bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations Among Marital Qualities, Supportive and Undermining Coparenting, and Parenting Self-Efficacy
Authors: Merrifield Kami A. , Gamble Wendy C.
Published: May 2012

This study examined associations among marital quality, coparenting, and parenting self-efficacy in parents of young children. Of special interest were possible spillover and stress-buffering effects of the marital and coparenting relationships. The authors sampled 175 married and cohabiting couples. Participants were recruited via an online marketing company and completed surveys on the project’s website. Maintenance strategies were associated with higher parenting self-efficacy for mothers and fathers, and for mothers, their spouse’s reports of his own maintenance behaviors were associated with increased parenting self-efficacy. Undermining coparenting predicted lower parenting self-efficacy for mothers and fathers. There was support for the spillover and stress-buffering hypotheses as evidenced by significant interactions between marital qualities and coparenting predicting to parenting self-efficacy. Findings support a connection between marital and coparenting subsystems; whereby, positivity in one of these relationships can interact to buffer the effects of negativity in the other to maintain or increase parenting self-efficacy.
An Assessment of the Ocular Safety of Excipient Maleic Acid Following Intravitreal Injection in Rabbits
Authors: Aguirre Shirley A. , Collette Walter , Gukasyan Hovhannes J. , Huang Wenhu
Published: May 2012

Maleic acid was formulated in 0.7% saline and injected intravitreally in rabbits in order to evaluate ocular safety and tolerability. Maleic acid was formulated within a narrow pH range (2–3), administered in a fixed volume (100 µl), and concentrations ranged from 0.00 to 2.00 mg/eye (0.00 to 12.30 mM vitreous). Ocular evaluations were conducted at 2, 4, and 8 days post injection. Ocular irritation responses were observed at doses from 0.50 mg/eye (3.07 mM vitreous) to 2.00 mg/eye (12.30 mM vitreous) and included conjunctival redness and scleral swelling. Chemosis was observed at 2.00 mg/eye (12.30 mM vitreous). Funduscopic evaluations revealed enlarged retinal blood vessels and optic disk swelling at doses ≥1.50 mg/eye (9.22 mM vitreous), retinal folds and retinal discoloration at 2.00 mg/eye (12.30 mM vitreous). Histopathologic evaluations on days 4 and 8 post injection revealed retinal degeneration at doses ≥1.0 mg/eye (6.15 mM vitreous), conjunctival inflammation at doses ≥1.5 mg/eye (9.22 mM vitreous), and retinal pigment epithelial hypertrophy, optic nerve demyelination, anterior chamber fluid, and conjunctival fibrosis at 2.00 mg/eye (12.30 mM vitreous) maleic acid. The data suggest that maleic acid formulations at ≥1.00 mg/eye (6.15 mM vitreous) were not suitable for intraocular indications.
A Spontaneous Ganglioneuroma in the Adrenal Medulla of a Young Wistar Hannover Rat
Authors: Shirai Makoto , Kai Kiyonori , Makino Toshihiko , Maejima Takanori , Kumagai Kazuyoshi , Tanimoto Tomoe , Teranishi Munehiro , Sanbuissho Atsushi
Published: May 2012

A nodule was observed in the adrenal medulla of a twenty-week-old male Wistar Hannover rat. The nodule was predominantly (over 80%) composed of neural components, with ganglion cells scattered in sparse supporting tissue containing nerve fibers and Schwann cells. In the peripheral area of the tumor, atypical chromaffin cells were also observed. Accumulation of eosinophilic serous fluid was also noted in the stromal tissue. There were neither mitotic figures in the ganglion cells nor necrotic foci. In immunohistochemistry, the ganglion cells were positive for neuronal nuclei (NeuN), and negative for proliferating cell nuclear antigen, S-100, and chromogranin A. There were some NeuN-positive small cells in the peripheral area of the tumor. These findings indicate that this tumor was a ganglioneuroma. This seems to be an extremely rare case, as the spontaneous occurrence of ganglioneuroma in rats is very low, even in two-year carcinogenicity studies.
Long-Term Parenteral Administration of 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin Causes Bone Loss
Authors: Kantner Ingrid , Erben Reinhold G.
Published: May 2012

