bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extensive range persistence in peripheral and interior refugia characterizes Pleistocene range dynamics in a widespread Alpine plant species (Senecio carniolicus, Asteraceae)
Authors: ESCOBAR GARCÍA PEDRO , WINKLER MANUELA , FLATSCHER RUTH , SONNLEITNER MICHAELA , KREJČÍKOVÁ JANA , SUDA JAN , HÜLBER KARL , SCHNEEWEISS GERALD M. , SCHÖNSWETTER PETER
Published: January 2012

Recent evidence suggests that survival of arctic‐alpine organisms in peripheral or interior glacial refugia are not mutually exclusive and may both be involved in shaping an organism’s Pleistocene history, yet potentially at different time levels. Here, we test this hypothesis in a high‐mountain plant (diploid lineage of Senecio carniolicus, Asteraceae) from the Eastern European Alps, in which patterns of morphological variation and current habitat requirements suggest survival in both types of refugia. To this end, we used AFLPs, nuclear and plastid DNA sequences and analysed them, among others, within a graph theoretic framework and using novel Bayesian methods of phylogeographic inference. On the basis of patterns of genetic diversity, occurrence of rare markers, distribution of distinct genetic lineages and patterns of range connectivity both interior refugia in the formerly strongly glaciated central Alps and peripheral refugia along the southern margin of the Alps were identified. The presence of refugia congruently inferred by markers resolving at different time levels suggests that these refugia acted as such throughout several glacial cycles. The high degree of range persistence together with gradual range expansion, which contrasts with the extent of range shifts implied for other Alpine species, is likely responsible for incipient lineage differentiation evident from the genetic data. Replacing a simplistic peripheral vs. interior refugia dualism by more complex models involving both types of refugia and considering different time levels will help identifying common phylogeographic patterns with respect to, for instance, location of refugia and colonization routes and elucidating their underlying genetic and/or ecological causes.
Virus–vector Relationships, Host Range, Detection and Sequence Comparison of Chilli leaf curl virus Associated with an Epidemic of Leaf Curl Disease of Chilli in Jodhpur, India
Authors: Senanayake D. M. J. B. , Varma Anupam , Mandal Bikash
Published: January 2012

An epidemic of chilli leaf curl disease was recorded in 2004 in Jodhpur, a major chilli‐growing area in Rajasthan, India. Several isolates were efficiently transmitted by the whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), all of which induced severe leaf curl symptoms in chilli. A single whitefly was capable of transmitting the virus, and eight or more whiteflies per plant resulted in 100% transmission. The minimum acquisition access period (AAP) and inoculation access period (IAP) were 180 and 60 min, respectively. The virus persisted in whiteflies for up to 5 days postacquisition. Of 25 species tested, the virus infected only five (Capsicum annuum, Carica papaya, Solanum lycopersicum, Nicotiana tabacum and N. benthamiana). The virus was identified as Chilli leaf curl virus (ChiLCV), which shared the closest sequence identity (96.1%) with an isolate of ChiLCV from potato in Pakistan and showed sequence diversity up to 12.3% among the ChiLCV isolates reported from India and Pakistan. A betasatellite was identified, which resembled most closely (97.3%) that of Tomato leaf curl Bangladesh betasatellite previously reported from chilli and tomato leaf curl in India. The betasatellite was very different from that reported from chilli leaf curl in Pakistan, indicating that different betasatellites are associated with chilli leaf curl in India and Pakistan. We describe here for the first time the virus–vector relationships and host range of ChiLCV.
The effect of microstructures on fatigue crack growth in Q345 steel welded joint
Authors: XIONG Y. , HU X. X.
Published: January 2012

It is a traditional that the fatigue crack growth behavior is sensitive to microstructure in threshold regime, while it is sensitive to R‐ratio in Paris regime. Fatigue test is carried out for welded joints of a Q345 steel where the compact tension specimens with 3.8 and 12.5 mm thickness are used, and comparisons of fatigue crack growth behavior between base metal and a few different locations in the welded joint are considered in Paris regime. Welding residual stresses are removed by heat treatment to focus the study on the microstructural effect. It is shown that fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) in the base metal is not sensitive to R‐ratio, but the FCGR increases in the overheated zone, the fusion zone and the weld metal zone with R‐ratio increasing. To the low R‐ratio, FCGR in the three zones is smaller than that in the base metal, but they approximate the same with base metal under the high R‐ratio. The mechanism of fatigue crack growth is analyzed through crack path in microstructures and SEM fractograph. The coarse‐grained ferrite in the base metal is of benefit to relaxation of the average stress at the crack tip, and the fatigue crack growth predicts branching and deflection within above different locations in the welded joint. These tortuous crack paths with crack branching and deflection will promote crack closure as well as crack‐tip stress shielding and then resulted in higher crack growth resistance.
Release, neuronal effects and removal of extracellular β‐nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (β‐NAD+) in the rat brain
Authors: Durnin Leonie , Dai Yanping , Aiba Isamu , Shuttleworth C. William , Yamboliev Ilia A. , Mutafova‐Yambolieva Violeta N.
Published: January 2012

