bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Syntactic Study of Control in Restrictive Settings: Innovations in Isovist Methods
Authors: Peatross Frieda D
Published: July 2006

Space syntax techniques, with some methodological innovations involving the use of isovists, are used to explore the spatial dimensions of control in restrictive environments as exemplified by three Alzheimer's units and three juvenile detention centers in the United States. The aim is to identify the spatial and visual properties of buildings that have implications, either directly or through their effect on patterns of space use, relevant to the aims of normalizing behaviors while still maintaining control. Spatial configuration, and more conclusively the views from spaces, are critical factors influencing the probabilistic spatial patterning of movement and, through this, of interaction. In this paper I expand on some new isovist/viewshed measures that make possible a fuller description of space, particularly significant to environments where a margin of awareness may contribute to a more normalized life.
“So Go Downtown”: Simulating Pedestrian Movement in Town Centres
Authors: Haklay Mordechai , O'Sullivan David , Thurstain-Goodwin Mark , Schelhorn Thorsten
Published: July 2006

Pedestrian movement models have been developed since the 1970s. A review of the literature shows that such models have been developed to explain and predict macro, meso, and micro movement patterns. However, recent developments in modelling techniques, and especially advances in agent-based simulation, open up the possibility of developing integrative and complex models which use existing models as ‘building blocks’. In this paper we describe such integrative, modular approach to simulating pedestrian movement behaviour. The STREETS model, developed by using Swarm and GIS, is an agent-based model that focuses on the simulation of the behavioural aspects of pedestrian movement. The modular structure of the simulation is described in detail. This is followed by a discussion of the lessons learned from the development of STREETS, especially the advantages of adopting a modular approach and other aspects of using the agent-based paradigm for modelling.
Scenarios of Future Urban Land Use in Europe
Authors: Reginster Isabelle , Rounsevell Mark
Published: July 2006

The objective of this paper is to present the development of quantitative, spatially explicit, and alternative scenarios of future urban land use in Europe. The scenario-construction methodology is based on three steps: (1) an interpretation of four global-scale storylines describing in qualitative terms alternative urban-development pathways, (2) the development and application of a simple statistical model to estimate the future demand for urban land, and (3) the development of rules to allocate this urban demand geographically through the consideration of land-use planning goals. The qualitative part of the analysis is based on an interpretation of the four storylines of the Special Report on Emission Scenarios by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. This interpretation describes the principal driving forces that are specific to the European region and to the urban sector on the basis of the theoretical principles of urban economy. The urban-demand model includes two driving forces: (a) the population, representing demographic trends and the demand for housing; and (b) the gross domestic product, reflecting the economic level and dynamism. A further three variables are used as drivers of spatial patterns: (c) accessibility to the transport network; (d) the degree of restriction arising from land-use planning policy, and (e) the relative attractiveness (in terms of residential-location choice) of small, medium, and large cities. Thus, the urban-land-use change model is based on a multilevel analysis, which integrates theory and empirical evidence. The results are original urban-land-use maps of Europe for each of the four scenarios on the basis of a 10′ (latitude and longitude) geographic grid. The comparison of these alternative views of the future and the transparency of the development of these views provide a rich and consistent method for understanding the relationships between driving forces, their intensity, and their consequence for geographic space. Scenario analysis is a useful tool to test incentives, measures, or planning regulations according to different policy objectives.
What Makes Plan Implementation Successful? An Evaluation of Local Plans and Implementation Practices in New Zealand
Authors: Berke Philip , Backhurst Michael , Day Maxine , Ericksen Neil , Laurian Lucie , Crawford Jan , Dixon Jennifer
Published: July 2006

Failure to implement plans has long been considered a significant barrier to effective planning. We examine two conceptions of success in plan implementation (conformance and performance), the effects of the implementation practices of planning agencies, and the capacity of agencies and permit applicants to bring about success. A key lesson from our New-Zealand-based evaluation is that implementation is somewhat weak. Another key point is that, if implementation is defined and measured in terms of conformance, plans and planners have an important influence on implementation success. Alternatively, if implementation is defined and measured in terms of performance, plans and planners are less influential in implementation. These lessons have broad implications for the theory and practice of plan implementation.
Phylogenetic relationship of potato CAT1 and CAT2 genes, their differential expression in non-photosynthetic organs and during leaf development, and their association with different cellular processes
Authors: Santos Isabel , Pires Helena , Almeida José M. , Fidalgo Fernanda , Confraria Ana , Duarte Márcia , Borlido Júlio , Salema Roberto
Published: July 2006

