bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jump Processes in Commodity Futures Prices and Options Pricing
Authors: Hilliard Jimmy E. , Reis Jorge A.
Published: July 2006

Empirical evidence shows that log‐return relatives on commodity futures prices are not normally distributed. This departure from normality seems to be caused by large price changes occurring in the commodity markets with the arrival of important new information. This suggests that a jump‐diffusion model may be a plausible choice for modeling the stochastic process underlying commodity option prices. Merton (1976a) develops a jump‐diffusion option pricing model assuming that jump risk is unsystematic. However, the jump‐diffusion model developed by Bates (1991) is more appropriate for commodity option pricing since it allows jump risk to be systematic. In this article, recent transactions data on futures and futures options are used to test out‐of‐sample options using American versions of Black's diffusion and Bates's jump‐diffusion models. The results show that Bates's model performs considerably better than Black's model. Jump‐diffusion Asian option prices are also shown to differ considerably from geometric Brownian motion Asian option prices.
U.S. Trade Threats: Rhetoric or War?
Authors: Kherallah Mylène , Beghin John
Published: July 2006

We present an empirical analysis of factors determining trade wars and agreements under U.S. trade law Section 301. A system of two probit equations is estimated using historical data on Section 301 cases to determine which economic and political factors increase the likelihood of trade frictions. The likelihood of trade war increases when the United States's export share in the world market declines, when the United States is less dependent on the market of the targeted country, when foreign policy makers are in an election year, and when negotiations relate to highly protected and unionized industries in the targeted country.
Titelbild: Ein konjugierter Polycarbazol‐Makrocyclus mit Porphyrin‐Kern (Angew. Chem. 28/2006)
Authors: Jung Sung‐Hyun , Pisula Wojciech , Rouhanipour Ali , Räder Hans Joachim , Jacob Josemon , Müllen Klaus
Published: July 2006

Wie ein Saturnring …︁…︁ wurde ein voll konjugiertes Cyclododeca‐2,7‐carbazol um ein Porphyrin‐Templat gelegt; anschließend wurde der leere Makrocyclus freigesetzt. Im Bild sieht man die rastertunnelmikroskopische Aufnahme eines einzelnen Moleküls mit der Struktur des Cyclododeca‐2,7‐carbazols im Vordergrund. Der Tunnelstrom wird von der konjugierten cyclischen Struktur dominiert und zeigt ein “elektronisches Loch” im Zentrum. Details sind in der Zuschrift von K. Müllen et al. auf S. 4801 ff. nachzulesen.
Total Synthesis of (±)‐Pallavicinin and (±)‐Neopallavicinin
Authors: Peng Xiao‐Shui , Wong Henry N. C.
Published: July 2006

Through a biomimetic pathway, (±)‐pallavicinin and (±)‐neopallavicinin were synthesized from (±)‐Wieland–Miescher ketone via Grob fragmentation, intramolecular aldol cyclization, and intramolecular Michael reaction. The synthesis was stereocontrolled efficiently and followed the stereochemistry of the Wieland–Miescher ketone, and could provide opportunities for access to analogues of pallavicinin, neopallavicinin, and other related bioactive diterpenoids.
Brachial loop: Transradial technique to overcome this rare anatomic variation
Authors: Wang Huang‐Joe , Lee Kung‐Wei , Hsieh Dong‐Jim
Published: July 2006

A brachial loop is a rare anatomic variation and can result in the failure of transradial coronary procedures. We report a brachial loop encountered in a patient undergoing a coronary angiogram. During this angiogram, a 0.035″ J‐tipped Teflon‐coated guidewire met with resistance in the brachial artery because of this rare vascular loop. In this case report, we discuss the technique we used to manage this rare condition. Interventional cardiologists should keep in mind that resistance of the guidewire can result in major vessel complications during the transradial approach. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stenting of stenosed shunts in patients after a Norwood‐Sano operation
Authors: Eicken Andreas , Genz Thomas , Sebening Walter
Published: July 2006

Early shunt stenosis may occur after a Norwood‐Sano operation. We report our experience with three patients who were treated successfully by stent implantation into the Sano shunt. Hence, a surgical shunt revision could be avoided. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Substituted Prolines: Syntheses and Applications in Structure—Activity Relationship Studies of Biologically Active Peptides
Authors: Karoyan Philippe , Sagan Sandrine , Lequin Olivier , Quancard Jean , Lavielle Solange , Chassaing Gerard
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Novel Core—Shell‐Structured Li[(Ni0.8Co0.2)0.8 (Ni0.5Mn0.5)0.2]O2 via Coprecipitation as Positive Electrode Material for Lithium Secondary Batteries.
Authors: Sun Yang‐Kook , Myung Seung‐Taek , Shin Ho‐Suk , Bae Young Chan , Yoon Chong Seung
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis of Complex Carbohydrates and Glyconjugates: Enzymatic Synthesis of Globotetraose Using β‐1,3‐N‐Acetylgalactosaminyltransferase LgtD from Haemophilus Influenzae Strain Rd
Authors: Ryu Kang , Lin Steven , Shao Jun , Song Jing , Chen Min , Wang Wei , Li Hanfen , Yi Wen , Wang Peng George
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Toward Improved Catalytic Low‐Temperature NOx Removal in Diesel‐Powered Vehicles
Authors: Klingstedt Frederik , Arve Kalle , Eraenen Kari , Murzin Dmitry Yu.
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A Broensted Acid and Lewis Base Organocatalyst for the Aza‐Morita—Baylis—Hillman Reaction.
Authors: Matsui Katsuya , Takizawa Shinobu , Sasai Hiroaki
Published: July 2006

