bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complete Sequence and Gene Organization of the Nosema spodopterae rRNA Gene
Authors: Tsai Shu‐Jen , Huang Wei‐Fone , Wang Chung‐Hsiung
Published: February 2005

Abstract. By sequencing the entire ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene of Nosema spodopterae, we show here that its gene organization follows a pattern similar to the Nosema type species, Nosema bombycis, i.e. 5′‐large subunit rRNA (2,497 bp)‐internal transcribed spacer (185 bp)‐small subunit rRNA (1,232 bp)‐intergenic spacer (277 bp)‐5S rRNA (114 bp)‐3′. Gene sequences and the secondary structures of large subunit rRNA, small subunit rRNA, and 5S rRNA are compared with the known corresponding sequences and structures of closely related microsporidia. The results suggest that the Nosema genus may be heterogeneous and that the rRNA gene organization may be a useful characteristic for determining which species are closely related to the type species.
Growth‐Phase Dependent Substrate Adhesion in Crithidia fasciculata
Authors: Scolaro Eric J. , Ames Ryan P. , Brittingham Andrew
Published: February 2005

Abstract. Crithidia fasciculata is a trypanosomatid flagellate that parasitizes several species of mosquito. Within the alimentary tract of its host, C. fasciculata exists in two forms: one is a non‐motile form, attached in clusters to the lining of the gut, the other a more elongated form swimming freely in the gut lumen. We have developed an in vitro culture system that reproduces the appearance of these two distinct morphological forms. Using two different cultivation methods, shaking and stationary incubations, we have demonstrated that adherence phenotypes are growth‐phase dependent. Organisms in the logarithmic phase of growth possess the ability to adhere to substrates; this ability is lost when the organism enters a stationary growth phase. Parasite adherence was independent of cultivation method or substrate. Furthermore, adherent forms of Crithidia maintained their adhesive properties following their removal from substrates. Our data reveal a growth‐phase‐regulated process of cell attachment that may influence the transmission and dissemination of this parasitic flagellate.
Number of teeth in relation to oral health behaviour in dentate elderly patients in Lithuania
Authors: Vyšniauskaité Sonata , Kammona Nagham , Vehkalahti Miira M.
Published: February 2005

Aim:  To describe oral self‐care practices and the use of dental services among dentate elderly patients attending public dental service in Kédainiai, Lithuania, and relate these parameters to the number of remaining teeth.

Design:  Cross‐sectional questionnaire study.

Setting:  Two public dental offices in Kédainiai, Lithuania.

Participants:  Dentate patients aged 60+.

Methods:  A self‐administered questionnaire covering oral hygiene practices, use of sugar, utilisation of dental services, and number of teeth. Age, gender, and education served as background factors.

Results:  In all, 174 dentate elderly people responded, their mean age being 69.2 years (CI 95% 68.2–70.2) and mean number of teeth reported 16.2 (CI 95% 15.4–17.1). Of these respondents, 30% reported that they brushed their teeth twice daily and 57% that they always used fluoridated tooth paste. Having 21+ teeth was strongly associated (p < 0.001) with these habits, with brushing in the evening, and with enrolment in higher education, but not with gender. After controlling for various self‐care and background factors, frequent tooth brushing remained as the only significant factor in the logistic regression model (OR 2.0, CI 95% 1.2–3.3, p = 0.01) to explain subjects’ retention of 21+ teeth.

Conclusions:  Elderly Lithuanians’ oral self‐care is far from meeting recommendations. To preserve their natural teeth, dentate elderly people should improve their oral self‐care practices, in particular as regards tooth brushing. To reach that goal, all efforts by the community and dental profession are welcomed.
Adjunctive subantimicrobial dose doxycycline in the management of institutionalised geriatric patients with chronic periodontitis*
Authors: Mohammad Abdel R. , Preshaw Philip M. , Bradshaw Mark H. , Hefti Arthur F. , Powala Christopher V. , Romanowicz Michael
Published: February 2005

Objective:  To assess the efficacy of subantimicrobial dose doxycycline (SDD; 20 mg doxycycline twice daily) as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of moderate‐severe chronic periodontitis (CP) in institutionalised elderly patients aged 65 years or older.

Background:  Previous studies have shown that SDD is of clinical benefit in the treatment of CP. However, the benefits of SDD in geriatric populations (65+ years) have not been determined.

Material and methods:  A 9‐month, double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled pilot study was conducted. 24 institutionalised geriatric patients (65 years or older) with evidence of CP manifested by baseline clinical attachment levels (CAL) 5–9 mm, probing depths (PD) 4–9 mm and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recruited. At baseline, patients were treated by a standardised episode of SRP, and randomised to receive either adjunctive SDD or placebo. Full mouth PD and CAL were measured using the manual UNC‐15 periodontal probe at 3, 6, and 9 months post‐baseline to assess the response to treatment. Periodontal sites were stratified by baseline PD value: sites with PD 4–5 mm were considered moderately diseased and sites with PD ≥6 mm severely diseased.

