bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid and Efficient Synthesis of High-Purity Fluorine-18 Labeled Haloperidol and Spiperone via the Nitro Precursor in Combination with a New HPLC Separation Method
Authors: Hashizume Kazunari , Hashimoto Naoto , Miyake Yoshihiro
Published: June 2006

We have completed a convenient synthesis of fluorine-18 labeled butyrophenone neuroleptics from their nitro precursors. Thus, we have developed an efficient single-column HPLC system using a C18-bonded vinyl alcohol copolymer gel (octadecyl polymer, ODP) column and strongly alkaline solvent systems for purifying of the 18F-labeled butyrophenone neuroleptics obtained by a single-step 18F-for-nitro exchange reaction. The method has been applied to the synthesis of two typical butyrophenone neuroleptics ([18F]haloperidol and [18F]spiperone) with high purity in high yield. With information concerning the optimized conditions for the 18F-for-nitro exchange reaction, the synthetic method would be useful for synthesizing various 18F-labeled compounds.
Synthesis of Alkyl[hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borato]ruthenium(II) Complexes by Transmetallation
Authors: Maruyama Yooichiroh , Ikeda Shintaro , Ozawa Fumiyuki
Published: June 2006

The alkylation of [Ru(tp)Cl(cod)] (1) (tp = hydrotris(pyrazolyl)borate) with AlR3 (R = Et, Me) successfully proceeded in a benzene or toluene solution at room temperature to give the corresponding [Ru(tp)R(cod)] complexes (R = Et (2), Me (4)) in high yields (82 and 96%, respectively). On the other hand, the reaction of 1 with an ethylmagnesium compound (Et2Mg or EtMgBr) or EtLi provided a significant amount of [Ru(tp)H(cod)] (3) together with 2.
In Vitro Selection of a DNA Ligand that Selectively Binds to the Anticancer Agent Methotrexate
Authors: Ito Yoshihiro , Suzuki Akinori , Kawazoe Naoki , Imanishi Yukio
Published: June 2006

A DNA ligand that selectively binds to the anticancer agent methotrexate was identified using the in vitro selection method. A pool of single-stranded DNAs consisting of random sequences was incubated with a methotrexate-immobilized agarose gel; bound DNAs were then collected and amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This selection process was repeated six times. The selected DNAs were cloned and were found to contain two common sequences. One of these selected DNA clones selectively bound to the methotrexate-immobilized gel and showed a high level of discrimination against the gel immobilized with folic acid, which has a similar chemical structure to methotrexate. In the selection process, a buffer solution was used for DNA binding to the methotrexate-immobilized gel and water was used for elution from the gel. Ultraviolet absorption measurement showed that the conformation of the DNA ligand in the binding buffer was different from that in elution water.
Photoemission Cross Sections for Ions Produced by Collisions of He(23S) Atoms with Linear Triatomic Molecules and Fluorobenzenes
Authors: Tokue Ikuo , Kudo Takeyuki , Kobayashi Masaaki , Yamasaki Katsuyoshi
Published: June 2006

Photoemissions at 200—650 nm resulting from the He(23S) Penning ionization of CO2, CS2, OCS, N2O, C6F6, and C6F5H have been studied in the collision energy range of 120—210 meV using a crossed-beam method. The emission cross sections obtained for the excited parent ions were compared with the values measured at thermal energy. The band strengths for the vibrational bands of the OCS+() system are rather different from the values measured by the photoionization of OCS. The dependences of the emission cross sections for triatomic ions on the collision energy have been compared with those of the partial cross sections for the ion states obtained by Penning ionization electron spectroscopy, and the interaction potentials between He(23S) and the triatomic molecules correlating with the Penning ionization are discussed.
Nonlinear Optical Susceptibility of Oligo- and Polygermanes
Authors: Mochida Kunio , Nagano Shuh-saku , Maeyama Shigeru , Kodaira Takuo , Watanabe Akira , Ito Osamu , Matsuda Minoru
Published: June 2006

Third-order nonlinear susceptibilities (χ(3)) for thin films of oligo- and polygermanes were measured in the range of 0.6—86 × 10−12 esu. A measured χ(3)of 86 × 10−12 esu for a polygermane–polysilane random copolymer, coploy(methylphenylsilylene/methylphenylgermylene), was the largest ever reported for transparent polymers in the visible spectral region.
Efficient Synthesis of Rotaxane Based on Complexation of Acetylene and Dicobalt Hexacarbonyl: Introduction of a Transformable Functional Group
Authors: Tokunaga Yuji , Ohta Go , Yamauchi Yuji , Goda Tatsuhiro , Kawai Nobuhiko , Sugihara Takumichi , Shimomura Youji
Published: June 2006

An efficient end-capping method for preparation of rotaxanes by complexation of dicobalt hexacarbonyl and acetylene moiety of the axle end is described here. The end-capping reaction of pseudorotaxanes proceeds under mild conditions and furnishes the expected rotaxanes bearing a transformable functional group in high yield.
Nickel-catalyzed Conjugate Addition of Arylboron Reagents to α,β-Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds with the Aid of a Catalytic Amount of an Alkyne
Authors: Shirakawa Eiji , Yasuhara Yuichi , Hayashi Tamio
Published: June 2006