Recent evidence supports an emerging role of β‐nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (β‐NAD+) as a novel neurotransmitter and neuromodulator in the peripheral nervous system –β‐NAD+ is released in nerve‐smooth muscle preparations and adrenal chromaffin cells in a manner characteristic of a neurotransmitter. It is currently unclear whether this holds true for the CNS. Using a small‐chamber superfusion assay and high‐sensitivity high‐pressure liquid chromatography techniques, we demonstrate that high‐K+ stimulation of rat forebrain synaptosomes evokes overflow of β‐NAD+, adenosine 5′‐triphosphate, and their metabolites adenosine 5′‐diphosphate (ADP), adenosine 5′‐monophosphate, adenosine, ADP‐ribose (ADPR) and cyclic ADPR. The high‐K+‐evoked overflow of β‐NAD+ is attenuated by cleavage of SNAP‐25 with botulinum neurotoxin A, by inhibition of N‐type voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels with ω‐conotoxin GVIA, and by inhibition of the proton gradient of synaptic vesicles with bafilomycin A1, suggesting that β‐NAD+ is likely released via vesicle exocytosis. Western analysis demonstrates that CD38, a multifunctional protein that metabolizes β‐NAD+, is present on synaptosomal membranes and in the cytosol. Intact synaptosomes degrade β‐NAD+. 1,N 6‐etheno‐NAD, a fluorescent analog of β‐NAD+, is taken by synaptosomes and this uptake is attenuated by authentic β‐NAD+, but not by the connexin 43 inhibitor Gap 27. In cortical neurons local applications of β‐NAD+ cause rapid Ca2+ transients, likely due to influx of extracellular Ca2+. Therefore, rat brain synaptosomes can actively release, degrade and uptake β‐NAD+, and β‐NAD+ can stimulate postsynaptic neurons, all criteria needed for a substance to be considered a candidate neurotransmitter in the brain.
Network activity and spike discharge oscillations in cortical slice cultures from neonatal rat
Authors: Czarnecki Antonny , Tscherter Anne , Streit Jürg
Published: January 2012

Network bursts and oscillations are forms of spontaneous activity in cortical circuits that have been described in vivo and in vitro. Searching for mechanisms involved in their generation, we investigated the collective network activity and spike discharge oscillations in cortical slice cultures of neonatal rats, combining multielectrode arrays with patch clamp recordings from individual neurons. The majority of these cultures showed spontaneous collective network activity [population bursts (PBs)] that could be described as neuronal avalanches. The largest of these PBs were followed by fast spike discharge oscillations in the beta to theta range, and sometimes additional repetitive PBs, together forming seizure‐like episodes. During such episodes, all neurons showed sustained depolarization with increased spike rates. However, whereas regular‐spiking (RS) and fast‐spiking (FS) neurons fired during the PBs, only the FS neurons fired during the fast oscillations. Blockade of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors reduced the depolarization and suppressed both the increased FS neuron firing and the oscillations. To investigate the generation of PBs, we studied the network responses to electrical stimulation. For most of the stimulation sites, the relationship between the stimulated inputs and the evoked PBs was linear. From a few stimulation sites, however, large PBs could be evoked with small inputs, indicating the activation of hub circuits. Taken together, our findings suggests that the oscillations originate from recurrent inhibition in local networks of depolarized inhibitory FS interneurons, whereas the PBs originate from recurrent excitation in networks of RS and FS neurons that is initiated in hub circuits.
Sexual dimorphisms in the dermal structure of the lesser‐spotted catshark, Scyliorhinus canicula (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Crooks Neil , Waring Colin P.
Published: January 2012

Sexual dimorphisms in the dermal structures of two elasmobranch species have previously been reported and it has been linked to the use of the mouth by males during copulation. Until relatively recently, the fact, that male Scyliorhinus canicula use their mouths for grasping and biting females during copulation was unknown. This study reveals that not only do adult (M ≥ 525 mm, F ≥ 550 mm) S. canicula show a sexual dimorphism in the epidermis and dermis, but that hatchling S. canicula are born with a sexually dimorphic epidermal layer and this persists into the juvenile stage (M < 525 mm, F < 550 mm). A sexual dimorphism was found in all size classes with both hatchling and juvenile female S. canicula having significantly thicker epidermal layers than hatchling and juvenile male S. canicula. Adult female S. canicula were found to possess both a significantly thicker epidermal and dermal layer than adult male S. canicula. The presence of a sexual dimorphism in the epidermal and dermal layers of adult S. canicula could be directly related to reproductive behaviour in response to the male biting the female prior to copulation.
TESTING BAYESIAN UPDATING WITH THE ASSOCIATED PRESS TOP 25
Authors: STONE DANIEL F.
Published: January 2012

Most studies of Bayesian updating use experimental data. This article uses a non‐experimental data source—the voter ballots of the Associated Press college football poll, a weekly subjective ranking of the top 25 teams—to test Bayes' rule as a descriptive model. I find that voters sometimes underreact to new information, sometimes overreact, and at other times their behavior is consistent with estimated Bayesian updating. A unifying explanation for the disparate results is that voters are more responsive to information that is more salient (i.e., noticeable). In particular, voters respond in a “more Bayesian” way to losses and wins over ranked teams, as compared to wins over unranked teams, and voters seem unaware of subtle variation in the precision of priors. (JELD80, D83, D84)
Reconsidering the ‘heresy’ of using treatment manuals
Authors: Escudero Valentín
Published: January 2012

