bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classic Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis Are Not Major Determinants for Location of Extracranial or Intracranial Cerebral Atherosclerosis
Authors: Kim Young Dae , Choi Hye Yeon , Jung Yo Han , Nam Chung Mo , Yang Jae Hoon , Cho Han Jin , Nam Hyo Suk , Lee Kyung-Yul , Heo Ji Hoe
Published: January 2009

Background: The prevalence of extracranial (EC) and intracranial (IC) atherosclerosis varies among races. Although several studies have sought to identify specific vascular risk factors that are associated with EC or IC atherosclerosis, the exact relationships are uncertain. This study aimed to determine if there are any specific risk factors for EC or IC atherosclerosis. Methods: For this study, we considered 3,349 consecutive patients who had been entered into a stroke registry between January 1999 and June 2007. After the exclusion of patients who had not undergone angiography, patients with cardiac sources of embolism or other causes of stroke, and non-Koreans, we had a total of 2,169 patients of single ethnicity with an angiographic analysis. Patients with atherosclerosis in both the IC and EC arteries (856 patients) were excluded. Finally, we identified 1,313 patients who had EC atherosclerosis (EC group, n = 256), IC atherosclerosis (IC group, n = 566) or normal angiographic findings (no-lesion group, n = 488). The frequency of risk factors and the demographic parameters were compared among these groups. Results: When compared to the normal group, the IC group was associated with older age and hypertension, and the EC group was associated with older age, higher initial blood sugar and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. However, in a direct comparison between the IC and EC groups, we did not observe any significant risk factors or variables except for a higher frequency of males and higher total cholesterol levels in the EC group. Conclusions: Vascular risk factors may not be major determinants of location for atherosclerosis in the EC or IC arteries.
Prevalence of Essential Tremor in a Multiethnic, Community-Based Study in Northern Manhattan, New York, N.Y.
Authors: Louis Elan D. , Thawani Sujata P. , Andrews Howard F.
Published: January 2009

Background: Our aims were to: (1) estimate the prevalence of essential tremor (ET) in a community-based study in northern Manhattan, New York, N.Y., USA; (2) compare prevalence across ethnic groups, and (3) provide prevalence estimates for the oldest old. Methods: This study did not rely on a screening questionnaire. Rather, as part of an in-person neurological evaluation, each participant produced several handwriting samples, from which ET diagnoses were assigned. Results: There were 1,965 participants (76.7 ± 6.9 years, range = 66–102 years); 108 had ET [5.5%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 4.5–6.5%]. Odds of ET were robustly associated with Hispanic ethnicity versus white ethnicity [odds ratio (OR) = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.03–4.64, p = 0.04] and age (OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.03–1.26, p = 0.01), i.e. with every 1 year advance in age, the odds of ET increased by 14%. Prevalence reached 21.7% among the oldest old (age ≥95 years). Conclusions: This study reports a significant ethnic difference in the prevalence of ET. The prevalence of ET was high overall (5.5%) and rose markedly with age so that in the oldest old, more than 1 in 5 individuals had this disease.
Clinical Benefit of New Targeted Agents in Phase I Trials in Patients with Advanced Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Arkenau Hendrik-Tobias , Brunetto Andre T. , Barriuso Jorge , Olmos David , Eaton David , de Bono Johann , Judson Ian , Kaye Stan
Published: January 2009

Background: Standard treatment for patients with advanced colorectal cancer (ACRC) includes fluoropyrimidines in combination with oxaliplatin or irinotecan. The addition of targeted agents such as bevacizumab and cetuximab to these chemotherapy backbones further improved outcome with survival rates. However, even after intensive treatment, most tumors will subsequently progress and some patients are offered experimental phase I therapies. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the outcome for 78 ACRC patients treated consecutively within 23 phase I trials at the Royal Marsden Hospital (RMH) between January 2004 and January 2008. Results: The median age was 62 years (range 26–78). After a median follow-up time of 21.4 weeks (range 1.7–115.6) the median progression-free survival and overall survival (OS) were 8.6 weeks (95% CI: 6.4–10.7) and 29.1 weeks (95% CI: 15.7–42.5), respectively. 28.8 and 8.2% of the patients were assessed as having stable disease (SD) at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Patients with SD had an OS of 40.6 weeks (95% CI: 32.9–48.2) compared to 17.4 weeks (95% CI: 14.0–20.8, p = 0.017) for patients with progressive disease. Conclusion: A limited number of patients with ACRC who failed conventional treatments can derive clinical benefit by participating in phase I cancer trials, and the use of the RMH prognostic score can help to identify these patients.
Trends in Kidney Donation among Kidney Stone Formers: A Survey of US Transplant Centers
Authors: Ennis Jennifer , Kocherginsky Masha , Schumm L. Philip , Worcester Elaine , Coe Fredric L. , Josephson Michelle A.
Published: January 2009

