bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trafficking of neurokinin‐1 receptors in serotonin neurons is controlled by substance P within the rat dorsal raphe nucleus
Authors: Lacoste Baptiste , Riad Mustapha , Ratté Marc‐Olivier , Boye Sandra M. , Lévesque Daniel , Descarries Laurent
Published: May 2009

Substance P (SP) modulates serotonin neurotransmission via neurokinin‐1 receptors (NK1rs), and exerts regulatory effects on mood through habenular afferents to the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). We have previously demonstrated that, in the caudal DRN of rat, some serotonin neurons are endowed with NK1rs that are mostly cytoplasmic, whereas these receptors are mostly membrane bound in non‐serotonin neurons. Here, we first examined by double‐labeling immunocytochemistry the relationships between SP axon terminals and these two categories of DRN neurons. Almost half of the SP terminals were synaptic and many were in close contact with serotonin dendrites, but never with non‐serotonin dendrites. In additional double‐immunolabeling experiments, most if not all dendrites bearing membranous NK1rs appeared to be GABAergic. Treatment with the selective neurokinin‐1 antagonist RP67580 modified the subcellular distribution of NK1rs in serotonin neurons. At 1 h after administration of a single dose, the receptor distribution was unchanged in both dendritic types but, after daily administration for 7 or 21 days, the plasma membrane and cytoplasmic density of NK1rs were increased in serotonin dendrites, without any change in non‐serotonin dendrites. These treatments also increased NK1r gene expression in the caudal DRN. Lastly, a marked increase in the membrane (but not cytoplasmic) density of NK1rs was measured in serotonin dendrites after bilateral habenular lesion. These results suggest that the trafficking of NK1rs represents a cellular mechanism in control of the modulation of serotonin neuron activity by SP in DRN.
Reflexive Evaluation of an Academic–Industry Research Collaboration: Can Mode 2 Management Research be Achieved?
Authors: Mitev Nathalie , Venters Will
Published: May 2009

abstract

We present a reflexive retrospective account of a UK government research council funded project deploying knowledge management software to support environmental sustainability in the construction industry. This project was set up in a form typical of a Mode 2 research programme involving several academic institutions and industrial partners, and aspiring to fulfil the Mode 2 criteria seen as transdisciplinarity and business relevance. The multidisciplinary nature is analysed through retrospectively reflecting upon the research process and activities we carried out, and is found to be problematic. No real consensus was reached between the partners on the ‘context of application’. Difficulties between industry and academia, within industry and within academia led to diverging agendas and different alignments for participants. The context of application does not (pre‐)exist independently of institutional influences, and in itself cannot drive transdisciplinarity since it is subject to competing claims and negotiations. There were unresolved tensions in terms of private vs. public construction companies and their expectations of ICT‐based knowledge management, and in terms of the sustainable construction agenda. This post hoc reflexive account, enables us to critique our own roles in having developed a managerial technology for technically sophisticated and powerful private industrial actors to the detriment of public sector construction partners, having bypassed sustainability issues, and not reached transdisciplinarity. We argue that this is due to institutional pressures and instrumentalization from academia, industry and government and a restricted notion of business relevance. There exists a politically motivated tendency to oppose Mode 1 academic research to practitioner‐oriented Mode 2 approaches to management research. We argue that valuing the links between co‐existing Mode 1 and 2 research activities would support a more genuine and fuller exploration of the context of application.
Unequal ‘cultures’? Racial integration at a South African university
Authors: Sharp John , Vally Rehana
Published: May 2009

This article examines the process of racial integration at the University of Pretoria since the demise of apartheid. The university has taken significant steps to achieve fairer representation of the different ‘races’, but has not succeeded in diminishing student perceptions of the overwhelming importance of racial identities. Some suggest that this is because white, Afrikaans‐speaking students continue to display racial prejudice against fellow students who are black. We argue that while this may be so, a more important obstacle lies in the institution's adherence to a discourse involving an easy substitution of ‘culture’ for ‘race’ as a means to describe ‘difference’ in South Africa. This discourse, which has a long history at the university, serves to divert attention from the racialised inequalities that underpin the salience of racial identities.
A new synthesis: Resituating approaches to the evolution of human behaviour
Authors: Fuentes Agustín
Published: May 2009

Most anthropologists would agree that humans are simultaneously historical, biological, behavioral, and social. However, many researchers retain a relatively dualistic paradigm dividing anthropological questions into biological and/or social aspects. Many practitioners of Neo‐Darwinian perspectives prioritize natural selection in all explanations of human evolution. Many other anthropologists refuse to acknowledge a significant role for biological features and biological histories in human action, sensation, and engagement. Both perspectives are misplaced. Incorporating emerging perspectives in evolutionary theory into the broader anthropological discourse may help discard simplistic dualisms and resituate our assessments of the evolution of human behavior. In this essay I review three major emergent themes in evolutionary theory; Multi‐Inheritance Systems Theory, Developmental Systems Theory, and Niche Construction. I suggest, with one brief example, that placing these elements in transaction with other perspectives in anthropology might enhance the possibilities of assessing human evolution and behavior.
VARIATIONAL BAYESIAN ANALYSIS FOR HIDDEN MARKOV MODELS
Authors: McGrory C. A. , Titterington D. M.
Published: May 2009

