bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Redox Sensitive Calcium Stores Underlie Enhanced After Hyperpolarization of Aged Neurons: Role for Ryanodine Receptor Mediated Calcium Signaling
Authors: Bodhinathan Karthik , Kumar Ashok , Foster Thomas C.
Published: September 2010

A decrease in the excitability of CA1 pyramidal neurons contributes to the age related decrease in hippocampal function and memory decline. Decreased neuronal excitability in aged neurons can be observed as an increase in the Ca2+- activated K+- mediated post burst afterhyperpolarization (AHP). In this study, we demonstrate that the slow component of AHP (sAHP) in aged CA1 neurons (aged-sAHP) is decreased ∼50% by application of the reducing agent dithiothreitol (DTT). The DTT-mediated decrease in the sAHP was age specific, such that it was observed in CA1 pyramidal neurons of aged (20–25 mo), but not young (6–9 mo) F344 rats. The effect of DTT on the aged-sAHP was blocked following depletion of intracellular Ca2+stores (ICS) by thapsigargin or blockade of ryanodine receptors (RyRs) by ryanodine, suggesting that the age-related increase in the sAHP was due to release of Ca2+from ICS through redox sensitive RyRs. The DTT-mediated decrease in the aged-sAHP was not blocked by inhibition of L-type voltage gated Ca2+channels (L-type VGCC), inhibition of Ser/Thr kinases, or inhibition of the large conductance BK potassium channels. The results add support to the idea that a shift in the intracellular redox state contributes to Ca2+dysregulation during aging.
Functional Properties of Human Primary Motor Cortex Gamma Oscillations
Authors: Muthukumaraswamy Suresh D.
Published: September 2010

Gamma oscillations in human primary motor cortex (M1) have been described in human electrocorticographic and noninvasive magnetoencephalographic (MEG)/electroencephalographic recordings, yet their functional significance within the sensorimotor system remains unknown. In a set of four MEG experiments described here a number of properties of these oscillations are elucidated. First, gamma oscillations were reliably localized by MEG in M1 and reached peak amplitude 137 ms after electromyographic onset and were not affected by whether movements were cued or self-paced. Gamma oscillations were found to be stronger for larger movements but were absent during the sustained part of isometric movements, with no finger movement or muscle shortening. During repetitive movement sequences gamma oscillations were greater for the first movement of a sequence. Finally, gamma oscillations were absent during passive shortening of the finger compared with active contractions sharing similar kinematic properties demonstrating that M1 oscillations are not simply related to somatosensory feedback. This combined pattern of results is consistent with gamma oscillations playing a role in a relatively late stage of motor control, encoding information related to limb movement rather than to muscle contraction.
Learning on Multiple Timescales in Smooth Pursuit Eye Movements
Authors: Yang Yan , Lisberger Stephen G.
Published: September 2010

We commonly think of motor learning as a gradual process that makes small, adaptive steps in a consistent direction. We now report evidence that learning in pursuit eye movements could start with large, transient short-term alterations that stoke a more gradual long-term process. Monkeys tracked a target that started moving horizontally or vertically. After 250 ms of motion had produced a preinstruction eye velocity close to target velocity, an orthogonal component of target motion created an instructive change in target direction that was randomly in one of the two directions along the orthogonal axis. The preinstruction eye velocity in each trial expressed single-trial learning as a bias toward the direction of the instruction in the prior trial. The single-trial learning was forgotten within 4 to 10 s. Two observations implied that single-trial learning was not simply cognitive anticipation. First, the magnitude of the trial-over-trial change in eye velocity depended on the ongoing eye velocity at the time of the instruction in the prior trial. Single-trial learning was negligible if the prior trial had provided a well-timed cue without evoking any preinstruction eye velocity. Second, regular alternation of the direction of the instructive target motion caused reactive rather than anticipatory trial-over-trial changes in eye velocity. Humans showed very different responses that appeared to be based on cognitive anticipation rather than learning. We suggest that single-trial learning results from a low-level learning mechanism and may be a necessary prerequisite for longer-term modifications that are more permanent.
Prolactin Receptor–Integrin Cross-Talk Mediated by SIRPα in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Galbaugh Traci , Feeney Yvonne B. , Clevenger Charles V.
Published: September 2010

