bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managed Care for Medicare-Medicaid Dual Eligibles: Appropriateness, Availability, Payment, and Policy
Authors: Miller Edward Alan , Weissert William G.
Published: November 2004

The bifurcation of responsibility for caring for dual eligibles has helped create a fragmented service delivery system, fraught with administrative inefficiencies, barriers to more effective care, and incentives to shift costs. To better serve this population, the federal government and several states have developed a number of pilot initiatives that promote integration by relying on capitated managed care. However, evidence suggests that this approach may be plagued by certain problems, including lack of experience with persons who are chronically ill, incentives to under provide care, favorable selection, limited plan availability, and mixed outcome and satisfaction performance. Although case-managed approaches pursue integration without capitation, they must typically rely on voluntary provider cooperation to be successful, something that is difficult to achieve. Given the recent nature of most integration initiatives, it is recommended that policy makers continue to promote innovation in each of the following areas: care coordination, administration, provider payment, plan participation, and evaluation.
The Unequal Availability of Affordable Assisted Living Units in Florida’s Counties
Authors: Golant Stephen M. , Salmon Jennifer R.
Published: November 2004

The supply of affordable assisted living facilities (ALFs) is now insufficient to meet the demands of low-income, frail older persons. This gap between demand and supply is much more apparent in some locations than others. This article uses various measures of locational inequality to assess the extent to which counties in Florida have less than their fair share of ALFs, particularly in comparison to the locations of Medicaid nursing home beds. It employs least squares regression models to identify the demographic and economic antecedents underlying the variation in the number and prevalence of affordable ALF units and Medicaid nursing home beds. The findings show that a large percentage of the older population who are vulnerable are underserved by affordable ALFs and that it is possible to explain adequately the variation in the number but not the unequal prevalence of affordable ALF units in Florida’s counties.
Differences in the Structure of Depression Among Older Asian Indian Immigrants in the United States
Authors: Diwan Sadhna , Jonnalagadda Satya S. , Gupta Rashmi
Published: November 2004

This study examines the validity of the short form (eight items) Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D), as a screening tool for mental health problems among older immigrants who are minorities. The factor structure of the CES-D is examined empirically using two samples of older Asian Indian immigrants in the United States: the first sample of 226 English speakers, and the second sample of 114 Gujarati speakers residing in Atlanta, Georgia. The CES-D, administered via telephone interviews, showed high internal consistency. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses for the English speaking sample showed two factors indicating positive and negative affect, whereas the Gujarati-speaking sample yielded a unidimensional factor where depression was not differentiated, suggesting that depression may be conceptualized and manifested differently among diverse groups of older immigrants. Culturally competent practice with older adults should include an awareness of these within-group differences and their implications for practice in diverse groups of older immigrants.
Resident Satisfaction in a Transitional Care Unit
Authors: Castle Nicholas G.
Published: November 2004

This article presents an instrument used to measure resident satisfaction in a transitional care unit (TCU) and examines the role of potential confounding factors in assessing satisfaction. The confounding factors examined are perceived physical health status, cognitive status, pain, length of stay, and age. Satisfaction data were self-reported by TCU residents during 1998 and 1999. Self-reported questions of general physical health and pain taken from the Short Form 36 Health Survey were used along with an audit of medical records to identify the residents’cognitive status, age, and length of stay. The instrument is first shown to be psychometrically sound. Second, with careful surveying techniques, it is shown that response rates can be very high. Third, it is shown that some of the confounders examined have practical significance when interpreting satisfaction information. Several of these variables were significantly associated with both overall satisfaction and individual dimensions of satisfaction within the survey.
Culture, Ethnicity, and Caregiver Stress Among Puerto Ricans
Authors: Ramos Blanca M.
Published: November 2004

This study explored the stress process in a sample of Puerto Ricans (N = 68) caring for older relatives and examined the caregiver role in light of ethnocultural variables. Focus groups were conducted in Spanish in community settings. Six broad, open-ended questions asked about (a) caregiving stressors, (b) appraisal of these stressors, and (c) coping. Participants were primarily women of low socioeconomic status and acculturation. Ethnocultural factors appeared to shape the qualitative nature of the stress process. The practice of traditional familism norms of filial responsibility appeared to be especially challenging, given the multiple stressors associated with ethnic minority status. The role of the family as a support system was not clear. Fatalism and religion appeared to greatly influence appraisal and coping. Catholic and Pentecostal differences were noted in attitudes about stressors and coping strategies. Suggestions for applying findings to practice are presented. Implications for research and policy are discussed.
Communicative Action and the Network Society
Authors: Verma Niraj , Shin HaeRan
Published: November 2004

How might Castells’s theory of the network society influence planning? The authors argue that while there is much to learn from Castells, the idea of a network society does not warrant a fundamental revision of planning theory. Rather, it reinforces the scope and relevance of Habermasian communicative action and American pragmatism, ideas that are already recognized within planning.
Taking Pictures in the City
Authors: Krieger Martin H.
Published: November 2004

