bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Heritage presentation through interactive storytelling: a new multimedia database approach
Authors: Pletinckx Daniel , Silberman Neil , Callebaut Dirk 
Published: September 2003

AbstractThis paper discusses the rationale for—and describes the methodology of—a new system of interactive storytelling being developed by the Ename Centre for Public Archaeology Heritage Presentation in Belgium. Based on 5 years' experience with multimedia heritage presentation systems, both on‐site and in museum contexts, this approach to the presentation of history and archaeology enables visitors to create their own ‘stories’ as they explore the information contained in a database. The collaborative virtual environment in this case is the visitor's exploration of a historical monument through a series of interactive panoramas and navigation options that allow the visitor to weave archaeological facts and historical information to larger narratives. Because the visitor can follow a number of different trajectories (of time, space and theme) through the monument, and can freely switch trajectories, hundreds of different narratives are possible. The creation of these interactive stories has a larger educational purpose. It has proved to be a uniquely flexible medium for the communication of personalized, interest‐oriented, and user‐driven heritage information for the general public. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An evaluation of manual vacuum aspiration instruments
Authors: Girvin S. , Ruminjo J. 
Published: September 2003

AbstractObjectives: Manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) instruments vary in quality, cost, and availability. This evaluation of MVA instruments was conducted to provide decision‐makers with information to assist them in determining which instruments to purchase for their specific health care settings. Methods: Nine MVA devices were evaluated for durability, quality, safety, and usability. Study data came from device specifications, laboratory‐based technical studies, and field evaluations. Results: Equipment durability is compromised by high temperatures, quality is compromised by manufacturing defects, and design is key to safe reuse. All MVA instructions are written at advanced reading levels, and device assembly was difficult for most study participants. Conclusions: No single brand of MVA instrument is perfectly suited for every setting. Users can evaluate the appropriateness of MVA instrument characteristics by reviewing the elements assessed in this evaluation, which, by complementing the experience of administrators and clinicians, should enable them to determine which MVA is best for their environment.
Sibling influences on adolescent delinquent behaviour: an Australian longitudinal study
Authors: Fagan Abigail A , Najman Jake M 
Published: September 2003

AbstractThis article examines sibling influences on adolescent delinquency at age 14, using data from an Australian longitudinal study of 374 same‐ and mixed‐sex sibling pairs. Based on maternal and self‐reports, a moderately strong association between siblings’ delinquency is found. The relationship remains significant controlling for childhood aggression and family environment factors measured during childhood (age 5) and adolescence (age 14), using both standardized instruments and new scales. This effect varies according to the sex composition of the sibling pair and is stronger for males and those whose parents have been arrested. The need for increased attention to sibling influences by researchers and prevention practitioners is discussed.
Predicting intraindividual self‐concept trajectories during adolescence
Authors: Young Jami F , Mroczek Daniel K 
Published: September 2003

AbstractThe level and stability of both global and domain‐specific self‐concepts was examined in a study of 253 adolescents, aged 11–20. Intraindividual self‐concept trajectories were calculated through growth curve modeling. Six of the self‐concept domains were stable over time. In the remaining three domains, there was a significant increase in perceived competency. Growth curve modeling highlighted individual differences in both level and change in self‐concept for each of the domains. These differences were partially accounted for by the adolescents’ age and gender, suggesting that these variables are important determinants of adolescent self‐concept.
Applying ethnic equivalence and cultural values models to African‐American teens’ perceptions of parents☆
Authors: Lamborn Susie D , Felbab Amanda J 
Published: September 2003

AbstractThis study evaluated both the parenting styles and family ecologies models with interview responses from 93 14‐ and 15‐year‐old African‐American adolescents. The parenting styles model was more strongly represented in both open‐ended and structured interview responses. Using variables from the structured interview as independent variables, regression analyses contrasted each model with a joint model for predicting self‐esteem, self‐reliance, work orientation, and ethnic identity. Overall, the findings suggest that a joint model that combines elements from both models provides a richer understanding of African‐American families.
Purified Protein Derivative: The Vital Part of the Cervical Tuberculous Adenitis Diagnosis
Authors: Çinar Fikret , Çinar Saniye , Yilmaz Büulent , Gürsel Okan 
Published: September 2003

