bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Luminescent Properties of Silver Nanoparticles Passivated by Fullerodendrons
Authors: Hirano Chisato , Imae Toyoko , Tamura Mitsuhiro , Takaguchi Yutaka
Published: May 2005

Spherical silver nanoparticles (diameter: 7–10 nm) were fabricated through passivation by fullerodendrons (C60(Gn-COOK) (n = 0.5, 1.5, 2.5)), which were synthesized from fullerene and anthracenyl focal poly(amido amine) dendrons with carboxylate terminals and different generations (G). The resultant nanocomposites presented unique luminescence, which was contributed by not only anthracenyl moiety but also poly(amido amine) dendron moiety, although the latter has no traditional fluorophore. Furthermore, fluorescence of C60(G2.5-COOK) was quenched by the silver nanoparticles, indicating that the excitation energy transferred to silver particles.
Natural Abundance Solid-state 25Mg MQMAS NMR Studies on Inorganic Solids at a High Magnetic Field of 16.4 T
Authors: Hatakeyama Moriaki , Nemoto Takahiro , Kanehashi Koji , Saito Koji
Published: May 2005

An application of a high magnetic field (16.4 T) with a specialized high power radio frequency (rf)-resistant probe that produces a very short 90° pulse enabled measurement of natural abundance 25Mg multiple quantum magic angle spinning (MQMAS) spectra of complex inorganic materials, such as minerals and steel-making slag with the large quadrupolar coupling constant (CQ) (≈10 MHz).
Development of Pt/ZSM-5 Catalyst with High CO Selectivity for Preferential Oxidation of Carbon Monoxide in a Reformed Gas
Authors: Kotobuki Masashi , Watanabe Akiko , Uchida Hiroyuki , Yamashita Hisao , Watanabe Masahiro
Published: May 2005

Pt/zeolite catalysts have high CO selectivity for preferential oxidation of CO (PROX). To clarify this reason, characterization of Pt/ZSM-5 catalysts with high and low selectivity was performed. It was found that the catalyst with high selectivity consists of small Pt particles supported in ZSM-5 pores, but another one does of large particles locating outside. Chemical and/or physical molecular sieve effects in ZSM-5 must be responsible to the high selectivity. This concept can be applied to other metal/zeolite systems.
Penetration of Hydrophilic Anions into Strongly Acidic Cation-exchange Resin Aided by Bridging Complexation
Authors: Ohnaka Kenji , Yuchi Akio
Published: May 2005

Several anions were found to penetrate into a strongly acidic cation-exchange resin by the aid of complexation with Fe3+ ion to give dimeric species, such as [(–S)2Fe(A)Fe(S–)2] (–S: benzenesulfonate bound to polymer network; A2−: HPO42−, HPO32−), and species having a composition of (–S):Fe:A = 2:1:1 (A−: OH−, H2PO2−).
Preparation of Crystallized and Mesoporous Carbon by Nickel-catalyzed Carbonization of Wood
Authors: Suzuki Kyoko , Suzuki Tsutomu , Takahashi Yukio , Okimoto Mitsuhiro , Yamada Tetsuo , Okazaki Noriyasu , Shimizu Yuichi , Fujiwara Masashi
Published: May 2005

Char composed of crystallized carbon (T component) and enriched with mesopore was obtained by carbonization of nickel-loaded wood at 850 and 900 °C for 1 h in a flow of nitrogen, although the corresponding treatment of wood without nickel gave amorphous and microporous carbon. This also disclosed a close relationship between the production of T component and the formation of mesopore. The crystallized and mesoporous wood carbon that can possess a double function of electroconductivity adequate for electromagnetic shielding and adsorption capacity comparable to that of coal-derived activated carbon is a promising high-quality carbon electrode material.
Combinatorial Fluorescence XAFS Imaging of Manganese Complex Oxides
Authors: Eba Hiromi , Sakurai Kenji
Published: May 2005

This report demonstrates that novel XAFS (X-ray absorption fine structure) microimaging, which does not require any spatial scans of the sample, can be used to evaluate the chemical states of combinatorial array libraries. The method has been applied to manganese–cobalt spinel MnCo2O4 prepared on the same substrate under different synthesis conditions. The valence numbers of Mn have been studied as a map by obtaining X-ray fluorescence images (1000 × 1000 pixels) as a function of the incident energy of synchrotron X-rays. The advantage of this method is that the whole substrate, i.e., all samples in the library, can be observed in a short time, typically ca. 10 min, which is equivalent to the measuring time for a single sample on the substrate when conventional scanning methods are employed.
Relative Change of Viscosity of Water under a Transverse Magnetic Field of 10 T is Smaller than 10−4
Authors: Ishii Kikujiro , Yamamoto Shunsuke , Yamamoto Masatsugu , Nakayama Hideyuki
Published: May 2005

Viscosities of pure water and aqueous NaCl solutions were measured under magnetic field with special cares for the temperature fluctuation and magnetic force acting on the sample. The relative change in viscosity of water at the magnetic field of 10 T was found to be smaller than 10−4. The result is discussed in comparison with the values reported in earlier papers.
Preparation and Physical Properties of Thermoresponsive Biodegradable Poly(asparagine) Derivatives
Authors: Watanabe Eiji , Tomoshige Naoki
Published: May 2005

