bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Shifting Balance of Adolescent Time Use
Authors: Zick Cathleen D.
Published: June 2009

In this study, time diary data from 1977 to 1978 and 2003 to 2005 are used to investigate time use in middle adolescence with the goals of ascertaining (a) changes in time use, (b) how socioeconomic and familial factors influence adolescent time allocation, and (c) the extent to which the mix of leisure undertaken by today’s adolescents reflect a choice set that favors positive developmental experiences. The results suggest that over the past few decades, adolescents have substantially reduced their paid employment time while increasing the time they spend in leisure. Adolescents’ declining real wage rates appear to have contributed to this shift. In 2003-2005, adolescents averaged more than 6 hours per day in leisure activities with approximately two thirds of their leisure time spent in passive activities and less than one third spent in leisure pursuits that have a high probability of promoting personal growth.
A particle-filtering approach for on-line fault diagnosis and failure prognosis
Authors: Orchard Marcos E. , Vachtsevanos George J.
Published: June 2009

This paper introduces an on-line particle-filtering (PF)-based framework for fault diagnosis and failure prognosis in non-linear, non-Gaussian systems. This framework considers the implementation of two autonomous modules. A fault detection and identification (FDI) module uses a hybrid state-space model of the plant and a PF algorithm to estimate the state probability density function (pdf) of the system and calculates the probability of a fault condition in real-time. Once the anomalous condition is detected, the available state pdf estimates are used as initial conditions in prognostic routines. The failure prognostic module, on the other hand, predicts the evolution in time of the fault indicator and computes the pdf of the remaining useful life (RUL) of the faulty subsystem, using a non-linear state-space model (with unknown time-varying parameters) and a PF algorithm that updates the current state estimate. The outcome of the prognosis module provides information about the precision and accuracy of long-term predictions, RUL expectations and 95% confidence intervals for the condition under study. Data from a seeded fault test for a UH-60 planetary gear plate are used to validate the proposed approach.
Fabrication and evaluation of hybrid silica/polymer optical fibre sensors for large strain measurement
Authors: Haiying Huang  , Majumdar Ayan , Cho Jae-Sung
Published: June 2009

Silica-based optical fibre sensors are widely used in structural health monitoring systems for strain and deflection measurement. One drawback of silica-based optical fibre sensors is their low strain toughness. In general, silica-based optical fibre sensors can only reliably measure strains up to 2%. Recently, polymer optical fibre sensors have been investigated for large strain measurement. Because of their high optical losses, the length of the polymer optical fibres is limited to 100 m. In this paper, we present a novel economical technique to fabricate hybrid silica/polymer optical fibre sensors that are capable of measuring large strain. First, stress analysis of a surface-mounted optical fibre sensor is performed to understand the effect of mechanical properties on the load distribution between the optical fibre and the host structure. Next, the procedure for fabricating a tapered polymer sensing element between two silica optical fibres is explained. The experimental set-up and the components used in the fabrication process are described in detail. Test results of the fabricated silica/polymer optical fibre strain sensor are presented.
Extrinsic curvature-based fault isolation for multi-input—multi-output systems with non-linear fault models
Authors: Subbarao Kamesh , Vemuri Arun T.
Published: June 2009

This paper presents an online fault isolation methodology for identifying faulty signals in a multiinput—multi-output dynamical system. It is hypothesized that faults in a dynamical system can be suitably represented via non-linear functions. The isolation scheme, which is implemented online, relies on adaptive non-linear estimates of these non-linear fault functions based on the system input—output data. The non-linear fault estimation is achieved using radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) architecture while the fault isolation is accomplished using extrinsic curvature of the learned RBFNN model. The proposed approach is implemented on an F-5A Freedom Fighter aircraft's lateral-directional model and the results are presented to illustrate the concept.
Comparison of prognostic algorithms for estimating remaining useful life of batteries
Authors: Saha Bhaskar , Goebel Kai , Christophersen Jon
Published: June 2009

The estimation of remaining useful life (RUL) of a faulty component is at the centre of system prognostics and health management. It gives operators a potent tool in decision making by quantifying how much time is left until functionality is lost. RUL prediction needs to contend with multiple sources of errors, like modelling inconsistencies, system noise and degraded sensor fidelity, which leads to unsatisfactory performance from classical techniques like autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and extended Kalman filtering (EKF). The Bayesian theory of uncertainty management provides a way to contain these problems. The relevance vector machine (RVM), the Bayesian treatment of the well known support vector machine (SVM), a kernel-based regression/classification technique, is used for model development. This model is incorporated into a particle filter (PF) framework, where statistical estimates of noise and anticipated operational conditions are used to provide estimates of RUL in the form of a probability density function (pdf). We present here a comparative study of the above-mentioned approaches on experimental data collected from Li-ion batteries. Batteries were chosen as an example of a complex system whose internal state variables are either inaccessible to sensors or hard to measure under operational conditions. In addition, battery performance is strongly influenced by ambient environmental and load conditions.
Condition-based maintenance using dynamic decisions by Petri nets and Dempster—Shafer theory: a matrix-based approach
Authors: Ballal P. , Lewis F.
Published: June 2009

