bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vascular endothelial growth factor and its soluble receptor, Flt‐1, are not correlated to erythropoietin in diabetics with normal or reduced renal function
Authors: LENZ TOMAS , GAUER STEFAN , WEICH HERBERT A , HAAK THOMAS , BERGNER RAOUL , GOSSMANN JAN
Published: February 2005

Background and Aims:  Recombinant erythropoietin upregulates the expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors, Flt‐1 (VEGFR‐1) and KDR/Flk‐1 (VEGFR‐2), in endothelial cells. The integrity of the VEGF system seems to be crucial for the regulation of endothelial permeability and thus for the avoidance of renal protein leakage. As albuminuria/proteinuria is a hallmark of diabetic nephropathy, we examined cross‐sectionally in 35 type 1 and 37 type 2 diabetic patients with various degrees of renal dysfunction and albuminuria whether there was an interrelationship between intrinsic erythropoietin (EPO) and VEGF/Flt‐1.

Methods and Results:  In patients with plasma creatinine values ≤1.5 (n = 53) or >1.5 mg/dL (n = 19), the mean serum EPO was 5.6 ± 4.4 and 10.2 ± 7.0 mU/mL (P = 0.02), respectively. In the two groups, urinary and serum VEGF165 concentrations were similarly distributed (mean 94.3 ± 91.8 vs 108 ± 72.2 ng/L and 91.7 ± 76.8 vs 91.9 ± 74.9 ng/L, respectively; both P = NS). The mean urinary Flt‐1 for the two groups amounted to 0.14 ± 0.35 and 0.51 ± 0.93 ng/mL (P = 0.045), respectively. No correlation between VEGF or Flt‐1 and EPO was apparent.

Conclusion:  Our data suggest that in vivo EPO does not affect the functionality and/or production of components of the VEGF/Flt‐1 system in diabetics with normal or reduced renal function.
Determinants of health‐related quality of life in institutionalised older persons in northern Sydney
Authors: Sitoh Y. Y. , Lau T. C. , Zochling J. , Schwarz J. , Chen J. S. , March L. M. , Cumming R. G. , Lord S. R. , Sambrook P. N. , Cameron I. D.
Published: February 2005

Abstract

It is recognised that the focus of health‐care interventions for frail older persons should not be restricted to increasing longevity, but should encompass measures aimed at improving or maintaining the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of these individuals. We studied the HRQoL profile of 612 frail older persons residing in nursing homes and hostels in northern Sydney, Australia, and sought to ascertain some of the factors that affect their perceived quality of life. Our findings suggest that common health states that may cause loss of independence and dignity (e.g. presence of osteoarthritis, presence of urinary incontinence, previous fracture, Parkinson's Disease and increasing frailty as reflected by residence in nursing homes) are strongly, and independently, associated with the HRQoL of institutionalised older persons. Some of these conditions may be amenable to intervention. (Intern Med J 2005; 35: 131–134)
Effect of Low‐Intensity Acenocoumarol on Frequency and Severity of Migraine Attacks
Authors: Wammes‐van der Elisabeth A. , PharmD Heijden , Smidt Martijn H. , Tijssen Cees C. , Van‘t Hoff Annelies R. , Lenderink, PharmD Albert W. , Egberts, PharmD Antoine C.G.
Published: February 2005

Objective.—To investigate the effect of low‐intensity acenocoumarol treatment (target INR 1.5 to 2.0) on the frequency and severity of migraine attacks.

Background.—The positive effect of anticoagulation on migraine has been described in case reports and observational studies.

Methods.—We conducted a randomized, open, crossover study in migraine patients. After a run‐in period of 8 weeks, all patients received acenocoumarol or propranolol during a period of 12 weeks and, after a washout period of 2 weeks, propranolol or acenocoumarol during a second period of 12 weeks.

Results.—Nineteen patients fulfilling the criteria were included. In 12 patients with complete data collection, only one good responder could be noted. In the other patients, treatment with low‐intensity acenocoumarol did not show improvement of migraine symptoms compared with the run‐in period. Treatment with propranolol showed a trend towards improvement compared with the run‐in period. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions.—Overall, low‐intensity acenocoumarol treatment has no prophylactic effect in migraine patients.
Headaches as the Main Presenting Symptom of Subacute Angle Closure Glaucoma
Authors: Nesher Ronit , Epstein Esther , Stern Yafit , Assia Ehud , Nesher Gideon
Published: February 2005

The diagnosis of subacute angle closure glaucoma is suspected in patients with narrow angles of the anterior chamber of the eye, presenting with periodic ocular, or periocular pain. However, some patients may present with headaches in the absence of significant ocular discomfort, which often leads to misdiagnosis and delay in specific therapy. The clinical features of 9 such patients are described. Subacute angle closure glaucoma should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of adult‐onset headaches.
Nurse Counseling of Patients With an Overconsumption of Alcohol
Authors: Willaing Ingrid , Ladelund Steen
Published: February 2005

Purpose:

To identify the associations between self‐reported alcohol‐related clinical practice among hospital nurses and their (a) self‐rated qualifications for counseling on alcohol, and (b) attitudes toward care of patients with an overconsumption of alcohol.