New biodegradable and thermoresponsive poly(asparagine) derivatives have been developed. They have a LCST and showed a sol–gel–sol phase transition. The LCST and a sol–gel–sol phase transition temperature could be controlled by the composition ratio of hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups of the polymer side chain.
Regioselective Glycosylations of 4,6-O-Benzylidene Glucopyranosides with Glycosyl Trichloroacetimidates
Authors: Zhou Feng-Yan , Huang Jian-Ying , Yuan Qing , Wang Yan-Guang
Published: May 2005

An efficient method for synthesis of the (1 → 3)-linked disaccharides is reported. Glycosylations of 4,6-O-benzylidene glucopyranosides with glycosyl trichloroacetimidates regioselectively afforded (1 → 3)-linked disaccharides in good yields using trimethylsilyl triflate (TMSOTf)/4 Å MS as catalyst.
Management of hearing loss in Apert syndrome
Authors: Rajenderkumar D , Bamiou D , Sirimanna T
Published: May 2005

Background: Apert syndrome is one of the craniosynostosis syndromes, with abirth prevalence estimated to be between 9.9 and 15.5/million, and accounts for 4.5 per cent ofcraniosynostoses. Although conductive hearing loss is common in Apert syndrome there are contradicting reports regarding the cause of this hearing loss. There is also no detailed informationavailable on the management of hearing loss in Apert syndrome.

Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of case notes of Apert syndrome patients seen between 1970 and 2003 at Great Ormond Street Children’s
Hospital, London, was undertaken.

Results: Seventy case notes were obtained. The incidence of congenital hearing impairment was between 3 and 6 per cent. Almost all patients had otitis media with effusion (glue ear), which tended to persist into adult life. More than 56 per cent of cases developed permanent conductive hearing loss by 10–20 years. Repeated grommet insertion was common; even though 35 per cent had trouble with ear discharge and persistent conductive hearing loss. Statistically, grommets made no difference to the risk of developing permanent hearing loss.

Conclusion:This study, of the largest number of Apert syndrome cases assembled to date, showed that early optimization of hearing with possible hearing aids needs to be considered. Repeated grommet insertion does not help in optimizing hearing, especially if ear discharge complicates the picture.
Operative training in otolaryngology in the United Kingdom: A specialist registrar survey
Authors: Georgalas Christos , Hadjihannas Edward , Ghufoor Khalid , Pracy Paul , Papesch Michael
Published: May 2005

Objective: To assess the current status of operative training for otolaryngology specialist registrars in the United Kingdom.

Design: Web-based questionnaire survey.

Participants: All otolaryngology specialist registrars in the United Kingdom.

Main outcome measures: The overall satisfaction with operative training was assessed as wellas the number of operations performed and level of competency in stage-specific procedures, as defined by the Joint Committee for Higher Specialist Training.

Results: Otolaryngology specialist registrars are generally satisfied with the quality of their operative training. The most important predictive factor of satisfaction with operative training was the number of theatre sessions per week. The vast majority of registrars (92 per centby the end of year one, 73 per cent at the end of years two to four) appear to attain all the stage-appropriate surgical competencies during the first four years. However, with respect to the last two years of registrar training, only 26 per cent can perform all the designated (complex) procedures. There are no significant differences between deaneries or geographic regions
in the overall satisfaction rates, number of operative sessions, number of operations performedor operative competencies attained.

Conclusion: It appears that the Specialist Advisory Committee (SAC) is generally successful in maintaining common operative training standards and providing a homogenous training environment. During the first four years registrars attain an appropriate level of general training while the last two years are mainly devoted to subspecialty interests.
Bilateral nasolabial cysts associated with recurrent dacryocystitis
Authors: Kyrmizakis Dionysios E , Lachanas Vassilios A , Benakis Antonios A , Velegrakis George A , Aslanides Ioannis M
Published: May 2005

Objective: Nasolabial cysts are rare, nonodontogenic, soft-tissue, developmental cysts occurring inferior to the nasal alar region. They are thought to arise from remnants of the nasolacrimal ducts and they are frequently asymptomatic. We report a rare case of bilateral nasolabial cysts accompanied by bilateral chronic dacryocystitis.

Case report: A 48-year-old woman suffering from bilateral chronic dacryocystitis was referred to our department for endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy. She had undergone external dacryocystorhinostomy on the left side a few years earlier. Physical examination and computed tomography scan revealed nasolabial cysts bilaterally inferior to the nasal alar region. The cysts were removed via a sublabial approach and endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy was performed on the right side. Ten months after surgery, the patient was asymptomatic.

