bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutis marmorata telangiectatica with Multiple Congenital Anomalies (van Lohuizen’s Syndrome)
Authors: Lee Sungnack , Lee Jung Bock , Kim Ji Ho , Kim Kir-Young , Lee Seung Hun
Published: October 2009

A 5-year-old Korean boy with diagnosis of cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita had a bluish-red, widespread livedo network over the entire body surface. There was skin atrophy as well as ulceration and crust over some of the lesions. These abnormalities have been associated with mental retardation with abnormal EEG findings, speech disability, defective growth, cleft palate, presence of simian lines and an increase in the atd angles of both palms, diffuse demineralization of bony structure and weakness of the long extensor muscles of both thumbs. Based on our clinical datas and review of world literature, it would seem to be necessary to change the terminology.
‘Papillomatose papuleuse confluente et réticulée Gougerot- Carteaud’ – A Further Form of Skin Amyloidosis?
Authors: Groh Veronika , Schnyder Urs W. , Sigg Christian
Published: October 2009

In 2 cases with the classical clinical features described in connection with papillomatose papuleuse confluente et réticulée amyloid deposits could be demonstrated by histochemical (alkaline Congo red and thioflavin T reaction) and electron microscopical means. These results allow to discuss the nosological position of this disease.
Syndrome of Ichthyosis congenita, Neurosensory Deafness, Oligophrenia, Dental Aplasia, Brachydactyly, Clinodactyly, Accessory Cervical Ribs and Carcinoma of the Thyroid
Authors: Ruzicka Thomas , Goerz Günter , Anton-Lamprecht Ingrun
Published: October 2009

We report the case of a 15-year-old girl with an uneventful family history. Her skin condition was clinically, histologically and ultrastructurally compatible with the diagnosis of ichthyosis congenita. She suffered from neurosensory deafness and oligophrenia. Further findings included dental aplasia, brachydactyly, clinodactyly and accessory cervical ribs. At the age of 14, a thyroid carcinoma was diagnosed. Therapy with a retinoid derivative (Ro 10–9359) resulted in a marked improvement of the ichthyosis. We assume a genetic syndrome with autosomal-recessive inheritance.
X-Linked Ichthyosis
Authors: Mesquita-Guimarães José
Published: October 2009

In the epidermis from 4 cases of X-linked ichthyosis, granular cells contained a large number of keratohyalin granules of irregular surface, the largest ones having a spongy appearance. Keratinosomes were normal both in number and degree of extrusion. Corneal cells were linked by desmosomal discs up to the most superficial layers. The abnormal persistence of desmosomal discs may be a consequence of a decrease in the activity of acid hydrolases within the keratinosomes. In corneal cells there were a great number of melanosomes with normal appearance which may be responsible for scale pigmentation. Such increased number may be attributed to a deficiency in melanosome spontaneous degradation, rather than to an increased formation.
Recurrent Chronic Pyoderma with Cellular Immunodeficiency
Authors: Djawari D. , Hornstein O.P.
Published: October 2009

In a 21-year-old male patient afflicted with widespread recurrent pyoderma resistent to antimicrobial therapy since 3 years, a deficient state of cellular immunity including dysfunctions of both microphages and T lymphocytes was disclosed. After 6 weeks of systemic treatment with levamisole all lesions cleared completely, whereas appropriate long-term antibiotic therapy previously administered had failed to succeed. The immunological parameters, as far as being reexamined, also returned to normal levels during levamisole therapy.
Palmoplantar Hyperhidrosis
Authors: Jensen Ove , Karlsmark Tony
Published: October 2009

16 patients with palmar and/or plantar hyperhidrosis were treated with topically applied aluminium chloride hexahydrate in a 25% solution in absolute ethyl alcohol. Compared to treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis this formulation seems to be less effective, but a controlled study is needed. A simple method for transpiration measurement is described. It may be useful in daily practice to control the effect of the treatment.
Two Cases of Infantile and Familial Porphyria cutanea tarda
Authors: Prado Cruces , de Salamanca Emiquez , Hernando Verea , Payero Peña , Beltran Catalan , Aguilar Robledo
Published: October 2009

In 2 children, both 7 years old, and with an obvious presence of clinical symptoms, the diagnosis of porphyria cutanea tarda was corroborated by the characteristic patterns of urinary and fecal porphyrin excretion. Familial studies allowed us to consider both cases as hereditary.
Dermatitis herpetiformis and Vitiligo
Authors: Ølholm-Larsen Poul , Kavli Gunnar
Published: October 2009

A 36-year-old woman developed vitiligo in areas with active dermatitis herpetiformis. Both diseases have been associated with autoimmune disorders. However, in the present case the vitiligo is believed to be an isomorphic reaction to the dermatitis herpetiformis lesions.
Disseminated Neonatal Herpes simplex Infection Treated with Levamisole
Authors: Constantopoulos A. , Lagos P. , Benetos S. , Matsaniotis N.
Published: October 2009

