bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public opinion and trust in scientists: the role of the research context, and the perceived motivation of stem cell researchers
Authors: Critchley Christine R.
Published: May 2008

This research examined why the public may be less supportive of stem cell research when conducted in a private compared to public research context. A representative sample ( n = 403) of Australians who were exposed to information relating to privately funded scientists were significantly less likely to approve of stem cell research than those who were presented with a scenario of scientists working within a publicly funded University ( n = 401) and a control condition ( n = 404). Mediation analyses revealed that the decrease in approval was primarily associated with the tendency of privately funded scientists to be trusted less than their publicly funded counterparts. Public trust in University scientists was also found to be higher than that of private scientists because publicly funded scientists were perceived to be motivated more by benevolence, and more likely to produce benefits that will be accessible to the public. While private scientists were perceived to be more self interested than public scientists, perceived self interest did not explain the decrease in trust. There were also no significant differences across research contexts for the perceived competence of scientists or the likelihood that stem cell research would result in cures for diseases. The implications of these results are discussed in relation to the possible decrease in public trust that may occur alongside the increasing privatization of academic enquiry, and particularly controversial scientific research.
Framing effects on risk perception of nanotechnology
Authors: Schütz Holger , Wiedemann Peter M.
Published: May 2008

How do people judge nanotechnology risks that are completely unfamiliar to them? Drawing on results of previous studies on framing and risk perception, two hypotheses about potential influences on nanotechnology risk perception were examined in an experimental study: 1) Risk perception of nanotechnology is influenced by its benefit perception. 2) Risk perception of nanotechnology is influenced by the context in which nanotechnology is embedded, specifically by the characteristics of the enterprises that profit from nanotechnology: large multinational enterprises versus small and medium-sized enterprises. In contrast to findings for other new technologies, e.g. biotechnology, the different types of benefit did not affect risk perceptions in our study. However, we found that characterizing the enterprises as large multinational versus small or medium-sized leads to differences in risk perception. One can speculate that when personal knowledge about a technology is lacking, people use more familiar aspects from the social context as cues for their risk evaluation.
Factor Structure and Longitudinal Invariance of the Maslach Burnout Inventory
Authors: Kim Hansung , Juye Ji
Published: May 2008

Objective: The study examined the factorial validity of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) for social work research and practice. Method: Factor structure and longitudinal invariance of the MBI were tested using structural equation modeling techniques with a random sample of 475 state-registered social workers in California. Results: The original three-factor model was superior over other competing factor models. Investigation of the second-order factor model supported the presence of the common burnout factor and indicated depersonalization and emotional exhaustion were core components of burnout. Longitudinal factorial invariance was not achieved for personal accomplishment. Conclusion: The findings suggest the applicability of the MBI in a longitudinal research with careful inference regarding personal accomplishment and highlight the importance of depersonalization in social worker burnout.
The Impact of Working with Disturbing Secondary Data: Reading Suicide Files in a Coroner's Office
Authors: Fincham Ben , Scourfield Jonathan , Langer Susanne
Published: May 2008

The article discusses the effects on the researcher of reading disturbing secondary data (defined here as evidence gathered by someone other than the researcher). The case study is a qualitative sociological autopsy of suicide, and the secondary data—written documents and photographs—are all from case files in a British coroner's office. Following ethnographic detail about the research setting and research process, there is discussion of the diverse secondary data sources in these files, particularly in relation to the impact on the researcher. Some general observations are made about emotion in the research process and potential strategies for responding to emotion. The authors locate their responses to reading about suicides within the broader context of the social processing of death and distress, and also consider whether emotional reactions to data have any analytical purchase.
Where Do They Go, Whom Do They Consult, and Why? Health-Seeking Behaviors in the Northern Areas of Pakistan
Authors: Shaikh Babar T. , Haran David , Hatcher Juanita
Published: May 2008

This study presents an ethnographic account of health-seeking behaviors and determinants of health service utilization of people living in the rural Northern Areas of Pakistan. Data was gathered from 2004 to 2005 through 10 gender-specific focus group discussions. Sociodemographic characteristics, economic conditions, cultural forces, physical and environmental conditions, and health care service features form the behaviors. The complex composition of health care systems drives us to study the most intricate phenomenon of health care-seeking behaviors. Inappropriate or delayed health care-seeking could lead to undesirable health outcomes, high fertility, unwanted pregnancies, medical complications, and amplified susceptibility to future illnesses. At times it results in a significant economic burden when a simple illness becomes drawn out because of improper health-seeking behaviors. This study is an effort to present relevant information to the policy makers to reorient the health care services to make them more acceptable. It is recommended that this research be used for designing behavior change communication modules or social marketing campaigns in raising awareness about health in the community and sensitizing health care providers to the needs of their clients.
Factors Influencing Teen Mothers' Enrollment and Participation in Prevention of Mother-to-Child HIV Transmission Services in Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Varga Christine , Brookes Heather
Published: May 2008