Results:  The SRP + placebo resulted in PD reductions similar to those reported previously in the literature. At all time‐points and in both moderate and deep sites, SRP + SDD resulted in significantly greater PD reductions relative to baseline than SRP + placebo. At month 9, in moderate sites, mean PD reductions of 1.57 ± 0.11 mm were reported in the adjunctive SDD group, compared with 0.63 ± 0.11 mm in the adjunctive placebo group (p < 0.001). In deep sites at month 9, mean PD reductions of 3.22 ± 0.29 mm were reported in the adjunctive SDD group, compared with 0.98 ± 0.31 mm in the adjunctive placebo group (p < 0.05). Similar improvements were observed for CAL in the SDD group compared with the placebo group. Significantly lower BOP scores were also recorded at month 9 in the SDD group (7.5%) compared with the placebo group (71.2%) (p < 0.01).

Conclusion:  SDD used as an adjunct to SRP provides significant benefit for elderly patients with CP compared with SRP alone.
Perfusion of hearts with triglyceride-rich particles reproduces the metabolic abnormalities in lipotoxic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pillutla Priya , Hwang Yuying C. , Augustus Ayanna , Yokoyama Masayoshi , Yagyu Hiroaki , Johnston Thomas P. , Kaneko Michiyo , Ramasamy Ravichandran , Goldberg Ira J.
Published: February 2005

Hearts with overexpression of anchored lipoprotein lipase (LpL) by cardiomyocytes (hLpLGPImice) develop a lipotoxic cardiomyopathy. To characterize cardiac fatty acid (FA) and triglyceride (TG) metabolism in these mice and to determine whether changes in lipid metabolism precede cardiac dysfunction, hearts from young mice were perfused in Langendorff mode with [14C]palmitate. In hLpLGPIhearts, FA uptake and oxidation were decreased by 59 and 82%, respectively. This suggests reliance on an alternative energy source, such as TG. Indeed, these hearts oxidized 88% more TG. Hearts from young hLpLGPImice also had greater uptake of intravenously injected cholesteryl ester-labeled Intralipid and VLDL. To determine whether perfusion of normal hearts would mimic the metabolic alterations found in hLpLGPImouse hearts, wild-type hearts were perfused with [14C]palmitate and either human VLDL or Intralipid (0.4 mM TG). Both sources of TG reduced [14C]palmitate uptake (48% with VLDL and 45% with Intralipid) and FA oxidation (71% with VLDL and 65% with Intralipid). Addition of either heparin or LpL inhibitor P407 to Intralipid-containing perfusate restored [14C]palmitate uptake and confirmed that Intralipid inhibition requires local LpL. Our data demonstrate that reduced FA uptake and oxidation occur before mechanical dysfunction in hLpLGPIlipotoxicity. This physiology is reproduced with perfusion of hearts with TG-containing particles. Together, the results demonstrate that cardiac uptake of TG-derived FA reduces utilization of albumin-FA.
c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase mediation of angiotensin II-induced proliferation of human mesangial cells
Authors: Zhang Aihua , Ding Guixia , Huang Songming , Wu Yuanjun , Pan Xiaoqing , Guan Xiaoxiang , Chen Ronghua , Yang Tianxin
Published: February 2005

Angiotensin II (ANG II) has been shown to activate c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) in cultured mesangial cells, but the functional implication of this phenomenon remains to be determined, largely due to the lack of an effective approach to block JNK. Therefore, the present study was carried out to examine whether JNK is involved in ANG II-induced cell proliferation in cultured human mesangial cells (HMCs) with the use of a newly developed JNK-selective blocker, SP-600125. Within minutes, treatment with 100 nM ANG II activated all three members of MAP kinase family, including extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (Erk) 1/2, JNK, and p38 in cultured HMCs, as assessed by immunoblotting detection of phosphorylation of MAP kinases. ANG II-dependent activation of JNK was further confirmed by detection of increased phosphorylation and transcription activity of c-Jun after the ANG II treatment. SP-600125 ranging from 5 to 10 μM almost completely abolished the activation of JNK by ANG II without affecting the activities of Erk1/2 and p38. After treatment with 100 ng ANG II, there was a steady increase in [3H]thymidine incorporation that was blocked by SP-60025 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Similarly, SP-600125 dose dependently reduced the ANG II-induced increase in cell number. The antiproliferative effect of SP-60025 was further determined by cell-cycle analysis with flow cytometry. Twenty-four hours after ANG II treatment, 50% of the quiescent HMCs (G0/G1) progressed into the S phase, and the cell cycle progression was almost completely prevented in the presence of SP-60025. Our data suggest that JNK mediates the proliferative effect of ANG II in cultured HMCs and thus represents a novel therapeutic target for treatment of chronic renal diseases.
Application of machine learning and visualization of heterogeneous datasets to uncover relationships between translation and developmental stage expression ofC. elegansmRNAs
Authors: Trutschl Marjan , Dinkova Tzvetanka D. , Rhoads Robert E.
Published: February 2005

