bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Contribution of the Interannual ENSO Cycle to the Spatial Pattern of Decadal ENSO-Like Variability*
Authors: Vimont Daniel J.
Published: June 2005

A defining feature of Pacific decadal ENSO-like variability is the similarity between its spatial expression in sea surface temperature (SST) and the spatial structure of interannual ENSO variability. This similarity may indicate that the decadal variability is merely a long-term average over interannual ENSO variability. In contrast, subtle differences (namely the meridionally broadened tropical SST signature and emphasized midlatitude SST anomalies for the decadal ENSO-like pattern) may indicate that fundamentally different processes are responsible for generating variability on the decadal to interdecadal time scale. The present study attempts to reconcile the subtly different spatial structures of interannual ENSO and decadal ENSO-like variability by relating the decadal pattern to various SST patterns associated with the development of the interannual ENSO cycle. First, a statistical analysis is used to reconstruct the decadal ENSO-like SST pattern as a linear combination of interannual SST patterns. It is shown that the decadal ENSO-like pattern is well reconstructed in the absence of decadal spatial information. Next, these interannual patterns are physically interpreted in relation to the interannual ENSO cycle. The analysis reveals that the decadal ENSO-like SST pattern is obtained by averaging over three SST patterns associated with ENSO precursors, the peak of an ENSO event, and ENSO “leftovers.”

The study provides a plausible physical explanation for the spatial structure of ENSO-like decadal variability as an average over variations in the interannual ENSO cycle. The results indicate that the prominent spatial features of decadal ENSO-like variability are generated by physical mechanisms that operate through the interannual ENSO cycle. This does not imply, however, that decadal processes are unimportant in altering the decadal properties of ENSO. Results may provide a framework for interpreting modeled decadal ENSO-like variability and for constraining plausible mechanisms of tropical decadal variability.
Linearity of the Atmospheric Response to North Atlantic SST and Sea Ice Anomalies
Authors: Conil Sébastien , Li Laurent Z-X.
Published: June 2005

The observations of the ocean–atmosphere–sea ice have recently revealed that the oceanic surfaces can have a subtle but significant impact on the atmospheric long-term fluctuations. Low-frequency variations and long-term trends of the North Atlantic atmospheric circulation have been partly related to particular SST and sea ice features. In this work, the influence of typical tripolar SST and dipolar sea ice anomalies in the North Atlantic–Arctic on the atmosphere is investigated. A large ensemble of AGCM simulations forced by three different anomalous boundary conditions (SST, sea ice, and SST + sea ice) are used. The linearity of the simulated response in the winter season is particularly assessed.

In these experiments, while the winter low-level temperature response is mainly symmetric about the sign of the forcing, the asymmetric part of the geopotential response is substantial. The sea ice forcing maintains a baroclinic response with a strong temperature anomaly in the vicinity of the forcing but with a weak vertical penetration. The SST maintains an NAO-like equivalent barotropic temperature and geopotential height response that extends throughout the troposphere. It is also shown that the combination of the two forcings is mainly linear for the low-level temperature and nonlinear for the geopotential height. While the SST forcing seems to be the main contributor to the total temperature and geopotential height responses, the sea ice forcing appears to introduce significant nonlinear perturbations.
Aspects of Effective Mesoscale, Short-Range Ensemble Forecasting
Authors: Eckel F. Anthony , Mass Clifford F.
Published: June 2005

This study developed and evaluated a short-range ensemble forecasting (SREF) system with the goal of producing useful, mesoscale forecast probability (FP). Real-time, 0–48-h SREF predictions were produced and analyzed for 129 cases over the Pacific Northwest. Eight analyses from different operational forecast centers were used as initial conditions for running the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research (PSU–NCAR) Mesoscale Model (MM5).

Model error is a large source of forecast uncertainty and must be accounted for to maximize SREF utility, particularly for mesoscale, sensible weather phenomena. Although inclusion of model diversity improved FP skill (both reliability and resolution) and increased dispersion toward statistical consistency, dispersion remained inadequate. Conversely, systematic model errors (i.e., biases) must be removed from an SREF since they contribute to forecast error but not to forecast uncertainty. A grid-based, 2-week, running-mean bias correction was shown to improve FP skill through 1) better reliability by adjusting the ensemble mean toward the mean of the verifying analysis, and 2) better resolution by removing unrepresentative ensemble variance.

Comparison of the multimodel (each member uses a unique model) and varied-model (each member uses a unique version of MM5) approaches indicated that the multimodel SREF exhibited greater dispersion and superior performance. It was also found that an ensemble of unequally likely members can be skillful as long as each member occasionally performs well. Finally, smaller grid spacing led to greater ensemble spread as smaller scales of motion were modeled. This study indicates substantial utility in current SREF systems and suggests several avenues for further improvement.
The Theory of Trapped-Fetch Waves with Tropical Cyclones—An Operational Perspective
Authors: Bowyer Peter J. , MacAfee Allan W.
Published: June 2005