OBJECTIVEThe purpose of this study was to review the diagnostic procedures for tuberculous cervical adenitis (TCA) and state the most valuable diagnostic protocol.PATIENTS AND METHODSFifty‐eight patients who presented with progressive, painless, enlarging neck masses and were diagnosed with TCA between 1988 and 1998 at Beyoglu Hospital, Istanbul, were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: The chest roentgenograms were normal in all patients. The purified protein derivative skin testing was positive in every case. The fine needle aspiration biopsy was consistent with mycobacterial infection in 27 (46%) of 58 cases, and biopsy results correctly diagnosed TCA in all masses excised.CONCLUSIONTuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the neck masses. Purified protein derivative with detailed history and physical examination should be the first step in the diagnosis.
Plasma Surgery and Topical Estriol: Effects on the Nasal Mucosa and Long‐Term Results in Patients with Osier's Disease
Authors: Sadick Haneen , Ramin Naim , Oulmi Jasmina , Karl Hormann , Bergler Wolfgang 
Published: September 2003

OBJECTIVEThe study goal was to report on the long‐term results and effect of argon plasma coagulation (APC) surgery and topical estriol in patients with Osier's disease who had recurrent epistaxis.STUDY DESIGNIn a prospective clinical study, 52 patients underwent APC and estriol application and were followed for 18 months regarding their bleeding frequency and intensity. Patient blood samples were obtained to determine the serum estriol levels. Scanning electron microscopy of the nasal mucosa enabled a better understanding concerning the effect of estriol on the nasal mucosa.RESULTSEighteen months after treatment, 96% of the patients stated a significantly reduced bleeding frequency and intensity. Under estriol influence, former berry‐like telangiectasia of the nasal mucosa was flatter. The serum estriol levels did not increase significantly in any of the patients. No side effects from the use of topical estriol were observed.CONCLUSIONThe combined treatment approach with APC and topical estriol significantly reduces epistaxis in Osier's disease.SIGNIFICANCEAPC and topical estriol have proved to be a promising alternative in the treatment of Osier's disease.
Transcranial Contralateral Cochlear Stimulation in Unilateral Deafness
Authors: Wazen Jack J. , Spitzer Jaclyn B. , Ghossaini Soha N. , Fayad José N. , Niparko John K. , Cox Kenneth , Brackmann Derald E. , Soli Sigfrid D. 
Published: September 2003

OBJECTIVESThe purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Bone Anchored Cochlear Stimulator (BAHA) in transcranial routing of signal by implanting the deaf ear.STUDY DESIGN AND SETTINGSEighteen patients with unilateral deafness were included in a multisite study. They had a 1‐month pre‐implantation trial with a contralateral routing of signal (CROS) hearing aid. Their performance with BAHA was compared with the CROS device using speech reception thresholds, speech recognition performance in noise, and the Abbreviated Profile Hearing Benefit and Single Sided Deafness questionnaires.RESULTSPatients reported a significant improvement in speech intelligibility in noise and greater benefit from BAHA compared with CROS hearing aids. Patients were satisfied with the device and its impact on their quality of life. No major complications were reported.CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCEBAHA is effective in unilateral deafness. Auditory stimuli from the deaf side can be transmitted to the good ear, avoiding the limitations inherent in CROS amplification.
Prognostic Staging System and Therapeutic Effectiveness for Recurrent or Chronic Sinusitis in Children
Authors: Lieu Judith E. Cho , Piccirillo Jay F. , Lusk Rodney P. 
Published: September 2003