The relationships between genes in neighboring clusters in a self-organizing map (SOM) and properties attributed to them are sometimes difficult to discern, especially when heterogeneous datasets are used. We report a novel approach to identify correlations between heterogeneous datasets. One dataset, derived from microarray analysis of polysomal distribution, contained changes in the translational efficiency of Caenorhabditis elegans mRNAs resulting from loss of specific eIF4E isoform. The other dataset contained expression patterns of mRNAs across all developmental stages. Two algorithms were applied to these datasets: a classical scatter plot and an SOM. The outputs were linked using a two-dimensional color scale. This revealed that an mRNA’s eIF4E-dependent translational efficiency is strongly dependent on its expression during development. This correlation was not detectable with a traditional one-dimensional color scale.
Contingent Negative Variation to Emotional In- and Out-Group Stimuli Differentiates High- and Low-Prejudiced Individuals
Authors: Chiu Pearl , Ambady Nalini , Deldin Patricia
Published: February 2005

Low- and high-prejudiced individuals exhibited differential cortical and behavioral responses to the pending and actual evaluation of emotional in- and out-group faces. Participants viewed warning stimuli indicating the subsequent presentation of an angry or happy African-American or Caucasian face. Upon presentation of the face, participants judged whether they would enjoy working with the individual. The contingent negative variation (CNV) component of the event-related potential in response to the pending presentation of in- and out-group emotional stimuli distinguished low- from high-prejudiced individuals. Specifically, low-prejudiced individuals showed greater early CNV in anticipation of angry African-American targets, and increased reaction time to evaluating these faces. High-prejudiced individuals showed decreased early CNV in anticipation of angry African-American faces, accompanied by decreased response latencies, and enhanced CNV in anticipation of happy Caucasian faces. Notably, no group differences emerged in either the pending or actual evaluation of happy out-group faces. The data are discussed with regard to implications for understanding the nature of prejudice, and underscore both the importance of emotional expression on how a target is appraised and also the utility of using converging measures to clarify processes that may contribute to social behavior.
Orographic Precipitation and Oregon’s Climate Transition
Authors: Smith Ronald B. , Barstad Idar , Bonneau Laurent
Published: February 2005

Oregon’s sharp east–west climate transition was investigated using a linear model of orographic precipitation and four datasets: (a) interpolated annual rain gauge data, (b) satellite-derived precipitation proxies (vegetation and brightness temperature), (c) streamflow data for a small catchment, and (d) stable isotope analysis of water samples from streams. The success of the linear model against these datasets suggests that the main elements of the model (i.e., airflow dynamics, cloud time delays, condensed water advection, and leeside evaporation) are behaving reasonably, although the high Oregon terrain may push the linear theory beyond its range of applicability.

A key parameter in the linear model is the cloud delay time (τ), encapsulating the action of orographic cloud processes. Each dataset was examined to see if it can constrain the τ values. The statewide precipitation patterns from rain gauge and satellite constrain the τ values only within a broad range from about 500 to 5000 s. A focus on the sharp gradient on the lee slopes of the Cascades suggests that τ values in the range of 1800–2400 s are preferred. The study of the small Alsea watershed constrains τ little, as it receives a mixture of upslope and spillover precipitation. Stable isotope ratios in stream water indicate an atmospheric drying ratio of about 43%, requiring an average cloud physics delay time greater than τ = 600 s.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Motexafin Gadolinium in Adults With Brain Metastases or Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Miles Dale R. , Smith Jennifer A. , Phan See‐Chun , Hutcheson Sammy J. , Renschler Markus F. , Ford Judith M. , Boswell Garry W.
Published: February 2005

The purpose of this study was to determine clinical variables affecting motexafin gadolinium (MGd) pharmacokinetics. Motexafin gadolinium (4–5.3 mg/kg/d) was administered intravenously for 2 to 6.5 weeks. Plasma samples from 3 clinical trials were analyzed for MGd using liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy. The pooled data were analyzed using population pharmacokinetic (POP‐PK) methods. The POP‐PK model included 243 patients (1575 samples). Clearance (CL) was 14% lower in women, but weight‐normalized clearance was only 5% lower in women. Clearance decreased with increasing alkaline phosphatase, increasing age, and decreasing hemoglobin. Administration of phenytoin increased CL by approximately 30%. Central compartment volume (V1) was 21% lower in women and increased with increasing serum creatinine. For all covariates, except sex and phenytoin, the predicted change in CL or V1 (5th and 95th percentiles) varied ≤13% from the population mean CL or V1 estimate. It was concluded that a 3‐compartment, open, POP‐PK model predicts small but significant effects of age, sex, alkaline phosphatase, hemoglobin, serum creatinine, and phenytoin on MGd pharmacokinetics.
Neuromuscular Response to Cyclic Loading of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Sbriccoli Paola , Solomonow Moshe , Zhou Bing-He , Lu Yun , Sellards Robert
Published: February 2005

Background

Cyclic load applied to various joints during occupational and sports activities is epidemiologically linked to higher risk of neuromuscular disorder development.

Hypothesis

Passive cyclic loading of the knee will develop laxity and creep in the anterior cruciate ligament, and these may elicit a neuromuscular disorder in the quadriceps and hamstrings. Women may be more susceptible to the disorder.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Male and female groups were subjected to 10 minutes of passive cyclic loading (0.1 Hz) of the knee at a mild load (150-200 N) and at 35° and 90° flexion. Anterior tibial displacement and electromyogram from the quadriceps and hamstrings were monitored during cyclic loading. Maximal voluntary contraction of knee extension and flexion was assessed before and after cyclic loading. The effect of gender and angle on maximal voluntary contraction and quadriceps/hamstrings electromyogram was tested by a 2-way analysis of variance. Differences between the preload and postload data were tested by a paired ttest.

