bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is a day hospital rehabilitation programme associated with reduction of handicap in stroke patients?
Authors: Hershkovitz Avital , Beloosesky Yichayaou , Brill Shai , Gottlieb Daniel
Published: April 2004

Objective: (1) To assess whether a rehabilitation day hospital programme is associated with a reduced handicap level of stroke patients. (2) To estimate the relationship between the London Handicap Scale (LHS) and other outcome measures. (3) To examine the effect of demographic parameters (age, gender, family status, education) on LHS scores.

Design: A prospective longitudinal survey.

Setting: An urban geriatric rehabilitation day hospital.

Subjects: Two hundred and seven elderly stroke patients admitted between December 1999 and February 2001. Main outcome measures: London Handicap Scale (LHS), Functional Independent Measure (FIM), Nottingham Extended ADL Index, timed get up and go test.

Results: LHS scores at discharge changed significantly (p < 0.008) for mobility, physical independence and occupation. The overall change in LHS score was 2.3 points (20%); effect size 0.43. A significant relationship was found between discharge score of LHS and admission score of FIM, Nottingham Index, timed get up and go and age. Multiple linear regressions did not identify a good predictor for the discharge score of LHS. Higher education was associated with higher LHS scores on admission (p= 0.016) but with less success in correcting handicap (p= 0.046).

Conclusions: A day hospital programme is associated with reduced level of handicap in stroke patients. The LHS is a useful and simple scale for measuring change in these patients. LHS in stroke patients correlates with other outcome measures, yet they cannot be used interchangeably. A significant relationship between education and level of handicap exists.
Long-term mobility monitoring of older adults using accelerometers in a clinical environment
Authors: Culhane K M , Lyons G M , Hilton D , Grace P A , Lyons D
Published: April 2004

Objective: To assess the accuracy of accelerometer-based mobility monitoring during extended measurements on older adults in a clinical setting and to evaluate two different approaches to thresholding.

Design: The monitoring device consisted of two Analog Devices ADXL202 accelerometers, an ambulatory data-logger and associated cabling. The monitoring system used custom-designed analysis software to detect activities of daily living, namely duration of sitting, standing, lying and moving during the period monitored. An investigator shadowed the subjects throughout the recording period.

Subjects and setting: This study monitored five older adults, with varying degrees of mobility, resident in a rehabilitation clinic, over four days.

Interventions: The accelerometer data were analysed using a MATLABÒ program that allowed trunk and thigh threshold angles to be set to distinguish between sitting, standing, lying and moving. Two different approaches to setting these thresholds were investigated: (1) using a midpoint tolerance value of 458 and (2) using a `best estimate' tolerance value. The analysis program generates a summary of activities, which is then compared line-by-line with the manual summary created by the observer. The result was a hit/miss ratio representative of the system's accuracy.

Results: The detection accuracies for sitting and lying using a mid-point tolerance value were poor, with an average detection accuracy of 75% obtained. The `best estimate' approach improved the detection accuracies for sitting and lying by approximately 18% to an average value of 93%.

Conclusion: In a population of older adults, the static activities of sitting, standing and lying and dynamic activities can be distinguished using the technique and threshold values outlined here to a degree of accuracy of 92% and higher.
Locomotion skills in adults with cerebral palsy
Authors: Jahnsen R , Villien L , Egeland T , Stanghelle J K
Published: April 2004

Objectives: To investigate self-reported locomotion skills in persons with cerebral palsy (CP) and to investigate variables potentially associated with deterioration of walking skills.

Design: Cross-sectional retrospective survey.

Setting and subjects: A multidimensional mailed questionnaire was sent to 766 persons with CP, 18 years or over, without intellectual disabilities, living in Norway.

Main outcome measures: The questionnaire consisted of demographic and diagnostic items, items on locomotion skills, and physical function (SF-36).

Results: In total 406 persons, 51% males and 49% females from 18 to 72 years (mean 34 years, SD 11 years) with all categories of CP responded. Median age for reported walking debut was 3 years, with a range from 1 to 14 years. In total 216 respondents (53%) walked without support, 104 persons (25%) walked with support, 39 persons (10%) had lost their walking skills, and 47 (12%) had never been able to walk. Mean level of physical function (SF-36) was 53 out of 100. There were 97 persons (27%) who reported improvement of walking skills, mainly before 25 years, 102 (28%) reported no change, and 160 (44%) reported deterioration, mainly before 35 years of age. Deterioration was significantly associated with older age, delayed walking debut and severe neurological impairment. Self-reported causes of deterioration were pain, fatigue and lack of adapted physical activity.

Conclusion: Deterioration of locomotion skills is a significant problem in persons with CP from an early age, documenting the need for life-long follow-up. The predictors above should be investigated in further clinical studies, searching for potential causal pathways.
Combined analysis of two randomized trials of community physiotherapy for patients more than one year post stroke
Authors: Green John , Young John , Forster Anne , Collen Fiona , Wade Derick
Published: April 2004

Background: Some patients continue to have mobility problems as a long-term consequence of stroke and it is unclear whether routine, further contact with a physiotherapy service is beneficial. Two single-centre, randomized controlled trials of physiotherapy for patients more than one year post stroke have been undertaken in Oxford and Bradford in the UK and the results from these two trials have been combined to give a more precise estimate of effectiveness.

