bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid voltage sensor imaging of electrical activity from neurons in hippocampal slices from transgenic mice
Authors: Wang Dongsheng , McMahon Shane , Zhang Zhen , Jackson Meyer B.
Published: September 2012

Gene targeting with genetically encoded optical voltage sensors brings the methods of voltage imaging to genetically defined neurons and offers a method of studying circuit activity in these selected populations. The present study reports the targeting of genetically encoded hybrid voltage sensors (hVOS) to neurons in transgenic mice. The hVOS family of probes employs a membrane-targeted fluorescent protein, which generates voltage-dependent fluorescence changes in the presence of dipicrylamine (DPA) as the result of a voltage-dependent optical interaction between the two molecules. We generated transgenic mice with two different high-performance hVOS probes under control of a neuron-specific thy-1 promoter. Hippocampal slices from these animals present distinct spatial patterns of expression, and electrical stimulation evoked fluorescence changes as high as 3%. Glutamate receptor and Na+ channel antagonists blocked these responses. One hVOS probe tested here harbors an axonal targeting motif (from GAP-43) and shows preferential expression in axons; this probe can thus report axonal voltage changes. Voltage imaging in transgenic mice expressing hVOS probes opens the door to the study of functional activity in genetically defined populations of neurons in intact neural circuits.
Forest Succession and Maternity Day Roost Selection byMyotis septentrionalisin a Mesophytic Hardwood Forest
Authors: Silvis Alexander , Ford W. Mark , Britzke Eric R. , Beane Nathan R. , Johnson Joshua B.
Published: September 2012

Conservation of summer maternity roosts is considered critical for bat management in North America, yet many aspects of the physical and environmental factors that drive roost selection are poorly understood. We tracked 58 female northern bats (Myotis septentrionalis) to 105 roost trees of 21 species on the Fort Knox military reservation in north-central Kentucky during the summer of 2011. Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) was used as a day roost more than expected based on forest stand-level availability and accounted for 48.6% of all observed day roosts. Using logistic regression and an information theoretic approach, we were unable to reliably differentiate between sassafras and other roost species or between day roosts used during different maternity periods using models representative of individual tree metrics, site metrics, topographic location, or combinations of these factors. For northern bats, we suggest that day-roost selection is not a function of differences between individual tree speciesper se, but rather of forest successional patterns, stand and tree structure. Present successional trajectories may not provide this particular selected structure again without management intervention, thereby suggesting that resource managers take a relatively long retrospective view to manage current and future forest conditions for bats.
The Role of Medications in Causing Dry Eye
Authors: Fraunfelder Frederick T. , Sciubba James J. , Mathers William D.
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this paper is to review the possible role of polypharmacy in causing dry eye disease (DED), reflecting the complex interactions and complications associated with the use of multiple systemic and topical ocular medications. The pharmacological, physiological, anatomical, and histological mechanisms causing dry mouth differ little from those causing dry eye. Oral polypharmacy is the most common cause of dry mouth, but has not been investigated as a cause of dry eye. Topical ocular polypharmacy has been shown to cause DED. Information on drugs that likely cause or aggravate DED and the controversial role of preservatives in topical ocular medications are examined. Systemic or topical ocular medications and preservatives used in topical ocular drugs may cause dry eye through the drug's therapeutic action, ocular surface effects, or preservatives, and the effects probably are additive. Long-term use of topical ocular medications, especially those containing preservatives such as BAK, may play an important role in DED and the role of polypharmacy needs further study. We review possible ways to decrease the risk of medication-related dry eye.
D‐Optimal Design for Parameter Estimation in Discrete‐Time Nonlinear Dynamic Systems
Authors: Liu Yu , Karimi Hamid Reza , Yu Zhiwei
Published: September 2012

An optimal input design method for parameter estimation in a discrete‐time nonlinear system is presented in the paper to improve the observability and identification precision of model parameters. Determinant of the information matrix is used as the criterion function which is generally a nonconvex function about the input signals to be designed. To avoid the locally optimizing problem, a randomized design method is proposed by which a globally optimizing test plan other than input signals may be obtained. Then the randomized design can be approximated by a nonrandomized design about optimal inputs. An iterative algorithm integrated with dynamic programming is given and verified by a numerical example on experimental design for self‐calibration tests of ISP system.
Fault Detection of Inline Reciprocating Diesel Engine: A Mass and Gas-Torque Approach
Authors: Gawande S. H. , Navale L. G. , Nandgaonkar M. R. , Butala D. S. , Kunamalla S.
Published: September 2012

