bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic structure and electrical conductivity of MgO protecting layer in plasma‐display panels: A tight‐binding quantum chemical study
Authors: Miyamoto Akira , Kikuchi Hiromi , Onuma Hiroaki , Tsuboi Hideyuki , Koyama Michihisa , Hatakeyama Nozomu , Endou Akira , Takaba Hiromitsu , Kubo Momoji , Del Carpio Carlos A.
Published: April 2007

Abstract— The tight‐binding quantum chemical molecular dynamics code, Colors, has been successfully applied to the electronic‐structure calculations of the MgO‐protecting‐layer model in plasma‐display panels (PDPs). The code succeeded in reproducing the band‐gap energy of the MgO crystal structure. The energy gap between the bottom of the conduction band (CB) and the top of valence band (VB) was 7.45 eV, which is in quantitative agreement with the experimental and previous theoretical results. The electronic structure of the undoped MgO model and Si‐doped MgO model was also calculated. The impurity level was 2.15 eV lower than that for the bottom of the CB. This result was in qualitative agreement with recent cathodoluminescence measurements. In addition, we have already succeeded in developing a novel electrical conductivity simulator using the spatial distribution of the probability density of wave functions obtained from the tight‐binding quantum chemical molecular dynamics code, Colors. The electrical conductivity of the MgO‐protecting‐layer model was estimated with and without an oxygen defect and a significant change in the electrical conductivity of the MgO‐protecting‐layer materials was observed with the introduction of oxygen defects.
Spatial optical modulator (SOM): Samsung's light modulator for next‐generation laser displays
Authors: Yun Sang Kyeong
Published: April 2007

Abstract—A new type of diffractive spatial optical modulators (SOMs) has been developed for projection‐display and other applications such as holographic data storage, programmable lithography, and optical communications. It exhibits the inherent advantages of fast response time and high‐performance light modulation, suitable for high‐quality and high‐resolution projection displays. The ±1st‐order efficiency and contrast ratio of 39% and 1000:1 was achieved for a prototype SOM. The response time can be as fast as 0.7μsec with a 400‐nm displacement, enough to make a full‐HD display, being driven by 10‐V. A laser display in full‐HD format (1920 × 1080) was successfully demonstrated by using prototype projection engines having SOM devices, signal‐processing circuits, and projection optics.
Macrofungi diversity in cork-oak and holm-oak forests in Andalusia (southern Spain); an efficient parameter for establishing priorities for its evaluation and conservation
Authors: Ortega Antonio , Lorite Juan
Published: April 2007

In this work, the fungal diversity of holm-oak and cork-oak woodlands in southern Spain is studied in order to analyse the macrofungi component and its ecological characteristics, as well as to establish priorities for its conservation. For this, we have compiled published as well as unpublished data, and applied compositional analysis and statistical methods (basic statistics, non-parametric and multivariate analyses). Priority areas were selected based on complementarity analysis. As a result, 838 taxa were recorded, 78.6% in cork-oak and 76.4% in holm-oak forests, with 55.1% in common. The ratio of mycorrhizal to saprophitic species indicated that cork-oak woodlands present a higher diversity and conservation degree of its macrofungal community than holm-oak woodlands, since the mycorrhizal component is more important for the conservation of these forests (due to nutritional relations). Both forests types appear well differentiated in the multivariate analysis. In the complementarity analysis, with only one site, we recorded 40% of the total species encountered. The percentage increased to 80% with four sites. This type of approach, by highlighting the important areas for conservation of fungal diversity, constitutes a powerful tool to optimise conservation efforts.
The effect of TGF-β1 and Smad7 gene transfer on the phenotypic changes of rat alveolar epithelial cells
Authors: Xu Guo-Ping , Li Qing-Quan , Cao Xi-Xi , Chen Qi , Zhao Zhong-Hua , Diao Zi-Qiang , Xu Zu-De
Published: April 2007

The aim of this study was to investigate whether transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) could induce alveolar epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro, and whether Smad7 gene transfer could block this transition. We also aimed to elucidate the possible mechanisms of these processes. The Smad7 gene was transfected to the rat type II alveolar epithelial cell line (RLE-6TN). Expression of the EMT-associated markers was assayed by Western Blot and Real-time PCR. Morphological alterations were examined via phase-contrast microscope and fluorescence microscope, while ultrastructural changes were examined via electron microscope. TGF-β1 treatment induced a fibrotic phenotype of RLE-6TN with increased expression of fibronectin (FN), α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and vimentin, and decreased expression of E-cadherin (E-cad) and cytokeratin19 (CK19). After transfecting the RLE-6TN with the Smad7 gene, the expression of the mesenchymal markers was downregulated while that of the epithelial markers was upregulated. TGF-β1 treatment for 48 h resulted in the separation of RLE-6TN from one another and a change into elongated, myofibroblast-like cells. After the RLE-6TN had been transfected with the Smad7 gene, TGF-β1 treatment had no effect on the morphology of the RLE-6TN. TGF-β1 treatment for 48 h resulted in an abundant expression of α-SMA in the RLE-6TN. If the RLE-6TN were transfected with the Smad7 gene, TGF-β1 treatment for 48 h could only induce a low level of α-SMA expression. Furthermore, TGF-β1 treatment for 12 h resulted in the degeneration and swelling of the osmiophilic multilamellar bodies, which were the markers of type II alveolar epithelial cells. TGF-β1 can induce alveolar epithelialmesenchymal transition in vitro, which is dependent on the Smads signaling pathway to a certain extent. Overexpression of the Smad7 gene can partially block this process
Stilbene derivatives inhibit the activity of the inner mitochondrial membrane chloride channels
Authors: Koszela-Piotrowska Izabela , Choma Katarzyna , Bednarczyk Piotr , Dołowy Krzysztof , Szewczyk Adam , Kunz Wolfram , Malekova Lubica , Kominkova Viera , Ondrias Karol
Published: April 2007