Some argue that the medical model and the experimental design that underlies the use of treatment manuals to prove the efficacy of a psychotherapeutic treatment clashes with the theoretical basis of family therapy. From the point of view of the empirically supported treatments (ESTs) movement, treatment manuals are the operationalization of the independent variable in a clinical trial; the therapist is only part of the procedure and the therapeutic relationship is a confounding variable. Applying that logic to the practice of family therapy might be considered a heresy. This article argues that paradoxically, this heresy has a lot to offer the practice of family therapy. Research is the best way to answer questions like ‘how does family therapy work?’ ‘What makes ‘good therapy’ good?’ ‘Do therapists do what they say they do'? This article recommends an alternative framework for integrating ESTs into practice by proposing empirically informed guides to practice which, being less formulaic, encourage process‐outcome research, are coherent with the systemic model and do not constrain the therapist's creativity. Such guidelines allow therapists to use manuals flexibly so that they deepen the understanding of the process of therapy.

We encourage you to listen to the JFT Editor, Mark Rivett, as he interviews the author on Manuals in the Practice and Research of Family Therapy. Available at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10.1111/(ISSN)1467‐6427/homepage/jft_podcast_series.htm.
Institutional alignment: The anniversary of Italy's 150 years of unity
Authors: Boni Stefano
Published: January 2012

This article introduces the concept of institutional alignment, referring to the contemporary convergence of a number of institutions (political, governmental, economical, clerical and media) working to hegemonize legitimate knowledge and privilege certain issues. In such instances institutions are called upon to align themselves in terms of narrative style, use of lexicon, symbolic array and, most importantly, the diffusion of a homogeneous and approved truth. Institutional alignment has been implemented in the last few years in Italy on a number of issues crucial to the ideological and economic preservation of the established order: the support for the wars conducted by the Italian armed forces under the guise of humanitarian intervention, especially during periods of patriotic mourning; the backing for the construction of large public infrastructural projects; the condemnation of what is labelled as ‘political violence’; the protection of policies said to generate ‘economic and financial stability’. The issue is illustrated with reference to the celebrations for the anniversary of Italy's 150 years of unity. The agencies involved in promoting a uniform representation in this context are examined. Finally, the frailty of the hegemonic grip is discussed.
Iron in the soil: Living with military waste in Bosnia‐Herzegovina
Authors: Henig David
Published: January 2012

Waste, in particular the waste produced by conflicts, has become a serious matter of concern in recent scholarship on materiality and society. But what is military post‐conflict waste, and what kind of materiality does it entail? This article retrains an ethnographic focus on post‐conflict materiality away from visible and easily recognized entities such as politicized monuments, towards (in)visible and misrecognized war remnants, those parts buried in the soil, in trees and sometimes in people's bodies. The article focuses on people's quotidian practices of re‐creating, re‐relating to and re‐dwelling in the world in the presence of military waste in rural Bosnia. It calls for an inclusive scholarship of materiality that takes the material‐cum‐emotional affects and effects that these material objects discharge upon persons as a matter of serious concern. The themes discussed in the article have far‐reaching implications, not just for Bosnian postwar anthropology, but for critically engaged anthropology and the role of the discipline in the contemporary world.
Perceptual Narrowing of Linguistic Sign Occurs in the 1st Year of Life
Authors: Palmer Stephanie Baker , Fais Laurel , Golinkoff Roberta Michnick , Werker Janet F.
Published: January 2012

Over their 1st year of life, infants’“universal” perception of the sounds of language narrows to encompass only those contrasts made in their native language (J. F. Werker & R. C. Tees, 1984). This research tested 40 infants in an eyetracking paradigm and showed that this pattern also holds for infants exposed to seen language—American Sign Language (ASL). Four‐month‐old, English‐only, hearing infants discriminated an ASL handshape distinction, while 14‐month‐old hearing infants did not. Fourteen‐month‐old ASL‐learning infants, however, did discriminate the handshape distinction, suggesting that, as in heard language, exposure to seen language is required for maintenance of visual language discrimination. Perceptual narrowing appears to be a ubiquitous learning mechanism that contributes to language acquisition.
Observation and Initiation of Joint Action in Infants
Authors: Fawcett Christine , Liszkowski Ulf
Published: January 2012

Infants imitate others’ individual actions, but do they also replicate others’ joint activities? To examine whether observing joint action influences infants’ initiation of joint action, forty‐eight 18‐month‐old infants observed object demonstrations by 2 models acting together (joint action), 2 models acting individually (individual action), or 1 model acting alone (solitary action). Infants’ behavior was examined after they were given each object. Infants in the joint action condition attempted to initiate joint action more often than infants in the other conditions, yet they were equally likely to communicate for other reasons and to imitate the demonstrated object‐directed actions. The findings suggest that infants learn to replicate others’ joint activity through observation, an important skill for cultural transmission of shared practices.
Changes in Irregular Emigration: A Field Report from Fuzhou
Authors: Sheng Lin , Bax Trent
Published: January 2012