Levamisole has been used to treat a patient with disseminated neonatal herpes simplex infection. The skin lesions and the convulsions disappeared completely 20 days after therapy. A trial to reduce the dose of levamisole resulted in a new episode of seizures and skin lesions. A similar relapse was observed at the age of 7 months, which resulted in control of symptoms by increasing the dose of levamisole. The patient has received levamisole for 20 months. She is now 29 months old and is doing well without levamisole, except for a slight motor deficit. If further investigations confirm the present findings, levamisole may well become a useful agent in the treatment of disseminated herpes simplex infection.
Immune Complexes in Scabies
Authors: Neste D. , Salmon J.
Published: October 2009

The in vitro addition of mite or human unparasited scale extracts to the serum of 8 patients with scabies and 5 healthy controls did not significantly modify the fixation of 125I-C1q as compared to control tubes (serum with physiological saline). These results suggest that antigens or substances derived from the scabies mite are not involved in the immune complexes present in the serum of the parasited patients.
On the Influence of Topically Applied Drugs on Cell Kinetics in the Sebaceous Gland
Authors: Gloor M. , Gantner M. , Wirth H. , Schnyder U.W.
Published: October 2009

60 male Syrian hamsters were treated on one ear with 2.5% selenium disulfide in a surfactant base and on the other ear with the same surfactant base. After treatment 15 animals were investigated by 3H-thymidine autoradiography, 15 animals by the colcemid method and 15 animals by the in vivo double labelling technique with 3H- and 14C-thymidine. In 15 animals the porportion of labeled cells was determined which still had contact with the basal lamina in the sebaceous gland 6 days after 3H-thymidine injection. Besides an increase in sebaceous gland size and in cell proliferation, a shortening of the S phase and a reduction of the labeled sebaceous gland cells which still have contact with the basal lamina of the sebaceous gland 6 days after 3H – thymidine injection were determined.
Assessing the Treatment of Solar Urticaria
Authors: Michell Patricia , Hawk J.L.M. , Shafrir A. , Corbett Margaret F. , Magnus I.A.
Published: October 2009

The weal and flare produced by monochromatic irradiation in solar urticaria may be treated as a classical dose-response. This has been used to investigate therapy with H1 and H2 antihistamines. The conventional H1 drug proved superior. But from the practical viewpoint, solar urticaria is difficult to suppress even with a relatively efficient H1 antihistamine, chlorpheniramine; the mean protective factor in 5 patients was only 2, insufficient for satisfactory clinical management.
Monoclonal IgG Immunoglobulinemia in Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Scherf I. , Nahir M. , Brick R. , Joffe G. , Tatarsky J.
Published: October 2009

A 57-year-old man with skin psoriasis and psoriatic arthropathy, in whom an IgG-K monoclonal immunoglobulin was identified, is reported. A 7-year follow-up did not disclose any evidence of malignancy. The significance of this unusual occurrence is described.
A Case of Centrolobular Toxic Necrosis of the Liver Due to Aromatic Retinoid – Tigason (Ro 10-9359)
Authors: Thune P. , Mørk N.J.
Published: October 2009

A woman aged 54 years developed toxic necrosis of liver cells during treatment with aromatic retinoid (Ro 10–9359) for erythrodermia ichthyosiformis non-bullosa. Her skin was almost normalized when liver function tests and liver biopsy disclosed severe damage. The treatment was stopped, but 4 months later ALAT and ASAT were still elevated.
Laboratory Investigations in Patients with Generalized Psoriasis under Oral Retinoid Treatment
Authors: Orfanos C.E. , Mahrle G. , Goerz G. , Happle R. , Hofbauer M. , Landes E. , Schimpf A.
Published: October 2009

Numerous laboratory parameters were examined in 235 patients with generalized psoriasis treated orally with retinoid and in 35 patients treated topically with anthralin as control. Computer evaluation of the obtained data revealed statistical trends to elevation of the total serum bilirubin level and increasing number of blood monocytes after long-term oral treatment. No other statistically significant changes of the laboratory data were found. Particularly, the liver function tests (transaminases, prothrombin and alkaline phosphatase) showed no significant alterations. Only in a few cases did the retinoid compound have an influence on the GPT and GOT levels. The reasons for this individual sensitivity to the drug remain unknown. No significant alterations were found in the control group treated topically with anthralin.
Role of Macrophages in Intraepidermic Vesiculation in Pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Honma Takayoshi , Saito Taiichi
Published: October 2009

The authors made an electron-microscopic observation of intraepidermic vesiculation in pemphigus vulgaris at its early stage, and found that numerous macrophages were invading the cleft located immediately superior to the basal cell layer. They suggest that the formation of cleft, as a preceding stage to the eventual development into intraepidermic vesiculation, is intimately related to the squeezing-in of invasive macrophages among keratinocytes.
A Retrospective Study of Patch Test Results from 163 Patients with Stasis Dermatitis or Leg Ulcers
Authors: Dooms-Goossens A. , Degreef H. , Parijs M. , Maertens M.
Published: October 2009