Results

At a knee angle of 90°, after cyclic loading, a decrease in maximal voluntary contraction during extension was present in men and women, with an associated decrease in quadriceps electromyogram activity. At 35°, a decrease in maximal voluntary contraction in extension was noted in women and men. Electromyogram spasms were present in the quadriceps and hamstrings during the 10-minute cyclic loading in 51.7% of subjects. Analysis of variance demonstrated that ligament creep was significantly greater in women than in men at both knee angles.

Conclusions

Even a mild cyclic loading of the anterior cruciate ligament, for a relatively short period, can elicit substantial creep, laxity, and a neuromuscular disorder. The disorder is composed of spasms and attenuated muscular function that may together create a condition that exposes the knee to injury. Women seem to be more susceptible than men.

Clinical Relevance

Cyclic actions performed at high frequencies and high-load magnitudes may lead to the occurrence of increased knee laxity and changes in neuromuscular function that, together with fatigue and changes in proprioception, may increase the risk of injury.
Sports Activity after Arthroscopic Superior Labral Repair using Suture Anchors in Overhead-Throwing Athletes
Authors: Ide Junji , Maeda Satoshi , Takagi Katsumasa
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the results of arthroscopic repair of type II superior labral anterior posterior lesions of the shoulder in overhead athletes.

Hypothesis

Such repair is useful for overhead athletes in terms of postoperative sports activity.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

The study group was composed of 40 patients with a mean age of 24 years (range, 15-38 years); mean follow-up was 41 months (range, 24-58 months). They were divided into an overuse (n = 22) and a trauma group (n = 18). The authors used 2 suture anchors loaded with a nonabsorbable suture at the 11-o'clock and 1-o'clock positions through the anterosuperior and lateral trans-rotator cuff portal. A modified Rowe score and postoperative athletic activities were evaluated.

Results

After arthroscopic repair, mean modified Rowe scores improved from 27.5 to 92.1 points (P <. 0001). Rated on this scale, the results were excellent in 30 (75%), good in 6 (15%), and fair in 4 (10%) athletes; there were no poor results. Satisfactory outcomes were achieved in 36 (90%) of these patients; 30 (75%) experienced a return to the preinjury level. The complete return rate of baseball players in the overuse group was lower than that of other overhead athletes in the trauma group.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic superior labral repair is a safe and reliable procedure in overhead athletes.
Biomechanical Measures of Neuromuscular Control and Valgus Loading of the Knee Predict Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Risk in Female Athletes: A Prospective Study
Authors: Hewett Timothy E. , Myer Gregory D. , Ford Kevin R. , Heidt Robert S. , Colosimo Angelo J. , McLean Scott G. , van den Bogert Antonie J. , Paterno Mark V. , Succop Paul
Published: February 2005

Background

Female athletes participating in high-risk sports suffer anterior cruciate ligament injury at a 4- to 6-fold greater rate than do male athletes.

Hypothesis

Prescreened female athletes with subsequent anterior cruciate ligament injury will demonstrate decreased neuromuscular control and increased valgus joint loading, predicting anterior cruciate ligament injury risk.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

There were 205 female athletes in the high-risk sports of soccer, basketball, and volleyball prospectively measured for neuromuscular control using 3-dimensional kinematics (joint angles) and joint loads using kinetics (joint moments) during a jump-landing task. Analysis of variance as well as linear and logistic regression were used to isolate predictors of risk in athletes who subsequently ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament.

Results

Nine athletes had a confirmed anterior cruciate ligament rupture; these 9 had significantly different knee posture and loading compared to the 196 who did not have anterior cruciate ligament rupture. Knee abduction angle (P <. 05) at landing was 8° greater in anterior cruciate ligament-injured than in uninjured athletes. Anterior cruciate ligament-injured athletes had a 2.5 times greater knee abduction moment (P <. 001) and 20% higher ground reaction force (P <. 05), whereas stance time was 16% shorter; hence, increased motion, force, and moments occurred more quickly. Knee abduction moment predicted anterior cruciate ligament injury status with 73% specificity and 78% sensitivity; dynamic valgus measures showed a predictive r2 of 0.88.

Conclusion

Knee motion and knee loading during a landing task are predictors of anterior cruciate ligament injury risk in female athletes.

Clinical Relevance

Female athletes with increased dynamic valgus and high abduction loads are at increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury. The methods developed may be used to monitor neuromuscular control of the knee joint and may help develop simpler measures of neuromuscular control that can be used to direct female athletes to more effective, targeted interventions.
Cyclic Testing of Flexible All-Inside Meniscus Suture Anchors: Biomechanical Analysis
Authors: Zantop Thore , Eggers Ann K. , Musahl Volker , Weimann Andre , Petersen Wolf
Published: February 2005

Background

Flexible meniscus repair devices are designed to combine the benefits of rigid all-inside meniscus anchors with the biomechanical properties of sutures.

Hypothesis

Stiffness and pull-out strength of flexible all-inside suture anchors and conventional sutures under cyclic loading conditions will be comparable.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study

Methods

In 50 fresh frozen bovine menisci, artificial meniscus lesions were repaired with different meniscus fixation techniques: horizontal and vertical FasT-Fix, RapidLoc, and horizontal and vertical 2-0 Ethibond sutures. The specimens were cycled 1000 times between 5 and 20 N and then loaded to failure.

