bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional profiling of genes that are regulated by the endoplasmic reticulum-bound transcription factor AIbZIP/CREB3L4 in prostate cells
Authors: Aicha Sonia Ben , Lessard Julie , Pelletier Mélissa , Fournier Andréa , Calvo Ezequiel , Labrie Claude
Published: August 2007

The androgen-regulated protein androgen-induced bZIP (AIbZIP) is a bZIP transcription factor that localizes to the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The physiological role of AIbZIP is unknown, but other ER-bound transcription factors such as ATF6 and SREBPs play a crucial role in the regulation of protein processing and lipid synthesis, respectively. In response to alterations in the intracellular milieu, ATF6 and SREBPs are processed to their transcriptionally active forms by regulated intramembrane proteolysis. In humans, AIbZIP mRNA is expressed in several organs including the pancreas, liver, and gonads, but it is especially abundant in prostate epithelial cells. We therefore used LNCaP human prostate cancer cells as a model to identify stimuli that lead to AIbZIP activation and define the transcriptional targets of AIbZIP. In LNCaP cells, AIbZIP was processed to its transcriptionally active form by drugs that deplete ER calcium stores (i.e., A23187 and caffeine), but it was unaffected by an inhibitor of protein glycosylation (tunicamycin). To identify AIbZIP-regulated genes, we generated LNCaP cell lines that conditionally express the processed form of AIbZIP and used Affymetrix microarrays to screen for AIbZIP-regulated transcripts. Selected genes ( n = 48) were validated by Northern blot hybridization. The results reveal that the downstream targets of AIbZIP include genes that are implicated in protein processing (e.g., BAG3, DNAJC12, KDELR3). Strikingly, a large number of AIbZIP-regulated transcripts encode proteins that are involved in transcriptional regulation, small molecule transport, signal transduction, and metabolism. These results suggest that AIbZIP plays a novel role in cell homeostasis.
Depression and Internet Addiction in Adolescents
Authors: Ha Jee Hyun , Kim Su Yeon , Bae Soojeong C. , Bae Sujin , Kim Hyungjun , Sim Minyoung , Lyoo In Kyoon , Cho Soo Churl
Published: August 2007

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between depression and Internet addiction among adolescents. Sampling and Method: A total of 452 Korean adolescents were studied. First, they were evaluated for their severity of Internet addiction with consideration of their behavioral characteristics and their primary purpose for computer use. Second, we investigated correlations between Internet addiction and depression, alcohol dependence and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Third, the relationship between Internet addiction and biogenetic temperament as assessed by the Temperament and Character Inventory was evaluated. Results: Internet addiction was significantly associated with depressive symptoms and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Regarding biogenetic temperament and character patterns, high harm avoidance, low self-directedness, low cooperativeness and high self-transcendence were correlated with Internet addiction. In multivariate analysis, among clinical symptoms depression was most closely related to Internet addiction, even after controlling for differences in biogenetic temperament. Conclusions: This study reveals a significant association between Internet addiction and depressive symptoms in adolescents. This association is supported by temperament profiles of the Internet addiction group. The data suggest the necessity of the evaluation of the potential underlying depression in the treatment of Internet-addicted adolescents.
The Spectrum of Fungal Allergy
Authors: Simon-Nobbe Birgit , Denk Ursula , Pöll Verena , Rid Raphaela , Breitenbach Michael
Published: August 2007

Fungi can be found throughout the world. They may live as saprophytes, parasites or symbionts of animals and plants in indoor as well as outdoor environment. For decades, fungi belonging to the ascomycota as well as to the basidiomycota have been known to cause a broad panel of human disorders. In contrast to pollen, fungal spores and/or mycelial cells may not only cause type I allergy, the most prevalent disease caused by molds, but also a large number of other illnesses, including allergic bronchopulmonary mycoses, allergic sinusitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis and atopic dermatitis; and, again in contrast to pollen-derived allergies, fungal allergies are frequently linked with allergic asthma. Sensitization to molds has been reported in up to 80% of asthmatic patients. Although research on fungal allergies dates back to the 19th century, major improvements in the diagnosis and therapy of mold allergy have been hampered by the fact that fungal extracts are highly variable in their protein composition due to strain variabilities, batch-to-batch variations, and by the fact that extracts may be prepared from spores and/or mycelial cells. Nonetheless, about 150 individual fungal allergens from approximately 80 mold genera have been identified in the last 20 years. First clinical studies with recombinant mold allergens have demonstrated their potency in clinical diagnosis. This review aims to give an overview of the biology of molds and diseases caused by molds in humans, as well as a detailed summary of the latest results on recombinant fungal allergens.
Distinct Downregulation of C-Type Natriuretic Peptide System in Human Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Peltonen Tuomas O. , Taskinen Panu , Soini Ylermi , Rysä Jaana , Ronkainen Jarkko , Ohtonen Pasi , Satta Jari , Juvonen Tatu , Ruskoaho Heikki , Leskinen Hanna
Published: August 2007

Background—

Aortic valve calcification is an actively regulated process that displays hallmarks of atherosclerosis. Natriuretic peptides (A-, B-, and C-type natriuretic peptides [ANP, BNP, and CNP]) have been reported to have a role in the pathogenesis of vascular atherosclerosis, but their expression in aortic valves is not known. Here, we characterized and compared expression of natriuretic peptide system in aortic valves of patients with normal valves (n=4), aortic regurgitation (n=11), regurgitation and fibrosis (n=6), and aortic valve stenosis (n=21).

