bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A constructionist learning environment for teachers to model learning designs
Authors: Laurillard D. , Charlton P. , Craft B. , Dimakopoulos D. , Ljubojevic D. , Magoulas G. , Masterman E. , Pujadas R. , Whitley E.A. , Whittlestone K.
Published: November 2011

The use of digital technologies is now widespread and increasing, but is not always optimized for effective learning. Teachers in higher education have little time or support to work on innovation and improvement of their teaching, which often means they simply replicate their current practice in a digital medium. This paper makes the case for a learning design support environment to support and scaffold teachers' engagement with and development of technology‐enhanced learning, based on user requirements and on pedagogic theory. To be able to adopt, adapt, and experiment with learning designs, teachers need a theory‐informed way of representing the critical characteristics of good pedagogy as they discover how to optimize learning technologies. This paper explains the design approach of the Learning Design Support Environment project, and how it aims to support teachers in achieving this goal.
Proteolytic system of plant mitochondria
Authors: Kwasniak Malgorzata , Pogorzelec Lukasz , Migdal Iwona , Smakowska Elwira , Janska Hanna
Published: November 2011

The existence of a proteolytic system which can specifically recognize and cleave proteins in mitochondria is now well established. The components of this system comprise processing peptidases, ATP‐dependent peptidases and oligopeptidases. A short overview of experimentally confirmed proteases mainly from Arabidopsis thaliana is provided. The role of the mitochondrial peptidases in plant growth and development is emphasized. We also discuss the possibility of existence of as yet unidentified plant homologs of yeast mitochondrial ATP‐independent proteases.
Personality traits in bipolar disorder type I: a sib‐pair analysis
Authors: Almeida Karla Mathias , Nery Fabiano G , Moreno Ricardo Alberto , Gorenstein Clarice , Lafer Beny
Published: November 2011

Almeida KM, Nery FG, Moreno RA, Gorenstein C, Lafer B. Personality traits in bipolar disorder type I: a sib‐pair analysis. Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 662–669. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  The aim of this study was to compare temperament and character traits among patients with bipolar disorder (BD), their siblings, and healthy controls (HCs) in order to examine whether personality traits are related to the genetic vulnerability to develop BD.

Methods:  Using the Temperament and Character Inventory, we assessed 204 subjects: 67 euthymic outpatients with bipolar disorder type I, 67 siblings without BD, and 70 HCs.

Results:  Scores on harm avoidance, novelty seeking, and self‐transcendence were significantly higher among patients with BD than among HCs, whereas those on self‐directedness and cooperativeness were significantly lower. Siblings showed higher scores on harm avoidance and lower scores on self‐directedness than did HCs. As some of the siblings presented at least one lifetime psychiatric disorder other than BD (n = 35), we examined the subset of siblings who had no lifetime psychiatric disorder (n = 32). This group showed statistically higher harm avoidance scores than HCs.

Conclusions:  Our results suggest that the harm avoidance temperament trait and, to a lesser extent, the self‐directedness character trait may represent vulnerability factors for BD.
Effect of early and late mobilisation on split skin graft outcome
Authors: Luczak Bernard , Ha Jennifer , Gurfinkel Reuven
Published: November 2011

Background:  There is an increasing trend towards early mobilisation post‐split skin grafting of the lower limbs. This study was performed to determine if early mobilisation impacts negatively on graft healing and patient morbidity.

Methods:  A retrospective review of 48 cases of lower limb split skin grafts performed by the plastic surgery department at Royal Perth Hospital was undertaken. Patients were stratified into early and late mobilisation groups.

Results:  No difference in outcome was identified with early mobilisation, but an increased rate of deconditioning with increased length of stay was present with late mobilisation.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that early mobilisation post‐split skin grafting of the lower limb is beneficial to patient care and is associated with lower morbidity.
Care coordinators: A controlled evaluation of an inpatient mental health service innovation
Authors: Stewart Malcolm W. , Wilson Michael , Bergquist Karla , Thorburn John
Published: November 2011

The study aimed to evaluate the impact of introducing designated care coordinators into an acute mental health inpatient unit in terms of service delivery, clinical outcomes, and service user and significant other perceptions. A pre–post‐controlled design was implemented with a consecutive sample of 292 service users admitted and staying more than 5 days in two wards, with care coordinators introduced in one ward. Data were obtained from clinical records, standard measures, and service user and significant other surveys. Care coordinator input was associated with significant improvements in service delivery and stronger involvement of significant others and community resources. Care‐coordinated clients showed significantly better clinical outcomes, including the Health of Nations Outcome Scales behaviour subscale, less time in the intensive care subunit, less community crisis team input in the week following discharge, and lower rates of readmission in the month following discharge. Care‐coordinated service users and their significant others gave higher ratings of service delivery, outcome, and satisfaction. The results indicate that designated care coordinators significantly improve care processes, outcomes, and service user experience in acute inpatient mental health settings.
Gender‐specific clinicopathological features and survival in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC)
Authors: Lee Sangchul , Jeon Hwang Gyun , Kwak Cheol , Kim Hyeon Hoe , Byun Seok‐Soo , Lee Sang Eun , Lee Eunsik
Published: November 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

There has been some controversy about the gender differences in survival in patients with RCC.

