bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monolithic CPW‐based multiband unconditionally stable common source and common gate mesfet amplifiers atKaband
Authors: Hammad Hany F. , Freundorfer Alois P. , Antar Yahia M. M.
Published: August 2002

The implementation of new monolithic amplifiers atKaband using a resistive–inductive feedback stabilized transistor is presented. The transistors used are designed to be unconditionally stable over several frequency bands. The design and modeling techniques of the different components of the amplifiers are described. The technique is applied to both MESFET common source and common gate configurations and is implemented in coplanar waveguide (CPW) technology. Good agreement between the theoretical and experimental results is obtained. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 34: 1–3, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10354
Hilbert curve fractal antenna: A small resonant antenna for VHF/UHF applications
Authors: Vinoy K. J. , Jose K. A. , Varadan V. K. , Varadan V. V.
Published: August 2002

The usefulness of fractal Hilbert curves in antenna geometry is explored here for the first time. Apart from being simple and self‐similar, these curves have the additional property of approximately filling a plane. These properties are exploited in realizing a “small” resonant antenna. This approach has resulted in an antenna size smaller than λ/10 and still resonant, with performance comparable to a dipole whose resonant length is close to λ/2. Numerical predictions of the input impedance of the antenna have been compared with experiments. The effect of additional fractal iterations on the reduction of the resonant frequency has been studied. The radiation characteristics of the antenna at the resonant frequencies provided show that this is very similar to the dipole characteristics. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 29: 215–219, 2001.
Integrated‐circuit pressed‐ceramic package antenna for the single‐chip solution of a wireless transceiver
Authors: Zhang Y. P. , Do M. A.
Published: August 2002

A novel integrated‐circuit pressed‐ceramic package antenna is proposed for the single‐chip solution of a wireless transceiver. The antenna printed on a dual‐in‐line package is studied experimentally at 2.4 GHz. The results show that the antenna has achieved a bandwidth of 15.7% and a gain of −2.0 dBi. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 30: 330–332, 2001.
A triangular dielectric resonator antenna excited by a coaxial probe
Authors: Kishk Ahmed A.
Published: August 2002

A dielectric resonator antenna of triangle shape is examined numerically and experimentally. The geometry is an equilateral triangular dielectric volume over a ground plane, and is excited by a coaxial probe to provide a broadside radiation pattern. An approximate expression is used to compute the resonance frequency. Results are verified experimentally and numerically. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 30: 340–341, 2001.
Exact noise analysis of distributed preamplifiers for optical receivers
Authors: Moura Luis , Monteiro Paulo , Darwazeh Izzat
Published: August 2002

In this letter, we present an exact and generic semianalytical tool for the noise characterization of distributed preamplifiers suitable for very high‐capacity optical transmission. The accuracy and flexibility of this tool allow the noise characterization to be effected in terms of input and output current and/or voltage spectral density. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 30: 416–418, 2001.
Effects of slotted and photonic bandgap ground planes on the characteristics of an air‐substrate annular‐ring patch antenna in the TM21mode
Authors: Lin Shun‐Yun , Wong Kin‐Lu
Published: August 2002

This paper presents an experimental study on the characteristics of annular‐ring patch antennas with slotted and photonic bandgap (PBG) ground planes for operation in the higher order TM21mode for conical‐pattern radiation. The antenna studied has an air–layer substrate, and is fed using a probe feed. Experimental results show that, for the case with a slotted ground plane, greatly lowered resonant frequency and enhanced impedance bandwidth can be obtained compared to the case with a regular ground plane. However, the front‐to‐back radiation ratio is greatly lowered. As for the case with a PBG ground plane, the impedance bandwidth is also enhanced. On the other hand, the resonant frequency is slightly increased, and the front‐to‐back radiation ratio is improved. Details of the experimental results are presented and discussed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 31: 1–3, 2001.
Analysis of scattering parameters and thermal noise of a MOSFET for its microwave frequency applications
Authors: Goswami Anisha , Gupta Mridula , Gupta R. S.
Published: August 2002

A fringing field‐effect‐dependent MOSFET equivalent‐circuit model for its microwave frequency applications has been developed. The thermal noise performance of the device has also been analyzed, including the distributed gate. The equivalent‐current noise source takes into account the thermal noise generated by the resistive and inductive gate, and the results so obtained are compared with experimental/simulated data, and are in close agreement. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 31: 97–105, 2001.
Synovial sarcoma in children and adolescents: Thirty three years of experience with multimodal therapy*
Authors: Okcu M. Fatih , Despa Simona , Choroszy Mary , Berrak Su G. , Cangir Ayten , Jaffe Norman , Raney R. Beverly
Published: August 2002

Background

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is the most common type of non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma in childhood, with controversies about its prognosis and treatment.

Procedure

We reviewed medical records of 42 children and adolescents with SS treated at our institution between 1966 and 1999 to determine treatment results and assess prognostic factors.

