bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacogenomics in Early-Phase Oncology Clinical Trials: Is There a Sweet Spot in Phase II?
Authors: O'Donnell Peter H. , Stadler Walter M.
Published: March 2012

Many clinical trials of oncology drugs now include at least a consideration of pharmacogenomics, the study of germline or acquired genetic factors governing a drug's response and toxicity. Besides the potential benefit to patients from the consideration of personalized pharmacogenomic information when making treatment decisions, the incentive is clear for oncology drug developers to incorporate pharmacogenomic factors in the drug development process, because pharmacogenomic biomarkers may allow predictive characterization of subpopulations within a disease that may particularly respond or may allow preidentification of patients at highest risk for adverse events. There is, however, a lack of agreement in actual practice about at what point in the oncology clinical drug development process pharmacogenomic studies should be incorporated. In this article, we examine the recent growth of pharmacogenomics in oncology clinical trials, especially in early-phase studies, and examine several critical questions facing the incorporation of pharmacogenomics in early oncologic drug development. We show that phase II clinical trials, in particular, have a favorable track record for showing positive pharmacogenomic signals, worthy of additional follow-up and validation, and that the phase II setting holds significant promise for potentially accelerating and informing future phase III trials. We conclude that phase II trials offer an ideal “sweet spot” for routine incorporation of pharmacogenomic questions in oncology drug development. Clin Cancer Res; 18(10); 2809–16. ©2012 AACR.
Bayesian Processing of Context-Dependent Text
Authors: Alemi Farrokh , Torii Manabu , Atherton Martin J. , Pattie David C. , Cox Kenneth L.
Published: March 2012

Objective. This article aims to examine whether words listed in reasons for appointments could effectively predict laboratory-verified influenza cases in syndromic surveillance systems. Methods. Data were collected from the Armed Forces Health Longitudinal Technological Application medical record system. We used 2 algorithms to combine the impact of words within reasons for appointments: Dependent (DBSt) and Independent (IBSt) Bayesian System. We used receiver operating characteristic curves to compare the accuracy of these 2 methods of processing reasons for appointments against current and previous lists of diagnoses used in the Department of Defense’s syndromic surveillance system. Results. We examined 13,096 cases, where the results of influenza tests were available. Each reason for an appointment had an average of 3.5 words (standard deviation = 2.2 words). There was no difference in performance of the 2 algorithms. The area under the curve for IBSt was 0.58 and for DBSt was 0.56. The difference was not statistically significant (McNemar statistic = 0.0054; P = 0.07). Conclusions. These data suggest that reasons for appointments can improve the accuracy of lists of diagnoses in predicting laboratory-verified influenza cases. This study recommends further exploration of the DBSt algorithm and reasons for appointments in predicting likely influenza cases.
Hyaluronan Protects Bovine Articular Chondrocytes Against Cell Death Induced by Bupivacaine at Supraphysiologic Temperatures
Authors: Liu Sen , Zhang Qing-Song , Hester William , O’Brien Michael J. , Savoie Felix H. , You Zongbing
Published: March 2012

Background: Bupivacaine and supraphysiologic temperature can independently reduce cell viability of articular chondrocytes. In combination, these 2 deleterious factors could further impair cell viability.

Hypothesis: Hyaluronan may protect chondrocytes from death induced by bupivacaine at supraphysiologic temperatures.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Bovine articular chondrocytes were treated with hyaluronan at physiologic (37°C) and supraphysiologic temperatures (45°C and 50°C) for 1 hour and then exposed to bupivacaine for 1 hour at room temperature. Cell viability was assessed at 3 time points: immediately after treatment, 6 hours later, and 24 hours later using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. The effects of hyaluronan on the levels of sulfated glycosaminoglycan in the chondrocytes were determined using Alcian blue staining.

Results: (1) Bupivacaine alone did not induce noticeable chondrocyte death at 37°C; (2) bupivacaine and temperature synergistically increased chondrocyte death, that is, when the chondrocytes were conditioned to 45°C and 50°C, 0.25% and 0.5% bupivacaine increased the cell death rate by 131% to 383% in comparison with the phosphate-buffered saline control group; and (3) addition of hyaluronan reduced chondrocyte death rates to approximately 14% and 25% at 45°C and 50°C, respectively. Hyaluronan’s protective effects were still observed at 6 and 24 hours after bupivacaine treatment at 45°C. However, at 50°C, hyaluronan delayed but did not prevent the cell death caused by bupivacaine. One-hour treatment with hyaluronan significantly increased sulfated glycosaminoglycan levels in the chondrocytes.

Conclusion: Bupivacaine and supraphysiologic temperature synergistically increase chondrocyte death, and hyaluronan may protect articular chondrocytes from death caused by bupivacaine.

