bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis with Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole Combination
Authors: Kandil E.
Published: October 2009

The results of treatment of 36 cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis are discussed. While initial rapid clinical improvement was noted as early as 5 days, complete cure required as long as 14weeks in some cases.
Psoriasis pustulosa generalisata von Zumbusch und Jodüberempfindlichkeit
Authors: Gutzwiller P.
Published: October 2009

Report on a patient with Psoriasis pustulosa generalisata Zumbusch. The withdrawal of corticosteroids and an allergy to iodines played an important part as causative agents. Hormonal aspects are discussed. Antibiotics according to the antibiogram and synthetic ACTH (Synacthen) are recommended as therapeutic measures.
Fluvographische Messungen der Hautdurchblutung nach Einnahme von neuen Venentherapeutika
Authors: MacTaggart B. , Brenn H.
Published: October 2009

The blood flow in the skin was increased by therapeutics active in treatment of varicose as shown by ftuvographic measurement.
On Methotrexate Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Schnitzer A.
Published: October 2009

Using methotrexate in the treatment of psoriasis, the author reports on clinical observations and side-effects. Prolonged treatment with this immuno-suppressant may increase patient’s susceptibility to septic infections and malignancies. An instance of the development of multiple basal cell carcinomas is described. The author advances the hypothesis that the effect of immuno-suppressives is achieved by de-histaminization of the tissues. By way of a temporary enhancement of the defense reactions, this de-histaminization leads to a resting phase of the disease process, but not to their cure. This hypothesis is discussed in the light of current concepts on the action mechanism of immuno-suppressive therapy.
Trimethoprim-Sulphamethoxazole in Acne vulgaris A Double-Blind Study
Authors: Hersle K.
Published: October 2009

A double-blind cross-over trial of the effect of trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (Bactrim® Roche) and placebo was carried out on 43 patients with. The dose of trimethoprim-sulpha- Acne vulgaris methoxazole was 80 and 400 mg, respectively, (1 tablet) daily. The active preparation and the placebo were given for 5 weeks. After this time the group initially given the active preparation was given the placebo and vice versa. Acne lesions were classified in various degrees of severity and counted according to a method previously described. The score was determined after each experimental period, and a statistically significant improvement was achieved with trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole treatment. No improvement with placebo treatment could be observed.
Corticosteroids versus Antibiotics
Authors: Raab W. , Windisch J.
Published: October 2009

The results of the in vitro and in vivo studies presented here demonstrate that gentamicin and β-methasone-17,21-diproprionate may safely be used together in combined preparations for topical therapy. In the presence of the glucocorticoid, the antibacterial activity of the antibiotic remains unimpaired; such is not the case with all the antibiotics investigated sofar on possible interactions with glucocorticoids. The measurement of topical glucocorticoid potency poses many problems. Among the various methods available, the vasoconstriction assay proved to be the most reliable and valuable device, as there exists an approximate correlation between the potency of glucocorticoids to provoke vasoconstriction and their relative clinical efficacy on skin lesions. In the vasoconstriction assay, the presence of gentamicin in a twentyfold concentration did not change the activity of β-methasone diproprionate. In this study, interactions between gentamicin and β-methasone diproprionate could be ruled out, from the angle of the antibiotic as well as from the angle of the glucocorticoid.
Lymphomatoid Papulosis
Authors: Thomsen K. , Hjort G. , Svendsen D.
Published: October 2009

Six new cases of lymphomatoid papulosis are presented. In 5 of the patients the clinical picture was that of parapsoriasis guttata or varioliformis, while in 1 patient the eruption was bullous. The duration of the disease ranged from 2 to 47 years. Progression to malignant lymphoma has not occurred. The histological changes suggested mycosis fungoides and reticulosarcoma. We interpret this disease as a malignant lymphoma kept in check by immunological mechanisms.
The Chest Keloid
Authors: Ronchese F.
Published: October 2009

For unknown reasons, keloids located on the chest respond poorly to any form of therapy. Patients demanding removal of small, so-called ‘spontaneous’ keloids from the chest area for cosmetic purposes should be discouraged. Biopsies, if just as good elsewhere, should avoid the chest area.
Studies on Isolated Keratin Fractions from Mammalian Epidermis
Authors: Bauer F.W.
Published: October 2009

A protein fraction precipitated at pH 5.5 from an alkaline extract of human epidermis or stratum corneum was not homogeneous on Sephadex gel filtration. The inhomogeneity was due to aggregation phenomena since polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of all Sephadex fractions gave the same results: a highly-aggregated immobile protein plus two mobile protein bands that represented lower aggregates or subunits. This electrophoretic pattern was found for all the isolated fractions even for fractions with different iso-electrical points (IEP) and from different species. Freshly-ground callus gave essentially the same pattern, indicating that the bands are not artefacts caused by denaturation. The significance for the process of keratinizatíon is discussed.
Antigen Dd
Authors: Shrivastava P.K.
Published: October 2009

