bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fault detection for output feedback control systems with actuator stuck faults: A steady‐state‐based approach
Authors: Yang Guang‐Hong , Wang Heng , Xie Lihua
Published: November 2009

The paper studies the fault detection problem for output feedback control systems with bounded disturbances and nonzero constant reference inputs. A steady‐state‐based approach is proposed which can be used to detect small actuator stuck faults including actuator outage (the stuck value is zero). These small stuck faults, especially the outage faults, cannot be detected effectively using the existing techniques. A dynamic output feedback controller and a weighting matrix are designed simultaneously. The dynamic output feedback controller stabilizes the closed‐loop system for both fault‐free and faulty cases and attenuates the effects of disturbances. By manipulating the steady‐state values of system states with the detection weighting matrix, a residual is then generated, through which actuator stuck faults including actuator outages can be detected effectively. Simulation results are included to demonstrate our design procedure. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joint modeling of longitudinal ordinal data and competing risks survival times and analysis of the NINDS rt‐PA stroke trial
Authors: Li Ning , Elashoff Robert M. , Li Gang , Saver Jeffrey
Published: November 2009

Existing joint models for longitudinal and survival data are not applicable for longitudinal ordinal outcomes with possible non‐ignorable missing values caused by multiple reasons. We propose a joint model for longitudinal ordinal measurements and competing risks failure time data, in which a partial proportional odds model for the longitudinal ordinal outcome is linked to the event times by latent random variables. At the survival endpoint, our model adopts the competing risks framework to model multiple failure types at the same time. The partial proportional odds model, as an extension of the popular proportional odds model for ordinal outcomes, is more flexible and at the same time provides a tool to test the proportional odds assumption. We use a likelihood approach and derive an EM algorithm to obtain the maximum likelihood estimates of the parameters. We further show that all the parameters at the survival endpoint are identifiable from the data. Our joint model enables one to make inference for both the longitudinal ordinal outcome and the failure times simultaneously. In addition, the inference at the longitudinal endpoint is adjusted for possible non‐ignorable missing data caused by the failure times. We apply the method to the NINDS rt‐PA stroke trial. Our study considers the modified Rankin Scale only. Other ordinal outcomes in the trial, such as the Barthel and Glasgow scales, can be treated in the same way. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of non‐structural components on tall building stiffness
Authors: Li Bing , Hutchinson Graham L. , Duffield Colin F.
Published: November 2009

The lateral load resisting system of a multi‐storey building is considered to be an assembly of structural components, such as the structural frame, shear walls, concrete cores, etc. However, in reality, some so‐called ‘non‐structural components (NSCs)’ also play important roles in adding stiffness to the building. To evaluate the contributions from those NSCs and to quantify some of their contributions to the stiffness of the structure under service level loads, this paper reports on the analysis of a lateral load resisting system with different components so that the stiffness contribution from each individual component may be evaluated. Results from finite element analyses are verified by other theoretical calculations. Discussions and conclusions on the performance of both single components and the building system are also provided. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On delay constrained CAC scheme and scheduling policy for CBR traffic in IEEE 802.11e wireless LANs
Authors: Deng Der‐Jiunn , Ke Chih‐Heng , Chao Han‐Chien , Huang Yueh‐Min
Published: November 2009

CBR (constant bit rate) traffic is expected to be an important traffic source in wireless networks. Such sources usually have stringent jitter or delay requirements and in many cases they should be delivered exactly as they were generated. In this paper, we propose a strictly guaranteed QoS (quality‐of‐service) provisioning CAC (call admission control) scheme with a polling‐based scheduling policy for CBR traffic in IEEE 802.11e wireless LANs. Under such a scheme, the proposed transmit‐permission policy for HCCA (HCF controlled channel access) method can forecast the maximum suffered delay for each packet and derive sufficient conditions so that all the CBR sources satisfy their time constraints to provide deterministic QoS guarantees. A simple analytical model is carried out to estimate the average queueing delay of the proposed scheme. In addition to theoretical analysis, simulations are conducted to validate its promising performance. Our simulation results show that the proposed scheme maintains a high throughput with respect to the whole range of system load. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Method and portable facility for energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescent analysis of zinc content in needle‐biopsy specimens of prostate
Authors: Zaichick Sofia , Zaichick Vladimir
Published: November 2009

A facility and method for radionuclide‐induced (109Cd) energy‐dispersive X‐ray fluorescent (EDXRF) were developed to determine the Zn content in the needle‐biopsy specimens of human prostate. The material received from 33 subjects was used for quality control of Zn results and estimation of Br, Rb, Sr, and Zn contents in prostate: 23 patients (13 benign prostatic hyperplasia(BPH)and 10 cancer) and 10 apparently healthy persons (control group of men died unexpectedly). All materials were divided into two parts. One of them was morphologically examined while Zn content of another one was estimated. Mean values (M ± SEM) for mass fraction of Zn (mg kg−1 on dry weight basis) in normal, hyperplastic and cancerous prostate tissues were 1110 ± 140, 1140 ± 110, and 134 ± 18, respectively. It was shown that the needle‐biopsy specimens were sufficiently representative for an assessment of the Zn content in affected tissue of prostate. The developed method provides Zn estimation in both fresh and dry needle‐biopsy specimens, as well as in samples made of lyophilized and homogenized tissues of resected prostate. The facility for EDXRF is comparatively compact and can be located in close proximity to the site of carrying out the biopsy procedure. Additionally, the developed facility and method allow to determine Br, Rb, and Sr contents in samples of prostate tissue. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Multi-feature Reproducibility Assessment of Mass Spectral Data in Clinical Proteomic Studies
Authors: Zeng Irene S. L. , Browning Sharon R. , Gladding Patrick , Jüllig Mia , Middleditch Martin , Stewart Ralph A. H.
Published: November 2009

