bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fibroxanthome atypique
Authors: Tapernoux B. , Jeanneret J.P. , Delacrétaz J.
Published: October 2009

A description is presented of an atypical fibroxanthoma which appeared on the cheek of an 80 year-old wine-grower following a razor blade wound. It is concluded that the problem concerning whether the nature of the atypical fibroxanthoma is reactional or neoplastic has not been definitely resolved.
Erythrokeratodermia Congenitalis Progressiva Symmetrica (Gottron)
Authors: Hopsu-Havu V.K. , Tuohimaa P.
Published: October 2009

The rate of epidermal cell proliferation was analyzed in a lesion and in normal skin area of a female patient of 21 suffering from erythrokeratodermia congenitalis progressiva symmetrica (Gottron). The study was based on incorporation of labelled thymidine in epidermal cells followed by radioautography. Mitotic and labelling indices were counted and duration of different phases of cell cycle (S, G2, M and G1 were calculated. In the uninvolved skin, the mitotic index was 0.3%, labelling index 4.0%, S phase 7.2 h, median G2 phase 3.5 h and mitosis 32 min (late prophase to anaphase). G1 phase was 169 h and the germinative cell cycle 180 h. In the lesion, mitotic index was 1.0%, labelling index 11.6%, S phase 8.8 h, median G2 phase 3.7 h, mitosis 46 min, G1 phase was 66 h and the germinative cell cycle 76 h. It was concluded that the rate of cell proliferation is markedly increased in the lesion because of shortening of the interphase. The mode of hyperkeratosis was considered to be due to increased cell proliferation rather than to retention of the horny layer.
Das Nagel-Patella-Syndrom
Authors: Linss G. , Hoffmann G. , Lubs H.
Published: October 2009

Report on a family with nail-patella syndrome and on its four cardinal symptoms, i.e. onychodystrophy, habitual patellar luxation, subluxation of the capitulum radii and iliac horns, and on other abnormalities of the fibrous tissue and osseous system. An autosomal-dominant inheritance and the combination to the ABO blood group system was found. An increased excretion of acid mucopolysaccharides and hydroxyproline in 24-hour urine samples could not be stated. But the excretion of proline was, in contrast to a control group, significantly increased. Renal insufficiency was by clinical investigations excluded.
Beitrag zur Problematik der Zusammenhänge zwischen der Psoriasis und verschiedenen Enzymaktivitäten
Authors: Gubler A. , Hoffmann K.
Published: October 2009

Different enzyme activities of psoriasis patients have been measured. Significant differences have only been found regarding the phosphoglucoisomerase in the serum of psoriasis patients.
Subcutaneous Trichophyton rubrum Abscesses
Authors: Thorne E. , Fusaro R.
Published: October 2009

A patient had the sudden onset of multiple deep subcutaneous abscesses from which Trichophyton rubrum was isolated. The clinical history and physical findings of the patient suggested that the abscesses were the result of hematologic spread rather than by the usual penetration of the dermatophyte through the epidermis and the pilosebaceous appendage.
Allergic Reactions Due to Chloracetamide
Authors: Nater J.P.
Published: October 2009

A female patient contracted a contact dermatitis which was caused by a baby body lotion. Apparently her baby was not sensitive to this lotion. The causative agent was chloracetamide which was used as a preservative in this lotion.
Studies on Carrier Substances of DNCB Contact Allergy
Authors: Nishioka Kiyoshi , Aoki T. , Nishioka K. , Tashiro M.
Published: October 2009

To elucidate the sensitization mechanism of allergic contact dermatitis isolation of carrier substances from DNCB-treated epidermis was attempted. The homogenate of the epidermis was found to contain immunogenic substances. One of its subcellular fractions could elicit intense contact hypersensitivity although it contained less amounts of haptenic groups than other fractions. Electron microscopy revealed it to be the microsomal fraction of epidermal cells. Treatment of the fraction with deoxycholic acid caused slight reduction of its immunizing ability.
Intradermal Skin Tests in Sarcoidosis
Authors: Gordon W.
Published: October 2009

Fourteen patients with sarcoidosis were subjected to intradermal injections of tuberculin, Kveim and lepromin antigen. Lepromin antigen produced a regular, positive, sarcoid reaction. It is postulated that the Kveim reaction represents only a response to the human tissue component and it is possible that sarcoidosis and the sarcoid reaction is an idiosyncratic group reaction.
Abschwächung der ekzematogenen Wirkung des Zementes durch Ferrosulfat
Authors: Burckhardt W. , Frenk E. , de Sépibus D. , Paschoud J.M. , Szadurski J. , Schwarz K.
Published: October 2009

Ferrous Sulphate combines with Potassium Dichromate in cement to form an insoluble compound. The addition of 0.3% Ferrous Sulphate to patch tests with cement reduced in sensitive individuals the intensity of patch test reactions and abolished it in some altogether. Patients with a normal skin alkaline resistance test benefitted most. These observations suggest possibilities of preventing cement-induced Chromate sensitivity.
Erfahrungen mit der 5-FU-Lokalbehandlung von Präkanzerosen und Karzinomen der Haut
Authors: Ott F.
Published: October 2009