Method: The computerized databases from both trials were combined for a joint analysis. Outcome measures common to both trials were: Rivermead Mobility Index; gait speed measured over 10 metres; Barthel Index; Frenchay Activities Index; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.

Results: There were 264 patients available for the combined analysis (Oxford= 94; Bradford= 170). There was a significant but clinically small improvement in mobility at three months in the combined treatment group measured by the Rivermead Mobility Index (median of the differences= 0 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0, 1); interpolated values= 0.43 (95% CI 0.08, 0.80)) and gait speed (treatment effect 2.7 m/min (95% CI 0.94, 4.46)). There were no other significant differences. Intervention given in both studies was at the discretion of the physiotherapists and was of similar and low intensity (mean visits Oxford= 4 (SD 2.5); Bradford= 5 (SD 4.5)).

Conclusion: A more effective physiotherapy intervention is required for stroke patients with persisting mobility problems after stroke.
Cognitive and behavioural effects of music-based exercises in patients with dementia
Authors: Van de Winckel Ann , Feys Hilde , De Weerdt Willy , Dom René
Published: April 2004

Objective: To evaluate the effect of a musical exercise programme on mood state and cognitive function in women with dementia.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Public Psychiatric Hospital Rekem, Belgium.

Patients: Twenty-five patients with dementia.

Interventions: Fifteen patients attended exercise training for three months, which consisted of daily physical exercises supported by music for 30 min/session. They were compared with a group of 10 control patients, who received an equal amount of attention through daily conversation.

Main measures: The effect on cognition was measured by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Amsterdam Dementia Screening Test 6 (ADS 6). Behaviour was evaluated with the abbreviated Stockton Geriatric Rating Scale (BOP scale). The assessments were made before, after six weeks of intervention and immediately after the three-month experimental period.

Results: The exercise group showed a significant improvement in cognition. This was documented by an increased MMSE mean score of 12.87-15.53, and by a higher median score, rising from 10 to 14 points, on the subset ‘fluency’ (ADS 6 test). The control group showed no significant improvement, either on the MMSE (mean score of 10.80 -11.00) or on the fluency subtest of the ADS 6 (median scores were 6.5-7 points). The effects on behavioural changes were not significant.

Conclusion: The present study suggests a beneficial effect of cognition using a music-based exercise programme in a group of patients with moderate to severe dementia. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Evaluation of an extended stroke unit service with early supported discharge for patients living in a rural community. A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Askim T , Rohweder G , Lydersen S , Indredavik B
Published: April 2004

Objective: To evaluate the effect of an extended stroke unit service (extended service), with early supported discharge and co-ordination of further rehabilitation in co-operation with the primary health care system in three rural municipalities.

Design: A randomized controlled trial comparing extended service with ordinary stroke unit service (ordinary service).

Subjects: Sixty-two eligible patients with acute stroke living in the rural municipalities of Malvik, Melhus and Klñ bu.

Main measures: The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who were independent according to Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) (independence = mRS < 2) 52 weeks after onset of stroke. Secondary outcomes were mRS at 6 and 26 weeks and Barthel Index (BI), Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) and Caregiver Strain Index (CSI) at 6, 26 and 52 weeks. Mortality and length of stay were registered during the 52 weeks.

Results: Twelve patients (39%) in the extended service group versus 16 patients (52%) in the ordinary service group were independent according to mRS at 52 weeks (p= 0.444). The odds ratio for independence (extended service versus ordinary service) was 0.33 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.088 –1.234). According to outcome by secondary measures there were no significant differences except less social isolation on NHP in the extended service group at 26 weeks (p= 0.046). There were no significant differences in length of stay.

Conclusion: An extended stroke unit service with early supported discharge seems to have no positive effect on functional outcome for patients living in rural communities, but might give a trend toward better quality of life. There were no significant differences in length of stay.
‘Spatial’ relationships? Towards a reconceptualization of embedded ness
Authors: Hess Martin
Published: April 2004

The concept of embeddedness has gained much prominence in economic geography over the last decade, as much work has been done on the social and organizational foundations of economic activities and regional development. Unlike the original conceptualizations, however, embeddedness is mostly conceived of as a ‘spatial’ concept related to the local and regional levels of analysis. By revisiting the early literature on embeddedness in particular the seminal work of Karl Polanyi and Mark Granovetter and critically engaging with what I will call an ‘overterritorialized’ concept, a different view on the fundamental categories of embeddedness is proposed. This reconceptualization then is illustrated using the poststructuralist metaphor of a rhizome to interpret the notion of embeddedness and its applicability to different geographical scales.
Tuberculosis in Turkish patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: increased frequency of extrapulmonary localization
Authors: Sayarlioglu M , Inanc M , Kamali S , Cefle A , Karaman O , Gul A , Ocal L , Aral O , Konice M
Published: April 2004

