bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical interpretation of degeneracies of the Christoffel equation in the theory of anisotropic elasticity
Authors: Goldin S.V.
Published: September 2013

According to the classical approach to physical interpretation of multiple roots of the Christoffel equation in the theory of elastic wave propagation in anisotropic media, a sum of isonormal plane waves propagating in the direction of acoustic axes can have either arbitrary or circular polarization. The main question posed in this paper is as follows: can one apply conclusions drawn for plane waves to other phenomena, in particular, to waves generated by a point source? The paper proposes a new principle of physical interpretation of degeneracies stating that any assessment of the polarizations (and the group velocities) of waves propagating in anisotropic media is reasonable if there exists an experiment with a point source in which the assessment agrees with the general symmetry of the experiment. From the viewpoint of this interpretation, all degeneracies are considered on the wavefront. The inferences drawn from the performed analysis might appear surprising: in all considered cases of degeneracies (such as conic axes, tangent degeneracy on the symmetry axis of infinite order in transversely isotropic media, intersections of the slowness surfaces), ambiguity in determination of the polarization vectors either does not exist for any experiment or can be removed based on the symmetry of an experiment. A condition for convexity of the slowness surface of the fastest wave is formulated in this context.
Genomic Resources Notes accepted 1 June 2013–31 July 2013
Authors:   Genomic Resources Development Consortium, Bensch Staffan , Coltman David W. , Davis Corey S. , Hellgren Olof , Johansson Tomas , Malenfant René M. , Moore Stephen S. , Palinauskas Vaidas , Valkiūnas Gediminas
Published: September 2013

This article documents the public availability of (i) raw transcriptome sequence data, assembled contigs and UniProt BLAST hits from common crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) and Plasmodium relictum (lineage SGS1) obtained from a controlled infection experiment; and (ii) raw transcriptome sequence data and 66 596 SNPs for the white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus).
A New Oviraptorid Dinosaur (Theropoda: Oviraptorosauria) from the Late Cretaceous of Jiangxi Province, Southern China
Authors: Xuefang WEI , Hanyong PU , Li XU , Di LIU , Junchang LÜ
Published: September 2013

A new oviraptorid dinosaur Jiangxisaurus ganzhouensis gen. et sp. nov., is erected based on a partial skeleton from the Upper Cretaceous Nanxiong Formation of Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province. The new taxon differs from other oviraptorids in the weakly downturned rostrum of the lower jaw, much‐elongated mandible with a height‐to‐length ratio being about 20% and the length ratio of radius to humerus of about 0.70. This species not only adds a new member to oviraptorid dinosaurs, but also provides more information about oviraptorid paleogeographical distribution in southern China.
The Aghajari (Upper Fars) Formation in the Folded Zagros Zone, Iran: Insights to Identify Facies, Architectural Elements, Fluvial Systems, Petrography and Provenance
Authors: SAHRAEYAN Mohammad , BAHRAMI Mohammad , HEJAZI Sayed Hassan
Published: September 2013

The Aghajari Formation, called also the Upper Fars, develops throughout the Folded Zagros Zone and its thickness in the type section in southwest of Iran is 2966 meters. To analyze the sedimentary basin of this Formation, lithofacies, architectural elements and petrofacies of the related deposits in a section in southeast of Sarvestan in Fars Province of Iran with a thickness of 2221.45 meters were examined. Microscopically studying thin sections, the petrography and the occurrence of the deposits were determined. In this section, 16 lithofacies, 10 architectural elements and 2 sandstone petrofacies were identified. The lithofacies were divided into two major and minor groups, in which the major lithofacies consist of coarse‐grained (Gh, Gp, Gt and Gm), medium‐grained (Sh, Sp, St, Sl, Sm, Sr and Ss and fine‐grained ones (Fm, Fl and Fsm), and the minor lithofacies were evaporative and mixed silisiclastic‐carbonate. The identified architectural elements are CH, SB, GB, LA, DA, CR, CS, LV, LS, CH (FF) and FF. By combining evidences from facies analysis and architectural elements together, the Aghajari Formation was divided into three parts in which the related sedimentation environments, from top to bottom, are gravel, gravel‐sand and fine‐grained meandering river respectively. There have also been playas and shoreface in the lower part. Based on petrography, the sandstones of this formation were classified into two groups: litharenite and sublitharenite. The origin of these deposits (sandstones) was appointed to the recycled orogeny and the source of quartz is low and medium to high metamorphic rank. Using the field evidences, the paleocurrent direction was achieved indicating the direction of the paleocurrent from northwest to southeast at the time of deposition. It is hoped that these data can be used in the interpretation of the basin and reconstruction of the paleogeography in the local and regional scales.
Petrochemical Characteristics and Timing of Middle Eocene Granitic Magmatism in Kooh‐Shah, Lut Block, Eastern Iran
Authors: ABDI Maryam , KARIMPOUR M. H.
Published: September 2013

