bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity in Multiple Sclerosis: A Comparative Study of Vitamin D, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Regulatory T Cell Populations
Authors: Waschbisch A. , Wenny I. , Tallner A. , Schwab S. , Pfeifer K. , Mäurer M.
Published: July 2012

Background: Previous studies suggest beneficial effects of exercise in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, knowledge on the effects of physical activity on the immune system is limited. Objective: To assess potential relationships between cardiorespiratory fitness, cognitive function, and immune parameters in physically active and inactive MS patients. Methods: We identified 83 patients with relapsing-remitting disease, an unrestricted walking range, and stable interferon-β treatment from our data base. Based on the subjective report of physical activity, the lower/inactive (n = 21) and upper/active quartiles (n = 21) of patients were selected. We assessed the frequency of T cells, B cells, NK cells, monocytes and regulatory T cell populations by flow cytometry, measured brain-derived neurotrophic factor and vitamin D serum levels by ELISA, and conducted spiroergometry and transcranial sonography. Results: Physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness were not associated with brain-derived neurotrophic factor, frequency of T regulatory cells or any other immune cell subpopulation. However, we found a positive correlation of vitamin D serum levels with cardiorespiratory fitness. Conclusion: Overall, we found no negative effect of physical activity on the immune system. The association between vitamin D and cardiorespiratory fitness most likely reflects longer hours of sunlight exposure in active patients, suggesting a desirable ‘side- effect’ of physical activity.
The Association of Red Cell Distribution Width with Glycated Hemoglobin among Healthy Adults without Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Veeranna Vikas , Zalawadiya Sandip K. , Panaich Sidakpal S. , Ramesh Krithi , Afonso Luis
Published: July 2012

Background: Red cell distribution width (RDW) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) are both known to be predictive of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Objective: We hypothesized that RDW would be associated with HbA1c in adults without diabetes independent of fasting blood glucose (FBG). Methods: This cross-sectional study included 15,343 nondiabetic adults, free of CVD, enrolled in NHANES 1999–2008. Adjusted means of RDW were calculated across HbA1c categories for the overall population. Multivariable regression analyses were performed analyzing the association between RDW and HbA1c for individuals with available data on FBG (n = 7,454). Results: RDW significantly correlated with HbA1c (r = 0.27, p < 0.001; n = 15,343), with a gradual increase in adjusted mean RDW across HbA1c categories (12.59% ± 0.02% in the group with HbA1c ≤4.8% vs. 12.92% ± 0.02% in the group with HbA1c >5.8%, p < 0.001 for trend). In regression analyses, RDW independently predicted HbA1c (β-coefficient 0.034, 95% CI 0.026–0.042, p < 0.001). Conclusion: RDW significantly predicts HbA1c independent of FBG in healthy nondiabetic adults, suggesting the possibility of chronic hyperglycemia mediating the association between RDW and CVD.
Risk Factors Associated with Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae Nosocomial Bloodstream Infections in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Clinical and Molecular Analysis
Authors: Muro Sissy , Garza-González Elvira , Camacho-Ortiz Adrian , González Gloria María , Llaca-Díaz Jorge Martín , Bosques Francisco , Rositas Félix
Published: July 2012

Aim: To describe the risk factors and molecular epidemiology of nosocomial bloodstream infections caused by extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: Patients with enterobacteria-positive blood cultures were included. ESBL expression in the isolates was detected using the combination disk method. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the disk diffusion method. blaSHV, blaTEM, and blaCTX-M genes were identified in the isolated strains by PCR and sequencing. Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates were genotyped by PFGE. Results: Of the 90 isolates recovered, half were found to express ESBLs. Twenty-eight (62%) of these isolates were K. pneumoniae, 8 (18%) were Escherichia coli, 6 (13%) were Enterobacter cloacae, and 3 (7%) were Serratia marcescens. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the only independent risk factor associated with infection by ESBL-producing strains was use of broad-spectrum cephalosporins. None of the isolates was resistant to imipenem. The blaSHV5 gene was detected in 84% of isolates, followed by blaCTX-M15 (27%), blaSHV2 (9%), and blaSHV12 (7%). PFGE identified six clones among the 28 ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae isolates. Conclusions: ESBL-producing K. pneumoniae clones were detected throughout the hospital. Use of broad-spectrum cephalosporins is the most important risk factor associated with the proliferation of ESBL-producing strains.
Is Skin Self-Examination for Cutaneous Melanoma Detection Still Adequate? A Retrospective Study
Authors: De Giorgi Vincenzo , Grazzini Marta , Rossari Susanna , Gori Alessia , Papi Federica , Scarfi Federica , Savarese Imma , Gandini Sara
Published: July 2012

Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to analyze the relationship between detection pattern, tumor thickness, patient demographics, and personal and family history of melanoma in the era of noninvasive diagnosis. Methods: All patients with primary cutaneous melanoma who presented to the Department of Dermatology at the University of Florence between January 2000 and November 2010 were interviewed at the time of their final histopathological diagnoses of melanoma as part of their clinical record. The treating physician specifically questioned all patients about who had first detected or suspected the lesion that resulted in the histological diagnosis of melanoma. Results: A total of 802 melanoma patients were analyzed. The spouse found approximately 16% of the melanomas, and a similar percentage was discovered by the general practitioner. The largest group of melanomas (36%) was discovered during regular annual skin examinations by dermatologists, while another large group (33%) were discovered by the patients themselves. The data that emerged from our study is that self-detection was associated with a greater probability of having a thick melanoma and, therefore, a poor prognosis (odds ratio 1.56). Conclusions: Because the current mortality of melanoma is still stable, we are convinced that a new message should be introduced to encourage high-risk patients to have an annual skin examination as a rule.
Insulin Resistance and Coronary Heart Disease in Nondiabetic Individuals
Authors: Reaven Gerald
Published: July 2012

The goal of this review was to summarize evidence supporting the view that insulin resistance/compensatory hyperinsulinemia play an important role in the pathogenesis of coronary heart disease (CHD) in nondiabetic individuals. Results of case–control and epidemiological studies in nondiabetic individuals will be reviewed to examine the link between insulin resistance/compensatory hyperinsulinemia, associated abnormalities, and CHD. The primary focus of the review will be on the central role that dyslipidemia plays in the link between insulin resistance/compensatory hyperinsulinemia and CHD. Additional issues to be addressed include the following: (1) the relationship among obesity, insulin resistance, and CHD; (2) a listing of other abnormalities that contribute to risk of CHD in insulin-resistant individuals; and (3) discussion of the importance of differential tissue insulin sensitivity in the development of abnormalities that increase CHD risk in insulin-resistant, nondiabetic individuals. The information will reflect the author’s decision as to what issues are believed to be of particular relevance or less well appreciated concerning the complex relationship between insulin resistance and CHD. Resistance to insulin-mediated glucose disposal and hyperinsulinemia is a common finding in apparently healthy individuals and is associated with a number of abnormalities that greatly increase risk of CHD.
Growth Signals, Inflammation, and Vascular Perturbations
Authors: Hursting Stephen D. , Hursting Marcie J.
Published: July 2012

Nearly 35% of adults and 20% of children in the United States are obese, defined as a body mass index ≥30 kg/m
2
. Obesity, which is accompanied by metabolic dysregulation often manifesting in the metabolic syndrome, is an established risk factor for many cancers. Within the growth-promoting, proinflammatory environment of the obese state, cross talk between macrophages, adipocytes, and epithelial cells occurs via obesity-associated hormones, cytokines, and other mediators that may enhance cancer risk and progression. This review synthesizes the evidence on key biological mechanisms underlying the obesity-cancer link, with particular emphasis on obesity-associated enhancements in growth factor signaling, inflammation, and vascular integrity processes. These interrelated pathways represent possible mechanistic targets for disrupting the obesity-cancer link.
Smooth Muscle Phenotypic Modulation—A Personal Experience
Authors: Campbell Julie H. , Campbell Gordon R.
Published: July 2012

The idea that smooth muscle cells can exist in multiple phenotypic states depending on the functional demands placed upon them has been around for >5 decades. However, much of the literature today refers to only recent articles, giving the impression that it is a new idea. At the same time, the current trend is to delve deeper and deeper into transcriptional regulation of smooth muscle genes, and much of the work describing the change in biology of the cells in the different phenotypic states does not appear to be known. This loss of historical perspective regarding the biology of smooth muscle phenotypic modulation is what the current article has tried to mitigate.
The Empirical Power and Type I Error Rates of the GBT and ω Indices in Detecting Answer Copying on Multiple-Choice Tests
Authors: Zopluoglu Cengiz , Davenport Ernest C.
Published: July 2012

The generalized binomial test (GBT) and ω indices are the most recent methods suggested in the literature to detect answer copying behavior on multiple-choice tests. The ω index is one of the most studied indices, but there has not yet been a systematic simulation study for the GBT index. In addition, the effect of the ability levels of the examinees in answer copying pairs on the statistical properties of the GBT and ω indices have not been systematically addressed as yet. The current study simulated 500 answer copying pairs for each of 1,440 conditions (12 source ability level × 12 cheater ability level × 10 amount of copying) to study the empirical power and 10,000 pairs of independent response vectors for each of 144 conditions (12 source ability level × 12 cheater ability level) to study the empirical Type I error rates of the GBT and ω indices. Results indicate that neither GBT nor ω inflated the Type I error rates, and they are reliable to use in practice. The difference in statistical power of these two methods was very small, and GBT performs slightly better than does ω. The main effect for the amount of copying and the interaction effect between source ability level and the amount of copying are found to be very strong while all other main and interactions effects are negligible.
Similarities and Differences in Implicit Personality Concepts across Ethnocultural Groups in South Africa
Authors: Valchev Velichko H. , Nel J. Alewyn , van de Vijver Fons J. R. , Meiring Deon , de Bruin Gideon P. , Rothmann Sebastiaan
Published: July 2012

