bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptualizing detention
Authors: Mountz Alison , Coddington Kate , Catania R. Tina , Loyd Jenna M.
Published: October 2012

Detention is a pressing empirical, conceptual, and political issue. Detained populations, detention facilities, and industries have expanded globally. Detention is also a fundamentally geographical topic, yet largely overlooked by geographers. We argue that detention be conceptualized as a series of geographical processes. Operating through these processes are contradictory sets of temporal and spatial logics that structure the seemingly paradoxical geographies underpinning detention. These logics include containment and mobility, bordering and exclusion. We trace these logics through an emergent literature, synthesizing and analyzing important geographic themes in the field. We identify contributions by and new avenues of inquiry for geographers.
A traction stress based shear strength definition for fillet welds
Authors: Nie Chunge , Dong Pingsha
Published: October 2012

In this paper, a traction stress based shear strength definition is presented for correlating weldment test data obtained from standard specimens such as those stipulated by AWS B4.0 as well as for applications in general structural design applications when finite element methods are used. With this proposed approach, well-documented discrepancies in shear strength between transverse and longitudinal shear tests can now be reconciled, resulting in a single shear strength value regardless of specimen types and loading conditions. The method should provide a basis for achieving a quantitative weld sizing in fillet weld design for structural applications. The paper starts with a brief description of major issues associated with strength data interpretation using the conventional shear stress formula given in AWS B4.0 which is widely used by various industries. After posing a series of candidate static failure criteria, an existing finite element solution technique for dealing with stress concentration effects on fatigue is then extended for applications in determining stress parameters that can be related to shear strength in standard shear test specimens. A large amount test data are then analyzed to judge the most appropriate failure criteria for shear strength characterization of fillet welds. An analytical solution is also developed both for validating the proposed shear strength definition and for gaining theoretical insights, e.g. on stress/strength relationship as a function of fillet weld and fillet weld geometry.
The engineering construction strikes in Britain, 2009
Authors: Gall Gregor
Published: October 2012

The militant, unofficial grassroots-led engineering construction strikes of 2009 dominated the news in Britain for many months, attaining international prominence because of their alleged xenophobia. To mainstream commentators, they appeared to be a throwback to a distant past, and inexplicable given that only a very few groups of workers are now seen as having the capability to undertake such action. Indeed, conventional explanations relied on using the alleged xenophobia as the motivating and organising rationale. This article examines the strikes, explaining their genesis, dynamics and achievements as well as their limitations. A key finding concerns how an industry class consciousness played a critical role in facilitating the workers’ ability to mount militant and successful collective action.
The Just Do It riots: A critical interpretation of the media’s violence
Authors: Taylor Paul Anthony
Published: October 2012

The 2011 UK riots were unusual for their apparent pointlessness. The significance of the riots was in fact their lack of obvious significance. Although critical theory is often disparaged for being unduly esoteric, recent exponents like Jean Baudrillard and Slavoj Žižek are shown to be highly useful at reaching a political understanding not present within mainstream journalism. Objective and subjective violence are concepts used in order to argue that an under-acknowledged form of violence in our society is one committed by a media that systematically displaces the deeper, underlying political causes of violence through excessive focus upon merely symptomatic outbreaks.
The August riots, shock and the prohibition of thought
Authors: Milburn Keir
Published: October 2012

In the immediate aftermath of the August 2011 riots discussion of their context and meaning was severely restricted. This paper examines this prohibition on thought through the construction of a concept of shock as an immobilising excess of unexpected information. Positioning this concept within the problematics of contemporary social movements, we then ask how shock absorbers might be built into movement practice by collectivising the reception of potentially ‘shocking’ information, producing the right conditions for collective analysis. In the aftermath of the riots, it is suggested here, the weak ties of social media proved less than adequate for such a task.
Marx, Cole and the Frankfurt School: Realising the political potential of critical social theory
Authors: Masquelier Charles
Published: October 2012

In this article, the author proposes that whilst Habermas’s attempt to conceptualise a political form oriented towards the institutionalisation of emancipatory practice represents a positive step for critical theory, it is best served by developing a theoretical framework that does not presuppose or apologise for the instrumental mastery of external nature. It is argued that in order to achieve such a task, the political potential of the critique of instrumental reason elaborated by the first generation of Frankfurt School theorists ought to be realised through the labour-mediated reconciliation of humanity with both internal and external nature, for which the libertarian socialism of G. D. H. Cole provides an adequate basis.
The Association Between Hypotonia and Brain Tumors in Children With Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Wessel Lauren E. , Albers Anne C. , Gutmann David H. , Dunn Courtney M.
Published: October 2012