Cyclodextrins are oligosaccharides which are used in the pharmaceutical industry and research as vehicles for application of apolar substances such as steroids. The aim of this study was to examine the long-term effects of parenteral administration of 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) on bone. Sham-operated (SHAM) or ovariectomized (OVX) adult rats were subcutaneously injected with physiological saline, 50, or 200 mg/kg HP-β-CD daily. After 4 months, body weight in OVX rats and uterine weight in SHAM rats were significantly lower after administration of 200 mg/kg HP-β-CD, relative to vehicle controls. At 200 mg/kg, HP-β-CD was hepatotoxic as measured by increased serum transaminases, and reduced serum albumin. Moreover, 200 mg/kg HP-β-CD led to decreased vertebral and tibial bone mineral density (BMD), and to cortical thinning at the tibial shaft. Bone loss in HP-β-CD-treated rats was associated with increased bone resorption as measured by increased renal deoxypyridinoline excretion. Although 50 mg/kg HP-β-CD was devoid of overt signs of organ toxicity and did not impair BMD, bone resorption was already increased. In summary, subcutaneous long-term administration of HP-β-CD at a daily dose of 200 mg/kg led to increased bone resorption and subsequent bone loss. Minor alterations in bone metabolism were also seen at 50 mg/kg.
Off-Target Platelet Activation in Macaques Unique to a Therapeutic Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Santostefano Michael J. , Kirchner Jacqueline , Vissinga Christine , Fort Madeline , Lear Sean , Pan Wei-Jian , Prince Peter J. , Hensley Kelly M. , Tran Duc , Rock Dan , Vargas Hugo M. , Narayanan Padma , Jawando Remi , Rees William , Reindel James F. , Reynhardt Kai , Everds Nancy
Published: May 2012

AMG X, a human neutralizing monoclonal antibody (mAb) against a soluble human protein, caused thrombocytopenia, platelet activation, reduced mean arterial pressure, and transient loss of consciousness in cynomolgus monkeys after first intravenous administration. In vitro, AMG X induced activation in platelets from macaque species but not from humans or baboons. Other similar mAbs against the same pharmacological target failed to induce these in vivo and in vitro effects. In addition, the target protein was known to not be expressed on platelets, suggesting that platelet activation occurred through an off-target mechanism. AMG X bound directly to cynomolgus platelets and required both the Fab and Fc portion of the mAb for platelet activation. Binding to platelets was inhibited by preincubation of AMG X with its pharmacological target or with anti-human Fc antibodies or by preincubation of platelets with AMG X F(ab′)2 or human immunoglobulin (IVIG). AMG X F(ab′)2 did not activate platelets. Thus, platelet activation required both recognition/binding of a platelet ligand with the Fab domain and interaction of platelet Fc receptors (i.e., FcγRIIa) with the Fc domain. These findings reflect the complexity of the mechanism of action of mAbs and the increasing awareness of potential for unintended effects in preclinical species.
The psycho-social challenge of adapting to visual impairment
Authors: Southwell Patsy
Published: May 2012

In this article I explain some of the ideas I have found useful in helping people adapt to sight loss. Key concepts are the identification and rejection of common stereotypes of blindness, as symbolized by the white cane, and orientation towards positive role models, without necessarily adopting an identity as a visually impaired person. I also draw upon example interactions with clients to illustrate these themes.
Demonstrating daily living devices to older people with sight loss: A programme evaluation with implications for good practice and policy development
Authors: Percival John
Published: May 2012

This article describes and evaluates a programme of assistive technology demonstration projects that aimed to identify the information and support needs, as well as preferences and priorities, of older people with sight loss. The programme involved a series of projects across five sites managed by a major provider of housing and care services to people with sight loss. Projects typically involved specially trained lead members of staff displaying, discussing and demonstrating daily living devices and encouraging service users to try out items of interest. Programme evaluation reveals that although participants with sight loss have limited knowledge of generic and low-vision devices, they are keen to find technological solutions to routine difficulties, and value devices of practical design and ease of use that promote safety and independence. Evaluation also indicates that participating support staff would benefit from increased levels of awareness, confidence and training to maximize and operationalize service users’ access to, and appropriate use of, assistive technology.
Identification of congenital deafblindness
Authors: Dammeyer Jesper
Published: May 2012

For many reasons an accurate and straightforward identification of congenital deafblindness can be difficult. This article reports on the assessment procedures and experience in Denmark where medical examinations were combined with functional assessments performed through direct observation. The study evaluated the assessment procedure of 190 children and adults found to be congenitally deafblind. Among the 190 individuals 76 percent were determined using functional assessment in addition to medical examination. A case example involving a 12-year-old child is also presented to illustrate the complexity in identifying congenital deafblindness. It is concluded that determining deafblindness should not be limited to medical procedures (vision and hearing tests) alone, but may also involve a lengthy process to assess the level of sense functioning the individual possesses.
A study of CHARGE Syndrome in the UK
Authors: Deuce Gail , Howard Simon , Rose Steve , Fuggle Chris
Published: May 2012

This article reports findings of a questionnaire completed by 44 families living in the UK with a child (aged 15 years or younger) with a medical diagnosis of CHARGE syndrome. The questionnaire contained three sections, namely Diagnosis (including medical and health issues), Child development, and Educational provision. This article reports on the findings of the first section (Diagnosis) that provided information on the presence of major and minor characteristics of CHARGE using the diagnostic criteria outlined and other existing conditions, diagnosis, the provision of vision and hearing aids, genetic testing and regularly prescribed medication. Where possible, the findings were compared with other literature. The findings suggest that affected individuals are receiving a diagnosis at an earlier age than previously. Occurrence of the major characteristics on the whole matched the rate of incidence reported in other literature, with the exception of the presence of a facial palsy that was found to be higher in this study. Many of the minor characteristics were reported by participants, who also reported additional issues including sleep difficulties and sensory integration difficulties. This study also showed this is a highly medicated population. This article provides a reflection on the relevance of these findings for practitioners working with diagnosed children and their families to support everyday living and learning.
Attachment features and functions in adult romantic relationships
Authors: Heffernan Marie E. , Fraley R. Chris , Vicary Amanda M. , Brumbaugh Claudia Chloe
Published: May 2012