Background

The use of mass spectrometry to investigate disease-associated proteins among thousands of candidates simultaneously creates challenges with the evaluation of operational and biological variation. Traditional statistical methods, which evaluate reproducibility of a single feature, are likely to provide an inadequate assessment of reproducibility. This paper proposes a systematic approach for the evaluation of the global reproducibility of multidimensional mass spectral data at the post-identification stage.

Methods

The proposed systematic approach combines dimensional reduction and permutation to test and summarize the reproducibility. First, principal component analysis is applied to the mean quantities from identified features of paired replicated samples. An eigenvalue test is used to identify the number of significant principal components which reflect the underlying correlation pattern of the multiple features. Second, a simulation-based permutation test is applied to the derived paired principal components. Third, a modified form of Bland Altman or MA plot is produced to visualize agreement between the replicates. Last, a discordance index is used to summarize the agreement.

Results

Application of this method to data from both a cardiac liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry experiment with iTRAQ labeling and simulation experiments derived from an ovarian cancer SELDI-MS experiment demonstrate that the proposed global reproducibility test is sensitive to the simulated systematic bias when the sample size is above 15. The two proposed test statistics (max t statistics and a sign score statistic) for the permutation tests are shown to be reliable.

Conclusion

The methodology presented in this paper provides a systematic approach for the global measurement of reproducibility in clinical proteomic studies.
EU DRUID project: results of a questionnaire survey amongst participants of driver rehabilitation programmes in Europe
Authors: Klipp Simone
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This study was one part of the research activities of work package 5 “Rehabilitation” of the integrated EU DRUID project (6th Framework Programme). It aimed at gathering information about the cognitive–affective and behavioural processes that participants undergo while attending driver rehabilitation (DR) programmes. The primary objective was to analyse the outcomes of group interventions for alcohol offenders in order to assess any cognitive, motivational and behavioural modifications within individual participants and to identify the relevant variables which initiate and support this change process.

Methods

The general methodological concept of the study was a prospective cohort design of participants of group-based European driver rehabilitation programmes, carried out via a participant feedback questionnaire survey. In totalN = 7.339 DUI offenders in 9 European countries (Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands and Poland) participated in the survey.

Results

The results indicate that DR participants feel such programmes provide strong support for their cognitive and behavioural change processes. The findings suggest that participants feel encouraged to establish new behavioural goals and the commitment to stick to them. At the same time, the participants’ ratings emphasise the important role of the course leader in encouraging such changes.

Conclusions

The findings of this explorative questionnaire survey are promising. Although it is impossible to draw any conclusions regarding long-term behavioural changes or effects on recidivism rates, participants of DR courses express positive feedback on completion of the programme. The positive outcomes of the study can motivate decision-makers to launch DR measures and to regard them as an essential part of a comprehensive countermeasure system against DUI.
The e‐Policy Handbook
Authors: Batten Sandra
Published: November 2009

The e‐Policy Handbook Nancy Flynn 2nd edition 2009, AMACOM 304 $19.95 softcover
Reinvention
Authors: Walker Rachel
Published: November 2009

Reinvention Brian Tracy 2009, AMACOM 224 $21.95 softcover
Nurse as Educator: Principles of Teaching and Learning for Nursing Practice
Authors: Campbell Eileen
Published: November 2009

Nurse as Educator: Principles of Teaching and Learning for Nursing Practice Susan B. Bastable 3rd edition 2008, Jones and Bartlett Publishers 667 $76.95 softcover
Leading with Kindness
Authors: Slater Michelle
Published: November 2009

Leading with Kindness William F. Baker, Michael O'Malley 2008, AMACOM 304 $24.95 hardcover
Group Leadership Skills for Nurses and Health Professionals
Authors: Joiner Stacy
Published: November 2009

Group Leadership Skills for Nurses and Health Professionals 5th edition 2008, Springer Publishing Company 376 $50 hardcover
Roles of kinin B1 and B2 receptors in skin cancer pain produced by orthotopic melanoma inoculation in mice
Authors: Fujita Masahide , Andoh Tsugunobu , Ohashi Kazuto , Akira Ahmad , Saiki Ikuo , Kuraishi Yasushi
Published: November 2009

Background: Although bradykinin is a potent algogenic peptide, the roles of this peptide and kinin receptors in cancer pain are unclear.

Aims: The present study was conducted to clarify whether kinin B1 and B2 receptors would be involved in pain using a mouse model of skin cancer pain.