In this article, we examine barriers to HIV testing uptake and participation in prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT) services among adolescent mothers aged 15 to 19 years in rural and urban Limpopo Province, South Africa. We used the narrative research method involving key informants constructing typical case studies of adolescent experiences with HIV testing and entry into PMTCT. Case studies formed the basis of a community-based questionnaire and focus group discussions with adolescent mothers. Client—counselor dynamics during pretest counseling were pivotal in determining uptake and participation, and counselor profile strongly influenced the nature of the interaction. Other factors found to influence adherence to PMTCT recommendations included HIV and early premarital pregnancy stigma, fear of a positive test result, and concerns over confidentiality and poor treatment by health care providers. Adolescents described elaborate strategies to avoid HIV disclosure to labor and delivery staff, despite knowing this would mean no antiretroviral therapy for their newborn infants. Theoretical, methodological, and programmatic implications of study findings are also discussed.
Using a Rapid Appraisal Approach in a Nationwide, Multisite Public Involvement Study in Scotland
Authors: Rowa-Dewar Neneh , Ager Wendy , Ryan Katherine , Hargan Irene , Hubbard Gill , Kearney Nora
Published: May 2008

This article reflects on the use of a multisite rapid appraisal (RA) approach with reference to the (to-date) largest qualitative study gathering the views of cancer and cancer care in a cross-section of the Scottish population. A series of ten RAs were conducted in ten communities across Scotland, reflecting the geographical and socioeconomic spread of the Scottish population and involving 507 members of the public, including the views of people who are often termed “hard to reach.” The research method is evaluated with reference to principles of RA approaches: the inductive approach, triangulation, assessment and response, and participation. Presentation of the methods adopted in this study demonstrates the value of the rapid appraisal approach in engaging with members of the public in health-related issues, which belies the “quick and dirty” reputation of RA approaches and offers a model for future public involvement work in health care. This makes the reflections on the method utilized particularly relevant to policy makers and researchers wishing to achieve meaningful public involvement and/or consider a method not previously used in this context.
The Meanings of Emotional Ailments in a Marginalized Community in Mexico City
Authors: Mora-Ríos Jazmín , Medina-Mora Maria Elena , Sugiyama Emily Ito , Natera Guillermina
Published: May 2008

The population's conceptions about health are crucial to the development of any intervention strategy in the field of public health. We are interested in describing the sense adult inhabitants confer on emotional ailments in daily life. We used the Theory of Social Representations as a framework of reference and a multimethod perspective, which will enable us to recover the subjective experience of participants in the study, not only regarding emotional suffering, but also as a means of incorporating their perceptions of pleasurable states into their everyday lives. Finally, we discuss our findings, taking into account the implications of using various methodological strategies to obtain a more integral health approach that proved extremely useful for identifying the felt needs of the population and proposing their inclusion in mental health care programs.
Acculturation in Filial Practices Among U.S. Chinese Caregivers
Authors: Hsueh Kuei-Hsiang , Hu Jie , Clarke-Ekong Sheilah
Published: May 2008

In this article, we explore the phenomenon of acculturation in filial practices among 21 Chinese immigrants in a suburban city in the Midwestern United States using focus groups and individual interviews. All participants were situational-reciprocal-filial caregivers who had acculturated into mainstream filial practices while preserving their heritage to deal with the challenges of parental care. Factors that influenced participants' acceptance of new filial practices included comfort in accepting new practices, financial status, and past relationship with the care receiver. Their motivations to acculturate included being overwhelmed, a multitude of situational constraints from being an immigrant, access to and utilization of resources, and the need for a coordinated approach to filial responsibilities. Their filial motivations included love, honoring traditions, meeting personal values, and meeting social expectations. These findings provide insight for designing culturally competent training and immigrant caregiver education.
Theoretical Approaches for Studying Corporations, Democracy, and the Public Good
Authors: Martí Ignasi , Etzion Dror , Leca Bernard
Published: May 2008

Answering Stephen Barley's call for academic research on the role of corporations in democratic societies, the authors convened a Professional Development Workshop at the 2007 Academy of Management annual meeting in Philadelphia. The ideas presented in this workshop are summarized in the following articles. In this introduction, the authors review some key points from the presentations delivered and highlight some theoretical orientations and questions that can guide future empirical analysis in this important and exciting domain.
Clinical Implications of Idiopathic Multicentric Castleman Disease Among Japanese: A Report of 28 Cases
Authors: Kojima Masaru , Nakamura Naoya , Tsukamoto Norihumi , Otuski Yoshiro , Shimizu Kazuhiko , Itoh Hideaki , Kobayashi Satsuki , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Murase Takuhei , Masawa Nobuhide , Kashimura Makoto , Nakamura Shigeo
Published: May 2008