This paper is based on case studies in Fuzhou, China, with the aim of exploring the changes in Fuzhou’s irregular emigration activities. The findings indicate that due to changing socio‐economic and historical circumstances, a more legalizing tendency of irregular emigration from Fuzhou can be observed. Among these new developments are the following: less risk, along with the use of safer tactics, is now involved in the process of emigration; emigrants are better supported with resources such as financial support, network support and a higher level of education; “legal” status is cherished in the process of emigration, and fewer and fewer emigrants are likely to be victimized by organized smuggling groups; and migratory waves have decelerated and the passion for emigration has become both more rational and more sensible.
Nigerians in China: A Second State of Immobility
Authors: Haugen Heidi Østbø
Published: January 2012

China’s rapid economic development has been accompanied by new forms of immigration. Investors and professionals from developed countries are increasingly joined by a diverse group of immigrants from around the world. While there is a large body of academic literature on Chinese emigration, China’s new role as a country of immigration has received less scholarly attention. This paper addresses the dynamics of South–South migration to China through a study of Nigerians in Guangzhou, a major international trading hub. The analysis is based on qualitative interviews and participant observation among African traders and migrants in Guangzhou. The paper contends that Nigerian immigration to China epitomizes global migration trends towards a diversification of migration flows, commercialization of the migration process and increased policing of foreigners within national borders. China was rarely the preferred destination of this study’s Nigerian informants but, rather, a palatable alternative, as their aspirations to enter Europe and North America were curtailed by restrictive immigration regimes. They escaped a situation of involuntary immobility in Nigeria through short‐term visas obtained with the help of migration brokers. However, opportunities for visa renewals are scant under the current Chinese immigration policy. Undocumented migrants find their mobility severely inhibited: They must carefully assess how, when and with whom they move about in order to avoid police interception. This is a business impediment, as well as a source of personal distress for migrants who engage in trade and the provision of trade‐related services. The situation can be described as a “second state of immobility”: the migrants have succeeded in the difficult project of emigration, but find themselves spatially entrapped in new ways in their destination country.
Affective–motivational brain responses to direct gaze in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kylliäinen Anneli , Wallace Simon , Coutanche Marc N. , Leppänen Jukka M. , Cusack James , Bailey Anthony J. , Hietanen Jari K.
Published: January 2012

Background:  It is unclear why children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) tend to be inattentive to, or even avoid eye contact. The goal of this study was to investigate affective–motivational brain responses to direct gaze in children with ASD. To this end, we combined two measurements: skin conductance responses (SCR), a robust arousal measure, and asymmetry in frontal electroencephalography (EEG) activity which is associated with motivational approach and avoidance tendencies. We also explored whether degree of eye openness and face familiarity modulated these responses.

Methods:  Skin conductance responses and frontal EEG activity were recorded from 14 children with ASD and 15 typically developing children whilst they looked at familiar and unfamiliar faces with eyes shut, normally open or wide‐open. Stimuli were presented in such a way that they appeared to be looming towards the children.

Results:  In typically developing children, there were no significant differences in SCRs between the different eye conditions, whereas in the ASD group the SCRs were attenuated to faces with closed eyes and increased as a function of the degree of eye openness. In both groups, familiar faces elicited marginally greater SCRs than unfamiliar faces. In typically developing children, normally open eyes elicited greater relative left‐sided frontal EEG activity (associated with motivational approach) than shut eyes and wide‐open eyes. In the ASD group, there were no significant differences between the gaze conditions in frontal EEG activity.

Conclusions:  Collectively, the results replicate previous finding in showing atypical modulation of arousal in response to direct gaze in children with ASD but do not support the assumption that this response is associated with an avoidant motivational tendency. Instead, children with ASD may lack normative approach‐related motivational response to eye contact.
On the origin of multi‐layer coronas between olivine and plagioclase at the gabbro–granulite transition, Valle Fértil–La Huerta Ranges, San Juan Province, Argentina
Authors: GALLIEN F. , MOGESSIE A. , HAUZENBERGER C. A. , BJERG E. , DELPINO S. , CASTRO DE MACHUCA B.
Published: January 2012