Children with the neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) inherited tumor predisposition syndrome are at risk for the development of brain tumors. In addition, children with neurofibromatosis type 1 often exhibit low tone (hypotonia). In this study, the authors explored the hypothesis that hypotonia could be a clinical indicator of glioma in children with neurofibromatosis type 1. A total of 56 children between 1 and 7 years of age with a confirmed diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 1 were evaluated. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was available for 19 of these children. Chi-square analysis demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between hypotonia and glioma in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (90% sensitivity and 78% specificity). These results suggest that hypotonia might be a clinically useful indicator of brain tumor in this at-risk population.
Evaluation of Oral Glucose Tolerance Test in Children With Epilepsy
Authors: Varlamis Sotirios , Vavatsi Norma , Pavlou Evangelos , Kotsis Vasileios , Spilioti Martha , Kavga Maria , Varlamis George , Sotiriadou Foteini , Agakidou Eleni , Voutoufianakis Spyridon , Evangeliou Athanasios E.
Published: October 2012

Glucose metabolism of children with drug-resistant epilepsy, controlled by antiepileptic drugs epilepsy, and first-time nonfebrile seizures was studied through the performance of an oral glucose tolerance test and through insulin, C-peptide, and glycosylated hemoglobin measurements. In the refractory epilepsy group, there were more abnormal oral glucose tolerance test results (62.07%) in comparison to the controlled epilepsy group (25%) and the group of first-time seizures (21.21%). There was a significant difference between the group of refractory epilepsy and every other group concerning the abnormality of the oral glucose tolerance test ( P < .05). The mean values of insulin, HbA1c, and C-peptide levels were normal for all groups. The results of the present study suggest that there is a distinction of refractory epilepsies from the drug-controlled ones and the first-induced seizures relating to their metabolic profile, regardless of the type of seizures.
The Prevalence of Different Kinds of Child Abuse and the Characteristics That Differentiate Abused From Nonabused Male Adolescents
Authors: Mikaeili Niloofar , Barahmand Usha , Abdi Reza
Published: October 2012

Child abuse has proved to be one of the most important social challenges. The present study attempts (a) to determine the prevalence of child abuse in an urban area in Iran and (b) to differentiate abused from non-abused adolescent boys using parental and child characteristics. A survey was conducted to determine the prevalence of different types of child abuse. The prevalence sample comprised 2,100 students selected through a multistage random sampling procedure. Data were collected using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), Beck Depression Inventory, II (BDI-II), State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), modified Hazan & Shaver Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ) and Symptom Check List 90 (SCL-90-R). Descriptive statistics and discriminant function analysis were used to analyze the data. The results showed that 14.85% of the subjects were exposed to child abuse, with emotional abuse being most prevalent (52.09%). Also, it appeared that variables such as parental depression and anxiety and children’s attachment styles, anxiety, and aggression can help discriminate abused boys from their non-abused counterparts.
Teacher Education and African American Males
Authors: Townsend Walker Brenda L.
Published: October 2012

In this study, the author focuses on the exclusionary school and societal practices that route American males from schools to juvenile detention and adult prisons. Well documented are the linkages between these practices and dropping out or early school leaving. Leaving school without a diploma sets youth on a trajectory toward incarceration. Moreover, the disproportionate confinement of African American males in secure juvenile detention mirrors their experiences with school discipline. Given the potential influence of teacher and leadership preparation programs on pre- and in-service teacher and school practices, teacher educators must deconstruct and reverse pathways from the schoolhouse to the “Big House.” As an imperative, teacher educators must explicitly prepare school personnel to understand and address the complex factors that shuttle African American males from schools and into juvenile justice and adult correctional systems. Findings are reported from focus groups conducted with African American male adolescents who dropped out of school and were adjudicated. In addition, recommendations are provided for teacher educators to reverse school-to-prison pathways.
Increasing the Impact of Thought Leadership in Crisis Communication
Authors: Ulmer Robert R.
Published: October 2012

I argue that the field of crisis communication must move from a positive to a normative science to improve the practice of crisis communication. Through a positive science approach, our field has described and categorized how organizations currently communicate during a crisis. The evidence is clear that the majority of organizations struggle to communicate effectively during these events. As a result, we are reaching our limits for a positive science approach to crisis communication. Future thought leadership should focus on producing and testing normative theories that provide clear guidance to crisis communicators and society about how to communicate effectively. This transition in thought leadership will allow us to make a significant positive impact on society. This article concludes with an interdisciplinary research agenda for moving from a positive to a normative science in our thought leadership.
The Impact of Public Resource Dependence on the Autonomy of NPOs in Their Strategic Decision Making
Authors: Verschuere Bram , De Corte Joris
Published: October 2012