Planners, and teachers and students of planning, ought systematically to document ordinary urban phenomena: store-front churches, vernacular visual merchandising, industry,... Careful archiving and indexing is crucial. For long-lasting records, photographic film still provides the best medium for still photographs; digital video and audio are probably best for motion pictures and sound.
Methodology Is Destiny: The Effect of Survey Prompts on Reported Levels of Giving and Volunteering
Authors: Rooney Patrick , Steinberg Kathryn , Schervish Paul G.
Published: November 2004

This article extends earlier methodological tests of giving and volunteering in Indiana to a large (N = 4,200) cross-sectional sample collected in the United States in the fall of 2001. The authors find that the results are consistent with those found in the earlier analyses, namely, that longer, more detailed prompts led respondents to recall giving and volunteering at higher incidence rates (proportion donating at all or volunteering at all) and at higher levels (dollars given or hours volunteered) than when compared to survey methodologies with fewer prompts.
Civic Service in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Patel Leila , Wilson Theresa
Published: November 2004

Civic service in Sub-Saharan Africa reflects the complex social, cultural, economic, and political history of the region in a changing global world marked by increasing risks to human security and development. National and international service including local, informal, and community-based service continues to remain prominent and is an appropriate response to the intractable development issues facing these societies. New initiatives to address the marginalization of Africa from the new information economy and society will need to keep human development on the agenda. Civic service can make a significant contribution to mobilizing local and international efforts in partnership with governments and civil society. Future research and policy should address the institutional impediments to service, develop research capacity to strengthen a scholarship of civic engagement, and conceive of service as part of a broader social development strategy.
Civic Service in South Asia: A Case Study of Nepal
Authors: Yadama Gautam N. , Messerschmidt Don
Published: November 2004

In this article, the authors elaborate on why they think a democracy context matters for national service programs, provide a brief overview of national service programs in South Asia, and present a case study of Nepal’s experience with national service. In particular, the authors examine the rise and fall of the government-sponsored National Development Service and its relationship to democratic culture. The case of national service in Nepal underscores the importance of examining the social and political context of national service. Service programs can be a source of widespread societal change and a vehicle for expressing discontent with the status quo. If a significant consequence of civic service is to foster democratic citizenship, then as the authors’ case suggests, it is necessary to examine the nature and life course of service programs.
Civic Service in South America
Authors: Tapia María Nieves
Published: November 2004

This article explores the history and current forms of civic service in South America. The term is fraught with translation difficulty, but the operational forms are consistent. Service learning is by far the most prevalent form of service in South America and is discussed in detail. Other forms of service are briefly discussed, including national and international service. All forms of service are placed in historical context and viewed through an institutional lens. It is suggested that service learning is the most prevalent form of service because educational institutions are trusted. Implications for research are discussed, such as how to associate civic service with common concepts, and next steps regarding descriptive research.
Understanding Women’s Lived Experiences With Infertility: Five Short Stories
Authors: Parry Diana C.
Published: November 2004

The following five representations are part of a collection of stories written about women’s lived experiences with infertility in North America, a pronatalist society. Within a pronatalist society, women struggling with infertility face profound social and political pressure to define themselves as unsuccessful childbearing objects. The collection of stories included in this text is about the various meanings the women made, the constructions they developed, and the experiences they encountered with infertility. The use of short stories was selected to give voice to women’s experiences with infertility and to assert that knowing and knowledge about infertility must begin with those who have experienced these struggles. Moreover, the use of narratives draws on earlier work published in this journal and contributes to the dialogue of alternative forms of representation fostered by Qualitative Inquiry.
Sensuous Ethnography, African Persuasions, and Social Knowledge
Authors: Stoller Paul
Published: November 2004

This article suggests that transnational complexities require a more sensuous approach to ethnography, an approach in which local epistemologies and sensory regimes are more fully explored. More specific, the purpose of this article is to suggest that sensuous descriptions improve not only the clarity and force of ethnographic representations but also the social analysis of power relations-in-the-world. African states, as the author attempts to demonstrate, have been particularly adept at manipulating sensory regimes to establish and reinforce their power. In the end, the author concludes that a fully sensuous scholarship not only propels social scientists to reconsider the analysis of power-in-the-world but also compels them to rethink their scholarly being-in-the-world.
Distinct roles for donor- and host-derived antigen-presenting cells and costimulatory molecules in murine chronic graft-versus-host disease: requirements depend on target organ
Authors: Anderson Britt E. , McNiff Jennifer M. , Jain Dhanpat , Blazar Bruce R. , Shlomchik Warren D. , Shlomchik Mark J.
Published: November 2004

