bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alteration of central motor excitability in a patient with hemimasticatory spasm after treatment with botulinum toxin injections
Authors: Mir Pablo , Gilio Francesca , Edwards Mark , Inghilleri Maurizio , Bhatia Kailash P. , Rothwell John C. , Quinn Niall
Published: August 2005

Hemimasticatory spasm (HMS) is a condition characterized by paroxysmal involuntary contraction of masticatory muscles. We performed an electrophysiological investigation of a single patient with HMS to identify any pathophysiological changes associated with the condition. We identified a delayed M wave and jaw jerk on the affected side and an absent masseteric silent period during spasm. Botulinum toxin injections successfully treated the clinical symptoms and resulted in a significant reduction in the excitability of the blink reflex recovery cycle. These data suggest that HMS may be due to ectopic activity in the motor portion of the trigeminal nerve that is capable of inducing changes in the excitability of central reflex pathways. These changes can be altered by successful treatment with botulinum toxin. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Staged bilateral stereotactic pallidothalamotomy for life‐threatening dystonia in a child with Hallervorden–Spatz disease
Authors: Balas Istvan , Kovacs Norbert , Hollody Katalin
Published: August 2005

Hallervorden–Spatz disease (HSD) is a rare disorder characterized by progressive motor dysfunction and dementia. Dystonia is the most prominent and disabling symptom, responding only to a modest extent to pharmacological therapy. At the moment, only a few cases have been reported to improve dystonia and even fewer to resolve status dystonicus for a longer period in children. The authors present the case of a 10‐year‐old boy who had progressive generalized dystonia, resulting in spontaneous femur fracture and life‐threatening swallowing and respiratory disability. As a rescue solution, staged bilateral pallidothalamotomy was performed. Postoperatively, Burke–Fahn–Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale and Dystonia Disability Rating Scale improved (from 116 and 30 points to 41 and 18 points, respectively) and painful dystonia was resolved, which was still continuous 4 years later (47 and 20 points). Stereotactic staged bilateral pallidothalamotomy should be considered as a potential treatment in the management of life‐threatening generalized dystonia related to HSD. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Use of complementary therapies in patients with Parkinson's disease in Singapore
Authors: Tan Louis C.S. , Lau Puay‐Ngoh , Jamora Roland Dominic G. , Chan Edwin S.Y.
Published: August 2005

To determine the frequency and spectrum of complementary therapy (CT) use and its association with sociodemographic or disease‐specific characteristics among Asian patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) in Singapore, we interviewed 159 patients using a structured questionnaire. Sixty‐one percent (95% CI = 55–67) of participants used at least one type of CT for PD, of which the most common were traditional medicine, acupuncture, and vitamins/health supplements. Among CT users, 40% (95% CI = 32–48) subjectively reported some improvement of their symptoms. However, only 16% informed their physicians of their use of CT. Due to unequal follow‐up times, a survival analysis approach was adopted for statistical analysis. The rate of starting CT use was 1.2/100 person months. At 3 years after PD diagnosis, 48% had started using CT. Among a subgroup of participants, those with a baseline Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale motor score of more than 16 were 2.5 times more likely to use CT compared to those with a baseline score of 16 or less (P = 0.031; 95% CI = 1.1–5.8). CT use was not associated with age of onset of PD or other sociodemographic factors. The use of CT is high among Asian PD patients. Patients with more severe motor dysfunction at onset are more likely to use CT. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Deep brain stimulation to treat hyperkinetic symptoms of cockayne syndrome
Authors: Hebb Matthew O. , Gaudet Paula , Mendez Ivar
Published: August 2005

Cockayne syndrome manifests a spectrum of neurological dysfunction that includes medically intractable movement disorders. Deep brain stimulation has not been well studied in such rare neurodegenerative conditions. In this case, stimulation of the ventral intermediate nucleus of the thalamus was used to manage severe motor symptoms in a young man with Cockayne syndrome. There was a marked and progressive response to thalamic stimulation within weeks of surgery. These results suggest that patients with Cockayne syndrome should be considered for deep brain stimulation to treat refractory movement disorders. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Homocysteine and serum markers of immune activation in primary dystonia
Authors: Muller Ulf J. , Frick Barbara , Winkler Christiana , Fuchs Dietmar , Wenning Gregor K. , Poewe Werner , Mueller Joerg
Published: August 2005

