bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conserved Glycine Residues in the Fusion Peptide of the Paramyxovirus Fusion Protein Regulate Activation of the Native State
Authors: Russell Charles J. , Jardetzky Theodore S. , Lamb Robert A.
Published: November 2004

Hydrophobic fusion peptides (FPs) are the most highly conserved regions of class I viral fusion-mediating glycoproteins (vFGPs). FPs often contain conserved glycine residues thought to be critical for forming structures that destabilize target membranes. Unexpectedly, a mutation of glycine residues in the FP of the fusion (F) protein from the paramyxovirus simian parainfluenza virus 5 (SV5) resulted in mutant F proteins with hyperactive fusion phenotypes (C. M. Horvath and R. A. Lamb, J. Virol.
66
:
2443-2455, 1992). Here, we constructed G3A and G7A mutations into the F proteins of SV5 (W3A and WR isolates), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), and human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3). All of the mutant F proteins, except NDV G7A, caused increased cell-cell fusion despite having slight to moderate reductions in cell surface expression compared to those of wild-type F proteins. The G3A and G7A mutations cause SV5 WR F, but not NDV F or HPIV3 F, to be triggered to cause fusion in the absence of coexpression of its homotypic receptor-binding protein hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN), suggesting that NDV and HPIV3 F have stricter requirements for homotypic HN for fusion activation. Dye transfer assays show that the G3A and G7A mutations decrease the energy required to activate F at a step in the fusion cascade preceding prehairpin intermediate formation and hemifusion. Conserved glycine residues in the FP of paramyxovirus F appear to have a primary role in regulating the activation of the metastable native form of F. Glycine residues in the FPs of other class I vFGPs may also regulate fusion activation.
Human Papillomavirus Type 16 E6 Promotes Retinoblastoma Protein Phosphorylation and Cell Cycle Progression
Authors: Malanchi Ilaria , Accardi Rosita , Diehl Frank , Smet Anouk , Androphy Elliot , Hoheisel Jörg , Tommasino Massimo
Published: November 2004

We show that E6 proteins from benign human papillomavirus type 1 (HPV1) and oncogenic HPV16 have the ability to alter the regulation of the G1/S transition of the cell cycle in primary human fibroblasts. Overexpression of both viral proteins induces cellular proliferation, retinoblastoma (pRb) phosphorylation, and accumulation of products of genes that are negatively regulated by pRb, such as p16INK4a, CDC2, E2F-1, and cyclin A. Hyperphosphorylated forms of pRb are present in E6-expressing cells even in the presence of ectopic levels of p16INK4a. The E6 proteins strongly increased the cyclin A/cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) activity, which is involved in pRb phosphorylation. In addition, mRNA and protein levels of the CDK2 inhibitor p21WAF1/CIP1were strongly down-regulated in cells expressing E6 proteins. The down-regulation of the p21WAF1/CIP1gene appears to be independent of p53 inactivation, since HPV1 E6 and an HPV16 E6 mutant unable to target p53 were fully competent in decreasing p21WAF1/CIP1levels. E6 from HPV1 and HPV16 also enabled cells to overcome the G1arrest imposed by oncogenicras. Immunofluorescence staining of cells coexpressingrasand E6 from either HPV16 or HPV1 revealed that antiproliferative (p16INK4a) and proliferative (Ki67) markers were coexpressed in the same cells. Together, these data underline a novel activity of E6 that is not mediated by inactivation of p53.
Replicon System for Lassa Virus
Authors: Hass Meike , Gölnitz Uta , Müller Stefanie , Becker-Ziaja Beate , Günther Stephan
Published: November 2004

Lassa virus is endemic to West Africa and causes hemorrhagic fever in humans. To facilitate the functional analysis of this virus, a replicon system was developed based on Lassa virus strain AV. Genomic and antigenomic minigenomes (MG) were constructed consisting of the intergenic region of S RNA and a reporter gene (
Renilla
luciferase) in antisense orientation, flanked by the 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions of S RNA. MGs were expressed under the control of the T7 promoter. Nucleoprotein (NP), L protein, and Z protein were expressed from plasmids containing the T7 promoter and internal ribosomal entry site. Transfection of cells stably expressing T7 RNA polymerase (BSR T7/5) with MG in the form of DNA or RNA and plasmids for the expression of NP and L protein resulted in high levels of
Renilla
luciferase expression. The replicon system was optimized with respect to the ratio of the transfected constructs and by modifying the 5′ end of the MG. Maximum activity was observed 24 to 36 h after transfection with a signal-to-noise ratio of 2 to 3 log units. Northern blot analysis provided evidence for replication and transcription of the MG. Z protein downregulated replicon activity close to background levels. Treatment with ribavirin and alpha interferon inhibited replicon activity, suggesting that both act on the level of RNA replication, transcription, or ribonucleoprotein assembly. In conclusion, this study describes the first replicon system for a highly pathogenic arenavirus. It is a tool for investigating the mechanisms of replication and transcription of Lassa virus and may facilitate the testing of antivirals outside a biosafety level 4 laboratory.
Recombinant Infectious Bronchitis Coronavirus Beaudette with the Spike Protein Gene of the Pathogenic M41 Strain Remains Attenuated but Induces Protective Immunity
Authors: Hodgson Teri , Casais Rosa , Dove Brian , Britton Paul , Cavanagh Dave
Published: November 2004