The present research examined the development of attachment bonds in adult romantic relationships using a cross-sectional internet survey (Study 1) and a longitudinal study (Study 2). Results suggested that attachment features and functions emerge in a specific sequence that begins with proximity-seeking, followed by safe haven, and finally secure base. Our cross-sectional data indicated that people who had been in relationships for longer were more likely to use their partners for attachment functions. However, in our longitudinal study, after controlling for relationship length and age, there was relatively little change in attachment features and functions over time. The data also indicated that adult attachment bonds might develop more quickly than has been previously assumed.
The Chetwode Commission and British Diplomatic Responses to Violence behind the Lines in the Spanish Civil War
Authors: Anderson Peter
Published: May 2012

In recent years historians have broken years of silence on the brutal repression behind the lines that marked the Spanish Civil War. Despite this, we continue to know very little about British diplomatic efforts to put a stop to the repression carried out by the insurgents grouped around General Franco. By focusing on the understudied Chetwode Prisoner Exchange Commission, this article shows that the British, working alongside the International Committee for the Red Cross, and at times with significant support from the Republican government, did take steps to try and prevent Francoists executing prisoners of war and bring an end to a cycle of reprisals. However, these attempts largely came to naught because the insurgents refused to be swayed by humanitarian considerations and because the British, faced with an imminent Franco victory and pursuing national self interest, abandoned supporters of the Republic to their fate.
Between Angelopoulos and The Battleship Potemkin: Cinema and the Making of Young Communists in Greece in the Initial Post-dictatorship Period (1974–81)
Authors: Papadogiannis Nikolaos
Published: May 2012

The state of the art historiography of youth cultures in post-war Europe centres on ‘Americanization’ as a process of selective reception of American cultural products, including Hollywood cinema, in the late 1950s and early 1960s. However, this paradigm obscures the transnational appeal of French, Italian and Soviet cinema. By contrast, France and the USSR are presented in this article as significant points of reference, at least for young Greek Communists in the period from 1974 to 1981. The article also stresses the importance of Greek politically engaged films in the making of young Communists in the same period. In brief, this article argues that the relationship between the circulation and reception of films and the making of Communist youth identities in Greece in the initial post-dictatorship period (1974–1981) was connected with two intertwined processes: the construction and the challenging of a collective antifascist memory that revolved around left-wing partisan activity in Greece in the early 1940s, a memory that was also captured in the flourishing in the 1970s’ production of Greek politically engaged films, and the employment and subversion of the classification of Greek and non-Greek cinematic genres into ‘progressive’ and ‘reactionary’ types in the cultural politics of the Greek Communist youth organizations.
Integrated Histopathological and Urinary Metabonomic Investigation of the Pathogenesis of Microcystin-LR Toxicosis
Authors: Cantor G. H. , Beckonert O. , Bollard M. E. , Keun H. C. , Ebbels T. M. D. , Antti H. , Wijsman J. A. , Bible R. H. , Breau A. P. , Cockerell G. L. , Holmes E. , Lindon J. C. , Nicholson J. K.
Published: May 2012

Patterns of change of endogenous metabolites may closely reflect systemic and organ-specific toxic changes. The authors examined the metabolic effects of the cyanobacterial (blue-green algal) toxin microcystin-LR by 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis of urinary endogenous metabolites. Rats were treated with a single sublethal dose, either 20 or 80 µg/kg intraperitoneally, and sacrificed at 2 or 7 days post dosing. Changes in the high-dose, 2-day sacrifice group included centrilobular hepatic necrosis and congestion, accompanied in some animals by regeneration and neovascularization. By 7 days, animals had recovered, the necrotizing process had ended, and the centrilobular areas had been replaced by regenerative, usually hypertrophic hepatocytes. There was considerable interanimal variation in the histologic process and severity, which correlated with the changes in patterns of endogenous metabolites in the urine, thus providing additional validation of the biomarker and biochemical changes. Similarity of the shape of the metabolic trajectories suggests that the mechanisms of toxic effects and recovery are similar among the individual animals, albeit that the magnitude and timing are different for the individual animals. Initial decreases in urinary citrate, 2-oxoglutarate, succinate, and hippurate concentrations were accompanied by a temporary increase in betaine and taurine, then creatine from 24 to 48 hours. Further changes were an increase in guanidinoacetate, dimethylglycine, urocanic acid, and bile acids. As a tool, urine can be repeatedly and noninvasively sampled and metabonomics utilized to study the onset and recovery after toxicity, thus identifying time points of maximal effect. This can help to employ histopathological examination in a guided and effective fashion.
Complications Related to Anatomic Reconstruction of the Coracoclavicular Ligaments
Authors: Milewski Matthew D. , Tompkins Marc , Giugale Juan M. , Carson Eric W. , Miller Mark D. , Diduch David R.
Published: May 2012

Background:

Anatomic reconstruction of the coracoclavicular (CC) ligaments has become a popular surgical treatment for high-grade acromioclavicular (AC) dislocations, but little has been reported about complications related to these newer surgical techniques.

