bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Cellular Response within the Rabbit Tendon Unit Following Tendon Injury
Authors: KAKAR S. , KHAN U. , McGROUTHER D. A.
Published: September 2003

The cellular changes in the epitenon, endotenon and synovial sheath were investigated in a rabbit model after a partial transverse laceration was made on the plantar aspect of the flexor digitorum profundus proximal to the synovial sheath (which was not injured). Fibroblasts, macrophages and mast cells within the epitenon, endotenon and synovial sheath were counted on electron micrographs. The epitenon and uninjured synovial sheath became engorged with fibroblasts and macrophages following injury. The number of synovial fibroblasts showed the greatest increase during the first week after injury, In comparison, the endotenon exhibited a delay in cellular response with initial apoptosis, as judged by positive P53 staining. However, hypercellular activity was seen within the endotenon at 12 weeks postoperatively.
A Prospective Study of Flexor Tendon Repair in Zone 5
Authors: YII N. W. , URBAN M. , ELLIOT D.
Published: September 2003

A prospective study of postoperative mobilization of flexor tendon repairs in zone 5 was conducted over a 2-year period between 1994 and 1996 using a controlled active motion (active extension - active flexion) regimen of mobilization. Fifty-two patients, who had a total of 151 flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) and 103 flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) divisions, were available for review at a mean follow-up of 10 months. Of the 161 fingers with division of one or both flexor tendons, 66% exhibited independent FDS function and 90% achieved good or excellent results of digital range of motion. No rupture of an FDP tendon repair occurred during the study period. The data allowed us to define a new method of classifying the results of treatment of these injuries in terms of the injured wrists as a whole and not simply as a series of isolated observations for each individual finger with divided flexor tendons. The results of recovery of independent FDS action and range of finger movement achieved for injuries in which the flexors of all four fingers had been divided indicate a statistically significant interdependence of injuries of finger flexors of adjacent fingers at the wrist. Multivariate analysis showed the presence of a “spaghetti wrist” injury to have a significant adverse effect on the recovery of the independent FDS action but not on the recovery of the digital range of motion.
“Venting” or Partial Lateral Release of the A2 and A4 Pulleys after Repair of Zone 2 Flexor Tendon Injuries
Authors: BEN I. KWAI , ELLIOT D.
Published: September 2003

The need for lateral release or “venting” of the A2 and A4 pulleys either to facilitate repair of the flexor tendon(s) or to allow free gliding of the repair(s) was examined in 126 consecutive zone 2 flexor tendon injuries within the tendon sheath and distal to the distal edge of the A2 pulley (zones 2A and 2B of Tang’s classification) in which at least one flexor tendon had been completely divided. This study showed that 81 (64%) of these repairs required venting of one or the other pulley. It was necessary to vent the A4 pulley between 10 and 100% of its length in 71 (56%) of the fingers and to vent the distal edge of the A2 pulley by 4 to 10 mm in 10 (8%) of the fingers.
Risk Factors and Prophylactic Tenosynovectomy for Extensor Tendon Ruptures in the Rheumatoid Hand
Authors: RYU J. , SAITO S. , HONDA T. , YAMAMOTO K.
Published: September 2003

The cases histories of 51 rheumatoid arthritis patients (58 hands) were examined retrospectively with respect to the incidence of tendon rupture. Factors that were associated with tendon rapture such as X-ray changes in the wrist joint and clinical findings of the hand preceding the tendon rupture were statistically analysed. In a separate study, prophylactic tenosynovectomy and wrist synovectomy were performed on 42 joints in 35 patients who had two or more risk factors. This group of patients was then analysed for subsequent tendon rupture and recurrent synovitis. The risk factors for the extensor tendon rupture in the dorsal wrist joint were found to be: dorsal dislocation of the distal ulna; a scallop sign on X-ray; and tenosynovitis persisting for at least 6 months. Prophylactic surgery effectively prevented rupture of the tendons in patients who had two or more risk factors for extensor tendon rupture.
Surgical Management after Doxorubicin and Epirubicin Extravasation
Authors: HEITMANN C. , DURMUS C. , INGIANNI G.
Published: September 2003

Doxorubicin and epirubicin are strong antineoplastic agents widely used in chemotherapy. One major complication of their use is skin sloughing after subcutaneous extravasation, the degree of which is often underestimated. Both drugs have a tendency to produce liquefying necrosis in soft tissue and chronic ulcers if extravasation occurs. Three cases of extravasation, their surgical treatment and final results are presented. In cases of doxorubicin and epirubicin extravasation it is very important to perform an early extensive surgical débridement with delayed closure to avoid-long hospitalization and disabling results.
The V-Y Palmar Flap
Authors: RIDER M. A. , RIAZ M. , SMALL J. O.
Published: September 2003

We describe a V-Y palmar flap that allows both skin advancement and scar lengthening, and which has proved useful in the treatment of Dupuytren’s disease.
Dorsal Chevron Flap for Exposure of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint
Authors: ERDMANN M. W. H. , SACH R. P.
Published: September 2003