Ion channels selective for chloride ions are present in all biological membranes, where they regulate the cell volume or membrane potential. Various chloride channels from mitochondrial membranes have been described in recent years. The aim of our study was to characterize the effect of stilbene derivatives on single-chloride channel activity in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The measurements were performed after the reconstitution into a planar lipid bilayer of the inner mitochondrial membranes from rat skeletal muscle (SMM), rat brain (BM) and heart (HM) mitochondria. After incorporation in a symmetric 450/450 mM KCl solution (cis/trans), the chloride channels were recorded with a mean conductance of 155 ± 5 pS (rat skeletal muscle) and 120 ± 16 pS (rat brain). The conductances of the chloride channels from the rat heart mitochondria in 250/50 mM KCl (cis/trans) gradient solutions were within the 70–130 pS range. The chloride channels were inhibited by these two stilbene derivatives: 4,4′-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (DIDS) and 4-acetamido-4′-isothiocyanostilbene-2,2′-disulfonic acid (SITS). The skeletal muscle mitochondrial chloride channel was blocked after the addition of 1 mM DIDS or SITS, whereas the brain mitochondrial channel was blocked by 300 μM DIDS or SITS. The chloride channel from the rat heart mitochondria was inhibited by 50–100 μM DIDS. The inhibitory effect of DIDS was irreversible. Our results confirm the presence of chloride channels sensitive to stilbene derivatives in the inner mitochondrial membrane from rat skeletal muscle, brain and heart cells.
A new species of Falcaustra (Nematoda, Kathlaniidae) and other nematodes from Sphenomorphus simus (Squamata, Scincidae) from Papua New Guinea
Authors: Bursey Charles , Goldberg Stephen , Kraus Fred
Published: April 2007

Falcaustra papuensis sp. nov. (Ascaridida, Kathlaniidae) from the large intestine of Sphenomorphus simus (Squamata, Sciencidae) is described and illustrated. Falcaustra papuensis represents the 4th Australo-Papuan species assigned to this genus and is distinguished from other Australo-Papuan species by the distribution pattern of caudal papillae (6 precloacal, 6 adcloacal, 8 postcloacal, and 1 median), length of spicules (561–714 μm) and presence of a pseudosucker. Sphenomorphus simus was found to harbor 2 additional species of nematodes, Meteterakis crombiei and Oswaldocruzia bakeri. Sphenomorphus simus represents a new host record for each of these nematode species.
Hematoma resolution as a target for intracerebral hemorrhage treatment: Role for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ in microglia/macrophages
Authors: Zhao Xiurong , Sun Guanghua , Zhang Jie , Strong Roger , Song Weitao , Gonzales Nicole , Grotta James C. , Aronowski Jaroslaw
Published: April 2007

Objective

Phagocytosis is necessary to eliminate the hematoma after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH); however, release of proinflammatory mediators and free radicals during phagocyte activation is toxic to neighboring cells, leading to secondary brain injury. Promotion of phagocytosis in a timely and efficient manner may limit the toxic effects of persistent blood products on surrounding tissue and may be important for recovery after ICH.

Methods

Intrastriatal blood injection in rodents and primary microglia in culture exposed to red blood cells were used to model ICH and to study mechanisms of hematoma resolution and phagocytosis regulation by peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) in microglia/macrophages.

Results

Our study demonstrated that the PPARγ agonist, rosiglitazone, promoted hematoma resolution, decreased neuronal damage, and improved functional recovery in a mouse ICH model. Microglia isolated from murine brains showed more efficient phagocytosis in response to PPARγ activators. PPARγ activators significantly increased PPARγ‐regulated gene (catalase and CD36) expression, whereas reducing proinflammatory gene (tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β, matrix metalloproteinase‐9, and inducible nitric oxide synthase) expression, extracellular H2O2 level, and neuronal damage. Phagocytosis by microglia was significantly inhibited by PPARγ gene knockdown or neutralizing anti‐CD36 antibody, whereas it was enhanced by exogenous catalase.

