bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oppositional defiant behavior toward adults and oppositional defiant behavior toward other children: evidence for two separate constructs with mothers’ and fathers’ ratings of Brazilian children
Authors: de Moura Marcela Alves , Leonard Burns G.
Published: November 2009

Background:  Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to determine if oppositional defiant behavior (ODB) toward adults and oppositional defiant behavior toward other children were constructs distinct from each other as well as from attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder–hyperactivity/impulsivity (ADHD‐HI), attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder–inattention (ADHD‐IN), and academic competence.

Methods:  Mothers and fathers rated the occurrence of the DSM‐IV oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptoms where the target was an adult (e.g., argues with adults) and the ODD symptoms where the target was another child (brothers, sisters, or peers) (e.g., argues with other children) along with ADHD‐IN, ADHD‐HI, and academic competence in a sample of 894 Brazilian children on the Portuguese version of the Child and Adolescent Disruptive Behavior Inventory (CADBI).

Results:  The ODB‐Adults’ and ODB‐Children’s factors showed invariance (i.e., equality of like item loadings, intercepts, residuals; as well as like factor variances, covariances, and means), convergent validity, and discriminant validity from each other as well as from ADHD‐IN, ADHD‐HI, and academic competence between mothers’ and fathers’ ratings.

Conclusions:  With the Portuguese parent version of the CADBI, the evidence indicated that ODB‐Adults and ODB‐Children represent two constructs rather than one. The distinction between ODB‐Adults and ODB‐Children allows for a more specific study of the development of ODB in children.
Confirmation and extension of association of blood lead with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and ADHD symptom domains at population‐typical exposure levels
Authors: Nigg Joel T. , Nikolas Molly , Mark Knottnerus G. , Cavanagh Kevin , Friderici Karen
Published: November 2009

Background:  Recent studies have suggested that child attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its symptom domains are related to blood lead level, even at background exposure levels typical in western countries. However, recent studies disagreed as to whether lead was related to inattention or hyperactivity‐impulsivity within the ADHD domain. More definitive evaluation of these questions was sought.

Methods:  Two hundred and thirty‐six (236) children aged 6–17 years participated (61 ADHD‐Combined type, 47 ADHD Predominantly Inattentive type, 99 non‐ADHD control, 29 unclassified borderline, situational, or not otherwise specified (NOS) cases). Formal diagnosis was reliably established by a best estimate procedure based on a semi‐structured clinical interview and parent and teacher ratings. Lead was assayed from whole blood using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with a method detection limit of .3 μg/dL.

Results:  Blood lead levels were slightly below United States and Western Europe population exposure averages, with a mean of .73 and a maximum of 2.2 μg/dL. This is the lowest level of blood lead ever studied in relation to ADHD. After statistical control for covariates including IQ and prenatal smoking exposure, blood lead was associated with ADHD‐combined type but not inattentive type. Parent and teacher report indicated association of blood lead with Conners cognitive problems, but only teacher report showed effects on DSM‐IV inattention symptoms. Blood lead was associated with hyperactivity‐impulsivity in parent report regardless of measurement method, whereas teacher report effects depended on child treatment history.

Conclusions:  These findings confirm that in children with typical US population lead exposure, careful identification of children with ADHD also identifies children with slightly elevated blood lead.
Characterisation of anti‐Listeria monocytogenes bacteriocins from Enterococcus faecium strains isolated from dairy products
Authors: MIRHOSSEINI MAHBOUBEH , NAHVI IRAJ , EMTIAZI GITI , TAVASSOLI MANOOCHEHR
Published: November 2009

Bacteriocin‐producing lactic acid bacteria were isolated from 34 samples of dairy products. Nine bacteriocin producers were phenotypically and genotypically identified as Enterococcus faecium. By means of PCR‐techniques, enterocin A was characterised in all of the nine bacteriocin‐producing Enterococcus isolates. Enterocin‐producing lactic acid bacteria were the most abundant in dairy products collected from different areas in Iran. Maximum bacteriocin production by Enterococcus faecium strains was detected in the stationary phase of growth. Bacteriocins produced by all isolates were found to have anti‐listerial activity in sterile milk. The purified bacteriocins were identified as <6.5 kDa peptide by sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel (SDS‐PAGE). The molecular weights of bacteriocins were found to be the same in all strains. This bacteriocin might be useful as a natural preservative.
Importance of membrane‐bound catechol‐O‐methyltransferase in L‐DOPA metabolism: a pharmacokinetic study in two types ofComtgene modified mice
Authors: Käenmäki M , Tammimäki A , Garcia‐Horsman JA , Myöhänen T , Schendzielorz N , Karayiorgou M , Gogos JA , Männistö PT
Published: November 2009

Background and purpose: Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) metabolizes compounds containing catechol structures and has two forms: soluble (S‐COMT) and membrane‐bound (MB‐COMT). Here we report the generation of a mouse line that expresses MB‐COMT but not S‐COMT. We compared the effects of deleting S‐COMT only or both COMT forms on the pharmacokinetics of oral L‐DOPA.