We have replaced the ectodomain of the spike (S) protein of the Beaudette strain (Beau-R; apathogenic for
Gallus domesticus
chickens) of avian infectious bronchitis coronavirus (IBV) with that from the pathogenic M41 strain to produce recombinant IBV BeauR-M41(S). We have previously shown that this changed the tropism of the virus in vitro (R. Casais, B. Dove, D. Cavanagh, and P. Britton, J. Virol. 77:9084-9089, 2003). Herein we have assessed the pathogenicity and immunogenicity of BeauR-M41(S). There were no consistent differences in pathogenicity between the recombinant BeauR-M41(S) and its apathogenic parent Beau-R (based on snicking, nasal discharge, wheezing, watery eyes, rales, and ciliostasis in trachea), and both replicated poorly in trachea and nose compared to M41; the S protein from the pathogenic M41 had not altered the apathogenic nature of Beau-R. Both Beau-R and BeauR-M41(S) induced protection against challenge with M41 as assessed by absence of recovery of challenge virus and nasal exudate. With regard to snicking and ciliostasis, BeauR-M41(S) induced greater protection (seven out of nine chicks [77%]; assessed by ciliostasis) than Beau-R (one out of nine; 11%) but less than M41 (100%). The greater protection induced by BeauR-M41(S) against M41 may be related to the ectodomain of the spike protein of Beau-R differing from that of M41 by 4.1%; a small number of epitopes on the S protein may play a disproportionate role in the induction of immunity. The results are promising for the prospects of S-gene exchange for IBV vaccine development.
Variable Methylation of the Epstein-Barr Virus Wp EBNA Gene Promoter in B-Lymphoblastoid Cell Lines
Authors: Elliott Jennifer , Goodhew E. Brook , Krug Laurie T. , Shakhnovsky Natalie , Yoo Lina , Speck Samuel H.
Published: November 2004

During the initial stages of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection of peripheral resting B cells, transcription of the six genes encoding the EBV latency-associated nuclear antigens (EBNAs) is driven from Wp, a promoter that is present in multiple copies within the EBV major internal repeat. As infection progresses, transcription from Wp is downregulated following upregulation of EBNA gene transcription driven from a promoter, Cp, located ca. 3 kb upstream of the first copy of Wp. Recently published data have provided evidence that, concomitant with the switch in EBNA gene promoter usage, Wp becomes heavily methylated (R. J. Tierney et al., J. Virol.
74
:10468-10479, 2000). Based on this observation, it has been argued that methylation of Wp plays a pivotal role in suppressing Wp activity in EBV-immortalized B-lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). Here we present data compiled from analyses of Wp methylation in eight randomly selected low-passage-number B-LCLs. These data demonstrate that there is considerable variability in Wp methylation, both between different cell lines and within clonal LCLs. Overall, less methylation of Wp was noted in established, low-passage-number LCLs than was previously observed in bulk cultures of infected B cells at days 18 and 21 postinfection. Importantly, the majority of LCLs examined harbored both unmethylated and methylated copies of Wp. In addition, all low-passage-number LCLs examined contained both Cp- and Wp-initiated EBNA transcripts, arguing for the presence of some transcriptionally active copies of Wp. Taken together, these data argue that other factors, perhaps in conjunction with Wp methylation, play a role in suppressing Wp activity in LCLs.
Perception of Nigerian athletes of the use of mouth guards to prevent the stresses of sports injury
Authors: Adegbesan O A , Onyeaso C O
Published: November 2004

Objective:The perception of Nigerian athletes of the use of mouth guards to prevent the stresses of sports injuries was examined using psychological, sociological, and physical stress variables.

Methods:The descriptive survey research design was used in this study. Participants (n = 333) were selected using the purposive random sampling technique and data were collected using the 4 point Likert type instrument. The coefficient α was used to determine the reliability of the instrument with r = 0.79 for psychological, r = 0.66 for physical, and r = 0.74 for sociological stress.

Results:The result reveals that female athletes perceived the use of mouth guards as being more important to prevent the stresses of sports injuries than male athletes, while athletes who had used mouth guards for longer periods also perceived them as being more important to prevent the stresses of sports injuries compared to those who had used them less. The result also revealed a significant difference (p<0.05) among the various sport groups as independent variables on the psychological and physical stress variables. Scheffé post hoc analysis was used to identify the group where significant difference was found.

Conclusions:The study concluded that since the impact of injury is perceived to affect the cognitive function of athletes, athletes should be educated on the use of mouth guards in order to reduce the incidence of oral and dental injuries to the barest minimum.
Patellar tendinosis as an adaptive process: a new hypothesis: Figure 1
Authors: Hamilton B , Purdam C
Published: November 2004

Background:Patellar tendinosis (PT), or “jumper’s knee” is a common condition in athletes participating in jumping sports, and is characterised by proximal patellar tendon pain and focal tenderness to palpation. Hypoechoic lesions observed in the proximal patellar tendon associated with the tendinosis are typically described as being a result of degenerative change or “failed healing”. We propose a new model for the development of the hypoechoic lesion observed in PT, in which the aetiology is an adaptive response to differential forces within the tendon.

