bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Judicial Interpretation or Judicial Activism? The Legacy of Rationalism in the Studies of the European Court of Justice
Authors: Grimmel Andreas
Published: July 2012

During the last two decades, law as a factor in European integration has attracted great scientific interest. Numerous studies and theoretical analyses have been published that have undertaken the task of examining and explaining the role of law in the progress of integration. The European Court of Justice (ECJ) in particular, as Europe's judiciary body, draws much attention in this context. However, the inflexible, mechanistic and universalistic notion of rationality that these works employ leads to serious misinterpretations and unjustified criticism regarding the role the ECJ takes in the course of integration. Within the frameworks of contemporary approaches, the Court is perceived as just one more political player among other actors and institutions, able to shape the EU in the pursuit of its own rational interests. By outlining the theoretical concept of context rationality, this article shows that the logics of law and judicial lawmaking are based on a non‐trivial and non‐political rationality and cannot be understood appropriately without paying attention to the context of European law.
The Impact of Training and Language Competence on Judicial Application of EU Law in Hungary
Authors: Tatham Allan F.
Published: July 2012

The aim of this research is to identify the role that training in EU law and in a foreign language play in the use of EU law by Hungarian judges in domestic proceedings. Judges in the new Member States face the problems of no or inadequate official EU translations of relevant EU law or case‐law. The need to compare the meaning of other language versions therefore comes into play in order that the judges comply with the requirements of Union loyalty in the Treaty on European Union: Hungarian judges are shown to exhibit certain creative responses to these challenges. The approach to the research is based on an examination of the institutional framework for judicial training, a selection of pertinent case‐law of the Hungarian courts as well as interviews with a number of judges involved in the application of EU law in their courts.
Why Is Fast Track the Way to Go? Justifications for Early Agreement in the Co‐Decision Procedure and Their Effects
Authors: de Ruiter Rik , Neuhold Christine
Published: July 2012

Since the introduction of the co‐decision procedure by way of the Maastricht Treaty, the procedure has been transformed considerably. One of the most striking innovations is the possibility to adopt a legislative act in first reading. This article aims to answer the questions whether the increasing use of this fast track procedure is in line with Treaty provisions and/or intra/inter‐institutional rules, and what the effects are of these stipulations. The empirical findings presented in this study indicate that two reasons for taking the fast track gain dominance in the practical political process, ie the political priorities of the Council and European Parliament (EP) and whether these actors consider a legislative file as urgent. From a study of two directives, it becomes clear that this dominance of factors has consequences for the type of early agreement reached (first or early second), the quality of the adopted legislation and its implementation at the national level.
Knowledge representation of the software architecture design process based on situation calculus
Authors: Roldán María Luciana , Gonnet Silvio , Leone Horacio
Published: July 2012

Software architecture design is an interactive, complex, decision‐making process. Such a design process involves the exploration, evaluation, and composition of design alternatives. Increasingly, new computer‐aided tools are available to help designers in these complex activities. However, these tools do not know how design is actually done, in other words, by means of which design activities the final artefact was obtained. In fact, the architectural design knowledge exclusively rests in the mind of designers, and there is an urgent need to move it, as much as possible, to a computer‐supported environment that enables the capture of this type of knowledge. This contribution addresses this need by introducing a model for capturing how products under development are generated and transformed along the software architecture design process. The proposed model follows an operational perspective, where architectural design decisions are modelled by means of sequences of operations that are applied on the design products. Situation calculus is used to formally express the existence of an object in a given state of a design process. In addition, this formalism allows us expressing without ambiguities when an operation can be performed in a specific state of the design process.
White matter microstructure on diffusion tensor imaging is associated with conventional magnetic resonance imaging findings and cognitive function in adolescents born preterm
Authors: FELDMAN HEIDI M , LEE ELIANA S , LOE IRENE M , YEOM KRISTEN W , GRILL‐SPECTOR KALANIT , LUNA BEATRIZ
Published: July 2012

Aim  Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was used to evaluate white matter architecture after preterm birth. The goals were (1) to compare white matter microstructure in two cohorts of preterm‐ and term‐born children; and (2) within preterm groups, to determine if sex, gestational age, birthweight, white matter injury score from conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or IQ was associated with DTI measures.

Method  Participants (n=121; 66 females, 55 males) were aged 9 to 16 years. They comprised 58 preterm children (site 1, n=25; and site 2, n=33) born at less than 36 weeks’ gestation (mean 29.4wks; birthweight 1289g) and 63 term children (site 1, n=40; site 2, n=23) born at more than 37 weeks’ gestation. DTI was analyzed using tract‐based spatial statistics. Diffusion measures were fractional anisotropy, axial, radial, and mean diffusivity.

Results  In no region of the white matter skeleton was fractional anisotropy lower in the preterm group at either site. Within the preterm groups, fractional anisotropy was significantly associated with white matter injury score, but not sex, gestational age, or birthweight. At site 1, fractional anisotropy was associated with IQ.