Plants contain multiple forms of catalase (CAT) and their specific functions remain uncertain. We cloned two potato cDNAs corresponding to CAT1 and CAT2 genes, analysed their phylogenetic relationship, and studied their expression and activity in different organs to gain clues to their functions. Phylogenetic trees and the alignment of CAT cDNA sequences provided evidence that CAT1 and CAT2 genes have high identity to catalases of other solanaceous species, but are not phylogenetically closely related to one another, which contradicts the phylogenetic closeness ascribed to these genes. Northern blot analyses revealed that expression of CAT genes is controlled by leaf developmental phase. CAT2 expression was higher in both very young and senescent leaves, whereas CAT1 mRNA accumulated mainly in mature leaf, where the lowest CAT2 expression occurred. CAT1 and CAT2 are also differentially expressed in root, sprout and petal. Expression and activity patterns are consistent with different physiological roles for CAT1 and CAT2 isoforms. CAT1 is considered to be associated with photorespiration whereas CAT2 would fulfill physiological roles unrelated to this process. CAT2 appears to be a multifunctional isoform, associated with glyoxysomal activity in leaf senescence, other processes in non-photosynthetic organs and defence, functions that in other solanaceous species are fulfilled by two different isoforms.
Cryptochrome 2 is involved in betacyanin decomposition induced by blue light in Suaeda salsa
Authors: Chang-Quan Wang , Tao Liu
Published: July 2006

Seeds of the halophyte Suaeda salsa (L.) Pall. were cultured in 24 h dark and 14 h blue light / 10 h dark to examine the role of blue light and the blue-light-absorbing photoreceptor cryptochrome 2 (CRY2) in betacyanin accumulation, hypocotyl elongation and cotyledon opening in S. salsa seedlings. Darkness significantly promoted betacyanin accumulation and hypocotyl elongation but inhibited cotyledon opening. Blue light suppressed betacyanin accumulation and hypocotyl elongation but stimulated cotyledon opening. Betacyanin in S. salsa seedlings decomposed with time in blue light. Western blot analysis showed that CRY2 protein accumulated both in hypocotyls and cotyledons of S. salsa seedlings grown in dark, but degraded with time in blue light, which was paralleled by a decrease of tyrosine hydroxylation activity of tyrosinase, a key enzyme involved in the betalain biosynthesis pathway. These results suggest that CRY2 protein mediates betacyanin decomposition via inactivation of tyrosinase in S. salsa seedlings, and the blue-light-dependent degradation of CRY2 protein is crucial to its function.
Frustration, strain and commitment to community policing: a comparative analysis of American and English police officers
Authors: Yates Donald L. , Pillai Vijayan K. , Humburg Joel D.
Published: July 2006

Compares police officer attitudes in Forth Worth, Texas with those of Northumbria, UK. Finds that both groups have remarkably similar experiences with frustration, strain and commitment to community policing (CP). Shows rank as an important predictor of frustration but not of strain, although in Northumbria administrators are slightly more strained than constables. Both groups of administrators exhibit lower frustration and also a higher commitment to CP than the ranks beneath them. Infers from this a need to win patrol officers over to CP and to investigate the problems surrounding CP.
Community‐oriented policing in Virginia
Authors: Taylor Greene Helen
Published: July 2006

This study examines community policing in Virginia. The methodology included (1) a telephone survey to identify programs and (2) questionnaires mailed to police agencies with community policing, and serving populations over 100,000. Information was collected to examine community policing, and departmental influence on both program strategies and community involvement. The nine programs identified had varying strategies, features, and activities. Most reported permanent assignment of officers in neighbourhoods, problem solving, and foot patrol. Neighbourhood substations were less common. Although not significant, a correlation was found between departmental commitment to community policing and community involvement. Policy implications of the study are also presented.
The intelligent analyst as social scientist: a comparison of research methods
Authors: Prunckun Henry W.
Published: July 2006

A study which explores the relationship between law enforcement intelligence and social research. The author argues that because law enforcement intelligence draws heavily upon the use of research methodologies, analysts employed in the field can benefit from the knowledge and skills of social scientists. The study compares some of the most frequently used qualitative data collection methods and analytic techniques employed by intelligence analysts with those of the social scientist. The study concludes that providing tertiary education in social research methods for law enforcement intelligence personnel, or alternatively, recruiting social scientists as analysts would be most beneficial, and points to similar positive situations experienced by the CIA in its exchange program with various universities.
Housing the Urban Poor in Developing Countries
Authors: Rondinelli Dennis A.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Conventional Shelter policies that focus on slum clearance, public housing, sites‐and‐Services, upgrading of core dwellings and government assisted self‐help are inadequate to meet the growing needs of the urban poor in developing countries for low‐cost housing. An examination is made of alternative options including cooperative housing programs and of policies that lower housing construction costs and encourage the participation of the urban poor, the informal sector, and private enterprise in low‐cost shelter construction. Such policies include those that modify land use and building regulations, that increase the incomes of the poor so that they can afford privately constructed dwellings or the materials to build their own houses, and that increase the security of land occupation to encourage self‐help activities. Governments in developing countries must give more attention to tailoring housing policies to the needs of the urban poor, to developing multiple modes of shelter provision, and to strengthening the housing finance system.
Substitution Bias and Cost of Living Variability for U.S. Demographic Groups:
Authors: Cobb Steven A.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Intertemporal cost of living variability is analyzed for households with differing income levels and family characteristics. These indexes are based upon the parameter estimates of a comprehensive system of expenditure equations, the quadratic expenditure system. Despite considerable differences in the group‐specific share parameters as well as nonlinearities in the Engle curves for each group, little variation occurs in these indexes for several U.S. price series over the 1967–1984 time period. As a result, we find little evidence that group‐specific fixed weight indexes are better cost of living approximations than a general Consumer Price Index even though all substitution bias estimates, by income and household type, are quite small.
Catastrophe Theory: Implications for Probability
Authors: Murphy John W
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT The work of Rene Thom relating to catastrophe theory has influenced probability theory Since so much of the research conducted by social scientists depends on calculating the probability that events will occur, an introduction to catastrophe theory is needed By discussing the social implications of the position outlined by Thom, social scientists will better understand the difficulties associated with generating probability statements
Union Influence and Right‐to‐Work Law Passage
Authors: Mixon Franklin G. , Ressler Rand W.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Urban and labor economists have examined macro and micro effects of the passage of right‐to‐work laws in various states. These laws prohibit unions from negotiating bargains that require new and previous hires to join the union. The results have been suggestive, pointing out that cost‐of‐living indices are dramatically influenced by the presence of unionized workers.

