bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between the magnetic phase transition and the electric properties in substituted spinels Zn1−xCuxCr2Se4
Authors: Tokiwa N. , Hidaka M.
Published: May 2004

The electric properties of normal‐type spinels Zn1−xCuxCr2Se4 have been studied by measuring the electric resistivity from 5 K to 300 K. It is found that the substituted compounds with x = 0.02 and 0.15 are semiconductors down to 5 K, while ones with x ≥ 0.30 are metals with high conductivity. However, it is also found that the metallic properties of the latter are characterized by new electric modulations in a low‐temperature region. Zn1−xCuxCr2Se4 with x = 0.3 and 0.5 show the electric phase transition from semiconductor to metal at about 60 K and 25 K, respectively. The metallic compounds with x = 0.75 and 1.0 show the kink of the resistivity at about 60 K with increasing temperature. The highly conductive Zn0.4Cu0.6Cr2Se4 slightly shows the weak semiconducting behavior in the region from 5 K to 280 K. It is considered for the substituted system Zn1−xCuxCr2Se4 with x < 0.75 that, only in the semiconducting phase (0.0 < x < 0.75) and the insulating phase (x = 0.0), there are partially localized Cr3+ spins showing the superexchange interaction between the Cr3+ and Cr3+ spins in the antiferromagnetic phase below about 22 K to 28 K. The antiferromagnetic to ferromagnetic phase transitions occurring at 24 K to 28 K in Zn1−xCuxCr2Se4 with 0.15 ≤ x < 0.75 are induced by the disappearance of the superexchange interaction between localized Cr3+ and Cr3+ spins, and by the predominance of the double‐exchange interaction between Cr3+ spin and conductive Cr4+ spin polaron in the Se2− valence band. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Exact solutions for the position‐dependent effective mass Schrödinger equation using the analogy with a PT‐symmetric invariant anharmonic potential
Authors: Moayedi S. K. , Solimannejad M. , Jalbout Abraham F.
Published: May 2004

The aim of the present study is to obtain exact solutions for the one‐dimensional position‐dependent effective mass Schrödinger equation. After the change of wave function on position‐dependent effective mass Schrödinger equation and comparison between the resulted equation with the PT‐symmetric invariant anharmonic potential, three distinct classes of exact solutions are obtained for the Schrödinger equation. As an illustrative example for a Gaussian form of m(x), energy spectrum, potential energy function and wave function are obtained explicitly. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
Trial introduction of a complex potential function for perturbation that causes quantum mechanical transition in a one‐dimensional harmonic oscillator
Authors: Yamada Mitsuru
Published: May 2004

Some results of computer simulation of the behavior of a one‐dimensional quantum mechanical oscillator are reported in this article. This harmonic oscillator comprises a particle trapped within a hyperbolic potential V(x) = x2. Further, a perturbation potential function V′(x, t) was superposed upon the hyperbolic potential in order to induce a quantum mechanical transition. This perturbation function V′(x, t) is a function of both of space and time variables, and is set to represent a wave packet that is enveloped by a Gaussian bell‐shaped curve. A wave that probably has an appropriate wave number and angular frequency was inputted into the expression for the wave packet. In the initial phase, while the harmonic oscillator was allowed to oscillate almost freely, the wave packet was allowed to approach the harmonic oscillator. In the middle phase, the wave packet passes through the harmonic oscillator, affecting the shape of the quantum mechanical wave that represents the physical state of the system. In the last phase, when the wave packet left the system of the harmonic oscillator, the system settled onto an energetically stable state. The main objective of the simulation was to simulate the instance of a quantum mechanical transition from one eigenstate to another. After several trials, it was found that the perturbation function consisting of a complex function was, at least superficially, able to cause one desired transition, that is, a transition from one eigenstate to another eigenstate. By using such a complex perturbation function, a transition from the first excited state to the ground state was observed to occur. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
Climate change, land use change and runoff prediction in the Rhine–Meuse basins
Authors: Pfister Laurent , Kwadijk Jaap , Musy André , Bronstert Axel , Hoffmann Lucien
Published: May 2004

As a consequence of increasing winter rainfall totals and intensities over the second half of the 20th century, signs of increased flooding probability in many areas of the Rhine and Meuse basins have been documented. These changes affecting rainfall characteristics are most evidently due to an increase in westerly atmospheric circulation types. Land use changes, particularly urbanization, can have significant local effects in small basins (headwaters) with respect to flooding, especially during heavy local rainstorms, but no evidence exists that land use change has had significant effects on peak flows in the rivers Rhine and Meuse.