Clinical Relevance: This study provides a rationale to perform preclinical and clinical studies to evaluate whether intra-articular injection of a mixture of bupivacaine and hyaluronan after arthroscopic surgery may protect against bupivacaine’s chondrotoxicity.
Leg Dominance Is a Risk Factor for Noncontact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries in Female Recreational Skiers
Authors: Ruedl Gerhard , Webhofer Magdalena , Helle Kenneth , Strobl Martin , Schranz Alois , Fink Christian , Gatterer Hannes , Burtscher Martin
Published: March 2012

Background: In recreational alpine skiing, the knee joint accounts for about one third of all injuries in male and female skiers. However, female recreational skiers have twice the knee injury incidence of male skiers, and the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk is 3 times greater in female skiers.

Purpose: To evaluate whether leg dominance is a risk factor for noncontact ACL injuries in female recreational skiers.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: The relationships between leg dominance, side of knee injury, and gender were analyzed in 65 male and 128 female skiers suffering from a noncontact ACL rupture.

Results: Anterior cruciate ligament ruptures of the left knee occurred more frequently in female than in male recreational skiers (68% vs 48%, P = .006). For both genders, in 90%, the right leg was the preferred kicking leg. With regard to leg dominance, female skiers suffered more often from ACL ruptures of their nondominant leg than male skiers (63% vs 45%, P = .020). An adjusted odds ratio of 2.0 (95% confidence interval, 1.0-3.8) was calculated.

Conclusion: Female skiers showed a 2-fold higher risk of suffering from an ACL rupture on their nondominant leg. Therefore, leg dominance seems to be a risk factor for noncontact ACL injuries in female recreational skiers.
All-Inside Repair for a Root Tear of the Medial Meniscus Using a Suture Anchor
Authors: Jung Yu-Hun , Choi Nam-Hong , Oh Jong-Seok , Victoroff Brian N.
Published: March 2012

Background: There are no published articles reporting clinical outcomes after all-inside meniscal repair using a suture anchor for a medial meniscal root tear.

Purpose: To evaluate the subjective and objective outcomes after repair of medial meniscal root tears.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Thirteen patients with a root tear of the medial meniscus underwent all-inside repair using a suture anchor. Postoperative evaluation of meniscal status was performed using physical examination criteria, specifically joint line tenderness, McMurray test, and follow-up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Functional evaluations were performed using Tegner activity level and Lysholm knee score. Follow-up MRI scans were obtained 6 months postoperatively to evaluate healing of the root tear and measure extrusion of the midbody of the medial meniscus.

Results: The average follow-up was 30.8 months (range, 24-40 months). No patients had joint line tenderness or effusion. No patients demonstrated a positive McMurray test result postoperatively. The preoperative mean Tegner activity level was 1.9 (range, 1-6), and the mean Lysholm score was 69.1 (range, 53-91). At last follow-up, the mean Tegner activity level was 3.9 (range, 2-6), and the mean Lysholm score was 90.3 (range, 75-100). Improvements in both the Tegner activity level and Lysholm score were statistically significant ( P = .001 and P = .000, respectively). Follow-up MRI was performed in 10 patients. Five (50%) patients showed complete healing; 2 of these 5 patients showed complete healing with isointense signal of a normal meniscus, and 3 showed intermediate signal tissue at the previous tear site without any high signal cleft or ghost sign. Four (40%) patients showed partial healing, and 1 (10%) showed no healing. Mean extrusion of the midbody of the medial meniscus was 3.9 mm (range, 2.2-7.1 mm) preoperatively and 3.5 mm (range, 1.2-6.1 mm) postoperatively. Extrusion was not significantly decreased.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated symptomatic improvement after meniscal root repair using a suture anchor. However, follow-up MRI scans did not show complete healing of all repaired root tears.
Forefoot Running Improves Pain and Disability Associated With Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Diebal Angela R. , Gregory Robert , Alitz Curtis , Gerber J. Parry
Published: March 2012

Background: Anterior compartment pressures of the leg as well as kinematic and kinetic measures are significantly influenced by running technique. It is unknown whether adopting a forefoot strike technique will decrease the pain and disability associated with chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) in hindfoot strike runners.

Hypothesis: For people who have CECS, adopting a forefoot strike running technique will lead to decreased pain and disability associated with this condition.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Ten patients with CECS indicated for surgical release were prospectively enrolled. Resting and postrunning compartment pressures, kinematic and kinetic measurements, and self-report questionnaires were taken for all patients at baseline and after 6 weeks of a forefoot strike running intervention. Run distance and reported pain levels were recorded. A 15-point global rating of change (GROC) scale was used to measure perceived change after the intervention.

Results: After 6 weeks of forefoot run training, mean postrun anterior compartment pressures significantly decreased from 78.4 ± 32.0 mm Hg to 38.4 ± 11.5 mm Hg. Vertical ground-reaction force and impulse values were significantly reduced. Running distance significantly increased from 1.4 ± 0.6 km before intervention to 4.8 ± 0.5 km 6 weeks after intervention, while reported pain while running significantly decreased. The Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) significantly increased from 49.9 ± 21.4 to 90.4 ± 10.3, and the Lower Leg Outcome Survey (LLOS) significantly increased from 67.3 ± 13.7 to 91.5 ± 8.5. The GROC scores at 6 weeks after intervention were between 5 and 7 for all patients. One year after the intervention, the SANE and LLOS scores were greater than reported during the 6-week follow-up. Two-mile run times were also significantly faster than preintervention values. No patient required surgery.

