bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sequential sum problem and performance bounds on the greedy algorithm for the on‐line Steiner problem
Authors: Miller Zevi , Pritikin Dan , Perkel Manley , Sudborough I.H.
Published: March 2005

This article is motivated by versions of the dynamic or “on‐line” Steiner tree problem (OST) introduced by Imase and Waxman [4]. In this problem one is given an edge‐weighted graph G and a sequence σ = (x1,…,xn) of distinct vertices of G. The requirement is to construct for each i ≤ n a tree Ti spanning the first i vertices of σ subject to the condition that Ti−1⫅Ti for all i, where Ti is constructed without knowledge of the remaining vertices xj, j > i. The goal of the on‐line Steiner problem is to minimize the performance ratio; that is, the maximum (over 1 ≤ i ≤ n) of the ratio of the weight of Ti to the weight of the minimum weight tree in G spanning the first i vertices (the latter tree is called the “Steiner tree” for these vertices). In [4] a lower bound of 1 + ½⌊ log2(n−1)⌋ was proved for this ratio. The authors further made the interesting conjecture that there is some on‐line algorithm for the OST whose performance ratio achieves this lower bound. We show that a strong form of the greedy algorithm achieves a ratio that converges to the conjectured ½log2(k) + O(1) as the proportion of degree 2 vertices in the instance graph grows. Our results also imply improvements in certain cases on the known upper bound ⌈log2(n)⌉ for the performance ratio of the greedy algorithm. Our approach is to study a related graph parameter. For each sequence σ as above, define the associated cost

where c(i,σ) = min1 ≤ t < idist(xi, xt). Then let Opt(n, G) be the maximum of L(σ) over all such sequences σ of length n. The problem of, given n and G, determining Opt(n, G) we call the Sequential Sum Problem (SSP).

In this article we analyze the SSP, obtaining exact values and bounds on Opt(n, G) and relating these bounds to the greedy algorithm for the OST. For example, we calculate Opt(n, P) for the path P, and obtain a surprising characterization of all length n sequences σ which realize Opt(n, P). By analyzing Opt(n, P) for the “continuous” path, we derive upper bounds on the performance ratio of the greedy algorithm for the OST in arbitrary graphs. On the other hand, generalizing the lower bound argument of [4] we show that there are instances of OST, which can significantly “fool” any on‐line algorithm for OST. Specifically, given any tree T normalized to have total edge weight 1, we construct a graph G and a length k ≤ |V(T)| sequence σ of vertices of G for which the performance ratio of any on‐line algorithm for the OST with input σ is lower bounded by Opt(k, T). Finally, we show that the SSP for arbitrary G is NP‐complete. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 45(3), 143–164 2005
Evaluation of initiator systems for controlled and sequentially curable free‐radical/cationic hybrid photopolymerizations
Authors: Oxman Joe D. , Jacobs Dwight W. , Trom Matthew C. , Sipani Vishal , Ficek Beth , Scranton Alec B.
Published: March 2005

Free‐radical/cationic hybrid photopolymerizations of acrylates and epoxides were initiated using a three‐component initiator system comprised of camphorquinone as the photosensitizer, an amine as the electron donor, and a diaryliodonium salt. Thermodynamic considerations revealed that the oxidation potential of the electron donor must be less than 1.34 V relative to SCE for electron transfer with the photoexcited camphorquinone to take place. This electron transfer leads to the production of the active centers for the hybrid polymerization (two radicals and a cation). Further investigation revealed that only a subset of electron donors that meet the oxidation potential requirement resulted in polymerization of the epoxide monomer; therefore, a second requirement for the electron donor (pKb higher than 8) was established. Experiments performed using a combination of electron donors revealed that the onset of the hybrid system's cationic polymerization can be advanced or delayed by controlling the concentration and composition of the electron donor(s). These studies demonstrate that a single three‐component initiator system can be used to initiate and chemically control the sequential curing properties of a free‐radical/cationic hybrid photopolymerization and is a viable alternative to separate photoinitiators for each type of polymerization. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 1747–1756, 2005
Memory Awareness Following Speeded Compared with Unspeeded Picture Recognition
Authors: Gardiner John M. , Konstantinou Ira , Karayianni Irene , Gregg Vernon H.
Published: March 2005

Abstract. A remember-know paradigm was used to assess memory awareness following speeded and unspeeded yes/no picture recognition. The beneficial effects of picture size congruency at study and test occurred with speeded as well as with unspeeded recognition. In each case, they were associated with remembering, not with knowing, which remained invariant. Thus, size congruency effects were associated with remembering even when recognition occurred more automatically and hence may be more dependent on a relatively fast familiarity process. In a second experiment, speeded remember responses were compared with remember responses that followed speeded yes/no recognition. There was more remembering when it was the remember responses that were speeded, contrary to what might be expected if remembering reflects a relatively slow recollection process. These results have implications for the ability of dual-process models of recognition memory to account for memory awareness.
An examination of historical mixed layer depths along Line P in the Gulf of Alaska
Authors: Li Michelle , Myers Paul G. , Freeland Howard
Published: March 2005