Methods: B16‐BL6 melanoma cells were inoculated into the hind paw of C57BL/6 mice. Licking, an index of spontaneous pain, allodynia and hyperalgesia were observed. Expression of kinin receptor mRNAs was analyzed with reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction. The contents of kininogen and bradykinin‐related peptides were assayed with Western blotting and enzyme immunoassay, respectively.

Results: Melanoma inoculation induced spontaneous licking of the melanoma‐bearing paw from day 18 post‐inoculation, which was inhibited by local injections of B1 and B2 receptor antagonists. Allodynia was briefly attenuated by B2, but not B1 antagonist and hyperalgesia was not inhibited by either B1 or B2 antagonist. Local injections of B1 and B2 receptor agonists increased licking behavior in melanoma‐bearing, but not healthy, paw. The expression of kinin B1, but not B2, receptor mRNA was markedly increased in the L4/5 dorsal root ganglia on the melanoma‐bearing side. Melanoma cells expressed B1 and B2 receptors and kininogen. The content of bradykinin and related peptides was increased in the melanoma mass as compared with healthy skin.

Conclusions: Bradykinin and related peptides released from melanoma cells may cause spontaneous pain and allodynia in the melanoma‐bearing paw, in which B1 and B2 receptors on primary afferent and melanoma cells may have different roles.
A crossover comparison of two types of female condom
Authors: Hou Li‐Yan , Qiu Hong‐Yan , Zhao Yin‐Zhu , Zeng Xian‐Sen , Cheng Yi‐Min
Published: November 2009

Objective

To compare the performance and acceptability of 2 types of female condoms (FCs) among female sex workers (FSWs) in China.

Methods

The present crossover survey trial was conducted in Enping City between September and December 2007.

Results

There were no significant differences between the 2 types of condoms in cumulative rates of episodes of misdirection; participants experiencing discomfort or feeling the outer or inner ring of an FC; or the clinical breakage or turning inside out of an FC. The rates of total clinical failures were similar for both FC types. Moreover, 59.5% of the survey participants reported that either type was acceptable to them.

Conclusion

There were no statistically significantly differences in performance between the 2 types of FCs tested, and most participants would accept using either in the future.
Four‐dimensional sonographic assessment of inter‐twin contact late in the first trimester
Authors: Sasaki Mutsuko , Yanagihara Toshihiro , Naitoh Naoko , Hata Toshiyuki
Published: November 2009

Objective

To evaluate the total number of inter‐twin contacts between monochorionic diamniotic (MD) and dichorionic diamniotic (DD) twins using four‐dimensional (4D) sonography late in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Method

Six MD and 8 DD pregnancies were studied for 30 minutes with 4D sonography at 10–11 and 12–13 weeks of gestation. A total of 10 types of inter‐twin contact was evaluated.

Results

There was a significant difference in the total number of all contacts between MD and DD twins at the 10–11 weeks of gestation (P < 0.05). There was also a significant difference in the total number of contacts between 10–11 and 12–13 weeks of gestation in DD twins (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Four‐dimensional sonography provides a means of evaluating inter‐twin contact in the first trimester of pregnancy and could be an accurate and reliable tool in studies of inter‐twin behavior.
The Effect of an Ankle‐Foot Orthosis on Temporal Spatial Parameters and Asymmetry of Gait in Hemiparetic Patients
Authors: Esquenazi Alberto , Ofluoglu Demet , Hirai Barbara , Kim Stella
Published: November 2009

Objective

To investigate the effect of an ankle–foot orthosis (AFO) on certain walking parameters in patients with hemiplegia.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory at MossRehab.

Participants

A total of 1150 records of patients with stroke who were referred to the Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory between 2000 and 2008 for an evaluation of their walking. Of this group, 217 patients wore braces at the time of the gait evaluation and were selected for a more in‐depth review. Among these patients, 42 records were selected because of the existence of available data from temporal spatial analysis meeting 2 conditions: walking with bare feet and walking with an AFO during the same visit.

Methods and Main Outcome Measurements

Under both conditions, temporal spatial parameters of gait, including self‐selected velocity, cadence, stance time, swing time, double support time, step length, and width of the base of support, were assessed by the use of an electronic gait mat (Gait Mat II, EQ Inc.) originally designed in the Moss Rehabilitation Engineering Center.

Results

Walking velocity, cadence, percent stance, double support, and step length significantly increased, whereas affected side percent swing and width of the base of support decreased when patients used an AFO. Symmetries of stance time (P = .0001) and step length (P = .002) improved as well when patients used an AFO compared with walking barefoot.

Conclusion

In this sample of patients with stroke, the use of an AFO improved the symmetry of several of the temporal spatial parameters of gait, and consequently, the gait pattern of these hemiparetic patients was enhanced.
Comparing Eccentric Resistance Exercise in Prostate Cancer Survivors On and Off Hormone Therapy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hansen Pamela A. , Dechet Christopher B. , Porucznik Christina A. , LaStayo Paul C.
Published: November 2009

Objectives

To determine the feasibility of an eccentric resistance exercise training protocol in men with prostate cancer and to assess whether men with prostate cancer who are receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) have a blunted effect from the training as compared with prostate cancer survivors not receiving ADT.