Conclusion: In 10 consecutive patients with CECS, a 6-week forefoot strike running intervention led to decreased postrunning lower leg intracompartmental pressures. Pain and disability typically associated with CECS were greatly reduced for up to 1 year after intervention. Surgical intervention was avoided for all patients.
The Role of Economic Development Corporations in Local Economic Development
Authors: Jarmon Christopher A. , Vanderleeuw James M. , Pennington Michael S. , Sowers Thomas E.
Published: March 2012

Since their establishment, city-level economic development corporations in Texas have grown in popularity as an ostensible means of providing for economic development. However, one knows little about the association between these economic development entities and the economic vitality of the areas they serve. Using a 2005-2006 survey of city leaders in Texas, along with Census data for 304 Texas cities, the authors investigate the association between the use of economic development corporations and the level of local unemployment. Results of the analysis indicate that economic development corporations have a reliable association with lower levels of unemployment; however, the activities of these entities matter. Lower levels of community employment are associated with activities that focus on industrial development. In contrast, the authors find no reliable relationship between the level of city unemployment and economic development corporations that engage in quality of life activities.
Structure and dynamic mechanical kinetics of polyvinyl acetate–montmorillonite–dioctadecyl dimethyl ammonium bromide
Authors: Cui Hui-wang , Du Guan-ben
Published: March 2012

To study the dynamic mechanical kinetics of exfoliated nanocomposites using dynamic mechanical analysis, polyvinyl acetate (PVAc)–montmorillonite (MMT)–dioctadecyl dimethyl ammonium bromide (DOAB) was synthesized through five different processes. Different synthesis processes and MMT-DOAB had little effect on the structure of PVAc-MMT-DOAB. MMT-DOAB lowered the glass transition temperature of PVAc, hence improving its low temperature resistance greatly. PVAc and PVAc-MMT-DOAB were homogeneous amorphous linear polymers and they appeared cold crystallized, and their glass transition and cold crystallization kinetics were analyzed using Agrawal integral equation.
Effect of extrusion conditions on the surface quality, mechanical properties, and morphology of cellular wood flour/high-density polyethylene composite profiles
Authors: Adhikary Kamal B , Islam Mohammad R , Rizvi Ghaus M , Park Chul B
Published: March 2012

Wood-plastic composite (WPC) can be fine-cell processed to create a new class of low-weight composite material with improved mechanical properties that could broaden their applications. This study investigated the effects of a chemical blowing agent (CBA) and the drawdown ratio (DDR) on the surface quality, cell morphology, and mechanical properties of extruded foamed WPC profiles. The rectangular foamed WPC profiles were produced from high-density polyethylene and wood flour with different CBA contents and DDR values using a twin-screw extrusion line. The foam density, cell density, and their sizes and shapes were largely depended on the CBA content and the DDR. A foamed WPC profile with a 22% density reduction with cellular structure can be produced using an extrusion profile line.
Community Positions, Neoliberal Dispositions: Managing Nonprofit Social Services Within the Bureaucratic Field
Authors: Woolford Andrew , Curran Amelia
Published: March 2012

In this article, we demonstrate the critical value of Loïc Wacquant’s reworking of Pierre Bourdieu’s concept of the bureaucratic field for the study of nonprofit social services. In particular, we suggest that this approach offers a richer understanding of the neoliberalization of nonprofit social service agencies. To illustrate this point, we draw upon interviews with nonprofit social service providers in Winnipeg, Manitoba, examining the field competition between welfare and neoliberal orientations to social service practice, as nonprofit agency managers seek to adapt to the shifting conditions of the bureaucratic field. Building upon Wacquant’s analysis, we argue that the welfare dispositions presented in our interviews are inadequate to protect the social services from neoliberal restructuring. Instead, we present the reflexive practices articulated by Indigenous social service agencies as a model for a counter-transposition that could offer a more powerful challenge to the neoliberalization of the bureaucratic field.
Multi-objective optimization procedure for the wing design at cruise and low-speed conditions
Authors: Bolsunovsky Anatoly L , Gubanova Maria A
Published: March 2012

The procedure for wing aerodynamic design based on the algorithm of simultaneous multiregime optimization of cruise and low-speed performance is considered. The method is based on the combination of fast direct methods for subsonic and transonic wing analysis, geometry variation module and the optimization procedure. The description of all the components and examples of practical application of the developed technique for design of the conventional medium-haul airplane wing and the ‘Flying Wing’ configuration are presented.
Acceptance testing and commissioning of a flight simulator for rotorcraft simulation fidelity research
Authors: White Mark D , Perfect Philip , Padfield Gareth D , Gubbels Arthur W , Berryman Andrew C
Published: March 2012