For the 21st century, most global circulation models suggest higher winter rainfall totals. Most hydrological simulations of the Rhine–Meuse river basins suggest an increased flooding probability, with a progressive shift of the Rhine from a ‘rain‐fed/meltwater’ river into a mainly ‘rain‐fed’ river. A very limited effect of changes in land use on the discharge regime seems to exist for the main branches of the Meuse and Rhine rivers. For mesoscale basins, future changes in peak flows depend on the changes in the variability of extreme precipitations in combination with land use changes. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implementation of flood risk management measures into spatial plans and policies
Authors: Böhm Hans Reiner , Haupter Birgit , Heiland Peter , Dapp Klaus
Published: May 2004

Floods and risk in river basins can only effectively be reduced if, in addition to technical measures, spatial planning regulates land use in flood‐prone areas. The development of new settlements and industry has to be kept out of the main risk zones. Furthermore detention areas as well as room for river functions must be safeguarded in a long‐term perspective. To make the requirements of flood risk management applicable for regional planning approaches, the Rhine basin is divided into eight different ‘action areas’, according to the following criteria: (1) prevailing flood danger, (2) geophysical situation and (3) possible effects of retention measures. Groups of required actions are assigned to each action area. By this means the framework for regional flood risk management in the Rhine basin is determined.

In this framework the improved application of regulative instruments is recommended. Based on obligatory hazard maps graded for different planning levels, regional and local planning activities have to regulate the land use in flood‐prone and detention areas. A two‐zone concept is recommended. Priority zones shall prevent the rise of vulnerability in high risk zones. Reserve zones deliver restrictions and demands on precautionary measures concerning the constructions. The comparison of different planning systems in countries throughout the Rhine basin shows many similarities but also fundamental differences in the planning instruments and their application. In the framework of an interregional co‐operation structure (‘flood management alliance’) it is recommended that the approaches are harmonized in terms of a common basic methodology. Additionally, financial compensation and burden sharing between downstream and upstream regions have to support the implementation of the strategies into spatial plans and policies. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perspectives on flood management in the Rhine and Meuse rivers
Authors: Middelkoop Hans , Van Asselt Marjolein B. A. , Van' T Klooster Susan A. , Van Deursen Willem P. A. , Kwadijk Jaap C. J. , Buiteveld Hendrik
Published: May 2004

Flood management of the Rhine and Meuse is surrounded by major uncertainties. The central question is then: given the uncertainties, what is the best management strategy? Moreover, flood management cannot be considered independently from other river functions such as nature, agriculture, inland navigation and landscape values. This raises the need for integrated scenarios that consider possible futures in a coherent and consistent way. In the present project a scenario study was carried out in which physical modelling has been combined with socio‐cultural theory. The focus of the study was on flood risk management. Existing climate, land use and socio‐economic scenarios, as well as water management strategies have been structured using the Perspectives method. This resulted in integrated scenarios for water management, each representing a different view of the future, together with the corresponding water management style. These were put in a scenario matrix with combinations of world views and management styles, where these both match and mis‐match. Using a suite of existing modelling tools the implications of each scenario for the water systems were evaluated. Finally, a comparison of different water management styles under different possible futures was made, showing the risk, cost and benefits of different strategies. The scenario analyses demonstrate that–at the scale of the entire Rhine basin–the influence of climate change on extreme floods is much stronger than the influence of land use changes. Flood risk management in the lower river deltas should not fully rely on flood mitigation measures in the upstream basin. It also becomes clear that no flood risk management strategy is superior in all respects and in all circumstances and that safety versus societal costs is really a policy dilemma: win–win situations cannot always be attained. Under changing climate conditions, the present‐day type of management in the lower river reaches runs the risk of becoming an expensive attempt to fully control flood risk problems, while trying to avoid real choices, without actually solving the problems in a long‐term view. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of different amounts of clomiphene citrate on follicle‐stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and estradiol levels and on the number and maturation of follicles
Authors: Chryssikopoulos A. , Antoniou A. , Kassanos D. , Vazoura E.
Published: May 2004

Sixty‐eight anovulatory women were divided into three groups according to the administered doses of clomiphene citrate (CC) (A 250 mg, B 500 mg, C 750 mg). Daily follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and estradiol (E2) measurements were performed. Follicular maturation was monitored by ultrasound. In the high‐CC dose group, a statistically significant FSH rise was noted. As a result, earlier selection of the dominant follicle (DF), faster increase in the DF diameter and increased E2 production was found.
Sonographic detection of an asymptomatic rupture of the uterus due to necrosis during the third trimester
Authors: Osmers R. , Ulbrich R. , Schauer A. , Kuhn W.
Published: May 2004

This is a report on the first sonographic detection of a silent rupture of the uterus in the 33rd week of pregnancy of a 35‐year‐old patient. On the basis of the clear sonographic picture immediate cesarian section was (considered) indicated in spite of lack of clinical symptoms. The intraoperative situs confirmed the sonographic diagnosis of a ruptured uterus related to an old cesarian section, combined with partial necrosis of the lower uterine segment.
Effect of immunopotentialization on rate of vaginal smear normalization according to appearance of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Klimek R. , Dembowska J. , Bałajewicz M. , Plechanow J.
Published: May 2004

Sixty one women (age range 20–35 years) treated by Gynatren‐immunopotentialization (three vaccinations every second week) were divided into two groups: group I with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and group II without CIN. Four weeks of therapy resulted in normalization of the vaginal flora and cervical milieu as well as in disappearance of CIN in 54% of cases stated cytologically. These findings confirmed our previous observations. Moreover, it was stated that process of regression of inflammation, metaplasia as well as normalization of vaginal flora is less apparent in women with CIN.
Progesterone in saliva as an index of ovarian function
Authors: Adekunle A.O. , Kim J.B. , Collins W.P. , Whitehead M.I.
Published: May 2004