Purpose:

We sought to review the complications related to several new techniques for the anatomic reconstruction of the CC ligaments for the treatment of AC separations.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of the operative treatment of AC separation utilizing anatomic reconstruction of the CC ligaments by reviewing the case logs of 3 fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons at a single academic sports medicine center for the past 5 years using appropriate current procedural terminology codes. The medical records and postoperative radiographs were assessed for complications.

Results:

Twenty-seven cases of anatomic reconstruction of the CC ligaments were reviewed. All patients had an autograft or allograft ligament reconstruction utilizing either a coracoid tunnel (10 cases) or a loop around the coracoid base (17 cases). Eight complications (80%) were noted in the coracoid tunnel group including 2 coracoid fractures (20%), 5 patients with some loss of reduction (more than 5-mm increased CC interval displacement on subsequent postoperative radiographs) (50%), and 1 patient with an intraoperative failure of the coracoid button fixation (10%). Six patients developed complications in the coracoid loop group (35%) including 3 clavicle fractures (18% within group, 11% overall), 1 patient with loss of reduction (6%), 1 patient with loss of reduction and an infection (6% within group, 4% overall), and 1 patient with adhesive capsulitis postoperatively (6% within group, 4% overall).

Conclusion:

Newer techniques for the anatomic reconstruction of the CC ligaments may have steep learning curves associated with complications such as coracoid and clavicle fractures. Loss of reduction continues to be associated with the operative treatment of high-grade AC separations. Further refinement of surgical technique and experience with the operative treatment of AC separation is warranted.
Poly(butylene/diethylene glycol succinate) multiblock copolyester as a candidate biomaterial for soft tissue engineering: Solid-state properties, degradability, and biocompatibility
Authors: Gualandi Chiara , Soccio Michelina , Govoni Marco , Valente Sabrina , Lotti Nadia , Munari Andrea , Giordano Emanuele , Pasquinelli Gianandrea , Focarete Maria Letizia
Published: May 2012

A multiblock bioresorbable copolyester, poly(butylene/diethylene glycol succinate), was synthesized by reactive blending, and it was used, together with the corresponding poly(butylene succinate) homopolymer, to form films and to fabricate biomimetic electrospun scaffolds. The poly(butylene/diethylene glycol succinate) scaffold had a more pronounced elastomeric behavior than poly(butylene succinate). It also underwent hydrolytic degradation faster than poly(butylene succinate) since the incorporated diethylene glycol succinate units rendered the copolymer more hydrophilic than poly(butylene succinate). The films degraded faster than electrospun samples due to the autocatalytic effect of carboxylic end-groups. The biodegradable poly(butylene/diethylene glycol succinate) scaffold supported the growth and preserved the cardiac phenotype markers of H9c2 cells, demonstrating its potential utility in soft tissue engineering applications.
Ideology and the Market Metaphor in Rational Choice Theory of Religion: A Rhetorical Critique of ‘Religious Economies’
Authors: McKinnon Andrew M.
Published: May 2012

Despite the many criticisms of the empirical and theoretical adequacy of Rational Choice theory, it continues to have considerable influence and appeal in the sociological study of religion. This article examines the use of the market metaphor and its subsidiary metaphors, with a view to understanding how these metaphors work in rational choice theory, and what this might be able to tell us about its enduring influence. I suggest that the metaphor is a useful one for studying religion in a capitalist, commodity oriented society, but when we forget that the ‘religious economy’ is a metaphor, it comes to serve ideological purposes well suited to the neo-liberal agenda. The market (conceived after a neo-conservative fashion) is thereby naturalized and serves to reinforce the ideology of a one-dimensional society.
Triple Negative Breast Cancer: A Brief Review of its Characteristics and Treatment Options
Authors: Griffiths Carrie L. , Olin Jacqueline L.
Published: May 2012

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive variant of breast cancer, is characterized by lack of expression of the estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptors (PRs) and the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER-2) that are commonly observed in other breast cancer subtypes. The TNBC subtype primarily occurs in younger women of African American or Hispanic descent and tumors tend to be high grade and initially responsive to chemotherapy. However, TNBC is characteristically aggressive with high recurrence, metastatic, and mortality rates. Treatment options are limited since the hormonal receptor and HER-2 antagonists typically used for other breast cancers are ineffective. As such, the mainstay of treatment of TNBC is traditional systemic cytotoxic chemotherapy. Potential future therapies for TNBC include targeted molecular strategies including poly (adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase (PARP) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors and antiangiogenic agents. Further research aimed at identifying unique genetic characteristics of TNBC may allow development of other targeted molecular chemotherapy treatment options.
Prevalence and Usage of Printed and Electronic Drug References and Patient Medication Records in Community Pharmacies in Malaysia
Authors: Usir Ezlina , Lua Pei Lin , Majeed Abu Bakar Abdul
Published: May 2012

