bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ausgleichsgeraden in der Ebene (Least-square Straight Lines in the Plane)
Authors: Krystek Michael
Published: February 2004

Bei der Auswertung von Messdaten ist es häufig notwendig, Ausgleichsgeraden in der Ebene zu berechnen. Der Ausgleich soll dabei derart sein, dass die Summe der Quadrate der Abstände senkrecht zur Ausgleichsgeraden zu einem Minimum wird. Hier wird der Algorithmus des vollständigen Ausgleichs durch eine Gerade in der Ebene hergeleitet. Für den Praktiker wird zusätzlich eine C-Routine angegeben.
Messung der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit in offenen Gerinnen nach dem Laufzeit-Korrelations-Prinzip mit rückgestreuter Laserstrahlung (Velocity Measurement of Liquid Flows in Open Channels using Time Correlation of Backscattered Laser Radiation Signals)
Authors: Diehl Reiner , Siebeneck Heinrich-Joachim
Published: February 2004

Es wird über ein Messverfahren zur Bestimmung der Strömungsgeschwindigkeit in offenen Gerinnen berichtet. Zwei Laserstrahlen beleuchten die Messvolumina. Das rückgestreute Laserlicht eines in der Tiefe einstellbaren Messhorizontes wird als Eingangsgröße eines nach dem Laufzeit-Korrelations-Prinzip arbeitenden Auswerteverfahrens verwendet.
Kontrollierte biochemische Synthese auf Metall/Halbleiter-Nanostrukturen (Controlled Biochemical Synthesis on Metal/Semiconductor Nanostructures)
Authors: Altebäumer Thomas , Kern Dieter , Ehlich Rudolf , Hörber Heinrich , Raschke Markus , Nibbering Erik , Lienau Christoph
Published: February 2004

Die Antennenwirkung von metallischen oder halbleitenden Nanostrukturen in elektromagnetischen Feldern soll eingesetzt werden, um chemische Reaktionen an deren Oberflächen zu optimieren. Das Ziel ist die spezifische Synthese von Oligonukleinsäuresequenzen zum Aufbau von hochdichten “DNA-Arrays” mit nanotechnologischen Methoden. Die Nanostrukturen werden für die Untersuchungen von einerseits Photonen-Transfer-Reaktionen und andererseits für Elektronen-Transfer-Reaktionen durch die Wahl geeigneter Geometrien und Materialien angepasst.
TexPat – a program for quantitative analysis of oblique texture electron diffraction patterns
Authors: Oleynikov Peter , Hovmöller Sven , Zou Xiaodong , Zhukhlistov Anatoliy P. , Nickolsky Maxim S. , Zvyagin Boris B.
Published: February 2004

We have developed a program – TexPat for quantification of texture patterns in order to facilitate, speed up and improve the accuracy of this analytical method. The program introduces new approaches for automated detection of centre and symmetry axes and simplifies the process of indexing and calculating the unit cell parameters. The main algorithm of the program uses the symmetry properties of the texture pattern images. The successive steps help to process the reflections of the pattern using the peak shape extracted from well-separated peaks. The program generates a list of unit cell parameters, all processed reflections with Miller indices and their integrated intensities. The quality of the results obtained by TexPat is compatible with published data.
The system Cu3AsS4–Cu3SbS4and investigations on normal tetrahedral structures
Authors: Pfitzner Arno , Bernert Thomas
Published: February 2004

In order to develop a novel model to predict if a so called normal tetrahedral compound crystallizes in awurtzite- orsphaleritesuperstructure type, the system Cu3AsS4–Cu3SbS4was reinvestigated. A solid solution series was prepared and the mixed crystals were characterized by powder X-ray techniques. The crystal structures of Cu3As0.330Sb0.670S4, Cu3As0.736Sb0.264S4, and Cu3AsS4were refined from single crystal X-ray data. The refinements converged toR= 0.0209,wR2 = 0.0484 (Cu3As0.330Sb0.670S4, 201 unique reflections, 15 parameters),R= 0.0235,wR2 = 0.0596 (Cu3As0.736Sb0.264S4, 218 reflections, 15 parameters), andR= 0.0241,wR2 = 0.0669 (Cu3AsS4, 721 reflections, 45 parameters).Zis 2 for all compounds. The volumes of the tetrahedra [MS4] were calculated for the investigated compounds. In addition, the corresponding data were calculated for further solids from literature data. The volumes of the tetrahedra are used to separate compounds with asphaleritetype anion arrangement from compounds with hexagonal packed anions. A closer inspection of the tetrahedra volumes reveals a greater variation for one given material in the case ofwurtzitetype superstructures than forsphaleritetype superstructures. A critical difference in the tetrahedra volumes is derived from these data.
Crystal structures ofα-quartz homeotypes boron phosphate and boron arsenate: structure-property relationships
Authors: Haines Julien , Cambon Olivier , Astier René , Fertey Pierre , Chateau Christian
Published: February 2004

The structures of single crystals of theα-quartz homeotypes boron phosphate and boron arsenate prepared under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in a belt-type apparatus were determined by X-ray diffraction. Both structures are more distorted with respect to theβ-quartz structure type thanα-quartz itself with average tetrahedral tilt anglesδof 19.7° and 24.6° for BPO4and BAsO4, respectively. The structure of BAsO4is one of the most highly distorted found amongα-quartz homeotypes. It is shown that for the knownα-quartz homeotypes, the density, which can be related to the frequency constant for piezoelectric resonators, scales with the intertetrahedral bridging angleθ.
Three polymorphic forms of dipotassium O-phospho-L-serinate hydrates
Authors: Bryndal Iwona , Picur Bolesław , Lis Tadeusz
Published: February 2004