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Prenatal diagnosis of some metabolic diseases using early amniotic fluid samples: report of a 15 years, experience
Authors: Chadefaux‐Vekemans B. , Rabier D. , Cadoudal N. , Lescoat A. , Chabli A. , Aupetit J. , Dumez Y. , Oury J. F.
Published: July 2006

Background

In the present study, we report the results of 132 prenatal diagnoses performed on chorionic villi and cell‐free amniotic fluid obtained simultaneously at 12–13 weeks of gestation. In addition, we report the result of 59 prenatal diagnoses performed at 12–13th week using amniotic fluid only.

Methods and Results

A total of one fetal loss (1/191) was observed when a sample of amniotic fluid was obtained at around 12–13 weeks, whereas three losses (3/82) were observed after midtrimester amniocentesis. We attribute this finding to the fact that only a very small volume of amniotic fluid was sampled using a very small needle.

Conclusion

From these data it appears that when a couple is facing a high risk of recurrence of some metabolic diseases, the study of chorionic villus and amniotic fluid sampled simultaneously offers a safe and reliable method of early prenatal diagnosis. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multistep method for threading dislocation density reduction in MOCVD grown GaN epilayers
Authors: Lang T. , Odnoblyudov M. A. , Bougrov V. E. , Romanov A. E. , Suihkonen S. , Sopanen M. , Lipsanen H.
Published: July 2006

A new multistep MOCVD method for growing GaN is used to suppress threading dislocations in GaN epilayers on c ‐plane sapphire. A nucleation island density of as low as 2.5 × 107 cm–2 is reported. Developed subsequent overgrowth prevents the formation of new islands and stimulates the inclination of threading dislocations inside nucleation islands before their coalescence. GaN epilayers with a threading dislocation density of 5.0 × 107 cm–2 are grown by the method. Nucleation island morphology and threading dislocation density are analyzed by atomic force microscopy. Transmission electron microscopy is used to support the results for the threading dislocation density and to evaluate the epitaxial relationship of the GaN films. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electrostatic solitary structures in a charge-varying pair–ion–dust plasma
Authors: TRIBECHE MOULOUD , GOUGAM LEILA AIT , BOUBAKOUR NADIA , ZERGUINI TAHA HOUSSINE
Published: July 2006

Large-amplitude electrostatic solitary structures are investigated in an unmagnetized charge-varying pair–ion–dust plasma in which electrons and positrons have equal masses. Their spatial patterns are significantly modified by the presence of the positron component. In particular, it may be noted that an addition of a small concentration of positrons abruptly reduces the potential pulse amplitude as well as the net negative charge residing on the dust grain surface. Under certain conditions, the solitary wave suffers the well-known anomalous damping leading to the development of collisionless shock waves. This investigation may be taken as a prerequisite for the understanding of the electrostatic solitary waves that may occur in space dusty plasmas.
Optimization-based trajectory planning of the human upper body
Authors: Abdel-Malek Karim , Mi Zan , Yang Jingzhou , Nebel Kyle
Published: July 2006

This paper presents studies of the coordination of human upper body voluntary movement. A minimum-jerk 3D model is used to obtain the desired path in Cartesian space, which is widely used in the prediction of human reach movement. Instead of inverse kinematics, a direct optimization approach is used to predict each joint's profile (a spline curve). This optimization problem has four cost function terms: (1) Joint displacement function that evaluates displacement of each joint away from its neutral position; (2) Inconsistency function, which is the joint rate change (first derivative) and predicted overall trend from the initial target point to the final target point; (3) The non-smoothness function of the trajectory, which is the second derivative of the joint trajectory; (4) The non-continuity function, which consists of the amplitudes of joint angle rates at the initial and final target points, in order to emphasize smooth starting and ending conditions. This direct optimization technique can be used for potentially any number of degrees of freedom (DOF) system and it reduces the cost associated with certain inverse kinematics approaches for resolving joint profiles. This paper presents a high redundant upper-body modeling with 15 DOFs. Illustrative examples are presented and an interface is set up to visualize the results.
Special issue on quantum programming languages
Authors: SELINGER PETER
Published: July 2006

This special issue of Mathematical Structures in Computer Science grew out of the 2nd International Workshop on Quantum Programming Languages (QPL 2004), which was held July 12–13, 2004 in Turku, Finland. The purpose of the workshop was to bring together researchers working on mathematical formalisms and programming languages for quantum computing. It was the second in a series of workshops aimed at addressing a growing interest in logical tools, languages, and semantical methods for analysing quantum computation.
Isolation of quiescent and nonquiescent cells from yeast stationary-phase cultures
Authors: Allen Chris , Büttner Sabrina , Aragon Anthony D. , Thomas Jason A. , Meirelles Osorio , Jaetao Jason E. , Benn Don , Ruby Stephanie W. , Veenhuis Marten , Madeo Frank , Werner-Washburne Margaret
Published: July 2006

