bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Fusobacterium nucleatum 65 kDa serine protease
Authors: Bachrach G. , Rosen G. , Bellalou M. , Naor R. , Sela M. N.
Published: April 2004

A65 kDa protease was partially purified from extracellular vesicles of Fusobacterium nucleatum cultures by preparative SDS‐PAGE followed by electroelution. The pH optimum of the protease is 7.5–8.0 and its activity could be inhibited by serine protease inhibitors. The protease was found to degrade the extracellular matrix proteins fibrinogen and fibronectin as well as collagen I and collagen IV which were degraded at 37°C but not at 28°C, indicating the presence of a gelatinase activity in these bacteria. The 65 kDa protease was also able to digest the α‐chains of immunoglobulin A but not immunoglobulin G. The 65 kDa F. nucleatum protease, capable of degrading native proteins, may play an important role in both the nutrition and pathogenicity of these periodontal microorganisms. The degradation of extracellular matrix proteins by bacterial enzymes may contribute to the damage of periodontal tissues, and degradation of IgA may help the evasion of the immune system of the host by the bacteria.
“I Think They Discriminated Against Me”: Using Prototype Theory and Organizational Justice Theory for Understanding Perceived Discrimination in Selection and Promotion Situations
Authors: Harris Michael M. , Lievens Filip , Van Hoye Greet
Published: April 2004

Research in industrial/organizational (I/O) psychology has generally focused on objective measures of employment discrimination and has virtually neglected individuals' subjective perceptions as to whether a selection or promotion process is discriminatory or not. This paper presents two theoretical models as organizing frameworks to explain candidates' likelihood of perceiving that discrimination has occurred in a certain selection or promotion situation. The prototype model stresses the importance of the prototypical victim‐perpetrator combination, the perceived intention of the decision‐maker, and the perceived harm caused as possible antecedents of perceived employment discrimination. In the organizational justice model, procedural, informational, interpersonal, and distributive fairness play a central role in determining candidates' perceptions of discrimination. The fairness heuristic helps to explain which type of fairness information dominates these perceptions. Applications and research propositions are discussed as well as the similarities and differences between the two models. We conclude by offering several factors that may determine which model is used in deciding whether or not discrimination has occurred.
Social Identities and Applicant Reactions
Authors: Herriot Peter
Published: April 2004

Social identity theory is proposed as a theoretical framework for better understanding applicants' reactions to selection processes. In particular, it is argued that this theory enables an understanding of how applicants' social identities interact with their perceptions of selection episodes to predict their exit from the process. First, an account of applicant reactions derived from social identity theory is presented which emphasizes the importance of applicants' social identities. It is argued that those of the applicants' identities which are salient during specific elements of the selection process are matched with their current perceptions of the organizational identity, such that degree of congruence is assessed. Intentions to exit or to refuse a job offer result if a specific level of incongruence is reached. This relationship between congruence and intentions is moderated by perceptions of the labour market and of the self. Key features of this account are then summarized, namely, the importance ascribed to candidates' experience prior to the selection process; the centrality of social identities to the theoretical account; the subjective interactionist assumptions underpinning the account; the importance of changes in the salience of identities; the potential existence of multiple organizational identities; the psychological changes which trigger a matching process; and the proposed moderators of the congruence‐exit relationship. Findings from the research literature which indirectly support two of these features of the theoretical account are described. Finally, directions for future research are suggested.
Fairness Reactions to Personnel Selection Techniques in Spain and Portugal
Authors: Moscoso Silvia , Salgado Jesús F.
Published: April 2004

This paper examines the reactions to personnel selection methods in Spain and Portugal using a sample composed of 125 and 104 students, respectively. The results found are very similar in both countries. The best rated and most favorable methods are interviews, résumés and work sample tests, while contacts, integrity tests and graphology were the least favorable ones. With regard to the process dimensions used, face validity and opportunity to perform are the most important bases for considering personnel techniques favorably. The results show some similarities with the ones found by Steiner and Gilliland (1996) in French and American samples. The similarities among the countries are examined and directions for future research are discussed.
Empirical use of antisecretory drug therapy delays diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma but does not effect outcome
Authors: Panter S. J. , O'Flanagan H. , Bramble M. G. , Hungin A. P. S.
Published: April 2004

Background : Upper gastrointestinal cancer carries a poor prognosis. Although the incidence of gastric adenocarcinoma is falling, oesophageal adenocarcinoma is increasing. This has been attributed to an increasing prevalence of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, commonly treated empirically in primary care with antisecretory drugs. Treatment has been associated with delayed diagnosis but it is unclear if this influences prognosis.

Aims : To ascertain the effect of antisecretory drugs on time to diagnosis, symptoms, tumour stage and outcome.

Methods : A retrospective cohort study of primary care records for 747 patients diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma at South Tees NHS Trust between 1991 and 2001.

Results : Mean time from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis was 30 weeks. Mean and median times at the primary care stage were longer than at the hospital stage for both oesophageal and gastric cancer (P < 0.0001). Patients with benign symptoms prescribed antisecretory drugs were referred later than those not on antisecretory drugs (P < 0.0001), as were patients with alarm symptoms (P = 0.0008). Prior use of antisecretory drugs delayed diagnosis by 17.6 weeks (mean) but had no effect on tumour stage at diagnosis or survival.