The Kooh‐Shah region located in a Tertiary volcanic–plutonic belt of the Lut Block in eastern Iran comprises several subvolcanic intermediate to acidic intrusive rocks, diorite to syenite in composition, which have intruded into volcanic rocks. The Kooh‐Shah granitoid rocks are characterized by enrichment in large ion‐lithophile elements (LILE: e.g. Sr, Ba, Rb) and depletion in high field‐strength elements (HFSE: e.g. Nb, Ta, Ti). The chondrite‐normalized REE patterns are characterized by moderate LREE enrichment (La/Yb)N=6.01–10.01, medium‐heavy REE enrichment, and absence of Eu anomalies. The Kooh‐Shah intrusive rocks are metaluminous, shoshonitic with calc‐alkaline affinity and high values of magnetic susceptibility, and classified as the magnetite‐series of oxidant I‐type granitoids. The age of Kooh‐Shah granitoid rocks based on zircon U–Pb age dating is 39.7±0.7 Ma (=Middle Eocene) and the ranges of their initial 87Sr/86Sr and 143Nd/144Nd ratios are from 0.704812 to 0.704920 and 0.512579 to 0.512644, respectively, when recalculated to an age of 39 Ma. The initial cNd isotope values for the Kooh‐Shah intrusive rocks range from −0.18 to 1.09. This geochemical data indicates that the Kooh‐Shah granitoid rocks formed from depleted mantle in an island arc setting. The geochemical signature of the studied granitoid rocks represents a characteristic guide for future exploration of copper‐gold porphyry‐type deposits in the Lut block.
Differential Hydrocarbon Accumulation Controlled by Structural Styles along the Southern and Northern Tianshan Thrust Belt
Authors: Yan SONG , Mengjun ZHAO , Shihu FANG , Benliang LI , Shaobo LIU , Qingong ZHUO
Published: September 2013

The Kuqa and the Southern Junggar foreland thrust belts, which lie to the southern and northern Tianshan, respectively, were formed under a strong compressional tectonic setting. Due to the differential propagation and deformation under the control of the décollement horizon, the structural deformation styles differ in the Kuqa and Southern Junggar thrust belts. Imbricated stacking is developed in the Kuqa thrust belt, forming a piggyback imbricated pattern of faulted anticline and fault‐block structural assemblage dominated by salt structures. In contrast, wedge‐shaped thrusts are developed in Southern Junggar, mainly forming vertical laminated patterns of multi‐wedge‐structure stacks strongly influenced by the décollement horizons. The different deformation patterns and structural styles of the north and south of Tian Shan control the contrasting characteristics of hydrocarbon accumulation in the foreland thrust belts of the Kuqa and the Southern Junggar thrust belts, including the variance in the hydrocarbon trap types, pathway systems and hydrocarbon‐bearing horizons. Proven by the hydrocarbon accumulation research and exploration achievements, recent exploration targets should focus on sub‐salt piggyback imbricated structural patterns in the Kuqa and the deep laminated patterns in the Southern Junggar thrust belt.
Characteristic of Gravity and Magnetic Anomalies in the Daba Shan and the Sichuan basin, China: Implication for Architecture of the Daba Shan
Authors: Jisheng ZHANG , Rui GAO , Qiusheng LI , Ye GUAN , Haiyan WANG , Wenhui LI
Published: September 2013

The Dabashan nappe structural belt links the Hannan block to the west with the Huangling block to the east between Yangxian and Xiangfan. The Dabashan arc‐shaped fold belt formed during late Jurassic and was superposed on earlier Triassic folds. To achieve an improved understanding of the deep tectonics of the Dabashan nappe structural belt, we processed and interpreted the gravity and magnetic data for this area using new deep reflection seismic and other geophysical data as constraints. The results show that the Sichuan basin and Daba Mountains lie between the Longmenshan and Wulingshan gravity gradient belts. The positive magnetic anomalies around Nanchong‐Tongjiang‐Wanyuan‐Langao and around Shizhu result from the crystalline basement. Modeling of the gravity and magnetic anomalies in the Daba Mountains and the Sichuan basin shows that the crystalline basement around Nanchong‐Tongjiang‐Wanyuan‐Langao extends to the northeast underneath the Wafangdian fault near Ziyang. The magnetic field boundary in the Zhenba‐Wanyuan‐Chengkou‐Zhenping area is the major boundary of the Dabashan nappe thrusting above the Sichuan Basin. This boundary might be the demarcation between the south Dabashan and the north Dabashan structural elements. The low gravity anomaly between Tongjiang and Chengkou might be partly caused by thickened lower crust The local low gravity anomaly to the south of Chengkou‐Wanyuan might result from Mesozoic strata of low density in the Dabashan foreland depression area.
Legal substance use and the development of a DSM‐IV cannabis use disorder during adolescence: the TRAILS study
Authors: Prince van Leeuwen Andrea , Creemers Hanneke E. , Verhulst Frank C. , Vollebergh Wilma A. M. , Ormel Johan , van Oort Floor , Huizink Anja C.
Published: September 2013

Aims

To examine whether early onset of tobacco or alcohol use, and continued use of tobacco or alcohol in early adolescence, are related to a higher likelihood of developing a cannabis use disorder during adolescence.

Design and setting

Data were used from four consecutive assessment waves of the TRacking Adolescents' Individual Lives Survey (TRAILS), a general Dutch population study. TRAILS is an ongoing longitudinal study that will follow the same group of adolescents from the ages of 10 to 24 years.

Participants

The sample consisted of 1108 (58% female) adolescents (mean ages at the four assessment waves are 11.09, 13.56, 16.27 and 19.05 years, respectively)

Measurements

Cannabis use disorders were assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0 (CIDI). Adolescent tobacco and alcohol use were assessed using self‐report questionnaires.