Human dandruff contains a water-soluble substance, antigen Dd, which precipitates some, but not all, human sera. Antigen Dd does not seem to occur in other body tissues and it is not related to the Australia antigen.
Kupferstoffwechsel bei Kranken mit Vitiligo nach Heliotherapie
Authors: Zlatkov N.B. , Petkov I. , Genov D. , Boshkov B.
Published: October 2009

The copper level and the ceruloplasmin activity in 84 vitiligo patients have been found to be increased in comparison with these in a control group. The increase of the serum copper is a consequence of the failure of the thyrosinase and the decreased activity of the enzyme in the depigmented areas. The heliotherapy on the sea shore apart of an improvement in the melanogenesis and a reestablishment of the normal level of the serum copper, brings about a significant decrease of the ceruloplasmin; this means that the functional insufficiency of the thyrosinase in vitiligo is a reversible process: the bombardment with high energy light quants links the copper with the thyrosinase molecule.
On the Inheritance of Incontinentia Pigmenti
Authors: Cantu-Garza J.M. , Ruiz-Barquin E.
Published: October 2009

A family in which the mother and 2 of her daughters were affected with incontinentia pigmenti is reported. To prove the genetic transmission of the disease on the basis that it is due to a single dominant gene on the X-chromosome with lethal effect in the hemizygous male, the authors studied 3 X-linked genetic markers (Xg blood group, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase [G-6-PD] variants and colour blindness). Although the results were not informative in the present case, the procedure is recommended when studying other families with incontinentia pigmenti.
Lymphosarcoma and Cutaneous Tuberculosis
Authors: Haim S. , Friedman-Birnbaum R. , Tatarsky I.
Published: October 2009

A 55-year-old male with lymphosarcoma developed cutaneous tuberculosis during an asymptomatic stage of his basic disease. The possible relationship between the two processes is discussed.
Exanthematische Keloide nach Varizellen
Authors: Matheis H.
Published: October 2009

A 14 year old girl developed 8 weeks after a widespread attack of chickenpox a papular keloidal eruption affecting symmetrically the trunk, especially the shoulder and the upper arms. There was neither a personal nor family history of keloids. Microbial, immunological and localising factors of keloids are reviewed and critically discussed.
Reactive Perforating Collagenosis
Authors: Pasricha J.S. , Girgla H.S. , Kandhari K.C.
Published: October 2009

Reactive perforating collagenosis is a recently-recognized entity, in which a series of epidermal changes lead to elimination of altered collagen bundles through the transepidermal route. Clinically the disease is manifested by the appearance of asymptomatic papules which develop a central umbilication and then disappear spontaneously in 6–8 weeks. A necrobiotic change of collagen in response to trauma in genetically-predisposed individuals is considered to be of etiologic significance. The authors describe a typical case in which a distinct improvement in summer months was regularly recorded for the last 20 years.
Kyste épidermoïde papillifère
Authors: Tapernoux B. , Delacrétaz J.
Published: October 2009

Description of a firm and pigmented tumor of a 4-year duration in the lumbar region of a 63-year-old man. Histologically we found an epidermal papilliferous cyst, with high columns of abnormal keratinized cells.
The Interference of Some Substances with the Water Vapour Loss of Human Skin
Authors: Spruit D.
Published: October 2009

The specific resistances (SR) of various substances (a.o. vaseline, wool-fat, emulsions, paraffins, vegetable oils, simple esters) to the passage of water were measured. The reliability of the experimental measurement was checked by calibration with n-hexa-decane as a reference substance. The effectiveness of the reduction of skin’s water vapour loss after application of some substances with a high SR was determined in relation to their measured SR. The influence of ambient circumstances and peculiar characteristics of the skin were investigated.
Lymphographie des Skrotums und der Penishaut bei Lymphangioma circumscriptum cysticum
Authors: Schmid G.H. , Greiner R.
Published: October 2009

In a 13-year-old patient with circumscribed cystic lymphangioma of the scrotum and penis, the subepidermal lymph plexus was demonstrated by means of an injection of contrast medium in 3 cysts. On the a. p. view, a fine network of communicating lymph vessels was seen distributed evenly over the skin of the scrotum and the penis. The wealth of lymph vessels in this region showing marked tortuosity and dilatations in sections was particularly remarkable. Comparable lymphographie investigations of the scrotum and penis have not been reported in the literature to date so fare as we know.
Characterization of Various Types of Rat Cutaneous Anaphylaxis from their Drug-Susceptibilities
Authors: Harada M. , Takeuchi M. , Katagiri K.
Published: October 2009

According to their susceptibilities to antihistamines, diethylcarbamazine, and colchicine, 6 types of cutaneous anaphylaxis in the rat were characterized. (1) The ACA reaction was highly sensitive to antihistamines and diethylcarbamazine but almost insensitive to colchicine. (2) The homologous PCA reaction by the ‘early’ antibody was almost completely inhibited by antihistamines but little affected by colchicine. This reaction was also significantly suppressed by diethylcarbamazine. (3) When sensitization was made with the intradermal injection of the homologous hyperimmune antiserum, the PCA reaction was insensitive to any of antihistamines, colchicine, and diethylcarbamazine. (4) When local sensitization was made using the heterologous antiserum, the PCA reaction was depressed by colchicine but not by antihistamines or diethylcarbamazine. (5) When the rats were generally sensitized by the intravenous injection of the homologous hyperimmune antiserum, the PCA reaction was quite sensitive to antihistamines and diethylcarbamazine but not to colchicine. (6) When systemic sensitization was made using the heterologous antiserum, the PCA reaction was highly sensitive to both of antihistamines and colchicine.
Extensive Congenital Absence of Epidermis
Authors: Fuchs K. , Lichtig C. , Peretz B.A.
Published: October 2009