This analysis describes the economic and political evolution necessary for the legal passage of right to‐work laws. Although individual studies have pointed out that a low degree of unionization is necessary for the passage of such laws, no study has attempted to describe the timing of the decline in unionization rates as it relates to the passage of these laws. To test this thesis, a discrete‐time or hazard model is employed. Evidence suggests that a low threshold of union activity must be reached before an individual state will adopt such labor laws. Also important in the analysis is the degree of construction and manufacturing within each state, as well as public choice determinants of legislative activity such as the role of the Democratic Party. The discrete‐time model suggests that a declining union membership is important in determining the “timing” of the adoption of right‐to‐work laws by states, as well as the actual adoption of these laws by states.
Income Distribution in the Third World: Its Estimation Via Proxy Data
Authors: Saltz Ira S.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. A two‐Stage least squares estimate of the distribution of income in the Third World is derived in this paper using the per capita ownership of cars, infant mortality rates, and the average daily caloric requirement along with the per capita Gross Domestic Product. Previous work by Kitznets 1955 had established a relationship between the distribution of income and GDP/CAP, but with the inclusion of the three additional “proxy” variables, the distribution of income is estimated with a great deal more precision. For example, the R‐squared for the estimate of the share of income earned by the poorest 20% of households increases from 0.30 to 0.68 by incorporating the proxy variables.

Using the parameters estimated via two‐stage least squares on a set of 23 countries for which the distribution of income Is known, the paper then estimates the distribution of income for a set of 43 countries for which this data is unknown. The results indicate that countries like Singapore and Sri Lanka have relatively even distributions of income for their stage of development, and countries like Brazil, Kenya, Bolivia, and Gautemala have highly skewed distributions of income for their level of GDP/CAP.
Time on Welfare
Authors: Leahy Peter J. , Buss Terry F. , Quane James M.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Long‐term welfare participation by women is examined using data from Akron, Ohio. Age at entry to welfare, previous work experience, and number of children are the best predictors of long‐term welfare use. Race and education are not statistically significant. Changes in family structure are the major reason why women enter welfare. But labor market reasons predortant for married couples. Labor market reasons are the most important reason why women leave the welfare system. For “high risk” women, welfare is less a safety net than a dependency trap. Public policy should focus on pregnancy among high‐risk teens.
Procrastination, Obedince, and Public Policy: The Irrelevance of Salience
Authors: Anderson Gary M. , Block Walter
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Modern economics assumes that individuals are rational maximizers, who, in the presence of costly information, sometimes make mistakes. Recently, George Akerlof has challenged this presumption. He proposes that people sometimes fail to maximize their long‐run utility, due to the phenomenon of “salience.” This refers to the alleged systematic distortion in individual perception where events closer to a person (in time and in space) seem bigger and more important than they really are. The salience phenomenon is claimed to interfere with the process of rational maximization, rendering some individual choices, in effect, irrational. This paper subjects Akerlof's suggestion to critical scrutiny. It is argued that the examples Akerlof offers of the effect of salience are not the anomalies he claims but instead represent behaviors which can be readily explained within the framework of the standard economic model. All of his major examples are considered in this light and it is suggested that the work of Israel Kirzner holds more promise for improving the analytical power of the standard economic model than does the idea of salience.
The Policy World‐Jurisprudence as a Policy Science
Authors: Montgomery John D.
Published: July 2006