Results

All devices survived the cyclic loading protocol. There was no significant difference in the displacement between all repair techniques tested (horizontal FasT-Fix, 6.23 mm; vertical FasT-Fix, 5.34 mm; RapidLoc, 6.84 mm; horizontal 2-0 Ethibond, 6.03 mm; vertical 2-0 Ethibond, 5.61 mm (P >. 05). Vertical and horizontal FasT-Fix suture anchors had a significantly higher stiffness and pull-out strength (94.1 N and 80.8 N, respectively) than did horizontal sutures (50.2 N) and RapidLoc devices (30.3 N) (P >. 05).

Conclusions

In this study, flexible all-inside meniscus anchors (FasT-Fix) had higher pull-out strength than did conventional vertical suture techniques. Biomechanical characteristics of the flexible RapidLoc are comparable to those of horizontal sutures.

Clinical Relevance

Flexible all-inside meniscus repair devices are an alternative to conventional suture techniques.
Tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 acts at different stages of development to regulate hematopoiesis
Authors: Paling Nicholas R. D. , Welham Melanie J.
Published: February 2005

Mice lacking SHP-1 exhibit a plethora of perturbations in their hematopoietic and immune systems. To reveal the primary effects resulting from SHP-1 deficiency, we used embryonic stem (ES) cells to study the role of SHP-1 in developmental hematopoiesis. We expressed wild-type (WT) and dominant-negative (R459M) forms of SHP-1 in ES cells and used ES/OP-9 coculture and embryoid body development followed by hematopoietic colony assays to demonstrate that SHP-1 acts at multiple stages of hematopoietic differentiation to alter lineage balance. Expression of WT SHP-1 reduced myeloid colony numbers while increasing the numbers of secondary embryoid bodies and mixed hematopoietic colonies obtained. Conversely, expression of R459M SHP-1 resulted in a significant increase in the numbers and sizes of myeloid colonies observed while reducing the numbers of colonies derived from undifferentiated cells or hematopoietic precursor cells. Confining the expression of WT or R459M SHP-1 to the early phases of differentiation decreased and increased progenitor cell numbers, respectively, and influenced colony formation. Overall, our results are consistent with SHP-1 acting during multiple stages of hematopoietic development, and they suggest that the increases in granulocytes and macrophages observed in motheaten mice arise as the result of a cell autonomous effect early during development.
Experimental investigation of the characteristics of an NOx reduction system for a dimethyl ether engine
Authors: Lee Seang-Wock , Satio Yoshio
Published: February 2005

In recent years, dimethyl ether (DME) has received attention as an alternative to diesel fuel. This is because, firstly, DME has a cetane number close to that of diesel fuel, secondly, an innovative chemical process has been developed for much production of DME efficiently from natural gas, and, thirdly, DME is an oxygenate fuel having a molecular C-O bond characteristic of smoke-free fuel. Therefore, DME would be expected to be a less pollutant-forming fuel alternative to diesel fuel. However, even when using DME, nitrogen oxides (NO x) still remain problems under stringent exhaust gas emission regulations. In this study, an NO x storage reduction (NSR) system was evaluated using the DME engine with a common-rail injection system. Rich conditions are created by injecting DME fuel into the catalyst. Stationary NO x reduction tests have been performed with various exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) rates from low-load to full-load conditions.

In the DME engine, high injection pressures using multi-hole injectors are effective for enhancing combustion. The power output of the DME engine using a high pressure of 30 MPa with a common-rail injection system is almost identical with that of a diesel engine. In the NO x reduction system, it was possible to obtain a high reduction rate of NO x emissions from the DME engine by applying the NSR catalyst. However, the temperature at the catalyst inlet must exceed 350°C to obtain a reduction rate higher than 80 per cent. Moreover, it was possible to reduce the amount of DME injection in the NSR system by applying the EGR because of decreased NO x emission.
Meta-Heuristics for a Class of Demand-Responsive Transit Systems
Authors: Crainic Teodor Gabriel , Malucelli Federico , Nonato Maddalena , Guertin François
Published: February 2005

The demand-adaptive systems studied in this paper attempt to offer demand-responsive services within the framework of traditional scheduled bus transportation: Users call to request service between two given points and, in so doing, induce detours in the vehicle routes; at the same time, though, a given set of compulsory stops is always served according to a predefined schedule, regardless of the current set of active requests. The model developed to select requests and determine the routing of the vehicle yields a difficult formulation but with a special structure that may be used to develop efficient algorithms. In this paper, we develop, test, and compare several solution strategies for the single line-single vehicle problem that belong to two general meta-heuristic classes, memory-enhanced greedy randomized multistart constructive procedures, and tabu search methods. Hybrid meta-heuristics combining the two methods are also analyzed.
Quality of Anticoagulation Control and Costs of Monitoring Warfarin Therapy among Patients with Atrial Fibrillation in Clinic Settings: A Multi-Site Managed-Care Study
Authors: Menzin Joseph , Boulanger Luke , Hauch Ole , Friedman Mark , Marple Cheryl Beadle , Wygant Gail , Hurley Judith S , Pezzella Stephen , Kaatz Scott
Published: February 2005

BACKGROUND:

Warfarin is recommended for prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation who are at moderate or high risk, but requires intensive management to achieve safe and optimal anticoagulation control. Anticoagulation clinics are often used to administer warfarin therapy more effectively.