The hormone prolactin (PRL) contributes to the pathogenesis of breast cancer in part through its activation of Janus-activated kinase 2 (Jak2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (Stat5), a PRL receptor (PRLr)–associated pathway dependent on cross-talk signaling from integrins. It remains unclear, however, how this cross-talk is mediated. Following PRL stimulation, we show that a complex between the transmembrane glycoprotein signal regulatory protein-α (SIRPα) and the PRLr, β1 integrin, and Jak2 in estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) and ER− breast cancer cells is formed. Overexpression of SIRPα in the absence of collagen 1 significantly decreased PRL-induced gene expression, phosphorylation of PRLr-associated signaling proteins, and PRL-stimulated proliferation and soft agar colony formation. In contrast, overexpression of SIRPα in the presence of collagen 1 increased PRL-induced gene expression; phosphorylation of Jak2, Stat5, and Erk; and PRL-stimulated cell growth. Interestingly, overexpression of a tyrosine-deficient SIRPα (SIRPα-4YF) prevented the signaling and phenotypic effects mediated by wild-type SIRPα. Furthermore, overexpression of a phosphatase-defective mutant of Shp-2 or pharmacologic inhibition of Shp-2 produced effects comparable with that of SIRPα-4YF. However, the tyrosine phosphorylation of SIRPα was unaffected in the presence or absence of collagen 1. These data suggest that SIRPα modulates PRLr-associated signaling as a function of integrin occupancy predominantly through the alteration of Shp-2 activity. This PRLr-SIRPα-integrin complex may therefore provide a basis for integrin-PRLr cross-talk and contribute to the biology of breast cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 8(10); 1413–24. ©2010 AACR.
Relief of Mitral Leaflet Tethering Following Chronic Myocardial Infarction by Chordal Cutting Diminishes Left Ventricular Remodeling
Authors: Messas Emmanuel , Bel Alain , Szymanski Catherine , Cohen Iris , Touchot Bernard , Handschumacher Mark D. , Desnos Michel , Carpentier Alain , Menasché Philippe , Hagège Albert A. , Levine Robert A.
Published: September 2010

Background—

One of the key targets in treating mitral regurgitation (MR) is reducing the otherwise progressive left ventricular (LV) remodeling that exacerbates MR and conveys adverse prognosis. We have previously demonstrated that severing 2 second-order chordae to the anterior mitral leaflet relieves tethering and ischemic MR acutely. The purpose of this study was to test whether this technique reduces the progression of LV remodeling in the chronic ischemic MR setting.

Methods and Results—

A posterolateral MI was created in 18 sheep by obtuse marginal branch ligation. After chronic remodeling and MR development at 3 months, 6 sheep were randomized to sham surgery (control group) and 12 to second-order chordal cutting (6 each to anterior leaflet [AntL] and bileaflet [BiL] chordal cutting, techniques that are in clinical application). At baseline, chronic infarction (3 months), and follow-up at a mean of 6.6 months post-myocardial infarction (MI) (euthanasia), we measured LV end-diastolic (EDV) and end-systolic volume (ESV), ejection fraction, wall motion score index, and posterior leaflet (PL) restriction angle relative to the annulus by 2D and 3D echocardiography. All measurements were comparable among groups at baseline and chronic MI. At euthanasia, AntL and BiL chordal cutting limited the progressive remodeling seen in controls. LVESV increased relative to chronic MI by 109±8.7% in controls versus 30.5±6.1% with chordal cutting (
P
<0.01) (LVESV in controls, 82.5±2.6 mL; in AntL, 60.6±5.1 mL; in BiL, 61.8±4.1 mL). LVEDV increased by 63±2.0% in controls versus 26±5.5% and 22±3.4% with chordal cutting (
P
<0.01). LV ejection fraction and wall motion score index were not significantly different at follow-up among the chordal cutting and control groups. MR progressively increased to moderate in controls but decreased to trace-mild with AntL and BiL chordal cutting (MR vena contracta in controls, 5.9±1.1 mm; in AntL, 2.6±0.1 mm; in BiL, 1.7±0.1 mm;
P
<0.01). BiL chordal cutting provided greater PL mobility (decreased PL restriction angle to 54.2±5.0° versus 83±3.2° with AntL chordal cutting;
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

Reduced leaflet tethering by chordal cutting in the chronic post-MI setting substantially decreases the progression of LV remodeling with sustained reduction of MR over a chronic follow-up. These benefits have the potential to improve clinical outcomes.
Policing Juveniles
Authors: Strom Kevin J. , Warner Tara D. , Tichavsky Lisa , Zahn Margaret A.
Published: September 2010

This study analyzed the National Incident Based Reporting System data from 2000 to 2004 to determine how domestic violence arrest policies, along with incident, offender, and victim characteristics, influence arrest outcomes in violent incidents committed by juveniles against their parents. The authors’ primary interest was to assess whether the enforcement of domestic violence arrest laws, coupled with increased police involvement in familial disputes, has contributed to the decreasing gender gap in juvenile arrests for violent offenses. Results indicated that domestic violence arrest policies had positive effects on arrest outcomes both for juvenile females and males accused of assaulting a parent, as juveniles were more likely to be arrested in states with mandatory or pro-arrest policies than in states with discretionary arrest policies. However, there was also evidence that, beyond the effects of the domestic arrest laws, girls became increasingly more likely to be arrested for assaults against parents over the 5-year study period relative to boys. The implications for these findings are discussed, including the importance of a better understanding of how police respond to domestic violence incidents involving juveniles.
Impact of Hospital Unit Design for Patient-Centered Care on Nurses’ Behavior
Authors: Seo Hyun-Bo , Choi Young-Seon , Zimring Craig
Published: September 2010

