bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chorea as the First and Only Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Poil Abdul Razzakh , Yousef Khan Fahmi , Lutf Abdo , Hammoudeh Mohammed
Published: September 2012

We report a case of right-sided hemichorea associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a female patient who presented with involuntary movements of hand and foot, without any other manifestation of SLE. Further workup showed positive tests for antinuclear antibody, anti-Smith antibody, anti-dsDNA, and antiphospholipid antibody (aPL). The patient was started on aspirin and hydroxychloroquine and her chorea resolved after three weeks of followup. This is one of the few reported cases of SLE where chorea is presented as the first and only manifestation of SLE.
Bioelectrical Impedance and Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry Assessments of Changes in Body Composition Following Exercise in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Miyatani Masae , Yang Pearl , Thomas Scott , Craven B. Catharine , Oh Paul
Published: September 2012

We aimed to compare the level of agreement between leg-to-leg bioelectrical impedance analysis (LBIA) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) for assessing changes in body composition following exercise intervention among individuals with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Forty-four adults with T2DM, age53.2±9.1years; BMI30.8±5.9 kg/m2participated in a 6-month exercise program with pre and post intervention assessments of body composition. Fat free mass (FFM), % body fat (%FM) and fat mass (FM) were measured by LBIA (TBF-300A) and DXA. LBIA assessments of changes in %FM and FM post intervention showed good relative agreements with DXA variables (P<0.001). However, Bland-Altman plot(s) indicated that there were systematic errors in the assessment of the changes in body composition using LBIA compared to DXA such that, the greater the changes in participant body composition, the greater the disparity in body composition data obtained via LBIA versus DXA data (FFM,P=0.013; %FM,P<0.001; FM,P<0.001). In conclusion, assessment of pre and post intervention body composition implies that LBIA is a good tool for assessment qualitative change in body composition (gain or loss) among people with T2DM but is not sufficiently sensitive to track quantitative changes in an individual’s body composition.
Coexisting Malignant Melanoma and Blue Nevus of the Uterine Cervix: An Unusual Combination
Authors: Parada David , Peña Karla B. , Riu Frances
Published: September 2012

Malignant melanoma (MM) and blue nevi of the uterine cervix are an extremely rare neoplasm, probably derived from embryologic migration of melanocytes from the neural crest. MM displays aggressive behavior with a poor prognosis. We report the case of a 76-year-old postmenopausal woman abnormal vaginal bleeding. She underwent a hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy with paraaortic-iliac lymphadenectomy. Histopathological and immunohistochemical studies were consistent with the diagnosis of MM and blue nevi in the uterine cervix. Although it is extremely rare, this case suggests that MM of the uterine cervix should be considered in the differential diagnosis of undifferentiated neoplasm. Early diagnosis is essential in order to warrant a better prognosis, although there are no cases of cure described.
Synthesis of Some Salicylaldehyde‐Based Schiff Bases in Aqueous Media
Authors: Bhagat Sunita , Sharma Nutan , Chundawat Tejpal Singh
Published: September 2012

A new efficient and environmental friendly procedure for the synthesis of a series of salicylaldehyde‐based schiff bases under microwave irradiation is described. The method is compared with the conventional method also. The present work involves condensation of salicylaldehyde with various aromatic amines in water under microwave irradiation. A judicious choice of the solvent and reaction conditions allowed the final products to be generated in excellent yields in a one‐step procedure, whereas experiments under thermal conditions led to lower yields with tedious work‐up. Microwave irradiation method gives advantages like reduction in reaction time, increase in conversion, reduced wastes, and good yields. The structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, 1HNMR, and Mass Spectra data.
Improved Convenient Synthesis of Benzoyl Metronidazole: A Nitroimidazole Antibiotics
Authors: Wang Zhi-zhong , Wang Long , Huang Pei
Published: September 2012

An improved, cost‐effective, and one‐pot method for the synthesis of benzoyl metronidazole was achieved by using N, N′‐carbonyldiimidazole as a coupling reagent. Moreover, the byproduct imidazole as the catalyst promoted the reaction. The procedures are simple and suitable to large‐scale manufactures.
Rat Mcs1b Is Concordant to the Genome-Wide Association-Identified Breast Cancer Risk Locus at Human 5q11.2 and MIER3 is a Candidate Cancer Susceptibility Gene
Authors: denDekker Aaron D. , Xu Xin , Vaughn M. Derek , Puckett Aaron H. , Gardner Louis L. , Lambring Courtney J. , Deschenes Lucas , Samuelson David J.
Published: September 2012

