bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of encapsulated pleural effusions in children: A prospective trial
Authors: Kobr Jiri , Pizingerova Katerina , Sasek Lumir , Fremuth Jiri , Siala Konrad , Racek Jaroslav
Published: November 2009

Background:  The aim of this study was to improve the efficacy of treatment of complicated pleural effusions.

Methods:  In this prospective study, 76 consecutive children (average age 5.0 ± 4.14 years) fulfilling the required classification criteria were duly treated with chest tube placement and divided into two groups depending on the presence of encapsulated or non‐encapsulated effusions. Treatment of the former group was supplemented by intrapleural fibrinolysis. The effectiveness of treatment was assessed in terms of chest tube dwell‐time and total length of hospitalization. Regression analysis was performed using independent factors that were associated with these dependent factors. Value differences for P < 0.05 were considered significant.

Results:  The ultrasound pleural distance and lactic‐dehydrogenase content in the pleural fluid was significantly associated with the length of treatment (P < 0.01). Improved response to treatment, reduced duration of hospitalization (9.2 ± 1.9 vs 11.5 ± 0.9; P < 0.01) and tube dwell‐time (7.6 ± 1.3 vs 9.5 ± 0.9; P < 0.01) was achieved in the intrapleural‐fibrinolysis‐treated group (n= 38) compared with controls (n= 38), with virtually the same total tube output (606.1 ± 257.5 vs 673.1 ± 347.4; P= 0.175). All patients were completely cured. Following 104 applications of the fibrinolytic agent there was one change in coagulation parameters: hypofibrinogenemia (in 1%).

Conclusions:  The authors recommend intrapleural fibrinolysis as an effective and safe alternative treatment strategy in treating encapsulated pleural effusions in children.
Allelopathic potential of Cambodian rice lines under field conditions
Authors: PHENG SOPHEA , OLOFSDOTTER MARIA , JAHN GARY , NESBITT HARRY , ADKINS STEVE W.
Published: November 2009

A series of field experiments was conducted during 1999 and 2000 to study the effect of six Cambodian rice lines that had been selected for their allelopathic potential on the growth of three weed species (barnyardgrass, small umbrella sedge, and water primrose). The results from 2 years' study demonstrate that powerful weed‐establishment and growth‐suppressive mechanisms were present in all of the rice lines tested. This mechanism was equally active on all three weed species studied. Across all the rice lines and across all the weed species, weed establishment was reduced by 71%, the final plant height was reduced by 49%, and the dry biomass was reduced by 80%. A tentative comparison between the effects of the Cambodian rice lines and those of previously characterized allelopathic and non‐allelopathic rice lines revealed that approximately three‐quarters of the weed growth suppression in the Cambodian lines could be attributed to resource competition and one‐quarter could be attributed to allelopathy, although this analysis did not take into account morphological differences between the two types of rice. Such weed growth‐suppressing activity could be particularly useful in subsistence farming systems where the use of selective herbicides is prohibitive or when organic rice production is the objective. The use of rice lines that suppress the growth of weeds is likely to be a potent supplement to present weed management practises and will reduce production costs and the potential for environmental pollution, as well as alleviate some of the social constraints that are associated with labor‐intensive manual weeding.
A new variety of the weed Borreria densiflora DC. (Rubiaceae)
Authors: MARTINS BIANCA ASSIS BARBOSA , CABRAL ELSA LEONOR , SOUZA VINÍCIUS CASTRO , CHRISTOFFOLETI PEDRO JACOB
Published: November 2009

The weed, known commonly as vassourinha de botão (buttonweed), is present in several crops in northern and north‐eastern Brazil. Its occurrence is common in sugarcane and soybean crops in the states of Goiás, Tocantins, and Maranhão. However, there is no published information in the literature about its taxonomic classification. Thus, this research aimed to classify taxonomically this species in order to develop a classification key based on the morphological characteristics among varieties of Borreria densiflora DC., as well as to illustrate it and provide a palynological basis to classify this species as a new variety. For the classification process, data from the literature, morphological characteristics, and palynological evidence were considered. In this article, we describe a new variety, B. densiflora DC. var. latifolia E.L. Cabral & Martins. The new variety possesses a terrestrial habitat and it is a simple perennial weed species. These results show the importance of an accurate identification, as well as an understanding of the evolutionary changes inherent to weeds (like intraspecific variability), breeding system, genetic potential, and ecological studies. Those factors are essential to the beginning of a long‐term weed management strategy.
Increased foliar activity of clodinafop‐propargyl and/or tribenuron‐methyl by surfactants and their synergistic action on wild oat (Avena ludoviciana) and wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis)
Authors: ALIVERDI AKBAR , MOHASSEL MOHAMMAD HASSAN RASHED , ZAND ESKANDAR , MAHALLATI MEHDI NASSIRI
Published: November 2009