Methods and Results—

By reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, all 3 natriuretic peptides were found to be expressed in aortic valves. CNP mRNA levels were 92% lower (
P
<0.001) in stenotic valves, whereas no significant changes in the expression of ANP and BNP genes were found compared with valves obtained from patients with aortic regurgitation. CNP was localized by immunohistochemistry with specific CNP (32-53) antibody to valvular endothelial cells and myofibroblasts. Gene expression of furin, which proteolytically cleaves proCNP into active CNP, was 54% lower in aortic valve stenosis (
P
=0.04). Moreover, natriuretic peptide receptor-A and natriuretic peptide receptor-B mRNA levels were 78% and 76% lower, respectively, in stenotic valves. In contrast, gene expression of corin, a proANP- and proBNP-converting enzyme, and natriuretic peptide receptor-C did not differ between groups.

Conclusions—

We show that natriuretic peptides, their processing enzymes, and their receptors are expressed in human aortic valves. Aortic valve stenosis is characterized by distinct downregulation of gene expression of CNP, its processing enzyme furin, and the target receptors natriuretic peptide receptor-B and natriuretic peptide receptor-A, which suggests that CNP acts as a paracrine regulator of the aortic valve calcification process.
Influence of Inpatient Service Specialty on Care Processes and Outcomes for Patients With Non–ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Roe Matthew T. , Chen Anita Y. , Mehta Rajendra H. , Li Yun , Brindis Ralph G. , Smith Sidney C. , Rumsfeld John S. , Gibler W. Brian , Ohman E. Magnus , Peterson Eric D.
Published: August 2007

Background—

Since the broad dissemination of practice guidelines, the association of specialty care with the treatment of patients with acute coronary syndromes has not been studied.

Methods and Results—

We evaluated 55 994 patients with non–ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (ischemic ST-segment changes and/or positive cardiac markers) included in the CRUSADE (Can Rapid Risk Stratification of Unstable Angina Patients Suppress Adverse Outcomes With Early Implementation of the ACC/AHA Guidelines) Quality Improvement Initiative from January 2001 through September 2003 at 301 tertiary US hospitals with full revascularization capabilities. We compared baseline characteristics, the use of American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines class I recommendations, and in-hospital outcomes by the specialty of the primary in-patient service (cardiology versus noncardiology). A total of 35 374 patients (63.2%) were primarily cared for by a cardiology service, and these patients had lower-risk clinical characteristics, but they more commonly received acute (≤24 hours) medications, invasive cardiac procedures, and discharge medications and lifestyle interventions. Acute care processes were improved when care was provided by a cardiology service regardless of the propensity to receive cardiology care. The adjusted risk of in-hospital mortality was lower with care provided by a cardiology service (adjusted odds ratio 0.80, 95% confidence interval 0.73 to 0.88), and adjustment for differences in the use of acute medications and invasive procedures partially attenuated this mortality difference (adjusted odds ratio 0.92, 95% confidence interval 0.83 to 1.02).

Conclusions—

Non–ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients primarily cared for by a cardiology inpatient service more commonly received evidence-based treatments and had a lower risk of mortality, but these patients had lower-risk clinical characteristics. Results from the present analysis highlight the difficulties with accurately determining how specialty care is associated with treatment patterns and clinical outcomes for patients with acute coronary syndromes. Novel methodologies for evaluating the influence of specialty care for these patients need to be developed and applied to future studies.
Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue Volumes Are Cross-Sectionally Related to Markers of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Pou Karla M. , Massaro Joseph M. , Hoffmann Udo , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Maurovich-Horvat Pal , Larson Martin G. , Keaney John F. , Meigs James B. , Lipinska Izabella , Kathiresan Sekar , Murabito Joanne M. , O’Donnell Christopher J. , Benjamin Emelia J. , Fox Caroline S.
Published: August 2007

Background—

Excess adiposity is associated with greater systemic inflammation. Whether visceral adiposity is more proinflammatory than subcutaneous abdominal adiposity is unclear.

Methods and Results—

We examined the relations of abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT), assessed by multidetector computerized tomography, to circulating inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in 1250 Framingham Heart Study participants (52% women; age 60±9 years). Biomarkers were examined in relation to increments of SAT and VAT after adjustment for age, sex, smoking, physical activity, menopause, hormone replacement therapy, alcohol, and aspirin use; additional models included body mass index and waist circumference. SAT and VAT were positively and similarly (with respect to strength of association) related to C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, interleukin-6, P-selectin, and tumor necrosis factor receptor-2 (multivariable model
R
2
0.06 to 0.28 [SAT] and 0.07 to 0.29 [VAT]). However, compared with SAT, VAT was more highly associated with urinary isoprostanes and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (SAT versus VAT comparison: isoprostanes,
R
2
0.07 versus 0.10,
P
=0.002; monocyte chemoattractant protein-1,
R
2
0.07 versus 0.08,
P
=0.04). When body mass index and waist circumference were added to the models, VAT remained significantly associated with only C-reactive protein (
P
=0.0003 for women;
P
=0.006 for men), interleukin-6 (
P
=0.01), isoprostanes (
P
=0.0002), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (
P
=0.008); SAT only remained associated with fibrinogen (
P
=0.01).