Methods:We assessed the clinical, histopathological, and biomechanical literature surrounding the patellar tendon and integrated this with research into the response of tendons to differential forces.

Results and conclusions:We propose that the hypoechoic lesion commonly described in PT is the result of adaptation or partial adaptation of the proximal patellar tendon to a compressive load. We postulate that the biomechanics of the patellar–patellar tendon interface creates this compressive environment. Secondary failure of the surrounding tensile adapted tendon tissue may result in tissue overload and failure, with resultant stimulation of nociceptors. We believe that this “adaptive model” of patellar tendinosis is consistent with the clinical and histological findings.
Skeletal muscle pathology in endurance athletes with acquired training intolerance
Authors: Grobler L A , Collins M , Lambert M I , Sinclair-Smith C , Derman W , St Clair Gibson A , Noakes T D
Published: November 2004

Background:It is well established that prolonged, exhaustive endurance exercise is capable of inducing skeletal muscle damage and temporary impairment of muscle function. Although skeletal muscle has a remarkable capacity for repair and adaptation, this may be limited, ultimately resulting in an accumulation of chronic skeletal muscle pathology. Case studies have alluded to an association between long term, high volume endurance training and racing, acquired training intolerance, and chronic skeletal muscle pathology.

Objective:To systematically compare the skeletal muscle structural and ultrastructural status of endurance athletes with acquired training intolerance (ATI group) with asymptomatic endurance athletes matched for age and years of endurance training (CON group).

Methods:Histological and electron microscopic analyses were carried out on a biopsy sample of the vastus lateralis from 18 ATI and 17 CON endurance athletes. The presence of structural and ultrastructural disruptions was compared between the two groups of athletes.

Results:Significantly more athletes in the ATI group than in the CON group presented with fibre size variation (15v6; p  =  0.006), internal nuclei (9v2; p  =  0.03), and z disc streaming (6v0; p  =  0.02).

Conclusions:There is an association between increased skeletal muscle disruptions and acquired training intolerance in endurance athletes. Further studies are required to determine the nature of this association and the possible mechanisms involved.
Histology of the fascial-periosteal interface in lower limb chronic deep posterior compartment syndrome
Authors: Barbour T D A , Briggs C A , Bell S N , Bradshaw C J , Venter D J , Brukner P D
Published: November 2004

Objective:To describe the histological features of the fascial-periosteal interface at the medial tibial border of patients surgically treated for chronic deep posterior compartment syndrome and to make statistical comparisons with control tissue.

Methods:Nineteen subjects and 11 controls were recruited. Subject tissue was obtained at operation, and control tissue from autopsy cases. Tissue samples underwent histological preparation and then examination by an independent pathologist. Samples were analysed with regard to six histological variables: fibroblastic activity, chronic inflammatory cells, vascularity, collagen regularity, mononuclear cells, and ground substance. Collagen regularity was measured with respect to collagen density, fibre arrangement, orientation, and spacing. The observed changes were graded from 1 to 4 in terms of abnormality. Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman correlation coefficients, and intraobserver reliability scores were used.

Results:With regard to collagen arrangement, control tissue showed greater degrees of irregularity than subject tissue (p  =  0.01). Subjects with a symptom duration of greater than 12 months (as opposed to less than 12 months) showed greater degrees of collagen irregularity (p  =  0.043). Vascular changes approached significance (p  =  0.077). With regard to the amount of fibrocyte activity, chronic inflammatory cell activity, mononuclear cells, or ground substance, there were no significant differences between controls and subjects. Good correlation was seen in scores measuring chronic inflammatory cell activity and mononuclear cells (r =  0.649), and moderate correlation was seen between fibrocyte activity and vascular changes (r =  0.574). Intraobserver reliability scores were good for chronic inflammatory cell activity and moderate for vascular changes, but were poor for collagen and fibrocyte variables. Individual cases showed varying degrees of fibrocyte activity, chronic inflammatory cellular infiltration, vascular abnormalities, and collagen fibre disruption.

Conclusions:Statistical analysis showed no histological differences at the fascial-periosteal interface in cases of chronic deep posterior compartment syndrome, except for collagen, which showed less irregularity in subject samples. The latter may indicate a remodelling process, and this is supported by greater collagen irregularity in subjects with longer duration of symptoms.
Inspiratory resistive loading improves cycling capacity: a placebo controlled trial
Authors: Gething A D , Williams M , Davies B
Published: November 2004

Background:Respiratory muscle training has been shown to improve both its strength and endurance. The effect of these improvements on whole-body exercise performance remains controversial.

Objective:To assess the effect of a 10 week inspiratory resistive loading (IRL) intervention on respiratory muscle performance and whole-body exercise endurance.

Methods:Fifteen apparently healthy subjects (10 men, 5 women) were randomly allocated to one of three groups. One group underwent IRL set at 80% of maximum inspiratory pressure with ever decreasing work/rest ratios until task failure, for three days a week for 10 weeks (IRL group). A second placebo group performed the same training procedure but with a minimal resistance (PLA group). IRL and placebo training were performed at rest. The remaining five control subjects performed no IRL during the 10 week study period (CON group). Cycling endurance capacity at 75% V˙o2peak was measured before and after the intervention.