In an effort to be more patient- and family-centered, many hospitals have recently provided nursing units that provide more space and amenities for family members. However, these units raise a concern that larger unit size might cause nurses to walk longer distance and spend more time for traveling in the hallway rather than time at bedside. Although it may be counterintuitive, a unit that is designed for patient-centered care, despite being larger with extra space for family members, may not necessarily increase nurses’ walking distance. Through observations, this exploratory study compares nurses’ trips to procure medications in a smaller intensive care unit (ICU) and those in a larger ICU designed for patient-centered care. The smaller unit observed has global visibility to most of patient rooms, and the larger unit has local visibility from distributed substations to patient rooms. The comparison showed that nurses did not walk longer and spend more time getting medication in the larger unit. They did interact less and made fewer extra stops than the smaller unit. Unlike some studies, nurses did not walk further in a larger unit. This study suggests that visibility, the presence of substations, and location of medications can reduce walking. This needs verification in further research.
On the Varieties of People’s Relationships With Places
Authors: Lewicka Maria
Published: September 2010

Numerous studies show that place attachment correlates positively with age, length of residence and strength of local ties and negatively with community size, education, and economic development of the region of residence. Does that mean that along with education, mobility, economic development and urbanization and with the decrease in importance of local ties and territorial belonging, place attachment will wane? In a large representative survey carried out in Poland ( N = 2,556) new measures of relationships with place and of identity (both territorial and nonterritorial) were used. Cluster analysis revealed five clusters: two types of place attachment (traditional and active attachment) and three types of nonattachment (alienation, place relativity, and placelessness), corresponding to David Hummon’s five types of sense of community. Whereas correlates of traditional attachment replicated the pattern known from other studies (e.g., traditional attachment was strongly positively correlated with age and negatively with education), active attachment was related positively to education and curvilinearly to age, with middle-aged participants the most frequently represented. Traditional place attachment was based solely on local identity, active place attachment was associated with European and nonterritorial identity, along with the local attachment. A number of other measures differentiated the five types: values, measures of social and cultural capital, self- and group-continuity measures, and general life satisfaction. It is concluded that places do preserve their importance in times of intensive urbanization, migration, and economic development, but that the form of place attachment changes: the active- and self-conscious attachment replaces the traditional attachment.
A Cross-Cultural Assessment of Three Theories of Pro-Environmental Behavior
Authors: Cordano Mark , Welcomer Stephanie , Scherer Robert F. , Pradenas Lorena , Parada Víctor
Published: September 2010

We surveyed business students in the United States ( n = 256) and Chile ( n = 310) to compare three theories of pro-environmental behavior.We examined Ajzen and Fishbein’s theory of reasoned action, Schawartz’s norm activation theory, and the values-beliefs-norms theory created by Stern, Dietz, Abel, Guagnano, and Kalof. We produced reliable measures for both samples. Each theory explained a significant amount of the variance in behavioral intention, although no theory clearly dominated for either the United States or Chile. However, among the variables included among these theories, the norms variable consistently produced the strongest relationship with behavioral intention. We discuss avenues of future research focusing on norms and more parsimonious combinations of the variables across these three theories.
Self-Efficacy and Intrinsic Motivation Guiding Environmental Behavior
Authors: Tabernero Carmen , Hernández Bernardo
Published: September 2010

The authors examine whether self-efficacy relates to the environmentally responsible behavior of recycling and whether intrinsic motivation serves to mediate the relationship between self-efficacy and recycling. The authors measure those constructs, along with extrinsic motivation and the self- regulatory behaviors of satisfaction with and intentions toward recycling. Residents ( n = 1,501) of 55 localities in Cordoba Spain are interviewed at home. Results show that all variables are positively related to self-reported recycling, except that extrinsic motivation is negatively related to recycling. As the authors hypothesize, the relationship between self-efficacy and recycling diminishes when intrinsic motivation is added to the model, which suggests that intrinsic motivation accounts for some of the relationship between self-efficacy and recycling. With the use of structural equation modelling, all variables, except extrinsic motivation, provide a good model fit; explained variance in reported in-home recycling is also substantial (adjusted R2 = .45). The meditational analysis provides insight regarding the dynamics of motivation; the model suggests that self-efficacy relates to recycling directly, by giving rise to intrinsic motivation, which in turn relates to recycling.
Effects of Working Memory Load and Repeated Scenario Exposure on Emergency Braking Performance
Authors: Engström Johan , Aust Mikael Ljung , Viström Matias
Published: September 2010

Objective: The objective of the present study was to examine the effect of working memory load on drivers’ responses to a suddenly braking lead vehicle and whether this effect (if any) is moderated by repeated scenario exposure.

Background: Several experimental studies have found delayed braking responses to lead vehicle braking events during concurrent performance of nonvisual, working memory—loading tasks, such as hands-free phone conversation. However, the common use of repeated, and hence somewhat expected, braking events may undermine the generalizability of these results to naturalistic, unexpected, emergency braking scenarios.