Background: Living kidney donation is on the rise and acceptance criteria for potential donors are evolving to include more ‘complex’ patients such as kidney stone formers. Transplant centers are faced with sparse data on patient outcomes when evaluating potential donors who are stone formers; thus, attitudes and practice can differ greatly between centers. Methods: We conducted a survey of United States kidney transplant programs to assess current trends in the approach to dealing with stone formers who are evaluated for kidney donation. Results: Based on the survey results, there appears to be a tendency toward increased acceptance of donors with a history of kidney stones. 77% of responding centers allowed stone formers to donate. Nearly 40% of centers reported that their attitude towards accepting donors with kidney stones has changed over the last 5–10 years. Among these, the overwhelming majority reported that they were more likely to accept these donors. Conclusions: Such trends are likely based on organ need, as published patient outcomes and evidence-based guidelines are lacking for this unique group of patients. We propose the need for a study to formally evaluate the outcome of stone formers who donate a kidney in order to systematically examine whether appropriately selected stone formers can safely donate.
Safety of Diagnostic Bronchoscopy in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Diaz-Guzman Enrique , Vadi Sonali , Minai Omar A. , Gildea Thomas R. , Mehta Atul C.
Published: January 2009

Background: Patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) are considered to be at risk for complications associated with flexible bronchoscopy (FB). Although previous reports suggest that transbronchial biopsies increase the risk for hemorrhage in this population, data are limited to survey analyses and isolated reports. Objectives: It was the aim of this study to describe our experience with FB and to determine if bronchoscopic procedures are associated with adverse events in this population. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of patients with diagnosis of PH who underwent FB at the Cleveland Clinic between 2002 and 2005. Patients without PH who underwent FB by the same pulmonary physician were used as controls. Results: A total of 90 patients, PH (n = 45) versus controls (n = 45), were included. The mean systolic pulmonary artery pressure in patients with PH was 58 ± 7 mm Hg. Patients with PH had higher oxygen requirements at baseline (FiO2 0.42 vs. 0.3%; p = 0.01). The total number of procedures was similar between the groups (95 vs. 102). Procedures performed were bronchoalveolar lavage (21 vs. 13), transbronchial biopsies (24 vs. 32) and transbronchial needle aspiration (7 vs. 6). There were no hemodynamic complications or episodes of respiratory failure associated with the procedures. None of the patients had significant hemorrhage and only 2 developed mild bleeding which resolved spontaneously. Similarly, none required hospitalization or transfer to an intensive care unit. Conclusions: FB can be performed safely in patients with mild to moderate PH. Transbronchial biopsies are not associated with worsening hypoxemia or an increased risk of hemorrhage. Prospective studies with hemodynamic measurements are necessary to confirm these findings.
Measuring FEV6 for Detecting Early Airway Obstruction in the Primary Care Setting
Authors: Kaufmann M. , Hartl S. , Geyer K. , Breyer M.K. , Burghuber O.C.
Published: January 2009

Background: The prevalence of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is high (∼7.4–18%) in the general population, but less than half are diagnosed. Several studies have shown FEV6 as a good surrogate marker for forced vital capacity (FVC) to detect airflow limitations. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate if it is possible to simplify and improve the diagnosis of so far undiagnosed asthma or COPD in the primary care setting by measuring FEV6 with a new simple screening device (PiKo-6). Methods: 507 patients were recruited from three general practices from May to June 2005. Patients with any known pulmonary disease were excluded by questionnaire. FEV1, FEV6 and FEV1/FEV6 were determined using a PiKo-6 device. Patients with an FEV1/FEV6 <80% (PiKo positive) were invited to a standardized pulmonary function test to confirm or rule out airflow limitation. Results: 401 (79.1%) patients showed FEV1/FEV6 ≥80% (PiKo negative), and 106 (20.9%) patients were PiKo positive. Of the 106 PiKo-positive patients, 74 patients (14.7% of total) agreed to further studies and 18 patients (3.6%) of them suffered from COPD [COPD 0: 5 (1.0%); COPD I: 9 (1.8%); COPD II: 4 (0.8%), and none with COPD III or IV] and 14 patients (2.8%) suffered from bronchial hyperresponsiveness or asthma. In 42 patients (8.3%), the pulmonary function test was normal. Conclusions: Measurement of FEV6 using a new simple screening device (PiKo-6) may improve the detection rate of undiagnosed airflow limitation in the primary care setting. However, patients should be carefully selected.
Long-Term Intracerebroventricular Infusion of Insulin, but Not Glucose, Modulates Body Weight and Hepatic Insulin Sensitivity by Modifying the Hypothalamic Insulin Signaling Pathway in Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Park Sunmin , Hong Sang Mee , Ahn Il Sung
Published: January 2009

