bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of the quality of the DSM‐IV diagnostic definitions through computerized algorithms using macros in SPSS and SAS language
Authors: Granero Rosario , Doménech Josém. , Ezpeleta Lourdes
Published: March 2006

This work addresses methodological and conceptual issues related to the translation of the DSM‐IV diagnoses from verbal language into formal language through computerized algorithms, with the aim of guaranteeing its quality. A great number of biases can affect this process, so the main difficulties connected with each phase are outlined, proposals to standardize the process are advanced, and practical solutions to avoid errors in the formal diagnostic definitions are presented. The steps followed are: (a) classification of the disorders in seven different groups depending on the diagnostic structure they have in the taxonomy; (b) the creation of macros in SPSS and SAS languages that express formally the structures/groups identified; (c) elaboration of 162 macro calls, specifying formally all the particular diagnostic conditions for each DSM‐IV disorder; and (d) checking the correct functioning of the formal definitions proposed in a test data file (that has also been created in this work). Moreover, because the standardization of the process that creates the diagnoses in programming language requires the homogenization of the variable names and the codification formats, we have produced a proposal compatible with the verbal language for identifying, through letters and numbers, all the DSM‐IV criteria. The main contribution of this work consists of facilitating computerized and universal algorithms for obtaining automatically any DSM‐IV diagnosis in three categories (present, absent and not evaluable due to the lack of information) starting from a vector that includes all the criteria for that disorder. This study will also contribute to endowing the classification system most used in psychopathology (DSM‐IV) with greater methodological rigour. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Observer variance within families: confluence among maternal, paternal and child ratings
Authors: Borge Anne I.H. , Samuelsen Sven Ove , Rutter Michael
Published: March 2006

This paper examines patterns of agreement among different informants within the same family in order to determine the effects of maternal distress on the ratings of mothers and fathers. Mothers, fathers and children from a community cohort of 216 families with 13 to 15 years olds reported children's difficulties and strengths measured by the Rutter Revised Scale. The absolute scores on the children's ratings were higher than those of the fathers and mothers. The odds ratios for agreements between fathers and children ranged between 1.70 and 4.01 and for mother‐child agreement between 0.83 and 3.40. There were no significant differences between the mothers and fathers in the extent of their agreement with their children. When mothers were emotionally distressed, there was a significantly higher level of emotional disturbance in the children according to the ratings of both mothers and fathers, but not according to children's ratings. There is value in obtaining paternal, as well as maternal and child, ratings of children's behaviour. Maternal distress affects the ratings of both parents, but not those of the children; the reasons for these effects require further study but they cannot be assumed to reflect rating bias. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Reliability in multi‐site psychiatric studies
Authors: Leese Morven N. , White Ian R. , Schene Aart H. , Koeter Maarten W.J. , Ruggeri Mirella , Gaite Luis
Published: March 2006

Multi‐site psychiatric studies need to take account of cultural and sometimes also linguistic differences and the reliability of the instruments used may need to be re‐established. The analysis of reliability data in these circumstances presents special problems, arising from the requirements to make the best use of all the available data and to compare reliability coefficients across sites, interpreting any differences found in terms of measurement errors and/or sample heterogeneity. Focusing on statistical issues, this paper discusses some topics that should ideally be considered when planning, conducting and analysing such studies. A number of practical examples using data from a recent European study involving the translation and cultural adaptation of five instruments used in mental health service research (the EPSILON Study) are used to illustrate the issues. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Evaluation of three nurse‐administered depression rating scales on acute admission and continuing care geriatric psychiatry wards
Authors: Elanchenny Nalini , Shah Ajit
Published: March 2006

Several instruments measuring depression in institutional settings have been described but individual instruments have only occasionally been compared with each other.

Some psychometric properties, including internal consistency, test‐retest and inter‐rater reliability, and concurrent validity of three nurse‐administered depression rating scales were evaluated on acute admission and continuing care geriatric psychiatry wards.

The Depressive Signs Scale (DSS) was significantly correlated with the Depression in Dementia Mood Scale (DDMS) (rho = +0.59) and the Cornell Scale (rho = +0.71). The DDMS was correlated with the Cornell Scale (rho = +0.32). The internal consistency, as measured by Cronbach's alpha, for the DSS, the DDMS and the Cornell Scale was 0.47, 0.64 and 0.74 respectively. The test‐retest reliability of the DSS, the DDMS and the Cornell Scale was 0.73, 0.62 and 0.83 respectively. The DSS and the Cornell scale had poor inter‐rater reliability, but the DDMS had satisfactory inter‐rater reliability of 0.59.

