bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiographic and clinical assessments of destructive periodontal disease
Authors: Papapanou Panos N. , Wennström Jan L.
Published: December 2005

Abstract. 191 subjects, aged 35–80 years, were examined for periodontal disease using radiographic and clinical means. At all approximal tooth surfaces, assessments were made of (i) the distance on radiographs between the cementoenamel junction and the most coronal level of the alveolar bone, and (ii) probing attachment loss. The results revealed that (i) a strong correlation existed between the radiographic and the clinical assessments (r=0.80, p=0.0001). (ii) the difference between the 2 types of assessments was within 2 mm in 92% of the tooth sites examined, (iii) the degree of agreement between the 2 methods was similar, irrespective of tooth type and tooth surface, but (iv) the agreement was poor at sites with severe periodontal tissue breakdown.
Cell and fiber responses to cementum from periodontitis‐affected root surfaces after citric acid treatment*
Authors: Polson A. M. , Hanes P. J.
Published: December 2005

Abstract The purpose of this study was to assess connective tissue and epithelial responses to periodontitis‐affected cementum (from exposed roots of human teeth) after surface demineralization with citric acid. Cementum specimens were obtained from root surfaces covered by calculus. Each rectangular specimen had a face of cementum and an opposite surface composed of pulpal dentin. One half of the specimens were treated with citric acid (experimental group), while the remainder served as untreated control specimens. Specimens were implanted vertically into incisional wounds on the dorsal surface of rats with one end of the implant protruding through the skin. 4 specimens in each group were available for examination 1, 3, 5, and 10 days after implantation. Histologic and histometric analyses of the implants included counts of adhering cells, evaluation of attached connective tissue fiber density and diameter, and assessment of epithelial migration. At 1 day, a distinct zone of surface demineralization was not present on the surface of the cementum in the experimental group, although such a zone was present on the dentin surfaces of the same specimens. Histometric comparisons between experimental and control groups at 1 day showed no differences in cell attachment or length of cementum surface within connective tissue. By 10 days, there was a trend for greater cell attachment to demineralized cementum, but the differences were not statistically significant. Although connective tissue fiber attachment has been shown to occur to demineralized dentin and to normal cementum in this model system, fiber attachment did not occur to the cementum in the present study, It appears that the citric acid treatment failed to sufficiently demineralize the periodontitis‐affected cementum and expose a hospitable collagenous matrix.
Clinical effects of root debridement in molar and non‐molar teeth A 2‐year follow‐up
Authors: Loos Bruno , Nylund Karin , Claffey Noel , Egelberg Jan
Published: December 2005

Abstract 12 patients were studied longitudinally to monitor the effects of basic periodontal therapy in molar and non‐molar teeth. Periodontal sites were grouped into molar furcation sites, molar fiat‐surface sites and non‐molar sites. Clinical measurements were taken at baseline and directly followed by full mouth root debridement. Subsequently, measurements were taken every 3rd month until 24 months. At each of these appointments, the patients were monitored for their oral hygiene performance and given supragingival prophylaxis. The mean results indicated that initially moderately deep and deep molar furcation sites responded less favorably to therapy compared to non molar sites and molar flat‐surface sites of similar probing depth. Initial improvements in probing measurements for moderately deep and deep molar furcation sites were limited and also tended to revert during the observation interval. Identification of individual sites with probing attachment loss disclosed that 25% of molar furcation sites lost probing attachment as compared to 7% for non‐molar sites and 10% for molar flat‐surface sites. These results corroborate previous findings and call for additional or alternative treatment regimens for periodontal furcation pockets.
Probing site configuration in patients with untreated periodontitis
Authors: Watts Trevor L. P.
Published: December 2005

Abstract This study examined the morphology of 487 probing sites in patients with untreated periodontitis, using a constant force probe (0.25 N, 0.5 mm) and flexible stent with guide grooves, at 3 adjacent points per site, 6 sites per tooth. Sites were classified into 9 configuration types according to the relationship of the 3 adjacent points. Duplicate measurements were made and sites were analysed with special reference to whether a slight horizontal movement was likely at the second examination, 60% of individual point probing measurements were exactly reproduced, but only 23% of site configurations. 65% of configuration change was accountable on the basis of slight horizontal shift of the probe. Only 13% of configurations required the postulate of other forms of probing error. These results suggest that probing reproducibility is not always an indication of site reproducibility, and that the variation of probe position in the transverse plane is an important source of probing error, even when a stent is used.
Ultrasonic B‐scans of the facial/oral periodontium in pigs
Authors: Löst C. , Irion K.‐M. , Nüssle W.
Published: December 2005

Abstract In vitro ultrasonic scans of the oral/facial periodontium of pigs were obtained using a special experimental design and with the help of a newly developed ultrasonic measuring and analysis system. These two‐dimensional images distinguish themselves from the one‐dimensional RF‐echograms and A‐scans in that they enable the viewer to have a quick overview of the relationship between different interfaces in a scanned sector. A selection of ultrasonic B‐scans proves that the scanned tissues such as gingiva, bone, periodontal ligament, tooth surface and even structures of the inner part of the tooth may be clearly imaged and distinctly differentiated. Fürthermore, we demonstrate with manipulations of the pigs periodontium, that the interpretation of the pictures is correct. The primary goal of our investigation was to assess whether the ultrasonic procedure is suitable for the determination of the height of the facial/oral bone crest. On the basis of this study, we may confirm this supposition for the imaging in ultrasonic B‐scans.
Dynamics of Membrane Clathrin‐Coated Structures During Cytokinesis
Authors: Warner Anne K. , Keen James H. , Wang Yu‐Li
Published: December 2005