The rotorcraft industry faces a number of challenges today regarding the replacement of ageing airframes, an expansion in the operational roles of helicopters and a requirement to improve safety whilst reducing the environmental impact of rotorcraft operations. The quantification of simulation fidelity underpins the confidence required for the expanding use of modelling and simulation to develop solutions to these challenges in a timely and cost-efficient manner. Current simulator certification standards do not provide a fully quantitative method for assessing simulation fidelity, especially in a research environment. This article details the commissioning and acceptance process of the new research flight simulation facility at the University of Liverpool, HELIFLIGHT-R, and its subsequent use in a research project ‘Lifting Standards: A Novel Approach to the Development of Fidelity Criteria for Rotorcraft Flight Simulators’ aimed at developing new predicted and perceptual measures of simulator fidelity. Some initial results from both piloted simulation and flight tests using the Bell 412 Advanced Systems Research Aircraft are reported within the context of the rotorcraft simulation fidelity project.
Cuing Consumerism
Authors: Bauer Monika A. , Wilkie James E. B. , Kim Jung K. , Bodenhausen Galen V.
Published: March 2012

Correlational evidence indicates that materialistic individuals experience relatively low levels of well-being. Across four experiments, we found that situational cuing can also trigger materialistic mind-sets, with similarly negative personal and social consequences. Merely viewing desirable consumer goods resulted in increases in materialistic concerns and led to heightened negative affect and reduced social involvement (Experiment 1). Framing a computer task as a “Consumer Reaction Study” led to a stronger automatic bias toward values reflecting self-enhancement, compared with framing the same task as a “Citizen Reaction Study” (Experiment 2). Consumer cues also increased competitiveness (Experiment 3) and selfishness in a water-conservation dilemma (Experiment 4). Thus, the costs of materialism are not localized only in particularly materialistic people, but can also be found in individuals who happen to be exposed to environmental cues that activate consumerism—cues that are commonplace in contemporary society.
Response-adaptive designs for continuous treatment responses in phase III clinical trials: A review
Authors: Biswas Atanu , Bhattacharya Rahul
Published: March 2012

A variety of response-adaptive randomization procedures have been proposed in literature assuming binary outcomes. However, the list is not so long for continuous outcomes though many real clinical trials deal with continuous treatment responses. In this paper, we attempt to explore the available procedures together with a comparison of their performances. Some real-life adaptive trial is also reviewed.
Health Behaviors of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Adults in California
Authors: Moy Karen L. , Sallis James F. , Trinidad Dennis R. , Ice Christa L. , McEligot Archana J.
Published: March 2012

Smoking, diet and physical activity are associated with chronic diseases, but representative prevalence data on these behaviors for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) adults are scarce. Data from the 2005 California Health Interview Survey were analyzed for self-identified NHPI and non-Hispanic white (NHW) adults. Ethnic and NHPI gender differences were examined for socio-demographic variables, obesity and health behaviors. Compared to NHW, NHPI displayed higher prevalence of obesity (p<0.001), smoking (p<0.05) and consumption of unhealthy foods and beverages (p<0.05). NHPI males were more likely than females to smoke (p<0.001). NHPI adults appear to be at higher risk for chronic disease than NHW due to obesity, smoking and intake of unhealthy foods and beverages. Culturally-specific health promotion interventions are needed to reduce risks among the underrepresented NHPI population.
Men’s Role in Women’s Antenatal Health Status
Authors: Rahman Mosiur , Islam Mohammad Touhidul , Mostofa Md. Golam , Reza Md. Shahin
Published: March 2012

This study aimed to extend notions of men’s role in women’s antenatal care (ANC) status in rural Rajshahi, Bangladesh. The analyses were based on response of 480 men aged 15 to 54 years, living with at least 1 child younger than 3 years. Only 27% men accompanied their wives for ANC. Men’s perception of actual roles for ANC services was low: 63% approved of women undergoing checkups; 33% discussed their wives’ pregnancy with health professionals. Only 18% scored highly on the overall index of knowledge. From multivariate analysis, it was found that the number of men accompanying their wives for ANC was higher among those respondents who were married for the first time in the age-group 25 to 34 years and aged 35 years or more, had their last child at age-group 20 to 24 years or 25 to 34 years, had completed primary or secondary and higher education, and had mass media facilities.
Disparities in Early Childhood Caries and Its Impact on Oral Health–Related Quality of Life of Preschool Children
Authors: Krisdapong Sudaduang , Somkotra Tewarit , Kueakulpipat Wilai
Published: March 2012

