bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro reconstituted skin as a tool for biology, pharmacology and therapy: a review
Authors: Eckes Beate , Krieg Thomas , Nusgens Betty V. , Lapière Charles M.
Published: September 2002

Various culture procedures, suitable to maintain the differentiated phenotype of various types of cells in vitro, have been devised during the past decade. These culture systems use macromolecular components extracted from extracellular matrixes or synthetic polymers which provide cells with a three‐dimensional, spatially structured support. Substantial information has come from the use of collagen lattices. Many types of cells, of mesenchymal or other origin, are able to organize collagen fibrils in these models and to form a connective tissue—like structure. Prerequisites for this process are active function of the cytoskeleton and the expression of α2β1 integrin collagen receptors. Interaction of cells with such a matrix has profound effects on morphologic status, proliferation, cellular metabolism, and state of differentiation. The in vitro procedures reviewed and described in this article offer the possibility to combine different types of cells to approximate the in vivo environment and to investigate such physiologic processes as cell‐cell and cell‐matrix interactions which are otherwise not easily accessible. In pathologic conditions of the skin, these models have proven to be useful tools in investigating diseases relating to impaired recognition of extracellular matrix structures or alterations of cytoskeletal assembly. In pharmacologic and toxicologic studies, activity of drugs and potentially useful therapeutic substances has been evaluated. The use of cells and matrix components derived from skin has lead to refined systems which could be adapted and extended to other organs in an attempt to better understand pathophysiologic mechanisms.
Effect of ultraviolet radiation—induced inflammation on epidermal wound healing
Authors: Kaiser Mark R. , Davis Stephen C. , Mertz Patricia M.
Published: September 2002

To examine the influence of ultraviolet radiation, a potent inducer of interleukin‐1 and other growth factors, on the rate of epidermal migration, we used a porcine model of wound healing. Wounds were treated in one of the following treatment groups: (1) two minimal erythema doses of ultraviolet radiation once daily for 2 days before wounding, (2) two minimal erythema doses of ultraviolet radiation once daily for 2 days before wounding followed with continuous treatment until all wounds were 100% epithelized, (3) or no ultraviolet radiation treatment until healing was complete. Using a macroscopic salt‐split technique, we examined epidermal specimens macroscopically for epithelialization. Treatment both before and after ultraviolet radiation significantly enhanced epithelialization when compared with non‐ultraviolet radiation‐treated control wounds. These experiments show that ultraviolet radiation treatment can augment the rate of healing of partial‐thickness wounds.
Interleukin‐1α gene expression during wound healing
Authors: Robertson Fredika M. , Pellegrini Arthur E. , Ross Mary S. , Oberyszyn Andrew S. , Boros Laszlo G. , Bijur Gautam N. , Sabourin Carol L. K. , Oberyszyn Tatiana M.
Published: September 2002

Interleukin‐1α is known to be constitutively produced by epidermal keratinocytes under normal conditions, and injection of this cytokine enhances wound reepithelialization. However, no studies have characterized the temporal sequence of interleukin‐1α gene expression over the time course of wound healing, and the cellular sources of this cytokine have not been identified. In the present studies, levels of interleukin‐1α messenger RNA in wound tissue isolated from SKH‐1 hairless mice were characterized and the cells that produced interleukin‐1α immunoreactive protein over a 10‐day time course of wound healing were defined. A time‐dependent upregulation in interleukin‐1α gene expression occurred immediately (4 hours) after a full‐thickness wound was made, which represented a four‐fold increase over levels of cytokine gene expression detected in nonwounded skin. Upregulation of cytokine gene expression correlated with an immediate increase in plasma interleukin‐1α levels and was followed by an increase in interleukin‐1α immunoreactive protein localized to keratinocytes within the leading edge of the wound and epidermis, as well as to neutrophils within the dermis. The rapid increase in local and systemic interleukin‐1α levels correlated with the infiltration of a significant number of neutrophils into the wound site and with the proliferation of both basal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts. Given the known ability of interleukin‐1α to regulate proliferation and migration of epidermal keratinocytes and to indirectly induce leukocyte chemotaxis, the results of the present studies suggest that interleukin‐1α may be an important cytokine with both local and systemic actions that are linked to the initiation of critical cellular events early in wound healing.
Ketanserin accelerates wound epithelialization and neovascularization
Authors: Kim Michael , Tuncay Üstüner E. , Schuschke Dale , Morsing Anni , Kjolseth Dorthe , Fingar Victor , Wieman Jeffrey , Kamler Markus , Tobin Gordon R. , Bond Sheldon , Barker John H.
Published: September 2002

We investigated the acute effects of topical ketanserin, a 5‐HT2 (serotonin) receptor blocker, on wound epithelialization and vascularization with the use of the hairless mouse ear model. Varying concentrations of Ketanserin (0%, 0.2%, 2.0%, 20% weight/volume) were administered to standardized full‐thickness skin wounds on the dorsum of the hairless mouse ear immediately after surgery and daily thereafter. With the use of video microscopy and computer‐assisted planimetry, vascularization and epithelialization were traced every third day until the wounds were fully healed. Arteriole diameters at selected sites near the skin wound were measured before wound creation and after wounding. It was concluded that topically administered ketanserin significantly accelerates both the vascular (p < 0.001 at 2% and 20% concentrations) and epithelial (p < 0.001 at 20% concentration) rates of wound healing in full‐thickness nonpathologic skin wounds. Vasodilation of terminal arterioles was not a major response to Ketanserin. Faster epithelialization was possibly due to direct effect of ketanserin on epithelial cells.
Rabbit cornea assay of angiogenesis: methodology and evaluation
Authors: Phillips Gregg D. , Knighton David R.
Published: September 2002

