bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inactivation of Ribosomal Protein Genes in Bacillus subtilis Reveals Importance of Each Ribosomal Protein for Cell Proliferation and Cell Differentiation
Authors: Akanuma Genki , Nanamiya Hideaki , Natori Yousuke , Yano Koichi , Suzuki Shota , Omata Shuya , Ishizuka Morio , Sekine Yasuhiko , Kawamura Fujio
Published: September 2012

Among the 57 genes that encode ribosomal proteins in the genome of
Bacillus subtilis
, a Gram-positive bacterium, 50 genes were targeted by systematic inactivation. Individual deletion mutants of 16 ribosomal proteins (L1, L9, L15, L22, L23, L28, L29, L32, L33.1, L33.2, L34, L35, L36, S6, S20, and S21) were obtained successfully. In conjunction with previous reports, 22 ribosomal proteins have been shown to be nonessential in
B. subtilis
, at least for cell proliferation. Although several mutants that harbored a deletion of a ribosomal protein gene did not show any significant differences in any of the phenotypes that were tested, various mutants showed a reduced growth rate and reduced levels of 70S ribosomes compared with the wild type. In addition, severe defects in the sporulation frequency of the Δ
rplA
(L1) mutant and the motility of the Δ
rpsU
(S21) mutant were observed. These data provide the first evidence in
B. subtilis
that L1 and S21 are required for the progression of cellular differentiation.
Chest physiotherapy in paediatric patients hospitalised with community-acquired pneumonia: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Lukrafka Janice Luisa , Fuchs Sandra C , Fischer Gilberto Bueno , Flores José A , Fachel Jandira M , Castro-Rodriguez Jose A
Published: September 2012

Background

Chest physiotherapy has been used to treat children hospitalised with pneumonia with no clear scientific evidence to support a beneficial effect. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the efficacy of chest physiotherapy as an adjuvant treatment in children hospitalised with acute community-acquired pneumonia.

Methods

Children (aged 1–12 years) with a clinical and confirmed radiological diagnosis of pneumonia sequentially admitted to a tertiary children hospital were eligible for this study. Participants were randomly selected to receive a standardised respiratory physiotherapy (positioning, thoracic vibration, thoracic compression, positive expiratory pressure, breathing exercises and forced exhalation with the glottis open or ‘huffing’) three times daily in the ‘intervention group’ or a non-mandatory request to breathe deeply, expectorate the sputum and maintain a lateral body position once a day in the ‘control group’. The primary outcomes were reduction in respiratory rate and severity score (respiratory rate, recession, fever, oxygen saturation and chest x-ray) from baseline to discharge. Secondary outcome was duration of hospitalisation.

Results

In all, 72 patients were randomly allocated to the intervention (n=35) or control (n=37) groups. There were no differences at admission on severity of pneumonia between groups. Respiratory rate and severity score significant decreased between admission to discharge within each group; however, there were no differences when comparing groups. Also, there was no significant difference in duration of hospitalisation between the control and intervention groups (6 vs 8 days, p=0.11, respectively).

Conclusions

This clinical trial suggests that, in children hospitalised with moderate community-acquired pneumonia, chest physiotherapy did not have clinical benefits in comparison to control group.
Complete right lung agenesis presenting with bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis
Authors: Kushwaha Ram Avadh Singh , Ranganath T G , Garg Rajiv , Anand Shipra
Published: September 2012

A 26 year-old lady presented with episodic breathlessness, chest tightness, recurrent nasal obstruction and excessive sneezing, mainly during change of season along with opacity of the right hemithorax on chest x-ray. Further detailed work-up including spirometry, high-resolution CT scan of the thorax and fibre-optic bronchoscopy confirmed complete right lung agenesis in patients with bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis. Complete control of symptoms was achieved with formeterol 6 μg and mometasone 200 μg (via dry powder inhaler) and intranasal fluticasone 50 μg (nasal spray) 2 puffs twice daily and oral montelukast 10 mg with levocetirizine 5 mg once daily.
Cardiac tamponade as the first manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus in children: Table 1
Authors: Arabi Mariam Toufic , Malek Eliane Malek , Fares Mohamad Haissam , Itani Mohamad Hassan
Published: September 2012

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a serious chronic autoimmune disease with intense inflammatory response and damage in many target organs including joints, skin, kidneys, heart and nervous system. Cardiac tamponade is extremely rare as a cardinal presentation of SLE in children with only a few cases reported in the literature. We report two cases of a 9-year-old boy and an 11-year-old girl presenting with acute cardiac tamponade and later recognition of elevated anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) titre. We also present a literature review about similar cases in children and we stress on the importance of screening all cases of acute cardiac tamponade in children with antinuclear and anti-dsDNA antibodies to avoid any delay in SLE diagnosis and treatment.
Retrospective study of patients with acute pancreatitis: is serum amylase still required?
Authors: Gomez Dhanwant , Addison Alfred , De Rosa Antonella , Brooks Adam , Cameron Iain C
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To assess the role of serum amylase and lipase in the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. Secondary aims were to perform a cost analysis of these enzyme assays in patients admitted to the surgical admissions unit.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Secondary care.

Participants

Patients admitted with pancreatitis to the acute surgical admissions unit from January to December 2010 were included in the study.

Methods

Data collated included demographics, laboratory results and aetiology. The cost of measuring a single enzyme assay was £0.69 and both assays were £0.99.

