bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a U.S. Adult Social Self-Efficacy Inventory in Chinese Populations 1Ψ7
Authors: Fan Jinyan , Meng Hui , Gao Xiangping , Lopez Felix J. , Liu Cong
Published: December 2009

The authors report a series of efforts to validate a U.S. adult social self-efficacy inventory, the Perceived Social Self-Efficacy scale (PSSE), in Chinese populations. They argue that the construct underlying the PSSE scale constitutes an important component of Chinese adult social self-efficacy, which was confirmed in focus group discussions. The original English PSSE items were back translated into Chinese and were adapted to suit Chinese language and culture. Two validation studies were then conducted with Chinese undergraduate students. Results consistently showed that the Chinese PSSE scale had a single-factor structure, high reliabilities, excellent construct validity, and acceptable criterion validity. Implications for counseling research and practice in Chinese contexts are discussed.
Best Practices in Counseling the Gifted in Schools: What’s Really Happening?
Authors: Wood Susannah
Published: December 2009

School counselors play a vital role in meeting the needs of gifted students in their buildings. However, because there is a lack of structured, standardized, and empirically tested best practices for counseling gifted students, school counselors may not know how best to serve this unique population. The purpose of this study was to investigate gifted and talented adolescents’ experiences with the counseling techniques, strategies, and approaches most frequently cited in the gifted education literature in order to determine if any of these best practices were actually occurring. Few of these best practices were experienced by gifted and talented adolescents surveyed. School counselor preparation programs should consider providing training curriculum that addresses issues unique to the learning and development of gifted students.

Putting the research to use

School counselors play an integral role in supporting the talent development of gifted students. While there is an abundance of suggested best practices in counseling the gifted in the literature, there are few studies which ascertain if the suggested best practices are being provided by school counselors or the relationship between the gifted student and their counselor. This study was designed to enlighten both the fields of school counseling and gifted education as to what students are experiencing with their school counselors, what if any best practices are being delivered, and what programmatic options gifted students would like to see in their high schools. Findings indicate that few of the best practices are being experienced by high school students. Hence, while future research is needed to further explore this disconnect, the critical issue is the need for school counselors to have more exposure to these best practices in their preparation programs and beyond.
Examining the Relationship Between the Overexcitabilities and Self-Concepts of Gifted Adolescents via Multivariate Cluster Analysis
Authors: Rinn Anne N. , Mendaglio Sal , Moritz Rudasill Kathleen , McQueen Kand S.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between gifted adolescents’ forms of overexcitabilities and self-concepts. Clusters of adolescents were formed on the basis of their overexcitabilities, and these clusters of adolescents were then compared with regard to their self-concept scores. Gender differences were also examined. The sample consisted of 379 gifted adolescents, ranging in age from 11 to 16 years of age. Forms of overexcitabilities were measured using the Overexcitabilities Questionnaire—II, and various facets of self-concept were measured using the Self-Description Questionnaire—II. Using cluster analysis, multivariate analysis of variance, and chi-square analysis, results suggested a distinct four-cluster solution, as well as differences between clusters in self-concept and gender.

Putting the Research to Use

Within this research, four distinct clusters of adolescents were found, namely a Low Imaginational group, a High Intellectual group, a Low Imaginational/High Psychomotor group, and a Low Psychomotor group. Differences in self-concept were found to center on the Low Psychomotor group, such that this group scored significantly lower than the three other groups with regard to various facets of self-concept. Females significantly outnumbered males in the Low Psychomotor group. Thus, gifted adolescent females with a low psychomotor overexcitability score may be more prone to a lowered self-concept and may need intervention, counseling, or special activities/accommodations to buffer the potential self-concept deficits they may face.
Developing and Fostering Passion in Academic and Nonacademic Domains
Authors: Fredricks Jennifer A. , Alfeld Corinne , Eccles Jacquelynne
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this study was to explore how passion was manifested among gifted and talent youth selected from a larger longitudinal study of child and adolescent development. The gifted sample included 25 high school and college students who were selected because they were in a gifted program in elementary school. The talent sample included 41 high school students who were selected because they were highly involved in athletics and the arts in middle childhood. The authors found that passion was more characteristic of participation in nonacademic activities (i.e., sports and the arts). Talented youth were more likely to talk about wanting to do their activity all the time, experiencing flow, getting emotional release from participation, and internalizing the activity into their identity. The authors also found that school settings, and especially regular classrooms as compared with gifted and advanced classes, appeared to undermine rather that support passion. The authors discuss implications of their findings for creating school environments that can foster passion.

