bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antitumor Action of the MET Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Crizotinib (PF-02341066) in Gastric Cancer Positive for MET Amplification
Authors: Okamoto Wataru , Okamoto Isamu , Arao Tokuzo , Kuwata Kiyoko , Hatashita Erina , Yamaguchi Haruka , Sakai Kazuko , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Nishio Kazuto , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: June 2012

Therapeutic strategies that target the tyrosine kinase MET hold promise for gastric cancer, but the mechanism underlying the antitumor activity of such strategies remains unclear. We examined the antitumor action of the MET tyrosine kinase inhibitor crizotinib (PF-02341066) in gastric cancer cells positive or negative for MET amplification. Inhibition of MET signaling by crizotinib or RNA interference–mediated MET depletion resulted in induction of apoptosis accompanied by inhibition of AKT and extracellular signal–regulated kinase phosphorylation in gastric cancer cells with MET amplification but not in those without it, suggesting that MET signaling is essential for the survival of MET amplification–positive cells. Crizotinib upregulated the expression of BIM, a proapoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family, as well as downregulated that of survivin, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), and c-IAP1, members of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein family, in cells with MET amplification. Forced depletion of BIM inhibited crizotinib-induced apoptosis, suggesting that upregulation of BIM contributes to the proapoptotic effect of crizotinib. Crizotinib also exhibited a marked antitumor effect in gastric cancer xenografts positive for MET amplification, whereas it had little effect on those negative for this genetic change. Crizotinib thus shows a marked antitumor action both in vitro and in vivo specifically in gastric cancer cells positive for MET amplification. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(7); 1557–64. ©2012 AACR.
Association of Early Repolarization and Sudden Cardiac Death During an Acute Coronary Event
Authors: Tikkanen Jani T. , Wichmann Viktor , Junttila M. Juhani , Rainio Meri , Hookana Eeva , Lappi Olli-Pekka , Kortelainen Marja-Leena , Anttonen Olli , Huikuri Heikki V.
Published: June 2012

Background—

Electrocardiographic early repolarization (ER) pattern has been previously associated with arrhythmic mortality and with an increased risk of ventricular fibrillation. We hypothesized that there is an association between ER and sudden cardiac death (SCD) during an acute coronary event.

Methods and Results—

The present study included 432 consecutive victims of SCD because of acute coronary event and 532 survivors of such an event, in whom 12-lead ECGs recorded before and unrelated to the event could be evaluated. SCDs were verified by medicolegal autopsy to be because of acute coronary event. ER was defined as an elevation of the QRS-ST junction in at least 2 inferior or lateral leads, manifested as QRS notching or slurring. The prevalence of ER pattern ≥0.1 mV was more common in cases (62/432; 14.4%) than controls (42/532; 7.9%) (
P
=0.001). The victims of SCD were younger, were more commonly men and smokers, had lower body mass index, had elevated heart rate, had prolonged QRS complex, and had lower prevalence of history of prior cardiovascular disease than controls. After adjustments for baseline differences, the odds ratio for J waves without ST-segment elevation in the SCD group was 2.15 (95% CI, 1.20–3.85;
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

Higher prevalence of ER in a standard 12-lead ECG in victims of SCD than in survivors of an acute coronary event suggests that the presence of ER increases the vulnerability to fatal arrhythmia during acute myocardial ischemia and provides a plausible mechanistic link between this ECG pattern and higher arrhythmic mortality of middle-aged/elderly subjects.
Enhanced Ca
2+
-Sensing Receptor Function in Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Yamamura Aya , Guo Qiang , Yamamura Hisao , Zimnicka Adriana M. , Pohl Nicole M. , Smith Kimberly A. , Fernandez Ruby A. , Zeifman Amy , Makino Ayako , Dong Hui , Yuan Jason X.-J.
Published: June 2012

Rationale:

A rise in cytosolic Ca
2+
concentration ([Ca
2+
]
cyt
) in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMC) is an important stimulus for pulmonary vasoconstriction and vascular remodeling. Increased resting [Ca
2+
]
cyt
and enhanced Ca
2+
influx have been implicated in PASMC from patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH).

Objective:

We examined whether the extracellular Ca
2+
-sensing receptor (CaSR) is involved in the enhanced Ca
2+
influx and proliferation in IPAH-PASMC and whether blockade of CaSR inhibits experimental pulmonary hypertension.

Methods and Results:

In normal PASMC superfused with Ca
2+
-free solution, addition of 2.2 mmol/L Ca
2+
to the perfusate had little effect on [Ca
2+
]
cyt
. In IPAH-PASMC, however, restoration of extracellular Ca
2+
induced a significant increase in [Ca
2+
]
cyt
. Extracellular application of spermine also markedly raised [Ca
2+
]
cyt
in IPAH-PASMC but not in normal PASMC. The calcimimetic R568 enhanced, whereas the calcilytic NPS 2143 attenuated, the extracellular Ca
2+
-induced [Ca
2+
]
cyt
rise in IPAH-PASMC. Furthermore, the protein expression level of CaSR in IPAH-PASMC was greater than in normal PASMC; knockdown of CaSR in IPAH-PASMC with siRNA attenuated the extracellular Ca
2+
-mediated [Ca
2+
]
cyt
increase and inhibited IPAH-PASMC proliferation. Using animal models of pulmonary hypertension, our data showed that CaSR expression and function were both enhanced in PASMC, whereas intraperitoneal injection of the calcilytic NPS 2143 prevented the development of pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular hypertrophy in rats injected with monocrotaline and mice exposed to hypoxia.