OBJECTIVEWe sought to assess the clinical status of pediatric sinusitis patients after a minimum of 2 years follow‐up and to evaluate relative treatment effectiveness.STUDY DESIGNWe conducted a medical record review of 308 patients, with a 2‐year follow‐up questionnaire.RESULTSOverall, 55% of children were “much improved.” A 4‐stage prognostic system was developed and used to compare results in 133 patients who had not responded to medical treatment and who had positive sinus computed tomography scans. Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) had no apparent advantages in stages I and IV, but in stages II and III, rates of “much improved” for ESS versus medical therapy were 79% versus 54% and 68% versus 42%, respectively.CONCLUSIONThese results suggest that ESS may be particularly effective for patients from intermediate prognostic stages.SIGNIFICANCEThis type of prognostic staging and evaluation of treatment effectiveness is necessary and important in chronic sinusitis, where randomized trials are unlikely to be performed.
Efficacy of Perioperative Thromboprophylactic Agents in the Maintenance of Anastamotic Patency and Survival of Rat Microvascular Free Groin Flaps
Authors: Murthy Prad , Riesberg Michael V. , Hart Steve , Bustillo Andres , Duque Carlos. S. , Said Sheriff , Civantos Francisco. J. 
Published: September 2003

OBJECTIVESWe sought to determine the thromboprophylactic effects of low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) and pentoxifylline.DESIGNRandomized blinded study.MATERIALS AND METHODSSixty Sprague‐Dawley rats were assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups: (1) control group (n = 15), (2) pentoxifylline group (n = 15), (3) LMWH group (n = 15), and (4) combined therapy group (n = 15). A groin/abdominal free flap was elevated in each, with division of the artery and microvascular repair The animals received therapy for 4 days preoperatively and 6 days postoperatively. Flaps were monitored visually, and on the seventh postoperative day, the flap was elevated, and the microvascular anastomosis was assessed for patency.RESULTSThere was a statistically significant improvement in arterial patency in both pentoxifylline and LMWH groups compared with controls (P < 0.01) but no significant improvement with combined therapy (P > 0.05).CONCLUSIONSIn this animal model, LMWH and pentoxifylline have significant thrombroprophylactic effects when used individually but not in combination.
The Relationship Between Tumor Thickness and Clinical and Histopathologic Parameters in Cancer of the Larynx
Authors: Yilmaz Taner , Gedikoglu GÖkhan , Gürsel Bülent 
Published: September 2003

OBJECTIVESWe sought to determine the relationship of tumor thickness to clinical and histopathologic parameters in laryngeal cancer.STUDY DESIGN AND SETTINGWe conducted a retrospective review of laryngectomy specimens of 111 surgically treated T1–3 laryngeal cancer patients for tumor thickness and various histopathologic parameters.RESULTSTumor thickness was significantly related to T, N, and clinical stage; pathologic cervical lymph node metastasis; cartilage invasion; microscopic appearance; mode of invasion to surrounding tissues; perineural invasion; and lymphocytic infiltration (P < 0.05). Tumor thickness had significant correlation with T, N, and clinical stage; cervical lymph node metastasis; cartilage invasion; mode of invasion to surrounding tissues; perineural invasion; and lymphocytic infiltration (P < 0.05). Multifactorial statistical analysis showed that cartilage invasion and lymphocytic infiltration significantly determined tumor thickness independently (P < 0.05).CONCLUSIONTumor thickness is well correlated to most of the reliable clinical and histopathologic parameters, and it is an objective and easy‐to‐obtain measure.SIGNIFICANCETumor thickness can be used as a reliable histopathological factor and should be measured in every laryngectomy specimen.
Age estimation, growth and maturity of the European hake (Merluccius merluccius (Linnaeus, 1758)) from Iberian Atlantic waters
Authors: Piñeiro C , Saínza M 
Published: September 2003