Experimental approach: L‐DOPA (10 mg·kg−1) and carbidopa (30 mg·kg−1) were given to mice by gastric tube, and samples were taken at various times. HPLC was used to measure L‐DOPA in plasma and tissue samples, and dopamine and its metabolites in brain. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were used to characterize the distribution of COMT protein isoforms.

Key results: Lack of S‐COMT did not affect the levels of L‐DOPA in plasma or peripheral tissues, whereas in the full COMT‐knock‐out mice, these levels were increased. The levels of 3‐O‐methyldopa were significantly decreased in the S‐COMT‐deficient mice. In the brain, L‐DOPA levels were not significantly increased, and dopamine was increased only in females. The total COMT activity in the S‐COMT‐deficient mice was 22–47% of that in the wild‐type mice. In peripheral tissues, female mice had lower COMT activity than the males.

Conclusions and implications: In S‐COMT‐deficient mice, MB‐COMT in the liver and the duodenum is able to O‐methylate about one‐half of exogenous L‐DOPA. Sexual dimorphism and activity of the two COMT isoforms seems to be tissue specific and more prominent in peripheral tissues than in the brain.
Development of Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices in China
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhu De‐Ming , Ding Wen‐Xiang
Published: November 2009

Myocardial dysfunction leading to low cardiac output syndrome is a common clinical pathophysiological state. Currently, the use of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is an essential aspect of the treatment of patients with cardiac failure. Several groups in China are engaged in the design and development of MCS devices. These devices can be classified as pulsatile, rotary, and total artificial heart (TAH). There are two types of pulsatile pump, which are driven by air (pneumatic). One of these pumps, the Luo‐Ye pump, has been used clinically for short‐term support since 1998. The other is a push‐plate left ventricular device, which has a variable rate mode. Various rotary devices are classified into axial and centrifugal pumps, depending on the impeller geometry. Most rotary pumps are based on the maglev principle, and some types have been used clinically. Others are still being studied in the laboratory or in animal experiments. Furthermore, certain types of total implantable pump, such as the UJS‐III axial pump and the UJS‐IV aortic valvo‐pump, have been developed. Only one type of TAH has been developed in China. The main constituents of this artificial heart are two axial pumps, two reservoir tanks mimicking the right and left atria, flow meters, two pressure gauges, and a resistance adaptor. Although the development of mechanical assist devices in China is still in a nascent stage, a number of different types of MCS devices are currently being studied.
Perioperative Monitoring of Thromboelastograph on Hemostasis and Therapy for Cyanotic Infants Undergoing Complex Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Cui Yongli , Hei Feilong , Long Cun , Feng Zhengyi , Zhao Ju , Yan Fuxia , Wang Yuhong , Liu Jinping
Published: November 2009

This study investigated features and treatments of perioperative coagulopathies in cyanotic infants with complex congenital heart disease (CCHD). Thirty‐six infants with cyanotic CCHD were involved and divided into two groups: In group H (n = 20), hematocrit (HCT) > 54%, and in group L (n = 16), HCT < 54%. Blood was sampled at anesthesia induction (T1), rewarming to 36°C (T2), after heparin neutralization (T3), and 4 h after operation (T4). The hemostatic changes were evaluated by thromboelastograph (TEG). After surgery, group H was treated with fibrinogen‐combined platelets (PLT), while group L was treated with PLT only. We observed the effect at T4. At T1, the hemostatic function in group H, deteriorating with the increase of HCT (P < 0.01), was obviously lower than that in group L (P < 0.01), but the PLT function was still complete. In group H, the hemostatic function at T2 decreased with a significant drop of PLT function (P <  0.01) and had little change of functional fibrinogen (Ffg) (P > 0.05). At T3, compared with T2, there were improvements in hemostatic function and Ffg (P < 0.01, respectively) without increase of PLT (P > 0.05) in group H. After therapy, PLT function in both groups restored to T1 level (P > 0.05); Ffg at T4 was significantly better than at T1 (P < 0.01) in group H, but Ffg at T4 with still normal function was lower than at T1 in group L (P < 0.01). Whole hemostatic function at T4 was back to normal and had no differences between two groups. So, we proposed that fibrinogen and PLT transfusion in combination should be better for infants with high HCT CCHD, but PLT alone might be enough for low HCT ones.
Flow Distribution During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Dependency on the Outflow Cannula Positioning
Authors: Kaufmann Tim A.S. , Hormes Marcus , Laumen Marco , Timms Daniel L. , Schmitz‐Rode Thomas , Moritz Anton , Dzemali Omer , Steinseifer Ulrich
Published: November 2009

Oxygen deficiency in the right brain is a common problem during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). This is linked to an insufficient perfusion of the carotid and vertebral artery. The flow to these vessels is strongly influenced by the outflow cannula position, which is traditionally located in the ascending aorta. Another approach however is to return blood via the right subclavian artery. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) study was performed for both methods and validated by particle image velocimetry (PIV). A 3‐dimensional computer aided design model of the cardiovascular (CV) system was generated from realtime computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging data. Mesh generation (CFD) and rapid prototyping (PIV) were used for the further model creation. The simulations were performed assuming usual CPB conditions, and the same boundary conditions were applied for the PIV validation. The flow distribution was analyzed for 55 cannula positions inside the aorta and in relation to the distance between the cannula tip and the vertebral artery branch for subclavian cannulation. The study reveals that the Venturi effect due to the cannula jet appears to be the main reason for the loss in cerebral perfusion seen clinically. It provides a PIV‐validated CFD method of analyzing the flow distribution in the CV system and can be transferred to other applications.
Intravascular Mechanical Cavopulmonary Assistance for Patients With Failing Fontan Physiology
Authors: Bhavsar Sonya S. , Kapadia Jugal Y. , Chopski Steven G. , Throckmorton Amy L.
Published: November 2009

