bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between body image disturbance and incidence of depression: the SUN prospective cohort
Authors: Pimenta Adriano Marçal , Sánchez-Villegas Almudena , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , López Celeste Nicole , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel
Published: January 2009

Background

Body image disturbance is an increasing problem in Western societies and is associated with a number of mental health outcomes including anorexia, bulimia, body dysmorphia, and depression. The aim of this study was to assess the association between body image disturbance and the incidence of depression.

Methods

This study included 10,286 participants from a dynamic prospective cohort of Spanish university graduates, who were followed-up for a median period of 4.2 years (Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra – the SUN study). The key characteristic of the study is the permanently open recruitment that started in 1999. The baseline questionnaire included information about body mass index (BMI) and the nine figure schemes that were used to assess body size perception. These variables were grouped according to recommended classifications and the difference between BMI and body size perception was considered as a proxy of body image disturbance. A subject was classified as an incident case of depression if he/she was initially free of depression and reported a physician-made diagnosis of depression and/or the use of antidepressant medication in at least one of the follow-up questionnaires. The association between body image disturbance and the incidence of depression was estimated by calculating the multivariable adjusted Odds Ratio (OR) and its 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI), using logistic regression models.

Results

The cumulative incidence of depression during follow-up in the cohort was 4.8%. Men who underestimated their body size had a high percentage of overweight and obesity (50.1% and 12.6%, respectively), whereas women who overestimated their body size had a high percentage of underweight (87.6%). The underestimation exhibited a negative association with the incidence of depression among women (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.54 – 0.95), but this effect disappeared after adjusting for possible confounding variables. The proportion of participants who correctly perceived their body size was high (53.3%) and gross misperception was seldom found, with most cases selecting only one silhouette below (42.7%) or above (2.6%) their actual BMI.

Conclusion

We found no association between body image disturbance and subsequent depression in a cohort of university graduates in Spain.
Characteristics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Spain from a gender perspective
Authors: Carrasco-Garrido Pilar , de Miguel-Díez Javier , Rejas-Gutierrez Javier , Martín-Centeno Antonio , Gobartt-Vázquez Elena , Hernandez-Barrera Valentin , de Miguel Angel Gil , Jimenez-Garcia Rodrigo
Published: January 2009

Background

The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical and management characteristics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in men and women, to determine possible gender-associated differences between the two groups of patients.

Methods

An observational and descriptive epidemiological study (EPIDEPOC study). The study included patients with stable COPD and aged ≥ 40 years, evaluated in primary care. Data were collected relating to sociodemographic variables, clinical characteristics, quality of life (SF-12), severity of disease and treatment. The results obtained in men and women were compared.

Results

A total of 10,711 patients (75.6% males and 24.4% females) were evaluated. Significant differences were found between males and females in relation to the following parameters: age (67.4 ± 9.2 years in men vs 66.1 ± 10.8 in women, p < 0.05), smoking (91.9% of the men were smokers or ex-smokers vs 30% of the women), comorbidity (the frequency of hypertension, diabetes, anxiety and depression was greater in women, while ischemic heart disease was more common in men), mental component of quality of life (49.4 ± 10.3 in men vs 44.6 ± 11.9 in women, p < 0.05) and severity of disease (56.5 ± 13.3% in men vs 60.7 ± 3.2 in women, p < 0.05). As regards treatment, the percentage use of long-acting b2-adrenergic agonists, anticholinergic agents, theophyllines and mucolytic agents was significant greater in men. The total annual cost of COPD was greater in males than in females (1989.20 ± 2364.47 € vs 1724.53 ± 2106.90, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The women with COPD evaluated in this study were younger, smoked less and have more comorbidity, a poorer quality of life, and lesser disease severity than men with COPD. However, they generated a lesser total annual cost of COPD than men.
Establishment and characterization of three new human breast cancer cell lines derived from Chinese breast cancer tissues
Authors: Shen Chao , Gu Meijia , Liang Dan , Miao Lixia , Hu Liu , Zheng Congyi , Chen Jiakuan
Published: January 2009

Background

Breast cancer is a major malignancy affecting females worldwide. It is the most common cause of death from cancer in women. Cell lines are widely used in laboratory research and particularly as in vitro models in cancer research. But we found that the routinely used breast cancer cell lines were mostly derived from Caucasians or African-Americans. There were few standard models to study the pathogenic mechanism at molecular level and cell signaling pathway of breast cancer for Asian patients. It is quite necessary to establish new breast cancer cell lines from xanthoderm to study the pathogenic mechanism and therapeutic methods.

Results

Three new breast cancer cell lines, designated BC-019, BC-020 and BC-021, were successfully established and characterized from breast invasive ductal carcinoma tissues of three Chinese female patients. These new cell lines growing as adherent monolayer with characteristic epithelial morphology could be maintained continuously in vitro, and they were ER-, PR- and C-erbB-2-positive. Their chromosomes showed high hyperdiploidy and complex rearrangements, and they displayed aggressive tumorigencity in tumorigenesis test.