Method: A critical lead vehicle braking scenario was implemented in a fixed-based simulator. The effects of working memory load and repeated scenario exposure on braking performance were examined.

Results: Brake response time was decomposed into accelerator pedal release time and accelerator-to-brake pedal movement time. Accelerator pedal release times were strongly reduced with repeated scenario exposure and were delayed by working memory load with a small but significant amount (178 ms). The two factors did not interact. There were no effects on accelerator-to-brake pedal movement time.

Conclusion:The results suggest that effects of working memory load on response performance obtained from repeated critical lead vehicle braking scenarios may be validly generalized to real world unexpected events.

Application: The results have important implications for the interpretation of braking performance in experimental settings, in particular in the context of safety-related evaluation of in-vehicle information and communication technologies.
A survey of verbal and physical assaults towards psychiatrists in Turkey
Authors: Altınbaş Kürşat , Altınbaş Gülçin , Türkcan Ahmet , Oral E. Timuçin , Walters James
Published: September 2010

Background: Assaults on health professionals have been an area of burgeoning clinical and political interest in recent years. There is now a body of literature suggesting that violence towards psychiatrists is more common than to other doctors. Thus far the vast majority of research in this area has been conducted in Western European and North American clinical settings. For the first time, this study examines this issue in the context of Turkish psychiatric settings.

Objective: (i) The study aims to detect the prevalence of verbal and physical assaults towards psychiatrists in Turkey. (ii) It aims to compare the experience of verbal and physical assaults according to the gender and training experience of psychiatrists. (iii) The paper intends to investigate how psychiatrists reacted to and appraised the experience of violence.

Methods: A questionnaire was prepared to evaluate violence towards psychiatrists (adapted from the Overt Agression Scale). The questionaire was administered to psychiatric specialists and residents working in state hospitals, research and training hospitals, mental health hospitals and university psychiatry clinics. A response rate of 93% was achieved with 186 out of 200 psychiatrsits approached completing the study questionnaire.

Results: Of all the psychiatrists who responded, 71% reported having experienced verbal or physical assaults during their professional life (verbal assaults only (19.9%), physical assaults only (2.7%) and both (48.4%)). Of these, 26% suffered injury to at least a mild degree. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of gender and workplace. In spite of the extremely high rates of aggression and violence towards psychiatrists, roughly 50% perceived these acts a normal part of their job and only 5% formally reported the violent incident.

Conclusion: The majority of psychiatrists described having been victims of verbal and physical assaults although half perceived aggression and violence as a normal part of their job. Levels of reporting of violence were very low in the context of this study. Studies such as this provide evidence to inform the development of improved management of violence and may encourage psychiatrists to report violence.
Reliability of the Camberwell Assessment of Need for South African mental health service users
Authors: Flisher Alan , Sorsdahl Katherine , Joska John
Published: September 2010

Background: The Camberwell Assessment of Need (CAN) is a widely used instrument to assess the service needs for people with a severe mental illness. No reliability data are available for its use in South Africa.

Method: Interrater and test-retest reliability were documented for a sub-sample of 194 patients participating in a needs assessment study among people receiving mental health services. Initially, the CAN was administered by one field worker, while another observed and also made ratings. The participant was then re-interviewed approximately one week after the initial interview.

Results: With the exception of ‘psychotic symptoms’ ( κ = -0.4) and ‘looking after home’ ( κ = 0.008), Cohen’s κ coefficients for interrater reliability ranged from 0.150 to 0.760 for Section 1 of the CAN. Test-retest reliabilities for Section 1 resulted in moderate to substantial agreement, with Cohen’s κ coefficient ranging from 0.25 to 0.81. High correlations were reported for the test-retest reliabilities of the remaining sections of the CAN ( r = 0.719–0.845). However, the figures for the interrater reliabilities were lower and more variable ( r = −0.082–0.408).

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that with additional interviewer training, the CAN is a relatively reliable instrument for assessing the needs of youths with severe mental illness.
The case for asset-based interventions with indigenous peoples: Evidence from Hawai‘i
Authors: Rothwell David W.
Published: September 2010

Two movements are shaping social work in Hawai’i in the era of globalization: (a) the Assets Movement, and (b) the Indigenous Peoples Movement. Data from an asset-based Individual Development Account (IDA) program for indigenous Hawaiians are analyzed. Findings suggest that, under certain conditions, asset-based interventions may promote social development among indigenous peoples.
The development of a youth mentoring program in the south of India
Authors: Pryce Julia , Niederkorn Alison , Goins Margaret , Reiland Melissa
Published: September 2010

This article illustrates the challenges and opportunities involved as a US-based research team assists in the development of a culturally-informed youth mentoring program in rural India. Based on data from youth and adult stakeholders, a mentoring curriculum was developed and piloted. Lessons learned illuminate how context influences youth development programs and conceptualization of mentoring relationships. Implications for similar international initiatives are discussed.
Tobacco Cessation Intervention for People With Disabilities: Survey of Center for Independent Living Directors
Authors: Moorhouse Michael D. , Pomeranz Jamie L. , Barnett Tracey E. , Yu Nami S. , Curbow Barbara A.
Published: September 2010