OBJECTIVE:

To collect data from multiple sites and assess the quality and costs associated with anticoagulation clinic services.

METHODS:

A random sample of 600 adults with chronic nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (CNVAF) receiving warfarin was selected from anticoagulation clinics affiliated with 3 health plans. Patients were identified between 1996 and 1998 and followed for up to one year. We assessed the proportion of time that international normalized ratio (INR) values were within the recommended range (2.0–3.0) and the costs of anticoagulation clinic care.

RESULTS:

Patients had an average of 18 clinic contacts over a mean duration of follow-up of 10.5 months. On average, patients were within the recommended INR range 62% of this time, with 25% of days below range and 13% above range. The mean per-patient cost of warfarin monitoring over the follow-up period averaged $261 at site A, $305 at site B, and $205 at site C (in 2003 US$). Mean costs for patients treated for one full year were $288, $339, and $216, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

In 3 geographically diverse health plans, anticoagulation clinics provided a generally higher quality of control than previously reported in other observational studies. This study highlights the costs of obtaining this level of control.
A Proposal for Universal Nomenclature in Implant Prosthodontics
Authors: Nase John B.
Published: February 2005

Attempts have been made at formulating standardized nomenclature for implantology. Although these classification systems have advanced the concept of universal nomenclature in implantology, they can be improved upon. Most of them present terms in glossary form, which can limit their applicability. Others deviate significantly from accepted basic terminology and can be foreign or ambiguous to the average clinician. This article outlines the semiotic approach to language formulation, discusses slight changes to accepted conventional prosthodontic terminology to better encompass implant dentistry, and introduces the shortform and support-retention-connection-prosthesis classification systems.
Simulation and experiments of mixing and segregation in a tote blender
Authors: Sudah O. S. , Arratia P. E. , Alexander A. , Muzzio F. J.
Published: February 2005

Experimental and computational investigation of mixing and segregation of granular material in a tote blender was carried out. The discrete element method (DEM) was used to simulate flow of spherical, free‐flowing particles where the results of the computations were compared to blending. Computational results are compared to blending experiments of monodisperse and bidisperse systems using spherical glass beads in a 1:1 scale. Although some discrepancies were observed, DEM simulations illustrated good agreement with experimentally measured mixing and segregation rates for different fill levels and loading conditions. The effects of blender geometry on particle velocities and flow patterns were examined using DEM. The presence of a hopper and bin section, as well as the axial offset proved to introduce greater axial mixing rates that would be expected from pure dispersion. Vibrated experiments showed better agreement than not‐vibrated experiments, indicating that modeling of friction forces needs to be further improved to enhance the accuracy of DEM methods. © 2005 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 51: 836–844, 2005
Synthesis of 4,5‐seco‐eudesman‐type sesquiterpenes: 4,5‐dioxo‐10‐epi‐4,5‐seco‐γ‐eudesmane and 4,5‐dioxo‐10‐epi‐4,5‐seco‐γ‐eudesmanol
Authors: Fang Lijing , Chen Jinchun , Zheng Guojun , Zhang Chen , Li Yulin
Published: February 2005

A facile synthetic route to two seco‐eudesmanes, 4,5‐dioxo‐10‐epi‐4,5‐seco‐γ‐eudesmane (1) and 4,5‐dioxo‐10‐epi‐4,5‐seco‐γ‐eudesmol (2) from (+)‐dihydrocarvone has been described. Avoiding expensive reagents, this highly economic method is especially suited for the synthesis of 4,5‐seco‐eudesman‐type and iphionan‐type sesquiterpenes with a double bond at positions 11 and 12. Chirality 17:163–166, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conserved cross‐interactions in Drosophila and Xenopus between Ras/MAPK signaling and the dual‐specificity phosphatase MKP3
Authors: Gómez Ana Ruiz , López‐Varea Ana , Molnar Cristina , de la Calle‐Mustienes Elisa , Ruiz‐Gómez Mar , Gómez‐Skarmeta José Luis , de Celis Jose F.
Published: February 2005

The extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) is a key transducer of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signaling pathways, and its function is required in multiple processes during animal development. The activity of ERK depends on the phosphorylation state of conserved threonine and tyrosine residues, and this state is regulated by different kinases and phosphatases. A family of phosphatases with specificity toward both threonine and tyrosine residues in ERK (dual‐specificity phosphatases) play a conserved role in its dephosphorylation and consequent inactivation. Here, we characterize the function of the dual‐specificity phosphatase MKP3 in Drosophila EGFR and Xenopus FGFR signaling. The function of MKP3 is required during Drosophila wing vein formation and Xenopus anteroposterior neural patterning. We find that the expression of the MKP3 gene is localized in places of high EGFR and FGFR signaling. Furthermore, this restricted expression depends on ERK function both in Drosophila and Xenopus, suggesting that MKP3 constitutes a conserved negative feedback loop on the activity of the Ras/ERK signaling pathway. Developmental Dynamics 232:695–708, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Drosophila gene tazman, an orthologue of the yeast exosome component Rrp44p/Dis3, is differentially expressed during development
Authors: Cairrão Fátima , Arraiano Cecília , Newbury Sarah
Published: February 2005