Three polymorphic forms of dipotassium salt of O-phospho-L-serine were obtained from water solutions at different pH. Two forms (α and β) crystallize in the monoclinic space group P2, while the third (γ) crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group P212121. All crystals are composed of O-phospho-L-serine ions, potassium cations and water molecules of hydration. In all salts, the O-phospho-L-serine moiety exists as a dianion with two negatively charged phosphate groups, one negatively charged carboxyl group and one positively charged ammonium group. The molecular geometry of O-phospho-L-serine (PSer) dianions resembles that found for the zwitterions in crystalline L- and DL-forms of O-phosphoserine. The orientation of the phosphate group relative to the serine backbone is almost trans (–ap) in all three forms. In all forms, there are no significant differences in the values of the bond lengths in the O-phospho-L-serine moiety. The crystal packings are dominated by K…O interactions and intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The polyhedrons around the K+ cations are rather irregular. However, a specific spatial arrangement of potassium cations is similar in all three crystals.
Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy as a Versatile Tool for Modifying Surfaces
Authors: Radtke Valentin , Heinze Jürgen
Published: February 2004

Micromodification of surfaces is the introduction of well-defined, directly local changes in the chemical or physical properties of such surfaces. This includes etching processes, deposition of materials and chemical modification of the surface material. As a scanning probe technique, the scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM) is predestined to generate chemical changes locally. Our intention is to demonstrate the effect of local chemical changes on a surface. For this purpose, we first recapitulate the work of our group on micromodification and then deal with galvanic deposition of metals, electroless deposition of conducting polymers and the use of etching to introduce organic features onto an inorganic surface.
The Absorption Spectrum of Anisole and the Anisole/CO2 1:1-Cluster. The Influence of Intermolecular Interaction on Intramolecular Vibrations
Authors: Gemechu A. S. , Hoffmann L. J. H. , Marquardt S. , Eisenhardt C. G. , Baumgärtel Helmut , Chelli R. , Cardini G. , Califano S.
Published: February 2004

The S
1(1
B
2) ← S
0(1
A
1) electronic transition of anisole and the anisole/CO2 aggregate cooled in a supersonic free jet has been investigated in detail using REMPI spectroscopy and quantumchemical model calculations. The 42 intramolecular modes of anisole in the 1
S
1 state are assigned. Some previous assignments of modes of anisole in the 1
S
1 state have been improved, some of the assignments are still tentative. The origin of the corresponding electronic transition in the 1:1-aggregate is blueshifted by 117cm−1 versus the 0-0 transition of anisole, the origine in the 1:2-agreggate is redshifted by 216cm−1. Probably a second conformer of the 1:1-aggregate is formed in the molecular beam. 36 fundamental modes of the anisole/CO2 1:1-cluster out of possible 46 intramolecular modes are assigned. Spectral shifts of the fundamental modes in the 1
S
1 state of anisole/CO2 due to the aggregation have been observed. The intermolecular modes and their binary combinations with intramolecular modes have been analyzed.
Kinetic Hydrogen/Deuterium Isotope Effects in Multiple Proton Transfer Reactions
Authors: Limbach Hans-Heinrich , Klein Oliver , Lopez Del Amo Juan Miguel , Elguero Jose
Published: February 2004

In this paper, a description of multiple kinetic isotope effects (MKIE) of degenerate double, triple and quadruple proton transfer reactions in terms of formal kinetics is developped. Both single and multiple barrier processes are considered, corresponding to so-called “concerted” and “stepwise” reaction pathways. Each step is characterized by a rate constant and the transfer of a given H isotopes or ensemble of H isotopes. The MKIE are expanded in terms of kinetic H/D isotope effects P contributed by single sites in which a proton is transferred in the rate limiting steps. By combination with a modified Bell tunneling model the formalism developed can be used in order to take into account tunneling effects of both concerted and stepwise multiple proton transfers at low temperatures.
High Time Resolution Multifrequency EPR of Radical Pair Intermediates in Photosynthetic Reaction Centers: Structure Determination on a Nanosecond Time Scale
Authors: Link G. , Heinen U. , Berthold T. , Ohmes E. , Weidner J.-U. , Kothe G.
Published: February 2004

The primary steps of photosynthesis proceed via light-induced radical pairs as short-lived intermediates. In this paper we discuss novel coherence phenomena which can be observed for these species. It is demonstrated that the analysis of quantum beat oscillations in combination with multifrequency EPR and a magnetically oriented sample represents a powerful structural tool. We expect that this is of general interest, since the detailed structure of radical pair intermediates can be determined on a nanosecond time scale.
Pharmacokinetics of nifedipine in Taiwanese
Authors: Chien Shu‐Chen , Uang Yow‐Shieng , Lin Hsiu‐Yi , Hsu Kuang‐Yang
Published: February 2004