The application of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) is limited by graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). GVHD can be divided into acute and chronic forms that likely have different requirements for initiation and pathogenesis mechanisms. In prior studies we demonstrated that residual host antigen-presenting cells (APCs) were required to initiate acute GVHD (aGVHD) mediated by CD8 T cells. In contrast, here we demonstrate that either donor or host APCs can initiate CD4-mediated GVHD in a model that has features of chronic GVHD (cGVHD). Both donor and host APCs must provide CD80/86-dependent costimulation to elicit maximal cGVHD, and there is no GVHD when both donor and host lack CD80/86. Finally, we were surprised to find that, although either donor or host APCs are sufficient to stimulate skin cGVHD, donor APCs play a dominant role in intestinal cGVHD. Both CD40 and CD80/86 are critical for donor APC function in intestinal cGVHD, but only CD80/86 is required for skin cGVHD. Thus, there are target-tissue–specific differences in APC requirements. These results identify differences in APC requirements between CD8-mediated aGVHD and CD4-mediated cGVHD. They further highlight donor APCs as additional targets for GVHD therapy.
Thrombin induces endocytosis of endoglin and type-II TGF-β receptor and down-regulation of TGF-β signaling in endothelial cells
Authors: Tang Hua , Low Brad , Rutherford Stacey A. , Hao Qin
Published: November 2004

Thrombin activates protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) on endothelial cells (ECs) and is critical for angiogenesis and vascular development. However, the mechanism underlying the proangiogenic effect of thrombin has not been elucidated yet. Here, we report the discovery of a novel functional link between thrombin-PAR1 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathways. We showed that thrombin via PAR1 induced the internalization of endoglin and type-II TGF-β receptor (TβRII) but not type-I receptors in human ECs. This effect was mediated by protein kinase C-ζ (PKC-ζ) since specific inhibition of PKC-ζ caused an aggregation of endoglin or TβRII on cell surface and blocked their internalization by thrombin. Furthermore, acute and long-term pretreatment of ECs with thrombin or PAR1 peptide agonist suppressed the TGF-β–induced serine phosphorylation of Smad2, a critical mediator of TGF-β signaling. Moreover, activation of PAR1 led to a profound and spread cytosolic clustering formation of Smad2/3 and markedly prevented Smad2/3 nuclear translocation evoked by TGF-β1. Since TGF-β plays a crucial role in the resolution phase of angiogenesis, the down-regulation of TGF-β signaling by thrombin-PAR1 pathway may provide a new insight into the mechanism of the proangiogenic effect of thrombin.
Improvement of alignment accuracy utilizing sequentially conserved motifs
Authors: Chakrabarti Saikat , Bhardwaj Nitin , Anand Prem A , Sowdhamini Ramanathan
Published: November 2004

Background

Multiple sequence alignment algorithms are very important tools in molecular biology today. Accurate alignment of proteins is central to several areas such as homology modelling, docking studies, understanding evolutionary trends and study of structure-function relationships. In recent times, improvement of existing progressing programs and implementation of new iterative algorithms have made a significant change in this field.

Results

We report an alignment algorithm that combines progressive dynamic algorithm, local substructure alignment and iterative refinement to achieve an improved, user-interactive tool. Large-scale benchmarking studies show that this FMALIGN server produces alignments that, aside from preservation of functional and structural conservation, have accuracy comparable to other popular multiple alignment programs.

Conclusions

The FMALIGN server allows the user to fix conserved regions in equivalent position in the alignment thereby reducing the chance of global misalignment to a great extent. FMALIGN is available at http://caps.ncbs.res.in/FMALIGN/Home.html
The Drosophila methyl-DNA binding protein MBD2/3 interacts with the NuRD complex via p55 and MI-2
Authors: Marhold Joachim , Brehm Alexander , Kramer Katja
Published: November 2004

Background

Methyl-DNA binding proteins help to translate epigenetic information encoded by DNA methylation into covalent histone modifications. MBD2/3 is the only candidate gene in the Drosophila genome with extended homologies to mammalian MBD2 and MBD3 proteins, which represent a co-repressor and an integral component of the N ucleosome R emodelling and D eacetylase (NuRD) complex, respectively. An association of Drosophila MBD2/3 with the Drosophila NuRD complex has been suggested previously. We have now analyzed the molecular interactions between MBD2/3 and the NuRD complex in greater detail.

Results

The two MBD2/3 isoforms precisely cofractionated with NuRD proteins during gel filtration of extracts derived from early and late embryos. In addition, we demonstrate that MBD2/3 forms multimers, and engages in specific interactions with the p55 and MI-2 subunits of the Drosophila NuRD complex.

Conclusion

Our data provide novel insights into the association between Drosophila MBD2/3 and NuRD proteins. Additionally, this work provides a first analysis of the architecture of the Drosophila NuRD complex.
Validity of the Clock Drawing Test in predicting reports of driving problems in the elderly
Authors: Diegelman Nathan M , Gilbertson Alan D , Moore Jeffrey L , Banou Evangelia , Meager Michael R
Published: November 2004

Background

This study examined the use of the Folstein Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE) and the Clock Drawing Test (CDT) in predicting retrospective reports of driving problems among the elderly. The utility of existing scoring systems for the CDT was also examined.