To provide a viable bridge‐to‐transplant, bridge‐to‐recovery, or bridge‐to‐surgical reconstruction for patients with failing Fontan physiology, we are developing a collapsible, percutaneously inserted, magnetically levitated axial flow blood pump to support the cavopulmonary circulation in adolescent and adult patients. This unique blood pump will augment pressure and thus flow in the inferior vena cava through the lungs and ameliorate the poor hemodynamics associated with the univentricular circulation. Computational fluid dynamics analyses were performed to create the design of the impeller, the protective cage of filaments, and the set of diffuser blades for our axial flow blood pump. These analyses included the generation of pressure–flow characteristics, scalar stress estimations, and blood damage indexes. A quasi‐steady analysis of the diffuser rotation was also completed and indicated an optimal diffuser rotational orientation of approximately 12°. The numerical predictions of the pump performance demonstrated a pressure generation of 2–25 mm Hg for 1–7 L/min over 3000–8000 rpm. Scalar stress values were less than 200 Pa, and fluid residence times were found to be within acceptable ranges being less than 0.25 s. The maximum blood damage index was calculated to be 0.068%. These results support the continued design and development of this cavopulmonary assist device, building upon previous numerical work and experimental prototype testing.
The Rewarming Index Formula for Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Perfusion
Authors: Itoh Hideshi , Kasahara Shingo , Fujii Yasuhiro , Kotani Ysuhiro , Arai Sadahiko , Sano Shunji
Published: November 2009

Careful rewarming of perfusion blood following cardiopulmonary bypass surgery is critical to a successful outcome, but the optimal rewarming strategy is not clear. The purpose of this study was to derive a formula for a rewarming index (defined as [rewarming time × perfusion flow]/[body weight × body surface area]) that would enable the calculation of the ideal rewarming conditions for pediatric cardiopulmonary perfusion. We retrospectively investigated 220 pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass operations conducted from July 2005 to June 2008 in Okayama University Hospital, Japan. We determined the formula as Φ = (T × Q)/(R × S) = |0.9127P − 0.0152|, where Φ =  rewarming index, T = rewarming time (min), Q = perfusion volume (L), R = body weight (kg), S = body surface area (m2), and P = temperature gap (). The formula will help those who perform pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass surgery to establish ideal perfusion flow conditions and to control physiological temperature during rewarming.
Gestión e Interpretación de Datos Obtenidos en Ensayos Clínicos de Manejo del Dolor
Authors: Theodore Brian R. , Gatchel Robert J.
Published: November 2009

El desarrollo de un ensayo clínico comprende varias etapas de planificación y ejecución. Los tres mayores componentes del ensayo clínico son el manejo o gestión de los datos, el control de calidad que asegure la integridad de los datos, y la interpretación de los datos al finalizar el ensayo. Aunque cada proceso se distingue por diferentes actividades, nivel de esfuerzo y conocimientos necesarios, los tres procesos están fuertemente vinculados. Métodos de gestión de datos incluyen el proceso de entrada de datos y un planteamiento completo y organizado de control de calidad. En este artículo se elaboran ciertas guías y recomendaciones para encarar el control de calidad y resolver problemas de ocurrencia común en la gestión de datos clínicos, como son la ausencia de datos, la invalidez de casos, la presencia de “outliers” (sujetos atípicos o inusuales), y el incumplimiento de supuestos distribucionales en los análisis estadísticos. Para facilitar la interpretación de los datos, se examinan condiciones necesarias para permitir inferencias causales. Se destaca la necesidad de tener en cuenta las características basales de la muestra de pacientes, como extensión de los principios de validez interna de un estudio. Se examinan las amenazas más communes a la validez de las conclusiones estadísticas, como la inflación de errores de Tipo I y el problema de las pruebas sobredominantes. Finalmente se considera el concepto de tamaño del efecto, importante complemento al concepto de significancia estadística, y cómo se pueden interpretar los distintos métodos de medición de tamaño del efecto en el marco de un ensayo clínico.
Prion reduction of red blood cells: impact on component quality
Authors: Wiltshire Michael , Thomas Stephen , Scott Janet , Hicks Vicky , Haines Martin , Cookson Phil , Garwood Margaret , Cardigan Rebecca
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: A filter has been developed (P‐Capt, MacoPharma) to remove infectious prions from red blood cells (RBCs). We sought to assess 1) its operational use, 2) the quality of filtered components, and 3) whether filtration resulted in any significant changes to blood group antigens.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A total of 272 leukoreduced RBC units, including units processed using “top‐and‐top” (TAT) and “bottom‐and‐top” (BAT) methods, were prion reduced using the P‐Capt filter. All RBCs were assessed using standard in vitro tests of RBC quality. Changes to blood group antigen expression were also investigated, including the exposure of cryptantigens and the ability of filtered RBCs to be crossmatched.