Mixed layer depth (MLD) is computed, based upon historical measurements along Line P, in the Gulf of Alaska. Forty‐six years of data are used for the monthly climatological calculations. To examine variability, the data are divided into two periods, pre and post 1976. Mixed layers deepen in winter post 1976 in a number of coastal stations. Offshore, including at Station P, shoaling after 1976 is observed in February, but there is also a phase shift with the deepest winter mixed layers occurring in April during the same period (and reaching depths comparable to those seen in February prior to 1976). A pentadal analysis of MLDs at Station P is also carried out and no obvious regime shift in MLD is seen. Significant variability is seen in all seasons, but the variability does not correlate strongly with any of the identified North Pacific patterns of climate variability.
Propranolol Intoxication Revealing a Brugada Syndrome
Authors: AOUATE PHILIP , CLERC JEROME , VIARD PHILIPPE , SEOUD JAMAL
Published: March 2005

This is the first report of Brugada syndrome revealed by beta‐blocker intoxication. A 24‐year‐old healthy man ingested propranolol (2.28 g) to commit suicide. After early gastric lavage, electrolytes, cardiac enzymes, chest X‐ray, and echocardiography were normal. Dosages of psychotropic drugs were negative. ECG showed a typical coved‐type pattern of Brugada syndrome. Follow‐up showed partial ECG normalization of the discrete saddleback‐type pattern. The ajmaline‐ test confirmed Brugada syndrome. These ECG modifications may be explained by the stabilizing membrane effect of high concentration of propranolol and/or inhibition of ICaL. This case illustrates the possible deleterious effects of beta‐blockers in patients with Brugada syndrome.
Bandwidth analysis of solvation dynamics in a simple liquid mixture
Authors: Sakurai M. , Yoshimori A.
Published: March 2005

The time-dependent energy distribution of solvation dynamics is studied by molecular dynamics simulations of a Lennard-Jones mixture. We calculate the response functions of the average and the variance which correspond to the spectral peak shift and bandwidth. Our calculation shows that the variance relaxation is slower than that of the average. The result agrees qualitatively with the experimental results. Dividing the obtained response functions into subcomponents caused by each solvent, we find that the relaxation is dominated by that solvent which strongly interacts with the solute. Extracting the redistribution component from the response functions, we find that it causes the slower relaxation of the response function. Thus, we conclude that the difference of the slower relaxations between the average and variance is caused by the redistribution process.
Molecular dynamics simulations of the surface tension of ionic liquids
Authors: González-Melchor Minerva , Bresme Fernando , Alejandre José
Published: March 2005

We report molecular dynamics computer simulations of the surface tension and interfacial thickness of ionic liquid-vapor interfaces modeled with a soft core primitive model potential. We find that the surface tension shows an anomalous oscillatory behavior with interfacial area. This observation is discussed in terms of finite size effects introduced by the periodic boundary conditions employed in computer simulations. Otherwise we show that the thickness of the liquid-vapor interface increases with surface area as predicted by the capillary wave theory. Data on the surface tension of size-asymmetric ionic liquids are reported and compared with experimental data of molten salts. Our data suggest that the surface tensions of size-asymmetric ionic liquids do not follow a corresponding states law.
Phase diagram of water between hydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Koga Kenichiro , Tanaka Hideki
Published: March 2005

Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate that there are at least two classes of quasi-two-dimensional solid water into which liquid water confined between hydrophobic surfaces freezes spontaneously and whose hydrogen-bond networks are as fully connected as those of bulk ice. One of them is the monolayer ice and the other is the bilayer solid which takes either a crystalline or an amorphous form. Here we present the phase transformations among liquid, bilayer amorphous (or crystalline) ice, and monolayer ice phases at various thermodynamic conditions, then determine curves of melting, freezing, and solid-solid structural change on the isostress planes where temperature and intersurface distance are variable, and finally we propose a phase diagram of the confined water in the temperature-pressure-distance space.
Frequency-domain multiplexed readout of transition-edge sensor arrays with a superconducting quantum interference device
Authors: Lanting T. M. , Cho Hsiao-Mei , Clarke John , Holzapfel W. L. , Lee Adrian T. , Lueker M. , Richards P. L. , Dobbs Matt A. , Spieler Helmuth , Smith A.
Published: March 2005

We demonstrate an eight-channel frequency-domain readout multiplexer for superconducting transition-edge sensors (TESs). Each sensor is biased with a sinusoidal voltage at a unique frequency. The sensor currents are summed and measured with a single superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) array. The 100-element SQUID array is operated with shunt feedback electronics that have a slew rate of 1.2×107Φ0∕s at 1MHz. The multiplexer readout noise is 6.5pA∕Hz, which is well below the expected sensor noise of 15pA∕Hz. We measure an upper limit on adjacent channel crosstalk of 0.004, which meets our design requirements. The demodulated noise spectra of multiplexed TESs are white at frequencies down to 200mHz.
Band gaps of the dilute quaternary alloys GaNxAs1−x−yBiy and Ga1−yInyNxAs1−x
Authors: Tixier S. , Webster S. E. , Young E. C. , Tiedje T. , Francoeur S. , Mascarenhas A. , Wei P. , Schiettekatte F.
Published: March 2005

