bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variable inbreeding effects across life‐history stages in a captive carnivorous mammal population
Authors: Bilski D. R. , Pie M. R. , Passos F. C.
Published: April 2013

Studies evaluating inbreeding depression and purging in captive populations often focus on a single life‐history stage, commonly juvenile survival, using it as a binomial response variable to model inbreeding effects. Through the use of a statistical procedure known as survival analysis, and focusing on four life stages, we examined the effects of inbreeding and other demographic and life‐history variables on the survival of the bush dog Speothos venaticus captive population. Through generalized linear mixed models, we assessed the impact of these variables upon litter sizes and proportional viability of pups within a litter. We found a negligible effect of inbreeding on survival in two viability periods up to weaning age. On the other two life stages, up to the age of sexual maturity, inbreeding assumed a negative effect on survival. Individual inbreeding led to decreased litter size, whereas maternal age negatively affected litter sizes and the proportional viability of pups within the litter. Partial purging could have removed some genetic load in this captive population; however, our results indicate that even in populations maintained in benign conditions of captivity, deleterious effects of inbreeding are differentially expressed across life‐history stages. Our results also underscore that investigating a single life‐history stage could lead to erroneous conclusions about inbreeding and purging effects, misguiding management of captive populations.
Applying workability in the Australian residential aged care context
Authors: Brooke Elizabeth , Goodall Joanne , Handrus Maxwell , Mawren Daveena
Published: April 2013

The study is based on an innovative demonstration project which trialled the implementation of the Finnish ‘workability’ framework and research measures. It aimed, firstly, to test the applicability of the Workability Index (WAI) to the Australian residential aged care workforce, focusing on personal care assistants (PCAs), and secondly, to assess the effectiveness of actions aimed at improving workability. The facility manager implemented multidimensional ‘actions’ according to the workability framework. The Workability Survey (WAS) and WAI and intervention instruments were administered (n = 64). Completed responses to ‘pre’ and ‘post’ instruments formed matched pairs (n = 15). WAI scores increased significantly, by 3 points on average, after all ‘actions’ were implemented. The only significant ‘action’ was increasing the number of PCAs in high care. Workability provides a useful research workforce development instrument measuring interactions between aged care workers and organisational demands and the outcomes of ‘actions’.
Believe, and You Will Achieve: Changes over Time in Self‐Efficacy, Engagement, and Performance
Authors: Ouweneel Else , Schaufeli Wilmar B. , Le Blanc Pascale M.
Published: April 2013

In order to answer the question whether changes in students' self‐efficacy levels co‐vary with similar changes in engagement and performance, a field study and an experimental study were conducted among university students. In order to do this, we adopted a subgroup approach. We created “natural” (Study 1) and manipulated (Study 2) subgroups based upon their change in self‐efficacy over time and examined whether these subgroups showed similar changes over time in engagement and performance. The results of both studies are partly in line with Social Cognitive Theory, in that they confirm that changes in self‐efficacy may have a significant impact on students' changes in cognition and motivation (i.e. engagement), as well as behavior (i.e. performance). More specifically, our results show that students' increases/decreases in self‐efficacy were related to corresponding increases/decreases in their study engagement and task performance over time. Examining the consequences of changes in students' self‐efficacy levels seems promising, both for research and practice.
Eruption of first permanent incisors and live weight gain in grazing yearling Angora goats
Authors: McGregor BA , Butler KL
Published: April 2013

Objective

To investigate the effects of the timing and duration of eruption of the first permanent incisors, live weight, sex and other factors on contemporaneous live weight gain in Angora goats.

Design

Goats were previously part of a pen study on the effects of energy intake of Angora does during pregnancy and lactation on kid development. The design was 3 levels of nutrition in mid‐pregnancy by 2 levels of postnatal nutrition in 17 randomised blocks.

Methods

Artificial insemination, ultrasound examination and feeding does in pens enabled accurate conduct of the study. After weaning, goats were grazed in sex groups. Live weight change between 14 and 20 months of age was related to deciduous first incisor loss and permanent first incisor development and other attributes assessed before the study.

Results

Live weight change was related to the elapsed time for first permanent incisors to commence eruption and to the length of time for first permanent incisors to erupt. This response was affected by sex. Over summer and autumn, entire males with short eruption intervals gained 2–3 kg more than entire males with long eruption intervals. Females that reached first permanent incisor eruption by mid‐summer had a live weight gain of 3 kg more than those that reached the same development 3 months later.

Conclusions

Live weight change in yearling Angora goats was associated with the process of first permanent incisor eruption. In females, live weight gain was greater when first permanent incisor eruption was earlier. In males, live weight gain was greater when first permanent incisor eruption was faster.
Epistaxis in racehorses: risk factors and effects on career
Authors: Langford JL , Thomson PC , Knight PK
Published: April 2013

Objective

To profile Thoroughbreds that incurred a ban underAustralianRule ofRacing 53A onNewSouthWales racetracks between August 1999 and July 2008, determine the effect on their careers and identify the factors that predict whether these horses would race again or experience a recurrence of epistaxis.