We have used a dorsal V-flap, or chevron flap, to expose the proximal interphalangeal joint. A retrospective clinical study of its use in 16 patients over 5 years is presented, including indications, functional return of movement, and complications. Long-term follow-up showed an average range of active movement of 70° (range, 13–84°). Surgical exposure of the joint was better than other dorsal approaches and overall recovery of movement was not significantly compromised. Alternative surgical techniques such as the dorsal longitudinal split, dorsolateral split and palmar approach are compared in a group of 36 cases.
Scaphoid Nonunion with Avascular Necrosis of the Proximal Pole
Authors: BOYER M. I. , VON SCHROEDER H. P. , AXELROD T. S.
Published: September 2003

Scaphoid nonunion with avascular necrosis of the proximal pole remains a difficult problem. We have endeavoured to heal the fracture, restore scaphoid height and revascularize the proximal pole of the scaphoid by means of a vascularized dorsal interposition graft from the distal radius. The procedure has resulted in union of six of ten fractures. Fractures that healed had not been treated by a previous bone grafting procedure. Dissatisfaction was due to loss of motion in patients who had healed fractures, and pain in those patients with persistent non-unions.
Surgical Treatment of Congenital Metacarpal Synostosis of the Ring and Little Fingers
Authors: HORII E. , MIURA T. , NAKAMURA R. , NAKAO E. , KATO H.
Published: September 2003

Fifteen hands with congenital metacarpal fusions were treated operatively by osteotomy combined either with the use of a silicone block or a distraction device. The aim of the silicone block was to separate the fused metacarpals, but it was buried in the metacarpals at follow-up, with recurrence of fusion. By the distraction technique, 13 mm of lengthening was obtained. The average length of the little metacarpal was 88% of that of the long finger metacarpal. Both methods were effective in correcting the abduction deformity of the little finger by a mean of 34°, and increasing the range of motion of the metacarpophalangeal joint to 28° of active flexion. Although the distraction method took longer than the silicone block method, the final appearance of the hand was better.
An Unusual Case of Flexor Sheath Tenosynovitis
Authors: GATT R. , CUSHIERI P. , SCIBERRAS C.
Published: September 2003

We report a case of a flexor sheath tenosynovitis caused by Mycobacterium marinum.
Adhesion of Staphylococcus to orthopaedic metals, an in vivo study
Authors: Sheehan E. , McKenna J. , Mulhall K. J. , Marks P. , McCormack D.
Published: September 2003

This study describes a new model of biofilm study in rabbits. The primary focus of this study was to assess biofilm adhesion to orthopaedic metals in their first 48 h in a femoral intramedullary implantation model. Two previous inoculation methods i.e. that of pre‐ and direct inoculation were studied with two bacterial isolates namely Staphylococcus aureus and epidermidis, on titanium and stainless steel metallic implants. A method of sonication and log dilution/plating was used to assess biofilm bacteria adhering to implants. Silver coated metals were then compared with their respective control metals in the new model.

The direct inoculation model gave larger and more reproducible biofilm adhesion to implanted metals. Staphylococcus epidermidis shows lower adhesion ability to metals, and biofilms adhere in greater numbers to stainless steel over titanium.

Silver coated metals show no statistical difference over control metals when exposed to orthopaedic biofilms. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The compressive creep properties of normal and degenerated murine intervertebral discs
Authors: Palmer Erika I. , Lotz Jeffrey C.
Published: September 2003

Identifying mechanisms by which degeneration alters intervertebral disc material properties and biomechanical behavior is important for clarifying back pain risk factors as well as for evaluating the efficacy of novel interventions. Our goal was to quantify and characterize degeneration‐dependent changes in the disc's response to compression using a previously established murine model of disc degeneration. We performed compressive creep tests on normal and degenerated murine intervertebral discs and parameterized the biomechanical response using a previously established fluid‐transport model. Using a series of biochemical and histological assays, we sought to determine how biomechanical alterations were attributable to degeneration‐related changes in tissue morphology. We observed that with moderate degeneration, discs lost height (mean ± std. dev. of 0.44 ± 0.01 vs. 0.36 ± 0.01 mm, p < 0.0001), increased in proteoglycan content (31 ± 4 vs. 43 ± 2 μg/ml of extract, p < 0.0002), became less stiff (2.17 ± 0.66 vs. 1.56 ± 0.44 MPa, p < 0.053), and crept more. Model results suggested that the increased creep response was mainly due to a diminished strain‐dependent nuclear swelling pressure. We also noted that the model‐derived tissue properties varied with the applied load magnitude for both normal and degenerated discs. Overall, our data demonstrate that architectural remodeling stimulated by excessive loading diminishes the disc's ability to resist compression. These results are similar to degeneration‐dependent changes reported for human discs. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Osteoblast‐like cell adhesion to bone sialoprotein peptides
Authors: Rapuano B. E. , Wu C. , MacDonald D. E.
Published: September 2003

A number of studies have suggested that biomimetic peptides can be used in the design of a new generation of prosthetic implants to promote the successful biointegration of the implant materials. In the current study, the in vitro bioactivities of several peptides representing RGD (Arg‐Gly‐Asp)‐containing sequences of bone sialoprotein (BSP) toward an osteoblast‐like cell line (MC3T3‐E1) were examined to provide insight into the molecular basis of BSP's interaction with bone cells.

