bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Religious Diversity and the Forma1'Ion of Closed Cultural Systems, or When Does Religion Turn Bad?
Authors: Loubser J.A. BOBBY
Published: June 2008

This programmatic article investigates a single aspect of culture that regulates religious expression and the construction of identity. A brief overviem of four types of religio found in South Africa serves to illustrate the significant role of the media of communication in religious expression. Indigenous traditional religions operate within a pure oral culture, the Ibandla Amanazeretha of Isaiah Shembe operates within a 're-discovered' oral culture and Islam has its roots in an oral-manuscript culture, while conventional Protestantism has the heritage of a religion that operates within the culture of the printed media. The article finally considers the question of how a better understanding of religious culture can help to prevent religion from developing into a hegerreonic ideology. The article contributes to interdisciplinary debate.
The Many Voices of Islam
Authors: Dangor Suleman
Published: June 2008

This article traces the political, conflict in early Islam that led to the formation of the first theological sects, emergence of philosophical schools resulting from the translation of Greek writings, and development of the mystical tradition in response to the formalism of dogmatic theology. It analyse.s the social and political factors that contributed to the rich diversity of thought that permeated Islamic culture and society. Finally, it attempts to identify the major current debates among Muslim scholars ranging from the ultra-traditional to the ultra-secular.
An Historical Perspective on the Interplay of Christian Thought and Business Ethics
Authors: Bay Darlene , McKeage Kim , McKeage Jeffrey
Published: June 2008

To provide effective guidance for business decisions, a set of ethical principles must be stable over time, rather than responding to changes in the business environment for expediency sake. This article examines the ability of religious principles to maintain such stability by reviewing the historical relationship between commerce and Christianity, beginning with early Christianity and concluding with the Enlightenment.The changes in five constructs are examined: ownership of land, acquisition of wealth, attitude toward work, charging of interest and acceptability of trade. For each construct, the attitude evidenced in early Christianity was, at least to some degree, inimical to business as we view it today. That perspective changed over time, with the practice becoming at first acceptable and later even admired. The authors conclude that ethical principles based on referents from outside business are ineffective as a check on the undesirable effects of business on society.
Static and Low Velocity Impact Behavior of Composite Sandwich Panels with an Aluminum Foam Core
Authors: Reyes German
Published: June 2008

The static and low velocity impact response of aluminum foam based sandwich structures manufactured using thermoplastic composite skins has been studied. The three-point bend (3PB) test geometry was used to evaluate the static properties of the sandwich structures. An examination of the quasi-statically tested specimens revealed failure modes such as indentation, core yielding, and face wrinkling. The low velocity impact behavior of the sandwich systems was investigated using an instrumented dropping weight impact tower and modeled using an energy balance approach. Experimental results revealed that these systems exhibited excellent energy absorbing characteristics under dynamic loading conditions. Furthermore, it has been shown that a simple energy balance model based on the dissipation of energy during the impact event can be used to successfully model the low velocity impact response of the composite reinforced sandwich structures. A breakdown of the energy dissipation revealed that thermoplastic composite reinforced aluminum foam sandwich structures absorb much of the impact energy due to the bending and contact effects.
An Investigation of the Effect of SiC Reinforcement Coating on the Wettability of Al/SiC System
Authors: Tekmen C. , Saday F. , Cocen U. , Ljungberg L.Y.
Published: June 2008

In this study, the wetting behavior of oxide and metallic coated SiC substrate with Al—Si—Mg alloy has been investigated. SiC substrate and particles were coated with SiO2, TiO2, and metallic Ni by using thermo-chemical treatment, sol-gel and electroless coating techniques, respectively. Also, the effect of doping elements (Ni, Cu and Fe in TiO2 coating) on the wettability has been investigated. Coatings were characterized by SEM, EDS, XRD, and by means of surface roughness. Contact angle results demonstrate that metallic Ni coating significantly improves the wettability. However, doping elements did not alter the results due to their detrimental effect on surface roughness.
Family Structure and Children's Health and Behavior
Authors: Ming Wen
Published: June 2008

Using data from the 1999 National Survey of America's Families, this research investigates the association and pathways between family structure and child well-being among children age 6 to 17. Three indicators of child well-being are examined: parent-rated health, limiting health conditions, and child behavior. Results show that both stepfamilies and intact families are advantageous relative to single-parent families. Family socioeconomic status (SES) and social capital are important factors of child well-being and help explain family structure effects. Family SES seems to have a stronger mediating effect than social capital. However, after simultaneously modeling these hypothesized mediators, significant differences in aspects of child well-being across family types persist in most cases. Findings support the idea that differences in child well-being across family types are considerably but not entirely accounted for by family SES, parental participation in religious services, parent–child relationship, and child engagement in extracurricular activities.
Contemporary Processes of Transnationalization and Globalization
Authors: Hofmeister Heather , Breitenstein André Pascal
Published: June 2008

