bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic instability of seasonally thawing silty soils
Authors: Voznesensky Eugene A. , Kalachev Vladimir Y. , Trofimov Victor T. , Kostomarova Victoria V.
Published: November 2008

The peculiarities of the dynamic behaviour of silty soils in laboratory experiments that simulate their interaction with gas mining equipment are analyzed. These seasonally thawing soils appear to be very sensitive to dynamic loading and sometimes even liquefaction. Several peculiarities of their dynamic behaviour include: (i) their special sensitivity to very definite and narrow vibration frequency ranges, which vary with grain size and moisture content, and result from the resonant effects in the soil; (ii) the redistribution of pore water during the vibration and subsequent regain; (iii) the thixotropic recovery of the soil after vibration, resulting in the regain of its strength over initial levels, water content and density being constant. Both dilatant and thixotropic effects take place in such soils during dynamic loading, distinguishing them from both clean sands and clayey soils. On the basis of the peculiarities of dynamic behaviour discussed, the authors consider such soils as dilatantly thixotropic dispersed systems. Key words : dynamic properties, soils, thixotropy, liquefaction, resonance, silts.
Identification of immunoreactive extracellular proteins of Streptococcus agalactiae in bovine mastitis
Authors: Trigo Gabriela , Ferreira Paula , Ribeiro Niza , Dinis Márcia , Andrade Elva Bonifácio , Melo-Cristino José , Ramirez Mário , Tavares Delfina
Published: November 2008

Streptococcus agalactiae is a common pathogen that causes bovine mastitis. The aims of this study were to evaluate the antibody response against S. agalactiae extracellular proteins in the whey and serum of naturally infected bovines and to identify possible immunodominant extracellular antigens. IgG1antibodies against S. agalactiae extracellular proteins were elevated in the whey and serum of naturally infected bovines. In the whey, the levels of IgG1specific for S. agalactiae extracellular proteins were similar in infected and noninfected milk quarters from the same cow, and the production of antibodies specific for S. agalactiae extracellular proteins was induced only by infection with this bacterium. The immunoreactivity of extracellular proteins with bovine whey was clearly different in infected versus control animals. Group B protective surface protein and 5′-nucleotidase family protein were 2 major immunoreactive proteins that were detected only in the whey of infected cows, suggesting that these proteins may be important in the pathogenesis of S. agalactiae-induced mastitis. This information could be used to diagnose S. agalactiae infection. In addition, these antigens may be useful as carrier proteins for serotype-specific polysaccharides in conjugate vaccines.
Phylloepiphytic interaction between bacteria and different plant species in a tropical agricultural system
Authors: Baldotto Lílian Estrela Borges , Olivares Fábio Lopes
Published: November 2008

Plant surfaces are a favourable niche for bacterial establishment, and hypothetically, plant species differ in their capacity to harbour epiphytic bacterial communities. This study was conducted to evaluate and describe the structural relationship of a bacterial community at the phyllosphere level with different plant species in a tropical ecosystem. Leaf blades of 47 plant species distributed in 27 botanical families were collected on a typical small Brazilian farm and prepared for observation under light and scanning electron microscopy. Naturally occurring bacteria were the most abundant settlers of the phylloplane, followed by fungal spore or hyphae. All plant species studied were colonized by phylloepiphytic bacteria, which were observed as solitary cells, microcolonies, and biofilms. However, independent of the family, the plant species differed in the pattern of phyllosphere colonization, as reflected in bacteria frequency and presence or absence of anatomical features that would favour the association. The phylloepiphytic bacteria were preferentially established on the following sites: epidermal cell wall junctions, glandular and nonglandular trichomes, veins, stomata, and epidermal cell wall surface. Profuse bacteria and fungi colonization was observed, at a level that was at least comparable with temperate regions. Interestingly, fungi seemed to alter the bacteria colonization pattern, most probably by microenvironmental modifications. The trichome type and density as well as the presence of epicuticular wax on the leaf blade surface seemed to be the most determinant anatomical features for the pattern of phyllosphere colonization. The presence of trichomes has a favourable, and epicuticular wax an unfavourable influence on the plant–bacteria interaction.
Embryonic motility and hatching success of Ambystoma maculatum are influenced by a symbiotic alga
Authors: Tattersall Glenn J. , Spiegelaar Nicole
Published: November 2008