Alkynes in combination with a catalytic amount of a nickel complex were found to catalyze the conjugate addition of arylboron reagents to α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds, where use of an optically active alkyne induces the asymmetric addition.
Illumination-induced Magnetization Enhancement of the Weak Ferromagnet [Fe(N3)2(pm)] (pm = Pyrimidine)
Authors: Morishita Yasuhiko , Doi Yoshitaka , Nogami Takashi , Ishida Takayuki
Published: June 2006

The spontaneous magnetization of [Fe(N3)2(pm)] (pm = pyrimidine) was enhanced after UV illumination while the spin-canted antiferromagnetic transition temperature (39 K) was unchanged. Azide-bridged two-dimensional network was damaged on illumination as clarified by IR measurements, possibly leading to an increase of the cant angle.
Dynamical Effect Study of a Stable Trapped Hydrogen Atom by ESR Spectroscopy
Authors: Nakashima Kouichi , Yamauchi Jun
Published: June 2006

Effective spin Hamiltonian parameters of a stable trapped hydrogen atom (H atom) in X-ray-irradiated β-tricalcium phosphate (β-Ca3(PO4)2, β-TCP) were estimated by high frequency ESR (Q-band). The dynamical effect of the H atom was investigated at various temperatures by CW-ESR (X-band) spectroscopy.
Sonoresponsive Volume Phase-transition Behavior of Crosslinked Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) Microgel
Authors: Huo Dongxia , Kobayashi Takaomi
Published: June 2006

We presented that ultrasound, as a novel environmentally stimuli technique, was used controlling the volume phase-transition temperature of high crosslinked poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylic acid) microgels.
Momentum transport processes in the stratiform regions of mesoscale convective systems over the western Pacific warm pool
Authors: Mechem David B. , Chen Shuyi S. , Houze Robert A.
Published: June 2006

Momentum transport by the stratiform components of mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) during the Tropical Ocean–Global Atmosphere Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment in December 1992 is investigated using a cloud‐resolving model. The mesoscale momentum transport by the stratiform regions of MCSs is examined in two distinct large‐scale flow regimes associated with the intraseasonal oscillation over the western Pacific warm pool. Model simulations for 14 December 1992 characterize the ‘westerly onset’ period, which has relatively weak low‐level westerlies with easterlies above. Simulations for 23–24 December represent the ‘strong westerly’ regime, when westerlies extend from the upper troposphere to the surface, with a jet 2–3 km above the surface. In the westerly onset simulation, the extensive stratiform region of a MCS contained a broad region of descent that transported easterly momentum associated with the mid‐level easterly jet downward. Thus, the stratiform regions acted as a negative feedback to decrease the large‐scale mean westerly momentum developing at low levels. In the strong westerly regime, the mesoscale downward air motion in the stratiform regions of large MCSs transported westerly momentum downward and thus acted as a positive feedback, strengthening the already strong westerly momentum at low levels. Momentum fluxes by the mesoscale stratiform region downdraughts are shown to have a systematic and measurable impact on the large‐scale momentum budget. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society.
The assimilation of AIRS radiance data at ECMWF
Authors: Mcnally A. P. , Watts P. D. , A. Smith J. , Engelen R. , Kelly G. A. , Thépaut J. N. , Matricardi M.
Published: June 2006

The development of an assimilation system for radiance data from the Atmospheric InfraRed Sounder (AIRS) is described, in particular the identification of cloud contamination, bias correction and the characterization of errors in the measured radiances and radiative‐transfer model. The results of assimilation experiments are presented. These show that a conservative use of AIRS radiance data (in a system already extensively observed with other satellite data) results in a small, but consistent, improvement in the quality of analyses and forecasts. Larger impacts of AIRS are found in hypothetical experiments that test the use of radiances from only a single sounding instrument. In these, the use of AIRS is found to outperform the use of data either from a single Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit‐A (AMSU‐A) or from a single High‐resolution InfraRed Sounder (HIRS). In this hypothetical context the relative forecast performance of each sensor is found to correlate with the size and vertical scale of increments caused by the assimilation of the radiances. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society.
Mesoscale simulations of organized convection: Importance of convective equilibrium
Authors: Done J. M. , Craig G. C. , Gray S. L. , Clark P. A. , Gray M. E. B.
Published: June 2006

The validity of convective parametrization breaks down at the resolution of mesoscale models, and the success of parametrized versus explicit treatments of convection is likely to depend on the large‐scale environment. In this paper we examine the hypothesis that a key feature determining the sensitivity to the environment is whether the forcing of convection is sufficiently homogeneous and slowly varying that the convection can be considered to be in equilibrium. Two case studies of mesoscale convective systems over the UK, one where equilibrium conditions are expected and one where equilibrium is unlikely, are simulated using a mesoscale forecasting model. The time evolution of area‐average convective available potential energy and the time evolution and magnitude of the timescale of convective adjustment are consistent with the hypothesis of equilibrium for case 1 and non‐equilibrium for case 2.