This paper provides a novel method for job and resource dispatching for condition-based maintenance using free-choice Petri nets (PNs) and Dempster—Shafer (DS) evidence theory. In free-choice PNs (also called free-choice multi re-entrant flow-lines — FMRF), a choice exists for the tasks to be performed. Hence decisions have to be made in real time. In case of unreliable sensors in the system, there is uncertainty in decision making. This uncertainty is modelled in this paper using the DS theory of combination, which is used to decide which path to take in the event of choice decisions in the Petri net. The computations required in DS theory are difficult to perform because of the many required summations over set inclusions and intersections. Therefore, a new matrix formulation is given herein for efficiently combining evidence and finding belief, plausibility and other quantities in DS theory. This, coupled with a previously developed matrix formulation for PNs, makes it straightforward to implement the decision framework as a discrete event controller using computer software. Examples are given showing how to apply the matrix formulation for decision making in intelligent diagnostics.
Engine performance trending: practical insights
Authors: Mylaraswamy Dinkar , Olson Lewis , Nwadiogbu Emmanuel
Published: June 2009

A vehicle health usage monitoring system (HUMS) makes it possible to create an accurate picture of the current and expected condition of a propulsion engine. Gas turbine engines, the focus of this paper, convert fuel energy into useful mechanical work by following a well-defined thermodynamic cycle. In this paper, the authors present the principles of engine performance trending, describing them with examples. In engine performance trending, the underlying thermodynamic cycle is analysed using three key steps: cycle characterization using noisy sensor data, interpreting deviations with respect to engine faults and trending the deviations to assess future behaviour. In practical terms, engine performance trending exposes the correct analytic choice based on data and customer requirements. The first half of this paper describes a hierarchy of techniques for characterizing the underlying thermodynamic cycle, from simple energy balance to more complex aerodynamic analysis. Here, we discuss pattern recognition algorithms (eg, fuzzy logic and principal component analysis) for interpreting deviations and the principles of predictive trending. In the second half of the paper, we give examples to describe the practical customization needed to meet the requirements for HUMS. In our final remarks, we discuss open research issues, primarily in the area of constrained parameter estimation, as well as practical validation of engine performance trending. This paper is intended for HUMS practitioners in academia and industry.
Nutrition Intervention: A Strategy Against Systemic Inflammatory Syndrome
Authors: Oz Helieh S. , Chen Theresa S. , Neuman Manuela
Published: June 2009

Background:Sepsis and septic shock syndrome are the leading causes of death in critically ill patients. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) released by the colonic microorganisms may translocate across a compromised lumen, leading to upregulated reactive oxidative stress, inflammation, and sepsis. The authors examined an enteral formula high in cysteine (antioxidant precursor), ω‐3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and prebiotic fructooligosaccharides (FOS) against systemic inflammatory syndrome.Methods:Rats were allocated to (1) standard soy‐based diet high in cysteine and crude fiber and devoid of EPA‐DHA (CHOW); (2) whey‐peptide‐based liquid diet high in cysteine, EPA‐DHA, and FOS (CYSPUFA); or (3) casein‐based liquid isonitrogenous diet, low in cysteine and devoid of EPA‐DHA‐FOS (CASN). Liquid diets provided 25% and CHOW, 23% of calories as protein. After 6 days on diets, rats received an intraperitoneal injection of LPS or saline. Animals gained weight on their respective diets and lost weight after LPS administration. The CYSPUFA group lost considerably less weight (vs CASN or CHOW,P< .05). Inflammatory cytokines significantly increased by 4 hours and subsided 18 hours after assault. The CASN group showed elevated liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase release from damaged hepatocytes and developed severe hepatic pathology with low hematocrit. The CHOW group developed more severe hepatic lesions compared with those on liquid diets. Concentration of liver enzyme and pathology were improved in rats receiving CYSPUFA.Conclusions:Data indicate that CYSPUFA, a diet rich in EPA‐DHA‐FOS, protects against LPS‐induced systemic inflammatory responses and warrants clinical studies in critically ill patients.
Points to Consider on the Statistical Analysis of Rodent Cancer Bioassay Data When Incorporating Historical Control Data
Authors: Elmore Susan A. , Peddada Shyamal D.
Published: June 2009

