bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect ofNigella SativaOil on Gentamicin Nephrotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Ali B. H.
Published: April 2004

The pathogenesis of gentamicin (GM) nephrotoxicity has been shown to involve the generation of oxygen free radicals, and several free radical scavengers have been shown to ameliorate the nephrotoxicity. The seeds and oil of Nigella sativa are reported to possess strong antioxidant properties and was effective against disease and chemically-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Therefore, in the present work, we have tested whether oral treatment of rats with N. sativa oil (0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 ml/kg/day for 10 days) would ameliorate nephrotoxicity of GM (80 mg/kg/day given intramuscularly and concomitantly with the oil during the last 6 days of treatment). Nephrotoxicity was evaluated histopathologically with a light microscope and by measurement of concentrations of urea, creatinine and total antioxidant status (TAS) in plasma and reduced glutathione (GSH) and TAS in kidney cortex. The results indicated that GM treatment caused moderate proximal tubular damage, significantly increased the concentrations of creatinine and urea, and decreased that of TAS and GSH. Treatment with N. sativa oil produced a dose-dependent amelioration of the biochemical and histological indices of GM nephrotoxicity that was statistically significant at the two higher doses used. Compared to controls, treatment of rats with N. sativa did not cause any overt toxicity, and it increased GSH and TAS concentrations in renal cortex and enhanced growth. The results suggest that N. sativa may be useful in ameliorating signs of GM nephrotoxicity in rats, and pending further experimentation to determine safety and efficacy, may be useful clinically.
The Aerobic Capacity and Ventilatory Efficiency During Exercise in Qigong and Tai Chi Chuan Practitioners
Authors: Lan Ching , Chou Shih-Wei , Chen Ssu-Yuan , Lai Jin-Shin , Wong May-Kuen
Published: April 2004

The objective of this study was to compare cardiorespiratory responses to exercise among older Qigong participants, Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) practitioners and normal sedentary controls during cycle ergometry. Thirty-six community-dwelling men with a mean age of 59.1±6.6 years participated in this study. Each group (Qigong, TCC and control) included 12 subjects with matched age and body size. The Qigong group practiced Qigong regularly for 2.3±1.5 years; the TCC group practiced Yang TCC for 4.7±2.3 years. Heart rate (HR) responses were measured during the practice of Qigong and TCC. Additionally, breath-by-breath measurement of cardiorespiratory function was performed during the incremental exercise of leg cycling. The mean HR during Qigong and TCC practice was 91±5 bpm and 129±7 bpm, respectively. At the peak exercise and the ventilatory threshold (VeT), TCC group displayed highest oxygen uptake [Formula: see text], O2pulse and work rate among the three groups. The Qigong group also showed higher oxygen uptake and O2pulse than the control group. At the same relative exercise intensity, the Qigong group had the highest tidal volume among the three groups. In conclusion, Qigong and TCC show a beneficial effect to aerobic capacity in older individuals, but TCC displays a better training effect than Qigong due to its higher exercise intensity. However, Qigong can enhance breathing efficiency during exercise due to the training effect of diaphragmatic breathing.
Relative Exercise Intensity of Tai Chi Chuan is Similar in Different Ages and Gender
Authors: Lan Ching , Chen Ssu-Yuan , Lai Jin-Shin
Published: April 2004

This study aims to determine the relative exercise intensity of classical Yang Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) in different ages and gender. One hundred TCC practitioners (54 men and 46 women) aged 25 to 80 years participated in this investigation. Men and women were separated into three groups: young (25–44 y/o), middle-aged (45–64 y/o) and elderly (65–80 y/o). Heart rate (HR) responses during TCC practice were measured by using electrocardiographic telemetry. An exercise test with breath-by-breath measurements of cardiorespiratory function was also performed for each subject during the incremental exercise of leg cycling. Measurements obtained during the TCC practice and exercise testing were compared to determine the exercise intensity of TCC. While performing TCC, the mean HR of men was 141±12 bpm, 132±9 bpm and 120±10 bpm in the young, middle-aged and elderly groups, respectively. Men practiced TCC with mean HR corresponding to 57.8±3.7%, 56.6±3.4% and 55.1±3.1% of heart rate reserve (HRR) in the three groups. Meanwhile, the mean HR of women was 136±10 bpm, 126±11 bpm and 115±12 bpm in the young, middle-aged and elderly groups, respectively. Women practiced TCC with mean HR corresponding to 52.7±2.8%, 51.5±2.6% and 50.3±2.9% of HRR in the three age groups. The results demonstrate that classical Yang TCC is an exercise with moderate intensity, and its exercise intensity is similar across different ages in each gender. In conclusion, TCC is an aerobic exercise and suitable for participants of different ages and gender to improve their functional capacity.
Electroacupuncture Analgesia for Surgery in Cattle
Authors: Kim Duck-Hwan , Cho Sung-Hwan , Song Kun-Ho , Lee Sang-Eun , Lee Seong-Ho , Kwon Geon-Oh , Kim In-Bong , Kim Young-Chan , Cho Jin-Haeng , Kwon Young-Yi , Kim Jae-Wung
Published: April 2004

