bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Community‐Based Rehabilitation for Children with or at Significant Risk of Intellectual Disabilities in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Review
Authors: Robertson Janet , Emerson Eric , Hatton Chris , Yasamy M. T.
Published: February 2012

Background  Community‐based rehabilitation (CBR) is being implemented in more than 90 countries. Concerns have been voiced about the adequacy of the evidence base regarding the efficacy, effectiveness and efficiency of CBR. This review summarizes evidence on the efficacy of CBR for children with intellectual disabilities.

Materials and method  Electronic literature database searches were conducted to identify articles in the English language published since 1980 relating to the efficacy of CBR for children with intellectual disabilities. Requests for information were also sent to membership of International Association for the Scientific Study of Intellectual Disabilities and relevant organizations in selected low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Results  Thirteen studies were identified for inclusion in the review. The quality of evidence for the efficacy of CBR for children with intellectual disabilities was ‘very low’.

Conclusion  Improving the evidence base will require greater investment in evaluation and addressing the marginalization of people with intellectual disabilities in CBR.
Interventions for Children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders in Low and Middle Income Countries
Authors: Hastings Richard P. , Robertson Janet , Yasamy M. T.
Published: February 2012

Background  Although interventions for children with pervasive developmental disorders (PDD) have been the focus of research effort and evidence reviews in many Western countries, this evidence has not been assessed in the context of low‐ and middle‐income (LAMI) countries especially in terms of the fit with different cultures and resources.

Method  As a part of the WHO MH‐GAP project, we carried out a systematic review of published literature relating to interventions for PDD in LAMI countries. Given the small amount of direct evidence found, we supplemented the review with findings from existing relevant evidence reviews to draw practical recommendations.

Results  We found only four controlled studies evaluating an intervention for children with PDD in a LAMI country. These studies all evaluated different interventions. A systematic search of controlled studies of evidence‐based parenting training interventions (Incredible Years and Triple P) in non‐LAMI countries identified two studies both indicating successful outcomes.

Conclusions  The evidence base for interventions for PDDs in LAMI countries is sparse, and to inform practical and future research recommendations, it is important to consider potentially deliverable behavioural parent training interventions. Such interventions need to be explored in LAMI countries when delivered in primary and secondary healthcare contexts.
A model of osteoblast–osteocyte kinetics in the development of secondary osteons in rabbits
Authors: Pazzaglia Ugo E. , Congiu Terenzio , Franzetti Eleonora , Marchese Marcella , Spagnuolo Francesco , Di Mascio Livio , Zarattini Guido
Published: February 2012

The kinetics of osteogenic cells within secondary osteons have been examined within a 2‐D model. The linear osteoblast density of the osteons and the osteocyte lacunae density were compared with other endosteal lamellar systems of different geometries. The cell density was significantly greater in the endosteal appositional zone and was always flatter than the central osteonal canals. Fully structured osteons compared with early structuring (cutting cones) did not show any significant differences in density. The osteoblast density may remain constant because some of them leave the row and become embedded within matrix. The overall shape of the Haversian system represented a geometrical restraint and it was thought to be related to osteoblast–osteocyte transformation. To test this hypothesis of an early differentiation and recruitment of the osteoblast pool which completes the lamellar structure of the osteon, the number and density of osteoblasts and osteocyte lacunae were evaluated. In the central canal area, the mean osteoblast linear density and the osteocyte lacunae planar density were not significantly different among sub‐classes (with the exclusion of the osteocyte lacunae of the 300–1000 μm2 sub‐class). The mean number of osteoblasts compared with osteocyte lacunae resulted in significantly higher numbers in the two sub‐classes, no significant difference was seen in the two middle sub‐classes with the larger canals, and there were significantly lower levels in the smallest central canal sub‐class. The TUNEL technique was used to identify the morphological features of apoptosis within osteoblasts. It was found that apoptosis occurred during the late phase of osteon formation but not in osteocytes. This suggests a regulatory role of apoptosis in balancing the osteoblast–osteocyte equilibrium within secondary osteon development. The position of the osteocytic lacunae did not correlate with the lamellar pattern and the lacunae density in osteonal radial sectors was not significantly different. These findings support the hypothesis of an early differentiation of the osteoblast pool and the independence of the fibrillar lamellation from osteoblast–osteocyte transformation.
Practitioner Review: Self‐harm in adolescents
Authors: Ougrin Dennis , Tranah Troy , Leigh Eleanor , Taylor Lucy , Asarnow Joan Rosenbaum
Published: February 2012

Background:  Repeated self‐harm in adolescents is common and associated with elevated psychopathology, risk of suicide, and demand for clinical services. Despite recent advances in the understanding and treatment of self‐harm there have been few systematic reviews of the topic.

Aims:  The main aim of this article is to review randomised controlled trials (RCTs) reporting efficacy of specific pharmacological, social or psychological therapeutic interventions (TIs) in reducing self‐harm repetition in adolescents presenting with self‐harm.

Method:  Data sources were identified by searching Medline, PsychINFO, EMBASE, and PubMed from the first available year to December 2010. RCTs comparing specific TIs versus treatment as usual or placebo in adolescents presenting with self‐harm were included.

