bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microscopic and Early-Stage Ovarian Cancers in BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers: Building a Model for Early BRCA-Associated Tumorigenesis
Authors: Yates Melinda S. , Meyer Larissa A. , Deavers Michael T. , Daniels Molly S. , Keeler Elizabeth R. , Mok Samuel C. , Gershenson David M. , Lu Karen H.
Published: January 2011

Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) is the cornerstone of ovarian cancer prevention in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers. Occult fallopian tube and ovarian cancers have been reported in a small percentage of BRCA1/2 mutation carriers undergoing RRSO. Here, we review our single-institution experience with RRSO in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers to characterize cases of microscopic cancers in these patients. At the time of RRSO, 7.9% of BRCA1 mutation carriers were diagnosed with microscopic fallopian tube or ovarian cancers and no cases were diagnosed in BRCA2 mutation carriers. The majority of the microscopic cancers include cases that were confined to the fallopian tubes, although there were also cases involving ovaries only or peritoneal washings only. This suggests that the site of origin may be in the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum for BRCA-associated serous cancers. However, an analysis of early-stage (stages I and II) ovarian and fallopian tube cancers diagnosed in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers confirms that the ovary is a preferred site for tumor growth with 11 of 14 early-stage cancers having a dominant ovarian mass. Overall, these data suggest that cancer initiation may occur in the ovary, fallopian tube, or peritoneum, but tumor growth and progression are favored in the ovary. We present an updated model for BRCA1/2 mutation–associated ovarian and fallopian tube carcinogenesis, which may aid in identifying improved prevention strategies for high-risk women who delay or decline RRSO. Cancer Prev Res; 4(3); 463–70. ©2011 AACR.
Effect of Timing of Chronic Preoperative Aspirin Discontinuation on Morbidity and Mortality in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Jacob Miriam , Smedira Nicholas , Blackstone Eugene , Williams Sarah , Cho Leslie
Published: February 2011

Background—

Aspirin (ASA) has been shown to reduce postoperative coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) mortality and ischemic events; however, the timing of chronic ASA discontinuation before surgery is controversial because of concern about postoperative bleeding. We evaluated the effect of the timing of ASA discontinuation before CABG on major adverse cardiovascular outcomes and postoperative bleeding using the Cleveland Clinic Cardiovascular Information Registry database.

Methods and Results—

At the Cleveland Clinic between January 1, 2002, and January 31, 2008, 4143 patients undergoing CABG were taking preoperative chronic ASA. Of these, 2298 discontinued ASA 6 or more days before surgery (early discontinuation), and 1845 took ASA within 5 days of the surgery (late use). Because of substantial differences between these 2 groups, propensity score analysis, and matching based on 31 variables were used for fair comparison of outcomes. This resulted in 1519 well-matched pairs of patients (73%). There was no significant difference between those with early discontinuation and late ASA use with regard to the composite outcome of in-hospital mortality, myocardial infarction, and stroke (1.7% versus 1.8%,
P
=0.80). Late use was associated with more intraoperative transfusions (23% versus 20%,
P
=0.03) and postoperative transfusions (30% versus 26%,
P
=0.009) but a similar number of reoperations for bleeding (3.4% versus 2.4%
P
=0.10).

Conclusions—

Among patients undergoing isolated CABG, late discontinuation of ASA resulted in no difference in postoperative cardiovascular outcomes; however, there was an increased transfusion requirement. Thus, we recommend weighing the risks and benefits of late ASA use in these patients.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Prevent Pressure Overload–Induced Cardiac Fibrosis Through Activation of Cyclic GMP/Protein Kinase G Signaling in Cardiac Fibroblasts
Authors: Chen Jinghai , Shearer Gregory C. , Chen Quanhai , Healy Chastity L. , Beyer April J. , Nareddy Vijaya B. , Gerdes A. Martin , Harris William S. , O'Connell Timothy D. , Wang Dajun
Published: February 2011

Background—

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) from fish oil ameliorate cardiovascular diseases. However, little is known about the effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on cardiac fibrosis, a major cause of diastolic dysfunction and heart failure. The present study assessed the effects of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on cardiac fibrosis.

Methods and Results—

We assessed left ventricular fibrosis and pathology in mice subjected to transverse aortic constriction after the consumption of a fish oil or a control diet. In control mice, 4 weeks of transverse aortic constriction induced significant cardiac dysfunction, cardiac fibrosis, and cardiac fibroblast activation (proliferation and transformation into myofibroblasts). Dietary supplementation with fish oil prevented transverse aortic constriction–induced cardiac dysfunction and cardiac fibrosis and blocked cardiac fibroblast activation. In heart tissue, transverse aortic constriction increased active transforming growth factor-β1 levels and phosphorylation of Smad2. In isolated adult mouse cardiac fibroblasts, transforming growth factor-β1 induced cardiac fibroblast transformation, proliferation, and collagen synthesis. Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid increased cyclic GMP levels and blocked cardiac fibroblast transformation, proliferation, and collagen synthesis. Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid blocked phospho-Smad2/3 nuclear translocation. DT3, a protein kinase G inhibitor, blocked the antifibrotic effects of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid increased phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase protein levels and nitric oxide production.