Interpretation  DTI contributes to understanding individual differences after preterm birth but may not differentiate a relatively high‐functioning group of preterm children from a matched group of term‐born children.
Depression among adolescents: a study in a Bangkok slum community
Authors: Somrongthong Ratana , Wongchalee Sunanta , Laosee Orapin
Published: July 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2013; 27; 327–334

Depression among adolescents: a study in a Bangkok slum community

Background:  Adolescents represent approximately one‐fifth of the total population of Thailand. Few comprehensive surveys of adolescents living in Bangkok slums are available in the literature. To appropriately consider adolescents’ development in urban planning strategies calls for the study of the relationship between depression and quality of life (QoL) of adolescents in slums. This study aimed to assess the level of depression and to describe the relationship between depression and QoL for the adolescents in a slum community of Bangkok.

Methods:  This is a descriptive study. Data from eight hundred and seventy‐one adolescents in a Bangkok slum community were randomly collected by a survey that utilized a socio‐demographic questionnaire, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES‐D) scale for depression level, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief (WHOQoL‐BREF) assessment, Thai version, for quality of life.

Results:  Thirty‐four point nine percent of all respondents exhibited depressive symptoms: 27.6% of males and 40.4% of females. Twenty‐six percent of adolescents indicated that they had a ‘poor’ quality of life. A Chi‐squared test yielded a statistically significant difference in the level of depression according to the level of QoL when both genders were considered together (p < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis shown the association between depression and three factors: quality of life (p < 0.001), position in the family (p = 0.04) and the adolescent’s place of origin (p = 0.02).

Conclusions:  These findings suggest channels to help adolescents with depression in Bangkok slum communities. Specifically, based on the findings, interventions for adolescent depression may be more effective if gender, age group and family participation in the adolescent’s development are considered in the planning and implementation of health intervention programs.
Fatigue Damage of the Gesso Layer in Panel Paintings Subjected to Changing Climate Conditions
Authors: Rachwał B. , Bratasz Ł. , Krzemień L. , Łukomski M. , Kozłowski R.
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  Numerical modelling was used to follow the moisture movement and strain in a composite system – an unrestrained, single wood panel coated with a layer of gesso, in response to cyclic sinusoidal variations in relative humidity (RH). The allowable magnitude of the variations, below which physical damage of the gesso layer on the wood does not occur over a selected time of exposure, was derived as a function of cycle duration, panel thickness and moisture diffusion configuration. The dimensional response of wood substrate becomes subject to restraint by the applied layer of gesso. The panels do not respond significantly to diurnal fluctuations or shorter irrespectively of the panel thickness. The panels respond more and more significantly when the duration of the fluctuations increases until a certain critical period at which the panel fully responds to each cycle. The analysis of the data obtained indicates that moderate RH variations within the approximate range 50 ± 15% are safe. This safe range was derived using the extremes of conservative criteria of the gesso’s fatigue fracture and assumption of worst‐case wooden substrate response. The reduction of allowable amplitude of RH cycles because of decrease in the gesso’s modulus of elasticity and thickness is discussed.
Photogrammetric Terminology: Second Edition
Authors: Newby Paul R. T.
Published: July 2012

This contribution offers a considerably expanded and updated edition of the original “Terminology Guide” which was published in The Photogrammetric Record in 2007 and was subsequently adopted as an official document of the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing. Revision and correction began as soon as the previous version was finalised for publication, and has continued ever since, in the light of further experience of the developing technology and of authors’ contributions, and with the help and support of the editorial team, authors and readers worldwide. Once again, the aim is to help authors and editors in preparing contributions for publication in the Record; and it is hoped that the new listing will again secure wide acceptance and thus both engender and facilitate consistency and correctness in the global geomatics literature. A short discussion of the background and the process of compilation is followed by the listing itself, in the form of a lengthy Appendix to the text.
Management of occiput posterior position in the second stage of labour: A survey of obstetric practice in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Phipps Hala , de Vries Bradley , Lee Ping N. , Hyett Jon A.
Published: July 2012

Background

Issues in the management of the occipito posterior (OP) position have been the subject of clinical controversy over decades. Manual rotation has the potential to reduce operative delivery for fetal malposition.

Aim

To determine the current obstetric practice with regard to manual rotation in the management of the second stage of labour.

Methods

Survey mailed to all members and fellows of the Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Results

Of 1805 surveyed, 60% responded, of whom 68% were currently practising obstetrics. Ninety‐seven per cent of respondents thought that manual rotation at full dilatation was a valid intervention, 85% stated that manual rotation was acceptable prior to instrumental delivery, and 70% thought that manual rotation was acceptable without assisted delivery. Only 41% of practising obstetricians had performed a manual rotation in the last year, and only 9% had performed more than five. Obstetricians would routinely perform manual rotation for OP position if it reduced operative delivery from 68% to a median of 50%.

