bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cervical Cancer Prevention in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Feasible, Affordable, Essential
Authors: Sahasrabuddhe Vikrant V. , Parham Groesbeck P. , Mwanahamuntu Mulindi H. , Vermund Sten H.
Published: December 2011

The annual worldwide burden of the preventable disease cervical cancer is more than 530,000 new cases and 275,000 deaths, with the majority occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), where cervical cancer screening and early treatment are uncommon. Widely used in high-income countries, Pap smear (cytology based) screening is expensive and challenging for implementation in LMICs, where lower-cost, effective alternatives such as visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and rapid human papillomavirus (HPV)-based screening tests offer promise for scaling up prevention services. Integrating HPV screening with VIA in “screen-and-treat-or-refer” programs offers the dual benefits of HPV screening to maximize detection and using VIA to triage for advanced lesions/cancer, as well as a pelvic exam to address other gynecologic issues. A major issue in LMICs is coinfection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and HPV, which further increases the risk for cervical cancer and marks a population with perhaps the greatest need of cervical cancer prevention. Public–private partnerships to enhance the availability of cervical cancer prevention services within HIV/AIDS care delivery platforms through initiatives such as Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon present an historic opportunity to expand cervical cancer screening in LMICs. Cancer Prev Res; 5(1); 11–17. ©2011 AACR.
Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (Mutaflor): New Insights into an Old Probiotic Bacterium
Authors: Jacobi Christoph A. , Malfertheiner Peter
Published: December 2011

Probiotic bacteria are live microorganisms which contribute health benefits to their host. The numerous mechanisms of the probiotic-acting microorganisms include the induction of expression of certain cytokines and increasing the secretion of IgA and mucin. They activate lymphocytes and macrophages and inhibit the adhesion and invasion of epithelial cells. Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (Mutaflor) is one of the most investigated probiotic bacteria. While the number of reports discussing the underlying mechanisms of Mutaflor has increased rapidly in recent years, novel clinical studies are missing. Here we provide an overview of the mechanisms of action and clinical studies related to Mutaflor. While most of the studies had positive outcomes, there are also a few in which Mutaflor did not perform to its expectations.
Bisoprolol Delays Progression Towards Right Heart Failure in Experimental Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: de Man Frances S. , Handoko M. Louis , van Ballegoij Joris J.M. , Schalij Ingrid , Bogaards Sylvia J.P. , Postmus Pieter E. , van der Velden Jolanda , Westerhof Nico , Paulus Walter J. , Vonk-Noordegraaf Anton
Published: December 2011

Background—

In pulmonary arterial hypertension (PH), sympathetic adrenergic activity is highly elevated. Sympathetic overactivity is a compensatory mechanism at first, but might be detrimental for cardiac function in the long run. We therefore investigated whether chronic low-dose treatment with bisoprolol (a cardioselective β-blocker) has beneficial effects on cardiac function in experimental PH.

Methods and Results—

PH was induced in rats by a single injection of monocrotaline (60 mg/kg). Pressure telemetry in PH rats revealed that 10 mg/kg bisoprolol was the lowest dose that blunted heart rate response during daily activity. Ten days after monocrotaline injection, echocardiography was performed and PH rats were randomized for bisoprolol treatment (oral gavage) or vehicle (n=7/group). At end of study (body mass loss >5%), echocardiography was repeated, with additional pressure-volume measurements and histomolecular analyses. Compared with control, right ventricular (RV) systolic pressure and arterial elastance (measure of vascular resistance) more than tripled in PH. Bisoprolol delayed time to right heart failure (
P
<0.05). RV afterload was unaffected, however, bisoprolol treatment increased RV contractility and filling (both
P
<0.01), and partially restored right ventriculo-arterial coupling and cardiac output (both
P
<0.05). Bisoprolol restored RV β-adrenergic receptor signaling. Histology revealed significantly less RV fibrosis and myocardial inflammation in bisoprolol treated PH rats.

Conclusions—

In experimental PH, treatment with bisoprolol delays progression toward right heart failure, and partially preserves RV systolic and diastolic function. These promising results suggest a therapeutic role for β-blockers in PH that warrants further clinical investigation.
An Unsuspected Property of Natriuretic Peptides
Authors: Chan Noel Yan-Ki , Seyedi Nahid , Takano Kenichi , Levi Roberto
Published: December 2011

Background—

Although natriuretic peptides are considered cardioprotective, clinical heart failure trials with recombinant brain natriuretic peptide (nesiritide) failed to prove it. Unsuspected proadrenergic effects might oppose the anticipated benefits of natriuretic peptides.