A 5% 5-Fluoro-Uracil ointment was found during an extensive trial to be a useful treatment of basal cell carcinoma and premalignant lesions like senile or actinic keratoses. The results remained satisfactory during a 2 year, in some cases even longer, follow-up period.
Hautkomplikationen nach Pockenschutzimpfung
Authors: Matheis H.
Published: October 2009

The local, contact, haematogenous and allergic complications of smallpox vaccinations are reviewed and grouped under the headings of early and late postvaccinial eruptions. Three patients are reported who after primary vaccination developed on the 14th, 20th and 22nd day respectively skin lesions in which virus could not be demonstrated. The morphology of these eruptions was essentially varioliform but may range from erythema multiforme and erythema nosodum to severe, haemorrhagic exanthemata.
L’ouranite glandulaire
Authors: Laugier P. , Extermann J.-Ch. , Micheau C. , Reiffers J.
Published: October 2009

‘Ouranite glandulaire’ is a very definite clinical entity, much more frequent than it appears to be according to literature. It would be worth-wile tracking it down very early, so that by simple means of prophylaxis its extension with fears of degeneration may be avoided. The designation «ouranite glandulaire » proposed by Duperrat is preferable to that of «leukokeratosis», the latter being the expression of the lesion secondary to essential glandular lesion.
Nucleosidtriphosphatasepositive Dendritenzellen im Ösophagusepithel des Meerschweinchens
Authors: Fritsch P.F. , Schellander F.
Published: October 2009

The presence of intraepithelial dendritic cells in the oesophageal mucosa of the guinea-pig is reported. These cells correspond to the epidermal Langerhans cells with regard to their enzyme activity, their light microscopic morphology and distribution. The possible significance of this finding with regard to the present Langerhans cell-concept is briefly discussed.
Communications – Mitteilungen: Gibt es eine serologische Penicillinresistenz der Lues ?
Authors: Mazzi R.
Published: October 2009

A review of 125 patients with lues treated with penicillin during the past 5 years for different stages of their disease did not show any evidence for an increase in the frequency of penicillin resistance.
Ist die Neurolues im Verschwinden begriffen?
Authors: Burckhardt W. , Troxler A.
Published: October 2009

The frequency of neuro-syphilis recorded at the main hospitals in Zurich during the past 10 years seems to reflect the recorded number of primary syphilis 10 years earlier, which had been on a diminishing scale during the fifties. However, the diminishing number of cases with neurosyphilis may in addition be due to the fact that a number of undiagnosed patients with syphilis were treated accidentally with antibiotics thus preventing subsequent neurosyphilis.
Erfahrungen mit der Rimactan-Behandlung der Urethritis gonorrhoica beim Mann
Authors: Kaufmann J.
Published: October 2009

Of 60 male patients with gonorrhoeic urethritis treated with a single oral dose of 900 mg. of Rimactan (Rifamycin) 90% were cured. The failure rate of 10% correlates well with other publications. The drug is suitable for the treatment of patients who have failed to respond to penicillin or who are allergic to it.
Zur Ultrastruktur der Haut bei Protoporphyrinämie
Authors: Anton-Lamprecht I. , Meyer B.
Published: October 2009

In light-exposed areas of the skin patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria show deposits of a hyaline material around the capillaries of the upper dermis. Histochemically this material is PAS-positive and – by electron microscopy – reveals a finely fibrillar ultrastructure. The basal laminae of the small vessels are found to be multiplied and often show continuity with and transitional stages to the fibrillar masses. Basal Laminae and fibrillar masses are of the same ultrastructure. The perivascular deposits are supposed to represent material of excessively synthesized basal laminae of endothelial cells containing transuded substances as well as degenerative products of collagen.
Le trichogranulome interdigital du coiffeur
Authors: Pilotto P. , Hunziker N. , Orusco M.
Published: October 2009

Interdigital trichogranuloma is a relatively common disorder in men’s hairdressers but it is practically non-existant in women’s hairdressers (male and female).
Über den immunoelektrophoretischen Nachweis von zwei charakteristischen Proteinbanden in psoriatischer Epidermis
Authors: Sellei K. , Krebs A. , Bütler R.
Published: October 2009

Immunoelectrophoresis of water soluble extracts of epidermis obtained from normal individuals showed only the presence of serum proteins. Watery extracts of psoriatic epidermis showed on immunoelectrophoresis in addition the presence of two distinct precipitation lines in the globulin region. These lines are apparently not related to any serum protein, leucocytes, erythrocytes or to bacterial antigens; their further identification is being attempted.
Nebenwirkungen interner Arzneimittel auf die Haut unter besonderer Berücksichtigung neuerer Medikamente
Authors: Zürcher K. , Krebs A.
Published: October 2009

An attempt has been made to give an up-to-date summary of published data of cutaneous manifestations due to the systemic administration of drugs. The information is presented in tables and is meant as a diagnostic aid to dermatologists as well as other physicians. In this first part of a wider review analgesics, antipyretics and drugs used in the treatment of gout have been considered. The authors invite information about cutaneous side effects of modern drugs.
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Presenting with Cutaneous Symptoms
Authors: Haim S. , Tatarski I. , Zeltzer M. , Amikam S.
Published: October 2009

