bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales—Short Self-Report and Observer Forms
Authors: Amador-Campos Juan Antonio , Gómez-Benito Juana , Ramos-Quiroga Josep Antoni
Published: July 2012

Objective: To validate the Catalan adaptation of the Conners’ Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS), short version (self-report: CAARS-S:S; observer: CAARS-O:S). Method: A community sample of 424 adults responded to the two forms. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the dimensional structure. Results: The hypothesized four-factor model (Inattention/Memory Problems, Hyperactivity/Restlessness, Impulsivity/Emotional Lability, and Problems With Self-Concept) presented an adequate fit for the self-report and observer forms. Reliability was slightly higher for the CAARS-O:S (average α = .78) than for the CAARS-S:S (average α = .75). Test–retest average correlations were r = .80 (self-reports) and r = .73 (observer ratings). Informant agreement was high at test (average r = .59) and retest (average r = .61). There were significant gender and age differences. Conclusion: This adaptation of the two short forms of the CAARS-S presents adequate evidence of validity and reliability, and it can therefore be used for diagnostic purposes and cross-cultural comparisons.
Evaluating Alternative Pavement Marking Materials
Authors: Fu Haoqiang , Wilmot Chester G.
Published: July 2012

On federally funded projects, the Federal Highway Administration wants state highway maintenance engineers to justify their choice of pavement marking material and show how it is better than alternative materials in the application environment in which it is being proposed. However, a convenient method of conducting such a comparison is not available. In this study, a model is described which allows comparison of the relative value of alternative pavement marking materials given the existing conditions at the application site such as pavement surface type, remaining pavement service life, traffic volume, line type, and line color. The model compares alternative pavement marking materials in terms of their benefit-cost ratio over the useful life of the material. The model was developed from approximately 3,500 readings of retroreflectivity on 40 mil and 90 mil thermoplastic, tape, and inverted profile pavement marking material on Interstate highways in Louisiana. Its use is demonstrated in sample applications.
Using Active Video Games for Physical Activity Promotion
Authors: Peng Wei , Crouse Julia C. , Lin Jih-Hsuan
Published: July 2012

This systematic review evaluates interventions using active video games (AVGs) to increase physical activity and summarizes laboratory studies quantifying intensity of AVG play among children and adults. Databases (Cochrane Library, PsychInfo, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science) and forward citation and reference list searches were used to identify peer-reviewed journal articles in English through March 2011. Studies that used off-the-shelf AVGs to increase physical activity with quantitative outcomes or studies that quantified intensity of AVG play were included. Information on sample characteristics, AVGs employed, study design and conditions, outcome measures, results, and conclusions was extracted by two researchers. Intervention studies were ranked on design quality. Thirteen interventions and 28 laboratory studies were identified. All laboratory studies demonstrated that AVGs are capable of providing light-to-moderate intensity physical activity. However, only three interventions supported AVGs as an effective tool to significantly increase physical activity or exercise attendance. As AVGs are becoming more popular, additional research is needed to determine how to capitalize on the potential of AVGs to increase physical activity.
Televised Entertainment-Education to Prevent Adolescent Alcohol Use
Authors: van Leeuwen Lonneke , Renes Reint Jan , Leeuwis Cees
Published: July 2012

Alcohol use among adolescents is a concern in the Netherlands because of its high prevalence and risks. To discourage adolescents from drinking alcohol, a televised entertainment-education (E-E) intervention was developed. This study investigated responses of adolescents on perceived realism and enjoyment of the E-E intervention, as well as its impact on alcohol drinking behavior. Viewers perceived the E-E narratives to be credible and enjoyable but did not relate to the characters in the narratives. However, exposure to the E-E intervention predicted desired changes in alcohol drinking behavior, intentions to decrease alcohol use, and perceived normative pressure, especially in less educated viewers. These findings demonstrate that E-E is a promising strategy to target adolescent alcohol use. Future research will focus on the individual processes and story elements that account for the positive results.
Perceptions About HIV and Condoms and Consistent Condom Use Among Male Clients of Commercial Sex Workers in the Philippines
Authors: Regan Rotrease , Morisky Donald E.
Published: July 2012

Because consistent condom use is an effective strategy in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections and HIV transmission, it is important to examine social cognitive influences of consistent condom use not only among female sex workers (FSWs) but also among their male clients, for whom less is known. Because little is known about how HIV knowledge and condom attitudes affect condom use among male clients of FSWs in the Philippines, the main objective was to determine what characteristics (age, education, HIV knowledge, marital status) as well as attributes taken from protection motivation theory (perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, response efficacy) are significantly associated with consistent condom use among male clients of FSWs. Logistic regression analyses showed that the odds of using condoms consistently with an FSW are 13% higher for those with more years of education (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03, 1.23), higher versus lower perception of severity of HIV/AIDS (AOR = 1.97; 95% CI = 1.04, 3.73), and had a higher score for response efficacy of condoms (AOR = 1.14; 95% CI = 1.03, 1.27). Future HIV/AIDS prevention interventions that address condom use among male clients should promote educational attainment and focus on awareness of the enduring negative health consequences of acquiring HIV/AIDS, as well as cultivate positive attitudes toward the efficacy of condom use, using creative social marketing strategies.
Identifying Optimal Rapport-Building Behaviors In Inducing Patrons’ Emotional Attachment In Luxury Restaurants
Authors: Hyun Sunghyup Sean , Kim Insin
Published: July 2012