Using a combined emic–etic approach, the present study investigates similarities and differences in the indigenous personality concepts of ethnocultural groups in South Africa. Semistructured interviews asking for self- and other-descriptions were conducted with 1,027 Blacks, 58 Indians, and 105 Whites, speakers of the country’s 11 official languages. A model with 9 broad personality clusters subsuming the Big Five—Conscientiousness, Emotional Stability, Extraversion, Facilitating, Integrity, Intellect, Openness, Relationship Harmony, and Soft-Heartedness (Nel et al., 2012)—was examined. The 9 clusters were found in all groups, yet the groups differed in their use of the model’s components: Blacks referred more to social-relational descriptions, specific trait manifestations, and social norms, whereas Whites referred more to personal-growth descriptions and abstract concepts, and Indians had an intermediate pattern. The results suggest that a broad spectrum of personality concepts should be included in the development of common personality models and measurement tools for diverse cultural groups.
Clitic-doubled left dislocation and focus fronting in L2 Spanish: A case of successful acquisition at the syntax–discourse interface
Authors: Slabakova Roumyana , Kempchinsky Paula , Rothman Jason
Published: July 2012

This experimental study tests the Interface Hypothesis by looking into processes at the syntax–discourse interface, teasing apart acquisition of syntactic, semantic and discourse knowledge. Adopting López’s (2009) pragmatic features [±a(naphor)] and [±c(ontrast)], which in combination account for the constructions of dislocation and fronting, we tested clitic left dislocation and fronted focus in the comprehension of English native speakers learning Spanish. Furthermore, we tested knowledge of an additional semantic property: the relationship between the discourse anaphor and the antecedent in clitic left dislocation (CLLD). This relationship is free: it can be subset, superset, part/whole. Syntactic knowledge of clitics was a condition for inclusion in the main test. Our findings indicate that all learners are sensitive to the semantic constraints. While the near-native speakers display native-like discourse knowledge, the advanced speakers demonstrated some discourse knowledge, and intermediate learners did not display any discourse knowledge. The findings support as well as challenge the Interface Hypothesis.
L2 acquisition of Bulgarian clitic doubling: A test case for the Interface Hypothesis
Authors: Ivanov Ivan P.
Published: July 2012

The purpose of this study is to expand the testing ground of the Interface Hypothesis (Sorace, 2006) by investigating the degree to which second language (L2) learners of Bulgarian with English as their first language (L1) had acquired the pragmatic function of clitic doubling as a topicality marker. Advanced and intermediate L2 speakers of Bulgarian, as well as a control group of Bulgarian native speakers, participated in the experiment. The experimental materials included a proficiency test and a pragmatic felicity task. The results showed that the intermediate participants did not differentiate between the felicitous and the infelicitous options in the pragmatic felicity task in a target-like manner as their responses either did not exhibit a statistically significant difference or favored the response closest to the L1. However, the advanced L2 learners had successfully acquired the pragmatic meaning of clitic doubling in Bulgarian and performed in a native-like manner. The study highlights the fact that successful learning at the syntax–discourse interface cannot be excluded, and more research – exploring as many interface conditions as possible – needs to be carried out in order to validate the Interface Hypothesis as a legitimate constraint that permanently hinders native-like performance.
Recidivism After Treatment in a Forensic Youth-Psychiatric Setting
Authors: van der Put Claudia E. , Asscher Jessica J. , Stams Geert Jan J. M. , van der Laan Peter H. , Breuk Rene , Jongman Erik , Doreleijers Theo
Published: July 2012

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of treatment characteristics on recidivism in a forensic youth-psychiatric outpatient clinic. The treatment offered comprised functional family therapy (FFT), individual cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or CBT in combination with parent training. Some of the youth additionally participated in aggression replacement training (ART). FFT and ART were implemented as a trial version, meaning that most therapists had not received formal training yet. Treatment characteristics related to recidivism were length of treatment, type of treatment, number of sessions, and the therapist. The longer the period of treatment and the greater the number of sessions, the higher the recidivism, even after controlling for risk of recidivism based on static risk factors. Juveniles who participated in ART reoffended more often than juveniles who had not participated in such training. Given the fact that FFT and ART were not well-implemented trial versions, it can be concluded that poorly implemented treatment leads to poor outcomes.
Examining the Effectiveness of a Restorative Justice Program for Various Types of Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Bergseth Kathleen J. , Bouffard Jeffrey A.
Published: July 2012

Restorative justice (RJ) programs have become widespread in the United States and in other countries. These programs are often seen as a viable alternative to traditional retributive processing, especially for minor, and sometimes more serious, forms of delinquency and adult criminality. The programs hold promise for achieving several goals, including increased community and victim involvement, greater satisfaction with the case outcomes, improved offender compliance, increased perceptions of fairness, and even recidivism reduction. Meta-analyses have demonstrated varying degrees of program success in recidivism reduction, which may in part reflect differential effectiveness of the RJ approach for various kinds of offenders. This study examined whether an RJ program for juvenile offenders had differential impacts on recidivism across various offender characteristics (including age, gender, racial group, offending history, and current offense). Results generally support the effectiveness of the program for many types of offenders. Implications for future research and potential improvements to the RJ model are discussed.
Scholarly Influence in Criminology and Criminal Justice Journals in 1990–2005
Authors: Cohn Ellen G. , Farrington David P.
Published: July 2012

