bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduced looming sensitivity in primary school children with Developmental Co‐ordination Disorder
Authors: Purcell Catherine , Wann John P. , Wilmut Kate , Poulter Damian
Published: March 2012

Almost all locomotor animals are sensitive to optical expansion (visual looming) and for most animals this sensitivity is evident very early in their development. In humans there is evidence that responses to looming stimuli begin in the first 6 weeks of life, but here we demonstrate that as children become independent their perceptual acuity needs to be 50 to 100 times better than has been demonstrated in infants in order to be skilful at collision avoidance at a roadside. We have recently established that sensitivity to the detection of visual looming in 6‐ to 11‐year‐old children is significantly below that of adults (Wann, Poulter & Purcell, 2011). Here, using comparable methods, we explore looming detection sensitivity in children with Developmental Co‐ordination Disorder (DCD), who show broad patterns of impairment in visuo‐motor control. We presented visual simulations of approaching vehicles, scaled to represent different approach rates, to children with DCD aged between 6 and 11 years (n = 11) and typically developing age and gender matched controls (n = 11). Looming detection thresholds were measured under foveal and perifoveal viewing conditions, for isotropic expansion and isotropic expansion with simulated viewpoint motion. Our results show that there are situations in which children with DCD may fail to detect vehicles approaching at speeds in excess of 22 km/h, suggesting a developmental immaturity in looming sensitivity. This provides one of the first clear demonstrations of low‐level motion processing deficits in children with DCD. The decrement observed may give rise to potential errors in the road crossing behaviour of these children, whereby approaching vehicles could be perceived as stationary. These findings further contribute towards understanding the adverse statistic that children under 9 years of age are four times more likely than adults to be involved in a road accident as a pedestrian.
Building biases in infancy: the influence of race on face and voice emotion matching
Authors: Vogel Margaret , Monesson Alexandra , Scott Lisa S.
Published: March 2012

Early in the first year of life infants exhibit equivalent performance distinguishing among people within their own race and within other races. However, with development and experience, their face recognition skills become tuned to groups of people they interact with the most. This developmental tuning is hypothesized to be the origin of adult face processing biases including the other‐race bias. In adults the other‐race bias has also been associated with impairments in facial emotion processing for other‐race faces. The present investigation aimed to show perceptual narrowing for other‐race faces during infancy and to determine whether the race of a face influences infants’ ability to match emotional sounds with emotional facial expressions. Behavioral (visual‐paired comparison; VPC) and electrophysiological (event‐related potentials; ERPs) measures were recorded in 5‐month‐old and 9‐month‐old infants. Behaviorally, 5‐month‐olds distinguished faces within their own race and within another race, whereas 9‐month‐olds only distinguish faces within their own race. ERPs were recorded while an emotion sound (laughing or crying) was presented prior to viewing an image of a static African American or Caucasian face expressing either a happy or a sad emotion. Consistent with behavioral findings, ERPs revealed race‐specific perceptual processing of faces and emotion/sound face congruency at 9 months but not 5 months of age. In addition, from 5 to 9 months, the neural networks activated for sound/face congruency were found to shift from an anterior ERP component (Nc) related to attention to posterior ERP components (N290, P400) related to perception.
Enhancing the quality of peer review by reducing student “free riding”: Peer assessment with positive interdependence
Authors: Kao Gloria Yi‐Ming
Published: March 2012

Collaborative learning tasks have been hampered by problems of unequal participation such as the presence of a free rider or dominance by a member of a group. Researchers in the collaborative learning domain respond to these problems with approaches designed to establish personal accountability for each student and relations of positive interdependence between students. These two notions have been borrowed and integrated with the present approach, which is designed for use in both traditional and online peer assessment. The key assumption is that introducing a greater degree of positive interdependence and personal accountability into the assessment process may reduce or eliminate free riding, while with students performing their ratings individually, dominance is unlikely to be an issue.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

A number of studies have found generally positive results for peer assessment.

When implementing peer assessment, teachers are faced with a number of threats, including favoritism, unfairness, distortion of marking, low‐quality comments and a lack of engagement.

Numerous peer assessment tools have been developed to make assessment more fair for students.

What this paper adds

The focus of this paper is on countering the threats of carelessness and favoritism.

The paper describes an innovative approach called “Peer Assessment with Positive Interdependence” (PAPI), which was designed to counter these threats and enhance the overall quality of peer review.

The PAPI approach encourages students to take a broader and more comprehensive perspective during peer assessment, enhancing their ability as “critical assessors.”

Implications for practice and/or policy

PAPI enables students to benefit from the known advantages of peer assessment while minimizing threats to its effectiveness.

PAPI makes it possible to target particular instructional goals, through the use of different weightings at different stages of the learning process.

In particular, if teaching a class in which most students are “quality achievers” with only a few “critical assessors” teachers might adjust the weightings to promote the development of critical thinking skills.

