bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclosporin But Not Tacrolimus Significantly Increases Salivary Cytokine Contents in Rats
Authors: Spolidorio Luís Carlos , Holzhausen Marinella , Spolidorio Denise M. Palomari , Nassar Carlos A. , Nassar Patricia O. , Muscará Marcelo Nicolás
Published: September 2005

Background: Cyclosporin (CsA) and tacrolimus (FK‐506) are immunosuppressive drugs that specifically inhibit T‐cell activation via calcineurin inhibition. Gingival overgrowth is a common side effect following the administration of CsA. The severity of gingival overgrowth seen in patients taking FK‐506 is less than that observed with CsA. Little is known about the involvement of saliva in drug‐induced gingival overgrowth. The purpose of this study was to investigate the salivary contents of tumor growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) as well as the hystometry of gingival tissue obtained from rats treated with either FK‐506 or CsA.

Methods: For 30 or 60 days rats received daily subcutaneous injection doses of either CsA or FK‐506 (10 mg/kg). The concentrations of TGF‐β1, EGF, and IL‐6 in saliva were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and after histological processing, the oral epithelium and connective tissue were assessed at the region of the lower first molars.

Results: The levels of TGF‐β1, EGF, and IL‐6 in saliva were not significantly altered by any of the treatments after 30 days. After 60 days of treatment with CsA, gingival overgrowth and significant increase in salivary TGF‐β1, EGF, and IL‐6 concentrations were observed; no statistically significant changes were induced by FK‐506.

Conclusion: Within the limits of this experimental study, it can be concluded that CsA, but not FK‐506, induced gingival overgrowth associated with an increase of the salivary levels of the cytokines TGF‐β1, EGF, and IL‐6. J Periodontol 2005;76:1520‐1525.
Relationship Between Drinking and Periodontitis: The Hisayama Study
Authors: Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Saito Toshiyuki , Kiyohara Yutaka , Kato Isao , Kubo Michiaki , Iida Mitsuo , Yamashita Yoshihisa
Published: September 2005

Background: Although recent studies suggest a relationship between alcohol consumption and periodontal disease, the doseresponse relationship between drinking and the severity of periodontitis is unclear.

Methods: Alcohol consumption was evaluated using the frequency of drinking and the daily alcohol intake for 961 individuals aged 40 to 79 years. Periodontal status was evaluated using probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL).

Results: Alcohol consumption was linearly associated with the extent of PD and CAL in univariate analyses (P <0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analyses, the subjects drinking 15 to 29.9 g alcohol per day (odds ratio [OR] = 2.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1 to 6.6) or more than 30 g per day (OR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.1 to 5.7) had a significantly higher risk of having more than 35% of their teeth with PD ≥4 mm than non‐drinkers, independent of other confounding variables. No significant relationship between drinking and CAL was observed in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusion: These results suggest that the effect of drinking on periodontal condition is limited to subjects with deep periodontal pockets associated with more than one‐third of their teeth. J Periodontol 2005;76:1534‐1541.
Dexamethasone and Basic‐Fibroblast Growth Factor Regulate Markers of Mineralization in Cementoblasts In Vitro
Authors: Hakki Sema S. , Nohutcu Rahime M. , Hakki Erdogan E. , Berry Janice E. , Akkaya Mahinur S. , Somerman Martha J.
Published: September 2005

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of basic‐fibroblast growth factor (b‐FGF) and/or dexamethasone (Dex) on cementoblasts in vitro.

Methods: Murine cementoblasts were treated as follows: 1) 5% FBS (fetal bovine serum) + ascorbic acid (AA, 50 µg/ml, control); 2) 5% FBS+Dex (10–7M)+AA; 3) 5% FBS+b‐FGF (50 ng/ml)+AA; or 4) 5% FBS+Dex (10–7 M)+b‐FGF (50 ng/ml)+AA and then evaluated by Northern analysis for changes in specific genes and by von Kossa stain for changes in mineral nodule formation.

Results: Mitotic activity: b‐FGF stimulated DNA synthesis significantly versus negative control. Gene expression: osteocalcin (OCN): Dex or b‐FGF or the combination resulted in a decrease in expression versus control. Bone sialoprotein (BSP): Dex increased expression of BSP mRNA levels, b‐FGF decreased transcript for BSP at 6 and 24 hours. Long‐term (8 days) Dex, b‐FGF, or Dex plus b‐FGF caused a decrease in BSP expression versus control; osteopontin (OPN): both Dex and b‐FGF increased transcripts for OPN seen by 6 hours, with a greater increase noted with b‐FGF versus Dex. No apparent additive effect of Dex with b‐FGF was noted; matrix gamma‐carboxyglutamic acid protein (MGP): b‐FGF induced transcripts for MGP and addition of Dex increased this effect, while Dex alone had no effect on expression. Biomineralization: Dex increased cementoblast‐ mediated biomineralization, while b‐FGF blocked this activity, and addition of Dex to b‐FGF did not alter FGF associated inhibition.