These scales, with a novel form of administration, are not suitable for detecting significant clinical depression in acutely admitted and continuing‐care geriatric psychiatry inpatients. However, the DDMS has satisfactory properties for use in measuring presence and quantity of depressive symptoms. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The burial of Bad Dürrenberg, Central Germany: osteopathology and osteoarchaeology of a Late Mesolithic shaman's grave
Authors: Porr M. , Alt K. W.
Published: March 2006

The isolated burial of Bad Dürrenberg is one of the richest Mesolithic graves in Europe. Although it was excavated in the 1930s, new spectacular anthropological and archaeological evidence has emerged during a recent re‐study. Firstly, we present here the results of an anthropological re‐evaluation of certain features of the skull base and theforamen magnum. Our work has clearly established that the observable features are caused by an anatomical variation that also includes an atlar anomaly. This developmental variation possibly caused various neuropathological symptoms. The Bad Dürrenberg burial consequently represents a unique case of the possible interpretation of abnormal behaviours in a shamanistic fashion in a prehistoric context. Secondly, we have identified the LSAMAT phenomenon (Lingual Surface Attrition of the Maxillary Anterior Teeth) in the adult individual of the burial. The activities leading to this condition are unknown so far. Thirdly, a split roe deer metatarsus among the burial goods was identified as being involved in the preparation or application of red pigment. The lack of polish and other use wear make it likely that it was produced and used as part of the burial ritual. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antibiotics in pregnancy: analysis of potential risks and determinants in a large German statutory sickness fund population
Authors: Amann Ute , Egen‐Lappe Veronika , Strunz‐Lehner Christine , Hasford Joerg
Published: March 2006

Purpose

Antibiotics are frequently prescribed drugs in pregnancy. The purpose of the study was to analyse the use, the potential risks and the determinants of systemic antibiotic prescriptions during pregnancy.

Methods

A large, nation‐wide acting German statutory sickness fund provided prescription data and personal data of 41 293 pregnant women. For this study, all prescriptions of systemic antibiotics (ATC: J01) dispensed to each woman during a 21‐month period were analysed. We used the FDA risk classification system and enrolled a literature search to identify potentially harmful antibiotics. To investigate the impact of geographical and socio‐economic determinants in antibiotic prescribing, a multivariate logistic regression model was performed.

Results

Of the 41 293 women, 19.7% received at least one antibiotic drug during pregnancy. There was a shift to relatively safe and reduced antibiotic drug use during pregnancy. Prescribing of contraindicated antibactericals or potentially harmful drugs was seen in 521 women (1.3% of all women). In the logistic regression, being younger than 21 years (adjusted OR 2.14, 95%CI 1.80–2.53) or being welfare recipient (adjusted OR 1.57, CI 1.25–2.00) was strongly associated with higher antibiotic use. Significantly lower antibiotic use was seen in 5 of 16 German federal states (OR 0.74–0.83).

Conclusions

About 20% of pregnant women received antibiotics, and 1.3% received a harmful drug. To minimise the risks, detailed guidelines are needed for the antibiotic treatment during pregnancy. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel organosoluble and colorless poly(ether imide)s based on 3,3‐bis[4‐(3,4‐dicarboxyphenoxy)phenyl]phthalide dianhydride and aromatic bis(ether amine)s bearing pendent trifluoromethyl groups
Authors: Yang Chin‐Ping , Su Yu‐Yang
Published: March 2006

A novel series of colorless and highly organosoluble poly(ether imide)s were prepared from 3,3‐bis[4‐(3,4‐dicarboxyphenoxy)phenyl]phthalide dianhydride with various fluorinated aromatic bis(ether amine)s via a conventional two‐stage process that included ring‐opening polyaddition to form the poly(amic acid)s followed by cyclodehydration to produce the polymer films. The poly(ether imide)s showed excellent solubility, with most of them dissoluble at a concentration of 10 wt % in amide polar solvents, in ether‐type solvents, and even in chlorinated solvents. Their films had a cutoff wavelength between 358 and 373 nm, and the yellowness index ranged from 3.1 to 9.5. The glass‐transition temperatures of the poly(ether imide) series were recorded between 237 and 297 °C, the decomposition temperatures at 10% weight loss were all above 494 °C, and the residue was more than 54% at 800 °C in nitrogen. These films showed high tensile strength and also were characterized by higher solubility, lighter color, and lower dielectric constants and moisture absorption than an analogous nonfluorinated polyimide series. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3140–3152, 2006
Quantum theory of symmetric screening in the Hartree approximation
Authors: Rusin Tomasz M. , Zawadzki Wlodek
Published: March 2006

Quantum theory of screening by the electron gas is formulated in the Hartree approximation. The energy of interaction between two charges is calculated taking into account interaction between bare charges, interaction between the charges and the gas, interaction between the electrons in the gas, and finally the kinetic energy of the electron gas in the charges' field. It is assumed that both charges are screened symmetrically, the notion of a test charge is not employed. Our self‐consistent linear screening theory accounts for all second order corrections in the perturbing potentials. We get the known result that the interaction energy is obtained by multiplying the screened potential of the first charge by the bare second charge. However, our result comes about from a partial cancellation between the kinetic and potential parts of the interaction energy in the rigorously symmetric screening, whereas in the standard derivations it results from the asymmetric screening picture with the use of a test charge. The calculated structure of kinetic and potential parts of the interaction energy is discussed. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Symmetry properties of ZnO nanorods and nanotubes
Authors: Tronc P. , Stevanovic V. , Milosevic I. , Damnjanovic M.
Published: March 2006