Methods and Results—

We investigated whether natriuretic peptides induce catecholamine release in isolated hearts, sympathetic nerve endings (cardiac synaptosomes), and PC12 cells bearing a sympathetic neuron phenotype. Perfusion of isolated guinea pig hearts with brain natriuretic peptide elicited a 3-fold increase in norepinephrine release, which doubled in ischemia/reperfusion conditions. Brain natriuretic peptide and atrial natriuretic peptide also released norepinephrine from cardiac synaptosomes and dopamine from nerve growth factor–differentiated PC12 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. These catecholamine-releasing effects were associated with an increase in intracellular calcium and abolished by blockade of calcium channels and calcium transients, demonstrating a calcium-dependent exocytotic process. Activation of the guanylyl cyclase-cyclic GMP-protein-kinase-G system with nitroprusside or membrane-permeant cyclic GMP analogs mimicked the proexocytotic effect of natriuretic peptides, an action associated with an increase in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) and protein-kinase-A activity. Cyclic AMP enhancement resulted from an inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 3–induced cAMP hydrolysis. Collectively, these findings indicate that, by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type 3, natriuretic peptides sequentially enhance intracellular cAMP levels, protein kinase A activity, intracellular calcium, and catecholamine exocytosis.

Conclusions—

Our results show that natriuretic peptides, at concentrations likely to be reached at cardiac sympathetic nerve endings in advanced congestive heart failure, promote norepinephrine release via a protein kinase G–induced inhibition of phosphodiesterase type 3–mediated cAMP hydrolysis. We propose that this proadrenergic action may counteract the beneficial cardiac and hemodynamic effects of natriuretic peptides and thus explain the ineffectiveness of nesiritide as a cardiac failure medication.
Political Structures, Social Diversity, and Public Policy
Authors: Wallner Jennifer
Published: December 2011

Mandatory education systems form a central pillar of modern social policy sectors. For two of the countries in North America, the expansion of mass public schooling followed similar trajectories. Despite surface-level similarities, there are important differences in the two countries that require explanation. Without national intervention, the Canadian provinces have instituted similar policies fashioning a de facto national education policy framework. State and local education policy, however, demonstrates major variations that Washington has been unable to smooth out. These outcomes confound conventional institutional or societal approaches. This article calls first for a synthesis of macro-level institutional and societal factors. To unravel the sector-specific attributes, the interactive effects of meso-level policy choices must be assessed. By dividing a sector into its individual dimensions, these effects can be appreciated and coupled with the institutional and societal forces outlined above to account for the distinctive features of Canadian and American mandatory education.
The Rise of Leftist– Populist Governance in Latin America
Authors: Remmer Karen L.
Published: December 2011

Over the past decade the contours of political party competition in Latin America have been dramatically altered by an upsurge of support for leftist–populist parties and the related weakening of established parties on the center and right end of the political spectrum. Drawing on both aggregate and individual-level evidence, this article explores the roots of this swing of the political pendulum. Contrary to the conventional wisdom, which attributes the rising “pink tide” to citizen dissatisfaction with market-oriented policies, economic performance, and/or social inequality, the analysis focuses on the role played by improving external economic conditions during the early 2000s, which relaxed the preexisting constraints on policy choice, enhanced the credibility of anti–status quo political actors, and created new opportunities for the pursuit of statist, nationalist, and redistributive political projects and associated challenges to U.S. hegemony. Consistent with this line of theoretical argument, the macro-level evidence indicates that the odds of electing a leftist–populist president in the region rose with improvements in the terms of trade. At the micro level, survey data also show that support for leftist–populist presidents in the region has been positively associated with citizen satisfaction with democracy and the state of the economy as well as with anti-Americanism. The results underline the potential significance of economic fluctuations for understanding electoral dynamics and party system change, particularly under conditions in which government policy choice is constrained by the operation of international markets.
Narrowing the Gap
Authors: Hays Paul Sitton
Published: December 2011

The promise of the charter public school model offers flexibility and autonomy for leaders to enable them to experiment and innovate when running their school. This study examined the leadership of four Boston charter public high schools with predominantly Black and Hispanic, low-income populations that have shown progress narrowing the achievement gap. In-depth semistructured interviews explored the leadership’s success to improve student outcomes compared with the sending district and the state. Findings suggest that leadership is instrumental to the success of each charter public school in this study. Many common characteristics emerge among all four schools, however, the distinctiveness and success of each school is the result of leadership’s ability to orchestrate the characteristics and decisions that culminate to create each educational community. Three dimensions particularly emerged as essential to each school’s success according to leadership: (a) high expectations for student outcome as measured by college completion; (b) safe and orderly learning environment; and (c) an all-school adherence to leadership’s vision in the context of the school’s mission. Each dimension is interpreted and implemented differently depending on the school mission and the leader’s particular vision, experience, and personality resulting in distinct organizational cultures at each school.
Success Criteria in Implant Dentistry
Authors: Papaspyridakos P. , Chen C.-J. , Singh M. , Weber H.-P. , Gallucci G.O.
Published: December 2011