Conclusions—

The present cross-sectional data support an association between both SAT and VAT with inflammation and oxidative stress. The data suggest that the contribution of visceral fat to inflammation may not be completely accounted for by clinical measures of obesity (body mass index and waist circumference).
The Religion of the Market: Reflections on a Decade of Discussion
Authors: Foltz Richard
Published: August 2007

By the mid-1990s scholars of religion had begun to analyze the ideologies associated with global capitalism as a new, hegemonic world faith system, which some referred to as the Religion of the Market. Many have taken polemical positions, either arguing that it is a "false faith" which needs to be exposed, or that it is the appropriate faith for our times. Still others refuse to see global capitalism as a religion and reject the analytical paradigm altogether. This essay argues that describing the ideologies of global capitalism as the dominant faith system in the world today is indeed appropriate, and even necessary if one is fully to understand the role of religious belief and behavior in contemporary society. Moreover, since discussions of global capitalism as a faith system currently lack a coherent or widely recognized framework, adopting and refining the Religion of the Market paradigm will facilitate and improve future scholarly analysis of the faith dimensions of global economics.
Contributions to Anthropocosmic Environmental Ethics
Authors: Mickey Sam
Published: August 2007

This essay is an articulation of various contributions to anthropocosmic environmental ethics—an approach to environmental ethics emerging within the study of religion and ecology. In an anthropocosmic approach to environmental ethics, humans are intimately intertwined with the environment. Rather than placing value on a particular center (e. g., anthropocentric, biocentric, ecocentric) and thus excluding and marginalizing something of peripheral value, an anthropocosmic approach to ethics seeks to facilitate the mutual implication of humanity and the natural world, thereby affirming the interconnectedness and mutual constitution of central and peripheral value. Although the adjective "anthropocosmic" may seem obscure or vague, an examination of the genealogy of the term, beginning with its appearance in the works of Mircea Eliade, discloses numerous resources that have important contributions to make to the development of viable environmental ethics.
Irua Ria Atumia and Anti-Colonial Struggles Among the Gĩkũyũ of Kenya: A Counter Narrative on “Female Genital Mutulation” 1
Authors: Ngarúiya Njambi Wairimú
Published: August 2007

My focus in this paper is on cultural and political mobilization centered on irua ria atumia in the anti-colonial struggles of Kenya's Gĩkũyũ ethnic group. While a currently hegemonic eradication discourse presents female genital practices as proof of these women's oppression and domination, the history presented here conversely demonstrates that irua should be presented as a means of empowerment and resistance. Irua ria atumia instilled a cultural ethic of courage among Gĩkũyũ women, and a rallying cause in struggles against British rule when officials attempted to ban the practice. By presenting this colonial history of political struggle associated with irua ria atumia na anake, I emphasize the importance of avoiding seeing cultural practices in terms of domination and conformity, but rather as site of multiple possibilities where individuals and groups as agents actively invent and reinvent themselves strategically.
MAQĀSID AL-SHARĪ A: EPISTEMOLOGY AND HERMENEUTICS OF MUSLIM THEOLOGIES OF HUMAN RIGHTS
Authors: Johnston David
Published: August 2007

This essay explores the purposive strategy of modern Islamic legal theory (i.e., based on maqāsid al-sharīa, with public benefit, or maslaha, as the sharī`a's main purpose) and its use in articulating an Islamic theology of human rights. After a synopsis of contemporary research on Islam and human rights, the essay highlights the main issues involved in the twentiethcentury turn to a purposive approach in usūl al-fiqh (Islamic legal theory). The “maqāsidī ” strategy as it is applied to human rights is then monitored in three distinct currents: traditionalists (Muhammad al-Ghaz¯lī and Muhammad 'Amāra); progressive conservatives (Muhammad Talbi, Muhammad al-Mutawakkal, and Rāshid al-Ghannūshī); progressives working with a postmodern epistemology (Ebrahim Moosa and Khaled Abou El Fadl). In conclusion, this move toward ethical objectivism and an epistemological favoring of ethical values over particular formulations of the text could enable a greater number of conservatives and progressives to converge on some of the burning questions of human rights today.
JEWISH MYSTICISM ON TRIAL IN A MUSLIM COURT: A FATWā ON THE ZOHAR—YEMEN 1914
Authors: Wagner Mark
Published: August 2007