People with disabilities (PWD) are 50% more likely to smoke compared with the general population, yet interventions tailored to the needs of PWD remain limited. The authors surveyed directors from a leading disability service organization to assess their delivery of tobacco cessation interventions. Although tobacco cessation was identified as a high priority, directors reported that they are ill-equipped to deliver tobacco cessation interventions. To properly address the unique challenges that PWD face when quitting tobacco, disability sensitive cessation interventions are needed.
Analysis of upper physical characteristics based on angle measurements
Authors: Chen Chin-Man
Published: September 2010

Body-shape analysis has been used in fields such as anthropology, anthropometry, and medicine. Apparel producers also use anthropometric methods, attempting to incorporate physical characteristics into apparel patterns to improve garment fit. The purpose of this study was to quantify upper physical characteristics of 103 female college students whose shoulder slope, bust prominence, back curvature, and acromion placement were measured using a 3D body scanner and two software systems. Analysis of the angle data shows that landmark definitions vary in the apparel and anthropometry fields and that the left/right angles of shoulder slope, bust prominence, back curvature, and acromion placement are asymmetrical. Also certain physical variations are correlated with one another. Future research may focus on using angle measurements to develop stimuli for investigating body shapes, predicting intake of bust, back, and waist darts on block patterns, and evaluating how standing posture affects apparel fit.
Gender, History and ‘Small Europe’
Authors: Malečková Jitka
Published: September 2010

Gender is a good place from which to start reflections on European history: gender history deliberately transcends borders and, at the same time, demonstrates the difficulties of writing European, or transnational, history. Focusing on recent syntheses of modern European history, both general works and those specifically devoted to gender, the article asks what kind of Europe emerges from the encounter between gender and history. It suggests that the writing of European history includes either Eastern Europe (and, sometimes, the Ottoman Empire) or a gender perspective, but seldom both. Thus, the projects of integrating a European dimension into gender history and gender into European history remain unfinished. The result is a history of a rather ‘small Europe’.
What, Where and Why is Europe? Some Answers from Recent Historiography
Authors: Nielsen Philipp
Published: September 2010

Writing the history of a continent is generally a tricky business. If the continent is not even a real continent, but rather ‘a western peninsula of Asia’ (Alexander von Humboldt) without a clear definition of where the continent becomes peninsula, things do not get any easier. Despite these problems there is no dearth of trying. In fact, writing European histories seems to become more fashionable by the year — ironically just as the political and institutional expansion of Europe is losing steam. While the European Union is catching its breath, the historians are catching up. With the first wave of post-Euro and post-big-bang-Enlargement literature written, it is time for the reviewer to survey the landscape — and to provide some guideposts for future exploration.
Introduction: Current Challenges of Writing European History
Authors: Cole Laurence , Ther Philipp
Published: September 2010

Reflecting on how the parameters and content of European history have changed since the foundation of European History Quarterly 40 years ago, the article considers also the impact on European history of general developments within the historical discipline, such as the spread of cultural history, the various ‘turns’ of postmodernism, and the ‘globalization of historiography’. It suggests that European history can only be considered to be ‘in crisis’, if the field is understood as the sum of national histories. It further explores the ways in which European history has become increasingly ‘Europeanized’ and the problems encountered in this process.
Variation in GNB3 predicts response and adverse reactions to antidepressants
Authors: Keers Robert , Bonvicini Cristian , Scassellati Catia , Uher Rudolf , Placentino Anna , Giovannini Caterina , Rietschel Marcella , Henigsberg Neven , Kozel Dejan , Mors Ole , Maier Wolfgang , Hauser Joanna , Souery Daniel , Mendlewicz Julien , Schmäl Christine , Zobel Astrid , Larsen Erik R , Szczepankiewicz Aleksandra , Kovacic Zrnka , Elkin Amanda , Craig Ian , McGuffin Peter , Farmer Anne E , Aitchison Katherine J , Gennarelli Massimo
Published: September 2010

There is substantial inter-individual variation in response and adverse reactions to antidepressants, and genetic variation may, in part, explain these differences. GNB3 encodes the β3 subunit of the G protein complex, which is involved in the downstream signalling cascade following monoamine receptor activation. A functional polymorphism in this gene (C825T) has been associated with response to antidepressants. Several lines of evidence suggest that GNB3 moderates improvement in the neurovegetative symptoms of depression (such as sleep and appetite) and related adverse reactions independently of change in core mood symptoms. We here report analysis of data from GENDEP, a part-randomized pharmacogenomic trial, on the outcome of 811 subjects with major depression undergoing treatment with either escitalopram or nortriptyline in which the C825T SNP and three further SNPs in GNB3 were genotyped. The TT genotype was significantly associated with a superior response to nortriptyline and these effects were specific to improvements in neurovegetative symptoms. In addition, the same genotype predicted fewer incidents of treatment-emergent insomnia and greater weight gain on the same drug. Our results are consistent with previous associations with GNB3 and emphasize the importance of signalling genes in antidepressant response.
Flow Cytometry in Veterinary Oncology
Authors: Reggeti F. , Bienzle D.
Published: September 2010

