bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re‐evaluating Antarctic sea‐ice variability and its teleconnections in a GISS global climate model with improved sea ice and ocean processes
Authors: Liu Jiping , Yuan Xiaojun , Martinson Douglas G. , Rind David
Published: May 2004

This study re‐evaluated simulated Antarctic sea‐ice variability and its teleconnections in a NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) coupled global climate model (CGCM) with improved sea‐ice and ocean processes. With the improvements to the parameterizations of sea‐ice dynamics and thermodynamics and of sub‐grid‐scale ocean processes, the new version of the GISS/CGCM does indeed do a better job in the representations of the local/regional ice–ocean interactions with regard to (1) the seasonal distributions of the Antarctic sea‐ice edges (SIE), and (2) the vertical temperature and salinity structure in the upper Southern Ocean and surface air temperature (SAT) climatology in the southern high latitudes compared with the control version. However, these encouraging local/regional improvements do not extend to the simulations of the polar and extrapolar climate teleconnections. There is no obvious change to the simulations of the dominant spatial covarying patterns of the SAT variability on either the regional (southern high latitudes) or global scales. The simulated teleconnections between Antarctic SIE and global SAT still show the weak El Niño–southern oscillation like correlation pattern in the eastern tropical Pacific, though the new version generates a stronger tropical Indian component. Some dominant observed teleconnection patterns in the western extreme of the tropical Pacific and over the tropical continents (in‐phase relationship between tropical South America and Africa) are still not well represented or are missed in the Antarctic SIE and global SAT lead/lag correlation maps and the empirical orthogonal function analysis on those correlation maps. The possible causes of the weak teleconnections in the improved GISS/CGCM are briefly discussed. Copyright © 2004 Royal Meteorological Society
Observed and modelled climatology of the land–sea breeze circulation over the Persian Gulf
Authors: Zhu M. , Atkinson B. W.
Published: May 2004

A combination of observations and a numerical model revealed the meso‐scale structure of the near‐surface atmospheric conditions over the Persian Gulf. Low‐level winds were dominated by a single, coherent, perennial land–sea breeze circulation (LSBC) that varied seasonally and diurnally. In summer the sea breeze was deeper and wider than in winter. At night the core of the LSBC over the Gulf was confluent with uplift, whereas in daytime it was difluent with subsidence. Sensitivity tests with the model revealed the influence on the LSBC of the land–sea distribution, orography and the ambient wind. The latter resulted in different conditions over the north, east, south and west coasts. Over the north coast, where the opposing ambient wind created a sea breeze front, landward penetration was very limited; over the south coast it was over 250 km. The thermal effect of the Iranian mountains accentuated the depth and penetration, landward and seaward, of the LSBC, thus influencing the duration of the land and sea breezes over the east coast. From spring to autumn the marine boundary layer over the Gulf was shallow, cool, moist and stable, with strong vertical gradients of temperature and humidity at its top. Its depth increased in the ambient flow from northwest to southeast and also, in daytime, from west to east, because of different magnitudes of the subsidence in the sea breeze circulation over the west and east coasts. Copyright © 2004 Royal Meteorological Society
Brand alliance and customer‐based brand‐equity effects
Authors: Washburn Judith H. , Till Brian D. , Priluck Randi
Published: May 2004

This research examines brand alliances, a specific marketing strategy designed to transfer the positive brand equity of two or more partner brands to the newly created joint brand. The study explores how customer‐based brand equity (that is, brand equity as seen from the customer's perspective) of partner brands affects consumer evaluations of an alliance brand; how the brand equity of one partner brand affects the other; how customer‐based brand equity of the partner brands affects consumers' evaluations of the search, experience, and credence attribute performance of the alliance brand; and how product trial influences such evaluations. Results suggest that merely the act of pairing with another brand elevates consumers' evaluations of the partner brands' customer‐based brand equity, and high‐equity partners enhance pretrial evaluation of experience and credence attributes that are relevant to the high‐equity partner. As hypothesized, product trial moderates the equity value of the alliance partner for experience attributes, and brand equity of the partner brands influences consumer perceptions of the alliance brand's equity. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bilateral anterolateral thigh flaps for large‐volume breast reconstruction
Authors: Rosenberg Jason J. , Chandawarkar Rajiv , Ross Merrick I. , Chevray Pierre M.
Published: May 2004

Autologous tissue reconstruction of a large breast in patients who are not candidates for a TRAM flap is a difficult problem. We present a case report of the use of bilateral free anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps for immediate reconstruction of a unilateral large breast in a patient who had a previous abdominoplasty. Use of ALT flaps allows two or three surgical teams to work simultaneously, does not require intraoperative patient repositioning, has minimal donor‐site morbidity, and can provide ample malleable soft tissue for breast reconstruction. These are advantages compared to the use of gluteal donor sites. The disadvantages include more conspicuous donor‐site scarring on the anterior thighs. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of anti‐CD40 ligand monoclonal antibody as antirejection therapy in a murine peripheral nerve allograft model
Authors: Jensen John N. , Tung Thomas H.H. , Mackinnon Susan E. , Brenner Michael J. , Hunter Daniel A.
Published: May 2004