Results:  Fourteen RCTs reported efficacy of psychological and social TIs in adolescents presenting with self‐harm. No independently replicated RCTs have been identified reporting efficacy of TIs in self‐harm reduction. Developmental Group Psychotherapy versus treatment as usual was associated with a reduction in repeated self‐harm, however, this was not replicated in subsequent studies. Multisystemic Therapy (MST) versus psychiatric hospitalisation was associated with a reduction of suicidal attempts in a sample of adolescents with a range of psychiatric emergencies. However, analyses focusing only on the smaller subgroup of adolescents presenting with deliberate self‐harm at the initial psychiatric emergency, did not indicate significant benefits of MST versus hospitalisation.

Conclusions:  Further research is urgently needed to develop TIs for treating self‐harm in adolescents. MST has shown promise but needs to be evaluated in a sample of adolescents with self‐harm; dialectic behavioural therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy for self‐harm require RCTs to evaluate efficacy and effectiveness.
Parental alcohol‐specific rules and alcohol use from early adolescence to young adulthood
Authors: Mares Suzanne H.W. , Lichtwarck‐Aschoff Anna , Burk William J. , van der Vorst Haske , Engels Rutger C.M.E.
Published: February 2012

Background:  Several studies stress the importance of alcohol‐specific rules during adolescence to prevent them from drinking early and heavily. However, most studies have short follow‐up periods and do not cover the relevant developmental period in which direct parental control diminishes and adolescent alcohol use increases. The current study aimed to provide a developmental perspective on the link between alcohol‐specific rules and alcohol use from early adolescence until early adulthood in the Netherlands.

Methods:  The sample consisted of 428 Dutch families including fathers, mothers and adolescents from 2 age groups (13 and 15 years old) at Time 1 (T1), who have been surveyed annually for 6 years. To address the effect of alcohol‐specific rules on adolescent alcohol use over time, a latent growth curve analytic approach with time‐varying covariates was employed.

Results:  Over time, adolescent alcohol use increased, whereas alcohol‐specific rules decreased. Most importantly, however, the lagged paths of alcohol‐specific rules consistently predicted subsequent alcohol use across the 6 assessments for both younger and older siblings. Thus, strict alcohol‐specific rules at a certain point in time were related to a lower intensity of adolescent alcohol use a year later.

Conclusions:  Although parents turn somewhat less strict in alcohol‐specific rules over time, and adolescent alcohol use increases over time, the specific rules parents set remain important in restraining the alcohol use of their adolescent offspring. Thus, parents should and can feel confident about their parenting capabilities, and they should maintain being strict to prevent their offspring from drinking.
The experiences of parents of children with severe autism in connection with their children’s anaesthetics, in the presence and absence of the perioperative dialogue: a hermeneutic study
Authors: Lindberg Susan , von Post Iréne , Eriksson Katie
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to obtain an understanding of what parents of children with severe autism experience in connection with their child’s anaesthetics, in the presence and absence of the perioperative dialogue. Twelve parents who had experi ence of their child receiving anaesthetics on one or more occasions took part in this study, in which anaesthesia care was organized as a perioperative dialogue. Data were collected by means of conversational interviews, and the text was interpreted using a hermeneutic approach. The hermeneutic text interpretation led to a new understanding based on the knowledge that in the absence of the perioperative dialogue, previous anaesthetics had meant the suffering of care by the following: a hopeless struggle, unspeakable suffering and a disgraceful scenario. However, continuity in the perioperative dialogue provided to be a way out of the suffering by being received by warm hands, being received by a known face and a subtle interplay between the child and nurse. Although health and well‐being may be unobtainable goals in this special context of care, the findings provided ample descriptions of the positive effects of the perioperative dialogue, which is all the more valuable when dealing with children who will need repeated anaesthetics in the future.
Language use in the Adult Attachment Interview: Evidence for attachment‐specific emotion regulation
Authors: BORELLI JESSICA L. , DAVID DARYN H. , RIFKIN‐GRABOI ANNE , SBARRA DAVID A. , MEHL MATTHIAS R. , MAYES LINDA C.
Published: February 2012

Adult attachment classification is traditionally based on qualitative coding of participants' discourse about their attachment history. Word count‐based analyses have proven useful for assessing emotional states from narrative. To expand the understanding of how language is used in emotion regulation processes related to attachment, the authors assess 102 college‐aged adults' language on the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI). Autonomous adults use more emotion words and, in particular, negative emotion words. Preoccupied adults use more anger words. Disorganized adults use more experientially connected language and more death/dying words, but also use more second‐person pronouns when discussing loss. Language use during the AAI explains variability in self‐reported emotional distress above and beyond attachment classifications. Results are discussed in terms of their relevance to emotion and attachment.
Microstructural and metamorphic evolution of a high‐pressure granitic orthogneiss during continental subduction (Orlica–Śnieżnik dome, Bohemian Massif)
Authors: CHOPIN F. , SCHULMANN K. , ŠTÍPSKÁ P. , MARTELAT J. E. , PITRA P. , LEXA O. , PETRI B.
Published: February 2012

