bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of simulation in developing game playing strategies
Authors: Jones Rhys Price , Thuente David J.
Published: January 2007

This paper presents results concerning the use of simulation in the analysis of finite games and the development of strategies for their solution. Programs were developed in the Scheme programming language [Rees and Clinger 1986] to play large numbers of games pitting various strategies against each other. The games discussed here range from the well-known Tic-tac-toe, through versions of ConnectThree for various sized boards, to the commercial ConnectFour game. The ConnectThree game is based on ConnectFour, but was developed as a simplification amenable to play within reasonable time by perfect strategies that look ahead to the end of the game. The game is played on a vertical array with players alternately dropping disks of their color into the array. The first player to create a row, column or diagonal of three disks of their own color wins. The ConnectFour game is similar, but requires completion of a line of four disks of one's own color to win.
Nonlinear operator equations and applications to modelling
Authors: Jones John
Published: January 2007

The main purpose of this paper is to treat the problem of numerical solutions of Lyapunov matrix equations and nonlinear matrix equations such as the Riccati type which occur in many areas of applications such as in control theory, robotics, mathematical modelling and computer simulation, etc. The main approach is to obtain solutions of such type equations in a more direct manner as in contrast to completely interactive methods. Parallel processing of algorithms is made use of in the computation of solutions of such nonlinear matrix equations associated with nonlinear matrix differential equations arising in the study of nonlinear dynamical control systems.
Distributed simulation using distributed control systems
Authors: Reed Morton W.
Published: January 2007

Modern process automation and control systems must be able to control discrete as well as continuous events. These events are sensed and controlled by distributed devices. Simulation is a necessity in order to design and tune the automatic control system. This paper addresses the advantages and disadvantages of using the discrete and continuous functions available in the control system to perform simulations. The simulation should run in real time for the purpose of operator training. The simulation should be transparent to the operator or user. Simulation should use generic building blocks to gain a wide variety of applications. As an example, the same simulator could be used to train both a nuclear reactor operator and a textile process operator. While this usually does not happen, it could become a necessity in an academic environment where fundamental concepts need to be taught to a variety of students with a minimal amount of duplication of effort.
Weaknesses in the temporal key hash of WPA
Authors: Moen Vebjørn , Raddum Håvard , Hole Kjell J.
Published: January 2007

This article describes some weaknesses in the key scheduling in Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) put forward to secure the IEEE standard 802.11-1999. Given a few RC4 packet keys in WPA it is possible to find the Temporal Key (TK) and the Message Integrity Check (MIC) key. This is not a practical attack on WPA, but it shows that parts of WPA are weak on their own. Using this attack it is possible to do a TK recovery attack on WPA with complexity
O
(2
105
) compared to a brute force attack with complexity
O
(2
128
).
Endocrine Role of the Renin-Angiotensin System in Human Adipose Tissue and Muscle
Authors: Goossens Gijs H. , Jocken Johan W.E. , Blaak Ellen E. , Schiffers Paul M. , Saris Wim H.M. , van Baak Marleen A.
Published: January 2007

The renin-angiotensin system has been implicated in obesity-related hypertension and insulin resistance. We examined whether locally produced components of the renin-angiotensin system in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle play an endocrine role in vivo in humans. Furthermore, the effects of β-adrenergic stimulation on plasma concentrations and tissue release of renin-angiotensin system components were investigated. Systemic renin-angiotensin system components and arteriovenous differences of angiotensin II (Ang II) and angiotensinogen (AGT) across abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue and skeletal muscle were assessed in combination with measurements of tissue blood flow before and during systemic β-adrenergic stimulation in 13 lean and 10 obese subjects. Basal plasma Ang II and AGT concentrations were not significantly different between lean and obese subjects. Ang II concentrations were increased in obese compared with lean subjects during β-adrenergic stimulation (12.6±1.5 versus 8.1±1.0 pmol/L;
P
=0.04), whereas AGT concentrations remained unchanged. Plasma renin activity increased to a similar extent in lean and obese subjects during β-adrenergic stimulation (both
P
<0.01). No net Ang II release across adipose tissue and skeletal muscle could be detected in both groups of subjects. However, AGT was released from adipose tissue and muscle during β-adrenergic stimulation in obese subjects (both
P
<0.05). In conclusion, locally produced Ang II in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle exerts no endocrine role in lean and obese subjects. In contrast, AGT is released from adipose tissue and muscle in obese subjects during β-adrenergic stimulation, which may contribute to the increased plasma Ang II concentrations during β-adrenergic stimulation in obese subjects.
Ala92 Type 2 Deiodinase Allele Increases Risk for the Development of Hypertension
Authors: Gumieniak Olga , Perlstein Todd S. , Williams Jonathan S. , Hopkins Paul N. , Brown Nancy J. , Raby Benjamin A. , Williams Gordon H.
Published: January 2007