Early fault detection and diagnosis for medium-speed diesel engines are important to ensure reliable operation throughout the course of their service. This work presents an investigation of the diesel engine combustion-related fault detection capability of crankshaft torsional vibrations. Proposed methodology state the way of early fault detection in the operating six-cylinder diesel engine. The model of six cylinders DI Diesel engine is developed appropriately. As per the earlier work by the same author the torsional vibration amplitudes are used to superimpose the mass and gas torque. Further mass and gas torque analysis is used to detect fault in the operating engine. The DFT of the measured crankshaft’s speed, under steady-state operating conditions at constant load shows significant variation of the amplitude of the lowest major harmonic order. This is valid both for uniform operating and faulty conditions and the lowest harmonic orders may be used to correlate its amplitude to the gas pressure torque and mass torque for a given engine. The amplitudes of the lowest harmonic orders (0.5, 1, and 1.5) of the gas pressure torque and mass torque are used to map the fault. A method capable to detect faulty cylinder of operating Kirloskar diesel engine of SL90 Engine-SL8800TA type is developed, based on the phases of the lowest three harmonic orders.
Strong Convergence Theorems for a Common Fixed Point of a Finite Family of Pseudocontractive Mappings
Authors: Daman O. A. , Zegeye H.
Published: September 2012

It is our purpose, in this paper, to prove strong convergence of Halpern-Ishikawa iteration method to a common fixed point of finite family of Lipschitz pseudocontractive mappings. There is no compactness assumption imposed either onCor onT. The results obtained in this paper improve most of the results that have been proved for this class of nonlinear mappings.
Advanced Measuring (Instrumentation) Methods for Nuclear Installations: A Review
Authors: Qiu-kuan Wang , Chang-hua Lin , Yan Yang
Published: September 2012

The nuclear technology has been widely used in the world. The research of measurement in nuclear installations involves many aspects, such as nuclear reactors, nuclear fuel cycle, safety and security, nuclear accident, after action, analysis, and environmental applications. In last decades, many advanced measuring devices and techniques have been widely applied in nuclear installations. This paper mainly introduces the development of the measuring (instrumentation) methods for nuclear installations and the applications of these instruments and methods.
Hybrid Steepest Descent Viscosity Method for Triple Hierarchical Variational Inequalities
Authors: Ceng L.-C. , Ansari Q. H. , Wen C.-F.
Published: September 2012

We consider a triple hierarchical variational inequality problem (in short, THVIP). By combining hybrid steepest descent method, viscosity method, and projection method, we propose an approximation method to compute the approximate solution of THVIP. We also study the strong convergence of the sequences generated by the proposed method to a solution of THVIP.
CFD Analysis of a Void Distribution Benchmark of the NUPEC PSBT Tests: Model Calibration and Influence of Turbulence Modelling
Authors: Krepper E. , Rzehak R.
Published: September 2012

The paper presents CFD calculations of the void distribution tests of the PSBT benchmark using ANSYS CFX-12.1. First, relevant aspects of the implemented wall boiling model are reviewed highlighting the uncertainties in several model parameters. It is then shown that the measured cross-sectionally averaged values can be reproduced well with a single set of calibrated model parameters for different test cases. For the reproduction of patterns of void distribution cross-sections, attention has to be focussed on the modelling of turbulence in the narrow channel. Only a turbulence model with the capability to resolve turbulent secondary flows is able to reproduce at least qualitatively the observed void distribution patterns.
Targeting the PI3K Pathway in the Brain—Efficacy of a PI3K Inhibitor Optimized to Cross the Blood–Brain Barrier
Authors: Salphati Laurent , Heffron Timothy P. , Alicke Bruno , Nishimura Merry , Barck Kai , Carano Richard A. , Cheong Jonathan , Edgar Kyle A. , Greve Joan , Kharbanda Samir , Koeppen Hartmut , Lau Shari , Lee Leslie B. , Pang Jodie , Plise Emile G. , Pokorny Jenny L. , Reslan Hani Bou , Sarkaria Jann N. , Wallin Jeffrey J. , Zhang Xiaolin , Gould Stephen E. , Olivero Alan G. , Phillips Heidi S.
Published: September 2012

Purpose: Glioblastoma (GBM), the most common primary brain tumor in adults, presents a high frequency of alteration in the PI3K pathway. Our objectives were to identify a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor optimized to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and characterize its brain penetration, pathway modulation in the brain and efficacy in orthotopic xenograft models of GBM.

Experimental Design: Physicochemical properties of PI3K inhibitors were optimized using in silico tools, leading to the identification of GNE-317. This compound was tested in cells overexpressing P-glycoprotein (P-gp) or breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). Following administration to mice, GNE-317 plasma and brain concentrations were determined, and phosphorylated biomarkers (pAkt, p4EBP1, and pS6) were measured to assess PI3K pathway suppression in the brain. GNE-317 efficacy was evaluated in the U87, GS2, and GBM10 orthotopic models of GBM.

Results: GNE-317 was identified as having physicochemical properties predictive of low efflux by P-gp and BCRP. Studies in transfected MDCK cells showed that GNE-317 was not a substrate of either transporter. GNE-317 markedly inhibited the PI3K pathway in mouse brain, causing 40% to 90% suppression of the pAkt and pS6 signals up to 6-hour postdose. GNE-317 was efficacious in the U87, GS2, and GBM10 orthotopic models, achieving tumor growth inhibition of 90% and 50%, and survival benefit, respectively.

