bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of soluble oligomers produced by electrochemical oxidation of o‐phenylenediamine by electrospray ionization sequential mass spectrometry
Authors: Losito Ilario , Cioffi Nicola , Vitale Maria Pia , Palmisano Francesco
Published: May 2003

Soluble species generated during the electropolymerization of o‐phenylenediamine (o‐PD) on platinum electrodes in aqueous buffers at different pH values were investigated by electrospray ionization ion trap sequential mass spectrometry (ESI‐ITMSn). The main protonated molecules (MH+) detected in the full scan ESI‐MS spectra of the electrolytic solutions were isolated in the ion trap and sequentially fragmented (MSn, with n up to 5) to obtain fragmentation patterns. The latter led to hypotheses as to the molecular structures of the soluble products of o‐PD electropolymerization; it appeared that all of them are actually oligomeric species in different oxidation states. In particular, o‐PD dimers, trimers and tetramers could be identified and three common structural features were found, namely: the presence of phenazine, 1,4‐benzoquinonediimine, and secondary amine (acting as bridges between benzene rings) units. These findings are in agreement with those already reported for the surface structure of the polymeric films formed on the platinum electrodes during o‐PD polymerization, thus suggesting that a close relationship exists between the soluble oligomers and the polymer itself. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of a quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometer in metabolite identification and bioanalysis
Authors: Xia Yuan‐Qing , Miller Jeffrey D. , Bakhtiar Ray , Franklin Ronald B. , Liu David Q.
Published: May 2003

A new type of quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometer, Q TRAP™ LC/MS/MS system (Q TRAP™), was evaluated for its performance in two studies: firstly, the in vitro metabolism of gemfibrozil in human liver microsomes, and, secondly, the quantification of propranolol in rat plasma. With the built‐in information‐dependent‐acquisition (IDA) software, the instrument utilizes full scan MS in the ion trap mode and/or constant neutral loss scans as survey scans to trigger product ion scan (MS2) and MS3 experiments to obtain structural information of drug metabolites ‘on‐the‐fly’. Using this approach, five metabolites of gemfibrozil were detected in a single injection. This instrument combines some of the unique features of a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer, such as constant neutral loss scan, precursor ion scan and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), together with the capability of a three‐dimensional ion trap. Therefore, it becomes a powerful instrument for metabolite identification. The fast duty cycle in the ion trap mode allows the use of full product ion scan for quantification. For the quantification of propranolol, both MRM mode and full product ion scan in the ion trap mode were employed. Similar sensitivity, reproducibility and linearity values were established using these two approaches. The use of the product ion scan mode for quantification provided a convenient tool in selecting transitions for improving selectivity during the method development stage. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Silica‐based monoliths for rapid peptide screening by capillary liquid chromatography hyphenated with electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Leinweber Felix C. , Schmid Dietmar G. , Lubda Dieter , Wiesmüller Karl‐Heinz , Jung Günther , Tallarek Ulrich
Published: May 2003

Capillary liquid chromatography based on particulate and monolithic stationary phases was used to screen complex peptide libraries by fast gradient elution coupled on‐line to electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (ESI‐FTICRMS). A slightly modified commercial electrospray interface consisting of a fused‐silica transfer capillary and low dead volume stainless steel union at which the electrospray voltage was grounded enabled the effluent of all the capillary columns to be directly sprayed into the mass spectrometer. Stable electrospray conditions were generated over a wide range of mobile phase compositions, alleviating the need for a tapered end of the spray capillary, pneumatic assistance or preheated nebulizer gas. Since the identification of complex samples containing numerous isobaric substances is facilitated by chromatographic separation prior to mass spectrometry, stationary phase materials have been employed which offer a fast, efficient elution and, due to the complexity of samples, a high loading capacity. Silica‐based monolithic capillary columns combine these three characteristics in a unique manner due to a tailored adjustment of both macro‐ and mesopore sizes in the highly porous silica structure. As we demonstrate by a comparative study of the silica‐based monolithic and packed capillaries for LC/MS analysis of complex peptide libraries, silica monoliths show superior performance over packed beds of small‐diameter particles with respect to analysis time and separation efficiency. Libraries with more than 1000 different peptides could be screened in less than 20 min. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Observation of different ceramide species from crude cellular extracts by normal‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Pettus Benjamin J. , Bielawska Alicia , Kroesen Bart‐Jan , Moeller Peter D. R. , Szulc Zdzislaw M. , Hannun Yusuf A. , Busman Mark
Published: May 2003