Korean women with RCC had a lower proportion of clear cell histology and a higher proportion of chromophobe histology. This histological difference might have driven the better survival rates in Korean women.

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether there are gender‐specific differences in the clinicopathological features and prognosis in a large cohort of Korean patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) compared with Western patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Medical records of 1616 patients clinically diagnosed with RCC who underwent partial or radical nephrectomy were analysed between January 1988 and July 2009.

In all, 1508 patients diagnosed with RCC based on pathology reports were included for evaluation.

The mean follow‐up period was 73.1 months.

The gender‐specific differences in the clinicopathological features and survival rates were evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

Of the 1508 patients, 439 (29.1%) were women.

Korean men had a higher proportion of clear cell histology (84.3% vs 72.0%, P < 0.001) and a lower percentage of chromophobe histology (5.2% vs 12.5%, P < 0.001) than Korean women.

There were no gender‐specific differences in pathological T stage, positive lymph nodes or distant metastases, or Fuhrman's nuclear grade (P > 0.05).

For both cancer‐specific and overall survival, Kaplan–Meier curves showed that women had a better survival rate than men (P= 0.039 and P= 0.015, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Korean women with RCC had significantly better survival rates than Korean men.

Additionally, Korean women with RCC had a lower proportion of clear cell histology and a higher proportion of chromophobe histology.

This histological difference might have driven the better survival rates in Korean women.
Managing Open Innovation: Exploring Challenges at the Interfaces of an Open Innovation Arena
Authors: Ollila Susanne , Elmquist Maria
Published: November 2011

Collaborating with peers to gain access to knowledge is an attractive alternative for organizations keen to improve their innovativeness, and the rising popularity of open innovation has resulted in the emergence of new actors in the innovation process. Previous research focuses mainly on the firms that collaborate with these actors. This paper adopts the perspective of an open innovation actor and the managerial challenges involved. It is based on a case study of SAFER, a Swedish traffic and vehicle safety research unit with 22 collaborating partners. The unit, which is here called an open innovation arena, differs from an intermediary in that it both enables open innovation within a specific field of expertise and envisages itself as a key player in that same field. The case study reveals three types of challenges for the management of an open innovation arena: challenges that arise at the interface with partner organizations, challenges related to collaboration between the partners, and challenges related to the arena itself.
Protective and restorative effects of a Commiphora mukul gum resin and triheptanoin preparation on the CCL‐110 skin fibroblast cell line
Authors: Ramachandran C. , Quirin K‐W. , Resek A. , Melnick S.J.
Published: November 2011

Synopsis

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a major ingredient in skin care products because of its anti‐wrinkle effects, although it has some side effects especially at higher amounts. In this study, we compare the anti‐wrinkle related properties of CoQ10 and a proprietary Commiphora mukul gum resin (guggul) and triheptanoin preparation (GU‐TC7). GU‐TC7 is prepared with a supercritical CO2‐co‐solvent extraction with ethanol, standardized to 2% guggulsterones and triheptanoin, a triglyceride composed of three 7‐carbon fatty acids. Treatment of CCL‐110 skin fibroblasts with GU‐TC7 demonstrates a mild proliferative effect compared to CoQ10 and increased type I collagen synthesis. Additionally, GU‐TC7 inhibited matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (MMP‐1) expression in a dose‐dependent manner at 20–100 μg mL−1 and inhibited human elastase expression by more than 50% as compared to no elastase inhibition with CoQ10 treatment. These results suggest that GU‐TC7 possesses properties that are applicable to the treatment of wrinkles and may be considered for its further evaluation in skin care products.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms of toll‐like receptor‐4 protect against acne conglobata
Authors: Grech I. , Giatrakou S. , Damoraki G. , Pistiki A. , Kaldrimidis P. , Giamarellos‐Bourboulis E.J. , Stavrianeas N.
Published: November 2011

Background  Former studies have shown that Propionibacterium acnes may stimulate expression of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) in keratinocytes of patients with acne vulgaris.

Objective  To investigate the impact of single nucleotide polumorphisms (SNPs) of the TLR4 gene in acne vulgaris.

Methods  Genomic DNA was isolated from 191 patients with acne vulgaris and 75 healthy controls. Asp299Gly and Thr399Ile SNPs were defined after cutting of the PCR products by restriction enzymes. Sebum of lesions was cultured for P. acnes.

Results  No differences in SNP allele frequencies were found between patients and healthy controls. 46.5% of carriers of wild‐type alleles were suffering from acne conglobata compared with 28.6% of carriers of SNP alleles (P = 0.040). After adjusting for gender, family history of acnes, intake of any therapy and skin isolation of P. acnes, carriage of TLR4 gene SNPs was the only independent variable linked with a protective role against acne conglobata (OR = 0.269, P = 0.014). No differences were found in the amount of pro‐inflammatory cytokines released by peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from patients with acne conglobata carrying only wild‐type alleles and SNP alleles.