Design

Prospective pilot study.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Participants

Sixteen men with prostate cancer (Gleason scores 3+3 to 4+4) were initially enrolled. Ten men (mean age 66, range 48‐86) completed the study, 5 were currently receiving ADT. Analysis was performed on these 10 men.

Interventions

Subjects were evaluated at baseline. All men underwent a 12‐week resistance exercise training protocol using a recumbent, high‐force eccentric, leg cycle ergometer 3 times per week at a “somewhat hard” perceived exertion for 12 to 15 minutes. Preexercise and postexercise training changes were examined within and between groups.

Main Outcome Measures

Quadriceps muscle volume (magnetic resonance imaging), isometric knee extension strength, functional mobility (Timed Up and Go Test [TUG] and 6‐minute walk [6MW]), health‐related quality of life (FACT‐P), and fatigue (FACIT‐fatigue scale).

Results

The ADT group demonstrated significant within‐group improvements in the 6MW (P = .01) and isometric knee extension strength (P = .03). This group also demonstrated a clinically relevant change in the FACT‐P; however, this did not meet statistical significance. The non‐ADT group demonstrated significant within‐group improvements in the physical subscale of the FACT‐P (P = .03) and an increase in muscle volume (P = .04). Their improvements in the TUG approached significance (P = .08). No between‐group differences existed.

Conclusions

Eccentric resistance exercise was well tolerated, and both groups derived some benefits in strength and functional mobility. Men receiving ADT did not appear to have a blunted response to the exercise as compared with prostate cancer survivors not receiving ADT.
Differences in Abdominal Muscle Activation Patterns of Younger and Older Adults Performing an Asymmetric Leg‐Loading Task
Authors: Hubley‐Kozey Cheryl L. , Hanada Edwin Y. , Gordon Sarah , Kozey John , McKeon Melissa
Published: November 2009

Objectives

To determine whether differences exist between younger (20‐50 years) and older adults (>65 years) in abdominal muscle amplitudes, temporal patterns, and three‐dimensional (3D) pelvic motion, while performing an asymmetric leg‐loading task.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Neuromuscular function laboratory.

Participants

Ten healthy younger (33.3 ± 7.7 years) and 10 healthy gender‐ and body mass index–matched older adults (69.0 ± 6.6 years).

Intervention

Surface electromyograms from 6 abdominal muscle sites bilaterally and pelvic motions were simultaneously recorded.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Root mean square (RMS) amplitude during the leg extension phase was calculated for each muscle. Ensemble average waveforms for the total exercise were analyzed using principal component (PC) analysis. Total angular displacement of the pelvis was calculated. Student t tests were performed on demographic and angular displacement data. Three‐factor mixed model analysis of variances (group, muscle, side) tested main effects and interactions (P < .05) for the RMS amplitude and PC scores from the temporal waveforms. Bonferroni post‐hoc analyses tested pair‐wise differences.

Results

There were no between‐group differences for the pelvic motions. Three PC patterns captured 85% of the variance in the waveforms. The external oblique (EO) RMS amplitudes were significantly (P < .05) higher than those of the other 3 muscle sites, similar for the PC1 scores which captured overall amplitude. The PC2 score for the internal oblique (IO) was significantly higher (P < .05) than that of all other muscles, illustrating a higher initial amplitude compared with later in the movement. There was a significant group by muscle interaction for PC3 scores, demonstrating group differences in temporal patterns.

Conclusions

Both groups were able to minimize lumbopelvic motion and recruited their abdominal muscles to similar overall amplitudes, with the IO muscle activated to higher amplitudes early in the movement task. The older adult group demonstrated a distinctive drop in abdominal activity during the leg‐lowering phase of the exercise and less symmetry among muscle sites.
Impact of earthquakes on agriculture during the Roman–Byzantine period from pollen records of the Dead Sea laminated sediment
Authors: Leroy Suzanne A.G. , Marco Shmuel , Bookman Revital , Miller Charlotte S.
Published: November 2009

The Dead Sea region holds the archives of a complex relationship between an ever-changing nature and ancient civilisations. Regional pollen diagrams show a Roman"Byzantine period standing out in the recent millennia by its wetter climate that allowed intensive arboriculture. During that period, the Dead Sea formed laminites that display mostly a seasonal character. A multidisciplinary study focused on two earthquakes, 31 BC and AD 363, recorded as seismites in the Ze"elim gully A unit III which has been well dated by radiocarbon in a previous study. The sampling of the sediment was done at an annual resolution starting from a few years before and finishing a decade after each earthquake. A clear drop in agricultural indicators (especiallyOleaand cereals) is shown. These pollen indicators mostly reflect human activities in the Judean Hills and coastal oases. Agriculture was disturbed in large part of the rift valley where earthquake damage affected irrigation and access to the fields. It took 4 to 5 yr to resume agriculture to previous conditions. Earthquakes must be seen as contributors to factors damaging societies. If combined with other factors such as climatic aridification, disease epidemics and political upheaval, they may lead to civilisation collapse.
Multiple mating by females of two Bactrocera species (Diptera: Tephritidae: Dacinae)
Authors: Chinajariyawong A. , Drew R.A.I. , Meats A. , Balagawi S. , Vijaysegaran S.
Published: November 2009