Conversely, if the class contains a high number of “critical assessors” but only a small number of “quality achievers,” the weightings could be adjusted to focus more on the individual assignments.
Peer tutoring with the aid of the Internet
Authors: Evans Michael J , Moore Jeffrey S
Published: March 2012

While the positive effects of peer tutoring in a face‐to‐face classroom are well documented, studies of computer‐aided peer tutoring are less common. However, such exercises have the potential to introduce additional student–student interaction in distance, online and blended courses. Additionally, technology can provide both students and instructors with unprecedented amounts of information related to tutor competency and methods. With these ideas in mind, we have developed a web‐based peer‐tutoring system called Opal (Online Peer‐Assisted Learning) for use in problem‐based undergraduate courses. Tutoring interactions on Opal use problems as both contexts for discussion and enforcers of tutor competency—that is, each interaction is based on a single problem, and students must demonstrate competency by answering the problem correctly on a computer before they become eligible to teach it. Based on social network analysis methods and a student assessment of learning gains survey, the introduction of this method of peer tutoring has had a positive effect on student–student interaction and student learning in our course and may have broad implications for peer tutoring in courses that involve digital problem solving as a key component.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Traditional peer tutoring improves student motivation, learning and persistence and has a positive effect on student–student interaction.

Reciprocal peer‐tutoring designs, in which students tutor one another without defined tutor and tutee roles, benefit from structured designs with concrete rewards.

Tutor competency is a significant issue for peer‐tutoring programs, as students respond negatively when their tutors are unqualified to teach.

What this paper adds

Tracking and facilitating peer‐tutoring interactions through the web is possible using a website we have developed.

Within our system, tutoring eligibility is tied to digital problem solving (we call this approach “gated”). The digitally gated approach maximizes tutor competency without significant instructor labor.

Use of the system improved student–student interaction in our course and helped facilitate student learning, as measured by the Student Assessment of Learning Gains survey.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Courses involving significant amounts of digital problem solving may benefit from peer‐tutoring exercises, particularly with respect to student–student interactions.

Web‐based interfaces for peer tutoring provide unprecedented tracking capabilities and allow instructors to structure peer tutoring exercises in new ways with minimal effort.

Instructors should look to technology not just as a means for conveying content, but also as a way to connect students to one another.
What do the numbers say? The influence of motivation and peer feedback on students’ behaviour in online discussions
Authors: Xie Kui
Published: March 2012

Students’ non‐posting behaviour in online discussions is often neglected in educational research. However, it can be a potential indicator of student learning. This study examined the relationships between motivation, peer feedback and students’ posting and non‐posting behaviours in online discussions in a distance learning class. Fifty‐seven college students participated in collaborative learning activities through online discussions. Their posting and non‐posting behavioural data were tracked automatically in the discussion system. Results show that students spent a significant amount of time participating in non‐posting activities. Motivation and peer feedback predicted both posting and non‐posting behaviours in online discussions.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Content analysis has been widely accepted as a common approach for analysing student interaction in online discussions, but this analytical method has limitations.

Students’ behaviour in online discussions including both posting and non‐posting behaviour. However, non‐posting behaviour is often neglected in investigating student online learning.

Students’ motivation and peer feedback have been proven as critical factors that influence students’ behaviour in online discussions. However, most empirical studies documented the significant effects of motivation and peer feedback only on posting behaviour.

What this paper adds

This study provides empirical evidence that the numeric data collected from an online system can be used as an important data source for analysing students’ posting and non‐posting behaviour in online discussions.

This study provides empirical evidence that demonstrates the significance of non‐posting behaviour in online discussions.

This study provides empirical evidence that demonstrates the significant effects of motivation on both posting and non‐posting behaviour in online discussions.

Implications for practice and/or policy

System designers should consider adding system features to capture both posting and non‐posting behaviour and mirror them back to teachers and students.

Teachers should design interventions to promote students’ feeling of self‐competence and autonomy in online discussions.

Teachers should encourage peer feedback and peer evaluation in online learning activities.

System designers may incorporate peer evaluation mechanism (eg., peer rating) in online learning systems to enable an additional channel for peer feedback.
Should Firms Go “Beyond Profits”? Milton Friedman versus Broad CSR1
Authors: SCHWARTZ MARK S. , SAIIA DAVID
Published: March 2012

When attempting to articulate the nature and scope of corporate social responsibility (CSR), a variety of opinions emerge. The primary CSR issue appears to be: Should firms go “beyond profits”? In order to address this normative question, this article will explore the theoretical underpinnings of CSR and its practical application. Part one of the paper begins by discussing common CSR definitions. Part two outlines the CSR debate in terms of the “narrow view” of CSR (as represented by Milton Friedman) versus the “broad view” (i.e., beyond profits). Part three applies both the narrow and broad approaches to CSR in analyzing two classic business and society cases: (1) the Ford Pinto; and (2) Merck's river blindness pill. The article concludes with a proposed synthesis of the CSR approaches discussed.
Brown, Governor of California v Plata
Authors: Rogan Mary
Published: March 2012