The variational approach to Bayesian inference enables simultaneous estimation of model parameters and model complexity. An interesting feature of this approach is that it also leads to an automatic choice of model complexity. Empirical results from the analysis of hidden Markov models with Gaussian observation densities illustrate this. If the variational algorithm is initialized with a large number of hidden states, redundant states are eliminated as the method converges to a solution, thereby leading to a selection of the number of hidden states. In addition, through the use of a variational approximation, the deviance information criterion for Bayesian model selection can be extended to the hidden Markov model framework. Calculation of the deviance information criterion provides a further tool for model selection, which can be used in conjunction with the variational approach.
UPPER BOUNDS ON THE MINIMUM COVERAGE PROBABILITY OF CONFIDENCE INTERVALS IN REGRESSION AFTER MODEL SELECTION
Authors: Kabaila Paul , Giri Khageswor
Published: May 2009

We consider a linear regression model, with the parameter of interest a specified linear combination of the components of the regression parameter vector. We suppose that, as a first step, a data‐based model selection (e.g. by preliminary hypothesis tests or minimizing the Akaike information criterion – AIC) is used to select a model. It is common statistical practice to then construct a confidence interval for the parameter of interest, based on the assumption that the selected model had been given to us a priori. This assumption is false, and it can lead to a confidence interval with poor coverage properties. We provide an easily computed finite‐sample upper bound (calculated by repeated numerical evaluation of a double integral) to the minimum coverage probability of this confidence interval. This bound applies for model selection by any of the following methods: minimum AIC, minimum Bayesian information criterion (BIC), maximum adjusted R2, minimum Mallows' CP and t‐tests. The importance of this upper bound is that it delineates general categories of design matrices and model selection procedures for which this confidence interval has poor coverage properties. This upper bound is shown to be a finite‐sample analogue of an earlier large‐sample upper bound due to Kabaila and Leeb.
Estimation in nonstationary random coefficient autoregressive models
Authors: Berkes István , Horváth Lajos , Ling Shiqing
Published: May 2009

Abstract.  We investigate the estimation of parameters in the random coefficient autoregressive (RCA) model Xk = (ϕ + bk)Xk−1 + ek, where (ϕ, ω2, σ2) is the parameter of the process, , . We consider a nonstationary RCA process satisfying E log |ϕ + b0| ≥ 0 and show that σ2 cannot be estimated by the quasi‐maximum likelihood method. The asymptotic normality of the quasi‐maximum likelihood estimator for (ϕ, ω2) is proven so that the unit root problem does not exist in the RCA model.
The Co‐movement of Credit Default Swap, Bond and Stock Markets: an Empirical Analysis
Authors: Norden Lars , Weber Martin
Published: May 2009

We analyse the relationship between credit default swap (CDS), bond and stock markets during 2000–2002. Focusing on the intertemporal co‐movement, we examine monthly, weekly and daily lead‐lag relationships in a vector autoregressive model and the adjustment between markets caused by cointegration. First, we find that stock returns lead CDS and bond spread changes. Second, CDS spread changes Granger cause bond spread changes for a higher number of firms than vice versa. Third, the CDS market is more sensitive to the stock market than the bond market and the strength of the co‐movement increases the lower the credit quality and the larger the bond issues. Finally, the CDS market contributes more to price discovery than the bond market and this effect is stronger for US than for European firms.
Why Do Western European Firms Issue Convertibles Instead of Straight Debt or Equity?
Authors: Dutordoir Marie , Van de Gucht Linda
Published: May 2009

Unlike their US counterparts, European convertible debt issuers tend to be large companies with small debt‐ and equity‐related financing costs. Therefore, it is puzzling why these firms issue convertibles instead of standard financing instruments. This paper examines European convertible debt issuer motivations by estimating a security choice model that incorporates convertibles, straight debt, and equity. We find that European convertibles are used as sweetened debt, not as delayed equity. This motivation is reflected in the debt‐like design of most European convertible issues.
Market Feedback, Investment Constraints, and Managerial Behavior
Authors: Hill Paula , Hillier David
Published: May 2009

This paper examines the joint role of market feedback and investment constraints on managerial behavior. Using a sample of UK fixed price initial public offerings, we show that underperformance of share returns at the IPO significantly affects managerial investment decisions in the period after the offering. Firms with better investment opportunities and proportionately lower fixed (higher intangible) assets are more sensitive to negative market feedback. Over the longer term, the more responsive firms perform significantly better than their non‐responsive counterparts. The findings contribute to the debate on the informational advantage of managers over investors and present strong evidence that the market, on aggregate, can provide a superior assessment of a firm's opportunities. Managers who are able to respond to negative market feedback can significantly improve their firm's future prospects.
Defendant Firms and Response to Legal Crises: Effect on Shareholder Value
Authors: Jang Woan‐Yuh , Chen Chien‐Tzung
Published: May 2009

This paper examines links between institutional responses to legal crises and shareholder valuation. It explores whether the defendant firm's market performance upon the announcement of a filing varies according to the crisis response strategies applied. It also investigates the relationship between the legal issue and the type of crisis response strategy. It examines whether the type of legal issue affects the relationship between the use of crisis response strategies and the firm's performance upon the announcement of a filing. The findings indicate that using nonexistence and distance strategies instead of no response may mitigate negative market response. However, when firms face corporate governance suits, whether or not they implemented crisis response strategies has a significantly negative impact on firm value.
Mapping Research on Culture and Safety in High‐Risk Organizations: Arguments for a Sociotechnical Understanding of Safety Culture
Authors: Nævestad Tor‐Olav
Published: May 2009