For each case, three experiments are performed with different partitionings between parametrized and explicit convection: fully parametrized convection, fully explicit convection and a simulation with significant amounts of both. In the equilibrium case, bulk properties of the convection such as area‐integrated rain rates are insensitive to the treatment of convection. However, the detailed structure of the precipitation field changes; the simulation with parametrized convection behaves well and produces a smooth field that follows the forcing region, and the simulation with explicit convection has a small number of localized intense regions of precipitation that track with the mid‐levelflow. For the non‐equilibrium case, bulk properties of the convection such as area‐integrated rain rates are sensitive to the treatment of convection. The simulation with explicit convection behaves similarly to the equilibrium case with a few localized precipitation regions. In contrast, the cumulus parametrization fails dramatically and develops intense propagating bows of precipitation that were not observed. The simulations with both parametrized and explicit convection follow the pattern seen in the other experiments, with a transition over the duration of the run from parametrized to explicit precipitation. The impact of convection on the large‐scaleflow, as measured by upper‐level wind and potential‐vorticity perturbations, is very sensitive to the partitioning of convection for both cases. © Royal Meteorological Society, 2006. Contributions by P. A. Clark and M. E. B. Gray are Crown Copyright.
Profiles of katabatic flow in summer and winter over Coats Land, Antarctica
Authors: Renfrew Ian A. , Anderson Philip S.
Published: June 2006

Observations from a novel autonomous Doppler sodar wind profiling system are described and analysed. These include the first continuous wintertime soundings of katabatic winds over Antarctica—a continent with which they are synonymous. During 2002 and 2003 over 2600 wind profiles were taken during ‘case‐studies’ of high‐resolution sounding lasting hours to days. These case‐studies have been subjectively classified as: synoptically driven, katabatically influenced (28 days); primarily katabatically driven flows (a subset of 16 days); or other flow types. The Doppler sodar observations were augmented by automatic weather station observations at the field site and further up the slope, as well as synoptic and upper‐air observations at Halley Research Station, some 50 km distant on the Brunt Ice Shelf.

In primarily katabatic flows there is a systematic change in the shape and depth of the low‐level katabatic jet with wind speed. Relatively strong katabatic flows (maximum winds of typically 8–10 m s−1) have a jet maximum between 20 and 60 m above the surface and are relatively deep (up to 200 m); while moderate katabatic flows (4–8 m s−1) typically have a jet maximum between 3 and 30 m and are shallower (∼100 m), although they can also be more diffuse in structure with a wind speed maximum at higher altitude. In all katabatic flows there is backing of wind direction with height, consistent with decreasing friction away from the surface. During summertime katabatic flows there is a clear diurnal signature at all heights, although this is less pronounced in the surface layer where there seems to be a persistent 2–4 m s−1 katabatic flow during all case‐studies. Where the diurnal forcing results in an abrupt katabatic flow deceleration, i.e. what may be a katabatic ‘jump’, there is a concurrent vertical acceleration. Wind profiles from a recent numerical weather prediction study of idealized katabatic flows at this site compare favourably with selected mean profiles; the only significant difference is that the model's wind speed is too low over the lowest ∼10 m. Copyright © 2006 Royal Meteorological Society.
Property along the Tort Spectrum: Trespass to Chattels and the Anglo-American Doctrinal Divergence
Authors: Balganesh Shyamkrishna
Published: June 2006

In attempting to apply the tort of trespass to chattels to the virtual world of the Internet, courts in the United States encountered a seemingly odd, yet significant doctrinal issue. While the traditional English action allowed for a claim without any showing of harm or damage (like it did for trespass to land), American (state) common law appeared to insist upon a showing of ‘actual damage to the chattel’ before the tort became actionable. This article undertakes a conceptual analysis of the tort of trespass to chattels, focusing on the difference between English and American common law on the requirement of actual damage. It then attempts to construct a theoretical argument for this doctrinal divergence, based on the vindicatory and corrective functions that the tort is presumed to perform and employs a transaction costs model from law and economics to rationalize the variance between the English and American versions of the tort. It concludes by noting that while there may indeed be efficiency gains to be had from the American version of the tort, the realization of the same may require greater certainty in the law's understanding of ‘damage’ and ‘harm’ than has been seen in the recent past.
Equine Peripheral Blood-Derived Progenitors in Comparison to Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Koerner Jens , Nesic Dobrila , Romero Jose Diaz , Brehm Walter , Mainil-Varlet Pierre , Grogan Shawn Patrick
Published: June 2006