Results

With a median follow‐up duration of 7.8 years (range 0.2–22.4 years), 5‐year progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 75.6% (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 62–89.2%) and 87.7% (95% CI 77.3–98.1%) respectively. Eleven patients were dead and four others had progressed but were alive without evidence of disease after further therapy. IRS grouping and tumor invasiveness were found to be significant prognostic indicators (P < 0.01 and = 0.02, respectively). Patients with initial gross total resection (IRS I and II) and non‐invasive tumors (T1) were most likely to have prolonged PFS and OS. Patients with small tumors (< 5 cm) (P = 0.09) or with monophasic histology (P = 0.14) had better PFS and OS.

Conclusions

Achieving a complete resection or gross total resection with microscopic residual disease is vital for survival of patients with localized SS. Patients with localized disease who received radiotherapy had improved local control. Chemotherapy did not seem to impact PFS or OS. Future large multi‐institutional trials are needed to address whether post‐operative chemotherapy is necessary for patients with localized, surgically removed tumors, whether radiotherapy is necessary for patients with completely resected tumors, and to ascertain the order of importance of all the candidate prognostic markers. Med Pediatr Oncol 2001;37:90–96. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Localization and roles in fertilization of sperm proteasomes in the ascidian Halocynthia roretzi
Authors: Sawada Hitoshi , Takahashi Youko , Fujino Junko , Flores Sandra Y. , Yokosawa Hideyoshi
Published: August 2002

We previously reported that sperm proteasome is responsible for degradation of the ubiquitinated vitelline‐coat during fertilization in the ascidian Halocynthia roretzi. Here, we report the roles in fertilization and localization in the sperm cell surface of H. roretzi sperm proteasome. An anti‐proteasome antibody, as well as the proteasome inhibitors MG115 and MG132, inhibited the fertilization, indicating that the sperm proteasome functions extracellularly in ascidian fertilization. In order to further assess this issue, the sperm surface proteasome activity was labeled with a cell‐impermeable labeling reagent, NHS‐LC‐biotin, extracted with 0.1% CHAPS, and was subjected to a pull‐down assay with avidin–agarose beads. It was found that a substantial amount of sperm proteasome is exposed to the cell surface. Partition analysis with Triton X‐114 also revealed that a considerable amount of the sperm proteasome activity is partitioned into a lipid layer. Localization of the proteasome activity was investigated by fluorescence microscopy with succinyl‐Leu‐Leu‐Val‐Tyr‐4‐methylcoumaryl‐7‐amide as a substrate. The sperm proteasome activity was specifically detected in the sperm head region, and it was markedly activated upon sperm activation. The membrane‐associated proteasome was purified from the membrane fraction of H. roretzi sperm by affinity chromatography using an anti‐20S proteasome antibody‐immobilized Sepharose column. SDS–PAGE of the purified preparation showed a similar pattern of subunit composition to that of the 26S proteasome of mammalian origin. Taken together, these results indicate that H. roretzi sperm has the membrane‐associated proteasome on its head, which is activated upon sperm activation, and that sperm proteasome plays an essential role in H. roretzi fertilization. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 62: 271–276, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hyaluronan is an abundant constituent of the extracellular matrix of Xenopus embryos
Authors: Müllegger Johannes , Lepperdinger Günter
Published: August 2002

The spatiotemporal distribution of hyaluronan (HA), a major constituent of the vertebrate extracellular matrix, was analyzed during early embryonic development of Xenopus laevis. This polysaccharide is abundantly present in ventricular structures such as the blastocoel, the archenteron as well as later on in the hepatic cavity, the brain ventricles and the developing heart. At the blastula stage, HA was detected in the extracellular matrix of the ecto‐ and mesodermal primordia. Shortly before gastrulation, it becomes enriched at the basal site of the superficial cell layer of the ectoderm. During gastrulation, enhanced synthesis of HA takes place in the involuting marginal zone, shortly before invagination starts, hence, resulting in a torus‐like deposition in the deep layer of the equatorial mesodermal primordium. After gastrulation, HA appears to accumulate within the extracellular matrix demarcating the primary germ layers. During tailbud stages, it is found highly enriched in many mesodermal derivatives, e.g., in mesenchyme, the heart, precordal cartilage and the lung primordia. Furthermore, extracellular matrix of the ventral mesodermal cell layer in the trunk region and the immediate proximity of blood vessels contain high amounts of HA. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 61: 312–316, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mitochondrial defects in neurodegenerative disease
Authors: Wallace Douglas C.
Published: August 2002

Over the past 12 years, a wide variety of neurodegenerative diseases has been linked to mutations in mitochondrial genes located in either the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) or the nuclear DNA (nDNA). These disorders encompass an array of unorthodox inheritance patterns and a plethora of symptoms ranging from lethal neonatal multi‐symptom disorders to later onset myopathies, cardiomyopathies, movement disorders, and dementias. The bases for the genetic and phenotypic variability of mitochondrial diseases lie in the multiplicity of the mitochondria genes dispersed across the human genome and the variety of cellular pathways and functions in which the mitochondria play a central role. MRDD Research Reviews 2001;7:158–166. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Traumatic brain injury: Developmental differences in glutamate receptor response and the impact on treatment
Authors: Lea Paul M. , Faden Alan I.
Published: August 2002