Conclusions:

The extracellular Ca
2+
-induced increase in [Ca
2+
]
cyt
due to upregulated CaSR is a novel pathogenic mechanism contributing to the augmented Ca
2+
influx and excessive PASMC proliferation in patients and animals with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Cardiac-Specific Deletion of Acetyl CoA Carboxylase 2 Prevents Metabolic Remodeling During Pressure-Overload Hypertrophy
Authors: Kolwicz Stephen C. , Olson David P. , Marney Luke C. , Garcia-Menendez Lorena , Synovec Robert E. , Tian Rong
Published: June 2012

Rationale:

Decreased fatty acid oxidation (FAO) with increased reliance on glucose are hallmarks of metabolic remodeling that occurs in pathological cardiac hypertrophy and is associated with decreased myocardial energetics and impaired cardiac function. To date, it has not been tested whether prevention of the metabolic switch that occurs during the development of cardiac hypertrophy has unequivocal benefits on cardiac function and energetics.

Objective:

Because malonyl CoA production via acetyl CoA carboxylase 2 (ACC2) inhibits the entry of long chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, we hypothesized that mice with a cardiac-specific deletion of ACC2 (ACC2H
−/−
) would maintain cardiac FAO and improve function and energetics during the development of pressure-overload hypertrophy.

Methods and Results:

ACC2 deletion led to a significant reduction in cardiac malonyl CoA levels. In isolated perfused heart experiments, left ventricular function and oxygen consumption were similar in ACC2H
−/−
mice despite an ≈60% increase in FAO compared with controls (CON). After 8 weeks of pressure overload via transverse aortic constriction (TAC), ACC2H
−/−
mice exhibited a substrate utilization profile similar to sham animals, whereas CON-TAC hearts had decreased FAO with increased glycolysis and anaplerosis. Myocardial energetics, assessed by
31
P nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and cardiac function were maintained in ACC2H
−/−
after 8 weeks of TAC. Furthermore, ACC2H
−/−
-TAC demonstrated an attenuation of cardiac hypertrophy with a significant reduction in fibrosis relative to CON-TAC.

Conclusions:

These data suggest that reversion to the fetal metabolic profile in chronic pathological hypertrophy is associated with impaired myocardial function and energetics and maintenance of the inherent cardiac metabolic profile and mitochondrial oxidative capacity is a viable therapeutic strategy.
Leptin Signaling in Adipose Tissue
Authors: Singh Prachi , Peterson Timothy E. , Sert-Kuniyoshi Fatima H. , Glenn Jason A. , Davison Diane E. , Romero-Corral Abel , Pusalavidyasagar Snigdha , Jensen Michael D. , Somers Virend K.
Published: June 2012

Rationale:

The link between obesity, hyperleptinemia, and development of cardiovascular disease is not completely understood. Increases in leptin have been shown to impair leptin signaling via caveolin-1–dependent mechanisms. However, the role of hyperleptinemia versus impaired leptin signaling in adipose tissue is not known.

Objective:

To determine the presence and significance of leptin-dependent increases in adipose tissue caveolin-1 expression in humans.

Methods and Results:

We designed a longitudinal study to investigate the effects of increases in leptin on adipose tissue caveolin-1 expression during weight gain in humans. Ten volunteers underwent 8 weeks of overfeeding, during which they gained an average weight of 4.1±1.4 kg, with leptin increases from 7±3.8 to 12±5.7 ng/mL. Weight gain also resulted in changes in adipose tissue caveolin-1 expression, which correlated with increases in leptin (rho=0.79,
P
=0.01). In cultured human white preadipocytes, leptin increased caveolin-1 expression, which in turn impaired leptin cellular signaling. Functionally, leptin decreased lipid accumulation in differentiating human white preadipocytes, which was prevented by caveolin-1 overexpression. Further, leptin decreased perilipin and fatty acid synthase expression, which play an important role in lipid storage and biogenesis.

Conclusions:

In healthy humans, increases in leptin, as seen with modest weight gain, may increase caveolin-1 expression in adipose tissue. Increased caveolin-1 expression in turn impairs leptin signaling and attenuates leptin-dependent lowering of intracellular lipid accumulation. Our study suggests a leptin-dependent feedback mechanism that may be essential to facilitate adipocyte lipid storage during weight gain.
Tricot stitched carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite laminates manufactured by resin transfer molding process: C-scan and flexural analysis
Authors: Shiino Marcos Yutaka , Cioffi Maria Odila Hilário , Voorwald Herman Cornelis Jacobus , Ortiz Edmundo Cabral
Published: June 2012

