bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Density functional study of XH4 (XSi and Ge) reactivity upon dissociative adsorption onto the Si(100) surface
Authors: Lin Jyh Shing , Lee Lien‐Feng
Published: January 2004

Total energy calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) with generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and ultrasoft pseudopotential approximation and an analysis tool of atom‐resolved density of states (ADOS) have been used to investigate (1) the energetic profiles for the possible initial dissociative adsorption of XH4 (XSi and Ge) onto the Si(100)(2 × 2) surface to evaluate their reactivity and (2) the effect of surface electronic states of Si(100)(2 × 2) on gaseous molecular precursors XH4 (XSi and Ge) during initial dissociative adsorption to understand the factors governing their reactivity. Our calculated lower‐energy barrier for initial dissociative adsorption of GeH4 is due to the forming of stronger bond of SiH between H within GeH4 and buckled‐down Si atom on the Si(100)(2 × 2) surface accompanying the larger extent of unbuckling of the buckled SiSi dimer on the Si(100)(2 × 2) surface at the transition state. Our evaluated better reactivity for GeH4 than SiH4 (a factor of around 14.6) is slightly larger than observed higher reactivity for GeH4 than SiH4 (a factor of between 2 and 5 depending on the incident kinetic energy) employed supersonic molecular bean techniques. Finally, our calculated ADOS indicate that the surface electronic states of buckled SiSi dimer on the Si(100)(2 × 2) surface energetically favorably participate in the transition state during GeH4 initial dissociative adsorption to reduce the energy barrier, i.e., enhance its reactivity, in comparison with SiH4 initial dissociative adsorption onto the Si(100)(2 × 2) surface under the same reaction conditions. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
Brief report: Initial psychometric properties of the everyday discrimination scale in black adolescents☆
Authors: Clark Rodney , Coleman Apollonia P , Novak Jeremy D
Published: January 2004

This study explored select psychometric properties of the Everyday Discrimination Scale in 120 Black adolescents (65 males and 55 females). Youth completed the Everyday Discrimination Scale and the Child Behaviour Checklist‐Youth Self‐Report Form. A t‐test analysis revealed that Everyday Discrimination Scale scores were not significantly different for males and females (p>0.18). The alpha reliability coefficient was 0.87, with item‐total correlations that ranged from 0.50 to 0.70 (mean=0.61). The split‐half reliability was 0.83 (p<0.0001). A principal component analysis yielded one factor, which accounted for approximately 49% of the standardized variance. Correlation analyses indicated that the Everyday Discrimination Scale score was significantly related to internalizing and externalizing symptoms (ps<0.0002).
Brief report: Social and neighbourhood correlates of adolescent drunkenness: a pilot study in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Parry Charles D.H , Morojele Neo K , Saban Amina , Flisher Alan J
Published: January 2004

Aim

To identify social and neighbourhood correlates of drunkenness among adolescents.

Design

A cross‐sectional, community study.

Participants

A multi‐stage cluster sampling strategy was used to select 90 adolescents aged 11–17 years from nine distinct communities in Cape Town, South Africa. The sample was stratified by race, income, and gender. Randomly selected adolescents from each household were interviewed by trained interviewers.

Instrument

A questionnaire that included questions on substance use behaviour, peers, neighbourhood factors and recreational activities.

Results

A third of the sample indicated having been drunk at least once in their lifetime. Older adolescents and adolescents whose friends drink were significantly more likely to have been drunk. The risk of having been drunk was also associated with being white and with being exposed to public drunkenness on a daily or at least weekly basis. Gender was not associated with reporting of lifetime drunkenness. Attendance at religious services (at least weekly) was found to be a significant protective factor against drunkenness.

Conclusion

The study highlights a number of environmental factors that should be considered in tackling adolescent drunkenness.
Mesothelial primary cilia of peritoneal and other serosal surfaces
Authors: Bird Stephen D.
Published: January 2004

The conspicuous presence of primary cilia, a small immotile cilium present on most cell types, left researchers with little doubt of their functional relevance. Recently mechanosensitive functional significance was established and a link with the pathogenesis of polycystic kidney disease. Together these discoveries have raised the profile of this, previously considered “vestigial”, organelle. Primary cilia are expressed on the apical surface of serosal mesothelium and display regional variation but are more abundant on biosynthetically active cells. Adult mesothelial cells are highly biosynthetic producing a phospholipid rich surfactant that lubricates and protects the visceral organs. The mesothelium is utilized as a semipermeable membrane during peritoneal dialysis for patients with end stage renal failure. However, little is known about the functional role of primary cilia on this highly specialized cell type. The present review, examines the significance of the primary cilium in serosal mesothelial cell biology with an emphasis on ciliary location, structure, form and function. Future research is identified and discussed in view of the emerging role cilia have in other cells and the established function of the serosal mesothelium in development, normal function, peritoneal dialysis and pathology of the serosal membranes.
Inducible expression of Bcl‐XLinhibits sodium butyrate‐induced apoptosis in hybridoma, resulting in enhanced antibody production
Authors: Wang Xian‐hui , Xu Jing , Zhang Yang , Li Ling , Feng Qiang , Mi Li , Chen Zhi‐nan
Published: January 2004