A microstructural and metamorphic study of a naturally deformed medium‐ to high‐pressure granitic orthogneiss (Orlica–Śnieżnik dome, Bohemian Massif) provides evidence of behaviour of the felsic crust during progressive burial along a subduction‐type apparent thermal gradient (∼10 °C km−1). The granitic orthogneisses develops three distinct microstructural types, as follows: type I – augen orthogneiss, type II – banded orthogneiss and type III – mylonitic orthogneiss, each representing an evolutionary stage of a progressively deformed granite. Type I orthogneiss is composed of partially recrystallized K‐feldspar porphyroclasts surrounded by wide fronts of myrmekite, fully recrystallized quartz aggregates and interconnected monomineralic layers of recrystallized plagioclase. Compositional layering in the type II orthogneiss is defined by plagioclase‐ and K‐feldspar‐rich layers, both of which show an increasing proportion of interstitial minerals, as well as the deformation of recrystallized myrmekite fronts. Type III orthogneiss shows relicts of quartz and K‐feldspar ribbons preserved in a fine‐grained polymineralic matrix. All three types have the same assemblage (quartz + plagioclase + K‐feldspar + muscovite + biotite + garnet + sphene ± ilmenite), but show systematic variations in the composition of muscovite and garnet from types I to III. This is consistent with the equilibration of the three types at different positions along a progradeP−Tpath ranging from <15 kbar and <700 °C (type I orthogneiss) to 19–20 kbar and >700 °C (types II and III orthogneisses). The deformation types thus do not represent evolutionary stages of a highly partitioned deformation at constantP−Tconditions, but reflect progressive formation during the burial of the continental crust. The microstructures of the type I and type II orthogneisses result from the dislocation creep of quartz and K‐feldspar whereas a grain boundary sliding‐dominated diffusion creep regime is the characteristic of the type III orthogneiss. Strain weakening related to the transition from type I to type II microstructures was enhanced by the recrystallization of wide myrmekite fronts, and plagioclase and quartz, and further weakening and strain localization in type III orthogneiss occurred via grain boundary sliding‐enhanced diffusion creep. The potential role of incipient melting in strain localization is discussed.
Garnet crystal plasticity in the continental crust, new example from south Madagascar
Authors: MARTELAT J.‐E. , MALAMOUD K. , CORDIER P. , RANDRIANASOLO B. , SCHULMANN K. , LARDEAUX J.‐M.
Published: February 2012

Garnet (10 vol.%; pyrope contents 34–44 mol.%) hosted in quartzofeldspathic rocks within a large vertical shear zone of south Madagascar shows a strong grain‐size reduction (from a few cm to ∼300 μm). Electron back‐scattered diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscope imaging coupled with quantitative analysis of digitized images (PolyLX software) have been used in order to understand the deformation mechanisms associated with this grain‐size evolution. The garnet grain‐size reduction trend has been summarized in a typological evolution (from Type I to Type IV). Type I, the original porphyroblasts, form cm‐sized elongated grains that crystallized upon multiple nucleation and coalescence following biotite breakdown: biotite + sillimanite + quartz = garnet + alkali feldspar + rutile + melt. These large garnet grains contain quartz ribbons and sillimanite inclusions. Type I garnet is sheared along preferential planes (sillimanite layers, quartz ribbons and/or suitably oriented garnet crystallographic planes) producing highly elongated Type II garnet grains marked by a single crystallographic orientation. Further deformation leads to the development of a crystallographic misorientation, subgrains and new grains resulting in Type III garnet. Associated grain‐size reduction occurs via subgrain rotation recrystallization accompanied by fast diffusion‐assisted dislocation glide. This plastic deformation of garnet is associated with efficient recovery as shown by the very low dislocation densities (1010 m−3 or lower). The rounded Type III garnet experiences rigid body rotation in fine‐grained matrix. In the highly deformed samples, the deformation mechanisms in garnet are grain‐size‐ and shape‐dependent: dislocation creep is dominant for the few large grains left (>1 mm; Type II garnet), rigid body rotation is typical for the smaller rounded grains (300 μm or less; Type III garnet) whereas diffusion creep may affect more elliptic garnet (Type IV garnet). The P–T conditions of garnet plasticity in the continental crust (≥950 °C; 11 kbar) have been identified using two‐feldspar thermometry and GASP conventional barometry. The garnet microstructural and deformation mechanisms evolution, coupled with grain‐size decrease in a fine‐grained steady‐state microstructure of quartz, alkali feldspar and plagioclase, suggests a separate mechanical evolution of garnet with respect to felsic minerals within the shear zone.
Cutaneous Sinus Tract of Dental Origin in Children—A Report of 28 New Cases
Authors: Bodner Lipa , Manor Esther , Joshua Ben Zion , Barabas Jozsef , Szabo George
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Little is known about the characteristics of cutaneous sinus tract (CST) of dental origin in children. 28 cases of CST of dental origin in children were evaluated. Age, sex, site of skin lesion, duration until diagnosis, teeth involved, etiology, treatment, and outcome were recorded. The last dental care visit was also recorded. The mean age was 10.25 years (range 4–16). The male to female ratio was 1:1.74. The mandibular–submandibular area was the most common site of skin lesions. The mandibular first molar was the most involved tooth, followed by the mandibular incisor. Caries was the most common etiology. The mean duration of lesions until correct diagnosis was 6.5 months (range 0.3–12 mos). The treatment was root canal therapy or extraction. After appropriate dental treatment, CSTs resolve rapidly. Surgical revision of the scars were indicated in eight (29%) patients, to provide better cosmetic results. In these patients, the duration of lesions were longer. Preventive dental care, as indicated by last dental care visit, was poor. CST in children is different from that in adults in terms of sites of skin lesions, duration of lesions, and involved tooth and similar to that in adults in terms of etiology and treatment modality. Early treatment of the dental infection may cause healing of the cutaneous lesion spontaneously, without a scar.
Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidoses in Older North Americans
Authors: Dharmarajan Kumar , Maurer Mathew S.
Published: February 2012