Private nonprofit organizations (NPO) involved in publically funded welfare programs face the challenge of maintaining autonomy in their strategic decision-making processes. In this article we study the extent to which NPO managers perceive this autonomy vis-à-vis government in defining the NPO’s mission, their working procedures, the target groups to be served and the results to be achieved. Empirical evidence is taken from a large-N sample of 255 NPOs engaged in social welfare provision in Belgium. Our findings suggest that public resource dependence does have a negative impact on the perception of NPOs about the level of organizational autonomy. Still, we will argue that, when looking at the relative share of public income in the NPO’s total budget, the nature and intensity of the consultation process between government and NPO and some measures of organizational capacity, this picture is less black and white than presumed.
Is TV Traumatic for All Youths? The Role of Preexisting Posttraumatic-Stress Symptoms in the Link Between Disaster Coverage and Stress
Authors: Weems Carl F. , Scott Brandon G. , Banks Donice M. , Graham Rebecca A.
Published: October 2012

In youths, watching TV coverage of a disaster is associated with traumatic-stress symptoms. However, the role of predisaster symptoms in this link has not been addressed. In this study, urban-school youths who had experienced both Hurricanes Katrina and Gustav ( N = 141; grades 4–8) were assessed 12 months and 6 months before Gustav and then 1 month after Gustav. The amount of TV viewing was associated with post-Gustav stress symptoms, controlling for pre-Gustav symptoms. However, pre-Gustav stress symptoms interacted with TV viewing in predicting post-Gustav symptoms such that for youths with higher preexisting symptoms, there was a stronger association between TV viewing and level of post-Gustav symptoms. The results advance the literature on the role of media coverage in stress reactions by showing that preexisting symptoms can be an important component of identifying which children are likely to be most negatively affected by TV coverage.
One-Year-Old Infants Follow Others’ Voice Direction
Authors: Rossano Federico , Carpenter Malinda , Tomasello Michael
Published: October 2012

We investigated 1-year-old infants’ ability to infer an adult’s focus of attention solely on the basis of her voice direction. In Studies 1 and 2, 12- and 16-month-olds watched an adult go behind a barrier and then heard her verbally express excitement about a toy hidden in one of two boxes at either end of the barrier. Even though they could not see the adult, infants of both ages followed her voice direction to the box containing the toy. Study 2 showed that infants could do this even when the adult was positioned closer to the incorrect box while she vocalized toward the correct one (and thus ruled out the possibility that infants were merely approaching the source of the sound). In Study 3, using the same methods as in Study 2, we found that chimpanzees performed the task at chance level. Our results show that infants can determine the focus of another person’s attention through auditory information alone—a useful skill for establishing joint attention.
Non-Gaussian Berkson errors in bioassay
Authors: Althubaiti Alaa , Donev Alexander
Published: October 2012

The experimental design plays an important role in every experimental study. However, if errors in the settings of the studied factors cannot be avoided, i.e. Berkson errors occur, the estimates of the model parameters may be biased and the variability in the study increased. Correction methods for the effect of Berkson errors are compared. The emphasis is on the study of correlated Berkson errors which follow non-Gaussian distribution as this appears to have been a neglected, yet important, area. It is shown that the regression calibration approach bias correction methods are useful when the Berkson errors are independent. However, when these errors are dependent, the newly proposed method B-SIMEX clearly outperforms the other methods.
Comparing paired biomarkers in predicting quantitative health outcome subject to random censoring
Authors: Liu Xinhua , Jin Zhezhen , Graziano Joseph H
Published: October 2012

This paper uses a non-parametric test, based on consistently estimated discrimination accuracy defined as concordance probability between quantitative predictor and outcome, to compare paired biomarkers in predicting a health outcome, possibly subject to random censoring. Comparing with the Wilcoxon test for paired predictors based on Harrell’s C-index, we found that the proposed test is better in presence of random censoring, although the two unbiased tests are equivalent for outcome either uncensored or censored by a constant. A simulation study also demonstrates that the bias in estimated difference in concordance probability, due to ignoring random censoring, results in overestimated power, especially when random censoring is heavy. The method was applied in two studies, where the biomarkers measured from the same study subjects are correlated. The first study on 299 school children in Bangladesh found the associations that higher blood arsenic and manganese were related to lower intellectual test scores, while the differences between the biomarkers in predicting the intellectual test scores were not statistically significant. The second study on 418 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis found that the baseline serum bilirubin had greater discrimination accuracy than the baseline serum albumin in predicting survival time.
Classification using longitudinal trajectory of biomarker in the presence of detection limits
Authors: Kim Yeonhee , Kong Lan
Published: October 2012