Methods

Differences between horses that did or did not return to racing and did or did not suffer recurrent epistaxis were determined. Backwards stepwise logistic regression was used to identify variables predicting a return to racing and recurrence of epistaxis.

Results

The mean (±SD) age at the first episode of epistaxis was 4.90 ± 1.28 years. Males that bled were older, had more career starts and were more likely to race again than females. Horses that were retired from racing after the first episode of epistaxis were older than horses that continued to race. Variables that were significant predictors of retirement were: age at the first episode of epistaxis, sex, percentage of winning starts before the first episode of epistaxis, percentage of placed starts before the first episode of epistaxis and number of starts in the preparation before the first episode of epistaxis. The significant predictors of recurrence of epistaxis were: change in distance between previous start and start at which the second episode occurred and a change in percentage of winning starts, although the odds ratios were low (0.98–0.99).

Conclusions

Females experience epistaxis at a younger age than males. No readily applicable predictors of the recurrence of epistaxis were identified.
Comparison of modern and conventional imaging techniques in establishing multiple myeloma‐related bone disease: a systematic review
Authors: Regelink Josien C. , Minnema Monique C. , Terpos Evangelos , Kamphuis Marjolein H. , Raijmakers Pieter G. , Pieters – van den Bos Indra C. , Heggelman Ben G. F. , Nievelstein Rutger‐Jan , Otten Rene. H. J. , van Lammeren – Venema Danielle , Zijlstra Josee M. , Arens Anne I. J. , de Rooy Jacky W. , Hoekstra Otto S. , Raymakers Reinier , Sonneveld Pieter , Ostelo Raymond W. , Zweegman Sonja
Published: April 2013

This systematic review of studies compared magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET), FDG‐PET with computerized tomography (PET‐CT) and CT with whole body X‐Ray (WBXR) or (whole body) CT in order to provide evidence‐based diagnostic guidelines in multiple myeloma bone disease. A comprehensive search of 3 bibliographic databases was performed; methodological quality was assessed using Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) criteria (score 1–14). Data from 32 directly comparative studies were extracted. The mean QUADAS score was 7·1 (3–11), with quality hampered mainly by a poor description of selection and execution criteria. All index tests had a higher detection rate when compared to WBXR, with up to 80% more lesions detected by the newer imaging techniques; MRI (1·12–1·82) CT (1·04–1·33), PET (1·00–1·58) and PET‐CT (1·27–1·45). However, the modern imaging techniques detected fewer lesions in the skull and ribs. In a direct comparison CT and MRI performed equally with respect to detection rate and sensitivity. This systematic review supports the International Myeloma Working Group guidelines, which recommend that WBCT can replace WBXR. In our opinion, the equal performance of MRI also indicates that it is a valuable alternative. As lesions of the skull and ribs are underdiagnosed by modern imaging techniques we advise additional X‐rays of these regions. The consequences of this approach are discussed.
Long‐term safety and efficacy of sustained eculizumab treatment in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria
Authors: Hillmen Peter , Muus Petra , Röth Alexander , Elebute Modupe O. , Risitano Antonio M. , Schrezenmeier Hubert , Szer Jeffrey , Browne Paul , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Schubert Jörg , Urbano‐Ispizua Alvaro , de Castro Carlos , Socié Gérard , Brodsky Robert A.
Published: April 2013

Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) is characterized by chronic, uncontrolled complement activation resulting in elevated intravascular haemolysis and morbidities, including fatigue, dyspnoea, abdominal pain, pulmonary hypertension, thrombotic events (TEs) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). The long‐term safety and efficacy of eculizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits terminal complement activation, was investigated in 195 patients over 66 months. Four patient deaths were reported, all unrelated to treatment, resulting in a 3‐year survival estimate of 97·6%. All patients showed a reduction in lactate dehydrogenase levels, which was sustained over the course of treatment (median reduction of 86·9% at 36 months), reflecting inhibition of chronic haemolysis. TEs decreased by 81·8%, with 96·4% of patients remaining free of TEs. Patients also showed a time‐dependent improvement in renal function: 93·1% of patients exhibited improvement or stabilization in CKD score at 36 months. Transfusion independence increased by 90·0% from baseline, with the number of red blood cell units transfused decreasing by 54·7%. Eculizumab was well tolerated, with no evidence of cumulative toxicity and a decreasing occurrence of adverse events over time. Eculizumab has a substantial impact on the symptoms and complications of PNH and results a significant improvement in patient survival.
Platelet size for distinguishing between inherited thrombocytopenias and immune thrombocytopenia: a multicentric, real life study
Authors: Noris Patrizia , Klersy Catherine , Gresele Paolo , Giona Fiorina , Giordano Paola , Minuz Pietro , Loffredo Giuseppe , Pecci Alessandro , Melazzini Federica , Civaschi Elisa , Mezzasoma Annamaria , Piedimonte Monica , Semeraro Fabrizio , Veneri Dino , Menna Francesco , Ciardelli Laura , Balduini Carlo L. ,   the Italian ‘Gruppo di Studio delle Piastrine’
Published: April 2013