Putting the Research to Use

We found very little evidence of passion in our interviews with gifted high school and college youth. Instead, most of these youth talked about being bored and that little motivated them besides demonstrating their ability. Unfortunately, many of the youth talked negatively about aspects of both the academic and social environment. We offer suggestions for teachers and schools on how to increase passion in the classroom. Students are more likely to experience passion in environments where they feel supported by peers who are of similar ability and motivation levels, where teachers model enthusiasm and press for understanding, where there is adequate challenge, and where are opportunities to work on varied, meaningful, and cognitively complex tasks.
Mental Disorders Among Gifted and Nongifted Youth: A Selected Review of the Epidemiologic Literature
Authors: Martin Laurie T. , Burns Rachel M. , Schonlau Matthias
Published: December 2009

Given the ongoing debate over whether giftedness is associated with mental health disorders, there is a great need to highlight and compare results from the most methodologically rigorous studies. Surprisingly, the vast majority of literature reviews and background sections of research articles include studies that do not directly compare gifted and nongifted youth. Furthermore, almost no attention has been paid to how differences in the definitions of giftedness or mental health outcomes of interest affect the interpretation and comparison of studies. The authors apply an epidemiologic perspective for thinking about these issues, highlight many of the challenges of studying this population, and present results from meta-analyses that include the most methodologically rigorous studies comparing rates of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, suicide ideation, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) between gifted and nongifted youth. They conclude with recommendations to strengthen research in this area.

Putting the research to use

Through this review we sought to provide concrete recommendations to strengthen future research on the mental health of gifted children. Most notably, future studies should assess large, population-based cohorts that include both gifted and nongifted individuals. Researchers should also move toward describing their study population according to their specific aptitudes, talents, skills or abilities, rather than using the general term ‘gifted’. Thinking more specifically about these relationships will not only help us to understand the association between giftedness and mental health, but will also increase the potential to effectively shape programs and policies for gifted youth, focusing resources on the most vulnerable.
Developing the Impossible Figures Task to Assess Visual-Spatial Talents Among Chinese Students: A Rasch Measurement Model Analysis
Authors: Chan David W.
Published: December 2009

Data of item responses to the Impossible Figures Task (IFT) from 492 Chinese primary, secondary, and university students were analyzed using the dichotomous Rasch measurement model. Item difficulty estimates and person ability estimates located on the same logit scale revealed that the pooled sample of Chinese students, who were relatively highly able, might find it relatively easy to complete the IFT, and there might be relatively fewer number of items at the higher end than at the lower end of the item difficulty scale. The substantial correlation between person ability estimates and external criterion measures (mental rotation test scores and judged drawing scores) provided support for the validity of the IFT in identifying visual-spatial talents among students. Implications of the findings for the use and the future development or refinement of the IFT are discussed.

Putting the Research to Use

Assessing and identifying visual-spatial talents in students is important as a first step to support and enhance their optimal talent development. This study provides supporting evidence that the rapid recognition of impossible figures using the Impossible Figures Task (IFT) could be indicative of students’ global visual-spatial ability. Thus, the IFT could be used as a part of a more comprehensive assessment protocol for students. Specifically, based on the present Rasch scaling, teachers and education practitioners could administer the IFT with items ordered in ascending item difficulties such that students could be placed along a scale of increasing person abilities. Depending on the purpose of the assessment, a cutoff score could also be flexibly determined for talent identification to suit specific educational settings and cultural contexts. Alternatively, targeting for particular regions of person abilities or talent potentials, selected item sets could also be used, as in the use of some forms of adaptive testing.
Computational Investigation of the Effective Thermal Conductivity of Interpenetrating Network Composites
Authors: Hongtao Zhang  , Yu Zeng  , Hongyan Zhang  , Fangfang Guo
Published: December 2009

In this article, the effective thermal conductivity of composites with a network structure as reinforcement was calculated using finite element method (FEM), and a tetrakaidecahedron configuration was employed to represent the network structure. A spectrum of effective thermal conductivity of these composites was simulated. An analytical relationship among the effective thermal conductivity Keff, intrinsic thermal conductivities of the matrix and network reinforcement phase, and the volume fraction of the network was developed by fitting the numerical results. The simulation results have been validated by comparing with previous published experimental ones, and excellent agreement has been achieved.
A New Ultimate Strength Model of Notched Composite Laminates — Including the Effects of Matrix Failure
Authors: Liu C.J. , Nijhof A.H.J. , Ernst L.J. , Marissen R.
Published: December 2009

A new ultimate strength model is developed to predict the final failure, with the influence of matrix failure, of notched cross-ply laminates. The present model is based on the estimation of the local stresses and the redistribution of the local stresses in the critical damage zones around the notches. The new ultimate strength model can be stated as: when the local stresses in the critical-load-carrying elements reach their failure strength, the critical-load-carrying element will fail and the ultimate failure will occur. In order to estimate the local stress concentration in the critical damage zones, a method is developed and applied to decompose the local stress concentration into several parts, e.g., the geometrical contribution, the stacking-ratio contribution, and the damage contribution. Combined with a single numerical simulation for a notched laminate, the damage-dependent stress concentration of the laminate can be established for different notches and it is then utilized to predict the ultimate strength of notched laminates with different notches. The applications of this method show that the model prediction agrees with the experimental observations satisfactorily.
Prediction of Bearing Strength of Two Serial Pinned/Bolted Composite Joints using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Sen Faruk , Aydin Komur M. , Sayman Onur
Published: December 2009