Remodeling of cell membranes takes place during motile processes such as cell migration and cell division. Defects of proteins involved in membrane dynamics, including clathrin and dynamin, disrupt cytokinesis. To understand the function of clathrin‐containing structures (CCS) in cytokinesis, we have expressed a green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion protein of clathrin light chain a (GFP‐clathrin) in NRK epithelial cells and recorded images of dividing cells near the ventral surface with a spinning disk confocal microscope. Punctate GFP‐CCS underwent dynamic appearance and disappearance throughout the ventral surface. Following anaphase onset, GFP‐CCS between separated chromosomes migrated toward the equator and subsequently disappeared in the equatorial region. Movements outside separating chromosomes were mostly random, similar to what was observed in interphase cells. Directional movements toward the furrow were dependent on both actin filaments and microtubules, while the appearance/disappearance of CCS was dependent on actin filaments but not on microtubules. These results suggest that CCS are involved in remodeling the plasma membrane along the equator during cytokinesis. Clathrin‐containing structures may also play a role in transporting signaling or structural components into the cleavage furrow.
Comparison of Instream Methods for Measuring Hydraulic Conductivity in Sandy Streambeds
Authors: Landon Matthew K. , Rus David L. , Harvey F. Edwin
Published: December 2005

Streambed hydraulic conductivity (K) values were determined at seven stream transects in the Platte River Basin in Nebraska using different instream measurement techniques. Values were compared to determine the most appropriate technique(s) for use in sandy streambeds. Values of K determined from field falling‐ and constant‐head permeameter tests analyzed using the Darcy equation decreased as permeameter diameter increased. Seepage meters coupled with hydraulic gradient measurements failed to yield K values in 40% of the trials. Consequently, Darcy permeameter and seepage meter tests were not preferred approaches. In the upper 0.25 m of the streambed, field falling‐ and constant‐head permeameter tests analyzed with the Hvorslev solution generally had similar K values that were significantly greater than those determined using the Hazen grain‐size, Bouwer and Rice slug test for anisotropic and isotropic conditions, and Alyamani and Sen grain‐size methods; median differences between these tests and the Hvorslev falling‐head 60 cm diameter permeameter were about 8, 9, 17, and 35 m/day, respectively. The Hvorslev falling‐head permeameter test is considered the most robust method for measuring K of the upper 0.25 m of the streambed because of the inherent limitations of the empirical grain‐size methods and less sediment disturbance for permeameter than slug tests. However, lateral variability in K along transects on the Platte, North Platte, and Wood Rivers was greater than variability in K between valid permeameter, grain‐size, or slug tests, indicating that the method used may matter less than making enough measurements to characterize spatial variability adequately. At the Platte River tributary sites, the upper 0.3 m of the streambed typically had greater K than sediment located 0.3 to 2.5 m below the streambed surface, indicating that deposits below the streambed may limit ground water/surface water fluxes. The Hvorslev permeameter tests are not a practical measurement approach for these greater depths. Thus, selection of a method for measuring streambed K needs to consider the vertical location of the sediments that are most likely to limit the rate of ground water/surface water interaction.
Helper T cells and atherosclerosis: the cytokine web
Authors: Baidya S G , Zeng Q-T
Published: December 2005

There is growing evidence regarding the importance of inflammation in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and its ultimate progression to the clinical syndromes. Recently there has been an increasing interest in the role of helper T (Th) cells in atherosclerosis. The Th cells act with the macrophages and the dendritic cells via the various cytokines in bringing about a variety of changes thus leading to the progression of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerotic lesions have been seen to have increased expression of type 1 helper T (TH1) cells together with increased levels of the Th1 related cytokines. It is mainly the cytokines involved with Th1 functioning that seem to show a prominent effect, with the whole process centred around interferon gamma, making it seem like every pathway and the cytokines involved lead to a final common pathway of interferon gamma secretion; the increase or decrease of which dictates the progression of atherosclerosis and its final manifestation as the clinical syndromes.
Differential diagnosis of common tremor syndromes
Authors: Bhidayasiri R
Published: December 2005

Tremor is one of the most common involuntary movement disorders seen in clinical practice. In addition to the detailed history, the differential diagnosis is mainly clinical based on the distinction at rest, postural and intention, activation condition, frequency, and topographical distribution. The causes of tremor are heterogeneous and it can present alone (for example, essential tremor) or as a part of a neurological syndrome (for example, multiple sclerosis). Essential tremor and the tremor of Parkinson’s disease are the most common tremors encountered in clinical practice. This article focuses on a practical approach to these different forms of tremor and how to distinguish them clinically. Evidence supporting various strategies used in the differentiation is then presented, followed by a review of formal guidelines or recommendations when they exist.
Agreement between community echocardiography and hospital echocardiography in patients suspected of having left ventricular systolic dysfunction
Authors: Jeyaseelan S , Goudie B M , Pringle S D , Donnan P T , Sullivan F M , Struthers A D
Published: December 2005

Background

Smaller echocardiography machines, when used in hospitals, are accurate for detecting left ventricular dysfunction and valvular disease. This paper assessed the detection of left ventricular dysfunction and of valvular disease in the community setting by a smaller machine.