Surfactants can improve postemergence herbicide efficacy and reduce the amount of herbicide required to obtain weed control. The effect of surfactants on the efficacy of herbicides is complicated and depends on the interaction among the plant, surfactant, and herbicide. The effects of surfactants on the efficacy of clodinafop‐propargyl and/or tribenuron‐methyl on wild oat (Avena ludoviciana) and wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis) under greenhouse conditions were investigated. In addition, the surface tension of aqueous solutions of the surfactants and surfactants + herbicides was determined. Significantly lower surface tension values were obtained with the aqueous solutions of citofrigate (Citogate plus Frigate) alone and with the herbicides used in this study. The citofrigate surfactant lead to the greatest enhancement of clodinafop‐propargyl and/or tribenuron‐methyl efficacy and the effect was species‐dependent. The efficacy of clodinafop‐propargyl and/or tribenuron‐methyl in the presence of surfactants in controlling wild oat was higher than for wild mustard. The foliar activity of the tested herbicides rose with increasing surfactant concentrations. The tank mixture of clodinafop‐propargyl and tribenuron‐methyl showed a synergistic effect in controlling wild oat and wild mustard. The synergistic effect in controlling wild mustard was greater than for wild oat.
Effects of a magnetic field and adjuvant in the efficacy of cycloxydim and clodinafop‐propargyl on the control of wild oat (Avena fatua)
Authors: MOHASSEL MOHAMMAD HASSAN RASHED , ALIVERDI AKBAR , GHORBANI REZA
Published: November 2009

The reduction of herbicide applications is a main research priority in recent years. One way to achieve this goal is by using adjuvants that can increase the efficacy of foliar‐applied herbicides by reducing surface tension. Previous studies have shown that the surface tension of distilled water decreases under the influence of a magnetic field. In order to compare the effects of a magnetic field and Frigate in clodinafop‐propargyl and cycloxydim in controlling wild oat and evaluating the surface tension, a dose–response greenhouse experiment was conducted by using 0, 8, 16, 32, 48, and 64 g ai ha−1 of clodinafop‐propargyl and 0, 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 g ai ha−1 of cycloxydim with Frigate and/or by passing them through a magnetic field. The magnetic field and Frigate caused a significant reduction in the surface tension of the herbicide solutions. But, Frigate was more effective in reducing the surface tension of the herbicide solutions, compared with the magnetic field. The magnetic field and Frigate increased the efficacy of clodinafop‐propargyl and cycloxydim remarkably. Frigate increased the efficacy of the herbicides more than did the magnetic field. The magnetic field and Frigate collectively had more of an effect on the herbicides' efficacy than when they were applied individually. The magnetic field and Frigate were more effective in increasing the efficacy of clodinafop‐propargyl than that of cycloxydim.
Factors affecting the seed germination and seedling emergence of redflower ragleaf (Crassocephalum crepidioides)
Authors: NAKAMURA ICHIRO , HOSSAIN MOHAMMAD AMZAD
Published: November 2009

Redflower ragleaf (Crassocephalum crepidioides) is a weed, as well as a minor vegetable, in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The influence of environmental factors and seed conditions on the germination and emergence of redflower ragleaf have been evaluated in order to help understand its distribution and to develop effective management strategies. The seeds germinated at a constant temperature in the range of 10–30°C and reached a maximum at 15–20°C. The highest germination rate was recorded at an alternating temperature of 20/15°C (day/night). The seeds germinated over a wide pH range (2–12), with the highest germination rate at between 4 and 10. Germination under saturated and flooded conditions was also high. The germination of seeds from opened (mature) capitula was significantly higher than from partially opened or unopened capitula. The germination of seeds without a pappus was significantly higher than for seeds with a pappus. The germination rate of 1 year old seeds decreased drastically when compared to that of freshly harvested seeds. The seedling emergence rate was ∼63% for those seeds placed on the soil surface, but no seedling emerged from a depth of ≥1 cm. These results indicate that redflower ragleaf seeds can germinate in various environmental conditions, but that the percentage that germinates will be different in different environments. Regeneration could be effectively prevented by at least a 1 cm soil covering or by destroying the plant before the capitula open. In contrast, freshly harvested seeds from opened capitula should be sown on the soil surface when redflower ragleaf is to be cultivated as a vegetable.
Determination of SIFs, crack‐tip coordinates and crack angle of anisotropic materials
Authors: JU S.H. , CHIU C.Y. , JHAO B.J.
Published: November 2009