Conclusion: There may be a correlation, due to embryological reasons, between the presence of nasolabial cysts and the presence of chronic dacryocystitis. Both can be corrected surgically, under the same anaesthesia, without visible scar formation.
Is it necessary to differentiate tinnitus from auditory hallucination in schizophrenic patients?
Authors: Nam Eui-Cheol
Published: May 2005

Although the definitions of subjective tinnitus and auditory hallucination are very similar, the origins and underlying causes of each symptom clearly differ. This study examined whether the differentiation of tinnitus from auditory hallucination is necessary for the proper management of these symptoms in schizophrenic patients. We investigated the characteristics of auditory hallucinations in 15 schizophrenic patients, and measured their pure-tone hearing levels and auditory brainstem responses (ABR). The average hearing level was 20.6 ± 16.2 dB, with a mild decrease at high frequencies. We classified the patients into three groups: pure hallucination, tinnitus, and hallucination plus tinnitus. Eight patients (53.3 per cent) complained of pure-hallucination and only one of them had a mild hearing loss. Hearing deficits were observed in six of seven tinnitus patients. Abnormal findings of ABR were found only in the pure-hallucination group. The results suggest that tinnitus should be differentiated fromauditory hallucination in the evaluation of schizophrenic patients.
Bilateral tension pneumothorax following rigid bronchoscopy: A report of an epignathus in a newborn delivered by the EXIT procedure with a fatal outcome
Authors: Harar R P S , Pratap R , Chadha N , Tolley N
Published: May 2005

We describe a case of a newborn baby with a prenatal diagnosis of an epignathus (oropharyngeal teratoma). With the potential for airway problems at birth, he was delivered by an elective EXIT (Extra Utero Intrapartum Treatment) procedure at 38 weeks of pregnancy. The airway was secured and rigid bronchoscopy performed. Initially he was stable, but developed cardiorespiratory difficulties 40 minutes after birth and died from a cardiac arrest 17 minuteslater. Tension pneumothorax is a devastating complication that can occur with lower airway manipulation for anaesthesia and rigid bronchoscopy. The addition of positive pressure during mechanical ventilation converts the pneumothorax into a tension pneumothorax. The possibility of tension pneumothorax should be entertained in a mechanically ventilated patient whose ventilatory pressures are increasing, with diminishing cardiac output. A complicated case is presented, where the diagnosis was missed with a fatal outcome.
Long-term effects of the Meniett device in Ménière’s disease: the Western Australian experience
Authors: Rajan Gunesh P , Din Sobani , Atlas Marcus D
Published: May 2005

Objectives: Transtympanic pressure has been shown to influence endolymphatic hydrops. As endolymphatic hydrops plays a key role in Ménière’s disease, a few studies, undertaken by the inventors, manufacturers and associates of the Meniett device,have demonstrated positive short-term effects of transtympanic pressure treatment via the Meniett device in medically intractable Ménière’s disease. The aim of our study was to independently investigate the long-term efficacy and safety of transtympanic pressure treatment in the management of recalcitrant vertigo in Ménière’s disease.

Design: Cross-sectional case study.

Setting: Tertiary referral centre.

Participants: Eighteen patients with Ménière’s disease, suffering from medically intractable symptoms. All patients in the study had Ménière’s
disease according to the criteria of the Committee on Hearing and Equilibrium of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery.

Main outcome measurements: Outcome and severity of symptoms were assessed, using the six-point functional scale and the vertigo visual analogue scale (VAS), as recommended by the Committee on Hearing and Equilibrium of the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery. Changes of pure tone average thresholds and vestibular calorics before and during treatment with the Meniett device were recorded. The mean follow-up time was 18 months.

Results: Twelve out of 18 patients showed significant improvement in the functional score and in the VAS. Five patients displayed an audiometric improvement, out of which three patients showed a pertaining significant hearing gain of more than 10 dB; the remainder had stable hearing levels. Of six patients without any improvement, four had previous invasive surgery for theirMénière’s disease and two had previous vestibular ablation with gentamicin.No changes in vestibular function were noted. There were no complications duringthe treatment
with the Meniett device.

Conclusion: According to this independent study, the Meniett device seems to be a minimally invasive, non-destructive treatment tool, which can reduce vertigo and associated functional handicap in Ménière’s disease. These effects are maintained up to 18 months after treatment so far. Previous surgical or chemical vestibular ablation procedures may adversely influence the effect of the Meniett device.
Indium111 pentetreotide single photon emission computed tomography (In111 pentetreotide SPECT): a new technique to evaluate somatostatin receptors in chordomas
Authors: Di Girolamo Stefano , Ottaviani Fabrizio , Floris Roberto , Bruno Ernesto , Napolitano Bianca , Schillaci Orazio
Published: May 2005

Chordomas are rare neoplasms originating along the neuraxis. Although they do not usually show cytological atypia, metastases have been reported in 30 per cent of cases. Survival rates in cases of skull base locations are low, and local recurrence is common after local excision. Radiation therapy is used in post-operative treatment and proton radiation therapy as the primary treatment. In the present paper we present the case of a 50-year-old Caucasian man affected by chordoma of the clivus, with liver and chest metastases, relapsed after several surgical local excisions, to discuss improvements in therapeutic and imaging techniques. Indium111 (In111) pentetreotide single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) was employed to assess the presence of somatostatin receptors and to treat the tumour with radiolabelled Y90-DOTA-lanreotide. Imaging, performed 2 months afterwards, showedstable disease in the lungs but a local progression in the metastases, in comparison with pre-treatment uptake. These data suggest the usefulness of radiolabelled somatostatin analogues in the diagnosis and therapy of chordomas.
Reducing the risk of dislocation after total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Biedermann R. , Tonin A. , Krismer M. , Rachbauer F. , Eibl G. , Stöckl B.
Published: May 2005

Malposition of the acetabular component is a risk factor for post-operative dislocation after total hip replacement (THR). We have investigated the influence of the orientation of the acetabular component on the probability of dislocation. Radiological anteversion and abduction of the component of 127 hips which dislocated post-operatively were measured by Einzel-Bild-Röentgen-Analysis and compared with those in a control group of 342 patients.