The aim of this study is to investigate the improvement of an artificial neural network (ANN) method for the prediction of bearing strength of two serial pinned/bolted E-glass reinforced epoxy composite joints. The experimental data from the previous study with different geometrical parameters without torque and various applied torque were used for developing the ANN model. Comparisons of ANN results with desired values showed that there is a good agreement between input and output variables of the experimental data. Therefore, ANN was illustrated to be a valid powerful tool for the prediction of bearing strength of two serial pinned/bolted composite joints.
Intensive Smoking-cessation Intervention in the Dental Setting
Authors: Hanioka T. , Ojima M. , Tanaka H. , Naito M. , Hamajima N. , Matsuse R.
Published: December 2009

Smoking exerts detrimental effects on dental treatment and oral health. Our goal was to evaluate effectiveness in terms of the abstinence rate in smoking-cessation intervention delivered by dental professionals. Individuals who were willing to quit smoking were randomly assigned to either an intervention or a non-intervention group. Intensive intervention was provided, consisting of 5 counseling sessions, including an additional nicotine replacement regimen. Reported abstinence was verified by the salivary cotinine level. Thirty-three persons in the intervention and 23 in the non-intervention group started the trial. On an intent-to-treat basis, 3-, 6- and 12-month continuous abstinence rates in the intervention group were 51.5%, 39.4%, and 36.4%, respectively, while the rates in the non-intervention group were consistent at 13.0%. Adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) by logistic stepwise regression analyses were 7.1 (1.8, 28.5), 8.9 (1.7, 47.2), and 6.4 (1.3, 30.7), respectively. Intensive smoking-cessation intervention in the dental setting was therefore effective.
Impact of Guideline Implementation on Patient Care: a Cluster RCT
Authors: Mettes T.G. , van der Sanden W.J.M. , Bronkhorst E. , Grol R.P.T.M. , Wensing M. , Plasschaert A.J.M.
Published: December 2009

In Western European countries, dentists use standardized procedures, rather than individualized risk assessment, for routine oral examinations. The predictive hypothesis was that guideline implementation strategies based on multifaceted interventions would be more effective in patient care than the dissemination of guidelines only. A cluster-randomized trial was conducted, with groups of general dental practitioners (GDPs) as the unit of randomization. Patients were clustered within practices and prospectively enrolled in the trial. Patient data were collected from registration forms. The primary outcome measure was guideline-adherent recall assignment, and a secondary outcome measure was guideline-adherent bitewing frequency. The interventions consisted of online training, guideline dissemination, and educational sessions. For low-risk patients, guideline-adherent recall increased in the intervention group (+8%), which differed from the control group (−6.1%) (p = 0.01). Guideline-adherent bitewings showed mixed results. We conclude that multifaceted intervention had a moderate but relevant effect on the performance of GDPs, which is consistent with other findings in primary care.
Bone Regeneration in Defects Compromised by Radiotherapy
Authors: Hu W.-W. , Ward B.B. , Wang Z. , Krebsbach P.H.
Published: December 2009

Because bone reconstruction in irradiated sites is less than ideal, we applied a regenerative gene therapy method in which a cell-signaling virus was localized to biomaterial scaffolds to regenerate wounds compromised by radiation therapy. Critical-sized defects were created in rat calvariae previously treated with radiation. Gelatin scaffolds containing lyophilized adenovirus encoding BMP-2 (AdBMP-2) or freely suspended AdBMP-2 were transplanted. Lyophilized AdBMP-2 significantly improved bone quality and quantity over free AdBMP-2. Bone mineral density was reduced after radiotherapy. Histological analyses demonstrated that radiation damage led to less bone regeneration. The woven bone and immature marrow formed in the radiated defects indicated that irradiation retarded normal bone development. Finally, we stored the scaffolds with lyophilized AdBMP-2 at −80°C to determine adenovirus stability. Micro-CT quantification demonstrated no significant differences between bone regeneration treated with lyophilized AdBMP-2 before and after storage, suggesting that virus-loaded scaffolds may be convenient for application as pre-made constructs.
Modulation of Masseteric Reflexes by Simulated Mastication
Authors: Naser-ud-Din S. , Sowman P.F. , Dang H. , Türker K.S.
Published: December 2009

