bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experience of Adult Facilitators in a Virtual-Reality-Based Social Interaction Program for Children With Autism
Authors: Ke Fengfeng , Im Tami , Xue Xinrong , Xu Xinhao , Kim Namju , Lee Sungwoong
Published: September 2013

This phenomenological study explored and described the experiences and perceptions of adult facilitators who facilitated virtual-reality-based social interaction for children with autism. Extensive data were collected from iterative, in-depth interviews; online activities observation; and video analysis. Four salient themes emerged through the process of data generation, analysis, and comparison of participants: heterogeneity in group-based facilitation, coexistence of virtual and physical interaction spaces, sparkle and out-of-track moments, and pretraining for individualized facilitation. The findings should enrich the research area of technology-enhanced special education by delineating the dynamic processes and patterns of facilitating Internet-based social interactions for children with special needs.
Neighborhoods and Parenting
Authors: Zuberi Anita
Published: September 2013

The present study examines the relationship between neighborhood quality and parental monitoring of youth aged 10 to 18 ( N = 1,630) from the Child Development Supplement of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. Multiple measures of the neighborhood, including parents’ perceptions of quality, structure (i.e., poverty and affluence), and social organization (i.e., collective efficacy), are examined to gain a deeper understanding of how neighborhoods influence parenting. Parental monitoring is assessed through two separate measures: parents’ knowledge of their youth’s friends and whereabouts and having rules to regulate after-school activities. Bivariate models show that parents’ perceptions of neighborhood quality are differentially related to each aspect of parental monitoring, but these relationships are accounted for by child/family characteristics. Collective efficacy, however, remains positively tied to both aspects of parental monitoring. Social organization is also more strongly associated with parental monitoring than neighborhood structure. The policy implications of these findings for youth are discussed.
The Ethnographic Machine
Authors: Morita Atsuro
Published: September 2013

Context holds a significant place mediating the conceptual and the empirical in ethnography. This modality of knowledge has also become a significant part of science and technology studies since the rise of laboratory studies. However, conventional modes of contextualization that locate the object of study within a whole—such as within a society or culture—have become a target of suspicion and criticism since the 1980s. This led to the radical alteration of the contextualizing strategies of actor–network theory (ANT) and multisited ethnography. Anthropologist Marilyn Strathern is also responding to this crisis by renovating the practice of ethnography in a way significantly different from both strategies. Since contextualization occupies a significant place in the formation of ethnography as a representation of a larger “out there” reality, her alternative contextualization requires a new characterization of ethnography other than representation. This article tries to expound the complicated, and often perplexing, ethnography of Strathern by making an analogy with objects familiar to most science, technology, and society scholars, namely, machines. By doing so, this article argues that Strathern is opening up a new way of dealing with context that is radically different both from ANT and from multisited ethnography.
Parental emotional support during emerging adulthood and Baby Boomers’ well-being in midlife
Authors: Poon Cecilia Y. M. , Knight Bob G.
Published: September 2013

This study examined whether parental emotional support around emerging adulthood influenced well-being in midlife. We applied latent growth curve (LGC) models on 337 Baby Boomers who were in their late teens to early 20s when they entered the Longitudinal Study of Generations (LSOG) in 1971. There was a small but significant decline in self-rated health and positive emotions through 2005, but not depressive symptoms. Greater support from fathers in 1971 was associated with better self-rated health, less depression, and a slower decline in self-rated health across midlife. Greater support from mothers was associated with more positive emotions. These associations did not significantly differ among sons and daughters. Findings are discussed in the context of cumulative advantage/disadvantage and life-stage specific challenges to highlight the importance of parental emotional support during life transitions.
Clinical Impact of Early CT Scans after Lateral Skull‐Base Surgery
Authors: Jiang Zi Yang , Allen Kyle , Kutz J. Walter , Isaacson Brandon
Published: September 2013

Objective

To determine the frequency and clinical significance of abnormalities on postoperative computerized tomography (CT) scans performed within 24 hours after lateral skull base surgery.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Inpatient tertiary care hospital.

Methods

Adult patients undergoing lateral skull base surgery were identified using CPT code search from January 2010 to January 2013. Patient demographics, type of skull base lesion, surgical approach, length of operation, time between end of the surgery and CT scan, CT scan findings, and patients’ postsurgical neurologic status were collected.

Results

One hundred and seventy‐two patients were identified who had a postoperative CT scan after lateral skull base surgery. Diagnoses included schwannoma (95), cerebrospinal fluid fistula (29), middle fossa encephaloceles (9), meningioma (13), superior semicircular canal dehiscence (12), and other disease processes (14). The approaches were middle fossa (64), translabyrinthine (70), suboccipital (17), infratemporal (8), and combined/other (13). Mild pneumocephalus was almost always found, along with mild extra‐axial blood. Twenty‐four patients had significant mass effect found on CT scan, but this was present preoperatively. Three patients had a mild subdural without neurological decline. No patient suffered any clinically significant neurological decline, although 5 patients reported finger numbness that resolved spontaneously and 2 patients had confusion in the immediate postoperative period.