Conclusion : Prior antisecretory drug therapy was associated with delayed diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma irrespective of presenting symptoms. Concerns that delays might adversely affect tumour stage or long‐term survival were not substantiated.
Primary Helicobacter pylori resistance to metronidazole and clarithromycin in the Finnish population
Authors: Koivisto T. T. , Rautelin H. I. , Voutilainen M. E. , Niemelä S. E. , Heikkinen M. , Sipponen P. I. , Färkkilä M. A.
Published: April 2004

Aim : To systematically determine Helicobacter pylori primary antimicrobial resistance in Finland and the associated demographic and clinical features.

Methods : A total of 342 adult patients referred for gastroscopy at 23 centres in different parts of Finland and positive for the rapid biopsy urease test were recruited. Clinical and demographic data were collected via a structured questionnaire. Patients with positive H. pylori culture and successful antibiotic sensitivity determination by the E‐test method (n = 292) were included in the present analysis.

Results : The study population consisted of 134 men and 158 women, mean age 56 years (95% CI, 55–58 years). Resistance to metronidazole was 38% (110 of 292) and to clarithromycin 2% (seven of 292). Resistance to metronidazole was higher in women than in men (48% vs. 25%, P < 0.001).

Previous use of antibiotics for gynaecological infections predicted metronidazole resistance (P = 0.01), and previous use of antibiotics for respiratory (P = 0.02) and dental infections (P = 0.02) the clarithromycin resistance. We observed no major geographical variations in metronidazole resistance.

Conclusions : The primary metronidazole resistance of H. pylori was 38% and was common in women previously treated for gynaecological infections. Primary clarithromycin resistance was uncommon (2%) and may associate with previous dental and respiratory infections.
Acute renal failure after transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma: a retrospective study of the incidence, risk factors, clinical course and long‐term outcome
Authors: Huo T.‐I. , Wu J.‐C. , Huang Y.‐H. , Chiang J.‐H. , Lee P.‐C. , Chang F.‐Y. , Lee S.‐D.
Published: April 2004

Background : Transarterial chemoembolization is effective for hepatocellular carcinoma. Acute renal failure may occur after transarterial chemoembolization because of radiocontrast agent, but its clinical aspects are unknown.

Aim : To investigate the incidence, risk factors and outcome of acute renal failure, defined as increase of serum creatinine > 1.5 mg/dL, after transarterial chemoembolization.

Methods : A total of 235 hepatocellular carcinoma patients with 843 transarterial chemoembolization treatment sessions were analysed.

Results : Acute renal failure developed in 56 (23.8%) patients and the estimated risk of developing acute renal failure was 6.6% in each treatment session. Comparison between the episodes of transarterial chemoembolization with and without acute renal failure by using the generalized estimating equation disclosed that Child–Pugh class B (odds ratio: 2.6, P = 0.007) and treatment session (odds ratio: 1.3; P < 0.0001) were independent risk factors of acute renal failure. Twenty‐seven patients had prolonged renal function impairment. Multivariate analysis by generalized estimating equation showed that Child–Pugh class B (odds ratio: 4.3, P = 0.0004) and diabetes mellitus (odds ratio: 5.2, P < 0.0001) were linked with prolonged acute renal failure, which independently predicted a decreased survival (relative risk: 2.3, P = 0.002).

Conclusions : Acute renal failure after transarterial chemoembolization appears to be dose‐related and is associated with the severity of cirrhosis. Patients with diabetes mellitus or Child–Pugh class B more frequently develop prolonged acute renal failure, which in turn is a poor prognostic predictor.
Habitat variables associated with wolf (Canis lupus) distribution and abundance in northern Poland
Authors: Jȩdrzejewski Włodzimierz , Niedziałkowska Magdalena , Nowak Sabina , Jȩdrzejewska Bogumiła
Published: April 2004

Based on data collected during the National Wolf Census in 2000–01, we analysed the main habitat factors influencing the distribution and abundance of the wolf,Canis lupus, in northern Poland. The study region forms the western border of the continuous Eastern European range of wolves, although attempts at westward dispersal have been observed. Using Geographic Information System techniques, we measured nine habitat variables and three parameters related to wolf occurrence in 134 circular sample plots (radius 7 km, area 154 km2each). We compared 72 plots where wolves were recorded and 62 plots with no signs of wolf presence. Wolf plots were characterized by significantly higher forest cover, less fragmentation of forests, lower density of villages, towns, motorways, and railways than wolf‐free plots. We found a positive correlation between the sum of wolf observations in plots and forest cover. The number of domestic animals killed by wolves was higher in areas with higher indices of wolf abundance and lower forest area. In multiple regression analysis, four independent variables explained 59% of the variation in wolf distribution and abundance in northern Poland: straight‐line distance to continuous range of wolves in Eastern Europe; forest cover; forest fragmentation; and length of major motorways. We conclude that protection of wolves in Poland (since 1998) may not be an adequate conservation measure, especially because of the increasing density of highways and express motorways. Existing forest corridors should be protected and new ones should be restored to ensure long‐term conservation of wolves and allow range expansion into Western Europe.
Occurrence of Colombian datura virus in the Terrestrial Orchid, Spiranthes cernua
Authors: Fry C. R. , Zimmerman M. T. , Scott S. W.
Published: April 2004