This paper investigates the accuracy of a numerical method incorporating an image‐correlation experiment for finding the crack‐tip coordinates, the axes of the measurement and the mixed‐mode stress intensity factors (SIFs) of anisotropic materials. Finite element and experimental simulations in this paper indicate that the proposed linear search method incorporating Powell's method is considerably stable for finding the unknown crack‐tip coordinates and measurement axes, even though the initial input is far away from the actual data. Moreover, the displacement field very near the crack tip is not necessary. In the experimental validation, the maximum SIF error of the image‐correlation experiment is about 9%, which should be acceptable for the mixed‐mode fracture problems.
Salvage high‐intensity focused ultrasound for biopsy‐confirmed local recurrence of prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Murota‐Kawano Akiko , Nakano Mayura , Hongo Sachiko , Shoji Sunao , Nagata Yoshihiro , Uchida Toyoaki
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Therapy (case series)  Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To present experience in high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) used as a salvage therapy for biopsy‐confirmed local recurrence at the vesico‐urethral anastomosis after radical prostatectomy (RP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From July 2006, four patients diagnosed with prostate cancer recurrence after RP were treated with HIFU, with or without salvage radiotherapy, using the Sonablate® 500 (Focus Surgery, IN, USA). Biochemical failure was defined as in increase in prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level of >0.2 ng/mL. No patients received any adjuvant therapy after HIFU therapy before reporting failure.

RESULTS

The mean age and initial PSA level before RP was 74 years and 10.0 ng/mL, respectively. After RP, one patient was stage T2aN0M0, two were stage T3N0M0 and the last had an unknown pathological stage. Three patients received external beam radiotherapy as salvage therapy after RP. The mean PSA level before HIFU, tumour volume at the vesico‐urethral lesion and operative duration were 4.3 ng/mL, 4.6 mL and 27 min, respectively. Adenocarcinomas were confirmed by biopsy of the tumour at the vesico‐urethral anastomotic lesion before HIFU. At 24 months of follow‐up, patients 2 and 4 were classified a biochemically disease‐free. Biopsies at the anastomotic site after HIFU in three patients showed no malignancy, with fibrosis. There were no complications.

CONCLUSION

Salvage HIFU for patients with recurrence after RP is feasible, even though they received salvage radiotherapy before HIFU. More patients and a longer follow‐up are needed to evaluate the safety and oncological adequacy of this new approach.
Evaluation of a severity score to predict the prognosis of Fournier’s gangrene
Authors: Luján Marco Saturnino , Budía Alberto , Di Capua Carlos , Broseta Enrique , Cruz Fernando Jiménez
Published: November 2009

Study Type – Prognosis (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To determine the validity of a Fournier’s gangrene severity index (FGSI), developed to assign a numerical score describing the severity of FG, and evaluate factors in the survival of patients with FG.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 51 patients diagnosed with FG between 1994 and 2006. Data were collected on their medical history, which included vital signs (temperature, heart and respiratory rates) and metabolic variables (sodium, potassium, creatinine, bicarbonate levels, haematocrit, and white blood cell count). We computed a score relating to the severity of the disease at the time, and compared it to other features according to whether the patient survived or died. The different prognostic factors were assessed by univariate analysis with the Mann–Whitney U and Kendall A‐B tests.

RESULTS

Of the evaluated 51 inpatients, eight died (16%) and 43 survived (84%). The median (range) age was 63 (17–85) years and the median time from the onset of the symptoms until the admission to the emergency room was 7.8 (1–60) days. The mean hospital stay was 33 (2–90) days and 17 patients were admitted to the intensive‐care unit for a mean of 4.5 days. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups. Body surfaces involved were the scrotum in five patients (10%), the penis and scrotum in 11 (22%), the scrotum and perineum in 30 (59%) and the abdominal wall in five (10%). There was no statistically significant difference in the distribution in those who survived or died (P = 0.131). The median age of 60 (17–81) years in the survivors was significantly lower than that of 73.5  (50–85) years in those who died (P = 0.02). There was no significant difference (P = 0.06) between the number of repeated debridements in the survivors (3.23) and those who died (5.25). The mean (range) FGSI score for survivors was 6.7 (0–14), vs 8.7 (6–13) for those who died (P = 0.12). The only laboratory variables associated with death were serum bicarbonate (P = 0.04) and serum sodium (P = 0.02) levels.

CONCLUSIONS

FG is an unpredictable disease process with wide variability in its presentation. In our experience, the FGSI gives no indication of the likelihood of survival, but the risk factors for predicting the severity of FG seem to be greater in older patients and those with high sodium and low bicarbonate levels.
RESEARCH SECTION: Examining the nature and perceived causes of indiscipline in Zimbabwean secondary schools
Authors: Ametepee Lawrence K. , Chitiyo Morgan , Abu Susan
Published: November 2009

The problem of student indiscipline is an issue of concern for teachers and parents around the world. Teachers need to maintain student discipline and for them to do so it is important that they also understand the nature of discipline problems. This study, by Lawrence Kofi Ametepee, who is studying for a PhD in special education, Morgan Chitiyo, board certified behaviour analyst and Assistant Professor of Special Education, both at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, USA, and Susan Abu, who is currently a graduate student in the Department of Women's Studies at Texas Women's University, was designed to examine the nature and perceived causes of student indiscipline in Zimbabwean secondary schools. The authors anticipate that such an examination will promote teachers’, parents’ and policy makers’ understanding of student indiscipline, which will, in turn, enhance disciplinary policies and practices, making schools safer for all students and more effective in their role as educational and socialising agents.
AD/HD: The role of teachers in the assessment of children suspected of having AD/HD
Authors: Salmon Gill , Kirby Amanda
Published: November 2009

