bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resonance in open harbours
Authors: Noiseux Claude F.
Published: April 2006

The effect of depth variations near the mouth of harbour-like geometries is investigated. It is found that some modes of oscillation that, for uniform depth, would decay rapidly can be trapped very effectively when moderate increases in depth occur at the seaward end of the harbour.
On the nonlinear stability of slowly varying time-dependent viscous flows
Authors: Hall P.
Published: April 2006

In this paper we investigate the manner in which finite-amplitude disturbances are set up in viscous fluid flows that are changing slowly in time. It is shown that, when the appropriate Reynolds or Rayleigh number is slowly increased, then, no matter how slowly this change takes place, there is always a short time interval where a quasi-steady approach breaks down. In this time interval a finite-amplitude solution is set up which ultimately approaches that predicted by a quasi-steady theory. In order to demonstrate our ideas we discuss the Taylor-vortex problem in a situation in which the speed of the inner cylinder changes slowly in time. In particular we discuss the case when the speed of the inner cylinder is modulated slowly in time and it is found that at low frequencies the disturbances of most physical relevance are not periodic solutions of the equations of motion.
An experimental study of gas exchange in laminar oscillatory flow
Authors: Joshi C. H. , Kamm R. D. , Drazen J. M. , Slutsky A. S.
Published: April 2006

Experiments were conducted to determine the effective diffusivity for axial transport through a tube of circular cross-section of a contaminant gas in oscillatory flow. Results were compared with the theoretical predictions of Watson (1983) and found to be in excellent agreement. The experiments differ from the theoretical situation in that the oscillations are superimposed upon a steady flow due to a constant infusion of tracer gas, and a buoyancy-induced flow associated with spatial variations in gas density. The influence of both artifacts is found to be negligible.
On the calculation of separation bubbles
Authors: Cebeci Tuncer , Stewartson Keith
Published: April 2006

The interactive boundary-layer equations for a flat plate are solved numerically when the external velocity field is piecewise linear and would provoke separation if the response of the boundary layer were neglected. A comparable problem had already been solved by Briley using the full Navier–Stokes equations. The equations are solved for various values of the Reynolds number and x0, a parameter defining the corner point of the external velocity. It is found that flows with a limited region of separation can be computed, but that, if x0 is too large, the numerical procedure breaks down. Furthermore, this maximum value is a decreasing function of R and seems to approach the value 0.12 predicted by classical theory as R → ∞. Comparison with Briley's results indicate a reasonable agreement except that different values of x0 are appropriate. It is conjectured that, once x0 increases above the acceptable maximum, rapid changes occur in the flow properties when R is large.
On the radial filling of a rotating cylinder
Authors: Ungarish M. , Greenspan H. P.
Published: April 2006

Some aspects of the radial filling of a finite rotating cylinder are considered in the limit of a small Ekman number E. Three main cases are distinguished by the value of τF, the ratio of filling and spin-up times. When τF [Lt ] 1 the effect of the Ekman layers is unimportant and new fluid accumulates behind that already contained by an essentially radial flux. For τF ∼ 1 the Ekman layers are active and entering fluid is added both ahead and behind the initially contained fluid core. which undergoes a process similar to spin-up with the notable difference that here the Ekman layers are non-divergent. In both cases the Rossby number ε is 0(1). When τF [Gt ] 1, ε is small and the Ekman layers control the (quasi-steady) filling. The new fluid is then transported through boundary layers and spread on the moving front from the inside throughout an E¼ layer imbedded in a weak E1/3 layer.
An experimental study of the mechanism of intermittent separation of a turbulent boundary layer
Authors: Wei Qing-Ding , Sato Hiroshi
Published: April 2006

A wind-tunnel investigation was made of the mechanism of separation of a two-dimensional turbulent boundary layer on a convex wall. The flow field was observed visually by using a large number of smoke wires arranged in various ways. Statistical quantities were obtained by newly developed direction-sensitive hot-wire probes and flow-direction meters. Smoke pictures show localized backflow spots in the separation region. They occur intermittently, grow downstream, merge with each other and eventually cover the whole flow field. Measurements of instantaneous flow direction show that velocity fluctuations in the separation region are strongly three-dimensional. The backflow factor, which is defined as the fraction of time of occurrence of backflow, is used for the quantitative description of the separation region. The role of large-scale ordered motions in the turbulent separation was investigated by use of the conditional sample and average technique. It was confirmed that a localized backflow is initiated by a large-scale low-speed lump of fluid which travels downstream.
Numerical predictions for laminar source-sink flow in a rotating cylindrical cavity
Authors: Chew J. W. , Owen J. M. , Pincombe J. R.
Published: April 2006