Quiescence is the most common and, arguably, most poorly understood cell cycle state. This is in part because pure populations of quiescent cells are typically difficult to isolate. We report the isolation and characterization of quiescent and nonquiescent cells from stationary-phase (SP) yeast cultures by density-gradient centrifugation. Quiescent cells are dense, unbudded daughter cells formed after glucose exhaustion. They synchronously reenter the mitotic cell cycle, suggesting that they are in a G0 state. Nonquiescent cells are less dense, heterogeneous, and composed of replicatively older, asynchronous cells that rapidly lose the ability to reproduce. Microscopic and flow cytometric analysis revealed that nonquiescent cells accumulate more reactive oxygen species than quiescent cells, and over 21 d, about half exhibit signs of apoptosis and necrosis. The ability to isolate both quiescent and nonquiescent yeast cells from SP cultures provides a novel, tractable experimental system for studies of quiescence, chronological and replicative aging, apoptosis, and the cell cycle.
CD127 expression inversely correlates with FoxP3 and suppressive function of human CD4+ T reg cells
Authors: Liu Weihong , Putnam Amy L. , Xu-yu Zhou , Szot Gregory L. , Lee Michael R. , Zhu Shirley , Gottlieb Peter A. , Kapranov Philipp , Gingeras Thomas R. , de St. Groth Barbara Fazekas , Clayberger Carol , Soper David M. , Ziegler Steven F. , Bluestone Jeffrey A.
Published: July 2006

Regulatory T (T reg) cells are critical regulators of immune tolerance. Most T reg cells are defined based on expression of CD4, CD25, and the transcription factor, FoxP3. However, these markers have proven problematic for uniquely defining this specialized T cell subset in humans. We found that the IL-7 receptor (CD127) is down-regulated on a subset of CD4+ T cells in peripheral blood. We demonstrate that the majority of these cells are FoxP3+, including those that express low levels or no CD25. A combination of CD4, CD25, and CD127 resulted in a highly purified population of T reg cells accounting for significantly more cells that previously identified based on other cell surface markers. These cells were highly suppressive in functional suppressor assays. In fact, cells separated based solely on CD4 and CD127 expression were anergic and, although representing at least three times the number of cells (including both CD25+CD4+ and CD25−CD4+ T cell subsets), were as suppressive as the “classic” CD4+CD25hi T reg cell subset. Finally, we show that CD127 can be used to quantitate T reg cell subsets in individuals with type 1 diabetes supporting the use of CD127 as a biomarker for human T reg cells.
Women police units in India: a new direction
Authors: Natarajan Mangai
Published: July 2006

Twenty‐nine all‐women police units have recently (1994) been established by the Tamil Nadu State Police in South India. These units generally consist of 15 women constables and 2 sub‐inspectors under the command of an Inspector. They mainly deal with family‐related disputes and cases involving women and children, but also serve the full range of general police functions. The units were established for two main reasons: (i) to engender trust in the police among women victims and (ii) to provide an independent career structure for women police officers. Interviews with officers in five of these units revealed a high level of satisfaction with the work and the career prospects. Many more of the women in the units than in a general sample of women officers questioned in 1988 expressed interest in performing the full range of police duties, but they also said they would like to do this in units staffed only by women. More detailed evaluations of the units are needed to see how far the units address the needs of women police officers in traditional cultures.
Evaluation of standardized field sobriety tests training in North Carolina
Authors: Lord Vivian B.
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of SFST training in North Carolina. Effectiveness was assessed by comparing differences in the following variables before and after training: (1) the officers’ DWI arrest rates, (2) the officers’ DWI conviction rates, and (3) the arrested drivers’ blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels. Other variables examined included: the officers’ confidence levels in (4) identifying DWI drivers, (5) writing complete and accurate reports about DWI drivers; and (6) testifying clearly and convincingly in court. The results of this study suggest that officers equipped with SFST training are more confident in their abilities to detect DWI offenders, to write a complete and accurate report, and to testify in court clearly and convincingly. Also there is some evidence that these increased abilities correlate with an increase in DWI arrests.
Cloning and pharmacological characterization of the equine adenosine A2A receptor: a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of equine endotoxemia
Authors: BRANDON C. I. , VANDENPLAS M. , DOOKWAH H. , LINDEN J. , MURRAY T. F.
Published: July 2006