To clarify the clinicopathologic findings of idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease among Japanese, 28 cases were studied. Two variants were delineated by the clinicopathologic findings (1) idiopathic plasmacytic lymphadenopathy with polyclonal hyperimmunoglobulinemia (n = 18) and (2) nonidiopathic plasmacytic lymphadenopathy type (n= 10). Clinicopathologically, idiopathic plasmacytic lymphadenopathy was defined by the prominent polyclonal hyperimmunoglobulinemia, normal germinal centers, and sheet-like infiltration of plasma cells in the interfollicular area of the lymph node. Histologically, the nonidiopathic plasmacytic lymphadenopathy type was characterized by hyaline-vascular germinal centers of the lymph node lesion. In comparison with idiopathic plasmacytic lymphadenopathy, patients with nonidiopathic plasmacytic lymphadenopathy showed infrequent prominent polyclonal hyperimmunoglobulinemia and frequent association with autoimmune disease. However, there was no difference in the overall 5-year survival between the 2 subtypes. Compared with idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease in Western countries, the chronic course of the disease of idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease in Japan appears to be related to negativity for human herpesvirus 8 infection.
Multifocal PEComa (PEComatosis) of the Female Genital Tract Associated With Endometriosis, Diffuse Adenomyosis, and Endometrial Atypical Hyperplasia
Authors: Froio Elisabetta , Piana Simonetta , Cavazza Alberto , Valli Riccardo , Abrate Martino , Gardini Giorgio
Published: May 2008

The authors describe a case of multifocal perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa) arising in the pelvis of a 39-year-old woman affected by tuberous sclerosis. The tumor presented in the form of multiple fascicular, focally cystic nodules involving the uterine corpus, both ovaries, and the omentum. Microscopically, the nodules were composed of foci of adenomyosis and endometriosis (with focal atypical complex hyperplasia) associated with a stromal spindle cell population immunoreactive for HMB-45, smooth muscle actin, and estrogen and progesterone receptors. We interpret these foci as the result of a widespread proliferation of perivascular epithelioid cells (PEC). Because of the diffuse quality of the process, the designation of PEComatosis seems warranted.
Amebic Colitis Can Mimic Tuberculosis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease on Endoscopy and Biopsy
Authors: Pai Sanjay A.
Published: May 2008

Biopsies of 11 patients with histopathologically diagnosed amebic colitis was evaluated; endoscopically, they were suspected to have tuberculosis or inflammatory bowel disease. Amebiasis was suggested in the differential diagnosis in only 3 cases. Three patients had purely rectal or sigmoid involvement, whereas the others had ileocecal, cecal, ascending, or transverse colon disease. The biopsies showed cryptitis and depletion of mucin but no crypt branching. Crypt abscesses were seen in one biopsy. Trophozoites of Entamoeba histolytica were seen in the exudate in all cases. The trophozoites were round to oval, approximately 25 to 40 µm in diameter and had a single, round nucleus and periodic acid-Schiff—positive cytoplasm. Phagocytosed erythrocytes were present in the trophozoites. Some features of ulcerative colitis and infectious colitis, such as cryptitis and crypt abscesses, are also seen in amebic colitis. Amebic colitis must be included in the differential diagnosis of all patients with suspected inflammatory bowel disease and tuberculosis.
Metastatic Angiosarcoma in an Ileal Conduit: An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Avramut Mihaela , Parwani Anil V.
Published: May 2008

The authors in this study describe the case of a patient with a history of multiple malignancies who underwent total cystectomy with ileal loop urinary diversion and presented with a lower extremity angiosarcoma on the background of lymphedema a decade later. Shortly thereafter, she was diagnosed with metastatic ileal conduit angiosarcoma. The authors state that to their knowledge, this is the first case of ileal conduit angiosarcoma reported in the English literature.
Epstein-Barr Virus Gastritis: Rare or Rarely Sampled? A Case Report
Authors: Owens Scott R. , Walls Andrew , Krasinskas Alyssa M. , Rund Chad R.
Published: May 2008

Gastritis related to Epstein-Barr virus infection has been rarely reported in the literature. However, one population, arguably, most likely to be infected with the virus (young patients) is unlikely to undergo major diagnostic procedures that would yield pathological specimens containing the characteristic findings. Thus, the disease may be rarely sampled rather than truly rare. Furthermore, any patient with Epstein-Barr virus— related gastritis may manifest clinical and histological findings that can mimic hematolymphoid neoplasia. Therefore, care must be taken and a high level of clinical suspicion employed to avoid a misdiagnosis of lymphoma in these cases. Such a case is reported, with clinicopathological findings and follow-up information indicative of Epstein-Barr virus as the etiology of a clinically and histopathologically significant gastritis containing large, atypical immunoblast-like cells.
A Case of Liver Metastasis From an Oncocytoma With a Focal Area of Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
Authors: Aslam Muhammad I. , Spencer Laura , Garcea Guiseppe , Pollard Chris , Metcalfe Matthew S. , Harrison Rebecca F. , Dennison Ashley R.
Published: May 2008

