bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bullous Dermatosis Associated with Latent Diabetes
Authors: Dobozy A. , Husz S. , Schneider I. , Szabó Éva
Published: October 2009

A bullous dermatosis leaving brownish pigmented scar formation could be observed on the legs of a female patient suffering from latent diabetes. The immunofluorescence method failed to demonstrate specific immunoglobulin deposition of the skin. Histologically, subepidermal localization of the vesicles and diabetic angiopathy of dermic vessels could be seen. It is concluded that the bullous dermatosis of diabetics represents a special form of diabetic dermopathy.
Differentiation and Keratinization of Fetal Rat Skin
Authors: Bauer F.W. , Kuyper Ch.M.A.
Published: October 2009

(1) Fetal rat skin of 17-day-old embryos was cultured up to 8 days in vitro.(2) Within 3–4 days a complete adult epidermis was formed in vitro. The stages that lead to this formation and the time necessary for it were slightly different in vitro and in vivo. No skin adnexa were formed. (3) Actinomycin D (at 0.02 μg/ml) and puromycin (at 0.1 μg/ml) failed to inhibit the differentiation and the morphological effect of it: i.e. stratum corneum formation. At higher doses a total degeneration of the stratum corneum occurred. (4) It was clear from the incorporation experiments with 3H-thymidine that a labelled component released from DNA breakdown in the stratum granulosum was re-used for DNA synthesis in the nuclei of the basal cell layer.
Larva currens (migrans) Caused by Strongyloides stercoralis
Authors: Dqeglas H.M.G. , ten Berg J.A.
Published: October 2009

A 62-year-old missionary sister suffered from abdominal pains and diarrhoea since she left the Congo in 1939. For the last 20 years she also had recurrent attacks of itching during which she showed rapidly migrating linear urticarial weals on the skin of the abdomen and thighs. After she received prednisone, her skin lesions became generalized and her stools, which had been negative for worms, showed rhabditiform larvae of Strongyloides stercoralis. Eosinophilia was an irregular finding in this patient. She improved rapidly after two courses of thiabendazole.
Disseminate and Recurrent Infundibulo-Folliculitis
Authors: Kaidbey K.H. , Farah F.S. , Matta M.T.
Published: October 2009

The clinical and histopathological features of disseminate and recurrent infundibulo-folliculitis are described in 2 patients. The lesions are confined to the trunk and consist of discrete, small, follicular papules. The condition is self-limited but recurrent, and histologically characterized by an infundibular folliculitis. The deposition of glycogen in the infundibular and perifollicular epithelium is reported.
Acrokeratosis Verruciformis: Malignant Transformation
Authors: Dogliotti M. , Schmaman A.
Published: October 2009

A case of acrokeratosis verruciformis in which squamous carcinoma occurred is described. No previous report of this occurrence could be found. The authors consider acrokeratosis verruciformis as a distinctive disease and not a variation of Darier’s disease.
Additives, Vehicles and Active Drugs of Topical Medicaments as Causes of Delayed-Type Allergic Dermatitis
Authors: Meneghini C.L. , Rantuccio F. , Lomuto M.
Published: October 2009

Medicament-induced skin diseases accounted for 6.8% of 14,400 cases of skin diseases observed between 1967 and 1970. In only 0.4% of the patients was a non-allergic medicament contact dermatitis present. The remaining 6.4% of the patients had an allergic medicament eruption; in 5% this was due to an allergic contact dermatitis, in the remaining 1.4% immediate-type allergic reactions were involved. The incidence of allergic contact sensitivity in a group of eczematous patients was recorded for substances which can be used as constituents of vehicles in topical medicaments or as active drugs1. This included only 1 base, wool alcohol, but several ‘additives’. By patch-testing 50 healthy volunteers the highest non-irritant concentration of a number of substances, which can be used as constituents of topical medicaments, was ascertained. These concentrations are compared with the concentrations commonly in use in ready-made preparations available in Italy.
Über die Eignung von Transplantationsbedingungen des AMel-3-Hamster-Melanoms zur Beurteilung von Einflüssen auf das Tumorwachstum
Authors: Wohlrab W. , Peker J.
Published: October 2009

To obtain optimal test conditions the growth velocities of the amelanotic hamster melanoma, AMel 3 Fortner, are compared with the transplantated cell numbers. The tumor is transplantated almost quantitatively as a definite cell suspension and weighed after constant time. Within 14 days, alterations of growth velocity are both most evident and least errant at about 106 transplantated cells.
Morphometric Evaluation of Skin Structures by Stereologic Methods
Authors: Sauter Lilianna S. , Weibel E.R.
Published: October 2009

A method is presented for the volumetric analysis of skin structures using simple point-counting principles of stereology. The anisotropic structure of skin requires particular attention in sampling microscopic fields for measurement. This method is applied to a preliminary study of skin specimens from male rats treated with parenteral testosterone; the volume of hair follicles was found to be significantly reduced to 1/3 of the control value.
Studies on the Attraction of Mosquitoes to Insect-Allergic Patients after Desensitization and to Psoriatic Patients
Authors: Akuamoa C.O.
Published: October 2009