Conclusion

The three newly established breast cancer cell lines from Chinese patients were tested for a number of, and the results indicate that the cell lines were in good quality and could be served as new cell models in breast cancer study.
Prolonged hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis syndrome as an initial presentation of Hodgkin lymphoma: a case report
Authors: Chan Kathryn , Behling Eric , Strayer David S , Kocher William S , Dessain Scott K
Published: January 2009

Introduction

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is an immune-mediated syndrome that typically has a rapidly progressive course that can result in pancytopenia, coagulopathy, multi-system organ failure and death.

Case presentation

A 57-year-old Caucasian woman was referred in fulminant hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, with fever, pancytopenia, splenomegaly, mental status changes and respiratory failure. She was found to have stage IV classical Hodgkin lymphoma, in addition to Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus viremia. Her presentation was preceded by a 3-year prodrome consisting of cytopenia and fever that were partially controlled by steroids and azathioprine.

Conclusion

Fulminant hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis may follow a prodromal phase that possesses features suggestive of a chronic form of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, but which may also resemble immune cytopenias of other causes. A diagnosis of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis should be considered in the setting of chronic pancytopenia.
Pulmonary Kaposi sarcoma in a human immunodeficiency virus – infected woman: a case report
Authors: Cabral Rafael Ferracini , Marchiori Edson , Takayasu Tatiana Chinem , Cabral Fernanda Caseira , Batista Raquel Ribeiro , Zanetti Gláucia
Published: January 2009

Approximately 90% to 95% of Kaposi sarcoma cases occur in human immunodeficiency virus – infected homosexual and bisexual men. Pulmonary Kaposi sarcoma is uncommon in women, and rarely considered as a potential cause of diffuse lung disease in women with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. The disease is usually mistaken clinically for pulmonary infection. A 32-year-old woman was admitted with a 2-month history of dyspnea, evening fever, hemoptysis, weight loss, and generalized adenomegaly. Physical examination showed erythematous macules in the lower limbs. Skin and open lung biopsy demonstrated Kaposi sarcoma. Computerized tomography demonstrated peribronchovascular interstitial thickening. Although uncommon, pulmonary Kaposi sarcoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of diffuse lung disease in women with AIDS.
Nurses' prediction of volume status after aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Hoff Reinier G , Rinkel Gabriel JE , Verweij Bon H , Algra Ale , Kalkman Cor J
Published: January 2009

Introduction

Patients who have suffered aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) often have derangements in blood volume, contributing to poor outcome. To guide fluid management, regular assessments of volume status must be conducted. We studied the ability of nursing staff to predict hypovolaemia or hypervolaemia, based on their interpretation of available haemodynamic data.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study, intensive care unit and medium care unit nurses, currently treating patients with recent SAH, were asked to predict present volume status. For their assessment they could use all available haemodynamic parameters (for example, heart rate, blood pressure, fluid balance). The nurses' assessments were compared with the actual circulating blood volume (CBV), as measured daily with pulse dye densitometry during the first 10 days after SAH. Normovolaemia was defined as a CBV of 60 to 80 ml/kg body weight; hypovolaemia as CBV under 60 ml/kg; severe hypovolaemia as CBV under 50 ml/kg and hypervolaemia as CBV above 80 ml/kg.

Results

A total of 350 combinations of volume predictions and CBV measurements were obtained in 43 patients. Prediction of hypovolaemia had a sensitivity of 0.10 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.06 to 0.16) and a positive predictive value of 0.37 (95% CI = 0.23 to 0.53) for actual hypovolaemia. The prediction of hypervolaemia had a sensitivity of 0.06 (95% CI = 0.01 to 0.16) and a positive predictive value of 0.06 (95% CI = 0.02 to 0.19) for actual hypervolaemia. Mean CBV was significantly lower in instances considered hypervolaemic than in instances considered normovolaemic.

Conclusions

Assessment of haemodynamic condition in patients with SAH by intensive care unit or medium care unit nurses does not adequately predict hypovolaemia or hypervolaemia, as measured using pulse dye densitometry. Fluid therapy after SAH may require guidance with more advanced techniques than interpretation of usual haemodynamic parameters.
Coping with a coroner's inquest: a psychiatrist's guide
Authors: St John-Smith Paul , Michael Albert , Davies Teifion
Published: January 2009

During the period 2000–2004 the average annual suicide rate in England and Wales was 10.2 deaths per 100 000 population over 10 years of age. About a quarter of those who take their own lives are in contact with mental health services in the year before their death. This means that an average in-patient, sector or community psychiatrist is likely to experience the death of at least one patient by suicide in most years. Suicides by patients cause considerable distress for the psychiatrist that is unlikely to resolve until after the coroner's hearing. This article discusses suicide prevention and provides guidance for psychiatrists on preparing for a coroner's inquest following a patient's death that may have been by suicide.
Managing cannabis use in people with severe mental illness: what can be done?
Authors: Atakan Zerrin
Published: January 2009