The objectivewas to investigatethe frequencyand characteristicsof tuberculosis(TB) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We reviewed the charts of 556 patients with SLE who were followed up between 1978 and 2001 in our lupus clinic. Patientswho developedTB after the diagnosis of SLE were identified (SLE/TB). Ninety-six consecutive patients with SLE who did not develop TB during the follow-up were evaluated as a control group (SLE/TB-). Clinical, laboratory and management characteristics of these two groups of patients were recorded according to a predefined protocol, and compared. Of the 556 patients evaluated, 20 patients (3.6%) with TB were identified. Nine of the 20 patients (45%) had extrapulmonary TB (vertebral involvement in three patients, meningeal in two, and joint and soft tissue in four). Arthritis and renal involvement were significantly high in the SLE/TB group (P 0.045, P 0.009, respectively). The mean daily dose of prednisolonebefore the diagnosis of TB and the cumulative dose of prednisolonewere significantly higher in the SLE/TB group compared to the SLE/TB- group (27 + 22 g versus 16 + 16 g, 24 + 45 mg versus 11 + 8.5 mg, respectively). In conclusion, we found an increased frequency of TB infection and a high prevalence of extrapulmonary TB in a large cohort of SLE patients. The mean daily dose of prednisolonebefore the diagnosisof TB and the cumulativedose of prednisolone, which possibly related to disease severity, were important determinants for the increased risk of TB in these patients with SLE.
Quality of life in paediatric lupus
Authors: Moorthy L Nandini , Robbins L , Harrison M J , Peterson M GE , Cox N , Onel K B , Lehman T JA
Published: April 2004

Paediatric systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with significant morbidity and has biopsychosocialimplications resulting from the disease and its treatment. The aim of this study was to identify domains of quality of life (QOL) impacted by SLE in children. Children with SLE and their parents were asked a single open-ended question related to lupus. Themes derived from children’s responsesfocused primarily on coping and maintaining control of their life despite SLE. Themes from the parents’ responses were twofold: a) efforts to cope with their child having SLE; and b) appreciation/sadness in connection with their children’s coping process. Qualitative exploration of differentfacets of QOL in these children is critical for the understandingof specific factors that assist/ease the coping process and formulating interventions for improving children’s/family’s self-efficacy and disease management.
IgA and IgG tissue transglutaminase antibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Marai I , Shoenfeld Y , Bizzaro N , Villalta D , Doria A , Tonutti E , Tozzoli R
Published: April 2004

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and coeliac disease (CD) are diseases of an autoimmune origin that share the human leukocyte HLA-B8 and HLA-DR3 histocompatibility antigens, yet the co-association of CD with SLE is mainly based on case reports. Thus, the real prevalence of CD in SLE is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of antitissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG) in SLE and the relation between SLE and CD. In this case-control study, 100 patients with SLE, and 120 healthy subjects were studied. Sera from all participantswere analysed for the presence of IgA and IgG anti-tTG antibodies using a human recombinant tissue transglutaminase (tTG) immuno-enzymatic assay. Anti-tTG positive patients and controls were further tested for anti-endomysial (EMA) antibodies by an indirect immunofluorescence and HLA typing (DQa1*0501- DQb1* 0201 allele determination). Subjects who had EMA or the mentioned allele, underwent duodenal biopsy to confirm a possible diagnosis of CD. Anti-tTG antibodies (IgA or IgG isotypes) were found in three of the 100 SLE patients (overall prevalence of 3%): one had the IgA and two the IgG isotypes.Only 1 of 120 healthy subjects(0.8%) had a low positivereactionfor IgA anti-tTG. Only the IgA anti-tTG positiveSLE patient was diagnosed as having CD based on a positive IgA-EMA and small bowel biopsy findings. The two IgG anti-tTG positive SLE patients and the IgA anti-tTG positive healthy subject were classified as false positives (EMA negative and HLA DQa1*0501- DQb1* 0201 allele negative). In conclusion, anti-tTG antibodies were found at a low rate in SLE patients and mostly did not indicate the presence of CD. Thus, serological screening for CD is not recommended in SLE, unless a clinical suspicion of CD is present.
Complement-fixing properties of antinuclear antibodies distinguish drug-induced lupus from systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Rubin R L , Teodorescu M , Beutner E H , Plunkett R W
Published: April 2004

The immunofluorescence antinuclear antibody (ANA) test has been widely used to monitor autoimmune disease, but its value for diagnostic purposes is compromised by low specificity and high prevalence in disease-free individuals. The capacity of autoantibodies to fix serum complement proteins when bound to antigen is an important effector function because this property is associated with acute and chronic inflammatory processes. The current study evaluates the complement-fixing properties of antinuclear antibodies (CANA) in three well-defined and clinically-related patient groups: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), drug-induced lupus (DIL) and drug-induced autoimmunity (DIA). Of 20 patients diagnosed with SLE, 90% displayed complement-fixing ANA while this feature was present in only two of 18 patients with DIL and no patients with DIA without associated disease even though the mean ANA titres were similar among these patient groups. CANA was significantly correlated with anti-Sm activity. Because SLE but not DIL or DIA can be a life-threatening disease associated with complement consumption in vivo, these results demonstrate that measurement of CANA is a diagnostically useful tool and may have immunopathologic implications.
Increased frequency of GM-CSF secreting PBMC in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus can be reduced by immunoadsorption
Authors: Willeke P , Schlüter B , Schotte H , Erren M , Mickholz E , Domschke W , Gaubitz M
Published: April 2004

