bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Holy Spirit and Mission in Some Contemporary Theologies of Mission
Authors: Smith Susan
Published: January 2010

In 1990, Pope John Paul II spoke of the Spirit as "the principal agent of mission," a statement that can provoke a variety of perceptions of the contemporary practice of mission. In this article I wish to show how the mission of the Spirit enjoys chronological and spatial priority over the mission of Jesus through an examination of the work of some contemporary theologians. An emphasis on the chronological and spatial priority of the Spirit opens up, first, new possibilities for those who favor interreligious dialogue rather than an emphasis on proclamation and proselytization as privileged ways of being missionary. Second, it offers support to women who have long experienced the negative impact of androcentric Christologies in both church and society. Third, the universal presence of the Spirit in creation is an invitation for contemporary women and men to redefine their relationship to the rest of creation, for the Spirit's immanence in all creation should call for a retreat from exploitative attitudes to nature. Fourth, the energizing and vivifying power of the Spirit could challenge that institutional inertia that can encourage the church to think of church expansion and growth as the legitimate goal of missionary activity. But to speak of the Spirit as "the principal agent of mission" also requires that we need to redefine our understanding of the relationship between the Spirit and the Jesus of history. This redefinition is important, for to move from a narrow Christocentrism or theocentrism to a theology of mission that could appear to delink the Spirit from the Father and Son in favor of understanding the Spirit as a "cosmic force," a "cosmic energy" is as limiting as the problem it tries to resolve.
Integrating Inner-Healing Into Missions Education
Authors: Cheng Maynor Clara
Published: January 2010

In this article, Meynor Clara Cheng reviews cross-cultural stress and emotional bruises, four common damaged emotions, three models of inner healing, and a checklist of possible issues needing to be addressed in inner-healing ministry. Dr. Cheng explains how new missionaries are vulnerable to low self-esteem. Using David Seamand's writings as her framework, she identifies the common damaged emotions and the causes of emotional bruises. The four major common damaged emotions identified are a sense of unworthiness, a perfectionist complex, supersensitivity, and depression. These damaged emotions can be capsulized in one phrase:"low self-esteem." The five common causes of emotional bruises are parent-child relationship, conditional parental love, cultural overemphasis on being strong, sexual abuse, and faulty Christian concepts. Nevertheless, the parent-child relationship and the response to inflicted hurt are the two main factors in emotional bruises. Those who train missionaries should be knowledgeable of various approaches to inner healing so that they will have their own compatible model(s) of inner healing to use with their students. However, the author contends that intimacy with God, the Word of God, appropriation of the cross, and cooperation with the work of the Holy Spirit represent the essential dynamics and approaches in inner-healing.
"You Are Light of the World": a Missiological Focus for the Sermon On the Mount in Matthew
Authors: Olley John W.
Published: January 2010

Although the words of Jesus, "You are the light of the world," are much used in missiological contexts, there has been surprisingly little attention given to their significance in the gospel of Matthew. This article argues that their position, at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, intentionally placed between the beatitudes and Jesus' words about "righteousness," provides a missiological focus for the Sermon, and for the whole teaching of Jesus.
Pentecostal and Charismatic Reshaping of the African Religious Landscape in the 1990s
Authors: Kalu Ogbu
Published: January 2010

In this arcticle, Nigerian Ogbu Kalu utilizes two broad models that emphasize how religion reinvents daily life and culture, and how it does so by utilizing signals of transcendence in the sphere of human existence. Kalu argues that religion needs to be examined as a central category of cultural practice in which lived lives embody an evolving religious understanding of the ultimate meaning of life. Sociologists of religion may miss the driving force of religious power in religious movements by paying too much attention to functions of such movements in social structures. In all these, culture is the contested space. Kalu develops his argument by highlighting seven areas to illustrate the salience of the Penteocstal movement in reshaping cultures and religious landscapes: re-invention of self and life journey, daily life in the domestic domain, arts and aesthetics, communication, the individual and community at the social domain, religious life and public space.
Religious Experience and the Necessity of Mission
Authors: Hwang Chang-Sun
Published: January 2010

This article aims to show that one of the recent trends in missionary work, namely, the evasion or even the abandonment of traditional mission (i.e. evangelization for conversion) is, from the viewpoint of religion and philosophical hermeneutics, unsound. Consequently, the article argues that mission as evangelization is both natural and necessary. Nevertheless, mission as evangelization for conversion implies neither rejection of other ways of doing mission, including interreligious dialogue, nor the regression toward an imperialist approach. Two criteria for establishing or critiquing Christian paradigms of mission are developed-religious experience and the necessity of mission.
Mental Health Service Users’ Perceptions and Experiences of Sedation, Seclusion and Restraint
Authors: Mayers Pat , Keet Nelleke , Winkler Gunter , Flisher Alan J.
Published: January 2010

Background: Sedation, seclusion or restraint are recognized methods of containing a person experiencing an acute psychotic episode with behavioural disturbance which has not responded to verbal or non-sedating pharmacological interventions. These interventions pose significant ethical and practical challenges to service providers who are responsible for safeguarding the human rights of mental health service users.