This opening article to this special issue on transnationalization and globalization first describes how transnationalization is different from globalization. It clarifies recent debates regarding the processes of transnationalization and locates the authors of this issue within these frameworks. In the process, this article and the special issue help unravel the dynamics of the complex term and phenomenon `transnationalization' and point to directions for fruitful future research.
Switching Power: Rupert Murdoch and the Global Business of Media Politics
Authors: Arsenault Amelia , Castells Manuel
Published: June 2008

This article proposes a hypothesis on the nature of power in the network society, the social structure of the Information Age. It argues that the ability to control connection points between different networks (e.g. business, media and economic networks) is a critical source of power in contemporary society. It then tests this hypothesis through a case study of Rupert Murdoch, CEO of NewsCorp. The operational dynamics of Rupert Murdoch and NewsCorp are examined in order to illustrate how corporate media actors negotiate the power dynamics of the network society to serve their overarching business goals. It identifies key strategies used by these actors to penetrate new markets and expand audience share including: political brokering, leveraging public opinion, instituting sensationalist news formulas, customizing media content and diversifying and adapting media holdings in the face of technological and regulatory changes.
Foreign Direct Investment and International Migration
Authors: Sanderson Matthew R. , Kentor Jeffrey
Published: June 2008

This study explores the impact of macro-level processes of the global economy on international migration. The authors utilize a cross-national panel regression analysis to examine the effect of foreign direct investment on the level of emigration from 25 less-developed countries between 1985 and 2000. The findings indicate that the stock of foreign direct investment increases net emigration over time, while trade integration lessens these movements. The level of economic development exerts no independent effect on out-migration once other factors are controlled. The results are discussed in the context of contemporary development and migration theories.
Changes in spastic muscle tone increase in patients with spinal cord injury using functional electrical stimulation and passive leg movements
Authors: Krause Phillip , Szecsi Johann , Straube Andreas
Published: June 2008

Objective: Comparison of cycling interventions to reduce spastic muscle tone increase in patients with spinal cord injury.

Setting: Neuroprosthetic outpatient clinic in a university hospital.

Methods: Five patients with spinal cord injury took part in a crossover study in which the lower limbs (1) were stimulated by functional neuromuscular electrical stimulation (FES) to induce leg cycling movements and (2) were passively moved by an ergometer machine. Patients sat in a comfortable chair fastened to the ergometer while FES was done to induce leg cycling (active session). During the passive leg movement session the ergometer moved their legs for the same period of time at the same velocity and frequency.

Main outcome measures: The change in spastic muscle tone increase before and after each training session was tested with the modified Ashworth Scale and the pendulum test of spasticity (relaxation index and peak velocity).

Results: The averaged data of the relaxation index increased after FES by about 68%. Compared with the slight increase after the passive movement training of 12%, this is statistically significant ( P = 0.01). Peak velocity increased after FES by around 50%, while it was nearly unchanged after the passive intervention (1%); this is also significant ( P = 0.01). This was similar with the peak velocity and the modified Ashworth Scale.

Conclusion: The study presents further interesting aspects of the usefulness of FES in patients with spinal cord injury to reduce spastic muscle tone.
Sense of coherence as well as social support and network as perceived by patients with a suspected or manifest myocardial infarction: a short-term follow-up study
Authors: Baigi Amir , Hildingh Cathrine , Virdhall Helen , Fridlund Bengt
Published: June 2008

Objective: To compare sense of coherence as well as social support and network as perceived by ischaemic heart disease patients at baseline and two weeks post-discharge in terms of age, sex, educational and marital status.

Design: Multicentre study with a prospective short-term follow-up design.

Setting: A university hospital, a central hospital and a district hospital in southern Sweden.

Subjects: Consecutive sample of 246 patients with a suspect or manifest myocardial infarction.

Main measures: The Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS-R), the Medical Outcome Study (MOS) Social Support Survey and the Sense of Coherence Scale were included in a self-administered questionnaire and answered twice, together with sociodemographic variables.

Results: Bivariate analyses indicated changes in social support (practical support increased in men and decreased in women; both P= 0.003) and social network (family network increased among >65 year olds; P= 0.001, men; P= 0.013, and women; P= 0.033, those with a low; P=0.017, and intermediate; P= 0.033, educational level, as well as those cohabiting; P= 0.0001), but did not reveal any difference in sense of coherence.

Conclusions: Sociodemographic variables have no influence on sense of coherence but do affect social support (i.e. practical support and social network, family). Ischaemic heart disease patients' short stay in hospital implies that the network outside the hospital has to assume responsibility, but at the same time it is important for health care professionals to have sufficient knowledge to be able to support the specific needs of patients and their family members.
A controlled clinical trial on the effects of motor intervention on balance and cognition in institutionalized elderly patients with dementia
Authors: Christofoletti Gustavo , Oliani Merlyn Mércia , Gobbi Sebastião , Stella Florindo , Bucken Gobbi Lilian Teresa , Renato Canineu Paulo
Published: June 2008

Purpose: To analyse the effects of two interventions on the cognition and balance of institutionalized elderly people with mixed dementia.