Researchers routinely use historical control data (HCD) when analyzing rodent carcinogenicity data obtained in a particular study. Although the concurrent control group is considered to be the most relevant group to compare with the dose groups, the HCD provides a broader perspective to assist in understanding the significance of the current study. The HCD is used to provide information about the incidences of spontaneous tumors and malignant systemic disorders such as lymphoma and leukemia. This article presents some possible ways of incorporating the HCD when analyzing data from a rodent cancer bioassay. Specifically, exploratory (informal) and formal statistical procedures for analyzing such data are reviewed. The boxplot is presented as an exploratory tool that describes the current data in the context of the distribution of the HCD. It will also identify potential outliers that would not be otherwise be flagged using standard methods such as the mean, standard deviation, and range. The various options for the statistical analysis of HCD presented here do not necessarily represent standard practice.
Conversion of a Large, Urban High School to Small Schools
Authors: Nehring James , Lohmeier Jill H. , Colombo Michaela
Published: June 2009

This article reports findings from a study of the experiences of 11 school principals who are leading the conversion of a large, comprehensive, urban high school into six thematic small schools. Specifically, this study addresses the question, What do high school principals identify as the leadership challenges and opportunities embedded in the process of conversion of a large, comprehensive, urban high school into several thematic small schools?
On the origin of A-tents (pop-ups), sheet structures, and associated forms
Authors: Twidale C.R. , Bourne J.A.
Published: June 2009

A-tents are also known as pop-ups and by several other local names. They consist of raised slabs or plates of various thicknesses and origins. Laminae are caused by weathering, and spall plates or slabs may be caused in part by freeze-thaw acting on water held in pre-existing partings which are, however, like the sheet fractures that define the thicker sheet structures, probably of tectonic origin. A-tents are the result of the buckling of such laminae, plates and slabs. Again, tectonism in the form of compressive horizontal stress, appears the most likely and common causation, though decreases in lithostatic pressure consequent on unloading and, in particular cases, surficial expansion of plates caused by the intense heat of fires, may also contribute to rock failure and rupture. All A-tents are of Holocene age and are, therefore, neotectonic forms. Some have developed in living memory, and some are known to be developing from blisters. There is some evidence of continued dislocation along sheet fractures and of the transformation of blisters or arches into A-tents under the influence of continued lateral compression. This review demonstrates, therefore, that A-tents, sheet structures, and associated forms share a common heritage.
A review of the status of satellite remote sensing and image processing techniques for mapping natural hazards and disasters
Authors: Joyce Karen E. , Belliss Stella E. , Samsonov Sergey V. , McNeill Stephen J. , Glassey Phil J.
Published: June 2009

In the event of a natural disaster, remote sensing is a valuable source of spatial information and its utility has been proven on many occasions around the world. However, there are many different types of hazards experienced worldwide on an annual basis and their remote sensing solutions are equally varied. This paper addresses a number of data types and image processing techniques used to map and monitor earthquakes, faulting, volcanic activity, landslides, flooding, and wildfire, and the damages associated with each. Remote sensing is currently used operationally for some monitoring programs, though there are also difficulties associated with the rapid acquisition of data and provision of a robust product to emergency services as an end-user. The current status of remote sensing as a rapid-response data source is discussed, and some perspectives given on emerging airborne and satellite technologies.
Exploring the Use of Victim Surveys to Study Gang Crime
Authors: Rennison Callie Marie , Melde Chris
Published: June 2009

There has long been debate on the appropriate method to collect valid and reliable data on gang member involvement in crime and delinquency. In general, research in this area is based on data from self-report surveys, qualitative field work, and official reports which have well-documented limitations. Given these limitations, triangulation of methods is important to fully understand the unique contribution of gang members to the problem of crime and delinquency. This article proposes an additional data source to study gang violence and enhance triangulation: The National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS), which added a measure of the victim’s perception of the offender’s gang status in 1992. We highlight the advantages and disadvantages of using the NCVS for gang violence research and present a comparison of victimizations reportedly committed by gang and nongang perpetrators across situational, offender, and victim characteristics. Findings demonstrate promise for the use of victimization data in future gang research. Like Egley, Maxson, Miller, and Klein, we encourage the use of a ‘‘pluralistic approach’’ for the study of gangs and suggest that victimization data such as the NCVS be used to provide greater insight into gang crime.
Spiritual Support and African American Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Roff Lucinda Lee , Simon Cassandra E. , Nelson-Gardell Debra , Pleasants Heather M.
Published: June 2009

This qualitative study used data from interviews with 18 African American breast cancer survivors in the southeast regarding the women’s live experiences of spiritual support during the process of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Through a thematic content analysis, four primary sources of spiritual support were identified: God, members of religious communities, family members and friends, and health care professionals. Some participants reported negative experiences associated with the reactions of religious community members to their breast cancer. Those who received spiritual support from their health care providers reported welcoming such support.
Battered Women, Children, and the End of Abusive Relationships
Authors: Moe Angela M.
Published: June 2009

Much work has focused on the interpersonal dynamics of violent relationships, but less is known about the specific turning points that prompt women at least to try to end them. Using a feminist standpoint method and phenomenological-based analysis of in-depth interviews with mothers in a domestic violence shelter, this article focuses on the role of children in women’s decisions to leave abusive partners. It discusses arriving at the decision, the logistics involved in leaving and planning for the future, and it presents policy and advocacy-based recommendations that are aimed at addressing the social welfare of women and children.
Fear, Trust, and Negotiating Safety
Authors: Epperson Matthew W. , Platais Ingrida , Valera Pamela , Barbieri Raye , Gilbert Louisa , El-Bassel Nabila
Published: June 2009