In this paper, I suggest that a major challenge of much safety culture research is that it runs the risk of neglecting the organizational, meso level. Consequentially, it often seems to lack a proper conceptualization of the relationship between culture, technology and structure in high‐risk organizations. High‐reliability organizations (HRO) research, on the other hand, focuses on this relationship. The aim of the paper is to develop an understanding of safety culture that incorporates some of the HRO approach's insights regarding the relationship between safety, culture, technology and structure. I outline and discuss the research on safety culture and the HRO approach's treatment of culture and safety, before I suggest a sociotechnical understanding of safety culture.
Is ocular voltage propagation to the electroencephalogram frequency dependent?
Authors: Pham Trieu T. H. , Croft Rodney J. , Cadusch Peter J.
Published: May 2009

Conventional eye correction methods subtract portions (propagation coefficients; Bs) of electrooculogram (EOG) voltages from the electroencephalogram (EEG). The frequency domain approach (FDA) uses different Bs for different frequencies whereas the time domain approach (TDA) uses the same Bs. To determine whether measured Bs are dependent on frequency and whether one should employ frequency‐dependent methods, 20 min of EEG from eye movement (EM) and blink data (24 participants) were recorded, and Bs were calculated for eye movement ERPs of differing signal‐to‐noise ratios for frequency bands ranging from 0 to 40 Hz and compared. At high signal to noise, EM Bs for different frequency bands did not differ, for both vertical and horizontal EOG, at all scalp sites tested. There were small differences in blink Bs for different bands, but smaller than the margin of error of this analysis. This indicates that TDA may be more appropriate than FDA.
Neurophysics of temporal discrimination in the rat: A mismatch negativity study
Authors: Roger Clémence , Hasbroucq Thierry , Rabat Arnaud , Vidal Franck , Burle BorÍs
Published: May 2009

Behavioral estimates of time discrimination threshold on animals might be contaminated by the conditioning procedure used and by attentional effects. To avoid such side effects, we measured time discrimination by recording the rat electroencephalographic response to small temporal variations. Freely moving rats were presented with repetitive sounds, some of them being occasionally shorter than the standard, to produce a Mismatch Negativity (MMN) which is known to primarily involve preattentive processes. The smallest difference eliciting a MMN located the discrimination threshold between 16% and 33% of the standard, without attentional confound. Being observed in several species, MMN can be used to decipher both the phylogenetic and ontogenetic evolution of time discrimination, without attentional confound.
The effects of paced breathing on respiratory resistance are minimal in healthy individuals
Authors: Ritz Thomas , Dahme Bernhard
Published: May 2009

Paced breathing has been criticized for its presumed influences on autonomic and respiratory regulation, among that on respiratory resistance. It has been speculated that excessive pulmonary stretch receptor activation through high tidal volume (VT) would be the mechanism underlying such influences. However, the idea of airway dilation by paced breathing has remained untested. We analyzed inspiratory and expiratory resistance measured by forced oscillations in 26 healthy participants during baseline and two paced breathing conditions, regular pacing with instructions to alter rate only and pacing with additional instructions to alter volume randomly throughout the task. In each condition, four 3‐min paced breathing trials at 8, 10.5, 13, and 18 breaths/min were administered. Despite pronounced changes in respiration rates and VT across pacing trials, neither inspiratory nor expiratory resistance were changed significantly under the regular paced breathing condition. A small reduction in resistance was only observed under conditions of variable volume at 18 breaths/min. Thus, regular paced breathing at different speeds across a range of naturally occurring breathing frequencies has only minimal effects on resistance of the airway passages.
Novel imine antioxidants at low nanomolar concentrations protect dopaminergic cells from oxidative neurotoxicity
Authors: Hajieva Parvana , Mocko Justyna B. , Moosmann Bernd , Behl Christian
Published: May 2009

Strong evidence indicates that oxidative stress may be causally involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease. We have employed human dopaminergic neuroblastoma cells and rat primary mesencephalic neurons to assess the protective potential of three novel bisarylimine antioxidants on dopaminergic cell death induced by complex I inhibition or glutathione depletion. We have found that exceptionally low concentrations (EC50 values ∼20 nM) of these compounds (iminostilbene, phenothiazine, and phenoxazine) exhibited strong protective effects against the toxicities of MPP+, rotenone, and l‐buthionine sulfoximine. Investigating intracellular glutathione levels, it was found that MPP+, l‐buthionine sulfoximine, and rotenone disrupted different aspects of the native glutathione equilibrium, while the aromatic imines did not further influence glutathione levels or redox state on any baseline. However, the imines independently reduced protein oxidation and total oxidant flux, saved the mitochondrial membrane potential, and provided full cytoprotection under conditions of complete glutathione depletion. The unusually potent antioxidant effects of the bisarylimines could be reproduced in isolated mitochondria, which were instantly protected from lipid peroxidation and pathological swelling. Aromatic imines may be interesting lead structures for a potential antioxidant therapy of Parkinson’s disease and other disorders accompanied by glutathione dysregulation.
Cost Implications of Organizing Nursing Home Workforce in Teams
Authors: Mukamel Dana B. , Cai Shubing , Temkin‐Greener Helena
Published: May 2009

Objective. To estimate the costs associated with formal and self‐managed daily practice teams in nursing homes.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Medicaid cost reports for 135 nursing homes in New York State in 2006 and survey data for 6,137 direct care workers.

