bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Full Outline of UnResponsiveness Score and Glasgow Coma Scale in Predicting the Outcome of Children aged 3 to12 Years with Altered Level of Consciousness Admitted to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Pabbati Jayalakshmi , Ravikumar Banoth , Luqmaan Syed AbuTalha
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The commonly used Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score for assessing consciousness has several shortcomings, especially in intubated patients. Recently, the Full Outline UnResponsive Score (FOUR) has been validated as an alternative to the GCS due to its additional benefits in evaluating brainstem reflexes and respiratory patterns. The use of the FOUR score can overcome the shortcomings of the GCS and aid in prognosticating patients with altered sensorium. Aim: To compare the FOUR score with GCS score to find a better scoring system for predicting outcomes among children aged 3-12 years with non-traumatic causes of Altered Level Of Consciousness (ALOC) in the hospital. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted on a total of 100 children with ALOC in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Telangana, from December 2020 to November 2021. FOUR and GCS assessments were performed simultaneously within two hours of admission. For statistical analysis, continuous variables are expressed as mean±standard deviations. The predictive values of the GCS score and FOUR score were established using the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, by calculating the Area Under the Curve (AUC) with a 95% Confidence Interval (CI). Results: The mean age of the study population was 7.3±5.2 years, and the mean duration of hospital stay was 7.5±6.74 days. In-hospital mortality was 34%, and the survival rate was 66%. The mean FOUR score for in-hospital mortality and survival was 8.47±3.01 and 12.24±1.46, respectively (p-value <0.001). The mean GCS scores were 11.35±1.64 in survivors and 7.45 ±2.63 in non-survivors (p-value <0.001). A FOUR score of <10 was associated with higher mortality than a FOUR score of >10 (p<00.05). The Area Under Curve (AUC) for the FOUR score was 0.862 with a 95% CI (0.774 to 0.95) in the ROC curve (p-value <0.001), and for the GCS score, the AUC was 0.822 with a 95% CI (0.723 to 0.92) and p-value <0.001. The FOUR Score has a higher AUC than the GCS in the ROC curve, indicating that the FOUR Score has better discrimination than the GCS in outcome assessment. Conclusion: FOUR score and GCS score were comparable for predicting outcomes in children with ALOC. However, the FOUR score showed better discrimination than the GCS; hence, the FOUR score can be used as an alternative tool to the GCS for prognosis.
Endovascular Management of an Unusual Mycotic Aneurysm of the Inferior Mesenteric Artery: A Case Report
Authors: Sahitya Thandra , Mutnuru Phani Chakravarty , Gunturi Surya Ramachandra Varma
Published: February 2024

Mycotic or infected Aneurysms (MA) are rare and typically affect major arteries. However, infective causes (mycotic) resulting in the formation of aneurysms in the Superior Mesenteric Artery (SMA) and Inferior Mesenteric Artery (IMA), despite their substantial rarity, are often symptomatic and may present acutely. Hereby, the authors present a case of a 29-year-old male patient who presented with abdominal pain, fever, and generalised weakness. Contrast-enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) of the abdomen revealed peripherally enhancing hypodense collections with air foci along the subhepatic, peri-splenic, peri-gastric, bilateral paravertebral, and posterior pararenal spaces, extending to the lumbar region. Furthermore, multilobar saccular outpouching with irregular margins and soft-tissue thickening was observed, originating from the proximal IMA. Pigtail drainage was performed, and culture showed the growth of polymicrobial flora. Due to the irregularity of the aneurysm, with a high-risk of rupture, coil embolisation of the IMA aneurysm was carried out. The imaging characteristics of infected aneurysms should alert clinicians and radiologists to the diagnosis, enabling timely treatment, which may involve endovascular techniques.
Estimation of ABO Anti-A and Anti-B Agglutinin Titers among Blood Donors at a Tertiary Care Referral Teaching Hospital Blood Centre in Southern India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ravikanth C , Arun R , Babu B Suresh , Babu KV Sreedhar , Sandhya G , Prashanth S
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Transfusion of blood Group O and its components with high ABO antibody titers to non O recipients has been shown to cause acute transfusion reactions, especially in platelet transfusions, as platelets contain significant amounts of ABO antigen on their surface as well as Anti-ABO alloisogglutinins in plasma. Aim: To estimate the ABO Anti-A and Anti-B agglutinin titers among blood donors at a tertiary care referral teaching hospital blood centre. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Immunohaematology laboratory of the Department of Transfusion Medicine, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India, from March 2021 to June 2022. All blood donors presenting to the blood centre were screened for eligibility for blood donation. Donors who fulfilled the eligibility criteria as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and Rules, 1945 were included. Anti-A and Anti-B titers were determined by the conventional tube method with dilutions of 1 in 2, 1 in 4, 1 in 8, 1 in 16, 1 in 32, 1 in 64, 1 in 128, 1 in 256, 1 in 512, and 1 in 1024. A titer of <64 was considered as a low titer, while a titer of >64 was considered as a high titer. Results: A total of 399 donors were included in the study, with 393 (98.5%) being males and 6 (1.5%) being females. The mean age of the study population was 28.49 years. Among blood group A, the percentage of individuals with an IgM anti-B titer of <64 was 85.44% (88) and >64 was 14.56% (15), whereas in blood group B, IgM anti-A titers of <64 were 65.5% (93) and >64 were 34.5% (49). In blood group O, the percentage of individuals with <64 and >64 titers of IgM anti-A were 52.60% (81) and 47.40% (73), respectively, whereas for anti-B, <64 and >64 titers were 77.92% (120) and 22.08% (34), respectively. Conclusion: It is recommended that a database be maintained in all institutes by estimating antibody titers for every A, B, O blood group donors. Whole blood or platelets from group O donors with IgM Anti-A and Anti-B antibody titers <64 can only be transfused across the ABO barrier. As the majority of group A donors had titers <64, group A platelets may be transfused across the ABO barrier in emergency situations.
Evaluation of Different Varieties and Genotypes of Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) under Sodic Soil Condition of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Maurya Aman Kumar , Pratap Bhanu , Sonkar Abhishek , Tiwari Saurabh , Yadav Garima , Pratap Ravi , Patel Brijesh , Kumar Pradeep
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to assess the aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.) varieties and genotypes for their growth and development of fruits (flowering and fruiting), physical attributes and yield under the sodic soil condition of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. The evaluated varieties and genotypes had a significant variation for the recorded parameters. The maximum flowering duration among the varieties was recorded in BSR-1 (27 days) whereas, the minimum duration of flowering was observed in NA-6 (23 days) and Chakaiya (23 days). Among the selected varieties and genotypes, fruit weight, fruit length, and diameter were recorded maximum in genotype NA-25, and the maximum fruit drop at the maturity stage was found in BSR-1 (80.60%). The maximum yield (kg/plant) was recorded in NA-26 (80.35 kg/plant). The maximum fruit volume was recorded in NA-25 (54.2) with the maximum pulp weight (55.02g) and the pulp: stone ratio was recorded highest in NA-25 (28.10). The maximum specific gravity was recorded in Anand-1 (1.07).
South Cuidrach
Authors: Hardy Karen , Ballin Torben
Published: February 2024