The amyloidoses are a group of hereditary or acquired disorders caused by the extracellular deposition of insoluble protein fibrils that impair tissue structure and function. All amyloidoses result from protein misfolding, a common mechanism for disorders in older persons, including Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Abnormalities in the protein transthyretin (TTR), a serum transporter of thyroxine and retinol, is the most common cause of cardiac amyloidoses in elderly adults. Mutations in TTR can result in familial amyloidotic cardiomyopathy, and wild‐type TTR can result in senile cardiac amyloidosis. These underdiagnosed disorders are much more common than previously thought. The resulting restrictive cardiomyopathy can cause congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and advanced conduction system disease. Although historically difficult to make, the diagnosis of TTR cardiac amyloidosis has become easier in recent years with advances in cardiac imaging and more widespread use of genetic analysis. Although therapy has largely involved supportive medical care, avoidance of potentially toxic agents, and rarely organ transplantation, the near future brings the possibility of targeted pharmacotherapies designed to prevent TTR misfolding and amyloid deposition. Because these disease‐modifying agents are designed to prevent disease progression, it has become increasingly important that older persons with TTR amyloidosis be expeditiously identified and considered for enrollment in clinical registries and trials.
Strengthening the Experimenter’s Toolbox: Statistical Estimation of Internal Validity
Authors: Keele Luke , McConnaughy Corrine , White Ismail
Published: February 2012

Experiments have become an increasingly common tool for political science researchers over the last decade, particularly laboratory experiments performed on small convenience samples. We argue that the standard normal theory statistical paradigm used in political science fails to meet the needs of these experimenters and outline an alternative approach to statistical inference based on randomization of the treatment. The randomization inference approach not only provides direct estimation of the experimenter’s quantity of interest—the certainty of the causal inference about the observed units—but also helps to deal with other challenges of small samples. We offer an introduction to the logic of randomization inference, a brief overview of its technical details, and guidance for political science experimenters about making analytic choices within the randomization inference framework. Finally, we reanalyze data from two political science experiments using randomization tests to illustrate the inferential differences that choosing a randomization inference approach can make.
Anomalous Coronary Circulation: Left Anterior Descending and Left Circumflex Coronary Arteries Arising from the Right Sinus of Valsalva
Authors: Surana Sikander P. , Doddamani Sanjay , Swaminathan Arun , Mehta Mansi B. , Zeltser Roman , Vatsia Sheel K. , Makaryus Amgad N.
Published: February 2012

Approximately 1% of adults who undergo cardiac catheterization have coronary anomalies. Patients may present with chest pain, arrhythmias, presyncope, and sometimes sudden cardiac death. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is an excellent tool for identifying coronary artery anomalies and defining their course and relationship to the great vessels and surrounding structures; its value is incremental to conventional angiography. We present a rare case of a coronary anomaly involving three separate ostia at the right sinus of Valsalva for the left and right coronary vessels. (Echocardiography 2012;29:E102‐E104)
CME. Orthostatic Effects on Echocardiographic Measures of Ventricular Function
Authors: Rowland Thomas , Unnithan Viswanath , Barker Piers , Guerra Miriam , Roche Denise , Lindley Martin
Published: February 2012

Orthostatic‐induced alterations in Doppler echocardiographic measures of ventricular function have not been well‐defined. Identifying such changes may provide useful insights regarding the responses of these measures to variations in ventricular loading conditions. Standard assessment of mitral inflow velocity and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) of left ventricular longitudinal myocardial velocities was performed on 14 young males (mean age 17.9 ± 0.7 years) in the supine position and then 5 minutes after assuming a sitting position with legs dependent. Upon sitting, average values of stroke volume and cardiac output fell by 28% and 18%, respectively, while heart rate increased from 64 ± 10 to 73 ± 12 beats/min (+14%) and calculated systemic vascular resistance rose from 12.9 ± 2.2 to 16.4 ± 3.1 units (+27%). Mitral E peak velocity declined from 87 ± 16 to 64 ± 16 cm/sec, and average TDI‐E′ and TDI‐S both decreased (by −44% and −20%, respectively). When adjusted for orthostatic decreases in left ventricular end‐diastolic volume, the mean decrease in TDI‐E′ was reduced to −29 (P < 0.01), but no significant decline was observed in adjusted TDI‐S. Average E/E′ rose with sitting by 40% (P = 0.02). These findings suggest that (a) decreases in TDI measures when assuming the upright position reflect the reduction of left ventricular size; (b) orthostatic fall in TDI‐E′ is also related to smaller ventricular size but, in addition, to a nonspecified reduction in ventricular relaxation; and (c) values of E/E′ do not reflect alterations in ventricular preload, which occur during an orthostatic challenge.