The majority of high wave events and almost all cases of extreme or phenomenal wave growth are the result of a high degree of synchronicity between moving storms and the waves that they generate. This wave containment or resonance phenomenon, referred to as trapped-fetch waves, has been known for generations, but not always well understood by forecasters. The twofold threat of trapped-fetch waves is that they have the potential for extreme growth, yet are unheralded by leading swell. Conceptual and numerical Lagrangian reference frame experiments on wave containment are presented, illustrating the influence on tropical cyclone ocean waves by three storm parameters: storm speed, wind speed, and fetch length. To further illustrate the concepts and provide real-time application, a simple, desktop Lagrangian trapped-fetch wave model, used for training and operational assessment of trapped-fetch waves, is described in a companion article.
Use of Synthetic Aperture Radar in Finescale Surface Analysis of Synoptic-Scale Fronts at Sea
Authors: Young G. S. , Sikora T. N. , Winstead N. S.
Published: June 2005

The viability of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) as a tool for finescale marine meteorological surface analyses of synoptic-scale fronts is demonstrated. In particular, it is shown that SAR can reveal the presence of, and the mesoscale and microscale substructures associated with, synoptic-scale cold fronts, warm fronts, occluded fronts, and secluded fronts. The basis for these findings is the analysis of some 6000 RADARSAT-1 SAR images from the Gulf of Alaska and from off the east coast of North America. This analysis yielded 158 cases of well-defined frontal signatures: 22 warm fronts, 37 cold fronts, 3 stationary fronts, 32 occluded fronts, and 64 secluded fronts. The potential synergies between SAR and a range of other data sources are discussed for representative fronts of each type.
Resources and the Information Problem in Rebel Recruitment
Authors: Weinstein Jeremy M.
Published: June 2005

How does the resource base of a rebel group impact its membership, structure, and behavior? While scholars, analysts, and policy makers increasingly link natural resources to the onset and duration of civil war, this article explores how resource endowments shape the character and conduct of rebel groups. This article identifies a rebel “resource curse” much like the one that undermines state institutions in resource-rich environments. While the presence of economic endowments makes it possible for leaders to recruit on the basis of short-term rewards, these groups are flooded with opportunistic joiners who exhibit little commitment to the long-term goals of the organization. In resource-poor environments, leaders attract new recruits by drawing on social ties to make credible promises about the private rewards that will come with victory. Opportunistic joiners stay away from these movements, leaving a pool of activist recruits willing to invest their time and energy in the hope of reaping large gains in the future.
Expressed sequence tags (ESTs) and simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers from octoploid strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa)
Authors: Folta Kevin M , Staton Margaret , Stewart Philip J , Jung Sook , Bies Dawn H , Jesdurai Christopher , Main Dorrie
Published: June 2005

Background

Cultivated strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) represents one of the most valued fruit crops in the United States. Despite its economic importance, the octoploid genome presents a formidable barrier to efficient study of genome structure and molecular mechanisms that underlie agriculturally-relevant traits. Many potentially fruitful research avenues, especially large-scale gene expression surveys and development of molecular genetic markers have been limited by a lack of sequence information in public databases. As a first step to remedy this discrepancy a cDNA library has been developed from salicylate-treated, whole-plant tissues and over 1800 expressed sequence tags (EST's) have been sequenced and analyzed.

Results

A putative unigene set of 1304 sequences – 133 contigs and 1171 singlets – has been developed, and the transcripts have been functionally annotated. Homology searches indicate that 89.5% of sequences share significant similarity to known/putative proteins or Rosaceae ESTs. The ESTs have been functionally characterized and genes relevant to specific physiological processes of economic importance have been identified. A set of tools useful for SSR development and mapping is presented.

Conclusion

Sequences derived from this effort may be used to speed gene discovery efforts in Fragaria and the Rosaceae in general and also open avenues of comparative mapping. This report represents a first step in expanding molecular-genetic analyses in strawberry and demonstrates how computational tools can be used to optimally mine a large body of useful information from a relatively small data set.
Immunomodulatory intervention in sepsis by multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa with thalidomide: an experimental study
Authors: Giamarellos-Bourboulis Evangelos J , Bolanos Nikolaos , Laoutaris George , Papadakis Vassilios , Koussoulas Vassilios , Perrea Despina , Karayannacos Panayotis E , Giamarellou Helen
Published: June 2005

Background

Thalidomide is an inhibitor of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) that has been proven effective for the treatment of experimental sepsis by Escherichia coli. It was tested whether it might behave as an effective immunomodulator in experimental sepsis by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Methods

Sepsis was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of 1 × 108 cfu/kg inoculum of the test isolate in a total of 109 Wistar rats divided in three groups as follows: group A controls; group B administered seed oil 30 minutes before bacterial challenge; and group C administered 50 mg/kg of thalidomide diluted in seed oil 30 minutes before bacterial challenge. Blood was sampled for estimation of endotoxins (LPS), TNFα, interferon-gamma (IFNγ), nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA). LPS was measured by the QCL-1000 LAL assay, TNFα and IFNγ by ELISA, NO by a colorimetric assay and MDA by the thiobarbiturate assay.