Conclusion

Manual rotation is currently performed by only a minority of obstetricians in Australia and New Zealand, yet is considered to be an acceptable procedure by the vast majority. The survey confirmed that obstetricians would be willing to perform prophylactic manual rotation if this was known to reduce the operative delivery rate, suggesting that there is a scope to introduce this procedure into widespread clinical practice.
Antibiotic prophylaxis in obstetric and gynaecological procedures: A review
Authors: Clifford Vanessa , Daley Andrew
Published: July 2012

Surgical site infections are a common complication of obstetric and gynaecological surgeries; up to 10% of gynaecological patients undergoing an operative procedure will develop a surgical site infection. In surgeries with high rates of post‐operative infection, antibiotic prophylaxis (using an antibiotic with an appropriate microbiological spectrum and administered in a timely manner) can play a major role in improving outcomes. This review examines the medical literature to assess the indications and appropriate antibiotic choices for prophylaxis to prevent surgical site infection in obstetric and gynaecological surgery. For some procedures, such as caesarean section, surgical termination of pregnancy and hysterectomy, antibiotic prophylaxis is clearly indicated. For other procedures, such as insertion of an intrauterine device, medical termination of pregnancy and laparoscopy, antibiotic prophylaxis is usually not required. For several other procedures where the evidence for antibiotic prophylaxis is unclear or inadequate, we discuss the current evidence for and against prophylaxis. Guidelines for infective endocarditic prophylaxis with surgery are also discussed.
Waiting for an elevated FSH – Too late a marker of reduced ovarian reserve?
Authors: Kahapola Arachchige Kalani Mudhitha , Wardrop Robert , Lim Ee Mun , Stuckey Bronwyn , Hadlow Narelle
Published: July 2012

Aim

To assess age at which median follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) is elevated above 10 U/L.

Background

Fertility and ovarian reserve decrease over the 4th decade with evidence that sensitive markers such as anti‐Mullerian hormone fall even earlier. Despite its limitations, a basal or day 2–3 FSH is commonly used to assess ovarian reserve with levels over 10 U/L often used as a cut‐point for further investigations.

Methods

Women referred to a community laboratory for ‘hormone testing’, including FSH and oestradiol (n = 40 254), were included in a retrospective analysis. Cases excluded were those with suppressed FSH (<1 U/L) who were likely on the oral contraceptive pill or pregnant and those with increased oestradiol (>500 pmol/L) who were likely approaching mid‐cycle or pregnant. Remaining cases (n = 32 445) were analysed in five‐year age bands for FSH median, mean, and 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles.

Results

Median FSH remained consistently low (≤5 U/L) in women ≤35 years of age and was 6 U/L in 35‐ to 40‐year‐olds. The mean FSH and 97.5 percentile increased steadily. The 97.5th percentile was 10 U/L or lower in women up to 30 years of age.

Conclusions

Follicle‐stimulating hormone is a late indicator of known reducing ovarian reserve, and in this study, median FSH did not increase over 10 U/L until >45 years of age. FSH levels >9 U/L were above the 97.5th percentile in those <25 years of age. If fertility is a concern, FSH levels persistently above age‐specific medians in women under 40 years may prompt earlier follow‐up with more sensitive tests for ovarian reserve.
Hematologic, immunologic reconstitution, and outcome of 342 autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantations after cryopreservation in a −80°C mechanical freezer and preserved less than 6 months
Authors: Calvet Laure , Cabrespine Aurélie , Boiret‐Dupré Nathalie , Merlin Etienne , Paillard Catherine , Berger Marc , Bay Jacques‐Olivier , Tournilhac Olivier , Halle Pascale
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: Controlled‐rate freezing and storage in nitrogen is the standard technique for cryopreservation of peripheral hematopoietic progenitor cells (PHPCs) but presents high cost and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) toxicity. Cryopreservation at −80°C, by uncontrolled rate freezing with only 3.5% DMSO, preserves the functional capacities of PHPCs, produces successful engraftment, and reduces toxicity during infusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Long‐term hematopoietic and immunologic reconstitution for 342 autografts (311 adults, 31 children) after PHPCs were cryopreserved at −80°C was studied at 3, 6, and 12 months. The median (range) storage time of PHPCs cryopreserved was 1.7 (0.1‐5.99) months.

RESULTS: Hemoglobin (Hb), white blood cells, and platelets (PLTs) reach normal values to trilineage at 12 months for 39% patients. Multivariate analysis shows a significant impact on CD34+ infused and on conditioning regimen for PLTs. Hb was influenced by growth factor administration at 3 months. Long‐term recovery is also highly dependent on blood counts (Hb, PLT, and neutrophil) at start of high‐dose chemotherapy. Only 43% of patients had reached normal lymphocyte values at 12 months after transplant, and a profound CD4+ T‐lymphocyte deficit remained, as others reported.

CONCLUSION: Transplantation with PHPCs cryopreserved at −80°C for no more than 6 months is satisfactory for long‐term hematopoietic and immunologic reconstitution, even if a profound CD4+ T lymphocyte deficit persists at 1 year. This easier and cheaper cryopreservation method also leads to successful engraftment.
Comparative in vitro evaluation of apheresis platelets stored with 100% plasma versus bicarbonated Ringer's solution with less than 5% plasma
Authors: Oikawa Shinji , Sasaki Dai , Kikuchi Masaki , Sawamura Yoshihiro , Itoh Takashi
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: The major strategy for reducing the frequency of adverse reactions to platelet (PLT) transfusions is PLT washing with PLT additive solutions (PASs). In Japan, a mixture of medical infusion solutions such as acetate Ringer's solution, sodium bicarbonate, magnesium sulfate, and ACD‐A is currently used as a PAS because none of the common types of PASs are officially permitted for clinical use. Recently, a bicarbonated Ringer's solution (BRS) was developed using bicarbonate as an alkaline agent. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a BRS can effectively be utilized as a PAS for clinical use.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The washing and storage solution was prepared by adding 25 mL ACD‐A to 500 mL of BRS (BRS‐A), consisting of 95.2 mmol/L NaCl, 3.8 mmol/L KCl, 0.9 mmol/L MgCl2,1.4 mmol/L CaCl2, 26.6 mmol/L NaHCO3, 5.8 mmol/L glucose, 4.2 mmol/L trisodium citrate, and 1.8 mmol/L citric acid. The in vitro properties of apheresis PLTs suspended in BRS‐A with low concentration of plasma (<5%) were compared with those suspended in 100% plasma during 7‐day storage.