Monoclonal antibody directed against CD40 ligand prevents acute allograft rejection in several models of solid‐organ transplantation. This study describes the use of CD40 ligand as antirejection therapy in a mouse peripheral nerve allograft model. C3H mice received 8‐mm nerve isografts (n = 2) or nerve allografts from C57BL donors. Treated animals (n = 11) received anti‐CD40 ligand antibody applied to the graft and by intraperitoneal injections postoperatively. At 3 weeks, nerve histology from treated animals was comparable to isografts, whereas untreated allografts demonstrated virtually no signs of regeneration. Walking‐track analysis demonstrated a trend toward improved functional recovery in treated animals. In conclusion, blockade of the CD40 pathway suppresses nerve allograft rejection in mice, and facilitates regeneration comparable to isografts. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Making a profit … and a difference: HP invents an organization to drive sustainability
Authors: Rosenberg Walt
Published: May 2004

More companies are realizing that doing well and doing good are not mutually exclusive. The merger of Hewlett‐Packard and Compaq has produced an innovative organizational model for addressing corporate, social, and environmental responsibility (CSER). HP's CSER group integrates these seemingly disparate functions and relies on influence rather than control to make sustainability a way of life at HP. © 2004 Hewlett‐Packard Development Company, L.P.
Lean at Wiremold: Beyond manufacturing, putting people front and center
Authors: Fiume Orest J.
Published: May 2004

Wiremold spent nearly a decade interjecting Lean thinking into every aspect of its operations. Its noted success, the author believes, owes much to the company's ability to leverage a key asset—people. The lesson is that everything—organizational structure, culture, job design, and HR policies and programs—has to drive Lean behavior. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cerebrospinal fluid insulin‐like growth factor (IGF‐1) and insulin‐like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP‐2) in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Riikonen Raili , Vettenranta Kim , Riikonen Pekka , Turpeinen U. , Saarinen‐Pihkala Ulla M.
Published: May 2004

Background

Insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) has specific effects on axonal growth and myelination, low CSF IGF‐1 levels being found in some severe neurologic diseases. We studied the levels of CSF IGF‐1 and IGF binding protein‐2 (IGFBP‐2) in children with ALL to find out whether these levels correlated with any of the neurological deficits observed.

Methods

IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐2 levels were prospectively measured by radioimmunoassay in the CSF of 14 children with ALL throughout the ALL chemotherapy. These were compared with the levels of 16 control subjects and of patient groups with severe neurological diseases.

Results

During induction, the children with ALL had subnormal CSF IGF‐1 levels which improved after 2 months. In seven individuals, two with severe vincristine polyneuropathy, the subnormal levels persisted throughout the chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest impairment of the IGF‐1 trophic system during induction by a mechanism so far unknown. Correlation with disturbed neuronal function could not be statistically proven. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Successful treatment of progressive stage 4s hepatic neuroblastoma in a neonate with intra‐arterial chemoembolization
Authors: Weintraub Michael , Bloom Allan I. , Gross Eitan , Revel‐Vilk Shoshana , Shahroor Sarit , Koplewitz Benjamin Z. , Freeman Arnold I.
Published: May 2004

Stage 4s neuroblastoma (NB) is a unique entity seen in infants less than 1 year of age, with metastatic disease confined to liver, skin, or bone marrow. Despite metastatic spread, stage 4s NB has a favorable outcome. An exception to this is seen in neonates who present with progressive enlargement of the liver with secondary respiratory compromise and liver failure. We describe a 4‐week‐old neonate who presented with 4s NB, with a rapidly enlarging liver, resulting in respiratory and hepatic failure, who had a rapid, sustained, and ongoing response to chemoembolization of the hepatic artery. This approach is feasible at this age, and may be effective in improving the outcome in this group of patients. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Study of injection molded microcellular polyamide‐6 nanocomposites
Authors: Yuan Mingjun , Turng Lih‐Sheng , Gong Shaoqin , Caulfield Daniel , Hunt Chris , Spindler Rick
Published: May 2004

This study aims to explore the processing benefits and property improvements of combining nanocomposites with microcellular injection molding. The microcellular nanocomposite processing was performed on an injection‐molding machine equipped with a commercially available supercritical fluid (SCF) system. The molded samples produced based on the Design of Experiments (DOE) matrices were subjected to tensile testing, impact testing, Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analyses. Molding conditions and nano‐clays have been found to have profound effects on the cell structures and mechanical properties of polyamide‐6 (PA‐6) base resin and nanocomposite samples. The results show that microcellular nanocomposite samples exhibit smaller cell size and uniform cell distribution as well as higher tensile strength compared to the corresponding base PA‐6 microcellular samples. Among the molding parameters studied, shot size has the most significant effect on cell size, cell density, and tensile strength. Fractographic study reveals evidence of different modes of failure and different regions of fractured structure depending on the molding conditions. Polym. Eng. Sci. 44:673–686, 2004. © 2004 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Comparison of methods for the detection of cocontinuity in poly(ethylene oxide)/polystyrene blends
Authors: Galloway Jeffrey A. , Macosko Christopher W.
Published: May 2004