The purposes of this study were to (a) identify optimal rapport-building behaviors for inducing patrons’ emotional attachment to a service provider in the luxury restaurant context, (b) investigate the moderating role of patrons’ motivational orientation in the emotional attachment formation process, and (c) examine the ways in which patrons’ emotional attachment induces dedicational behaviors in the luxury restaurant industry. Based on the existing theoretical backgrounds, five rapport-building behaviors and three dedicational behaviors were derived. The theoretical relationships between the proposed concepts were also developed via literature review, which resulted in the development of a conceptual model. The proposed conceptual model was empirically tested via structural equation modeling analysis using data collected from 379 luxury restaurant patrons. Based on data analysis, it was found that five types of rapport development behaviors are crucial factors in the formation of patrons’ emotional attachment. During the attachment development process, motivational orientation plays a moderating function. Furthermore, patrons’ emotional attachment toward service employees induces patrons’ dedicational behaviors. The critical theoretical/managerial implications of these findings are then discussed in the article.
Low apparent risk of CCNU (lomustine)-associated clinical hepatotoxicity in cats
Authors: Musser Margaret L , Quinn Hilary T , Chretin John D
Published: July 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of serum alanine transaminase (ALT) increases in cats treated with 1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea (CCNU, lomustine). The medical records of 95 cats treated with CCNU were reviewed, 29 of which met study criteria (at least one treatment with CCNU as a single agent, and at least one pretreatment and one post-treatment complete biochemical profile). Cats that received concurrent prednisone or dexamethasone were included, but those that received concurrent hepatoprotective or hepatotoxic medications were excluded. Cats included in the study were diagnosed with hepatic carcinoma, mammary carcinoma, lymphoma, mast cell tumor, plasma cell tumor and gastrointestinal leiomyoma. CCNU was given as a single agent at 31–60 mg/m2, once every 4–8 weeks. Serum alanine transaminase (ALT) activity was measured after at least one dose of CCNU. Four cats (13.7%) had increased ALT activity above the reference interval before starting treatment. Two additional cats (6.8%) developed increased ALT activity above the reference interval 1 month after treatment with CCNU. One cat developed clinical signs potentially associated with hepatotoxicity, without a concurrent increase in ALT, 3 weeks following the final dose of CCNU. No association between dosing frequency, cumulative dose, initial starting dose or concurrent medications, and increases in ALT were found. Clinically significant hepatic injury is seemingly uncommon in cats treated with CCNU.
Mutation analysis of GM1 gangliosidosis in a Siamese cat from Japan in the 1960s
Authors: Uddin Mohammad M , Tanimoto Takeshi , Yabuki Akira , Kotani Takao , Kuwamura Mitsuru , Chang Hye-Sook , Yamato Osamu
Published: July 2012

GM1 gangliosidosis is a fatal, progressive neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disease caused by mutations of the β-galactosidase ( GLB1) gene. In feline GM1 gangliosidosis, a pathogenic mutation (c.1448G>C) of the feline GLB1 gene was identified in Siamese and Korat cats previously diagnosed with the disease in the USA and Italy, respectively. The present study demonstrated the same mutation in a Siamese cat that had been diagnosed with GM1 gangliosidosis in Japan in the 1960s. The mutation was confirmed using DNA extracted from stored paraffin-embedded brain tissue by a direct sequencing method and a polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. This pathogenic mutation seems to have been distributed around the world.
The Biology of Caring
Authors: Zender Robynn , Olshansky Ellen
Published: July 2012

Caring, a core tenet of nursing practice, grew out of a holistic approach. Nurse theorists often note the establishment of a therapeutic relationship as the beginning point of caring, with subsequent nursing interventions reliant upon this relationship for effectiveness. Relational exchange serves as a source of either stress or healing between participants, and rarely is its impact neutral. Relational stress, in fact, has become a primary contributor to many disease processes in terms of promotion and progression and perhaps even initiation. Patient–provider relationships have a long history in medical and nursing literature as critical to providing effective interventions, but our understanding of relational dynamics between patients and providers remains fairly superficial. This theoretical article adapts a previously described biobehavioral model to illustrate the nature and centrality of caring relationships in nursing practice. The dynamic process of face-to-face engagement is deconstructed from a psychobiological standpoint in order to understand the physiological, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral impacts of relational interaction. This understanding is then applied to the patient–provider relationship. Finally, the utility of biomarkers of stress, positive emotion and resonance, and of disease is discussed relative to the patient-provider relationship. Methodological and interpretive challenges inherent in this line of research, along with suggestions to address such challenges, are also presented.
Interpersonal Touch
Authors: Papathanassoglou Elizabeth D. E. , Mpouzika Meropi D. A.
Published: July 2012