Accumulating evidence suggests that genes of the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid pathway influence susceptibility to hypertension. Type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase is responsible for the conversion of thyroxine to tri-iodothyronine for use in peripheral tissues. The present study evaluated whether a type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase nonsynonymous polymorphism, threonine 92 to alanine (Thr92Ala), is a determinant of hypertension susceptibility. A total of 372 euthyroid subjects were genotyped for Thr92Ala polymorphism using the Sequenom MassARRAY platform. Associations with hypertension and hypertension-related intermediate phenotypes were performed with generalized estimating equations. Type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase Thr92Ala allele frequencies differed significantly between hypertensive and normotensive subjects, with an excess of Ala92 carriers in hypertensive compared with normotensive subjects (64.8% versus 47.1%;
P
=0.011). Adjusted for age, gender and race, the estimated odds ratio for hypertension in Ala92 allele carriers compared with Thr92 homozygotes was 2.11 (95% CI: 1.15 to 3.89). Among euthyroid adults, the common Ala92 allele of the type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase increases risk for the development of hypertension. These data support an important role for genetic variation in the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid pathway in influencing susceptibility to hypertension.
Exercise Training Prevents Arterial Baroreflex Dysfunction in Rats Treated With Central Angiotensin II
Authors: Pan Yan-Xia , Gao Lie , Wang Wei-Zhong , Zheng Hong , Liu Dongmei , Patel Kaushik P. , Zucker Irving H. , Wang Wei
Published: January 2007

Angiotensin II (Ang II)–induced arterial baroreflex dysfunction is associated with superoxide generation in the brain. Exercise training (EX) improves baroreflex function and decreases oxidative stress in cardiovascular diseases linked to elevated central Ang II. The aim of this study was to determine whether previous EX prevents baroreflex impairment caused by central administration of exogenous Ang II via an Ang II–superoxide mechanism. Four groups of rats were used: non-EX artificial cerebrospinal fluid infused, non-EX Ang II infused, EX artificial cerebrospinal fluid infused, and EX Ang II infused. Rats were treadmill trained for 3 to 4 weeks and subjected to intracerebroventricular infusion of Ang II over the last 3 days of EX. Twenty-four hours after the end of EX, the arterial baroreflex was assessed in anesthetized rats. Compared with non-EX artificial cerebrospinal fluid–infused rats, Ang II significantly decreased baroreflex sensitivity (maximum gain: 3.0±0.2% of maximum per millimeter of mercury versus 1.6±0.1% of maximum per millimeter of mercury;
P
<0.01), which was abolished by acute intracerebroventricular infusion of the Ang II type 1 receptor antagonist losartan and the reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase inhibitor apocynin. EX prevented the decrease in baroreflex sensitivity and downregulated Ang II type 1 receptor and NADPH oxidase subunit protein expression in the paraventricular nucleus of Ang II–infused rats. Finally, EX decreased superoxide production in the paraventricular nucleus of Ang II–infused rats. These results indicate that EX improves arterial baroreflex function in conditions of high brain Ang II, which is mediated by the central Ang II type 1 receptor and associated with a reduction in central oxidative stress.
Genome-Wide Linkage Mapping for Valve Calcification Susceptibility Loci in Hypertensive Sibships
Authors: Bella Jonathan N. , Tang Weihong , Kraja Aldi , Rao Dabeeru C. , Hunt Steven C. , Miller Michael B. , Palmieri Vittorio , Roman Mary J. , Kitzman Dalane W. , Oberman Albert , Devereux Richard B. , Arnett Donna K.
Published: January 2007

It remains unclear whether genetic factors contribute to the susceptibility to valve calcification. Accordingly, echocardiograms and genotyping were performed in 1871 hypertensive siblings who participated in the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network Study. Genome-wide affected sibpair nonparametric linkage analysis was conducted using the allele-sharing method implemented in the Merlin computer program. A total of 1014 sibships from 858 families were evaluated for aortic valve sclerosis or mitral annular calcification. Of these, 78 sibships from 68 families contained ≥2 affected siblings with ≥1 type of valve calcification (142 affected siblings). All 3 of the traits showed a modest degree of familial aggregation, with sibling recurrence risk (SD) and sibling recurrence risk ratio (95% CI) being 0.25 (0.035) and 2.31 (1.72 to 3.11) for aortic valve sclerosis, 0.25 (0.035) and 1.78 (1.36 to 2.33) for mitral annular calcification, and 0.31 (0.030) and 1.52 (1.24 to 1.85) for aortic valve sclerosis and mitral annular calcification, respectively. Affected sibpair linkage analysis revealed the highest logarithm of odds score (3.14) in chromosome 16 at 105.6 cM for aortic valve sclerosis. Other chromosomal regions with logarithm of odds score ≥1.9 were found in chromosomes 19 (2.88), 16 (2.63), 1 (2.12), and 2 (2.03) for aortic valve sclerosis and chromosome 13 (2.12) for any valve calcification. There was no logarithm of odds score ≥1.9 for mitral annular calcification. Our study shows strong linkage of aortic valve sclerosis to chromosome 16q22.1-q22.3 and suggestive linkage to chromosome 19p13.11-p11 and identifies several other promising genomic regions that may contain specific susceptibility loci for valve calcification.
Multimodality Molecular Imaging Identifies Proteolytic and Osteogenic Activities in Early Aortic Valve Disease
Authors: Aikawa Elena , Nahrendorf Matthias , Sosnovik David , Lok Vincent M. , Jaffer Farouc A. , Aikawa Masanori , Weissleder Ralph
Published: January 2007

Background—

Visualizing early changes in valvular cell functions in vivo may predict the future risk and identify therapeutic targets for prevention of aortic valve stenosis.