Results

Mean (± SE) survival of groups A, B and C were 18.60 ± 1.84, 12.60 ± 0.60 and 30.50 ± 6.62 hours (p of comparisons A to C equal to 0.043 and B to C equal to 0.002). Decreased TNFα and NO levels were found in sera of animals of group C compared to group A. Plasma levels of LPS, MDA and IFNγ did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

Intake of thalidomide considerably prolonged survival in experimental sepsis by MDR P.aeruginosa an effect probably attributed to decrease of serum TNFα.
An inactivated nuclease-like domain in RecC with novel function: implications for evolution
Authors: Rigden Daniel John
Published: June 2005

Background

The PD-(D/E)xK superfamily, containing a wide variety of other exo- and endonucleases, is a notable example of general function conservation in the face of extreme sequence and structural variation. Almost all members employ a small number of shared conserved residues to bind catalytically essential metal ions and thereby effect DNA cleavage. The crystal structure of the RecBCD prokaryotic DNA repair machinery shows that RecB contains such a nuclease domain at its C-terminus. The RecC C-terminal region was reported as having a novel fold.

Results

The RecC C-terminal region can be divided into an alpha/beta domain and a smaller alpha-helical bundle domain. Here we show that the alpha/beta domain is homologous to the RecB nuclease domain but lacks the features necessary for catalysis. Instead, the domain has a novel function within the nuclease superfamily – providing a hoop through which single-stranded DNA passes. Comparison with other structures of nuclease domains bound to DNA reveals strikingly different modes of ligand binding. The alpha-helical bundle domain contributes the pin which splits the DNA duplex.

Conclusion

The demonstrated homology of RecB and RecC shows how evolution acted to produce the present RecBCD complex through aggregation of new domains as well as functional divergence and structural redeployment of existing domains. Distantly homologous nuclease(-like) domains bind DNA in highly diverse manners.
Oral clefts with associated anomalies: findings in the Hungarian Congenital Abnormality Registry
Authors: Sárközi Andrea , Wyszynski Diego F , Czeizel Andrew E
Published: June 2005

Background

Over the years, great efforts have been made to record the frequency of orofacial clefts in different populations. However, very few studies were able to account for the etiological and phenotypic heterogeneity of these conditions. Thus, data of cases with syndromic orofacial clefts from large population-based studies are infrequent.

Methods

Clinically recognized and notified syndromes and associations including cleft lip with or without cleft palate and other congenital anomalies were selected from the Hungarian Congenital Abnormality Registry (HCAR) between 1973 and 1982 and prevalence rates were calculated.

Results

Of 3,110 cases reported as having orofacial clefts, 653 had multiple congenital abnormalities. Of these, 60 (9.2%) had a known etiology (monogenic: 25 or 3.8%, chromosomal: 31 or 4.7%, teratogenic: 4 or 0.6%). Seventy-three subjects (11.2%) had schisis in addition to the oral cleft. Skeletal anomalies were the most common malformations among cases with cleft lip with/without cleft palate (CL/P) and cleft palate (CP). Disorders of the central nervous system and cardiovascular malformations were also frequently associated.

Conclusion

Surveillance systems, such as the HCAR, provide useful information about prevalence rates of congenital anomalies in a population. However, in a field where new syndromes are being discovered and classifications regularly updated, these rates should only be accepted as provisional.
Nepal's War on Human Rights: A summit higher than Everest
Authors: Singh Sonal , Dahal Khagendra , Mills Edward
Published: June 2005

Nepal has witnessed serious human rights violations including arbitrary arrests, detentions, "disappearances", extra judicial executions, abductions and torture carried out by both the Royal Nepalese Army and the Maoist rebels in the 10 years of the "peoples war". Women and children have borne the brunt of the conflict. Massive displacement has led to adverse social and psychological consequences. While the reasons for the conflict are mainly indigenous and rooted in the social and economic in-equities, remedies for health inequities must come not only from the health sector but also from broad social policies and adopting a participatory and conflict-sensitive approach to development. Meanwhile the international community needs to use its leverage to urge both sides to accept a human rights accord and honor international human rights and humanitarian laws, while investigating allegations of abuse and prosecute those responsible.
Expression of TNF inhibitor gene in the lacrimal gland promotes recovery of tear production and tear stability and reduced immunopathology in rabbits with induced autoimmune dacryoadenitis
Authors: Trousdale Melvin D , Zhu Zenjin , Stevenson Douglas , Schechter Joel E , Ritter Thomas , Mircheff Austin K
Published: June 2005

Background

The most common cause of ocular morbidity in developed countries is dry eye, many cases of which are due to lacrimal insufficiency. Dry eye affects approximately 10 million in the United States., most of whom are women. In the U.S. alone, an estimated 2 million Sjögren's syndrome patients have dysfunctional lacrimal glands and severe dry eye, and there is no satisfactory treatment. These patients would benefit if their lacrimal tissue function could be restored.

Methods

The effect of adenovirus-mediated transfer of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitor gene on induced autoimmune dacryoadenitis was evaluated in a rabbit model. Soluble transgene protein was detected in tears by ELISA for 7 days following transduction.

Results

Two weeks after induction of disease with activated lymphocytes, tear production, as determined by Schirmer testing, was reduced by about 40%, while tear film stability, as measured by tear breakup time (BUT), declined by 43%. Adenovirus-mediated gene therapy using AdTNFRp55-Ig given 2 weeks after disease induction, resulted in the return of tear production to normal levels by week 4. In the treated disease group, tear BUT improved significantly by week 4. Rose bengal scores, an indicator of corneal surface defects, increased after disease induction and declined after gene therapy. In the lacrimal gland, the CD4 to CD8 T cell ratio was 4:1 in the disease group compared to 1:2 in the treated group. Infiltration of T cells and CD18+ cells was reduced approximately 50% after gene therapy.