Troctolitic gabbros from Valle Fértil and La Huerta Ranges, San Juan Province, NW‐Argentina exhibit multi‐layer corona textures between cumulus olivine and plagioclase. The corona mineral sequence, which varies in the total thickness from 0.5 to 1 mm, comprises either an anhydrous corona type I with olivine|orthopyroxene|clinopyroxene+spinel symplectite|plagioclase or a hydrous corona type II with olivine|orthopyroxene|amphibole|amphibole+spinel symplectite|plagioclase. The anhydrous corona type I formed by metamorphic replacement of primary olivine and plagioclase, in the absence of any fluid/melt phase at <840 °C. Diffusion controlled metamorphic solid‐state replacement is mainly governed by the chemical potential gradients at the interface of reactant olivine and plagioclase and orthopyroxene and plagioclase. Thus, the thermodynamic incompatibility of the reactant minerals at the gabbro–granulite transition and the phase equilibria of the coronitic assemblage during subsequent cooling were modelled using quantitative μMgO–μCaO phase diagrams. Mineral reaction textures of the anhydrous corona type I indicate an inward migration of orthopyroxene on the expense of olivine, while clinopyroxene+spinel symplectite grows outward to replace plagioclase. Mineral textures of the hydrous corona type II indicate the presence of an interstitial liquid trapped between cumulus olivine and plagioclase that reacts with olivine to produce a rim of peritectic orthopyroxene around olivine. Two amphibole types are distinguished: an inclusion free, brownish amphibole I is enriched in trace elements and REEs relative to green amphibole II. Amphibole I evolves from an intercumulus liquid between peritectic orthopyroxene and plagioclase. Discrete layers of green amphibole II occur as inclusion‐free rims and amphibole II+spinel symplectites. Mineral textures and geochemical patterns indicate a metamorphic origin for amphibole II, where orthopyroxene was replaced to form an inner inclusion‐free amphibole II layer, while clinopyroxene and plagioclase were replaced to form an outer amphibole+spinel symplectite layer, at <770 °C. Calculation of the possible net reactions by considering NCKFMASH components indicates that the layer bulk composition cannot be modelled as a ‘closed’ system although in all cases the gain and loss of elements within the multi‐layer coronas (except H2O, Na2O) is very small and the main uncertainties may arise from slight chemical zoning of the respective minerals. Local oxidizing conditions led to the formation of orthopyroxene+magnetite symplectite enveloping and/or replacing olivine. The sequence of corona reaction textures indicates a counter clockwise P–T path at the gabbro–granulite transition at 5–6.5 kbar and temperatures below 900 °C.
Diastolic Heart Failure in Dialysis Patients: Mechanisms, Diagnostic Approach, and Treatment
Authors: Pecoits‐Filho Roberto , Bucharles Sérgio , Barberato Silvio H.
Published: January 2012

Heart failure (HF) is very common in the general population, and risk factors for HF, such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension, are frequently present in patients with CKD. Therefore, HF is also an important cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. Diastolic heart failure (DHF), also called HF with preserved ejection fraction, refers to a clinical syndrome in which patients have symptoms and signs of HF, normal or near normal left ventricular (LV) systolic function, and evidence of diastolic dysfunction (e.g., abnormal LV filling and elevated filling pressure). Recent data suggest that HF with normal ejection fraction is even more common in patients than HF with low ejection fraction, including those on hemodialysis. Not surprisingly, DHF is a strong predictor of death in CKD patients. In this article, we review the information available on the mechanisms, clinical presentation, impact, and potential interventions in DHF based on evidence from CKD patients, as well as evidence from the general population potentially applicable to the CKD population.
Outcomes after the Long Interdialytic Break: Implications for the Dialytic Prescription
Authors: Flythe Jennifer E. , Lacson Eduardo
Published: January 2012

A thrice‐weekly schedule dominates hemodialysis practice today. Inherent in such a schedule is a 72‐hour interweek break over the weekend. A growing body of evidence suggests that this break may be associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Five recent studies have linked dialysis session timing to higher cardiovascular event rates, and have shed light on possible underlying physiologic mechanisms. We reviewed outcome data linking the “long break” to cardiovascular outcomes, and suggest physiologic rationale for this relationship while identifying knowledge gaps that require further study to inform discussions regarding the application and composition of individualized dialysis prescriptions. Further work is needed to determine the relative importance of electrolyte perturbations and hemodynamic shifts in the relationship between the long break and cardiovascular mortality. The evidence suggests that at least in some at‐risk patients, an individualized approach to the dialytic schedule and prescription is warranted.
The Effect of Child Support Enforcement on Abortion in the United States*
Authors: Crowley Jocelyn E. , Jagannathan Radha , Falchettore Galo
Published: January 2012

Objectives

This project aims to answer a critically important question of public policy: Does effective child support enforcement lead to a change in the incidence of abortion across the United States?

Methods

Using state‐level data collected from 1978–2003 from a variety of sources, we employ fixed effects regression analysis to examine whether financial security as measured by five types of child support enforcement effectiveness impacts abortion outcomes.

Results

We find that child support enforcement effectiveness decreases the incidence of abortion as measured by the abortion rate, but not the abortion ratio.

Conclusions

Income transfer policies such as child support enforcement can affect certain fertility outcomes such as abortion rates across the states.
Left Radial versus Right Radial Approach for Coronary Artery Catheterization: A Prospective Comparison
Authors: DOMINICI MARCELLO , DILETTI ROBERTO , MILICI CATERINA , BOCK CARLO , GARG SCOT , DE PAOLIS MARCELLA , AMBROSIO GIUSEPPE , BOSCHETTI ENRICO
Published: January 2012

Background:Despite several advantages of the transradial over the transfemoral approach, the use of transradial access for coronary interventions in daily practice is still low. Major limitations are the technical and anatomical issues related with right radial artery access. The left radial approach may have an advantage from the point of view of the vascular anatomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of routinely using the left radial compared to the right radial approach.