Results

Of the 151 patients included, 117 patients had acute pancreatitis with gallstones (n=51) as the most common cause. The majority of patients with acute pancreatitis had raised levels of both amylase and lipase. Raised lipase levels only were observed in additional 12% and 23% of patients with gallstone-induced and alcohol-induced pancreatitis, respectively. Overall, raised lipase levels were seen in between 95% and 100% of patients depending on aetiology. Sensitivity and specificity of lipase in the diagnosis of acute pancreatitis was 96.6% and 99.4%, respectively. In contrast, the sensitivity and specificity of amylase in diagnosing acute pancreatitis were 78.6% and 99.1%, respectively. Single lipase assay in all patients presenting with abdominal pain to the surgical admission unit would result in a potential saving of £893.70/year.

Conclusions

Determining serum lipase level alone is sufficient to diagnose acute pancreatitis and substantial savings can be made if measured alone.
‘Matching Michigan’: a 2-year stepped interventional programme to minimise central venous catheter-blood stream infections in intensive care units in England
Authors: Bion Julian , Richardson Annette , Hibbert Peter , Beer Jeanette , Abrusci Tracy , McCutcheon Martin , Cassidy Jane , Eddleston Jane , Gunning Kevin , Bellingan Geoff , Patten Mark , Harrison David
Published: September 2012

Background

Bloodstream infections from central venous catheters (CVC-BSIs) increase morbidity and costs in intensive care units (ICUs). Substantial reductions in CVC-BSI rates have been reported using a combination of technical and non-technical interventions.

Methods

We conducted a 2-year, four-cluster, stepped non-randomised study of technical and non-technical (behavioural) interventions to prevent CVC-BSIs in adult and paediatric ICUs in England. Random-effects Poisson regression modelling was used to compare infection rates. A sample of ICUs participated in data verification.

Results

Of 223 ICUs in England, 215 (196 adult, 19 paediatric) submitted data on 2479 of 2787 possible months and 147 (66%) provided complete data. The exposure rate was 438 887 (404 252 adult and 34 635 paediatric) CVC-patient days. Over 20 months, 1092 CVC-BSIs were reported. Of these, 884 (81%) were ICU acquired. For adult ICUs, the mean CVC-BSI rate decreased over 20 months from 3.7 in the first cluster to 1.48 CVC-BSIs/1000 CVC-patient days (p<0.0001) for all clusters combined, and for paediatric ICUs from 5.65 to 2.89 (p=0.625). The trend for infection rate reduction did not accelerate following interventions training. CVC utilisation rates remained stable. Pre-ICU infections declined in parallel with ICU-acquired infections. Criterion-referenced case note review showed high agreement between adjudicators (κ 0.706) but wide variation in blood culture sampling rates and CVC utilisation. Generic infection control practices varied widely.

Conclusions

The marked reduction in CVC-BSI rates in English ICUs found in this study is likely part of a wider secular trend for a system-wide improvement in healthcare-associated infections. Opportunities exist for greater harmonisation of infection control practices. Future studies should investigate causal mechanisms and contextual factors influencing the impact of interventions directed at improving patient care.
Measuring patients’ experiences with palliative care: the Consumer Quality Index Palliative Care
Authors: Claessen Susanne J J , Francke Anneke L , Sixma Herman J , de Veer Anke J E , Deliens Luc
Published: September 2012

Background

The Consumer Quality Index Palliative Care (CQ-index PC) is a structured questionnaire for measuring the quality of palliative care from the perspective of care users. CQ-indices assess which care aspects need quality improvement by relating answers about actual care experiences to answers about the importance of certain aspects of care.

Methods

To improve the chance that the new instrument has good content validity, a literature study and individual and group discussions were performed, and a steering committee was consulted to establish the instrument's face and content validity. The questionnaire was administered to patients with a life expectancy of 6 months or less and/or who were receiving palliative treatment. Descriptive analyses were carried out on the items about actual care experiences and the importance of care aspects, and on ‘need for improvement’ scores.

Results

15 care organisations participated. 133 patients met the inclusion criteria (net response n=85). Patients considered the following aspects the most important: ‘offering help in good time in acute situations’, ‘caregivers having the necessary expertise’ and ‘caregivers taking the patient seriously’. The three care aspects with the highest ‘need for improvement’ scores were: ‘support when the patient feels depressed’, ‘support when the patient is anxious’ and ‘support when the patient has shortness of breath’.

Conclusions

The CQ-index PC provides opportunities for care organisations to assess which care aspects have the highest priority for quality improvement within their organisation. Further research is needed to assess whether the instrument has enough discriminative power to assess differences between organisations.
Street conflict mediation to prevent youth violence: Conflict characteristics and outcomes
Authors: Whitehill Jennifer M , Webster Daniel W , Vernick Jon S
Published: September 2012

Background

Mediation of potentially violent conflicts is a key component of CeaseFire, an effective gun violence-prevention programme.