We report strong band gap photoluminescence at room temperature in dilute quaternary GaNxAs1−x−yBiy alloys (x<1.6%,y<2.6%) grown by molecular beam epitaxy. The band gap of the alloy can be approximated by the band gap of GaAs minus the reduction in gap associated with the effects of N and Bi alloying individually. A one-parameter method for fitting the composition dependence of the band gaps of dilute quaternary semiconductor alloys is proposed which is in excellent agreement with data for Ga1−yInyNxAs1−x.
Elastic constants and magnetic anisotropy of Co∕Pt superlattice thin films
Authors: Nakamura Nobutomo , Ogi Hirotsugu , Hirao Masahiko , Ono Teruo
Published: March 2005

This study is devoted to a correlation between elastic constants and magnetic anisotropy of Co∕Pt superlattice thin films. Co∕Pt superlattice thin films with various Co–Pt layer wavelengths were deposited on monocrystal silicon substrates by an ultrahigh-vacuum-evaporation method, keeping the volume fractions of the Co and Pt layers unchanged. Their perpendicular magnetic anisotropy ranged between −0.2 and 5.0MJ∕m3. Resonant-ultrasound spectroscopy coupled with laser-Doppler interferometry determined their hexagonal-symmetry elastic constants, which correlate with the magnetic anisotropy; higher perpendicular magnetic anisotropy causes larger in-plane elastic moduli and smaller out-of-plane moduli. The correlation is explained by internal elastic strain associated with lattice misfit at the Co–Pt interfaces.
SiO
2
∕
PbTe
quantum-dot multilayer production and characterization
Authors: Rodríguez E. , Jimenez E. , Padilha L. A. , Neves A. A. R. , Jacob G. J. , César C. L. , Barbosa L. C.
Published: March 2005

We report the fabrication of multilayer structures containing layers of PbTe quantum dots (QDs) spaced by 15–20 nm thick SiO2 layers. The QDs were grown by the laser ablation of a PbTe target using the second harmonic of Nd:YAG laser in an argon atmosphere. The SiO2 layers were fabricated by plasma chemical vapor deposition using tetramethoxysilane as a precursor. The influence of the ablation time on the size and size distribution of the QDs is studied by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Optical absorption measurements show clearly the QDs confinement effects.
The 1.51-Å structure of the poxvirus L1 protein, a target of potent neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Su Hua-Poo , Garman Scott C. , Allison Timothy J. , Fogg Christiana , Moss Bernard , Garboczi David N.
Published: March 2005

Although eradicated from nature more than two decades ago, the threat of smallpox has reemerged because of concerns over its use as a biological weapon. We present the structure of the poxvirus L1 protein, a molecule that is conserved throughout the poxvirus family and is nearly identical in vaccinia virus and in variola virus, which causes smallpox. L1 is a myristoylated envelope protein that is a potent target for neutralizing antibodies and an important component of current experimental vaccines. The L1 structure reveals a hydrophobic cavity located adjacent to its N terminus. The cavity would be capable of shielding the myristate moiety, which is essential for virion assembly. The structure of L1 is a step in the elucidation of molecular mechanisms common to all poxviruses that may stimulate the design of safer vaccines and new antipoxvirus drugs.
John Foster Dulles' Nuclear Schizophrenia
Authors: Rosendorf Neal
Published: March 2005

John Foster Dulles’ thinking over the issue of nuclear weapons was inconsistent. He registered strong disapproval on moral grounds of the atomic bombing of Japan and warned of the dangerous precedent the US was setting in using nuclear weapons. Yet, for some years he was an ardent proponent of massive retaliation, which threatened a possible thermonuclear strike in response to conventional aggression. Dulles strove to break down the false distinction between the atom bomb and conventional weapons that was working, he believed, to the Soviets’ military and propaganda advantage. Dulles’ initial legalistic‐moralistic thinking on nuclear weapons clashed sharply with the more bellicose, pessimistic, amoral perspectives he developed in the wake of the Korean invasion. The result was an unwieldy grafting together of the two that contributed significantly to his public and private policy oscillations.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IN LIBERAL DEMOCRATIC SOCIETIES: THE QUESTION OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND AUTONOMY
Authors: Feinberg Walter
Published: March 2005

The essays in Part III of the book, on liberal constraints and traditionalist education, argue for a more regulatory conception of liberal education and emphasize the need for some controls over cultural and religious educational authority. Walter Feinberg’s essay, on religious education in liberal–democratic societies in relation to the question of accountability and autonomy, takes up the issue of educational constraints with respect to religious schools in such societies. While he allows that religious education need not be inconsistent with liberal goals, and can find reasons why some liberal societies feel it appropriate to provide public support for religious schools, he argues that certain conditions can render such support tyrannical and unwise. He concludes that if the conditions are appropriate for public support of religious schools, then there should also be significant public control. After an introduction in Section 14.1, the chapter has six further sections: Section 14.2 discusses some of the potential lines of conflict between religious liberal education and public (common) education; Section 14.3 examines a number of arguments that have been advanced in support of public funding for religious schools; Section 14.4 looks at a potentially fundamental reason for denying public funding for religious schools – that it would be tyrannical to take tax funds from one believer in order to advance the beliefs of another – and the implications as regards the First Amendment to the United States Constitution; both Sections 14.4 and 14.5 suggest some of the conditions that need to be satisfied in order to supply this funding – primarily that it must be predicated on the school advancing individual and social autonomy; Section 14.6 briefly suggests what such an arrangement might entail for the traditional way in which the public/private divide is conceived; Section 14.7 concludes.
Chapter 5 CAN THERE BE A LITERARY PHILOSOPHY OF TIME?
Authors: Currie Gregory
Published: March 2005

