bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Subcellular Localization Informative for Modeling Protein‐Protein Interaction Signal?
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Zhao Hongyu , Tan Jun , Luo Dajie , Yu Weichuan , Harner E. James , Shih Weichung Joe
Published: March 2008

Statistical methods have been intensively applied in genomic signal processing
(Dougherty et al. 2005). For budding yeast Saccharomyces
cerevisiae with around 6000 proteins, genome‐wide
protein‐protein‐interaction (PPI) (Fromont‐Racine et al. 2000, Ito
et al. 2001, Newman et al. 2000, and Uetz et al. 2000 among
others) and protein subcellular localization (PSL) (Huh et al.
2003) data recently became available and for the latter the
presence of 4152 proteins is experimentally tested in each of the
22 subcellular compartments. Recent work shows that multiple
biological sources are helpful for both PSL and PPI predictions,
and this paper studies statistical feasibility of modeling PPI
from PSL since PSLs may play different marginal or joint roles in
the complex regulatory network. However, our results indicate that
PSL may be controversial for this purpose as an independent
source.
Microfluidic Approach for the Synthesis of Micro- or Nanosized Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Particles
Authors: Choi Kyung M.
Published: March 2008

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) have specific molecular recognition sites for chemical detection.High affinity receptors can increase the sensitivity of sensors/devices. The synthesis of micro- or nanosized MIP's particles is desirable to improve the sensitivity since MIP's particle sizes are inversely proportional to the affinity between receptors and template molecules. To synthesize nano- or microsized MIPs particles, we demonstrate here a novel microfluidic approach, which presents continuous and uniform MIP's particle generation.
Design of CMOS Tunable Image-Rejection Low-Noise Amplifier with Active Inductor
Authors: Chun Lee Ler , bin A'ain Abu Khari , Kordesch Albert Victor
Published: March 2008

A fully integrated CMOS tunable image-rejection low-noise amplifier (IRLNA) has been designed using Silterra's industry standard 0.18 μm RF CMOS process. The notch filter is designed using an active inductor. Measurement results show that the notch filter designed using active inductor contributes additional 1.19 dB to the noise figure of the low-noise amplifier (LNA). A better result is possible if the active inductor is optimized. Since active inductors require less die area, the die area occupied by the IRLNA is not significantly different from a conventional LNA, which was designed for comparison. The proposed IRLNA exhibits S21 of 11.8 dB, S11 of −17.8 dB, S22 of −10.7 dB, and input 1 dB compression point of −12 dBm at 3 GHz
Dynamics and Stability of Stepped Gun‐Barrels with Moving Bullets
Authors: Tawfik Mohammad
Published: March 2008

The stability of an Euler‐Bernoulli beam under the effect of a moving projectile will be
reintroduced using simple eigenvalue analysis of a finite element model. The eigenvalues of the beam change with the mass, speed, and position of the projectile, thus, the eigenvalues are evaluated for the system with different speeds and masses at different positions until the lowest eigenvalue reaches zero indicating the instability occurrence. Then a map for the stability region may be obtained for different boundary conditions. Then the dynamics of the beam will be investigated using the Newmark algorithm at different values of speed and mass ratios. Finally, the effect of using stepped barrels on the stability and the dynamics is going to be investigated. It is concluded that the technique used to predict the stability boundaries is simple, accurate, and reliable, the mass of the barrel on the dynamics of the problem cannot be ignored, and that using the stepped barrels, with small increase in the diameter, enhances the stability and the dynamics of the barrel.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Tetra- and Octasubstituted Phosphorous Oxide Triazatetrabenzcorrole Photosensitizers
Authors: Antunes Edith M. , Nyokong Tebello
Published: March 2008

The synthesis of phosphorous oxide triazatetrabenzcorroles (TBC) tetra- (9, 11) or octa- (13)
substituted on the ring with halogenated functional groups is reported. The complexes are not aggregated
in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and show solubility in solvents such as pyridine. The Q
band absorption spectra
of the complexes are red-shifted compared to unsubstituted PTBC. The latter complex shows a large triplet
lifetime (1.7 milliseconds), higher than for MPc derivatives. The chlorinated derivatives show good triplet
yields (ΦT∼ 0.46 and 0.36) and relatively long lifetimes (256 and 452 microseconds), respectively, for 11 and 13.
BOLD‐Perfusion Coupling during Monocular and Binocular Stimulation
Authors: Gauthier Claudine , Hoge Richard D.
Published: March 2008

Previous studies have suggested that during selective activation of a subset of the zones comprising a columnar system in visual cortex, perfusion increases uniformly in all columns of the system, while increases in oxidative metabolism occur predominantly in the activated columns. This could lead to disproportionately large blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) signal increases for a given flow increase during monocular (relative to binocular) stimulation, due to contributions from columns which undergo large increases in perfusion with little or no change in oxidative metabolism. In the present study, we sought to test this hypothesis by measuring BOLD‐perfusion coupling ratios in spatially averaged signals over V1 during monocular and binocular visual stimulation. It was found that, although withholding input to one eye resulted in statistically significant decreases in BOLD and perfusion signals in primary visual cortex, the ratio between BOLD and perfusion increases did not change significantly. These results do not support a gross mismatch between spatial patterns of flow and metabolism response during monocular stimulation.
On the Adjoint of a Strongly Continuous Semigroup
Authors: Bárcenas Diómedes , Mármol Luis Gerardo
Published: March 2008