NC2® tricot stitched carbon preform has been tested to evaluate its potential application in aircraft structures. It is one in a range of stitched fabric group, specially developed by Hexcel Composites, designed to be processed with a RTM6 monocomponent resin. This article aims to evaluate the tricot stitched fabric behavior towards resin flow front in resin transfer molding process, its mechanical performance in bending test, and its structure during C-scan non-destructive inspection. Flexural performance of the laminates and the scatter of the results corresponded well with C-scan ultrasonic maps, where resin pockets near the stitches were distinguished. The fracture area visualization, via photography and scanning electron microscopy techniques, aided to find a few flaws between the stitch yarns, which conducted to a larger scatter of the flexural rupture strength results.
Measuring institutions
Authors: Gwenhamo Farayi , Fedderke Johannes W , de Kadt Raphael
Published: June 2012

This article presents a new dataset of indicators of political freedom, property rights and political instability for Zimbabwe for the period 1946 to 2005. The dataset is constructed by systematically coding the three concepts of political freedom, property rights and political instability along a multitude of dimensions. The lengthy time coverage of the dataset allows country-specific econometric analysis to evaluate generalizing propositions about the effects of political institutions on economic outcomes. The dataset also contributes to the dynamic analysis of the effects of political institutions on conflict, a contentious issue in political science. Correlations between the new measures reveal that while political instability has a strong and negative relationship with property rights, it has no significant relationship with political freedom. The finding supports the notion that political conflict is significantly higher in the in-between category of semi-democracy than at either end of the democracy scale. The validity of the dataset is supported by its strong correlations with other conceptually and operationally different measures of political institutions. The new dataset has begun to be employed in country-specific time-series studies of the link between institutions and economic outcomes. Two core results are that property rights influence the volumes of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Zimbabwe and that negative spillover effects of poor institutional environments can occur between neighbouring countries. It is feasible to extend the geographical coverage of the dataset by applying our methodological framework to other countries.
Theoretical analysis and simulation of pedestrian evacuation under invisible conditions
Authors: Guo Ren-Yong , Huang Hai-Jun
Published: June 2012

We study a class of pedestrian evacuation process in rooms without visibility by analytical and simulative methods. First, the moving distance of pedestrians for leaving the rooms is analyzed using the mean and variance theory. A microscopic pedestrian model is then extended to simulate pedestrian evacuation in the rooms. By numerical examples, the distributions of single individual’s evacuation efficiency in the rooms and the improvement by increasing the number of exits for the individual’s evacuation efficiency are demonstrated. Pedestrians’ moving distances obtained by analytical and simulative methods are also compared. The study is helpful for assessing the efficiency of evacuation and the safety of buildings under conditions of invisibility.
Learning Processes and Social Mobilization in a Swedish Metropolitan Hip-Hop Collective
Authors: Beach Dennis , Sernhede Ove
Published: June 2012

Based on ethnographic research on the encounter between local culture and schools in multicultural suburban areas, this article explores possibilities suggested by autonomous learning activities in a hip-hop collective that may have a potential to break urban segregation patterns. The collective’s artistic production raises questions that have not been answered in schools, such as how the increasing class divisions between different parts of the urban landscape should be understood and dealt with. Different types of learning are identified connected to the self, others, and careers. Implications for schooling are briefly discussed.
A Shifting Paradigm
Authors: Nadelson Louis S. , Boham Mikaela D. , Conlon-Khan Lori , Fuentealba Molly J. , Hall Cynthia J. , Hoetker Gregory A. , Hooley Diana S. , Jang Bong Seok , Luckey Kristina L. , Moneymaker Kelley J. , Shapiro Matthew A. , Zenkert A. J.
Published: June 2012

Effective teaching in multicultural settings requires the awareness and ability to adapt to diverse needs and viewpoints. Teachers’ multicultural efficacy may be gained from coursework or interactions within diverse communities. In this study the authors determined preservice teachers’ multicultural efficacy using the Multicultural Efficacy Scale (MES) and its relationship to education and personal characteristics. Study results revealed average levels of multicultural attitudes and efficacy and no relationship to coursework and personal characteristics. The authors did find a significant relationship to political worldviews. Results suggest that other variables may be making personal characteristics less influential on views of diversity.
Brothers, Sisters and Fictive Kin
Authors: Wallace Scyatta A. , Hooper Lisa M. , Persad Malini
Published: June 2012

Siblings have been shown to influence youth substance use and violent behavior. However, limited research has examined sibling-influences on sexual activity, particularly among urban Black youth. The current qualitative research was an exploratory study to describe discussions among siblings about sex and sexual health. Individual interviews were conducted with 15 Black youth (7 male, 8 female) from New York City ages 16 to 19 years. Participants were recruited from community agencies serving low income youth. Results indicated that youth had discussions about sex with their siblings. Discussions among siblings included information about sex, conversations about sexual activities and advice about sexual relationships. Some gender differences were observed. Males reported feeling pressure from their male siblings to be engaged in sexual activity. Female youth discussed hearing HIV/AIDS prevention messages from their siblings. Findings highlight the important role that siblings may play in socializing urban Black youth regarding sexuality, sexual health, and HIV/AIDS prevention.
The Old English Have-Perfect and Its Congeners
Authors: de Acosta Diego
Published: June 2012