Aims

To measure the agreement in patients with suspected heart failure between community echocardiography and traditional echocardiography in the hospital in detecting left ventricular dysfunction and significant valve disease.

Methods

Suspected heart failure patients were referred to one of the authors (SJ) for community echocardiography using a Siemens Cypress machine. The patients had a second echocardiogram in the hospital by another sonographer who was blinded to the results of the first echocardiogram. The reports of the two sonographers were assessed for agreement using κ statistics.

Results

458 patients had a community echocardiogram and 136 agreed to a second echocardiogram in the hospital. There was excellent agreement, κ = 0.87 (0.06 SE), for the detection of left ventricular dysfunction between community echocardiography and the hospital machine. The detection of significant valvular disease was good, κ = 0.75 (0.06) between the community echocardiogram and hospital machines.

Conclusions

In suspected heart failure patients, community echocardiography gives comparable results to traditional hospital echocardiography for left ventricular dysfunction detection and for significant valvular disease detection.
Liver transplantation for hepatitis C virus related liver disease
Authors: Gee I , Alexander G
Published: December 2005

Liver transplantation is a useful treatment for end stage liver disease of all aetiologies but recurrent disease presents an ongoing challenge, particularly for hepatitis C virus (HCV) where recurrence is almost universal. Immunosuppression is needed for all patients after transplantation and should be tailored to the individual patient, with particular problems being noted for those with HCV. The longer term effects of immunosuppression, particularly renal failure and the adverse effects of certain treatments on the liver graft, have become more important as survival improves and results are studied for longer periods after transplantation.
EVALUATING THE PERFORMANCE OF THE TAIWANESE HOTEL INDUSTRY USING A WEIGHT SLACKS-BASED MEASURE
Authors: SUN SHINN , LU WEN-MIN
Published: December 2005

The purpose of this paper is threefold: to assess the performance of 55 international tourist hotels in Taiwan in 2001 in terms of managerial, occupancy, and catering efficiencies; to analyze hotel operating characteristics, which might explain the variation in managerial efficiencies across these hotels; and to measure productivity growth in the 34 international tourist hotels over the years 1990–2001. Empirical results indicate that (1) the marketing for lodging services was not operated efficiently in 2001; (2) the hotels operated poorly both at the levels of occupancy and catering efficiencies in 2001; (3) there is a weak tendency for a hotel with relative high catering efficiency to go with good occupancy efficiency; (4) differences in operating variables, such as the floor space of catering department, the number of guest rooms, the closeness of a hotel to CKS international airport, and the number of employees do have a significant influence upon hotel performance; and finally, (5) about 61.76% of hotels had annual productivity changes over time.
PREEMPTIVE SCHEDULING ON PARALLEL PROCESSORS WITH DUE DATES
Authors: ZINDER YAKOV , SINGH GAURAV
Published: December 2005

The paper presents a priority algorithm for the maximum lateness problem with parallel identical processors, precedence constraints, and preemptions. The presented algorithm calculates the priority of each task by constructing a schedule for the set of its successors. The algorithm is motivated by comparison of its nonpreemptive counterpart with other algorithms for the problem with unit execution time tasks. It is shown that the presented algorithm constructs an optimal schedule for the problem with two processors and arbitrary precedence constraints, and for the problem with an arbitrary number of processors and precedence constraints in the form of an in-tree. This proof also indicates that the presented algorithm allows the worst-case performance ratio previously established for the so-called Muntz–Coffman algorithm for a particular case of the considered problem where all due dates are zero.
A METHODOLOGICAL COMPARISON BETWEEN STANDARD AND TWO STAGE MIXED INTEGER APPROACHES FOR DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS
Authors: SUEYOSHI TOSHIYUKI
Published: December 2005

A standard mixed integer programming (MIP) approach is compared with a two-stage MIP approach. A computational difference between the two DA (discriminant analysis) approaches is that the former uses a single MIP model to solve various classification problems and the latter uses two MIP models that classify all observations into one of two groups or an overlap at the first stage and then reclassify the overlapped observations at the second stage. In this study, the two MIP approaches are methodologically compared and then applied to a published data set related to Japanese banks. These classification performances are assessed by four hit rates. Based upon the comparison, it is confirmed that the two-stage approach performs at least as well as the standard approach.
CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN 5D RICCI-FLAT COSMOLOGICAL MODELS AND QUINTESSENCE DARK ENERGY MODELS
Authors: XU LIXIN , LIU HONGYA , CHANG BAORONG
Published: December 2005

We study the accelerating expansion and the induced dark energy of the 5D Ricci-flat universe which is characterized by having a big bounce as opposed to a big bang. We show that the arbitrary function μ(t) contained in the 5D solutions can be rewritten in terms of the redshift z as a new arbitrary function f(z), and we find that there is a correspondence between this f(z) and the potential V(ϕ) of the 4D quintessence models. Using this correspondence, the arbitrary function f(z) and the 5D solution could be specified for a given form of the potential V(ϕ).
MINIMAL LENGTH AND GENERALIZED DIRAC EQUATION
Authors: NOZARI KOUROSH , KARAMI MOJDEH
Published: December 2005