The major 3′–5′ pathway of RNA degradation in eukaryotic cells involves the exosome, which is a multi‐protein complex of exoribonucleases. The exoribonucleases within this complex are highly conserved and are closely related to prokaryotic ribonucleases. We have identified and characterised the expression pattern of Drosophila tazman (taz), a component of the exosome which is closely related to Escherichia coli RNaseR and yeast Rrp44p. The tazman transcripts are differentially expressed during development, with maximum expression levels in 6–8 hr embryos. In situ hybridisation and immunolocalisation experiments show that tazman transcripts and protein are maternally derived, and are expressed ubiquitously throughout the embryo, with high levels in germ band and head structures. Differential expression of TAZ is likely to reflect changes in the activity of the 3′–5′ mRNA turnover pathway which could have a major impact of the expression of target RNAs. Developmental Dynamics 232:733–737, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intimate relationships with their neighbors: Tales of stem cells in Drosophila reproductive systems
Authors: Xie Ting , Kawase Eihachiro , Kirilly Daniel , Wong Marco D.
Published: February 2005

Stem cells have the unique potential to self‐renew and to supply differentiated cells that replenish lost cells throughout an organism's lifetime. This unique property makes stem cells powerful therapeutic tools for future regenerative medicine. However, the molecular mechanisms of stem cell regulation are still poorly understood in many stem cell systems. Stem cell function has been shown recently to be controlled by concerted actions of extrinsic signals from its regulatory niche and intrinsic factors inside the stem cell. Stem cells in the Drosophila reproductive systems provide excellent models to understand the fundamental mechanisms underlying stem cell regulation, including the relationships between stem cells and their niches. Within the past few years, much progress in understanding stem cells in Drosophila has been made, and the knowledge gained from studying these stem cells greatly advances our understanding of stem cells in other systems, including humans. In this review, we summarize the recent progress and describe future challenges in understanding the molecular mechanisms controlling stem cell self‐renewal, division, and differentiation in the Drosophila reproductive systems. Developmental Dynamics 232:775–790, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New global optimization algorithm via dynamic control
Authors: Shimizu Kiyotaka , Suzaki Kosuke
Published: February 2005

This paper proposes a new algorithm for the unconstrained optimization problem, which is derived as an application of the control theory called Direct Gradient Descent Control. The static optimization problem is solved by using a dynamic controller in which the convergence speed can be greatly accelerated. The major idea is to consider the objective functionF(x) and its time derivativedF(x(t))/dtas the evaluation criteria, and to apply the gradient descent method. It is verified by simulation that the proposed dynamic mathematical programming has a very great capability to converge to the optimal solution. It is also interesting to note that the method has to a certain extent the ability to find not only local optimal solutions, but also global optimal solutions. This paper improves the basic algorithm of dynamic mathematical programming so that it is suited to global optimization. The new algorithm generates movement toward the global optimal solution by utilizing two different trajectories with interaction (the chaotic trajectory and convergence trajectory). It is verified by simulation that the new algorithm functions as a global optimization procedure with a high success probability. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 88(6): 20–27, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.20094
Design and implementation of 3D interface for digital city
Authors: Ito Hideaki , Teh Siewling , Nakanishi Hideyuki , Hagawa Toshihide
Published: February 2005

We have developed virtual space software as a 3D interface for the digital city. This software is intended to construct a new community in cyberspace in which several hundreds of agents with human appearance and several dozens of avatars interact by using video and voice in a virtual space with the same structure as the real world. Among these purposes, the virtual space is realized by reading the structural data (written in VRML) of the space, which has the same structure as a real city, into the 3D communication tool. The realism and ease of operation of the avatars and agents are improved by implementing walking with an animation technique, natural avoidance of others while walking in a crowded area, and reproduction of the spatial sound field in utterances. Hitherto, a high‐performance computer has been assumed in realizing a 3D space with such sophisticated functions. However, the digital city should be designed so the general public can access it easily from the home computing environment. It is also desirable that the space can be shared simultaneously by as many persons as possible. For this purpose, the computer performance requirements and the network bandwidth for the interface should be kept as low as possible. In order to solve these problems, we developed an efficient sound field generation technique for a multiuser environment and implemented the system in the virtual space. Evaluations show that the proposed technique is effective in reducing the computer resources expended in virtual space software. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 88(6): 60–68, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.20172
Evaluation of the Lactic Acid Consumption in Yeast Cultures by Voltammetric Means
Authors: Rodrigues A. , Bento M. F. , Geraldo M. D. , Cássio F.
Published: February 2005