A case of a newborn child with extensive congenital absence of epidermis is presented. Following our review of the literature, this appears to be the most extensive case described. Some possible etiological causes of this rare disease are briefly discussed.
Über die Wirkungsprüfung von Externcorticoiden im Epidermoplasietest
Authors: Weirich E.G. , Longauer J.
Published: October 2009

Topical application to the guinea pig skin of either ethanol, isopropyl palmitate and n-hexadecane in combination or n-hexadecane and ethanol separately produces characteristic circumscribed hyperplasia of the epidermis. The degree and intraepidermal distribution of these changes can be quantitatively assessed by epidermometric methods. Simultaneous application of topical corticoids leads to an inhibition of epithelial proliferation, the degree of which can likewise be determined epidermometrically. Under appropriate experimental conditions, epidermoplasia inhibition tests furnish quantitative evidence of the antihyperplastic activity of locally applied corticosteroids on the epidermis. This aspect of their overall therapeutic action cannot be evaluated by other test methods.
Therapeutische Tips für die Praxis
Authors: Schuppli R.
Published: October 2009

1. All patients with so-called Penicillin resistant gonorrhoea respond to the intravenous infusion of 20 mega-units of Penicillin given over one 2 hour period without admission to hospital. 2. 75% of patients with contact eczema due to Chromate can be treated successfully with a local application which effects an ion-exchange and renders a previously positive patch with Dichromate negative. 3. Allergic contact eczema in hairdressers can be controlled by periodic injections of Synacthen-Depot (Ciba).
Lichen Verrucosus and Reticularis
Authors: Chapman R.S.
Published: October 2009

Two cases with extensive verrucous lesions, mainly on the limbs, appearing during adult life are described. Possible associations with other hyperkeratotic conditions are explored and the difficulties of satisfactory classification discussed.
Eczema vaccinatum
Authors: Grosfeld J.C.M. , van Ramshorst A.G.S.
Published: October 2009

Four cases of eczema vaccinatum arose as a contactinfection by a vaccinated child in their family. One patient died, two were treated with gammaglobuline only, one patient was treated with gammaglobuline and methisazone, one was treated only with methisazone, one patient received no specific treatment. With regard to the total number of vaccinations against smallpox eczema vaccinatum is a rare but serious complication. Some studies about the incidence are discussed.
Milch- und Hühnerei-Eiweiss-Allergie: Ausfall der Hautteste mit Gesamtextrakten und mit Hydrolysaten
Authors: Wüthrich B. , Schwarz-Speck M.
Published: October 2009

The problem of skin tests for allergy to ingested substances is discussed. The authors tested intradermally (using 0.02 ml of the antigen) their patients using raw, boiled and heat-denatured extracts of milk and egg-white. They also used extracts obtained by enzymic and chemical hydrolysis. A total of 18 patients were tested. Nearly all patients gave positive skin tests of the immediate type (Type I) to the crude extracts but only about 50% reacted to the hydrolysates. The test results are discussed in relation to the clinical manifestations.
Über die Toxizität der Borsäure
Authors: Schuppli R.
Published: October 2009

The clinical manifestations due to boric acid intoxication are described and deaths attributed to it are discussed. As boric acid is particularly effective against pseudomonas infections it does not seem justifiable to prohibit its use in therapy especially as several reported cases of alleged intoxication with this substance have not been adequately documented.
Assay of 0.2 % Fluocinolone Acetonide Cream for Alopecia Areata and Totalis
Authors: Pascher F. , Kurtin S. , Andrade R.
Published: October 2009

A paired comparison of the efficacy of a topically applied fluoridated corticosteroid, 0.2% fluocinolone acetonide in a cream base (Synalar-HP®, Syntex) and the base alone was carried out in 28 patients with alopecia areata and alopecia totalis. A satisfactory to excellent therapeutic response was obtained in 17/28 patients (61%), with the corticosteroid cream treatment. The patient’s age and the duration of the alopecia appeared to be important factors in the outcome. Although relapses were encountered in 11/17 patients (63%) during the course of treatment or within 3 months after treatment was discontinued, 12/17 (71%) of those who responded did retain sufficient regrowth for the result to be considered satisfactory. The only troublesome complication was the development of a localized acneform eruption in 5/28 patients (18%) between the ages of 15 and 25 years. None of the patients developed clinical evidence of systemic absorption.
Remarks on the Treatment of Pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Haim S. , Shafrir A.
Published: October 2009