Design and Methods:

A survey based on self‐administered questionnaires was undertaken at a Danish University Hospital in the Copenhagen area. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square test, and multiple logistic regression analyses were used. Variables were self‐reported alcohol‐related counseling, self‐rated qualifications for counseling patients with an overconsumption of alcohol, attitudes toward the priority of counseling on alcohol and other lifestyle issues, and attitudes toward caring for patients with an overconsumption of alcohol.

Findings:

Self‐rated qualifications for counseling and attitudes toward care significantly influenced the self‐reported clinical care of patients with an overconsumption of alcohol. Perceived self‐efficacy was positively associated with frequent counseling and positive attitudes toward prevention. Psychiatric nurses were most active, medical nurses less active, and surgical nurses least active in counseling.

Conclusions:

To promote nurse involvement in alcohol prevention, increasing the capacity for intervention via skill‐based training on assessment of alcohol problems and intervention techniques is necessary. All nurses, but especially surgical nurses, needed updates on alcohol‐related counseling.
A nondestructive tool for nanomaterials: Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy
Authors: Singha A. , Dhar P. , Roy Anushree
Published: February 2005

Modern materials science requires efficient processing and characterization techniques for low dimensional systems. Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy are important nondestructive tools which provide much information about such systems. Commercial Raman spectrometers are expensive. We discuss a less expensive apparatus with assembled collection optics. Studies of Ge nanoparticles, porous silicon (nanowire), carbon nanotubes, and two-dimensional InGaAs quantum layers demonstrate that this apparatus is useful for teaching and research on nanomaterials.
Visualizing curved spacetime
Authors: Jonsson Rickard M.
Published: February 2005

I present a way to visualize the concept of curved spacetime. The result is a curved surface with local coordinate systems (Minkowski systems) living on it, giving the local directions of space and time. Relative to these systems, special relativity holds. The method can be used to visualize gravitational time dilation, the horizon of black holes, and cosmological models. The idea underlying the illustrations is first to specify a field of timelike four-velocities uμ. Then, at every point, one performs a coordinate transformation to a local Minkowski system comoving with the given four-velocity. In the local system, the sign of the spatial part of the metric is flipped to create a new metric of Euclidean signature. The new positive definite metric, called the absolute metric, can be covariantly related to the original Lorentzian metric. For the special case of a two-dimensional original metric, the absolute metric may be embedded in three-dimensional Euclidean space as a curved surface.
Nodal Quasiparticles and Antinodal Charge Ordering in Ca
2-x
Na
x
CuO
2
Cl
2
Authors: Shen Kyle M. , Ronning F. , Lu D. H. , Baumberger F. , Ingle N. J. C. , Lee W. S. , Meevasana W. , Kohsaka Y. , Azuma M. , Takano M. , Takagi H. , Shen Z.-X.
Published: February 2005

Understanding the role of competing states in the cuprates is essential for developing a theory for high-temperature superconductivity. We report angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy experiments which probe the 4
a
0
× 4
a
0
charge-ordered state discovered by scanning tunneling microscopy in the lightly doped cuprate superconductor Ca
2–x
Na
x
CuO
2
Cl
2
. Our measurements reveal a marked dichotomy between the real- and momentum-space probes, for which charge ordering is emphasized in the tunneling measurements and photoemission is most sensitive to excitations near the node of the
d
-wave superconducting gap. These results emphasize the importance of momentum anisotropy in determining the complex electronic properties of the cuprates and places strong constraints on theoretical models of the charge-ordered state.
Astrophysical Observations: Lensing and Eclipsing Einstein's Theories
Authors: Bennett Charles L.
Published: February 2005

Albert Einstein postulated the equivalence of energy and mass, developed the theory of special relativity, explained the photoelectric effect, and described Brownian motion in five papers, all published in 1905, 100 years ago. With these papers, Einstein provided the framework for understanding modern astrophysical phenomena. Conversely, astrophysical observations provide one of the most effective means for testing Einstein's theories. Here, I review astrophysical advances precipitated by Einstein's insights, including gravitational redshifts, gravitational lensing, gravitational waves, the Lense-Thirring effect, and modern cosmology. A complete understanding of cosmology, from the earliest moments to the ultimate fate of the universe, will require developments in physics beyond Einstein, to a unified theory of gravity and quantum physics.
Two Abundant Bioaccumulated Halogenated Compounds Are Natural Products
Authors: Teuten Emma L. , Xu Li , Reddy Christopher M.
Published: February 2005

Methoxylated polybrominated diphenyl ethers (MeO-PBDEs) have been found bioaccumulated in the tissues of a variety of aquatic animals and at concentrations comparable to those of anthropogenic halogenated organic compounds, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The origin of the MeO-PBDEs has been uncertain; circumstantial evidence supports a natural and/or an industrial source. By analyzing the natural abundance radiocarbon content of two MeO-PBDEs isolated from a True's beaked whale (
Mesoplodon mirus
), we show that these compounds were naturally produced.
Liquid Carbon, Carbon-Glass Beads, and the Crystallization of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: de Heer Walt A. , Poncharal Philippe , Berger Claire , Gezo Joseph , Song Zhimin , Bettini Jefferson , Ugarte Daniel
Published: February 2005