Multiple mating was investigated in two tephritid species when females were under minimal male pressure because they were each confined with a single male in cages 20×20×20 cm and observed daily until they died. Laboratory-reared females of Bactrocera cucumis (French) lived up to 274 days and refractory periods averaged 59–63 days. However, the distribution of matings among B. cucumis females was not significantly different to that expected by chance. Wild females of Bactrocera cacuminata (Hering) reared from field-collected fruits of Solanum mauritianum Scopoli lived for up to 134 days and mated up to three times with refractory periods between matings averaging 27–39 days. The distribution of the number of matings among females of B. cacuminata was non-random because of the high proportion of non-maters (50%); but, when only females mating more than once were considered, there was no significant departure from random expectation.
Casein retention in curd and loss of casein into whey at chymosin-induced coagulation of milk
Authors: Hallén Elin , Lundén Anne , Allmere Toomas , Andrén Anders
Published: November 2009

Impact of milk protein composition on casein (CN) retention in curd during the milk coagulation process was studied using a model cheese making system. Individual milk samples from 110 cows in mid lactation of the Swedish Red and Swedish Holstein breeds with known genotypes of β-casein, κ-casein and β-lactoglobulin were defatted, coagulated with chymosin, subjected to syneresis and subsequent pressing simulated by centrifugation. The results indicated that κ-casein concentration of milk plays an important role in the curd formation process and initial syneresis (whey after cutting), whereas an increased CN ratio was associated with less casein in whey after simulated pressing. Increased κ-casein concentration of milk also characterized the milk samples with no measurable loss of casein in whey, compared with milk samples with casein lost in whey, both after cutting and after simulated pressing. Concentrations of αs1-casein, β-casein, and total casein in milk were positively associated with fresh curd yield, which showed a strong correlation with amount of casein retained in curd. No effect of protein genotype on fresh curd yield or casein in whey was found. The β-lactoglobulin BB genotype was associated with increased casein retention in curd, most likely due to the association of this genotype with CN ratio.
Simultaneous, laser-sintered, three-dimensional modelling of bony structures and soft tissue for surgical navigation of extended cholesteatoma
Authors: Suzuki M , Ogawa Y , Hasegawa T , Kawaguchi S , Yukawa K , Nishiyama N , Shimizu S
Published: November 2009

Aim:

To examine the usefulness of a three-dimensional model for surgical navigation of cholesteatoma.

Materials and method:

A three-dimensional model was prototyped using selective laser sintering. Based on detailed computed tomography data, powder layers were laser-fused and accumulated to create a three-dimensional structure. The computed tomography threshold was adjusted to simultaneously replicate bony structures and soft tissues.

Results:

The cholesteatoma, major vessels and bony structures were well replicated. This laser-sintered model was used to aid surgery for recurrent cholesteatoma. The cholesteatoma, which extended from the hypotympanum through the styloid process sheath and the internal carotid artery sheath, was removed safely via a minimal skin incision.

Conclusion:

The laser-sintered model was useful for surgical planning and navigation in a cholesteatoma case involving complex bony structures and soft tissue.
Endoscopic rigid oesophagoscopy: a simple method to teach rigid oesophagoscopy
Authors: Anari S
Published: November 2009

Teaching rigid oesophagoscopy is a challenging task for trainers. This report describes a simple technique of teaching rigid oesophagoscopy, using an endoscopic telescope. The accompanying video clip (available online at The Journal of Laryngology & Otology website), the first of its kind, represents a valuable teaching aid.
GSTT1,GSTM1,GSTM3andNAT2polymorphisms in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in a Greek population
Authors: Chatzimichalis M , Xenellis J , Tzagaroulakis A , Sarof P , Banis K , Gazouli M , Bibas A
Published: November 2009

Objective:

It is well known that laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma is strongly related to tobacco and alcohol consumption. Accumulating evidence suggests that alterations of detoxification enzymes, such as glutathione S-transferases and N-acetyltransferases, influence the risk of cancers associated with tobacco smoke and alcohol.

Methods:

This was a retrospective case–control study. The study group consisted of 88 Greek patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma; there were also 102 control subjects. Frequencies of the genotypesGSTT1,GSTM1,GSTM3andNAT2were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment polymorphism.

Results:

The distribution of overall genotypes was 55.68 per cent rapid acetylator and 44.32 per cent slow acetylator in patients, and 36.27 per cent rapid acetylator and 63.72 per cent slow acetylator in controls. The odds ratio for rapid acetylator status in cases versus controls was 2.207 (95 per cent confidence interval 1.23–3.95,p = 0.0087).

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated a significant relationship between rapid acetylator genotypes and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in a Greek population.
Three-dimensional reconstruction based on computed tomography images of the frontal sinus drainage pathway
Authors: Reitzen S D , Wang E Y , Butros S R , Babb J , Lebowitz R A , Jacobs J B
Published: November 2009

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the utility of three-dimensional reconstructions of paranasal sinus computed tomography data in depicting the anatomy of the frontal sinus drainage pathway.