Aims: In a collaborative two-phase study between mental health care providers and mental health service users, the perceptions and experiences of a group of service users who have been exposed to sedation, seclusion and restraint were explored.

Method: A focus group was conducted with eight service users. The content of the focus group was transcribed and themes were identified using thematic analysis. These were presented to a second focus group consisting of eight other service users for validation and comment. Based on the results of the focus groups, a questionnaire was developed and administered to a convenience sample of 43 service users in three localities.

Results: Service users reported inadequate communication between them and service providers and perceived that their human rights had been infringed during acute episodes of illness. Methods of containment were often seen as punitive rather than therapeutic. Sedation was most frequently used and was considered to be least distressing. Observing methods of forced/involuntary containment caused further distress.

Conclusions: There is a need to humanize service users’ experiences during episodes of acute illness. Measures should include prevention of human rights abuses; minimization of isolation and distress; improvement of communication between service providers and service users; and promotion of attitudinal changes which reflect respect for other people’s dignity.
Static and Fatigue Bond Characteristics of FRP Rebars Embedded in Fiber-reinforced Concrete
Authors: Huanzi Wang  , Belarbi Abdeldjelil
Published: January 2010

A research project was initiated to develop a nonferrous hybrid reinforcement system for concrete bridge decks by using continuous fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) rebars and discrete randomly distributed polypropylene fibers. This hybrid system may eliminate problems related to the corrosion of steel reinforcement while providing requisite strength, stiffness, and desired ductility, which are shortcomings of FRP reinforcing system in plain concrete. This article presents the results of a part of this research program, i.e., the bond behaviors of this hybrid reinforcing system under monotonic and fatigue loading. Test results indicate that the addition of polypropylene fibers does not increase the ultimate bond strength, while providing enhanced ductile bond behavior. Fatigue loading can increase bond stiffness and bond capacity, while causing more brittle bond behavior. Polypropylene fibers can effectively decrease the bond degradation rate caused by fatigue loading.
A Self-sealing Fiber-reinforced Composite
Authors: Moll Jericho L. , White Scott R. , Sottos Nancy R.
Published: January 2010

We describe a self-sealing plain weave E-glass epoxy composite with the healing components, microencapsulated dicyclopentadiene (DCPD), and paraffin wax coated Grubbs’ catalyst dispersed throughout the matrix. In this work, sealing is assessed through use of a pressure cell apparatus to detect nitrogen flow through the thickness direction of a damaged composite. A controlled amount of microcracking is introduced through cyclic indentation of opposing surfaces of the sample. The resulting damage zone is proportional to the indentation load. We investigate the effect of DCPD microcapsule size and concentration on the self-sealing ability of plain weave E-glass epoxy composites. For 51 µm diameter capsules (6.5 wt%), 67% of the self-sealing composite panels fully seal with no leaking, compared to 0% of the control panels with no sealing ability. When the amount of damage is reduced, 100% of the self-sealing samples resealed. Sealing performance decreases with smaller diameter capsules (18 µm diameter) and lower capsule concentrations (2.7 wt%), indicating that there is a minimum capsule size and concentration to deliver enough healing agent to seal a given damage volume.
Redesign of the ECT Test for Mode III Delamination Testing. Part I: Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Browning Grant , Carlsson Leif A. , Ratcliffe James G.
Published: January 2010

A series of finite element analyses (Part I) and tests (Part II) on various modifications of the edge crack torsion (ECT) test have been conducted in an effort to render the test more suitable for characterizing mode III delamination in laminated composites. To this end, two ECT specimen configurations were considered. The first configuration involves loading the specimen at a single location, and the second configuration involves a symmetric double load point application. Investigations were conducted on the effect of specimen overhang, along the length and width direction, on the inferred strain energy release rate distributions across the delamination front. Stress distributions in the vicinity of the delamination front were used to infer the corresponding modes I, II, and III strain energy release rate distributions. Results indicate the single and double loading configurations exhibiting similar stress distributions along the delamination front. Specimens with short crack lengths and small amounts of overhang yielded the most uniform distribution of mode III loading along the delamination front.
Synergy Effects of Conductive Fillers on Elastomer Graphite Composite Material for PEM Fuel Cell Bipolar Plates
Authors: Petrach Elaine , Abu-Isa Ismat , Xia Wang
Published: January 2010