Through in-depth interviews, this study examined the relational context of sexual HIV risk for 10 Black women aged 18—30 who were defendants in a community court setting. A qualitative data analysis identified themes of actual and feared intimate partner violence (IPV) and the expectations of demonstrating trust in a relationship as obstacles to negotiating the use of condoms. The findings speak to the broader structural factors and consequences of IPV and drug use. The article discusses the implications for HIV prevention for Black women who are involved in the criminal justice system.
‘‘Trying to Eat Healthy’’
Authors: Valera Pamela , Gallin Jill , Schuk Dawn , Davis Nakisha
Published: June 2009

Photovoice is a participatory action approach in which individuals use photographs to identify and address issues in their community. The objective of this study was to document the challenges that low-income women face in accessing healthy food in New York city. Data were drawn from focus-group interviews with nine low-income women aged 20—45. The findings indicated that low-income women who live in homeless shelters have less access to healthy food, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, than do other women. They speak of the broader issue of structural barriers to eating healthy that women in impoverished urban communities face. Even with these constraints, women are not powerless and instead find ways to exercise personal agency.
A Passionate Practice
Authors: Kalergis Karen Irene
Published: June 2009

This article draws practice expertise from three women who work with an underserved group of victims of human trafficking—teenagers who have been commercially sexually exploited. The women share what they have learned about working with these girls, the similarities between this field and the early days of work in domestic violence, and the importance of empowering these girls to be part of turning their lives around.
Health Behavior Risk Factors Across Age as Predictors of Cardiovascular Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Cardi Michelle , Munk Niki , Zanjani Faika , Kruger Tina , Schaie K. Warner , Willis Sherry L.
Published: June 2009

Objectives: The current study examines the prevalence of health risk behaviors and their cumulative effects on cardiovascular disease (CVD) among a sample of adults. Age cohort is also examined to determine the role of age in predicting CVD and risky health behaviors. Method: Medical records of a sample of adults from the Seattle Longitudinal Study categorized into one of four age-group cohorts were examined. Data regarding participants' health risk behaviors were examined individually and cumulatively for predicting later CVD diagnosis. Results: The prevalence of CVD increases with age, obesity, and risky medical checkups. Female risky sleepers are more likely to receive a CVD diagnosis than men who report risky sleep patterns ( p < .05). Discussion: A high risk of CVD appears to exist for adults across the life span, and several risky health behaviors also seem to place individuals more at risk for being diagnosed with CVD.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Disorders of Extreme Stress (DESNOS) Symptoms Following Prostitution and Childhood Abuse
Authors: Choi Hyunjung , Klein Carolin , Shin Min-Sup , Lee Hoon-Jin
Published: June 2009

With the participation of 46 prostituted women in Korea, this study investigates the relationship between prostitution experiences, a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA), and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and disorders of extreme stress not otherwise specified (DESNOS). Prostituted women showed higher levels of PTSD and DESNOS symptoms compared to a control group. Women who had experienced both CSA by a significant other and prostitution showed the highest levels of traumatic stress. However, posttraumatic reexperiencing and avoidance and identity, relational, and affect regulation problems were significant for prostitution experiences even when the effects of CSA were controlled.
The Bridge: An Authentic Literacy Assessment Strategy for Individualizing and Informing Practice With Young Children With Disabilities
Authors: Pierce Patsy L. , Summer Gail , O'deKirk Mark
Published: June 2009