Two groups of patients were tested with healthy controls for their attraction to mosquitoes. The first group consisted of 12 patients who were desensitized against stings of hymenoptera, the second group of 10 patients suffering from psoriasis. Of the desensitized patients, one third showed a lower attraction to mosquitoes than any of the controls. Nine out of 10 patients suffering from psoriasis had a lower attraction than any of the controls.
Retinoic Acid in the Treatment of Lichen Planus
Authors: Günther S.
Published: October 2009

Five patients with lichen planus were treated with retinoic acid, and all 5 patients showed almost complete resolution of skin lesions within 1 month. In 4 of the cases treatment started 2–3 months after the beginning of the disease. With retinoic acid by mouth, relief of pruritus and flattening of papules was achieved leaving only residual pigmentation. Hyperkeratotic lesions improved only when retinoic acid was applied topically. The effects of treatment on the duration of the disease are discussed.
Etude comparative du comportement de la peau du cobaye en présence d’un ether ou d’un ester de polyéthylèneglycol
Authors: Delacrétaz J. , Etter J.-C. , Emch M.
Published: October 2009

The application to guinea-pig’s skin of an ester of polyethyleneglycol is much better tolerated than that of the corresponding ether. With endodermal injection, on the other hand, both preparations provoke inflammatory reactions. The authors discuss the interpretation of these facts.
Histotopochemische Untersuchung über die Reaktion klinisch unbefallener Psoriatikerhaut auf Hornschichtabrisse
Authors: Wohlrab W. , Marculescu Joan , Zaumseil R.P.
Published: October 2009

The course of the epidermal regeneration after stripping of the corneal layer was comparatively investigated by means of the distribution and activity of various enzymes in clinically normal psoriatic skin and normal skin. The following results were obtained: (1) At first clinically healthy psoriatic skin and normal skin behave principally uniform. (2)The observed augmentation of the activity of various enzymes in psoriatic skin free from specific lesions is so much increased that it essentially corresponds to the condition of the psoriatic lesion although to a different intensity. (3) Differences in the reproduction of the corneal layer were observed. (4) The possible consequences of these findings for the course of the psoriatic reaction are discussed.
Urinary Hydroxyproline in Psoriasis
Authors: Uitto J. , Hannuksela M.
Published: October 2009

Urinary excretion of total hydroxyproline was determined in 153 cases of active psoriasis. Five of the patients had slightly increased and 37 had decreased values of hydroxyproline, but the patients with psoriasis as a group did not significantly differ from the controls. The results suggest that urinary hydroxyproline determination has no value in the diagnosis or clinical evaluation of the disease activity in psoriasis.
Lipoid Proteinosis in South Africa
Authors: Heyl T.
Published: October 2009

A genealogical study of lipoid proteinosis indicates that most, if not all, South African patients are probably descendants of a brother and sister, Jacob and Elsje Cloete, who settled in the Cape early in the latter half of the 17th century. It is suggested that a similar genealogical study be undertaken of patients in other countries to see whether more of them could be traced to the same family.
Antipsoriatic Activity of Retinoic Acid (Vitamin A Acid)
Authors: Fredriksson T.
Published: October 2009

Antipsoriatic response to topical administration of 0.1- and 0.3-percent retinoic acid (vitamin A acid) has been determined in a single blind study as compared with placebo and crude coal tar. Forty consecutive patients with chronic psoriasis were included in the study. Both concentrations of retinoic acid and crude coal tar were significantly more effective than placebo following 2 weeks of application, and 0.3-percent retinoic acid was more effective than crude coal tar. Irritation in the form of erythema was noted with the 0.3-percent concentration of retinoic acid.
Zur antidepressiven Therapie bei der atopischen konstitutionellen Neurodermitis
Authors: Borelli S. , Etter H.
Published: October 2009

The effect of a total daily dose of three capsules of Limbitrol (each capsule containing 12.5 mg of Amitriptyline and 5 mg of Chlordiazepoxide) upon neurodermatitis in atopic subjects was assessed, during a double-blind crossover trial. Limbitrol and identically looking placebo capsules were given to 95 patients, each treatment period lasting for 12 days. Objective assessments were made of the patients’ skin condition and a checklist of 19 symptoms was used for the assessment and grading of the patients responses. All patients had been admitted for treatment and observation to a hospital in Davos (altitude 5140 feet). Limbitrol showed itself to be therapeutically superior in the majority of patients during the early stages of the patients’ stay in hospital but did not produce subsequently any additional benefit beyond the improvement attributed to the beneficial effects of being in hospital at a high altitude and to local therapy.
Observations concernant l’état de la phosphoglucose-isomérase sérique dans certaines dermatoses
Authors: Ba? da? noiu Al. , Haisuc M.
Published: October 2009

By means of the Slein’s method the serum phosphoglucoseisomerase (PGI) was investigated in 146 cases of various dermatoses. In comparison with the values obtained in 50 healthy subjects, PGI was increased in patients suffering from pemphigus vulgaris, legs angiodermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, urticaria and allergic erythemas. The PGI augmentation was smaller in scleroderma and practically without modifications in chronic lupus erythematosus.
Der Aussagewert der mikrobiologischen Diagnostik bei der Hauttuberkulose
Authors: Hottenrott G. , Sprössig M. , Cramer H.J. , Krusch U.
Published: October 2009