Existence of a minimal observable length which has been indicated by string theory and quantum gravity, leads to a modification of Dirac equation. In this letter we find this modified Dirac equation and solve its eigenvalue problem for a free particle. We will show that due to background spacetime fluctuation, it is impossible to have free particle in Planck scale.
PRODUCTION OF LONG-LIVED CHARGED SLEPTONS AT LHC
Authors: GLADYSHEV A. V. , KAZAKOV D. I. , PAUCAR M. G.
Published: December 2005

We analyze the MSSM parameter space and discuss the narrow band in the so-called co-annihilation region where sleptons may be long-lived particles. This region is consistent with the WMAP restrictions on the Dark matter and depends on the value of tan β. In this region staus are long-lived and may go through the detector. Due to a relatively small mass (150–850 GeV) their production cross-section at LHC may reach a few % pb.
NUCLEAR FUSION RATE STUDY OF A MUONIC MOLECULE VIA NUCLEAR THRESHOLD RESONANCES
Authors: FAGHIHI F. , ESKANDARI M. R.
Published: December 2005

This work follows our previous calculations of the ground state binding energy, size, and the effective nuclear charge of the muonic T3 molecule, using the Born–Oppenheimer adiabatic approximation. In our past articles, we showed that the system possesses two minimum positions, the first one at the muonic distance and the second at the atomic distance. Also, the symmetric planner vibrational model assumed between the two minima and the approximated potential were calculated. Following from the previous studies, we now calculate the fusion rate of the T3 muonic molecule according to the overlap integral of the resonance nuclear compound nucleus and the molecular wave functions.
FUSION INDUCED BY RADIOACTIVE ION BEAMS
Authors: LIANG J. F. , SIGNORINI C.
Published: December 2005

The use of radioactive beams opens a new frontier for fusion studies. The coupling to the continuum can be explored with very loosely bound nuclei. Experiments were performed with beams of nuclei at or near the proton and neutron drip-lines to measure fusion and associated reactions in the vicinity of the Coulomb barrier. In addition, the fusion yield is predicted to be enhanced in reactions involving very neutron-rich unstable nuclei. Experimental measurements were carried out to investigate if it is feasible to use such beams to produce new heavy elements. The current status of these experimental activities is given in this review.
USING WAVELETS TO COMPARE TIME SERIES PATTERNS
Authors: MAHARAJ ELIZABETH ANN
Published: December 2005

In this paper, a procedure for comparing the patterns of time series using wavelets is developed. Randomization tests based on the ratio of the sum of squared wavelet coefficients of pairs of time series at different scales are used. A simulation study using pairs of different types of time series using the Haar and Daubechies wavelets is carried out. The results reveal that the tests perform fairly well at scales where there are a sufficient number of wavelet coefficients. The tests are applied to a set of financial time series.
A TIME ACCURATE PSEUDO-WAVELET SCHEME FOR TWO-DIMENSIONAL TURBULENCE
Authors: RATHISH KUMAR B. V. , MEHRA MANI
Published: December 2005

In this paper, we propose a wavelet-Taylor–Galerkin method for solving the two-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations. The discretization in time is performed before the spatial discretization by introducing second-order generalization of the standard time stepping schemes with the help of Taylor series expansion in time step. Wavelet-Taylor–Galerkin schemes taking advantage of the wavelet bases capabilities to compress both functions and operators are presented. Results for two-dimensional turbulence are shown.
ELECTRIC POWER DEFINITION IN THE WAVELET DOMAIN
Authors: CANO PLATA EDUARDO ANTONIO , TACCA HERNÁN EMILIO
Published: December 2005

This paper discusses the definition of active and reactive power in wavelet domain. Different definitions for three-phase power may cause significant changes in the measurement equipment topology. The simple phase shift using the Akagi method between current and voltage for reactive power measurement is discussed. A new power quality analysis technique (pqAT) is proposed.
Exercise training restores uncoupling protein-3 content in limb muscles of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Gosker Harry R. , Schrauwen Patrick , Broekhuizen Roelinka , Hesselink Matthijs K. C. , Moonen-Kornips Esther , Ward Kimberly A. , Franssen Frits M. E. , Wouters Emiel F. M. , Schols Annemie M. W. J.
Published: December 2005

Oxidative capacity and uncoupling protein-3 (UCP3) content are reduced in limb muscles of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It has been hypothesized that the physiological role of UCP3 is to protect mitochondria against lipotoxicity in cases where fatty acid influx exceeds the capacity to oxidize them. Exercise training improves oxidative capacity and reduces UCP3 protein content in healthy subjects, but the response of UCP3 to training in COPD is unknown. We studied the effect of exercise training on UCP3 content in limb muscles of COPD patients. For this, seven healthy age-matched subjects and thirteen patients with COPD were studied. All patients were admitted to an 8-wk exercise training intervention. Exercise capacity was assessed by means of an incremental cycle ergometry test. Biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis in which UCP3 and lipid peroxidation levels were determined by Western blotting. Citrate synthase and 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (HAD; an enzyme involved in fatty acid oxidation) were measured as indexes of muscle oxidative capacity. UCP3 in COPD was ∼50% lower compared with healthy age-matched controls. In COPD, training induced upregulation of UCP3 [from 67.7 (SD 41.8) to 113.8 (SD 104.2) arbitrary units (AU), P = 0.062], especially in the patients who showed no increase in HAD activity [from 80.9 (SD 52.6) to 167.9 (SD 109.1) AU, P = 0.028], whereas lipid peroxidation levels remained unaltered. We conclude that exercise-training can restore muscle UCP3 protein level in COPD, and the nature of this response complies with the hypothesis that UCP3 may protect against lipotoxicity.
Cardiac glycoside downregulates NHE3 activity and expression in LLC-PK1cells
Authors: Oweis Shadi , Wu Liang , Kiela Pawel R. , Zhao Hui , Malhotra Deepak , Ghishan Fayez K. , Xie Zijian , Shapiro Joseph I. , Liu Jiang
Published: December 2005