_Brown Bear, Brown Bear, what do you see?_ chant the 3- and 4-year-olds gathered for the emergent reading story time. It is Wednesday and the book has been read at least once each day this week. Today, the children confidently joined in on the repetitive phrase. Mary, a 4-year-old with autism, did not verbally participate when the other children chimed in, even when cued by the teacher's pause and inviting gaze. Mary instead bobbed her head in time with the repetitive phrase, a response captured by Helen, a classroom assistant. Helen has sticky labels for notes and pen in hand to observe and record emergent literacy advances of all the children. Later that day, during the children's rest time, Helen and Roberta reviewed the day's notes and events to better shape their plans for the next day. Helen asked Roberta, the classroom teacher, _Did you see Mary as you read today? Mary was bobbing her head in rhythm with the repetitive line from Brown Bear, Brown Bear! I was not sure at first she really was doing it, but I watched each time the line was chanted by the children, and she really was bobbing in rhythm._ _That would be a nice step forward in her phonological awareness,_ said Roberta. _Helen, tomorrow sit with Mary and when we read Brown Bear again, gently take her hands in yours and pat them on her legs in rhythm with the repeated line. Let's try that the next several times we read the book and see what happens. Also, pay attention during circle time when we greet the children by clapping the syllables in their names. See if Mary is bobbing with the syllables as the other children clap. Maybe she's been showing us in her way that she hears the rhythms in language. Let's get her literacy portfolio and make sure we document this!_ Roberta retrieved Mary's literacy portfolio, turned to the section on phonological-phonemic awareness and placed Helen's note in the file: _Mary bobbed her head in rhythm each time that the repetitive phrase `Brown Bear, Brown Bear, what do you see?' was read during circle time, 3/23/07._ _You know, Helen, according to the Bridge Rating Scale, the next skill Mary should exhibit will be naming or identifying sounds in the environment._ Roberta thought about Mary's limited language and realized she will probably not be naming sounds very soon. Roberta suggested to Helen, _Let's make a very small, four-picture sound lotto game using her picture board and get Joey to play with her tomorrow. I've noticed Joey playing side by side with Mary at the sand table. Maybe, with our support, they would play an abbreviated listening game together._ Roberta added, _Mary's mom will be so pleased to hear about what you saw today. Make sure we pass on some suggestions for using repeated lines and listening games for home too, since Mary might be ready for plenty of sound and rhythm play._ _Maybe we could make a sound lotto board for Mary to use with home sounds too,_ suggested Helen.
The Manufacturing Procedure for Aerospace Secondary Sandwich Structure Panels
Authors: Crump D.A. , Dulieu-Barton J.M. , Savage J.
Published: June 2009

This study provides a detailed consideration of five manufacturing options that are used to produce aerospace sandwich panels used in secondary structure. The structural performance of each of the manufacturing options is considered along with a cost analysis. By considering the traditional preimpregnated (prepreg), autoclave-cured process, the sources of cost have been investigated, and it has been shown that by removing a portion of the large labor content and the autoclave cure, in favor of an oven-only cure, it would be possible to make significant savings. Monitoring the time to manufacture representative full-scale sandwich panels using the five manufacturing options has shown that by using a resin film infusion (RFI) oven cure, a 30% reduction in time to production is possible. To make an initial assessment of the comparative structural performance of laminates produced using the five manufacturing options, this article also presents results of material quality, in-plane and out-of-plane loading tests. The results of these tests show that the laminates produced using RFI are comparable in quality and performance to laminates produced using the current aerospace industry standard prepreg/autoclave process.
Predictive Modeling of the Impact Response of Thermoplastic Composite Sandwich Structures
Authors: Brooks R. , Brown K.A. , Warrior N.A. , Kulandaivel P.P.
Published: June 2009

This article reports on work toward developing a practical methodology for the predictive modeling of the performance of thermoplastic composite (TPC) sandwich structures under impact loading. Explicit finite element analysis methods, using LS-DYNA® software, are described. Details of extensive materials characterization tests and material model parameter calibration for both the composite skin and polymer foam core are included. The simulations of deformation response, damage and failure of the sandwich structures is validated against experimental tests of the indentation and three-point bending of TPC sandwich beams. Good agreement between simulations and experiments has been achieved for indentation loading up to high degrees of core crush. The same is true for a significant part of the bending response including failure prediction. However, it has been necessary to introduce a principal strain fracture criterion to account for core shear and skin—core debonding failures at higher strains. For full predictive capability in this region, further experimental work is needed to obtain the necessary strain rate-dependent fracture data for the core and interface.
Composite Laminated Plates: A 3D Natural Neighbor Radial Point Interpolation Method Approach
Authors: Dinis L.M.J.S. , Natal Jorge R.M. , Belinha J.
Published: June 2009

Based on the natural neighbor radial point interpolation method (NNRPIM), a 3D analysis of thick composite laminated plates is presented. The NNRPIM uses the natural neighbour concept in order to enforce nodal connectivity. Based on the Voronoï diagram small cells are created from the unstructured set of nodes discretizing the problem domain, the ‘influence-cells’, which are in fact influence domains entirely nodal dependent. The Delaunay triangles, the dual of the Voronoï cells, are used to create a node-dependent background mesh used in the numerical integration of the NNRPIM interpolation functions. The NNRPIM interpolation functions, used in the Galerkin weak form, are constructed in a process similar to that in the radial point interpolation method (RPIM) with some differences that modify the method performance. In the construction of the NNRPIM interpolation functions, no polynomial base is required and the used radial basis function (RBF) is the multiquadric RBF. The NNRPIM interpolation functions possess the delta Kronecker property, which simplifies the imposition of the natural and essential boundary conditions. In this work the 3D NNRPIM analysis is used to solve static and dynamic composite laminated plate problems. Thus, several benchmark examples are studied to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.
Democracy, Multitudo and the Third Kind of Knowledge in the Works of Spinoza
Authors: Del Lucchese Filippo
Published: June 2009