To establish the proper analgesic method by electroacupuncture (EA) for bovine surgery, the analgesic effect of dorsal and lumbar acupoints, in addition to the combination with dorsal and lumbar acupoints, were investigated in the present study. Four Korean native cattle (two males and two females) and 24 Holstein-Friesian cattle (all females) were used. The experimental animals were divided into four groups according to used acupoints: dorsal acupoint group (Tian Ping [GV-20] and Bai Hui [GV-5]: 7 heads), lumbar acupoint group (Yap Pang 1 [BL-21], Yao Pang 2 [BL-23], Yao Pang 3 [BL-24] and Yao Pang 4 [BL-25]; 5 heads), dorsal-lumbar acupoint group (Yao Pang 1 [BL-21], Yao Pang 2 [BL-23], Yao Pang 3 [BL-24] and Bai Hui [GV-5]; 8 heads) and control group (non-acupoints, the last intercostals space and the femoral area; 3 heads). The acupoints were stimulated with currents of 2–6 V (30 Hz) in dorsal acupoint group, 0.5–2.0 V (30 Hz) in lumbar acupoint group and 0.3–2.5 V (30 Hz) in dorsal-lumbar acupoint group. Recumbency time was 10 seconds to 1 minute (except one case) and induction time of analgesia was approximately 1 to 6 minutes in dorsal acupoint group. Analgesic effect was systemic, including the extremities in dorsal acupoint group. During the EA, the consciousness was evident and blepharo-reaction was still present under EA in dorsal acupoint group. During the surgery, grades of analgesic effect were 6 excellent (6/7, 87.5%) and 1 good (1/7, 14.3%). In addition, induction time for analgesia was about 10 minutes in both lumbar and dorsal-lumbar acupoint groups. Analgesic areas were found in abdominal areas from the last intercostal spaces to the femoral areas, except lower abdomen in lumbar and lumbar-dorsal acupoint groups. The consciousness was evident and standing position was maintained during EA stimulation in contrast to that of dorsal excellent (1/5, 20.0%), 3 good (3/5, 60.0%) and 1 poor (1/5, 20.0%) in the lumbar acupoint group. Additionally, grades of analgesic effect were 4 excellent (4/8, 50.0%), 3 good (3/8, 37.5%) and 1 poor (1/8, 12.5%). On the other hand, pain was present and analgesia was not accomplished under EA stimulation in control group. In conclusion, analgesia by EA was effective with decreasing order of dorsal acupoint > dorsal-lumbar acupoint > lumbar acupoint among groups. It was considered that dorsal acupoint group might be useful for operation with recumbent position, and lumbar and dorsal-lumbar acupoint groups might be proper for operation with standing position.
The Soreness and Numbness Effect of Acupuncture on Skin Blood Flow
Authors: Kuo Tsun-Cheng , Lin Chii-Wann , Ho Feng-Ming
Published: April 2004

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the De-Qi sensations of acupuncture (sourness-distension and distension-numbness) stimulation. Fifty-two healthy medical student volunteers were given acupuncture at the Hoku (LI-4) acupoint as they were resting. During a test that lasted 30 minutes, their skin blood flow was measured at the Quchi (LI-11) acupoint and their palm temperature was measured. Our results indicated that acupuncture increased blood flow when the De-Qi sensation occurred. If the needle was twirled a few minutes thereafter and the De-Qi feeling again occurred, the same blood flow increase was seen again. If the needle was not twirled, but the test person felt soreness, numbness and heat sensation within a few minutes after needle insertion, the same blood flow increase was also seen. After acupuncture, Quchi did not show continuous increase of blood flow as did Hoku. Hoku acupuncture also increased palm temperature suggesting that the blood flow increased from cutaneous vessel vasodilation. In conclusion, when the test person felt the sore and numb De-Qi sensation, there was an increase of blood flow at the acupuncture points. Thus, our results suggest that increased flow may be one of the mechanisms accounting for meridian system responses during acupuncture.
SYMMETRY AND QED TESTS IN RARE ANNIHILATION MODES OF POSITRONIUM
Authors: VETTER PAUL A.
Published: April 2004

Recent experiments on positronium annihilation have confirmed QED calculations at high orders of α and tested discrete fundamental symmetries. These measurements search for rare modes of annihilation which are distinguished from backgrounds by their specific decay signatures. New developments in beyond Standard Model theory provide motivation for new measurements of such decays. A brief history of searches for rare annihilation modes of Ps is given. Recent experimental and theoretical developments are reviewed. Experiments currently being planned are discussed.
THE PENROSE LIMIT OF AdS×S SPACE AND HOLOGRAPHY
Authors: SIOPSIS GEORGE
Published: April 2004

In the Penrose limit, AdS ×S space turns into a Cahen–Wallach (CW) space whose Killing vectors satisfy a Heisenberg algebra. This algebra is mapped onto the holographic screen on the boundary of AdS. We show that the Heisenberg algebra on the boundary of AdS may be obtained directly from the CW space by appropriately constraining the states defined on it. The transformations generated by the constraint are similar to gauge transformations. The "holographic screen" on the CW space is thus obtained as a "gauge-fixing" condition.
A NOTE ON THE STRUCTURAL STABILITY OF TACHYONIC INFLATION
Authors: AGUIRREGABIRIA J. M. , LAZKOZ RUTH
Published: April 2004