This study aimed to investigate the caries experience and its impact on preschool children’s quality of life and the associations between these outcomes and underlying determinants. A survey was conducted on 5- to 6-year-old children (503 in all) in Bangkok who were orally examined and interviewed on their oral health–related quality of life (OHRQoL). In addition, behavioral questionnaires were sent to parents. Associations between determinants and oral health outcomes were tested through logistic regression. It was found that 28% of children experienced high-level impacts on quality of life, mostly dental pain (58.3%) and eating difficulties (45.9%). Children of low socioeconomic status were more likely to have a high level of dental caries and subsequent OHRQoL impact. Oral status was related to oral behaviors and OHRQoL. Social disparities in preschool children’s OHRQoL were identified.
Association of Modifiable Lifestyle Behaviors With Hypertension by Various Body Mass Index Categories in Tianjin Province of China
Authors: Wang Yuan , Guo Jian , Lu Wenli , Li YongLe , Wang JianHua , Wan Zheng
Published: March 2012

The present study was conducted to identify the difference of the relationship between lifestyle behaviors with hypertension (HTN) by various body mass index (BMI) categories. A cross-sectional study was conducted among Tianjin urban communities. A total of 26 438 subjects were randomly selected. The authors evaluated associations of lifestyle behaviors with HTN among normal, overweight, and obese adults using a hierarchical logistic model considering the gross domestic product of residence as socioeconomic proxy. A positive association was found between BMI and the risk of HTN among male and female subjects. Current smoking was associated with a higher risk of HTN in overweight (odds ratio [OR] = 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04-1.36) and obese groups (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.03-1.53). There were statistically significant associations of current drinking with risk of HTN in normal weight (OR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.01-1.31) and overweight groups (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.07-1.40). The prevention of overweight and obesity is important in preventing HTN. Additionally, adherence to healthy lifestyle is associated with less risk of HTN in various BMI categories.
Lifestyle of Young Australian Adults With Asthma
Authors: Liang Wenbin , Chikritzhs Tanya , Lee Andy H.
Published: March 2012

Asthma is a highly prevalent disease that may affect the lifestyle adopted by young adults. This study investigated whether asthma status influences fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity level, tobacco smoking, and alcohol drinking behavior of young adults in Australia. Information of 2619 participants aged 18 to 29 years was extracted from the 2007-2008 Australian National Health Survey database. The level of physical activity and fruit consumption were found to be similar between young adults with and without asthma. Participants with asthma symptoms in the past 12 months were more likely to achieve the dietary recommendation for vegetable intake, but they tended to smoke tobacco and consume alcohol above safe levels. It may be necessary to develop prevention strategies targeting young adults with asthma that include screening for harmful use of substances.
A Metasynthesis of Midwife-Led Care
Authors: Walsh Denis , Devane Declan
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this metasynthesis is to describe and interpret qualitative research relating to midwife-led care to see if it sheds light on why low-risk women experience fewer birth interventions within this model of care. Eleven articles were included in the review. Three themes emerged: (a) relationally mediated benefits for women that resulted in increased agency and empathic care; (b) the problematic interface of midwife-led units with host maternity units, stemming from a clash of models and culture; and (c) greater agency for midwives within midwife-led models of care though bounded by the relationship with the host maternity unit. This metasynthesis suggests that lower rates of interventions could be linked to the greater agency experienced by women and midwives within midwife-led models, and that these effects are mediated, in part, by the smallness of scale in these settings.
The Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children
Authors: Houghton Stephen , Hunter Simon C. , Trewin Toby , Glasgow Ken , Carroll Annemaree
Published: March 2012

Objective: To examine the factor structure of the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children (MASC) with Australian adolescents with and without ADHD. Method: The MASC was administered to 210 high school–aged adolescents (109 males, 101 females), 115 of whom were clinically diagnosed as ADHD (86 males, 29 females). The remaining 95 were non-ADHD community comparisons. Results: Analyses supported a three-factor model, with a reduced item pool, which combined the Harm Avoidance and Separation Anxiety scales together. This model was invariant across younger and older participants, and across boys and girls. The model was largely invariant across ADHD and non-ADHD groups. The ADHD group had significantly higher Physical Symptom factor scores than the non-ADHD group. Conclusion: The MASC is useful for assessing anxiety in adolescents with and without ADHD, but items reflecting the Harm Avoidance and Separation Anxiety scales may need revising.
Aqueous Extracts of Lippia turbinata and Aloysia citriodora (Verbenaceae): Assessment of Antioxidant Capacity and DNA damage
Authors: Portmann Erika , Nigro Marcela M. López , Reides Claudia G. , Llesuy Susana , Ricco Rafael A. , Wagner Marcelo L. , Gurni Alberto A. , Carballo Marta A.
Published: March 2012

