bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiuser detection with decorrelating detector for asynchronous CDMA systems
Authors: Urushihara Tomoya , Sasaoka Hideichi
Published: September 2004

Multiuser detection using decorrelating detectors in CDMA systems have favorable performance when a few channels are in the synchronized state. However, when there are many channels, the performance degrades due to the effect of intersymbol interference in the unsynchronized state and the effect of noise emphasis. In this paper, we propose a method that reduces the effects between adjacent symbols by adding a guard chip interval while not increasing the processing computational load of the decorrelating detector even in the unsynchronized state. In addition, we propose a method that applies quasi‐maximum likelihood estimation, a simplification of maximum likelihood estimation, to reduce the degradation in the noise emphasis. The result of an evaluation of the BER performance by a computer simulation verified the removal of interference nearly equal to the synchronized state even in the unsynchronized state. Even if the performance is degraded by the effect of noise emphasis with many channels, we verified that the performance can be improved to some degree by applying quasi‐maximum likelihood estimation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 1, 88(1): 32–43, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecja.20139
Studies of stochastic programming models using possibility and necessity measures for linear programming problems with fuzzy random variable coefficients
Authors: Katagiri Hideki , Sakawa Masatoshi , Ishii Hiroaki
Published: September 2004

This paper considers the multi‐objective linear programming problem and discusses the case in which the coefficients of the objective function are fuzzy random variables. First, the fuzzy goal is introduced into the objective function, considering the fuzzy decision of the human decision‐maker. We consider a model in which the possibility or the necessity that the objective function value achieves the fuzzy goal is maximized on the basis of fuzzy programming or possibility programming. It is noted that the possibility or necessity fluctuates stochastically, and a decision‐making process based on the stochastic programming model is proposed. After modifying the problem with constraint into an equivalent deterministic problem, the convex programming problem with a parameter is introduced. Then, an algorithm is proposed in which the optimal solution is derived, combining nonlinear programming and the bisection method. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 88(1): 68–75, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10151
Synthesis, Structure and Complexation Ability of Novel Metalloreceptors Containing Two Pincer Complexes of Palladium(II)
Authors: Nabeshima Tatsuya , Nishida Daisuke , Akine Shigehisa , Saiki Toshiyuki
Published: September 2004

Metalloreceptors 1a and 1b were synthesized by palladation of 42‐ and 54‐membered crown ethers that have two SCS‐pincer ligand moieties. The X‐ray crystallographic analysis reveals that the metalloreceptor 1b has a folded structure in which the two pincer‐Pd moieties are stacked in a parallel manner. The metalloreceptor 1b recognizes the aromatic bidentate guests 4,4′‐bipyridine, pyrazine, and pyrimidine and binds to them in a bridging fashion to form the corresponding bimacrocyclic 1:1 complex. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
Quarterly real GDP estimates for China and ASEAN4 with a forecast evaluation
Authors: Abeysinghe Tilak , Rajaguru Gulasekaran
Published: September 2004

The growing affluence of the East and Southeast Asian economies has come about through a substantial increase in their economic links with the rest of the world, the OECD economies in particular. Econometric studies that try to quantify these links face a severe shortage of high‐frequency time series data for China and the group of ASEAN4 (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand). In this paper we provide quarterly real GDP estimates for these countries derived by applying the Chow–Lin related series technique to annual real GDP series. The quality of the disaggregated series is evaluated through a number of indirect methods. Some potential problems of using readily available univariate disaggregation techniques are also highlighted. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Daily volatility forecasts: reassessing the performance of GARCH models
Authors: McMillan David G. , Speight Alan E. H.
Published: September 2004

Volatility plays a key role in asset and portfolio management and derivatives pricing. As such, accurate measures and good forecasts of volatility are crucial for the implementation and evaluation of asset and derivative pricing models in addition to trading and hedging strategies. However, whilst GARCH models are able to capture the observed clustering effect in asset price volatility in‐sample, they appear to provide relatively poor out‐of‐sample forecasts. Recent research has suggested that this relative failure of GARCH models arises not from a failure of the model but a failure to specify correctly the ‘true volatility’ measure against which forecasting performance is measured. It is argued that the standard approach of usingex postdaily squared returns as the measure of ‘true volatility’ includes a large noisy component. An alternative measure for ‘true volatility’ has therefore been suggested, based upon the cumulative squared returns from intra‐day data. This paper implements that technique and reports that, in a dataset of 17 daily exchange rate series, the GARCH model outperforms smoothing and moving average techniques which have been previously identified as providing superior volatility forecasts. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MLL/GRAF fusion in an infant acute monocytic leukemia (AML M5b) with a cytogenetically cryptic ins(5;11)(q31;q23q23)
Authors: Panagopoulos Ioannis , Kitagawa Ashly , Isaksson Margareth , Mörse Helena , Mitelman Felix , Johansson Bertil
Published: September 2004