Conclusion

We concluded that therapeutic levels of soluble TNF inhibitor were achieved in the lacrimal gland and on the corneal surface. Anti-inflammatory cytokine gene expression might offer a potential therapeutic modality for the treatment of autoimmune dacryoadenitis, once suitable vectors become available.
Personal customizing exercise with a wearable measurement and control unit
Authors: Wang Zhihui , Kiryu Tohru , Tamura Naoki
Published: June 2005

Background

Recently, wearable technology has been used in various health-related fields to develop advanced monitoring solutions. However, the monitoring function alone cannot meet all the requirements of customizing machine-based exercise on an individual basis by relying on biosignal-based controls. We propose a new wearable unit design equipped with measurement and control functions to support the customization process.

Methods

The wearable unit can measure the heart rate and electromyogram signals during exercise performance and output workload control commands to the exercise machines. The workload is continuously tracked with exercise programs set according to personally customized workload patterns and estimation results from the measured biosignals by a fuzzy control method. Exercise programs are adapted by relying on a computer workstation, which communicates with the wearable unit via wireless connections. A prototype of the wearable unit was tested together with an Internet-based cycle ergometer system to demonstrate that it is possible to customize exercise on an individual basis.

Results

We tested the wearable unit in nine people to assess its suitability to control cycle ergometer exercise. The results confirmed that the unit could successfully control the ergometer workload and continuously support gradual changes in physical activities.

Conclusion

The design of wearable units equipped with measurement and control functions is an important step towards establishing a convenient and continuously supported wellness environment.
Patient-initiated switching between private and public inpatient hospitalisation in Western Australia 1980 – 2001: An analysis using linked data
Authors: Moorin Rachael E , Holman C D'Arcy J
Published: June 2005

Background

The aim of the study was to identify any distinct behavioural patterns in switching between public and privately insured payment classifications between successive episodes of inpatient care within Western Australia between 1980 and 2001 using a novel 'couplet' method of analysing longitudinal data.

Methods

The WA Data Linkage System was used to extract all hospital morbidity records from 1980 to 2001. For each individual, episodes of hospitalisation were paired into couplets, which were classified according to the sequential combination of public and privately insured episodes. Behavioural patterns were analysed using the mean intra-couplet interval and proportion of discordant couplets in each year.

Results

Discordant couplets were consistently associated with the longest intra-couplet intervals (ratio to the average annual mean interval being 1.35), while the shortest intra-couplet intervals were associated with public concordant couplets (0.5). Overall, privately insured patients were more likely to switch payment classification at their next admission compared with public patients (the average rate of loss across all age groups being 0.55% and 2.16% respectively). The rate of loss from the privately insured payment classification was inversely associated with time between episodes (2.49% for intervals of 0 to 13 years and 0.83% for intervals of 14 to 21 years). In all age groups, the average rate of loss from the privately insured payment classification was greater between 1981 and 1990 compared with that between 1991 and 2001 (3.45% and 3.10% per year respectively).

Conclusion

A small but statistically significant reduction in rate of switching away from PHI over the latter period of observation indicated that health care policies encouraging uptake of PHI implemented in the 1990s by the federal government had some of their intended impact on behaviour.
Depression and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Authors: Schröder Carmen M , O'Hara Ruth
Published: June 2005

For over two decades clinical studies have been conducted which suggest the existence of a relationship between depression and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Recently, Ohayon underscored the evidence for a link between these two disorders in the general population, showing that 800 out of 100,000 individuals had both, a breathing-related sleep disorder and a major depressive disorder, with up to 20% of the subjects presenting with one of these disorders also having the other. In some populations, depending on age, gender and other demographic and health characteristics, the prevalence of both disorders may be even higher: OSA may affect more than 50% of individuals over the age of 65, and significant depressive symptoms may be present in as many as 26% of a community-dwelling population of older adults.

In clinical practice, the presence of depressive symptomatology is often considered in patients with OSA, and may be accounted for and followed-up when considering treatment approaches and response to treatment. On the other hand, sleep problems and specifically OSA are rarely assessed on a regular basis in patients with a depressive disorder. However, OSA might not only be associated with a depressive syndrome, but its presence may also be responsible for failure to respond to appropriate pharmacological treatment. Furthermore, an undiagnosed OSA might be exacerbated by adjunct treatments to antidepressant medications, such as benzodiazepines.

Increased awareness of the relationship between depression and OSA might significantly improve diagnostic accuracy as well as treatment outcome for both disorders. In this review, we will summarize important findings in the current literature regarding the association between depression and OSA, and the possible mechanisms by which both disorders interact. Implications for clinical practice will be discussed.
Executive and motivational processes in adolescents with Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Toplak Maggie E , Jain Umesh , Tannock Rosemary
Published: June 2005

Background

The objective of the current study was to examine performance and correlates of performance on a decision-making card task involving risky choices (Iowa Gambling Task) in adolescents with ADHD and comparison controls. Forty-four participants with ADHD and 34 controls were administered measures of estimated intellectual ability, working memory, and the card task. Also, behavioural ratings were obtained from parents and teachers.