BSP residues 283–288, 281–290, 278–293 and 278–302 were coated on polystyrene surfaces in 96‐well non‐tissue (untreated) culture plates, and their osteoblast adhesive properties compared to intact BSP and fibronectin as positive controls. BSP peptides 278–302 and 278–293 were found to be the most potent in their adhesive activity, increasing the number of adherent cells to 350% of control levels at an added concentration of 1 μM. Since these two peptides were equivalent in potency, it is suggested that the region 294–302 beyond the RGD domain is not necessary for cell binding. In comparison, peptides 283–288 and 281–290 were only active at concentrations greater than 200 μM. 50–70% of the peptide‐stimulated adhesion was inhibited by the pretreatment of cell suspensions with solution phase RGD, suggesting that a portion of the peptides' adhesive effects was specific and integrin‐mediated, although other non‐RGD flanking regions were probably also involved in the mechanism of adhesion. Importantly, a modified BSP peptide, in which an aspartic acid residue at position 288 of the RGD sequence was replaced by a glutamic acid residue to form RGE, was completely inactive as a cell adhesion stimulus at concentrations up to 200 μM. Thus, despite the potential role of non‐RGD flanking regions, an intact RGD tripeptide was essential for all of the adhesive activity of the BSP peptides. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Differences in the fretting corrosion of metal–metal and ceramic–metal modular junctions of total hip replacements
Authors: Hallab Nadim James , Messina Carlo , Skipor Anastasia , Jacobs Joshua J.
Published: September 2003

The use of modular interlocking components is a central design feature of total joint replacements. In this investigation we hypothesized that clinically available ceramic–metal modular connections used in total hip arthroplasty release more metal through fretting corrosion than traditional metal–metal modular connections. This was investigated using an in vitro comparison of ceramic (zirconia, ZrO2) and metal (Co‐alloy) femoral‐head fretting upon Co‐alloy stem components. In vitro fretting corrosion testing consisted of potentiodynamic monitoring and analysis of metal release from zirconia and Co‐alloy 28 mm femoral heads with similar surface roughnesses (Ra = 0.46 μm) on identical Co‐alloy stems at 2.2 kN for 1 × 106 cycles at 2 Hz. In contrast to our original hypothesis, we found greater metal release (approximately 11‐fold increase in Co and 3‐fold increase in Cr) and potentiodynamic fretting of metal–metal modular junctions when compared to ceramic–metal. Potentiodynamic testing demonstrated that lower initial voltages (−266 < 153 mV), greater maximum voltage changes (116 > 56 mV, p < 0.05, t‐test) and voltage variability (3 > 0.5 mV, p < 0.05, t‐test) were associated with the open circuit potentials of Co‐alloy on Co‐alloy junctions when compared to zirconia on Co‐alloy junctions. In this study of a single total hip replacement stem and head design, zirconia heads mated with Co‐alloy stems produced less fretting than Co‐alloy heads mated with Co‐alloy stems. Although further studies are necessary with a variety of implant designs and under different experimental conditions, the evidence presented here should, in part, alleviate concerns of increases in fretting corrosion at modular junctions of ceramic–metal coupled components. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The radiographic study in the relationship of the glenohumeral joint
Authors: Takase Katsumi , Yamamoto Kengo , Imakiire Atsuhiro , Burkhead Wayne Zealous
Published: September 2003

Accurate reproduction of anatomic relationship is important in non‐constrained prosthetic arthroplasty. The accurate lateral glenohumeral offset, which indicates a parameter of the lever arm of the deltoid and supraspinatus muscles, is one of the most important elements in achieving the efficient shoulder functions after prosthetic reconstruction. However, to our knowledge, there has been no detailed study on the influence of minute changes in the neck shaft angle, within the normal range, on lateral glenohumeral offset. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between the neck shaft angle and various geometric measurement values in the glenohumeral joint.

Radiographs of 471 shoulders without osseous lesions in the glenohumeral joint and greater tuberosity were reviewed. There were 265 males and 206 females, and a mean age was 53.5 years old. The final diagnosis was impingement syndrome in 269 patients, rotator cuff tear in 147, and control group in 55 patients. Eight parameters were measured on true anteroposterior radiographs.

The lateral glenohumeral offset correlated with the radius of the curvature of the humeral head and the humeral head diameter. The neck shaft angle was not correlated with the offset value. However, when the offset value was divided by the humeral head diameter, to eliminate the affection of the size of the humeral head toward the offset, a correlation was observed with the neck shaft angle. Based on these correlations, we could obtain the equation of the lateral glenohumeral offset according to the neck shaft angle. Using the equation, when the neck shaft angle is decided, the lateral glenohumeral offset can be estimated based on the correlation between the parameters, which achieve the efficient shoulder functions after prosthetic components.