To augment O2supply through the jelly mass and egg capsule, embryonic yellow-spotted salamanders ( Ambystoma maculatum (Shaw, 1802)) take advantage of a unicellular alga, Oophila ambystomatis . Convective currents from surface cilia, however, may also enhance O2transport, whereas muscular contractions could either enhance delivery or contribute to O2consumption. Embryonic motion is, therefore, potentially vital to salamander development. We examined embryonic motility across multiple developmental stages, survivorship, and hatching timing in response to different algal levels by rearing salamander egg masses under three different diel light cycles: 24 h dark, 12 h light, and 24 h light per day. Embryos raised in continuous light hatched synchronously and at slightly earlier developmental stages than embryos raised in the dark or in 12 h light per day. We removed eggs at multiple stages to examine embryonic rotation and muscular contraction rates under 180 min periods of both light and dark. Rotational movements occurred more frequently in alga-free than in algae-inhabited eggs, and more frequently in algae-inhabited eggs in the dark than in light. At later developmental stages, muscular contractions were more frequent in embryos from algae-inhabited egg masses in light than those in the dark; thus embryos with less O2reduced muscular activity, thereby reducing energy consumption when O2availability was compromised.
HERDING EFFECT FOR THE EVOLUTION OF COOPERATION IN THE SNOWDRIFT GAME
Authors: QIU T. , FU C. F. , CHEN G.
Published: November 2008

We study the herding mechanism for the evolution of cooperation in the snowdrift game. By controlling the herding parameter a, which measures the herding behavior of players, we investigate the cooperative frequency fc on the payoff r. It is found that, for a small a, large clusters are formed and the system shows an intermediate level cooperation up to a big payoff r. However, as a increases, clusters become smaller, and cooperation decreases faster. When a is large, up to a critical value of about a* = 0.5, most players stay alone, each as a separate cluster, and no cooperation occurs. This phenomenon indicates that an individual favors defection, while group selection favors cooperation.
The relative lengthening of the myotendinous structures in the medial gastrocnemius during passive stretching differs among individuals
Authors: Abellaneda Séverine , Guissard Nathalie , Duchateau Jacques
Published: November 2008

The increase in passive torque during muscle stretching may constrain the range of motion of a joint. As passive torque can vary substantially among individuals, the present study examined whether the relative lengthening of the myotendinous structures of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) during passive stretching differs among individuals. Sixteen subjects performed passive stretching of the plantar flexor muscles from ankle angles ranging from 10° plantar flexion (−10°) to 30° dorsiflexion (+30°). Changes in passive torque, muscle architecture (fascicle length and pennation angle) of the MG and electromyographic activity of MG and soleus were recorded. The results showed that passive torque produced by the plantar flexors increased exponentially ( r2= 0.99; P < 0.001) with ankle dorsiflexion, whereas MG fascicle length increased linearly from 57.6 ± 9.1 to 80.5 ± 10.3 mm ( P < 0.001), and pennation angle decreased linearly from 21.2 ± 4.2 to 14.4 ± 3.1° ( P < 0.001) when the ankle joint angle was moved from −10° to +30°. The relative contribution of muscle (fascicles and aponeuroses) and tendon elongation to the change in length of the muscle-tendon unit (MTU) at 30° dorsiflexion was 71.8 and 28.2%, respectively. However, the adjustment differed across individuals during MTU lengthening; in subjects (62.5%) with small, passive stiffness, the elongation of the free tendon was less and that of the fascicles larger than for subjects (37.5%) with greater stiffness. In conclusion, the results indicate that the strain of muscle and tendon varies among individuals, and difference in the relative compliance of these structures influences MTU lengthening differently during passive stretching.
Acoustically Evoked Immediate Early Gene Expression in the Pallium of Female Túngara Frogs
Authors: Mangiamele Lisa A. , Burmeister Sabrina S.
Published: November 2008

In anurans, much is known about the role of the auditory midbrain in processing conspecific calls, but comparatively little is known about the role of the pallium. To address this deficiency, we investigated the induction of the immediate early gene egr-1 by natural mate chorus in the medial, dorsal, lateral, and ventral pallium of female túngara frogs. We found strong acoustically evoked egr-1 expression in the dorsal medial pallium (p < 0.01) and ventral pallium (p = 0.02), with a weaker effect in the lateral pallium (p = 0.05). In the ventral pallium, acoustically induced egr-1 expression was stronger in the anterior portion. Measures of movement and olfactory activity could not explain a significant portion of acoustically evoked pallial egr-1 expression. In contrast, egr-1 expression in the auditory midbrain covaried with egr-1 expression in the dorsal medial pallium and ventral pallium, suggesting that their activity was coupled with auditory activity. Taken together, these results suggest that the acoustically evoked egr-1 expression in the dorsal medial pallium and ventral pallium were a direct result of auditory stimulation. Furthermore, although both anatomical and electrophysiological evidence demonstrate that multiple modalities overlap in the frog pallium, our results show that a multimodal stimulus is not required to activate pallial neurons. Although the functional role of the frog pallium is not known, our results demonstrate that species-specific sounds activate spatially segregated and anatomically distinct areas of the frog pallium, inviting further investigation into the role of the frog pallium in acoustic communication.
Endothelial Lipase Promotes Apolipoprotein AI-Mediated Cholesterol Efflux in THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Qiu Guosong , Hill John S.
Published: November 2008

Objective—

Endothelial lipase (EL) is expressed by macrophages within atherosclerotic lesions. We investigated the influence of EL expression on cholesterol efflux in macrophages.