The most frequent forms of inherited thrombocytopenia (IT) are characterized by platelet size abnormalities and it has been suggested that this parameter is useful for their differentiation from immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Recently, a monocentric study identified cut‐off values for mean platelet volume (MPV) and mean platelet diameter (MPD) with good diagnostic accuracy in this respect. To validate these cut‐off values in a different and larger case series of patients, we enrolled 130 subjects with ITP and 113 with IT in six different centres. The platelet count and MPV was each measured by the instrument routinely used in each institution. In some centres, platelet count was also measured by optical microscopy. MPD was evaluated centrally by image analysis of peripheral blood films. The previously identified cut‐off value for MPV had 91% specificity in distinguishing ITP from inherited macrothrombocytopenias (mono and biallelic Bernard‐Soulier, MYH9‐related disease), while its sensitivity was greatly variable depending on the instrument used. With an appropriate instrument, specificity was 83%. The diagnostic accuracy of MPD was lower than that obtained with MPV. We concluded that MPV is a useful parameter for differentiating ITP from IT provided that it is measured by appropriate cell counters.
Biological nitric oxide signalling: chemistry and terminology
Authors: Heinrich Tassiele A , da Silva Roberto S , Miranda Katrina M , Switzer Christopher H , Wink David A , Fukuto Jon M
Published: April 2013

Biological nitrogen oxide signalling and stress is an area of extreme clinical, pharmacological, toxicological, biochemical and chemical research interest. The utility of nitric oxide and derived species as signalling agents is due to their novel and vast chemical interactions with a variety of biological targets. Herein, the chemistry associated with the interaction of the biologically relevant nitrogen oxide species with fundamental biochemical targets is discussed. Specifically, the chemical interactions of nitrogen oxides with nucleophiles (e.g. thiols), metals (e.g. hemeproteins) and paramagnetic species (e.g. dioxygen and superoxide) are addressed. Importantly, the terms associated with the mechanisms by which NO (and derived species) react with their respective biological targets have been defined by numerous past chemical studies. Thus, in order to assist researchers in referring to chemical processes associated with nitrogen oxide biology, the vernacular associated with these chemical interactions is addressed.
Acute effects of short‐chain alkylglycerols on blood‐brain barrier properties of cultured brain endothelial cells
Authors: Hülper P , Veszelka S , Walter F R , Wolburg H , Fallier‐Becker P , Piontek J , Blasig I E , Lakomek M , Kugler W , Deli M A
Published: April 2013

Background and Purpose

The blood‐brain barrier (BBB) restricts drug penetration to the brain preventing effective treatment of patients suffering from brain tumours. Intra‐arterial injection of short‐chain alkylglycerols (AGs) opens the BBB and increases delivery of molecules to rodent brain parenchyma in vivo. The mechanism underlying AG‐mediated modification of BBB permeability is still unknown. Here, we have tested the effects of AGs on barrier properties of cultured brain microvascular endothelial cells.

Experimental Approach

The effects of two AGs, 1‐O‐pentylglycerol and 2‐O‐hexyldiglycerol were examined using an in vitro BBB model consisting of primary cultures of rat brain endothelial cells, co‐cultured with rat cerebral glial cells. Integrity of the paracellular, tight junction‐based, permeation route was analysed by functional assays, immunostaining for junctional proteins, freeze‐fracture electron microscopy, and analysis of claudin‐claudin trans‐interactions.

Key Results

AG treatment (5 min) reversibly reduced transendothelial electrical resistance and increased BBB permeability for fluorescein accompanied by changes in cell morphology and immunostaining for claudin‐5 and β‐catenin. These short‐term changes were not accompanied by alterations of inter‐endothelial tight junction strand complexity or the trans‐interaction of claudin‐5.

Conclusion and Implications

AG‐mediated increase in brain endothelial paracellular permeability was short, reversible and did not affect tight junction strand complexity. Redistribution of junctional proteins and alterations in the cell shape indicate the involvement of the cytoskeleton in the action of AGs. These data confirm the results from in vivo studies in rodents characterizing AGs as adjuvants that transiently open the BBB.
Praziquantel Derivatives with Antischistosomal Activity: Aromatic Ring Modification
Authors: Wang Zhi‐xia , Chen Jing‐lei , Qiao Chunhua
Published: April 2013

A series of aromatic ring‐modified praziquantel derivatives were prepared and evaluated against juvenile and adult stage of Schistosoma japonicumin. Several analogs comparable in activity to the drug praziquantel have been identified based on in vitro and in vivo japonuicum schistosomes worm viability assay. Structure and activity relationship of these praziquantel aromatic ring‐modified compounds was revealed. Specifically, a compound in which a bromine has been introduced in the aromatic ring of praziquantel demonstrated close antischistosomal activity to praziquantel in vivo.
Factors Impacting Echocardiographic Imaging after the Fontan Procedure: A Report from the Pediatric Heart Network Fontan Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Williams Richard V. , Margossian Renee , Lu Minmin , Atz Andrew M. , Bradley Timothy J. , Jay Campbell Michael , Colan Steven D. , Gallagher Dianne , Lai Wyman W. , Pearson Gail D. , Prakash Ashwin , Shirali Girish , Cohen Meryl S. ,   The Pediatric Heart Network Investigators
Published: April 2013