Our experience with pemphigus vulgaris consists of 35 cases. The majority are Jews of Eastern European origin, with an average age of 49.3 years. A daily 40–60 mg of prednisone was effective to initiate remission in most of the cases. Substitution of prednisone by an equivalent dose of triamcinolone avoided further increasing in the dose in 11 of 14 cases. Other regimens of treatment, such as alternate-day therapy, addition of estrogen and of methotrexate, were utilized in some of the patients. They were effective in only a part of the cases and after the disease has been held in remission by the conventional daily therapy. Our data shows that it is adviseable to make allowances for individual reactions on determining the level of initial dosages and when utilizing the other modalities of treatment.
Vitiligo – Response to 0.2 % Betamethasone 17-Valerate in Flexible Collodion
Authors: Kandil E.
Published: October 2009

Sixty three cases of vitiligo with multiple vitiliginous patches (VPs), were selected for treatment with topical application of 0.2% of betamethasone 17-valerate in flexible collodion. All cases, excepting ten, responded more or less satisfactorily; while complete cure has been achieved in those cases over the face and neck, other VPs responded variably.
Circadian Blood Pressure Classification Scheme and the Health of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Agarwal Rajiv , Kariyanna Shathabish S. , Light Robert P.
Published: October 2009

Background: In health, a sinusoidal rhythm is observed in systolic blood pressure (BP) that peaks (acrophase) during the waking hours (in-phase), but in those with chronic kidney disease (CKD) the acrophase is often observed during sleeping hours (out-of-phase). Yet in others the amplitude of the variation may be so blunted that acrophase may not be definable (phase-less). Circadian rhythms in systolic BP are often described by the dichotomous dipper classification but may not be adequate to fully characterize derangements in cyclical variation in BP. Methods: To compare classification of circadian BP variation by phase-based classification to dipper-status we examined the cross-sectional relationship of these classification patterns to several markers of health such as health-related quality of life (Kidney Disease Quality of Life Survey, KDQOL) and physical activity (actigraphy over 2 weeks). We also assessed the relationship of circadian BP variation with circadian variation in urine electrolyte and albumin excretion rates. Results: Among 103 veterans with CKD (97% men, age 69, diabetes mellitus 30%, eGFR 38.8 ml/min/1.73 m2) no differences were seen between dippers and non-dippers (n = 77, 75%) in eGFR, urinary Na and Cl excretion rates, or KDQOL. However, non-dippers had lower levels of physical activity and greater albuminuria compared to dippers. The same patients were classified to be in-phase (n = 36, 35%), phase-less (n = 19, 18%) or out-of-phase (n = 48, 47%). Patients in-phase had a higher eGFR and somewhat surprisingly also had the highest Na and Cl excretion rates compared to others. Those with out-of-phase systolic BP had the lowest physical composite score on KDQOL, the lowest level of physical activity, and the greatest amount of albuminuria. Conclusions: Among patients with CKD, circadian BP profile described by either dipper-based or phase-based classification is related to the level of physical activity and the severity of kidney damage. The circadian BP profile is related to overall health and nutritional intake only when using the phase-based classification. The value of these classification schemes to profile circadian BP will require longitudinal studies.
Ultrastructural Analyses of Deciduous Teeth Affected by Hypocalcified Amelogenesis Imperfecta from a Family with a Novel Y458X FAM83H Nonsense Mutation
Authors: El-Sayed W. , Shore R.C. , Parry D.A. , Inglehearn C.F. , Mighell A.J.
Published: October 2009

Background: Nonsense mutations in FAM83H are a recently described underlying cause of autosomal dominant (AD) hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta (AI). Objective: This study aims to report a novel c.1374C>A p.Y458X nonsense mutation and describe the associated ultrastructural phenotype of deciduous teeth. Methods: A family of European origin from the Iberian Peninsula with AD-inherited AI was ascertained. Family members were assessed through clinical examination and supporting investigations. Naturally exfoliated deciduous teeth from 2 siblings were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and transverse microradiography (TMR). Results: On clinical and radiographic investigation the appearances of the affected deciduous and permanent teeth were consistent with hypocalcified AI with small focal areas of more normal looking enamel. DNA sequencing identified a novel c.1374C>A p.Y458X FAM83H nonsense mutation in affected, but not in either unaffected family members or unrelated controls. Exfoliated teeth were characterised by substantial post-eruptive enamel loss on gross examination. Irregular, poor quality enamel prisms were observed on SEM. These were coated in amorphous material. TMR and EDX confirmed reduced mineral and increased organic content in enamel, respectively. Conclusions:FAM83H nonsense mutations have recently been recognised as a cause of AD hypocalcified AI. We report a novel nonsense FAM83H mutation and describe the associated preliminary ultrastructural phenotype in deciduous teeth. This is characterised by poorly formed enamel rods with inappropriate retention of amorphous material, which is likely to represent retained organic matrix that contributes to the overall hypomineralised phenotype.
From Annotator Agreement to Noise Models
Authors: Beigman Klebanov Beata , Beigman Eyal
Published: October 2009