RESULTS: The in vitro properties of pH, hypotonic shock response, glucose consumption rate, lactate production rate, swirling, CD62P, and CD42b expression in PLTs suspended in BRS‐A were comparable or superior to those suspended in 100% plasma during 7‐day storage.

CONCLUSION: BRS‐A, prepared by mixing the only two solutions permitted for clinical use in Japan, has a positive capability to maintain PLT function. These results indicate that PLT washing and storage with BRS‐A is feasible.
Stored platelets alter glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid species, which are differentially transferred to newly released extracellular vesicles
Authors: Pienimaeki‐Roemer Annika , Ruebsaamen Katharina , Boettcher Alfred , Orsó Evelyn , Scherer Max , Liebisch Gerhard , Kilalic Dzenan , Ahrens Norbert , Schmitz Gerd
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: Stored platelet concentrates (PLCs) for transfusion develop a platelet storage lesion (PSL), resulting in decreased platelet (PLT) viability and function. The processes leading to PSL have not been described in detail and no data describe molecular changes occurring in all three components of stored PLCs: PLTs, PLC extracellular vesicles (PLC‐EVs), and plasma.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Fifty PLCs from healthy individuals were stored under standard blood banking conditions for 5 days. Changes in cholesterol, glycerophospholipid, and sphingolipid species were analyzed in PLTs, PLC‐EVs, and plasma by mass spectrometry and metabolic labeling. Immunoblots were performed to compare PLT and PLC‐EV protein expression.

RESULTS: During 5 days, PLTs transferred glycerophospholipids, cholesterol, and sphingolipids to newly formed PLC‐EVs, which increased corresponding lipids by 30%. Stored PLTs significantly increased ceramide (Cer; +53%) and decreased sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (−53%), shifting sphingolipid metabolism toward Cer. In contrast, plasma accumulated minor sphingolipids. Compared to PLTs, fresh PLC‐EVs were enriched in lysophosphatidic acid (60‐fold) and during storage showed significant increases in cholesterol, sphingomyelin, dihydrosphingomyelin, plasmalogen, and lysophosphatidylcholine species, as well as accumulation of apolipoproteins A‐I, E, and J/clusterin.

CONCLUSION: This is the first detailed analysis of lipid species in all PLC components during PLC storage, which might reflect mechanisms active during in vivo PLT senescence. Stored PLTs reduce minor sphingolipids and shift sphingolipid metabolism toward Cer, whereas in the plasma fraction minor sphingolipids increase. The composition of PLC‐EVs resembles that of lipid rafts and confirms their role as carriers of bioactive molecules and master regulators in vascular disease.
Protein composition of clots detected in pooled cryoprecipitate units
Authors: MacPhee Martin , Wilmer Belinda , Beall Dawson , Moroff Gary
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: On rare occasions, upon thawing of stored cryoprecipitate components, clots are observed on visual inspection. Although it has been assumed that the clot reflects fibrinogen to fibrin conversion, there are few published studies that document that this assumption is correct. Our studies were conducted to further identify the protein characteristics of the clotted material.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Clotted material isolated from four thawed cryoprecipitate pools was examined by solubilization procedures and electrophoresis analysis.

RESULTS: Solubilization of much of the clotted material in phosphate‐buffered saline warmed to 37°C suggested the presence of soluble fibrin. Gel electrophoresis under reducing conditions showed that the most prevalent bands exhibited molecular weights corresponding to the α, β, and γ subunits of fibrinogen with a much lighter band exhibiting the molecular weight of fibrinogen γ‐γ dimer, consistent with the presence of partially crosslinked fibrin. The presence of the dimer indicated that the clotted material was caused by the action of thrombin, but also reflected the action of Factor XIIIa. No ongoing clot formation was observed.