Fibroblast-like cells isolated from peripheral blood of human, canine, guinea pig, and rat have been demonstrated to possess the capacity to differentiate into several mesenchymal lineages. The aim of this work was to investigate the possibility of isolating pluripotent precursor cells from equine peripheral blood and compare them with equine bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were used as a control for cell multipotency assessment. Venous blood (n = 33) and bone marrow (n = 5) were obtained from adult horses. Mononuclear cells were obtained by Ficoll gradient centrifugation and cultured in monolayer, and adherent fibroblast-like cells were tested for their differentiation potential. Chondrogenic differentiation was performed in serum-free medium in pellet cultures as a three-dimensional model, whereas osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation were induced in monolayer culture. Evidence for differentiation was made via biochemical, histological, and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction evaluations. Fibroblast-like cells were observed on day 10 in 12 out of 33 samples and were allowed to proliferate until confluence. Equine peripheral blood-derived cells had osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation capacities comparable to cells derived from bone marrow. Both cell types showed a limited capacity to produce lipid droplets compared to human MSCs. This result may be due to the assay conditions, which are established for human MSCs from bone marrow and may not be optimal for equine progenitor cells. Bone marrow-derived equine and human MSCs could be induced to develop cartilage, whereas equine peripheral blood progenitors did not show any capacity to produce cartilage at the histological level. In conclusion, equine peripheral blood-derived fibroblast-like cells can differentiate into distinct mesenchymal lineages but have less multipotency than bone marrow-derived MSCs under the conditions used in this study.
The Role of Exogenous Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 on the Reprogramming of Primordial Germ Cells into Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Durcova-Hills Gabriela , Adams Ian R. , Barton Sheila C. , Surani M. Azim , McLaren Anne
Published: June 2006

The germ cell lineage is a specified cell population that passes through a series of differentiation steps before giving rise, eventually, to either eggs or sperm. We have investigated the manner in which primordial germ cells (PGCs) are reprogrammed in vitro to form pluripotent stem cells in response to exogenous fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2). The response is dependent on time of exposure and concentration of FGF-2. PGCs isolated in culture show a motile phenotype and lose any expression of a characteristic germ cell marker, mouse vasa homolog. Subsequently, some but not all of the cells show further changes of phenotype, accompanied by changes in expression of endogenous FGF-2 and up-regulation of its receptor, fibroblast growth factor receptor-3, in the nucleus. We propose that it is from this reprogrammed component of the now heterogeneous PGC population that pluripotent stem cells arise.
Evolution of ordinary Portland cement hydration with admixtures by spectroscopic techniques
Authors: Martinez-Ramirez S. , Garcia-Ramos J. V. , Sánchez-Cortes S. , Domingo C. , Blanco-Varela M. T. , Blasco T.
Published: June 2006

The various waterproofing admixtures may prevent water from penetrating concrete in different ways, but primarily by rendering it hydrophobic. Spectroscopic techniques have proved to be the appropriate tools for studying cement hydration in the presence of different admixtures. A combination of Fourier Transform-Raman and 29 Si nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were used here to monitor OPC hydration and C-S-H gel formation with two different waterproofing admixtures. The Q1/Q0 ratio was determined with the former technique to evaluate the influence of the waterproofing substances on C-S-H gel formation rate and intensity, whereas 29Si NMR was employed to establish the relative amount of C-S-H gel formed at different hydration times as well as to calculate the main chain length.
Hydration of alkali-activated slag: comparison with ordinary Portland cement
Authors: Gruskovnjak A. , Lothenbach B. , Holzer L. , Figi R. , Winnefeld F.
Published: June 2006

A multi-method approach was used for the investigation and comparison of alkali-activated slag binders (AAS), pure slag and ordinary Portland cement (OPC). X-ray fluorescence, X-ray powder diffraction, granulometry, calorimetry, thermo-gravimetric analysis and environmental scanning electron microscope investigations of the microstructure with energy dispersive X-ray analyses were used to characterise the cements and their hydrate phases. In addition, the chemical composition of the pore solution, including the different sulphur-containing ions, was analysed. The precipitation mechanisms during binder hydration in the AAS and OPC systems exhibit significant differences: in AAS the formation of the ‘outer product’ C-S-H is much faster than in OPC. The high Si concentrations in the pore solution during the early hydration of AAS are related to the fast dissolution of Na-metasilicate. The fast reaction of Na is an important factor for the voluminous precipitation of C-S-H within the interstitial space already during the first 24 h. In addition to the Na-metasilicate component, the high fineness of the slag represents a further important factor for the fast hydration of AAS. The small slag particles (< 2 μm) are completely dissolved or hydrated within the first 24 h, whereas hydration of the larger particles is much slower. The fast formation of a gel-like matrix in AAS is the product of a fast ‘through solution’ precipitation, which contrasts with the slower dissolution-precipitation mechanism of a ‘topotactic’ growth of C-S-H in OPC. The chemical and mineralogical characterisation of solid and liquid phases and their changes with time are the basis for thermodynamic modelling of the corresponding hydration process, which is presented in a second paper.
Investigation on minerals of Ba-bearing calcium sulpho-ferritealuminate
Authors: Chang J , Li N. , Wang C. P. , Ye Z. M. , Cheng X.
Published: June 2006