Findings

Early‐onset tobacco use [odds ratio (OR) = 1.82, confidence interval (CI) = 1.05–3.14, P < 0.05], but not early‐onset alcohol use (OR = 1.33, CI = 0.84–2.12, P > 0.05), was associated with a higher likelihood of developing a cannabis use disorder. Similarly, adolescents who reported continued use of tobacco (OR = 2.47, CI = 1.02–5.98, P < 0.05), but not continued use of alcohol (OR = 1.71, CI = 0.87–3.38, P > 0.05), were more likely to develop a cannabis use disorder.

Conclusions

Early‐onset and continued tobacco use appear to predict the development of a cannabis use disorder in adolescence, whereas early onset and continued alcohol use do not.
An assay that may predict the development of IgG enhancing allergen‐specific IgE binding during birch immunotherapy
Authors: Selb R. , Eckl‐Dorna J. , Vrtala S. , Valenta R. , Niederberger V.
Published: September 2013

Background

It has been shown that birch pollen immunotherapy can induce IgG antibodies which enhance IgE binding to Bet v 1. We aimed to develop a serological assay to predict the development of antibodies which enhance IgE binding to Bet v 1 during immunotherapy.

Methods

In 18 patients treated by Bet v 1‐fragment‐specific immunotherapy, the effects of IgG antibodies specific for the fragments on the binding of IgE antibodies to Bet v 1 were measured by ELISA. Blocking and possible enhancing effects on IgE binding were compared with skin sensitivity to Bet v 1 after treatment.

Results

We found that fragment‐specific IgG enhanced IgE binding to Bet v 1 in two patients who also showed an increase of skin sensitivity to Bet v 1.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that it may be possible to develop serological tests which predict the induction of unfavourable IgG antibodies enhancing the binding of IgE to Bet v 1 during immunotherapy.
Modes of Attentiveness: Reading for Difference in Geographies of Homelessness
Authors: May Jon , Cloke Paul
Published: September 2013

Hegemonic accounts of urban homelessness, focusing on attempts to restrict homeless people's presence in public space, stress the punitive nature of current homelessness policy. In contrast, in this paper we explore the “messy middle ground” of the UK homeless services system. Examining Stacey Murphy's (2009) (Antipode 41(2):305–325) arguments regarding a shift to a “post‐revanchist” era in San Francisco, we chart the apparent similarities between developments in San Francisco and changes to the management of street homelessness bought in to effect by the New Labour government in the UK, and assess the extent to which such developments might be read as holding in tension more obviously punitive and supportive trends usually viewed as necessarily oppositional. In the final part of the paper we present a re‐reading of recent changes to the management of street homelessness in the UK through a postsecular lens. We suggest that this lens provides the possibility for a much more optimistic reading of homeless services and of the grammars of homelessness and urban (in)justice more broadly, and make the case for an alternative mode of academic attentiveness open to sometimes subtle and smaller‐scale yet nonetheless important examples of different ways of understanding and doing.
The effect of Ginkgo biloba extracts on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cilostazol and its active metabolites in healthy Korean subjects
Authors: Kim Ho‐Sook , Kim Ga‐young , Yeo Chang‐Woo , Oh Minkyung , Ghim Jong‐lyul , Shon Ji‐Hong , Kim Eun‐Young , Kim Dong‐Hyun , Shin Jae‐Gook
Published: September 2013

Aims

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of Ginkgo biloba extracts (GBE) on the pharmacokinetics of cilostazol and its metabolites. The secondary objective was to assess the effect of GBE on the pharmacodynamics of cilostazol.

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, two‐way crossover study was conducted with 34 healthy Korean subjects. All subjects were given an oral dose of cilostazol (100 mg) plus GBE (80 mg) or cilostazol (100 mg) plus placebo twice daily for 7 days. Plasma concentrations of cilostazol and its active metabolites (3,4‐dehydrocilostazol and 4′‐trans‐hydroxycilostazol) were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectroscopy on day 7 for pharmacokinetic assessment. The adenosine diphosphate‐induced platelet aggregation and bleeding time were measured at baseline and on day 7 for pharmacodynamic assessment.

Results

The geometric mean ratios of area under the concentration–time curve for dosing interval for cilostazol plus GBE vs. cilostazol plus placebo were 0.96 (90% confidence interval, 0.89–1.03; P = 0.20) for cilostazol, 0.96 (90% confidence interval, 0.90–1.02; P = 0.30) for 3,4‐dehydrocilostazol and 0.98 (90% confidence interval, 0.93–1.03; P = 0.47) for 4′‐trans‐hydroxycilostazol. The change of aggregation after administration of cilostazol plus GBE seemed to be 1.31 times higher compared with cilostazol plus placebo, without statistical significance (P = 0.20). There were no significant changes in bleeding times and adverse drug reactions between the treatments.