Low-penetrance alleles associated with breast cancer risk have been identified in population-based studies. Most risk loci contain either no or multiple potential candidate genes. Rat mammary carcinoma susceptibility 1b (Mcs1b) is a quantitative trait locus on RN02 that confers decreased susceptibility when Copenhagen (COP)-resistant alleles are introgressed into a Wistar Furth (WF)-susceptible genome. Five WF.COP congenic lines containing COP RN02 segments were compared. One line developed an average of 3.4 ± 2.0 and 5.5 ± 3.6 mammary carcinomas per rat ± SD when females were Mcs1b-resistant homozygous and Mcs1b heterozygous, respectively. These phenotypes were significantly different from susceptible genotype littermates (7.8 ± 3.1 mean mammary carcinomas per rat ± SD, P = 0.0001 and P = 0.0413, respectively). All other congenic lines tested were susceptible. Thus, Mcs1b was narrowed to 1.8 Mb of RN02 between genetic markers ENSRNOSNP2740854 and g2UL2-27. Mammary gland-graft carcinoma susceptibility assays were used to determine that donor (P = 0.0019), but not recipient Mcs1b genotype (P = 0.9381), was associated with ectopic mammary carcinoma outcome. Rat Mcs1b contains sequence orthologous to human 5q11.2, a breast cancer susceptibility locus identified in multiple genome-wide association studies. Human/rat MAP3K1/Map3k1 and mesoderm induction early response (MIER; MIER3)/MIER3 are within these orthologous segments. We identified MIER3 as a candidate Mcs1b gene based on 4.5-fold higher mammary gland levels of MIER3 transcripts in susceptible compared with Mcs1b-resistant females. These data suggest that the human 5q11.2 breast cancer risk allele marked by rs889312 is mammary gland autonomous, and MIER3 is a candidate breast cancer susceptibility gene. Cancer Res; 72(22); 6002–12. ©2012 AACR.
Changes in Serum Levels of Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein after Estrogen and Alendronate Therapy in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Seo Seok Kyo , Yang Hyo In , Lim Kyung Jin , Jeon Young Eun , Choi Young Sik , Cho SiHyun , Lee Byung Seok
Published: September 2012

Background: Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) is a biomarker for joint destruction and its serum levels are used for assessing therapeutic efficacy. This study aims to compare changes in serum COMP levels in postmenopausal women with osteopenia/osteoporosis receiving estrogen and alendronate. Methods: A total of 62 postmenopausal women diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis were treated with either estrogen (17β-estradiol 1 mg, n = 30) or bisphosphonate (alendronate 5 mg, n = 32) for 6 months. The controls were healthy postmenopausal women (n = 30). Serum COMP and osteocalcin levels were measured at baseline and after 6 months of treatment. Results: Estrogen decreased levels of COMP at 6 months compared to baseline levels (–8.35 ± 19.38%), whereas the bisphosphonate and control groups resulted in no significant changes (–5.50 ± 18.69 and –1.49 ± 25.34%, respectively). Concentrations of osteocalcin decreased significantly in both treatment groups (estrogen –25.60 ± 24.42% and alendronate –13.76 ± 23.89%, respectively). There was a significant positive correlation between changes after 6 months in COMP and osteocalcin (R = 0.48, p = 0.002). Conclusions: Postmenopausal women treated with estrogen showed significantly decreased levels of COMP after 6 months. Estrogen might provide a further treatment modality in the prevention of joint destruction.
N-Acetylcysteine Downregulation of Lysyl Oxidase Activity Alleviating Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rats
Authors: Li Shifeng , Yang Xiaoxiao , Li Wande , Li Jingjie , Su Xingwen , Chen Lijun , Yan Guangmei
Published: September 2012

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal lung disease without beneficial therapy, except for lung transplantation. A high oral dose of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) added to prednisone and azathioprine has been found to improve lung function in IPF patients, though the mechanism of action remains poorly understood. Objective: Based on our previous findings showing elevation of glutathione (GSH) content associated with downregulation of lysyl oxidase (LOX) activity, which is essential for collagen deposition, the aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that NAC alleviates IPF by regulating LOX function. Methods: We firstly analyzed the time course of collagen deposition in lung tissue, hydroxyproline content, LOX activity, GSH levels, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) expression in bleomycin (BLM)-induced pulmonary fibrosis in a rat model. Then, we focused our studies on NAC modulation of LOX activity. Results: LOX activity was increased on day 9 and peaked 14 days after BLM administration, while TGF-β1 protein peaked on day 9. Interestingly, NAC treatment for 14 days from day 0 reversed LOX activity to normal levels and increased GSH levels in the lung of BLM-dosed rats. Consistently, NAC partially attenuated pulmonary fibrosis and inhibited TGF-β1 and α-SMA expression in this model. Conclusions: Our study supports a novel mechanism of NAC alleviating IPF by inhibition of LOX activity via elevation of lung GSH in BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis. The TGF-β1/α-SMA pathway may also play an important role in modulation of LOX activity.
Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cells Are Increased in the Early Stages of Halo Nevi: Clinicopathological Features of 30 Halo Nevi
Authors: Park H.S. , Jin S.A. , Choi Y.-D. , Shin M.-H. , Lee S.E. , Yun S.J.
Published: September 2012