Objective

To describe conflicts mediated by outreach workers (OW) in Baltimore's CeaseFire replication, examine neighbourhood variation, and measure associations between conflict risk factors and successful nonviolent resolution.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using records for 158 conflicts mediated between 2007 and 2009. Involvement of youth, gangs, retaliation, weapons and other risk factors were described. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used for data-reduction purposes before the relationship between conflict risk components and mediation success was assessed with multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Most conflicts involved 2–3 individuals. Youth, persons with a history of violence, gang members and weapons were commonly present. OWs reported immediate, nonviolent resolution for 65% of mediated conflicts; an additional 23% were at least temporarily resolved without violence. PCA identified four dimensions of conflict risk: the risk-level of individuals involved; whether the incident was related to retaliation; the number of people involved; and shooting likelihood. However, these factors were not related to the OW's ability to resolve the conflict. Neighbourhoods with programme-associated reductions in homicides mediated more gang-related conflicts; neighbourhoods without programme-related homicide reductions encountered more retaliatory conflicts and more weapons.
Diagnostic and prognostic impact of desmocollins in human lung cancer
Authors: Cui Tiantian , Chen Yuan , Yang Linlin , Mireskandari Masoud , Knösel Thomas , Zhang Qing , Kohler Lukas Herbert , Kunze Almut , Presselt Norbert , Petersen Iver
Published: September 2012

Objective

Desmosomes are intercellular junctions that confer strong cell–cell adhesion. Two main members of desmosomal cadherins, desmogleins (DSGs) and desmocollins (DSCs), are involved in carcinogenesis. However, their role in human lung cancer remained elusive. The aims of this study were to analyse the expression of DSCs and to evaluate their clinical application in lung cancer.

Methods

The expression of DSC1-3 mRNAs was analysed by RT-PCR. The methylation status of DSCs was analysed by demethylation tests and bisulphite sequencing. Protein expression of DSCs in primary lung cancer was evaluated by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays.

Results

DSC1-3 mRNAs were downregulated in lung cancer cells, and the expression was restored in four out of seven cell lines, respectively, after 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine treatment. A heterogeneous methylation pattern was detected by bisulphite sequencing in exon 1 of DSC2 and DSC3. In 199 patients with primary lung cancer, we found that lower protein expression of DSC1 was significantly linked to worse tumour differentiation (p=0.017), DSC3 proteins were more expressed in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) compared with adenocarcinoma (ADC) (p<0.001), and reduced expression of DSC1 and DSC3 was significantly correlated with poor clinical outcome (p=0.045 and p=0.007, respectively).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that downregulation of DSC1-3 may be explained by DNA methylation, DSC1 may be a marker for tumour differentiation, DSC3 has a potential diagnostic value in subclassification of non-small cell lung carcinoma into SCC and ADC, and furthermore, DSC1 and DSC3 may be prognostic markers for lung cancer.
Abnormalities of serum-free light chain in patients with primary antibody deficiency in the absence of B lymphocyte clonality
Authors: Unsworth David Joseph , Wallage Michael John , Sarkar Esha , Lock Robert John
Published: September 2012

Aims

A review of practice to determine whether serum-free light chain (SFLC) assays are helpful in detecting underlying clonal B-cell disorders or amyloidosis in patients with primary antibody deficiency (PAD) and recurrent infection.

Methods

SFLC were assayed by nephelometry (BN2 nephelometer, Siemens; FREELITE assay, Binding Site). We reviewed SFLC test results recorded in our regional laboratory over a 4-year time period; 20 adults with PAD were identified as having been tested on at least two occasions.

Results

Of 20 patients, 4 with PAD had abnormal serum-free kappa/lambda (K/L) ratios but no evidence of B-cell clonality. We also found extremely low levels of kappa and or lambda (below the limits of reliable detection) in 19/20 PAD cases (mostly common variable immunodeficiency), such that in many, ratios were not calculable.

Conclusions

The data suggest that the abnormal ratios are generated by an inability to produce and/or secrete SFLCs, particularly kappa FLC. In this small initial study, we seek to highlight PAD cases where a suspicious K/L ratio, typically with very low absolute quantities of SFLCs, most likely points to B-cell dysfunction, rather than to B lymphocyte clonality.
Immunohistochemistry in the era of personalised medicine
Authors: McCourt Clare Margaret , Boyle David , James Jacqueline , Salto-Tellez Manuel
Published: September 2012

Background

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) plays a central role in the histopathological classification of diseases, including cancer. More recently, the importance of immunohistochemical staining is increasing. IHC usage in diagnostics is invaluable; however, the genetic and therapeutic significance of biomarker immunostaining has become equally relevant.

Content

In this article, we would like to analyse the three distinct roles of IHC and review their individual impacts on modern diagnostic pathology: (1) diagnostic IHC; (2) genetic IHC and (3) therapeutic IHC.

Thus, we will characterise the different analytical processes that are required in the three approaches to IHC usage stated above, as well as the clinical significance and overall importance in patient management. This will allow us to hypothesise on the most appropriate laboratory environment and detection methods for the future.
The role and status of evidence and innovation in the healthy towns programme in England: a qualitative stakeholder interview study
Authors: Goodwin Denise May , Cummins Steven , Sautkina Elena , Ogilvie David , Petticrew Mark , Jones Andy , Wheeler Katy , White Martin
Published: September 2012

Background

In 2008, the Healthy Community Challenge Fund commissioned nine ‘healthy towns’ in England to implement and evaluate community-based environmental interventions to prevent obesity. This paper examines the role of evidence in informing intervention development, innovation and the potential for programmes to contribute to the evidence base on the effectiveness of interventions that tackle population obesity.

Method

Twenty qualitative interviews with local programme stakeholders and national policy actors were conducted. Interview transcripts were coded and thematically analysed. Initial analyses were guided by research questions regarding the nature and role of evidence in the development and implementation of the healthy towns programme and the capacity for evidence generation to inform future intervention design, policy and practice.

Findings

Stakeholders relied on local anecdotal and observational evidence to guide programme development. While the programme was considered an opportunity to trial new and innovative approaches, the requirement to predict likely health impacts and adopt evidence-based practice was viewed contradictory to this aim. Stakeholders believed there were missed opportunities to add to the existing empirical evidence base due to a lack of clarity and planning, particularly around timing, in local and national evaluations.

