bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lässt sich der Einfluss sozialer Erwünschtheit in einem Fragebogen zur Erfassung aggressiver Verhaltensweisen im Straßenverkehr korrigieren?
Authors: Herzberg Philipp Yorck
Published: April 2004

Zusammenfassung: Während die meisten Studien zur sozialen Erwünschtheit die Auswirkungen auf die psychometrischen Parameter von Fragebogen oder die Veränderungen der kriteriumsbezogenen Validität untersucht haben, liegt der Schwerpunkt des vorliegenden Beitrages auf Korrekturmöglichkeiten zur Überwindung des Einflusses sozialer Erwünschtheit. Die Korrektur der Skalen erfolgte regressionsanalytisch, wobei die soziale Erwünschtheitsausprägung als Prädiktor der jeweiligen “fake good”-Skala genutzt wurde. Dabei konnte auf Ebene der Mittelwerte eine wirkungsvolle Korrektur der verfälschten Skalenwerte demonstriert werden. Da die Tendenz, sozial erwünschte Antworten zu geben, interindividuell variiert, stellt sich im Kontext von Selektionsentscheidungen die Frage, ob auch Rangplatzverschiebungen infolge der Verfälschungstendenz wirkungsvoll korrigiert werden können. Hier zeigt sich, dass die verwendete Korrekturformel keine Rekonstruktion der ursprünglichen Rangreihe unter ehrlicher Beantwortung erlaubt. Mögliche Ursachen dafür werden diskutiert.
Des einen Freud', der anderen Leid?
Authors: Trautwein Ulrich , Köller Olaf , Baumert Jürgen
Published: April 2004

Zusammenfassung: Während negative psychosoziale Effekte von Gewalterfahrungen im schulischen Kontext gut dokumentiert sind, ist strittig, welche langfristigen Auswirkungen auf die psychosoziale Anpassung derjenigen Jugendlichen zu verzeichnen sind, die Problemverhaltensweisen zeigen. Die vorliegende Untersuchung untersuchte in Mehrebenenanalysen mit 4305 Schülerinnen und Schülern aus 203 Klassen die Auswirkungen von zwei Arten des Problemverhaltens (Unterrichtsstörungen und physische Gewaltanwendung) auf die Veränderung von Selbstkonzepten (Selbstwertgefühl, Selbstkonzept sozialer Anerkennung und Selbstkonzept sozialer Durchsetzungsfähigkeit) zwischen der 7. und 10.Klassenstufe. Unterrichtsstörungen führten zu höheren Selbstkonzepten sozialer Anerkennung und Durchsetzungsfähigkeit; Gewaltanwendung hatte einen positiven Haupteffekt auf das Selbstkonzept eigner Durchsetzungsfähigkeit. Zudem wiesen signifikante Interaktionsterme darauf hin, dass die Gewaltanwendung insbesondere positiv auf die Selbstkonzepte sozialer Anerkennung und Durchsetzungsfähigkeit derjenigen Jugendlichen wirkte, die beim ersten Befragungszeitpunkt ein eher niedriges Selbstkonzept aufwiesen. Die Diskussion setzt sich mit positiven und negativen Konsequenzen schulischen Problemverhaltens kritisch auseinander.
Entscheidungsprozesse im Falschinformationsparadigma:
Authors: Walther Eva , Blank Hartmut
Published: April 2004

Zusammenfassung. Ein Falschinformationseffekt - klassischerweise im Zusammenhang mit Zeugenaussagen untersucht - tritt auf, wenn nach der Enkodierung von Originalinformation falsche Detailinformationen suggeriert und in die Gedächtnisaussage übernommen werden. Es wird ein Modell vorgestellt, welches die Informationsverarbeitungsprozesse beschreibt, die dem Falschinformationseffekt zugrunde liegen. Dem Modell inhärent sind dabei sowohl gedächtnis- wie sozialpsychologische Annahmen, und es kann eine große Anzahl von Befunden aus beiden Bereichen integriert werden. Besonders bedeutsam innerhalb des Modells sind die Variablen Unsicherheit, metakognitive Schlussfolgerungsprozesse und sozialer Einfluss. Das Modell beschreibt das Zusammenwirken dieser Variablen und erlaubt Vorhersagen darüber, ob und aufgrund welcher Prozesse es zu falschen Erinnerungen kommt.
Die Reliabilität von visuellen Habituations- und Dishabituationsmaßen
Authors: Kavsek Michael
Published: April 2004

Zusammenfassung. Die verbreitetste experimentelle Methode zur Erfassung visueller und kognitiver Kompetenzen von Säuglingen ist das Habituations-Dishabituationsverfahren. Unter der kognitiven Perspektive bilden das Habituations- und das Dishabituationsverhalten grundlegende Informationsverarbeitungsprozesse ab. Die Habituations-Dishabituationsleistung im ersten Lebensjahr sollte daher geeignet sein, die psychometrische Intelligenz in der späteren Kindheit vorherzusagen. Eine wichtige Bedingung für eine hohe prädiktive Validität allerdings ist eine ausreichende Reliabilität des Prädiktors. Die vorliegende Metaanalyse unternimmt eine Bestimmung der Reliabilität der unterschiedlichen Habituations- und Dishabituationsmaße und stellt die Faktoren fest, die Einfluss auf die Höhe der Reliabilität nehmen.
Cluster observations in the magnetotail during sudden and quasiperiodic solar wind variations
Authors: Kim K.‐H. , Cattell C. A. , Lee D.‐H. , Balogh A. , Lucek E. , Andre M. , Khotyaintsev Y. , Rème H.
Published: April 2004