The formation of carbon nanotubes in a pure carbon arc in a helium atmosphere is found to involve liquid carbon. Electron microscopy shows a viscous liquid-like amorphous carbon layer covering the surfaces of nanotube-containing millimeter-sized columnar structures from which the cathode deposit is composed. Regularly spaced, submicrometer-sized spherical beads of amorphous carbon are often found on the nanotubes at the surfaces of these columns. Apparently, at the anode, liquid-carbon drops form, which acquire a carbon-glass surface due to rapid evaporative cooling. Nanotubes crystallize inside the supercooled, glass-coated liquid-carbon drops. The carbon-glass layer ultimately coats and beads on the nanotubes near the surface.
Mammalian SAD Kinases Are Required for Neuronal Polarization
Authors: Kishi Masashi , Pan Y. Albert , Crump Justin Gage , Sanes Joshua R.
Published: February 2005

Electrical activity in neurons is generally initiated in dendritic processes then propagated along axons to synapses, where it is passed to other neurons. Major structural features of neurons—their dendrites and axons—are thus related to their fundamental functions: the receipt and transmission of information. The acquisition of these distinct properties by dendrites and axons, called polarization, is a critical step in neuronal differentiation. We show here that SAD-A and SAD-B, mammalian orthologs of a kinase needed for presynaptic differentiation in
Caenorhabditis elegans
, are required for neuronal polarization. These kinases will provide entry points for unraveling signaling mechanisms that polarize neurons.
Time and the Quantum: Erasing the Past and Impacting the Future
Authors: Aharonov Yakir , Zubairy M. Suhail
Published: February 2005

The quantum eraser effect of Scully and Drühl dramatically underscores the difference between our classical conceptions of time and how quantum processes can unfold in time. Such eyebrow-raising features of time in quantum mechanics have been labeled “the fallacy of delayed choice and quantum eraser” on the one hand and described “as one of the most intriguing effects in quantum mechanics” on the other. In the present paper, we discuss how the availability or erasure of information generated in the past can affect how we interpret data in the present. The quantum eraser concept has been studied and extended in many different experiments and scenarios, for example, the entanglement quantum eraser, the kaon quantum eraser, and the use of quantum eraser entanglement to improve microscopic resolution.
Changes to respiratory mechanisms during speech as a result of different cues to increase loudness
Authors: Huber Jessica E. , Chandrasekaran Bharath , Wolstencroft John J.
Published: February 2005

The purpose of the present study was to determine whether different cues to increase loudness in speech result in different internal targets (or goals) for respiratory movement and whether the neural control of the respiratory system is sensitive to changes in the speaker's internal loudness target. This study examined respiratory mechanisms during speech in 30 young adults at comfortable level and increased loudness levels. Increased loudness was elicited using three methods: asking subjects to target a specific sound pressure level, asking subjects to speak twice as loud as comfortable, and asking subjects to speak in noise. All three loud conditions resulted in similar increases in sound pressure level . However, the respiratory mechanisms used to support the increase in loudness differed significantly depending on how the louder speech was elicited. When asked to target at a particular sound pressure level, subjects used a mechanism of increasing the lung volume at which speech was initiated to take advantage of higher recoil pressures. When asked to speak twice as loud as comfortable, subjects increased expiratory muscle tension, for the most part, to increase the pressure for speech. However, in the most natural of the elicitation methods, speaking in noise, the subjects used a combined respiratory approach, using both increased recoil pressures and increased expiratory muscle tension. In noise, an additional target, possibly improving intelligibility of speech, was reflected in the slowing of speech rate and in larger volume excursions even though the speakers were producing the same number of syllables.
High glucose rapidly activates the nitric oxide/cyclic nucleotide pathway in human platelets via an osmotic mechanism
Authors: Massucco Paola , Mattiello Luigi , Russo Isabella , Traversa Monica , Doronzo Gabriella , Anfossi Giovanni , Trovati Mariella
Published: February 2005

The aim was to evaluate whether high glucose influences the nitric oxide (NO)/cyclic nucleotide pathway in human platelets via osmotic stress and to clarify the role of protein kinase C (PKC) in this phenomenon. The study was carried out on 33 healthy lean male volunteers, aged 28.3±1.3 years. NO synthesis was detected as L-citrulline production after L-arginine incubation in platelets incubated for 6 min with 22.0 mM D-glucose and isoosmolar concentrations of mannitol, L-glucose and fructose. To evaluate the influence of PKC, experiments with D-glucose and mannitol were repeated in the presence of the PKC-beta selective inhibitor LY379196, and NO synthesis was detected after a 6-min incubation with phorbol 12-mirystate 13-acetate (PMA), a non-selective PKC activator. Platelet content of guano-sine-3’, 5’-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) and adenosine-3’, 5’-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) was measured by radio-immunoassay in platelets incubated with iso-osmolar concentrations of D-glucose, mannitol, L-glucose and fructose. NO-dependence of cyclic nucleotide enhancements was evaluated by inhibiting NO synthase and guanylate cyclase. Platelet aggregation to ADP and collagen was evaluated in Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in the presence of a 6-min incubation with D-glucose and mannitol, both without and with LY379196 and the guany-late cyclase inhibitor (H-[1, 2, 4]Oxadiazolo [4, 3-a]quinoxaline-1-one)(ODQ). Iso-osmolar concentrations of D-glucose, mannitol, L-glucose and fructose, and PMA increased NO production (p=0.0001). Effects of D-glucose and mannitol were blunted by LY379196. D-glucose and mannitol enhanced platelet cGMP and cAMP (p=0.0001) with a mechanism blunted by NO synthase and guanylate-cyclase inhibition, but did not modify platelet aggregation. In conclusion, glucose activates the NO/cyclic nucleotide pathway in human platelets with an osmotic mechanism mediated by PKC-beta.
Molecular mechanism of dysfunctional factor VII associated with the homozygous missense mutation 331Gly to Ser
Authors: Kimura Shinya , Takamiya Osamu
Published: February 2005