An objective was to determine the frequency of GM-CSF secreting peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and their relation to other cytokine secreting PBMC, activation markers on lymphocytes/monocytes, clinical manifestations and anti- dsDNA antibodies.A second objectivewas to further investigatethe influence of immunoadsorption(IA) therapy on these parameters.The number of GM-CSF, interleukin-1b (IL-1b), IL-6, interferon-g (INF-g) or tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) secreting PBMC was assessed by ELISPOT assay in 10 patients with active SLE. Further, the expression of activation markers on lymphocytes and monocytes was determined by flow cytometry. Three courses of IA were performed in the patients. Seventeen healthy, age- and sex-matched volunteers served as controls. GM-CSF secreting PBMC were significantly increased whereas INF-g secreting cells were decreased in SLE patients. The expression of CD71 (transferrin receptor) on CD4 + T-cells and of the costimulatorymolecule CD86 on B-lymphocyteswas significantly increased in SLE patients. GM-CSF secreting PBMC and CD4 + /CD71 + T-cells correlated with anti-dsDNA antibody titres and decreased towards levels of controls during IA. Disease activity and anti-dsDNA autoantibody titres were significantly reduced after the treatment. Our results demonstrate significant alterations of cellular and humoral immunity in SLE patients. The impaired immunity can be modulated by IA. Thus IA may prove an immunomodulatory therapeutic option in addition to the mere depletion of anti-dsDNA autoantibodies.
Acquired ichthyosis associated with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Tlacuilo-Parra J A , Guevara-Gutiérrez E , Salazar-Páramo M
Published: April 2004

Acquired ichthyosis is an uncommon disease, it is characterized by symmetric scaling of the skin, which ranges from minor roughness and dryness to the desquamation of large plaques. It has been associated with various systemic diseases, although malignant conditions, especially Hodgkin’s lymphoma are the most commonly cited. Drugs, HIV infection and autoimmune diseases such as dermatomyositis and mixed connective tissue disease have also been associated, and it has only rarely been found among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, we report a patient with active SLE who developed a generalized acquired ichthyosis corroborated with skin biopsy, which completely disappearedafter treatment. The associationof autoimmune conditionswith acquired ichthyosis could indicate that an abnormal host immune response, probably against components of the granular cell layer in particular the keratohyalin granules, may have a role in the pathogenesis. Thus, this finding may be a relevant cutaneous marker for an autoimmune origin.
Is there an ethnic difference in the prevalence of lupus cystitis? A report of six cases
Authors: Chen Mao-Yuan , Lee Kuang-Lun , Hsu Ping-Ning , Wu Chien-Sheng , Wu Cheng-Han
Published: April 2004

Lupus cystitis was rare but frequently resulted in obstructive uropathy and had a strong association with gastrointestinal(GI) symptoms. We treated six patients with systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) and obstructive uropathy from January 1996 to December 2001 in a university hospital. Evidence of cystitis was obtained from cystoscopic biopsy or the presence of thickened bladder wall in image study. Similar to other reports, five patients had GI manifestations such as abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, diarrhoea or ileus. In addition, mesenteric lymphadenopathy or pancreatitis was noted in three patients. Two patients had been treated for idiopathic thrombocytopenicpurpura (ITP), four and 20 years ago, respectively. All six patients had antibodies to double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). Five patients each had antibodies to cardiolipin (IgG aCL) or SSA. The high prevalence of anti-SSA had also been reported in Chinese lupus patients with intestinal pseudo-obstruction, a clinical manifestation frequently associated with bilateral ureterohydronephrosis. Two patients died of intractable infection after the surgical procedures for persistent ureterohydronephrosis and both patients had antibodies to ribosomal P proteins. Lupus cystitis might not be so rare in Chinese patients with SLE. The diagnosis should be kept in mind when lupus patients have urinary and/or GI symptoms.
Chloroquine gestational use in systemic lupus erythematosus: assessing the risk of child ototoxicity by pure tone audiometry
Authors: Borba E F , Turrini-Filho J R , Kuruma K AM , Bertola C , Pedalini M EB , Lorenzi M C , Bonfá E
Published: April 2004

The objective of this study was to assess child chloroquine ototoxicity after its use during the gestational period in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Nineteen children over four years old were evaluated: nine were exposed to chloroquine diphosphate (CDP) during gestation and 10 were born from mothers that did not take this drug before conception or anytime during pregnancy (CONTROL). Pure tone audiometry was performed in all children and high and low frequency threshold means were compared to evaluate the hearing status. All nine mothers taking CDP were exposed to this drug at least during the first trimester of pregnancy (56% during the whole gestational period) and the mean time of CDP use was 6.1 + 2.9 months. No significant difference was found in children of CDP and CONTROL groups regarding age (7.6 + 4.4 versus 12.3 + 7.2 years; P 0.10, respectively) and gender (P 0.65). Pure tone high frequency thresholds, which are the first to be affected by ototoxic drugs, presented within normal limits in children exposed or not to CDP (8.5 + 5.0 versus 7.4 + 3.6 dBHL; P 0.55, respectively). Likewise, the mean hearing thresholds at low frequencies were also similar in both groups (11.4 + 4.5 versus 11.9 + 3.0 dBHL; P 0.66). In conclusion, child in utero exposure to chloroquine diphosphate does not seem to induce hearing impairment as measured by pure tone audiometry, reinforcing its safe use during pregnancy of lupus patients.
‘The Demolition of a Man’: Lessons From holocaust literature for the teaching of nursing ethics
Authors: McKie Andrew
Published: April 2004

