bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Map Overlay Error Model Based on Boundary Geometry
Authors: Gaeuman David , Symanzik Jürgen , Schmidt John C.
Published: July 2005

An error model for quantifying the magnitudes and variability of errors generated in the areas of polygons during spatial overlay of vector geographic information system layers is presented. Numerical simulation of polygon boundary displacements was used to propagate coordinate errors to spatial overlays. The model departs from most previous error models in that it incorporates spatial dependence of coordinate errors at the scale of the boundary segment. It can be readily adapted to match the scale of error–boundary interactions responsible for error generation on a given overlay. The area of error generated by overlay depends on the sinuosity of polygon boundaries, as well as the magnitude of the coordinate errors on the input layers. Asymmetry in boundary shape has relatively little effect on error generation. Overlay errors are affected by real differences in boundary positions on the input layers, as well as errors in the boundary positions. Real differences between input layers tend to compensate for much of the error generated by coordinate errors. Thus, the area of change measured on an overlay layer produced by the XOR overlay operation will be more accurate if the area of real change depicted on the overlay is large. The model presented here considers these interactions, making it especially useful for estimating errors studies of landscape change over time.
A Genetic Approach to Detecting Clusters in Point Data Sets
Authors: Conley Jamison , Gahegan Mark , Macgill James
Published: July 2005

Spatial analysis techniques are widely used throughout geography. However, as the size of geographic data sets increases exponentially, limitations to the traditional methods of spatial analysis become apparent. To overcome some of these limitations, many algorithms for exploratory spatial analysis have been developed. This article presents both a new cluster detection method based on a genetic algorithm, and Programs for Cluster Detection, a toolkit application containing the new method as well as implementations of three established methods: Openshaw's Geographical Analysis Machine (GAM), case point‐centered searching (proposed by Besag and Newell), and randomized GAM (proposed by Fotheringham and Zhan). We compare the effectiveness of cluster detection and the runtime performance of these four methods and Kulldorf's spatial scan statistic on a synthetic point data set simulating incidence of a rare disease among a spatially variable background population. The proposed method has faster average running times than the other methods and significantly reduces overreporting of the underlying clusters, thus reducing the user's postprocessing burden. Therefore, the proposed method improves upon previous methods for automated cluster detection. The results of our method are also compared with those of Map Explorer (MAPEX), a previous attempt to develop a genetic algorithm for cluster detection. The results of these comparisons indicate that our method overcomes many of the problems faced by MAPEX, thus, we believe, establishing that genetic algorithms can indeed offer a viable approach to cluster detection.
Bureaucratic Competition in the Policy Process
Authors: Nicholson‐Crotty Sean
Published: July 2005

Recent scholarship has emphasized the important role that strategic bureaucratic actors play in the formulation of public policy. This study builds on that research by exploring the ways in which agencies strategically compete with one another over the content and character of public policy. Using insights from the literature that explicitly models bureaucratic competition, the study adapts an existing model of policymaking in subsystems to generate expectations about the causes and consequences of bureaucratic competition in the policy process. Finally, the article explores the utility of these propositions through a case study of a protracted policy battle over the management of natural resources in the western United States.
Structural analysis of the N‐glycans of the major cysteine proteinase of Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Barboza Mariana , Duschak Vilma G. , Fukuyama Yuko , Nonami Hiroshi , Erra‐Balsells Rosa , Cazzulo Juan J. , Couto Alicia S.
Published: July 2005

Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasitic protozoan that causes Chagas disease, contains a major cysteine proteinase, cruzipain. This lysosomal enzyme bears an unusual C‐terminal extension that contains a number of post‐translational modifications, and most antibodies in natural and experimental infections are directed against it. In this report we took advantage of UV‐MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry in conjunction with peptide N‐glycosidase F deglycosylation and high performance anion exchange chromatography analysis to address the structure of the N‐linked oligosaccharides present in this domain. The UV‐MALDI‐TOF MS analysis in the negative‐ion mode, using nor‐harmane as matrix, allowed us to determine a new striking feature in cruzipain: sulfated high‐mannose type oligosaccharides. Sulfated GlcNAc2Man3 to GlcNAc2Man9 species were identified. In accordance, after chemical or enzymatic desulfation, the corresponding signals disappeared. In addition, by UV‐MALDI‐TOF MS analysis (a) a main population of high‐mannose type oligosaccharides was shown in the positive‐ion mode, (b) lactosaminic glycans were also identified, among them, structures corresponding to monosialylated species were detected, and (c) as an interesting fact a fucosylated oligosaccharide was also detected. The presence of the deoxy sugar was further confirmed by high performance anion exchange chromatography. In conclusion, the total number of oligosaccharides occurring in cruzipain was shown to be much higher than previous estimates. This constitutes the first report on the presence of sulfated glycoproteins in Trypanosomatids.
Myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2) is a key modulator of the expression of the prothoracicotropic hormone gene in the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Shiomi Kunihiro , Fujiwara Yoshihiro , Atsumi Tsutomu , Kajiura Zenta , Nakagaki Masao , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Mizoguchi Akira , Yaginuma Toshinobu , Yamashita Okitsugu
Published: July 2005