(Echocardiography 2012;29:523‐527)
Comparison of the Left Atrial Appendage Flow Velocities between Patients with Dipper versus Nondipper Hypertension
Authors: Kumak Ferhat , Gungor Hasan
Published: February 2012

Objective: In this study, left atrial appendage (LAA) flow velocities of dipper and nondipper hypertensive patients were compared with normal subjects. Methods: Twenty‐three patients with nondipper hypertension (NDH), 25 patients with dipper hypertension (DH), and 25 control subjects with comparable age, gender, and body mass indices were enrolled in the study. A detailed history, physical examination, and routine laboratory tests were obtained on all participants. Standard transthoracic echocardiographic examinations were performed on each subject. In addition, LAAs of all patients were visualized using transesophageal echocardiography. LAA filling and ejection velocities were measured using pulsed‐wave Doppler with the sample volume placed in proximal third of the LAA. The mean LAA ejection velocity in patients with NDH (47.7 + 13.0 cm/sec) was found to be significantly lower relative to the DH (66.3 + 12.9 cm/sec) and the control group (81.7 + 8.0 cm/sec) (P < 0.001). The mean LAA filling velocity in patients with NDH (41.7 + 14.7 cm/sec) was also significantly lower relative to those observed in the DH 58.8 + 9.2 cm/sec) and the control group (67.2 + 7.9 cm/sec) (P<0.001). Conclusion: In NDH patients, LAA filling and ejection flow rates are decreased relative to DH patients and the control group. For patients with NDH detected using ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, more aggressive treatment approach should be considered. Maintenance of LAA function may prevent potential complications secondary to left atrial appendage dysfunction. (Echocardiography 2012;29:391‐396)
Three‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Analysis of Right Atrial Volume in Normal and Abnormal Hearts: Comparison of Biplane and Multiplane Methods
Authors: Quraini Dima , Pandian Natesa G. , Patel Ayan R.
Published: February 2012

Background: Although right atrial size has clinical and prognostic importance, few data exist regarding the optimal three‐dimensional echocardiography (3DE) method for assessing right atrial volume (RAV). While measuring RAV in multiple planes may improve the accuracy, it also increases analysis time. The purpose of this study was to determine the minimum number of planes required for optimal assessment of RAV, using eight‐plane 3DE measurements as a reference standard. Methods: 3DE was performed in 70 subjects (35 normal and 35 abnormal). 3DE RAV was obtained from three methods by tracing right atrial endocardial borders at ventricular end‐systole in two orthogonal planes (two‐plane), four equiangular planes (four‐plane), and eight equiangular planes (eight‐plane) in each subject. The time required for analysis was recorded for each method. Results: Based on eight‐plane RAV, mean RAV was 41±13 mL in the normal group, and 82±35 mL in the abnormal group. The average time for two‐plane, four‐plane, and eight‐plane analysis was 69 ± 29, 118 ± 29, and 203 ± 37 s, respectively (P < 0.001 for comparisons between all groups). Four‐plane approach had close agreement with eight‐plane (2.6% underestimation for total group), while two‐plane measurement underestimated RAV by an average of 19% for the total group, compared to eight‐plane. Conclusion: Four‐plane measurement of RAV shows good agreement with eight‐plane measurement, while reducing the time required for analysis. Compared to eight‐plane analysis, biplane measurement of RAV can result in underestimation of RAV, particularly in abnormal subjects with right atrial enlargement and remodeling.

(Echocardiography 2012;29:608‐613)
Dynamic Hysteresis and Scaling Behavior of Energy Density in Pb0.99Nb0.02[(Zr0.60Sn0.40)0.95Ti0.05]O3 Antiferroelectric Bulk Ceramics
Authors: Chen Xuefeng , Cao Fei , Zhang Hongling , Yu Gang , Wang Genshui , Dong Xianlin , Gu Yan , He Hongliang , Liu Yusheng
Published: February 2012

The evolution of dynamic hysteresis of lead zirconate titanate stannate antiferroelectric bulk ceramics at various frequencies (f) and field amplitudes (E0) has been investigated systematically. A series of asymmetrical minor loops were observed when the working fields were slightly lower than the forward switching field EAF. As E0 increased above EAF, symmetrical double loops appeared and their energy densities w against f and E0 were found to be fit the scaling behavior as w f−0.02(E0 − Ec)0.08, where Ec representing the threshold field is designated as EAF. The study is helpful to application of antiferroelectrics as energy‐storage capacitors.
Phase Stability of Cubic Pyrochlore Rare Earth Tantalate Pinning Additives in YBa2Cu3O7−δ Superconductor
Authors: Wee Sung Hun , Cantoni Claudia , Zuev Yuri L. , Specht Eliot D. , Goyal Amit
Published: February 2012