Methods and Results—

To test the hypotheses that (1) aortic stenosis shares a similar pathogenesis to atherosclerosis and (2) molecular imaging can detect early changes in aortic valve disease, we used in vivo a panel of near-infrared fluorescence imaging agents to map endothelial cells, macrophages, proteolysis, and osteogenesis in aortic valves of hypercholesterolemic apolipoprotein E–deficient mice (30 weeks old, n=30). Apolipoprotein E–deficient mice with no probe injection (n=10) and wild-type mice (n=10) served as controls. Valves of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice contained macrophages, were thicker than wild-type mice (
P
<0.001), and showed early dysfunction detected by MRI in vivo. Fluorescence imaging detected uptake of macrophage-targeted magnetofluorescent nanoparticles (24 hours after injection) in apolipoprotein E–deficient valves, which was negligible in controls (
P
<0.01). Valvular macrophages showed proteolytic activity visualized by protease-activatable near-infrared fluorescence probes. Ex vivo magnetic resonance imaging enhanced with vascular cell adhesion molecule-1–targeted nanoparticles detected endothelial activation in valve commissures, the regions of highest mechanical stress. Osteogenic near-infrared fluorescence signals colocalized with alkaline phosphatase activity and expression of osteopontin, osteocalcin, Runx2/Cbfa1, Osterix, and Notch1 despite no evidence of calcium deposits, which suggests ongoing active processes of osteogenesis in inflamed valves. Notably, the aortic wall contained advanced calcification. Quantitative image analysis correlated near-infrared fluorescence signals with immunoreactive vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, macrophages, and cathepsin-B (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Molecular imaging can detect in vivo the key cellular events in early aortic valve disease, including endothelial cell and macrophage activation, proteolytic activity, and osteogenesis.
The Perils of Profiling: Civil War Spoilers and the Collapse of Intrastate Peace Accords
Authors: Greenhill Kelly M. , Major Solomon
Published: January 2007

In a highly influential article in International Security, Stephen Stedman introduced a model of “civil war spoilers,” which focused valuable attention on the generally underappreciated role of elites in determining the course of negotiations and in implementing intrastate peace accords. For all its virtues, however, the spoiler model did not suggest the best set of strategies for deterring or defeating those who might seek to undermine peace processes. This is because context-specific and actor-specific measures tend to affect diplomatic instruments only at the margin and because, while spoiler type does not change over time, actors' commitment to fulfilling the provisions of peace accords often does; thus these static characteristics cannot be the critical variables the spoiler model suggests they are. Instead, as a detailed reexamination of three of Stedman's case studies (i.e., Angola, Mozambique, and Cambodia) demonstrates, a capabilities-based model offers a more parsimonious and generalizable explanation for why, when, and under what conditions actors who seek to undermine the peace will emerge or retreat. As such, the real key to deterring and defeating would-be spoilers lies in the possession and exercise of the material power to coerce or co-opt them, rather than in the capacity to discern their true character or personality type.
Implication of the Scientist-Practitioner Model in Counseling Psychology Training and Practice
Authors: Myers Dina
Published: January 2007

The scientist-practitioner model was created at the Boulder Conference in 1949 by a 73-member panel consisting of various professionals in the counseling field with the intention to improve counselor training and ultimately, counseling practices. To abide by this model, students and professionals in the counseling psychology field must integrate both science and practice by becoming skillful in research and possessing an extensive understanding of the human condition. The extent to which a dichotomization of science and practice has occurred and its impact on current training and practice are reviewed.
The Bankrupt “Revolution”
Authors: Howard Robert W. , Preisman Jennifer
Published: January 2007

The role of businesses in public schools in the United States has expanded during the era of standards-based reform. This article provides a critical analysis of (a) the argument fundamental to that business influence across the spectrum of involvement; “schools should be run like businesses” and (b) the assertion that “if done so,” kids would learn more, parents would be happier, and society would gain immensely.” Examined here are the arguments of William G. Ouchi, one of prominent proponents of implementing business management practices in school districts. Ouchi claims to have found exemplary school districts that have, through implementing “seven keys to success,” turned themselves around. The authors conclude that neither academic nor financial data from Seattle Public Schools, one of Ouchi’s putative exemplars, support the claim.
Wage Labor and Social Citizenship in the Making of Post-Apartheid South Africa
Authors: Barchiesi Franco
Published: January 2007

The scholarly literature on the South African democratic transition generally recognizes the decisive role of organized labor and black trade union organizations in the collapse of the apartheid regime. Labor's contribution in this regard was premised on a view of liberation that was not limited to the achievement of political rights and civil liberties, but crucially included a discourse of social citizenship enabled by expectations for employment creation, redistribution and decommodification of social provisions. Labor's social citizenship discourse was largely translated into the massive electoral support that the government of the African National Congress (ANC) has enjoyed since 1994. Conservative macroeconomic policies, and the deepening crisis of stable employment that have characterized the South African transition radically challenge, however, wage labor as an effective vehicle of social inclusion and the repository of collective identities and solidarity. The downgraded material conditions and the growing commodification of everyday life that confront a widening share of the black working class question the links between citizenship and wage labor emerged in past struggles. At the same time, the ANC government's social policies have turned the celebration of waged employment into a set of moral and pedagogical imperatives that prioritize labor market participation and the individual responsibility of the poor as alternatives to redistributive interventions regarded as conducive to welfare ‘dependency’. The article analyzes the shifting position of waged employment in relation to access to social services and social citizenship discourse in two specific cases: manufacturing workers in the East Rand region and employees of the Greater Johannesburg municipality.
How Drug Treatment Courts Work
Authors: Gottfredson Denise C. , Kearley Brook W. , Najaka Stacy S. , Rocha Carlos M.
Published: January 2007