We study the structural stability of tachyonic inflation against changes in the shape of the potential. Following Lidsey,10 the concepts of rigidity and fragility are defined through a condition on the functional form of the Hubble factor. We find that the models are rigid in the sense that the attractor solutions never change as long as the conditions for inflation are met.
ANN APPLICATION TO MODELING OF THE D/A AND A/D INTERFACE FOR MIXED-MODE BEHAVIORAL SIMULATION
Authors: LITOVSKI VANČO B. , ANDREJEVIĆ MIONA V. , PETKOVIĆ PREDRAG M. , DAMPER ROBERT I.
Published: April 2004

Artificial neural networks are applied for modeling the input and output circuits of the digital part of the digital–analog and analog–digital interface, respectively, in CMOS mixed-mode circuits. The generalization property of the neural networks is exploited to apply the models in a set of previously unknown situations, the most important being loading the model generated from the unloaded circuit. The models developed are applicable in mixed-signal behavioral simulations.
ACCELERATION OF QUANTUM ALGORITHMS USING THREE-QUBIT GATES
Authors: VARTIAINEN JUHA J. , NISKANEN ANTTI O. , NAKAHARA MIKIO , SALOMAA MARTTI M.
Published: April 2004

Quantum-circuit optimization is essential for any practical realization of quantum computation, in order to beat decoherence. We present a scheme for implementing the final stage in the compilation of quantum circuits, i.e. for finding the actual physical realizations of the individual modules in the quantum-gate library. We find that numerical optimization can be efficiently utilized in order to generate the appropriate control-parameter sequences which produce the desired three-qubit modules within the Josephson charge-qubit model. Our work suggests ways in which one can in fact considerably reduce the number of gates required to implement a given quantum circuit, hence diminishing idle time and significantly accelerating the execution of quantum algorithms.
ON OPTIMAL QUANTUM CODES
Authors: GRASSL MARKUS , BETH THOMAS , RÖTTELER MARTIN
Published: April 2004

We present families of quantum error-correcting codes which are optimal in the sense that the minimum distance is maximal. These maximum distance separable (MDS) codes are defined over q-dimensional quantum systems, where q is an arbitrary prime power. It is shown that codes with parameters 〚n, n - 2d + 2, d〛q exist for all 3≤n≤q and 1≤d≤n/2+1. We also present quantum MDS codes with parameters 〚q2, q2-2d+2, d〛q for 1≤d≤q which additionally give rise to shortened codes 〚q2-s, q2-2d+2-s, d〛q for some s.
MULTIPARTITE ENTANGLEMENT UNDER STOCHASTIC LOCAL OPERATIONS AND CLASSICAL COMMUNICATION
Authors: MIYAKE AKIMASA
Published: April 2004

Stochastic local operations and classical communication (SLOCC), also called local filtering operations, are a convenient, useful set of quantum operations in grasping essential properties of entanglement. We give a quick overview of the characteristics of multipartite entanglement in terms of SLOCC, illustrating the 2-qubit and the rest (2×2×n) quantum system. This not only includes celebrated results of 3-qubit pure states, but also has implications to 2-qubit mixed states.
FOUR PHOTON POLARIZATION ENTANGLEMENT TESTS AND APPLICATIONS
Authors: BOURENNANE M. , EIBL M. , GAERTNER S. , KURTSIEFER C. , WEINFURTER H. , CABELLO A. , GÜHNE O. , HYLLUS PH. , BRUß D. , LEWENSTEIN M. , SANPERA A.
Published: April 2004

Multipartite entangled states are key elements for quantum information processing. Here we experimentally investigate the particular properties of a polarization-entangled four-photon state, which can be generated directly by second order parametric down-conversion. The perfect correlations and the invariance under local transformations enable one to encode one qubit of quantum information in a decoherence-free subspace and thus to communicate it safely over noisy quantum channels. Furthermore, we present an experimental method to detect genuine fourpartite entanglement using entanglement witness operators. The implementation of such operators requires only of few local polarization measurements but uniquely proves the genuine multipartite entanglement.
SENSING AND MANIPULATING BUILT-FOR-HUMAN ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: BROOKS RODNEY , ARYANANDA LIJIN , EDSINGER AARON , FITZPATRICK PAUL , KEMP CHARLES C. , O'REILLY UNA-MAY , TORRES-JARA EDUARDO , VARSHAVSKAYA PAULINA , WEBER JEFF
Published: April 2004

We report on a dynamically balancing robot with a dexterous arm designed to operate in built-for-human environments. Our initial target task was for the robot to navigate, identify doors, open them, and proceed through them.
ARMAR II — A LEARNING AND COOPERATIVE MULTIMODAL HUMANOID ROBOT SYSTEM
Authors: DILLMANN RÜDIGER , BECHER REGINE , STEINHAUS PETER
Published: April 2004

This paper gives an overview on current and forthcoming research activities of the Collaborative Research Center 588 "Humanoid Robots — Learning and Cooperating Multimodal Robots" which is located in Karlsruhe, Germany. Its research activities can be divided into the following areas: mechatronic robot system components like lightweight 7 DOF arms, 5-fingered dexterous hands, an active sensor head and a spine type central body and skills of the humanoid robot system; multimodal man-machine interfaces; augmented reality for modeling and simulation of robots, environment and user; and finally, cognitive abilities. Some of the research activities are described in this paper, and we introduce the application scenario testing the robot system. In particular, we present a robot teaching center and the execution which is of type "household."
WHOLE-BODY DYNAMIC BEHAVIOR AND CONTROL OF HUMAN-LIKE ROBOTS
Authors: KHATIB O. , SENTIS L. , PARK J. , WARREN J.
Published: April 2004