The cause of primary dystonia remains unknown. Several reports point to immune system disturbances in primary dystonia and a recent study demonstrated hyperhomocysteinemia in cervical dystonia. Homocysteine (HCY) is an amino acid and elevated HCY concentrations were shown to be associated with immune system activation and increased neopterin serum concentrations. We examined HCY serum concentrations together with serum markers of immune activation in patients with different types of primary dystonia. Eighty‐three patients with different types of primary dystonia were included and investigated at least 3 months following botulinum toxin treatment. Thirty‐six healthy volunteers with similar age and sex distribution served as controls. Total serum HCY, kynurenine, and tryptophan concentrations were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography; neopterin, folate, and vitamin B12 concentrations were measured by immunoassays. Routine blood analysis, including C‐reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and white blood count (WBC), was performed. Patients with primary dystonia had significantly higher HCY concentrations compared to controls. Among the dystonia subtypes, no significant difference of HCY serum concentrations was observed. CRP and ESR were within the normal range in >90% of the patients and all had normal WBC. Neopterin, kynurenine, and tryptophan serum concentrations were similar in patients and controls and not correlated with HCY serum concentrations. The results provide evidence against enhanced cellular immune activation in patients with primary dystonia. However, hyperhomocysteinemia was present in all dystonia subtypes and unrelated to immune activation in this study. HCY is a neuronal excitotoxic amino acid and hyperhomocysteinemia is considered an independent vascular risk factor. Further studies are required to define the background of hyperhomocysteinemia in primary dystonia. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
In vivo imaging of microglial activation with [11C](R)‐PK11195 PET in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Gerhard Alexander , Trender‐Gerhard Iris , Turkheimer Federico , Quinn Niall P. , Bhatia Kailash P. , Brooks David J.
Published: August 2005

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative disease presenting with voluntary gaze difficulties, early falls, and Parkinsonism. Neuronal loss, associated with intracellular neurofibrillary tangles and activated microglia, is found targeting the basal ganglia, brainstem nuclei, and frontal cortex. [11C](R)‐PK11195 PET is a marker of peripheral benzodiazepine binding sites (PBBS) expressed by activated microglia. We have used [11C](R)‐PK11195 PET to demonstrate in vivo the degree and distribution of the glial response to the degenerative process in four patients with PSP. Compared to normal age‐matched controls, the PSP patient group showed significantly increased mean [11C](R)‐PK11195 binding in the basal ganglia, midbrain, the frontal lobe, and the cerebellum. Two of the patients were rescanned after 6 to 10 months and during that time the level of microglial activation remained stable. [11C](R)‐PK11195 PET reveals a pattern of increased microglial activation in PSP patients involving cortical and subcortical regions that corresponds well with the known distribution of neuropathological changes. [11C](R)‐PK11195 PET, therefore, may help in characterizing in vivo the underlying disease activity in PSP. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Capacity allocation with machine duplication in semiconductor manufacturing
Authors: Çatay Bülent , Erengüç Ş. Selçuk , Vakharia Asoo J.
Published: August 2005

The manufacturing process for a computer chip is complex in that it involves a large number of distinct operations requiring a substantial lead‐time for completion. Our observations of such a manufacturing process at a large plant in the United States led us to identify several tactical and operational problems that were being addressed by the production planners on a recurring basis. This paper focuses on one such problem. At a tactical level, given a demand forecast of wafers to be manufactured, one specific problem deals with specifying which machine or machine groups will process different batches of wafers. We address this problem by recognizing the capacity limitations of the individual machines as well as the requirement for reducing operating and investment costs related to the machines. A mathematical model, which is a variation of the well‐known capacitated facility location problem, is proposed to solve this problem. Given the intractability of the model, we first develop problem specific lower bounding procedures based on Lagrangean relaxation. We also propose a heuristic method to obtain “good” solutions with reasonable computational effort. Computational tests, using hypothetical and industry‐based data, indicate that our heuristic approach provides optimal/near optimal solutions fairly quickly. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2005
Measuring the Big Five with single items using a bipolar response scale
Authors: Woods Stephen A. , Hampson Sarah E.
Published: August 2005

The convergence on the Big Five in personality theory has produced a demand for efficient yet psychometrically sound measures. Therefore, five single‐item measures, using bipolar response scales, were constructed to measure the Big Five and evaluated in terms of their convergent and off‐diagonal divergent properties, their pattern of criterion correlations and their reliability when compared with four longer Big Five measures. In a combined sample (N = 791) the Single‐Item Measures of Personality (SIMP) demonstrated a mean convergence of r = 0.61 with the longer scales. The SIMP also demonstrated acceptable reliability, self–other accuracy, and divergent correlations, and a closely similar pattern of criterion correlations when compared with the longer scales. It is concluded that the SIMP offer a reasonable alternative to longer scales, balancing the demands of brevity versus reliability and validity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Constructive thinking as a mediator of the relationship between extraversion, neuroticism, and subjective well‐being
Authors: Harris Peter Rustin , Lightsey Owen Richard
Published: August 2005

Mechanisms by which personality affects well‐being are not well understood. Following recommendations to examine intermediate process variables that may help explain the personality–subjective well‐being (SWB) relationship, the authors tested whether constructive thinking (CT) mediated the relationships between both neuroticism and extraversion and SWB components. Measures of each construct were administered to 147 undergraduate volunteers twice over four weeks. In analyses controlling for time 1 SWB and time 2 mood, time 2 CT fully mediated the relationship between time 1 neuroticism and time 2 negative affect and emerged as a strong predictor of negative affect (inversely), positive affect, and happiness. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The relation of personality types to physiological, behavioural, and cognitive processes
Authors: Hart Daniel , Burock Debra , London Bonita , Atkins Robert , Bonilla‐Santiago Gloria
Published: August 2005