The aim of the current study was to clone the equine adenosine A2A receptor gene and to establish a heterologous expression system to ascertain its pharmacologic profile via radioligand binding and functional assays. An eA2A‐R expression construct was generated by ligation of the eA2A cDNA into the pcDNA3.1 expression vector, and stably transfected into human embryonic kidney cells (HEK). Binding assays identified those clones expressing the eA2A‐R, and equilibrium saturation isotherm experiments were utilized to determine dissociation constants (KD), and receptor densities (Bmax) of selected clones. Equilibrium competition binding revealed a rank order of agonist potency of ATL > CV‐1808 > NECA > 2‐CADO > CGS21680, and a rank order of antagonist potency as ZM241385 > 8‐phenyltheophylline > p‐sulfophenyltheophylline > caffeine. Furthermore, adenylate cyclase assays using selective A2A‐R agonists revealed that the eA2A‐R functionally coupled to Gαs as indicated by an increase in intracellular [3H]cAMP upon receptor activation. Finally, NF‐κB reporter gene assays revealed a CGS21680 concentration‐dependent inhibition of NF‐κB activity. These results indicate that the heterologously expressed eA2A‐R has a pharmacological profile similar to that of other mammalian A2A receptors and thus can be utilized for further characterization of the eA2A‐R to ascertain whether it can serve as a suitable pharmacological target for equine inflammatory disease.
Fat‐tailed gene flow in the dioecious canopy tree species Fraxinus mandshurica var. japonica revealed by microsatellites
Authors: GOTO S. , SHIMATANI K. , YOSHIMARU H. , TAKAHASHI Y.
Published: July 2006

Pollen flow, seed dispersal and individual reproductive success can be simultaneously estimated from the genotypes of adults and offspring using stochastic models. Using four polymorphic microsatellite loci, gene flow of the wind‐pollinated and wind‐seed‐dispersed dioecious tree species, Fraxinus mandshurica var. japonica, was quantified in a riparian forest, in northern Japan. In a 10.5‐ha plot, 74 female adults, 76 male adults and 292 current‐year seedlings were mapped and genotyped, together with 200 seeds. To estimate dispersal kernels of pollen and seeds, we applied normal, exponential power, Weibull, bivariate t‐distribution kernels, and two‐component models consisting of two normal distribution functions, one with a small and one with a large variance. A two‐component pollen flow model with a small contribution (26.1%) from short‐distance dispersal (σ = 7.2 m), and the rest from long‐distance flow (σ = 209.9 m), was chosen for the best‐fitting model. The average distance that integrated pollen flows inside and outside the study plot was estimated to be 196.8 m. Tree size and flowering intensity affected reproduction, and there appeared to be critical values that distinguished reproductively successful and unsuccessful adults. In contrast, the gene flow model that estimated both pollen and seed dispersal from established seedlings resulted in extensive seed dispersal, and the expected spatial genetic structures did not satisfactorily fit with the observations, even for the selected model. Our results advanced small‐scale individual‐based parentage analysis for quantifying fat‐tailed gene flow in wind‐mediated species, but also clarified its limitations and suggested future possibilities for gene flow studies.
Water Rights Markets: Social and Legal Considerations
Authors: Brajer Victor , Martin Wade E.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Complete reliance on water rights marketsfor an efficient allocation fails to recognize the impact of currently existing social externalities and legal uncertainties. Specifically, it is possible that water may have a “community value” which may not be captured in the market price of a water right, there by precluding an efficient market solution. Also, there are uncertainties related to the legal/institutional process currently governing the use of western water which have the same implications for the standard notion of economic efficiency. These result primarily from inconsistencies in the application of certain legal principles, and the incomplete definition and assignment of ownership rights to the use of water.
Annual California Poverty Estimates
Authors: Mogull Robert G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Annual estimates of the number of the poor in California for the years 1960–2000 are presented in six segments, all residents, whites, blacks, Hispanics, those over 65, and female headed households. Error rates of estimates are given by segment. Graphs illustrate all the estimates.
Belief
Authors: Barkley Rosser J.
Published: July 2006

Abstract

The important role of belief in economic theorizing, ideology formation, and individual behavior is examined. Its role in the making of unrealistic assumptions in economic theory is considered. The extent to which this derives from ideological predispositions and the relationship of ideology to theology is analyzed. The role of selfilling prophecies is examined as an example of belief driving economic action.
An Analysis of Authors and Institutions Contributing to The American Journal of Economics and Sociology, 1981–1993
Authors: Mehdizadeh Mostafa
Published: July 2006

Abstract. An analysis of academic participation in The American Journal of Economics and Sociology shows that the journal is a major outlet for comprehensive schools which emphasiize undergraduate programs, but others, including large research schools, are well represented. Although the AJES has encouraged interdisciplinary research in the social sciences from its inception, economists are the major contributors. Seventeen foreign countries, forty‐five states, and the District of Columbia are represented in the AJES with Eastern, Midwestern, and Western states being the most prominent.
Rent Control and The Supply of Housing Services: The Brookline Massachusetts Experience
Authors: Jackson Raymond
Published: July 2006