With the increasing complexity of humanoid mechanisms and their desired capabilities, there is a pressing need for a generalized framework where a desired whole-body motion behavior can be easily specified and controlled. Our hypothesis is that human motion results from simultaneously performing multiple objectives in a hierarchical manner, and we have analogously developed a prioritized, multiple-task control framework. The operational space formulation10 provides dynamic models at the task level and structures for decoupled task and posture control.13 This formulation allows for posture objectives to be controlled without dynamically interfering with the operational task. Achieving higher performance of posture objectives requires precise models of their dynamic behaviors. In this paper we complete the picture of task descriptions and whole-body dynamic control by establishing models of the dynamic behavior of secondary task objectives within the posture space. Using these models, we present a whole-body control framework that decouples the interaction between the task and postural objectives and compensates for the dynamics in their respective spaces.
A PARALLEL DISTRIBUTED COGNITIVE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A HUMANOID ROBOT
Authors: KAWAMURA KAZUHIKO , PETERS II R. ALAN , BODENHEIMER ROBERT E. , SARKAR NILANJAN , PARK JUYI , CLIFTON CHARLES A. , SPRATLEY ALBERT W. , HAMBUCHEN KIMBERLY A.
Published: April 2004

During the last decade, researchers at Vanderbilt have been developing a humanoid robot called the Intelligent Soft Arm Control (ISAC). This paper describes ISAC in terms of its software components and with respect to the design philosophy that has evolved over the course of its development. Central to the control system is a parallel, distributed software architecture, comprising a set of independent software objects or agents that execute as needed on standard PCs linked via Ethernet. Fundamental to the design philosophy is the direct physical interaction of the robot with people. Initially, this philosophy guided application development. Yet over time it became apparent that such interaction may be necessary for the acquisition of intelligent behaviors by an agent in a human-centered environment. Concurrent to that evolution was a shift from a programmer's high-level specification of action toward the robot's own motion acquisition of primitive behaviors through sensory-motor coordination (SMC) and task learning through cognitive control and working memory. Described is the parallel distributed cognitive control architecture and the advantages and limitations that have guided its development. Primary structures for sensing, memory, and cognition are described. Motion learning through teleoperation and fault diagnosis through system health monitoring are also covered. The generality of the control system is discussed in terms of its applicability to physically heterogeneous robots and multi-robot systems.
MUTUAL TELEXISTENCE SYSTEM USING RETRO-REFLECTIVE PROJECTION TECHNOLOGY
Authors: TACHI SUSUMU , KAWAKAMI NAOKI , INAMI MASAHIKO , ZAITSU YOSHITAKA
Published: April 2004

Telexistence is fundamentally a concept named for the technology that enables a human being to have a real-time sensation of being at a place other than where he or she actually is, and to interact with the remote environment, which may be real, virtual, or a combination of both. It also refers to an advanced type of teleoperation system that enables an operator at the controls to perform remote tasks dexterously with the feeling of existing in a surrogate robot. Although conventional telexistence systems provide an operator the real-time sensation of being in a remote environment, persons in the remote environment have only the sensation that a surrogate robot is present, not the operator. Mutual telexistence aims to solve this problem so that the existence of the operator is apparent to persons in the remote environment by providing mutual sensations of presence. This paper proposes a method of mutual telexistence using projection technology with retro-reflective objects, and describes experimental hardware constructed to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method.
Evidence of a functional CFTR Cl−channel in adult alveolar epithelial cells
Authors: Brochiero Emmanuelle , Dagenais André , Privé Anik , Berthiaume Yves , Grygorczyk Ryszard
Published: April 2004

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is expressed in the fetal lung, but during lung development it gradually disappears in cells of future alveolar spaces. Recent studies have implicated the CFTR in fluid transport by the adult alveolar epithelium, but its presence has not been demonstrated directly. This study re-evaluated CFTR expression and activity in the adult pulmonary epithelium by using freshly isolated rat alveolar type II (ATII) cells. CFTR mRNA was detected by semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction on the day of cell isolation but was rapidly reduced by 60% after 24 h of cell culture. This was paralleled by a similar decrease of surfactant protein A expression and alkaline phosphatase staining, markers of the ATII cell phenotype. CFTR expression increased significantly on day 4 in cells grown on filters at the air-liquid interface compared with cells submerged or grown on plastic. Significantly higher CFTR expression was detected in distal lung tissue compared with the trachea. The CFTR was also found at the protein level in Western blot experiments employing lysates of freshly isolated alveolar cells. Whole cell patch-clamp experiments revealed cAMP-stimulated, 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)-benzoate-sensitive Cl−conductance with a linear current-voltage relationship. In cell-attached membrane patches with 100 μM amiloride in pipette solution, forskolin stimulated channels of ∼4 pS conductance. Our results indicate that 50–250 of functional CFTR Cl−channels occur in adult alveolar cells and could contribute to alveolar liquid homeostasis.
Potential role of APRIL as autocrine growth factor for megakaryocytopoiesis
Authors: Bonci Désirée , Hahne Michael , Felli Nadia , Peschle Cesare , De Maria Ruggero
Published: April 2004