Disseminated Intravascular coagulation may be an important and determining factor in the pathophysiology of some of the cutaneous vascular manifestations. The use of heparin in this condition seems to be the therapy of choice and sometimes it is life saving. Hence, the importance of being aware of the possibility and polymorphism of this phenomenon. Three cases are described where the presenting symptoms of the disease were mainly dermatological.
Virus-like Particles in Rhabdomyosarcoma with Epidermodysplasia Verruciformis
Authors: Okamoto T. , Yabe Y. , Ohmori S.
Published: October 2009

Electron microscopic studies of rhabdomyosarcoma with epidermodysplasia verruciformis revealed the presence of C-type virus-like particles, having a diameter of 90–110 nm, But, no virus-like particles were found in common rhabdomyosarcoma without epidermodysplasia verruciformis.
Ultrastruktur der Spongiose beim allergischen Kontaktekzem
Authors: Metz J.
Published: October 2009

The ultrastructural study of the human allergic contact dermatitis revealed, that the initial feature of spongiosis is a ‘Mikroakantholyse’, which consists in a symmetric cleavage of the desmosomes. Later on a dissolution of the desmosomal residues occurs, so that a decrease of the desmosomes on the dissociated keratinocytes becomes demonstrable.
Dermatofibrosis lenticularis disseminata mit Osteopoikilie
Authors: Schimpf A. , Roth W. , Kopper J.
Published: October 2009

The cases of Dermatofibrosis lenticularis disseminata (DLD) published under this name are specified in tabular form. It appears that only 11 of the 21 cases can be coordinated to the Buschke-Ollendorff-syndrome – namely those with DLD and O. After explaining an own observation the cases hitherto published are discussed, and the pros and cons of their classification in the syndrome are treated. – Special attention is called to the participation of the elastic tissue to the DLD as proved by us.
Paraneoplastische Bullosis
Authors: Husz S. , Heszler E. , Török L.
Published: October 2009

Authors report the case history of a 61 years old patient in whom the retroauricularly appearing planocellular carcinoma and paraneoplastic pemphigoid ensued almost simultaneously. The precise diagnosis of the disease was assessed by means of indirect immunofluorescence examinations by the demonstration of the circulating antibodies bound to the basement membrane. Finally with reference to the data of the literature the possible pathomechanism of the paraneoplasmic bulloses is discussed.
Demonstration of Proteolytic Enzymes in Epidermal Extracts Capable of Producing Splits in Skin
Authors: Kandhari K.C. , Pasricha J.S. , Khurana V.K. , Duggal S.K.
Published: October 2009

A study was undertaken to demonstrate the presence of proteolytic enzymes in extracts of epidermis capable of producing splits in the skin. Epidermal extracts were prepared in 0.05 M borate buffer, pH 9.4 and their proteolytic activity demonstrated using egg albumin, glycyl-1-phenylalanine and benzoyl-1-arginine amide hydrochloride as substrates. The activity was maximum at 37° C and at neutral pH. Intradermal injections of these extracts into excised human skin led to dermo-epidermal separation. The factor responsible for this activity was resistant to prolonged dialysis and precipitated along with the proteins when the extract was saturated with ammonium sulphate.
Morphological and Histochemical Observations on the Crural Gland-Spur Apparatus of the Echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) together with Comparative Observations on the Femoral Gland-Spur Apparatus of the Duckbilled Platypus (Ornithorhyncus anatinus)
Authors: Krause William J.
Published: October 2009

The echidna and platypus have a crural/femoral gland that is linked by a large duct to a canalized, keratinous spur located on the medial side of the ankle. The echidna crural gland, like the femoral gland of the platypus, exhibits cyclic activity, being prominent in both monotremes when they are sexually active. In the present study, we compared the structure and histochemistry of these glands. During the active phase, the secretory epithelium forming the respective glands of both species increased in height and became packed with secretory granules that differed markedly in structure. Secretory granules of the echidna crural gland were electron dense and characterized by cores or areas of increased electron density. Those of the platypus were initially electron dense, but then became less dense and coalesced into irregular complexes of secretory material. Large cytoplasmic blebs extended from epithelial cell apices and appeared to be shed into the lumen, resulting in an apocrine mode of secretion. Exocytosis was also observed. A similar form of release of secretory product was not observed in the echidna. Secretory granules of both species were periodic acid-Schiff positive and stained for protein, suggesting that much of the secretory product was glycoprotein. Myoepithelial cells enveloped the secretory tubules of the platypus femoral gland, whereas they were not observed surrounding tubules comprising the echidna crural gland. During the quiescent phase, the epithelial cells of both species lost their secretory granules and decreased in height. As a result, the secretory tubules became smaller, intralobular connective tissue increased and the glands decreased in overall size.
Punctuation as Implicit Annotations for Chinese Word Segmentation
Authors: Li Zhongguo , Sun Maosong
Published: October 2009

We present a Chinese word segmentation model learned from punctuation marks which are perfect word delimiters. The learning is aided by a manually segmented corpus. Our method is considerably more effective than previous methods in unknown word recognition. This is a step toward addressing one of the toughest problems in Chinese word segmentation.
An Investigation into the Validity of Some Metrics for Automatically Evaluating Natural Language Generation Systems
Authors: Reiter Ehud , Belz Anja
Published: October 2009