Numerical solutions are presented for steady, axisymmetric, laminar, isothermal, source–sink flow in a rotating cylindrical cavity. These results, which are in good agreement with previously published experimental work, have been used to give a fresh insight into the nature of the flow and to investigate the validity of other theoretical solutions. When the fluid enters the cavity through a central uniform radial source and leaves through an outer sink, it is shown that the flow near the disks can be approximated by two known analytical solutions. If the radial source is replaced by an axial inlet the flow becomes more complex, with a wall jet forming on the downstream disk at sufficiently high flow rates.
Dynamics of a vortex filament in a shear flow
Authors: Aref Hassan , Flinchem Edward P.
Published: April 2006

Motions of a single vortex filament in a background flow are studied by numerical simulation of a set of model equations. The model, which in essence is due to Hama, treats the self-interaction of the filament through the so-called ‘localized-induction approximation’ (LIA). Interaction with the prescribed background field is treated by simply advecting the filament appropriately. We are particularly interested in elucidating the evolution of sinuous vortices such as the ‘wiggle’ seen by Breidenthal in the transition to three-dimensionality in the mixing layer. The model studied embodies two of the simplest ingredients that must enter into any dynamical explanation: induction and advection. For finite-amplitude phenomena we make contact with the theory of solitons on strong vortices developed by Betchov and Hasimoto. In a shear, solitons cannot exist, but solitary waves can, and their interactions with the shear are found to be key ingredients for an understanding of the behaviour of the vortex filament. When sheared, a soliton seems to act as a ‘nucleation site’ for the generation of a family of waves. Computed sequences are shown that display a remarkable morphological similarity to flow-visualization studies. The present application of fully nonlinear dynamics to a model presents an attractive alternative to the extrapolations from linearized stability theory applied to the full equations that have so far constituted the theoretical basis for understanding the experimental results.
Computations of overturning waves
Authors: New A. L. , McIver P. , Peregrine D. H.
Published: April 2006

The numerical method of Longuet-Higgins & Cokelet (1976), for waves on deep water, is extended to account for a horizontal bottom contour, and used to investigate breaking waves in water of finite depth. It is demonstrated that a variety of overturning motions may be generated, ranging from the projection of a small-scale jet at the wave crest (of the type that might initiate a spilling breaker) to large-scale plunging breakers involving a significant portion of the wave. Although there seems to be a continuous transition between these wave types, a remarkable similarity is noticed in the overturning regions of many of the waves.

Three high-resolution computations are also discussed. The results are presented in the form of interrelated space-, velocity- and acceleration-plane plots which enable the time evolution of individual fluid particles to be followed. These computations should be found useful for the testing of analytical theories, and may also be applied, for example, to studies of slamming forces on shipping and coastal structures.
The effects of sidewall heat loss on convection in a saturated porous vertical slab
Authors: Kassoy D. R. , Cotte B.
Published: April 2006

The onset of natural convection is considered in a vertically oriented, thin, finite slab of saturated porous media when sidewall heat transfer exists. First, a linear stability analysis is carried out for a system with impermeable boundaries. The sidewall temperature increases linearly with depth while the smaller-area endwalls are insulated. Convection occurs when the Rayleigh number R is asymptotically large relative to the inverse square of the horizontal aspect ratio, H2 [Lt ] 1. The convection pattern is composed of an integer number of vertically oriented three-dimensional, finger-like cells. The wavelength of each cell, relative to the larger horizontal dimension of the slab, is proportional to H2½. This somewhat surprising type of modal configuration is also found when there is a specified vertical mass flux through the slab. In this second example one considers the characteristics of the 3-dimensional fully developed solution for the thin vertical-slab problem which is compatible with a linear temperature increase on the vertical walls. When R is like that found in the first problem, closely spaced finger-like cells are found superimposed on the generally upward fluid flow. It is concluded that sidewall heat loss has a very strong stabilizing effect on the initiation of buoyancy-induced convection relative to the more traditional situation where side- and endwalls are insulated. Furthermore the appearance of slender, finger-like convection cells is characteristic of motion in a narrow vertical-slab configuration. Finally it is noted that the precise modal configuration selected by a system is extremely sensitive to the value of the Rayleigh number.
Characteristics of a trailing-edge flow with turbulent boundary-layer separation
Authors: Thompson B. E. , Whitelaw J. H.
Published: April 2006

Experimental techniques, including flying-hot-wire anemometry, have been used to determine the pressure and velocity characteristics of a flow designed to simulate the trailing-edge region of an airfoil at high angle of attack. Emphasis is placed on the region of recirculating flow and on the downstream wake. It is shown that the effect of this recirculation is large even though the details of the flow within it may be unimportant. Normal stresses and cross-stream pressure gradients are important immediately upstream and downstream of the recirculating flow and are associated with strong streamline curvature. The relative importance of the terms in the transport equations for mean momentum and turbulence energy are quantified and the implications for procedures which solve potential-flow and boundary-layer equations and for alternative calculation methods are discussed.
Sonographie bei akuter Sigmadivertikulitis
Authors: Gritzmann  , Hübner
Published: April 2006