Conclusion

Clinically significant abnormalities on immediate postoperative CT scans were rare, as were cases of neurological decline. Further prospective studies could determine a more cost‐effective algorithm for routine use of postoperative imaging.
Does cannabis smoking predispose to lung bulla formation?
Authors: Fiorelli Alfonso , Accardo Marina , Vicidomini Giovanni , Messina Gaetana , Laperuta Paolo , Santini Mario
Published: September 2013

Objective

The data of a consecutive series of habitual marijuana smokers were retrospectively evaluated and compared with that of non-marijuana smokers to assess differences between the 2 groups.

Methods

13 consecutive habitual marijuana smokers were referred for treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax. The demographic, clinical, radiological, and pathological findings of these patients were reviewed and compared with 140 non-marijuana smokers treated for the same pathology at the same time.

Results

Bullae were seen in 8/13 (62%) and 110/140 (78%) of marijuana smokers and non-marijuana smokers, respectively. However, when patients less than 35-years old were considered, the incidence of bulla was higher in marijuana smokers than non-marijuana smokers (7/10 vs. 3/10, p < 0.05). The pathological findings showed a greater presence of inflammatory cells in specimens from marijuana smokers than those of non-marijuana smokers (8/11 vs. 2/42, respectively, p < 0.05). No significant differences in hospital stay and clinical outcome were registered between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Despite the fact that we were unable to demonstrate that marijuana had a causal role in the development of emphysema, our study showed that marijuana smokers had a higher incidence of inflammatory cells in pathological specimens, which may favor lung injury, thus predisposing to bulla formation.
Reduced embolic load during clinical cardiopulmonary bypass using a 20 micron arterial filter
Authors: Jabur GNS , Willcox TW , Zahidani SH , Sidhu K , Mitchell SJ
Published: September 2013

Objective:

To compare the efficiency of 20 and 40 µm arterial line filters during cardiopulmonary bypass for the removal of emboli from the extracorporeal circuit.

Methods:

Twenty-four adult patients undergoing surgery were perfused using a cardiopulmonary bypass circuit containing either a 20 µm or 40 µm arterial filter (n = 12 in both groups). The Emboli Detection and Classification system was used to count emboli upstream and downstream of the filter throughout cardiopulmonary bypass. The mean proportion of emboli removed by the filter was compared between the groups.

Results:

The 20 µm filter removed a significantly greater proportion of incoming emboli (0.621) than the 40 µm filter (0.334) (p=0.029). The superiority of the 20 µm filter persisted across all size groups of emboli larger than the pore size of the 40 µm filter.

Conclusion:

The 20 µm filter removed substantially more emboli than the 40 µm filter during cardiopulmonary bypass in this comparison.
NetTweens
Authors: Tiggemann Marika , Slater Amy
Published: September 2013

The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between media exposure and body image concerns in preteenage girls, with a particular focus on the Internet. A sample of 189 girls (aged 10-12 years) completed questionnaire measures of media consumption and body image concerns. Nearly all girls (97.5%) had access to the Internet in their home. Time spent on-line was significantly related to internalization of the thin ideal (as was time reading magazines and watching television), body surveillance, reduced body esteem, and increased dieting. In accord with the sociocultural model, internalization mediated the effect of the Internet on body image concerns. Further, 14% of the girls had a MySpace profile and 43% had a Facebook profile. Time spent on these social networking sites produced stronger correlations with body image concern than did overall Internet exposure. It was concluded that the Internet represents a potent sociocultural force among preteenage girls.
The effect of mud therapy on pain relief in patients with knee osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liu Hua , Zeng Chao , Gao Shu-guang , Yang Tuo , Luo Wei , Li Yu-sheng , Xiong Yi-lin , Sun Jin-peng , Lei Guang-hua
Published: September 2013

Objectives

A meta-analysis was conducted to examine the effect of mud therapy on pain relief in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

A detailed search of PubMed®/MEDLINE® was undertaken to identify randomized controlled trials and prospective comparative studies published before 9 March 2013 that compared mud therapy with control group treatments in patients with knee OA.

Results

A quantitative meta-analysis of seven studies (410 patients) was performed. There was a significant difference between the groups in the visual analogue scale pain score (standardized mean difference [SMD] −0.73) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index pain score (SMD −0.30), with differences in favour of mud therapy.

Conclusions

Mud therapy is a favourable option for pain relief in patients with knee OA. Additional high-quality randomized controlled trials need to be conducted to explore this issue further and to confirm this conclusion.
Tracheal intubation in intellectually disabled patients: Clinical usefulness of remifentanil and sevoflurane without a muscle relaxant
Authors: Cagiran Esra , Eyigor Can , Balcioglu Taner , Uyar Meltem
Published: September 2013

Objective

To compare two remifentanil doses (1 µg/kg and 2 µg/kg) in order to determine the preferred dose in intellectually disabled patients undergoing day care dental surgery under sevoflurane-induced general anaesthesia.