Discriminant analysis is commonly used to evaluate the ability of candidate biomarkers to separate patients into pre-defined groups. Recent extension of discriminant analysis to longitudinal data enables us to improve the classification accuracy based on biomarker profiles rather than on a single biomarker measurement. However, the biomarker measurement is often limited by the sensitivity of the given assay, resulting in data that are censored at either the lower or the upper limit of detection. Inappropriate handling of censored data may affect the classification accuracy of biomarker and hinder the evaluation of its potential discrimination power. We develop a discriminant analysis method for censored longitudinal biomarker data based on mixed models and evaluate its performance by area under the receiver operation characteristic curve. Through the simulation study, we show that our method is better than the simple substitution methods in terms of parameter estimation and evaluating biomarker performance. Application to a biomarker study of patients with acute kidney injury demonstrates that our method may shed light on the potential clinical utility of biomarkers by taking into account both longitudinal trajectory and limit of detection issues.
The limitations of simple gene set enrichment analysis assuming gene independence
Authors: Tamayo Pablo , Steinhardt George , Liberzon Arthur , Mesirov Jill P
Published: October 2012

Since its first publication in 2003, the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis method, based on the Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistic, has been heavily used, modified, and also questioned. Recently a simplified approach using a one-sample t-test score to assess enrichment and ignoring gene-gene correlations was proposed by Irizarry et al. 2009 as a serious contender. The argument criticizes Gene Set Enrichment Analysis’s nonparametric nature and its use of an empirical null distribution as unnecessary and hard to compute. We refute these claims by careful consideration of the assumptions of the simplified method and its results, including a comparison with Gene Set Enrichment Analysis’s on a large benchmark set of 50 datasets. Our results provide strong empirical evidence that gene–gene correlations cannot be ignored due to the significant variance inflation they produced on the enrichment scores and should be taken into account when estimating gene set enrichment significance. In addition, we discuss the challenges that the complex correlation structure and multi-modality of gene sets pose more generally for gene set enrichment methods.
Obtaining evidence by a single well-powered trial or several modestly powered trials
Authors: IntHout Joanna , Ioannidis John PA , Borm George F
Published: October 2012

There is debate whether clinical trials with suboptimal power are justified and whether results from large studies are more reliable than the (combined) results of smaller trials. We quantified the error rates for evaluations based on single conventionally powered trials (80% or 90% power) versus evaluations based on the random-effects meta-analysis of a series of smaller trials. When a treatment was assumed to have no effect but heterogeneity was present, the error rates for a single trial were increased more than 10-fold above the nominal rate, even for low heterogeneity. Conversely, for meta-analyses on a series of trials, the error rates were correct. When selective publication was present, the error rates were always increased, but they still tended to be lower for a series of trials than single trials. We conclude that evidence of efficacy based on a series of (smaller) trials, may lower the error rates compared with using a single well-powered trial. Only when both heterogeneity and selective publication can be excluded, a single trial is able to provide conclusive evidence.
Estimating controlled direct effects in the presence of intermediate confounding of the mediator–outcome relationship: Comparison of five different methods
Authors: Lepage B , Dedieu D , Savy N , Lang T
Published: October 2012

In mediation analysis between an exposure X and an outcome Y, estimation of the direct effect of X on Y by usual regression after adjustment for the mediator M may be biased if Z is a confounder between M and Y, and is also affected by X. Alternative methods have been described to avoid such a bias: inverse probability of treatment weighting with and without weight truncation, the sequential g-estimator and g-computation. Our aim was to compare the usual linear regression adjusted for M to these methods when estimating the controlled direct effect between X and Y in the causal structure and to explore the size of the potential bias. Estimations were computed in several simulated data sets as well as real data. We observed an increased bias of the controlled direct effect estimation using linear regression adjusted for M for larger effects of X on M and larger effects of Z on M. The sequential g-estimator and g-computation gave unbiased estimations with adequate coverage values in every situation studied. With continuous exposure X and mediator M, inverse probability of treatment weighting resulted in some bias and less satisfactory coverage for large effects of X on M and Z on M.
Comparison of two drug safety signals in a pharmacovigilance data mining framework
Authors: Tubert-Bitter Pascale , Bégaud Bernard , Ahmed Ismaïl
Published: October 2012

Since adverse drug reactions are a major public health concern, early detection of drug safety signals has become a top priority for regulatory agencies and the pharmaceutical industry. Quantitative methods for analyzing spontaneous reporting material recorded in pharmacovigilance databases through data mining have been proposed in the last decades and are increasingly used to flag potential safety problems. While automated data mining is motivated by the usually huge size of pharmacovigilance databases, it does not systematically produce relevant alerts. Moreover, each detected signal requires appropriate assessment that may involve investigation of the whole therapeutic class. The goal of this article is to provide a methodology for comparing two detected signals. It is nested within the automated surveillance framework as (1) no extra information is required and (2) no simple inference on the actual risks can be extrapolated from spontaneous reporting data. We designed our methodology on the basis of two classical methods used for automated signal detection: the Bayesian Gamma Poisson Shrinker and the frequentist Proportional Reporting Ratio. A simulation study was conducted to assess the performances of both proposed methods. The latter were used to compare cardiovascular signals for two HIV treatments from the French pharmacovigilance database.
‘Without Us, Sex Workers will Die Like Weeds’: Sex Work and Client Violence in Kamathipura
Authors: Karandikar Sharvari , Gezinski Lindsay B.
Published: October 2012