Flow cytometry is a highly sensitive and specific method for simultaneous analysis of multiple parameters of individual cells in a suspension. It has a range of applications in veterinary medicine, and it is increasingly used in veterinary oncology as more species-specific antibodies are generated and cross-reactivity of antibodies is characterized. Two major applications in veterinary oncology are (1) immunophenotyping with a panel of fluorescently labeled antibodies to assess expression of cell markers and (2) determination of the DNA content of cells with fluorescent dyes that bind nucleic acids. The diagnostic and prognostic value of classifying round cell tumors of animals—especially, lymphocyte proliferations—remains to be fully determined, but studies to date have indicated benefit to patient management. Similarly, determining the proliferating fraction of tumors through DNA analysis remains to be standardized and validated in veterinary oncology but shows promise as an adjunct to morphologic tumor classification. This article reviews technical aspects of flow cytometry, availability of antibodies suitable for studies in domestic animals, and applications in veterinary oncology with emphasis on characterization of round cell tumors.
Drug-Intake Methods and Social Identity: The Use of Marijuana in Blunts Among Southeast Asian Adolescents and Emerging Adults
Authors: Soller Brian , Lee Juliet P.
Published: September 2010

This article examines why Southeast Asian American adolescents and emerging adults in two urban settings prefer to use “blunts,” or hollowed-out cigars filled with marijuana, over other methods of drug intake. Rationales for preferring blunts were both instrumental and social. Blunts allowed users to more easily share marijuana, the preferred drug among their peers, and protected against potential adverse effects associated with the “high.” Blunts also allowed users to identify with the dominant style of drug use and differentiate themselves from users of stigmatized drugs such as crack cocaine and methamphetamine. This article highlights the importance of drug-intake methods in the formation and performance of drug-using behaviors among adolescents, emerging adults, and members of ethnic minority subgroups.
Effect of cesium radioisotope on humoral immune status in Ukrainian children with clinical symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome related to Chernobyl disaster
Authors: Sheikh Sajjadieh M.R. , Kuznetsova L.V. , Bojenko V.B.
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study is to determine humoral immune status in Ukrainian children with clinical symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome 23 years after the Chernobyl disaster. Method and material: The test population consisted of 95 participants: 75 rural patients aged 4—18, who lived in a contaminated area exposed to natural environmental radiation (falling under three groups) and 20 healthy urban participants from Kiev aged 5—15 as a control group. Internal radiation activity has been measured by gamma-ray spectrometry. B-lymphocytes population was analyzed with monoclonal antibody against antigen CD22+. Serum immunoglobulins were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. p < 0.05 was considered significant. Result: The percentage of CD22+ in study groups is increased significantly in comparison to control group at p < 0.05. Reduced serum immunoglobulins levels have developed in the majority of the participants. Conclusion: Humoral immune status of study groups with clinical symptom of irritable bowel syndrome residing in a contaminated area has changed.
What Should EDA Fund? Developing a Model for Preassessment of Economic Development Investments
Authors: Watts Brad R. , Erickcek George A. , Duritsky Jacob , O'Brien Kevin , Robey Claudette , Robey James
Published: September 2010

This article describes a comprehensive study of regionalism conducted by a joint team of economists and economic development specialists for the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). The project consisted of two main activities: an examination of the factors associated with economic development success and the creation of a practical interactive tool for EDA project assessment and comparison. Findings from surveys, interviews, and project case studies are discussed in terms of their support for a positive relationship between successful economic development efforts and factors such as leadership and private investment. The authors also discuss the creation of a quantitative assessment model using well-known approaches such as economic impact multipliers and cluster theory. The primary contribution of this work to the existing body of EDAfocused research and evaluation literature is its introduction of a means of using standardized scores, also known as z-scores, to compare and assess economic development projects across both industries and regions.
Closed-form confidence intervals for functions of the normal mean and standard deviation
Authors: Donner Allan , Zou GY
Published: September 2010

Confidence interval methods for a normal mean and standard deviation are well known and simple to apply. However, the same cannot be said for important functions of these parameters. These functions include the normal distribution percentiles, the Bland–Altman limits of agreement, the coefficient of variation and Cohen's effect size. We present a simple approach to this problem by using variance estimates recovered from confidence limits computed for the mean and standard deviation separately. All resulting confidence intervals have closed forms. Simulation results demonstrate that this approach performs very well for limits of agreement, coefficients of variation and their differences.
Quality of Life for Children With Life-Limiting and Life-Threatening Illnesses: Description and Evaluation of a Regional, Collaborative Model for Pediatric Palliative Care
Authors: Rogers Susan K. , Gomez Carlos F. , Carpenter Philip , Farley Jean , Holson Debbie , Markowitz Miriam , Rood Brian , Smith Karen , Nigra Peter
Published: September 2010