Many theorists have been attracted to the idea that literature can help us penetrate the mystery of time. Argues that the track record of the works they appeal to is poor. Finds some common ground with the literary philosophers, and suggests ways in which fiction might tell us things about time; But alsosuggests that there is very little to be hoped for from this programme. A belief to the contrary is largely the result of a misunderstanding about what counts as a question about time.
Chapter 12 THE REPRESENTATIONAL REVOLUTION
Authors: Currie Gregory
Published: March 2005

It is widely believed that a cultural and cognitive revolution occurred at the beginning of the Upper Palaeolithic. Considers the explanation for this revolution offered by Steven Mithen: an explanation that appeals to modularity. Rejects Mithen's account. Suggests another: increase in the power of a general‐purpose imaginative capacity. Links this change to recent work on changing patterns of human development, and changes in social organisation in the Upper Palaeolithic.
Chapter 13 AESTHETIC EXPLANATION
Authors: Currie Gregory
Published: March 2005

Should we hold that the natural history of our artistic capacities and responses is relevant to aesthetic judgement in the way that the history of making of particular artworks is? Distinguishes between what is explanatory within the aesthetic, and what is merely explanatory of the aesthetic. Facts about the natural history of artistic capacities and responses are more apt to fall into the first second than into the first. But there are odd cases where the facts of natural history do impinge on what we might call the space of aesthetic reasons.
Situated Objectivity
Authors: WILLIAMS MALCOLM
Published: March 2005

ABSTRACT: This paper is a re‐examination of the issue of objectivity in sociology. Though it begins from the premise that objectivity is a necessary precondition for a minimally scientific sociology, it sides with subjectivists who claim that values are ever present in investigation. Values are shown to exist along a continuum in investigation. The paper develops the argument that objectivity is a value itself and is nested in other values that will take on a contextual character dependent upon disciplines. Two brief research examples are used to illustrate the way in which objectivity is transferred (or fails to get transferred) through three different levels in sociology.
Successful Application of Simplex Methods to the Optimization of Textured Superconducting Ceramics
Authors: Natividad Eva , Díez Juan C. , Angurel Luis A. , Andrés José M.
Published: March 2005

The fabrication of ceramic materials implies dealing with a great number of processing variables with clear interaction, which prevents straightforward optimization of the processes. In this paper, we report the optimization process applied to improve the properties of LFZ‐textured Bi‐2212 superconducting thin rods. In this process, based on Simplex optimization methods, four growth and four annealing parameters were taken as control variables to obtain high critical currents and short processing times. As a result, the critical current values increased by a factor of 3 after only 30 trials.
Effects of Polarity on Grain‐Boundary Migration in ZnO
Authors: Lee Jong‐Sook , Wiederhorn Sheldon M.
Published: March 2005

The migration of boundaries between single crystal and polycrystalline ZnO was investigated using single crystals with well‐defined crystallographic faces. The migration rate of the basal (0001) planes through polycrystalline ZnO depended on the crystallographic polarity of the basal plane. Grain boundary migration in the [0001] direction was much faster than in the [000[Onemacr]] direction. Migration rates of boundaries in nonpolar directions were somewhat slower than that in the [0001] direction. Slow growth in the [000[Onemacr]] direction and rapid growth in nonpolar directions found in the present study help to explain the anisotropic growth of the grains that contain head‐to‐head inversion boundaries in ZnO varistor ceramics.
R‐Curve Behavior of Si3N4–BN Composites
Authors: Yoon Young Sik , Na Sang Woong , Lee Jaehyung , Cho Myeong‐Woo , Lee Eun‐Sang , Cho Won‐Seung
Published: March 2005

R‐curve behavior of Si3N4–BN composites and monolithic Si3N4 for comparison was investigated. Si3N4–BN composites showed a slowly rising R‐curve behavior in contrast with a steep R‐curve of monolithic Si3N4. BN platelets in the composites seem to decrease the crack bridging effects of rod‐shaped Si3N4 grains for small cracks, but enhanced the toughness for long cracks as they increased the crack bridging scale. Therefore, fracture toughness of the composites was relatively low for the small cracks, but it increased significantly to ∼8 MPa·m1/2 when the crack grew longer than 700 μm, becoming even higher than that of the monolithic Si3N4.
The Red‐Shift of Ultraviolet Spectra and the Relation to Optical Basicity of Ce‐Doped Alkali Rare‐Earth Phosphate Glasses
Authors: Chen Guorong , Baccaro Stefania , Nikl Martin , Cecilia Angelica , Du Yunxia Yang , Mihokova Eva
Published: March 2005