CONCLUSION: Our studies indicate that, on rare occasions, fibrinogen conversion to fibrin is responsible for observable clots in thawed cryoprecipitate pools. These clots are structurally heterogeneous, including both noncrosslinked (soluble) and crosslinked (insoluble) fibrin. This diversity in the fibrin structure may account for some of the diversity in the limited literature regarding their presence in cryoprecipitate pools.
How would I establish a perioperative blood salvage program?
Authors: Berg Mary , Justison George
Published: July 2012

Nearly one‐quarter of the nation's blood supply is transfused to surgical patients. In many institutions, blood management programs that include autotransfusion (perioperative blood salvage) have been developed to decrease the need for allogeneic transfusion in eligible surgical patients. This article reviews management concepts related to an autotransfusion service.
The immunohematologic and patient safety benefits of a centralized transfusion database
Authors: Delaney Meghan , Dinwiddie Steve , Nester Theresa N. , AuBuchon James A.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: The transfusion medical record is an important tool for providing safe and appropriate blood. However, many patients seek care at more than one hospital and this record is usually not portable. We posited that a centralized transfusion service database (CTS‐D) offers benefits through tracking blood types, transfusion requirements, and detecting wrong blood in tube (WBIT).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Records held in the CTS‐D from 1997 to 2010 were queried to enumerate those seen at more than one hospital versus one hospital only. Transfusion‐related attributes were collected including red blood cell (RBC) antibodies, transfusion requirements, and reactions. WBITs detected due to historical ABO typing were tallied. A review of blood orders that required alteration based on requirements held in the CTS‐D was completed.

RESULTS: There were 724,584 records; 10.9% of patients had been tested or received blood transfusion at more than one hospital. Of the 63,973 records with RBC alloantibodies, a greater proportion of patients were seen at more than one hospital versus one hospital only (7.11% vs. 3.97%, p < 0.005). Of the 97,687 patient records that required special processing, patients seen at one hospital had a lower rate than those at more than one hospital (12.13% vs. 24.59%, p < 0.005). There were 77 WBITs (0.18 WBITs per 1000 patients). An in‐depth review of WBITs found an additional 26.3% (5 of 19) were detected because the current and historical ABO types were from two different hospitals within the CTS.

CONCLUSIONS: The CTS‐D provides a universal transfusion record that improves patient safety. As health care systems are enlarged, centralization of the transfusion component of the medical record should be considered.
Processing and Elastic Property Characterization of Porous SiC Preform for Interpenetrating Metal/Ceramic Composites
Authors: Roy Siddhartha , Schell Karl Günter , Bucharsky Ethel Claudia , Hettich Pascal , Dietrich Stefan , Weidenmann Kay André , Wanner Alexander , Hoffmann Michael J.
Published: July 2012

Silicon carbide reinforced aluminum alloy matrix composites offer excellent thermo‐mechanical properties and are thus attractive for applications limited by thermal stresses. Open porous silicon carbide preforms are fabricated in this work using polymer wax as pore formers. Two different waxes with different particle size were used to fabricate preforms with different pore structures. Wax content was varied to introduce open porosities up to 64 vol%. Structural characterization was carried out using scanning electron microscopy and micro computed tomography, whereas ultrasound phase spectroscopy was used to determine three longitudinal and three shear elastic constants. The amount of porosity increases with the amount of total wax used. Uniaxial pressing prior to isostatic pressing flattens the pores and as a result the preforms behave transverse isotropically with respect to the press direction. For the same total wax content, while the mixture ratio of two waxes has a minor influence on total porosity, the mixture ratio strongly influences the elastic constants. Optimum elastic constants along all directions are obtained with a mixture of two wax types with a higher content of the larger wax particles.
Alkaline Hydration of Tricalcium Aluminate
Authors: Sánchez‐Herrero Maria Jose , Fernández‐Jiménez Ana , Palomo Angel
Published: July 2012

This study explored the behavior of laboratory‐synthesized tricalcium aluminate (C3A) in alkaline media. In all the trials, the C3A was hydrated with water containing a certain percentage of alkali activators (4% Na2CO3, 4% Na2SO4, or 8% Na2SO4 by weight of C3A). Two‐ and 28‐day mechanical strength values were determined and the products were characterized with XRD, DTA, and NMR. The compressive strength of the C3A pastes rose in the presence of the alkaline activators used in this study. The alkalis induced the formation of calcium monocarboaluminate (C4AČH11) as the main hydration product in all cases. In addition, when Na2SO4 was added, a sodium calcium sulfoaluminate, phase U (C4AŠNH16), formed. The presence of this mineral, whose formation is associated with high pH values, furnished indirect information on the alkalinity in the medium.
Synthetic Coal Slag Infiltration into Varying Refractory Materials
Authors: Kaneko Tetsuya K. , Thomas Hugh , Bennett James P. , Sridhar Seetharaman
Published: July 2012

The infiltrations of synthetic coal slag into 99%Al2O3, 85%Al2O3–15%SiO2, and 90%Cr2O3–10%Al2O3 refractories with a temperature gradient induced along the penetration direction were compared to one another. The infiltrating slag was synthesized with a composition that is representative of an average of the ash contents from U S coal feedstock. Experiments were conducted with a hot‐face temperature of 1450°C in a CO/CO2 atmosphere. Minimal penetration was observed in the 90%Cr2O3–10%Al2O3 material because interactions between the refractory and the slag produced a protective layer of FeCr2O4, which impeded slag flow into the bulk of the refractory. After 5 h, the 99%Al2O3 sample exhibited an average penetration of 12.7 mm whereas the 85%Al2O3–15%SiO2 sample showed 3.8 mm. Slag infiltrated into the 99%Al2O3 and 85%Al2O3–15%SiO2 refractory systems by dissolving the respective refractories' matrix materials, which consist of fine Al2O3 particles and an amorphous alumino‐silicate phase. Due to enrichment in SiO2, a network‐former, infiltration into the 85%Al2O3–15%SiO2 system yielded a higher viscosity slag and hence, a shallower penetration depth. The results suggest that slag infiltration can be limited by interactions with the refractory through the formation of either a solid layer that physically impedes fluid flow or a more viscous slag that retards infiltration.
Large Strain Response in <001> Textured 0.79BNT–0.20BKT–0.01NKN Lead‐Free Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Ye Chenggen , Hao Jigong , Shen Bo , Zhai Jiwei
Published: July 2012