This study examines program elements related to reductions in drug use and crime among Drug Treatment Courts (DTC) participants as well as theoretical mechanisms—increased social controls and improved perceptions of procedural justice—expected to mediate the effects of DTC on these outcomes. Data are from 157 research participants interviewed three years following randomization into treatment and control conditions in the evaluation of the Baltimore City DTC. Findings indicate that perceptions of procedural justice reduce crime and that social controls reduce drug use. Hearings attended, drug testing, and drug treatment reduce drug use. Participation in the DTC increases the number of judicial hearings attended, which directly reduces drug use and indirectly reduces crime by increasing perceptions of procedural justice. Participation in the DTC increases social controls both directly and indirectly by increasing the duration of drug treatment. These increased perceptions of social control reduce drug use. Implications for DTC’s are discussed.
Defining Sentence Type
Authors: Harrington Michael P. , Spohn Cassia
Published: January 2007

The effect of legal and extralegal factors on felony sentence outcomes has been widely studied, typically using a total incarceration variable that defines sentence outcomes as incarceration or probation. Research conducted by Holleran and Spohn has called this into question, revealing that factors that affected jail sentences were different than those that affected prison sentences and demonstrating that the conclusions one would draw regarding the influence of extralegal offender characteristics such as race and ethnicity differ depending on the way in which sentence was defined. The authors replicate and extend the research conducted by Holleran and Spohn, using several operational definitions of the decision to incarcerate or not, focusing on sentence outcomes for offenders convicted of felonies in a jurisdiction with an indeterminate sentencing system. Results provide compelling evidence in support of Holleran and Spohn.
Contingent Self-Esteem and Race: Implications for the Black Self-Esteem Advantage
Authors: Zeigler-Hill Virgil
Published: January 2007

Previous research has found that despite being aware of negative stereotypes about their group and experiencing prejudice and discrimination, Blacks tend to report higher levels of self-esteem than Whites. Despite the robust nature of the Black self-esteem advantage, an adequate explanation for the higher self-esteem of Blacks relative to Whites has yet to be offered. The present studies examine whether Blacks and Whites differ in the domains on which their self-esteem is based and whether these differences mediate the relationship between race and self-esteem. The present studies found that Blacks and Whites tend to base their self-esteem on different domains and that the tendency of Whites to base their self-esteem on the approval of others provides a partial explanation for the Black self-esteem advantage. These findings are discussed in terms of their relevance to racial differences in self-esteem.
New immunosuppresor strategies in the treatment of murine lupus nephritis
Authors: Alperovich G , Rama I , Lloberas N , Franquesa M , Poveda R , Gomà M , Herrero-Fresneda I , Cruzado J M , Bolaños N , Carrera M , Grinyó J M , Torras J
Published: January 2007

Renal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus is a common complication that significantly worsens morbidity and mortality. Although treatment with corticosteroids and cytotoxic drugs may be useful in many cases, morbidity associated with these drugs and the relapsing nature of the disease make it necessary to develop new treatment strategies. Five-month old female NZB/W F1 mice were divided into the following groups: CYP group ( n = 10), cyclophosphamide (CYP) 50 mg/kg intraperitoneally every 10 days; RAPA 1 group ( n = 10) oral daily sirolimus (SRL), 1 mg/kg; RAPA 12 group ( n = 13), oral daily SRL, 12 mg/kg; FTY group ( n = 10), oral fingolimod (FTY720), 2 mg/kg three times per week. An additional group of 13 non-treated mice were used as a control (control group). Follow-up was performed over four months. Animal survival, body weight, anti-DNA antibodies and proteinuria were determined. Kidneys were processed for conventional histology and immunofluorescence for IgG and complement. Total histological score (HS) was the sum of mesangial expansion, endocapillary proliferation glomerular deposits, extracapillary proliferation, interstitial infiltrates, tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis. All treated groups had lower proteinuria at the end of the follow-up with respect to the control group ( P < 0.0001). Serum anti-DNA antibodies were appropriately controlled in RAPA 1 and CYP groups, but not in FTY or RAPA 12 groups. SRL and CYP arrested, and perhaps reversed almost all histological lesions. FTY720 ameliorated histological lesions but did not control mesangial expansion or interstitial infiltrates. SRL produces great improvement in murine lupus nephritis, while FTY720 seems a promising alternative if used in appropriate doses.
A pilot study on tacrolimus treatment in membranous or quiescent lupus nephritis with proteinuria resistant to angiotensin inhibition or blockade
Authors: Tse K C , Lam M F , Tang S CW , Tang C SO , Chan T M
Published: January 2007