Methods:

Twenty-nine patients underwent imaging of the sinuses for various clinical indications. Variations in frontal sinus recess anatomy were determined from 0.75-mm thick coronal, axial and sagittal computed tomography images. Three-dimensional, reformatted images were generated from manually segmented volumes of interest. Observations were made on the variation and usefulness of these reconstructions.

Results:

Three-dimensional, reformatted images of segmented volumes aided delineation of the spatial relationships of the frontal sinus, frontal sinus drainage pathway, infundibular and meatal direction of drainage, agger nasi cells, ethmoid bulla cells, supraorbital cells, and suprabullar cells.

Conclusion:

Three-dimensional, reformatted images of frontonasal anatomy enable improved understanding of the frontal sinus drainage pathway anatomy and of the spatial relationships between ethmoid air cells in this region. Such images may provide a useful adjunct to surgical planning and education.
Significance of fascin expression in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Durmaz A , Kurt B , Ongoru O , Karahatay S , Gerek M , Yalcın S
Published: November 2009

Objective:

Fascin is an actin-binding protein which is expressed in the basal areas of healthy squamous epithelium. Although overexpression of fascin has been shown in many tumours, the relationship between fascin and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma has not previously been investigated, to the best of our knowledge. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between fascin expression and tumour behaviour in 30 cases of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Materials and methods:

For all lesions, a section of paraffin-embedded tissue was immunohistochemically stained for fascin. The percentage of positive, stained cells was scored from one to five (one = 0–5 per cent, two = 6–25 per cent, three = 26–50 per cent, four = 51–75 per cent and five = 76–100 per cent), and the staining intensity from one to three (one = mild, two = moderate and three = strong). A total immunohistochemical fascin expression score was obtained by multiplying the staining percentage and intensity. The relationship between the total fascin score and each case's age, sex, tumour localisation, tumour–node–metastasis stage and differentiation was evaluated statistically.

Results:

Various amounts of fascin expression were observed in all cases. There was a statistically significant relationship between high levels of fascin expression (i.e. a total fascin score of 10 or more) and the cases' tumour stage (p = 0.022), node stage (p = 0.024) and clinical stage (p = 0.014). In addition, worsening tumour differentiation was associated with an increasing fascin score, but this finding was statistically insignificant.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas with high levels of fascin expression may be more aggressive than those with low expression levels. Further studies with larger series are needed to support these results and to clarify rationales.
Infratemporal hydatid cyst: a case presenting with blindness
Authors: Yazdani N , Basam A , Heidarali M , Sharif Kashani S , Hasibi M , Mokhtari Z
Published: November 2009

Objective:

We report a very rare case of a hydatid cyst in the infratemporal fossa, causing visual loss over a 10-day period, which disappeared with rapid surgical and medical treatment.

Case report:

A 14-year-old girl presented with right exophthalmos and visual loss. Over a 10-day period, her visual acuity had decreased to detection of hand motion only, due to pressure on the optic nerve caused by a parapharyngeal cyst pressing through a inferior orbital fissure on the right side. A craniotomy had previously been performed for a right frontoparietal hydatid cyst. The patient had been treated intermittently with albendazole. The patient was primarily diagnosed with hydatid cyst, on the basis of her previous medical history and radiological findings, and underwent surgery. Three cysts were carefully removed from the right maxillary sinus, via a standard Caldwell–Luc approach, and the surgical area was irrigated with hypertonic saline.

Conclusion:

Infratemporal hydatidosis is very rarely reported in the world literature, although hydatid cysts are endemic in many countries, including Iran. We discuss the common presenting features, investigation and treatment options for infratemporal hydatosis. Constant evaluation of adjacent organs is necessary, with treatment as required, due to the propensity of hydatidosis to recur in essential organs. Immediate surgery is recommended, both to prevent the development of disease and to improve the prognosis.
A new species and new records of Pyrenula (Pyrenulaceae) from India
Authors: RAM T. A. M. Jagadeesh , SINHA G. P.
Published: November 2009

A new lichen species, Pyrenula darjeelingensis (Pyrenulaceae), is described from the Eastern Himalayan region of India. It is characterized by having 5-septate to submuriform ascospores with papillate apices and the terminal lumina mostly not separated from the exospore by an endospore layer. Six additional species of Pyrenula are reported for the first time from India: P. acutalis R. C. Harris, P. dermatodes (Borrer) Schaer., P. mastophoroides (Nyl.) Zahlbr., P. mucosa (Vain.) R. C. Harris, P. subelliptica (Tuck.) R. C. Harris and P. thelemorpha Tuck.
Rinodina fuscoisidiata, a new muscicolous, isidiate species from Venezuela
Authors: GIRALT Mireia , KALB Klaus , ELIX John A.
Published: November 2009