Excision materials and swabs of skin lesions were microbiologically examined of 178 patients with cutaneous diseases which could be caused by mycobacteria, inclusive of such dermatoses in which you can find a specific granulation tissue in histological examination. Among the clinically as tuberculosis of skin finally diagnosed cases 43 patients showed optimal conditions of investigation. In those cases the proof of mycobacteria succeeded 38 times. Because of the effective profit the microbiological examination must be used for the diagnosis of the tuberculosis of skin in addition to the clinical and histological examination. Possibilities to execute the bacteriological investigation optimally are being described.
Beobachtungen zum Problem der Lokalbehandlung mit Kortikosteroiden
Authors: Laetsch C.
Published: October 2009

A 0.1% Dexamethasone ointment was found in a double blind controlled trial to be therapeutically superior to Locacorten (Ciba) in the treatment of eczema. It was not effective against psoriasis even under occlusive dressings. Corticosteroid applications produce local suppressions of the immune mechanism giving rise to viral infections (molluscum contagiosum, viral warts), but in particular to fungal infections; this is common with prolonged treatment of foot eczema. Subsequent anti-fungal therapy on its own, cleared all skin lesions.
Bioptische und serologische Untersuchungen zur Enteropathie bei Dermatitis herpetiformis Duhring
Authors: Graber W. , Laissue J.L.
Published: October 2009

Jejunal biopsies carried out on 9 patients with histologically proved Dermatitis herpetiformis showed in 6 changes corresponding to those found in idiopathic steatorrhoea. In contrast to patients with idiopathic steatorrhoea (coeliac disease) neither precipitating nor complement fixing antibodies against gliadin were found in the sera of the 11 patients with Dermatitis herpetiformis.
Sensitization to Phenylacetaldehyde
Authors: Fregert S.
Published: October 2009

Of 275 patients with eczema and tested routinely with phenylacetaldehyde, 4 reacted positively. In addition, 3 became sensitized by testing. Cross-sensitivity to closely related substances could not be demonstrated. Gaschromatography showed that the substance used was pure. Since phenylacetaldehyde appears to be a potent sensitizer, it must be questioned whether it should be used in the manufacture of perfumes and flavouring agents.
Torulosis of the Skin
Authors: Wajdi Kanan M.
Published: October 2009

A case of cutaneous torulosis is reported in an old Kuwaiti male bedouin who also had diabetes mellitus and chronic lymphatic leukaemia. Review of the literature emphasizes the association of torulosis in a large number of cases with benign and malignant conditions of the reticuloendothelial system and other causes of defective cell-mediated immune responses.
Allopurinol in Psoriasis
Authors: Viglioglia P.A. , Plante G.E. , Viglioglia J. , Saraceno E.F.
Published: October 2009

We have tried Allopurinol in the treatment of psoriasis, without having any knowledge of previous publications in this respect. The antigouty drug, which acts inhibiting the xanthine oxidase has proved excellent in 50%, good in 34% and moderate in 16% of the cases treated, independent of the oldness of the process. This study constitutes a new step in the metabolic pathogenesis of psoriasis which has already been the motive of other investigatory works by the authors.
The Effect of a Standardized ‘Skin Insult’ on Transepidermal Water Loss from Clinically Resolved Dermatitic Skin
Authors: Raffle E.J. , Shahidullah M.
Published: October 2009

A method of producing a standard amount of primary irritant skin damage or ‘skin insult’ consisting of the use of a 6% solution of Triethanolamine Lauryl Sulphate in a modification of Vermeer’s washing simulator is described. In 22 normal skin sites the mean test response (viz. the difference in TWL before and after applying the skin insult) was 0.056 mg/cm2/h. In a group of 22 patients with contact dermatitis which had been clinically resolved for periods varying from 1 week to 1 year the mean test response was 0.67 mg/cm2/h in the first month after clinical resolution. The raised values in the early weeks following clinical resolution fell to normal with the passage of time, and this period varied from 2–3 months in different subjects. Normal test responses were found after 6 months and a year. It is considered that this test may represent a test of the quality of the water barrier in newly rejuvenated epidermis.
A Study of Melanocytes in the Normal Skin Surrounding Malignant Melanomata
Authors: Wong C.K.
Published: October 2009

The melanocytes situated in the skin at a distance of 5 cm from the edge of the tumour in 12 cases of malignant melanoma were studied both quantitatively and morphologically. Dopa reaction showed in 7 out of the 12 cases an increase in the number of melanocytes compared with normal figures. In certain cases some of the melanocytes showed bizarre morphological appearances and the interpretation of this is discussed.
Thermal Induced Sweating in Tattooed Skin
Authors: Cotton D.W.K. , Kuypers B.R.M.
Published: October 2009

Thermal induced sweating has been studied in the tattooed and non-tattooed forearm skin of a human volunteer. The sweating was continuously recorded using an electrolytic water vapour analyzer. Both the maximal and mean rates were observed to be reduced by approximately 50% in the tattooed areas.
Inoculation Leprosy Subsequent to Small-Pox Vaccination
Authors: Sehgal V.N. , Rege V.L. , Vadiraj S.N.
Published: October 2009