Methods:This is a prospective single center study comparing left radial to right radial access for coronary artery catheterization. The overall in‐hospital major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE), procedural success rate, bleeding, vascular and procedural complications, fluoroscopy time, number of catheters, and amount of contrast agent used were assessed.

Results:A total of 1,032 coronary angiograms were performed: 420 were performed using the right radial artery and 612 the left radial artery. No differences were observed in MACCE and success rate between the two groups. No cases of major or minor bleeding and vascular complications requiring surgical intervention were reported. Fluoroscopy time and the number of catheters used were significantly less in the left radial group (P = 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively), while the volume of contrast was similar (P = 0.264).

Conclusions:The left radial approach in our series was demonstrated to be safe and feasible in daily practice, and in this study was associated with a reduction in fluoroscopy time and number of catheters used. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:203–209)
A “Green Chemistry” Approach to the Synthesis of Rare‐Earth Aluminates: Perovskite‐Type LaAlO3 Nanoparticles in Molten Nitrates
Authors: Mendoza‐Mendoza Esmeralda , Montemayor Sagrario M. , Escalante‐García José I. , Fuentes Antonio F.
Published: January 2012

Perovskite‐type LaAlO3 nanoparticles have been prepared by a facile, rapid, and environmentally friendly molten salts method using alkali metal nitrates as low‐temperature fluxes. Starting from hydrated lanthanum and aluminum nitrates and alkali metal hydroxides, the proposed methodology consists briefly of two steps: a mechanically induced metathesis reaction followed by short firing at temperatures above nitrates melting points. The purpose of the first is twofold: on the one hand to generate in situ the alkali metal nitrate flux and on the other hand, to obtain a La and Al‐containing precursor material suitable for the synthesis of bulk LaAlO3 nanoparticles in molten nitrates. Different alkali metal nitrates and eutectic mixtures were used to analyze the influence of melt basicity in the reaction outcome. Single phase LaAlO3 was obtained directly, without any purification step when using three molten media: LiNO3, NaNO3, and their mixture; using KNO3 as flux either alone or as part of eutectic compositions, prevents complete conversion, and the title material is obtained mixed with additional crystalline phases such as lanthanum hydroxinitrates and carbonates. As‐prepared LaAlO3 powders are composed of loosely agglomerated nanoparticles with very fine crystallite size (32–45 nm). The present method reduces considerably previously reported synthesis time/temperatures for this material.
A Long‐Term Study of the Counseling Needs of Turkish University Students
Authors: Dogan Turkan
Published: January 2012

The author analyzed the gender, grade, sources of referral, and problem areas of 1,664 student‐clients who consulted a counseling center for individual counseling over an 11‐year period. The results showed that grade, sources of referral, and problem areas varied significantly over the years whereas gender did not. Students who consulted the center in recent years were mostly in their final year, came from all sources of referral, and had preexisting mental health concerns.
Evolution of Counseling in Jamaica: Past, Present, and Future Trends
Authors: Palmer Geoffrey J. , Palmer Ransford W. , Payne‐Borden Jacqueline
Published: January 2012

Counseling maintains a small yet growing presence in Jamaica as a profession. Practitioners are confronted with several societal problems. The authors provide a historical overview of Jamaica and a synopsis of the development of counseling. The emergence of counseling services through the limitations of psychiatry and psychology sets the stage for current practices and notable involvement of guidance counselors. It is concluded that the continued growth and effectiveness of counseling is dependent on overcoming negative attitudes and economic barriers.
Counseling in Zimbabwe: History, Current Status, and Future Trends
Authors: Richards Kimberly A. M. , Zivave Athanas T. , Govere Saunsuray M. , Mphande Joyce , Dupwa Beatrice
Published: January 2012

Counseling in Zimbabwe has a long tradition, dating back to pre‐Colonial times. In the modern context, counseling has evolved through the educational and health care sectors. Since the 1990s, Zimbabwean counselors have advocated for professional recognition, a struggle similar to that of counselors in the United States. In this article, the authors provide a historical view of counseling in Zimbabwe, discuss the current status of and future trends in counseling, and make recommendations for the advancement of the profession.
Professional Counseling in Kenya: History, Current Status, and Future Trends
Authors: Okech Jane E. Atieno , Kimemia Muthoni
Published: January 2012

The authors examine the history and development of the counseling profession in Kenya. This profession is deeply rooted in responses to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the emergence of mental health needs created by the impact of political and community‐based violence, increasing student unrest in public institutions, and government efforts to provide social–emotional support for students in public schools and universities. The authors also examine the challenges for the profession and make recommendations for the future.
Doing qualitative research in dentistry and dental education
Authors: Edmunds S. , Brown G.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper is to assist dental researchers to develop their expertise in qualitative research. It sketches the key characteristics of qualitative research; summarises theoretical perspectives; outlines the core skills of qualitative data collection and the procedures which underlie three methods of qualitative research: interviewing, focus groups and concept maps. The paper offers some guidance on writing qualitative research and provides examples of qualitative research drawn from dentistry and dental education.
Quantitative color assessment of dermoscopy images using perceptible color regions
Authors: Lee Gunwoo , Lee Onseok , Park Sunup , Moon Jongsub , Oh Chilhwan
Published: January 2012

Background

Dermoscopy is a non‐invasive in vivo skin imaging technique that assists dermatologists in diagnosing melanoma. However, the use of dermoscopy for diagnosis requires extensive training since this approach often provides extremely complex and subjective information. The presence of an imperceptible color difference in dermoscopy images is one of the serious problems associated with the use of this technique. This imperceptible color difference leads to inaccurate lesion extraction at the borders and hinders the assessment of lesion features. Therefore, objective and quantitative assessment based on perceptible color differences is important for the diagnosis of melanoma using dermoscopy.