Conclusion: Dex and FGF alone and in combination alter cementoblast behavior, but additional studies are required to determine whether these factors have beneficial effects at the clinical level. J Periodontol 2005;76:1550‐1558.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta and Unusual Gingival Hyperplasia
Authors: Macedo Guilherme O. , Tunes Roberta S. , Motta Ana C.F. , Passador‐Santos Fabrício , Grisi Márcio M. , Souza Sérgio L.S. , Palioto Daniela B. , Taba Mário , Novaes Arthur B.
Published: September 2005

Background: Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is a group of hereditary conditions that primarily involves the defective formation and/or calcification of enamel. The association of AI with gingival enlargement‐like lesions has also been reported.

Methods: This paper reports a case of a hypoplastic AI associated with unusual generalized gingival hyperplasia.

Results: Histological aspect of the gingival growth was characterized by a dense connective tissue with a mild mononuclear inflammatory infiltrate, calcified bodies, and islands of odontogenic epithelium.

Conclusion: The present case represents a very interesting demonstration of the fact that, although rare, AI may be associated with generalized gingival enlargement. J Periodontol 2005;76:1563‐1566.
Comparison of Fixed‐Wall and Pressurized‐Wall Minirhizotrons for Fine Root Growth Measurements in Eight Crop Species
Authors: Merrill Stephen D. , Tanaka Donald L. , Hanson Jonathan D.
Published: September 2005

Study of root growth is important for understanding C flow through plants to the soil and for modeling plant–soil interactions. Fine root growth can be observed through minirhizotrons (MRs), tubes installed in the field. We compared the use of fixed‐wall (F‐wall) MRs, 5.6 cm in diam., and pressurized‐wall (P‐wall) MRs, 9.6 cm in diam., with an inner cylinder and an outer wall of plastic sheeting kept under constant air pressure. Root growth was measured with a micro‐video camera for 3 yr in eight crop species growing on Pachic Haplustoll soil: canola, Brassica rapa L.; crambe, Crambe abysinnica Hochst. ex R.E. Fries; dry bean, Phaseolus vulgaris L.; dry pea, Pisum sativum L.; safflower, Carthamus tinctoris L.; spring wheat, Triticum aestivum L.; soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr.; and sunflower, Helianthus anuus L. Midpoint depths of root length density profiles measured with P‐wall MRs were on average 20% greater than those from F‐wall MRs, and maximum rooting depths observed were 15% greater with P‐wall than with F‐wall MRs. Fixed‐wall MRs were forced into tight access holes to establish soil contact while the expectedly more uniform interfaces of P‐wall MRs apparently allowed more root penetration. Averages of total root lengths (TRL) over rootzones and of root length per MR area (for upper halves of rootzones) measured by F‐wall MRs were 47 and 32% greater, respectively, than those measured by P‐wall MRs. This is attributed to greater clarity and visibility in F‐wall MRs compared with P‐wall MRs. Significantly more effort is required to build and maintain P‐wall MRs compared with F‐wall MRs, but P‐wall MRs could be considered for use in problem soils with swelling clay content, stoniness, or gravel. In soils with fine‐textured, difficult subsoils, use of P‐wall MRs to supplement F‐wall MRs could increase the accuracy of root growth depth measures.
Forage Mixture Productivity and Botanical Composition in Pastures Grazed by Dairy Cattle
Authors: Sanderson M. A. , Soder K. J. , Muller L. D. , Klement K. D. , Skinner R. H. , Goslee S. C.
Published: September 2005

Some producers believe that planting pastures to several forage species benefits sustainability of grazing systems. We conducted a grazing study to determine if forage species diversity in pastures affects herbage productivity and weed invasion. One‐hectare pastures were planted to four mixtures in August 2001 and then grazed with lactating dairy cattle during 2002 and 2003. The mixtures were two species [orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.)], three species [orchardgrass, white clover, and chicory (Cichorium intybus L.)], six species [orchardgrass, tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.), and chicory], and nine species [the six‐species mixture plus white clover, alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), and bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.)]. When rainfall was plentiful (2003), there were no differences in herbage yield among the mixtures; all averaged 9800 kg ha−1 dry matter. During 2002, which was dry, the two‐species mixture produced less herbage than the other mixtures (4800 vs. 7600 kg ha−1 dry matter). The proportion of nonsown species in the sward was lower for the six‐ and nine‐species mixtures than the two‐and three‐species mixtures, indicating less weed invasion for these complex mixtures. Red clover and chicory proportions decreased by 80% after 2 yr, and orchardgrass dominated in all pastures by May 2004. We conclude that planting a mixture of grasses, legumes, and chicory will benefit herbage production during dry years and will reduce weed invasion for a few years after planting under management similar to ours. Producers would have to reestablish the chicory and legume components relatively frequently to maintain these benefits.
Boundary Strengthening over Five Length Scales
Authors: Hansen N.
Published: September 2005

The strengthening effect of grain boundaries and dislocation boundaries is a traditional metallurgical theme, which at the present time is being revived. The reason is the scientific and industrial interest in strength obtained through a structural refinement. Such a refinement is found in nanocrystalline metals subdivided by grain boundaries and in heavily deformed metals subdivided by a mixture of dislocation boundaries and high angle boundaries. The structural dimension of these materials covers a scale form the nanometre range to the hundreds micrometers level i.e. five length scales. Consequently, a multiscale analysis has been applied to the relationship between strength and the boundary parameters. As an example this analysis suggests that the yield stress/grain size relationship follows the Hall‐Petch relationship down to a grain size of about 15–20 nm showing large potential for strengthening of a metal through a structural refinement.
Formation of Dendritic Nanotubes under an Electric Field
Authors: Cui Y. , Xu C. L. , Han Q. Y. , Choo H. , Liaw P. K.
Published: September 2005