The English have-perfect can be traced to Old English [ habban ‘have’ + noun + perfect participle]. A comparative look at the development of the have-perfect in Romance suggests a way to reassess the Old English corpus, which in turn reveals that the string [ habban + noun + perfect participle] had three distinct structures and values aside from the periphrastic perfect. The author shows that the likeliest source of the have-perfect is a periphrasis denoting the achievement of a result or a persisting resultant state. This implies that the relationship between possessive and auxiliary habban is less direct than previously claimed.
Kingston, Jamaica, and Charleston, South Carolina
Authors: Burnard Trevor , Hart Emma
Published: June 2012

Customarily, studies of urbanization in early British America have concentrated on its northern mainland seaports. This article moves beyond a thirteen colonies perspective to define and explore a Greater Caribbean urban world, with Charleston, South Carolina, at its most northerly point. In particular, the authors’ comparison of the internal dynamic of Charleston and Kingston, Jamaica, reveals an urban world that was no more dominated by the demands of the plantation sector than the northern seaports were beholden to their agricultural interiors. Significantly, however, these rich internal urban economies relied on, and were profoundly shaped by, the institution of slavery. In light of these findings, the authors thus characterize this Greater Caribbean urban zone as constituting one strand of urbanization in a larger British Atlantic world that experienced an overall expansion and diversification of the urban form across the early modern period. Most specifically, Charleston and Kingston achieved a growth rate and an economic complexity comparable to other English-speaking towns through their embrace of enslaved people and their labor.
Subjective Global Nutritional Assessment in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Vermilyea Sarah , Slicker Julie , El‐Chammas Khalil , Sultan Mutaz , Dasgupta Mahua , Hoffmann Raymond G. , Wakeham Martin , Goday Praveen S.
Published: June 2012

Background: Underweight children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) have a higher risk of mortality than normal‐weight children. The authors hypothesized that subjective global nutrition assessment (SGNA) could identify malnutrition in the PICU and predict nutrition‐associated morbidities. Methods: The authors prospectively evaluated the nutrition status of 150 children (aged 31 days to 5 years) admitted to the PICU with the use of SGNA and commonly used objective anthropometric and laboratory measurements. Each child was administered the SGNA by a dietitian while anthropometric measurements were performed by an independent assessor. To test interrater reproducibility, 76 children had SGNA performed by another dietitian. Occurrence of nutrition‐associated complications was documented for 30 days after admission. Results: SGNA ratings of well nourished, moderately malnourished, or severely malnourished demonstrated moderate to strong correlation with several standard anthropometric measurements (P < .05). The laboratory markers did not demonstrate any correlation with SGNA. Interrater agreement showed moderate reliability (κ = 0.671). Length of stay, pediatric logistic organ dysfunction, and Pediatric Risk of Mortality III were not significantly different across the groups and did not correlate with SGNA.
The Coproduction of “Sustainability”
Authors: Ozaki Ritsuko , Shaw Isabel , Dodgson Mark
Published: June 2012

Much of the debate on sustainability is predicated on the belief that environmental demands lead to the production of sustainable technologies that induce environmental benefits. This fails to account for the influential ways technologies are used in practice, and the interactions between users and technologies that shape their environmental effects. This article uses the example of how cars and their drivers together accomplish the practice of driving through their interactions with each other, and explores the implications this has for generating environmental outcomes. We draw on a body of literature that argues how together, users and technologies participate in carrying out practices that actively shape outcomes, and we show how and why this applies to sustainability. The article presents the case of the Toyota Prius, analyzing Toyota’s intent in designing a sustainable car and contrasting it with the perspectives of thirty-eight of its drivers. We find that the possibility for fuel and carbon reduction is coproduced and is a result of complex interactions between technology, drivers, and driving practice.
The evolution of scientific journal articles in the periphery: a case study and analysis of the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology from 1928 to 2008
Authors: Lin Hui , Luyt Brendan
Published: June 2012

In order to analyse the development of a scientific journal in the academic periphery, a case study of the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology (RBZ), published in Singapore 1928–2008, was conducted. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was deployed. Quantitatively, statistics on various aspects of journal articles in RBZ were collected and analysed. Qualitatively, schematic structures of journal articles in the RBZ were coded and documented via Swales’s move analysis. It was found that the development of the RBZ could be divided into three stages: a rudimentary period, transitional period and current period. Various factors that shaped the evolution of RBZ for the past 80 years are discussed, including the social and political context of Singapore, changes in scientific perspectives, the efforts of editors, information organization and retrieval, as well as changing scientific communities. It is argued that a longitudinal study of journal articles in the academic periphery enhances our understanding of: (1) the adaptive nature of knowledge production, organization, use and retrieval in various knowledge domains; (2) the importance of understanding the interplay between social factors in the scientific communication process; and (3) the increasing demand for the provision of efficient and effective information systems to meet the pressing need of information organization and retrieval.
Knowledge sharing practices of project teams when encountering changes in project scope: A contingency approach
Authors: Wang Wei-Tsong , Ko Nai-Yuan
Published: June 2012