More than 30 fusions involving the MLL gene at 11q23 have been reported in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Some of these chimeras are rather common, such as MLL/MLLT3(AF9), but many are quite rare, with some, for example, MLL/GRAF, described only in a single case. The MLL/GRAF fusion, in which the reciprocal hybrid was not expressed, suggesting that the former transcript was the leukemogenic one, was detected in a juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia with a t(5;11)(q31;q23). Here, we report a second case—an infant acute monocytic leukemia (AML M5b)—with an MLL/GRAF fusion. By conventional G‐banding, the karyotype was normal. However, Southern blot and fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses revealed that MLL was rearranged and that the 5′ part of the MLL gene was inserted into 5q in the vicinity of 5q31, which harbors GRAF. Reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed that exon 9 of MLL was fused in‐frame with exon 19 of GRAF. Extralong genomic PCR with subsequent sequence analysis demonstrated that the breakpoints occurred in intron 9 of MLL, nine base pairs (bp) downstream from exon 9, and in intron 18 of GRAF, 117 bp downstream from exon 18. A 6‐bp insertion (ACACTC) of unknown origin was present at the junction. The putative MLL/GRAF fusion protein would retain the AT‐hook DNA‐binding domain, the DNA methyl transferase motif, the transcription repression domain of MLL, and the SH3 domain of GRAF. As expected, the reciprocal GRAF/MLL was neither expressed nor generated at the genomic level as a consequence of the ins(5;11)(q31;q23q23). On the basis of the now‐reported two cases with MLL/GRAF, we conclude that this transcript—but not the reciprocal one—characterizes a rare genetic subgroup of infant AML. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A microarray model system identifies potential new target genes of the proto‐oncogene HOX11
Authors: Hoffmann Katrin , Dixon Darcelle N. , Greene Wayne K. , Ford Jette , Taplin Ross , Kees Ursula R.
Published: September 2004

HOX11 is a homeobox gene originally identified at a chromosomal breakpoint in T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL). It is one of the most frequently deregulated genes in T‐ALL, although the precise role of HOX11 in leukemogenesis as well as in normal development remains obscure. To gain more insight into the functional role of HOX11, we utilized a microarray model system to characterize the gene expression network that it directs. Using one of our T‐ALL cell lines that had been stably transfected to express HOX11 and high‐density oligonucleotide HG‐U95A arrays, we identified a large number of differentially expressed genes in response to the enforced expression of HOX11. We focused on examining genes found to be up‐regulated according to the microarray analysis and selected three putative target genes, NFKB2, SMARCD3, and NR4A3, for further investigation. We could not only confirm the up‐regulation of NR4A3 by an independent method in all clones expressing HOX11, but luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that the effect that HOX11 exerted on the proximal promoter of NR4A3 was dependent on the presence of an intact homeodomain, providing support for the idea that HOX11 manifests its regulatory function via its action as a transcription factor. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gene expression analysis of chromosomal regions with gain or loss of genetic material detected by comparative genomic hybridization
Authors: Meléndez Bárbara , Díaz‐Uriarte Ramón , Cuadros Marta , Martínez‐Ramírez Ángel , Fernández‐Piqueras José , Dopazo Ana , Cigudosa Juan‐Cruz , Rivas Carmen , Dopazo Joaquín , Martínez‐Delgado Beatriz , Benítez Javier
Published: September 2004

Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) has been widely used to detect copy number alterations in cancer and to identify regions containing candidate tumor‐responsible genes; however, gene expression changes have been described only in highly amplified regions (amplicons). To study the overall impact of slight copy number changes on gene expression, we analyzed 16 T‐cell lymphomas by using CGH and a custom‐designed cDNA microarray containing 7,657 genes and expressed sequence tags related to tumorigenesis. We evaluated mean gene expression and variability within CGH‐altered regions and explored the relationship between the effects of the gene and its position within these regions. Minimally overlapping CGH candidate areas (6q25, 13q21–q22, and 19q13.1) revealed a weak relationship between altered genomic content and gene expression. However, some candidate genes showed modified expression within these regions in the majority of tumors; these candidate genes were evaluated and confirmed in another independent series of 23 T‐cell lymphomas by use of the same cDNA microarray and by FISH on a tissue microarray. When all the CGH regions detected for each tumor were considered, we found a significant increase or decrease in the mean expression of the genes contained in gained or lost regions, respectively. In addition, we found that the expression of a gene was dependent not only on its position within an altered region but also on its own mechanism of regulation: genes in the same altered region responded very differently to the gain or loss of genetic material. Supplementary material for this article can be found on the Genes, Chromosomes, and Cancer website at http://www.interscience.wiley.com/jpages/1045‐2257/suppmat/index.html. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distinguishing between naturally and culturally flaked cobbles: A test case from Alberta, Canada
Authors: Gillespie Jason David , Tupakka Susan , Cluney Christine
Published: September 2004