To elucidate the pharmacokinetics of nifedipine in Taiwanese, a retrospective review of nifedipine bioequivalence studies completed in Taiwan in the past 5 years was conducted. A total of 198 healthy male volunteers were given a single dose of a 10 mg Adalat® capsule as a reference drug after overnight fasting. Pharmacokinetic parameters derived from Adalat® administration were calculated by non‐compartmental analysis with the WinNonlin program. After oral administration of an immediate‐release dosage form of a 10 mg nifedipine capsule to Taiwan residents, a skewed distribution with no clear evidence of bimodality of pharmacokinetic parameters was observed. The mean Cmax was 143.12±53.48 ng/ml, the mean AUC was 293.77±115.62 ng·h/ml, the mean T1/2 was 3.08±1.61 h, and the median value of Tmax was 0.61 h. Compared with other published studies, the Cmax and AUC of nifedipine after 10 mg administration were significantly higher in Taiwanese than in British and American subjects. However, the Cmax and AUC were similar to those of Indian and Mexican subjects. According to the antimode of AUC distribution of 22.5 ng·h/ml/mg proposed by Kleinbloesem, 69.7% of Taiwanese can be categorized as slow metabolizers. Based on the results in this study, the majority of Taiwanese show lower activity of nifedipine metabolism. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the perspectives of capillary electrophoresis modes for the determination of morphine in human plasma without sample pretreatment
Authors: Emara Samy , Darwish Ibrahim , Youssef Diaa , Masujima Tsutomu
Published: February 2004

Screening and conﬁrmation of drugs of abuse in body ﬂuids are important for the medicinal treatment and form the legal basis of court judgments. A fast and precise identiﬁcation of toxic substances is necessary. Morphine was determined in human plasma by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) and micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MECC) using sample stacking mode. The electrophoretic separation was performed in an uncoated fused‐silica capillary, 70 cm long to the detector, with an additional 10 cm to the cathode (75 µm i.d. and 360 µm o.d.). The UV absorbance detection was set at 190 nm. The electrophoretic buffers were prepared from 60 to 300 mm disodium tetraborate decahydrate, pH 10.5. Sodium dodecyl sulfate was added to the ﬁnal solution in a concentration of 60 mm for MECC. All electrophoretic separations were carried out at 10 kV and the capillary temperature was ambient (25°C). A linear calibration graph was obtained in the concentration range studied (50–5000 ng/mL). Several samples of drug‐free plasma were checked for potential endogenous interference and the results showed no interference from the endogenous components, which co‐migrated with morphine. As little as 50 ng/mL of morphine could be successfully analyzed by MECC in the concentration mode with acceptable precision. It is possible to determine morphine directly in plasma at therapeutic concentrations. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and validation of a hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometric method for the analysis of paroxetine in human plasma
Authors: Naidong Weng , Eerkes Angela
Published: February 2004

A sensitive, simple, fast and rugged hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HILIC‐MS/MS) method for the determination of paroxetine was developed and validated over curve range 0.050–50 ng/mL using only 0.4 mL plasma. This is the ﬁrst published LC‐MS/MS method and the low limit of quantitation of this method is 10‐fold lower than previously published methods. A simple liquid–liquid extraction method using methyl‐tert butyl ether (MTBE) as the extraction solvent was used to extract paroxetine and the internal standard (IS) fentanyl‐d5 from plasma. The extract was evaporated to dryness, reconstituted and injected onto a silica column using a low aqueous–high organic mobile phase. The chromatographic run time was 2.0 min per injection, with retention times of 1.1 and 1.2 min for paroxetine and IS, respectively. The detection was by monitoring paroxetine at m/z 330 → 192 and IS at m/z 342 → 188, respectively. The inter‐day precision and accuracy of the quality control (QC) samples were <5.0% relative standard deviation (RSD) and <2.9% relative error (RE). This method can be used for supporting therapeutical drug monitoring and pharmacokinetic or drug–drug interaction studies. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐performance liquid chromatographic determination of Levetiracetam in human plasma: comparison of different sample clean‐up procedures
Authors: Pucci Vincenzo , Bugamelli Francesca , Mandrioli Roberto , Ferranti Anna , Kenndler Ernst , Raggi Maria Augusta
Published: February 2004

An accurate and precise high‐performance liquid chromatographic method using diode array detection for the determination of the novel antiepileptic, Levetiracetam, has been developed. Three clean‐up procedures for the analysis of Levetiracetam in human plasma were implemented and evaluated, namely solid‐phase extraction, deproteinization by addition of organic solvents and formation of insoluble salts. Adenosine was used as the internal standard for all three sample pretreatment procedures. Among the several cartridges used for solid‐phase extraction, the hydrophilic–lypophilic balance (Oasis® HLB) phase provides the best extraction yield of Levetiracetam, together with high precision. With the two other clean‐up procedures involving plasma deproteinization by addition of methanol or zinc sulphate, lower sensitivity and precision of the assays were obtained. However, they are cheaper and faster when compared with the solid‐phase extraction procedure. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in human plasma by capillary zone electrophoresis
Authors: Teshima Daisuke , Otsubo Kaori , Makino Kazutaka , Itoh Yoshinori , Oishi Ryozo
Published: February 2004