This case note examines the controversial decision of the US Supreme Court which, by a majority of 5:4 held that California should reduce its prison population as overcrowding levels gave rise to cruel and unusual punishment. The implications of the case for the interpretation of when prisoners' rights under the Eighth Amendment are breached, the separation of powers are discussed; the possible impact on prison rates in the USA is also examined.
The socio‐emotional needs of children with dyslexia in different educational settings in Ireland
Authors: Casserly Ann Marie
Published: March 2012

This paper reports on a four‐year research project examining the experiences of children with dyslexia in mainstream schools and reading schools/classes. The focus of this paper is on the socio‐emotional effects of dyslexia on a group of children attending a reading school/class for a specific duration before returning to mainstream. The findings suggest that while the primary focus of attending such a placement is to attain greater levels of literacy, other gains such as increased positive socio‐emotional manifestations and confidence are also evident. Therefore, the emotional elements of learning must work in tandem with the academic elements in helping children with dyslexia access the curriculum in full. The roles of attribution, motivational and expectancy theories are explored and how a comprehensive understanding of these theories can help teachers explain and respond to the exhibited behaviours of children with reading difficulties.
Challenging established narratives on soil erosion and shifting cultivation in Laos
Authors: Lestrelin Guillaume , Vigiak Olga , Pelletreau Aurélie , Keohavong Bounmy , Valentin Christian
Published: March 2012

The official environmental discourse in Laos describes a “chain of degradation” stretching from upland shifting cultivation, increased runoff and soil erosion to the siltation of wetlands and reservoirs. This perspective has had wide‐ranging impacts on rural development policy which, in the uplands, has long favoured forest conservation over agriculture. Integrating soil erosion and water sediment data with local perceptions of land degradation in an upland village of northern Laos, this study tests the validity of the official environmental discourse. Biophysical measurements made in a small agricultural catchment indicate a significant correlation between the spatial extent of cultivation and soil erosion rates. However, sediment yields recorded at the outlet of the catchment highlight relatively low levels of off‐site sediment exportation. Furthermore, farmers' perceptions suggest that local land degradation issues and crop yield declines could be less related to soil erosion than to agricultural land shortage, increased weed competition, and fertility losses resulting from the intensification of shifting cultivation. The study concludes that a better understanding and management of land degradation issues can be achieved by developing more inclusive and scientifically‐informed approaches to environmental perceptions and narratives.
A disaggregated emissions inventory for Taiwan with uses in hybrid input‐output life cycle analysis (IO‐LCA)
Authors: Liu Chia‐Hao , Lenzen Manfred , Murray Joy
Published: March 2012

This paper reports on a life‐cycle analysis (LCA) of Taiwan's “agriculture and forestry”, “crude petroleum, coal and natural gas extraction” and “electricity generation” sectors, revealing for the first time Taiwan's CO2 and CH4 emissions inventories and matching Taiwan's input‐output sectors. Integrated hybrid input‐output life cycle analysis is used to disaggregate the electricity generation sector into nuclear, hydro, gas, oil and coal, and cogeneration. Results show that the fossil‐fuel‐related electricity sub‐sectors have higher CO2 emissions intensity than the remaining sectors in the economy and that the “paddy rice” sector is Taiwan's most CH4‐intensive sector, making rice cultivation an important source of CH4 emissions. This work is vital to sound policy decisions concerning power generation, coal, and agriculture and forestry at the national level.
Variation in implementation of corporate social responsibility practices in emerging economies' firms: A survey of Chilean fruit exporters
Authors: Klerkx Laurens , Villalobos Pablo , Engler Alejandra
Published: March 2012

As in many sectors in emerging economies, the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become important for exporting agri‐food firms in view of their integration in global supply chains. The purpose of this research was to assess the implementation by Chilean fruit exporters of CSR practices that go beyond minimum legal requirements. The principal results are that, although socio‐economic components of CSR such as poverty reduction and socially just working conditions receive much attention, firms consider comprehensive environmental practices as less important. The results also indicate a slightly higher implementation of comprehensive CSR practices by large firms as compared to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). The main conclusion is that, although CSR is increasingly considered by Chilean firms, among SMEs in particular, more attention needs to be paid to raising awareness among managers about CSR practices and to providing assistance in their implementation. This supports findings on CSR implementation in other emerging economies that an active role of civil society and industry organizations is key and that targeted support strategies are needed to install a holistic awareness of CSR and help firms to improve on those aspects of CSR that are relatively underdeveloped.
Interleukin‐15 suppresses hepatitis B virus replication via IFN‐β production in a C57BL/6 mouse model
Authors: Yin Wenwei , Xu Long , Sun Rui , Wei Haiming , Tian Zhigang
Published: March 2012

Background

Interleukin‐15 (IL‐15) is a pleiotropic cytokine known to modulate both innate and adaptive immunity. It is suggested that IL‐15 may play an important role in the regulation of immune response to hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Aims

We investigated whether IL‐15 could modulate the immune response to HBV.