Using some techniques from vector integration,
we prove the weak measurability of the adjoint of strongly
continuous semigroups which factor through Banach spaces
without isomorphic copy of
l1;
we also prove the strong continuity away from zero of the
adjoint if the semigroup factors through Grothendieck spaces.
These results are used, in particular, to characterize the
space of strong continuity of
,
which, in addition, is also characterized for abstract
L‐ and M‐spaces. As a
corollary, it is proven that abstract L‐spaces with no copy of
l1
are finite‐dimensional.
Effects of Oral Glucose Load on Endothelial Function and on Insulin and Glucose Fluctuations in Healthy Individuals
Authors: Major-Pedersen A. , Ihlemann N. , Hermann T. S. , Christiansen B. , Dominguez H. , Kveiborg B. , Nielsen D. B. , Svendsen O. L. , Køber L. , Torp-Pedersen C.
Published: March 2008

Background/aims. Postprandial hyperglycemia, an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is accompanied by endothelial dysfunction. We studied the effect of oral glucose load on insulin and glucose fluctuations, and on postprandial endothelial function in healthy individuals in order to better understand and cope with the postprandial state in insulin resistant individuals. Methods. We assessed post‐oral glucose load endothelial function (flow mediated dilation), plasma insulin, and blood glucose in 9 healthy subjects. Results. The largest increases in delta FMD values (fasting FMD value subtracted from postprandial FMD value) occurred at 3 hours after both glucose or placebo load, respectively: 4.80 ± 1.41 (P = .009) and 2.34 ± 1.47 (P = .15). Glucose and insulin
concentrations achieved maximum peaks at one hour post‐glucose
load. Conclusion. Oral glucose load does not induce
endothelial dysfunction in healthy individuals with mean insulin
and glucose values of 5.6 mmol/L and 27.2 mmol/L,
respectively, 2 hours after glucose load.
The Role of Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptors in the Development and Physiology of Gametes and Preimplantation Embryos
Authors: Huang Jaou-Chen
Published: March 2008

In several species, a family of nuclear receptors, the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) composed of three isotypes, is expressed in somatic cells and germ cells of the ovary as well as the testis. Invalidation of these receptors in mice or stimulation of these receptors in vivo or in vitro showed that each receptor has physiological roles in the gamete maturation or the embryo development. In addition, synthetic PPARγ ligands are recently used to induce ovulation in women with polycystic ovary disease. These results reveal the positive actions of PPAR in reproduction. On the other hand, xenobiotics molecules (in herbicides, plasticizers, or components of personal care products), capable of activating PPAR, may disrupt normal PPAR functions in the ovary or the testis and have consequences on the quality of the gametes and the embryos. Despite the recent data obtained on the biological actions of PPARs in reproduction, relatively little is known about PPARs in gametes and embryos. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the expression and the function of PPARs as well as their partners, retinoid X receptors (RXRs), in germ cells and preimplantation embryos. The effects of natural and synthetic PPAR ligands will also be discussed from the perspectives of reproductive toxicology and assisted reproductive technology.
Weak and Strong Convergence Theorems for Nonexpansive Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Zhao Jing , He Songnian , Su Yongfu
Published: March 2008

The purpose of this paper is to introduce two implicit iteration schemes for approximating fixed points of nonexpansive mapping "Equation missing" and a finite family of nonexpansive mappings "Equation missing", respectively, in Banach spaces and to prove weak and strong convergence theorems. The results presented in this paper improve and extend the corresponding ones of H.-K. Xu and R. Ori, 2001, Z. Opial, 1967, and others.
Constrained and Unconstrained Optimization Formulations for Structural Elements in Unilateral Contact with an Elastic Foundation
Authors: Silveira Ricardo A. M. , Pereira Wellington L. A. , Gonçalves Paulo B.
Published: March 2008

In this work, two numerical methodologies are proposed for the solution of unilateral contact problems between a structural member (beam or arch) and an elastic foundation. In the first approach, the finite element method is used to discretize the structure and elastic foundation and the contact problem is formulated as a constrained optimization problem. Only the original variables of the problem are used, subjected to inequality constraints, and the relevant equations are written as a linear complementary problem (LCP). The second approach is based on the Ritz method, where the coordinates defining the limits of the contact regions are considered as additional variables of the problem. The contact problem here is treated as an unconstrained optimum design problem. These proposed methodologies are then tested and compared using results from specific problems involving structures under unilateral contact constraints.
Focal Point Theory Models for Dissecting Dynamic Duality Problems of Microbial Infections
Authors: Huang S.-H. , Zhou W. , Jong A.
Published: March 2008