Conclusions

Co‐administration of GBE showed no statistically significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of cilostazol in healthy subjects. A large cohort study with long‐term follow‐up may be needed to evaluate the possible pharmacodynamic interaction between cilostazol and GBE, given that there was a remarkable, but not statistically significant, increase in inhibition of platelet aggregation.
‘Isla Abierta’ or ‘Isla Cerrada’?: Karmadavis's Pre‐ and Post‐Earthquake Hispaniola
Authors: FUMAGALLI MARIA CRISTINA
Published: September 2013

Border relations on Hispaniola have always been characterised by contradictory dynamics. After the 2012 earthquake some hoped that the catastrophe could signpost the beginning of better border relations. Well before the earthquake, the artist David Pérez a.k.a. Karmadavis had urged the inhabitants of the island to consider Hispaniola as an isla abierta (open island) where one could develop a national identity in relation with and not in opposition to one's neighbours. After the earthquake, Karmadavis continues to denounce how Hispaniola is still an isla cerrada (closed island) that fails to realise, appreciate and celebrate itself as a estructura completa (complete structure).
Olp: An R package for optimal linear partitions of finite sets of points on the plane
Authors: Burigana Luigi , Martino Francesco , Vicovaro Michele
Published: September 2013

Given a set of points on the plane and an assignment of values to them, an optimal linear partition is a division of the set into two subsets which are separated by a straight line and maximally contrast with each other in the values assigned to their points. We present a method for inspecting and rating all linear partitions of a finite set, and a package of three functions in the R language for executing the computations. One function is for finding the optimal linear partitions and corresponding separating lines, another for graphically representing the results, and a third for testing how well the data comply with the linear separability condition. We illustrate the method on possible data from a psychophysical experiment (concerning the size–weight illusion) and compare its performance with that of linear discriminant analysis and multiple logistic regression, adapted to dividing linearly a set of points on the plane.
Thyroid gland invasion in total laryngectomy and total laryngopharyngectomy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the English literature
Authors: Kumar R. , Drinnan M. , Robinson M. , Meikle D. , Stafford F. , Welch A. , Zammit‐Maempel I. , Paleri V.
Published: September 2013

Background

Advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas carry an inherent risk of invading thyroid parenchyma leading to the incorporation of a hemithyroidectomy or total thyroidectomy as part of a total laryngectomy. In some centres, thyroid gland removal occurs routinely during surgery for T3 and T4 laryngopharyngeal carcinoma. However, the incidence of invasion is low, and therefore, thyroid‐sparing surgery must be considered for select cases.

Objective of review

The primary goal of the review is to assess the true incidence of thyroid gland invasion in laryngopharyngeal carcinoma. Utilising this data we aim to identify risk factors and clinical predictors of thyroid gland invasion to facilitate in a more targeted approach in the surgical management of advanced laryngopharyngeal carcinoma.

Type of review

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of all published data and review of case series at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals (NuTH).

Search strategy

MEDLINE (1946–2012) and EMBASE (1980–2012) were searched.

Evaluation method

A single reviewer conducted the systematic review with a follow‐up ancestry search. Studies publishing case series of T3 and T4 laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinoma treated by total laryngectomy or laryngopharyngectomy and partial or total thyroidectomy, with pathological assessment for thyroid gland invasion rates were selected. Articles published prior to 1977 were excluded due to the advent of whole organ sectioning.

Results

The literature search identified 16 studies suitable for inclusion, with 1180 cases. The NuTH case series identified 107 patients. The overall pooled incidence of thyroid gland invasion in 1287 patients is 10.7% (95% CI 7.6–14.2). Patients with primary subglottic tumours (relative risk 7.5; 95% CI 4.3–13.0) and disease extension into the subglottis (relative risk 4.3; 95% CI 2.5–7.2) have a significantly higher relative risk of thyroid gland invasion. Radiorecurrent tumours and hypopharyngeal tumours did not have an increased risk of thyroid gland invasion.

Conclusion

Advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal carcinomas involving the subglottis carry a significantly elevated risk of thyroid gland invasion compared with those that spare this subsite. The overall incidence of thyroid gland invasion is low, and therefore, thyroidectomy should be reserved for cases considered to be at risk as opposed to a being a routine measure for all total laryngectomies.
Trends in Deforestation and Forest Degradation after a Decade of Monitoring in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico
Authors: VIDAL OMAR , LÓPEZ‐GARCÍA JOSÉ , RENDÓN‐SALINAS EDUARDO
Published: September 2013

We used aerial photographs, satellite images, and field surveys to monitor forest cover in the core zones of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico from 2001 to 2012. We used our data to assess the effectiveness of conservation actions that involved local, state, and federal authorities and community members (e.g., local landowners and private and civil organizations) in one of the world's most iconic protected areas. From 2001 through 2012, 1254 ha were deforested (i.e., cleared areas had <10% canopy cover), 925 ha were degraded (i.e., areas for which canopy forest decreased), and 122 ha were affected by climatic conditions. Of the total 2179 ha of affected area, 2057 ha were affected by illegal logging: 1503 ha by large‐scale logging and 554 ha by small‐scale logging. Mexican authorities effectively enforced efforts to protect the monarch reserve, particularly from 2007 to 2012. Those efforts, together with the decade‐long financial support from Mexican and international philanthropists and businesses to create local alternative‐income generation and employment, resulted in the decrease of large‐scale illegal logging from 731 ha affected in 2005–2007 to none affected in 2012, although small‐scale logging is of growing concern. However, dire regional social and economic problems remain, and they must be addressed to ensure the reserve's long‐term conservation. The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) overwintering colonies in Mexico—which engage in one of the longest known insect migrations—are threatened by deforestation, and a multistakeholder, regional, sustainable‐development strategy is needed to protect the reserve.