The care of children in the U.S. with life-limiting illnesses is inadequate. Misallocated resources, flawed assumptions and models of care, and a lack of appropriate professional education foster a costly, inefficient system that falls short of its true potential. This article details the evolution of a regional, shared approach to address these issues, the District of Columbia Pediatric Palliative Care Collaboration (DCPPCC), and includes its evolution, preliminary clinical results, and assessment of barriers encountered.
The Use of High Doses of Oxycodone in an Acute Palliative Care Unit
Authors: Mercadante Sebastiano , Ferrera Patrizia , David Fabrizio , Casuccio Alessandra
Published: September 2010

A retrospective study of patients who were prescribed controlled-release oxycodone (CRO) in a period of 3 years (2006-2008) was performed. A total of 212 patients were prescribed at discharge CRO for background analgesia; 129, 43, and 40 patients were prescribed doses of oxycodone of less than 120 mg/day (group L), 120 to 240 mg/day (group M), and more than 240 mg/day (group L), respectively. No differences in gender, primary diagnosis, and pain mechanisms were found, but doses were significantly lower in older patients (P < .0005). At discharge, adverse effects were mild and only a minority of patients were switched to other opioids. This study demonstrated that CRO administered in larger doses was safe and effective, showing versatility and flexibility similar to morphine.
Mathematics Assessment Accommodations: Implications of Differential Boost for Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: Lindstrom Jennifer H.
Published: September 2010

The inclusion of students with learning disabilities (LD) in assessment is deemed critical to improve the quality of educational opportunities for these students and to provide meaningful and useful information about student performance. Mandated inclusion and accountability for progress raise many interesting questions regarding how to fairly, effectively, and validly assess students with LD. This article summarizes and discusses current research on the differential boost theory as a measure of validity when accommodations are used on mathematics tests. Specific recommendations for determining appropriate testing accommodations, and the role instructional accommodations play in this process, are provided.
Teaching Algebra to Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: Impecoven-Lind Linda S. , Foegen Anne
Published: September 2010

Algebra is a gateway to expanded opportunities, but it often poses difficulty for students with learning disabilities. Consequently, it is essential to identify evidence-based instructional strategies for these students. The authors begin by identifying three areas of algebra difficulty experienced by students with disabilities: cognitive processes, content foundations, and algebra concepts. The authors next describe three evidence-based strategies for addressing these needs: classwide peer-tutoring, cognitive strategy instruction, and explicit instructional routines.
Grassroots Mobilization in the Digital Age
Authors: Vining Richard L.
Published: September 2010

This study examines how ten interest groups used electronic mail to mobilize their supporters in response to the Supreme Court nominations of John G. Roberts, Jr., Harriet Miers, and Samuel A. Alito, Jr. The effects of group characteristics and goals, the dynamics of the confirmation process, and prior behavior are evaluated. Logit results reveal that group traits and preferences influence the likelihood of requests for action and donations. Funding requests were also conditioned by the stage of the process. The findings show that interest groups use Supreme Court turnover as an opportunity for political advocacy and organizational maintenance.
Are Blacks and Latinos Responsible for the Passage of Proposition 8? Analyzing Voter Attitudes on California’s Proposal to Ban Same-Sex Marriage in 2008
Authors: Abrajano Marisa
Published: September 2010

On November 4, 2008, the majority of California’s electorate supported a ban on same-sex marriage. Anecdotal evidence attributes its passage to increased turnout among black and Latino voters. This article determines whether this was so; it also examines whether blacks and Latinos were more likely than whites to oppose same-sex marriage, even when accounting for religiosity and political attitudes. Had black and Latino turnout remained at the same level as in the 2004 presidential election, Proposition 8 would still have passed. Moreover, blacks were more likely to favor a ban on same-sex marriage when compared to whites.
Bringing Out the Hook
Authors: Lawrence Regina G. , Rose Melody
Published: September 2010

In this article the authors measure a phenomenon they name “exit talk”: the undertheorized pressures that second-place contenders for presidential nominations face to exit the race. Content analysis of media exit talk from the 2008 Clinton candidacy compared with that of key comparators from other modern presidential campaigns suggests that Clinton experienced greater levels of exit talk than her historical comparators, though less explicit pressure to exit than was exerted on Ronald Reagan in 1976. The authors also find that a higher percentage of Clinton exit talk was unattributed to its source. They investigate the potential causes for these findings and recommend further study of whether this heightened pressure to exit constitutes an unexamined hurdle for female presidential contenders.
Transfusions increase with nationally driven reimbursement changes of erythropoiesis stimulating agents for chemotherapy-induced anemia
Authors: Yu Janny ManYan , Shord Stacy S , Cuellar Sandra
Published: September 2010

Background. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a national coverage determination (NCD) in July 2007, which imposed restrictions on the reimbursement of ESAs for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. Since a majority of our patients are Medicare or Medicaid beneficiaries, we changed our clinical practice regarding the use of erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) to coincide with the NCD’s reimbursement restriction.