Retesting 50 patients with stasis dermatitis after a period of time (3–25 months) revealed significantly less positive patch test results (p < 0.05). All procedures were, of course, standardized. The main reasons for this were elimination of the sensitization agents in the interim and testing with a less acute skin condition. Allergens that are difficult to avoid, such as the ‘para’ compounds and balsam of Peru and related substances, show a higher degree of persistence in subsequent patch testing.
Chronic Pyoderma in Splenectomized Patient
Authors: Haim S. , Segal B.
Published: October 2009

This is a report of a case with a chronic peculiar intractable pyoderma. The process started a year after splenectomy because of trauma. In the absence of an apparent other reason, we assume that a relationship exists between the operation and the skin disease.
Démonstrations de cas
Authors: Delacrétaz J. , Grigoriu D.
Published: October 2009

Demonstration of some cases of mycoses caused by opportunistic fungi.
Champignons opportunistes à colonies grises producteurs de mycétomes
Authors: Borelli Dante
Published: October 2009

Madurella grisea Mackinnon, Ferrada and Montemayor, 1949, is not the unique species that produces gray colonies and black-grained mycetomata. Perhaps, it is not one species, because its grains and colonies may be confounded with those of several species that can be distinguished through their fertile structures. I take this opportunity to compare some characters of Pyrenochaeta romeroi, Phoma-Phillosticta sp., Chaetosphaeronema larense, Pyrenochaeta mackinnonii, Plenodomus avramii and of another aleuriospored Dematiacea with those assigned to Madurella grisea. The need is stressed for the search, the introduction and the divulgation of new methods fostering the formation of disseminating structures (pycnidiospores in this case), in order to ensure the proper specification of the agent in every case of mycetoma.
La sinusite maxillaire fongique
Authors: Grigoriu D. , Bambule J. , Delacrétaz J. , Savary M.
Published: October 2009

Since 1969, 600 patients suffering from maxillary sinusitis have been systematically controlled clinically as well as mycologically. We discovered 81 cases of maxillary sinusitis (13,4%). Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans were the most frequently isolated fungi. Three clinical forms could be distinguished: (1) a muco-purulent form (35 cases); (2) a budding and/or caseous form (22 cases), and (3) a pseudotumoral form (24 cases). 42 patients treated with a 1 % econazol (base) solution were healed.
An Approach of Ultrasound Diagnostic Techniques of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue
Authors: Rukavina B. , Mohar N.
Published: October 2009

The authors have examined ultrasound echograms and photographs of the skin and subcutaneous tissue changes in some skin diseases, reporting their findings. In spite of the preliminary clinical casuistry, this quick, simple and painless technique without irradiation hazard to the patient shows the advantage relating to the other techniques, routine roentenography especially. In conclusion, it is the authors’ opinion that the improved scanning technique and greater experience should offer such valuable results, used as an additional method in dermatological diagnostics.
High-Grade Malignant Lymphoma Arising from Sézary’s Syndrome
Authors: Kienitz Thomas , Burg Günter , Schmoeckel Christian , Weitz Hanfried , Braun-Falco Otto
Published: October 2009

Skin infiltrates and tumors characteristic of mycosis fungoides, together with other clinical features typical of Sézary’s syndrome (such as erythroderma, itching and Sézary cells in the peripheral blood), were found in a 76-year-old female. Histologically, there was a shift from a well-differentiated to a poorly-differentiated lymphoblastic infiltration indicating the transformation from a low-grade to a high-grade malignant (T-cell) lymphoma.
Contact Sensitivity to Rubber Additives in Belgium
Authors: Song M. , Degreef H. , de Maubeuge J. , Dooms-Goossens A. , Oleffe J.
Published: October 2009

The frequency of positive patch tests to rubber additives in Belgium is recorded. Allergy due to rubber protective gloves represents 41% of the overall sensitivity to rubber.
Generalized Cutaneous Calcinosis and Mixed Connective Tissue Disease
Authors: Bäurle G. , Hornstein O.P.
Published: October 2009

A 49-year-old female patient with a history of fever episodes, muscular weakness, Raynaud’s phenomenon, cardiac insufficiency and increasing cutaneous calcinosis over a period of 4 years is reported. Based upon clinical as well as histological and immunological findings, the disease is diagnosed as mixed connective tissue disease with generalized cutaneous calcinosis in an extent yet unpublished, to our knowledge, in this ‘overlap syndrome’. The pathogenesis of cutaneous calcinosis is discussed with particular reference to the phenomenon of calciphylaxis, and some therapeutic implications are considered.
Granulomatous Inflammation of the Vulva and Penis – A Genital Counterpart to Cheilitis Granulomatosa
Authors: Westermark Per , Henriksson Tor-Göran
Published: October 2009

3 patients are described, in whom chronic swelling of the external genitals occurred after recurrent infections. The histological findings were identical to those seen in cheilitis granulomatosa, the dermal component of Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. The authors suppose that the disease of the 3 patients is a genital counterpart to cheilitis granulomatosa, and the name vulvitis or posthitis granulomatosa is suggested.
Actinic Keratoses Treated with a Combination of Topical 5-Fluorouracil and Dinitrochlorobenzene
Authors: Price Norman M.
Published: October 2009