The rabbit cornea angiogenesis assay has been used extensively to determine the capacity of cells, tissues, growth factors, and a variety of other compounds to stimulate the formation of capillaries. Improper use of the assay coupled with lack of thorough evaluation has generated disparate, perplexing, and even erroneous results. The objective of this article is to review the corneal angiogenesis assay, paying close attention to specific techniques, modes of evaluation, and considerations that investigators need to make before drawing any conclusions.
Differential expression of platelet‐derived growth factor receptors in porcine fibroblasts cultured from skin and granulation tissue
Authors: Ågren Magnus S. , Haisa Minoru , Grotendorst Gary R.
Published: September 2002

This study investigated the biological response of fibroblasts cultured from uninjured skin and granulation tissue from different stages of healing wounds to the three isoforms of platelet‐derived growth factor. Fibroblasts were derived by explant culture from the skin or the granulation tissue that formed within open mesh nylon Schilling‐Hunt chambers (postoperative days 10, 20, 30, and 50) which had been implanted subcutaneously in the backs of domestic pigs. Cells were cultured under identical conditions in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium containing 10% fetal calf serum. Mitogenic activity was measured with 3H‐thymidine incorporation into DNA. Fibroblasts from normal skin responded equally well to all of the platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms in the mitogenic assays. All of the wound fibroblasts exhibited a decreased response to platelet‐derived growth factor compared with those from skin. Granulation tissue fibroblasts responded to platelet‐derived growth factor BB, less to platelet‐derived growth factor AB, and poorly to platelet‐derived growth factor AA. These results correlated with a significantly decreased growth rate of fibroblasts in culture from both 30‐ and 50‐day postsurgical wound tissue compared with normal skin. Western blot studies of cell membrane extracts showed that wound fibroblasts contained less than 20% as many platelet‐derived growth factor‐α receptors as found in fibroblasts cultured from normal skin. No significant difference in the amount of platelet‐derived growth factor‐β receptor was detected. The decreases in platelet‐derived growth factor‐α receptors are sufficient to account for the diminished response of the wound fibroblasts to all platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms and the differential loss of responsiveness to platelet‐derived growth factor AA. These results show that fibroblasts derived from granulation tissue of pig skin wounds exhibit a decreased growth response to platelet‐derived growth factor and a decreased growth rate in culture media as compared with fibroblasts derived from uninjured skin. How these differences may relate to the physiologic characteristics of normal and healing‐impaired wounds is considered.
Assessing wound severity with color and infrared imaging of reactive hyperemia
Authors: Hansen Gary L. , Sparrow Ephraim M. , Kommamuri Narasimharao , Iaizzo Paul A.
Published: September 2002

This study examined the use of cutaneous reactive hyperemia as a means for noninvasive assessment of wound severity of newly formed temperature‐modulated pressure injuries in a porcine model. Two methods to quantify the extent of the reactive hyperemic reflex were developed. First, color image analysis was used to measure the hue of injured tissue. The specific hue of the skin surface of the wounded site was found to provide an indication of the severity of the wounds. Second, infrared imaging, coupled with computer image processing, was used to detect differences in skin temperature. The relative surface temperature of the wounds showed a strong correlation with the presence or absence of deep tissue injury. Both techniques correlated with the severity of the injuries as determined by a histologic assessment of biopsied tissue, but infrared imaging provided the better means to assess wound depth.
Removal of necrotic tissue with an ananain‐based enzyme‐debriding preparation
Authors: Skrabut Eugene M. , Hebda Patricia A. , Samuels Jennifer A. , Richards Susan M. , Edmunds Tim , Cunneen Michele F. , Vaccaro Charles A. , McPherson John M.
Published: September 2002

An enzymatic debriding preparation was formulated with purified enzyme derived from a crude pineapple stem extract. The primary component of this preparation was the sulfhydryl protease ananain which represented ≥85% of the proteolytic activity. The remaining proteolytic activity in the preparation was contributed by a co‐purifying homologous cysteine protease comosain. Taken together these two proteases provided a protein purity of greater than 95% as judged by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. This ananain‐based enzyme preparation exhibited both gelatinolytic and fibrinolytic activity in vitro. Ananain‐based enzyme preparation was formulated in a hydrophilic cream vehicle at concentrations ranging from 115 to 260 U/gm vehicle. Ananain‐based enzyme preparation formulated in this fashion is referred to as Vianain debriding agent. Vianain was applied to partial‐thickness cutaneous burn wounds produced in the skin of domestic pigs. A maximum of two 4‐hour applications of Vianain provided complete debridement of eschar from the partial‐thickness burn wounds as judged by light and electron microscopic analyses of biopsy specimens harvested before and after debridement. Wounds debrided with Vianain exhibited more rapid reepithelialization as compared with wounds that were not debrided. Wounds on pigs that were hyperimmunized to ananain‐based enzyme preparation before burning and debridement with Vianain exhibited a similar enhancement in reepithelialization as compared with wounds treated with vehicle alone. The capacity of Vianain to debride necrotic tissue was also evaluated in a guinea pig ischemic ulcer model. Full‐thickness ischemic lesions were created on the back of guinea pigs. Vianain was applied to the hardened necrotic tissue for 6 hours per day for up to a maximum of 5 days. Complete debridement of these wounds was accomplished within 4 to 5 days. Treatment of ischemic cutaneous ulcerations in this animal model with two commercially available enzyme‐debriding agents provided little or no debridement of the necrotic tissue. In vitro, Vianain treatment of surgically debrided human tissue samples, obtained from patients with burn injury or cutaneous ulcers, showed that the protease preparation was effective in rapidly digesting these necrotic tissues.
Comparisons of wound healing among excisional, laser‐created, and standard thermal burns in porcine wounds of equal depth
Authors: Schaffer Christopher J. , Reinisch Lou , Polis Sharon L. , Stricklin George P. , Nanney Lillian B.
Published: September 2002