Progesterone was assayed in samples of saliva collected daily throughout the menstrual cycle and correlated with corresponding daily concentrations of pregnanediol‐3α‐glucuronide in early morning urine. Ovarian follicular growth was monitored on a daily basis with a real‐time sector scanner. The concentrations of salivary progesterone shows a specific pattern with a mid‐cycle rise and a peak in the luteal phase. The mean concentration in the follicular phase, as determined, was 40.4 pmol/l (range 15.3–110.7 pmol/l). It increased in the peri‐ovulatory period to a peak of 201.1 pmol/l (range 46.4–289.8 pmol/l) 6 days following follicular rupture.
Management of human papilloma virus vulvo‐perineal infection with systemic β‐interferon and thymostimulin in HIV‐positive patients
Authors: Frega A. , di Renzi F. , Stentella P. , Pachi A.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of a combined therapy based on β‐interferon and thymostimulin in HIV‐seropositive women with florid vulvoperineal condylomatosis. METHODS: Nineteen HIV‐seropositive women affected by HPV florid vulvoperineal infection were studied. Their ages ranged from 19 to 32 years (mean = 26); all were smokers; 11 (57.89%) were intravenous drug users with a mean period of drug addiction of 5 years. No patient was on AZT therapy. All patients underwent a combined medical therapy based on β‐interferon administration with doses of 3 000 000 IU i.m. daily for 7 days and subsequently on alternate days for 2 weeks associated with the administration of 70 mg i.m. of thymostimulin per day on alternate days for 30 days. RESULTS: Seven (36.84%) patients showed complete recovery at the end of follow‐up; 5 (26.31%) patients showed partial recovery and 7 (36.84%) did not respond to therapy. CONCLUSION: A pro‐host immunotherapy seems to be indicated in patients affected by immunodeficiency syndrome.
Immune dysfunction in patients with unexplained repeated abortions
Authors: Konidaris S. , Papadias K. , Gregoriou O. , Gargaropoulos A. , Dalamaga A. , Mantzavinos T.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: To examine the immunological profiles by antiphospholipid antibodies IgG, IgM, IgA immunoglobulins ACA, as well as C3, C4 complement component levels. METHODS: A group of 44 women with a history of three or more consecutive pregnancy losses was compared with 34 normal women. RESULTS: Our results showed lower levels of IgG immunoglobulins for the patient group (P < 0.001) while the C3, C4 complement component levels remained unaltered. Anticardiolipin antibodies were positive in ten patients for IgG or IgM isotypes or for both presenting a prevalence of 22.7% while none of the control subjects had ACA positive titers. The lupus anticoagulant was not detected in either group. Ten patients (22.7%) presented positive autoantibody tests as compared with only 3 (8.8%) of the control group. No statistical differences were found between the two groups when the frequency of each autoantibody's positive tests were examined separately. CONCLUSIONS: An inconsistent immune derangement seems to be present in recurrent aborters with the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies as the stronger representative marker of immune alteration.
Gynecologic tumors and symptoms in childhood and adolescence; 10‐years' experience
Authors: Imai A. , Furui T. , Tamaya T.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: The advancement of diagnostic imaging evaluations and the earlier occurrence of secondary sexual development prompted us to review our recent experience with genital tract tumors in children. METHODS: We analyzed data for 1938 patients aged less than 18 years who were referred to Gifu University School of Medicine‐affiliated Hospitals for the years 1984 through 1993. RESULTS: Of the patients, 145 underwent surgical treatment. Vaginal tumor was seen in 5 patients; 1 endodermal sinus tumor, 1 sarcoma botryoides and 3 Gartner's duct cysts. Two patients with malignant tumor presented only with bloody vaginal discharge; recurrent abdominal pain due to vaginal obstruction was noted in 1 patient with the cyst. Ten had benign tumors in the vulva, presenting with a genital mass. Of 114 ovarian tumors, 3 were diagnosed by antenatal ultrasonographic examinations. Fifty‐five had germ cell tumors, 33 had epithelial tumors, and 18 had stromal tumors. The most common symptom was abdominal pain and approximately one‐third of girls who complained of abdominal pain had an ovarian tumor. Precocious puberty was noted in 4 girls with stromal tumor. Two of the 23 malignant tumors developed in the vagina and the others originated in the ovary. In 19 patients unilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy or local excision was done in an attempt for reproductive organ conservation; 4 cases of advanced stage disease were treated with hysterectomy and/or bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. Only 3 of the 23 patients with malignant tumor died within 4 years and others are free from disease. CONCLUSIONS: Genital symptoms, even common, alert us to the posibility of a genital tract tumor. The prompt and precise detection of either benign or malignant tumors in children may lead to cure and preservation of fertility with conservative surgery.
Sonohysterography versus hysteroscopy for diagnosing endouterine abnormalities in fertile women
Authors: Romano F. , Cicinelli E. , Anastasio P.S. , Epifani S. , Fanelli F. , Galantino P.
Published: May 2004