The purpose of this study was to examine the most frequently used criteria to define treatment success in implant dentistry. An electronic MEDLINE/PubMED search was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials and prospective studies reporting on outcomes of implant dentistry. Only studies conducted with roughened surface implants and at least five-year follow-up were included. Data were analyzed for success at the implant level, peri-implant soft tissue, prosthetics, and patient satisfaction. Most frequently reported criteria for success at the implant level were mobility, pain, radiolucency, and peri-implant bone loss (> 1.5 mm), and for success at the peri-implant soft-tissue level, suppuration, and bleeding. The criteria for success at the prosthetic level were the occurrence of technical complications/prosthetic maintenance, adequate function, and esthetics during the five-year period. The criteria at patient satisfaction level were discomfort and paresthesia, satisfaction with appearance, and ability to chew/taste. Success in implant dentistry should ideally evaluate a long-term primary outcome of an implant-prosthetic complex as a whole.
Tracing Toothache Intensity in the Brain
Authors: Brügger M. , Lutz K. , Brönnimann B. , Meier M.L. , Luechinger R. , Barlow A. , Jäncke L. , Ettlin D.A.
Published: December 2011

Identification of brain regions that differentially respond to pain intensity may improve our understanding of trigeminally mediated nociception. This report analyzed cortical responses to painless and painful electrical stimulation of a right human maxillary canine tooth. Functional magnetic resonance images were obtained during the application of five graded stimulus strengths, from below, at, and above the individually determined pain thresholds. Study participants reported each stimulus on a visual rating scale with respect to evoked sensation. Based on hemodynamic responses of all pooled stimuli, a cerebral network was identified that largely corresponds to the known lateral and medial nociceptive system. Further analysis of the five graded stimulus strengths revealed positive linear correlations for the anterior insula bilaterally, the contralateral (left) anterior mid-cingulate, as well as contralateral (left) pregenual cingulate cortices. Cerebral toothache intensity coding on a group level can thus be attributed to specific subregions within the cortical pain network.
Randomized Trial on the Effectiveness of Dexamethasone in TMJ Arthrocentesis
Authors: Huddleston Slater J.J.R. , Vos L.M. , Stroy L.P.P. , Stegenga B.
Published: December 2011

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of dexamethasone administration following arthrocentesis of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) with a placebo (saline). Twenty-eight participants with TMJ arthralgia were randomly assigned to two groups of a parallel double-blind RCT. In both groups, an arthrocentesis procedure was carried out. In one group, the procedure was followed by the administration of a single-dose intra-articular dexamethasone. In the other group, saline was administered as a control. Follow-up visits were scheduled after 1, 3, and 24 weeks. During each visit, TMJ pain (on a 100-mm VAS) and jaw stiffness (mouth opening in mm) were scored. In the statistical analysis, generalized estimating equation (GEE) models showed no differences between the two study groups, although pain and jaw stiffness were both reduced over 24 weeks. In conclusion, intra-articular dexamethasone following arthrocentesis did not improve the procedure’s effect in patients presenting with TMJ arthralgia (ClinicalTrials.gov number CT01275014).
Relationship between Periodontal Status and Levels of Glycated Hemoglobin
Authors: Morita I. , Inagaki K. , Nakamura F. , Noguchi T. , Matsubara T. , Yoshii S. , Nakagaki H. , Mizuno K. , Sheiham A. , Sabbah W.
Published: December 2011

The objective of this study was to assess whether there is a bi-directional relationship between periodontal status and diabetes. Study 1 included 5,856 people without periodontal pockets of ≥ 4 mm at baseline. Relative risk was estimated for the 5-year incidence of periodontal pockets of ≥ 4 mm (CPI scores 3 and 4, with the CPI probe), in individuals with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of ≥ 6.5% at baseline. Study 2 included 6,125 people with HbA1c < 6.5% at baseline. The relative risk was assessed for elevation of HbA1c levels in 5 years, with baseline periodontal status, assessed by CPI. Relative risk of developing a periodontal pocket was 1.17 (p = 0.038) times greater in those with HbA1c of ≥ 6.5% at baseline, adjusted for body mass index (BMI), smoking status, sex, and age. Relative risks for having HbA1c ≥ 6.5% at 5-year follow-up in groups with periodontal pockets of 4 to 5 mm and ≥ 6 mm at baseline were 2.47 (p = 0.122) and 3.45 (p = 0.037), respectively, adjusted for BMI, alcohol consumption, smoking status, sex, and age. The risk of developing periodontal disease was associated with levels of HbA1c, and the risk of elevations of HbA1c was associated with developing periodontal pockets of more than 4 mm.
Population Pharmacokinetic‐Pharmacodynamic Analysis of Istradefylline in Patients With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Knebel William , Rao Niranjan , Uchimura T. , Mori Akihisa , Fisher Jeannine , Gastonguay Marc R. , Chaikin Philip
Published: December 2011