Conclusion—

Omega-3 fatty acids prevent cardiac fibrosis and cardiac dysfunction by blocking transforming growth factor-β1–induced phospho-Smad2/3 nuclear translocation through activation of the cyclic GMP/protein kinase G pathway in cardiac fibroblasts.
Oxidative Stress Causes Renal Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Upregulation, Na
+
/H
+
Exchanger 3 Overstimulation, and Hypertension
Authors: Banday Anees A. , Lokhandwala Mustafa F.
Published: February 2011

Oxidative stress modulates angiotensin (Ang) II type 1 receptor (AT
1
R) expression and function. Ang II activates renal Na
+
/H
+
exchanger 3 (NHE3) to increase sodium reabsorption, but the mechanisms are still elusive. In addition, the upregulation of AT
1
R during oxidative stress could promote sodium retention and lead to an increase in blood pressure. Herein, we investigated the mechanism of Ang II–mediated, AT
1
R-dependent renal NHE3 regulation and effect of oxidative stress on AT
1
R signaling and development of hypertension. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received tap water (control) or 30 mmol/L of
l
-buthionine-sulfoximine, an oxidant, with and without 1 mmol/L of Tempol, an antioxidant, for 3 weeks.
l
-Buthionine-sulfoximine–treated rats exhibited oxidative stress and high blood pressure. Incubation of renal proximal tubules with Ang II caused significantly higher NHE3 activation in
l
-buthionine-sulfoximine–treated rats compared with control. The activation of NHE3 was sensitive to AT
1
R blocker and inhibitors of phospholipase C, tyrosine kinase, janus kinase 2 (Jak2), Ca
2+
–dependent calmodulin (CaM), and Ca
2+
chelator. Also, incubation of proximal tubules with Ang II caused Jak2-dependent CaM phosphorylation, which led to Jak2-CaM complex formation and increased Jak2-CaM interaction with NHE3. The activation of these signaling molecules was exaggerated in
l
-buthionine-sulfoximine–treated rats, whereas Tempol normalized the AT
1
R signaling. In conclusion, Ang II activates renal proximal tubular NHE3 through novel pathways that involve phospholipase C and an increase in intracellular Ca
2+
, Jak2, and CaM. In addition, oxidative stress exaggerates Ang II signaling, which leads to overstimulation of renal NHE3 and contributes to an increase in blood pressure.
US Adolescent Nutrition, Exercise, and Screen Time Baseline Levels Prior to National Recommendations
Authors: Foltz Jennifer L. , Cook Stephen R. , Szilagyi Peter G. , Auinger Peggy , Stewart Patricia A. , Bucher Sophie , Dipl Dietitian , Baldwin Constance D.
Published: February 2011

Experts have recommended daily obesity prevention goals: ≥5 fruits/vegetables, <2 hours of screen time, >1 hour of physical activity, and no sugar-sweetened beverages (5-2-1-0). The authors analyzed National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data for 1999-2002 to determine the proportion of US adolescents (12-19 years) who would have met each goal prior to dissemination of the 5-2-1-0 recommendations. Merely 0.4% would have met all goals; 41% would have met none. Only 9% consumed ≥5 fruits/vegetables, 27% reported <2 hours of screen time, 32% had >1 hour of physical activity, and 14% consumed no sugar-sweetened beverages per day. Demographic subgroups (eg, racial/ethnic minority and lower income) would have been even farther from meeting the goals. Clinicians are likely to encounter adolescents with nutrition, exercise, and screen time behaviors that are far from 5-2-1-0 goals, and can use these guidelines during clinical encounters to counsel adolescents regarding healthier lifestyles.
Vancomycin Dosing in Obese Pediatric Patients
Authors: Moffett Brady S. , Kim Shelly , Edwards Morven S.
Published: February 2011

Background: Data are lacking to guide antimicrobial dosing for overweight children. The authors hypothesized that obese children would have increased vancomycin serum trough concentrations compared with nonobese children. Methods: A matched study design was employed to compare retrospectively vancomycin trough concentrations. Results: Among 24 matched pairs, obese patients received 14.1 ± 1.5 mg per kilogram and nonobese children 14.9 ± 0.9 mg per kilogram of vancomycin per kilogram of vancomycin ( P = .03). There was a trend toward higher vancomycin serum concentrations in obese (6.9 ± 4.30 μg/mL) versus nonobese children (4.8 ± 3.08 μg/mL; P = .052). Mean half-life in obese patients was 2.9 ± 0.29 hours and volume of distribution was 0.35 ± 0.15 L/kg. Conclusions: Since obesity did not alter vancomycin trough concentrations, overweight children should receive vancomycin based on actual body weight. However, since vancomycin troughs were substantially lower than those recommended for adults, further studies of vancomycin metabolism in children are needed.
Polytomous Adaptive Classification Testing
Authors: Gnambs Timo , Batinic Bernad
Published: January 2011