Four methods for detecting cocontinuity in a poly(ethylene oxide)/polystyrene (PEO/PS) system are compared: scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with image analysis, solvent extraction, electrical conductivity measurements, and rheological measurements. Measurements of the amounts of interfacial area using a novel image analysis method showed that the interfacial area reached local maxima at the boundaries of the region of cocontinuity. Solvent extraction experiments allowed the region of cocontinuity to be characterized based on the ability of the blends to maintain their shape during extraction and measurements of the degree of continuity of the PEO phase. Electrical conductivity measurements were modeled using percolation theory to estimate the minimum PEO concentration required to form a continuous phase. Rheological measurements showed that the elastic modulus measured at low frequencies reached local maxima at the boundaries of the region of cocontinuity. SEM with image analysis and solvent extraction provide the most quantitative information about the blend morphology and are the most powerful methods for characterizing the region of cocontinuity. Polym. Eng. Sci. 44:714–727, 2004. © 2004 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Birefringence prediction of optical media
Authors: Fan Bingfeng , Kazmer David O. , Bushko Wit C. , Theriault Richard P. , Poslinski Andrew J.
Published: May 2004

The flow and thermally induced birefringence of injection‐compression molded optical media such as compact discs and digital video discs is predicted by applying a stress‐optical rule to the flow and thermally induced stresses, which are estimated with a viscoelastic material model integrated into a non‐isothermal compressible flow simulation. The resulting model considers flow and cooling induced molecular orientation, and the transient effect of thermal stress and pressure. Contrary to previous research for polystyrene, the validated results indicate that, for polycarbonate, the magnitude of the thermally induced birefringence is comparable to the flow induced birefringence. Simulation results of the flow and thermally induced in‐plane birefringence for compact‐disc‐recordable moldings with an optical grade of polycarbonate compared well with experimental observations at different mold and melt temperatures. Both simulation and experiments indicate that mold and melt temperatures have a significant effect on the level of birefringence; increasing mold or melt temperature significantly reduces the birefringence. Polym. Eng. Sci. 44:814–824, 2004. © 2004 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Attachment styles, personality, and Dutch emigrants' intercultural adjustment
Authors: Bakker Winny , van Oudenhoven Jan Pieter , van der Zee Karen I.
Published: May 2004

The present study examines the relationship of adult attachment styles with personality and psychological and sociocultural adjustment. A sample of 847 first‐generation Dutch emigrants filled out measures for attachment styles, the Big Five, and indicators of psychological and sociocultural adjustment. Positive relationships were found between Secure attachment on the one hand and psychological and sociocultural adjustment on the other. Ambivalent attachment was strongly negatively associated with psychological adjustment. Dismissive attachment was mildly negatively related to sociocultural adjustment. Significant relations were found between attachment styles and the Big Five dimensions, particularly Extraversion and Emotional Stability. The attachment scales were able to explain variance in sociocultural adjustment beyond that explained by the Big Five dimensions. Intercultural adjustment is discussed from a transactional view of personality. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is trait‐Emotional Intelligence simply or more than just a trait?
Authors: van der Zee Karen , Wabeke Remko
Published: May 2004

The present study examined the usefulness of trait‐Emotional Intelligence (EI) among a sample of 1186 top managers who filled out questionnaires for Emotional Intelligence and the Big Five and were evaluated by a consultant on their competencies. Three higher‐order factors were found to underlie the Bar‐On Emotional Quotient Inventory (Bar‐On, 1997): sense of accomplishment, empathy, and planfulness. Trait‐EI was found to be substantially related to Extraversion, Agreeableness, Emotional Stability, and Autonomy. Nevertheless, the EI‐factors predicted additional variance over and above the Big Five in competency to support. On the whole, top managers scored higher on the EI dimensions compared with a general population sample. High EI scores were particularly found among managers from enterprising occupational environments, that is environments dominated by activities that entail persuading and leading others to attain organizational goals or economic gain. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of the substituted benzene group on thermal and mechanical properties of epoxy resins initiated by cationic latent catalysts
Authors: Park Soo‐Jin , Seo Min‐Kang , Lee Jae‐Rock
Published: May 2004

Epoxy resins (DGEBA) were cured by cationic latent thermal catalysts, that is, N‐benzylpyrazinium hexafluoroantimonate (BPH) and N‐benzylquinoxalinium hexafluoroantimonate (BQH) to investigate the effect of substituted benzene group on cure kinetics and mechanical properties of epoxy system. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was undertaken for activation energy of the system. It was also characterized in terms of flexural, fracture toughness, and Izod impact strengths for the mechanical tests. As a result, the cure reaction of both epoxy systems resulted in an autocatalytic kinetic mechanism accelerated by hydroxyl groups. Also, the conversion and cure activation energy of the DGEBA/BQH system were higher than those of DGEBA/BPH system. The mechanical properties of the DGEBA/BQH system were also superior to those of the DGEBA/BPH system, as well as the morphology. This was probably due to the consequence of the effect of the substituted benzene group of the BQH catalyst, resulting in increasing the crosslinking density and structural stability in the epoxy system studied. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 2419–2429, 2004
Structural dynamics of an ionotropic glutamate receptor
Authors: Kubo Minoru , Ito Etsuro
Published: May 2004

Ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) are postsynaptic ion channels involved in excitatory neurotransmission. iGluRs play important roles in development and in forms of synaptic plasticity that underlie higher order processes such as learning and memory. Neurobiological and biochemical studies have long characterized iGluRs in detail. However, the structural basis for the function of iGluRs has not yet been investigated, because there is insufficient information about their three‐dimensional structures. In 1998, a crystal structure called S1S2 lobes was first solved for the extracellular bilobed ligand‐binding domain of the GluR2 subunit. Since then, the crystal structures for the S1S2 lobes both in the apo and in various liganded states have been reported, and recent biophysical studies have further elucidated the dynamic aspects of the structure of the S1S2 lobes. In this review, the dynamic structures of the S1S2 lobes and their ligands are summarized, and the importance of their structural flexibility and fluctuation is discussed in light of the mechanisms of ligand recognition, activation, and desensitization of the receptor. Proteins 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Repacking of hydrophobic residues in a stable mutant of apocytochrome b562 selected by phage‐display and proteolysis
Authors: Feng Hanqiao , Bai Yawen
Published: May 2004

To test a hydrophobic core‐directed protein design approach, we previously have used phage‐display and proteolysis to select stably folded proteins from a library of mutants of apocytochrome b562. The consensus sequence of the selected mutants has hydrophilic residues at two of the three positions that are designed to form a hydrophobic core. To understand this unexpected result, we determined the high‐resolution structure of one of the selected mutants using multi‐dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The structure shows that the two hydrophilic residues in the consensus sequence were on the surface of the structure. Instead, two of their neighboring hydrophobic residues reorganized their side‐chain conformations and formed the hydrophobic core. This result suggests that the hydrophobic core‐directed protein design by phage‐display and proteolysis is a valid method in general but alternative hydrophobic packing needs to be considered in the initial design. The unexpected repacking of the hydrophobic residues also highlights the plastic nature of protein structures. Proteins 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Direct analysis of selected N‐acyl‐L‐homoserine lactones by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Cataldi T. R. I. , Bianco G. , Frommberger M. , Schmitt‐Kopplin Ph.
Published: May 2004

A rapid, simple and selective method involving direct separation by gas chromatography (GC) with electron ionization mass spectrometry (EI‐MS) was employed to determine some N‐acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs). Using GC/EI‐MS, simultaneous separation and characterization of AHLs were possible without prior derivatization. Informative fragmentation patterns were obtained to identify the structures of N‐acyl chains of AHLs. Electron ionization resulted in a common fragmentation pattern with the most abundant ion at m/z 143 and other minor peaks at m/z 71, 57, and 43. The presence of AHLs in extracts of Burkholderia cepacia strains was achieved in selected ion monitoring mode by using the prominent fragment at m/z 143. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An unusual cleavage reaction of a peptide observed during dithiotreitol and tris(2‐carboxyethyl)phosphine reduction: application to sequencing of HpTx2 spider toxin using nanospray tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Legros Christian , Célérier Marie‐Louise , Guette Catherine
Published: May 2004

A recombinant peptidic spider toxin, HpTx2, was investigated directly by nanoelectrospray tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). This 30‐residue toxin possesses a highly knotted structure with cystines arranged in close proximity. The low‐energy collision‐induced dissociation MS/MS spectrum of the [M+4H]4+ ion permitted characterization of the C‐terminal sequence of HpTx2 up to Cys26 that is involved in a disulfide bridge. Chemical pre‐treatment with DTT or TCEP was then investigated, and it was found that an unexpected cleavage reaction of HpTx2 gave two smaller peptides which were completely sequenced by MS/MS experiments using a Qq‐TOF mass spectrometer. This unusual hydrolysis reaction facilitated the determination of the complete sequence of the HpTx2 toxin. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of phenolic acids in black carrots (Daucus carota ssp. sativus var. atrorubens Alef.) by high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Kammerer Dietmar , Carle Reinhold , Schieber Andreas
Published: May 2004

Phenolic acids were extracted from black carrot roots (Daucus carota ssp. sativus var. atrorubens Alef.) and a black carrot juice concentrate, and characterized by high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Most of the compounds detected were identified as depsides composed of p‐coumaric, caffeic and ferulic acids. Additionally, three hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives and one quercetin glycoside were detected. 5‐O‐Caffeoylquinic acid (chlorogenic acid) represented the predominant compound amounting to 657 mg/kg in the roots and 5815 mg/kg in the concentrate. The specific fragmentation patterns of mono‐ and dihydroxycinnamoylquinic acids allowed the distinction of several stereoisomers. The presence of 4‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid and several further hydroxycinnamic acid esters, together with compounds not belonging to the depside type, is reported for the first time. The present study reveals that the phenolic profile of black carrots is even more complex than hitherto assumed and may contribute to pigment stability of extracts derived from the roots. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Une version feuilletée du théorème de translation de Brouwer
Authors: Le Calvez Patrice
Published: May 2004

The Brouwer's plane translation theorem asserts that for a fixed point free orientation preserving homeomorphism f of the plane, every point belongs to a proper topological imbedding C of R, disjoint from its image and separating

f(C)

and

f^{-1}(C)

. Such a curve is called a Brouwer line. We prove that we can construct a foliation of the plane by Brouwer lines.
Realizing connected Lie groups as automorphism groups of complex manifolds
Authors: Winkelmann Jörg
Published: May 2004

We show that every connected real Lie group can be realized as the full automorphism group of a Stein hyperbolic complex manifold.
On the zero set of semi-invariants for tame quivers
Authors: Riedtmann Christine , Zwara Grzegorz
Published: May 2004