Methods

A mouse model for HBV tolerance was established by hydrodynamical injection of pAAV/HBV1.2 plasmid into C57BL/6 mice. This HBV‐carrier mouse was simultaneously hydrodynamically injected with either an IL‐15‐expression plasmid pLIVE‐IL‐15 or a mock control vector pLIVE‐EGFP. The serum levels of HBsAg and HBeAg were measured by radioimmunoassay.

Results

Hydrodynamic injection of the plasmid pLIVE‐IL‐15 resulted in sustained high level of IL‐15 in mouse serum, along with the markedly decreased serum HBsAg and HBeAg titres and liver HBV DNA levels. IL‐15 also induced anti‐HBV activity in T cell‐ and B cell‐deficient Rag1−/− mice. Interestingly, despite an increase in NK cell numbers in both spleen and liver of IL‐15 treated mice, the anti‐HBV effect of IL‐15 was neither dependent on presence of NK cells nor on production of IFN‐γ. Furthermore, IL‐15 could exert anti‐HBV function independent of the common IL‐2γcR. Lastly, we found that IFN‐β expression in the liver and serum was significantly up‐regulated by liver expression of IL‐15, and blockade of IFN‐β function abrogated the anti‐HBV activity of IL‐15.

Conclusions

Liver over‐expression of IL‐15 may suppress HBV replication in an IFN‐β‐dependent manner.
Impaired cutaneous wound healing in transforming growth factor‐β inducible early gene1 knockout mice
Authors: Hori Keijiro , Ding Jie , Marcoux Yvonne , Iwashina Takashi , Sakurai Hiroyuki , Tredget Edward E.
Published: March 2012

Transforming growth factor‐β inducible early gene (TIEG) is induced by transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and acts as the primary response gene in the TGF‐β/Smad pathway. TGF‐β is a multifunctional growth factor that affects dermal wound healing; however, the mechanism of how TGF‐β affects wound healing is still not well understood because of the complexity of its function and signaling pathways. We hypothesize that TIEG may play a role in dermal wound healing, with involvement in wound closure, contraction, and reepithelialization. In this study, we have shown that TIEG1 knockout (TIEG1–/–) mice have a delay in wound closure related to an impairment in wound contraction, granulation tissue formation, collagen synthesis, and reepithelialization. We also found that Smad7 was increased in the wounds and appeared to play a role in this wound healing model in TIEG1–/– mice.
Religious Objection to Cantharidin Use in Jain Patients
Authors: Patel Devika , Shwayder Tor
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  We report a case of a Jain family that was upset with the use of cantharidin for treatment of molluscum contagiosum for religious reasons.
Intercostal Insertion of Veress Needle for Canine Laparoscopic Procedures: A Cadaver Study
Authors: Doerner Judith , Fiorbianco Valentina , Dupré Gilles
Published: March 2012

Objective

To record and compare the frequency of organ penetration after insertion of a Veress needle (VN) in 6 different intercostal spaces (ICS) for creation of pneumoperitoneum in canine cadavers.

Study Design

Descriptive study.

Animals

Canine cadavers (n = 15).

Methods

In 15 cadavers positioned in dorsal recumbency, VN insertion in the right and left 8th–10th ICS was performed, the abdomen insufflated, and VN position and any visceral penetration recorded. The frequency of viscus penetration was assessed in all insertion sites.

Results

In cadavers, the right 9th ICS was associated with the lowest number of organ penetrations after VN insertion.

Conclusion

In cadavers, the position associated with the lowest frequency of penetrating any intraabdominal structure was the 9th ICSon the right side.
Use of a Laparoscopic Retrieval Device for Urolith Removal through a Perineal Urethrotomy
Authors: Menéndez Inés Martín , Fitch Gareth
Published: March 2012

Objective

To report the use of a laparoscopic retrieval device for removal of uroliths via a perineal urethrotomy.

Study Design

Case report.

Animals

A 12‐year‐old Konenklijk Warmbloed Paardenstamboek Nederland (KWPN) gelding and a 15‐year‐old Holsteiner gelding.

Methods

Perineal urethrotomy was performed on 2 standing sedated geldings and the urolith was removed using a laparoscopic retrieval device.

Results

In both cases, uroliths were removed successfully with no short‐ or long‐term complications. The larger of the 2 uroliths measured 6 cm in length and 4.6 cm in width.

Conclusions

Removal of a urolith via a perineal urethrotomy using a laparoscopic retrieval device was an expedient and minimally traumatic method that obviated the need for fragmentation before removal.
Effect of Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy on Femorotibial Subluxation:In VivoAnalysis during Standing
Authors: Kim Stanley E. , Lewis Daniel D. , Pozzi Antonio
Published: March 2012

Objective

To assess the effect of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) on femorotibial subluxation during standing in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) insufficiency.

Study Design

Prospective clinical study.

Animals

Fifteen dogs weighing 20–45 kg with unilateral completeCrCLinsufficiency.

Methods

Force‐platform analysis, and lateral weight‐bearing radiographs of the affected stifle were acquired preoperatively, 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. The distance between the origin and insertion of theCrCL(CrCLd) was measured on each radiograph and compared between time points usingANOVA. Lateral radiographs of the non‐weight‐bearing affected stifle and weight‐bearing contralateral normal stifle were acquired preoperatively, andCrCLdwas compared with a paired t‐test. Dogs were grouped according to medial meniscal status (intact or hemimeniscectomy) andCrCLdwas compared within each group usingANOVA.