There is growing interest in using automatically computed corpus-based evaluation metrics to evaluate Natural Language Generation (NLG) systems, because these are often considerably cheaper than the human-based evaluations which have traditionally been used in NLG. We review previous work on NLG evaluation and on validation of automatic metrics in NLP, and then present the results of two studies of how well some metrics which are popular in other areas of NLP (notably BLEU and ROUGE) correlate with human judgments in the domain of computer-generated weather forecasts. Our results suggest that, at least in this domain, metrics may provide a useful measure of language quality, although the evidence for this is not as strong as we would ideally like to see; however, they do not provide a useful measure of content quality. We also discuss a number of caveats which must be kept in mind when interpreting this and other validation studies.
Relationship between soil properties, crop management, plant growth and vigour, nematode occurrence and root damage in East African Highland banana-cropping systems: a case study in Rwanda
Authors: Gaidashova Svetlana V. , van Asten Piet , De Waele Dirk , Delvaux Bruno
Published: October 2009

Parasitic nematodes are widespread in Musa cropping systems in African
lowlands where they are known to limit crop production. However, their
distribution is very poorly known in the large parts of the East African
Highland banana ecology. We carried out a survey in 188 fields in Rwanda to
assess and understand nematode occurrence and damage under a wide range of
agroecological conditions. Altitude varied from 900 to 1800 m above sea
level and soil types were distinctly different in the five eco-regions
sampled and derived from diverse parent materials; i.e., Ruhengeri
(Andosol), Gitarama-Butare (Acrisol), Kibungo (Nitisol), Gashonga
(Ferralsol) and Bugarama (Fluvisol and Vertisol). Crop management practices,
root health parameters and nematode infection in roots were recorded for a
single East African highland banana cultivar (Intuntu, AAA-EA).
Plant-parasitic nematodes from five genera were identified: Pratylenchus
goodeyi, Helicotylenchus multicinctus, Meloidogyne spp., Radopholus similis
and Hoplolaimus pararobustus. Pratylenchus goodeyi was the dominant species
in all eco-regions except in Bugarama (lowland). Only the presence of P.
goodeyi significantly correlated with root necroses. Altitude was strongly
correlated with root densities of P. goodeyi and R. similis. A possible
negative impact by P. goodeyi on banana yields was masked by the fact that
nematode populations were positively correlated with high plant density
and/or mulching practices, which led to relatively high plant vigour
irrespective of soil type. Therefore, controlled field experiments will be
needed to assess whether root necrosis caused by P. goodeyi at high altitude
(>1400 m) actually has a detrimental impact on banana yields, similar to
that observed for root-lesion nematodes at lower altitudes.
Morphological and molecular characterisation of Enchodelus babakicus n. sp. and E. macrodorus Thorne, 1939 (Nematoda: Nordiidae) from Iran
Authors: Pedram Majid , Niknam Gholamreza , Guerrero Pablo , Ye Weimin , Robbins Robert T.
Published: October 2009

A new species with a rounded tail belonging to the Enchodelus
macrodorus-group is described from a natural habitat in the vicinity of
Kaleibar City, north-west Iran. Enchodelus babakicus n. sp. is characterised
by its medium sized body (1.21-1.56 mm), lip region offset by a marked
constriction, odontostyle 40-45 μm long, tripartite uterus and presence of
abundant males with 49-61 μm long spicules and 10-14 spaced ventromedian
supplements. The new species is close to E. distinctus, E. groenlandicus, E.
macrodorus, E. microdoroides and E. saxifragae. A population of E.
macrodorus was also found in the same sample as the new species. Molecular
analysis was inferred from sequencing of 18S rDNA and ITS1 regions of three
species of the genus from Iran, including E. babakicus n. sp., E. macrodorus
and E. veletensis, together with other available sequences in GenBank. The
sequences showed that E. babakicus n. sp. belongs to a clade formed by
Enchodelus species characterised by a rounded tail.
Effective concentration and range of activity of abamectin as seed treatment against root-knot nematodes in tomato under glasshouse conditions
Authors: Cabrera J. Alfonso , Kiewnick Sebastian , Grimm Christoph , Dababat Abd el-Fattah A. , Sikora Richard A.
Published: October 2009

The objectives of this study were to determine the efficacy, range of
activity and effective concentrations (EC50 and EC80) of abamectin as a seed
treatment of tomato against Meloidogyne incognita, M. arenaria and M.
javanica. The study revealed that abamectin seed treatment at concentrations
ranging between 0.3 and 1 mg a.s. seed−1 is highly effective against the
three species of root-knot nematodes, retaining its efficacy in the soil for
8 weeks. The highest EC50 found was reached at 0.2 mg a.s. seed−1. The
highest EC80 for the number of egg masses per g root in the three
Meloidogyne species was attained at 0.51 mg a.s. seed−1. Abamectin as a seed
treatment is promising for the control of root-knot nematodes in the field
since only low amounts of active ingredient are required to give adequate
protection in the most sensitive stages of tomato root growth and
development.
Influence of substrate on the body-waving behaviour of nematodes
Authors: Kruitbos Laura M. , Heritage Stuart , Hapca Simona , Wilson Michael J.
Published: October 2009