A comparative study of topical 5-fluorouracil (5FU) alone and 5FU with dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) therapy in the treatment of actinic keratoses of the upper limbs is described. 5 out of 10 patients had better results with a combination of the two medications, while there was no difference in the results in 4 of the patients. Complications in the form of contact dermatitis to DNCB was experienced in 5 patients. Therapy of actinic keratoses of the upper limbs is recommended for a 6- to 8-week period with 5FU alone because of the difficulties associated with DNCB usage.
Comedo Formation Following Cobalt Irradiation
Authors: Larsen Schultz , Heydenreich G. , Christiansen J.V.
Published: October 2009

After cobalt-60 therapy 3 patients developed open and closed comedones in the face corresponding to the treatment fields. Biopsies showed extensive dermal elastotic material. It is suggested that the elastotic fibres may contribute to a change in the supporting function of the dermis and a secondary sebum retention and comedo formation.
Le xanthogranulome de l’adulte
Authors: Malbos Simone , Guilhou Jean-Jacques , Meynadier Jean , Barneon Gilbert , Baldet Pierre
Published: October 2009

The authors report a case of naevoxanthoendothelioma in a 58-year-old woman. 24 cases of naevoxanthoendothelioma in adults have already been reported in the literature. If the age of the patient is considered, nosologic problems may arise, especially with the strictly cutaneous reticulohistiocytosis of Senear and Caro. Biological and ultrastructural features allow the authors to develop some hypotheses about the pathogenesis of the disease.
Premature Multiple Bowen’s Disease in Poikiloderma congenitale with Warty Hyperkeratoses
Authors: Haneke E. , Gutschmidt E.
Published: October 2009

A constant gradual malignant degeneration of verrucous hyperkeratoses was observed in a now 16-year-old poikiloderma congenitale patient although topical immunotherapy of the warty lesions was partially successful and led to an improvement of T-cell functions.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Nail Bed
Authors: Kaminsky C.A. , de Kaminsky A.R. , Shaw M. , Formentini E. , Abulafia J.
Published: October 2009

A case is presented of squamous cell carcinoma developed from carcinoma in situ of the nail bed of the first finger in a 79-year-old patient. Stress is laid upon the importance of the differential diagnosis. Surgery is considered the treatment of choice for this uncommon condition.
Oral Contraceptives and Their Influence on Porphyrin Concentrations in Erythrocytes and Urine
Authors: Kansky A. , Gregorc J. , Pavlič M.
Published: October 2009

In 15 females who have never before taken oral contraceptives, the porphyrin concentration in erythrocytes and in urine were investigated. The laboratory assays were performed before and after being on the oral contraceptive Stediril during 5 months (2 women took Stediril during only 3 months). The mean PP concentration in the erythrocytes increased from 16.4 μg (before) to 24.1 μg/l00 ml of erythrocytes after taking Stediril regularly for 5 months. A statistical evaluation with the Student’s test showed that at the level of 2%, the tEXP = 2.58 was larger than the theoretical t₀.02 = 2.47. The difference of the mean CP concentration in the erythrocytes before and after taking Stediril was not statistically significant at the level of 5%. The mean concentration of CP in urine increased from 119.2 to 137.1 μg in 1,000 ml. This difference was, however, not statistically significant at the level of 5% when assayed with the same test. There was no increase in UP concentration in urine.
Evaluation de facteurs pronostiques du mélanome malin par la méthode actuarielle
Authors: Pelletier N. , Claudy A. , Thivolet J.
Published: October 2009

The survival rate of 75 patients with malignant melanomas has been calculated according to the actuarial method. Various parameters have been evaluated such as sex and site distribution, histologic data and levels of invasion. The actuarial method appeared to be the more accurate way to appreciate the percentage of survivors in a high-mortality group. Thus, although the incidence of melanoma was higher among females, their prognoses were better than those of males. The localisations on the trunk and the lower extremities were those with the poorest prognosis, nodular melanomas had a survival rate below those of superficially spreading melanomas. Level III of invasion should be regarded as a hinge in terms of lymph node metastasis and survival.
So-Called Multicentric Pigmented Bowen’s Disease
Authors: Kimura Shunji , Hirai Akio , Harada Reiko , Nagashima Masaji
Published: October 2009

Multicentric pigmented Bowen’s disease (MPBD) is a bowenoid atypia in the genitocrural region with peculiar clinical appearances. A 36-year-old Japanese female patient showed a variety of lesions. Clinically the lesions on the external genitalia consisted of brown-black papillomatous eruptions, black discrete or confluent papules, and whitish macerated papules. Histologically only black papules showed bowenoid atypia, but whitish papules also showed transient bowenoid atypia. Electron microscopically, in all three kinds of the lesions, spherical particles with a diameter of about 50 nm were scattered or gathered together in the nuclei of the keratinocytes beneath the horny layer. These particles were morphologically similar to human papilloma virus. Based upon clinical, histologic and electron microscopic observations, MPBD may be regarded as a new entity, and a term such as multicentric pigmented viral papulosis may be rather preferable than MPBD.
Patterns of Cutaneous Lymphomas
Authors: Burg G. , Braun-Falco O. , Hoffmann-Fezer G. , Rodt H. , Schmoeckel Ch.
Published: October 2009