Tendencias en la Deforestación y la Degradación de Forestal después de una Década de Monitoreo en la Reserva de la Biósfera de la Mariposa Monarca en México
Multicenter review of liver transplant for hepatitis B‐related liver disease: disparities in gender and ethnicity
Authors: Campsen Jeffrey , Zimmerman Michael , Trotter James , Hong Johnny , Freise Chris , Brown Robert S. , Cameron Andrew , Ghobrial Mark , Kam Igal , Busuttil Ronald , Saab Sammy , Holt Curtis , Emond Jean C. , Stiles Jessica B. , Lukose Thresiamma , Chang Matthew S. , Klintmalm Göran
Published: September 2013

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is the preferred treatment for selected patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related liver disease. This study aimed to (i) define long‐term outcomes following OLT for HBV; (ii) to quantify the incidence of HBV recurrence (rHBV) as it relates to anti‐HBV treatment; and (iii) to determine outcomes for specific patient subgroups. We performed a retrospective chart review of 738 patients undergoing OLT between 1985 and 2010 at seven US transplant centers and divided the patients into 3 eras, 1985–1994, 1995–2004, and 2005–2010, based on hepatitis B immunoglobulin and antiviral therapies. In Era 3, female gender (p = 0.002), recurrent hepatocellular cancer (p < 0.001), and retransplantation (p = 0.01) were significantly associated with worse survival on multivariate analysis. Survival at three yr was poor for all ethnicities in Era 1, but significantly improved for all except black Americans by Era 3. Era 2 data showed a continued increase in rHBV from five to 10 yr (16.6%, 26.2%). In conclusion, while OLT outcomes have improved because of combination antiviral and immunoglobulin therapy, women and black Americans may not have realized an equal benefit. The rate of rHBV is significant even 10 yr post‐transplant with survival affected.
Periocular cutaneous oncocytoma with signs of disrupted oxygen metabolism
Authors: Wobser Marion , Haferkamp Sebastian , Roth Sabine , Meyer‐ter‐Vehn Tobias , Pfister Andrea , Giner Tina , Rütten Arno , Kneitz Hermann , Goebeler Matthias , Geissinger Eva
Published: September 2013

Oncocytomas are benign tumors most often occurring in salivary or lacrimal glands and thyroid tissue. As cutaneous oncocytoma is exceptionally rare, this tumor is uncommonly encountered by dermatopathologists. Herein, we illustrate the case of an 80‐year‐old man who presented with a slowly growing papule of the lower eyelid. Histopathologically, the adenomatous tumor was composed of large monomorphic cells with eosinophilic granular cytoplasm. Electron microscopy revealed abundant, enlarged and abnormally shaped mitochondria. These findings were consistent with an oncocytoma of the skin. The presented case is unique in that the thorough work‐up of the tumor tissue revealed not only hyperplastic mitochondria, representing the ultrastructural correlate of the observed granular cytoplasm, but additionally disclosed functional consequences with elevated levels of reactive oxygen specimen (ROS) within the tumor. Disrupted oxygen metabolism may result from cellular aging processes and may putatively represent the underlying pathogenesis of oncocytoma.
Birth order – a risk factor for dental trauma?
Authors: Käch Matthias , Krastl Gabriel , Zitzmann Nicola U. , Kühl Sebastian , Filippi Andreas
Published: September 2013

Background

Many character traits are influenced by birth order with greatest differences between first and lastborns.

Aim

To investigate the influence of birth order on the risk of dental trauma.

Methods

Five hundred mothers in Switzerland were interviewed personally regarding dental trauma in their children. Inclusion criteria were a family size of at least two children. Data of 1282 children were collected.

Results

Thirty‐two percent of the children had sustained one or more dental trauma before the age of 16 (57% male, 43% female). In children who had sustained dental trauma twice, the gender ratio moved to 68% male and 32% female (P = 0.003). Regarding birth order, lastborns sustained more second dental traumas. Relative risk of second dental trauma was 2.1 times higher in lastborns than in firstborns (P = 0.02). Moreover, certain character traits in children are influenced by birth order. According to their mothers, lastborns were more curious, less calm and less deliberate than firstborns (P < 0.001). Second born without younger siblings were more athletic/active than firstborns (P = 0.011). Athletic/active children as well as not calm/deliberate children sustained second dental trauma more often than not athletic/active (P = 0.038) and calm/deliberate children (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Birth order is a risk factor for sustaining dental trauma twice. Character traits of lastborns (curious, not calm/deliberate and aggressive) could be reasons for higher risk of dental trauma.
Shock absorption ability of mouthguard against forceful, traumatic mandibular closure
Authors: Ozawa Takamitsu , Takeda Tomotaka , Ishigami Keiichi , Narimatsu Keishiro , Hasegawa Ken , Nakajima Kazunori , Noh Kwantae
Published: September 2013

Background

The positive effects of wearing a mouthguard on shock absorption have been indicated in various papers. The ability of a mouthguard to protect against indirect injury, however, is not clear, and the thickness that a mouthguard would require to provide such protection remains to be determined. The primary aim of this study was to clarify the shock absorption potential of a mouthguard against forced, traumatic occlusion. The secondary objective was to compare the shock absorption ability of different thicknesses of mouthguard against this type of trauma.