Conclusions  Carriage of gene SNPs is protective against the development of acne conglobata even in the presence of P. acnes.
The (non) impact of invasive cane toads on freshwater crocodiles at Lake Argyle in tropical Australia
Authors: Somaweera R. , Shine R.
Published: November 2011

The most substantial (and to date, unexplained) heterogeneity in the impact of toxic cane toads (Rhinella marina) on the native fauna of tropical Australia involves freshwater crocodiles (Crocodylus johnstoni); some populations have experienced catastrophic mortality whereas others have been unaffected. A trend for higher impact in more arid areas suggests that Western Australian (Kimberley region) crocodile populations may be at high risk. We monitored crocodile densities and body sizes, and the spread of cane toads, at a large water body (Lake Argyle) in the eastern Kimberley. Toads arrived on the lakeshore in early 2009, and spread to cover > 300 km of lakeshore, and colonize all of the larger islands within a 24‐month period. Physical removal of > 10 000 toads by a community group depressed toad abundances, but only briefly. Spool‐tracking showed that toads moved extensively along the lakeshore (up to 90 m per night), often into floating vegetation in the lake. Crocodiles thus encountered toads (3–15% of crocodiles were < 2 m from a toad when sighted), and we recorded 36 cases of toads being seized by crocodiles. Nonetheless, crocodile mortality was rare, and crocodile numbers did not decrease through time, nor differ between toad‐infested versus toad‐free areas of the lake. Although ingestion of a single adult toad may be fatal to a freshwater crocodile, and the Lake Argyle crocodiles encounter and consume these toxic anurans, the population‐level impact of toad invasion has been trivial. Hence, the Lake Argyle crocodile population may not warrant immediate active management to reduce the impact of cane toads.
Shrinking sable antelope numbers in Kruger National Park: what is suppressing population recovery?
Authors: Owen‐Smith N. , Chirima G. J. , Macandza V. , Le Roux E.
Published: November 2011

Sable antelope numbers in the Kruger National Park have declined substantially since the mid‐1980s and have shown little recovery despite improved rainfall conditions. We used aerial survey records to investigate how changes in herd numbers, herd sizes, calf proportions and consequent changes in the distribution range of breeding herds contributed to this situation. Both herd sizes and herd numbers decreased in the drier northern half of the park, coupled with low calf proportions, especially during and following a severe drought, while declines in these measures became evident later in the wetter southern half. Herd extirpations led to a 25% contraction in the local distribution range of sable antelope, although some of these herds had only become established during the high rainfall period in the late 1970s. Local population trends were not related to increases in zebra numbers potentially attracting more predators. Compensatory density dependence in the population growth rate was no longer evident after 1986 during the period of the population decline. The population trajectory modelled from rainfall relationships indicated that the depressed population growth rate relative to rainfall apparent after 1986 has persisted, implicating either enduring habitat degradation or continuing high predation pressure. The pattern of the population decline and subsequent lack of recovery raises the possibility that an Allee effect could be operating, mediated through the consequences of reduced herd sizes for exposure to predation. Our findings suggest how delays in responding to declining population numbers could prejudice population recovery well before the overall population size drops to levels threatening population viability.
Common Variants in FTO Are Not Significantly Associated with Obesity‐Related Phenotypes among Samoans of Polynesia
Authors: Karns Rebekah , Viali Satupaitea , Tuitele John , Sun Guangyun , Cheng Hong , Weeks Daniel E. , McGarvey Stephen T. , Deka Ranjan
Published: November 2011

The association between obesity and the fat mass and obesity‐associated (FTO) gene has been widely replicated among Caucasian populations. The limited number of studies assessing its significance in Asian populations has been somewhat conflicting. We performed a genetic association study of 51 tagging, genome‐wide association studies, and imputed single nucleotide polymorphisms with 12 measures of adiposity and skeletal robustness in two Samoan populations of Polynesia. We included 465 and 624 unrelated American Samoan and Samoan individuals, respectively; these populations derive from a single genetic background traced to Southeast Asia and represent one sociocultural unit, although they are economically disparate with distinct environmental exposures. American Samoans were significantly larger than Samoans in all measures of obesity and most measures of skeletal robustness. In separate analyses of American Samoa and Samoa, we found a total of 36 nominal associations between FTO variants and skeletal and obesity measures. The preponderance of these nominal associations (32 of 36) was observed in the Samoan population, and predominantly with skeletal rather than fat mass measures (28 of 36). All significance disappeared, however, following corrections for multiple testing. Based on these findings, it could be surmised that FTO is not likely a major obesity locus in Polynesian populations.
Group cognitive behavior therapy for children with high‐functioning autism spectrum disorders and anxiety: a randomized trial
Authors: Reaven Judy , Blakeley‐Smith Audrey , Culhane‐Shelburne Kathy , Hepburn Susan
Published: November 2011

Background:  Children with high‐functioning autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are at high risk for developing significant anxiety. Anxiety can adversely impact functioning across school, home and community environments. Cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) are frequently used with success for children with anxiety symptoms. Modified CBT interventions for anxiety in children with ASD have also yielded promising results.