Prior studies indicate that undesired consequences may occur if knowledge cannot be effectively shared among members of a project team. Nevertheless, there are few studies that explore the knowledge-sharing (KS) mechanisms used and the contingency factors affecting their application in the context of managing new product development projects that encounter changes in project scope. Therefore, in this research the principles of the contingency approach were adopted in order to examine the KS mechanisms used and the contingency factors affecting their use in this context via an in-depth case study. Three key KS mechanisms and three contingency factors affecting their application were identified based on the research results. The relationship between the KS mechanisms and the contingency factors is formalized in five propositions. Future research that examines the interrelationships among these contingency factors and how they collectively influence KS practices in similar contexts is encouraged.
Stigma Allure and White Antiracist Identity Management
Authors: Hughey Matthew W.
Published: June 2012

This article examines how “white antiracists” manage a perceived, and sometimes self-imposed, stigma. Given that whiteness and antiracism are often framed as antonyms, white engagement with matters commonly deemed “nonwhite issues” often involves a presentation of self that unsettles established habit and expected modes of interaction. Adding to the research on race and stigma, I demonstrate how privileged actors repeatedly construct a broken and stigmatized white and antiracist identity in which management of one recreates the stigmatization of the other. They not only accept a “spoiled” identity (whiteness-as-racist and antiracism-as-too-radical), but embrace stigma as markings of moral commitment and political authenticity. This dynamic—what I call stigma allure—illuminates how stigma, rather than a status to be shunned or entirely overcome, can become a desired component of identity formation that drives and orders human behavior toward utilitarian, symbolic, and self-creative goals.
‘Seeing the bigger picture’: Experiential learning, applied ethnomusicology and the use of gamelan music in adult literacy education
Authors: McIntosh Jonathan
Published: June 2012

Highlighting the application of ethnomusicology beyond the traditional boundaries of the academy, this article investigates the use of music in adult literacy education. In 2005, as part of the Literacy and Equality in Irish Society (LEIS) project, adult literacy tutors working in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom (UK), were invited to enrol in short, professional-development courses that required their participation in a Balinese gamelan ensemble – an orchestra comprised mainly of metallophones, drums and gongs. During each course, tutors were encouraged to reflect upon their learning processes to help them become more empathetic with some of the difficulties faced by adult literacy students. By focusing on the tutors’ experiences of learning gamelan music, this article provides insights into how participants used these development courses as a means to critically reflect upon issues of approach to teaching adult literacy education.
Developing learning identities in and through music: A case study of the outcomes of a music programme in an Australian juvenile detention centre
Authors: Barrett Margaret S. , Baker Jane S.
Published: June 2012

The last decades have witnessed significant growth in music programmes targeted at various populations in detention, including those in male and female prisons and juvenile detention centres. The aspirations of such programmes have included a concern to improve detainees’ mental and physical health and well-being, develop pro-social behaviours that assist in rehabilitation into the community and diminish the incidence of recidivism. In Australia there is an upward trend in the number of young people in detention. The population is overwhelmingly male, disproportionately indigenous, and largely aged between 15 and 17 years. The Australian Children’s Music Foundation (ACMF) has implemented a number of music programmes in juvenile detention centres as a means to assist young people to develop their sense of self-worth, build skills in self-discipline and communication, foster resilience, and re-engage with life and the community. This qualitative case study identifies and documents participants’ perceptions of the learning outcomes (musical and extra-musical) that emerge from participation in an ACMF music programme in one Australian juvenile detention centre and the learning and teaching practices and contextual factors that support these outcomes. Findings indicate that the programme generated significant musical and extra-musical learning outcomes for youth participants. Significantly, engagement in the programme provided a context through which participants developed a ‘learning identity’.
Patriotism, nationalism, and national identity in music education: ‘O Canada,’ how well do we know thee?
Authors: Kennedy Mary Copland , Guerrini Susan Carol
Published: June 2012

The purpose of the study was to determine Canadian secondary school choral students’ skill in singing the national anthem. The sample ( N = 275) consisted of students from 12 schools, representing six provinces in Canada. Students were audio taped singing ‘O Canada’ in English, French, or in a combination of both languages and subsequently completed a questionnaire. Results indicated that few students could sing the national anthem perfectly. Although students were significantly more accurate in remembering the lyrics than in singing the melody ( p < .0001), only 67% were judged proficient in lyrics whereas a mere 46% were judged proficient in melody. Possible reasons for these poor results include the frequency with which students sing the anthem in secondary schools, the fact that three-quarters named a classroom teacher in the early/elementary years as being the one responsible for teaching them the anthem, the shift to solo versus group singing in public events, and the inconsistency with which music education is delivered in elementary schools. Implications for practice indicate that more emphasis be placed on assisting choir members to sing the anthem accurately, more opportunities be provided in secondary schools for students to sing the anthem, and more curricular attention be placed on teaching students both English and French versions.
Time for “The Talk” . . . Now What? Autonomy Support and Structure in Mother-Daughter Conversations About Sex
Authors: Mauras Carrie P. , Grolnick Wendy S. , Friendly Rachel W.
Published: June 2012