In the light of recent guidance published by The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) on the diagnosis and management of attention deficit disorders in children, young persons and adults, Gill Salmon, a consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist based in Swansea, South Wales, and Amanda Kirby, Professor of Developmental Disorders in Education based at the University of Wales, Newport, give an overview of the rationale for involving teachers in the assessment of children with AD/HD and the development and implementation of subsequent educational interventions. They also review the resulting training implications; explore some of the obstacles to multi‐agency, multi‐disciplinary working; and examine how current special educational needs policy goes hand‐in‐hand with the tiered approach to provision of child and adolescent mental health services in offering a graduated response to these children.
How effective is parental prosecution as a method of improving school attendance among primary‐aged children?
Authors: WRIGHT CAROLINE
Published: November 2009

Just under half a million children and young people in state schools in England miss school every day. Indeed, improving school attendance has remained a key aim for successive governments. Various strategies have been adopted at both national and local levels in an attempt to tackle the persistent issue of school attendance with varying degrees of success. This study explores the effectiveness of one of those strategies – that of parental prosecutions – as a means of improving children and young people's school attendance. It reports on the effectiveness of parental prosecutions while highlighting some of the emerging patterns among a cohort of those prosecuted within one local authority during one academic year.
The train drivers' strike in Germany 2007–2008: warnings for the future of the German trade union movement?
Authors: Hoffmann Jürgen , Schmidt Rudi
Published: November 2009

The authors review the strike that took place during 2007–08 that was called by the oldest existing German trade union, the professional union of train drivers Gewerkschaft Deutscher Lokführer (GDL). In so doing, the outcome of the strike is analysed, together with the dynamics of relationship between the GDL, the industrial union TRANSNET, the Gewerkschaft der Bahnbeamten und Anwärter (DBDA), the union of the civil servants employed by the German railway, and the railway company Deutsche Bahn (DB AG). These relationships are examined as paradigmatic of politics of a particularistic organisation like GDL and for politics of an encompassing organisation like TRANSNET. These relationships raise the question: would the growth of professional unions in Germany lead to an erosion of the German system of industrial relations, which currently is still relatively stable due to the predominance of encompassing industrial unions?
Recast directive on European works councils: cosmetic surgery or substantial progress?
Authors: Jagodziński Romuald
Published: November 2009

Overdue by nine years, contested by employers and awaited by trade unions, a review of the European works council Directive 94/45/EC finally became reality in 2009. This article presents background information about the positions of the European social partners and other institutional EU actors in order to understand the outcome of the events of 2008–09. Focus is directed towards providing a general overview of the new elements in the recast directive on European works councils (EWCs). Keeping the different views on EWCs of the social partners in perspective, the article argues that the recast directive, despite its shortcomings, represents progress rather than superficial cosmetic surgery.
The presence of a vocal ligament in fetuses: a histochemical and ultrastructural study
Authors: Nita Luciana M. , Battlehner Claudia N. , Ferreira Marcelo A. , Imamura Rui , Sennes Luiz U. , Caldini Elia G. , Tsuji Domingos H.
Published: November 2009

Although it is currently believed that the vocal ligament of humans undergoes considerable development postnatally, there is no consensus as to the age at which it first emerges. In the newborn infant, the lamina propria has been described as containing a sparse collection of relatively unorganized fibres. In this study we obtained larynges from autopsy of human fetuses aged 7–9 months and used light and electron microscopy to study the collagenous and elastic system fibres in the lamina propria of the vocal fold. Collagen fibres were viewed using the Picrosirius polarization method and elastic system fibres were stained using Weigert’s resorcin–fuchsin after oxidation with oxone. The histochemical and electron microscopic observations were consistent, showing collagen populations with an asymmetric distribution across different compartments of the lamina propria. In the central region, the collagen appeared as thin, weakly birefringent, greenish fibres when viewed using the Picrosirius polarization method, whereas the superficial and deep regions contained thick collagen fibres that displayed a strong red or yellow birefringence. These findings suggest that the thin fibres in the central region consist mainly of type III collagen, whereas type I collagen predominates in the superficial and deep regions, as has been reported in studies of adult vocal folds. Similarly, elastic system fibres showed a differential distribution throughout the lamina propria. Their distribution pattern was complementary to that of collagen fibres, with a much greater density of elastic fibres apparent in the central region than in the superficial and deep regions. This distribution of collagen and elastic fibres in the fetal vocal fold mirrors that classically described for the adult vocal ligament, suggesting that a vocal ligament has already begun to develop by the time of birth. The apparently high level of organization of connective tissue components in the newborn is in contrast to current hypotheses that argue that the mechanical stimuli of phonation are essential to the determination of the layered structure of the lamina propria and suggests that genetic factors may play a more significant role in the development of the vocal ligament than previously believed.
Immunohistochemical detection of estrogen receptor β in alveolar bone cells of estradiol‐treated female rats: possible direct action of estrogen on osteoclast life span
Authors: Cruzoé‐Souza Mady , Sasso‐Cerri Estela , Cerri Paulo S.
Published: November 2009