Methods: Fifty-four participants were allocated into three groups. Group 1 was assisted by an interdisciplinary programme comprising physiotherapy, occupational therapy and physical education. A physiotherapist alone carried out the intervention in group 2. Group 3 was considered as control. Assessors were blinded to guarantee the absence of bias. Cognitive functions were analysed with the Mini-Mental State Examination and the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery. Balance was assessed with the Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Get-Up-and-Go Test. Multiple analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to test possible main effects of the interventions.

Results: The results showed benefits on the balance of subjects in both groups 1 ( F=3.9, P<0.05) and 2 ( F=3.1, P<0.05), compared with group 3. MANOVA did not indicate benefits on the cognitive functions between groups 1 and 3 ( F=1.1, P>0.05) and groups 2 and 3 ( F=1.6, P>0.05). However, univariate analysis indicated some benefits of the interdisciplinary intervention on two specific domains measured by the Brief Cognitive Screening Battery ( F=26.5, P<0.05; F=4.4, P<0.05).

Conclusion: Six months of multidisciplinary or physiotherapeutic intervention were able to improve a person's balance. Although global cognition did not improve through treatment, when the intervention was carried out on a multidisciplinary basis we observed an attenuation in the decline of global cognition on two specific cognitive domains. Exercises applied in different contexts may have positive outcomes for people with dementia.
An alternative approach to treating lateral epicondylitis. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded study
Authors: Reza Nourbakhsh Mohammad , Fearon Frank J
Published: June 2008

Objective: To investigate the effect of noxious level electrical stimulation on pain, grip strength and functional abilities in subjects with chronic lateral epicondylitis.

Design: Randomized, placebo-control, double-blinded study.

Setting: Physical Therapy Department, North Georgia College and State University.

Subjects: Eighteen subjects with chronic lateral epicondylitis between the ages of 24 and 72 years participated in this study. Subjects were randomly assigned into treatment or placebo groups.

Interventions: Subjects received six sessions of low-frequency electrical stimulation over the palpated tender points. The intensity of electrical stimulation was set at 0 in the placebo group.

Main measurements: Grip strength, functional status, pain intensity and limited activity due to pain were assessed before and after treatment. Six-month follow-up data were collected in treatment group only.

Results: Both clinically and statistically significant improvements in average grip strength were found (treatment group: 28% increase; placebo group: 2.5% decrease; P=0.04), functional activity (treatment group: 110% increase; placebo group: 22% increase; P= 0.003), pain intensity (treatment group: 3.1 point decrease; placebo group: 0.2 point increase; P=0.01) and activity limitation due to pain (treatment group: 4.1 points increase; placebo group: 1.9 point decrease; P= 0.003) between the treatment and placebo groups. Follow-up data showed that 100% of subjects maintained the improved function, and 83% remained pain-free for at least six months post treatment.

Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that symptoms of chronic lateral epicondylitis could be effectively treated by noxious level low-frequency electrical stimulation.
Resistance-based, reciprocal upper and lower limb locomotor training in chronic stroke: a randomized, controlled crossover study
Authors: Page Stephen J , Levine Peter , Teepen Jennah , Hartman Eric C
Published: June 2008

Objective: To determine efficacy of a bilateral reciprocal training regimen on affected leg impairment and dynamic balance.

Design: Randomized, controlled, single-blinded crossover study.

Setting: Outpatient rehabilitation hospital.

Participants: Seven patients who experienced stroke >1 year prior to study entry exhibiting affected leg weakness.

Intervention: Subjects were randomly assigned to receive both of the following in a randomized, sequential order: (a) a resistance-based, reciprocal, affected leg locomotor training protocol using the NuStep apparatus ( n = 4) and (b) a home exercise programme (HEP) consisting of self-supervised practice with fractionated joint movements of the lower limb. Each phase of the intervention was performed for 30 minutes each session, three days a week, and conducted over an eight-week period.

Main outcome measures: Outcomes were evaluated by a blinded rater using the lower extremity scale of the Fugl-Meyer and the Berg Balance Scale.

Results: After HEP participation, subjects showed nominal or no changes on any of the outcome measures. After NuStep participation, patients in both treatment groups showed impairment reductions as shown by the Fugl-Meyer (+4.3; +2.2), and increased balance as shown by the Berg Balance Scale (+4.0; +4.0). These trends were exhibited regardless of group assignment.

Conclusion: Impairment reductions and balance gains may be achieved using a resistance-based, reciprocal upper and lower limb locomotor training protocol.
Effects of the atypical stimulant modafinil on a brief gambling episode in pathological gamblers with high vs. low impulsivity
Authors: Zack M , Poulos CX
Published: June 2008