Methods

Patients were randomly assigned to receive either 1 µg/kg (group 1) or 2 µg/kg (group 2) remifentanil; both groups received 8% sevoflurane anaesthesia induction. All other conditions were identical in both groups. Heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intubation conditions were assessed.

Results

A total of 27/30 (90.0%) patients in group 1 and 29/30 patients (96.7%) in group 2 had acceptable intubation conditions. Remifentanil administration resulted in significant reductions in HR compared with baseline levels, in both groups. There were no significant between-group differences in HR at any timepoint. MAP decreased significantly compared with baseline in group 2 only.

Conclusion

Successful tracheal intubation in intellectually disabled patients can be accomplished with a combination of 1 µg/kg or 2 µg/kg remifentanil and 8% sevoflurane anaesthesia induction, without the requirement for neuromuscular blocking drugs.
Three single nucleotide polymorphisms of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene and glioma risk in a Chinese population
Authors: Jiang Haitao , Lian Minxue , Xie Jiangtao , Li Jinzheng , Wang Maode
Published: September 2013

Objective

To investigate the association between three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the vascular endothelial growth factor ( VEGF) gene and the risk of glioma in a Han Chinese population.

Methods

This hospital-based case–control study used polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis to detect three SNPs (−634 G/C, +936 C/T and +1612 G/A) of the VEGF gene in patients with glioma compared with healthy control subjects.

Results

The study investigated 880 patients with gliomas and 880 age- and sex-matched healthy control subjects. Patients with gliomas had a significantly higher frequency of the −634 CC genotype (odds ratio [OR] 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05, 1.75) and the +936 TT (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.20, 2.48) genotype compared with the control subjects. Patients with glioblastomas had a significantly higher frequency of the −634 CC and +936 TT genotypes. Patients with grade IV gliomas had a significantly higher frequency of the −634 CC and +936 TT genotypes. The +1612 G/A polymorphisms were not associated with glioma risk.

Conclusion

The VEGF − 634 CC and +936 TT genotypes were associated with a higher risk of glioma in a Han Chinese population.
Phenotypic Characterization of the KK/HlJ Inbred Mouse Strain
Authors: Berndt A. , Sundberg B. A. , Silva K. A. , Kennedy V. E. , Richardson M. A. , Li Q. , Bronson R. T. , Uitto J. , Sundberg J. P.
Published: September 2013

Detailed histopathological diagnoses of inbred mouse strains are important for interpreting research results and defining novel models of human diseases. The aim of this study was to histologically detect lesions affecting the KK/HlJ inbred strain. Mice were examined at 6, 12, and 20 months of age and near natural death (ie, moribund mice). Histopathological lesions were quantified by percentage of affected mice per age group and sex. Predominant lesions were mineralization, hyperplasia, and fibro-osseous lesions. Mineralization was most frequently found in the connective tissue dermal sheath of vibrissae, the heart, and the lung. Mineralization was also found in many other organs but to a lesser degree. Hyperplasia was found most commonly in the pancreatic islets, and fibro-osseous lesions were observed in several bones. The percentage of lesions increased with age until 20 months. This study shows that KK/HlJ mice demonstrate systemic aberrant mineralization, with greatest frequency in aged mice. The detailed information about histopathological lesions in the inbred strain KK/HlJ can help investigators to choose the right model and correctly interpret the experimental results.
The Effects of Tumor Location on Diagnostic Criteria for Canine Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumors (MPNSTs) and the Markers for Distinction Between Canine MPNSTs and Canine Perivascular Wall Tumors
Authors: Suzuki S. , Uchida K. , Nakayama H.
Published: September 2013

Canine malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) occur not only in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) but also in soft tissue and various organs (non-PNS). The most important diagnostic criterion is proof of peripheral nerve sheath origin. This is difficult in non-PNS MPNSTs, and its differential diagnosis is challenging. Canine perivascular wall tumors (PWTs) also commonly arise in soft tissue. Their histopathological features are quite similar to those of canine MPNSTs, making their differential diagnosis challenging. To elucidate whether the morphological features are applicable to diagnose non-PNS MPNSTs and to demonstrate useful markers for distinction between canine MPNSTs and PWTs, the authors examined 30 canine MPNSTs and 31 PWTs immunohistochemically for S100, nestin, NGFR, Olig2, claudin-1, CD57, PRX, α-SMA, desmin, and calponin. Among canine MPNSTs, the PNS tumors displayed significantly higher S100 and Olig2 expression than the non-PNS tumors. The expression levels of the other markers did not differ significantly, suggesting that the same morphological diagnostic criteria are applicable regardless of their location. The PWT cells displayed significantly weaker immunoreactivity than MPNSTs to markers used except α-SMA and desmin. Cluster analysis sorted most canine MPNSTs and PWTs into 2 distinctly different clusters, whereas 3 MPNSTs and 6 PWTs were assigned to the opposing cluster. These 3 MPNSTs were negative for almost all markers, while these 6 PWTs were positive for only neuronal markers. In particular, NGFR and Olig2 were almost negative in the rest of PWT cases. These findings suggest that NGFR and Olig2 are useful to distinguish these 2 tumors.
Suture Anchor Fixation of Bony Bankart Fractures
Authors: Giles Joshua W. , Puskas Gabor J. , Welsh Mark F. , Johnson James A. , Athwal George S.
Published: September 2013