A new site in north Skye has revealed evidence of human occupation from the Late Upper Palaeolithic as well as the Early and Late Mesolithic periods, suggesting repeated visits by humans for at least 5,000 years from the Late Glacial Interstadial through the Loch Lomond Readvance and up to the mid-Holocene, a time of dynamic climatic and sea-level change. South Cuidrach is one of several sites in the north of the Isle of Skye and around the Inner Sound with lithic (stone tool) evidence diagnostic of a human presence before the mid-Holocene. These sites currently represent a unique concentration of pre-Late Mesolithic sites in Scotland. The lithic evidence which forms the backbone of the cultural and temporal characterisation of the site at South Cuidrach is outlined here. This includes characteristic points and microliths, burins, cores and other items diagnostic of specific cultural groups. Additionally, it has become evident that Rum bloodstone, a raw material well known from the Late Mesolithic period in the region, may be absent before the Early/Late Mesolithic transition, with baked mudstone from Staffin in North Skye being the primary raw material used before this time. The need for detailed knowledge of the region’s lithic technology and typology is well illustrated here, as small details frequently reflect important chronological differences.
Company Merger and its Impact on Eligibility for Litigation
Authors: Jassim Dr. Saif Rashid Latif
Published: February 2024

Resorting to the judiciary is a right guaranteed by most constitutions, and it is organized according to procedural laws that guarantee whoever takes this path the integrity of the procedures. It is known that a judicial claim is made only through a lawsuit, which is preceded by a claim of the right. In order for the lawsuit procedures to take place in the manner prescribed by the law, the latter required the availability of a number of The conditions for accepting a lawsuit are litigation, eligibility, capacity, and other conditions. The lawsuit in the judicial claim is the right of every person to whom the law recognizes legal personality and thus enjoys the legal capacity that allows him to be a party to any legal relationship, and among these people is the company, and when we are before an existing company that has legal capacity, there are no problems with that company entering into the legal process. Any legal relationship, except that what is raised is in the event that an abnormal situation occurs in the life of the company that affects its eligibility, as is the case in a merger. Here we will be faced with a new company existing as a result of the merger of two companies with each other, but the end of the life of the company through the merger does not mean applying all the procedures. Regarding the termination of the company, we are faced with an abnormal situation of the end of the legal existence of the company, and this prompts us to examine this issue based on the impact of the merger on the eligibility for litigation of the merged company .
Distribution of radiographic osteoarthritis between the right and left hands, hips, and knees
Authors: Neame Rebecca , Zhang Weiya , Deighton Chris , Doherty Michael , Doherty Sally , Lanyon Peter , Wright Gary
Published: May 2004

Objective

To investigate whether radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) is asymmetric and greater on the right side than on the left side in the hands, hips, and knees.

Methods

Participants were 489 individuals with posteroanterior hand radiographs from a family study of nodal OA, 1,715 community‐derived individuals who had undergone intravenous urography with views of both hips, and 1,729 community‐derived individuals with weight‐bearing fully extended tibiofemoral (TF) joint and skyline patellofemoral (PF) joint radiographs. All radiographs were evaluated for global OA grade, osteophytes, and joint space narrowing (JSN). Minimum joint space width (JSW) was measured at the hip and knee. Odds ratios (ORs) for global OA on the right side versus the left side were calculated. Osteophytes and JSN were compared by Wilcoxon's signed rank test, and the JSW was compared by paired t‐test.

Results

Global OA was more prevalent on the right side at the distal interphalangeal joints (OR 1.57; 95% confidence interval 1.22, 2.02) and the TF joint (OR 1.24; 95% confidence interval 1.01, 1.52). Osteophyte scores for the fingers were greater on the right side, but JSN was symmetric. At the hip, there were no right–left differences in osteophytosis or JSN, but the JSW was smaller on the left. At the TF joint, the medial compartment was narrower and the lateral compartment wider on the right side, and osteophyte scores were greater on the right side. At the PF joint, there were no right–left differences in osteophytes, and for lone PF joint OA, there were no differences in JSN or the JSW.