A clear bipolar (negative/positive) signature in the Ey component was observed by three spacecraft on Cluster in the magnetotail during the passage of a solar wind discontinuity on October 11, 2001 (day 284), which caused a sudden commencement (sc) on the ground. The positive Ey perturbation was accompanied by the northward/dawnward plasma flow and the Bx enhancement, which is the dominant magnetic field component. The estimated Ey from the plasma flow and magnetic field was in good agreement with the observed Ey. Thus the positive Ey perturbation can be interpreted to be the signature of inward plasma motions, corresponding to the compression of the magnetopause. During the interval of the negative Ey perturbation, the magnetic field increase was mainly due to the increase in By and Bz, not in Bx. Unlike the positive Ey perturbation, the negative Ey perturbation was not consistent with the estimated Ey. Therefore the negative Ey signature does not seems to have a direct connection with plasma motions. The observed field and flow variations may be associated with a deformation of the magnetotail due to the solar wind discontinuity moving tailward. The direction and shape of the sc front propagating tailward can be confirmed by three spacecraft of Cluster. We also observed quasiperiodic geomagnetic perturbations at the low‐latitude ground station Kakioka (L = 1.25) following the sc event. They were highly correlated with the magnetic field perturbations at Cluster in the magnetotail (Xgse = ∼12 RE). We show that the source of these perturbations is the quasiperiodic solar wind variations superposed on the increased solar wind pressure behind the interplanetary discontinuity.
Effect of inhomogeneous surface albedo on diffuse UV sky radiance at a high‐altitude site
Authors: Huber Martin , Blumthaler Mario , Schreder Josef , Schallhart Barbara , Lenoble Jacqueline
Published: April 2004

Situated at the very edge of the Aletsch Glacier and thus at the boundary between snow‐covered and snow‐free terrain, the High Alpine Research Station Jungfraujoch (Switzerland, 3576 m above sea level) represents an ideal site for experimental quantification of surface albedo effects on solar UV radiation. Monochromatic measurements of directional radiance distribution in the sky, performed with a 1° aperture lens optics at 310 nm and 350 nm under cloudless sky conditions, are compared with discrete ordinate model calculations of corresponding data over homogeneously snow‐covered terrain, taking into account polarization effects for an aerosol‐free atmosphere. The model agrees within ±5% with radiance measurements at the forward scattering direction of the principal plane toward southeast, where snow‐covered terrain dominates. Toward northwest, the effect of snow‐free terrain causes a significant reduction of UV sky radiance at the backward scattering direction of the principal plane relative to the modeled situation with homogeneous snow cover. Depending on the actual solar zenith angle, this reduction amounts to between 20% and 40%.
Fluxes of nitrogen oxides over a temperate deciduous forest
Authors: Horii Cassandra Volpe , Munger J. William , Wofsy Steven C. , Zahniser Mark , Nelson David , McManus J. Barry
Published: April 2004

Eddy covariance flux measurements of NO, NO2, and O3 were obtained above the mixed deciduous canopy at Harvard Forest in central Massachusetts from April to November 2000. Net deposition of NOx was observed throughout the measurement period, with average velocity of ∼0.2 cm s−1. At night, NO2 is deposited at a rate that depends nonlinearly on NO2 concentration and cannot be explained by N2O5 hydrolysis, suggesting HONO formation by heterogeneous disproportionation of NO2. During the day, photochemically driven NOx fluxes conform to the predicted behavior based on gradients of light and eddy diffusivity through the canopy, with residual net flux attributable to both stomatal and nonstomatal processes. The results were consistent with a compensation point for NO2 near 1.5 nmol mol−1. These results were confirmed by independent evidence from NO, NO2, and O3 profiles acquired at the site over several years. If the rate of NOx deposition observed at this site in April through November continues during the winter, it would have a larger potential impact on tropospheric chemistry because mixing depths are shallow and chemical NOx oxidation is slow during winter; the impact at night is important for the same reasons. The results contradict widely used parameterizations of NO2 deposition that both overestimate stomatal uptake and do not allow for surface uptake when stomates are closed.
SuperDARN observations of spectral enhancements excited during an ionospheric heating experiment
Authors: Hughes J. M. , Bristow W. A. , Parris R. T.
Published: April 2004

Observations are reported of undocumented enhancements to the backscattered HF radar spectrum detected by the Kodiak SuperDARN radar during an O‐mode heating experiment conducted at the HAARP facility. A total of 27 enhancements were observed, each of which was statistically significant, well correlated with the heater duty cycle, and localized within the heated region above HAARP. Several enhancements are symmetrically spaced around the pump frequency while others occur near electron gyroharmonics. The enhancements are distributed over a frequency range of more than 6.5 MHz and may, we suggest, indicate the presence of Bernstein modes and upper hybrid oscillations stimulated by the HAARP heater.
In planta
engineering of viral RNA replicons: Efficient assembly by recombination of DNA modules delivered by
Agrobacterium
Authors: Marillonnet Sylvestre , Giritch Anatoli , Gils Mario , Kandzia Romy , Klimyuk Victor , Gleba Yuri
Published: April 2004