Ouabain, a cardiotonic steroid and a specific inhibitor of the Na+-K+-ATPase, has been shown to significantly inhibit transcellular Na+transport without altering the intracellular Na+concentration ([Na+]i) in the epithelial cells derived from the renal proximal tubules. We therefore studied whether ouabain affects the activity and expression of Na+/H+exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3) representing the major route of apical Na+reabsorption in LLC-PK1cells. Chronic basolateral, but not apical, exposure to low-concentration ouabain (50 and 100 nM) did not change [Na+]ibut significantly reduced NHE3 activity, NHE3 protein, and mRNA expression. Inhibition of c-Src or phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) with PP2 or wortmannin, respectively, abolished ouabain-induced downregulation of NHE3 activity and mRNA expression. In caveolin-1 knockdown LLC-PK1cells, ouabain failed to downregulate NHE3 mRNA expression and NHE3 promoter activity. Ouabain response elements were mapped to a region between −450 and −1,194 nt, where decreased binding of thyroid hormone receptor (TR) and Sp1 to their cognate cis-elements was documented in vitro and in vivo by protein/DNA array analysis, EMSA, supershift, and chromatin immunoprecipitation. These data suggest that, in LLC-PK1cells, ouabain-induced signaling through the Na+-K+-ATPase-Src pathway results in decreased Sp1 and TR DNA binding activity and consequently in decreased expression and activity of NHE3. These novel findings may represent the underlying mechanism of cardiotonic steroid-mediated renal compensatory response to volume expansion and/or hypertension.
Synchronous Activity in Cat Visual Cortex Encodes Collinear and Cocircular Contours
Authors: Samonds Jason M. , Zhou Zhiyi , Bernard Melanie R. , Bonds A. B.
Published: December 2005

We explored how contour information in primary visual cortex might be embedded in the simultaneous activity of multiple cells recorded with a 100-electrode array. Synchronous activity in cat visual cortex was more selective and predictable in discriminating between drifting grating and concentric ring stimuli than changes in firing rate. Synchrony was found even between cells with wholly different orientation preferences when their receptive fields were circularly aligned, and membership in synchronous groups was orientation and curvature dependent. The existence of synchrony between cocircular cells reinforces its role as a general mechanism for contour integration and shape detection as predicted by association field concepts. Our data suggest that cortical synchrony results from common and synchronous input from earlier visual areas and that it could serve to shape extrastriate response selectivity.
Genomic analysis of neuroendocrine development of fetal brain-pituitary-adrenal axis in late gestation
Authors: Keller-Wood Maureen , Powers Melanie J. , Gersting Jason A. , Ali Nyima , Wood Charles E.
Published: December 2005

The present study was performed to identify the changes in genomic expression of critical components of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the second half of gestation in fetal sheep. We isolated mRNA from pituitary, hypothalamus, hippocampus, and brain stem in fetal sheep at 80, 100, 120, 130, and 145 days of gestation and 1 and 7 days after delivery ( n = 4–5/group). Using real-time RT-PCR, we measured mRNA expression levels of glucocorticoid receptor (GR), mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), serum- and glucocorticoid-induced kinase-1 (sgk1), proopiomelanocortin (POMC), CRF, and arginine vasopressin (AVP). Both MR and GR were highly expressed in pituitary and hippocampus; in all tissues GR was more highly expressed than MR. AVP was more highly expressed than CRF in hypothalamus. MR, GR, and sgk1 expression were increased postnatally in brain stem, and sgk1 expression was increased postnatally in hypothalamus. GR expression was reduced in pituitary in term fetuses compared with younger ages. Hypothalamic CRF expression was increased at the end of gestation compared with younger ages, and AVP expression was increased in newborn lambs. Pituitary POMC was increased at 100 days of gestation compared with 80 days; hypothalamic POMC was increased at 120 days. Overall, the results demonstrate the expression of both MR and GR in brain regions important for control of the HPA axis. Decreases in expression of GR in pituitary at the end of gestation might contribute to the decreased corticosteroid negative feedback sensitivity at term in this species.
Some fixed point theorems for multivalued maps in ordered Banach spaces and applications
Authors: Chengbo Zhai , Chen Yang
Published: December 2005

The existence of maximal and minimal fixed points for various set‐valued operators is discussed. This paper presents some new fixed point theorems in ordered Banach spaces. A necessary and sufficient condition for the existence of the fixed point to a class of multivalued maps has been obtained. The uniqueness of the positive fixed point has been discussed. The results extend and improve the corresponding results. As an application, we utilize the results to study the existence and uniqueness of positive fixed points for a class of convex operators. In the end, we give a simple application to certain integral equations.
On variants of a theorem of Schur
Authors: Hilton Peter
Published: December 2005