In this study, a series of new cement minerals, Ba-bearing calcium sulpho-ferritealuminates, were synthesized by the substitution of Fe3+ for Al3+ ions of C2·75B1·25A3S(1·75CaO·1·25BaO·1Al2O3·CaSO4). Differential thermal analysis—thermogravimetric analysis was used to determine the optimum sintering temperature and 1300°C was found to be a suitable clinkering temperature for the formation of minerals. The composition and structure of the clinker minerals were studied by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results indicated that the size of the crystal was about 2 μm in diameter and the composition of Al2O3 can be substituted for Fe2O3, with a value of 0 ∼ 1·25. The development of strength was investigated and the results showed that the strength of Ba-bearing calcium sulpho-ferritealuminates was higher than C2·75B1·25A3S, and the optimal composition is 0·25.
Porosity of superplasticised cement paste containing limestone filler
Authors: Boel V. , De Schutter G.
Published: June 2006

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) can be placed without any external compaction avoiding some health risks as well as environmental problems. In order to obtain its key properties, a large amount of fine particles and a new generation of superplasticisers can be used. An experimental programme was set up to study the pore structure of SCC, including the influence of limestone filler and polycarboxylate ether superplasticiser. Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) was used as a testing method. In this study tests were performed on samples of hardened cement paste of several ages in order to evaluate the relative influence of various parameters like water—cementitious (W/C), cement—powder (C/P) and water—powder ratio and to investigate the difference between traditional and self-compacting concrete. It was concluded that adding limestone powder as a filler and superplasticiser has an important influence on the pore structure of the cement paste. Decreasing the C/P and keeping the amount of water and powder constant induces a more porous cement paste. Increasing the W/C and keeping the amount of cement and powder constant leads to a coarser cement paste.
An Evolutionary Credibility Model for Claim Numbers
Authors: Albrecht Peter
Published: June 2006

This paper considers a particular credibility model for the claim numbersN1,N2, …,Nn, … of a single risk within a collective in successive periods 1, 2, …,n, … In the terminology of Jewell (1975) the model is an evolutionary credibility model, which means that the underlying risk parameter Λ is allowed to vary in successive periods (the structure function is allowed to be time dependent). Evolutionary credibility models for claimamountshave been studied by Bühlmann (1969, pp. 164–165), Gerber and Jones (1975), Jewell (1975, 1976), Taylor (1975), Sundt (1979, 1981, 1983) and Kremer (1982). Again in Jewell's terminology the considered model is on the other hand stationary, in the sense that the conditional distribution ofNigiven the underlying risk parameter does not vary withi.

The computation of the credibility estimate ofNn+1involves the considerable labor of inverting ann×ncovariance matrix (nis the number of observations). The above mentioned papers have therefore typically looked for model structures for which this inversion is unnecessary and instead a recursive formula for the credibility forecast can be obtained. Typicallynth order stationarya priorisequences (e.g., ARMA (p, q)-processes) lead to annth order recursive scheme. In this paper we impose the restriction that the conditional distribution ofNiis Poisson (which by the way leads to a model identical to the so called “doubly stochastic Poisson sequences” considered in the theory of stochastic point processes). What we gain is a recursive formula for the coefficients of the credibility estimate (not for the estimate itself!) in case of anarbitraryweakly stationarya priorisequence. In addition to this central result the estimation of the structural parameters is considered in this case and some more special models are analyzed. Among them are EARMA-processes (which are positive-valued stationary sequences possessing exponentially distributed marginals and the same autocorrelation structure as ARMA-processes) asa priorisequence and models which can be considered as (discrete) generalizations of the Pólya process.
Premium Calculation from Top Down
Authors: Bühlmann Hans
Published: June 2006

This paper is intended to show how premiums are related to the stability criterion imposed on a portfolio of risks and to the dividend requirements for the capital invested into the insurance operation. The point is that premium calculation should be seen as a consequence of the strategic concepts adopted by the insurance carrier.
Credibility Approximations for Bayesian Prediction of Second Moments
Authors: William S. Jewell  , Schnieper Rene
Published: June 2006

Credibility theory refers to the use of linear least-squares theory to approximate the Bayesian forecast of the mean of a future observation; families are known where the credibility formula is exact Bayesian. Second-moment forecasts are also of interest, for example, in assessing the precision of the mean estimate. For some of these same families, the second-moment forecast is exact in linear and quadratic functions of the sample mean. On the other hand, for the normal distribution with normal-gamma prior on the mean and variance, the exact forecast of the variance is a linear function of the sample variance and the squared deviation of the sample mean from the prior mean. Bühlmann has given a credibility approximation to the variance in terms of the sample mean and sample variance.