Methods:  Fifty children with high‐functioning ASD and anxiety were randomized to group CBT or treatment‐as‐usual (TAU) for 12 weeks. Independent clinical evaluators, blind to condition, completed structured interviews (Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule – Parent Version; ADIS‐P) pre‐ and post‐intervention condition.

Results:  Forty‐seven children completed either the CBT or TAU condition. Results indicated markedly better outcomes for the CBT group. Significant differences by group were noted in Clinician Severity Ratings, diagnostic status, and clinician ratings of global improvement. In the intent‐to‐treat sample, 10 of 20 children (50%) in the CBT group had a clinically meaningful positive treatment response, compared to 2 of 23 children (8.7%) in the TAU group.

Conclusions:  Initial results from this randomized, designed treatment study suggest that a group CBT intervention specifically developed for children with ASD may be effective in decreasing anxiety. Limitations of this study include small sample size, lack of an attention control group, and use of outcome measures normed with typically developing children.
Dorlodotia and related genera (Rugosa) from the Visean (Mississippian; Carboniferous) of Zonguldak and Bartin (North‐Western Turkey)
Authors: DENAYER JULIEN
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  A rich and diverse coral fauna collected from the Livian (Viséan, Mississippian) of Zonguldak and Bartın (North‐western Turkey) contains numerous specimens of Dorlodotia and related forms. The most common species, D. delepineiCharles, 1933, is redetermined as Dorlodotia briarti, an European species. A new species of Dorlodotia is described for very large, phaceloid forms: D. euxinensis. The genus Ceriodotia is created for species close to Dorlodotia with a cerioid habit. It comprises two species: C. bartinensis and C. petalaxoides, both common in the Viséan of Zonguldak and Bartın. Based on comparison of morphological characters and features of the astogeny, a phylogenetic lineage is proposed for Dorlodotia and the new taxa. The evolution of D. euxinensis from D. briarti is peramorphic. Subsequent paedomorphosis resulted in the lineage D. euxinensis–C. bartinensis–C. petalaxoides. Ceriodotia probably includes Viséan taxa from Asia previously described as ‘Acrocyathus’.
Factors Associated With Triptan Use in Episodic Migraine: Results From the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Study
Authors: Chu Min Kyung , Buse Dawn C. , Bigal Marcelo E. , Serrano Daniel , Lipton Richard B.
Published: November 2011

Background.— Though triptans are considered the standard of acute therapy for migraine attacks with headache‐related disability, they are used by the minority of potentially eligible persons. Understanding the socio‐demographic and headache features that predict triptan use may help to clarify barriers to optimal treatment.

Objective.— To assess the sociodemographic and headache features associated with triptan use in a US population sample of persons with episodic migraine.

Methods.— The American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Study (AMPP) is a longitudinal study conducted in a representative sample of US headache sufferers. Episodic migraineurs (n = 11,388) who provided treatment data in 2005 were included in the current analyses. We assessed factors associated with triptan use through univariate and multivariate analyses. Multivariate analyses were adjusted for sociodemographic factors, headache‐related disability, cutaneous allodynia, depression, and preventive headache medication use.

Results.— Among persons with episodic migraine, 18.31% reported current use of triptans for acute headache treatment. In univariate analyses, triptan use was most common in midlife (ages 30‐59), among females, and was more common in Caucasians than in African Americans. Triptan use increased with headache frequency, headache‐related disability and allodynia, but decreased among persons with depression. In multivariate analyses, female gender, Caucasian race, age 40‐49, higher levels of education (college or higher), annual household income of ≥$40,000, having health insurance, the presence of cutaneous allodynia, greater headache‐related disability, and preventive medication use for migraine were significantly associated with triptan use.

Conclusions.— Less than 1 in 5 persons with migraine in the United States who were respondents to this survey used triptans for acute headache treatment over the course of a year. Several markers of severe headache, including disability and allodynia, were associated with increased triptan use. Groups less likely to get triptans included males, African Americans, older adults, and the uninsured. Predictors of use provide insight into groups with unmet treatment needs.
Atrophy of Corrugator Supercilii Muscle in a Patient Induced by the Onabotulinum Toxin Injection
Authors: Zhao Chong‐hao , Stillman Mark
Published: November 2011

Onabotulinum toxin has been used to treat a variety of headaches. We report a case of a 29‐year‐old woman who developed temporary and reversible atrophy of corrugator supercilii muscle after onabotulinum toxin (Botox, Allergan, Irvine, CA, USA) injection. To our best knowledge this has not been described in the literature before.
Low‐Dose Topiramate Plus Sodium Divalproate for Positive Responders Intolerant to Full‐Dose Monotherapy
Authors: Krymchantowski Abouch Valenty , da Cunha Jevoux Carla
Published: November 2011

Background.— Neuromodulators such as topiramate (TPM) and divalproex sodium (DVS) are effective in the preventive treatment of migraine. Nonetheless, patients often discontinue their use due to side effects.

Objectives.— The study aims to determine whether the combination of lower doses of TPM and DVS may be useful for patients responsive to higher doses of the individual drugs but experiencing intolerable side effects.