Background/Aims: It has been reported that the short-term injection of insulin and glucose into the hypothalamus modulates body weight and hepatic glucose production in non-diabetic rats. However, the effect of hypothalamic insulin and glucose on peripheral glucose metabolism in diabetic animals remains uncertain. We investigated how intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of insulin and glucose modified body weight and peripheral glucose homeostasis in 90% pancreatectomized rats that exhibited symptoms of mild and non-obese type 2 diabetes. Methods: The diabetic rats that were fed a high fat diet were ICV administered with either insulin (0.3 U/day), glucose (10 mg/day), insulin plus glucose (insulin+glucose), or artificial cerebrospinal fluid (control) by means of osmotic pumps for 4 weeks. Results: Central insulin and insulin+glucose reduced body weight with a slight decrease of food intake compared to the control and glucose groups in diabetic rats. In addition, during euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp, ICV infusion of insulin and insulin+glucose increased glucose infusion rates and decreased hepatic glucose production compared to the control and glucose groups. The improvement of insulin sensitivity was associated with the activation of both hypothalamic and hepatic insulin signaling cascades. Central glucose did not affect hypothalamic insulin action in diabetic rats. Conclusion: Long-term central infusion of insulin enhanced energy metabolism and hepatic glucose homeostasis in type 2 diabetic rats partly via potentiating hypothalamic insulin signaling. However, central glucose infusion did not modulate the central and peripheral metabolism.
Targeted Deletion of Nuclear Factor κB p50 Enhances Cardiac Remodeling and Dysfunction Following Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Timmers Leo , van Keulen J. Karlijn , Hoefer Imo E. , Meijs Matthijs F.L. , van Middelaar Ben , den Ouden Krista , van Echteld Cees J.A. , Pasterkamp Gerard , de Kleijn Dominique P.V.
Published: January 2009

Myocardial infarction is commonly complicated by left ventricular remodeling, a process that leads to cardiac dilatation, congestive heart failure and death. The innate immune system plays a pivotal role in the remodeling process via nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation. The NF-κB transcription factor family includes several subunits (p50, p52, p65, c-Rel, and Rel B) that respond to myocardial ischemia. The function of NF-κB p50, however, is controversial in this process. To clarify the role of NF-κB p50 in postinfarct left ventricular remodeling, myocardial infarction was induced in wild-type 129Bl6 mice and NF-κB p50-deficient mice. Without affecting infarct size, deletion of NF-κB p50 markedly increased the extent of expansive remodeling (end-diastolic volume: 176±13 μL versus 107±11 μL;
P
=0.003) and aggravated systolic dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction: 16.1±1.5% versus 24.7±3.7%;
P
=0.029) in a 28-day time period. Interstitial fibrosis and hypertrophy in the noninfarcted myocardium was increased in NF-κB p50 knockout mice. In the infarct area, a lower collagen density was observed, which was accompanied by an increased number of macrophages, higher gelatinase activity and increased inflammatory cytokine expression. In conclusion, targeted deletion of NF-κB p50 results in enhanced cardiac remodeling and functional deterioration following myocardial infarction by increasing matrix remodeling and inflammation.
Multiple Homicide as a Function of Prisonization and Concurrent Instrumental Violence: Testing an Interactive Model—A Research Note
Authors: DeLisi Matt , Walters Glenn D.
Published: January 2009

Prisonization (as measured by number of prior incarcerations) and concurrent instrumental offending (as measured by contemporaneous kidnapping, rape, robbery, and burglary offenses) were found to interact in 160 multiple-homicide offenders and 494 single-homicide offenders. Controlling for age, gender, race, criminal history, prior incarcerations, and instrumental contemporaneous offending, the interaction between prior incarceration and instrumental contemporaneous offending was a significant predictor of multiple homicide. These results constitute exploratory evidence suggesting that multiple homicide has a greater likelihood of occurring when prisonization and concurrent instrumental criminal offending are present. The theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Many Approaches, but Few Arrivals
Authors: Turner Stephen
Published: January 2009

Robert Merton's essays on theories of the middle range and his essays on functional explanation and the structural approach are among the most influential in the history of sociology. But their import is a puzzle. He explicitly allied himself with some of the most extreme scientistic formalists and contributed to and endorsed the Columbia model of theory construction. But Merton never responded to criticisms by Ernest Nagel of his arguments or acknowledged the rivalry between Lazarsfeld and Herbert Simon, rarely cited the philosophical and methodological literature, and responded to critics with ambiguous concessions, leaving the Mertonian legacy profoundly ambiguous.
Pharmacokinetics of Valsartan in Pediatric and Adolescent Subjects With Hypertension
Authors: Blumer Jeffrey , Batisky Donald L. , Wells Thomas , Shi Victor , Solar‐Yohay Susan , Sunkara Gangadhar
Published: January 2009

An open‐label, single‐dose study is conducted in 26 children with hypertension to characterize the pharmacokinetics of valsartan. Valsartan is administered as an oral suspension (dose of 2 mg/kg), with the maximum single dose being 80 mg. Subjects are stratified into 4 age categories: group 1, 1 to less than 4 years; group 2, 4 to less than 6 years; group 3, 6 to less than 12 years; group 4, 12 to 16 years. Blood samples are collected before and for 24 hours after dosing to quantitate valsartan. Because the body weight of most children in groups 3 and 4 exceeds 40 kg and they received a dose of less than 2 mg/kg, major pharmacokinetic parameters are dose normalized for comparison across the age groups. Dose‐normalized maximum plasma concentration and area under the plasma‐concentration curve and body weight—normalized apparent oral clearance are comparable for the 4 groups (P ≥ .1011). Body weight—normalized apparent oral clearance ranges from 0.061 to 0.089 L/h/kg.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Mycophenolic Acid and Its 2 Glucuronidated Metabolites in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Sam Wai‐Johnn , Akhlaghi Fatemeh , Rosenbaum Sara E.
Published: January 2009