This study explored how mothers communicated with their young adolescent daughters about the high-stakes topic of sex, as well as more everyday topics, from a Self-Determination Theory perspective. Mothers and their 11- to 14-year-old daughters (44 dyads) participated in two conversations and reported on their experiences. In the everyday conversation, maternal autonomy support was positively related to daughters’ experience, engagement, and desire for additional conversations. In the sex conversation, maternal structure was positively associated with daughters’ engagement, experience, and desire for additional conversations. Mothers were less autonomy supportive in conversations about sex, as compared to everyday topics. Maternal perceptions of threat were associated with less autonomy support in both conversations and worry during the conversation was negatively associated with autonomy support in the everyday conversation, and with structure in the sex conversation. Implications for intervention are discussed.
Can Sex Education Delay Early Sexual Debut?
Authors: Erkut Sumru , Grossman Jennifer M. , Frye Alice A. , Ceder Ineke , Charmaraman Linda , Tracy Allison J.
Published: June 2012

In this study, we examine whether a nine-lesson sex education intervention, “ Get Real: Comprehensive Sex Education That Works,” implemented in sixth grade, can reduce the number of adolescents who might otherwise become “early starters” of sexual activity (defined as heterosexual intercourse) by seventh grade. Participants were 548 boys and 675 girls who completed surveys in both sixth grade (baseline) and seventh grade (follow-up). The sample was 35% Latino, 32% Black, 24% White, 3% Asian, and 6% biracial. Students randomly assigned to the control condition were 30% more likely to initiate sex by follow-up when controlling for having had sex by sixth grade, demographic variables, and a tendency to give socially desirable responses. This finding is noteworthy because previous research has identified early starters to be prone to poor outcomes in sexual health, family formation, economic security, and incarceration and few middle school interventions have shown an effect on behavioral outcomes.
Compartment Pressure Curves Predict Surgical Outcome in Chronic Deep Posterior Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Winkes Michiel B. , Hoogeveen Adwin R. , Houterman Saskia , Giesberts Anouk , Wijn Pieter F. , Scheltinga Marc R.
Published: June 2012

Background:

Results of surgery for chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) of the lower leg deep posterior compartment are inferior compared with other types of CECS. Factors predicting success after surgery are unknown.

Purpose:

To study the prognostic value of preoperative compartmental pressure curves in patients receiving surgery for deep posterior compartment CECS.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Intracompartmental pressures (ICPs) of patients with deep posterior lower leg CECS were obtained at 4 time points (ie, before, immediately after, and 1 and 5 minutes after a standard exercise challenge test). Area under the 4-point pressure curve was calculated. Patients received a questionnaire investigating residual symptoms after surgery.

Results:

A complete data set was available for 52 patients (men, n = 23; age, 33 ± 14 years). They rated their 3-month postoperative clinical outcome as excellent (14%), good (38%), fair (35%), or poor (13%). Outcome at 3 months was related to the area under the preoperative 4-point pressure curve (excellent, 127 ± 28; good, 113 ± 25; fair, 100 ± 22; and poor, 88 ± 15; P = .005; odds ratio [OR], 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.08). At the long-term follow-up (39 ± 24 months), all 5 cardinal symptoms (pain, tight feeling, cramps, weakness, and diminished sensibility) were greatly attenuated ( P < .001) in the successfully operated group. Long-term success was 48%. Delay in diagnosis was related to poor outcome ( P = .04). Correlations between pressures/area under the 4-point pressure curve and long-term outcome were not significant, however.

Conclusion:

Preoperative measured intracompartmental pressures obtained in rest and after a standard exercise test may predict success of surgery for deep posterior compartment CECS of the lower limb. Further standardizing of preoperative pressure protocols may confirm that compartmental pressure analysis has diagnostic as well as predictive properties.
The Acute Effect of Running on Knee Articular Cartilage and Meniscus Magnetic Resonance Relaxation Times in Young Healthy Adults
Authors: Subburaj Karupppasamy , Kumar Deepak , Souza Richard B. , Alizai Hamza , Li Xiaojuan , Link Thomas M. , Majumdar Sharmila
Published: June 2012

Background:

Understanding the acute response of healthy knee cartilage to running may provide valuable insight into functional properties. In recent years, quantitative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging techniques (T1ρ and T2 relaxation measurement) have shown tremendous potential and unique ability to noninvasively and quantitatively determine cartilage response to physiologic levels of loading occurring with physiologic levels of exercise.

Purpose:

To measure the short-term changes in MR T1ρ and T2 relaxation times of knee articular cartilage and meniscus in healthy individuals immediately after 30 minutes of running.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Twenty young healthy volunteers, aged 22 to 35 years, underwent 3T MR imaging of the knee before and immediately after 30 minutes of running. Quantitative assessment of the cartilage and menisci was performed using MR images with a T1ρ and T2 mapping technique. After adjusting for age, sex, and body mass index, repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to determine the effects of running on MR relaxation times.