Computer-adaptive classification tests focus on classifying respondents in different proficiency groups (e.g., for pass/fail decisions). To date, adaptive classification testing has been dominated by research on dichotomous response formats and classifications in two groups. This article extends this line of research to polytomous classification tests for two- and three-group scenarios (e.g., inferior, mediocre, and superior proficiencies). Results of two simulation experiments with generated and real responses ( N = 2,000) to established personality scales of different length (12, 20, or 29 items) demonstrate that adaptive item presentations significantly reduce the number of items required to make such classification decisions while maintaining a consistent classification accuracy. Furthermore, the simulations highlight the importance of the selected test termination criterion, which has a significant impact on the average test length.
The Similarity of Bookmark Cut Scores With Different Response Probability Values
Authors: Wyse Adam E.
Published: January 2011

Standard setting is a method used to set cut scores on large-scale assessments. One of the most popular standard setting methods is the Bookmark method. In the Bookmark method, panelists are asked to envision a response probability (RP) criterion and move through a booklet of ordered items based on a RP criterion. This study investigates whether or not it is possible to end up with the same cut scores if one were to apply the Bookmark method with two different RP values. Analytical formulas and two hypothetical examples from a large-scale state testing program indicate that it is rarely possible to obtain the same cut score estimates with two different RP values because of the presence of item difficulty gaps present when applying the procedure in practice. Results indicate that if the same group of panelists applied the Bookmark procedure as it is traditionally explained, then cut scores should be lower with the second chosen RP value than they were with the first RP value. This result holds whether or not the second RP value is higher or lower than the first RP value. The examples also reveal that differences in cut score estimates with different RP values can lead to changes in the percentage of examinees at or above the cut scores that may have important practical impacts.
‘One mirror in another’: Managing diversity and the discourse of fashion
Authors: Prasad Anshuman , Prasad Pushkala , Mir Raza
Published: February 2011

In this article, we report on a multi-sited ethnographic study that investigates how the discourse of fashion influenced the design and implementation of workplace diversity management programs in six organizations. These organizations, from the Canadian petroleum and insurance industries, were manipulated by an institutional field of consultants and experts into adopting relatively superficial initiatives that lacked local relevance, and produced a high level of organizational cynicism regarding diversity. In our analysis, we particularly explore one adverse effect of this discourse of fashion; that it may trigger a form of meaningless imitation by organizations adopting diversity management initiatives, resulting in superficiality and organizational cynicism. At the same time, the discourse of fashion may also hold the key to enable meaningful change, for it has a powerful influence on organizational practitioners. Our article suggests that organizations need to be aware of the institutional field, and engage with it in a manner that imbues their initiatives with local relevance, for their initiatives to contribute to meaningful organizational change.
Social work and policy transfer: Reflections on introducing vocational qualifications in Vietnam
Authors: Stevens Irene , Taylor Raymond , Lan Nguyen Thi Thai
Published: February 2011

This paper compares contemporary developments in social work in Vietnam with the United Kingdom (UK). Three areas of comparison form the focus of the paper: the role of the paraprofessional, the potential of vocational education and the different expectations of social work in the 21st century.
Social work education in Canada, England and South Africa: A critical comparison of undergraduate programmes
Authors: Spolander Gary , Pullen-Sansfacon Annie , Brown Marion , Engelbrecht Lambert
Published: February 2011

Globalized labour mobility has led to questions regarding the degree to which social work education in one country can be applicable to practice in another. This paper examines social work education programmes and practice contexts in South Africa, England and Canada as examples through which to examine this question.
Microgenomics of Ameloblastoma
Authors: DeVilliers P. , Suggs C. , Simmons D. , Murrah V. , Wright J.T.
Published: February 2011

Gene expression profiles of human ameloblastoma microdissected cells were characterized with the purpose of identifying genes and their protein products that could be targeted as diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as for potential therapeutic interventions. Five formalin-fixed, decalcified, paraffin-embedded samples of ameloblastoma were subjected to laser capture microdissection, linear mRNA amplification, and hybridization to oligonucleotide human 41,000 RNA arrays and compared with universal human reference RNA, to determine the gene expression signature. Assessment of the data by Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM) and cluster analysis showed that 38 genes were highly expressed (two-fold increase) in all samples, while 41 genes were underexpressed (two-fold reduction). Elements of the sonic hedgehog pathway and Wingless type MMTV integration site family were validated by immunohistochemistry. We have identified the expression of multiple genes and protein products that could serve as potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets.
Racial/Ethnic Threat and Federal Sentencing
Authors: Feldmeyer Ben , Ulmer Jeffery T.
Published: February 2011