Methods.— This clinic‐based study was conducted to evaluate a series of patients who experienced at least a 50% reduction in headache frequency after 6 weeks of treatment with either TPM 100 mg/day or DVS 750 mg/day, but suffered intolerable drug‐related side effects. At that point, patients were switched to TPM (50 mg in the morning and 25 mg at night) plus DVS 500 mg/day (single dose) and reevaluated after 6 further weeks.

Results.— Thirty‐eight patients were evaluated. Mean age was 37 years, and 84% were female. Of the 38, 17 (77.3%) initially were using TPM only, and 10 (62.5%) initially were using DVS only. After 6 weeks on combination therapy, 27 (62.9%) reported improved tolerability without any decrease in efficacy. Five patients who initially were using TPM only and six using DVS only failed to return for follow‐up or were noncompliant with treatment due to persistent or worsening side effects.

Conclusions.— This small, open‐label study suggests that the combination of TPM and DVS in doses lower than those typically used for migraine prophylaxis may be an effective option for patients who benefited from higher doses of these same medications used as monotherapy but were unable to tolerate such treatment due to side effects.
Nanotechnology Risk Perceptions and Communication: Emerging Technologies, Emerging Challenges
Authors: Pidgeon Nick , Harthorn Barbara , Satterfield Terre
Published: November 2011

Nanotechnology involves the fabrication, manipulation, and control of materials at the atomic level and may also bring novel uncertainties and risks. Potential parallels with other controversial technologies mean there is a need to develop a comprehensive understanding of processes of public perception of nanotechnology uncertainties, risks, and benefits, alongside related communication issues. Study of perceptions, at so early a stage in the development trajectory of a technology, is probably unique in the risk perception and communication field. As such it also brings new methodological and conceptual challenges. These include: dealing with the inherent diversity of the nanotechnology field itself; the unfamiliar and intangible nature of the concept, with few analogies to anchor mental models or risk perceptions; and the ethical and value questions underlying many nanotechnology debates. Utilizing the lens of social amplification of risk, and drawing upon the various contributions to this special issue of Risk Analysis on Nanotechnology Risk Perceptions and Communication, nanotechnology may at present be an attenuated hazard. The generic idea of “upstream public engagement” for emerging technologies such as nanotechnology is also discussed, alongside its importance for future work with emerging technologies in the risk communication field.
A Robust Vision of Europe
Authors: SCHRÖDER GERHARD
Published: November 2011

The sovereign debt problem in Europe, ignited by Greece, has morphed into an economic crisis challenging the solvency of major banks and countries as well as a generalized crisis of governance. Lacking the legitimacy of public support, the leaders of the European Union's fledgling institutions have been indecisive and unable to contain the looming danger of financial contagion. Along with the economic slowdown in the United States, instability and volatility in Europe threaten to derail the fragile global recovery.

In this section, several former European leaders as well as political figures from the emerging economies offer their ideas on how to fix Europe and stem the global threat.
Reputation and Public Administration
Authors: Carpenter Daniel P. , Krause George A.
Published: November 2011

This article examines the application of organizational reputation to public administration. Organizational reputation is defined as a set of beliefs about an organization’s capacities, intentions, history, and mission that are embedded in a network of multiple audiences. The authors assert that the way in which organizational reputations are formed and subsequently cultivated is fundamental to understanding the role of public administration in a democracy. A review of the basic assumptions and empirical work on organizational reputation in the public sector identifies a series of stylized facts that extends our understanding of the functioning of public agencies. In particular, the authors examine the relationship between organizational reputation and bureaucratic autonomy.
Commentary: Peering Inside the Black Box of Policy Interventions
Authors: Wilcox Brian L. , Deutsch Arielle
Published: November 2011

The New Hope evaluation generated a variety of useful findings that will help guide future iterations of antipoverty policymaking, despite the fact that the intervention was only selectively effective and impacts were generally short lived. The evaluation process itself, however, representing a blend of sound design, mixed methods, and theories drawn from psychological anthropology as well as other disciplines, is likely to significantly shape future large‐scale policy evaluation efforts.
Commentary: Pound Foolish: Lester's Case for Developmentally Appropriate Eating Disorder Treatment
Authors: Celeste Bobbie L.
Published: November 2011

A practicing psychologist, active in public policy work, supports the recommendations made in Lester's article, “How Do I Code for Black Fingernail Polish? Finding the Missing Adolescent in Managed Mental Health Care.” Psychotherapy outcome research is consistent with Lester's premise that managed mental health care policies hinder effective, evidence‐based results. The role of stigma in perpetuating neglect in managed mental health care is also highlighted. Efforts by psychologists to educate policymakers and to become involved in politics are described. Efforts to change insurance policy through collaborative efforts with other social scientists is encouraged.
Y2O3–MgO–ZrO2 Infrared Transparent Ceramic Nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Jiwen , Zhang Lichun , Chen Dianying , Jordan Eric H. , Gell Maurice
Published: November 2011