This model‐based analysis quantifies the population pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic efficacy and safety/tolerability relationships of orally administered istradefylline, a selective adenosine A2A receptor antagonist, in healthy participants and patients with Parkinson disease. Data from 6 phase 2/3 clinical trials comprised the population database, with 1760 and 1798 patients contributing to the efficacy and safety/tolerability analyses, respectively. The relationship between istradefylline area under the curve at steady state and percentage OFF time was described by a nonlinear model (Emax) based on time for the disease progression/placebo response component and an Emax model for the effect of istradefylline. The typical maximum decrease in percentage OFF time due to istradefylline exposure would be 5.79% (95% confidence interval = 4.09%–7.49%) with one‐half of the maximum effect reached at an exposure of 1690 ng × hr/mL (95% confidence interval = 199–3180 ng × hr/mL). The pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic relationships for dyskinesia and dizziness were described by an Emax model, and for nausea, a power model was used. The probabilities of dyskinesia and dizziness are expected to plateau at a dose of 40 mg/d, and the probability of nausea is expected to continually rise as the dose is increased. Collectively, these results support a starting istradefylline dose of 20 to 40 mg/d.
No Pharmacokinetic Interaction Between Lacosamide and Valproic Acid in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Cawello Willi , Bonn Rainer
Published: December 2011

Two open‐label, randomized, multiple‐dose clinical studies evaluated the potential for pharmacokinetic interaction between the antiepileptic drugs lacosamide and valproic acid. The influence of lacosamide on valproic acid pharmacokinetics (trial A) and valproic acid on lacosamide pharmacokinetics (trial B) was investigated in 32 healthy male volunteers, 16 in each trial. Volunteers in trial A received valproic acid (300 mg bid) with randomization to either early or late addition of lacosamide (200 mg bid). Those in trial B received lacosamide (200 mg bid) with randomization to either early or late addition of valproic acid (300 mg bid). Area under the concentration‐time curve during a 12‐hour dosing interval at steady state (AUCTSS) and maximum steady‐state plasma drug concentration (Cmax, ss) were measured for each drug alone and together and tested for equivalence. The point estimates (90% confidence intervals) for AUCt, ss and Cmax, ss were 104% (99%–109%) and 101% (97%–107%), respectively, for valproic acid and 100% (98%–103%) and 101% (96%–107%), respectively, for lacosamide, which were within the generally accepted equivalence range of 80% to 125%. No changes in the rate or extent of absorption, terminal half‐life, or time to maximum concentration were observed. These results suggest that lacosamide and valproic acid have no relevant pharmacokinetic drug‐drug interaction.
Aesthetic and athletic employees: The negative outcome of employers assuming responsibility for sickness benefits
Authors: Huzell Henrietta , Larsson Patrik
Published: December 2011

Previous research into employers’ aesthetic demands regarding labour has found that hiring good-looking workers has become a conscious recruitment strategy among service companies intending to increase sales. In this article, aesthetic demands are divided into different categories, one of which is related to health issues. This category is labelled athletic demands, which entail employers’ search for healthy-looking workers. It is argued that the use of athletic labour is used as a proxy to avoid future costs for workers’ sickness absence and rehabilitation. This suggests that aesthetic labour is far more important and extensive than hitherto acknowledged.
Contradiction Sells
Authors: Crymble Sarah B.
Published: December 2011

This article explores the relationship between advertisings’ directive to consume and the binary-based “legitimizing myths” surrounding feminine identity found in magazine advertisements by first presenting a theory of gender identity dissonance, and then examining the complexity of marketing gender identity dissonance to women. Key to establishing and developing the relationship between consumption, identity, and pleasure is the dissemination of gender-based dichotomies that work to both create and reinforce stereotypical notions of appropriate female gender identities as well as link self-actualization with the embodiment of contradictory identity positions. To illustrate this point, this article provides an in-depth analysis of the De Beer’s right-hand ring print advertising campaign featured in women’s magazines from 1998 to 2006. Advertisements and information gathered from industry sources indicate that there is a conscious focus within the industry, especially within recent years, towards the representation and utilization of feminine complexity and female gender identity dissonance in product marketing.
Deconstructing Postracialism
Authors: Rossing Jonathan P.
Published: December 2011

Postracialism pervades public discourse and positions race and racism as ancient history with little bearing on contemporary culture. This orientation impedes discourse on race in education, politics, media, and the workplace. As a consequence, postracialism thwarts the articulation of a successful politics of race and prevents movement toward racial justice. This essay identifies racial humor as an important site that might disrupt the impasse created by postracialism. Discussions of race have become labored in public discourse but humor has the capacity to counter the consequences of postracial ideologies. This essay considers the work of Stephen Colbert and his implicit critique of postracialism and Whiteness from the position of a White, male who ostensibly advocates postracialism. Although humor is always subject to varied interpretation, his political satire can be used to affirm progressive race-consciousness, reflect on the influence of racial constructions throughout history, expose White privilege, and refute reactionary White victim narratives.
Spontaneous Glomerular and Tubulointerstitial Lesions in Common Marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Isobe K. , Adachi K. , Hayashi S. , Ito T. , Miyoshi A. , Kato A. , Suzuki M.
Published: December 2011