Prothoracicotropic hormone (PTTH) plays a central role in controlling molting, metamorphosis, and diapause termination in insects by stimulating the prothoracic glands to synthesize and release the molting hormone, ecdysone. Using Autographa californica nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcNPV)‐mediated transient gene transfer into the central nervous sytem (CNS) of the silkworm, Bombyx mori, we identified two cis‐regulatory elements that participate in the decision and the enhancement of PTTH gene expression in PTTH‐producing neurosecretory cells (PTPCs). The cis‐element mediating the enhancement of PTTH gene expression binds the transcription factor Bombyx myocyte enhancer factor 2 (BmMEF2). The BmMEF2 gene was expressed in various tissues including the CNS. In brain, the BmMEF2 gene was expressed at elevated levels in two types of lateral neurosecretory cells, namely PTPCs and corazonin‐like immunoreactive lateral neurosecretory cells. Overexpression of BmMEF2 cDNA caused an increase in the transcription of PTTH. Therefore, BmMEF2 appears to be particularly important in the brain where it is responsible for the differentiation of lateral neurosecretory cells, including the enhancement of PTTH gene expression. This is the first report to identify a target gene of MEF2 in the invertebrate nervous system.
Mapping the functional domains of human transcobalamin using monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Fedosov Sergey N. , Örning Lars , Løvli Trond , Quadros Edward V. , Thompson Keith , Berglund Lars , Petersen Torben E.
Published: July 2005

Recombinant human transcobalamin (TC) was probed with 17 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), using surface plasmon resonance measurements. These experiments identified five distinct epitope clusters on the surface of holo‐TC. Western blot analysis of the CNBr cleavage fragments of TC allowed us to distribute the epitopes between two regions, which spanned either the second quarter of the TC sequence GQLA…TAAM(103–198) or the C‐terminal peptide LEPA…LVSW(316–427). Proteolytic fragments of TC and the synthetic peptides were used to further specify the epitope map and define the functional domains of TC. Only one antibody showed some interference with cobalamin (Cbl) binding to TC, and the corresponding epitope was situated at the C‐terminal stretch TQAS…QLLR(372–399). We explored the receptor‐blocking effect of several mAbs and heparin to identify TC domains essential for the interaction between holo‐TC and the receptor. The receptor‐related epitopes were located within the TC sequence GQLA…HHSV(103–159). The putative heparin‐binding site corresponded to a positively charged segment KRSN…RTVR(207–227), which also seemed to be necessary for receptor binding. We conclude that conformational changes in TC upon Cbl binding are accompanied by the convergence of multiple domains, and only the assembled conformation of the protein (i.e. holo‐TC) has high affinity for the receptor.
CHILD SUPPORT GUIDELINES:
Authors: Venohr Jane C. , Griffith Tracy E.
Published: July 2005

Since 1989, federal law requires states to have presumptive child support guidelines and review them using economic data on child‐rearing costs at least once every 4 years. This article reviews the child support guidelines models adopted by states, how they relate to estimates of child‐rearing expenditures, the extent that states are updating their guidelines, and some of the more controversial guidelines provisions (i.e., adjustments for shared‐parenting time, additional dependent children, and low‐income nonresidential parents). We find that many states are not updating their core formulas and schedules. As a result, several state guidelines produce support award amounts that are below the costs of raising children.
Management of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis: Comparative Efficacy of the Newer‐Generation Prescription Antihistamines
Authors: Conboy‐Ellis Kathleen
Published: July 2005

Purpose

To discuss the efficacy and safety of second‐generation prescription antihistamines, cetirizine, desloratadine, and fexofenadine, and to inform nurse practitioners (NP) who are in a position to optimally manage patients presenting with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR).

Data sources

Selected published clinical trials.

Conclusions

NP, who are ideally placed to successfully manage the majority of patients with SAR, should be fully aware of the treatment options available. Although first‐generation over‐the‐counter antihistamines are convenient to use and are readily accessible, patients run the risk of experiencing adverse effects, such as sedation. For this reason, second‐generation antihistamines should be considered a better alternative; however, they need to be evaluated individually on the basis of their proven efficacy and safety. Both cetirizine and fexofenadine are equally effective at relieving the symptoms of SAR; however, cetirizine has been shown to be more likely to cause sedation and impairment.

Implications for practice

If left untreated, SAR can have a substantial effect on patients’ quality of life, resulting in fatigue, irritability, sleep disorders, and cognitive impairment.
Activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) by resiniferatoxin
Authors: Raisinghani Manish , Pabbidi Reddy M. , Premkumar Louis S.
Published: July 2005