The present study was designed to characterize similarities and differences among three wounding modalities in partial‐thickness porcine wounds. We hypothesized that inherent differences, such as endogenous cytokine delivery into excisional wounds or ablation of eschar during laser vaporization, should accelerate the magnitude and sequence of reparative events above the delayed repair that is frequently observed in patients with burns. A constant mid‐dermal depth of injury was created by a Padgett dermatome, a computer‐controlled pulsed CO2 laser, or a temperature‐controlled metal template. Wounds were harvested after 5, 10, or 15 days. After 5 days, significant resurfacing differences were apparent with values of 54% in excisions, 29% in lasers, and 12% in standard thermal burns. Sequences of fibroblastic proliferation were measurably different among the three wound modalities. At day 5 the bromodeoxyuridine labeling index for fibroblasts showed laser wound levels greater than excision wound levels, which were greater than burn wound levels; but by day 10, the proliferative profiles indicated that burn wound levels were greater than excision wound levels, which were greater than laser wound levels. Capillary areas (an assessment of angiogenesis) differed among the three wound types throughout the study. Peak values were observed at day 5 in both excisional and laser injuries; however, standard thermal burns did not peak until day 10. Both the magnitude and sequence of expression of three matrix metalloproteinases (−1, −2, and −9) differed among the three types of injuries. Laser wounds showed the earliest peak in matrix metalloproteinase‐1 expression, whereas burns showed the least expression at day 5. In conclusion, although the three types of wounds undergo similar reparative processes such as reepithelialization, fibroblastic proliferation, angiogenesis, and expression of matrix metalloproteinases, the magnitude and temporal sequences are measurably altered among the three wound modalities. A greater understanding of specific differences within wound environments may lead to more insightful design of interventional wound therapies.
De Quervain’s Disease
Authors: KAY N. R. M.
Published: September 2002

The basic anatomy of the first extensor compartment is presented with a review of the pathology of de Quervain’s stenosing tenovaginitis. The results in 100 medicolegal cases of de Quervain’s disease are analysed and reasons are sought for the poor results. A review of the known factors associated with the causation of de Quervain’s disease is presented with recommendations about the management of this condition.
The Use of a Graft from the Second Extensor Compartment to Reconstruct the A2 Flexor Pulley in the Long Finger
Authors: GABL M. , REINHART C. , LUTZ M. , BODNER G. , ANGERMANN P. , PECHLANER S.
Published: September 2002

A 10 mm wide ring graft from the second extensor compartment with periosteum from the floor of the sheath was used to correct bowstringing in six patients who sustained an isolated rupture of the A2 pulley. It was attached to the lateral rims of the sheath. Periosteum was used for additional graft fixation. Bowstringing was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound preoperatively and 19.5 months after surgery. It was corrected in five patients and improved in one. Pain was reduced from 35 to 7 points on a visual analogue scale. Digital circumference decreased from 76 to 71 mm. Flexion at the PIP joint increased from 88° to 116°. Pinch grip improved from 28 to 56 N.
Functional Scoring System for Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy
Authors: BASHEER H. , ZELIC V. , RABIA F.
Published: September 2002

We suggest a new scoring system that measures the upper limb function both as a unit and in separate parts. Our system was designed to study the recovery in patients with obstetric brachial plexus palsy (OBPP). It measures active limb movements and compares them with the normal side to obtain a ratio, which is then converted to a score. Fifty-two patients with OBPP were studied with a follow-up of 2 years. The progress of the patients was monitored using the system. Thirty-seven patients (71%) achieved very good recovery, eight patients (15%) achieved a good score, and five patients (10%) achieved a poor score. Most of the recovery occurred before the age of 6 months.
Injuries to the Hand from Dog Bites
Authors: GRANT I. , BELCHER H. J. C. R.
Published: September 2002

A review of dog bite injuries referred to one surgeon over a 12 month period demonstrated a significant association between a delay in referral and a prolonged period of subsequent in-patient treatment. Two patients sustained injuries when delivering material through a letter-box.
Classification of Congenital Anomalies of the Upper Limb
Authors: LUIJSTERBURG A. J. M. , van HUIZUM M. A. , IMPELMANS B. E. , HOOGEVEEN E. , VERMEIJ-KEERS C. , HOVIUS S. E. R.
Published: September 2002