In this paper, we present a unified approach to estimating both first and second moments of future observations using linear functions of the sample mean and two sample second moments; the resulting least-squares analysis requires the solution of a 3 × 3 linear system, using 11 prior moments from the collective and giving joint predictions of all moments of interest. Previously developed special cases follow immediately. For many analytic models of interest, 3-dimensional joint prediction is significantly better than independent forecasts using the “natural” statistics for each moment when the number of samples is small. However, the expected squared-errors of the forecasts become comparable as the sample size increases.
Recursions for Convolutions of Arithmetic Distributions
Authors: De Pril Nelson
Published: June 2006

A simple recursion for the n-fold convolution of an arithmetic distribution with itself is developed and its relation to Panjer's algorithm for compound distributions is shown.
Draft of a System for Solvency Control in Non-Life Insurance
Authors: Norberg Ragnar , Sundt Bjørn
Published: June 2006

An outline is given of a proposed system for solvency control in non-life insurance that has recently been discussed within a Working Party appointed by the Norwegian supervisory authorities. According to this system the factual technical reserves must at any time be sufficient to meet, with high probability, all future liabilities stipulated by insurance contracts that have either expired or are currently in force. The system is applied to a provisional, simple model that has been fitted to claims data assembled from Norwegian non-life companies. The numerical examples illustrate, inter alia, how the required reserve depends on the volume of the business, the portfolio mix, and the reinsurance cover.
Bounds on Stop-Loss Premiums for Compound Distributions
Authors: Kaas R. , Goovaerts M. J.
Published: June 2006

Upper and lower bounds are derived for the stop-loss premium of compound distributions with fixed claim number distribution and known mean, variance and range for the claim severity distribution.
Comparison of Some Methods to Fit a Multiplicative Tariff Structure to Observed Risk Data
Authors: Ajne B.
Published: June 2006

Three methods for fitting multiplicative models to observed, cross-classified risk data are compared. They are the method of Bailey–Simon, the method of marginal totals and a maximum likelihood method. The methods are applied to a number of risk data sets and compared with respect to balance and goodness-of-fit.
Chains of Reinsurance Revisited
Authors: Lemaire Jean , Quairiere Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2006

Chains of reinsurance were first modelled by Gerber, in a special case. It is shown that more general results can be obtained by applying Borch's theorem. The Pareto-optimal reinsurance indemnities are uniquely determined using the only assumption that the participating companies use exponential utility functions. A simple comparison then shows that Gerber's indemnities are not Pareto-optimal. Even if no assumption at all is introduced, the indemnities are shown to be closely linked to the risk aversions of the participants.
Improved Approximations for the Aggregate Claims Distribution in the Individual Model
Authors: Hipp Christian
Published: June 2006

Kornya-type higher order approximations are derived for the aggregate claims distribution and for stop loss premiums in the individual model with arbitrary positive claims. Absolute error bounds and error bounds based on concentration functions are given. In the Gerber portfolio containing 31 policies, second order approximations lead to an accuracy of 3 × 10−4, and third order approximations to 1.7 ×10−5.
On the Exact Computation of the Aggregate Claims Distribution in the Individual Life Model
Authors: De Pril Nelson
Published: June 2006

A recursive expression is derived for computing exactly the distribution of aggregate claims of a portfolio of life insurance policies. The recursion generalizes a formula of White and Greville for the claim numbers distribution and improves Kornya's approximation method for the aggregate claims distribution. It can be seen as the counterpart in the individual model of Panjer's recursion formula for the collective model.
An Integrated System for Estimating the Risk Premium of Individual Car Models in Motor Insurance
Authors: Campbell Malcolm
Published: June 2006

The estimation of risk premium for individual car models is discussed. Cluster analysis is used to identify groups of car models with similar technical attributes. Credibility theory is used to combine estimates of risk premium from individual car model claim statistics, group claim statistics, and a technical assessment carried out by car experts. The procedure is applied to a small set of car models.
Stress Levels and Adaptability in Parents of Toddlers with and without Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Baker-Ericzén Mary J. , Brookman-Frazee Lauren , Stahmer Aubyn
Published: June 2006

The toddler years can be a particularly stressful time for all parents, however, parents of children with disabilities may experience additional sources of stress. Recent literature on early education for children with disabilities promotes inclusion with typical peers with increases in the availability of inclusive programs. However, little is known about early intervention inclusion programs and parental factors such as stress and adaptability. The current study expands the research for children with disabilities by investigating the associations of having a young child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on multiple dimensions of parental stress for mothers and fathers and how participation in an inclusive toddler program may be related to these stress levels. Results for this community sample are consistent with previous research indicating that that both mothers and fathers of children with ASD report significantly elevated levels of both child and parent related stress in comparison with parents of typically developing toddlers. Following their child's participation in the inclusion program, mothers of children with ASD report significant reductions in child-related stress but no reductions in the parent-related stress domain. No changes were seen with either child or parent domain for fathers. Lastly, a child's level of social skills was a significant predictor of child-related maternal stress for children with autism. This pattern was not seen in fathers of these children. Implications for early intervention program modifications, such as increasing family support and incorporating adjunctive parent interventions for parents with elevated levels of stress are discussed.
Deinstitutionalization in Two States: The Impact of Advocacy, Policy, and other Social Forces on Services for People with Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Parish Susan L.
Published: June 2006