The formation of dendritic nanaotube structures was observed when an electric field was implemented in the nanotube‐containing solution. This phenomenon can be attributed to the movements of the charged carbon nanotubes and ions attached on the nanotube surface under the condition of the force of attraction or repulsion from the electric field.
A novel AβPP mutation exclusively associated with cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Authors: Obici Laura , Demarchi Andrea , de Rosa Giulia , Bellotti Vittorio , Marciano Sabrina , Donadei Simona , Arbustini Eloisa , Palladini Giovanni , Diegoli Marta , Genovese Egidio , Ferrari Giancarlo , Coverlizza Sergio , Merlini Giampaolo
Published: September 2005

Mutations in AβPP cause deposition of Aβ amyloid fibrils in brain parenchyma and cerebral vessels, resulting in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and/or cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). We report a novel mutation (L705V) within the Aβ sequence of AβPP in a family with autosomal dominant, recurrent intracerebral hemorrhages. Pathological examination disclosed severe CAA, without parenchymal amyloid plaques or neurofibrillary tangles. This variant highlights the vascular tropism of mutated Aβ, resulting in CAA instead of the pathological hallmarks of AD. Ann Neurol 2005;58:639‐644
White matter lesion progression, brain atrophy, and cognitive decline: The Austrian stroke prevention study
Authors: Schmidt Reinhold , Ropele Stefan , Enzinger Christian , Petrovic Katja , Smith Stephen , Schmidt Helena , Matthews Paul M. , Fazekas Franz
Published: September 2005

White matter lesions progress over time, but the clinical consequences are widely unknown. Three‐hundred twenty‐nine elderly community‐dwelling volunteers underwent serial magnetic resonance imaging scanning and cognitive testing at baseline and at 3‐ and 6‐year follow‐up. We measured the changes in white matter lesion and brain parenchymal volumes. After 6 years, the median increase in white matter lesion load was 0.2cm3 (interquartile range [IQR], 0.0–0.80cm3) with a maximum of 31.4cm3. The median loss of brain volume was 2.3% (IQR, 1.13–3.58%). Increasing white matter lesion volume was correlated with loss of brain volume (p < 0.0001) and performance decline in tests of memory (p = 0.022), conceptualization (p = 0.046), and visuopractical skills (p = 0.005). Associations between changes in white matter lesion load and cognitive functioning were no longer significant when adding change in brain volume to the models, suggesting that cognitive decline related directly to loss of brain substance with progression of lesion burden. Ann Neurol 2005;58:610–616
Design of interactive and dynamic anatomical visualizations: The implication of cognitive load theory
Authors: Khalil Mohammed K. , Paas Fred , Johnson Tristan E. , Payer Andrew F.
Published: September 2005

In improving the teaching and learning of anatomical sciences, empirical research is needed to develop a set of guiding principles that facilitate the design and development of effective dynamic visualizations. Based on cognitive load theory (CLT), effective learning from dynamic visualizations requires the alignment of instructional conditions with the cognitive architecture of learners and their levels of expertise. By improving the effectiveness and efficiency of dynamic visualizations, students will be able to be more successful in retaining visual information that mediates their understanding of complex and difficult aspects of anatomy. This theoretical paper presents instructional strategies generated by CLT and provides examples of some instructional implications of CLT on the design of dynamic visualizations for teaching and learning of anatomy. Anat Rec (Part B: New Anat) 286B:15–20, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Physically based morphing of point‐sampled surfaces
Authors: Bao Yunfan , Guo Xiaohu , Qin Hong
Published: September 2005

This paper presents an innovative method for naturally and smoothly morphing point‐sampled surfaces via dynamic meshless simulation on point‐sampled surfaces. While most existing literature on shape morphing emphasizes the issue of finding a good correspondence map between two object representations, this research primarily investigates the challenging problem of how to find a smooth, physically‐meaningful transition path between two homeomorphic point‐set surfaces. We analyze the deformation of surface involved in the morphing process using concepts in differential geometry and continuum mechanics. The morphing paths can be determined by optimizing an energy functional, which characterizes the intrinsic deformation of the surface away from its rest shape. As demonstrated in the examples, our method automatically produces a series of natural and physically‐plausible in‐between shapes, which greatly alleviates the shrinking, stretching, and self‐intersection problems that often occur when linear interpolation is employed for the morphing of two objects. We envision that our new technique will continue to broaden the application scope of point‐set surfaces and their dynamic animation. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GPU‐based intrinsic collision detection for deformable surfaces
Authors: Wong Wingo Sai‐Keung , Baciu George
Published: September 2005

An intrinsic collision detection unit (ICDU) forms the bottom‐most layer of a collision detection pipeline. The ICDU performs collision detection and computes collision information for primitive feature pairs of objects in a 3D dynamic environment. A significant amount of time can be spent by the ICDU during the collision detection process. In this paper, we extend the ICDU framework to take advantages of the computational power of programmable graphics processors (GPUs). Some components of the ICDU framework consist of time demanding and fine‐grained tasks that can be implemented on GPUs. By employing the framework, collision information can be computed accurately, robustly, and efficiently. Experimental results show that the proposed method greatly improves the performance of the ICDU. A collection buffer is proposed for the future enhancement of GPU‐based collision detectors. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deferred shadowing for real‐time rendering of dynamic scenes under environment illumination
Authors: Tamura Naoki , Johan Henry , Nishita Tomoyuki
Published: September 2005