Introduction:

Nurses use several forms of touch in patient encounters. Interpersonal touch elicits specific physiological and psychological responses, including neuroendocrine effects and reduction of stress. Critical illness is a state of excessive physiological and psychological stress.

Aims:

To critically review evidence on the effect of touch on physiological outcomes in critically ill individuals. Results of intervention studies in adult critical care settings were reviewed along with supportive evidence from studies in other populations.

Methods:

Critical literature review based on studies published in MEDLINE, PubMed, Cinahl, Embase, and Cochrane databases.

Results:

Eleven studies were reviewed. Significant effects of interpersonal touch included lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure and respiratory rate, improved sleep, and decreased pain. Almost no results were replicated owing to discrepancies among studies. Although the effect of touch on cardiovascular autonomic status appears considerable, several confounders must be considered. In noncritically ill populations, replicable findings included increased urinary dopamine and serotonin, natural killer cytotoxic activity, and salivary chromogranin. Effects on plasma cortisol and immune cells were variable. Effects appear to vary according to amount of pressure, body site, duration, and timing: Moderate pressure touch may elicit a parasympathetic response in contrast to light touch, which may elicit a sympathetic response. Moreover, touch effects may be mediated by the density of autonomic innervation received by the body areas involved and repetition of sessions.

Conclusion:

The physiological pathway mediating the effects of touch is unclear. Although no concrete conclusions can be drawn, research evidence suggests that touch interventions may benefit critically ill individuals.
Women’s leadership learning: A reflexive review of representations and leadership teaching
Authors: Stead Valerie , Elliott Carole
Published: July 2012

This article contributes to understandings of the experiential nature of leadership learning by drawing attention to the role of disruption as an organizing influence on women’s leadership learning, and by generating insights for leadership teaching. Examining leadership learning as an experiential process, we present the development of a typology intended to act as a summary of literature focusing on women’s experiences of leadership learning. Informed by our experiences of developing and using the typology as a teaching aid in two leadership development interventions we progress through a cycle of critical reflections to present a reflexive analysis of the typology’s performative effect and how it brings into being representations of women’s leadership. Moving from initial observations to deeper reflections the analysis draws attention to how disrupting pervades women’s learning of leadership, thus extending our understanding of gender’s influence on organizing learning experiences. The article considers how we, as educators, might forefront disrupting as a process in leadership learning interventions by re-positioning instruments, such as the typology, to problematize and deconstruct leadership learning. We conclude by proposing a reflexive process in the classroom that takes the form of a critical dialogue to enable educators and participants to de-construct their experience.
Predictors of driving in individuals with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Akinwuntan Abiodun Emmanuel , Devos Hannes , Stepleman Lara , Casillas Rhonda , Rahn Rebecca , Smith Suzanne , Williams Mitzi Joi
Published: July 2012

Background:

We previously reported that performance on the Stroke Driver Screening Assessment (SDSA), a battery of four cognitive tests that takes less than 30 min to administer, predicted the driving performance of participants with multiple sclerosis (MS) on a road test with 86% accuracy, 80% sensitivity, and 88% specificity.

Objectives:

In this study, we further investigated if the addition of driving-related physical and visual tests and other previously identified cognitive predictors, including performance on the Useful Field of View test, will result in a better accuracy of predicting participants’ on-road driving performance.

Methods:

Forty-four individuals with relapsing–remitting MS (age = 46 ± 11 years, 37 females) and Expanded Disability Status Scale values between 1 and 7 were administered selected physical, visual and cognitive tests including the SDSA. The model that explained the highest variance of participants’ performance on a standardized road test was identified using multiple regression analysis. A discriminant equation containing the tests included in the best model was used to predict pass or fail performance on the test.

Results:

Performance on 12 cognitive and three visual tests were significantly associated with performance on the road test. Five of the tests together explained 59% of the variance and predicted the pass or fail outcome of the road test with 91% accuracy, 70% sensitivity, and 97% specificity.