A case of high resistant tuberculoid leprosy in a 25-year-old female, developing after small-pox vaccination is described. This case supports the hypothesis of inoculation leprosy.
Sex and Age Result in Differential Regulation of the Renal Thiazide-Sensitive NaCl Cotransporter and the Epithelial Sodium Channel in Angiotensin II-Infused Mice
Authors: Tiwari Swasti , Li Lijun , Riazi Shahla , Halagappa Veerendra K. Madala , Ecelbarger Carolyn M.
Published: October 2009

Background/Aims: We determined the effects of age and sex on the blood pressure (BP) response to angiotensin II (Ang II) infusion and evaluated the potential mechanistic role of the thiazide-sensitive NaCl cotransporter (NCC) and the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC). Methods: Male and female mice (∼3 or 21 months of age) were infused with Ang II or control for 7 days. Results: Males had a greater BP response to Ang II, somewhat enhanced by aging. Mean systolic BPs (at 7 days) were (mm Hg): 161, 143, 172, and 157 in young male, young female, old male, and old female mice, respectively. Immunoblotting changes in the whole kidney that supported this BP profile included a 51 and 52% increase in NCC band density in the old females and old males (as compared to sex-respective controls) with Ang II infusion, while the young males and young females showed an increase of 40 and 0%, respectively. Young males also had a greater reduction in major bands of β- and γ-ENaC, than did young female mice. The natriuretic response to hydrochlorothiazide supported an increase in activity of NCC with Ang II in aged mice only. Conclusions: Increased sensitivity to Ang II in aging and male mice may involve overactivity of NCC.
Pseudaphelenchus yukiae n. gen., n. sp. (Tylenchina: Aphelenchoididae) associated with Cylindrotermes macrognathus (Termitidae: Termitinae) in La Selva, Costa Rica
Authors: Kanzaki Natsumi , Giblin-Davis Robin M. , Scheffrahn Rudolf H. , Center Barbara J. , Davies Kerrie A.
Published: October 2009

A species of aphelenchoidid nematode was isolated from a subterranean
termite, Cylindrotermes macrognathus, during a survey of termite-associated
nematodes in a conserved forest in La Selva, Costa Rica. The nematode was
morphologically intermediate between the families Aphelenchidae and
Aphelenchoididae, i.e., the nematode had a true bursa supported by bursal
limb-like genital papillae but lacked a clear pharyngeal isthmus. The
molecular phylogenetic status of the new nematode among tylenchid,
cephalobid, panagrolaimid, aphelenchid and aphelenchoidid genera was
analysed based on ca 1.2 kb of SSU ribosomal DNA sequence and the inferred
position was basal to the family Aphelenchoididae. It was clearly not part
of the clade containing the genus Aphelenchus (=Aphelenchidae). This
nematode is described herein as Pseudaphelenchus yukiae n. gen., n. sp., and
the family definition of Aphelenchoididae is emended to include the unique
morphological characters of this new genus. The molecular phylogenetic
analysis supported the paraphyly of the three Aphelenchoidinae genera
Aphelenchoides, Laimaphelenchus and Schistonchus and the monophyly of
Ektaphelenchinae, Seinura (Seinurinae) and Noctuidonema (Acugutturinae).
However, many more representatives are needed to resolve the family-genus
level phylogeny of Aphelenchoididae.
Prospects for the UK Economy
Authors: Kirby Simon , Barrell Ray , Foley-Fisher Nathan
Published: October 2009

We expect the economy to contract by 4.4 per cent this year, a prospect which has scarcely changed since our April forecast. Our early estimate suggests that output was stable in the third quarter of this year, after a fall of 0.6 per cent in the second quarter (figure 1). Measured on an annual basis the contraction is only slightly less bad than the 4.6 per cent recorded in 1931.
The Influence of Convention Center Performance on Hotel Room Nights
Authors: Boo Soyoung , Kim Miyoung
Published: October 2009

The economic contribution of convention centers has received a great deal of attention from past research studies. However, arguments still remain about convention centers’ postexpansion impact on hotel room nights. In addition, there is a lack of research regarding the link between demand for hotel room nights and commonly adopted measurements of a convention center’s performance. This study examines the impact of convention center performance on the demand for hotel room nights through an investigation of a convention center located in a metropolitan city in the middle Atlantic region of the United States. Results show that there is a positive relationship between the quantity of function space and demand for hotel room nights in comparison to other factors of the convention center’s performance. The key findings provide practical implications for local convention and visitors bureaus and convention center managers in terms of marketing strategies and revenue management.
Inmate Self-Injurious Behaviors
Authors: Smith Hayden P. , Kaminski Robert J.
Published: October 2009

The current study examines demographic, health functioning, and criminogenic correlates of self-injurious behaviors. Incident reports for all 28 South Carolina correctional facilities were collected during a 30-month period, evidencing 189 inmates who self-injure contrasted with 22,794 inmates who do not. Self-injury was significantly associated with the disproportionate utilization of health resources, specifically through major mental health treatment and institutional restriction. Characteristics of incarcerated self-injurers revealed discernible maladjustment to the correctional milieu, with each self-injury incident being associated with a 37% increase in the number of disciplinary incidents. Moreover, the earlier incarceration period represented a period of greater risk. Each additional year in prison was associated with a 25% increase in self-injurious events, which then declined with further years of imprisonment. These unique characteristics are discussed, and salient policy implications are recommended.
A New Angle on the U.S. Military’s Emphasis on Developing Cross-Cultural Competence: Connecting In-Ranks’ Cultural Diversity to Cross-Cultural Competence
Authors: Hajjar Remi M.
Published: October 2009