This study examines whether federal sentencing decisions are influenced by the racial/ethnic composition of federal court districts. Multilevel models of individual cases within federal judicial districts show that Black defendants receive moderately longer sentences than Whites, and that Hispanics and Whites receive similar sentences. These race/ethnicity effects on sentence length are found to vary across federal districts but not as predicted by racial threat theory. In contrast to racial threat predictions, Black sentence lengths are not significantly conditioned by the district Black population. Contrary to racial threat predictions, Hispanic defendants receive the harshest sentences when they account for the smallest share of the population (1 to 3 percent) and the most lenient sentences when they make up more sizable shares of district populations (more than 27 percent). Our results indicate that racial threat theory provides an inadequate explanation of how social contexts influence the federal sentencing of Blacks and Hispanics.
Let’s Make a Deal
Authors: Rosen Christopher C. , Slater Daniel J. , Chang Chu-Hsiang (Daisy) , Johnson Russell E.
Published: January 2011

Idiosyncratic deals (or i-deals) are mutually beneficial, personalized agreements of a nonstandard nature that are negotiated between individual employees and their employers. This article outlines the development of a 16-item measure of i-deals negotiated by job incumbents. Across four studies, the authors developed a reliable scale with a multidimensional factor structure that replicated across three separate samples. Study 1 was aimed at verifying that they had appropriately specified the domains across which i-deals are negotiated. In Study 2, the authors developed a measure of i-deals and confirmed its reliability and factor structure. Studies 3 and 4 provided further evidence for the psychometric properties of the i-deals measure and examined antecedents and outcomes of i-deals. Overall, the results indicate that employees negotiate i-deals across four content domains (i.e., schedule flexibility, location flexibility, task and work responsibilities, and financial incentives) and that i-deals have important implications for work attitudes.
Cardiovascular Disease and Obesity Prevention in Germany: An Investigation into a Heterogeneous Engineering Project
Authors: Niewöhner Jörg , Döring Martin , Kontopodis Michalis , Madarász Jeannette , Heintze Christoph
Published: January 2011

Cardiovascular diseases present the leading cause of death worldwide. Over the last decade, their preventio has become not only a central medical and public health issue but also a matter of political concern as well as a major market for pharma, nutrition, and exercise. A preventive assemblage has formed that integrates diverse kinds of knowledges, technologies, and actors, from molecular biology to social work, to foster a specific healthy lifestyle. In this article, the authors analyze this preventive assemblage as a heterogeneous engineer, that is, as an attempt to order complex everyday life into an architecture of modernism. This article draws on research conducted as part of the interdisciplinary research cluster ‘‘preventive self’’ (2006-2009) bringing together analyses from social anthropology, history, linguistics, sociology of knowledge, and medicine. The authors report here primarily from ethnographic investigations into biomedical research, primary care, and educational practices in kindergartens. The authors conclude that the preventive assemblage largely fails to install any kind of singular order. Instead, it is translated into existing orderings producing heterogeneity of a different nuance.
Assessment of Air Quality During Mastoidectomy
Authors: Norris Byron K. , Goodier Aimee P. , Eby Thomas L.
Published: January 2011

Objectives

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) outlines specific requirements governing the use of respiratory protection for workers dealing with dust or other aerosolized compounds. Health care workers may be exposed to bone dust produced during otologic procedures, creating an occupational hazard. The purpose of this research was to quantify the total suspended particulate matter (TSPM) and respirable particulate matter (PM5) created during cortical mastoidectomy and investigate whether the concentration of aerosolized dust during mastoidectomy would require the use of a particulate respirator.

Study Design

Cadaveric study to assess air quality during cortical mastoidectomy.

Setting

Temporal bone laboratory.

Methods

A simple mastoidectomy was performed on 3 cadaveric temporal bones. Suspended particulate concentration was measured using gravimetric filter methodology for TSPM and PM5. Concentration of particulate exposure was compared between mannequins positioned near the surgical field with a standard surgical mask, surgical respirator, or controls.

Results

The average total particulate matter concentration during cortical mastoidectomy was 1.89 mg/m3. The average quantity of respirable particles was below detection levels. The calculated particulate exposure concentrations for TSPM and PM5 did not exceed OSHA’s requirement for respirator use. The particulate respirator prevented exposure to bone particulates compared with controls (P =. 028).

Conclusion

The concentration of bone dust produced during cortical mastoidectomy is below regulatory guidelines for use of particulate respirators. However, experimental studies show the use of a surgical respirator may decrease particulate exposure.
Joint hypermobility syndrome: A common clinical disorder associated with migraine in women
Authors: Bendik Elise M , Tinkle Brad T , Al-shuik Enas , Levin Linda , Martin Andrew , Thaler Robert , Atzinger Carrie L , Rueger Jodie , Martin Vincent T
Published: January 2011

