bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population decline and life‐cycle changes in a phantom midge (Chaoborus flavicans) after introduction of planktivorous fish
Authors: Regmi Bishnu P. , Wivegh Jan S. , Hobæk Anders
Published: April 2013

Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis), a non‐native planktivorous fish species in western Norway, has been released into Lake Myravatn, which previously lacked planktivorous fish. Prior to the introduction, the zooplankton community was structured by predation by larvae of the phantom midge (Chaoborus flavicans), which maintained a bivoltine life cycle in the lake.

We hypothesised that the perch introduction would diminish the density and alter the bivoltine life‐cycle pattern of Chaoborus. To assess this, we used time series data from before (1983) and after (2007–10) the perch introduction.

The perch appears to have effectively exterminated the previously dominant predator C. flavicans within 4–5 years of introduction into the lake. The density of the larvae in the water column was high in 1983 as well as in 2007, with maximum levels recorded in August (up to 15 400 individuals m−2). In 2008, larval density was lower than in previous years, but the most dramatic decline occurred in 2009 (maximum 212 individuals m−2). In 2010, the density was very low (maximum 11 individuals m−2), and after July 2010, no larvae were found in the water column. The number of larvae residing in the sediments also declined quickly after the perch introduction.

In 1983 and 2007, C. flavicans produced two generations per year. Following the first emergence and reproduction in May, young larvae appeared in June and developed rapidly to emergence and reproduced again in August. Young larvae appeared again in August–September. In 2008, young larvae appeared only in June with no second emergence and reproduction. In 2009, young larvae did not appear until July, and again no further reproduction took place. Only a few instar IV larvae were recorded in 2010. The collapse in life cycle into a univoltine pattern occurred prior to the main population decline.

We conclude that direct predation by perch on Chaoborus larvae is the most likely explanation for the observed changes in their life cycle and density. It appears that the C. flavicans population of Lake Myravatn is approaching extinction.
Expectations of new treatment in rheumatoid arthritis: developing a patient‐generated questionnaire
Authors: Hofmann Darija , Ibrahim Fowzia , Rose Diana , Scott David L. , Cope Andrew , Wykes Til , Lempp Heidi
Published: April 2013

Background

Service‐user partnerships in research exist in mental health, but there have been few advances in other disciplines, apart from cancer.

Objectives

To develop a patient‐generated expectancy measure for new treatments in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), using a participatory method.

Method

Stage 1: three repeated focus groups and two expert panels with patients withRAconducted by a patient researcher to generate items for the draft questionnaire. Stage 2: feasibility study of draft scale with consecutive outpatient attendees.

Results

Patients identified 21 dimensions of new treatment expectations, grouped into (i) physical, (ii) psycho‐social and (iii) expectations relating to the impact of treatment. This resulted in a draft instrument assessed in a feasibility study.

Discussion and Conclusion

The participatory research method was useful in involving patients actively in research and to produce collaboratively a feasible, valid and acceptable measure inRA. The scale will be included in a longitudinal observational study, with newly diagnosed patients, to assess (i) whether the new scale demonstrates sensitivity to change for expectations when receiving new treatment and (ii) participants' completion rate of the new scale compared with five instruments included in the future study.
Preliminary Model and Technology of Piezoelectric Low Temperature Co‐fired Ceramic (LTCC) Uniaxial Accelerometer
Authors: Jurków Dominik , Dąbrowski Arkadiusz , Golonka Leszek , Zawada Tomasz
Published: April 2013

Design procedure, technology and basic properties of a piezoelectric Low Temperature Co‐fired Ceramics (LTCC) accelerometer are presented in this paper. The sensor consists of a LTCC membrane with a seismic mass. Meggitt InSensor® PZT thick film has been applied as the sensing material. Finite element method (FEM) has been used to analyze the impact of the sensor geometry (membrane thickness, membrane and seismic mass radii) and PZT thick film placement on basic properties (sensitivity and bandwidth) of the device. The LTCC process was optimized in order to create thin and planar ceramic membrane with relatively huge seismic mass. Selected properties of the sensor have been measured and compared with the simulated ones.
Glass: The Nanotechnology Connection
Authors: Mauro John C. , Ellison Adam J. , Pye L. David
Published: April 2013

Nanoscale science and engineering, or “nanotechnology” as it is commonly known, has been a fundamental component of glass technology for hundreds if not thousands of years. Numerous examples can be found where our understanding of glass at the nanoscale level has proved transformational in the fabrication and application of this material. Among these are band theory, photosensitivity, ligand field theory, glass structure, microcrack theory, amorphous phase separation, controlled crystallization, and surface modification. Modern applications of glass in such diverse fields as energy, medicine, electronics, photonics, and communications are critically dependent on our awareness and appreciation of the intrinsic connections between glass and nanotechnology. Starting at the low end of the nanoscale, we review fundamental aspects of these connections with the intent of drawing attention to their role in both contemporary and future glass science and engineering. We argue that many of the most useful and interesting behaviors of glass are born at the nanoscale, even when we initially do not notice it.
Nanostructures and “Nanonothingness” in Unique Glass Microspheres
Authors: Wicks George
Published: April 2013