Colombian datura virus was detected in the terrestrial orchid Spiranthes cernua using a combination of enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR strategy that we used to detect and confirm the identity of this virus has subsequently been used as a generalized procedure to confirm the identity of other potyviruses in ornamental species. This is the first report of this virus in an orchid and only the second report of a virus in this species.
Control of Postharvest Diseases of Organically Grown Strawberry with Preharvest Applications of some Food Additives and Postharvest Hot Water Dips
Authors: Karabulut O. A. , Arslan U. , Kuruoglu G.
Published: April 2004

Ethanol at 50% (v/v) and sodium bicarbonate at 1% (wt/v), either alone or in combination, were applied to organically grown strawberries 1 h before harvest to control the natural incidence of postharvest diseases. Botrytis cinerea was the major cause of decay in all of the experiments. In three experiments, ethanol significantly reduced the decay incidence after storage for 3 days at 1°C followed by 2 days at 24°C, while the efficacy of sodium bicarbonate was inconsistent. The combination of ethanol and sodium bicarbonate did not increase their efficacy. Postharvest hot water dips at 55 and 60°C for 30 s significantly reduced the decay incidence to 3.4 and 2.7%, respectively, while decay incidence in the control was 28.5% (the first experiment). The efficacy of the hot water treatments at 55 and 60°C for 30 s was consistent in three experiments. In the third experiment, the efficacy of hot water treatment at 60°C was significantly higher than that of hot water treatment at 55°C. All pre‐ and postharvest treatments significantly reduced natural fungal populations on the surfaces of fruits. None of the pre‐ and postharvest treatments caused surface injuries to the fruit or adversely affected weight loss and taste parameters.
A biological perspective on the structure and function of caseins and casein micelles
Authors: Smyth Edward , Clegg Roger A , Holt Carl
Published: April 2004

Caseins belong to a larger group of secreted calcium phosphate‐binding phosphoproteins that have a natively unfolded conformation. Nearly all members of the group are involved in aspects of calcium phosphate biology and nearly all have recognition sites for phosphorylation by the Golgi protein kinase. In the caseins these are often close together in the primary structure, forming the so‐called phosphate centres. Certain highly phosphorylated phosphopeptides derived from the calcium‐sensitive caseins will combine with amorphous calcium phosphate to form defined chemical complexes called calcium phosphate nanoclusters. Both the substructure of casein micelles and the partition of salts in milk can be explained quantitatively by the ability of the calcium‐sensitive caseins to sequester calcium phosphate and form nanocluster‐like structures. A simple stability rule for milk can be derived by applying equilibrium thermodynamics to the process of calcium phosphate sequestration. In principle, the stability rule can be extended to problems of instability encountered in milk‐processing operations and to the formulation of other types of high calcium foods.
Cultured dairy products: an overview of their gelation and texture properties
Authors: Lucey John A
Published: April 2004

There has been considerable research in recent years on the texture and sensory properties of cultured dairy products. This article gives an overview of the formation of structure in cultured products (primarily in relation to yoghurt, cottage cheese and sour cream) and suggests approaches to controlling their textural properties. Two important themes concerning this topic are first that the casein micelles are the building blocks of acid gels so casein chemistry and casein interactions are important, and second that an understanding of the gelation process is the key to controlling the physical properties of cultured products. The impact of several processing steps on the structure of cultured dairy products is discussed. Textural properties and the possible causes of defects such as whey separation and lumpiness are also discussed.
Salting and the role of salt in cheese
Authors: Guinee T P
Published: April 2004

Salt levels in cheese range from ∼0.7% (w/w) in Swiss‐type to ∼6% (w/w) in Domiati. Salt has three major functions in cheese: it acts as a preservative, contributes directly to flavour, and is a source of dietary sodium. Together with the desired pH, water activity and redox potential, salt assists in cheese preservation by minimizing spoilage and preventing the growth of pathogens. The dietary intake of sodium in the modern western diet is generally excessive, being two to three times the level recommended for desirable physiological function (2.4 g Na, or ∼6 g NaCl per day). However, cheese generally makes a relatively small contribution to dietary sodium intake except if high quantities of high‐salt cheeses such as Domiati and feta are consumed. In addition to these functions, salt level has a major effect on cheese composition, microbial growth, enzymatic activities and biochemical changes, such as glycolysis, proteolysis, lipolysis and para‐casein hydration, that occur during ripening. Consequently, the salt level markedly influences cheese flavour and aroma, rheology and texture properties, cooking performance and, hence, overall quality. Many factors affect salt uptake and distribution in cheese and precise control of these factors is a vital part of the cheesemaking process to ensure consistent, optimum quality.
Biochemistry of cheese ripening
Authors: McSweeney Paul L H
Published: April 2004