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the usefulness of abdominal and vaginal sonohysterography (SHG) (considered both singly and in combination) for the diagnosis of intrauterine abnormalities. METHODS: At the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari, Italy, the results of the abdominal and vaginal SHG were retrospectively compared with those of conventional transvaginal sonography and hysteroscopy in 35 fertile women in whom a hysteroscopy was indicated. The sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of intrauterine abnormalities of both kinds of SHG (considered both singly and in combination), transvaginal sonography and hysteroscopy were compared; the predictive values of abnormal and normal SHG were determined by a 2 × 2 table relating the test results to the patients' abnormalities shown at hysteroscopy. RESULTS: The combination of both abdominal and vaginal SHG had a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 100%; the predictive value of an abnormal test was 100% and that of a normal test 94%. CONCLUSIONS: SHG provides a reliable diagnosis of intrauterine abnormalities. However, hysteroscopy and guided biopsies remain the decisive diagnostic test for investigating intrauterine abnormalities.
Functional hepatitis C virus envelope glycoproteins
Authors: Voisset Cécile , Dubuisson Jean
Published: May 2004

Summry— Hepatitis C virus (HCV) encodes two envelope glycoproteins, E1 and E2, that are released from HCV polyprotein by signal peptidase cleavage. These proteins assemble as a noncovalent heterodimer that is retained in the endoplasmic reticulum. The transmembrane domains of E1 and E2 are multifunctional and play a major role in the biogenesis of E1E2 heterodimer. Because HCV does not replicate efficiently in cell culture, surrogate models have been developed to study some steps of its life cycle. Recently, infectious pseudotype particles (HCVpp) harboring unmodified E1E2 glycoproteins onto retroviral core particles have successfully been generated. They mimic the function of native HCV particles, thus representing a model to study the early steps of its lifecycle. The noncovalent E1E2 heterodimers present at the surface of the HCVpp, which contain complex‐type glycans indicating modification by Golgi enzymes, are likely to mediate virus entry. The CD81 tetraspanin and the scavenger receptor SR‐BI, two cellular molecules shown to interact with E2, are essential for HCVpp entry. However, these two proteins are not sufficient to provide entry functions in non permissive cells, suggesting that additional unidentified cellular factor(s) are necessary for HCVpp entry. Potential structural homology with other fusion proteins from closely retaled viruses suggest that HCV envelope glycoproteins belong to class II fusion proteins, but contrary to what is observed for other viral envelope proteins of this class, they are highly glycosylated and are not matured by a cellular endoprotease cleavage.
Survey of assessment criteria prior to implantation of spinal cord stimulators in United Kingdom pain management centres
Authors: Ackroyd Rajeena , Bush Dudley J. , Graves Jeanette , McVey Joanne , Horton Sarah
Published: May 2004

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a useful option in selected patients with chronic neuropathic pain. The aim of this questionnaire‐based survey was to determine what assessment methods are used for patients being considered for SCS in pain management centres in the United Kingdom. This was in relation to the recommendations produced by the Task Force of the European Federation of IASP chapters (1998) on neuromodulation. Questionnaires were sent out to previously identified individual SCS implanters. The response rate was 64% (n=44).

The results of the survey were generally encouraging. Just over half of respondents use some form of guideline to assess patients for SCS, most trying opioid and co‐analgesia before proceeding to SCS insertion. There was significant variation concerning absolute contraindications.

The majority of respondents worked in a multi‐disciplinary team and 61% stated their patients received a psychological assessment but although 96% of individuals worked with a specialist nurse only 25% reported that the nurse had an active role in the pre‐assessment of patients for SCS. The development of national guidelines may provide a more standardised approach but further research into the role of the specialist nurse and the benefits of psychological assessment would also be useful.
Characterization of radioligand binding to a transmembrane receptor reconstituted into Lipobeads
Authors: Park Paul S.-H. , Ng Charlene C. , Buck Sean , Wells James W. , Cheng Yu-Ling , Pennefather Peter S.
Published: May 2004

Lipobeads are hydrogel beads surrounded by a lipid bilayer membrane and have been developed to act as a cell analogue. The FLAG‐tagged M2 muscarinic receptor was incorporated onto the surface of the Lipobead by incubating pre‐Lipobeads with proteoliposomes containing the receptor. Receptors reconstituted onto the surface of the Lipobeads were functional in that they bound the antagonists quinuclidinylbenzilate and scopolamine with characteristic muscarinic affinities. This demonstrates the feasibility of using Lipobeads to study the binding properties of the M2 muscarinic receptor and offers a promising approach to the study of transmembrane protein biology in general.
Time-series analysis of abundance indices of young fish
Authors: Gudmundsson G.
Published: May 2004