Increased strength and improved erosion resistance are required for future infrared windows working in harsher mechanical and thermal environments than those used today. In this study, Y2O3–MgO–ZrO2 composite nanopowders were synthesized using a sol–gel combustion process. The fully dense Y2O3–MgO–ZrO2 nanocomposites were prepared by pressureless sintering of the nanopowders at 1400°C for 2 h, followed by hot isostatic pressing at 1350°C for 1 h. The effects of ZrO2 concentration on the microstructure, infrared transmittance, and microhardness of the nanocomposites were studied. It is shown by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) that ZrO2 is selectively soluble in Y2O3 with the concentration up to 13.2 mol%, forming supersaturated solid solution. The microhardness of the Y2O3–MgO–ZrO2 nanocomposites scales linearly with the square root of the ZrO2 concentration (from 10.6 GPa without ZrO2 to 13.5 GPa with 13.2 mol% ZrO2 addition). Good mid‐infrared transmittance (53%–70%) over 3–7 μm wavelength was maintained with ZrO2 concentration up to 8.8 mol%, compared with that of Y2O3–MgO nanocomposites (62%–80%) at the same wavelength range. This work shows ZrO2 solid solution strengthened Y2O3 (ZSSY) nanocomposites for their potential to be used as infrared transparent materials with enhanced mechanical properties.
Ion‐Exchange Protonation and Enhanced Seed Layer Property of Uniaxially Grown RbLaNb2O7 Thin Films on Glass Substrates
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiko , Tsuchiya Tetsuo
Published: November 2011

We demonstrated ion exchange (hydration and dehydration) in the perfect (010)‐oriented growth of Dion–Jacobson perovskite RbLaNb2O7 thin films prepared by ELAMOD. The hydration of the RbLaNb2O7 thin film immediately proceeded in an acid solution at room temperature, and the obtained HLaNb2O7·0.5H2O film was rapidly dehydrated by low‐temperature heating at 250°C. The hydrated HLaNb2O7·0.5H2O and dehydrated HLaNb2O7 films rigidly kept their uniaxial ordering to the substrate normal. Furthermore, their surface roughness decreased by 25% and the X‐ray reflection peak width of their χ profile also decreased by 24% throughout the ion exchange. These improvements in the surface roughness and orientation quality of the seed layer enhanced the orientation growth and conducting property of the LaNiO3 film on the seed layer. The ρ of the LaNiO3 film on the protonated HLaNb2O7 seed layer was 0.79 mΩ·cm, which was 30% lower than that of the film on the original RbLaNb2O7 seed layer. Thus, we confirmed that the ion‐exchange protonation of a RbLaNb2O7 seed layer prepared by ELAMOD is effective in improving seed layer properties.
Dermal uptake study with 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate led to active sensitization
Authors: Hamada Haneen , Isaksson Marléene , Bruze Magnus , Engfeldt Malin , Liljelind Ingrid , Axelsson Sara , Jönsson Bo , Tinnerberg Håkan , Zimerson Erik
Published: November 2011

Background. To investigate the dermal uptake of 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (4,4′‐MDI), a study was performed in which 2 female volunteers were exposed to 10 and 25 mg, respectively, of 4,4′‐MDI by applying 2.0% 4,4′‐MDI in petrolatum over areas where the surface concentration corresponded to 800 µg/cm2. Ten days later, they developed eczematous dermatitis at the area of application.

Objectives. To investigate whether the dermal application caused active sensitization to 4,4′‐MDI.

Methods. Chemical analysis of the 4,4′‐MDI preparation used in the application and the amount of 4,4′‐MDI not absorbed by the skin was performed with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The volunteers were tested with serial dilutions of 4,4′‐MDI and the potentially cross‐reacting substances 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (4,4′‐MDA), p‐phenylenediamine (PPD), and dicyclohexylmethane‐4,4′‐diisocyanate (DMDI).

Results. Patch test results suggested that the volunteers were actively sensitized to 4,4′‐MDI following the dermal uptake study, as they reacted positively to 4,4′‐MDA, a marker for 4,4′‐MDI allergy. No positive reactions were seen to PPD or DMDI. Chemical investigation confirmed that the correct concentration had been used for the dermal uptake study, and showed that about 70% of the applied 4,4′‐MDI was not absorbed.

Conclusions. A dermal uptake study with 4,4′‐MDI in 2.0% pet. with an occlusion time of 8 hr induced active sensitization to 4,4′‐MDI and subsequently to 4,4′‐MDA.
Non‐invasive translational Cynomolgus model for studying folliculogenesis and ovulation using color Doppler ultrasonography
Authors: van Diepen Harry A. , Pansier Jeffrey , Oude Wesselink Paul , van Drie Aric , van Duin Marcel , Mulders Sabine
Published: November 2011

Background  In women, different events of folliculogenesis can be measured and evaluated using ultrasound (US) technology. The availability of a non‐invasive translational non‐human primate model to study these processes would represent a major contribution to further advance R&D efforts toward novel therapies in assisted reproduction.

Methods  In our study, follicular growth and ovulation was measured in six cyclic Cynomolgus monkeys using abdominal Doppler US.

Results  The mean follicular diameter on cycle day −6 (cycle day 0 = day of ovulation) was 3.7 mm that increased to 6.8 mm on cycle day −1. After ovulation, the mean diameter decreased to 4.6 mm, confirming ovulation. The mean percentage of follicular size reduction after ovulation was 31%.