Die Ultraschalluntersuchung ist bei entsprechender Erfahrung des Untersuchers das erste bildgebende Verfahren beim schmerzhaften linken Unterbauch. Die Sigmadivertikulitis kann in über 90% sonographisch diagnostiziert werden. Bei unklarem sonographischen Befund sollte die Computertomographie eingesetzt werden, insbesondere wenn eine komplizierte Entzündung vorliegt. Die häufigsten Differentialdiagnosen des schmerzhaften linken Unterbauchs (Kolitiden, Appendagitis, Hämatome) sind zumeist sonographisch fassbar.
The size of the sync basin
Authors: Wiley Daniel A. , Strogatz Steven H. , Girvan Michelle
Published: April 2006

We suggest a new line of research that we hope will appeal to the nonlinear dynamics community, especially the readers of this Focus Issue. Consider a network of identical oscillators. Suppose the synchronous state is locally stable but not globally stable; it competes with other attractors for the available phase space. How likely is the system to synchronize, starting from a random initial condition? And how does the probability of synchronization depend on the way the network is connected? On the one hand, such questions are inherently difficult because they require calculation of a global geometric quantity, the size of the “sync basin” (or, more formally, the measure of the basin of attraction for the synchronous state). On the other hand, these questions are wide open, important in many real-world settings, and approachable by numerical experiments on various combinations of dynamical systems and network topologies. To give a case study in this direction, we report results on the sync basin for a ring of n⪢1 identical phase oscillators with sinusoidal coupling. Each oscillator interacts equally with its k nearest neighbors on either side. For k∕n greater than a critical value (approximately 0.34, obtained analytically), we show that the sync basin is the whole phase space, except for a set of measure zero. As k∕n passes below this critical value, coexisting attractors are born in a well-defined sequence. These take the form of uniformly twisted waves, each characterized by an integer winding number q, the number of complete phase twists in one circuit around the ring. The maximum stable twist is proportional to n∕k; the constant of proportionality is also obtained analytically. For large values of n∕k, corresponding to large rings or short-range coupling, many different twisted states compete for their share of phase space. Our simulations reveal that their basin sizes obey a tantalizingly simple statistical law: the probability that the final state has q twists follows a Gaussian distribution with respect to q. Furthermore, as n∕k increases, the standard deviation of this distribution grows linearly with n∕k. We have been unable to explain either of these last two results by anything beyond a hand-waving argument.
Conformational sampling via a self-regulating effective energy surface
Authors: Bitetti-Putzer Ryan , Dinner Aaron R. , Yang Wei , Karplus Martin
Published: April 2006

The difficulty of efficiently sampling the phase space of complex systems with rough energy surfaces is well known. Typical solutions to the problem involve accelerating the crossing of barriers, but such methods often have the secondary problem that the low-energy states of interest are inadequately sampled, unless the parameters of the search algorithm are modified as the system evolves. A method is presented to improve the sampling with particular emphasis on the low-energy conformations, which make the most important contributions to the thermodynamics of the system. The algorithm proposed here samples the details of the minima, while easily surmounting barriers. This is achieved by introducing a self-regulating sampling variable which depends on the current state of the system. Two replicas of the system are introduced and the sampling variable is treated as a particle coupled to the physical system. The method is illustrated with a simple model system and is applied to the realistic example of barrier crossing in a protein-ligand complex.
Suppression of orange-peel coupling in magnetic tunnel junctions by preoxidation
Authors: Egelhoff W. F. , McMichael R. D. , Dennis C. L. , Stiles M. D. , Shapiro A. J. , Maranville B. B. , Powell C. J.
Published: April 2006

We have found that preoxidation of the bottom Co electrode in magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) very effectively suppresses orange-peel coupling. The result is a free layer that is much softer. Work by others has demonstrated that preoxidation is compatible with high-quality MTJ fabrication.
Streptococcus massiliensis sp. nov., isolated from a patient blood culture
Authors: Glazunova Olga O. , Raoult Didier , Roux Véronique
Published: April 2006

An unidentified strain of the viridans group of streptococci was isolated from a human blood sample. It was distinguished from all other recognized species of the Streptococcus sanguinis group by several biochemical characteristics. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons clustered this strain with Streptococcus ferus (mutans group) but phylogenetic analysis based on rpoB and sodA gene sequence comparisons included it in the S. sanguinis group. The isolate showed 95.4 and 95.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to S. ferus and S. sanguinis, respectively, confirming it as belonging to a novel taxon, for which the name Streptococcus massiliensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 4401825T (=CIP 108498T=CCUG 49690T).
Eosinophilia: secondary, clonal and idiopathic
Authors: Tefferi Ayalew , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Pardanani Animesh
Published: April 2006