During recent years there has been much progress in interpreting the histo- and cytomorphology of lymphoreticular proliferations by means of enzyme cytochemical (cell typing by hydrolytic enzymes) and immunological (B- and T-cell differentiation using surface markers and functional tests) methods. Applying these methods in skin biopsies from 101 patients clinically suspected of having cutaneous lymphomas, patterns of lymphoreticular infiltrations in the skin have been elaborated. Based primarily on the ‘Kiel’ classification, low-grade and high-grade malignant lymphomas, pseudolymphomas and ‘histiocytic lymphomas’ can be differentiated in the skin; however, there still remain some hitherto unclassifiable lymphoreticular proliferations. In the low-grade malignant lymphomas of the skin, mycosis fungoides, Sézary’s syndrome and Pagetoid reticulosis histologically display a pattern which is typical for T-cell infiltrations in the skin, whereas most of the ‘malignant reticuloses’, including immunocytoma, show a B-cell pattern. Erythrocyte antibody complement rosette fixation on cryostat sections is positive only in cutaneous pseudolymphomas whereas no fixation is seen in malignant B-cell lymphomas of the skin.
Mycosis fongoïde – Le praticien devant les problèmes nosologiques, diagnostiques, pronostiques des lymphomes épídermotropes
Authors: Puissant A. , Durepaire Rose-Marie , Tousch Marie-Ange , Delanoe Jocelyne , Saurat J.H.
Published: October 2009

The authors have studied 39 cases of mycosis fungoides in the last 3 years. The confrontation between clinical and histological data remains the best means of diagnosis and prognosis. The classical classification into three clinical forms must be maintained; laboratory investigations do not yet supply practical information for prognosis and therapy. At present, the prognosis cannot be established otherwise than on clinical grounds; a pragmatic staging method is needed.
Le Syndrome et la cellule de Sézary
Authors: Prunieras Michel
Published: October 2009

The author gives a summary of the recent researches concerning Sézary’s syndrome.
Atypical Granuloma Annulare
Authors: Ogino Atsuhiko , Tamaki Eiko
Published: October 2009

We studied a 53-year-old housewife who had atypical granuloma annulare (GA) which began as erythematous patches on the legs. After 2 months, multiple flat papules, histologically characteristic of GA, developed over the erythematous background. 1½ years later, a typical annular lesion appeared on the right index finger. Differential diagnosis of the erythematous form of GA based only on the clinical manifestations is difficult.
Erythromycin Stearate in Acne vulgaris: Its Effect on the Skin Surface Lipids and on the Activity of Purified Pancreatic Lipase
Authors: Hellgren Lars , Vincent Jan
Published: October 2009

To study the mechanism of action of erythromycin stearate in acne vulgaris, the composition of the skin surface lipids was analyzed before, during and after treatment (500 mg daily for 1 week, 250 mg daily for 2 months) in 17 patients. Quantitative thin-layer chromatography showed that the fatty acid fraction in the skin surface lipids decreased significantly during the treatment period. The clinical effect was good in 14 of 17 patients. Further investigations were performed on the effect of erythromycin stearate on purified pancreatic lipase. The enzyme activity was not inhibited by exposure to the drug.
Induction of Delayed Reaction to Dinitrophenylated Lymphocytes in Guinea Pigs with Contact Sensitivity to DNCB
Authors: Gotoh M. , Nakagawa S. , Aoshima T. , Kohda M. , Namba M. , Tanioku K.
Published: October 2009

The incidence of dinitrophenylated cells in guinea pig lymphocytes incubated with 0–30 mM concentrations of DNBSO3Na in phosphate-buffered saline was examined by an immunofluorescence method using fluorescence-labelled anti-DNP antibody. Under our experimental conditions, the incidence was roughly proportional to the concentration used. Using DNP-lymphocytes as an antigen for skin testing, a marked delayed reaction was induced in guinea pigs sensitized by painting with DNCB and intradermal injection of Freund’s complete adjuvant. The significance of these findings is discussed.
Skin Lesions in Acquired Zinc Deficiency due to Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Vloten W.A. , Bos L.P.
Published: October 2009

The skin lesions seen in 10 patients who received parenteral nutrition during treatment of chronic enteropathy are described. All of these patients had a lowered serum zinc concentration. The skin lesions were similar to those seen in acrodermatitis enteropathica. After supplementation with zinc sulphate, the skin lesions disappeared completely. A decrease in the serum alkaline phosphatase level can be regarded as a sign of an impending zinc deficiency. Parenteral nutrition formulae should contain a sufficient amount of zinc.
Value Added in English Schools
Authors: Ray Andrew , McCormack Tanya , Evans Helen
Published: October 2009