Conclusion

This discordance in symmetry suggests that the relative importance of biomechanical factors in the pathogenesis of OA is site‐specific and may be discordant for cartilage and bone.
Basic calcium phosphate crystal–induced prostaglandin E2 production in human fibroblasts: Role of cyclooxygenase 1, cyclooxygenase 2, and interleukin‐1β
Authors: Morgan Maria P. , Whelan Linda C. , Sallis John D. , McCarthy Conor J. , Fitzgerald Desmond J. , McCarthy Geraldine M.
Published: May 2004

Objective

To elucidate the mechanism of basic calcium phosphate (BCP) crystal–induced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production in human foreskin fibroblasts (HFFs), to identify the signaling pathway involved in the induction of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) messenger RNA (mRNA) by BCP crystals, to examine the effect of BCP crystals on interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) mRNA expression, and to investigate the potential of phosphocitrate to abrogate the BCP crystal–induced effects.

Methods

PGE2 levels were quantified using a commercial enzyme immunoassay kit. COX‐2 and COX‐1 transcript levels were quantified using real‐time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Induction of IL‐1β and COX‐2 mRNA was examined by end‐point RT‐PCR. COX‐2 protein expression was assessed by Western blotting.

Results

PGE2 production measured 4 and 30 hours after BCP crystal treatment was higher in BCP crystal–treated (mean ± SEM 1,891 ± 273 pg/μg and 1,792 ± 233 pg/μg, respectively) than in untreated (88 ± 5 pg/μg and 205 ± 93 pg/μg, respectively) HFFs. The PGE2 produced after 4 hours was sensitive to inhibition with NS398, a selective COX‐2 inhibitor, implying that it was COX‐2 mediated, whereas the PGE2 produced at 30 hours could not be completely inhibited by NS398. Real‐time RT‐PCR demonstrated a 23‐fold increase in COX‐2 mRNA that was maximal at 4 hours, whereas analysis of mRNA for COX‐1 showed up‐regulation of transcript peaking at 24 hours poststimulation (1.75‐fold increase). The protein kinase C and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase signal‐transduction inhibitors bisindolylmaleimide I and LY294002, respectively, blocked BCP crystal–induced COX‐2 mRNA in HFFs. In addition, BCP crystals were found to up‐regulate the proinflammatory cytokine IL‐1β (maximal at 8 hours). The induction of both COX‐2 and IL‐1β by BCP crystals was attenuated when the cells were treated with phosphocitrate.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that BCP crystals may be an important amplifier of PGE2 production through induction of the COX enzymes and the proinflammatory cytokine IL‐1β.
Decreased reactive oxygen generation during H2O2 decomposition in the presence of samples from human rectal cancer
Authors: Kładny Józef , Lichszteld Krzysztof , Kołecki Janusz
Published: May 2004

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have generated a great deal of interest in the clinical field since experimental studies showed the involvement of these species in carcinogenesis. This paper reports the detection of ROS during the decomposition of H2O2 in the presence of samples obtained from tissues of 16 patients with rectal carcinoma (age 64 ± 9 years) operated on in the Division of Surgical Oncology of Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin (Poland). The samples were cut from the middle of the resected tumors and from the colonic mucosa (10 cm distant from the tumor and free of disease); they were processed and the supernatants, representing the soluble fraction, were used for measurements.

Various methods for measuring free radical activity of the examined samples were used, such as chemiluminescence, fluorescent probe 2′,7′‐dichlorodihydrofluorescein, spin trap 5,5‐dimethyl‐pyrroline‐1‐oxide and EPR, the spectrophotometrically examined formation of diformazan during reduction of the p‐nitroblue tetrazolium salt, and bleaching of p‐nitrosodimethylalanine.

A statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) was noticed in mean chemiluminescence ± standard error of the mean in the presence of the tumor samples (42.6 ± 7.3) in comparison to the control samples (234.6 ± 36.0). Significantly decreased generation of ROS from the decomposition of H2O2 in the presence of the tumor samples in comparison to the control samples was also observed when the above‐mentioned methods were used. Tumor samples had significantly lower superoxide dismutase activity (33 ± 4 U/mg protein) than controls (93 ± 14 U/mg, P < 0.001), which should contribute to a lower capacity of endogenous H2O2 production and therefore less ROS generation upon H2O2 decomposition.

We conclude that the tested samples have different redox properties; this supports a possible role of ROS activity during carcinogenesis. Moreover, we propose a new, simple, and sensitive chemiluminescent method, which might be effective in sample differentiation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 2004
Long‐Lived Charge‐Separated State Generated in a Ferrocene–meso,meso‐Linked Porphyrin Trimer–Fullerene Pentad with a High Quantum Yield
Authors: Imahori Hiroshi , Sekiguchi Yuji , Kashiwagi Yukiyasu , Sato Tohru , Araki Yasuyuki , Ito Osamu , Yamada Hiroko , Fukuzumi Shunichi
Published: May 2004