Abstract

Pathological gambling (PG) is a serious psychiatric disorder afflicting 1-3% of the general population. Experimental evidence indicates shared neurochemical substrates for PG and psychostimulant addiction. Impulsivity characterizes one key subtype of PG. Therefore, medications that ameliorate psychostimulant addiction and impulsive syndromes might also benefit impulsive PG subjects. The atypical stimulant, modafinil reduces cocaine abuse and impulsivity in patients with ADHD. The present study sought to determine if modafinil (200 mg) would reduce the reinforcing effects of slot machine gambling in PG subjects, and if this effect was stronger in high (H-I) vs. low (L-I) impulsivity subjects ( N = 20). A placebo-controlled, double-blind, counterbalanced, repeated measures design was employed. Apart from bet size, which declined uniformly in both groups under drug, modafinil had bi-directional effects in the two groups. In H-I subjects, the drug decreased desire to gamble, salience of Gambling words, disinhibition and risky decision-making. In L-I subjects, modafinil increased scores on these indices. Modafinil also differentially affected blood pressure response to the game in the two groups. These findings for modafinil appear to fit well with a growing literature demonstrating bi-directional effects of D2 agonists as a function of trait impulsivity. Impulsivity could critically moderate medication response in PG.
Antidepressant-like effects of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists, but not agonists, in the mouse forced swim and mouse tail suspension tests
Authors: Andreasen JT , Olsen GM , Wiborg O , Redrobe JP
Published: June 2008

Abstract

Current literature suggests involvement of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in major depression. However, it is controversial whether the antidepressant-like effect of nAChR modulation is induced by activation, desensitization or inhibition of central nAChRs. In addition, the specific nAChR subtype/s involved remains unknown. In this study, we systematically compared the effects of non-selective and selective nicotinic agonists and antagonists in two different tests for antidepressant effects in mice: the tail suspension test and the forced swim test. Compounds: nicotine, RJR-2403 (α4β2-selective agonist), PNU-282987 (α7-selective agonist), mecamylamine (non-selective antagonist), dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE; α4β2-selective antagonist), methyllycaconitine (MLA; α7-selective antagonist) and hexamethonium (non-brain-penetrant non-selective antagonist). All compounds were tested in a locomotor activity paradigm to rule out non-specific stimulant effects. The data show that blockade of nAChRs with mecamylamine, or selective antagonism of α4β2 or α7 nAChRs with DHβE or MLA, respectively, has antidepressant-like effects. These effects were not confounded by motor stimulation. Hexamethonium did not show antidepressant-like activity, supporting the involvement of central nAChRs. At the dose levels tested, none of the nAChR agonists displayed antidepressant-like profiles. In conclusion, antagonism of central α4β2 and/or α7 nAChRs induced antidepressant-like effects in mice. A strategy involving antagonism of central nAChRs could potentially lead to the development of novel antidepressant therapeutics.
Depot and oral antipsychotics: patient preferences and attitudes are not the same thing
Authors: Patel MX , De Zoysa N , Bernadt M , David A
Published: June 2008

Abstract

Some clinicians believe that antipsychotic depot injections are unacceptable to patients. This cross-sectional study investigated patients’ attitudes regarding antipsychotics, and included within-participant comparisons. Two hundred and twenty-two out-patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder completed the Drug Attitude Inventory (DAI-10), scales on insight, side effects and treatment preferences. Formulation preference was associated with current medication formulation: depots were preferred by 43% (33/76) on depot vs 6% (8/146) on orals ( P < 0.001). Attitudes (DAI scores) regarding current formulation were influenced by illness duration, extrapyramidal symptoms and insight but not by formulation (depot vs oral). For those with experience of both formulations, participants currently on tablets scored depots less favourably than oral (4.27 vs 6.89, P < 0.001); those on depot did not differentiate. When voluntary patients on maintenance antipsychotics are asked about their attitudes to their current medication, those on depot respond similarly to those on oral. However, when asked to state a preference for formulation (depot vs oral), patients tend to favour their current formulation. Whatever leads some to switch from depot to oral, leaves a lasting negative impression of the depot and this may limit uptake of newer depots.
A 60-year-old woman with agitation and psychosis following ingestion of dextromethorphan and opioid analgesics
Authors: Jamison SC , Vasudeva S.
Published: June 2008

A patient presented with agitation, paranoia, and psychosis following ingestion of dextromethorphan, propoxyphene, and hydrocodone, a previously unreported combination. Symptoms resolved with antipsychotics and cessation of offending drugs. The pharmacodynamics of dextromethorphan and the opioids, including drug interactions are discussed, and several potential mechanisms for the production of the patient’s symptoms are proposed.
Reduced cooperativeness and reward-dependence in depression with above-normal plasma vasopressin concentration
Authors: Goekoop JG , de Winter RFP , Wolterbeek R. , Spinhoven P. , Zitman FG , Wiegant VM
Published: June 2008

The neuropeptide vasopressin is centrally involved in the regulation of social behaviour and response to stress. We previously found support for a subcategory of depression defined by above-normal plasma vasopressin (AVP) concentration. This subcategory is validated by a positive family history of depression and correlating plasma AVP and cortisol concentrations. The data support the validity of above-normal plasma AVP concentration as a genetically determined biological marker for a subcategory of depression. The aim of the present study was to test whether above-normal plasma AVP concentration in depression is related to personality characteristics reflecting a specific social behaviour style. The data of 78 patients from a previously investigated sample were reanalysed. Fifty-eight patients were available after 2 years, 15 of whom with initially above-normal plasma AVP. The dimensions of the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) were scored, with particular focus on the dimensions of Cooperativeness (CO) and Reward-dependence (RD). Normative subjects and other depressed subjects were used as controls. After full remission, patients with initially above-normal AVP had low CO compared with normal and patient controls. During depression, these patients had both low CO and low RD compared with normal controls and low RD compared with patient controls. Low CO is a presumably premorbid trait and reduced RD a state-dependent characteristic in depression with above-normal plasma AVP. The low CO further supports the validity of above-normal plasma AVP concentration as a genetically determined biological marker for a subcategory of depression.
Duloxetine for major depressive episodes in the course of psychotic disorders: an observational clinical trial
Authors: Englisch S. , Knopf U. , Scharnholz B. , Kuwilsky A. , Deuschle M. , Zink M.
Published: June 2008