Methods and Results—

The present study used lentivirus to introduce either EL shRNA for loss-of-function studies or EL cDNA for gain-of-function studies to investigate the role of EL in apoAI-mediated cholesterol efflux. ApoAI-mediated cholesterol efflux was decreased after EL suppression, but increased with EL overexpression in free cholesterol labeled and acLDL loaded THP-1 macrophages. Similar findings were observed in THP-1 macrophages after exogenous EL addition and in transfected 293 cells. EL-related apoAI-mediated cholesterol efflux decreased after treatment with heparin or catalytic inactivation (S149A mutation or tetrahydrolipstatin) alone, and completely inhibited in combination. Furthermore, EL expression did not change ABCA1 expression, but was positively correlated with apoAI binding to macrophages and 293 cells. This effect was mitigated after heparin treatment but not influenced by catalytic inactivation via tetrahydrolipstatin or the S149A mutation. Moreover, EL expression was positively associated with lysophosphatidylcholine production and inversely with phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and sphingomyelin levels. Lysophosphatidylcholine treatment dose-dependently stimulated apoAI-mediated cholesterol efflux in THP-1 macrophages.

Conclusion—

EL appears to promote apoAI-mediated cholesterol efflux through catalytic and noncatalytic-dependent mechanisms.
Intracranial Aneurysms Coiling With Matrix
Authors: Piotin Michel , Spelle Laurent , Mounayer Charbel , Loureiros Carolina , Ghorbani Askar , Moret Jacques
Published: November 2008

Background and Purpose—

We report our experience using Matrix coils in coiling of cerebral aneurysms.

Methods—

Clinical and angiographic outcomes of 152 patients (165 aneurysms) treated exclusively with Matrix coils were retrospectively analyzed.

Results—

There were 74 ruptured aneurysms (44.8%) and 91 unruptured (55.2%). After coiling, 84 (50.9%) aneurysms were occluded, 38 (23.0%) aneurysms had a neck remnant, and 43 (26.1%) aneurysms had a sac remnant. Packing ranged from 10% to 49% (mean and median, 27%). Overall treatment-induced morbidity was 6.6% and mortality was 1.3% (10 of 152 to 2 of 152, respectively). One hundred fifteen (69.7%) aneurysms were followed, disclosing 42 (36.5%) recurrences at a mean period of 9 months (median, 6 months; range, 1 to 28 months). The recurrence rate for small aneurysms (<10 mm) was 28 (31.1%) of 90, whereas for larger aneurysms (≥10 mm), the recurrence rate was 14 (56.0%) of 25 (
P
=0.0336). When packing was ≤25%, the recurrence rate was 44.4%, whereas for aneurysms with packing >25%, the recurrence rate was 29.8% (
P
=0.1588). Recurrence rate was not correlated to packing. Ruptured aneurysms recurred more frequently than unruptured aneurysms (
P
=0.0004).

Conclusion—

Matrix coils provided no better recanalization rates than those reported previously for bare platinum coils.
Frequency and Clinical Course of Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack Patients With Intracranial Nonocclusive Thrombus on Computed Tomographic Angiography
Authors: Puetz Volker , Dzialowski Imanuel , Coutts Shelagh B. , Hill Michael D. , Krol Andrea , O'Reilly Christine , Goyal Mayank , Demchuk Andrew M.
Published: November 2008

Background and Purpose—

We sought to determine the frequency and clinical course of patients with acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) who had intracranial nonocclusive thrombus (iNOT) on CT angiography (CTA).

Methods—

We retrospectively (June 2002–March 2007) reviewed consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke or TIA who had CTA performed acutely for diagnostic work-up. A neuroradiologist reviewed all cases with potential iNOT. Criteria to diagnose iNOT rather than occlusive thrombus or atherosclerotic stenosis were: (1) residual lumen present and eccentric; (2) nontapering thrombus; (3) smooth and well-defined thrombus margins; and (4) absence of vessel wall calcification. We defined functional independence at discharge as modified Rankin scale score ≤2.

Results—

Of 865 patients, 23 (2.7%) exhibited iNOT on CTA (43% women, mean age 69±14 years, median National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score 3 [range, 0–23]; median onset-to-CTA time 3.5 hours [range, 0.9–75]). Four patients (17%) deteriorated clinically during the hospital course and had persistent new focal neurological deficits. All of them were functionally dependent at discharge. All 19 patients (83%) without persistent clinical deterioration (2 patients had recurrent TIAs) were functionally independent at discharge.