Methods

Archival chart records of 325 patients of a geriatric outpatient clinic were reviewed, of which 162 had CDT results (including original clock drawings). T-test, correlation, and regression procedures were used to analyze the data.

Results

Both CDT and MMSE scores were significantly worse among non-drivers than individuals who were currently or recently driving. Among current or recent drivers, scores on both instruments correlated significantly with the total number of reported accidents or near misses, although the magnitude of the respective correlations was small. Only MMSE scores, however, significantly predicted whether or not any accidents or near misses were reported at all. Neither MMSE nor CDT scores predicted unique variance in the regressions.

Conclusions

The overall results suggest that both the MMSE and CDT have limited utility as potential indicators of driving problems in the elderly. The demonstrated predictive power for these instruments appears to be redundant, such that both appear to assess general cognitive function versus more specific abilities. Furthermore, the lack of robust prediction suggests that neither are sufficient to serve as stand-alone instruments on which to solely base decisions of driving capacity. Rather, individuals who evidence impairment should be provided a more thorough and comprehensive assessment than can be obtained through screening tools.
Comparative evaluation of diode laser versus argon laser photocoagulation in patients with central serous retinopathy: A pilot, randomized controlled trial [ISRCTN84128484]
Authors: Verma Lalit , Sinha Rajesh , Venkatesh Pradeep , Tewari HK
Published: November 2004

Background

To evaluate the efficacy of diode laser photocoagulation in patients with central serous retinopathy (CSR) and to compare it with the effects of argon green laser.

Methods

Thirty patients with type 1 unilateral CSR were enrolled and evaluated on parameters like best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy, amsler grid for recording scotoma and metamorphopsia, contrast sensitivity using Cambridge low contrast gratings and fluorescein angiography to determine the site of leakage.

Patients were randomly assigned into 2 groups according to the statistical random table using sequence generation. In Group 1 (n = 15), diode laser (810 nm) photocoagulation was performed at the site of leakage while in Group 2 (n = 15), eyes were treated with argon green laser (514 nm) using the same laser parameters. Patients were followed up at 4, 8 and 12 weeks after laser.

Results

The mean BCVA in group 1 improved from a pre-laser decimal value of 0.29 ± 0.14 to 0.84 ± 0.23 at 4 weeks and 1.06 ± 0.09 at 12 weeks following laser. In group 2, the same improved from 0.32 ± 0.16 to 0.67 ± 0.18 at 4 weeks and 0.98 ± 0.14 at 12 weeks following laser. The improvement in BCVA was significantly better in group 1 (p < 0.0001) at 4 weeks. At 4 weeks following laser, all the patients in group1 were free of scotoma while 6 patients in group 2 had residual scotoma (p < 0.05). The mean contrast sensitivity in group 1 improved from pre-laser value of 98.4 ± 24.77 to 231.33 ± 48.97 at 4 weeks and 306.00 ± 46.57 at 12 weeks following laser. In group 2, the same improved from 130.66 ± 31.95 to 190.66 ± 23.44 at 4 weeks and 215.33 ± 23.25 at 12 weeks. On comparative evaluation, a significantly better (p < 0.001) improvement was noted in group 1.

Conclusion

Diode laser may be a better alternative to argon green laser whenever laser treatment becomes indicated in patients with central serous retinopathy in terms of faster visual rehabilitation and better contrast sensitivity. In addition, diode laser also has the well-recognized ergonomic and economic advantages.
Pudendal nerve decompression in perineology : a case series
Authors: Beco Jacques , Climov Daniela , Bex Michèle
Published: November 2004

Background

Perineodynia (vulvodynia, perineal pain, proctalgia), anal and urinary incontinence are the main symptoms of the pudendal canal syndrome (PCS) or entrapment of the pudendal nerve. The first aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of bilateral pudendal nerve decompression (PND) on the symptoms of the PCS, on three clinical signs (abnormal sensibility, painful Alcock's canal, painful "skin rolling test") and on two neurophysiological tests: electromyography (EMG) and pudendal nerve terminal motor latencies (PNTML). The second aim was to study the clinical value of the aforementioned clinical signs in the diagnosis of PCS.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, the studied sample comprised 74 female patients who underwent a bilateral PND between 1995 and 2002. To accomplish the first aim, the patients sample was compared before and at least one year after surgery by means of descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing. The second aim was achieved by means of a statistical comparison between the patient's group before the operation and a control group of 82 women without any of the following signs: prolapse, anal incontinence, perineodynia, dyschesia and history of pelvi-perineal surgery.