Abstract
Difficulties in age estimation for hake (Merluccius merluccius) have hampered the assessment of stocks. Here, we describe new, agreed ageing criteria based on the interpretation of the pattern of otolith growth. Improved estimates of von Bertalanffy growth parameters, and new estimates of maturity ogive parameters and length–weight relationships for European hake from Iberian Atlantic waters are presented. The results came from a study carried out during 1996–1997 and provide the first published account of the main life history traits of Southern stock hake. von Bertalanffy growth parameters of males were L∞ = 70cm, K = 0.18 year−1, and t0=−0.97 year, and those of females were L∞ = 89cm, K = 0.13 year−1, and t0 = −1.15 year. Growth of sexes differed from age 3 onwards, with females being on average larger and heavier than males. The estimated total length (L, cm)–total weight (W, g) relationships were W=0.0132135L2.8134246 for males and W=0.0086471L2.942563 for females. Spawning took place from December to May with a peak in February. The mean length and age at first maturity were 32.8 cm at 2.5 years for males and 45 cm at 4.4 years for females.
Application of new ageing criteria showed that otolith sections may be used to determine ages up to 5 years in a consistent manner. These results indicate that hake of the Southern stock grow at higher rates and mature earlier than previously considered. Summaries of hake's life history parameters from other marine regions are also presented in order to make information that belongs largely to the grey literature available.
The influence of electroconvulsive therapy on pain threshold and pain tolerance in major depression patients before, during and after treatment
Authors: Schreiber Shaul , Shmueli Dorit , Grunhaus Leon , Dolberg Orna T. , Feldinger Eli , Magora Florella , Shapira Shmuel C. 
Published: September 2003

AbstractDespite the findings that pain and depression are not always directly linked, enough evidence suggest that a complex relationship between pain and depression exists. Using an electronic pressure algometer placed on the sternum, the changes in pressure pain threshold (PPThr) and pressure pain tolerance (PPTol) were evaluated in 19 patients affected by refractory major depression without psychotic features, throughout a full course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment. Measurements were done before the first treatment, after the 6th treatment and after the last treatment. After the 6th treatment, mean (±SD) PPThr increased significantly from 11.48 (±4.81) kg/cm2 at baseline, to 13.7 (±5.59) kg/cm2 (p=0.0076) while PPTol did not change significantly (from 18.46 (±6.75)kg/cm2 to 17.4 ). At the end of the treatment course, mean (±SD) PPThr did not increase further significantly (15.06 (p=0.0234)) while PPTol increased significantly to 21.34 (±7.8)kg/cm2 (p=0.0047). ECT's efficacy was measured with the 21‐item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (21‐HAM‐D). Mean (±SD) 21‐HAM‐D scores decreased significantly from 30.9 (±4.15) at baseline, to 10.47 (±5.78) (p=0.0001) after the 6th treatment, with no further significant change at the end of the treatment course (9.94±3.07; p=0.0254). Both pain threshold and pain tolerance increased following the alleviation of the depressive disorder and a possible usefulness of ECT may be postulated for treating severe, chronic pain syndromes. However, a more significant conclusion is that the increase of the PPThr noted early during ECT treatment may serve as an early outcome possible detector of ECT efficacy in depressed patients.
Influence of intracellular Ca2+ release modulating drugs on bupivacaine infiltration anesthesia in mice
Authors: Smith Forrest L. , LeBlanc Scott J. , Carter Richard 
Published: September 2003

AbstractThe endoplasmic reticulum inside neurons can provide enormous amounts of releasable Ca2+ to increase cytosolic Ca2+ levels through the activation of endoplasmic membrane ion channels. Ryanodine (RyR) channels release Ca2+ into the cytosol when activated by Ca2+ influx through voltage‐gated channels, or by cyclicADP ribose. Inositol tris‐phosphate (IP3) channels are stimulated by phospolipid metabolism and the release of IP3. The hypothesis was tested that drugs that bind RyR or IP3 channels would affect the anesthetic potency of bupivacaine. The radiant heat tail‐flick test was used to assess for anesthesia following subcutaneous infiltration of bupivacaine and Ca2+ modulating drugs in the tails of mice. No musculature is contained in the tail that could result in motor block. The RyR channel agonists 4‐chloro‐m‐cresol and poly‐l‐lysine significantly reduced the anesthetic potency of bupivacaine. The plant alkaloid ryanodine elicited a bi‐phasic effect, with low concentrations blocking bupivacaine anesthesia, and a high concentration enhancing anesthesia. Alternatively, the RyR channel antagonist dantrolene sodium dose‐dependently increased bupivacaine's potency. However, the IP3 channel drugs were inactive. The IP3 agonist adenophostin A failed to affect bupivacaine anesthesia. Furthermore, bupivacaine was unaffected by the IP3 channel antagonists xestospongin C or low molecular weight heparin. Our results indicate that only the RyR channel drugs modulated the anesthetic effects of bupivacaine. Electrophysiological and molecular studies of sensory dorsal root ganglia neurons, the source of Adelta and C‐fiber nociceptors, have demonstrated the presence of RyR3 Ca2+ release channels. This provides the first evidence that RyR channels might affect bupivacaine anesthesia in some fashion.
Selection of endpoints for heart failure clinical trials
Authors: Zanolla Luisa , Zardini Piero 
Published: September 2003