Abstract

The Yale tradition of policy sciences offers a comprehensive taxonomy of human behavior, especially that which is associated with purposive institutional actions. Like newer schools of thought such as Public Choice, it has a theoretical base; like the Public Policy tradition, it focuses on historical explanations and analyses. Its categories of analysis range from Lasswell's famous eight value arenas to the seven policy functions that ate often used in identifying stages or phases of public action. Its professional breadth incorporates methods from economics, psychology, moral philosophy, and sociology, all in the context of policy behavior. The two volumes under review recapitulate theoretical and behavioral research dating back to the 1920s and still continuing at Yale and other policy centers. There is a strong moral commitment in these pages to human dignity, defined as the preferred outcomes among all competing and complementary basic values. The jurisprudence espoused in these volumes is a process through which people seek to clarify and secure their common interest; it is a tool of discovery rather than a mere syntactical philosophy of law. It is more a “political” than a “legal” science.
The Academic Coverage of Business Ethics: Does Economics Measure Up?
Authors: Hoaas David J. , Wilcox Don C.
Published: July 2006

Abstract Economics and business classes are closely related and, in most colleges and universities, included in the business core curriculum. Courses in ethics and the social responsibility of business, if not required, are increasingly recommended to business students. The authors argue that: (1) a discussion of ethical issues is lacking in economics core courses while core courses in management and marketing contain extensive coverage of the topic and (2) this topic should be integrated into the core courses of all business‐related disciplines. In economics texts, problems of efficiency are seen as manageable and uncontroversial while problems of ethics and equity are seen as controversial and theoretically intractable. Using survey data from the top selling texts in the principles of economics, intermediate microeconomics, the principles of marketing, and the principles of management, the authors show the disparity in the presentation of ethical issues between the disciplines of business and economics.
A Fragile Alliance
Authors: Weir Robert E.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Between 1885 and 1888, workers and reformers so thoroughly challenged the Gilded Age status quo that scholars have dubbed the period “The Great Upheaval.” Resurgent unionism coincided with expanded political consciousness, phenomena encapsulated in the growth of the Knights of Labor and in Henry George's bid to become mayor of New York City. Academics would do well to exercise caution, however. Gilded Age political alliances could be fragile. Disputes over land policy, tariff protection, partisan politics, anarchism, and religion drove as many Knights of Labor away from Henry George as to his cause. The “Great Upheaval” was more the ideal than reality.
Harry Gunnison Brown's Advocacy
Authors: Ryan Christopher K.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. Harry Gunnison Brown's fifty plus years of active advocacy of land value taxation are reviewed in the light of two recent articles. One indicates a waning interest and even understanding of Brown's chosen cause while the other demonstrates quite the opposite: the persistence and relevance of land value taxation. Brown's strategies are examined, drawing on his correspondence as well as his publications. It is suggested that evaluation of Brown's success or failure is a moot question in the sense that there was no one with whom to compare him.
Organization and Distributional Equality in a Network of Communes: The Shakers
Authors: Coşgel Metin M. , Miceli Thomas J. , Murray John E.
Published: July 2006

Abstract A distinctive feature of the Shaker organization of communes was to divide each commune into economically independent subdivisions called “Families.” Although the sharing of wealth and egalitarian distribution of output were integral aspects of Shaker religious practice, the organization of their communes based on the Family system led to inequalities among Families. The data from the 1850, 1860, and 1870 US Census enumeration schedules show that income and wealth per capita differed substantially across Shaker communities and even among Families within the same community. One large commune for all Shakers could have avoided distributional inequalities, but the costs of motivation and coordination would have risen with group size. The Family system was a compromise that balanced communal ideals with these costs.
Henry George:
Authors: Borcherding Thomas E. , Dillon Patricia , Willett Thomas D.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT While generally known today for his famous proposal for a Single Tax, Henry George has not been widely recognized as one of the first economists to write about the possibility of political market failure. Based on his appreciation for the allocational efficiency of markets and his suspicion of government intervention, George was an early advocate of public choice ideas who repeatedly warned of the dangers of rent seeking.
Railroads and Capital
Authors: Buck Robert Enoch
Published: July 2006

Abstract The industrialization of shoemaking occurred in small towns in antebellum New England in which capital formation was severely hampered by currency and credit problems prior to the Legal Tender Act of 1862. In a comparison of two communities, it was discovered that the construction of a railroad had different results depending on the structural ties between the community and the railroad. In one community, the railroad drew external capital to the community that provided the basis for a crucial expansion of scale of shoe production prior to the rise of the factory system. In the other, it depleted local capital, ending the shoe industry and damaging most other local economic activities as well.
Introduction to Applied Ontology
Authors: Koepsell David R.
Published: July 2006