Materials and methods

An artificial skull (ZA20; 3B Scientific International, Co. Ltd, Niigata, Japan) with two‐axis strain gages applied to the right buccal aspect of the mandible and the mandibular and maxillary teeth was used to measure shock absorption ability. Three different thicknesses of EVA mouthguard (1, 2, and 3 mm at the first molar) were tested.

Results and conclusions

Within the limitations of this laboratory study, the following results were obtained: the results showed that increasing the thickness of the mouthguard improved its shock absorption ability.
Evidence, Evaluation and the ‘Tyranny of Effect Size’: a proposal to more accurately measure programme impacts in adult and family literacy
Authors: Carpentieri JD
Published: September 2013

As literacy grows in importance, policymakers’ demands for programme quality grow, too. Evidence on the effectiveness of adult and family literacy programmes is limited at best: research gaps abound, and programme evaluations are more often than not based on flawed theories of programme impact. In the absence of robust evidence on the full range of short‐ and long‐term programme impacts, it is difficult to accurately measure intervention effectiveness. Too frequently, researchers and policymakers focus only on short‐term, easily measured outcomes, creating a ‘tyranny of effect size’ that may systematically underestimate impact while simultaneously distorting practice. However, the answer does not lie in turning away from quantitative research. Doing so will consign adult and family literacy to the margins of public policy, when they should be in the mainstream. Longitudinal research from Turkey and the US suggests a need for revised, more subtle theories of how adult literacy and family literacy programmes work, and the diverse ways they benefit participants. By working together more closely and intelligently, researchers, policymakers and practitioners can develop evaluation strategies that more accurately measure programme effects. The key is combining methodological rigour with fully fleshed out theories of literacy development and programme impact.
Sustained response to low‐dose rituximab in idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia
Authors: Barcellini Wilma , Zaja Francesco , Zaninoni Anna , Imperiali Francesca Guia , Di Bona Eros , Fattizzo Bruno , Consonni Dario , Cortelezzi Agostino , Zanella Alberto
Published: September 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the sustained response to low‐dose (LD) rituximab in autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), the ex vivo effect on anti‐RBC antibody production by mitogen‐stimulated direct antiglobulin test (MS‐DAT), and the in vitro dose effect of the drug on the production of anti‐RBC antibodies.

Methods

Thirty two patients, 18 warm (W) AIHA and 14 cold hemagglutinin disease (CHD), were treated with LD rituximab (100 mg fixed dose ×4 weekly infusions) along with a short course of oral prednisone. Complete clinical examination, blood counts, and hemolytic markers were performed at enrollment and at month 6, 12, 24, and 36.

Results

Hematological parameters significantly improved at all time points compared to enrollment. The overall response was 90%, 100%, 100%, and 89% and the relapse‐free survival 87%, 79%, 68%, and 68% at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. Response rates were slightly better in WAIHA than in CHD, and relapse risk was greater in cold than warm forms (HR 2.1, 95% CI 0.6–7.9). Four patients were retreated (one patient twice), all achieving a response, lasting a median of 18 months (range 9–30). Treatment was well tolerated without adverse events or infections. Anti‐RBC antibody production by MS‐DAT significantly decreased over time. In vitro studies showed that rituximab effectively inhibited anti‐RBC antibody production at 50 μg/mL, 1/6 of the drug concentration after therapy with standard doses.

Conclusions

These data confirm that LD rituximab treatment is effective and induces sustained responses in AIHA, and that a lower dose of the drug is enough to down‐regulate autoantibody production.
Msx1 regulates proliferation and differentiation of mouse dental mesenchymal cells in culture
Authors: Feng Xiao‐yu , Zhao Yu‐ming , Wang Wen‐jun , Ge Li‐hong
Published: September 2013

The homeobox, msh‐like 1 (MSX1) protein is essential for cell proliferation and differentiation. Tooth germ development of Msx1 knockout mouse is arrested at the bud stage, impeding an understanding of its role beyond this stage of tooth development. The aims of this study were to investigate the potential role of MSX1 in the regulation of proliferation and differentiation of dental mesenchymal cells in culture, and to preliminarily explore its underlying mechanism of action. Tooth germs were isolated from embryonic day (E)15.5 mice. The mesenchyme was separated and digested into a single‐cell suspension, and then cultured in vitro. Isolated dental mesenchymal cells were transfected with MSX1 small interfering RNA, and the effects on cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution, and the expression of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (Bmp2) and bone morphogenetic protein 4 (Bmp4) were studied. We also compared the expression levels of alkaline phosphatase (Alp), type I collagen (Col1A), osteocalcin (Ocn), runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), dentin sialophosphoprotein (Dspp) and dentin matrix protein 1 (Dmp1), and mineralized nodule formation, between control and MSX1 siRNA‐transfected groups after the induction of odontoblast differentiation. Knockdown of Msx1 expression was associated with decreased cell proliferation, prolonged time in the S phase of the cell cycle, enhanced odontoblast differentiation, and elevated Bmp2 and Bmp4 expression. We conclude that MSX1 may promote proliferation and prevent the differentiation of dental mesenchymal cells by the inhibition of Bmp2 and Bmp4 expression.
Status epilepticus in sub‐Saharan Africa: New findings
Authors: Newton Charles R. , Kariuki Symon M.
Published: September 2013