Results

No difference was observed inCrCLdbetween the non‐weight‐bearing affected stifle and the contralateral stifle (P= .994). That is, femorotibial joint alignment in the affected stifle when non‐weight‐bearing was considered normal. Preoperatively in the affected stifle,CrCLdduring weight‐bearing was 6.3 ± 2.4 mm longer than normal (P< .001). Postoperative weight‐bearingCrCLdin dogs with intact menisci at all time points was not statistically different from normal;CrCLdat 1 (P= .014) and 6 months (P= .005) postoperatively was longer than normal in dogs with hemimeniscectomy.

Conclusions

TPLOdoes not consistently resolve femorotibial subluxation during standing in dogs withCrCLinsufficiency. The medial meniscus appears to be an important contributor to stability in stifles treated byTPLO.
Evaluation of Osteoarthritis in Cats: Novel Information from a Pilot Study
Authors: Guillot Martin , Moreau Maxim , d'Anjou Marc‐André , Martel‐Pelletier Johanne , Pelletier Jean‐Pierre , Troncy Eric
Published: March 2012

Objective

To describe structural changes associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in cats and to quantifyOA‐associated disability using functional evaluations.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional pilot study with longitudinal data.

Animals

Normal cats (n= 2) and coxofemoral jointOAcats (n= 4) were evaluated by physical examination, radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Structural changes related toOAwere scored using computed radiographs (CR) andMRI. Functional evaluation consisted of podobarometric gait analyses performed using a pressure‐sensitive mattress and motor activity assessments using collar‐attached, accelerometer‐based activity sensors.

Results

Structural scores for the coxofemoral jointOA‐related lesions were lower in normal cats thanOAcats forMRI(P= .07). Use ofMRIallowed for whole‐organ assessment of the coxofemoral joint. Pelvic limb peak vertical ground reaction force (PVF) was higher in normal cats thanOAcats (P= .10). During the night, motor activity was greater in normal cats thanOAcats (P= .04).PVFwas positively correlated with mean motor activity (Spearman coefficient [Rho] = 0.83,P= .04) and negatively correlated with age andMRIstructural score (Rho = −0.93 and −0.79,P< .01 and .06, respectively).

Conclusions

This study provides the first description ofOA‐related lesions in cats usingMRI. Gait analysis and accelerometry should be considered as objective tools to characterizeOA‐associated disability, although these assessments were weakly correlated with structural changes.
Expected Frequency of Use and Proficiency of Core Surgical Skills in Entry‐Level Veterinary Practice: 2009ACVSCore Surgical Skills Diplomate Survey Results
Authors: Smeak Daniel D. , Hill Lawrence N. , Lord Linda K. , Allen L. Clare V.
Published: March 2012

Objectives

ACVS Diplomates were surveyed to identify a complete list of core surgical skills, determine the expected frequency of use of these skills, and ascertain the level of skills proficiency expected of entry‐level practicing veterinarians.

Study Design

Internet‐based survey.

Sample Population

Randomly chosenACVS Diplomates (n = 750).

Methods

Rating scale items were used to construct the main portion of the survey with 26 skills that were scored by participants based on rankings of proficiency expected of entry‐level veterinarians, as well as expected frequency of use of these skills. Additional demographic questions were included to gather information regarding gender, practice type, year of veterinary school, year ofACVSmembership, job description, primary surgical discipline, practice location, average number of procedures performed on a weekly basis, and number of new graduates mentored in the last 5 years.

Results

Of 337Diplomates (44.9%) who responded to the survey, >60% expected entry‐level graduates to have good skills with minimal supervision or complete skills for 21 of the 26 skills categories listed. More than 60% of respondents ranked 7 skills with a lower frequency score (seldom or occasionally use). Orthopedic instrument handling and fixation skills as well as electrosurgical and laser skills received some of the lowest expected proficiency and frequency rankings. No additional skills categories were identified in the open‐ended survey questions.

Conclusions

A complete list of core surgical skills was identified. There was broad consensus between boarded surgeons irrespective of their practice type, experience, or discipline for ranked proficiency and frequency scores among the core surgical skills expected of entry‐level veterinarians.
Assessment of Echocardiographic Left Atrial Size: Accuracy of M‐Mode and Two‐Dimensional Methods and Prediction of Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Stefano Gregory T. , Zhao Hong , Schluchter Mark , Hoit Brian D.
Published: March 2012