Results:After the 10 week IRL intervention, respiratory muscle strength (maximum inspiratory pressure) and endurance (sum of sustained maximum inspiratory pressure) had significantly improved (by 34% and 38% respectively). An increase in diaphragm thickness was also observed. These improvements translated into a 36% increase in cycling time to exhaustion at 75% V˙o2peak. During cycling trials, heart rate, ventilation, and rating of perceived exertion were attenuated in the IRL group. No changes were observed for the PLA or CON group either in the time to exhaustion or cardiorespiratory response to the same intensity of exercise.

Conclusion:Ten weeks of IRL attenuated the heart rate, ventilatory, and perceptual response to constant workload exercise, and improved the cycling time to exhaustion. Familiarisation was not a factor and the placebo effect was minimal.
Comparing spondylolysis in cricketers and soccer players
Authors: Gregory P L , Batt M E , Kerslake R W
Published: November 2004

Objective:To determine whether the location of spondylolysis in the lumbar spine of athletes differs with biomechanical factors.

Methods:Single photon emission computerised tomography and reverse gantry computerised tomography were used to investigate 42 cricketers and 28 soccer players with activity related low back pain. Sites of increased scintigraphic uptake in the posterior elements of the lumbar spine and complete or incomplete fracture in the pars interarticularis were compared for these two sports.

Results:Thirty seven (90.4%) cricketers and 23 (82.1%) soccer players studied had sites of increased uptake. In cricketers, these sites were on the left of the neural arch of 49 lumbar vertebrae and on the right of 33 vertebrae. In soccer players there was a significantly different proportion, with 17 sites on the left and 28 on the right (difference of 22.0%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.04 to 0.38). Lower lumbar levels showed increased scintigraphic uptake more frequently than did higher levels, although the trend was reversed at L3 and L4 in soccer. Forty spondylolyses were identified in the lumbar vertebrae of the cricketers and 35 spondylolyses in the soccer players. These comprised 26 complete and 14 incomplete fractures in the cricketers, and 25 complete and 10 incomplete fractures in the soccer players. Similar numbers of incomplete fractures were found either side of the neural arch in soccer players, but there were more incomplete fractures in the left pars (14) than in the right (2) in cricketers. The proportion of incomplete fractures either side of the neural arch was significantly different between cricket players and soccer players (difference of 37.5%; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.65). Most complete fractures were at L5 (66.7%) and more were found at L3 (15.7%) than L4 (6.9%). However, incomplete fractures were more evenly spread though the lower three lumbar levels with 41.7% at L5, 37.5% at L4, and 20.8% at L3.

Conclusions:Fast bowling in cricket is associated with pars interarticularis bone stress response and with development of incomplete stress fractures that occur more frequently on the left than the right. Playing soccer is associated with a more symmetrical distribution of bone stress response, including stress fracturing. Within cricketers, unilateral spondylolyses tend to arise on the contralateral side to the bowling arm.
Mechanisms of head injuries in elite football
Authors: Andersen T E , Árnason Á , Engebretsen L , Bahr R
Published: November 2004

Objectives:The aim of this study was to describe, using video analysis, the mechanisms of head injuries and of incidents with a high risk of head injury in elite football.

Methods:Videotapes and injury information were collected prospectively for 313 of the 409 matches played in the Norwegian (2000 season) and Icelandic (1999 and 2000 season) professional leagues. Video recordings of incidents where a player appeared to be hit in the head and the match was consequently interrupted by the referee were analysed and cross referenced with reports of acute time loss injuries from the team medical staff.

Results:The video analysis revealed 192 incidents (18.8 per 1000 player hours). Of the 297 acute injuries reported, 17 (6%) were head injuries, which corresponds to an incidence of 1.7 per 1000 player hours (concussion incidence 0.5 per 1000 player hours). The most common playing action was a heading duel with 112 cases (58%). The body part that hit the injured player’s head was the elbow/arm/hand in 79 cases (41%), the head in 62 cases (32%), and the foot in 25 cases (13%). In 67 of the elbow/arm/hand impacts, the upper arm of the player causing the incident was at or above shoulder level, and the arm use was considered to be active in 61 incidents (77%) and intentional in 16 incidents (20%).

Conclusions:This study suggests that video analysis provides detailed information about the mechanisms for head injuries in football. The most frequent injury mechanism was elbow to head contact, followed by head to head contact in heading duels. In the majority of the elbow to head incidents, the elbow was used actively at or above shoulder level, and stricter rule enforcement or even changes in the laws of the game concerning elbow use should perhaps be considered, in order to reduce the risk of head injury.
Improving golf performance with a warm up conditioning programme
Authors: Fradkin A J , Sherman C A , Finch C F
Published: November 2004

Objectives:To determine whether a golf specific warm up programme (both immediately prior to play and after performing it five times a week for 5 weeks) improved performance in 10 male golfers compared with 10 controls matched for age, sex, and handicap.

Methods:Twenty male golfers were matched for age (±2 years) and handicap (±1 stroke). Club head speed was assessed by two dimensional video analysis in a laboratory setting. In week 1, all golfers performed 10 strokes. In weeks 2 and 7, the controls underwent the same procedure as in week 1. The exercise group performed the golf specific warm up followed by their 10 strokes. Between weeks 2 and 7, the exercise group performed the specially designed warm up five times a week for 5 weeks.