A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) is a new tumor necrosis factor family member implicated in tumor cell proliferation. We investigated the role of APRIL in megakaryocytopoiesis, a developmental hematopoietic process responsible for progenitor cell differentiation to megakaryoblasts and megakaryocytes, leading to platelet formation. APRIL is not expressed in CD34+ progenitor cells from healthy donors, but it is massively up-regulated during the proliferative phase of megakaryocytic cell differentiation. Exogenous APRIL expression in primary cells increases megakaryocytic cell growth, suggesting that APRIL acts as a proliferative factor in megakaryocytopoiesis. More importantly, neutralization of endogenous APRIL was able to dramatically reduce megakaryocyte expansion and platelet production. Thus, our data provide evidence that APRIL acts as a growth factor for terminal megakaryocytopoiesis and may promote physiologic platelet production.
Well-being and instrumental activities of daily living after stroke
Authors: Sveen Unni , Thommessen Bente , Bautz-Holter Erik , Wyller Torgeir Bruun , Laake Knut
Published: April 2004

Objective: To explore the relationship between subjective well-being and competence in instrumental activities of daily living after stroke.

Design: Cross-sectional with evaluation at six months post stroke.

Subjects: Eighty-two patients admitted to an acute stroke unit, of whom 64 were seen at six months. The mean age was 77.5 years, 55% were females and 55% were living alone. Main outcome measures: The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-20 version), a well-being scale, was factor analysed and yielded three dimensions, named ‘coping’, ‘anxiety’ and ‘satisfaction’ that served as main outcomes.

Results: Explanatory variables were the four subscales of the Nottingham IADL scale, the Ullevaal Aphasia Screening test, urinary continence and demographics. Structural equation modelling showed that the GHQ dimension ‘satisfaction’ related significantly to the Nottingham subscale ‘leisure activities’ (β = -0.38, p= 0.01), whereas ‘coping’ was indirectly associated with ‘leisure activities’ by its correlation with ‘satisfaction’ (R= 0.26, p= 0.01). None of the outcomes were statistically associated with aphasia, continence or the background variables.

Conclusion: ‘Leisure activities’ demonstrated the strongest association to subjective well-being as expressed by the ‘satisfaction’ dimension. In stroke rehabilitation leisure activities should be addressed when assessing function and planning intervention.
The Trunk Impairment Scale: a new tool to measure motor impairment of the trunk after stroke
Authors: Verheyden G , Nieuwboer A , Mertin J , Preger R , Kiekens C , De Weerdt W
Published: April 2004

Objective: To examine the clinimetric characteristics of the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS). This newly developed scale evaluates motor impairment of the trunk after stroke. The TIS scores, on a range from 0 to 23, static and dynamic sitting balance as well as trunk co-ordination. It also aims to score the quality of trunk movement and to be a guide for treatment.

Design: Two physiotherapists observed each patient simultaneously, but scored independently. Each patient was re-examined by one of the therapists.

Subjects: Twenty-eight patients in a rehabilitation setting.

Results: Kappa and weighted kappa values for item per item reliability ranged for all but two, from 0.62 to 1. All percentages of agreement exceeded 81%. Intraclass correlations (ICC) for the summed scores of the different subscales were between 0.85 and 0.99. Test–retest and interobserver reliability for the TIS total score (ICC) was 0.96 and 0.99, respectively. The 95% limits of agreement for the test–retest and interexaminer measurement error were -2.90, 3.68 and -1.84, 1.84, respectively. Cronbach alpha coefficients for internal consistency ranged from 0.65 to 0.89. Content validity was defined. Spearman rank correlations with the Barthel Index (r5=0.86) and the Trunk Control Test (r5=0.83) was used to examine construct and concurrent validity, respectively.

Conclusions: Analysis of different clinimetric parameters support the use of the TIS in both clinical use and future stroke research. Guidelines for treatment and level of quality of trunk activity can be derived from the assessment.
Work, workfare, work/life balance and an ethic of care
Authors: Mcdowell Linda
Published: April 2004

In this paper, I build on Paul Cloke's (2002) provocative argument about the necessity of developing an ethical stance in human geography. I do this, however, through an assessment of the implications of a number of changes in the nature of the labour market in Great Britain, in the assumptions that lie behind welfare provision under New Labour and in the position of women and men in Britainrather than through an emphasis on the Christian values that infused Cloke's argument. I show how the dominance of an individualistic ethos pervades both the labour market and the welfare state, undermining notions of collective welfare and an ethic of care, within the wider context of the hegemony of a neoliberal ideology in global as well as national politics. If an ethic of care is to be (re)instituted, it will demand wide-reaching changes in the ways in which organizations and institutions operate at a range of spatial scales as well as new sets of responsibilities towards co-workers, members of households and the wider public. I conclude by considering some of the implications of such an ethic for everyday practices within the academy.
Institutions and disciplinary fortunes: two moments in the history of UK geography in the 1960s-II: human geography and the Social Science Research Council
Authors: Johnston Ron
Published: April 2004