Status epilepticus (SE) is common in sub‐Saharan Africa, particularly in children. Most cases in children are caused by infections, particularly malaria in endemic areas. The outcome is worse than in the West, probably because of delays in initiating treatment, and lack of skills and facilities for the management of SE. However some of the causes, for example, falciparum malaria, offer challenges in the diagnosis and the treatment of SE. Exposure to falciparum malaria increases the risk of SE. Much of the SE in Africa could be prevented by reducing the incidence of infections. The outcome could be improved through education, development of locally appropriate guidelines, and provision of appropriate facilities.
The historical evolution of, and the paradigms shifts in, the therapy of convulsive status epilepticus over the past 150 years
Authors: Shorvon Simon
Published: September 2013

The evolution of the treatment of convulsive status epilepticus since the mid‐ nineteenth century is outlined. Therapy has been advanced not only by the use of new drugs, but also by advances in the approach to therapy. The major pharmacologic developments were the introductions of bromide, anesthetics, barbiturate, phenytoin, paraldehyde, chlormethiazole, and the benzodiazepines. Throughout this period, the emphasis of therapy was on “sedation” and anesthesia, and the development of technologies for safe anesthesia in the postwar years were an important step. Since 1970, changes to the approach to therapy have been more important than any pharmacologic advance, and it is only recently that new drugs have been introduced into the therapy of status epilepticus. We may now be on the threshold of significant new paradigm shifts.
Surgical treatment of status epilepticus: A palliative approach
Authors: Winkler Peter A.
Published: September 2013

Although status epilepticus (SE) does not resemble a domain for neurosurgical indications in single occasions, a microneurosurgical procedure in patients with catastrophic epilepsy and status epilepticus should be considered as an ultimate ratio‐choice in these patients. From a personal series of >600 epilepsy surgery procedures in a period fromAugust 1, 1993 untilMarch 13, 2013, 22 patients were identified with catastrophic epilepsy and all of them with at least one episode of status epilepticus. Five of the patients had surgery under ongoing status epilepticus. Twelve patients became seizure‐free, two patients had >90% seizure reduction, seven patients >50% seizure reduction, and one patient was unchanged. No surgery‐related complications in terms of permanent morbidity were ascertained in the presented series. In the subgroup of the five patients operated in the acute phase ofSEone patient became seizure‐free (Engel class.I), one showedEngel classII, twoEngel classIII, and oneEngel classIVwith no worthwhile improvement. Patients with catastrophic epilepsy including status epilepticus can benefit from resective epilepsy surgery, even with incomplete resection of the epileptogenic lesion.
Lessons from the RAMPART study—and which is the best route of administration of benzodiazepines in status epilepticus
Authors: Silbergleit Robert , Lowenstein Daniel , Durkalski Valerie , Conwit Robin ,   on behalf of the NETT Investigators
Published: September 2013

Early treatment of prolonged seizures with benzodiazepines given intravenously by paramedics in the prehospital setting had been shown to be associated with improved outcomes, but the comparative efficacy and safety of an intramuscular (IM) route, which is faster and consistently achievable, was previously unknown. RAMPART (the Rapid Anticonvulsant Medication Prior to Arrival Trial) was a double‐blind randomized clinical trial to determine if the efficacy of intramuscular (IM) midazolam is noninferior by a margin of 10% to that of intravenous (IV) lorazepam in patients treated by paramedics for status epilepticus (SE). In children and adults with >5 min of convulsions and who are still seizing at paramedic arrival, midazolam administered by IM autoinjector was noninferior to IV lorazepam on the primary efficacy outcome with comparable safety. Patients treated with IM midazolam were more likely to have stopped seizing at emergency department (ED) arrival, without emergency medical services (EMS) rescue therapy, and were less likely to require any hospitalization or admission to an intensive care unit. Lessons from the RAMPART study's findings and potential implications on clinical practice, on the potential role of other routes of administration, on the effect of timing of interventions, and on future clinical trials are discussed.
SGE‐102: A novel therapy for refractory status epilepticus
Authors: Reddy Kiran , Reife Ross , Cole Andrew J.
Published: September 2013

Refractory status epilepticus (SE) has a mortality rate of up to 35%. Current treatment protocols for the treatment of SE begin with benzodiazepines and then proceed to conventional anticonvulsants. If seizures continue, SE is considered refractory (RSE) and treatment with anesthetic agents in undertaken. Twenty‐four h to 48 h after initiation of anesthesia with midazolam, pentobarbital or thiopental, or propofol, an attempt is made to wean the anesthetic. If this fails and seizures recur, SE is considered highly refractory (HRSE) and repeated attempts are undertaken. No randomized trial data are available to guide the choice of anesthetic agent in either RSE or HRSE status. Medication resistance in established SE is thought to result, in part, from internalization of synaptic γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors, making them unavailable for modulation. Neurosteroids act on both synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAA receptors, which are not internalized, and are therefore hypothesized to have a role in the treatment of RSE. SGE‐102 is a neurosteroid metabolite of progesterone with demonstrated anticonvulsant properties in animal seizure models. A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled adjunctive trial of SGE will include subjects randomized at the time that initial treatment with anesthesia is initiated. Subjects will receive midazolam and either SGE‐102 or placebo. Midazolam will be tapered and discontinued between hours 24 and 48. SGE‐102 or placebo will be continued through hour 120. The primary end point will be the difference in proportion of subjects from each arm who remain seizure free through hour 120. Secondary end points will include the proportion of subjects who are seizure free at hour 168, 2 days after discontinuation of the experimental agent. The study will be powered to have a 90% chance of detecting a clinically meaningful reduction in seizure recurrence at 120 h. Comprehensive safety and pharmacokinetic data will also be obtained during the course of the trial.
Valnoctamide and sec‐butyl‐propylacetamide (SPD) for acute seizures and status epilepticus
Authors: Shekh‐Ahmad Tawfeeq , Hen Naama , McDonough John H. , Yagen Boris , Bialer Meir
Published: September 2013