Value-added indicators are now a central part of school accountability in England, and value-added information is routinely used in school improvement at both the national and the local levels. This article describes the value-added models that are being used in the academic year 2007–8 by schools, parents, school inspectors, and other professionals in local and national governments. The article outlines the development of value-added models in England following the introduction of national testing at ages seven, eleven, and fourteen in the 1990s. It describes the current “contextual” value-added models in detail, looking at the mathematical specification of the multilevel models and discussing the practical choice of explanatory attainment and contextual variables. The article also describes various uses of the value-added models, including in the published school achievement and attainment tables and in the RAISEonline system that supports schools in their self-evaluation and development planning and informs external inspection.
Environmental Space as a Basis for Legitimating Global Governance of Environmental Limits
Authors: Bührs Ton
Published: October 2009

The notion of environmental space, based on the principles of environmental limits and sharing environmental resources equitably, offers a starting point for a positive approach to the global “return of scarcity” challenge, notably by providing a basis legitimating and strengthening the global governance of environmental and resource limits. First, it provides a cognitive framework for determining limits and for dealing with these more comprehensively and effectively, at all levels of government. Second, the environmental space approach supports, notably at the global level, a more equitable distribution of access to, and/or the benefits from, increasingly scarce resources. Third, it can be used as a basis for designing and introducing institutions and processes that enhance democracy and community control over the use of resources. Although the adoption of the environmental space approach at the national, international and global levels faces formidable obstacles, more people stand to gain from it, materially, socially, and politically, than from the nationally based “environmental security” approach. The basis of support and agency for the environmental space approach is most likely to be strengthened by the development of institutional designs that enhance economic democracy, giving all people a material and political stake in the management of resources.
Tough-Constructions and Their Derivation
Authors: Hicks Glyn
Published: October 2009

This article addresses the syntax of the notorious tough(-movement) construction (TC) in English. TCs exhibit a range of apparently contradictory empirical properties suggesting that their derivation involves the application of both A-movement and Ā-movement operations. Within previous principles-and-parameters models, TCs have remained “unexplained and in principle unexplainable” (Holmberg 2000:839) because of incompatibility with constraints on θ-role assignment, locality, and Case. This article argues that the phase-based implementation of the Minimalist Program (Chomsky 2000, 2001, 2004) permits a reanalysis of null wh-operators capable of circumventing the previous theoretical difficulties. Essentially, tough-movement consists of A-moving a constituent out of a “complex” null operator that has already undergone Ā-movement, a “smuggling” construction in the terms proposed by Collins (2005a,b).
Some Correct Error-Driven Versions of the Constraint Demotion Algorithm
Authors: Boersma Paul
Published: October 2009

This article shows that Error-Driven Constraint Demotion (EDCD), an error-driven learning algorithm proposed by Tesar (1995) for Prince and Smolensky's (1993/2004) version of Optimality Theory, can fail to converge to a correct totally ranked hierarchy of constraints, unlike the earlier non-error-driven learning algorithms proposed by Tesar and Smolensky (1993). The cause of the problem is found in Tesar's use of “mark-pooling ties,” indicating that EDCD can be repaired by assuming Anttila's (1997) “permuting ties” instead. Proofs show, and simulations confirm, that totally ranked hierarchies can indeed be found by both this repaired version of EDCD and Boersma's (1998) Minimal Gradual Learning Algorithm.
Immensity and A-subjectivity
Authors: Schuback Marcia Sá Cavalcante
Published: October 2009

The aim of the present article is to reflect upon comparative procedures at stake in the acknowledgment of differences, following some paths of Husserl's and Heidegger's views on “comparative examination” (vergleichende Betrachtung). Although using the same expression as Husserl, Heidegger presents in this concept, rather, a phenomenology of correspondence. The encounter with otherness is described as correspondence to the immensity of the event of the world in Dasein. From out of a “destruction” of comparative examinations, it becomes possible to seize the a-subjective and ek-static structure of Dasein and claim a corresponding way of encountering otherness. In this corresponding way, the Other appears first as non-otherness, beyond a dialectics of selfhood and otherness.
The Safavids under Western Eyes: Seventeenth-Century European Travelers to Iran
Authors: Matthee Rudi
Published: October 2009

This essay takes a fresh look at the voluminous yet understudied Western travel writing about 17th-century Iran. It argues that, after this material is properly subjected to close scrutiny for authorial bias, interest and intertexuality, it remains exceedingly valuable for the information it provides on Safavid Iran. Early modern European travelers to Iran brought remnants of past religious and cultural prejudice with them, yet the best explored the country with an open eye, an appreciation for difference, and even a critical perspective on their own culture. They also provide remarkable, at times unique information about Iran and it inhabitants, opening up aspects of Safavid left uncovered by indigenous sources.
Gliopathic Pain: When Satellite Glial Cells Go Bad
Authors: Ohara Peter T. , Vit Jean-Philippe , Bhargava Aditi , Romero Marcela , Sundberg Christopher , Charles Andrew C. , Jasmin Luc
Published: October 2009