Nearly half of people with severe mental illness use cannabis sometime in their lives and during their illness. Its use can have multiple and severe consequences for the course of the illness. Despite the significance of the problem, managing cannabis use in this group is a recently developing topic and is still in its infancy. This article reviews the current state of knowledge on the management of people with severe mental illness who continue to use cannabis, specifically focusing on different models of service provision, and psychological and pharmacological interventions.
How psychiatrists think
Authors: Crumlish Niall , Kelly Brendan D.
Published: January 2009

Over the past decade, the study of error in medicine has expanded to incorporate new insights from cognitive psychology, generating increased research and clinical interest in cognitive errors and clinical decision-making. The study of cognitive error focuses on predictable errors in thinking that result from the use of cognitive shortcuts or ‘heuristics’. Heuristics reduce the time, resources and cognitive effort required for clinical decision-making and are a feature of mature clinical thinking. Heuristics can also lead to bias and must be used with an awareness of their weaknesses. In this article, we describe heuristics commonly used in clinical decision-making and discuss how failure of heuristics results in cognitive error. We apply research findings on decision-making in medicine to decision-making in psychiatry and suggest directions for training and future research into cognitive error in psychiatry.
Article 8 of the Human Rights Act 1998: implications for clinical practice
Authors: Curtice Martin
Published: January 2009

The Human Rights Act was introduced into UK law in 2000 and must be considered in all cases, including mental health review tribunals. Article 8 (the right to respect for private and family life) comprises two parts and has embedded in it ‘tests’ that must be applied when assessing any interference with this protected right. A review of Article 8 case law reveals how it is used and how it can be applied in a myriad of clinical situations. Because it involves the right to respect for private life, and is in a sense individualised, it will potentially affect people (both patients and staff) in the mental health services in a variety of ways. Article 8 has implications not only for patients but also for clinicians and healthcare organisations.
‘Is everyone mad?’ The depiction of mental disturbance in the work of Dostoyevsky
Authors: Beveridge Allan
Published: January 2009

This article examines how madness is depicted in the work of Dostoyevsky. It gives a brief account of Dostoyevsky's life before looking at the many ways in which he portrayed insanity. It suggests that he provided a sophisticated and complex picture of mental illness which has relevance for how contemporary clinicians conceive of psychiatric illness.
Coping with suicide: a perspective from Scotland
Authors: Callender John S. , Eagles John M.
Published: January 2009

Procedures following suicide differ in Scotland from elsewhere in the UK and we describe the investigation of deaths by procurators fiscal and fatal accident inquiries that may ensue. Higher Scottish suicide rates, and possible reasons for these, are mentioned. Suicide risk cannot be accurately quantified in individual patients but psychiatrists should take the view that good management can collectively reduce the risk among all patients. We comment on practical and emotional issues for clinicians who are coping with the suicide of a patient.
Trends in mental health review tribunal and hospital managers' hearings in north-east London 1997–2007
Authors: Singh Dhananjay Kumar , Moncrieff Joanna
Published: January 2009

Aims and Method

To examine trends in appeals to mental health review tribunals and hospital managers' panels in a hospital covering two outer London boroughs from 1997 to 2007. Data were also used to explore associations between demographic variables, including ethnicity, and the results of appeal hearings.

Results

The number of detentions under Mental Health Act Sections 2, 3 and 37 rose from 203 in 1996 to 279 in 2006. the percentage of these that went to appeal increased from 34% to 81% during the same period. However, there was no observed trend in the result of the appeals. the results were not associated with gender, ethnicity, marital status, age or the section involved; 12% of appeals were successful.

Clinical Implications

The study shows rising use of the Mental Health Act over the past 10 years and an increasing volume of appeals against its use. Since appeals are no more likely to result in discharge, the increased use of the Mental Health Act is not balanced by increased rates of discharge by review hearings. the study also demonstrates the rising workload for all involved in appeal hearings.
Impact of a crisis resolution team on service costs in the UK
Authors: McCrone Paul , Johnson Sonia , Nolan Fiona , Sandor Andrew , Hoult John , Pilling Stephen , White Ian R. , Bebbington Paul , McKenzie Nigel
Published: January 2009

Aims and Methods

This paper assesses the economic impact of a crisis resolution team (CRT) in South London, using data from a prospective controlled trial. Two cohorts of patients were compared. After referral with a psychiatric crisis, the first cohort received existing services and the second cohort had access to input from a CRT. Baseline and follow-up 6-month costs were measured for 181 cases.

Results

At follow-up, mean costs were £1681 less for the post-CRT patients, which was not statistically significant. However, a significant difference of £2189 was observed when patients with any CRT contact were compared with those with none.

Clinical Implications

The crisis resolution team resulted in lower costs. Such services can thus help to release funds for other forms of care.
Non-medical prescribing: the story so far
Authors: Kwentoh Mona-Lisa , Reilly Joe
Published: January 2009

Non-medical prescribing is an element of the National Health Service modernisation agenda intended to change traditional professional roles and responsibilities, as part of New Ways of Working. This article describes concepts of non-medical prescribing and its implications for UK psychiatric practice. the perceived benefits of non-medical prescribing cannot be denied but debate continues about competence and clinical governance issues. Psychiatrists have an essential role to play in the success of non-medical prescribing. Further research and evaluation are needed to establish what works best in terms of clinical safety and training.
(In) capacity legislation in practice
Authors: McCulloch Justine
Published: January 2009

Aims and Method

Capacity legislation was implemented in Scotland in 2002 under the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000. This questionnaire study aimed to explore the knowledge, experience and opinions of the Act among consultant psychiatrists in Scotland (n=373; response rate 64%).

Results

The majority of respondents had attended an induction programme: 74% were confident in their assessment of capacity and 54% felt confident in their use of the Act. Awareness of the principles and code of practice was good. the administration of the Act varied between areas.

Clinical Implications

Despite good knowledge of the Act, respondents reported they were largely self-taught and would welcome further training. Administration, uptake by other medical disciplines and discrepancies between principle and practice were raised; these concerns are relevant to amendments of this legislation and to other jurisdictions.
Structure of shear bands in Pd40Ni40P20bulk metallic glass
Authors: Chen Y.M. , Ohkubo T. , Mukai T. , Hono K.
Published: January 2009

The atomic structure of shear bands in Pd40Ni40P20bulk metallic glass has been compared to an undeformed matrix phase using pair distribution functions (PDFs) derived from energy filtered nanobeam electron diffraction. Shear bands do not show any characteristic contrast in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images when specimens are prepared with uniform thickness. PDFs from a shear band exhibit a slight decrease in the first peak, indicating a slight difference in packing density and short range order compared to the undeformed matrix.
Fabrication of hybrid composites based on biomineralization of phosphorylated poly(ethylene glycol) hydrogels
Authors: Kim Chan Woo , Kim Sung Eun , Kim Yong Woo , Lee Hong Jae , Choi Hyung Woo , Chang Jeong Ho , Choi Jinsub , Kim Kyung Ja , Shim Kwang Bo , Jeong Young-Keun , Lee Sang Cheon
Published: January 2009

A novel route to organic-inorganic composites was described based on biomineralization of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogels. The 3-dimensional hydrogels were synthesized by radical crosslinking polymerization of poly(ethylene glycol fumarate) (PEGF) in the presence of ethylene glycol methacrylate phosphate (EGMP) as an apatite-nuclating monomer, acrylamide (AAm) as a composition-modulating comonomer, and potassium persulfate (PPS) as a radical initiator. We used the urea-mediated solution precipitation technique for biomineralization of hydrogels. The apatite grown on the surface and interior of the hydrogel was similar to biological apatites in the composition and crystalline structure. Powder x-ray diffraction (XRD) showed that the calcium phosphate crystalline platelets on hydrogels are preferentially aligned along the crystallographic c-axis direction. Inductively-coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) analysis showed that the Ca/P molar ratio of apatites grown on the hydrogel template was found to be 1.60, which is identical to that of natural bones. In vitro cell experiments showed that the cell adhesion/proliferation on the mineralized hydrogel was more pronounced than on the pure polymer hydrogel.
Uniaxial and biaxial compressive response of a bulk metallic glass composite over a range of strain rates and temperatures
Authors: Martin M. , Meyer L. , Kecskes L. , Thadhani N.N.
Published: January 2009

The uniaxial and biaxial compressive responses of Zr57Nb5Al10Cu15.4Ni12.6–W composite were investigated over a range of strain rates (∼10−3 to 103 s−1) using an Instron universal testing machine (∼10−3 to 10° s−1), drop-weight tower (∼200 s−1), and split Hopkinson pressure bar (103 s−1). The temperature dependence of the mechanical behavior was investigated at temperatures ranging from room temperature to 600 °C using the instrumented drop-weight testing apparatus, mounted with an inductive heating device. The deformed and fractured specimens were examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Stopped experiments were used to investigate deformation and failure mechanisms at specified strain intervals in both the drop weight and split Hopkinson bar tests. These stopped specimens were also subsequently examined using optical and scanning electron microscopy to observe shear band and crack formation and development after increasingly more strain. The overall results showed an increase in yield strength with strain rate and a decrease in failure strength, plasticity, and hardening with strain rate. Comparison of uniaxial and biaxial loading showed strong susceptibility to shear failure since the additional 10% shear stress caused failure at much lower strains in all cases. Results also showed a decrease in flow stress and plasticity with increased temperature. Also notable was the anomalous behavior at 450 °C, which lies between the Tg and Tx and is in a temperature regime where homogeneous flow, as opposed to heterogeneous deformation by shear banding, is the dominant mechanism in the bulk metallic glass.
Epitaxial growth of NiSi2 induced by sulfur segregationat the NiSi2/Si(100) interface
Authors: Zhao Q.T. , Mi S.B. , Jia C.L. , Urban C. , Sandow C. , Habicht S. , Mantl S.
Published: January 2009

Epitaxial growth of a NiSi2 layer was observed on S+ ion-implanted Si(100) at a low temperature of 550 °C. Depending on the S+ dose and the Ni thickness, we identified different nickel silicide phases. High quality and uniform epitaxial NiSi2 layers formed at temperatures above 700 °C with a 20-nm Ni on high dose S+ implanted Si(100), whereas no epitaxy was observed for a 36-nm Ni layer. We assume that the presence of sulfur at the silicide/Si(100) interface favors the nucleation of the NiSi2 phase. The S atom distributions showed ultrasteep S depth profiles (3 nm/decade) in the silicon, which results from the snow-plow effect during silicidation and the segregation of S to the interface due to the low solubility of S in both Si and the silicide.
Optimization of synthesis of the solid solution, Pb(Zr1–xTix)O3 on a single substrate using a high-throughput modified molecular-beam epitaxy technique
Authors: Anderson P.S. , Guerin S. , Hayden B.E. , Han Y. , Pasha M. , Whittle K.R. , Reaney I.M.
Published: January 2009

Synthesis of Pb(Zr1–xTix)O3 (PZT) on a single substrate using a high-throughput molecular-beam epitaxy technique was demonstrated. In situ synthesis of crystalline PZT at elevated substrate temperatures could not be achieved, as reevaporation of Pb (PbO) occurred and the partial pressure of O2 was insufficient to prevent formation of a PbPtx phase during deposition. Instead, ex situ postdeposition annealing was performed on PZT deposited at room temperature. Dense single phase PZT was prepared with a compositional range of 0.1 > x > 0.9, for film thicknesses up to 800 nm. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the grain size increased from 50 nm to ∼0.5 μm with increasing Zr-concentration and became more columnar. Raman, x-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectroscopy results revealed a morphotropic phase boundary between rhombohedral and tetragonal phases occurred at x ∼0.4 rather than at x = 0.47 in bulk ceramics. This was attributed to clamping arising from mismatch in thermal expansion between the film and substrate.
Formation of the YBa2Cu2NbOy phase in thin films
Authors: Sathiraju Srinivas , Barnes Paul N. , Wheeler Robert A.
Published: January 2009

We report the systematic substitution of Nb at the Cu1 site of YBa2Cu3Oy in thin films to form a new phase of YBa2Cu2NbO8. These films were deposited on SrTiO3(100) crystals using pulsed laser deposition and deposited at an optimal temperature of 850 °C. Films were characterized using x-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), micro-Raman spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. XRD of these films indicate c-axis oriented YBa2Cu2NbOy formation. XPS and micro-Raman spectroscopy analysis suggests Cu exists in the +2 state.
Microstructure and mechanical behavior of ultrafine-grained Ni processed by different powder metallurgy methods
Authors: Gubicza J. , Bui H-Q. , Fellah F. , Dirras G.F.
Published: January 2009

Ultrafine-grained samples were produced from a Ni nanopowder by hot isostatic pressing (HIP) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). The microstructure and mechanical behavior of the two specimens were compared. The grain coarsening observed during the SPS procedure was moderated due to a reduced temperature and time of consolidation compared with HIP processing. The smaller grain-size and higher nickel-oxide content in the SPS-processed sample resulted in a higher yield strength. Compression experiments showed that the specimen produced by SPS reached a maximal flow stress at a small strain, which was followed by a long steady-state softening while the HIP-processed sample hardened until failure. It was revealed that the softening of the SPS-processed sample resulted from microcracking along the grain boundaries.
Synthesis and characterization of single-crystalline CdS nanorods prepared by γ-irradiation
Authors: Zhang Haijiao , Liu Gang , Wan Xiaojuan , Guo Huijiao , Jiao Zheng , Wu Minghong
Published: January 2009

Under γ-irradiation, thiacetamide (TAA) releases S2−in acidic solutions (e.g., pH = 3), and the S2−can react with available Cd2+in soft templates to form CdS nanorods. Single-crystalline CdS nanorods were prepared in this study. The effects of various synthesis parameters on the crystalline type, morphology, average particle size, and photoelectric properties were thoroughly investigated, including the concentrations of reactants, dose of irradiation, and the type and dosage of templates. The structure and selected physical and chemical properties of products were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and photoluminescence (PL) spectrophotometer techniques. Results indicated that the ratio of reactants to templates greatly affected the morphology of CdS nanorods; the types of soft templates also had significant effects on the morphology and crystalline type of the nanorod products.
Orientation relationship and interfacial structure between Nbsolid solution precipitates and α-Nb5Si3 intermetallics
Authors: Cheng G.M. , Tian Y.X. , He L.L.
Published: January 2009

The orientation relationship (OR) and the interfacial structure between Nb solid solution (Nbss) precipitates and α-Nb5Si3 intermetallics have been investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The OR between Nbss and α-Nb5Si3 was determined by selected-area electron diffraction analyses as (222)Nb//(002)α and . High-resolution TEM images of the Nbss/α-Nb5Si3 interface were presented. Steps existed at the interface that acted as centers of stress concentration and released the distortion of lattices to decrease the interfacial energy. In addition, the interfacial models were proposed based on the observed OR to describe the atomic matching of the interface. The distribution of alloying elements at the Nbss/α-Nb5Si3 interface has also been investigated, and Hf was enriched at the interface to strengthen the grain boundary.
Simultaneous phase- and morphology-controlled synthesis of MnO2 crystals through controlled release of cuprous ions in hydrothermal condition
Authors: Zhang Yange , Zheng Zhi , Wong Ka Wai , Yang Fengling , Zhang Zude
Published: January 2009

The α-, β-, and δ-MnO2 with various morphologies have been synthesized by a novel redox system of KMnO4 and CuCl with HCl added under a hydrothermal condition. The resultant MnO2 products have been characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Upon control of reaction temperature and duration, it was observed that MnO2 polymorphs of different morphology (e.g., flowery δ-MnO2, β-MnO2 nanowires and octahedrons, α-MnO2 nanowires) can be prepared in an adjustable manner. The phenomenon is mainly attributed to the effect of cuprous ions controllably released from CuCl by the action of HCl at different experimental conditions. The corresponding formation mechanism for the MnO2 crystals will also be proposed and discussed.
Morphological analysis of pores in directionally freeze-cast titanium foams
Authors: Fife J.L. , Li J.C. , Dunand D.C. , Voorhees P.W.
Published: January 2009

Synchrotron x-ray tomography was performed on titanium foams with aligned, elongated pores, initially created by sintering directionally freeze-cast preforms using two different powder sizes. Three-dimensional reconstructions of the pore structures were analyzed morphologically using interface shape and interface normal distributions. A smaller powder size leads to more completely sintered titanium walls separating the dendritic pores, which in turn created a more compact distribution of pore shapes as well as stronger pore directionality parallel to the ice growth direction. The distribution of pore shapes is comparable to trabecular bone reported in the literature, indicating the foam's potential as a bone replacement material.
Densification mechanism involved during spark plasma sintering of a codoped α-alumina material: Part I. Formal sintering analysis
Authors: Bernard-Granger G. , Guizard C.
Published: January 2009

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) of a codoped α-alumina powder has been investigated at temperatures between 850 and 1200 °C. The “grain size versus relative density” trajectory showed a significant grain growth as soon as the residual porosity closed. The densification mechanism was determined by anisothermal (investigation of the heating part of a SPS run) and isothermal methods. It was proposed that grain-boundary sliding, accommodated by oxygen grain-boundary diffusion, governed densification.
Microwave heating behavior of nanocrystalline Au thin films in single-mode cavity
Authors: Cao Ziping , Yoshikawa Noboru , Taniguchi Shoji
Published: January 2009

In this work, microwave heating curves and microstructural evolution of nanocrystalline Au thin films were studied so the heating behavior of metals could be better understood. Films with different thickness were irradiated by the H and E maximums of microwave in a single-mode cavity. These samples were more efficiently heated by H field than by E field. With the increase of film thickness, the attained highest temperature increased. This phenomenon was compared with the theory of the transmission line analysis. Peaks appearing at the initial stage of the heating curves were also compared with similar heating behaviors observed in metal powder compacts, and the possible mechanisms related to the heating behavior were explored.
Effect of Ag addition on local structure of Cu–Zr glassy alloy
Authors: Louzguine-Luzgin Dmitri V. , Georgarakis Kostas , Yavari Alain R. , Vaughan Gavin , Xie Guoqiang , Inoue Akihisa
Published: January 2009

The effect of Ag substituting Cu on the structural features of the Cu55Zr45, Cu45Zr45Ag10, and Cu35Zr45Ag20glassy alloys was studied using the real-space pair distribution and radial distribution functions. The experimental x-ray diffraction data obtained in a synchrotron beam were used to derive pair and radial distribution functions through Fourier transformation processing. These results suggest that a certain degree of medium-range order in this alloy is maintained up to about 2.5 nm distance. It is suggested that the addition of Ag causes formation of a more homogeneous local atomic structure compared with that of a binary Cu–Zr alloy, which could be considered as a reason for the improved glass-forming ability of this alloy.
Thermal properties of nanocrystalline Al composites reinforced by AlN nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Y.Q. , Cong H.T. , Cheng H.M.
Published: January 2009

To explore potential applications of nanocomposites for microelectronic packaging, the thermal properties were investigated on newly developed nanocrystalline Al composites reinforced by AlN nanoparticles. It was found that the thermal conductivity (TC) is reduced with increasing AlN volume fraction (Vp), since connectivity of Al matrix is decreased by introduction of the nanoparticles. Although AlN nanoparticles introduce thermal resistance, they still have significant contribution to the TC of the composite as high-TC inclusion. Particularly, a percolation behavior of AlN nanoparticles is thought to occur with the threshold at 23–30%. Measurements at elevated temperatures (∼500 °C) show almost no distinct degradation of TC relative to room temperature. Moreover, the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) is remarkably lowered as Vp increases, e.g., from 26 × 10−6 to 13.9 × 10−6 K−1, by raising Vp to 39%. Therefore, the nanocomposites may be applicable as electronic packaging material, due to the combination of acceptable TC and low CTE.
Facile composite synthesis and photoluminescence of NaGd(MoO4)2: Ln3+(Ln = Eu, Tb) submicrometer phosphors
Authors: Yan Bing , Wu Jianhua
Published: January 2009