Conclusions

A strong emphasis on relying on existing evidence-based practice and producing positive impacts and outcomes may have impeded the opportunity to implement truly innovative programmes because of fear of failure. Building more time for development, implementation and evaluation into future initiatives would maximise the use and generation of robust and relevant evidence for public health policy and practice.
Stent assisted embolization of 64 anterior communicating artery aneurysms
Authors: Johnson Andrew Kelly , Munich Stephan A , Heiferman Daniel M , Lopes Demetrius Klee
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Anterior communicating artery (ACoA) aneurysms comprised over half of the ruptured aneurysms in the International Subarachnoid Trial. Endovascular treatment of ACoA aneurysms has provided good results, but until the introduction of intracranial stents, many ACoA aneurysms could not be treated without craniotomy. The current study analyzes the results of ACoA aneurysm treatment using stent assisted embolization.

Methods

64 patients with ACoA aneurysms underwent stent assisted aneurysm repair. Four were treated in the acute rupture phase and a fifth ruptured aneurysm was stented in a second procedure after initial coiling. Five aneurysms were 10 mm or more in greatest diameter. Follow-up angiography was performed 6 months after treatment; then, patients were followed with annual MR angiography. Technical, clinical, and long term radiographic results were analyzed.

Results

Stents were successfully deployed in each case. One patient was eventually treated with a three stent construct and died of perioperative hemorrhage. One major stroke occurred during a separate procedure when a patient was taken off antiplatelet medications. These cases were the only aneurysm related morbidity (1.6%) and mortality (1.6%) events during the entire follow-up period. After stent assisted embolization, 32 (50.0%) ACoA aneurysms were completely occluded, 15 (23.4%) had residual neck, and 17 (26.6%) had residual filling. At first radiographic follow-up, 39 of 55 (70.9%) showed complete occlusion. Three (5.5%) total aneurysms required retreatment.

Conclusions

Stent assisted aneurysm treatment was a safe and effective option in this series of ACoA aneurysms with maximum diameter less than 15 mm. ACoA aneurysms may be more likely to recur regardless of treatment option, but stent assisted embolization may be durable after stable initial radiographic follow-up.
Management options for visual pathway compression from optic gliomas
Authors: Bessero Anne-Caroline , Fraser Clare , Acheson James , Davagnanam Indran
Published: September 2012

Optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) manifest with neuro-ophthalmic symptoms and signs; however, presentation can vary as their location and growth patterns are highly variable. An exophytic expansion of an OPG within the intracranial cavity can cause compression on neurological structures, warranting intervention. However, management guidelines are limited and the treatment itself may also cause neuro-ophthalmic complications. Therefore, clinical decision-making must include input from a multidisciplinary team that includes ophthalmology, neurosurgery, radiation oncology and neuroradiology.
Prevalence of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections and factors associated with syphilis among female sex workers in Panama
Authors: Hakre Shilpa , Arteaga Griselda , Núñez Aurelio E , Bautista Christian T , Bolen Aimee , Villarroel Maria , Peel Sheila A , Paz-Bailey Gabriela , Scott Paul T , Pascale Juan M ,   the Panama HIV EPI Group
Published: September 2012

Objectives

Biological and behavioural surveillance of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among populations at highest risk have been used to monitor trends in prevalence and in risk behaviours. Sex work in Panama is regulated through registration with the Social Hygiene Programme, Ministry of Health. We estimated prevalence of HIV and STIs, and factors associated with active syphilis among female sex workers (FSWs).

Methods

A cross-sectional study using venue-based, time-space sampling was conducted among FSWs in Panama from 2009 to 2010. FSWs were interviewed about sociodemographic characteristics, sexual risk behaviour, health history and drug use using an anonymous structured questionnaire. Blood was collected for serological testing of HIV and other STIs. Factors associated with active syphilis were studied using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The overall HIV-1 prevalence of 0.7% varied by FSW category; 1.6% in 379 unregistered, and 0.2% in 620 registered FSWs. Overall prevalence (and 95% CI) of STIs were: syphilis antibody, 3.8% (2.7% to 5.2%); herpes simplex virus type 2 antibody (anti-HSV-2), 74.2% (71.4% to 76.9%); hepatitis B surface antigen, 0.6% (0.2% to 1.3%); hepatitis B core antibody, 8.7% (7.0% to 10.6%); and hepatitis C antibody, 0.2% (0.0% to 0.7%). In multivariate analysis, registration (adjusted OR (AOR)=0.35; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.74), having a history of STI (AOR=2.37; 95% CI 1.01 to 5.58), forced sex (AOR=2.47; 95% CI 1.11 to 5.48), and anti-HSV-2 (AOR=10.05; 95% CI 1.36 to 74.38) were associated with active syphilis.

Conclusions

Although HIV prevalence is low among FSWs in Panama, unregistered FSWs bear a higher burden of HIV and STIs than registered FSWs. Programmes aimed at overcoming obstacles to registration, and HIV, STI and harm reduction among unregistered FSWs is warranted to prevent HIV transmission, and to improve their sexual and reproductive health.
A pilot study of the feasibility of a vaginal washing cessation intervention among Kenyan female sex workers
Authors: Masese Linnet , McClelland R Scott , Gitau Ruth , Wanje George , Shafi Juma , Kashonga Francis , Ndinya-Achola Jeckoniah O , Lester Richard , Richardson Barbra A , Kurth Ann
Published: September 2012

Background

Intravaginal practices including vaginal washing have been associated with HIV-1 acquisition. This association may be mediated by mucosal disruption, changes in vaginal flora or genital tract inflammatory responses. Reducing vaginal washing could lower women's risk of HIV-1 acquisition.