Results

When bilateral PND was the only procedure done to treat the symptoms, the cure rates of perineodynia, anal incontinence and urinary incontinence were 8/14, 4/5 and 3/5, respectively. The frequency of the three clinical signs was significantly reduced. There was a significant reduction of anal and perineal PNTML and a significant increase of anal richness on EMG. The Odd Ratio of the three clinical signs in the diagnosis of PCS was 16,97 (95% CI = 4,68 – 61,51).

Conclusion

This study suggests that bilateral PND can treat perineodynia, anal and urinary incontinence. The three clinical signs of PCS seem to be efficient to suspect this diagnosis. There is a need for further studies to confirm these preliminary results.
Reticulate sympatric speciation in Cameroonian crater lake cichlids
Authors: Schliewen Ulrich K , Klee Barbara
Published: November 2004

Background

Traditionally the rapid origin of megadiverse species flocks of extremely closely related species is explained by the combinatory action of three factors: Disruptive natural selection, disruptive sexual selection and partial isolation by distance. However, recent empirical data and theoretical advances suggest that the diversity of complex species assemblages is based at least partially on the hybridization of numerous ancestral allopatric lineages that formed hybrids upon invasion of new environments. That reticulate speciation within species flocks may occur under sympatric conditions after the primary formation of species has been proposed but not been tested critically.

Results

We reconstructed the phylogeny of a complex cichlid species flock confined to the tiny Cameroonian crater lake Barombi Mbo using both mitochondrial and nuclear (AFLP) data. The nuclear phylogeny confirms previous findings which suggested the monophyly and sympatric origin of the flock. However, discordant intra-flock phylogenies reconstructed from mitochondrial and nuclear data suggest strongly that secondary hybridization among lineages that primarily diverged under sympatric conditions had occurred. Using canonical phylogenetic ordination and tree-based tests we infer that hybridization of two ancient lineages resulted in the formation of a new and ecologically highly distinct species, Pungu maclareni.

Conclusions

Our findings show that sympatric hybrid speciation is able to contribute significantly to the evolution of complex species assemblages even without the prior formation of hybrids derived from allopatrically differentiated lineages.
The Society for Clinical Trials supports United States legislation mandating trials registration
Authors: Dickersin Kay , Davis Barry R , Dixon Dennis O , George Stephen L , Hawkins Barbara S , Lachin John , Peduzzig Peter , Pocock Stuart
Published: November 2004

The official position of the Society for Clinical Trials is to support legislation in the United States and internationally that mandates registration of all controlled clinicals trials at or before enrollment of the first participant. The major trial sponsor would be responsible for ensuring contribution of trial information. The mechanism for registering trials would be through research ethics review boards, and registration would be required for ethics approval and before trial initiation. Standardized data and a unique identification number would be available for each registered trial.
Perspectives, Preferences, Care Practices, and Outcomes Among Older and Middle-Aged Patients With Late-Stage Cancer
Authors: Rose Julia Hannum , O'Toole Elizabeth E. , Dawson Neal V. , Lawrence Renee , Gurley Diana , Thomas Charles , Hamel Mary Beth , Cohen Harvey J.
Published: November 2004

Purpose

To evaluate relationships among physician and cancer patient survival estimates, patients' perceived quality of life, care preferences, and outcomes, and how they vary across middle-aged and older patient groups.

Patients and Methods

Subjects were from the Study to Understand Prognoses and Preferences for Risks of Treatments (SUPPORT) prospective cohort studied in five US teaching hospitals (from 1989 to 1994), and included 720 middle-aged (45 to 64 years) and 696 older (≥ 65 years) patients receiving care for advanced cancer. Perspectives were assessed in physician and patient/surrogate interviews; care practices and outcomes were determined from hospital records and the National Death Index. General linear models were used within age groups to obtain adjusted estimates.

Results

Although most patients had treatment goals to relieve pain, treatment preferences and care practices were linked only in the older group. For older patients, preference for life-extending treatment was associated with more therapeutic interventions and more documented discussions; cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) preference was linked to more therapeutic interventions and longer survival. For middle-aged patients, better perceived quality of life was associated with preferring CPR. In both groups, patients' higher survival estimates were associated with preferences for life-prolonging treatment and CPR; physicians' higher survival estimates were associated with patients' preferences for CPR, fewer documented treatment limitation discussions about care, and actual 6-month survival. More discussions were associated with readmissions and earlier death. More aggressive care was not related to outcomes.