Study Design. A retrospective statistical analysis: We estimated hybrid cost functions that include team penetration variables. Inference was based on robust standard errors.

Data Collection. Formal and self‐managed team penetration (i.e., percent of staff working in a team) were calculated from survey responses. Annual variable costs, beds, case mix‐adjusted days, admissions, home care visits, outpatient clinic visits, day care days, wages, and ownership were calculated from the cost reports.

Principal Findings. Formal team penetration was significantly associated with costs, while self‐managed teams penetration was not. Costs declined with increasing penetration up to 13 percent of formal teams, and increased above this level. Formal teams in nursing homes in the upward sloping range of the curve were more diverse, with a larger number of participating disciplines and more likely to include physicians.

Conclusions. Organization of workforce in formal teams may offer nursing homes a cost‐saving strategy. More research is required to understand the relationship between team composition and costs.
Dual modulation of urinary bladder activity and urine flow by prostanoid EP3receptors in the conscious rat
Authors: Jugus MJ , Jaworski JP , Patra PB , Jin J , Morrow DM , Laping NJ , Edwards RM , Thorneloe KS
Published: May 2009

Background and purpose: Cyclooxygenase inhibitors function to reduce levels of prostaglandin E2(PGE2) and are broadly efficacious in models of bladder overactivity. We therefore investigated a regulation of urinary bladder function in conscious rats by modulation of the EP3receptor for PGE2.

Experimental approach: The activity of the EP3receptor agonist GR63799X, and EP3receptor antagonists, CM9 and DG041, at recombinant EP3receptors was evaluatedin vitro.In vivo, intraduodenal dosing during conscious, continuous‐filling cystometry of spontaneously hypertensive rats was utilized to determine the urodynamic effect of EP3receptor modulation.

Key results: GR63799X dose‐dependently (0.001–1 mg·kg−1) reduced bladder capacity, as indicated by a reduction in both the micturition interval and volume of urine per void. In contrast, CM9 (10 and 30 mg·kg−1) and DG041 (30 mg·kg−1) enhanced bladder capacity, as indicated by significantly longer micturition intervals and larger void volumes. CM9 and DG041 inhibited the responses to GR63799X supporting thein vivoactivity of these pharmacological agents at the EP3receptor. In addition to its effect on bladder capacity, GR63799X increased endogenous urine production. Intra‐arterial infusion of saline mimicked the enhancement of urine flow observed with GR63799X, and the response was inhibited by CM9.

Conclusions and implications: These data support the EP3receptor as a modulator of urinary bladder activity in the conscious rat, and in addition, indicate a role for EP3receptor activity in regulating urine flow.
Acute Treatment of Intractable Migraine With Sphenopalatine Ganglion Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Tepper Stewart J. , Rezai Ali , Narouze Samer , Steiner Charles , Mohajer Pouya , Ansarinia Mehdi
Published: May 2009

Background.— We report preliminary results of a novel acute treatment for intractable migraine. The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) has sensorimotor and autonomic components and is involved in migraine pathophysiology.

Methods.— In 11 patients with medically refractory migraine, the sphenopalatine fossa was accessed with a 20‐gauge needle using the standard infrazygomatic transcoronoid approach under fluoroscopy. Patients underwent temporary unilateral electric stimulation of the SPG with a Medtronic 3057 test stimulation lead after induction of full‐blown migraine. Both sham and active stimulations with different settings were carried out for ≤60 minutes, and then the lead was removed.

Results.— In 11 evaluations, 2 patients were pain‐free within 3 minutes of stimulation. Three had pain reduction; 5 had no response; 1 was not stimulated. Five patients had no pain relief. Stimulation settings: mean amplitude of 1.2V, mean pulse rate of 67 Hz, mean pulse width of 462 µs. Lack of headache relief appeared linked to suboptimal lead placement, poor physiologic sensory response to localization stimulation, and diagnosis of medication overuse headache.

Conclusion.— This study suggests a possible role for SPG stimulation in the treatment of refractory migraine headaches.
Extreme College Drinking and Alcohol‐Related Injury Risk
Authors: Mundt Marlon P. , Zakletskaia Larissa I. , Fleming Michael F.
Published: May 2009

Background:  Despite the enormous burden of alcohol‐related injuries, the direct connection between college drinking and physical injury has not been well understood. The goal of this study was to assess the connection between alcohol consumption levels and college alcohol‐related injury risk.

Methods:  A total of 12,900 college students seeking routine care in 5 college health clinics completed a general Health Screening Survey. Of these, 2,090 students exceeded at‐risk alcohol use levels and participated in a face‐to‐face interview to determine eligibility for a brief alcohol intervention trial. The eligibility interview assessed past 28‐day alcohol use and alcohol‐related injuries in the past 6 months. Risk of alcohol‐related injury was compared across daily drinking quantities and frequencies. Logistic regression analysis and the Bayesian Information Criterion were applied to compute the odds of alcohol‐related injury based on daily drinking totals after adjusting for age, race, site, body weight, and sensation seeking.