Interpretation

PPARγ in macrophages acts as an important factor in promoting hematoma absorption and protecting other brain cells from ICH‐induced damage. Ann Neurol 2007;61:352–362
A novel potential cationic polymeric gene vector containing hydroxy groups and all grades of amino groups
Authors: Wu Chuanbao , Hao Jianyuan , Deng Xianmo , Liu Yu
Published: April 2007

A novel potential cationic polymeric gene vector, PCT, was synthesized by copolymerizing 3‐chloro‐1,2‐epoxypropane (CEP) and tetraethylene pentamine (TEPA). The protonizable nitrogen content of PCT is 17.7 mmol/g at 1 : 1 of CEP to TEPA, lower than 23.3 mmol/g of polyethylenimine (PEI) but higher than 7.8 mmol/g of polylysine, which indicates PCT is a candidate of polycation with high‐content but discrete charge after protonation. PCT has many hydrophilic quaternized amino and hydroxy groups contributing to hydrophilicity. Acid base titration showed that PCT was protonated in both pH 7.4–11 and pH 5.0–7.4 and had “proton sponge effect.” In aqueous solution, PCT complexed with weak anionic polymer, poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), into nanoparticles. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy proved the formation of complex. Particle size is first increased and then decreased as increasing mass ratio θ of PCT to PAA from 0.1 to 1.7, as shown by dynamic light scattering. At θ values of more than 1.7 or less than 0.2, complex particles with mean diameter less than 200 nm were obtained. At θ of 0.5, the UV‐Vis absorbance of complex solution at first day was obviously higher than that at 7 day, while at θ of 1.7, two absorbance curves at these two time points had slightly smaller change, indicating that small complex particles were more stable than large ones because of electrostatic repulsion. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Computational methods in protein structure prediction
Authors: Floudas C.A.
Published: April 2007

This review presents the advances in protein structure prediction from the computational methods perspective. The approaches are classified into four major categories: comparative modeling, fold recognition, first principles methods that employ database information, and first principles methods without database information. Important advances along with current limitations and challenges are presented. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2007;97: 207–213. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Visual LinProg: A web‐based educational software for linear programming
Authors: Lazaridis Vassilios , Paparrizos Konstantinos , Samaras Nikolaos , Sifaleras Angelo
Published: April 2007

Visual LinProg is an educational tool that solves linear problems (LPs), using animation and visualization techniques. The core of the proposed software includes the well‐known class of simplex type algorithms. This tool is a Web‐based software and hence platform independent. Visual LinProg was initially invented to be used in mathematical programming courses to supplement the teaching. The user‐student can solve his own general LPs, view the solution process step‐by‐step, and import or export his own examples in an easy way to read format. The solution process is covered scholastically through textual information and also the necessary steps from the pseudo code are depicted, using multiple views. In this study, we describe Visual LinProg and how it is used in educational purposes. Finally, we present an evaluation of the proposed educational tool. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 15: 1–14, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20084
A virtual machining based training system for numerically controlled machining
Authors: Yao Yingxue , Li Jianguang , Liu Changqing
Published: April 2007

The development of numerically controlled (NC) machining training systems based‐on virtual machining technology is presented for supporting training of trainee to acquire the theoretical know‐how, practical skills, and the problem troubleshooting techniques on the usage of NC machines and NC programming. The architecture, underlying theoretical basis for the development of training system based‐on virtual machining is described. Several digital NC machining training systems had been developed and are practiced in the authors' university and in a professional training center. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 15: 64–72, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20097
Educational software to design shafts and analyze them by FEM
Authors: Álvarez‐Caldas Carolina , García José Luis San Román , Abella Belén Muñoz , González Alejandro Quesada
Published: April 2007

In this article, an educational computer application to dimension shafts is presented. Safety factors according to several classic theories can be obtained by indicating shaft dimensions and particular discontinuities, as grooves or holes. Specifying the desired security factor, necessary dimensions can be calculated. One of the advantages of the educational software developed is that text files created by it can be directly imported to the FEM software ANSYS so as to analyze stress distribution of the shaft. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 15: 99–106, 2007; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae.20101
‘Not in my name’? The Italians and the war in Iraq
Authors: Roccato Michele , Fedi Angela
Published: April 2007

We performed a secondary analysis of data collected on a representative sample of Italians to study the attitudes and behaviours developed by the Italians with regard to war in general and the war in Iraq particularly. Moreover, we built a model predicting the probability of participating in pro‐peace demonstrations. The Italians seem polarized in their attitudes towards war and skeptical concerning the reasons for the attack on Iraq. Our models explained the probability of publicly showing one's opposition to the war in Iraq in terms of beliefs towards war in general, of attitude towards this conflict particularly, of frequency of newspaper‐reading and of values, showing that the sociodemographic and psychological variables played a significantly less relevant role. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Heat Conveyance Mechanism and Applications
Authors: Kong S.‐T. , Dong Q.‐W. , Liu M.‐S. , Zhu Q.
Published: April 2007

