bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between multiple sequence alignments and quality of protein comparative models
Authors: Cozzetto Domenico , Tramontano Anna
Published: October 2004

Comparative modeling is the method of choice, whenever applicable, for protein structure prediction, not only because of its higher accuracy compared to alternative methods, but also because it is possible to estimate a priori the quality of the models that it can produce, thereby allowing the usefulness of a model for a given application to be assessed beforehand.

By and large, the quality of a comparative model depends on two factors: the extent of structural divergence between the target and the template and the quality of the sequence alignment between the two protein sequences. The latter is usually derived from a multiple sequence alignment (MSA) of as many proteins of the family as possible, and its accuracy depends on the number and similarity distribution of the sequences of the protein family.

Here we describe a method to evaluate the expected difficulty, and by extension accuracy, of a comparative model on the basis of the MSA used to build it. The parameter that we derive is used to compare the results obtained in the last two editions of the Critical Assessment of Methods for Structure Prediction (CASP) experiment as a function of the difficulty of the modeling exercise. Our analysis demonstrates that the improvement in the scope and quality of comparative models between the two experiments is largely due to the increased number of available protein sequences and to the consequent increased chance that a large and appropriately spaced set of protein sequences homologous to the proteins of interest is available. Proteins 2005. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of pressure on the phonon–phonon and electron–phonon interactions in semiconductors
Authors: Cardona M.
Published: October 2004

We discuss the dependence of phonon frequencies on hydrostatic pressure for tetrahedrally bonded semiconductors, in particular the linear term represented by mode Grüneisen parameters. The relation between these parameters and the thermal expansion is also elucidated. Emphasis is placed on recent results that concern the zero‐point renormalization of lattice parameters and its dependence on isotopic masses. The pressure dependence of transverse charges of ir‐active phonons is also touched upon. We also discuss strong pressure and isotopic mass effects on phonon widths and line shapes that are occasionally observed for selected materials. Finally, we present recently observed effects of pressure on the luminescence of isotopically pure silicon which are strong enough to be easily detected in the 0–1 bar range. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Prospects for the development of pre‐mortem laboratory diagnostic tests for Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease
Authors: Dabaghian Reza H. , Mortimer Philip P. , Clewley Jonathan P.
Published: October 2004

At present the diagnosis of Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD) and related transmissible spongiform encephalopathies in humans is based on clinical criteria and (at post‐mortem) the histopathological and immunological examination of brain tissue. The misfolded prion protein, PrPSc, is the single most significant marker, but its recognition by standard serological methods is complicated by its antigenic similarity to the normal prion protein, PrPC. Although there are commercial diagnostic assays available for bovine spongiform encephalopathy using brain specimens taken at slaughter, there are no suitable pre‐mortem assays for cattle and none either for pre‐mortem human disease. Especially in view of the recent report of variant CJD transmission by blood transfusion, it is important that tests for pre‐symptomatic infections are developed. This will safeguard the blood supply and, for example, prevent the transmission of CJD in neurosurgery. This paper reviews the current and prospective approaches to the pre‐mortem diagnosis of CJD, in particular its variant form. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mobile internet access using satellite networks
Authors: Loreti P. , Luglio M. , Kapoor R. , Stepanek J. , Gerla M. , Vatalaro F. , Vazquez‐Castro M. A.
Published: October 2004

Satellites offer a promising alternative for mobile access to the Internet by both pedestrians, and more importantly, from vehicles. As such, satellites provide an essential complement to the cellular radio (UMTS) infrastructure in sparsely populated areas where high bandwidth UMTS cells cannot be economically deployed. In this paper, we analyse various mobile Internet applications in representative urban scenarios for two LEO constellations (one with polar orbits and the other with inclined orbits), as well as for some simple GEO configurations. To this end, we develop a satellite channel propagation model that includes shadowing from surrounding building skylines based on actual data in a built‐up area.

Using these tools, we analyse various Internet applications and the performance of various TCP schemes in different topologies. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transport protocols in multicast via satellite
Authors: Akkor Gun , Hadjitheodosiou Michael , Baras John S.
Published: October 2004

In a wide variety of broadband applications, there is a need to distribute information to a potentially large number of receiver sites that are widely dispersed from each other. Communication satellites are a natural technology option and are extremely well suited for carrying such services because of the inherent broadcast capability of the satellite channel. Despite the potential of satellite multicast, there exists little support for multicast services over satellite networks. Although several multicast protocols have been proposed for use over the Internet, they are not optimized for satellite networks. One of the key multicast components that is affected when satellite networks are involved in the communication is the transport layer. In this paper, we attempt to provide an overview of the design space and the ways in which the network deployment and application requirements affect the solution space for transport layer schemes in a satellite environment. We also highlight some of the issues that are critical in the development of next generation satellite multicast services. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A capture‐assisted random access scheme for multi‐beam LEO satellite packet data networks
Authors: Thomas George
Published: October 2004

A CDMA‐based satellite switch is proposed for use in multi‐beam satellites carrying random‐access packet‐switched data. Applications include the emerging new low‐earth‐orbit (LEO) satellite networks which support global wireless networking. Capture phenomenon is used to advantage in increasing the random access throughput, and the on‐board switch is at once simple and specially designed to handle full loads with minimal complexity. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stimulation of wound healing by the immunomodulator LS‐2616 (Linomide)
Authors: Lepistö Jyri , Laato Matti , Niinikoski Juha , Lundberg Claes , Gerdin Bengt
Published: October 2004