Extending along the dynamic continuum from conflict to cooperation, microbial infections always involve symbiosis (Sym) and pathogenesis (Pat). There exists a dynamic Sym‐Pat duality (DSPD) in microbial infection that is the most fundamental problem in infectomics. DSPD is encoded by the genomes of both the microbes and their hosts. Three focal point (FP) theory‐based game models (pure cooperative, dilemma, and pure conflict) are proposed for resolving those problems. Our health is associated with the dynamic interactions of three microbial communities (nonpathogenic microbiota (NP) (Cooperation), conditional pathogens (CP) (Dilemma), and unconditional pathogens (UP) (Conflict)) with the hosts at different health statuses. Sym and Pat can be quantitated by measuring symbiotic index (SI), which is quantitative fitness for the symbiotic partnership, and pathogenic index (PI), which is quantitative damage to the symbiotic partnership, respectively. Symbiotic point (SP), which bears analogy to FP, is a function of SI and PI. SP‐converting and specific pathogen‐targeting strategies can be used for the rational control of microbial infections.
Regulation of Lymphocyte Function by PPARγ: Relevance to Thyroid Eye Disease‐Related Inflammation
Authors: Lehmann G. M. , Garcia-Bates T. M. , Smith T. J. , Feldon S. E. , Phipps R. P.
Published: March 2008

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is an autoimmune condition in which intense inflammation leads to orbital tissue remodeling, including the accumulation of extracellular macromolecules and fat. Disease progression depends upon interactions between lymphocytes and orbital fibroblasts. These cells engage in a cycle of reciprocal activation which produces the tissue characteristics of TED. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPARγ) may play divergent roles in this process, both attenuating and promoting disease progression. PPARγ has anti‐inflammatory activity, suggesting that it could interrupt intercellular communication. However, PPARγ activation is also critical to adipogenesis, making it a potential culprit in the pathological fat accumulation associated with TED. This review explores the role of PPARγ in TED, as it pertains to crosstalk between lymphocytes and fibroblasts and the development of therapeutics targeting cell‐cell interactions mediated through this signaling pathway.
A Neural Net Associative Memory for Real-Time Applications
Authors: Heileman Gregory L. , Papadourakis George M. , Georgiopoulos Michael
Published: March 2008

A parallel hardware implementation of the associative memory neural network introduced by Hopfield is described. The design utilizes the Geometric Arithmetic Parallel Processor (GAPP), a commercially available single-chip VLSI general-purpose array processor consisting of 72 processing elements. The ability to cascade these chips allows large arrays of processors to be easily constructed and used to implement the Hopfield network. The memory requirements and processing times of such arrays are analyzed based on the number of nodes in the network and the number of exemplar patterns. Compared with other digital implementations, this design yields significant improvements in runtime performance and offers the capability of using large neural network associative memories in real-time applications.
Temporal Differentiation and Violation of Time-Reversal Invariance in Neurocomputation of Visual Information
Authors: Tang D. S. , Menon V.
Published: March 2008

Information-theoretic techniques have been employed to study the time-dependent connection strength of a three-layer feedforward neural network. The analysis shows (1) there is a natural emergence of time-dependent receptive field that performs temporal differentiation and (2) the result is shown to be a consequence of a mechanism based on violation of the time-reversal invariance in the visual information processing system. Both analytic and numerical studies are presented.
The Effects of Precision Constraints in a Backpropagation Learning Network
Authors: Hollis Paul W. , Harper John S. , Paulos John J.
Published: March 2008

This paper presents a study of precision constraints imposed by a hybrid chip architecture with analog neurons and digital backpropagation calculations. Conversions between the analog and digital domains and weight storage restrictions impose precision limits on both analog and digital calculations. It is shown through simulations that a learning system of this nature can be implemented in spite of limited resolution in the analog circuits and using fixed point arithmetic to implement the backpropagation algorithm.
Rules and Variables in Neural Nets
Authors: Ajjanagadde Venkat , Shastri Lokendra
Published: March 2008

A fundamental problem that must be addressed by connectionism is that of creating and representing dynamic structures (Feldman 1982; von der Malsburg 1985). In the context of reasoning with systematic and abstract knowledge, this problem takes the form of the variable binding problem. We describe a biologically plausible solution to this problem and outline how a knowledge representation and reasoning system can use this solution to perform a class of predictive inferences with extreme efficiency. The proposed system solves the variable binding problem by propagating rhythmic patterns of activity wherein dynamic bindings are represented as the synchronous firing of appropriate nodes.
Contrastive Learning and Neural Oscillations
Authors: Baldi Pierre , Pineda Fernando
Published: March 2008