Perinatal brain injury following trauma, hypoxia, and/or ischemia represents a substantial cause of pediatric disabilities including mental retardation. Such injuries lead to neuronal cell death through either necrosis or apoptosis. Numerous in vivo and in vitro studies implicate ionotropic (iGluRs) and metabotropic (mGluRs) glutamate receptors in the modulation of such cell death. Expression of glutamate receptors changes as a function of developmental age, with substantial implications for understanding mechanisms of post‐injury cell death and its potential treatment. Recent findings suggest that the developing brain is more susceptible to apoptosis after injury and that such caspase mediated cell death may be exacerbated by treatment with N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor antagonists. Moreover, group I metabotropic glutamate receptors appear to have opposite effects on necrotic and apoptotic cell death. Understanding the relative roles of glutamate receptors in post‐traumatic or post‐ischemic cell death as a function of developmental age may lead to novel targeted approaches to the treatment of pediatric brain injury. MRDD Research Reviews 2001;7:235–248. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Limitations and requirements of diffusion tensor fiber tracking: An assessment using simulations
Authors: Tournier J.‐D. , Calamante F. , King M.D. , Gadian D.G. , Connelly A.
Published: August 2002

Diffusion tensor fiber tracking potentially can give information about in vivo brain connectivity. However, this technique is difficult to validate due to the lack of a gold standard. Fiber tracking reliability will depend on the quality of the data and on the robustness of the algorithms used. Information about the effects of various anatomical and image acquisition parameters on fiber tracking reliability may be used in the design of imaging sequences and of tracking algorithms. In this study, tracking was performed on two different simulated models to study the effects on tracking quality of SNR, anisotropy, curvature, fiber cross‐section, background anisotropy, step size, and interpolation. Tracking was also performed on volunteer data to assess the relevance of the simulations to real data. Our results show that, in general, tracking with high SNR and high anisotropy using interpolation and a low step size gives the most reliable results. Partial volume effects are shown to have a detrimental effect when the background is anisotropic and when tracking narrow fibers. The results derived from real data show similar trends and thus support the findings of the simulations. These simulations may therefore help to determine which structures can be tracked for a given image quality. Magn Reson Med 47:701–708, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Real‐time cardiac cine imaging with SPIDER: Steady‐state projection imaging with dynamic echo‐train readout
Authors: Larson Andrew C. , Simonetti Orlando P.
Published: August 2002

Steady‐state projection imaging with dynamic echo‐train readout (SPIDER) is a multiecho radial k‐space trajectory TrueFISP sequence developed for real‐time cine imaging of the heart. This new pulse sequence combines the superior SNR and blood‐to‐myocardium contrast of TrueFISP with the increased scan time efficiency of EPI and undersampled projection reconstruction. SPIDER sequence RF repetition time (TR) was minimized by limiting the echo‐train to a length of three while acquiring the first and third echoes asymmetrically. A temporal resolution of 45 ms was achieved with TR/TE1/TE2/TE3 of 3.24/0.6/1.6/2.6 ms and a factor of 2 view sharing scheme. Phantom experiments showed little difference between the
weighting of the signals acquired at each of the echo times but did show considerable off‐resonance modulation between them. In vivo experiments demonstrated the feasibility of using the SPIDER sequence for real‐time imaging in the cardiac short axis orientation. Magn Reson Med 46:1059–1066, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diagnosis of dystrophinopathy by skin biopsy
Authors: Niiyama Takahito , Higuchi Itsuro , Sakoda Shunichi , Matsumura Tsuyoshi , Fukunaga Hidetoshi , Osame Mitsuhiro
Published: August 2002

We studied the expression of dystrophin in skin biopsy samples from 19 patients with neuromuscular diseases. Immunohistochemical procedures for dystrophin analyses were performed using monoclonal antibodies for three different domains. Arrector pili muscles, which are smooth muscles in the skin, expressed dystrophin in the patients with limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy (5), facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (1), and spinal muscular atrophy (3), and in normal controls (2). The C‐terminus of dystrophin was slightly expressed in the patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, whereas the rod domain and N‐terminus were absent. In one patient with Becker muscular dystrophy, the expression of dystrophin was reduced. The mosaic of dystrophin positive and negative smooth muscle fibers was observed in a manifesting carrier of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Our results suggest that skin biopsy is very useful for the diagnosis of Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy and manifesting carrier of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and can be performed even at an advanced stage of the disease. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Muscle Nerve 25: 000–000, 2002 DOI 10.1002/mus.10040
Biodegradable p(DLLA‐ϵ‐CL) nerve guides versus autologous nerve grafts: Electromyographic and video analysis
Authors: Meek Marcel F. , Van Der Werff John F.A. , Nicolai Jean‐Philipe A. , Gramsbergen Albert
Published: August 2002