The symmetry of ZnO hexagonal nanorods and nanotubes depends on the location of their axes with respect to the ZnO wurtzite lattice. When the axis coincides with a threefold rotation axis of the lattice (type I structure), the point and space symmetries are described by the C3v point group and the R 49 (p3m1) rod group, respectively. When the axis coincides with a 63 improper rotation axis (type II structure), the symmetries are described by the C6v point group and the R 70 (p63mc) rod group, respectively. The site symmetry of an atom in the structure is C3v, Cs, or C1, depending on its location. At any point of the one‐dimensional Brillouin zone the direct optical transitions in the nanostructures obey the selection rules governed by the C3v group (type I) or the C6v one (type II). The latter group is that of the Γ point of bulk ZnO. The rules for transitions involving bound states differ from those in the bulk since generally they are governed by smaller groups. The effect of a magnetic or/and an electric field on the symmetry properties of the nanostructures is established. The symmetry of heterostructures located along a single nanorod or nanotube is determined. The envelope function approximation is considered. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Efficient and reliable method for the simulation of scanning tunneling images and spectra with local basis sets
Authors: Paz Óscar , Soler José M.
Published: March 2006

Based on Bardeen's perturbative approach to tunneling, we have found an expression for the current between tip and sample, which can be efficiently coded in order to perform fast ab initio simulations of STM images. Under the observation that the potential between the electrodes should be nearly flat at typical tunnel gaps, we have addressed the difficulty in the computation of the tunneling matrix elements by considering a vacuum region of constant potential delimited by two surfaces (each of them close to tip and sample respectively), then propagating tip and sample wave functions by means of the vacuum Green's function, to finally obtain a closed form in terms of convolutions. The current is then computed for every tip‐sample relative position and for every bias voltage in one shot. The electronic structure of tip and sample is calculated at the same footing, within density functional theory, and independently. This allows us to carry out multiple simulations for a given surface with a database of different tips. We have applied this method to the Si(111)‐(7 × 7) and Ge(111)‐c (2 × 8) surfaces. Topographies and spectroscopic data, showing a very good agreement with experiments, are presented. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
FP‐LAPW investigations of Zn1–xBexS, Zn1–xBexSe and Zn1–xBexTe ternary alloys
Authors: Baaziz H. , Charifi Z. , El Haj Hassan F. , Hashemifar S. J. , Akbarzadeh H.
Published: March 2006

The ab initio full potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP‐LAPW) method within density functional theory was applied to study the effect of composition on the structural and electronic properties of Zn1–x Bex S, Zn1–x Bex Se and Zn1–x Bex Te ternary alloys. The effect of composition on lattice parameter, bulk modulus, band gap and effective mass was investigated. Deviations of the lattice constant from Vegard's law and the bulk modulus from linear concentration dependence were observed for all three alloys. It was deduced that increasing the Be composition in the alloys increases the hardness of the materials. In addition, the calculated band structures showed that the band gap undergoes a direct‐to‐indirect transition at a given concentration. Using the approach of Zunger and co‐workers, the microscopic origins of band gap bowing have been explained. The electron (hole) effective masses were also calculated. The band gap and effective mass were found to vary non‐linearly with Be composition. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Real‐time, real‐space implementation of the linear response time‐dependent density‐functional theory
Authors: Yabana K. , Nakatsukasa T. , Iwata J.‐I. , Bertsch G. F.
Published: March 2006

We review our methods to calculate optical response of molecules in the linear response time‐dependent density‐functional theory. Three distinct formalisms which are implemented in the three‐dimensional grid representation are explained in detail. They are the real‐time method solving the time‐dependent Kohn–Sham equation in the time domain, the modified Sternheimer method which calculates the response to an external field of fixed frequency, and the matrix eigenvalue approach. We also illustrate treatments of the scattering boundary condition, needed to accurately describe photoionization processes. Finally, we show how the real‐time formalism for molecules can be used to determine the response of infinite periodic systems. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Special Issue Current Trends in Electronic Structure: Real‐space, Embedding and Linear Scaling Techniques
Authors: Artacho Emilio , Beck Thomas , Hernández Eduardo
Published: March 2006

This Special Issue of physica status solidi (b) is devoted to the topic of first‐principles simulation of solids, liquids and complex matter and presents articles on the progress in linear scaling methods, electronic transport, simulation of STM images, and time‐dependent DFT methods.