Abstract. The hypothesis that the short‐run and long‐run supply of housing services is unaffected by rent control is examined. It has been asserted that total housing services may remain unchanged when tenant supplied services are included and that capital improvements may return to normal after the initial loss in property values. Using data on health code violations and building permits from a town in metropolitan Boston, the analysis concludes that rent control diminishes the total supply of housing services in the short‐run and reduces capital expenditures to maintain and improve housing services in the long‐run.
Henry George and The Reconstruction of Capitalism
Authors: Andelson Robert V.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. The moral basis for the recommendation of Henry George that land, not labor and capital, be taxed is explained. The justification is that the value of land is socially created by density of population and as a result of private and public improvements, such as roads and utilities. This policy is advocated on the basis of its very successful, if limited, use in many places. It is contended that the need for many forms of social intervention in the economic process, which have many side consequences, would be dramatically lessened.
Toward Monetary Union of the European Community
Authors: Kondonassis A. J. , Malliaris A. G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. European Community monetary integration has received periodic attention often as a result of financial crises but has now evolved into its major aim. To achieve this goal the European Monetary System was established in 1979. It was designed to provide a tool, the Exchange Rate Mechanism, for exchange rate stabilization and convergence of economic and monetary policies. To give further impetus to monetary integration the Maastricht Treaty was approved in December 1991. Experiences with the operation of the European Monetary System show that there is no conclusive evidence that it has disciplined the monetary and fiscal policies of all its members. More recently, Germany's insistence on a tight monetary‐ policy, to fight the inflation that resulted from unification costs, has brought turmoil in European financial markets and has dealt a serious blow to the system. Furthermore, the ensuing recession and its impact on the European economies make improbable that the timetable of the Maastricht Treaty will be met.
Downward Mobility
Authors: Smith Patricia K.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Absolute and relative downward income mobility during two periods of economic growth, 1976‐1978 and 1984‐1986, are examined using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. Relative downward mobility occurred less frequently during the 1984‐1986 period, but absolute downward mobility occulted more frequently during this same period. The characteristics of the downwardly mobile do not dramatically differ between the two periods. The majority live with a nonelderly, married, working man. Of the thirty‐six demographic groups considered, women who separate or divorce face the highest risk of downward mobility. However, their risk declined from the late seventies to the mid‐eighties. Persons whose household head was a race other than Caucasian and African‐American experienced the greatest increase in risk.
Henry George's Influence on John Bates Clark:
Authors: Stabile Donald R.
Published: July 2006

Abstract John Bates Clark's marginal productivity theory of income distribution has been portrayed as being derived from David Ricardo. This article traces the influence Henry George had on that theory in providing a standard for measuring labor's addition to aggregate output as comparable to what could be earned on no‐rent land. Following George, Jobn Bates Clark extended that standard to include no‐rent capital.
Congressional Term Limitations: Chadwickian Policy As An Antecedent To Modem Ideas
Authors: Mixon Franklin G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. An examination of the early writings of British policymaker Edwin Chadwick (1800‐1890) points out that his analysis of an artificial identification of interests in policy prescriptions serves as a precursor to modern ideas on the subject of legislative term limits. His work supports the writings of economists who argue that the private interests of public policymakers often diverge from those of the electorate, or the public interest. By giving legislators a monopoly right to govern, the political arena may be one area where Adam Smith's natural identity of interests does not prevail in practice. Statistical evidence is presented which supports the views of Chadwick and modern‐day public choice scholars on the subject.
Pennsylvania's Success with Local Property Tax Reform
Authors: Hartzok Alanna
Published: July 2006

Abstract Fifteen cities in Pennsylvania are pioneering an innovative approach to local tax reform that harnesses market incentives for urban renewal.

Opting for the so‐called “two‐rate” or “split‐rate”property tax, these cities are lowering taxes on buildings, thereby encouraging improvements and renovations, while raising the tax on land values, thus discouraging land speculation. The resulting infill development as indicated by increased building permits means downtown jobs, efficient use of urban infrastructure, an improved housing stock, and less urban sprawl.

Cities in other states are poised to follow Pennsylvania's example.
Compromising the Uncompromisable: Discrimination
Authors: Block Walter
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT The market system contains fail‐safe mechanisms to help those who are subjected to discrimination. A consistent libertarian political philosophy must come out for total repeal of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The law either is unnecessary or irrelevant. Efforts to claim that special legal privileges for minorities are reparations for years of enslavement or the equivalent are unconvincing. These “solutions” punish innocent people for the evil doings of others. This essay concludes with some thoughts about the forced transfer of some property now owned by whites to some blacks. A problem of social justice exists but it is not the problem addressed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Learning from Failures in Microfinance
Authors: Woolcock Michael J. V.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT Five cases of failure within group‐based microfinance programs are presented. I argue that group performance turns not only on the program's lending policies and cost structures–important as these are–but on the nature and extent of social relations (a) among potential and actual group members, (b) between group members and program staff, and (c) among program staff. Failures teach us important lessons regarding how (as opposed to why) these programs work in happier times. Those seeking to replicate microfinance programs, especially at the rate envisioned by the Microcredit Summit, need to pay serious attention to these institutional junctures.
Sulfated polysaccharides inhibit the catabolism and loss of both large and small proteoglycans in explant cultures of tendon
Authors: Samiric Tom , Ilic Mirna Z. , Handley Christopher J.
Published: July 2006