The soil-dwelling nematodes Steinernema carpocapsae, S. scapterisci, S.
feltiae, S. glaseri, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, H. megidis,
Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita and Caenorhabditis elegans were placed on agar
plates each containing four substrates (peat, sand, sandy loam and leaf
litter). The body-waving behaviour of infective juveniles was recorded over
a 10-day period in the presence or absence of an insect, Galleria
mellonella, a susceptible host of some species. Body-waving behaviour
differed amongst species and varied significantly in relation to substrate,
time and the presence of G. mellonella. Steinernema carpocapsae showed
body-waving behaviour more than other species and this tendency increased
significantly with time. More S. carpocapsae were seen body waving on peat
and leaf litter than on either sandy loam or sand. Conversely, sand promoted
body waving in S. scapterisci. Body waving by C. elegans was more common on
peat than on any of the other substrates. Heterorhabditis megidis, not
previously known to body wave, did so in low numbers on peat and sandy loam.
The remaining four species did not body wave. Previous work has shown that
the presence of S. glaseri increases body waving by S. carpocapsae. We
investigated whether substrate influenced this interaction and also included
S. scapterisci in the study. The presence of S. glaseri significantly
altered rates of body waving in S. carpocapsae and S. scapterisci in a way
that was substrate-dependent. Our data suggest that body-waving behaviour is
determined by substrate quality and differing body-waving behaviours may be
a mechanism by which nematodes avoid competition.
The Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of SiCp-reinforced Copper Matrix Composites by Hot Pressing
Authors: Changchun Wang  , Guanghui Min  , Kang Suk-Bong
Published: October 2009

SiCp-reinforced copper matrix composites with the reinforcement content of 30—50 vol.% were fabricated by hot pressing using Cu-coated and uncoated SiC powder. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the composites were studied. The results showed that with the increasing of SiCp volume fraction, the Brinell hardness of the composites increased first and arrived at a peak value, then decreased, while the bending strength decreased continuously. On the condition of same volume fraction of SiCp, the Brinell hardness and bending strength of the composites using coated powder were higher than that of the composites using uncoated powder. The annealing treatment lowered the Brinell hardness and bending strength of the composites. When the volume fraction of SiCp was 30 vol.%, the fracture mechanism of the composites showed a mixed manner of dimple and quasi-cleavage fracture. While the volume fraction of SiCp was 50 vol.%, the fracture behavior of the composites dominated in quasi-cleavage manner with seldom dimples.
Numerical Investigations on the Mechanical Properties of Adhesively Bonded Hollow Sphere Structures
Authors: Fiedler Thomas , Öchsner Andreas , Grácio José
Published: October 2009

This article is on the numerical determination of the mechanical properties of adhesively bonded hollow sphere structures (HSS). Two types of morphologies, namely syntactic and partial HSS, are considered. In the case of syntactic HSS, the hollow steel spheres are completely embedded in adhesive matrix, whereas for partial HSS the adhesive is concentrated at the contact points of neighbouring spheres. In addition to the elastic properties of the structure, the initial tensile and compressive yield strengths and the 1% offset yield strengths are calculated and compared for both configurations. Here, the anisotropic behavior of the adhesive in the tensile and compressive regime is incorporated. It could be shown that both configurations reveal quite different behavior on the macro-scale and therefore can be chosen according to specific requirements. Furthermore, the applicability of the adhesive as design parameter for the mechanical properties of HSS is shown.
Fabrication and Properties of Magnesium (AM50)-based Hybrid Composites with Graphite Nanofiber and Alumina Short Fiber
Authors: Babu J.S.S. , Nair K.P. , Unnikrishnan G. , Kang C.G. , Kim H.H.
Published: October 2009

In this article, an attempt has been made to the development of magnesium (AM50)-based hybrid composites with graphite nanofiber (GNFs)/alumina short fiber (Al2O3sf) hybrid preforms by infiltration method. The main objective of the present work is to investigate the effect of higher volume percentage of GNFs with the mechanical properties of the Mg/Al 2O3sf composites system. Based on the SEM observations, it has been confirmed that the Al2O3sf are good dispersed within the matrix metal. However, the GNFs were formed agglomerated within the matrix metal due to the higher volume percentage of GNFs while preforming. The mechanical properties such as hardness, tensile strength, and compressive strength of composites improved upto a threshold of 10% volume fraction of fibers. When the volume fraction of fibers was above 10% the properties showed to decreasing trend due to the presence of GNFs agglomerations. In the present hybrid composites, even though GNFs existed as clusters their distribution within the array of Al2O3sf network are found to be relatively good. It suggests that a critical amount of GNFs agglomerates may actually be beneficial for the mechanical properties of the composites.
Fabrication and Characterization of HA-ZrO2-MWCNT Ceramic Composites
Authors: Meng Y.H. , Tang C.Y. , Tsui C.P. , Uskokovic P.S.
Published: October 2009