Rennet‐coagulated cheeses are ripened for periods ranging from about two weeks to two or more years depending on variety. During ripening, microbiological and biochemical changes occur that result in the development of the flavour and texture characteristic of the variety. Biochemical changes in cheese during ripening may be grouped into primary (lipolysis, proteolysis and metabolism of residual lactose and of lactate and citrate) or secondary (metabolism of fatty acids and of amino acids) events. Residual lactose is metabolized rapidly to lactate during the early stages of ripening. Lactate is an important precursor for a series of reactions including racemization, oxidation or microbial metabolism. Citrate metabolism is of great importance in certain varieties. Lipolysis in cheese is catalysed by lipases from various source, particularly the milk and cheese microflora, and, in varieties where this coagulant is used, by enzymes from rennet paste. Proteolysis is the most complex biochemical event that occurs during ripening and is catalysed by enzymes from residual coagulant, the milk (particularly plasmin) and proteinases and peptidases from lactic acid bacteria and, in certain varieties, other microorganisms that are encouraged to grow in or on the cheese. Secondary reactions lead to the production of volatile flavour compounds and pathways for the production of flavour compounds from fatty acids and amino acids are also reviewed.
Mammalian brain consumption by blood donors in the United States: brains today, deferred tomorrow?
Authors: Schreiber George B. , Sanchez Ana M. , Garratty George , Nass Catharie C. , Tu Yongling , Busch Michael P. ,   Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND: Theoretical concerns of possible variant CJD (vCJD) transmission by transfusion have led to deferral of US donors potentially exposed to the bovine spongiform encephalopathy agent. Although the efficacy of these policies is unknown, impact on blood collections has been substantial. Under the precautionary principle, deferral of donors consuming bovine (or other mam‐malian) brains, possibly contaminated with the vCJD agent, might be considered. Blood donors were surveyed to determine lifetime mammalian brain consumption.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study (REDS) conducted an anonymous mail survey of 92,581 donors from eight US blood centers.

RESULTS: Responses were received from 52,650 donors (57%). Of these, 6.4 percent reported lifetime brain consumption; bovine (3.6%) and hog brains (1.7%) were the most common. Bovine brain consumption varied fourfold by center (1.7‐7.0%) and was highest among male (4.5%), older (age 55+, 6.5%), foreign‐born (9.2%), Asian (7.2%), and Hispanic (8.6%) donors. Among bovine brain consumers, 67 percent engaged in the practice 4 times or less, 79 percent were repeat donors, and 61 percent reported giving at least 11 donations in the past 10 years.

CONCLUSION: Following the precautionary principle, further steps to reduce the theoretical vCJD risk could include deferring donors who eat bovine (or other mammalian) brains. The impact of such a policy would not be trivial, especially in areas with older, foreign‐born, Asian, or Hispanic donors. Cautious implementation and periodic evaluation of deferral policies is warranted.
Collection of two consecutive neutrophil concentrates for transfusion from donors mobilized with glycosylated granulocyte‐CSF plus dexamethasone
Authors: Heuft H.G. , Goudeva L. , Schwella N. , Blasczyk R.
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to establish a mobilization and apheresis regimen for collection of two consecutive polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) concentrates from the same donor.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In this prospective study, 111 healthy unrelated volunteers underwent either one (Group 1, n = 57) or two consecutive granulocyte apheresis procedure (Group 2, n = 54) using the a cell separator (Spectra). Both Group 1 and 2 donors were initially mobilized with glycosylated G‐CSF 6.0 µg per kg (range, 5.2‐7.0 µg/kg) subcutaneously plus oral dexa‐methasone (DXM, 8 mg) and underwent granulocyte apheresis (GA‐1) 16 hours (range, 13‐18 hr) after initial G‐CSF+DXM. Group 2 donors were remobilized with a second DXM dose of 8 mg (n = 13), 4 mg (n = 15), 1.5 mg (n = 13), or none (n = 13), and a second apheresis (GA‐2) was run 40 hours (range, 37‐42 hr) after G‐CSF+DXM administration and 12 hours after remobilization with DXM alone.

RESULTS: Based on equivalent median preapheresis WBC and PMN counts of around 35 × 109 WBCs per L and 33 × 109 PMNs per L after initial mobilization the GA‐1 yields were 85 × 109 PMNs per U (range, 34‐150) in Group 1 and 75 × 109 PMNs per U (range, 35‐135) in Group 2 (p = 0.14, NS). In Group 2, median preapheresis values of 19.6 × 109 WBCs per L (range, 9.5‐37.0) and 16.6 × 109 PMNs per L (range, 8.8‐34.8) were measured after remobilization and GA‐2 yields of 49 × 109 WBCs per U (range, 26‐113) and 42 × 109 PMNs per U (range, 21‐95) were obtained. Borderline statistical differences in the GA‐2 yields were observed from the remobilized donors: 8 mg: 36 × 109 PMNs per U (range, 23‐60); 4 mg: 47 × 109 PMNs per U (range, 21‐56) (p ≤ 0.04); 1.5 mg: 45 × 109 PMNs per U (range, 23‐79); placebo: 36 × 109 PMNs per U (range, 26‐95) (p ≤ 0.04).