Nanostructures and “Nanonothingness” of porous‐wall hollow glass microspheres (PW‐HGMs) can be used to produce unique composites and systems with important applications in a variety of fields, including alternative and renewable energy, homeland security, environmental remediation and medicine.
Modelling sorption kinetic of sponge cake crumb added with milk syrup
Authors: Díaz‐Ramírez Mayra , Calderón‐Domínguez Georgina , Chanona‐Pérez J. Jorge , Janovitz‐Klapp Arturo , López‐Santiago Rubén , Farrera‐Rebollo Reynold R. , de la Paz Salgado‐Cruz Ma
Published: April 2013

Sponge cake is an ideal product to be soaked with liquids, due to its porous structure; baking process causes differences in crumb features through the cake; therefore, it is important to know how these variations can affect its sorption capacity. The aim of this work was to study the relation between crumb cake structure at different levels (bottom, centre and top) and sorption characteristics when adding milk syrup. The Peleg model was the best to fit sorption data (R2 > 0.9), showing that the rate constant (k1) diminished as the cell density (r = 0.920) and gelatinisation percentage (r = 0.890) decreased, while moisture (r = −0.999) and aw (r = −0.994) increased; cell density only correlated with gelatinisation percentage (r = 0.997); micrographs showed that the sorption rate increased as more gelatinised starch and coagulated protein were found. To optimise the sorption process, the gelatinisation degree and crumb structure (cell density and types of pores) should be considered.
A Buddhist‐based meditation practice for care and healing: An introduction and its application
Authors: Oshita Daien , Hattori Koji , Iwakuma Miho
Published: April 2013

This paper outlines Buddhist‐based meditation in terms of its spiritual, psychotherapeutic, physiological and neuroscientific perspectives. In the latter part of this paper, a pilot study is discussed, in which Japanese university students volunteered to practice meditation at home and complete questionnaires. T‐tests were performed to compare with the non‐meditated control group. Although only a small number in the experimental group completed the study, our analyses demonstrated that students benefited from meditation and showed significant increases in their sense of coherence, self‐esteem and purpose in life. Lastly, practical implications of meditation in contemporary Japanese society are discussed.
Temari Reiki: A new hands‐off approach to traditional Reiki
Authors: Townsend Jane Stewart
Published: April 2013

This paper encapsulates the history of Reiki, an ancient healing art, from its origins in Japan to current practice in the United States. It defines Reiki therapy and discusses the development of a new Reiki method called Temari Reiki and the use of two additional chakras. Lastly, sample clients scenarios are provided. Because of the success of Temari Reiki in my practice, recommendations include that it be integrated as therapy to augment traditional Western medicine‐based patient care plans for patients with cancer, pain, stress and other disabling health issues. Also, additional research using randomized clinical trials is recommended to examine the benefits of Temari Reiki for improving patients' well‐being in mind, body and spirit.
A cross‐cultural experience at midnight
Authors: Niimura Junko
Published: April 2013

This essay is a story about a cultural interaction between a Japanese mother and a Chinese young mother whose baby was premature. When I was staying in a hospital in Japan to deliver my second son, I shared a room with this mother. She delivered her baby very early—at 25 weeks of pregnancy. Her baby received extensive medical treatment in the neonatal intensive care unit. However, this Chinese young mother appeared bewildered about the communication from the Japanese hospital staff because Japanese hospital's communication about the medical care of premature infants was very different from China. One day at midnight, she spoke with me about having deep uneasiness about the situation and having many unanswered questions. After this cultural experience, I began to think more deeply about cultural differences in terms of health and illness and the influence of universal health insurance on the lives of the families of premature infants. I also recognized that the value of life is not calculated in the same fashion globally.
Regulation of circadian locomotor rhythm by neuropeptide Y‐like system in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: He C. , Cong X. , Zhang R. , Wu D. , An C. , Zhao Z.
Published: April 2013

Circadian rhythms in behaviour and physiology exist widely in animals, plants, fungi and cyanobacteria. Although much work has been carried out to characterize the endogenous clock circuit, the output signals coupling the circadian pacemaker to behaviour and physiology remain elusive. Here, we show that neuropeptide F (NPF), a homologue of mammalian neuropeptide Y, and its G protein‐coupled receptor NPFR1 regulate the locomotor rhythm in Drosophila melanogaster. Flies with loss of function in NPF or NPFR1 were unable to ramp up their activity before lights off under light : dark (LD) cycles, and oscillations in npf/NPF and npfr1/NPFR1 were found to correlate temporally with the locomotor rhythm. Furthermore, NPF is expressed in clock neurones including dorsolateral neurones (LNds) and ventrolateral neurones (LNvs), whereas NPFR1 is expressed in dorsal neurone 1 (DN1) and LNds. These results show that NPF signalling is involved in the circadian locomotor rhythm in LD cycles.
Polyphenol oxidase inactivation and vitamin C degradation kinetics of Fuji apple quarters by high humidity air impingement blanching
Authors: Bai Jun‐Wen , Gao Zhen‐Jiang , Xiao Hong‐Wei , Wang Xiao‐Tuo , Zhang Qian
Published: April 2013