In Spinoza, what I call (adapting a phrase from J.-L. Nancy) the ‘Being Individual Multiple’ is the multitudo. Its form of life is Democracy, understood as the autonomous and conflictual organization of collective dynamics and not one form of government among others. Combining an original mode of argumentation with a critical discussion of opposing interpretations, I maintain that democracy is the translation into politics of the third and highest kind of knowledge in Spinoza, intuitive science. I argue moreover that the multitudo self-organized in a democracy has the capacity to experiment and express a different rationality with respect to the singular individual. Wisdom and democracy thus converge to give life to something unknown and original in western political modernity.
Philosophies of Political Myth, a Comparative Look Backwards
Authors: Bottici Chiara
Published: June 2009

The aim of this article is to recover a tradition of political philosophy which has been largely neglected and show its relevance for contemporary political thought. By arguing for the need of rethinking political myth today, the article reconstructs the philosophical reflections on this topic of Cassirer, Sorel and Spinoza, discussing both their strength and shortcomings. By adopting a comparative look backwards, it shows why they provide an ideal starting point for a philosophical approach to political myth which is aimed at both understanding what political myths are and how should they be evaluated.
Assemblages and the Multitude
Authors: Tampio Nicholas
Published: June 2009

The article enters a heated debate about the ideals and organization of the postmodern left. Hardt and Negri, two key figures in this debate, claim that their concept of the multitude — a revolutionary, proletarian body that organizes singularities — integrates the insights of Deleuze and Lenin. I argue, however, that Deleuze anticipated and resisted a Leninist appropriation of his political theory. This essay challenges the widely accepted assumption that Hardt and Negri carry forth Deleuze’s legacy. At the same time, the essay advocates Deleuze’s concept of left assemblages — protean political bodies working for freedom and equality — as a valuable but underappreciated contribution to the liberal-democratic tradition.
An Adapted Version of Intervention Mapping (AIM) Is a Tool for Conducting Community-Based Participatory Research
Authors: Belansky Elaine S. , Cutforth Nick , Chavez Robert A. , Waters Emily , Bartlett-Horch Kandiss
Published: June 2009

The field of public health is increasingly using community-based participatory research (CBPR) to address complex health problems such as childhood obesity. Despite the growing momentum and funding base for doing CBPR, little is known about how to undertake intervention planning and implementation in a community-academic partnership. An adapted version of Intervention Mapping (AIM) was created as a tool for university and elementary school partners to create school-level environment and policy changes aimed at increasing student physical activity and healthy eating. After AIM was completed, interviews were conducted with school partners. Findings indicate AIM is closely aligned to 7 of 9 CBPR principles. Examples include equitable involvement of all partners, co-learning, and balancing knowledge generation and community improvement. Shortcomings, lessons learned, and suggestions for strengthening the AIM process are described.
Using Action Research to Implement an Integrated Pediatric Asthma Case Management and eHealth Intervention for Low-Income Families
Authors: Wise Meg , Pulvermacher Alice , Shanovich Kathleen Kelly , Gustafson David H. , Sorkness Christine , Bhattacharya Abhik
Published: June 2009

Asthma case management and education programs improve pediatric asthma outcomes, but designing rigorous randomized controlled studies that accurately measure effects while encouraging parent participation is challenging. This is especially so for low-income African American families, who face significantly more severe asthma and social stress than their middle-class counterparts. Action research can help health education researchers negotiate between the elegant and complex designs favored by scientists with the real-life challenges of recruitment, implementation, and retention. This article discusses how a multidisciplinary team uses action research concepts to continuously adjust originally proposed protocols through the planning and implementation phases to encourage participation in a year-long randomized controlled trial of a program that combines telephone asthma case management and comprehensive online asthma education. As a result of these efforts, a higher proportion of low-income African American families are recruited into the study than originally proposed.
Healthy Option Preferences of Rural Restaurant Customers
Authors: Nothwehr Faryle , Snetselaar Linda , Dawson Jeffrey D. , Hradek Christine , Sepulveda Marisol
Published: June 2009

In preparation for an intervention study in three rural Iowa restaurants, 250 customers were surveyed regarding their interest in dietary change, perceptions of the restaurant, and interest in healthy options. Customers were ages 18 to 88, with a mean age of 52, and 53% were women. Most agreed that the restaurant offers healthy meals. Options customers stated they were most likely to order if available included meat that is baked or broiled, whole-wheat bread, fresh fruit or steamed vegetables, and regular salad dressing on the side. They were least interested in low-fat sour cream, low-fat salad dressing, low-fat milk, low-calorie dessert, and holding high-fat ingredients. Women were more likely to indicate interest in healthy options than were men. Interest in several options was also positively associated with age. Increasing the healthy options in restaurants may be especially effective in changing the dietary intake of women and older adults.
Strategies for Assessing Community Challenges and Strengths for Cancer Disparities Participatory Research and Outreach
Authors: Gwede Clement K. , Menard Janelle M. , Martinez-Tyson Dinorah , Lee Ji-Hyun , Vadaparampil Susan T. , Padhya Tapan A. , Meade Cathy D. ,   Tampa Bay Community Cancer Network Community Partners
Published: June 2009