CONCLUSION: Two consecutive neutrophil concentrates for transfusion can be obtained after single stimulation with Lenograstim+DXM. A second application of DXM alone is necessary, but of limited value.
Substitution Glu480Lys in erythroid band 3 corresponds to the Fra blood group antigen and supports existence of the second ectoplasmic loop of band 3
Authors: Jarolim Petr , Kalábová Dana , Reid Marion E.
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND: Polymorphisms in extracellular loops of RBC band 3 correspond to antigens of the Diego blood group system. Of the seven putative extracellular loops, no mutations have until recently been found in the second, fifth, and sixth loops. We detected a substitution Glu480Lys that would be located in its second ectoplasmic loop. We hypothesized the substitution may underlie a novel antigen of the Diego system.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: IAT was performed using two different multispecific sera containing anti‐Fra and a series of multispecific sera containing antibodies against other blood group antigens of the Diego blood group system but not agglutinating Fr(a+) RBCs. Biosynthesis of band 3 was studied by RT‐PCR of reticulocyte RNA and electrophoresis of solubilized RBC membranes. Anion exchange function of band 3 was studied by measuring the influx of radiolabeled sulfate.

RESULTS: RBCs from the Glu480Lys carrier were agglutinated with sera containing anti‐Fra and not by sera with specificities for other antigens of the Diego system. We detected identical quantities of mRNA corresponding to the two band‐3 alleles and normal content of band 3 in the RBC membranes, as well as normal sulfate influx into RBCs from the Fra heterozygote.

CONCLUSIONS: We confirmed the previously reported molecular basis of the Fra antigen, thus providing supportive evidence for the existence of the second extracellular loop of band 3. We also demonstrated that this substitution does not affect mRNA stability, surface expression, and anion exchange function of band 3.
Clinical investigation of posttransfusion Kidd blood group typing using a rapid normalized quantitative polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Montalvo Lani , Walker Phyllis , Wen Li , Lim Wilfredo , Reed William , Busch Michael P. , Lee Tzong‐Hae
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND: Accurate typing of a patient's RBCs in the setting of prior transfusion or a hemolytic transfusion reaction is crucial in the selection of compatible blood but is time consuming, technically difficult, and sometimes impossible. To address this problem, a simple, rapid, and inexpensive quantitative PCR method was developed to identify the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of the Kidd blood group. We applied this method in a clinical investigation of 54 multiple‐transfusion patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Patients were eligible if they had received at least one RBC transfusion within 30 days and had a sample referred to our regional reference lab for assistance with compatibility testing requiring reticulocyte separation, hypotonic saline treatment, or chemical modification to remove IgG. We compared serologic result to the normalized quantitative PCR. For discrepants, or where no serologic type could be assigned, DNA sequencing characterized the patient's Kidd SNP.

RESULTS: Of the 54 patients, the reference lab could assign a serologic Kidd type for 33. Quantitative PCR assigned a Kidd type for 53 of the 54. In three cases, where serology and PCR were discrepant, and for all cases where serology could not assign a Kidd type, DNA sequencing verified the Kidd typing assigned by PCR.

CONCLUSION: A simple, rapid, and accurate technique has been developed. The assay performs well in the clinical setting. With further study, and inclusion of other blood group systems, this may become an important supplemental technique for selected patients in the immunohematology reference laboratory.
Estimating blood donor loss due to the variant CJD travel deferral
Authors: Murphy Edward L. , David Connor J. , McEvoy Patrick , Hirschler Nora , Busch Michael P. , Roberts Paula , Nguyen Kim‐Ank , Reich Pascale
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND: The FDA recommended new travel deferrals in May 2002 to prevent the potential transmission of variant CJD (vCJD). The predicted impact of such deferrals on the blood supply was controversial.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We distributed anonymous, self‐administered questionnaires to donors over 2 weeks in April 2002. Two thousand surveys were allocated to each of five geographic groupings of blood centers in the western and central US. Results were analyzed with chi‐squared tests and logistic regression.

RESULTS: Of 9800 surveys, 7405 (76%) were returned and analyzed. Overall, 257 (3.47%; 95% CI, 3.05‐3.89) donors responding to the survey met the expanded May and November 2002 FDA vCJD travel criteria for deferral. Deferral rates ranged from 1 percent or less in Northern and Southern centers, 3 to 4 percent in San Francisco, California, and Scottsdale, Arizona, to over 13 percent in El Paso, Texas (p < 0.0001). Service at a European military base was the most common reason for deferral, whereas in San Francisco most deferrals were for UK and European travel or residence. The vCJD deferral was also associated with ages 30 through 49 years and with male gender. During June through September 2002, observed deferral rates were 1.6 percent at the same centers.

CONCLUSIONS: Predicted deferrals due the new vCJD travel criteria depend upon the number of military donors at a blood center, as well as on the age and gender of donors. Actual deferrals were lower than predicted by an anonymous survey.
Current impact of the confidential unit exclusion option
Authors: Zou S. , Notari IV E.P. , Musavi F. , Dodd R.Y. ,   ARCNET Study Group
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND: In 1986, the FDA recommended using a confidential unit exclusion (CUE) option in blood centers; this was rescinded in 1992. The American Red Cross (ARC) has continued using the option. This study assessed its current impact.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Donor records from ARC for 1995 through 2001 were examined for CUE use in association with the prevalence and frequency of seroconversion of infectious disease markers. The likely yield of CUE was also estimated.