The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional effects of bridging a gap in the sciatic nerve of the rat with either a biodegradable copolymer of DL‐lactide and ϵ‐caprolactone [p(DLLA‐ϵ‐CL)] nerve guide or an autologous nerve graft. Electromyograms (EMGs) of the gastrocnemius (GC) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles were recorded 3.5 and 5 months after bridging the nerve gaps. Furthermore, the rats' gait was recorded on video and the quality of the gait was analyzed. EMG patterns of the contralateral nonoperated side were essentially normal. The EMG patterns on the operated side were irregular in all animals, but the quality of gait was better in the nerve guide group. We conclude that the surgical technique (nerve guide or nerve graft) does not influence the occurrence of abnormal EMG patterns, but gait improves to a greater extent when the nerve gap is bridged by a nerve guide. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 24: 753–759, 2001
Contractile properties of human motor units in health, aging, and disease
Authors: Chan K. Ming , Doherty Timothy J. , Brown William F.
Published: August 2002

The primary function of skeletal muscle is to produce force for postural control and movement. Although the contractile properties of the whole muscle are useful functional indicators, they do not accurately reflect the heterogeneity of the constituent motor units (MUs) and their changes in health and disease. However, data on the contractile properties of human MUs, in comparison to other animal species, are relatively sparse. This, in part, is due to greater methodological challenges of in vivo studies of MUs in the human. The purpose of this review is to critically appraise the methods used in humans; to describe the normative data from different muscle groups; to discuss differences between data from healthy humans and other animal species; and, last, to characterize changes of the MU contractile properties in aging, disease, and in response to intervention. Because the spike‐triggered averaging technique can only be used to study the twitch properties, other methods were subsequently developed to measure a wider range of contractile properties. Although there is general agreement between human data and those from other animal species, major differences do exist. Potential reasons for these discrepancies include true biological differences, but differences in the techniques used may also be responsible. Although limited, measurement of MU contractile properties in humans has provided insight into the changes associated with aging and motoneuronal diseases and provides a means of gauging their adaptive capacity for training and immobilization. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 24: 1113–1133
Prospective follow‐up study of chronic polyneuropathy of undetermined cause
Authors: Jann Stefano , Beretta Sandro , Bramerio Manuela , Defanti Carlo Alberto
Published: August 2002

Forty consecutive patients with chronic sensorimotor polyneuropathy of undetermined cause were followed to determine disease progression and prognosis. They had had neurological symptoms for at least 1 year before presentation. Neurophysiological examination in all patients showed chronic axonal degeneration, which was confirmed by sural nerve biopsy. Patients were reviewed every 3 months. Laboratory tests were performed every 6 months for the first 2 years and then annually. Neurophysiological examination was performed annually in all patients. Patients were followed up for at least 4 years. In no instance was a possible etiological factor detected during follow‐up. The clinical and electrophysiological findings had a slowly progressive course. We suggest that patients with a chronic polyneuropathy of undetermined cause despite detailed investigations do not require further extensive and expensive laboratory tests and neurophysiological studies during follow‐up. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 24: 1197–1201, 2001
Solutions of pore pressure build up due to progressive waves
Authors: Cheng L. , Sumer B. M. , Fredsøe J.
Published: August 2002

The analytical solution of soil pore pressure accumulations due to a progressive wave is examined in detail. First of all, the errors contained in a published analytical solution for wave‐induced pore pressure accumulation are addressed, and the correct solution is presented in a more general form. The behaviour of the solution under different soil conditions is then investigated. It is found that the solution for deep soil conditions is sensitive to the soil shear stress in the top thin layer of the soil. However the solution is significantly influenced by the shear stress in the thin layer of soil near the impermeable base, for shallow and finite depth soil conditions. It is also found that a small error in the soil shear stress can lead to a large error in the accumulated pore pressure. An error analysis reveals the relationships between the accuracy of the pore pressure accumulation and the accuracy of the soil shear stress. A numerical solution to the simplified Biot consolidation equation is also developed. It is shown that the error analysis is of significant value for the numerical modelling of pore pressure buildup in marine soils. Both analytical and numerical examples are given to validate the error estimation method proposed in the present paper. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel UNC‐44 AO13 ankyrin is required for axonal guidance in C. elegans, contains six highly repetitive STEP blocks separated by seven potential transmembrane domains, and is localized to neuronal processes and the periphery of neural cell bodies
Authors: Otsuka Anthony J. , Boontrakulpoontawee Pratumtip , Rebeiz Natalie , Domanus Marc , Otsuka Dawn , Velamparampil Nena , Chan Sabrina , Wyngaerde Marshall Vande , Campagna Sarah , Cox Andrea
Published: August 2002