Methods

23 HIV-1 seronegative women who reported current vaginal washing were recruited from a prospective cohort study of high-risk women in Mombasa, Kenya. A theoretical framework including information–motivation–behavioural skills and harm reduction was implemented to encourage participants to reduce or eliminate vaginal washing. At baseline and after 1 month, we evaluated vaginal epithelial lesions by colposcopy, vaginal microbiota by Nugent's criteria and vaginal cytokine milieu using ELISA on cervicovaginal lavage specimens.

Results

The most commonly reported vaginal washing substance was soap with water (N=14, 60.9%). The median frequency of vaginal washing was 7 (IQR 7–14) times per week. After 1 month, all participants reported cessation of vaginal washing (p=0.01). The probability of detecting cervicovaginal epithelial lesions was lower (OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.20 to 1.16; p=0.10) and the likelihood of detectingLactobacillusby culture was higher (OR 3.71, 95% CI 0.73 to 18.76, p=0.11) compared with baseline, although these results were not statistically significant. There was no change in the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis. Most cytokine levels were reduced, but these changes were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

A theory-based intervention appeared to have a positive effect in reducing vaginal washing over 1 month. Larger studies with longer follow-up are important to further characterise the effects of vaginal washing cessation on biological markers.
Condom effectiveness against non-viral sexually transmitted infections: a prospective study using electronic daily diaries
Authors: Crosby Richard A , Charnigo Richard A , Weathers Chandra , Caliendo Angela M , Shrier Lydia A
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To prospectively evaluate the protective value of consistent and correct use of latex condoms against the acquisition ofChlamydia trachomatis,Neisseria gonorrhoeaeandTrichomonas vaginalis.

Methods

Patients (N=929) attending clinics that treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were prospectively followed for up to 6 months. Urine STI nucleic acid amplification testing was performed at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. Participants were instructed to respond to daily prompts from a handheld device by completing a report for each penile-vaginal sexual intercourse event. Generalised estimating equation models examined associations of consistent as well as consistent and correct condom use with STI incidence over 3-month intervals.

Results

Consistent condom use was not significantly associated with STI incidence (Estimated OR (EOR)=0.75; 95% CI (CI) 0.43 to 1.30; p=0.31). However, individuals who used condoms both correctly and consistently were estimated to have 59% lower odds of acquiring an STI (EOR=0.41; 95% CI  0.19 to 0.90; p=.026), compared to those who did not.

Conclusions

The correct as well as the consistent use of condoms greatly reduces the odds of non-viral STI acquisition.
Is nursing a kid detrimental to nonimmunological compatibility to contact-transmitted foreign bodies in female Iberian ibex (Capra pyrenaica)?
Authors: Sarasa Mathieu , Pérez Jesús M. , Granados José-Enrique , Soriguer Ramón C.
Published: September 2012

Reproductive costs may increase the susceptibility of breeding females to parasites. Compatibility may be modulated by immunity and nonimmunological factors. However, experimental tests attempting to unravel the role of nonimmunological compatibility to parasites are scarce. We experimentally infected breeding and nonbreeding females with pseudoectoparasites (PEPs) to analyse how nursing a kid affects neatness in the Iberian ibex ( Capra pyrenaica Schinz, 1838). Our results revealed that nursing a kid does not seem detrimental to neatness in female Iberian ibex in terms of nonimmunological compatibility to contact-transmitted foreign bodies. Consequently, it seems that increased susceptibility of breeding females to contact-transmitted parasites may be mainly mediated by increased exposure or increased immunological compatibility to parasites.
LABORATORY FRAME ANALYSIS OF e+e-→μ+μ- SCATTERING IN THE NONCOMMUTATIVE STANDARD MODEL AT LINEAR COLLIDER
Authors: DAS PRASANTA KUMAR , PRAKASH ABHISHODH
Published: September 2012

We study the muon pair production e+e-→μ+μ- in the framework of the nonminimal noncommutative standard model (NCSM) to the second-order of the noncommutative (NC) parameter Θμν at linear collider. The [Formula: see text] momentum-dependent NC interaction significantly modifies the cross-section and angular distributions which are different from the standard model. After including the effects of earth's rotation we analyze the time-averaged and time-dependent observables in detail. The time-averaged azimuthal distribution of the cross-section shows significant departure from the standard model which can be tested at the upcoming linear collider. We find strong dependence of total cross-section (time-averaged) and their distributions on the orientation and the magnitude of the NC electric vector (ΘE). Assuming that the future linear collider data will differ from the standard model result by 5%, we obtain Λ≥615 GeV and Λ≥946 GeV corresponding to the machine energy E com = 1000 GeV and 1500 GeV.
M-ADAPTATION METHOD FOR ACOUSTIC WAVE EQUATION ON SQUARE MESHES
Authors: GYRYA VITALIY , LIPNIKOV KONSTANTIN
Published: September 2012

A novel adaptive strategy, dubbed m-adaptation, is developed for solving the acoustic wave equation (in the time domain) on square meshes. The finite element, the finite difference and a few other more recent methods are shown to be particular members of the mimetic family. Analysis of the parametric family of mimetic discretization methods is performed to find the optimal member that eliminates the numerical dispersion at the fourth-order (as in Ref. 1) and the numerical anisotropy at the sixth-order (higher than in Ref. 1). The stability condition for the optimal method is derived that turns out to be comparable to the classical Courant condition. The numerical experiments show that the new approach is consistently better than the classical methods for reducing a long-time integration error.
Exposed Positive Maps in M4(ℂ)
Authors: Chruściński Dariusz , Sarbicki Gniewomir
Published: September 2012