The concept of Contrastive Learning (CL) is developed as a family of possible learning algorithms for neural networks. CL is an extension of Deterministic Boltzmann Machines to more general dynamical systems. During learning, the network oscillates between two phases. One phase has a teacher signal and one phase has no teacher signal. The weights are updated using a learning rule that corresponds to gradient descent on a contrast function that measures the discrepancy between the free network and the network with a teacher signal. The CL approach provides a general unified framework for developing new learning algorithms. It also shows that many different types of clamping and teacher signals are possible. Several examples are given and an analysis of the landscape of the contrast function is proposed with some relevant predictions for the CL curves. An approach that may be suitable for collective analog implementations is described. Simulation results and possible extensions are briefly discussed together with a new conjecture regarding the function of certain oscillations in the brain. In the appendix, we also examine two extensions of contrastive learning to time-dependent trajectories.
An Exponential Response Neural Net
Authors: Geva Shlomo , Sitte Joaquin
Published: March 2008

By using artificial neurons with exponential transfer functions one can design perfect autoassociative and heteroassociative memory networks, with virtually unlimited storage capacity, for real or binary valued input and output. The autoassociative network has two layers: input and memory, with feedback between the two. The exponential response neurons are in the memory layer. By adding an encoding layer of conventional neurons the network becomes a heteroassociator and classifier. Because for real valued input vectors the dot-product with the weight vector is no longer a measure for similarity, we also consider a euclidean distance based neuron excitation and present Lyapunov functions for both cases. The network has energy minima corresponding only to stored prototype vectors. The exponential neurons make it simpler to build fast adaptive learning directly into classification networks that map real valued input to any class structure at its output.
Phase Coupling in Simulated Chains of Coupled Oscillators Representing the Lamprey Spinal Cord
Authors: Williams Thelma L.
Published: March 2008

Previous application of a mathematical theory of chains of coupled oscillators to the results of experiments on the lamprey spinal cord led to conclusions about the mechanisms of intersegmental coordination in the lamprey. The theory provides no direct link, however, to electrophysiological data obtained at the cellular level, nor are the details of the neuronal circuitry in the lamprey known. In this paper, a variant of the theory is developed for which the relevant variables can potentially be measured. This theory will be applied to measurements on simulated oscillators, based on a network that has been postulated to constitute the basic circuitry of the segmental oscillator in the lamprey. A linear approximation to the equations is derived, and it will be shown that the behavior of simulated chains of these oscillators obeys the predictions of this approximation.
Maximum Entropy and Learning Theory
Authors: Bilbro Griff L. , Bout David E. Van den
Published: March 2008

We derive the learning theory recently reported by Tishby, Levin, and Solla (TLS) directly from the principle of maximum entropy instead of statistical mechanics. The theory generally applies to any problem of modeling data. We analyze an elementary example for which we find the predictions consistent with intuition and conventional statistical results and we numerically examine the more realistic problem of training a competitive net to learn a one-dimensional probability density from samples. The TLS theory is useful for predicting average training behavior.
Resonant Raman and Micro-Raman Scattering from Si Matrix with Unburied β-FeSi2 Nanolayers
Authors: Marinova M. , Baleva M. , Zlateva G.
Published: March 2008

Samples, representing Si matrix with nanolayers of the semiconducting β-FeSi2 silicide are studied by Raman scattering. The unpolarized Raman spectra of the samples are measured in two different configurations. It is found that the characteristic β-FeSi2
Raman modes are seen in the spectra, taken at incident angle of about 45°, while only comparatively intensive broad feature is detected in a back-scattering geometry. The difference in the spectra is interpreted with the appearance of surface polariton modes of the optical phonons in the
nanosized layers in near back-scattering geometry. The resonant Raman scattering is investigated at incident light angle of about 45° and the energies of the interband transitions in the investigated energy range are determined. It is known that the resonant Raman scattering appears to
be even more precise method for the determination of the interband transitions energies than the modulation spectroscopy. Thus we claim that the energies determined here are firstly determined with such a precision.
Evaluation of the Radiative Recombination Mechanism in Si Nanocrystals Embedded in Silica Matrix
Authors: Righini Marcofabio , Gnoli Andrea , Razzari Luca , Serincan Ugur , Turan Rasit
Published: March 2008

We report measurements of the temperature dependence of photoluminescence (PL) life-time and efficiency of Si nanocrystals (Si-Nc) embedded in silica matrix. We use a practical technique based on lock-in acquisition that allows us to simultaneously evaluate, at each emission-energy,
intensity and decay-time of the detected signal. Samples are prepared by Silicon-ion implantation in a SiO2 layer followed by thermal annealing. The implantation dose of Si ions ranges between 2 × 1016 cm−2 and 2 × 1017 cm−2.
Intensity of Si-Nc PL shows the characteristic rising by increasing the temperature up to ∼100 K followed by a flattening or a weak reduction up to room temperature. This behaviour reveals a population of radiative states built up by a thermally activated process. Similarly, the measured
PL decay-rate is not constant with temperature but shows evidence of a thermal activation. By measuring on different samples the activation energies Ea involved in the temperature dependence of PL intensity and decay time we verify that in all these processes Ea
is a decreasing function of implantation dose (i.e., of crystallite size). This result is consistent with models connecting radiative recombination to excitons confined inside Si-Nc, in seeming contrast with the common attribution of PL of non-passivated Si-Nc to the recombination from surface/interface
states. To verify the consistency of this statement, we have compared our experimental data with the predictions of quantum confinement theory obtaining an excellent agreement.
Structural and Optical Properties of Ge Nanocrystals Embedded in Al2O3
Authors: Caldelas P. , Rolo A. G. , Chahboun A. , Foss S. , Levichev S. , Finstad T. G. , Gomes M. J. M. , Conde O.
Published: March 2008