Catch-at-age analysis provides estimates of stock size at ages when the fish have reached catchable size. Survey indices contain information about relative cohort size at younger ages. The present analysis is concerned with survey indices of juveniles up to the youngest age where stock estimates, based on time-series analysis of catch-at-age data, are available. A stock estimate at that age from catch-at-age data is also included. A common model of the relationship between stock size and survey indices is combined with the model describing the decline of a stock by natural mortality. Random variations in natural mortality are defined separately from sampling variations and irregular catchability in the survey. The stock size and magnitudes of the random variations are estimated by the Kalman filter, which also provides predictions of future recruitment to the catchable stock. Analysis of observations of Icelandic cod reveals a large deviation from proportionality in the relationship between the index and the stock estimates in the youngest ages, but haddock data are compatible with proportionality. Variations in natural mortality during the second to fourth year of cod and the second to third year of haddock are not a major factor in variations of stock size.
Surgery for Dupuytren’s Disease in Japanese Patients and a New Preoperative Classification
Authors: ABE Y. , ROKKAKU T. , OFUCHI S. , TOKUNAGA S. , TAKAHASHI K. , MORIYA H.
Published: May 2004

The surgical outcome of Dupuytren’s disease was evaluated in 73 hands of 57 patients in a Japanese population. Subtotal fasciectomy was performed in all cases. Surgical results were evaluated using the percentage improvement of extension in each finger joint. Statistical analyses were performed on the risk factors associated with recurrence and extension.

The surgical outcome depended on the degree of contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Recurrence of disease occurred in eight patients (14%) and extension occurred in nine (16%). Recurrence and extension frequently occurred in those who had ectopic lesions or involvement of the radial side of the hand. The present results suggested that the Dupuytren’s diathesis had an influence on recurrence and extension.

We proposed a new classification of Dupuytren’s disease that might help to predict the surgical outcome and facilitate surgical planning.
Immediate Repair and Early Mobilization of the Extensor Pollicis Longus Tendon in Zones 1 to 4
Authors: KHANDWALA A. R. , BLAIR J. , HARRIS S. B. , FOSTER A. J. , ELLIOT D.
Published: May 2004

We present the results of repair and early mobilization of 100 extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon injuries in zones 1 to 4 in 100 patients using a dynamic outrigger splint which controlled metacarpophalangeal joint movements but allowed free movement of the interphalangeal joint. Eighty-two were complete divisions of the tendon and 18 were 80% to 99% tendon divisions. Analysis of measurements obtained routinely at 8 weeks showed 81% excellent and good results using the TAM system. There were 90% excellent and good results in the 72 patients who were followed-up and received therapy for 12 weeks. Except on the rare occasion when the repair ruptures, loss of thumb extension was not a common functional problem, but scar tethering of the repaired tendon can result in loss of thumb flexion. While loss of metacarpophalangeal joint flexion appeared to have little functional importance, loss of interphalangeal joint flexion and slowing of the movements of this joint can cause functional problems. When interphalangeal joint hyperextension is present before the injury, it is frequently lost but this generally goes unnoticed by the patients. The problems of analysing the EPL injury using the methods of assessment available are discussed.
Morphological Measurements of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint
Authors: LAWRENCE T. , TRAIL I. A. , NOBLE J.
Published: May 2004

The morphology of the proximal interphalangeal joint was determined using a photographic technique. The head of the proximal phalanx, viewed end on, has a complex trapezoid appearance characteristic for each named digit. The asymmetric condyles diverge from one another and are separated by an intercondylar groove that increases in depth from the dorsal to the palmar surface. Saggital sections of the head of the proximal phalanx are not circular, but, sections taken in the plane of maximum dimensions of the condyle are circular with a radius of curvature of approximately one half of the height of the condyles.

The articular surface of the base of the middle phalanx is not circular in outline in either the saggital or coronal plane. In coronal sections the articular surface is biconcave convex with a prominent median ridge separating the two adjacent concave articular surfaces.

The implications of this varied morphology on implant design are discussed.
Relationship of Carpal Canal Contents Volume to Carpal Canal Pressure in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Patients
Authors: YOSHIDA A. , OKUTSU I.
Published: May 2004

Forty patients long-term haemodialysis with a second recurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome and concomitant loss of flexor tendon function due to flexor adhesions were treated by excision of the flexor digitorum superficialis tendons. During the procedure the carpal canal pressure was measured using a continuous infusion technique. The preoperative mean carpal canal pressure was 81 (SD, 53) mmHg. After removal of all the flexor digitorum superficialis tendons, the carpal canal pressure decreased to 10 (SD, 8) mmHg. The clinical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome were relieved and hand strength and finger motion were improved in all patients.
Severe Contracture of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint in Dupuytren’s Disease: Does Capsuloligamentous Release Improve Outcome?
Authors: BEYERMANN K. , PROMMERSBERGER K. J. , JACOBS C. , LANZ U. B.
Published: May 2004

This prospective study assessed whether patients with severe proximal interphalangeal joint contracture (≥60°) due to Dupuytren’s disease which persisted after fasciectomy alone benefited from an additional capsuloligamentous release. Forty-three patients with 43 severely contracted proximal interphalangeal joints underwent operative correction followed by a standardized postoperative rehabilitation programme. All were followed for 6 months. In 11 patients correction of the proximal interphalangeal joint to 20° could not be achieved by fasciectomy alone, and an additional capsuloligamentous release was performed which effectively corrected all their residual flexion contractures. There were no statistically significant differences between the capsulotomy and the non-capsulotomy group with respect to the residual proximal interphalangeal joint contracture at the end of surgery, or at their last follow-up examination.
Brachioradialis Re-Routing for the Restoration of Active Supination and Correction of Forearm Pronation Deformity in Cerebral Palsy
Authors: OZKAN T. , TUNCER S. , AYDIN A. , HOSBAY Z. , GULGONEN A.
Published: May 2004