Let

\mathbf{d}

be a prehomogeneous dimension vector for a finite tame quiver

Q

. We show that the common zeros of all non-constant semi-invariants for the variety of representations of

Q

with dimension vector

N\cdot\mathbf d

, under the product of the general linear groups at all vertices, is a complete intersection for

N\geq 3

.
Asymptotique des nombres de Betti, invariants $l^2$ et laminations
Authors: Bergeron N. , Gaboriau Damien
Published: May 2004

Let K be a finite simplicial complex. We are interested in the asymptotic behavior of the Betti numbers of a sequence of finite sheeted covers of

K

, when normalized by the index of the covers. W. Lück, has proved that for regular coverings, these sequences of numbers converge to the

l^2

Betti numbers of the associated (in general infinite) limit regular cover of K. In this article we investigate the non regular case. We show that the sequences of normalized Betti numbers still converge. But this time the good limit object is no longer the associated limit cover of K, but a lamination by simplicial complexes. We prove that the limits of sequences of normalized Betti numbers are equal to the

l^2

Betti numbers of this lamination. Even if the associated limit cover of K is contractible, its

l^2

Betti numbers are in general different from those of the lamination. We construct such examples. We also give a dynamical condition for these numbers to be equal. It turns out that this condition is equivalent to a former criterion due to M. Farber. We hope that our results clarify its meaning and show to which extent it is optimal. In a second part of this paper we study non free measure-preserving ergodic actions of a countable group

\Gamma

on a standard Borel probability space. Extending group-theoretic similar results of the second author, we obtain relations between the

l^{2}

Betti numbers of

\Gamma

and those of the generic stabilizers. For example, if

b_1^{(2)} (\Gamma ) \neq 0

, then either almost each stabilizer is finite or almost each stabilizer has an infinite first

l^2

Betti number.
On the volume of unit vector fields on spaces of constant sectional curvature
Authors: Brito Fabiano B. , Chacón Pablo M. , Naveira A. M.
Published: May 2004

A unit vector field X on a Riemannian manifold determines a submanifold in the unit tangent bundle. The volume of X is the volume of this submanifold for the induced Sasaki metric. It is known that the parallel fields are the trivial minima. In this paper, we obtain a lower bound for the volume in terms of the integrals of the 2i-symmetric functions of the second fundamental form of the orthogonal distribution to the field X. In the spheres

{\textbf {S}}^{2k+1}

, this lower bound is independent of X. Consequently, the volume of a unit vector field on an odd-sphere is always greater than the volume of the radial field. The main theorem on volumes is applied also to hyperbolic compact spaces, giving a non-trivial lower bound of the volume of unit fields.
Families of strong KT structures in six dimensions
Authors: Fino Anna , Parton Maurizio , Salamon Simon
Published: May 2004

This paper classifies Hermitian structures on 6-dimensional nilmanifolds

M=\Gamma\backslash G

for which the fundamental 2-form is

\partial\bar \partial

-closed, a condition that is shown to depend only on the underlying complex structure

J

of

M

. The space of such

J

is described when

G

is the complex Heisenberg group, and explicit solutions are obtained from a limaçon-shaped curve in the complex plane. Related theory is used to provide examples of various types of Ricci-flat structures.
Retrospective Study of Women Presenting with Axillary Metastases from Occult Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Blanchard D. Kay , Farley David R.
Published: May 2004

Although palpable axillary lymphadenopathy is most often related to benign disorders, it may be a harbinger of an underlying advanced malignancy. Fewer than 1% of patients diagnosed with breast cancer initially present with axillary metastases as their only clinical manifestation. This study represents the Mayo Clinic experience with women with occult breast cancer who presented with axillary metastases. Among a group of 44 women undergoing axillary biopsy for a palpable mass, 35 had histologic evidence of a metastatic carcinoma of primary breast cancer origin. Our retrospective analysis focused on the workup, identification, treatment, and outcome of these 35 women. All 35 women had a palpable axillary nodule, no dominant breast mass, and normal mammograms and chest radiographs. Histologic analysis of the axillary node revealed a probable breast cancer in all patients. Long‐term follow‐up was available for 33 patients (mean 71.5 months, range 4–252 months). Mastectomy was performed as part of the primary treatment in 18 patients (51%), and among them a primary breast tumor was found in 6 (33%). Of the women who underwent mastectomy (n = 18) and for whom follow‐up data were available (n = 17), six developed tumor recurrence (35%), and four died of their disease (24%). Among the patients who did not undergo mastectomy (n = 17) as their primary treatment, follow‐up revealed that 12 (of 16) patients developed recurrent disease (75%), and 11 patients died of breast carcinoma (69%). Despite extensive clinical and radiologic evaluation, a primary tumor was not initially located in any of the 35 women with axillary metastases from a presumed occult breast carcinoma. As a consequence of aggressive surgical intervention, six primary breast cancers were located in mastectomy specimens, and those 17 patients followed after mastectomy fared significantly better than the 16 patients without mastectomy (p = 0.047).
Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder Presenting as CD30+, ALK+, Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in a Child
Authors: Sebire Neil J. , Malone Marion , Ramsay Alan D.
Published: May 2004