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a Ca2+ permeable non‐selective cation channel activated by physical and chemical stimuli. Resiniferatoxin (RTX), an ultrapotent agonist of TRPV1, is under investigation for treatment of urinary bladder hyper‐reflexia and chronic pain conditions. Here, we have determined the characteristics of RTX‐induced responses in cells expressing native and cloned rat TRPV1. Whole‐cell currents increase with repeated application of submaximal concentrations of RTX until a maximal response is attained and do not deactivate even after prolonged washout. Interestingly, the rate of activation and block by capsazepine of RTX‐induced currents are significantly slower than for capsaicin‐induced currents. RTX‐induced whole‐cell currents are outwardly rectifying, but to a lesser extent than capsaicin‐induced currents. RTX‐induced single channel currents exhibit multiple conductance states and outward rectification. The open probability (Po) of RTX‐induced currents is higher at all potentials as compared to capsaicin‐induced currents, which showed a strong voltage‐dependent decrease at negative potentials. Single‐channel kinetic analyses reveal that open‐time distribution of RTX‐induced currents can be fitted with three exponential components at negative and positive potentials. The areas of distribution of the longer open time constants are significantly larger than capsaicin‐induced currents. The closed‐time distribution of RTX‐induced currents can be fitted with three exponential components as compared to capsaicin‐induced currents, which require four exponential components. Current‐clamp experiments reveal that low concentrations of RTX caused a slow and sustained depolarization beyond threshold while generating few action potentials. Concentrations of capsaicin required for the same extent of depolarization generated a significantly greater number of action potentials. These properties of RTX may play a role in its clinical usefulness.
Balance between cardiac output and sympathetic nerve activity in resting humans: role in arterial pressure regulation
Authors: Charkoudian N. , Joyner M. J. , Johnson C. P. , Eisenach J. H. , Dietz N. M. , Wallin B. G.
Published: July 2005

Large, reproducible interindividual differences exist in resting sympathetic nerve activity among normotensive humans with similar arterial pressures, resulting in a lack of correlation between muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and arterial pressure among individuals. Although it is known that the arterial pressure is the main short‐term determinant of MSNA in humans via the arterial baroreflex, the lack of correlation among individuals suggests that the level of arterial pressure is not the only important input in regulation of MSNA in humans. We studied the relationship between cardiac output (CO) and baroreflex control of sympathetic activity by measuring MSNA (peroneal microneurography), arterial pressure (arterial catheter), CO (acetylene uptake technique) and heart rate (HR; electrocardiogram) in 17 healthy young men during 20 min of supine rest. Across individuals, MSNA did not correlate with mean or diastolic blood pressure (r < 0.01 for both), but displayed a significant negative correlation with CO (r=−0.71, P= 0.001). To assess whether CO is related to arterial baroreflex control of MSNA, we constructed a baroreflex threshold diagram for each individual by plotting the percentage occurrence of a sympathetic burst against diastolic pressure. The mid‐point of the diagram (T50) at which 50% of cardiac cycles are associated with bursts, was inversely related to CO (r=−0.75, P < 0.001) and stroke volume (SV) (r=−0.57, P= 0.015). We conclude that dynamic inputs from CO and SV are important in regulation of baroreflex control of MSNA in healthy, normotensive humans. This results in a balance between CO and sympathetically mediated vasoconstriction that may contribute importantly to normal regulation of arterial pressure in humans.
High intensity exercise decreases global brain glucose uptake in humans
Authors: Kemppainen Jukka , Aalto Sargo , Fujimoto Toshihiko , Kalliokoski Kari K. , Långsjö Jaakko , Oikonen Vesa , Rinne Juha , Nuutila Pirjo , Knuuti Juhani
Published: July 2005

Physiological activation increases glucose uptake locally in the brain. However, it is not known how high intensity exercise affects regional and global brain glucose uptake. The effect of exercise intensity and exercise capacity on brain glucose uptake was directly measured using positron emission tomography (PET) and [18F]fluoro‐deoxy‐glucose ([18F]FDG). Fourteen healthy, right‐handed men were studied after 35 min of bicycle exercise at exercise intensities corresponding to 30, 55 and 75% of on three separate days. [18F]FDG was injected 10 min after the start of the exercise. Thereafter exercise was continued for another 25 min. PET scanning of the brain was conducted after completion of the exercise. Regional glucose metabolic rate (rGMR) decreased in all measured cortical regions as exercise intensity increased. The mean decrease between the highest and lowest exercise intensity was 32% globally in the brain (38.6 ± 4.6 versus 26.1 ± 5.0 μmol (100 g)−1 min−1, P < 0.001). Lactate availability during exercise tended to correlate negatively with the observed brain glucose uptake. In addition, the decrease in glucose uptake in the dorsal part of the anterior cingulate cortex (37%versus 20%, P < 0.05 between 30% and 75% of ) was significantly more pronounced in subjects with higher exercise capacity. These results demonstrate that brain glucose uptake decreases with increase in exercise intensity. Therefore substrates other than glucose, most likely lactate, are utilized by the brain in order to compensate the increased energy needed to maintain neuronal activity during high intensity exercise. Moreover, it seems that exercise training could be related to adaptive metabolic changes locally in the frontal cortical regions.
Functional interconnectivity between the globus pallidus and the subthalamic nucleus in the mouse brain slice
Authors: Loucif K. C. , Wilson C. L. , Baig R. , Lacey M. G. , Stanford I. M.
Published: July 2005