It is well-known that limb muscle reflexes are modulated during human movements. However, little is known about the existence of equivalent masticatory muscle reflex modulation. We hypothesized that masticatory reflexes would be modulated during chewing so that smooth masticatory movements occur. To examine this hypothesis, we studied the modulation of inhibitory reflexes evoked by periodontal mechanoreceptor activation and of excitatory reflexes evoked by muscle spindle activation during simulated mastication. In 28 participants, 1- and 2-N mechanical taps were delivered to the incisor. Reflex responses to these taps were examined in the average masseteric electromyogram. To differentiate between periodontal mechanoreceptor- and muscle-spindle-mediated reflex components, we performed experiments prior to, and in the presence of, periodontal anesthesia. Both periodontal mechanoreceptor and muscle spindle reflexes were reduced during simulated masticatory movements.
MMP20 Hemopexin Domain Mutation in Amelogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Lee S.-K. , Seymen F. , Kang H.-Y. , Lee K.-E. , Gencay K. , Tuna B. , Kim J.-W.
Published: December 2009

Proteolytic enzymes serve important functions during dental enamel formation, and mutations in the kallikrein 4 ( KLK4) and enamelysin ( MMP20) genes cause autosomal-recessive amelogenesis imperfecta (ARAI). So far, only 1 KLK4 and 3 MMP20 mutations have been reported in ARAI kindreds. To determine whether ARAI in a family with a hypomaturation-type enamel defect is caused by mutations in the genes encoding enamel proteolytic enzymes, we performed mutational analysis on candidate genes. Mutational and haplotype analyses revealed an ARAI-causing point mutation (c.910G>A, p.A304T) in exon 6 of MMP20 that results in a single amino acid substitution in the hemopexin domain. Western blot analysis showed decreased expression of the mutant protein, but zymogram analysis demonstrated that this mutant was a functional protein. The proband and an affected brother were homozygous for the mutation, and both unaffected parents were carriers. The enamel of newly erupted teeth had normal thickness, but was chalky white and became darker with age.
Nicotine-induced CCN2: from Smoking to Periodontal Fibrosis
Authors: Takeuchi H. , Kubota S. , Murakashi E. , Zhou Y. , Endo K. , Ng P.S. , Takigawa M. , Numabe Y.
Published: December 2009

Since fibrosis is observed in smokers’ gingiva, it was hypothesized that fibrosis was caused by nicotine in the periodontium. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of nicotine on the induction of a profibrotic molecule, connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF), in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. With 1 μg/mL nicotine, vacuolization and attenuated proliferation were observed. Interestingly, 1 μg/mL nicotine increased the production of CCN2/CTGF protein in both cells without increasing mRNA expression. Furthermore, type I collagen mRNA and protein were also increased and were significantly blocked by a CCN2/CTGF neutralizing antibody. This is the first report to describe a relationship between nicotine and CCN2/CTGF in periodontal tissue cells. Analysis of our data also indicated that nicotine was cytotoxic, while it increased CCN2/CTGF and, eventually, type I collagen production. These findings suggest that periodontal fibrosis can be promoted by nicotine from smoking via effects on CCN2/CTGF.
Concerns of Hydrothermal Degradation in CAD/CAM Zirconia
Authors: Kim J.-W. , Covel N.S. , Guess P.C. , Rekow E.D. , Zhang Y.
Published: December 2009

Zirconia-based restorations are widely used in prosthetic dentistry; however, their susceptibility to hydrothermal degradation remains elusive. We hypothesized that CAD/CAM machining and subsequent surface treatments, i.e., grinding and/or grit-blasting, have marked effects on the hydrothermal degradation behavior of Y-TZP. CAD/CAM-machined Y-TZP plates (0.5 mm thick), both with and without subsequent grinding with various grit sizes or grit-blasting with airborne alumina particles, were subjected to accelerated aging tests in a steam autoclave. Results showed that the CAD/CAM-machined surfaces initially exhibited superior hydrothermal degradation resistance, but deteriorated at a faster rate upon prolonged autoclave treatment compared with ground and grit-blasted surfaces. The accelerated hydrothermal degradation of CAD/CAM surfaces is attributed to the CAD/CAM machining damage and the absence of surface compressive stresses in the fully sintered material. Clinical relevance for surface treatments of zirconia frameworks in terms of hydrothermal and structural stabilities is addressed.
Resin-modified Glass-ionomer Setting Reaction Competition
Authors: Berzins D.W. , Abey S. , Costache M.C. , Wilkie C.A. , Roberts H.W.
Published: December 2009

Resin-modified glass ionomers (RMGI) set by at least 2 mechanisms dependent upon reactant diffusion prior to gelation. Each reaction’s kinetics and setting mechanism may rely on and/or compete with the other. In this study, we investigated RMGI setting reaction interactions using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) by varying light-cure initiation times. A RMGI was analyzed with isothermal and dynamic temperature scan DSC with light-curing occurring immediately, or at 5 or 10 minutes after mixing as well as without light-activation. Results show that as time allowed for the acid-base reaction increased, the light-activation polymerization exotherm decreased. Conversely, analysis of DSC data suggests that earlier light-activation may limit the acid-base reaction and result in a different structured material. During early RMGI development, acid-base and light-polymerization reactions compete with and inhibit one another.
Community Variations in Violence: The Role of Social Ties and Collective Efficacy in Comparative Context
Authors: Mazerolle Lorraine , Wickes Rebecca , McBroom James
Published: December 2009