A capillary electrophoretic method for the simultaneous determination of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in plasma was developed. Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim extracted from human plasma with ethyl acetate were analyzed at 20 kV and 25°C using 15 mm phosphate buffer (pH 6.2) as the electrolyte. The detection was by UV at 220 nm. The run time was 8.0 min and the limit of quantiﬁcation was 10.00 µg/mL for sulfamethoxazole and 2.00 µg/mL for trimethoprim. The recovery was >99% for both compounds. This method enabled the detection of sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim in plasma of patients after oral ingestion of their combined formulation. The present simple and rapid method is applicable to drug monitoring in immunocompromised patients who are taking the combined formulation of these compounds for the treatment or prophylaxis of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An isocratic HPLC method for the quantitation of eicosanoids in human platelets
Authors: Moraes Leonardo A. , Giner Rosa M. , Paul‐Clark Mark J. , Perretti Mauro , Perrett David
Published: February 2004

We describe here a modiﬁed protocol for the simultaneous quantiﬁcation of speciﬁc eicosanoids formed during stimulation of human platelets in vitro with adenosine diphosphate. The eicosanoids thromboxane B2 (TXB2), arachidonic acid (AA), 12‐R‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12‐R‐HETE), 12‐S‐hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid (12‐S‐HHTrE) and the internal standard prostaglandin B1 (PGB1) were extracted from human platelets by liquid–liquid extraction using ethyl acetate. This was followed by derivatization and ﬂuorescent detection prior to analysis by reversed phase liquid chromatography. The highperformance liquid chromatographic method consisted of ODS reversed‐phase column (3 µm) and a mobile phase of acetonitrile–water (85:15). TXB2 and AA plasma calibration curves were linear between 6.25 and 125 ng mL−1 (r2 > 0.997), whereas for 12‐R‐HETE and 12‐S‐HHTrE the curves were linear between 5.0 and 40 ng mL−1 (r2 > 0.998). All calibration curve standards had <15% CV (coefﬁcient of variation) and between‐run precision, and the percentage relative deviation for replicate (n = 6) quality controls was less than 5.5%. The method was adapted to allow the screening of drugs that may affect either one or both of the lipoxygenase and cyclo‐oxygenase pathways. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantum mechanical considerations on the algebraic structure of central molecular chirality
Authors: Capozziello Salvatore , Lattanzi Alessandra
Published: February 2004

The chiral algebra of tetrahedral molecules, derived from Fischer's projections, is discussed in the framework of quantum mechanics. A “quantum chiral algebra” is obtained whose operators, acting as rotations or inversions, commute with the Hamiltonian of the system. It is shown that energy and chirality eigenstates are strictly related through the Heisenberg relations, while chirality operators “conserve” parity eigenstates. Chirality 16: 162–167, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multicenter Phase II study of estramustine phosphate plus weekly paclitaxel in patients with androgen‐independent prostate carcinoma
Authors: Vaughn David J. , Brown Archie W. , Harker W. Graydon , Huh Sang , Miller Lance , Rinaldi David , Kabbinavar Fairooz
Published: February 2004

BACKGROUND

The current study determined the efficacy and toxicity of weekly paclitaxel in combination with estramustine phosphate (EMP) in patients with androgen‐independent prostate carcinoma (AIPC).

METHODS

Patients with progressive AIPC received 90 mg/m2 paclitaxel by 1‐hour intravenous infusion weekly for 3 weeks, followed by a 1‐week treatment rest. Patients received 140 mg EMP orally 3 times daily on the day before, the day of, and the day after paclitaxel administration. Patients received 1 mg warfarin daily to prevent thromboembolism.

RESULTS

Sixty‐six patients with progressive AIPC received treatment at 29 centers. Forty‐two percent of patients had a 50% decline in prostate‐specific antigen (PSA; 95% confidence interval [CI], 30–54%). For 26 patients with bidimensionally measurable disease, the objective response rate was 15% (95% CI, 1–30%). The median time to disease progression was 6.3 months, and the median time to PSA progression was 11.4 months. The median survival period was 15.6 months. Grade 3–4 toxicities were uncommon and included thromboembolism (8%), anemia (3%), neutropenia (3%), and peripheral neuropathy (2%). There was one treatment‐related death.

CONCLUSIONS

This regimen of EMP plus weekly paclitaxel was an active and well tolerated treatment for patients with AIPC. Cancer 2004;100:746–50. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Intensive sequential chemotherapy with hematopoietic growth factor support for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Costello Régis T. , Zerazhi Hacène , Charbonnier Aude , de Colella Jean‐Marc Schiano , Alzieu Claude , Poizot‐Martin Isabelle , Cohen Rolande , Bardou Valérie‐Jeanne , Xerri Luc , Olive Daniel , Nezri Meyer , Lepeu Gérard , Gastaut Jean‐Albert
Published: February 2004

BACKGROUND

Optimal treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐associated non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) has yet to be defined, because chemotherapy could exacerbate immunodeficiency, with subsequent adverse effects for patients.

METHODS

The authors investigated the feasibility of an intensive chemotherapy regimen for HIV‐associated NHL. Thirty‐eight patients were treated with a first course of cyclophosphamide (Cy), vincristine, and prednisone; followed by 3 courses of high‐dose Cy (2000 mg/m2), doxorubicin (Doxo; 50 mg/m2), vincristine, and prednisone (modified high‐dose CHOP); 1 course of high‐dose methotrexate (MTX; 8000 mg/m2); and 1 course of high‐dose cytarabine (8000 mg/m2). Radiotherapy was added to the treatment regimen for patients with bulky disease or residual tumor. Chemotherapy was administered in conjunction with granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor and antiretroviral therapy.