Therefore, inaccurate determination of the neck shaft angle in the humeral head component design and selection may induce dysfunction of the abductor muscles. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Antipsychotic treatment in schizophrenia: atypical options and NICE guidance
Authors: Mortimer Ann M.
Published: September 2003

Following the reintroduction of clozapine, several atypical antipsychotics have become available for the treatment of schizophrenia. These drugs are at least as effective as conventional treatment. Although each has an individual pattern of affinities, new work suggests that the hallmark of atypicality is fast dissociation at the dopamine-2 receptor. Numerous novel drugs are in development, but it is not clear how these conform to this theory of therapeutic effect. Atypical antipsychotics cause less extrapyramidal side effects than conventional treatment, but other effects such as hyperprolactinaemia, weight gain, glucose dysregulation and prolonged QTc interval remain problematic for some. Current antipsychotic prescribing practice is far from ideal: the NICE guidance stresses that atypical treatments should be considered unless symptoms are well controlled and side effects are acceptable, or depot formulation is indicated. There is a welcome emphasis on drug treatment as part of an integrated package of care negotiated with patients and their carers.
Are therapeutic relationships in psychiatry explained by patients’ symptoms? Factors influencing patient ratings
Authors: McCabe R. , Priebe S.
Published: September 2003

Objective

To investigate the therapeutic relationship and how it is influenced by sociodemographic and clinical factors.

Method

This study analysed self-ratings of the therapeutic relationship in 90 first-admitted, 72 long-term hospitalised and 41 out-patients with schizophrenia along with 249 alcoholic and 42 depressive in-patients and their association with sociodemographic and clinical variables. In all the patients, the therapeutic relationship was assessed using a simple scale based on three items.

Results

The therapeutic relationship differed significantly across groups. It was rated most positively by alcoholic patients and least positively by long-term hospitalised schizophrenia patients. Increased observer-rated psychopathology was significantly associated with a poorer therapeutic relationship in all groups except the hospitalised schizophrenia patients. In this group, increased self-rated symptoms were associated with a poorer relationship. In multiple regression analyses, 3–28% of the relationship variance was explained by psychopathology.

Conclusions

Patient ratings of the therapeutic relationship were partially explained by psychopathology, leaving the greater part of the variance to be explained by factors other than sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.
Dyadic adjustment in parents of schizophrenics
Authors: Espina Alberto , Ortego Asunción , Ochoa de Alda Iñigo , González Pilar
Published: September 2003

Objective

To study the dyadic adjustment in couples with a schizophrenic offspring.

Method

140 married couples, 67 with a children with schizophrenia, and two control groups: 41 couples without pathology and 32 couples with pathology, were assessed with the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale.

Results

The couples with a schizophrenic offspring evidenced significantly worse dyadic adjustment than did the normal controls, especially low consensus and cohesion in husbands, and low cohesion and satisfaction in wives. Anxiety and depression in mothers of schizophrenics is significantly higher than in mothers of controls.

Discussion

These findings suggest that the poor dyadic adjustment of the parents with a schizophrenic offspring could be an effect of the burden.

Conclusion

The treatment on the schizophrenia should be supplemented by interventions aimed at parents’ dyadic adjustment, and mothers’ anxiety and depression, so that they can be in better conditions to help their child.
Acceptance of an intended smoking ban in an alcohol dependence clinic
Authors: Zullino Daniele Fabio , Besson Jacques , Favrat Bernard , Krenz Sonia , Zimmermann Gregoire , Schnyder Christiane , Borgeat François
Published: September 2003

Alcohol treatment professionals are often reluctant to address tobacco dependence in their patients or to implement smoke-free policies in inpatient treatment programs, fearing, among others, non-adherence to alcohol treatment. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the acceptance of an intended smoking ban in a specialized hospital for alcohol withdrawal. Fifteen of 54 patients reported that they would not begin or quit alcohol treatment if smoking were banned in the clinic, but only five would not begin or quit if nicotine replacement were available. The present study indicates that a non-smoking policy would be feasible in a Swiss alcohol clinic, without jeopardizing alcohol treatment adherence.
The day of the week effect on stock market volatility and volume: International evidence
Authors: Kiymaz Halil , Berument Hakan
Published: September 2003

This study investigates the day of the week effect on the volatility of major stock market indexes for the period of 1988 through 2002. Using a conditional variance framework, we find that the day of the week effect is present in both return and volatility equations. The highest volatility occurs on Mondays for Germany and Japan, on Fridays for Canada and the United States, and on Thursdays for the United Kingdom. For most of the markets, the days with the highest volatility also coincide with that market's lowest trading volume. Thus, this paper supports the argument made by Foster and Viswanathan [Rev. Financ. Stud. 3 (1990) 593] that high volatility would be accompanied by low trading volume because of the unwillingness of liquidity traders to trade in periods of high stock market volatility.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Mateo Magdalena A. , Glod Carol A.
Published: September 2003

Mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is a transient disturbance of neuronal function and may include symptoms ranging from temporary and mild to disabling problems that can affect social relationships, employment, and daily functions. Because symptoms of MTBI vary and are sometimes subtle, persons who sustain the injury do not always report their injury or are not diagnosed. Differing outcomes have been attributed to failure to diagnose MTBI. This article describes the prevalence of MTBI in psychiatric patients; discusses the clinical course following MTBI; and provides guidelines for assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Lastly, implications for psychiatric nursing are highlighted.
Health Promotion in Persons with Schizophrenia: Atypical Medications
Authors: Beebe Lora Humphrey
Published: September 2003