Background: There have been few clinical studies of the role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in halo formation of halo nevus. Objective: To evaluate the clinicopathologic features and the presence of Tregs in halo nevi. Methods: We analyzed 30 halo nevi and performed immunohistochemical analysis using antibodies against CD4, CD8, CD25 and Foxp3. We also performed double immunohistochemical staining for Foxp3 and CD25. Results: We found significant increases in Foxp3+ Tregs, and the shorter the halo nevus duration, the more Foxp3+ Tregs were detected. Also, the ratio of Foxp3 to CD8 T cells was increased in early stages of halo nevi. Double immunohistochemical staining suggested that the Tregs in the halo nevi were CD25+Foxp3+ T cells. Conclusions: Foxp3+ Tregs were greatly increased in the halo nevi. The shorter the halo nevi duration, the more Foxp3+ Tregs were involved in the earlier developmental stages of halo nevi.
Dealing with powerlessness: The strategic use of ingroup stereotypes
Authors: Jiménez-Moya Gloria , de Lemus Soledad , Rodríguez-Bailón Rosa , Spears Russell
Published: September 2012

Several studies have shown the impact of legitimacy on dealing with group power disadvantage. In the present paper we focus on the impact of internal legitimacy (i.e., the ingroup's appraisal of the fairness of its own powerless position) on the ingroup stereotype as a way of contesting the power disadvantage. Results show that especially in the internal legitimate conditions (i.e., when the ingroup seems to accept the low status position), participants reacted by way of overemphasizing the positive stereotypic dimension (warmth, Study 1), or contradicting the negative ingroup stereotype (perceiving the ingroup as less incompetent, Study 1 and 2). The last strategy was used especially by those highly identified with the ingroup, and when the legitimate/illegitimate argument is supported by a small ingroup sample (i.e., low social constraint, Study 2). Such responses can be understood as a social creativity strategy to contest the ingroup's disadvantaged and powerless position.
Moral obligation: A forgotten dimension in the analysis of collective action
Authors: Vilas Xiana , Sabucedo José-Manuel
Published: September 2012

This paper investigates the motivational dynamics in political protest. In addition to the classic variables (anger, politicized identity and efficacy), we are including that of the moral obligation to participate. To test the viability of this new proposal, university students' intention to participate in different protest acts were analyzed. The structural equation analysis shows that moral obligation has a direct influence on the intention to participate and acts as a mediator between the other variables and the criterion variable. Politicized identity also has a direct effect, although less significant, on the intention to participate, as well as having a significant bearing on the other three predictive variables. Finally, efficacy and anger have an influence on the intention to participate through moral obligation. This data points towards the necessity to include moral obligation in the explanatory models of collective action.
Feelings of power lead people to take sides with other powerful parties
Authors: Lammers Joris , Yang Huadong
Published: September 2012

It has often been noted that power has various self-reinforcing effects, in the sense that it leads people to support the interests of other powerful people and harm the interests of the powerless. In the current article we investigate this in a fundamental manner and show that the experience of power makes people more inclined to side with parties that are higher in the hierarchy and against parties that are lower in that hierarchy. Two studies demonstrate that people who experience elevated power side with parties higher in the hierarchy and against parties lower in the hierarchy. A third experiment identifies an important moderator: if people sense their power is unfair and illegitimate, this effect is blocked. These results extend our understanding of the effects of power on moral thinking to actual side taking with one party against another in an interpersonal, moral conflict.
Explorando las dimensiones de la preocupación ambiental. Una propuesta integradora
Authors: Amérigo María , Aragonés Juan I. , García Juan A.
Published: September 2012

En este trabajo se propone una estructura teóricamente integrada de cuatro dimensiones sobre preocupación ambiental: apatía, antropocentrismo, conectividad y afinidad emocional. Estas cuatro dimensiones se distribuyen a lo largo de un gradiente de inclusión de la naturaleza en el self. Esta propuesta ha recibido apoyo empírico en un estudio con 514 estudiantes universitarios. La herramienta elaborada permite medir las respectivas dimensiones de la preocupación ambiental y analizar su relación con una medida de la conducta proambiental. Los principales resultados indican que un alto grado de inclusión de la naturaleza en el self se expresa con altas puntuaciones de conectividad y afinidad emocional, mientras que las relaciones se invierten en el caso del antropocentrismo y la apatía medioambiental. Un patrón similar se observa en relación con la conducta proambiental. Se discuten algunas implicaciones con relación a la diferenciación cognitivo/afectivo en las dimensiones de preocupación ambiental.
Exploring the dimensions of environmental concern. An integrative proposal
Authors: Amerigo María , Aragonés Juan I. , García Juan A.
Published: September 2012