Background:

As an alternative to the standard single-point suture-anchor technique, a suture-bridge technique has been described for the treatment of bony Bankart fractures. There is, however, little evidence supporting one technique over the other.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To compare the failure strength, fixation stability, and loading mechanics of the 2 techniques for the fixation of bony Bankart fractures. We hypothesized that use of the double-point suture-bridge technique would result in superior strength and fixation stability because of the increased compression and contact area between the bony fragment and glenoid fracture site.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 16 shoulders (8 pairs) were tested with an intact glenoid, after creation of a 15% bony Bankart fracture, and after fragment fixation using a single-point or suture-bridge technique. Paired specimens were randomly assigned to each technique. Cyclic progressive loading was applied via a materials testing machine to the glenoid concentrically and eccentrically according to a staircase protocol. Failure strength, fragment displacement, glenoid strain load transfer, and contact area were quantified.

Results:

No significant differences in failure strength were found between the single-point and suture-bridge techniques (mean strength, 74 ± 28 N vs 77 ± 56 N, respectively; P = .91). Additionally, no significant differences were found for glenoid load transfer ( P ≥ .318) and glenohumeral joint contact ( P = .357) between the 2 techniques. Centralized loading, however, produced significant differences in fragment displacement at 5, 150, and 200 N ( P ≤ .045), with the single-point technique permitting greater fragment displacement in all cases (0.06-0.28 mm). Similarly, eccentric loading caused significantly greater fragment displacement with the single-point technique at ≥25 N compared with the suture-bridge technique (mean range, 0.38-0.63 mm vs 0.14-0.19 mm, respectively; .009 ≤ P ≤ .048).

Conclusion:

Single-point and suture-bridge techniques for the fixation of bony Bankart fragments have equivalent failure strengths and load transfers. The suture-bridge technique does provide statistically greater initial fracture fragment stability; however, the clinical implications of this are presently unknown.

Clinical Relevance:

This study will aid in the selection of the optimal repair technique for bony Bankart fractures by providing important insights into the quality of initial fixation and ultimate strength.
Clinical Outcomes After Chronic Distal Biceps Reconstruction With Allografts
Authors: Snir Nimrod , Hamula Mathew , Wolfson Theodore , Meislin Robert , Strauss Eric J. , Jazrawi Laith M.
Published: September 2013

Background:

Chronic ruptures of the distal biceps are often complicated by tendon retraction and fibrosis, precluding primary repair. Reconstruction with allograft augmentation has been proposed as an alternative for cases not amenable to primary repair.

Purpose:

To investigate the clinical outcomes of late distal biceps reconstruction using allograft tissue.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 20 patients who underwent distal biceps reconstruction with allograft tissue between May 2007 and May 2012 were identified. Charts were retrospectively reviewed for postoperative complications, gross flexion and supination strength, and range of motion. Subjective functional outcomes were assessed prospectively with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire.

Results:

Eighteen patients with adequate follow-up were included in the study. All had undergone late distal biceps reconstruction with allografts (Achilles [n = 15], semitendinosus [n = 1], gracilis [n = 1], or anterior tibialis [n = 1]) for symptomatic chronic ruptures of the distal biceps. At a mean office follow-up of 9.3 months (range, 4-14 months), all patients had full range of motion and mean gross strength of 4.7 of 5 (range, 4-5) in flexion and supination. After a mean out-of-office follow-up at 21 months (range, 7-68.8 months), the mean DASH score was 7.5 ± 17.9, and the mean MEPS increased from 43.1 preoperatively to 94.2 postoperatively ( P < .001). The only complication observed was transient posterior interosseous nerve palsy in 2 patients. Additionally, all but 1 patient reported a cosmetic deformity. However, all patients found it acceptable.