Preliminary studies suggested that headache disorders are more common in patients with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS). The objectives of this study were to determine if the prevalence, frequency, and disability of migraine differ between female patients with JHS and a control population. Twenty-eight patients with JHS and 232 controls participated in the case-cohort study. Participants underwent a structured verbal interview and were assigned a diagnosis of migraine based on criteria of the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd Edition. The primary outcome measures were the prevalence, frequency, and headache-related disability of migraine. Logistic regression was used for the prevalence analysis and Poisson regression for the frequency and disability analyses. Results indicated that the prevalence of migraine was 75% in JHS patients and 43% in controls. The adjusted odds ratio for the prevalence of migraine was 3.19 (95% CI 1.24, 8.21] in JHS patients. The rate ratios for migraine frequency and headache-related disability were 1.67 (95% CI 1.01, 2.76) and 2.99 (95% CI 1.66, 5.38), respectively, for JHS patients. Our study suggests that JHS is a clinical disorder strongly associated with an increased prevalence, frequency, and disability of migraine in females.
Readiness for Technology Use With People With Dementia
Authors: Rosenberg Lena , Kottorp Anders , Nygård Louise
Published: January 2011

Technology is believed to have a potential for supporting significant others of people with dementia but little is known of their experiences and views of technology. The aim of this study is to explore how significant others relate to technology and to their relatives with dementia as technology users. The focus is on both their own use of technology as significant others and the use of technology by their relatives with dementia. Individual interviews and focus group discussions were undertaken and analyzed using a grounded theory approach. The significant others showed an overall readiness toward using technology in their present roles. Technology use in daily activities was perceived to be an important means to keeping retained abilities exercised but could also be perceived as a possible threat to health if activities were oversimplified. The significant others asked for flexible technology not perceived as stigmatizing, to be integrated into existing habits.
Educational Stress Scale for Adolescents
Authors: Sun Jiandong , Dunne Michael P. , Hou Xiang-yu , Xu Ai-qiang
Published: February 2011

This article describes the development and initial validation of a new instrument to measure academic stress—the Educational Stress Scale for Adolescents (ESSA). A series of cross-sectional questionnaire surveys were conducted with more than 2,000 Chinese adolescents to examine the psychometric properties. The final 16-item ESSA contains five latent variables: Pressure from study, Workload, Worry about grades, Self-expectation, and Despondency, which together explain 64% of the total item variance. Scale scores showed adequate internal consistency, 2-week test–retest reliability, and satisfactory concurrent validity. A confirmatory factor analysis suggested the proposed factor model fits well in a different sample. For researchers who have a particular interest in academic stress among adolescents, the ESSA promises to be a useful tool.
The Forum
Authors: Babrauskas Vytenis , Jones J.C.
Published: February 2011

The Forum is intended to provide for dialogue and discussion among fire experts, scientists and consultants. Contributions to The Forum will not be refereed in the conventional sense, but will be subject to review by the Editor or a member of the Journal’s Editorial Board relative to appropriateness, clarity, timeliness, and scope of interest. The Editor will be the sole judge of those contributions to be published. Opinions expressed, however, are those of the authors and not of the Editor or Sage Publications, Ltd.
Resolution of Headache and Papilledema in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Associated With Inhibition of Na+-K+-2Cl- Cotransport
Authors: Kahle Kristopher T. , Walcott Brian P. , Staley Kevin J.
Published: February 2011

Medical treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension is often ineffective. Cerebrospinal fluid diversion or optic nerve sheath fenestration is employed when medical therapy fails. Here, we describe a case of a 13-year-old girl with idiopathic intracranial hypertension refractory to long-term trials of acetazolamide and furosemide at maximally tolerated doses. After declining surgical intervention despite progression of her visual symptoms, a trial of bumetanide (0.25 mg daily) monotherapy was successful in resolution of the patient’s symptoms. These results suggest bumetanide could be effective in the treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension, perhaps by restoring the balance between cerebrospinal fluid formation and absorption and/or by altering the volume or ionic composition of the brain’s extracellular fluid compartment.
ACASI and Face-to-Face Interviews Yield Inconsistent Estimates of Domestic Violence Among Women in India: The Samata Health Study 2005-2009
Authors: Rathod Sujit D. , Minnis Alexandra M. , Subbiah Kalyani , Krishnan Suneeta
Published: February 2011

Background. Audio computer-assisted self-interviews (ACASI) are increasingly used in health research to improve the accuracy of data on sensitive behaviors. However, evidence is limited on its use among low-income populations in countries like India and for measurement of sensitive issues such as domestic violence. Method. We compared reports of domestic violence and three less sensitive behaviors related to household decision making and spousal communication in ACASI and face-to-face interviews (FTFI) among 464 young married women enrolled in a longitudinal study of gender-based power and adverse health outcomes in low-income communities in Bangalore, India. We used a test-retest design. At the 12-month study visit, we elicited responses from each participant through FTFI first, followed by ACASI. At the 24-month visit, we reversed the order, implementing ACASI first, followed by FTFI. Univariable log-linear regression models and kappa statistics were used to examine ACASI’s effects on self-reports. Results. Regression results showed significantly lower reporting in ACASI relative to FTFI at both visits, including for domestic violence (12-month risk ratio [RR] = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.52, 0.73; 24-month RR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.62, 0.89). Response agreement between interview modes, calculated by kappa scores, was universally low, though highest for domestic violence (12-month κ = 0.45; 24-month κ = 0.48). Older age and greater educational attainment appeared associated with higher response agreement. Conclusions. Greater reporting in FTFI may be due to social desirability bias for the less sensitive questions and perceptions of therapeutic benefit for domestic violence. These results cast doubt on the appropriateness of using ACASI for measurement of sensitive behaviors in India.
Is Childhood Physical Abuse Associated With Peptic Ulcer Disease? Findings From a Population-based Study
Authors: Fuller-Thomson Esme , Bottoms Jennifer , Brennenstuhl Sarah , Hurd Marion
Published: February 2011