The role of estrogen in bone resorption has been specifically related to the effect of estrogen on the signalling pathway that inhibits the formation of osteoclasts. However, osteoclast apoptosis and a significant reduction in the number of these cells have been observed in the alveolar bone of female rats treated with estradiol. In the present study, the expression of estrogen receptor β (ERβ) in the cells of alveolar bone was evaluated in estradiol‐treated and ‐untreated female rats. In order to test the possible direct action of estrogen on osteoclasts, the relationship between apoptosis and ERβ expression in these cells was also analysed. The animals received estradiol for 14 days and the alveolar bone fragments were embedded in paraffin for the quantification of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐positive osteoclasts. The expression of ERβ and apoptosis in the osteoclasts were evaluated by ERβ immunohistochemistry and Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP Nick‐End Labelling (TUNEL) methods, respectively. To confirm osteoclast death by apoptosis, these cells were analysed under transmission electron microscopy. Some osteoclasts from estradiol‐treated animals were found to be undergoing apoptosis and the number of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐positive osteoclasts was significantly reduced. ERβ immunolabelling was observed in the cytoplasm and nuclei of active osteoblasts, osteocytes and osteoclasts in both groups, suggesting a direct participation of estrogen on alveolar bone cells. However, following estradiol treatment, a strong ERβ immunolabelling was often observed in the TUNEL‐positive osteoclasts. Therefore, these results indicate that, in addition to the other signalling pathway, the reduction of alveolar bone resorption is also related to a direct action of estrogen on osteoclasts, promoting apoptosis in these cells, via ERβ.
The state of consumer health information: an overview
Authors: Smith Sarah , Duman Mark
Published: November 2009

Background:  Consumer health information is becoming increasingly important and health policy in the UK is beginning to reflect this. This has implications for information producers, providers and users, with the move towards a more patient‐centred health service.

Objectives:  This review aims to provide a broad overview of the current state of consumer health information in the UK. It examines the changing roles of information producers, providers and users, exploring the impact of health literacy and new technologies. It features some of the current library and consumer health information projects taking place in the UK and discusses the role that libraries may play in the future.

Methods:  The article focuses on consumer health information in a policy context. It is based on the experiences of the authors' work for the Patient Information Forum and knowledge of consumer health information. A number of library and information professionals were consulted regarding the library and information projects.

Conclusions:  Communication between health professionals and patients, and between health educators and the public, is key in order for consumer health information to have the ability to improve health outcomes. Further, especially local, investment into the production, distribution and delivery of consumer health information is recommended.
Trichloroethylene induces dopaminergic neurodegeneration in Fisher 344 rats
Authors: Liu Mei , Choi Dong‐Young , Hunter Randy L. , Pandya Jignesh D. , Cass Wayne A. , Sullivan Patrick G. , Kim Hyoung‐Chun , Gash Don M. , Bing Guoying
Published: November 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 773–783.

Trichloroethylene, a chlorinated solvent widely used as a degreasing agent, is a common environmental contaminant. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic exposure to trichloroethylene may contribute to the development of Parkinson’s disease. The purpose of this study was to determine if selective loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons could be reproduced by systemic exposure of adult Fisher 344 rats to trichloroethylene. In our experiments, oral administration of trichloroethylene induced a significant loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta in a dose‐dependent manner, whereas the number of both cholinergic and GABAergic neurons were not decreased in the striatum. There was a robust decline in striatal levels of 3, 4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid without a significant depletion of striatal dopamine. Rats treated with trichloroethylene showed defects in rotarod behavior test. We also found a significantly reduced mitochondrial complex I activity with elevated oxidative stress markers and activated microglia in the nigral area. In addition, we observed intracellular α‐synuclein accumulation in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve, with some in nigral neurons, but little in neurons of cerebral cortex. Overall, our animal model exhibits some important features of Parkinsonism, and further supports that trichloroethylene may be an environmental risk factors for Parkinson’s disease.
An Edge Detection Algorithm for Photoelasticity Analysis
Authors: Sliž R. , Chang M.‐Y.
Published: November 2009