Distinguishing between naturally and culturally produced, simply flaked cobbles has been a problem for proponents of a pre‐Clovis occupation in the Americas. Several sites in Alberta have been assigned a pre‐Clovis status based on the presence of simply flaked cobbles found in Late Pleistocene till deposits. Historically, these types of assemblages have been assigned a cultural status based on subjective criteria and appeals to the analyst's expertise. To determine the archaeological status of two such assemblages from Alberta (Varsity Estates and Silver Springs), they were compared to a known natural assemblage and two known cultural assemblages. Chi‐square testing was used to evaluate several lithic attributes. Only those attributes that statistically differentiated between natural and cultural assemblages were used for further analyses. All cobbles were then scored using these attributes. A point was awarded when a statistically significant attribute of human‐manufacture was present. These points were then totaled, providing an aggregate score for each cobble. These scores were plotted to determine whether the test assemblages had closer affinities with the known natural or known cultural assemblages. The results indicate that the proposed pre‐Clovis assemblages have closer affinities to known natural assemblages than to cultural assemblages. Our results suggest that these sites provide no evidence for a pre‐Clovis occupation in the Americas. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Re‐creation of the 1744 Heylyn and Frye ceramic patent wares using Cherokee clay: Implications for raw materials, kiln conditions, and the earliest English porcelain production
Authors: Ramsay W.R.H. , Hill G.R. , Ramsay E.G.
Published: September 2004

Porcelain wares have been produced following the directions contained in the Heylyn and Frye patent of 1744, using Cherokee clay and a lime‐alkali glass frit. The wares were fired to the bisque (˜ 950°C), glazed using a clay‐glass mixture, and then fired to a “heat‐work” level of Orton cone 9–90° deflection at 150°C per hour (1279°C). Modal mineralogy comprises Caplagioclase and two glass phases, one relict frit and the other a melt phase. The bulk chemistry of the body comprises 64.3 wt % SiO2, 21.7 wt % Al2O3, and 5.6 wt % CaO. Molecular ratios are SiO2:Al2O3 5.0 and SiO2:CaO 10.7. It is concluded that the patent, whose significance has been questioned over many years, was a practical working recipe, that close comparison may be made with porcelains of the “A”‐marked group, and that the patent represents a remarkable landmark in English ceramic history. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Therapeutic efficacy of an angiotensin II receptor antagonist in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Yokohama Shiro , Yoneda Masashi , Haneda Masakazu , Okamoto Satoshi , Okada Mituyoshi , Aso Kazunobu , Hasegawa Takenao , Tokusashi Yoshihiko , Miyokawa Naoyuki , Nakamura Kimihide
Published: September 2004

The therapeutic efficacy of angiotensin II receptor antagonist, losartan, was studied in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Seven patients with both NASH and hypertension were treated with losartan (50 mg/d) for 48 weeks. Treatment with losartan resulted in a significant decrease in blood markers of hepatic fibrosis, plasma TGF-β1 and serum ferritin concentration concurrently with an improvement in serum aminotransferase levels. Histological assessment showed improvement of hepatic necroinflammation in five patients, reduction of hepatic fibrosis in four patients, and disappearance of iron deposition in two patients. No side effect of treatment was noted at any time during the study. In conclusion, the present data raise the possibility that an angiotensin II receptor antagonist may be therapeutically efficacious for NASH. (Hepatology 2004.)
Impact of cirrhosis on the development of experimental hepatic metastases by B16F1 melanoma cells in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Qi Ke , Qiu Hongming , Sun Dongfeng , Minuk Gerald Y. , Lizardo Michael , Rutherford John , Orr William F.
Published: September 2004

Metastases rarely occur in human livers with cirrhosis in clinical studies. We postulated that this phenomenon would also occur in experimental cirrhosis. Cirrhosis was established in C57BL/6 mice by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) gastrogavage. B16F1 melanoma cells were injected into the mesenteric vein to induce hepatic metastases. Contrary to our postulate, there was greater than 4-fold increase in metastasis in animals with cirrhosis compared to controls. Intravital videomicroscopy showed that the hepatic sinusoids were narrower and more tumor cells were retained in the terminal portal vein (TPV) in cirrhotic livers. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that the expression of vascular adhesion molecules was significantly increased in cirrhosis. Using confocal microscopy and the fluorescent nitric oxide (NO) probe 4,5-diaminofluorescein diacetate, a significantly lower level of NO release was detected in livers with cirrhosis both in basal conditions and after tumor cell arrest. Eight hours after mesenteric vein tumor cell injection, the percentage of apoptotic tumor cells in the sinusoids was 17% ± 2% in livers with cirrhosis and 30% ± 5% in normal livers. More mitotic and Ki-67 labeled tumor cells were seen in livers with cirrhosis. In conclusion, the changes in architecture and adhesion molecule expression in livers with cirrhosis may cause more tumor cells to arrest in the TPV. Lower levels of NO production may reduce apoptosis of B16F1 cells in livers with cirrhosis. As a result, these changes may promote the growth of metastasis in this cirrhotic model. (Hepatology 2004.)
Triple‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of Ginkgo biloba in sexual dysfunction due to antidepressant drugs
Authors: Wheatley David
Published: September 2004

A triple‐blind (investigator, patient, statistician), randomized, placebo‐controlled, trial of Ginkgo biloba 240 mg daily was carried out. Following a 1‐week control, it was given to 24 patients with sexual impairment due to antidepressant drugs. Efficacy analysis was carried out on eight males and five females on placebo and six males and five females on Ginkgo, completing the full 12 weeks of treatment. Not included were three subjects who dropped out after 6 weeks. A validated, sex (gender)‐orientated questionnaire was recorded at − 1, 0, 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 weeks, and a non‐blind follow‐up for a further 6‐weeks on Ginkgo. Hamilton anxiety and depression ratings were made at 0, 6 and 12 weeks and simple global assessments of alertness and memory. There were some spectacular individual responses in both groups, but no statistically significant differences, and no differences in side‐effects. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antipsychotic drugs and risk of type 2 diabetes: An evidence‐based approach
Authors: Bellantuono Cesario , Tentoni Luigi , Donda Pietro
Published: September 2004

Objective

To review studies conducted to evaluate the risk of type 2 diabetes in patients treated with different antipsychotic drugs (AP).