This study investigated childhood physical abuse and ulcers in a regionally representative community sample. Age, race and sex were controlled for in addition to five clusters of potentially confounding factors: adverse childhood conditions, adult socioeconomic status, current health behaviors, current stress and marital status, and history of mood/anxiety disorders. Childhood physical abuse is associated with many negative physical and psychological adult health outcomes. Two recent studies demonstrate a potential link between childhood physical abuse and peptic ulcer disease in adulthood. The authors use regional data for the Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan from the 2005 Canadian Community Health Survey. Of the 13,069 respondents with complete data on abuse and ulcers, 7.3% ( n = 1,020) report that they had been physically abused as a child by someone close to them and 3.0% ( n = 493) report that they had been diagnosed with peptic ulcers by a health professional. The regional response rate is approximately 84%. Findings show that those reporting abuse had more than twice the prevalence of ulcers than did those not reporting abuse (6.6% vs. 2.7%). The fully adjusted odd ratio of peptic ulcers among those who had reported childhood physical abuse is 1.68 (95% CI = 1.22, 2.32). A significant and stable relationship between childhood physical abuse and peptic ulcers is found, even when taking into account five clusters of potentially confounding factors. Prospective studies that apply the biopsychosocial model are likely to be the most effective for identifying the pathways that connect childhood physical abuse and ulcer disease.
Television and Demographic Diversity: A Case Study of Public Participation in Televised Debate Programmes during the 2007 French Presidential Election
Authors: Perry Sheila , Allison Maggie
Published: February 2011

In the context of a crisis in institutionalised politics, media treatment of the 2007 French presidential election saw the débat participatif become a key feature of the campaign. This article explores the range of representations of le peupk souverain as provided in 33.25 hours of television programming on one private and three public-sector channels from January to March 2007. Beginning with symbolic representations through set design and the selection and presentation of the public, it goes on to investigate to what extent public participants mirror the diversity of French society in terms of geographic distribution, gender, ethnic diversity, professional activity, age, marital status and parenthood. The article concludes that pre-existing discrepancies in geographic distribution are exaggerated, whereas, for other socio-cultural variables, numerically smaller groups are over-represented. This includes politically salient groups such as farmers and ethnic minorities but not, interestingly, women, who continue to be in a minority as active participants.
The meaning of vulnerability to nurses caring for older people
Authors: Stenbock-Hult Bettina , Sarvimäki Anneli
Published: February 2011

Research concerning work on caring for older people shows that care providers experience a variety of consuming emotions and stress. They can be said to be in a vulnerable position. It is not known, however, how the care providers themselves understand vulnerability. The aim of this study was to illuminate the meaning of vulnerability to care providers caring for older people. A qualitative interpretive approach was adopted. Data were collected through tape-recorded interviews with 16 female registered and practical nurses who were experienced in caring for older people. Qualitative analysis resulted in one core theme and six themes with subthemes. The core theme showed that, for the participating nurses, vulnerability essentially meant being human. The meanings of being human were illustrated by the six themes: having feelings; experiencing moral indignation; being harmed; having courage; protecting oneself; and maturing and developing. Analysis showed that vulnerability was a resource as well as a burden.
Relational and embodied knowing: Nursing ethics within the interprofessional team
Authors: Wright David , Brajtman Susan
Published: February 2011

In this article we attempt to situate nursing within the interprofessional care team with respect to processes of ethical practice and ethical decision making. After briefly reviewing the concept of interprofessionalism, the idea of a nursing ethic as ‘unique’ within the context of an interprofessional team will be explored. We suggest that nursing’s distinct perspective on the moral matters of health care stem not from any privileged vantage point but rather from knowledge developed through the daily activities of nursing practice. Because of their position vis-à-vis patients and families in everyday clinical care, nurses cultivate ethical knowledge of at least two forms: (1) relational knowledge; and (2) embodied knowledge. Through the integration of these forms of knowledge, nurses develop a unique moral perspective and can make a meaningful contribution to the realm of ethics in interprofessional care.
A Life of Quality: Informing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities
Authors: Karr Valerie L.
Published: January 2011