The population pharmacokinetics of mycophenolic acid (MPA) and its phenolic (MPAG) and acyl (AcMPAG) glucuronide metabolites were studied in patients taking enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium. Plasma samples (n = 232), obtained from 18 renal transplant recipients, were analyzed for MPA, MPAG, and AcMPAG using a validated high‐performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet assay. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using NONMEM. The pharmacokinetics of MPA were best described by a 2‐compartment model, with MPAG and AcMPAG produced from the central compartment and with enterohepatic recirculation of MPA via these 2 metabolites. Population mean estimates for MPA were apparent clearance (CL/F) of 10.6 L/h (interindividual variability [IIV] = 21.4%) and apparent volume of distribution of the central compartment (V1/F) of 25.9 L (IIV = 87.8%). Mean elimination rate constants of MPAG and AcMPAG were 0.323 h−1 (IIV = 29.1%) and 0.206 h−1 (IIV = 48.8%), respectively. The mean fraction of MPA converted to MPAG and AcMPAG, normalized by their volumes of distribution (FMAG and FMAC, respectively), was also estimated. The elimination rate constant for MPAG and FMAC was influenced by glomerular filtration rate in patients with renal impairment. The visual predictive check, based on 100 simulated data sets each for MPA, MPAG, and AcMPAG, found that the final pharmacokinetic model adequately predicts the observed concentrations of all 3 species.
Voluntary Childlessness in Marriage and Family Textbooks, 1950—2000
Authors: Chancey Laurie , Dumais Susan A.
Published: January 2009

We perform a content analysis of twenty marriage and family textbooks published between 1950 and 2000 to study how the voluntarily childless are presented in undergraduate courses. Throughout the time period studied, independence, pursuit of a career, and romance were prominent themes in the representation of voluntary childlessness. Other themes emerged specific to each decade—the 1950s portrayed parenthood as a challenge, while the 1990s concentrated on alleviating negative stereotypes of the voluntarily childless.
Changing Hormone Levels during the Menstrual Cycle Affect Knee Laxity and Stiffness in Healthy Female Subjects
Authors: Park Sang-Kyoon , Stefanyshyn Darren J. , Loitz-Ramage Barbara , Hart David A. , Ronsky Janet L.
Published: January 2009

Background

Whether knee laxity varies throughout the menstrual cycle remains controversial. As increased laxity may be a risk factor for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, further research is warranted.

Hypothesis

Variation in estradiol and progesterone levels during the menstrual cycle influences knee laxity and stiffness.

Study Design

Case control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

The serum estradiol and progesterone levels of 26 healthy female subjects were recorded in the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. Knee joint laxity was assessed using a standard knee arthrometer at the same intervals. Stiffness changes in the load-displacement curve were determined. Hormone levels across the cycle were compared between responders and nonresponders, defined by whether changes in knee laxity at 89 N occurred.

Results

Greater laxity at 89 N during ovulation was observed (ovulation: 5.13 ± 1.70 mm vs luteal: 4.55 ± 1.54 mm, P =. 012). In knee laxity testing at manual maximum load, greater laxity was noticed during ovulation (14.43 ± 2.60 mm, P =. 018), as compared with the follicular phase (13.35 ± 2.53 mm). A reduction in knee stiffness of approximately 17% (ovulation: 12.48 ± 5.46 N/mm vs luteal: 15.02 ± 7.71 N/mm, P =. 042) during ovulation was observed. However, there were no differences in hormone levels between responders and nonresponders at 89 N.

Conclusion

Female hormone levels are related to increased knee joint laxity and decreased stiffness at ovulation. To understand subject variations in knee joint laxity during the menstrual cycle in female athletes, further investigation is warranted.
One Foot on the Dock and One Foot in the Canoe
Authors: Barg Rose
Published: January 2009

This art-informed, reflexive, autobiographical inquiry explores the struggles of a feminist academic committed to transformative adult education and subsistence learning, while engaged in program planning for fire service education. The author chronicles how her approach within the applied practice in a traditional, male dominant workplace setting is shaped by her rural Canadian heritage, the move from an isolated rural location to an urban setting followed by academic research in motherwork as a site of adult learning. By looking for day-to-day opportunities to promote equity, increased tolerance and mutual respect, the author describes the struggles and joys of her lived experience within a workplace where oppression is prominent, while seeking to contribute to the transformation of societal structures that create barriers, exclude or oppress.
Cult TV, Hip Hop, Shape-Shifters, and Vampire Slayers
Authors: Wright Robin Redmon , Sandlin Jennifer A.
Published: January 2009