Abstract. The effort to categorize nature dates at least to Aristotle and is still ongoing. The study of categories is termed “ontology”–a field whose use in the philosophy of social science has most recently been revived. Last April 1998, the State University of New York at Buffalo hosted a conference on “Applied Ontology: A Marvin Farber Conference on Law and Institutions in Society.” The following papers were selected from the group of papers presented at the conference.
Using Occupational Preference in Estimating Market Wage Discrimination: the Case of the Gender Pay Gap
Authors: Solberg Eric J.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT Past occupational preference is used to estimate the gender pay gap. The use of predetermined variables in a reduced‐form wage equation avoids the bias caused by using variables that are correlated with the random error. Using a gender coefficient, the potential discriminatory gap is about 11.5 percent when past occupational preference is included. Decomposition yields an estimate of 10.5 percent when past occupational preference is included. In both cases, the discriminatory gap is close to that obtained when actual occupation is included. This suggests public policy directed toward reducing hiring discrimination by gender might be misdirected.
The Effectiveness of Gun Control Laws:
Authors: Kahane Leo H.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT In the July, 1998 issue of The American Journal of Economics and Sociology Professor Tomislav V. Kovandzic strongly criticized the 1997 work on gun control by Kwon, Scott, Safranski and Bae, which appears in the same journal. A rejoinder by Kwon et al. refuted Kovnanzic's criticisms and the authors stand by their published results. The purpose of this comment is to reconsider some of the points raised by Kovandzic and to consider other issues not raised in the original exchange. The bottom line is that several of the criticisms by Kovandzic are valid and, in fact, other serious econometric problems may plague the original paper by Kwon et al.
The Economics of the Criminal Behavior of Young Adults
Authors: Gius Mark
Published: July 2006

Abstract This study uses a combination of individual‐level and county‐level data to estimate an economic model of crime for young adults similar to that used by Becker (1968) and Trumbull (1989). In order to estimate a model of crime in which both individual‐level and county‐level data are used, it is necessary to take account of the bias introduced by using aggregate‐level data in conjunction with individual‐level data. In order to eliminate this bias, a technique derived by Moulton (1990) is employed. Results from a logit regression model indicate that race, sex. and peer pressure have statistically significant effects on the probability that a young adult will commit a crime. Results also suggest that police presence, as measured by county‐level per capita police expenditures, does not deter young adults from committing crimes.
Money and its Economic and Social Functions: Simmel and European Monetary Integration
Authors: Backhaus Jürgen G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract This essay tries to put Georg Simmels The Philosophy of Money into the context of current monetary discussions in economics. Part I looks at the contribution of Georg Simmel in context and offers remarks about the changing structure of economics as a discipline composed of many different subdisciplines. It is argued that Simmel is able to transcend subdisciplinary borders, to great benefit for today's scholar. Part III explains Heinsohn and Steiger's recent contribution to monetary economics in terms of transactions and property rights; although the contribution has been made more in the context of post‐Keynesian economics, this is the only way to comprehend and integrate it into the mainstream of scholarly discourse. This examination shows that Simmels approach, transgressing interdisciplinary borders, has merits even today. Part IV looks at the perplexing phenomenon of European monetary integration with a similar interdisciplinary perspective in mind. In this case, it is not monetary economics but constitutional political economy which is the unifying concept to explain the peculiar features of European monetary integration.
PM-20, a novel inhibitor of Cdc25A, induces extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation and inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Kar Siddhartha , Wang Meifang , Yao Wei , Michejda Christopher J. , Carr Brian I.
Published: July 2006

We have synthesized several new phenyl maleimide compounds, which are potent growth inhibitors of several human tumor cell lines. Among these, PM-20 was the most potent with an IC50 of 700 nmol/L for Hep3B human hepatoma cell growth. Two other derivatives, PM-26 and PM-38, did not inhibit Hep3B cell growth even at 100 μmol/L. Interestingly, under identical experimental conditions, PM-20 inhibited DNA synthesis of primary cultures of normal hepatocytes at a 10-fold higher concentration than that needed to inhibit the DNA synthesis of the Hep3B hepatoma cells. PM-20 affected two cellular signaling pathways in Hep3B cells: Cdc25 phosphatase and extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2. It competitively inhibited the activity of Cdc25 (preferentially Cdc25A) by binding to the active site, likely through the catalytic cysteine, but did not inhibit PTP1B, CD45, or MKP-1 phosphatases. As a result of its action, tyrosine phosphorylation of the cellular Cdc25A substrates Cdk2 and Cdk4 was induced. It also induced strong and persistent phosphorylation of the Cdc25A substrate ERK1/2. Hep3B cell lysates were found to contain ERK2 phosphatase(s) activity, which was inhibited by the actions of PM-20. However, activity of exogenous dual-specificity ERK2 phosphatase MKP1 was not inhibited. Induction of ERK1/2 phosphorylation correlated with the potency of growth inhibition in tumor cell lines and inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation by the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/ERK kinase 1/2 inhibitor U0126 or overexpression of the cdc25A gene in Hep3B cells antagonized the growth inhibitory actions of PM-20. Growth of transplantable rat hepatoma cells in vivo was also inhibited by PM-20 action with a concomitant induction of pERK in the tumors. The mechanism(s) of growth inhibition of Hep3B hepatoma cells by the phenyl maleimide PM-20 involves prolonged ERK1/2 phosphorylation, likely resulting from inhibition of the ERK phosphatase Cdc25A. PM-20 thus represents a novel class of tumor growth inhibitor that inhibits mainly Cdc25A, is dependent on ERK activation, and has a considerable margin of selectivity for tumor cells compared with normal cells. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(6):1511–9]
Suicide cancer gene therapy using pore-forming toxin, streptolysin O
Authors: Yang Wan Seok , Park Sue-O , Yoon A-Rum , Yoo Ji Young , Kim Min Kyung , Yun Chae-Ok , Kim Chul-Woo
Published: July 2006