Results:The mean club head speeds of the exercise group improved at each testing week. Between weeks 1 and 2, golfers in the exercise group improved their club head speed on average by 3–6 m/s (12.8%), and between weeks 1 and 7, they increased their club head speeds by 7–10 m/s (24.0%). With the exception of one golfer whose club head speed varied by 1.7 m/s, the mean club head speeds of the golfers in the control group hardly varied over the testing period (range: 0.3–0.8 m/s). A significant difference (p = 0.029) was found between the mean club head speeds of the exercise and control groups over the duration of the study, and a significant interaction over time (p<0.001) was also found.

Conclusions:This study has shown that golfers’ performances will be significantly improved by undertaking a golf specific warm up programme compared with not performing the warm up.
Effective ways of restoring muscular imbalances of the rotator cuff muscle group: a comparative study of various training methods
Authors: Malliou P C , Giannakopoulos K , Beneka A G , Gioftsidou A , Godolias G
Published: November 2004

Background:Many studies have compared different training methods for improving muscular performance, but more investigations need to be directed to the restoration of muscular imbalances.

Objective:To determine the most effective training for altering strength ratios in the shoulder rotator cuff.

Methods:Forty eight physical education students were randomly assigned to four groups (12 per group): (a) experimental group who carried out multijoint dynamic resistance training for shoulder internal and external rotation movement (pull ups or lat pull downs, overhead press, reverse pull ups, push ups) (MJDR group); (b) experimental group who exercised the same muscle group using dumbbells weighing 2 kg (isolated group); (c) experimental group who followed an isokinetic strengthening programme for the rotator cuff muscle group (isokinetic group); (d) control group who had no strength training. Testing was performed in the supine position with the glenohumeral joint in 90° of abduction in the coronal plane, with a range of motion of 0–90° of external rotation and 0–65° of internal rotation at angular velocities of 60, 120, and 180°/s. The test procedure was performed before and after the exercise period of six weeks.

Results:One way analysis of variance found no differences between the groups for the initial tests. Analysis of variance with repeated measures showed that the strength ratios in all the experimental groups had altered after the exercise period, with the isokinetic group showing the most significant improvement.

Conclusions:Isokinetic strengthening is the most effective method of altering strength ratios of the rotator cuff muscle.
An evaluation of differences in hip external rotation strength and range of motion between female dancers and non-dancers
Authors: Gupta A , Fernihough B , Bailey G , Bombeck P , Clarke A , Hopper D
Published: November 2004

Objectives:To evaluate the differences in hip external rotation (ER) strength and inner, outer, and total hip ER range of motion (ROM) between dancers and non-dancers and between left and right sides in each group.

Methods:Seventy one subjects (34 dancers and 37 non-dancers) volunteered for this study. The strength (truncated range average torque (TRAT), work, and angle specific torque (AST)) of the hip external rotator muscle group, through the full available active hip ER ROM, was evaluated using concentric isokinetic (30°/s) testing on a KinCom dynamometer. Adjustment for lean body mass (LBM) was made for comparison of strength between groups. A two way repeated analysis of covariance was used to compare strength between groups. A two way repeated analysis of variance was used to compare strength between sides and ROM between groups and sides. Bonferroni correction was made for multiple analyses, and significance was accepted at p⩽0.05.

Results:AST at 0°, 20°, 30°, and 40° of hip ER was greater in the dancers than the non-dancers (p⩽0.022). TRAT, work, AST0°, AST20°, and AST30°of hip ER were all greater on the right side than the left (p  =  0.007) in both groups. Dancers had greater inner ER ROM (p  =  0.013) and less outer ER ROM than non-dancers (p⩽0.001). There was no difference in total ER ROM between groups (p  =  0.133). The right side had greater inner ER (p⩽0.001) and total ER ROM (p⩽0.001) than the left in both groups.

Conclusions:Ballet dancers have greater inner range, angle specific strength and inner range ER ROM, demonstrated by a shift in the dancers’ strength curves. This shift in the strength curve towards the inner range of hip ER may be an adaptive training response.
Bridging osteophyte of the anterosuperior sacroiliac joint as a cause of lumbar back pain
Authors: Parmar K A , Solomon M , Loefler A , Dalton S
Published: November 2004

A case report is presented of a patient with an anterosuperior osteophytic bone bridge of the sacroiliac joint causing lumbar back pain. After prolonged physiotherapy, the bone bridge was excised, with complete resolution of the symptoms. Excision should only be considered in cases of symptomatic sacroiliac joint pain that does not respond to rehabilitation programmes and conservative treatment.
Half pipe snowboarding: an (un)forgettable experience or an increasing risk for head injury?: Figure 1
Authors: Rajan G P , Zellweger R
Published: November 2004

The case is presented of a professional half pipe snowboarder with a large post-traumatic subdural haematoma, which allowed close to normal functioning and socialisation. It is an example of a potentially life threatening sports injury in an increasingly commercialised and popular winter sport. It highlights that a knowledge of injury patterns and a high level of suspicion should be maintained in the treatment of snowboarding injuries.
Cyriax physiotherapy for tennis elbow/lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Stasinopoulos D , Johnson M I
Published: November 2004

Tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis is one of the most common lesions of the arm with a well defined clinical presentation, which significantly impacts on the community. Many treatment approaches have been proposed to manage this condition. One is Cyriax physiotherapy. The effectiveness and reported effects of this intervention are reviewed.
Transition of Sézary syndrome into mycosis fungoides after complete clinical and molecular remission under extracorporeal photophoresis
Authors: Assaf C , Hummel M , Zemlin M , Steinhoff M , Geilen C C , Stein H , Orfanos C E
Published: November 2004

Mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS) are the most common clinical variants of cutaneous T cell lymphoma. Although thought to be closely related to mature T helper cells, the relation between the neoplastic cells in MF and SS is still not fully clarified. This report describes a patient with complete remission of SS under treatment with extracorporeal photophoresis (ECP), who subsequently developed typical plaques of MF and large cell lymphoma (LCL). Serial polymerase chain reaction analyses confirmed identical T cell receptor β and γ gene rearrangements in SS, MF, and LCL, and complete disappearance of the circulating malignant T cell clone from the peripheral blood after ECP. These findings indicate that the neoplastic cells in SS, MF, and LCL are derived from a common precursor T cell, despite the change in clinical phenotype.
Comparison of PCR and antigen detection methods for diagnosis ofEntamoeba histolyticainfection
Authors: Furrows S J , Moody A H , Chiodini P L
Published: November 2004

Aims:To assess different laboratory methods for the identification ofEntamoeba histolyticain clinical samples.

Methods:Antigen detection enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, polymerase chain reaction solution hybridisation enzyme linked immunoassay (PCR-SHELA), and a commercial Lightcycler PCR were compared using 101 stool and pus samples.

Results:Fifteen of the 101 samples were positive forE histolyticaby one or more method. There were discrepancies between the results in five of these 15 samples when the assays were compared.

Conclusions:All three methods performed adequately, so that the choice of assay will depend on each individual laboratory’s budget and projected turnaround time.
A digital atlas of breast histopathology: an application of web based virtual microscopy
Authors: Lundin M , Lundin J , Helin H , Isola J
Published: November 2004

Aims:To develop an educationally useful atlas of breast histopathology, using advanced web based virtual microscopy technology.

Methods:By using a robotic microscope and software adopted and modified from the aerial and satellite imaging industry, a virtual microscopy system was developed that allows fully automated slide scanning and image distribution via the internet. More than 150 slides were scanned at high resolution with an oil immersion ×40 objective (numerical aperture, 1.3) and archived on an image server residing in a high speed university network.

Results:A publicly available website was constructed,http://www.webmicroscope.net/breastatlas, which features a comprehensive virtual slide atlas of breast histopathology according to the World Health Organisation 2003 classification. Users can view any part of an entire specimen at any magnification within a standard web browser. The virtual slides are supplemented with concise textual descriptions, but can also be viewed without diagnostic information for self assessment of histopathology skills.

Conclusions:Using the technology described here, it is feasible to develop clinically and educationally useful virtual microscopy applications. Web based virtual microscopy will probably become widely used at all levels in pathology teaching.
ANALYSIS AND IMPLEMENTATION OF PARALLEL UNIFORM HASHING
Authors: LUCCIO FABRIZIO , PIETRACAPRINA ANDREA , PUCCI GEPPINO
Published: November 2004

The performance of hash tables is analyzed in a parallel context. Assuming that a hash table of fixed size is allocated in the shared memory of a PRAM with n processors, a Ph-step is defined as a PRAM computation in which each processor searches or inserts a key in the table. It is shown that the maximum number of table probes needed for a single key in a Ph-step is Ω( log 1/αn) and O( log 1/α′n) with high probability, where α and α′ are the load factors before and after the execution of the Ph-step. However, a clever implementation of a Ph-step is proposed, which runs in time O(( log 1/α′n)1/2) with high probability. The algorithm exploits the fact that operations relative to different keys have different durations; hence, the processors in charge of shorter operations, once finished, are used to perform part of the longer ones.
ON THE COMPUTING POWER OF PROGRAMS WITH SETS
Authors: STOLBOUSHKIN ALEXEI P.
Published: November 2004

The class FDSet of while-programs equipped with finite sets as internal data type is considered in the context of generalized computability over abstract first order structures. This class is proved to be semi-universal, i.e. to be able to compute every computable function in every infinite finitely-generated structure. However, for this class the halting problem on finite structures is decidable within LinearSpace complexity (on the cardinality of structure), and it is proved that the dynamic logic of the class FDSet describes exactly the class LinearSpace computable global predicates on the class of all one-generated finite structures of a given signature. Some other classes of data complexity are also described in the paper in similar terms. Due to the semi-universality, this class FDSet is a good basis for developing generalized complexity theory.
HOLONOMIC GENERATING FUNCTIONS AND CONTEXT FREE LANGUAGES
Authors: BERTONI A. , MASSAZZA P. , SABADINI N.
Published: November 2004