Templated grain growth (TGG) method was applied to fabricate textured lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics 0.79Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3–0.20Bi0.5K0.5TiO3–0.01Na0.5K0.5NbO3 (0.79BNT–0.20BKT–0.01NKN) using plate‐like Bi4Ti3O12 (BiT) grains, to improve its performances. Relationships between degree of orientation, microstructure, and piezoelectric properties of the textured ceramics were studied. Results showed that dense, c‐axis (00l) textured 0.79BNT–0.20BKT–0.01NKN ceramics, with brick wall cross‐sectional microstructures and strip‐like grains aligned parallel to the tape casting direction, were obtained using this method. The highest degree of orientation (Lotgering factor f = 94%) was achieved in samples with template content of 20 wt%. However, these samples did not exhibit enhanced strain response due to the composition deviation induced by the interdiffusion of BiT into the matrix composition. Instead, maximum strain value of 0.45% was observed in the textured sample with 5 wt% template, which was 50% higher than that of random ceramics and comparable with some PZT‐based anti‐ferroelectric ceramics, suggesting the textured ceramics could be a very promising lead‐free piezoelectric material for application in electromechanical devices.
Analyzing Forensic Evidence Based on Density with Magnetic Levitation
Authors: Lockett Matthew R. , Mirica Katherine A. , Mace Charles R. , Blackledge Robert D. , Whitesides George M.
Published: July 2012

This paper describes a method for determining the density of contact trace objects with magnetic levitation (MagLev). MagLev measurements accurately determine the density (±0.0002 g/cm3) of a diamagnetic object and are compatible with objects that are nonuniform in shape and size. The MagLev device (composed of two permanent magnets with like poles facing) and the method described provide a means of accurately determining the density of trace objects. This method is inexpensive, rapid, and verifiable and provides numerical values—independent of the specific apparatus or analyst—that correspond to the absolute density of the sample that may be entered into a searchable database. We discuss the feasibility of MagLev as a possible means of characterizing forensic‐related evidence and demonstrate the ability of MagLev to (i) determine the density of samples of glitter and gunpowder, (ii) separate glitter particles of different densities, and (iii) determine the density of a glitter sample that was removed from a complex sample matrix.
Identification of a Tooth‐Like Foreign Body in Swine Sausage
Authors: Dias Paulo Eduardo Miamoto , Beaini Thiago Leite , Melani Rodolfo Francisco Haltenhoff
Published: July 2012

A tooth‐like foreign body (FB) was found inside a sausage bread. Analysis aimed to investigate whether the FB was a tooth and its origin. The FB was measured, weighed, photographed, and radiographed. Macroscopic findings were suggestive of an anterior tooth. Histological slides of undecalcified cross‐sections of the FB and samples of human and swine teeth were prepared. Histological features of the FB (in light microscopy, 125× magnification) were discrepant from human tissues. Compared histological analysis displayed majority of features consistent with a hypsodont swine tooth, probably a canine. Cellularized cementum in crown region, adjacent to the enamel, and shape of the cementocytes were the main criteria excluding the possibility of human origin of the FB. Scanning electronic microscopy and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy were not performed because of fewer features to be analyzed and FB size. It was concluded that the FB may have been incorporated during meat grinding of the sausage.
Chromosomal translocation‐negative cellular extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma in an adolescent female
Authors: Boyd Alan S.
Published: July 2012

Extraskeletal myxoid chondrosarcoma (EMC) is a relatively uncommon soft tissue sarcoma that typically presents in adults of middle age and affects the proximal thigh and limb girdles. Initially believed to be a low‐grade malignancy, long‐term patient follow‐up has shown a high incidence of local recurrence and metastatic spread. EMC is uniformly resistant to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These tumors characteristically display fibrous septae with large aggregates of mucin populated by clusters and strands of oval cells exhibiting minimal mitotic activity. A more aggressive cellular subtype has also been defined and exhibits basaloid cells showing the immunohistochemical staining features of neuroendocrine differentiation calling into question their proposed cartilaginous lineage. Most, although not all, examples of EMC possess a unique balanced chromosomal translocation [t(9;22)(q22;q12)] between the EWSR1 and NR4A3 (previously termed TEC) genes. Pediatric and adolescent cases of EMC are rare, as only 15 have been reported and appear to follow a more aggressive clinical course. Reported herein is a case of an EMC arising in the thigh of a 15‐year‐old female and the first to undergo evaluation of chromosomal translocation.
Factors affecting dam passage and upstream distribution of adult Pacific lamprey in the interior Columbia River basin
Authors: Keefer Matthew L. , Boggs Charles T. , Peery Christopher A. , Caudill Christopher C.
Published: July 2012

Low dam passage rates of adult Pacific lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) during upstream spawning migration have been implicated in the species' steep decline in the interior Columbia River basin. In this 2000–2010 study, we used radiotelemetry to evaluate potential predictors of lamprey passage success at McNary Dam, located ~469 river kilometres (rkm) from the Pacific Ocean. The tagged population included 276 lampreys collected at McNary Dam and 53 collected at Bonneville Dam (rkm 235) that migrated to McNary Dam. McNary Dam passage efficiency was similar for the two samples, with multiyear estimates of 0.65 and 0.75, respectively. Larger‐bodied lampreys and those with earlier migration timing were more likely to return to McNary Dam after release, to pass the dam and to be detected upstream from McNary reservoir. Far more lampreys entered the upper Columbia River than the Snake River, suggesting that environmental cues (e.g., water discharge, temperature) or conspecific cues (e.g., pheromone concentrations) affect lamprey distribution above this large confluence. Overall, results indicate that Pacific lamprey passage success at barriers depends on a combination of individual lamprey traits plus seasonal and site‐specific effects on behaviour.
Periodontal healing complications following concussion and subluxation injuries in the permanent dentition: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Hermann Nuno Vibe , Lauridsen Eva , Ahrensburg Søren Steno , Gerds Thomas Alexander , Andreasen Jens Ove
Published: July 2012

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to analyze the risk of periodontal ligament (PDL) healing complications following concussion and subluxation injuries in the permanent dentition.

Material and method

A total 469 permanent teeth (358 patients) with concussion and 404 permanent teeth with subluxation were included in the study. All teeth were examined according to a standardized protocol including clinical, photographic, and radiographic registration. Statistics: The risk of repair‐related resorption (surface resorption), infection‐related resorption (inflammatory resorption), replacement‐related resorption (ankylosis), marginal bone loss, and tooth loss were analyzed with the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Concussion: In teeth with immature root development, no healing complications were observed. For teeth with mature root development, the risk of repair related resorption after 3 years was 3.2% (95% CI: 0.3–6.0%) and occurred only in cases where several teeth were injured simultaneously (multiple‐trauma cases). The risk of marginal bone loss in teeth with mature root development was 0.7% (95% CI: 0–1.6%). Infection‐related resorption, replacement resorption, and tooth loss were not observed among teeth with concussion. Subluxation: In teeth with immature root development, the risk of infection‐related resorption after 3 years was 1.7% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0–3.8%]. Infection‐related resorption occurred significantly more often in teeth with concomitant crown fracture (P = 0.004). For teeth with mature root development, the risk of periodontal healing complications after 3 years was: repair‐related resorption, 3.6% (95% CI: 0–7.6%); infection‐related resorption, 0.6% (95% CI: 0–1.7%); replacement‐related resorption, 0.6% (95% CI: 0–1.7%); and marginal bone loss, 0.6% (95% CI: 0–1.7%). No teeth were lost in the observation period.

Conclusion

The risk of periodontal healing complications after concussion as well as subluxation injuries in permanent teeth is very low.
Epigenetic alterations related to early-life stressful events
Authors: Ventura-Junca Raúl , Herrera Luisa M.
Published: July 2012

Objective: Early stress events severely impact brain and behaviour. From a neurobiological point of view early stress influences neuroanatomical structures and is associated with a dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The objective of this article is to review the epigenetic alterations implicated in brain adaptation to early stress events.

Method: A review of empirical research of epigenetic alterations associated to early stress events was performed.

Results: Neuroanatomic and epigenetic alterations have been observed after early stress events. Epigenetics alterations include DNA methylation, histones modifications and microRNA (miRNA) expression. The most studied is largely the former, affecting genes involved in neuroendocrine, neurotransmission and neuroplasticity regulation after early stress exposition. It includes glucocorticoid receptor, FK506-binding protein 5, arginine vasopressin, oestrogen receptor alpha, 5-hydroxy-tryptamine transporter and brain-derived neurotrophic factor.

Conclusion: Epigenetic regulation is critical in the interplay between nature and nurture. Alterations in the DNA methylation as well as histones modifications and miRNA expression patterns could explain abnormal behaviours secondary to early stress events.
In vitro ruminal dry matter digestibility and methane production of fermented total mixed ration containing whole‐crop rice and rice bran
Authors: Cao Yang , Takahashi Toshiyoshi , Horiguchi Ken‐ichi , Yoshida Norio , Zhou Daowei
Published: July 2012

Three in vitro incubation experiments were conducted to determine the effect of fermented total mixed ration (FTMR) and fresh TMR containing whole‐crop rice and rice bran on dry matter (DM) digestibility and methane production in the rumen. In incubation 1, FTMR and fresh TMR were each incubated with neutral culture medium for 2, 4 or 6 h. The FTMR had higher (P < 0.05) DM digestibility but lower (P < 0.05) methane production than fresh TMR. In incubation 2, the two TMR with or without lactic acid (5%, DM basis) were incubated with neutral culture medium for 6 h. Regardless the addition of lactic acid, the FTMR showed higher DM digestibility (P < 0.05) and lower methane production (P < 0.05) than fresh TMR. In incubation 3, the two TMR were each incubated for 6 h in three types of culture medium with pH 7.08, 5.86 or 6.56, respectively. Regardless of the TMR, DM digestibility and methane production decreased with pH declining, when the final pH was 5.62–5.66, the DM digestibility and methane production reached the lowest level, and the propionic acid reached the highest level. These results suggest that FTMR had higher DM digestibility and lower methane production than fresh TMR, and that final pH seemed to contribute to the conversion of lactate to propionate and inhibit methane production in the rumen.
Senescence‐specific Alteration of Hydrogen Peroxide Levels in Arabidopsis thaliana and Oilseed Rape Spring Variety Brassica napus L. cv. MozartF
Authors: Bieker Stefan , Riester Lena , Stahl Mark , Franzaring Jürgen , Zentgraf Ulrike
Published: July 2012

In order to analyze the signaling function of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production in senescence in more detail, we manipulated intracellular H2O2 levels in Arabidopsis thaliala (L.) Heynh by using the hydrogen‐peroxide‐sensitive part of the Escherichia coli transcription regulator OxyR, which was directed to the cytoplasm as well as into the peroxisomes. H2O2 levels were lowered and senescence was delayed in both transgenic lines, but OxyR was found to be more effective in the cytoplasm. To transfer this knowledge to crop plants, we analyzed oilseed rape plants Brassica napus L. cv. Mozart for H2O2 and its scavenging enzymes catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) during leaf and plant development. H2O2 levels were found to increase during bolting and flowering time, but no increase could be observed in the very late stages of senescence. With increasing H2O2 levels, CAT and APX activities declined, so it is likely that similar mechanisms are used in oilseed rape and Arabidopsis to control H2O2 levels. Under elevated CO2 conditions, oilseed rape senescence was accelerated and coincided with an earlier increase in H2O2 levels, indicating that H2O2 may be one of the signals to inducing senescence in a broader range of Brassicaceae.
Experiences of long‐term home care as an informal caregiver to a spouse: gendered meanings in everyday life for female carers
Authors: Eriksson Henrik , Sandberg Jonas , Hellström Ingrid
Published: July 2012

eriksson h., sandberg j. & hellström i. (2013) Experiences of long‐term home care as an informal caregiver to a spouse: gendered meanings in everyday life for female carers. International Journal of Older People Nursing 8, 159–165  doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2012.00340.x

Aims and objectives.  In this article, we explore the gender aspects of long‐term caregiving from the perspective of women providing home care for a spouse suffering from dementia.

Background.  One of the most common circumstances in which a woman gradually steps into a long‐term caregiver role at home involves caring for a spouse suffering from dementia. Little attention has been paid to examining the experiences and motivations of such caregivers from a feminist perspective.

Methods.  Twelve women, all of whom were informal caregivers to a partner suffering from dementia, were interviewed on the following themes: the home, their partner’s disease, everyday life, their relationship and autonomy. The results of these interviews were analysed in relation to gender identity and social power structures using a feminist perspective.

Results.  The findings of this study show that the informants frequently reflected on their caregiving activities in terms of both general and heteronormative expectations. The results suggest that the process of heteropolarisation in these cases can be an understood as a consequence of both the spouse’s illness and the resulting caring duties. Also, the results suggest that the act of caring leads to introspections concerning perceived ‘shortcomings’ as a caregiver. Finally, the results indicate that it is important to recognise when the need for support in day‐to‐day caring is downplayed.

Conclusions.  Women view their caregiving role and responsibilities as paramount; their other duties, including caring for themselves, are deemed less important. We stress that the intense commitment and responsibilities that women experience in their day‐to‐day caring must be acknowledged and that it is important for healthcare professionals to find mechanisms for providing choices for female caregivers without neglecting their moral concerns.

Implications for practice.  Female carers face difficulties in always living up to gendered standards and this need to be considered when evaluating policies and practices for family carers.
Motor excitability is reduced prior to voluntary movements in children and adolescents with Tourette syndrome
Authors: Jackson Stephen R. , Parkinson Amy , Manfredi Valentina , Millon Guy , Hollis Chris , Jackson Georgina M.
Published: July 2012

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuro‐developmental disorder characterized by the occurrence of motor and vocal tics: involuntary, repetitive, stereotyped behaviours that occur with a limited duration, often typically many times in a single day. Previous studies suggest that children and adolescents with TS may undergo compensatory, neuroplastic changes in brain structure and function that help them gain control over their tics. In the current study we used single‐pulse and dual‐site paired‐pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), in conjunction with a manual choice reaction time task that induces high levels of inter‐manual conflict, to investigate this conjecture in a group of children and adolescents with TS, but without co‐morbid Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We found that performance on the behavioural response‐conflict task did not differ between the adolescents with TS and a group of age‐matched typically developing individuals. By contrast, our study demonstrated that cortical excitability, as measured by TMS‐induced motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs), was significantly reduced in the TS group in the period immediately preceding a finger movement. This effect is interpreted as consistent with previous suggestions that the cortical hyper‐excitability that may give rise to tics in TS is actively suppressed by cognitive control mechanisms. Finally, we found no reliable evidence for altered patterns of functional inter‐hemispheric connectivity in TS. These results provide evidence for compensatory brain reorganization that may underlie the increased self‐regulation mechanisms that have been hypothesized to bring about the control of tics during adolescence.