Bipolar plates are necessary components in the current design of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell stacks. The aim of this study is to investigate the elastomeric material with the addition of different types of graphite conductive fillers for the potential use as a bipolar plate in a PEM fuel cell stack. The conductive fillers investigated here include Cytec thermal graphite fibers, Asbury Carbons PAN AGM 99 fiber, synthetic graphite (4012), natural flake (3763), and different grades of graphite powder (TC 305). Some of these conductive fillers are implemented in a two component silicone slurry matrix (RTV 627 by Momentive Performance Materials) to make a composite material. The synergy effects between different fillers in a composite are studied through the percolation theory and scanning electron microscopy images. It has been found that binary blends of fillers resulted in lower resistivity values than individual components over wide composition ratios. A bulk electrical resistivity of 0.0310 Ω cm is achieved for the composite containing 28% by volume DKD fiber and 7% synthetic graphite flake (Asbury 4012) mixed in the elastomeric matrix.
Comparative Pharmacokinetics of a Once‐Daily Tramadol Extended‐Release Tablet and an Immediate‐Release Reference Product Following Single‐Dose and Multiple‐Dose Administration
Authors: Karhu David , Fradette Caroline , Potgieter Maria Alida , Ferreira Maria M. , Terblanché Johann
Published: January 2010

The pharmacokinetics of a once‐daily formulation of tramadol (Tramadol Contramid OAD 200‐mg tablets) following single‐dose and multiple‐dose administration was compared with that of an immediate‐release product (tramadol IR 50‐mg tablets) in 2 separate studies. In both studies, AUC parameters met bioequivalence criteria, whereas Cmaxof Tramadol Contramid OAD was lower than that of tramadol IR following a 200‐mg daily dosage. After single‐dose administration, the mean tramadol concentration at 1 hour postdose was within the range associated with analgesic efficacy (>100 ng/mL), and the mean concentration remained above this level for the remainder of the dosing interval. Steady state was attained within 48 hours following multiple‐dose administration. Tramadol Contramid OAD provides a rapid rise in plasma concentrations and an equivalent daily systemic exposure as tramadol IR, with a reduction in peak plasma concentrations.
Racial Group Identification and Its Relations to Individualism/ Interdependence and Race-Related Stress in African Americans
Authors: Hunter Carla D. , Joseph Nancy
Published: January 2010

This study examined individualistic and interdependent notions of self and race-related stress across racial group identification profiles extracted from cluster analyses. African American college students were recruited from an introductory psychology course and were asked to complete several self-report measures. Using k-means cluster analysis, four group identification profiles emerged. The results suggest that cluster profiles marked by an in-group focus on race (Internalization profile) were more likely to endorse individualistic and interdependent values than cluster profiles that emphasize commonality among in-group and out-group members (Universalist profile) or an Undifferentiated profile. The fourth cluster (Multicultural profile), marked by strong endorsement of oppressed ideologies as an essential feature of group identification, endorsed collectivistic values, but no individualistic values. In terms of race-related stress, participants in the Internalization profile were more likely to report cultural race-related stress than participants in the Universalist profile. The results suggest that cultural values related to interdependence and independence differ across African Americans’ racial group identifications. Implications for future research are discussed.
Retinoblastoma and superior verbal IQ scores?
Authors: Tobin Michael , Hill Eileen , Hill John
Published: January 2010

Experienced teachers have long asserted that children blind from retinoblastoma (Rb), a rare cancer of the eye, are of above average intelligence. To test this hypothesis, standardized verbal intelligence tests were administered to a sample of 85 children and adults, all diagnosed with the early infancy form of this condition. For 42 of the Rb participants, a control group was assembled of other blind individuals, each matched one-to-one on age, age of onset of the blindness, duration of the condition, sex, and educational history/background. The IQ scores of 200 visually impaired children are also presented for general comparison purposes in view of a common belief that verbal ability may be enhanced when sight is impaired. The mean verbal IQ of the 85 Rb participants was significantly above that of the sighted population upon which the IQ tests had been standardized. Also, the mean IQ of the sub-group of 42 Rb participants was statistically significantly superior to that of their 42 matched control group peers.
Visually impaired pupils in mainstream schools in Israel
Authors: Hess Itay
Published: January 2010

Sixty-three visually impaired pupils from 40 different schools in Israel and their form teachers filled in questionnaires assessing quality of life. In addition, a total of 200 teachers were asked to fill in questionnaires on school climate and attitudes towards inclusion. Findings indicated that positive climate and positive attitudes correlated with high compatibility between pupils’ and teachers’ reports. Pupils attending schools characterized by a positive school environment (climate and attitudes) reported that they were not stigmatized by others.
Forming effective partnerships to facilitate inclusion of students with vision impairments
Authors: Sharma Umesh , Moore Dennis , Furlonger Brett , Smyth King Brian , Kaye Linda , Constantinou Olga
Published: January 2010

This qualitative study reports on the perceptions of a regular classroom teacher and an itinerant teacher about the challenges they faced in including a student with vision impairment in regular school in New South Wales, Australia. Some of the common strategies employed by both these teachers to address these challenges are discussed.
Visual impairment and its impact on self-esteem
Authors: Bowen Jayne
Published: January 2010