In this article, we examine adult education literature as it relates to all aspects of popular culture. After an extensive literature review we found that, increasingly, adult educators are investigating popular culture's connection with adult education and learning; however, we argue that much more work needs to be done in this area, specifically with regard to what and how adults are learning from popular culture. The research revealed that the adult education literature in this broad area has focused on six areas of research and practice: (a) representations of adult learning and adult development in popular media, (b) self-reflexive practices of adult educators who consume popular culture, (c) effective classroom practices involving the popular, (d) analyses of popular culture products and processes as adult education curriculum, (e) the impact of adults' learning from popular culture, and (f) community-based “popular” culture as resistance. This article explores the literature in each of these six areas of inquiry.
The Role of Learning in the Development of Expertise in Museum Docents
Authors: Grenier Robin S.
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this qualitative study was to determine how docents developed expertise within the context of their work with history museums. Twelve expert docents from four history-themed museums were interviewed to discover how expertise is developed by volunteers working in nonformal settings. Interpretation of the data revealed two primary means of preparation. First, formal training and continuing education were initially used by docents for learning their craft; and second, informal and incidental learning were critical to expertise development in museum docents. Based on the findings that emerged, implications for museum education and volunteer practice and the wider field of adult education are presented.
An Antiracist Feminist Analysis for the Study of Learning in Social Struggle
Authors: Gouin Rachel
Published: January 2009

This article outlines, critiques, and revises Griff Foley's analytical framework for the study of informal learning in social action. This reformulation is prompted by the author's own research on young women's experiences and learning in social struggle, and by the need to take into account the interdependence of systems of domination underlying their actions. She draws on anticapitalist and antiracist feminist theory to integrate an analysis of White supremacy and patriarchy within a Marxist political economy. This article helps to reconceptualize the study of learning in social movements so that it may contend with the complexity of society, social struggles, and the contexts in which learning takes place.
Factors Mediating the Relationship Between Social Skills and Academic Grades in a Sample of Students Diagnosed With Learning Disabilities or Emotional Disturbance
Authors: Milsom Amy , Glanville Jennifer L.
Published: January 2009

Research has found students with high incidence disabilities to be at risk for academic difficulties and school dropout. Using data from the NLTS-2 database, relationships between social skills and grades were examined for students who were diagnosed with learning disabilities or emotional disturbance. Results revealed significant direct and indirect effects of social skills on grades. The specific roles of different types of social skills are examined in relation to grades as are the mediating roles of relationships with students and teachers as well as school enjoyment. Implications for research and practice are presented.
Schizencephaly in Infants With Thrombophilia
Authors: Goez Helly , Zelnik Nathanel
Published: January 2009

Schizencephaly is an uncommon congenital malformation of neuronal migration characterized by a gray matter—lined cleft extending from the pial surface to the ependymal surface of the lateral ventricles. Its etiology is heterogeneous and consists of hereditary factors or destructive processes that occur during the second trimester of pregnancy. We report 2 cases with schizencephaly and thrombophilia caused by mutations of the methyltetrahydrofolate reductase and the factor V Leiden genes. Their clinical presentations included motor deficits and mild cognitive deficits.
Clinical Characteristics of Benign Convulsions With Rotavirus Gastroenteritis
Authors: Motoyama Masashi , Ichiyama Takashi , Matsushige Takeshi , Kajimoto Madoka , Shiraishi Masahiro , Furukawa Susumu
Published: January 2009

Convulsions sometimes occur in infants and toddlers with mild gastroenteritis. We retrospectively investigated the hospital records of 106 patients admitted to our hospital who had rotavirus gastroenteritis from February 2002 to April 2008. There were 23 patients with convulsions, including 13 with benign convulsions, 9 with febrile seizures, and 1 with epilepsy. Gastroenteritis in patients with benign convulsions was mild from the viewpoint of body weights and serum creatinine concentrations on admission and the duration of admission. Serum Na+and Cl-concentrations of patients with benign convulsions were relatively lower than those without convulsions on admission (P = .006, and P = .008, respectively). Twelve of thirteen patients had no other seizures after oral administration of 5 mg/kg of carbamazepine, while 1 patient had 1 convulsion 15 minutes after the therapy. In conclusion, carbamazepine therapy was effective for benign convulsions with rotavirus gastroenteritis.
Paroxysmal Tonic Upgaze Presenting as a Clinical Isolated Syndrome
Authors: Şenbil Nesrin , Yılmaz Deniz , Yüksel Deniz , Gürer Yavuz
Published: January 2009

We report a 3.5-year-old boy with sudden onset of episodic upward deviation of the eyes that led to diagnosis of paroxysmal tonic upgaze. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging showed right-hand side dominant bilateral hyperintense lesions in the mesencephalon and the thalamus on T2-weighted images. These lesions suggested a demyelinating pathology. Corticosteroid treatment was started. The episodes of upward eye deviation and the lesions on magnetic resonance imaging completely resolved after 3 days and 3 months, respectively. After 2 years of follow-up, he was symptom-free. Our patient with an isolated brain stem syndrome and no mental status changes was diagnosed as having a clinical isolated syndrome.
Evaluation of Neurological Complications in Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients: MRI Versus CT
Authors: Donmez Fuldem Yildirim , Guvenc Zeynep , Emiroglu Feride Kural , Coskun Mehmet , Haberal Mehmet
Published: January 2009