RESULTS: Ninety‐nine percent of TAT units and 58% of BAT units had a hemoglobin (Hb) content of more than 40 g. Hemolysis increased immediately after filtration, but units remained within UK specification throughout storage. Prion reduction resulted in the loss of 7 to 8 g of Hb and reductions in hematocrit of 6% to 9% due to the filter containing 40 mL of saline, adenine, glucose, and mannitol. Other RBC quality data, including extracellular potassium, 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate, and adenosine triphosphate were similar to historical control data. There was no evidence of any immunologic changes of clinical relevance to the RBC membrane after filtration.

CONCLUSIONS: Prion filtration does not appear to have a detrimental effect on basic in vitro measures of RBC quality or on blood group antigens as assessed by in vitro methods. However, prion filtration using the P‐Capt filter results in loss of Hb.
The Use of Multizone Models to Estimate an Airborne Chemical Contaminant Generation and Decay Profile: Occupational Exposures of Hairdressers to Vinyl Chloride in Hairspray During the 1960s and 1970s
Authors: Sahmel Jennifer , Unice Ken , Scott Paul , Cowan Dallas , Paustenbach Dennis
Published: November 2009

Vinyl chloride (VC) was used as a propellant in a limited percentage of aerosol hairspray products in the United States from approximately 1967 to 1973. The question has arisen whether occupational exposures of hairdressers to VC‐containing hairsprays in hair salons were sufficient to increase the risk for developing hepatic angiosarcoma (HAS). Transient two‐zone and steady‐state three‐zone models were used to estimate the historical airborne concentration of VC for individual hairdressers using hairspray as well as estimated contributions from other hairdressers in the same salon. Concentrations of VC were modeled for small, medium, and large salons, as well as a representative home salon. Model inputs were determined using published literature, and variability in these inputs was also considered using Monte Carlo techniques. The 95th percentile for the daily time‐weighted average exposure for small, medium, and large salons, assuming a market‐share fraction of VC‐containing hairspray use from the Monte Carlo analysis, was about 0.3 ppm, and for the home salon scenario was 0.1 ppm. The 95th percentile value for the cumulative lifetime exposure of the hairdressers was 2.8 ppm‐years for the home salon scenario and 2.0 ppm‐years for the small, medium, and large salon scenarios. If using the assumption that all hairsprays used in a salon contained VC, the 95th percentile of the theoretical lifetime cumulative dose was estimated to be 52–79 ppm‐years. Estimated lifetime doses were all below the threshold dose for HAS of about 300 to 500 ppm‐years reported in the published epidemiology literature.
Alternative Methods for Computing the Sensitivity of Complex Surveillance Systems
Authors: Hood G. M. , Barry S. C. , Martin P. A. J.
Published: November 2009

Stochastic scenario trees are a new and popular method by which surveillance systems can be analyzed to demonstrate freedom from pests and disease. For multiple component systems—such as a combination of a serological survey and systematically collected observations—it can be difficult to represent the complete system in a tree because many branches are required to represent complex conditional relationships. Here we show that many of the branches of some scenario trees have identical outcomes and are therefore redundant. We demonstrate how to prune branches and derive compact representations of scenario trees using matrix algebra and Bayesian belief networks. The Bayesian network representation is particularly useful for calculation and exposition. It therefore provides a firm basis for arguing disease freedom in international forums.
Information Processing of Genetically Modified Food Messages Under Different Motives: An Adaptation of the Multiple‐Motive Heuristic‐Systematic Model
Authors: Kim Jooyoung , Paek Hye‐Jin
Published: November 2009

Recent risk management research has noted the importance of understanding how the lay public processes and reacts to risk‐related information. Guided by the multiple‐motive heuristic‐systematic model, this study examines (1) how individuals process messages in the context of genetically modified foods to change their attitudes and (2) how the persuasion process varies across types of motives. In the three treatment conditions of accuracy, defense, and impression motives, the respondents changed their attitudes through either the heuristic or the systematic mode, depending on their motives. The accuracy‐motive group appeared to use the systematic processing mode, while the impression‐motive group seemed to employ the heuristic processing mode. The empirical findings highlight the importance of incorporating motives to improve our understanding of the process of attitude change in risk management and communication contexts.
Design of Comparative Experiments (Cambridge Series in Statistical and Probabilistic Mathematics) by BAILEY, R. A.
Authors: Goad Carla L.
Published: November 2009

Design of Comparative Experiments (Cambridge Series in Statistical and Probabilistic Mathematics)

(R. A. Bailey)

Carla L. Goad

Cluster Randomised Trials

(R. J. Hayes and L. H. Moulton)

Michael J. Campbell

Bayesian Evaluation of Informative Hypotheses

(H. Hoijtink, I. Klugkist, and P. A. Boelen, Editors)

Bo Cai

Bayesian Methods for Measures of Agreement

(L. Broemeling)

Cody Hamilton

Statistical Learning from a Regression Perspective

(R. A. Berk)