We have identified a Japanese homozygous FVII deficiency associated with the mutation G331S (c184 [in chymotrypsin numbering]), and have determined the mechanisms responsible for the dysfunctional FVII variant by expressing the mutant recombinant FVII protein. In addition, the recombinant proteins FVIIG331D, G331W and G331F were expressed. The purified recombinant FVII proteins ran as a single chain form on SDS-PAGE having a molecular mass of approximately 50Kda. The recombinant FVIIG331S expressed the level of the recombinant wild type FVII at 2.0%, and this mutant form was also similar to FVII in the patient’s plasma. However, the amidolytic activity of FVIIa using peptidyl substrate S-2288 differed little between the wild type and the four mutant FVII molecules. We suggest that the functional defect found in these mutants is not directly associated with peptidyl substrate recognition or catalysis. The Km values of FX and FIX for the mutant proteins were approximately 7.6– to 15-fold and 13– to 19-fold higher than those for the wild-type protein, respectively. Molecular modelling indicated that the side chain of the S331 mutant is oriented close to the side chain of D338 (c189) at the bottom of the specificity pocket of FVIIa. We show that the replacement of G331 with a serine likely results in a steric hindrance of macromolecular substrate binding, leading to a loss of FVIIa enzymatic activity.
–455 G/A polymorphism and preprocedural plasma levels of fibrinogen show no association with the risk of clinical restenosis in patients with coronary stent placement
Authors: Monraats Pascalle , Rana Jamal , Zwinderman Aeilko , de Maat Moniek , Kastelein John , Agema Willem , Doevendans Pieter , de Winter Robbert , Tio René , Waltenberger Johannes , Frants Rune , van der Laarse Arnoud , van der Wall Ernst , Jukema J. Wouter
Published: February 2005

The effect of preprocedural fibrinogen levels on in-stent restenosis is largely unknown. The –455 G/A polymorphism of the fibrinogen β-gene is associated with baseline plasma level or acute phase increase of fibrinogen. Therefore, we hypothesized that there is a relationship between this polymorphism and pre-procedural fibrinogen level and clinical restenosis at follow-up among patients with coronary stent placement. The GENetic DEterminants of Restenosis (GENDER) project is a multicenter follow-up study that enrolled 3,146 consecutive patients after successful percutaneous coronary intervention. A coronary stent was placed in 2,309 patients. Of these, 2,257 (97.7%) patients were successfully genotyped for the –455G/A polymorphism. Plasma fibrinogen levels were measured at baseline in a subpopulation of 623 stented patients with the von Clauss method and patients were grouped into tertiles according to fibrinogen levels. Primary endpoint was target vessel revascularization (TVR); secondary combined endpoint was defined as death presumably from cardiac causes, MI not attributable to another coronary artery than the target vessel, and TVR. No association was observed between the –455G/A polymorphism and TVR or combined endpoint (p=0.99, p=0.97, respectively). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that the risk of TVR and combined endpoint was not higher for patients in the highest tertile for fibrinogen versus the lowest tertile (RR=0.60, 95% CI: 0.26–1.37 for TVR, RR=0.64, 95% CI: 0.29–1.44 for combined endpoint). In conclusion, the presence of –455G/A polymorphism in the fibrinogen β-gene and preprocedural fibrinogen level is not associated with an increased risk of TVR or combined endpoint in a patient population with coronary stent placement. Therefore, these parameters are not worthwhile for stratifying patients at risk for restenosis prestenting.
Ubiquitous GFP expression in transgenic chickens using a lentiviral vector
Authors: Chapman Susan C. , Lawson Aaron , MacArthur William C. , Wiese Russell J. , Loechel Robert H. , Burgos-Trinidad Maria , Wakefield John K. , Ramabhadran Ram , Mauch Teri Jo , Schoenwolf Gary C.
Published: February 2005

We report the first ubiquitous green fluorescent protein expression in chicks using a lentiviral vector approach, with eGFP under the control of the phosphoglycerol kinase promoter. Several demonstrations of germline transmission in chicks have been reported previously, using markers that produce tissue-specific, but not ubiquitous, expression. Using embryos sired by a heterozygous male, we demonstrate germline transmission in the embryonic tissue that expresses eGFP uniformly, and that can be used in tissue transplants and processed by in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry. Transgenic tissue is identifiable by both fluorescence microscopy and immunolabeling, resulting in a permanent marker identifying transgenic cells following processing of the tissue. Stable integration of the transgene has allowed breeding of homozygous males and females that will be used to produce transgenic embryos in 100% of eggs laid upon reaching sexual maturity. These results demonstrate that a transgenic approach in the chick model system is viable and useful even though a relatively long generation time is required. The transgenic chick model will benefit studies on embryonic development, as well as providing the pharmaceutical industry with an economical bioreactor.
Myocardin is sufficient and necessary for cardiac gene expression in Xenopus
Authors: Small Eric M. , Warkman Andrew S. , Wang Da-Zhi , Sutherland Lillian B. , Olson Eric N. , Krieg Paul A.
Published: February 2005