Patients with psychotic disorders often suffer from intercurrent major depressive episodes (MDE). Case reports suggested successful antidepressive treatment with duloxetine, a selective dual reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine. We initiated this open prospective clinical trial to evaluate efficacy, safety and tolerability of this approach. Patients with a psychotic lifetime diagnosis suffering from mildly severe MDE were treated with duloxetine over a period of 6 weeks. We evaluated effects on mood, monitored the psychotic psychopathology and assessed side effects, basal clinical and pharmacological parameters. Twenty patients were included and experienced a significant improvement of their MDE during the observation period (Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia and Hamilton Depression Scale). Psychotic positive symptoms remained stably absent, while negative syndrome and global psychopathology considerably improved (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale). In general, the treatment was well tolerated, serum prolactin levels stayed unchanged, but pharmacokinetic interactions with a number of antipsychotic agents were observed. This open prospective evaluation showed antidepressive efficacy of duloxetine in patients with co-morbid psychotic disorders. With regard to the psychotic disorder, the treatment appears to be safe and well tolerable. Further investigations should involve a randomized control group.
A Governance-Structure Approach to Voluntary Organizations
Authors: Enjolras Bernard
Published: June 2008

This article develops a governance-structure theoretical understanding of voluntary organizations. Voluntary organizations are seen as governance structures reinforcing the norm of (generalized or balanced) reciprocity, making possible the pooling of resources based on the reciprocity principle. Voluntary organizations’ governance structure presents some specific features in terms of formal ends, ownership, residual claims, decision-making procedures, accountability, checks and balances, control procedures, and embedded incentives facilitating collective action oriented toward public or mutual interest or toward advocacy. Because the voluntary governance structure is also compatible with several types of coordination mechanisms, voluntary organizations are able to operate in complex environments, mobilizing resources from market operations, governmental subsidies, or from reciprocity (volunteering, donations) while pursuing civic and democratic objectives. Their governance structure allows them to mitigate coordination failures and remain comparatively more efficient than other organizational forms. However, voluntary organizations may be subject to governance failures, the result of which could undermine trustworthiness and efficiency.
Une « relecture » de la charte d'Ottawa
Authors: Deschamps Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2008

La charte d'Ottawa sur la promotion de la santé date de 1986. Elle constitue un des textes fondamentaux de la santé publique moderne et suggère un capsus de méthodes particulièrement adaptée à la lutte contre les excès de la mondialisation économique et ses effets sur la santé.

Cet article propose de relire ce texte fondateur, d'en débattre, de le critiquer, de le commenter, d'en triturer le contenu pour en faciliter l'adaptation aux mouvances sociales, culturelles, institutionnelles, d'en rechercher la modernité, de le confronter à l'expérience qu'il a permis d'acquérir et de mesurer les changements qu'il a pu engendrer. (Promot Educ 2008; Supp (1): 8-13)
Promotion de la santé et développement des capacités de recherche: l'expérience du Québec
Authors: Massé Richard
Published: June 2008

Ce court texte relate les expériences récentes du Québec en matière de santé publique et de promotion de la santé, partant de l'adoption de la Politique de santé et de bien-être en 1992, jusqu'à la mise en œuvre du Programme national de santé publique en 2003, en passant par la création de l'Institut national de santé publique en 1998. A travers ces grands jalons, l'article expose aussi le développement des capacités de recherche en lien avec les perspectives de santé publique et de promotion de la santé au Québec, de même que les enseignements tirés de chacune de ces étapes et réalisations successives. Il esquisse enfin un portrait de l'évolution actuelle du Québec à ce chapitre, et suggère quelques mécanismes susceptibles de structurer le développement des capacités de recherche en santé publique et en promotion de la santé au cours des années à venir. (Promot Educ 2008; Supp(1): 29-30)
Des programmes de promotion de la sante et d'éducation pour la santé en Algerie : situation actuelle et perspectives
Authors: Soulimane Addelkrim
Published: June 2008

De nombreux efforts sont déployés depuis ces dernières années dans les pays dits en développement pour améliorer la santé des populations. Un élargissement et une plus grande rationalité des politiques et organisations sanitaires rendent les soins beaucoup plus accessibles. De nouvelles perspectives en matière de politique publiques de santé s'ouvrent ainsi à ces pays mais dans un contexte de plus en plus difficile face aux défis de la mondialisation. L'Algérie n'échappe pas à cette évolution mais se heurte à des contraintes, exogènes et endogènes, qui altèrent l'efficacité et les performances de son système de santé. La réalité socio- sanitaire est définie par une double transition, démographique et épidémiologique, qui bouleverse le champ de la santé.Les perturbations que connaît le pays sur les plans politique et socio-économique exercent une influence de plus en plus grandissante sur l'état de santé des populations et notamment les plus défavorisées.