The aim of the present work was to make a contribution to the knowledge of aqueous extracts of Lippia turbinata and Aloysia citriodora (Verbenaceae; infusion and decoction) in relation with the establishment of its antioxidant activity and lack of DNA damage, for its potential use in therapeutics. The cytogenotoxic profile was evaluated through genotoxic biomarkers such as mitotic index, cellular proliferation kinetics, sister chromatid exchanges, single-cell gel electrophoresis assay, and micronucleus test in human peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures. No statistical differences were found ( P > .05) between control and exposed cultures, even between both aqueous extracts. The total antioxidant capacity was shown to be higher in the decoction than in the infusion and both aqueous extracts protected against protein carbonylation and lipid peroxidation, the decoction being more efficient than the infusion ( P < .005). These results suggest the safe use of these medicinal plants as chemoecologic agents in therapeutics.
A New Realistic Evaluation Analysis Method
Authors: Jackson Suzanne F. , Kolla Gillian
Published: March 2012

In attempting to use a realistic evaluation approach to explore the role of Community Parents in early parenting programs in Toronto, a novel technique was developed to analyze the links between contexts (C), mechanisms (M) and outcomes (O) directly from experienced practitioner interviews. Rather than coding the interviews into themes in terms of context, intervention elements (mechanisms) and outcomes separately and which could be assembled into CMO configurations by the analyst, they were coded as linked dyads and triads directly from the practitioner narratives. Out of all of the linked codes entered, there were a maximum of three with the same combination, presenting challenges for typical qualitative data analysis. This article examines a novel technique that was developed in an attempt to expand this method beyond the circumstances described in the realistic evaluation literature to date. The bulk of the article focuses on the linked coding and analysis procedures, the challenges faced, and the original solutions that were developed to analyze the CMO relations and generate the mid-range theories necessary to move to the next stage of a realist evaluation approach. The features that distinguish this linked coding method from other methods (e.g. Qualitative Comparative Analysis), the major benefits and drawbacks, the utility of the approach within evaluation practice, and its application to realist synthesis and research are discussed.
Using Perseverative Interests to Improve Interactions Between Adolescents With Autism and Their Typical Peers in School Settings
Authors: Koegel Robert L. , Fredeen Rosy , Kim Sunny , Danial John , Rubinstein Derek , Koegel Lynn
Published: March 2012

The literature suggests that adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) typically are not socially engaged during unstructured school activities and do not initiate social activities with typically developing peers. This study assessed whether implementing socialization opportunities in the form of lunch clubs based around aspects of the adolescents with ASD’s perseverative interests would promote positive and direct social interaction between the target adolescent and their typically developing peers. A repeated measures multiple baseline experimental design (with two reversals) was implemented across participants. During baseline measures, the participants did not show social engagement or initiations. During intervention, results showed large increases in both social engagement and initiations. These results have implications for understanding variables related to social development in autism.
Evaluation of a Sibling-Mediated Imitation Intervention for Young Children With Autism
Authors: Walton Katherine M. , Ingersoll Brooke R.
Published: March 2012

Parents and peers have been successful at implementing interventions targeting social interactions in children with autism; however, few interventions have trained siblings as treatment providers. This study used a multiple-baseline design across six sibling dyads (four children with autism) to evaluate the efficacy of sibling-implemented reciprocal imitation training. All six typically developing siblings were able to learn and use contingent imitation, four of the six siblings were able to learn and use linguistic mapping, and all six siblings increased their use of at least one component of the imitation training procedure. Three of the four children with autism showed increases in overall imitation and all four showed evidence of increases in joint engagement. Parents and siblings reported high satisfaction with the intervention, and ratings by naïve observers indicated significant changes from pre- to posttreatment. These results suggest that sibling-implemented reciprocal imitation training may be a promising intervention for young children with autism.
Perceived Barriers and Enablers to Implementing Individualized Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports in School Settings
Authors: Bambara Linda M. , Goh Ailsa , Kern Lee , Caskie Grace
Published: March 2012

Identifying factors perceived to either hinder or support the implementation of individualized positive behavior interventions and supports (IPBIS) is essential for promoting sustainable practice. This survey study examined the extent to which school-based professionals ( n = 293) experienced barriers and enablers and examined their perceived level of impact on hindering or supporting the implementation of IPBIS in schools. Results indicated that the most problematic barriers were also the most experienced by respondents and consisted of factors largely related to beliefs, time, and training. Most professionals reported enablers to provide moderate to substantial support, but few were frequently experienced by respondents in schools. Professionals serving as IPBIS team leaders rated enablers related to training and ongoing supports higher in terms of impact than regular team members. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Introducing a Latin ballroom dance class to people with dementia living in care homes, benefits and concerns: A pilot study
Authors: Guzmán-García Azucena , Mukaetova-Ladinska Elizabeta , James Ian
Published: March 2012