This article explores the relative roles of social ties and collective efficacy in explaining community variations in violent victimization in Australia. Using data from a survey of 2,859 residents across 82 communities in the city of Brisbane, coupled with official reported crime data provided by the Queensland Police Service and Australian Bureau of Statistics census data for 2001, the authors employ multilevel statistical models to depict the relative importance of social ties and collective efficacy in predicting between-neighborhood violent victimization in an Australian context. The models include measures of social relationships and community-based crime prevention programs, and the authors compare and contrast their findings with studies of collective efficacy in Chicago and Stockholm, finding similar results. These findings suggest that despite structural and cultural differences between the United States and Australia in particular, collective efficacy is a significant mechanism in explaining the spatial distribution of self-reported violent victimization in the Australian context. This research underscores the importance of cross-cultural theory testing and the need to further develop the measurement of ecological constructs such as social ties and organizational behavior.
“Does It Take a Village?” Assessing Neighborhood Influences on Children’s Self-Control
Authors: Gibson Chris L. , Sullivan Christopher J. , Jones Shayne , Piquero Alex R.
Published: December 2009

Although individuals low in self-control are more likely to engage in antisocial and criminal behavior, few studies have investigated its sources. Gottfredson and Hirschi argue that primary caregivers are largely responsible, whereas Wikström and Sampson contend that self-control is partially a function of neighborhood context. Using data from the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods, the authors assessed neighborhood effects on children’s self-control. They found significant variation in self-control between neighborhoods, but it accounted for a small amount of the total variance. In the initial model, neighborhood structural characteristics had direct effects on self-control, but after taking into account individual-level characteristics, they became nonsignificant. Furthermore, parenting variables exhibited significant and consistent effects on self-control. The authors consider the theoretical implications of the findings, address limitations, and provide suggestions for future research.
Civic Community, Population Change, and Violent Crime in Rural Communities
Authors: Lee Matthew R. , Thomas Shaun A.
Published: December 2009

This analysis investigates the relationships between measures of civic community, population change, and violent crime rates in rural communities. Rural communities that are civically robust are hypothesized to have lower violent crime rates and to experience less change in violent crime over time. Alternatively, sustained population change is hypothesized to elevate violent crime rates and to moderate the protective effect that civic robustness provides against violent crime over time. Results from both lagged panel and cross-sectional negative binomial regression models of county-level data support these expectations. In substantive terms, these findings suggest that civically robust communities are much better positioned to weather population change than civically weak communities, but continuous change over time compromises the protective effect that civic robustness provides against serious crime.
Fabric-evoked Prickle in Worsted Spun Single Jersey Fabrics Part 4: Extension from Wool to OptimTMfine Fiber
Authors: Naylor G.R.S.
Published: December 2009

The OptimTMfine process transforms the wool fiber to create a new range of fiber characteristics. Previous studies have identified and characterized the underlying mechanism associated with fabric-evoked prickle in wool fabrics. Coarse fiber ends in the fiber diameter distribution which protrude above the fabric surface exert sufficient force to trigger specific nerve endings which lie near the skin surface. This paper demonstrates that the existing mechanistic and predictive model of relative prickliness is applicable to fabrics manufactured from OptimTMfine fiber as well as wool. In general it was found that a fabric made from OptimTMfine fiber is less prickly than a similar fabric manufactured from the parent wool. This improvement in fabric-evoked prickle is linked to the reduction in fiber diameter associated with the Optim process. The measurement of the coarse edge of the diameter distribution of fiber ends, e.g. the percentage of fiber ends greater than 32 µm, is commonly used in assessing potential levels of prickle in wool samples. This is less useful in the case of Optim TMfine samples owing to potential artifacts in the measurement associated with the non-circular cross-sectional shape of OptimTMfine fibers.
Evaluation of the Structure of Monofilament PET Woven Fabrics and their UV Protection Properties
Authors: Dimitrovski Krste , Sluga Franci , Urbas Raša
Published: December 2009