We have developed an efficient, versatile, and user-friendly viral engineering and expression system that is based on
in planta
assembly of functional viral vectors from separate pro-vector modules. With this new system, instead of supplying a plant cell with a complete viral vector as a mature viral particle, an RNA or a linear DNA molecule, we use agrobacteria to deliver various modules that are assembled inside the cell with the help of a site-specific recombinase. The resulting DNA is transcribed, and undesired elements such as recombination sites are spliced out, generating a fully functional RNA replicon. The proposed protocol allows us, by simply treating a plant with a mixture of two or more agrobacteria carrying specific prefabricated modules, to rapidly and inexpensively assemble and test multiple vector/gene combinations, without the need to perform the various engineering steps normally required with alternative protocols. The process described here is very fast (expression requires 3–4 days); it provides very high protein yield (up to 80% of total soluble protein); more than before, it is carried out using
in vivo
manipulations; it is based on prefabricated genetic modules that can be developed/upgraded independently; and it is inherently scalable.
Heterochromatin on the inactive X chromosome delays replication timing without affecting origin usage
Authors: Gómez María , Brockdorff Neil
Published: April 2004

DNA replication origins (ORIs) map close to promoter regions in many organisms, including mammals. However, the relationship between initiation of replication and transcription is not well understood. To address this issue, we have analyzed replication timing and activity of several CpG island-associated ORIs on the transcriptionally active and silent X chromosomes. We find equivalent ORI usage and efficiency of both alleles at sites that are replicated late on the inactive X chromosome. Thus, in contrast to its repressive effect on transcription, heterochromatin does not influence ORI activity. These findings suggest that the relationship between sites of transcription and replication initiation at CpG island regions is restricted to early development, and that subsequent gene silencing and heterochromatin formation influence only the timing of ORI activation.
Modeling Dependencies in International Relations Networks
Authors: Hoff Peter D. , Ward Michael D.
Published: April 2004

Despite the desire to focus on the interconnected nature of politics and economics at the global scale, most empirical studies in the field of international relations assume not only that the major actors are sovereign, but also that their relationships are portrayed in data that are modeled as independent phenomena. In contrast, this article illustrates the use of linear and bilinear random—effects models to represent statistical dependencies that often characterize dyadic data such as international relations. In particular, we show how to estimate models for dyadic data that simultaneously take into account: (a) regressor variables, (b) correlation of actions having the same actor, (c) correlation of actions having the same target, (d) correlation of actions between a pair of actors (i.e., reciprocity of actions), and (e) third-order dependencies, such as transitivity, clustering, and balance. We apply this new approach to the political relations among a wide range of political actors in Central Asia over the period 1989–1999, illustrating the presence and strength of second- and third-order statistical dependencies in these data.
Clinical Predictors in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients with Computer‐Assisted Quantitative Videoendoscopic Upper Airway Analysis
Authors: Hsu Pon Poh , Tan Barrie Yau Boon , Chan Yiong Huak , Tay Hin Ngan , Lu Peter Kok Sun , Blair Robin L.
Published: April 2004

Aim: To identify the clinical predictors and assist surgeons in their clinical management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A prospective study with a new approach to analyze the static and dynamic upper airway morphology between patients with OSA and normal subjects.

Method: Quantitative computer‐assisted videoendoscopy (validated with upper airway magnetic resonance imaging) was performed in 49 (43 males, 6 females) patients with OSA and compared with 39 (22 males, 17 females) controls (apneahypopnea index [AHI] < 5). Absolute cross‐sectional areas and transverse and longitudinal diameters at the retropalatal and retrolingual levels were measured during end of quiet respiration and during Mueller's maneuver in the erect and supine positions, allowing us to study static and dynamic morphology (collapsibility) of the upper airway. Three thousand seven hundred forty‐four (3,744) parameters were analyzed.

Results: In males, retropalatal and retrolingual areas during Mueller's maneuver in the supine position of 0.7981 cm2 (relative operating characteristics [ROC] = 0.9284, positive pressure ventilation [PPV] = 86.05%, negative pressure ventilation [NPV] = 84.62%) and 2.0648 cm2 (ROC = 0.8183, PPV = 76%, NPV = 83.33%), respectively, were found to be good predictors/cut‐off values for OSA. The retropalatal area measured in the supine position (AS1 mol/L) and collapsibility of the retropalatal area in the supine position (CAS1) were found to have significant correlations with severity of OSA. In females, the areas measured during Mueller's maneuver in the supine position of 0.522 cm2 at the retropalatal level (ROC = 1, 100% PPV and NPV) and the transverse diameter at the retrolingual level during erect Mueller's maneuver of 1.1843 cm (ROC = 0.9056, PPV = 100%, NPV = 83.33%) were found to be predictive. All measurements at the retropalatal level and in the supine position had higher predictability. Area measurements obtained during Muller's maneuver were more predictive (ROC > 0.9910) than resting measurements (ROC >0.8371). Several sex and anatomic‐site specific formulas with excellent predictability (ROC close or equal to 1) were also devised.

Conclusion: Upper airway Mueller's studies are predictive and useful (independent samples t test/Mann‐Whitney U test, ROC) in identifying patients with OSA. With these sex and anatomic‐site specific OSA predictors/formulas and this innovative clinical method, we hope to assist other surgeons with quantitative clinical diagnosis, assessment, surgical planning, and outcome assessment tools for OSA patients.
Diagnosis and Management of Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid‐Middle Ear Effusion and Otorrhea
Authors: Brown N. E. , Grundfast K. M. , Jabre A. , Megerian C. A. , O'Malley B. W. , Rosenberg S. I.
Published: April 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis: Spontaneous leak of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the middle ear can occur in adults without a history of temporal bone trauma or fracture, meningitis, or any obvious cause. Therefore, clues may be lacking that would alert the otolaryngologist that fluid medial to an intact eardrum, or fluid emanating from an eardrum perforation, is likely to be CSF fluid. A review of relevant medical literature reveals that herniation of the arachnoid membrane through a tegmen defect may be congenital, or CSF leak may occur when dynamic factors (i.e., brain pulsations or increases in intracranial pressure) produce a rent in the arachnoid membrane. Because tegmen defects may be multiple rather than single, identifying only one defect may not be sufficient for achieving definitive repair. Data on nine cases of spontaneous CSF leak to the ear in adult patients from four medical centers are presented and analyzed to provide collective information about a disorder that can be difficult to diagnose and manage.