Environment illumination, which is a complex and distant lighting environment represented by images, is often applied to create photo‐realistic images. However, creating photo‐realistic animations under environment illumination is exceedingly compute intensive. The Precomputed Radiance Transfer (PRT) methods achieve real‐time rendering under environment illumination; however, these methods only have a limited application in animation because the objects in the scene cannot be moved or rotated. In this paper, we propose a method for rendering photo‐realistic animations of dynamic scenes under environment illumination in real time. We notice the fact that when objects are moved or rotated, changes of radiances occur mainly in the regions of shadows cast by other objects. Our method makes a distinction between self‐shadow and shadows cast by other objects and computes these two kinds of shadows efficiently. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implicit midpoint integration and adaptive damping for efficient cloth simulation
Authors: Volino Pascal , Magnenat‐Thalmann Nadia
Published: September 2005

Implicit integration methods have contributed to large performance enhancements in the field of simulation of particle‐system mechanical models. While Backward Euler and BDF‐2 methods are now widely used for cloth simulation applications, the Implicit Midpoint method is often overlooked, because of its poor stability properties. It is however as simple to implement as Backward Euler, and offers significantly better accuracy and even shorter computation times. Starting with a study of the stability properties of these integration methods, we will find out how moderate viscous damping may efficiently restore stability of Implicit Midpoint integration method. An extension is also proposed for BDF‐2 methods. Comparative examples demonstrate the benefits of this approach. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Animating smoke with dynamic balance
Authors: Hong Jin‐Kyung , Kim Chang‐Hun
Published: September 2005

We propose a numerical method for maintaining a dynamic rolling motion of animated gaseous phenomena, such as smoke, that avoids dissipation due to numerical error. We compensate for the errors induced by a semi‐Lagrangian scheme using an error estimate for each time interval. We develop a new advection term and perform vortex advection based on a vorticity confinement force. Example simulations show that this method is able to keep smoke features alive, even near the center of a vortex. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TiO2 Nanoparticles in Mesoporous TUD‐1: Synthesis, Characterization and Photocatalytic Performance in Propane Oxidation
Authors: Hamdy Mohamed S. , Berg Otto , Jansen Jacobus C. , Maschmeyer Thomas , Moulijn Jacob A. , Mul Guido
Published: September 2005

A series of TiO2‐TUD‐1 samples was synthesized with a variable Ti loading in the range Si/Ti=100, 20, 2.5, and 1.6, by using a one‐pot surfactant‐free procedure. The materials obtained were characterized by elemental analysis; X‐ray diffraction (XRD); N2 sorption measurements; high‐resolution TEM (HR‐TEM); 29Si NMR, UV‐visible and Raman spectroscopy. As a function of increasing metal loading either isolated Ti atoms, or (above a Ti loading of ∼2.5 wt‐ %) combinations of isolated Ti atoms and anatase (TiO2) nanoparticles were obtained; both were incorporated in the highly porous siliceous matrix. The photocatalytic performance of these materials was tested by studying the propane oxidation process following irradiation at λ=365 nm, selectively activating the anatase nanoparticles. In comparison to commercial anatase powder, TiO2 nanoparticles in TUD‐1 showed high photochemical selectivity towards acetone, the sample with a Si/Ti ratio of 1.6 being the most selective. Size and confinement effects are consistent with the difference in performance of the TUD‐1 materials and TiO2, limiting the number of electron transfers available for each propane molecule.
A Phase I study of concurrent RMP‐7 and carboplatin with radiation therapy for children with newly diagnosed brainstem gliomas
Authors: Packer Roger J. , Krailo Mark , Mehta Minesh , Warren Katherine , Allen Jeffrey , Jakacki Regina , Villablanca Judith G. , Chiba Akiko , Reaman Gregory
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND

Ninety percent of children with diffuse, intrinsic brainstem tumors will die within 18 months of diagnosis. Radiotherapy is of transient benefit to these children, and a potential way to improve its efficacy is to add radiosensitizers. Carboplatin is antineoplastic and radiosensitizing; however, its delivery to the primary tumor site is problematic. RMP‐7 is a bradykinin analog that causes selective permeability of the blood‐brain‐tumor interface. The objective of this Phase I study was to determine the toxicity and feasibility of delivering RMP‐7 and carboplatin for 5 successive days during radiotherapy to children with newly diagnosed, diffuse, intrinsic brainstem gliomas.

METHODS

RMP‐7 was given prior to the end of carboplatin infusion. Local radiotherapy, in dose fractions of 180 centigrays (cGy) per day (to a total dose of 5940 cGy), was given within 4 hours of completion of drug delivery. Duration of treatment was escalated in a stepwise, weekly fashion in cohorts of 3 patients, until there was treatment‐limiting toxicity or until radiotherapy was completed. Thirteen patients were treated, and their median age was 7 years (age range, 3–12 yrs).