We provide improved versions of the statements and proofs of the two main theorems of Hilton (2001), together with the statement and proof of a new theorem on the localization of nilpotent groups.
A note on derivations in semiprime rings
Authors: Vukman Joso , Kosi-Ulbl Irena
Published: December 2005

We prove in this note the following result. Let n > 1 be an integer and let R be an n!‐torsion‐free semiprime ring with identity element. Suppose that there exists an additive mapping D : R → R such that is fulfilled for all x ∈ R. In this case, D is a derivation. This research is motivated by the work of Bridges and Bergen (1984). Throughout, R will represent an associative ring with center Z(R). Given an integer n > 1, a ring R is said to be n‐torsion‐free if for x ∈ R, nx = 0 implies that x = 0. Recall that a ring R is prime if for a, b ∈ R, aRb = (0) implies that either a = 0 or b = 0, and is semiprime in case aRa = (0) implies that a = 0. An additive mapping D : R → R is called a derivation if D(xy) = D(x)y + xD(y) holds for all pairs x, y ∈ R and is called a Jordan derivation in case D(x2) = D(x)x + xD(x) is fulfilled for all x ∈ R. Every derivation is a Jordan derivation. The converse is in general not true. A classical result of Herstein (1957) asserts that any Jordan derivation on a prime ring with characteristic different from two is a derivation. A brief proof of Herstein′s result can be found in 1988 by Brešar and Vukman. Cusack (1975) generalized Herstein′s result to 2‐torsion‐free semiprime rings (see also Brešar (1988) for an alternative proof). For some other results concerning derivations on prime and semiprime rings, we refer to Brešar (1989), Vukman (2005), Vukman and Kosi‐Ulbl (2005).
Hydrodynamic effect on the three‐dimensional flow past a vertical porous plate
Authors: Guria M. , Jana R. N.
Published: December 2005

The study of unsteady hydrodynamic free convective flow of a viscous incompressible fluid past a vertical porous plate in the presence of a variable suction has been made. Approximate solutions have been derived for the velocity and temperature fields, shear stress, and rate of heat transfer using perturbation technique. It is observed that main fluid velocity decreases with increase in Prandtl number, while it increases with increase in suction parameter. The cross‐velocity decreases near the plate and increases away from the plate with increase in suction parameter. On the other hand, it increases near the plate and decreases away from the plate with increase in frequency parameter. The amplitude and the tangent of phase shift of the shear stress due to main flow decrease with increase in either Prandtl number, Grashof number, or frequency parameter. It is seen that the temperature decreases with increase in either suction parameter, Prandtl number, or frequency parameter. It is also seen that the amplitude of the rate of heat transfer increases and the tangent of phase shift of rate of heat transfer decreases with increase in Prandtl number.
Thermal Fluid Flow Transport Phenomenon in Unsteady Rotating Drumduring Spin‐Down Process
Authors: Torii Shuichi , Yang Wen-Jei
Published: December 2005

Numerical analysis is performed on unsteady‐state
thermal fluid flow transport phenomena in a rotating drum heated
at constant wall temperature during a spin‐down process. Emphasis
is placed on the effect of aspect ratio of the drum on the
velocity and temperature fields. The governing equations are
discretized by means of a finite‐difference technique and
numerically solved to determine the distributions of velocity
vector and fluid temperature in the drum. It is disclosed from the
study that (i) the formation of Ekman boundary layers on both
sidewalls of the drum results in a pair of recirculating flows,
and (ii) an attenuation of the flow velocity is affected by the
aspect ratio of a drum. Results may be used to develop a method to
achieve uniform mixing in an enclosed vessel.
Systematic Investigation on Conjugate Heat Transfer Rates of Film Cooling Configurations
Authors: Bohn Dieter , Ren Jing , Kusterer Karsten
Published: December 2005

For the determination of the film‐cooling heat transfer,
the design of a turbine blade relies on the conventional
determination of the adiabatic film‐cooling effectiveness and heat
transfer conditions for test configurations. Thus, additional
influences by the interaction of fluid flow and heat transfer and
influences by additional convective heat transfer cannot be taken
into account with sufficient accuracy. Within this paper,
calculations of a film‐cooled duct wall and a
film‐cooled real blade with application of the
adiabatic and a conjugate heat transfer condition have been
performed for different configurations. It can be shown that the
application of the conjugate calculation method comprises the
influence of heat transfer within the cooling film. The local heat
transfer rate varies significantly depending on the local
position.
Approximation on the sphere by weighted Fourier expansions
Authors: Menegatto V. A. , Piantella A. C.
Published: December 2005

The main theme of this paper is the approximation on the sphere by
weighted sums of spherical harmonics. We give necessary and
sufficient conditions on the weights for convergence in both the
continuous and the LP cases. Approximation by spherical
convolution is a particular and important case that fits into our
setting.
On the product and ratio of Laplace and Bessel random variables
Authors: Nadarajah Saralees
Published: December 2005