Three personality types, labeled resilient, over‐controlled, and under‐controlled, were identified through cluster analysis of classroom observations of 63 children, and used to understand biological, cognitive, and behavioural processes that influence academic achievement and aggression. Resilient children were found to be high in trait cortisol and high in academic achievement. Under‐controlled and over‐controlled children showed the greatest change in cortisol levels under stress, low levels of academic achievement, and attributed hostility to others in ambiguous situations. Under‐controlled children also exhibited high levels of externalizing behaviour in the classroom. The findings suggest that the single processes or traits assessed in this study do not mediate the associations of personality types to academic achievement and behaviour. The implications of the findings for the personality type construct and for personality processes are discussed. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identity styles and causality orientations: in search of the motivational underpinnings of the identity exploration process
Authors: Soenens Bart , Berzonsky Michael D. , Vansteenkiste Maarten , Beyers Wim , Goossens Luc
Published: August 2005

This study examines relationships between constructs based on two perspectives on the development of self‐governance, namely Self‐Determination Theory (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 2000) and Berzonsky's (1990) identity style model. Theoretically predictable relationships are found between the three causality orientations defined by SDT (autonomous, controlled, and impersonal) and the three identity styles proposed by Berzonsky (informational, normative, diffuse–avoidant) in a sample of Belgian late adolescents. An autonomous causality orientation is positively related to an informational identity style and negatively related to a diffuse–avoidant style. A controlled orientation is positively associated with a normative identity style, and an impersonal orientation is positively related to a diffuse–avoidant identity style. Participants' gender does not moderate these relationships. The findings suggest that the causality orientations late adolescents employ may play an important role in how actively and thoroughly they explore identity‐relevant issues. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distinguishing among models and goals in personality science: comment on Ashton and Lee (2005)
Authors: Cervone Daniel
Published: August 2005

This comment notes a misrepresentation of work by Caprara and Cervone (2000) contained in a recent contribution to this journal (Ashton & Lee, 2005). This occurrence is taken as an opportunity to highlight a positive development in personality science: investigators' increasing awareness of distinctions among alternative conceptual models that address qualitatively distinct scientific goals that each fall within the confines of the professional field. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Between‐ and within‐person structures of personality: response to Cervone (2005)
Authors: Lee Kibeom , Ashton Michael C.
Published: August 2005

Our response to Cervone (2005) can be summarized as follows. The factor structure of intraindividual fluctuations in personality‐related variables does not bear on the evaluation of a model of (interindividual) personality structure. Even if such a model is associated with claims regarding the causal origins of its dimensions, this does not imply that the sources of between‐person differences would be expected to be the same as the sources of within‐person fluctuations. Moreover, observed differences between intraindividual and interindividual structures do not undermine the applicability of the latter to the description of individuals' personalities. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How do patients who participate in cancer support groups differ from those who do not?
Authors: Grande G.E. , Myers L.B. , Sutton S.R.
Published: August 2005

Research has shown that cancer patients in general benefit from support group participation. However, few patients attend such groups. This study investigated differences between participants of a community cancer support group and a random selection of non‐participants from the Cancer Registry. Data were collected through mail survey, and included variables identified through past research and variables derived from Leventhal's self‐regulatory model of illness representations and the theory of planned behaviour. Sixty‐three support group participants and 44 comparison sample respondents were recruited. Support group participants were more likely to be female, without a partner, younger, and to have more education and formal support than non‐participants. They held more favourable views of support groups, believed that significant others were favourable towards participation, and perceived less difficulty in joining a group. They furthermore used more active, adaptive coping strategies and felt more control over their cancer, but were more distressed and anxious. Non‐participants reported more support from a special person. A multivariate logistic regression analysis showed only psychosocial variables to be independent predictors of participation. As psychological variables are amenable to change, increase of appropriate support group participation should be possible, for instance by addressing patients' beliefs about support groups. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Support‐seeking, perceived support, and anxiety in mothers and fathers after children's cancer treatment
Authors: Norberg Annika Lindahl , Lindblad Frank , Boman Krister K.
Published: August 2005

The objective was to examine the relationships between anxiety, the seeking of social support as a coping strategy, and perceived social support among mothers (n=103) and fathers (n=81) of children with successfully completed treatment for cancer. Assessments were done using self‐report instruments. The mediating effect of perceived support on the relationship between social support‐seeking and anxiety was evaluated through path analysis, and comparisons were done in order to evaluate effects of gender.

For mothers and fathers alike, a positive relationship of moderate strength between support‐seeking and perceived support was found. Anxiety was negatively related to support‐seeking (mothers r=−0.22, p=0.025; fathers r=−0.21, p=0.063) as well as perceived support (mothers r=−0.55, p<0.001; fathers r=−0.41, p<0.001), although the relationship for support‐seeking was weak. The path analysis showed that perceived support only to a minor extent could strengthen this association. The significance of support‐seeking and perceived support was stronger for mothers than for fathers, as regards their association with anxiety. However, the patterns of interrelations were similar for mothers and fathers. In conclusion, parents' subjectively perceived support appears to be more important for anxiety regulation than their support‐seeking coping. In clinical practice, individual variation should be acknowledged, and presumptions of general gender differences avoided. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
System behaviour of wood truss assemblies
Authors: Gupta Rakesh
Published: August 2005