In this study, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and vitamin C were used as the indicators of enzymes and nutrients to evaluate the apple quality during high humidity air impingement blanching (HHAIB) process. The PPO can be completely inactivated within 7 min at 90–120 °C and can retain relatively more vitamin C in the case of PPO fully inactivation. PPO inactivation followed zero‐order kinetics model at 90 and 100 °C, and followed first‐order fraction model at 110 and 120 °C. Activation energy (Ea) of PPO inactivation was between 11.61 and 13.66 kJ mol−1 by Arrhenius equation. Vitamin C degradation under all processing temperatures was well described by first‐order model and its Ea value was 26.69 kJ mol−1. Therefore, the HHAIB process was proved to be an effective pretreatment for Fuji apple quarters to inactivate PPO fast and meanwhile to maintain produce quality.
An Analysis of Relapse Prevention Factors and Their Ability to Predict Sustained Abstinence Following Treatment Completion
Authors: Farabee David , McCann Michael , Brecht Mary‐Lynn , Cousins Sarah J. , Antonini Valerie P. , Lee Anne B. , Hemberg Jordana , Karno Mitch , Rawson Richard A.
Published: April 2013

Background & Objectives

This study assessed the role of 14 specific relapse‐prevention activities and their underlying factors in maintaining abstinence among subjects (N = 302) completing outpatient treatment for stimulant dependence.

Methods

We examined what broader dimensions might subsume the 14 items constituting the Drug Avoidance Activities checklist (Farabee et al. J Subst Abuse Treat 2002;23:343–350), and how well these derived factors predicted concurrent drug use at baseline and again 3 and 12 months later.

Results

Although four factors were identified consistently for the three time points, only avoidance strategies had sufficient internal consistency to be retained for further analysis. Controlling for age, gender, and ethnicity, the avoidance subscale was a significant predictor of UA results at all time periods: a one‐point increase in the avoidance strategies scale was associated with an 86% increase in odds of a negative UA at baseline (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.37–2.53, p < .001), a 77% increase at 3‐month follow‐up (OR = 1.77, CI = 1.37–2.29, p < .001), and a 37% increase at 12‐month follow‐up (OR = 1.37, CI = 1.04–1.81, p = .026).

Conclusions

Although correlations of individual items with UA results showed statistically significant (p < .05) results for 8 of 14 items at one or more observation points, avoidance‐related behaviors showed the strongest associations with sustained abstinence. (Am J Addict 2013; 22:206–211)
Physicians' Beliefs about the Nature of Addiction: A Survey of Primary Care Physicians and Psychiatrists
Authors: Lawrence Ryan E. , Rasinski Kenneth A. , Yoon John D. , Curlin Farr A.
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives

Society debates whether addiction is a disease, a response to psychological woundedness, or moral failing.

Method

We surveyed a national sample of 1427 US primary care physicians (PCPs) and 487 psychiatrists, asking “In your judgment, to what extent is alcoholism/drug addiction each of the following? A) a disease B) a response to psychological woundedness C) a result of moral failings.”

Results

The response rate was 63% for PCPs and 64% for psychiatrists. More psychiatrists than PCPs consider addiction a disease (64% versus 56%). Some PCPs (31%) and psychiatrists (27%) attribute addiction to psychological woundedness. More psychiatrists than PCPs said addiction is “not at all” due to moral failings (55% versus 39%).

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

The disease model for addiction is prominent among physicians, but exists alongside beliefs that addiction is a response to psychological woundedness, or a result of moral failings. (Am J Addict 2013; 22:255–260)
Steps Physicians Report Taking to Reduce Diversion of Buprenorphine
Authors: Yang Amy , Arfken Cynthia L. , Johanson Chris‐Ellyn
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives

Physicians are challenged to effectively treat opioid dependent patients while minimizing diversion of potentially abusable medications, such as buprenorphine. The present study was designed to obtain information on steps physicians report taking to reduce diversion of buprenorphine.

Method

National quarterly surveys from 2008 to 2009 of qualified physicians who have prescribed buprenorphine were analyzed (N = 2,330). One part of the survey queried physicians about what steps they had taken to reduce abuse and diversion of buprenorphine from a pre‐specified list of 12 steps. Other parts of the survey included questions on the physicians' training and experience.

Results

Physicians reported taking a mean of 4.4 steps. Longer experience prescribing buprenorphine, more buprenorphine‐related educational training, and concern about diversion as a limitation on using buprenorphine for maintenance were associated with higher number of steps taken.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Physicians are currently taking multiple steps to reduce diversion. Future research needs to verify if these steps are effective or are instead reducing access to treatment. (Am J Addict 2013; 22:184–187)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Nicotine Transdermal Patch for Dual Nicotine and Cannabis Dependence: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hill Kevin P. , Toto Lindsay H. , Lukas Scott E. , Weiss Roger D. , Trksak George H. , Rodolico John M. , Greenfield Shelly F.
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives

We assessed the feasibility of a new cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) manual, plus transdermal patch nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), to treat co‐occurring nicotine and cannabis dependence.

Method

Seven of 12 (58.3%) adults with DSM‐IV diagnoses of both nicotine and cannabis dependence completed 10 weeks of individual CBT and NRT.