This article forwards a novel approach regarding the U.S. military’s growing focus on building cross-cultural competence. This piece argues that a link exists between the armed forces’ internal cultural diversity issues and the military’s objective to heighten its ability to work effectively in foreign cultures. Cross-cultural competence means the knowledge, attitudes, and behavioral repertoire and skill sets that military members require to accomplish all given tasks and missions involving cultural diversity. Despite the military’s noteworthy historic progress in the area of building a diverse and cohesive force, it possesses some ongoing cultural diversity problems. The article examines three concerns within the ranks of the U.S. military: signs of religious intolerance, some ongoing resistance toward women service members, and antihomosexual attitudes and conduct. This piece explores these concerns and also argues that ameliorating these cultural diversity issues will contribute to building cross-cultural competence in the military.
Assessing State and Societal Functions of the Military and the War Experience in Doi Moi Vietnam
Authors: Raffin Anne
Published: October 2009

Studies on the military in Vietnam today see a concurrence between the changing role of the army—its growing economic role as well as its role as a tool to control the Vietnamese population—and the changing economy and international environment. How do we make sense of this evolution and its impact on civil—military relations in terms of power relations and authority? This study seeks to provide an analytical framework that shows how the military is not a homogeneous entity but rather is made up of various groups that derive uneven benefits from the post—cold war situation. The author’s contribution is primarily at the conceptual level, stressing the dynamics of power relations among the military, society, and state from a Weberian perspective. Doi moi, as an era of economic and social change, has redefined power relations. The author also emphasizes the generational and historical elements in civil—military relations that are specific to Vietnam.
Local Agreements as an Instrument for Improvement of Management—Employee Collaboration on Occupational Health and Safety
Authors: Sørensen Ole H. , Hasle Peter , Navrbjerg Steen E.
Published: October 2009

Employee participation is crucial to safe and secure workplace environments. Health and safety regulation or voluntary agreements form two different approaches to this. In Denmark, a legislative change facilitates combining the two approaches. The new flexibility of approach enables the organization of health and safety to be tailored to the needs of the workplace based on a local agreement negotiated between management and local union representatives. This new approach is explored in this article. The study finds that the system has a positive impact on employee participation, improves collaborative relations, strengthens local commitment and there is a perceived increase in organizational efficiency and flexibility; all factors that have been shown to increase safety performance.
Wild guesses and conflated meanings? Estimating the size of the sex worker population in Britain
Authors: Cusick Linda , Kinnell Hilary , Brooks-Gordon Belinda , Campbell Rosie
Published: October 2009

This paper reports the number of sex workers in Scotland and England who are in contact with specialist services for sex workers. Then, using methods and multipliers derived from the frequently quoted Kinnell study (1999) the paper provides various updated estimates of the wider population of sex workers. We point out the limits of our estimates and the methodological difficulties of estimating the size of this hidden population. The paper argues that many claims about sex work made by politicians and the media are misleading especially where they conflate sex work with trafficking and abuse.
Reduced attentional blink for alcohol-related stimuli in heavy social drinkers
Authors: Tibboel Helen , De Houwer Jan , Field Matt
Published: October 2009

Researchers have used various paradigms to show that attentional biases for substance-related stimuli are an important feature of addictive behaviours. However, it is not clear whether these attentional biases occur at the level of encoding or at later post-attentive processing stages. We examined attentional bias at the level of encoding with the attentional blink paradigm in a sample of non-clinical heavy and light-drinking students. Our results show a diminished attentional blink effect for alcohol-related words compared with soft drink-related words among heavy drinkers. The attentional blink was equally strong for alcohol-related and soft drink-related words among light drinkers. This suggests that alcohol-related information is processed relatively more efficiently in the former group. Even though these results are promising, our study shows that the internal consistency of the attentional blink can be improved.
Incomprehensibility in the Narratives of Individuals With a Diagnosis of Schizophrenia
Authors: Saavedra Javier , Cubero Mercedes , Crawford Paul
Published: October 2009

The fact that individuals with a diagnosis of schizophrenia have difficulties in terms of ordering and communicating their life stories is well known, and undoubtedly these dysfunctions are linked to the experience of alienation and isolation. In this article we contribute to the debate by studying life narratives of ten patients with a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia living in care homes in Andalusia, Spain. Patients were selected through meetings held with the directors of the care homes and data obtained from narrative, semistructured interviews. Thematic self-positioning and structure analysis identified four types of clearly distinctive narratives: delusive episodes with invasive voices, delusive episodes with no invasive voices, absence of delusive episodes or invasive voices and domination of self-position as patient, and complexity and articulation of self-positions.
Turkish Special Education Teachers’ Reported Use of Positive and Reductive Interventions for Problem Behaviors: An Examination of the Variables Associated With Use
Authors: Turan Yasemin , Erbas Dilek , Ozkan Serife Yucesoy , Kurkuoglu Burcu Ulke
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this survey study was to determine the following: (a) What strategies do Turkish special education teachers use to address problem behaviors in their classroom? (b) What are teachers’ views with regard to the effectiveness and acceptability of these strategies? (c) Is there a relationship between the use of strategies and teachers’ perceived effectiveness and acceptability? and (d) Are differences among teacher ratings of strategy use, effectiveness, and acceptability associated with teacher characteristics (e.g., area of specialization, years of experience)? Results revealed that Turkish teachers’ views of acceptability and effectiveness of strategies varied; however, in general, their ratings of positive strategies were higher than their ratings of reductive strategies. Results are discussed in the context of current literature, and directions for further research are suggested.
Understanding the Relationship between Attribute-Based and Metaphor-Based Dehumanization
Authors: Loughnan Steve , Haslam Nick , Kashima Yoshihisa
Published: October 2009