Spontaneous progressive nephropathy dominated by glomerular lesions in common marmosets has been reported. However, the histopathologic characteristics, including the relationship between glomerular and tubulointerstitial lesions, have not been described in detail. In the present study, the authors examined the histopathologic characteristics of the background renal lesions in common marmosets (3 males and 9 females, 3 to 8 years old). The severity of glomerular lesions was graded into 3 classes: grade I, no alteration; grade II, hilar/focal increase of mesangial matrix; grade III, global/diffuse increase of mesangial matrix. Tubulointerstitial lesions (tubular regeneration and hyperplasia and interstitial inflammation and fibrosis) were scored according to the area of each lesion. The renal lesions were characterized by enlargement of glomeruli, expanded mesangial area with increase of periodic acid–Schiff reaction-positive matrix, tubular regeneration and hyperplasia, and interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. Glomerular lesions progressed with increasing mesangial matrix and aging. Additionally, the tubulointerstitial lesions became exacerbated with progressing glomerular lesions. Tubular hyperplasia was divided into 4 types according to the structure of the cell layer (simple or stratified-like), the area of increased lining cells (partial or entire), cytoplasmic staining (eosinophilic or basophilic), brush border and thickness of basement membrane, and the activity of cell proliferation. In conclusion, the background renal lesions in common marmosets were characterized by glomerular lesions with increase of mesangial matrix, which progressed with aging, and secondary tubulointerstitial lesions, including tubular hyperplasia. Those lesions were thus diagnosed as progressive glomerulonephropathy in common marmosets.
Immunohistochemical Characteristics of Normal Canine Eyes
Authors: Labelle P. , Reilly C. M. , Naydan D. K. , Labelle A. L.
Published: December 2011

Immunohistochemistry is widely utilized in diagnostic laboratories to study neoplastic and nonneoplastic diseases. Knowledge of the immunohistochemical characteristics of normal tissue is essential for interpretation of immunoreactivity in pathologic conditions. In this study, immunohistochemistry was performed with a broad panel of diagnostically relevant antibodies on 4 normal canine globes—namely, vimentin, pan-cytokeratin (AE1/AE3), cytokeratin 7, cytokeratin 8/18, cytokeratin 20, α–smooth muscle actin, muscle specific actin, desmin, Melan-A, microphthalmia transcription factor, S-100, glial fibrillary acidic protein, triple neurofilaments, neuron-specific enolase, chromogranin A, synaptophysin, laminin and CD31. Results include cytokeratin immunoreactivity limited to the conjunctival epithelium, corneal epithelium, and retinal pigment epithelium; distinct patterns of immunopositivity of muscle markers; and widespread immunoreactivity for vimentin and most neural/neuroendocrine markers. These findings in normal eyes provide the basis for interpretation of ocular immunohistochemistry in dogs. Published immunophenotypes of primary ocular neoplasms are also reviewed.
Citizens’ Attitudes Toward Wrongful Convictions
Authors: Zalman Marvin , Larson Matthew J. , Smith Brad
Published: December 2011

Perhaps no problem challenges the legitimacy of the criminal justice system more than the conviction of factually innocent individuals. Numerous highly publicized exonerations that occurred since 1989 have raised the visibility of wrongful conviction, eliciting the attention of both scholars and policy makers. Much of the research in this area focuses on the causes and incidence of the phenomenon. Despite the growing body of research, however, there has been no examination of how citizens view this problem. Using data from a statewide survey of Michigan residents, the present study aims to fill that gap in the literature by reporting on citizens’ attitudes regarding the issue of wrongful conviction. Overall, the results of this exploratory study suggest that respondents not only recognize the incidence of wrongful conviction but also believe that such errors occur with some regularity. Further results show that respondents believe wrongful convictions occur frequently enough to justify major criminal justice system reform. Attitudes varied significantly across demographic groups as well. Additional findings and policy implications are discussed.
Effect of notch and crack initiating from notch on the behavior of adhesively bonded composite laminated plate
Authors: Sahnoun Mohamed , Ouinas Djamel , Benderdouche Noureddine , Belhouari Mohamed , Bouiadjra Bel Abbes Bachir
Published: December 2011

Reinforcing structures using bonded composites is an effective and economic method to increase the service life of damaged structures. In this study, we use the finite element method to analyze the behavior of a laminated structure by computing the stress concentration factor and the stress intensity factor at the crack tip in mode I. The effects of the mechanical properties of the laminate layers and the adhesive layer on the behavior of the assembly are highlighted. The results show that the factors of concentration and stress intensity are affected by the orientation of fibers and the presence of geometrical defects. The magnitude of the latter affects and amplifies the stress concentrations at the crack tip.
Effect of clay loading on flammability of poly(methyl methacrylate)/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Pandey Priyanka , Dayanidhi Anbu , Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K
Published: December 2011

The present study is related to the investigation of flammability properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) after incorporation of clay. PMMA/layered silicate (nanoclay) nanocomposites with 5% loading of nanofiller were prepared using melt intercalation technique. Commercially modified nanoclays such as Cloisite 30B, Cloisite 93A and in-house modified nanoclay (Quaternary ammonium salt modified Na-MMT i.e. OTAB-Na-MMT have been used as organoclays for the preparation of nanocomposites. Thermal characterization of the above prepared nanocomposites was carried out by thermal conductivity, horizontal burning test (UL94HB) and cone calorimeter experiments. The morphological behavior of nanocomposites was characterized by wide angle x-ray diffraction technique. The morphology of charred material obtained after burning was investigated using scanning electron microscopic analysis.
Radiation stability of nanosilica-based urea–formaldehyde composite materials
Authors: Samaržija-Jovanović Suzana , Jovanović Vojislav , Marković Gordana , Konstantinović Sandra , Marinović-Cincović Milena
Published: December 2011