A meso,meso‐linked porphyrin trimer, (ZnP)3, as a light‐harvesting chromophore, has been incorporated for the first time into a photosynthetic multistep electron‐transfer model including ferrocene (Fc) as an electron donor and fullerene (C60) as an electron acceptor, to construct the ferrocene–meso,meso‐linked porphyrin trimer–fullerene system Fc‐(ZnP)3‐C60. Photoirradiation of Fc‐(ZnP)3‐C60 results in photoinduced electron transfer from both the singlet and triplet excited states of the porphyrin trimer, 1(ZnP)${{\ast \hfill \atop 3\hfill}}$ and 3(ZnP)${{\ast \hfill \atop 3\hfill}}$, to the C60 moiety to produce the porphyrin trimer radical cation–C60 radical anion pair, Fc‐(ZnP)3.+‐C60.−. Subsequent formation of the final charge‐separated state Fc+‐(ZnP)3‐C60.− was confirmed by the transient absorption spectra observed by pico‐ and nanosecond time‐resolved laser flash photolysis. The final charge‐separated state decays, obeying first‐order kinetics, with a long lifetime (0.53 s in DMF at 163 K) that is comparable with that of the natural bacterial photosynthetic reaction center. More importantly, the quantum yield of formation of the final charge‐separated state (0.83 in benzonitrile) remains high, despite the large separation distance between the Fc+ and C60.− moieties. Such a high quantum yield results from efficient charge separation through the porphyrin trimer, whereas a slow charge recombination is associated with the localized porphyrin radical cation in the porphyrin trimer. The light‐harvesting efficiency in the visible region has also been much improved in Fc‐(ZnP)3‐C60 because of exciton coupling in the porphyrin trimer as well as an increase in the number of porphyrins.
Evaluation of Chiral Recognition Ability of a Novel Uranyl–Salophen‐Based Receptor: An Easy and Rapid Testing Protocol
Authors: Dalla Cort Antonella , Murua José Ignacio Miranda , Pasquini Chiara , Pons Miquel , Schiaffino Luca
Published: May 2004

A novel member of a new class of chiral uranyl–salophen complexes has been synthesised. The chiral recognition ability of this receptor toward the enantiomers of two primary amines, a sulfoxide, and a quaternary ammonium chloride has been evaluated for the first time. The enantioselectivities obtained are encouraging. The NMR method developed for this purpose allows a fast, quantitative determination of the enantioselectivity of the host directly from its racemic mixture and could find application as a preliminary screening tool in the search for new receptors using combinatorial methods. The experiments carried out in this context demonstrated also that the activation barrier for the racemisation of such chiral uranyl–salophen receptors is much higher than the lower limit of 21 kcal mol−1 previously reported.
Analysis of the adaptor function of the LIM domain‐containing protein FHL2 using an affinity chromatography approach
Authors: El Mourabit Haquima , Müller Stefan , Tunggal Lucy , Paulsson Mats , Aumailley Monique
Published: May 2004

Containing four LIM domains and an N‐terminal half LIM domain, FHL2 has been predicted to have an adaptor function in the formation of higher order molecular complexes in the nucleus and the cytoplasm of cells. We expressed recombinant FHL2 in insect cells using the baculovirus system and used it to isolate direct or indirect interaction partners from the cytosolic fraction of fibroblasts by affinity chromatography. These were identified by their peptide mass fingerprints using MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. Cytoskeleton‐associated proteins present among the bound proteins were shown to co‐localise with FHL2 in cell lamellipodia by indirect immunofluorescence staining. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurotensin negatively modulates Akt activity in neurotensin receptor‐1‐transfected AV12 cells
Authors: Liu Feng , Yang Peiyi , Baez Melvyn , Ni Binhui
Published: May 2004

Neurotensin (NT) regulates a variety of biological processes primarily through interaction with neurotensin receptor‐1 (NTR1), a heterotrimeric G‐protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR). Stimulation of NTR1 has been linked to activation of multiple signaling transduction pathways via specific coupling to Gq, Gi/o, or Gs, in various cell systems. However, the function of NT/NTR1 in the regulation of the Akt pathway remains unknown. Here, we report that activation of NTR1 by NT inhibits Akt activity as determined by the dephosphorylation of Akt at both Ser473 and Thr308 in AV12 cells constitutively expressing human NTR1 (NTR1/AV12). The inactivation of Akt by NT was rapid and dose‐dependent. This effect of NT was completely blocked by the specific NTR1 antagonist, (S)‐(+)‐[1‐(7‐chloro‐4‐quinolinyl)‐5‐(2,6‐dimethoxyphenyl)pyrazol‐3‐yl)‐carbonylamino] cyclohexylacetic acid (SR 48527), but unaffected by the less active enantiomer ((R)‐(−)‐[1‐(7‐chloro‐4‐quinolinyl)‐5‐(2,6‐dimethoxyphenyl)pyrazol‐3‐yl)‐carbonylamino] cyclohexylacetic acid (SR 49711)), indicating the stereospecificity of NTR1 in the negative regulation of Akt. In addition, NT prevented insulin‐ and epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐mediated Akt activation. Our results provide insight into the role of NT in the modulation of Akt signaling and the potential physiological significance of Akt regulation by NT. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The possibilities of the quantum memory realization for short pulses of
light in the photon echo technique
Authors: Moiseev S A , Noskov M I
Published: May 2004

The possibilities of recording, storage and
reconstruction of short single photon wave packets in the photon
echo technique are analyzed. The influence of the photon field and
medium parameters on the quality and precision of the photon
quantum state reconstruction is theoretically studied.
Single mode Tm and Tm,Ho:LuAG lasers for LIDAR applications
Authors: Scholle K , Heumann E , Huber G
Published: May 2004