It is shown that the family of so-called Breuer-Hall maps in M4(ℂ) possesses strong spanning property and hence they are exposed in the convex cone of positive maps in M4(ℂ).
Geometry of Entanglement Witnesses Parametrized by SO(3) Group
Authors: Chruściński Dariusz , Wudarski Filip A.
Published: September 2012

We characterize a set of positive maps in matrix algebra of 4 × 4 complex matrices. Equivalently, we provide a subset of entanglement witnesses in ℂ4⊗ℂ4 parametrized by the rotation group SO (3). Interestingly, these maps/witnesses define two intersecting convex cones in the 3-dimensional parameter space. The existence of two cones is related to the topological structure of the underlying orthogonal group. We perform detailed analysis of the corresponding geometric structure.
Large Deviation Strategy for Inverse Problem II
Authors: Ojima Izumi , Okamura Kazuya
Published: September 2012

In the earlier paper [1], we have proposed the large deviation strategy (LDS) and discussed its first level. By efficient use of the central measure, we will establish a quantum version of Sanov's theorem, the Bayesian escort predictive state and the widely applicable information criteria for quantum states in LDS second level. Finally, these results are re-examined in the context of quantum estimation theory, and organized as quantum model selection, i.e., a quantum version of model selection.
HOLONOMY TRANSFORMATION IN THE LENSE-THIRRING SPACETIME
Authors: GOMES DE ASSIS J. , BEZERRA V. B.
Published: September 2012

We compute the holonomy transformation for circles on the equatorial plane in the Lense-Thirring spacetime taking into account the appropriate modification of this quantity due to the rotation of the source. In parallel transporting vectors we examine how the rotation affects the holonomy transformation.
AN INFINITE NUMBER OF CLOSED FLRW UNIVERSES FOR ANY VALUE OF THE SPATIAL CURVATURE
Authors: FAGUNDES HELIO V.
Published: September 2012

The Friedman-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker cosmological models are based on the assumptions of large-scale homogeneity and isotropy of the distribution of matter and energy. They are usually taken to have spatial sections that are simply connected; they have finite volume in the positive curvature case, and infinite volume in the null and negative curvature ones. I want to call the attention to the existence of an infinite number of models, which are based on these same metrics, but have compact, finite volume, multiply connected spatial sections. Some observational implications are briefly mentioned.
ON THE TOPOLOGICAL NATURE OF THE COSMOLOGICAL CONSTANT
Authors: MAIA M. D.
Published: September 2012

It is shown that topological changes in space-time are necessary to make General Relativity compatible with the Newtonian limit and to solve the hierarchy of the fundamental interactions. We detail how topology and topological changes appear in General Relativity and how it leaves an observable footprint in space-time. In cosmology we show that such topological observable is the cosmic radiation produced by the acceleration of the universe. The cosmological constant is a very particular case which occurs when the expansion of the universe into the vacuum occurs only in the direction of the cosmic time flow.
THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF THE SUN'S MAGNETISM
Authors: DO NASCIMENTO J. D.
Published: September 2012

Magnetic field in the Sun is produced through the dynamo process in a way that is not yet completely understood. The question whether the Sun is peculiar as compared with other stars has been the subject of active investigation over the past 5 decades, but no studies have been focused on the properties of rotation and surface magnetic fields. The availability of ESPaDOnS offers an exceptional possibility to study the specificity of rotation and magnetic properties of Sun-like stars by means of spectropolarimetric observations. In this review, we present some results concerning the investigation of magnetic fields and dynamo evolution in cool active solar-like stars. Our results are based on the systematic searching for genuine solar analogs and observation of a sample of bona fide solar twins and solar analogs, whose fundamental parameters and evolutionary stage was determined in our previous studies. Our main aim is to investigate how rotation and magnetism evolve and how the depth of the convection zone may influence the global-scale toroidal magnetic fields at the stellar surface.
ULTRA HIGH ENERGY COSMIC RAYS WITH THE PIERRE AUGER OBSERVATORY
Authors:   FOR THE PIERRE AUGER COLLABORATION: Observatorio Pierre Auger, Av. San Martín Norte 304, 5613 Malargüe, Argentina (Full author list: http://www.auger.org/archive/authors_2012_04.html)., DE MELLO NETO J. R. T.
Published: September 2012

We present the status and the recent measurements from the Pierre Auger Observatory. The energy spectrum is described and its features discussed. We report searches for anisotropy of cosmic rays arrival directions in large scales and through correlation with catalogues of celestial objects. The measurement of the cross section proton-air is discussed. Finally, the mass composition is addressed with the measurements of the variation of the depth of shower maximum with energy and with the muon density at ground.
Electrical Properties of Lead-Free Ferroelectric Mn-Doped K0.5Na0.5NbO3–CaZrO3 Thin Films Prepared by Chemical Solution Deposition
Authors: Matsuda Takumi , Sakamoto Wataru , Lee Bong-Yeon , Iijima Takashi , Kumagai Jun , Moriya Makoto , Yogo Toshinobu
Published: September 2012