We cloned the streptolysin O gene from the Streptococcus pyogenes genome and tested the possibility of using it as an anticancer reagent. Transient transfection of the streptolysin O gene efficiently killed 293T cells after 12 hours of transfection as determined by lactate dehydrogenase release and propidium iodide uptake. No caspase activity was observed and necrosis was prominent during streptolysin O-induced cell death. Biochemical analysis of streptolysin O protein revealed that the deletion of only 5 amino acids from the COOH-terminal region of streptolysin O, which is essential for cholesterol binding activity, abolished its cell-killing activity, whereas the NH2-terminal region was more resilient, i.e., up to 115 amino acids could be deleted without changing its cell-killing activity. We generated a streptolysin O-expressing adenovirus and injected it into human cervical cancer cell–derived tumors grown in a nude mouse model. Twenty-one days postinjection, the average size of tumors in the streptolysin O adenovirus–injected group was 29.3% of that of the control PBS-treated group. Our results show that the genes of pore-forming toxins, like streptolysin O protein, have the potential to establish a novel class of suicide gene therapeutic reagents. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(6):1610-9]
Inhibition of Akt by the alkylphospholipid perifosine does not enhance the radiosensitivity of human glioma cells
Authors: de la Peña Lorena , Burgan William E. , Carter Donna J. , Hollingshead Melinda G. , Satyamitra Merriline , Camphausen Kevin , Tofilon Philip J.
Published: July 2006

Akt has been implicated as a molecular determinant of cellular radiosensitivity. Because it is often constitutively activated or overexpressed in malignant gliomas, it has been suggested as a target for brain tumor radiosensitization. To evaluate the role of Akt in glioma radioresponse, we have determined the effects of perifosine, a clinically relevant alkylphospholipid that inhibits Akt activation, on the radiosensitivity of three human glioma cell lines (U87, U251, and LN229). Each of the glioma cell lines expressed clearly detectable levels of phosphorylated Akt indicative of constitutive Akt activity. Exposure to a perifosine concentration that reduced survival by ∼50% significantly reduced the level of phosphorylated Akt as well as Akt activity. Cell survival analysis using a clonogenic assay, however, revealed that this Akt-inhibiting perifosine treatment did not enhance the radiosensitivity of the glioma cell lines. This evaluation was then extended to an in vivo model using U251 xenografts. Perifosine delivered to mice bearing U251 xenografts substantially reduced tumor phosphorylated Akt levels and inhibited tumor growth rate. However, the combination of perifosine and radiation resulted in a less than additive increase in tumor growth delay. Thus, in vitro and in vivo data indicate that the perifosine-mediated decrease in Akt activity does not enhance the radiosensitivity of three genetically disparate glioma cell lines. These results suggest that, although Akt may influence the radiosensitivity of other tumor types, it does not seem to be a target for glioma cell radiosensitization. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(6):1504–10]
Cost-Effectiveness of Defibrillator Therapy or Amiodarone in Chronic Stable Heart Failure
Authors: Mark Daniel B. , Nelson Charlotte L. , Anstrom Kevin J. , Al-Khatib Sana M. , Tsiatis Anastasios A. , Cowper Patricia A. , Clapp-Channing Nancy E. , Davidson-Ray Linda , Poole Jeanne E. , Johnson George , Anderson Jill , Lee Kerry L. , Bardy Gust H.
Published: July 2006

Background—

In the Sudden Cardiac Death in Heart Failure Trial (SCD-HeFT), implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy significantly reduced all-cause mortality rates compared with medical therapy alone in patients with stable, moderately symptomatic heart failure, whereas amiodarone had no benefit on mortality rates. We examined long-term economic implications of these results.

Methods and Results—

Medical costs were estimated by using hospital billing data and the Medicare Fee Schedule. Our base case cost-effectiveness analysis used empirical clinical and cost data to estimate the lifetime incremental cost of saving an extra life-year with ICD therapy relative to medical therapy alone. At 5 years, the amiodarone arm had a survival rate equivalent to that of the placebo arm and higher costs than the placebo arm. For ICD relative to medical therapy alone, the base case lifetime cost-effectiveness and cost-utility ratios (discounted at 3%) were $38 389 per life-year saved (LYS) and $41 530 per quality-adjusted LYS, respectively. A cost-effectiveness ratio <$100 000 was obtained in 99% of 1000 bootstrap repetitions. The cost-effectiveness ratio was sensitive to the amount of extrapolation beyond the empirical 5-year trial data: $127 503 per LYS at 5 years, $88 657 per LYS at 8 years, and $58 510 per LYS at 12 years. Because of a significant interaction between ICD treatment and New York Heart Association class, the cost-effectiveness ratio was $29 872 per LYS for class II, whereas there was incremental cost but no incremental benefit in class III.