Les réponses actuelles du système de santé obéissent à une logique médicale et épidémiologique mais des interventions basées sur des approches populationnelles et des initiatives innovantes montrent que de nouvelles stratégies d'intervention peuvent être élaborées pour mieux répondre aux besoins de santé des populations sans pour autant remettre en cause les principes de justice sociale et d'équité.

La refondation du système national de santé est possible. La situation actuelle est favorable à la mise en place d'actions dans le sens de la promotion de la santé mais celles-ci devraient être précédées d'un effort d'amélioration des connaissances dans ce domaine et de plaidoyer intense. (Promot Educ 2008; Supp(1): 35-38)
Etat des connaissances et besoins de recherche en promotion de la santé au Sénégal
Authors: Anta Tal Dia
Published: June 2008

Au Sénégal, la prévention et la promotion de la santé constituent des stratégies majeures pour la résolution des problèmes de santé. L'avènement du Document de Stratégie de Réduction de la Pauvreté, dans le cadre de la réalisation des Objectifs du Millénaire pour le développement, a permis au ministère de la Santé et de la Prévention Médicale d'orienter les programmes de santé vers les cibles les plus vulnérables, telles que la mère, l'enfant et la personne âgée. A l'instar de ce qui se passe dans la plupart des pays d'Afrique de l'ouest, les actions de promotion de la santé n'y sont pas encore menées de façon systématique.

Cependant, on note quelques interventions ponctuelles et dispersées dans le cadre de la collaboration entre le secteur de la santé et ses partenaires dans certains domaines: la lutte contre des maladies transmissibles telles que le ver de Guinée, le paludisme, l'infection à VIH et le SIDA, la tuberculose, l'onchocercose, mais aussi des maladies non transmissibles comme le diabète, l'hypertension artérielle, les maladies cardiovasculaires, les cancers, les troubles nutritionnels. L'augmentation de la prévalence de ce dernier type d'affections est attribuée au changement de mode de vie, sur le plan des habitudes alimentaires, le manque d'exercice physique, le tabagisme, la consommation d'alcool.

La recherche, notamment la recherche appliquée, permettra d'étudier, entre autres aspects:

- les connaissances des populations sur les déterminants des pathologies transmissibles et non transmissibles et les pratiques;

- les modes de vie émergents en situation de transition épidémiologique;

- les facteurs de risque et les atouts pour la santé;

- les modèles d'intégration de la promotion de la santé dans les programmes de développement;

- les processus et les mécanismes de participation communautaire;

- l'Impact des stratégies, messages et supports sur la promotion de la santé. (Promot Educ 2008; Supp(1): 43-44)
Prévention et promotion dans les systèmes de santé: analyses croisées et besoins de recherche
Authors: Jabot Françoise , Chambaud Laurent , Gerhart Catherine , Bourdages Josée , Brunelle Yvon , Morisset Josée , Joubert Pierre
Published: June 2008

La place de la prévention et de la promotion de la santé dans les systèmes de santé est interrogée à partir de deux approches distinctes, basées sur le partage d'expériences et la comparaison des modèles qui sous-tendent des interventions dans ce domaine. La première partie de l'article relate un travail d'analyse des conditions de l'intégration de la prévention et promotion de la santé dans les systèmes de soins de quatre pays (Brésil, Canada, France, Suisse). La seconde rapporte une réflexion engagée depuis plus d'un an entre la France et le Québec, sur les attentes spécifiques vis-à-vis du système de soins au sein d'une démarche plus globale de promotion de la santé et de prévention.

Bien que relevant d'initiatives différentes et indépendantes, ces deux démarches procèdent d'une logique commune: clarifier, au sein d'un système de santé, ce que peut prendre en charge le système de soins et, par construction, réaffirmer la responsabilité politique et sociétale de la promotion de la santé. Il est nécessaire de développer des axes de recherche permettant de mieux préciser les concepts mis en œuvre lorsqu'on avance le terme de prévention au sein du système de soins, de fournir un cadre d'analyse ou de mise en cohérence des expériences de rapprochement entre prévention et soins et de favoriser la prise en compte de cette analyse dans le cadre spécifique des deux systèmes de santé, en tenant compte des évolutions, du contexte historique ou de la dynamique professionnelle propres à chaque pays.