Methods

In this study, we developed a method for assessing colors in a lesion. Twenty‐seven perceptible color regions based on the multi‐thresholding method in each color channel were constructed, and dominant color region (DCR), bluish dominant region (BDR), and the number of colors were assessed as three diagnostic parameters from these perceptible color regions on 150 dermoscopy images.

Results/Conclusion

Diagnostic accuracy was calculated by combination of three diagnostic parameters derived from DCR, BDR, and the number of colors. Diagnostic accuracy with 73.33% sensitivity and 90.67% specificity was obtained in case of positive features in more than two parameters.
Dental Trauma Guide: A source of evidence‐based treatment guidelines for dental trauma
Authors: Andreasen Jens Ove , Lauridsen Eva , Gerds Thomas Alexander , Ahrensburg Søren Steno
Published: January 2012

Abstract –  Diagnosis and treatment for traumatic dental injuries are very complex owing to the multiple trauma entities represented by six luxation types and nine fracture types affecting both the primary and the permanent dentition. When it is further considered that fracture and luxation injuries are often combined, the result is that more than 100 trauma scenarios exist, when the two dentitions are combined. Each of these trauma scenarios has a specific treatment demand and prospect for healing. With such a complexity in diagnosis and treatment, it is obvious that even experienced practitioners may have problems in selecting proper treatment for some of these trauma types. To remedy this situation, an Internet‐based knowledge base consisting of 4000 dental trauma cases with long‐term follow up is now available to the public and the professions on the Internet using the address http://www.DentalTraumaGuide.org. It is the aspiration that the use of this Guide may lead the practitioner to offer an evidence‐based diagnosis and treatment.
Negative plant–soil feedbacks dominate seedling competitive interactions of North American successional grassland species
Authors: Padilla Francisco M. , Mattingly W. Brett , Swedo Barbara L. , Clay Keith , Reynolds Heather L.
Published: January 2012

Question

Seed‐transmitted fungal endophytes of grasses can influence competitive interactions via direct effects of infection on host plant performance or via indirect effects, such as plant–soil feedback effects that operate through changes to soil properties. To date, however, these direct and feedback effects have been evaluated separately. What is the relative importance of endophyte infection vs endophyte‐mediated plant–soil feedback effects on competition between seedlings of the grass tall fescue (Schedonorus phoenix) and common species of American Midwestern old‐field successional grasslands?

Location

Long‐term field experimental plots at the Indiana University Research and Teaching Preserve and greenhouse of Indiana University (Bloomington, IN, USA).

Methods

Endophyte‐free (E‐) and endophyte‐infected (E+) tall fescue seedlings were grown individually and in intraspecific competition and pair‐wise interspecific competition. Endophyte‐mediated plant–soil feedback effects were incorporated by growing seedlings in soil conditioned by either E– or E+ tall fescue.

Results

We found that E– and E+ tall fescue experienced stronger intra‐ and interspecific competition when competing in self‐conditioned soils. This pattern was consistent regardless of competitor identity.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the direct benefits of endophyte infection do not drive competitive responses of tall fescue at the early stages of plant development, at least under the conditions examined in our study. Rather, negative plant–soil feedbacks may be more important in moderating plant responses to competitive interactions during seedling establishment of this species. Explicit manipulation of factors such as herbivory and abiotic stress is an important future direction for studies evaluating the relative importance of endophyte infection vs soil‐mediated endophyte effects on host plant performance.
Parteien und die Generosität der Altersrenten in Zeiten permanenter Austerität
Authors: Zohlnhöfer Reimut , Wolf Frieder , Wenzelburger Georg
Published: January 2012

Zusammenfassung:  Die quantitative Sozialpolitikforschung weist ein doppeltes Defizit auf: Zum einen dominieren Analysen aggregierter Ausgaben(quoten), zum anderen fokussieren die meisten Studien zu Lohnersatzraten auf die Arbeitslosen‐ und Krankenversicherung, während die Rentengenerosität weitgehend ausgespart geblieben ist. Der vorliegende Artikel stößt in diese Lücke, indem er zunächst die theoretischen Besonderheiten der Rente diskutiert und zwei Hypothesen zu deren Rückbau und der Rolle der Parteien dabei formuliert. Im Anschluss an eine Methodendiskussion präsentieren wir die Ergebnisse von (robustheitsgetesteten) Regressionsanalysen der Veränderungen der Lohnersatzraten in 18 entwickelten Demokratien. Es zeigt sich, dass die Kürzungen der Lohnersatzraten im Rentenbereich weitaus geringer ausfallen als in den beiden anderen Bereichen, und dass sich die Parteieneffekte auffallend unterscheiden.
Effects of In Situ Remediation Using Oxidants or Surfactants on Subsurface Organic Matter and Sorption of Trichloroethene
Authors: Pan Leanna Woods , Siegrist Robert L. , Crimi Michelle
Published: January 2012