Results:  Male college students in the study were 19% more likely (95% CI: 1.12–1.26) to suffer an alcohol‐related injury with each additional day of consuming 8 or more drinks. Injury risks among males increased marginally with each day of consuming 5 to 7 drinks (odds ratio = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.94–1.13). Female participants were 10% more likely (95% CI: 1.04–1.16) to suffer an alcohol‐related injury with each additional day of drinking 5 or more drinks. Males (OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.14–2.50) and females (OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.27–2.57) with higher sensation‐seeking scores were more likely to suffer alcohol‐related injuries.

Conclusions:  College health clinics may want to focus limited alcohol injury prevention resources on students who frequently engage in extreme drinking, defined in this study as 8+M/5+F drinks per day, and score high on sensation‐seeking disposition.
Sensitization of Ventral Tegmental Area Dopamine Neurons to the Stimulating Effects of Ethanol
Authors: Ding Zheng‐Ming , Rodd Zachary A. , Engleman Eric A. , McBride William J.
Published: May 2009

Background: Previous studies indicated that chronic alcohol drinking increased the sensitivity of the posterior ventral tegmental area (p‐VTA) to the reinforcing effects of ethanol. The current study tested the hypothesis that local exposure of the p‐VTA to ethanol would increase the sensitivity of dopamine (DA) neurons to the stimulating effects of ethanol.

Methods: Experiment 1 examined the stimulating effects of ethanol in the p‐VTA after a 7‐day ethanol pretreatment in the p‐VTA. Adult female Wistar rats were pretreated with microinjections of 200 mg% ethanol or artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) into the p‐VTA once a day for 7 days. On the eighth day, rats received a challenge injection of ethanol (100, 200, or 300 mg%) or aCSF into the p‐VTA, and extracellular DA levels were measured in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell with microdialysis. Experiment 2 examined the stimulating effects of ethanol (200 mg%) after a 3‐ or 5‐day ethanol (200 mg%) pretreatment in the p‐VTA. Experiment 3 examined the stimulating effects of ethanol (200 mg%) 7 days after the last of the 7‐day ethanol (200 mg%) pretreatments in the p‐VTA.

Results: Experiment 1: in both aCSF‐ and ethanol‐pretreated rats, the challenge microinjection of ethanol dose‐dependently increased DA release in the NAc shell, with significantly greater increases in ethanol‐pretreated groups. Experiment 2: the 5‐day, but not 3‐day, ethanol pretreatment protocol increased the response of p‐VTA dopamine neurons to the ethanol challenge. Experiment 3: the increased stimulating effects of ethanol were still evident after 7 days.

Conclusions: The results indicate that repeated local ethanol exposure of the p‐VTA produced neuroadaptations in DA neurons projecting to the NAc shell, resulting in a persistent increase in the sensitivity of these neurons to the stimulating effects of ethanol.
A Double‐Blind Trial of Gabapentin Versus Lorazepam in the Treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal
Authors: Myrick Hugh , Malcolm Robert , Randall Patrick K. , Boyle Elizabeth , Anton Raymond F. , Becker Howard C. , Randall Carrie L.
Published: May 2009

Introduction:  Some anticonvulsants ameliorate signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, but have an unacceptable side effect burden. Among the advantages of using anticonvulsant agents in this capacity is their purported lack of interaction with alcohol that could increase psychomotor deficits, increase cognitive impairment, or increase intoxication. The aim of this study was to evaluate alcohol use and symptom reduction of gabapentin when compared with lorazepam in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal in a double‐blinded randomized clinical trial.

Methods:  One hundred individuals seeking outpatient treatment of alcohol withdrawal with Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol–Revised (CIWA‐Ar) ratings ≥10 were randomized to double‐blind treatment with 2 doses of gabapentin (900 mg tapering to 600 mg or 1200 tapering to 800 mg) or lorazepam (6 mg tapering to 4 mg) for 4 days. Severity of alcohol withdrawal was measured by the CIWA‐Ar on days 1 to 4 of treatment and on days 5, 7, and 12 post‐treatment and alcohol use monitored by verbal report and breath alcohol levels.

Results:  CIWA‐Ar scores decreased over time in all groups; high‐dose gabapentin was statistically superior but clinically similar to lorazepam (p = 0.009). During treatment, lorazepam‐treated participants had higher probabilities of drinking on the first day of dose decrease (day 2) and the second day off medication (day 6) compared to gabapentin‐treated participants (p = 0.0002). Post‐treatment, gabapentin‐treated participants had less probability of drinking during the follow‐up post‐treatment period (p = 0.2 for 900 mg and p = 0.3 for 1200 mg) compared to the lorazepam‐treated participants (p = 0.55). The gabapentin groups also had less craving, anxiety, and sedation compared to lorazepam.

Conclusions:  Gabapentin was well tolerated and effectively diminished the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal in our population especially at the higher target dose (1200 mg) used in this study. Gabapentin reduced the probability of drinking during alcohol withdrawal and in the immediate postwithdrawal week compared to lorazepam.
Screening for Hazardous Drinking Using the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test–Geriatric Version (MAST‐G) in Elderly Persons With Acute Cerebrovascular Accidents
Authors: Johnson‐Greene Doug , McCaul Mary E. , Roger Patricia
Published: May 2009

Background:  Effective and valid screening methods are needed to identify hazardous drinking in elderly persons with new onset acute medical illness. The goal of the current study was to examine the effectiveness of the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test–Geriatric Version (MAST‐G) in identifying hazardous drinking among elderly patients with acute cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) and to compare the effectiveness of 2 shorter versions of the MAST‐G with the full instrument.