In 2004, the World Health Organization classified the renal oncocytomas as benign neoplasms of the kidney. There are reports of subtypes of renal tumors, with similar histological morphology to oncocytoma, but with malignant potential, one of these tumors is the eosinophilic variant of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma. It is important to characterize the histological features and the subtype of tumor, as this predicts biological behavior and cancer-specific survival rate. A rare case of a liver metastasis from a focal area of eosinophilic variant of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma mixed in oncocytoma in a 69-year-old woman is reported. Although some renal tumors may contain oncocytoma and eosinophilic variant of chromophobe renal cell carcinoma histology, caution should be exercised while diagnosing oncocytomas in needle biopsies as there may be unsampled area of chromophobe carcinoma which has a potential for metastatic spread representing a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma of Skin Diagnosed With Hepatocyte Paraffin 1 and a-Fetoprotein Immunostainings
Authors: Terada Tadashi , Sugiura Makoto
Published: May 2008

A rare case of skin metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosed with an aid of immunohistochemical stainings of hepatocyte paraffin 1 and a-fetoprotein is reported in this study. An 86-year-old Japanese man was admitted to our hospital due to cutaneous mass in the right chest. An incisional biopsy was performed, which showed proliferation of malignant cells with eosinophilic or clear cytoplasm arranged in solid nests. No trabecular pattern was recognized. Sebaceous carcinoma, clear cell sarcoma, malignant granular cell tumor, metastatic renal cell carcinoma, and metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma were suspected on hematoxylin and eosin preparations. An immunohistochemical study showed that the tumor cells were positive for cytokeratins, hepatocyte paraffin 1, and a-fetoprotein but negative for vimentin, desmin, a-smooth muscle actin, S-100 protein, epithelial membrane antigen, carcinoembryonic antigen, chromogranin, neuron-specific enolase, CD10, CD30, CD34, CD45, CD68, and HMB45. Metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma of the skin was diagnosed pathologically. This case suggests that skin tumors with eosinophilic cytoplasm should be examined by hepatocyte paraffin 1 and a-fetoprotein.
Math and Science Social Cognitive Variables in College Students
Authors: Byars-Winston Angela M. , Fouad Nadya A.
Published: May 2008

This study investigated the influence of two contextual factors, parental involvement and perceived career barriers, on math/science goals. Using social cognitive career theory (SCCT; Lent, Brown, & Hackett, 1994), a path model was tested to investigate hypothesized relationships between math- and science-related efficacy beliefs (i.e., task and coping) and perceived career barriers to math/science interests and goals in a sample of 227 undergraduates. Overall fit indices supported a model for the direct contribution of parental involvement largely to outcome expectations and moderately to math/science task self-efficacy and perceived barriers. Parental involvement directly and indirectly predicted goals through its strong relationship with outcome expectations. Outcome expectations and interests directly predicted goal intentions. Evidence supported coping efficacy as a mediator of the relationship between perceived career barriers and goals. Future research directions and practice implications are discussed.
A Psychometric Evaluation of Super's Work Values Inventory—Revised
Authors: Robinson Carrie H. , Betz Nancy E.
Published: May 2008