The aims of the study were to investigate self-esteem levels amongst a sample group of 60 children with Visual Impairment (VI). The group was made up of equal numbers of boys and girls from primary and secondary schools. Each child’s self-esteem was measured using the BG STEEM Questionnaire (Maines and Robinson, 1993). The results showed that overall 70 per cent of the children scored within the ‘normal’ or ‘high’ levels of self-esteem. Overall scores in self-esteem were similar at both primary and secondary level. Girls displayed higher levels of self-esteem than boys at both primary and secondary level, although this difference was more pronounced at secondary level. The results also suggested that the degree of visual impairment may be a factor in determining self-esteem. Primary school children appear much more likely than secondary school children to score positively for locus of control and at secondary level boys are more likely than girls to display an internal locus of control.
Creative career development
Authors: Gray Keri
Published: January 2010

As a small business owner specializing in recruitment, I am often asked for advice about securing work or developing a career in the current marketplace. In this article I look at business approaches I have adopted for developing my own company that can be used when conducting a job search. Whether you are a new graduate looking for your first professional role, are facing a redundancy situation or looking to develop in your current role the current economic climate should be treated as an opportunity to grow. Some of the best business ventures have been born out of a recession. Likewise developing or changing career now can leave you in a stronger position and ready to take opportunities when the market place recovers. Start to take a more entrepreneurial approach to developing your career and opportunities can and will present themselves.
Business directories — the Cinderellas of the business information world
Authors: Infield Neil
Published: January 2010

In a world where there is so much emphasis on electronic information, and expensive reports, it is useful to be reminded that for certain topics there may be information in other sources that is valuable too. In this article, Neil Infield draws attention to business directories as important sources of information that are sometimes neglected.
You can run but you can’t hide …
Authors: Medwecki Mark
Published: January 2010

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)’s first use in a security context started in the 1960s. CCTV evidence is more likely to detect than prevent criminal cases in a small number of cases, but with the emergence of video analytics takes on a new importance. This article looks at CCTV usage in Hong Kong and shows one way in which existing coverage may be leveraged and what the future may hold.
On information management, environmental sustainability, and cradle to cradle mentalities
Authors: Ellis Peter , Desouza Kevin C.
Published: January 2010

Attempting to merge the topics of environmental sustainability and information management, this article works towards defining both fields and constructing a viable framework that creates a strong relationship between the two topics. Reviewing literature on information management and environmental sustainability, the authors argue that the two topics must become inseparable — the work in one discipline must inform and advance the other. The need to do so is further underscored by the evolving nature of both disciplines.
Positive deviance
Authors: Lewis Jane
Published: January 2010

This case study shows how a powerful technique developed for improving nutrition in emerging countries was used to deliver quick performance improvements within existing resources in Hertfordshire County Council by harnessing knowledge already in the community. The article gives the background about how the positive deviance technique came to be, and how it is delivering significant solutions to social problems that had been seen as intractable. It describes how the approach has been used in organizations such as Merck and HP to optimize organizational knowledge and learning, and in a current initiative to reduce MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) infections in hospitals across the USA. Jane Lewis then demonstrates how learning from these exercises mirrored and informed the project at Hertfordshire and the results delivered, both in terms of culture change and improved performance. She reflects on the links between this approach and current thinking in the social sciences, and looks forward to new projects that are just beginning.
Does copyright have a future?
Authors: Bide Mark
Published: January 2010

The Internet has been a frontier, and like many frontiers, a fundamentally lawless place. One of the early casualties was copyright. As a society, we have to decide whether we are willing to allow lawlessness on the global network to continue, or whether the Internet should be brought within the structures of civil society. One element is the renewal of proper respect for copyright. In creating the ACAP project, the publishing media have recognized that it is essential to work with technology, not against it, developing mechanisms to manage copyright in business relationships at machine to machine level. The time has come to tame the frontier, and allow the media to develop appropriate business models for the 21st Century.
Sleeping giants
Authors: Capital Markets Team
Published: January 2010

This article provides an introduction to the covered bonds market.
Spinal manipulation compared with back school and with individually delivered physiotherapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain: a randomized trial with one-year follow-up
Authors: Cecchi Francesca , Molino-Lova Raffaello , Chiti Massimiliano , Pasquini Guido , Paperini Anita , Conti Andrea A , Macchi Claudio
Published: January 2010

Objective: To compare spinal manipulation, back school and individual physiotherapy in the treatment of chronic low back pain.

Design: Randomized trial, 12-month follow-up.

Setting: Outpatient rehabilitation department.

Participants: 210 patients with chronic, non-specific low back pain, 140/210 women, age 59 ± 14 years.

Interventions: Back school and individual physiotherapy scheduled 15 1-hour-sessions for 3 weeks. Back school included: group exercise, education/ ergonomics; individual physiotherapy: exercise, passive mobilization and soft-tissue treatment. Spinal manipulation, given according to Manual Medicine, scheduled 4 to 6 20’-sessions once-a-week.