Blood eosinophilia signifies either a cytokine‐mediated reactive phenomenon (secondary) or an integral phenotype of an underlying haematological neoplasm (primary). Secondary eosinophilia is usually associated with parasitosis in Third World countries and allergic conditions in the West. Primary eosinophilia is operationally classified as being clonal or idiopathic, depending on the respective presence or absence of a molecular, cytogenetic or histological evidence for a myeloid malignancy. The current communication features a comprehensive clinical summary of both secondary and primary eosinophilic disorders with emphasis on recent developments in molecular pathogenesis and treatment.
Flexible architecture of inducible morphological plasticity
Authors: KISHIDA OSAMU , NISHIMURA KINYA
Published: April 2006

Predator‐induced morphological defences are produced in response to an emergent predator regime. In natural systems, prey organisms usually experience temporal shifting of the composition of the predator assemblage and of the intensity of predation risk from each predator species. Although, a repetitive morphological change in response to a sequential shift of the predator regime such as alteration of the predator species or diminution of the predation risk may be adaptive, such flexible inducible morphological defences are not ubiquitous.

We experimentally addressed whether a flexible inducible morphological defence is accomplished in response to serial changes in the predation regime, using a model prey species which adopt different defensive morphological phenotypes in response to different predator species.Rana pirica(Matsui) tadpoles increased body depth and tail depth against the predatory larval salamanderHynobius retardatus(Dunn); on the other hand, they only increased tail depth against the predatory larval dragonflyAeshna nigroflava(Martin).

Rana piricatadpoles with the predator‐specific phenotypes were subjected to removal or exchange of the predator species. After removal of the predator species, tadpoles with each predator‐specific phenotype changed their phenotype to the nondefensive basic one, suggesting that both predator‐specific phenotypes are costly to maintain. After an exchange of the predator species, tadpoles with each predator‐specific phenotype reciprocally, flexibly shifted their phenotype to the now more suitable predator‐specific one only by modifying their body part. The partial modification can effectively reduce time and energy expenditures involved in repetitive morphological changes, and therefore suggest that the costs of the flexible morphological changes are reduced.
Retrospective assessment of PASI 50 and PASI 75 attainment with a calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate ointment
Authors: Anstey Alex V. , Kragballe Knud
Published: April 2006

Background  The US National Psoriasis Foundation recently recommended that PASI 50 and PASI 75 response rates be used in clinical trials to enable comparisons across studies of different psoriasis therapies. To date, these response rates have not been reported for the two‐compound ointment containing calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate (Daivobet®/Dovobet®; LEO Pharma, Ballerup, Denmark). Further, in order to compare Daivobet® with other therapeutics recently presented to the European regulatory authorities and the FDA, comparison with the biologicals, efalizumab, etanercept and alefacept, were also made.

Objectives  To present the PASI 50 and PASI 75 results for the two‐compound ointment containing calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate.

Methods  Data from six phase III studies conducted with the two‐compound ointment were pooled and the PASI 50 and PASI 75 response rates calculated for patients with severe (PASI ≥ 17) or less severe disease (PASI < 17) at treatment commencement. Results for the biological therapies, efalizumab, etanercept and alefacept, were obtained from relevant published phase III studies.

Results  PASI 50 and PASI 75 were achieved by more patients treated with the two‐compound ointment than with the individual components. In patients with severe disease, the PASI 50 response rate after 4 weeks’ treatment was 88.8% with the two‐compound ointment, 69.2% with betamethasone dipropionate, 53.8% with calcipotriol, and 30.0% with ointment vehicle. In comparison, 12 weeks’ treatment with the biologicals resulted in PASI 50 response rates of 59% with efalizumab, 74% with etanercept, and 56% with alefacept.

Conclusions  The two‐compound ointment is effective, producing a PASI 50 and PASI 75 response in greater than 80% and 50% of patients, respectively, regardless of psoriasis severity.
Characterization of 11 polymorphic microsatellite loci in the yellowfin seabream Acanthopagrus latus
Authors: XIA J. H. , XIA K. F. , JIANG S. G.
Published: April 2006

The development and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the yellowfin seabream Acanthopagrus latus are presented. Allelic diversity was estimated in 50 samples collected from southeastern China. Eleven loci displayed polymorphism that ranged from 10 to 25 alleles per locus and the observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.48 to 0.91. These markers could be very useful for the study of population genetics of the yellowfin seabream.
Alterations of M‐cadherin, neural cell adhesion molecule and β‐catenin expression in satellite cells during overload‐induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy
Authors: Ishido M. , Uda Munehiro , Masuhara Mitsuhiko , Kami Katsuya
Published: April 2006

Aim:  Neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) and M‐cadherin are cell adhesion molecules expressed on the surface of skeletal muscle satellite cell (SC). During myogenic morphogenesis, M‐cadherin participates in mediating terminal differentiation and fusion of myoblasts by forming a complex with β‐catenin and that NCAM contributes to myotube formation by fusion of myoblasts. Hypertrophy and hyperplasia of functionally overloaded skeletal muscle results from the fusion with SCs into the existing myofibres or new myofibre formation by SC–SC fusion. However, the alterations of NCAM, M‐cadherin and β‐catenin expressions in SCs in response to functional overload have not been investigated.