The distributions of products and ratios of random variables are
of interest in many areas of the sciences. In this paper, the
exact distributions of the product |XY| and the ratio |X/Y| are derived when X and Y are Laplace and Bessel function
random variables distributed independently of each other.
Simultaneous Determination of Dissolved Organic Carbon and TotalDissolved Nitrogen on a Coupled High‐Temperature Combustion Total Organic Carbon‐Nitrogen Chemiluminescence Detection (HTC TOC‐NCD) System
Authors: Pan Xi , Sanders Richard , Tappin Alan D. , Worsfold Paul J. , Achterberg Eric P.
Published: December 2005

The marine biogeochemistries of carbon and nitrogen have come under increased scrutiny because of their close involvement in climate change and coastal eutrophication. Recent studies have shown that the high‐temperature combustion (HTC) technique is suitable for routine analyses of dissolved organic matter due to its good oxidation efficiency, high sensitivity, and precision. In our laboratory, a coupled HTC TOC‐NCD system with a sample changer was used for the automated and simultaneous determination of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and total dissolved nitrogen (TDN)
in seawater samples. TOC control software was used for TOC instrument control, DOC data acquisition, and data analysis. TDN data acquisition and manipulation was undertaken under LabVIEW. The combined system allowed simultaneous determination of DOC and TDN in the same sample using a single injection and provided low detection limits and excellent linear ranges for both DOC and TDN. The risk of contamination has been remarkably reduced due to the minimal sample manipulation and automated analyses. The optimised system provided a reliable tool for the routine determination of
DOC and TDN in marine waters.
Role and Limitations of Laparoscopic Liver Resection of Colorectal Metastases
Authors: Mala Tom , Edwin Bjørn
Published: December 2005

Background: The current experience of laparoscopic liver resection is reviewed focusing on the role and limitations of resection of colorectal metastases. Surgical technique, outcome, and the main controversies regarding the procedures are described. Methods: Current literature on laparoscopic liver resection is reviewed based on reports identified following a specified PubMed search. Results: Available evidence indicates that laparoscopic liver resection can be made safely in selected patients with comparable duration of surgery, blood loss, tumour clearance, and mortality to that of open resection. Tumours localised peripherally in the left lateral segments of the liver or in segments IV–VI seem to be best suited for laparoscopic resection. The laparoscopic approach may be beneficial to the patients as compared to conventional resection but randomised trials are pending. Laparoscopic resection of colorectal liver metastases is described in a small number of patients only. The long-term outcome following such resections is not adequately documented. Conclusions: Laparoscopic liver resection is a promising technique with a comparable short-term outcome to that of open procedures but with the potential advantages of minimal invasive treatment. The technique should be further evaluated in properly designed trials. Laparoscopic resection of colorectal liver metastases should not be performed on a regular basis until long-term results are defined.
Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging of an Intracranial Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Breysem Luc , Witters Ingrid , Spitz Bernard , Moerman Philippe , Smet Maria Helena
Published: December 2005

Objective: To describe the magnetic resonance imaging findings of an antenatal intracranial venous thrombosis. Methods: Prenatal ultrasound (US) at 22 weeks’ gestational age (GA) in a 27-year-old patient (G2 P1) revealed a nonspecific avascular echogenic mass above the cerebellum evaluated with MRI at 23 weeks’ GA. Results: With MRI an enlarged occipital pericerebral space with a layered ovoid mass at the torcular herophili was demonstrated and MRI characteristics suggested a subacute cloth. In follow-up, an important enlargement of the mass was noticed on US examinations. After multidisciplinary consult and parental consent, a prostaglandin induction was performed at 25 weeks’ GA. The baby died immediately after birth. Pathology confirmed the diagnosis of a venous thrombosis at the torcular herophili with extension into the superior sagittal sinus. Conclusion: In our case, MRI findings were helpful in diagnosing an intracranial fetal venous thrombosis.
Optimal Interval between Middle Cerebral Artery Velocity Measurements when Monitoring Pregnancies Complicated by Red Cell Alloimmunization
Authors: Bartha Jose L. , Abdel-Fattah Sherif A. , Hunter Alyson , Denbow Mark , Kyle Phillipa , Soothill Peter W.
Published: December 2005

Objective: To evaluate the optimal interval between middle cerebral artery (MCA) Doppler measurements when monitoring pregnancies complicated by red cell alloimmunization. Methods: Thirty-nine fetal blood samplings (FBS) performed on 24 pregnant women with red blood cell alloimmunization followed up using both MCA peak systolic velocity and time-averaged mean velocity measurements on weekly basis. Results: In total, 65.5 and 37.5% of women with moderate or severe fetal anemia had abnormal MCA Doppler values 1 and 2 weeks, respectively, before FBS was performed. Conclusions: A weekly assessment of women at risk for fetal anemia is optimal in most of the cases even though 35.5% of cases of moderate or severe fetal anemia are expected to have normal Doppler measurements the week before the decision of doing an FBS is made.
Size and Location of the Fetal Human Ovary
Authors: Sulak Osman , Malas Mehmet Ali , Esen Kadriye , Çetin Esra , Tagil Suleyman Murat
Published: December 2005