Wood truss assemblies are widely used in light frame construction all over the world. Although the volume of literature on single trusses and joints is relatively huge, the system behaviour of truss assemblies has received only limited attention. The main approach to take into account the system behaviour of an assembly is to use a system factor in the design of single trusses. However, technical advances now make it possible to analyse and design these complex assemblies as systems using three‐dimensional structural analysis programs, thereby including the system effect directly. This paper presents an overview of previous research on system behaviour of truss assemblies and recommends a system design approach to designing truss assemblies.
Binding energy of impurity states in a parabolic quantum dot in a strong magnetic field
Authors: Peter A. John , Gnanasekar K. , Navaneethakrishnan K.
Published: August 2005

The binding energies of shallow hydrogenic impurities in parabolic quantum dots are calculated using a variational approach within the effective mass approximation. Results are obtained for CdMnTe/CdMnTe structures as a function of the dot radius in an external magnetic field. The results show that the impurity binding energy (i) increases with the decrease in dot radius, (ii) decreases when the magnetic field is increased for a given dot and (iii) increases to a maximum value at 90 Å and then decreases as the size of the dot increases beyond 90 Å in the finite barrier case. This feature is different from non magnetic quantum well structures. Spin polaronic shifts are estimated using a mean field theory. The results show that the shifts are ≤1 meV in the zero‐field case and still smaller in a magnetic field. This shift not only decreases in a magnetic field but also decreases when the dot radius increases. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Kinetic Ising model in two and three dimensions with constraints
Authors: Kuhlmann Claudia , Trimper Steffen , Schulz Michael
Published: August 2005

We present the dynamics of the kinetically constrained Ising model, comprised of a system of spins coupled with the strength J and situated in a field which plays the role of activation energy. Due to kinetic constraints, glassy effects arise at low temperatures leading to a non‐Arrhenius α‐relaxation time. The results of Monte Carlo simulations are presented for the 2D and 3D facilitated kinetic Ising model with nonzero coupling J. The spin autocorrelation function exhibits, in a broad intermediate time regime, a pronounced stretched exponential decay characterized by an exponent γ. Whereas the relaxation time depends strongly on the activation energy and the interaction strength J, we find a non‐universal stretching exponent γ depending on the temperature and on J. In 3D the autocorrelation function shows a crossover into a pure exponential decay consistent with theoretical predictions. The magnetization is also analyzed and identified as a control parameter of the system. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Hyperfine structure associated with the dominant radiation‐induced trapped hole center in RbTiOPO4 crystals
Authors: Jiang Yongquan , Halliburton L. E. , Roth M. , Tseitlin M. , Angert N.
Published: August 2005

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and electron‐nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) have been used to characterize the complex hyperfine patterns exhibited by the primary radiation‐induced trapped hole center in single crystals of RbTiOPO4 (commonly referred to as RTP). These defects are produced at 77 K by irradiating with X‐rays, and they are destroyed by raising the temperature above approximately 170 K. In this center, the hole resides on a bridging oxygen ion located between two titanium ions and is stabilized by a nearby rubidium vacancy. Hyperfine splittings from interactions with one rubidium neighbor and one phosphorus neighbor are resolved in the EPR spectra. The ENDOR spectra show one larger phosphorus interaction and four smaller phosphorus interactions. Principal values and principal axis directions for this larger phosphorus interaction are obtained from the ENDOR angular dependence. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural property and half‐metallicity for 3d transition metals on GaAs surface
Authors: Kang Byung‐Sub , Chung Jean‐Soo , Kang Hee‐Jae , Oh Suhk‐Kun
Published: August 2005

The structural and magnetic properties of the surface and interface are studied for the hypothetical zinc‐blende phase of 1–2 monolayers (MLs) M (= Cr, Mn, Fe, or Co) on GaAs(001) or AsGa(001) by first‐principles calculations. We present the energetics for the systems of mixed M(Ga,As) and of a M overlayer on the substrate in order to obtain a systematic understanding of interfacial mixing. A heterointerfacial mixing of M(Ga,As) on GaAs(001) or AsGa(001), which consists of a tetrahedrally coordinated M atom of an empty site, is energetically favorable. The mixed M(Ga,As) (hypothetical zinc‐blende) with 1–2 ML M on GaAs(001) is more energetically stable than the zinc‐blende M(Ga,As). A surface Cr atom on an As‐terminated substrate retains the half‐metallicity in the case of 1–2 ML M with a zinc‐blende lattice, while it disappears for the surface Cr atom of the Ga termination. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spectroscopic studies of 2H‐PbI2(Mn) layered crystals
Authors: Motsnyi F. V. , Dorogan V. G. , Kovalyuk Z. D. , Okulov S. M. , Yaremko A. M.
Published: August 2005

For the first time we studied Raman, exciton and EPR spectra of PbI2 layered crystals of 2H polytype doped with high concentration of Mn impurity. A novel type of Fermi resonance was found. The anomalous temperature shift of the exciton band n = 1 was registered. It was shown that this shift can be explained by means of anharmonic vibrations of layered lattice at T < 40 K and low‐frequency optical phonons at T > 40 K. The manifestation of single and exchange‐bound Mn2+ ions in EPR spectra was observed. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Field electron energy spectroscopy of alumina‐supported platinum adatoms
Authors: Cörper A. , Bozdech G. , Ernst N. , Klüner T. , Freund H.‐J.
Published: August 2005