Yutaka Yasui and Xiaoming Wang

Statistical Detection and Surveillance of Geographic Clusters

(P. Rogerson and I. Yamada)

Maria Dolores Ugarte

Global Sensitivity Analysis. The Primer

(A. Saltelli, M. Ratto, T. Andres, F. Campolongo, J. Cariboni, D. Gatelli, M. Saisana, and S. Tarantola)

Bryan E. Shepherd

Semi‐Markov Chains and Hidden Semi‐Markov Models toward Applications: Their Use in Reliability and DNA Analysis

(V. S. Barbu and N. Limnios)

Yann Guédon

Brief Reports by the Editor

Handbook of Statistical Analyses Using SAS, 3rd edition

(G. Der and B. S. Everitt)

Software for Data Analysis: Programming with R

(J. M. Chambers)

R for SAS and SPSS Users

(R. A. Muenchen)

Recent Advances in Linear Models and Related Areas: Essays in Honour of Helge Toutenburg

(Shalabh and C. Heumann)

Medical Statistics from A to Z, 2nd edition

(B. Everitt)
Case–Control Studies of Gene–Environment Interaction: Bayesian Design and Analysis
Authors: Mukherjee Bhramar , Ahn Jaeil , Gruber Stephen B. , Ghosh Malay , Chatterjee Nilanjan
Published: November 2009

SummaryWith increasing frequency, epidemiologic studies are addressing hypotheses regarding gene‐environment interaction. In many well‐studied candidate genes and for standard dietary and behavioral epidemiologic exposures, there is often substantial prior information available that may be used to analyze current data as well as for designing a new study. In this article, first, we propose a proper full Bayesian approach for analyzing studies of gene–environment interaction. The Bayesian approach provides a natural way to incorporate uncertainties around the assumption of gene–environment independence, often used in such an analysis. We then consider Bayesian sample size determination criteria for both estimation and hypothesis testing regarding the multiplicative gene–environment interaction parameter. We illustrate our proposed methods using data from a large ongoing case–control study of colorectal cancer investigating the interaction of N‐acetyl transferase type 2 (NAT2) with smoking and red meat consumption. We use the existing data to elicit a design prior and show how to use this information in allocating cases and controls in planning a future study that investigates the same interaction parameters. The Bayesian design and analysis strategies are compared with their corresponding frequentist counterparts.
Estimation of Plant Demographic Parameters from Stage‐Structured Censuses
Authors: David Olivier , Garnier Aurélie , Larédo Catherine , Lecomte Jane
Published: November 2009

Summary This article presents some statistical methods for estimating the parameters of a population dynamics model for annual plants. The model takes account of reproduction, immigration, seed survival in a seed bank, and plant growth. The data consist of the number of plants in several developmental stages that were measured in a number of populations for a few consecutive years; they are incomplete since seeds could not be counted. It is assumed that there are no measurement errors or that measurement errors are binomial and not frequent. Some statistical methods are developed within the framework of estimating equations or Bayesian inference. These methods are applied to oilseed rape data.
Human‐Animal Bonds I: The Relational Significance of Companion Animals
Authors: WALSH FROMA
Published: November 2009

The importance of human‐animal bonds has been documented throughout history, across cultures, and in recent research. However, attachments with companion animals have been undervalued and even pathologized in the field of mental health. This article briefly surveys the evolution of human‐animal bonds, reviews research on their health and mental health benefits, and examines their profound relational significance across the life course. Finally, the emerging field of animal‐assisted interventions is described, noting applications in hospital and eldercare settings, and in innovative school, prison, farm, and community programs. The aim of this overview paper is to stimulate more attention to these vital bonds in systems‐oriented theory, practice, and research. A companion paper in this issue focuses on the role of pets and relational dynamics in family systems and family therapy (Walsh, 2009a).
Human‐Animal Bonds II: The Role of Pets in Family Systems and Family Therapy
Authors: WALSH FROMA
Published: November 2009

The vast majority of pet owners regard their companion animals as family members, yet the role of pets in family systems and family therapy has received little attention in research, training, and practice. This article first notes the benefits of family pets and their importance for resilience. It then examines their role in couple and family processes and their involvement in relational dynamics and tensions. Next, it addresses bereavement in the loss of a cherished pet, influences complicating grief, and facilitation of mourning and adaptation. Finally, it explores the ways that clients' pets and the use of therapists' companion animals in animal‐assisted therapy can inform and enrich couple and family therapy as valuable resources in healing.
Perceived Match or Mismatch on the Gottman Conflict Styles: Associations with Relationship Outcome Variables
Authors: BUSBY DEAN M. , HOLMAN THOMAS B.
Published: November 2009

Gottman has proposed that there are 3 functional styles of conflict management in couple relationships, labeled Avoidant, Validating, and Volatile, and 1 dysfunctional style, labeled Hostile. Using a sample of 1,983 couples in a committed relationship, we test the association of perceived matches or mismatches on these conflict styles with relationship outcome variables. The results indicate that 32% of the participants perceive there is a mismatch with their conflict style and that of their partner. The Volatile‐Avoidant mismatch was particularly problematic and was associated with more stonewalling, relationship problems, and lower levels of relationship satisfaction and stability than the Validating matched style and than other mismatched styles. The most problematic style was the Hostile style. Contrary to existing assumptions by Gottman, the 3 matched functional styles were not equivalent, as the Validating Style was associated with substantially better results on relationship outcome measures than the Volatile and Avoidant styles.
Family Therapy in the Forbidden City: A Review of Chinese Journals From 1978 to 2006
Authors: SIM TIMOTHY , HU CHIYI
Published: November 2009