Sodium butyrate (NaBu) can increase the specific Mab production rate of hybridomas by enhancing histone hyperacetylation and influencing the cell cycle, but it can also inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis. Thus, the beneficial effect of NaBu on Mab secretion is compromised by its cytotoxic effect. In the present study, expression of the anti‐apoptotic protein human Bcl‐XLwas made inducible in hybridoma H18 to overcome the cytotoxic effect of NaBu, circumventing the detrimental effects of constitutive high‐level expression. We constructed an expression vector in which the promoter of a mammalian metallothionein (MT) gene drove the expression of bcl‐XLin response to metal exposure. The vector was then used to exogenously control the expression of bcl‐XLin H18 hybridoma cells. Our data showed that stably transfected H18.D4 cells expressed high levels of Bcl‐XL, which was induced within 24 h of addition of ZnSO4. NaBu (0.4 mM) increased antibody production by more than 3‐fold in H18.D4. This effect resulted from the suppression of NaBu‐induced apoptosis, allowing the H18.D4 cells to grow at higher viability and extending culture longevity by >3 days.
Predicting work status following interdisciplinary treatment for chronic pain
Authors: Vowles Kevin E , Gross Richard T , Sorrell John T
Published: January 2004

The effectiveness of interdisciplinary treatments for chronic pain is well established. In general, these treatments decrease psychosocial distress and increase physical abilities. Further, return to work rates following interdisciplinary treatment tend to be quite high. Previous studies have highlighted a number of factors that individually influence return to work rates; however, there is a need for more comprehensive and unified models that allow an evaluation of the inter‐relations among these factors. The present investigation examined how demographic and treatment outcome variables interacted to influence post‐treatment return to work rates in a sample of individuals with chronic pain following interdisciplinary treatment. Results indicated that patient age, lifting ability, pain duration, depression level, and reported disability were individually related to return to work; however, when these variables were evaluated relative to one another, level of depression and patient age had the best ability to predict post‐treatment work status. These results add to the literature by specifically highlighting post‐treatment factors that best discriminate patients who had returned to work from those that had not. Furthermore, they provide evidence that general emotional distress is perhaps the most important predictor of work status following treatment.
Health care utilisation among individuals reporting long‐term pain: an epidemiological study based on Danish National Health Surveys
Authors: Eriksen Jørgen , Sjøgren Per , Ekholm Ola , Rasmussen Niels K.
Published: January 2004

Individuals reporting long‐term pain in the 1994 and 2000 Danish Health and Morbidity Surveys, which included random samples of 6000 and 16,684 persons respectively, were investigated concerning their use of the health care systems. A considerably higher use was observed in the pain population in the primary as well as the secondary health care sector, compared with a no pain control group. In 1994, individuals reporting long‐term pain had on average 12.8 contacts per year to the primary health care sector compared with 7.3 for the control group. Use of secondary health care sector as estimated by hospital admission frequency and number of in‐hospital days was not only significantly higher for the pain group but showed also an increasing tendency during the periods investigated (1991–1997). Women used the health care system significantly more than men, whereas age did not seem to influence.

In conclusion, individuals reporting long‐term/chronic pain have a significantly higher use of the health care system than individuals without long‐term/chronic pain complaints. Reasons may be ascribed to within‐patient factors, factors within the health care system (insufficient knowledge on chronic pain resulting in the seeking after a somatic diagnosis, and difficulties in recognizing the endpoint of reasonable treatment attempts), and societal factors (legislation on disability and compensation).
The relation between social behavior and negative affect in psychosis-prone individuals: an experience sampling investigation
Authors: Husky Mathilde M. , Grondin Olivier S. , Swendsen Joel D.
Published: January 2004

Daily social behavior and negative affect were examined in a sample of individuals with a wide spectrum of psychosis-proneness scores. Using the experience sampling method, participants were signaled five times per day for a 1-week period to provide naturalistic reports of location, activity, and social behavior. Little evidence was found for a direct association between psychosis-proneness and specific behavioral profiles, but individuals with higher scores of psychosis-proneness reported spending more time doing nothing or waiting. However, the levels of anxious and depressed moods experienced in certain social and environmental contexts were also predicted by psychosis-proneness scores. The present results indicate that psychosis-proneness was associated with an increase in anxiety when individuals were with friends and an increase in depressed mood in daily task situations such as working or studying. By contrast, psychosis-proneness predicted a decrease in depressed and anxious moods in other situations when the individual was not likely to be confronted by social contact with less known individuals, and lower anxious and depressed moods when in secure environments (in one's own home, home of family or friends). The implications of these findings are discussed in terms of understanding the expression of psychosis vulnerability and the potential reinforcement of maladaptive social behavior through operant conditioning mechanisms.
The deficit syndrome in schizophrenia: implications for the treatment of negative symptoms
Authors: Arango Celso , Buchanan Robert W. , Kirkpatrick Brian , Carpenter William T.
Published: January 2004