This study explores male clients’ perceptions of gender-based violence against female sex workers of the Kamathipura red-light area in Mumbai, India. In-depth interviewing methods were used to collect data from 13 male clients. Three critical themes were identified: (1) male role transitioning from client to intimate partner to pimp; (2) male validation and rationalisation of sex work as a profession; and (3) patriarchal male perceptions resulting in violence against sex workers. Respondents emphasised the importance of legalising sex work so that women from ‘good’ families would not be raped. Respondents also admitted to using physical violence against sex workers on a regular basis. The findings of this study indicate the urgent need for gender sensitisation workshops for male intimate partners to break patriarchal values. Inclusion of males in community-based interventions to combat violence is also highly recommended.
The Strength of Collective Processes: An ‘Outcome Analysis’ of Women’s Collectives in India
Authors: Desouza Shaila
Published: October 2012

Mainstream literature on organising usually assumes formal hierarchical structure, clear lines of reporting, supervision and well-defined rules as mandatory for efficiency and efficacy. Rigid rules could, however, negatively impact involvement, satisfaction, motivation and performance as they would not take into consideration the complexities of human behaviour. This article argues that collective or non-hierarchical organising empowers the individual participants involved in the process, but such organising experiments are rare and seldom documented. The article analyses a few women’s collectives from around the country, particularly focusing on Bailancho Saad, in Goa, which turned 25 years old on 12 October 2011. It also draws on the experiences of Saheli in New Delhi and Forum in Mumbai, both of which are older. These organisations, ideologically opposed to hierarchy as well as patriarchal and dominating power structures, work for women through seemingly egalitarian processes and ‘participatory’ styles of functioning. In this article we look at some of the strengths of collective organising by analysing their outcomes.
Queer Women and Habeas Corpus in India: The Love that Blinds the Law1
Authors: Arasu Ponni , Thangarajah Priya
Published: October 2012

The article employs the example of the use of the writ of Habeas Corpus in cases involving lesbian women in India. These cases, few and far between, provide a broad canvas to theoretically reflect on the relationship of the lives of queer women with the law as well as with the women’s movement and the queer movement in India. The article proposes a critical analyses of the way the law frames identities, struggles and movements and suggests possible direction for theoretical perspectives that take on this nexus and evolve a language that is closer to the reality of the lives addressed in legal, academic and activist work, with all its conflicts, contradictions and chaos.
On Adverse Sex Ratios in Some Indian States
Authors: Bhattacharya Prabir C.
Published: October 2012

This article highlights certain facts about the sex ratio (the number of females per thousand males) of the population in some Indian states, especially in the north-east of the country. The states in the north-east are ethnically, linguistically and culturally very distinct from the other states of India. We note that while female children survive better in this region than elsewhere in India, women in the older age group seem to fare worse than men in these states. Some hypotheses are offered to explain sex ratios in these states.
Memorialization in Academe
Authors: Musambira George W.
Published: October 2012

This study examines the extent to which the Memorial Attribute Model accounts for the memorials posted on the Communication Research and Theory Network (CRTNET). Results show that the model’s strength is its emphasis on the surrogacy function of memorials and the role that relationships between author and deceased play in illuminating the memorial content, length and author motivations. Colleagues are the most prolific authors of CRTNET memorials while ‘colleague and friend’ was the most frequent combination of author–deceased relationships indicated in the memorials. However, the model falls short of recognizing the prominence of expressing admiration and gratitude for the deceased above expression of grief, addressing unfinished business and treating the deceased as a social presence.
Mobile Gaming
Authors: Chaudhary Anju Grover
Published: October 2012

With more than 811 million mobile subscribers as of March 2011 (Sohoni 2011), India not only ranks as the second largest mobile phone customer base in the world after China with 900 million mobile phone subscribers ( China Has Over 900 Mobile Users…, 2011) but is believed to have one of the highest penetration of cell phones since they are expected to reach more than 97 per cent of the country’s population of 1.26 billion by 2014 ( India’s Cellphone Users… 2011). Moreover, the Indian mobile entertainment industry itself is witnessing a tremendous growth according to the industry specialists who have predicted that the market will reach up to $4.9 billion by 2015 (Srikaparchi 2011). This is a substantial increase from $1.2 billion in 2009, which puts it at the compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26 per cent in the period 2009–2015. This significant growth of the mobile entertainment industry can be attributed to a number of factors, including the booming economy as a result of the rising middle class, growth of the mobile handset market, localization of entertainment content, rise in the number of service providers and gaming companies as well as foreign collaborations.