We report a 15-year-old cardiac transplant recipient who developed a monomorphic posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLPD) which demonstrated morphological and immunohistochemical features of anaplastic large cell lymphoma including CD30 and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) immunopositivity but lacking the commonly associated t(2;5) translocation. The neoplastic cells were Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)-negative. T-cell PTLPD is an uncommon but recognized late complication in solid organ transplant recipients. This is the first reported case, to our knowledge, of PTLPD occurring in childhood with an ALK+, CD30+ anaplastic large cell lymphoma phenotype.
Electronic fetal heart rate monitoring during cesarean section
Authors: Petrikovsky B. , Cohen M. , Fastman D. , Tancer M.L.
Published: May 2004

Fetal heart rate (FHR) response to cesarean section was studied in 65 patients. Induction of anesthesia, skin, fascial, peritoneal and bladder flap incisions were not associated with a change in FHR. Abdominal preparation was associated with FHR decelerations in 15% of cases. Myometrial incision was followed by FHR deceleration in 11% of cases. No correlation between the incision/delivery (I‐D) interval and FHR changes was seen.
Cervical incompetence: a 24‐year review
Authors: Chryssikopoulos A. , Botsis D. , Vitoratos N. , Loghis C.
Published: May 2004

Three hundred nineteen cervical cerclages performed in 264 pregnant women were retrospectively studied. The diagnosis of cervical incompetence was established by the obstetrical history, hysterosalpingography, ultrasound screening and vaginal examination. All cervical cerclages were applied between 14 and 17 weeks gestation according to Shirodkar's technique except 49 emergency cases between 18 and 26 weeks gestation for which other techniques were chosen. The incidence of preterm deliveries (26–37 weeks gestation) decreased from 39.7% to 14.23% (P < 0.001) and that of full term pregnancies increased from 20.04% to 75.74% (P < 0.001). The number of neonates weighing ⩽2000 g decreased from 44.20% to 11.38% (P < 0.001) and those weighing ⩾2500 g increased from 44.83% to 75.82% (P < 0.001). Perinatal mortality after cerclage declined from 28.21% to 5.52% (P < 0.001). There was no increase in congenital defects. An increased rate of breech presentation (5.32%) and cesarian section (20.38%) was noticed. The repeated cerclage in consequent pregnancies did not seem to influence the duration of gestation. In emergency cases the rate of preterm deliveries was 53.06%, of full term pregnancies 12.25%, of newborns with birthweight ⩽2500 g 31.77% and of those with birthweight ⩾2500 g 19.23%. Perinatal mortality in emergency cases was 42.3%. An increase in aerobic and anaerobic pathological flora was noticed in postoperative cervical cultures.
A cost‐effective but safe protocol for the staging of invasive cervical carcinoma in a third world country
Authors: Du Toit J.P.
Published: May 2004

The treatment and prognosis of invasive cervical carcinoma depends on proper clinical staging. The prestaging investigations are time‐consuming and costly and 3rd world countries find it difficult to adhere to 1st world protocols. In the search for a more cost‐effective but safe protocol for pre‐treatment investigation the analysis of some of the special investigations performed on a total of 903 patients with invasive cervical carcinoma have proven beyond doubt that some of these investigations can be omitted without harming the patient. The Gynecologic Oncology Unit of the Tygerberg Hospital R.S.A. propose such a cost‐effective protocol provided some criteria are strictly adhered to in safeguarding proper health care.
Puerperal adynamic ileus
Authors: Leiberman J.R. , Mazor M. , Dreval D.
Published: May 2004

Puerperal adynamic ileus includes acute mild and severe clinical manifestations. Acute severe puerperal adynamic ileus may constitute the clinical indication of a serious underlying disease, such as sepsis, rupture of uterus, intra‐abdominal or retroperitoneal bleeding, ureteral pathology, intra‐abdominal foreign body and internal diseases. Sometimes the diagnosis requires abdominal and chest X‐ray, uterine exploration and intravenous pyelography. Surgical treatment requires proper previous general evaluation; and fluids, electrolytes and plasma should be provided.
Testicular function in rats following immobilization stress
Authors: Murthy N.V.A. , Wray S.R. , Melville G.N. , Wynter H.H. , Santha Ram N.V. , Hari Haran N.V.
Published: May 2004

Stress is believed to influence male reproductive activity. Male rats were subjected to immobilization stress for 2 h/day for 30 days to assess the effects of stress on testicular function. Net mass of the testes, epididymes and the seminal vesicles, sperm morphology, number of epididymal sperms and percent progressive motility of the sperms were determined. Adrenal weights were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the stressed animals. There was no significant difference between the control and the stressed animals with respect to testicular and epididymal weight, level of sperm production, progressive motility, seminal vesicular weight and abnormal forms. Histological examination also revealed a similarity in the structure of seminiferous tubules, adequacy of cell types of developing germ cells, structure of Leydig cells and epididymal lumina in both the groups. This study demonstrated a lack of significant effect of immobilization stress on testicular function in rats.
A multicenter international study on the activity of sulbactam/ampicillin, ampicillin, and cefoxitin against anaerobic bacteria and introduction of a new model of susceptibility testing in mixed infections
Authors: Heizmann W.R. , Heilmann F. , Werner H.
Published: May 2004