Objective: To determine the development and the localization of the ovaries during the fetal period. Material and Methods: One hundred and fifty-four ovaries obtained from 77 human fetuses aged between 9 and 40 weeks of gestation were used in this study. Firstly, the shapes and the positions of the ovaries were established. Second, the localization of the ovaries with respect to linea terminalis, ureters, and the iliac arteries were determined. Finally, the dimensions and the weight of the ovaries were measured. Findings: In the fetal period, the ovaries were most commonly almond shaped and had an oblique orientation. In the 1st trimester the midpoint of the long axis of the fetal ovaries were at the level of linea terminalis. In the 2nd and 3rd trimester and full-term fetuses, it was observed that the ovaries were not in ovarian fossa, suggesting that descensus ovary was in progression during these times. During the intrauterine period, the ovaries were most commonly located anterior to the ureters and over the common iliac artery, only to migrate to its final location between the internal and external iliac arteries towards the end of the 40th week. Conclusion: We found that the ovaries did not assume the position of the adults at the end of the fetal period, rather continued its descent after the birth. We believe our findings about the fetal ovaries will be useful in obstetrics, fetal pathology, and forensic pathology.
Intravenous Immunoglobulins without Initial and Follow-Up Cordocentesis in Alloimmune Fetal and Neonatal Thrombocytopenia at High Risk for Intracranial Hemorrhage
Authors: Kanhai Humphrey H.H. , van den Akker Eline S.A. , Walther Frans J. , Brand Anneke
Published: December 2005

Objective: To report on a less invasive treatment strategy in alloimmune fetal and neonatal thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) at high risk for either in utero or neonatal intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Methods: In 7 pregnancies, with a history of ICH in the older sibling, weekly intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy to the mother (1 g/kg) without initial cordocentesis was started at a median gestational age of 16 weeks. Results: In 4 pregnancies cordocentesis was avoided. One predelivery cordocentesis with platelet transfusion was performed in 3 further cases. Although none of the cases had a platelet count of >50 × 109/l at cordocentesis, predelivery or birth, no ICHs were observed. The neonatal periods of the infants were uncomplicated. Conclusion: IVIG treatment alone might be considered in patients with both severe platelet alloimmunization and an increased risk for morbidity and mortality at cordocentesis.
Triploidy in a Growth Discordant Twin Pregnancy after Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Treatment
Authors: Mendilcioglu Inanc , Ozcan Mualla , Bagci Gulseren , Simsek Mehmet , Kursun Sinan , Luleci Guven , Taskin Omur
Published: December 2005

Objective: We report on a case of a triploidy in one fetus of a twin pregnancy who presented with the findings of growth discordance. Methods: Three weeks’ difference between fetuses in ultrasonographic measurements in the first trimester was observed in a twin pregnancy following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment for male infertility. Hydrocephaly developed in the growth-discordant fetus subsequently. Amniocentesis for both fetuses and selective feticide for the abnormal one was performed at 19weeks’ gestation through a single insertion. Fetal karyotype of the abnormal one was 69,XXX and the healthy one was 46,XX. Conclusion: Early developed growth discordance in a twin pregnancy may be a sign of chromosomal abnormality such as triploidy. Those cases should be karyotyped without delay to decrease preterm delivery risk of possible selective feticide.
Reduced Nitric Oxide in Amniotic Fluid of Patients with Chorioamnionitis
Authors: Daoud Ghada A. , Suzuki Yoshikatsu , Yamamoto Tamao , Suzumori Kaoru , Togari Hajime
Published: December 2005

Objective: Levels of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines were assessed in amniotic fluid obtained from patients with severe chorioamnionitis (CAM) and appropriate controls. Methods: Amniotic fluid was obtained from 12 patients with CAM (17–24 weeks of gestation) and 89 patients undergoing diagnostic amniocentesis (16–18 weeks of gestation). The concentrations of NO, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and leukocyte elastase (LE) in amniotic fluid were then measured and compared. Results: The concentrations of NO, IL-6, and LE were all higher in CAM cases than in normal pregnant women. Furthermore, an inverse correlation between NO and LE was suggested in the CAM group. Conclusions: These results indicate that in severe CAM, the action of NO might be reduced, not only due to blockage of action but also by degradation, despite increased production.
Increased Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Cardiac Structures of Fetus with Hydrops as Compared to Nonhydropic Controls
Authors: Brandenburg Helen , Bartelings Margot M. , Wisse Lambertus J. , Steegers Eric A.P. , Gittenberger-de Groot Adriana C.
Published: December 2005

Objective: The hypothesis that severe fetal hydrops is caused by an excess of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), mainly produced in the fetal heart, is tested. Methods: Immunohistochemical VEGF-stained postmortem biopsies from the right ventricle and right atrium of 8 hydropic fetuses were compared to those of 8 nonhydropic fetuses. The endocardium, myocardium, epicardium, endothelium, and vascular smooth muscle cells were scored on intensity of VEGF-staining. The Mann-Witney test was used to test for significancy (p < 0.05) of the differences in staining. Increased vascularization as a result of VEGF was measured in both groups by standard randomization count. Results: The endocardium, epicardium and endothelium of the coronary vessels showed significantly (p < 0.05) more intense VEGF-staining in the hydrops group than in the control group. The atria showed more intense staining than the ventricles in both groups. The hydropic fetuses showed a significantly increased number of coronary vessels in the myocardium. These vessels contained more blood cells than the coronary vessels in nonhydropic fetuses. Conclusion: The fetal heart appears to be a major source of excess VEGF in fetal hydrops.