Abstract:  Photoelasticity has become a modern tool of stress analysis which is capable of competing with other tools employed currently, including finite element analysis. Improved model production and automated fringe analysis allow us to perform investigations of complex models, speeding up the rate of analysis and reducing the action by users, consequently automating the whole process. However, before automated fringe analysis, the mask of the model should be extracted. The authors discuss the development of a new algorithm to detect the mask of the model by analysing isochromatic fringe patterns used in photoelasticity. It is important to know the mask of the model for its analysis and to obtain a stress map. Unlike the available edge algorithms or any other techniques used to detect a model's mask, the proposed algorithm was developed to minimise user action, allowing the process to be automated. There is a major difference between the area of the background and area of the model from the point of view of image processing. Grey level of points inside the background region are distributed along the tilted plane with low total variance, and those points inside the model regions are distributed along the isochromatic fringes having the shape of a wave. The variance of certain areas is measured with respect to the approximated plane created over such area from the grey level of each point. Areas having low variance are then selected and extended to true boundaries based on the fact that edges are characterised by a huge jump in the grey level. The proposed method is validated experimentally for a plate with multiple cutouts in a dark field and a circular disc under diametric compressive load with frozen stress in white field.
Biosecurity and the international response to HIV/AIDS: governmentality, globalisation and security
Authors: Ingram Alan
Published: November 2009

A growing critical literature examines the rise of biosecurity. HIV/AIDS has been mentioned in this literature as a biosecurity issue, but despite its importance as a major global health problem, the ways in which HIV/AIDS might be considered a matter of biosecurity have not been explored in depth. This article addresses this issue, particularly in relation to the international response to HIV/AIDS, through the conceptual prism of governmentality and in relation to concerns about globalisation and security. Following a discussion of the relevance of governmentality to research on the intersections between globalisation and security, the article considers biosecurity and the international response to HIV/AIDS in terms of modes of problematisation and institutionalisation. In terms of problematisation, it argues that while some biosecurity issues and HIV/AIDS have been addressed as emergencies, the characteristics of anticipation, preparedness, emergence and pre‐emption, which are central to the dominant formation of biosecurity, are less relevant to HIV/AIDS. As the article shows, the two fields have also been institutionalised in rather distinct ways. It therefore cautions against regarding the international response to HIV/AIDS as a biosecurity intervention. In conclusion, the article identifies three broad avenues for further research: unpacking the politics of global health and security during recession; engaging with theoretical debates around governmentality; and engaging with problems of space.
DO MULTIPLE LARGE SHAREHOLDERS PLAY A CORPORATE GOVERNANCE ROLE? EVIDENCE FROM EAST ASIA
Authors: Attig Najah , El Ghoul Sadok , Guedhami Omrane
Published: November 2009

We examine the governance role of multiple large shareholder structures (MLSS) to determine their valuation effects in a sample of 1,252 publicly traded firms from nine East Asian economies. We find that the presence, number, and size of multiple large shareholders are associated with a significant valuation premium. Our results also show that the identity of MLSS influences corporate value and that the valuation effects of MLSS are more pronounced in firms with greater agency costs. Our results imply that MLSS play a valuable monitoring role in curbing the diversion of corporate resources.
Effect of antivenin dose on outcome from crotalid envenomation: 218 dogs (1988–2006)
Authors: McCown Jennifer L. , Cooke Kirsten L. , Hanel Rita M. , Jones Galin L. , Hill Richard C.
Published: November 2009

Objective
–
To determine whether the dose of antivenin administered is associated with a difference in survival of crotalid‐envenomated dogs. A secondary objective was to determine whether other covariables affect survival.

Design
–
Retrospective study (1988–2006).

Setting
–
Private referral center and university small animal teaching hospital.

Animals
–
Two hundred and eighteen dogs with evidence of crotalid envenomation and treatment with equine‐derived antivenin.

Interventions
–
Administration of antivenin.

Measurements and Main Results
–
Patient signalment, physical and clinicopathologic data at time of presentation, treatments, complications of antivenin therapy, length and cost of hospitalization, and outcome were recorded. Confidence intervals were determined for the difference in median number of vials administered and for median dosage for patients that lived versus died. Penalized logistic regression was performed to evaluate the effect of other covariables on survival. The median age of affected dogs was 3 years (range 6  w–12  y) with a median weight of 25.7 kg (range 1.95–86.4 kg). The median number of antivenin vials administered was 1.0 (range 1.0–10.0). Acute and chronic reactions were reported in 7% (16/218) and 0.9% (2/218) of dogs, respectively. Nine of 218 dogs (4.1%) died. The median number of vials administered to the nonsurvivors and survivors were 2.0 (range 1–5 vials) and 1.0 (range 1–10 vials), respectively. The median number of vials received was significantly different in dogs that died versus those that lived (P<0.05). Increased heart rate (P=0.02) and petechiation (P=0.04) were associated with decreased likelihood of survival, while diphenhydramine (P=0.02) and fluoroquinolone (P=0.046) administration was associated with increased likelihood of survival. The median duration of hospitalization was 1.0 day (range 2 h–22 d). The median cost of hospitalization was US$1592.00 (range US$267.20–US$6738.00).