With the aim of guiding choice of the best imaging modality for specific clinical conditions, we retrospectively evaluated neuroradiological findings in pediatric liver transplant recipients with neurological complications. Computed tomography (CT) was used to examine 31 patients with acute neurological symptoms after liver transplantation, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used for 35 such patients. A total of 16 patients belonged to both groups. Headache was the most common symptom in patients with computed tomography; seizure was most common among patients with magnetic resonance imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging detected additional abnormalities in 5 patients presenting with seizures whose computed tomography results were normal or insufficient to explain the clinical picture. In conclusion, liver transplant recipients with seizure should undergo magnetic resonance imaging emergently when possible; omitting computed tomography. Choice of imaging modality should be directed by nature of symptoms and time interval between transplantation and symptom onset.
Paramyotonia Congenita in 22 Members of an Arab (Omani) Kindred
Authors: Koul Roshan , Alfutaisi Amna , Hira Manjusha
Published: January 2009

Paramyotonia congenita in 22 members of Arab (Omani) family is reported. Four generations were affected. All had early onset around 1 year of age, with myotonia and cold intolerance. Age of onset in the index case was at 3 months of age. Six members with the disease were examined and investigated. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the condition from this region. Childhood presentation and differential diagnosis is discussed.
Living With Changing Expectations for Women With High-Risk Pregnancies
Authors: MacDonald Cynthia A. , Jonas-Simpson Christine M.
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this research was to uncover the structure of the lived experience of living with changing expectations from the perspectives of women with high-risk pregnancies. The researchers' nursing theoretical perspective is the humanbecoming theory and the Parse research method was used. For the participants, living with changing expectations is foreboding disquietude arising with arduous restrictions, while envisioning the yearned-for with mitigating nurturing engagements. Findings enhance the theory of humanbecoming as well as enhance understanding of the experience of living with changing expectations. Recommendations for future research and practice are discussed.
Intentionality, Consciousness, and Creating Community
Authors: Malinski Violet M.
Published: January 2009

Intentionality is briefly explored from the perspective of seminal written works on therapeutic touch and recorded conversations with Martha E. Rogers. This overview hints at possible interrelationships among intentionality, consciousness, and creating community, along with conceptual ambiguities, which are explored in detail by Zahourek and Larkin in this column.
Transparency in Nursing Leadership
Authors: Milton Constance L.
Published: January 2009

The concept of transparency has been viewed as an essential leadership attribute or element in healthcare organizational structures and processes. While viewed as something that is desired and valued, there is a lack of nursing disciplinary literature that defines the concept and its possible meanings. This column provides a beginning definition of transparency from the humanbecoming nursing theoretical perspective and launches a discussion with potential ethical implications for leadership in nursing practice and education.
A Comparison of Two Nursing Theories in Practice
Authors: McCarthy Cindy T. , Aquino-Russell Catherine
Published: January 2009

This column illuminates nursing practice through two unique theoretical perspectives: Peplau's theory of interpersonal relations and Parse's theory of humanbecoming. Processes of each practice method will be explicated as each is related to a practice scenario. The key differences between Peplau's and Parse's practice methodologies are identified. Nursing is a unique, evolving, everchanging profession for which theory can be used as a guide for practice. This column demonstrates two of these unique theories. Whether through health promotion or quality of life from the person's perspective, theory provides meaning in nursing practice and in everyday life.
Traditional and Nontraditional Gender Roles and Work—Family Interface for Men and Women
Authors: Perrone Kristin M. , Wright Stephen L. , Jackson Z. Vance
Published: January 2009

In this article, we examine traditional and nontraditional gender roles and work—family interface for men and women. Recent empirical literature is reviewed and implications for career counselors are discussed. We discuss changing gender roles in career, marriage, and parenting and provide strategies for helping clients to cope with work—family role strain and to find a satisfying balance between life roles. Directions for future research are also discussed.
A Content Analysis of Acculturation Research in the Career Development Literature
Authors: Miller Matthew J. , Kerlow-Myers Andrew E.
Published: January 2009

The purpose of the present study was to highlight the importance of acculturation as an explanatory variable in career development and to provide an empirical review of acculturation research in the career development literature. Acculturation is a cultural variable that has been linked to a number of important career development outcomes for racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse populations. A review of 26 empirical acculturation studies in the career development literature revealed a number of positive trends such as an increase in the attention to acculturation within the literature and an improvement in the way the construct is conceptualized. However, results also indicated a number of limitations such as a disparity between conceptualization and operationalization of the construct and, at times, a lack of clear conceptual definitions of acculturation in the literature. Recommendations for research and practice are presented.
Being in Nature
Authors: Berger Ronen
Published: January 2009

This article describes a creative framework in which nature is incorporated in therapy with older adults. Using an example from practice, it illustrates how the integration of concepts from the narrative approach and the innovative nature therapy framework can help older people expand their perspectives, connect with strength, and expand their coping strategies, while gaining a wider sense of acceptance and completion in life.
The Accountability Movement
Authors: Carman Joanne G.
Published: January 2009