Results:

The post-run T1ρ and T2 measurement showed significant reduction in all regions of cartilage except the lateral tibia when compared with the pre-run condition. The medial tibiofemoral (T1ρ: 9.4%, P < .0001; T2: 5.4%, P = .0049) and patellofemoral (T1ρ: 12.5%, P < .0001; T2: 5.7%, P = .0007) compartments experienced the greatest reduction after running. The superficial layer of the articular cartilage showed significantly higher change in relaxation times than the deep layer (∆T1ρ: 9.6% vs 8.2%, P = .050; ∆T2: 6.0% vs 3.5%, P = .069). The anterior and posterior horns of the medial meniscus (9.7%, P = .016 and 11.4%, P = .001) were the only meniscal subregions with significant changes in T1ρ after running.

Conclusion:

Shorter T1ρ and T2 values after running suggest alteration in the water content and collagen fiber orientation of the articular cartilage. Greater changes in relaxation times of the medial compartment and patellofemoral joint cartilage indicate greater load sharing by these areas during running.
Meniscal and Chondral Injuries Associated With Pediatric Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears
Authors: Dumont Guillaume D. , Hogue Grant D. , Padalecki Jeffrey R. , Okoro Ngozi , Wilson Philip L.
Published: June 2012

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are commonly associated with meniscal and chondral injuries. Although lateral meniscal tears are commonly associated with acute ACL injuries, the chronically ACL-deficient knee is associated with an increased rate of medial meniscal injury. These associations have been described in the adult knee literature.

Purpose:

To evaluate the relationship of elapsed time from injury with the incidence of meniscal and chondral injuries noted at the time of surgical treatment for ACL tears in pediatric patients. The effect of age, gender, weight, and mechanism of injury was also evaluated.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of pediatric patients undergoing primary arthroscopic ACL reconstruction between January 2005 and January 2011 was performed. The presence of meniscal tear, chondral injury, number of days from injury to treatment, age, weight, gender, and mechanism of injury were recorded. The data were analyzed for associations between elapsed time before surgery as well as patient-specific factors with rates of meniscal and chondral injuries.

Results:

Three hundred seventy pediatric patients who underwent primary ACL reconstruction were included. Two hundred forty-one were treated ≤150 days (early) from injury, and 129 were treated >150 days (delayed) from injury. Ninety-one (37.8%) patients in the early treatment group and 69 (53.5%) patients in the delayed treatment group had medial meniscal tears (MMTs) ( P = .014; odds ratio [OR], 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12-2.83). Lateral meniscal tear (LMT) rates were similar (56.0% and 57.4%) in each group. Age >15 years also influenced the presence of MMTs ( P = .033; OR, 1.6; CI, 1.04-2.54). Increased patient weight was associated with an increased rate of MMTs and LMTs. Fifty-four of 170 (31.8%) patients weighing ≤65 kg and 106 of 200 (53%) weighing >65 kg had MMTs ( P < .001; OR, 2.2; CI, 1.36-3.42). Eighty-two of 170 (48.2%) patients weighing ≤65 kg and 127 of 200 (63.5%) weighing >65 kg had LMTs ( P < .018; OR, 1.7; CI, 1.10-2.68). The presence of chondral injury was significantly associated with the presence of meniscal tear in the same compartment of the knee.

Conclusion:

Pediatric patients treated >150 days after injury for ACL tears have a higher rate of MMT than those treated ≤150 days after injury. Increased age and weight are independently associated with a higher rate of MMT. Patients with ACL tears and an MMT or LMT are more likely to have a chondral injury in that particular compartment than those without meniscal tears.
The Medial Patellofemoral Ligament
Authors: Stephen Joanna M. , Lumpaopong Punyawang , Deehan David J. , Kader Deiary , Amis Andrew A.
Published: June 2012

Background:

Incompetence of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is an integral factor in patellofemoral instability. Reconstruction of this structure is gaining increasing popularity. However, the natural behavior of the ligament is still not fully understood, and crucially, the correct landmark for femoral attachment of the MPFL at surgery is poorly defined.

Purpose:

To determine the length change pattern of the native MPFL, investigate the effect of nonanatomic femoral and differing patellar attachment sites on length changes, and recommend a reproducible femoral attachment site for undertaking anatomic MPFL reconstruction.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Eight cadaveric knees were dissected of skin and subcutaneous fat and mounted in a kinematics rig with the quadriceps tensioned. The MPFL length change patterns were measured for combinations of patellar and femoral attachments using a suture and displacement transducer. Three attachments were along the superomedial border of the patella, and 5 femoral attachments were at the MPFL center and 5 mm proximal, distal, anterior, and posterior to this point. Reproducibility of attachment sites was validated radiographically.

Results:

The femoral attachment point, taking the anterior-posterior medial femoral condyle diameter to be 100%, was identified 40% from the posterior, 50% from the distal, and 60% from the anterior border of the medial femoral condyle. This point was most isometric, with a mean maximal length change to the central patellar attachment of 2.1 mm from 0° to 110° of knee flexion. The proximal femoral attachment resulted in up to 6.4 mm mean lengthening and the distal attachment up to 9.1 mm mean shortening through 0° to 110° of knee flexion, resulting in a significantly nonisometric graft ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

We report the anatomic femoral and patellar MPFL graft attachments, with confirmation of the reproducibility of their location and resulting kinematic behavior. Nonanatomic attachments caused significant loss of isometry.