Outcome: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (scoring 0-24) and Pain Rating Scale (scoring 0-6) were assessed at baseline, discharge 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results: 205 patients completed the study. At discharge, disability score decreased by 3.7 ± 4.1 for back school, 4.4 ± 3.7 for individual physiotherapy, 6.7 ± 3.9 for manipulation; pain score reduction was 0.9 ± 1.1, 1.1 ± 1.0, 1.0 ± 1.1, respectively. At 12 months, disability score reduction was 4.2 ± 4.8 for back school, 4.0 ± 5.1 for individual physiotherapy, 5.9 ± 4.6 for manipulation; pain score reduction was 0.7 ± 1.2, 0.4 ± 1.3, and 1.5 ± 1.1, respectively. Spinal manipulation was associated with higher functional improvement and long-term pain relief than back school or individual physiotherapy, but received more further treatment at follow-ups (P<0.001); pain recurrences and drug intake were also reduced compared to back school (P <0.05) or individual physiotherapy (P <0.001).

Conclusions: Spinal manipulation provided better short and long-term functional improvement, and more pain relief in the follow-up than either back school or individual physiotherapy.
An original field evaluation test for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease population: the six-minute stepper test
Authors: Borel Benoit , Fabre Claudine , Saison Sylvain , Bart Frédéric , Grosbois Jean-Marie
Published: January 2010

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate a new field test, the six-minute stepper test (6-MST), by studying its reproducibility, sensitivity and validity.

Methods: After a familiarization test, 16 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and 15 healthy subjects performed two six-minute stepper tests per day over three evaluation days. Ten of the 16 patients with COPD also performed a six-minute walking test (6-MWT) with an analysis of gas exchange to compare the metabolic requirements of the two tests. Dyspnoea Borg values were evaluated with Borg’s CR-10 scale.

Results: The mean (SD) scores for the COPD group for the first and second six-minute stepper tests were 382.49 (106.01) and 412.45 (118.39) strokes/6 minutes, respectively. Crossed comparison between the first or the second six-minute stepper tests of each evaluation day revealed no significant difference, indicating the reproducibility of the test. The sensitivity was demonstrated by a significantly higher performance in the healthy group (P<0.001), demonstrating the ability of the test to detect two groups with different fitness levels. Finally, mean dyspnoea Borg values (SD) were significantly lower (P<0.05) during the six-minute stepper test than during 6-MWT (2.5 (1.5) versus 3.1 (1.2)).

Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the six-minute stepper test is a reproducible, sensitive, secure, well-tolerated and feasible test for patients with COPD. The reproducibility and sensitivity of the six-minute stepper test suggests that this test could be used in the evaluation of exercise tolerance in patients with COPD.
Overt and Relational Victimization in Latinos and European Americans: Measurement Equivalence Across Ethnicity, Gender, and Grade Level in Early Adolescent Groups
Authors: Buhs Eric S. , McGinley Meredith , Toland Michael D.
Published: January 2010

This study examined the factorial invariance and construct validity equivalence of a self-report of victimization and exclusion (SVEX) for Latino and European American early adolescent participants (fifth and sixth grades; mean age 11.3).The instrument included an expanded set of relational victimization items that more thoroughly tapped exclusion behaviors relevant to developmental and cross-cultural use. Confirmatory factor analyses techniques demonstrated acceptable (partial) factorial invariance across ethnic groups, fifth and sixth graders, and across gender. Linkages between the SVEX scores, peer nominations, internalizing indices, and three demographic variables also supported construct validity equivalence for the SVEX. Findings supported a two-factor model similar to that of Crick and colleagues (e.g., Crick & Grotpeter, 1995) and suggested that the instrument provided an acceptable level of equivalence for overt and relational victimization forms across these groups.
Imaging and Ultrasound-Guided Steroid Injection of Internal Oblique Muscle Strains in Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Stevens Kathryn J. , Crain Jana M. , Akizuki Kenneth H. , Beaulieu Christopher F.
Published: January 2010

Background

Internal oblique muscle injuries are common in professional baseball pitchers and may require a prolonged convalescence of up to 10 weeks. Most strains can be diagnosed clinically, but imaging can be helpful to assess the severity of injury, which may predict recovery and return to play.

Hypothesis

Ultrasound-guided injection of steroid and local anesthetic into the muscle tear can speed recovery and subsequent return to play.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Three professional baseball pitchers with acute tears of the internal oblique muscle confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging underwent ultrasound-guided injection of steroid and local anesthetic.

Results

All 3 patients experienced significant pain relief within a few days of the injection and were able to pitch at full speed within 3 weeks of injury (mean, 21 days) and return to able status by 5 weeks (mean, 30.7 days). The 3 athletes continue to pitch in Major League Baseball 36 months, 36 months, and 14 months, respectively, after injury, and none have sustained reinjury during this time.