This paper presents a comparative case study of diverse approaches to deinstitutionalization of developmental disabilities residential services in two Midwestern states. During the 1970s and 1980s, the convergence of leadership by advocates, legislators, and bureaucrats led to Michigan's rapid transformation from an institutional to a community-based system, which was further facilitated by a political culture open to innovation. In contrast, during the same period in Illinois, fragmented leadership by advocates of community services, and the power held by unions, parents of institutionalized children, and private service providers worked for retention of institutions and against development of community residential services. Illinois' political culture, state governmental structure and bureaucracy also actively impeded innovation and further hindered the development of community homes. Implications for today's advocates are drawn from a comparative historical review.
Self-Determination: Is a Rose by Any other Name Still a Rose?
Authors: Turnbull Ann P. , Turnbull Rud
Published: June 2006

We invite you to read this Exchange focusing on the need to have more coherence and consistency in terminology/descriptions and in anticipated outcomes related to self-determination funding. We also invite you to contribute to a national dialogue to seek the coherence and consistency for which the article advocates. You can join the online discussion by visiting the Beach Center website ( www.beachcenter.org ) and looking on the home page for a link to the discussion board or you may link to the discussion board through TASH.org . Please join in!
A kinetic study of vesicle fusion on silicon dioxide surfaces by ellipsometry
Authors: Stroumpoulis Dimitrios , Parra Alejandro , Tirrell Matthew
Published: June 2006

Ellipsometry and a mass transport model were used to investigate the kinetics of lipid bilayer formation on silicon dioxide surfaces from 100 nm diameter 1,2‐dimyristoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DMPC) vesicles. For the range of concentrations studied, 0.025 to 0.380 mg/mL, the rate of the process was found to be concentration dependent and adsorption limited. Further experiments, particularly at concentrations > 0.380 mg/mL, presented evidence of net mass desorption as an intermediate step to supported lipid bilayer formation. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2006
Use of multiple cause of death data in cancer mortality analyses
Authors: Richardson David B.
Published: June 2006

Background

In a cancer mortality study, the decision of whether to define a study outcome via underlying cause of death (UCD) or via multiple cause of death (MCD) information may impact relative risk (RR) estimates and associated confidence intervals.

Methods

Simple equations are presented that relate RR estimates obtained in a cancer incidence study to the RR estimates obtained in mortality studies using UCD and MCD information. Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results program were used to obtain information about the detection and confirmation rates of cancer diagnoses made via UCD. Data from US cause of death data tapes were used to obtain information on the ratio of UCD to MCD listings for cancer outcomes. Numerical examples illustrate the use of these equations.

Results

In our examples, the RRs obtained via analyses of MCD were close to those obtained via analyses of UCD (but of greater precision), even when assuming that the confirmation rate of cancer diagnoses made via MCD listing was substantially lower than that of diagnoses made via UCD.

Conclusions

These finding are supportive of the use of MCD information in cancer mortality studies. Am. J. Ind. Med. 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Smoking imputation and lung cancer in railroad workers exposed to diesel exhaust
Authors: Garshick Eric , Laden Francine , Hart Jaime E. , Smith Thomas J. , Rosner Bernard
Published: June 2006

Background

An association between diesel exhaust exposure and lung cancer mortality in a large retrospective cohort study of US railroad workers has previously been reported. However, specific information regarding cigarette smoking was unavailable.

Methods

Birth cohort, age, job, and cause of death specific smoking histories from a companion case‐control study were used to impute smoking behavior for 39,388 railroad workers who died 1959–1996. Mortality analyses incorporated the effect of smoking on lung cancer risk.

Results

The smoking adjusted relative risk of lung cancer in railroad workers exposed to diesel exhaust compared to unexposed workers was 1.22 (95% CI = 1.12–1.32), and unadjusted for smoking the relative risk was 1.35 (95% CI = 1.24–1.46).

Conclusions

These analyses illustrate the use of imputation in record‐based occupational health studies to assess potential confounding due to smoking. In this cohort, small differences in smoking behavior between diesel exposed and unexposed workers did not explain the elevated lung cancer risk. Am. J. Ind. Med. 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transitions of serum albumin in patients with glomerulosclerosis ‘in vivo’ characterization by electrophoretic titration curves
Authors: Bruschi Maurizio , Musante Luca , Candiano Giovanni , Santucci Laura , Zennaro Cristina , Carraro Michele , Del Boccio Piero , Gusmano Rosanna , Perfumo Francesco , Urbani Andrea , Ghiggeri Gian Marco
Published: June 2006

HSA functions as a physiological transporter of solutes and small molecules that induce structural transitions ‘in vitro’. Analysis of these transitions requires prior purification of HSA that could introduce bias due to conformational changes. We utilized electrophoretic titration curves to describe a neutral to acid (N–A) transition of HSA directly in sera of seven patients with active focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). The divergent electrophoretic profile of HSA was characterized by a shift in the range of pHs between 4.5 and 7.5 with an average variation of free electrophoretic mobility corresponding to loss of 1 positive charge in the pKa protonation range of histidyl residues and should involve domain I of HSA. ‘In‐gel’ determination by maleimide‐PEO2‐biotin of free SH 34 of domain I showed inaccessibility of the dye at this site in pathological HSA and alkylation with the same complex induced N–A transition in normal HSA. Potential binders of free imidazoles such as Ca++ and/or of SH 34 such as NO were excluded on the basis of direct titration and studies on binding stimulation. This is the first report describing a transition of HSA directly ‘in vivo', and the utilization of electrophoretic titration curves was critical to this purpose. This transition appears to be specific to FSGS and is unrelated to the nephrotic syndrome, Ca++ and NO binding. Spectroscopic analysis will elucidate the structural implication.
Field‐based and spectral indicators for soil erosion mapping in semi‐arid mediterranean environments (Coastal Cordillera of central Chile)
Authors: Mathieu Renaud , Cervelle Bernard , Rémy Dominique , Pouget Marcel
Published: June 2006