Clinical Relevance:

The importance of an anatomically positioned MPFL reconstruction is highlighted, and an identifiable radiographic point for femoral tunnel position is suggested for use intraoperatively.
Augmentation of Tendon Healing With Butyric Acid–Impregnated Sutures
Authors: Leek Bryan T. , Tasto James P. , Tibor Lisa M. , Healey Robert M. , Freemont Anthony , Linn Michael S. , Chase Derek E. , Amiel David
Published: June 2012

Background:

Butyric acid (BA) has been shown to be angiogenic and to enhance transcriptional activity in tissue. These properties of BA have the potential to augment biological healing of a repaired tendon.

Purpose:

To evaluate this possibility both biomechanically and histologically in an animal tendon repair model.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A rabbit Achilles tendon healing model was used to evaluate the biomechanical strength and histological properties at 6 and 12 weeks after repair. Unilateral tendon defects were created in the middle bundle of the Achilles tendon of each rabbit, which were repaired equivalently with either Ultrabraid BA-impregnated sutures or control Ultrabraid sutures.

Results:

After 6 weeks, BA-impregnated suture repairs had a significantly increased ( P < .0001) Young’s modulus and ultimate tensile strength relative to the control suture repairs. At 12 weeks, no statistical difference was observed between these measures. The histological data at 6 weeks demonstrated significantly increased ( P < .005) vessel density within 0.25 mm of the repair suture in the BA-impregnated group. There was also an associated 42% increase in the local number of myofibroblasts in the BA samples relative to the controls at this time. By 12 weeks, these differences were not observed.

Conclusion:

Tendons repaired with BA-impregnated sutures demonstrated improved biomechanical properties at 6 weeks relative to control sutures, suggesting a neoangiogenic mechanism of enhanced healing through an increased myofibroblast presence.

Clinical Relevance:

These findings demonstrate that a relatively simple alteration of suture material may augment early tendon healing to create a stronger repair construct during this time.
The Effect of Agency Scandal on Public Views Toward the Correctional System
Authors: Mancini Christina , Mears Daniel P.
Published: June 2012

Evidence of a corrections agency scandal involving corruption can be expected to diminish public perceptions of agency effectiveness, especially in an era in which government accountability has featured prominently in national and state criminal justice policy discourse. However, relatively little scholarly attention has studied this idea. Using 2006 public opinion survey data collected prior to and after the highly publicized resignation of a corrections department director who was investigated for and subsequently convicted of graft and mismanagement, this study examines whether a prominent corrections agency scandal exerted an appreciable effect on how the public viewed the agency’s performance.  Study findings suggest that the scandal had no effect on the public’s perception of the department’s performance.  Implications of the study for research and policy are discussed.
The Emergence of Gender-Neutral Housing on American University Campuses
Authors: Willoughby Brian J. , Larsen Jeffrey K. , Carroll Jason S.
Published: June 2012

American college housing is beginning to introduce gender-neutral housing, or the housing of students in the same room regardless of gender. This study provides a descriptive overview of gender-neutral housing from 148 universities and documents central areas of debate in current policy discussions. Information regarding gender-neutral housing policies and practices at each of these campuses was collected. Results suggest that gender-neutral housing is currently an uncommon occurrence as a formalized housing option for most students. However, almost half of the schools sampled are currently engaging in formal or informal policy discussion regarding the addition of gender-neutral housing. Important future questions and priorities for both college administrators and scholars are suggested.
Urban African American Parents’ Messages About Violence
Authors: Johnson Sarah Lindstrom , Finigan Nadine , Bradshaw Catherine , Haynie Denise , Cheng Tina
Published: June 2012

Family socialization, which includes parental control and support, plays an important role in reducing the likelihood of adolescent involvement in conflict. This study examined the strategies that urban parents living in neighborhoods with high crime rates suggest to help their adolescent children avoid or deescalate conflict. Data came from 48 African American parent/adolescent dyads recruited through the youths’ middle school. Dyads responded to three video-taped scenarios depicting youth in potential conflict situations. Qualitative methods were used to identify 11 strategies parents suggested to help youth avoid or deescalate conflict. Although the majority of parents advocated for nonviolent solutions, these same parents described situations in which their child may need to use violence. These findings have important implications for family-focused violence prevention programs.
“Girls Don’t Propose! Ew.”
Authors: Robnett Rachael D. , Leaper Campbell
Published: June 2012

Thematic analysis was used to explore how emerging adults explained their preferences for two marriage traditions: marriage proposals and surname changes. Quantitative analyses were subsequently used to examine the association between benevolent sexism and participants’ marriage-tradition preferences. A sample of 277 undergraduates ( M = 19 years) completed a survey that included open- and closed-ended questions about attitudes toward marriage traditions and gender-role ideology. Results of the thematic analysis indicated that both women and men tended to hold traditional marriage preferences—especially with regards to marriage proposals. Multiple regression indicated that endorsing benevolent sexism was related to holding more traditional preferences. The findings are interpreted in relation to the role that hidden power may play in many heterosexual romantic relationships.