Ge nanocrystals (NCs) embedded in aluminum oxide were grown by RF-magnetron sputtering. Raman, high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), selected area diffraction (SAD), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques confirmed good cristallinity of the NCs from samples annealed
at 800 °C. The average NC size was estimated to be around 7 nm. Photoluminescence (PL) measurements show an emission related to the NCs. The temperature dependence of the PL confirms the confinement phenomenon in the Ge NCs.
Vacuum Arc Deposition of Nanostructured Multilayer Coatings for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Vladescu A. , Kiss A. , Braic M. , Cotrut C. M. , Drob P. , Balaceanu M. , Vasilescu C. , Braic V.
Published: March 2008

In recent years, the smart materials have attracted much attention due to their unusual properties such as shape memory effect and pseudoelasticity, being widely used for biomedical implants. These materials contain certain amounts of nickel, titanium and others which are not adequate
for surgical implants and prosthesis. In the work reported here, two types of nonostructured multilayer coatings (TiN/ZrN, ZrN/Zr) used to prevent the ions release from shape memory alloys were investigated. For comparison, the TiN and ZrN monolayers were also examined. The films were deposited
onto nickel-titanium based alloy (Ti-Ni-Nb) and Ni substrates by vacuum arc deposition technique under various deposition conditions. The concentrations of dissolved ions in Ringer solution for uncoated and coated Ni samples were determined to examine the benefic barrier effect of these coatings
for ions release from shape memory alloys. In order to have a more complete characterization of the investigated coatings, other properties such as elemental and phase composition, morphology, texture, microhardness, and adhesion were studied. For all coatings, the concentrations of dissolved
ions were lower that those measured in the case of the uncoated specimens. The nanostructured multilayer films exhibited the best mechanical and anticorrosive properties.
Security and Smart Power
Authors: Nye Joseph S.
Published: March 2008

Reconciling values and interests is a long-standing problem in American foreign policy. Amitai Etzioni's Security First is a welcome corrective to the truncated Wilsonianism of recent neo-conservative doctrines. His proposed combination of hard and soft power deals primarily with two of the major challenges that America faces: nuclear spread and Islamist extremism. His approach says less about one traditional challenge—the rise of China—and two new ones—an energy crisis or an ecological breakdown (such as pandemics or dramatic climate change). And even in regard to the first two issues, some argue that the doctrine of containment remains a viable alternative.
The Costs of Reneging
Authors: Gibler Douglas M.
Published: March 2008

Reputations are supposed to matter. Decision makers consistently refer to reputations for resolve, and international relations theories confirm the value of being able to credibly signal intentions during times of crisis. However, empirical support for the effects of reputation has been lacking. Problems of strategic selection have hampered previous quantitative tests, and the qualitative literature provides scant support for the concept in individual crises. In this article, the author shifts the focus from crisis behavior to alliance commitments and examines the effects that opportunities to uphold previous commitments have on future alliance commitments and conflicts. The results demonstrate that alliance reputations do affect both alliance formation and dispute behavior.
Implicit Theories of Creativity Across Cultures
Authors: Paletz Susannah B.F. , Kaiping Peng
Published: March 2008

One potential problem for creativity theory is whether both novelty and appropriateness are equally valid dimensions across cultures. Taking an implicit theory approach, the authors surveyed more than 400 students from Japan, China, and the United States. Using repeated measures scenarios of cooking and textbook products, novelty was found to be important across the three countries for evaluations of creativity. However, the Chinese were more swayed than were the Americans by the novelty manipulation in terms of how much they desired the products. Appropriateness was more important for Americans and Japanese for evaluations of creativity and desire for products. Both novelty and appropriateness had large effects. Rather than relying on assumed country variations, the authors argue that cross-cultural research be used to understand the nature of creativity.
Location Matters: Where We Have Been and Where We Might Go in Agglomeration Research
Authors: McCann Brian T. , Folta Timothy B.
Published: March 2008

Agglomeration research investigates the geographic concentration of economic activity. The authors explicate the various explanations for this phenomenon while focusing on a particular class of agglomerations—the spatial concentrations of related firms . The authors review theoretical explanations and empirical evidence around the performance implications of clustering in proximity to related firms. Moreover, they motivate future research by identifying challenges facing researchers in this area and discuss eight distinct groups of research questions with the potential to contribute to the continuing growth of this important research area.
The Shape of Ideas Production Function in Transition and Developing Economies: Evidence from China
Authors: Long Gen Ying
Published: March 2008