Study Design: Retrospective review of nine cases of spontaneous CSF middle ear effusion/otorrhea.

Results: The majority of patients presented with symptoms of aural fullness and middle ear effusion. Many developed suspicious clear otorrhea only after insertion of a tympanostomy tube. Two patients had multiple defects in the tegmen and dura, and five patients had meningoencephaloceles confirmed intraoperatively. Five patients underwent combined middle cranial fossa/transmastoid repair. Materials used in repair included temporalis fascia, free muscle graft, Oxycel cotton, calvarial bone, pericranium, bone wax, and fibrin glue.

Conclusions: CSF middle ear effusion/otorrhea can develop in adults without a prior history of meningitis or head trauma or any apparent proximate cause. Although presenting symptoms can be subtle, early suspicion and confirmatory imaging aid in establishing the diagnosis. Because surgical repair by way of a mastoid approach alone can be inadequate if there are multiple tegmen defects, a middle fossa approach alone, or in combination with a transmastoid approach, should be considered in most cases.
Hypopharyngeal Perforation Near‐Miss During Transesophageal Echocardiography
Authors: Aviv Jonathan E. , Di Tullio Marco R. , Homma Shunichi , Storper Ian S. , Zschommler Anne , Ma Guoguang , Petkova Eva , Murphy Mark , Desloge Rosemary , Shaw Gary , Benjamin Stanley , Corwin Steven
Published: April 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis: The traditional blind passage of a transesophageal echocardiography probe transorally through the hypopharynx is considered safe. Yet, severe hypopharyngeal complications during transesophageal echocardiography at several institutions led the authors to investigate whether traditional probe passage results in a greater incidence of hypopharyngeal injuries when compared with probe passage under direct visualization.

Study Design: Randomized, prospective clinical study.

Methods: In 159 consciously sedated adults referred for transesophageal echocardiography, the authors performed transesophageal echocardiography with concomitant transnasal videoendoscopic monitoring of the hypopharynx. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive traditional (blind) or experimental (optical) transesophageal echocardiography. The primary outcome measure was frequency of hypopharyngeal injuries (hypopharyngeal lacerations or hematomas), and the secondary outcome measure was number of hypopharyngeal contacts.

Results: No perforation occurred with either technique. However, hypopharyngeal lacerations or hematomas occurred in 19 of 80 (23.8%) patients with the traditional technique (11 superficial lacerations of pyriform sinus, 1 laceration of pharynx, 12 arytenoid hematomas, 2 vocal fold hematomas, and 1 pyriform hematoma) and in 1 of 79 patients (1.3%) with the optical technique (superficial pyriform laceration) (P = .001). All traumatized patients underwent flexible laryngoscopy, but none required additional intervention. Respectively, hypopharyngeal contacts were more frequent with the traditional than with the optical technique at the pyriform sinus (70.0% vs. 10.1% [P = .001]), arytenoid (55.0% vs. 3.8% [P = .001]), and vocal fold (15.0% vs. 3.86% [P = .016]).

Conclusion: Optically guided trans‐esophageal echocardiography results in significantly fewer hypopharyngeal injuries and fewer contacts than traditional, blind transesophageal echocardiography. The optically guided technique may result in decreased frequency of potentially significant complications and therefore in improved patient safety.
Atypical Sinusitis in Adults Must Lead to Looking for Cystic Fibrosis and Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia
Authors: Coste A. , Girodon E. , Louis S. , Prulière‐Escabasse V. , Goossens M. , Peynègre R. , Escudier E.
Published: April 2004

Hypotheses/Objectives: In adults, purulent pansinusitis or nasal polyposis starting early in life or that is permanently infected or associated either with chronic bronchial infection, infertility, or situs inversus are uncommon. In these atypical cases of chronic sinusitis (ACS), a primary dysfunction of the mucociliary clearance can be suspected. Adult patients with ACS were therefore investigated to detect primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) or cystic fibrosis (CF).

Study Design: Open, prospective study.

Patients and Methods: Forty‐two patients with ACS were investigated with ciliary beat frequency and ultrastructure analysis in nasal cells and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene mutation analysis in blood leukocytes.

Results: The diagnosis of PCD was confirmed in seven (17%) patients. At least one CFTR gene mutation was detected in 16 (38%) patients. The diagnosis of CF was suggested in three (7%) compound heterozygous patients. Another 13 (31%) patients were heterozygous for a CFTR gene mutation or a complex allele. Comparison of clinical features of ACS showed that only a family history of chronic sinusitis (P < .01) or chronic bronchitis (P < .02) and the presence of diffuse bronchiectasis (P < .0001) or serous otitis media (P < .0001) were significantly more frequent in PCD patients than in patients carrying CFTR gene mutations or those without PCD or CFTR gene mutations.