Quality of life is a multidimensional construct requiring self-determination and advocacy skills, employment, and recognition of basic human rights and fundamental freedoms for improvements to be made. In this study, the constructs of quality of life and self-determination were applied to the rights-based framework guaranteed by the recent United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (UNCRPD) to inform monitoring and implementation efforts. Persons with disabilities interested in advocacy from Nepal, Zambia, and the United States were surveyed. Significant country differences were found in ratings of quality of life, self-determination, and personal human rights, but similar low ratings in country support of human rights were found. Through the coordinated improvement of significant factors, this study supports quality of life as a useful measure for informing UNCRPD. Future research should focus on the applicability of quality of life to monitoring UNCRPD and policy and program development.
Numerical Modeling of Fatigue Crack Growth in Single Crystals Based on Microdamage Theory
Authors: Aslan Ozgur , Quilici Stéphane , Forest Samuel
Published: January 2011

Proper life-time prediction modeling of single crystalline components is of increasing importance due to their common use in turbine industry. Viscoplastic damage approaches are of great interest in that context. However, mechanical properties of single crystals are strongly anisotropic and nonlinear in service conditions, bringing certain complexity into constitutive and numerical modeling. The aim of this work is to develop a thermodynamically consistent constitutive model based on generalized continua in order to simulate fatigue crack initiation and growth in single crystals. For that purpose, a standard crystal plasticity model is taken as a basis and coupled with the continuous damage model developed by Marchal et al. (2006a) [Marchal, N., Forest, S., Remy, L. and Duvinage, S. (2006a). Simulation of Fatigue Crack Growth in Single Crystal Superalloys Using Local Approach to Fracture, In: Moinereau, D., Steglich, D. and Besson, J. (eds.), Local Approach to Fracture, 9th European Mechanics of Materials Conference, Euromech-Mechamat, Moret-Sur-Loing, France, Presses de l’Ecole des mines de Paris, pp. 353-358]. As a variant of micromorphic theory, microdamage approach is applied to the model in order to obtain a regularized continuum damage formulation which solves mesh dependency problem by introducing an intrinsic length scale. A detailed finite element implementation procedure and its validation for monotonic crack growth are-shown. Fatigue crack growth analyses have been performed on a single edge notched geometry and a comparison between numerical and experimental results is presented.
Effective Elastic Moduli of Spherical Particle Reinforced Composites Containing Imperfect Interfaces
Authors: Yanase K. , Ju J. W.
Published: January 2011

The effective elastic moduli of composite materials are investigated in the presence of imperfect interfaces between the inclusions and the matrix. The primary focus is on the spherical particle reinforced composites. By admitting the displacement jumps at the particle–matrix interface, the modified Eshelby inclusion problem is studied anew. To derive the modified Eshelby tensor, three approximate methods are presented and compared by emphasizing the existence of a unique solution and computational efficiency. Subsequently, the effective elastic stiffness tensor of the composite is formulated based on the proposed micromechanical framework and homogenization. Specifically, by incorporating imperfect interface, the modified versions of the Mori–Tanaka method, the self-consistent method, and the differential scheme are presented. By comparing these three methods, the effects of interfacial sliding and separation on the degradation (damage) of the effective elastic moduli of composites are analyzed and assessed. Finally, a critical aspect of the presented formulations is specifically addressed.
The Effects of Seawater Immersion on the Bearing Strength of Woven-Glass–Epoxy Prepreg Pin-Loaded Joints
Authors: Öndürücü AyŞe
Published: January 2011

This study considers the bearing strengths and failure modes of woven-glass–epoxy prepreg composite mechanically fastened joints. For the study, the specimens were immersed in natural seawater in the laboratory for over 1 year. The edge distance-to-hole diameter ( E/ D) ratio and the specimen width-to-hole-diameter ratio ( W/ D) were systematically altered during experiments. Failure modes were determined by observing the failure regions on the specimens. Damage progression in pin-loaded specimens prepared from woven-glass–epoxy prepreg was also examined using a scanning electron microscopy for three different percentages of ultimate failure load. According to the experimental investigation results, it was observed that the bearing load values obtained from the specimens immersed in seawater decreased considerably in comparison to unimmersed specimens.
Damages and Failure Features of Liquid Rubber-based Concrete in Statics Tension by 2D Dynamics Numerical Simulation
Authors: Ai Shigang , Tang Liqun , Liu Zejia , Zhang Chunyu , Liu Yiping
Published: January 2011

The liquid rubber-based concrete is a new kind of concrete-like composite in which the matrix is the liquid rubber substituting the conventional cement mortar; the aggregate is also a stone with irregular shape and geometry. Such a new concrete not only has heterogeneous mesostructure, but also is a composite with two basic materials with significantly different mechanical properties. The damage and failure features under loading are keys for the further improvement of mechanical properties of the new material. In this article, the new concrete is modeled as a three-phase composite consisting of aggregate, liquid rubber matrix, and interface between the aggregate and the liquid rubber matrix. The interface is regarded as an independent material with given geometry and mechanical properties. The new material’s tensile properties were simulated dynamically in a condition of uniform displacement load on the tensile boundary and a deactivating element technique was used to deal with the failed elements. Special attention was paid to the influence of the loading rates and the properties (thickness, strength, failure strain) of the interfacial ‘material.’ Finally, the tensile properties of the new concrete were simulated successfully; the deformation and failure of the mesostructure of the new concrete were observed. The approaches will give some highlights to the optimization methods of the new concrete. Also, the numerical techniques for modeling, such kind of materials with strong heterogeneous mesostructure were recommended.
Sexually Active Adolescent Women
Authors: Saftner Melissa Ann , Martyn Kristy Kiel , Lori Jody Rae
Published: January 2011