Previous research has adopted two distinct approaches to the study of dehumanization. One has focused on the denial of human attributes to groups (attribute-based dehumanization) and the other on the likening of group members to nonhumans (metaphor-based dehumanization). The relationship between these two approaches has yet to be examined. The current studies seek to clarify this relationship by integrating the two approaches. Using Haslam and colleagues’ (Haslam, 2006; Haslam, Loughnan, Kashima & Bain, 2008) model of dehumanization, we examined whether attribute-based dehumanization leads to metaphor-based dehumanization, and vice versa. In Study 1 participants read about a novel group that was described either as lacking one type of humanness or as being like a nonhuman. In Study 2 a concrete learning task taught participants that a novel group lacked a specific type of humanness. In both studies, participants explicitly learned to dehumanize the group and inferred the corresponding type of attribute- or metaphor-based perception (e.g. perceived a group as animal-like after learning that it lacked uniquely human attributes, and vice versa). Implicitly, however, participants were able to directly learn but not robustly infer the corresponding type of dehumanization. We suggest that the relationship between the two types of dehumanization can be understood using cognitive models of metaphor-making.
Multilevel models with multivariate mixed response types
Authors: Goldstein Harvey , Carpenter James , Kenward Michael G , Levin Kate A
Published: October 2009

We build upon the existing literature to formulate a class of models for multivariate mixtures of Gaussian, ordered or unordered categorical responses and continuous distributions that are not Gaussian, each of which can be defined at any level of a multilevel data hierarchy. We describe a Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm for fitting such models. We show how this unifies a number of disparate problems, including partially observed data and missing data in generalized linear modelling. The two-level model is considered in detail with worked examples of applications to a prediction problem and to multiple imputation for missing data. We conclude with a discussion outlining possible extensions and connections in the literature. Software for estimating the models is freely available.
Metformin treatment for gestational diabetes
Authors: Hyer Steve L , Balani Jyoti , Johnson Antoinette , Shehata Hassan
Published: October 2009

The prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is rising as the pregnant population becomes older and more obese. This is concerning because GDM is associated with increased perinatal morbidity such as macrosomia and shoulder dystocia, and the need for instrumental delivery. In addition, the offspring of GDM women have increased long-term risks of obesity and type 2 diabetes. There is no doubt that treating women with GDM improves pregnancy outcomes. Conventionally this has been by diet and insulin. Although effective, insulin increases appetite leading to weight gain. It increases the risk of hypoglycaemia and needs to be given by injection. There is also a substantial cost in terms of time for teaching and educating patients. Metformin offers a logical alternative to insulin in GDM, by reducing insulin resistance. Recent trial evidence indicates it is safe and effective. We describe our experience with metformin in GDM and review the evidence.
The Environmental Health/Home Safety Education Project: A Successful and Practical U.S.-Mexico Border Initiative
Authors: Forster-Cox Susan C. , Mangadu Thenral , Jacquez Benjamín , Fullerton Lynne
Published: October 2009

The Environmental Health/Home Safety Education Project (Proyecto de Salud Ambiental y Seguridad en el Hogar) has been developed in response to a wide array of severe and often preventable environmental health issues occurring in and around homes on the U.S.—Mexico border. Utilizing well-trained community members, called promotoras , homes are visited and assessed for potential environmental hazards, including home fire and food safety issues. Data analyzed from project years 2002 to 2005 shows a significant impact in knowledge levels and initial behavior change among targeted participants as it relates to fire and food safety issues. Since the initiation of the project in 1999, hundreds of participants have improved their quality of life by making their homes safer. The project has proven to be sustainable, replicable, flexible, and attractive to funders.
Professional Behavior
Authors: McConnell Tim J. , Rorrer Andrea K.
Published: October 2009

This case, which was inspired by actual events, describes the efforts of a district to create a culture of accountability for professional employee practice and behavior.1 In the midst of new district leaders and a shift in district priorities, numerous situations test the fortitude, organizational knowledge, ethical commitments, and political prowess of the district leadership. As the case unfolds, there are opportunities for students in an educational leadership preparation program to explore the political, legal, ethical, and organizational change dimensions of district leadership, particularly around areas of human resource and supervision. In doing so, the case illustrates the importance of inter- and intra-personal dynamics of leadership, particularly leadership during transition.
Modelling of 7050 aluminium alloy friction stir welding
Authors: Kamp N. , Reynolds A. P. , Robson J. D.
Published: October 2009