This study aimed to determine the availability and usage of printed and electronic references and Patient Medication Record in community pharmacy. It was conducted for over 3 months from 15 January to 30 April 2007. Ninety-three pharmacies participated. Structured questionnaires were mailed to community pharmacies. Six weeks later a reminder was sent to all non responders, who were given another six weeks to return the completed questionnaire. Outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test of independence. Almost all the pharmacies (96.8%) have at least Monthly Index of Medical Specialties (MIMS) while 78.5% have at least MIMS ANNUAL in their stores. Only about a third (31.2%) of the pharmacies were equipped with online facilities of which the majority referred to medical websites (88.9%) with only a minority (11.1%) referring to electronic journals. More than half (59.1%) of the pharmacists kept Patient Medication Record profiles with 49.1% storing it in paper, 41.8% electronically and 9.1% in both printed and electronic versions. In general, prevalence and usage of electronic references in community pharmacies were rather low. Efforts should be increased to encourage wider usage of electronic references and Patient Medication Records in community pharmacies to facilitate pharmaceutical care.
Renal Toxicity of Long-Term Therapy With Tenofovir in HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Monteagudo-Chu Maricelle O. , Chang Mei H. , Fung Horatio B. , Bräu Norbert
Published: May 2012

Data are sparse on long-term renal toxicity of tenofovir as measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and progression to advanced stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The objective of the study is to determine the incidence of renal impairment associated with the use of tenofovir in HIV-infected patients, using abacavir as a control. In a single tertiary care center, all HIV-infected patients with baseline CKD stage 0 or 1 (CKD-1), who were started on either tenofovir or abacavir from 1998 to 2008 and had at least 1 follow-up eGFR measure on therapy, were included in this retrospective analysis. Progression to CKD stages 2 to 5 was compared using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Progression to CKD-2 and CKD-3 occurred more frequently in patients who received tenofovir than those receiving abacavir (CKD-2, 2-year actuarial frequency, 48.8% vs 23.7%; P < .001, log rank; CKD-3, 5.8% vs 0.0%; P = .028). Only 1 patient in the tenofovir group progressed to CKD-4 and none to CKD-5. Treatment with tenofovir was the only independent factor associated with progression to CKD-2 (hazard ratio [HR], 2.12; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.41-3.18; P < .001) and to CKD-3 (HR, 4.91; 95% CI, 1.02-23.7; P = .048). In HIV-infected patients, long-term therapy with tenofovir is associated with mild-to-moderate nephrotoxicity which is significantly higher than in abacavir-treated patients.
Synthesis and properties of a novel poly(diethynylbenzene-siloxane) resin
Authors: Wang Fan , Zhou Yan , Huang Farong , Du Lei
Published: May 2012

A novel kind of resin poly(diethynylbenzene-siloxane) was synthesized. The resin was easily processable at room temperature and thermally polymerized above 180 °C to form a heat-resistant thermoset. The progress and the nature of polymerization reaction were studied by Fourier transform Infrared spectrometry and differential scanning calorimetry. The conversion of the resin to a highly cross-linked thermoset was discussed. The cross-linked resin exhibited high thermal stability. The sintered product of the crosslinked resin above 1450 °C was analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry.
Detection and evaluation of rail surface defects using alternating current field measurement techniques
Authors: Papaelias Mayorkinos P , Lugg Martin
Published: May 2012

Reliable and cost‐effective inspection of rail tracks is of paramount importance to ensure the safety of rolling stock operations. In this paper alternating current field measurement (ACFM) sensors are used to carry out experiments on artificially induced rail surface defects at various speeds using testing configurations that simulate actual inspection conditions found in the field. From the obtained results it can be clearly seen that the ACFM sensors can detect the artificially induced rail surface defects even when relatively significant lift-off is involved, i.e. ∼5 mm and that the effect of increasing speed on the amplitude of the Bx signal, which is directly related to the depth of the crack, is negligible. However, clustered defects cannot be easily resolved and the overall amplitude is related to the spacing of the defects within a cluster. The order of clustered defects also significantly influences the maximum amplitude of the recorded Bx signal. The validity of the results obtained from the tests on artificially induced defects was verified by conducting further ACFM tests on a rail sample removed from service that contained mild rolling contact fatigue cracks.
Religion Replenishes Self-Control
Authors: Rounding Kevin , Lee Albert , Jacobson Jill A. , Ji Li-Jun
Published: May 2012