In this paper we report on diode pumped single mode
Tm:LuAG and Tm,Ho:LuAG lasers which are developed as master
oscillators for an airborne LIDAR system. Using a new fourfold
pump setup 51 mW of output power with a Tm(10%):LuAG laser were
reached at room temperature. The Tm(10%),Ho(0.4%):LuAG laser
proved to be more temperature sensitive than the Tm laser. 18 mW
and 30 mW of single mode laser output could be achieved at room
temperature and 0°C, respectively. In multi mode laser
operation 130 mW output power at room temperature (slope
efficiency 36%) were achieved.
Interpolation theory and first‐order boundary value problems
Authors: Everitt W. N. , Poulkou A.
Published: May 2004

This paper discusses the connection between Kramer analytic kernels derived from first‐order, linear, ordinary boundary value problems represented by self‐adjoint differential operators and one form of the Lagrange interpolation formula, and treats the dual formulation of the sampling process, that of interpolation. In following the kernel construction results obtained by the authors in a previous paper in 2002, the results in this successor paper complete the aimed project by showing that each of these Kramer analytic kernels has an associated analytic interpolation function to give the Lagrange interpolation series. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Efficacy of a smoking‐cessation intervention for elective‐surgical patients
Authors: Ratner Pamela A. , Johnson Joy L. , Richardson Chris G. , Bottorff Joan L. , Moffat Barbara , Mackay Martha , Fofonoff Doreen , Kingsbury Kori , Miller Clara , Budz Bernice
Published: May 2004

We tested an intervention to help smokers abstain (fast) from smoking before surgery, maintain abstinence postoperatively, and achieve long‐term cessation. A randomized experiment included 237 patients admitted for presurgical assessment who smoked. The intervention included counseling and nicotine replacement therapy. Treatment group participants (73.0%) were more likely to fast than were controls (53.0%): χ2(1, N = 228) = 8.89, p = .003, and more likely to be abstinent 6 months after surgery (31.2% vs. 20.2%). There was no significant difference in the abstinence rates at 12 months after surgery, χ2(1, N = 169) <.001, p = 1.00. Encouraging patients to fast from smoking before surgery and postoperative support are efficacious ways to reduce preoperative and immediate post‐operative tobacco use. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 27:148–161, 2004
Relationship between carbon dioxide transport, free volume and morphology of polyolefin‐based polyurethanes
Authors: Yang Yu‐Run , Wang Zhi‐Fen , Wang De‐Ning , Wang Bo , Hu Chun‐Pu
Published: May 2004

A series of polyurethane (PU) films, produced from toluene diisocyanate, 1,4‐butane diol and either hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB), hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene/acrylonitrile (HTBN) or hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene/styrene (HTBS), was synthesized by solution polymerization. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, and positron annihilation lifetime (PAL) spectroscopy were used to investigate the morphologies and free volumes of these polyolefin‐based polyurethanes. The free volumes were closely related to the morphologies of such PUs. HTBN‐based PUs showed the lowest degree of phase separation, the smallest fraction of free volume and smallest hole radius among the three types of polyolefin‐based PUs, while the HTPB‐based PUs displaying the largest values. The diffusion and permeation coefficients decreased with decreasing degree of phase separation and increasing content of hard segments. The transport data were in relation to the free volume and fitted the Fujita free‐volume model. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultrastructural localization of high‐affinity choline transporter in the rat neuromuscular junction: Enrichment on synaptic vesicles
Authors: Nakata Kazuko , Okuda Takashi , Misawa Hidemi
Published: May 2004

In cholinergic neurons, Na+‐ and Cl−‐dependent, hemicholinium‐3‐sensitive, high‐affinity choline uptake system is thought to be the rate‐limiting step in acetylcholine (ACh) synthesis. The system is highly regulated by neuronal activity; the choline uptake is increased by a condition in which ACh release is favored. Here we analyzed the ultrastructural localization of the high‐affinity choline transporter (CHT) in the rat neuromuscular junctions with two separate antibodies. The majority (>90%) of immunogold labeling of CHT was observed on synaptic vesicles rather than the presynaptic plasma membrane. Less than 5% of the gold‐silver particles were associated with the plasma membrane, and more than 70% of such particles were localized within or in close vicinity to presynaptic active zones. Our morphological data support the recent hypothesis that trafficking of CHT from synaptic vesicles to the plasma membrane couples neuronal activity and choline uptake. Synapse 53:53–56, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
NMDA receptor blockade attenuates locomotion elicited by intrastriatal dopamine D1‐receptor stimulation
Authors: Kreipke Christian W. , Walker Paul D.
Published: May 2004

Previous behavioral studies suggest that the striatum mediates a hyperactive response to systemic NMDA receptor antagonism in combination with systemic D1 receptor stimulation. However, many experiments conducted at the cellular level suggest that inhibition of NMDA receptors should block D1 receptor‐mediated locomotor activity. Therefore, we investigated the consequences of NMDA receptor blockade on the ability of striatal D1 receptors to elicit locomotor activity using systemic and intrastriatal injections of the NMDA antagonist MK‐801 combined with intrastriatal injections of the D1 full agonist SKF 82958. Following drug treatment locomotor activity was measured via computerized activity monitors designed to quantify multiple parameters of rodent open‐field behavior. Both systemic (0.1 mg/kg) and intrastriatal (1.0 μg) MK‐801 pretreatments completely blocked locomotor and stereotypic activity elicited by 10 μg of SKF 82958 directly infused into the striatum. Further, increased activity triggered by intrastriatal SKF 82958 was attenuated by a posttreatment with intrastriatal infusion of 1 μg MK‐801. These data suggest that D1‐stimulated locomotor behaviors controlled by the striatum require functional NMDA channels. Synapse 53:28–35, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Timed CCP compositionally embeds Argos and Lustre
Authors: Tini Simone
Published: May 2004