RESULTS

Patients received 91.5%, 93%, 66%, and 63% of the scheduled doses of Cy, Doxo, MTX, and cytarabine, respectively. The complete response rate was 60.5%, with a total response rate of 79%. The 40‐month overall survival rate was 43%, the disease‐free survival rate was 65%, and the recurrence‐free survival rate was 39%. Both an International Prognostic Index score of 0 or 1 and Burkitt‐type histology had positive effects on survival, whereas CD4‐positive lymphocyte counts, viral burden, and previous highly active antiretroviral therapy did not. CD4‐positive T lymphocyte levels decreased from 0.197 ± 0.156 ×109/L before treatment to 0.152 ± 0.1 ×109/L at 6 months after the end of treatment. A decrease in viral load, from 380,000 ± 785,000 copies/mL before treatment to 25,000 ± 43,000 copies/mL at 6 months after the end of treatment, also was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study indicate that intensive chemotherapy is effective and tolerable for patients with HIV‐associated NHL. Cancer 2004;100:667–76. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Effect of breast‐conserving therapy versus radical mastectomy on prognosis for young women with breast carcinoma
Authors: Kroman Niels , Holtveg Helle , Wohlfahrt Jan , Jensen Maj‐Britt , Mouridsen Henning T. , Blichert‐Toft Mogens , Melbye Mads
Published: February 2004

BACKGROUND

Among middle‐aged and older women with early breast carcinoma, breast‐conserving therapy (BCT) has been shown to have an effect on survival that is similar to that of modified radical mastectomy (RM). Nonetheless, it remains to be established whether BCT also is the optimal treatment option for early breast carcinoma in young women, because these women generally have more aggressive disease and a higher frequency of local recurrence compared with older women.

METHODS

We investigated a cohort of 9285 premenopausal women with primary breast carcinoma who were age < 50 years at diagnosis. These women were identified from a population‐based Danish breast carcinoma database containing detailed information on patient and tumor characteristics, predetermined treatment regimens, and survival.

RESULTS

In total, 7165 patients (77.2%) were treated with RM, and 2120 patients (22.8%) were treated with BCT. We calculated the relative risk of death within the first 10 years after diagnosis according to surgical treatment and age, both before and after adjustment for known prognostic factors. No increased risk of death was observed among women who received BCT compared with women who underwent RM, regardless of age at diagnosis (< 35 years, 35–39 years, 40–44 years, or 45–49 years), despite the increased risk of local recurrence among young women. Restricting the analysis to women with small tumors (size < 2 cm) yielded similar results.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite having a higher rate of local recurrence, young women with breast carcinoma who receive BCT are similar to young women treated with RM in terms of survival. Cancer 2004;100:688–93. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
Breast carcinoma survival in Europe and the United States
Authors: Sant Milena , Allemani Claudia , Berrino Franco , Coleman Michel P. , Aareleid Tiiu , Chaplain Gilles , Coebergh Jan Willem , Colonna Marc , Crosignani Paolo , Danzon Arlette , Federico Massimo , Gafà Lorenzo , Grosclaude Pascale , Hédelin Guy , Macè‐Lesech Josette , Garcia Carmen Martinez , Møller Henrik , Paci Eugenio , Raverdy Nicole , Tretarre Brigitte , Williams Evelyn M. I. ,   European Concerted Action on Survival and Care of Cancer Patients (EUROCARE) Working Group
Published: February 2004

BACKGROUND

Breast carcinoma survival rates were found to be higher in the U.S. than in Europe.

METHODS

Multiple regression analysis of breast carcinoma survival rates among women diagnosed between 1990 and 1992 was performed using clinical data from population‐based case series from the Surveillance, Epidemiogy, and End Results (SEER) program (13,172 women) and the European Concerted Action on survival and Care of Cancer Patients (EUROCARE) project (4478 women).

RESULTS

Early‐stage tumors (T1N0M0) were more frequent in the SEER data (41% of cases) than in the EUROCARE data (29%). In the SEER data, early tumors were more frequent in women age ≥ 65 years (43%) than in younger women (38%), whereas the reverse was true in the European data (25% vs. 31%). In both case series, > 90% of women underwent surgery and 81–82% underwent lymphadenectomy, but the number of axillary lymph nodes evaluated was higher in the SEER data than in the EUROCARE data. The 5‐year survival rate was higher in the U.S. case series (89%) than in the European series (79%). This differential was observed for each stage category evaluated: early (T1N0M0), large lymph node‐negative (T2–3N0M0), lymph node‐positive (T1–3N+M0), locally advanced (T4M0), and metastatic (M1) tumors. The overall relative excess risk (RER) of death was significantly higher (RER, 1.37; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.25–1.50) among European women compared with U.S. women (referent group). Adjustment for stage, age, surgery, and the number of lymph nodes evaluated explained most of the excess risk (RER, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.98–1.17).