The rising middle class is one of the determining factors in the growth of the mobile gaming industry. According to a report of the National Council for Applied Economic Research’s (NCAER) Center for Macro Consumer Research, there will be 267 million middle class people in India by 2015–16, thus providing a great market opportunity for the mobile entertainment industry (Press Trust of India 2011). Moreover, having more than half the population below the age group of 25 is another reason why the gaming industry will flourish in the future as it is the younger generation who is technically savvy and more likely than adults to use mobiles for information and entertainment. With the booming economy, availability of low-priced devices and better network coverage, rural people are also in the market for using cellphones for edutainment purposes.
Policy Approaches to Address the Social and Environmental Determinants of Health Inequity in Asia-Pacific
Authors: Friel Sharon , Loring Belinda , Aungkasuvapala Narongsakdi , Baum Fran , Blaiklock Alison , Chiang Tung-liang , Cho Youngtae , Dakulala Paison , Guo Yan , Hashimoto Hideki , Horton Kellie , Jayasinghe Saroj , Matheson Don , Nguyen Huong Thanh , Otto Caleb , Rao Mala , Reid Paaparangi , Surjadi Charles
Published: October 2012

Asia Pacific is home to over 60% of the world’s population and the fastest growing economies. Many of the leadership in the Asia Pacific region is becoming increasingly aware that improving the conditions for health would go a long way to sustaining economic prosperity in the region, as well as improving global and local health equity. There is no biological reason why males born in Cambodia can expect to live 23 years less than males born in Japan, or why females born in Tuvalu live 23 years shorter than females in New Zealand or why non-Indigenous Australian males live 12 years longer than Indigenous men. The nature and drivers of health inequities vary greatly among different social, cultural and geo-political contexts and effective solutions must take this into account. This paper utilizes the CSDH global recommendations as a basis for looking at the actions that are taking place to address the structural drivers and conditions of daily living that affect health inequities in the Asia Pacific context. While there are signs of action and hope, substantial challenges remain for health equity in Asia Pacific. The gains that have been made to date are not equally distributed and may be unsustainable as the world encounters new economic, social and environmental challenges. Tackling health inequities is a political imperative that requires leadership, political courage, social action, a sound evidence base and progressive public policy.
Evidence of Social Contextual Effects on Adolescent Smoking in South Korea
Authors: Jung Minsoo , Chung Dongjun
Published: October 2012

This study explores the effect of psychological and social factors on smoking behavior among male and female adolescents in South Korea. A cross-sectional analysis was carried out via multilevel logistic regression with pupils at the first level and schools at the second level. The data were collected in 2003 using a nationally representative sample of 3449 students from 100 South Korean middle schools. For both genders, adolescents were more likely to smoke if and when they had lower academic grades, had a higher disposable monetary allowance from their parents, had more friends who smoked, and if the smoking rate at their school was higher. Psychological factors, however, were not factors that significantly influenced smoking. Consequently, the principal contextual factors related to adolescent smoking are the smoking rates in schools and among peer groups. Thus, an antismoking campaign incorporating social environmental factors may be useful in reducing the rates of adolescent smoking.
Individual Worker-Level Attitudes Toward Empirically Supported Treatments
Authors: Patterson David A. , Maguin Eugene , Dulmus Catherine N. , Nisbet Bruce C.
Published: October 2012

Objectives: There is a growing literature indicating that organizational and individual worker-level factors affect decisions about whether or not empirically supported treatments (ESTs) are adopted within health care agencies. The purpose of this pilot study is to further investigate and measure worker’s attitudes within a community organization. Method: A small organization participated in the study due to their diversity in services offered. Of the 92 workers eligible for participation in the study, 66 (72%) completed the Evidence-Based Practice Attitude scale survey. Results: Multivariate analyses revealed that female workers scored higher on both Openness and total score; workers with nursing, education, or psychology majors scored lower than workers with other (excluding social work) majors on both Divergence and total score; and that older workers scored higher on Divergence. Conclusion: Although small, this study identifies individual characteristics that are most likely to fit the profile of an EST adopter.
Differences in Parent and Teacher Ratings of Preschool Problem Behavior in a National Sample
Authors: Graves Scott L. , Blake Jamilia , Kim Eun Sook
Published: October 2012

Previous research has demonstrated that informant disagreement is common with the use of rating scales to assess problem behavior in school-age populations. However, much less is known about this phenomenon in preschool populations. This is important because the accurate assessment of problem behavior in preschool is complex due to the rapid developmental shifts during this period. As such, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of students at risk of behavior problems and to see whether these problems varied as a function of informant and ecological characteristics. Using the Behavior Assessment System for Children–Second Edition, we analyzed parent and teacher ratings for 320 preschool children. Results indicated that parent and teacher ratings were very similar, with males being rated as more at risk of having attention problems and social skill deficits in comparison with females. No differences were noted in at-risk status by ethnic group membership. Conversely, significant and consistent parent and teacher ratings were noted by socioeconomic status (e.g., parent education level). Implications are discussed for the prevention of problem behavior in preschool.
Accuracy in Categorizing Perceptually Ambiguous Groups
Authors: Tskhay Konstantin O. , Rule Nicholas O.
Published: October 2012