A brachioradialis muscle rerouting procedure was used to restore active supination in five children with cerebral palsy and a pronation deformity. Following release and lengthening of the pronator quadratus and pronator teres muscles, respectively, the brachioradialis tendon was divided as a Z plasty and the distal part of the tendon was passed through the interosseous space in a dorsal to palmar direction, and then sutured to its proximal end. The procedure resulted in a gain of 81° of active supination.
A Prospective Study of the Treatment of Fractures of the Little Finger Metacarpal Shaft with a Short Hand Cast
Authors: DEBNATH U. K. , NASSAB R. S. , ONI J. A. , DAVIS T. R. C.
Published: May 2004

This prospective study describes the use of a short hand cast, which leaves the finger metacarpophalangeal and wrist joint free, for angularly displaced little finger metacarpal shaft fractures which require reduction. Twenty-seven patients with a mean age of 25 (range, 16–39) years with little finger or combined ring and little finger displaced metacarpal shaft fractures were prospectively recruited. All were treated by closed fracture reduction and immobilization in the cast. Patients were followed up at 1 week, 4 weeks, and between 6 and 12 months. At each of these follow-up visits posteroanterior and lateral radiographs of the metacarpals were performed to assess angulation of the fracture. The mean initial angulation of the 17 little finger metacarpal fractures with complete follow up was 40° (range, 20–60°). Their mean final angulation at 6 to 12 months was 8°. The fracture reduction was lost in three patients in whom the final angular deformities were 15° (one patient) and 20° (two patients).
Thrombosis and Altered expression of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (Icam-1) after Avulsion Injury in Rat Vessels
Authors: ISOGAI N. , TANAKA H. , ASAMURA S.
Published: May 2004

This study was undertaken to characterize the relative degrees of arterial and venous trauma after graded avulsion injuries. Rat femoral arteries and veins were subjected to reproducible avulsion injuries using forces of between 60 and 220 g. Thrombotic occlusion occurred at lower avulsion forces in veins than in arteries. Histologic and scanning electron microscopic analysis indicated increased endothelial disruption and exposed elastic lamina with increasing avulsion force in both vessels, but more prominently in arteries. Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) mRNA expression was evident at 3 and 6 hours after avulsion injury in veins, but only with higher avulsion force injuries in arteries. ICAM-1 mRNA expression was not found in either vessel before or after this 3 to 6 hour post-injury interval. These results indicate that the amount of avulsion force to which traumatized extremity vessels are subjected has a direct effect on the degree of intimal injury and subsequent thrombosis.
BASIC INCOME VERSUS WAGE SUBSIDIES: COMPETING INSTRUMENTS IN AN OPTIMAL TAX MODEL WITH A MAXIMIN OBJECTIVE
Authors: van der Veen Robert
Published: May 2004

This article challenges the general thesis that an unconditional basic income, set at the highest sustainable level, is required for maximizing the income-leisure opportunities of the least advantaged, when income varies according to the responsible factor of labor input. In a linear optimal taxation model (of a type suggested by Vandenbroucke 2001) in which opportunities depend only on individual productivity, adding the instrument of a uniform wage subsidy generates an array of undominated policies besides the basic income maximizing policy, including a “zero basic income” policy which equalizes the post-tax wage rate. The choice among such undominated policies may be guided by distinct normative criteria which supplement the maximin objective in various ways. It is shown that most of these criteria will be compatible with, or actually select, the zero basic income policy and reject the basic income maximizing one. In view of the model's limited realism, the force of this main conclusion is discussed both in relation to Van Parijs' argument for basic income in Real Freedom for All (1995) and to some key empirical conditions in the real world.
PRUDENCE AND JUSTICE
Authors: Bruckner Donald W.
Published: May 2004

Whereas principles of justice adjudicate interpersonal conflicts, principles of prudence adjudicate intrapersonal conflicts – i.e., conflicts between the preferences an individual has now and the preferences he will have later. On a contractarian approach, principles of justice can be theoretically grounded in a hypothetical agreement in an appropriately specified pre-moral situation in which those persons with conflicting claims have representatives pushing for their claims. Similarly, I claim, principles of prudence can be grounded in a hypothetical agreement in an appropriately specified pre-prudential situation in which those temporal parts of a person with conflicting claims have representatives as advocates of their claims. During the course of developing the prudential contractarian methodology, I consider a dispute between those who would see principles of justice as the outcome of a choice (e.g., Rawls) and others (e.g., Gauthier) who argue for viewing principles of justice as the outcome of a bargain. I contend that the reasons I adduce in favor of viewing principles of prudence as the outcome of a choice weigh equally in favor of viewing principles of justice as the outcome of a bargain.
BELIEF REVISION IN GAMES OF PERFECT INFORMATION
Authors: Clausing Thorsten
Published: May 2004