Conclusion—

Intracranial nonocclusive thrombus on CTA is relatively uncommon. The majority of patients have a good clinical outcome. However, some patients deteriorate clinically and are functionally dependent at discharge.
Structure in the Dimension of Liveness and Mediation
Authors: Morris Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2008

While technological developments can replace some aspects of live performance, they have also opened a new dimension of musical structure: that of liveness and mediation, which requires live performance in order to be meaningful. Liveness itself can be used and manipulated as a distinct musical element. The author describes these concepts at work in his compositions that explore mediatization as a device of intermedial imitative counterpoint and formal structure.
Public Diplomacy in Confl ict Zones:Military Information Operations Meet Political Counter-Insurgency
Authors: Potter Evan , Copeland Daryl
Published: November 2008

The case made in this article is threefold: that the resolution of conflicts in the twenty-first century will depend much more on the judicious use of soft rather than hard power; that the type of soft power exercised through public diplomacy will move increasingly from monologue to dialogue and collaboration; and that there is an increasing convergence of thinking both in defence departments and foreign ministries on the role of public diplomacy in resolving conflict in asymmetrical warfare. That convergence is expressed in this article's characterization of the 'guerrilla diplomat'.
Isolated vertebral fractures give elevated serum protein S-100B levels
Authors: Benneker Lorin M , Leitner Christoph , Martinolli Luca , Robert Kretschmer , Zimmermann Heinz , Exadaktylos Aristomenis K
Published: November 2008

Background

Serum protein S-100B determinations have been widely proposed in the past as markers of traumatic brain injury and used as a predictor of injury severity and outcome. The purpose of this prospective observational case series was therefore to determine S-100B serum levels in patients with isolated injuries to the back.

Methods

Between 1 February and 1 May 2008, serum samples for S-100B analysis were obtained within 1 hour of injury from 285 trauma patients. All patients with a head injury, polytrauma, and intoxicated patients were excluded to select isolated injuries to the spine. 19 patients with isolated injury of the back were included. Serum samples for S-100B analysis and CT spine were obtained within 1 hours of injury.

Results

CT scans showed vertebral fractures in 12 of the 19 patients (63%). All patients with fractures had elevated S-100B levels. Amongst the remaining 7 patients without a fracture, only one patient with a severe spinal contusion had an S-100B concentration above the reference limit. The mean S-100B value of the group with fractures was more than 4 times higher than in the group without fractures (0.385 vs 0.087 μg/L, p = 0.0097).

Conclusion

Our data, although limited due to a very small sample size, suggest that S-100B serum levels might be useful for the diagnosis of acute vertebral body and spinal cord injury with a high negative predictive power. According to the literature, the highest levels of serum S-100B are found when large bones are fractured. If a large prospective study confirms our findings, determining the S-100B level may contribute to more selective use of CT and MRI in spinal trauma.
The Multidimensional Structure of External Barriers to Substance Abuse Treatment and its Invariance across Gender, Ethnicity, and Age
Authors: Xu Jiangmin , Rapp Richard C. , Wang Jichuan , Carlson Robert G.
Published: November 2008

The goal of the present study was to identify the multidimensional factor structure of external barriers to substance abuse treatment and test its invariance across gender, ethnic, and age groups in a sample of 518 substance abusers assessed at a centralized intake unit. Exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) demonstrated a well-defined multidimensional factor structure of highly differentiated external barrier factors: time conflict, treatment accessibility, treatment entry difficulty, and financial problems. Furthermore, multi-group CFA tests were used to test equivalencies of the measurement and structural models. The statistical fit results supported the invariance of the ethnic groups. Although there were some gender and age differences in measurement and structural relations among the external barrier facets, the model fit indices results provided support for the invariance of both measurement and structural models. The findings suggest that it would be reasonable to consider the pattern of factor loadings and structure relations as invariant across gender, ethnic, and age groups.
MALDI-TOF MS Genotyping of Polymorphisms Related to 1-Carbon Metabolism Using Common and Mass-Modified Terminators
Authors: Meyer Klaus , Fredriksen Åse , Ueland Per Magne
Published: November 2008

Background: Large cohort studies may provide sufficient power to disentangle the role of polymorphisms related to 1-carbon metabolism and chronic diseases, but they require fast, accurate, high-throughput genotyping techniques. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry has been adapted to rapid fine mapping using various approaches for allele discrimination. We developed a genotyping method based on MALDI-TOF MS and compared assay performance for formats based on standard and mass-modified terminators.

Methods: The assay includes 20 polymorphisms of 14 genes involved in 1-carbon metabolism (BHMT 742G>A, CBS 844ins68 and 699C>T, CTH 1364G>T, DHFR del19, NOS3 –786T>C and 894G>T, FOLR1 1314G>A, MTHFD1 –105T>C and 1958G>A, MTHFR 677C>T and 1298A>C, MTR 2756A>G, MTRR 66A>G and 524C>T, SLC19A1 80G>A, SHMT1 1420C>T, TCN2 67A>G and 776C>G, and TYMS 1494del6).