Results

Participants smoked 12.6 ± 4.9 tobacco cigarettes per day at baseline, which was reduced to 2.1 ± 4.2 at the end of treatment (F[5] = 23.5, p < .0001). The reduction in cannabis use from 10.0 ± 5.3 inhalations per day at baseline to 8.0 ± 5.3 inhalations per day at 10 weeks was not significant (F[5] = 1.12, p = .37). There was a significant decrease from the mean baseline Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence scores at weeks 4, 6, 8, and 10 of treatment (F[4] = 19.8, p < .001) and mean Client Satisfaction Questionnaire scores were uniformly high (30.6 ± 1.9).

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

A CBT plus NRT treatment program significantly reduced tobacco smoking but did not significantly reduce cannabis use in individuals with co‐occurring nicotine and cannabis dependence. There was no compensatory increase in cannabis use following the reduction in tobacco smoking, suggesting that clinicians can safely pursue simultaneous treatment of co‐occurring nicotine and cannabis dependence. The intervention was well‐liked by the 7 of the 12 enrollees who completed the study. (Am J Addict 2013; 22:233–238)
Frequency and Severity of Comorbid Mood and Anxiety Disorders in Prescription Opioid Dependence
Authors: Gros Daniel F. , Milanak Melissa E. , Brady Kathleen T. , Back Sudie E.
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives

Comorbid substance use disorders and mood and anxiety disorders are associated with more severe psychiatric symptoms, social and occupational impairment, and economic burden. To date, the majority of research has focused on comorbidity in illicit drug users, rather than prescription drug users. To address this gap in the literature, the present cross‐sectional study investigated the clinical profiles of individuals with prescription opioid dependence with or without comorbid mood and anxiety disorders.

Methods

Ninety individuals with prescription opioid use were recruited to participate in the study procedures. All participants completed a structured clinical interview and series of self‐report measures.

Results and Conclusions

Of the 85 individuals with prescription opioid dependence, 47.1% (n = 40) were diagnosed with a comorbid mood or anxiety disorder. The findings showed that individuals with prescription opioid dependence and comorbid mood and anxiety disorders demonstrated significantly more severe alcohol use, psychiatric symptoms, and sleep impairment than individuals without comorbidity.

Scientific Significance

The findings highlight the frequency and severity of co‐occurring mood and anxiety disorders in individuals with prescription opioid dependence and suggest that integrated interventions are needed to address these growing problems. (Am J Addict 2013; 22:261–265)
Predictors of Frequent Withdrawal Management Unit Use among Chronically Homeless, Homeless, and Housed Men: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Svoboda Tomislav
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives

Reports suggest that repeat users of detoxification services are less likely to get rehabilitated. The goal of this study is to determine rates and predictors of detoxification unit visits among individuals who are chronically homeless with severe drinking problems compared to those who are housed and in the general homeless population.

Methods

Visit records (n = 1027) from all inner city Toronto detoxification units (n = 5) by men (n = 169) over a 6 year period were analyzed and linked to structured interview data for three populations: chronically homeless individuals with severe drinking problems (CHDP, n = 50); members of the general homeless population (GH, n = 61); and low‐income housed individuals (LIH, n = 58).

Results

The CHDP group had 4.13 (3.86, 4.39) detoxification unit admissions per year, 18.1 (95% CI 12.5–23.7) and 33 (95% CI 21–46) times higher than the GH and LIH groups respectively. Admission rates were 43.8 % (95% CI 32.7–54.9%) higher in the winter than summer months for the CHDP group. The proportions of stays that involved police, leaving without discharge, and staying two days or less were 74%, 75%, and 89% among CHDP, GH, and LIH subjects.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Rather than being a resource for achieving abstinence, frequent short visits, treatment non‐compliance, higher winter visit rates suggest that detoxification units are more likely used by individuals as shelter; high rates of admission related police involvement suggest that they continue to be used as an alternative to judicial intervention into public inebriation. (Am J Addict 2013; 22:226–232)
Thoracoscopic Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair in a Warmblood Mare
Authors: Röcken Michael , Mosel Gesine , Barske Katharine , Witte Tanja S.
Published: April 2013

Objective

To describe successful repair of a diaphragmatic hernia in a standing sedated horse using a minimally invasive thoracoscopic technique.

Study Design

Clinical report.

Animals

Warmblood mare with a diaphragmatic hernia.

Results

An 18‐year‐old Warmblood mare with severe colic was referred for surgical treatment of small intestinal strangulation in a diaphragmatic defect. Twelve days after initial conventional colic surgery, left‐sided laparoscopy in the standing sedated mare for diaphragmatic herniorrhaphy failed because the spleen obscured the hernia. One week later, a left‐sided thoracoscopy was performed in the standing sedated horse and the hernia repaired by an intrathoracic suture technique. No long‐term complications occurred (up to 4 years) and the mare returned to her previous athletic activity, followed by use as a broodmare.