Background: Despite the American Society of Echocardiography recommendation to use left atrial volume indexed for body surface area (LAVI) for quantification of left atrial size, a variety of methods are used in clinical practice. Our objectives were to evaluate the accuracy of M‐mode and two‐dimensional (2D) echocardiographic LA size estimates to LAVI and to determine their ability to predict left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Methods: In 150 consecutive patients, LA diameter (LAD), LA diameter indexed for body surface area (LADI), LA area in the apical two‐ and four‐chamber views (LAA 2c and LAA 4c), biplane area–length LA volume (LAV), and LAVI were obtained. The accuracy of these methods to quantify LA enlargement by LAVI, correlation with clinical parameters, and ability to act as a surrogate for diastolic dysfunction were determined using Pearson correlation coefficients along with univariate and multiple logistic analysis. Results: The true degree of LA size (with LAVI as standard) was identified by LAD in 45%, LADI in 42%, LAA 4c in 43%, and LAA 2c in 41%. All methods showed positive correlation with age, E/E′, mitral regurgitation, and right atrial size and negative correlation with ejection fraction. LAVI was the strongest method to predict any (c = 0.655, P = 0.012) or moderate–severe (P = 0.856 and P < 0.001) diastolic dysfunction. All methods have greater capacity to identify moderate or severe diastolic dysfunction than any degree of diastolic dysfunction alone. Conclusions: One‐dimensional and 2D methods inaccurately quantify LA size and are inferior to LAVI to predict diastolic dysfunction. (Echocardiography 2012;29:379‐384)
Trastuzumab‐Induced Cardiotoxicity: The Role of Two‐Dimensional Myocardial Strain Imaging in Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Stoodley Paul , Tanous David , Richards David , Meikle Steve , Clarke Jillian , Hui Rina , Thomas Liza
Published: March 2012

A 45‐year‐old female breast cancer patient developed heart failure during adjuvant trastuzumab therapy. Her initial left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 39% and corresponding global longitudinal and circumferential systolic strain measurements were also significantly reduced. Trastuzumab was ceased and supportive cardiac therapy commenced. The ensuing LVEF and systolic strain measurements showed consistent improvement so that trastuzumab was recommenced (while supportive cardiac therapy continued). At this point, reduced circumferential systolic strain with preserved LVEF was observed. Subsequent echocardiograms revealed further reductions in circumferential and longitudinal systolic strain without reductions in LVEF. (Echocardiography 2012;29:E137‐E140)
Glycosylated Hemoglobin and Outcomes in Diabetic Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction after Successful Revascularization with Stent Placement: Findings from the Guthrie Health Off‐Label Stent (GHOST) Investigators
Authors: SINGLA ANAND , ORSHAW PAMELA , BOURA JUDY , HARJAI KISHORE J.
Published: March 2012

Objective:

We evaluated the influence of glycemic control on cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent placement.

Background:

In patients presenting with AMI, diabetic status confers adverse cardiovascular outcomes after PCI. However, the influence of glycemic control on outcomes after successful PCI is less well studied.

Methods:

We examined 231 consecutive diabetes mellitus (DM) patients with AMI who underwent successful primary PCI and had evaluation of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) from 30 days before to 90 days after AMI. Patients were categorized in 2 groups, controlled DM with HbA1c ≤ 7.0 (N = 83, 36%) and uncontrolled DM with HbA1c > 7.0 (N = 148, 64%). We assessed 12‐month cardiovascular outcomes in study groups.

Results:

Uncontrolled diabetics were younger, tended to be less hypertensive, and had higher baseline glomerular filtration rate and final vessel diameter compared to controlled diabetics. Uncontrolled DM patients had similar major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; composite of all‐cause death, MI, target vessel revascularization [TVR], and stent thrombosis [ST]; 20% vs. 30%, log‐rank P = 0.54), death (8.8% vs. 12%, P = 0.40), MI (8.8% vs. 9.6%, P = 0.76), TVR (9.5% vs. 8.4%, P = 0.95), and ST (3.4% vs. 4.8%, P = 0.54) as the controlled diabetics. In Cox regression analysis, after adjustment for baseline differences, glycemic control had no independent influence on study outcomes.

Conclusion:

Glycemic control, determined by HbA1c, does not seem to influence cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic patients with AMI after successful stent placement. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:262–269)
Moisture Expansivity of Fired‐Clay Ceramics
Authors: Hall Christopher , Hoff William D.
Published: March 2012

Long‐term progressive moisture expansion occurs generally in fired‐clay ceramics. A new moisture expansivity property is defined in terms of the (time)1/4 power‐law model of the kinetics of long‐term moisture expansion. We show how this quantity may be determined and demonstrate its usefulness in relation with manufacture and performance. We draw particular attention to the temperature dependence of the moisture expansivity and associated practical consequences.
Mechanical Properties and Crystallization Behavior of GeS2–Sb2S3–In2S3 Chalcogenide Glass
Authors: Ying Lei , Lin Changgui , Nie Qiuhua , Li Zhuobin , Xu Yinsheng , Chen Feifei , Dai Shixun
Published: March 2012