Results

Adolescents with ADHD scored lower on the measures of intellectual ability, working memory, and made less advantageous selections on the card task compared to controls. Performance on measures of intellectual ability and working memory were unrelated to card task performance in both the ADHD and control samples. Parent ratings of hyperactivity/impulsivity were significantly associated with card task performance in the adolescents with ADHD, but not in controls.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate impaired decision-making in adolescents with ADHD, and the separability of motivational and executive function processes, supporting current dual pathway models of ADHD.
Prevalence of opioid adverse events in chronic non-malignant pain: systematic review of randomised trials of oral opioids
Authors: Moore R Andrew , McQuay Henry J
Published: June 2005

Adverse events of opioids may restrict their use in non-cancer pain. Analysis of the incidence of common adverse events in trials conducted in non-cancer pain has usually been limited to opioids used to treat severe pain according to the WHO three-step ladder. To examine the incidence of common adverse events of opioids in non-cancer pain, a systematic review and meta-analysis of information from randomised trials of all opioids in non-cancer pain was undertaken. Studies used were published randomised trials of oral opioid in non-cancer pain, with placebo or active comparator. Thirty-four trials with 5,546 patients were included with 4,212 patients contributing some information on opioid adverse events. Most opioids used (accounting for 90% of patients) were for treating moderate rather than severe pain. Including trials without a placebo increased the amount of information available by 1.4 times. Because of clinical heterogeneity in condition, opioid, opioid dose, duration, and use of titration, only broad results could be calculated. Use of any oral opioid produced higher rates of adverse events than did placebo. Dry mouth (affecting 25% of patients), nausea (21%), and constipation (15%) were the most common adverse events. A substantial proportion of patients on opioids (22%) withdrew because of adverse events. Because most trials were short, less than four weeks, and because few titrated the dose, these results have limited applicability to longer-term use of opioids in clinical practice. Suggestions for improved studies are made.
Guanine-nucleotide exchange on ribosome-bound elongation factor G initiates the translocation of tRNAs
Authors: Zavialov Andrey V , Hauryliuk Vasili V , Ehrenberg Måns
Published: June 2005

Background

During the translation of mRNA into polypeptide, elongation factor G (EF-G) catalyzes the translocation of peptidyl-tRNA from the A site to the P site of the ribosome. According to the 'classical' model, EF-G in the GTP-bound form promotes translocation, while hydrolysis of the bound GTP promotes dissociation of the factor from the post-translocation ribosome. According to a more recent model, EF-G operates like a 'motor protein' and drives translocation of the peptidyl-tRNA after GTP hydrolysis. In both the classical and motor protein models, GDP-to-GTP exchange is assumed to occur spontaneously on 'free' EF-G even in the absence of a guanine-nucleotide exchange factor (GEF).

Results

We have made a number of findings that challenge both models. First, free EF-G in the cell is likely to be in the GDP-bound form. Second, the ribosome acts as the GEF for EF-G. Third, after guanine-nucleotide exchange, EF-G in the GTP-bound form moves the tRNA2-mRNA complex to an intermediate translocation state in which the mRNA is partially translocated. Fourth, subsequent accommodation of the tRNA2-mRNA complex in the post-translocation state requires GTP hydrolysis.

Conclusion

These results, in conjunction with previously published cryo-electron microscopy reconstructions of the ribosome in various functional states, suggest a novel mechanism for translocation of tRNAs on the ribosome by EF-G. Our observations suggest that the ribosome is a universal guanosine-nucleotide exchange factor for EF-G as previously shown for the class-II peptide-release factor 3.
Monitoring manual control of electric lighting and blinds
Authors: Reinhart CF , Voss K
Published: June 2005

This paper reviews, validates and extends present knowledge of the degree and kind of manual control strategies of blinds and electric lighting systems that are used in private and two-person offices. A new monitoring setup was applied from March to December 2000 in 10 daylit offices in Germany that featured manually operated electric lighting and automatically controlled external venetian blinds with manual override. The data shows that individuals consistently followed the same control strategy for their electric lighting and blinds. Groups of individuals tended to activate their electric lighting according to Hunt’s probability function, although there was a large spread between individual control levels. All subjects used their blinds to avoid direct sunlight above 50 W/m2, and incoming solar gains above 50 klux (~450 W/m2). They also were more willing to accept automatic blind opening than closing.
Evaluation of Randomized Discontinuation Design
Authors: Freidlin Boris , Simon Richard
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Single-arm phase II trials may not be appropriate for testing cytostatic agents. We evaluate two kinds of randomized designs for the early development of target-based cytostatic agents.

Methods

We compared power of the randomized discontinuation and upfront randomization designs under two models for the treatment effect of targeted cytostatic agents.

Results

The randomized discontinuation design is not as efficient as upfront randomization if treatment has a fixed effect on tumor growth rate or if treatment benefit is restricted to slower-growing tumors. On the other hand, the randomized discontinuation design can be advantageous under a model where only a subset of patients, those expressing the molecular target, is sensitive to the agent. To achieve efficiency, the design parameters must be carefully structured to provide adequate enrichment of the randomly assigned patients.