This article discusses the transition from annotated data to a gold standard, that is, a subset that is sufficiently noise-free with high confidence. Unless appropriately reinterpreted, agreement coefficients do not indicate the quality of the data set as a benchmarking resource: High overall agreement is neither sufficient nor necessary to distill some amount of highly reliable data from the annotated material. A mathematical framework is developed that allows estimation of the noise level of the agreed subset of annotated data, which helps promote cautious benchmarking.
Morphological and molecular characterisation of Pratylenchus araucensis n. sp. (Pratylenchidae), a root-lesion nematode associated with Musa plants in Colombia
Authors: Múnera Gladis E. , Bert Wim , Decraemer Wilfrida
Published: October 2009

Pratylenchus araucensis n. sp., a root-lesion nematode from Musa plants in
Colombia, is described and illustrated. The new species is characterised by
a combination of the following features: female small to medium sized
(376-511 μm) with slender body, lip region with two lip annuli, sometimes an
incomplete third annulus, face view characterised by complete fusion of the
lip sectors to each other and to oral disc, resulting in a plain and smooth
face, anterior surface of the oral disc may be low-conical or flat with
rounded edges, short and robust stylet (mean 15.3 μm), short pharyngeal
glands (mean 24.2 μm), lateral field with four parallel, non-equidistant
lines and middle ridge narrower than outer ones, outer lines with partial
areolation and lines converging posterior to the phasmid which is located at
mid-tail, vulva located at 78% of total body length and lips well developed,
often protruding, posterior uterine sac short (mean 18.1 μm), oval to
slightly round spermatheca filled with round sperm, tail clearly conoid in
half of population but subcylindrical (25%) or continuous grading from
conical to subcylindrical in rest of population, tail terminus variable in
shape, mostly conical rounded or rounded; males abundant, spicule 19 μm
long. The sequence comparison of the D2D3 rDNA expansion region clearly
separates in different clades the new species from P. jaehni, P. loosi and
P. coffeae, the only three described species of Pratylenchus that also
reproduce by amphimixis and which have lip regions with two lip annuli and a
smooth face. Clear autapomorphic characters were present in the D2D3
expansion region of 28S rDNA in all specimens analysed and for both clades
of P. araucensis n. sp. and its sister species P. jaehni.
Rapid decline of PCR amplification from genomic extracts of DESS-preserved, slide-mounted nematodes
Authors: Bik Holly M. , Hawkins Lawrence E. , Hughes J. Alan , Lambshead John D.
Published: October 2009

Many studies use integrative methods to study both morphology and gene
sequences of nematode species, yet there is little evidence to indicate the
optimum criteria for merging taxonomic and molecular protocols. Preliminary
evidence suggests that standard methods of desiccation and slide mounting
nematode specimens in glycerin can sporadically result in degradation of
genomic DNA. A time series experiment was constructed in order to assess
whether this degradation of genomic DNA could be recorded and quantified.
Two groups of nematode specimens were desiccated, mounted on slides, and
stored at either 4°C or at room temperature for specified time intervals.
Genomic DNA was extracted and PCR was conducted to amplify a section of the
18S rRNA gene at each time point. The resulting gel photographs were used to
record the outcome of PCR and quantify the strength of amplification if
successful. Results from slide-mounted specimens were compared to PCR
products derived from unmounted nematodes extracted directly from the
preservative solution at specified time intervals. The desiccation and slide
mounting process appears to reduce overall band intensity after 1 day in
slide mounts. Unmounted specimens consistently exhibit high success rates of
PCR and a high overall DNA content per band at all time points, whereas
slide-mounted nematodes show a decrease in the number of successful PCRs and
weakening band intensity as time progresses. Results clearly indicate a
steady degradation of genomic DNA in nematodes stored in slide mounts for
more than 2 weeks, whereas unmounted specimens extracted from preservative
solution showed no decline in PCR success or quality. We suggest a maximum
storage period of 2 weeks on slides if mounted nematodes are to be used for
molecular analyses.
Nematicidal activity of compounds extracted from medicinal plants against the pine wood nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Authors: Nguyen Dang-Minh-Chanh , Nguyen Van-Nam , Seo Dong-Jun , Park Ro-Dong , Jung Woo-Jin
Published: October 2009

To investigate in vitro nematicidal activity against the pine wood nematode,
Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, plant methanolic extracts were obtained from 26
medicinal plants and herbs in Vietnam. Of the plant extracts tested, a 10 mg
ml−1 concentration of Cinnamomum cassia bark extract showed the highest
level of nematicidal activity against juvenile and adult B. xylophilus after
treatment for 7 h. The remainder of the plant extracts had little or no
effect on juveniles or adults. Four solvents, n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl
acetate and n-butanol, were used initially to partition the compounds
obtained from C. cassia extracts. The compound (5 mg ml−1) in the n-hexane
fraction showed the highest nematicidal activity at 60 min after treatment.
Compounds III and IV were then separated from the n-hexane fraction using
silica gel plates. These compounds showed very similar activity against the
pine wood nematode. However, treatment with different concentrations of
these compounds resulted in a significant difference in their effects on the
mortality of the pine wood nematode, with greater concentrations leading to
increased mortality after the same exposure time. Overall, treatment with 3
mg ml−1 of compounds III and IV resulted in greater than 95% mortality
against juvenile and adult B. xylophilus at 50 min after treatment.
Intestine ultrastructure of the facultative parasite Halicephalobus gingivalis (Nematoda: Panagrolaimidae)
Authors: Fonderie Pamela , Willems Maxime , Bert Wim , Houthoofd Wouter , Steel Hanne , Claeys Myriam , Borgonie Gaëtan
Published: October 2009