Conclusions: ACS should be considered a remarkable entity in which congenital abnormalities of epithelial cells are frequently detected (55% of patients). The higher frequency of mutations in ACS patients compared with the general population suggests that heterozygoty for CFTR gene mutation could be a sinusitis‐causing status.
Microbial Superantigens Induce Glucocorticoid Receptor β and Steroid Resistance in a Nasal Explant Model
Authors: Fakhri Samer , Tulic Meri , Christodoulopoulos Pota , Fukakusa Motonori , Frenkiel Saul , Leung Donald Y. M. , Hamid Qutayba A.
Published: April 2004

Objective: To study the role of superantigen (SAg) in inducing glucocorticoid (GC) receptor β and steroid resistance in an explant model of nasal tissue.

Methods: Nasal tissue was obtained from inferior turbinates of controls and ragweed (RW)‐sensitive patients. Tissue samples were incubated with SAg of staphylococcal enterotoxin B. In addition, tissue samples from RW‐sensitive patients were incubated with RW allergen in the presence and absence of both SAg and dexamethasone (DEX). The expression of GC receptor β was assessed by immunocytochemistry. The expression of interleukin (IL)‐2 and IL‐4 mRNA was assessed by in situ hybridization.

Results: SAg induced an increase in the expression of GC receptor β in atopic tissue and to a lesser extent in nonatopic tissue. The most significant induction of GC receptor β was observed in response to SAg and RW in atopic tissue. Stimulation of atopic tissue with RW alone and SAg alone induced IL‐4 and IL‐2 mRNA, respectively. Incubation of atopic tissue with both SAg and RW induced both IL‐2 and IL‐4 mRNA. The increase in IL‐4 mRNA expression was blunted by the addition of DEX to atopic tissue stimulated with RW alone but not to tissue stimulated by both RW and SAg.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that SAgs induce steroid resistance in atopic nasal explant tissue by up‐regulating the expression of GC receptor β. Furthermore, we have shown that the up‐regulation of GC receptor β is a local event that is associated with the coexpression of IL‐2 and IL‐4 mRNA.
Maxillomandibular Expansion for the Treatment of Sleep‐Disordered Breathing: Preliminary Result
Authors: Guilleminault Christian , Li Kasey K.
Published: April 2004

Objective: To assess the outcomes of maxillomandibular expansion (MME) by distraction osteogenesis (DO) for the treatment of sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB).

Methods: This was a prospective study of six consecutive patients with SDB. All of the patients have maxillary and mandibular constriction and were treated with MME. Variables examined include age, sex, body mass index (BMI), polysomnographic results (PSG), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and the extent of the widening of the maxilla and mandible.

Results: All six patients (4 males) completed MME for the treatment of SDB. The mean age was 22.2 ± 11.4 years. The mean maxillary expansion was 10.3 ± 3.0 mm, and the mean mandibular expansion was 9.5 ± 2.9 mm. ESS improved from 10.2 ± 1.9 to 5 ± 2.9. The mean apnea/ hypopnea index (AHI) improved from 13.2 ± 15.6 to 4.5 ± 5.8 events per hour, and the mean lowest oxygen saturation (LSAT) improved from 88.2 ± 2.9% to 91.3 ± 3.3%. The mean esophageal pressure improved from −20 ± 11.3 cm H2O to −8 ± 3.6 cm H2O. No complications were encountered, and the follow‐up period was 18.1 ± 9.8 months.

Conclusion: The result suggests that MME improves SDB in patients with maxillary and mandibular constriction and can be a valid treatment.
Sir Alexander Crichton, F.R.S. (1763-1856), imperial Russian physician at large
Authors: Appleby R.H
Published: April 2004

This paper complements and supplements Dr Tansey's study of Sir Alexander Crichton's life and works. Recapitulating the main aspects of his career, it emphasizes his lectures and some of his scientific activities before he went to Russia in 1804 as physician to Tsar Alexander I and the Dowager Empress Maria Federovna. Following his departure from Russia in 1819, the emphasis is on Crichton's continuing relationships with members of the Imperial family, his associations with Prince Lieven, the Russian Ambassador in London and, in particular, his medical treatment of the Grand Duchess Helena Pavlovna.
Essay review. The alum-maker's secret
Authors: Hamblyn R.
Published: April 2004

Roger Osborne,
The floating egg: episodes in the making of geology
. London, Jonathan Cape, 1998. Pp. 372, £15.99 (hardback). ISBN 0 224 05028 1.
Microscopes and the observation of quantum dots
Authors: Quinn T.
Published: April 2004

Introduction to the May 2004 issue of
Notes and Records
with a picture of Antoine Laurent de Lavoisier (FRS 1788). Born in Paris in 1743, Lavoisier was one of the luminaries of French science in the eighteenth century and the father of modern chemistry. He was guillotined in 1794 as one of the hated ‘
fermiers généraux
’ (chief tax collectors of the
ancien régime
), a position he had held since 1779 only as a result of the unwise investment of an inheritance some 25 years before. (From the engraving by W. C. Sharpe after J. L. David in the possession of the Society.)
Yaba-like disease virus protein Y144R, a member of the complement control protein family, is present on enveloped virions that are associated with virus-induced actin tails
Authors: Law Mansun , Hollinshead Michael , Lee Han-Joo , Smith Geoffrey L.
Published: April 2004