The cover picture is taken from the paper by Torsti et al. and shows an isosurface of the positron density localized at a Ga vacancy in GaN [1]. The positron state is calculated by the real‐space code Mika/doppler based on the Rayleigh‐quotient multigrid method. The code predicts positron lifetimes and momentum densities of annihilating electron–positron pairs measured in positron annihilation spectroscopy for defects in solids.
Differentiating structural isomers of sialylated glycans by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight/time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Mechref Yehia , Kang Pilsoo , Novotny Milos V.
Published: March 2006

Using model acidic glycans, we demonstrate the benefits of permethylation for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight/time‐of‐flight (MALDI/TOF‐TOF) tandem mass spectrometry. With both the linear and branched structures, extensive cross‐ring fragmentation product ions were generated, yielding valuable information on sugar linkages. Elimination of the negative charges commonly associated with sialylated structures through permethylation allowed their structural analysis in the positive ion mode. Extensive A‐ and X‐type ions were observed for the linear structures, and slightly weaker signals for the branched sialylated structures. The diagnostic cross‐ring fragments, permitting a distinction between α2‐3 and α2‐6 linkages of the sialic acid residues, were seen in abundance. Importantly, the cross‐ring fragmentation with the branched structures provides adequate information to assign sialic acid residues, with a specific linkage, to a particular antenna. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative analysis of an oligomeric hindered amine light stabilizer in polypropylene by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry using a solid sampling technique
Authors: Taguchi Yoshihiko , Ishida Yasuyuki , Matsubara Hideki , Ohtani Hajime
Published: March 2006

A small amount of an oligomeric hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) (Adekastab LA‐68LD) in polypropylene (PP) materials was directly determined by solid sampling matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) using an internal standard method. First the matrix reagent (dithranol), 20 mg, and the empirically selected internal standard, angiotensin I (MW = 1296.5), 5 µg, were premixed in the solid state. The matrix mixture was then co‐ground with the PP sample containing the HALS in liquid nitrogen using a freezer mill. The powdered sample mixture was spotted on the sample plate, suspended in ion‐exchanged water, dried to adhere on the plate, and subjected to MALDI‐MS. Three series of the HALS components accompanied by the oxidized species were clearly observed as their molecular ions (M.+) along with that of the internal standard in the mass spectra. A fairly good linear relationship (R2 = 0.9991) with a relative standard deviation of ca. 11% was observed between the relative peak intensities of the HALS components and the HALS contents ranging from 0.1–2.5 wt%, which could be used as the calibration line to determine the HALS content in PP composites directly by MALDI‐MS. The UV‐exposed PP composite samples were evaluated by this method to interpret the photostabilizing action of HALS in the PP materials based on the observed change in the relative abundances of the original and oxidized HALS components as a function of UV‐exposure time. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of strychnos alkaloids using electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance multi‐stage tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Yan Jing , Liu Zhiqiang , Yan Cunyu , Xing Junpeng , Liu Shuying
Published: March 2006

The fragmentations of four strychnos alkaloids have been investigated by electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (ESI‐FTICR‐MS) in the positive ion mode. Experiments using multi‐stage tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐FT‐ICR‐MSn) allowed us to obtain precise elemental compositions of product ions at high mass resolution. The experimental data demonstrated that the nitrogen bridge and the coordinated oxygen atom on the nitrogen bridge in the alkaloid compounds were the active sites in the MS2 fragmentations. The loss of CH3 or the OCH3 group in those alkaloids, which have an OCH3 substituent, was the dominant fragmentation mode in the MS3 fragmentations. Logical fragmentation schemes for strychnos alkaloids have been proposed and these should be useful for the identification of these compounds. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using interpolation to improve path planning: The Field D* algorithm
Authors: Ferguson Dave , Stentz Anthony
Published: March 2006

We present an interpolation‐based planning and replanning algorithm for generating low‐cost paths through uniform and nonuniform resolution grids. Most grid‐based path planners use discrete state transitions that artificially constrain an agent's motion to a small set of possible headings (e.g., 0,
π/4, π/2, etc.). As a result, even “optimal” grid‐based planners produce unnatural, suboptimal paths. Our approach uses linear interpolation during planning to calculate accurate path cost estimates for arbitrary positions within each grid cell and produce paths with a range of continuous headings. Consequently, it is particularly well suited to planning low‐cost trajectories for mobile robots. In this paper, we introduce a version of the algorithm for uniform resolution grids and a version for nonuniform resolution grids. Together, these approaches address two of the most significant shortcomings of grid‐based path planning: the quality of the paths produced and the memory and computational requirements of planning over grids. We demonstrate our approaches on a number of example planning problems, compare them to related algorithms, and present several implementations on real robotic systems.
Terrain characterization and classification with a mobile robot
Authors: Ojeda Lauro , Borenstein Johann , Witus Gary , Karlsen Robert
Published: March 2006

This paper introduces novel methods for terrain classification and characterization with a mobile robot. In the context of this paper,terrain classificationaims at associating terrains with one of a few predefined, commonly known categories, such as gravel, sand, or asphalt.Terrain characterization, on the other hand, aims at determining key parameters of the terrain that affect its ability to support vehicular traffic. Such properties are collectively called “trafficability.” The proposed terrain classification and characterization system comprises a skid‐steer mobile robot, as well as some common and some uncommon but optional onboard sensors. Using these components, our system can characterize and classify terrain in real time and during the robot's actual mission. The paper presents experimental results for both the terrain classification and characterization methods. The methods proposed in this paper can likely also be implemented on tracked robots, although we did not test this option in our work.
Autonomous straightening and traversing of shipboard helicopters
Authors: Feldman A. R. , Langlois R. G.
Published: March 2006