In the control group, the mean value of anteversion was 15° and of abduction 44°. Patients with anterior dislocation after primary THR showed significant differences in the mean angle of anteversion (17°), and abduction (48°) as did patients with posterior dislocation (anteversion 11°, abduction 42°). After revision patients with posterior dislocation showed significant differences in anteversion (12°) and abduction (40°).

Our results demonstrate the importance of accurate positioning of the acetabular component in order to reduce the frequency of subsequent dislocations. Radiological anteversion of 15° and abduction of 45° are the lowest at-risk values for dislocation.
Varus-valgus balance and range of movement after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Matsuda Y. , Ishii Y. , Noguchi H. , Ishii R.
Published: May 2005

We performed a randomised, prospective study of 80 mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasties (80 knees) in order to measure the effects of varus-valgus laxity and balance on the range of movement (ROM) one year after operation. Forty knees had a posterior-cruciate-ligament (PCL)-retaining prosthesis and the other 40 a PCL-sacrificing prosthesis. In the balanced group (69 knees) in which the difference between varus and valgus was less than 2°, the mean ROM improved significantly from 107.6° to 117.7° (p < 0.0001). By contrast, in the 11 knees which were unbalanced and in which the difference between varus and valgus laxity exceeded 2°, the ROM decreased from a mean of 121.0° to 112.7° (p = 0.0061). We conclude that coronal laxity, especially balanced laxity, is important for achieving an improved ROM in mobile-bearing total knee arthroplasty.
Incomplete triple pelvic osteotomy for the surgical treatment of dysplasia of the hip in adolescents and adults
Authors: Eren A. , Ömeroglu H. , Güven M. , Ugutmen E. , Altintas F.
Published: May 2005

We treated 26 hips (24 consecutive patients) with residual dysplasia by a technique of incomplete triple pelvic osteotomy. The mean age of the patients was 21.6 years.

The mean values for the pre-operative centre-edge angle of Wiberg, the refined centre-edge angle, the acetabular angle of Sharp, the modified acetabular angle and femoral head lateralisation were 7.7°, −3.1°, 49.3°, 53.2° and 17.2 mm, respectively. After a mean follow-up of 3.3 years they were 27.0°, 13.0°, 38.9°, 44.3° and 15.9 mm, respectively (p < 0.05). The osteoarthritic grading changed adversely in one hip. The mean pre-operative and latest Harris hip scores were 74.9 and 93.0, respectively (p < 0.05).

This technique provides a stable osteotomy with maintenance of the posterior column which allows early mobilisation and minimal internal fixation. The technique is not complex and requires minimal blood transfusion. The use of an image intensifier is not necessary and harvesting of a subcristal bone graft avoids post-operative complications at the donor site.
Extensor mechanism reconstruction after proximal tibial replacement
Authors: Oddy M. J. , Pendegrass C. J. , Goodship A. E. , Cannon S. R. , Briggs T. W. R. , Blunn G. W.
Published: May 2005

We developed an in vivo model of the attachment of a patellar tendon to a metal implant to simulate the reconstruction of an extensor mechanism after replacement of the proximal tibia. In 24 ewes, the patellar tendon was attached to a hydroxyapatite (HA)-coated titanium prosthesis. In 12, the interface was augmented with autograft containing cancellous bone and marrow. In the remaining ewes, the interface was not grafted.

Kinematic gait analysis showed nearly normal function of the joint by 12 weeks. Force-plate assessment showed a significant increase in functional weight-bearing in the grafted animals (p = 0.043). The tendon-implant interface showed that without graft, encapsulation of fibrous tissue occurred. With autograft, a developing tendon-bone-HA-implant interface was observed at six weeks and by 12 weeks a layered tendon-fibrocartilage-bone interface was seen which was similar to a direct-type enthesis.

With stable mechanical fixation, an appropriate bioactive surface and biological augmentation the development of a functional tendon-implant interface can be achieved.
The use of cementless expansion acetabular component and an alumina-polyethylene bearing in total hip arthroplasty for osteonecrosis
Authors: Kim Y.-G. , Kim S.-Y. , Kim S.-J. , Park B.-C. , Kim P.-T. , Ihn J.-C.
Published: May 2005

We performed 114 consecutive primary total hip arthroplasties with a cementless expansion acetabular component in 101 patients for advanced osteonecrosis of the femoral head. The mean age of the patients at surgery was 51 years (36 to 62) and the mean length of follow-up was 110 months (84 to 129).

The mean pre-operative Harris hip score of 47 points improved to 93 points at final follow-up. The polyethylene liner was exchanged in two hips during this period and one broken acetabular component was revised. The mean linear wear rate of polyethylene was 0.07 mm/year and peri-acetabular osteolysis was seen in two hips (1.9%). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that the survival of the acetabular component without revision was 97.8% (95% confidence interval 0.956 to 1.000) at ten years.