Normal‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (NP‐HPLC) coupled to atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry (APCI‐MS) allows qualitative analysis of endogenous ceramide and dihydroceramide species from crude lipid extracts utilizing chromatographic methods readily adaptable from commonly used thin layer chromatography (TLC) conditions. Qualitative information for the species comes from observation of differences in chromatographic and mass spectrometric behavior between species. Application to the analysis of ceramide and dihydroceramide from various cell lines is demonstrated. The results show the species profile in each cell line to be unique despite growth under identical conditions. The results from APCI‐MS analysis corroborate and enhance information acquired from use of the diacylglycerol kinase assay for total ceramide measurement. This technique readily allows the previously difficult distinction between ceramide and dihydroceramide species. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinematics of Robot Fingers with Circular Rolling Contact Joints
Authors: Collins Curtis L.
Published: May 2003

This paper examines the kinematics of robot fingers that use RR subassemblies coupled by rolling contact to provide versatile one degree‐of‐freedom mechanical joints. A three degree‐of‐freedom robot finger constructed with these joints is a 6R planar chain with the R‐joints coupled together in pairs. The focus is on coupling based on pure rolling of circular cylinders which can be realized by friction contact, gearing, or cable tendons. We derive the forward, inverse and rate kinematics for this 3(RR) open chain. We then focus on the two degree‐of‐freedom 2(RR) case to illustrate the geometry of the system. An example design of a robot finger that incorporates these joints in order to provide compact movement is provided. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Family of Symmetrical Lower‐Mobility Parallel Mechanisms with Spherical and Parallel Subchains
Authors: Li Q. C. , Huang Z.
Published: May 2003

This paper presents a new family of symmetrical lower‐mobility parallel mechanisms (PMs) with spherical and parallel subchains, which consists of two 5‐DOF (degrees of freedom) PMs, one 4‐DOF PM and five 3‐DOF PMs. The basic feature of this family is that each limb consists of five revolute pairs and can be constructed with two subchains, a 2R pointing subchain and a 3R parallel subchain, or a 3R spherical subchain and a 2R parallel subchain. Different geometrical arrangements of the limbs lead to different degrees of freedom. All the PMs of this family can be modularized easily due to the simple structure of the subchains. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Image processing technique using band splitting in the Fresnel transformed signal domain
Authors: Ito Satoshi , Yamada Yoshifumi
Published: May 2003

There are two methods for solving the Fresnel transform formula using Fourier transforms, one of which uses the Fourier transform once and the other uses it twice. When Fresnel transformed signal of an image is calculated using the inverse algorithm of the latter Fresnel transform method and then the Fresnel transform is calculated by the former Fresnel transform method, the image can be scaled by an arbitrary rate. When the image is down scaled, an alias signal produced in the calculation of the discrete Fresnel transform appears as edge component of the image having high‐frequency components of the original image. The images corresponding to each hand of the Fresnel transformed signal are reconstructed in a different region of the reconstructed image domain like the wavelet‐based multiresolution image analysis. In this paper, the authors describe the band splitting effect due to the Fresnel transforms and compare its characteristics with those of a wavelet image analysis. Also, as an image processing application, the authors performed image sharpening processing for enhancing the signal of the high‐frequency region while suppressing noise. The results confirmed that favorable effects are obtained which are similar to those obtained for wavelets. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 34(8): 51–61, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.10290
A kernel thread running on the outside of the kernel and its implementation
Authors: Tada Yoshikatsu , Fukuda Nobuhiko , Suzuka Tomoyuki , Nakamura Yoshiyuki
Published: May 2003

In this paper, the authors propose a kernel‐mode thread that runs independently of the kernel and external to the operating system, then discuss its implementation and scope of application. Using a test system running FreeBSD 2.2.5 on an IBM PC, the authors were able to create a new thread that had virtually no impact on the Unix system. This external thread and the Unix system are executed via the meta‐scheduler using round‐robin scheduling that allows for CPU preemption. The external thread runs over an interval of several tens of milliseconds, that is periodically in real time. In addition, by making a few changes to the Unix kernel, this interval can be reduced to 1 millisecond, and so can be used for continuous multimedia processing and robot control. This system is superior in terms of how it acquires control from the Unix system. Because control is acquired using the kernel function timeout(), programming the external thread is easier to do compared to other systems. Using this system, the authors created a system that visualizes the states of memory maps for designated processes and periodic monitoring of Unix process states. The system operates reliably, and in the future the authors plan to evaluate various uses for it. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 34(8): 42–50, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.10305
A study of the wiring systems used in the building of a high‐speed wireless LAN
Authors: Wakahara Toshihiko , Sono Kunio , Nakatsuji Yuichi , Shimizu Takao , Matsumoto Mitsuji
Published: May 2003

This paper presents the in‐house wiring method for a 60‐GHz wireless campus network. In Japan, this frequency band was approved for use without a license for the first time in August 2000 by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. We have constructed a new campus network in the Shinjuku district, in which the main buildings are connected by the new 60‐GHz wireless system. Two methods, one using a two‐strand fiber cable and the other using a multistrand fiber cable, for in‐house wiring are studied and their costs for the campus network construction are compared. We found the multistrand fiber cables could be made more cost‐effective and easy to install by using fiber junction boxes and media converters. We have confirmed the validity of the in‐house wiring method in the Waseda campus network. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 34(8): 13–21, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.10405
Speech recognition in cars by speaker localization using microphone array
Authors: Kondo Keisuke , Nagai Takayuki , Kaneko Masahide , Kurematsu Akira
Published: May 2003