In this article, a new kind of hydroxyapatite-zirconia-carbon nanotube (HA-ZrO2-MWCNT) ceramic composites was fabricated to enhance the mechanical properties of a hydroxyapatite (HA) ceramic for satisfying various requirements in bone rehabilitation. A new dispersing process was proposed to ensure a homogeneous distribution of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in the HA ceramic matrix. The flexural strength and fracture toughness of the HAZrO2-CNT composites were enhanced by about 126% and 124%, respectively, as compared with those of the unmodified HA ceramics. The X-ay diffraction analysis revealed that a small quantity of HA decomposed in the composites with introduction of strengthening phases. The in vitro test results showed that the sample surfaces were covered with a new apatite layer after immersion in simulated body fluid for 10 days, indicating good biocompatibility of the composites.
Digital Divide in Tourism
Authors: Minghetti Valeria , Buhalis Dimitrios
Published: October 2009

Tourism is an important wealth creator at both global and local levels. An appropriate diffusion of the information and communication technologies (ICTs) in this sector can improve the social and economic impacts, from which many citizens and organizations in developed and developing countries can benefit.This article analyzes digital divide and proposes an integrated theoretical framework to explore the relevant factors that lead to unequal access and use of ICTs for tourists and destinations. It integrates the technical, social, and motivational aspects derived from different approaches to digital divide to demonstrate how these factors affect the capacity of markets and destinations to meet and interact effectively in a global tourism environment.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Perphenazine in Schizophrenia Patients From CATIE: Impact of Race and Smoking
Authors: Jin Yuyan , Pollock Bruce G. , Coley Kim , Miller Del , Marder Stephen R. , Florian Jeff , Schneider Lon , Lieberman Jeffrey , Kirshner Margaret , Bies Robert R.
Published: October 2009

The goal of the study was to characterize population pharmacokinetics (PPK) for perphenazine in patients with schizophrenia from the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE). Patients (n = 156) received 8 to 32 mg of perphenazine daily for 14 to 600 days for a total of 421 plasma concentrations measurements. Nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling was used to determine PPK characteristics of perphenazine. One‐ and 2‐compartment models with various random effect implementations and mixture distributions were evaluated. Objective function values and goodness‐of‐fit plots were used as model selection criteria. Age, weight, sex, race, smoking, and concomitant medications were evaluated as covariates. A 1‐compartment linear model with proportional error best described the data. The population mean clearance and volume of distribution for perphenazine were 483 L/h and 18 200 L, respectively. Race and smoking status had significant impacts on perphenazine clearance estimates. In addition, the estimated population mean clearance was 48% higher in nonsmoking African Americans than in nonsmoking other races (512 L/h vs 346 L/h). Active smokers eliminated perphenazine 159 L/h faster than nonsmokers in each race. Clearances for smoking African Americans versus smokers in other races were 671 L/h versus 505 L/h, respectively.
Laying Down Their Rifles: The Changing Influences on the Retention of Volunteer British Army Reservists Returning from Iraq, 2003—2006
Authors: Dandeker Christopher , Eversden-French Claire , Greenberg Neil , Hatch Stephani , Riley Paul , van Staden Lauren , Wessely Simon
Published: October 2009

U.K. Reserve Forces, principally the Territorial Army (TA), have been increasingly used since the end of the cold war, but there have been some concerns about their mental health problems and also possible unwillingness to remain in service. This article reports on the retention issues of 191 TA personnel who deployed to Iraq from 2003 to 2006. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed from three complementary studies. The authors found that, in 2003, negative aspects of Army organizational culture were reported as the prime reasons for TA personnel wishing to leave the military. In particular, Reservists reported their being unaccepted and underutilized. In contrast, by 2006, TA personnel were generally reporting being satisfied with their work as a Reservist and felt integrated with Regular colleagues. Those who stated they wanted to leave the military now reported it was primarily because of poor military family welfare support. These results suggest that although the British Army appears to have successfully managed the changing role and integration of the TA on operations, family welfare needs further consideration as an important influence on retention. Since the end of data collection for this study, new measures focusing on welfare have been introduced. Future work will assess the impact of these changes.
Adding Gender to American Urban History
Authors: Krissoff Boehm Lisa
Published: October 2009

Urban history can be merged with other history subfields to create intriguing amalgamations that work well as the subject for college classes. In this article, the author explores the intellectual journey that led her to combine urban history and women’s history, both in her own research and in her college classroom. The intricacies of the class “Gender and the City,” are explored, including reading assignments, a courses exercise in mental mapping, and class participation in a community oral history project. Oral history proves to be an extremely malleable assignment, even when rigorously following the Oral History Association guidelines, and the methodology befits many kinds of urban history courses.
Strategies to Promote Workplace Innovation: A Comparative Analysis of Nine National and Regional Approaches
Authors: Alasoini Tuomo
Published: October 2009

This article provides an analysis of strategies aimed to promote workplace innovation in nine national and regional policy contexts in the last few years. Its conceptual objective is to elaborate a model, developed by Naschold, and assess its usability in the analysis of contemporary workplace development strategies. The empirical objective of this article is to assess strengths and weaknesses of the strategies and similarities and differences between them by means of the model. The comparison results in a map of profiles of the nine strategies. The policy objective of this article is to raise issues that can be considered crucial for promoting learning across national borders in workplace development. The study was implemented between 2005 and 2008 as part of the EU-funded WORK-IN-NET project (2004—9).
Organizations’ Use of Temporary Employment and a Climate of Job Insecurity among Belgian and Spanish Permanent Workers
Authors: de Cuyper Nele , Sora Beatriz , de Witte Hans , Caballer Amparo , Peiró José María
Published: October 2009