Echocardiographic image quality in Fontan survivors may be limited by a variety of factors. We sought to describe echocardiographic quality and factors associated with study quality in subjects participating in the Pediatric Heart Network Fontan Cross‐Sectional Study. Echocardiograms were obtained at 7 clinical sites using a standard protocol. Quality grading and analysis were performed by a core laboratory. Univariate and multivariable modeling were performed to assess factors associated with quality and ability to obtain images sufficient for prespecified quantitative analysis. A total of 543 echocardiograms were obtained. The quality of echocardiograms improved over the duration of the study. The great arteries, systemic veins, and pulmonary veins were less likely to be adequately imaged than other cardiac structures. Quantitative analysis of ventricular volume was possible in 76% overall, but only 41% of those with mixed ventricular morphology. Factors independently associated with better quality included younger age, levocardia, acquisition of the echocardiogram at a longer time since the beginning of enrollment, absence of a pulmonary artery stent, and clinical site. Patient and center‐specific factors are associated with echocardiographic quality after the Fontan procedure. Increased familiarity and experience with a standard imaging protocol is likely to result in improved quality.
Quality of life and its socio‐demographic and psychological determinants after bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Janicsák Henriett , Masszi Tamás , Reményi Péter , Ungvari Gabor S. , Gazdag Gábor
Published: April 2013

Objectives

A host of medical, socio‐demographic, and psychological factors that affect bone marrow transplantation (BMT) patients' quality of life (QOL) have been identified, but due to the methodological diversity of the studies, the findings have been contradictory. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of somatic status, social characteristics, and psychological symptoms on QOL in BMT patients.

Methods

The study had a cross‐sectional design. QOL was evaluated using the Hungarian version of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Bone Marrow Transplant (FACT‐BMT) scale. Anxiety and depression were assessed using Spielberger's State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (SSTAI) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). A questionnaire designed for the study was used to record socio‐demographic variables.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐one patients formed the study sample. Patients' QOL was better in our sample than in another study with similar mean time after BMT. BDI scores indicated mild depression; SSTAI scores corresponded with healthy population levels. QOL was strongly influenced by psychological symptoms (depression P < 0.001; anxiety P = 0.001; psychiatric comorbidity P = 0.001), employment status (P = 0.042), and gender (P = 0.05). The somatic factors influenced only separate aspects of QOL; somatic comorbidity only affected cancer‐associated QOL (P = 0.004).

Conclusion

This is the first study on a Hungarian BMT sample that included economic factors in the assessment of QOL. Psychological variables were the strongest determinants of QOL in this study.
Porphyromonas gingivalis biofilms persist after chlorhexidine treatment
Authors: Yamaguchi Mikiyo , Noiri Yuichiro , Kuboniwa Masae , Yamamoto Reiko , Asahi Yoko , Maezono Hazuki , Hayashi Mikako , Ebisu Shigeyuki
Published: April 2013

Chlorhexidine (CHX) gluconate effectively reduces the viability of biofilm‐forming bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis. However, it is impossible to completely remove biofilms. The goal of the present study was to assess the potential pathogenicity of residual P. gingivalis biofilms in vitro after treatment with CHX gluconate. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy and confocal laser imaging revealed that treatment with CHX gluconate disrupted individual biofilm‐forming P. gingivalis cells but did not destroy the biofilms. The volumes of the protein and carbohydrate constituents in the residual biofilms were not significantly different from those of the controls. The physical resistance of the residual biofilms to ultrasonication was significantly higher than that of controls. The volume of P. gingivalis adherent to the residual biofilms was higher than that to saliva‐coated wells. These findings suggest that although CHX gluconate caused disruption of biofilm‐forming cells, the constituents derived from disrupted cells were maintained in the biofilms, which sustained their external structures. Moreover, the residual biofilms could serve as a scaffold for the formation of new biofilms.
Robust Fall Social Displays Predict Spring Reproductive Behavior in Brown‐Headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater ater)
Authors: Kohn Gregory M. , King Andrew P. , Pott Uwe , West Meredith J.
Published: April 2013

The ability to engage others in close proximity may be an essential component of social life and shapes the development of social skills. Variation in the willingness to initiate and sustain close interaction with conspecifics is known as sociability. The Brown‐headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater) uses an affiliative display called the head‐down to bring individuals into close proximity. During fall 2009, we manipulated a large flock of cowbirds in a fission–fusion perturbation and recorded the frequency of head‐downs and social approaches. During the fission–fusion perturbation, the rate of head‐downs remained both correlated and repeatable across perturbations. In spring 2010, we separated individuals into three aviaries, a high, intermediate, and low aviary, based on the frequency of head‐down displays they initiated during the previous fall 2009. When breeding, males in the high flock produced a higher number of songs within counter‐singing matches, and females laid more eggs in comparison with the other aviaries. These findings suggest that head‐down displays performed outside the breeding season may contribute to the development and maintenance of reproductive competence by providing intimate social interactions with others.
The Role of the State in Family Law
Authors: Boshier Hon. Peter , Kreeger Hon. Judith , Czutrin Hon. George , Spelman Julia
Published: April 2013