Conclusion:

Late reconstruction for chronic ruptures of the distal biceps using allograft tissue is a safe and effective solution for symptomatic patients with functional demands in forearm supination and elbow flexion. While there are several graft options, the literature supports good results with Achilles tendon allografts. Further studies are needed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of other allograft options.
Improving Multiplication Strategic Development in Children With Math Difficulties
Authors: Zhang Dake , Xin Yan Ping , Harris Karleah , Ding Yi
Published: September 2013

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of a strategic training program for improving students’ performance in solving multiplication problems. The participants were 3 third graders with math difficulties. In this teaching experiment, microgenetic analysis was used to analyze improvement in students’ strategic development and problem-solving accuracy. The instructional components included selective task assignment and OFSD (encouraging students to use Own strategy to solve problems, providing Feedback, asking for students’ Self-explanations, and explicit Demonstration of strategies when needed). The results showed that the three participants began the intervention at different strategic developmental levels and consequently were given differentiated tasks to promote their strategic development during the intervention. In response to the intervention, the three participants improved their problem-solving accuracy, use of advanced strategies, and flexibility in choosing backup strategies.
The Immigrant and Hispanic Paradoxes
Authors: Teruya Stacey A. , Bazargan-Hejazi Shahrzad
Published: September 2013

A survey of the literature indicates that reported advantages of the Immigrant and Hispanic Paradox are inconsistent and equivocal. The healthy migrant hypothesis also suggests that current research approaches consider only “healthy” groups. Other methodological concerns include the simple underreporting of deaths, and that commonly used databases may not include all significant attributes and characteristics. We conducted a systematic review, synthesizing and identifying themes not explicitly found in the current literature. We also employ a simple quantitative index to assess the scholarly strength of references. Paradox protection appears uneven and is not generalizable across races, ethnicities, age groups and genders. In addition, acculturation, health behaviors and diet, ethnicity, acculturative stress, adolescence, undocumented and uninsured status, age of arrival in the United States and length of exposure, gender and age appear to be significant in predicting any beneficial effects.
A Longitudinal Study of Social Capital and Acculturation-Related Stress Among Recent Latino Immigrants in South Florida
Authors: Concha Maritza , Sanchez Mariana , Rosa Mario de la , Villar María Elena
Published: September 2013

This study uses social capital to assess the effects of social support on acculturation-related stress among recently immigrated Hispanics in South Florida before and after immigration. At baseline ( N = 527), first 12 months in the United States, acculturative stress was negatively related to support from friends ( p < .044) and positively related to support from parents ( p < .023). At first follow-up ( n = 415), 24 months in the United States, emotional/informational support was negatively associated with acculturation-related stress ( p < .028). In the second follow-up ( n = 478), 36 months in the United States, support from children was negatively associated with acculturation-related stress ( p < .016). Limited English proficiency was found to be negatively associated with acculturation stress at all three points ( p < .001, p < .025, and p < .001, respectively). Implications of this study can be used in the design of culturally appropriate and family-oriented interventions for recent immigrants to ease the acculturation process.
Experimental U.S. Census Bureau Race and Hispanic Origin Survey Questions
Authors: Terry Rodney L. , Fond Marissa
Published: September 2013

People of Hispanic origin, including monolingual Spanish speakers, have experienced difficulty identifying with a race category on U.S. demographic surveys. As part of a larger research effort by the U.S. Census Bureau to improve race and Hispanic origin questions for the 2020 Census, we tested experimental versions of race and Hispanic origin questions in Spanish. About half of the versions asked about race and Hispanic origin in separate questions, while the rest asked about these constructs in a combined question format. Cognitive interviews with 33 monolingual Spanish-speaking participants indicated that (a) most participants affirmatively claimed Hispanic origin on the separate and combined formats, but had difficulty selecting or declined to select a race category on the separate question formats and (b) most participants perceived few differences between Hispanic origin and race. In comparison with the separate race and Hispanic origin questions, the combined question facilitated more satisfactory self-identifications.
Large Animal Models for Batten Disease
Authors: Weber Krystal , Pearce David A.
Published: September 2013

The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, collectively referred to as Batten disease, make up a group of inherited childhood disorders that result in blindness, motor and cognitive regression, brain atrophy, and seizures, ultimately leading to premature death. So far more than 10 genes have been implicated in different forms of the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses. Most related research has involved mouse models, but several naturally occurring large animal models have recently been discovered. In this review, we discuss the different large animal models and their significance in Batten disease research.
Regional Brain Atrophy in Mouse Models of Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis
Authors: Kühl Thomas G. , Dihanich Sybille , Wong Andrew M. S. , Cooper Jonathan D.
Published: September 2013

The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (Batten disease) are collectively the most common inherited neurodegenerative disorder of childhood. Mouse models of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis represent a powerful resource for investigating the underlying disease mechanisms, which remain poorly understood. Here we present a new rostrocaudal analysis of regional brain volume rather than focusing on central nervous system structures that can be affected. This has revealed an earlier onset of regional atrophy than was suspected in infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (or CLN1 disease, infantile), with a greater involvement of rostral structures. We have also provided the first description of regional atrophy in severely affected mice with the juvenile variant (CLN3 disease, juvenile). These data reveal new perspectives on how the central nervous system is affected in these disorders, which have implications for judging the efficacy of therapeutic strategies in preclinical studies.
Treatment of the Ppt1–/– Mouse Model of Infantile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis With the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) Receptor Antagonist Memantine
Authors: Finn Rozzy , Kovács Attila D. , Pearce David A.
Published: September 2013