In this paper we give some undecidability and decidability results about context-free languages. First, we prove that the problem of deciding whether a context-free language which admits a holonomic generating function is Turing equivalent to the finiteness question for r.e. sets. Second, we show that the Equivalence Problem is decidable for a suitable class of languages, called LCLR.
ATTRACTABILITY AND LOCATION OF EQUILIBRIUM POINT OF CELLULAR NEURAL NETWORKS WITH TIME-VARYING DELAYS
Authors: ZENG ZHIGANG , HUANG DE-SHUANG , WANG ZENGFU
Published: November 2004

This paper presents new theoretical results on global exponential stability of cellular neural networks with time-varying delays. The stability conditions depend on external inputs, connection weights and delays of cellular neural networks. Using these results, global exponential stability of cellular neural networks can be derived, and the estimate for location of equilibrium point can also be obtained. Finally, the simulating results demonstrate the validity and feasibility of our proposed approach.
SPEECH RECOGNITION BY A SELF-ORGANIZING FEATURE FINDER
Authors: Lerner S.Z. , Deller, Jr. J.R.
Published: November 2004

A self-organizing neural network is presented which automatically learns the number and type of spectral features from speech examples. The learning algorithm is analyzed with respect to its convergence and stability properties. The “strength” of the presence of the learned features is registered by the network to effect recognition of further speech presentations. The network consists of two layers of feature detectors, each layer of which is self-organized, and the outputs of the second layer are time-aligned in the present design using dynamic time warping. The significance of the two-layer structure, as well as general architectural advantages of the network, are discussed. Results of experiments involving various isolated word recognition tasks, including single and multi-speaker training and recognition, and the recognition of speech of a nonverbal individual, are reported.
THE DESIGN AND COMPLEXITY OF EXACT MULTILAYERED PERCEPTRONS
Authors: Zwietering P.J. , Aarts E.H.L. , Wessels J.
Published: November 2004

We investigate the network complexity of multilayered perceptrons for solving exactly a given problem. We limit our study to the class of combinatorial optimization problems. It is shown how these problems can be reformulated as binary classification problems and how they can be solved by multilayered perceptrons.
ON DERIVING DETERMINISTIC LEARNING RULES FROM STOCHASTIC SYSTEMS
Authors: Meir Ronny
Published: November 2004

We discuss the derivation of deterministic learning rules from an underlying stochastic system. We focus on the symmetrically connected Boltzmann machine and show how various approximations give rise to different learning algorithms. In particular, we show how to derive a symmetrized form of the recurrent back propagation learning algorithm from the Boltzmann machine. We also discuss the connection between the different deterministic learning algorithms focusing on the probability distributions from which they originate. It will also be shown that inspite of the fact that two probability distributions have the same moments to any finite order, they give rise to two distinct learning algorithms.
ROUTING IN RANDOM MULTISTAGE INTERCONNECTIONS NETWORKS: COMPARING EXHAUSTIVE SEARCH, GREEDY AND NEURAL NETWORK APPROACHES
Authors: Goudreau Mark W. , Giles C. Lee
Published: November 2004

The problem of establishing point-to-point communication routes in a random multistage interconnection network (RMIN) is addressed. A neural network routing scheme is presented. This routing scheme is compared to two more traditional routing techniques—namely, exhaustive search routing and greedy routing. The main criterion that is examined is the ability of each routing methodology to solve routing problems. Results are obtained through simulation of the routing methodologies for three different RMINs. The sample RMINs are relatively small since the neural network router in its present form will only be competitive for small RMINs. The simulations show that the three routing schemes perform similarly for the three sample RMINs. Other criteria that will be touched upon are the speed and the resource utilization of each routing methodology and the pros and cons of each approach will be discussed. The results suggest that neural network routers may be appropriate for some communication applications involving RMINs.
A NEURAL NET WITH SELF-INHIBITING UNITS FOR THE N-QUEENS PROBLEM
Authors: SHAGRIR ORON
Published: November 2004

Suggested here is a neural net algorithm for the n-queens problem. The net is basically a Hopfield net but with one major difference: every unit is allowed to inhibit itself. This distinctive characteristic enables the net to escape efficiently from all local minima. The net’s dynamics then can be described as a travel in paths of low-level energy spaces until it finds a solution (global minimum). The paper explains why standard Hopfield nets have failed to solve the queens problem and proofs that the self-inhibiting net (NQ2 algorithm in the text) never stabilizes in local minima and relaxes when it falls into a global minimum are provided. The experimental results supported by theoretical explanation indicate that the net never continually oscillates but relaxes into a solution in polynomial time. In addition, it appears that the net solves the queens problem regardless of the dimension n or the initialized values. The net uses only few parameters to fix the weights; all globally determined as a function of n.
NEURAL NETWORK WITH LOCAL SHORT MEMORY AND COMPLEX UPDATING
Authors: ZECCHINA RICCARDO
Published: November 2004