Our study has shown that the results of THA with a cementless expansion acetabular component and an alumina-polyethylene bearing surface are good.
Treatment of deep infection of the hip associated with massive bone loss
Authors: Hsieh P.-H. , Shih C.-H. , Chang Y.-H. , Lee M. S. , Yang W.-E. , Shih H.-N.
Published: May 2005

We have carried out in 24 patients, a two-stage revision arthroplasty of the hip for infection with massive bone loss. We used a custom-made, antibiotic-loaded cement prosthesis as an interim spacer. Fifteen patients had acetabular deficiencies, eight had segmental femoral bone loss and one had a combined defect.

There was no recurrence of infection at a mean follow-up of 4.2 years (2 to 7). A total of 21 patients remained mobile in the interim period. The mean Merle D’Aubigné and Postel hip score improved from 7.3 points before operation to 13.2 between stages and to 15.8 at the final follow-up. The allograft appeared to have incorporated into the host bone in all patients. Complications included two fractures and one dislocation of the cement prosthesis.

The use of a temporary spacer maintains the function of the joint between stages even when there is extensive loss of bone. Allograft used in revision surgery after septic conditions restores bone stock without the risk of recurrent infection.
Transfer of pectoralis major in arthrogryposis to restore elbow flexion
Authors: Lahoti O. , Bell M. J.
Published: May 2005

We present the long-term results of pectoralis major transfer to restore elbow flexion in seven patients (ten procedures). The early results in all the patients were encouraging but with longer follow-up a gradual and progressive flexion deformity was observed with a decrease in the arc of flexion in eight elbows, reaching ≥ 90° in all cases.

The results of pectoralis major transfer deteriorate with time due to the development of a recalcitrant flexion deformity of the elbow. With bilateral involvement we now recommend that the procedure be undertaken on one side only to allow the hand to reach the mouth for feeding, while the opposite side remains in extension for perineal toilet.
Indirect reduction and percutaneous fixation versus open reduction and internal fixation for displaced intra-articular fractures of the distal radius
Authors: Kreder H. J. , Hanel D. P. , Agel J. , McKee M. , Schemitsch E. H. , Trumble T. E. , Stephen D.
Published: May 2005

A total of 179 adult patients with displaced intra-articular fractures of the distal radius was randomised to receive indirect percutaneous reduction and external fixation (n = 88) or open reduction and internal fixation (n = 91). Patients were followed up for two years. During the first year the upper limb musculoskeletal function assessment score, the SF-36 bodily pain sub-scale score, the overall Jebsen score, pinch strength and grip strength improved significantly in all patients. There was no statistically significant difference in the radiological restoration of anatomical features or the range of movement between the groups.

During the period of two years, patients who underwent indirect reduction and percutaneous fixation had a more rapid return of function and a better functional outcome than those who underwent open reduction and internal fixation, provided that the intra-articular step and gap deformity were minimised.
Unstable extra-articular fractures of the distal radius
Authors: Azzopardi T. , Ehrendorfer S. , Coulton T. , Abela M.
Published: May 2005

We performed a prospective, randomised study on 57 patients older than 60 years of age with unstable, extra-articular fractures of the distal radius to compare the outcome of immobilisation in a cast alone with that using supplementary, percutaneous pinning.

Patients treated by percutaneous wires had a statistically significant improvement in dorsal angulation (mean 7°), radial length (mean 3 mm) and radial inclination (mean 3 mm) at one year. However, there was no significant difference in functional outcome in terms of pain, range of movement, grip strength, activities of daily living and the SF-36 score except for an improved range of movement in ulnar deviation in the percutaneous wire group. One patient developed a pin-track infection which required removal of the wires at two weeks.

We conclude that percutaneous pinning of unstable, extra-articular fractures of the distal radius provides only a marginal improvement in the radiological parameters compared with immobilisation in a cast alone. This does not correlate with an improved functional outcome in a low-demand, elderly population.
Accuracy of diagnostic imaging techniques in the diagnosis of aseptic loosening of the femoral component of a hip prosthesis
Authors: Temmerman O. P. P. , Raijmakers P. G. H. M. , Berkhof J. , Hoekstra O. S. , Teule G. J. J. , Heyligers I. C.
Published: May 2005

In this meta-analysis we included 32 English-language articles published between January 1975 and June 2004 on the diagnostic performance of plain radiography, subtraction arthrography, nuclear arthrography and bone scintigraphy in detecting aseptic loosening of the femoral component, using criteria based on the Cochrane systematic review of screening and diagnostic tests.

The mean sensitivity and specificity were, respectively, 82% (95% confidence interval (CI) 76 to 87) and 81% (95% CI 73 to 87) for plain radiography and 85% (95% CI 75 to 91) and 83% (95% CI 75 to 89) for nuclear arthrography. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were, respectively, 86% (95% CI 74 to 93) and 85% (95% CI 77 to 91) for subtraction arthrography and 85% (95% CI 79 to 89) and 72% (95% CI 64 to 79) for bone scintigraphy. Although the diagnostic performance of the imaging techniques was not significantly different, plain radiography and bone scintigraphy are preferred for the assessment of a femoral component because of their efficacy and lower risk of patient morbidity.
The effect of suture materials and techniques on the outcome of repair of the rotator cuff
Authors: Boehm T. D. , Werner A. , Radtke S. , Mueller T. , Kirschner S. , Gohlke F.
Published: May 2005

In a prospective, randomised study on the repair of tears of the rotator cuff we compared the clinical results of two suture techniques for which different suture materials were used.