The events of the Holocaust of European Jews (and others) by the Nazi state between 1939 and 1945 deserve to be remembered and studied by the nursing profession. By approaching literary texts written by Holocaust ‘survivors’ from an interpersonal dimension, a reading of such works can develop an ‘ethic of responsibility’. By focusing on such themes as rationality, duty, witness and the virtues, potential lessons for nurses working with people in a variety of settings can be drawn. Implications for the teaching of nursing ethics are made in the areas of the virtues, relationships, professional ethics and the moral community of nursing.
Spectrophotometric Determination of DNA Binding Protein, Histone, with 3,4,5,6-Tetrafluoro-2-carboxyphenylfluorone and Manganese(II)
Authors: Kadobayashi Hiroko , Nakamori Terue , Yamaguchi Takako , Fujita Yoshikazu
Published: April 2004

A sensitive spectrophotometric method for the determination of DNA binding protein, histone, is developed. The proposed method is based on color reaction among histone, 3,4,5,6-tetrafluoro-2-carboxyphenylfluorone (TFCPF) and manganese(II). The coloration obeys Beer’s law in the concentration range of 1.0–20 μg cm−3 histone. Other proteins such as human serum albumin and γ-globulin are scarcely produced colored complexes. A detection test of histone on a spot plate was also studied.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Ultraviolet-emitting Cerium Phosphate Single-crystal Nanowires
Authors: Bu Wen-Bo , Hua Zi-Le , Chen Hang-Rong , Zhang Ling-Xia , Shi Jian-Lin
Published: April 2004

Cerium phosphate single-crystalline nanowires with a narrow distribution of diameters have been successfully synthesized by a mild and simple hydrothermal approach. Photoluminescence of cerium phosphate single-crystalline nanowires show that these nanowires can emit ultraviolet laser light.
Acid-Catalyzed Hydrothermal Formation of Carbon–Carbon Bond in Glycolic Acid from a Series of Formaldehyde Producers
Authors: Morooka Saiko , Wakai Chihiro , Matubayasi Nobuyuki , Nakahara Masaru
Published: April 2004

The acid-catalyzed hydrothermal reaction is reported which forms a new carbon–carbon bond in the hydroxy carboxylic acid. It is found that glycolic acid is produced from formaldehyde in hot water at 225 °C with HCl. This reaction is a chemical evolution process from a C1 compound to a C2, and does not proceed in the absence of acid. A reaction of 0.3 M (mol/dm3) of formaldehyde with the double amount of HCl yielded 60% of the maximum possible amount.
Direct Observation of Long-strand DNA Stretching in Microchannel Flow
Authors: Yamashita Kenichi , Yamaguchi Yoshiko , Miyazaki Masaya , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Shimizu Hazime , Maeda Hideaki
Published: April 2004

This paper reports a direct observation method of macromolecules, such as long-strand DNA, in microchannel flow, and also demonstrates that coil-stretch transition of DNA strands.
A Highly Effective and Practical Biaryl Synthesis with Triallyl(aryl)silanes and Aryl Chlorides
Authors: Sahoo Akhila K , Nakao Yoshiaki , Hiyama Tamejiro
Published: April 2004

A general and convenient approach for the palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling of triallyl(aryl)silanes, stable and easily accessible arylsilanes, with aryl chlorides has been demonstrated. The scope of the reaction is broad and a wide variety of functional groups are tolerant to the present catalyst system.
A Novel Coordination Polymer Incorporating a Dimeric Silver Unit: Increasing Structural Dimensionality through Ag–Ag and Ag–Hetero Atom Interactions
Authors: Adachi Keiichi , Kaizaki Sumio , Yamada Koichi , Kitagawa Susumu , Kawata Satoshi
Published: April 2004

A novel complex assembly [Ag2(tdpd)]n (H2tdpd = 1,4,5,6-tetrahydro-5,6-dioxo-2,3-pyrazinedicarbonitrile) was synthesized and characteraized. [Ag2(tdpd)]n consists of dinuclear modules with Ag–Ag interactions. The dimmer modules are connected each other by additional but effective Ag–hetero atom interactions forming a three-dimensional structure.
Promoting Effect of Nb2O5 Addition to Ni–Cu Catalysts on Hydrogen Production via Methane Decomposition
Authors: Li Jianzhong , Lu Gongxuan , Li Ke
Published: April 2004

The catalytic decomposition of methane to hydrogen and filamentous carbon was carried out over Ni–Cu–Nb2O5 catalysts. The results indicate that the addition of Nb2O5 can promote the carbon capacity of Ni–Cu catalysts, and increase the lifetime of the catalysts in methane decomposition at high temperature. The highest yield of carbon is 743 gC/gNi for 65Ni–10Cu–5Nb2O5, which is one of the highest values among those for catalysts reported so far.
Synthesis and Photovoltaic Effects of Oligothiophenes Incorporated with Two [60]Fullerenes
Authors: Negishi Nobukazu , Takimiya Kazuo , Otsubo Tetsuo , Harima Yutaka , Aso Yoshio
Published: April 2004

The triads (nT-2C60) consisting of one oligothiophene and two fullerenes have been synthesized as single-component materials for photovoltaic cells. The sandwich-type cells of a configuration Al/nT-2C60/Au generate much higher photocurrents than those based on the oligothiophene-fullerene dyads (nT-C60).
Assessment of Ultramicroporosity on Carbon Molecular Sieves by Water Adsorption
Authors: Alcañiz-Monge Juan , Lozano-Castelló Dolores
Published: April 2004