Yaba-like disease virus(YLDV) is a yatapoxvirus, a group of slow-growing poxviruses from primates. Analysis of the growth cycle of YLDV in tissue culture showed that maximum virus titres were reached 3 days post-infection and at this time only 3·3 % of infectious progeny was extracellular. The intracellular and extracellular virions have different buoyant densities and are separable on CsCl density gradients. They are also distinguishable by electron microscopy with the extracellular virions having an additional lipid envelope. In YLDV-infected cells, thick actin bundles with virions at their tips were seen protruding from the cell surface, despite the fact that YLDV lacks a protein comparable toVaccinia virusA36R, which is required for VV-induced actin tail formation. In addition to these observations, the YLDV geneY144Rwas characterized. This gene is predicted to encode a transmembrane protein containing three short consensus repeat (SCR) motifs common to members of the complement control protein family. Antibody generated against recombinant Y144R recognized products of 36, 41 and 48–55 kDa in YLDV-infected cells and purified extracellular enveloped virus (EEV) but not intracellular mature virus (IMV). Y144R protein is a glycoprotein with type I membrane topology that is synthesized early and late during infection. By immunoblot, indirect immunofluorescence and immuno-cryoelectron microscopy the Y144R protein was detected on the intracellular enveloped virus (IEV), cell-associated enveloped virus (CEV) and EEV. This represents the first study of a YLDV IEV, CEV and EEV protein at the molecular level.
Genetic content of wild-type human cytomegalovirus
Authors: Dolan Aidan , Cunningham Charles , Hector Ralph D. , Hassan-Walker Aycan F. , Lee Lydia , Addison Clare , Dargan Derrick J. , McGeoch Duncan J. , Gatherer Derek , Emery Vincent C. , Griffiths Paul D. , Sinzger Christian , McSharry Brian P. , Wilkinson Gavin W. G. , Davison Andrew J.
Published: April 2004

The genetic content of wild-type human cytomegalovirus was investigated by sequencing the 235 645 bp genome of a low passage strain (Merlin). Substantial regions of the genome (genes RL1–UL11, UL105–UL112 and UL120–UL150) were also sequenced in several other strains, including two that had not been passaged in cell culture. Comparative analyses, which employed the published genome sequence of a high passage strain (AD169), indicated that Merlin accurately reflects the wild-type complement of 165 genes, containing no obvious mutations other than a single nucleotide substitution that truncates gene UL128. A sizeable subset of genes exhibits unusually high variation between strains, and comprises many, but not all, of those that encode proteins known or predicted to be secreted or membrane-associated. In contrast to unpassaged strains, all of the passaged strains analysed have visibly disabling mutations in one or both of two groups of genes that may influence cell tropism. One comprises UL128, UL130 and UL131A, which putatively encode secreted proteins, and the other contains RL5A, RL13 and UL9, which are members of the RL11 glycoprotein gene family. The case in support of a lack of protein-coding potential in the region between UL105 and UL111A was also strengthened.
Does electronic journal access affect document delivery requests? Some data from Glasgow University Library
Authors: Kidd Tony
Published: April 2004

This article looks at the experience of a single institution – University of Glasgow – concerning the influence of growing e‐journal availability on the volume of document delivery requests. The number of requests for Elsevier journal articles before and after the implementation of ScienceDirect is compared. The effects of, and reasons for, broader trends of document delivery demand at Glasgow are analysed. Differential demand and supply by faculty, relating to document delivery and e‐journals, are briefly considered.
Tigers at play: Stafford Beer's poetry
Authors: Whittaker David
Published: April 2004

Considers Stafford Beer as a poet. Discusses Beer's interest in a wide variety of poetic forms. Gives some technical examples of how Beer employed Welsh and Sanskrit metre and rhythm to writing in English. Also includes a translation from the Spanish; a ballade and selections from his longest poem One Person Metagame.
Identification of three novel alleles: DRB3*0110, DRB1*1140, and DRB1*140102
Authors: Tavoularis S. , Couture C. , Ribeiro‐Barros E.
Published: April 2004

Abstract:  Three novel human leukocyte antigen class II alleles (DRB3*0110, DRB1*1140, and DRB1*140102) are described here. The three novel alleles were initially detected as previously unidentified SSO hybridization patterns using CANTYPE® reverse hybridization assay. Sequences were determined by cloning/sequencing. DRB3*0110 allele is identical to DRB3*010101, except for a single nucleotide substitution (CGC→AGC) changing codon 39 from Arg to Ser. This polymorphism has not, until now, been identified in DRB allele. Thus, this is an unusual mutation as the codon 39 is a fairly conserved region. The new DRB1*1140 is identical to DRB1*1116, except for a single nucleotide substitution at codon 67 from ATC (encoding for isoleucine) to TTC (encoding for phenylalanine). This polymorphism is commonly found in DRB1*11 alleles. Compared with DRB1*140101, DRB1*140102 contains a single silent nucleotide substitution (TAT→TAC, both encoding for tyrosine) at codon 78. This polymorphism is commonly found in DRB1*14 alleles. The three new DRB alleles may have been generated by a point mutation event. The DRB3*0110 and DRB1*140102 were identified in Caucasoid individuals. The ethnic origin of the subject carrying the DRB1*1140 allele is Egyptian. The DRB1*140102 was detected in two unrelated individuals; the DRB3*0110 and DRB1*1140 were only identified once, in a total population of 80,000.
HLA‐DQB1, ‐DQA1, ‐DRB1 linkage disequilibrium and haplotype diversity in a Mestizo population from Guadalajara, Mexico
Authors: Cortes L.M. , Baltazar L.M. , Perea F.J. , Gallegos‐Arreola M.P. , Flores S.E. , Sandoval L. , Olivares N. , Lorenz M.G.O. , Xu H. , Barton S.A. , Chakraborty R. , Rivas F.
Published: April 2004