Interventions involving community—academic partnerships must be driven by a participatory approach that is informed by a comprehensive understanding of the perspectives of communities or focus populations. Often research agendas of academics are different from perceived priority needs of community members. Successful and sustainable interventions are made possible with initial open dialogue among all collaborators so that roles are clearly defined and concerns are addressed. This article describes approaches used in the development of a participatory assessment of health and social issues as defined by community and academic partners, current findings, and lessons learned. The assessment is one initial activity of the Tampa Bay Community Cancer Network (TBCCN) to guide network directions through 2010. The TBCCN is one of 25 programs nationwide addressing cancer disparities through sustainable community-based participatory research, outreach, and screening activities.
A Social Marketing Approach to Building a Behavioral Intervention for Congenital Cytomegalovirus
Authors: Bate Sheri Lewis , Cannon Michael J.
Published: June 2009

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common congenital infection in the United States, causing permanent disabilities in more than 5,500 children born each year. In the absence of a vaccine, a promising means of prevention is through a behavioral intervention that educates women about CMV and promotes adherence to hygiene guidelines during pregnancy. Although effective behavioral interventions have been identified for other infectious diseases with similar transmission modes, current research has not yet identified an effective intervention for CMV. One way to gather evidence and identify key elements of a successful CMV intervention is through a social marketing approach. This article describes a five-step process for applying social marketing principles to the research and development, implementation, and evaluation of a CMV behavioral intervention.
Reflecting on the Experience of Injury at Virginia Tech
Authors: Brower Jay
Published: June 2009

In the aftermath of the killing at Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007, a vast amount of media coverage has been dedicated to the personal accounts of those affected by the disaster. Guided by the presumption that a subject’s account of what he or she observes and feels faithfully reflects reality, the uncritical elevation of experience naturalizes accounts of injury produced by the event itself. Framed by Joan W. Scott’s examination of the evidence of experience, I consider how foundational treatments of experience are used to narrate the disaster, effectively leading to its dehistoricization. In response, I propose a reading of the event that considers the question, “What does it means to be injured?” as a starting point for historicizing experience.
Cultural Studies and the Politics of Representation: Experience ↔ Subjectivity ↔ Research
Authors: Berry Keith , Warren John T.
Published: June 2009

This essay examines Joan W. Scott’s (1991) essay “The Evidence of Experience” in light of cultural studies scholarship that uses personal, experiential evidence, and/or innovative/critical methodologies. The authors argue that the situated, (inter)subjective, and complex nature of this inquiry conscientiously has brought to life Scott’s call for historicizing experience, rather than blindly using it as foundational, and enthusiastically continues doing so to date. In this way, these critical methods already seek to problematize and complicate experience, even as it is used to talk toward and/ or against cultural norms.
Beyond Experience
Authors: Pollock Della
Published: June 2009

In response to the essays by Brower, Adams, and Jones in this volume, this essay argues against the ocular-empiricism of eyewitness by which sight authenticates experience and experience authenticates the seeing-self. The logics that tie experiential fundamentalism to identity politics are inherently faulty and potentially regressive. They lock the “I” in a representational chain connecting that‘s what I saw; that‘s what happened; that‘s how things are; that‘s my/the story; that‘s who I am. Following Scott, the essay favors a critical/creative approach that immerses “experience“ in political intervention and self-making.
What Are The Top-Circulating Magazines in the United States Telling Older Adults About Cognitive Health?
Authors: Mathews Anna E. , Laditka Sarah B. , Laditka James N. , Friedman Daniela B.
Published: June 2009

There is growing evidence that healthy behaviors may promote cognitive health. The behaviors include physical activity, heart-healthy diets, and social engagement. Popular print media helps disseminate health information. This study examines the content focused on cognitive health in 5 top—circulating magazines marketed to older people in the United States. All pages (29 881 pages) of each magazine published in 2006 and 2007 were searched. There were 84 articles on cognitive health. Few were by health or science writers. Of the 58 articles on prevention, the contents focused primarily on diet and multiple behaviors, with less on physical activity or social engagement. Less than 20% provided resources to help readers obtain further information. Articles focused on physical activity, with information directing readers to credible resources, and by writers with health or science backgrounds, could enhance the quality of cognitive health communication in popular media.
Confusion of Peripheral Arterial Doppler Waveform Terminology
Authors: Scissons Robert , Comerota Anthony
Published: June 2009