Six hundred and ninety-four patients with 993 anomalies of the upper limbs were classified according to the classification of Swanson et al. (1983) . The data from these patients were compared with previous studies, and similar discrepancies were found. One explanation for these discrepancies is a lack of uniformity in the classification of Swanson et al., which may be caused by out-dated knowledge of the pathogenesis of congenital limb anomalies. Therefore, it seems necessary to describe the anomalies instead of the diagnoses. A descriptive method is being validated in our outpatient department that records all anomalies of the upper limb.
Brain Plasticity and Hand Surgery: an Overview
Authors: LUNDBORG G.
Published: September 2002

The hand is an extension of the brain, and the hand is projected and represented in large areas of the motor and sensory cortex. The brain is a complicated neural network which continuously remodels itself as a result of changes in sensory input. Such synaptic reorganizational changes may be activity-dependent, based on alterations in hand activity and tactile experience, or a result of deafferentiation such as nerve injury or amputation. Inferior recovery of functional sensibility following nerve repair, as well as phantom experiences in virtual, amputated limbs are phenomena reflecting profound cortical reorganizational changes. Surgical procedures on the hand are always accompanied by synaptic reorganizational changes in the brain cortex, and the outcome from many hand surgical procedures is to a large extent dependent on brain plasticity.
A Goniometric Glove for Clinical Hand Assessment
Authors: WILLIAMS N. W. , PENROSE J. M. T. , CADDY C. M. , BARNES E. , HOSE D. R. , HARLEY P.
Published: September 2002

The construction of a goniometric glove is described. Each of the sensors in the glove was calibrated over a custom built metal hand using blocks of known angles as angular references. The digital data output from each sensor of the glove were converted into angular displacements at each joint. The glove was validated for consistency of measurement and accuracy over a custom built metal jig and in the human hand. The accuracy of the glove was found to be within the limits of traditional goniometry. It is proposed that goniometric gloves could be useful in the assessment of hand function.
Relationship between the Self-Administered Boston Questionnaire and Electrophysiological Findings in Follow-Up of Surgically-Treated Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: MONDELLI M. , REALE F. , SICURELLI F. , PADUA L.
Published: September 2002

A prospective study of electrophysiological examination and the Boston self-administered questionnaire (BQ) was carried out in patients with surgically-treated carpal tunnel syndrome. There were 104 hands in 93 patients (13 men and 80 women, mean age 56 years). The BQ was used to assess the severity of symptoms and function, and nerve conduction studies were done before surgical release by short incision at the palm, and at follow-ups 1 and 6 months after surgery. The BQ severity score improved or became normal in 98% of hands. The mean BQ scores and distal sensory and motor conduction velocities in the median nerve showed significant improvement at the 1 month follow-up. Further significant improvement was found at 6 months. There was no relationship between the improvements in BQ scores and the distal conduction in the median nerve. The degree of improvement in sensory and motor distal conduction velocities could be forecast from presurgical values, whereas the degree of improvement in the symptoms and the functional status after release could not be predicted from the presurgical BQ scores.
Effect of the Steindler Procedure on the Median Nerve Branches to the Medial Epicondylar Muscles
Authors: CHANTELOT C. , FEUGAS C. , MIGAUD H. , GUILLEM F. , CHAPNIKOFF D. , FONTAINE C.
Published: September 2002

Usually the median nerve gives off six branches to the muscles arising from the medial epicondyle, which could be tightened during Steindler’s procedure. We studied these branches before and after Steindler’s procedure in 20 fresh cadavers and observed a considerable variation in the origin of the branches. The muscular branches arising from the median nerve did not seem to limit the mobilization of the medial epicondyle when performing Steindler’s transfer. The limitation of the flexion observed after Steindler’s procedure was mainly related to the tension of the transferred forearm flexor muscles. The variability of the origin of the branch to the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle could explain a lesion of this branch when Steindler’s procedure is carried out with Brunelli’s modification. The lateral transfer and the anterior transfer on to the humeral shaft did not influence the limitation of elbow flexion or result in tightness in any nerve branch to the transferred muscles.
Cancer Incidence in Patients Treated Surgically for Dupuytren’s Contracture
Authors: WILBRAND S. , EKBOM A. , GERDIN B.
Published: September 2002

Our aim was to study risk factors for Dupuytren’s contracture (DC) by assessing cancer morbidity in a group of Swedish patients treated surgically for Dupuytren’s contracture. The risk of cancer was determined in 15,212 patients operated on for Dupuytren’s contracture, identified in the nation-wide Swedish Inpatient Register during the period 1965 to 1994 by means of record linkage to the Swedish Cancer Register. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were computed using age-, sex- and period-specific incidence rates derived from the entire Swedish population. The overall relative risk of cancer was increased by 24%. There were significantly increased risks for malignancies related to smoking such as buccal, oesophageal, gastric, lung and pancreatic cancers. Significantly increased risks were present for both prostate and rectal cancer in men and an increase risk for breast cancer in women was noted 1 year or more after surgery for Dupuytren’s contracture. The present study confirms smoking and alcohol abuse as probable risk factors for DC. There are characteristics in patients with DC that alter the risks for other malignancies compared with the general population.
Parosteal Osteosarcoma of the Ring Finger Metacarpal in a Semi-Professional Pianist
Authors: REVELL M. P. , MULLIGAN P. J. , GRIMER R. J.
Published: September 2002