Conclusion

Therapeutic injection of steroids and anesthetic under ultrasound guidance appears to speed recovery and rehabilitation in professional baseball pitchers with acute side strains.
Relationship between Low Back Pain and Competitive Sports Activities during Youth
Authors: Hangai Mika , Kaneoka Koji , Okubo Yu , Miyakawa Shumpei , Hinotsu Shiro , Mukai Naoki , Sakane Masataka , Ochiai Naoyuki
Published: January 2010

Background

Low back pain is a significant problem not only for the adult, but also during youth. However, the relationship between low back pain during youth and the duration or types of competitive sports has not been clarified.

Hypothesis

Low back pain during youth is associated with the duration and types of competitive sports.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Study participants were 4667 new university students who, from 2004 to 2006, answered a questionnaire concerning low back pain and their participation in competitive sports. The participants were divided into a “no” group (NO), a middle group (MID), and a high group (HI) based on the duration of participation in competitive sports. The answers to the questionnaire were analyzed using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test. Furthermore, we selected students who had participated in the same sport for 5 or more years and categorized the students according to the type of sport. Differences in low back pain among the groups were analyzed using logistic regression with the NO group as the reference group.

Results

There were statistically significant linear associations in the NO, MID, and HI groups, with 50.0%, 61.8%, and 71.7%, respectively, of the students experiencing low back pain. Among the NO, MID, and HI groups, 4.4%, 5.7%, 9.6%, respectively, had experienced school absence due to low back pain; and 4.0%, 8.5%, and 14.6%, respectively had low back pain with associated lower extremity pain and numbness. All 8 sports groups that were analyzed had experienced low back pain significantly higher than the NO group, and the odds ratios differed by sport with the highest (3.8) for the volleyball group.

Conclusion

Excessive exposure to competitive sports activities during youth was associated with low back pain and symptoms in the lower extremities, with the severity varying with the sport. To reduce low back pain in youth, factors that may be causing low back pain, such as sport-specific postures and motions, need to be investigated.
A Different Approach to Vent Flow Calculations in Fire Compartments using the Critical Flow Condition
Authors: Guigay Georges , Eliásson Jónas , Karlsson Björn , Horvat Andrej , Sinai Yehuda
Published: January 2010

In enclosure fires, density-driven vent flow through an opening to the fire compartment is directly dependent on the state of the fire and the evacuation of smoke and hot gases. If a fire is strongly under-ventilated, there may be heavy production of flammable gases. If a sudden opening occurs, e.g., a window breaks or a fireman opens a door to the fire compartment, fresh air enters the compartment and mixes with hot gases, thus creating a flammable mixture that might ignite and create a backdraft. In this article, we consider the critical flow approach to solve the classical hydraulic equations of density-driven flows in order to determine the gravity controlled inflow in a shipping container full of hot unburnt gases. One-third of the container’s height is covered by the horizontal opening. For the initial condition, i.e., just before opening the hatch, zero velocity is prescribed everywhere. When the hatch is opened, the incoming air flows down to the container floor and the hot gas flows out. The interface in between them (the neutral plane) can move up like a free surface in internal flows, making it possible to use the techniques of open channel hydraulics devised by Pedersen [1]. In this article the critical flow condition, known from classical hydraulics, is used providing a new equation for the vent flow problem. Two flow correction coefficients are considered at the opening, taking into account the uneven distribution of velocity (α) and the effect of mixing and entrainment (C). The value of these coefficients is evaluated using computational fluid dynamics simulations and physical model results performed for the same geometry. Together, these two coefficients form the flow correction coefficient used in practical formulas for vent flow in fire protection engineering. These are known to have a little different values for different geometries and flow situations. The resulting flow coefficient varies slowly with the density difference, shows a small variation with geometry and compares well with previously published data.
The Effects of Peer Tutoring on Academic Performance of Students With Disabilities in Grades 6 Through 12: A Synthesis of the Literature
Authors: Okilwa Nathern S. A. , Shelby Liz
Published: January 2010

This synthesis examined the effects of peer tutoring on academic performance of students with disabilities in Grades 6 through 12. Twelve studies met all the criteria for this synthesis: (a) original studies, (b) published in peer-reviewed journals between 1997 and 2007, (c) investigated peer tutoring in special education students in Grades 6 through 12, and (d) implemented peer tutoring as an intervention and measured the effect on the academic outcomes of students with disabilities. Findings revealed that peer tutoring has a positive academic effect on students with disabilities in Grades 6 through 12, regardless of disability type. Peer tutoring was reported as effective for special education students in both general education and special education settings. Peer tutoring implemented across subject areas also showed positive academic effects. Each of the 12 studies implemented peer tutoring in at least one content area (e.g., language arts, math, science, and social studies).
Studies on the Morphological, Rheological, Electrical, Mechanical and Thermal Properties of the PTT/SCF Composites
Authors: Run M. , Li X. , Song H. , Wang Z.
Published: January 2010