Conclusions—

Prophylactic use of single-lead, shock-only ICD therapy is economically attractive in patients with stable, moderately symptomatic heart failure with an ejection fraction ≤35%, particularly those in NYHA class II, as long as the benefits of ICD therapy observed in the SCD-HeFT persist for at least 8 years.
The Modified Mosher’s Method and the Sulfoximine Method
Authors: Kusumi Takenori , Ooi Takashi , Ohkubo Yumi , Yabuuchi Tetsuya
Published: July 2006

This article describes the application of the modified Mosher’s method to a variety of natural products possessing a secondary alcohol for determining their absolute configuration. The method is generally applicable to secondary alcohols with a few exceptions where the hydroxy group is seriously hindered by neighboring substituents. Countermeasures to solve the problems are also described. Recent findings that the modified Mosher’s method can be used in solvents other than deutero-chloroform are included. Development and application of the sulfoximine method for the determination of the absolute configuration of chiral sulfoxides are also described.
Hybrid Digital Media Architectural Visualisation Delivery -Murcutt, Lewin & Lark's the Arthur and Yvonne Boyd Education Centre on Digital Flatland
Authors: Kwee Verdy , Radford Antony , Bruton Dean
Published: July 2006

This paper shares ongoing research explorations into visualising and representing architecture through the limited real-estate spaces of computer screens. It proposes greater access, ‘interactivity’ and clarity in digital representations for the study, analysis and/or digital record of existing architecture by drawing on concepts and strategies – within and outside the discipline – to arrive at hybrid visualisation techniques. To illustrate some of these techniques, the paper outlines several issues in the production of hybrid media representations of the Arthur and Yvonne Boyd Education Centre. This award-winning building was designed by the 2002 Pritzker Prize-winner, Glenn Murcutt in association with Wendy Lewin and Reg Lark. It is recognised as a landmark in Australian architecture and a worthy subject of our representation experiments.
Economic Implications of Nonpar Delivery Points for the Live Cattle Futures Contract
Authors: Crow J. Richard , Riley John B. , Purcell Wayne D.
Published: July 2006

With variable intermarket price relationships between Omaha and the outlying market areas, the use of a single adjustment factor for nonpar delivery points will not significantly improve hedging opportunities. Using the Guymon (Oklahoma) point to illustrate, the need for more sophisticated adjustment procedures or consideration of separate contracts is demonstrated.
Alternative Tax Treatment of Orchard Development Costs: Impacts on Producers, Middlemen, and Consumers
Authors: Carman Hoy F. , Youde James G.
Published: July 2006

Present federal income tax laws allow current deduction of development costs for most orchard crops. An economic surplus framework is used to analyze the impact of cost capitalization on producers, middlemen, and consumers. Estimated net social returns per dollar of tax subsidy range from $0.12 to $15.00 for five California orchard crops under present tax treatment.
The Optimum Combination of Resources Within and Among Country Elevators
Authors: Lytle P. W. , Hill L. D.
Published: July 2006

A sunk capital hypothesis and merger, analyzed with linear programming, are used as aggregate constraints to temper results of firm models when analyzing intermediate length‐of‐run structural adjustments of country elevators. The conflict of simultaneously recommending fewer firms in the industry and expansion of all individual firms is handled.
The Substitution of Analytic for Simulation Algorithms: A Comment
Authors: Candler Wilfred , Cartwright Wayne , Penn J. B.
Published: July 2006

An example problem that was initially analyzed by simulation and subsequently solved analytically is presented. It is argued that simulation algorithms are not necessarily preferable to analytic procedures even when problems contain apparently intractable features. Analytic solutions to simplified problems might prove useful even when a simulation algorithm is employed.
Consumer Attitudes and Their Impact on Fluid Milk Demand in Hawaii: A Component‐Regression Analysis Approach
Authors: Ratnam Nittala V. , Spielmann Heinz
Published: July 2006

Demand analysis for various fluid milk products at the retail level was extended beyond the usual price‐quantity‐income relationships. Use of component factor analysis has introduced attitudinal and taste information useful for market development, merchandising activities, and regulatory policy promulgation.
A Benefit‐Burden Analysis of Public School Financing: The Impact on Rural and Urban Taxpayers
Authors: Boisvert Richard N. , Mapp Harry P.
Published: July 2006

Expenditure benefit‐burden ratios were developed to analyze the implications for rural and urban taxpayers of several education finance alternatives. Equalizing expenditures through a statewide property tax would transfer net benefits to high income, suburban areas. Low Income rural taxpayers would benefit from greater reliance on the state income tax.
Farm Population Decline and the Income of Rural Families
Authors: Gardner Bruce L.
Published: July 2006