Conclusions: These results indicated that specific optimization of PI3K inhibitors to cross the BBB led to potent suppression of the PI3K pathway in healthy brain. The efficacy of GNE-317 in 3 intracranial models of GBM suggested that this compound could be effective in the treatment of GBM. Clin Cancer Res; 18(22); 6239–48. ©2012 AACR.
The Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Aortic Disease in Marfan's Syndrome
Authors: Kohler Malcolm , Pitcher Alex , Blair Edward , Risby Peter , Senn Oliver , Forfar Colin , Wordsworth Paul , Stradling John R.
Published: September 2012

Background: Aortic dissection is a life-threatening manifestation of Marfan's syndrome. Preliminary evidence suggests that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with aortic disease in Marfan's syndrome. Objectives: To study the effect of OSA on aortic events in Marfan's syndrome. Methods: In patients with Marfan's syndrome, a sleep study was performed at baseline and OSA was defined as >5 events of apnea/hypopnea (A+H) per hour in bed. Operation because of progressive aortic dilatation and death because of aortic rupture were defined as ‘aortic events'. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were used to compare event-free survival in patients with and without OSA. Cox regression models were used to explore the effects of covariates on event-free survival. Results: Data from 44 patients (mean age 37.4 years, 30 females) were available for analysis; 15 patients (34.1%) had OSA. The median follow-up time was 29 (interquartile range 24-36) months. Five patients had an aortic event within the follow-up time. Median event-free survival was 51.6 months. Event-free survival was significantly shorter in patients with OSA compared to patients without OSA (p = 0.012). In univariate analysis, A+H was associated with aortic events [hazard ratio (HR) 1.09, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.18, p = 0.023]. Taking the interaction between BMI and A+H into account increased the HR for A+H (HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.003-3.048, p = 0.049). This association was no longer significant when other covariates were forced into the multivariate analysis. Conclusions: These data suggest that aortic event-free survival may be shorter in patients with Marfan's syndrome and OSA compared to patients without OSA, but more data from well-designed studies are needed to prove this association.
Retinal Vascular Caliber Measurements: Clinical Significance, Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ikram M. Kamran , Ong Yi Ting , Cheung Carol Y. , Wong Tien Y.
Published: September 2012

The retinal vasculature provides a unique window to assess vascular health noninvasively and directly in vivo. Advances in fundus photography and retinal image analysis techniques have enabled the objective and accurate assessment of quantitative retinal vascular caliber measurement. Over the last decade, large population-based studies have shown that retinal vascular calibers are associated with a wide range of subclinical (e.g. atherosclerosis, inflammation and endothelial dysfunction) and clinical cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, stroke, kidney and heart diseases). However, while retinal image analysis provided exciting possibilities to study the pathogenesis of these diseases, its direct applicability in a clinical setting as a ‘test' to predict cardiovascular diseases is yet to be established, particularly within the context of being used as a population screening tool. Nevertheless, with continual development of retinal imaging techniques and newer understanding of the clinical significance of these retinal changes, there remains scope for the development of retinal vascular caliber measurements as a biomarker for vascular disease risk assessment in targeted areas and patient subgroups (e.g. patients with diabetes, suspected hypertension and stroke).
Unrestrained p38 MAPK Activation in
Dusp1/4
Double-Null Mice Induces Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Auger-Messier Mannix , Accornero Federica , Goonasekera Sanjeewa A. , Bueno Orlando F. , Lorenz John N. , van Berlo Jop H. , Willette Robert N. , Molkentin Jeffery D.
Published: September 2012

Rationale:

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are activated in the heart by disease-inducing and stress-inducing stimuli, where they participate in hypertrophy, remodeling, contractility, and heart failure. A family of dual-specificity phosphatases (DUSPs) directly inactivates each of the MAPK terminal effectors, potentially serving a cardioprotective role.

Objective:

To determine the role of DUSP1 and DUSP4 in regulating p38 MAPK function in the heart and the effect on disease.

Methods and Results:

Here, we generated mice and mouse embryonic fibroblasts lacking both
Dusp1
and
Dusp4
genes. Although single nulls showed no molecular effects, combined disruption of
Dusp1/4
promoted unrestrained p38 MAPK activity in both mouse embryonic fibroblasts and the heart, with no change in the phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinases or extracellular signal-regulated kinases at baseline or with stress stimulation. Single disruption of either
Dusp1
or
Dusp4
did not result in cardiac pathology, although
Dusp1/4
double-null mice exhibited cardiomyopathy and increased mortality with aging. Pharmacological inhibition of p38 MAPK with SB731445 ameliorated cardiomyopathy in
Dusp1/4
double-null mice, indicating that DUSP1/4 function primarily through p38 MAPK in affecting disease. At the cellular level, unrestrained p38 MAPK activity diminished cardiac contractility and Ca
2+
handling, which was acutely reversed with a p38 inhibitory compound. Poor function in
Dusp1/4
double-null mice also was partially rescued by phospholamban deletion.