This work is focused on the application of water adsorption to the characterisation of the narrow microporosity (ultramicroporosity) in carbon molecular sieves (CMS). In addition, the mechanism of water adsorption in carbonaceous solids was analysed. Despite the presence of surface groups in these materials, they exhibited low adsorption at low relative pressures (P/P0 < 0.2), indicating the significant role of micropore size in the commencement of water adsorption. Interestingly, it was observed that water adsorbed on samples that did not exhibit CO2 adsorption.
Infrared Spectroscopic Study of the Acidic Character of Modified Alumina Surfaces
Authors: Auroux Aline , Gervasini Antonella
Published: April 2004

The infrared spectra of the hydroxyl region and of the regions associated with chemisorbed CO2 and pyridine species on pure and modified aluminas loaded with various amounts of Li+ or SO2-4 ions were investigated. It was found that, following treatment with lithium acetate or ammonium sulphate, the same –OH groups were involved in both modifications, acting in turn as acidic –OH groups capable of exchanging their protons with lithium ions or as basic groups capable of exchanging with acid sulphate anions or acting as strong nucleophiles to form hydrogen carbonates with carbon dioxide.

Modified alumina experienced a general weakening of its initial Lewis acid centres on loading with Li+ ions. These ions did not act as new Lewis-type acid centres even on high loading. Under these circumstances, in addition to lithium aluminate, they might generate a lithium oxide-type layer or clusters capable of behaving as new basic species forming lithium carbonates upon adsorption of CO2.

Sulphated alumina showed a Brönsted-type acidity presumably due to Al–O–SO3H groups that were detected via the S=O (but not S–OH) absorption frequencies. The basic properties of the parent material were totally suppressed by sulphation.
Enhancement of the Adsorptive Properties of a Desert Salsola Vermiculata Species
Authors: Benderdouche Noureddine , Bestani Benaouda , Benstaali Baghdad , Derriche Zoubir
Published: April 2004

Heat pretreatment, steam activation and 20% phosphoric acid activation were found to enhance the adsorption capacity of a desert Salsola Vermiculata plant species significantly relative to the inactivated plant and powdered wood carbon 600200 EX 694 as obtained from Belgium. The batch adsorption experiments resulted in a maximum adsorption capacity determined from Langmuir models of up to 476 mg/g for acetic acid, 238 mg/g for copper(II) ions and 144 mg/g for nickel(II) ions, whereas for the inactivated plant they attained values of 53 mg/g, 65 mg/g and 18 mg/g, respectively. The results for the wood carbon were 65 mg/g for acetic acid, 45 mg/g for copper(II) ions and 2.4 mg/g for nickel(II) ions. The Freundlich model was found to provide a better description of copper(II) ion adsorption onto the steam- and chemically-activated plant, whereas nickel(II) ion adsorption processes followed Langmuir behaviour. These results showed that the activated plant could prove to be very useful in removing toxic substances from wastewater.
Dynamic-State Adsorption and Elution Behaviour of Uranium(VI) Ions from Seawater by a Fibrous and Porous Adsorbent Containing Amidoxime Chelating Functional Groups
Authors: Zhang Anyun , Uchiyama Gunzo , Asakura Toshihide
Published: April 2004

To develop an advanced recovery process of uranium from seawater using a macroporous fibrous polymeric material containing amidoxime chelating functional groups (FPAO), the static- and dynamic-state adsorption behaviours of U(VI) ions onto a new type of FPAO were investigated at pH 6.0. It was found that the flow rate and the column specification had a distinct influence on the adsorption of U(VI) ions onto FPAO. When the flow rate was varied from 0.95 ml/min to 3.75 ml/min, the amount of U(VI) ions adsorbed decreased from 379.3 mg/g to 340.6 mg/g while the corresponding equilibrium time diminished from 41.2 h to 10 h. When two types of column of different diameter (Φ) and height (h) were employed, viz. Φ 9.4 mm × h 525 mm and Φ 15.5 mm × h 290 mm, the amounts of U(VI) ions adsorbed and the corresponding equilibrium times were 340.6 mg/g and 10 h and 325.9 mg/g and 13.6 h, respectively, at a constant flow rate of 3.70 ml/min. The use of hydrochloric acid as an eluant for U(VI) ions was also examined by varying its concentration, elution flow rate and the column dimensions. Hydrochloric acid eluted U(VI) ions effectively from the loaded FPAO when employed in the concentration range 0.5–1.0 M. The percentage recovery of U(VI) ions calculated under all elution conditions was greater than 99%.
Adsorption and Regeneration Properties of Tyrosine-Imprinted Polymeric Beads
Authors: Zhang Liyong , Cheng Guoxiang , Fu Cong , Liu Xiaohang , Pang Xingshou
Published: April 2004

Tyrosine-imprinted polymeric beads with diameters in the range 120–140 mm were prepared in an aqueous system by seed swelling and suspension polymerization using trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TRIM) as the crosslinking agent and acrylamide (AM), 2-vinylpyridine (VP) and/or 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulphonic acid (AMPS), respectively, as functional monomers (FMs). The molecular recognition properties, dynamic adsorption behaviours and regeneration capabilities of the molecularly imprinted beads (MIBs) were investigated via a solid-phase extraction method.