This paper proposes a theoretically integrated structure made up of four dimensions pertaining to environmental concern: apathy, anthropocentrism, connectedness and emotional affinity. These four dimensions are distributed along a gradient that reflects the inclusion of nature in the self. This proposal is empirically supported by a study conducted with 514 university students. The tool created is able to measure the respective dimensions of environmental concern and analyze their relationship with a measurement of pro-environmental behaviour. The main findings indicate that a high level of inclusion of nature in the self is expressed through high scores for connectedness and emotional affinity, whereas the relationships are inverted in the case of anthropocentrism and environmental apathy. A similar pattern is observed in relation to pro-environmental behaviour. Some of the implications are discussed with regard to cognitive/affective differentiation in the dimensions of environmental concern.
The search for potential origins of a favorable attitude toward nature
Authors: Roczen Nina , Duvier Caroline , Bogner Franz X. , Kaiser Florian G.
Published: September 2012

The aim of this research was to empirically explore some feasible origins of a favorable attitude toward nature using retrospective and cross-sectional data. In two studies, we specifically examined the role of gratifying experiences in nature. In Study 1, based on interview data of four selected students from a larger sample of previously tested students (N = 217) from a grammar school in Bavaria, Germany, we tested whether two students with previously recognized markedly positive attitudes toward nature recalled more pleasurable and/or restorative experiences in nature than the two students with less favorable attitudes. We found that students with positive attitudes toward nature remembered about twice as many gratifying experiences in nature than did students with comparatively unfavorable attitudes toward nature. In Study 2, based on survey data of 496 students from two other grammar schools in Bavaria, Germany, we further explored the ways by which ease of access to nature and contact with nature could have advanced a positive attitude toward nature. In our theoretically anticipated model, ease of access to nature and contact with nature were effective via gratifying experiences exclusively. Thus, we confirmed that having gratifying experiences is a potential mediator required to convert one's contact with nature into a favorable attitude.
A Method for Adaptive Habit Prediction in Bulk Microphysical Models. Part I: Theoretical Development
Authors: Harrington Jerry Y. , Sulia Kara , Morrison Hugh
Published: September 2012

Bulk microphysical schemes use the capacitance model for ice vapor growth in combination with mass–size relationships to determine the evolution of ice water content (IWC) and ice particle maximum dimension in time. These approaches are limited since a single axis length is used, the aspect ratio is usually held constant and mass–size relations have many available coefficients for similar ice types. Fixing the crystal aspect ratio severs the nonlinear link between aspect ratio changes and increased growth rates that occur during crystal growth. A method is presented here for predicting two crystal axes and the crystal aspect ratio in bulk models. Evolution of the ice mass mixing ratio is tied to the evolution of two axis length mixing ratios through the use of a historical axis ratio parameter containing memory of crystal shape. This parameter links the distributions of the two axes, allowing characterization of particle lengths using a single distribution. The method uses four prognostic variables: the mass and number mixing ratios, and two axis length mixing ratios. Development of the method is presented, with testing described in Part II.
The Illegal as Normative
Authors: Benjamin Orly , Nisim Sarit
Published: September 2012

This article explores the ways in which employers’ organizational networks, as shaped by the emergence of the “contract state” and related changes in the legal environment, affect employment practices. The classic analysis of the ways in which the legal environment benefits elites has successfully been applied to large organizations. Here, from a microsociological perspective, the authors researched how within an ambivalent legal context small and medium size cleaning companies interact with members of their organizational network. Semistructured interviews with cleaning subcontractors illustrate a specific type of standardization process by which the Finance Ministry’s administrative guidelines encourage cleaning companies to ignore workers’ rights and develop illegal employment practices which are then transferred from contracts with state agencies to contracts with private firms purchasing services. The possibility to interpret this process as a form of state power is discussed.
Optical design and thermal analysis of high-power light-emitting diode array modules
Authors: Dai SC , Chen HT
Published: September 2012

In this paper, the optical-thermal characteristics for single-power light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are firstly studied based on experiment and theory, with both results in good agreement. Based on the results of single-power LED, an optical system is proposed with thermal-optical LED array modules, which are assembled upon a spherical base plate with heat sink. By simulation, the optical system is proved to provide uniform illumination. The luminance uniformity of the illuminated target is up to 0.9. The thermal effects under different heat convection coefficient and power consumption on the LED array modules are discussed in detail. Based on the heat transfer characteristics for the LED system, the approximate allowable power consumption for modules can be found.
Focal Points, Endogenous Processes, and Exogenous Shocks in the Autism Epidemic
Authors: Liu Kayuet , Bearman Peter S.
Published: September 2012

Autism prevalence has increased rapidly in the United States during the past two decades. We have previously shown that the diffusion of information about autism through spatially proximate social relations has contributed significantly to the epidemic. This study expands on this finding by identifying the focal points for interaction that drive the proximity effect on subsequent diagnoses. We then consider how diffusion dynamics through interaction at critical focal points, in tandem with exogenous shocks, could have shaped the spatial dynamics of autism in California. We achieve these goals through an empirically calibrated simulation model of the whole population of 3- to 9-year-olds in California. We show that in the absence of interaction at these foci—principally malls and schools—we would not observe an autism epidemic. We also explore the idea that epigenetic changes affecting one generation in the distal past could shape the precise spatial patterns we observe among the next generation.
Traditional bullying as a potential warning sign of cyberbullying
Authors: Kowalski Robin M. , Morgan Chad A. , Limber Susan P.
Published: September 2012