In accordance with its central role in basal ganglia circuitry, changes in the rate of action potential firing and pattern of activity in the globus pallidus (GP)–subthalamic nucleus (STN) network are apparent in movement disorders. In this study we have developed a mouse brain slice preparation that maintains the functional connectivity between the GP and STN in order to assess its role in shaping and modulating bursting activity promoted by pharmacological manipulations. Fibre‐tract tracing studies indicated that a parasagittal slice cut 20 deg to the midline best preserved connectivity between the GP and the STN. IPSCs and EPSCs elicited by electrical stimulation confirmed connectivity from GP to STN in 44/59 slices and from STN to GP in 22/33 slices, respectively. In control slices, 74/76 (97%) of STN cells fired tonically at a rate of 10.3 ± 1.3 Hz. This rate and pattern of single spiking activity was unaffected by bath application of the GABAA antagonist picrotoxin (50 μm, n= 9) or the glutamate receptor antagonist (6‐cyano‐7‐nitroquinoxaline‐2, 3‐dione (CNQX) 10 μm, n= 8). Bursting activity in STN neurones could be induced pharmacologically by application of NMDA alone (20 μm, 3/18 cells, 17%) but was more robust if NMDA was applied in conjunction with apamin (20–100 nm, 34/77 cells, 44%). Once again, neither picrotoxin (50 μm, n= 5) nor CNQX (10 μm, n= 5) had any effect on the frequency or pattern of the STN neurone activity while paired STN and GP recordings of tonic and bursting activity show no evidence of coherent activity. Thus, in a mouse brain slice preparation where functional GP–STN connectivity is preserved, no regenerative synaptically mediated activity indicative of a dynamic network is evident, either in the resting state or when neuronal bursting in both the GP and STN is generated by application of NMDA/apamin. This difference from the brain in Parkinson's disease may be attributed either to insufficient preservation of cortico‐striato‐pallidal or cortico‐subthalamic circuitry, and/or an essential requirement for adaptive changes resulting from dopamine depletion for the expression of network activity within this tissue complex.
Fetal brain hypometabolism during prolonged hypoxaemia in the llama
Authors: Ebensperger Germán , Ebensperger Renato , Herrera Emilio A. , Riquelme Raquel A. , Sanhueza Emilia M. , Lesage Florian , Marengo Juan J. , Tejo Rodrigo I. , Llanos Aníbal J. , Reyes Roberto V.
Published: July 2005

In this study we looked for additional evidence to support the hypothesis that fetal llama reacts to hypoxaemia with adaptive brain hypometabolism. We determined fetal llama brain temperature, Na+ and K+ channel density and Na+–K+‐ATPase activity. Additionally, we looked to see whether there were signs of cell death in the brain cortex of llama fetuses submitted to prolonged hypoxaemia. Ten fetal llamas were instrumented under general anaesthesia to measure pH, arterial blood gases, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, and brain and core temperatures. Measurements were made 1 h before and every hour during 24 h of hypoxaemia (n= 5), which was imposed by reducing maternal inspired oxygen fraction to reach a fetal arterial partial pressure of oxygen (P) of about 12 mmHg. A normoxaemic group was the control (n= 5). After 24 h of hypoxaemia, we determined brain cortex Na+–K+‐ATPase activity, ouabain binding, and the expression of NaV1.1, NaV1.2, NaV1.3, NaV1.6, TREK1, TRAAK and KATP channels. The lack of brain cortex damage was assessed as poly ADP‐ribose polymerase (PARP) proteolysis. We found a mean decrease of 0.56°C in brain cortex temperature during prolonged hypoxaemia, which was accompanied by a 51% decrease in brain cortex Na+–K+‐ATPase activity, and by a 44% decrease in protein content of NaV1.1, a voltage‐gated Na+ channel. These changes occurred in absence of changes in PARP protein degradation, suggesting that the cell death of the brain was not enhanced in the fetal llama during hypoxaemia. Taken together, these results provide further evidence to support the hypothesis that the fetal llama responds to prolonged hypoxaemia with adaptive brain hypometabolism, partly mediated by decreases in Na+–K+‐ATPase activity and expression of NaV channels.
Membrane Wing-Based Micro Air Vehicles
Authors: Shyy Wei , Ifju Peter , Viieru Dragos
Published: July 2005

Micro air vehicles (MAVs) with a wingspan of 15cm or shorter, and flight speed around 10m∕s have attracted substantial interest in recent years. There are several prominent features of MAV flight: (i) low Reynolds number (104-105), resulting in degraded aerodynamic performance, (ii) small physical dimensions, resulting in certain favorable scaling characteristics including structural strength, reduced stall speed, and impact tolerance, and (iii) low flight speed, resulting in order one effect of the flight environment and intrinsically unsteady flight characteristics. Flexible wings utilizing membrane materials are employed by natural flyers such as bats and insects. Compared to a rigid wing, a membrane wing can better adapt to the stall and has the potential for morphing to achieve enhanced agility and storage consideration. We will discuss the aerodynamics of both rigid and membrane wings under the MAV flight condition. To understand membrane wing performance, the fluid and structure interaction is of critical importance. Flow structures associated with the low Reynolds number and low aspect ratio wing, such as pressure distribution, separation bubble, and tip vortex, as well as structural dynamics in response to the surrounding flow field are discussed. Based on the computational capabilities for treating moving boundary problems, an automated wing shape optimization technique is also developed. Salient features of the flexible-wing-based MAV, including the vehicle concept, flexible wing design, novel fabrication methods, aerodynamic assessment, and flight data analysis are highlighted.
Effect of Bow Wings on Ship Propulsion and Motions
Authors: Naito Shigeru , Isshiki Hiroshi
Published: July 2005