Susceptibility of anaerobic clinical isolates from the United States, Canada, and Germany to sulbactam/ampicillin (1 + 2) (SBT/ AMP), ampicillin alone (AMP), and cefoxitin (CFX) was determined with a standard agar dilution test. The isolates included 192 strains of Bacteroides fragilis, 132 strains of other Bacteroides spp., and 19 strains of Clostridium spp. Against all species tested, SBT/ AMP was more active than AMP or CFX Results obtained by a new model of associative susceptibility testing indicated that susceptibility testing of single pathogens from polymicrobial infections is not necessarily reflective of the susceptibility of the pathogens at the site of infection. The results suggest that sulbactam is effective in associations of pathogens producing beta‐lactamases of Richmond‐Sykes types II–V and beta‐lactamases of anaerobic bacteria.
A comparison of ampicillin plus sulbactam versus clindamycin and gentamicin for treatment of postpartum infection
Authors: McGregor J.A. , Christensen F.B.
Published: May 2004

Thirty‐six hospitalized patients, 18 in each of two groups, with postpartum upper genital tract infection were enrolled in a randomized, prospective study comparing treatment with sulbactam/ampicillin, to treatment with clindamycin/gentamicin. One (5.5%) clinical failure was reported in each group. Side effects were minimal in both groups and did not warrant discontinuation of treatment. The in vitro activity of ampicillin versus sulbactam/ampicillin (1: 2) was evaluated and these data were compared with data from other drugs commonly used for aerobic and anaerobic infections. Sulbactam eliminated resistance to ampicillin in all anaerobic and most aerobic isolates.
Developmental characteristics of fetal arrhythmias during the period from intrauterine to early extrauterine life assessed using dual echocardiography
Authors: Koyanagi T. , Hara K. , Satoh S. , Nakano H.
Published: May 2004

To evaluate the outcome of fetal arrhythmias, serial echocardiographic examinations were made on 29 fetuses between 18 and 41 weeks gestation, including 23 with premature contractions (PCs) and 6 with complete atrioventricular block (AVB). Of the cases of PCs 43.5% (10/23) disappeared spontaneously during the antenatal period. 39.1% (9/23) converted to a normal sinus rhythm in early neonatal life, while 17.4% (4/23) had complications of either atrial or ventricular tachycardia. All with AVB (6/6) remained, regardless of advance in gestational age and continued through to the postnatal period. PCs and AVB indicate functional error and an impairment during development of the conduction system, respectively.
Torsion of ovarian tumors: A clinicopathological study
Authors: Lee C.H. , Raman S. , Sivanesaratnam V.
Published: May 2004

Torsion of ovarian tumors occurred predominantly in the reproductive age group. The majority of the cases presented in pregnant (22.7%) than in non‐pregnant (6.1%) women. The major presenting symptom was pain but an abdominal mass was palpable in 79.4% of cases. Torsion was more common on the right ovary and 50% were gangrenous at laparotomy. Most of the tumors were benign cystic teratomas. Only 8.7% of the tumors were malignant.
Two‐stage repair of giant vesico‐vaginal fistula
Authors: Iloabachie G.C.
Published: May 2004

A review of 840 bladder fistulae over 10 years revealed that 64 (7.6%) were giant vesico‐vaginal fistulae. Association with vaginal stenosis and recto‐vaginal fistulae were 23.4% and 4.6%, respectively. The results of direct one‐stage repair were poor at 35% for the first attempt while the two‐stage repair achieved 80% success at the first attempt. Advantages of the two‐stage repair include change in the direction of repair for maximum protection of the terminal ureters and also the possibility of change in patient positioning and approach to the repair of the fistula after the first stage.
Dating sonographic endometrial images in the normal ovulatory cycle
Authors: Yoshimitsu K. , Nakamura G. , Nakano H.
Published: May 2004

Pelvic sonograms were obtained from 5 fertile volunteers and 150 infertile patients with normal ovulatory cycles, using real‐time ultrasound. The existence of a linear cavity echo (C), thick hypoechoic layer (H) and increased echogenicity (E) were chosen as the parameters of sonographic endometrial images to be studied for dating the ovulatory cycle. In 109 serial sonograms from the fertile volunteers, H was observed from 3 days before ovulation (day −3) to ovulation day (day 0). E was observed from day +1 to day +8, and C, from day −10 to day +3. Studies on 189 sonograms from the infertile patients revealed a similar pattern for these parameters. We tested the accuracy of sonographic images of the endometrium, using sonograms from five patients who underwent hysterectomy. The measurements of endometrial thickness, in vivo, and in vitro, showed little difference. Sonographic endometrial images are considered indicative of histological changes, under the influence of estradiol and progesterone. Therefore, observation of the combined quantitative changes in C, H and E facilitates dating of the sonographic endometrial images in a normal ovulatory cycle.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt and pregnancy
Authors: Olatunbosun O.A , Akande E.O. , Adeoye C.O.
Published: May 2004

A pregnancy in a patient with ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt was recently managed at the authors's institution. Review of the literature showed only six previous case reports. The management of this uncommon neurosurgical condition in pregnancy is presented along with a review of the literature. We conclude that pregnancy in a patient with a VP shunt for maternal hydrocephalus, generally has a normal outcome and that the function of the shunt is unaffected by pregnancy.
Growth and rupture of an ovarian endometrioma in pregnancy
Authors: Vercellini P. , Ferrari A. , Vendola N. , Carinelli S.G.
Published: May 2004