CONCLUSIONS

Transatlantic differences in the 5‐year survival rates for women diagnosed with breast carcinoma between 1990 and 1992 were attributable mainly to differences in stage of disease. Resources should be invested to achieve earlier diagnosis of breast carcinoma in Europe, especially for elderly women. Cancer 2004;100:715–22. © 2003 American Cancer Society.
A novel method for automated grid generation of ice shapes for local‐flow analysis
Authors: Ogretim Egemen , Huebsch Wade W.
Published: February 2004

Modelling a complex geometry, such as ice roughness, plays a key role for the computational flow analysis over rough surfaces. This paper presents two enhancement ideas in modelling roughness geometry for local flow analysis over an aerodynamic surface. The first enhancement is use of the leading‐edge region of an airfoil as a perturbation to the parabola surface. The reasons for using a parabola as the base geometry are: it resembles the airfoil leading edge in the vicinity of its apex and it allows the use of a lower apparent Reynolds number. The second enhancement makes use of the Fourier analysis for modelling complex ice roughness on the leading edge of airfoils. This method of modelling provides an analytical expression, which describes the roughness geometry and the corresponding derivatives. The factors affecting the performance of the Fourier analysis were also investigated. It was shown that the number of sine–cosine terms and the number of control points are of importance. Finally, these enhancements are incorporated into an automated grid generation method over the airfoil ice accretion surface. The validations for both enhancements demonstrate that they can improve the current capability of grid generation and computational flow field analysis around airfoils with ice roughness. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Verification of Euler/Navier–Stokes codes using the method of manufactured solutions
Authors: Roy C. J. , Nelson C. C. , Smith T. M. , Ober C. C.
Published: February 2004

The method of manufactured solutions is used to verify the order of accuracy of two finite‐volume Euler and Navier–Stokes codes. The Premo code employs a node‐centred approach using unstructured meshes, while the Wind code employs a similar scheme on structured meshes. Both codes use Roe's upwind method with MUSCL extrapolation for the convective terms and central differences for the diffusion terms, thus yielding a numerical scheme that is formally second‐order accurate. The method of manufactured solutions is employed to generate exact solutions to the governing Euler and Navier–Stokes equations in two dimensions along with additional source terms. These exact solutions are then used to accurately evaluate the discretization error in the numerical solutions. Through global discretization error analyses, the spatial order of accuracy is observed to be second order for both codes, thus giving a high degree of confidence that the two codes are free from coding mistakes in the options exercised. Examples of coding mistakes discovered using the method are also given. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A stabilized finite element procedure for turbulent fluid–structure interaction using adaptive time–space refinement
Authors: de Sampaio Paulo A. B. , Hallak Patrícia H. , Coutinho Alvaro L. G. A. , Pfeil Michéle S.
Published: February 2004

This paper presents our effort to addressing fluid–structure interaction (FSI) problems by means of computational mechanics. A stabilized finite element formulation is used to solve the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations written in primitive variables. The structure is modelled using rigid‐body dynamic equations solved using a Runge–Kutta method. The distinctive feature of our approach is the combination of large eddy simulation (LES)—based on implicit turbulence modelling—with time–space adaptive techniques in arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian co‐ordinates (ALE). Three representative numerical examples are presented. The first one is the simulation of turbulent vortex shedding around a fixed obstacle, comparing our two‐dimensional (2D) LES results with experiments and more refined three‐dimensional (3D) numerical solutions. The second example presents an ALE computation with moving boundaries, where we were able to detect the lock‐in phenomenon for an oscillating cylinder driven by periodic vortex shedding. Our final example is the FSI problem associated to the flow around a dominant central span section of the Rio‐Niterói bridge, where we compare our results with experiments performed in a wind tunnel. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating the effects of the supply voltage on the tuning range of a 10‐GHz VCO in 0.18‐μm CMOS technology
Authors: Cabuk A. , Yeo K. S. , Ma J. G. , Do M. A.
Published: February 2004

The design of a 10‐GHz voltage‐controlled oscillator (VCO) for synchronous optical network (SONET) applications is presented in this paper. The circuit is fabricated in 0.18‐μm RF CMOS process and it has a phase noise of −95 dBc/Hz at 1‐MHz offset and a very low power consumption of 2.5 mW from a 1.8‐V supply, excluding the output buffers. The effect of supply voltage on the VCO tuning range and the ways to optimize VCO operation in the SONET system are also investigated. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 40: 448–451, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20002
A novel equivalent circuit model for two‐layered spiral inductor with eddy‐current effect in the substrate
Authors: Ooi Ban‐Leong , Xu Dao‐Xian
Published: February 2004

In this paper, an improved two‐layered spiral inductor lumped‐element circuit model, which takes into account the effect of eddy current within the silicon substrate, is proposed. Physical explanation on the modifications of the circuit is given. Compared to the conventional model, our proposed model provides better agreement between the simulated and measured responses for a sample of circular spiral inductors fabricated using silicon substrate. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 40: 484–487, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20011
Determining the scattered field of dense particles using recursive algorithms
Authors: Meiners Christian , Psilopoulos Jannis , Jacob Arne F.
Published: February 2004

Some common and fast recursive methods for solving the scattering problem of many randomly distributed particles are reviewed. The particles are characterized by means of a T‐matrix. The useful range of these algorithms is discussed with respect to the number of scatterers and the packing density. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 40: 523–529, 2004; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20023
A New Navigation Method for an Automatic Guided Vehicle
Authors: Wuwei Chen , Mills James K. , Wenwu Shi
Published: February 2004