Three types of nanosilica-based urea–formaldehyde (UF) hybrid composite materials with a formaldehyde-to-urea (F/U) ratio of 0.8 were synthesized (UF with SiO2—Resin 1, UF + SiO2 + thiourea [TU]—Resin 2 and UF + SiO2 + thiosemicarbazide [TSC]—Resin 3). The thermal behavior of obtained materials was studied by nonisothermal thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential thermal gravimetry (DTG), differential thermal analysis (DTA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and supported by data from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Nanosilica-based UF hybrid composites have been irradiated (50 kGy) and after that their radiation stability was evaluated on the basis of thermal behavior. The percentage of free formaldehyde in all prepared samples was determined. DTG peaks of unmodified nanosilica-based UF resin (UF with SiO2) are shifted to a high temperature. The minimum percentage values of free formaldehyde (3%) for samples based on UF with SiO2 and UF + SiO2 + TSC after irradiation dose of 50 kGy are detected.
Cycles of Contention: The Rise and Fall of the Tea Party
Authors: Langman Lauren
Published: December 2011

Right wing populism has typically consisted of anti-statist/elitist mobilizations by the ‘common people’ opposed to government policies and/or various out-groups. Such cycles of contention, typically prompted by various social changes and/or crises, have long been an essential feature of American society. The Tea Party (Parties) appeared in 2009 as a response to economic stagnation and crisis, secular challenges to traditional religious identities and the election of an African American president. The Tea Partiers were generally highly conservative, highly religious, rural/suburban, lower middle class Republicans. Such movements might be best understood as reactionary ‘resistance movements’ that attempt to defend and retain traditional identities and statuses based on race, patriarchy and hetero-normativity that have been under assault by late modern ‘network’ society. Such movements, prompted by anger, rage and ressentiment may garner attention and even wider support, but if/when they gain power, they foster ‘buyer’s remorse’ and eventually wane.
Welfare Reform and Older Immigrant Adults’ Medicaid and Health Insurance Coverage
Authors: Nam Yunju
Published: December 2011

Objectives: To examine how federal noncitizen Medicaid eligibility restriction and generous state policy affect Medicaid and health insurance coverage among older adults with different citizenship status. Method: This study uses an older adult sample (65 years or older) from the Current Population Survey (CPS) and state data and employed a triple difference-in-differences approach to incorporate variations in citizenship status, time, and state eligibility. Results: Findings show that Medicaid coverage significantly declined among older noncitizens but increased among older naturalized citizens after Welfare Reform. Findings also show that the differences in older noncitizens’ health insurance coverage changes were significant between generous and nongenerous states. Discussion: Medicaid eligibility affects older immigrant adults’ Medicaid and health insurance coverage. Findings support the “protective citizenship” hypothesis but not the “chilling effect” and “labor market condition” hypotheses. Opposite patterns of change in Medicaid coverage between naturalized citizens and noncitizens raise doubt about the effectiveness of eligibility restrictions in reducing government spending.
Progressive Taxation and the Subjective Well-Being of Nations
Authors: Oishi Shigehiro , Schimmack Ulrich , Diener Ed
Published: December 2011

Using data from the Gallup World Poll, we examined whether progressive taxation is associated with increased levels of subjective well-being. Consistent with Rawls’s theory of justice, our results showed that progressive taxation was positively associated with the subjective well-being of nations. However, the overall tax rate and government spending were not associated with the subjective well-being of nations. Furthermore, controlling for the wealth of nations and income inequality, we found that respondents living in a nation with more-progressive taxation evaluated their lives as closer to the best possible life and reported having more positive and less negative daily experiences than did respondents living in a nation with less-progressive taxation. Finally, we found that the association between more-progressive taxation and higher levels of subjective well-being was mediated by citizens’ satisfaction with public goods, such as education and public transportation.
Interplay Between Action and Movement Intentions During Social Interaction
Authors: Ondobaka Sasha , de Lange Floris P. , Newman-Norlund Roger D. , Wiemers Michael , Bekkering Harold
Published: December 2011

Observing the movements of another person influences the observer’s intention to execute similar movements. However, little is known about how action intentions formed prior to movement planning influence this effect. In the experiment reported here, we manipulated the congruency of movement intentions and action intentions in a pair of jointly acting individuals (i.e., a participant paired with a confederate coactor) and investigated how congruency influenced performance. Overall, participants initiated actions faster when they had the same action intention as the coactor (i.e., when participants and the coactor were pursuing the same conceptual goal). Participants’ responses were also faster when their and the coactor’s movement intentions were directed to the same spatial location, but only when participants had the same action intention as the coactor. These findings suggest that observers use the same representation to implement their own action intentions that they use to infer other people’s action intentions and also that a dynamic, multitiered intentional mechanism is involved in the processing of other people’s actions.
Naturally occurring Influenza A virus subtype H1N2 infection in a Midwest United States mink (Mustela vison) ranch
Authors: Yoon Kyoung-Jin , Schwartz Kent , Sun Dong , Zhang Jianqiang , Hildebrandt Hugh
Published: December 2011