In the early decades of the twentieth century, a heated debate over the legitimacy of Jewish mystical texts, foremost among them the Zohar, divided the Jews of Sanā, the Yemeni capital, into two camps. In 1914, one Jewish faction took the other to a Muslim court. There, a Muslim jurist heard arguments for and against Jews' study of the Zohar. The resulting fatwā sheds light on this fascinating moment of inter-religious dialogue. At issue here is the extent to which the Jewish litigants framed their arguments in Islamic terms and the ways in which the Muslim jurist and his employer, Imām Yahyā Hamīd al-Dīn, the theocratic ruler of Yemen, understood Judaism in terms borrowed from contemporary debates on Islamic sectarianism. The centrality of this fatwā in later permutations of the schism within Yemeni Judaism will be addressed as well.
Event-Based Climatology and Typology of Fog in the New York City Region
Authors: Tardif Robert , Rasmussen Roy M.
Published: August 2007

The character of fog in a region centered on New York City, New York, is investigated using 20 yr of historical data. Hourly surface observations are used to identify fog events at 17 locations under the influence of various physiographic features, such as land–water contrasts, land surface character (urban, suburban, and rural), and terrain. Fog events at each location are classified by fog types using an objective algorithm derived after extensive examination of fog formation processes. Events are characterized according to frequency, duration, and intensity. A quantitative assessment of the likelihood with which mechanisms leading to fog formation are occurring in various parts of the region is obtained. The spatial, seasonal, and diurnal variability of fog occurrences are examined and results are related to regional and local influences. The results show that the likelihood of fog occurrence is influenced negatively by the presence of the urban heat island of New York City, whereas it is enhanced at locations under the direct influence of the marine environment. Inland suburban and rural locations also experience a considerable amount of fog. As in other areas throughout the world, the overall fog phenomenon is a superposition of various types. Precipitation fog, which occurs predominantly in winter, is the most common type. Fog resulting from cloud-base lowering also occurs frequently across the region, with an enhanced likelihood in winter and spring. A considerable number of advection fog events occur in coastal areas, mostly during spring, whereas radiation fog occurs predominantly at suburban and rural locations during late summer and early autumn but also occurs during the warm season in the coastal plain of New Jersey as advection–radiation events.
Formulation of an Index for Sea Breezes in Opposing Winds
Authors: Porson A. , Steyn D. G. , Schayes G.
Published: August 2007

A scaling analysis is conducted to explore the dependence of sea-breeze speed and inland occurrence in the presence of opposing winds on a set of dynamical parameters. The overall aim of the analysis is to develop an index for sea-breeze occurrence in the face of opposing winds, similar to the Biggs and Graves lake-breeze index. Most studies separate sea-breeze speed and sea-breeze inland occurrence or, at best, link the two in linear analyses. This work analyzes the output of a nonlinear numerical mesoscale model (in idealized simulations) using scaling methods commonly applied in observational studies. It is found that the scaled sea-breeze speed, in response to increasing magnitude of opposing wind, shows two distinct phases: a phase of increasing speed while the sea breeze progresses inland and a phase of sharply decreasing speed when the sea breeze is no longer detected inland. The analysis also allows the development of an index for sea-breeze inland occurrence. This index is an improvement over existing analyses through the use of nonlinear scaling and the use of surface heat flux as opposed to simpler land–sea temperature contrasts.
Health promotion intervention for hygienic disposal of children's faeces in a rural area of Nigeria
Authors: Jinadu M.K. , Adegbenro C.A. , Esmai A.O. , Ojo A.A. , Oyeleye B.A.
Published: August 2007

Objective Community-based health promotion intervention for improving unhygienic disposal of children's faeces was conducted in a rural area of Nigeria.

Setting The study was conducted in Ife South Local Government area of Osun State, Nigeria.

Design The study was conducted in 10 randomly selected rural villages: five control and five active.

Method The intervention, which lasted for nine months, consisted of hygienic use of chamber-pots for the disposal of children's faeces, discouraging children from defecation around households, construction and use of affordable Ventilated Improved Latrines (VIP) and hand-washing with soap and water by mothers after cleaning up the children's faeces. It was undertaken by primary health care workers, using group and individual discussions, plus demonstrations to mothers and community leaders. Results Significantly more mothers in the intervention communities (68 per cent compared with 6 per cent) were using chamber-pots ( pow) for defecation, a much smaller proportion of children in the active group (25 per cent compared with 72 per cent) defecated on the floor of the households. Significantly more households in the intervention group upgraded their unsanitary latrines to sanitary ones by ventilating them (7 per cent compared with 3 per cent). Also, significantly more mothers washed their hands with soap and water (20 per cent in the intervention group compared with 9 per cent in the control group).

Conclusions This study has brought about positive changes in the knowledge, attitude and practice of mothers and their children towards the disposal of children's faeces in rural communities. The study therefore has significant implications for the development of programmes for the control of childhood diarrhoea in developing countries.
Utilization of mammography services among elderly rural and urban African American women
Authors: Agho Augustine O , Mosley Barbara W , Rivers Patrick A , Parker Shandowyn
Published: August 2007

Purpose This study was a two-year educational intervention and research project aimed at increasing the awareness of breast cancer and the utilization of Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) services and Self-Breast Examination (SBE) among elderly rural and urban African American women who are Medicare beneficiaries.