The importance of protection against ultraviolet radiation (UV) is increasing daily. The dependence of the UV protection level on different clothes is determined by the shape and design of fabrics, and especially by their construction parameters. The fabric structure represents an important factor which is in most cases the only condition for good protection. Other possibilities to ensure good or even excellent protection, mainly by finishing treatments, can be efficient only if the fabric structure is closed enough. To determine the key parameters which contribute to the closeness of the structure and offer suitable UV protection, an analysis of monofilament woven fabric structure was made. Monofilament fabric samples used in the production of high-module screen-printing meshes, which are characterized by the excellent dimension stability of the structure, the properties of which change with varying diameters of the monofilaments and the fabric density, were chosen for this research. A broad spectrum of similar but structurally different fabrics assures referential samples are available for the evaluation of UV protection properties. In all the samples tested, the parameters of transmission and reflection were measured. Moreover, the values of absorption and the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) were calculated. The values calculated on the basis of a determined mathematical model matched well with the measured values and they can together represent the basis for successful planning of fabrics with suitable UV protection properties.
An Awkward Companion: Disability and the Semantic Landscape of English Lame
Authors: Aaron Jessi Elana
Published: December 2009

This article proposes a history of the English word lame, based on quantitative and qualitative evidence from twentieth-century corpora. A path of semantic development is proposed for lame in the twentieth century, from concrete contexts with animate referents to abstract contexts with inanimate referents and abstract contexts with human referents. While lame does participate in the universal tendencies of semantic generalization and subjectification, its participation in contextual generalization is skewed by the strong discursive power of its most common concrete use, human disability. It is suggested that the abstract meanings of lame are the result of the crystallization of frequently occurring inferences surrounding human impairment and disability.
Single‐Dose Pharmacokinetics of Sustained‐Release Fampridine (Fampridine‐SR) in Healthy Volunteers and Adults With Renal Impairment
Authors: Smith William , Swan Suzanne , Marbury Thomas , Henney Herbert
Published: December 2009

Fampridine‐SR is a sustained‐release formulation of fampridine (4‐aminopyridine), a potassium channel blocker demonstrated to improve walking ability in patients with multiple sclerosis. This study evaluated the pharmacokinetics of fampridine and its metabolites after administration of fampridine‐SR 10 mg in healthy volunteers and in subjects with mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment (5 per group). Analysis of variance was used to calculate 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for the ratios (impaired/healthy) of least squares mean in maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC). Clearance was primarily through urinary excretion. In renally impaired subjects, fampridine plasma concentrations were consistently higher than in healthy individuals: ratios for Cmax ranged from 166.5% to 199.9% for mild and severe renal impairment, respectively. AUC0–∞ ratios ranged from 175.3% to 398.7%, respectively, for mild and severe renal impairment. Mean terminal disposition half‐life was 6.4 hours in healthy individuals, compared with 7.4, 8.1, and 14.3 hours in patients with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment, respectively. Regression analysis confirmed the significant relationship between creatinine clearance and extent of exposure as quantified by AUC for fampridine and its metabolites, suggesting cautious use in patients with mild renal impairment and avoidance in cases of moderate or severe renal impairment.
Expertise Directory Development, Shared Task Interdependence, and Strength of Communication Network Ties as Multilevel Predictors of Expertise Exchange in Transactive Memory Work Groups
Authors: Yuan Y. Connie , Fulk Janet , Monge Peter R. , Contractor Noshir
Published: December 2009

Building on Kozlwoski and Klein’s emergence framework, this research developed and tested a set of multilevel hypotheses regarding individual and team transactive memory processes in work teams. Literature from social psychology suggested hypotheses on how shared task interdependence influences individual expertise exchange. Social network theory suggested hypotheses that individual expertise exchange is channeled according to communication tie strength. Using data collected from 218 individuals from 18 organizational teams, the proposed hypotheses were tested using hierarchical linear modeling techniques. The results showed that at the individual level the relationship between directory development and expertise exchange was mediated by communication tie strength and moderated by shared task interdependence.Team-level variables also were significantly related to individual-level outcomes such that individual expertise exchange happened more frequently in teams with well-developed team-level expertise directories, as well as with higher team communication tie strength and shared task interdependence.
The Changing Nature of the Israeli Reserve Forces: Present Crises and Future Challenges
Authors: Perliger Arie
Published: December 2009

The Israeli reservists played a major role in the protest movements that developed after the 1973 War and the First Lebanon War (1982–85). In other cases, debates about moral and political issues within the Israeli political system included petitions and rallies conducted by groups of reservists. How can scholars explain the special standing of the Israeli reservists within Israeli society? Why, during the 1970s and the 1980s, did the protests of the reservists lead to significant changes in the Israeli political and social arena, while this was not the case in the aftermath of the Second Lebanon War? The article explores these dilemmas by presenting different facets of the Israeli reserve army and its role in civil–military relations in Israel. The rationale for the establishment of the reserve army in Israel is discussed and is followed by an analysis of the changes the reserve forces have gone through since the establishment of the state.
Pharmacist-Led Group Medical Appointment Model in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Taveira Tracey H. , Friedmann Peter D. , Cohen Lisa B. , Dooley Andrea G. , Khatana Sameed Ahmed M. , Pirraglia Paul A. , Wu Wen-Chih
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess whether the VA-MEDIC (Veterans Affairs Multi-disciplinary Education and Diabetes Intervention for Cardiac risk reduction), a pharmacist-led group medical visit program, could improve achievement of target goals in hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and tobacco use in patients with type 2 diabetes compared to usual care.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial of VA-MEDIC intervention in addition to usual care versus usual care alone in diabetic patients to reduce cardiac risk factors. VA-MEDIC consisted of a 40- to 60-minute educational component by nurse, nutritionist, physical therapist, or pharmacist followed by pharmacist-led behavioral and pharmacological interventions over 4 weekly sessions.