Methods:  The study sample included 100 men and women who averaged 12 days posthemorrhagic or ischemic CVA admitted to a rehabilitation unit and who were at least 50 years of age and free of substance use other than alcohol. This cross‐sectional validation study compared the 24‐item full MAST‐G, the 10‐item Short MAST‐G (SMAST‐G), and a 2‐item regression analysis derived Mini MAST‐G (MMAST‐G) to the reference standard of hazardous drinking during the past 3 months. Alcohol use was collected using the Timeline Followback (TLFB). Recent and lifetime alcohol‐related consequences were collected using the Short Inventory of Problems (SIP).

Results:  Nearly one‐third (28%) of the study sample met the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for hazardous drinking. Moderately strong associations were found for the MAST‐G, SMAST‐G, and MMAST‐G with alcohol quantity and frequency and recent and lifetime alcohol consequences. All 3 MAST‐G versions could differentiate hazardous from nonhazardous drinkers and had nearly identical area under the curve characteristics. Comparable sensitivity was found across the 3 MAST‐G measures. The optimal screening threshold for hazardous drinking was 5 for the MAST‐G, 2 for the SMAST‐G, and 1 for the MMAST‐G.

Conclusions:  The 10‐item SMAST‐G and 2‐item MMAST‐G are brief screening tests that show comparable effectiveness in detecting hazardous drinking in elderly patients with acute CVA compared with the full 24‐item MAST‐G. Implications for research and clinical practice are discussed.
Catalytic Effect of CaF2 Nanoparticles on Sintering Behavior of Kaolin‐Based Materials
Authors: Lomeli Martha , Flores‐Velez Luisa Maria , Esparza Imelda , Torres Roberto , Domínguez Octavio
Published: May 2009

The present work represents preliminary results concerning the effect of nanometric CaF2 particles on the sintering behavior of kaolin. The nanoparticles were synthesized using aqueous solutions of CaCl2 dissolved with an organic dispersant and HF. The morphology and particle size of the obtained nanoparticles were square‐like, having a mean length of 25 nm. Kaolin was mixed with different amounts of nanometric CaF2 (from 0.625 to 5.0 wt%) and the mixtures were milled, pressed, and sintered. From sintering experiments, it was observed that additions of CaF2 nanoparticles in kaolin clay could shift the phase transition temperatures to lower values. Specifically, the densification temperature could be reduced by almost 150°C when 2.5 wt% of CaF2 was incorporated. Besides, adding 1.25% of nanometric CaF2 can achieve that compressive strength augments from 125 to 185 MPa in kaolin samples sintered at 1200°C, meaning an improvement of 40% in the properties of the final material.
Low‐Temperature Fabrication and Enhanced Ferro‐ and Piezoelectric Properties of Bi3.7Nd0.3Ti3O12 Films on Indium TinOxide/Glass Substrates
Authors: Jiao Lili , Liu Zongming , Hu Guangda , Cui Shougang , Jin Zhijie , Wang Qi , Wu Weibing , Yang Changhong
Published: May 2009

Bi3.7Nd0.3Ti3O12 (BNT0.3) films were fabricated on indium tin oxide/glass substrates using a metal organic decomposition method at temperatures ranging from 500° to 650°C. A predominantly (100)‐oriented BNT0.3 film can be obtained even at 550°C. The growth mode of the predominantly (100)‐oriented BNT0.3 films fabricated by the sequential layer annealing method was discussed based on the structure evolution with the annealing temperature and the film thickness. The largest values of the remanent polarization and piezoresponse are observed in the BNT0.3 film annealed at 650°C, which can be ascribed to the grain growth and the release of the in‐plane residue tension stress.
Formation and Microwave Dielectric Properties of the Mg2V2O7 Ceramics
Authors: Joung Mi‐Ri , Kim Jin‐Seong , Song Myung‐Eun , Nahm Sahn , Paik Jong‐Hoo , Choi Byung‐Hyun
Published: May 2009

The formation process and microwave dielectric properties of the Mg2V2O7 ceramics were investigated. The MgV2O6 phase that was formed at around 450°C interacted with remnant MgO above 590°C to form a homogeneous monoclinic Mg2V2O7 phase. Finally, this monoclinic Mg2V2O7 phase was changed to a triclinic Mg2V2O7 phase for the specimen fired at 800°C. Sintering at 950°C for more than 5 h produced high‐density triclinic Mg2V2O7 ceramics. In particular, the Mg2V2O7 ceramics sintered at 950°C for 10 h exhibited the good microwave dielectric properties of ɛr=10.5, Q×f=58 275 GHz, and τf=−26.9 ppm/°C.
Microcavity Formation in Alumina Using Ti Templates I: Formation Conditions
Authors: Goodshaw Heather J. , Forrester Jennifer S. , Hanson Ronald E. , Kisi Erich H. , Suaning Gregg J.
Published: May 2009