Nearly 2 million Americans suffer from schizophrenia, which is considered the most chronic and disabling of the severe mental disorders. In addition to psychotic symptoms, cognitive deficits, and social impairments, persons with schizophrenia are faced with multiple barriers to the achievement of optimal health. Psychiatric nurses must assess physical and psychological risk factors, monitor medication responses and side effects, and provide health promotion strategies for persons with schizophrenia. After providing a brief summary of the diagnostic criteria and clinical features of schizophrenia, this article reviews medication management with atypical agents and serious drug reactions.
A comprehensive global three‐dimensional model of δ18O in atmospheric CO2: 1. Validation of surface processes
Authors: Cuntz Matthias , Ciais Philippe , Hoffmann Georg , Knorr Wolfgang
Published: September 2003

We have built the first comprehensive global three‐dimensional model of δ18O in atmospheric CO2. The constructed model goes beyond all other approaches made until now, by simulating the diurnal variations and transport of CO2, δ18O of water, and δ18O of CO2. The CO18O fluxes are thereby dependent on the atmospheric CO18O composition. We have validated the model surface processes, showing that it compares well to other estimates and measurements of NPP, NEE, and stomata‐internal CO2 mixing ratio (ci), except for high northern latitudes. Here, the model is considerably lower in NPP and higher in ci than other model estimates. However, estimates derived indirectly from observations tend to support our model findings. The water isotopes of rain are reproduced very well at all latitudes. The soil bucket model used in the model integrates incoming rain in one single value. The bucket approach overattenuates the isotopic variations of rain, and hence our isotopic source signature of respiration shows almost no seasonal cycle and is thus isotopically too depleted during summer.
A comprehensive global three‐dimensional model of δ18O in atmospheric CO2: 2. Mapping the atmospheric signal
Authors: Cuntz Matthias , Ciais Philippe , Hoffmann Georg , Allison Colin E. , Francey Roger J. , Knorr Wolfgang , Tans Pieter P. , White James W. C. , Levin Ingeborg
Published: September 2003

We have modeled the distribution of δ18O in atmospheric CO2 with a new comprehensive global three‐dimensional model. We have focused in this study on the seasonal cycle and the meridional gradient in the atmosphere. The model has been compared with a data set of δ18O‐CO2, which merges measurements made by different laboratories, with allowance for recently elucidated calibration biases. The model compares well with the seasonal cycle of CO2, but advances the measured δ18O‐CO2 seasonal cycle by two months. The calculated seasonal amplitude is typically 2/3 of the measured value, but the sensitivity to uncertainties in the input parameter set is such that a range of amplitudes over a factor of 3 is accommodated. Unlike the case for the amplitude, the sensitivity analyses demonstrate that the modeled phase of the seasonal cycle and the north‐south gradient are practically unaffected by uncertainty in the parameter set. The north‐south gradient comes, on the one hand, from the disequilibrium of the δ18O‐CO2 isofluxes at every grid point and, on the other hand, from rectification gradients, a covariance of the varying δ18O‐CO2 source with the atmospheric transport. The model exhibits a very strong rectification gradient that can lead to a misinterpretation of the measurements compared to the model. We therefore restrict comparison to the latitudinal means of only ocean grid cells with measurements from stations sampling the marine boundary layer. Assimilation and respiration are the determining factors of the seasonal cycle and the north‐south gradient of δ18O‐CO2. In a number of sensitivity studies we have explored the range of possible processes affecting the simulated seasonal cycle and hemispheric gradient. None of these processes contributed significantly to improve the model‐observation mismatch. The contribution of assimilation and respiration to the total signal does change significantly in the sensitivity studies, but, because of feedback processes, they change in such a way that the overall response of the model is only marginally altered. In particular, prescribing δ18O‐H2O soil values to monthly means of rain does not significantly change the modeled signal, either in the seasonal cycle or in the meridional gradient. This highlights the need to accurately model assimilation and respiration in order to understand δ18O in atmospheric CO2.
Biogenic methanol and its impacts on tropospheric oxidants
Authors: Tie Xuexi , Guenther Alex , Holland Elisabeth
Published: September 2003

We use a global chemical transport model (MOZART‐2) to estimate the effects of surface emissions of methanol on tropospheric oxidants. The importance of methanol in tropospheric chemistry is two fold. First, methanol has a relatively large surface emission with an estimated global emission of 70 to 350 Tg methanol/year. The estimated methanol flux is comparable to other major hydrocarbon surface emissions such as isoprene and total monoterpenes, but the chemical lifetime of methanol is several days (in the boundary layer) to a few weeks (in the upper troposphere), which is much longer than the chemical lifetime of isoprene or monoterpenes (For example, the chemical lifetime of isoprene is about 2 hours). With a surface emission of 104 to 312 Tg methanol/year (encompasses estimated uncertainty in methanol emissions), the calculation shows that on average, the inclusion of methanol emission produces approximately 1–2% increase in O3, 1–3% decrease in OH, 3–5% increase in HO2, and 3–9% increase in CH2O globally. The maximum perturbation to the oxidants occurs in the tropical upper troposphere. However, the uncertainty associated with current methanol emission estimates produces significantly different model predictions of tropospheric oxidant distributions.
Empirical TOMS index for dust aerosol: Applications to model validation and source characterization
Authors: Ginoux Paul , Torres Omar
Published: September 2003