A seaworthy ship must have the ability to endure the constantly changing and sometimes harsh environments of the ocean. Stable operation of a ship is important not only to prevent capsizing, but also to maintain an acceptable level of comfort for the crew. When navigating through waves, a ship experiences greater resistance, which adversely affects its speed and stability. Hence, one of the most important goals of research and development in naval architecture is to stabilize a ship’s movement in waves. Insects, birds, and fish use wings and fins to maintain stability and to generate thrust. Drawing from these examples in nature, researchers have investigated the employment of wings to transform wave energy into propulsion and to improve a ship’s stability. Research has shown that bow wings can generate thrust while simultaneously enhancing ship stability. In this paper, we review various strategies for improved bow wing technologies. Both theoretical and experimental efforts are reviewed. The effects of wing shape, size, position, and stiffness on the characteristics of thrust and resistance are detailed. Various control and energy conversion strategies are discussed. Perspectives for further research and development are also presented.
On the Regulation of Populations of Mammals, Birds, Fish, and Insects
Authors: Sibly Richard M. , Barker Daniel , Denham Michael C. , Hone Jim , Pagel Mark
Published: July 2005

A key unresolved question in population ecology concerns the relationship between a population's size and its growth rate. We estimated this relationship for 1780 time series of mammals, birds, fish, and insects. We found that rates of population growth are high at low population densities but, contrary to previous predictions, decline rapidly with increasing population size and then flatten out, for all four taxa. This produces a strongly concave relationship between a population's growth rate and its size. These findings have fundamental implications for our understanding of animals' lives, suggesting in particular that many animals in these taxa will be found living at densities above the carrying capacity of their environments.
Dynamics of Mammalian Chromosome Evolution Inferred from Multispecies Comparative Maps
Authors: Murphy William J. , Larkin Denis M. , der Wind Annelie Everts-van , Bourque Guillaume , Tesler Glenn , Auvil Loretta , Beever Jonathan E. , Chowdhary Bhanu P. , Galibert Francis , Gatzke Lisa , Hitte Christophe , Meyers Stacey N. , Milan Denis , Ostrander Elaine A. , Pape Greg , Parker Heidi G. , Raudsepp Terje , Rogatcheva Margarita B. , Schook Lawrence B. , Skow Loren C. , Welge Michael , Womack James E. , O'Brien Stephen J. , Pevzner Pavel A. , Lewin Harris A.
Published: July 2005

The genome organizations of eight phylogenetically distinct species from five mammalian orders were compared in order to address fundamental questions relating to mammalian chromosomal evolution. Rates of chromosome evolution within mammalian orders were found to increase since the Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary. Nearly 20% of chromosome breakpoint regions were reused during mammalian evolution; these reuse sites are also enriched for centromeres. Analysis of gene content in and around evolutionary breakpoint regions revealed increased gene density relative to the genome-wide average. We found that segmental duplications populate the majority of primate-specific breakpoints and often flank inverted chromosome segments, implicating their role in chromosomal rearrangement.
Global Consequences of Land Use
Authors: Foley Jonathan A. , DeFries Ruth , Asner Gregory P. , Barford Carol , Bonan Gordon , Carpenter Stephen R. , Chapin F. Stuart , Coe Michael T. , Daily Gretchen C. , Gibbs Holly K. , Helkowski Joseph H. , Holloway Tracey , Howard Erica A. , Kucharik Christopher J. , Monfreda Chad , Patz Jonathan A. , Prentice I. Colin , Ramankutty Navin , Snyder Peter K.
Published: July 2005

Land use has generally been considered a local environmental issue, but it is becoming a force of global importance. Worldwide changes to forests, farmlands, waterways, and air are being driven by the need to provide food, fiber, water, and shelter to more than six billion people. Global croplands, pastures, plantations, and urban areas have expanded in recent decades, accompanied by large increases in energy, water, and fertilizer consumption, along with considerable losses of biodiversity. Such changes in land use have enabled humans to appropriate an increasing share of the planet's resources, but they also potentially undermine the capacity of ecosystems to sustain food production, maintain freshwater and forest resources, regulate climate and air quality, and ameliorate infectious diseases. We face the challenge of managing trade-offs between immediate human needs and maintaining the capacity of the biosphere to provide goods and services in the long term.
Fermionic Bell-State Analyzer for Spin Qubits
Authors: Engel Hans-Andreas , Loss Daniel
Published: July 2005

We propose a protocol and physical implementation for partial Bell-state measurements of Fermionic qubits, allowing for deterministic quantum computing in solid-state systems without the need for two-qubit gates. Our scheme consists of two spin qubits in a double quantum dot where the two dots have different Zeeman splittings and resonant tunneling between the dots is only allowed when the spins are antiparallel. This converts spin parity into charge information by means of a projective measurement and can be implemented with established technologies. This measurement-based qubit scheme greatly simplifies the experimental realization of scalable quantum computers in electronic nanostructures.
Control and Detection of Singlet-Triplet Mixing in a Random Nuclear Field
Authors: Koppens F. H. L. , Folk J. A. , Elzerman J. M. , Hanson R. , van Beveren L. H. Willems , Vink I. T. , Tranitz H. P. , Wegscheider W. , Kouwenhoven L. P. , Vandersypen L. M. K.
Published: July 2005