A syntactic formalism for the modeling of belief revision in perfect information games is presented that allows to define the rationality of a player's choice of moves relative to the beliefs he holds as his respective decision nodes have been reached. In this setting, true common belief in the structure of the game and rationality held before the start of the game does not imply that backward induction will be played. To derive backward induction, a “forward belief” condition is formulated in terms of revised rather than initial beliefs. Alternative notions of rationality as well as the use of knowledge instead of belief are also studied within this framework.
EQUAL VALUE OF LIFE AND THE PARETO PRINCIPLE
Authors: Hasman Andreas , Østerdal Lars Peter
Published: May 2004

A principle claiming equal entitlement to continued life has been strongly defended in the literature as a fundamental social value. We refer to this principle as ‘equal value of life'. In this paper we argue that there is a general incompatibility between the equal value of life principle and the weak Pareto principle and provide proof of this under mild structural assumptions. Moreover we demonstrate that a weaker, age-dependent version of the equal value of life principle is also incompatible with the weak Pareto principle. However, both principles can be satisfied if transitivity of social preference is relaxed to quasi-transitivity.
New evidence on pension plan design and administrative expenses: the Australian experience
Authors: BATEMAN HAZEL , MITCHELL OLIVIA S.
Published: May 2004

Policymakers seeking to design efficient and smoothly functioning pension systems for their aging workforces are beginning to acknowledge the key importance of administrative expenses when formulating rules for pension plan structure and fee disclosure requirements. This study explores the links between retirement plan offerings and pension expenses for a wide range of private and public sector pension plan types, using an invaluable new data set on two thousand Australian pension funds. Our analysis indicates how pension plan design can strongly influence plan expenses and consequently eventual retirement security.
Exhumation of the ultrahigh‐pressure Tso Morari unit in eastern Ladakh (NW Himalaya): A case study
Authors: de Sigoyer Julia , Guillot Stéphane , Dick Pierre
Published: May 2004

Exhumation processes of the ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) Tso Morari dome (NW Himalaya) are investigated using structural, petrological, and geochronological data. The UHP Tso Morari unit is bounded by the low‐grade metamorphic Indus Suture Zone to the NE and Mata unit to the SW. Three deformation phases (D1, D2, and D3) are observed. Only D3 is common to the UHP unit and surrounding units. In the UHP unit, the first deformation phase (D1) produced upright folds, under eclogitic conditions (>20 kbar; 580 ± 60°C). D1 is overprinted by D2 structures related to a NW‐SE trending open anticline. D2 is characterized by blueschist mineral associations, and corresponds to the quasi‐isothermal decompression from a depth of 90 km up to 30–40 km. The final exhumation phase of the Tso Morari unit is dominated by tectonic denudation and erosion (D3), associated with a slight temperature increase. Radiochronological analyses indicate that the UHP exhumation process began during the Eocene. Exhumation was fast during D1‐D2 and slowed down through D3 during the Oligocene. The change in the deformation style from D1‐D2 to D3 in the Tso Morari unit coincides with changes in the exhumation rates and in the metamorphic conditions. These changes may reflect the transition from an exhumation along the subduction plane in a serpentinized wedge, to the vertical uplift of the Tso Morari unit across the upper crust.
Composition of the depleted mantle
Authors: Salters Vincent J. M. , Stracke Andreas
Published: May 2004

We present an estimate for the composition of the depleted mantle (DM), the source for mid‐ocean ridge basalts (MORBs). A combination of approaches is required to estimate the major and trace element abundances in DM. Absolute concentrations of few elements can be estimated directly, and the bulk of the estimates is derived using elemental ratios. The isotopic composition of MORB allows calculation of parent‐daughter ratios. These estimates form the “backbone” of the abundances of the trace elements that make up the Coryell‐Masuda diagram (spider diagram). The remaining elements of the Coryell‐Masuda diagram are estimated through the composition of MORB. A third group of estimates is derived from the elemental and isotopic composition of peridotites. The major element composition is obtained by subtraction of a low‐degree melt from a bulk silicate Earth (BSE) composition. The continental crust (CC) is thought to be complementary to the DM, and ratios that are chondritic in the CC are expected to also be chondritic in the DM. Thus some of the remaining elements are estimated using the composition of CC and chondrites. Volatile element and noble gas concentrations are estimated using constraints from the composition of MORBs and ocean island basalts (OIBs). Mass balance with BSE, CC, and DM indicates that CC and this estimate of the DM are not complementary reservoirs.
The effect of gravity and pressure in the electrodynamics of the low‐latitude ionosphere
Authors: Eccles J. Vincent
Published: May 2004