sec‐Butyl‐propylacetamide (SPD) is a one‐carbon homolog of valnoctamide (VCD), a chiral constitutional isomer of valproic acid's (VPA) corresponding amide valpromide. VCD has potential as a therapy in epilepsy including status epilepticus (SE) and neuropathic pain, and is currently being developed for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Both VCD and SPD possess two stereogenic carbons in their chemical structure. SPD possesses a unique and broad‐spectrum antiseizure profile superior to that of valproic acid (VPA) and better than that of VCD. In addition SPD blocked behavioral‐ and electrographic‐SE induced by pilocarpine and soman (organophosphate nerve gas) and afforded in vivo neuroprotection that was associated with cognitive sparing. VCD has activity similar to that of SPD in pilocarpine‐induced status epilepticus (SE), although at higher doses. The activity of SPD and VCD against SE is superior to that of diazepam in terms of rapid onset, potency, and ability to block SE when given 20–60 min after seizure onset. When administered 20 and 40 min after SE onset, SPD (100–174 mg/kg) produced long‐lasting efficacy (e.g., 4–8 h) against soman‐induced convulsive and electrographic SE in both rats and guinea pigs. SPD activity in the pilocarpine and soman‐induced SE models when administered 20–60 min after seizure onset, differentiates SPD from benzodiazepines and all other antiepileptic drugs .
Using Input from Realtors to Improve Housing Counseling Programs
Authors: Aaberg Jordan J. , Delgadillo Lucy M.
Published: September 2013

Realtors can be described as valuable, nonevaluator stake holders. Realtors can be involved in either motivating the public to become educated about the home buying process or Realtors might be involved in discouraging clients from becoming informed. The framework that guided this research was program evaluation theory. The authors believed that surveying Realtors would provide useful information for improving first‐time home buyer (FTHB) workshops and for increasing the credibility of housing counseling agencies. The results of a survey indicated that Realtors perceived FTHB workshops to be “somewhat useful.” However, a majority of the Realtors opposed mandatory FTHB workshops, perceiving them as one more barrier for sales. Responses to an open‐ended question showed that Realtors perceived the most troubling issue for FTHBs was experiencing underwriting delays when obtaining a mortgage. Providers of homeownership education can consider this information when evaluating their workshops to improve the effectiveness of FTHB education.
Older Adults in Multifamily Housing: Residential Satisfaction and Intention to Move
Authors: Kwon Hyun Joo , Beamish Julia O.
Published: September 2013

This study examined the relationship between residential satisfaction and intention to move among older adults living in multifamily housing based on Morris and Winter's theory of housing adjustment. Residents age 55 years and over living in market‐rate multifamily housing were recruited from a convenience sample (n = 431). Exploratory factor analysis, t‐test, analysis of variance, and multiple regressions were employed. Results revealed that those who were (i) older, healthier, retired, had higher incomes, were owners, living in larger units within newer buildings with elevators located in a city, and paid more monthly housing costs showed higher residential satisfaction; (ii) younger, nonmarried single, and renters were more likely to intend to move; and (iii) satisfied with the unit design and the multifamily community were less likely to intend to move. Findings support the theory of housing adjustment and suggest multifamily housing can be an appealing alternative for seniors.
Determinants of Defined Contribution Plan Deferral
Authors: Yao Rui , Ying Jie , Micheas Lada
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study was to examine the trend of defined contribution (DC) plan deferrals before and after the Great Recession. The investment principle of “buying when prices are low” suggests that DC plan deferral should increase during years when portfolio returns are low. The sample for this study consisted of eligible DC plan participants in the 2004, 2007, and 2010 Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF). The dependent variable was the elective deferral to the DC plan expressed as a percentage of the maximum amount allowed. The descriptive statistics showed that about half of respondents deferred <20% of their maximum allowable elective deferral, about a quarter of respondents deferred between 20% and 40%, and only a little more than 7% of respondents maximized their DC plan deferral in 2004 and 2007. However, the deferral rates dropped dramatically in 2010. The results of ordered logistic regression showed that respondents who had more education, were in excellent health, had more income, were willing to take investment risk, were allowed to borrow from the DC plan, were allowed to withdraw from the DC plan, and were homeowners without a mortgage were more likely to make a larger deferral to the DC plan. In general, these results were applicable for the time period. The most important implication is that many respondents were contributing relatively small percentages of the amount possible in 2004 and 2007 and that contributions were even lower in 2010. Educators, employers, and financial advisors should help workers understand the importance of participating fully or to the extent possible when making contributions to their DC plans.
How to Be an Excellent Reviewer
Authors: Bednar Carolyn
Published: September 2013

This article will discuss what an editor expects for a quality review of a manuscript dealing with a research study. Reviewing a research paper requires more than academic knowledge and writing skills. It requires expert knowledge of the subject matter field plus expertise in research design and statistical methods.