Jurisdictions around the world have been grappling with the appropriate boundaries for the State's role in family law, particularly during this time of fiscal restraint. This article draws on some of the history and research from New Zealand, Canada and the United States to outline the fundamental elements of a just family law system. The authors suggest that wherever each State draws its boundaries, it should nevertheless provide for each of those elements.

Key points for family court community

The state has a vital role in protecting vulnerable people

The state has a vital role in providing vehicles for dispute resolution

The judge has a leadership role in structuring early intervention in high conflict cases
Association of Family and Conciliation Courts Guidelines for Child Protection Mediation
Authors: Giovannucci Marilou , Largent Karen
Published: April 2013

The Child Protection Mediation Guidelines Workgroup came together under the auspices of the Child Welfare Collaborative Decision Making Network to examine program development and the practice of Child Protection Mediation (CPM). The Workgroup convened and began its work in 2010. The resultant “Guidelines for Child Protection Mediation” was approved by the AFCC Board of Directors in 2012.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

Child Protection Mediation provides an opportunity for families and professionals involved in child abuse and neglect matters to resolve disputes in a safe, inclusive and thoughtful manner.

The Guidelines for Child Protection Mediation establish core principles and strategies for establishing and maintaining high quality child protection mediation programs and practices.

The Guidelines for Child Protection Mediation can serve as a road map for programs and practitioners to follow in their day‐to‐day work with families and their children who are involved with the child welfare system.
The Idea of Family Relationship Centres in Australia
Authors: Parkinson Patrick
Published: April 2013

Family Relationship Centres formed the centrepiece of major reforms to the family law system in Australia which were introduced from 2006 onwards. They were established all over the country between 2006 and 2008, providing information and advice and offering free or heavily subsidised mediation of parenting disputes. They are an early intervention strategy to help parents manage the transition from parenting together to parenting apart in the aftermath of separation, and are intended to lead to significant cultural change in the resolution of post‐separation parenting disputes. They also play a role in strengthening intact family relationships (mainly through advice and referral). This article explains the concept of Family Relationship Centres and how they operate. It also explains the background to their development and how the idea came to be accepted by the Australian Government.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

Describes the concept of the Australian Family Relationship Centres

A community‐centric, rather than court‐centric, approach to resolving issues of parenting after separation

Early indications of success include a decline of about 32% in the number of children's cases filed in Australia over a five year period.
From Helping Court to Community‐Based Services: The 30‐Year Evolution of Australia's Family Relationship Centres
Authors: Moloney Lawrie
Published: April 2013

As a centrepiece of Australia's 2006 family law reforms, the community‐based Family Relationship Centres (FRCs) represented a major development in the Government's commitment to incorporate family relationship services into its family law system. This paper sees FRCs as a logical development of the original conceptualising the Family Court of Australia as a “helping court”. The paper suggests that the aspiration to create a helping court was partially achieved in 1976 via the creation of an in‐house family court counselling service, which was primarily focused not on law and legal principles, but on supporting the ways in which family members were managing the task of redefining relationships. While generally valued by judges and others, this service nonetheless found itself in tension with the Family Court's continued primary commitment to legally informed and adversarially driven negotiation and decision‐making processes. Since 2006, the creation of FRCs has spearheaded a family law system that provides relationship‐focused interventions away from the courts as the default option for most parenting disputes. Consistent with this aim, there is evidence of a diminished percentage of cases now requiring judicial intervention. The 2006 legislation also provides for courts to conduct “less adversarial trials.” Paradoxically, this has occurred alongside unequivocal evidence from the Australian Institute of Family Studies’ evaluation data that judicial officers are dealing mainly with families displaying seriously dysfunctional attitudes and behaviours. The legal challenge in dealing with these cases is for courts to provide child focused, fair and non‐destructive internal processes. In addition, however, it is increasingly clear that to support and help facilitate their decisions, courts also need good working relationships with FRCs and other community based services. FRCs and the 2006 reforms offer the possibility of moving beyond the ideal of a “helping court” to the broader concept of helping family law system.
Family Relationship Centres: partnerships with Legal Assistance Services
Authors: Moloney Lawrie , Kaspiew Rae , De Maio John , Deblaquiere Julie
Published: April 2013

In June 2009, the Commonwealth Attorney General in Australia announced a Family Relationship Centres/ Legal Assistance Partnerships Program, (the “Better Partnerships” program). Its aim was to assist separated or separating families, “by providing access to early and targeted legal information and advice when attending Family Relationship Centres” (McClelland, 2009). After contextualizing this significant shift in policy and practice, the present paper reports on largely positive key results of an evaluation of the program by the Australian Institute of Family Studies. The paper concludes with reflections on future challenges and possibilities regarding ongoing collaboration between Australia's legal and family relationship sectors.
Getting It Right for Families in Australia: Commentary on the April 2013 Special Issue on Family Relationship Centres
Authors: Kelly Joan B.
Published: April 2013

This Commentary provides a brief overview of the search for alternatives to the adversarial legal system for separating parents in the United States as a context for understanding the vision and importance of the Australian legislation, and then turns to a consideration of six critical aspects of the 2006 Family Relationship Centres legislation that were essential to ensuring success from the outset.