RESULTS

One child died early during treatment of progressive disease and was not assessable for toxicity. Treatment for 3 weeks, 4 weeks, and 5 weeks was tolerated well, with mild flushing, tachycardia, nausea, emesis, dizziness, and abdominal pain. One of 3 children treated at the full duration of therapy (33 doses over 7 weeks) developed dose‐limiting hepatotoxicity and neutropenia. The estimated median survival was 328 days, and 1 patient remained free of disease progression for > 400 days after the initiation of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study confirmed the feasibility of giving RMP‐7 and carboplatin daily during radiotherapy to children with brainstem tumors. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
View factor calculation using the Monte Carlo method and numerical sensitivity
Authors: Vujičić M. R. , Lavery N. P. , Brown S. G. R.
Published: September 2005

The geometrical view (configuration) factor plays a crucial role in radiative heat transfer simulations and several methods, such as integration, the Monte Carlo and the hemi‐cube method have been introduced to calculate view factors in recent years. In this paper the Monte Carlo method combined with the finite element (FE) technique is investigated. Results describing the relationships between different discretization schemes, number of rays used for the view factor calculation, CPU time and accuracy are presented. The interesting case where reduced accuracy is obtained with increased refinement of FE mesh is discussed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Static reanalysis of structures with added degrees of freedom
Authors: Wu Baisheng , Li Zhengguang
Published: September 2005

This paper deals with static reanalysis of a structure with added degrees of freedom where the nodes of the original structure form a subset of the nodes of the modified structure. A preconditioned conjugate‐gradient approach is developed. The preconditioner is constructed, and the implementation of the approach involves only decomposition of the stiffness matrix corresponding to the newly added degrees of freedom. In particular, the approach can adaptively monitor the accuracy of approximate solutions. The approach is applicable to the reanalysis of the structural layout modifications for the case of addition of some nodes, deletion and addition of elements and further changes in the geometry as well as to the local mesh refinements. Numerical examples show that the condition number of the selected preconditioned matrix is largely reduced. Therefore, the fast convergence and accurate results can be achieved by the approach. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An algorithm for incorporation of frictional sliding conditions within a steady state rolling framework
Authors: Laursen Tod A. , Stanciulescu Ilinca
Published: September 2005

A formulation for hyperelastic steady state rolling calculations is presented, focusing on the inclusion of frictional sliding conditions between a rolling tyre and a flat roadway. Algorithmically, it is seen that traditional return mapping algorithmic strategies for treatment of the friction are often ineffective for this problem even when well‐posed frictional solutions exist; accordingly, an algorithmic approach utilizing a global stick predictor is proposed to recover solutions to the sliding contact problem. Numerical examples for adherent and sliding contact cases are presented, to demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach advocated. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lactone Kinetic Resolution by Acylation – Application to the Enantioselective Synthesis of Estrane Derivatives
Authors: Wilmouth Serge , Durand Anne‐Catherine , Goretta Sarah , Ravel Christophe , Moraleda Delphine , Giorgi Michel , Pellissier Hélène , Santelli Maurice
Published: September 2005

The acylation of an excess of racemic spirolactone 1 (6,9‐divinyl‐1‐oxaspiro[4.4]nonan‐2‐one) enolate by protected methyl (S)‐lactate or (–)‐bornyl carbonate occurs with a kinetic resolution. The resulting lactones were alkylated with 1‐iodobenzocyclobutenes to afford compounds that serve as precursors to nonracemic steroids such as 11α‐alkyloxycarbonyl‐11β,13β‐(γ‐carbolactone)‐17β‐vinylgonatri‐1,3,5(10)‐enes. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Aerobic Photooxidation in Water by Polyoxotungstates: The Case of Uracil
Authors: Bonchio Marcella , Carraro Mauro , Conte Valeria , Scorrano Gianfranco
Published: September 2005

Uracil photooxygenation occurs in acidic water (pH = 1) at 25 °C, under oxygen (1 atm), irradiating with λ > 300 nm in the presence of selected polyoxometalates (POM). A marked diversity of photocatalytic behavior is registered for different POMs in terms of oxidation rate and selectivity. H3PW12O40 (PW12) appears to be the most reactive photocatalyst, by far superior to isostructural complexes, leading to a product distribution typical of OH· dominated oxidations, while Na4W10O32 (W10) and Na12[WZn3(H2O)2(ZnW9O34)2] (Zn5W19) exhibit a preferential reactivity towards uracil glycol. Kinetic studies and radical scavenger probes, performed on target intermediates and model diols, highlight a substantial difference in the mechanism of photocatalysis by the three complexes. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Barchan ripples under unidirectional water flows in the laboratory: formation and planar morphology
Authors: Endo Noritaka , Sunamura Tsuguo , Takimoto Hiroshi
Published: September 2005

The purpose of the present study is to investigate the formation and planar shape of barchan ripples generated by laboratory unidirectional water currents and to compare the morphology with that of barchans formed by laboratory waves and flows in natural environments. A thin veneer of sand as a sediment source was placed initially at the upstream part of a recirculating flume and the change in bed configurations by the flow was recorded by a video camera. Two types of formative process were observed: one was that barchan ripples grew from barchanoid bedforms and the other was that they developed from a small aggregate of sand particles. The barchan ripples in the present test had the same characteristics in the height–width relation and in the migration speed as previously reported from the desert environment and wave‐flume studies. An examination of the planar shape of the barchans led to the result that the barchan ripples had larger values of body‐length/width, compared with those of barchans formed by water waves in the laboratory and by airflow in natural deserts. The horn‐length/width of the barchan ripples was smaller than that of barchan dunes in deserts but larger than that of barchans in oscillatory laboratory flows. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An energy momentum conserving algorithm using the variational formulation of visco‐plastic updates
Authors: Noels L. , Stainier L. , Ponthot J.‐P.
Published: September 2005