Researchers have proposed that the emergence of religion was a cultural adaptation necessary for promoting self-control. Self-control, in turn, may serve as a psychological pillar supporting a myriad of adaptive psychological and behavioral tendencies. If this proposal is true, then subtle reminders of religious concepts should result in higher levels of self-control. In a series of four experiments, we consistently found that when religious themes were made implicitly salient, people exercised greater self-control, which, in turn, augmented their ability to make decisions in a number of behavioral domains that are theoretically relevant to both major religions and humans’ evolutionary success. Furthermore, when self-control resources were minimized, making it difficult for people to exercise restraint on future unrelated self-control tasks, we found that implicit reminders of religious concepts refueled people’s ability to exercise self-control. Moreover, compared with morality- or death-related concepts, religion had a unique influence on self-control.
Six Characters in Search of an Author
Authors: Badley Graham
Published: May 2012

A discussion about bricolage is presented in a one-act play, a qualitative comedy in the making. The play takes its initial shape from Pirandello’s “Six Characters in Search of an Author” but is transformed into a more academic, but occasionally comic, dialogue. The characters engage with a journal editor by weaving the ideas and often the words of academic writers into a script about bricolage as a qualitative research strategy. The characters, three of whom are Shakespearean in origin, also borrow or steal lines and bits of plot from other plays, especially “The Tempest.” The comedy ends with another comic offering, a bricolage about bricolage.
Pensive Poetics
Authors: Bassett Raewyn
Published: May 2012

As a researcher the author began to reflect on her role on a team project as she and her colleagues developed a research design and Letter of Intent (LOI) for submission to a funding agency. The area of research interest was interprofessional collaboration. The author and her colleagues intended to observe a team of health professionals collaborating in health care decisions. The research team had not worked together previously, which provided an ideal forum for observing their own collaborative development. The team’s observations and reflections might prepare them for observing the collaborative practices of other teams. However, they found collaboration difficult to put into practice. The reflection presented here is author’s alone. As the author pondered her role in the team, she found the economy of words in poetry forced her to explicitly think about and face, emotionally, the part she played in the team’s stilted collaborative efforts. As a team, the author and her colleagues continue to work at collaboration.
A Study of Young Offenders’ Perceptions of Health and Health Care Services in Custody and in the Community
Authors: Whittle Nathan , Macdonald Wendy , Bailey Sue
Published: May 2012

The level of unmet health needs in young offenders has been raised as a concern in recent research with this population. There is a lack of research examining the views of young offenders on health issues and the services available to them. This article summarizes a qualitative study conducted in four young offender institutions in the United Kingdom with young people expressing

their attitudes toward aspects of health and the provision of health care services. While there were gaps in their knowledge, the young people were well informed of the services they could access. They also identified barriers to accessing these services and the effect that being in custody could have on their health. Many of the young people thought that the services provided in custody addressed their health needs more successfully than community-based services. Implications for user-informed service delivery to meet their health needs are discussed.
Antecedents to Consumer Perceptions of Sacredness in Extended Service Experiences
Authors: McGinnis Lee Phillip , Gentry James W. , Gao Tao (Tony)
Published: May 2012

Despite the marketing opportunities associated with consumers' perceptions of sacredness in many service consumption experiences, academic research on what drives consumers' sacredness perceptions is limited. Using the context of golf, the study investigates the antecedents to ritual experiences and perceptions of sacredness in service activities. Survey results among more than 700 male and female golfers indicate that flow and communitas impact sacredness perceptions somewhat differently between men and women. While flow impacts sacredness for both genders, the influence of communitas on sacredness is significant only among men. Desire for privileged status and its impact on sacredness, however, impacts only women. Results further indicate a strong mutually reinforcing relationship between flow and communitas. Sacredness can have powerful influences on customers in creating lasting and potentially reoccurring experiences. Managers should realize that creating welcoming environments can enable extraordinary experiences and that tactics such as increasing participation frequency are more necessary for women than men in creating sacredness.
The Impact of Process Recovery Communication on Customer Satisfaction, Repurchase Intentions, and Word-of-Mouth Intentions
Authors: Van Vaerenbergh Yves , Larivière Bart , Vermeir Iris
Published: May 2012

Complaint management should not be restricted to a firm’s efforts to fix the problem and restore customer satisfaction after a service failure (i.e., customer recovery [CR]). Rather, firms should learn from customer complaints and improve their processes to prevent similar failures (i.e., process recovery [PR]). PR communication, or the feedback to customers that describes how an organization has executed complaint-based process improvements, thus may be critical. Four studies investigate the impact of PR communication on customer outcomes for customers (1) who experienced a failure, complained, and received satisfactory CR; (2) who experienced a failure, complained, and received unsatisfactory CR; (3) who experienced a failure but did not complain; and (4) who did not experience a failure. PR communication positively affects customers' overall satisfaction, repurchase intentions, and word-of-mouth intentions through higher perceptions of the firm’s relationship investment and overall justice. In addition, such communication is most effective for the second and third types of customers; the effects for the first and fourth types are less pronounced. Managers who want to maximize the return on their complaint-handling efforts should communicate process recoveries to customers.
The Impact of Vertical Service Line Extensions and Brand Salience on Reciprocal Transfer of Image and Performance Associations
Authors: Boisvert Jean
Published: May 2012