In the field of program evaluation, one of the first things evaluators often do to evaluate a program is to identify the “theory of change” behind the program and create a “logic model” to articulate why the program is expected to work. This allows evaluators to make an assessment about the expectations and feasibility of the program, as well as assess program implementation. In this article, the author uses the theory of change approach to evaluation and creates a logic model for the “accountability movement” or the tendency for funders to require nonprofit organizations to conduct evaluations and report performance information. The model is tested with empirical data, finding that the theory behind the accountability movement suffers from four design and implementation flaws well-known to evaluators: (a) unstandardized treatment, (b) confusion among targets, (c) coverage, and (d) intensity issues. The article concludes by offering insights and recommendations for improving accountability practices.
`Leading a universal life': the systematic relevance of Hegel's social philosophy
Authors: Quante Michael , Schweikard David P.
Published: January 2009

This article starts from two observations. The first is that some of the most prominent debates in social and political philosophy over the last few decades have been deeply obscured by the confusion of ontological/methodological and normative questions. And the second is that the renewed interest in Hegel's social philosophy has not yet yielded anything like a widely shared view as to whether it should be banned as a totalitarian or reappraised as a liberal account. The aim of this article is first to specify systematically the ontological/methodological and normative dimensions of social philosophy by giving precise definitions of core concepts and paramount positions. Secondly, it is argued that Hegel's social philosophy can be characterized as combining what is called vertical holism with liberal communitarianism. This, thirdly, sheds new light both on the nature of fundamental questions in social philosophy and on the systematic relevance of Hegel's social philosophy.
Development of LuGre Friction Model for Large-Scale Magneto—Rheological Fluid Dampers
Authors: Yang F. , Sedaghati R. , Esmailzadeh E.
Published: January 2009

This paper presents a new hysteresis model, based on the LuGre friction model, to analyze the dynamic behavior of large-scale Magneto-rheological (MR) damper (MR-9000 type MR-damper) accurately and efficiently. The gradient based optimization technique and the least square method will be utilized to identify the modal parameters. The dynamic behavior of MR-damper under different types of excitation and input currents has been predicted using the proposed model. The results were compared with those predicted using the modified Bouc—Wen model to verify the validity of the proposed model. Furthermore, based on the proposed LuGre friction model, an effective inverse MR-damper model has been presented, which can be readily used in the design of the semi-active vibration suppression devices.
Advancing the Study of Violence Against Women
Authors: Jordan Carol E.
Published: January 2009

Decades of research produced by multiple disciplines has documented withering rates of violence against women in the United States and around the globe. To further an understanding of gendered violence, a field of research has developed, but recent critiques have highlighted weaknesses that inhibit a full scientific exploration of these crimes and their impacts. This review extends beyond prior reviews to explore the field's unique challenges, its community of scientists, and the state of its written knowledge. The review argues for moving beyond “research agendas” and proposes creation of a transdisciplinary science for the field of study of violence against women.
Teaching Professional Writing To American Students in a Study Abroad Program
Authors: Andrews Deborah C. , Henze Brent
Published: January 2009

Studying abroad enhances the intercultural competencies of American students, but that enhancement strategy may be seen as an obstacle to those in business and technical fields who follow a tight curriculum and work to cover expenses. To meet their needs, U.S. professional communication faculty are designing short courses that can be delivered abroad during between-term periods and that foster an understanding of the situations and genres of the field within a context of cultural dislocation. Based on the courses described in this article, the best approach is to settle students in one location rather than touring; keep student numbers low by an entrepreneurial approach to keeping costs low; encourage students to live as the locals do, in apartments rather than hotels; explicitly plan appropriate access to technology; use class time to provide structure and reflection, but allow free time for collateral learning; and make sure the course grows local roots.
A High-Throughput Ligand Competition Binding Assay for the Androgen Receptor and Other Nuclear Receptors
Authors: Féau Clémentine , Arnold Leggy A. , Kosinski Aaron , Guy R. Kiplin
Published: January 2009

Standardized, automated ligand-binding assays facilitate evaluation of endocrine activities of environmental chemicals and identification of antagonists of nuclear receptor ligands. Many current assays rely on fluorescently labeled ligands that are significantly different from the native ligands. The authors describe a radiolabeled ligand competition scintillation proximity assay (SPA) for the androgen receptor (AR) using Ni-coated 384-well FlashPlates® and liganded AR-LBD protein. This highly reproducible, low-cost assay is well suited for automated high-throughput screening. In addition, the authors show that this assay can be adapted to measure ligand affinities for other nuclear receptors (peroxisome proliferation-activated receptor γ, thyroid receptors α and β). ( Journal of Biomolecular Screening 2009:43-48)
Development and Validation of a Higher Throughput Screening Approach to Genotoxicity Testing Using the GADD45a-GFP GreenScreen HC Assay
Authors: Knight Andrew W. , Birrell Louise , Walmsley Richard M.
Published: January 2009