The ultraviolet absorption and emission spectra of Ce3+ doped phosphate glasses based on gadolinium and sodium phosphates are studied in the present work. Compared with the cerium‐free phosphate glass matrixes, CePO4 doping shifts the ultraviolet absorption edge of glasses into the longer wavelength because of the 4f–5d absorption transition of Ce3+. The emission spectra correlate such red‐shift with glass compositions. Explanations are based on variation in the optical basicity of glasses, which corresponds not only to the alkali content but also to the O/P ratio. The latter is proportional to the number of nonbridging oxygen in the oxyanion unit (PO4), and most likely plays an overwhelming role in the overall optical basicity of glasses.
Quantitative Identification of Phonon Modes Controlling the Multiphonon Relaxation in Heavy‐Metal Oxide Glasses
Authors: Han Yong Seop , Song Jay Hyok , Heo Jong
Published: March 2005

The phonon mode(s) controlling the multiphonon relaxation (MPR) in PbO–Bi2O3–Ga2O3 glass was analyzed, and the effect of GeO2 addition on the MPR process was investigated. MPR rates were obtained from the lifetimes of the Tm3+:3H4 level in glasses over the temperature range 20–280 K. In PbO–Bi2O3–Ga2O3 glass, phonons from the bending vibration between GaO4 tetrahedra (∼550 cm−1) controlled the MPR process. On the addition of GeO2, the phonon mode at ∼770 cm−1 due to the stretching vibration of GeO4 tetrahedra started to affect the MPR process. Phonon modes controlling the MPR process in PbO–Bi2O3–Ga2O3–GeO2 glass were both 550 cm−1 and 770 cm−1.
The effect of gas flow on the filtration performance of breathing system filters
Authors: Wilkes A. R.
Published: March 2005

When tested according to the European standard, the performance of breathing system filters is determined at a flow of 15 or 30 l.min−1 for filters intended for use with paediatric or adult patients, respectively. However, higher flows of gas may pass through a filter in some circumstances. The penetration of sodium chloride particles through seven different breathing system filters (three pleated hydrophobic and four electrostatic) was measured at five different flows ranging from 15 to 75 l.min−1. Penetration varied from 0.004% to 24.4% for the various filters at the different flows. Penetration increased by between 2 and 40 times for the different filters as the flow increased by a factor of five but this did not markedly alter the rank order of the filters in terms of performance. Testing to the standard provides a useful indication of relative performance at any flow.
Mycobacterium tuberculosisgenome-wide screen exposes multiple CD8+ T cell epitopes
Authors: Hammond A S , Klein M R , Corrah T , Fox A , Jaye A , McAdam K P , Brookes R H
Published: March 2005

Mounting evidence suggests human leucocyte antigen (HLA) class I-restricted CD8+ T cells play a role in protective immunity against tuberculosis yet relatively few epitopes specific for the causative organism, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, are reported. Here a total genome-wide screen of M. tuberculosis was used to identify putative HLA-B*3501 T cell epitopes. Of 479 predicted epitopes, 13 with the highest score were synthesized and used to restimulate lymphocytes from naturally exposed HLA-B*3501 healthy individuals in cultured and ex vivo enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assays for interferon (IFN)-γ. All 13 peptides elicited a response that varied considerably between individuals. For three peptides CD8+ T cell lines were expanded and four of the 13 were recognized permissively through the HLA-B7 supertype family. Although further testing is required we show the genome-wide screen to be feasible for the identification of unknown mycobacterial antigens involved in immunity against natural infection. While the mechanisms of protective immunity against M. tuberculosis infection remain unclear, conventional class I-restricted CD8+ T cell responses appear to be widespread throughout the genome.
Species richness estimators: how many species can dance on the head of a pin?
Authors: O'HARA R. B.
Published: March 2005

Several species richness estimators (two non‐parametric, four based on rarefaction curves and two from fitting of abundance distributions) were compared by examining their performance in estimating the species richness for two moth data sets from the United Kingdom. Comparisons were also made using data simulated from the fitted abundance distributions.

The different species richness estimators gave different estimates. The non‐parametric estimates and the rarefaction estimates were similar, but were smaller than the parametric estimates. When the simulated data were used, the only methods to give estimates near the true value was the parametric method using the distribution from which the data were simulated.

At present it is impossible to decide whether any of the estimation methods will give a realistic estimate, as not enough is known about the true numbers of species in communities. Until this is rectified, the most that can be hoped for is to obtain upper and lower bounds on species richness.
Lipid‐based amphotericin in pulmonary zygomycosis: safety and efficacy of high exposure in a renal allograft recipient
Authors: Crompton J.A. , Alexander D. , Somerville T. , Shihab F.S.
Published: March 2005

Abstract: Zygomycosis is associated with a high mortality in immunosuppressed patients. Treatment typically includes surgical resection and administration of intravenous amphotericin B. Success of treatment may require withdrawal of immunosuppression, with risk of graft loss. We report the successful treatment of invasive pulmonary zygomycosis, following initial surgical resection, using very high doses of lipid‐based amphotericin B without withdrawal of immunosuppression. The patient received daily doses up to 10 mg/kg/day (51 g cumulatively) of lipid‐based amphotericin B along with a brief course of intrapleural amphotericin. Despite immunosuppression not being withdrawn, the patient's kidney allograft function remained stable. We conclude that high doses of lipid‐based amphotericin B can be safe and effective as part of the treatment regimen for pulmonary zygomycosis.
Differentiating explanations of attitude‐consistent behavior: The role of perspectives and mode of perspective taking
Authors: DIMDINS GIRTS , MONTGOMERY HENRY , AUSTERS IVARS
Published: March 2005