We prospectively randomised 100 patients with tears of the rotator cuff into two groups. Group 1 had transosseous repair with No. 3 Ethibond using modified Mason-Allen sutures and group 2 had transosseous repair with 1.0 mm polydioxanone cord using modified Kessler sutures. After 24 to 30 months the patients were evaluated clinically using the Constant score and by ultrasonography.

Of the 100 patients, 92 completed the study. No significant statistical difference was seen between the two groups: Constant score, 91% vs 92%; rate of further tear, 18% vs 22%; and revision, 4% vs 4%. In cases of further tear the outcome in group 2 did not differ from that for the intact repairs (91% vs 91%), but in group 1 it was significantly worse (94% vs 77%, p = 0.005).

Overall, seven patients had complications which required revision surgery, in four for pain (two in each group) and in three for infection (two in group 1 and one in group 2).
Displaced fracture of the distal radius in children
Authors: Zamzam M. M. , Khoshhal K. I.
Published: May 2005

We retrospectively reviewed 183 children with a simple fracture of the distal radius, with or without fracture of the ulna, treated by closed reduction and cast immobilisation. The fracture redisplaced after an initial, acceptable closed reduction in 46 (25%). Complete initial displacement was identified as the most important factor leading to redisplacement. Other contributing factors were the presence of an ipsilateral distal ulnar fracture, and the reduction of completely displaced fractures under deep sedation or local haematoma block. We recommend that completely displaced fractures of the distal radius in children should be reduced under general anaesthesia, and fixed by primary percutaneous Kirschner wires even when a satisfactory closed reduction has been achieved.
The significance of surface changes on retrieved femoral components after total knee replacement
Authors: Lakdawala A. , Todo S. , Scott G.
Published: May 2005

We investigated the changes in surface roughness of retrieved femoral components in 18 men and four women at revision knee surgery. The mean age at revision was 68.4 years and the mean period of implantation was for 55.6 months. Eighteen implants were retrieved for aseptic loosening and four for infection. The surface changes in the articulating areas were inspected visually and the roughness (Ra) analysed with a profilometer. Parallel scratching and burnishing were the two main forms of damage. The mean Ra measurements in the articulating areas showed no statistically significant difference when compared with those in a control area on either side of the patellar groove at the apex of the femoral flange. This suggests that it is not essential to revise a well-fixed and correctly aligned femoral component where the polished surface has become burnished or bears fine parallel scratches, if the revision is conducted solely for failure of the tibial component.
The risk of anterior cruciate ligament rupture with generalised joint laxity
Authors: Ramesh R. , Von Arx O. , Azzopardi T. , Schranz P. J.
Published: May 2005

We assessed hyperextension of the knee and joint laxity in 169 consecutive patients who underwent an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction between 2000 and 2002 and correlated this with a selected number of age- and gender-matched controls. In addition, the mechanism of injury in the majority of patients was documented. Joint laxity was present in 42.6% (72 of 169) of the patients and hyperextension of the knee in 78.7% (133 of 169). All patients with joint laxity had hyperextension of their knee. In the control group only 21.5% (14 of 65) had joint laxity and 37% (24 of 65) had hyperextension of the knee. Statistical analysis showed a significant correlation for these associations. We conclude that anterior cruciate ligament injury is more common in those with joint laxity and particularly so for those with hyperextension of the knee.
One-stage exchange shoulder arthroplasty for peri-prosthetic infection
Authors: Ince A. , Seemann K. , Frommelt L. , Katzer A. , Loehr J. F.
Published: May 2005

There are few reports in the literature of the diagnosis and treatment of the infected shoulder arthroplasty. Most deal with resection arthroplasty and two-stage exchange surgery. We present our results of one-stage exchange operation as treatment for the infected shoulder arthroplasty.

Our group comprised 16 patients (ten men, six women) with 16 infected arthroplasties. By the time of follow-up, two patients had died (mean 5.8 years), two could not be located and three had already undergone revision surgery. Nine patients were thus available for clinical examination and assessment.

The infections were largely caused by staphylococci, Propionibacterium species and streptococci. Two were early infections (within three months of surgery) and 14 were late infections. The mean follow-up was 5.8 years (13 months to 13.25 years) when the mean Constant-Murley score was 33.6 points and the mean University College of Los Angeles score 18.3 points.

Further revision was performed in three patients. One sustained a peri-prosthetic humeral fracture, another developed an acromial pseudarthrosis after transacromial surgery and the third suffered recurrent dislocations. No patient had a recurrence of infection.

A one-stage exchange procedure using antibiotic-loaded bone cement eradicated infection in all our patients and we suggest that such a procedure is at least as successful as either a resection arthroplasty or a two-stage exchange in the management of the infected shoulder arthroplasty.
En-bloc resection, extracorporeal irradiation, and re-implantation in limb salvage for bony malignancies
Authors: Davidson A. W. , Hong A. , McCarthy S. W. , Stalley P. D.
Published: May 2005

We treated 50 patients with bony malignancy by en-bloc resection, extracorporeal irradiation with 50 Gy and re-implantation of the bone segment.