In this paper we use the variational formulation of elasto‐plastic updates proposed by Ortiz and Stainier (Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Eng. 1999; 171:419– 444) in the context of consistent time integration schemes. We show that such a formulation is well suited to obtain a general expression of energy momentum conserving algorithms. Moreover, we present numerical examples that illustrate the efficiency of our developments. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local government and the governance of metropolitan areas in Latin America
Authors: Rodriguez‐Acosta Cristina A. , Rosenbaum Allan
Published: September 2005

Two of the most important trends occurring in Latin America and the Caribbean during the past quarter century have been rapid urbanisation and government decentralisation. With approximately 75% of its 520 million inhabitants living in urban areas, the region has seen the emergence of such mega‐cities as Buenos Aires, Lima, Mexico City and Sao Paulo. At the same time, the region, partly on its own and partly prodded by international organisations and donors, has been struggling with the issue of decentralising its historically highly centralised national governments and strengthening its traditionally very weak and highly dependent local governments. In this article, the authors examine local governance structures in several major urban areas of Latin America in order to understand how these two sometimes highly contradictory developments are impacting upon the governance of metropolitan areas and the resolution of the major problems facing them. Particular attention is paid to emerging cooperative arrangements that may in the future help to address significant metropolitan area issues. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metropolitan governance and urban poverty
Authors: Devas Nick
Published: September 2005

In the design of urban governance structures, there is an inherent tension between ‘scale’ and ‘voice’. Both aspects are important considerations if city government is to address the needs of the poor. Metropolitan‐scale government offers the potential for resources (notably finance but also land, natural resources and skills) to be mobilised from across the city to provide services and infrastructure for all, including the poor. But the metropolitan scale can also mean remoteness of decision‐makers from citizens and hence a weakened citizen ‘voice’, especially of the poor. This article explores this tension, using material from recent research on urban governance and poverty in ten cities of Asia, Africa and Latin America. The analysis covers issues of jurisdiction boundaries, responsibilities for services and infrastructure, resource bases and mobilisation, performance in service delivery and access to services, political representation and accountability and mechanisms of citizen participation. The conclusion is that the tension between scale and voice may be best addressed by a two‐tier or multi‐tier structure involving both a very local level, with statutory rights and a share of resources, accessible and accountable to the poor, together with an upper level, also democratically accountable, covering the whole metropolitan area. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A proprietary extract from the echinacea plant (Echinacea purpurea) enhances systemic immune response during a common cold
Authors: Goel Vinti , Lovlin Ray , Chang Chuck , Slama Jan V. , Barton Richard , Gahler Roland , Bauer R. , Goonewardene L. , Basu Tapan K.
Published: September 2005

In a previous paper, it was reported that Echinilin™ (Factors R & D Technologies, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada) a formulation prepared from freshly harvested Echinacea purpurea plants and standardized on the basis of three known active components (alkamides, cichoric acid and polysaccharides) is effective for the treatment of a naturally acquired common cold. However, the mechanism by which this effect is achieved remains unknown. In the present study, Echinilin™ or placebo were administered to volunteers at the onset of their cold for a period of 7 days, with eight doses (5 mL/dose) on day 1 and three doses on subsequent days. Fasting blood samples were obtained before and during their colds. The decrease in total daily symptomatic score was more evident in the echinacea group than in the placebo group. These effects of echinacea were associated with a significant and sustained increase in the number of circulating total white blood cells, monocytes, neutrophils and NK cells. In the later part of the cold, the echinacea treatment suppressed the cold‐related increase in superoxide production by the neutrophils. These results suggest that Echinilin™, by enhancing the non‐specific immune response and eliciting free radical scavenging properties, may have led to a faster resolution of the cold symptoms. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antiinflammatory, analgesic and antiperoxidative efficacy of Barleria lupulina Lindl. extract
Authors: Suba V. , Murugesan T. , Kumaravelrajan R. , Mandal Subash C. , Saha B. P.
Published: September 2005

A study was undertaken to investigate the antiinflammatory efficacy of methanol extract of aerial parts of Barleria lupulina Lindl. [MEBL] (Family: Acanthaceae) in acute and sub‐acute inflammation models of albino rats. The MEBL in all the tested dose levels exhibited significant inhibition of carrageenin and serotonin induced paw oedema volumes when compared with the untreated (control) group. The MEBL also exerted a significant reduction in granuloma weight in the cotton pellet induced granuloma model. These potentials were comparable to that of the standard drug (indomethacin). The plant extract was also tested for its analgesic, ulcerogenic and antiperoxidative potential. The extract also demonstrated protection against CCl4 induced lipid peroxidation and acetic acid induced writhing. Acute administration of MEBL (300 mg/kg) did not produce any gastric lesion in rats. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concurrent software verification with states, events, and deadlocks
Authors: Chaki Sagar , Clarke Edmund , Ouaknine Joël , Sharygina Natasha , Sinha Nishant
Published: September 2005

We present a framework for model checking concurrent software systems which incorporates both states and events. Contrary to other state/event approaches, our work also integrates two powerful verification techniques, counterexample-guided abstraction refinement and compositional reasoning. Our specification language is a state/event extension of linear temporal logic, and allows us to express many properties of software in a concise and intuitive manner. We show how standard automata-theoretic LTL model checking algorithms can be ported to our framework at no extra cost, enabling us to directly benefit from the large body of research on efficient LTL verification.