This study describes the psychometric evaluation of Super's Work Values Inventory—Revised (SWVI-R), an instrument comprised of 12 scales measuring the relative importance placed on the following work-related value dimensions: Achievement, Coworkers, Creativity, Income, Independence, Lifestyle, Mental Challenge, Prestige, Security, Supervision, Work Environment, and Variety. These Work Values scales were internally consistent and showed predictable patterns of gender differences and similarities. Racial/ethnic differences in the relative emphasis placed on work values were also explored in this study. The factor analysis yielded four theoretically consistent underlying factors, as follows: Environment, Esteem, Excitement, and Safety. Furthermore, the scales and factors of the SWVI-R were related to the broader cultural value systems of individualism and collectivism. In addition, the Work Values scales demonstrated adequate discriminant validity with two aspects of social desirability. Limitations of this study are discussed, along with further research on and potential uses for this inventory.
Hildegard Peplau's Theory and the Health Care Encounters of Survivors of Sexual Violence
Authors: Courey Tamra J. , Martsolf Donna S. , Draucker Claire B. , Strickland Karen B.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Individuals who experience sexual violence often seek services in a variety of health care settings. Although research indicates that survivors often report that interactions with health care professionals are distressing, little is known about what renders these encounters helpful or hurtful. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to use Hildegard Peplau's (1952) conceptualization of nurses' helping roles (i.e., stranger, resource person, teacher, leadership, surrogate, counselor, technical expert) in nurse—client interactions to explore how survivors of sexual violence perceive their encounters with health care professionals. STUDY DESIGN: Content analysis was conducted on the transcripts of 60 minimally structured interviews in which participants discussed their experiences of sexual violence. RESULTS: The results revealed that the helping roles of counselor and technical expert, as identified by Peplau, were most important to survivors of sexual violence. Regardless of role, participants perceived health care professionals to be helpful when they exhibited interpersonal sensitivity, especially in regard to the participants' experiences with violence. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that health care professionals need to maintain an attentive and compassionate stance when working with survivors of sexual violence. Those who serve in a counselor role need to create an atmosphere of trust so that clients may explore in depth how violence has affected their lives. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc, 2008; 14(2) , 136-143. DOI: 10.1177/1078390308315613
Psychopharmacologic First-Line Strategies in the Treatment of Major Depression and Psychosis: A Survey of Advanced Practice Nurses
Authors: Wolfe Barbara E. , Talley Sandra L. , Smith Adrian T.
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: Developments in psychopharmacology have led to a broad range of medication choices for prescribing clinicians. Although there have been advances in drug development, less is known about the prescribing strategies used by psychiatric—mental health advanced practice nurses or the extent to which these practices reflect existing practice guidelines. OBJECTIVES: This study examined the prescribing practices of advanced practice nurses attending a psychopharmacology continuing education program. Participants were surveyed about (a) first-line strategies for the treatment of major depression and first-episode psychosis and (b) choices for managing insomnia and the side effect of weight gain. STUDY DESIGN: Participants completed an onsite questionnaire regarding advanced practice characteristics and management of specific clinical situations. RESULTS: The majority of prescribing advanced practice nurses surveyed were psychiatric—mental health specialists. Approximately two thirds (65.9%) of the advanced practice nurses prescribed psychotropic medications, most often for depression. First-choice agents for depression and first-episode psychosis were selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (97.3%) and atypical antipsychotics (93.9%), respectively. Interventions for insomnia and medication-related weight gain were more varied. CONCLUSIONS: For the advanced practice nurses surveyed, first-line strategies for depression and first-episode psychosis appear consistent with literature and practice guidelines. Future studies and educational offerings would benefit from addressing dosing and switching strategies and optimizing approaches for managing side effects. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc , 2008; 14(2), 144-151. DOI: 10.1177/1078390308316124
Screaming in elderly persons with dementia
Authors: Bourbonnais Anne , Ducharme Francine
Published: May 2008

This article presents a critical review of empirical data to guide knowledge development of screaming in elderly persons with dementia. Many reasons have been identified for why humans and animals scream. Studies on elderly populations have focused mostly on factors associated with screaming. Also, a vast selection of interventions for elderly persons with dementia who scream has been tested, but there is little evidence of their efficacy. Better knowledge of screaming in this population is needed. In particular, the meaning of this behaviour must be determined and stronger evidence of the efficacy of interventions must be acquired. In order to develop helpful clinical interventions, it is suggested that diverse research methods be used and that the perspective of all actors involved be considered, including that of the elderly persons, their families and their professional caregivers.
`I was worried coming in because I don't really know why it was arranged'
Authors: Cahill Suzanne M. , Gibb Matthew , Bruce Irene , Headon Mary , Drury Mary
Published: May 2008

Whilst in the Western world, memory clinics are fast becoming an evolving feature of the Geriatric Service landscape, little is known from a user's perspective about the expectations and experiences of people with memory problems referred to a memory clinic for the first time and about the attitudes and concerns of their family caregivers. This article reports quantitative and qualitative data emerging from a study of 28 patients with dementia and their family caregivers who attended a first appointment at a National Memory Clinic in Ireland. Data show that despite initially feeling unnerved by the clinic appointment, immediately afterwards the majority of patients felt content with the assessment process, were satisfied with the explanations and information received, felt the appointment had benefited them and by the end of the visit felt more positive than negative about their experience. A large number of patients who responded to a question about feedback, requested that this information be given to them in writing as well as orally. Some recommendations are made about small procedural changes which can be made to help to demystify the memory clinic experience.
The impact of early dementia on outdoor life
Authors: Duggan Sandra , Blackman Tim , Martyr Anthony , Van Schaik Paul
Published: May 2008

This article reports the voices of 22 people with early to moderate dementia and their carers about the use of the outdoor environment. Analysis of semi-structured interviews demonstrates that people with early dementia value the outdoor environment for reasons such as exercise, fresh air, emotional well-being, the opportunity for informal encounters with neighbours and friends and the appreciation of the countryside. Conversely, not being able to go out was associated with feelings of depression. Carers reported that the impact of dementia was to decrease the frequency of outdoor activity and to limit the areas visited to those that were the most familiar. Maintaining outdoor activity is likely to be an effective measure in extending the period of good quality living and might decrease the period when intensive services are required. It should therefore be considered in planning for both residential care and community living in the future.
Ukrainian inpatient dementia care
Authors: Thomas David W.
Published: May 2008