This article provides a glimpse into the development of family therapy in China, by reviewing family therapy articles written in Chinese and published in journals in China that are not, therefore, readily accessible to the international community. A content analysis of journals published between 1978 and 2006 revealed 199 family therapy articles in 109 Chinese journals. Most of the studies were conducted by psychiatry or medical professionals, and were based on general systems theory or a systemic family therapy model. The articles focused on the promotion of family therapy theories and interventions in China, but did not specify the application of theory to specific clientele or symptoms. After the year 2000, a threefold increase in the number of family therapy publications was noted. These papers included the introduction of additional theories, but did not include critical assessment of the applicability of Western family therapy models to Chinese families. The researchers noted an absence of articles that identified Chinese approaches to family therapy, and a paucity of papers on gender, professional reflection, and the therapy process. The article concludes that there is room for improvement in the quality of family therapy publications in China, and that gains may be made by interdisciplinary collaboration among academics and practitioners.
Content Validity and Satisfaction With a Stroke Caregiver Intervention Program
Authors: Bakas Tamilyn , Farran Carol J. , Austin Joan K. , Given Barbara A. , Johnson Elizabeth A. , Williams Linda S.
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose:Establishing evidence of content validity and satisfaction is an integral part of intervention research. The purpose of this article is to describe content validity and satisfaction relative to the Telephone Assessment and Skill‐Building Kit (TASK), an 8‐week follow‐up program based on individualized assessment of stroke caregiver needs.

Design and Methods:The TASK intervention enables caregivers to develop skills based on assessment of their own needs. During the development of the TASK program, 10 experts rated the validity of the TASK intervention components for accuracy, feasibility, acceptability, and problem relevance. After incorporating feedback from the experts, a randomized controlled clinical trial was instituted using a convenience sample of 40 stroke caregivers to determine satisfaction (usefulness, ease of use, and acceptability) with the TASK intervention (n=21) compared with an attention control group (n=19). Data collection occurred between March 2005 and June 2006. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent sample t tests, and content analysis.

Findings:Expert ratings on a 1 to 5 scale, with 5 being strongly agree, provided evidence of content validity (accuracy 4.71, feasibility 4.46, acceptability 4.40, problem relevance 4.67). Caregivers in the TASK group scored significantly higher than the attention control group on all satisfaction measures (usefulnessp=.02; ease of usep=.02; acceptabilityp=.05). Qualitative comments from caregivers provided further evidence of satisfaction.

Conclusions:Evidence of content validity and user satisfaction for the TASK intervention relative to an attention control group was found.

Clinical Relevance:The TASK program may be a viable telephone‐based program that can be implemented by nurses to support family caregivers during the first few months after stroke survivors are discharged home.
Factors Influencing Disclosure of Abuse by Women of Mexican Descent
Authors: Montalvo‐Liendo Nora , Wardell Diane W. , Engebretson Joan , Reininger Belinda M.
Published: November 2009

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to describe the factors that influence disclosure of abuse by women of Mexican descent. Few published studies describe the experiences of women of Mexican descent with a history of intimate partner abuse, specifically in terms of their process of disclosure of abuse.

Methods:A qualitative research design was used to conduct this study in south Texas adjacent to the United States‐Mexico border. Twenty‐six key informants were recruited from two different sites. An open‐ended approach with a semistructured interview guide was used to collect the narrative information from the 26 participants.

Results:The findings illuminated that many factors hindered disclosure. Some of these factors included protecting their partners, avoidance of worrying their mothers, and fear of losing their children.

Conclusions:The study may help healthcare providers to understand the complexity of disclosure by women with a history of intimate partner abuse and may help explain why women do not readily disclose their abusive situations.

Clinical Relevance:This study on the disclosure decision process of abuse by women of Mexican descent provides some understanding on the cultural or situational factors that hindered or encouraged disclosure; ultimately this knowledge can help healthcare providers and others to provide for the woman's health, welfare, and safety.
Why Do Jordanian Women Stay in an Abusive Relationship: Implications for Health and Social Well‐Being
Authors: Gharaibeh Muntaha , Oweis Arwa
Published: November 2009

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore why Jordanian women stay with an abusive husband.

Design: The study used a qualitative approach to collect data from 28 abused women who were recruited through their community during the summer and fall of 2007.

Methods: Data were collected using an open‐ended question through one‐on‐one in‐depth interviews.

Findings: Results from analysis of the qualitative data revealed that abused Jordanian women identified five main reasons for staying with an abusive husband: the inherited social background, financial dependency, lack of family support, sacrificing self for the sake of the children, and the adverse social consequences of divorce.