Abstract:  HLA‐DQB1, ‐DQA1, and ‐DRB1 genes were typed by polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific primer (PCR‐SSP) in 159 healthy volunteers from 32 families living in Guadalajara, Mexico. Three‐locus genotype data from all family members were used to infer haplotypes in 54 unrelated individuals of the sample, from which estimate of segregating haplotype frequencies and linkage disequilibrium (LD) between loci were computed. Genotype distributions were concordant with Hardy–Weinberg expectations (HWE) for all three loci, and allele distributions were similar to the ones observed in other Latin‐American populations. Of the 56 distinct three‐site (DQB1‐DQA1‐DRB1) haplotypes observed in the sample, the five most common (i.e., with frequencies of five counts or more) were: *0302‐*0301‐*04, *0201‐*0201‐*07, *0301‐*0501‐*14, *0402‐*0401‐*08, and *0501‐*0101‐*01. These common three‐locus haplotypes also contributed to the majority of the significant two‐locus linkage disequilibria of these three sites.
Humanized animal models for autoimmune diseases
Authors: Gregersen J.W. , Holmes S. , Fugger L.
Published: April 2004

Abstract:  The development of transgenic mice expressing human DR and DQ major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules has been of value in studying the immunopathology of human MHC class II‐associated autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus and celiac disease. Such mice have been used to identify the target antigens that are involved in the initiation of these diseases. Many of the mice develop aspects of the human diseases, either spontaneously or following immunization with the relevant antigen, thus providing an in vivo disease model, which may be used as a tool for further understanding the disease mechanisms and testing novel immunotherapies.
Sex allocation in Telenomus busseolae, a solitary parasitoid of concealed eggs: the influence of host patch size
Authors: Bayram Ahmet , Salerno Gianandrea , Conti Eric , Wajnberg Eric , Bin Ferdinando , Kornoşor Serpil
Published: April 2004

Telenomus busseolae Gahan (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) is an important egg parasitoid of noctuid stem borers of gramineous crops, attacking egg masses of Sesamia spp. Under natural conditions, and whatever the host species attacked, these egg masses are generally concealed under the leaf sheaths or other narrow spaces, and vary greatly in size. In the work presented here, the influence of host patch size (4, 8, 16, 32, 64, or 128 eggs per mass) on the sex ratio and sex sequence pattern of ovipositing T. busseolae was investigated in the laboratory using Sesamia nonagrioides (Lefebvre) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) as host. The results are similar to those described for other parasitoids of aggregated hosts, and are in accordance with the Local Mate Competition model. With increasing egg mass size, the overall sex ratio (proportion of males) decreased, although additional males were laid at the end of the sequence in the larger masses (64 and 128 eggs). Sex sequence pattern always followed a males‐first strategy, i.e., with a higher proportion of males at the beginning, but the whole sex ratio sequence was influenced by the size of the egg mass. Such results in a parasitoid of concealed eggs are compared to those observed in parasitoids of exposed eggs and discussed in terms of parasitoid reproductive strategies and evolutionary adaptations.
The Transesophageal Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Left Atrial Myxoma Simulating a Left Atrial Thrombus in the Setting of Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Mahdhaoui Abdallah , Bouraoui Hatem , Amine Majdoub Mohamed , Mokni M. Moncef , Besma Trimeche , Hajri Samia Ernez , Jeridi Gouider , Khelfa Mabrouk , Bahri Fathi , Yacoubi Tahar , Sriha B. Badreddine , Ammar Habib
Published: April 2004

We report the case of a 56‐year‐old woman with a history of rheumatic heart disease. The clinical, electrocardiographic, and radiologic findings suggested mitral stenosis. Left atrial obstructive myxoma simulating a thrombus was found by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). The diagnosis was established by use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), confirmed after surgery and by anatomical investigation. Cardiac myxoma associated with mitral stenosis may be difficult to diagnose accurately using TTE. The advantage of TEE in this case and in patients with mitral stenosis is emphasized. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 21, May 2004)
Congenital Submitral Aneurysm and Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm
Authors: Chockalingam Anand , Gnanavelu G. , Alagesan R. , Subramaniam T.
Published: April 2004

Submitral aneurysm (SMA) is congenital outpouching of the left ventricular (LV) wall invariably occurring adjacent to the posterior leaflet of mitral valve. SMA is typically diagnosed in young adults who present with severe mitral regurgitation, heart failure, systemic embolism, and sudden cardiac death. African blacks account for the majority of the reported SMA cases. Our report of the very rare combination of SMA with aortic sinus aneurysm lends support to the congenital origin of this pathology occurring due to developmental deficiency in the fusion of myocardium and cardiac fibro skeleton. Complete diagnosis was made by transthoracic echocardiography. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 21, May 2004)
A case of insensitivity to pain without anhidrosis: a new syndrome?
Authors: Sandroni P
Published: April 2004