The voltammetric study of the lactic acid reduction was performed in media suitable for yeast growth, using platinum microelectrodes. The decrease of the voltammetric peak current from square‐wave voltammetry, ΔIp, in cultures of the yeasts Candida utilis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae was related to both the growth time and cellular biomass. Either the imposed variations of medium composition or those resulting from cellular growth did not significantly affect the ΔIp values. For both yeast species, similar specific growth rates were estimated from the variation of Ip and absorbance at 640 nm.
RM2 antigen (β1,4‐GalNAc‐disialyl‐Lc4) as a new marker for prostate cancer
Authors: Saito Seiichi , Egawa Shin , Endoh Mareyuki , Ueno Seiji , Ito Akihiro , Numahata Kenji , Satoh Makoto , Kuwao Sadahito , Baba Shiro , Hakomori Senitiroh , Arai Yoichi
Published: February 2005

Although prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) has been widely used for early detection of prostate cancer, PSA has problems with specificity and prediction of pathological stage. Therefore, a new marker for prostate cancer is urgently required. We examined expression of a novel carbohydrate antigen, β1,4‐GalNAc‐disialyl‐Lc4, defined by the monoclonal antibody RM2, in prostate cancer using 75 cases of radical prostatectomy specimens. RM2 immunoreactivity was negative to weak in all benign glands, and weak to moderate in high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia. In prostatic adenocarcinoma, RM2 immunoreactivity was negative to weak (lower expression) in 20 cases, and moderate to strong (higher expression) in 55 cases. A clear difference of RM2 expression level was observed between Gleason patterns 3 and ≥4. Higher expression of RM2 antigen was significantly associated with primary Gleason pattern ≥4, high Gleason score (≥8), larger tumor volume and advanced tumor stage. Furthermore, 5‐year PSA failure‐free survival was significantly lower in the higher expression group. However, no significant relationship was observed between RM2 expression level and preoperative serum PSA. Western blot analysis in prostate cancer cell lines PC3 and LNCap revealed that major 49‐kDa and minor 39‐kDa glycoproteins were common to both cells, but there was an increase of 59‐ and 125‐kDa glycoproteins unique to LNCap and an increase of 88‐ and 98‐kDa glycoproteins unique to PC3. RM2 antigen is a new histological marker for prostate cancer that may reflect the Gleason grading system. Identification of the glycoproteins carrying the RM2 antigen will provide new insights into the properties of prostate cancer. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Smoking and non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: Case‐control study in Italy
Authors: Talamini Renato , Polesel Jerry , Montella Maurizio , Maso Luigino Dal , Crispo Anna , Spina Michele , Franceschi Silvia , Crovatto Marina , La Vecchia Carlo
Published: February 2005

Tobacco smoking is a well‐documented risk factor for several cancers, but the role of cigarette smoking in the etiology of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is inadequately understood. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been associated with NHL, but the interaction between HCV and smoking habits has not yet been studied. Between 1999 and 2002, we conducted a case‐control study on the association of HCV, smoking habits and NHL in 2 areas of northern and southern Italy. Cases were 225 consecutive patients (median age, 59 years) with a new diagnosis of NHL that were admitted to reference and general hospitals. Controls were 504 patients (median age, 63 years) admitted to the same hospitals as cases, for a wide spectrum of acute, nonneoplastic, nonimmune‐, nor tobacco‐related conditions. Current, heavy smokers (≥20 cigarettes/day) had an odds ratio (OR) of NHL of 2.10 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.07–4.12) compared to never smokers. The association between smoking and NHL was consistent across strata of sex and age. Compared to never smokers, current smokers of ≥20 cigarettes/day had ORs of 1.14 (95% CI: 0.37–3.56) for B‐cell‐low‐grade, 2.10 (95% CI: 0.94–4.67) for B‐cell‐intermediate and high‐grade, and 25.84 (95% CI: 1.95–342.17) for T‐cell NHL. The effect of tobacco smoking and HCV were independent on the relative risk, leading a 4‐fold elevated risk in current smokers HCV positive subjects. Tobacco smoking and hepatitis C virus (HCV) have been associated to non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), but the interaction between HCV and smoking habits has not yet been studied. Our study confirms that tobacco is related to NHL, and reports on the combined effect of tobacco smoking and HCV. Infection acted together according to a multiplicative model, leading to a 4‐fold elevated risk in current smokers HCV positive subjects. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Toenail selenium and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma mortality in Haimen City, China
Authors: Sakoda Lori C. , Graubard Barry I. , Evans Alison A. , London W. Thomas , Lin Wen‐Yao , Shen Fu‐Min , McGlynn Katherine A.
Published: February 2005

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace mineral with known anticarcinogenic properties in humans. However, few studies have examined the association between Se nutrient status and risk of liver cancer. We conducted a nested case‐control study comparing the Se content in toenail clippings of 166 individuals (154 men, 12 women) with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to 394 healthy controls (360 men, 34 women) in Haimen City, China, where HCC is a leading cause of mortality. Toenail Se concentration was measured by inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy. Median toenail Se was lower for HCC cases than controls (p = 0.03). Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for HCC mortality by increasing quartile of toenail Se were 1.00 (reference), 0.58 (0.32–1.03), 0.83 (0.48–1.42) and 0.50 (0.28–0.90), with a marginally significant trend in risk observed (p for trend = 0.06). This inverse association appeared stronger among those who did not consume alcohol and among women. Future studies are needed to examine the interrelationship between Se, viral hepatitis infection and HCC in order to better understand the etiologic mechanisms involved and evaluate the true chemopreventive potential of Se compounds for liver diseases. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.