bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Hemodynamically Significant Coronary Artery Disease Using Troponin I in Hemodialysis Patients Presenting with Chest Pain: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Badero Olurotimi J. , Salifu Moro O.
Published: August 2009

Objectives: Controversy exists regarding utility of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in predicting significant coronary artery disease (CAD) in hemodialysis (HD) patients with chest pain and no acute ischemia on electrocardiogram (non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction, non-STEMI). We sought to determine if cTnI elevation predicts significant CAD (>70% stenosis) in these patients. Methods: Ninety patients with non-STEMI referred for cardiac catheterization were included, divided equally into HD and non-HD groups. Results: Mean age and baseline characteristics were not significantly different between groups, except for left ventricular hypertrophy which was higher in HD patients (56 vs. 27%, p = 0.012). Initial cTnI correlated with obstructive CAD and was stratified into <0.3 and >0.3 ng/ml. By logistic regression, cTnI >0.3 ng/ml was not predictive of CAD in HD patients [odds ratio = 0.87 (95% CI 0.19–4.0), p = 0.8], while non-HD patients had an increased risk of CAD if first cTnI was >0.3 ng/ml [odds ratio = 1.461 (95% CI 1.01–2.11), p = 0.04] as expected. Sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values of cTnI in predicting obstructive CAD were better in non-HD patients. Conclusion: cTnI in these patients had no predictive value for obstructive CAD. This contrasts with the general population, suggesting a higher index of suspicion for high-grade CAD irrespective of cTnI levels in HD patients.
Predictive Effects of Different Clinical Balance Measures and the Fear of Falling on Falls in Postmenopausal Women Aged 50 Years and Over
Authors: Ersoy Yuksel , MacWalter Ronald S. , Durmus Bekir , Altay Zuhal E. , Baysal Ozlem
Published: August 2009

Background: Falls among the elderly are associated with a high morbidity and mortality and can involve high-cost medical interventions. The risk of falls often remains undiagnosed until an episode occurs but if the risk is high, preventative measures could be introduced. Objectives: This 6-month prospective study investigated whether different postural clinical measures and fear of falling (FOF) itself can predict future falls in postmenopausal women aged ≥50 years. Methods: 125 postmenopausal women were studied comparing the outcome of fallers vs. non-fallers within the 6-month follow-up study period. Clinical measures, history of falls and FOF data were determined at baseline and the number of falls and FOF were ascertained at the final visit or by telephone interview at 6 months. Results: Of the clinical measures investigated, the Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) >26 points (OR = 7.28, per additional point, 95% CI 2.25–23.61, p = 0.001) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) ≤52 points (OR = 4.77, per additional point, 95% CI = 1.15–19.82, p = 0.031) performed best in prediction of the future falls. Conclusions: Postmenopausal women aged ≥50 years who had FES-I scores >26 points and BBS ≤52 points should be examined for risk factors of future falls and offered preventative measures.
Frailty and 10-Year Mortality in Community-Living Mexican American Older Adults
Authors: Graham James E. , Snih Soham Al , Berges Ivonne M. , Ray Laura A. , Markides Kyriakos S. , Ottenbacher Kenneth J.
Published: August 2009

Background: The older Hispanic population of the United States is growing rapidly. Hispanic older adults have relatively high-risk profiles for increased morbidity and disability, yet little is known about how the construct of frailty is related to health trajectories in this population. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between frailty and 10-year mortality in older community-dwelling Mexican Americans. Methods: Data were from the Hispanic Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly and included 1,996 Mexican Americans, aged 65 and older, living in the southwestern US. Primary measures included mortality and a 5-item frailty index comprised of weight loss, exhaustion, walking speed, grip strength, and physical activity. Results: Mean baseline age was 74.5 years (SD 6.1) and 58.5% were women. Baseline frailty assessments yielded the following distribution: 44.9% non-frail, 47.3% pre-frail, and 7.8% frail. Overall, 892 (44.7%) participants died during the 10-year study period. Hazard ratios (HR), adjusted for sociodemographic, health, and medical factors, demonstrated increased odds for mortality in the pre-frail (HR = 1.25, 95% confidence interval, CI95%, 1.07–1.46) and frail (HR = 1.81, CI95% 1.41–2.31) groups compared to the non-frail cohort. Conclusion: The 5-item frailty index differentiated odds of 10-year mortality in older community-dwelling Mexican Americans. This clinical index has the potential to identify older minorities at risk for poor health outcomes and mortality.
Psychological, Cognitive and Quality of Life Features in the Elderly with Chronic Headache
Authors: Uthaikhup Sureeporn , Sterling Michele , Jull Gwendolen
Published: August 2009