This paper proposes a speech recognition system for noisy car environments based on speaker localization using a microphone array. In this system, multiple microphones are arranged in two‐dimensional (2D) space to surround the interior of a car, and the speaker location is first estimated by the proposed HE (Harmonic Enhanced) 2D MUSIC (MUltiple SIgnal Classification) technique. The proposed HE 2D MUSIC is a two‐dimensional extension of the DOA (Direction Of Arrival) estimation method called MUSIC [11]. HE 2D MUSIC also uses the harmonic structure of speech signals to separate target speech signals from additive noise. Then, 2D Delay and Sum (DS) is applied to enhance the target speech. Such preprocessing makes robust speech recognition in noisy car environments possible. Moreover, in the proposed system, not only a driver, but also a fellow passenger can control car electronics by their voices regardless of where they are. The results of simulations and experiments in a real car environment are presented to confirm the validity of our proposed system. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 34(8): 1–12, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.10415
Antecedents and consequences of corporate governance reform: the case of Germany
Authors: Tuschke Anja , Gerard Sanders Wm.
Published: May 2003

The paper examines the antecedents and consequences of the voluntary adoption of corporate governance reform in firms embedded in a relationship‐based governance system with less protection of minority shareholders. In such locations, ownership structure should be a key determinant of governance reform. Firms with dispersed ownership are likely to face agency problems but may lack sufficient ownership power in the hand of external owners for adoption to occur. Extensive ownership by external parties facilitates adoption but decreases the need and motivation to adopt governance reform. We examined the adoption of stock‐based incentive plans and transparent accounting regulations (e.g., greater disclosure to shareholders) among large German firms (DAX 100) during the late 1990s. We found an inverse ‘U’‐shaped relationship between ownership concentration and governance reform. In addition, we found that firms adopting governance reform were more likely to engage in corporate divestitures and achieve higher levels of market performance than firms not adopting governance reform. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Technology sourcing and output of established firms in a regime of encompassing technological change
Authors: Nicholls‐Nixon Charlene L. , Woo Carolyn Y.
Published: May 2003

This paper argues that when the technological basis of an industry is changing, the firm's approach to technology sourcing plays a critical role in building the capabilities needed to generate new technical outputs. Using survey and archival data from the U.S. pharmaceutical industry during the period 1981–91, we find that different approaches to technology sourcing (internal R&D and external R&D) are related to different types of biotechnology‐based output at the end of the period. Internal R&D was positively associated with patent output. Acquisition activity was positively related to number of biotechnology‐based products. Greater use of R&D contracts and licenses was associated with stronger reputation for possessing expertise in biotechnology. These findings underscore the importance of taking a multifaceted approach to technology sourcing in order to build the absorptive capacity needed to generate new technical output. Surprisingly, we also found that involvement in joint ventures was negatively related to patent output. This raises interesting questions about the strategic use of joint ventures in a regime of encompassing technological change. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increasing firm value through detection and prevention of white‐collar crime
Authors: Schnatterly Karen
Published: May 2003

White‐collar crime can cost a company from 1 percent to 6 percent of annual sales, yet little is known about the organizational conditions that can reduce this cost. Previous governance research has examined the link between block holders, boards of directors, or CEO compensation and fraud. In this study, these traditional measures of governance are found to have little impact. Instead, operational governance, including clarity of policies and procedures, formal cross‐company communication, and performance‐based pay for the board and for more employees, significantly reduces the likelihood of a crime commission. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of transvaginal digital examination with intrapartum sonography to determine fetal head position before instrumental delivery
Authors: Akmal S. , Kametas N. , Tsoi E. , Hargreaves C. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: May 2003

Objective

To investigate the accuracy of intrapartum transvaginal digital examination in defining the position of the fetal head before instrumental delivery.

Patients and Methods

In 64 singleton pregnancies undergoing instrumental delivery the fetal head position was determined by transvaginal digital examination by the attending obstetrician. Immediately after or before the clinical examination, the fetal head position was determined by transabdominal ultrasound by a trained sonographer who was not aware of the clinical findings. The digital examination was considered to be correct if the fetal head position was within ± 45° of the ultrasound finding. The accuracy of the digital examination was examined in relation to maternal and fetal characteristics.

Results

Digital examination failed to define the correct fetal head position in 17 (26.6%) cases. In 12 of 17 (70.6%) errors the difference was ≥ 90° and in five (29.4%) the difference was between 45° and 90°. The accuracy of vaginal digital examination was 83% for occiput‐anterior and 54% for occiput‐lateral + occiput‐posterior positions. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated significant independent contributions in explaining the variance in the accuracy of vaginal examination for the station of the fetal head, the position of the fetal head and the experience of the examining obstetrician.