This research investigates changes in scholarly influence by identifying the most-cited scholars and their most-cited works in 20 journals: Five American criminology journals, Five American criminal justice journals, Five international criminology journals, and Five international criminal justice journals. Results obtained in 2005 were compared with previous findings in 2000, 1995, and 1990. Exactly the same methods and journals were used in each year. In 2005, the most-cited scholars were Robert J. Sampson in American criminology journals, American criminal justice journals, and international criminal justice journals, and David P. Farrington in international criminology journals. Overall, Robert J. Sampson was the most-cited scholar in these 20 journals in 2005. He was also the most-cited scholar in these journals in 2000, compared with Lawrence W. Sherman in 1995 and Marvin E. Wolfgang in 1990. The most-cited works of the most-cited scholars included the theories of Sampson and Laub, Gottfredson and Hirschi, and Moffitt, as well as the criminal career paradigm, the effectiveness of correctional treatment, and evidence-based crime prevention. The authors conclude that these analyses reveal changes over time in theoretical concerns and policy issues.
When the Mayor Speaks . . . Mayoral Crime Control Rhetoric in the Top U.S. Cities
Authors: Marion Nancy E. , Oliver Willard M.
Published: July 2012

Past research on presidential and gubernatorial rhetoric related to crime shows that both presidents and governors use symbolic statements in their crime rhetoric. To date, no research has analyzed how mayors employ political language related to crime. As mayors are politically closer to the people and have a greater impact on local crime policy, it is important to understand the nature of how mayors use symbolic language about crime. The current study draws on hypotheses derived from research related to presidents and governors and applies them to the top 50 city executives. A content analysis of 6 years (2005-2010) of mayors’ State of the City speeches was conducted to assess how mayors employ the issue of crime in their political communication. Overall, the results suggest that mayors employ crime rhetoric in a different manner from other executives when speaking to their constituents about crime.
Creating Lasting Family Connections
Authors: McKiernan Patrick , Shamblen Stephen R. , Collins David A. , Strader Ted N. , Kokoski Christopher
Published: July 2012

There is increasing evidence of the effectiveness of continued care after reentry for those who have participated in prison-based substance abuse treatment. This article presents results from analyses of program and comparison group data from two community-based programs that implemented a culturally adapted version of the Creating Lasting Family Connections (CLFC) curriculum. Both programs sought to strengthen individuals (and their families) recently reentering the community after incarceration. Results suggested that the first program had effects on increasing HIV knowledge and spirituality, while reducing intentions to binge drink and recidivism. The second program similarly showed effects on recidivism, and participants also showed an increase in nine separate relationship skills. The policy implications of the results are discussed.
Testing a Method to Develop Preliminary Cost Estimates of Homicide in Glasgow
Authors: Harvey Michael J. , Williams Damien J. , Donnelly Peter D.
Published: July 2012

By European standards Scotland is a violent country with a disproportionate number of its homicides occurring in Glasgow. In addition to its devastating health and social impact, homicide imposes a considerable financial burden. The extent of the cost has been based on 2003 estimates for England and Wales. This study aimed to test a method for developing preliminary estimates of the cost of homicide in Glasgow from 2002 to 2009, based on four cost categories: lost output, incarceration cost, investigation cost, and cost of physical and emotional impact. Findings suggested that the previous cost estimate of £1.46 million underestimated the cost of homicide in Glasgow for the same year (2003, £1.52 million) and each subsequent year up to 2009 (£1.55 million-£1.68 million). Appropriate costing information is crucial in informing violence prevention policy, practice, and evaluation. A number of methodological considerations have been identified that will enable more thorough cost estimates in the future.
Antecedents of Role Stress Among Correctional Staff
Authors: Garland Brett , Hogan Nancy L. , Lambert Eric G.
Published: July 2012

Role stress is an important aspect of the prison workplace that impairs organizational functioning and can have negative effects for correctional staff. While the effects of role stress on correctional workers are largely known, few studies have examined the causes of role stress. The current study explores potential antecedents of role stress among 160 correctional staff at a private Midwestern prison. Multivariate OLS (ordinary least squares) regression analysis identified five statistically significant predictors of role stress: instrumental communication, supervisory support, formalization, job autonomy, and race. The results suggest that correctional managers and supervisors can reduce role stress substantially by clarifying the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of employees, creating a supportive atmosphere for workers, and identifying areas where staff can have greater control over their jobs.
The Taliban Did Not Create the Taliban, Imperialism Did
Authors: Gagnon Jean-Paul
Published: July 2012