Results: Missing calls were observed for 4.7% of the DNA samples, attributed to failed liquid sample handling. Highly accurate genotyping was obtained by mass-modified as well as standard ddNTPs, with an average error rate of ≤0.1% by analysis of sample duplicates. A semiquantitative approach enabled unambiguous identification of the CBS 844ins68. Cluster plots of the relative allele intensities showed allele-specific bias according to type of minisequencing terminator and revealed a potential structural variation in the BHMT gene.

Conclusions: MALDI-TOF MS–based genotyping using either standard or mass-modified terminators allows the accurate determination of single nucleotides as well as structural genetic variants. This was demonstrated with 20 polymorphisms involved in 1-carbon metabolism.
Translation and semiotic phenomenology: The case for Gilles Deleuze
Authors: Kozin Alexander
Published: November 2008

In this article I draw attention to semiotic phenomenology as a method to advance translation studies. I recover this method first in the works of Ferdinand de Saussure and Edmund Husserl and then present it in two theories of translation: by linguist Roman Jakobson and by philosopher Jacques Derrida. These theories are examined to assert that Jakobson and Derrida share the semiotic phenomenological focus and thus should be considered co-contributors to the semiotic phenomenological method. I also show this method at work in some of the writings by Gilles Deleuze, who makes an explicit contribution to translation theory with his concepts of ‘faciality’, ‘simulacrum’, and ‘transsemiotics’ as well as his insistence on the pragmatic aspect of translation. The latter perspective is considered to be particularly fruitful for those studies of translation that presume its significance at different levels of sociality.
Explicitness in translation and interpreting: A critical review and some empirical evidence (of an elusive concept)
Authors: Baumgarten Nicole , Meyer Bernd , Özçetin Demet
Published: November 2008

In this paper, we will try to grasp the elusive and controversial concept of explicitness which has been considered from different perspectives in linguistics and will take a special look at different approaches in translation and interpretation studies. Thereby, the often postulated assumption that explicitness is a universal feature appearing in all kinds and all instances of language mediation will be questioned. We will show that explicitness does not result from the translation or interpreting process per se but that other factors (also) need to be taken into account, especially conventional differences between the languages involved and the different interpreting strategies of the interpreters. Our investigation is based on data from a parallel corpus of German-English popular science texts and a corpus of interpreter-mediated discourse in a conference setting.
Do Patients Die from Rashes from Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors? A Systematic Review to Help Counsel Patients About Holding Therapy
Authors: Jatoi Aminah , Nguyen Phuong L.
Published: November 2008

Rash from epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors is common and negatively impacts the quality of life of cancer patients. Published guidelines recommend holding cancer therapy if the rash is severe. Does this recommendation hinge solely on improving patients' quality of life, or does it also hinge on the prevention of a potentially fatal, cutaneous adverse event? In other words, do patients die from rashes from epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors? To our knowledge, the latter question has never before been asked and answered in an evidence-based fashion. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of the published, prospectively conducted clinical trial literature on epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors. The primary aim was to determine whether rash-related death has ever been reported in such trials. Among 117 such trials, which included 8,998 cancer patients, the rate of rash development was >50%, as expected. However, there were no reported deaths from a rash. Although we cannot conclude that a rash-related death from this class of agents can never occur, this systematic review provides evidence-based guidance on how best to counsel cancer patients who develop a rash from an epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor. It suggests that quality of life issues should remain at the forefront as cancer patients and health care providers make decisions about holding cancer therapy.
Modelling enteric bacteria level in coastal and estuarine waters
Authors: Yang L. , Lin B. , Falconer R. A.
Published: November 2008

Details are given in this paper of the development of a numerical model for describing the bacterial transport processes in estuarine and coastal waters. The transport of enteric bacteria is influenced by many physical, chemical and biological factors, including both the suspended and bed sediments. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have shown that generally the sediments contain much higher bacterial population levels than previously assumed. The aim of this study has been to develop a numerical modelling tool for predicting the sediment-linked bacterial concentration levels in coastal and estuarine waters. This paper outlines the theoretical background of an enteric bacterial water quality numerical model. A conceptual model has been established for representing the transport of bacteria due to sediment movement, including deposition and suspension. Details are given of the solute and mass transport equations used to simulate the flow and transport of suspended sediments and enteric bacterial indicators. The enteric bacteria transport equation includes enhanced source and sink terms to represent bacterial kinetic transformation and disappearance or reappearance due to sediment deposition or resuspension. The model has been applied to the turbid water environment in the Bristol Channel and Severn estuary, UK, with initial results from the modelling study being presented.
Cardiff Bay barrage: management of groundwater issues
Authors: Williams B.
Published: November 2008