Conclusions

Digital examination during instrumental delivery fails to identify the correct fetal head position in about one quarter of cases. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Placental site trophoblastic tumor masquerading as an ovarian ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Condous G. , Thomas J. , Okaro E. , Bourne T.
Published: May 2003

The vast majority of pregnancies of unknown location (PUL) will be failing pregnancies and early intrauterine or ectopic pregnancies (EPs) that are too early to visualize on transvaginal scan. Very rarely, a positive pregnancy test in the presence of a negative scan will reflect an underlying human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)‐secreting tumor. We report a case in which elevated serum hCG led to the initial diagnosis of an EP which was subsequently found to be a placental site tumor of the ovary. This case shows that a misinterpretation of signs of EP can result in a delay in accurate diagnosis. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical significance of normalization of uterine artery pulsatility index with maternal heart rate for the evaluation of uterine circulation in pregnancy‐induced hypertension
Authors: Ochi H. , Kusanagi Y. , Katayama T. , Matsubara K. , Ito M.
Published: May 2003

Objective

To investigate whether the use of normalized pulsatility index (PI) improves evaluation of the fetal prognosis in pregnancy‐induced hypertension (PIH).

Method

Eighty women with uncomplicated pregnancies and 46 women with PIH (33 with pre‐eclampsia and 13 with gestational hypertension) were included in the study. Uterine artery PI and normalized PI were analyzed in relation to two neonatal parameters: incidence of small‐for‐gestational age infants and incidence of Cesarean section for non‐reassuring fetal status.

Results

In normal pregnancy, the normalized uterine artery PIs (mean ± SD) at 25, 31, and 39 weeks of gestation were 0.70 ± 0.15, 0.71 ± 0.16, and 0.65 ± 0.13, respectively. Using non‐normalized PI, 10 of 46 PIH cases had increased PI; however, with normalization, two pre‐eclampsia cases were added to the group with elevated PI, giving a total of 12. The incidences of small‐for‐gestational age infants and Cesarean section due to non‐reassuring fetal status were higher in the elevated normalized uterine artery PI group. The use of normalized PI appeared to reduce the false‐negative results in pre‐eclampsia and PIH. After normalization, sensitivity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of PI for small‐for‐gestational age infants and Cesarean section due to non‐reassuring fetal status were improved in cases with pre‐eclampsia and PIH. The incidence of these complications was low in gestational hypertension.

Conclusions

Normalization of the PI may improve predictive values for small‐for‐gestational age infants and delivery by cesarean section due to non‐reassuring fetal status in PIH. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sonographic diagnosis of a uterine defect in a pregnancy at 6 weeks' gestation with a history of curettage
Authors: Cheng P.‐J. , Chueh H.‐Y. , Soong Y.‐K.
Published: May 2003

We present the early diagnosis and successful surgical treatment of uterine perforation. This was a rare case of cystic change of a uterine perforation, which was diagnosed by sonography during the first trimester of pregnancy. Surgical closure of the uterine wall defect was successful. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transrectal scanning: an alternative when transvaginal scanning is not feasible
Authors: Timor‐Tritsch I. E. , Monteagudo A. , Rebarber A. , Goldstein S. R. , Tsymbal T.
Published: May 2003

Objective

In scanning the female pelvis the clear images of transvaginal sonography (TVS) result from placing the transducer close to the region of interest. The advantages of TVS over transabdominal sonography (TAS) and transperineal sonography are well documented. Transrectal scanning is proposed mostly for ultrasound guidance in draining a pelvic abscess. Our aim was to investigate the applicability of transrectal scanning (TRS) for cases in which TVS is impossible.

Methods

Forty‐two patients with an absolute or a relative contraindication to TVS were scanned transabdominally and transrectally. The TRS was performed using a transvaginal probe, which was lubricated and slowly advanced into the rectum. The technique used was similar to that of TVS. Images were compared for resolution and quality.

Results

All scans were completed without significant patient discomfort or complaints. TRS was clearly superior to TAS in 31 cases. In nine cases TAS furnished some clinical information but TRS yielded better images. Only in one such case was TAS similar in quality to TRS. In four obese patients TAS did not reveal sufficient pelvic anatomy to generate a clinical diagnosis, whereas TRS revealed two sets of normal ovaries and two patients with ovarian cysts. In the two cases with vaginal agenesis TRS revealed the diagnosis of Rokitansky–Küster syndrome. In three of the four patients with ruptured membranes the cervix could be measured precisely.

Conclusion

Transrectal scanning should be used liberally after proper patient selection and counseling. The images obtained are superior to TAS and comparable to those obtained by TVS. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional power Doppler imaging of ovarian stromal blood flow in women with endometriosis undergoing in vitro fertilization
Authors: Wu M.‐H. , Tsai S.‐J. , Pan H.‐A. , Hsiao K.‐Y. , Chang F.‐M.
Published: May 2003

Objective

The aims of this retrospective study were to investigate whether the quantification of ovarian stromal blood flow and/or leptin concentration are predictive of in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in women after laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy for large endometriomas.