Phase stability of cubic‐pyrochlore‐structured RE3TaO7 (RTO, where RE = rare earth elements) pinning additives in YBa2Cu3O7−δ (YBCO) superconductor and the pinning properties influenced by RTO addition into YBCO films were investigated. RTO completely reacts with YBCO and is converted to cubic‐double‐perovskite‐structured Ba2RETaO6 (BRETO), a more thermodynamically stable tantalate phase within YBCO. In RTO‐doped YBCO films, BRETO self‐assembled nanocolumns align along the c‐axis of the film and play a major role in the improvement of flux pinning and Jc performance over wide magnetic field and angular ranges.
Weakening Forensic Science in Spain: From Expert Evidence to Documentary Evidence*
Authors: Lucena‐Molina Jose‐Juan , Pardo‐Iranzo Virginia , Gonzalez‐Rodriguez Joaquin
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  An amendment in 2002 to the Spanish Code of Criminal Procedure converted into documentary evidence the expert reports prepared by official laboratories aimed at determining the nature, weight, and purity of seized drugs. In most cases, experts are spared from appearance before the courts. This is likely to be extended to other forensic fields. After an overview of criminalistic identification in current forensic science, the objectivity and reliability concepts used by jurists and scientists are considered by comparing the paradigm of individualization with that of likelihood. Subsequently, a detailed critical study is made on the above‐mentioned Spanish legal reform, and a comparison is made with the decision on the Melendez‐Diaz v. Massachusetts case as ruled by the Supreme Court of the United States. Although the reform is in compliance with the Spanish Constitution, it is at odds with science, in particular regarding the logic underpinning the scientific evaluation of evidence.
Analysis of Enamel Rod End Patterns on Tooth Surface for Personal Identification—Ameloglyphics
Authors: Manjunath Krishnappa , Sivapathasundharam Balasundharam , Saraswathi Thillai R.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Ameloglyphics is the study of enamel rod end patterns on a tooth surface. Our aim was to study the in vivo analysis of enamel rod end patterns on tooth surfaces for personal identification. In this study, the maxillary left canine and 1st premolar of 30 men and 30 women were included. The cellulose acetate peel technique was used to record enamel rod endings on tooth surfaces. Photomicrographs of the acetate peel imprint were subjected to VeriFinger Standard SDK v5.0 software for obtaining enamel rod end patterns. All 120 enamel rod end patterns were subjected to visual analysis and biometric analysis. Biometric analysis revealed that the enamel rod end pattern is unique for each tooth in an individual. It shows both intra‐ and interindividual variation. Enamel rod end patterns were unique between the male and female subjects. Visual analysis showed that wavy branched subpattern was the predominant subpattern observed among examined teeth. Hence, ameloglyphics is a reliable technique for personal identification.
Spatio‐temporal variation in mating success of female bagworms
Authors: Rhainds Marc
Published: February 2012

The study investigated spatio‐temporal variation in the mating success of female bagworms, Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis Haworth (Lepidoptera: Psychidae), across a broad latitudinal range in Indiana, USA, between 2007 and 2009. A series of interconnected equations based on estimates of demographic parameters at different intervals was used to derive the punctual sex ratio and female mating success early and late in the season. Both the mating success of females and the relative abundance of bagworms declined with latitude, which provides indirect support to the mate encounter Allee hypothesis. However, the late emergence of females at northern locations combined with the consistently low mating success of late‐emerging females suggests that the impact of latitude on mating probability is indirectly mediated by emergence time. A variable level of protandry was observed each year, and the low ratio of males per female late in the season was associated with low female mating success. The reduced level of activity of males at temperatures below 18 °C may also account for the low mating probability of late‐emerging females. The weak, inconsistent effect of local variation in sex ratio on female mating success suggests that males commonly disperse from their natal patch, a behavior that may have evolved to reduce inbreeding in local populations of bagworms. Altogether, these results suggest that temporal variation in sex ratio has a greater impact on the mating success of female bagworms than spatial variation in sex ratio.
Effect of various pH values, ionic strength, and temperature on papain hydrolysis of salivary film
Authors: Yao Jiang‐Wu , Xiao Yin , Lin Feng
Published: February 2012

Yao J‐W, Xiao Y, Lin F. Effect of various pH values, ionic strength, and temperature on papain hydrolysis of salivary film.
 
Eur Oral Sci 2012; 120: 140–146. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

Stimulated human whole saliva (WS) was used to study the dynamics of papain hydrolysis at defined pH, ionic strength, and temperature with the view of reducing an acquired pellicle. A quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM‐D) was used to monitor the changes in frequency caused by enzyme hydrolysis of WS films, and the hydrolytic parameters were calculated using an empirical model. The morphological and conformational changes of the salivary films before and after enzymatic hydrolysis were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging and grazing‐angle Fourier transform infrared (GA‐FTIR ) spectra, respectively. The characteristics of papain hydrolysis of WS films were pH‐, ionic strength‐, and temperature‐dependent. The WS films were partially removed by the action of papain, resulting in thinner and smoother surfaces. The infrared data suggested that hydrolysis‐induced deformation did not occur on the remnants of salivary films. The processes of papain hydrolysis of WS films can be controlled by properly regulating pH, ionic strength, and temperature.
Explants of Intact Endometrium to Model Bovine Innate Immunity and Inflammation Ex Vivo
Authors: Borges Álan Maia , Healey Gareth David , Sheldon Iain Martin
Published: February 2012

Problem

Bacterial infections commonly cause bovine endometritis and infertility via innate immune pathways. However, mechanistic studies using isolated cells or chopped tissue may be compromised by the disruption of endometrial architecture and release of damage‐associated molecular patterns. So, this study aimed to establish an ex vivo model of intact bovine endometrium to study innate immunity and inflammation.