The Cardiff Bay barrage, a 1·1 km long structure across the mouth of Cardiff Bay impounding a 200 ha freshwater lake, was central to the UK government's urban development programme to regenerate the docklands area of Cardiff. The Cardiff Bay Barrage Act 1993 included a groundwater protection scheme for buildings, providing owner/occupiers with recourse to remedial works or compensation should circumstances prove that construction of the barrage caused or probably caused groundwater damage. To allow a comparison of pre- and post-impoundment groundwater levels underlying south Cardiff, a groundwater monitoring system comprising 236 automated data loggers covering an urban area of 15 km2 was established between 1995 and 1999. To mitigate the possibility of a rise in groundwater levels in certain identified areas, various types of groundwater control systems were installed prior to impoundment in November 1999. Management (including collection and interpretation of data) and maintenance of such an extensive system have required great effort, resourcefulness and logistics. This paper presents a brief history of the scheme and an overview of the management of such a diverse and challenging groundwater project.
Monitored natural attenuation of organic contaminants in groundwater: principles and application
Authors: Rivett M. O. , Thornton S. F.
Published: November 2008

This paper reviews the conceptual and technical basis underpinning the use of monitored natural attenuation (MNA) for the management of organic contaminants in groundwater. MNA has important advantages over engineered remediation technologies for groundwater. Its significance will increase across the international community generally and its application for the management of petroleum hydrocarbons and other aromatic compounds will expand. Its application to other contaminants such as chlorinated solvents requires further qualification, although it has demonstrable potential for these. Long-term dissolution of non-aqueous-phase liquid (NAPL) sources is a major issue affecting remediation time-frames for MNA. Source zone remediation in conjunction with MNA will be required for many contaminated sites to meet typical regulatory time-frames permitted for MNA application. Internationally, there is general consensus in the scientific basis and assessment methods included in the technical guidance or protocols supporting the application of MNA. It is not a ’do-nothing’ remediation strategy, but requires site-specific characterisation, scientifically based analysis and a long-term commitment to monitoring, data collection and rigorous technical evaluation for ongoing performance assessment. Additional remediation technologies may be required to support MNA during the remediation programme and the decision to implement MNA should consider the large body of MNA literature that now exists and is summarised here.
pH-cycling Model to Verify the Efficacy of Fluoride-releasing Materials in Enamel Demineralization
Authors: Rodrigues E. , Delbem A. C. B. , Pedrini D. , Oliveira M. S. R.
Published: November 2008

Clinical Relevance

Due to the commercial availability of many fluoride-releasing materials, it is necessary to develop methods to analyze their cariostatic action, mainly as a per dose of fluoride for effect of response.
Psychological Effects of Unemployment: A Consideration of Some Alternative Explanations
Authors: Kabanoff Boris
Published: November 2008

This review of psychological research into unemployment (concentrating on young adults) contrasts two different hypotheses about the possible processes by which unemployment may affect such variables as self esteem and locus of control. The first hypothesis, identified as the skill utilization hypothesis, emphasises the contribution of work to the development of a stable self concept and internality in young persons. Thus the emphasis is on the developmental function of work rather than on the effects of unemployment and the suggestion is that the essential requirement for coping with unemployment is the provision of ‘growth promoting’ skill utilising opportunities. The alternative, social rules hypothesis, on the other hand, identifies the lack of fit between people's values and expectations and their unemployed situation as the cause of social disorientation, and psychological impact. The role of social support as a coping mechanism is considered and it is suggested that these two hypotheses may have complementary implications for coping with unemployment. It is recommended also that research in this area examine the ways in which the unemployed role interacts with other life roles in peer, family, leisure and citizen settings rather than treating unemployment in isolation.
At the Periphery
Authors: Bailey Marjorie , Brodaty Henry
Published: November 2008

What is life like for the many psychiatric patients discharged from hospital to boarding houses?? The ‘mother’ of a Sydney boarding house describes how her ‘family’ has taken root, grown, developed and made a stable home. Many behaviours not tolerated in the community (e.g. public masturbation) are acceptable in the home but there are limits and rules (e.g. not in the dining room). A good home needs the responsible person to be open, honest, understanding and sensitive to changes in guests. Psychiatric services and welfare agencies need to recognise the major contributions of well-run boarding houses and need to liaise more with the proprietors.
Which Version of the General Health Questionnaire Should be Used in Community Studies?
Authors: Burvill P. W. , Knuiman M. W.
Published: November 2008

Literature pertinent to the use of the various versions of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) is briefly surveyed. The literature indicates that the 60-item version has the highest reliability and validity coefficients, the lowest misclassification rate, and the highest sensitivity and specificity. Using data from a previously published community survey in Perth using the 60-item GHQ, comparisons are made between use of the 60-, 30-, 20- and 12-item versions, including community prevalence rates, simultaneous identification of cases, disagreement rates and patterns of community rates with age. The 60-item version gives the lowest prevalence rates. It is argued that the 60-item GHQ is probably the best as it gives the lowest misclassification rates, the smallest standard error of estimated prevalence rates and allows measurement of certain subscales not contained within the shorter versions.
Individual Psychotherapy and Schizophrenia
Authors: Carr Vaughan , Burnett Peter
Published: November 2008