Conclusions:

Our data demonstrate that
Dusp1
and
Dusp4
are cardioprotective genes that play a critical role in the heart by dampening p38 MAPK signaling that would otherwise reduce contractility and induce cardiomyopathy.
Freezing of Raindrops in Deep Convective Updrafts: A Microphysical and Polarimetric Model
Authors: Kumjian Matthew R. , Ganson Scott M. , Ryzhkov Alexander V.
Published: September 2012

Polarimetric radar observations of convective storms routinely reveal positive differential reflectivity ZDR extending above the 0°C level, indicative of the presence of supercooled liquid particles lofted by the storm’s updraft. The summit of such “ZDR columns” is marked by a zone of enhanced linear depolarization ratio LDR or decreased copolar cross-correlation coefficient ρhv and a sharp decrease in ZDR that together mark a particle freezing zone. To better understand the relation between changes in the storm updraft and the observed polarimetric variables, it is necessary to first understand the physics governing this freezing process and the impact of freezing on the polarimetric variables.

A simplified, one-dimensional explicit bin microphysics model of stochastic drop nucleation by an immersed foreign particle and subsequent deterministic freezing is developed and coupled with an electromagnetic scattering model to explore the impact of the freezing process on the polarimetric radar variables. As expected, the height of the ZDR column is closely related to the updraft strength and initial drop size distribution. Additionally, the treatment of the stochastic nucleation process can also affect the depth of the freezing zone, underscoring the need to accurately depict this process in parameterizations. Representation of stochastic nucleation and deterministic freezing for each drop size bin yields better agreement between observations and the modeled vertical profiles of the surface reflectivity factor ZH and ZDR than bulk microphysics schemes. Further improvements in the representation of the LDR cap, the observed ZDR gradient in the freezing zone, and the magnitude of the ρhv minimum may require inclusion of accretion, which was not included in this model.
Microstructure and thermal conductivity of Cu–B/diamond composites
Authors: Chu Ke , Jia Chengchang , Guo Hong , Li Wensheng
Published: September 2012

This article considers the potential of boron as matrix-alloying element and gives perspectives about which content of boron is favorable to maximize the interfacial bonding and thermal conductivity of copper/diamond composites. The thermal conductivity of Cu–B/diamond composites is investigated both experimentally and theoretically. The thermal conductivity measurements show that the optimum boron content at 0.8 wt% has provided highest thermal conductivity of 538 W/mK, increases 190% compared to that of copper/diamond composite without boron addition. Theoretical models are used to understand the underlying thermal conductivity enhancement mechanisms of matrix alloying. It is found that the Hasselman–Johnson model combined with a modified Debye model considering the carbide thermal resistance can provide a satisfactory agreement to the experimental data.
Study on the nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of ternary-monomer solid-phase graft copolymer of polypropylene
Authors: Hao-Qun Hong , Hai-Yan Zhang , Si-Da Jiang , Hui He , De-Min Jia
Published: September 2012

In order to discover how the grafted side chains affect the crystallization of the graft copolymers, the ternary-monomer solid-phase graft copolymers of polypropylene (PP; PPSM) were synthesized by solid-phase grafting of maleic anhydride, styrene and butyl acrylate onto PP. The Jeziorny and Mo methods were used to investigate the nonisothermal crystallization kinetics and polarizing microscope was used to study the crystalline morphology of PPSM. Results show that the grafted side chains not only promoted the heteronucleation of PP and reduced the size of spherulites but also hindered the growth of crystals resulting in the formation of imperfect crystallization region in PP. Due to the hindrance of the grafted side chains on the crystallization, the nonisothermal crystallization energy (ΔE) of PPSM calculated by the Kissinger equation is evidently higher than that of PP.
Feasible and economic process for using organic disulfide and organic mercaptane as a reclaiming agent for ground tire powder (GTP)
Authors: Tawfic Medhat Lotfy , Younan Adel Fareed
Published: September 2012

The current work deals with the use of organic disulfides and organic mercaptanes as efficient reclaiming agents for ground tire powder (GTP). The efficiency of the reclaiming agents is investigated using different analytical tools. Determination of the number average of chain length and the iodine values. The degree of devulcaniztion of the reclaimed GTP gives distinct view for the reclaiming process. The highest performance for the current reclaiming conditions is found to be at 100°C, for 20 minutes using internal mixer plasticorder (Barabender). The tensile strength, of the compounded reclaimed GTP, confirms the performance of the reclaiming agent.
‘Under the radar’: Educators and cyberbullying in schools
Authors: Cassidy Wanda , Brown Karen , Jackson Margaret
Published: September 2012