This article contributes to the empirical understanding of ideas production in transition and developing economies from an international knowledge spillover perspective. Based on an extended form of the ideas production function of a nonscale endogenous growth model, the article estimates the shape of the Chinese ideas production function using a time-series pattern of Chinese patenting. While the empirical results corroborate recent findings on the shape of the ideas production function for Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development economies, the estimate also captures the positive evidence of foreign knowledge spillovers in the domestic production of new-to-China ideas. This evidence is important since it has empirically proved the possibility for the technological latecomer to grow depending on spillovers of the pioneer research and development (R&D). It also implies that Chinese R&D productivity growth depends on the simultaneous expansion of the domestic R&D-producing sector as well as the foreign knowledge stock in the Chinese market.
A Prospective Study of Injury Patterns in High School Pole Vaulters
Authors: Rebella Gregory S. , Edwards Jamie O. , Greene Joseph J. , Husen Mark T. , Brousseau David C.
Published: March 2008

Background

The pole vault is a track and field event that has witnessed a large increase in participants during the past 5 years. Currently there are no prospective studies that have evaluated injury patterns in pole vaulters.

Objectives

To determine the injury rate and to describe injury patterns in high school pole vaulters.

Study Design

Descriptive epidemiological study.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of 140 Wisconsin high school athletes who participated in pole vaulting during the 2005 and 2006 track and field seasons. Baseline athlete information was obtained at the beginning of each season. When an injury occurred, an injury report form was completed to document diagnosis and circumstances of the incident. Injury rates were expressed as injuries per 100 athletes per season as well as injuries per 1000 athletic exposures. Risk factors were analyzed by calculating relative risks for baseline athlete variables.

Results

The injury rates were 26.4 injuries per 100 athletes per season (95% confidence interval, 18.6–36.4) and 7.1 injuries per 1000 athletic exposures (95% confidence interval, 5.0–9.8). Trauma to the lower extremities accounted for 71.5% of injuries. The most common injury types were ligament sprains (31.6%). Landing incorrectly was the most frequent mechanism of injury (26.3%). A history of pole-vault injury was associated With increased risk of injury (relative risk, 2.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.4–4.1).

Conclusion

Injuries are common in young vaulters. Injury mechanisms indicate that many could be avoided by using proper technique, particularly during the landing phase. Coaches should focus on vaulters with prior injuries to identify risky behavior and to help correct poor technique.
The Effects of Generalized Joint Laxity on Risk of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Young Female Athletes
Authors: Myer Gregory D. , Ford Kevin R. , Paterno Mark V. , Nick Todd G. , Hewett Timothy E.
Published: March 2008

Background

Women who participate in high-risk sports suffer anterior cruciate ligament injury at a 4- to 6-fold greater rate than men.

Purpose

To prospectively determine if female athletes with decreased passive knee joint restraint (greater joint laxity) and greater side-to-side differences in knee laxity would be at increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Study Design

Case control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

From 1558 female soccer and basketball players who were prospectively screened, 19 went on to tear their anterior cruciate ligaments. Four height- and mass-matched control subjects were selected from the uninjured screened athletes for comparison with each of the 19 injured subjects, making a total of 95 subjects (19 injured; 76 uninjured). Generalized joint-laxity tests and anterior-posterior tibiofemoral translation were quantified using the CompuKT knee arthrometer. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to determine predictors of anterior cruciate ligament injury status from recorded laxity measures.

Results

A multivariable logistic regression model (chi-square = 18.6; P = .002) used the independent variables laxity measures of knee hyperextension ( P = .02), wrist and thumb to forearm opposition ( P = .80), fifth-finger hyperextension > 90° ( P = .71), side-to-side differences in anterior-posterior tibiofemoral translation ( P = .002), and prior knee injury ( P = .22) to predict anterior cruciate ligament-injury status. The validated C statistic, or validated area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, was 0.72. For every 1.3-mm increase in side-to-side differences in anterior-posterior knee displacement, the odds of anterior cruciate ligament–injured status increased 4-fold (95% confidence interval, 1.68–9.69). A positive measure of knee hyperextension increased the odds of anterior cruciate ligament-injured status 5-fold (95% confidence interval, 1.24–18.44).

Conclusion

The current results indicate that increased knee-laxity measures may contribute to increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury. The methods to quantify knee joint laxity in this report may be used in conjunction with measures of neuromuscular control of the knee joint to identify high-risk female athletes with high accuracy. Once high-risk female athletes are identified, they may be targeted to the appropriate interventions to reduce injury risk.
Can Platelet-Rich Plasma Enhance Tendon Repair?
Authors: de Mos Marieke , van der Windt Anna E. , Jahr Holger , van Schie Hans T. M. , Weinans Harrie , Verhaar Jan A. N. , van Osch Gerjo J. V. M.
Published: March 2008

Background

Autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) application appears to improve tendon healing in traumatic tendon injuries, but basic knowledge of how PRP promotes tendon repair is needed.