Influenza A virus (FLUAV) causes acute respiratory disease in humans and a variety of animal species. The virus tends to remain within the species of origin; nonetheless, naturally occurring cross-species transmission of FLUAV has been periodically documented. Multiple cross-species transmissions of FLUAV have been reported from companion animals and captive wild animals, neither of which is historically considered as natural hosts of FLUAV. In the fall of 2010, mink ( Mustela vison) inhabiting a 15,000-head mink farm in the Midwest United States experienced persistent severe respiratory distress and nose and/or mouth bleeding. Mink losses averaged approximately 10 animals per day. Six dead mink at 6 months of age were submitted to the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for diagnostic investigation. Gross and microscopic examinations revealed that all 6 mink had hemorrhagic bronchointerstitial pneumonia. Hemolytic Escherichia coli was isolated from lungs, probably accounting for hemorrhagic pneumonia. All animals tested negative for Canine distemper virus and Aleutian mink disease virus. Interestingly, FLUAV of H1N2 subtype, which contained the matrix gene of swine lineage, was detected in the lungs. Serological follow-up on mink that remained in the ranch until pelting also confirmed that the ranch had been exposed to FLUAV of H1 subtype (δ clade). The case study suggests that FLUAV should be included in the differential diagnosis when mink experience epidemics of respiratory disease. Since the source of FLUAV appeared to be uncooked turkey meat, feeding animals fully cooked ration should be considered as a preventive measure.
Development of a real-time tunable stiffness and damping vibration isolator based on magnetorheological elastomer
Authors: Liao G. J. , Gong X-L , Xuan S. H. , Kang C. J. , Zong L. H.
Published: December 2011

A tunable stiffness and damping vibration isolator based on magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) is developed. In this isolator, four MRE elements are used as the tunable springs, whose stiffness can be controlled by varying the magnetic field. A voice coil motor, which is controlled by the relative velocity feedback of the payload, is used as the tunable damper of the isolator. Under the combined ON–OFF control, the proposed vibration isolator shows satisfying isolation effect. The experimental results indicate that the responses of the payload are suppressed significantly in comparison to the passive system. The transmissibility of the payload around the resonant frequency is decreased by 61.5%. The root mean square (RMS) value and the maximum value of the displacement responses of the payload are decreased by 36.0% and 50.0%, respectively. In addition, the RMS values and maximum values of the velocity responses are decreased by 45.4% and 52.5%, respectively.
Effective Reading and Writing Instruction
Authors: Regan Kelley , Berkeley Sheri
Published: December 2011

When providing effective reading and writing instruction, teachers need to provide explicit modeling. Modeling is particularly important when teaching students to use cognitive learning strategies. Examples of how teachers can provide specific, explicit, and flexible instructional modeling is presented in the context of two evidence-based practices in the areas of reading and writing.
A Framework for Implementing Individualized Self-Regulated Learning Strategies in the Classroom
Authors: Ness Bryan M. , Middleton Michael J.
Published: December 2011

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is a conceptual model that can be used to design and implement individualized learning strategies for students with learning disabilities. Students who self-regulate their learning engage in planning, performance, and self-evaluation during academic tasks. This article highlights one approach for teaching SRL skills to students with learning disabilities (LD) in inclusive middle school contexts. A strategy is offered to illustrate the importance of integrating student needs, SRL processes, and contextual variables into strategy implementation. A case study is provided to demonstrate how the strategy was implemented by a special education teacher for a sixth-grade student with LD. The data collected by the special education teacher suggested the strategy contributed to improved classroom preparation, on-task behavior, class grade, and teacher perception of student engagement during math class.
Explicitly Teaching Social Skills Schoolwide
Authors: Simonsen Brandi , Myers Diane , Everett Susannah , Sugai George , Spencer Rebecca , LaBreck Chris
Published: December 2011

Socially skilled students are more successful in school. Just like academic skills, social skills need to be explicitly taught. Students, including students who display at-risk behavior, benefit when social skills instruction is delivered schoolwide as part of a comprehensive intervention approach. This article presents a seven-step action planning sequence to facilitate schoolwide social skills instruction—highlighting how an expectations-within-settings matrix facilitates effective, efficient, and contextually relevant schoolwide social skills instruction. Useful tools, including an example matrix, lesson plan template, and implementation fidelity self-assessment, are included.
Military Deployment and the Spouse Left Behind
Authors: Asbury E. Trey , Martin Danica
Published: December 2011