AbstractIn assessing the efficacy and the safety of a new drug, randomized clinical trials represent the standard scientific method. The selection of the best response variables in a clinical trial of a treatment in congestive heart failure patients is often not straightforward; the primary end point of a trial should be clinically relevant, directly related to the primary goal of the trial, and with favorable distributional properties. All‐cause mortality is undoubtedly the most unbiased endpoint, but there is interest both in assessing cause‐specific mortality and hospitalization rate and in evaluating ‘soft’ endpoints (functional status, exercise tolerance); the latter, in fact, are clinically relevant and potentially more useful in mild heart failure patients. Physiopathologic variables (e.g. left ventricular function) could provide information on drug action mechanism. In this paper, several recent large clinical trials are reviewed and the advantages and drawbacks of the response variables used, are analyzed.
Striking improvement of muscle strength under creatine therapy in a patient with long‐chain 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Korenke G. C. , Wanders R. J. A. , Hanefeld F. 
Published: September 2003

AbstractSummary: Creatine monohydrate given orally led to a long‐lasting improvement of muscular weakness and ataxia in a girl with long‐chain 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency
Sequential treatment for Helicobacter pylori eradication in duodenal ulcer patients: improving the cost of pharmacotherapy
Authors: Hassan C. , De Francesco V. , Zullo A. , Scaccianoce G. , Piglionica D. , Ierardi E. , Panella C. , Morini S. 
Published: September 2003

SummaryBackground : Several studies have shown that Helicobacter pylori eradication rates with standard 7‐day triple therapy are unsatisfactory. A novel 10‐day sequential treatment regimen recently achieved a significantly higher eradication rate. To improve the pharmacotherapeutic cost, we evaluated whether an acceptable eradication rate could be achieved in peptic ulcer patients by halving the dose of clarithromycin.Methods : In a prospective, open‐label study, 152 duodenal ulcer patients with H. pylori infection, assessed by rapid urease test and histology, were enrolled. Patients were randomized to receive either a 10‐day sequential treatment comprising rabeprazole 20 mg b.d. plus amoxicillin 1 g b.d. for the first 5 days, followed by rabeprazole 20 mg b.d., clarithromycin 500 mg b.d. and tinidazole 500 mg b.d. for the remaining 5 days (high‐dose therapy), or a similar schedule with the clarithromycin doses halved to 250 mg b.d. (low‐dose therapy). No further antisecretory drugs were offered. Four to six weeks after therapy, H. pylori eradication and ulcer healing rates were assessed by endoscopy.Results : Similar H. pylori eradication rates were observed following high‐ and low‐dose regimens for both per protocol (97.3% vs. 95.9%; P = N.S.) and intention‐to‐treat (94.7% vs. 92.2%; P = N.S.) analyses. No major side‐effects were reported. At repeat endoscopy, peptic ulcer healing was observed in 93% and 93% of patients following high‐ and low‐dose therapy, respectively.Conclusion : The cheaper low‐dose sequential regimen may be suggested for H. pylori eradication in duodenal ulcer patients, even without continued proton pump inhibitor therapy after eradication treatment.