Persistent proteinuria in patients with quiescent lupus can result from membranous lupus nephritis and/or glomerular scarring following previous flares. This pilot study examined the effects of tacrolimus over two years in six patients with membranous/inactive lupus nephritis and persistent proteinuria despite angiotensin inhibition/blockade. Tacrolimus treatment reduced proteinuria and increased serum albumin (time effect, P = 0.047 and 0.032 respectively). Compared with baseline levels, proteinuria improved by more than 50% in five patients (83.3%) and hypoalbuminaemia was corrected in four patients. The efficacy was most prominent in four patients with biopsy-proven membranous lupus nephritis, whose protienuria improved by over 80%. One patient developed biopsy-proven chronic nephrotoxicity after 10 months of tacrolimus treatment, despite non-excessive blood levels. These data suggest that tacrolimus is an effective treatment for proteinuria due to membranous lupus nephritis, but should probably be reserved for patients who are refractory to other non-nephrotoxic treatments, in view of the potential risk of subclinical nephrotoxicity.
Institutional Legitimacy and Crime in Venezuela
Authors: Crespo Freddy
Published: January 2007

Crime rates in Venezuela increased considerably at the end of the 1970s, and even more so from the mid-1990s onward. Likewise, the country’s major institutions experienced considerable change, moving from constant growth through crisis to a gradual loss of legitimacy. Based on LaFree’s model of institutional legitimacy and crime, the author tests the hypothesis that the declining legitimacy of key institutions was associated with increasing crime rates. Government statistics are used to measure institutional legitimacy and crime rates for the period between 1957 and 2003. Statistical analysis based on auto-regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) techniques and cross-correlation finds no relationship between the two sets of variables, with the partial exception of robbery. These findings should be considered provisional rather than definitive because alternative variables, additional observations, and alternative statistical techniques might have produced different results. However, alternative explanations of crime rates should also be explored.
Management and Music: The Exceptional Case of the IBM Songbook
Authors: El-Sawad Amal , Korczynski Marek
Published: January 2007

The use of music in organizational management is a rare occurrence. IBM in the United States is an exceptional case. IBM managers routinely and successfully used songs from the IBM songbook to engage, enthuse, and inspire employees during a number of decades in the mid-20th century. In this article, the authors locate the songbook in its organizational setting and present a detailed analysis of the lyrics and the music of the songs contained in it. Using a metaphor of musical resonance, they offer explanations for the prolonged use and then subsequent decline of the IBM songbook. The authors assess the ways in which understanding this exceptional case can help explain why music has been so rarely used by managers to engage workers.
Home Health Care After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita: A Report From the Field
Authors: Weeber Stan C.
Published: January 2007

On August 30, 2005, displaced New Orleanians first learned that the levees of their city had been overtopped and then breached by the storm surge from Hurricane Katrina. New Orleans would soon be 80% flooded. Within a month, Hurricane Rita arrived in New Orleans, making cleanup and recovery an even more difficult process. This article discusses the preparation and follow-up still going on today and the role of health care providers, particularly home care providers, in the aftermath of Katrina and Rita.
Onset and underpinnings of white matter atrophy at the very early stage of multiple sclerosis - a two-year longitudinal MRI/MRSI study of corpus callosum
Authors: Audoin B , Ibarrola D , Malikova I , Soulier E , Confort-Gouny S , Duong M-V Au , Reuter F , Viout P , Ali-Chérif A , Cozzone P J , Pelletier J , Ranjeva J-P
Published: January 2007

Backgrounds Atrophy of corpus callosum (CC), a white matter structure linking the two hemispheres, is commonly observed in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the occurrence and processes leading to this alteration are not yet determined.

Goal and methods To better characterize the onset and progression of CC atrophy from the early stage of MS, we performed a two-year follow-up magnetic resonance imaging/magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRI/MRSI) exploration of CC in 24 patients with clinically isolated syndrome. These patients were explored using the same protocol at month (M)6, M12 and M24. MRI/MRSI techniques were applied to measure CC volume, and relative concentrations of N-acetylaspartate (NAA), creatine/phosphocreatine (Cr) and choline-containing compounds (Cho). A group of matched controls was also explored.

Results Atrophy of CC, not present at baseline, was observed at M12 and progressed over the second year (M24). At baseline, a decrease in relative NAA level was observed in the anterior and posterior body of CC, with normalization during the follow-up period. In the anterior body, an increase in relative Cho level was observed, with normalization at M6. Normal relative Cr levels were observed at all time points in all sub-regions. The rate of CC atrophy was correlated with the change in the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) during the follow-up period.

Conclusion These results suggest that CC atrophy appears over a period of one year after the first acute inflammatory episode, and that this atrophy is accompanied, especially in the anterior body of CC, by a normalization of the relative Cho levels, marker of acute inflammation, and NAA levels, marker of neuronal dysfunction and/or loss.
Re-considering Job
Authors: Newsom Carol A.
Published: January 2007

Although recent scholarship on Job has tended to approach the book from interpretive stances that are at some distance from traditional historical-critical verities, the classic historical-critical questions about the unity of the book continue to dominate the way questions are posed. Hermeneutical disputes about the book focus on interpreters’ decisions to find a way to preserve a resistant Job, or to advocate for an interpretation of the divine speeches that makes comprehensible a Job who ‘sees’ in a new way, and so is willing to renounce his alienation. A new direction of Joban scholarship focuses on the reception history of the book.
Interpretive Ambiguities and Scholarly Proclivities in Pauline Studies: A Treatment of Three Texts from 1 Thessalonians 4 as a Test Case
Authors: Still Todd D.
Published: January 2007