Methods:  Using immunohistochemical approaches, we examined the temporal and spatial expression patterns of these factors expressed in SCs during the functional overload of skeletal muscles.

Results:  Myofibres with SCs showing NCAM+/M‐cadherin−, NCAM+/M‐cadherin+ or NCAM−/M‐cadherin+ were detected in overloaded muscles. The percentage changes of myofibres with SCs showing NCAM+/M‐cadherin−, NCAM+/M‐cadherin+ or NCAM−/M‐cadherin+ were elevated in day‐3 post‐overloaded muscles, and then only the percentage changes of myofibres with SCs showing NCAM−/M‐cadherin+ were significantly increased in day‐7 post‐overload muscles (P < 0.05). Both β‐catenin and M‐cadherin were co‐localized throughout quiescent, proliferation and differentiation stages of SCs.

Conclusion:  These results suggested that the expressions of NCAM, M‐cadherin and β‐catenin in SCs may be controlled by distinct regulatory mechanisms during functional overload, and that interactions among NCAM, M‐cadherin and β‐catenin in SCs may play important roles to contribute to overload‐induced muscle hypertrophy via fusion with each other or into the existing myofibres of SCs.
Squishy Materials
Authors: Habdas Piotr , Weeks Eric R. , Lynn David G.
Published: April 2006

Most people do not realize that many substances they use in the kitchen and the bathroom are not simple liquids or solids. Everyone is familiar with three states of matter: solids, liquids, and gases. However, creams, shampoo, toothpaste, and ketchup all have properties of both liquids and solids. This paper describes demonstrations and laboratory exercises1 that show intriguing properties of squishy substances, defined as materials that are not unambiguously solid, liquid, or gas. Unlike some areas of physics, the concepts behind squishy materials are understandable even by beginning students. Squishy physics can be used to show physics questions arising from everyday life and to convey the excitement of current research.
“…Run, Forrest! Run!…”: A Powerful “Hollywood Physics” Activity
Authors: Dennis Chandler
Published: April 2006

The use of short episodes from current big screen movies to drive home topics in general physics—known as “Hollywood Physics”—has received significant exposure in teaching circles.1,2 This paper details use of a video segment that can be used to actually begin a physics course during the first class meeting in the fall.3
ANALYTICAL BETHE ANSATZ FOR OPEN SPIN CHAINS WITH SOLITON NONPRESERVING BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
Authors: ARNAUDON D. , DOIKOU A. , FRAPPAT L. , RAGOUCY É. , CRAMPÉ N.
Published: April 2006

We present an "algebraic treatment" of the analytical Bethe ansatz for open spin chains with soliton nonpreserving (SNP) boundary conditions. For this purpose, we introduce abstract monodromy and transfer matrices which provide an algebraic framework for the analytical Bethe ansatz. It allows us to deal with a generic [Formula: see text] open SNP spin chain possessing on each site an arbitrary representation. As a result, we obtain the Bethe equations in their full generality. The classification of finite dimensional irreducible representations for the twisted Yangians are directly linked to the calculation of the transfer matrix eigenvalues.
GABAergic Protection of Hippocampal Pyramidal Neurons Against Glutamate Insult: Deficit in Young Animals Compared to Adults
Authors: Azimi-Zonooz Aryan , Shuttleworth C. William , Connor John A.
Published: April 2006

Hypoxia-ischemia (HI) injury in neonatal animals leads to selective regional loss of neurons including CA1 and CA3 pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus as well as nonlethal pathologies. Glutamate-receptor over-activation and Ca2+influx are involved in these neonatal changes. We examined glutamate-evoked Ca2+responses in neonatal (PN 7–13) and young adult (PN 21–27) CA1 pyramidal neurons in acute slices from rats. In neonates, transient exposure to glutamate produced large Ca2+increases throughout neurons, including distal dendrites (primary Ca2+responses). Repeated exposures resulted in sustained Ca2+increases in apical dendrites (secondary Ca2+responses) that were independent of continued glutamate exposure. These responses propagated and invaded the soma, resulting in irrecoverably high Ca2+elevations. In neurons from adults, identical glutamate exposure evoked primary Ca2+responses only in somata and proximal apical dendrites. Repeated glutamate exposures in the adult neurons also led to secondary Ca2+responses, but they arose in the peri-somatic region and then spread outward to distal apical dendrites, again without recovery. More stimuli were required to initiate secondary responses in neurons from adult versus neonates. Block of GABAAreceptors in adults caused the primary and secondary responses to revert to the spatial pattern seen in the neonates and greatly increased their vulnerability to glutamate. These findings suggest that neurodegenerative secondary Ca2+events may be important determinants of susceptibility to HI injury in the developing CNS and that immature CA1 neurons may be more susceptible to excitotoxic injury due at least in part to insufficient development of GABAergic inputs to their dendrites.
High-Energy Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy as a Treatment for Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Furia John Patrick
Published: April 2006

Background

Results of high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy for the treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy are not determined. It is unclear how local anesthesia alters the outcome of this procedure.