Chronic headache is common in the elderly, but there is little specific research on the impact on quality of life of headache and beliefs about pain in this age group. This study investigated the influence of headache type as well as headache frequency (≥15 headache days/month vs. <15 headache days/month) on quality of life and determined the relationships between elder’s well-being, pain beliefs and related headache features including commonly reported neck pain. 118 headache subjects and 44 non-headache controls, aged 60–75 years, were recruited from the community. Subjects completed a headache questionnaire for classification purposes, the SF-36, the Geriatric Depression Scale-short form (GDS-S), the Survey of Pain Attitudes (SOPA-35) and the Neck Disability Index (NDI). The results revealed that elders with headache compared to the control group scored lower on most SF-36 domains, higher on the GDS-S (p < 0.05) and comparably on the SOPA-35 (p > 0.05), noting that the GDS score was below the threshold value for depression. These measures were not different between the headache types but were influenced by headache frequency. Subjects with headaches ≥15 days/month scored lowest on SF-36 domains and highest on GDS-S questionnaire compared to those with headache <15 days/month and controls (all p < 0.05). The mean NDI score in the headache subjects indicated the presence of mild to moderate neck pain and disability. There were no strong relationships between well-being and headache frequency, intensity and length of headache history. The NDI score had the greatest influence on physical well-being and GDS-S score on mental well-being (p < 0.001). The results suggest that frequency of headache has an impact on health-related quality of life in elders. Notably, the level of neck pain and disability is an important factor influencing well-being and may warrant attention in the management of elders with chronic headache.
The Effect of Oxygen Tension on the Long-Term Osteogenic Differentiation and MMP/TIMP Expression of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Raheja Leah F. , Genetos Damian C. , Yellowley Clare E.
Published: August 2009

The use of mesenchymal stem cells in tissue engineering to augment the repair of a variety of tissues including bone is a rapidly growing and exciting field. Although oxygen tension is a powerful stimulus for cells both in vitro and in vivo, the oxygen environment in which such cells would undergo differentiation is commonly overlooked. We examined the effect of long-term (21-days) low oxygen tension (1, 2 and 5%) on the osteogenic differentiation and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)/tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP) expression of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Our data suggest that MSCs undergo osteoblastic differentiation most rapidly under 21% oxygen while oxygen tensions below 5% have an inhibitory effect. Interestingly, there was not a statistically significant difference in osteogenic markers between 5 and 21% oxygen. In addition, our data suggest that oxygen tension affects the expression of individual MMP and TIMPs differently. Low oxygen tension has an inhibitory effect on MMP-13 and TIMP-1 expression, which are involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and potentially vascular invasion. In contrast, MMP-2, a metalloproteinase involved in cell migration was not affected by oxygen tension. This data suggests that 21% oxygen may be beneficial for rapid osteogenic differentiation as would be required for the production of individual patient ex vivo constructs. In addition, this has important in vivo implications relating to the importance of early vascularization of sites of orthopedic injury. By augmenting the neovascularization process, it may be possible to facilitate more rapid differentiation of progenitors and thus the repair process.
Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients after Hospitalization for Acute Exacerbation
Authors: Osthoff Mirjam , Leuppi Jörg D.
Published: August 2009

The objective of this review is to sum up the literature regarding the management of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) after hospitalization for an acute exacerbation. Guidelines recommend a follow-up 4–6 weeks after hospitalization to assess coping strategies, inhaler technique, the need for long-term oxygen therapy and the measurement of FEV1. This review discusses the follow-up of patients with exacerbations of COPD, the use and value of spirometry in their further management, the potential benefit of home monitoring, the value of long-term oxygen therapy, the value of self-management programs including the use of action plans, the potential benefit of noninvasive ventilation as well as the value of early rehabilitation. There is not enough literature to allow specific recommendations and to define components of a care plan after hospitalization for an acute exacerbation; however, early rehabilitation should be included.
Small Airway Remodeling in Idiopathic Interstitial Pneumonias: A Pathological Study
Authors: Figueira de Mello George Castro , Ribeiro Carvalho Carlos Roberto , Adib Kairalla Ronaldo , Nascimento Saldiva Paulo Hilário , Fernezlian Sandra , Ferraz Silva Luiz Fernando , Dolhnikoff Marisa , Mauad Thais
Published: August 2009

Background: Few studies have addressed small airway (SA) histopathological changes and their possible role in the remodeling process in idiopathic interstitial pneumonias. Objectives: To study morphological, morphometrical and immunohistochemical features of SA in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (usual interstitial pneumonia, UIP) and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP). Methods: We analyzed SA pathology in lung biopsies from 29 patients with UIP and 8 with NSIP. Biopsies were compared with lung tissue from 13 patients with constrictive bronchiolitis (CB) as positive controls and 10 normal autopsied control lungs. We semi-quantitatively analyzed SA structure, inflammation, architectural features and the bronchiolar epithelial immunohistochemical expression of TGF-β, MMP-2, 7, 9, and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-1, 2). Results: Compared to controls, patients with UIP, NSIP and CB presented increased bronchiolar inflammation, peribronchiolar inflammation and fibrosis and decreased luminal areas. UIP patients had thicker walls due to an increase in most airway compartments. NSIP patients presented increased epithelial areas, whereas patients with CB had larger inner wall areas. All of the groups studied presented increased bronchiolar expression of MMP-7 and MMP-9, compared to the controls. Conclusion: We conclude that SAs are pathologically altered and may take part in the lung-remodeling process in idiopathic interstitial pneumonias.
Long-Term Prognosis in an ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Population Treated With Routine Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Pedersen Sune , Galatius Soren , Mogelvang Rasmus , Davidsen Ulla , Galloe Anders , Abildstrom Steen Z. , Abildgaard Ulrik , Hansen Peter Riis , Bech Jan , Iversen Allan , Jorgensen Erik , Kelbaek Henning , Saunamaki Kari , Madsen Jan Kyst , Jensen Jan Skov
Published: August 2009