Methods

Twenty‐two women undergoing IVF after laparoscopic surgery for ovarian endometriomas (> 6 cm) comprised the study group. Twenty‐six women with tubal factor infertility constituted the control group. Ovarian stromal blood flow was evaluated by three‐dimensional (3D) power Doppler ultrasound imaging using virtual organ computer‐aided analysis (VOCAL™). Serum and follicular fluid (FF) leptin concentrations were quantified using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit.

Results

There were significantly decreased ovarian stromal blood flow parameters (including vascularization index, flow index (FI), and vascularization flow index) in the endometriosis group without an evident difference in total ovarian volume on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin. The value of FF leptin demonstrated a negative correlation with ovarian stromal FI in the control group, but there was a loss of this effect in the endometriosis group.

Conclusions

Quantification of ovarian stromal blood flow by 3D power Doppler ultrasound in women with endometriosis may provide an important prognostic indicator in those undergoing IVF. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New sonographic finding for the prenatal diagnosis of bladder exstrophy: a case report
Authors: Lee E.‐H. , Shim J. Y.
Published: May 2003

Bladder exstrophy is a very rare congenital malformation in which the anterior wall of the bladder is absent, and the posterior wall is exposed externally. Although sonographic findings of bladder exstrophy have been documented, we report a case presenting with a solid mass in the lower fetal abdomen with umbilical arteries running alongside the mass. The relationship between umbilical arteries and bladder exstrophy is a new sonographic finding which may be helpful in the prenatal diagnosis of this condition. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Behavior of septum primum mobility in third‐trimester fetuses with myocardial hypertrophy
Authors: Firpo C. , Zielinsky P.
Published: May 2003

Objectives

The mobility of the septum primum (SP) in the fetus is a diastolic phenomenon and could be related to left atrial pressure. We studied the linear displacement of the SP in the left atrium in fetuses of diabetic mothers (FDM) with and without septal hypertrophy (SH) and in normal fetuses of normoglycemic mothers. In this study we set out to test the hypothesis that the linear displacement of the SP flap valve is less marked in fetuses with SH than in those without SH.

Methods

The ratio between the linear displacement of the flap valve and the left atrial diameter (excursion index (EI)) was compared in ten FDM with SH, eight FDM with normal septal thickness and eight normal fetuses of non‐diabetic mothers. Atrioventricular flow velocities were also compared in the three groups.

Results

Comparison of the three groups showed that in FDM with SH, the mean EI was 0.36 ± 0.09, in FDM without SH it was 0.51 ± 0.09 (P = 0.001) and in the control fetuses it was 0.49 ± 0.12 (P = 0.03). There was a significant negative correlation between septal thickness and EI in FDM with SH. There was no correlation between septal thickness and atrioventricular flow velocities.

Conclusion

Mobility of the SP in FDM with SH is reduced and there is an inverse correlation between the linear displacement of the SP and septal thickness. These findings may be related to changes in left ventricular diastolic function secondary to myocardial hypertrophy. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cervical length evaluation by transvaginal sonography in nongravid women with a history of preterm delivery
Authors: Pardo J. , Yogev Y. , Ben‐Haroush A. , Peled Y. , Kaplan B. , Hod M.
Published: May 2003

Objective

To evaluate cervical length in the nongravid period in women with a past history of preterm delivery.

Methods

The study population comprised 54 women who had delivered spontaneously before 34 weeks of gestation. Etiology of preterm delivery was suspected to be related to cervical incompetence, defined as a painless and progressive dilatation of the cervix in the absence of other causes. Patients with pre‐eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, uterine anomalies, fetal anomalies, multiple gestation and similar complications were excluded. Shortening of the cervix was recorded during pregnancy in all study patients. One hundred and four women matched for age, parity and body mass index who had given birth at term served as the control group. Cervical length was evaluated in all women at least 12 weeks after delivery by transvaginal sonography in the mid‐sagittal plane.

Results

The mean gestational age at delivery was 30.8 ± 1.2 weeks in the study group and 38.8 ± 2.1 weeks in the control group (P = 0.03). The mean cervical length in the two groups was 36 ± 6 and 38 ± 4 mm, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.9).

Conclusions

In nongravid women with unexplained preterm delivery there is no difference in cervical length compared to patients who deliver at term. Shortening of the cervix is most probably a reversible phenomenon that occurs during pregnancy and represents a failure of the competence mechanism to adapt to pregnancy. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increased nuchal translucency and decreased fetomaternal transfusion after chorionic villus sampling
Authors: Sikovanyecz J. , Horváth E. , Wayda K. , Gellén J. , Pál A. , Szabó J.
Published: May 2003

Objective

To investigate the relationship between nuchal translucency (NT) and fetomaternal transfusion (FMT) after chorionic villus sampling (CVS).