This study investigated the effects of two highly sulfated polysaccharides, calcium pentosan polysulfate and heparin, on the loss of newly synthesized proteoglycans from the matrix of explant cultures of bovine tendon. The tensional region of deep flexor tendon was incubated with [35S]sulfate for 6 h and then placed in culture for up to 15 days. The amount of radiolabel associated with proteoglycans lost to the medium and retained in the matrix was determined for each day in culture. It was shown that both sulfated polysaccharides at concentrations of 1000 µg·mL−1 inhibited the loss of 35S‐labeled large and small proteoglycans from the matrix and concomitant with this was a retention of chemical levels of proteoglycans in the explant cultures. In other explant cultures that were maintained in culture in the presence of both agents for more than 5 days after incubation with [35S]sulfate, inhibition of the intracellular catabolic pathway was evident, indicating that these highly sulfated polysaccharides also interfered with the intracellular uptake of small proteoglycans by tendon cells.
The FCGR2A— Arg131 variant is no major mortality factor in the elderly — evidence from a German centenarian study
Authors: Flesch B. K. , Nikolaus S. , El Mokhtari N. E. , Schreiber S. , Nebel A.
Published: July 2006

The functional single nucleotide polymorphism rs1801274 in the FCGR2A gene (His131Arg) influences the efficiency of hIgG2 binding, the main isotype produced in response to encapsulated bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. In contrast to the receptor with the His131 allele, FcγRIIa‐Arg131 binds hIgG2 poorly and carriers of this variant have been shown to be much more susceptible to succumb to bacterial pneumonia or meningitis. As bacteraemic pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in elderly individuals, we hypothesized that the Arg131 variant could be a major mortality factor in the old. We analysed the FCGR2A‐His131Arg polymorphism in a group of 408 German centenarians and two samples of younger Germans aged 60–75 and 18–49 years, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed between the three age groups, neither at the allele nor at the genotype level. Apparently, the ability to reach old age is largely unaffected by the genetically determined efficacy of the FCGR2A‐based immune response. However, the severely reduced ability of FCGR2A‐131Arg carriers to eliminate encapsulated bacteria must apparently be compensated by an alternative mechanism, possibly involving other genetic survival factors.
8q Gain Is an Independent Predictor of Poor Survival in Diagnostic Needle Biopsies from Prostate Cancer Suspects
Authors: Ribeiro Franclim R. , Jerónimo Carmen , Henrique Rui , Fonseca Daniel , Oliveira Jorge , Lothe Ragnhild A. , Teixeira Manuel R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose: The main procedure to confirm a suspected diagnosis of prostate cancer is histologic analysis of ultrasound-guided sextant prostate biopsies. As it is difficult to reliably assess tumor stage and grade in such minute samples, the clinical significance of some tumor foci remains unclear. Genetic markers that could augment pretreatment prognostic information would improve the clinical management of the disease.

Experimental Design: We have analyzed by comparative genomic hybridization a consecutive series of prostate needle biopsies obtained prospectively from 100 prostate cancer suspects. For 25 of these patients, a second independent biopsy core was analyzed to assess possible tumor heterogeneity. Additionally, a three-color fluorescent in situ hybridization assay was done in paraffin-embedded biopsy cores to validate the comparative genomic hybridization findings and to confirm their prognostic value.

Results: Sixty-one of 100 biopsy samples had morphologic evidence of prostate cancer and 41 (67%) of these displayed genomic copy number changes as opposed to none of the morphologically normal biopsies. The presence of losses, amplifications, and the total number of genomic imbalances were significantly associated with poorly differentiated tumors. Kaplan-Meier curves with log-rank test showed that patients whose tumors displayed 8q gains had a significantly worse survival even when tumor grade was taken into account (P = 0.008). Restricting the analysis to cases with Gleason score 7, the most troublesome category in terms of prognostic information, gains at 8q were still significantly associated with poor survival (P = 0.011), something that was confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridization in an independent series of biopsies with much longer follow-up time (P = 0.023).

Conclusions: We show that whole genomic information can be obtained from minute needle biopsies of prostate cancer suspects and that genetic data can provide additional prognostic information before a therapeutic decision is taken.
Development of an etoposide prodrug for dual prodrug-enzyme antitumor therapy
Authors: Yoon K. Jin , Qi Jianjun , Remack Joanna S. , Virga Kristopher G. , Hatfield M. Jason , Potter Philip M. , Lee Richard E. , Danks Mary K.
Published: July 2006

Enzyme-prodrug approaches to cancer therapy, theoretically, have the potential to mediate tumor-selective cytotoxicity. However, even if tumor-specific prodrug activation is achieved, enzyme-prodrug systems investigated thus far comprised a single enzyme and a specific prodrug. Although targeted, such systems constitute single-agent therapy, which may be ineffective and/or may promote development of drug resistance. Therefore, a goal of our laboratories was to design and characterize a novel dipiperidinyl derivative of etoposide [1,4′-dipiperidine-1′-carboxylate-etoposide (dp-VP16)] that would act as a prodrug. We envisioned that dp-VP16 would be converted to the active chemotherapeutic agent VP-16 by the same rabbit carboxylesterase (rCE) that we have previously shown to efficiently activate the prodrug irinotecan (CPT-11). This dp-VP16 prodrug might then be used in combination with CPT-11, with both drugs activated by a single enzyme. We evaluated the ability of pure rCE and two human carboxylesterases, hCE1 and hiCE (hCE2), to activate dp-VP16 in vitro, and in neuroblastoma cell lines designed to express/overexpress each enzyme. In SK-N-AS neuroblastoma cell transfectants, expression of rCE or hiCE decreased the IC50 of dp-VP16 as a single agent by 8.3- and 3.4-fold, respectively, in growth inhibition assays. Purified hCE1 did not metabolize dp-VP16 in vitro and did not affect its IC50 in intact cells. The combination indices of sequential exposure to CPT-11 followed by dp-VP16 ranged from ∼0.4 to 0.6, suggesting that this combination produced greater-than-additive cytotoxicity in neuroblastoma cells expressing rCE. These data provide proof-of-principle that enzyme-prodrug therapy approaches comprised of prodrugs with complementary mechanisms of cytotoxicity that are activated by a single enzyme can be developed. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(6):1577–84]
Endothelial growth factors VEGF and bFGF differentially enhance monocyte and neutrophil recruitment to inflammation
Authors: Zittermann Sandra I , Issekutz Andrew C
Published: July 2006