Background—

We sought to describe the long-term prognosis after routine primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) in a contemporary consecutive population of patients with presumed ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, compare it with similar results from the landmark DANAMI-2 trial, and to identify a possible impact of time of presentation and referral pattern.

Methods and Results—

Long-term prognosis in 1019 presumed ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients, treated according to modern routine pPCI during the year 2004, was analyzed and compared with similar data from the DANAMI-2 trial. Furthermore, we analyzed the impact of patient presentation to the angioplasty center during “off hours” (4
pm
to 8
am
plus weekends and holidays) and the impact of being referred from noninvasive hospitals. At 3 years, 20.4% in the routinely treated population versus 19.6% in the DANAMI-2 trial reached the combined end point of death, reinfarction, or stroke (
P
=0.68), whereas the all-cause mortality was 13.0% and 13.7%, respectively (
P
=0.65). Patients admitted during off hours had the same risk of reaching the combined end point of death, reinfarction, or stroke compared with patients admitted during office hours (hazards ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.8 to 1.5;
P
=0.81). Door-to-balloon times of less than 90 minutes were achieved in 60% among patients admitted directly to an invasive center but only in 40% among transferred patients (
P
<0.001). Despite this difference, no difference in unadjusted or adjusted long-term prognosis was found between the 2 groups.

Conclusions—

This study shows that ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients treated with contemporary routine pPCI achieve a similar long-term prognosis as patients in the landmark randomized pPCI trial (DANAMI-2). Furthermore, the long-term prognosis was the same regardless of whether the pPCI was performed during off hours or office hours. Thus, pPCI including transportation of patients from noninvasive centers can be applied successfully in a real-life population.
Shari'ah Courts and Shari'ah Records: The Application of Islamic Law in the Ottoman State
Authors: Akgündüz Ahmed
Published: August 2009

This essay addresses the Shari'ah courts and Shari'ah records within the broader framework of the application of Islamic law in the Ottoman state. We first explore historical developments before and after Tanzimat as well as a number of developments in the legal guidelines for the preservation of the Shari'ah records. A concise summary is given of the Shari'ah courts, qadis, and the judiciary, including the shaikhu islam and qadaskar. Section two reviews the Shari'ah records, with special attention to the sijil, mahdar, sakk, and hujjah deeds. This section also examines judicial decrees, including their definition, arrangement, qualities, types and models. Linked to this is a discussion of a number of interesting documents in the Shari'ah courts and the Shari'ah records, including ma'ruz and murasalah, as well as documents from other offices that are registered in the records.
Descriptive and prescriptive features of gender stereotyping. Relationships among its components
Authors: López-Sáez Mercedes , Lisbona Ana
Published: August 2009

This paper explores the relation between gender stereotyping in traits and roles and sociodemographic variables, as well as the relation between the descriptive and prescriptive characteristics of such traits and roles. In Study 1, a representative national sample of 1255 participants was used. The results showed that trait stereotyping did not vary among participants, whereas role stereotyping did vary as a function of gender (women stereotyped less) age (young people stereotyped less) and educational level (people with a high level stereotyped less). The relation between trait stereotyping (descriptive) and role stereotyping (prescriptive) is very low. Study 2 was carried out to verify mainly the relation between the prescriptive and descriptive aspects of a single component: traits. The participants were 96 professional women. In this study, a weak relation was found between the descriptive and the prescriptive aspects of trait stereotyping, and a strong relation between the prescriptive aspects of traits and roles. These results are coherent with the assumption that the descriptive and prescriptive aspects of gender stereotyping are independent. In both studies, correlations were observed indicating that people who tend to stereotype in instrumental traits also maintain more stereotyped beliefs about the prescriptive trait and role aspects.
Efectos de las intenciones de implementación en las intervenciones sobre la salud
Authors: Schweiger-Gallo Inge , de Miguel Jesús , Rodríguez-Monter Miryam , Álvaro José-Luis , Gollwitzer Peter M.
Published: August 2009