Although traditional bullying and cyberbullying share features in common, they differ in important ways. For example, cyberbullying is often characterized by perceived anonymity and can occur any time of the day or night. Conversely, perpetrators of traditional bullying are known to the victim, and most traditional bullying occurs at school. Yet, some researchers have suggested that involvement in the two types of bullying may be related. However, little research has modeled the system of relationships among the perpetration and victimization of traditional bullying and cyberbullying. The present study uses path analysis to arrive at a suitable model of these relationships, and describes the gender differences in these relationships. Students ( N = 4,531) in grades 6 through 12 completed a survey examining their involvement in traditional bullying and cyberbullying. Analysis proceeded by making fit comparisons among hypothesized path models. More frequent traditional bullying perpetration and victimization were associated with higher frequency of their electronic counterparts. However, the relationship between traditional perpetration and victimization was stronger for females than males as was the effect of traditional victimization on cyber-victimization. Implications for school practitioners are presented.
Affective and cognitive empathy as mediators of gender differences in cyber and traditional bullying
Authors: Topcu Çiğdem , Erdur-Baker Özgür
Published: September 2012

Gender differences in bullying behavior among adolescents have been observed, but the reasons for the discrepancy in males’ and females’ bullying experiences has been the focus of few studies. This study examined the role of the cognitive and affective empathy in explaining gender differences in bullying through multiple mediation analysis. The participants of the study were 795 Turkish adolescents (455 females, 340 males) ranging in age from 13- to 18-years-old. The Revised Cyber Bullying Inventory, Traditional Bullying Questionnaire and Basic Empathy Scale were utilized to gather data from participants. Findings revealed that the total effect of cognitive and affective empathy mediated the gender differences in traditional bullying in addition to the unique effect of affective empathy. However, only the combined effect of affective and cognitive empathy mediated the gender differences in cyberbullying. The findings are discussed in the light of the related literature and implications for practice.
How Case Characteristics Differ across Four Types of Elder Maltreatment
Authors: Jackson Shelly L. , Hafemeister Thomas L.
Published: September 2012

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine whether case characteristics are differentially associated with four forms of elder maltreatment. Method: Triangulated interviews were conducted with 71 APS caseworkers, 55 victims of substantiated abuse whose cases they managed, and 35 third party persons. Results: Pure financial exploitation (PFE) was characterized by victim unawareness of financial exploitation and living alone. Physical abuse (PA) was characterized by victim’s desire to protect the abusive individual. Neglect was characterized by isolation and victim’s residing with the abusive individual. Hybrid financial exploitation (HFE) was characterized by mutual dependency. Implications: These differences indicate the need for tailoring interventions to increase victim safety. PFE requires victims to maintain financial security and independence. PA requires services to meet the needs of abusive individuals. Neglect requires greater monitoring when elderly persons reside with another person. HFE requires the provision of services to both members of the dyad.
Vanishing White Matter With Hepatomegaly and Hypertriglyceridemia Attacks
Authors: Unal Ozlem , Ozgen Burce , Orhan Diclehan , Tokatli Aysegul , Hismi Burcu Ozturk , Dursun Ali , Coskun Turgay , Kalkanoglu-Sivri H. Serap
Published: September 2012

Vanishing white matter disease is one of the most prevalent leukodystrophies in childhood. It is caused by mutations in any of the genes encoding the 5 subunits of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2B (eIF2B), EIF2B1 through EIF2B5. Phenotypic variation is wide and it may affect people of all ages. Here we present a child with vanishing white matter who had hepatomegaly and hypertriglyceridemia attacks along with neurologic deterioration episodes. He was found heterozygous for the 2 mutations c.817 A>C, p.Lys273Gln and c.939_948del, p.Asp314ProfsX23 in the gene EIF2B2. Until today, this association was not defined in the literature.
Gender Differences in the Link Between Excessive Drinking and Domain-Specific Cognitive Functioning Among Older Adults
Authors: Lyu Jiyoung , Lee SeungAh H.
Published: September 2012

Objective: This study investigated gender differences in the relationship between excessive drinking and two cognitive domains among older adults. Method: Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, 3,888 females and 2,350 males were analyzed separately. Multivariate regression was used to analyze the association between excessive drinking and fluid intelligence score. Logistic regression was conducted to examine the relationship between excessive drinking and crystallized intelligence. Results: Multivariate analysis showed that compared to non–excessive drinking, excessive drinking did not have a significant impact on fluid intelligence for either women or men, but it had a significantly negative association with a high crystallized intelligence score for women. Discussion: Findings suggest that the relationship between excessive drinking and cognition varies with gender when crystallized intelligence is measured. Clinicians and service providers should consider gender differences when developing strategies for the prevention and treatment of alcohol-related cognitive decline among older adults.
Effects of lubricant shear thinning on the mixed lubrication of piston skirt-liner system
Authors: Ning Lipu , Meng Xianghui , Xie Youbai
Published: September 2012