Methods

The level of FMT was determined in 272 viable, singleton pregnancies in which 10–14‐week ultrasound scanning, NT measurement and CVS for fetal karyotyping had been performed. The pre‐CVS NT was measured transvaginally, and the women were divided into two groups, i.e. those with NT < 2.5 mm (Group 1) or ≥ 2.5 mm (Group 2). The level of FMT was determined via the maternal serum alpha‐fetoprotein levels before and after CVS. FMT was analyzed in relation to the pre‐CVS NT.

Results

Of the 272 pregnancies, 213 were in Group 1 and 59 in Group 2. The mean levels of FMT after CVS were 23.3 ± 12.2 and 5.4 ± 2.9 µL in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (P < 0.01). An FMT > 100 µL was found in 19 cases in Group 1, whereas the maximum in Group 2 was 67.2 µL. Aneuploidies were diagnosed in 17 cases, 15 (88.2%) of them in Group 2. When the pregnancies with adverse outcome were excluded from the two groups, a higher level of FMT was observed in Subgroup 1 than in Subgroup 2 (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The mean level of FMT after CVS was significantly lower in pregnancies with an increased pre‐CVS NT, a relationship observed in euploid pregnancies also. An increased pre‐CVS NT seems to be inversely correlated with the FMT increase after CVS. Further studies are planned to investigate the background to this phenomenon. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of metabolic control on fetal nuchal translucency in women with insulin‐dependent diabetes: a preliminary study
Authors: Bartha J. L. , Wood J. , Kyle P. M. , Soothill P. W.
Published: May 2003

Objective

Diabetes could potentially alter fetal nuchal translucency (NT) measurements mainly by increasing microvascular permeability. The aim of this study was to test this hypothesis.

Methods

Sixty‐five women with pre‐pregnancy insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus undergoing NT screening were evaluated. The main outcome measure was the NT measurement, expressed as both absolute measurements and delta values (number of standard deviations by which the observed value differed from the normal mean for the same gestation). The relationships between NT and years of diabetes, insulin dose, glycosylated hemoglobin, and glycemic capillary profiles (‘tight’ glycemic control) were studied.

Results

There was no significant correlation between NT and any of the studied parameters. There were no differences in NT according to the result of either glycosylated hemoglobin or ‘tight’ control.

Conclusions

Metabolic control does not affect the result of ultrasound‐determined fetal NT measurement which, when available, seems to be the best option for screening for Down syndrome in women with diabetes mellitus. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal diagnosis of hypoplastic left heart syndrome and trisomy 18 in a fetus with normal nuchal translucency and abnormal ductus venosus blood flow at 13 weeks of gestation
Authors: Martínez Crespo J. M. , Del Río M. , Gómez O. , Borrell A. , Puerto B. , Cararach V. , Fortuny A.
Published: May 2003

We describe a case of early prenatal diagnosis of a major congenital heart anomaly and trisomy 18 in a low‐risk pregnant woman. Nuchal translucency (NT) measurement at 13 weeks' gestation was 1.2 mm and Doppler evaluation of the ductus venosus detected a persistent reversed flow during atrial contraction. This finding prompted us to perform fetal echocardiography which showed hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Karyotyping following chorionic villus sampling diagnosed trisomy 18. Review of the recent literature suggests that the finding of an abnormal ductus venosus Doppler pattern in the late first trimester of pregnancy may be an early sign of either congenital cardiac or chromosomal abnormality, even in the presence of normal NT screening. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal diagnosis of esophageal atresia with the pouch sign
Authors: Centini G. , Rosignoli L. , Kenanidis A. , Petraglia F.
Published: May 2003

A 19‐year‐old primipara was referred to our center for a routine scan at 33 + 4 weeks' gestation. A visible but small stomach bubble (18 mm) was detected in the fetal abdomen, associated with a dilation of the esophagus with a tapering distal part. Direct visualization of filling and emptying of the proximal esophagus suggested the presence of obstruction. A cystic pouch in the region of the esophagus was observed to be full and empty in accordance with fetal swallowing. No other fetal anomalies were detected. Fetal biometric measurements were on the 10th percentile and polyhydramnios was detected. Esophageal atresia type I was suspected. Fetal karyotyping was declined by the parents, no therapy was given and the pregnancy continued until week 37 when a female baby was delivered following spontaneous labor. Esophageal atresia type I was radiographically confirmed. Bougienage was used for 8 weeks and esophageal anastomosis was successfully performed when the infant was 11 months old. No other anomalies were found and the child is currently in excellent health. The present case shows that the upper neck pouch sign may be a delayed manifestation present only in certain types of esophageal atresia. However, when it occurs it should prompt careful fetal examination as it is an important step in the diagnosis of esophageal atresia. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coronary artery blood flow velocities in various fetal conditions
Authors: Baschat A. A. , Muench M. V. , Gembruch U.
Published: May 2003

Objective

To determine fetal coronary artery peak blood flow velocities in normal and high‐risk pregnancies.