Interpretive impasses are part and parcel of Pauline studies. This essay examines scholarly stalemates resulting from learned readings of Paul’s instructions to the Thessalonians regarding sexual purity, work and grief in 1 Thess. 4.4, 11 and 13 respectively. Furthermore, this article observes the exegetical moves that interpreters make in treating these texts. The fact that specialists of 1 Thessalonians draw decidedly different conclusions as to the meaning of Paul’s instructions to his converts regarding marrying, laboring and mourning highlights the importance of the following issues in Pauline interpretation: (1) authorial intent; (2) cultural and contextual influences upon both the author and the audience; and (3) textual parallels. I conclude this paper by playing my own interpretive hand on the verses under discussion.
The 'Kaufman Effect' in the Pseudo-Jonathan Targum
Authors: COOK EDWARD M.
Published: January 2007

S.A. Kaufman has recently enunciated a rule of textual criticism that he has applied to certain targum texts-namely, that a frequently copied work will have more changes due to copyist interference at the beginning than at the end. Therefore the best evidence for the original readings and language of such a text is in its latter portions. An examination of certain orthographical, grammatical, and lexical elements in Targum Pseudo-Jonathan confirms the presence of this 'Kaufman Effect' in that targum; archaic or 'classical' elements tend to cluster in Genesis and Exodus, but are much less frequent in the later books. This has implications for the understanding of Pseudo-Jonathan's grammar and textual development.
A Giant among Bibles: 'Erfurt 1' or Cod. Or. Fol. 1210-1211 at the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin
Authors: KROEZE D.J .D. , VAN STAALDUINE-SULMAN E.
Published: January 2007

This article provides a description of MS 'Erfurt 1', now classified as Cod. Or. Fol. 1210-1211 at the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin. This manuscript is a huge Hebrew and Aramaic Bible, rooted in the tradition of the giant Bibles. The creation of this Bible was finished in 1343, most probably in or in the neighbourhood of Erfurt. The consonantal text is Ashkenazi, related to MS El. f.6 at the Thüringer Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek of Jena. It also contains the text of an Ashkenazi tosefta-targum to 1 Sam. 17.8. The manuscript was severely damaged during the World War II. Restoration of the first volume is already underway.
'The Role of the "Three" in the Text History of the Septuagint': II. Aspects of Interdependence of the Old Greek and the Three in Ecclesiastes
Authors: GENTRY PETER J.
Published: January 2007

This study elucidates corruption and influence from the versions of the Three Jewish Revisors (Aquila, Symmachus, and Theodotion) on the textual transmission of the Greek Ecclesiastes and its congeners, especially the Old Latin, as well as corruption of the textual transmission of the Three from the LXX. In some cases, the incestuous relationship between the LXX and the Three cannot be sorted out. The Syro-Hexapla, the Syriac translation of the hexaplaric text, is one of the most important and reliable witnesses to the hexaplaric group and to the Three. The analysis clarifies considerably the text history of the LXX Ecclesiastes.
'Upon this Rock': Matthew 16.18 and the Aramaic Evidence
Authors: FINLEY THOMAS
Published: January 2007

In the Greek text of Mt. 16.18 Peter's name is Πέτρος, while the 'rock' is Πέτρα. Many have assumed an Aramaic substratum to the text whereby the same Aramaic term ﬤ'פּﬡ underlies both Greek words. An alternate view posits that while ﬤ'פּﬡ lies behind Πέτρα, a différent Aramaic term was most likely rendered by Πέτρα. This article examines the Aramaic and Syriac évidence afresh and at the same time proposes a methodology for studying such issues. It concludes that ﬤ'פּﬡ is a strong candidate for an original Aramaic background for Πέτρα.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing in the Treatment of Panic Disorder With Agoraphobia
Authors: Fernandez Isabel , Faretta Elisa
Published: January 2007

This article describes a comprehensive treatment of a case of panic disorder with agoraphobia. A thorough history taking revealed that experiential contributors had a pivotal role in the development of the condition. Therefore, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) was used to address early traumatic events as well as the present stimuli that caused disturbance and had maintained symptomatology for the past 12 years. Although the client's symptoms were resolved after 15 sessions, EMDR was also effective in addressing future behaviors and resolving anticipatory anxiety. During EMDR processing, the client demonstrated emotional and cognitive changes consistent with trauma resolution, insight, and personal growth. The client gradually enacted functional new behaviors spontaneously as treatment unfolded. The therapeutic process and the targets are described in detail.
Surprise in the Adnexa
Authors: Sallee Kimberly
Published: January 2007

Sonography is a quick, easy, and inexpensive medical test to determine the etiology of pain in a first-trimester pregnancy. Occasionally, sonograms of early pregnancies do not give an accurate picture, and ectopic pregnancies are missed. Some of the reasons for missed ectopics may include time constraints, staff shortages, poor patient history, misleading textbook information, or orders for a limited examination. A limited examination may comprise only a transvaginal sonogram, and a transabdominal sonogram is not performed. Limited examinations minimize exploration of the area outside the uterus. Sometimes, when an intrauterine gestation is found, the sonogram is considered completed, and a report of an intrauterine pregnancy is given. Investigation of the area outside the uterus is not performed, and the chances of a missed ectopic increases. This case study addresses the occurrence of a heterotopic multifetal gestation. This is an intrauterine gestation combined with an ectopic gestation, sometimes referred to as a combined pregnancy.
OEIS Complex: A Case Report
Authors: Yang Feixue , Henningsen Charlotte , Fuentes Armando
Published: January 2007