Conclusion:

Participants’ on-road performance was more accurately predicted by the model identified in this study than using only performance on the SDSA test battery. The five psychometric/off-road tests should be used as a screening battery, after which a follow-up road test should be conducted to finally decide the fitness to drive of individuals with relapsing–remitting MS. Future studies are needed to confirm and validate the findings in this study.
‘I was so done in that I just recognized it very plainly, “You need to do something”’: Men’s narratives of struggle, distress and turning to meditation
Authors: Lomas Tim , Cartwright Tina , Edginton Trudi , Ridge Damien
Published: July 2012

Traditional masculinities can mean men are unable or unwilling to deal constructively with distress. However, researchers increasingly acknowledge that men and masculinities (including hegemonic styles) are diverse. Moreover, men can positively manage their well-being, although little research explores how they do so. Uniquely, our study sought to find men who report finding ways to care for themselves to examine narratives about how such self-care originated. We aimed to do this by exploring issues underpinning men’s journeys towards meditation, focusing on implications for well-being. In-depth interviews were conducted in 2009 with 30 meditators, selected using principles of maximum variation sampling, and analysed with a modified ‘constant comparison’ approach. Men’s journeys towards meditation were fraught with difficulties. Men described crossing a threshold from boyhood into ‘manhood’ where they encountered traditional forms of masculinity (e.g. stoicism), and most described subsequent strategies to disconnect from emotions. While men eventually found ways to engage more constructively with their emotions and well-being, this article explores the struggle and distress of their journeys.
Processing of gender and number agreement in late Spanish bilinguals
Authors: Sagarra Nuria , Herschensohn Julia
Published: July 2012

Drawing from Sagarra & Herschensohn (2010, 2011), we evaluate current approaches to grammatical representation and processing of L2 gender and number agreement in Spanish determiner phrases (DPs), some advocating incomplete acquisition and computation of L2 grammatical features and others claiming native-like representation and computation of new grammatical values. Testing Spanish monolinguals, beginning and intermediate L2 learners, we evaluate comprehension data with a moving window paradigm and a grammaticality judgment task to investigate whether late learners of ungendered L1s can gain native-like behavioral patterns of sensitivity to grammatical gender and number agreement violations. We also consider the additional factors of proficiency level (beginners vs. intermediates) and processing cost (animate vs. inanimate nouns; gender vs. number agreement). Moving window and grammaticality judgment data reveal that intermediates, but not beginners, show qualitatively similar reactions to monolinguals (gender and number concord/discord distinctions), confirming the importance of proficiency while suggesting native-like processing by L2 learners. They also show that both grammatical (gender, number) and semantic (animacy) features differentially impact concord processing for both natives and L2 learners, and that working memory plays a role in developing L2 processing skills.
Genetics of the renin-angiotensin system with respect to cardiac and blood pressure phenotypes in healthy newborn infants
Authors: Gorący Iwona , Dawid Grażyna , Łoniewska Beata , Gorący Jarosław , Ciechanowicz Andrzej
Published: July 2012

Introduction:

Left ventricular mass (LVM) is a strong predictor of various heart diseases. We examine the association between the G(-6)A AGT, I/D ACE, A1166C AGTR1, T(-344)C CYP 11β2, A538G MR and A10631G REN polymorphisms and LVM and blood pressure in newborn infants.

Material and methods:

The study included 211 healthy newborn infants. Two-dimensional M-mode echocardiography was used to assess LVM between days 3–4 after birth. Polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction - restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RLFP).

Results:

AGTR1 genotype was significantly associated with neonatal systolic blood pressure (≥90 percentile). LVM indexes (LVMIs) were tested for association with genotypes in multivariate analysis. The carriers of the A allele of the AGT polymorphism had significantly higher LVM/body length (BL) values when compared with newborn infants homozygous for the G allele ( padjusted=0.03). The higher LVM/BL values were seen in the carriers of the A alleles of the AGTR1 polymorphism ( padjusted=0.046). All examined indexes (LVM/body surface area (BSA), LVM/BL, LVM/bodyweight (BW)) were associated with CYP11B polymorphism. The newborn infants homozygous for the T allele had significantly higher values of LVM/BSA, LVM/BL, and LVB/BW compared to non-TT-homozygous neonates ( padjusted=0.003; padjusted=0.003; padjusted=0.004 respectively).

Conclusion:

The AGT, AGTR1, CYP11β polymorphisms are associated with increased LVMIs in newborns. This observation indicates that genetic factors may be modulating LVM at birth.
Nonparametric analysis of structural health monitoring data for identification and localization of changes: Concept, lab, and real-life studies
Authors: Catbas F Necati , Gokce Hasan B , Gul Mustafa
Published: July 2012