We report treatment of a low grade parosteal osteosarcoma of the ring finger metacarpal in a patient who would not contemplate ray amputation because of her career. Surgery involved excision of the bone, extracorporeal radiation then re-implantation.
Indications and Selection for Digital Amputation and Replantation
Authors: SOUCACOS P. N.
Published: September 2002

Even though replantation surgery has now become a routine procedure, it remains delicate and demanding surgery, requiring adequate training and expertise in microsurgical techniques. Well-defined selection criteria for replantation procedures have evolved over the past few years, including definitive guidelines for thumb, single digit, multiple digit and mid-palm amputations. For more complex cases, other techniques, including transpositional microsurgery and various secondary reconstructive procedures, such as toe-to-hand transfer, are now available. Although replantation procedures have been simplified, a second surgical team can save valuable surgical time by debriding and identifying the vessels in the amputated part, harvesting microvenous grafts, and performing bone fixation or tendon repair among other things, while the chief surgeon focuses on revascularization. Overall, the most significant guideline underlining the philosophy of digital replantation today reflects the aim of not only ensuring the survival of a digit, but its functional use as well. Experience dictates that this can be achieved only if the basic principles and indications of replantation surgery are adhered to.
A New Technique to Salvage Digital Replantation with Compromised Venous Outflow
Authors: AL-QATTAN M. M.
Published: September 2002

The use of an intravenous cannula to salvage digital replantation with compromised venous outflow is described. The advantages of this technique when compared to other methods used to treat “artery only” replantations are discussed.
The Value of Crossed Intrinsic Transfer after Metacarpophalangeal Silastic Arthroplasty: A Comparative Study
Authors: CLARK D. I. , DELANEY R. , STILWELL J. H. , TRAIL I. A. , STANLEY J. K.
Published: September 2002

Seventy three hands in patients with rheumatoid arthritis undergoing primary index to small finger metacarpophalangeal joint replacements were studied retrospectively. In twenty eight hands a crossed intrinsic transfer was performed and in forty five hands it was not. A similar splintage and rehabilitation programme was followed in each group. The two treatment groups had similar preoperative ulnar drift (crossed intrinsic transfer group mean 278, comparative group 298). At a mean follow up of 50 months the crossed intrinsic transfer group had statistically less ulnar drift (crossed intrinsic transfer group mean 68, comparative group mean 148, P=0.01). There were no other significant differences at follow up.
Mechanical Strength of Intramedullary Pinning and Transfragmental Kirschner Wire Fixation for Colles’ Fractures
Authors: SAEKI Y. , HASHIZUME H. , NAGOSHI M. , TANAKA H. , INOUE H.
Published: September 2002

Four methods of distal radius fracture fixation were tested in this experimental biomechanical study of an unstable Colles’ fracture model. Sixty artificial radial bones and seven pairs of cadaveric radii were used. Seven additional pairs of paired cadaveric radial epiphyses were used in separate perforation and cut-out tests. Tests with the artificial bones showed that the rigidity of the four tested fixation methods was comparable, except for proximal intramedullary pinning. The rigidity of the NODE fixation in the cadaveric radii was greater than that of transfragmental pinning. The load at failure was significantly greater for the NODE system than for the Kirschner wire models. Rigidity and failure loads showed a positive correlation with bone mineral density. The current study indicates the NODE system was the strongest of the fixation methods.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Radial Dysplasia
Authors: KIMURA H. , IKUTA Y. , ISHIDA O.
Published: September 2002

We treated three patients for carpal tunnel syndrome which developed more than 10 years after reconstructive surgery for radial dysplasia. All responded to decompressive surgery. The radial carpal bones were hypoplastic in all cases, and in two we measured the carpal tunnel with computed tomography (CT). This showed that the anteroposterior diameter and cross-sectional area of the carpal tunnel were small because of the hypoplasia of the carpal bones. We believe carpal tunnel syndrome occurs with radial dysplasia because of the narrow anteroposterior diameter and small cross-sectional area of the carpal tunnel.
Aesthetic Hand Prosthesis: Gadget or Therapy? Presentation of a New Classification
Authors: PILLET J. , DIDIERJEAN-PILLET A.
Published: September 2002

Aesthetic prostheses must fulfill a functional as well as an aesthetic role. The function of these prostheses may be perceived as an additional passive support, or as an instrument of social function and an aid to the patient. This functional role has been observed in the continued use of these prostheses over several years. We reviewed our experience with prescription, fitting and follow-up care in 2847 patients. Classification of these patients was based on their age, level of amputation (with or without functional pinch) and cause of amputation. Analysis of the data ratifies our indications for prosthesis fitting. The long-term wearing of these aesthetic prostheses confirms their use as therapeutic tools.
Finger Sucking Digital Deformities
Authors: SRINIVASAN J. , HUTCHINSON J. W. , BURKE F. D.
Published: September 2002