This paper describes an investigation into autonomous shipboard helicopter maneuvering and traversing operations using the Aircraft/Ship Integrated Secure and Traverse (ASIST) recovery and handling system developed by Indal Technologies, Inc. The ASIST system continuously monitors the aircraft's position and orientation and provides a means of actuation to maneuver the helicopter on deck. This allows the possibility for completely autonomous aircraft securing, maneuvering, and traversing capability. An autonomous maneuvering algorithm offers the potential for automatically selecting the optimal maneuvering sequence and executing it with greater efficiency and reliability than can be achieved by a human operator. The proposed method takes advantage of the position and orientation of the helicopter measured by the existing Helicopter Position Sensing Equipment thereby not requiring additional sensors on the actual helicopter. The paper presents the development and validation of the autonomous straightening and traversing algorithms using a nonlinear on‐deck helicopter maneuvering simulation and the Carleton Experimental Shipboard Helicopter Interface Platform.
Nifedipine therapy for preterm labor: effects on placental, fetal cerebral and atrioventricular Doppler parameters in the first 48 hours
Authors: Guclu S. , Gol M. , Saygili U. , Demir N. , Sezer O. , Baschat A. A.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To assess the effect of nifedipine tocolysis on Doppler parameters of the uterine, umbilical and fetal middle cerebral arteries and atrioventricular valves in the first 48 h of therapy.

Methods

Doppler waveforms of uterine, umbilical and middle cerebral arteries and both atrioventricular valves were measured from 28 pregnant women and fetuses prior to and during nifedipine therapy for preterm labor. Maternal and fetal heart rates (FHR), maternal systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and the Doppler pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine, umbilical and middle cerebral arteries were measured. The cerebroplacental ratio (middle cerebral artery PI/umbilical artery PI) was calculated. The total time velocity integrals (TVIs) of tricuspid and mitral valves and their E‐ and A‐wave peak velocity ratio (E/A) were measured. Friedman repeated‐measures analysis of variance was used to compare the variables before and after nifedipine therapy. If significant differences were found, Wilcoxon's signed ranks test was used to analyze the difference between the two variables. A P‐value of < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Nifedipine maintenance was associated with a significant decline in maternal systolic and diastolic blood pressure after 24 h, while maternal heart rate and FHR were unaffected. The uterine artery PI had decreased significantly at 24 and 48 h, while the umbilical artery PI did not change significantly. The middle cerebral artery PI had decreased significantly at 24 and again at 48 h. A significant fall in the cerebroplacental Doppler ratio was maintained beyond 24 h. The mean E/A values, TVIs and TVI × FHR values at 24 and 48 h were unchanged from the baseline values.

Conclusions

Nifedipine maintenance tocolysis is associated with a significant decline in uterine artery and middle cerebral artery Doppler indices 24 h after the first dose. Fetal cardiac diastolic function is unaffected and the significant redistribution observed after 24 h is likely to be attributable to altered cerebral blood flow. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting operative delivery
Authors: Dietz H. P. , Lanzarone V. , Simpson J. M.
Published: March 2006

Objective

Unplanned operative delivery (vaginal or abdominal) is associated with maternal anxiety, maternal and neonatal morbidity and increased resource use. We aimed to identify potential predictors for emergency operative delivery.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study of 202 nulliparous women in a tertiary antenatal unit between 36 and 40 weeks' gestation. The assessment included an interview, a vaginal examination for Bishop score (optional), and a translabial ultrasound examination performed with the woman in a supine position and after voiding to determine cervical length, bladder position on Valsalva, and fetal head engagement. Clinical data were obtained from the institutional obstetric database and patient records.

Results

In the late third trimester, body mass index (P = 0.016), maternal age at due date (P < 0.0001), history of Cesarean section in first‐degree relatives (P = 0.009), Bishop score (P = 0.0004), cervical length (P = 0.001), bladder position on Valsalva (P = 0.003) and head engagement (P < 0.0001) were significantly associated with delivery mode. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the best model for predicting normal vaginal delivery contained maternal age, history of Cesarean section, Bishop score and bladder position on Valsalva and had excellent ability to discriminate between normal vaginal delivery and operative delivery (c = 0.85). The model with the best ability to discriminate between vaginal delivery and Cesarean section contained the same parameters plus body mass index; this model performed even better (c = 0.87).