Conventional ankyrins are cortical cytoskeletal proteins that form an ankyrin‐spectrin meshwork underlying the plasma membrane. We report here the unusual structure of a novel ankyrin (AO13 ankyrin, 775,369 Da, 6994 aa, pI = 4.45) that is required for proper axonal guidance in Caenorhabditis elegans. AO13 ankyrin contains the ANK repeat and spectrin‐binding domains found in other ankyrins, but differs from all others in that the acidic carboxyl region contains six blocks of serine/threonine/glutamic acid/proline rich (STEP) repeats separated by seven hydrophobic domains. The STEP repeat blocks are composed primarily of sequences related to ETTTTTTVTREHFEPED(E/D)XnVVESEEYSASGSPVPSE (E/K)DVE(H/R)VI, and the hydrophobic domains contain sequences related to PESGEESDGEGFGSKVLGFAKK[AGMVAGGVVAAPVALAAVGA]KAAYDALKKDDDEE, which includes a potential transmembrane domain (in brackets). Recombinant protein fragments of AO13 ankyrin were used to prepare polyclonal antisera against the spectrin‐binding domain (AO271 Ab), the conventional ankyrin regulatory domain (AO280 Ab), the AO13 ankyrin STEP domain (AO346 Ab), the AO13 ankyrin STEP + hydrophobic domain (AO289 Ab), and against two carboxyl terminal domain fragments (AO263 Ab and AO327 Ab). Western blot analysis with these Ab probes demonstrated multiple protein isoforms. By immunofluorescence microscopy, the antispectrin‐binding and regulatory domain (AO271 and AO280) antibodies recognized many cell types, including neurons, and stained the junctions between cells. The AO13 ankyrin‐specific (AO289 and AO346) antibodies showed a neurally restricted pattern, staining nerve processes and the periphery of neural cell bodies. These results are consistent with a role for AO13 ankyrin in neural development. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Neurobiol 50: 333–349, 2002; DOI 10.1002/neu.10036
A Lanczos‐type algorithm for theQRfactorization of regular Cauchy matrices
Authors: Fasino Dario , Gemignani Luca
Published: August 2002

We present a fast algorithm for computing theQRfactorization of Cauchy matrices with real nodes. The algorithm works for almost any input matrix, does not require squaring the matrix, and fully exploits the displacement structure of Cauchy matrices. We prove that, if the determinant of a certain semiseparable matrix is non‐zero, a three term recurrence relation among the rows or columns of the factors exists. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new numerical algorithm for sub‐optimal control of earthquake excited linear structures
Authors: Bakioglu Mehmet , Aldemir Unal
Published: August 2002

Exact optimal classical closed–open‐loop control is not achievable for the buildings under seismic excitations since it requires the whole knowledge of earthquake in the control interval. In this study, a new numerical algorithm for the sub‐optimal solution of the optimal closed–open‐loop control is proposed based on the prediction of near‐future earthquake excitation using the Taylor series method and the Kalman filtering technique. It is shown numerically that how the solution is related to the predicted earthquake acceleration values. Simulation results show that the proposed numerical algorithm are better than the closed‐loop control and the instantaneous optimal control and proposed numerical solution will approach the exact optimal solution if the more distant future values of the earthquake excitation can be predicted more precisely. Effectiveness of the Kalman filtering technique is also confirmed by comparing the predicted and the observed time history of NS component of the 1940 El Centro earthquake. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of an optimal regularization factor in system identification with Tikhonov regularization for linear elastic continua
Authors: Park Hyun Woo , Shin Soobong , Lee Hae Sung
Published: August 2002

This paper presents a geometric mean scheme (GMS) to determine an optimal regularization factor for Tikhonov regularization technique in the system identification problems of linear elastic continua. The characteristics of non‐linear inverse problems and the role of the regularization are investigated by the singular value decomposition of a sensitivity matrix of responses. It is shown that the regularization results in a solution of a generalized average between the a priori estimates and the a posteriori solution. Based on this observation, the optimal regularization factor is defined as the geometric mean between the maximum singular value and the minimum singular value of the sensitivity matrix of responses. The validity of the GMS is demonstrated through two numerical examples with measurement errors and modelling errors. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Case Study in Implementing Emotional Intelligence Programs in Organizations
Authors: Cherniss Cary , Caplan Robert D.
Published: August 2002

Some may still scoff at the apparent “softness” of the concept of emotional intelligence. But,
way back before the term had entered the popular vocabulary, American Express Financial Advisors benefited from
recognizing the role of emotional intelligence in business success. And the story of how the organization went
about this groundbreaking work can offer a model for other early adopters of unconventional and passing
solutions. It especially illustrates the critical need for leadership commitment in major change efforts.
© 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Korean American health insurance and health services utilization¶
Authors: Ryu Hosihn , Young Wendy B. , Park Changgi
Published: August 2002

The purpose of this ethnic group study was to describe the unique pattern of Korean Americans, as compared with the aggregate of Asian Americans, for: (a) the predisposing, enabling, and need factors for health service utilization, focusing specifically on the role of health insurance coverage; and (b) predictors of health insurance coverage. Using the behavioral model for health service utilization, data were selected from the 1992 National Health Insurance Survey (NHIS, 1994) for Korean Americans (n = 345) and Asian Americans (n = 3,059). Results differed between the Korean American group and the Asian American group. Health insurance coverage was the strongest predictor of Korean American utilization, and need factors lacked significance, suggesting that uninsured Korean Americans have less access regardless of need. For the aggregate Asian American group, need factors tempered the influence of health insurance on utilization. Results of this type of study may be helpful for designing and implementing health care services tailored for specific ethnic at‐risk markets. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Res Nurs Health 24:494–505, 2001
Quality of life of elderly patients after treatment in the ICU
Authors: Kleinpell Ruth M. , Ferrans Carol E.
Published: August 2002