A thermal model combined with a microstructural and yield strength model has been developed to give a prediction of precipitate evolution and strength in the as welded and post-weld heat treated condition for friction stir welding of 7xxx aerospace aluminium alloys. This fully coupled model is applied to an overaged high strength 7050 aluminium alloy friction stir welded using a range of welding rotation and translation speeds. The evolution of the microstructure has been predicted as a function of the process parameters. The resulting microstructural evolution is shown to be a complex function of both peak temperature observed during the weld cycle and heating/cooling rates. Yield strength has been calculated from the microstructural predictions and a comparison between predicted yield strength and measured hardness has been used to test the modelling approach. Reasonably good agreement between model and experiment is found over the wide range of process parameters investigated.
A dosimetric comparison of four treatment planning methods for high grade glioma
Authors: Zach Leor , Stall Bronwyn , Ning Holly , Ondos John , Arora Barbara , Uma Shankavaram , Miller Robert W , Citrin Deborah , Camphausen Kevin
Published: October 2009

Background

High grade gliomas (HGG) are typically treated with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Three dimensional (3D) conformal radiotherapy treatment planning is still the main stay of treatment for these patients. New treatment planning methods suggest better dose distributions and organ sparing but their clinical benefit is unclear. The purpose of the current study was to compare normal tissue sparing and tumor coverage using four different radiotherapy planning methods in patients with high grade glioma.

Methods

Three dimensional conformal (3D), sequential boost IMRT, integrated boost (IB) IMRT and Tomotherapy (TOMO) treatment plans were generated for 20 high grade glioma patients. T1 and T2 MRI abnormalities were used to define GTV and CTV with 2 and 2.5 cm margins to define PTV1 and PTV2 respectively.

Results

The mean dose to PTV2 but not to PTV1 was less then 95% of the prescribed dose with IB and IMRT plans. The mean doses to the optic chiasm and the ipsilateral globe were highest with 3D plans and least with IB plans. The mean dose to the contralateral globe was highest with TOMO plans. The mean of the integral dose (ID) to the brain was least with the IB plan and was lower with IMRT compared to 3D plans. The TOMO plans had the least mean D10 to the normal brain but higher mean D50 and D90 compared to IB and IMRT plans. The mean D10 and D50 but not D90 were significantly lower with the IMRT plans compared to the 3D plans.

Conclusion

No single treatment planning method was found to be superior to all others and a personalized approach is advised for planning and treating high-grade glioma patients with radiotherapy. Integral dose did not reflect accurately the dose volume histogram (DVH) of the normal brain and may not be a good indicator of delayed radiation toxicity.
A Comparative Study of HIV/AIDS: The Knowledge, Attitudes, and Risk Behaviors of Schizophrenic and Diabetic Patients in Regard to HIV/AIDS in Nigeria
Authors: Ogunsemi Olawale O , Lawal Rahmaan A , Okulate Gbenga T , Alebiosu Christopher O , Olatawura Michael O
Published: October 2009

Context

Studies on knowledge and risk behaviors related to HIV/AIDS reported from developed countries have shown that people with psychiatric disorders constitute a special risk group. In Nigeria, although similar studies have been conducted on various population groups, there has, so far, been no reported study on people suffering from psychiatric disorders.

Objective

The present study set out to compare knowledge, attitudes, and risk behaviors related to HIV/AIDS among schizophrenic patients and diabetic patients.

Methods

Ninety‐eight consecutive schizophrenic patients attending the outpatient clinics of a psychiatric hospital over a period of 8 weeks completed an interviewer's administered questionnaire. The interview covered demographics, risk behaviors, knowledge related to HIV/AIDS, and patients' attitudes toward people infected with HIV/AIDS. Their responses were compared with those of 56 diabetic patients who were similarly interviewed in a teaching hospital.

Results

Compared with the diabetic patients, the schizophrenic patients were significantly less sexually active in the previous 12 months (P < .05). They had more misconceptions about HIV/AIDS and were less tolerant towards people living with HIV/AIDS compared with the diabetic patients. They were also more likely to engage in high‐risk behaviors.

Conclusion

Mental health providers rarely educate psychiatric patients about HIV/AIDS and should be more involved in doing so. Despite being less sexually active, patients with schizophrenia engaged in risk behaviors as did the diabetic patients.
Long term immunologic consequences of experimental stroke and mucosal tolerance
Authors: Gee J Michael , Zierath Dannielle , Hadwin Jessica , Savos Anna , Kalil Angela , Thullbery Matthew , Becker Kyra J
Published: October 2009

Background

An inflammatory insult following middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) is associated with a predisposition to develop a deleterious autoimmune response to the brain antigen myelin basic protein (MBP). Induction of immunologic tolerance to brain antigens prior to MCAO prevents this deleterious autoimmune response and is associated with better functional outcome early after stroke. In this study, we sought to determine the long term immunologic consequences of experimental stroke and induction of mucosal tolerance.

Methods

Male Lewis rats were tolerized to MBP or ovalbumin (OVA) by intranasal administration prior to MCAO and administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Neurological outcome was assessed at set points after MCAO and animals sacrificed at 3 months; the immune response to MBP in brain and spleen was determined using ELISPOT assay and degree of cellular inflammatory brain infiltrate assessed by immunocytochemistry.