Lead-free ferroelectric K0.5Na0.5NbO3–CaZrO3 thin films were prepared by chemical solution deposition. Chemically optimized K0.5Na0.5NbO3–CaZrO3 precursor thin films crystallized in the perovskite single phase on Pt/TiO
x
/SiO2/Si substrates at 650 °C. The K0.5Na0.5NbO3–CaZrO3 thin films showed poor ferroelectric polarizations due to the insufficient insulating resistance. The leakage current of the K0.5Na0.5NbO3–CaZrO3 films, especially in the high-applied-field region, was markedly reduced by 1 mol % Mn doping for the Nb site. Also, the ferroelectric properties of the K0.5Na0.5NbO3–CaZrO3 thin films depended on CaZrO3 concentration. 1 mol % Mn-doped K0.5Na0.5NbO3–CaZrO3 thin films exhibited slim and small ferroelectric polarization–electric field (P–E) hysteresis loops at room temperature with an increase in CaZrO3 amount. Furthermore, these films showed a typical field-induced displacement curve with a small hysteresis, and the estimated effective d
33 values were 32 pm/V for the 1 mol % Mn-doped 0.95K0.5Na0.5NbO3–0.05CaZrO3 thin films and 21 pm/V for the 1 mol % Mn-doped 0.9K0.5Na0.5NbO3–0.1CaZrO3 thin films.
Size Dependence of Ferroelectric Polarization in PbTiO3 Nanoislands
Authors: Fujisawa Hironori , Yamada Kosei , Igawa Masashi , Nakashima Seiji , Shimizu Masaru
Published: September 2012

We report a size dependence of switchable polarization in PbTiO3 nanoislands with heights of 2–7 nm and widths of 40–80 nm. An atomic force microscopy (AFM) system that was capable of probing a switching charge from a single PbTiO3 nanoisland using a conductive AFM tip as a top electrode has been developed. Using the AFM system, the switching charge as small as 10 fC was detected within a tolerance of ±4 fC. The switchable polarization (ΔP) over 150 µC/cm2 was observed for the nanoislands as small as 5 nm in height, and ΔP rapidly decreased with the height below 5 nm. Comparing the height or thickness dependence of ΔP and stable domain states between the nanoislands and ultrathin films, it was found that the polarization in the nanoislands can be switched by external fields more easily than that in the ultrathin films. The decrease in ΔP of the nanoislands with the height below 5 nm can be attributed to the intrinsic size effects.
Fabrication of Lead Zirconate Titanate Films by Inkjet Printing
Authors: Machida Osamu , Shimofuku Akira , Tashiro Ryo , Takeuchi Atsushi , Akiyama Yoshikazu , Ohta Eiichi
Published: September 2012

In this study, a finely patterned lead zirconate titanate (PZT) film is fabricated by a combination of inkjet printing (IJP), chemical solution deposition (CSD), and surface energy controlling technology. We used patterned multilayer lower electrodes, which easily enable high surface energy contrast on the lower electrode area and achieved high accuracy patterning in the inkjet deposition process. The PZT film, which can be used as an actuator, has 2 µm thickness after iterating the set of surface treatment, inkjet deposition, and baking. This film has a dielectric constant (εr) of 1700, loss tangent (tan
δ) of 0.05, remanent polarization (P
r) of 10 µC/cm2, and coercive field (E
c) of 23 kV/cm. Piezoelectric coefficient d
31 estimated from a displacement of the membrane was determined to be 77 pm/V. These results suggest that this method is a candidate for piezo microelectromechanical system (MEMS) fabrication.
Dielectric Property of Silicate-Doped CaBi4Ti4O15Thin Films
Authors: Ogawa Shota , Kondoh Yohta , Kimura Junichi , Funakubo Hiroshi , Uchida Hiroshi
Published: September 2012

Thin films of silicate-doped CaBi4Ti4O15were fabricated to enhance the insulating property of one-axis-oriented CaBi4Ti4O15films under an applied electric field. The crystalline phase of CaBi4Ti4O15, a type of bismuth layer-structured dielectric (BLSD) compound, was successfully grown on (100)LaNiO3/(111)Pt/TiO2/(100)Si with the preferential orientation of the (001) plane by the addition of bismuth silicate with a nominal composition of Bi12SiO20up to 1.00%. The crystallographic orientation of the (001)BLSD plane normal to the substrate surface was degraded by excessive bismuth silicate addition above 1.50%. The breakdown electric field was increased by bismuth silicate addition up to 2.00% without the degraded relative dielectric permittivity (εr) of approximately 230. The bismuth silicate could precipitate between the grain boundaries in the CaBi4Ti4O15films without an interface reaction or a solid solution that enhances the insulating behavior of the BLSD films.
Control of Crystal Structure of BiFeO3Epitaxial Thin Films by Adjusting Growth Conditions and Piezoelectric Properties
Authors: Kawahara Yusaku , Ujimoto Katsuya , Yoshimura Takeshi , Fujimura Norifumi
Published: September 2012

The effects of epitaxial strain on the crystal structure and piezoelectric properties of (100) BiFeO3thin films were investigated. The epitaxial strain of BiFeO3thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition was controlled by adjusting film thickness and growth temperature. From the results of X-ray diffraction reciprocal space mapping and in-plane piezoelectric force microscopy, it is found that the crystal structure of BiFeO3thin films is a rhombohedral structure with tetragonal distortion, and that the extent of tetragonal distortion increases with decreasing film thickness and growth temperature. From the voltage-strain curves of the films, electric field strain is dominated by the piezoelectric effect in the low-voltage region, while the electrostrictive effect appears in the high-voltage region. It was found that piezoelectric strain increases with increasing extent of tetragonal distortion, which suggests that the piezoelectric properties of BiFeO3thin films can be improved using a mixture of two types of structural distortion.
Orientation Control of (Sr,Ca)2NaNb5O15Ceramics by Spin-Forming-Extended Method
Authors: Ishii Keisuke , Hashizume Emi , Tashiro Shinjiro
Published: September 2012