We prove that both the synchronous data-flow language Lustre restricted to types with finite values and the synchronous state-oriented language Argos are embedded in the synchronous paradigm Timed Concurrent Constraint Programming (tccp). In fact, for each of the two languages we provide a tccp language encoding it compositionally with respect to the syntax of programs and linearly with respect to the size of programs. Besides giving results of expressiveness for tccp, our encodings permit us to obtain a language tailored for programming reactive systems where both control handling aspects and data processing aspects are relevant.
An integrated framework for the performance analysis of asynchronous communicating stochastic processes
Authors: López Natalia , Núñez Manuel , Rubio Fernando
Published: May 2004

In this paper we present a design framework containing a process algebra and the concurrent functional programming language Eden. In order to study properties of a specification written in our process algebraic notation, we provide a translation mechanism to generate Eden programs. Once we have a translation, we may use the Eden tools to study the performance of the (simulation of the) system. In order to add expressiveness to our design language we use a very powerful process algebra. First, we allow the specification of delays induced by general random variables. We also consider value passing. Finally, the communication between concurrent processes is asynchronous. The usefulness of our framework is presented by two examples featuring all the characteristics of our process algebraic model, we give the corresponding translations, and we provide some performance measures obtained by using Eden tools.
Calmodulin bridging of IQ motifs in myosin‐V
Authors: Martin Stephen R. , Bayley Peter M.
Published: May 2004

Ca2+‐saturated calmodulin binds to double‐length IQ lever‐arm sequences from murine myosin‐V, forming a 1:1 “bridging” complex with very high affinity, (K
d<10 pM for double motifs, IQ34, IQ45 and IQ56). Such a 1:1 complex involves interaction of one calmodulin (CaM) molecule with two adjacent IQ‐motifs, providing a molecular mechanism for the observed Ca2+‐dependent CaM dissociation from the IQ‐region. Structural considerations suggest that formation of the 1:1 complex requires a severe distortion of the lever‐arm, potentially regulating functional motility. This would be consistent with a recent report of diverse, irregular shapes of the lever arm of myosin‐V induced by the presence of Ca2+.
Expression and biochemical analysis of the entire HIV‐2 gp41 ectodomain: determinants of stability map to N‐ and C‐terminal sequences outside the 6‐helix bundle core
Authors: Lay Chan-Sien , Wilson Kirilee A. , Kobe Bostjan , Kemp Bruce E. , Drummer Heidi E. , Poumbourios Pantelis
Published: May 2004

The folding of HIV gp41 into a 6‐helix bundle drives virus‐cell membrane fusion. To examine the structural relationship between the 6‐helix bundle core domain and other regions of gp41, we expressed in Escherichia coli, the entire ectodomain of HIV‐2ST gp41 as a soluble, trimeric maltose‐binding protein (MBP)/gp41 chimera. Limiting proteolysis indicated that the Cys‐591–Cys‐597 disulfide‐bonded region is outside a core domain comprising two peptides, Thr‐529–Trp‐589 and Val‐604–Ser‐666. A biochemical examination of MBP/gp41 chimeras encompassing these core peptides indicated that the N‐terminal polar segment, 521–528, and C‐terminal membrane‐proximal segment, 658–666, cooperate in stabilizing the ectodomain. A functional interaction between sequences outside the gp41 core may contribute energy to membrane fusion.
Cytosol‐derived proteins are sufficient for Arp2/3 recruitment and ARF/coatomer‐dependent actin polymerization on Golgi membranes
Authors: Chen Ji-long , Lacomis Lynne , Erdjument-Bromage Hediye , Tempst Paul , Stamnes Mark
Published: May 2004

The actin cytoskeleton has been implicated in protein trafficking at the Golgi apparatus and in Golgi orientation and morphology. Actin dynamics at the Golgi are regulated in part by recruiting Cdc42 or Rac to the membrane through a binding interaction with the coatomer‐coated (COPI)‐vesicle coat protein, coatomer. This leads to actin polymerization through the effector, N‐WASP and the Arp2/3 complex. Here, we have used reconstitution of vesicle budding to test whether Arp2/3 is recruited to membranes during the formation of COPI vesicles. Our results revealed that ARF1 activation leads to greatly increased Arp3 levels on the membranes. Coatomer‐bound Cdc42 and pre‐existing F‐actin are important for Arp2/3 binding. ARF1‐dependent Arp2/3 recruitment and actin polymerization can be reconstituted on liposomal membranes, indicating that no membrane proteins are necessary. These results show that activated ARF1 can stimulate Arp2/3 recruitment to Golgi membranes through coatomer, Cdc42 or Rac, and N‐WASP.
Chromatin from two classes of platyhelminthes display both protist H1 and higher eukaryote core histones
Authors: Galindo Mario , Varela Nelson , Espinoza Ingrid , Toro Gabriela Cecilia , Hellman Ulf , Wernstedt Christer , Galanti Norbel
Published: May 2004

Histones from the parasitic platyhelminthes, Echinococcus granulosus and Fasciola hepatica, were systematically characterized. Core histones H2A, H2B, H3 and H4, which were identified on the basis of amino acid sequencing and mass spectrometry data, showed conserved electrophoretic patterns. Histones H1, identified on the basis of physicochemical properties, amino acid composition and amino acid sequencing, showed divergence, both in their number and electrophoretic mobilities, between the two species and among other organisms. According to these data, core histones but not H1 histones, would be stabilized during evolution at the level of platyhelminthes.
Silastic Replacement of Metacarpal after Resection of Giant Cell Tumour. A Case Report
Authors: CHATTERJEE A. , DHOLAKIA D. B. , VAIDYA S. V.
Published: May 2004