Methods

Coronary artery peak systolic and diastolic blood flow velocities were measured by pulsed‐wave Doppler velocimetry after identification of the coronary arteries by color Doppler imaging. Peak blood velocities obtained from normal pregnancies were related to gestational age using linear regression analysis. Blood flow velocities in normal fetuses were compared to measurements obtained in various fetal conditions.

Results

In normal fetuses coronary artery blood flow was visualized at a median gestational age of 33 + 6 weeks; median systolic and diastolic peak blood flow velocities were 0.21 and 0.43 m/s, respectively, and showed no significant change with gestational age. In growth‐restricted fetuses coronary artery blood flow was visualized significantly earlier in gestation (median 28 + 2 weeks); systolic and diastolic peak blood flow velocities were higher at 0.25 and 0.48 m/s, respectively (P < 0.05). The highest coronary blood flow velocities were observed with fetal anemia. Coronary artery blood flow was also measured in fetuses with ductus arteriosus constriction due to indomethacin. Velocities did not differ from normal fetuses. Both in fetal anemia and ductus arteriosus constriction coronary artery blood flow could no longer be visualized with resolution of the underlying condition.

Conclusion

Examination of coronary artery blood flow dynamics in the human fetus demonstrates acute increases in diastolic velocities in severe anemia and ductus arteriosus constriction based on the severity of the condition. In fetuses with growth restriction increased coronary blood flow velocities can be appreciated throughout the cardiac cycle. Clinical correlation in the interpretation of coronary blood flow dynamics in the human fetus is essential. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maternal transcranial Doppler in pre‐eclampsia and eclampsia
Authors: Williams K. , Galerneau F.
Published: May 2003

Pre‐eclampsia affects 3–7% of women and is associated with significant maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) has been used in pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia to evaluate non‐invasively the cerebrovascular hemodynamics in the maternal middle cerebral artery. TCD has demonstrated in pre‐eclamptic women maternal cerebral vasospasm, which does not correlate with mean arterial pressure assessed simultaneously. Estimated cerebral perfusion pressure, assessed using a modified formula, has been shown to be increased in women with severe and non‐severe pre‐eclampsia. However, in severe pre‐eclampsia, elevated cerebral perfusion pressure is counterbalanced by increases in cerebrovascular resistance and cerebral blood flow is unaffected. In eclampsia a significant fall in cerebral vascular resistance occurs which, in the presence of increases in cerebral perfusion pressure, leads to hyperperfusion. Cerebral vascular changes to date have not been sensitive enough to predict the development of pre‐eclampsia or eclampsia. Longitudinal studies with the aim of predicting the onset of pre‐eclampsia and to assess the effects of various drugs on the maternal cerebral circulation need to be designed. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal diagnosis of congenital leukemia in a fetus at 25 weeks' gestation with Down syndrome: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Robertson M. , De Jong G. , Mansvelt E.
Published: May 2003

Leukemia in a hydropic fetus with hepatosplenomegaly and Down syndrome was diagnosed at 25 weeks' gestation. Spontaneous demise occurred 10 days after the cordocentesis. A review of the literature of the seven cases described antenatally and 10 cases described in the immediate neonatal period or on examination of the stillborn baby is presented. Copyright © 2003 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Civil society and Islam: a sociological perspective
Authors: KAMALI MASOUD
Published: May 2003

Recent political developments in Iran, Turkey, Egypt and Algeria, among others, suggest the possible emergence of an indigenous Islamic path of democratic formation. However, the conventional western interpretations, of religion, and in particular of Islam, leave little room for the recognition of the actual, complex development of such Islamic countries. Defining Islam and modernity as two more or less incompatible phenomena fails to recognize the potentialities of developing modern democratic Islamic societies with their cultural elements and particularities. Many Muslim countries themselves fail to see or are unwilling to recognize their own civil societies and their dynamic potentialities and to accept, in Locke's term, ‘the sovereignty of civil society’. Although the notion of a traditional civil society in the Islamic countries is controversial, I contend that neither individualism nor democratic institutions have been or are necessary for a civil society to exist. The basis of a civil society is the existence of influential civil groups and their institutions that can, through established mechanisms counterbalance state power. Analyzing civil society in Muslim countries requires that we recognize Islam not only as a religion, but also as a political theory and the major source of a legitimization of political power.
Effets de réseau dans la science pré-institutionnelle: le cas de l'optique médiévale
Authors: RAYNAUD DOMINIQUE
Published: May 2003