Conclusions

To avoid the high risks associated with general anesthesia, and to reduce surgical trauma and postoperative recovery, central diaphragmatic hernias are amenable to repair using a minimally invasive thoracoscopic technique in the standing sedated horse.
Top income shares in Canada: recent trends and policy implications
Authors: Veall Michael R.
Published: April 2013

AbstractAccording to Canadian taxfiler data, over the last thirty years there has been a surge in the income shares of the top 1%, top 0.1% and top 0.01% of income recipients, even with longitudinal smoothing by individual using three‐ or five‐year moving averages. Top shares fell in 2008 and 2009, but only by a fraction of the overall surge. Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario have much more pronounced surges than other provinces. Part of the Canadian surge is likely attributable to U.S. factors, but a comprehensive explanation remains elusive. Even so, I draw implications for policies that might achieve some support from across the political spectrum, including the elimination of tax preferences that favour those with high incomes, the promotion of shareholder democracy and, to maintain Canada's relatively high intergenerational mobility, continued wide accessibility to healthcare and education.
Phylogenetic diversity of geometrid moths decreases with elevation in the tropical Andes
Authors: Brehm Gunnar , Strutzenberger Patrick , Fiedler Konrad
Published: April 2013

Species diversity of geometrid moths (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) has previously been shown to be extremely and constantly high along a continuously forested elevational gradient in the Andes of southern Ecuador. We analysed samples taken from 32 sites between 1999 and 2011 in northern Podocarpus National Park and adjacent areas from 1020 to 2916 m a.s.l. We conjecture that high elevation habitats were historically mostly colonised by species from lower elevations, and that environmental filtering (e.g. through host plant specificity or temperature tolerance) constrained colonisation from lower elevations, which would yield a pattern of elevationally decreasing phylogenetic diversity. We analysed elevational phylogenetic patterns by means of: 1) the nearest‐taxon index (NTI), 2) DNA barcode‐based terminal branch lengths (TBLs) from maximum‐likelihood phylogeny, 3) the subfamily composition of the local assemblages, and 4), the rarefied number of morphologically defined genera per site.

We counted a total of 1445 species. NTI values significantly increased with elevation, both in a conventional and a rarefaction approach. TBLs decreased significantly with elevation. Subfamily composition profoundly changed with elevation, particularly expressed as an increased proportion of the subfamily Larentiinae and decreased fractions of Sterrhinae and Geometrinae. The number of genera in equally rarefied species resamples significantly decreased with elevation. We conclude that environmental filtering indeed contributed to an altitudinal decrease in moth phylodiversity, but these constraints prevented only relatively few clades from colonising high elevation habitats.
The Price of a Drink – Too Exactly? Flawed Evidence for Minimum Unit Pricing
Authors: Duffy John C.
Published: April 2013

The UK government has been considering whether to introduce minimum unit pricing for alcohol. Extraordinarily precise benefits have been claimed for the measure, down to exactly how many lives a year will be saved. But are the statistics real or illusory? John C. Duffy says they are flawed to the point of uselessness.
Haiti After the Earthquake: Statistics Without Borders
Authors: Orelien Jean , Philippe Robert , Wesner Antwone , Ashley James , Fisher Justin , Scheuren Fritz
Published: April 2013

When a major disaster strikes, urgent needs may be food, water, shelter, medicines – and data. Unless you know the numbers of people involved and how their lives have been affected, giving efficient help is impossible. Statistics Without Borders tries to provide the data. The team that worked on a project in Haiti describe one effort.
Predictors of short‐ and long‐term mortality in first‐ever ischaemic older stroke patients
Authors: Hsu Chia‐Yu , Hu Gwo‐Chi , Chen Yi‐Min , Chen Chiu‐Hsiang , Hu Yu‐Ning
Published: April 2013

Aim

Predictors of short‐ and long‐term all‐cause mortality of older stroke patients were explored.

Methods

Cox regression models were used to estimate the relative risk and 95% confidence intervals (CI) in the database entries of 636 older stroke patients aged 70 years and over.

Results

National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score on admission, age and coronary heart disease were significantly associated with 28‐day death. The hazard ratios for the predictors of long‐term mortality were as follows: NIHSS score, 1.1 (95% CI: 1.07–1.1); serum glucose level, 1.08 (95% CI: 1.01–1.2); serum triglyceride level, 0.6 (95% CI: 0.4–0.8); age, 1.04 (95% CI: 1.01–1.08); and coronary heart disease, 2.7 (95% CI: 1.4–5.4).

Conclusions

NIHSS score on admission, age and coronary heart disease are independent predictors of short‐ and long‐term mortality. Higher glucose and lower triglyceride level are significantly associated with the long‐term mortality.
Direct Control of Defects on Positron Lifetimes and Dielectric Constant of Microwave Ceramics
Authors: Tang Yu , Zhang Yi , Du Piyi , Deng Wen
Published: April 2013

It is of great importance to discover completely the correlation between the defects and positron lifetimes in positron annihilation technology (PAT) and reveal clearly the effect of defects on the dielectric constant of universal microwave ceramics. In this work, ZnNb2−xTixO6−x (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) dielectric ceramics with nonstoichiometric defects were prepared by solid‐state reaction. All the pores and defects in as‐prepared ceramics were accurately revealed by PAT as a convenient way. The positron lifetimes of τ3 and τ2 in positron annihilation lifetime spectra (PALS) were dependent on two kinds of pores correlated with where o‐Ps atoms and trapping positron annihilated in, whereas τ1 could be separated evidently into τb and τt which are related to bulk structure and negatively charged defects in the system. The dielectric constant of microwave ceramics ZnNb2−xTixO6−x, which increases from 26 to 49 with x increasing from 0 to 0.5 at 10 GHz, is confirmed to be directly controlled by the negatively charged defect of through cation rattling.
Novel Series of Low‐Firing Microwave Dielectric Ceramics: Ca5A4(VO4)6 (A2+ = Mg,Zn)
Authors: Yao Guo‐guang , Liu Peng , Zhang Huai‐wu
Published: April 2013