Since the 1940s, social psychologists have conducted research testing whether it is possible to accurately identify members of perceptually ambiguous groups. This study quantitatively reviews the research on the perception of ambiguous groups to better understand the human capacity to accurately identify others based on very subtle nonverbal cues. Standard random-effects meta-analytic techniques were used to examine the distinctions between different target groups in terms of their identifiability, as well as to compare rates of accuracy across perceptual modalities (e.g., photographs, audio, video) and other study design differences. Overall, the accuracy of identifying targets was significantly better than chance guessing (i.e., 64.5%). Furthermore, stimulus modality was found to be a moderator of accuracy. Other moderators (e.g., time of exposure, analytic approach) were identified and examined. These data help to document and characterize broad trends in the proliferating and expanding study of the perception and categorization of ambiguous social groups.
The Effect of Stress on Cognitive Structuring
Authors: Bar-Tal Yoram , Shrira Amit , Keinan Giora
Published: October 2012

In this article, we outline a model of the factors involved in the relationship between stress and cognitive structuring. More specifically, we propose that the desire for certainty, the need for cognitive structure, and perceived efficacy at satisfying one’s epistemic needs intervene in the effect exerted by stress on cognitive structuring. We further suggest expanding the model to account for aspects of general information processing and to encompass the effect of various trait-like characteristics on the cognitive response to stress. We also offer an account of the possible effects of extreme stress on the model’s components.
Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of β-amyloid metabolism in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Augutis Kristin , Axelsson Markus , Portelius Erik , Brinkmalm Gunnar , Andreasson Ulf , Gustavsson Mikael K , Malmeström Clas , Lycke Jan , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Mattsson Niklas
Published: October 2012

Background:

Amyloid precursor protein (APP) and amyloid β (Aβ) peptides are intensely studied in neuroscience and their cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) measurements may be used to track the metabolic pathways of APP in vivo. Reduced CSF levels of Aβ and soluble APP (sAPP) fragments are reported in inflammatory diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS); but in MS, the precise pathway of APP metabolism and whether it can be affected by disease-modifying treatments remains unclear.

Objective:

To characterize the CSF biomarkers of APP degradation in MS, including the effects of disease-modifying therapy.

Methods:

CSF samples from 87 MS patients (54 relapsing–remitting (RR) MS; 33 secondary progressive (SP) MS and 28 controls were analyzed for sAPP and Aβ peptides by immunoassays, plus a subset of samples was analyzed by immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry (IP-MS). Patients treated with natalizumab or mitoxantrone were examined at baseline, and after 1–2 years of treatment.

Results:

CSF sAPP and Aβ peptide levels were reduced in MS patients; but they increased again towards normal, after natalizumab treatment. A multivariate model of IP-MS-measured Aβ species separated the SPMS patients from controls, with RRMS patients having intermediate levels.

Conclusions:

We confirmed and extended our previous observations of altered CSF sAPP and Aβ peptide levels in MS patients. We found that natalizumab therapy may be able to counteract the altered APP metabolism in MS. The CSF Aβ isoform distribution was found to be distinct in SPMS patients, as compared to the controls.
Treatment with 4-aminopyridine improves upper limb tremor of a patient with multiple sclerosis: a video case report
Authors: Schniepp Roman , Jakl Veronika , Wuehr Max , Havla Joachim , Kümpfel Tanja , Dieterich Marianne , Strupp Michael , Jahn Klaus
Published: October 2012

The reversible potassium channel blocker 4-aminopyridine is effective in the treatment of numerous cerebellar dysfunctions, such as episodic ataxia type 2 and downbeat nystagmus syndrome. In 2011, its sustained release form, dalfampridine, was admitted in Europe for the treatment of walking difficulties in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Here we report the case of a 44-year old patient with a progressive MS whose upper limb tremor was markedly reduced under treatment with 4-aminopyridine, as documented in a Tremor Activities of Daily Living questionnaire and in the 9-Hole Peg test. Hand accelerations decreased in the left hand from 10.9 m/sec2 to 2.2 m/sec2 and in the right hand from 4.2 m/sec2 to 0.9 m/sec2.