Conclusions

Identification of women at increased risk of operative delivery appears feasible. A combination of clinical and ultrasound variables yielded a model that is likely to predict delivery mode accurately in up to 87% of cases. Such a model may become useful as an entry criterion for intervention trials in women at low or very high risk of operative delivery. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic cervical change: is real‐time sonographic cervical shortening predictive of preterm delivery in patients with symptoms of preterm labor?
Authors: Jenkins S. M. , Kurtzman J. T. , Osann K.
Published: March 2006

Objectives

To determine prospectively if dynamic cervical change (spontaneous real‐time cervical shortening) is predictive of preterm delivery at < 37 weeks' gestation in patients with symptoms of preterm labor.

Methods

This was a prospective study of patients at 23–34 weeks' gestation who were symptomatic for preterm labor. Patients underwent a 10‐min real‐time sonographic cervical length assessment with measurements taken at 1‐min intervals. The presence or absence of dynamic cervical change, defined as real‐time changes in cervical length observable to the naked eye of the sonologist during the examination, was recorded. Gestational age at delivery was obtained from medical records. Preterm delivery was defined as delivery at < 37 weeks' gestation. Dynamic cervical change and initial and minimum cervical lengths were assessed for prediction of preterm delivery.

Results

Seventy‐six patients were enrolled, and 66 were available for outcome analysis. Thirty‐one patients (47%) exhibited dynamic cervical change. Patients with dynamic change had shorter initial cervical lengths (27 mm vs. 36 mm, P = 0.001), shorter minimum cervical lengths (20 vs. 33 mm, P < 0.001) and larger changes in cervical length during the examination period (10 vs. 4 mm, P < 0.001). In the subgroup of patients with an initial cervical length > 30 mm, those with dynamic change delivered earlier than did those without dynamic change (36.8 vs. 38.6 weeks, P = 0.02), and a higher percentage delivered preterm (27% vs. 11%, odds ratio (OR), 3.0 (0.5–17.0)). Multivariate analysis showed that minimum cervical length was a better predictor of preterm delivery than was initial cervical length.

Conclusions

Dynamic cervical change occurs frequently in association with shortened cervical length. In patients with longer initial cervical lengths, dynamic change may increase the risk for preterm delivery. When dynamic change is noted in a patient with preterm labor symptoms, use of the minimum cervical length observed may be better compared with initial cervical length for determining preterm delivery risk. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Right superior vena cava draining into the left atrium: prenatal diagnosis and postnatal management
Authors: Vassallo M. , Pascotto M. , Pisacane C. , Santoro G. , Paladini D. , Russo M. G. , Calabrò R.
Published: March 2006

Right superior vena cava (RSVC) draining into the left atrium, causing hypoxemia, represents a very rare congenital malformation which has not previously been described in the fetus. We describe a case in which fetal echocardiography at 22 weeks' gestation revealed an enlarged superior vena cava connecting abnormally with a mildly enlarged left atrium. Neonatal transthoracic echocardiography confirmed the diagnosis and showed an abnormal connection of the right pulmonary veins to the RSVC. Right‐to‐left shunt due to anomalous drainage of the RSVC into the left atrium associated with an atrial septal defect and anomalous pulmonary venous return were diagnosed on echocardiography and confirmed by angiography. The newborn was hemodynamically stable at birth and at the 1‐year follow‐up. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nuchal translucency screening and anxiety levels in pregnancy and puerperium
Authors: Müller M. A. , Bleker O. P. , Bonsel G. J. , Bilardo C. M.
Published: March 2006

Objectives

To compare levels of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and puerperium between women who are offered nuchal translucency (NT) screening routinely and those who are not, and to compare levels between women accepting and those declining screening.

Methods

In 12 midwife practices in three different health districts an experimental NT screening program was offered to pregnant women between 1 June 1999 and 1 January 2001. As part of this implementation study, questionnaires including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were completed: after the patient was informed but before screening (T1), at 20 weeks of gestation (T2), and 6 weeks after delivery (T3). A control group of women receiving routine prenatal care (i.e. no screening offered) also completed the HADS questionnaire at 12 and 20 weeks and after delivery.

Results

Five hundred and twenty‐seven questionnaires were analyzed. There was a screening uptake of 87% in the intervention group (i.e. those offered screening). Women in this group differed significantly in the percentage of previous miscarriages and religious background compared with the control group. We adjusted for these differences in the analysis. There were no significant differences in HADS scores between the intervention and the control groups at T1, suggesting that women receiving information on screening were not more anxious compared with women who were not informed. Women who were offered screening (acceptors as well as decliners) had significantly lower HADS levels at 20 weeks and after delivery. There were no demographic differences between women accepting and those declining screening.

Conclusion

Informing women and offering them NT screening for Down syndrome does not increase anxiety or depression levels in pregnancy. In fact, women undergoing or declining screening seem less anxious compared with those who are not offered screening. It is possible that informing women and offering them the chance to decide autonomously whether to participate in screening reduces anxiety levels. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of patient‐specific risk of early preterm delivery using maternal history and sonographic measurement of cervical length: a population‐based prospective study
Authors: To M. S. , Skentou C. A. , Royston P. , Yu C. K. H. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: March 2006

Objective

To develop a model for calculating the patient‐specific risk of spontaneous early preterm delivery by combining maternal factors and the transvaginal sonographic measurement of cervical length at 22 + 0 to 24 + 6 weeks, and to compare the detection rate of this method to that achieved from screening by cervical length or maternal characteristics alone.