Conclusion  Ultrasonography in combination with color‐flow Doppler imaging was shown to be a useful, non‐invasive translational method to measure ovarian follicular growth and occurrence and timing of follicular rupture in Cynomolgus monkeys.
Photosensitivity induced by naproxen
Authors: Gutiérrez‐González Enrique , Rodríguez‐Pazos Laura , Rodríguez‐Granados Maria Teresa , Toribio Jaime
Published: November 2011

We present two cases of systemic photosensitivity due to naproxen that presented as photodistributed erythema multiforme (EM) and lichenoid photodermatitis (LP). Although naproxen is a commonly used nonsteroidal antinflammatory drug and has the capacity of causing systemic photosensitivity, there are very few reports about it in the literature. The diagnosis was suspected by the recent ingestion of the drug and the photodistribution of the lesions. A positive photopatch test in the first patient and the normalization of the MED‐UVB after discontinuing naproxen in the second patient supported the diagnosis.
An explorative study of non‐invasive ultra‐weak photon emission and the anti‐oxidative influence of oral zinc sulphate in light‐sensitive patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria
Authors: Petersen Anita Birgit , Philipsen Peter Alshede , Wulf Hans Christian
Published: November 2011

Background

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare, inherited disorder of haem biosynthesis owing to deficient ferrochelatase (FECH) and accumulation of protoporphyrin IX (PPIX). This results in acute cutaneous photosensitivity upon light exposure with production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ultra‐weak photon emission (UPE) as a by‐product. We investigated if UPE evaluated the light sensitivity in EPP patients and influence of zinc treatment.

Methods

Fourteen EPP patients took zinc sulphate (3 × 200 mg/day) during spring and summer. Using a photomultiplier (PM), UPE was measured from the buttock skin and dorsal hand before and after solar‐simulated light (SUN) exposure. Blood samples were analysed routinely for plasma zinc, iron, ferritin, transferrin, haemoglobin, erythrocyte PPIX and Zn‐PPIX.

Results

UPE in EPP patients resembled that seen in healthy individuals. Without treatment, a seasonal decrease was seen from spring to summer in four control patients. However, oral zinc treatment reduced ROS formation significantly regardless of SUN exposure. After SUN exposure, the initial burst was correlated to plasma iron and erythrocyte PPIX. During treatment, an inverse correlation was found between plasma zinc concentration and the initial burst.

Conclusion

Measurements of UPE can be used for monitoring UVA‐induced oxidative processes in vivo in the skin of EPP patients.
Biomass accumulation during reed encroachment reduces efficiency of restoration of Baltic coastal grasslands
Authors: Sammul Marek , Kauer Karin , Köster Tiina
Published: November 2011

Question

To what extent is restoration of vegetation in coastal grasslands delayed by accumulation of nutrients after abandonment of traditional management and subsequent reed encroachment? How does nutrient flow in the plant–soil system react to reintroduction of grazing?

Location

Coast of Baltic Sea, western Estonia.

Methods

Abandoned, continuously managed and restored coastal meadows were selected in four different study regions and their vegetation composition sampled. Nitrogen, P, K, Na, Ca and Mg concentrations and C/N ratios were determined in both vegetation and soil. Differences between management groups were evaluated.

Results

Comparison among different management groups revealed several differences in both relative and total amount of nutrients in soil and vegetation. Most soil properties of restored sites were similar to those in abandoned sites. Carbon stock in the soil profile doubled after abandonment, total N concentration in the top soil layer increased while plant available P concentration decreased. The phytomass and chemical composition of phytomass rapidly changed back to a ‘normal’ level after restoration. Species composition remained different, but species typical of coastal grasslands were present in restored sites. There was a strong site specificity in the results.

Conclusions

Re‐establishment of grazing had a rapid impact on plant biomass of coastal grasslands. Species composition responded more slowly, but target species returned relatively quickly. Slow recovery of soil properties, however, means that the results of restoration may be fragile and return of tall‐growth vegetation is very probable if managent intensity declines. Long restoration periods should be planned to reach pre‐abandonment environmental conditions when using non‐destructive restoration methods.
Emerging Contaminants at a Closed and an Operating Landfill in Oklahoma
Authors: Andrews William J. , Masoner Jason R. , Cozzarelli Isabelle M.
Published: November 2011