Myocardin is a cardiac- and smooth muscle-specific cofactor for the ubiquitous transcription factor serum response factor (SRF). Using gain-of-function approaches in the Xenopus embryo, we show that myocardin is sufficient to activate transcription of a wide range of cardiac and smooth muscle differentiation markers in non-muscle cell types. We also demonstrate that, for the myosin light chain 2 gene (MLC2), myocardin cooperates with the zinc-finger transcription factor Gata4 to activate expression. Inhibition of myocardin activity in Xenopus embryos using morpholino knockdown methods results in inhibition of cardiac development and the absence of expression of cardiac differentiation markers and severe disruption of cardiac morphological processes. We conclude that myocardin is an essential component of the regulatory pathway for myocardial differentiation.
Positioning of the midbrain-hindbrain boundary organizer through global posteriorization of the neuroectoderm mediated by Wnt8 signaling
Authors: Rhinn Muriel , Lun Klaus , Luz Marta , Werner Michaela , Brand Michael
Published: February 2005

The organizing center located at the midbrain-hindbrain boundary (MHB)patterns the midbrain and hindbrain primordia of the neural plate. Studies in several vertebrates showed that the interface between cells expressing Otx and Gbx transcription factors marks the location in the neural plate where the organizer forms, but it is unclear how this location is set up. Using mutant analyses and shield ablation experiments in zebrafish, we find that axial mesendoderm, as a candidate tissue, has only a minor role in positioning the MHB. Instead, the blastoderm margin of the gastrula embryo acts as a source of signal(s) involved in this process. We demonstrate that positioning of the MHB organizer is tightly linked to overall neuroectodermal posteriorization, and specifically depends on Wnt8 signaling emanating from lateral mesendodermal precursors. Wnt8 is required for the initial subdivision of the neuroectoderm,including onset of posterior gbx1 expression and establishment of the posterior border of otx2 expression. Cell transplantation experiments further show that Wnt8 signaling acts directly and non-cell-autonomously. Consistent with these findings, a GFP-Wnt8 fusion protein travels from donor cells through early neural plate tissue. Our findings argue that graded Wnt8 activity mediates overall neuroectodermal posteriorization and thus determines the location of the MHB organizer.
Does School Integration Generate Peer Effects? Evidence from Boston's Metco Program
Authors: Angrist Joshua D , Lang Kevin
Published: February 2005

The Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity (Metco) is a desegregation program that sends students from Boston schools to more affluent suburbs. Metco increases the number of blacks and reduces test scores in receiving districts. School-level data for Massachusetts and micro data from a large district show no impact of Metco on the scores of white non-Metco students. But the micro estimates show some evidence of an effect on minority third graders, especially girls. Instrumental variables estimates for third graders are imprecise but generally in line with ordinary least squares estimates. Given the localized nature of these results, we conclude that peer effects from Metco are modest and short lived.
Addiction and Cue-Triggered Decision Processes
Authors: Bernheim B. Douglas , Rangel Antonio
Published: February 2005

We propose a model of addiction based on three premises: (i) use among addicts is frequently a mistake; (ii) experience sensitizes an individual to environmental cues that trigger mistaken usage; (iii) addicts understand and manage their susceptibilities. We argue that these premises find support in evidence from psychology, neuroscience, and clinical practice. The model is tractable and generates a plausible mapping between behavior and the characteristics of the user, substance, and environment. It accounts for a number of important patterns associated with addiction, gives rise to a clear welfare standard, and has novel implications for policy.
A Group Rule—Utilitarian Approach to Voter Turnout: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Coate Stephen , Conlin Michael
Published: February 2005

This paper explores a group rule–utilitarian approach to understanding voter turnout, inspired by the theoretical work of John C. Harsanyi (1980) and Timothy J. Feddersen and Alvaro Sandroni (2002). It develops a model based on this approach and studies its performance in explaining turnout in Texas liquor referenda. The results are encouraging: the comparative static predictions of the model are broadly consistent with the data, and a structurally estimated version of the model yields reasonable coefficient estimates and fits the data well. The structurally estimated model also outperforms a simple expressive voting model.
International Protection of Intellectual Property
Authors: Grossman Gene M , Lai Edwin L.-C
Published: February 2005