We report our experience with severe digital deformities caused by prolonged finger sucking. Our analysis of nine patients demonstrated that the deformity was mainly located in the proximal and middle phalanges of the affected digit(s). We have reviewed the literature, enumerated the common patterns of “finger sucking” and explained the resulting deformities. Corrective osteotomy, preferably at the metacarpal base level, is required in severe deformities.
Comparative Study of “Staples Versus Sutures” in Skin Closure Following Dupuytren’s Surgery
Authors: BHATIA R. , BLACKSHAW G. , BARR V. , SAVAGE R
Published: September 2002

This prospective, randomized controlled trial assessed the use of staples for closure of the palmar skin following Dupuytren’s surgery. Although staples were significantly quicker to insert than sutures, patients experienced significantly more pain on removal of staples. There was no difference in the cosmetic appearance of the wound in the two groups. We recommend use of staples for palmar wound closure following long procedures.
Adaptations of Central Amazon Tree Species to Prolonged Flooding: Root Morphology and Leaf Longevity
Authors: De Simone O. , Müller E. , Junk W. J. , Schmidt W.
Published: September 2002

Abstract: Várzeas are species‐rich forest communities of the Central Amazon floodplains, inhabited by highly adapted tree species that can withstand long flooding periods. The leaf shedding behaviour and morphological traits that may contribute to adaptation to low oxygen levels were studied at the Ilha de Marchantaria on the lower Solimoes‐Amazonas river, Brazil, and in greenhouse experiments with cuttings of six tree species typical of the Amazon floodplain. Comparison of deciduousness in situ revealed that four of the species under investigation, Salix martiana, Tabernaemontana juruana, Laetia corymbulosa and Pouteria glomerata, are able to maintain their leaf system during the aquatic period. Adventitious roots were formed by S. martiana and T. juruana, but anatomical characteristics differed between the species. Whereas S. martiana developed lysigenous aerenchyma in its roots during aerobic and anaerobic growth, only small intercellular spaces of schizogenous origin were formed in the root cortex of T. juruana. Similar to the latter species, such spaces were constitutively formed in the deciduous species Crateva benthamiand Vitex cymosa. Suberin deposits were observed in tangential and radial cell walls of the hypodermis of roots from T. juruana, L. corymbulosa and P. glomerata. Suberin deposits were less pronounced in roots of S. martiana and absent in V. cymosaand C. benthami. The data show that different, almost contrasting, survival mechanisms have evolved in roots of plants with similar life forms in the same habitat. The results further suggest that the morphological traits of the investigated trees are causally linked with the in situ leaf shedding behaviour.
Evolutionary Aspects of MADS‐box Genes in the Eusporangiate Fern Ophioglossum
Authors: Münster T. , Faigl W. , Saedler H. , Theiβen G.
Published: September 2002

Abstract: The MIKC‐type MADS‐box genes of seed plants encode transcription factors which are typically expressed in a tissue‐ or organ‐specific way. In contrast, the MIKC genes of the fern Ceratopteris isolated so far, show fairly ubiquitous expression in both reproductive and non‐reproductive organs. In order to determine whether this is a feature which is unique to a lineage of highly derived, leptosporangiate ferns, we initiated a characterization of the family of MIKC‐type MADS‐box genes of the eusporangiate “fern”Ophioglossum. Within the large clade of ferns and their allies, Ophioglossum is only very distantly related to Ceratopteris. cDNAs were isolated which represent at least four different Ophioglossum MIKC‐type genes, termed OPM1, OPM3 ‐ OPM5. Hybridization of genomic DNA gel blots, however, revealed that appreciably more MADS‐box genes are present in the Ophioglossum genome. As for the MIKC‐type genes from Ceratopteris, phylogeny reconstructions did not reveal orthology to seed plant genes for any of these. For OPM1 and OPM5, however, a relatively close relationship to some Ceratopteris genes was moderately supported. Semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR revealed that OPM1, OPM3 and OPM5 are expressed in both the vegetative (trophophore) and the reproductive (sporophore) part of the Ophioglossum leaf. In contrast, expression of OPM4 is restricted to the sporophore, suggesting a specific role in generative development for that gene. These findings suggest that relatively ubiquitous expression is a typical, but not absolute, feature of MIKC‐type MADS‐box genes from ferns and their allies. Taken together, the data outlined here corroborate the view that the phylogeny of MIKC‐type MADS‐box genes took different pathways in ferns and their allies on the one hand, and seed plants on the other hand, involving numerous independent gene duplications in both lineages, and distinct differences in the ubiquity of the expression patterns and, by inference, function. The implications of these findings for a better understanding of the evolution of vascular plants are discussed.
Symmetry breaking and multiplicity of states in small aspect ratio Taylor–Couette flow
Authors: Mullin T. , Toya Y. , Tavener S. J.
Published: September 2002

We report the results of an experimental and numerical study of the bifurcation structure of steady cellular states in small aspect ratio Taylor–Couette flows. In particular we focus on Z2 symmetry-breaking bifurcations where asymmetric states which break the mid-plane symmetry arise. We find good quantitative agreement between numerical and experimental results for the bifurcation set. The surprising new observation we make is that the symmetry-breaking bifurcation sequences coalesce in a self-consistent way as the aspect ratio is reduced so that only symmetric steady flows exist for very short cylinders. The implications of this for the onset of disordered motion are discussed.
Effect of free rotation on the motion of a solid sphere in linear shear flow at moderate Re
Authors: Bagchi P. , Balachandar S.
Published: September 2002