Methods

a MEDLINE search (January 1985–February 2003) was conducted to establish the potential relationship between the exposure to AP (conventional and second generation) and the development of type 2 diabetes. Studies were classified according to their experimental design as prospective and retrospective (incidence and prevalence based).

Results

Twenty‐one studies were selected: nine prospective and eleven retrospective.

Data Synthesis and Conclusions

Patients with schizophrenia treated with different AP have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared with the general population. The data so far available, however, do not establish whether the increasing risk of developing diabetes is a function of the schizophrenia itself or is induced by the antipsychotic treatment. A number of methodological flaws in the study design and data collection do not allow conclusions to be drawn on the risk between patients treated with conventional drugs versus those treated with new ones. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of methadone and its role in fatalities
Authors: Corkery John M. , Schifano Fabrizio , Ghodse A. Hamid , Oyefeso Adenekan
Published: September 2004

Methadone is a synthetic opioid, used both as an analgesic in severe pain relief and now mainly in the treatment of opiate dependence. Such use of the drug has increased as its advantages have become widely recognized. There are undesirable outcomes from its greater use, including a substantial market in diverted methadone and a high number of deaths where the drug has been implicated. It is important to understand how and why methadone causes death so that such fatalities can be minimized, and to disseminate such information. This paper presents an overview of the chief effects of methadone on the human body, considering its metabolism, drug interactions and tolerance. The principal mechanisms by which methadone causes death are discussed: respiratory depression, aspiration of vomit, pulmonary oedema, bronchopneumonia, cardiac problems and renal failure. Many such deaths are preventable, if drug interactions and polydrug use are avoided, its longer period of metabolism and individuals' tolerance levels are considered. It is hoped that this paper will (a) help guide health professionals in their management and treatment of patients participating in methadone treatment programmes, and (b) provide some basic information for those dealing with individuals who have consumed methadone. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abrasive water jet cutting as a new procedure for cutting cancellous bone—In vitro testing in comparison with the oscillating saw
Authors: Schwieger Karsten , Carrero Volker , Rentzsch Reemt , Becker Axel , Bishop Nick , Hille Ekkehard , Louis Hartmut , Morlock Michael , Honl Matthias
Published: September 2004

The quality of bone cuts is assessed by the accuracy and biological potency of the cut surfaces. Conventional tools (such as saws and milling machines) can cause thermal damage to bone tissue. Water jet cutting is nonthermal; that is, it does not generate heat. This study investigates whether the abrasive jet cutting quality in cancellous bone with a biocompatible abrasive is sufficient for the implantation of endoprostheses or for osteotomies. Sixty porcine femoral condyles were cut with an abrasive water jet and with an oscillating saw. α‐lactose‐monohydrate was used as a biocompatible abrasive. Water pressure (pW = 35 and 70 MPa) and abrasive feed rate (ṁ = 0.5, 1, and 2 g/s) were varied. As a measure of the quality of the cut surface the cutting gap angle (δ) and the surface roughness (Ra) were determined. The surface roughness was lowest for an abrasive feed rate of ṁ = 2 g/s (jet direction: 39 ± 16 μm, advance direction: 54 ± 22 μm). However, this was still significantly higher than the surface roughness for the saw group (jet direction: 28 ± 12 μm, advance direction: 36 ± 19 μm) (p < 0.001 for both directions). At both pressure levels the greatest cutting gap angle was observed for a mass flow rate of ṁ = 1 g/s (pW = 35 MPa: δ = 2.40 ± 4.67°; pW = 70 MPa: δ = 4.13 ± 4.65°), which was greater than for ṁ = 0.5 g/s (pW = 35 MPa: δ = 1.63 ± 3.89°; pW = 70 MPa: δ = 0.36 ± 1.70°) and ṁ = 2 g/s (pW =70 MPa: δ = 0.06 ± 2.40°). Abrasive water jets are suitable for cutting cancellous bone. The large variation of the cutting gap angle is, however, unfavorable, as the jet direction cannot be adjusted by a predefined value. If it is possible to improve the cutting quality by a further parameter optimization, the abrasive water jet may be the cutting technique of the future for robotic usage. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 71B: 223–228, 2004
Effect of a bisphosphonate, disodium pamidronate, on the quasi‐static flexural properties of Palacos R acrylic bone cement
Authors: Zenios M. , Nokes L. , Galasko C. S. B.
Published: September 2004