The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses, a family of neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders, represent the most common cause of pediatric-onset neurodegeneration. The infantile form has a devastatingly early onset and one of the fastest-progressing disease courses. Despite decades of research, the molecular mechanisms driving neuronal loss in infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis remain unknown. We have previously shown that N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)–type glutamate receptors in the Ppt1–/– mouse model of this disease exhibit a hyperfunctional phenotype and postulate that aberrant glutamatergic activity may contribute to neural pathology in both the mouse model and human patients. To test this hypothesis, we treated Ppt1–/– mice with the NMDA receptor antagonist memantine and assessed their response to the drug using an accelerating rotarod. At 20 mg/kg, memantine treatment induced a delayed but notable improvement in Ppt1–/– mice. Much remains to be assessed before moving to patient trials, but these results suggest memantine has potential as a treatment.
Neurobehavioral Features and Natural History of Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (Batten Disease)
Authors: Adams Heather R. , Mink Jonathan W. ,   University of Rochester Batten Center Study Group
Published: September 2013

Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis is a childhood-onset neurodegenerative disease with prominent symptoms comprising a pediatric dementia syndrome: intellectual decline, mood and behavioral impairments, and loss of adaptive skills. We review the history of neurobehavioral features in juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis and the work of the University of Rochester Batten Center to characterize the extent and progression of neurobehavioral symptoms over the disease course, and discuss the relevance of neurobehavioral studies as an aid to understanding the clinical phenotype of juvenile Batten disease and potential targets for intervention.
Clinical Trials in Rare Disease
Authors: Augustine Erika F. , Adams Heather R. , Mink Jonathan W.
Published: September 2013

The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses constitute one of many groups of rare childhood diseases for which disease-modifying treatments are nonexistent. Disease-specific barriers to therapeutic success include incomplete understanding of disease pathophysiology and limitations of treatments that cannot adequately cross the blood-brain barrier to access the central nervous system. Therapeutic development in the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses shares many challenges with other rare diseases, such as incomplete understanding of natural history to inform trial design, need for alternatives to the randomized controlled clinical trial, requirement for more sensitive outcome measures to quantify disease, limited access to resources required to mount a clinical trial (including funding), and difficulties of recruiting a small sample to participation. Solutions to these barriers will require multicenter collaboration, partnership with patient organizations, training a new generation of researchers interested in rare diseases, and leveraging existing resources.
Binary lipids-based nanostructured lipid carriers for improved oral bioavailability of silymarin
Authors: Shangguan Mingzhu , Lu Yi , Qi Jianping , Han Jin , Tian Zhiqiang , Xie Yunchang , Hu Fuqiang , Yuan Hailong , Wu Wei
Published: September 2013

The main purpose of this study was to prepare binary lipids-based nanostructured lipid carriers to improve the oral bioavailability of silymarin, a poorly water-soluble liver protectant. Silymarin-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers were prepared by the method of high-pressure homogenization with glycerol distearates (Precirol ATO-5) and oleic acid as the solid and liquid lipids, respectively, and lecithin (Lipoid E 100) and Tween-80 as the emulsifiers. The silymarin-nanostructured lipid carrier prepared under optimum conditions was spherical in shape with mean particle size of ∼78.87 nm, entrapment efficiency of 87.55%, loading capacity of 8.32%, and zeta potential of −65.3 mV, respectively. In vitro release of silymarin-nanostructured lipid carriers was very limited even after 12 h, while in vitro lipolysis showed fast digestion of nanostructured lipid carriers within 1 h. Relative oral bioavailability of silymarin-nanostructured lipid carriers in Beagle dogs was 2.54- and 3.10-fold that of marketed Legalon® and silymarin solid dispersion pellets, respectively. It was concluded that nanostructured lipid carriers were potential drug delivery systems to improve the bioavailability of silymarin. Other than improved dissolution, alternative mechanisms such as facilitated absorption as well as lymphatic transport may contribute to bioavailability enhancement.
Mechanical properties, Payne effect, and Mullins effect of thermoplastic vulcanizates based on high-impact polystyrene and styrene–butadiene rubber compatibilized by styrene–butadiene–styrene block copolymer
Authors: Wang Zhaobo , Li Shuai , Wei Dongya , Zhao Jian
Published: September 2013

Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) based on high-impact polystyrene (HIPS)/styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) blends were prepared by dynamic vulcanization technique, and the TPVs were compatibilized by styrene–butadiene–styrene block copolymer (SBS). Experimental results indicate that SBS had a good compatibilization effect on the HIPS/SBR TPVs. A rubber process analyzer reveals that elastic modulus increased with increasing frequency and increasing SBR content in the TPVs led to obvious decrease in elastic modulus. A softening phenomenon could be observed in the stress–stretch curves of HIPS/SBR and HIPS/SBS/SBR TPVs during the uniaxial loading–unloading cycles. Compatibilized HIPS/SBR TPV had the relatively lower stress and internal friction loss.
Development of a thermoacoustic travelling-wave engine
Authors: Lawn Chris
Published: September 2013