Giant cell tumours are aggressive lesions, albeit benign. Lesions in the hand, especially those arising from metacarpals require resection with adequate margins and definitive structural reconstruction to ensure preservation of hand architecture, function and cosmesis. Almost all the described reconstructive procedures require a stump of tumour free metacarpal base after resection, for reconstruction of the metacarpal. This report describes replacement of the entire metacarpal with a silastic prosthesis, in a case of giant cell tumour involving the entire metacarpal head and shaft to within 7 mm of the base.
Forces Transmitted Along Human Flexor Tendons During Passive and Active Movements of the Fingers
Authors: POWELL E. S. , TRAIL I. A.
Published: May 2004

The in vivo forces in human digital flexor tendons were determined in 33 patients undergoing a carpal tunnel decompression surgery using a newly developed device. The tendons were tested in passive and active flexion, and flexing against resistance of up to 500 g. Forces in the range of 0.2 to 50 N were noted. Whilst the mean of these forces remained below the force normally required to dehisce a fresh modified Kessler repair, the range of values was such that we would only recommend early movement with great caution and under supervision.
Use of Bioabsorbable Osteofixation Devices in the Hand
Authors: WARIS E. , ASHAMMAKHI N. , KAARELA O. , RAATIKAINEN T. , VASENIUS J.
Published: May 2004

Bioabsorbable internal fixation by means of pins, tacks, screws and miniplates offers an alternative to metallic osteofixation for the stabilization of small bone fractures, osteotomies, ligament injuries and fusions in the hand. The advantages of using them include avoidance of metallic-implant-related long-term complications and a secondary removal operation. Currently the most commonly used devices are made of poly l-lactide (PLLA) and copolymers of polylactides (P(L/DL)LA) and polyglycolide (PLGA). In areas of mechanical stress, the use of ultra-high-strength self-reinforced devices is recommended. Biomechanical studies on fresh frozen bones have shown that the fixation rigidity achieved with self-reinforced devices approaches that of metallic osteofixation methods. The reliability of modern implants has been confirmed in several experimental and clinical studies.
Cellular and molecular characterization of a murine non‐union model
Authors: Choi P. , Ogilvie C. , Thompson Z. , Miclau T. , Helms J. A.
Published: May 2004

Purpose. We have developed a method to study the molecular and cellular events underlying delayed skeletal repair in a model that utilizes distraction osteogenesis.

Methods. The clinical states of delayed union and non‐union were reproduced in this murine model by altering distraction parameters such as the inclusion and exclusion of a latency phase and variations in the rate and rhythm of distraction. Radiographic, cellular, and molecular analyses were performed on the distraction tissues.

Results. Eliminating the latency period delayed bony union, but did not appreciably alter the extent of platelet endothelial cell adhesion marker (PECAM) immunostaining. Following elimination of a latency phase and a threefold increase in the rate of distraction, there was a further delay in bone regeneration and a higher rate of non‐union (60%). Instead of bone, the distraction gap was comprised of adipose or fibrous tissue. Once again, despite the rigorous distraction protocol, we detected equivalent PECAM staining within the distraction gap. In a minority of cases, cartilage and osseous tissues occupied the distraction gap likely by a prolonged process of endochondral ossification.

Conclusions. Here, we have altered the mechanical environment in such a way to reproducibly create delays in skeletal regeneration. These delays in skeletal tissue regeneration appear to develop even in the presence of endothelial cells, which suggests that mechanisms other than a disruption to the vascular network can account for some cases of non‐union. © 2004 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The administrative monopoly in China’s economic transition
Authors: Guo Yong , Hu Angang
Published: May 2004

Corruption in transition economies has become the very focus of many recent discussions on politics and economics. However, the existing research has not taken full account of the experience of the gradual transition countries, especially China, and the incentives for rent creation in the transition process. Based on existing studies in this field, this paper addresses a new category of corruption in transition economies. In the context of the rent seeking theory, the authors examine what they regard as a unique type of corruption in China—administrative monopoly (AM), and outline its essence, causes, forms, features, the scale of the rent created, and the dissipation of the rent.
Age of the Rockland tephra, western USA
Authors: Lanphere M.A. , Champion D.E. , Clynne M.A. , Lowenstern J.B. , Sarna-Wojcicki A.M , Wooden J.L.
Published: May 2004

The age of the Rockland tephra, which includes an ash-flow tuff south and west of Lassen Peak in northern California and a widespread ash-fall deposit that produced a distinct stratigraphic marker in western North America, is constrained to 565,000 to 610,000 yr by40Ar/39Ar and U–Pb dating.40Ar/39Ar ages on plagioclase from pumice in the Rockland have a weighted mean age of 609,000 ± 7000 yr. Isotopic ages of spots on individual zircon crystals, analyzed by the SHRIMP-RG ion microprobe, range from ∼500,000 to ∼800,000 yr; a subpopulation representing crystal rims yielded a weighted-mean age of 573,000 ± 19,000 yr. Overall stratigraphic constraints on the age are provided by two volcanic units, including the underlying tephra of the Lava Creek Tuff erupted within Yellowstone National Park that has an age of 639,000 ± 2000 yr. The basaltic andesite of Hootman Ranch stratigraphically overlies the Rockland in the Lassen Peak area and has40Ar/39Ar ages of 565,000 ± 29,000 and 565,000 ± 12,000 yr for plagioclase and groundmass, respectively. Identification of Rockland tephra in ODP core 1018 offshore of central California is an important stratigraphic age that also constrains the eruption age to between 580,000 and 600,000 yr.
Women, Gender and Ecclesiastical History
Authors: SHAW JANE
Published: May 2004