Case Report: A 20‐year‐old man presented for evaluation following an episode of painless injury in which he almost amputated his thumb. Upon further questioning, the patient reported he rarely experienced physical (including visceral) pain and his mother provided support to his history recalling incidents occurring as a child. He does not experience itching either. His neurologic and general medical history was otherwise negative. His neurologic and general examination were unremarkable except for the inability to perceive painful (pinprick, pressure on Achilles’ tendons), hot and cold stimuli over his entire body, with some relative sparing over his chest, abdomen and back. Nerve conduction studies and needle examinations were normal. Quantitative sensory testing revealed normal threshold to vibration, relatively elevated threshold to cold and insensitivity to heat and pain. Autonomic reflex screen and thermoregulatory sweat test were normal. Sural nerve biopsy showed normal myelinated and unmyelinated fibers. MRI of head and cervical spine, and extensive laboratory testing were unremarkable. Conclusion: This patient differs from any other case described in the literature of pain insensitivity or pain indifference. Suspecting a central pathology, we prescribed naltrexone and retested his heat‐pain sensation after treatment. He perceived the probe as hotter. Unfortunately, he suffered unacceptable dysthymia from the medication and stopped it.
Correction of metachromatic leukodystrophies (MLD) in the mouse model by transplantation of genetically modified hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Quattrini A , Biffi A , Amadio S , Bertani I , Dina G , Del Carro U , Previtali S , Bordignon C , Naldini L
Published: April 2004

MLD is inborn lipidosis caused by the deficiency of the lysosomal enzymes arylsulfatase A (ARSA), which results in storage of undergraded sulfatides in the CNS and PNS, leading to progressive demyelination. Bone marrow transplant provides a clinically feasible method for permanently replacing deficient lysosomal enzyme activity. Using Lentiviral Vectors (LV), we efficiently transduced hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) ex vivo and evaluated the potential of their progeny to target therapeutic genes to the CNS and PNS of transplanted mice, and correct MLD phenotype in the mouse model. We proved extensive repopulation of CNS microglia and PNS endoneurial macrophages by transgene‐expressing cells. By transplanting HSC transduced with the ARSA gene, we reconstituted enzyme activity in the hematopoietic system of MLD mice at supranormal levels and prevented major disease manifestations: the complete protection from the development of the motor conduction impairment and of the neuropathological abnormalities (prevention of sulfatide accumulation and demyelination in CNS and PNS) typical of the disease. Remarkably, ex vivo gene therapy had a significantly higher therapeutic impact than wild‐type HSC transplantation on all examined parameters, highlighting the crucial role of enzyme over‐expression and indicating the likely occurrence of in vivo cross‐correction.
Cutaneous innervation in ross syndrome: a functional and morphological study in 8 patients
Authors: Nolano M , Provitera V , Perretti A , Saltalamacchia AM , Tugnoli V , Donadio V , Manganelli F , Santoro L
Published: April 2004

Ross syndrome is described as a very rare disorder characterized by segmental anhydrosis, hyporeflexia and tonic pupils. We observed 8 subjects (6 males and 2 females; age range 31–57 years) affected by Ross syndrome in the last 4 years. They had suffered heat intolerance for at least 7 years with severe impairment of thermoregulation before diagnosis of Ross syndrome was defined. All patients underwent neurological examination, electrophysiological study, quantitative sensory testing, Minor test, silastic imprint test, sympathetic skin response, cardiovascular reflexes and 3 mm punch biopsies from fingertip, thigh, leg and from residual hyperhydrotic areas. Skin samples were cut in 80‐micron sections and incubated with a panel of primary antibodies and then with secondary antibodies conjugated with fluorophores Cy2, Cy3, Cy5 to visualize neural and vascular structures. Different primary antibodies were used to distinguish myelinated and sensory and autonomic unmyelinated fibers. Digital images were obtained using a non‐laser confocal microscope (CARV, Atto Biosciences, Rockville MD, USA) and analyzed by dedicated image analysis software (Neurolucida, Microbrightfield, Willistone VT, USA). As we previously described in 3 patients (Perretti et al., Clin Neurophysiol, 2003), besides a lack of cholinergic sudomotor fibers we found a milder involvement of unmyelinated and myelinated sensory fibers. These morphological findings were in keeping with a moderate subclinical impairment of tactile and thermal thresholds and mechanical pain detection. Sensory nerve conduction study was normal indicating a very distal involvement of sensory nerve endings. This study confirms our previous observation that Ross syndrome is a degenerative process involving progressively, besides cholinergic autonomic fibers, sensory unmyelinated and myelinated nerve fibers.
Chronic relapsing polyneuropathy associated with hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Lus G , Vincitorio CM , Di Palma A , Carpo M , Allaria S , Cotrufo R
Published: April 2004

We report the case of a 50‐year‐old woman affected by a chronic latent Hepatitis B (H.B.V.) virus infection since the age of 35, who complained of several relapses of sub‐acute sensorimotor inflammatory polyneuropathy with albumino‐cytological dissociation, successfully treated with IVIg pulse therapy during acute phase and with chronic prednisone therapy. An exacerbation of H.B.V. infection, likely induced by corticosteroid administration, associated with marked increase in serum of hepatic enzymes and high H.B.V. DNA levels in blood, coincided with a severe worsening of the neuropathy. Laboratory investigations revealed, among others, elements of renal involvement (hypoalbuminemia, proteinuria). Immunofixation electrophoresis revealed an IgM (k) monoclonal gammopathy, antibody testing high level of IgM to GD1a (1/81920). Lamivudina, rituximab and IVIg were administered: renal and liver indexes re‐entered within the ranges, sensorimotor deficits had slow and incomplete remission. In this case, polyneuropathy could be an expression of systemic H.B.V. illness mediated by a specific immunogenic attack in the phase of chronic latent infection, mediated by immune‐complexes precipitation in the reactivation phase, as the renal involvement seems to suggest. The pathological mechanism is under discussion.