Geography grew rapidly within the British university system during the 1950s and 1960s. In the middle of the latter decade, however, the discipline was initially excluded from the Social Science Research Council (SSRC). This essay looks at why such an ostensibly successful discipline was not incorporated in the initial plans and how a successful challenge led to its later acceptance in the SSRC. It shows that the acceptance was a consequence of individual initiative rather than representations from the discipline's learned societies, throwing further light (as discussed in the first paper in this pair) on their failure to promote the discipline during that key period.
Antiphospholipid antibodies in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: prevalence and clinical significance in a series of 74 patients
Authors: Fauchais A-L , Lambert M , Launay D , Michon-Pasturel U , Queyrel V , Nguyen N , Hebbar M , Hachulla E , Devulder B , Hatron P-Y
Published: April 2004

The aim of this study is to determine prevalence, clinical significance of antiphospholipidantibodies (aPL) including anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL), anti-b2GP1 and lupus anticoagulant (LA) in a cohort of 74 patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) according to revised European criteria. aPL were found in 25 (34%) patients; IgG in 23 (12 had low titres, six moderate titres and five high titres) and IgM in five (three and two had respectively moderate and high titres). Eight (11%) patients were found to have LA; anti-b2GP1 antibodies were detected only in three (4%) patients. Only two patients with LA, aPL and b2GP1 had recurrent venous thrombosis. One patient with moderate titres of aPL exhibited recurrent spontaneous foetal losses. Peripheral neuropathies without cryoglobulinemia were more frequent in the aPL group. Other systemic involvements of pSS were the same in both groups with or without aPL. Patients with aPL have more concurrentimmunological diseases such as thyroiditis and primary biliary cirrhosis and a higher prevalence of hypergammaglobulinemia (P < 0.05). Even if aPL prevalence reached 30% in pSS, titres were usually low, with a close correlation with hypergammaglobulinemia but not with antiphospholipid syndrome, which is related to positivity of both LA and aPL.
Possible mechanisms of gender bias in SLE: a new hypothesis involving a comparison of SLE with atopy
Authors: Sekigawa I , Naito T , Hira K , Mitsuishi K , Ogasawara H , Hashimoto H , Ogawa H
Published: April 2004

The prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is far higher in females than in males, and numerous investigations of this gender bias have been performed from several perspectives. Sex hormones, particularly estrogens, may be significant in causing the gender discrepancy. This article discusses the possible importance of estrogens in regulating the expression of and responsivity to autoantigens in SLE and in atopic disorders, which are associated with hyperreactivity to exogenous antigens. Estrogens seem to play an important role in the overexpressionof endogenousautoantigens, such as human endogenousretroviruses (HERV), and this may be related to the existence of a gender bias in the incidence of SLE but not atopy.
A Survey of Ethical Issues Experienced by Nurses Caring for Terminally Ill Elderly People
Authors: Enes S Patricia D , de Vries Kay
Published: April 2004

This study examined the ethical issues experienced by nurses working in a small group of elderly persons’ care settings in the UK, using a survey questionnaire previously used in other countries for examining the cultural aspects of ethical issues. However ‘culture’ relates not only to ethnicity but also the organizational culture in which care is delivered. Nurses working in elderly persons’ care settings described a range of issues faced when caring for elderly terminally ill people, which illustrated the different needs of patients, relatives, professionals and society. These issues related to the unique needs of elderly people (such as dementia sufferers) and could have an impact on patients’ quality of death.
Finnish Nurses’ Views on End-of-Life Discussions and a Comparison with Physicians’ Views
Authors: Hildén Hanna-Mari , Louhiala Pekka , Honkasalo Marja-Liisa , Palo Jorma
Published: April 2004

This study investigated Finnish nurses’ experiences and views on end-of-life decision making and compared them with physicians’ views. For this purpose, a questionnaire was sent to 800 nurses, of which 51% responded. Most of the nurses had a positive attitude towards and respect for living wills, more often than physicians. Most also believed that a will had an effect on decision making. Almost all of the nurses considered it their responsibility to talk to physicians about respecting living wills. Do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders were often interpreted to imply partial or complete palliative (symptom-orientated) care, which may cause confusion. Half of the nurses reported that a DNR decision was discussed always or often with a patient who was able to communicate; physicians were more positive in this respect. Surprisingly, many nurses (44%) stated that active treatment continued too long. Two-thirds thought that their opinions were taken into account sufficiently, even though only half believed that, in general, they had some impact.
Enantioselective Henry Reaction Catalyzed by Optically Active Ketoiminatocobalt Complexes
Authors: Kogami Youichi , Nakajima Takahiro , Ashizawa Tomoko , Kezuka Satoko , Ikeno Taketo , Yamada Tohru
Published: April 2004

In the presence of a catalytic amount of optically active ketoiminatocobalt complexes, the enantioselective Henry reaction proceeded to afford β-nitro alcohols in good-to-high yields with high enantioselectivities.
Improving Cyclability of 5 V Cathodes by Electrochemical Surface Modification
Authors: Eftekhari Ali
Published: April 2004

A simple electrochemical procedure is proposed for surface modification of cathode materials. A metal oxide-retaining layer deposited electrochemically on the electroactive material avoids its direct contact with the electrolyte. For 5 V cathodes, which are extremely oxidant at charged state, this action significantly enhances the cyclability. In addition, the own stability of the metal oxide-retaining layer deposited on the cathode surface has a significant effect on the cyclability, which can be enhanced by inducing a mechanical force during the electrodeposition process.
Formation and Characterization of Highly Strained Dibenzopentakisdehydro[14]annulene and Theoretical Study on Its Aromaticity
Authors: Hisaki Ichiro , Eda Takeshi , Sonoda Motohiro , Tobe Yoshito
Published: April 2004