Sir Karl Popper’s (2002) method of historicism has been neglected in the analysis of the radicalisation of Afghanistan’s society in the form of the Taliban. Popper’s historicism is the idea that the past may allow the forecasting of the future by understanding the state of the present in one specific line of historical inquiry. It is argued herein that by analysing periods of imperialism—those eras of social injustice, violence and oppression—it is seen that such imperialism led to radical fundamentalism, as many had no choice but to lash out. The push to strenuous religious identity, heavily laden with violent tactics, was the natural response of peoples trying to maintain their identities and collective destiny from imperial domination. Furthermore, as evidence continues to show, most often those individuals that are first to radicalise are the poorest of the poor, the dispossessed, or those who have experienced violent injustices. Using Popper’s method, it is possible to explain how imperialism breeds radicalism (using Afghanistan as an example) and as such provide some general recommendations to swing the pendulum in reverse so as to minimise radical behaviour. This article has implications for international relations, foreign policies and aid.
Impact of Microfinance on Seasonal Hardship in Northern Bangladesh: A Propensity Score Matching Approach
Authors: Shahriar Abu Zafar
Published: July 2012

Daily income and food consumption of poor households in northern Bangladesh fall drastically during the autumn lean season of the year. In local terms, this seasonal hardship is known as monga, a near famine situation. Using the propensity score matching technique on cross-sectional data from Kurigram, one of the most poverty-stricken districts of northern Bangladesh, a study was conducted, which finds that participation in microfinance programmes reduces fluctuations in daily income and food consumption in the autumn lean period. Households’ capacity to cope with risk increases as the length of membership in microfinance programmes increases. The study further suggests that it is the relatively poorer households that benefit more from microfinance.
From Numbers to Structures: Navigating the Complex Terrains of Science, Education and Feminism
Authors: Shah Chayanika
Published: July 2012

This article describes a personal and disciplinary journey in, around and between getting more women in science and changing the nature of science education. Using the framework of Feminist Science Studies, I explore the gendered nature of science and offer a suggestion to make it more contextualised and more located in its specific setting. This will be beneficial not only for those excluded from science education but also for the provision of a better science education itself.
Re-thinking the Goals of Education: Some Thoughts on Women’s Education and Women’s Development
Authors: Chakravarti Uma
Published: July 2012

This article examines the linkages between women’s education and women’s development as these have been understood and forged by feminists. The rhetoric of empowerment is examined to see what is included among its indices. The article explores questions about the goals of women’s education as understood by policy makers and educationists. These are examined in relation to the feminist commitment to women’s right to autonomy, to fulfilling their own potential as human beings, to thinking for themselves and to changing the structural conditions that obstruct their autonomy. I argue that education, unless conceptualised in the ways in which Jotiba Phule and Paulo Freire did—as a traitiya ratna, or a third eye that opens up a way of understanding the world, and as a pedagogy of the oppressed, respectively—is otherwise of little use to women, as it is for all those outside the field of power.
Palliative Health Care
Authors: Mehta Jay
Published: July 2012

An ancient story from Bhagavata Purana may be relevant to the psychology and spirituality of palliative care in modern medicine. This article brings an ancient Indian story that people still use during the grieving process. Symbolism of the old story is explained in a modern perspective.
Providing Quality Palliative Care in End-Stage Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Yeaman Paul A. , Ford James L. , Kim Kye Y.
Published: July 2012

Providing quality palliative care is a daunting task profoundly impacted by diminished patient capacity at the end of life. Alzheimer disease (AD) is a disorder that erases our memories and is projected to increase dramatically for decades to come. By the time the patients with AD reach the end stage of the disease, the ability of patients to provide pertinent subjective complaints of pain and discomfort would have vanished. Historical perspectives of palliative care, exploration of the AD process, ethical issues, and crucial clinical considerations are provided to improve the understanding of disease progression and quality of care for patients with end-stage AD.
Waking
Authors: Moon Paul J.
Published: July 2012

An indubitable aspect of laboring in the realm of hospice care is the “everydayness” of human loss or the stark encounter of death in the human experience. This can pose as opportunity to adopt each day in a particular manner. As such, the focus of my reflection is on transposing certain dynamics of a (funeral) wake to broader professional and personal socioexistential processes.
Asthma and Adolescents
Authors: Hennessy-Harstad Ellen
Published: July 2012

One of every 10 adolescents in the United States has asthma. Adolescents who lack asthma control are at increased risk for severe asthma episodes and death. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 2007 asthma guidelines and research studies indicated that school nurses are instrumental in assisting adolescents to monitor their asthma, learn asthma self-management skills, and improve health outcomes. This integrative review examines the research from 2005 to 2011 to identify strategies for school nurses to employ with adolescents to foster self-management skills. The research reviewed here supports the need for school nurses to engage adolescents with asthma to practice self-management behaviors. They should educate the adolescent for asthma, monitor how well the adolescent controls asthma, manage acute asthma episodes by using an asthma action plan, and coordinate care by obtaining written consent from parents to share health information with health care providers.
ODM: a new approach for open pit mine blasting evaluation
Authors: Taji M , Ataei M , Goshtasbi K , Osanloo M
Published: July 2012