Rinodina fuscoisidiata, a muscicolous isidiate species with large isidia andPachysporaria-type ascospores is described from Venezuela. This species contains an unknown terpene as a major secondary metabolite in addition to traces of atranorin. It is compared with the four known isidiateRinodinataxa.
The gastropod Arion fuscus prefers cyanobacterial to green algal parts of the tripartite lichen Nephroma arcticum due to low chemical defence
Authors: ASPLUND Johan , GAUSLAA Yngvar
Published: November 2009

Although the tripartite terricolous lichen Nephroma arcticum is easily accessible to lichen-feeding gastropods, grazing marks are mainly restricted to localized cephalodia with N-fixing Nostoc. We tested if this gastropod preference for cephalodia can be explained by differences in carbon based secondary compounds (CBSCs) in cyanobacterial versus green-algal tissues. CBSCs were non-destructively removed from air-dry thalli by 100% acetone. Compound deficient and control thallus parts were offered to the slug Arion fuscus and grazing preferences were quantified by area measurements in ArcGIS™. The concentrations of CBSCs (phenarctin, usnic acid, nephroarctin and methyl gyrophorate) in thallus parts with and without cephalodia were quantified with HPLC. Compared to purely green-algal parts, cephalodial parts with adjoining fungal tissues contained less defensive compounds, and were preferred by A. fuscus. The cephalodia themselves do not contain any CBSCs. After acetone rinsing, A. fuscus did not discriminate between green-algal and cyanobacterial parts. The results were consistent with the hypothesis that CBSCs in green-algal parts of N. arcticum play a herbivore-defensive role. It is further hypothesized that grazing of cephalodia may lead to N-starvation and reduced growth of N. arcticum thalli in southern portions of its range where lichenivorous gastropods are more abundant. This may play a role in shaping the southern distribution limit of this arctic-boreal lichen species.
Resolving the genusGraphinaMüll. Arg. in North America: new species, new combinations, and treatments forAcanthothecis, Carbacanthographis, andDiorygma
Authors: TRIPP Erin A. , LENDEMER James C. , HARRIS Richard C.
Published: November 2009

As part of our ongoing studies of theGraphidaceaein North America, we resolve the status of all taxa traditionally assigned to the genusGraphinathat have been reported from the continent north of Mexico. Treatments for the North American members ofAcanthothecis, Carbacanthographis, andDiorygmaare presented because several species ofGraphinahave been reassigned to these genera, and our studies of accumulated herbarium materials revealed the existence of several previously unreported and unrecognized species. The following new combinations are made:Acanthothecis leucopepla,A. mosquitensis,A. peplophora,andA. poitaeoides.Carbacanthographis muriformisis described as new to science based on material from Florida. The following taxa are reported from North America for the first time:Acanthothecis poitaeoides,Diorygma junghuhnii, D. reniforme.
Waynea giraltiae, a new lichen species from the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: van den BOOM Pieter P.G.
Published: November 2009

A new lichen species,Waynea giraltiaevan den Boom, is described from southern Portugal and Spain. It is characterized by a very fine tomentum on the squamulose thallus, fusiform, 3-septate ascospores, and strongly curved filiform conidia. It is the first species of the genus containing argopsin. The new species is compared with relatedWayneaspecies.Waynea creticais recorded as new to the Iberian Peninsula.
Two new species ofSyncesia(Arthoniales,Roccellaceae) from Africa
Authors: ERTZ Damien , KILLMANN Dorothee , RAZAFINDRAHAJA Tahina , SÉRUSIAUX Emmanuël , FISCHER Eberhard
Published: November 2009

Two new species ofSyncesiaare described, which differ from all other species of the genus by having more than 3-septate ascospores.Syncesia afromontanais characterized by a byssoid thallus and 7-septate ascospores, and is known only from the type locality in the Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda where it might be endemic.Syncesia madagascariensisis characterized by a crustose thallus and 5-septate ascospores, and is known only from the type locality in a montane forest in central Madagascar.
Predictors of suicidality across the life span: The Isle of Wight study
Authors: Pickles A. , Aglan A. , Collishaw S. , Messer J. , Rutter M. , Maughan B.
Published: November 2009

Background

Data from a representative community sample were used to explore predictors of lifetime suicidality and to examine associations between distal adolescent and more proximal adult risks.

Method

Data are from a midlife follow-up of the Isle of Wight study, an epidemiological sample of adolescents assessed in 1968. Ratings of psychiatric symptoms and disorder, relationships and family functioning and adversity were made in adolescence; adult assessments included lifetime psychiatric history and suicidality, neuroticism and retrospective reports of childhood sexual abuse and harsh parenting.

Results

A wide range of measures of childhood psychopathology, adverse experiences and interpersonal difficulties were associated with adult suicidality; associations were particularly strong for adolescent irritability, worry and depression. In multivariate analyses, substantial proportions of these effects could be explained by their association with adult psychopathology and neuroticism, but additional effects remained for adolescent irritability and worry.