This paper presents a new navigation method for an automatic guided vehicle (AGV). This method utilizes a new navigation and control scheme based on searching points on an arc. Safety measure indices are defined and are generated from the output of a fuzzy neural network which define the actions the AGV is to take when in the presence of obstacles. The proposed algorithm integrates several functions required for automatic guided vehicle navigation and tracking control and it exhibits satisfactory performance when maneuvering in complex environments. The automatic guided vehicle with this navigation control system not only can quickly process environmental information, but also can efficiently avoid dynamic or static obstacles, and reach targets safely and reliably. Extensive simulation and experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness and correct behavior of this scheme. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spatial velocity profile changes along the cord in normal human fetuses: can these affect Doppler measurements of venous umbilical blood flow?
Authors: Pennati G. , Bellotti M. , de Gasperi C. , Rognoni G.
Published: February 2004

Objective

Several studies have assumed a parabolic velocity profile through the umbilical vein (UV) to derive the mean spatial velocity that is indispensable for flow rate calculations. However, the structure and arrangement of the umbilical cord suggest that velocity profiles may vary. The aim of this study was to evaluate UV spatial flow velocity profiles at different sites along the umbilical cord.

Methods

Ten singleton pregnancies with a gestational age between 26 and 34 weeks were included in the study. Ultrasound equipment with an inbuilt function for analysis of the spatial velocity profile along a line located in a fixed plane was used to obtain UV velocity profiles. Velocity profiles were obtained at the placental insertion and in a free intra‐amniotic loop of the cord. Two‐dimensional (2D) velocity distribution coefficients were evaluated as ratios between mean and maximum velocities along the investigated lines.

Results

2D velocity distribution coefficients at the placental insertion (0.85 ± 0.03) were significantly higher (P < 0.00001) than those obtained from a free loop of cord (0.76 ± 0.03). Values indicated that velocity profiles are approximately flat at the placental insertion and become more parabolic moving downstream. Moreover, profiles become skewed in association with cord curvature and show peculiar biphasic shapes immediately downstream from the placenta.

Conclusions

Flow velocity profiles in the UV are not perfectly parabolic and modify along the cord. These characteristics may affect the evaluation of UV blood flow rate. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative three‐dimensional sonographic assessment of pelvic blood after transvaginal ultrasound‐guided oocyte aspiration: factors predicting risk
Authors: Shalev J. , Davidi O. , Fisch B.
Published: February 2004

Objectives

To evaluate the fluid volume in the pelvis immediately and 3–5 days after transvaginal ultrasound‐guided oocyte aspiration (TOAS) and to identify predictive factors for intraperitoneal bleeding.

Methods

This was a prospective study of 83 infertile women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation followed by TOAS and embryo transfer (ET). Pelvic blood volume was measured by three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound examination 3–5 h after TOAS (post‐TOAS), and prior to ET (2–3 days after TOAS; pre‐ET). Pelvic blood volume was then correlated with the following procedure‐related variables: day of hCG administration: number and diameter of ovarian follicles, endometrial thickness, serum estradiol levels; day of TOAS: number of retrieved oocytes, patient's perceived pain (Likert scale), duration of TOAS, diameters (using two‐dimensional (2D) ultrasound) and 3D volume of pelvic fluid; day of ET: 2D diameters and 3D volume of pelvic fluid, perceived pain; pregnancy rate.

Results

The mean ± SD volume of blood measured by 3D ultrasound after TOAS and before ET was 12.94 ± 16.88 (range, 0–98.00) mL and 19.13 ± 17.84 (range, 0–70.20) mL, respectively. Blood volume in the pelvis correlated most strongly with number of oocytes retrieved (post‐TOAS: P < 0.01; pre‐ET: P < 0.05), followed by pain level (post‐TOAS: P < 0.01), number of follicles (post‐TOAS: P < 0.05) and endometrial thickness (post‐TOAS: P < 0.05). When all study variables were held constant, the number of oocytes and serum estradiol level proved to be significant predictors of the amount of fluid in the pelvis (post‐TOAS/pre‐ET: P < 0.01). If 2D ultrasound was used, the best predictor of fluid volume after TOAS was the width of the fluid scanned in the pelvis (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The amount of blood in the pelvis following TOAS in the present series was within acceptable clinical limits. The number of retrieved oocytes and pain after TOAS were found to be indicators of patients at risk of excessive bleeding. These findings have important implications for the improvement of postprocedural care. Copyright © 2004 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of vascular constriction on umbilical venous pulsation
Authors: Skulstad S. M. , Kiserud T. , Rasmussen S.
Published: February 2004

Objectives

Umbilical venous pulsation is an important sign of hemodynamic compromise, but is also found under normal physiological conditions. Mathematical modeling suggests that vascular compliance is a determinant for pulsation, and we tested this by studying velocity pulsation at three sites on the umbilical vein.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study of 279 low‐risk pregnancies (20–40 weeks' gestational age) blood flow velocity in the umbilical vein was determined before, within and after the umbilical ring in the fetal abdominal wall, and the incidence and magnitude of pulsation (the difference between the maximum and minimum velocity during a pulse, and pulsatility index) were noted. Based on the fact that the vessel cross‐sectional area is an important determinant of compliance, we measured the diameter and time‐averaged maximum velocity to reflect variation in diameter and compliance at the three sites.

Results

The incidence of umbilical venous pulsation was higher at the umbilical ring in the abdominal wall (242/279, 87%, 95% CI 82–90) than in the cord (43/198, 22%, 95%CI 16–27) or intra‐abdominally (84/277, 30%, 95% CI 25–36) (P < 0.001). When pulsation was observed intra‐abdominally, the pulsatility was not different from that at the umbilical ring (P = 0.16). However, the lowest pulsatility was found in the cord vein (P < 0.0001), where the largest vein diameter was found.