Conceptual issues in approaching the role of psychotherapy in the treatment of schizophrenic patients are discussed in the context of trainee supervision. Eight important variables which require consideration in conducting and evaluating the psychotherapy of these patients are elucidated. It is suggested that psychotherapy variables are conceptually distinct from those which belong to the frame of reference of the disease model or syndrome diagnosis, and thus demand separate attention.
Bromo-DMA: The Australasian Hallucinogen?
Authors: Buhrich Neil , Morris Gary , Cook Graham
Published: November 2008

If the frequency of seizures by police of hallucinogens reflects the frequency with which various hallucinogens are ingested in Australasia, most toxic states resulting from hallucinogen abuse are due to Bromo-DMA and not to LSD as is commonly reported by the subjects. Two cases of intoxication with the new hallucinogen, Bromo-DMA, are reported. Both recovered within 24 hours following treatment with haloperidol.
A Survey of Child Psychiatry Outpatients. 1. Clinical and Demographic Characteristics
Authors: Kosky Robert , McAlpine Ian , Silburn Sven , Richmond John
Published: November 2008

This paper describes clinical and demographic characteristics of 664 children who attended outpatient child psychiatry clinics in Perth, Western Australia, over a one-year period. All social classes were represented; parents were the most common source of referral and typically the child had been assessed or treated for emotional or behavioural problems by other agencies previously. Referrals from the juvenile justice system were uncommon. The accessibility of clinics to the child population was found to have a significant effect on the rate of referral. Only 10% of the sample received conduct disorder diagnoses, whereas 16.5% had mixed disorders of conduct and emotion, and 42% had emotional disorders. Environmental circumstances, particularly recent marital break-up, family discord and recent experience of loss, were contributing factors to the child's clinical presentation in a large proportion of cases.
The Psychiatric Complications of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Whitlock F. A.
Published: November 2008

Although James Parkinson in 1817 excluded mental symptoms from his original description of paralysis agitans, it has become clear that a wide range of psychiatric disorders can develop in patients with this disease. The principal conditions of dementia, depression and confusional syndromes, many of which are precipitated by drugs used in the treatment of parkinsonism, are reviewed. Particular attention is given to the frequency of dementia and its likely pathogenesis, to the nature of depression in Parkinson's disease and to the effects of different drugs, notably levodopa. A number of rare disorders characterised by parkinsonian and psychiatric symptoms are also discussed.
Statistical Power in Psychiatric Research
Authors: Bird Kevin D. , Hall Wayne
Published: November 2008

Statistical power is neglected in much psychiatric research, with the consequence that many studies do not provide a reasonable chance of detecting differences between groups if they exist in the population. This paper attempts to improve current practice by providing an introduction to the essential quantities required for performing a power analysis (sample size, effect size, type 1 and type 2 error rates). We provide simplified tables for estimating the sample size required to detect a specified size of effect with a type 1 error rate of α and a type 2 error rate of β, and for estimating the power provided by a given sample size for detecting a specified size of effect with a type 1 error rate of α. We show how to modify these tables to perform power analyses for multiple comparisons in univariate and some multivariate designs. Power analyses for each of these types of design are illustrated by examples.
Psychogeriatric Studies in Australia
Authors: Viet Nguyen Kim , Phammai Vu Phuonc
Published: November 2008

This paper describes the experiences and impressions of two Vietnamese psychiatrists from Hanoi during our period of postgraduate study in Australia in 1996.
Universal Public Health Insurance and Private Coverage: Externalities in Health Care Consumption
Authors: Glied Sherry
Published: November 2008

Puisqu’il est possible d’acheter, à titre privé, des services de santé, on observe une inégalité dans l’accès à ces services. Or, cela semble poser, sur le plan des politiques publiques, un défi plus important que l’inégalité existant dans d’autres domaines. Dans cet article, j’analyse le rapport entre l’inégalité dans l’accès aux services de santé et le bien-être collectif. J’examine les sources de la demande d’assurance-maladie privée, et les liens qu’il y a entre cette demande et la santé, les tendances sur le plan des dépenses gouvernementales en santé, et le bien-être individuel et collectif. Ensuite, je suggère une approche originale, en matière de politiques publiques, d’aborder les coûts sociaux des services de santé.
Management of surgical patients receiving anticoagulation and antiplatelet agents
Authors: Thachil J , Gatt A , Martlew V
Published: November 2008

Background

Temporary interruption of long-term anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy during surgical procedures exposes patients to thrombotic risk. Continuation of these agents, however, is associated with an increased risk of bleeding. Managing anticoagulation can be a particular challenge in the emergency setting.

Methods

A literature review of published articles sourced using the keywords heparin, warfarin, perioperative, antiplatelet, aspirin and surgery was undertaken. A management plan for all likely situations was developed.