We observed mixing between two-electron singlet and triplet states in a double quantum dot, caused by interactions with nuclear spins in the host semiconductor. This mixing was suppressed when we applied a small magnetic field or increased the interdot tunnel coupling and thereby the singlet-triplet splitting. Electron transport involving transitions between triplets and singlets in turn polarized the nuclei, resulting in marked bistabilities. We extract from the fluctuating nuclear field a limitation on the time-averaged spin coherence time
T

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of 25 nanoseconds. Control of the electron-nuclear interaction will therefore be crucial for the coherent manipulation of individual electron spins.
Plant Circadian Clocks Increase Photosynthesis, Growth, Survival, and Competitive Advantage
Authors: Dodd Antony N. , Salathia Neeraj , Hall Anthony , Kévei Eva , Tóth Réka , Nagy Ferenc , Hibberd Julian M. , Millar Andrew J. , Webb Alex A. R.
Published: July 2005

Circadian clocks are believed to confer an advantage to plants, but the nature of that advantage has been unknown. We show that a substantial photosynthetic advantage is conferred by correct matching of the circadian clock period with that of the external light-dark cycle. In wild type and in long– and short–circadian period mutants of
Arabidopsis thaliana
, plants with a clock period matched to the environment contain more chlorophyll, fix more carbon, grow faster, and survive better than plants with circadian periods differing from their environment. This explains why plants gain advantage from circadian control.
Ocular injury in hurling
Authors: Flynn T H , Fennessy K , Horgan N , Walsh B , O’Connell E , Cleary P , Beatty S
Published: July 2005

Objectives:To describe the clinical characteristics of ocular injuries sustained in hurling in the south of Ireland and to investigate reasons for non-use of protective headgear and eye wear.

Methods:Retrospective review of the case notes of 310 patients who attended Cork University Hospital or Waterford Regional Hospital between 1 January 1994 and 31 December 2002 with ocular injuries sustained during a hurling match. A confidential questionnaire on reasons for non-use of protective headgear and eye wear was completed by 130 players.

Results:Hurling related eye injuries occurred most commonly in young men. Fifty two patients (17%) required hospital admission, with hyphaema accounting for 71% of admissions. Ten injuries required intraocular surgical intervention: retinal detachment repair (5); macular hole surgery (1); repair of partial thickness corneal laceration (1); repair of globe perforation (1); enucleation (1); trabeculectomy for post-traumatic glaucoma (1). Fourteen eyes (4.5%) had a final best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of <6/12 and six (2%) had BCVA <3/60. In the survey, 63 players (48.5%) reported wearing no protective facemask while playing hurling. Impairment of vision was the most common reason cited for non-use.

Conclusions:Hurling related injury is a significant, and preventable, cause of ocular morbidity in young men in Ireland. The routine use of appropriate protective headgear and faceguards would result in a dramatic reduction in the incidence and severity of these injuries, and should be mandatory.
Response of bone metabolism related hormones to a single session of strenuous exercise in active elderly subjects
Authors: Maïmoun L , Simar D , Malatesta D , Caillaud C , Peruchon E , Couret I , Rossi M , Mariano-Goulart D
Published: July 2005

Objective:To evaluate the effect of strenuous exercise on bone metabolism and related hormones in elderly subjects.

Methods:Twenty one active elderly subjects (11 men and 10 women; mean age 73.3 years) showing a mean theoretical Vo2maxof 151.4% participated. Concentrations of plasma ionised calcium (iCa), serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), and 1.25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 (1.25(OH)2D3), as well as the bone biochemical markers type I collagen C-telopeptide for bone resorption and osteocalcin and bone alkaline phosphatase for bone formation, were analysed before and after a maximal incremental exercise test.

Results:At basal level, iPTH was positively correlated with age (r = 0.56, p<0.01) and negatively correlated with 25(OH)D (r = −0.50; p<0.01) and 1.25(OH)2D3 (r = −0.47; p<0.05). Moreover, 25(OH)D and 1.25(OH)2D3 levels were negatively correlated with age (r = −0.50, p<0.01 and r = −0.53, p<0.01, respectively). After exercise, iCa and 25(OH)D decreased (p<0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively) while iPTH increased (p<0.001). The levels of 1.25(OH)2D3, bone biochemical markers, haematocrit, and haemoglobin were unchanged. The variations in iCa and 25(OH)D were not related to age and/or sex. The iPTH variation was directly related to basal iPTH levels (p<0.01) and indirectly related to age.

Conclusions:In active elderly subjects, strenuous exercise disturbed calcium homeostasis and bone related hormones without immediate measurable effect on bone turnover. Although an increase in iPTH could have an anabolic action on bone tissue, our findings from our short term study did not allow us to conclude that such action occurred.
Cooling methods used in the treatment of exertional heat illness
Authors: Smith J E
Published: July 2005

Objective:To review the different methods of reducing body core temperature in patients with exertional heatstroke.