The country of Ukraine, due to the recent political changes, has been forced to provide social services in the absence of large government subsidies which served as a social safety net prior to 1991. In particular, the need for long-term care services, specifically inpatient dementia care, will continue to challenge an already over burdened system due to the projected increase in older adults who will need assistance. A case-study survey into aspects of dementia care within two neurological-psychiatric regional hospitals in eastern Ukraine was conducted in May 2005, using a standardized evaluation form designed for dementia-specific units. The results found that the limitations imposed by the lack of financial resources can be partially offset through creativity, cooperation and sound care practices at the individual level. Some practices, such as the expanded role of the nursing aide, flexible staff schedules, and a cultural influence that encourages a familial bond among staff toward their patients, offers food for thought for US dementia care providers.
Researching the Lives of Disabled Children
Authors: Cocks Alison
Published: May 2008

Disabled children, especially those who do not use formally recognized methods of communication, are acknowledged to be at risk of social exclusion (Priestley, 2003; Rabiee et al., 2005b), within their daily lives (Sharma, 2002; Watson et al., 1999), and within research (Davis et al., 2000). This research methods article reflects on the author's use of participant observation as a way of ensuring inclusivity in a project that sought to discover the nature of the peer culture of children with learning disabilities visiting specialist social care services. The author explores the achievement of a `leastadult' role (Mandell, 1991; Mishna et al., 2004) in order to gain the trust and participation of the children within highly regulated and supervised settings. The article will also briefly consider the resulting data, which provided a rich contextual account of the nature of children's cultural activity that successfully included all the children observed.
Lived Experience, Reflexivity, and Research on Perpetrators of Interpersonal Violence
Authors: Gilgun Jane F.
Published: May 2008

When conducting phenomenological studies, researchers seek to understand the lived experience of research participants. This goal presents special challenges when the topic is the meanings of violence to perpetrators. The purpose of this article is to describe the transformations of a feminist woman's understandings of the meanings of violence to male perpetrators of interpersonal violence in a long-term life history interview project. This article, therefore, is a case study of reflexivity in action. The methodological lessons learned may be instructive to other researchers interested in phenomenological research on interpersonal violence and other sensitive topics.
Housing for Aboriginal Ex-offenders in the Urban Core
Authors: Brown Jason D. , Wingert Susan , Higgitt Nancy , Knol Dilly , Block Heather , Barkman Murray , Charette Catherine
Published: May 2008

Aboriginal peoples are over-represented in the Canadian corrections system. When released, they face challenges. Many return to the communities where their friends and family are but have few housing, educational, and employment opportunities, and have difficult choices to make. This participatory research study included interviews with 30 Aboriginal men who had done jail time and had lived in the downtown core of a major Canadian prairie city. It revealed five overlapping themes describing the experience of being released, getting by, finding a community that would receive them, staying out of jail, and trying to get ahead. The results indicate that there is a gap in services for Aboriginal men who have done jail time, and that housing models to meet this need should be developed with the input of residents in local communities.
Health Promotion for People With Disabilities: Implications for Empowering the Person and Promoting Disability-Friendly Environments
Authors: Rimmer James H. , Rowland Jennifer L.
Published: May 2008

Developing innovative strategies that promote health among people with disabilities has emerged as an important public health priority. People with disabilities report fewer healthy days than the general population and lower rates of health-promoting behaviors (eg, physical inactivity and poor nutritional intake). One of the major priorities in health promotion for people with disabilities is to prevent secondary conditions. Secondary conditions are health concerns that are not a direct result of the primary disability but rather are acquired at a later time due to lifestyle changes associated with the disability (eg, weight gain, pressure sores, pain, fatigue, depression). It is important for health professionals to recognize that the substantial health disparities that exist between people with and without disabilities requires greater attention to establishing disability-friendly environments that reduce architectural, programmatic, and attitudinal barriers that make it difficult for them to engage in self-initiated health promotion practices. Empowering people with disabilities to self-manage their health requires the full support of community service providers in promoting greater access to all health promotion venues, programs, and services.
Study of surface of early medieval frescoes by micro-PIXE, SEM and Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Zucchiatti A.
Published: May 2008

The author has studied the artist's palette and the painting techniques in the frescoes of the Longobard temple (late eighth to early ninth century) in Cividale del Friuli (Italy) and of the crypt of San Salvatore in Brescia (Italy) dated from the eighth century. High sensitivity microprobes were used such as PIXE, SEM and micro-Raman for the characterisation of materials in submillimetre samples. Information from multidisciplinary techniques revealed an unexpected richness of details and gave a clue to the economic context in which the two monuments were conceived and built. In both cases the authors found the use of common traditional materials as well as features that distinguish the two sites. Micro-PIXE analysis led to the identification of earth colours and demonstrated a few details of the surface preparation. Raman spectroscopy has identified a carbon based false blue in Cividale and degradation of carbonate into gypsum.
The metal of the moon goddess
Authors: Giumlia-Mair A.
Published: May 2008

Arsenical copper was widely used in the Early Bronze Age, but it was not employed after the introduction of copper–tin alloys in the period around the Middle Bronze Age.