Schizophrenia psychopathology clusters around several symptom domains. One of these domains is negative symptomatology. We have defined the deficit syndrome as a disease entity characterized by the presence of primary enduring negative symptoms. A focus on primary negative symptoms demonstrates that deficit and nondeficit schizophrenia subgroups differ on clinical features, associated neuroimaging findings, neuropsychological and neurological measures, pattern of risk factors, and pharmacological response profiles. In the present article we focus on the importance of the distinction between primary and secondary negative symptoms for pathophysiology research. The development and mechanistic understanding of anti-negative symptom drugs may be informative regarding pathophysiology of primary negative symptoms. Although new antipsychotics are effective for secondary negative symptoms they have shown no efficacy for the deficit syndrome and new mechanisms of drug action appear to be required to address this aspect of the disease syndrome. The loss of precious human experiences and the association with poor long-term functional outcome justifies a focused and dedicated effort to discover the causes and treatments of this distinctive aspect of schizophrenia.
Distraction Lengthening of Thumb Metacarpal
Authors: HEITMANN C. , LEVIN L. S.
Published: January 2004

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of distraction lengthening of the thumb metacarpal without bone grafting in seven patients with traumatic thumb loss. The distraction was stopped after 57 (range, 42 to 91) days, giving a median lengthening of 28 (range, 20–36) mm. It took an average of 155 (range, 118–196) days for bony consolidation to occur. The mean pinch power was 72% of that of the uninjured hand. The two-point discrimination on the pulp of the reconstructed thumb was 10 (range, 8–12) mm. There were no major complications.
A Prospective Randomised Clinical Trial of the Intra-Operative Use of 5-Fluorouracil on the Outcome of Dupuytren’s Disease
Authors: BULSTRODE N. W. , BISSON M. , JEMEC B. , PRATT A. L. , MCGROUTHER D. A. , GROBBELAAR A. O.
Published: January 2004

5-Fluorouracil reduces proliferation rates of fibroblasts, myofibroblast differentiation and contractility of ocular fibroblasts in vitro. This double-blind randomized clinical trial assesses whether intra-operative topical treatment with 5-fluorouracil reduces the recurrence rate after limited excision of Dupuytren’s tissue. Patients with two-digit disease were randomized to having 5-fluorouracil (25 mg/ml) treatment for 5 minutes on one digit and placebo on the other.

Fifteen patients were enrolled with 18 months follow-up. There were no peri-operative complications. Wound healing was not delayed and there was no deterioration in the flexion deformity of the 5-fluorouracil treated digits. Patients were subsequently assessed by joint angle measurement at 3, 6, 12 and 18 months. There was no significant difference between control and 5-fluorouracil treated digits.
Solitary Enchondroma at the Hand. Long-Term Follow-Up Study after Operative Treatment⋆
Authors: GAULKE R. , SUPPELNA G.
Published: January 2004

Twenty-one patients (17 women and four men) who underwent operative treatment for a solitary enchondroma of the hand were examined at a follow-up of between 2 and 18 years (mean, 9 years). Radiographs showed normal cancellous bone at the site of surgery in 11 cases, three had recurrent enchondroma and seven had bone defects so that recurrence could not be excluded. Two of the three recurrences underwent reoperation.

Previous studies have regarded persistent bony defects as evidence of complete excision without recurrence. However, in view of the slow asymptomatic growth of this tumour this opinion is incorrect. As shown in this study, recurrences may occur in these defects many years after excision surgery and go undetected until they cause widening or cortical erosion.

We recommend periodical radiological re-examination for asymptomatic recurrences before weakness of bone leads to pathological fracture.
Prevalence and Epidemiological Variation of Anomalous Muscles at Guyon’s Canal
Authors: HARVIE P. , PATEL N. , OSTLERE S. J.
Published: January 2004

Ultrasound was performed in 116 wrists of asymptomatic volunteers to determine the prevalence and morphology of anomalous muscles in Guyon’s canal in the normal population. The size of the muscle was correlated with sex, hand-dominance and occupation. Anomalous muscles were identified in 47% of volunteers and 35% of wrists (male prevalence (50%); female prevalence (21%)). All were variants of abductor digiti minimi. Bilateral muscles were present in 50% of index cases in both sexes. Mean muscle thickness was 1.7 mm overall with no inter-sex variation. Muscle thickness did not vary with hand dominance or manual employment. The prevalence of anomalous muscles is higher than previously reported and may be sex-linked. The size of the muscle may be an important factor in determining whether an anomalous muscle is significant in cases of ulnar nerve compression at Guyon’s canal.
Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Release in Dupuytren’s Disease of the Little Finger
Authors: RITCHIE J. F. S. , VENU K. M. , PILLAI K. , YANNI D. H.
Published: January 2004

We present a prospective study, with 3-year follow-up, of the role and outcome of fasciectomy plus sequential surgical release of structures of the proximal interphalangeal joint in Dupuytren’s contracture of the little finger.

Our treatment programme involves fasciectomy for all patients followed by sequential release of the accessory collateral ligament and volar plate as necessary.

Of the 19 fingers in the study, eight achieved a full correction by fasciectomy alone, and in these cases there was a fixed flexion deformity of 6° at 3 months and 8° at 3 years. The remaining 11 fingers (initial mean deformity 70° flexion) were left with a fixed flexion deformity of 42° after fasciectomy which reduced to 7° with capsuloligamentous release. This increased to 26° at 3 months but then remained relatively stable, increasing only to 29° at 3 years.

In our experience sequential proximal interphalangeal joint release has led to consistently good results with few complications in the correction of severe Dupuytren’s disease of the little finger.
Randomized Trial of Buffered Versus Plain Lidocaine for Local Anaesthesia in open Carpal Tunnel Decompression
Authors: WATTS A. C. , GASTON P. , HOOPER G.
Published: January 2004

We performed a randomized double-blind case–control study in 64 consecutive patients undergoing open carpal tunnel decompression under local anaesthetic to assess the pain experienced on injection of plain lidocaine (pH 6.4) compared with lidocaine buffered with sodium bicarbonate (pH 7.4). The results showed no statistical difference in the pain scores reported by patients. The mean pain scores for all patients were low, and most patients reported that they were “not at all anxious” about receiving a similar injection in the future.
Antenna Procedure for the Correction of Hook Nail Deformity
Authors: STRICK M. J. , BREMNER-SMITH A. T. , TONKIN M. A.
Published: January 2004

A total of seven antenna procedures for hooknail deformity were performed between 1990 and 2000. At a mean follow-up of 3 years 4 months there were no major complications, all patients had an improvement in their deformity (subjectively and objectively) and were pleased with their results. Some residual deformity remained in all cases including shortening of the nail, contour defect of the pulp and flattening or residual curvature of the nail.
Dynamic External Fixation for Complex Intraarticular Phalangeal Fractures
Authors: JOHNSON D. , TIERNAN E. , RICHARDS A. M. , COLE R. P.
Published: January 2004

Intraarticular phalangeal fractures are difficult to treat. The advantages of using dynamic external fixation devices include distraction of impacted fracture fragments and reduction in joint stiffness by allowing early joint mobilization. Previous reports have concentrated on pilon fractures and dorsal fracture dislocations affecting the proximal interphalangeal joint. We report our experience using a dynamic external spring fixator in the management of 15 patients with a variety of fracture patterns affecting the metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal and distal interphalangeal joints. In three cases the device spanned two adjacent joints. Long-term follow-up has shown excellent range of joint movement and no major complications. We consider that this device is an effective tool in the management of a range on complex intraarticular phalangeal fractures.
The Role of Manual Occupation in the Aetiology of Dupuytren’s Disease in Men in England and Wales
Authors: KHAN A. A. , RIDER O. J. , JAYADEV C. U. , HERAS-PALOU C. , GIELE H. , GOLDACRE M.
Published: January 2004

We compared the incidence of significant Dupuytren’s disease in men across occupational social classes in England and Wales, using data from the National Morbidity Survey. We found that manual occupational social class was not associated with an increased incidence of Dupuytren’s disease. In fact, the incidence rates of Dupuytren’s disease in the elderly were higher in non-manual than in manual social classes.
Changes in Key Pinch Strength after Excision of the Trapezium and Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: DE SMET L. , SIOEN W. , SPAEPEN D.
Published: January 2004

Key pinch force was measured preoperatively and at follow-up (mean 25 months) in patients treated for basal joint arthritis by either trapziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition ( n=26) or total joint arthroplasty ( n=27). There was a significant increase in key pinch strength with both treatments, but no difference between the two treatments. Total joint arthroplasty does not appear to produce stronger key pinch than trapziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition.
A Molten Metal, High-Pressure Injection Injury of the Hand
Authors: CADDICK J. F. , RICKARD R. F.
Published: January 2004

A case of high-temperature, high-pressure injection injury of the hand is reported. The injury is particularly severe in that it involves both a high-temperature thermal insult and a pressure effect, either of which, alone, can result in major disability. It is evident that the high temperature of the injected material considerably reduced the pressure required for penetration of the tissues.
Average versus Maximum Grip Strength: Which is more Consistent?
Authors: HAIDAR S. G. , KUMAR D. , BASSI R. S. , DESHMUKH S. C.
Published: January 2004

The average of three consecutive measurements is the most frequently used method for grip strength assessment. The purpose of this study was to compare the consistency of the maximum value with that of the average value of three consecutive measurements of grip strength. One hundred healthy volunteers participated in this study. Three measurements of grip strength were taken on two occasions separated by 2 weeks. For each hand, two average values and two maximum values were obtained. Ninety-five per cent limits of agreement for the average method were – 8.3 (−23%) to +7.2 (+20%) kg and for the maximum method were – 8.8 (−23%) to + 8 (+21%) kg. Both methods of grip strength assessment were found to be highly consistent with no statistically significant difference.
The Osteology of the Trapezium
Authors: HUMES D. , JÄHNICH H. , REHM A. , COMPSON J. P.
Published: January 2004

The present anatomical and clinical literature is not detailed enough for a clear understanding of the three-dimensional anatomy of the trapezium. It lacks descriptions of identifiable landmarks needed for the interpretation of two-dimensional radiographs. Fifty dry cadaver trapezia were assessed and an extended surface anatomy described. New consistent landmarks were described and the tubercle of the trapezium was redefined. The incidence of the salient osteological features in Caucasian trapezia was recorded.
Supplier evaluations: communication strategies to improve supplier performance
Authors: Prahinski Carol , Benton W.C
Published: January 2004

As firms increasingly emphasize cooperative relationships with critical suppliers, executives of buyer firms are using supplier evaluations to ensure that their performance objectives are met. Supplier evaluations, one type of supplier development program (SDP), are an attempt to meet current and future business needs by improving supplier performance and capabilities. The purpose of this study was to determine how suppliers perceive the buying firm’s supplier evaluation communication process and its impact on suppliers’ performance. Three communication strategies (indirect influence strategy, formality and feedback) were tested separately and one in unison (collaborative).

Using structural equation modeling (SEM) and data collected from 139 first‐tier North American automotive suppliers, the results of this research have shown that, contrary to the SDP literature from the buying firm’s perspective, the supplier’s perceptions of the buying firm’s communication does not directly influence suppliers’ performance. Specifically, the supplier evaluation communication process does not ensure improved supplier performance unless the supplier is committed to the buying firm. Buying firms can influence the supplier’s commitment through increased efforts of cooperation and commitment. The results also indicate that when a buying firm utilizes collaborative communication, the supplier perceives a positive influence on the buyer–supplier relationship.
A Mathematical Therapeutic Outcomes Model for Sinusitis
Authors: Poole Michael D.
Published: January 2004

The therapeutic outcomes model (TOM) provides a logical and consistent manner in which bacteriologic and clinical efficacy can be predicted and calculated. It not only allows antibiotics to be ranked in efficacy, it gives precise estimates of the magnitude of differences in efficacy, which is typically lacking in older antimicrobial guidelines. The TOM identifies the major variables that need to be considered in accurately estimating outcome and places those variables into the appropriate relationships and formulas so that outcomes will be automatically calculated. In the case of rhinosinusitis, the major variables are (1) likelihood of spontaneously resolving nonbacterial cause, (2) likelihood of nonresolving nonbacterial cause, (3) prevalence of subcauses (eg, different species of bacteria), (4) the spontaneous resolution rates of each subcause, (5) the antibacterial efficacy of the treatment (eg, antibiotic) against each of the subcauses, and (6) the compliance rate of the treatment recommended. Minor variables, such as prior antibiotic use, patient age, or bacterial vaccination status, affect the efficacy of a given agent by modifying the value of one or more of the major variables. The TOM is a superior mechanism for ranking and evaluating relative antibiotic efficacy than previous methodologies.
MR Imaging of Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Ligament Injuries
Authors: CONNELL D. A. , PIKE J. , KOULOURIS G. , VAN WETTERING N. , HOY G.
Published: January 2004

This study describes the MR imaging appearances of the supporting ligaments of the thumb carpometacarpal joint in asymptomatic volunteers and in a group of patients following joint injury. Fourteen patients with 11 acute and three chronic injuries underwent MR imaging. The anterior oblique ligament was the most commonly injured ligament, usually on the metacarpal side where it was disrupted, or allowed dislocation because of subperiosted stripping from the base of the thumb metacarpal. The dorsal radial ligament was occasionally avulsed or partially torn from the trapezoid. Following chronic injury, MR imaging can evaluate ligamentous laxity, ganglion cyst formation or osteoarthritis. Accurate evaluation of ligament injury may identify patients who would benefit from surgery.
Pulmonary and Biceps Function after Intercostal and Phrenic Nerve Transfer for Brachial Plexus Injuries
Authors: CHALIDAPONG P. , SANANPANICH K. , KRAISARIN J. , BUMROONGKIT C.
Published: January 2004

This pseudo-randomized study was performed to compare the pulmonary function and biceps recovery after intercostal (19 cases) and phrenic (17 cases) nerve transfer to the musculocutaneous nerve for brachial plexus injury patients with nerve root avulsions. Pulmonary function was assessed pre-operatively and postoperatively by measuring the forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, vital capacity, and tidal volume. Motor recovery of biceps was serially recorded. Our results revealed that pulmonary function in the phrenic nerve transfer group was still significantly reduced 1 year after surgery. In the intercostal nerve transfer group, pulmonary function was normal after 3 months. Motor recovery of biceps in the intercostal nerve group was significantly earlier than that in phrenic nerve group.

We conclude that pulmonary and biceps functions are better after intercostal nerve transfer than after phrenic nerve transfer in the short term at least.
A Model for the Conservative Management of Mallet Finger
Authors: RICHARDS S. D. , KUMAR G. , BOOTH S. , NAQUI S. Z. , MURALI S. R.
Published: January 2004

This prospective study assessed the results of a custom-made thermoplastic splint for treatment of mallet finger deformity. From April 1999 to April 2000, 42 patients with mallet finger deformity were recruited. All patients were seen within 1 week and treated with a thermoplastic splint custom made by the hand therapy department. The splint was simple to make, easy to fit and suitable for all finger shapes and sizes. It improved the deformity in 30 out of 34 cases, and caused no skin irritation.
Giant Cell Tumours of the Tendon Sheath: Lack of Correlation between nm23-H1 Expression and Recurrence
Authors: LORÉA P. , VAN DE WALLE H. , KINNEN L. , LEDOUX P. , MOERMANS J-P. , VAN DEN HEULE B.
Published: January 2004

Some authors attribute recurrences of giant cell tumours to biological factors which are only expressed in some tumours. Grover et al. (1998) suggested that the risk for recurrence is associated with the down-regulation of the nm23-H1 gene. We reviewed the charts of the 154 patients operated on for giant cell tumours of the tendon sheath and selected a group of patients with recurrence (ten cases) and a group of patients who did not have a recurrence after a minimum follow-up of 3 years (13 cases). Immunohistochemical detection of nm23-H1 was performed blindly of the clinical outcome on the paraffin-embedded specimens of these patients and no correlation was found between nm23-H1 expression and the risk for recurrence.
Carpal Ligament Decompression Under Local Anaesthesia: the Effect of lidocaine warming and Alkalinisation on Infiltration Pain
Authors: YIANNAKOPOULOS C. K.
Published: January 2004

This study investigated the effects of alkalinization and warming of lidocaine 1% on injection pain in patients undergoing carpal tunnel decompression. Sixty-four adult patients were randomly allocated into one of three groups: Group A ( n=20) received plain lidocaine 1%, Group B ( n = 22) alkalinized lidocaine and Group C ( n = 22) warmed and alkalinized lidocaine. Pain on needle insertion and on infiltration was assessed using a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). There was no significant difference regarding pain on needle insertion whereas significant differences were noted in reference to infiltration pain. In Groups B and C (alkalinized lidocaine) the VAS scores on skin infiltration were significantly lower than in Group A, while the pain score in Group C (alkalinized and warmed lidocaine) was significantly lower than in Group B.
Nomenclature in the Journal of Hand Surgery
Authors: KUMAR G. , KAMATH V. , MURALI S. R.
Published: January 2004

Unambiguous description of anatomical structures is essential to communicate information either in the clinical or research context. In view of this and following recommendations by the Nomenclature Committee of the International Societies for Surgery of the Hand (IFSSH), the booklet “Terminology for Hand Surgery” was published in 2001. The aim of this study was to identify whether the nomenclature used in the papers published in the Journal of Hand Surgery (British and European volume) followed its recommendations.

The study showed that we still continue to use traditional terminology. The most common “mistake” is numbering of the metacarpals instead of naming them. Usage of newer terms would improve the clarity of information distributed.
Three-Dimensional Video Analysis of Forearm Rotation before and After Combined Pronator Teres Rerouting and Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Tendon Transfer Surgery in Patients with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: KREULEN M. , SMEULDERS M. J. C. , VEEGER H. E. J. , HAGE J. J. , VAN DER HORST C. M. A. M.
Published: January 2004

The effect of combined pronator teres rerouting and flexor carpi ulnaris transfer on forearm rotation was prospectively studied by comparison of pre- and postoperative three-dimensional analysis of forearm range of motion in ten patients with cerebral palsy. One year postoperatively, surgery had improved maximal supination of the forearm in all patients by an average of 63°, but there was also a mean loss of 40° pronation. Forearm range of motion increased by a mean of 23°. The centre of the range of motion on average shifted 52° in the direction of supination. Based on these results of objective forearm range of motion analysis, we conclude that the common combination of pronator teres rerouting and flexor carpi ulnaris transfer in patients with cerebral palsy effectively facilitates active supination but impairs active pronation.
The Borders of Time, Place, and People in John Sayles's Lone Star
Authors: BARR ALAN P.
Published: January 2004

John Sayles's Lone Star (1996) is the embodiment of a “frontier” film; he himself has described it as “a story about borders” (West, “An Interview with John Sayles,” 14). The film's genre, its locale, its incorporation of history, ethnicity, generations, and sexual proscriptions, and even its use of pans to cut across time all cohere around this perspective. Nor, as I will indicate, is this concern with borders new to Sayles's art; Lone Star, which taps a number of motifs and conventions familiar to American culture, bringing together a multitude of meanings of boundaries and margins and frontiers, intensifies a theme that exists in every one of his films.
Paul Auster's Specters
Authors: JAHSHAN PAUL
Published: January 2004

When the prophetic seer was asked whether this boy [Narcissus] would live to a ripe old age, he replied: ‘Yes, if he does not come to know himself.’

Unwittingly, he [Narcissus] desired himself, and was himself the object of his own approval, at once seeking and sought … But he could not lay hold upon himself … Poor foolish boy, why vainly grasp at the fleeting image that eludes you?

For knowledge comes slowly, and when it comes, it is often at great personal expense.

There is more than one specter haunting Paul Auster's Ghosts. The novel is, indeed, riddled with specters (puns intended): Auster, as writer, haunts a text where reader and critic alike hopelessly strive to catch an equally elusive meaning. I intend to show, in this paper, how Auster, following a lineage going back to the metafiction writers of the late 1960s, passing by others loosely grouped under the term “post-structuralists,” more importantly heralds a new era, and manages to present, in one novel, a full-fledged allegory of how postmodern writing and reading can successfully negotiate the new challenges presented by the dawning virtual age, focusing on the twin concepts of the mirror and the double and the resulting spectral image(s) produced.
1898: The opposition to the Spanish-American war
Authors: GLEIJESES PIERO
Published: January 2004

This article focuses on the months before the Spanish-American war began in April 1898 and addresses two related questions: first, why was the opposition to the war so strong in the United States; second, why did it not prevail? To explore these questions, the papers of the McKinley administration are examined, along with the Congressional Record and forty-one US newspapers, as well as twelve major European newspapers (British, French, German and Spanish) and the relevant documents from the British and Spanish archives. It is only in the press that one can find a coherent, well-articulated and explicit explanation of the antiwar position.
From Exclusion to Inclusion: Bolivia's 2002 Elections
Authors: VAN COTT DONNA LEE
Published: January 2004

In Bolivia's 2002 national elections indigenous-movement-based political parties combined to capture 27 per cent of the vote, far surpassing their previous performance and constituting a major improvement in the representation of the country's excluded indigenous majority. Using a social movement theory framework, I attribute this result to five interacting factors: institutional changes that opened the system; the collapse of two competitive parties; the consolidation of indigenous peoples' social movement organisations; the unpopularity of the Banzer-Quiroga government and the intense anti-government mobilisations it provoked in 2000; and the ability of the indigenous parties to capitalise on growing nationalist, anti-US public sentiment.
Excretion of fluorescent substrates of mammalian multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) in theSchistosoma mansoniexcretory system
Authors: SATO H. , KUSEL J. R. , THORNHILL J.
Published: January 2004

The protonephridium of platyhelminths includingSchistosoma mansoniplays a pivotal role in their survival by excretion of metabolic wastes as well as xenobiotics, and can be revealed in the living adult parasite by certain fluorescent compounds which are concentrated in excretory tubules and collecting ducts. To determine the presence of the multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) as a possible transporter in protonephridial epithelium, adult schistosomes were exposed to a fluorescent Ca2+indicator, fluo-3 acetyloxymethyl ester, which is a potential substrate of mammalian MRP. Specific fluorescence related to fluo-3/Ca2+chelate delineated the whole length of the protonephridial system. Simultaneously, a fluorescent substance was accumulated in the posterior part of collecting ducts and the excretory bladder. Similarly, when other fluorogenic substrates for mammalian MRP such as monoclorobimane, fluorescein diacetate, and 5(6)-carboxyfluorescein diacetate were applied to adult schistosomes, these fluorescent markers were observed in the excretory tubules through to the excretory bladder. The excretory system of mechanically-transformed schistosomula was not labelled with any of these 4 fluorescent markers. These findings suggest that the protonephridial epithelium of adult schistosomes, but not schistosomula, might express the homologue of the mammalian MRP transporting organic anionic conjugates with glutathione, glucuronate or sulphate as well as unconjugated amphiphilic organic anions.
Parasite alteration of host shape: a quantitative approach to gigantism helps elucidate evolutionary advantages
Authors: McCARTHY H. O. , FITZPATRICK S. M. , IRWIN S. W. B.
Published: January 2004

This investigation quantifies some aspects of the parasite–host relationship between the digeneanMicrophallus piriformesand its intermediate hostLittorina saxatilis, the rough periwinkle.M. piriformeshas an abridged life-cycle with no free-living stages, metacercariae remain within host viscera. Noticeable differences in shell shape of parasitized and uninfected periwinkles were investigated. These differences in shell shape were defined by growth parameters of height, diameter and β angle. The relationship between these parameters was examined together with their impact on parasite reproduction. All 3 shape parameters were altered in periwinkles infected byM. piriformes. The alteration in β angle and height increased the available volume for parasites in the shell spire by about 12%. As metacercarial production per sporocyst has been shown to depend on host size, the increased volume enables considerable additional life-time reproduction by the parasite, of approximately 550–850 additional metacercariae in hosts of the usual size range. The form of gigantism found in this study is discussed in relation to previous concepts. It is suggested that gigantism in permanently castrated hosts is adaptive parasite manipulation of host physiology, favoured in parasites with abbreviated life-cycles, when host viability increases parasite transmission, and when an initially small host individual is infected.
Comparative assessment of conventional PCR with multiplex real-time PCR using SYBR Green I detection for the molecular diagnosis of imported malaria
Authors: FABRE R. , BERRY A. , MORASSIN B. , MAGNAVAL J. F.
Published: January 2004

For the diagnosis of imported malaria, optical or immunochromatographic methods are known to be less sensitive and less specific than PCR-based methods, which are conversely more complicated and time-consuming. An original strategy, based upon the sequential use of a multiplex competitive real-time PCR detectingPlasmodium falciparumorPlasmodiumspp. infection, followed by, if necessary, a single real-time PCR for species identification, was therefore performed and then tested versus conventional PCR in routine conditions. Conventional PCR has been used since October 1999 in the Department of Parasitology, University Hospitals in Toulouse, as a 2nd line diagnostic method. Out of 183 patients tested, 48 were found to be harbouring a falciparum infection by conventional microscopy, 60 by conventional PCR and 60 by multiplex competitive real-time PCR. Nine further patients had a non-falciparum infection, and concordant species identifications were obtained by both conventional PCR and single real-time PCR. The major value of PCR-based methods, when compared to microscopical techniques, was to ascertain the negativity of a suspect sample. Moreover, real-time PCR allows simplification of the operating procedure, with a diagnosis being made within 2 h.
Stage-specific and species-specific differences in the production of the mRNA and protein for the filarial nematode secreted product, ES-62
Authors: STEPEK G. , HOUSTON K. M. , GOODRIDGE H. S. , DEVANEY E. , HARNETT W.
Published: January 2004