En la última década, las intenciones de implementación han resultado ser estrategias eficaces de autorregulación en multitud de estudios (Gollwitzer y Sheeran, 2006). En este artículo revisaremos su eficacia en el campo de la Salud. Así, las intenciones de implementación han sido útiles en la promoción de conductas saludables (por ejemplo, facilitación de pautas de dieta sana o realización de ejercicio físico), el seguimiento de metas no placenteras (auto-exploraciones o mediciones del nivel de glucosa en sangre, por ejemplo), en la facilitación del control de situaciones y circunstancias indeseadas, así como de las acciones encaminadas hacia una meta en aquellas poblaciones críticas (esquizofrénicos, niños con trastorno por déficit de atención con hiperactividad, etc.) que tienen dificultades en el control de la acción. Que la efectividad de las intenciones de implementación no está además acompañada de rigidez y no produce efectos de rebote avala la importancia de esta estrategia de autorregulación. Se discuten las limitaciones de las intenciones de implementación, así como futuras intervenciones mediante esta estrategia.
Inhibition as an adaptive mechanism in memory-based choices
Authors: Iglesias-Parro Sergio , Gómez-Ariza Carlos J. , Arias Ana V.
Published: August 2009

This study examines the role of inhibitory processes in memory-based choices. In two experiments, the effects of the competitive nature of memory retrieval as well as the valence of the to-be-retrieved items on a recall and a choice task are examined by using the retrieval practice paradigm. The results show a parallel pattern for both tasks. Specifically, neither forgetting nor choice bias were found in the non-competitive retrieval condition, for both positive and negative information. Nevertheless, a retrieval-induced forgetting and a choice bias effect were found in the competitive retrieval condition, although only for positive information. Interestingly, this negativity effect disappeared when positive information was excluded from to-be-learned material. These findings suggest the way in which the lasting consequences of inhibition affect choice processes.
Influence of Anomalous Warmer Winter on Statistics of Measured Winter Precipitation Data
Authors: Yamaguchi Satoru , Nakai Sento , Iwamoto Katsushi , Sato Atsushi
Published: August 2009

The winter of 2006/07 in Japan was the warmest in more than 100 years. To evaluate the effects of such an anomalous warmer winter on measured winter precipitation data, gauge-measured precipitation amounts from an area near the Japan Sea coast were compared with values corrected to account for undercatch errors due to the effect of wind. The measured data in this area of Japan are usually 60%–90% of the corrected winter precipitation because of large systematic errors in solid precipitation measurements. However, the measured precipitation for the winter of 2006/07 was much closer to the corrected precipitation because more precipitation than usual fell as rain rather than as snow. Series of precipitation data for 30 winters were corrected by accounting for undercatch errors, and the corrected data were compared with measured data. Both datasets showed the similar tendency that the warmer the winter is, the smaller the winter precipitation is. However, the ratio of the negative relationship between winter precipitation and mean winter temperature, which was calculated using corrected winter precipitation, is 2 times that calculated using measured winter precipitation data. These results suggest the possibility that measured winter precipitation data may show fictitious changes because of changes in the form of precipitation, even though the actual amount may not have changed. Moreover, statistical studies that fail to consider systematic errors in precipitation measurements may possibly result in misinterpretations of the tendency and fluctuation of winter precipitation.
Statistical Downscaling Forecasts for Winter Monsoon Precipitation in Malaysia Using Multimodel Output Variables
Authors: Juneng Liew , Tangang Fredolin T. , Kang Hongwen , Lee Woo-Jin , Seng Yap Kok
Published: August 2009

This paper compares the skills of four different forecasting approaches in predicting the 1-month lead time of the Malaysian winter season precipitation. Two of the approaches are based on statistical downscaling techniques of multimodel ensembles (MME). The third one is the ensemble of raw GCM forecast without any downscaling, whereas the fourth approach, which provides a baseline comparison, is a purely statistical forecast based solely on the preceding sea surface temperature anomaly. The first multimodel statistical downscaling method was developed by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Climate Center (APCC) team, whereas the second is based on the canonical correlation analysis (CCA) technique using the same predictor variables. For the multimodel downscaling ensemble, eight variables from seven operational GCMs are used as predictors with the hindcast forecast data spanning a period of 21 yr from 1983/84 to 2003/04. The raw GCM forecast ensemble tends to have higher skills than the baseline skills of the purely statistical forecast that relates the dominant modes of observed sea surface temperature variability to precipitation. However, the downscaled MME forecasts have higher skills than the raw GCM products. In particular, the model developed by APCC showed significant improvement over the peninsular Malaysia region. This is attributed to the model’s ability to capture regional and large-scale predictor signatures from which the additional skills originated. Overall, the results showed that the appropriate downscaling technique and ensemble of various GCM forecasts could result in some skill enhancement, particularly over peninsular Malaysia, where other models tend to have lower or no skills.
The Maintenance of the Relative Humidity of the Subtropical Free Troposphere
Authors: Couhert Alexandre , Schneider Tapio , Li Juilin , Waliser Duane E. , Tompkins Adrian M.
Published: August 2009