The objective of the study is to develop a thermoacoustic generator of 100 W of electricity that is powered by the heat of a wood-burning stove, which is cheap to produce and easy to maintain. Attention has been concentrated on an unpressurised, air-filled acoustic duct in a looped configuration designed to generate a travelling-wave. The heat transfer to the hot-end of the acoustic regenerator in this loop is through a steel plate that forms the top of the combustion chamber. The regenerator is of the woven-steel mesh design, and the acoustic losses and conductivity of two grades of this material have been determined outside the loop. The regenerator and heat exchangers were first tested with acoustic oscillations produced by a pair of sub-woofers. These results, and those from a simple theory for regenerator efficiency, are described. With both meshes and various configurations of loop, spontaneous oscillations with acoustic pressures up to 2500 Pa have been generated in the range 70–90 Hz. These have driven a linear alternator built by Nottingham University to produce 9.6 W. Numerous attempts to improve on this performance, involving tuning the loop and the alternator, are discussed. Mathematical models of the alternator, the loop thermoacoustics and the interaction with the radiant heat exchange from the flame are shown to describe the observations, and these will guide future development.
Justice Climate and Peer Justice Climate
Authors: Li Andrew , Cropanzano Russell , Bagger Jessica
Published: September 2013

We provide an empirical examination of peer justice climate, defined as team-level judgments of the fairness with which coworkers generally treat one another, and justice climate, defined as team-level judgments of the fairness with which the team is collectively treated by an authority figure. Based on previous theoretical work, we tested a hierarchical structural model determining that peer justice climate was best represented as three first-order factors, which combine into a single second-order dimension. We found a similar two-level structure for justice climate. We also found that the relationship between peer justice climate and team satisfaction was mediated by cooperative team process.
Using Cartoons to Teach About Perfectionism
Authors: Rule Audrey C. , Montgomery Sarah E.
Published: September 2013

Cartoon interpretation and production are teaching strategies that can assist students in a deeper understanding of concepts and practice of higher level thinking skills while motivating them through humor. This article presents an extended example of graduate students in an introductory course in gifted education creating humorous cartoons to explore major ideas and different types of perfectionism. General concepts of adaptive (positive) and maladaptive (negative) perfectionism, along with causes and mitigations, are discussed and illustrated with student-made cartoons. Students reported that creating cartoons was intrinsically motivating, promoted deeper levels of content learning, facilitated application of concepts, and aided self- and overall reflection on the topic. The process of the cartoon project and examples of student-generated cartoons are provided to promote practicing educators and teacher educators with ways of adapting this teaching strategy.
Multiliteracies Theory and Gifted Education
Authors: Olthouse Jill M.
Published: September 2013

Multiliteracies theory redefines what it means to be a literate, learned person by transferring the focus from a shared knowledge of Standard English to the ability to engage in creative cultural critique. Multiliteracies theory has implications for how educators identify and teach students gifted in language arts. This article describes how multiliteracies theorists have redefined literacy as being multimodal, situated, and having a social purpose. It further explores the four elements of multiliteracies pedagogy (situated practice, overt instruction, critical framing, and transformed practice) as these relate to gifted education in the language arts through curriculum units at the high school, middle school, and elementary school level.
“A Series of Unfortunate Events”
Authors: Krause Margaret B.
Published: September 2013

In this article, the author takes a critical look at what counts as literacy for preadolescent and adolescent talented boys. Arguably, there exists a population of boys who demonstrate strong verbal abilities, as measured by standardized verbal assessments and classroom performance, yet indicate a lack of enthusiasm when encountering print-based texts in authentic environments. This article postulates why this particular group of talented boys are often perceived as unmotivated readers with poor attitudes toward literacy tasks. The author argues that traditional conceptualizations of literacy as reliant on print forms of text are outdated and unresponsive to the dynamic changes of the 21st century, thus, creating a potentially marginalized group of learners. Furthermore, the author argues that the lack of responsiveness to dynamic and multimodal characteristics of the globalized world contribute to the perceived lack of motivation talented boys demonstrate in school-based literacy spaces.
“Nobody Loves a Fat Man”
Authors: Forth Christopher E.
Published: September 2013

This article uses the proverb “nobody loves a fat man” to examine the interplay between representations of masculinity, physique, and “appetite” in American culture during the first half of the twentieth century, with special attention to depictions of fat characters in Hollywood thrillers designated as “film noir.” By emphasizing how fluidly the concept of “appetite” facilitated connections between the sexual and the culinary, it argues that fat criminals in film noir embody long-standing yet contradictory ideas about manhood, consumption, and desire. To support this claim, the article (1) explicates film noir as a site for examining the instability of masculinity; (2) probes the historical background to perceptions of fat males as weak, impulsive, and perverse; (3) examines representations of fat criminals in select films noirs; and (4) reveals cinematic instances where the virtues of male domesticity smoothed out the perceived incongruence between manhood and fatness.
Considering Emma
Authors: Hemmings Clare
Published: September 2013