Extensive use of temporary employment may create a climate of job insecurity among permanent workers in a specific organization. This climate is likely conditional upon the proportion of temporary workers in the organization, and upon the reasons for hiring temporary workers. The percentage of temporary workers may relate to permanent workers’ shared perceptions of job insecurity. Employers’ motives for hiring temporary workers may relate to permanent workers’ perceptions of job insecurity when these motives threaten the position of permanent workers. Conversely, the relationship with a climate of job insecurity is likely negative when the organization hires temporary workers to support permanent workers. Analyses are based on samples of Belgian ( N = 216) and Spanish ( N = 404) permanent workers among 14 and 29 organizations, respectively. The results show a positive relationship between the percentage of temporary workers and a climate of job insecurity among permanent workers. Few motives were predictive for permanent workers’ climate of job insecurity. The findings are interpreted with reference to the specific Belgian and Spanish context.
Family Businesses and Trade Unions in Norway
Authors: Gulbrandsen Trygve
Published: October 2009

In this article an examination is made of the extent to which employees in family businesses are members of unions compared to workers in non-family businesses and of the extent to which owners collaborate with trade unions. The analyses demonstrate that the percentage of union members in family businesses with a family CEO (owner-management), controlling for other factors, is significantly lower than in family businesses with CEOs who are not related or in non-family businesses. Theoretically, there are two possible explanations for this finding. The workers may abstain from joining a union because they are unwilling to bear the brunt of opposing an authoritarian owner-manager. Or, alternatively, the owner-manager may treat the employees so well that they see no need for a trade union. The analyses indicate that lower union density in owner-managed enterprises is associated with a higher wage level. This result lends support to the second explanation.
Union Responses to Restructuring and the Growth of Contingent Labour in the Irish Telecommunications Sector
Authors: MacKenzie Robert
Published: October 2009

This article explores union responses to subcontracting in the context of the Irish telecommunications sector. Through a longitudinal case study the development of strategy is traced over a number of years as the union moved away from a policy of exclusion towards one of engagement. As the findings show, a three-tiered approach brought successes in terms of the retention and recruitment of workers on non-standard contracts. Yet this brought tensions over the role of the union in the regulation of the subcontracting process.
Removing barriers to work: Building economic security for people with psychiatric disabilities
Authors: Morrow Marina , Wasik Adrienne , Cohen Marcy , Perry Karen-Marie Elah
Published: October 2009

Using findings from two studies conducted in British Columbia, Canada, that examined income and employment supports for people with psychiatric disabilities we argue that economic security is essential for mental health recovery, and that supported employment and social enterprise models are well suited to support these goals. We contend that the aims and values underlying neo-liberalism, with its attendant welfare state restructuring, undermine the progressive vision of recovery and the practice of citizenship for people with psychiatric disabilities.
Small, smaller, smallest. Steps towards bloodless neonatal and infant cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Golab Hanna D. , Bogers J.J.C.
Published: October 2009

In open heart surgery in neonates and small children, the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit surface and the priming volume are relatively large in relation to patient size and blood volume. Therefore, the use of allogeneic blood is inevitable to maintain the optimal hematocrit level during bypass. To avoid the deleterious effects of blood transfusion, as well as to reduce the contact surface of blood with artificial materials, we stepwise reduced the bypass circuit size. Use of the commercially available minimized elements and an adjusted set-up of the system allowed us to reduce usage of allogeneic blood in the prime and during the bypass. However, other supplemental measures are needed to obtain asanguineous cardiopulmonary bypass for neonatal and infant patients.
Evaluation of quality-of-life measures for use in palliative care: a systematic review
Authors: Albers Gwenda , Echteld Michael A , de Vet Henrica CW , Onwuteaka-Philipsen Bregje D , van der Linden Mecheline HM , Deliens Luc
Published: October 2009

Purpose: In this literature review we evaluated the feasibility and clinimetric quality of quality-of-life (QoL) measurement instruments suitable for use in palliative care. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature review to identify instruments measuring (at least one domain of) QoL. We selected articles that present data on patients receiving palliative care and at least one measurement property. A checklist was used to describe the characteristics of the instruments, and a widely accepted rating list was used to evaluate the clinimetric aspects. Results: 29 instruments were identified and evaluated, most of which were targeted at palliative patients in general. None of the instruments demonstrated satisfactory results for all measurement properties. Fourteen instruments received positive ratings for construct validity. Thirteen instruments were tested for reliability, but only two were tested adequately and had positive results (ICC>0.70). Responsiveness was not tested adequately for any of the instruments. Very few of the studies provided information on the interpretation of the scores. Overall, the MQOL, followed by the QUAL-E and the QODD, received the best ratings for their measurement properties. Conclusions: Many measurement instruments were identified, but most had not yet been adequately evaluated. The evaluation of existing instruments with good content validity should have priority over the development of new instruments.
Creating social work competencies for practice in hospice palliative care
Authors: Bosma Harvey , Johnston Meaghen , Cadell Susan , Wainwright Wendy , Abernethy Ngaire , Feron Andrew , Kelley Mary Lou , Nelson Fred
Published: October 2009