Structural health monitoring systems integrate novel experimental technologies, analytical methods, and information technologies for a number of objectives such as detecting structural changes and damage as well as assessing the condition, safety, and serviceability of the monitored structure. The objective of this article is to present a correlation-based methodology as an effective nonparametric data analysis approach for detecting and localizing structural changes using strain data under operational loading conditions. While several methods have been explored in the literature, the focus of this article is to explore a practical and cost-effective (in terms of sensor, data acquisition, and analysis) methodology to identify structural problems. The methodology presented here is based on tracking correlation coefficients between strain time histories at different locations. After discussing the background, the effectiveness of the methodology is first demonstrated on a laboratory test structure. A unique contribution of this study is the validation of the methodology on a real-life bridge, which was monitored before damage was induced, during the bridge was damaged, and after damage was repaired. It is shown that structural changes can be detected and located for both the laboratory test structure and the real-life bridge using the variations in the correlation matrices. Since the real-life bridge was monitored under different conditions, the effectiveness of the bridge repair is also presented in comparative fashion with respect to before damage conditions. Some of the critical issues such as signal processing, data length, and level of data separation for change detection are also discussed. The correlation-based data analysis methodology is computationally efficient and easy to use, especially for handling large amounts of monitoring data. The results show that this methodology has the potential to be easily applied by engineers to different kinds of civil infrastructure for condition monitoring and maintenance.
Process Evaluation of a Lifestyle Intervention to Prevent Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases in Primary Care
Authors: Lakerveld Jeroen , Bot Sandra , Chinapaw Mai , van Tulder Maurits , Kingo Lise , Nijpels Giel
Published: July 2012

Effective, cost-effective, safe, and feasible interventions to improve lifestyle behavior in at-risk populations are needed in primary care. In the Hoorn Prevention Study, the authors implemented a theory-based lifestyle intervention in which trained practice nurses used an innovative combination of motivational interviewing (MI) and problem-solving treatment (PST). This article presents the intervention’s reach, effectiveness in terms of process outcomes, adoption, and implementation. Recruitment strategy and participant flow were documented accurately. The effectiveness in terms of determinants of behavioral change was measured using a validated questionnaire. Questionnaires were also used to assess participant satisfaction and compliance, as well as practice nurses’ confidence in providing the intervention. Counseling sessions were tape recorded to assess MI, PST, and general counseling competence. The findings indicate that the recruitment strategy was adequate and resulted in a reasonably extensive reach of the target population. Practice nurses were competent and confident in their provision of MI and PST, and participant satisfaction was high. Nevertheless, the number of sessions attended was low, and almost no effects were seen on determinants of behavioral change. The authors conclude that implementing this type of intervention in primary care is feasible, but more is needed to effectively facilitate changes in determinants of lifestyle behavior in this population.
Evaluation of Field Triage Decision Scheme Educational Resources
Authors: Sarmiento Kelly , Eckstein Daniel , Zambon Allison
Published: July 2012

In an effort to encourage appropriate field triage procedures, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the American College of Surgeons–Committee on Trauma, convened the National Expert Panel on Field Triage to update the Field Triage Decision Scheme: The National Trauma Triage Protocol (Decision Scheme). In support of the Decision Scheme, CDC developed educational resources for emergency medical service (EMS) professionals, one of CDC’s first efforts to develop and broadly disseminate educational information for the EMS community. CDC wanted to systematically collect information from the EMS community on what worked and what did not with respect to these educational materials and which materials were of most use. An evaluation was conducted to obtain feedback from EMS professionals about the Decision Scheme and use of Decision Scheme educational materials. The evaluation included a survey and a series of focus groups. Findings indicate that a segment of the Decision Scheme’s intended audience is using the materials and learning from them, and they have had a positive influence on their triage practices. However, many of the individuals who participated in this research are not using the Decision Scheme and indicated that the materials have not affected their triage practices. Findings presented in this article can be used to inform development and distribution of additional Decision Scheme educational resources to ensure they reach a greater proportion of EMS professionals and to inform other education and dissemination efforts with the EMS community.
A Process Evaluation of a Social Cognitive Theory–Based Childhood Obesity Prevention Intervention
Authors: Branscum Paul , Sharma Manoj , Wang Lihshing Leigh , Wilson Bradley , Rojas-Guyler Liliana
Published: July 2012

Process evaluations are an often overlooked yet essential component of health promotion interventions. This study reports the results of a comprehensive process evaluation for the “Comics for Health” program, a childhood obesity prevention intervention implemented at 12 after-school programs. Qualitative and quantitative process data were collected using surveys, field notes, and open-item questionnaires, which assessed program fidelity, dose delivered, dose received, reach, recruitment, and context. Triangulation of methods was also employed to better understand how the program was implemented and received by the facilitator, staff members, and children in the program. Results indicated that program implementation had an almost perfect rate of fidelity with most lessons recording 100% tasks completed. Lessons were implemented in their intended order and lasted approximately 30 minutes as planned. After-school staff members reported that the program was well received by children, and this program should be replicated in the future. Attendance records showed that a majority of the children attended each lesson on the initial day of delivery (70.4%) and informal make-up lessons were implemented to compensate for the other children. Finally, several known sources of contamination were found such as past and concurrent exposure to similar health promotion interventions, which could potentially influence study outcomes. These findings will be used to help explain the results of this intervention and make recommendations for future intervention efforts.
Being Part of Something
Authors: Malone Ruth E. , McGruder Carol , Froelicher Erika Sivarajan , Yerger Valerie B.
Published: July 2012