Characterization of peripheral arterial waveforms is basic to the diagnosis of vascular disease. Surveys indicate inconsistent application of traditional waveform descriptors. This study reviews literature to identify areas of confusion. Publications were reviewed to determine whether triphasic, biphasic, and monophasic terms were defined; if biphasic was linked with diastolic flow reversal; whether pandiastolic flow was associated with biphasic or monophasic terminology; and whether waveform illustrations had a zero baseline. Ninety-four publications were reviewed. Triphasic and monophasic were defined in 81%, biphasic in 48%. Biphasic was classified with flow reversal in 38%. Pandiastolic flow was not addressed in 57% but associated with monophasic in 47% and biphasic in 5%. Twenty-one percent of the publications had an illustration without a zero-flow baseline. This review suggests a lack of consensus when classifying arterial blood flow with traditional waveform descriptors. Waveform characterization inconsistencies are undermining comprehension of Doppler principles and may lead to inappropriate testing. A multisocietal consensus panel should accept responsibility for resolving this issue.
Genetic evidence for a predominant role of PI3Kβ catalytic activity in ITAM- and integrin-mediated signaling in platelets
Authors: Canobbio Ilaria , Stefanini Lucia , Cipolla Lina , Ciraolo Elisa , Gruppi Cristian , Balduini Cesare , Hirsch Emilio , Torti Mauro
Published: June 2009

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) isoforms PI3Kβ and PI3Kγ are implicated in platelet adhesion, activation, and aggregation, but their relative contribution is still unclear or controversial. Here, we report the first comparative functional analysis of platelets from mice expressing a catalytically inactive form of PI3Kβ or PI3Kγ. We demonstrate that both isoforms were similarly required for maximal activation of the small GTPase Rap1b and for complete platelet aggregation upon stimulation of G protein–coupled receptors for adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP) or U46619. Their contribution to these events, however, was largely redundant and dispensable. However, PI3Kβ, but not PI3Kγ, enzymatic activity was absolutely required for Akt phosphorylation, Rap1 activation, and platelet aggregation downstream of the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM)–bearing receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI). Moreover, PI3Kβ was a major essential regulator of platelet adhesion to fibrinogen and of integrin αIIbβ3-mediated spreading. These results provide genetic evidence for a crucial and selective role of PI3Kβ in signaling through GPVI and integrin αIIbβ3.
Pretargeting CD45 enhances the selective delivery of radiation to hematolymphoid tissues in nonhuman primates
Authors: Green Damian J. , Pagel John M. , Nemecek Eneida R. , Lin Yukang , Kenoyer Aimee , Pantelias Anastasia , Hamlin Donald K. , Wilbur D. Scott , Fisher Darrell R. , Rajendran Joseph G. , Gopal Ajay K. , Park Steven I. , Press Oliver W.
Published: June 2009

Pretargeted radioimmunotherapy (PRIT) is designed to enhance the directed delivery of radionuclides to malignant cells. Through a series of studies in 19 nonhuman primates (Macaca fascicularis), the potential therapeutic advantage of anti-CD45 PRIT was evaluated. Anti-CD45 PRIT demonstrated a significant improvement in target-to-normal organ ratios of absorbed radiation compared with directly radiolabeled bivalent antibody (conventional radioimmunotherapy [RIT]). Radio-DOTA-biotin administered 48 hours after anti-CD45 streptavidin fusion protein (FP) [BC8 (scFv)4SA] produced markedly lower concentrations of radiation in nontarget tissues compared with conventional RIT. PRIT generated superior target:normal organ ratios in the blood, lung, and liver (10.3:1, 18.9:1, and 9.9:1, respectively) compared with the conventional RIT controls (2.6:1, 6.4:1, and 2.9:1, respectively). The FP demonstrated superior retention in target tissues relative to comparable directly radiolabeled bivalent anti-CD45 RIT. The time point of administration of the second step radiolabeled ligand (radio-DOTA-biotin) significantly impacted the biodistribution of radioactivity in target tissues. Rapid clearance of the FP from the circulation rendered unnecessary the addition of a synthetic clearing agent in this model. These results support proceeding to anti-CD45 PRIT clinical trials for patients with both leukemia and lymphoma.
Complete remission in multiple myeloma examined as time-dependent variable in terms of both onset and duration in Total Therapy protocols
Authors: Hoering Antje , Crowley John , Shaughnessy John D , Hollmig Klaus , Alsayed Yazan , Szymonifka Jackie , Waheed Sarah , Nair Bijay , van Rhee Frits , Anaissie Elias , Barlogie Bart
Published: June 2009

Landmark analyses are used to investigate the importance for survival of achieving complete response (CR), an important initial goal of myeloma therapy. With median times to CR in Total Therapy (TT) trials of approximately 1 year, this approach excludes a sizeable fraction of patients dying before such a landmark. To permit inclusion of all trial participants, we investigated the prognostic implications of both onset and duration of CR as time-dependent variables. Superseding the adverse effects of cytogenetic abnormalities and other standard prognostic parameters, both failure to achieve CR (non-CR) and, especially, loss of CR (los-CR) were independently associated with inferior survival in TT1, TT2, and TT3 protocols. In the context of gene array–defined risk, available in TT2 and TT3 subsets, both los-CR and non-CR terms were retained in the survival model as dominant adverse variables, stressing the prognostic importance of sustaining CR status, especially in high-risk disease.