OEIS complex describes a combination of birth defects, including omphalocele, extrophy of the bladder, imperforate anus, and spinal defects. OEIS complex involves abnormalities of almost every body system and shows variability from case to case. The etiology of OEIS complex is thought to be multifactorial. The prenatal diagnosis of OEIS complex is difficult; however, the diagnosis of OEIS mainly relies on sonographic findings. The major sonographic findings include nonvisualization of the bladder, persistent cloaca, omphalocele, and myelomeningocele. Significantly increased maternal serum alphafetoprotein is also reported. Surgical intervention has improved the survival of patients born with OEIS complex; however, the success of these procedures cannot guarantee a good quality of life. The survivors may suffer with long-term psychosexual developmental difficulties.
Apatite-group minerals from nepheline syenite, Pilansberg alkaline complex, South Africa
Authors: Liferovich R. P. , Mitchell R. H.
Published: January 2007

The nepheline syenites of the Pilansberg alkaline complex (South Africa) have undergone extensive subsolidus equilibration and alteration with a deuteric Cl- and Na-rich fluid phase. Complex assemblages of secondary minerals result from the replacement of primary alummosilicates, rinkite, eudialyte and fluorapatite. The composition of apatite group minerals formed during these alteration processes reflects the Sr- and rare earth element (REE) content, Na/Cl ratio and pH of the deuteric fluids. Apatite-group minerals are observed to have formed in the following sequence: orthomagmatic fluorapatite; strontian britholite-(Ce); strontian fluorapatite; Sr-apatite; REE-rich Sr-apatite; Sr-Na-REE- rich minerals approaching the stoichiometry of belovite-(Ce) and deloneite-(Ce); britholite-(Ce). Increasing alkalinity of the deuteric fluids is reflected by increasing amounts of Sr replacing Ca in apatite and culminates in the formation of Sr apatite containing 62.1 wt.% SrO (∼4.17 a.p.f.u. Sr). Pilansberg apatite-group minerals form a near-complete solid solution between fluorapatite and a fluorine analogue of Sr apatite with limited solution towards belovite-(Ce), Si-rich belovite-(Ce) and strontian britholite-(Ce).
Factors governing the activation of adoptively transferred donor T cells infused after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation in the mouse
Authors: Durakovic Nadira , Radojcic Vedran , Skarica Mario , Bezak Karl B. , Powell Jonathan D. , Fuchs Ephraim J. , Luznik Leo
Published: January 2007

Murine models of bone marrow transplantation were used to study the mechanisms governing the activation of donor lymphocyte infusions (DLIs) manifesting as lymphohematopoietic graft-versus-host (LH-GVH) and graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) reactivities. We demonstrate here that established mixed chimerism influences the potency of DLI-mediated alloreactivity only in the MHC-mismatched but not MHC-matched setting. In the MHC-matched setting, high levels (≥ 40%) of residual host chimerism correlated negatively with DLI-mediated alloreactivity irrespective of the timing of their administration, the donor's previous sensitization to host antigens, or the level of residual host APCs. In vivo administration of Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands was required to maximize DLI-mediated LH-GVH and GVL reactivities in chimeras with low levels (≤ 15%) of residual host chimerism. In contrast, coadministration of DLI with antigen-presenting cell (APC) activators was insufficient to augment their LH-GVH response in the presence of high levels of host chimerism unless the host's T cells were transiently depleted. Together, these results show the cardinal influence of donor-host incompatibility on DLI-mediated GVH responses and suggest that in MHC-matched chimeras, the induction of optimal alloreactivity requires not only donor T cells and host APCs but also TLR ligands and in the presence of high levels of host chimerism depletion of host T cells.
Molecular surveillance of drug-resistance associated mutations of Plasmodium falciparum in south-west Tanzania
Authors: Schönfeld Mirjam , Barreto Miranda Isabel , Schunk Mirjam , Maduhu Ibrahim , Maboko Leonard , Hoelscher Michael , Berens-Riha Nicole , Kitua Andrew , Löscher Thomas
Published: January 2007

Background

In Tanzania, drug-resistant malaria parasites are an increasing public health concern. Because of widespread chloroquine (CQ) resistance Tanzania changed its first line treatment recommendations for uncomplicated malaria from CQ to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) in 2001. Loss of SP sensitivity is progressing rapidly. SP resistance is associated with mutations in the dihydrofolate reductase (pfdhfr) and dihydropteroate synthase (pfdhps) genes.

Methods

In samples from 86 patients with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria from Mbeya and Matema, Mbeya region, south-western Tanzania, the occurrence of mutations was investigated in the pfcrt and pfmdr1 genes which are associated with CQ resistance and in pfdhfr and pfdhps, conferring SP resistance, as well in cytb which is linked to resistance to atovaquone.