In open pit mines, the blasting operation should be effectively optimized at the lowest possible total cost, providing technical specifications and the required safety norms. The optimization demand measurement (ODM) value of blast should be evaluated by considering blast results and other mine unit operations, comprehensively. The present research proceeds by taking into consideration seven blast results including degree of fragmentation, muckpile, overbreak, boulders, bench floor and toe conditions, environmental considerations and misfires. Consequently, these results have been rated and classified. In the ODM, a value could be assigned to each blast, with lower values corresponding to better results of the blasting operation. The ODM procedure indicates a relationship between blasting results, drilling and loading performances. The specific mine unit operations index and the blast block situation rating are introduced in order to determine the ODM value. The blast results evaluation and its effects on the mining operation are analyzed by utilizing the blast results matrix [ζ], the performance matrix [P] and the ODM matrix [O]. Based on the results as well as considering optimization, blasts are classified into five modes: very good, good, relatively weak, weak and very weak. Thereafter, the ODM procedure is applied to the blasting operation at an Iranian iron ore open pit mine (Chador Malu), with nine blast blocks. In summary, this approach could help design engineers to recognize the optimization demand of the blasting operation at different mining conditions.
Prediction of blast-induced vibration by adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system in Karoun 3 power plant and dam
Authors: Ataei Mohamad , Kamali Mehdi
Published: July 2012

In this research a study was conducted to predict the ground vibrations produced by blasting projects in the structures of Karoun 3 power plant and dam (Izeh town, Iran) using a conventional statistical approach and a relatively new soft computing method known as the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). For this aim a series of field measurements were planned and the required data were observed. A neuro-fuzzy model was constructed based on the data. In this model, the distance from the blasting site to the monitoring stations and the maximum charge weight per delay were selected as the input parameters of the constructed model, the output parameter being the peak particle velocity (PPV) as the vibration indicator. The results showed that the ANFIS model associated with the empirical model is a reliable and proper technique to predict the PPV caused from blasting.
Suppression of vibration caused by residual unbalance of rotor for magnetically suspended flywheel
Authors: Tang Jiqiang , Liu Bin , Fang Jiancheng , Ge Shuzhi Sam
Published: July 2012

For a magnetically suspended flywheel (MSFW), the residual unbalance of rotor can cause synchronous vibration and reduce the attitude control precision of spacecrafts. To eliminate the vibration caused by the residual unbalance of rotor suspended by magnetic bearing, the theorem of unbalance vibration is researched, and it is pointed out that the vibration can be successfully suppressed through the elimination of synchronous component in magnetic suspension forces by a magnetic suspension force compensation method. Based on the general notch filter, this method is proposed to be closed-loop style when the rotor rotates beyond its critical stable speed and to be open-loop style when the speed of the rotor is less than the critical stable speed by additional displacement stiffness compensation segment, open and closed-loop control method. The stability of this method is analyzed and the ability to eliminate n octave synchronous is verified in the whole speed range of the rotor. Experimental results demonstrate that this method can suppress the unbalance vibration significantly in the operation speeds of MSFW and is suitable for MSFW in that the rotor traverses its critical stable speed frequently.
Positive predictive value of albumin: globulin ratio for feline infectious peritonitis in a mid-western referral hospital population
Authors: Jeffery Unity , Deitz Krysta , Hostetter Shannon
Published: July 2012

Low albumin to globulin ratio has been found previously to have a high positive predictive value for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) in cats with clinical signs highly suggestive of the disease. However, FIP can have a more vague clinical presentation. This retrospective study found that the positive predictive value of an albumin:globulin (A:G) ratio of <0.8 and <0.6 was only 12.5% and 25%, respectively, in a group of 100 cats with one or more clinical signs consistent with FIP. The negative predictive value was 100% and 99% for an A:G ratio of <0.8 and A:G<0.6%, respectively. Therefore, when the prevalence of FIP is low, the A:G ratio is useful to rule out FIP but is not helpful in making a positive diagnosis of FIP.
Evening Cortisol Is Associated With Intra-Individual Instability in Daytime Napping in Nursing Home Residents With Dementia
Authors: Woods Diana Lynn , Yefimova Maria
Published: July 2012

Background:

Circadian rhythm disruption, reflected in alterations in sleep–wake activity and daytime napping behavior, is consistently reported in nursing home (NH) residents with dementia. This disruption may be reflected in day-to-day instability. The concept of allostatic load (AL), a measure of cumulative biological burden over a lifetime, may be a helpful model for understanding cortisol diurnal rhythm and daytime napping activity in this population. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between intra-individual daytime napping episodes and basal cortisol diurnal rhythm in NH residents with dementia in the context of AL.

Method:

Using a within-individual longitudinal design ( N = 51), the authors observed and recorded daytime napping activity every 20 min for 10 hr per day across 4 consecutive days. The authors obtained saliva samples 4 times each day (upon participants’ waking and within 1 hr, 6 hr, and 12 hr of participants’ wake time) for cortisol analysis.