We study the incentives that governments have to protect intellectual property in a trading world economy. We consider a world economy with ongoing innovation in two countries that differ in market size and in their capacity for innovation. After describing the determination of national patent policies in a noncooperative regime of patent protection, we ask, “Why is intellectual property better protected in the North than in the South?” We also study international patent agreements by deriving the properties of an efficient global regime of patent protection and asking whether harmonization of patent policies is necessary or sufficient for global efficiency.
Whole Blood and Red Blood Cell Manganese Reflected Signal Intensities of T1‐Weighted Magnetic Resonance Images better than Plasma Manganese in Liver Cirrhotics
Authors: Choi Younghee , Park Ji Kang , Park Neung Hwa , Shin Jung Woo , Yoo Cheol‐In , Lee Choong Ryeol , Lee Hun , Kim Hyo Kyung , Kim Sung‐Ryul , Jung Tae‐hum , Park Jungsun , Yoon Chung Sik , Kim Yangho
Published: February 2005

Whole Blood and Red Blood Cell Manganese Reflected Signal Intensities of T1‐Weighted Magnetic Resonance Images better than Plasma Manganese in Liver Cirrhotics: Younghee Choi, et al. Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, South Korea—We examined whole blood (MnB), red blood cell (MnRBC), plasma (MnP) and urinary Mn (MnU) concentrations in 22 liver cirrhotics and 10 healthy controls to evaluate Mn concentration in which a fraction of biological samples best reflects pallidal signal intensities (pallidal index; PI) on T1‐weighted magnetic resonance images (MRI) in liver cirrhotics. Increased signal intensity in the globus pallidus was observed in 18 (81.8%) of the 22 patients with liver cirrhosis. In a transplanted patient, increased pallidal signals also resolved as his liver function tests normalized after liver transplantation. There were significant correlations between MnB/MnRBC and PI (ρ=0.529, ρ=0.573, respectively) in liver cirrhotics, although no significant correlation was observed between MnP/MnU and PI. According to a multiple linear regression, MnB and MnRBC reflected the signal intensities of T1‐weighted MRI better than MnP or MnU.
Flow marks in injection molding of polypropylene and ethylene–propylene elastomer blends: Analysis of morphology and rheology
Authors: Patham Bhaskar , Papworth Paul , Jayaraman Krishnamurthy , Shu Chichang , Wolkowicz Michael D.
Published: February 2005

This paper reports an investigation of asynchronous flow marks on the surface of injection molded parts and short shots made from two different blends of polypropylene and ethylene–propylene random copolymer elastomers. Flow marks were observed on the surface with both blends; the spatial frequency of flow marks on the surface was greater in the blend B1, which also exhibited a greater contrast between the surface regions. The same blend was distinctly faster in the linear viscoelastic tests of shear creep recovery and shear viscosity growth. The degree of contrast between the flow‐mark regions and the out‐of‐flow‐mark regions was examined with a detailed analysis of SEM micrographs of the surface regions as well as the near wall regions from short shots. This revealed that the dispersed phase was highly stretched to cylindrical strands in the glossy surface regions of both blends and retracted in the dull regions to different extents in the two cases. A comparison of the particle size distributions and aspect ratio distributions in different regions established that rapid retraction of the suspended elastomer phase was the dominant cause of changes in particle shape between surface regions. Nonlinear shear creep and creep recovery curves of the two elastomer components showed that at a time of 1 s, the fractional strain recovery of the elastomer in B1 was much higher than that of the elastomer in B2. Hence, the nonlinear elastic recovery of the elastomer phase at short times is an important factor in flow mark formation with blends of polypropylene and olefinic elastomers. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 96: 423–434, 2005
Lipase‐catalyzed production of biodiesel from rice bran oil
Authors: Lai Chao‐Chin , Zullaikah Siti , Vali Shaik Ramjan , Ju Yi‐Hsu
Published: February 2005

Biodiesel has attracted considerable attention as an alternative fuel during the past decades. The main hurdle to the commercialization of biodiesel is the cost of the raw material. Use of an inexpensive raw material such as rice bran oil is an attractive option to lower the cost of biodiesel. Two commercially available immobilized lipases, Novozym 435 and IM 60, were employed as catalyst for the reaction of rice bran oil and methanol. Novozym 435 was found to be more effective in catalyzing the methanolysis of rice bran oil. Methanolysis of refined rice bran oil and fatty acids (derived from rice bran oil) catalyzed by Novozym 435 (5% based on oil weight) can reach a conversion of over 98% in 6 h and 1 h, respectively. Methanolysis of rice bran oil with a free fatty acid content higher than 18% resulted in lower conversions (<68%). A two‐step lipase‐catalyzed methanolysis of rice bran oil was developed for the efficient conversion of both free fatty acid and acylglycerides into fatty acid methyl ester. More than 98% conversion can be obtained in 4–6 h depending on the relative proportion of free fatty acid and acylglycerides in the rice bran oil. Inactivation of lipase by phospholipids and other minor components was observed during the methanolysis of crude rice bran oil. Simultaneous dewaxing/degumming proved to be efficient in removing phospholipids and other minor components that inhibit lipase activity from crude rice bran oil. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Study of the non‐covalent interaction between amyloid‐β‐peptide and melatonin using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Bazoti Fotini N. , Tsarbopoulos Anthony , Markides Karin E. , Bergquist Jonas
Published: February 2005