Conclusion
–
The administration of more vials of antivenin is potentially associated with negative outcome; however, a causal relationship has not been established. Controlled, prospective studies are needed to optimize antivenin administration.
Subcutaneous Sumatriptan Pharmacokinetics: Delimiting the Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor Effect
Authors: Fox Anthony W.
Published: November 2009

(Headache 2010;50:249‐255)

Background.— The absolute bioavailability of subcutaneous (s.c.) sumatriptan is 96‐100%. The decay curve for plasma concentration after 6 mg s.c. sumatriptan (ie, after Tmax = about 0.2 hours) includes a large distribution component. Metabolism by monoamine oxidase‐A (MAO‐A) leads to about 40% of the s.c. dose appearing in the urine as the inactive indole acetic acid. Product labeling states that co‐administration of an inhibitor of MAO‐A (a MAOI‐A) causes a 2‐fold increase in sumatriptan plasma concentrations, and a 40% increase in elimination half‐life.

Objective.— The objective of this study is to determine whether MAOI‐A therapy should deter the use of 6 mg s.c. sumatriptan on pharmacokinetic grounds.

Methods.— Summary pharmacokinetic data were taken from the literature and from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) study C92‐050. Half‐times were converted into rate constants, which were then used in a parsimonious compartmental model (needing only 3 simultaneous differential equations). Acceptance criteria for the model included observed plasma sumatriptan concentrations at Tmax, 1, 2, and 10 hours post‐dose. A set of 1000 concentration measurements at a resolution of 36 seconds was generated. The model was then perturbed with elimination constants observed during concomitant moclobemide administration, creating a second set of concentration measurements. The 2 sets were then plotted, examined for their differences, and integrated for a second time to obtain and compare areas under the curve (AUCs).

Results.— The greatest absolute difference between the 2 sets of measurements was 2.85 ng/mL at t = 2.95 hours. A 2‐fold difference between the 2 sets occurred only after t = 5.96 hours, when the concentration in the presence of the MAOI‐A was 3.72 ng/mL (or <4% of Cmax). At t = 10 hours, the concentrations in both sets were <1 ng/mL (ie, below the lower limit of assay quantitation), and AUC0‐10h was 97.4 and 117 ng.hour/mL in the absence and presence of the MAOI‐A.

Conclusions.— There are no pharmacokinetic grounds to deter co‐administration of an MAOI‐A and subcutaneous sumatriptan. The dominance of the distribution phase and completeness of absorption of a 6 mg dose of s.c. sumatriptan explains the trivial effect size of the MAOI‐A on plasma sumatriptan concentrations. Importantly, these findings should not be extrapolated to other routes of administration for sumatriptan.
Top Ten List of Long‐Term Care Facility Preparations for the Upcoming Influenza Season
Authors: Pierce J. Rush , Kellie Susan M. , West Theresa A. , Richardson J. Matthew , Neale Devon A. , Montgomery Ona G. , McClure Stephanie C. , Bell Todd E.
Published: November 2009

A novel influenza A partly of virus of swine origin (2009 H1N1) emerged this spring, resulting in an influenza pandemic. This pandemic is anticipated to continue into the next influenza season. Given that the 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza A appear to be somewhat different in the human populations affected and that two influenza vaccines will be recommended this fall, those who manage long‐term care facilities and treat patients in them will be faced with many uncertainties as they approach the 2009/10 influenza season. Ten specific suggestions are offered to those responsible for the care of patients in long‐term care facilities regarding the upcoming influenza season. These practical suggestions are the clinical opinions of the authors and do not represent official recommendations of the American Geriatrics Society or any agency.
Safety of Deferring the Reimplantation of Pacing Systems After Their Removal for Infectious Complications in Selected Patients: A 1‐Year Follow‐Up Study
Authors: MARIJON ELOI , DE GUILLEBON MAXIME , BORDACHAR PIERRE , JACOB SOPHIE , VAHDAT OLIVIER , SIDOBRE LAURENT , DEPLAGNE ANTOINE , COMBES NICOLAS , ALBENQUE JEAN‐PAUL , CLEMENTY JACQUES , HAISSAGUERRE MICHEL , RITTER PHILIPPE , BOVEDA SERGE
Published: November 2009

Introduction:
Recent expert consensus guidelines mention that one of the principles for infected device replacement following removal is to “reevaluate carefully if there is a continued need for a new cardiac device replacement.” This is a Class I recommendation, which nevertheless suffers from a very low level of evidence (level of evidence C), since no study has revisited the systematic practice of reimplanting the same device based on a meticulous clinical reassessment. In the present paper, we examined the safety of withholding the implantation of pacing systems in selected patients.

Methods and Results:
Between January 2005 and December 2007, 188 consecutive patients underwent extractions of infected pacing systems at 2 medical centers. “Low‐risk” patients were identified by (1) a spontaneous heart rate >45 bpm, (2) no symptomatic asystole during monitoring, (3) QRS duration <120 ms when history of AV block was noted, (4) no high‐degree AV block during continuous monitoring. They remained device‐free, unless an adverse clinical event occurred mandating the reimplantation. The primary study endpoint was rate of sudden death and syncope after a 12‐month follow‐up. Among the 74 (39.4%) “low‐risk” patients, a single patient suffered a bradycardia‐related syncopal event corresponding to a 1.3% (95% CI, 0.0–3.9) rate of primary endpoint. Pacing systems were also reimplanted in 24 patients (32.4%) for syncope (n = 1), nonsevere bradycardia‐reated symptoms (n = 17), cardiac resynchronization (n = 2), and for reassurance in 4 asymptomatic patients.