Educators play an important role in preventing cyberbullying and encouraging positive online behaviour. In this article we report on the educator portion of a study of cyberbullying at two large, technology-rich secondary schools in Canada. We discuss 17 educators’ experiences with cyberbullying, their knowledge of social networking technology, the priority they place on preventing cyberbullying, and the remedies they suggest. Qualitative analyses of taped interview responses to 16 open-ended questions revealed that they were unaware of the extent of cyberbullying among their students and although they saw prevention as a priority, and were able to pose possible solutions, no policies or programs had been implemented, even by the younger teachers, who were more technologically savvy. Nor were the educators interested in learning the results of the student portion of our research, preferring instead that cyberbullying remain under their radar.
Evidence for the need to support adolescents dealing with harassment and cyber-harassment: Prevalence, progression, and impact
Authors: Beran Tanya N. , Rinaldi Christina , Bickham David S. , Rich Michael
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of harassment in high school and into university, and the impact of one particular form of harassment: cyber-harassment. Participants were 1,368 students at one US and two Canadian universities (mean age = 21.1 years, 676 female students). They responded on five-point scales to questions about the frequency and impact of harassment. A total of 33.6% of students stated they had been cyber-harassed and 28.4% had been harassed off-line when in high school. Also, 8.6% were cyber-harassed and 6.4% were harassed off-line while in university. Hierarchical logistic regression analyses show that the type of harassment experienced in high school is associated with the type of harassment experienced in university. Various negative outcomes of cyber-harassment were also identified.
Warning about side effects can increase their occurrence: an experimental model using placebo treatment for sleep difficulty
Authors: Colagiuri Ben , McGuinness Kari , Boakes Robert A , Butow Phyllis N
Published: September 2012

Patients in clinical practice and participants in clinical trials are warned about side effects that may result from their treatment. Such warnings could lead to placebo-induced side effects if they create an expectation of these effects. We used an experimental model to test this possibility. Undergraduates reporting sleep difficulty received placebo treatment disguised as a hypnotic for one week and were warned about either one or four bogus side effects. Placebo treatment significantly improved sleep difficulty relative to a no treatment control group, as indicated by self-report and by objective outcomes. At the end of the treatment week participants who had been warned about a single side effect showed better recall of this effect than those warned about four side effects. Most importantly, participants tended to report experiencing a side effect they had been warned about, with a trend towards a larger effect in participants warned about one side effect. This evidence for placebo-induced side effects may need to be considered when interpreting data on side effects from clinical trials.
A Tutorial Guide About How to Manage a Client-Financed Project
Authors: Clark Gary L. , King Michael E. , Jurn Iksu
Published: September 2012

Today’s marketing instructors are faced with the challenge of improving their students’ soft skills to prepare them for today’s business environment. Numerous authors have noted that client-based/-sponsored projects help students improve the soft skills they need to succeed in the business community. This article provides detailed guidelines on how to implement a specific type of client-based project, (i.e., a client-financed project, CFP). The article also discusses the challenges faced by clients, faculty, and students who participate in a CFP. Finally, clients’ and students’ attitudes about the benefits of participating in a CFP are discussed.
Atrial septal defect closure and de novo migraine: Exclusive ticlopidine efficacy
Authors: Benemei Silvia , Rossi Eleonora , Marcucci Rossella , Giusti Betti , Geppetti Pierangelo
Published: September 2012

Background:

De novo onset or aggravation of migraine has been observed after atrial septal defect closure (ASDC), whereas antiplatelet drugs, such as clopidogrel, used to prevent post-ASDC thromboembolic events, have been associated with migraine amelioration.

Case:

We report the case of a woman who, after ASDC, experienced de novo severe migraine with aura. Whereas use of acetylsalicylic acid or clopidogrel had no effect, ticlopidine use was associated with migraine amelioration. Migraine relapsed after two ticlopidine dechallenges, and disappeared after drug rechallenges.

Conclusion:

A ticlopidine trial could be proposed to patients with migraine which occurs or worsens immediately after ASDC and does not improve with clopidogrel.
The Relation Between Maternal and Child Depression in Mexican American Families
Authors: Corona Marissa , McCarty Carolyn , Cauce Ana Mari , Robins Richard W. , Widaman Keith F. , Conger Rand D.
Published: September 2012

In an effort to better understand possible pathways that lead to a relatively high incidence of depressive symptoms among Mexican American youth, an interpersonal stress model of depression was tested using a community sample of 674 Mexican American mothers and their 5th grade children. Structural equation analyses revealed that maternal depression was positively related to mothers’ interpersonal stress in their relationships. Additionally, maternal poor parenting quality was associated with three child outcomes: lower social competence, higher interpersonal stress, and higher depressive symptoms. Child difficulties with peers, however, were not related to child depression. Overall, evidence suggests that familial factors, rather than peer factors, were related to child depression for these study participants.
Anti–N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) Receptor Encephalitis in a Young Lebanese Girl
Authors: Safadieh Layal , Dabbagh Omar
Published: September 2012

Anti– N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is a recently recognized autoimmune neurologic disorder that presents with severe neuropsychiatric symptoms in previously healthy children. A 4-year-old Lebanese girl presented with new-onset behavioral changes, orofacial dyskinesias, fluctuation in consciousness, inability to walk, and mutism. Antibodies directed against NMDA receptors were detected in the patient’s serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Prompt treatment with a single course of intravenous immunoglobulin resulted in early complete recovery. This is the first case report of a Middle Eastern child affected with this condition.
Sex Offender Registries
Authors: Brewster Mary P. , DeLong Philip A. , Moloney Joseph T.
Published: September 2012