Using a spin-forming-extended method, which is one of the template grain growth methods, one-directional grain-orientation control was performed in (Sr,Ca)2NaNb5O15(SCNN) ceramics. Rod like templates were prepared by the one-step flux method using the mixed salts of KCl and NaCl. In order to obtain the SCNN templates with a high aspect ratio, the two-step flux method in which Sr0.95Ca0.05Nb2O6powder is utilized as the precursor was also examined. From these templates, the rectangular samples withc-axis orientation in the thickness direction were fabricated. The textured samples with an orientation factor of 0.9 and a remnant polarization of 7.4 µC/cm2were obtained using the resulting templates from the two-step flux method.
Grain Size Effect on Dielectric Properties of Ba(Zr,Ti)O3 Ceramics
Authors: Hoshina Takuya , Furuta Tsutomu , Yamazaki Takahiro , Takeda Hiroaki , Tsurumi Takaaki
Published: September 2012

We demonstrated the size effect on the dielectric properties of BaZr
x
Ti1-x
O3 (x = 0.2 and 0.25) ceramics that showed relaxor behavior. Fine-grained BaZr
x
Ti1-x
O3 ceramics with micrometer- and nanometer-sized grains were fabricated by the two-step sintering method and aerosol deposition (AD) method, respectively. From the dielectric measurement, the permittivity of the BaZr
x
Ti1-x
O3 ceramics markedly decreased with decreasing grain size below 3 µm. The permittivity of the BaZr
x
Ti1-x
O3 nanograined ceramics decreased with increasing Zr content and was much smaller than the permittivity of the BaTiO3 nanograined ceramics. These results indicated that the BaZr
x
Ti1-x
O3 ceramics were more susceptible to the grain size effect than the pure BaTiO3 ceramics. The dielectric responses to temperature and frequency suggested that the volume fraction of polar nanoregions decreased and the relaxor characteristics increased with decreasing grain size in BaZr
x
Ti1-x
O3 ceramics.
Poling and Depoling Effects on Dielectric Properties and Domain Structures in Relaxor 24Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–46Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–30PbTiO3 near a Morphotropic Phase Boundary Composition
Authors: Hidayah Nur , Yasuda Naohiko , Ohwa Hidehiro , Tachi Yoshihito , Yamashita Yohachi , Iwata Makoto
Published: September 2012

The temperature dependence of the complex relative permittivity in a relaxor ferroelectric solid solution 24Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3–46Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–30PbTiO3 (PIN–PMN–PT) crystal poled and depoled was measured from room temperature to 200 °C at various frequencies. The poled sample exhibits transitions from the ferroelectric (FE) phase to the relaxor (RE) phase on heating, and after that, the depoled one exhibits those from the RE phase to the glassy freezing phase on cooling. An RE-type dielectric dispersion with a weak frequency (f) dependence was observed. Such a dielectric dispersion in the RE state was found to be based on tweed domain structures observed by polarization light microscopy (PLM) and piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM) due to the competition between the antiferroelectric (AFE) and FE coupling in the RE state. The temperature dependence of complex permittivity with resonance- and relaxor-type dielectric dispersions in the poled and depoled samples was characterized by hierarchical domain structures.
Substitution of Sn Ions in (Ba,Ca)TiO3 Perovskites
Authors: Suzuki Shoichiro , Iwaji Naoki , Honda Atsushi , Higai Shin'ichi , Wada Nobuyuki , Ando Akira , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: September 2012

We clarified the effect of (Ba,Ca)/Ti ratio on the substitution of Ba by Sn in (Ba,Ca)TiO3 perovskites. With decreasing (Ba,Ca)/Ti ratio, c/a ratio rapidly increases and leads to an increase in phase transition temperature. The increasing number of Ba site vacancies is effective for substituting Sn into the Ba site. We directly observed that Sn ions exist at Ba sites, for the first time, by spherical-aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry and electron energy loss spectroscopy. These results provide insights for exploring BaTiO3-based ceramics containing Sn, which show high Curie temperatures without Pb.
Reliability of Nickel Inner Electrode Lead-Free Multilayer Piezoelectric Ceramics
Authors: Hayashi Hiroyuki , Kawada Shinichiro , Kimura Masahiko , Nakai Yoshihiro , Tabata Toyokazu , Shiratsuyu Kosuke , Nada Kazushige , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: September 2012

The environmental reliability of lead-free (K,Na)NbO3-based multilayer ceramics with nickel inner electrodes was studied. The multilayer specimen with good piezoelectric properties was successfully obtained by adding excess zirconium to a (K,Na)NbO3-based composition. Excess zirconium probably accelerated the solid solution of potassium into the crystal lattice and prevented potassium evaporation. The electric resistivity and piezoelectric properties of the ceramics were extremely stable at a high temperature (85 °C), a low temperature (-40 °C), and a high humidity [85 °C/85% relative humidity (RH)]. Their change rates were below 10% in 500 h studies. The stability was also high in the thermal shock (from -40 to 85 °C) test. It is thus concluded that the (K,Na)NbO3-based composition containing excess zirconium is a good candidate material for nickel electrode multilayer ceramics.