Conclusion

With careful planning, the randomized discontinuation designs can be useful in some settings in the early development of targeted agents where a reliable assay to select patients expressing the target is not available.
Immunization With Mutantp53- andK-ras–Derived Peptides in Cancer Patients: Immune Response and Clinical Outcome
Authors: Carbone David P. , Ciernik I. Frank , Kelley Michael J. , Smith M. Charles , Nadaf Sorena , Kavanaugh Denise , Maher V. Ellen , Stipanov Michael , Contois David , Johnson Bruce E. , Pendleton C. David , Seifert Burkhardt , Carter Charley , Read Elizabeth J. , Greenblatt Jay , Top Lois E. , Kelsey Morris I. , Minna John D. , Berzofsky Jay A.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To determine the ability to induce tumor-specific immunity with individual mutant K-ras–or p53-derived peptides and to monitor clinical outcome.

Patients and Methods

Patients in varying stages of disease underwent genetic analysis for mutations in K-ras and p53. Thirty-nine patients were enrolled. Seventeen-mer peptides were custom synthesized to the corresponding mutation. Baseline immunity was assessed for cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) release from mutant peptide-primed lymphocytes. Patients' peripheral-blood mononuclear cells were pulsed with the corresponding peptide, irradiated, and applied intravenously. Patients were observed for CTL, IFN-γ, interleukin (IL) -2, IL-5, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor responses, for treatment-related toxicity, and for tumor response.

Results

No toxicity was observed. Ten (26%) of 38 patients had detectable CTL against mutant p53 or K-ras, and two patients were positive for CTL at baseline. Positive IFN-γ responses occurred in 16 patients (42%) after vaccination, whereas four patients had positive IFN-γ reaction before vaccination. Of 29 patients with evident disease, five experienced a period of stable disease. Favorable prognostic markers were detectable CTL activity and a positive IFN-γ reaction but not IL-5 release. Median survival times of 393 v 98 days for a positive versus negative CTL response (P = .04), respectively, and of 470 v 88 days for a positive versus negative IFN-γ response (P = .02), respectively, were detected.

Conclusion

Custom-made peptide vaccination is feasible without any toxicity. CTL and cytokine responses specific to a given mutation can be induced or enhanced with peptide vaccines. Cellular immunity to mutant p53 and K-ras oncopeptides is associated with longer survival.
What do psychotic experiences mean for young men? A qualitative investigation
Authors: Hirschfeld R. , Smith J. , Trower P. , Griffin C.
Published: June 2005

This study is of a grounded theory analysis of the transcripts of young men talking about their experience of psychosis. Six young men were interviewed twice during the critical period of 3–5 years following their first psychotic episode. The young men were asked to reflect on themselves and their lives before, during, and after having psychotic experiences. The transcripts were considered to have a phenomenological status, in that they represented the participants' perspectives on their experiences. Four themes emerged that were common to all the accounts: experience of psychosis, immediate expression of psychotic experiences, personal and interpersonal changes, and personal explanations. These themes are explored in detail, and their links with existing research and clinical implications are considered.
Expression of Endothelial NO Synthase, Inducible NO Synthase, and Estrogen Receptors Alpha and Beta in Placental Tissue of Normal, Preeclamptic, and Intrauterine Growth-restricted Pregnancies
Authors: Schiessl Barbara , Mylonas Ioannis , Hantschmann Peer , Kuhn Christina , Schulze Sandra , Kunze Susi , Friese Klaus , Jeschke Udo
Published: June 2005

In the physiology of placental blood circulation, nitric oxide (NO) synthases seem to play important roles, although their expression in pathological placentas and their role is still unclear. In addition, NO synthase activation seems to be related to estrogen receptor expression. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate the expression of estrogen receptors alpha (ERα), estrogen receptor beta (ER and the endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) placentas, preeclamptic placentas, and in normal healthy control placentas. Slides of paraffin-embedded placental tissue were obtained after delivery from patients diagnosed with IUGR, preeclampsia, and normal term placentas and analyzed for eNOS, iNOS as well as ERα and ERβ expression. Intensity of immunohistochemical reaction was analyzed using a semiquantitative score and statistical analysis was performed. In addition, Western blot experiments were performed for comparison of staining intensities obtained by immunohis-tochemistry and western blot. Expression of eNOS, iNOS, and ERβ is significantly reduced in trophoblast cells of placentas with IUGR. However, preeclamptic placentas demonstrated a significant elevated expression intensity of these proteins compared with normal controls. A different expression of eNOS, iNOS, ERα, and ERβ by human trophoblast cells seems to results in lower NO output and impaired trophoblast invasion. Results obtained in our study provide evidence that reduced expression of the investigated proteins is related to IUGR.
Cell Type-specific Expression of β-Carotene 9', 10'-Monooxygenase in Human Tissues
Authors: Lindqvist Annika , He Yu-Guang , Andersson Stefan
Published: June 2005