A handful of highly publicized sexual assault cases served as the impetus for the passage of sex offender legislation, culminating in the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act (2006), which called for the registration of convicted sex offenders in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The publicly accessible online registries have been the center of sex offender controversy in recent years, yet few researchers have analyzed the content of the registries. This study examined the content of the registries after the deadline for implementation of the Adam Walsh Act (AWA). An analysis of the 51 online registries was conducted to identify prevalent characteristics, search features, listing profile details, and rates of sex offenders. The most common search features included searching by name, zip code, city or town, county, and address. Nearly all registries also provide disclaimers (98%) and warnings (92%). Thirty registries (58.8%) allowed users to plot an offender’s address through a mapping option. Most sites also provided numerous case-specific characteristics including various personal details about sex offenders such as appearance, specific offense information, victim information, and place of employment. Overall, the sites varied greatly from state to state and many offered additional features not required by the AWA. However, as of December 2011 only 15 states had substantially complied with AWA mandates (National Conference of State Legislatures).
The Feminist Ethnographer’s Dilemma
Authors: Avishai Orit , Gerber Lynne , Randles Jennifer
Published: September 2012

In this article, we use three case studies of conservative field sites to consider the dilemma faced when feminist analytic perspectives clash with observations. We note that feminism can operate as a blinder, limiting our ability to see and interpret empirical realities that do not conform with feminist expectations. Using our research on orthodox Jewish women’s practices of menstrual purity, evangelical ex-gay ministries, and state-sponsored marriage promotion programs as examples, we discuss our shared experience that unreflexive feminist critiques of seemingly antifeminist social practices, groups, and policies can impede our ability to understand how feminism has influenced nonfeminist spaces. We use our cases to reflect upon a tension that informs all progressive social change research: the tension between our political sensibilities and goals and our intellectual mission to produce reliable knowledge. In responding to that tension, we argue that feminist researchers should incorporate institutional reflexivity on feminism itself as part of their ethnographic practice.
Health Disparities in Later Life
Authors: Sharma Andy
Published: September 2012

Objective: This article examines health disparities between older Blacks/Whites by recognizing the importance of health services utilization. Although previous studies have examined health and utilization independently, this is among the first to (a) model its endogenous relation with utilization, and (b) use a continuous measure for health. Data: Household Component files from Medical Expenditures Panel Survey (MEPS) from 2004 and 2005, with 1,369 observations (1,169 for White and 200 for Black) between the ages of 61-69. Methods: The methods employed are two-equation modeling where Medicare eligibility functions as the identification criterion and also as an exogenous shock. Results: The results show older Blacks continue to remain in poorer health despite access to care and insurance status. The author shows underutilization accounts for some of this observed disparity and offers novel approaches to overcome this issue. Conclusion: With the baby-boom cohort approaching retirement, this area of research is timely. This work is also practical because the Department of Health and Human Services has launched various projects examining health care issues for Americans. One major project, Healthy People 2010, provides a “framework for prevention for the Nation [and is] designed to identify the most significant preventable threats to health and to establish national goals to reduce these threats” ( http://www.healthypeople.gov/About/ ). Of the 28 areas, this article complements objectives relating to (a) disability and secondary conditions, and (b) access to quality health services. This article also supports Healthy People 2020, which sets a high priority on access to health care (one of 12 topic areas) and categorizes health disparities as part of the Leading Health Indicators Framework.
Gender and Racial Disparities in Driving Cessation Among Older Adults
Authors: Choi Moon , Mezuk Briana , Lohman Matthew C. , Edwards Jerri D. , Rebok George W.
Published: September 2012

Objectives: To longitudinally examine gender and racial disparities in driving cessation among older adults. Methods: Data came from the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) Study ( N = 1,789). Logistic generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to identify predictors of driving cessation; stratified analysis and interaction terms were used to determine whether factors differed by gender and race. Results: Two hundred and five (11.5%) participants stopped driving over the study period. Education was associated with increased risk of cessation for men (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.10 to 1.78), but decreased risk for women (AOR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.82-0.98). Being married was associated with lower risk of cessation for men (AOR = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.06-0.56) but was unrelated to cessation for women (AOR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.56-1.80). Results were consistent with the hypothesis that racial disparities in cessation widen with increasing age. Discussion: Factors predictive of driving cessation vary by gender. Racial disparities in cessation are wider at older ages. Transportation policies and programs should account for social determinants and aim to address social disparities in driving mobility among older adults.
An enhanced multi-point dynamics methodology for collision and contact problem
Authors: Yu Hua-Nan , Zhao Jing-Shan , Chu Fu-Lei
Published: September 2012

The general methodologies for collision and contact problems of a multibody system often artificially divide the movements of the objects into the rigid displacements and contact deformations. Both the parts of the movements are often analyzed independently, which should be simultaneously processed in nature. Therefore, this article proposes an enhanced methodology to unify the rigid displacements and the contact elastic deformations of a collision system. The rigid displacements accompanying flexible deformations in collision are expressed as the displacements of a number of equivalent points of the colliding bodies. This method converts the collision problem into the collisions between the points within a multi-point system, and can therefore precisely model the real contact forces and deformations of the system. Numerical simulations for the collision-contact problems are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.
Numerical modeling of diffuse transverse cracks and induced delamination using cohesive elements
Authors: Jalalvand Meisam , Hosseini-Toudeshky Hossein , Mohammadi Bijan
Published: September 2012