Pregnancy has long been considered to have beneficial effects on endometriosis. We describe a patient who underwent emergency exploratory laparotomy at gestation week 35 for rupture of an ovarian endometrioma.
The influence of maternal oxygen administration on the fetus
Authors: Bartnicki J. , Saling E.
Published: May 2004

During the last few years opinions have been divided on the advantages and disadvantages of oxygen administration in pregnancy and during labor. We review the present knowledge regarding the influence of maternal oxygen inhalation on the fetus. We conclude that the fetus may benefit from oxygen therapy during pregnancy and labor.
The predictive value of a nonstress test taken 24 h before delivery in high‐risk pregnancies
Authors: Salamalekis E. , Vitoratos N. , Loghis C. , Mortakis A. , Zourlas P.A.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: A series of 180 cases of high risk pregnancies were studied in order to assess if a nonstress test taken 24 h before delivery is of any prognostic significance. METHODS: To assess the predictability of the NST (reactive or nonreactive) in terms of fetal outcome, the following variables were taken into consideration: fetal distress during labor, low Apgar score (< 7) and perinatal mortality rate. RESULTS: A reactive test was found to be a good predictor of the healthy fetus (negative predictive value = 91.2%). Also, specificity of the test was found to be 85.4%. CONCLUSIONS: The nonreactive test could identify a population at risk but it was not helpful as a ‘stand alone’ modality in decision making, because of the low sensitivity and positive predictive value rates (40.9% and 28.1%, respectively).
Levels and determinants of perinatal mortality in central Sudan
Authors: Taha T.E. , Gray R.H. , Abdelwahab M.M. , Abdelhafeez A.R. , Abdelsalam A.B.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: To determine levels and risk factors for perinatal mortality in Central Sudan. METHODS: Hospital and community based studies were conducted during the period 1989–1990. Of 5328 births registered in the hospital, 197 stillborns and 812 live‐born infants were included in a nested case‐control study. In the community, a follow‐up study was conducted on 1592 midwife‐assisted home deliveries. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of perinatal mortality and adjusted population attributable risks were estimated to assess the contribution of each factor. RESULTS: The perinatal mortality rate was 85.4/1000 births in the hospital population and 29.4/1000 births in the community population. The major risk factors for perinatal mortality in the hospital and the community studies were similar and modifiable. CONCLUSIONS: To lower perinatal mortality, improvements in maternal nutrition, malaria treatment and control, avoidance of agricultural pesticides during pregnancy, and adequate antenatal and intrapartum care are recommended.
The effect of angiotensin II on utero‐placental and umbilical circulation in normotensive pregnant women
Authors: Yunohara T. , Ito M. , Sakoda Y. , Okamura H.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: The angiotensin sensitivity test (AST) has been used to identify pregnant women likely to develop pre‐eclampsia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate uteroplacental circulation and fetal response to angiotensin II (A‐II). METHODS: We studied blood flow velocity waveforms in the uterine and umbilical arteries of 23 normotensive pregnant women before, during and after the AST by Doppler ultrasonography. Fetal well‐being was documented with biophysical profiles (BPS). ANOVA and two‐way analysis of variation were used to analyze the results. RESULTS: Infusion of A‐II to normotensive pregnant women did not affect umbilical artery resistance at 20 or 30 weeks' gestation. Uterine artery resistance and maternal heart rate decreased significantly at 20 weeks' gestation with an AST‐induced 10 mmHg or 20 mmHg rise in diastolic blood pressure. The BPS were not altered after the AST. CONCLUSIONS: The AST does not increase vascular resistance in the uterine or umbilical circulation, and may be considered a safe procedure for both the mother and fetus.
Sero‐salivary progesterone correlation
Authors: Bolaji I.I.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: The use of saliva has many advantages and the concentration of some sex steroids in saliva generally reflect serum levels. However, recently doubts have been cast on this relationship [1,2]. This study was undertaken to establish any correlation between serum and salivary progesterone in quiescent and dynamic states. METHODS: Serum and salivary progesterone were measured in normally cycling (N = 23), pregnant (N = 10) and 5 postmenopausal women on hormone replacement therapy, using non‐isotopic enzyme immunoassay on microtiter plates developed in this unit. RESULTS: Salivary progesterone was found to be approximately 1% of serum progesterone in normally cycling and pregnant women. There was good positive correlation between serum and salivary progesterone in normally cycling, pregnant and the postmenopausal women. The linear regression equation is y = 0.009x + 0.035: r = 0.987, P <0.001; y = −0.011x −0.079:r = 0.958, P <0.001; and y = 0.014x + 1.18: r = 0.714, P < 0.001, respectively. The maximum concentration of progesterone in postmenopausal women was achieved simultaneously in serum and saliva at 2 h post therapy thereby supporting the theory of rapid ultrafiltration of steroids from blood to saliva [3]. CONCLUSIONS: Salivary progesterone measurement reflects serum concentration and provide an attractive alternative to serum measurement. It should become increasingly popular in gynecological and endocrinological investigations especially in longitudinal studies.