The symmetrically cleaving β-carotene 15, 15'-monooxygenase (BCO1) catalyzes the first step in the conversion of provitamin A carotenoids to vitamin A in the mucosa of the small intestine. This enzyme is also expressed in epithelia in a variety of extraintestinal tissues. The newly discovered β-carotene 9', 10'-monooxygenase (BCO2) catalyzes asymmetric cleavage of carotenoids. To gain some insight into the physiological role of BCO2, we determined the expression pattern of BCO2 mRNA and protein in human tissues. By immunohistochemical analysis it was revealed that BCO2 was detected in cell types that are known to express BCO1, such as epithelial cells in the mucosa of small intestine and stomach, parenchymal cells in liver, Leydig and Sertoli cells in testis, kidney tubules, adrenal gland, exocrine pancreas, and retinal pigment epithelium and ciliary body pigment epithelia in the eye. BCO2 was uniquely detected in cardiac and skeletal muscle cells, prostate and endometrial connective tissue, and endocrine pancreas. The finding that the BCO2 enzyme was expressed in some tissues and cell types that are not sensitive to vitamin A deficiency and where no BCO1 has been detected suggests that BCO2 may also be involved in biological processes other than vitamin A synthesis.
Despite Transcriptional and Functional Coordination, Cyclooxygenase-2 and Microsomal Prostaglandin E Synthase-1 Largely Reside in Distinct Lipid Microdomains in WISH Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ackerman IV William E. , Robinson John M. , Kniss Douglas A.
Published: June 2005

Cytokine-induced prostaglandin (PG)E2 synthesis requires increased expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in human WISH epithelial cells. Recently, an inducible downstream PGE synthase (microsomal PGE synthase-1, mPGES-1) has been implicated in this inflammatory pathway. We evaluated cooperation between COX-2 and mPGES-1 as a potential mechanism for induced PGE2 production in WISH cells. Cytokine stimulation led to increased expression of both enzymes. Selective pharmacological inhibition of these enzymes demonstrated that induced PGE2 release occurred through a dominant COX-2/mPGES-1 pathway. Unexpectedly, immunofluorescent microscopy revealed that the expression of these enzymes was not tightly coordinated among cells after cytokine challenge. Within cells expressing high levels of both mPGES-1 and COX-2, immunolabeling of high-resolution semithin cryosections revealed that COX-2 and mPGES-1 were largely segregated to distinct regions within continuous intracellular membranes. Using biochemical means, it was further revealed that the majority of mPGES-1 resided within detergent-insoluble membrane fractions, whereas COX-2 was found only in detergent-soluble fractions. We conclude that although mPGES-1 and COX-2 show transcriptional and functional coordination in cytokine-induced PGE2 synthesis, complementary morphological and biochemical data suggest that a majority of intracellular mPGES-1 and COX-2 are segregated to discrete lipid microdomains in WISH epithelial cells.
In love with Puppy: flowers, architecture, art, and the art of irony
Authors: Zulaika Joseba
Published: June 2005

Jeff Koons's installation, Puppy, symbolizes the move from modernism to postmodernism in contemporary Basque culture. It constitutes a break from the modernist aesthetics of artists such as Jorge Oteiza and Eduardo Chillida. The article argues that Puppy can only be understood from
an ironic perspective. The subversive potential of irony in Basque culture is contextualized in this article.
Culture-led strategies for urban regeneration: a comparative perspective on Bilbao
Authors: Keating Michael , Frantz Monika de
Published: June 2005

Culture is used as a development strategy in many European cities, a means to attract capital, to improve the image of the city, and to promote unity and cooperation. Like other strategies, it has winners and losers and, in its symbolic meanings, may provoke conflict.
Book Reviews
Authors: Haworth Jan , Kinsey Marie
Published: June 2005

Radio in Context, Guy Starkey, (2003) Basingstoke: Palgrave, Paperback ISBN 1-4039-0023-X, £16.99.

More than a Music Box: Radio Cultures and Communities in a Multi-Media World, Andrew Crisell (ed.), (2004)New York and Oxford: Berghahn Books, 315
pp., Hardback ISBN 1-57181-473-6, £40.
Data-Driven Modeling of Signal Strength Distributions for Localization in Cellular Radio Networks (Datengetriebene Modellierung von Feldstärkeverteilungen für die Ortung in zellulären Funknetzen)
Authors: Grigoraş Marian , Feiermann Olga , Hanebeck Uwe D.
Published: June 2005

In this article, we propose a novel approach to solving the localization problem in cellular networks, with a focus on indoor environments. The goal is to estimate a mobile user's position, based on measurements of signals received from different base stations. Our solution uses the Progressive Bayes estimation framework to model the distribution of signal measurements, as obtained in a series of calibration measurements. In the localization step, we compute the full probability density over the user position. We also show that user motion models can be easily integrated in our solution.
Ein Hand-Auge-System zur multisensoriellen Rekonstruktion von 3D-Modellen in der Robotik (An Eye-in-Hand System for Multisensor Surface Reconstruction of 3D-Models in Robotics)
Authors: Suppa Michael , Hirzinger Gerd
Published: June 2005