The purpose of this qualitative study is to explore family and peer relationships (including support and influence on risk behavior) among sexually active European American and African American adolescent girls in the context of risk behaviors documented on retrospective event history calendars (EHCs) and in interviews. The EHCs were completed by the adolescents prior to a clinic visit with a nurse practitioner at a school-based clinic in Southeast Michigan, and interviews were conducted after the visit. Constant comparative analysis of EHCs and interview data of 19 sexually active 15 to 19-year-old girls revealed that those with positive familial and peer support were less likely to report risk behaviors compared to those with poor family and peer relationships. School nurses and other providers working with adolescents to prevent risk behaviors could utilize the EHC to determine risks and develop education plans and interventions to reduce risk behaviors.
Delegation of Glucagon® in the School Setting
Authors: Wilt Lori , Foley Marie
Published: January 2011

Delegation of nursing procedures and medication in school is fraught with legal and ethical concerns for the school nurse. Because nurses may be responsible for coordinating care for several school buildings, delegation of nursing care and medication administration has occurred out of necessity. Nurse Practice Acts in some states, but not all, allow for delegation of medication to unlicensed assistive personnel. This article explores Glucagon® delegation laws in the United States and presents an argument against such delegation in states where Nurse Practice Acts do not allow for delegation of medication to unlicensed assistive personnel.
How Persons With Chronic Hepatitis C in Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Programs Think About Depression and Interferon Therapy
Authors: Rosedale Mary T. , Strauss Shiela M.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE: This secondary analysis of existing qualitative descriptive data is the first to specifically report on how persons undergoing residential treatment for substance abuse think about depression and the risks of neuropsychiatric side effects associated with interferon (IFN) treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. METHOD: Krippendorff ’s method for qualitative content analysis was used to describe patient perspectives about psychiatric symptoms and potential side effects of IFN treatment. Transcripts from face-to-face, semistructured interviews with 20 patients in 3 residential substance abuse treatment programs were analyzed. RESULTS: Themes included patients’ powerlessness and their evaluation of risk and confidence. Participants commented that residential substance abuse treatment programs offered a unique opportunity to undergo antiviral treatment because they capitalized on a patient’s heightened readiness for change. Barriers to treatment included perceived obstacles, such as compulsory waiting periods before treatment initiation, fear that neuropsychiatric treatment side effects would sabotage addiction recovery, and concern that psychiatric providers lacked sufficient HCV knowledge. However, when patients perceived clinicians as knowledgeable and genuinely caring, they were amenable to considering antiviral treatment. CONCLUSION: Increasing HCV-specific psychiatric education and staff training, exploring combined psychiatric and antiviral treatment combinations, and therapeutically supporting patient decision making are needed to better use substance abuse residential treatment programs as sites for treating HCV infection. Novel antidepressant treatment approaches are required in this population. Advanced practice psychiatric nurses are well-positioned to develop new integrative models of care addressing the medical, psychiatric, and substance abuse comorbidities in this highly vulnerable group.
Repair Strategies Used by Verbal Students With Autism During Free Play
Authors: Ohtake Yoshihisa , Wehmeyer Michael L. , Nakaya Akitaka , Takahashi Shoji , Yanagihara Masafumi
Published: January 2011

This study assessed the repair strategies used by verbal students with autism (N = 12) when faced with verbal requests for clarification, gestural requests, not attending and not responding, and wrong responses. Data were collected in request contexts contrived by the communication partner during free play. The results indicated that most of the students repaired more than 80% of the communication breakdowns. In addition, they tended to choose communication forms that reflected the social meaning of the breakdown. However, they were likely to rely on unconventional forms when they faced wrong response breakdowns.
Salud America! Developing a National Latino Childhood Obesity Research Agenda
Authors: Ramirez Amelie G. , Chalela Patricia , Gallion Kipling J. , Green Lawrence W. , Ottoson Judith
Published: January 2011

U.S. childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions, with one third of children overweight or obese. Latino children have some of the highest obesity rates, a concern because they are part of the youngest and fastest-growing U.S. minority group. Unfortunately, scarce research data on Latinos hinders the development and implementation of evidence-based, culturally appropriate childhood obesity interventions. In response, the Salud America! network conducted a national Delphi survey among researchers and stakeholders to identify research priorities to address Latino childhood obesity and compare differences by occupation and race or ethnicity. The resulting first-ever National Latino Childhood Obesity Research Agenda provides a framework to stimulate research and collaboration among investigators, providers, and communities, and inform policy makers about the epidemic’s seriousness and specific needs for priority funding. The agenda ranks family as the main ecological level to prevent Latino childhood obesity—followed by community, school, society, and individual—and ranks top research priorities in each level.