Short carbon fiber reinforced poly(trimethylene terephthalate) composites (PTT/SCF) were investigated in their rheology behaviors, phase morphology, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties by capillary rheometer, scanning electron microscope, universal tester, high insulation resistance meter, Q meter, and thermal gravimetric analyzer. PTT/SCF melt is the dilating fluid at a shear rate below 130 s-1, while it becomes pseudo-plastic fluid at a shear rate higher than 130 s- 1. Melt apparent viscosity and viscous flow activation energy increase initially, and then decrease as SCF content increases, which have maximum values with 2 wt% SCF. The interaction between SCF and PTT matrix is strong based on the observation from the fracture surface of composites. The tensile strength and rupture strength are all increased obviously with increasing SCF; while the impact strength reaches a maximum value as SCF contents is 5%. With increasing SCF content in matrix, the electrical resistivity is decreased, while the dielectric constant, and the dielectric loss tangent were increased.
Flammability of Natural Fiber-reinforced Composites and Strategies for Fire Retardancy: A Review
Authors: Chapple S. , Anandjiwala R.
Published: January 2010

Natural fiber-reinforced composites are finding new applications in many sectors. In certain industries, such as building and transport, reduced material flammability is a key requirement. Knowledge of the flammability of natural fiber-reinforced composites and the methods used to improve their fire resistance is necessary to ensure their use in these industries. The purpose of this review is to examine important aspects of the flammability of natural fiber-reinforced composites and to outline some of the more recent strategies used to improve their fire performance.
Role of Surface Active Agent on Dimensional Stability of HDPE/CaCO3 Nanocomposites
Authors: Sahebian S. , Zebarjad S.M. , Sajjadi S.A.
Published: January 2010

Dimensional stability is normally defined as the ability of a material to maintain its size and shape under various temperatures and stresses. The parameter, which is used to determine dimensional stability, is thermal expansion coefficient. This work deals with the study of the dimensional stability and thermal stability of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and its nanocomposites by the presence of different stearic acid (SA) content as a modifier of surface. To investigate the role of surfactant on dimensional stability of HDPE nanocomposite reinforced with nano-sized calcium carbonate (CaCO3), nano-sized calcium carbonates were coated with different SA content. Standard specimens of HDPE/10 vol% CaCO3 nanocomposite were performed using injection method. To study dimensional stability of HDPE/10 vol% nanocomposites, dilatometry method was used. The results showed that addition of nano-sized CaCO 3 caused the decrease of thermal expansion coefficient of HDPE. In addition, dimensional stability of HDPE/10 vol% CaCO3 improved due to increasing SA content. Also, addition of inorganic fillers and surfactant retarded the thermal oxidation of HDPE.
Predictors of Change in Grip Strength Over 3 Years in the African American Health Project
Authors: Miller Douglas K. , Malmstrom Theodore K. , Miller J. Philip , Andresen Elena M. , Schootman Mario , Wolinsky Fredric D.
Published: January 2010

Objectives: To examine factors associated with change in grip strength. Method: Grip strength was measured at baseline and 3 years later. Change was divided into “decreased ≥5 kg,” “increased ≥5 kg,” and “no change” and analyzed using multinomial multivariable logistic regression. Results: Decline in grip strength was more likely for men, those reporting having cardiovascular disease, and those with instrumental activities of daily living, lower body functional limitations, high diastolic blood pressure, higher physical activity, and greater body mass. Decline was less likely among those ever having Medicaid, those with basic activities of daily living disabilities, and those unable to see a doctor in past year due to cost. Gain in grip strength was more likely for men and those with instrumental activities of daily living disabilities, lower body functional limitations, high diastolic blood pressure, and higher physical activity; it was less likely for older participants. Discussion: Results can be used to design interventions to improve strength outcomes.
The effect of 2,5-hexanedione on permeability of blood-nerve barrier in rats
Authors: Qingjun Liu  , Huawei Duan  , Yufei Dai  , Yong Niu  , Hong Chen  , Qing Liu  , Ping Bin  , Yuxin Zheng
Published: January 2010

To explore the effect of 2,5-hexanedione on permeability of blood-nerve barrier, adult Wistar rats were administered with 400 mg.kg—1.d— 1 2,5-hexanedione to establish animal model of 2,5-hexnedione neuropathy. Evans blue was injected through left femoral vein of the rats after the model had been established. The distribution of fluorescence in sciatic-tibial nerve was observed and assessed. For the transverse sections of sciatic-tibial nerves, the average fluorescence intensity of proximal section was stronger (p < .01) than those of intermediate and distal sections and the average fluorescence intensity of intermediate section was stronger (p < .01) than that of distal section in the intoxicated group. In the control, the weak fluorescence was shown, and average fluorescence intensity of distal section was stronger (p < .05) than that of proximal section. The average fluorescence intensity of proximal, intermediate and distal sections in the intoxicated group was stronger (p < .01) than those of the corresponding sections in the control. For the longitudinal sections of sciatic-tibial nerves, fluorescence was observed in both proximal and distal sections in the intoxicated group. The fluorescence intensity of distal section in the control was weak and almost no fluorescence was shown in the proximal section. The permeability of blood-nerve barrier could be increased by 2,5-hexanedione.
Anti-ulcer role of herbomineral siddha drug — Thamira parpam on experimentally induced gastric mucosal damage in rats
Authors: Vasanthkumar M. , Parameswari RP , Vijaya Kumar V. , Sangeetha MK , Gayathri V. , Balaji Raghavendran H. , Chamundeeswari D. , Vasanthi Hannah R
Published: January 2010