The effects of farm population decline on median rural family incomes in states and counties are estimated. Farm population decline is found to be associated with increases in incomes of rural farm families and to have no long term effect on incomes of rural non‐farm families.
A Truncated Maximin Approach to Farm Planning under Uncertainty with Discrete Probability Distributions
Authors: Maruyama Yoshihiro
Published: July 2006

A method is presented for solving linear programming problems under the assumption that input‐output, restraint, and functional coefficients follow a discrete joint probability distribution. This may be a rather plausible assumption in some uncertain farm planning contexts. The objective function is formulated in terms of variance and/or expectation. Special attention is given to the most adverse outcomes with respect to both the functional value and side constraints. Parametric analysis can be used to determine trade‐offs among the functional value, the adversity level, the tolerance probability, and the probability of infeasibility. Finally, the proposed method is applied to a farm problem.
The Rational Choice of Share Leasing and Implications for Efficiency
Authors: Sutinen J. G.
Published: July 2006

A formal statement of the theory of contractual choice is developed to derive conditions under which share leasing is rationally chosen. The allocative efficiency of share and nonshare leasing arrangements is compared under these conditions. Contrary to previous analyses, share leasing is shown to result in a higher expected level of farm output than otherwise. Therefore, land reform measures which restrict share leasing cannot be justified on grounds of improving productivity nor, as it turns out, on grounds of improving the sharecropper's welfare.
Acreage Response and Demand for Processing Tomatoes in California
Authors: Chern Wen S.
Published: July 2006

A theory of contracting is developed to show how acreage and price might be determined in the raw tomato market. The paper estimates the structural parameters of the acreage response and demand for processing tomatoes facing California growers. Several hypotheses of leadership pricing are tested. Results show that the California processing industry can be characterized as a competitive industry, since the leadership pricing as observed is consistent with the competitive pricing. Acreage response is shown to be price elastic. The adoption of the tomato harvester is found to have a significant impact on acreage response.
Grain Marketing and Transportation Interdependencies: A National Model
Authors: Fedeler Jerry A. , Heady Earl O.
Published: July 2006

Ten specifications of a linear programming model are developed to jointly select the least cost locations of grain production and interregional grain transportation in the United States. Analyses are based on 1980 demand projections for wheat, soybeans, and feed grains. Seven model options represent alternative transportation systems and include alternative cost estimates for railroad and barge transportation. Three other options are specified to analyze interdependencies between grain exports and transportation. Results suggest that choice of transportation mode and grain flows are sensitive to transportation cost changes and the distribution of exports among ports but the location of grain production is not.
Impact of Minimum Wages Upon the Level and Composition of Agricultural Employment
Authors: Lianos Theodore P.
Published: July 2006

This paper investigates the effects of minimum wages on agricultural employment in the southern U. S. The principal result was that the introduction of minimum wages decreased the employment of hired and total (hired plus family) labor. Estimates of employment reduction of hired labor due to minimum wages are provided.
Optimizing Subindustry Marketing Organizations: A Network Analysis Approach
Authors: Fuller Stephen W. , Randolph Paul , Klingman Darwin
Published: July 2006

A technique for solving large‐scale mixed‐integer plant‐location problems is developed and utilized. The plant‐location problem is formulated as a minimum‐cost‐flow network problem and solved with a special purpose network code in conjunction with implicit enumeration. Implicit enumeration reduces the number of plant combinations that need to be examined. The technique was applied to resolve a cotton‐ginning subindustry's least‐cost organizational adjustment to exogenous factors and involved consideration of short‐run plant costs that were piecewise linear with fixed charges, two‐levels of variable labor cost, storage costs, and assembly costs.
Impact of Dryeration on Grain Elevator Performance in a Fluctuating Energy Situation
Authors: Penson John B. , McCarl Bruce A.
Published: July 2006

The dryeration process was originally advanced by agricultural engineers to improve grain quality by reducing stress cracks to the kernel normally incurred in the conventional drying process. This study demonstrates that the country grain elevator with dryeration facilities also uses substantially less energy to dry the same amount of grain and achieves higher profits above variable costs associated with drying operations than the elevator with conventional drying facilities, regardless of grain moisture conditions. These advantages are shown to be further magnified if energy prices continue to rise or if potential energy shortfalls are realized.
Optimal Advertising Signals in the Florida Citrus Industry: A Research Application
Authors: Hochman Eithan , Regev Uri , Ward Ronald W.
Published: July 2006

A sales response to advertising for the Florida citrus industry is estimated and used to explore optimal levels of advertising. Results of an optimal control model show the gains that can be realized through inter‐ and intraseasonal changes in the level of advertising expenditures. These gains are generated by using imputed prices that take into account future gains of current advertising. An optimal path of adjustment in both advertising and sales over time is obtained which provides signals for an effective advertising policy.