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of introducing a dance-based psychomotor intervention using Danzón (Latin ballroom) for people with dementia in care homes. This was a grounded theory qualitative study. Thirteen of the 22 participants had dementia and were care-home residents. The remaining participants were care staff and facilitators of the dance sessions. Interviews were undertaken with seven people with dementia and nine staff, resulting in two separate sets of grounded theory methodologies. Two conceptual models, outlining positive outcomes and negative concerns of the use of Danzón were developed, depicting the experiences of people with dementia and care staff respectively. Danzón psychomotor intervention was found to enhance positive emotional states and general levels of satisfaction for both people with dementia and care staff. The details of these findings have been used to design a quantitative study.
The implementation of integrated emotion-oriented care: Did it actually change the attitude, skills and time spent of trained caregivers?
Authors: van der Kooij CH , Dröes RM , de Lange J , Ettema TP , Cools HJM , van Tilburg W
Published: March 2012

Background:

Successful implementation is a vital precondition for investigating the outcome of care innovation. This study concerned the evaluation of the implementation of integrated emotion-oriented care (IEOC) in psychogeriatric nursing home wards. The main question was whether the trained caregivers actually applied the knowledge and techniques of IEOC during their daily work.

Methods:

The study was conducted within the framework of a randomized clinical trial into the effectiveness of IEOC in 16 wards. Preceding the experimental period, staff from 16 wards were educated and trained to work with a standardized care plan, resulting in a similar level of quality of care at the start of the trial. On the experimental wards IEOC was then implemented by training on the job in addition to training courses for personnel. To examine the implementation effectiveness, a self-report questionnaire, ‘Emotion-oriented Skills in the Interaction with Elderly People with Dementia’, was administered at baseline and after 7 months to a sample of caregivers from the experimental and the control wards. In addition, participant observation was conducted on four experimental and four control wards, and time spent by care personnel on different type of care tasks was registered.

Results:

The implementation of IEOC resulted in increased emotion-oriented skills and more knowledge of the residents among the caregivers. Providing IEOC was not more time consuming for the caregivers than providing usual care.

Conclusion:

This study shows that the implementation of IEOC was effective. It is recommended that in intervention studies the correct application of a new intervention or care approach is examined before jumping to conclusions about the effectiveness of the intervention or care approach itself.
Why do dementia patients become unable to lead a daily life with decreasing cognitive function?
Authors: Yokoi Teruo , Okamura Hitoshi
Published: March 2012

In order to understand the words and deeds of dementia patients that we find very hard to explain or understand, we have paid attention to the self-awareness ability of dementia patients, the intellectual subject that integrates their own intellectual functions, and created ‘a model for interpreting puzzling words and deeds of dementia patients from the viewpoint of self-awareness’. The purpose of this study is to explain the reasons why dementia patients become unable to successfully perform activities of daily living (ADL) with advancement of dementia, using our model to present viewpoints understandable to caregivers. We classified dementia inpatients of a geriatric health services facility into four stages, using the model of self-awareness ability (consisting of ‘theory of mind’, ‘self-evaluation’ and ‘self-consciousness’) that was constructed by combining ‘theory of mind’ and Lewis’s developmental model of cognition and emotion. Furthermore, we observed and documented scenes from daily life, and we interpreted the reasons why patients become unable to seek assistance from others for ADL, based on the model. We came to understand why the patients could not seek assistance from others, because the patients who failed in the task of ‘theory of mind’ were unable to self-assess their own mind and the minds of others, and those having failed in the task of ‘self-evaluation’ could not evaluate their own situation.
Evaluating proFamilies-dementia: Adopting photovoice to capture clinical significance
Authors: Guerra Sara R , Rodrigues Sofia P , Demain Sara , Figueiredo Daniela M , Sousa Liliana X
Published: March 2012

Dementia is a challenging chronic illness that affects the patients and their families. Families often perform a full-time, specialised role, which requires expert knowledge and skills. This paper describes the evaluation of proFamilies-dementia (a programme developed to support families that care for a relative with dementia) using an innovative participatory methodology: photovoice, a qualitative method of research that uses photography and voice to access people’s experiences. The programme was evaluated in order to identify the positive and negative impacts of the intervention on individuals and families; the advantages and disadvantages of photovoice as a participatory tool were also captured. The sample consisted of six people from five families. Participants identified only positive impacts of the programme, including better emotional management, normalisation of feelings and increased focus on self-care. Photovoice facilitated access to the process of change initiated by proFamilies-dementia, described by a process of going beyond illness, negativity and loneliness.
Disturbing Distractions
Authors: Evans Katherine R. , Lester Jessica N.
Published: March 2012

In this poetic piece, we seek to represent our unfolding understandings, dilemmas, and epiphanies around working within, and at times against, practices that get named school discipline, classroom management, and the day-to-day realities of “dealing” with those “troubled kids.” We focus on the ways in which disciplinary practices are often racialized, as the bodies of already targeted children are “interpreted” through a lens of pathology and criminology. The poem is presented in four sections with each section representing various voices that we have encountered in our work in public schools in a district we name the White Mountain Assimilated School District in the state of Southland.
Finding Nebuchadnezzar in Poland
Authors: Clinton DeWitt
Published: March 2012