Nevertheless the present research showed that a few ornamental objects of particular kind were made of a copper alloy with a silvery surface, containing arsenic, antimony and often some cobalt and nickel still in the Final Bronze Age and in the Iron Age. This alloy is very fragile and can only be cast, it is very difficult to cut and file and shows a characteristic silvery surface.

The shiny and silvery grey colour of these objects is due to a segregation phenomenon. During the slow cooling of the metal the As rich α and γ compound (eutectic) is pushed to the surface through feeders which look like filaments running into the metal body and forms the typical silvery grey layer. The microstructure of the eutectic shows a solid solution phase α and a compound γ, containing 29˙65 As (Cu3As). The eutectic can develop already with 1–2% of As in the alloy.

Ornamental objects made of this distinctive and beautiful material were worn by women who had special powers and exceptional functions in the society of the time and were connected with the cult of the moon and fertility goddess.
The antileukemia activity of a human anti-CD40 antagonist antibody, HCD122, on human chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Luqman Mohammad , Klabunde Sha , Lin Karen , Georgakis Georgios V. , Cherukuri Anu , Holash Jocelyn , Goldbeck Cheryl , Xu Xiaomei , Kadel Edward E. , Lee Sang Hoon , Aukerman Sharon Lea , Jallal Bahija , Aziz Natasha , Weng Wen-Kai , Wierda William , O'Brien Susan , Younes Anas
Published: May 2008

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) is a lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by the surface expression of CD20, CD5 antigens, as well as the receptor CD40. Activation of CD40 by its ligand (CD40L) induces proliferation and rescues the cells from spontaneous and chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. CD40 activation also induces secretion of cytokines, such as IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, IL-8, and GM-CSF, which are involved in tumor cell survival, migration, and interaction with cells in the tumor microenvironment. Here we demonstrate that in primary B-CLL tumor cells, the novel antagonist anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody, HCD122, inhibits CD40L-induced activation of signaling pathways, proliferation and survival, and secretion of cytokines. Furthermore, HCD122 is also a potent mediator of antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), lysing B-CLL cells more efficiently than rituximab in vitro, despite a significantly higher number of cell surface CD20 binding sites compared with CD40. Unlike rituximab, however, HCD122 (formerly CHIR-12.12) does not internalize upon binding to the cells. Our data suggest that HCD122 may inhibit B-CLL growth by blocking CD40 signaling and by ADCC-mediated cell lysis.
The vessel wall and its interactions
Authors: Wagner Denisa D. , Frenette Paul S.
Published: May 2008

Blood cell interactions with the vessel wall were first documented almost 170 years ago. Modern advances have revealed that leukocyte and platelet interactions with the endothelium are at the nexus of complex, dynamic cellular and molecular networks that, when dysregulated, may lead to pathological inflammation and thrombosis, which are major sources of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. In this review, we relate the history of blood cell interactions with the vasculature, discuss recent progress, and raise some unresolved questions awaiting the field.
Health and lifestyle of Nepalese migrants in the UK
Authors: Adhikary Pratik , Simkhada Padam P , van Teijlingen Edwin R , Raja Amalraj E
Published: May 2008

Background

The health status and lifestyle of migrants is often poorer than that of the general population of their host countries. The Nepalese represent a relatively small, but growing, immigrant community in the UK, about whom very little is known in term of public health. Therefore, our study examined the health and lifestyle of Nepalese migrants in the UK.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of Nepalese migrants in UK was conducted in early 2007 using a postal, self-administered questionnaire in England and Scotland (n = 312), and telephone interviews in Wales (n = 15). The total response rate was 68% (327 out of 480). Data were analyzed to establish whether there are associations between socio-economic and lifestyle factors. A multivariate binary logistic regression was applied to find out independent effect of personal factors on health status.