The application of heat conveyance is presented under the assumption of low velocity and viscosity, and the factors affecting heat transfer are analyzed. Methods for reducing the flow resistance and increasing the efficiency of integrated heat transfer are presented after the characteristics of the vertical flow field are analyzed. The distributing rules of liquid flowing in the tube and heat transfer are obtained by numerical simulation, which shows that a full tube has the highest integrated heat transfer coefficient when the twisted‐tape insert is ca. 500–600 mm. The analyses indicate that the length of the twisted‐tape insert leads to a wide range of performance, i.e., a higher heat transfer coefficient can be obtained or the floating resistance can be lowered according to the actual working conditions. A higher level of integrated heat transfer coefficient is still maintained under such conditions. The above analyses indicate that the application of heat conveyance could guide the design of new enhanced heat transfer structures.
Degradation of Chlorocarbons Driven by Hydrodynamic Cavitation
Authors: Wu Z.‐L. , Ondruschka B. , Bräutigam P.
Published: April 2007

To provide an efficient lab‐scale device for the investigation of the degradation of organic pollutants driven by hydrodynamic cavitation, the degradation kinetics of chloroform and carbon tetrachloride and the increase of conductivity in aqueous solutions were measured. These are values which were not previously available. Under hydrodynamic cavitation conditions, the degradation kinetics for chlorocarbons was found to be pseudo first‐order. Meanwhile, C‐H and C‐Cl bonds are broken, and Cl2, Cl., Cl– and other ions released can increase the conductivity and enhance the oxidation of KI in aqueous solutions. The upstream pressures of the orifice plate, the cavitation number, and the solution temperature have substantial effects on the degradation kinetics. A decreased cavitation number can result in more cavitation events and enhances the degradation of chlorocarbons and/or the oxidation of KI. A decrease in temperature is generally favorable to the cavitation chemistry. Organic products from the degradation of carbon tetrachloride and chloroform have demonstrated the formation and recombination of free radicals, e.g., CCl4, C2Cl4, and C2Cl6 are produced from the degradation of CHCl3. CHCl3 and C2Cl6 are produced from the degradation of CCl4. Both the chemical mechanism and the reaction kinetics of the degradation of chlorocarbons induced by hydrodynamic cavitation are consistent with those obtained from the acoustic cavitation. Therefore, the technology of hydrodynamic cavitation should be a good candidate for the removal of organic pollutants from water.
Micro‐Scale Modeling of a Functionally Graded Ni‐YSZ Anode
Authors: Ni M. , Leung M. K. H. , Leung D. Y. C.
Published: April 2007

A mathematical model was developed to investigate the coupled transport and electrochemical reactions in a nickel‐yttrial‐stablized zirconia (Ni‐YSZ) anode for use in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The modeling results were consistent with experimental data from the literature. Comparison between conventional non‐graded (uniform random composites) and two types of functionally graded electrodes (FGE), namely particle size graded and porosity graded SOFC anodes were conducted to evaluate the potential of FGE for SOFC. Improved performance of both types of FGE was observed due to reduced mass transport resistance and increased volumetric reactive surface area close to the electrode‐electrolyte interface. It was found that the particle size graded SOFC anode showed the best performance. This paper demonstrates that the SOFC performance could be enhanced by modifying the microstructures of the electrodes. The results presented in this paper provide a better understanding of the working mechanisms of SOFC electrodes and could serve as an important reference for design optimizations.
Novel Process Options for Application of Zeolites in Supercritical Fluids and Ionic Liquids
Authors: Gläser R.
Published: April 2007

Supercritical fluids and ionic liquids offer attractive opportunities for modifying and applying zeolites as adsorbents and catalysts. After a brief introduction to the most important properties of these solvents, examples of zeolite applications in supercritical fluids and ionic liquids from the recent literature are discussed. Particular emphasis is put on the influence of reaction media on the processes occurring in the zeolitic pore systems, e.g., during shape‐selective conversions in zeolite catalysts. The present potential and future challenges for the application of zeolites in supercritical fluids and ionic liquids are identified. Most attractive process options arise from a combined use of both ionic liquids and supercritical fluids in integrated reaction schemes.
Preparation and Characterization of Bi3+‐TiO2 and its Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Zuo H. , Sun J. , Deng K. , Su R. , Wei F. , Wang D.
Published: April 2007

Bi3+‐TiO2 photocatalysts were prepared by doping bismuth ion into the TiO2 structure in a sol‐gel process. The catalyst samples were then characterized by UV‐vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Rodamine‐B (RhB) was used in this study as a model chemical with the aim of organic pollutants control. The photocatalytic degradation of RhB demonstrated that an optimal loading of bismuth 0.7 at. % achieved the highest photodegradation rate, with the rate constant increasing by a factor of 3.89 over neat TiO2 (P25) under UV illumination (λ ≥ 320 nm). The degradation of p‐nitrobenzonic acid (pNBA) was also examined to prevent/preclude/exclude/ the photosensitization pathway. GC‐MS results show that pNBA can be effectively degraded and minerized to small molecules, such as quinone, acetic acid and formic acid.
Generation of a conditional knockout allele for mammalian Spen protein Mint/SHARP
Authors: Yabe Daisuke , Fukuda Hitoshi , Aoki Misayo , Yamada Shuichi , Takebayashi Shinji , Shinkura Reiko , Yamamoto Norio , Honjo Tasuku
Published: April 2007