RESULTS: Donations with CUE use had a higher prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis markers than those without CUE use, although both the sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) of CUE were low. Seroconverters had a higher frequency of using the CUE option than nonseroconverters. Similarly, the sensitivity and PPV of CUE were low. Based on analysis of infectious disease residual risk, the CUE option was estimated to have prevented the collection of 0.2 to 1.3 window‐period units annually within the entire ARC system.

CONCLUSION: The CUE option had minimal effective‐ness in further reducing the transmission of infectious diseases through window‐period units. Further study of its current impact on reduction of units from risky but test‐negative donors, as well as on loss of safe donors, may be warranted.
Constitutive theories based on the multiplicative decomposition of deformation gradient: Thermoelasticity, elastoplasticity, and biomechanics
Authors: Lubarda Vlado A
Published: April 2004

Some fundamental issues in the formulation of constitutive theories of material response based on the multiplicative decomposition of the deformation gradient are reviewed, with focus on finite deformation thermoelasticity, elastoplasticity, and biomechanics. The constitutive theory of isotropic thermoelasticity is first considered. The stress response and the entropy expression are derived in the case of quadratic dependence of the elastic strain energy on the finite elastic strain. Basic kinematic and kinetic aspects of the phenomenological and single crystal elastoplasticity within the framework of the multiplicative decomposition are presented. Attention is given to additive decompositions of the stress and strain rates into their elastic and plastic parts. The constitutive analysis of the stress-modulated growth of pseudo-elastic soft tissues is then presented. The elastic and growth parts of the deformation gradient and the rate of deformation tensor are defined and used to construct the corresponding rate-type biomechanic theory. The structure of the evolution equation for growth-induced stretch ratio is discussed. There are 112 references cited in this review article.
The Effect of Ginkgo biloba Extract (EGb 761) on Hepatic Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Hepatic Microcirculation in CCl4 Rats
Authors: Zhang Chunqing , Zu Juren , Shi Hengmei , Liu Jiyong , Qin Chengyong
Published: April 2004

It has been shown that Ginkgo biloba Extract (EGb 761) increases peripheral and cerebral blood flow and microcirculation and improves myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury. This study was designed to investigate the effect of EGb 761 on hepatic endothelial cells and hepatic microcirculation. Sixty male Wister rats were divided into normal, carbon tetrachloride ( CCl 4) and EGb groups, and were given normal saline, CCl 4 and CCl 4 plus EGb 761, respectively, for 10 weeks. Samples were taken from the medial lobe of the rat livers ten weeks later. Hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells and other parameters of hepatic microcirculation were observed under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The amount of malondialdehyde (MDA), endothelin (ET-1), platelet-activating factor (PAF) and nitric oxide (NO) in liver tissue was determined by spectrophotometry and radioimmunoassay, respectively. Compared with the CCl 4 group, aggregation of blood cell or micro thrombosis in hepatic sinusoids, deposition of collagen in hepatic sinusoids and space of Disse, injury of endothelial cells and capillization of hepatic sinusoid was significantly reduced in the EGb group. The amount of MDA, ET-1 and PAF was markedly reduced in the EGb group than in the CCl 4 group, while no significant difference in the amount of NO was observed between the two groups. The results demonstrate that EGb 761 has protective effect on hepatic endothelial cells and hepatic microcirculation in rats with chronic liver injury induced by CCl 4. The mechanisms may involve its inhibition on ET-1, PAF and lipid peroxidation.
Production of Monoclonal Antibody Against Ginkgolic Acids in Ginkgo biloba Linn.
Authors: Loungratana P. , Tanaka H. , Shoyama Y.
Published: April 2004

A competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for ginkgolic acids (GAs) was developed using monoclonal antibody (MAb) 9F raised against 6-(13-formylheptyl) salicylic acid covalently coupled to bovine serum albumin (BSA). ELISA, at an effective measuring range of 300 ng/ml–1 μg/ml of GA 15:1, was successful in detecting GAs content in ginkgo leaves and standardized extracts due to the lack of cross-reactivity against various related compounds. The sensitive and simple immunoassay developed in this study was validated to be specific for the quantitative determination of total GAs content in ginkgo crude drugs with no interference from the sample matrix. The analytical recovery of spiked GA 15:1 was 103% in a concentration range between 10 and 40 mg/g dry weight of ginkgo leaves.
Hypolipidemic Effect ofGlycine tomentellaRoot Extract in Hamsters
Authors: Ko Yu-Jen , Wu Yueh-Wern , Lin Wen-Chuan
Published: April 2004