In diesem Artikel wird ein neuartiger Ansatz zur multisensoriellen Datenakquise und Datenfusion präsentiert. Der am DLR entwickelte multisensorielle 3D-Modellierer, der einen Laserscanner, einen Lichtschnittsensor, einen Textursensor und ein Stereo-Kamera-System enthält, sowie das Konzept, das Datenfusion mit diesem System ermöglicht, werden vorgestellt. Zur Bestimmung der Position und Orientierung des Modellierers im Raum wird alternativ ein optisches Trackingsystem oder ein passiver Messarm benutzt. Die mit dem handgeführten Modellierer gewonnene Erfahrung wird in einem zweiten Schritt auf ein robotergestütztes System zur vollautomatischen 3D-Modellierung (Inspektion) übertragen. Die robotergestützte multisensorielle Modellierung von Objekten unter Benutzung aller Roboterfreiheitsgrade wirft Probleme auf, die über die reine Modellierungsaufgabe hinaus gehen. Der Roboter soll einen möglichst großen Bewegungsspielraum besitzen, der auch nahe an a priori unbekannten oder nur teilweise bekannten Hindernissen garantiert werden muss. Dies beinhaltet eine effektive Planung von Roboterposen unter Berücksichtigung des Rauschverhaltens der verwendeten Sensoren.
Neuro-Fuzzy-basiertes multisensorielles Diagnosekonzept zur qualifizierten Schadensdiagnose an Abwasserkanälen (Neuro-Fuzzy based Multi Sensor Diagnosis Concept for Qualified Condition Assessment in Sewer Systems)
Authors: Frey Christian W. , Kuntze Helge-Björn
Published: June 2005

Eine umfassende qualifizierte Schadensdiagnose in kommunalen Kanalsystemen ist nur dann möglich, wenn die vorhandene TV-Technik durch zusätzliche Sensoren ergänzt wird. In dem von der deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft DFG geförderten Forschungsverbundvorhaben SAM wurden alternative Inspektionssensoren entwickelt und hinsichtlich ihrer Leistungsfähigkeit untersucht. Zur Integration der komplementären Sensorinformation zu einem ganzheitlichen Schadensbild wurde ein Neuro-Fuzzy-basiertes multisensorielles Diagnosekonzept entwickelt und erprobt, über das in diesem Beitrag berichtet wird.
Defense Reform in Taiwan: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Chase Michael S.
Published: June 2005

Taiwan has made some advances in implementing its defense reforms, but formidable obstacles to further progress still loom. Although the United States plays a crucial supporting role, it is Taiwan itself that must deal with its internal political and bureaucratic problems, which constitute the greatest impediments to reform.
Taiwan's Burgeoning Budget Deficit: A Crisis in the Making?
Authors: Chen Chien-Hsun
Published: June 2005

The Taiwan economy in recent years has been plagued by low or negative growth and rising structural unemployment, two kinds of turbulence that have been developing for some time. Underneath these economic woes is the even more serious problem of growing budget deficits that, if unchecked, could lead to a slippery road for Taiwan in the long run. Shrinking revenue and rising government spending in social welfare areas cause widening budget deficits. The continual swelling of these deficits is an important area requiring reform.
NORTH AND SOUTH, EAST AND WEST
Authors: MARKOVITS STEFANIE
Published: June 2005

Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South was composed from the Nightingale family residence even as the war being fought in the Crimea (from 1854 to 1856) was making Florence Nightingale into a national heroine. Reading the novel in the context of the Crimean War and of Gaskell's involvement with Nightingale helps both to historicize the book more precisely and to illuminate the moment of its production. North and South occludes the foreign con�ict even as it takes advantage of aspects of that con�ict in order to tell its story of the "civil wars" at home: those between North and South, masters and men, past and present, and men and women. The reading culminates in an analysis of the relationship between Margaret Hale and Florence Nightingale. To consider the "thread of dark-red blood" that trickles down Margaret's face in the climactic riot scene of North and South as a replacement for the "thin red line" made famous as a symbol of heroism at Balaclava is to recognize the Crimean War as a part of the Condition of England.
On Nature, Music, and Meaning in Debussy's Writing
Authors: Dayan Peter
Published: June 2005

This article sets out to examine what Debussy wrote about music in the light of the discourse on music, literature, and nature that Debussy knew from contemporary literature. It becomes apparent that Debussy shares with, for example, MallarmŽ a refusal to consider that his work renders natural scenes present. Indeed, he rejects entirely the notion that music can or should represent anything (when it appears to represent, it is, precisely, not music). Debussy accordingly despises programs and critics who look in his music for images or ideas that they expect him to have put there. Why, then, does he give his pieces programmatic titles? And how is one to understand the relationship between words and music, for example, in PellŽas et MŽlisande? The answer emerges from an analysis of the special relationship that Debussy constructs between music and nature. On the one hand, Debussy tells us that "art is the most beautiful of lies"; accordingly, music never tells us any specific articulated truth about nature. On the other hand, the dynamics of our perception of nature, in which we see through specific features, as poetry might articulate them, to an inexpressible totality, a "mouvement total de la nature," is the best analogue for the process of musical creation, which traverses sense toward an ideal unity beyond the articulation of meaning. Our duty, then, would be to look past the expression of the words associated with Debussy's music, not to find in the music an extension or repetition of the words' meaning, but to sense, between as well as beyond them, an echo of that ideal unity.