Part travelogue, part memoir, part reflection on death and the camps of the Shoah, this article examines the psychological and sociological impact of traveling in Lithuania and Poland with a group of Wisconsin college students who attempted to better understand the cataclysmic events of Europe in the 1930s and 1940s. The article also explores what the author did and did not know about Judaism, Jews, and the Holocaust as a child and even as a young adult. The author’s own mother’s ashes add an even additional insight into this exploration of how ashes have shaped the author’s memories of countless burials.
Employee Engagement and Leadership
Authors: Shuck Brad , Herd Ann Mogan
Published: March 2012

As the use of workplace knowledge economies increases and emerging motivational-state variables such as employee engagement become more widely used, current frameworks of leadership are undergoing changes in perspective and practice. Moreover, while shifts in workplace dynamics have occurred in practice for some time, scholars are now calling for a new perspective of leadership. This article explores the connection between traditional and emerging leadership theories and the motivational-state variable of employee engagement, building toward a conceptual framework proposed for further refinement, discussion, and ultimately testing. A conceptual link between meeting and understanding employee needs, the use of emotional intelligence as a leadership competency, and transformational leadership is examined. Implications for leadership development in research and practice in an HRD context bring this article to a close.
EEG Leading to the Diagnosis of Limbic Encephalitis
Authors: Vliet Judith van , Mulleners Wim , Meulstee Jan
Published: March 2012

Limbic encephalitis is characterized by subacute onset of short-term memory loss, seizures, sleep disturbances, as well as psychiatric and behavioral symptoms. A subgroup is associated with voltage-gated potassium channel antibodies (VGKC-Abs). In many cases, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrates hyperintense areas in the medial part of the temporal lobe. Also, pleiocytosis is frequently found. In this study, we describe a 69-year-old man with VGKC-Abs limbic encephalitis with generalized tonic–clonic seizures, increasing memory deficits, visual hallucinations, depression, and severe insomnia. Brain MRI and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were normal, while the electroencephalogram (EEG) showed bilateral frontal and temporal intermittent rhythmic delta activity with disorganization and slowing of background activity, ultimately leading to the diagnosis of limbic encephalitis. The patient improved markedly after starting immunosuppressive therapy, both clinically and electrophysiologically. In addition to temporal lobe involvement on the brain MRI and CSF inflammation, we propose EEG abnormalities as an additional diagnostic criterion for limbic encephalitis.
EEG Classification Approach Based on the Extreme Learning Machine and Wavelet Transform
Authors: Yuan Qi , Zhou Weidong , Zhang Jing , Li Shufang , Cai Dongmei , Zeng Yanjun
Published: March 2012

Automatic detection and classification of electroencephalogram (EEG) epileptic activity aid diagnosis and relieve the heavy workload of doctors. This article presents a new EEG classification approach based on the extreme learning machine (ELM) and wavelet transform (WT). First, the WT is used to extract useful features when certain scales cover abnormal components of the EEG. Second, the ELM algorithm is used to train a single hidden layer of feedforward neural network (SLFN) features. Finally, the SLFN is tested with interictal and ictal EEGs. The experiments demonstrated that the proposed approach achieved a satisfactory classification rate of 99.25% for interictal and ictal EEGs.
Utilising human performance criteria and computer simulation to design a martial arts kicking robot with increased biofidelity
Authors: Tsui Felix , Pain Matthew TG
Published: March 2012

The rules and regulations of Taekwondo stipulate how the sport must be played and the necessary personal protective equipment. As such, personal protective equipment performance under controlled rigid drop-tests is also outlined. Unfortunately, these impacts do not replicate human loading effectively, making conclusions about their performance unknown. However, it may be possible to use human kinematic data to improve the biofidelity of current impactors, including a current single-segment martial arts kicking robot. Five martial artists performed a series of roundhouse kicks while reflective markers on the kicking leg and pelvis were used to track hip, knee, ankle and foot positions. Using specific single-segment martial arts kicking robot robot parameters, computer simulation was used to model a single-segment martial arts kicking robot performance (1-SM) and to form a multi-segment, multi-joint model to match human kinematic data (3-SM). The 3-SM was found to produce similar kinematics to human performance while reducing the overall effective mass at impact, motor torque and stress concentration magnitudes in the leg when compared to the 1-SM. This study suggested that human performances could be used to improve current mechanical testing techniques without introducing much complexity to improve the external validity of protective equipment evaluation testing.
Bilateral adrenal EBV-associated smooth muscle tumors in a child with a natural killer cell deficiency
Authors: Shaw Rachel K. , Issekutz Andrew C. , Fraser Robert , Schmit Pierre , Morash Barb , Monaco-Shawver Linda , Orange Jordan S. , Fernandez Conrad V.
Published: March 2012

EBV-associated smooth muscle tumors are found in immunocompromised patients, most commonly HIV/AIDS. We present a 12-year-old girl with the first documented case of EBV-related smooth muscle tumors in the presence of a rare classic NK cell deficiency. This sheds light on the role of NK cells in controlling EBV-related smooth muscle tumors.