We study the influence of a simple nonuniform sequential dynamics on the behaviour of neural networks composed of two state neurons with exponentially decaying local fields. The deterministic process is determined by a single dynamical model of the neurons composing the system and the main characteristic is a special choice of the updating sequence in the dynamics of relaxation. Problems such as storage capacity, basins of attraction and optimization algorithms related to network dynamics have been investigated numerically. The results of simulations show that for the Hopfield learning rule, it is possible to enhance the storage capacity and that the set of low excited neurons is responsible for an increase of the signal to noise ratio in the system. The corresponding computational properties are also interesting: tested on the problem of finding ground states of spin glasses, the system shows an effective relaxation to low-lying energy states.
INFLUENCE OF WINDOW EFFECT OF SEMICONDUCTOR X-RAY DETECTORS ON THE RESPONSE FUNCTION AND DETECTION EFFICIENCY
Authors: SHIMA K.
Published: November 2004

In order to search the dead layer of a Si(Li) x-ray detector, the jump ratio of the detection efficiency observed at the Si-K-edge energy was precisely measured by changing the incident photon energies at around 1.84 keV by using monoenergetic photons provided by SOR. Here, the dead layer is meant to be the Si region where the charge collection efficiency, η, is zero. As the result, the dead layers for two detectors investigated at present turned out to be absent. On the other hand, the Si front layers in which the charge collection is incomplete (0<η<1) were estimated to be 0.26 µm and 0.17 µm from a simple analysis for low energy tail spectrum. From these results, the effect of detector window on the response function and detection efficiency is discussed.
MICROANALYSIS OF HUMAN NAILS BY PIXE MEASUREMENT USING HEAVY ION MICROPROBES
Authors: HORINO YUJI , MOKUNO YOSHIAKI , KINOMURA ATSUSHI , FUJII KANENAGA
Published: November 2004

Human nails were analyzed by PIXE measurements using focused 3MeV Si2+ and 2MeV proton beams. It was found that the 3MeV Si2+ ions have a higher sensitivity for sodium and aluminium, on the other hand, 2MeV protons have a higher sensitivity for sulfur, potassium and calcium in nails. By using 3MeV Si2+ microprobe, it was observed that the sodium is distributed uniformly with some depletion areas and that aluminium segregates in grains. It shows an advantage of a heavy ion microprobe over a proton microprobe.
THE USE OF PIXE IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE PERSPECTIVE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS
Authors: FLOCCHINI ROBERT G.
Published: November 2004

This paper presents both historical and current research regarding the application of PIXE to agriculture. These applications are particularly important because of the necessity to produce food in an environment with deteriorating water and soil quality. The research presented has application to understanding transport of materials and nutrient uptake in plants. Given the critical nature of the problems facing this area, it is imperative that all avenues be approached including PIXE. PIXE has many advantages ranging from the simultaneous detection of many elements to the ability to scan materials with a small beam spot. Examples of these advantages are discussed.
DETERMINATION OF ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION IN SYNOVIAL FLUIDS FROM ARTHRITIS PATIENTS BY PIXE
Authors: HOSHIKA YASUYUKI , YUKAWA MASAE
Published: November 2004

Elemental composition in synovial fluids from six patients with various arthritides was investigated to clarify the difference among the clinical cases using PIXE analysis and ion chromatography. Cl, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Br were detected in the PIXE spectra and Cl−, K+, Na+ and uric acid ions were determined by ion chromatography. These results were discussed in relation to the diagnostic findings.
HOLOMORPHIC CURVES INTO ALGEBRAIC SUBVARIETIES OF AN ABELIAN VARIETY
Authors: KOBAYASHI RYOICHI
Published: November 2004

We apply a technique introduced in [7] to holomorphic curves into an algebraic variety whose irregularity is greater than its dimension and establish the Second Main Theorem. This gives a new geometric proof of Bloch's conjecture proved by Ochiai, Kawamata, Green-Griffiths in the late 70's.
Analysis and Methods in Fluid Mechanics
Authors: GUSTAFSSON BERTIL
Published: November 2004

When constructing numerical methods for partial differential equations, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the continuous model and the characteristic properties of its solutions. We shall present methods of analysis for determining well-posedness of hyperbolic and mixed hyperbolic-parabolic équations which are applicable to the time-dependent Euler and Navier-Stokes equations. We shall then discuss difference- and finite volume methods and the construction of grids. The geometry of realistic problems is usually such that it is almost impossible to construct one structured grid. One way to overcome this difficulty is to use overlapping grids, where each domain has a structured grid. We discuss stability and accuracy of difference methods applied on such grids.

Many problems in physics and engineering are defined in boundary domains, and artificial boundaries are introduced for computational reasons. In some cases one can construct accurate boundary conditions at these open boundaries. We shall indicate how this can be achieved, but we will also point out certain cases where accurate solutions are impossible to be obtained on limited domains.

Finally some comments will be given on the difficulties arising when almost incompressible flow is computed. This corresponds to small Mach-numbers, and extra care must be taken when designing numerical methods.

The theory will be complemented by numerical experiments for various flow problems in two space dimensions.
Quantum Monte Carlo Simulations of Models Related to High-Tc Superconductivity on a Transputer Network
Authors: REGER JOSEPH D.
Published: November 2004

Much of the insight into the low temperature behaviour of two-dimensional quantum antiferromagnets has been recently obtained by extensive Monte Carlo. These models are relevant in the study of the magnetic behaviour of high Tc compounds containing copper-oxide layers. While of little technical importance, the physical properties of these models are certainly important for the understanding of the new type of behaviour that leads to superconductivity under certain conditions.