54GeS2–36Sb2S3–10In2S3 glass‐ceramics were prepared by heat‐treating the base glass above Tg for different durations. The results of Raman spectra and XRD patterns show that the first precipitated crystals during the heat treatment are In2S3 and the crystallization of the Sb2S3 and GeS2 subsequently occurs. Bulk samples heat‐treated at 295°C for different heating rates and durations are used to study the crystallization mechanism and evolution of the three crystallization peaks (CPs). It is found that three CPs partly overlap with each other and then separate with increasing heat‐treating durations.
Theoretical Prediction of Elastic Stiffness and Minimum Lattice Thermal Conductivity of Y3Al5O12, YAlO3 and Y4Al2O9
Authors: Zhan Xun , Li Zhen , Liu Bin , Wang Jingyang , Zhou Yanchun , Hu Zijun
Published: March 2012

Combining Clarke's model with first‐principles calculation of average sound velocity, the minimum lattice thermal conductivities (κmin) of Y3Al5O12 (YAG), YAlO3 (YAP) and Y4Al2O9 (YAM) are predicted to be 1.59, 1.61, and 1.10 W·(m·K)−1, respectively. The weak Y–O polyhedra provide “weak zones” that scattering phonons and lead to the low κmin of ternary Y–Al–O compounds. In addition, the extremely low κmin of YAM is attributed to its higher levels of local disorder of crystal structure and weaker chemical bonding compared with those of YAG and YAP. Inspired by theoretical predictions, dense and phase‐pure YAM is synthesized and the experimental thermal conductivity is only 1.56 W·(m·K)−1at 1273 K. Finally, YAM is highlighted as a potential thermal barrier material for its low thermal conductivities at temperatures from 473 to 1273 K.
A review assessing the quality of reporting of risk factor research in implant dentistry using smoking, diabetes and periodontitis and implant loss as an outcome: critical aspects in design and outcome assessment
Authors: Rocchietta Isabella , Nisand David
Published: March 2012

Aim

To assess, using a structured review, the quality of reporting (design and outcome assessment) of risk factor research using the STROBE statements. The outcome was implant loss, and the risk factors assessed were smoking, diabetes and periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Literature search was performed individually for each of the risk factors and the outcome using three sets of database: (a) MEDLINE, (b) references derived from relevant reviews and (c) references derived from identified manuscripts. Only case–control and cohort studies were included and assessed using the STROBE statements.

Results

A total of 104 papers were retrieved, three of which were found to be cohort studies (one in the diabetes and two in the periodontitis review) and none was a case–control study. A total of 101 of 104 papers were case series or cross‐sectional study.

Conclusions

Risk factor research in implant dentistry is mostly comprised of case series studies. These are used to generate hypotheses, but are the wrong tool to test these hypotheses. In the near future, well‐designed observational studies are needed and should be reported according to the proposed checklist.
Rehabilitation of muscle after injury – the role of anti‐inflammatory drugs
Authors: Mackey A. L. , Mikkelsen U. R. , Magnusson S. P. , Kjaer M.
Published: March 2012

Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely consumed among athletes worldwide in relation to muscle injury and soreness. This review aims to provide an overview of studies investigating their effects on skeletal muscle, in particular the repair processes in injured muscle. Muscle injury occurs in diverse situations and the nature of muscle injuries varies significantly, complicating extrapolations between experimental models and “real life.” Classical muscle strain injuries occur at the interphase between the muscle fibers and connective tissue, most often in the myotendinuous junction, whereas contusion or overload injury can damage both myofibers and intramuscular connective tissue. The role of NSAIDs in muscle repair is complicated by differences in injury models used, variables evaluated, and time point(s) selected for evaluations.

While the temporal pattern of the influence of NSAIDs on muscle repair is difficult to settle on, it appears that a potential beneficial effect of NSAIDs in the early phase after injury is not maintained in the long term, or is even negated by a long‐term repair deficit. At the cellular level, evidence exists for a negative influence of NSAIDs on the muscle stem cell population (satellite cells). At a structural level, it is known that muscle connective tissue undergoes significant remodeling during muscle regeneration, but the potential of NSAID exposure to alter this response in humans needs investigation.
Multiple Pregnancy Failures: An Immunological Paradigm
Authors: Matthiesen Leif , Kalkunte Satyan , Sharma Surendra
Published: March 2012

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA), three or more pregnancy losses prior to 20 weeks, occurs in about 1% of all pregnancies, 50% of RSA cases remain unexplained and unresolved. Recently, immune pathways have been implicated in the pathophysiology of RSA. Immune tolerance of the fetal–placental unit and placental angiogenesis are mandatory for a successful pregnancy outcome. Unscheduled dysregulation of the placental vasculature is thought to be the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying an array of pregnancy complications like infertility, miscarriage, pre‐eclampsia, and fetal growth restriction and death. Investigations on mechanisms and management of RSA are mired by substandard design and lack of optimal randomized clinical trials and have resulted in disagreement on guidelines for evaluation and treatments for patients with multiple pregnancy losses of unknown etiology. The present review focuses on evidence‐based research discussion with immunologic causes, and immune‐regulatory therapies recommended for helping patients with a history of RSA. We highlight data that might support revalidation of low molecular weight heparin as a protective therapy in RSA. Newly launched growth factors, GM‐CSF, and potentially novel agents to suppress inflammatory rejection, including regulatory T cells, human chorionic gonadotropin, and M‐CSF/IL‐10, may work in concert with tender‐loving‐care therapy and give hope to couples with multiple pregnancy losses.
Oral health status of elderly hospitalised psychiatric patients
Authors: Kossioni Anastassia E. , Kossionis George E. , Polychronopoulou Argy
Published: March 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2012.00633.x

Oral health status of elderly hospitalised psychiatric patients

Objectives:  This study investigated the oral health status of an elderly mentally ill population hospitalised in a psychogeriatric ward in Athens.