Results

The majority of respondents was male (75%), aged between 30 and 45 (66%), married or had a civil partner (83%), had university education (47%) and an annual family income (69%) ranging from £5,035 to £33,300. More than one third (39%) of the respondents have lived in the UK for 1 to 5 years and approximately half (46%) were longer-term residents. Most (95%) were registered with a family doctor, but only 38% with a dentist. A low proportion (14%) of respondents smoked but more than half (61%) consumed alcohol. More than half (57%) did not do regular exercises and nearly one fourth (23%) of respondents rated their health as poor. Self reported 'good' health status of the respondents was independently associated with immigration status and doing regular exercise

Conclusion

The self reported health status and lifestyle, health seeking behaviour of Nepalese people who are residing in UK appears to be good. However, the overall regular exercise and dentist registration was rather poor. Health promotion, especially aimed at Nepalese migrants could help encourage them to exercise regularly and assist them to register with a dentist.
Proteomic changes in rat hippocampus and adrenals following short-term sleep deprivation
Authors: Poirrier Jean-Etienne , Guillonneau François , Renaut Jenny , Sergeant Kjell , Luxen Andre , Maquet Pierre , Leprince Pierre
Published: May 2008

Background

To identify the biochemical changes induced by sleep deprivation at a proteomic level, we compared the hippocampal proteome of rats either after 4 hours of sleep or sleep deprivation obtained by gentle handling. Because sleep deprivation might induce some stress, we also analyzed proteomic changes in rat adrenals in the same conditions. After sleep deprivation, proteins from both tissues were extracted and subjected to 2D-DIGE analysis followed by protein identification through mass spectrometry and database search.

Results

In the hippocampus, 87 spots showed significant variation between sleep and sleep deprivation, with more proteins showing higher abundance in the latter case. Of these, 16 proteins were present in sufficient amount for a sequencing attempt and among the 12 identified proteins, inferred affected cellular functions include cell metabolism, energy pathways, transport and vesicle trafficking, cytoskeleton and protein processing. Although we did not observe classical, macroscopic effect of stress in sleep-deprived rats, 47 protein spots showed significant variation in adrenal tissue between sleep and sleep deprivation, with more proteins showing higher abundance following sleep. Of these, 16 proteins were also present in sufficient amount for a sequencing attempt and among the 13 identified proteins, the most relevant cellular function that was affected was cell metabolism.

Conclusion

At a proteomic level, short term sleep deprivation is characterized by a higher expression of some proteins in the hippocampus and a lower abundance of other proteins in the adrenals (compared to normal sleep control). Altogether, this could indicate a general activation of a number of cellular mechanisms involved in the maintenance of wakefulness and in increased energy expenditure during sleep deprivation. These findings are relevant to suggested functions of sleep like energy repletion and the restoration of molecular stocks or a more global homeostasis of synaptic processes.
Antismoking messages and current cigarette smoking status in Somaliland: results from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey 2004
Authors: Siziya Seter , Rudatsikira Emmanuel , Muula Adamson S
Published: May 2008

Background

Tobacco is a leading cause of death globally. There are limited reports on current cigarette smoking prevalence and its associated-antismoking messages among adolescents in conflict zones of the world. We, therefore, conducted secondary analysis of data to estimate the prevalence of current cigarette smoking, and to determine associations of antismoking messages with smoking status.

Methods

We used data from the Somaliland Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) of 2004 to estimate the prevalence of smoking. We also assessed whether being exposed to anti-smoking media, education and having discussed with family members on the harmful effects of smoking were associated with smoking. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess these associations. Current smoking was defined as having reported smoking cigarettes, even a single puff, in the last 30 days preceding the survey (main outcome).

Results

Altogether 1563 adolescents participated in the survey. However, 1122 had data on the main outcome. Altogether, 15.8% of the respondents reported having smoked cigarettes (10.3% among males, and 11.1% among females). Factors that were associated with reported non-smoking were: discussing harmful effects of smoking cigarettes with their family members (OR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.52, 0.71); being taught that smoking makes teeth yellow, causes wrinkles and smokers smell badly (OR = 0.62, 95% CI 0.52, 0.74); being taught that people of the respondent's age do not smoke (OR = 0.81, 95% CI 0.69, 0.95); and having reported that religious organizations discouraged young people smoking (OR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.60, 0.82). However, exposure to a lot many antismoking messages at social gatherings was associated with smoking. Exposure to antismoking print media was not associated with smoking status.

Conclusion

A combination of school and home based antismoking interventions may be effective in controlling adolescent smoking in Somaliland.
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia prosthetic valve endocarditis: a case report
Authors: Bayle Sophie , Rovery Clarisse , Sbragia Pascal , Raoult Didier , Brouqui Philippe
Published: May 2008

Introduction

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is an environmental bacterium increasingly involved in nosocomial infections and resistant to most antibiotics. It is important to recognize and efficiently treat infections with this bacterium as soon as possible.

Case presentation

We present a case of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia prosthetic valve endocarditis secondary to an indwelling catheter infection. The patient was cured without surgery. We review other cases of S. maltophilia endocarditis from the literature and describe the peculiarities of this case.

Conclusion

S. maltophilia endocarditis is a rare disease that is often hospital-acquired and related to an indwelling catheter infection. The high lethality is likely related to the intrinsic resistance of nosocomial bloodstream infections to commonly prescribed antibiotics.