Anti-ulcerogenic activity of Thamira parpam (TP) was investigated in two ulcer models (aspirin + pylorus ligation and HCl-ethanol). Aspirin—pylorus ligation (Asp 200 mg/kg-7 days + PL-4 hours) and HCl-ethanol (150 mM HCl in 70% ethanol) induction in rat resulted in elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and depletion of antioxidants (superoxide dismutase [SOD], glutathione [GSH], glutathione peroxidase [GPx]) with high ulcer scores (p < .01). In Asp + PL model, TP treatment showed mild inhibition on ulcer scores, changes in pH, gastric volume, total and free acidity, and elevation of TBARS and depletion of antioxidants. Compared to the ulcer-untreated rats (HCl-ethanol), the herbomineral drug TP treatment (0.5, 1, 2 mg/kg, per oral [p.o.]) attenuated the elevation of TBARS, decrease of antioxidants and nitrite (p < .05). Histopathological examinations were correlated with the antioxidant profile. In conclusion, the prophylactic cytoprotective nature of the herbomineral drug in experimentally induced ulcers could be mediated by its free radical quenching property.
Evaluation of curcumin and cisplatin-induced DNA damage in PC12 cells by the alkaline comet assay
Authors: Meneghin Mendonça Leonardo , Cristina dos Santos Graciela , Alves dos Santos Raquel , Satie Takahashi Catarina , Pires Bianchi Maria de Lourdes , Greggi Antunes Lus nia Maria
Published: January 2010

A very appropriate method for antigenotoxicity evaluation of antioxidants is the comet assay, since this analytical method detects initial DNA lesions that are still subject to repair; in other words, lesions that are very associated to damages resulting from the generation and subsequent action of reactive species. However, a solid evaluation should be developed in order to avoid inexact interpretations. In our study, besides the association of curcumin with cisplatin, curcumin and cisplatin agents were also tested separately. Classical genotoxic compounds, when tested by the comet assay, present an increase in the nucleoid tail; however, the cisplatin treatment has resulted in a decrease of DNA migration. This was an expected effect, as the cross-links between cisplatin and DNA decrease the DNA electrophoretic mobility. A similar effect was observed with the curcumin treatment, which decreased the nucleoid tail. Such effect was not expected and reinforced the necessity of including in the study, separate treatment groups with potentially antigenotoxic substances. The comet assay results have been analyzed using specific software for image analysis, as well as the classical visual analysis, and we have observed that the effect of decrease in DNA electrophoretic mobility was more easily observed when the data were analyzed by the software.
An evaluation of the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the anti-obesity drugs sibutramine and fenproporex
Authors: da Silva Cristiano José , dos Santos José Ernesto , Satie Takahashi Catarina
Published: January 2010

Anti-obesity medications deserve special considerations at the present time due to an increasing number of overweight and obese people who require these therapeutic alternatives. Obesity is positively associated with several chronic illnesses, including cancer. In this work, we evaluated the possible genotoxic and/or cytotoxic actions of two drugs, sibutramine and fenproporex, in the doses of 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg body weight (bw), administered intraperitoneally in male Swiss mice. The genotoxic effect was analyzed by comet assay and micronucleus test. We found that both drugs increased the frequency of genotoxic damage in Swiss mice, but did not present cytotoxic activities towards the polychromatic erythrocytes of the bone marrow of these animals.
Lighting Up the Brain With Songs and Stories
Authors: Cooper Shelly
Published: January 2010

Songs and stories have a strong relationship to each other and have the capacity to boost brain development, increase vocabulary, and promote future academic success. The sounds and foundational structures of reading and singing provide young children with successful pathways for advancing language skills, increasing memory, and promoting emerging literacy.They both provide multiple opportunities for engaging in reciprocal vocalizations while simultaneously immersing children in the structure, rhythms, rhymes, and melodic patterns of language. Brain imaging provides researchers and teachers with evidence the songs and stories can “light up the brain.”
The Brain in Singing and Language
Authors: Trollinger Valerie L.
Published: January 2010

This article summarizes currently available brain research concerning relationships between singing and language development. Although this is a new field of investigation, there are findings that are applicable to general music teaching classroom. These findings are presented along with suggestions about how to apply them to teaching music.