Objectives. Calls for public health practices, including research, to better integrate social theories of power, agency, and social change suggest that increased reflexivity about both the process and outcomes of community engagement is warranted. Yet few community-based participatory research (CBPR) projects specifically report nonresearch outcomes of such projects. The authors analyzed “secondary outcomes” of Protecting the ’Hood Against Tobacco (PHAT), a CBPR project conducted in San Francisco, California. Methods. Interpretive analysis of quasi-ethnographic project documentation, including meeting minutes, field notes, retrospective observations, and interviews. Results. PHAT participation created “ripple effects,” encouraging healthier behaviors and public health promotion among community research partners, prompting academics to confront power asymmetries and recognize community knowledge, and widening social networks. Conclusions. CBPR benefits both communities and researchers beyond the findings of the research itself. More systematically capturing these effects, perhaps through wider use of ethnographic approaches, could help enhance understanding of CBPR’s true contributions.
Readiness for Smoke-Free Policy and Overall Strength of Tobacco Control in Rural Tobacco-Growing Communities
Authors: Hahn Ellen J. , Rayens Mary Kay , York Nancy
Published: July 2012

Rural, tobacco-growing areas are disproportionately affected by tobacco use, secondhand smoke, and weak policies. The study determined whether overall strength of Resources, Capacity, and Efforts in tobacco control predicts readiness for smoke-free policy in rural communities, controlling for county population size and pounds of tobacco produced. This was a correlational, cross-sectional analysis of data from key informants ( n = 148) and elected officials ( n = 83) from 30 rural counties who participated in telephone interviews examining smoke-free policy. Six dimensions of community readiness (knowledge, leadership, resources, community climate, existing smoke-free policies, and political climate) were identified and summed to assess overall readiness for smoke-free policy. General strength of overall Resources, Capacity and Efforts in tobacco control at the county level was measured. Readiness for smoke-free policy was lower in communities with higher smoking rates, higher tobacco production, and smaller population. Efforts related to general tobacco control (i.e., media advocacy, training, and technical assistance) predicted readiness for local smoke-free policy development (standardized β = .35, p = .05), controlling for county population size and pounds of tobacco produced. Given that small, rural tobacco-growing communities are least ready for smoke-free policy change, tailoring and testing culturally sensitive approaches that account for this tobacco-growing heritage are warranted.
Health Literacy Online
Authors: Hou Su-I
Published: July 2012

Health Literacy Online: A Guide to Writing and Designing Easy-to-Use Health Web Sites is a practical and well-written resource for public health and health communication professionals and web designers. This guide builds on the principles of web usability and adds to existing best practices by providing research-based strategies for writing and designing health websites especially for users with limited literacy and health literacy skills. This guide synthesizes years of lessons learned from Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion’s original research with hundreds of web users, experience with revising the healthfinder.gov , as well as strategies supported by the Research-Based Web Design and Usability Guidelines ( Usability.gov ). In the United States, roughly one third of adults have limited literacy skills, yet far more (as many as 90%) have limited health literacy skills, meaning they have trouble understanding complex health information. This how-to guide is timely and developed with the aim of creating easy-to-use health websites to reach as many web users as possible, especially those with limited literacy and health literacy skills.
Advocacy Evaluation
Authors: Devlin-Foltz David , Fagen Michael C. , Reed Ehren , Medina Robert , Neiger Brad L.
Published: July 2012

Devising, promoting, and implementing changes in policies and regulations are important components of population-level health promotion. Whether advocating for changes in school meal nutrition standards or restrictions on secondhand smoke, policy change can create environments conducive to healthier choices. Such policy changes often result from complex advocacy efforts that do not lend themselves to traditional evaluation approaches. In a challenging fiscal environment, allocating scarce resources to policy advocacy may be particularly difficult. A well-designed evaluation that moves beyond inventorying advocacy activities can help make the case for funding advocacy and policy change efforts. Although it is one thing to catalog meetings held, position papers drafted, and pamphlets distributed, it is quite another to demonstrate that these outputs resulted in useful policy change outcomes. This is where the emerging field of advocacy evaluation fits in by assessing (among other things) strategic learning, capacity building, and community organizing. Based on recent developments, this article highlights several challenges advocacy evaluators are currently facing and provides new resources for addressing them.
From Theory to Practice
Authors: Broekhuizen Karen , Althuizen Ellen , van Poppel Mireille N. M. , Donker Marianne , van Mechelen Willem
Published: July 2012