Halicephalobus gingivalis, classified as a free-living nematode, is a known
facultative parasite of horses, zebras and humans. However, detailed
information concerning its internal morphology is lacking, especially in
relation to possible adaptations to its lifestyle as a facultative parasite.
The research presented here uses TEM and PI staining to analyse the
morphology of the intestine of H. gingivalis. Specimens cultured under
different conditions were included to determine if differences in
ultrastructure are induced by culturing method. TEM analysis revealed that
the intestinal tract comprises a single layer of cells in which nine pairs
of nuclei can be distinguished. Further, unusual dichotomously and
trichotomously branched microvilli were observed next to finger-like
cylindrical microvilli, the latter being the most commonly described form in
nematodes. Finally, three different types of secretion vesicles, i.e.,
spherical (type I), thread-like (type II) and enlarged globular (type III),
occurred independently from each other along the intestinal tract. The
relationship of morphological adaptations of the microvilli to parasitism in
nematodes is discussed.
A phylogenetic tree of nematodes based on about 1200 full-length small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences
Authors: van Megen Hanny , van den Elsen Sven , Holterman Martijn , Karssen Gerrit , Mooyman Paul , Bongers Tom , Holovachov Oleksandr , Bakker Jaap , Helder Johannes
Published: October 2009

As a result of the scarcity of informative morphological and anatomical
characters, nematode systematics have always been volatile. Differences in
the appreciation of these characters have resulted in numerous
classifications and this greatly confuses scientific communication. An
advantage of the use of molecular data is that it allows for an enormous
expansion of the number of characters. Here we present a phylogenetic tree
based on 1215 small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences (ca 1700 bp each)
covering a wide range of nematode taxa. Of the 19 nematode orders mentioned
by De Ley et al. (2006) 15 are represented here. Compared with Holterman et
al. (2006) the number of taxa analysed has been tripled. This did not result
in major changes in the clade subdivision of the phylum, although a decrease
in the number of well supported nodes was observed. Especially at the family
level and below we observed a considerable congruence between morphology and
ribosomal DNA-based nematode systematics and, in case of discrepancies,
morphological or anatomical support could be found for the alternative
grouping in most instances. The extensiveness of convergent evolution is one
of the most striking phenomena observed in the phylogenetic tree presented
here – it is hard to find a morphological, ecological or biological
characteristic that has not arisen at least twice during nematode evolution.
Convergent evolution appears to be an important additional explanation for
the seemingly persistent volatility of nematode systematics.
Moisture Degradation of Cyanate Ester/S2 Glass Composite Insulation Systems
Authors: Morgan Bradley , Madhukar Madhu , Walsh Jennifer , Hooker Matthew , Grandlienard Samuel
Published: October 2009

The fusion devices currently being developed present several challenges for magnet designers. One challenge lies within the electrical insulation, which must be able to withstand extreme temperatures, large shear and compressive stresses, high operating voltages, and high levels of incident radiation. To address the need for better performing insulation systems, Composite Technology Development (CTD), Inc. has developed CTD-403, a cyanate ester resin with increased radiation resistance, ease of processing and fabrication, low moisture absorption characteristics, and high mechanical and electrical strength at cryogenic and elevated temperatures. The moisture absorption trends of CTD-403/S2 glass composite insulation were studied. The effects of humidity exposure on interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), compressive strength, dielectric strength, and glass transition temperature were also studied. The saturation level of the insulation was seen to increase with the relative humidity of the aging environment. Fickian behavior was seen at room temperatures below 97% relative humidity exposure. Non-Fickian behavior was seen at elevated temperatures. Saturation levels after 6 months exposure were seen to be below typical epoxy-based insulation systems, averaging 0.5% weight gain. Degradation of mechanical and electrical properties was seen with increased humidity exposure and moisture absorption. ILSS showed an average retention rate of 75% after 6 months exposure. The compressive strength showed no decrease after 6 months exposure at room temperature, and show retention rates greater than 90% at 75°C/79% RH. An average dielectric strength of 98.6 kV/mm was seen for all specimens at room temperature (above 90% retention) after 6 months exposure.
Acoustic Emission Characteristics of Mode I Delamination in Glass/Polyester Composites
Authors: Oskouei Amir Refahi , Ahmadi Mehdi
Published: October 2009

This article proposes an experimental study on the mode I interlaminar fracture of glass/polyester composites by using acoustic emission (AE) to analyze the damage evolution and evaluate the interlaminar performance of polymeric composites. A delamination process simulated with a double cantilever beam in opening mode (Mode I) coupled with an AE technique has been employed. The microscopic observation (scanning electron microscopy) is used to determine the correlation between different fracture mechanisms and their corresponding AE signal frequency content. Selected emissions are classified as matrix cracking, fiber breakage, or interface processes (fiber—matrix debonding) based on their total power in defined frequency intervals of the spectral power density. A correlation was established between the mechanical energy release rate and the AE energy rate. Analysis in the frequency domain shows AE parameters are powerful indicators of the intensity of the damage.
Recognition, Expression, and Understanding Facial Expressions of Emotion in Adolescents With Nonverbal and General Learning Disabilities
Authors: Bloom Elana , Heath Nancy
Published: October 2009