Using a conventional solid‐state reaction Ca5A4(VO4)6 (A2+ = Mg, Zn) ceramics were prepared and their microwave dielectric properties were investigated for the first time. X‐ray diffraction revealed the formation of pure‐phase ceramics with a cubic garnet structure for both samples. Two promising ceramics Ca5Zn4(VO4)6 and Ca5Mg4(VO4)6 sintered at 725°C and 800°C were found to possess good microwave dielectric properties: εr = 11.7 and 9.2, Q × f = 49 400 GHz (at 9.7 GHz) and 53 300 GHz (at 10.6 GHz), and τf = −83 and −50 ppm/°C, respectively.
Spark Plasma Sintering of Hexagonal Structure Yb3+‐Doped Sr5(PO4)3F Transparent Ceramics
Authors: Chen Shi , Wu Yiquan , Yang Yan
Published: April 2013

Ytterbium‐doped Sr5(PO4)3F transparent ceramics have been developed through spark plasma sintering (SPS) with a low sintering temperature and short dwelling time. The XRD patterns show a polycrystalline hexagonal phase, and the TEM microstructure characterization indicates that the ceramics have a narrow grain size distribution which ranges from 40 to 200 nm, with an average grain size around 150 nm. The transmittance of a 2 mm thick ceramic sample is measured to be 74% at 1000 nm by a UV–Vis–NIR spectrophotometer. Furthermore, there is a strong emission peak around 1040 nm which has a lifetime of 1.06 ms and is exhibited by a PL spectrometer with the 980 nm laser diode excitation.
Characterization of a novel cell line from the caudal fin of koi carp Cyprinus carpio
Authors: Lin S.‐L. , Cheng Y.‐H. , Wen C.‐M. , Chen S.‐N.
Published: April 2013

A continuous cell line (KF‐101) derived from the caudal fin of the koi carp Cyprinus carpio was established and characterized. The KF‐101 cell line multiplied abundantly in Leibovitz's L‐15 medium containing 10% foetal bovine serum at 25° C, and was subcultured for >90 passages over a period of 3 years. Immunocytochemistry revealed that the KF‐101 cells contain keratin, junction proteins connexin‐43 and occludin, and ectodermal stem‐cell marker Pax‐6, but not vimentin. Furthermore, the KF‐101 cells reacted with anti‐human DARPP‐32 and anti‐human GATA‐4 antibodies, and the labelling was regulated according to the cell cycle. The labels of the DARPP‐32 and GATA‐4 antibodies in the KF‐101 cells were the suggested phosphatase‐1 inhibitor‐1 and GATA‐3, respectively. In addition, the KF‐101 cells were susceptible to koi herpesvirus but were resistant to eel herpesvirus, iridovirus, grouper nodavirus and chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) virus. The results indicate that the KF‐101 cells are suitable materials for investigating biological and virological development.
Establishment of a serum IgG4 cut‐off value for the differential diagnosis of IgG4‐related sclerosing cholangitis: A Japanese cohort
Authors: Ohara Hirotaka , Nakazawa Takahiro , Kawa Shigeyuki , Kamisawa Terumi , Shimosegawa Tooru , Uchida Kazushige , Hirano Kenji , Nishino Takayoshi , Hamano Hideaki , Kanno Atsushi , Notohara Kenji , Hasebe Osamu , Muraki Takashi , Ishida Etsuji , Naitoh Itaru , Okazaki Kazuichi
Published: April 2013

Background and Aim

IgG4‐related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4‐SC) must be precisely distinguished from primary sclerosing cholangitis and cholangiocarcinoma (CC) because the treatments are completely different. However, the pathological diagnosis of IgG4‐SC is difficult. Therefore, highly specific non‐invasive criteria such as serum IgG4 should be established. This study established a cut‐off for serum IgG4 to differentiate IgG4‐SC from respective controls using serum IgG4 levels measured in Japanese centers.

Methods

A total of 344 IgG4‐SC patients were enrolled in this study. As controls, 245, 110, and 149 patients with pancreatic cancer, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and CC, respectively, were enrolled. IgG4‐SC patients were classified into three groups: type 1 (stenosis only in the lower part of the common bile duct), type 2 (stenosis diffusely distributed throughout the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts), and types 3 and 4 (stenosis in the hilar hepatic region) with 246, 56, and 42 patients, respectively. Serum IgG4 levels were compared, and the cut‐offs were established.

Results

The cut‐off obtained from receiver operator characteristic curves showed similar sensitivity and specificity to that of 135 mg/dL when all IgG4‐SC and controls were compared. However, a new cut‐off value was established when subgroups of IgG4‐SC and controls were compared. A cut‐off of 182 mg/dL can increase the specificity to 96.6% (4.7% increase) for distinguishing types 3 and 4 IgG4‐SC from CC. A cut‐off of 207 mg/dL might be useful for completely distinguishing types 3 and 4 IgG4‐SC from all CC.