Conclusion

Fewer older patients preferred CPR or life-prolonging treatments. Although older patients’ goals for aggressive treatment were related to care, this was not so for middle-aged patients. Aggressive care was not related to prolonged life in either group.
Functional characterization of a mouse testicular olfactory receptor and its role in chemosensing and in regulation of sperm motility
Authors: Fukuda Nanaho , Yomogida Kentaro , Okabe Masaru , Touhara Kazushige
Published: November 2004

Although a subset of the olfactory receptor (OR) gene family is expressed in testis, neither their developmental profile nor their physiological functions have been fully characterized. Here, we show that MOR23 (a mouse OR expressed in the olfactory epithelium and testis) functions as a chemosensing receptor in mouse germ cells. In situ hybridization showed that MOR23 was expressed in round spermatids during stages VI-VIII of spermatogenesis. Lyral, a cognate ligand of MOR23, caused an increase in intracellular Ca2+ in a fraction of spermatogenic cells and spermatozoa. We also generated transgenic mice that express high levels of MOR23 in the testis and examined the response of their germ cells to lyral. The results provided evidence that lyral-induced Ca2+ increases were indeed mediated by MOR23. In a sperm accumulation assay, spermatozoa migrated towards an increasing gradient of lyral. Tracking and sperm flagellar analyses suggest that Ca2+ increases caused by MOR23 activation lead to modulation of flagellar configuration, resulting in chemotaxis. By contrast, a gradient of a cAMP analog or K8.6 solution, which elicit Ca2+ influx in spermatozoa, did not cause sperm accumulation, indicating that chemosensing and regulation of sperm motility was due to an OR-mediated local Ca2+ increase. The present studies indicate that mouse testicular ORs might play a role in chemoreception during sperm-egg communication and thereby regulate fertilization.
Ca2+-dependent and -independent mechanisms of calmodulin nuclear translocation
Authors: Thorogate Richard , Török Katalin
Published: November 2004

Translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus is a major response by calmodulin (CaM) to stimulation of cells by Ca2+. However, the mechanisms involved in this process are still controversial and both passive and facilitated diffusion have been put forward. We tested nuclear translocation mechanisms in electroporated HeLa cells, rat cortical neurons and glial cells using novel calmodulin and inhibitor peptide probes and confocal microscopy. Passive diffusion of calmodulin across the nuclear membrane was measured in conditions in which facilitated transport was blocked and was compared to that of a similarly sized fluorescein-labeled dextran. Wheat germ agglutinin, which blocks facilitated transport but not passive diffusion, inhibited the nuclear entry of both wild-type and Ca2+-binding-deficient mutant calmodulin both in low and elevated [Ca2+]. Ca2+-dependent nuclear translocation was prevented by a membrane-permeant CaM inhibitor, the mTrp peptide, which indicated that it was specific to Ca2+/CaM. Diffusion of free CaM and Ca2+/CaM was considerably slower than the observed nuclear translocation by facilitated transport. Our data show that the majority of CaM nuclear entry occurred by facilitated mechanisms in all cell types examined, in part by a Ca2+-independent and in part by a Ca2+-dependent translocation mechanism.
Myosin 3A transgene expression produces abnormal actin filament bundles in transgenicXenopus laevisrod photoreceptors
Authors: Lin-Jones Jennifer , Parker Ed , Wu Mike , Dosé Andréa , Burnside Beth
Published: November 2004

Myo3A, a class III myosin, localizes to the distal (plus) ends of inner segment actin filament bundles that form the core of microvillus-like calycal processes encircling the base of the photoreceptor outer segment. To investigate Myo3A localization and function, we expressed green fluorescent protein-tagged bass Myo3A and related constructs in transgenic Xenopus rods using a modified opsin promoter. Tagged intact Myo3A localized to rod calycal processes, as previously reported for native bass Myo3A. Transgenic rods developed abnormally large calycal processes and subsequently degenerated. Modified Myo3A expression constructs demonstrated that calycal process localization required an active motor domain and the tail domain. Expressed tail domain alone localized to actin bundles along the entire inner segment length, rather than to the distal end. This tail domain localization required the conserved C-terminal domain (3THDII) previously shown to possess an actin-binding motif. Our findings suggest that Myo3A plays a role in the morphogenesis and maintenance of calycal processes of vertebrate photoreceptors.
PG-M/versican binds to P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 and mediates leukocyte aggregation
Authors: Zheng Peng-Sheng , Vais Dana , LaPierre David , Liang Yao-Yun , Lee Vivian , Yang Bing L. , Yang Burton B.
Published: November 2004

P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1), a glycoprotein expressed on the cell surface of leukocytes, binds to selectins and mediates leukocyte rolling on the vascular endothelium. Here we report that PSGL-1 binds to the C-terminal (G3 domain) of the extracellular proteoglycan PG-M/versican. Cells transfected with PSGL-1 or a shorter form containing the binding site, or cells expressing endogenous PSGL-1 aggregate in the presence of versican or G3 product. The aggregation appears to be induced by G3 multimers that bind to PSGL-1 and form a network. Endogenous versican and/or G3-containing fragments also bind to PSGL-1 in human plasma. Removal of the endogenous G3-containing fragments reduces the effect of plasma on leukocyte aggregation. Finally, the roles of G3-containing fragments in leukocyte aggregation were confirmed in a mouse model. Taken together, our results strongly support a physiologically relevant role for PSGL-1/versican binding and may have implications in the immunoresponse.
Optimal free-form shapes for holes in flat plates under uniaxial and biaxial loading
Authors: Burchill M , Heller M
Published: November 2004