The Coastal Cordillera of central Chile is naturally sensitive to soil erosion due to moderate to steep slopes, intense winter rains when the vegetation cover is scarce, and deeply weathered granitic rocks. In 1965, 60 per cent of its surface was moderately to very severely eroded. Today this process is still largely active, but no data are currently available to evaluate the real extent, distribution and severity of soil degradation on a regional scale. This information is vital to support efficient soil conservation plans.

A multi‐scale approach was implemented to produce regional land degradation maps based on remote sensing technologies. Fieldwork has shown that the surface colour or ‘redness’ and the density of coarse fragments are pertinent erosion indicators to describe a typical sequence of soil degradation in the context of mediterranean soil developed on granitic materials and micaschists. Field radiometric experiments concluded that both factors influence the reflectance of natural surfaces and can be modelled using radiometric indices accessible from most satellites operating in the optical domain, i.e. redness index and brightness index. Finally the radiometric indices were successfully applied to SPOT images to produce land degradation maps. Only broad classes of erosion status were discriminated and the detection of the degradation processes was only possible when most of the fertile layer had already been removed. This technology provides decision‐making information required to develop regional soil conservation plans and to prioritize actions between catchment areas, especially in vast inter‐tropical regions where spatialized data are not always readily available. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Odor processing in multiple chemical sensitivity
Authors: Hillert Lena , Musabasic Vildana , Berglund Hans , Ciumas Carolina , Savic Ivanka
Published: June 2006

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is characterized by somatic distress upon exposure to odors. As in other idiopathic environmental intolerances, the mechanisms behind the reported hypersensitivity are unknown. Using the advantage of the well‐defined trigger (odor), we investigated whether subjects with MCS could have an increased odor‐signal response in the odor‐processing neuronal circuits. Positron emission tomography (PET) activation studies with several different odorants were carried out in 12 MCS females and 12 female controls. Activation was defined as a significant increase in regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) during smelling of the respective odorant compared to smelling of odorless air. The study also included online measurements of respiratory frequency and amplitude and heart rate variations by recording of R wave intervals (RR) on the surface electrocardiogram. The MCS subjects activated odor‐processing brain regions less than controls, despite the reported, and physiologically indicated (decreased RR interval) distress. In parallel, they showed an odorant‐related increase in activation of the anterior cingulate cortex and cuneus‐precuneus. Notably, the baseline rCBF was normal. Thus, the abnormal patterns were observed only in response to odor signals. Subjects with MCS process odors differently from controls, however, without signs of neuronal sensitization. One possible explanation for the observed pattern of activation in MCS is a top‐down regulation of odor‐response via cingulate cortex. Hum. Brain Mapp, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improving the elasticity and cytophilicity of biodegradable polyurethane by changing chain extender
Authors: Zhang Changhong , Zhang Ning , Wen Xuejun
Published: June 2006

Two types of biodegradable polyurethanes (PUs) were synthesized from methylene di‐p‐phenyl‐diisocyanate (MDI), polycaprolactone diol (PCL‐diol), and chain extenders of either butanediol (BD) or 2,2′‐(methylimino)diethanol (MIDE). The effects of two types of chain extenders on the degradation, mechanical properties, hydrophilicity, and cytophilicity of PUs were evaluated. In vitro degradation studies showed that PU containing MIDE has a higher degradation rate than PU synthesized using BD as a chain extender. Mechanical testing on dry and wet samples demonstrated that PU containing MIDE has a much higher elongation in the elastic region than PU containing BD. PU containing MIDE is more hydrophilic and retains more liquid during in vitro culture. Furthermore, preliminary cytocompatibility studies showed that both types of degradable PU are nontoxic, and fibroblasts adhere better and proliferate faster on MIDE containing PU than BD containing PU. To compare the cytocompatibility and degradation behaviors of the synthesized PU with existing FDA approved biocompatible material, polylactide (PLA), with a similar degradation rate, was used as negative control. Two types of PU were shown to have similar cytocompatibility and degradation behaviors as those of the PLA material. To verify the effectiveness of the cytotoxicity assay, latex was used as a positive control. Latex samples showed toxicity to cultured cells as expected. In conclusion, by changing the type of chain extender used during the synthesis of degradable PUs, the degradation rate, mechanical properties, hydrophilicity, and cytophilicity can be adjusted for different tissue engineering applications. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2006