The Spen protein family is found in worms, flies, and mammals, and is implicated in diverse biological processes from embryogenesis to aging. Spen proteins have three N‐terminal RNA recognition motifs and a C‐terminal SPOC domain. The mammalian Spen proteins Mint and its human ortholog SHARP interact with the Notch‐signaling mediator RBP‐J as well as Msx2 and several unliganded nuclear hormone receptors, and impart transcription‐repressing activity to these molecules by recruiting corepressors through the SPOC domain. Despite these in vitro findings, Mint/SHARP's physiological role is largely unknown, because Mint germline knockouts are embryonic lethal. To analyze Mint/SHARP function in postnatal mice, we created Mint‐floxed mice that allow the Cre/loxP‐mediated conditional knockout of Mint. We analyzed Mint and RBP‐J epistasis during Notch‐dependent splenic B‐lymphocyte development, and found that Mint suppresses Notch signaling through RBP‐J. In addition, Mint deficiency caused severe hypoplasia in postnatal brain, suggesting it may regulate neuronal cell survival. genesis 45:300–306, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
HPRT minigene generates chimeric transcripts as a by‐product of gene targeting
Authors: Holcomb Valerie B. , Kim Tae Moon , Dumitrache Lavinia C. , Ma Sheng‐Mei , Chen Ming‐Jiu , Hasty Paul
Published: April 2007

The HPRT minigene is a selection cassette used for gene targeting in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells and, it is unique since selection may be applied for its presence and absence. This minigene has two exon clusters separated by a small intron and splicing sequences. We find these exon clusters splice into exons from the target gene forming two different classes of chimeric transcripts. The first class is expressed by the endogenous promoter and includes upstream target gene exons spliced into minigene exons 3–8. The second class is expressed by the minigene's PGK promoter and includes minigene exons 1–2 spliced into downstream target gene exons. These chimeric transcripts may produce chimeric proteins that could influence phenotype. Therefore, we have designed two floxed HPRT minigenes that permit removal of either the 5′ half of the minigene or the entire minigene via Cre‐mediated recombination. genesis 45:275–281, 2007. Published 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Facial expressions of emotions: a methodological contribution to the study of spontaneous and dynamic emotional faces
Authors: Tcherkassof Anna , Bollon Thierry , Dubois Michel , Pansu Pascal , Adam Jean‐Michel
Published: April 2007

This paper addresses methodological considerations relevant to nonverbal communication of emotion research. In order to gather more information about the interpretations given to spontaneous and dynamic facial expressions, two main objectives guide the present exploratory research. The first one is to obtain naturalistic recordings of emotional expressions in realistic settings that are ‘emotional enough’. The second one is to address the issue of dynamic judgments of facial expressions of emotion, that is real‐time emotional recognition. An innovative device has been created for this specific purpose. Results show that, although the social nature of the eliciting situation is minimal, the experience of some emotions is reflected on the encoders' faces while being covertly videotaped in natural conditions. Moreover, results show the utility to investigate dynamic emotional judgments of spontaneous and dynamic expressions since observers seem to be sensitive to the slightest facial expression change in making their emotional judgments. A promising paradigm is thus proposed for the study of the dynamics of real‐time nonverbal emotional interaction. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are two informants better than one? Parent–child agreement on the eating styles of children who are overweight
Authors: Braet Caroline , Soetens Barbara , Moens Ellen , Mels Saskia , Goossens Lien , Van Vlierberghe Leen
Published: April 2007

Aim

It is currently unknown to what extent the view of a child with overweight on its' own eating behaviour converges with parental perception regarding this behaviour and how parent–child agreement is influenced by overweight status and age.

Method

Youngsters (N = 498; range 7–15 years; 37% boys) referred for weight treatment to an outpatient University centre filled in the Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire—child version (DEBQ‐child version; Van Strien & Braet, unpublished work), prior to treatment, while their parents reported on their child's eating behaviour by completing the DEBQ‐parent version (Braet & Van Strien, 1997).

Results

Parents scored significantly higher when reporting on the emotional eating and external eating behaviour of their child, while they scored lower for restrained eating (all p < 0.001). Comparisons between the subscales of the DEBQ‐parent version and the DEBQ‐child version revealed significant positive correlations of r = 0.45 for emotional eating, r = 0.35 for external eating and r = 0.36 for restrained eating (all p < 0.01); convergence is lowest for the age group younger than 10 (p < 0.05). Both versions of the DEBQ displayed low correlations with the degree of overweight of the child.