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) are produced at sites of inflammation. Previously, we demonstrated that bFGF enhances leukocyte recruitment and endothelial cell adhesion molecule (CAM) expression during inflammation. Here, we investigated the influence of VEGF during acute inflammation and whether VEGF and bFGF cooperate to modulate leukocyte recruitment. Inflammation was induced in skin of rats by intradermal injection of inflammatory stimuli ± VEGF ± bFGF. Migration of 51Cr-monocytes and 111In-polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) to the dermal lesions and 125I-anti-CAM monoclonal antibody binding to the dermal vasculature were quantitated after 2 h. VEGF significantly enhanced tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α)-induced monocyte recruitment by 39 ± 16% and increased P-selectin, E-selectin, and intercellular CAM-1 expression by two- to threefold over TNF-α alone. However, recruitment of monocytes to TNF-α + interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and of PMN to all stimuli tested was not affected by VEGF. In contrast, bFGF enhanced recruitment of both leukocyte types to all stimuli tested. With the potent TNF-α + IFN-γ stimulus, in contrast to bFGF, VEGF did not enhance E-selectin or ICAM-1 expression. bFGF, but not VEGF, increased the chemotactic activity for PMN in TNF-α + IFN-γ-inflamed sites by 54%. The limited effect of VEGF on these mechanisms likely contributed to the differential effect of VEGF and bFGF on leukocyte recruitment. However, VEGF + bFGF increased PMN recruitment more than did either factor alone. Thus, bFGF and VEGF differentially but synergistically enhance leukocyte recruitment to inflammatory stimuli and individually as well as jointly function as positive regulators of inflammatory cell recruitment.
The survival of differentiating embryonic stem cells is dependent on the SCF-KIT pathway
Authors: Bashamboo Anu , Taylor A. Helen , Samuel Kay , Panthier Jean-Jacque , Whetton Anthony D. , Forrester Lesley M.
Published: July 2006

The stem cell factor (SCF)-KIT signal transduction pathway plays a role in the proliferation, differentiation and survival of a range of stem and progenitor cell types but little is known about its function in embryonic stem (ES) cells. We generated ES cells carrying a null allele of Kit as well as a knock-in allele that encodes an SCF-independent hybrid KIT receptor that can be activated by the FKBP binding drug, AP20187. KIT null ES cells die when induced to differentiate upon withdrawal of leukaemia inhibitory factor in monolayer culture. This phenotype is recapitulated in wild-type ES cells treated with a KIT-neutralising antibody and reversed in mutant cells by activation of the hybrid KIT receptor. Differentiating KIT null ES cells exhibit elevated levels of DNA laddering and reduced BCL2 expression, indicative of apoptosis. We conclude that mouse ES cell differentiation in vitro is dependent on the SCF-KIT pathway contrasting with the apparently normal differentiation of KIT null inner cell mass or epiblast cells in vivo. This discrepancy could be explained by the presence of compensatory signals in the embryo or it could lend support to the idea of a phenotypic relationship between ES cells and early germ cells.
Novel function of β-arrestin2 in the nucleus of mature spermatozoa
Authors: Neuhaus Eva M. , Mashukova Anastasia , Barbour Jon , Wolters Dirk , Hatt Hanns
Published: July 2006

A growing number of proteins originally found in endocytic structures of the plasma membrane appear to be able to traffic into the nucleus, but the cellular function of this translocation remains unclear. We have found that β-arrestin2, which typically shows a cytoplasmic localization owing to constitutive nuclear export, appears in the nucleus after stimulation of the G-protein-coupled odorant receptor hOR17-4. In the nucleus, β-arrestin2 was involved in transcriptional regulation as shown by a Gal4-based transactivation assay. Moreover, we discovered that β-arrestin2 and hOR17-4, a receptor known to have a role in sperm-egg communication, colocalize in the midpiece of mature human spermatozoa. Stimulation of hOR17-4 in spermatozoa induced PKA-dependent translocation of β-arrestin2 to the nucleus and nuclear accumulation of phosphorylated MAPKs. Analysis of the interaction partners of β-arrestin2 indicates that odorant receptor signaling in spermatozoa may be important for the regulation of gene expression during the early processes of fertilization.
Cyanation of Alcohols with Diethyl Cyanophosphonate and 2,6-Dimethyl-1,4-benzoquinone by a New Type of Oxidation–Reduction Condensation
Authors: Masutani Kouta , Minowa Tomofumi , Hagiwara Yoshiaki , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: July 2006