Neurons in sensory ganglia are surrounded by satellite glial cells (SGCs) that perform similar functions to the glia found in the CNS. When primary sensory neurons are injured, the surrounding SGCs undergo characteristic changes. There is good evidence that the SGCs are not just bystanders to the injury but play an active role in the initiation and maintenance of neuronal changes that underlie neuropathic pain. In this article the authors review the literature on the relationship between SGCs and nociception and present evidence that changes in SGC potassium ion buffering capacity and glutamate recycling can lead to neuropathic pain-like behavior in animal models. The role that SGCs play in the immune responses to injury is also considered. We propose the term gliopathic pain to describe those conditions in which central or peripheral glia are thought to be the principal generators of principal pain generators.
Review series: Occupational and environmental lung disease: Occupational asthma
Authors: Stenton SC
Published: October 2009

Occupational exposures cause 10-15% of new-onset asthma in adults, and that represents a considerable health and economic burden. Exposure to many causative agents is now well controlled but workplace practices are constantly evolving and new hazards being introduced. Overall, there is no good evidence that the incidence of occupational asthma is decreasing. Evidence-based guidelines such as those published by the British Occupational Health research Foundation and Standards of Care documents should help raise awareness of the problem and improve management. Key targets include the control of occupational exposures, a high index of suspicion in any adult with new onset asthma, and early detailed investigation.
Monitoring the performance of the Expanded Program on Immunization: the case of Burkina Faso
Authors: Bicaba Abel , Haddad Slim , Kabore Moussa , Taminy Emile , Feletto Marta , Fournier Pierre
Published: October 2009

Background

The greatest challenge facing expanded programs on immunization in general, and in Burkina Faso in particular, lies in their capacity to achieve and sustain levels of immunization coverage that will ensure effective protection of children. This article aims to demonstrate that full immunization coverage of children, which is the primary indicator for monitoring national immunization programs, is sufficient neither to evaluate their performance adequately, nor to help identify the broad strategies that must be implemented to improve their performance. Other dimensions of performance, notably adherence to the vaccination schedule and the efficacy of the approaches used to reach all the children (targeting) must also be considered.

Methods

The study was carried out using data from surveys carried out in Burkina Faso: the 1993, 1998 and 2003 Demographic and Health Surveys and the 2003 national Survey of Immunization Coverage. Essentially, we described levels of immunization coverage and their trends according to the indicators considered. Performance differences are illustrated by amplitudes and maximum/minimum ratios.

Results

The health regions' performances vary according to whether they are evaluated on the basis of full immunization coverage or vaccination status of children who have not completed their vaccinations. The health regions encompass a variety of realities, and efforts of substantially different intensity would be required to reach all the target populations.

Conclusion

Decision-making can be improved by integrating a tripartite view of performance that includes full immunization coverage, adherence to the vaccination schedule (timely coverage), and the status of children who are not fully vaccinated. With such an approach, interventions can be better targeted. It provides information on the quality and timeliness of vaccination and identifies the efforts required to meet the objectives of full immunization coverage.

Abstract in French

See the full article online for a translation of this abstract in French.
IVC CLAMP: infrahepatic inferior vena cava clamping during hepatectomy - a randomised controlled trial in an interdisciplinary setting
Authors: Rahbari Nuh N , Zimmermann Johannes B , Koch Moritz , Bruckner Thomas , Schmidt Thomas , Elbers Heike , Reissfelder Christoph , Weigand Markus A , Büchler Markus W , Weitz Jürgen
Published: October 2009

Background

Intraoperative haemorrhage is a known predictor for perioperative outcome of patients undergoing hepatic resection. While anaesthesiological lowering of central venous pressure (CVP) by fluid restriction is known to reduce bleeding during transection of the hepatic parenchyma its potential side effects remain poorly investigated. In theory it may have negative effects on kidney function and tissue perfusion and bears the risk to result in severe haemodynamic instability in case of profound intraoperative blood loss. The present randomised controlled trial evaluates efficacy and safety of infrahepatic inferior vena cava (IVC) clamping as an alternative surgical technique to reduce CVP during hepatic resection.

Methods/Design

The proposed IVC CLAMP trial is a single-centre randomised controlled trial with a two-group parallel design. Patients and outcome-assessors are blinded for the treatment intervention. Patients undergoing elective hepatic resection due to any reason are enrolled in IVC CLAMP. All patients admitted to the Department of General-, Visceral-, and Transplant Surgery, University of Heidelberg for elective hepatic resection are consecutively screened for eligibility and written informed consent is obtained on the day before surgery. The primary objective of this trial is to assess and compare the amount of blood loss during hepatic resection in patients receiving surgical CVP reduction by clamping of the IVC as compared to anaesthesiological CVP without infrahepatic IVC clamping reduction. In addition to blood loss a set of general as well as surgical variables are analysed.

Discussion

This is a randomised controlled patient and observer blinded two-group parallel trial designed to assess efficacy and safety of infrahepatic IVC clamping during elective hepatectomy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials NCT00732979
HPV & head and neck cancer: a descriptive update
Authors: Goon Peter KC , Stanley Margaret A , Ebmeyer Jörg , Steinsträsser Lars , Upile Tahwinder , Jerjes Waseem , Bernal-Sprekelsen Manuel , Görner Martin , Sudhoff Holger H
Published: October 2009

The incidence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has been gradually increasing over the last three decades. Recent data have now attributed a viral aetiology to a subset of head and neck cancers. Several studies indicate that oral human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is likely to be sexually acquired. The dominance of HPV 16 in HPV+ HNSCC is even greater than that seen in cervical carcinoma of total worldwide cases. Strong evidence suggests that HPV+ status is an important prognostic factor associated with a favourable outcome in head and neck cancers.