We also present an algorithm to detect deadlocks in concurrent message-passing programs. Deadlock- freedom is not only an important and desirable property in its own right, but is also a prerequisite for the soundness of our model checking algorithm. Even though deadlock is inherently non-compositional and is not preserved by classical abstractions, our iterative algorithm employs both (non-standard) abstractions and compositional reasoning to alleviate the state-space explosion problem. The resulting framework differs in key respects from other instances of the counterexample-guided abstraction refinement paradigm found in the literature.

We have implemented this work in the magic verification tool for concurrent C programs and performed tests on a broad set of benchmarks. Our experiments show that this new approach not only eases the writing of specifications, but also yields important gains both in space and in time during verification. In certain cases, we even encountered specifications that could not be verified using traditional pure event-based or state-based approaches, but became tractable within our state/event framework. We also recorded substantial reductions in time and memory consumption when performing deadlock-freedom checks with our new abstractions. Finally, we report two bugs (including a deadlock) in the source code of Micro-C/OS versions 2.0 and 2.7, which we discovered during our experiments.
Approaches for chemically synthesized siRNA and vector‐mediated RNAi
Authors: Amarzguioui Mohammed , Rossi John J. , Kim Dongho
Published: September 2005

Successful applications of RNAi in mammalian cells depend upon effective knockdown of targeted transcripts and efficient intracellular delivery of either preformed si/shRNAs or vector expressed si/shRNAs. We have previously demonstrated that 27 base pair double stranded RNAs which are substrates for Dicer can be up to 100 times more potent than 21mer siRNAs. In this mini‐review we elaborate upon the rationale and design strategies for creating Dicer substrate RNAs that provide enhanced knockdown of targeted RNAs and minimize the utilization of the sense strand as RNAi effectors. Expression of shRNAs or siRNAs in mammalian cells can be achieved via transcription from either Pol II or Pol III promoters. There are certain constrictions in designing such vectors, and these are described here. Additionally, we review strategies for inducible shRNA expression and the various viral vectors that can be used to transduce shRNA genes into a variety of cells and tissues. The overall goal of this mini‐review is to provide an overview of available approaches for optimizing RNAi mediated down regulation of gene expression in mammalian cells via RNA interference. Although the primary focus is the use of RNAi mediated cleavage of targeted transcripts, it is highly probable that some of the approaches described herein will be applicable to RNAi mediated inhibition of translation and transcriptional gene silencing.
A Cadaver Study of the Effects of Dorsal Angulation and Shortening of the Metacarpal Shaft on the Extension and Flexion Force Ratios of the Index and Little Fingers
Authors: LOW C. K. , WONG H. C. , LOW Y. P. , WONG H. P.
Published: September 2005

Two experiments were performed on the second and fifth metacarpals of five normal cadaver hands. The forces obtained on full extension and flexion of the digits were measured. An oblique osteotomy was performed on the shaft of the metacarpal and fixed with dorsal angulation. The forces obtained on extension and flexion of the digits were measured. The relationships between the changes in force and the angle were analyzed. Flexion force decreased and extension force increased as the dorsal angulation increased, and these were significant beyond 30° of dorsal angulation. The differences between index and little fingers were not significant.

In the second experiment, the metacarpal bone was shortened at the osteotomy site, and the same measurements made. Flexion and extension forces both decreased, and were significant beyond 3 mm of shortening. The differences between index and little fingers were not significant.
The Epidemiology and Management of Upper Limb Peripheral Nerve Injuries in Modern Practice
Authors: McALLISTER R. M. R. , GILBERT S. E. A. , CALDER J. S. , SMITH P. J.
Published: September 2005

This paper reports an epidemiological and clinical study of 813 patients with 1,111 peripheral nerve injuries who were treated for upper limb trauma, which included nerve injury, at two plastic surgery units in south-east England, predominantly between the years 1982 and 1991. The frequency distributions of the levels of nerve injury, and the causes of nerve injury in the sample, are presented, together with the surgical management and timing of nerve repair in these patients. 1,018 clinically suspected nerve injuries in 730 patients (91.6% of nerves, 89.8% of patients) were treated by primary nerve repair, elective delayed nerve repair or primary surgical exploration alone. Divisions of 93 nerves in 83 patients (8.3% of nerves, 10.2% of patients) were treated other than by primary repair or elective delayed repair, due to delayed referral from accident and emergency departments, resulting from missed or uncertain diagnosis at presentation or otherwise unaccounted delay in the initial referral.
Reconstruction of the Flexor Tendon Sheath
Authors: OEI T. S. , KLOPPER P. J. , SPAAS J. A. J. , BUMA P.
Published: September 2005

The role of the tendon sheath in flexor tendon healing was investigated in rabbits. Tendon sheath was reconstructed with syngeneic parietal peritoneum or a non-tanned processed porcine collagen membrane.