The mean survivor follow-up was 38 months (12 to 92) when 42 patients were alive and without disease. There were four recurrences. The functional results were good according to the Mankin score (17 excellent, 13 good, nine fair, three failures), the Musculoskeletal Tumour Society score (mean 77) and the Toronto Extremity Salvage score (mean 81). There was solid union, but bone resorption was seen in some cases. The dose of radiation was lethal to all cells and produced a dead autograft of perfect fit.

Extracorporeal irradiation is a useful technique for limb salvage when there is reasonable residual bone stock. It allows effective re-attachment of tendons and produces a lasting biological reconstruction. There should be no risk of local recurrence or of radiotherapy-induced malignancy in the replanted bone.
Fragility fractures of the ankle
Authors: Lemon M. , Somayaji H. S. , Khaleel A. , Elliott D. S.
Published: May 2005

Fragility fractures of the ankle occur mainly in elderly osteoporotic women. They are inherently unstable and difficult to manage. There is a high incidence of complications with both non-operative and operative treatment.

We treated 12 such fractures by closed reduction and stabilisation using a retrograde calcaneotalotibial expandable nail. The mean age of patients was 84 years (75 to 95). All were women and were able to walk fully weight-bearing after surgery. There were no wound complications. One patient died from a myocardial infarction 24 days after surgery. The 11 other patients were followed up for a mean of 67 weeks (39 to 104).

All the fractures maintained satisfactory alignment and healed without delay. Six patients refused removal of the nail after union of the fracture. The functional rating using the scale of Olerud and Molander gave a mean score at follow-up of 61, compared with a pre-injury value of 70.
Injecting Law into Politics and Politics into Law: Legislative and Judicial Perspectives on Constitutional Human Rights
Authors: Feldman David
Published: May 2005

Law, unlike political theory, is capable of providing minimum standards for objective assessments of the rightness and wrongness of political actions. Constitutional rights can affect the rule-making process in Parliament by influencing legislators and the executive, as well as judges, with specific ideas of right and wrong. The Parliamentary Joint Select Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) has provided a means of injecting such ideas into the legislative process, allowing Parliament to address human rights issues and forcing the executive to do so. The article analyses the ways in which human rights law has been allowed to affect law-making. It then considers whether the need for judges to enforce human rights has led judges to undertake activities that are more political than previously. To this end the article examines the techniques of self-discipline developed to ensure that the judiciary stays within its constitutional authority, illustrates how the proper relationship between judges, Parliament and the executive depends on context, and explores the effect of these developments on possible criteria for judicial legitimacy, including accountability and representativeness. It concludes that the interplay of human rights law and political judgment has had a positive impact, helping to open up and structure legislation and policy-making.
Property Damage and Economic Loss: Should Claims by Property Owners Themselves Be Limited?
Authors: Tettenborn Andrew
Published: May 2005

This article takes a fresh look at the ‘economic loss rule’ in torts concerning damage or destruction of property: that is, the rule that while the owner of the damaged property can claim for all consequential losses subject only to remoteness limitations, claims by others for losses they suffer as a result of the damage are severely limited. The problems of anomaly and arbitrariness caused by the rule are well documented. The argument put forward here, however, is that these problems arise not so much because the non-owner has too few rights, but rather because the owner has too many. My conclusion is that the unquestioned right of the owner to claim for consequential losses needs to be substantially constricted, and that all claims for consequential loss resulting from property damage should be subject to the same searching ‘duty of care’ analysis, whatever the status of the claimant may be.
Legislating for the Application of Customary Law in Solomon Islands
Authors: Care Jennifer Corrin , Zorn Jean G.
Published: May 2005

This article examines the problems surrounding the application of customary law in the formal courts of Solomon Islands. Commencing with a brief explanation of the status of customary law, it considers the vexed question of proof, in the context of decided cases. It also analyses three Solomon Islands Acts relevant to proving customary law: the Wills, Probate and Administration Act 1987, the Solomon Islands National Provident Fund Act 1973 and the Customs Recognition Act 2000. The article then considers the future of customary law in the formal courts of Solomon Islands.
Takeovers in China: The Case against Uniformity in Corporate Governance
Authors: Yu Guanghua
Published: May 2005

Corporate governance has attracted enormous attention both in the area of law and in the area of financial economics. In comparative corporate governance studies, many people have devoted their energy to finding a best corporate governance model. I argue that a functional analysis does not support the view that there is a single best model in the world. I further use the transplantation of an English-style takeover law into China to explain that the importation of foreign law is not always based on careful analysis of whether the imported foreign law is the best in the world. Furthermore, I discuss the subsequent adjustment of the transplanted English takeover law to the takeover market in China to show that the transplantation of foreign law is subject to local political and economic conditions. If there is no best corporate governance model and the transplantation of foreign law into other countries with different social and political background does not achieve similar objectives, the search for a best corporate governance model is misguided.
Characterization of MBa2Cu3O7-x Thin Films by Raman Microspectroscopy
Authors: Venkataraman Kartik , Baurceanu Roxanne , Maroni Victor A.
Published: May 2005