Cyanation of various alcohols by a new type of oxidation–reduction condensation is described. Primary alkyl diphenylphosphinites, 2,6-dimethyl-1,4-benzoquinone (DMBQ), and diethyl cyanophosphonate gave the corresponding nitriles in high yields. During the above experiment on cyanation of 4-phenylbutan-2-ol, the unexpected formation of a mixture of nitrile and isocyanide was observed. After careful examination of the reaction conditions, selective synthesis of isocyanides from secondary alcohols was successfully accomplished by the use of zinc oxide (ZnO) as an additive. Reaction of tertiary alcohols provided the corresponding isocyanides exclusively in the absence of an additive. Cyanation of optically active alcohols was tried in order to clarify the stereochemistry of this reaction, and the reaction was thus proved to proceed with the inversion of configuration.
Cationic Au(I)- and Pt(II)-Catalyzed Silylation of Alcohols Using Allylsilanes
Authors: Shibata Takanori , Kanda Kazumasa , Ueno Yasunori , Fujiwara Ryo
Published: July 2006

The silylation of alcohols using allylsilanes was catalyzed by cationic Au(I) and Pt(II) species, which were prepared in situ from the metal chlorides ([AuCl(PPh3)], PtCl2) and a silver salt. TBS-, TES-, and TIPS-protections of various alcohols and carboxylic acids could be possible.
Evaluation of Alternative Flexibility Restraint Procedures for Recursive Programming Models Used for Prediction
Authors: Miller Thomas A.
Published: July 2006

Recursive programming models for estimating production response may be generalized from the original “recursive” formulation to a formulation that simply attempts to limit the linear programming solution to a reasonable subset. This article outlines a framework for evaluating the effect of alternative flexibility restraint procedures on the accuracy of such recursive programming models. Statistical estimates are developed for the total expected error of predictions, given a specified set of population and model characteristics. The analysis suggests that recursive programming models achieve some measure of statistical accuracy.
Opportunity Cost of Time and Other Socioeconomic Effects on Away‐From‐Home Food Consumption
Authors: Prochaska Fred J. , Schrimper R. A.
Published: July 2006

Viewing the household as both a producing and consuming unit suggests the opportunity cost of the homemaker's time to be an important factor affecting food consumption. Opportunity cost of time is shown empirically to have a positive affect on away‐from‐home consumption for employed homemakers in all 12 region‐urbanization classes studied. The same response is shown for unemployed homemakers in most classes. Furthermore, the estimated bias associated with income elasticities estimated without adjustment for the time input was significant in most cases. Estimated effects of income, family composition and size, and race on away‐from‐home food consumption are analyzed.
A Note on Some Monte Carlo Results on Non‐Negative Variance Estimators for a Random Coefficient Regression Model
Authors: Froehlich B. R.
Published: July 2006

A consistent estimator is used as a first step in estimating variances. Since this procedure frequently gives negative values, alternatives are proposed. One of these, the quadratic programming estimator, was believed to be superior to both of the others examined in this study. The experiment does not support this conjecture.
Agricultural Districts: A Compromise Approach to Agricultural Preservation
Authors: Conklin H. E. , Bryant W. R.
Published: July 2006

New York's Agricultural District Law contains a series of interrelated provisions designed to encourage the continuance of agriculture under conditions in which urban scatteration and consequent speculation would otherwise prematurely destroy it. Other states with similar rural land use problems may find New York's experience helpful.
The Solution of Nonlinear Separable Programs
Authors: Woodland A. D.
Published: July 2006

It is shown that separable nonlinear programming problems may be solved approximately by using existing quadratic programming algorithms. The approach is to approximate the gradient functions by segmented linear functions which implies the approximation of the objective function by a smooth series of quadratic functions. A numerical example illustrates the technique.
Peasant Risk Aversion and Allocative Behavior: A Quadratic Programming Experiment
Authors: Wiens Thomas B.
Published: July 2006

A quadratic risk programming model is used to examine the impact of yield uncertainty on peasant allocation of land among crops and use of hired factor services. The assumption of an exponential utility of income function permits sample estimation of the extent of risk aversion and interpretation of the dual solutions as shadow prices. Historical survey data on a Chinese village are used to show that optimization qualified by risk aversion proves superior to risk neutrality or credit constraints in explaining peasant allocative behavior.
Problems and Solutions in Estimating the Demand for and Value of Rural Outdoor Recreation
Authors: Gum Russell L. , Martin William E.
Published: July 2006

An improved methodology for estimating demand functions for outdoor recreation and evaluating the outdoor recreation resource by use classification is presented. The illustrative framework is a large‐scale empirical study of all outdoor recreation activities in all areas of Arizona. The use of the improved procedures produces estimates of resource values which are much larger than in most previous studies and which are about the size of estimates of gross variable expenditures. It is argued that the time has come to relax the search for improved estimating methodology and concentrate on interpretation of the estimates in studies of resource allocations.