Background. Intervention fidelity is an increasingly important methodological concept in process evaluations. In this article, the authors investigated the intervention fidelity in a randomized controlled trial on excessive weight gain prevention in pregnancy. Method. A sample of 109 audiotaped counseling sessions, linked to 65 women in the intervention group of the New Life(style) trial, was drawn. The following criteria were quantitatively evaluated using a fidelity checklist: (a) reach, (b) dose, (c) adherence to study objectives, (d) adherence to underlying problem-solving treatment (PST) theory, and (e) counselor competence. Results. A total of 60.4% received all counseling sessions. The dose of intervention components was generally moderate (50.9% to 60.4%), and the dose of PST components was low (17.3%). Adherence to study objectives was moderate (64.2%) and adherence to PST theory was low (43.2%). The counselors sufficiently stimulated the participant to optimize lifestyle (54.2% of the sessions), provided positive feedback (50.5%), and left the initiative regarding problem solving to the participant (71%). One of the two counselors performed significantly better on all measured criteria ( p < .001). Conclusions. Intervention fidelity in the New Life(style) trial was generally low to moderate. In future interventions, it is recommended to put more emphasis on counselor recruitment, training, and intervention protocol contents. Fellow researchers are encouraged to embed a process evaluation into all study stages, taking into account all essential process elements, and to link process outcomes to more distal, health outcomes.
Flexible electromagnetic interference shields in S band region from textile materials
Authors: Unnikrishnan Savitha Kadencheri , S Vinayasree , Halliah Gurumallesh Prabu , MR Anantharaman
Published: July 2012

S band region of electromagnetic spectra is used in versatile applications as in multimedia and communication. Electromagnetic interference makes several electrical, economic, and biological adverse effects. Flexible electromagnetic interference shield from polyaniline-TiO2 hybrid coated cotton fabric was developed and shielding efficiency of coated fabric was calculated in S band region using cavity perturbation technique. The polyaniline-TiO2 hybrid coating was done by one-pot method involving in-situ polymerization. The shielding effectiveness due to reflection, absorption, and multiple reflections were estimated and compared for coated fabrics with different polyaniline: TiO2 ratios. The hybrid coated cotton fabrics had durable electrical conductivity and strength, with good electromagnetic interference shielding in S band region.
Multi-fiber needle-punched nonwoven composites: Effects of heat treatment on sound absorption performance
Authors: Yilmaz Nazire Deniz , Powell Nancy B , Banks-Lee Pamela , Michielsen Stephen
Published: July 2012

Nonwovens have been increasingly used in car interiors for noise reduction. Most of these nonwovens are subjected to thermal treatments to give the nonwovens their final three-dimensional forms. Therefore, it became crucial to investigate the effects of thermal treatment on sound absorption characteristics of nonwovens. In this study, the effects of the material and treatment parameters on airflow resistivity and normal-incidence sound absorption coefficient of thermally treated three-layered nonwoven composites have been studied. The material parameters included fiber size and porosity. The treatment factors included the temperature and duration. The thermally treated three-layered nonwoven composites are classified into three types based on the material content and fiber blend. Sandwich structures consisting of polylactide/hemp/polylactide and polypropylene/glassfiber/polypropylene layers were called LHL and PGP, respectively. The sample which consisted of three layers of an intimate blend of polypropylene-glassfiber was named as PGI. Both temperature and duration of thermal treatment have been found to affect air flow resistivity and sound absorption. An increase in air flow resistivity and a decrease in sound absorption have been detected with heat treatment. A similarity has been observed between the thermal behaviors of PGP and PGI, which included the same thermoplastic polymer fiber. Variation in air flow resistivity of sandwich structure nonwoven composites increased with the increase in temperature, which was not observed in the intimate blend ones. The air flow resistivity of heat-treated nonwovens followed a steeper trend compared to unheated nonwovens per change in material parameters. In terms of treatment parameters, the difference between the thermal treatment and the melting point of the thermoplastics constituent of the nonwoven composite was found to be a significant factor on sound absorption. This effect of treatment temperature on sound absorption changed with treatment duration. The sound absorptive characteristic of the nonwoven composites in terms of sound frequency underwent a change with thermal treatment due to the structural changes with exposure to high temperature.
Construction of drag force measuring system to characterize the hydrodynamics properties of swimsuit fabrics
Authors: Abasi Saeedeh , Nasrollahi Tahmineh , Aghajani Marzie , Tehran M Amani
Published: July 2012