This paper looks at why the Franciscan order took part in the diffusion of optics, more than other medieval organisation, both religious and secular. First, clues of this social asymmetry are given. Then, an explanation is put forward: 1. An initial asymmetry existed, in the fact that Grosseteste's optics was known in the Franciscan studium of Oxford; 2. Since that date, optics spread among the order through a network effect; 3. The homophilia that presided over the conventual libraries' purchasing policy finally explains why other similarly structured contemporary organizations, similarly structured, took less of an interest in optics. In spite of an obvious topical connection, this explanation differs deeply from the analysis that has been applied to the Puritans' and Jesuits' scientific activity in XVIIth and XVIIIth century classical Europe. It does not appeal to the heavy hypothesis of ethos.
Montesquieu, la république et le commerce
Authors: MANIN BERNARD
Published: May 2003

Contrary to a number of his contemporaries, Montesquieu did not consider that an inescapable antagonism existed between the republican government, based on the virtue of citizens and their dedication to the public good, and commercial activity, which was aimed at material interests. Well aware of the recurrent historical phenomenon of commercial republics, Montesquieu detected various mechanisms by which the commercial spirit could in fact encourage the formation of the psychological mindframe and behaviour necessary for republics. These included, in particular, a respect for rules, a distrust of emotions, a taste for individual independence acquired through work, and allegiance to a noncapricious government.
Taxonomic and biostratigraphical significance of the Tremadoc graptolite fauna from northern Yukon Territory, Canada
Authors: JACKSON D. E. , LENZ A. C.
Published: May 2003

Twenty-two graptolite species are described from the Tremadoc portion
of the Road River Group. In a 220 m thick, graptolite-rich section on Peel River, six
graptolite biozones are recognized which in ascending order are: Staurograptus
dichotomus, Anisograptus matanensis, Adelograptus cf. A. tenellus, Adelograptus
antiquus, Kiaerograptus pritchardi and Paradelograptus kinnegraptoides. The
Psigraptus fauna appears to be confined to a single bedding-plane within a thick
interval dominated by Adelograptus cf. A. tenellus, and for this reason
we propose a new zone characterized by the latter species rather than identify a
Psigraptus Biozone as in China. The Adelograptus cf. A. tenellus
Biozone has yielded Adelograptus? bulmani Spjeldnaes 1963, which we propose
as the type species for the new genus Ancoragraptus. Graptolites recorded from the
Tremadoc of the Yukon for the first time are: Ancoragraptus bulmani, Clonograptus magnificus,
C. cf. C. multiplex, C. cf. C. rigidus, Hunnegraptus copiosus, Kiaerograptus?
bulmani and K? kutchini sp. nov.
Evidence for post-early Eocene tectonic activity in southeastern Ireland
Authors: CUNNINGHAM M. J. M. , DENSMORE A. L. , ALLEN P. A. , PHILLIPS W. E. A. , BENNETT S. D. , GALLAGHER K. , CARTER A.
Published: May 2003

The role played by Cenozoic deformation in denudation and landscape development in Ireland has historically been difficult to assess because of the lack of widespread pre-glacial Cenozoic deposits onshore. Here we combine analysis of apatite fission-track data and geomorphic observations to place constraints on the timing, kinematics and magnitude of onshore deformation in southeastern Ireland. Relationships between apatite fission-track central age and elevation for samples from the Wicklow and Blackstairs Mountains and Tullow Lowland suggest that these rocks record an exhumed apatite partial annealing zone, which after cooling was dismembered by differential vertical displacements of up to several hundred metres. We use inverted models of sample thermal history to show that samples across the region experienced very similar thermal histories up to and including a cooling event in late Paleocene or early Eocene time. This effectively rules out strongly spatially heterogeneous denudation, and implies that differential rock uplift occurred in post-early Eocene time. The central age–elevation relationships define at least three spatial domains with internally consistent apatite fission-track data, separated by known faults or topographic escarpments. Geomorphic analysis of these structures shows that patterns of catchment incision and sinuosity, as well as the presence of antecedent drainage, are best explained by differential vertical displacements at or near the domain boundaries. The kinematics and magnitudes of these displacements are consistent with those implied by the apatite fission-track results, and are compatible with other examples of known Cenozoic deformation from Ireland and the adjacent continental margin.
Integrated biostratigraphy of the lower Silurian of the Aizpute-41 core, Latvia
Authors: LOYDELL D. K. , MÄNNIK P. , NESTOR V.
Published: May 2003

Integrated graptolite, conodont and chitinozoan biostratigraphical data is presented from the Rhuddanian through to lower Sheinwoodian of the Aizpute-41 core, Latvia. Correlation of the biozonation schemes based upon the three groups is achieved from the cyphus through to lowermost riccartonensis graptolite biozones, except for the upper Aeronian and lower Telychian, which lack both chitinozoans and graptolites, and upper lapworthi through to approximately base murchisoni graptolite Biozone, where there is interpreted to be an unconformity. Datum 2 of the Ireviken Event is correlated with a level at the base of or within the murchisoni Biozone. It is possible that the changes in conodont assemblages at Datum 2 on Gotland are the result of an unconformity here. Streptograptus? kaljoi sp. nov., from the lower spiralis graptolite Biozone, is described.