A theoretical analysis is presented for the mixed lubrication of the piston skirt-liner system. The model is developed to consider the shear thinning effect of multigrade lubricant. The friction characteristics of the piston skirt-liner system for both monograde and multigrade lubricants are investigated. It is found that a decrease in the lubricant viscosity is effective in reducing the friction loss. However, the boundary friction at the expansion stroke will increase with low lubricant viscosity. Results in this study show a significant lubricant shear thinning effect on the piston skirt-liner system.
Dynamic characteristics of cracked gear and three-dimensional crack propagation analysis
Authors: Shao Renping , Jia Purong , Dong Feifei
Published: September 2012

The dynamic model and three-dimensional finite element analytical model of cracked gear structure are established respectively according to the cracked beam theory, and the dynamic characteristics (natural frequency, vibration shape) of cracked gear body are investigated. Further the influences of crack position and crack length on the dynamic characteristics of gear structure are simulated and discussed. On this basis, the fracture and damage of gear structure are investigated according to the theory of fracture mechanics. Using FRANC3D software, the three-dimensional (3D) propagation of crack at tooth root for involute gear is simulated, and stress intensity factor (SIF)s of semi-circular crack at tooth root including three types are analyzed, their variation laws are gained, then the expressions of SIFs are obtained by numerical fitting FEM results. Based on this, the 3D crack propagation path at tooth root is simulated and discussed, then, it is verified by comparing to experimental results, according to the mutation of the maximum SIF at crack tip, the fracture and damage of gear tooth are judged, and its work life also is predicted. These have very important value for damage monitoring and diagnosis of gear.
The Feasibility, Perceived Satisfaction, and Value of Using Synchronous Webinars to Educate Clinical Research Professionals on Reporting Adverse Events in Clinical Trials
Authors: Borgerson Dawn , Dino Jennifer
Published: September 2012

Clinical research professionals are faced with decreased funding and increased workloads; innovative methods of professional development programs are necessary to accommodate these factors. This study evaluated the feasibility, perceived satisfaction, and value of using webinars to educate clinical research professionals on reporting adverse events commonly experienced in pediatric oncology clinical trials. The setting incorporated synchronous web-based educational technology. Constructivist learning provides the theoretical framework for this study. Participants evaluated the professional development program at 2 time points: (a) at the conclusion and (b) 4 to 6 weeks afterward, using survey method. Synchronous webinars were both economical and effective in educating clinical research professionals across institutional sites. Participants reported exceptionally high levels of satisfaction with the accessibility, scope, quality, and interactivity of the professional development program. The vast majority of participants reported that the education would assist with reporting adverse events in pediatric oncology clinical trials and this perception persisted into clinical practice. Although the results of this study were intended to guide future educational efforts of the Children’s Oncology Group, they may also apply to other cooperative groups.
Correlation of Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio With the Presence and Severity of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Buyukkaya Eyup , Karakaş Mehmet Fatih , Karakaş Esra , Akçay Adnan Burak , Tanboga Ibrahim Halil , Kurt Mustafa , Sen Nihat
Published: September 2012

Purpose: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the criteria comprising metabolic syndrome (MS) and neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a simple and reliable indicator of inflammation. Method: Seventy patients with MS and 71 age- and sex-matched control participants were included. Patients were classified into 3 groups based on the number of MS criteria: group 1 (with 3 criteria), group 2 (with 4 criteria), and group 3 (with 5 criteria). The NLR was calculated from complete blood count. Results: Patients with MS had significantly higher NLR compared to the control group. Moreover, the group 3 patients had higher NLR than those in groups 2 and 1 ( P = .008 and P = .078, respectively), whereas there was no difference between the patients meeting 3 and 4 MS criteria ( P = .320). Besides, NLR increased as the severity of MS increased ( r = .586, P < .001). The cutoff level for NLR with optimal sensitivity and specificity was calculated as 1.84. Serum glucose and high-sensitive C-reactive protein level were found to be independent predictors of an NLR value greater than 1.84. Conclusion: The present study indicated a significant correlation between the criteria of MS and inflammation on the basis of NLR. Furthermore, there an increase in NLR as the severity of MS increases.
Improving Employees’ Interpersonal Communication Competencies
Authors: Hynes Geraldine E.
Published: September 2012