Conclusions

Serum IgG4 is useful for the differential diagnosis of IgG4‐SC and controls.
Young Adult Romantic Couples’ Conflict Resolution and Satisfaction Varies with Partner's Attention–Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Type
Authors: Canu Will H. , Tabor Lindsey S. , Michael Kurt D. , Bazzini Doris G. , Elmore Alexis L.
Published: April 2013

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has previously been associated with less satisfaction and success in romantic relationships. This study compares conflict resolution and problem‐solving behaviors in young adult romantic couples either having one partner with ADHD combined type (C‐couples), having one partner identified with ADHD inattentive type (IA‐couples), or in which neither partner has an ADHD diagnosis (nondiagnosed [ND] couples). Self‐reports of current and childhood ADHD symptoms corroborated diagnostic status and speaker and listener behaviors, coded via the Rapid Couples Interaction Scoring System (Gottman, 1996), were the primary dependent variables. Analyses revealed greater negativity and less positivity in C‐couples’ behavior during a conflict resolution task, relative to IA and ND couples, and this corresponded with couples’ relational satisfaction. IA‐couples emitted relational behavior that was largely similar to ND couples. Findings support that relational impairment exists in C‐couples, and to some degree, contrast with previous research suggesting that individuals with predominant inattention experience greater social impairment in adulthood than those with other types of ADHD.
The Impact of Behavioral Couple Therapy on Attachment in Distressed Couples
Authors: Benson Lisa A. , Sevier Mia , Christensen Andrew
Published: April 2013

Emotion‐focused therapy (EFT; Greenberg & Johnson, Emotionally focused therapy for couples. New York: Guilford Press) is anchored in attachment theory (Johnson, 2003 Attachment processes in couples and families. New York: Guilford) and considers change in attachment schemas essential in the process of improving satisfaction in relationships (Johnson, 1999, Research and couples therapy: Where do we go from here? American Family Therapy Academy Newsletter). However, there are little data on how measures of attachment change over the course of EFT or any other couple therapy. The current study examines whether increases in attachment security predict improvements in marital satisfaction during behavioral couple therapy, which would suggest that change in attachment style is a key process variable even for a non‐attachment‐focused treatment. Multilevel models of data from 134 couples participating in a randomized clinical trial of integrative behavioral couple therapy and traditional behavioral couple therapy (Christensen et al. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 72, 2004, 176) indicate that although there is a trend for early change in attachment‐related anxiety and avoidance to predict later change in marital satisfaction, early change in marital satisfaction strongly predicts change in attachment‐related anxiety through the end of treatment and 2‐year follow‐up. These findings suggest that changes in satisfaction may lead to changes in attachment rather than the reverse and that change in attachment may not be the mechanism of change in all efficacious couple therapy.
Why Do I Feel Valued and Why Do I Contribute? A Relational Approach to Employee's Organization‐Based Self‐Esteem and Job Performance
Authors: Liu Jun , Hui Chun , Lee Cynthia , Chen Zhen Xiong
Published: April 2013

abstract

Drawing on the relational perspective and self‐consistency theory, we theorize how relationships involving work‐centric, off‐work‐centric, and/or personal components can affect an employee's organization‐based self‐esteem and job performance in Chinese organizational contexts. Matched data were collected from a multi‐source sample that included 219 employee–supervisor dyads from a Chinese bank. Results based on hierarchical regression analyses reveal that a high‐quality relationship with a supervisor through work and off‐work domains (leader–member exchange and guanxi) is positively related to organization‐based self‐esteem. Organization‐based self‐esteem plays a mediating role in the relationship between guanxi and job performance. Additionally, career mentoring from a supervisor (a work‐centric relationship involving personal components) moderates the relationship between organization‐based self‐esteem and job performance.
Detection of claudin‐4 in salivary gland neoplasms (a study utilizing RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry)
Authors: Abd El‐Ghani Safa F. , Kasem Rehab F. , Ghallab Noha A. , Shaker Olfat G.
Published: April 2013

Background

Claudins are transmembrane proteins of tight junctions emerging as targets for diagnosis, prediction of prognosis, disease recurrence, and metastasis. Our goal was to evaluate expression of claudin‐4 in the most common benign and malignant salivary gland neoplasms.

Methods

Claudin‐4 gene levels and protein expression were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and immunohistochemistry in a total of 30 specimens containing normal salivary tissue, pleomorphic adenoma, Warthin's tumor, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, and adenoid cystic carcinoma.

Results

We identified down‐regulation of claudin‐4 gene levels and protein expression from normal control to benign salivary gland neoplasms and reached their lowest values in the malignant salivary gland neoplasms.

Conclusions

Low claudin‐4 expression could be considered as a sign of increasing cellular disorientation and invasion of salivary gland tumors.
Putative cancer stem cell marker expression in oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: AbdulMajeed Ahmad A. , Dalley Andrew J. , Farah Camile S.
Published: April 2013