Results:

The authors categorized participants as high changers (HCs; day-to-day instability in napping activity) or low changers (LCs; day-to-day stability). There were no significant differences in resident characteristics between groups. There was a significant difference between HCs and LCs in napping episodes ( F = 4.86, p = .03), with an interaction effect of evening cortisol on napping episodes in the HC group ( F = 10.161, p = .001).

Conclusions:

NH residents with unstable day-to-day napping episodes are more responsive to alterations in evening cortisol, an index of a dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. They may also be more amenable to environmental intervention, an avenue for further research.
Perpetuating the Myth of the Culture War Court? Issue Attention in Newspaper Coverage of U.S. Supreme Court Nominations
Authors: Evans Michael , Pearson-Merkowitz Shanna
Published: July 2012

Using digital text analysis methods, we analyze over 3800 newspaper articles covering U.S. Supreme Court judicial appointments between 1981 and 2009 to measure the level of (in)congruence between the Court’s agenda and the issues emphasized by the media. We find that newspapers highlight “culture war” issues at the expense of other important issues addressed much more frequently by the Court. Moreover, abortion in particular receives attention in more articles and in much greater depth than any other issue. With a few minor deviations, these patterns are consistent across nominations. These findings raise normative concerns regarding the didactic function of the print media in American democracy and shed empirical light on positive theories of media behavior.
Reorientation Deficits Are Associated With Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Caffò Alessandro O. , De Caro Maria F. , Picucci Luciana , Notarnicola Alessandra , Settanni Annalisa , Livrea Paolo , Lancioni Giulio E. , Bosco Andrea
Published: July 2012

Background/Aims:

Spatial memory can be impaired in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). The present study investigates categorical spatial memory deficits using a virtual navigation-based reorientation task.

Methods:

Twenty-eight amnestic single domain and 23 amnestic multiple domain patients were compared with 53 healthy elderly controls on the performance of the virtual reorientation test (VReoT).

Results:

The reorientation performance of participants in both aMCI groups was significantly worse than that of controls suggesting that VReoT detects spatial memory deficits. No significant difference emerged between the 2 groups of patients. A subsequent receiver–operating characteristic analysis showed that a score of 8 had a sensitivity of 80.4% and a specificity of 94.3% (area under the curve = 0.90).

Conclusion:

The VReoT seemed to be accurate in differentiating patients with aMCI from controls and may represent an evaluation supplement for spatial memory deficits in prodromal stages of Alzheimer’s dementia.
STAM Protocol in Dementia
Authors: Ceccato Enrico , Vigato Giovanna , Bonetto Chiara , Bevilacqua Albina , Pizziolo Paolo , Crociani Susanna , Zanfretta Emanuele , Pollini Lorenza , Caneva Paolo Alberto , Baldin Lorella , Frongillo Cristina , Signorini Andrea , Demoro Sara , Barchi Elisabetta
Published: July 2012

Background:

The Sound Training for Attention and Memory in Dementia (STAM-Dem) is a manualized music-based protocol designed to be used in the rehabilitation of cognitive functions in elderly patients with dementia (PWD).

Method:

This was a multicenter, single-blind, randomized, and controlled trial that involved 51 PWD. The objective was to test the STAM-Dem efficacy. Patients in the experimental group followed the STAM-Dem for 2 weekly sessions of 45 minutes for 12 weeks (in addition to standard care). Those in the control group continued with the normal “standard care” provided.

Results:

In the experimental group, the instruments immediate prose memory test (MPI), deferred prose memory test (MPD), attentional matrices, activities of daily living, Music Therapy Activity Scale (SVAM) and Geriatric Music Therapy Profile (GMP) increase significantly from pre to post-test ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

The protocol is feasible and data suggest that there was an effect on attentino (matrices) and prose memory skills (MPI and MPD). The effect size reveals a general improvement in the results of the experimental group.
Anticholinesterase-Induced Symptoms Improved by Pacemaker Implantation in Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Osmonov Damirbek , Özcan Kazim Serhan , Erdinler Izzet , Altay Servet , Turkkan Ceyhan , Yildirim Ersin , Gurkan Kadir
Published: July 2012

Herein we describe 6 cases of patients with Alzheimer’s disease presented with syncope, dizziness, and dyspnea soon after the initiation of cholinesterase inhibitor therapy. All patients had bradyarrhythmia on electrocardiogram (ECG). Two patients had complete atrioventricular block, 2 pateints had 2/1 type atrioventricular block, 1 patient had sinus bradycardia and hypersensitive carotid sinus syndrome, and 1 had sick sinus syndrome. All these patients were treated with pacemaker implantation and the cholinesterase inhibitor therapy continued. At 13-month follow-up, no syncope, dizziness, or dyspnea was reported.
Development of an Instrument to Measure Attitudes of Physical Therapy Providers Working With People With Dementia
Authors: Staples William H. , Killian Clyde B.
Published: July 2012

Background and Purpose:

This study investigated the factor structure of an instrument to measure attitudes and beliefs of how physical therapist (PT) practitioners perceive working with people with a dementia disorder.