An empirical relation is developed to express the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS) aerosol index (AI) for the case of dust plumes, as an explicit function of four physical quantities: the single scattering albedo, optical thickness, altitude of the plume and surface pressure. This relation allows sensitivity analysis of the TOMS AI with physical properties, quantitative comparison with dust model results and physical analysis of dust sources, without the necessity of cumbersome radiative calculation. Two applications are presented: (1) the case study of a dust storm over the North Atlantic in March 1988, and (2) the characterization of 13 major dust sources. The first application shows that simulated dust distribution can be quantitatively compared to TOMS AI on a daily basis and over regions where dust is the dominant aerosol. The second application necessitates to further parameterize the relation by replacing the optical thickness and the altitude of the plume by meteorological variables. The advantage is that surface meteorological fields are easily available globally and for decades but the formulation only applies to dust sources. The daily, seasonal and interannual variability of the parameterized index over major dust sources reproduces correctly the variability of the observed TOMS AI. The correlation between these two indices is used to determine the surface characteristics and physical properties of dust aerosol over the sources.
Distributions of trace gases and aerosols during the dry biomass burning season in southern Africa
Authors: Sinha Parikhit , Hobbs Peter V. , Yokelson Robert J. , Blake Donald R. , Gao Song , Kirchstetter Thomas W.
Published: September 2003

Vertical profiles in the lower troposphere of temperature, relative humidity, sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), condensation nuclei (CN), and carbon monoxide (CO), and horizontal distributions of twenty gaseous and particulate species, are presented for five regions of southern Africa during the dry biomass burning season of 2000. The regions are the semiarid savannas of northeast South Africa and northern Botswana, the savanna‐forest mosaic of coastal Mozambique, the humid savanna of southern Zambia, and the desert of western Namibia. The highest average concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2), CO, methane (CH4), O3, black particulate carbon, and total particulate carbon were in the Botswana and Zambia sectors (388 and 392 ppmv, 369 and 453 ppbv, 1753 and 1758 ppbv, 79 and 88 ppbv, 2.6 and 5.5 μg m−3, and 13.2 and 14.3 μg m−3). This was due to intense biomass burning in Zambia and surrounding regions. The South Africa sector had the highest average concentrations of SO2, sulfate particles, and CN (5.1 ppbv, 8.3 μg m−3, and 6400 cm−3, respectively), which derived from biomass burning and electric generation plants and mining operations within this sector. Air quality in the Mozambique sector was similar to the neighboring South Africa sector. Over the arid Namibia sector there were polluted layers aloft, in which average SO2, O3, and CO mixing ratios (1.2 ppbv, 76 ppbv, and 310 ppbv, respectively) were similar to those measured over the other more polluted sectors. This was due to transport of biomass smoke from regions of widespread savanna burning in southern Angola. Average concentrations over all sectors of CO2 (386 ± 8 ppmv), CO (261 ± 81 ppbv), SO2 (2.5 ± 1.6 ppbv), O3 (64 ± 13 ppbv), black particulate carbon (2.3 ± 1.9 μg m−3), organic particulate carbon (6.2 ± 5.2 μg m−3), total particle mass (26.0 ± 4.7 μg m−3), and potassium particles (0.4 ± 0.1 μg m−3) were comparable to those in polluted, urban air. Since the majority of the measurements in this study were obtained in locations well removed from industrial sources of pollution, the high average concentrations of pollutants reflect the effects of widespread biomass burning. On occasions, relatively thin (∼0.5 km) layers of remarkably clean air were located at ∼3 km above mean sea level, sandwiched between heavily polluted air. The data presented here can be used for inputs to and validation of regional and global atmospheric chemical models.
CO2frost cap thickness on Mars during northern winter and spring
Authors: Feldman W. C. , Prettyman T. H. , Boynton W. V. , Murphy J. R. , Squyres S. , Karunatillake S. , Maurice S. , Tokar R. L. , McKinney G. W. , Hamara D. K. , Kelly N. , Kerry K.
Published: September 2003

The thickness of seasonal CO2frost that covers the north pole of Mars during the winter and spring seasons is studied using gamma ray and neutron data measured using the gamma ray spectrometer suite of instruments aboard Mars Odyssey. The resultant seasonal variation of CO2ice/frost thickness for latitudes greater than +85° is in close agreement (within 9% at maximum) with those predicted using all three major Mars general circulation models presently in use. These observed CO2ice results are significantly different from those inferred from the Mars Obiter Laser Altimeter experiment aboard Mars Global Surveyor (MGS). A possible explanation is that the density of the CO2ice/frost cap is considerably lower than that inferred from observed variations of the MGS orbit. Other significant results are that the thermal neutron counting rates provide evidence for variations in the abundance of noncondensable components of the polar atmosphere of Mars and that the basement terrain below the seasonal cover of CO2frost within about 10° of the pole is nearly 100% water ice.
On the hydraulic properties of coarse‐textured sediments at intermediate water contents
Authors: Khaleel Raziuddin , Heller Paula R.
Published: September 2003

A modified steady state head control method was used to obtain, on identical samples, direct measurements of soil moisture retention (volumetric water content θ versus matric potential ψ) and unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (K) as a function of both θ and ψ. The minimum ψ values for the undisturbed coarse‐textured samples were as low as −400 cm, whereas the θ values were as low as 0.04. Of the 79 samples, 41 contained a high gravel fraction (>2 mm size) that ranged from 20 to 71% by weight. The remaining samples were sandy with very little gravel fraction. We examined similarities and differences between the two soil types in their retention and K(θ) slopes for the intermediate moisture regime. The retention data for the gravelly soils fell within a narrower range than for the sandy type. The water capacity (dθ/dψ) estimates for the two soil types showed similar variability. Although both soils are coarse‐textured, important differences were noted in two integral measures for ψ(θ) and K(θ) measurements. The mean and variance for the Campbell pore‐size distribution parameter (b) and K(θ) slope (β) estimates for the gravelly type were larger than those for the sandy type. A unique relation was noted between b and β; the relationship was similar for the two soil types with a very dissimilar particle‐size distribution.
Seventeen novel HLA‐A alleles
Authors: Steiner N.K. , Rizzo M. , Bradshaw D. , Baldassarre L. , Jones P. , Koester R. , Ng J. , Hartzman R.J. , Hurley C.K.
Published: September 2003

Abstract:  This paper describes 17 novel HLA‐A alleles: A*0244, A*0251, A*0254, A*0309, A*1111, A*2432, A*2434, A*2504, A*2618, A*2905, A*2906, A*3106, A*3107, A*3207, A*6820, A*7407, and A*7408. Most substitutions are found in other alleles.
Association of MHC dimorphic Alu insertions with HLA class I and MIC genes in Japanese HLA‐B48 haplotypes
Authors: Dunn D.S , Ota M. , Inoko H. , Kulski J.K.
Published: September 2003

Abstract A large proportion of Japanese with the HLA‐B48 allele have a MICA gene deletion associated with a MICB null allele within the class I region of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC). Here, we report for the first time a novel positive association between the presence of a polymorphic Alu insertion, AluyMICB, within the first intron of the MICB gene and the MICAdel/MICBnull/HLA‐B48 haplotype for five of six well‐characterized Japanese cell‐lines. The AluyMICB insertion was found to be present at a frequency of 0.242 in 86 Japanese tissue donors and in four of the five individuals with the HLA‐B48 allele. The AluyMICB insertion was also associated with at least three different MICB alleles, *0102, *0107N and *0105, and three different HLA‐B alleles, B13, B48 and B57, respectively, in the seven Workshop cell‐lines (the 4th Asia‐Oceania Histocompatibility Workshop, and the 10th International Histocompatibility Workshop) and the six Japanese cell‐lines that were selected for this study. Based on the analysis of associations between different polymorphic markers within the beta block, the MICB*0102 allele was inferred to be the ancestral form of the MICB*0105 and MICB*0107N alleles. The AluyMICB polymorphism can now be used to further investigate its relationship with other MICB alleles and consequently their origins. In addition, we have examined the absence and presence of three other polymorphic Alu markers distributed within the alpha block of the class I region of the HLA‐B48/AluyMICB haplotype. We conclude that the extended HLA‐B haplotypes are best defined by considering multiple genomic sites including the four polymorphic Alu insertions described in this study.
Neurourological changes before and after radical hysterectomy in patients with cervical cancer
Authors: Chuang Tien‐Yow , Yu Ken‐Jen , Penn I‐Wen , Chang Yue‐Cune , Lin Pei‐Hsin , Tsai Yun‐An
Published: September 2003

Background.  The severity of bladder dysfunction in patients receiving radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer has been related to the delicacy and the degree of radicality of the hysterectomy. Our goal was to evaluate the effect of modified radical hysterectomy on the storage and evacuation of the lower urinary tract.

Methods.  In this prospective study, 18 patients underwent radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer with FIGO stages Ia, Ib and IIa. These patients participated in a pudendal motor nerve conduction study and a urodynamic study, including urethral pressure profile (UPP), cystometry (CMG) and uroflowmetry (UFR). These were carried out at preoperative baseline and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months following surgery. We used generalized linear models to evaluate, over time, the relationship between the different parameters marked in these profiles.

Results.  The average pudendal nerve motor latency was prolonged at 2 and 6 weeks after surgery but recovered to baseline at 3 months postsurgery. Maximal urethral closing pressure revealed a tendency to decrease, and the CMG showed a significant increase in maximum intravesical filling pressure and a marked decrease in compliance throughout the investigative course. Increased residual urine volume and decreased uroflow rates were detected in a series of UFR. However, these values headed for baseline at 6 months after surgery.

Conclusion.  Transient neurological changes in the majority of our patients suggested that both somatic and autonomic demyelination with or without denervation might be responsible for the temporal changes in vesicourethral function after radical hysterectomy and recovery to baseline condition within 6 months.
A clinical study comparing PureSperm and SpermFilter for density gradient separation of human spermatozoa in assisted reproduction
Authors: Laursen Steen B. , Andersen Claus Yding , Hindkjær Johnny , Erb Karin
Published: September 2003

Objective.  To compare a new density gradient medium, SpermFilter, for purifying spermatozoa in assisted reproduction with the more established medium, PureSperm.