Hypothesis

Platelet-rich plasma has a positive effect on cell proliferation and collagen production and induces the production of matrix-degrading enzymes and endogenous growth factors by human tenocytes.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Human tenocytes were cultured 14 days in 2% fetal calf serum medium complemented with 0%, 10%, or 20% vol/vol platelet-rich clot releasate ([PRCR] the active releasate of PRP) or platelet-poor clot releasate (PPCR). At day 4,7, and 14, cell amount, total collagen, and gene expression of collagen Iα1 (COL1) and Mod (COL3), matrix metalloproteinases ([MMPs] MMP1, MMP3, and MMP13), vascular endothelial-derived growth factor (VEGF)-A, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 were analyzed.

Results

Platelet numbers in PRP increased to 2.55 times baseline. Growth-factor concentrations of VEGF and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB were higher in PRCR than PPCR. Both PRCR and PPCR increased cell number and total collagen, whereas they decreased gene expression of COL1 and COL3 without affecting the COL3/COL1 ratio. PRCR, but not PPCR, showed upregulation of MMP1 and MMP3 expression. Matrix metalloproteinase 13 expression was not altered by either treatment. PRCR increased VEGF-A expression at all time points and TGF-β1 expression at day 4.

Conclusion

In human tenocyte cultures, PRCR, but also PPCR, stimulates cell proliferation and total collagen production. PRCR, but not PPCR, slightly increases the expression of matrix-degrading enzymes and endogenous growth factors.

Clinical Relevance

In vivo use of PRP, but also of PPP to a certain extent, in tendon injuries might accelerate the catabolic demarcation of traumatically injured tendon matrices and promote angiogenesis and formation of a fibrovascular callus. Whether this will also be beneficial for degenerative tendinopathies remains to be elucidated.
Twelve-Year Follow-up on Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Hanypsiak Bryan T. , Spindler Kurt P. , Rothrock Christopher R. , Calabrese Gary J. , Richmond Brad , Herrenbruck Todd M. , Parker Richard D.
Published: March 2008

Background

Although successful at restoring near normal laxity to the knee in the short term, anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions have not been shown to prevent the development of posttraumatic arthritis.

Hypothesis

Bone bruises and articular cartilage injuries sustained at the time of initial injury (1991) would not resolve. Our secondary hypothesis was that the presence of a bone bruise or articular cartilage injury originally identified on magnetic resonance imaging would not be associated with long-term outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction evaluated by the International Knee Documentation Committee questionnaire.

Study Design

Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 1.

Methods

We attempted to contact all patients from an original cohort (N = 54) for follow-up evaluation, which included repeat radiographs, magnetic resonance images, physical examination, and International Knee Documentation Committee questionnaire more than a decade postoperatively.

Results

Forty-four patients (82% of the original cohort) returned for on-site follow-up. No patient with a bone bruise identified on original magnetic resonance imaging had one identified at 12-year follow-up. The mean (±SD) International Knee Documentation Committee score at follow-up with no bone bruise originally present was 70.6 (±12.7) versus 70.0 (±8.1) when a bone bruise was observed ( P > .05). No consistent association was observed between the presence of an initial articular cartilage lesion with a lesion on follow-up magnetic resonance images. The mean (±SD) International Knee Documentation Committee score at follow-up with no articular cartilage injury was 69.0 (±11.9) versus 72.8 (±12.0) with articular cartilage lesion ( P > .05).

Conclusion

All bone bruises identified in our study with magnetic resonance imaging at the time of initial injury had resolved at 12-year follow-up. The presence of a bone bruise at the time of initial injury did not significantly alter the patient-oriented outcome by International Knee Documentation Committee after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Additionally, articular cartilage abnormality on magnetic resonance imaging did not influence the International Knee Documentation Committee score.
Workplace and Academic Buoyancy
Authors: Martin Andrew J. , Marsh Herbert W.
Published: March 2008

Buoyancy is individuals' ability to successfully deal with setbacks and challenges that are typical of everyday life—an “everyday resilience.” From a construct validity perspective, then, the present study conducts a psychometric scoping of buoyancy in the school setting. The study comprised 3,450 high school students and 637 school personnel administered the Buoyancy Scale, along with the Motivation and Engagement Scale and cognate measures. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the hypothesized factor structure of the Buoyancy Scale for personnel and students and invariance in factor loadings suggested similarity in constructs across samples. Reliability and distribution properties were also consistent across samples. Structural equation modeling showed males to be more buoyant in both samples, but opposite age effects were found with higher bouyancy amongst younger respondents in the student sample and older respondents in the workplace sample. Findings demonstrated broad congruency across samples in key relationships between buoyancy and hypothesized correlates.
A CHC Theory-Based Analysis of Age Differences on Cognitive Abilities and Academic Skills at Ages 22 to 90 Years
Authors: Kaufman Alan S. , Johnson Cheryl K. , Xin Liu
Published: March 2008