In situ remediation technologies have the potential to alter subsurface properties such as natural organic matter (NOM) content or character, which could affect the organic carbon‐water partitioning behavior of chlorinated organic solvents, including dense nonaqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs). Laboratory experiments were completed to determine the nature and extent of changes in the partitioning behavior of trichloroethene (TCE) caused by in situ chemical oxidation or in situ surfactant flushing. Sandy porous media were obtained from the subsurface at a site in Orlando, Florida. Experiments were run using soil slurries in zero‐headspace reactors (ZHRs) following a factorial design to study the effects of porous media properties (sand vs. loamy sand with different total organic carbon [TOC] contents), TCE concentration (DNAPL presence or absence), and remediation agent type (potassium permanganate vs. activated sodium persulfate, Dowfax 8390 vs. Tween 80). Results revealed that the fraction of organic carbon (foc) of porous media after treatment by oxidants or surfactants was higher or lower relative to that in the untreated media controls. Isotherm experiments were run using the treated and control media to measure the distribution coefficient (Kd) of TCE. Organic carbon‐water partitioning coefficient values (Koc) calculated from the experimental data revealed that Koc values for TCE in the porous media were altered via treatment using oxidants and surfactants. This alteration can affect the validity of estimates of contaminant mass remaining after remediation. Thus, potential changes in partitioning behavior should be considered to help avoid decision errors when judging the effectiveness of an in situ remediation technology.
Use of a preputial circumferential mucosal flap for hypospadias management in a Boston terrier
Authors: Grossman J. , Baltzer W.
Published: January 2012

An eight‐week‐old male Boston terrier presented for penile desiccation and urine pooling in the prepuce due to congenital hypospadias. An advancement flap was created from the dorsal mucosa of the incompletely formed prepuce and sutured circumferentially to construct a longer distal preputial mucosa. V‐ to Y‐plasty of the ventral abdominal skin was utilised to create the preputial skin overlying the mucosal flap. Urethrostomy and partial penile amputation were also performed. Following surgery, the clinical signs of penile desiccation and preputial urine pooling resolved and acceptable cosmetic appearance was achieved. This technique may be considered for glandular or penile hypospadias or following resection of the ventral aspect of the distal prepuce when inadequate tissue is present for a simple two‐layer closure of the preputial mucosa and skin.
When risk‐based regulation aims low: Approaches and challenges
Authors: Black Julia , Baldwin Robert
Published: January 2012

Risk‐based regulation is becoming a familiar regulatory strategy in a wide range of areas and countries. Regulatory attention tends to focus, at least initially, on high risks but low‐risk regulatees or activities tend to form the bulk of the regulated population. This article asks why regulators need to address low risks and it outlines the potential difficulties that such risks present. It then considers how regulators tend to deal with lower risks in practice. A body of literature and survey‐based research is used to develop a taxonomy of intervention strategies that may be useful in relation to low‐risk activities, and, indeed, more widely. In an article to be published in the subsequent issue of this journal, we will then develop a strategic framework for regulators to employ when choosing intervention strategies and we will assesses whether, and how, such a framework could be used by regulatory agencies in a manner that is operable, dynamic, transparent, and justifiable.
Role of gel test and flow cytometry in diagnosis of Coombs’ negative autoimmune haemolytic anaemia
Authors: FAYEK M. H. , SAAD A.A. , EISSA D. G. , TAWFIK L. M. , KAMAL G.
Published: January 2012

Introduction:  This study evaluated the use of both gel test (GT) and flow cytometry (FC) techniques in the detection of red blood cell‐bound immunoglobulin G (IgG) and, hence, the diagnosis of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) in cases that were negative by the conventional tube technique (CTT) direct antiglobulin test (DAT).

Methods:  The study enrolled 50 clinically diagnosed AIHA patients with CTT Coombs’ negative test and 55 control subjects. GT and FC were performed on both groups.

Results:  Ninety‐two percent (46/50) of patients were positive by GT. As for FC assay, the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve determined that a cut‐off of 17.5% fluorescence was the best value for interpreting FC‐DAT positively in the group of patients with haemolytic anaemia (100% sensitivity and specificity), while the best cut‐off for mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was 1.74, with 76% specificity and 96% sensitivity. Both mean percent fluorescence and MFI were significantly higher among patients when compared to controls (P < 0.001). FC assay results showed no statistically significant correlations with patients’ laboratory data or GT grades (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:  Flow cytometry is more sensitive than GT for assessing CTT‐DAT‐negative AIHA. We propose that FC percent fluorescence cut‐off values should be employed to determine the Coombs’ negative AIHA cases.