Research has addressed the extent to which an extension, horizontal or vertical, reciprocally affects a parent brand negatively through dilution or positively through enhancement, without explaining the process underlying brand associations' reciprocal transfer by type. This article addresses the dynamics behind reciprocal transfer of image and performance associations triggered by a vertical service line extension and prior contextual salience of the brand. The results suggest that reciprocal transfer of unique image and performance brand associations is direct and modifies the parent brand associations' structure leading to dilution in one case and enhancement in the other. However, with prior contextual presence of the parent brand, reciprocal transfer is positively mediated through initial ratings of image associations with the extension. In contrast, direct reciprocal effects of both vertical direction and prior parent brand salience occur only through the mediating effect of the extension’s unique performance associations, which confirms this study’s assumptions. This study should help managers carefully choose the timing of launch of a new vertical service line extension, better understand how the type of associations can affect the parent brand, and measure their strategies against corporate objectives.
“I’m Mad and I Can’t Get That Service Failure Off My Mind”
Authors: Strizhakova Yuliya , Tsarenko Yelena , Ruth Julie A.
Published: May 2012

Although anger elicited in service failures harms providers, little is known about the ways customers deal with anger. Building upon stress-and-coping theory, we propose a theoretical framework that examines customer coping strategies—expressive, active, and denial—and rumination about the incident as mediators of anger on customer intentions. Across two studies and in more and less conventional service channels, rumination decreases positive behavioral intentions and increases negative word-of-mouth intentions. Customer coping strategies mediate effects of anger on rumination. Specifically, while expressive coping mediates effects of anger on rumination, active coping mediates these effects in more conventional service channels, whereas denial mediates these effects in less conventional channels. Customer tendency to ruminate moderates effects in less conventional channels. Because customers have and use a repertoire of coping strategies that differentially affect rumination and customer intentions, strategies designed to guide customers toward active coping and mitigate rumination should be the cornerstone of service recovery. If and when service failures occur, managers should encourage customers' active coping to resolve the problem; otherwise, customers may cope by expressing their negative emotions to others or deny the episode, both of which increase customer rumination and detrimental outcomes for the firm.
Development and Validation of the Cultural Competence of Program Evaluators (CCPE) Self-Report Scale
Authors: Dunaway Krystall E. , Morrow Jennifer A. , Porter Bryan E.
Published: May 2012

No self-report measure of cultural competence currently exists in program evaluation. Adapting items from cultural competence measures in fields such as counseling and nursing, the researchers developed the Cultural Competence of Program Evaluators (CCPE) self-report scale. The goals of this study were to validate the CCPE and to assess differences in level of cultural competence among program evaluators based on various demographic variables. The sample consisted of 174 evaluators. Principal components analyses revealed three factors of the CCPE: cultural knowledge, cultural skills, and cultural awareness. The overall alpha of the CCPE was .88, and convergent validity was established via significant positive correlations between the CCPE and the Multicultural Counseling Inventory (MCI). Additionally, individuals who had received cultural competence training scored significantly higher on the CCPE, and receipt of cultural competence training was a significant predictor of scores on the CCPE.
Evaluation of detemir in diabetic cats managed with a protocol for intensive blood glucose control
Authors: Roomp Kirsten , Rand Jacquie
Published: May 2012

The aim of this study was to report outcomes using detemir and a protocol aimed at intensive blood glucose control with home monitoring in diabetic cats, and to compare the results with a previous study using the same protocol with glargine. Eighteen cats diagnosed with diabetes and previously treated with other insulins were included in the study. Data was provided by owners who joined the online German Diabetes-Katzen Forum. The overall remission rate was 67%. For cats that began the protocol before or after 6 months of diagnosis, remission rates were 81% and 42%, respectively ( P = 0.14). No significant differences were identified between the outcomes for the glargine and detemir studies, with the exception of three possibly interrelated factors: a slightly older median age of the detemir cohort at diabetes diagnosis, a higher rate of chronic renal disease in the detemir cohort and lower maximal dose for insulin detemir.
Predicting thermophysical properties of ionic liquids as a function of temperature and pressure
Authors: Mendonça Ana CF , Dörr Nicole , Pádua Agílio AH
Published: May 2012

Correlation and prediction models to describe density, surface tension and viscosity of ionic liquids are evaluated and extended to new ionic liquids with potential interest for applications in lubrication. Original experimental results on these properties are also reported. The ionic liquids considered are based on alkylammonium cations including hydroxyl functional groups, and on alkylsulfate or alkylsulfonate anions with different lengths of the alkyl side chains. Where possible, predictive schemes are proposed to calculate density, surface tension and viscosity as a function of temperature and up to high pressure, sometimes starting solely from a knowledge of the molecular structure of the ions, but the availability of experimental data at room temperature and atmospheric pressure can greatly improve the predictions away from ambient conditions. For density, a group contribution method was parameterised for the ionic liquids studied here. Parameters for other families of ionic liquids exist in the literature. This model for the density is then used in correlations of surface tension and viscosity. For this last transport property, predictions of viscosity at high pressure are possible from a knowledge of data at atmospheric pressure.
Understanding the influence of surface roughness on the tribological interactions at the shoe–surface interface in tennis
Authors: Clarke James , Carré Matt , Damm Loic , Dixon Sharon
Published: May 2012