This article considers the importance of the anarchist thinker and activist Emma Goldman (1869–1940) for contemporary feminist theory and politics. Initially concerned with how Goldman’s views on power and change help us reconsider our own history and present, the author shifts gears in the course of the article to think aspects of her thought that are less easily reclaimed. Exploring her own and others’ desire for Goldman to resolve current difficulties within and beyond feminism, the author highlights the problems this desire presents for both our understanding of the past, and our ability adequately to engage the present. Focusing instead on the importance of fantasy in our accounting for the relationship between past and present, the author explores our desires to consign judgement and essence to another era.
Visual evoked potentials in neuromyelitis optica and its spectrum disorders
Authors: Ringelstein Marius , Kleiter Ingo , Ayzenberg Ilya , Borisow Nadja , Paul Friedemann , Ruprecht Klemens , Kraemer Markus , Cohn Eva , Wildemann Brigitte , Jarius Sven , Hartung Hans-Peter , Aktas Orhan , Albrecht Philipp
Published: September 2013

Optic neuritis (ON) is a key feature of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Recently, NMO patients of predominantly Afro-Brazilian origin were evaluated by visual evoked potentials (VEPs) and showed marked amplitude reductions. Here, we analyzed VEPs in a predominantly Caucasian cohort, consisting of 43 patients with definite NMO, 18 with anti-aquaporin (AQP) 4 antibody-seropositive NMO spectrum disorders and 61 matched healthy controls. We found reduced amplitudes in only 12.3%, prolonged latencies in 41.9% and a lack of response in 14.0% of NMO eyes. Delayed P100 latencies in eyes without prior ON suggested this was a subclinical affection. The data indicate heterogenous patterns in NMO, warranting further investigation.
Compensation of piezoceramic bonding layer degradation for structural health monitoring
Authors: Mulligan Kyle R , Quaegebeur Nicolas , Masson Patrice , Brault Louis-Philippe , Yang Chunsheng
Published: September 2013

The compensation of the degradation of the bonding layer of piezoceramics used in structural health monitoring is addressed in this article. A simple admittance model is first used to measure and extract the variation of admittance parameters using the same acquisition chain which is used by the structural health monitoring system for damage monitoring. More precisely, the method uses measurable changes in physical transducer modal damping at frequencies around piezoceramic resonance to estimate the extent of degradation. Then, a finite element model is used to obtain calibration curves linking the variations in transducer modal damping to amplitude and phase of the ultrasonic signals generated or measured by the piezoceramics. Such calibration curves are obtained by simulating with the FEM the effect of varying the bonding layer coverage area and Young’s modulus on (a) admittance and (b) amplitude and phase of the ultrasonic signals. From this, a signal correction factor is developed for the dominant bonding layer coverage area degradation failure mode to compensate for the changes in amplitude and phase of guided waves generated and measured by degraded piezoceramic transducers. The measured modal damping determines the amount of bonding layer degradation from the simulated modal damping calibration curves and then the quantified bonding layer degradation amount selects the amplitude and phase correction to be applied to measured signals from the calibration curves. The benefits of the signal correction factor are demonstrated below piezoceramic resonance to improve damage imaging and localization using the Embedded Ultrasonic Structural Radar algorithm (delay and sum method) when a single transducer in a sparse array of transducers fixed to an aluminum plate is damaged due to the close proximity of drop-weight impacts. Up to a certain damage extent, the signal correction factor could allow an extension of the service life of the structural health monitoring system.
Lamb wave Structural Health Monitoring Using a Hybrid PZT-Laser Vibrometer Approach
Authors: Yu Lingyu , Tian Zhenhua
Published: September 2013

Lamb waves are dispersive and multi-modal, which makes the interpretation of Lamb wave signals very difficult in either the time or frequency domain. In the this article, we present our studies on Lamb wave propagation characterization and crack detection using a hybrid lead zirconate titanate (PZT)-laser vibrometer system and frequency–wave number analysis. A scanning laser Doppler vibrometer is used to acquiring high-resolution time–space Lamb wavefield excited by a PZT actuator. The recorded wavefield is then transformed to frequency–wave number domain by two-dimensional Fourier transform. Wave spectrum in the frequency–wave number domain shows clear distinction among Lamb wave modes being present. These concepts are illustrated through several experimental tests. However, the space information is lost during this transformation. A short-space two-dimensional Fourier transform is then adopted to obtain the frequency–wave number spectra at various spatial locations, resulting in the space–frequency–wave number representation, which can show how the frequency–wave number component varies with respect to space dimension. It provides a means to study the wave propagation from the perspective of wave number domain. The space–frequency–wave number analysis has successfully been used for the study of wave interaction with structural discontinuity and crack detection on an aluminum plate.