Results and conclusion

Based on an individual assessment of risk factors for arterial or venous thromboembolism and the risk of perioperative bleeding, it is possible to form an anticoagulant and antiplatelet management plan likely to achieve a low incidence of bleeding and thrombosis. A multidisciplinary approach is desirable.
Complications and follow-up after pancreas-preserving total duodenectomy for duodenal polyps
Authors: Al-Sarireh B , Ghaneh P , Gardner-Thorpe J , Raraty M , Hartley M , Sutton R , Neoptolemos J P
Published: November 2008

Background

Patients with duodenal polyps are at risk of duodenal cancer. Pancreas-preserving total duodenectomy (PPTD) is an alternative to partial pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

Twelve patients (seven men and five women) with a median age of 59 (interquartile range (i.q.r.) 50–67) years underwent PPTD for large (over 20 mm) solitary polyps or multiple (more than three) duodenal polyps confined to the muscularis propria on endoscopic ultrasonography.

Results

Median hospital stay was 21 (i.q.r. 10–36) days with no deaths and no blood transfusion. Six patients developed postoperative complications, one requiring reoperation. Histology demonstrated gastrointestinal stromal tumour in three patients, low-grade dysplasia in one, moderate-grade dysplasia in eight and duodenal intramucosal adenocarcinoma in one. During a median follow-up of 20 (i.q.r. 8–41) months one patient experienced recurrent acute pancreatitis (due to hypertriglyceridaemia) and one developed a jejunal adenocarcinoma in the neoduodenum.

Conclusion

The morbidity of PPTD is similar to that of partial pancreatoduodenectomy, but PPTD preserves the whole pancreas and reduces the number of anastomoses.
Improving quality of care by system change
Authors: Lees T A
Published: November 2008

Change based on evidence
ChemInform Abstract: Rare Earth‐Rich Cadmium Compounds RE4TCd (T: Ni, Pr, Ir, Pt).
Authors: Schappacher Falko M. , Rodewald Ute Ch. , Poettgen Rainer
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: The Low and High Temperature Crystal Structures of [Mg(H2O)6]XBr3 Double Salts (X: Rb, Cs).
Authors: Dinnebier Robert E. , Liebold‐Ribeiro Yvonne , Jansen Martin
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Crystal Structure of the Ln2PbS4 (Ln: Y, Dy, Ho, Er, and Tm) Compounds and a Comparison with the Crystal Structures of Other Rare Earth Lead Chalcogenides.
Authors: Gulay L. D. , Daszkiewicz M. , Shemet V. Ya.
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: New Transition‐Metal Borides Containing Trigonal‐Planar B4‐Units: Syntheses and Single‐Crystal Structure Analyses of Ti1.6Os2.4B2 and Ti1‐xFexOs2RhB2 (0 < x < 0.5).
Authors: Fokwa Boniface P. T. , Dronskowski Richard
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Disordered Structures of the TM—Mg—Zn 1/1 Quasicrystal Approximants (TM: Hf, Zr, or Ti) and Chemical Intergrowth.
Authors: Gomez Cesar Pay , Ohhashi Satoshi , Yamamoto Akiji , Tsai An Pang
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Electrochemical Properties of Ag5Te2Cl0.8Br0.2, a Representative of the Solid Solutions Ag5Te2Cl1‐xBrx.
Authors: Bawohl Melanie , Nilges Tom
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthetic Paramontroseite VO2 with Good Aqueous Lithium—Ion Battery Performance.
Authors: Wu Changzheng , Hu Zhenpeng , Wang Wei , Zhang Miao , Yang Jinlong , Xie Yi
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Characterization of Two New Fluoroplumbate(II) Complexes: Tetrabutylammonium Fluorodihaloplumbate, (Bu)4N[PbX2F] (X: Cl, I).
Authors: Javanshir Zahra , Mehrani Kheyrollah , Ghammamy Shahriare , Saghatforoush LotfAli , Seyedsadjadi Seyedabolfazl , Hassanijoshaghani Ali , Tavakol Hossein
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Seven‐Coordinate Ruthenium Atoms Sequestered in Praseodymium Clusters in the Chloride {RuPr3}Cl3.
Authors: Herzmann Nina , Mudring Anja‐Verena , Meyer Gerd
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Complexes of Borane and N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes: A New Class of Radical Hydrogen Atom Donor.
Authors: Ueng Shau‐Hua , Brahmi Malika Makhlouf , Derat Etienne , Fensterbank Louis , Lacote Emmanuel , Malacria Max , Curran Dennis P.
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Transesterification of Various Methyl Esters under Mild Conditions Catalyzed by Tetranuclear Zinc Cluster.
Authors: Iwasaki Takanori , Maegawa Yusuke , Hayashi Yukiko , Ohshima Takashi , Mashima Kazushi
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Selective Monotetrahydropyranylation of Symmetrical Diols Using P2O5/SiO2 under Solvent‐Free Conditions and Their Depyranylation.
Authors: Eshghi Hossein , Rahimizadeh Mohammad , Saberi Sattar
Published: November 2008

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.