Outrageous women, outrageous god. Women in the first two generations of Christianity. By Ross Saunders. Pp. x+182. Alexandria, NSW: E. J. Dwyer, 1996. $10 (paper). 0 85574 278 X

Montanism. Gender, authority and the new prophecy. By Christine Trevett. Pp. xiv+299. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1996. £37.50. 0 521 41182 3

God's Englishwomen. Seventeenth-century radical sectarian writing and feminist criticism. By Hilary Hinds. Pp. vii+264. Manchester–New York: Manchester University Press, 1996. £35 (cloth), £14.99 (paper). 0 7190 4886 9; 0 7190 4887 7

Women and religion in medieval and Renaissance Italy. Edited by Daniel Bornstein and Roberto Rusconi, translated by Margery J. Schneider. (Women in Culture and Society.) Pp. x+334 incl. 11 figs. Chicago–London: The University of Chicago Press, 1996. (first publ. as Mistiche e devote nell'Italia tardomedievale, Liguori Editore, 1992). £39.95 ($50) (cloth), £13.50 ($16.95) (paper). 0 226 06637 1; 0 226 06639 8

The virgin and the bride. Idealized womanhood in late antiquity. By Kate Cooper. Pp. xii+180. Cambridge, Mass.–London: Harvard University Press, 1996. £24.95. 0 674 93949 2

St Augustine on marriage and sexuality. Edited by Elizabeth A. Clark. (Selections from the Fathers of the Church, 1.) Pp. xi+112. Washington, DC: The Catholic University of America Press, 1996. £23.95 (cloth), £11.50 (paper). 0 8132 0866 1; 0 8132 0867 X

Gender, sex and subordination in England, 1500–1800. By Anthony Fletcher. Pp. xxii+442+40 plates. New Haven–London: Yale University Press, 1995. £25. 0 300 06531 0

Empress and handmaid. On nature and gender in the cult of the Virgin Mary. By Sarah Jane Boss. Pp. x+253+9 plates. London–New York: Cassell, 2000. £45 (cloth), £19.99 (paper). 0 304 33926 1; 0 304 70781 3

‘You have stept out of your place’. A history of women and religion in America. By Susan Hill Lindley. Pp. xi+500. Louisville, KY: Westminster/John Knox Press, 1996. $35. 0 664 22081 9

The position of women within Christianity might well be described as paradoxical. The range of practices in the early Church with regard to women, leadership and ministry indicates that this was the case from the beginning, and the legacy of conflicting biblical texts about the role of women – Galatians. iii. 28 versus 1 Corinthians xi. 3 and Ephesians v. 22–3 for example – has, perhaps, made that paradoxical position inevitable ever since. It might be argued, then, that the history of Christianity illustrates the working out of that paradox, as women have sought to rediscover or remain true to what they have seen as a strand of radically egalitarian origins for Christianity which has been subsumed by the dominant patriarchal structure and ideology of the Church. The tension of this paradox has been played out when women have struggled to act upon that thread of egalitarianism and yet remain within Churches that have been (and, it could be argued, remain) ‘patriarchally’ structured.
Gregory the Great as ‘Apostle of the English’ in Post-Conquest Canterbury
Authors: HAYWARD PAUL
Published: May 2004

Offering a new interpretation of the sermon ‘De ordinatione beati Gregorii anglorum apostoli’, a text preserved in Eadmer's ‘personal manuscript’ (Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, MS 371), this article argues that the cult of St Gregory the Great was promoted by Archbishop Lanfranc (1070–89) and Archbishop Anselm (1093–1109) in order to undermine the pretensions to apostolic rank of St Augustine's Abbey, Canterbury. It draws attention to the existence of a hitherto unrecognised but major conflict over apostolic authority that took place in England after the Norman Conquest; a conflict that involved the king as well as Canterbury's most important churchmen. In so doing, this essay contributes, more generally, to our understanding of the roles that the cult of saints and its rhetorical structures played in battles over status and rank order.
The Two John Knoxes and the Justification of Non-Revolution: A Response to Dawson's Argument from Covenant
Authors: DOLFF SCOTT
Published: May 2004

In her influential article, ‘The two John Knoxes: England, Scotland and the 1558 tracts’, Jane Dawson proposes a new understanding of John Knox's (1558) doctrine of resistance. Knox, she contends, argues for political insurrection in England but only clerical reform in Scotland on the basis of a theological distinction: England is a covenanted nation, while Scotland is not. Yet a close reading of Knox's Appellation seems to suggest that he considers both England and Scotland to be covenanted nations at this time. As such the difference in Knox's advice regarding rebellion seems best explained by his distinction between various categories of covenant obligation, as well as among different political spheres and pragmatic conditions in which these obligations obtain.
Teaching ‘Correct’ Attitudes: an Anglican Emissary to Sweden and Finland in 1944
Authors: KETOLA HANNA-MAIJA
Published: May 2004

In autumn 1944, the British Ministry of Information sent one of its officials, the Revd Herbert M. Waddams, to Sweden and Finland. His task was to collect information about opinions in church circles in both countries and to try to persuade them to a more favourable attitude towards the Allies, especially the Soviet Union. Sweden had remained neutral throughout the war and Finland had just made peace with the Allies. Waddams's memoranda on the trip reveal how the assessment of the international situation by a representative of a British government ministry differed from that of churchmen in Sweden and Finland.