The effect of free rotation on the drag and lift forces on a solid sphere in unbounded linear shear flow is investigated. The sphere Reynolds number, Re=|ur|d/ν, is in the range 0.5–200, where ur is the slip velocity. Direct numerical simulations of three-dimensional flow past an isolated sphere are performed using spectral methods. The sphere is allowed to rotate and translate freely in the shear flow in response to the hydrodynamic forces and torque acting on it. The effect of free rotation is studied in a systematic way by considering three sets of simulations. In the first set of simulations, we study how fast a pure rotational or translational motion of the sphere approaches steady state. The “history” effect of rotational and translational motions are compared. Results at high Re are found to be significantly different from the analytical prediction based on low Re theory. In steady simulations, the sphere is allowed to rotate in a torque-free condition. The torque-free rotation rate and the drag and lift forces under such a condition are reported. Comparisons are drawn with the forces on a nonrotating sphere. The effect of rotation is observed to be high in the range 5≲Re≲100. The total lift force is shown to be the sum of the lift force on a nonrotating sphere in shear flow and the lift force on a sphere that is forced to spin at the torque-free rotation rate in a uniform stream (Magnus effect). Finally, we consider the effect of combined free rotation and translation. It is observed that under such combined motion, the sphere achieves translational equilibrium with the local fluid much earlier than it can achieve the zero torque state. The sphere rotates at a rate much lower than the torque-free rotation rate. Free rotation is shown to have a negligible effect on the unsteady drag and lift forces.
Particle-in-cell simulation of the pulsed planar expansion of a fully ionized plasma off a surface
Authors: Nedelea Tudor , Urbassek Herbert M.
Published: September 2002

Using particle-in-cell computer simulation, the expansion of a plasma formed by isothermal evaporation of ions and electrons off a planar wall into a vacuum is investigated. The hydrodynamical and electrical characteristics of the ion and electron expansion flow during and after the emission phase are analyzed. Ion acceleration is investigated in detail. While during the emission phase a considerable part of the electron energy is stored in thermal motion, and cannot be converted to ion energy, this conversion happens almost completely in the post-emission phase. As a result, the velocity distribution of ions is increased at large velocities by several orders of magnitude.
Two-dimensional particle simulation of the current flow to a flush-mounted Langmuir probe in a strong oblique magnetic field
Authors: Bergmann A.
Published: September 2002

The current flow to flat Langmuir probes mounted flush into divertor target plates or limiter in a tokamak is studied with particle-in-cell simulations. The simulation model is two-dimensional in real space and three-dimensional in velocity space resolving the gyration of electrons and ions. The following two effects are studied: (i) The lack of saturation of the ion current at grazing incidence of the magnetic field. Simulations are performed with realistic values of the dimensionless parameters (ratios between probe size, gyroradius and Debye length) and the grazing angle of the magnetic field. (ii) The influence of the self-consistent E×B drift. A contribution to the ion current nonsaturation (at negative bias) is found as well as a reduction of the electron current (at positive bias).
Band-selective homonuclear dipolar recoupling in rotating solids
Authors: Hohwy M. , Rienstra C. M. , Griffin R. G.
Published: September 2002

In this paper, we introduce approaches to band-selective homonuclear dipolar recoupling with the SPC-5 sequence described previously [Hohwy et al., J. Chem. Phys. 110, 7983 (1999)]. The technique, denoted SPC-53, restores the homonuclear dipolar coupling during magic angle spinning (MAS) and introduces a fifth-order residual offset term of controllable magnitude. The fifth order term truncates the dipolar coupling to spins that fall outside the operational bandwidth of the experiment. It is shown with high-order average Hamiltonian theory, multiple-spin simulations, and experiments, that polarization within a spin cluster can be propagated to destination spins with improved efficiency using this approach. Further, we show that a spin system subjected to band-selective recoupling obeys the equation of motion of the reduced spin cluster and that modeling of the polarization transfer process is simplified. Thus, in the important case of peptides and proteins, all of the backbone and side-chain carbonyl spins as well as aromatic spins can be neglected, leading to enhanced transfer efficiency among Cα, Cβ, Cγ, etc. Experimental spectra of [U–13C,15N]-threonine and formyl-[U–13C,15N]-Met-Leu-Phe-OH, indicate that the backbone carbonyl and sidechain aromatic spins can be neglected in the polarization transfer equations. This leads to enhanced transfer efficiencies of up to a factor of ∼2.
Effect of low magnetic shear induced by lower hybrid current drive on high performance internal transport barriers in the Joint European Torus (JET)
Authors: Castaldo C. , Cesario R. , Cardinali A. , Litaudon X. , Mailloux J. , Parail V. , Tala T. , Crisanti F. , Gormezano C. , Panaccione L. , Santini F. , Smeulders P. , Tuccillo A. A. ,   Contributors to the EFDA-JET workprogramme
Published: September 2002