We examined whether participants could differentiate between explanations of attitude‐consistent behavior related to EU membership given from two perspectives (EU supporter and EU opponent) by means of three perspective taking modes (the explainer's own perspective, imagined in‐group members’ perspective, and imagined out‐group members’ perspective). Participants were presented with explanations provided from different perspectives and perspective taking modes, and they were asked to judge the extent to which they agreed with each explanation, to guess the attitude of the provider of each explanation, and to rate the quality of each explanation in various respects. Participants could not differentiate between explanations given by in‐group members and out‐group members who imagined the same perspective. They responded more favorably to explanations given from own perspective than from the imagined perspectives. The results suggest that there exists a shared understanding about how both sides should explain attitude‐consistent behavior, but this understanding is measurably different from the actual explanations.
The novelty effect: Support for the Novelty‐Encoding Hypothesis
Authors: KORMI‐NOURI REZA , NILSSON LARS‐GÖRAN , OHTA NOBUO
Published: March 2005

In two experiments, we examined the “Novelty‐Encoding Hypothesis” proposed byTulving and Kroll (1995), suggesting that the encoding of online information into long‐term memory is influenced by its novelty and that novelty increases recognition performance. In Phase 1 (familiarization phase), subjects participated in a standard memory experiment in which different types of materials (verbs and nouns) were studied under different encoding conditions (enactment and non‐enactment) and were tested by an expected recognition test. In Phase 2 (critical phase), subjects evaluated the materials (both familiar materials which were encoded earlier in Phase 1, and novel materials which were not presented earlier in Phase 1) in a frequency judgment task and were given an unexpected recognition test. The results of both experiments showed that novel items were recognized better than familiar items. This result held true for both hit rates – false alarms and hit rates. The novelty effect was observed for different subjects (Swedish and Japanese), different materials (verbs and nouns; high frequency and low frequency), and different types of encoding in Phase 1 (enactment and non‐enactment). These findings provide support for the “Novelty‐Encoding Hypothesis” stating that the effect is based on the encoding of target items at the time of the critical study (Phase 2). A comparison between the present experiments and theTulving and Kroll (1995),Dobbins, Kroll, Yonelinas & Liu (1998) andGreene (1999) studies suggests that the novelty effect is more pronounced under incidental encoding than under intentional encoding.
Youth–parent consistencies on ratings of difficulties and prosocial behavior: Exploration of an at‐risk sample
Authors: WAAKTAAR T. , BORGE A. I. H. , CHRISTIE H. J. , TORGERSEN S.
Published: March 2005

Low informant agreement is of particular concern in clinical settings, since diagnoses and interventions are largely based on reports from parents and/or youths. This study explores youth‐parent consistencies in an at‐risk sample of youths (n= 42), several from immigrant and refugee families, all with stressful background experiences. Data from a community sample (n= 165) was used to contrast the clinical results. Results showed that correlations between clinical youths and parents were within the same range as those in the community sample. Consistencies concerning absolute level of behavior were higher in the clinical sample. However, interesting differences in informant consistencies were found on difficulties and resources between the two samples. This study adds to the picture that there is no simple relationship between severity of behavior deviance and informant agreement. Asking about behavioral resources as well as difficulties may provide valuable additional information regarding differences in the perspectives of at‐risk youths and parents.
DIC in variable selection
Authors: van der Linde Angelika
Published: March 2005

Model comparison is discussed from an information theoretic point of view. In particular the posterior predictive entropy is related to the target yielding DIC and modifications thereof. The adequacy of criteria for posterior predictive model comparison is also investigated depending on the comparison to be made. In particular variable selection as a special problem of model choice is formalized in different ways according to whether the comparison is a comparison across models or within an encompassing model and whether a joint or conditional sampling scheme is applied. DIC has been devised for comparisons across models. Its use in variable selection and that of other criteria is illustrated for a simulated data set.
Bayesian modification indices for IRT models
Authors: Fox Jean‐Paul , Glas Cees A. W.
Published: March 2005

Bayesian modification indices are presented that provide information for the process of model evaluation and model modification. These indices can be used to investigate the improvement in a model if fixed parameters are re‐specified as free parameters. The indices can be seen as a Bayesian analogue to the modification indices commonly used in a frequentist framework. The aim is to provide diagnostic information for multi‐parameter models where the number of possible model violations and the related number of alternative models is too large to render estimation of each alternative practical. As an example, the method is applied to an item response theory (IRT) model, that is, to the two‐parameter model. The method is used to investigate differential item functioning and violations of the assumption of local independence.
An Experimental Performance Evaluation of Spatio‐Temporal Join Strategies
Authors: Jeong Seung‐Hyun , Paton Norman W. , Fernandes Alvaro A. A. , Griffiths Tony
Published: March 2005