NaGd(MoO4)2:Ln3+(Ln = Eu, Tb) submicrometer phosphors have been synthesized by a composite method including the solid state reaction process at room temperature and the hydrothermal process. It is revealed that temperature and humidity have an influence on the reaction rate and that higher temperature and humidity can speed up the reaction process. Crystalline water is necessary for the solid phase reaction at room temperature. The x-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns indicate that NaGd(MoO4)2:Ln3+(Ln = Eu, Tb) submicrometer phosphors crystallize well with the scheelite structure. Both scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images illustrate that the average grain size of NaGd(MoO4)2:Ln3+is about 225 nm without conglomeration. The luminescent lifetime and quantum efficiency for NaGd(MoO4)2:Eu3+are determined.
Very fast biaxial texture evolution using high rate ion-beam-assisted deposition of MgO
Authors: Matias Vladimir , Hänisch Jens , Rowley E. John , Güth Konrad
Published: January 2009

We examined crystalline-texture evolution during ion-beam-assisted deposition (IBAD) of MgO thin films. We have demonstrated for the first time that in-plane crystalline texturing in IBAD of MgO scales with deposition rate. At high ion currents an in-plane texture full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 10° can be achieved in less than 1 s, and 6° in 2.2 s. MgO texture further improves with thickness of a homoepitaxial layer deposited on top. We have developed an empirical quantification of the texture evolution in both IBAD and homoepitaxial layers. The best texture attained thus far in the MgO layer on polished Hastelloy tape has an in-plane FWHM of 1.6°. The high deposition rates demonstrated here make high-throughput manufacturing of IBAD textured templates a practical and cost-effective concept.
Use of pradofloxacin to treat experimentally induced Mycoplasma hemofelis infection in cats
Authors: Dowers Kristy L. , Tasker Séverine , Radecki Steven V. , Lappin Michael R.
Published: January 2009

Objective—To evaluate the efficacy of the fluoroquinolone pradofloxacin in the treatment of cats experimentally infected with Mycoplasma hemofelis.

Animals—23 young adult specific-pathogen–free cats.

Procedures—Cats were inoculated with M hemofelis from a chronically infected donor and assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups: a doxycycline group, a low-dose–pradofloxacin group, a high-dose–pradofloxacin group, and an untreated control group. Treatment was initiated for 14 days when M hemofelis infection was detected via PCR assay and clinical signs of hemoplasmosis were present. Cats that had negative PCR assay results after treatment were administered a glucocorticoid and monitored via PCR assay for an additional 4 weeks.

Results—All cats yielded positive results for M hemofelis via conventional PCR and quantitative PCR assays and developed anemia. The low-dose–pradofloxacin group had significantly lower M hemofelis copy numbers than the doxycycline group. Six cats treated with pradofloxacin yielded negative results during treatment. Of those cats, 4 yielded negative conventional PCR assay results and all yielded negative quantitative PCR assay results for M hemofelis 1 month after administration of high-dose glucocorticoids.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Pradofloxacin had anti–M hemofelis effects similar to those of doxycycline. In addition, pradofloxacin may be more effective at long-term M hemofelis organism clearance than doxycycline.
Use of multichannel electrogastrography for noninvasive assessment of gastric myoelectrical activity in dogs
Authors: Koenig Judith B. , Martin Christina E. W. , Dobson Howard , Mintchev Martin P.
Published: January 2009

Objective—To evaluate whether changes in gastric myoelectrical activity in healthy, awake dogs can be detected via multichannel electrogastrography (EGG).

Animals—6 healthy hound-breed dogs.

Procedures—For each dog, 8-channel EGG was performed after food had been withheld for 12 hours and at 30 minutes after subsequent feeding; 60 minutes after feeding, atropine (0.04 mg/kg) was administered IM to induce ileus, and 30 minutes later, EGG was again performed. Mean cycles per minute (cpm) values of the dominant frequency (a measure of the rhythmicity of gastric electrical activity) and mean power ratios (ie, power measured after treatment divided by the power measured when food was withheld) were calculated. Motility of the gastric antrum was assessed via B-mode ultrasonography during the same phases; contractions determined ultrasonographically were correlated with EGG power for each channel in each phase.

Results—The criterion for stability (SD of the dominant frequency < 15% of the cpm value in at least 3 of the 8 EGG channels) was met in 4 of the 6 dogs (only in long-distance channels). The mean power ratios were significantly higher in the postprandial phase than in the ileus phase. Compared with the postprandial phase, significantly fewer contractions per minute were evident ultrasonographically in the ileus and food-withholding phases. There was a significant and good correlation between EGG power and ultrasonographic findings in all 8 channels.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Electrogastrography may be useful in assessing gastric myoelectrical activities in awake dogs with naturally occurring gastrointestinal disease, including gastric dilatation-volvulus.
Fourier analysis of vertical ground reaction forces in dogs with unilateral hind limb lameness caused by degenerative disease of the hip joint and in dogs without lameness
Authors: Katic Nikola , Bockstahler Barbara A. , Mueller Marion , Peham Christian
Published: January 2009

Objective—To evaluate the applicability of Fourier analysis for assessment of ground reaction forces (GRFs) and differentiation between dogs with unilateral hind limb lameness caused by degenerative joint disease of the hip (DJD-H) and dogs without lameness.