Measures

The attainment of target goals in hemoglobin A1C (A1C), blood pressure, fasting lipids, and tobacco use recommended by the American Diabetes Association.

Results

Of 118 participants, 109 completed the study. VA-MEDIC (n = 58) participants were younger and had greater tobacco use at baseline than usual care but were similar in other cardiovascular risk factors. After 4 months, a greater proportion of VA-MEDIC participants versus controls achieved an A1C of less than 7% and a systolic blood pressure less than 130 mm Hg. No significant change was found in lipid control or tobacco use between the 2 study arms.

Conclusion

Pharmacist-led group medical visits are feasible and efficacious for improving cardiac risk factors.
Training Community Health Promoters to Implement Diabetes Self-Management Support Programs for Urban Minority Adults
Authors: Comellas Mariceli , Walker Elizabeth A. , Movsas Sharon , Merkin Sheryl , Zonszein Joel , Strelnick Hal
Published: December 2009

Objective

To develop, implement, and evaluate a peer-led diabetes self-management support program in English and Spanish for a diverse, urban, low-income population. The program goals and objectives were to improve diabetes self-management behaviors, especially becoming more physically active, healthier eating, medication adherence, problem solving, and goal setting.

Methods

After a new training program for peers led by a certified diabetes educator (CDE) was implemented with 5 individuals, this pilot evaluation study was conducted in 2 community settings in the East and South Bronx. Seventeen adults with diabetes participated in the new peer-led 5-session program. Survey data were collected pre- and postintervention on diabetes self-care activities, quality of well-being, and number of steps using a pedometer.

Results

This pilot study established the acceptance and feasibility of both the peer training program and the community-based, peer-led program for underserved, minority adults with diabetes. Significant improvements were found in several physical activity and nutrition activities, with a modest improvement in well-being. Feedback from both peer facilitators and participants indicated that a longer program, but with the same educational materials, was desirable.

Conclusions

To reduce health disparities in urban communities, it is essential to continue program evaluation of the critical elements of peer-led programs for multiethnic adults with diabetes to promote self-management support in a cost-effective and culturally appropriate manner.

Practice Implications

A diabetes self-management support program can be successfully implemented in the community by peers, within a model including remote supervision by a CDE.
Evaluation of blood components exposed to coated arterial filters in extracorporeal circuits
Authors: Hussaini Bader E. , Treanor Patrick R. , Healey Nancy A. , Tilahun Daniel , Srey Rithy , Lu Xiu-Gui , Khuri Shukri F. , Thatte Hemant S.
Published: December 2009

Background: Biocompatible surfaces play an important role in the inflammatory response during cardiopulmonary bypass (CBP), with the arterial filter contributing a large surface area of the circuit. Different filter-coating materials designed to improve blood-filter biocompatibility are currently used in CPB circuits. This study evaluates eight biocompatible coatings used for arterial filters and their effects on blood components during circulation. Methods: Arterial filters were randomly assigned in eight independent heparin-bonded tubing loops and perfused by a single swine (n=8). Arterial blood was routed simultaneously, but separately, into each circuit and circulated for 30 minutes at 37°C. Blood samples were drawn for CBC, ACT, and TAT III measurements at baseline, post-heparinization and post-circulation. At study completion, filters were imaged using multiphoton microscopy. Results: RBC, platelet, and WBC counts, and TAT III complex were all decreased after 30 minutes of circulation; however, WBC count was the only parameter that showed statistically significant differences between the filters. Circulating WBC reduction ranged from 6% (Carmeda and Trillium) to 41% (Terumo-X-coating) with corresponding microscopic confirmation of increased WBC entrapment. Conclusion: All eight filter coatings altered the blood components to varying degrees. Selection of the most effective filter, in conjunction with a heparin-bonded circuit for CPB, may decrease the intraoperative foreign-surface activation of blood cells.
Olanzapine, not resperidone, exacerbates β-cell function and mass in ovariectomized diabetic rats and estrogen replacement reverses them
Authors: Park Sunmin , Sang Mee Hong  , Il Sung Ahn  , Sung Hoon Kim
Published: December 2009