Results

Animals that developed a pro-inflammatory (TH1) response to MBP experienced worse outcome, while those that developed a regulatory response (TREG) experienced better outcome. A TREGresponse in spleen was also associated with decreased inflammation and an increase in the number of FoxP3 positive cells in brain. In this study, tolerization to MBP prior to MCAO was associated with a tendency to develop a TH1 response to MBP by 3 months after MCAO.

Conclusion

These data show that induction of immunological tolerance to MBP is associated with improved outcome after stroke. This study, however, raises concern about the potential for inadvertent induction of detrimental autoimmunity through mucosal administration of antigen.
Persistent treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors and/or memantine slows clinical progression of Alzheimer disease
Authors: Rountree Susan D , Chan Wenyaw , Pavlik Valory N , Darby Eveleen J , Siddiqui Samina , Doody Rachelle S
Published: October 2009

Introduction

There are no empiric data to support guidelines for duration of therapy with antidementia drugs. This study examined whether persistent use of antidementia drugs slows clinical progression of Alzheimer disease (AD) assessed by repeated measures on serial tests of cognition and function.

Methods

Six hundred forty-one probable AD patients were followed prospectively at an academic center over 20 years. Cumulative drug exposure was expressed as a persistency index (PI) reflecting total years of drug use divided by total years of disease symptoms. Baseline and annual testing consisted of Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog), Baylor Profound Mental Status Examination (BPMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB), Physical Self-Maintenance Scale (PSMS), and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Annual change in slope of neuropsychological and functional tests as predicted by follow-up time, PI, and the interaction of these two variables was evaluated.

Results

PI was associated with significantly slower rates of decline (with, without adjustment for covariates) on MMSE (P < 0.0001), PSMS (P < 0.05), IADL (P < 0.0001), and CDR-SB (P < 0.001). There was an insignificant trend (P = 0.053) for the PI to be associated with slower rate of decline on BPMSE. The association of PI with ADAS-Cog followed a quadratic trend (P < 0.01). Analysis including both linear and quadratic terms suggests that PI slowed ADAS-Cog decline temporarily. The magnitude of the favorable effect of a rate change in PI was: MMSE 1 point per year, PSMS 0.4 points per year, IADL 1.4 points per year, and CDR-SB 0.6 points per year. The change in mean test scores is additive over the follow-up period (3 ± 1.94 years).

Conclusions

Persistent drug treatment had a positive impact on AD progression assessed by multiple cognitive, functional, and global outcome measures. The magnitude of the treatment effect was clinically significant. Positive treatment effects were even found in those with advanced disease.
Decreased ERK and JNK signaling contribute to gene overexpression in “senescent” CD4+CD28– T cells through epigenetic mechanisms
Authors: Chen Yingxuan , Gorelik Gabriela J , Strickland Faith M , Richardson Bruce C
Published: October 2009

Decreased ERK and JNK signaling in CD4+CD28− T cells decreases DNA methyltransferase levels causes demethylation and overexpression of genes normally suppressed by chromatin structure.

An inflammatory and cytotoxic CD4+CD28– T cell subset infiltrates atherosclerotic plaques and is implicated in plaque rupture and myocardial infarctions. This pathologic subset develops with replicative stress and is found in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases such as RA as well as with aging. CD4+CD28– cells overexpress genes normally suppressed by DNA methylation in CD4+CD28+ T cells, such as KIR, perforin, and CD70. How this subset overexpresses methylation-sensitive genes is unknown. DNA methylation patterns are maintained in proliferating cells by Dnmts, which are up-regulated during mitosis by the ERK and JNK signaling pathways. We hypothesized that defects in these signaling pathways contribute to altered gene expression in human CD4+CD28– cells through effects on DNA methylation. We report that signaling through the ERK and JNK pathways is decreased in CD4+CD28– relative to CD4+CD28+ cells from the same individuals and that ERK and JNK pathway inhibition decreases Dnmt1 and −3a levels, which in turn, causes demethylation and overexpression of the TNFSF7 (CD70) gene. We also report that CD4+CD28– T cells overexpress PP5, a stress-induced inhibitor of the ERK and JNK signaling pathways that may contribute to the signaling defects. We conclude that decreased ERK and JNK signaling in the CD4+CD28– subset, arising with replicative stress, can lead to the overexpression of normally suppressed genes through effects on Dnmts and consequently, chromatin structure.
Burn angles and form factors for Wiebe function fits to mass fraction burned curves of a spark ignition engine with variable valve timing
Authors: Bonatesta F , Waters B , Shayler P J
Published: October 2009

The charge burn characteristics of a port-injected spark ignition engine with a pent-roof combustion chamber and variable valve timing have been investigated experimentally. The engine was run under stoichiometric mixture operating conditions over ranges of intake and exhaust valve timings, engine speed, and engine load. Empirical functions have been developed for the 0–90 per cent mass fraction burned angle and the form factor, which define Wiebe function fits to the mass fraction burned variation in the crank angle domain. The burn angle and form factor have been related to the level of charge dilution by burned gas, engine speed, ignition timing, and charge density at spark timing. The dilution level has the strongest influence on the burn rate and profile. The dilution level varied with intake and exhaust valve timings, external exhaust gas recirculation, and engine load. The results indicate that intake and exhaust valve timings influence combustion primarily by modifying the charge dilution with burned gas and charge density.