Animals—37 dogs with or without unilateral DJD-H.

Procedures—Data were obtained from other studies and analyzed retrospectively. Among the 37 dogs, 20 had unilateral DJD-H and 9 (non–Belgian Malinois breeds) had no lameness; another 8 were nonlame Belgian Malinois (radiographically confirmed Fédération Cinologique International classification A [ie, no hip dysplasia or DJD-H]). Gait data acquisition was performed as dogs walked on a treadmill with integrated force platforms. The peak vertical force, mean vertical force, and vertical impulse were compared among the 3 groups. Fourier analysis was performed on the force-time curves for the vertical GRF, and calculated Fourier coefficients were compared within and between groups.

Results—Lameness in the hind limbs with DJD-H was detectable via conventional analysis of the GRF as well as via Fourier analysis. However, subtle gait aberrations in the forelimbs of the dogs with DJD-H were detected solely via Fourier analysis of GRFs and remained undetected via conventional analysis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results support the applicability of Fourier analysis for evaluation of force-time curves of GRFs. Fourier analysis can reveal subtle alterations of gait that might otherwise remain inapparent; however, further investigation is necessary before this method can be routinely applied for lameness detection in dogs.
Development of an intramuscular xenograft model of canine osteosarcoma in mice for evaluation of the effects of radiation therapy
Authors: Coomer Alastair R. , Farese James P. , Milner Rowan , Taylor David , Salute Marc E. , Rajon Didier A. , Bova Francis J. , Siemann Dietmar W.
Published: January 2009

Objective—To develop an IM xenograft model of canine osteosarcoma in mice for the purpose of evaluating effects of radiation therapy on tumors.

Animals—27 athymic nude mice.

Procedures—Mice were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups of 9 mice each: no treatment (control group), radiation at 10 Gy, or radiation at 15 Gy. Each mouse received 5 × 105 highly metastasizing parent osteosarcoma cells injected into the left gastrocnemius muscle. Maximum tumor diameter was determined with a metric circles template to generate a tumor growth curve. Conscious mice were restrained in customized plastic jigs allowing local tumor irradiation. The behavior and development of the tumor xenograft were assessed via evaluations of the interval required for tumor-bearing limbs to reach diameters of 8 and 13 mm, extent of tumor vasculature, histomorphology of tumors, degree of tumor necrosis, and existence of pulmonary metastasis and clinical disease in affected mice.

Results—Tumor-bearing limbs grew to a diameter of 8 mm (0.2-g tumor mass) in a mean ± SEM interval of 7.0 ± 0.2 days in all mice. Interval to grow from 8 to 13 mm was significantly prolonged for both radiation therapy groups, compared with that of the control group. Histologic evaluation revealed the induced tumors were highly vascular and had characteristics consistent with those of osteosarcoma. Pulmonary metastasis was not detected, and there was no significant difference in percentage of tumor necrosis between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A reliable, repeatable, and easily produced IM xenograft model was developed for in vivo assessment of canine osteosarcoma.
Efficacy of immobilization of the tarsal joint to alleviate strain on the common calcaneal tendon in dogs
Authors: Lister Stephanie A. , Renberg Walter C. , Roush James K.
Published: January 2009

Objective—To measure strain in the common calcaneal tendon during trotting in dogs and to compare strain before and after immobilization of the tarsal joint.

Animals—6 dogs.

Procedures—A microminiature strain gauge was surgically implanted on the tendinous portion of the gastrocnemius muscle. Surface electromyography (EMG) values, percentage strain, and ground reaction forces were measured before and after immobilization. Peak vertical force; vertical impulse; initial, maximum, and final strain; and peak-to-peak EMG amplitude were recorded. Data were analyzed by use of a repeated-measures ANOVA and paired t tests.

Results—Timing of strain data correlated closely with foot strike of the hind limb and EMG activity in all dogs. Maximum tendon strain was simultaneous with peak vertical force. Continued muscle contraction was evident after immobilization. There was no significant difference in maximum strain after immobilization, compared with maximum strain during normal motion. Minimum strain, both at the beginning and end of the strain curve, was sig-nificantly decreased for the immobilized state, compared with results for nonimmobilized joints.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Immobilization of the tarsal joint did not eliminate calcaneal tendon strain during weight bearing in dogs. Decreased isometric muscle contraction during the swing phase of the gait could account for smaller minimum strain in immobilized joints. Immobilization is frequently applied after Achilles tendon rupture to alleviate strain and force on the sutured repair, with possible complications because of the immobilization method. Consideration of these findings could be important in adjusting current treatment recommendations.