The source of the plasma drift structure in the low‐latitude ionosphere during magnetically quiet times is generally understood. Nearly all the quiet time electric field structure has been attributed to divergences in the neutral wind current dynamo. However, there are other current drivers active in the low latitude ionosphere: a gravity‐driven current (g × B drift of O+) and a gradient‐pressure current (∇P × B drift of e and O+). The gravity‐driven current is important in the development of the Rayleigh‐Taylor instability and equatorial spread F (ESF) but is ignored in global dynamo electric field models. The gradient pressure and gravity terms in the ionosphere momentum equation normally oppose each other. This paper examines the magnitude of the large‐scale electric fields generated by divergences in these lesser currents in a coupled ionosphere‐electrodynamics model. The low‐latitude electric fields generated by the neutral wind dynamo are altered only slightly by these additional terms. The resulting vertical electric fields (zonal plasma drifts) do not change significantly but the vertical plasma drifts are affected by ∼10 to 15 m/s in the hours before sunrise and after sunset. These low‐latitude plasma drift differences are due entirely to the inclusion of the gravity‐driven current. The gravity current term produces a downward drift after sunset, which reduces the evening prereversal enhancement. Additionally, the positive vertical drift before sunrise is sometimes large enough to cause a predawn vertical enhancement. The gradient pressure terms can be ignored for large and medium scale ionosphere features.
Stormtime particle energization with high temporal resolution AMIE potentials
Authors: Khazanov George V. , Liemohn Michael W. , Fok Mei‐Ching , Newman Timothy S. , Ridley Aaron J.
Published: May 2004

Simulations were conducted to investigate the influence of rapid electric field fluctuations on electron energization in the inner magnetosphere based on the assimilative mapping of ionospheric electrodynamics (AMIE) technique. Simulations for four different magnetic storms were run, namely those that occurred on 15 May 1997, 4 May 1998, 25 September 1998, and 19 October 1998. Here we have examined the formation of high‐energy (100–500 keV) electrons in the inner magnetosphere during these storm events with our recently developed relativistic radiation belt transport code. The point of this numerical experiment is to show that a simulation of a real event must have the high time resolution electric field input files in order to produce the seed population for the radiation belts, which are often observed to increase in the days following a magnetic storm. Specifically, a cadence of the global electric field pattern of 5 min or less produces inner magnetospheric fluxes that are larger (by up to several orders of magnitude) than fluxes produced with a longer cadence. Differences were particularly large relative to simulation results with a 3‐hour time cadence, analogous to a Kp‐driven electric field model.
Numerical simulation of waves driven by plasma currents generated by low‐frequency Alfvén waves in a multi‐ion plasma
Authors: Singh Nagendra , Khazanov George
Published: May 2004

When multi‐ion plasma consisting of heavy and light ions is permeated by a low‐frequency Alfvén (LFA) wave, the crossed‐electric‐and‐magnetic field (E × B), and the polarization drifts of the different ion species and the electrons could be quite different. The relative drifts between the charged‐particle species drive waves, which energize the plasma. Using 2.5‐dimensional (2.5‐D) particle‐in‐cell simulations, we study this process of wave generation and its nonlinear consequences in terms of acceleration and heating plasma. Specifically, we study the situation for LFA wave frequency being lower than the heavy‐ion cyclotron frequency in a multi‐ion plasma. We impose such a wave to the plasma assuming that its wavelength is much larger than that of the waves generated by the relative drifts. For better understanding, the LFA‐wave driven simulations are augmented by those driven by initialized ion beams. The driven high‐frequency (HF) wave modes critically depend on the heavy ion density nh; for small values of nh, the lower hybrid (LH) waves dominate. On the other hand, for large nh a significantly enhanced level of waves occurs over a much broader frequency spectrum below the LH frequency and such waves are interpreted here as the ion Bernstein (IB) mode near the light ion cyclotron harmonics. Irrespective of the driven wave modes, both the light and heavy ions undergo significant transverse acceleration, but for the large heavy‐ion densities, even the electrons are significantly accelerated in the parallel direction by the waves below the LH frequency. Even when the LFA wave drive is maintained, the ion heating leads to the cessation of HF wave excitation just after a few cycles of the former wave. On the basis of marginal stability seen in the simulations, an empirical relation for LFA wave amplitude, frequency and ion temperature is given.
One‐dimensional fluid diffusion induced by constant‐rate flow injection: Theoretical analysis and application to the determination of fluid permeability and specific storage of a cored rock sample
Authors: Song I. , Elphick S. C. , Main I. G. , Ngwenya B. T. , Odling N. W. , Smyth N. F.
Published: May 2004

We describe the conceptual design and first application of a new method for simultaneously measuring the fluid permeability and specific storage of a rock sample. In our laboratory tests, a constant flow rate single‐stroke piston pump injects fluid into a cored rock specimen placed between two reservoirs in which fluid pressure is recorded. For this geometry we have derived a new analytic solution of the governing diffusion equation describing the one‐dimensional fluid flow. This new analytic solution in the time domain consists of two parts: an asymptotic linear function of time, and a transient part which decays to zero as time increases. The model predicts that the fluid pressures of the upstream and downstream reservoirs both increase linearly with time after the initial transient vanishes. The slope of the linear pressure variation depends on the specific storage of the rock sample for a given test condition, and the differential pressure between the two reservoirs is related to the permeability. If the downstream pressure is not recorded, the permeability can be calculated from the zero intercept of the linear upstream fluid pressure variation. This calculation is quite straightforward and no tedious history curve matching is required. We applied our new method to measure fluid permeability and specific storage of Westerly granite. The measured values of the permeability are consistent with those published in the literature. The main advantages of our method are the reliability of the testing method, its economy of time, and the flexibility in adapting the system parameters to tests at different conditions.