Hypothesis

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is an effective treatment for insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Local anesthesia field block adversely affects outcome.

Study Design

Case control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Thirty-five patients with chronic insertional Achilles tendinopathy were treated with 1 dose of high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT group; 3000 shocks; 0.21 mJ/mm2; total energy flux density, 604 mJ/mm2), and 33 were treated with nonoperative therapy (control group). All extracorporeal shock wave therapy procedures were performed using a local anesthesia field block (LA subgroup, 12 patients) or a nonlocal anesthesia (NLA subgroup, 23 patients). Evaluation was by visual analog score and by Roles and Maudsley score.

Results

One month, 3 months, and 12 months after treatment, the mean visual analog score for the control and ESWT groups were 8.2 and 4.2 (P < .001), 7.2 and 2.9 (P < .001), and 7.0 and 2.8 (P < .001), respectively. Twelve months after treatment, the number of patients with successful Roles and Maudsley scores was statistically greater in the ESWT group compared with the control group (P > .0002), with 83% of ESWT group patients having a successful result, and the mean improvement in visual analog score for the LA subgroup was significantly less than that in the NLA subgroup (F = 16.77 vs F = 53.95, P < .001). The percentage of patients with successful Roles and Maudsley scores did not differ among the LA and NLA subgroups.

Conclusion

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is an effective treatment for chronic insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Local field block anesthesia may decrease the effectiveness of this procedure.
Refined localization of the FAT1 quantitative trait locus on pig chromosome 4 by marker-assisted backcrossing
Authors: Berg Frida , Stern Susanne , Andersson Kjell , Andersson Leif , Moller Maria
Published: April 2006

Background

A major QTL for fatness and growth, denoted FAT1, has previously been detected on pig chromosome 4q (SSC4q) using a Large White – wild boar intercross. Progeny that carried the wild boar allele at this locus had higher fat deposition, shorter length of carcass, and reduced growth. The position and the estimated effects of the FAT1 QTL for growth and fatness have been confirmed in a previous study. In order to narrow down the QTL interval we have traced the inheritance of the wild boar allele associated with high fat deposition through six additional backcross generations.

Results

Progeny-testing was used to determine the QTL genotype for 10 backcross sires being heterozygous for different parts of the broad FAT1 region. The statistical analysis revealed that five of the sires were segregating at the QTL, two were negative while the data for three sires were inconclusive. We could confirm the QTL effects on fatness/meat content traits but not for the growth traits implying that growth and fatness are controlled by distinct QTLs on chromosome 4. Two of the segregating sires showed highly significant QTL effects that were as large as previously observed in the F2 generation. The estimates for the remaining three sires, which were all heterozygous for smaller fragments of the actual region, were markedly smaller. With the sample sizes used in the present study we cannot with great confidence determine whether these smaller effects in some sires are due to chance deviations, epistatic interactions or whether FAT1 is composed of two or more QTLs, each one with a smaller phenotypic effect. Under the assumption of a single locus, the critical region for FAT1 has been reduced to a 3.3 cM interval between the RXRG and SDHC loci.

Conclusion

We have further characterized the FAT1 QTL on pig chromosome 4 and refined its map position considerably, from a QTL interval of 70 cM to a maximum region of 20 cM and a probable region as small as 3.3 cM. The flanking markers for the small region are RXRG and SDHC and the orthologous region of FAT1 in the human genome is located on HSA1q23.3 and harbors approximately 20 genes. Our strategy to further refine the map position of this major QTL will be i) to type new markers in our pigs that are recombinant in the QTL interval and ii) to perform Identity-By-Descent (IBD) mapping across breeds that have been strongly selected for lean growth.
An investigation of minimisation criteria
Authors: Wade Angie , Pan Huiqi , Eaton Simon , Pierro Agostino , Ong Evelyn
Published: April 2006

Background

Minimisation can be used within treatment trials to ensure that prognostic factors are evenly distributed between treatment groups. The technique is relatively straightforward to apply but does require running tallies of patient recruitments to be made and some simple calculations to be performed prior to each allocation. As computing facilities have become more widely available, minimisation has become a more feasible option for many. Although the technique has increased in popularity, the mode of application is often poorly reported and the choice of input parameters not justified in any logical way.

Methods

We developed an automated package for patient allocation which incorporated a simulation arm. We here demonstrate how simulation of data can help to determine the input parameters to be used in a subsequent application of minimisation.

Results

Several scenarios were simulated. Within the selected scenarios, increasing the number of factors did not substantially adversely affect the extent to which the treatment groups were balanced with respect to the prognostic factors. Weighting of the factors tended to improve the balance when factors had many categories with only a slight negative effect on the factors with fewer categories. When interactions between factors were included as minimisation factors, there was no major reduction in the balance overall.