Design The study was implemented in four phases. In Phase 1, we obtained Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) data collected for a one-year period and computed the annual mammography screening and clinical breast examination rates for elderly African American and Caucasian women who are participants in the Medicare programme. Phase 2 was conducted concurrently with Phase 1 to collect and analyze pertinent data. During Phase 3, the one-year educational intervention component of the project was implemented, in conjunction with the American Cancer Society's Sisters Alive programme, and with the Health Advisory Council. In Phase 4, we obtained the claims data from CMS to compute annual mammography rates to evaluate the impact of the intervention.

Findings The results suggest the following: (1) one of the primary reasons elderly women do not utilize CBE services is because they do not consider it necessary when they experience no symptoms or pain; (2) elderly African American women have moderate awareness of the incidence and prevalence of breast cancer; and (3) they are generally aware of the benefi ts of CBE. Analysis of the pre- and post-tests data failed to provide evidence of the impact of this project on the utilization of CBE among elderly African American women.
Exploring the use of experiential learning workshops and reflective practice within professional practice development for post-graduate health promotion students
Authors: Cronin Mary , Connolly Claire
Published: August 2007

Objective To explore and evaluate the use of two methods (1) experiential learning workshops and (2) reflective practice within post-graduate health promotion education, with a view to providing a foundation in professional practice based on health promotion principles and critical thinking.

Design This is an empirical study exploring the usefulness and outcomes of two methods within an educational process. The study is informed by a number of theoretical and pedagogical perspectives including reflective practice, adult learning, constructivism, as well as the principles of health promotion and Freire's concept of conscientization. It involves the design, pilot implementation and evaluation of experiential workshops and reflective practice.

Setting The study was undertaken within the postgraduate Masters / Higher Diploma in Health Promotion programme at the Department of Health Promotion, National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG). Participants included 19 full-time students and six staff members.

Method The two educational methods were piloted during the academic year 2003—2004. They were evaluated by students and staff using a variety of quantitative and qualitative methods, including questionnaires, focus groups and discursive processes.

Findings The experiential workshops were evaluated very positively both in terms of effectiveness as educational methods and content. The introduction of reflective practice was modestly successful as a first attempt and showed potential to make a valuable contribution to professional development. There was some evidence of students adopting the principles of health promotion as a result of participation in these processes.

Conclusion The two methods were found to be complimentary and to display significant potential to enhance students' postgraduate health promotion education through the provision of a strong foundation in the principles of health promotion as well as knowledge, requisite skills and `know-how'. This foundation will contribute positively to their future as health promotion practitioners.
Measuring Offender Progress in Treatment Using the Client Assessment Inventory
Authors: Sacks Joann Y. , McKendrick Karen , Kressel David
Published: August 2007

The accurate and reliable assessment of client psychological and cognitive change during correctional substance abuse treatment has gained increasing importance during the past decade as criminal justice systems seek to evaluate and understand those treatment elements associated with long-term change. The Client Assessment Inventory (CAI) is a self-report instrument for measuring client change during treatment across 14 cognitive and behavioral domains. The reliability and internal consistency of the CAI, as adapted for use in criminal justice settings, were examined with data gathered from 1,170 offenders. The research addressed the utility of the CAI for different subpopulations of offenders (e.g., race/ethnicity, gender) across a variety of correctional treatment settings. Overall, the data support the use of the CAI as a consistent, reliable, and easily administered instrument for measuring client performance and progress in treatment in both therapeutic community (TC) and non-TC correctional treatment settings.
Gender Differences in Treatment Engagement Among a Sample of Incarcerated Substance Abusers
Authors: Staton-Tindall Michele , Garner Bryan R. , Morey Janis T. , Leukefeld Carl , Krietemeyer Jennifer , Saum Christine A. , Oser Carrie B.
Published: August 2007

This article examines gender differences in treatment engagement, psychosocial variables, and criminal thinking among a sample of male and female substance abusers ( N = 2,774) enrolled in 20 prison-based treatment programs in five different states as part of the National Institute on Drug Abuse—funded Criminal Justice Drug Abuse Treatment Studies cooperative agreement. Results indicate that inmates in female treatment programs report more psychosocial dysfunction, less criminal thinking, and higher engagement than in male facilities, and there is a more negative relationship between psychosocial variables and treatment engagement (compared to male programs). Only one subscale of criminal thinking had a significant gender interaction, with males having a significantly stronger relationship between cold-heartedness and low treatment engagement. Implications for treatment interventions with a gender-specific focus are discussed.
Assessing Offender Needs and Performance for Planning and Monitoring Criminal Justice Drug Treatment
Authors: Roberts Edward A. , Contois Michael W. , Willis James C. , Worthington Mary Rose , Knight Kevin
Published: August 2007