This article is devoted to the modeling of spread kind of damages such as matrix cracking and induced delamination in symmetric and asymmetric cross-ply laminates of composite materials using cohesive elements. For matrix crack modeling, parallel rows of cohesive elements are used between every row of 2D elements in 90° layers. Delamination is also modeled by cohesive elements at the 90°/0° interface. Since matrix cracking is a diffuse kind of damage mechanism, application of cohesive elements is not straightforward, and special techniques are necessary to resolve the modeling difficulties. For this purpose, two techniques of “bisecting” and “random distribution of strength of cohesive elements” are proposed here. Both techniques are applied to various symmetric laminates of [0/903]s and [90n/0]s (n = 1 to 3). The predicted stiffness and damage progresses from both techniques are in good agreement with the experimental results. Then, asymmetric cross-ply laminates of [90n/0] (n = 1 to 3) are analyzed to show the capability of this method in progressive damage analyses. The proposed method is less restricted in comparison with available micromechanical methods and is able to predict damage initiation, propagation and damage-mode transition for any symmetric and asymmetric cross-ply sequence. Therefore, this method can be used for development of “in-plane damage” of constitutive laws especially when specimens are subjected to complex loading and boundary conditions.
Parental Decision Making for Children With Cancer at the End of Life
Authors: Heinze Katherine E. , Nolan Marie T.
Published: September 2012

Parents of pediatric oncology patients are faced with difficult decisions when their child reaches the end of life. For health care providers to provide optimal care, they must understand parents’ perspectives and preferences in end-of-life decision making. Therefore, this article provides a systematic review of the literature on the end-of-life decision making of parents of children with cancer as well as recommendations for practice and future research. Parents participated in surveys, focus groups, participant observation, and interviews to help researchers understand the expectations, hopes, fears, and values that guide their decision making. Common themes were patient–provider communication, extending time, and understanding prognosis.
Simulating the Camp David Negotiations
Authors: McMahon Sean F. , Miller Chris
Published: September 2012

This article reflects critically on simulations. Building on the authors’ experience simulating the Palestinian-Israeli-American Camp David negotiations of 2000, they argue that simulations are useful pedagogical tools that encourage creative—but not critical—thinking and constructivist learning. However, they can also have the deleterious effect of reproducing unequal power relations in the classroom. The authors develop this argument in five stages: They distinguish between problem solving and critical theory and define critical thinking—something not done by the simulation orthodoxy. They describe the Camp David simulation. This is their contribution to the relatively small corpus of literature on simulating Palestinian-Israeli relations. They review the constructivist learning and peer teaching accomplished through their simulation. This section is notable because it is authored by a graduate student who participated in the simulation as a meaning maker. They review the manner in which simulations promote creative, not critical, thinking, and reproduce asymmetrical power relations. They reflect on the overall utility of simulating the Camp David negotiations in the classroom.
The Link Between Preschoolers’ Phonological Awareness and Mothers’ Book-Reading and Reminiscing Practices in Low-Income Families
Authors: Leyva Diana , Sparks Alison , Reese Elaine
Published: September 2012

The relation between preschoolers’ phonological awareness and the frequency and quality of parents’ book-reading and reminiscing practices were examined in 54 low-income and ethnically diverse families. Children’s phonological awareness was assessed at the beginning and end of preschool. Mothers reported the frequency with which they read books and reminisced with their children at the beginning of preschool using a questionnaire. They were also videotaped while reading a book and talking about a past event with their preschoolers. The quality of book-reading and reminiscing practices was measured via these videotapes by the number of open-ended questions mothers asked to extend the reading or conversation. Children’s receptive and expressive vocabulary skills were assessed at the beginning of preschool as a control variable. Quality of reminiscing, but not book-reading practices, predicted preschoolers’ phonological awareness skills at the end of preschool, even after controlling for beginning-of-preschool phonological and vocabulary skills and demographic variables. Reported frequency of book-reading and reminiscing practices bore no relation to phonological awareness skills. The link between quality of reminiscing practices and phonological awareness deserves further exploration, but might be explained by indirect links with other linguistic and cognitive skills.
Methamphetamine use and HIV in relation to social cognition
Authors: Homer Bruce D , Halkitis Perry N , Moeller Robert W , Solomon Todd M
Published: September 2012

The relation of methamphetamine abuse and HIV infection to social cognition ( Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task and Faux Pas Recognition Task) was examined in men who have sex with men ( N = 56): Of the methamphetamine users ( n = 29), 19 were identified as HIV positive, and of the nonusers ( n = 27), 13 were identified as HIV positive. Both methamphetamine use and HIV were associated with impaired performance on the Eyes Task ( p < .05). Methamphetamine use was also associated with impaired performance on the Faux Pas Task ( p < .05). These results link impaired social cognition to methamphetamine abuse and HIV infection.
The effects of a poster in informing and empowering patients in infection prevention and control
Authors: Hart Rebecca
Published: September 2012