Approximately 30 to 40% of HNSCC patients with present with early stage I/II disease. These patients are treated with curative intent using single modality treatments either radiation or surgery alone. A non-operative approach is favored for patients in which surgery followed by either radiation alone or radiochemotherapy may lead to severe functional impairment. Cetuximab, a humanized mouse anti-EGFR IgG1 monoclonal antibody, improved locoregional control and overall survival in combination with radiotherapy in locally advanced tumours but at the cost of some increased cardiac morbidity and mortality.

Finally, the improved prognosis and treatment responses to chemotherapy and radiotherapy by HPV+ tumours may suggest that HPV status detection is required to better plan and individualize patient treatment regimes.
Preferential binding of HIF-1 to transcriptionally active loci determines cell-type specific response to hypoxia
Authors: Xia Xiaobo , Kung Andrew L
Published: October 2009

Background

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) plays a key role in cellular adaptation to hypoxia. To better understand the determinants of HIF-1 binding and transactivation, we used ChIP-chip and gene expression profiling to define the relationship between the epigenetic landscape, sites of HIF-1 binding, and genes transactivated by hypoxia in two cell lines.

Results

We found that when cells were acutely subjected to hypoxia, HIF-1 preferentially bound to loci that were already transcriptionally active under normal growth conditions characterized by the presence of histone H3 lysine 4 methylation, the presence of RNA polymerase II, and basal production of mRNA. Cell type-specific differences in HIF-1 binding were largely attributable to differences in the basal gene expression patterns in the cells prior to the onset of hypoxia.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the repertoire of genes active in a cell (for example, through lineage specific transcription factors) defines the subset of genes that are permissive for binding and transactivation by stimulus-responsive transcription factors.
Mapping contaminant-transport structures in karst bedrock with ground-penetrating radar
Authors: Hughes Larry J.
Published: October 2009

Ammonium perchlorate, a risk to human health, was used formerly to manufacture rocket fuel at the Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant (NWIRP) McGregor, McLennon County, Texas. Perchlorate exists in several groundwater contaminant plumes, whose geometries were suspected to be influenced by transmissive bedrock structures. To identify these possible contaminant-transport pathways, a towed-array ground-penetrating radar (GPR) system was used to acquire 118 line-km of data across [Formula: see text] of the property. The shallow geology consists of bedrock limestone overlain by [Formula: see text] of clay soil. For the [Formula: see text] antennas used, the conductive clay limits depth penetration to less than [Formula: see text] and yields a [Formula: see text] wavelength, reducing lateral and vertical resolution. Nevertheless, GPR data resolved the top of bedrock in many areas. Linear discontinuities in bedrock were interpreted as weathered fracture zones, and linear areas of signal loss were attributed to deeper clay weathering along fracture zones. GPR-interpreted fractures have orientations corresponding to known lineament and fault trends, appear to control plume geometries, and tend to have higher hydraulic transmissivities. GPR results led to a more complete contaminant-transport model and were used to optimize the positions of monitoring wells needed to define the extent of contamination. This reduced the cost and time required for an environmental investigation at the site. GPR was helpful also in positioning remedial trenches across contaminated structures, resulting in plume containment at the property boundaries.
Costs and Cost Effectiveness of a Health Care Provider–Directed Intervention to Promote Colorectal Cancer Screening
Authors: Shankaran Veena , Luu Thanh Ha , Nonzee Narissa , Richey Elizabeth , McKoy June M. , Graff Zivin Joshua , Ashford Alfred , Lantigua Rafael , Frucht Harold , Scoppettone Marc , Bennett Charles L. , Sheinfeld Gorin Sherri
Published: October 2009

Purpose

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening remains underutilized in the United States. Prior studies reporting the cost effectiveness of randomized interventions to improve CRC screening have not been replicated in the setting of small physician practices. We recently conducted a randomized trial evaluating an academic detailing intervention in 264 small practices in geographically diverse New York City communities. The objective of this secondary analysis is to assess the cost effectiveness of this intervention.

Methods

A total of 264 physician offices were randomly assigned to usual care or to a series of visits from trained physician educators. CRC screening rates were measured at baseline and 12 months. The intervention costs were measured and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was derived. Sensitivity analyses were based on varying cost and effectiveness estimates.

Results

Academic detailing was associated with a 7% increase in CRC screening with colonoscopy. The total intervention cost was $147,865, and the ICER was $21,124 per percentage point increase in CRC screening rate. Sensitivity analyses that varied the costs of the intervention and the average medical practice size were associated with ICERs ranging from $13,631 to $36,109 per percentage point increase in CRC screening rates.

Conclusion

A comprehensive, multicomponent academic detailing intervention conducted in small practices in metropolitan New York was clinically effective in improving CRC screening rates, but was not cost effective.