The influence of the aqueous crude extract of Glycine tomentella root (Leguminosae) on lipid metabolism was investigated in hyperlipidemic hamsters. It was found that the administration of the G. tomentella extract (GTE) leads to a decrease of high serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels induced by high-fat diet. The GTE also increased serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and decreased serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The reduction of serum triglyceride levels was accompanied by a significant decrease in the hepatic triglyceride content, while the cholesterol content was not changed. The results indicate that GTE is definitely an anti-hyperlipidemic agent, at least, in animals.
FUZZY BASED DESIGN OPTIMIZATION TO REDUCE THE CROSSTALK IN MICROSTRIP LINES
Authors: AHMAD T. , HOSSAIN M. A. , RAY A. K. , GHASSEMLOOY Z.
Published: April 2004

This paper presents an investigation of the design optimization in microstrip lines to reduce the crosstalk level using Fuzzy Logic. In microstrip lines length and spacing, termination conditions of interconnection and output impedance of gates are the major components that cause crosstalk. In order to design high speed printed circuit board (PCB) with optimum interconnection configuration, it is essential to reduce the crosstalk to its minimum tolerance level. A design methodology is proposed to correlate electrical parameters and physical configuration of lines to the crosstalk phenomena. This design is subsequently optimized using Fuzzy Logic to reduce the level of crosstalk. A set of experiments is carried out to demonstrate the capabilities of the design and optimization methods. The effect of the geometrical configuration of the lines on crosstalk, particularly the spacing, is highlighted.
ROUTABILITY-DRIVEN PACKING: METRICS AND ALGORITHMS FOR CLUSTER-BASED FPGAs
Authors: BOZORGZADEH E. , MEMIK S. OGRENCI , YANG X. , SARRAFZADEH M.
Published: April 2004

Most of the FPGA's area and delay are due to routing. Considering routability at earlier steps of the CAD flow would both yield better quality and faster design process. In this paper, we discuss the metrics that affect routability in packing logic into clusters. We are presenting a routability-driven clustering method for cluster-based FPGAs. Our method packs LUTs into logic clusters while incorporating routability metrics into a cost function. Based on our routability model, the routability in timing-driven packing algorithm is analyzed. We integrate our routability model into a timing-driven packing algorithm. Our method yields up to 50% improvement in terms of the minimum number of routing tracks compared to VPack (16.5% on average). The average routing area improvement is 27% over VPack and 12% over t-VPack.
EXACT MINIMIZATION OF ESOP EXPRESSIONS WITH LESS THAN EIGHT PRODUCT TERMS
Authors: STERGIOU STERGIOS , PAPAKONSTANTINOU GEORGE
Published: April 2004

An algorithm is proposed in this paper that finds exact exclusive-or sum-of-products of an arbitrary function, provided the number of product terms is less than eight. If the number of product terms in the minimal expression is more than seven, then the algorithm detects it and heuristically returns near-optimal expressions. The algorithm is time and space efficient even for functions with many input variables.
DYNAMIC QUANTUM LOGIC FOR QUANTUM PROGRAMS
Authors: BRUNET OLIVIER , JORRAND PHILIPPE
Published: April 2004

We present a way to apply quantum logic to the study of quantum programs. This is made possible by using an extension of the usual propositional language in order to make transformations performed on the system appear explicitly. This way, the evolution of the system becomes part of the logical study. We show how both unitary operations and two-valued measurements can be included in this formalism and can thus be handled logically.
DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR DEPENDABLE ROBOTIC ASSISTANTS
Authors: BISCHOFF RAINER , GRAEFE VOLKER
Published: April 2004

A large number of functionalities have been integrated into a single fully autonomous humanoid robot, HERMES. To evaluate the dependability of this extremely complex machine, and its ability to interact with strangers, HERMES was exhibited in a museum, far away from its home laboratory, for more than six months. During this period the robot and its skills were regularly demonstrated to the public by non-expert presenters up to 12 hours per day. Also, HERMES interacted with the visitors, chatted with them in English, French and German, answered questions and performed services as requested by them. Only three major failures occurred during the 6-month period, all of them caused by failures of commercially available modules that could easily be replaced. The key to this success was the dependability that had been originally designed into HERMES. During the design process certain design principles were followed in both hardware and software. These principles are introduced, and some long- and short-term experiments carried out with the real robot in real environments are presented. In fact, by demonstrating HERMES in the museum, at trade fairs and in TV studios — besides our institute environment — we have learned valuable lessons, especially regarding the interaction of a complex robotic assistant with unknown humans. Although we did not quantitatively evaluate the robot's performance or acceptance by the non-expert users, several qualitative results are given in this paper, and many videos highlighting these results can be downloaded from the HERMES homepage.
ZERO-MOMENT POINT — THIRTY FIVE YEARS OF ITS LIFE
Authors: VUKOBRATOVIĆ MIOMIR , BOROVAC BRANISLAV
Published: April 2004

This paper is devoted to the permanence of the concept of Zero-Moment Point, widely-known by the acronym ZMP. Thirty-five years have elapsed since its implicit presentation (actually before being named ZMP) to the scientific community and thirty-three years since it was explicitly introduced and clearly elaborated, initially in the leading journals published in English. Its first practical demonstration took place in Japan in 1984, at Waseda University, Laboratory of Ichiro Kato, in the first dynamically balanced robot WL-10RD of the robotic family WABOT. The paper gives an in-depth discussion of source results concerning ZMP, paying particular attention to some delicate issues that may lead to confusion if this method is applied in a mechanistic manner onto irregular cases of artificial gait, i.e. in the case of loss of dynamic balance of a humanoid robot.