Field electron energy spectroscopy and density functional calculations have been employed to characterize electronic properties of single Pt‐adatoms deposited on a thin alumina film. For Pt/Al2O3/NiAl(110) strong current enhancements were measured about 1.4 eV below the Fermi energy. No features were observed for clean Al2O3/NiAl(110) and Pt/NiAl(110) in the accessible energy range. As an explanation we propose a resonance tunneling mechanism involving an occupied electronic state of the Pt adatom close to the Fermi level. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Intersubband transitions in coupled triple‐graded quantum wells under an electric field
Authors: Kasapoglu E. , Sari H. , Sokmen I.
Published: August 2005

The intersubband transitions were calculated in three different shaped triple‐graded quantum wells. The investigation involved changing the depth of the central well potential under an electric field applied parallel to the growth direction. By changing the depth of the central well potential, one can tune the resonance photon energy. This tunability gives a possibility for the realization of near‐infrared electro‐absorption modulators and detectors. In addition, the absorption coefficient as a function of the incident photon energy was obtained for the 1–2 transition in a triple square quantum well structure having the same physical parameters as the triple‐graded quantum well structure. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Transmission properties of light through the Family B of generalized Thue–Morse multilayers
Authors: Chen Fuming , Yang Xiangbo
Published: August 2005

In this paper, we study the transmission properties of light through the Family B of Generalized Thue–Morse (FBGTM(m)) aperiodic multilayers and find that for the normal incidence of light there exist three kinds of cases for propagation matrices and corresponding transmission coefficients: (1) when m is even, the former are two‐circular and the latter are constant; (2) when m = 1, the former and the latter are all constant; (3) when m is odd but does not equal to 1, the former are all diagonal except 1st‐generation system. The two non‐zero elements are count‐downs for each other and decrease or increase rapidly with the increase of both the generation number l and the parameter m. The latter are constant when l ≤ 2 and tend to be zero when l ≥ 3. The analytic results are confirmed by numerical simulations. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
One‐dimensional XY antiferromagnetic Heisenberg model with nearest and next nearest neighbour exchange interactions
Authors: Gouvêa M. E. , Pires A. S. T.
Published: August 2005

We study the one‐dimensional anisotropic antiferromagnetic Heisenberg model with competing interactions using the self‐consistent harmonic approximation. The dispersion relation, the correlation function and the susceptibility are obtained for several values of the ratio δ = J2/J1 between the nearest (J1) and next nearest neighbour exchange interactions (J2). For δ < 0.25, the pair correlation function decays monotonically and exponentially to zero and the susceptibility has a maximum value at q = π. For J2 > 0.25J1, the exponential decay of the pair correlation is modified by an oscillatory behavior while the maximum of the susceptibility does not necessarily occur at q = π. Furthermore, the phase diagram of a system with weakly coupled chains is considered. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thermally induced carbon–oxygen complexes in GaAs
Authors: Ulrici W. , Jurisch M.
Published: August 2005

In LEC‐grown oxygen‐containing GaAs, a vibrational absorption line is observed at 2059.6 cm–1 for T = 7 K after long‐time annealing at (700 ± 100) °C. This line is due to the stretching mode of a 12C–16O complex, since the line due to the isotopically shifted 13C–16O mode is observed at 2003.8 cm–1. Several other 12C–16O stretching modes found in this frequency region are assigned to C–O complexes with different environments. The formation of C–O complexes around 700 °C becomes possible as a result of the mobility of oxygen atoms. After the same annealing procedure, two vibrational lines are measured at 1828.2 and 1891.4 cm–1 for T = 7 K and assigned to the stretching modes of an 11B–16O (10B–16O) complex. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Pressure dependence of the melting temperature of aluminum
Authors: Zou Yong , Chen Li‐rong
Published: August 2005

On the basis of Lindemann's law, the Debye model, and the assumption that the quantity αBT is constant above the Debye temperature, the melting temperature of aluminum was calculated for a wide range of pressure with the help of the P–V–T relationships based on the Chopelas–Boehler approximation. The calculated results of the melting temperature versus pressure are in good agreement with experimental values. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electronic band structure of high‐index silicon nanowires
Authors: Scheel H. , Reich S. , Thomsen C.
Published: August 2005

We calculated the electronic properties of high‐index free‐standing silicon nanowires. [11$ \bar 2 $] nanowires are indirect semiconductors for diameters down to 0.8 nm; [110] wires have a direct band gap at the Γ‐point, but the density of states is very small at the conduction band edge. Confinement arguments show that only [001] nanowires are expected to develop a direct gap with a large density of electronic states at the band edges for diameters in the nm range. The magnitude of the gap depends strongly on the wire growth direction, which is due to the different effective confinement length and effective masses for the Γ X‐derived silicon states. Correcting for the extension of the wave functions we find our calculated energies to agree with recent scanning tunneling experiments. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Flexor Synovectomy in the Rheumatoid Hand
Authors: HARRISON STEWART H. , ANSELL BARBARA , ANN HALL M.
Published: August 2005