Discussion

Parents and children displayed moderate to good agreement with regard to emotional eating, external eating and restrained eating. However when only one perspective can be assessed, possible biases must be taken into account. In that case, the use of appropriate age‐specific norms is indicated. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Comparison of landslide susceptibility maps generated through multiple logistic regression for three test areas in Korea
Authors: Lee Saro
Published: April 2007

The aim of this study was to apply, verify and compare a multiple logistic regression model for landslide susceptibility analysis in three Korean study areas using a geographic information system (GIS). Landslide locations were identified by interpreting aerial photographs, satellite images and a field survey. Maps of the topography, soil type, forest cover, lineaments and land cover were constructed from the spatial data sets. The 14 factors that influence landslide occurrence were extracted from the database and the logistic regression coefficient of each factor was computed. Landslide susceptibility maps were drawn for these three areas using logistic regression coefficients derived not only from the data for that area but also using those for each of the other two areas (nine maps in all) as a cross‐check of method validity. For verification, the results of the analyses were compared with actual landslide locations. Among the nine cases, the Janghung exercise using the logistic formula and the coefficient for Janghung had the greatest accuracy (88·44%), whereas Janghung results, when considered by the logistic formula and the coefficient for Boeun, had the least accuracy (74·16%). Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A combined simulation–genetic algorithm optimization model for optimal rule curves of a reservoir: a case study of the Nam Oon Irrigation Project, Thailand
Authors: Suiadee Watchara , Tingsanchali Tawatchai
Published: April 2007

A combined simulation–genetic algorithm (GA) optimization model is developed to determine optimal reservoir operational rule curves of the Nam Oon Reservoir and Irrigation Project in Thailand. The GA and simulation models operate in parallel over time with interactions through their solution procedure. A GA is selected as an optimization model, instead of traditional techniques, owing to its powerful and robust performance and simplicity in combining with a simulation technique. A GA is different from conventional optimization techniques in the way that it uses objective function information and does not require its derivatives, whereas in real‐world optimization problems the search space may include discontinuities and may often include a number of sub‐optimum peaks. This may cause difficulties for calculus‐based and enumerative schemes, but not in a GA. The simulation model is run to determine the net system benefit associated with state and control variables.

The combined simulation–GA model is applied to determine the optimal upper and lower rule curves on a monthly basis for the Nam Oon Reservoir, Thailand. The objective function is maximum net system benefit subject to given constraints for three scenarios of cultivated areas. The monthly release is calculated by the simulation model in accordance with the given release policy, which depends on water demand. The optimal upper and lower rule curves are compared with the results of the HEC‐3 model (Reservoir System Analysis for Conservation model) calculated by the Royal Irrigation Department, Thailand, and those obtained using the standard operating policy. It was found that the optimal rule curves yield the maximum benefit and minimum damages caused by floods and water shortages. The combined simulation–GA model shows an excellent performance in terms of its optimization results and efficient computation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The relationships of antisocial behavior with attachment styles, autonomy‐connectedness, and alexithymia
Authors: Bekker Marrie H. J. , Bachrach Nathan , Croon Marcel A.
Published: April 2007

The present study was aimed at investigating the relationships among attachment styles, autonomy‐connectedness (self‐awareness, sensitivity to others, and capacity for managing new situations), alexithymia, and antisocial behavior among 202 college students (67 men and 135 women). We were particularly interested in sex differences in the levels of these variables as well as their associations. Sex differences were expected in types of insecure attachment styles, patterns of autonomy‐connectedness, and levels of self‐reported antisocial and passive‐aggressive behavior. All expected sex differences were indeed found. Furthermore, the model that we hypothesized was partly confirmed: For men, anxious attachment had a stronger direct and positive effect on antisocial behavior than for women, and the positive effect of anxious attachment on passive‐aggressive behavior was smaller for women than for men. Interestingly, capacity for managing new situations had a main and mediating effect on antisocial behavior. Sensitivity to others appeared as a mediator between anxious attachment style and passive‐aggressive behavior. Contrary to expectations, fantasizing (a component of alexithymia) had a strong, negative association with antisocial behavior. The results are discussed against the background of other recent findings concerning alexithymia and autonomy‐ connectedeness. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
The voices acceptance and action scale (VAAS): Pilot data
Authors: Shawyer Frances , Ratcliff Kirk , Mackinnon Andrew , Farhall John , Hayes Steven C. , Copolov David
Published: April 2007

Acceptance and mindfulness methods that emphasise the acceptance rather than control of symptoms are becoming more central to behavioural and cognitive therapies. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is the most developed of these methods; recent applications of ACT to psychosis suggest it to be a promising therapeutic approach. However, investigation of the mechanisms of therapy within this domain is difficult because there are no acceptance‐based measures available specifically for psychotic symptoms. This paper describes the preliminary evaluation of a self‐report instrument designed to assess acceptance‐based attitudes and
actions in relation to auditory and command hallucinations. Following initial scale development, a 56‐item version of the Voices Acceptance and Action Scale (VAAS) was administered to 43 participants with command hallucinations as part of their baseline assessment in a larger trial. Measures of symptoms, quality of life, and depression were also administered. The scale was examined for reliability using corrected item total statistics. Based on this method, 31 items were retained. Internal consistency and test‐retest reliability for the 31‐item VAAS were acceptable. Subsequent examination of construct validity showed the VAAS to correlate significantly in the expected directions with depression, quality of life, and coping with command hallucinations. It also discriminated compliance from non‐compliance with harmful command hallucinations. Although these results are preliminary and subject to a number of limitations, the VAAS shows promise as a useful aid in the assessment of the psychological impact of voices. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Health disparities and culturally specific treatment: Perspectives and expectancies of African American smokers
Authors: Webb Monica S. , Francis Joan , Hines Bill C. , Quarles Frankie B.
Published: April 2007