A low/negative magnetic shear profile is maintained in the Joint European Torus in a plasma target with plasma current of 2.4 MA using 2.2 MW of lower hybrid (LH) power combined with neutral beam injection and ion cyclotron radiofrequency heating. In this scenario, an internal transport barrier (ITB) with time duration up to about 4 s is produced. The fraction of LH driven current is about 25% the total plasma current. During LH power application, the layer with reversed shear q-profile can be maintained in a suitable radial position to inhibit the onset of turbulence, which might otherwise drive the ITB to collapse. LH power could be used as a tool to drive moderate amounts of noninductive off-axis current and sustain high performance ITBs at high plasma current.
Effects of stress annealing in nitrogen on the index of refraction of silicon dioxide layers in metal–oxide–semiconductor devices
Authors: Massoud Hisham Z. , Przewlocki Henryk M.
Published: September 2002

In this article, we report the results of a study of the effects of high-temperature stress annealing in nitrogen on the index of refraction of SiO2 layers in metal/oxide/semiconductor (MOS) devices. In this study, we have experimentally characterized the dependence of mechanical stress in the Si–SiO2 system on the oxidation and annealing conditions and correlated such properties with the dependence of the index of refraction on processing conditions and oxide thickness. We consider the contributions of the thermal-relaxation and nitrogen-incorporation processes in determining changes in the index of refraction with annealing time. This description is consistent with other annealing studies carried out in argon where only the thermal-relaxation process is present. Correlations of these experimental observations with the electrical properties of the same MOS devices are presented in a companion article.
High resolution temperature and density profiles during the energy quench of density limit disruptions in Rijnhuizen tokamak project
Authors: Salzedas F. , Hokin S. , Schüller F. C. , Oomens A. A. M. ,   RTP Team
Published: September 2002

Measurements of the electron temperature, Te, and density, ne, during the energy quench of a major disruption showed that the onset of Te erosion in the neighborhood of the m/n=2/1 O point at the low field side (LFS) accelerates the well-known m/n=1/1 erosion of the core temperature. During this phase Te(r) is only partially flat in the region between the q=2 and the q=1 surfaces and ne(r) decreases in the core and increases inside the m/n=2/1 island. Immediately after the flattening of Te(r) a large peak in Te and to a lesser extent in ne has been observed. This peak is radially localized at the q=2 radius at the LFS, is very short lived and is poloidally asymmetric. Te profiles measured by the heterodyne radiometer and the Thomson scattering agree very well up to the time Te(r) flattens but afterwards can be a factor of two different.
Structural and electronic properties of PbTiO3, PbZrO3, and PbZr0.5Ti0.5O3: First-principles density-functional studies
Authors: Rodriguez J. A. , Etxeberria A. , González L. , Maiti A.
Published: September 2002

Perovskites of the PbZr1−xTixO3 type are among the most important ferroelectric materials and highly active catalysts. The structural and electronic properties of PbTiO3, PbZrO3, and PbZr0.5Ti0.5O3 were examined using first-principles density-functional (DF) calculations with the local-density-approximation (LDA) or the generalized-gradient approximation (GGA, Perdew–Wang and Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhoff functionals). A series of crystal structures were considered for each compound. In several cases, the structural parameters predicted by the GGA functionals were clearly in better agreement with experimental results than the LDA-predicted values, but in qualitative terms the LDA and GGA approaches always predicted similar trends for crystal geometries and differences in thermochemical stability. DF calculations at the LDA level could underestimate the ferroelectric character of PbTiO3 and PbZr1−xTixO3. In the perovskites, the most stable structures belong to tetragonal (PbTiO3), orthorhombic (PbZrO3), and monoclinic (PbZr0.5Ti0.5O3) space groups. The positions of the Zr and Ti cations in the tetragonal and monoclinic phases of PbZr0.5Ti0.5O3 were determined. The calculated structural parameters give theoretical x-ray diffraction patterns that reproduce well experimental data. In general, Zr is much more rigid than Ti for displacements along the [001] direction in the cubic, tetragonal and monoclinic phases of PbZr1−xTixO3 compounds. The lead titanates/zirconates exhibit very strong metal↔oxygen↔metal interactions that drastically modify the electron density on the metal cations with respect to TiO2, ZrO2, and PbO. A similar phenomenon is observed in a series of ABO3 perovskites (A=Ca,Sr,Li,K,Na; B=Ti,Zr,Nb), and it is an important factor to consider when mixing AO and BO2 oxides for catalytic applications.
An experimental investigation of the planar turbulent wake in constant pressure gradient
Authors: Liu Xiaofeng , Thomas Flint O. , Nelson Robert C.
Published: September 2002

This paper describes an experimental investigation into the development of a planar turbulent wake under constant adverse and favorable pressure gradient conditions. The focus of the study is on the near-wake due to its relevance to high-lift systems for commercial transport aircraft. The wake is generated by a flat splitter plate with tapered trailing edge. The pressure gradients are imposed as the wake passes through a wind tunnel diffuser test section with fully adjustable top and bottom wall contours. The streamwise pressure gradients imposed on the wake flow field are held constant in each case. The wake initial conditions are maintained identical upstream of the location where the pressure gradient is first imposed. The use of constant pressure gradients, coupled with identical initial conditions, facilitates isolation of the effect of streamwise pressure gradients on the near-field evolution of the wake and provides a clean test case for computational models. In this paper we focus on characterizing the mean flow widening, streamwise velocity defect variation, and the streamwise evolution of turbulence statistics for both favorable and adverse streamwise pressure gradients. The imposed pressure gradients are shown to have a very significant effect on both the mean and turbulent flow quantities.