A review of the types, signs and symptoms of synovitis of the flexor surface of the hand. Indications, contra-indications and the results of surgery are discussed.
Contracture of Fingers Due to Fixation of the Flexor Profundus Digitorum to the Ulna
Authors: JEFFERY C. C.
Published: August 2005

Two cases are reported where limitation of extension of one or more fingers resulted from fixation of the flexor profundus digitorum to the ring finger at the site of a fracture of the ulna.
Hand Injuries Due to Soccer
Authors: CURTIN J. , KAY NEVILLE R. M.
Published: August 2005

Fifty-two hand injuries due to soccer were seen in one season. Approximately one-third of these were in goalkeepers, due mainly to contact with the ball; two-thirds were in other members of the team, due to either contact with a player or the ground.
Experience with Thumb Reconstruction
Authors: MORRISON WAYNE A. , McC. O’BRIEN BERNARD , MacLEOD ALLAN M.
Published: August 2005

Thumb function necessitates adequate length, mobility, stability, sensation, aesthetics and capacity for growth in children.
Determining the Recipient Site for a Sensory Island Pedicle
Authors: CUNNINGHAM M. W. , YOUSIF N. J. , SANGER J. R. , MILES JILL M. , MATLOUB H. S.
Published: August 2005

When performing a sensory island transfer for restoration of sensibility to an area of pinch, one must be accurate in determining the recipient site. We present a simple and precise means of determining the recipient site for a sensory island transfer by ink-blotting the areas of contact of the thumb and index finger.
V—Y “Cup” Flap for Volar Oblique Amputation of Fingers
Authors: FURLOW LEONARD T.
Published: August 2005

For fingers left shorter volarly after finger-tip amputation, a volar V-Y amputation flap designed with the V-Y portion at the middle phalanx level and using the Snow cupping technique for reconstruction of the pulp and tip has provided good sensation, padding and contour. Hypersensitivity and beaking of the nail have not been problems.
Histocompatibility Antigen Patterns in Dupuytren's Contracture
Authors: SPENCER J. D. , WALSH K. I.
Published: August 2005

Thirty-seven consecutive patients with Dupuytren’s Contracture were investigated by tissue typing techniques to ascertain their HLA—A, B, C and DR antigen status. Whilst no definite HLA antigen was found in association with this disease, at least one possibly significant pattern of HLA DR antigens was found in these patients. This finding was also noted in patients with scleroderma, and the scleroderma-like syndrome induced by vinyl chloride exposure.
The Conservative Management of Fractures of the Shafts of the Phalanges of the Fingers by Combined Traction-Splintage
Authors: FITZGERALD J. A. W. , KHAN M. A.
Published: August 2005

Recent publications discussing fractures of the shafts of the phalanges of the fingers discount their management by traction because of possible complications and difficulties of application. A technique using splintage combined with isometric skin traction, used for many years in Southampton, has proved effective and free of complications. The results of the treatment of eighteen consecutive appropriate fractures using this technique are discussed.
Replacement of Destroyed Metacarpal Heads by Autografting Metatarsal Heads
Authors: MIKKELSEN OTTO A.
Published: August 2005

A surgical procedure of replacing a destroyed metacarpal head with a metatarsal graft is described. With this method internal fixation with foreign material as well as postoperative immobilisation can be avoided. A follow up of 25 autotransplantations in rheumatoid patients is presented, showing no complications and fair function of the new operated joint.
The use of Totally De-Proteinized Heterologous Bone Graft in non-Union of the Scaphoid
Authors: CRAWFORD R. J. , GUPTA A. , RISITANO G. , BURKE F. D.
Published: August 2005

In an attempt to avoid the complications associated with taking autologous bone graft for use in the treatment of non-union of the scaphoid, a clinical trial of the use of totally de-proteinized heterologous bone graft has been carried out. Ten patients with established non-union of the scaphoid were treated with internal fixation and grafting using one such commercially available material, Pyrosp®. The clinical and radiological results in eight patients about one year later are reported. The operative use of this material proved difficult because of its poor mechanical properties and it is not recommended as a substitute for the patient’s own bone.
Scaphoid Non-Union with D.I.S.I. Deformity
Authors: NAKAMURA R. , IMAEDA T. , TSUGE S. , WATANABE K.
Published: August 2005

To clarify whether or not scapho-lunate ligamentous injury is common in scaphoid non-union with D.I.S.I. deformity and whether ligamentous repair is required to treat scaphoid non-union with D.I.S.I. deformity, roentgenographic, arthrographic and arthroscopic findings were analysed and compared to those of scaphoid non-union without D.I.S.I. deformity. The carpal alignment of scaphoid non-union with D.I.S.I. deformity treated by reduction and anterior wedge grafting without ligamentous repair was also studied. No significant difference in the scapho-lunate gap was present between 26 patients with D.I.S.I. deformity and 20 without. No statistically significant difference was detected in the incidence of arthrographically-proved scapho-lunate ligamentous tears between the two groups. Arthroscopic examination carried out in 22 patients did not detect massive ligamentous injury, and carpal alignment was satisfactory in most patients who underwent anterior wedge grafting. These results show that ligamentous injury rarely causes D.I.S.I. deformity in scaphoid non-union, and anterior wedge grafting alone is sufficient to correct D.I.S.I. deformity in most cases.
Hand Injuries in Cricketers
Authors: BELLIAPPA P. P. , BARTON N. J.
Published: August 2005