Conclusions

Factors of importance for long-term suicidality risk are evident in adolescence. These include family and experiential adversities as well as psychopathology. In particular, markers of adolescent worry and irritability appeared both potent risks and ones with additional effects beyond associations with adult disorder and adult neuroticism.
Intermediate or brainless phenotypes for psychiatric research?
Authors: Meyer-Lindenberg A.
Published: November 2009

For highly heritable brain disorders, such as schizophrenia and autism, investigating genetic effects on the level of neural systems seems an obvious approach. Nevertheless, the usefulness of the intermediate phenotypes (‘endo’ phenotypes) continues to be debated energetically. We argue that, while not all intermediate phenotypes are created equal, the hypothesis-driven investigation of the translational cascades linking genetic variation to disturbed behavior is a viable and important strategy that should not be supplanted by an exclusive focus on brainless, clinical/categorical phenotypes investigated in very large numbers of participants.
Gender and the relationship between marital status and first onset of mood, anxiety and substance use disorders
Authors: Scott K. M. , Wells J. E. , Angermeyer M. , Brugha T. S. , Bromet E. , Demyttenaere K. , de Girolamo G. , Gureje O. , Haro J. M. , Jin R. , Karam A. Nasser , Kovess V. , Lara C. , Levinson D. , Ormel J. , Posada-Villa J. , Sampson N. , Takeshima T. , Zhang M. , Kessler R. C.
Published: November 2009

Background

Prior research on whether marriage is equally beneficial to the mental health of men and women is inconsistent due to methodological variation. This study addresses some prior methodological limitations and investigates gender differences in the association of first marriage and being previously married, with subsequent first onset of a range of mental disorders.

Method

Cross-sectional household surveys in 15 countries from the WHO World Mental Health survey initiative (n=34493), with structured diagnostic assessment of mental disorders using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0. Discrete-time survival analyses assessed the interaction of gender and marital status in the association with first onset of mood, anxiety and substance use disorders.

Results

Marriage (versus never married) was associated with reduced risk of first onset of most mental disorders in both genders; but for substance use disorders this reduced risk was stronger among women, and for depression and panic disorder it was confined to men. Being previously married (versus stably married) was associated with increased risk of all disorders in both genders; but for substance use disorders, this increased risk was stronger among women and for depression it was stronger among men.

Conclusions

Marriage was associated with reduced risk of the first onset of most mental disorders in both men and women but there were gender differences in the associations between marital status and onset of depressive and substance use disorders. These differences may be related to gender differences in the experience of multiple role demands within marriage, especially those concerning parenting.
Combating Child Poverty? A Multilevel Assessment of Family Policy Institutions and Child Poverty in 21 Old and New Welfare States
Authors: BÄCKMAN OLOF , FERRARINI TOMMY
Published: November 2009

This study analyses the links between family policy institutions and poverty in households with pre-school children in 21 old and new welfare democracies. New institutional information which enables a separation of different family policy dimensions is combined with micro data from the Luxembourg Income Study. Through statistical multilevel modelling, individual- and country-level data are combined in a simultaneous analysis of their relationships to child poverty risks. The results show that family policy transfers are related to lower child poverty risks at the micro level. However, the mechanisms by which such transfers reduce poverty vary by type of family support. Support to dual-earner families operates by enabling both parents to work and raise market income, while support to more traditional family structures in some instances has a more direct effect on poverty risks. The analysis also renders support to the hypothesis that dual-earner transfers also alleviate poverty most effectively among single-mother households.
Motoric characteristics of representational gestures produced by young children in a naming task
Authors: PETTENATI PAOLA , STEFANINI SILVIA , VOLTERRA VIRGINIA
Published: November 2009

This study explores the form of representational gestures produced by forty-five hearing children (age range 2 ; 0–3 ; 1) asked to label pictures in words. Five pictures depicting objects and five pictures depicting actions which elicited more representational gestures were chosen for more detailed analysis. The range of gestures produced for each item varied from 3 to 27 for a total of 128 gestures. Gestures have been analyzed with the same parameters used to describe signs produced by deaf children: handshape, location and movement. Results show that gestures for a given picture exhibit similarities in many of the parameters across children. Some motor characteristics found in the production of hearing toddlers' gestures are similar to those described for early signs. Implications of this similarity between gestural and signed linguistic representations in young children are discussed.
Epidemiology of bloodstream infections in patients with haematological malignancies with and without neutropenia
Authors: CHEN C.-Y. , TSAY W. , TANG J.-L. , TIEN H.-F. , CHEN Y.-C. , CHANG S.-C. , HSUEH P.-R.
Published: November 2009

All bacterial isolates from 7058 patients admitted to haemato-oncology wards at National Taiwan University Hospital between 2002 and 2006 were characterized. In total 1307 non-duplicate bloodstream isolates were made from all patients with haematological malignancy; 853 (65%) of these were from neutropenic patients. Gram-negative bacteria predominated (60%) in neutropenic isolates with Escherichia coli (12%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (10%), Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex (6%), and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (6%) the most frequent. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (19%) and Staphylococcus aureus (4%) were the most common Gram-positive pathogens. Resistance to ciprofloxacin was found in 50% of E. coli and 20% of K. pneumoniae isolates from neutropenic patients. Extensively drug-resistant A. calcoaceticus-baumannii complex and vancomycin-resistant enterococci were also found during the study period. Emerging antimicrobial resistant pathogens are an increasing threat to neutropenic cancer patients.