Oxidative stress and unregulated immune response are believed to play a key role in the processes inherent to Alzheimer's disease (AD). The fact that free radicals can result in neurodegeneration suggests that actions against reactive oxygen species may be beneficial in treating and preventing AD. In the light of the suggested link between oxidative stress and AD, it is proposed that antioxidants and, even more, endogenous antioxidants may offer a therapeutic regime for protection against the risk of this disease. For this reason, the formation of non‐covalent complexes between amyloid‐β‐peptide (Aβ) or its oxidized forms and melatonin was studied by quadrupole and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The stability of the non‐covalent complex was examined under several experimental conditions, such as orifice voltage, pH, presence of organic modifier, concentration and time. Two different digestion protocols combined with mass spectrometric analysis of the resulting peptide fragments were employed in order to locate the binding site of melatonin in Aβ. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ink‐Jet Microdispensing for the Formation of Gradients of Immobilised Enzyme Activity
Authors: Turcu Florin , Hartwich Gerhard , Schäfer Dominik , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2005

Summary: The integration of gradients of enzyme activity in microstructured biosensor arrays enables intrinsic on‐line quality control of biosensor performance. Multiple sensor elements with different compositions and hence varying responses for the same analyte are evaluated as a basis for improving data reliability. The formation of glucose oxidase/polymer microstructures using a piezo microdispenser and their examination by scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) are used to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach.

Optical microscope image of grids obtained by dispensing of 1 mg/mL GOx and 2 mg/mL Vinnapas® mixture.

magnified image

Optical microscope image of grids obtained by dispensing of 1 mg/mL GOx and 2 mg/mL Vinnapas® mixture.
Analysis, design, and construction of a broadband balun for coaxial‐to‐planar transmission lines
Authors: Chen Ye , Joines William T. , Chai Mei , Liu Qing H. , Carin Lawrence
Published: February 2005

For microwave signals within the 0.5 to 10.5 GHz range, we present an integrated broadband balun that carries signals from coaxial cable to microstrip to parallel‐plate line. We use this arrangement as the feed line for a broadband double‐sided antenna, and this antenna feed is presented as an application of the integrated balun. In addition, we devise a testing method for the balun, which is demonstrated. Through this testing method, the transmission, reflection, and radiation losses associated with the balun are readily determined. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 44: 501–504, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20679
Power pattern synthesis for antenna arrays with null constraints in the near‐field region
Authors: Vescovo Roberto
Published: February 2005

We describe an iterative procedure that, for a given antenna array, allows to determine a radiation pattern belonging to a prescribed mask while the radiated field vanishes in assigned points located in the near‐field region and close each other, so as to reduce the field in a neighborhood of them. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 44: 542–545, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.20692
Gene Delivery of Cu/Zn–Superoxide Dismutase Improves Graft Function After Transplantation of Fatty Livers in the Rat
Authors: Lehmann Thorsten G. , Wheeler Michael D. , Schwabe Robert F. , Connor Henry D. , Schoonhoven Robert , Bunzendahl Hartwig , Brenner David A. , Samulski Jude R. , Zhong Zhi , Thurman Ronald G.
Published: February 2005

Oxygen–derived free radicals play a central role in reperfusion injury after organ transplantation, and fatty livers are particularly susceptible. Endogenous radical scavengers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) degrade these radicals; however, SOD is destroyed rapidly when given exogenously. Therefore, an adenoviral vector encoding the Cu/Zn–SOD gene (Ad.SOD1) was used here to test the hypothesis that organ injury would be reduced and survival increased in a rat model of transplantation of fatty livers. Donors received chow diet (untreated), high–fat diet, or ethanol–containing high–fat diet. Some of the ethanol–fed donors were infected either with the gene lacZ encoding bacterial β–galactosidase (Ad. lacZ), or Ad.SOD1. After liver transplantation, SOD activity and protein expression in liver, survival, histopathology, release of transaminases, free radical adducts in bile, and activation of NF–κB, IκB kinase (IKK), Jun–N–terminal kinase (JNK), and TNFα were evaluated. Ad.SOD1 treatment increased survival dramatically, blunted transaminase release, and reduced necrosis and apoptosis significantly. Free radical adducts were increased two–fold in the ethanol group compared with untreated controls. Ad.SOD1 blunted this increase and reduced the activation of NF–κB. However, release of TNFα was not affected. Ad.SOD1 also blunted JNK activity after transplantation. This study shows that gene therapy with Ad.SOD1 protects marginal livers from failure after transplantation because of decreased oxygen radical production. Genetic modification of fatty livers using viral vectors represents a new approach to protect marginal grafts against primary nonfunction.
Continuity in symmetry and in distinguishability of states: The symmetry numbers of nonrigid molecules
Authors: Breuer Jonathan , Avnir David
Published: February 2005

We establish a connection between the concept of distinguishability of quantum states and the concept of continuity in geometric symmetry. For this purpose, we employ the continuous symmetry measure and the nuclear wave functions of a molecule, and evaluate the physical effects of deviation from geometric symmetry. We apply this tool in presenting a unified approach to assigning symmetry numbers to rigid and nonrigid molecules, and readdress, as a specific example, the evaluation of the temperature dependence of the entropy of cyclobutane and cyclohexane. We believe we show that the concept of continuity in geometric symmetry provides a more natural and practical approach to the inherent link between symmetry and entropy, compared with the classical approach.
Electrostatic potential perturbation at the polycrystalline Si∕HfO2 interface
Authors: Afanas’ev V. V. , Stesmans A. , Pantisano L. , Chen P. J.
Published: February 2005