Aseptic loosening is a major complication of joint replacements and is thought to be associated with a heavy macrophage infiltrate in response to wear particles. Bisphosphonates are compounds known to inhibit osteoclastic activity and are used to reduce osteolysis in Paget's disease, osteoporosis, and metastatic bone disease. Oral bisphosphonates have also been used to decrease osteolysis and therefore prevent aseptic loosening of joint replacements. It has been suggested that bisphosphonates mixed in bone cement can reduce bone resorption in joint replacement surgery. This would be an excellent therapeutic option to prevent or control osteolysis. The present aim was to study the mechanical properties of a commercially available acrylic bone cement, Palacos R, mixed with the bisphosphonate pamidronate. The liquid monomer of Palacos R was mixed with liquid pamidronate. Two groups of bone‐cement strips were produced, one with added pamidronate and one without. The flexural properties of the cement strips were examined. A significant reduction in both the bending modulus and bending strength of the specimens with added pamidronate was found. In conclusion, the use of liquid pamidronate mixed with the acrylic bone cement Palacos R in order to reduce osteolysis is not recommended because of its effect on the mechanical properties of Palacos R. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 71B: 322–326, 2004
Characteristics of ovine articular chondrocytes in a three‐dimensional matrix consisting of different crosslinked collagen
Authors: Dorotka Ronald , Toma Cyril D. , Bindreiter Ulrich , Zehetmayer Sonja , Nehrer Stefan
Published: September 2004

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the (ultra‐) morphology, biochemical behavior, and activity of ovine chondrocytes seeded on a matrix consisting of three types of collagen (I, II, III) with two different degrees of UV crosslinking. Ovine articular chondrocytes were isolated from stifle joints and seeded on both types of UV‐crosslinked collagen matrices, as well as on non‐crosslinked sponges, and cultured for 12 h, 7 days, 14 days, and 21 days. Histological analysis, electron microscopy, biochemical assays for glycosaminoglycans, and real‐time quantitative PCR for collagens were performed for cell‐seeded and unseeded matrices. There was no dramatic difference in the morphology and bioactivity of the cells; however, concerning handling characteristics and integrative stability, both types of crosslinked sponges were superior to non‐crosslinked constructs. The results demonstrate that ovine articular chondrocytes express their phenotype in a sponge consisting of collagen; furthermore, because of mechanical reasons, non‐crosslinked matrices cannot be recommended for implantationin vivo. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 72B: 27–36, 2005
In vitro evaluation of orthopedic composite cytotoxicity: Assessing the potential for postsurgical production of hydroxyl radicals
Authors: DiCicco Michael , Compton Ryan , Jansen‐Varnum Susan A.
Published: September 2004

Hydroxyl radical (·OH)‐induced inflammation is a primary mode for in vivo cytotoxicity. A legitimate concern is whether particulate wear debris from orthopedic composites can stimulate inflammation via ferrous ion (Fe2+)‐mediated production of ·OH. The purpose of this research was to utilize electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin trapping in investigating and comparing the potential for postsurgical cytotoxicity induced specifically by ·OH in the presence of two composites: Simplex P® and the novel, hybrid, CORTOSS™. Cytotoxicity is evaluated based on the composites competitively chelating catalytic Fe2+ or readily reducing ferric ions (Fe3+), in facilitating the Fenton reaction (FR). ·OH that are produced were then validated by a radical scavenger to confirm a genuine radical signal and mechanism. Spin adduct peak areas decreased in the presence of CORTOSS as opposed to increasing in the presence of Simplex P, evaluated against their respective controls. A plausible theory elucidating this finding is that CORTOSS may sequester the Fe form, by virtue of its monomers. Principally, direct comparison of composites indicated that Simplex P had greater tendency to produce ·OH, yielding 25.6 and 48.7% greater spin adduct peak areas when chelated and non‐chelated Fe2+ are used, respectively. Moreover, the rate of FR accelerated when chelated Fe2+ was used, leading to the formation of a ternary complex with the composites. This was more prominent in Simplex P, as coordination of chelated Fe2+ occurs on its surface via an electrostatic attraction to allow a seventh coordination site for ligand exchange in the ternary complex, stabilized by Ba2+. Conversely, the silica found in CORTOSS possesses radical quenching abilities that deactivate generated ·OH in impeding the efficiency of FR. Neither composite demonstrated a capacity to readily reduce Fe3+ to the relevant Fe2+, as validated by a non‐radical pathway. Instead, the artificial spin adduct signal attained when employing chelated Fe3+ was due to the nucleophilic addition of water onto DMPO. Simplex P may also serve as a template for surface catalysis of the nucleophilic addition of water onto DMPO involving chelated Fe3+. CORTOSS is thought not to induce cytotoxicity, whereas the propensity of Simplex P in promoting Fenton chemistry is a serious issue that must be addressed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 72B: 146–155, 2005
Stressful life event experiences of homeless adults: A comparison of single men, single women, and women with children
Authors: Zugazaga Carole
Published: September 2004