Design.  Part 1, a multicenter study on 225 semen samples purified using either PureSperm (115 semen samples) or SpermFilter (110 semen samples). Part 2, a retrospective, single center study on a total of 898 assisted reproductive cycles (245 insemination cycles using husband semen, 58 insemination cycles using donor semen and 595 in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles.

Setting.  Part 1, three fertility clinics in Denmark (two university‐affiliated fertility clinics and one private clinic). Part 2, one university‐affiliated fertility clinic in Denmark.

Main outcome parameters.  Part 1, purity of purified spermatozoa (% motile), motility index and recovery of motile spermatozoa. Part 2, malformation and baby take‐home rates (insemination cycles), fertilization, cleavage, implantation, malformation and baby take‐home rates (IVF/ICSI cycles).

Results.  No statistical differences were observed in any of the parameters investigated.

Conclusion.  SpermFilter is a valid alternative to PureSperm in assisted reproduction technology (ART).
Effects of 0.2% chlorhexidine spray applied once or twice daily on plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation in a geriatric population
Authors: Clavero Javier , Baca Pilar , Junco Pilar , González Ma Paloma
Published: September 2003

Background/aims:
Chlorhexidine (CHX) spray has proven to be an easily applicable method for the chemical control of plaque in elderly and handicapped patients. A randomized double‐blind cross‐over placebo‐controlled trial was undertaken to compare the effects of 0.2% CHX spray applied once or twice daily on the plaque and gingival indexes in 13 institutionalized elderly patients.

Method:
The study subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups. During the first 30‐day period, one group received 0.2% chlorhexidine spray twice daily and the other received 0.2% CHX spray once daily plus placebo spray once daily. A washout period of 42 days then followed, after which the groups were interchanged and the process was repeated for another 30‐day period. Plaque index and gingival index were determined at the beginning and end of each period. The patients continued with their usual oral hygiene practices throughout the study.

Results:
A significant reduction in plaque and gingival indexes was produced in both the groups. There were no significant differences in index scores between the groups.

Conclusions:
The results of the present study suggest that a single‐daily application of 0.2% CHX spray is equally as effective in reducing plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation in institutionalized elderly patients as are two‐daily applications of the same spray.
The systemic immune response is more prominent than the mucosal immune response in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease
Authors: Lappin D. F. , McGregor A. M. P. , Kinane D. F.
Published: September 2003

Background, aim:  The diseased periodontium appears to express features of a systemic and a mucosal immune response. Our aims were to determine differences in immunoglobulin expression between gingivitis and periodontitis lesions and to ascertain whether immune and inflammatory cells were recruited into the diseased periodontium by the mucosal addressin adhesion molecule (MAdCAM‐1).

Methods:  In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of chemokines, adhesion molecules and immunoglobulins in tissue sections of gingival and granulation tissues excised from periodontitis‐affected sites and of healthy tissue and gingivitis‐affected tissue excised during crown‐lengthening procedures.

Results:  Greater numbers of plasma cells were observed in periodontitis gingival/granulation tissue lesions compared with gingivitis lesions. While IgA1 were predominant in all lesions, IgA2 and J‐chain expressing plasma cells were present in increased proportions in gingival tissues compared with granulation tissue. Intracellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) was higher in periodontitis than in gingivitis and interleukin‐8 mRNA was higher in lesions with a pronounced neutrophil infiltrate. Vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) localized to the deep connective tissue and indicated the presence of a systemic type of immune response in this region. Periodontal tissues (n=71 biopsies) did not appear to express MAdCAM‐1, in positive control sections of small intestine where it was detected.

Conclusion:  Overall, the systemic‐type immune response is predominant, and although the mucosal immune response is minor and limited to the superficial tissues it may have an important role in the host defense to periodontal pathogens.
Analysis of etiologic factors and periodontal conditions involved with 309 abfractions
Authors: Miller Neal , Penaud Jacques , Ambrosini Pascal , Bisson‐Boutelliez Catherine , Briançon Serge
Published: September 2003

Objectives: Non‐carious cervical lesions (NCCL), also termed abfractions, have long been thought to be produced by excessive brushing. Nearly 20 years ago an occlusal etiology was proffered (Lee & Eagle 1984). Controversy still exists concerning these two concepts. The present work was carried out to verify the occurrence of signs of excessive brushing or occlusal disturbances associated with abfractions.

Material and methods: All first consultants were screened for the presence of abfractions during one trimester. NCCL were found in 61 patients who consequently received a thorough examination searching for clinical evidence of excessive brushing or occlusal disturbances. The presence of plaque, calculus, periodontitis, or mobility was also noted. Simple frequency and percentage were used to describe the occurrence of different clinical signs in association with the presence of abfractions.

Results: Abfractions often exist in mouths presenting plaque (40.1%), calculus (41.7%), or periodontitis (20.4%). Ulceration of the gingiva is a rare finding (1.6%). However, subgingival apical limits were frequent (32.5%). NCCL coexist almost systematically with occlusal wear facets (94.5%). Lack of canine disclusion (77.2%) was also closely associated with the presence of abfractions. Conversely, mobility was seldom found (1.9%).

Conclusions: Clinical signs of excessive brushing were lacking, whereas signs of occlusal disturbance were very consistent with the presence of abfractions.