Materials and methods:  A structured interview recorded sociodemographic and dental data, and an oral examination recorded the status of oral tissues and the existing dentures. The patients’ medical records were examined by a hospital’s physician.

Results:  One hundred and eleven patients with a mean age of 73 years participated in the study. Almost half of them suffered from schizophrenia. Forty percent were completely edentulous but only 38.6% of them used a pair of dentures. The dentate had an average of 12.9 teeth, 50.7% of them had at least one decayed tooth, 44.8% needed at least one extraction, and only 26.7% had filled teeth. The dental hygiene was poor in 83.6% of the patients. More than 60% of the dentures had a defect. Multiple regression analyses showed that increasing age and dementia were significantly related to fewer remaining teeth, and the use of atypical antipsychotics was related to fewer caried teeth.

Conclusion:  The oral health of the elderly psychiatric patients was very poor. Access to dental care should improve, and the health care staff should be trained to identify oral problems.
RECONFIGURING SEX, GENDER, AND THE LAW OF MARRIAGE1
Authors: Widiss Deborah A.
Published: March 2012

This article brings together legal, historical, and social science research to analyze how couples allocate income‐producing and domestic responsibilities. It develops a framework—what I call the marriage equation—that shows how sex‐based classifications, (non‐sex‐specific) substantive marriage law, and gender norms interrelate to shape these choices. Constitutional decisions in the 1970s ended legal distinctions between the duties of husbands and wives but left largely in place both gender norms and substantive rights within marriage, tax, and benefits law that encourage specialization into breadwinning and caregiving roles. By permitting disaggregation of the marriage equation, the new reality of same‐sex marriage can serve as a natural experiment that should inform both study design and policy reform.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

This article shows that although marriage law no longer explicitly requires wives to provide domestic support and husbands to provide economic support, non‐sex‐specific aspects of the substantive law continue to encourage couples to specialize into breadwinning and caregiving rules.

Same‐sex marriage can serve as a natural experiment to expose the extent to which substantive marriage law—as opposed to gender norms—may encourage couples to specialize into breadwinning and caregiving roles.

Research on same‐sex marriage can help inform how best to achieve equality within all marriages and what is fair compensation for a dependent spouse in the event of a divorce.
SAME SEX, DIFFERENT RIGHTS: AMENDING U.S. IMMIGRATION LAW TO RECOGNIZE SAME‐SEX PARTNERS OF REFUGEES AND ASYLEES
Authors: Dunton Elise S.
Published: March 2012

Overcoming a long history of anti‐gay sentiment preserved in federal immigration law, the United States has made admirable advances during the past two decades in the protection it affords gay immigrants. Despite this promising progress, and in contrast to the practices of all other industrialized democracies, the United States remains firm in its refusal to federally recognize any form of same‐sex partnership, a decision which bears directly on those relationships considered valid for immigration purposes. The Uniting American Families Act (UAFA) represents the closest any proposed legislation has come to successfully granting immigration rights to gay immigrants. However, through its restrictive provisions, the UAFA fails to fully account for the needs of refugees, asylees, and their same‐sex partners. This Note argues that, while the UAFA is a step in the right direction, it does not go far enough to protect gay refugees and asylees. It further proposes that legislation be enacted which provides this unique segment of the immigrant population the opportunity to share their lives together, free from fear of persecution. It advocates for the use of the conjugal partner provision set out in Canada's Immigration and Refugee Protection Act as a template for changes to U.S. immigration law, thereby expanding the category of relationships viewed as valid for the purpose of immigration.
Outcomes post‐discharge from an early intervention in psychosis service
Authors: Dodgson Guy , Ross Louise , Tiffin Paul , Mitford Emma , Brabban Alison
Published: March 2012

Aim: To investigate the effectiveness of an early intervention in psychosis (EIP) service on engagement and hospital bed usage, post‐discharge. A secondary aim was to identify if there was a subgroup of patients with ‘poor outcomes’.

Method: A naturalistic study comparing engagement and hospital bed day usage of individuals who received treatment from an EIP service (n = 75) with those who presented before the service was established (n = 113).

Results: The EIP service demonstrated better engagement with service users in year 5 (P = 0.001). No significant differences were observed on hospital bed day usage. When ‘poor outcome’ cases were removed, a trend towards lower bed usage in EIP services emerged (P = 0.139).

Conclusion: EIP services improve engagement with service users. There was not a significant reduction in hospital bed usage. However, advantages could be masked by a relatively small number of individuals with ‘poor outcomes’.