Au delà d'une réflexion purement théorique, une telle analyse est nécessaire pour ne plus entretenir d'ambiguïté sur le rôle des professionnels du soin et construire des programmes de santé qui précisent le rôle de chacun. (Promot Educ 2008; Supp(1): 45-48)
Un modèle pour orienter les actions de promotion de la santé mentale et de prévention de troubles mentaux
Authors: D'Amours Geneviève , Poissant Julie , Desjardins Nicole , Laverdure Johanne , Massé Richard
Published: June 2008

Les experts dans le domaine de la santé mentale s'entendent sur la nécessité d'un investissement en amont des problèmes, soit en promotion de la santé mentale et en prévention des troubles mentaux. L'un des obstacles au déploiement de ces mesures est l'absence de modèle conceptuel à jour. Une recherche documentaire a été effectuée afin d'identifier un modèle conceptuel en promotion de la santé mentale et en prévention des troubles mentaux qui permettrait d'orienter l'action au Québec. Les modèles conceptuels retenus répondaient aux trois critères suivants : reprendre les éléments d'une conception positive de la santé mentale; permettre l'intégration de la promotion de la santé mentale et de la prévention des troubles mentaux; et proposer un rationnel permettant de juger de la pertinence des mesures. La revue des modèles a permis d'identifier deux modèles particulièrement intéressants en fonction des critères choisis : le modèle d'Albee pour la prévention des troubles mentaux et le modèle de McDonald et O'Hara pour la promotion de la santé mentale. Le modèle conceptuel proposé combine les éléments de ces deux modèles et comprend dix catégories de facteurs sur lesquels il faut agir, d'une part, en augmentant l'effet de cinq facteurs positifs et, d'autre part, en diminuant l'effet de cinq facteurs négatifs. Ce modèle est présentement utilisé au Québec et continuera d'être évalué comme outil de planification stratégique en santé mentale. (Promot Educ 2008; Supp(1): 54-59)
Un réseau de structures associatives de promotion de la santé : la Fédération Française des Comités d'Education pour la Santé (FNES)
Authors: Deschamps Jean-Pierre , Lorenzo Philippe , Logez Marie-Josèphe
Published: June 2008

La Fédération nationale des comités d'éducation pour la santé (FNES) rassemble en France 110 comités départementaux et régionaux d'éducation pour la santé, structures associatives (“associations sans but lucratif” en droit français) travaillant en réseau et ayant notamment en commun:

1. l'approche « généraliste » de la santé, celle-ci étant considérée comme un tout, ce qui n'exclut pas des approches thématiques (par exemple maladies cardio-vasculaires, addictions, santé des personnes âgées, sécurité routière, etc.);

2. l'approche « globale » de la santé, ne dissociant pas santé physique et santé mentale, considérant l'ensemble des déterminants de la santé, intégrant la prévention des maladies et la promotion du développement harmonieux et du bien-être des personnes et des groupes;

3. l'approche de santé publique qui concerne tous les secteurs de l'activité sociale, dont le système de soins dans ses dimensions à la fois curative et préventive;

4. La référence au concept de la promotion de la santé tel que défini par la charte d'Ottawa.

La recherche constitue un objectif de développement pour la FNES, qui vient de recruter dans son équipe permanente un “délégué aux affaires scientifiques et à la prospective”. Le développement technique de la FNES s'articule autour d'axes de travail (démarche d'asssurance de qualité, exploration de champs nouveaux de la promotion de la santé…) qui nécessitent de s'appuyer sur une dynamique de recherche propre et sur la prise en compte des acquis des recherches menées ailleurs. Les coopérations europénnes paraissent fondamentales à ce titre, et la FNES est heureuse d'être associée à la réflexion et aux efforts déployés dans ce sens au Grand Duché du Luxembourg. (Promot Educ 2008; Supp(1): 71-72)
Effects of Training on Idea Generation in Groups
Authors: Baruah Jonali , Paulus Paul B.
Published: June 2008

This study examined the effects of training and sequence of nominal and interactive groups on idea generation. Participants in groups of three or four were either trained in idea generation skills or were simply engaged in an equivalent amount of practice. They subsequently were asked to brainstorm in either an alone-to-group or a group-to-alone sequence. Training had a significant positive effect on the total number of ideas generated and average originality of ideas generated. The participants in the alone-to-group sequence generated a larger number of ideas than those in the group-to-alone sequence. These results indicate that training can increase both the quality and quantity of ideas generated in groups and that solitary idea generation prior to group brainstorming can be beneficial. These findings may be helpful to practitioners in enhancing the creativity of individuals in group work.
Attitudes Toward Embryo Research, Worldviews, and the Moral Status of the Embryo Frame
Authors: Pardo Rafael , Calvo Félix
Published: June 2008

Embryo research for obtaining stem cells is an attitudinal object embedded in a complex space of high expectations for reaching desirable goals, and also of strong moral reservations about the utilization and production of human embryos for research ends. An explanatory model of public attitudes to embryo research is offered here, composed of general variables and worldviews (expectations about scientific-technological advances, reservations to science, trust in scientists, religiosity, gender) and highly specific ones (one evaluative, views on “the moral status of the embryo,” and the other of a cognitive nature, “biological literacy”). A key factor in accepting or rejecting this line of research is the current, de facto, competition between biological science and moral and religious creeds in shaping a frame or image of the moral status of the embryo, either as a pure biological entity or, alternatively, as an actual or potential human being entitled to special protection.
Hyperhomocysteinemia Due to Pernicious Anemia Leading to Pulmonary Thromboembolism in a Heterozygous Mutation Carrier
Authors: Küpeli Elif , Cengiz Cem , Cila Ayşenur , Karnak Demet
Published: June 2008