Multifactorial conditions underlie progression of potentially malignant oral lesions (PMOL) to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and there is currently need for better prediction of malignant transformation. The hypothesised existence of cancer stem cells in dysplastic oral tissues provides the potential for more informed assessment of PMOL progression. Semi‐quantitative immunohistochemical assessment of four putative cancer stem cell markers (CD24, CD44, CD271 and ALDH1) was conducted with a training cohort of 107 patient biopsies to establish clinically applicable score threshold values that were subsequently applied to a blind diagnosis in an independent validation cohort of 278 biopsies. Stain intensity scores for ALDH1, CD24 and CD44, but not CD271 were greater for OSCC than normal tissues. The intensity of ALDH1 and CD24 immunostaining correlated with increased oral epithelial disease severity, and CD24 was effective in distinguishing OSCC from non‐malignant tissues, correctly diagnosing 71% of OSCC cases in the validation cohort. Importantly, CD24 immunostaining was effective in diagnosing the presence of dysplasia, correctly discriminating 69% of dysplasia tissues from normal tissues, although no distinction between mild and severe grades of dysplasia was achieved. The results highlight CD24 immunostain intensity as an effective marker of oral dysplasia and OSCC. In conclusion, CD24 immunostain intensity scoring may serve as a helpful technique to assist with the histological recognition of dysplasia in oral biopsies, but not for distinguishing between grades of dysplasia.
Accuracy of infrared thermometers in very low birth weight infants and impact on newborn behavioural states
Authors: Jarvis Melanie , Guy Katelyn J , König Kai
Published: April 2013

Aim

To study the impact on newborn behavioural states and accuracy of three infrared thermometers compared with digital axillary thermometer measurements in very low birth weight infants.

Methods

Single‐centre prospective observational study. Preterm infants born <1500‐g birth weight were eligible. Infants were observed for pre‐measurement behaviour state using a five‐point neonatal behaviour observation tool. One infrared temperature was taken from each of the devices, followed by an axillary measurement. Further behaviour‐state observations were recorded following infrared and axillary measurements.

Results

One hundred measurements were collected from each infrared device among a cohort of 42 very low birth weight infants. Only one infrared device showed satisfactory agreement with bias −0.071 (95% limits of agreement −0.68 to 0.54). The other two devices demonstrated poor agreement: bias −1.34; 95% limits of agreement −2.62 to –0.5 and bias −0.56; 95% limits of agreement −1.38 to 0.25. Neonatal behavioural scores showed only minimal changes when infrared measurements were performed but increased significantly following axillary measurements. The difference between the two modalities was statistically significant with a mean increase of 1.44 points following axillary measurements (95% confidence interval 1.21 to 1.67, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Temperature measurements taken with infrared thermometers demonstrated less disruption to preterm infants' behavioural state, however accuracy of devices varied.
Expression of Coat Protein of an Ordinary Strain of Potato virus Y in Escherichia coli and Production of Polyclonal Antibodies for Diagnosis
Authors: Jeevalatha Arjunan , Kaundal Priyanka , Sharma Nitya Nand , Thakur Priyanka , Chakrabarti Swarup Kumar , Singh Bir Pal
Published: April 2013

The coat protein gene (CP) of an ordinary strain of Potato virus Y (PVYO) was cloned into the expression vector, pET‐28a(+). The insert was sequenced and analysis showed that the CP gene was in frame with intact N‐terminal 6X histidine tags. An approximately 35 kDa recombinant fusion protein was observed in inclusion bodies of induced Escherichia coli BL21 cells. This fusion protein was purified and used as antigen to raise polyclonal antibodies in rabbits. In Western blot and dot blot immuno‐binding assay (DIBA), both PVYO‐CP IgG and PVYO IgG strongly reacted with the recombinant CP. The PVYO‐CP IgG could detect PVYO in infected samples up to 1 : 3200 dilutions. A PVYO‐CP ELISA kit was prepared and compared with conventional ELISA kit based on purified virus particles (PVYO ELISA kit). The PVYO‐CP ELISA kit consistently detected the PVYO in DAS‐ELISA of field samples and was as effective as PVYO ELISA kit.
Proactive/Responsive Market Orientation and Marketing—Research and Development Integration
Authors: Lamore Paul R. , Berkowitz David , Farrington Phillip A.
Published: April 2013

The level of integration between the marketing and research and development (R&D) functions may be gauged by degree of communication, information sharing, and collaboration between the functions during the new product development process. This article examines how a firm's strategic choice regarding market orientation may influence the relationship between marketing and R&D personnel, and how this relationship may affect organizational success. Under examination are both the responsive form of market orientation, in which a firm focuses on immediate customer needs and tends to be market driven, and the proactive form, in which the firm focuses on future market needs and tends to be invention driven. It is theorized that responsive market orientation will be more positively related to marketing‐R&D integration due to the market‐driven nature of the orientation. Conversely, it is theorized proactive market orientation will be more positively related to organizational success than responsive market orientation due to the innovation‐driven nature of the orientation. The study was implemented via a Web‐based survey and data analysis was performed using structural equation modeling techniques. The results of this study provide empirical evidence that both proactive and responsive market orientation exhibit a positive relationship with marketing–R&D integration, indicating that both forms of market orientation may lead to closer collaboration between the marketing and R&D functions. Despite the assumption that a proactive orientation is driven by innovation and technology in which R&D may play a more significant role, there is evidence that a high degree of synergy is developed between the groups when the focus is on future market needs. A market‐driven responsive orientation by necessity requires high integration between departments to commercialize products in a timely manner to meet current market needs. Proactive market orientation exhibits a positive relationship with market performance, whereas responsive market orientation does not. The result may show evidence of the “new product paradox," whereby developing products to address immediate market needs may result in lower market performance because the new products may be replacements for obsolete offerings or are actually cannibalizing sales of existing products.