Key Points for the Family Court Community and Policy‐makers

Bold and innovative family law reform in Australia created a new alternative pathway of community‐based, non‐adversarial services for separating parents with parenting disputes.

Family Relationship Centers, the centerpiece of the 2006 reforms, provide a first point of entry with a highly integrated matrix of information, referral, and service options, complemented by national advice and legal information resources for parents.

Evaluation of the objectives of the reform legislation indicated a 32% reduction in filings with the Family Court of Australia over five years, increased use of the Family Relationship Centers, reduced use of lawyers for parenting disputes, and significant reduction in costs to the Government for services.

This structure and success of this early intervention service model should be of considerable interest to policy‐makers in other countries.
Unholy Clergy: Amending State Child Abuse Reporting Statutes to Include Clergy Members as Mandatory Reporters in Child Sexual Abuse Cases
Authors: Goldenberg Rachel
Published: April 2013

Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting Statutes date back as early as the 1960s. These statutes require certain individuals to report any instance of suspected child abuse that is made known to them. Individuals who are mandated reporters include, but are not limited to, physicians, therapists, and schoolteachers. Over the past decade, with the eruption of sexual abuse in the Catholic, Jewish, and Mormon communities, special attention has been given to reporting statutes in determining who qualifies as mandated reporters. The clergy‐penitent privilege, which exempts clergy members from having to report instances of abuse made known to them in their religious or otherwise professional capacity, remains one of the last reporting statutory exemptions today. This Note advocates for the abrogation of the clergy‐penitent privilege in cases of child sexual abuse. In religious communities, where religious personnel are often the first to be made aware of child abuse, clergy members should be required to report instances of child sexual abuse in an effort to better protect children.

Keypoints for the Family Court Community

Currently every state in the United States has enacted some form of child abuse reporting statutes.

There is a lack of uniformity among state reporting statutes over who is required to be a mandated reporter of abuse. Nearly half of the states in the U.S. carve out a religious exemption for clergy‐members from having to report instances of child abuse.

This exemption creates a discrepancy between religious personnel and other individuals who are mandated reporters.
Indicated Reports of Child Abuse or Maltreatment: When Suspects Become Victims
Authors: Owhe Joan
Published: April 2013

Most states have central registries for reporting suspected child abuse to help child protective services, childcare providers, adoption agencies, and professions that have contact with children, know whether an individual has a history of child abuse. If the local agency finds that there is some credible evidence to support the complaint, the report is marked “indicated” and the individual who is the subject of the report is listed on the central register. Although this information can be invaluable in preventing future child abuse, central registries may contain false or unsubstantiated accounts of child abuse, implicating innocent individuals. These falsely accused parents are left to deal with the consequences, such as loss of employment opportunities. To address the problem of indicated reports and the harsh consequences innocent foster parents face as subjects of such reports, this Note proposes that the standard for substantiating reports of child abuse or maltreatment should be raised from the “credible evidence” standard to the “fair preponderance of the evidence” standard.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

Addressing the issue of child abuse and maltreatment is of great importance and the need to create effective measures for dealing with this issue is imperative

This Note discusses how reporting suspected child abuse or maltreatment to the State Central Registry may help resolve this problem, but may also create a new class of victims if the standard for substantiating the report is below the fair preponderance of the evidence standard

This Note focuses on the harsh consequences child care providers, such as foster parents, face when reports made to the State Central Registry are substantiated under the credible evidence standard but prove to be baseless when the evidence is measured using the fair preponderance of the evidence standard
The Child's Attorney and the Alienated Child: Approaches to Resolving the Ethical Dilemma of Diminished Capacity
Authors: Rosen Jamie
Published: April 2013

Increasingly lawyers for children follow a model of “client centered” (as opposed to “best interests”) representation in child custody disputes in which the child client defines the objectives of the representation. The client‐centered model, while appropriate in most cases to give voice to the child's preferences in a process that deeply impacts him or her, can create an ethical dilemma for the child's lawyer in cases where a child is truly alienated from the other parent by the actions of the alienating parent. Alienated children strongly and unreasonably express a preference for objectives of representation that might further damage the alienated parent's relationship with the child. The alienated child's objectives may be the result of a campaign of denigration and “brainwashing” by the alienating parent. This Note suggests that when a child is truly alienated from a parent, as diagnosed by a mental health expert, the child may have “diminished capacity” and therefore, the client‐directed model of representation is not adequate. This Note proposes that the Child's Attorney must determine whether the child is of diminished capacity under the Model Rules of Professional Conduct and, if so, must treat the client accordingly under Rule 1.14. Specifically, the attorney may, if all other remedial measures are inadequate, override the child's wishes and advocate a position that the child would take, but for the brainwashing of the child used to alienate him or her from a parent.
What do we know about the transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 (TRPV2) ion channel?
Authors: Perálvarez‐Marín Alex , Doñate‐Macian Pau , Gaudet Rachelle
Published: April 2013

Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels are emerging as a new set of membrane proteins involved in a vast array of cellular processes and regulated by a large number of physical and chemical stimuli, which involves them with sensory cell physiology. The vanilloid TRP subfamily (TRPV) named after the vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1) consists of six members, and at least four of them (TRPV1–TRPV4) have been related to thermal sensation. One of the least characterized members of the TRP subfamily is TRPV2. Although initially characterized as a noxious heat sensor, TRPV2 now seems to have little to do with temperature sensing but a much more complex physiological profile. Here we review the available information and research progress on the structure, physiology and pharmacology of TRPV2 in an attempt to shed some light on the physiological and pharmacological deorphanization of TRPV2.
SERPINA3K induces apoptosis in human colorectal cancer cells via activating the Fas/FasL/caspase‐8 signaling pathway
Authors: Yao Yachao , Li Lei , Huang Xuan , Gu Xiaoqiong , Xu Zumin , Zhang Yang , Huang Lijun , Li Shuai , Dai Zhiyu , Li Cen , Zhou Ti , Cai Weibin , Yang Zhonghan , Gao Guoquan , Yang Xia
Published: April 2013

SERPINA3K, also known as kallikrein‐binding protein (KBP), is a serine proteinase inhibitor with anti‐inflammatory and anti‐angiogenic activities. Our previous studies showed that SERPINA3K inhibited proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner and induced apoptosis of endothelial cells but had no influence on SGC‐7901 gastric carcinoma cells or HepG2 hepatocarcinoma cells. However, it is unknown whether SERPINA3K has a direct impact on other carcinoma cells and which mechanisms are involved. In this study, we report for the first time that SERPINA3K not only decreased cell viability but also induced apoptosis in the colorectal carcinoma cell lines SW480 and HT‐29. SERPINA3K‐induced apoptosis of SW480 and HT‐29 was rescued by interference with Fas ligand (FasL) small hairpin RNA. Moreover, SERPINA3K increased the expression of FasL and activated caspase‐8. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a transcription factor of FasL, was also upregulated by SERPINA3K in a dose‐dependent manner. The upregulation effect of FasL induced by SERPINA3K was reversed after interference with PPARγ small interfering RNA. These results demonstrated that SERPINA3K‐induced SW480 and HT‐29 cell apoptosis was mediated by the PPARγ/Fas/FasL signaling pathway. Therefore, our study provides additional insight into the direct anti‐tumor function by inducing tumor cell apoptosis of SERPINA3K in colorectal tumors.
Pharmacokinetics of meprobamate in overdose treated with continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF)
Authors: Ceschi Alessandro , Berger David , Dickenmann Michael , Bodmer Michael
Published: April 2013

We report a case of massive suicidal overdose of meprobamate leading to cardiovascular collapse, respiratory failure, and severe central nervous system depression. We observed first‐order elimination kinetics despite significant overdose, and demonstrated effectiveness of continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) for extracorporeal removal of meprobamate in this patient. Total body clearance was calculated to be 87 mL/minute, with 64 mL/minute (74%) due to CVVHDF. CVVHDF was stopped after 36 hours, and the patient made an uneventful recovery.
Expect the unexpected: patients’ and families’ expectations and experiences of new clinical procedures
Authors: Ehrich Kathryn , Cowie Luke , Sandall Jane
Published: April 2013

Background

Early stage clinical innovation often occurs ‘under the radar’ of governance systems for established procedures. Previously impossible or unavailable techniques still being developed involve additional uncertainty and unknown risks and benefits compared with standard procedures. Patient and family expectations, perceptions and experiences of these new procedures and their possible impacts on aspects of patient safety are under‐researched.

Objective

To explore patient and family expectations and experiences of undergoing new clinical procedures.

Setting

A large UK Hospital NHS Foundation Trust with a range of clinically innovative specialties.

Methods

We interviewed 15 patients who received new clinical procedures in a variety of medical and surgical specialties. Qualitative interviews were used to facilitate in‐depth exploration of patient and family views and experiences. Topics included patient and family access to and expectations of the procedure, informed decision making regarding acceptance of new procedures and post‐procedure experiences.

Results

Some patients sought out specific interventions, while others accepted new treatment options that clinicians proposed. Most participants reported that explanations about the procedure and risks were clear, and there were opportunities to ask questions prior to the procedure. Most participants also regarded their procedures as successful. However, post‐procedure information follow‐up was often reported as lacking and some outcomes were considerably problematic and raised patient safety issues.