The relative importance of different processes in the water vapor balance of the troposphere is assessed, using high-resolution hindcast data from the ECMWF Integrated Forecast System (IFS) for December–February 1998/99 interpolated to isentropic coordinates. The focus is on elucidating the processes that maintain the relative humidity of the subtropical free troposphere. The dominant drying process in the subtropical free troposphere is cross-isentropic subsidence driven by radiative cooling. In some subtropical regions [e.g., over continents in the Southern (summer) Hemisphere and over western portions of ocean basins in the Northern (winter) Hemisphere], drying by radiative subsidence is partially offset or overcompensated by moistening by cross-isentropic dynamic transport of water vapor from the surface upward (e.g., in convection). Any resultant net drying or moistening of the subtropical free troposphere by cross-isentropic motions is regionally primarily balanced by isentropic mean and eddy transport of water vapor from moister into drier regions. Isentropic transport redistributes water vapor within the subtropics and moderates relative humidity contrasts; however, it does not consistently lead to a substantial net import or export of water vapor into or out of the subtropics.
Changes in Climate at High Southern Latitudes: A Unique Daily Record at Orcadas Spanning 1903–2008
Authors: Zazulie Natalia , Rusticucci Matilde , Solomon Susan
Published: August 2009

The climate observations at Orcadas represent the only southern high-latitude site where data span more than a century, and its daily measurements are presented for the first time in this paper. Although limited to a single station, the observed warming trends are among the largest found anywhere on the earth, facilitating the study of changes in extreme temperatures as well as averages. Factors that may influence Antarctic climate include natural variability; changes in greenhouse gases; and, since about the mid-1970s, the development of the ozone hole. The seasonality of observed warming and its temporal evolution during the century are both key for interpretations of Antarctic climate change. No statistically significant climate trends are observed at Orcadas from 1903 to 1950. However, statistically significant warming is evident at Orcadas throughout all four seasons of the year since 1950. Particularly in austral fall and winter, the warming of the cold extremes (coldest 5% and 10% of days) substantially exceeds the warming of the mean or of the warmest days, providing a key indicator for cold season Antarctic climate change studies. Trends in the summer season means and extremes since 1970 are approximately twice as large as those observed earlier, supporting suggestions of additional regional warming in that season because of the effects of ozone depletion on the circulation. Further, in the spring and summer seasons, significant mean warming also occurred prior to the development of the Antarctic ozone hole (i.e., 1950–70), supporting an important role for processes other than ozone depletion, such as greenhouse gas increases, for the climate changes.
Characterizing Subdiurnal Extreme Precipitation in the Midwestern United States
Authors: Hitchens Nathan M. , Trapp Robert J. , Baldwin Michael E. , Gluhovsky Alexander
Published: August 2009

This research establishes a methodology to quantify the characteristics of convective cloud systems that produce subdiurnal extreme precipitation. Subdiurnal extreme precipitation events are identified by examining hourly precipitation data from 48 rain gauges in the midwestern United States during the period 1956–2005. Time series of precipitation accumulations for 6-h periods are fitted to the generalized Pareto distribution to determine the 10-yr return levels for the stations. An extreme precipitation event is one in which precipitation exceeds the 10-yr return level over a 6-h period. Return levels in the Midwest vary between 54 and 93 mm for 6-h events. Most of the precipitation contributing to these events falls within 1–2 h. Characteristics of the precipitating systems responsible for the extremes are derived from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction stage II and stage IV multisensor precipitation data. The precipitating systems are treated as objects that are identified using an automated procedure. Characteristics considered include object size and the precipitation mean, variance, and maximum within each object. For example, object sizes vary between 96 and 34 480 km2, suggesting that a wide variety of convective precipitating systems can produce subdiurnal extreme precipitation.
Assessment of Drought due to Historic Climate Variability and Projected Future Climate Change in the Midwestern United States
Authors: Mishra Vimal , Cherkauer Keith A. , Shukla Shraddhanand
Published: August 2009