With the rise of coerced treatment in both correctional and community settings, increased awareness and focus is being placed on motivation for change and treatment readiness as dynamic factors relevant to individual treatment planning. In addition, within correctional-treatment populations, the need for targeting criminal thinking and attitudes as primary treatment issues also has been well-established. The importance of these two issues to the effectiveness of treatment programming highlights the need for instruments that can reliably assess offender risk and needs, guide the treatment planning process, and monitor progress over time. This article provides an overview of how selected scales from the Texas Christian University Criminal Justice Client Evaluation of Self and Treatment and Criminal Thinking Scales instruments are being used to inform treatment planning and service delivery in a large, intensive therapeutic community program for substance-abusing offenders in Virginia.
CJDATS Co-Occurring Disorders Screening Instrument for Mental Disorders
Authors: Sacks Stanley , Melnick Gerald , Coen Carrie , Banks Steve , Friedmann Peter D. , Grella Christine , Knight Kevin , Zlotnick Caron
Published: August 2007

Three standardized screening instruments—the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs Short Screener, the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview—Modified, and the Mental Health Screening Form (MHSF)—were compared to two shorter instruments, the 6-item Co-Occurring Disorders Screening Instrument for Mental Disorders (CODSI-MD) and the 3-item CODSI for Severe Mental Disorders (CODSI-SMD) for use with offenders in prison substance abuse treatment programs. Results showed that the CODSI screening instruments were comparable to the longer instruments in overall accuracy and that all of the instruments performed reasonably well. The CODSI instruments showed sufficient value to justify their use in prison substance abuse treatment programs and to warrant validation testing in other criminal justice populations and settings.
Gender Preferential Responses to Speech
Authors: Hannah Annette , Murachver Tamar
Published: August 2007

A lot has been written about how and why language use differs between women and men. Status disparity not withstanding, some apparent gender differences are a consequence of interacting with a partner who uses a particular speech style, rather than reflecting a gendered pattern of language use. To further examine the impact of conversational responses to speech style, 48 participants engaged in 2 mixed-sex conversations with 2 strangers. Participants were categorized as facilitative or nonfacilitative, and results indicated that their conversational partners responded to them in a systematic way regardless of gender. Over time, however, women and men shifted their speech towards gendered patterns. Men's talk increased, their utterances became longer, and they asked fewer questions of their partners. Women increased their use of minimal responses, reduced the amount they spoke, and asked more questions. Over time, women and men's language became more clearly differentiated.
Sequential Accommodation of Turn Taking and Turn Length
Authors: Gnisci Augusto , Bakeman Roger
Published: August 2007

The broad aim of this research is to show the usefulness of sequential analytic methods when studying courtroom interaction within a communication accommodation theory (CAT) framework. Mutual influences between lawyers and witnesses during courtroom examinations were studied. A previous study examined associations between the content of lawyers' questions and witnesses' answers. In contrast, the present study examines turn taking and turn length, each in relation to the other and both in relation to the content of the interlocutor's previous turn. Using sequential log-linear techniques, this study analyzes 1850 question—answer exchanges from 47 examinations. Results show that lawyers were effective in constraining the quantitative aspects of witnesses' turns and, to a much lesser degree, the content aspects. These and other results are discussed in light of the literature on courtroom speech and of the advantages of using sequential methods when studying CAT strategies.
Text Messaging and IM
Authors: Ling Rich , Baron Naomi S.
Published: August 2007

While instant messaging (IM) via computers is well entrenched in the United States, text messaging on mobile phones is a more recent technology in America. To investigate the emergence of American texting, this study compared text messages and IMs produced by American college students with respect to transmission length, emoticons and lexical shortenings, and sentential punctuation. We examine our findings in light of other statistical studies of texting and IM, and with respect to personal computer use in the United States that predates text messaging.
Continuous Venovenous Hemodiafiltration for Life-threatening Mitochondrial Myopathy With Lactic Acidosis and Rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Inoue Shigeaki , Nagayama Masao , Aoki Hiromichi , Tamura Kozo , Suzuki Yosuke , Morita Seiji , Nakagawa Yoshihide , Yamamoto Isotoshi , Inokuchi Sadaki
Published: August 2007

We report here the clinical course of a 31-year-old male who recovered from a fulminant form of mitochondrial myopathy with lactic acidosis. The patient was transferred to our hospital with acute dyspnea and a convulsive seizure. On admission, he was in a state of shock, and presented with severe high-output heart failure, acute renal failure, and rhabdomyolysis. Treatment with continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) resulted in an excellent response, with no signs of hemodynamic instability. This case suggests that CVVHDF with serial hemodynamic monitoring may be effective in treating hypotensive patients with a life-threatening mitochondrial disorder.
Myxedema Coma
Authors: Kwaku Maxwell P. , Burman Kenneth D.
Published: August 2007

Untreated or unrecognized hypothyroidism may progress to severe decompensated hypothyroidism or myxedema coma. Relatively few cases are reported in the literature since the first case was apparently reported from the St. Thomas Hospital in London in 1879. The paucity of cases may be due to either underreporting or improvement in the diagnosis and treatment of uncomplicated hypothyroidism. However, despite the ready availability of sensitive thyrotropin assays, the recognition and treatment of myxedema coma remains a challenge. Although thyroid hormone treatment is highly effective when combined with ventilatory and hemodynamic support in the intensive care unit setting, controversies abound on the optimal and most effective choice of thyroid hormone preparation: thyroxine and triiodothyronine and in what amount. Accumulated evidence now shows that proper use of either thyroxine alone or in combination with triiodothyronine may be effective therapy.
Plasma Endothelin-1 Levels in Septic Patients
Authors: Piechota Mariusz , Banach Maciej , Irzmanski Robert , Barylski Marcin , Piechota-Urbanska Magdalena , Kowalski Jan , Pawlicki Lucjan
Published: August 2007