Researchers suggest that culturally specific (CS) interventions are important in addressing smoking‐related health disparities. Yet, little research has examined the perspectives of African American smokers regarding these efforts. This qualitative study sought to gain insight into perceptions related to (a) the smoking prevalence among African Americans, (b) smoking‐related health disparities, (c) expectancies for CS interventions, (d) methods of recruiting research participants, and (e) key intervention components. Six focus groups were conducted with 41 African American smokers (aged 21–64) at a community health center. Content analyses revealed several themes, including the perception that smoking is normative among African Americans, limited knowledge of racial health disparities, mixed perceptions regarding race as a risk factor for illness, and mixed expectancies for the efficacy of CS interventions. In conclusion, individual differences, such as smoking norms, knowledge of health disparities, and intervention expectations may influence receptivity to CS treatments. Implications for tobacco interventions among African Americans are discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Autoalignment of intervertebral disks
Authors: Peschl Simone , Mader Irina , Strecker Ralph , Hennig Jürgen
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To develop an automated planning method to obtain double oblique slices for clinically relevant diagnoses of spine‐related pathologies.

Materials and Methods

Thirty healthy volunteers, 18 patients with cervical spine (c‐spine) pathologies, and 15 patients with lumbar spine (l‐spine) pathologies were included in this study. The planning method requires no interaction and is calculated online on the MR scanner after two sagittal acquisitions (a MR myelogram and standard T2‐weighted (T2W) acquisition). The planning of the subsequent double oblique slice packets is calculated automatically. The results from the volunteers were evaluated visually by an operating technician. The results obtained in a clinical trial from interactive planning by an operating technician and from automated planning were compared.

Results

Visual assessment of the planned slices in the T2W images of all subjects confirmed the accuracy and robustness of the method for both applications. The differences in positions and orientations between interactively and automatically planned transverse series were within the range of interindividual variability.

Conclusion

he new approach can be used to automatically plan double oblique MR images for examination of spine‐related pathologies with high reliability and robustness. The major advantage is that simultaneous planning in the transversal–coronal and transversal–sagittal orientations can be performed without any additional measurement. Another advantage is that standardized localization of the nerve roots in the center of the image can be obtained. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;25:938–946. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessing normal pulse wave velocity in the proximal pulmonary arteries using transit time: A feasibility, repeatability, and observer reproducibility study by cardiovascular magnetic resonance
Authors: Bradlow William M. , Gatehouse Peter D. , Hughes Ray L. , O'Brien Aoife B. , Gibbs John S.R. , Firmin David N. , Mohiaddin Raad H.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To calculate pulse wave velocity (PWV) in the proximal pulmonary arteries (PAs) by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) using the transit‐time method, and address respiratory variation, repeatability, and observer reproducibility.

Materials and Methods

A 1.9‐msec interleaved phase velocity sequence was repeated three times consecutively in 10 normal subjects. Pulse wave (PW) arrival times (ATs) were determined for the main and branch PAs. The PWV was calculated by dividing the path length traveled by the difference in ATs. Respiratory variation was considered by comparing acquisitions with and without respiratory gating.

Results

For navigated data the mean PWVs for the left PA (LPA) and right PA (RPA) were 2.09 ± 0.64 m/second and 2.33 ± 0.44 m/second, respectively. For non‐navigated data the mean PWVs for the LPA and RPA were 2.14 ± 0.41 m/second and 2.31 ± 0.49 m/second, respectively. No statistically significant difference was found between respiratory non‐navigated data and navigated data. Repeated on‐table measurements were consistent (LPA non‐navigated P = 0.95, RPA non‐navigated P = 0.91, LPA navigated P = 0.96, RPA navigated P = 0.51). The coefficients of variation (CVs) were 12.2% and 12.5% for intra‐ and interobserver assessments, respectively.

Conclusion

One can measure PWV in the proximal PAs using transit‐time in a reproducible manner without respiratory gating. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;25:974–981. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of myocarditis by contrast‐enhanced MRI in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome but no coronary stenosis
Authors: Codreanu Andrei , Djaballah Wassila , Angioi Michael , Ethevenot Gérard , Moulin Frederic , Felblinger Jacques , Sadoul Nicolas , Karcher Gilles , Aliot Etienne , Marie Pierre Y.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To prospectively assess the use of cardiac MRI with delayed contrast enhancement (DCE) for identifying patients with active myocarditis among those presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) but no coronary stenosis.

Materials and Methods

A total of 27 consecutive patients (age = 45 ± 17 years; 14 male) presenting with ACS (chest pain, positive troponin‐I) and no coronary stenosis, underwent cardiac MRI 9 ± 7 days after pain onset and 8 ± 5 months later (N = 19). Steady‐state free‐precession pulse (SSFP) sequence was applied for the assessment of myocardial function and both inversion‐recovery (IR) and SSFP sequences were used for analyzing the topography and extent of DCE areas. Rest sestamibi‐gated‐single photon emission CT (SPECT) was also systematically performed.