Conclusion:
After removal of infected pacing systems, these preliminary data demonstrated that a strategy of nonsystematic device reimplantation associated with close surveillance was safe in “low‐risk” patients, allowing the administration of antimicrobials in a device‐free state. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 540‐544, May 2010)
The Relevance of Husserl's Theory to Language Socialization
Authors: Duranti Alessandro
Published: November 2009

This article suggests that the theory of language socialization could benefit from adopting some key concepts originally introduced by the philosopher Edmund Husserl in the first part of the twentieth century. In particular, it focuses on Husserl's notion of “(phenomenological) modification,” to be understood as a change in “the natural attitude” that humans have toward the phenomenal world, their own actions included. After providing examples of different kinds of modifications in interpreting language and listening to music, Husserl's notion of “theoretical attitude” (a modification of “the natural attitude”) is introduced and shown to be common in adult conversations as well as in interactions between adults and young children. A reanalysis of an exchange previously examined byPlatt (1986) between a Samoan mother and her son is provided to show the benefits of an integration of phenomenological and interactional perspectives on adult‐child discourse. Finally, it is suggested that the failure sometimes experienced by children and adults to adopt new ways of being may be due to the accumulated effects of modifications experienced earlier in life which make it difficult if not impossible to retrieve earlier, premodificational ways of being. [language socialization, phenomenology, jazz aesthetics, Samoan child language]
Daily Wires and Daily Blossoms: Cultivating Regimes of Circulation in Tamil India's Newspaper Revolution
Authors: Cody Francis
Published: November 2009

Two of Tamil India's most popular newspapers both claim to be using “spoken” as opposed to “written” varieties of Tamil, despite appealing to different class and gender sensibilities. Developing a method that can take into account the relations among (1) explicit metadiscourses on journalistic language, (2) variegated reading practices, and (3) the formal qualities of newspapers as text artifacts, I argue that what is at stake in the difference between the two papers in my comparison is in fact a difference inregimes of circulation—cultivated habits of animating artifactually mediated texts, enabling the movement of discourse along predictable social trajectories. Claims to using the language of speech in the press refer to two very different phenomena: a Tamil written to be spoken aloud at the point of reading in one paper, and a “spoken Tamil” made to be read silently in the other.[media, publics, reading, textuality, circulation, India]
Politiques sociales et politiques du travail d'inspiration néolibérale: les leçons de l'expérience latino‐américaine
Authors: FRAILE Lydia
Published: November 2009

Cette introduction aux études nationales qui suivent montre que les politiques sociales et du travail inspirées par le consensus de Washington – appliquées en Amérique latine dans les années quatre‐vingt et quatre‐vingt‐dix – n'ont pas donné les résultats escomptés. Flexibilisation du travail, décentralisation de la négociation, privatisation des retraites et autres mesures ont débouché sur des dégradations en matière d'emploi informel, d'inégalités et de protection sociale. Les mesures n'ont pas réussi à stimuler l'emploi. Mais des leçons ont été tirées: on est revenu sur nombre de ces politiques et des signes indiqueraient qu'une approche politique plus équilibrée émerge en Amérique latine.
The development of PCR‐based markers for molecular sex identification in the model insect species Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Lagisz Malgorzata , Wilde Katie E. , Wolff Kirsten
Published: November 2009

The red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), is a major pest of stored grain and cereal crops. It is also an important model species in genetic, ecological, and evolutionary research. The majority of its genome was recently sequenced and published. However, the genomic sequence of the small Y‐chromosome is still undetermined, which hinders the development of molecular sex identification methods. Traditional methods for sexing adult forms of Tribolium beetles are troublesome. Therefore, a method for molecular sex identification in the red flour beetle was developed. One sex‐linked randomly amplified polymorphic DNA marker was converted into a sequence‐characterized amplified region (SCAR). The SCAR was aligned with the T. castaneum reference whole‐genome sequence and fully matched a fragment of a single contig of unknown genomic location. The novelty of the method is that the fragment consists of shorter DNA fragments that are also present at other locations around the genome, but the particular order of these fragments within the sequenced region appeared to be Y‐specific and this property was utilized for marker development. A set of three primers for multiplex PCR reaction was designed resulting in amplification of different length Y‐specific and not‐Y‐specific (control) DNA fragments in a single PCR, which allows to distinguish males from females. The primers successfully sexed pre‐sexed pupae and adult beetles from six laboratory strains, showing that the order of the repeated fragments is conserved in the species and is not strain‐specific.