Methods

This was a population‐based prospective multicenter study involving 40 995 unselected women with singleton pregnancies attending for routine hospital antenatal care in London, UK. Complete follow‐up was obtained from 39 284 (95.8%) cases. The main outcomes were detection rate, false‐positive rate and accuracy of predicting spontaneous delivery before 32 weeks' gestation.

Results

Spontaneous delivery before 32 weeks occurred in 235 (0.6%) cases. The detection rate of screening for early preterm delivery, at a fixed false‐positive rate of 10%, was 38% for maternal factors, 55% for cervical length and 69% for combined testing. There was good agreement between the model estimates and the observed probabilities of preterm delivery.

Conclusions

This study provides a model that can give an accurate patient‐specific risk of preterm delivery. The detection rate of screening by a combination of maternal factors and the measurement of cervical length was substantially higher than that of screening by each method alone. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Emission of nitrous oxide through a snowpack in ten types of temperate ecosystems in Japan
Authors: Yashiro Yuichiro , Mariko Shigeru , Koizumi Hiroshi
Published: March 2006

The release of N2O from the snow surface in winter and the soil in summer was measured in ten types of temperate ecosystems (bare ground, grassland, forest, marsh, and crop field) in Japan. The snow‐covered crop field emitted by far the largest amount of N2O during the winter. Among the snow‐covered natural ecosystems studied, marshy ecosystems showed the largest effluxes of N2O. Based on results showing that the magnitude of the winter N2O fluxes was not negligible compared with that of the summer N2O fluxes and because the snow period in the areas studied area is sufficiently long, we suggest that the winter N2O fluxes contribute significantly to the annual emission of N2O in the study areas.
Early Polyethylene Wear and Excessive Acetabular Granuloma in an Uncemented HA-Coated Total Hip Arthroplasty—Midterm Results of a Prospective Study
Authors: Ohnsorge Jörg Axel Karl , Davis Jack , Maus Uwe , Saklak Muharrem , Weisskopf Markus , Wirtz Dieter Christian
Published: March 2006

This is a prospective review of 135 HA-coated ABG I total hip arthroplasty (THA) systems with a mean clinical and radiographic follow-up of 8.5 years. The 5-year survival rate was 85%, but 22% of the patients were dissatisfied. Revision THA was already indicated in 28% of the patients, with 26% indicated for cup loosening. PE wear was detected by x-ray in 42%. Disproportionate substantial wear with an average linear loss of 2.6 mm at the inner rim of the insert was observed in 23% of the cases. The mean annual wear rate was calculated 0.1–0.25 mm/year. Laboratory examination of the retrieved PE revealed polishing, cracks, and subsurface delamination. Radiographic evidence of acetabular cysts were found to be excessive granuloma during surgery. Polarization microscopy revealed debris particles phagocytized by reticuloendothelial cells. Results confirm the general opinion that aseptic osteolysis is a cell-mediated process driven by the presence of particles generated from wear debris. The findings also suggest that the main reasons for the failure of the first-generation ABG hip system were an insufficient locking mechanism and poor PE congruency, and not solely poor PE quality.
The role of neuroticism and perceived school‐related stress in somatic symptoms among students in Norwegian junior high schools
Authors: Murberg Terje A. , Bru Edvin
Published: March 2006

The present study investigated the role of neuroticism and perceived school‐related stress in somatic symptoms among a sample of 327 (167 females and 160 males) students in two Norwegian junior high schools. The results suggest that the role of neuroticism on somatic symptoms may be overestimated, and that the role of stress may be underestimated if neuroticism, stress and somatic symptoms are measured at the same time. In this study, both neuroticism and perceived school‐related stress were found to be significantly associated with somatic symptoms.
Up‐regulation of ectonucleotidase activity after cortical stab injury in rats
Authors: Nedeljkovic Nadezda , Bjelobaba Ivana , Subasic Sanja , Lavrnja Irena , Pekovic Sanja , Stojkov Danijela , Vjestica Aleksandar , Rakic Ljubisav , Stojiljkovic Mirjana
Published: March 2006