Dysfunction of the vascular endothelium (ET) causes an increase in serum ET-1 concentration, as observed in septic patients. It was assumed that in this patient population the ET-1 level correlates with the degree of sepsis severity, including the level of organ dysfunction and, in particular, the level of circulatory dysfunction. The aim of the present study was to assess the relationship between levels of ET-1 and levels of N-terminal brain natriuretic propeptide (NT-proBNP), procalcitonin (PCT), and C-reactive protein (CRP), as well as the Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score in septic patients. PCT and CRP were used to estimate the level of sepsis severity; the SOFA score was used to estimate multiorgan dysfunction; and NT-proBNP was used as a marker of cardiac dysfunction. Twenty patients with sepsis and severe sepsis were included in the study. Blood serum ET-1, NT-proBNP, PCT, and CRP concentrations were determined at specific time intervals, and the SOFA score was calculated. Mean ET-1, NT-proBNP, PCT, and CRP concentrations were 8.39 pg/ml ± 6.39 pg/mL, 140.80 pg/mL ± 84.65 pg/mL, 22.32 ng/mL ± 97.41 ng/mL, and 128.51 mg/L ± 79.05 mg/L, respectively. Correlation between ET-1 levels and levels of NT-proBNP, PCT, and CRP was .3879 ( P < .001), .358 ( P < .001), and .225 ( P = .011), respectively. Mean SOFA score was 6.31 pts ± 3.75 pts. Correlation between the ET-1 levels and SOFA score was .470 ( P < .001). Six patients (30%) died during the observation period of 28 days. ET-1 levels correlate with levels of NT-proBNP, PCT, and CRP, as well as the SOFA score in septic patients.
Antidepressant Treatment of Veterans With Parkinson's Disease and Depression: Analysis of a National Sample
Authors: Peijun Chen  , Kales Helen C. , Weintraub Daniel , Blow Frederic C. , Lan Jiang  , Mellow Alan M.
Published: August 2007

We examined the impact of comorbid Parkinson's disease (PD) on depression treatment. Using national Veterans Affairs (VA) databases, fiscal year 2002 data were examined for 283 273 elderly males seen for depression. We compared 2 matched depression groups, one with (N = 7868) and one without (N = 7868) PD. In the 12-month period following a depression-related clinic visit, PD and non-PD patients were equally likely to fill an antidepressant prescription (77.8% vs. 77.4%), most commonly for a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI) (62.9% vs 62.6%). Depressed PD patients had slightly higher rates of newer non-SSRI use (20.6% vs 19.2%, P < .05) and lower rates of tricyclic antidepressant use (7.4% vs 8.9%, P < .001). The presence of a PD diagnosis appears to have little impact on the frequency and type of antidepressant treatment. Efforts to improve the care of depressed PD patients should focus instead on improving recognition, ensuring adequacy of treatment, and evaluating the efficacy of existing antidepressants. ( J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2007;20:161-165)
Depression in Primary Progressive Aphasia
Authors: Medina Jennifer , Weintraub Sandra
Published: August 2007

Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a clinical dementia syndrome in which language functions decline over time while other cognitive domains remain relatively preserved for at least 2 years. Because PPA patients suffer progressive interference with communication despite relatively preserved memory, reasoning, and insight, there is reason to believe they may experience depression. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) scores from PPA patients and normal controls were compared, the relationship between GDS and neuropsychological test scores was examined, and responses to items on the GDS were explored and grouped by the GDS factor structure. A significant proportion of PPA patients scored in the clinically depressed range. Although PPA patients as a group were not clinically depressed, they reported more symptoms of depression than controls, and the number of symptoms correlated with severity of naming impairment in depressed PPA patients. Symptoms of social withdrawal and lack of mental and physical energy were most common, suggesting that patients with PPA should be evaluated for depression so that they may be appropriately treated. ( J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2007;20:153-160)
Depressive Symptoms and Cognitive Change in Older Mexican Americans
Authors: Raji Mukaila A. , Reyes-Ortiz Carlos A. , Kuo Yong-Fang , Markides Kyriakos S. , Ottenbacher Kenneth J.
Published: August 2007