Children with nonverbal learning disabilities (NVLD) have been found to be worse at recognizing facial expressions than children with verbal learning disabilities (LD) and without LD. However, little research has been done with adolescents. In addition, expressing and understanding facial expressions is yet to be studied among adolescents with LD subtypes. This study examined abilities of adolescents with NVLD, with general learning disabilities (GLD), and without LD to recognize, express, and understand facial expressions of emotion. Adolescents were grouped into those with NVLD, with GLD, and without LD using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Third Edition (short form) and Wide Range Achievement Test—Third Edition. The adolescents completed neuropsychological, recognition, expression, and understanding measures. It is intriguing that the GLD group was significantly less accurate at recognizing and understanding facial expressions compared with the NVLD and NLD groups, who did not differ. Implications are explored with regard to the need to consider possible deficits in recognition and understanding of emotion in adolescents with LD in schools.
The Roles of the Toxicologic Pathologist in Cancer Research
Authors: Ward Jerrold M.
Published: October 2009

Cancer in an important disease throughout the world and a major cause of death in both humans and animals. Pathologists play a critical role in cancer research and in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of human and animal cancers. They participate in basic and translational research in laboratories of colleges and universities, other research institutes, government research and regulatory agencies, and in the biotech, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. This introductory review to the 2009 STP Symposium on Cancer will identify and discuss the major roles of pathologists in cancer research.
Effect of preoperative atorvastatin therapy on paraoxonase activity and oxidative stress after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Kurban Sevil , Mehmetoglu Idris , Ege Erdal
Published: October 2009

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of preoperative atorvastatin therapy on oxidative stress in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients. Forty patients who underwent elective CABG were enrolled into the study. Of these patients, 20 received atorvastatin (Group I) for 15 days prior to surgery and 20 patients did not use any antihyperlipidemic agents preoperatively (Group II). Serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1) and arylesterase activities, and total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) were measured before surgery and at 1, 6 and 24 hours after the operation. Paraoxonase 1 and arylesterase activities (p<0.001) and TAS levels (p<0.001 for 1st hour and p<0.05 for 6th hour) in Group II were significantly reduced at the 1 st and 6th hours after the operation, whereas the activities of the enzymes (p<0.01) and TAS levels (p<0.05) were significantly reduced only at the 1st hour after the operation in Group I. The total oxidant status of both groups was significantly increased at the 1 st hour after operation (p<0.05 for Group I and p<0.01 for Group II). In conclusion, 15 days of preoperative atorvastatin therapy does not significantly change either the serum PON1 activity or the oxidative stress after CABG.
Inclusive Education in Botswana: The Perceptions of School Teachers
Authors: Chhabra Simmi , Srivastava Rama , Srivastava Ishaan
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this study was to identify the attitudes and concerns of teachers toward the inclusion of students with disabilities in the general classroom. The findings indicate that teachers in Botswana have somewhat negative attitudes with some concern about inclusive education. Significant correlation was observed between attitudes and concerns ( r = .323). The results also reveal that many regular teachers feel unprepared and fearful to work with learners with disabilities in regular classes and so display frustration, anger, and negative attitudes toward inclusive education because they believe that it could lead to lower academic standards.
Women’s Accounts of Their Decision to Quit Taking Antidepressants
Authors: McMullen Linda M. , Herman Jennifer
Published: October 2009

Over the past 15 years, the rates at which antidepressants are prescribed have increased dramatically. Adherence, however, is often low and considered to be problematic. Using a discursive approach to analyzing interviews with six Canadian women who chose unilaterally to discontinue their use of antidepressants, we focus on three rhetorical strategies used to justify their actions: (a) referencing the actual or potential effects of antidepressants, (b) positioning lay knowledge as superior to expert medical knowledge, and (c) denigrating medical authorities. We argue that these women drew on the responsible-use-of-drugs framework as a way of positioning themselves against potential charges of having engaged in an irrational act.
An Integrated Set of Exercises for Increasing Student Awareness of Issues Facing Female Expatriates
Authors: Lovelace Kathi J. , Yunhyung Chung
Published: October 2009

Opportunities for expatriate assignments are increasing and many students are interested in gaining international work experience. However, females are underrepresented in this expatriate applicant pool. This is because organizational members often perceive that female expatriates would be less successful than male counterparts and thereby females are less preferable for foreign assignments. To increase awareness of this discrepancy and teach effective human resource strategies for increasing the success of both male and female expatriates, a lecturette is offered with a set of integrated exercises, including a Jeopardy activity, for addressing facts and myths about female expatriates, cultural influences affecting global assignments, human resource practices and implications, and strategies for expatriate success.
Feed-forward Control of a MIMO System for a Large-size and Lightweight Isolation Table
Authors: Watanabe T. , Watanabe D. , Naruke M. , Seto K.
Published: October 2009