It has been found that fully enclosed microcavities can be engineered within Al2O3 ceramics using 125 μm diameter Ti wires as templates. A high‐energy milling pretreatment of the alumina causes diffusion of the Ti into the surrounding alumina leaving all of the Kirkendall porosity consolidated into a central cavity. Control experiments using unmilled alumina confirm the necessity of the milling procedure and experiments with different milling media have excluded incidental doping by milling induced contamination as a primary driver of cavity formation. The internal microcavities produced here may lead to new applications in small scale instrumentation and implantable therapeutic devices.
Enhanced Piezoelectric Properties in Mn‐Doped 0.98K0.5Na0.5NbO3–0.02BiScO3 Lead‐Free Ceramics
Authors: Li Xuhai , Jiang Meng , Liu Jing , Zhu Jiliang , Zhu Xiaohong , Zhu Jianguo , Xiao Dingquan
Published: May 2009

Mn‐doped 0.98K0.5Na0.5NbO3–0.02BiScO3 (0.98KNN–0.02BS) lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics have been prepared by a conventional sintering technique and the effects of Mn doping on the phase structure and piezoelectric properties of the ceramics have been studied. Our results reveal that a small amount of Mn can improve the densification of the ceramics effectively. Because of the high densification, fine grain, and Mn doping effects, the piezoelectric and dielectric properties of the ceramics are improved considerably. Very good piezoelectric and dielectric properties of d33=288 pC/N, kp=0.46, ɛr=1591, and TC=328°C were obtained for the 0.98KNN–0.02BS ceramics doped with 0.8 mol% Mn. Therefore, the 0.98KNN–0.02BS ceramics containing a small amount of Mn are a good candidate material for lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics.
Characterization of the Amorphous Phase and the Nanosized Crystallites in High‐Energy‐Milled Lead–Magnesium–Niobate Powder
Authors: Kuscer Danjela , Šturm Elena Tchernychova , Kovač Janez , Kosec Marija
Published: May 2009

We have studied the formation of lead–magnesium–niobate Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 perovskite powder produced by high‐energy milling of the constituent oxides. By applying a low ball‐impact energy and a low ball‐impact frequency we were able to identify the reaction sequences. The crystal structure and the amount of crystalline and amorphous phases in the powder were determined using a Rietveld refinement. The morphology, structure and chemical composition of the powder were investigated by transmission electron microscopy. The surface composition, possible contamination and the chemical states of the elements were analyzed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In the early stage of milling the constituent oxides comminute, refine to nanosize dimensions and become amorphous. In the second step the Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 nucleates from the amorphous regions where the stoichiometry corresponds to the perovskite. The perovskite phase nucleates and subsequently grows over the course of the milling. Simultaneously, the pyrochlore phase nucleates from the Pb‐ and Nb‐rich regions; however, its nucleation and recrystallization stop after a certain milling time. The powder mixture consists of nanosized Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 particles and an amorphous phase when milled for 94 h. No traces of contamination from the milling media were detected.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Oriented Anatase Films Consisting of Columnar Aggregates and Their Wetting Properties
Authors: Ban Takayuki , Nakashima Naoya , Nakatani Tomohiko , Ohya Yutaka
Published: May 2009

We hydrothermally synthesized anatase films on Ti substrates from transparent aqueous solutions of layered titanate colloids. The morphology and wetting properties of the films were examined. The films consisted of columnar aggregates grown on the Ti substrates, which resulted in high orientation. Randomly oriented films were obtained when alumina was used as a substrate, whereas the sol–gel precoating of a titanium oxide (TiO2) layer on alumina substrates resulted in similar orientation as that of the films on Ti substrates. Thus, the presence of TiO2 on the substrate surface plays an important role in the orientation of columnar aggregates. The columnar aggregates were similar in microstructure to the arms of a type of six‐pointed star‐like anatase aggregate synthesized hydrothermally from the same reaction solutions. They were composed of twins of tapered anatase nanocrystals, which provided a rough film surface. The film surface was highly hydrophilic and oleophilic due to the nanoscale roughness even when the film was not irradiated with UV light.
Improvement in the Microstructures and Dielectric Properties of Barium Strontium Titanate Glass–Ceramics by AlF3/MnO2 Addition
Authors: Chen Jichun , Zhang Yong , Deng Changsheng , Dai Xiaming
Published: May 2009

The microstructures and dielectric properties of barium strontium titanate glass–ceramics are closely related to the AlF3 and MnO2 additions. The grain morphology was changed by adding AlF3, while the dielectric loss was decreased significantly by adding MnO2. At the same time the breakdown strength (BDS) was improved by doping 4 mol% AlF3 and 1 mol% MnO2 with the glass–ceramics. The present investigation resulted in the development of glass–ceramic compositions with high dielectric BDS and low dielectric loss for high energy density capacitor applications.
Giant Dielectric Response with an Electric Field in Charge‐Ordered La1−xCaxMnO3 Compounds
Authors: Hou Ying , Yao Yiping , Zhang Genqiang , Yu Qingxuan , Li Xiaoguang
Published: May 2009