Companies that recognize the relationship between employee engagement and business success will seek ways to foster and facilitate workers’ emotional well-being. One way to encourage employee engagement is to provide training in interpersonal communication. This research analyzes what one U.S.-based company is doing to achieve that goal. The company and the evolution of its communication training program are described, with a focus on an interpersonal communication component. Methods used for evaluating learning outcomes are outlined, along with some results. Finally, this study proposes several implications of this case study for business communication professionals.
Languages and Literacies in Translocation
Authors: Skerrett Allison
Published: September 2012

Transnational youth represent an increasing demographic in societies around the world. This circumstance has amplified the need to understand how youths’ language and literacy repertoires are shaped by transnational life. In response, this article presents a case study of a Mexican adolescent girl who immigrated to the United States and continued to participate in life in Mexico. It examines shifts in her multiple language and literacy practices that she attributed to transnational life and the knowledge she acquired from transnational engagements with languages and literacies. Data include interviews of the young woman, observations of her in a variety of social contexts, and literacy artifacts that she produced. Research on transnational youths’ language and literacy practices and theories of multiliteracies and border crossing facilitate analysis. Findings include that language and multiliteracy practices shift in interconnected ways in response to transnational life and engagements with multiple languages and literacies foster transnational understandings. Accordingly, attending to transnational youths’ multilingual as well as multiliterate practices can deepen understandings of how people recruit multiple languages, literacies, and lifeworlds for meaning making. Implications of this work are offered concerning the features of a transnational curriculum that can both draw from and build up the language and literacy reservoirs of transnational youth.
What Makes or Breaks Provider–Researcher Collaborations in HIV Research? A Mixed Method Analysis of Providers’ Willingness to Partner
Authors: Pinto Rogério M.
Published: September 2012

Research is lacking about what makes or breaks collaboration between researchers and HIV services providers. This study identified factors that influence providers’ levels of willingness to collaborate in HIV prevention scientific research. Survey measures were grounded in in-depth interview data and included providers’ “willingness to collaborate,” and providers’ attitudes toward researchers’ availability, benefits of research, and agency preparedness. This survey was administered to 141 providers in New York City. A hierarchical regression model showed that providers’ perceptions of researchers’ availability ( p < .05), research benefits ( p < .001), and agency preparedness ( p < .05) were associated with providers’ willingness to engage with researchers to purse HIV prevention research. Findings indicate that researchers need to be socially and professionally available, future HIV research should benefit providers and consumers, and policy makers should help agency settings develop human and financial resources in preparation for research.
Nondisclosure of Smoking Status to Health Care Providers Among Current and Former Smokers in the United States
Authors: Curry Laurel Erin , Richardson Amanda , Xiao Haijun , Niaura Raymond S.
Published: September 2012

An unintended consequence of tobacco control’s success in marginalizing smoking is that smokers may conceal their smoking from those who are best positioned to help them quit: health care providers (HCPs). The purpose of this study was to identify the prevalence of, and factors related to, nondisclosure of smoking to HCPs. Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey of adults from a nationally representative Knowledge Networks online panel in March to April 2011. Current and former smokers ( n = 2,803) were asked questions about nondisclosure, tobacco use, cessation behavior, and perceived social unacceptability of smoking. All variables significantly related ( p < .05) to nondisclosure in bivariate logistic regression were included in the multivariate logistic regression model, which also adjusted for gender, age, race, marital status, and education. Approximately 1 in 10 smokers (12.9%) and 5.8% of former smokers has withheld their smoking status from HCPs. Ever smokers who were 18 to 34 years, those who had used a prescription medication or behavioral therapy in their last quit attempt, and those who were uncomfortable discussing smoking with their HCP were more likely to report nondisclosure than those in their respective comparison groups. Respondents who perceived either medium or high smoker-related stigma (odds ratio [OR] = 1.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05, 2.77 and OR = 2.60, 95% CI = 1.51, 4.48, respectively) and those who reported concealing smoking to gain benefits from health insurance were also significantly more likely to have kept smoking a secret from an HCP (OR = 5.66, 95% CI = 1.88, 17.02). Smokers should be encouraged to be forthright about their smoking in order for practitioners to offer treatment and services that increase their chances of quitting.
Exploring Patient Activation in the Clinic
Authors: Ledford Christy J. W. , Ledford Christopher C. , Childress Marc A.
Published: September 2012

Objective. To further conceptualize and operationalize patient activation (PA), using measures from patient, physician, and researcher perspectives. Data Source/Study Setting. Multimethod observation in 2010 within a family medicine clinic. Study Design. Part of an intervention with 130 patients with type 2 diabetes, this observational study further looked at PA in 19 physician–patient dyads. Data Collection. Observations occurred in a teaching hospital, which served as recruiting and study site. Principal Findings. PA correlated with knowledge, self-efficacy, promotion orientation, and exercise intent. Patient-reported PA did not correlate with researcher-observed or physician-reported PA behavior. Researcher-observed PA correlated with physician-observation items. Conclusions. Results provide evidence for measuring different perspectives in studies of PA. When patients report they are activated in self-management, behavior does not indicate they are active in clinical communication, a critical component of collaborative decision making.
Employees’ perceptions of the impact of work on health behaviours
Authors: Payne Nicola , Jones Fiona , Harris Peter R
Published: September 2012