Conclusion

With the advent of widely available computing facilities, researchers can be better equipped to implement minimisation as a means of patient allocation. Simulations prior to study commencement can assist in the choice of minimisation parameters and can be used to justify those selections.
A randomized cross over trial of tolerability and compliance of a micronutrient supplement with low iron separated from calcium vs high iron combined with calcium in pregnant women [ISRCTN56071145]
Authors: Ahn Eric , Pairaudeau Nicholas , Pairaudeau Nicholas , Cérat Yves , Couturier Bernard , Fortier Andre , Paradis Éric , Koren Gideon
Published: April 2006

Background

Prenatal micronutrient combinations with high iron content are associated with high rates of gastrointestinal symptoms. This coupled with nausea and vomiting of pregnancy results in women often discontinuing their multivitamins.

A new prescription supplement (PregVit®) that separates iron from calcium in two tablets – morning and evening, has lower elemental iron content (35 mg), but results in similar extent of iron absorption when compared to another supplement containing (60 mg) of elemental iron (Materna®). The objectives of this study were to compare tolerability and compliance with PregVit®vs. a supplement with high iron content (Materna®), in pregnant women.

Methods

Randomized, crossover open labeled study in 135 pregnant women attending outpatient clinics in Ontario and Quebec.

Results

Use of PregVit®was associated with a 30% reduction in constipation rate as compared to Materna®. Both products demonstrated similar compliance rates.

Compliance of Materna®was negatively associated with the severity of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. No such correlation was found for PregVvit®.

Conclusion

PregVit®, a supplement with lower iron content (35 mg), has significantly decreased constipation rates as compared to 60 mg iron- Materna and has similar compliance rates. High iron content in multivitamin supplements is associated with adverse effects in pregnancy.
The effect of web based depression interventions on self reported help seeking: randomised controlled trial [ISRCTN77824516]
Authors: Christensen Helen , Leach Liana S , Barney Lisa , Mackinnon Andrew J , Griffiths Kathy M
Published: April 2006

Background

To date, there has been very little work investigating behaviour changes induced by interventions that are designed to increase help seeking. The present paper examines the effects of two Internet depression websites on help seeking.

Methods

414 individuals with elevated scores on a depression assessment scale were randomly allocated to a depression information website, a cognitive-behavioural skills training website (CBT) or an attention control condition. Reports of help seeking for specific treatments, from specific sources and for categories of treatments were assessed.

Results

Relative to the control, the depression information site was associated with decreases in seeking support from friends and family, the use of music and of everyday treatments and no increase in seeking evidence based interventions. The CBT site was associated with the report of help seeking for CBT, massage and exercise.

Conclusion

Methods to encourage the use of evidence-based treatments need further research to determine whether the assistance sought is evidence based and whether there are unintended effects.
Human rights, health and the state in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Redwanur M
Published: April 2006

Background

This paper broadly discusses the role of the State of Bangladesh in the context of the health system and human rights. The interrelation between human rights, health and development are well documented. The recognition of health as a fundamental right by WHO and subsequent approval of health as an instrument of welfare by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the International Covenant on Social, Economic and Cultural Rights (ICSECR) further enhances the idea. Moreover, human rights are also recognized as an expedient of human development. The state is entrusted to realize the rights enunciated in the ICSECR.

Discussion

In exploring the relationship of the human rights and health situation in Bangladesh, it is argued, in this paper, that the constitution and major policy documents of the Bangladesh government have recognized the health rights and development. Bangladesh has ratified most of the international treaties and covenants including ICCPR, ICESCR; and a signatory of international declarations including Alma-Ata, ICPD, Beijing declarations, and Millennium Development Goals. However the implementation of government policies and plans in the development of health institutions, human resources, accessibility and availability, resource distribution, rural-urban disparity, the male-female gap has put the health system in a dismal state. Neither the right to health nor the right to development has been established in the development of health system or in providing health care.

The development and service pattern of the health system have negative correlation with human rights and contributed to the underdevelopment of Bangladesh. The government should take comprehensive approach in prioritizing the health rights of the citizens and progressive realization of these rights.
Corto and DSP1 interact and bind to a maintenance element of the Scr Hox gene: understanding the role of Enhancers of trithorax and Polycomb
Authors: Salvaing Juliette , Decoville Martine , Mouchel-Vielh Emmanuèle , Bussière Marianne , Daulny Anne , Boldyreva Lidiya , Zhimulev Igor , Locker Daniel , Peronnet Frédérique
Published: April 2006

Background

Polycomb-group genes (PcG) encode proteins that maintain homeotic (Hox) gene repression throughout development. Conversely, trithorax-group (trxG) genes encode positive factors required for maintenance of long term Hox gene activation. Both kinds of factors bind chromatin regions called maintenance elements (ME). Our previous work has shown that corto, which codes for a chromodomain protein, and dsp1, which codes for an HMGB protein, belong to a class of genes called the Enhancers of trithorax and Polycomb (ETP) that interact with both PcG and trxG. Moreover, dsp1 interacts with the Hox gene Scr, the DSP1 protein is present on a Scr ME in S2 cells but not in embryos. To understand better the role of ETP, we addressed genetic and molecular interactions between corto and dsp1.