The effect of electric fields on the dielectric properties of charge‐ordered La1−xCaxMnO3 compounds is reported. A low‐frequency giant dielectric tunability can be obtained under a bias field as low as of the order of ∼10 V/cm. The analyses suggest that the giant dielectric tunability under low bias fields could be derived from the extrinsic contributions such as intergrains and Schottky barriers. In addition, the tunability strongly depends on the stability of the charge‐ordered state of the compounds. These findings make it possible to achieve a high tunability of nonferroelectrics in low electric fields, indicating that it is promising for potential applications, such as tunable devices.
Synthesis and Color Evolution of Silica‐Coated Hematite Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Yi , Rao Pinggen , Lü Ming , Zeng Dezhao , Wu Jianqing
Published: May 2009

The aim of this communication is to investigate the color evolution of silica‐coated hematite nanoparticles versus treating temperature. The silica‐coated hematite nanoparticles were prepared by first suspending commercial hematite nanoparticles in an ammonia–water–2‐propanol system, and then depositing amorphous nano‐SiO2 onto the surface of hematite nanoparticles using the Stöber method. The silica‐coated nanoparticles were dripped onto biscuits and heat treated at various temperatures. The color changes of heat treated samples were determined by the CIE L*a*b* parameters, and the possible mechanism of color evolution was discussed.
Influence of Sintering Temperature on Grain Growth and Phase Structure of Compositionally Optimized High‐Performance Li/Ta‐Modified (Na,K)NbO3 Ceramics
Authors: Shen Zong‐Yang , Zhen Yuhua , Wang Ke , Li Jing‐Feng
Published: May 2009

Microstructure characteristics, phase transition, and electrical properties of (Na0.535K0.485)0.926Li0.074(Nb0.942Ta0.058)O3 (NKN‐LT) lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics prepared by normal sintering are investigated with an emphasis on the influence of sintering temperature. Some abnormal coarse grains of 20–30 μm in diameter are formed in a matrix consisting of about 2 μm fine grains when the sintering temperature was relatively low (980°C). However, only normally grown grains were observed when the sintering temperature was increased to 1020°C. On the other hand, orthorhombic and tetragonal phases coexisted in the ceramics sintered at 980°–1000°C, whereas the tetragonal phase becomes dominant when sintered above 1020°C. For the ceramics sintered at 1000°C, the piezoelectric constant d33 is enhanced to 276 pC/N, which is a high value for the Li‐ and Ta‐modified (Na,K)NbO3 ceramics system. The other piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties are as follows: planar electromechanical coupling factor kp=46.2%, thickness electromechanical coupling factor kt=36%, mechanical quality factor Qm=18, remnant polarization Pr=21.1 μC/cm2, and coercive field Ec=1.85 kV/mm.
Expert Disagreement in Bitemark Casework*
Authors: Bowers C. Michael , Pretty Iain A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  Bitemark cases continue to raise controversy due to the degree of expert disagreement which is frequently seen. Using a case mix of 49 bitemark cases from 2000 to 2007 each injury was independently assessed for its forensic significance using a previously described bitemark severity scale. Following the assessment, the mean value for the bites was categorized according to the crime type, the degree of expert agreement, and the judicial outcome. Results suggest that bitemarks found in child abuse cases have statistically significantly lower forensic value than those in other crime types, that bites where there is mutual agreement between experts will have higher forensic value than those where there is disagreement at trial, and that cases in which DNA has provided an exoneration will demonstrate similar quality to those where a conviction was secured. Forensic odontologists should carefully assess bitemark evidence and ensure that it meets certain minimums in relation to the presence of class and unique features before undertaking an analysis.
A New Digital Method for the Objective Comparison of Frontal Sinuses for Identification*
Authors: Cox Mary , Malcolm Matthew , Fairgrieve Scott I.
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  Use of the frontal sinuses for identification requires an objective method of comparison to meet Daubert standards. Christensen’s application of Elliptical Fourier Analysis and Likelihood Ratios seems to be a viable solution for this problem. The proposed method draws upon this work and attempts to simplify its application. Variation between pairs of digitized sinus tracings was quantified by summing the difference between corresponding measurements taken from a fixed origin to the outer edge of the sinus outlines using Adobe Photoshop® CS2. Same‐skull and different‐skull pairs were used to develop reference distributions from which the probability of unknown pairs coming from the same or a different individual was estimated. Error rates of 0% were achieved. Resulting correlation coefficients demonstrated inter‐rater and test–retest reliability. Further refinement of the reference distributions and more rigorous testing of error rates should make this technique applicable to casework.
Uniqueness of the Dentition as Impressed in Human Skin: A Cadaver Model*
Authors: Miller Raymond G. , Bush Peter J. , Dorion Robert B. J. , Bush Mary A.
Published: May 2009

Abstract:  Bitemark interpretation assumes that the human dentition is unique and that its attributes can be accurately transferred to skin. A cadaver model was used to investigate whether the correct biter could be determined from similarly aligned dentitions once the dentitions were impressed in human skin. One‐hundred dental stone models, which were measured and determined to be unique, were divided into 10 groups based upon similarities of mal‐alignment patterns. One model was randomly selected from each group and bites were produced on unembalmed human cadavers. Metric/angular measurements and hollow volume overlays of the models were compared with the bites made. The percentage of dentitions from each group as well as the 100 dental model population that could not be excluded as the biter was determined. Results showed difficulty distinguishing the biter from individuals with similarly aligned dentitions and in some cases, an incorrect biter appeared better correlated to the bite.