Age differences for nine age groups between 22 and 25 years and 81 and 90 years were evaluated, covarying educational attainment, on five Cattell-Horn-Carroll (CHC) abilities: fluid reasoning (Gf), crystallized ability (Gc), quantitative knowledge (Gq), reading (Grw-Reading), and writing (Grw-Writing). Data were from the adult portions of the stratified standardization samples of the second editions of the Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test ( N = 570) and the Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement—Brief Form ( N = 555). Gc and Grw-Reading were maintained through old age, whereas Gf, Gq, and Grw-Writing were vulnerable abilities. The age-related decline in mean scores on Gf was powerful, as even the maintained CHC abilities of Gc and Grw-Reading proved to be vulnerable when the component tasks of each were analyzed separately. All Gender × Age interactions were nonsignificant, indicating that age differences for all CHC abilities studied were essentially the same for men and women.
Identifying Collaborative Competencies
Authors: Getha-Taylor Heather
Published: March 2008

Increasingly, federal organizations must work together with other organizations to jointly produce public value. Thus, it is important for public employees to develop critical collaborative skills. The National Academy of Public Administration affirmed this by calling for a focus on collaborative competencies, but the question remained: What are collaborative competencies? Many skills are theoretically connected to collaboration, but these links have not been tested empirically. Following the methodology developed by McClelland and furthered by Spencer and Spencer, this article presents the results of a collaborative competency study. This investigation involved the use of matched criterion samples (superior versus average collaborators) from the federal government. Individuals in the criterion samples were interviewed using the behavioral event interview design to identify differentiating competencies and create a competency model for future validation.
Development of a Change-Sensitive Outcome Measure for Children Receiving Counseling
Authors: Meier Scott T. , McDougal James L. , Bardos Achilles
Published: March 2008

Contemporary testing standards place test purpose as the central focus during test development and subsequent use. This study describes the development of a measure for children designed explicitly to measure change resulting from psychosocial interventions. Parents completed the outcome measure for 896 elementary school-age children receiving psychotherapy interventions from community mental health agencies. Scales formed with change-sensitive items evidenced adequate reliability estimates and larger effect sizes than scales composed of the original item pool. When asked by stakeholders such as parents, principals, and school boards to investigate the effectiveness of provided interventions, school psychologists should consider the use of change-sensitive measures that are sensitive to small and moderately sized treatment effects.
The Relationship Between Domestic Violence and Animal Abuse
Authors: Volant Anne M. , Johnson Judy A. , Gullone Eleonora , Coleman Grahame J.
Published: March 2008

Several North American studies have found a connection between domestic violence and animal abuse. This article reports on the first Australian research to examine this connection. A group of 102 women recruited through 24 domestic violence services in the state of Victoria and a nondomestic violence comparison group (102 women) recruited from the community took part in the study. Significantly higher rates of partner pet abuse, partner threats of pet abuse, and pet abuse by other family members were found in the violent families compared with the nondomestic violence group. As hypothesized, children from the violent families were reported by their mothers to have witnessed and committed significantly more animal abuse than children from the nonviolent families. Logistic regression analyses revealed, for the group as a whole, that a woman whose partner had threatened the pets was 5 times more likely to belong to the intimate partner violence group.
Attitudes of Jordanian Society Toward Wife Abuse
Authors: Btoush Rula , Haj-Yahia Muhammad M.
Published: March 2008

The authors conducted an exploratory study among a convenience sample of 260 Jordanian men and women, using self-administered open and closed questions to examine the participants' approach toward wife abuse. In general, there was high awareness of wife abuse and the different types of abuse (mainly physical and psychological), a general tendency to oppose wife abuse, a tendency to blame the victim for abuse, and a lesser tendency to blame the abuse on the husband, marital problems, as well as familial and societal conditions. There was also a strong tendency to consider wife abuse a personal and familial issue rather than a social and legal problem. Therefore, the preferred method for coping with wife abuse and violence was the expectation that the abused wife should change her behavior and assume responsibility to change her husband followed by resorting to informal agents (family or community or religious figures). Less preferred coping methods included confronting the husband and expressing desire to break up or separate and resorting to formal agents (social welfare programs, counseling, legal system), as a last resort in cases of repeated abuse and severe physical violence. The implications of these findings for future research, interventions, and policy formulation are discussed.
Violence Against Urban African American Girls
Authors: Miller Jody
Published: March 2008

The pioneering efforts of second wave feminists problematized the issue of violence against women. In the intervening decades, a diverse group of stakeholders have claimed the problem as their own. Here I discuss the challenges that result from the evolution of academic, policy, and governmental expertise on violence against women, including the tendency to narrowly frame this problem through the lenses of public health and criminal justice, thus decoupling it from broader issues of equity and justice. Drawing from my research on violence against African American girls in distressed urban neighborhoods, I argue for feminist advocacy as an overarching goal in the study of gendered violence. This orientation holds much promise for (a) recognizing the expertise of women in identifying and articulating their struggles, challenges, and life worlds; (b) grounding our research in structural, institutional, and situationally relevant contexts; and (c) infusing our work with a commitment to social justice.