Thin film embodiments of MBa2Cu3O7- x (MBCO, M = yttrium or a rare-earth metal) prepared by several different deposition methods on a variety of substrates were investigated by Raman microspectroscopy. Several of the unique characterization capabilities of Raman spectroscopy in the analysis of MBCO thin films are highlighted by the results of these investigations. The Raman active phonons of the orthorhombic and tetragonal forms of MBCO that are most useful for characterization of textured MBCO films are diagrammed and discussed. A rapid procedure for qualitative texture mapping of MBCO thin films using Raman microscopy techniques is presented, and a new approach for investigating phase separation at the sub-micrometer level in MBCO thin films based on curve resolution of the MBCO Cu2 phonon is described. The assignment of a particular feature often observed in Raman spectra of MBCO films to cation disorder is reinforced by results of a cation substitution study. The depth of penetration of the laser into MBCO films and the type of information that can be obtained by varying the extent of defocusing of the laser are also discussed.
Enhancement of Infrared Spectral Images for Maximizing Chemical Information by Minimizing Baseline Interferences
Authors: Bu Dongsheng , Huffman Scott W. , Seelenbinder John A. , Brown Chris W.
Published: May 2005

The popularity of spectral images in many areas of analysis has greatly increased during the last decade due to the development of charge-coupled device (CCD) and infrared sensitive cameras. Large amounts of spatial information can be obtained in short periods of time. The general goal in analytical chemistry is to convert spectral images into chemical images, which show the spatial locations of various chemical components. Self-modeling multivariate curve resolution methods can be used to extract pure component spectra from the mixture spectra in images and produce chemical images. However, there is a difficulty in processing infrared spectral images due to large pixel-to-pixel baseline variations. Herein, a method for minimizing baseline interferences using fast Fourier transform (FFT) filtering in both the spectral and spatial domains is discussed. The methodology is demonstrated on a microscopic sample of butter contaminated with non-pathogenic E. coli and on a cross-sectional sample of rabbit aorta containing plaque. The processing to reduce baseline effects improved the spatial resolution without compromising the spectral resolution.
Mechanism of Thermal Phase Transition of a Ferroelectric Liquid Crystal with Monotropic Transition Temperature Studied by Infrared Spectroscopy Combined with Principal Component Analysis and Sample—Sample Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhao Jinggang , Tatani Kenji , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: May 2005

Infrared (IR) spectra of FLC-154 (FLC: ferroelectric liquid crystal) with monotropic phase transition under a nonalignment state with a sample layer thickness of 24.5 μm were measured for heating process from 55 to 90 °C and a cooling process from 90 to 55 °C in increments of 1 °C. The thermal dynamics of FLC-154 were investigated by use of IR spectroscopy combined with principal component analysis (PCA) and sample–sample two-dimensional (2D) correlation spectroscopy. During the cooling, the FLC-154 molecule passes through the monotropic smectic- C* (Sm- C*) phase, which is transformed from the Sm- A phase. The results from PCA suggest that during the heating process, the thermal dynamics of the alkyl chains, core moiety, and C=O groups are similar to each other. Furthermore, PCA and sample–sample 2D correlation spectroscopy indicate that the alkyl chains and C=O groups in the chiral and core moieties are responsible for the emergence of the Sm- C* phase. This conclusion is very important because the IR data have given more evident cause for the emergence of the Sm- C* phase than the theoretical models such as the molecular-statistical theory of ferroelectric ordering and the indigenous polarization theory. Moreover, it has been found that some of the trans conformations of the alkyl chains of FLC-154 change partly to the gauche conformation when the phase transition from the crystalline phase to the Sm- A phase occurs. It has also been found that the intermolecular interactions of the C=O group in the core moiety in the Sm- A phase are weaker than those in the crystalline phase and that the conformational change occurs on the C–O–C bonds in the core moiety upon going from the crystalline to the Sm- A phase.
Prediction of Ethylene Content in Melt-State Random and Block Polypropylene by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics: Influence of a Change in Sample Temperature and its Compensation Method
Authors: Watari Masahiro , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: May 2005

This paper reports on the influence of a change in sample temperature, and a method for its compensation, for the prediction of ethylene (C2) content in melt-state random polypropylene (RPP) and block polypropylene (BPP) by near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and chemometrics. Near-infrared (NIR) spectra of RPP in the melt and solid states were measured by a Fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) on-line monitoring system and an FT-NIR laboratory system. There are some significant differences between the solid- and melt-state RPP spectra. Moreover, we investigated the predicted values of the C2 content from the RPP or BPP spectra measured at 190 °C and 250 °C using the calibration model for the C2 content developed using the RPP or BPP spectra measured at 230 °C. The errors in the predicted values of the C2 content depend on the pretreatment methods for each calibration model. It was found that multiplicative signal correction (MSC) is very effective in compensating for the influence of the change of temperature for the RPP or BPP samples on the predicted C2 content. From the suggestion of principal component analysis (PCA) and difference spectrum analysis, we propose a new compensation method for the temperature change that uses the difference spectra between two spectra sets measured at different temperatures. We achieved good results using the difference spectra between the RPP/BPP spectra sets measured at 190 °C and 250 °C after correction and the calibration model developed with the spectra measured at 230 °C. The comparison between the method using MSC and the proposed method showed that the predicted error in the latter is slightly better than those in the former.