Comparison between potential barriers at the interfaces of polycrystalline Si with SiO2, SiO2∕HfO2, HfO2, and HfO2∕SiNx insulators indicates substantial perturbation of the image-force barrier shape at the Hf-containing interfaces. The internal photoemission of electrons suggests that Hf introduces charged centers with signs depending on the silicon doping type. In addition, at the interfaces of polycrystalline Si with HfO2 the barrier height is reduced by 0.2eV as compared to the (100)Si case by an interface dipole layer.
Charge superselection sectors for QCD on the lattice
Authors: Kijowski J. , Rudolph G.
Published: February 2005

We study quantum chromodynamics (QCD) on a finite lattice Λ in the Hamiltonian approach. First, we present the field algebra AΛ as comprising a gluonic part, with basic building block being the crossed product C*-algebra C(G)⊗αG, and a fermionic (CAR-algebra) part generated by the quark fields. By classical arguments, AΛ has a unique (up to unitary equivalence) irreducible representation. Next, the algebra OΛi of internal observables is defined as the algebra of gauge invariant fields, satisfying the Gauss law. In order to take into account correlations of field degrees of freedom inside Λ with the “rest of the world,” we must extend OΛi by tensorizing with the algebra of external gauge invariant operators. This way we construct the full observable algebra OΛ. It is proved that its irreducible representations are labelled by Z3-valued boundary flux distributions. Then, it is shown that there exist unitary operators (charge carrying fields), which intertwine between irreducible sectors leading to a classification of irreducible representations in terms of the Z3-valued global boundary flux. By the global Gauss law, these three inequivalent charge superselection sectors can be labeled in terms of the global color charge (triality) carried by quark fields. Finally, OΛ is discussed in terms of generators and relations.
Antiangiogenic Steroids in Human Cancer Therapy
Authors: Pietras Richard J. , Weinberg Olga K.
Published: February 2005

Despite advances in the early detection of tumors and in the use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery for disease management, the worldwide mortality from human cancer remains unacceptably high. The treatment of cancer may benefit from the introduction of novel therapies derived from natural products. Natural products have served to provide a basis for many of the pharmaceutical agents in current use in cancer therapy. Emerging research indicates that progressive growth and spread of many solid tumors depends, in part, on the formation of an adequate blood supply, and this process of tumor‐associated angiogenesis is reported to have prognostic significance in several human cancers. This review focuses on the potential application in antitumor therapy of naturally‐occurring steroids that target tumor‐associated angiogenesis. Squalamine, a 7,24 dihydroxylated 24‐sulfated cholestane steroid conjugated to a spermidine at position C‐3, is known to have strong antiangiogenic activity in vitro, and it significantly disrupts tumor proliferation and progression in laboratory studies. Work on the interactions of squalamine with vascular endothelial cells indicate that it binds with cell membranes, inhibits the membrane Na+/H+ exchanger and may further function as a calmodulin chaperone. These primary actions appear to promote inhibition of several vital steps in angiogenesis, such as blockade of mitogen‐induced actin polymerization, cell–cell adhesion and cell migration, leading to suppression of endothelial cell proliferation. Preclinical studies with squalamine have shown additive benefits in tumor growth delay when squalamine is combined with cisplatin, paclitaxel, cyclophosphamide, genistein or radiation therapy. This compound has also been assessed in early phase clinical trials in cancer; squalamine was found to exhibit little systemic toxicity and was generally well tolerated by treated patients with various solid tumor malignancies, including ovarian, non‐small cell lung and breast cancers. Clinical trials with squalamine alone or combined with standard chemotherapies or other biologic therapies, including antiangiogenic agents, should be considered for selected cancer patients, and further study of the mechanism of action and bioactivity of squalamine is warranted.
Estimation of the repeatability and reproducibility of three diagnostic tests for infectious salmon anaemia virus
Authors: Nérette P , Dohoo I , Hammell L , Gagné N , Barbash P , MacLean S , Yason C
Published: February 2005

Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), virus isolation (VI) and indirect fluorescent antibody tests (IFAT) are three assays currently used by the salmon industry to identify fish infected with infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV). However, no data are available on the repeatability (within‐laboratory consistency) and reproducibility (between‐laboratory consistency) of these assays and very limited information is available on the effect of freezing samples on test results. In order to evaluate these assays, five laboratories participated in a blinded study of 400 kidney samples representing four populations of farmed Atlantic salmon with different prevalence of ISAV. Each laboratory used its own testing protocols. Repeatability and reproducibility were evaluated using kappa as the measure of agreement. The effect of freezing was evaluated using the McNemar test. Freezing did not affect VI but improved the sensitivity of RT‐PCR. The repeatability and reproducibility of VI was almost perfect. There was a substantial difference in repeatability of RT‐PCR among the three laboratories with kappa ranging from 0.5 to 0.96. The repeatability for RT‐PCR was generally low. The repeatability of IFAT was moderate when the results were analysed using 1+ and above as a positive result. The results of the study show the need to standardize the protocol and interpretation of RT‐PCR.