Results

We show that Corto and DSP1 proteins co-localize at 91 sites on polytene chromosomes and co-immunoprecipitate in embryos. They interact directly through the DSP1 HMG-boxes and the amino-part of Corto, which contains a chromodomain. In order to search for a common target, we performed a genetic interaction analysis. We observed that corto mutants suppressed dsp1

1
sex comb phenotypes and enhanced Antp

Scx
phenotypes, suggesting that corto and dsp1 are simultaneously involved in the regulation of Scr. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation of the Scr ME, we found that Corto was present on this ME both in Drosophila S2 cells and in embryos, whereas DSP1 was present only in S2 cells.

Conclusion

Our results reveal that the proteins Corto and DSP1 are differently recruited to a Scr ME depending on whether the ME is active, as seen in S2 cells, or inactive, as in most embryonic cells. The presence of a given combination of ETPs on an ME would control the recruitment of either PcG or TrxG complexes, propagating the silenced or active state.
tRNAHis guanylyltransferase adds G−1 to the 5′ end of tRNAHis by recognition of the anticodon, one of several features unexpectedly shared with tRNA synthetases
Authors: Jackman Jane E. , Phizicky Eric M.
Published: April 2006

All eukaryotic tRNAHis molecules are unique among tRNA species because they require addition of a guanine nucleotide at the −1 position by tRNAHis guanylyltransferase, encoded in yeast by THG1. This G−1 residue is both necessary and sufficient for aminoacylation of tRNA by histidyl-tRNA synthetase in vitro and is required for aminoacylation in vivo. Although Thg1 is presumed to be highly specific for tRNAHis to prevent misacylation of tRNAs, the source of this specificity is unknown. We show here that Thg1 is >10,000-fold more selective for its cognate substrate tRNAHis than for the noncognate substrate tRNAPhe. We also demonstrate that the GUG anticodon of tRNAHis is a crucial Thg1 identity element, since alteration of this anticodon in tRNAHis completely abrogates Thg1 activity, and the simple introduction of this GUG anticodon to any of three noncognate tRNAs results in significant Thg1 activity. For tRNAPhe, kcat/KM is improved by at least 200-fold. Thg1 is the only protein other than aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases that is known to use the anticodon as an identity element to discriminate among tRNA species while acting at a remote site on the tRNA, an unexpected link given the lack of any identifiable sequence similarity between these two families of proteins. Moreover, Thg1 and tRNA synthetases share two other features: They act in close proximity to one another at the top of the tRNA aminoacyl-acceptor stem, and the chemistry of their respective reactions is strikingly similar.
Research Note—Using Basket Composition Data for Intelligent Supermarket Pricing
Authors: Kumar Nanda , Rao Ram
Published: April 2006

How can supermarkets use the vast data they have to design strategies to compete for large-basket shoppers, potentially their most profitable customers? We say, analyze the data to glean basket composition of heterogeneous consumers. Of theoretical and practical interest is the question, will our suggestion improve supermarket profits, and if so, by what pricing strategies? By answering this we can also answer the question, do results of extant research on single-product marketing that using such information intensifies competition and lowers profits, generalize to multiproduct marketing by supermarkets that carry several products, and whose patrons purchase multiple items? We derive equilibrium data-based intelligent pricing strategies that also produce increased supermarket profits. What is more interesting is our result that data analysis is profitable whether or not a competitor undertakes data analysis. If not too costly, implementing data analysis is a dominant strategy. Moreover, with comprehensive data analysis connecting basket information and household data, stores can increase profits further by targeting rewards at individual households, thereby segmenting the market more completely. In contrast to past research findings, we show that for supermarkets, even under competition, use of information on past purchases enables intelligent pricing, better segmentation, and higher profits.
Regulating Long-Term Impacts on the Scottish Landscape: Quarries, Dams and Forestry
Authors: Reid Colin T. , Pillai Aylwin L. , Black Andrew R.
Published: April 2006

Many projects creating long-term impacts that are visible on the Scottish landscape today were authorised at a time when environmental sensitivities were less well developed. This paper examines the development of the regulatory mechanisms for three major landscape impacts: mineral workings, hydro-electric schemes and forestry. Today, the requirement for environmental impact assessment provides one common element in all three cases, but there are marked differences. The most notable is the control of most forestry planting by economic instruments rather than any formal authorisation procedure. Given the long-term effects of these projects on the landscape, a major issue is the extent to which authorisations can be reviewed to reflect modern concerns and revised in future as physical conditions or public knowledge or attitudes change. Only in relation to mineral workings does the legislative scheme make provision for this.