This article describes stressful life events experienced by a multi‐shelter sample of 162 homeless adults in the Central Florida area. Participants included homeless single men (n = 54), homeless single women (n = 54), and homeless women with children (n = 54). Subjects were interviewed with a modified version of the List of Threatening Experiences (Brugha & Cragg, 1990). Findings indicate that the two groups of women were more likely to have been both physically and sexually abused as children than single men. Single women were more likely to have experienced sexual violence over the age of 18, experienced domestic violence, and been hospitalized in a psychiatric facility. Single men were more likely to have abused drugs and alcohol, and to have been incarcerated. Women with children were more likely to have lived in foster care. Overall, single women experienced significantly more stressful life events than single men and women with children. These findings suggest that the three groups are unique and would benefit from prevention and/or treatment approaches developed for the specific subgroup. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 643–654, 2004.
Revisiting the Sense of Community Index: A confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Obst Patricia L. , White Katherine M.
Published: September 2004

The Sense of Community Index (SCI) is one of the most commonly used measures of Psychological Sense of Community (PSOC). There is much discussion in the literature as to the validity of the scale as a measure not only of overall PSOC, but also of the dimensions (Membership, Influence, Needs Fulfillment, and Emotional Connection) theorized by McMillan and Chavis (1986) to underlie the construct. The current paper examines the factor structure of SCI in a study (N= 219) that examines multiple community memberships, including neighborhood, student, and interest group communities. Data was analyzed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The results showed that the SCI, in its original factor structure, did not adequately fit the data. The scale was revised, therefore, using CFA indicators, to produce a new four‐factor structure based on the same items. This revised model was tested and found to display adequate fit indices to the data in all three communities. The results of the study provide empirical support for retaining measures that encapsulate the four dimensions of PSOC. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 691–705, 2004.
Predicting social integration in the community among college students
Authors: Herrero Juan , Gracia Enrique
Published: September 2004

This article aims to examine determinants of social integration in the community among college students. Two‐wave panel data from an undergraduate student sample ( N = 310) was used to explore the effects of multiple sets of variables (personal, interpersonal, and situational) on social integration in the community. Structural equation analysis showed that personal (self‐esteem and perceived stress) and situational (undesirable life events) variables made significant contributions to changes to social integration in the community. Implications of these and other findings are discussed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 707–720, 2004.
Methodological issues in conducting research with refugee women: Principles for recognizing and re‐centering the multiply marginalized
Authors: Goodkind Jessica R. , Deacon Zermarie
Published: September 2004

Many recent efforts in the field of community psychology have been dedicated to moving from values to action in incorporating diversity into our work. An essential aspect of this goal is designing research that provides opportunities for underrepresented perspectives to be heard. The voices of refugee women, in particular, are not typically incorporated in research, planning for service provision, and policy design. This article explores methodological challenges involved in conducting research with refugee women who are marginalized both within broader U.S. contexts and within their own communities. Six guiding principles are presented: 1) develop strategies for involving marginalized refugee women; 2) consider the advantages and limitations of quantitative and qualitative methodologies and be innovative about combining them; 3) prepare for extensive time and effort for quantitative measure construction; 4) consider gendered decision‐making structures in the lives of refugee women and their potential impact on the research process; 5) plan for refugee women's common triple burden of working outside of the home, managing their households, and adjusting to life in a new country; and 6) attend to refugee women's cultural norms about and unfamiliarity with the interview process. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 721–739, 2004.
Optimisation of electrochemical decolourisation process of an azo dye, Methyl Orange
Authors: Sanromán María Ángeles , Pazos Marta , Cameselle Claudio
Published: September 2004

The decolourisation of an azo dye, Methyl Orange, by an electrochemical technology was studied in a reaction cell with a working volume of 1 dm3, using graphite for both electrodes (anode and cathode). No decolourisation was detected in the treatment of pure solutions of Methyl Orange, but significant decolourisation was observed in the presence of NaCl, the influence of which was established. The extent of decolourisation, treatment time, and electrical consumption largely depended on the applied potential difference; the optimum value being around 5V. To achieve effective decolourisation, the NaCl concentration should be increased as the concentration of azo dye increases. Thus, almost complete decolourisation was achieved in 60 min for an effluent containing 40 kg m−3 NaCl and 90 g m−3 of dye. Increasing temperature (from 20 to 40°C) did not improve the efficiency of electrochemical oxidation. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Bacterial decolorization of an azo dye with a natural isolate of Pseudomonas luteola and genetically modified Escherichia coli
Authors: Yeh Mao‐Song , Chang Jo‐Shu
Published: September 2004

The azo dye, Reactive Black B (RBB), was decolorized by a wild‐type isolate (Pseudomonas luteola), an Escherichia coli mutant (E coli NO3), and a recombinant strain (E coli CY1) harboring decolorizing genes from Rhodococcus sp. Decolorization of RBB by P luteola was inefficient with only 65% conversion, while color removal exceeded 90% for the two E coli strains, which were further investigated to determine the decolorization kinetics and operational stability. Kinetic studies applying a Monod‐type model showed that E coli NO3 was a more effective decolorizer for RBB than the CY1 strain. In addition, decolorization of RBB with the NO3 strain could tolerate higher temperatures and was more kinetically favorable over CY1. The optimal pH for decolorization was around 6.0–8.0 for NO3 and 8.0–10.0 for CY1. Decolorization of RBB was inhibited when the dissolved oxygen level exceeded 0.35 mg dm−3 for both strains. E coli NO3 was more stable during repeated operations, whereas the decolorization activity of E coli CY1 slightly decreased when the strain was used repeatedly. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Improvement of the settling properties of Anammox sludge in an SBR
Authors: Dapena‐Mora Ana , Arrojo Belén , Campos José Luis , Mosquera‐Corral Anuska , Méndez Ramón
Published: September 2004