Methods:The search strategy included articles from 1966 to July 2003 using the databases Medline and Premedline, Embase, Evidence Based Medicine (EBM) reviews, SPORTDiscus, and cross referencing the bibliographies of relevant papers. Studies were included if they contained original data on cooling times or cooling rates in patients with heat illness or normal subjects who were subjected to heat stress.

Results:In total, 17 papers were included in the analysis. From the evidence currently available, the most effective method of reducing body core temperature appears to be immersion in iced water, although the practicalities of this treatment may limit its use. Other methods include both evaporative and invasive techniques, and the use of chemical agents such as dantrolene.

Conclusions:The main predictor of outcome in exertional heatstroke is the duration and degree of hyperthermia. Where possible, patients should be cooled using iced water immersion, but, if this is not possible, a combination of other techniques may be used to facilitate rapid cooling. There is no evidence to support the use of dantrolene in these patients. Further work should include a randomised trial comparing immersion and evaporative therapy in heatstroke patients.
Role of exercise stress test in master athletes
Authors: Pigozzi F , Spataro A , Alabiso A , Parisi A , Rizzo M , Fagnani F , Di Salvo V , Massazza G , Maffulli N
Published: July 2005

Background:The effectiveness of cardiovascular screening in minimising the risk of athletic field deaths in master athletes is not known.

Objective:To evaluate the prevalence and clinical significance of ST segment depression during a stress test in asymptomatic apparently healthy elderly athletes.

Methods:A total of 113 male subjects aged over 60 were studied (79 trained and 34 sedentary); 88 of them (62 trained and 26 sedentary) were followed up for four years (mean 2.16 years for athletes, 1.26 years for sedentary subjects), with a resting 12 lead electrocardiogram (ECG), symptom limited exercise ECG on a cycle ergometer, echocardiography, and 24 hour ECG Holter monitoring.

Results:A significant ST segment depression at peak exercise was detected in one athlete at the first evaluation. A further case was seen during the follow up period in a previously “negative” athlete. Both were asymptomatic, and single photon emission tomography and/or stress echocardiography were negative for myocardial ischaemia. The athletes remained symptom-free during the period of the study. One athlete died during the follow up for coronary artery disease: he showed polymorphous ventricular tachycardia during both the exercise test and Holter monitoring, but no significant ST segment depression.

Conclusions:The finding of false positive ST segment depression in elderly athletes, although still not fully understood, may be related to the physiological cardiac remodelling induced by regular training. Thus athletes with exercise induced ST segment depression, with no associated symptoms and/or complex ventricular arrhythmias, and no adverse findings at second level cardiological testing, should be considered free from coronary disease and safe to continue athletic training.
Medical survey of female boxing in Italy in 2002–2003
Authors: Bianco M , Pannozzo A , Fabbricatore C , Sanna N , Moscetti M , Palmieri V , Zeppilli P
Published: July 2005

Background:Female boxing has been permitted in Italy since 2001. According to the latest Italian laws, athletes applying to become boxers have to pass a pre-participation medical examination.

Objective:To collect novel medical information from the pre-participation visits and mandatory pre-competition and post-competition examinations for all fights involving Italian female boxers in 2002–2003.

Methods:A retrospective study on all official female boxing competitions in Italy from January 2002 to October 2003 was conducted. A prospective study on 28 amateur female boxers was also carried out.

Results:Retrospective study: data from 664 examinations were collected. Pre-match examinations were negative. After competitions, 19/645 visits showed some injuries, with mild, soft tissue facial lesions, epistaxis, and hand-wrist problems being the most common. Prospective study: no major lesions were found during the study. One fibroadenoma, one ovarian cyst, and one intramural uterine myoma were found. One boxer was referred to a neurologist because of non-specific electroencephalographic (EEG) abnormalities, which persisted six months later. On a re-admission examination, which was needed because of a contest that was stopped because the referee judged that she was receiving blows to the head that were dangerous, one boxer showed non-specific EEG alterations and nystagmus. A cerebral magnetic resonance imaging scan was normal. She was allowed to participate in competitions again when her EEG returned to normal and clinical signs disappeared. Deviation of the nasal septum was quite common (68%). No major eye injuries were reported.

Conclusion:Probably because of the correct preventive medical approach, female boxing is much safer than expected, and no major lesions (requiring hospital admission) were reported. Any lesions to the breast and reproductive system could not be considered to be boxing related.
Effects of intra-session concurrent endurance and strength training sequence on aerobic performance and capacity
Authors: Chtara M , Chamari K , Chaouachi M , Chaouachi A , Koubaa D , Feki Y , Millet G P , Amri M
Published: July 2005

Aim:To examine the effects of the sequencing order of individualised intermittent endurance training combined with muscular strengthening on aerobic performance and capacity.

Methods:Forty eight male sport students (mean (SD) age 21.4 (1.3) years) were divided into five homogeneous groups according to their maximal aerobic speeds (vV˙o2max). Four groups participated in various training programmes for 12 weeks (two sessions a week) as follows: E (n  =  10), running endurance training; S (n  =  9), strength circuit training; E+S (n  =  10) and S+E (n  =  10) combined the two programmes in a different order during the same training session. Group C (n  =  9) served as a control. All the subjects were evaluated before (T0) and after (T1) the training period using four tests: (1) a 4 km time trial running test; (2) an incremental track test to estimatevV˙o2max; (3) a time to exhaustion test (tlim) at 100%vV˙o2max; (4) a maximal cycling laboratory test to assess V˙o2max.