Conclusions: The results indicate that Jordanian women are strongly bound by traditions and cultural rules and lack all means of empowerment. Results of the study have implications for healthcare providers, social workers, policy makers, and educators to enhance the health and social well‐being of Arab Muslim women in Jordan. The findings may also apply to Arab families immigrating to the United States, Canada, and Europe who tend to bring their cultural beliefs, values, and norms, and may help healthcare professionals dealing with violence against women in these countries.

Clinical Relevance: Healthcare professionals worldwide need to play an instrumental role in providing culture‐specific and evidence‐based care to empower women staying in abusive relationships, taking into consideration the influence of Arab Muslim culture.
Increasing Nursing Faculty Research: The Iowa Gerontological Nursing Research and Regional Research Consortium Strategies
Authors: Maas Meridean L. , Conn Vicki , Buckwalter Kathleen C. , Herr Keela , Tripp‐Reimer Toni
Published: November 2009

Purpose:Research development and regional consortium strategies are described to assist schools in all countries extend their gerontological nursing research productivity. The strategies, collaboration and mentoring experiences, and outcomes are also shared to illustrate a highly successful approach in increasing faculty programs of nursing research in a focused area of inquiry.

Design:A case description of gerontological nursing research development and regional consortium strategies in schools of nursing is used. The regional consortium included 17 schools of nursing that are working to increase faculty programs of gerontological nursing research. Survey responses describing publications, presentations, and research funding awards from 65 of 114 total faculty participants in consortium opportunities (pilot and mentoring grant participants, participants in summer scholars’ grantsmanship seminars) were collected annually from 1995 through 2008 to describe outcomes.

Findings:From 1994 through 2008, faculty participants from the consortium schools who responded to the annual surveys reported a total of 597 gerontological nursing publications, 527 presentations at research conferences, funding of 221 small and internal grants, and 130 external grant awards, including 47R‐series grants and 4 K awards.

Conclusions:There is an urgent need for more nurse faculty with programs of research to inform the health care of persons and support the preparation of nurse clinicians and faculty. The shortage of nurse scientists with active programs of gerontological research is especially serious and limits the number of faculty who are needed to prepare future gerontological nurses, particularly those with doctoral degrees who will assume faculty positions. Further, junior faculty with a gerontological nursing research foci often lack the colleagues, mentors, and environments needed to develop successful research careers. The outcomes of the development and regional consortium strategies suggest that the principles of extending collaboration, mentoring, and resource sharing are useful to augment faculty research opportunities, networking and support, and to increase productivity in individual schools.

Clinical Relevance:Clinical relevance includes: (a) implications for preparing nurse scientists and academicians who are and will be needed to train nurses for clinical practice, and (b) development of more faculty programs of research to provide systematic evidence to inform nursing practice.
Factors That Influence the Presence of a Hospice in a Rural Community
Authors: Campbell Cathy L. , Merwin Elizabeth , Yan Guofen
Published: November 2009

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify socioeconomic, physician‐related, and rural‐urban factors that may influence the presence of a Medicare‐certified hospice in three rural‐urban areas.

Design: This was secondary analysis of selected socioeconomic, physician‐related, and rural‐urban data from 3,140 counties using the 2005 Area Resource File, a county‐level database. The county was the unit of analysis.

Methods: Descriptive statistics were calculated for selected socioeconomic, physician, and rural‐urban variables for the data set of 3,140 counties. Logistic regression was used to identify variables that influenced the presence of a Medicare‐certified hospice across three rural‐urban areas.

Findings: As the rural‐urban classification progressed from metropolitan (least rural) to rural‐nonadjacent (most rural), the physician rate, racial‐ethnic diversity, and number of counties with at least one Medicare‐certified hospice decreased. However, in all three rural‐urban areas only the physician rate was consistently significantly associated with the presence of a Medicare‐certified hospice.

Conclusions: Given the increasing numbers of patients and families who will be facing end‐of‐life care issues across the globe, access to hospice care is a significant end‐of‐life outcome. The most rural communities are least likely to have a Medicare‐certified hospice. The higher the physician rate, the more likely a county is to have a Medicare‐certified hospice. The Medicare Hospice Benefit's regulations requiring a physician's certification of terminal illness may be creating a barrier to hospice care, especially in rural communities. In this study, racial‐ethnic diversity decreased as the rural‐urban classification progressed from metropolitan (least rural) to rural‐adjacent to metro to rural‐nonadjacent (the most rural). The availability of Medicare‐certified hospices in the metro and rural nonadjacent counties was influenced by the minority composition of the county. More research is needed on how the interaction of rurality, race‐ethnicity, and physician access may affect access to hospice in rural communities.