There is a pressing need to develop rapid yet accurate screening assays for the identification of genotoxic liability and for early hazard assessment in drug discovery. The GADD45a-GFP human cell-based genotoxicity assay (GreenScreen HC) has been reformatted to test 12 compounds per 96-well microplate in a higher throughput, automated screening mode and the protocol applied to the analysis of 1266 diverse, pharmacologically active compounds. Testing from a fixed starting concentration of 100 µM and over 3 serial dilutions, the hit rates for genotoxicity (7.3%) and cytotoxicity (33%) endpoints of the assay have been determined in a much wider chemical space than previously reported. The degree of interference from color, autofluorescence, and low solubility has also been assessed. The assay results have been compared to an in silico approach to genotoxicity assessment using Derek for Windows software. Where carcinogenicity data were available, GreenScreen HC demonstrated a higher specificity than in silico methods while identifying genotoxic species that were not highlighted for genotoxic liability in structure-activity relationship software. Higher throughput screening from a fixed, low concentration reduces sensitivity to less potent genotoxins, but the maintenance of the previously reported high specificity is essential in early hazard assessment where misclassification can lead to the needless rejection of potentially useful compounds in drug development. ( Journal of Biomolecular Screening 2009:16-30)
Cerebral Air Embolism Recognized by Cerebral Oximetry
Authors: Fischer Gregory W. , Stone Marc E.
Published: January 2009

Absolute cerebral oximetry is useful in clinical settings to identify “catastrophic events” that may occur during the course of surgeries that would otherwise have gone unrecognized. This study reports a case in which cerebral desaturation occurred after commencing cardiopulmonary bypass. Consequently, the source of air entrainment was discovered and therapeutic measures implemented.
General Education Teachers’ Perceptions of Behavior Management and Intervention Strategies
Authors: Dutton Tillery Amy , Varjas Kris , Meyers Joel , Collins Amanda Smith
Published: January 2009

In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with kindergarten and first-grade general education teachers to determine their perceptions of student behavior. This study describes the teachers’ perspectives of and approaches to behavior management and intervention strategies (e.g., use of praise, rewards, implementation of classroom management, and knowledge about PBIS and RTI). A unique contribution of this study is the in-depth data that provide specific descriptions of the teachers’ perceptions. Findings indicated that the teachers in this study tended to concentrate more on individual student behavior when describing behavior management strategies than on group or schoolwide behavior. In addition, the teachers were unfamiliar with RTI and PBIS despite training occurring in the system on these initiatives during the study. Lastly, the teachers perceived themselves as strong influences on student behavior development and described the use of positive strategies. Meeting teachers’ training needs for implementation of schoolwide PBIS and topics for future research are discussed.
Siblings of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Orsmond Gael I. , Kuo Hsin-Yu , Seltzer Marsha Mailick
Published: January 2009

We investigated sibling relationships and wellbeing in adolescents and adults with a sibling with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Adolescents engaged in more shared activities than did adults. Adolescents reported greater social support, greater use of emotion-focused coping strategies, and less use of problem-focused coping than adults. In adulthood, females with a sister with ASD reported the most positive affect in the sibling relationship and men with a sister with ASD the least. Adolescents engaged in more shared activities and reported more positive affect in their sibling relationship when their sibling with ASD had fewer behavior problems; greater use of problem-focused coping buffered the negative effects of behavior problems on sibling engagement. For adults, more shared activities were observed when the sibling with ASD was younger in age and had fewer behavior problems; greater positive affect in sibling relationships was predicted by greater parental support.
Selective attrition in Russian-English bilingual children: Preservation of grammatical aspect
Authors: Bar-Shalom Eva G. , Zaretsky Elena
Published: January 2009

Loss of language-specific morphosyntactic structures, as well as the lexicon, is a hallmark of a `heritage language.' Specific to Russian, previous research suggested the lexicalization of grammatical aspect. This study investigated early stages of attrition in bilingual children with Russian as L1, using the narrative retelling paradigm. Narratives of 15 Russian-English bilingual subjects, between the ages of 4;0 and 10;11, were examined for signs of possible grammatical aspect restructuring as well as language-specific case and agreement errors. Fifteen monolingual Russian-speaking children within the same age range were tested in Moscow using the same methodology. Our results show only a few aspectual errors contextually, but none in morphological devices, among bilingual children. However, we found numerous lexical errors, as well as errors in the domain of morphosyntax. We conclude that L1 attrition takes place selectively with grammatical aspect spared in the initial process. An inverse correlation was found between the number of produced errors and the length of uninterrupted L1. Our results also suggest that consistent use of Russian at home and in extra-curricular activities, in addition to the length of uninterrupted L1, slows down the attrition of one's native language, especially in the presence of the dominant L2 language.
The role of emotions in L1 attrition: The case of Korean-English late bilinguals in New Zealand
Authors: Sun Hee Ok Kim  , Starks Donna
Published: January 2009

This article explores the role of emotions in L1 attrition and L2 acquisition in a group of 30 Korean-English L1-dominant late bilinguals in New Zealand. The relationship between L1/L2 proficiency measures and emotion-related language choice (ERLC) is investigated using three measurement tools: a story-retelling task, a questionnaire, and a follow-up interview. The findings point to a shift from L1 to L2 and show this to be related to an increase in L2 fluency and a decrease in L1 accuracy. The findings also show an overall preference for ERLC to be in L1 rather than L2 and point to a strong relationship between ERLC and proficiency. Two other findings emerge from the data. Scores for ERLC relating to anger show different patterns, as well as those which express light emotional load. Follow-up interviews help explain these differences and add to our understanding of why the literature on ERLC among late bilinguals often appears contradictory.