Methods:

A survey was mailed to every skilled nursing facility in Indiana (n = 495) for completion by a PT or physical therapist assistant. The survey was developed and included whether the severity of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) impacts the attitudes of physical therapy practitioners.

Results:

Of the 12 attitudinal questions, 11 were significant ( P < .001) concerning how the severity of a diagnosis of AD (early, middle, and late) impacts attitudes of people in physical therapy practice. Principal component analysis identified 3 factors with Eigen values of 3.3 or higher accounting for 43% of the cumulative variance. These factors include professional competence, resources, and conscientiousness.

Conclusion:

This brief instrument could serve as an assessment tool to determine whether PT practitioners exhibit therapeutic nihilism when working with people with a dementia disorder.
Negative Cases in the Nexus Between Self-Control, Social Bonds, and Delinquency
Authors: Hay Carter , Meldrum Ryan C. , Piquero Alex R.
Published: July 2012

Gottfredson and Hirschi view social bonds and crime as spurious correlates that are associated largely because each results from self-control. Prior tests undermine this hypothesis, pointing to negative cases that run counter to its logic. The authors examine this issue with attention to negative cases in which self-control does not translate into the expected level of social bonding. Analyzing data from a sample of U.S. adolescents, the authors found that negative cases constitute between 8% and 27% of cases and that assessing them sheds new light on the interconnections between self-control, social bonds, and delinquency.
Criminal images: The affective judgment of graffiti and street art
Authors: Young Alison
Published: July 2012

This article draws together two distinct strands within contemporary criminological scholarship by focusing on the encounter between the criminal law and the uncommissioned word or image in public space. The first strand of criminological research involves the study of the processes through which aspects of everyday life have become criminalised; the second is that which has investigated the cultural practices known as graffiti and street art, often approached as manifestations of subcultures, as the products of new social movements, and as ambiguous images straddling the art/crime dichotomy. The article examines the response of law to uncommissioned images and words in public space, and investigates the law’s judgment of illicit art and writing. Based upon research done as part of a three-year study of street art and graffiti in a range of jurisdictions, the article draws upon theories of affect to think through the ways in which the illicit writer or artist is constructed.
Meat Animals, Humane Standards and Other Legal Fictions
Authors: Cassuto David N.
Published: July 2012

Law and food are distinct concepts, though the discipline (Law and Food) implies a relationship worthy of study. The conjunction (“and”) creates meaning. However, its absence also conveys meaning. For example, “meat animal” suggests that animals can be both meat and animal. This conflation has powerful legal implications. National Meat Association v. Harris (2012) makes chillingly plain the law’s indifference to whether a meat animal is alive or dead. This essay examines the way supposedly humane federal practices ignore the systematic brutalization of “food animals” as those animals get processed into marketable flesh. It concludes with some observations about why this legal blindness exists.
Dapoxetine: a new option in the medical management of premature ejaculation
Authors: McMahon Chris G
Published: July 2012

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common male sexual disorder which is associated with substantial personal and interpersonal negative psychological consequences. Pharmacotherapy of PE with off-label antidepressant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is common, effective and safe. Development and regulatory approval of drugs specifically for the treatment of PE will reduce reliance on off-label treatments and serve to fill an unmet treatment need. The objective of this article is to review evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine in the treatment of PE. MEDLINE, Web of Science, PICA, EMBASE and the proceedings of major international and regional scientific meetings were searched for publications or abstracts published during the period 1993–2012 that used the word ‘dapoxetine’ in the title, abstract or keywords. This search was then manually cross referenced for all papers. This review encompasses studies of dapoxetine pharmacokinetics, animal studies, human phase I, II and III studies, independent postmarketing and pharmacovigilance efficacy and safety studies and drug-interaction studies. Dapoxetine is a potent SSRI which is administered on demand 1–3 h prior to planned sexual contact. It is rapidly absorbed and eliminated, resulting in minimal accumulation, and has dose-proportional pharmacokinetics which are unaffected by multiple dosing. Dapoxetine 30 mg and 60 mg has been evaluated in five industry-sponsored randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in 6081 men aged at least 18 years. Outcome measures included stopwatch-measured intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), Premature Ejaculation Profile (PEP) inventory items, Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGIC) in PE, and adverse events. Mean IELT, all PEP items and CGIC improved significantly with both doses of dapoxetine versus placebo (all p <0.001). The most common treatment-related adverse effects included nausea (11.0% for 30 mg, 22.2% for 60 mg), dizziness (5.9% for 30 mg, 10.9% for 60 mg), and headache (5.6% for 30 mg, 8.8% for 60 mg), and evaluation of validated rated scales demonstrated no SSRI class-related effects with dapoxetine use. Dapoxetine, as the first drug developed for PE, is an effective and safe treatment for PE and represents a major advance in sexual medicine.