55 patients with 64 injuries of the hand sustained while playing cricket were reviewed, 46 clinically. Most of the injuries were during fielding. The peripheral digits were most frequently involved and joint injuries predominated. Though the majority of the patients had a satisfactory functional outcome, some admitted to occasional pain and persistence of swelling and/or minor deformity. The most serious injuries were eleven fractures of the base of the middle phalanx with dislocation of the P.I.P. joint.
An isoform shift in the cardiac adenine nucleotide translocase expression alters the kinetic properties of the carrier in dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dörner Andrea , Giessen Stefanie , Gaub Regina , Siestrup Helga Große , Schwimmbeck Peter L. , Hetzer Roland , Poller Wolfgang , Schultheiss Heinz‐Peter
Published: August 2005

Background:

Impaired mitochondrial ADP/ATP transport and altered adenine nucleotide translocase (ANT) isoform expression characterized by enhanced ANT1 and decreased ANT2 expression have been implicated in the pathophysiology of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). It is still unknown whether restricted ANT function results from exogenous factors, or mutations in the ANT genes, or whether the imbalance in the isoform composition causes the reduced ADP/ATP transport. We performed DNA mutation screening of ANT genes and analyzed the kinetic properties of ANT protein isolated from DCM hearts and controls in a reconstituted system excluding natural environmental influences.

Results:

A G1409T polymorphism in ANT2 leads to an exchange from Arg111 to Leu111 in healthy blood donors (n=60) with allele frequencies of 76% and 24%. This polymorphism was neither associated with DCM (74%, 26%; n=93) nor with altered myocardial ANT isoform expression or restricted ANT function (89%, 11%; n=8). However, there was a remarkable reduction in the maximum transport activity (vmax) of reconstituted ANT from DCM hearts with altered ANT isoform expression (498±113 μmol min−1 g−1 incorporated protein vs. 1112±178 μmol min−1 g−1 incorporated protein, p<0.01). Moreover, the substrate affinity of DCM myocardial ANT to ATP was slightly reduced with an increased Km value of 104.3±2.4 μM vs. 90.4±2.9 μM in controls (p<0.03).

Conclusion:

The altered isoform expression in DCM hearts entails changes in the kinetic properties of total ANT protein restricting ANT function and contributing to disturbed energy metabolism in DCM.
Outcome in patients with an ICD incorporating cardiac resynchronisation therapy: Differences between primary and secondary prophylaxis
Authors: Theuns Dominic A.M.J. , Thornton Andrew S. , Klootwijk A. Peter J. , Scholten Marcoen F. , Vantrimpont Pascal J.M.J. , Balk Aggie H.M.M. , Jordaens Luc J.
Published: August 2005

Background:

The incidence of ventricular tachyarrhythmias in ICD patients with cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT‐D) is not well studied.

Aim:

To analyse event free survival in CRT‐D patients with a primary or a secondary prophylactic ICD indication.

Methods:

Prospective, single centre. Eighty‐six patients, 44% with a primary prophylactic indication. Actuarial event‐free rates for mortality and arrhythmias were calculated.

Results:

Baseline clinical characteristics were not significantly different between primary and secondary prophylaxis. Primary prophylaxis patients were more likely to be in NYHA class III. Over 21 months, 724 ventricular events with therapy occurred in 36 patients (42%). The actuarial event‐free rates, at 1 and 3 years, from appropriate ICD therapy were higher (P<0.001) for primary (79.0% and 67.8%) than for secondary prophylaxis (45.6% and 27.0%). Appropriate ICD therapy occurred more in NYHA class II compared to class III (P=0.016). Underlying disease (ischemic versus non‐ischemic) and functional class did not play a role in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:

Important arrhythmic events in patients with heart failure, and CRT‐D occur at a very high rate when the indication is secondary prophylaxis. Patients with primary prophylaxis have an annual event rate of 10%, even though they tend to have a worse heart failure class.
Functional identification of electrogenic Na+‐translocating ATPase in the plasma membrane of the halotolerant microalga Dunaliella maritima
Authors: Popova Larissa G. , Shumkova Galina A. , Andreev Igor M. , Balnokin Yurii V.
Published: August 2005