The functional monomers were found to be indispensable for preparing MIBs with highly specific molecular recognition properties. Irrespective of the choice of FM, when the FM/TRIM molar ratio was 4:15 the MIBs prepared exhibited the most desirable properties for the purposes of this study. When only one FM was used, it was found that AMPS provided the best solution as far as all the adsorption, recognition and regeneration capabilities of the MIBs were concerned. However, MIBs with the best molecular recognition and adsorption properties, and with only a slight sacrifice in their regeneration properties, were prepared using AMPS and VP as bifunctional monomers. For such MIBs, the initial separation factor, α, and static distribution coefficient, KD, were 2.01 and 2.15 ml/g, respectively.
Airframe Noise Study of a Bombardier CRJ-700 Aircraft Model in the NASA Ames 7-by 10-Foot Wind Tunnel
Authors: Soderman P.T. , Kafyeke F. , Boudreau J. , Burnside N.J. , Jaeger S.M. , Chandrasekharan R.
Published: April 2004

An acoustic and aerodynamic experimental study was conducted of a 7%-scale unpowered Bombardier CRJ-700 aircraft model in the NASA Ames 7- by 10-Foot Wind Tunnel for the purpose of identifying and attenuating airframe noise sources. Simulated landing, takeoff and approach configurations were evaluated at Mach 0.22 and 0.26. With a phased-microphone array mounted in the ceiling over the inverted model, various noise sources in the high-lift system, landing gear, fins, and other miscellaneous components were located and compared for sound level and frequency at one flyover location.

Numerous model modifications and noise-alleviation devices were evaluated. Simultaneous with acoustic measurements, aerodynamic forces were recorded to document aircraft conditions and any performance changes caused by the geometric modifications. Such performance changes were small and are not reported here.

Ten airframe noise sources were identified that might be important to approach and landing noise of the full-scale aircraft The top five noise sources were: a) slat gap, b) main gear, c) flap tips at wing crank, d) flap inboard gap, and e) slat inboard tip. Relative strengths of these sources were documented along with their dependence on aircraft configuration and operating condition. Although the data were scaled to full-scale frequencies, no extrapolation to full-scale flyover was attempted.
A Pilot Study of Patients’ Views of an Oral Health Scoring System
Authors: Burke FJ Trevor , Busby Michael , McHugh Siobhan , Mullins Anne , Matthews Roger
Published: April 2004

An oral health scoring system (Oral Health Score: OHS) has been designed to provide a numerical measure of the overall state of a patient's oral health by means of a series of simple clinical examinations.

Objective

To assess, by means of a questionnaire, patients’ opinions of the value of the OHS.

Methods

Eight general dental practitioners who used the OHS were asked to participate in the project. The participating dentists were requested to explain the aims of the project to 50 patients. Patients who agreed to participate were asked to complete a questionnaire after a visit during which the OHS was used. These patients were provided with a reply-paid envelope for the return of the questionnaire.

Results

Completed, usable questionnaires were received from 315 patients. Of respondents, 97% considered that the OHS gave them a better understanding of the condition of their mouth and 98% considered that the OHS was a good method for communication between dentist and patient.

Conclusion

The results of the present study indicate that, within the study group, the OHS is considered by a large majority of patients to be a good method for communication of the patient's oral health between dentist and patient.
Diplomates Day 2004
Authors: Moss Adèle
Published: April 2004

On Saturday, 28th February 2004 the Faculty of General Dental Practitioners (UK) hosted its annual Diplomates Day. A total of 93 individuals received diplomas in the largest ceremony in the Faculty's history, which took place in the grand setting of the Edward Lumley Hall at The Royal College of Surgeons of England.
Internet-derived Patient Information on Common Oral Pathologies: Is it Readable?
Authors: Chestnutt Ivor G
Published: April 2004

Background

The evolution of the Internet has made available to the public vast reserves of information, and it represents a tremendous educational resource. However, it is obviously important that information directed at patients is readable and understandable.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the readability of patient-related Internet sites presenting information on dental caries, periodontal disease, oral cancer and mouth ulcers.

Methodology

Four separate Internet searches seeking patient information on these pathologies were conducted in May 2003. In total, 5127 sites were identified. Within each search, the first 25 sites identified as of relevance to patients seeking information were downloaded (100 in total), and the readability determined using the Flesch reading score and the Flesch-Kinkaid reading level.

Results

A wide range of reading ease scores was obtained, equating to reading ages from seven years to university entry level. The mean reading age of the sites evaluated was 10–11 years of age, higher than the estimated reading age of the UK population in general (nine years). Scores were broadly similar across different pathologies.

Conclusions

Practitioners and other members of the dental team involved in patient education should be aware that additional advice and support may be required to help patients interpret material downloaded from the Internet. Furthermore, those practices presenting educational material on their practice website should bear in mind the need to ensure that it is pitched at a level appropriate to the intended audience.
An Investigation of Aspects of Design of Partial Dentures
Authors: Grey Nick JA , MacDonald Rose
Published: April 2004

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to establish the incidence of the prescription of partial denture design by dentists and also to establish the nature of clasp design, if prescribed.

Basic procedures

Data relating to cobalt-chromium partial dentures were collected from filed slips from a dental laboratory that provided fabricated cobalt-chromium partial dentures for hospital and general dental practitioners. The data collected related to whether or not there was a design for the prosthesis and, also, to the design of clasp (gingivally or occlusally approaching).