Results

Subepicardial DCE pattern typical of acute myocarditis was documented in 12 patients (44%). Ischemic DCE pattern (transmural or subendocardial focal DCE) was documented in 12 of the 15 remaining patients (44%). Patients with subepicardial DCE had: higher C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels (38 ± 32 vs. 14 ± 24 mg/mL; P = 0.04), lower Framingham cardiovascular risk (3 ± 3% vs. 9 ± 5%; P < 0.001), lower incidence of perfusion SPECT defects (17% vs. 73%; P = 0.01), higher left ventricular (LV) end‐diastolic volume (77 ± 16 vs. 64 ± 10 mL/m2; P = 0.02), and higher regression of DCE areas at follow‐up (−65 ± 17% vs. −18 ± 23%; P = 0.002).

Conclusion

DCE pattern of active myocarditis can be seen in patients presenting with ACS but no coronary stenosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;25:957–964. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple regression method for pulmonary apparent diffusion coefficient measurement by hyperpolarized 3He MRI
Authors: Yu Jiangsheng , Ishii Masaru , Kadlecek Stephen , Lipson David A. , Emami Kiarash , Clark Timothy W. , Rajaei Sheeva , Rizi Rahim R.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To develop and validate a new multiple regression technique for the separation of flip angle effect in pulmonary apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurement.

Materials and Methods

Hyperpolarized 3He MRI (HP 3He MRI) ADC measurements were performed on phantom, pig, and human models. The diffusion‐sensitization sequence is modified from a standard gradient echo (GRE) sequence with a nonlinear progression in the bipolar gradient amplitude with each image. In the self‐diffusion phantom experiment, four images were acquired with base gradient factor b0 = 0.15 second/cm2; in the pig and human experiment, six images were acquired with base gradient factor b0 = 1.4 second/cm2.

Results

The self‐diffusion coefficient measured in the phantom experiment was 1.98 ± 0.16 cm2/second. The measured uncertainty curve was consistent with the theoretically predicted curve. The measured in vivo ADC values (three coronal slices in the supine direction) were 0.20/0.16/0.13 cm2/second and 0.20/0.18/0.16 cm2/second for pig and human experiments, respectively.

Conclusion

With the introduction of a nonlinear progression in the diffusion‐sensitization gradients, the multiple regression technique is capable of separating the flip angle effect in ADC measurement. In addition, this technique can perform a rigorous measurement uncertainty analysis and provide the optimal scan parameters that yield best noise performance. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;25:982–991. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Time‐courses of perfusion and phosphocreatine in rat leg during low‐level exercise and recovery
Authors: Marro Kenneth I. , Olive Jennifer L. , Hyyti Outi M. , Kushmerick Martin J.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To develop a noninvasive protocol for measuring local perfusion and metabolic demand in muscle tissue with sufficient sensitivity and time resolution to monitor kinetics at the onset of low‐level exercise and during recovery.

Materials and Methods

Capillary‐level perfusion, the critical factor that determines oxygen and substrate delivery to active muscle, was measured by an arterial spin labeling (ASL) technique optimized for skeletal muscle. Phosphocreatine (PCr) kinetics, which signal the flux of oxidative phosphorylation, were measured by 31P MR spectroscopy. Perfusion and PCr measurements were made in parallel studies before, during, and after three different intensities of low‐level, stimulated exercise in rat hind limb.

Results

The data reveal close coupling between the perfusion response and PCr changes. The onset and recovery time constants for PCr changes were independent of contractile force over the range of forces studied. Perfusion time constants during both onset of exercise and recovery tended to increase with contractile force.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that the protocol implemented can be useful for probing the mechanisms that control skeletal muscle blood flow, the physiological limits to muscle performance, and the causes for the attenuated exercise‐induced hyperemia observed in disease states. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;25:1021–1027. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimal acquisition orders of diffusion‐weighted MRI measurements
Authors: Cook Philip A. , Symms Mark , Boulby Philip A. , Alexander Daniel C.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To propose a new method to optimize the ordering of gradient directions in diffusion‐weighted MRI so that partial scans have the best spherical coverage.

Materials and Methods

Diffusion‐weighted MRI often uses a spherical sampling scheme, which acquires images sequentially with diffusion‐weighting gradients in unique directions distributed isotropically on the hemisphere. If not all of the measurements can be completed, the quality of diffusion tensors fitted to the partial scan is sensitive to the order of the gradient directions in the scanner protocol. If the directions are in a random order, then a partial scan may cover some parts of the hemisphere densely but other parts sparsely and thus provide poor spherical coverage. We compare the results of ordering with previously published methods for optimizing the acquisition in simulation.

Results

Results show that all methods produce similar results and all improve the accuracy of the estimated diffusion tensors significantly over unordered acquisitions.

Conclusion

The new ordering method improves the spherical coverage of partial scans and has the advantage of maintaining the optimal coverage of the complete scan. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;25:1051–1058. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.