Results:Training produced significant improvements in performance and aerobic capacity in the 4 km time trial with interaction effect (p<0.001). The improvements were significantly higher for the E+S group than for the E, S+E, and S groups: 8.6%, 5.7%, 4.7%, and 2.5% for the 4 km test (p<0.05); 10.4%, 8.3%, 8.2%, and 1.6% forvV˙o2max(p<0.01); 13.7%, 10.1%, 11.0%, and 6.4% for V˙o2max(ml/kg0.75/min) (p<0.05) respectively. Similar significant results were observed for tlimand the second ventilatory threshold (%V˙o2max).

Conclusions:Circuit training immediately after individualised endurance training in the same session (E+S) produced greater improvement in the 4 km time trial and aerobic capacity than the opposite order or each of the training programmes performed separately.
Soccer injury in the lower extremities
Authors: Wong P , Hong Y
Published: July 2005

Information about soccer injuries is required to develop prevention and rehabilitation programmes. Most soccer injuries occur in the lower extremities. This type of injury is reviewed here. Definitions of injury, injury rate, injury percentage, mechanism of injury, anatomical region of injury, type of injury, and severity of injury are summarised. In each section, a description and summary of the data are provided. Finally, the limitations of the studies and suggestions to improve the investigation of soccer injuries are provided.
Reliable change assessment in sport concussion research: a comment on the proposal and reviews of Collieet al
Authors: Maassen G H
Published: July 2005

The proposal of Collieet alfor determining reliable change in sports medicine and their review of other current procedures did not address mathematical or theoretical aspects. This article attempts to fill this lacuna, in order to examine the validity of their proposal and the suitability of their review. The conclusions drawn are that Collieet alpresented their method too carelessly and their review of other methods leaves serious drawbacks and mistakes unnoticed. A scheme is here provided showing which of the current methods can be used in which situation.
Effects of heading exposure and previous concussions on neuropsychological performance among Norwegian elite footballers
Authors: Straume-Naesheim T M , Andersen T E , Dvorak J , Bahr R
Published: July 2005

Background:Cross-sectional studies have indicated that neurocognitive performance may be impaired among football players. Heading the ball has been suggested as the cause, but recent reviews state that the reported deficits are more likely to be the result of head injuries.

Objective:To examine the association between previous concussions and heading exposure with performance on computer based neuropsychological tests among professional Norwegian football players.

Methods:Players in the Norwegian professional football league (Tippeligaen) performed two consecutive baseline neuropsychological tests (Cogsport) before the 2004 season (90.3% participation, n = 271) and completed a questionnaire assessing previous concussions, match heading exposure (self-reported number of heading actions per match), player career, etc. Heading actions for 18 players observed in two to four matches were counted and correlated with their self-reported values.

Results:Neither match nor lifetime heading exposure was associated with neuropsychological test performance. Nineteen players scored below the 95% confidence interval for one or more subtasks, but they did not differ from the rest regarding the number of previous concussions or lifetime or match heading exposure. The number of previous concussions was positively associated with lifetime heading exposure (exponent (B) = 1.97(1.03–3.75), p = 0.039), but there was no relation between previous concussions and test performance. Self-reported number of headings correlated well with the observed values (Spearman’s ρ = 0.77, p<0.001).

Conclusion:Computerised neuropsychological testing revealed no evidence of neuropsychological impairment due to heading exposure or previous concussions in a cohort of Norwegian professional football players.
The association between psychosocial characteristics at work and problem drinking: a cross-sectional study of men in three Eastern European urban populations
Authors: Bobak M , Pikhart H , Kubinova R , Malyutina S , Pajak A , Sebakova H , Topor-Madry R , Nikitin Y , Caan W , Marmot M
Published: July 2005

Background:Psychosocial factors at work are thought to influence health partly through health behaviours.

Aims:To examine the association between effort-reward imbalance and job control and several alcohol related measures in three eastern European populations.

Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted in Novosibirsk (Russia), Krakow (Poland), and Karvina (Czech Republic). The participants completed a questionnaire that included effort-reward at work, job control, and a number of sociodemographic variables. Annual alcohol intake, annual number of drinking sessions, the mean dose of alcohol per drinking session, and binge drinking (⩾80 g of ethanol in one session at least once a week) were based on graduated frequencies in the questionnaire. Data were also available on problem drinking (⩾2 positive answers on CAGE questionnaire) and negative social consequences of drinking. All male participants in full employment (n = 694) were included in the present analyses.

Results:After controlling for age and centre, all indices of alcohol consumption and problem drinking were associated with the effort-reward ratio. Adjustment for material deprivation did not change the results but adjustment for depressive symptoms reduced the estimated effects. Job control was not associated with any of the alcohol related outcomes.

Conclusions:The imbalance of effort-reward at work is associated with increased alcohol intake and problem drinking. The association appears to be partly mediated by depressive symptoms, which might be either an antecedent or a consequence of men’s drinking behaviour.