Understanding the occurrence and variability of drought events in historic and projected future climate is essential to managing natural resources and setting policy. The Midwest region is a key contributor in corn and soybean production, and the occurrence of droughts may affect both quantity and quality of these crops. Soil moisture observations play an essential role in understanding the severity and persistence of drought. Considering the scarcity of the long-term soil moisture datasets, soil moisture observations in Illinois have been one of the best datasets for studies of soil moisture. In the present study, the authors use the existing observational dataset and then reconstruct long-term historic time series (1916–2007) of soil moisture data using a land surface model to study the effects of historic climate variability and projected future climate change on regional-scale (Illinois and Indiana) drought. The objectives of this study are to (i) estimate changes and trends associated with climate variables in historic climate variability (1916–2007) and in projected future climate change (2009–99) and (ii) identify regional-scale droughts and associated severity, areal extent, and temporal extent under historic and projected future climate using reconstructed soil moisture data and gridded climatology for the period 1916–2007 using the Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC) model. The authors reconstructed the soil moisture for a long-term (1916–2007) historic time series using the VIC model, which was calibrated for monthly streamflow and soil moisture at eight U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gauge stations and Illinois Climate Network’s (ICN) soil moisture stations, respectively, and then it was evaluated for soil moisture, persistence of soil moisture, and soil temperature and heat fluxes. After calibration and evaluation, the VIC model was implemented for historic (1916–2007) and projected future climate (2009–99) periods across the study domain. The nonparametric Mann–Kendall test was used to estimate trends using the gridded climatology of precipitation and air temperature variables. Trends were also estimated for annual anomalies of soil moisture variables, snow water equivalent, and total runoff using a long-term time series of the historic period. Results indicate that precipitation, minimum air temperature, total column soil moisture, and runoff have experienced upward trends, whereas maximum air temperature, frozen soil moisture, and snow water equivalent experienced downward trends. Furthermore, the decreasing trends were significant for the frozen soil moisture in the study domain. The results demonstrate that retrospective drought periods and their severity were reconstructed using model-simulated data. Results also indicate that the study region is experiencing reduced extreme and exceptional droughts with lesser areal extent in recent decades.
Outcome of Ilio-Popliteal Grafting for Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: McCallum Iain J. D. , Al Samaraee Ahmad , McCaslin James E. , Ashour Hamdi , Mudawi Ahmed
Published: August 2009

Objective: Assess outcomes of ilio-politeal grafting for complex ilio-femoral atherosclerotic disease. Design: Retrospective review of patients undergoing iliopopliteal grafting between January 1998 and January 2007. Methods: Patients were identified from our unit database. Case notes and radiology were retrieved. Data were extracted and entered into the database for analysis. Results: 19 grafts were undertaken in 19 patients. Primary graft patency was 45% at 1 year (95% CI, 22% - 68%). Secondary graft patency was 82.5% at one year (95% CI, 64% - 100%). 25 subsequent surgical and radiological interventions were undertaken in 12 patients. Lower limb amputation was rare; limb survival was 88% (95% CI, 72% - 100%) at one year and 73% (95% CI 44% - 100%) at 4 years. Conclusions: Iliopopliteal grafts are rarely undertaken severe disease requiring their use is infrequently encountered. High mortality and low primary patency mean its use can only be advocated in exceptional circumstances.
Pertinence of Myocardial Perfusion Imaging in Octogenarians
Authors: Sidhu Manavjot , Bhalla Meenakshi , Chockalingam Anand , Dresser Thomas
Published: August 2009

Aim: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly population. Atypical presentation, reduced activity levels, and comorbidity often confound the diagnosis. We studied the use of stress myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in octogenarians. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients with both MPI and coronary angiogram within 6 months from 1998 to 2008. Sixty veterans under the age of 60 years who underwent both cardiac procedures served as controls. Results: We evaluated 53 patients, predominantly men, with mean age of 85 ± 2.5 yrs. Chest pain (68%) was the most common reason for requesting the stress test. Risk factors included diabetes 44%, hypertension 93%, smoking 48%, hyperlipidemia 93%, and peripheral vascular disease 40%. All patients had an abnormal myocardial perfusion scan. Reversible defects were present in 91% with the following distribution: mild 26%, moderate 39%, severe 15% and multiple defects 11%. Fixed defects were present in 44% of the patients. Analysis of both studies in the 53 patients revealed complete (43), partial (7) and no correlation (3) between the MPI defects and culprit lesions identified on the coronary angiogram. Positive predictive value and accuracy of the myocardial perfusion scan in detection of the disease was 98%. Follow up ranged from 1 to 10 years during which 19 patients died, and 7 deaths were cardiac. Conclusion: Myocardial perfusion imaging in octogenarians is as accurate in diagnosing CAD as it is in younger people.
Understanding the Educational Aspirations of African American Adolescents: Child, Family, and Community Factors
Authors: Nichols Tanya M. , Kotchick Beth A. , McNamara Barry Carolyn , Haskins Deborah G.
Published: August 2009

The current study examined the association between multiple systems of influence (adolescent, family, and community) and the educational aspirations of African American adolescents. Guided by ecological and integrative models of child development, in the current study the authors examined the association between the educational aspirations of 130 socioeconomically and educationally disadvantaged urban African American adolescents (mean age = 16.76 years) and factors within the adolescent (attitudes toward education and school self-esteem), family (perceived parental/guardian educational involvement and educational expectations), and community (number of community resources present and the average utilization of community resources). A hierarchical multiple regression indicated that both the adolescent and the family systems were related significantly to educational aspirations and explained a significant proportion of the variance. A test for moderation by gender indicated that African American males’ average utilization of community resources was related significantly and positively to their educational aspirations. The findings suggest that by targeting both micro and macro levels of influence, interventions can be designed to foster higher aspirations among at-risk African American youth.
Online communities of practice typology revisited
Authors: Hara Noriko , Shachaf Pnina , Stoerger Sharon
Published: August 2009