Pulmonary thromboembolism is a life-threatening condition resulting mostly from lower extremity deep-vein or pelvic-vein thrombosis. A 46-year-old woman was admitted to hospital with pain on the right side of the chest and hemoptysis. On laboratory analysis, D-dimer level was elevated. Computed tomographic pulmonary angiography revealed intravascular filling defects due to thrombi in right lower lobe pulmonary segmental arteries. Screening for thrombophilic states was normal except for heterozygous mutations of both prothrombin and methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR 677) genes. Homocysteine level was high, and vitamin B12 level and serum ferritin level were reduced. Serum antiparietal antibody was positive, and therefore, pernicious anemia was diagnosed along with iron-deficiency anemia. After the diagnoses were established, enoxaparin followed by warfarin was started in addition to oral vitamin B12, pyridoxine, thiamine, folic acid, and ferroglycine sulfate supplementation. At the end of 8 weeks of the replacement therapy, vitamin B12, folate, and homocysteine levels and red cell volume were found to be normal, with complete resolution of the thrombus confirmed by repeat computed tomographic pulmonary angiography. We conclude that hyperhomocysteinemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency associated with pernicious anemia might have decreased the threshold for thrombosis. In addition, the presence of heterozygous prothrombin and methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase mutations might serve as synergistic cofactors triggering pulmonary thromboembolism.
Transition From Argatroban to Oral Anticoagulation With Phenprocoumon or Acenocoumarol: Effect on Coagulation Factor Testing
Authors: Walenga Jeanine M. , Drenth Amanda F. , Mayuga Myttle , Hoppensteadt Debra A. , Prechel Margaret , Harder Sebastian , Watanabe Hikari , Osakabe Masanori , Breddin Hans-Klaus
Published: June 2008

Treatment with the thrombin inhibitor argatroban is often followed by vitamin K-antagonist treatment. In this study, the behavior of coagulation factors measured under these treatment regimens is shown. Healthy subjects received infusions of 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 µg/kg/hr argatroban before and during phenprocoumon or acenocoumarol dosing. Quantitation of factors II, VII, IX, and X by clot-based assays resulted in dose dependent, approximately 20%, lower than expected values in the presence of argatroban. On the contrary, values for the inhibitors, protein C and protein S, were higher. Cotherapy exaggerated the effect by vitamin K-antagonist alone. However, testing by immunologic and chromogenic assays did not show any effect by argatroban. Coupled with a lack of bleeding in the subjects, these data suggests that argatroban does not affect coagulation proteins and that the observations are only an assay artifact. Assay interferences must be considered when measuring coagulation proteins in patients receiving thrombin inhibitors.
The Extrinsic Coagulation Activity Assay
Authors: Stief Thomas W. , Wieczerzak Aleksandra , Renz Harald
Published: June 2008

A chromogenic assay for the tissue factor—mediated thrombin generation was developed, the extrinsic coagulation activity assay: 50 µL citrated plasma is incubated with 5 µL tissue factor in 6% albumin and 250 mM CaCl2. After 1-minute (37°C) coagulation reaction time, (extrinsic coagulation activity assay with 1-minute coagulation reaction time; generating normally about 1 IU/mL thrombin) 100 µL 2.5 M arginine is added to stop hemostasis activation. Generated thrombin is then chromogenically quantified. The normal extrinsic coagulation activity assay range is 100% ± 20%. Extrinsic coagulation activity assay in plasma of patients on heparin or coumarines is about 10-fold lower. Advantages of extrinsic coagulation activity assay: normal range of extrinsic hemostasis is truly represented, patients prone to hyper-activated extrinsic pathway are detected, anticoagulants result in respective test inhibition, fibrinogen/fibrin concentration does not artefactually alters the test result, plasma matrix is not changed significantly in the assay, and assay results are IU/mL thrombin or % of normal, which can be measured by every normal photometer.
Teacher-Implemented Prelinguistic Communication Intervention
Authors: McCathren Rebecca B.
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this case study was to explore the efficacy of a prelinguistic intervention implemented by a classroom teacher in the ongoing daily activities of one special education preschool classroom. The project used a multiple baseline across behavior design for both child and teacher. The participants were a 3-year-old boy with severe communication and cognitive delays and his special education classroom teacher. The teacher implemented a prelinguistic intervention designed to increase the child's frequency and clarity of communication. The strategies used by the teacher were environmental arrangement, following the child's lead, imitation of vocalizations and gestures, modeling of vocalizations and gestures, and prompting for communication. The results indicated that the teacher was able to implement the intervention and showed increases in all the intervention strategies. The child increased his rate of intentional communication, eye contact, vocalizations with consonants, and conventional gestures. Two unanticipated results occurred. First, the child increased his use of symbolic communication, primarily of signs. He also developed symbolic play skills that were not targeted in the intervention. Although the results should be viewed with caution, they warrant further investigation of the use of prelinguistic intervention with young children with communication delays and disorders.