This paper presents new and transferable design data defining precise optimal free-form shapes for holes in large and finite width plates under biaxial and uniaxial loading conditions respectively. An iterative two-dimensional finite element gradientless shape optimization procedure was used to obtain the optimal shapes, which offer the lowest possible stress concentration, subject to geometric constraints. Precise non-dimensional coordinates are given for a range of hole aspect ratios and are presented in tabular form that allows them to be easily used by designers. The optimal shapes were determined both with and without minimum radius of curvature constraints. Optimal shapes in large plates were found to provide up to a 28 per cent reduction in peak local stress over elliptical shapes of the same aspect ratio. For finite width plates the reduction in peak local stress was as high as 44 per cent. The results obtained are applicable to both the initial design of components with cut-outs and the shape reworking of existing components to remove damage.
A review of asymptotic procedures in stress analysis: Known solutions and their applications
Authors: Hills D A , Dini D , Magadu A , Korsunsky A. M
Published: November 2004

A comprehensive review is given of the origins of asymptotic procedures in stress analysis. Specifically, attention is focused on the use of fracture mechanics to characterize the elastic stress state ahead of a crack tip. Analogies are then drawn between this configuration and the stress state adjacent to the apex of a sharp V-notch. Extensions of these asymptotic procedures to bonded and slipping contacts are then considered and it is shown that although power order singularities may be obtained, the solutions are more complicated. Lastly, the use of nested asymptotic procedures are considered in order to account for a small but finite radius at the tip of cracks and notches or at the edge of slipping contacts.
Stress concentration factor and minimum hub length predictions for hollow tubes with internal and external flanges subjected to axial loading
Authors: Gowhari-Anaraki A. R , Hardy S J , Adibi-Asl R
Published: November 2004

This paper presents equations for estimating the elastic stress concentration factor Kt and minimum hub length δ in hollow tubes with internal and external flanges subjected to symmetrical axial pressure over the flat section of the flanges. Results from an extensive finite element study are supported by a limited number of experimental tests. The experimental Kt values are compared with data obtained numerically by the present authors and very good agreement was found between the two methods.

Minimum hub lengths, which are an important parameter for fabrication, have been derived on the basis of Saint Venant's principle. It is seen that Kt and δ follow similar trends, being functions of several geometric parameters. Kt and δ values for the internal and external flange-tube intersections contained in this paper cover the most common practical range of geometries.

The effect of tube wall radial pre-load (which can result from the compressive radial interface pressure established in the shrink-fitting process, compressive radial residual stress due to the autofrettage process or any other reinforcing process) on Kt and δ has also been studied. Furthermore, the effect of eccentric loading has been studied, using an experimental approach with one geometry.

The extensive range of Kt and δ values obtained from the analyses is used to obtain useful prediction equations, using a statistical multiple non-linear regression model and a high level of accuracy is demonstrated. Finally, a direct relationship between elastic stress concentration factor, which is readily available, and minimum hub length, which usually requires a complex numerical analysis, is provided.
Thickness and multi-axial stress creep rupture criteria of the Type IV component of a ferritic steel weld
Authors: Hayhurst R J , Vakili-Tahami F , Mustata R , Hayhurst D. R
Published: November 2004

The paper summarizes previously derived constitutive parameters for temperatures of 575, 590, 600, 620 and 640°C. Values of the multi-axial stress rupture parameter, v, are reviewed and recorded. This constitutive parameter set is used to determine the thickness of the Type IV material zone (0.7 mm). Values of Type IV multi-axial stress rupture parameter v are determined for a wide range of butt-welded pipe and cross-welded uni-axial specimens, and an interpolation equation is derived in terms of temperatures and stress level. Finally, continuum damage mechanics (CDM) analyses are performed for pipes and cross-welded testpieces, which include a coarse-grained heat-affected zone (CG-HAZ). It is shown that the constitutive parameter set, which corresponds to a minimum creep rate ratio of 1/2.5, with respect to the parent material, gives accurate predictions of lifetimes and damage distributions.
A shrink-fit problem between an eccentric and a solid of hollow shaft annulus
Authors: Videnic T , Kosel F
Published: November 2004

The paper presents an analytical solution of a shrink-fit problem between an eccentric and a centric circular annulus in the elastic domain. It is assumed that the material constants for both elements are the same and that a plane stress or plane strain state occurs in both annuli. The problem is solved using complex variable functions, where conformal mapping of the centric circular annulus to the eccentric one can be used. Elements of the stress tensor and displacement vector in both annuli are written in closed and finite form.
Design of a milling cutter for a novel three-lobe arc-cycloidal helical rotor
Authors: Yao L , Ye Z , Cai H , Dai J S
Published: November 2004