Discussion

The importance of patients’ and family views in evaluating health care are increasingly recognized. We discuss the implications of our findings for informed decision making and post‐intervention follow‐up.
Do You Have the Heart to Come to Faith? A Look at Anti‐Climacus' Reading of Matthew 11.6
Authors: Torrance Andrew
Published: April 2013

In Practice in Christianity, Søren Kierkegaard's pseudonym, Anti‐Climacus enters into an extended engagement with Matthew 11.6, ‘Blessed is he who takes no offense at me’. In so doing, he comes to an understanding that ‘the possibility of offense’ characterises the ‘crossroad’ at which one either comes to faith in Christ's revelation or rejects it. Such a choice, as he is well aware, cannot be made from a neutral standpoint, and so he is led to propose that it is ‘the thoughts of the heart’ (i.e. a person's disposition) that constitute the pivotal factor in determining whether or not God will reconcile a person into the Christian faith. In this paper, I discuss Anti‐Climacus' interpretation of Mt. 11.6 and consider his reasons for interpreting a person's predisposition as being so decisive for faith.
Educating Jouy
Authors: Tremain Shelley
Published: April 2013

The feminist charge that Michel Foucault's work in general and his history of sexuality in particular are masculinist, sexist, and reflect male biases vexes feminist philosophers of disability who believe his claims about (for instance) the constitution of subjects, genealogy, governmentality, discipline, and regimes of truths imbue their feminist analyses of disability and ableism with complexity and richness, as well as inspire theoretical sophistication and intellectual rigor in the fields of philosophy of disability and disability studies more generally. No aspect of Foucault's corpus has been more consistently subjected to the charges of masculinism and male bias than his example of the nineteenth‐century farmhand Charles Jouy who, at about forty years of age, engaged in sexual activity with a girl, Sophie Adam, was reported to authorities, and subsequently was incarcerated in Maréville for the rest of his days. My central aim in this paper is to interrupt the momentum of the accepted feminist interpretation of the Jouy case by advancing a feminist perspective on Jouy's identity and the incidents involving Jouy and Adam that takes seriously insights derived from philosophy of disability and critical disability theory and history.
High‐Temperature Flexural Strength and Thermal Stability of Near Zero Expanding doped Aluminum Titanate Ceramics for Diesel Particulate Filters Applications
Authors: Papitha Ramanathan , Buchi Suresh Madireddy , Dibakar Das , Johnson Roy
Published: April 2013

A substantial increase in sinterability, high‐temperature flexural strength, thermal stability in combination with an average thermal expansion of 0.42 × 10−6/°C (30–1000°C) is achieved through magnesium silicate (Mg3Si4O10(OH)2) doping of Aluminum Titanate (Al2TiO5) ceramics. Doped specimens exhibited the sintered density of 99% of theoretical density at 1550°C and a maximum enhancement of 169.23% (70 MPa) in flexural strength at 1200°C as compared with 26 MPa measured at 30°C. Enhancement of flexural strength at elevated temperature can be attributed to the increasing extent of thermally activated crack blunting with increasing temperature, which is further evident from the dilatometric hysteresis curve recorded for these samples. XRD investigations of undoped (Al2TiO5, AT) samples annealed at 1100°C for 5 and 10 h have shown clear evidence of decomposition to precursor oxides by 7% and 21.13%, respectively. However, the samples of magnesium silicate–doped Al2TiO5 (TAT) under identical conditions have shown no sign of decomposition, indicating significantly high thermal stability. TAT formulations were also extrusion processed to investigate the suitability of forming cellular honeycomb structures. TAT formulation with superior thermo‐mechanical properties and excellent adaptability for extrusion processing can be explored for the development of next generation diesel particulate filters (DPF).
A farm‐to‐fork model to evaluate the level of polyacetylenes in processed carrots
Authors: Tiwari Uma , Rawson Ashish , Valverde Juan , Reilly Kim , Brunton Nigel , Cummins Enda
Published: April 2013

Naturally occurring aliphatic C17 polyacetylene compounds [falcarinol (FaOH), falcarindiol (FaDOH) and falcarindiol‐3‐acetate (FaDOAc)] in carrots are known for their bioactivity and health benefits. This study assesses the impact of pre‐ and postharvest processes (including food processing stages) on the level of polyacetylenes and evaluates subsequent human exposure using Monte Carlo simulation techniques. The model includes data inputs from both experimental and published literature sources. The sensitivity analysis highlights the importance of cultivar selection and agronomic factors. The sensitivity analysis also showed that peeling, blanching and boiling time of carrots have a significant negative influence on the level of polyacetylenes with correlation coefficients of −0.15, −0.14 and −0.19 for FaOH, −0.47, −0.23 and −0.20 for FaDOH and −0.29, −0.26 and −0.25 for FaDOAc, respectively. The scenario analysis shows the practical application of the proposed model for industrial processing of carrots. This model could facilitate food processors in optimising critical processing factors such as peeling and cutting prior to processing of carrots.