The traction provided by shoe–surface interactions in tennis can have an impact on player safety, performance and overall enjoyment of the sport. There is a requirement for an improved scientific understanding of the tribological interactions at the shoe–surface interface and the effects that footwear and surface characteristics have on the traction developed. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence surface roughness has on traction present during a sliding contact between a shoe and an acrylic hard court tennis surface. The substrate of acrylic hard court tennis surfaces are formed from a coating of a silica sand and acrylic paint mix, giving them variations in surface roughness characteristics. Mechanical traction tests were performed on five surfaces of varying roughness at normal forces of between 400 N and 800 N with a commercially available acrylic hard court tennis shoe (with a herringbone outsole pattern) and a shoe with a flat outsole. Significant linear relationships were found between dynamic traction force and normal force. A trend for decreased dynamic traction with increased roughness was found. When examined under a microscope after testing evidence of contact between the shoe and the surface decreasing with increased surface roughness was found. With the flat shoe, surface roughness affected the relationship between the coefficient of traction and the normal load. As roughness increased the coefficient of dynamic traction becomes less dependent on normal force. Evidence of a sudden increase in traction with the flat shoe when tested on the roughest surface suggests other friction mechanisms caused by the outsole overcoming the roughness of the surface, such as abrasive wear, had a significant effect on dynamic traction force.
Prevalence of anti-drug antibodies against interferon beta has decreased since routine analysis of neutralizing antibodies became clinical practice
Authors: Jungedal Roger , Lundkvist Malin , Engdahl Elin , Ramanujam Ryan , Westerlind Helga , Sominanda Ajith , Hillert Jan , Fogdell-Hahn Anna
Published: May 2012

Background:

Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against interferon beta (IFNβ) lead to loss of treatment efficacy in multiple sclerosis patients. The seroprevalence of NAbs in multiple sclerosis patients treated with IFNβ during 2003–2004 was 32% in a cross-sectional analysis of routine data.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the seroprevalence of NAbs, the levels of NAb titres and the IFNβ preparations used for treatment of multiple sclerosis patients had changed in 2009–2010.

Methods:

This study included 1296 patients, analysed for NAbs with the myxovirus resistance protein A gene expression assay in 2009–2010.

Results:

The seroprevalence of NAbs had decreased to 19% in 2009–2010, which is significantly lower compared with the previous study in 2003–2004 ( p<0.0001). This decrease was attributed to the IFNβ-1a preparations only, not to IFNβ-1b. The frequency of patients with high positive titres decreased the most, from 16% to 7% ( p<0.0001).

Conclusions:

NAb seroprevalence has decreased since NAb monitoring became clinical practice in 2003, especially for patients with high NAb titres. This might be due to the stricter monitoring of NAb titres that prompt NAb positive patients to stop treatment, to preferential use of less immunogenic drugs and to alteration of drug formulations.
Does the mode of candidate selection affect the representativeness of parties?
Authors: Spies Dennis C , Kaiser André
Published: May 2012

In this article, we analyse the impact of intra-party procedures of candidate selection for national elections on the representativeness of parties towards their voters. With regard to candidate selection we distinguish between two dimensions: inclusion and centralization. While the first identifies the type of selectorate for candidate nominations (members, delegates or committees), the second captures the territorial unit in which the nomination is decided (local, regional or national). Based on data for 53 parties in 9 Western European countries for the period 1970 to 1990, the analysis points to the relevance of the inclusion dimension. Parties in which party elites decide the nomination of candidates show slightly higher degrees of representation than parties with more inclusive selectorates. We conduct our analysis separately for two frequently used but theoretically different concepts of representation: cross-sectional representation (at one point in time) and dynamic representation (over time). Our analysis shows that candidate-selection procedures only matter for the first concept. The empirically inconsistent results between the two concepts are due to deficiencies in the way dynamic representation is currently operationalized.
A theory of organizational choice
Authors: Farrer Benjamin
Published: May 2012

This article argues that niche party formation is only one of several substitutable strategies for niche activists seeking policy influence. Other organizational mechanisms are argued to be superior to political parties under certain institutional conditions. I introduce a formal model of how activists achieve policy influence by choosing to support the formation of whichever type of organization will optimally send a signal of electoral threat to mainstream politicians. Institutions determine the different access costs for the various organizational mechanisms that can be used to send this signal, and also determine the associated response costs to mainstream politicians of making concessions to different organizational mechanisms. Therefore under particular institutional circumstances that affect these two cost parameters, interest group entry may surpass party entry as the optimal strategy for activists. The predictions of the model are assessed via a nested logit model using cross-national survey data on how activists have allocated their individual support to different organizational mechanisms.