Landfills are the final depositories for a wide range of solid waste from both residential and commercial sources, and therefore have the potential to produce leachate containing many organic compounds found in consumer products such as pharmaceuticals, plasticizers, disinfectants, cleaning agents, fire retardants, flavorings, and preservatives, known as emerging contaminants (ECs). Landfill leachate was sampled from landfill cells of three different age ranges from two landfills in Central Oklahoma. Samples were collected from an old cell containing solid waste greater than 25 years old, an intermediate age cell with solid waste between 16 and 3 years old, and operating cell with solid waste less than 5 years old to investigate the chemical variability and persistence of selected ECs in landfill leachate of differing age sources. Twenty‐eight of 69 analyzed ECs were detected in one or more samples from the three leachate sources. Detected ECs ranged in concentration from 0.11 to 114 μg/L and included 4 fecal and plant sterols, 13 household\industrial, 7 hydrocarbon, and 4 pesticide compounds. Four ECs were solely detected in the oldest leachate sample, two ECs were solely detected in the intermediate leachate sample, and no ECs were solely detected in the youngest leachate sample. Eleven ECs were commonly detected in all three leachate samples and are an indication of the contents of solid waste deposited over several decades and the relative resistance of some ECs to natural attenuation processes in and near landfills.
Emerging narrative discourse skills 18 months after traumatic brain injury in early childhood
Authors: Walz Nicolay Chertkoff , Yeates Keith Owen , Taylor H. Gerry , Stancin Terry , Wade Shari L.
Published: November 2011

This study examined the longer term effect of traumatic brain injury (TBI), approximately 18 months post‐injury, on emerging narrative discourse skills of 85 children with orthopaedic injury (OI), 43 children with moderate TBI, and 19 children with severe TBI who were between 3 years and 6 years 11 months at injury. Children with TBI performed worse than children with OI on most discourse indices. Children with severe TBI were less proficient than children with moderate TBI at identifying unimportant story information. Age and pragmatic skills were predictors of discourse performance.
Re‐examining Test Item Issues in the TIMSS Mathematics and Science Assessments
Authors: Wang Jianjun
Published: November 2011

As the largest international study ever taken in history, the Trend in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) has been held as a benchmark to measure U.S. student performance in the global context. In‐depth analyses of the TIMSS project are conducted in this study to examine key issues of the comparative investigation: (1) item flaws in mathematics and science; (2) inability to reflect item score differences between adjacent grades; (3) ambiguity of the test items behind nonrandom guessing; and (4) unfair comparisons resulted from inconsistent item difficulties across the nations. The TIMSS item checking could help education stakeholders understand more profound assessment issues through the information triangulation.
Efficacy of human chorionic gonadotropin to induce ovulation in the mare, when associated with a single dose of dexamethasone administered at breeding time
Authors: BUCCA S. , CARLI A.
Published: November 2011

Reasons for performing study: Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and dexamethasone have a role in the reproductive management protocols of mares susceptible to persistent mating‐induced endometritis (PMIE). However, it is possible that there is interference between these 2 drugs.

Objectives: The objective of this retrospective study was to determine the efficacy of hCG to induce ovulation in mares treated with dexamethasone at breeding time.

Methods: Medical records from 152 mares and 223 cycles were analysed. In 113 cycles, mares susceptible to PMIE were treated with 1500 iu hCG and a single dose of 50 mg dexamethasone, 110 cycles were used as controls and subsequent ovulation was assessed ultrasonographically and compared.

Results: Dexamethasone did not inhibit ovulation in mares susceptible to PMIE.

Conclusions and potential relevance: Multiple administrations of dexamethasone to mares in early oestrus have induced ovulation failure. However, a single dose of dexamethasone, administered at breeding time, has been used as an effective modulator of PMIE in susceptible mares and does not interfere with efficacy of hCG to induce ovulation.
Sporting activity following colic surgery in horses: A retrospective study
Authors: CHRISTOPHERSEN M. T. , TNIBAR A. , PIHL T. H. , ANDERSEN P. H. , EKSTRØM C. T.
Published: November 2011

Reasons for performing study: There is a paucity of studies addressing sporting activity and horse owners' satisfaction after horses have undergone colic surgery.

Objectives: To determine 1) survival rate after colic surgery, 2) prevalence of horses returning to, or starting, sporting activities and 3) assess the owners' satisfaction regarding colic surgery.

Methods: Cases that underwent exploratory celiotomy for colic between January 2005 and August 2010 were reviewed. All horses that had one or more celiotomies and were discharged after colic surgery were included in a telephone questionnaire survey. Only horses that survived at least 6 months after colic surgery were included in the sporting activity analysis. Data extracted from the records included case details, intra‐operative diagnosis and surgical treatment. Information from a telephone questionnaire included the horses' post surgical details (horse alive or subjected to euthanasia, post operative complications, pre‐ and post surgical use, return to sporting activity, sporting performance, behavioural changes, management changes and recommendation by owner for colic surgery). A logistic regression model was used for the statistical analysis of post hospitalisation performance and an ordinal regression model used for analysis of post colic complications and of owner's recommendation of surgery. A Kaplan‐Meier survival curve was computed to show survival of horses discharged after colic surgery.

Results: The survival rates (%) at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months were 95.3, 86.6, 80.9, 76.9, 62.1 and 57.6, respectively. A large majority of horses (86.1%) resumed or started sporting activities after colic surgery. The proportion of horses that the owners believed to achieve the same or better performance after surgery was 83.5%. In 89.9% of the cases, owners stated that they would recommend colic surgery.

Conclusions: Horses discharged after colic surgery had a high long‐term survival rate. A high prevalence of horses resumed or started sporting activities with a high proportion of horses at their presurgical performance level. The large majority of owners of discharged horses were satisfied with colic surgery performed on their horses.