The hypothesis that the primary Na+‐pump, Na+‐ATPase, functions in the plasma membrane (PM) of halotolerant microalga Dunaliella maritima was tested using membrane preparations from this organism enriched with the PM vesicles. The pH profile of ATP hydrolysis catalyzed by the PM fractions exhibited a broad optimum between pH 6 and 9. Hydrolysis in the alkaline range was specifically stimulated by Na+ ions. Maximal sodium dependent ATP hydrolysis was observed at pH 7.5–8.0. On the assumption that the ATP‐hydrolysis at alkaline pH values is related to a Na+‐ATPase activity, we investigated two ATP‐dependent processes, sodium uptake by the PM vesicles and generation of electric potential difference (Δψ) across the vesicle membrane. PM vesicles from D. maritima were found to be able to accumulate 22Na+ upon ATP addition, with an optimum at pH 7.5–8.0. The ATP‐dependent Na+ accumulation was stimulated by the permeant anion and the protonophore CCCP, and inhibited by orthovanadate. The sodium accumulation was accompanied by pronounced Δψ generation across the vesicle membrane. The data obtained indicate that a primary Na+ pump, an electrogenic Na+‐ATPase of the P‐type, functions in the PM of marine microalga D. maritima.
The disappearing art of instrumental delivery: Time to reverse the trend
Authors: Bailey P.E.
Published: August 2005

Purpose: This paper focuses attention on declining rates of instrumental (vacuum or forceps) delivery. The decline often means that women must travel further to deliver in hospitals with capacity for cesarean delivery. Background: The paper illustrates recent trends in the use of vacuum extraction and forceps in low‐ and high‐income countries. It describes some of the obstacles to the use of instrumental delivery and why the techniques, especially vacuum extraction, should be reintroduced. Over the past two decades, many countries have observed a decline in instrumental delivery rates while cesarean rates have increased. Objections to instrumental delivery are largely due to the potential harm it causes newborns. Some medical schools no longer train their professionals to perform instrumental delivery. Elsewhere, only specialists are permitted to perform the procedures. Methods and Results: As this is a policy paper rather than a research report, the methods and results sections are not applicable. Conclusions: Vacuum extraction can be taught to midlevel practitioners (midwives, nurse practitioners and general physicians), thereby increasing access to emergency obstetric care especially at the periphery. This allows women to give birth closer to home in midlevel facilities when hospitals are not easily accessible or are overcrowded. Where instrumental and cesarean delivery are both available, instrumental delivery could potentially reduce the risks associated with cesarean delivery and reduce the costs of obstetric care.
Fractalkine in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis
Authors: Shimoya K. , Zhang Q. , Temma‐Asano K. , Hayashi S. , Kimura T. , Murata Y.
Published: August 2005

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of fractalkine in the ascites and the association between fractalkine levels in the ascites and endometriosis. Methods: Peritoneal fluids and peripheral blood samples were obtained from patients undergoing laparoscopy for infertility work‐up or laparoscopic cystectomy. Three samples of peritoneum were obtained from patients undergoing hysterectomy. Western blotting, RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed. Results: Fractalkine protein was detected in the ascites. Positive staining was confirmed in peritoneal surface cells and perivascular cells of the peritoneum. CX3CR1 positive cells were present in the cells in the peritoneal fluid. The fractalkine concentrations in the ascites of patients with endometriosis were lower than those without endometriosis. There was no significant difference between serum fractalkine levels in patients with and without endometriosis. Conclusion: The decreased level of fractalkine found in the peritoneal fluid of patients with endometriosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
Oral, vaginal and sublingual misoprostol for induction of labor
Authors: Bartusevicius A. , Barcaite E. , Nadisauskiene R.
Published: August 2005

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of different administration routes of misoprostol for induction of labor.Method: PubMed, Cochrane Library and EMBASE searches were carried out using the keywords oral, vaginal, sublingual, buccal, misoprostol, labor induction, identifying randomized case–controlled trials comparing different routes for giving misoprostol to induce labor, published in English between 1994 and 2004. Results: Seventeen studies (3549 participants) were included. Compared to vaginal administration, oral misoprostol was associated with higher failure rates for achieving vaginal delivery within 24 h (odds ratio (OR) 1.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23–2.10), higher rates of uterine hyperstimulation without fetal heart rate (FHR) changes (OR 2.21, 95% CI 1.12 – 4.34) and lower cesarean section rates (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.56–0.97). A lower dose of oral misoprostol (50 μg) compared to the 25–50 μg administered vaginally was associated with a higher rate of vaginal delivery not being achieved within 24 h (OR 3.60, 95% CI 2.10 – 6.18), more need for oxytocin augmentation (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.65–2.92), less uterine hyperstimulation both without FHR changes (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.42–0.80) and with FHR changes (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.17–0.67) and fewer cesarean sections (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51–0.91). Compared to vaginal administration, buccal misoprostol resulted in a higher rate of failure to achieve vaginal delivery after 24 h, more frequent uterine hyperstimulation and lower rates of cesarean section, but these differences were not significant. When 50 μg of misoprostol used sublingually was compared to oral administration, the sublingual misoprostol was associated with less failure to achieve vaginal delivery after 24 h, less oxytocin augmentation and reduced cesarean section, but none of the differences were statistically significant. Conclusions: Vaginal misoprostol appears more effective than the equivalent dosage administered orally. However, the vaginal route appears to be associated with a higher risk of uterine hyperstimulation. Sublingual misoprostol seems an effective route of administration, but a lack of data necessitates more clinical trials to establish the effectiveness and safety of the buccal/sublingual route.