Previous studies have shown that the secreted phosphorylcholine-containing glycoprotein of filarial nematodes, ES-62, is only present in the post-infective life-cycle stages, but that the mRNA is transcribed throughout the worm's life-cycle. The aim of this current study was to investigate whether the presence or absence of protein expression simply reflects differences in mRNA abundance. To this end, we investigated the relative abundance of ES-62 using TaqMan real time RT-PCR, in different life-cycle stages of 2 model filarial nematode parasites,Acanthocheilonema viteaeandBrugia pahangi. ForB. pahangi, microfilariae, infective larvae and adult worms were each found to have approximately similar levels of ES-62 mRNA. However, the corresponding stages ofA. viteaediffered greatly from each other with a pattern of increased mRNA production with maturation. As a ruleA. viteaehad higher levels of ES-62 mRNA thanB. pahangi, and this was particularly noticeable in the adult stage where the difference was approximately 3500-fold higher. However, this significant difference in mRNA abundance was not reflected in the quantity of ES-62 protein secreted by the adult worms of each species, asA. viteaeonly secreted ~3 times as much ES-62 asB. pahangi. Thus, overall, the results obtained from this study indicate that ES-62 protein production does not solely reflect mRNA levels, and also suggest that the 2 nematodes may employ different mechanisms for regulating protein production.
Ion channels ofFasciola hepaticaincorporated into planar lipid bilayers
Authors: JANG J. H. , KIM S. D. , PARK J. B. , HONG S. J. , RYU P. D.
Published: January 2004

Ion channels are important target sites of anthelmintics, but little is known about those inFasciola hepatica. In this work, we applied a planar lipid bilayer technique to characterize the properties of single ion channels inF. hepatica. Under a 200/40 mMKCl gradient, a large conductance channel of 251 pS was observed in 18% of the membranes studied. The channel was selective to K+over Cl−with a permeability ratio of K+to Cl−(PK/PCl) of 4·9. Open state probability (Po) of the channel was less than 0·5 and dependent on voltage (−60~+40 mV) and Ca2+(~100 μM). The other two types of single channels observed in 11 and 5% of membranes, respectively, were a K+-permeable channel of 80 pS (PK/PCl=4·6) and a Cl−-permeable channel of 64 pS (PK/PCl=0·058). Open state probability of both channels showed little voltage dependence. The results indicate that distinct single channels of 60~251 pS are present in relative abundance and, in addition, that the planar lipid bilayer technique can be a useful tool for the study of single ion channels inF. hepatica.
Within-host dynamics of a microsporidium with horizontal and vertical transmission:Octosporea bayeriinDaphnia magna
Authors: VIZOSO D. B. , EBERT D.
Published: January 2004

The fresh-water crustaceanDaphnia magnamay acquire an infection with the microsporidiumOctosporea bayerieither by ingesting spores from the water (horizontally), or directly from its mother (vertically). Due to differences in the time and mechanisms of transmission, horizontal and vertical infections may lead to differences in the growth of the parasite within the host. This may influence parasite virulence, transmission to new hosts, and, consequently, epidemiology and evolution. Here we describe the within-host dynamics of 3 spore-types ofO.bayerifrom infections that were acquired either horizontally or vertically. In all treatments the number of spores increased exponentially until spore density reached a plateau, suggesting density-dependent within-host growth. The spore types seen differ in their growth dynamics, suggesting different roles in the parasite life-cycle. Horizontally-infected hosts harboured significantly fewer spores than vertically-infected hosts. Further, host survival was affected by infection route, with mortality being higher in horizontal infections than in vertical infections. Our results suggest that different routes of infection have an immediate effect on within-host parasite growth and thus on parasite fitness and epidemiology.
Deep-sea hydrothermal vent parasites: why do we not find more?
Authors: BURON I. de , MORAND S.
Published: January 2004

While parasitism is recognized as the most common mode of existence on the planet, and hosts from virtually all ecosystems have been studied, very little is known about the parasites found in deep-sea hydrothermal vent ecosystems and even less is known about their ecology, evolution, and effects on their hosts. The purpose of this work is to offer a comprehensive review of our state of knowledge about parasitism in the deep-sea vents and to pose and address specific questions for future studies. Because the deep-sea environment itself may influence the number and types of parasites found in the vents, non-vent (below 1000 m) and vent deep-sea data were used in a comparative analysis to account for this factor as a potential major determinant of the parasite fauna in the vents. Based upon analysis of these data, it is highly likely that the reason why so few parasites are currently known from deep-sea vents, even given the low diversity of hosts in this ecosystem, is simply that their inconspicuous nature has caused them to be overlooked by vent biologists.