Many applications capture, or make use of, spatial data that changes over time. This requirement for effective and efficient spatio‐temporal data management has given rise to a range of research activities relating to spatio‐temporal data management. Such work has sought to understand, for example, the requirements of different categories of application, and the modelling facilities that are most effective for these applications. However, at present, there are few systems with fully integrated support for spatio‐temporal data, and thus developers must often construct custom solutions for their applications. Developers of both bespoke solutions and of generic spatio‐temporal platforms will often need to support the fusion of large spatio‐temporal data sets. Supporting such requests in a database setting involves the use of join operations with both spatial and temporal conditions – spatio‐temporal joins. However, there has been little work to date on spatio‐temporal join algorithms or their evaluation. This paper presents an evaluation of several approaches to the implementation of spatio‐temporal joins that build upon widely available indexing techniques. The evaluation explores how several algorithms perform for databases with different spatial and temporal characteristics, with a view to helping developers of generic infrastructures or custom solutions in the selection and development of appropriate spatio‐temporal join strategies.
Natural Conversational Interfaces to Geospatial Databases
Authors: Cai Guoray , Wang Hongmei , MacEachren Alan M. , Fuhrmann Sven
Published: March 2005

Natural (spoken) language, combined with gestures and other human modalities, provides a promising alternative for interacting with computers, but such benefit has not been explored for interactions with geographical information systems. This paper presents a conceptual framework for enabling conversational human‐GIS interactions. Conversations with a GIS are modeled as human‐computer collaborative activities within a task domain. We adopt a mental state view of collaboration and discourse and propose a plan‐based computational model for conversational grounding and dialogue generation. At the implementation level, our approach is to introduce a dialogue agent,GeoDialogue, between a user and a geographical information server.GeoDialogueactively recognizes user's information needs, reasons about detailed cartographic and database procedures, and acts cooperatively to assist user's problem solving.GeoDialogueserves as a semantic ‘bridge’ between the human language and the formal language that a GIS understands. The behavior of such dialogue‐assisted human‐GIS interfaces is illustrated through a scenario simulating a session of emergency response during a hurricane event.
PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: Health‐Related Quality of Life in Nephrology Research and Clinical Practice
Authors: Unruh Mark L. , Weisbord Steven D. , Kimmel Paul L.
Published: March 2005

Physical, psychosocial, and lifestyle disturbances, along with physical and emotional symptoms, have been shown to impact the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of those dependent on renal replacement therapy. The value of HRQOL measurement as a tool to improve clinical care has been recognized by patients, clinical investigators, and health care providers. The potential importance of HRQOL assessment lies in the additional information it provides and the impact it has on the clinical decision‐making process between a patient and a physician. There remain a multitude of challenges facing renal providers who wish to incorporate HRQOL measurement to improve patient care. These challenges include the clinician's understanding of the conceptual model of HRQOL, the quality of the scientific process that contributed to the current literature on HRQOL, a willingness of the clinician to incorporate HRQOL information into clinical practice, and the logistic difficulties of collecting and applying HRQOL data in a busy practice setting. Arguably, optimizing HRQOL may be the most substantial impact the health care team will have on the person with kidney failure. In order to implement HRQOL assessment at the point of care, providers may consider using computer adaptive testing and scoring algorithms using item response theory, which will allow adequate reliability for interpretation of change among individuals. Moreover, the effective assessment and interpretation of HRQOL will be aided by continued publication of norms, outcomes of randomized controlled trials, and continued experience of investigators and clinicians.
PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: Frequent Hemodialysis and Psychosocial Function
Authors: Kurella Manjula , Suri Rita S. , Chertow Glenn M.
Published: March 2005

Studies suggest that more frequent hemodialysis (HD; short daily and long nocturnal dialysis) may be associated with a variety of clinical benefits, including improvement in blood pressure, anemia, and hyperphosphatemia, regression of left ventricular hypertrophy, and reduced rates of hospitalization. Whether these clinical benefits are paralleled by improvements in health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) has been unclear. In addition, the psychosocial burden of more intensive HD schedules has not been critically evaluated. Recent reports have suggested beneficial effects of frequent HD on global HRQOL, dialysis‐related and uremic symptoms, patient satisfaction, and psychosocial burden. However, the interpretation of many of these studies is restricted by limitations in study design, follow‐up, and generalizability. This article reviews the current literature focusing on psychosocial and HRQOL effects of frequent HD and suggests future directions for research in this important area.
PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: Depression and Renal Disease
Authors: Tossani Eliana , Cassano Paolo , Fava Maurizio
Published: March 2005

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent disease, frequently characterized by recurrent or chronic course, and by comorbidity with other medical illnesses. The lifetime prevalence of MDD ranges up to 17% in the general population, and it almost doubles in patients with diabetes (9–27%), stroke (22–50%), or cancer (18–39%). Moreover, MDD worsens the prognosis, quality of life, and treatment compliance of patients with comorbid medical illnesses. Similar to what is observed with other comorbid illnesses, MDD worsens the outcome of kidney disease patients by increasing both morbidity and mortality. Treatment of depressive symptoms in renal failure patients increases medication acceptability and therefore potentially improves the overall patient outcome. The issue of the safety of antidepressant treatment in subjects with renal failure is frequently counterbalanced by the risks associated with depression comorbidity, provided that antidepressants with a low volume of distribution and low protein binding are prescribed, and most important, at low initial doses. Screening for CYP isoenzyme interactions with current medications is also recommended before starting antidepressant treatment.
Percutaneous Treatment of Dissection of the Ascending Aorta Occurring as a Complication During Coronary Angioplasty of a Saphenous Vein Bypass Graft
Authors: SHAH PRASAD , DZAVIK VLADIMIR
Published: March 2005