Research examining the impact of work on health behaviours has rarely provided a complete picture of the impact across health behaviours. Twenty-four employees were interviewed about their smoking, drinking, exercise and eating. Themes included the impact of the work environment, including policy, convenience and workplace cultural norms; business events effecting one’s routine and again convenience and workplace cultural norms; being busy at work effecting time and energy for healthy behaviour; and work stress leading to health behaviours being used as coping responses on bad and good days. The impact of work is similar across health behaviours and is primarily detrimental.
A Summative Report of Applications Submitted for the Experience Documentation Opportunity for the Master Certified Health Education Specialist Credential
Authors: Chaney Beth H. , Paravattil Blossom , Lysoby Linda , Rehrig Melissa , Elmore Lori , Gambescia Stephen F.
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this article is to provide a summative report of the applications submitted for the Experience Documentation Opportunity (EDO), implemented by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC). The EDO was a one-time, 6-month opportunity for health education specialists holding the entry-level certification (Certified Health Education Specialist or CHES) for 5 or more continuous years, with active status, to submit documentation to verify practice at the advanced level to become a Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES), the new advanced certification. The EDO process was rigorous and effective in verifying a professional’s level of practice. A total of 862 applications were submitted to NCHEC; 819 were approved, 36 denied, and 7 withdrew. Frequency distributions indicate which advanced-level subcompetencies were used the most and least for applications. Results of the EDO process provide valuable information regarding characteristics of the first cohort of MCHES, as well as a direct assessment of advanced-level practice in the field of health education.
Preparing Promotoras to Deliver Health Programs for Hispanic Communities
Authors: Koskan Alexis M. , Friedman Daniela B. , Brandt Heather M. , Walsemann Katrina M. , Messias DeAnne K. H.
Published: September 2012

Training is an essential component of health programs that incorporate promotoras de salud (the Spanish term for community health workers) in the delivery of health education and behavioral interventions to Hispanics. During training sessions, promotoras are exposed to information and skill-building activities they need to implement the health programs. This analysis was one component of a broader study which explored program planners’ approaches to recruiting and training promotoras to deliver and sustain health promotion programs for Hispanic women. The purpose of this study was to examine promotora-curriculum and training processes used to prepare promotoras to deliver health programs. The authors examined transcripts of 12 in-depth interviews with program planners and conducted a content analysis of seven different training materials used in their respective promotora programs. Interview themes and narratives included program planners’ varying conceptualizations of promotora-training, including their personal definitions of “training the trainer,” the practice of training a cadre of promotoras before selecting those best fit for the program, and the importance of providing goal-directed, in-depth training and supervision for promotoras. The content analysis revealed a variety of strategies used to make the training materials interactive and culturally competent. Study implications describe the importance of planners’ provision of ongoing, goal-directed, and supervised training using both appropriate language and interactive methods to engage and teach promotoras.
An audit of cleaning effectiveness using adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay following outbreaks of infection
Authors: Bellamy Elaine
Published: September 2012

The role of cleaning as an effective tool in the control of hospital acquired infections has generated much interest. Moreover, the role of cleaning personnel has been identified as being a more important factor in ensuring cleanliness than cleaning product. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is present in all types of organic matter and its measurement provides an indication of microbial and non microbial soil. This audit was undertaken at a large NHS university teaching hospital using ATP measurements to assess the effectiveness of the post outbreak cleaning regime. Two wards were assessed following outbreaks of norovirus and 23% of swabs failed to reach a previously established benchmark of 100 RLU. Nurse call bells were one of the most common failures (40%). Observation of practices during the audit revealed poor compliance with the cleaning procedure and confusion over cleaning responsibilities. The cleaning procedure at the Trust has been simplified as a result. Further work is required to establish acceptable cleanliness benchmarks using this technology.
A State of Emergency in Alabama
Authors: Spencer Larry Edward
Published: September 2012

This study examines the Alabama Department of Corrections August 2009 Monthly Statistical Report and Fiscal Year 2008 Annual Report, recent articles to explain the serious public safety issue of prison overcrowding within the state of Alabama, lack of funding and correctional staff, and increasing violence among inmates. It is imperative that the stakeholders take a restorative justice approach to offenders who commit nonviolent crimes or otherwise be prepared to release substantial numbers of violent inmates due to federal court intervention, expanding parole, and other types of early release programs. Violent offenders will pose a greater threat to the community. Correctional workers continue to be exposed daily to the risk of injury or death caused by severe prison overcrowding. The state could experience additional financial hardship to rebuild a destroyed correctional facility in an event of a riot. The excessive use of incarceration for nonviolent offenders is one of the most important issues facing the state of Alabama this decade.