The objective of this study was to examine the changes in the activity and expression of ectonucleotidase enzymes in the model of unilateral cortical stab injury (CSI) in rat. The activities of ecto‐nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 1 (NTPDase 1) and ecto 5′‐nucleotidase were assessed by measuring the levels of ATP, ADP and AMP hydrolysis in the crude membrane preparations obtained from injured left cortex, right cortex, left and right caudate nucleus, whole hippocampus and cerebellum. Significant increase in NTPDase and ecto 5′‐nucleotidase activities was observed in the injured cortex following CSI, whereas in other brain areas only an increase in ecto 5′‐nucleotidase activity was seen. Immunohistochemical analysis performed using antibodies specific to NTPDase 1 and ecto 5′‐nucleotidase demonstrated that CSI induced significant changes in enzyme expression around the injury site. Immunoreactivity patterns obtained for NTPDase 1 and ecto 5′‐nucleotidase were compared with those obtained for glial fibrillary acidic protein, as a marker of astrocytes and complement receptor type 3 (OX42), as a marker of microglia. Results suggest that up‐regulation of ectonucleotidase after CSI is catalyzed by cells that activate in response to injury, i.e. cells immunopositive for NTPDase 1 were predominantly microglial cells, whereas cells immunopositive for ecto 5′‐nucleotidase were predominantly astrocytes.
Expression of the cochaperone HspBP1 is not coordinately regulated with Hsp70 expression
Authors: Gottwald Eric , Herschbach Mechthild , Lahni Brigitte , Miesfeld Roger L. , Kunz Susan , Raynes Deborah A. , Guerriero Vince
Published: March 2006

Intracellular levels of the heat stress protein Hsp70 are elevated following exposure to elevated temperature. The cochaperone HspBP1 is an intracellular protein that is known to bind to and regulate Hsp70 activity. The purpose of this study was to determine if HspBP1 levels changed when Hsp70 levels were altered. Heat stress resulted in an increase in Hsp70 levels but no change in HspBP1 levels. Treatment of cells with the apoptosis inducing drug camptothecin lowered Hsp70 levels but again had no effect on HspBP1 levels. Cells treated with camptothecin plus heat stress did not exhibit an increase in Hsp70 levels. Over‐expression in cells stably transfected with HspBP1 cDNA resulted in a 290% increase in HspBP1 levels without a similar change in Hsp70 levels. These results demonstrate that Hsp70 and HspBP1 are not coordinately regulated but provide evidence that an increase in the ratio of HspBP1 to Hsp70 correlates with apoptosis, in a similar way to reducing the amount of Hsp70.
Cellular isoform of the prion protein PrPc in human intestinal cell lines: Genetic polymorphism at codon 129, mRNA quantification and protein detection in lipid rafts
Authors: Garmy Nicolas , Guo Xiao‐Jun , Taïeb Nadira , Tourrès Christian , Tamalet Catherine , Fantini Jacques , Yahi Nouara
Published: March 2006

The cellular isoform of the normal prion protein PrPc, encoded by the PRNP gene, is expressed in human intestinal epithelial cells where it may represent a potential target for infectious prions. We have sequenced the PRNP gene in Caco‐2 and HT‐29 parental and clonal cell lines, and found that these cells have a distinct polymorphism at codon 129. HT‐29 cells are homozygous Met/Met, whereas Caco‐2 cells are heterozygous Met/Val. The 129Val variant was also detected in Caco‐2 mRNAs. Real‐time PCR quantifications revealed that PrPc mRNAs were more expressed in HT‐29 cells than in Caco‐2 cells. These data were confirmed by studying the expression of PrPc in plasma membranes and lipid rafts prepared from these cells. Overall, these results may be important in view of using human intestinal cell lines Caco‐2 and HT‐29 as cellular in vitro models to study the initial steps of prion propagation after oral inoculation.
Patients supported for over 4 years with left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Potapov Evgenij V. , Jurmann Michael J. , Drews Thorsten , Pasic Miralem , Loebe Matthias , Weng Yuguo , Hetzer Roland
Published: March 2006

Ventricular assist device implantation has become an established therapy in adults and children for bridging to heart transplantation or to aid myocardial recovery. Recently, implantation of left ventricular assist devices as definitive therapy has been recognized as a better option than pharmacological treatment in patients who are not candidates for heart transplantation. This study presents our institution's experience with five patients successfully supported by two different left ventricular assist devices for over 4 years. This unique experience shows that left ventricular assist device support can be extended beyond 4 years with good quality of life and low risk, making it a good alternative for non‐transplant candidates.
The impact of enterprise systems on corporate performance: A study of ERP, SCM, and CRM system implementations
Authors: Hendricks Kevin B. , Singhal Vinod R. , Stratman Jeff K.
Published: March 2006

This paper documents the effect of investments in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Supply Chain Management (SCM), and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems on a firm's long‐term stock price performance and profitability measures such as return on assets and return on sales. The results are based on a sample of 186 announcements of ERP implementations, 140 SCM implementations, and 80 CRM implementations. Our analysis of the financial benefits of these implementations yields mixed results. In the case of ERP systems, we observe some evidence of improvements in profitability but not in stock returns. The results for improvements in profitability are stronger in the case of early adopters of ERP systems. On average, adopters of SCM system experience positive stock returns as well as improvements in profitability. There is no evidence of improvements in stock returns or profitability for firms that have invested in CRM. Although our results are not uniformly positive across the different enterprise systems (ES), they are encouraging in the sense that despite the high implementation costs, we do not find persistent evidence of negative performance associated with ES investments. This should help alleviate the concerns that some have expressed about the viability of ES given the highly publicized implementation problems at some firms.