This paper outlines a typology for online communities of practice. The typology is based on findings from observations of three online communities of practice, a content analysis of messages, and a review of the existing literature. The three examples of communities of practice are of electronic discussion lists that cover topics of interest to university webmasters, librarians, and educators. This work expands on a typology that consolidated prior research and focused on online communities of practice within organizational settings by extending it to be inclusive of open online communities of practice that are not constrained by any organizational context. Characterizing communities of practice in this manner enables various aspects of them to be analysed, which can illuminate ways to support the implementation of effective online communities of practice for specific purposes.
Mechanistic Study on Hepatocarcinogenesis of Piperonyl Butoxide in Mice
Authors: Kawai Masaomi , Saegusa Yukie , Jin Meilan , Dewa Yasuaki , Nishimura Jihei , Harada Tomoaki , Shibutani Makoto , Mitsumori Kunitoshi
Published: August 2009

To clarify the mechanism of piperonyl butoxide (PBO)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in mice, male mice were subjected to a two-thirds partial hepatectomy, N-diethylnitrosamine (DEN) initiation, and a diet containing 0.6% PBO for eight weeks. The incidence of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT)-positive foci and PCNA-positive cells was significantly increased in the DEN + PBO group compared with the DEN-alone group. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis showed up-regulation of genes related to metabolism, such as cytochrome P450 1A1 and 2B10, and metabolic stress, such as Por, Nqo1, Nrf2, abcc3, and abcc4. Early responsive genes downstream of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), such as c-fos, c-jun, c-myc, and activating transcription factor 3 ( ATF3), were also up-regulated in this group. Positive immunohistochemical staining for ATF3 was diffusely observed in nonproliferating hepatocytes of the DEN + PBO group, but altered foci were negative or weakly positive for ATF3. The nuclei of hepatocytes within ATF3-negative foci were positive for cyclin D. Thus PBO can induce oxidative stress, activate the MAPK pathway, and increase ATF3 transcript levels in hepatocytes outside the altered foci during the early stage of PBO-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in mice.
The Location of Sexuality in Group Analysis
Authors: Nitzgen Dieter
Published: August 2009

This article addresses the subject of sexuality in group analysis, and tries to locate it in a group analytic context. To do so, Foulkes’ late paper on the ‘Oedipus Conflict and Regression’ (1972) is taken as a starting point. It is argued that both Foulkes, and later de Maré have convincingly shown that psycho-sexuality cannot be localized in the body, but has to be located in the group. This basic group analytic assumption has an affinity to certain Lacanian key concepts, namely the concepts of desire and of jouissance. Both are discussed and put into perspective.
‘Chocolates and Flowers? You Must be Joking!’ Of Men and Tenderness in Group Therapy
Authors: Seager Martin , Thümmel Uwe
Published: August 2009

Men’s therapy groups can play an important role, long neglected, in facilitating emotional development in males. Society has long turned a blind eye to male psychology and has colluded with male emotional self-neglect by failing to create gender-specific services for men. ‘Male-only’ group therapy is particularly suited to the male psyche, and can help to counteract traditional masculine defences of shame and guilt. It is argued that the absence of women in a group therapy context can play a vital role in enabling males to access hidden parts of their personalities. We describe our experience of facilitating a men’s group in the NHS and outline our approach. Case examples are used to illustrate how, through the group process, destructive relationships are gradually transformed into something more tender. In psychoanalytical terms, split off ‘softer’ emotional aspects of men in group therapy are thus re-integrated into a new masculine identity whilst over-inflated cruel aspects can be attenuated.
Flame Retardant Finishing of Cotton Fleece Fabric: Part VI. The Combination of a Hydroxyl-Functional Organophosphorus Oligomer and 1,2,3,4-Butanetetracarboxylic Acid
Authors: Cheng Xinying , Yang Charles Q.
Published: August 2009

The use of flame retardant finishing becomes necessary for cotton fleece to pass the U.S. government regulation ‘Standard for the Flammability of Clothing Textiles’ (16 CFR 1610). The objective of this research was to reduce the flammability of cotton fleece using a flame retardant finishing system consisting of a hydroxyl-functional organophosphorus oligomer (HFPO) as a flame retardant and 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) as a bonding agent. We investigated the role triethanolamine (TEA) played as a reactive additive in the HFPO/BTCA finishing system on cotton fleece. We also applied micro-scale calorimeter (MCC) to study the effectiveness of HFPO and BTCA in reducing the flammability of cotton. BTCA alone was able to reduce the peak heat release rate (PHRR) of cotton as demonstrated by the MCC data. Combining BTCA with HFPO decreased PHRR further and also significantly reduced the decomposition temperature and the temperature at PHRR of cotton. The cotton fleece treated with HFPO/BTCA/TEA passed the federal regulation (16 CFR Part 1610) and achieved ‘Class 1’ flammability. The treated cotton fleece was durable to multiple home laundering cycles. The use of TEA enhanced the performance of HFPO/BTCA and the treatment caused no significant changes in fabric physical properties.
Evaluation by Free Vibration Method of Moisture Absorption Effects in Polyamide/Carbon Fiber Laminates
Authors: Botelho E.C. , Rezende M.C.
Published: August 2009