Finding effective ways to change healthcare workers’ (HCWs) behaviour while informing and empowering patients is challenging. Providing patient information at critical points of care delivery may empower them to address lapses and change HCWs’ behaviour. In this study, posters detailing standards required for five high impact interventions were displayed in patients’ rooms. Research groups were: ‘pre-poster’ (months 1–2; n=142 patients); ‘poster’ (months 3–4; n=59); ‘no-poster’ (months 3–4; n=52); and ‘no-poster’ (months 5–6; n=104). Poster effectiveness was evaluated by a quantitative questionnaire ( n=357). Patients were asked if they identified lapses in five interventions by HCWs and whether patients had addressed them. Patient interviews ( n=10 per group) explored patients’ knowledge of interventions. Only patients with posters addressed lapses. Poster presence was associated with significant increase in noticing lapses in the first two weeks but decreased incidence in noticing lapses in weeks 3–8. There was significant aversion to reporting doctors’ lapses. Interviews showed that posters significantly increased respondents’ knowledge, suggesting that lapses noticed in weeks 1–2 and not noticed in weeks 3–8 by the ‘poster’ group were genuine lapses followed by a change in HCWs’ behaviour. HCW self-interest in avoiding complaints from patients coincides with the aim of the posters in improving standards.
Exploiting interprofessional learning to reduce avoidable healthcare associated infections: project development and outcomes of the pilot event in an acute NHS foundation trust
Authors: Hutchinson Anne Louise , Turnbull Lindy , Carney Jean
Published: September 2012

This paper reflects upon the development of an interprofessional education project and the learning derived from the pilot event, which focused upon interprofessional learning in action and its potential to enable collaborative working to reduce avoidable healthcare associated infections in an acute NHS foundation trust.
Clinical spectrum and severity of hemolytic anemia in glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase–deficient children receiving dapsone
Authors: Pamba Allan , Richardson Naomi D. , Carter Nick , Duparc Stephan , Premji Zul , Tiono Alfred B. , Luzzatto Lucio
Published: September 2012

Drug-induced acute hemolytic anemia led to the discovery of G6PD deficiency. However, most clinical data are from isolated case reports. In 2 clinical trials of antimalarial preparations containing dapsone (4,4′-diaminodiphenylsulfone; 2.5 mg/kg once daily for 3 days), 95 G6PD-deficient hemizygous boys, 24 G6PD-deficient homozygous girls, and 200 girls heterozygous for G6PD deficiency received this agent. In the first 2 groups, there was a maximum decrease in hemoglobin averaging −2.64 g/dL (range −6.70 to +0.30 g/dL), which was significantly greater than for the comparator group receiving artemether-lumefantrine (adjusted difference −1.46 g/dL; 95% confidence interval −1.76, −1.15). Hemoglobin concentrations were decreased by ≥ 40% versus pretreatment in 24/119 (20.2%) of the G6PD-deficient children; 13/119 (10.9%) required blood transfusion. In the heterozygous girls, the mean maximum decrease in hemoglobin was −1.83 g/dL (range +0.90 to −5.20 g/dL); 1 in 200 (0.5%) required blood transfusion. All children eventually recovered. All the G6PD-deficient children had the G6PD A− variant, ie, mutations V68M and N126D. Drug-induced acute hemolytic anemia in G6PD A− subjects can be life-threatening, depending on the nature and dosage of the drug trigger. Therefore, contrary to current perception, in clinical terms the A− type of G6PD deficiency cannot be regarded as mild. This study is registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00344006 and NCT00371735.
Use of 111-Indium–labeled autologous eosinophils to establish the in vivo kinetics of human eosinophils in healthy subjects
Authors: Farahi Neda , Singh Nanak R. , Heard Sarah , Loutsios Chrystalla , Summers Charlotte , Solanki Chandra K. , Solanki Kishor , Balan Kottekkattu K. , Ruparelia Prina , Peters A. Michael , Condliffe Alison M. , Chilvers Edwin R.
Published: September 2012

Eosinophils are the major cellular effectors of allergic inflammation and represent an important therapeutic target. Although the genesis and activation of eosinophils have been extensively explored, little is known about their intravascular kinetics or physiological fate. This study was designed to determine the intravascular life span of eosinophils, their partitioning between circulating and marginated pools, and sites of disposal in healthy persons. Using autologous, minimally manipulated 111-Indium–labeled leukocytes with blood sampling, we measured the eosinophil intravascular residence time as 25.2 hours (compared with 10.3 hours for neutrophils) and demonstrated a substantial marginated eosinophil pool. γ camera imaging studies using purified eosinophils demonstrated initial retention in the lungs, with early redistribution to the liver and spleen, and evidence of recirculation from a hepatic pool. This work provides the first in vivo measurements of eosinophil kinetics in healthy volunteers and shows that 111-Indium–labeled eosinophils can be used to monitor the fate of eosinophils noninvasively.