Method of study

Intact bovine endometrium explants were collected using a sterile 8‐mm punch biopsy and cultured ex vivo with bacteria or pathogen‐associated molecules. Interleukin accumulation was measured, and tissue viability was assessed by microscopy, TdT‐mediated biotin–dUTP nick‐end labelling and lactate dehydrogenase assay.

Results

Intact endometrium explants accumulated IL‐6, IL‐1β and IL‐8 in response to Gram‐negative or Gram‐positive bacteria, and their purified pathogen‐associated molecules; inflammatory responses were dependent on the stage of oestrous cycle. Explants of intact endometrium maintained viability and tissue architecture, and had lower basal accumulation of interleukins compared with explants using chopped endometrium.

Conclusion

This study established a tractable ex vivo model of intact endometrium to explore the mechanisms of immunity and inflammation in the bovine endometrium.
Graves' disease presenting with catatonia: a probable case of encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroid disease
Authors: Bharadwaj Balaji , Sugaparaneetharan Ayyanar , Rajkumar Ravi P.
Published: February 2012

Bharadwaj B, Sugaparaneetharan A, Rajkumar RP. Graves' disease presenting with catatonia: a probable case of encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroid disease.

Introduction: Encephalopathy associated with autoimmune thyroid disease (EAATD) is diagnosed when neuropsychiatric symptoms of acute or sub-acute onset occur along with clinical or subclinical autoimmune thyroid dysfunction. Supporting evidence includes the presence of anti-thyroid antibodies in the serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid. The thyroid hormone alteration is not sufficient to explain the neuropsychiatric manifestations. The most commonly described electroencephalographic abnormality in this condition is a generalised background slowing. Clinical descriptions of EAATD have focused mainly on neurological symptoms including seizures, loss of consciousness, myoclonus and cognitive symptoms.

Case: We present the case of a 48-year-old lady who presented with catatonia. Her clinical and laboratory features were suggestive of Graves' disease which was hitherto undiagnosed. Anti-thyroid antibodies were positive. Electroencephalogram showed a brief period of temporal delta activity. The findings are suggestive of EAATD. Differential diagnoses of metabolic derangements like electrolyte imbalance, hepatic and renal failure, neuroinfections and psychiatric conditions like acute psychosis were ruled out.

Discussion: Treatment involves a course of corticosteroids. Response to corticosteroids, however, is not essential for the diagnosis of EAATD as the patient may respond to symptomatic treatment alone as in our case. Outcomes reported in case series have been generally good as in our patient.

Conclusion: This report illustrates the need to keep a high index of suspicion for an organic aetiology in cases presenting with catatonia. A thorough neuropsychiatric evaluation is useful in such cases. In patients with severe neuropsychiatric manifestations associated with thyroid disease, an autoimmune thyroid disease should be considered as a possibility.
Antiallodynia and antihyperalgesia effects of ceftriaxone in treatment of chronic neuropathic pain in rats
Authors: Hajhashemi Valiollah , Hosseinzadeh Hossein , Amin Bahareh
Published: February 2012

Objective

Neuropathic pain is a chronic and disabling syndrome with complex pathogenesis. It has been suggested that the function of glutamate transporters (GLTs) has a major role in the development of neuropathic pain. This study was performed to evaluate various doses of ceftriaxone, a beta-lactam antibiotic, on the symptoms in the rat chronic constriction injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain. This drug has been recently introduced as a selective up-regulator and activator of GLT1.

Methods

Neuropathy was induced in adult male Wistar rats and animals were treated intraperitoneally with 100–400 mg/kg of ceftriaxone for seven consecutive days immediately after surgery. Gabapentin (100 mg/kg, i.p.) was used as a reference drug. von Frey filaments, acetone drop and radiant heat methods were used to assess mechanical allodynia, thermal allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, respectively.

Results

Ceftriaxone in the repeated doses for 7 days showed significant antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effects especially at a dose of 200 mg/kg twice a day.

Conclusion

The results suggest that ceftriaxone as a modulator of glutamate uptake could provide beneficial effects in the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain, especially allodynia that is less sensitive to the most available drugs.
Catholic Social Teaching and the Gospel
Authors: McLoughlin David
Published: February 2012

The documents that represent Catholic Social Teaching are primarily papal and clerical. Following the approach of Herbert McCabe that CST is not a body of doctrine but is a response to concrete social circumstances, this paper notes the absence of serious engagement with the Bible in CST and particularly the teaching of Jesus. Using two parables as paradigms, we can see that Jesus was using the social and economic circumstances of his day to provoke debate and an imaginative response that might lead his listeners towards the kingdom of God. In developing the current state of CST, the Church must draw on the practical wisdom of already existing Church groups and must collaborate with groups outside the Church.
The Myth of Rerum Novarum
Authors: Walsh Michael
Published: February 2012

It is often claimed that the encyclical Rerum Novarum of Leo XIII laid a foundation for the emergence of trades unions and was ‘the workers’ charter’. This is a myth. The origins of the encyclical and Catholic Social Teaching in the late nineteenth-century were entirely socially conservative. Rerum Novarum condemns socialism and its authors thought that the primary purpose of what the encyclical calls ‘associations’ was devotional, ‘confraternities of mutual support and religious observance’.
Liberation Theology and Catholic Social Teaching
Authors: Kirwan Michael
Published: February 2012