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of intensive care unit (ICU) treatment on quality of life (QOL) outcomes for critically ill elderly patients 4–6 months after ICU discharge. A mean overall score of 21.4 (SD=6.3) was obtained with the Quality of Life Index (Ferrans & Powers, 1985), indicating that all the ICU survivors in the sample (N=164) reported good QOL and were satisfied with areas of life that were important to them. Greater social support, better perceived health status, fewer days of hospitalization, and a hospital readmission since discharge were associated with higher QOL (R2=.51). This sample of elderly ICU survivors maintained a good QOL after their critical illness regardless of age. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 25:212–221, 2002
Patterns of dental wear in the early Maori dentition
Authors: Kieser J.A. , Dennison K.J. , Kaidonis J.A. , Huang D. , Herbison P.G.P. , Tayles N.G.
Published: August 2002

The levels of tooth wear were surveyed in 50 pre‐contact Maori skulls (23 of them female) from New Zealand. In addition to a generalized tooth wear index, we evaluated occlusal wear for erosion and abrasion. Occlusal microwear was also investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and, finally, the occlusal slope was determined at the level of the first molar teeth. The general pattern of wear was one of severe occlusal reduction with no significant differences between males and females. Both silicone impressions and SEM views confirmed a large component (30%) of erosion. While most individuals had flat wear planes, 33% of males and 44% of females showed reversed Monson's curves. Accentuated Monson's curves were found in 23.8% of males. While these results confirm early studies of the excessive wear experienced by pre‐contact Maori, our study shows for the first time that erosion played a significant role in the dental wear of these people. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An application of robust control technique to manufacturing systems with uncertain processing time
Authors: Boukas E. K. , Shi P. , Agarwal R. K.
Published: August 2002

This paper studies the inventory control problem for a production system with uncertain processing time and delay in control. First, the stabilization of the delayed system is analysed. Then, a controller is designed such that a disturbance attenuation of the system is achieved. The problem of robust control of the system with parametric uncertainty is also investigated. Linear matrix inequality approach is employed to solve the above problems. A numerical example is given to show the potential of the proposed techniques. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal and sub‐optimal control in Dengue epidemics
Authors: Caetano Marco Antonio Leonel , Yoneyama Takashi
Published: August 2002

This work concerns the application of the optimal control theory to Dengue epidemics. The dynamics of this insect‐borne disease is modelled as a set of non‐linear ordinary differential equations including the effect of educational campaigns organized to motivate the population to break the reproduction cycle of the mosquitoes by avoiding the accumulation of still water in open‐air recipients. The cost functional is such that it reflects a compromise between actual financial spending (in insecticides and educational campaigns) and the population health (which can be objectively measured in terms of, for instance, treatment costs and loss of productivity). The optimal control problem is solved numerically using a multiple shooting method. However, the optimal control policy is difficult to implement by the health authorities because it is not practical to adjust the investment rate continuously in time. Therefore, a suboptimal control policy is computed assuming, as the admissible set, only those controls which are piecewise constant. The performance achieved by the optimal control and the sub‐optimal control policies are compared with the cases of control using only insecticides when Breteau Index is greater or equal to 5 and the case of no‐control. The results show that the sub‐optimal policy yields a substantial reduction in the cost, in terms of the proposed functional, and is only slightly inferior to the optimal control policy. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Economic impacts of the tobacco settlement
Authors: Cutler David M. , Gruber Jonathan , Hartman Raymond S. , Landrum Mary Beth , Newhouse Joseph P. , Rosenthal Meredith B.
Published: August 2002

Recent litigation against the major tobacco companies culminated in a master settlement agreement
(MSA) under which the participating companies agreed to compensate most states for Medicaid expenses.
Here the terms of the settlement are outlined and its economic implications analyzed using data from
Massachusetts. The financial compensation to Massachusetts (and other states) under the MSA is
substantial. However, this compensation is dwarfed by the value of the health impacts induced by the settlement.
Specifically, Medicaid spending will fall, but only by a modest amount. More importantly, the value of health
benefits ($65 billion through 2025 in 1999 dollars) from increased longevity is an order of
magnitude greater than any other impacts or payments. The net efficiency implications of the settlement turn
mainly on a comparison of the value of these health benefits relative to a valuation of the foregone pleasure of
smoking. To the extent that the value of the health benefits is not offset by the value of the pleasure
foregone, the economic impacts of the MSA will include a share of these health benefits. © 2002 by the
Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Preparation and EIS studies on polyimide/polyaniline blend film for corrosion protection
Authors: Liangcai Lei , Ming Wu , Huoming Shu , Haiying Li , Qingdong Qiao , Yuanlong Du
Published: August 2002

A corrosion protection coating from polyimide/polyaniline (PI/PAn) blend was prepared by solution blending and the anti‐corrosion property of this coating was studied with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique. The results show that PAn can react with PI to form chemical bonds between these two polymers and these bonds keep these two polymers as a miscible system. The corrosion protection property of this coating increases with a growth in the PAn component and an excellent anti‐corrosion effect emerges when the PAn content reaches 10–15%. The reason why PAn can improve the anti‐corrosion property is that PI/PAn blend can form a dense and non‐porous polymer film that would prevent some corrupting components from access to the underlying steel surface. And also, PAn may serve as a corrosion inhibiting agent to scavenge any protons and foster a local basic surface environment. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cellular and humoral mechanisms of osteoclast formation and bone resorption in Gorham–Stout disease
Authors: Hirayama T. , Sabokbar A. , Itonaga I. , Watt‐Smith S. , Athanasou N. A.
Published: August 2002