The use of thermoplastic composite materials in aerospace and naval fields has increased due principally to their high performance associated with low specific weight. In order to screen material behavior, the effects of external environments on the mechanical properties during usage must be clearly understood. Environmental factors such as ultraviolet radiation (UV), corrosive fluids, moisture and temperature can limit the applications of composites by deteriorating the mechanical properties over a period of time. In order to characterize composite materials, are commonly used tensile tests. Another test that can be used in order to evaluate the viscoelastic properties of thermoplastic composite materials is free vibration damping. In this work, the viscoelastic properties of polyamide 6.6/carbon fiber laminates were obtained by two types of tests: tensile and free vibration damping tests. Two families of textile polyamide/carbon fiber composites ([±45] and [0/90]) were obtained by hot compression molding. The present studies have been performed to explore relations between the dynamic mechanical properties and the influence of high moisture concentration of this thermoplastic laminate. The results show that the E′ decrease with the increase in the exposed time for polyamide/carbon fiber composite specimens and that free vibration damping technique can be used instead of tensile test in order to know the elastic modulus.
Children’s Participation in Decision-Making in the Philippines
Authors: Bessell Sharon
Published: August 2009

This article explores the ideas about children’s participation in decision-making held by government officials and non-government representatives engaged in promoting children’s participation in the Philippines. It suggests that the ideas that policy-makers and service deliverers hold about children’s participation are heterogeneous, diverse and complex. While adults’ attitudes are often presented as serious barriers to children’s participation, this study suggests that they are both obstructive and facilitative. A deeper understanding of the range of ideas held by adults, particularly policy-makers and service providers, may be the critical next step in progressing children’s participation in a direction that is meaningful for children and influential in terms of policy outcomes.
Between Consumerism and Protectionism
Authors: Keller Margit , Kalmus Veronika
Published: August 2009

This study measures attitudes towards children’s vulnerability or empowerment within consumer culture, based on data from a representative population survey ( N = 1475) conducted in Estonia in 2005. The study use indices comprised of assessments of consumption practices and assertions pertaining to the ‘endangered vs empowered child’ debate in consumer and media studies. The results of the analysis show that consumerism and brand valuation are more strongly predicted by age and income and opinions about children’s vulnerability to advertising are mostly influenced by education and gender. Attitudes on the socializing role of the media are poorly explained by sociodemographic variables, although income and education play a more important role.
Childhood Experiences: a Commitment To Caring and Care Work With Vulnerable Children
Authors: Brannen Julia , Mooney Ann , Statham June
Published: August 2009

This article draws upon biographical interview material from a mixed-method British study of workers caring for vulnerable children: residential social workers, family support workers, foster carers and community childminders. It has two aims: (1) to identify the contexts — the particular events, circumstances and life course phases — that precipitated a move into their first occupation working with vulnerable children and young people; and (2) to analyse the main narrative resources that informants employed in explaining how they developed a commitment to care in general. It thereby suggests how workers are drawn to caring and when and why they take up this important work that is generally undervalued in the British context. In particular, it demonstrates how childhood constitutes a critical interpretive resource suggesting the importance of negative as well as positive formative experiences in creating a commitment to care for others, vulnerable children in particular.
No Place
Authors: Seeberg Marie Louise , Bagge Cecilie , Enger Truls André
Published: August 2009

Drawing on empirical material from fieldwork among young children living with their families in two Norwegian reception centres for asylum-seekers, this article compares their realities to the norms and realities for other children in Norway. Children’s spatial and social situations within the centres stand out in stark contrast to Norwegian childhood ideology and norms. The authorities explain the divergence in terms of migration management, and the spatiotemporal and social positions of ‘asylum-seekers’ in relation to those of ‘children’ within the nation-state are brought to the fore in the article. The perceived political dilemma between migration control and Norway’s image as a promoter of children’s rights is highlighted, and the authors suggest that the dilemma may be less real than is widely assumed.
Research With Hospitalized Children
Authors: Coyne Imelda , Hayes Eilis , Gallagher Pamela
Published: August 2009

Respecting children’s rights to be heard in matters that directly affect their everyday lives has become an established principle in Ireland and internationally. Accessing children’s voices raises a number of important issues for researchers across a wide range of disciplines. This article reflects on the organizational, practical and ethical challenges that arose from a study that investigated hospitalized children’s experiences of consultation and decision-making. The data collection process was hampered by practical and organizational factors, which consequently led to carrying out more individual interviews than focus groups as planned. Some obstacles associated with the hospital environment were practical issues that could be resolved, in contrast to ethical issues such as consent, privacy, access and the role of gatekeepers. The function of gatekeepers generally and in the healthcare setting in relation to accessing children needs to be debated and challenged because children may be silenced and excluded from the opportunity to have their voices heard.