This paper focuses on the design of a milling cutter for machining the arc-cycloidal helical rotor of a Roots blower. The milling cutter is developed on the basis of a novel rotor of a Roots blower which consists of both concave and convex arcs and a cycloidal curve in the transversal section. The geometric analysis of the transverse section and the helical tooth profile for the proposed rotor are presented. The paper reveals the contact characteristics between the cutter and the rotor blank being machined and derives the normal vectors of three different tooth sections. The paper further develops equations of the contact line for the conjugate motion of the cutter and the rotor blank and presents a design methodology of the milling cutter. The interference in the machining process is then investigated and numerical results are produced. The results from the analysis demonstrate that there is no interference in the machining using the developed cutter. The developed cutter is then demonstrated in the end of this paper in machining the novel arc-cycloidal helical rotor with three lobes.
Finite element analysis of belt skew caused by angular misalignment of rollers
Authors: Cheng H , Yoshida K , Yanabe S
Published: November 2004

In machines that handle flexible media with flat belts, it is necessary to prevent belt skew for the machines to operate at higher precision and maximum efficiency. However, the skewing mechanism has not yet been clarified. Therefore, in order to establish a method that could be used to analyse the skew of a flat belt, a simulation system is developed using a commercial finite element code (MARC). Also, the skew mechanism in two- and three-roller systems is also studied through simulations and clarified to show that the skew rate equals the spiral angle of the belt wrapping around the roller. Moreover, it is found that a steering roller that is set in an optimal position is needed to reduce belt skew efficiently. The analytical method and the findings from this study are useful in designing any flat-belt mechanism.
Dynamics of a spreader suspended by four flexible cables
Authors: Lee J-W , Kim D-H
Published: November 2004

This paper will investigate in detail three-dimensional equations of motion for spreaders. Spreaders, typically suspended by four parallel flexible cables, are widely used in transfer cranes at container terminals. As is well known, owing to the flexibility of the suspension cables, three-dimensional equations of motion of the spreader are hard to express in compact form. The equations of motion are derived through the approximation of the gravitational energy of the spreader and the elastic energy stored in suspension cables. The approximation is shown to be good enough in practical field operation ranges. The characteristics of the derived equations of motion are also investigated. Through computer simulations, the derived equations of motion are verified and some experiments are carried out to show the characteristics of spreader dynamics.
Mechanics of pressure-assisted injection forging of tubular components
Authors: Qin Y , Ma Y , Balendra R
Published: November 2004

Manufacture of tubular components by pressure-assisted injection forging has several advantages over other manufacturing processes. The research conducted previously demonstrates the feasibility of using the process to produce thick-walled tubular engineering components. To improve process-analysis efficiency and to promote engineering applications of the process, an analytical algorithm was developed on the basis of a study of the mechanics of the process. Compared with forming experiments and finite element (FE) simulations, the applied-force and stress requirements calculated using the algorithm are sufficiently accurate. Using the analytical algorithm and FE analysis procedure developed, predominant force and stress components of the process were analysed, which resulted in details of the process mechanics. This is useful information for future uses in process design and optimization.
Pharmacist Involvement in Primary Care Improves Hypertensive Patient Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Sookaneknun Phayom , Richards Robert ME , Sanguansermsri Jaratbhan , Teerasut Chai
Published: November 2004

BACKGROUND

The practice of pharmaceutical care in primary care settings in Thailand is currently not generally accepted.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of pharmacist involvement in treatment with hypertensive patients in primary care settings.

METHODS

The treatment objective was to stabilize the blood pressure (BP) of hypertensive patients in accordance with the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure guidelines. Patients were randomly assigned to a pharmacist-involved group (treatment) or a group with no pharmacist involvement (control). Pre- and post-test BPs, tablet counts, lifestyle modifications, and pharmacists’ recommendations were recorded. The 6-month study was carried out in Mahasarakham University pharmacy and 2 primary care units. Patients were monitored monthly by reviewing their medications and supported by providing pharmaceutical care and counseling.

RESULTS

From a total of 235 patients, the treatment group (n = 118) had a significant reduction in both systolic (S) and diastolic (D) BP compared with the 117 patients of the control group (p = 0.037, 0.027, respectively). The 158 patients (76 treatment, 82 control) with BPs 140/90 mm Hg at the beginning of the study showed significant BP reductions (p = 0.002 SBP, 0.008 DBP). The proportion of 158 patients whose BP became stabilized was higher in the treatment group (p = 0.017). The treatment group showed significantly better adherence (p = 0.014) and exercise control (p = 0.012) at the end of the study. Physicians accepted 42.72% of medication modifications and 5.34% of the suggestions for additional investigations.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertensive patients who received pharmacist input achieved a significantly greater benefit in BP reduction, BP control, and improvement in adherence rate and lifestyle modification.