Gorham–Stout disease (GSD) is a rare, massively osteolytic condition which is associated with increased vascularity and an increase in osteoclast numbers. To determine the cellular and humoral mechanisms underlying the increase in osteoclast numbers and osteolysis in GSD, this study analysed circulating osteoclast precursor numbers and sensitivity to osteoclastogenic factors in a GSD patient and age/sex‐matched controls. Monocytes were cultured with M‐CSF (25 ng/ml) and RANKL (30 ng/ml) and osteoclast formation was assessed in terms of the formation of TRAP+ and VNR+ multinucleated cells and the extent of lacunar resorption. There was no increase in the proportion of circulating osteoclast precursors in GSD relative to controls, but lacunar resorption was consistently greater in GSD monocyte cultures. Increased osteoclast formation in GSD was noted when monocytes were incubated with IL‐1β (1 ng/ml), IL‐6/sIL‐6R (100 ng/ml), and TNFα (10 ng/ml). An increase in osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption was also noted in control monocyte cultures in the presence of GSD serum. These results indicate that the increase in osteoclast formation in GSD is due not to an increase in the number of circulating osteoclast precursors, but rather to an increase in the sensitivity of these precursors to humoral factors which promote osteoclast formation and bone resorption. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phytoecdysteroid profiles in seeds of Sida spp. (Malvaceae)
Authors: Dinan Laurence , Bourne Pauline , Whiting Pensri
Published: August 2002

Procedures are presented for the assessment of the phytoecdysteroid profiles in small plant samples (ca. 25 mg), using seeds of Sida spp. as an example. The procedures are suitable for the analysis of minute or valuable samples and provide copious information for chemotaxonomic purposes. Methanolic extracts of the plant material, after partioning against hexane, were separated by reversed‐phase gradient HPLC monitored by PAD, RIA and bioassay. Aliquots of the fractions were also treated with Helix pomatia hydrolases, followed by RIA and bioassay, in order to assess the presence of hydrolysable ecdysteroid conjugates. Further information could also be obtained by separation of samples using normal‐phase gradient HPLC. Among 11 species of Sida examined, seed extracts of S. acuta (=S.carpinifolia) and S. rhombifolia were found to contain significant amounts of ecdysteroids, seed extracts of S. filicaulis contained only moderate levels, whilst the remaining species showed no detectable levels of ecdysteroids. The ecdysteroid profiles of the extracts of the three positive species were significantly different, demonstrating that phytoecdysteroids have chemotaxonomic value in this genus. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
HPLC‐UV and HPLC‐positive‐ESI‐MS analysis of the diterpenoid fraction from caper spurge  (Euphorbia lathyris) seed oil
Authors: Bicchi Carlo , Appendino Giovanni , Cordero Chiara , Rubiolo Patrizia , Ortelli Didier , Veuthey Jean‐Luc
Published: August 2002

Caper spurge (Euphorbia lathyris L.) seed oil contains a series of diterpenoids known as Euphorbia factors, or L‐factors, L1–L9. They are esters of several polyols (lathyrol, epoxylathyrol, hydroxylathyrol and ingenol) and account for about 3–5% of the oil. The percentage of ingenol‐based L‐factors is very low, less than 5% of the diterpenoid fraction, but some of them (factors L5 and L6) are responsible for the irritant and co‐carcinogenic activities of the oil. This paper reports an HPLC‐UV and HPLC‐positive‐ESI‐MS analysis of the diterpenoid fraction of caper spurge seed oil before and after selective hydrolysis of ingenol‐based L‐factors. Separation of lathyrane polyols and esters, and ingenol and its esters was achieved using a chromatographic system consisting of a C18 stationary phase and acetonitrile:water as mobile phase. A new macrocyclic constituent, the deoxy Euphorbia factor L1, was identified in the oil. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal diagnosis of long QT syndrome using magnetocardiography: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hosono Takayoshi , Kawamata Kazuya , Chiba Yoshihide , Kandori Akihiko , Tsukada Keiji
Published: August 2002

Objectives

To investigate the usefulness of magnetocardiography (MCG) in the prenatal diagnosis of fetal long QT syndrome.

Methods

Fetal MCG was recorded in a case of fetal long QT syndrome suspected in utero. The literature on the prenatal diagnosis of fetal long QT syndrome was also reviewed.

Results

The MCG was performed at 36 weeks' gestation because sustained fetal bradycardia of 110–120 bpm was detected by cardiotocography. The 64‐channel MCG revealed a prolonged fetal corrected QT‐interval of 0.57 s. The postnatal electrocardiogram coincided with prenatal MCG.