Main findings

Only 39% of slips had evidence of a partial denture design and of those, 41.5% involved the prescription of an inappropriate design of clasp.

Principal conclusions

The incidence of partial denture design by a group of dentists using a commercial dental laboratory is unacceptably low. Despite evidence advocating the use of gingivally-approaching clasps on teeth anterior to (and including) premolars, there is still an unacceptably high level of the use of occlusally-approaching designs.
Kinetics and Mechanism of the Mineral Acid Catalysed Reactions of Hydroxamic Acids
Authors: Ghosh Kallol K. , Vaidya Jyoti , Sinha Daliya
Published: April 2004

There is currently a great deal of interest in the chemistry of hydroxamic acids. In recent years we have been studying the synthesis, structure and nucleophilicities of hydroxamic acids. This paper reports a kinetic study of reactivity of some hydroxamic acids RC(O)·N(OH)R′; R=C6H5·CH=CH, R′=4-CH3·C6H4 [p-tolylcinnamo hydroxamic acid]; R=C6H5, R′=4-CH3·C6H4 [p-tolylbenzo hydroxamic acid]; R=C6H5, R′=2-CH3·C6H4 [o-tolylbenzo hydroxamic acid] in aqueous mineral acids (HCl, HClO4 and H2SO4). The rate data of hydrolysis reaction revealed that the reactivity/stability sequence of the compounds is generally p-TBHA>o-TBHA>p-TCHA. An excess acidity analysis reveals that the reaction proceeds by nucleophilic attack of water molecule on the protonated substrate.
Ethnocentrism, Nationalism and Post-nationalism in the Tales of Subcomandante Marcos
Authors: Berghe Kristine , Maddens Bart
Published: April 2004

A discourse analysis shows that the literary passages in subcomandante Marcos’ press releases (Relatos de el viejo Antonio, Chiapas, CIACH, 1998 and Don Durito de la Lacandona, Chiapas, CIACH, 1999) express both the ethnical, national and post-national demands of the EZLN. The analysis reveals three tensions in the discourse, which seem to reflect the divergent pressures on the EZLN.
Cádiz en América: Liberalismo y Constitución
Authors: Frasquet Ivana
Published: April 2004

This article emphasizes the importance of the Constitution of Cádiz in America. The Hispanic Cortes, established in Cádiz, included the colonies as equals. This essay demonstrates that the people of America swore allegiance to the Charter as well as the Cortes’ decrees and that, moreover, the new political order was applied in the New World. The publication—a public ceremony—and application of the Constitution throughout the territories of the Spanish Monarchy was crucial for their subsequent development as liberal states after independence.
Trovafloxacin: An Overview
Authors: Garey Kevin W. , Amsden Guy W.
Published: April 2004

Trovafloxacin, a new synthetic naphthyridine fluoroquinolone antibiotic, is a broad‐spectrum agent available orally and intravenously. It was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of selected pulmonary, surgical, intraabdominal, gynecologic, pelvic, skin, and urinary tract infections. Its spectrum of activity includes aerobic gram‐positive and gram‐negative organisms as well as anaerobic pathogens. It is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, achieves good tissue and cerebrospinal fluid penetration, and has a half‐life that allows once‐daily dosing. It is hepatically metabolized, and dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with severe hepatic dysfunction but not for those with mild or moderate dysfunction or renal dysfunction. The drug has a favorable safety profile, and a high tendency for transient first‐dose dizziness and/or lightheadedness in young women. Similar to other quinolones, trovafloxacin should not be taken with antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium, sucralfate, or ferrous sulfate. Trovafloxacin may prove beneficial as it allows for oral or intravenous monotherapy against indicated infections that normally require multidrug, broad‐spectrum antibiotic coverage.
Slowing the Initial Titration Rate of Tramadol Improves Tolerability
Authors: Ruoff Gary E.
Published: April 2004

Study Objectives. To examine the effect of three titration schedules on the tolerability of tramadol, and to determine whether slow titration would reduce the frequency of drug discontinuation due to adverse events.

Design. Multicenter, outpatient, double‐blind, parallel study.

Setting. Twenty‐eight outpatient study centers.

Subjects. Four hundred sixty‐five patients with chronic joint pain

Interventions. Patients were randomized into one of four treatment groups for 14 days: placebo, or tramadol dosage titrated at 1, 4, or 10 days to achieve the study target dosage of 200 mg/day. They continued taking their dosage of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug during the study. Each group was examined to determine if slower titration resulted in a statistically significant trend toward fewer discontinuations due to nausea and/or vomiting and dizziness and/or vertigo. Discontinuation due to any adverse event was similarly analyzed. If the trend was statistically significant, pairwise comparisons were performed to determine the statistical significance among titration rates.

Measurements and Main Results. A statistically significant trend was seen toward fewer discontinuations as a result of nausea/vomiting, dizziness/vertigo, and any adverse event as the titration rate decreased. Patients with 10‐day titration rate required the fewest discontinuations, and this rate was statistically significantly different from both the 1‐ and 4‐day rates for discontinuations.

Conclusion. A slower rate of initiating tramadol therapy (50‐mg increments every 3 days) improved tolerability with significantly fewer discontinuations due to dizziness or vertigo.