Biological systems for the treatment of wastewater have to provide optimum sludge retention to achieve high removal efficiencies. In the case of slow‐growing micro‐organisms, such as anaerobic ammonia‐oxidizing (Anammox) bacteria, episodes of flotation involving biomass wash‐out are especially critical. In this study a strategy based on the introduction of a mix period in the operational cycle of the Anammox Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) was tested for its effects on biomass retention and nitrite removal. Using this new cycle distribution the biomass retention inside the reactor improved as the solids concentration in the effluent of the SBR decreased from 20–45 to 5–10 mg VSS dm−3 and the biomass concentration inside the reactor increased from 1.30 to 2.53 g VSS dm−3 in a period of 25 days. A decrease of the sludge volume index (SVI) from 108 to 60 cm3 g VSS−1 was also observed. Complete depletion of nitrite was achieved in the reactor only with the new cycle distribution treating nitrogen loading rates (g N‐NO2− + g N‐NH4+ dm−3 d−1) up to 0.60 g N dm−3 d−1. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Base‐catalyzed deuterium and tritium labelling of 1‐biphenyl‐4‐ylpropane‐1,2‐dione and deuteration of aryl methyl ketones
Authors: Berthelette Carl , Scheigetz John
Published: September 2004

A synthesis and a base‐catalyzed exchange reaction was developed under mild conditions to deuterate and subsequently tritiate the methyl group of the base sensitive diketone 1‐biphenyl‐4‐ylpropane‐l,2‐dione depicted in Figure 1. Using Et3N as base, deuterium incorporation of the methyl group was 88.9% and the tritium incorporation gave a specific radioactivity of 119 mCi/mmol. The scope of the exchanges was extended to methyl aryl ketones 2–4. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Base‐catalyzed deuterium and tritium labeling of aryl methyl sulfones
Authors: Scheigetz John , Berthelette Carl , Li Chun , Zamboni Robert J.
Published: September 2004

A method is presented for conveniently tritiating the aryl methyl sulfones of compounds identified as potent and selective inhibitors of human Cox‐2 and as DP receptor antagonists. A base‐catalyzed exchange reaction was conducted with deuterated water and the total deuterium incorporation, ranging from 46 to 99%, was calculated using mass spectrometry. Results from these exchanges were used as guidelines for tritium labeling giving specific radioactivities in the range of 28–120 mCi/mmol (1.03–4.43 GBq/mmol). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decolourisation of diverse industrial dyes by some Phlebia spp. and their comparison with Phanerochaete chrysosporium
Authors: Arora Daljit Singh , Chander Mukesh
Published: September 2004

Three species of Phlebia, viz. P. brevispora, P. fascicularia and P. floridensis have been evaluated for their potential to decolourise eight industrial dyes including; reactive yellow, reactive orange, reactive red, rathidol scarlet, coracryl black, coracryl pink, coracryl violet and coracryl red. The cultures used for the present study were pre adapted by growing these on yeast glucose agar medium supplemented with Poly–R 478, a reference dye. The fungal cultures were grown in mineral salts broth and harvested after different incubation periods to obtain their cell free enzyme extracts which were then used to assess their ability to decolourise the above mentioned dyes. The extracts obtained from the cultures grown for six days significantly decolourised the tested dyes. The study revealed Phlebia spp. to be better dye decolourisers than Phanerochaete chrysosporium. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Screening for antibacterial activity in 72 species of wood‐colonizing fungi by the Vibrio fisheri bioluminescence method
Authors: Zrimec Maja Berden , Zrimec Alexis , Slanc Petra , Kac Javor , Kreft Samo
Published: September 2004

Resistance of pathogenic bacteria to antibiotics leads scientists to discover new antibacterial drugs. Ninety samples of wood‐colonizing fungi were cultivated on agar plates, and their extracts tested for antibacterial activity using the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence test. Two fungi species, Serpula lacrymans and Nectria vilior, were found to be a potential new source of thermostable antibiotics. Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence test was found to be a useful method for antibacterial activity screening from the samples of natural origin. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Tat dependent export of E. coli phytase AppA by using the PhoD‐specific transport system of Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Gerlach Roman , Pop Ovidiu , Müller Jörg P.
Published: September 2004

It has been shown recently that the twin‐arginine signal peptide of Bacillus subtilis phosphodiesterase PhoD (SPPhoD) can mediate Tat dependent transport of proteins via its specific Tat‐transport components. In order to test the use of Tat dependent transport signals for heterologous product synthesis, Escherichia coli phytase AppA was expressed under control of PhoD‐specific export signals in B. subtilis. Induction of Tat components TatAd/TatCd was mediated by using a functionally altered PhoR/PhoP signal transduction system which regulates the expression of these components. AppA was highly susceptible to host specific extracellular proteases. Expression of appA in B. subtilis wprA strain resulted in the stable production of AppA. A fusion protein consisting of SPPhoD and mature AppA remained unprocessed, while introduction of the AppA signal peptidase cleavage site resulted in efficient processing of the fusion protein. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Strategy competence: a study of successful business establishments
Authors: Pehrsson Anders
Published: September 2004

This article presents a study of the link between strategy competence and performance in the context of international business establishments. The concept of strategy competence encompasses business relatedness and market familiarity.

The empirical findings are based on a study of 173 Swedish ventures in Germany and show that high relatedness between the core business and the local business, in terms of similar requirements for management skills and brand recognition, leads to high performance of the local business. At the same time, extensive experience of business strategies of local competitors leads to higher performance.

In light of the research findings, management would be well advised to strive for high resource relatedness between the market entry business and the core business of the firm and to focus on the build‐up of key market experiences, such as knowledge of the business strategies of local competitors.

Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The response of Phragmites australis to harvesting pressure in the Muzi Swamp of the Tembe Elephant Park, South Africa
Authors: Tarr J. A. , van Rooyen M. W. , Bothma J. du P.
Published: September 2004

Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud. has been harvested in the Muzi Swamp in Maputaland, South Africa for generations. Over the last ten years, however, a flourishing trade in this reed has developed. Concern has now been expressed that at the current levels of utilization the ecological integrity of the Muzi Swamp is being compromised, and that the current harvesting rates are not sustainable in the long term. The hypothesis was put forward that a degradation gradient exists with the most severe degradation occurring the closest to where community members enter the park, and the least degradation the furthest from this point. The results of this study, however, show no distinct degradation gradient. Yet the overall condition of the reeds in the harvesting area is poorer than in the non‐utilized area. Expansion of the current harvesting area, coupled with adaptive harvesting systems and yearly monitoring will improve the quality of the reeds within the harvesting area without affecting the harvesting quotas. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancement of area‐specific land‐use objectives for land development
Authors: Nidumolu U. B. , de Bie C. A. J. M. , van Keulen H. , Skidmore A. K.
Published: September 2004

Maps of land‐use classes and soil series were analysed to identify areas having specific priorities with respect to agricultural land‐use analysis. Remote sensing data supported by field investigations was used to generate land‐use and soil maps. Present relationships between soils and associated land cover/use are analysed and patterns in these relationships are identified using GIS techniques. Relationships observed on the basis of a priori knowledge of the area and the available statistics are compared and these relationships in the field and through interviews with farmers are correlated. This allows three land‐use analysis objectives to be formulated: crop management improvement; crop selection; and conservation. The results can be used to focus the efforts of planning and extension services in the area. The method was tested using a participatory rural appraisal in eighteen villages in which the areas for the three land‐use analysis objectives were identified. The findings are that the areas identified for crop management improvement require knowledge about management practices for a specific crop to optimize yield and water use. Most areas identified for crop selection are occupied by smallholder subsistence farmers with insufficient water for irrigation, and a lack of contact with the extension service. In these areas, identifying suitable crops to minimize risk and allow subsistence for the resource‐poor farmers may be the priority. In areas identified for conservation the question to be addressed is whether to grow a crop at all, or to encourage alternative activities. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How will patients be selected for transplantation in the future?
Authors: Lucey Michael R.
Published: September 2004

Key Points
Organ allocation for liver-intestine candidates
Authors: Horslen Simon
Published: September 2004

Key Points
Selection of candidates with HCC for transplantation in the MELD era
Authors: Sala Margarita , Varela Maria , Bruix Jordi
Published: September 2004

Key Points
Transplantation for hilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Heimbach Julie K. , Haddock Michael G. , Alberts Steven R. , Nyberg Scott L. , Ishitani Michael B. , Rosen Charles B. , Gores Gregory J.
Published: September 2004

Key Points
Does MELD work for relisted candidates?†
Authors: Edwards Erick , Harper Ann
Published: September 2004

Key Points
Graft Polymerization of Methacrylamide onto Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Fibers with Benzoyl Peroxide as Initiator and their Characterization
Authors: Ongun Nalan , Karakışla Meral , Aksu Levent , Saçak Mehmet
Published: September 2004

Summary: The effects of polymerization temperature and time, initiator and monomer concentrations, ratio of water and solvent employed on the grafting of methacrylamide onto poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibers by the use of benzoyl peroxide initiator were studied. The graft yield was observed to increase with temperature and monomer concentration. The highest graft yield was obtained with an initiator concentration of 1 × 10−2 mol/L. The rate of grafting was proportional to the power 0.48 and 1.6 of the methacrylamide and benzoyl peroxide concentrations, respectively. The overall activation energy for grafting calculated was 42.8 kcal/mol. The thermogravimetric data revealed that the thermal stability of poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibers decreased with grafting.

SEM micrographs of ungrafted PET fiber (a) and 44.9% MAAm‐grafted fiber (b).

magnified image

SEM micrographs of ungrafted PET fiber (a) and 44.9% MAAm‐grafted fiber (b).