Objective. To evaluate the number of transfusions in patients diagnosed with chemotherapy-induced anemia (CIA) receiving ESAs before and after the clinical practice was changed at the University of Illinois Medical Center (UIMC).

Methods. The medical records of all adult patients diagnosed with a nonmyeloid malignancy and CIA who received an ESA between July 2006 and June 2008 at the UIMC were evaluated. The patients were divided into two groups: patients in receipt of ESAs BEFORE (group 1) and AFTER (group 2). The number of transfusions, the response rates to chemotherapy and ESAs therapy, and overall survival were compared.

Results. Medical records for 110 patients were reviewed. More transfusions were given to patients AFTER we implemented the change in clinical practice (BEFORE 18 transfusions vs. AFTER 52 transfusions, p = 0.004). More patients responded to ESA therapy AFTER we implemented the change (67% vs. 83%, p = NS). The treatment response to chemotherapy and overall survival were similar between the two groups.

Conclusion. The primary goal of reducing the number of transfusions in patients with CIA by administering ESAs cannot be met when clinical practice coincides with the NCD.
Online adaptive learning for team strategies in multi-agent systems
Authors: Hudas Greg , Vamvoudakis Kyriakos G , Mikulski Dariusz , Lewis Frank L
Published: September 2010

During mission execution in military applications, the TRADOC Pamphlet 525-66 Battle Command and Battle Space Awareness capabilities prescribe expectations that networked teams will perform in a reliable manner under changing mission requirements and changing team and individual objectives. In this paper we first present an overall view for dynamical decision-making in teams, both cooperative and competitive. Strategies for team decision problems, including optimal control, N-player games ( H∞ control, non-zero sum) and so on are normally solved offline by solving associated matrix equations such as the coupled Riccati equations or coupled Hamilton–Jacobi equations. However, using that approach, players cannot change their objectives online in real time without calling for a completely new offline solution for the new strategies. Therefore, in this paper we give a method for learning optimal team strategies online in real time as team dynamical play unfolds. In the linear quadratic regulator case, for instance, the method learns the coupled Riccati equations solution online without ever solving the coupled Riccati equations. This allows for truly dynamical team decisions where objective functions can change in real time and the system dynamics can be time-varying.
Language Learning Motivation in Early Adolescents: Using Mixed Methods Research to Explore Contradiction
Authors: Wesely Pamela M.
Published: September 2010

This mixed methods study with an Explanatory Design is an exploration of students’ language learning motivation as it relates to their attrition from a language immersion program. A total of 131 students who had graduated from five public elementary immersion schools responded to surveys, and 33 of those students were interviewed. Data analysis procedures included a theme analysis of the interview data, a statistical analysis of the survey data, and an integrated consideration of the qualitative and quantitative findings. It was found that mixed methods research can be uniquely revealing about social psychological constructs such as motivation, it can offer new perspectives where previous studies were contradictory, and it can accommodate multiple theoretical frameworks.
A Mixed Methods Evaluation of a 12-Week Insurance-Sponsored Weight Management Program Incorporating Cognitive-Behavioral Counseling
Authors: Abildso Christiaan , Zizzi Sam , Gilleland Diana , Thomas James , Bonner Daniel
Published: September 2010

Physical activity is critical in healthy weight loss, yet there is still much to be learned about psychosocial mechanisms of physical activity behavior change in weight loss. A sequential mixed methods approach was used to assess the physical and psychosocial impact of a 12-week cognitive—behavioral weight management program and explore factors associated with weight loss. Quantitative data (N = 55) revealed program completion rate and mean percentage weight loss that compare favorably with other interventions, and differential psychosocial impacts on those losing more weight. Telephone interviews (n = 11) revealed four potential mechanisms for these differential impacts: (a) fostering accountability, (b) balancing perceived effort and success, (c) redefining ‘‘success,’’ and (d) developing cognitive flexibility.
Microstructure and thermal conductivity of spark plasma sintering AlN ceramics
Authors: He X. , Ye F. , Liu L. M. , Zhang H. J.
Published: September 2010

Dense aluminium nitride ceramics were prepared by spark plasma sintering at a lower sintering temperature of 1700°C with Y2O3, Sm2O3 and Dy2O3 as sintering additives respectively. The effects of three kinds of sintering additives on the phase composition, microstructure and thermal conductivity of AlN ceramics were investigated. The results showed that those sintering additives not only facilitated the densification via the liquid phase sintering mechanism, but also improved thermal conductivity by decreasing oxygen impurity. Sm2O3 could effectively improve thermal conductivity of AlN ceramics compared with Y2O3 and Dy2O3. Observation by scanning electron microscopy showed that AlN ceramics prepared by spark plasma sintering method manifested quite homogeneous microstructures, but AlN grain sizes and shapes and location of secondary phases varied with the sintering additives. The thermal conductivity of AlN ceramics was mainly affected by the additives through their effects on the growth of AlN grain and the location of secondary phases.