Highly reactive dibenzopentakisdehydro[14]annulene was generated and its tropicity was discussed based on the experimental and theoretical NMR spectra.
Novel Synthesis and Bridgehead Functionalization of Permethylbicyclo[2.2.2]octasilane
Authors: Setaka Wataru , Hamada Natsuki , Kira Mitsuo
Published: April 2004

Selective bridgehead chlorination of permethylbicyclo[2.2.2]octasilane 1 giving the corresponding 1-chloro- (2a) and 1,4-dichlorobicyclooctanes 3a was achieved using BCl3 in chloroform. 1-Chlorobicyclooctane 2a resists the reactions with various nucleophiles such as phenyllithium and lithium aluminum hydride but reacts with KC8 affording the corresponding silylpotassium 2b in quantitative yield.
Recyclable Heterogeneous Rh/SiO2 Catalyst Enhanced by Organic PPh3 Ligand
Authors: Zhu Hejun , Ding Yunjie , Yan Li , Lu Yuan , Li Can , Bao Xinhe , Lin Liwu
Published: April 2004

Heterogeneous PPh3–Rh/SiO2 catalysts for hydroformylation of olefins, prepared by direct doping of phosphine onto the heterogeneous Rh/SiO2 precursor, exhibited high activity and selectivity towards aldehydes, which originated from chemical coordination bond between the phosphine and Rh metal nanoparticles on the SiO2 support.
A New Approach to Fabricate Sulfur Nanotubes
Authors: Jia Chong , Liu Weifeng , Jin Chuangui , Zhang Bei , Yao Lianzeng , Cai Weili , Li Xiaoguang
Published: April 2004

Sulfur nanotubes have been synthesized by injecting liquid sulfur into the gaps between the Zn nanowires and the surrounding nanochannels of an anodic alumina membrane (AAM) template under high CS2 vapor pressure.
Tridentate Aryloxide Ligands: New Supporting Ligands in Coordination Chemistry of Early Transition Metals
Authors: Matsuo Tsukasa , Kawaguchi Hiroyuki
Published: April 2004

The use of covalently linked multidentate ligands is a very useful concept in coordination and organometallic chemistry. This article gives an account of the syntheses and structures of metal complexes supported by linear-linked aryloxide trimer ligands, in which aryloxide units are connected at ortho positions through methylene linkers.
Visualizing an Artificial Recombination Pattern Formed by Localized Illumination in a Semiconductor
Authors: Sato Toshiyuki , Yokoyama Hidekatsu , Ohya Hiroaki
Published: April 2004

Electrically detected magnetic resonance (EDMR) imaging is a method to investigate the distribution of a paramagnetic recombination center in semiconductor materials. The EDMR image of a rectangular silicon plate (width, 2 mm; length, 20 mm; thickness, 0.5 mm; resistance, 5 kΩ·cm) was obtained under partial light illumination that was limited to the center of the sample. The sample had a native uniform distribution of paramagnetic recombination center and showed no EDMR signal without illumination. Low or high intensity area was located at the center (illuminated area) or sides (nonilluminated area) in the EDMR image. The patterns were the same when the opposite direction of the DC current was applied to the sample.
Wrapping of Bio-macromolecules (Dextran, Amylopectin, and Horse Heart Cytochrome c) with Ultrathin Silicate Layer
Authors: Ichinose Izumi , Hashimoto Yasuhiro , Kunitake Toyoki
Published: April 2004

We report a novel visualization technique of linear dextran and dendritic amylopectin structures by means of selective deposition of an ultrathin silicate layer along sugar chains. This technique was also useful for visualizing an isolated cytochrome c molecule.
Synthesis of Pt–Ru Nanoporous Fibers by the Nanoscale Casting Process Using Supercritical CO2 for Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: Wakayama Hiroaki , Hatanaka Tatsuya , Fukushima Yoshiaki
Published: April 2004

The Pt–Ru nanoporous fibers prepared by the nanoscale casting process using supercritical fluids (NC-SCF), templating process using SCFs, retained the structure with the high surface area and fibrous shape of the activated carbon template and exhibited a high activity as the anode catalyst for direct methanol fuel cells.
Annoyance of Low Frequency Noise (LFN) in the Laboratory Assessed by LFN-Sufferers and Non-Sufferers
Authors: Poulsen Torben
Published: April 2004

In a series of listening tests, test subjects listened to eight different environmental low frequency noises to evaluate their loudness and annoyance. The noises were continuous noise with and without tones, intermittent noise, music, traffic noise and low frequency noises with an impulsive character. The noises were presented at LAeq levels of 20, 27.5 and 35 dB. The main group of test subjects (the reference group) comprised eighteen young persons with normal hearing. A special group of four subjects who had reported annoyance due to low frequency noise in their homes was also included. It was found that the special group generally assessed the annoyance of the noises much higher, especially the annoyance at night.
Problems of Measurement and Evaluation of Low-Frequency Noise in Residential Buildings in the Light of Recommendations and the New European Standards
Authors: Mirowska Marianna
Published: April 2004