Recently, the impact of deployment, especially war-zone experiences on the well-being of military personnel and veterans, has received much attention. Findings show that combat exposure may be linked to an array of negative health consequences, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for the deployed individual and stress that is placed on the family. Married U.S. college students from Camp Lejeune and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, were asked to complete a survey measuring depression, anxiety, social support, and marital satisfaction. Comparisons of means between participants with spouses in the military and participants with a civilian spouse showed no significant differences in depression and anxiety. Participants with a military spouse did report significantly higher social support, and the same group was more likely to report marital discord. Implications for these findings, especially the prevalence of high marital discord associated with lengthy military deployment, are discussed.
An Exploratory Factor Analysis of the URICA Among Couple Therapy Participants
Authors: Tambling Rachel B. , Johnson Lee N.
Published: December 2011

Assessing and measuring client motivation to change has been of great interest to therapists and researchers in a variety of fields. This article presents the results of an exploratory factor analysis of the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment (URICA), a measure of motivation to change, in a sample of individuals in couple therapy. Four hundred and sixty-nine individuals engaged in couple therapy completed the URICA. Results suggested the presence of five factors, two of which correspond with the originators' conceptualization of the factor structure. These results provide further support for the theoretically derived factors of precontemplation and action and offer interesting new possibilities for a comprehensive understanding of client motivation to change.
The problem of trust in planning
Authors: Talvitie Antti
Published: December 2011

The paper reviews recent literature on trust in urban and regional planning from engineering planning, sociological, economic and psychoanalytic perspectives using the author’s training and experiences as a backdrop. It discusses the various approaches of defining trust in the planning context and discusses four categories of trust proposed by Swain and Tait (2007). According to the author, the importance of leaders and leadership on trust is ignored in most current theories. Based on Freud’s model on groups the author proposes that leaders and significant “external objects” are central to trust and critical to successful planning. Following the group model, supported by psychoanalytic literature, the paper proposes a new way of looking at trust, how it develops and how it can be adapted and incorporated in the planning processes.
Botulinum Toxin Effect on Voluntary and Stretch Reflex–Related Torque Produced by the Quadriceps
Authors: Bernuz Benjamin , Genet François , Terrat Philippe , Pradon Didier , Barbot Frederic , Bussel Bernard , Bensmail Djamel
Published: December 2011

Background. An understanding of the mechanical effects of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT A) on spastic and voluntary muscle contraction may help predict functional responders. Objective. To compare the effect of BoNT A on the voluntary and stretch reflex–related torques produced by activation of the rectus femoris (RF). Methods. This was a prospective open study where 15 incomplete spinal cord injury patients, impaired by a stiff-knee gait, with RF hyperactivity in mid-swing quantified by formal gait analysis (GA), were assessed before and after RF BoNT A injection (Botox, 200 UI). Main outcome measures included isokinetic peak torque (and angle at peak torque) at 0° (supine) and 90° (seated) during passive stretch (10 deg/s, 90 deg/s, and 150 deg/s), and voluntary contraction (60 deg/s) of the quadriceps. Secondary measures included impairment by Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS), peak knee flexion and spatial-temporal data by GA, activity (6-minute walking test, timed stair climbing), and discomfort (Verbal Rating Scale). Results. Voluntary torque decreased (−16%; P = .0004) but with only a trend toward a decrease in stretch reflex–related torque. The angle at spastic torque increased at 90 deg/s (+5°; P = .03), whereas MTS, peak knee flexion (+4°; P = .01), spatial-temporal data, timed stair climbing test (25%; P = .02), and discomfort were significantly improved. Conclusion. BoNT A appeared to delay the stretch-reflex angle at peak torque, whereas the voluntary torque decreased. After strict patient selection, BoNT A injection into the RF muscle led to improvements in impairment, activity, and discomfort.
Improved Working Memory Following Novel Combinations of Physical and Cognitive Activity
Authors: Langdon Kristopher D. , Corbett Dale
Published: December 2011

Background. In humans, retrospective studies suggest that habitual physical activity (PA) or cognitive activity (CA) can help maintain or improve cognitive function. Similar findings have been reported using physical exercise in animal studies; however, the exercise paradigms differ markedly in duration and frequency, making extrapolation difficult. Here, the authors present a novel PA and CA paradigm that combines voluntary wheel running with Hebb-Williams and radial arm maze (RAM) training. Methods. A total of 57 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 treatment groups: the PA, CA, and combined PA and CA groups and sedentary controls. PA (voluntary wheel running) and CA (Hebb-Williams mazes) consisted of a moderate 2 h/d, 5 d/wk treatment paradigm. Results. Animals exposed to a combination of PA and CA made significantly fewer working memory errors and exhibited superior choice accuracy when compared with animals exposed to either PA or CA alone in the 8-arm baited configuration of the RAM. Additional analyses revealed that the cognitive improvements were independent of exercise intensity/duration. Assessment of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels revealed a significant increase in hippocampal BDNF only in the PA-alone group. Conclusion. A novel combination of PA and CA improves learning and memory abilities independent of activity intensity, BDNF, or phosphorylated cyclic AMP response element binding protein levels. This is the first report of significant changes in cognitive ability using a paradigm involving moderate levels of PA plus cognitive stimulation. An adaptation of this paradigm may be particularly beneficial in slowing the development of mild cognitive impairment and subsequent dementia in elderly people.