Aortocoronary dissection can occur as a complication of angioplasty of native coronary arteries. This case report is of aortic dissection occurring as a complication of percutaneous coronary intervention of proximal anastomoses of a saphenous vein bypass graft. The aortic dissection that had progressed retrogradely into the ascending aorta was treated percutaneously by stenting in the saphenous vein graft with a membrane‐covered stent.
Do Complaints of Amaurosis Fugax and Blurred Vision after Transcatheter Device Closure of Atrial Septal Defect Indicate Microemboli to Retinal Vessels?
Authors: EHRLICH RITA , MUTZMACHER LARISA , AVERBUCH LEA , DOTAN GAD , HIRSH REFAEL
Published: March 2005

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a common diagnosis in young adults with congenital heart disease. The aim of this study was to determine if ocular symptoms following percutaneous treatment are due to microemboli. The study group included 20 adult patients (9 men, 11 women, mean age 57.2 years) with ASD who had undergone successful closure with the Amplatzer occluder. The patients were treated with aspirin or warfarin during 6 months after the procedure. All were evaluated neurologically and an ocular medical history was obtained. Ocular examination included the 120‐point Humphrey visual field. Transcranial Doppler (TCD) was performed to monitor the middle cerebral artery. Two patients complained of amaurosis fugax at 1 and 3 months after the procedure, and two patients complained of blurred vision at 3 and 4 months after the procedure. TCD performed for 45 minutes within 24 hours of the visual complaints revealed no abnormalities. In all patients, the neurological and ocular examinations, including the visual field test, were normal. In conclusion, microembolic events could not be demonstrated to be the cause of the ocular complaints in patients with ASD treated with Amplatzer occluder. Further studies in larger samples are needed to confirm these results.
Fabrication and Structural Control of Fe/Ti Oxide Thin Films with Graded Compositional Profiles by Liquid Phase Deposition
Authors: Deki Shigehito , Iizuka Sachihiko , Akamatsu Kensuke , Mizuhata Minoru , Kajinami Akihiko
Published: March 2005

Fe/Ti oxide films with graded composition profiles have been prepared from aqueous metal‐fluoro complex solutions by the liquid phase deposition method. Films were deposited from a solution, in which the (NH4)2TiF6 solution was added under a controlled flow rate into the FeOOH–NH4F·HF solution. Transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray microanalysis of the films revealed that the composition and graded profile of the deposited films in depth direction could be controlled by adjusting the mixing conditions of the reacting solution. Along with the change in composition, the microstructure of the films changes from microcrystalline β‐FeOOH at the base to nanocrystalline anatase TiO2 near the surface.
Al–Al2O3Composites with Interpenetrating Network Structures: Composite Modulus Estimation
Authors: Moon Robert J. , Tilbrook Matthew , Hoffman Mark , Neubrand Achim
Published: March 2005

The effective Young's moduli of co‐continuous Al–Al2O3composites over the 5–97 vol% Al2O3composition range were experimentally measured and compared with theoretical composite modulus values predicted using the methods of Ravichandran, Tuchinskii, Hashin‐Shtrikman, and the effective medium approximation (EMA). The influence of phase morphology and the modulus ratio (E1/E2) of the constituent phases on the resulting experimental and calculated Young's modulus is discussed. For two‐phased co‐continuous composites with a modulus ratio greater than 5, the EMA, with an appropriate microstructural shape factor, was the most consistent method for approximating the composite Young's modulus over the entire composition range.
Electrophysiological properties of two axonal sodium channels, Nav1.2 and Nav1.6, expressed in mouse spinal sensory neurones
Authors: Rush Anthony M. , Dib‐Hajj Sulayman D. , Waxman Stephen G.
Published: March 2005

Sodium channels Nav1.2 and Nav1.6 are both normally expressed along premyelinated and myelinated axons at different stages of maturation and are also expressed in a subset of demyelinated axons, where coexpression of Nav1.6 together with the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger is associated with axonal injury. It has been difficult to distinguish the currents produced by Nav1.2 and Nav1.6 in native neurones, and previous studies have not compared these channels within neuronal expression systems. In this study, we have characterized and directly compared Nav1.2 and Nav1.6 in a mammalian neuronal cell background and demonstrate differences in their properties that may affect neuronal behaviour. The Nav1.2 channel displays more depolarized activation and availability properties that may permit conduction of action potentials, even with depolarization. However, Nav1.2 channels show a greater accumulation of inactivation at higher frequencies of stimulation (20–100 Hz) than Nav1.6 and thus are likely to generate lower frequencies of firing. Nav1.6 channels produce a larger persistent current that may play a role in triggering reverse Na+/Ca2+ exchange, which can injure demyelinated axons where Nav1.6 and the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger are colocalized, while selective expression of Nav1.2 may support action potential electrogenesis, at least at lower frequencies, while producing a smaller persistent current.