The paper covers the methods of measurement of noise from building equipment included in the drafts of the new European standards: pr EN ISO 10052 – survey method and pr EN ISO 16032 – engineering method. The results of acoustic surveys performed in several apartments are the basis for discussing the problems of measurement and evaluation of low frequency noise, in the light of the binding and the proposed measuring methods. The proposed assessment method for the noise spectrum is given.
Performance Analysis of Suspension Seats under High Magnitude Vibration Excitations: Part 1: Model Development and Validation
Authors: Rakheja S. , Boileau P.-É. , Wang Z. , Politis H.
Published: April 2004

Performance analyses of suspension seats subject to high magnitude excitations require particular modeling considerations associated with impacts against the motion limiting elastic buffers, possible loss of contact between the seat and the occupant, and component characterization over a wide range of inputs. In this study, three different suspension seats are considered to formulate a generalized model that would be applicable under low to high magnitude excitations. The static and dynamic characteristics are evaluated in the laboratory under a wide range of excitations and seat preloads. General model structures are proposed to characterize the components of the selected suspension seats as functions of the preload and nature of excitation. A general model for the suspension seats is formulated upon integration of the component models and consideration of the potential body-hop motions. The validity of the proposed model is examined under a number of excitations representing continuous random vibration environment of different vehicles, such as urban buses and class-1 construction machinery (EM1), and transient sprung mass oscillations in the vicinity of the suspension seat natural frequency. The validity of the model is further examined for all three seats subject to amplified excitations of the urban buses and the construction machinery. The results of the study suggest that the proposed model can be effectively applied to assess the suspension performance under high magnitude excitations that induce repetitive impacts with motion limiting buffers. The influences of various design parameters on the shock and vibration isolation performance of the selected suspension seats are presented in the second part of this work.
Research on the Application of Optimal Control Theory on Parameters Optimization of Vehicle Suspension
Authors: Yongjun Shen , Xiandong Liu , Shaopu Yang
Published: April 2004

Based on optimal control theory, an optimizing algorithm for the parameters of a traditional passive suspension system is presented. The method is firstly illustrated through a model of a two-degree-of-freedom vehicle system. Then the random excitation of the road to the tyre is investigated, which is obtained by processing the power spectrum density of known road roughness. The results of simulations show that this optimizing algorithm can improve the performance of suspension systems in comparison with traditional passive suspensions, whenever the vehicle is running on the sinusoidal or the random surface sated in this paper. Moreover, it is easy to modify the existing suspension system via the concept put forward in this paper. Therefore, the proposed method is particularly applicable to on existing suspension system that needs modification. Finally, the possibility of applying this method to other engineering fields is pointed out.
Cationized Lignocelluloses as Scavengers for Anionic Surfactants. I. Ionic Interactions
Authors: Zghida Haïfa , Gauthier Robert , Helal Ahmed
Published: April 2004

Various cationized lignocelluloses were used for the adsorption of anionic surfactants from wastewaters. The number of cationic sites anchored per g support governed the quantities of pollutant adsorbed. A rapid adsorption led to saturation of all the cationic sites and gave type I adsorption isotherms. Some parameters such as the pH or the temperature had a limited effect. Due to the strong ionic interaction, only partial desorption was observed under severe conditions, viz. when high ionic strength solutions were used at 60–80°C.
Removal of Zinc(II) by Activated Carbon Prepared from Almond Husks under Different Conditions
Authors: Hasar Halil , Cuci Yakup , Obek Erdal , Dilekoglu M. Fatih
Published: April 2004

Activated carbon was prepared from almond husks by activation at different temperatures in the absence (MAC-I) and presence (MAC-II) of H2SO4. The ability of the activated carbon to remove zinc(II) ions by adsorption from aqueous solutions was investigated, varying several conditions such as pH, the carbonisation temperature of the husk, the initial concentration of metal ions, the contact time and the adsorbent concentration. The optimum conditions were found to be a pH value of 5.5, a carbonisation temperature of 700°C, a contact time of 60 min and an adsorbent concentration of 4 g/l. The results obtained indicated that effective uptake of Zn(II) ions was achieved when the carbon prepared by heating almond husks at 700°C was activated by the addition of H2SO4. A 92% removal of Zn(II) ions was achieved at an initial concentration of 20 mg/l and an adsorbent concentration of 4 g/l. When the adsorbent concentration was increased to 40 g/l, the adsorption density decreased from 4.5 mg/g to 0.47 mg/g for MAC-II. The Langmuir and Freundlich constants were both calculated, and the data found to be fitted reasonably well by the Langmuir isotherm. The adsorption capacities for MAC-I and MAC-II as calculated from the Langmuir isotherm were 30.864 mg/g and 35.336 mg/g, respectively.
Adsorptive Distillation Using Molecular Sieves and Low-Cost Biobased Adsorbents for the Break-up of the Isopropanol–Water Azeotrope
Authors: Banat Fawzi , Al-Asheh Sameer , Al-Lagtah Nasir
Published: April 2004

The separation of isopropanol from aqueous vapours near the azeotropic composition was investigated using fixed beds packed with type A molecular sieves and biobased adsorbents. Natural palm stones, oak and corncobs were used as new biobased adsorbents. It was possible to break the azeotrope up using any of the afore-mentioned adsorbents. However, in terms of the breakthrough time and the purity of isopropanol in the condensate, the 3 Å molecular sieve was the best followed by 4 Å, palm stones, natural corncobs, natural oak and 5 Å molecular sieves. Activated carbons prepared from the biobased adsorbents showed a lower performance than their natural precursors.