Resection of the tendon sheath led to adhesions. Reconstruction of the sheath with either graft resulted in a synovial–like lining, resembling a neo-tendon sheath. Even when combined with tendon repair a neo-tendon sheath was seen after reconstruction with both grafts, without adhesions. Subcutaneously implanted processed porcine collagen membrane was completely resorbed in less than 3 months.
Human Composite Flexor Tendon Allografts
Authors: ASENCIO G. , ABIHAIDAR G. , LEONARDI C.
Published: September 2005

We report two cases in whom human composite flexor tendon allografts were used, and followed-up for more than 5 years. The results show a real improvement in function, without any complications.
A Neurovascular Island Flap for Volar-Oblique Fingertip Amputations
Authors: TSAI T-M , YUEN JC
Published: September 2005

A neurovascular island flap has been developed to reconstruct volar-oblique fingertip amputations. This study analyzes the data collected on 16 patients who were treated with this flap and had at least 2 years follow-up. The average active/passive range of motion was 54/55° at the DIP joint, 96/98° at the PIP joint, and 83/83° at the MP joint. Twelve out of 16 flaps (75%) had two-point discrimination better than 10 ram. Moderate and severe problems included cold intolerance (six patients), hypersensitivity (three patients), stiffness (three patients), and numbness (two patients). Out of the 16 patients treated with this technique, 14 were satisfied with their surgical outcome. In experienced hands, this technique is a safe and reliable method with which to reconstruct volar-oblique fingertip amputations.
Giant Cell Tumour of Metacarpal with Pulmonary and Skeletal Metastases
Authors: SANJAY B. K. S. , YOUNGE D. A.
Published: September 2005

A case of giant cell tumour of the left fifth metacarpal with pulmonary and skeletal metastases is reported with follow-up of 14 years. The pulmonary metastases were treated by chemotherapy, but the size of the metastatic nodules continued to increase, and no further treatment was given. The pulmonary metastatic nodules started to regress 8 years after the diagnosis without any treatment, and had disappeared after 14 years. The skeletal metastases were unchanged at the latest follow-up. Both pulmonary and skeletal metastases have been asymptomatic for the 14 years after they were diagnosed.

It is suggested that pulmonary metastases of benign giant cell tumour has a good long-term prognosis and these patients should be kept under observation only, avoiding extensive lobectomy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Glomus Tumours of the Hand
Authors: VAN GEERTRUYDEN J. , LOREA P. , GOLDSCHMIDT D. , de FONTAINE S. , SCHUIND F. , KINNEN L. , LEDOUX P. , MOERMANS J.-P.
Published: September 2005

The authors report a series of 51 patients with glomus tumours in the hand. The duration of symptoms before treatment averaged 10 years. No one site or finger was more commonly involved. Objective features were limited to a blue discoloration in 29%, a pulp nodule or a nail deformity in 33%. An osseous defect was seen on plain X-ray films in 36%. Diagnosis depended on clinical suspicion in 90%. Careful dissection and complete excision of the tumour almost always offer permanent relief. A direct transungual approach was used in the subungual tumours with only one cosmetic problem. Recurrence of symptoms occurred in only two cases after a pain-free interval of 2 years.
Gantzer’s Muscle
Authors: AL-QATTAN M. M.
Published: September 2005

The relationship of Gantzer’s muscle (the accessory head of flexor pollicis longus; FPL) to the median nerve and its anterior interosseous branch is debated. In an anatomical study of 25 limbs, the incidence, origin, insertion, nerve supply and relations of Gantzer’s muscle have been documented. The muscle was found in 13 of the 25 (52%) limbs and was supplied by the anterior interosseous nerve. It arose from the medial humeral epicondyle in 85% and had a dual origin from the epicondyle and coronoid process in the rest. Its insertion was to the ulnar part of FPL and its tendon. Gantzer’s muscle always lay posterior to both the median and anterior interosseous nerves. Anatomical variations in which Gantzer’s muscle may contribute to median nerve compression in pronator syndrome are discussed.
Trapeziectomy Alone, with Tendon Interposition or with Ligament Reconstruction?
Authors: DAVIS T. R. C. , BRADY O. , BARTON N. J. , LUNN P. G. , BURKE F. D.
Published: September 2005

This randomized prospective study compared the results of trapeziectomy alone, or combined with tendon interposition or ligament reconstruction in 76 women with basal thumb osteoarthritis. At 3 month and 1 year follow-up the results of the three procedures were indistinguishable in terms of pain relief, hand function and thumb strength. In the short term at least, tendon interposition and ligament reconstruction do not improve the results of trapeziectomy.
Operative Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Denmark
Authors: EBSKOV L. B. , BOECKSTYNS M. E. H. , SØRENSEN A. I.
Published: September 2005

The aim of our study was to determine the incidence of operative treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome in Denmark and to see whether there was a consensus about the place of preoperative electromyography and nerve conduction studies. A questionnaire was mailed to all surgical departments (n = 70) and all registered private surgical practices (n = 214) in Denmark. The incidence of operation was about 0.61 per 1,000 population. Most surgeons used preoperative electromyograms and nerve conduction studies in less than 50% of cases. The use of preoperative testing was related to the surgical speciality.