In this study, a system was designed and constructed in order to measure the drag force acting on the swimmer simulator. This system must be able to obtain the drag force for a range of swimsuit fabrics to characterize the hydrodynamic properties of swimsuit fabric. In this system, a DC motor was used as the propelling unit; also a voltmeter and an ammeter were applied to measure the input power of motor. To find the relationship between input powers and drag force, calibration was done. The simulator was made from wood in two different sizes. The samples of fabrics were prepared from three kinds of weft knitted fabrics, which are common in production of swimsuits, and were knitted from polyamide6 (nylon), polyamide6-elastan (nylon-lycra) and polyester. The statistical analysis of results show the importance of fabric surface properties and swimsuit design on swimmer’s performance, so clothing engineering and technical clothing design can play a key role in sport engineering.
Thinking in Three Dimensions
Authors: Byrne-Jiménez Mónica , Orr Margaret Terry
Published: July 2012

Urban schools often experience rapid turnover among teachers and leaders. Yet, research and practice highlight the importance of sustained leadership over time as an integral component of school improvement. Successful leadership requires principals who operate in multiple dimensions at once, moving from individual capacity to group empowerment, to whole school improvement and back again. It also requires that principals be given time and support to hone these skills. In most urban schools, however, principals are left on their own and face increasing district and public scrutiny. This case highlights one principal who learned to distribute leadership through individual and organizational learning, and built systems to ensure continued improvement as he plans to transition out of the school after 11 years. How did his leadership evolve? The case uses an appreciative inquiry approach to explore the creation of community and organizational structures that lead to sustained school improvement.
Performance enhancement of bi-lateral lower-limb amputees in the latter phases of running events: an initial investigation
Authors: Noroozi Siamak , Sewell Philip , Ghaffar Abdul Rahman Abdul , Vinney John , Zhi Chao Ong , Dyer Bryce
Published: July 2012

Current methods of evaluating the performance of a runner using an energy return prosthesis often rely on a physiological methodology, making the differentiation between the contributions from the biological and the prosthetic elements of the below-knee amputee athlete difficult. In this paper a series of mass and composite foot systems were used to evaluate the effect that gravity, mass, stiffness and inertia have on the dynamic characteristics of a prosthesis. It is demonstrated that if the natural characteristics of a system are identified and synchronised with the physiological gait behaviour of a runner, performance enhancement can occur, resulting in a faster take off speed and in storing extra energy in the system that can later be recovered. Therefore, a bi-lateral amputee athlete with near symmetrical gait can recover the stored energy during the steady state or latter phases of a running event.
Current and emerging strategies for the management of imatinib-refractory advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Authors: Kee Damien , Zalcberg John R.
Published: July 2012

Since its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration in February 2002, the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, imatinib, has become the standard of care for patients with metastatic or unresectable KIT-positive gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Imatinib functions by blocking the adenosine triphosphate binding site of the constitutively activated mutant KIT or platelet-derived growth factor receptor α, effectively shutting down the oncogenic signal that drives up to 90% of these tumors. In doing so, it has transformed the management of a condition previously refractory to systemic treatments and established GIST as a model for the use of targeted therapies and oncogene addiction in solid tumors. However, while more than 80% of patients will receive clinical benefit from imatinib monotherapy, more than half will develop progressive disease by 2 years. In this article we review the mechanism and patterns of imatinib resistance in GIST; attempt to offer a practical schema for managing imatinib-refractory patients; and lastly, offer some insight as to future directions and emerging therapeutics for the management of this highly interesting and challenging disease.
The knowledge and attitudes of psychiatrists towards antipsychotic long-acting injections in Nigeria
Authors: James Bawo O. , Omoaregba Joyce O. , Okonoda Kingsley M. , Otefe Edebi U. , Patel Maxine X.
Published: July 2012

Background:

Antipsychotic long-acting injections (LAIs) reduce covert nonadherence with medication in the clinical management of psychotic disorders. However, they are variably utilised by clinicians, especially in the long term. Factors including poor knowledge, stigma and perceived coercion can all adversely influence LAI utilisation. Previous research has emanated almost exclusively from developed countries. This study explores the knowledge and attitudes of psychiatrists and trainees in Nigeria towards LAIs.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was undertaken among mental health professionals in Nigeria using a pre-existing questionnaire.

Results:

Participant psychiatrists ( n = 128) expressed positive attitudes towards LAIs. Their knowledge concerning LAIs and its side effects was fair. The participants reported that nearly half (41.7%) of their patients with a psychotic illness were on LAIs. Those who reported a high prescribing rate for LAIs (>40%) were more likely to endorse more positive ‘patient-centred attitudes’ ( p < 0.04). In contrast to previous reports, psychiatrists reported that patients were less likely to feel ashamed when on LAIs, though most endorsed the statement that force was required during LAI administration.

Conclusion:

The desirability of treatment by injections differs in Africa in comparison to Western cultures, possibly due to the increased potency that injections are perceived to have. This is perhaps evidenced by high rates reported for use of LAIs. Nigerian psychiatrists had positive attitudes to LAIs but their knowledge, particularly regarding side effects, was fair and needs to be improved. Providing information to patients prior to antipsychotic treatment may enhance informed consent in a country where medical paternalism is still relatively strong.