The effect of risperidone and olanzapine on β-cell function and mass was investigated in 90% pancreatectomized and ovariectomized female rats, of which some were treated with estrogen replacement and some were not. Ovariectomized diabetic rats were divided into two groups: one group received daily estrogen replacement (30 μg 17β-estradiol/kg body weight) and the other group received a vehicle. Each group was further divided into three subgroups and orally given either a placebo, risperidone (0.5 mg/kg body weight), or olanzapine (2 mg/kg body weight) each day in conjunction with a high-fat diet for eight weeks. Ovariectomy reduced serum prolactin levels, while risperidone and estrogen replacement increased them. Olanzapine, not risperidone, increased body weight gain and epididymal fats, and impaired glucose tolerance in ovariectomized diabetic rats, while estrogen replacement improved them. This was related to changes in insulin secretion capacity. Ovariectomized rats had decreased β-cell mass, due to decreasing β-cell proliferation, compared with Sham rats, and olanzapine, but not risperidone, caused further reduction. Olanzapine reduced IRS2 protein levels in the islets of ovariectomized rats. Decreased IRS2 attenuated the phosphorylation of Akt and, subsequently, PDX-1 protein levels were lowered in olanzapine-treated rats. Estrogen replacement activated insulin/IGF-1 signaling regardless of treatment. In conclusion, olanzapine, but not risperidone, exacerbated glucose homeostasis partly by attenuating β-cell function and mass in ovariectomized diabetic rats, while estrogen replacement reversed its negative impact. Further human studies are needed to support the claim that olanzapine should be avoided in the treatment of schizophrenic postmenopausal patients with diabetes.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors provide significant lower re-hospitalization rates in patients recovering from acute coronary syndromes: evidence from a meta-analysis
Authors: Mazza Marianna , Lotrionte Marzia , Biondi-Zoccai Giuseppe , Abbate Antonio , Sheiban Imad , Romagnoli Enrico
Published: December 2009

Depression is an independent negative prognostic factor in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), yet it is unclear if its treatment is beneficial after ACS. We sought to compare, through a meta-analytic process, antidepressant therapy with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) versus control treatment in patients with recent ACS. BioMedCentral, CENTRAL, ISI Web of Science, PsycInfo, and PubMed were searched for pertinent studies (November 2008). We selected studies with randomized allocation to antidepressant drug versus control in patients with acute or recent ACS reported as intention-to-treat. Exclusion criteria were: duplicate publication, regimen of antidepressant drug <4 weeks, follow-up <6 weeks or incomplete follow up, or a lack of clear/reproducible results. Changes from the baseline to the follow-up in depression score, major adverse cardiac events (MACE — including death, myocardial infarction, and repeat revascularization), and hospitalizations were pooled with random or fixed-effect methods. Five randomized trials (801 patients) were included. Fifteen studies were excluded because they were unpublished, ongoing, or duplicates. Subjects treated with antidepressant medications did not show, after a median of six months, a significant improvement in depression symptoms, although there was a trend for a reduction in depression scores. Besides, subjects treated with antidepressant medications showed a significantly lower rate of re-hospitalizations from all causes (risk difference (RD) = 14% (95% confidence interval: 5—23%), p = 0.001). Therapy with antidepressants was notably safe, with similar rates of adverse events, including MACE, death, myocardial infarction, or repeat revascularization (all p > 0.05). Treatment with SSRIs in patients recovering from ACS is associated with significant lower re-hospitalization rates. These data suggest that antidepressant therapy with SSRIs, given its efficacy and safety, should be routinely considered in patients with a recent ACS and depression symptoms.
Comparing effectiveness of risperidone with first-generation antipsychotic medications in patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders
Authors: Liew Alvin , Verma Swapna , Lye Yin Poon  , Edimansyah Abdin , Subramaniam Mythily , Vaingankar Janhavi , Siow Ann Chong
Published: December 2009

This naturalistic retrospective study aims to compare effectiveness of a second-generation antipsychotic medication, risperidone, with first-generation antipsychotic medications (haloperidol and trifluoperazine) in an Asian population with first-episode schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. A total of 261 patients were assessed for time to discontinuation for any reason and specific reasons of discontinuation, controlling for baseline differences between groups. Some 90% of patients discontinued their antipsychotic medications before 18 months. Median time to discontinuation for any reason in risperidone was 69 days versus first-generation antipsychotic medications of 27 days. Specifically, the risperidone group had a longer time to discontinuation for any reason than haloperidol (HR = 0.61, p = 0.005) and trifluoperazine groups (HR = 0.63, p = 0.03), as well as a longer time to discontinuation due to intolerability of side effects than haloperidol (HR = 0.50, p = 0.008) and trifluoperazine groups (HR = 0.26, p = 0.001). There were no significant differences between medications for time to discontinuation due to lack of efficacy, patient’s/family’s decisions or other reasons. We conclude that there is a very high rate of discontinuation of the initial antipsychotic medications for various reasons, with risperidone having an overall longer time to discontinuation compared with first-generation antipsychotic medications.