This article argues for a broad compatibility between the Theology of Liberation and Catholic Social Thought. It can be argued that both of these discourses have been eclipsed in the post-conciliar period by the attention given to sexual ethics rather than the ‘social question’. Two possibilities are put forward as to how these discourses may re-connect with contemporary political and economic debates. Firstly, the notions of the ‘State of Exception’ and the homo sacer (advanced by Giorgio Agamben) have opened up new space for theological reflection centred upon the victim. Secondly, the search for a post-Rawlsian account of global justice, such as we find in the work of Amartya Sen, offers a possible version of a political ‘project’, to which both Liberation Theology and Catholic Social Thought can contribute.
Making the Encyclicals Click: Catholic Social Teaching and Radical Traditions
Authors: Beck Ashley
Published: February 2012

The radical Catholic movement that takes its name from the Catholic Worker paper and the communities inspired by it has had an important influence on the life of the Church both in the United States, where it was founded, and elsewhere in the world. This paper looks at ways in which its distinctive theological vision and praxis can revive and focus the presentation and living-out of Catholic Social teaching in this country – particularly with regard to unconditional love for the poor, a commitment to pacifism, and a grounding of this work in Catholic sacramental and devotional life.
Catholic Social Teaching and Europe
Authors: Turner Frank
Published: February 2012

The paper describes the settings for an official dialogue between religious communities, including the Catholic Church, and the institutions of the European Union. It goes on to describe some important and necessary contributions that a Christian vision can make to the European project. Finally it considers how far certain styles (rather than content) of Catholic discourse can impede the reception of this vision, and so render effective dialogue more difficult.
An extended model for the repression of photosynthesis genes by the AppA/PpsR system in Rhodobacter sphaeroides
Authors: Pandey Rakesh , Flockerzi Dietrich , Hauser Marcus J. B. , Straube Ronny
Published: February 2012

Purple bacteria derive energy from aerobic respiration or photosynthesis depending on the availability of oxygen and light. Under aerobic conditions, photosynthesis genes are specifically repressed by the PpsR protein. In Rhodobacter sphaeroides, the repressive action of PpsR is antagonized by the blue‐light and redox‐sensitive flavoprotein AppA, which sequesters PpsR under anaerobic conditions into transcriptionally inactive complexes. However, under semi‐aerobic conditions, blue‐light excitation of AppA causes the AppA–PpsR complexes to dissociate, again leading to a repression of photosynthesis genes. We have recently developed a simple mathematical model suggesting that this phenotype arises from the formation of a maximum in the response curve of reduced PpsR at intermediate oxygen concentrations. However, this model focused mainly on the oxygen‐dependent interactions whereas light regulation was only implemented in a simplified manner. In the present study, we incorporate a more detailed mechanism for the light‐dependent interaction between AppA and PpsR, which now allows for a direct comparison with experiments. Specifically, we take into account that, upon blue–light excitation, AppA undergoes a conformational change, creating a long‐lived signalling state causing the dissociation of the AppA–PpsR complexes. The predictions of the extended model are found to be in good agreement with experimental results on the light‐dependent repression of photosynthesis genes under semi‐aerobic conditions. We also identify the potential kinetic and stoichiometric constraints that the interplay between light and redox regulation imposes on the functionality of the AppA/PpsR system, especially with respect to a possible bistable response.
Silver Co‐Firable Li2ZnTi3O8 Microwave Dielectric Ceramics with LZB Glass Additive and TiO2 Dopant
Authors: Chen Guohua , Hou Meizhen , Bao Yan , Yuan Changlai , Zhou Changrong , Xu Huarui
Published: February 2012

New dielectric ceramics are prepared by the conventional solid‐state ceramic route. Effects of LZB glass on sintering, phase purity, microstructure, and dielectric properties of Li2ZnTi3O8 ceramics have been investigated. Adding LZB lowers sintering temperature from 1050°C to 875°C, and does not induce much degradation of dielectric properties. The 1.0 wt% LZB glass‐added ceramic has better properties of εr = 23.9, Q × f = 31,608 GHz, τf = −14.3 ppm/°C. Additions of TiO2 markedly improve microwave properties. Typically, the Li2ZnTi3O8 + 1 wt%LZB + 3.5 wt%TiO2 sintered at 900°C shows εr = 26.1, Q × f = 45,168 GHz, τf = −4.1 ppm/°C. Compatibility with Ag electrode indicates that this material may be applied to LTCC devices.
Biodiversity Fetishism and Biotechnology Promises in Brazil: From Policy Contradictions to Legal Adjustments
Authors: Filoche Geoffroy
Published: February 2012

This article retraces the development of the Brazilian legal framework with regard to access and benefit sharing and the protection by patent of biotechnological innovations. It demonstrates that 20 years on from the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity, Brazil no longer has the same attitude or the same expectations with regard to its genetic resources. The control of the State over access procedures and restrictive regimes in terms of patents are increasingly out of step with the concerns of national researchers and companies alike, and are the target of both criticisms and reforms. The scientific community is seeking to acquire prerogatives for managing genetic heritage, while the State is seeking to strengthen the national biotechnology sector. How is the legal environment adjusting to new and sometimes contradictory issues? What is the new interplay between public and private rights when it comes to genetic resources and natural‐based products? To what extent are “commons” systems emerging—both in terms of accessing biodiversity and in terms of protecting innovations?