Social workers play an important role in the delivery of Hospice Palliative Care in many diverse settings. The profession brings a unique perspective to end-of-life care that reflects and supports the holistic philosophy of Hospice Palliative Care. Despite the prominent and longstanding position of social work in this area, the role and functions of social workers had not been clearly defined. A Canadian task group of social work practitioners and educators utilized a modified Delphi process to consult front line clinicians nationally, and thereby achieved consensus regarding the identification and description of eleven core competencies in Hospice Palliative Care. These competencies are relevant for social workers at different experience levels across care settings. They can be used to inform social work practice, as well as professional development and educational curricula in this area.
Comparison of 5 Health-Related Quality-of-Life Indexes Using Item Response Theory Analysis
Authors: Fryback Dennis G. , Palta Mari , Cherepanov Dasha , Bolt Daniel , Kim Jee-Seon
Published: October 2009

Background. Five health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) indexes—EQ-5D, HUI2, HUI3, QWB-SA, and SF-6D—are each used to assign community-based utility scores to health states, although these scores differ. Objective. The authors transform these indexes to a common scale to understand their interrelationships. Methods. Data were from the National Health Measurement Study, a telephone survey of 3844 US adults. The 5 indexes were analyzed using item response theory analysis to estimate scores on an underlying construct of summary health, θ. Unidimensionality was evaluated using nonlinear principal components analysis. Index scores were plotted against the estimated scores on the common underlying construct. In addition, scores on the Health and Activities Limitation Index (HALex), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Healthy Days questions, and self-rated health on a 5-category scale ranging from excellent to poor were plotted. Results. SF-6D and QWB-SA are nearly linear across the range of θ but with a shallow slope; EQ-5D, HUI2, and HUI3 are linear with a steep slope from low θ (poor health) into midrange of θ, then approximately linear with a less steep slope for higher θ (health just below to well above average), although the inflection points differ by index. Conclusion. Simple linear functions may serve as crosswalks among these indexes only for lower health states, albeit with low precision. Ceiling effects make crosswalks among most of the indexes ill specified above a certain level of health. Although each index measures generic health on a utility scale, these indexes are not identical but are relatively simply, if imprecisely, related.
From “Rebel” to “Returnee”
Authors: Annan Jeannie , Brier Moriah , Aryemo Filder
Published: October 2009

In war’s aftermath, many young soldiers attempt to reintegrate and reestablish their lives. Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) programs are a priority intervention for youth in postconflict countries; yet there is little evidence to suggest what aids reintegration. This research uses qualitative methodology to describe the issues salient to adolescents and young adults in daily life after returning from a rebel group in northern Uganda. It explores the process of reintegration with 23 male youth abducted by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) and draws on a representative quantitative survey of 741 abducted and nonabducted youth in the region. Participants described returning home, their reception by families and neighbors, feelings after returning, and how they negotiated the transition from being a “rebel” to a “formerly abducted child’ and a member of their family and community.
Advancing the Field of Family Business Research: Further Testing the Measurement Properties of the F-PEC
Authors: Holt Daniel T. , Rutherford Matthew W. , Kuratko Donald F.
Published: October 2009

The field of family business research is advanced by further examining the validity and reliability of Klein, Astrachan, and Smyrnios’s Family Influence on Power, Experience, and Culture Scale. Data from 831 family businesses are analyzed to assess the measure’s construct validity using exploratory and confirmatory techniques. The hypothesized three-factor model emerged to include culture, power, and experience. Extending the previous effort, the measure’s convergent validity was tested by assessing differences between the measure’s scores and the desires of the senior generation and the commitment of the next generation. Results support an initial level of convergent validity.
Universities’ Responses to Globalisation: The Influence of Organisational Culture
Authors: Burnett Sally-Ann , Huisman Jeroen
Published: October 2009

This study sought to assess how and why some higher education institutions have responded to aspects of globalisation and, in particular how organisational culture influences universities’ responses to globalisation. Using a predominantly qualitative, mixed-methods approach, empirical research was used to explore the impact of globalisation at four Canadian universities. A multiple, case-study approach was used to achieve a depth of understanding to establish the universities’ culture, institutional strategies, and practices in response to globalisation. Several similarities and many differences were revealed in the institutional responses that are explained in terms of institutional culture. Suggestions are made for developing activities that would ensure culture becomes more entrepreneurial such that responses to globalisation are optimised.
Analyzing the Impact of Disability Legislation in Canada and the United States
Authors: Kovacs Burns Katharina , Gordon Gary L.
Published: October 2009

Experiences with disability legislation are different between Canada and the United States, but both countries have experiences to share regarding trends and best practices, as well as challenges addressing the accessibility of public facilities, housing, and transportation for persons with disabilities. Based on this distinction, a literature review was conducted focusing on the similarities and differences between Canadian and American disability legislation, primarily for trends and best practices that have resulted in positive outcomes for people with disabilities. Three times as much literature exists on U.S. experiences based on disabilities legislation over the past two decades. One major reason is that the United States has federal legislation specific to disabilities (dating back to 1990) and Canada has none. The impact of federal legislation is seen across each American state. Without federal legislation in Canada, the provinces are left to implement their own, often different, practices. This country comparison includes gaps in practices and considerations for improvements.