Results

Pfcrt T76 occurs in 50% and pfmdr1 Y86 in 51.7%. Pfdhfr triple mutations coexisting with pfdhps double mutations were detected in 64.3% of the P. falciparum isolates. This quintuple mutation is seen as a possible predictive molecular marker for SP treatment failure. Mutations of the cytb gene were not detected.

Conclusion

These findings of a high prevalence of mutations conferring SP resistance correspond to data of in vivo SP efficacy studies in other regions of Tanzania and underline the recommendation of changing first-line treatment to artemisinin-based combination therapy.
Intensity modulated radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer: rigid compliance to dose-volume constraints as a warranty of acceptable toxicity?
Authors: Chen Michael J , Weltman Eduardo , Hanriot Rodrigo M , Luz Fábio P , Cecílio Paulo J , da Cruz José C , Moreira Frederico R , Santos Adriana S , Martins Lidiane C , Nadalin Wladmir
Published: January 2007

Background

To report the toxicity after intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for patients with localized prostate cancer, as a sole treatment or after radical prostatectomy.

Methods

Between August 2001 and December 2003, 132 patients with prostate cancer were treated with IMRT and 125 were evaluable to acute and late toxicity analysis, after a minimum follow-up time of one year. Clinical and treatment data, including normal tissue dose-volume histogram (DVH) constraints, were reviewed. Gastro-intestinal (GI) and genito-urinary (GU) signs and symptoms were evaluated according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) toxicity scales. Median prescribed dose was 76 Gy. Median follow-up time was of 26.1 months.

Results

From the 125 patients, 73 (58.4%) presented acute Grade 1 or Grade 2 GI and 97 (77.2%) presented acute Grade 1 or Grade 2 GU toxicity. Grade 3 GI acute toxicity occurred in only 2 patients (1.6%) and Grade 3 GU acute toxicity in only 3 patients (2.4%). Regarding Grade 1 and 2 late toxicity, 26 patients (20.8%) and 21 patients (16.8%) presented GI and GU toxicity, respectively. Grade 2 GI late toxicity occurred in 6 patients (4.8%) and Grade 2 GU late toxicity in 4 patients (3.2%). None patient presented any Grade 3 or higher late toxicity. Non-conformity to DVH constraints occurred in only 11.2% of treatment plans. On univariate analysis, no significant risk factor was identified for Grade 2 GI late toxicity, but mean dose delivered to the PTV was associated to higher Grade 2 GU late toxicity (p = 0.042).

Conclusion

IMRT is a well tolerable technique for routine treatment of localized prostate cancer, with short and medium-term acceptable toxicity profiles. According to the data presented here, rigid compliance to DHV constraints might prevent higher incidences of normal tissue complication.
Signaling requirements for translocation of P-Rex1, a key Rac2 exchange factor involved in chemoattractant-stimulated human neutrophil function
Authors: Zhao Tieming , Nalbant Perihan , Hoshino Mikio , Dong Xuemei , Wu Dianqing , Bokoch Gary M
Published: January 2007

PI 3,4,5-trisphosphate [PI(3,4,5)P3; PIP3]-dependent Rac exchanger 1 (P-Rex1) is a Rac-specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor abundant in neutrophils and myeloid cells. As a selective catalyst for Rac2 activation, P-Rex1 serves as an important regulator of human neutrophil NADPH oxidase activity and chemotaxis in response to a variety of extracellular stimuli. The exchange activity of P-Rex1 is synergistically activated by the binding of PIP3and βγ subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins in vitro, suggesting that the association of P-Rex1 with membranes is a prerequisite for cellular activation. However, the spatial regulation of endogenous P-Rex1 has not been well defined, particularly in human neutrophils activated through G protein-coupled receptors. Upon stimulation of neutrophil chemoattractant receptors, we observed that P-Rex1 translocated from cytoplasm to the leading edge of polarized cells in a G protein βγ subunit- and PIP3-dependent manner, where it colocalized with F-actin and its substrate, Rac2. Redistribution of P-Rex1 to the leading edge was also dependent on tyrosine kinase activity and was modulated by cell adhesion. Furthermore, we observed that activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA), which phosphorylates and inactivates P-Rex1, inhibited its translocation. Our data indicate that endogenous P-Rex1 translocates to areas of Rac2 and cytoskeletal activation at the leading edge in response to chemoattractant stimuli in human neutrophils and that this translocation can be negatively modulated by activation of PKA and by cell adhesion.
Wind Energy Conversion Efficiency Limit
Authors: Lam Gabriel C. K.
Published: January 2007

The momentum analysis of Sharpe [3] is considered further. It is shown that the maximum wind energy conversion efficiency limit, or the Betz limit of 59.3%, deduced from conventional actuator disc theory is the limiting stationary maximum value as wind turbine rotor speed approaches infinity and rotor outlet swirl approaches zero. Theoretically, solution of the governing equations indicates 100% conversion efficiency could be possible with suitable wind turbine design and without wake limitations for all tip-speed ratios. Analogous to the thermodynamics laws for heat engines and similar to a Pelton wheel with hydro power, the wind turbine efficiency is not limited by the laws of fluid mechanics but by physical constraints only. Low tip-speed ratio would have greater prospects in achieving higher conversion efficiency in practice. Though the set of equations derived in the present technical note has assumed uniform bound circulation along the blade span, the same approach can be used for determination of optimum conditions for other blade designs or using other assumptions.