Conclusion

An accumulation of cases of prenatally diagnosed long QT syndrome using MCG indicates that MCG may be the most reliable tool for the prenatal diagnosis of long QT syndrome. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intrauterine left chamber myocardial infarction of the heart and hydrops fetalis in the recipient fetus due to twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Marton Tamás , Hajdú Júlia , Hruby Ervin , Papp Zoltán
Published: August 2002

A rare complication of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) is described: myocardial infarction of the recipient fetus. Myocardial infarction and hydrops are considered to be consequences of hypertension in the recipient. No other organs were affected. Pathological signs of intrauterine hypertension were estimated by the thickness of vessel walls and signs of hypertrophied myocardial cells. In the heart of the recipient fetus there was a chronic myocardial infarction near the apex cordis on the anterior wall with an aneurysm 4×5 mm in diameter. Diagnosis was based on light microscopic examination. The poor myocardial systolic function resulted in hydrops. Since the mother was administered β sympathomimetics in therapeutic doses the contribution of the drug to the myocardial infarction is uncertain, but we would like to suggest this as a possible adverse effect in TTTS.

The present case is the first reported myocardial infarction in connection with the syndrome. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An umbilical cord teratoma in a 17‐week‐old fetus
Authors: Satgé Daniel C. L. , Laumond Marie‐Annick , Desfarges François , Chenard Marie‐Pierre R.
Published: August 2002

A therapeutic abortion was conducted on a 17‐week‐old male fetus with a large umbilical cord teratoma associated with an exomphalos. A review of the literature revealed ten other cases of umbilical cord teratoma and shows that these tumors have a very polymorphic presentation. Four fetuses and infants died from various causes indicating that there is a need for close follow‐up of pregnancies with umbilical cord teratoma. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The multiple propensity score for analysis of dose–response relationships in drug safety studies
Authors: Wang Jixian , Donnan Peter T. , Steinke Douglas , MacDonald Thomas M.
Published: August 2002

In order to detect adverse drug reactions, large observational drug safety studies are necessary as randomized clinical trials rarely have enough power. However, in order to obtain reliable results the issue of confounding, especially confounding by indication, should be addressed. We proposed a multiple propensity score, which is an extension of the propensity score, to reduce the bias in a dose–response analysis in a drug safety study. The multiple propensity score has similar properties to the propensity score in Rosenbaum and Rubin.1Using the propensity score for bias reduction of the risk ratio was considered. We used the multiple propensity score in a study of the dose–response relationship between diclofenac prescriptions and hospitalization for gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation using a record linkage database. We found that the unadjusted risk ratios were biased downwards due to confounders and that this bias was reduced by using stratification based on the multiple propensity score. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of surrogate endpoints in clinical trials: focus on clinical trials in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Lonn Eva
Published: August 2002

Surrogate endpoints include a wide range of laboratory or physical measurements used in clinical trials as a substitute for meaningful clinical endpoints that directly assess effects of the intervention(s) tested on mortality and/or morbidity. These surrogate endpoints are frequently employed in clinical trials and when used judiciously, can accelerate and focus the study of new therapies and can greatly enhance our understanding of their mechanisms of action. The current review provides a definition of surrogate endpoints, proposes practical criteria for establishing their validity, outlines some of the advantages, disadvantages and specific statistical considerations associated with their use in clinical trials and attempts also to highlight drug approval issues associated with the use of these endpoints. A number of examples are also provided related to the use of surrogate endpoints in clinical trials with special emphasis on their use in cardiovascular medicine. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrolyte diffusion in a chitosan membrane
Authors: Vasconcelos C L de , Rocha A N L , Pereira M R , Fonseca J L C
Published: August 2002

Chitosan membranes were manufactured and used in the study of diffusion of aqueous potassium chloride solution. Diffusion was found to be outside the Fickian regime, this deviation being correlated with possible changes in the membrane structure during the experiments as well as to the occurrence of osmosis.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Part 14. Synthesis and properties of new polyketoamine polymers containing cycloalkanone moieties in the main chain
Authors: Aly Kamal I , Abbady Mahmoud A , Mahgoub Safaa A , Hussein Mahmoud A
Published: August 2002

A new interesting class of polyketoamine polymers based on diarylidenecycloalkanone were synthesized by suspension polycondensation. These polymers were synthesized via polymerization of 2,5‐bis(4‐chloroacetylbenzylidene)cyclopentanone and 2,6‐bis(4‐chloroacetylbenzylidene)cyclohexanone with different aliphatic and aromatic diamines including, p‐phenylenediamine, m‐phenylenediamine, o‐phenylenediamine, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylether, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylsulfone, hydrazine hydrate, 1,2‐diaminoethane, 1,3‐diaminopropane and 1,8‐diaminooctane.

Model compounds were prepared by condensation of 2,5‐bis(4‐chloroacetylbenzylidene)cyclopentanone and/or 2,6‐bis(4‐chloroacetylbenzylidene)cyclohexanone with aniline in dry benzene, and their structure was confirmed by elemental analysis and spectroscopy. The structure of the polymers obtained was also confirmed by the same methods. Moreover, the identification of the polymers was carried out by other techniques, eg crystallinity from X‐ray spectroscopy, viscosimetry, thermogravimetric analysis; the morphological properties of selected examples were tested by scanning electron microscopy. The electrical conductivity of selected examples is about 10−12 ohm cm−1. The results are in accord with the structure.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry