bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring sensation in the feet of patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wilson Oonagh , Kirwan John R
Published: March 2006

Objectives: (1) To determine the test–retest reliability of monofilaments pressed against the skin as a method of assessing sensation in the feet of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and in controls using two grades of monofilaments; (2) to determine the stability of findings over 6 weeks; and (3) to calculate initial estimates of frequency of loss of sensation and to investigate its association with disease status.

Method: Clinical examination of the feet was undertaken in 51 patients with RA and 20 normal controls. Six sites on each foot were tested twice with both 10 g and 3 g research grade monofilaments and this was repeated after 6 weeks. Disease status was measured using the Disease Activity Score, the Health Assessment Questionnaire, visual analogue scales of pain, and the acute phase response using erythrocyte sedimentation rate and plasma viscosity.

Results: Reproducibility was high for 3 g (kappa = 0.73) and 10 g (kappa = 0.75) monofilaments. The best balance between sensitivity (58.8%) and specificity (87.5%) for distinguishing the feet of patients from the feet of controls was using the 3 g filament and defining reduced protective sensation as being sensitive to less than 11 of 12 applications. Using this definition, the prevalence of reduced protective sensation is 59% in the patient group and 12.5% in the feet of controls. There was some variation in sensation over 6 weeks in the patient group, but this was not related to measures of clinical status.

Conclusion: The use of monofilaments in assessing sensation levels in the RA foot is repeatable and reproducible over a six‐week period and requires only a short time to perform. The frequency of reduced sensation in the feet of patients with RA was greater than previously reported. Future studies should assess relationships with disease duration and inflammatory status. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled radical copolymerization of β‐pinene and acrylonitrile
Authors: Li An‐Long , Wang Yi , Liang Hui , Lu Jiang
Published: March 2006

The feasibility of the radical copolymerization of β‐pinene and acrylonitrile was clarified for the first time. The monomer reactivity ratios evaluated by the Fineman–Ross method were rβ‐pinene = 0 and racrylonitrile = 0.66 in dichloroethane at 60 °C with AIBN, which indicated that the copolymerization was a simple alternating copolymerization. The addition of the Lewis acid Et2AlCl increased the copolymerization rate and enhanced the incorporation of β‐pinene. The first example for the synthesis of an almost perfectly alternating copolymer of β‐pinene and acrylonitrile was achieved in the presence of Et2AlCl. Furthermore, the possible controlled copolymerization of β‐pinene and acrylonitrile was then attempted via the reversible addition–fragmentation transfer (RAFT) technique. At a low β‐pinene/acrylonitrile feed ratio of 10/90 or 25/75, the copolymerization with 2‐cyanopropyl‐2‐yl dithiobenzoate as the transfer agent displayed the typical features of living polymerization. However, the living character could be observed only within certain monomer conversions. At higher monomer conversions, the copolymerizations deviated from the living behavior, probably because of the competitive degradative chain transfer of β‐pinene. The β‐pinene/acrylonitrile copolymers with a high alternation degree and controlled molecular weight were also obtained by the combination of the RAFT agent cumyl dithiobenzoate and Lewis acid Et2AlCl. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 2376–2387, 2006
Synthesis of PVC‐g‐PS through stereoselective nucleophilic substitution on PVC
Authors: Martínez Gerardo
Published: March 2006

The substitution reaction of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) with sodium azide was performed in cyclohexanone. The evolution of unreacted iso‐, hetero‐ and syndiotactic triad contents with the degree of substitution has been followed by 13C NMR spectroscopy. By quantitatively comparing the microstructure changes with degree of substitution, taking into account that the reaction is of SN2 type, only the mechanisms of substitution through the mm triad of mmr tetrad and the rm of rrmr pentads are shown to react. This conclusion was confirmed by FT‐IR. From this stereospecific chemical modification of PVC, the thermal decomposition of azide‐modified PVC and the consequent reaction with styrene offer a method for the preparation of stereoselective graft copolymers. After grafting, no variation of the microstructure of the chain has been demonstrated. These results have been used to study the effect of the aforementioned structures on the evolution of density as a function of free‐volume of the graft copolymers, and thus provide new approaches to a better understanding of the structure‐properties relationships at the molecular level. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 2476–2486, 2006
The influence of thermoelastomers on the crystallization behavior of isotactic polypropylene under shear
Authors: Li Liangbin , Zhang Ling
Published: March 2006

The crystallization behaviors of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) and its blends with thermoelastomers have been investigated with in situ X‐ray scattering and optic microscopy. At quiescent condition, the crystallization kinetics of iPP is not affected by the presence of elastomers; while determined by the viscosity, the differences are observed on sheared samples. With a fixed shear strain, the crystallization rate increases with increasing the shear rate. The fraction of oriented lamellar crystals in blends is higher than that in pure iPP sample, while the percentage of β phase is reduced by the presence of the elastomers. On the basis of experimental results, no direct correlation among the fraction of oriented lamellae, the percentage of β phase, and growth rate can be deduced. The evolution of the fraction of oriented lamellae supports that shear field promotes nucleation rather than growth process. Shear flow induces the formation of nuclei not only with preferring orientation but also with random orientation. The total density of nuclei, which determines the crystallization kinetics, does not control the ratio between nuclei with and without preferring orientation, which determines the fraction of oriented lamellae. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 1188–1198, 2006
Who are the visitors? characteristics of temporary movers in Australia
Authors: Bell Martin , Brown Dominic
Published: March 2006

Comparison of place of enumeration at the Census with place of usual residence provides a unique window on the geography and characteristics of temporary population movements. This paper uses microdata from the 2001 Australian Census in a logistic regression framework to examine the characteristics of temporary movers classified according to distance of travel and purpose of move. We show that the age composition of temporary movers varies according to distance of move. For non‐local work‐related travel, the most significant predictors are being male, maritally unattached and working either in extractive industries or government and defence. Travel for consumption shows more balanced sex ratios but is selective of older age groups, and of those who are unemployed or outside the labour force. Both types of move are strongly associated with income. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Young caregivers in the context of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Robson E. , Ansell N. , Huber U. S. , Gould W. T. S. , van Blerk L.
Published: March 2006

Against a background of rising adult mortality and morbidity in the context of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in sub‐Saharan Africa, this paper provides both quantitative and qualitative evidence for the existence of a largely neglected group of young people with increased responsibility for caregiving. Using questionnaire surveys, focus groups, storyboards and in‐depth interviews in three studies across Southern and Eastern Africa some young people in Lesotho, Tanzania and Zimbabwe are found to devote considerable time and energy to caring for sick members of their households. Examination of the tasks carried out by these youngsters finds them to be burdened beyond usual familial and societal expectations of children's ‘normal’ contributions to the reproduction of households via domestic chores and suchlike. It is concluded that these young people can be described as ‘young carers’. The three studies are presented to illuminate different socio‐spatial aspects of caregiving by young people. First, using qualitative data from Lesotho the range of caring tasks young caregivers perform for care recipients – usually a grandmother, parent, or sibling – is identified. Second, the impact caregiving responsibilities have on children's primary school attendance is examined using survey data from Tanzania. Third, the wider negative and positive impacts of caregiving including loss of friends and gaining of emotional maturity for young carers and their households is explored with in‐depth individual interviews from Zimbabwe. Finally, suggestions are made for further research to deepen understanding of the geographies of caring within the context of the population geographies of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in sub‐Saharan Africa and beyond. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of PBE0 for evaluating the absorption spectra of carbonyl molecules
Authors: Wathelet Valérie , Preat Julien , Bouhy Michaël , Fontaine Michèle , Perpète Eric A. , André Jean‐Marie , Jacquemin Denis
Published: March 2006

Using the parameter‐free PBE0 hybrid functional, we compute the UV/Vis spectra of a series of solvated compounds presenting a carbonyl chromophoric unit linked to a carbon–carbon double bond. It turns out that PBE0 is extremely efficient for accurately reproducing experimental values, with a mean unsigned error of 7 nm for an extended set of compounds, although no fitting or statistical treatments are performed. PBE0 has a predictive efficiency comparable to the well‐known Woodward–Fieser empirical formula, and can therefore be used to extend these rules without requiring additional experimental results. Consequently, the UV/Vis spectra of several compounds that have not yet been synthesized are predicted. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2006
Acquisition of learning processing in a navigation task using a functional parts combination model
Authors: Ogawa Akitoshi , Omori Takashi
Published: March 2006

In past studies of intelligent systems for problem solving, the internal structure of the system that determines the output for problem solving, that is, the computation process, is confined to the process built in by the designer. Thus, the program must be rewritten manually, even for a problem of similar type which can be handled by modifications. To deal with this point, we propose the functional parts combination (FPC) model, which can acquire different computation processes according to the individual problem. With the navigation of a mobile agent as a sample problem, the search power of the FPC model for the computation process is demonstrated by computer simulation for the case in which systems with different structures are applied to the same problem, and for the case in which a system with the same structure is applied to multiple problems. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 37(4): 64–76, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20272
Intraoperative 3D visualization for surgical field deformation with geometric pattern projection
Authors: Hayashibe Mitsuhiro , Suzuki Naoki , Kobayashi Susumu , Nakata Norio , Hattori Asaki , Suzuki Shigeyuki , Otake Yoshito , Nakamura Yoshihiko
Published: March 2006

Recently there have been many efforts to investigate navigation technology and apply it in various clinical fields in which the target position in the surgical region is indicated during surgery. The objective is to facilitate an intuitive understanding of the surgical region by the surgeon, so that the accuracy of the surgery can be improved. Currently, the position of the surgical area is usually measured by a magnetic sensor or a marker‐type optical 3D position sensor. In navigation of hard tissue such as bone, the target is rigid, and the position of the target can be measured from several discrete point markers. In navigation of soft tissue such as the body surface and the liver, where the shape and the position can change easily, a position sensor which can measure the state of modification in the form of time‐series surface data is required. In the method proposed here in order to deal with this problem, a geometrical pattern is projected on the target by a PC projector and is captured in real time from various directions with using DV cameras. This biological deformation measurement system can be easily installed in an operating room and can simultaneously measure and visualize the 3D shape and the textural information of the target. An animal experiment was performed. Surface shape time‐series data were used and were updated from time to time during the surgery, and registration of the target organ model was performed before the surgery. Data‐fusion processing was performed, displaying the measured surface data of the surgical region together with an internal structure model of the organ. The results are reported. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 37(4): 45–54, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20449
Superhigh‐definition digital cinema distribution system with 8‐million‐pixel resolution
Authors: Yamaguchi Takahiro , Fujii Tatsuya , Nomura Mitsuru , Shirai Daisuke , Shirakawa Kazuhiro , Fujii Tetsuro
Published: March 2006

We developed a prototype superhigh‐definition (SHD) digital cinema system that can store, transmit, and display extrahigh‐quality movies with a resolution of 8 million pixels, using JPEG2000 coding algorithm. The spatial resolution on image quality is four times better than HDTV, and surpasses that of 35‐mm cinefilm. The system is comprised of three principal apparatus designed for SHD movies: a video server, a real‐time decoder, and a projector. The movie data digitized by scanning the cinefilm is compressed using JPEG2000 coding algorithm and stored in the video server in advance. Using Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) links and TCP/IP protocols, the server transmits the compressed digital movie data stream of 300 to 450 Mbps to a real‐time decoder. The decoder receives the compressed data stream, and outputs a raw, uncompressed, 10‐bit R/G/B digital video signal using a parallel‐processor mechanism in real time. The projector reproduces the SHD movie using three reflective LCD panels (D‐ILA), one for each 10‐bit R/G/B color, while receiving the raw digital video signal through the special video interfaces. This system enables us to distribute digital cinema of original 35‐mm cinefilm quality via the GbE network. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 37(4): 35–44, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20465
Discrimination of old/young persons from acceleration data during walking based on neural networks
Authors: Morita Yoshifumi , Kakami Hironori , Ukai Hiroyuki , Kando Hisashi
Published: March 2006

An analytical algorithm based on neural networks is proposed for the problem of discrimination of seven subjects into the two groups of old persons and young persons on the basis of acceleration data during walking. An old person model and a young person model are constructed using neural networks, and subjects are discriminated by comparison of the degree to which the subject data match the models. To improve discrimination accuracy, a method is further proposed in which data that clearly manifest a difference in the degree of matching are added to learning data, and model reconstruction is iterated. Frequency analysis is also used to extract and quantify a feature from data on old persons and young persons and to discriminate this characteristic quantity by comparison of the degree of similarity between subjects and old persons/young persons. Validity of the discrimination results based on neural networks is examined by comparison with the results of frequency analysis. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 37(4): 1–10, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20499
Surface Nanopatterning by Organic/Inorganic Self‐Assembly and Selective Local Functionalization
Authors: Fisher Anna , Kuemmel Monika , Järn Michael , Linden Mika , Boissière Cédric , Nicole Lionel , Sanchez Clément , Grosso David
Published: March 2006

Patterning silicon surfaces by well‐ordered nanoperforated TiO2 layers is achieved through a simple block copolymer‐assisted liquid deposition technique followed by direct thermal treatment. The crater diameters are tuned between 10 and 50 nm, depending on the molecular weight of the surfactant patterning agent. The formation mechanism of such systems is discussed. The present nanopatterned heterogeneous surfaces (nanoholes with SiO2 bottom surfaces and TiO2 walls) are selectively functionalized with two different perfluorinated organic groups. The accessibility to the substrate surface through such nanoholes and the selective distribution of both functions on the surface is evidenced by water‐contact‐angle measurements, which satisfactorily verify the Cassie relationship. Such systems have wide application prospects in varied fields such as nanotechnology and engineering.
Conversion of a Bi Nanowire Array to an Array of Bi–Bi2O3 Core–Shell Nanowires and Bi2O3 Nanotubes
Authors: Li Liang , Yang You‐Wen , Li Guang‐Hai , Zhang Li‐De
Published: March 2006

A template‐based heat‐treatment method has been developed to convert metal nanowire arrays into arrays of metal–metal oxide core–shell nanowires and single‐crystalline metal oxide nanotubes. This process is demonstrated by kinetically controlling the conversion of single‐crystalline Bi nanowires to Bi–Bi2O3 core–shell nanowires via a multistep, slow oxidation method, and then controlling their further conversion to a single‐crystalline Bi2O3 nanotube array via fast oxidation. This process can conveniently be extended to fabricate a free‐standing, easily oxidized metal–metal oxide nanowire and metal oxide nanotube array, which may have future applications in nanoscale optics, electronics, and magnetics.
Electrospray Ion Beam Deposition of Clusters and Biomolecules
Authors: Rauschenbach Stephan , Stadler Frank L. , Lunedei Eugenio , Malinowski Nicola , Koltsov Sergej , Costantini Giovanni , Kern Klaus
Published: March 2006

An ion beam source using electrospray ionization is presented for nondestructive vacuum deposition of mass‐selected large organic molecules and inorganic clusters. Electrospray ionization is used to create an ion beam from a solution containing the nanoparticles or molecules to be deposited. To form and guide the ion beam, radio frequency and electrostatic ion optics are utilized. The kinetic energy distribution of the particles is measured to control the beam formation and the landing process. The particle mass‐to‐charge ratio is analyzed by in situ time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. To demonstrate the performance of the setup, deposition experiments with gold nanoclusters and bovine serum albumin proteins on graphite surfaces were performed and analyzed by ex situ atomic force microscopy. The small gold clusters are found to form three‐dimensional agglomerations at the surface, preferentially decorating the step edges. In contrast, bovine serum albumin creates two‐dimensional fractal nanostructures on the substrate terraces due to strong intermolecular interactions.
Cover Picture: Ethylene Glycol‐Protected Magnetic Nanoparticles for a Multiplexed Immunoassay in Human Plasma (Small 4/2006)
Authors: Lin Po‐Chiao , Chou Po‐Hung , Chen Shu‐Hua , Liao Hsin‐Kai , Wang Kai‐Yi , Chen Yu‐Ju , Lin Chun‐Cheng
Published: March 2006

The cover picture depicts antibody‐conjugated magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles, which are protected by ethylene glycol groups. Such nanoparticles are shown to act as specific affinity nanoprobes for the multiplexed detection of target proteins in human plasma. MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry was used to monitor the targeted signals and the inhibition of nonspecific binding caused by the magnetic nanoparticles. Such nanoprobes are envisaged to become excellent tools for future clinical nanodiagnostics. For more information please read the Communication "Ethylene Glycol‐Protected Magnetic Nanoparticles for a Multiplexed Immunoassay in Human Plasma" by Y.‐J. Chen, C.‐C. Lin, and co‐workers on page 485 ff.
Toward ethical approaches to the inclusion of peers with disabilities
Authors: Fink Dale Borman
Published: March 2006

Drawing from empirical research and his own parenting experiences, the author challenges program leaders to go beyond the practice of treating children with disabilities “as if they were normal.”
Giving youth the social and emotional skills to succeed
Authors: Deerin Ginny
Published: March 2006

What strategies can help transform the attitudes and behaviors of youth who have low self‐esteem, few resources, and little interest in learning?
Developing a game plan for good sportsmanship
Authors: Lodl Kathleen
Published: March 2006

A university extension and its partners launched a program to provide training, promotional efforts, and recognition to make good sportsmanship the norm rather than the exception in connection with competition in sports and other arenas.
Pathways of influence in out‐of‐school time: A community‐university partnership to develop ethics
Authors: Peterson Donna J. , Roebuck James C. , Betts Sherry C. , Stuart Marta E.
Published: March 2006

A community collected data to determine what adolescents thought about right and wrong behavior and to identify the best venues for reaching them outside school hours.
Improving the recognition of depression in adolescence: Can we teach the teachers?
Authors: Moor Stephanie , Ann Maguire , Hester McQueen , Elisabeth Wells J. , Robert Elton , Robert Wrate , Caroline Blair
Published: March 2006

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a schools‐based psychoeducational intervention designed to help teachers recognize the symptoms of clinical depression in their adolescent pupils. Around 151 teachers in eight high schools in Scotland, UK were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups and all received training on depression. The ability of the experimental teachers to report which pupils were depressed was compared with the control group whose reporting task occurred before they had received training. The teachers were reporting on 2262 pupils who had been independently screened for clinical depression using a two‐stage screening procedure with the Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (MFQ) and semi‐structured clinical interview (K‐SADS). Systematic evaluation showed that training teachers with this package did not improve their ability to recognize their depressed pupils. Recognizing depressive illness in adolescence is one of the main public health challenges for adolescent mental health services and this study adds to the growing literature on the difficulties in achieving this.
Down‐regulation of PARP‐1, but not of Ku80 or DNA‐PKcs, results in higher gene targeting efficiency
Authors: Domínguez‐Bendala Juan , Masutani Mitsuko , McWhir Jim
Published: March 2006

The viability of non‐homologous end‐joining (NHEJ)‐defective mice suggests that homologous recombination (HR) might take over its role in DNA repair. To test this hypothesis, we examined gene targeting frequencies (TF) in DNA‐PKcs, Ku80 and poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP‐1) nullizygous cells. We observed a 3‐fold TF increase in PARP‐1 knockout embryonic stem (ES) cells, which is consistent with the predicted role of PARP‐1 as a switch between HR and NHEJ. To a lesser extent, such effect could be reproduced upon chemical inhibition of PARP‐1. However, TF was not enhanced in Ku80‐ or DNA‐PKcs‐defective cells. Our study also suggests an unexpected involvement of DNA‐PKcs in HR.
Increased FITC fluorescence on LPS stimulated neutrophils cultured in whole blood
Authors: Wilkins R.C. , Bellier P.V. , Kutzner B.C. , McNamee J.P.
Published: March 2006

Recently, it has been observed that Annexin V labelling of phosphatidylserine (PS) on non‐apoptotic cells can vary in different leukocyte populations and with the activation of cells, due to differences in the absolute level of exposed PS. We have also observed changes in the absolute level of Annexin V‐FITC intensity, but under conditions where absolute PS expression did not change. In the present study, we have explored the effect of neutrophil cell activation on Annexin V‐FITC fluorescence intensity by comparing alternatively labelled matched antibodies against Annexin V. Human venous whole blood was cultured with and without stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Apoptosis in the neutrophil and lymphocyte populations was analyzed by flow cytometry and the intensity of FITC labelling was compared to matched fluorochromes conjugated to the same cell surface markers. There was an increase in the intensity of Annexin V‐FITC in non‐apoptotic neutrophils when stimulated with LPS, which did not correlate with increased apoptosis. Furthermore, CD65‐FITC intensity also increased on activated neutrophils. Activated neutrophils exhibited higher amounts of FITC fluorescence that were not associated with changes in extracellular PS expression. This effect appears to be fluorochrome related, likely due to an increase in the pH surrounding activated neutrophils.
Previously known and newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation: A major risk indicator after a myocardial infarction complicated by heart failure or left ventricular dysfunction☆
Authors: Køber Lars , Swedberg Karl , McMurray John J.V. , Pfeffer Marc A. , Velazquez Eric J. , Diaz Rafael , Maggioni Aldo P. , Mareev Viatcheslav , Opolski Grzegorz , Van de Werf Frans , Zannad Faiez , Ertl Georg , Solomon Scott D. , Zelenkofske Steven , Rouleau Jean‐Lucien , Leimberger Jeffrey D. , Califf Robert M.
Published: March 2006

Aims

To characterize the relationship between known and newly diagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF) and the risk of death and major cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) complicated by heart failure (HF) and/or left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD).

Methods

The VALIANT trial enrolled 14,703 individuals with acute MI complicated by HF and/or LVSD. AF was assessed at presentation and at randomization (median 4.9 days after symptom onset). Primary outcomes were risk of death and major CV events 3 years following acute MI.

Results

A total of 1812 with current AF (AF between presentation and randomization), 339 patients with prior AF (history of AF without current AF), and 12,509 without AF were enrolled. Patients with AF were older; had more prior HF, angina, and MI, and received beta‐blockers and thrombolytics less often than those without AF. Three‐year mortality estimates were 20% in those without AF, 37% with current AF, and 38% with prior AF. Compared with patients without AF, the multivariable adjusted HR of death was 1.25 (1.03–1.52; p = 0.03) for prior AF and 1.32 (1.20–1.45; p < 0.0001) for current AF. HR for major CV events was 1.15 (0.98–1.35; p = 0.08) and 1.21 (1.12–1.31; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

AF is associated with greater long‐term mortality and adverse CV events with acute MI complicated by HF or LVSD.
Evaluation of eplerenone in the subgroup of EPHESUS patients with baseline left ventricular ejection fraction ≤30%
Authors: Pitt Bertram , Gheorghiade Mihai , Zannad Faiez , Anderson Jeffrey L. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , Parkhomenko Alexander , Corbalan Ramon , Klug Eric Q. , Mukherjee Robin , Solomon Henry ,   On behalf of the EPHESUS Investigators
Published: March 2006

Aims:

Because of the prognostic importance of LV dysfunction following an AMI and the increasing use of electrical and/or mechanical interventions in patients with LV systolic dysfunction, this retrospective analysis of EPHESUS patients with LVEF ≤30% at baseline was conducted to determine the value of eplerenone in this setting.

Methods and Results:

In EPHESUS, 6632 patients with LVEF ≤40% and clinical heart failure (HF) post‐AMI who were receiving standard therapy were randomized to eplerenone 25 mg/day titrated to 50 mg/day or placebo for a mean follow‐up of 16 months. Treatment with eplerenone in the subgroup of patients with LVEF ≤30% (N=2106) resulted in relative risk reductions of 21% versus placebo in both all‐cause mortality (P=0.012) and cardiovascular (CV) mortality/CV hospitalization (P=0.001), and 23% for CV mortality (P=0.008). The relative risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) was reduced 33% (P=0.01) and HF mortality/HF hospitalization was reduced 25% (P=0.005) with eplerenone compared with placebo. Within 30 days of randomization, eplerenone resulted in relative risk reductions of 43% for all‐cause mortality (P=0.002), 29% for CV mortality/CV hospitalization (P=0.006), and 58% for SCD (P=0.008).

Conclusions:

Treatment with eplerenone plus standard therapy in patients with post‐AMI HF and LVEF ≤30% provided significant incremental benefits in reducing both early and late mortality and morbidity.
Cardiac resynchronisation for patients with heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction — a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Freemantle N. , Tharmanathan P. , Calvert M.J. , Abraham W.T. , Ghosh J. , Cleland J.G.F.
Published: March 2006

Background:

Randomised controlled trials generally suggest that cardiac resynchronisation improves outcomes in patients with heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction and cardiac dyssynchrony. Our objective was to provide a valid synthesis of the effects of CRT on mortality, major morbidity, quality of life and implantation success rates.

Methods:

Systematic overview and meta‐analysis of randomised trials, both blinded and open, comparing cardiac resynchronisation with control. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality, and secondary outcomes included hospitalisation for worsening heart failure, quality of life and implantation success rates.

Results:

We identified 8 randomised trials which included 3380 patients and observed a total of 524 deaths. Follow‐up ranged from 1 month to a mean of 29.4 months. Most trials were of high quality, with centrally administered randomisation and few patients lost to follow‐up. CRT reduced mortality in these trials (odds ratio 0.72, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.88). In addition CRT reduced hospitalisation for worsening heart failure (odds ratio 0.55, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.68) and improved quality of life as measured by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (weighted mean difference −7.1, 95% CI −2.9 to −11.4). Implantation success rates in the trials were 87% or greater.

Conclusion:

Cardiac resynchronisation in patients with heart failure characterised by dyssynchrony substantially reduces all‐cause mortality, major morbidity and improves quality of life.
Fibroblast growth factor signaling in embryonic and cancer stem cells
Authors: Dvorak Petr , Dvorakova Dana , Hampl Ales
Published: March 2006

The fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF‐2) pathway is one of the most significant regulators of human embryonic stem cell (hESC) self‐renewal and cancer cell tumorigenesis. Here we summarize recent data on the effects of FGF‐2 and its receptors on hESCs and leukemic stem/progenitor cells. Also, we discuss the similarities of these findings with stem cell renewal and differentiation phenotypes.
Activation of ErbB2 by 2‐methyl‐1,4‐naphthoquinone (menadione) in human keratinocytes: Role of EGFR and protein tyrosine phosphatases
Authors: Beier Juliane I. , von Montfort Claudia , Sies Helmut , Klotz Lars-Oliver
Published: March 2006

Activation of ErbB receptor tyrosine kinases triggers multiple signaling pathways that regulate cellular proliferation and survival. We here demonstrate that ErbB2 is activated via the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) upon exposure of cultured human keratinocytes to 2‐methyl‐1,4‐naphthoquinone (menadione). Both ErbB2 and EGFR are shown to be regulated by protein tyrosine phosphatases that are inhibited by menadione, giving rise to the hypothesis that phosphatase inhibition by menadione may result in a net activation of EGFR and an enhanced ErbB2 phosphorylation. Isolated PTP‐1B, a protein tyrosine phosphatase known to be associated with ErbB receptors, is demonstrated to be inhibited by menadione.
Identification of multiple nuclear localization signals in murine Elf3, an ETS transcription factor
Authors: Do Hyun-Jin , Song Hyuk , Yang Heung-Mo , Kim Dong-Ku , Kim Nam-Hyung , Kim Jin-Hoi , Cha Kwang-Yul , Chung Hyung-Min , Kim Jae-Hwan
Published: March 2006

We investigated nuclear localization signal (NLS) determinants within the AT‐hook and ETS DNA‐binding domains of murine Elf3 (mElf3), a member of the subfamily of epithelium‐specific ETS transcription factors. Deletion mutants containing the AT‐hook, ETS domain or both localized strictly in the nucleus, suggesting that these individual domains contain independent NLS motif(s). Within the AT‐hook domain, four basic residues (244KRKR247) were critical for strong NLS activity, and two potent bipartite NLS motifs (236–252 and 249–267) were sufficient for nuclear import of mElf3, although less efficient than the full domain. In addition, one stretch of basic residues (318KKK320) within the ETS domain appears to be essential for mElf3 nuclear localization. Taken together, mElf3 contains multiple NLS motifs, which may function cooperatively to effect efficient nuclear transport.
Hen egg white lysozyme as an inhibitor of mushroom tyrosinase
Authors: Li Bin , Huang Yu , Paskewitz Susan M.
Published: March 2006

We report a kinetics study on hen egg white lysozyme's (HEWL) inhibitory effect on mushroom tyrosinase catalysis of 3‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐l‐alanine (l‐DOPA) or l‐tyrosine. For the first time, we demonstrate HEWL as a robust inhibitor against mushroom tyrosinase in catalysis of both substrates. The kinetics pattern matches a mixed (mostly non‐competitive) partial inhibition. K
i and ID50 value of HEWL are more than 20‐fold lower than that of kojic acid, a well‐known chemical inhibitor of mushroom tyrosinase. K
i, α value and β value, are almost identical in both experiments (l‐DOPA and l‐tyrosine as substrates, respectively), which suggests this common inhibition mechanism affects both steps. The inhibitory effect increases as both proteins were mixed and pre‐incubated for less than 1 h. HEWL‐depletion only removed about half of the inhibitory effect. Here we propose a novel function of HEWL, which combines the reversible inhibition and the irreversible inactivation toward mushroom tyrosinase. Discovery of HEWL as an inhibitor to mushroom tyrosinase catalysis may be commercially valuable in the food, medical and cosmetic industries.
Mutational analysis of the oxidoreductase ERp57 reveals the importance of the two central residues in the redox motif
Authors: Beynon-Jones Siân M. , Antoniou Antony N. , Powis Simon J.
Published: March 2006

The oxidoreductase ERp57 is involved in the formation and breaking of disulfide bonds in assembling proteins within the environment of the endoplasmic reticulum. Site‐directed mutants of the redox‐active Cys‐Gly‐His‐Cys motif within an isolated ERp57 sub‐domain have been studied. Whereas mutation of either cysteine residue abolished reductase activity, substitution of the central residues resulted in retention of partial activity. Alkylation studies indicated that the central residue mutants retained the normal disulfide bond in the motif, whereas this disulfide bond became more resistant to reduction following addition of a third residue into the redox motif, demonstrating an optimum spacing within the redox‐active motif of ERp57.
Density-dependent distribution of demersal juvenile Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) in Placentia Bay, Newfoundland
Authors: Robichaud David , Rose George A.
Published: March 2006

Age 0 cod (Gadus morhua) were surveyed with beach-seines monthly from September to December, 1997–1999, at sites located throughout Placentia Bay, Newfoundland. Catch rates (densities) varied annually, being highest in 1998 (7 fish per sample) and lowest in 1997 (<1). Each year, fish size and density increased from September to November, as expected from a stock that tends to produce a single cohort spawned in April/May. However, in December the expected larger fish were absent, and the presence of smaller cod suggested a later cohort (July spawning). Large-scale spatial patterns also persisted among years, with densities consistently higher in the inner bay and on the western side, and lower on the eastern side. The rank of the sites from greatest to lowest density of age 0 cod remained fairly consistent among years. In a comparison of all 12 sampling events, the proportion of sites occupied by cod was strongly and positively correlated with the total number caught (r2 = 0.95). These observations suggested a density-dependent range expansion not previously reported for age 0 cod.
Content of Childbirth‐Related Fear in Swedish Women and Men—Analysis of an Open‐Ended Question
Authors: Eriksson Carola , Westman Göran , Hamberg Katarina
Published: March 2006

The content of childbirth‐related fear as described by 308 women and 194 men was analyzed and compared in relation to intensity of fear. The content of fear was similarly described by women and men and concerned the following main categories: the labor and delivery process, the health and life of the baby, the health and life of the woman, own capabilities and reactions, the partner's capabilities and reactions, and the professionals’ competence and behavior. Among women, the labor and delivery process was the most frequently reported among the 6 categories of fears, whereas the health and life of the baby was the most frequent among the men. Fears related to own capabilities and reactions were described significantly more often by women with intense fear than by women with mild to moderate fear. The greatest difference between men with intense versus mild to moderate fear was a more frequent expression of concern for the health and life of the woman. Both women and men had fears related to not being treated with respect and not receiving sufficient medical care. This finding suggests that part of the problem with childbirth‐related fear is located within the health care system itself.
Student Perceptions of Ideal and Actual Midwifery Practice
Authors: Lange Ginette , Kennedy Holly Powell
Published: March 2006

This research was conducted to document midwifery students' observations of ideal midwifery care in different educational and clinical midwifery settings. A survey questionnaire using the 39 processes of exemplary midwifery process identified by Kennedy in 2000 was sent to a group of newly graduated certified nurse‐midwives, all members of the American College of Nurse‐Midwives. The questionnaire was constructed to permit the respondent to evaluate “ideal” and “actual” midwifery practices. Significant differences between actual observations and ideal perceptions of midwifery practice were found in two of the four clinical settings (birth centers and homebirth) and one type of education program (BA to BSN to CNM). No difference was found between traditional versus distance learning programs. Of most concern was that half of the respondents perceived a lack of congruity on ideal and actual midwifery practices that supported normal birth. The results of this study represent a “theory‐practice” gap and should be considered by educators and preceptors in the development of curriculum and clinical experiences.
Diagnosis and Management of Candida of the Nipple and Breast
Authors: Wiener Sharon
Published: March 2006

Diagnosis and treatment of ductal and/or nipple candidiasis in breastfeeding women is complicated by the variety of symptoms women experience. The differential diagnosis includes candidiasis of the nipple, candidiasis of the breast, bacterial infection of either nipple or breast, and other less common problems such as Raynaud's syndrome. Diagnosis and treatment are based on history, physical examination, and presenting symptomatology because cultures of breast milk are often inconclusive. Differential diagnoses and treatment options are reviewed.
“Three disconnects” and China’s rural election: A case study of Hailian Village
Authors: Hong Zhaohui
Published: March 2006

With the case study of the local elections in a poverty-stricken, largely illiterate and isolated village in the remote and mountainous Yi minority village, this article is intended to address the so-called “three disconnects” phenomenon in the development of China’s rural election. They refer to the disconnect between economic development and democratic elections, the disconnect between democratic elections and democratic consciousness, and the disconnect between direct local elections in the rural areas and the higher level elections in urban regions. The article examines the political reasons and institutional logic behind this unique development of rural democracy in China as well as the existential value of the three “disconnects.”
Cigarette Smoking: Impairment of Digital Blood flow and Wound Healing in the Hand
Authors: Mosely Linda H. , Finseth Frederick
Published: March 2006

Smoking a single cigarette can reduce digital blood flow. Sarin (1974) showed a 42% reduction in digital blood flow in his series, and other investigators have shown similar findings (Ludbrook 1974, Rottenstein 1960). The focus of this paper is on the pharmacological effects of the various components of cigarette smoke and their potential effects on wound healing in the hand. A case is described to illustrate the effect of stopping smoking upon a non-healing fingertip ulcer.
Anomalous Muscles and Ulnar Nerve Compression at the Wrist
Authors: Turner M. S. , Caird D. M.
Published: March 2006

A Report of two cases of anomalous muscles causing ulnar nerve compression. One appeared to be related to the flexor carpi ulnaris and the other to the more usual palmaris longus.
Flexor Tendon Repair in “No Man's Land” An Experimental Study
Authors: Moscona A. R. , Sekel R. , Owen E. R.
Published: March 2006

Twenty-five fingers of seven monkeys were used for an experimental study of a new concept of flexor tendon repair in “No Man's Land”. Microsurgical aids were used to shift distally a sleeve of healthy flexor tendon sheath to cover the site of the repaired flexor tendon.

There was a low success rate due to technical difficulties in the immobilisation of the monkey fingers.

Where the finger was successfully immobilised the results were encouraging.
Strength of Human Pulleys
Authors: Manske Paul R. , Lesker Peggy A.
Published: March 2006

The length, breaking strength, and tensile strength of each of the annular fibro-osseous pulleys of digital flexor sheath in ten fresh human cadaver specimens were measured. The first annular pulley and the fourth annular pulley were found to be the strongest, while the second annular pulley was the weakest. The design of artificial pulleys should reproduce the strength of the first annular and fourth annular pulleys. Suggested minimum requirements for the breaking strength of artificial implant pulleys may be made based on these studies.
Syndactyly—A Review and Long Term Results
Authors: Brown Peter M.
Published: March 2006

Syndactyly is classified and the principles of its surgical treatment discussed. The notes of eighty-five patients who had 222 webs between them were reviewed. A long term follow-up was carried out on thirty-two of these patients who had seventy-six clefts separated. The sexual and anatomical distribution of the syndactyly was investigated. The results of surgery were assessed including complications, and the relationship of complications to the type of graft used and the age at operation. It is suggested that complicated syndactyly is often separated at too early an age.
Scintiangiography Demonstration of Bleeding into a Wrist Ganglion
Authors: Rudavsky Amiel Z. , Moss Charles M. , Strauch Berish
Published: March 2006

Scintiangiography with delayed static scintiphotos may be used to demonstrate bleeding. Bleeding into a traumatic ganglion of the wrist was demonstrated by this technique following failure of conventional contrast arteriography. Scintiangiography with delayed scintiphotography is now performed in any case in which bleeding is suspected.
Cock Another Hat at the Thumb
Authors: Barron John N.
Published: March 2006

This paper discusses the attributes necessary to preserve function of the thumb, particularly length and opposability. The details of an operation to lengthen the short stump with sensitive skin are illustrated.
An Uncommon Sequel to Thumb Trauma: Epidermoid Cyst
Authors: St. Onge R. A. , Jackson I. T.
Published: March 2006

A report illustrating some of the typical clinical features of epidermoid cyst of the hand.
False Aneurysm of the Ulnar Artery
Authors: Milling M. A. P. , Kinmonth M. H.
Published: March 2006

A case of ulnar nerve palsy associated with a false aneurysm of the ulnar artery is presented. The aneurysm was resected with return of full function of the hand.
Clinico-Pathological Correlation in A Case of Congenital Arterio-Venous Fistula
Authors: Bogumill G. P.
Published: March 2006

This is a clinical case presentation of a digital arterio-venous fistula together with the histological findings in the amputated finger.
An Unusual Cause of Ulnar Nerve Palsy Associated with Colles's Fracture
Authors: Joshi B. B.
Published: March 2006

An unusual case of traumatic neuritis of ulnar nerve associated with Colles's fracture is described. The ulnar nerve had the abnormal course in the lower forearm and wrist. The fracture of the styloid process of the ulna was responsible for the traumatic neuritis of the ulnar nerve.
Cut Palmaris Longus Tendon—To Repair Or Not to Repair?
Authors: Sarangapani K. , Brown H. G.
Published: March 2006

It is suggested in certain circumstances, that a divided palmaris longus tendon should be repaired, as it is an ideal choice for a tendon graft, or could be of use as a tendon transfer. The musculotendinous unit may be of use as an autogenous free graft.
A Comparison Of Three Techniques Of Micro Nerve Repairs In Dogs
Authors: Burke P. F. , O'brien B. Mcc.
Published: March 2006

summary

An assessment of the results of three techniques of nerve repair. Epineurial repair, Funicular repair with resection of epineurium and Combined Funicular and Epineurial repair. The results were essentially similar.
Primary Repair Of Flexor Tendons Within The Digital Theca Of The Hand
Authors: Pho R. W. H. , Sanguin Rimando , Chacha P. B.
Published: March 2006

summary

The results of primary repair of the flexor tendons within the digital theca of the hand in twenty-three fingers have been very encouraging. Eighty-seven percent of the fingers had excellent to good results. Primary tenorrhapy by the technique described in selected cases offers the patient a shorter period of disablement with functional results as good or even better than those after a free tendon graft.
Unusual Causes Of Peripheral Nerve Compression
Authors: Chalmers John
Published: March 2006

summary

This paper presents two anatomical variants as possible causes of peripheral nerve compression — the median nerve by a persisting median artery and the ulnar nerve by the muscle anconeous epitrochlearis.