In this paper we propose a design method for a three-dimensional active isolation system with a low-stiffness isolation table assumed to be a large-size, lightweight isolation system. The lightweight, large-size isolation tables have been designed to be flexible. Owing to this, multi-modal vibrations appeared on the isolation table in the lower-frequency region. Therefore, a control system for considering multi-modal vibrations should be developed. We constructed a five-degree-of-freedom lumped model of the isolation table using a reduced-order physical-modeling method that is effective for controlling multi-modal vibrations. In the controller design, the performance of vibration control is obtained using a feedback controller designed using the linear—quadratic (LQ) control theory. Moreover, a feed-forward controller for a multi-input multi-output system has been added in order to obtain a high-isolation performance. Thus, a two-degree-of-freedom controller combined with LQ feed-forward controllers is designed. The usefulness of the proposed modeling method and controller are confirmed through numerical simulations and experimental results.
Realization of a Zero-compliance System by Using Displacement Cancellation Control
Authors: Mizuno Takeshi , Furushima Takehiko , Ishino Yuji , Takasaki Masaya
Published: October 2009

A control method for achieving zero compliance to direct disturbance is proposed for a vibration isolation system. The structure of the proposed zero-compliance system is as follows. A middle mass is suspended by a spring from the base. The isolation table is suspended and moved by a linear actuator that is fixed to the middle mass. When direct disturbance acts on the isolation table, the middle mass begins to move in the same direction as the disturbance. The actuator operates to move the isolation table in the opposite direction to cancel the displacement of the middle mass to the base. To verify the effectiveness of this principle, a single-axis apparatus was fabricated. In this apparatus, the isolation table and the middle mass are guided to move horizontally to study characteristics without the influence of gravity. A voice coil motor (VCM) is installed between the isolation table and the middle mass, and integral—proportional—derivative (I-PD) control is implemented to achieve displacement cancellation control. Another VCM is installed between the middle mass and the base, and PD control is implemented for realizing the prescribed stiffness and damping. The efficacy of the designed control system is confirmed experimentally.
Stability Analysis of a Flexible Spinning and Precessing Rotor with Non-symmetric Shaft
Authors: Ghosh R. , Saha A. , Nandi A. , Neogy S.
Published: October 2009

The present work deals with stability analysis of a spinning non-symmetric shaft with a non-central disk mounted on a rotating (precessing) base, where the spin axis and the precession axis intersect at right angles. The nutation speed is zero and the spin and precession speeds are considered to be uniform. The motion of the rotor is such that it undergoes small elastic deformation superposed on rigid body rotation. The shaft-disk system is assumed to be axially and torsionally stiff. A four-degree- of-freedom model is considered for the stability analysis. A non-symmetric shaft (e.g., shaft with rectangular or elliptic cross-section, shaft with a keyway, cracked shaft etc.) of a rotor has dissimilar stiffness in two perpendicular transverse planes. The governing equations for such a rotor are expressed in the precessing but non-spinning frame. Since the governing equations of motion are found to have periodic stiffness terms, a variant of Hill’s method is adopted for stability analysis. The stability borderlines are constructed with respect to the spin speed and precession speed.
The Relationships Between Feelings of Satisfaction and Burden With Respect to Activity and Social Support Among Health Promotion Volunteers in Japan
Authors: Murayama Hiroshi , Taguchi Atsuko , Murashima Sachiyo
Published: October 2009

Health promotion volunteers (HPVs) working to promote community health in Japan feel both satisfaction and burden with their community engagement activities. This study examined the relationship between their satisfaction and burden toward their activities and social support. A mail-in self-check questionnaire survey was distributed to 604 HPVs in Japan in September 2005. Multiple regression analysis showed that high “activity attachment” was associated with more support from family, colleagues, and public health nurses; high “personal benefit” was associated with more support from colleagues and public health nurses. It was also found that low “burden on everyday life” was associated with more support from family and colleagues and that low “psychological burden” was associated with more support from colleagues and community members. It became clear that social support from various sources was positively related to HPVs’ satisfaction and negatively related to HPVs’ burden with their activities. To encourage HPV activities, it is important to consider what kinds of social support would be most useful to increase the satisfaction and reduce the burden felt by HPVs.
Writing across the Borders of the Self
Authors: Bridger Barbara
Published: October 2009

The aim of this article is to demonstrate a methodology that ‘writes across’ the separation (border?) between theory and practice. It refers to French feminist writers of the 1970s and 1980s, often categorized under the heading of ‘écriture féminine’, who were concerned with how language operates and with the relationship between language and the formation of the self. The article consists of a short preface introducing a piece of autobiographical writing driving home(3) . The piece brings into collision incidents, objects and time frames in an attempt to dissolve the borders between fact and fiction, personal and impersonal, private and public, poetic writing and analysis. In the act of writing driving home(3) the author also attempts to generate knowledge. driving home (3) searches within the anecdotal and autobiographical for methodological indicators. The how and why of the author’s writing practice run across, over and around each other, acting as short and inconclusive pathways within the investigative structure of the whole.