To examine the association between presence of clinically relevant depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale [CES-D] score ≥ 16) and subsequent cognitive function (Mini-Mental State Examination [MMSE]) over a 7-year period in older Mexican Americans, a prospective cohort study was performed. Five south-western states contributed data to the Hispanic Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly. Participants included 2812 noninstitutionalized Mexican Americans aged 65 and older followed from 1993-1994 until 2000-2001. Cognitive change was assessed using the MMSE at baseline and at 2, 5, and 7 years of follow-up. Independent variables were sociodemographics, CES-D ≥ 16, medical conditions (hypertension, diabetes, coronary artery disease, and stroke), and activities of daily living (ADL) status. A general linear mixed model was used to estimate cognitive change. There was a cross-sectional association between CES-D ≥ 16 and lower MMSE score (estimate = —0.48; standard error [SE] = 0.15; P < .01), independent of age, gender, education, marital status, time of interview, ADL limitations, vision impairment, and medical conditions. In the fully adjusted longitudinal model, subjects with clinically relevant depressive symptoms had a greater decline in MMSE score over 7 years than those without clinically relevant depressive symptoms (estimate = —0.17; SE = 0.05; P < .001), adjusting for sociodemographics, ADL and medical conditions. Each point increase in the CES-D score was associated with a decline of 0.010 point in MMSE score per year (SE = 0.002; P < 0.0001), adjusting for relevant confounders. Presence of clinically relevant depressive symptoms was associated with subsequent decline in cognitive function over 7 years in older Mexican Americans, independent of demographic and health factors. ( J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2007;20:145-152)
Career Instruments and High School Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: Dipeolu Abiola O.
Published: August 2007

Conventional wisdom in the area of assessment strongly supports the notion that instruments used for vocational or career decision-making purposes should possess sound psychometric properties. This study is a preliminary attempt to examine the reliability and validity of three important career decision-making measures administered to high school students with learning disabilities (LD). Data were obtained from 86 high school students with LD. Correlations were found between the scales in the predicted directions. Modest evidence for construct validity was found. Results found reliability ranging from low (.50) to high (.96). Some significant differences in response patterns were found in t-test comparisons. Specific recommendations for career counseling are discussed, including implications for the assessment process and interventions.
Work—Family Conflict Within the Family
Authors: Gali Cinamon Rachel , Weisel Amatzia , Tzuk Kineret
Published: August 2007

To better understand the work—family interface within the family domain, this study investigated crossover effects of two types of work—family conflict among 120 participants (60 married couples), these conflicts' relations with parental self-efficacy and perceived quality of parent—child interaction, and the contribution of attributions of importance to life roles on variance in these two parental outcomes. Results indicated complementary correlations between men's and women's conflicts. That is, work family conflict of one spouse was positively correlated to family work conflict of the other spouse. Both types of conflict were negatively correlated with parental self-efficacy and perceived quality of parent—child interaction. Parents' sense of self-efficacy in their parenting role was associated with the higher value they attributed to that role and to the dual role of working parent, and with the stronger sense of commitment to the parenting and dual roles. Theoretical and practical issues are discussed.
Pharmacists' Perceptions of Barriers to Automation in Selected Hospital Pharmacies in Nigeria
Authors: Olubunmi Afolabi M. , Oyedepo Oyebisi T.
Published: August 2007

The study examined pharmacists' perceptions of possible barriers to the introduction of automated techniques in hospital pharmacy systems. The research method was a questionnaire survey of a random sample of practicing pharmacists in 3 teaching hospitals in Southwestern Nigeria. A total of 53 questionnaires were returned, for a response rate of 65%. Results of the study showed that pharmacists had inherent fears about the feasibility of automation in hospital pharmacy practice, though they recognized the potential benefits and they were generally supportive of introducing some forms of automation into the work systems. Most of the respondents were proficient in computing and basic concepts of pharmacy automation, but pharmacists with a low level of computer literacy rated higher in their perceptions of potential barriers to pharmacy automation. The attitudinal disposition presented a significant potential barrier to the technology, particularly among the grades of staff that probably viewed the innovation as a threat to their continued employment. The variables of gender, status, and type of hospital unit were not significant factors in the pharmacists' perceptions. Suggestions for successful implementation of the technological change are provided for pharmacy directors and hospital administrators, especially in respect to improved management commitment and structural facilities.
Gatifloxacin-Induced Hyperglycemia: A Review of 4 Cases and the Literature
Authors: Edwards Krystal L. , Hall Ronald G. , Ceja Maria Estela
Published: August 2007

Gatifloxacin, a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone, has recently been voluntarily withdrawn by Bristol-Myers Squibb from the market secondary to dysglycemic events associated with this agent. Risk factors for this adverse event include diabetes and those who are elderly (65 years of age or older), have renal insufficiency, or take glucose altering medications. The mechanism for this adverse reaction is not fully understood. However, it is theorized that there is an association between accumulation of gatifloxacin (particularly in elderly patients or those with renal insufficiency) and dysglycemic events with gatifloxacin. A review of the literature found 13 reported cases of hyperglycemia induced by gatifloxacin and 2 clinical trials evaluating gatifloxacin's association with hyperglycemia. Similarly to other reported cases, the authors' 4 outpatients were initiated on gatifloxacin therapy and subsequently had developed hyperglycemia during gatifloxacin therapy. Prior to the multiple observations of dysglycemias associated with gatifloxacin, this medication was widely used and thought to have an excellent safety profile. Hence, clinicians should be vigilant and exercise caution with newly approved medications.