Clinical Relevance: Increasing numbers of patients and their families across the globe will be facing end‐of‐life care. One of the most common barriers to end‐of‐life care in rural communities all over the world is physician availability. People living in rural communities with few physicians may experience less access to the comprehensive services of hospice than people living in metropolitan communities and therefore not realize important end‐of‐life outcomes such as symptom management, improved quality of life, financial support, and bereavement support.
Single‐Calcination Synthesis of Pyrochlore Free Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 Powders Using Particle‐Coating Method
Authors: Xu Zhijun , Chu Ruiqing , Hao Jigong , Zhang Yanjie , Li Guorong , Yin Qingrui , Ding Aili
Published: November 2009

Using two‐step particle‐coating method, pyrochlore‐free Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 (PMN) powders have been successfully synthesized by a single calcination step at a relatively lower calcined temperature of 850°C. The XRD and EDS results confirmed that the Mg–citric acid polymeric complex coatings effectively prevent direct contact between PbO and Nb2O5 and thus avoid the formation of pyrochlore phase. The coated powders were calcined directly without the ball‐milling procedure at 850°C. The pyrochlore‐free PMN powders obtained showed uniform and even grain size. The results showed that this method is an attractive method for the synthesis of PMN‐based composite powders.
Formation and Stability of Ferroelectric BaTi2O5
Authors: Zhu Na , West Anthony R.
Published: November 2009

BaTi2O5 (BT2) is thermodynamically stable over a very narrow temperature range between 1220° and 1230°C: a modification to the BaO–TiO2 phase diagram is proposed. This thermodynamic stability was shown by constructing a time–temperature transformation diagram for the decomposition of BT2. Once formed, BT2 appears to be stable indefinitely at 1220°–1230°C; at higher temperatures, the decomposition rate increases with temperature; at lower temperatures, the decomposition rate increases with decreasing temperature and passes through a maximum at ∼1200°C; below ∼1150°C, BT2 has long‐lived kinetic stability. Kinetic considerations show a nucleation and growth mechanism for decomposition, with a nucleation induction period that is very temperature dependent. BT2 can be prepared by various routes, including solid‐state reaction of oxides below ∼1100°C; because it is metastable at all temperatures other than 1220°–1230°C, its formation is an example of Ostwald's rule of successive reactions. Discrepancies in the literature concerning the reported stability range of BT2 can be explained by the complex dependence on temperature and time of both its formation and decomposition, for both of which, the nucleation stage is rate limiting.
Nanometric Sr‐Doped LaPO4 Monazite: Synthesis by Mechanical Milling, Characterization, and Water Incorporation on its Structure
Authors: Colomer Maria T. , Díaz‐Guillén José A. , Fuentes Antonio F.
Published: November 2009

Monazite‐type La1−xSrxPO4 (x=0.025 and 0.05) nanoparticles have been obtained, for the first time, by milling a mixture of La(NO3)3·6H2O, Sr(NO3)2, and (NH4)2HPO4 for only 3 h in a planetary ball mill using a moderate rotating disc speed (350 rpm). The formation of the La1−xSrxPO4 takes place via a metathesis solid‐state reaction in a process, which significantly reduces the time and the steps reportedly needed to obtain the same product using different processing methods such as chemical reactions in an aqueous solution. As prepared powders consist of round shaped nanometric particles with a high‐specific surface area (13 m2/g for x=0.025 and 6.7 m2/g for x=0.05, respectively). Washed and dried samples show X‐ray powder diffraction patterns containing all the characteristic reflections of monazite‐type LaPO4. In addition to PO43− orthophosphate ions, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy measurements revealed the presence of P2O74− pyrophosphate ions and HPO42− hydrogen phosphate groups in the Sr‐doped LaPO4, under dry and wet conditions, respectively. These observations are in accordance with the defect model for proton conductors in which La substitution with Sr leads to the formation of P2O74− as intrinsic positive defects, and in wet atmosphere, protons are introduced into the phosphate forming hydrogen phosphate groups through the equilibrium between P2O74− and water vapor. Furthermore, a weight increase of the doped samples at high temperatures during heating in a water containing atmosphere, confirms the water vapor uptake on Sr‐doped LaPO4.
Local Structure of the Infrared Bismuth Luminescent Center in Bismuth‐Doped Silica Glass
Authors: Fujimoto Yasushi
Published: November 2009

Several instrumental analyses, such as spectroscopic properties, luminescent intensity, nuclear magnetic resonance, X‐ray diffraction, electron spin resonance, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and extended X‐ray absorption fine structure, have been performed on a Bi2O3–Al2O3–SiO2 glass system. After the roles and the structure of the Al ions and the valence state of the luminescent Bi ions were experimentally examined, it was recognized that aluminum ions with a sixfold corundum structure behave like a “generator” of the luminescent center and that the valence state of Bi5+ is suitable for the distinctive Bi luminescent center. Because a certain image of the local structure of the Bi luminescent center is built by instrumental analyses without discrepancies, the distinctive bismuth luminescent center model reveals that the sixfold coordination state of Bi5+ is combined with the sixfold corundum structure of Al3+ through an oxygen ion.
Pressureless Sintering of Tantalum Carbide Ceramics without Additives
Authors: Liu Ji‐Xuan , Kan Yan‐Mei , Zhang Guo‐Jun
Published: November 2009

Using fine tantalum carbide (TaC) powder with narrow particle‐size distribution, monolithic TaC ceramics with a relative density of 97.5% was obtained by pressureless sintering at 2300°C without adding additives. The monolithic TaC ceramics had a very fine microstructure with grain size of about 2 μm. It is considered that the small particle size and uniform particle‐size distribution of TaC powder are important factors for preparing dense TaC ceramics with fine microstructure. Otherwise, fast grain growth of TaC will occur. Compared with the reported values in literature, the monolithic TaC ceramics obtained demonstrated a high bending strength of 338±10 MPa.