This case report indicates for the first time that 4-aminopyridine might be effective in the symptomatic treatment of tremor entities in patients with MS. The finding calls for further prospective studies to determine the usefulness of 4-aminopyridine or its sustained-release form dalfampridine in treating patients with tremor and MS.
Tumefactive demyelinating lesions during etanercept treatment requiring decompressive hemicraniectomy
Authors: Cereda CW , Zecca C , Mazzucchelli L , Valci L , Staedler C , Bassetti CL , Gobbi C
Published: October 2012

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a pro-inflammatory and immunoregulatory cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune disorders. Etanercept, a TNF-α antagonist (anti-TNF-α) acting as a soluble TNF-α receptor, has been associated with neurological demyelinating disorders. This paper aims to report an unusual case showing tumefactive central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory demyelination in a patient in the course of TNF -α antagonist therapy, requiring decompressive hemicraniectomy. This report is based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and histology. A biopsy confirmed the inflammatory demyelinating nature of the lesions. The clinical presentation is unusual due to the severity of the disease process, requiring decompressive hemicraniotomy with a clinically favorable outcome.
Dielectric and microwave properties of natural rubber-based composites tailored by the fillers specific features
Authors: Al-Hartomy Omar A , Al-Ghamdi Ahmed A , Al-Solamy Falleh R , Dishovsky Nikolay , Slavcheva Desislava , Iliev Vladimir , El-Tantawy Farid
Published: October 2012

This article presents the results on the effect of specific characteristics of four completely different carbon black types upon the dielectric and microwave properties of natural rubber based composites. It has been found that the proneness of carbon black particles to interact, aggregate and agglomerate affects the dielectric properties of the composites much more than their microwave ones. The proneness of carbon black particles to form chains, aggregates and agglomerates affects unfavorably the microwave properties of the composite thus filled. Fullerene carbon black having the lowest specific surface area and proneness to aggregate and agglomerate yields good microwave properties of the composites.The study demonstrates that the dielectric and microwave properties of rubber composites can be tailored via an appropriate selection of filler which specific chemical nature and structure are capable of yielding the parameters required for the particular applications.
Fascism – revolutionary departure to an alternative modernity? A response to Roger Griffin’s ‘Exploding the Continuum of History'
Authors: Saage Richard
Published: October 2012

If one looks at the controversial premises of analytical approaches to fascism according to Roger Griffin, it is not surprising that a yawning distance has opened up between Marxist and non-Marxist schools of interpretation. In this situation whereby two camps are mutually ignorant of one another, it is certainly suggestive that the liberal British theoretician of fascism should put himself forward to play the role of a ‘mediator’, even if he faces the danger of significant criticism from both schools of interpretation. But Griffin’s attempt takes place on a predominantly theoretical level. The author of this essay instead places the notion of revolution in historical-empirical perspective, in order to distinguish it from the account associated with (liberal) representatives of the ‘new consensus’. He then examines, in particular, whether National Socialism represented a utopia which satisfied revolutionary aspirations. The author further asks whether fascism could separate itself from its (early) conservative support to an extent that would permit commentators to meaningfully identify a revolutionary breakthrough. And finally he clarifies what the modernizing achievements of fascism during its time in power actually were. Against this background, there does seem at least the possibility of a dialogue between the two approaches that would advance each of them.
On Benjamin’s Theses, or the utility of the concept of historical time
Authors: Renton David
Published: October 2012

Abstract:

Roger Griffin’s paper points towards the importance of historical time when discussing fascism. Walter Benjamin’s Theses, the discussion of which informs Griffin’s paper, engages with the topic of historical time at several points, especially in its discussion of the theory of progress that Benjamin found in German Social Democracy, to which the Theses was directly opposed. Revisiting sympathetically a theory of progress akin to that of Karl Kautsky and other Marxist writers enables us to add substance to the key Marxist concept of fascism as a reactionary movement. Combining this idea with an emphasis on the autonomous, mass character of fascism enables us to grasp the dynamics of fascism as a contradictory whole: a future-orientated and activist politics without revolutionary content.
Fascism, capitalism, modernity
Authors: Pellicani Luciano
Published: October 2012

In this article I respond to the important questions raised by Roger Griffin and David D. Roberts by asserting the following points. First, that there is no justification to the position that the historical function of fascism was to establish the political hegemony of finance capital, as Marxist-Leninist scholars have maintained without providing a shred of evidence in support of their position. On the contrary, fascism was an epochal phenomenon which occured on several continents and had features which point to a declaration of war against bourgeois society, its power structures, its values and its way of life. It was a revolt generated by disgust for a world dominated by those whom Hitler called ‘the worshippers of Mammon’. Second, that fascism was not at all an alternative modernity, but a violent and radical reaction which rejected all the values and institutions of the modern world, from individual freedom to the rights of man and citizen, from pluralist democracy to secularization. Third, that the history of fascism, like the history of communism, has shown that ideas are no mere fantasmagorical reflexes of the socioeconomic structure, as Marxist sociology claims. This was demonstrated by its political ideology, which was intent on revolutionizing the foundations of society and producing a new man, diametrically opposed to the ‘bourgeois’.