After a short survey of the history of the origin of ZMP a very detailed elaboration of ZMP notion is given, with a special review concerning "boundary cases" when the ZMP is close to the edge of the support polygon and "fictious cases" when the ZMP should be outside the support polygon. In addition, the difference between ZMP and the center of pressure is pointed out. Finally, some unresolved or insufficiently treated phenomena that may yield a significant improvement in robot performance are considered.
State-Dependent GABAergic Inhibition of Sciatic Nerve-Evoked Responses of Dorsal Spinocerebellar Tract Neurons
Authors: Taepavarapruk Niwat , McErlane Shelly A. , Chan Angela , Chow Sylvia , Fabian Liz , Soja Peter J.
Published: April 2004

Peripheral nerve-evoked potentials recorded in the cerebellum 35 yr ago inferred that sensory transmission via the dorsal spinocerebellar tract (DSCT) is reduced occasionally and only during eye movements of active sleep compared with wakefulness or quiet sleep. A reduction or withdrawal of primary afferent input and/or ongoing inhibition of individual lumbar DSCT neurons may underlie this occurrence. This study distinguished between these possibilities by examining whether peripheral nerve-evoked responses recorded from individual DSCT neurons are suppressed specifically during active sleep, and if so, whether GABA mediates this phenomenon. Synaptic responses to threshold stimuli applied to the sciatic nerve were characterized by a single spike response at short latency and/or a longer latency burst of action potentials. During the state of quiet wakefulness, response magnitude did not differ from that observed during quiet sleep. During active sleep, short and long latency responses were suppressed by 26 and 14%, respectively, and returned to pre-active sleep levels following awakening from active sleep. Sciatic nerve-evoked early and late responses were further analyzed in a paired fashion around computer-tagged eye movement events that hallmark the state of active sleep. Response magnitude was suppressed by 14.4 and 11.5%, respectively, during eye movement events of active sleep. The GABAA antagonist bicuculline, applied juxtacellularly by microiontophoresis, abolished response suppression during non–eye movement periods and eye movement events of active sleep. In conclusion, synaptic transmission via DSCT neurons is inhibited by GABA tonically during non–eye movement periods and phasically during eye movement events of active sleep.
Disjunction, Focus, and Scope
Authors: Han Chung-hye , Romero Maribel
Published: April 2004

This article presents the observation that disjunction cannot take wide scope in negative non-wh-questions and declaratives with a preposed negative element. This rules out the alternative question reading for non-wh-questions with preposed negation and the wide scope or reading for neg-inverted declaratives. We show that effects parallel to the ones associated with preposed negation can be reproduced in affirmative non-wh-questions and declaratives when focus is involved. We propose that preposed negation in non-wh-questions and preposed negative adverbials in declaratives necessarily contribute focus marking (in particular, verum focus) and argue that the lack of wide scope disjunction reading in both declaratives and non-wh-questions results as a by-product of the interaction between focus and the LF syntax of disjunctive structures, which we argue involves ellipsis.
Using Inconsistency Detection to Overcome Structural Ambiguity
Authors: Tesar Bruce
Published: April 2004

The Inconsistency Detection Learner (IDL) is an algorithm for language learning that addresses the problem of structural ambiguity.If an overt form is structurally ambiguous, the learner must be capable of inferring which interpretation of the overt form is correct by reference to other overt data of the language.The IDL does this by attempting to construct grammars for combinations of interpretations of the overt forms, and discarding those combinations that are inconsistent. The potential of this algorithm for overcoming the combinatorial growth in combinations of interpretations is supported by computational results from an implementation of the IDL using an optimality-theoretic system of metrical stress grammars.
On Indefinite Pronoun Structures with APs: Reply to Kishimoto
Authors: Larson Richard K. , Marušič Franc
Published: April 2004

A number of authors have claimed that indefinite pronoun constructions like everything red are formed by raising a noun (thing) over a higher prenominal adjective (red). We examine phenomena in English and other languages which appear to show that adjectives participating in the indefinite pronoun construction do not correspond to prenominal forms, but to postnominal ones. We evaluate the challenges these results present for the N-raising account, showing that while some can be met, others apparently cannot. This outcome calls for a reexamination of postnominal position with indefinite pronouns.
Semitic Relatives
Authors: Ouhalla Jamal
Published: April 2004

This article evaluates a promotion-based analysis for Semitic relatives along the lines of Kayne 1994 and compares it with an alternative analysis that does not make use of promotion but shares with Kayne's analysis an antisymmetric view of phrase structure. The alternative analysis is based on establishing a parametric distinction relating to categorial identity of the relative clause such that it is a CP in some languages and a DP in others. The first type is found in languages where the relative complementizer is the same as the normal complementizer of sentential complementation (e.g., Hebrew). The second type is found in languages where the relative complementizer is a determiner (e.g., Amharic and Arabic). This difference is shown to have crucial implications for the structure and derivation of N-initial and N-final relatives, as well as for some relevant typological generalizations, including a generalization relating to the phenomenon of (relative) clause nominalization.