Conclusion

The high incidence of venous pulsation at the umbilical ring where diameter and compliance are low supports the suggestion that local compliance is an important factor influencing pulsation in fetal veins. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Crepe Bandage as an Alternative to the Esmarch Bandage for Upper Limb Exsanguination: A Volumetric Comparison Study
Authors: ALSHAWI A. K. , SCOTT T. D.
Published: February 2004

A study was carried out to compare the effectiveness of upper limb exsanguination using the Esmarch bandage, a crepe bandage and the Rhys-Davies exsanguinator. Upper limb volume changes were measured in ten volunteers using a water displacement method. The crepe bandage produced a mean volume reduction of 59 ml (range, 39–94), which was very similar to the Esmarch bandage, which achieved 63 ml (range, 42–101). This difference is negligible in practical terms. Both bandages were more effective than the Rhys-Davies exsanguinator, which reduced the volume by a mean of 28 ml (range, 11–54). It is our opinion that the use of the Esmarch bandage in hand surgery is unnecessary and recommend the crepe bandage as a safer alternative.
Radiographic Optimization of the Eaton Classification
Authors: DELA ROSA T. L. , VANCE M. C. , STERN P. J.
Published: February 2004

Thumb basal arthritis is evaluated using the Eaton classification. However, the shape and orientation of the trapezium do not allow easy visualization of this bone. The purpose of this study was to determine if the intra- and interobserver reliability of the Eaton classification could be improved using a combination of X-rays. Six hand surgeons independently evaluated 40 sets of X-rays. First, the X-rays were staged using the posterior–anterior and lateral views of the wrist, and then using just the Bett’s (Gedda’s) view. Subsequently, all three views were evaluated together. The process was repeated at least 1 week later. Intra- and interobserver reliability was measured using kappa statistics. Results show a trend toward increased reliability when the three views are used. Agreement between the stages using the posterior–anterior and lateral X-rays and the Bett’s view was only fair. With three views, intraobserver reproducibility is good while interobserver reliability is moderate.
Multidirectional kinematics of the glenohumeral joint during simulated simple translation tests: Impact on clinical diagnoses
Authors: Moore Susan M. , Musahl Volker , McMahon Patrick J. , Debski Richard E.
Published: February 2004

At the end ranges of motion, the glenohumeral capsule limits translation of the humeral head in multiple directions. Since the 6‐degree of freedom kinematics of clinical tests are commonly utilized to diagnose shoulder injuries, the objective of this study was to determine the magnitude and repeatability of glenohumeral joint kinematics during a simulated simple anteroposterior translation test in the anterior and posterior directions. A magnetic tracking system was used to determine the kinematics of the humerus with respect to the scapula in eight cadaveric shoulders. At 60° of glenohumeral abduction and 0° of flexion/extension, a clinician applied anterior and posterior loads to the humerus at 0°, 30°, and 60° of external rotation until a manual maximum (simulating a simple translation test) was achieved. Prior to each test, the reference position of the humerus shifted posteriorly 1.8 ± 2.0 and 4.1 ± 3.8 mm at 30° and 60° of external rotation, respectively. Anterior translation decreased significantly (p < 0.05) from 18.2 ± 5.3 mm at 0° of external rotation to 15.5 ± 5.1 and 9.9 ± 5.5 mm at 30° and 60°, respectively. However, no significant differences were detected between the posterior translations of 13.4 ± 6.4, 17.1 ± 5.0, and 15.8 ± 6.0 mm at 0°, 30°, and 60° of external rotation, respectively. Coupled translations (perpendicular to the direction of loading) at 0° (6.1 ± 4.0 and 3.8 ± 2.9 mm), 30° (4.7 ± 2.7 and 5.9 ± 3.1 mm), and 60° (2.3 ± 2.3 and 5.0 ± 3.5 mm) of external rotation were in the inferior direction in both the anterior and posterior directions, respectively. Based on the data obtained, performing a simulated simple translation test should result in coupled inferior translations and anterior translations that are a function of external rotation. The low standard deviations demonstrate that the observed translations should be repeatable. Furthermore, capsular stretching or injury to the anterior–inferior region of the capsule should be detectable during clinical examination if excessive coupled translations exist or no posterior shift of the reference position with external rotation is noted. © 2004 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Correlation between conformation and antibody binding: NMR structure of cross‐reactive peptides from T. cruzi, human and L. braziliensis
Authors: Soares M.R , Bisch P.M , Campos de Carvalho A.C , Valente A.P , Almeida F.C.L
Published: February 2004

The structure of peptides corresponding to the C‐terminal residues from Trypanosoma cruzi (R13), human (H13) and Leishmania braziliensis (A13) ribosomal proteins were determined using nuclear magnetic resonance. Although there is only one amino acid difference between them, the peptides present distinct structures in solution: R13 adopts a random coil conformation while H13 and A13 form a bend. Interaction of these peptides with polyclonal antibodies from chronic Chagas’ disease patients and a monoclonal antibody raised against T. cruzi ribosomal P2β protein was probed by transferred NOE. The results show that the flexibility of R13 is fundamental for the binding to the antibody.