LS‐2616 (Linomide), a quinoline‐3‐carboxamide, is an immunomodulator that has been suggested to act on macrophage‐like cells. Based on a hypothesis that LS‐2616 would stimulate macrophages in the wound and affect the healing process, the effects of LS‐2616 on developing granulation tissue were evaluated using a wound model in rats. Subcutaneously implanted cylindrical cellulose sponges were used as an inductive matrix for the ingrowth of granulation tissue. LS‐2616 was continuously present at a concentration of 1.2 mg/ml in the drinking water either for 7 days before implantation or starting at the implantation of sponges. Seven days after implantation LS‐2616 treatment increased the mean amounts of nitrogen and collagen hydroxyproline over the control level 1+20% (p<0.05) and +59% (p<0.05), respectively]. The effect was less pronounced in the rats receiving LS‐2616 in advance [+7% (NS) and +38% (p<0.05), respectively]. The mean amounts of nucleic acids and protcoglycans tended to decrease in the rats receiving LS‐2616 in advance compared to the control rats [‐12% to 13% (NS) and‐25% (p<0.05), respectively]. It was concluded that continuous oral administration of LS‐2616 enhanced wound repair in the rat. This immunoenhancement of round healing results in increased accumulation of collagen.
En bloc resection for extensive hepatocellular carcinoma: Is it advisable?
Authors: Jeng Kuo‐Shyang , Chen Bee‐Fong , Lin Hong‐Jyh
Published: October 2004

When the adjacent organ is partially invaded by a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), whether to go on an aggressive resection is a difficult but challenging problem. To investigate the worth of en bloc resections, a retrospective controlled study was conducted. During a 9‐year period, nine patients (seven men, two women: group I) who had HCC with invasions to extrahepatic adjacent organs had undergone en bloc resections. The adjacent organs included diaphragm (eight cases), adrenal gland (two cases), abdominal wall (one case), and spleen (one case). The patients selected for en bloc resections were those with a solitary tumor without evidence of vascular invasion or intravascular tumor thrombi, daughter nodule(s), or distant metastasis. The evidence was based on preoperative evaluation by ultrasonography, computed tomography, arteriography, and intraoperative ultrasonography. Eighteen matched patients with HCC but no involvement of neighboring organs were selected as controls (14 men, 4 women: group II). Though patients of group I had wider invasion of HCC and more extensive resection, their surgical morbidity, mortality, hospital mortality, disease‐free interval, and survival time were similar to those of group II, who had more limited HCC and resections. Eighteen months after operation, the HCC recurrence rate was 44% and 41% in groups I and II, respectively, and the percent survivals were 71% and 63%, respectively. We suggest that in cases of large HCC with local invasion to neighboring organs, aggressive en bloc resection is recommended after appropriate patient selection.
Diagnostic evaluation and surgical management of hydatid disease of the liver
Authors: Safioleas Michael , Misiakos Evangelos , Manti Christine , Katsikas Demetrios , Skalkeas Gregory
Published: October 2004

Human echinococcosis is still endemic in some areas of the world, including Mediterranean countries. Because there is no effective medical therapy, surgery remains the principal mode of treatment. A consecutive series of 132 patients operated on for liver hydatid disease between January 1977 and February 1993 were analyzed. There were 60 men (45.4%) and 72 women (54.6%) aged 31 to 88 years (mean 56 years). The right lobe of the liver was affected in 68 cases (51.5%), the left lobe in 31 cases (23.5%), and both lobes in 14 cases (10.6%); there were multiple liver cysts in 7 cases (5.3%), concomitant cysts in other parenchymal organs in 4 cases (3.0%), and disseminated intraabdominal hydatid disease in 8 cases (6.1%). Clinical symptomatology consisted of abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, urticaria, and an abdominal mass. Preoperative diagnosis was established using imaging studies: plain abdominal films, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and serologic tests. Three patients (2.3%) underwent simple closure without drainage, 7 patients (5.3%) cyst excision, 4 patients (3.0%) marsupialization, 1 patient (0.8%) left lateral segmentectomy, 15 patients (11.3%) external drainage, 69 patients (52.3%) omentoplasty, and 33 patients (25.0%) combinations of procedures. Postoperative morbidity was low and consisted of hepatic abscess development, wound infection, bowel obstruction, and biliary leaks. Six patients (4.5%) had recurrent disease. One patient died during the postoperative period because of septic complications. Among the surgical techniques we used, excision of the cyst (when feasible) and omentoplasty produced the lowest complication rates and the best clinical results.
Impact of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt on orthotopic liver transplantation
Authors: Menegaux Fabrice , Baker Edward , Keeffe Emmet B. , Monge Humberto , Egawa Hiroto , Esquivel Carlos O.
Published: October 2004

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is being increasingly utilized prior to liver transplantation for portal hypertensive bleeding refractory to sclerotherapy or as initial management of variceal bleeding. The impact of TIPS on subsequent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of TIPS on OLT in terms of operative transfusion requirements, operative time, length of hospital stay, and graft and patient survival. The results in 17 patients undergoing TIPS for control of initial or recurrent variceal bleeding prior to OLT between June 1991 and December 1992 were compared to two other groups undergoing transplantation: 32 control patients with a history of variceal bleeding not treated by TIPS and 11 patients with a previous surgical portosystemic shunt. Compared with control and surgical shunt patients, patients who underwent TIPS had less transfusion requirement for packed red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma during OLT. The operative time and hospital stay of the TIPS patients were slightly, but not significantly, less. In contrast to patients having TIPS, the patients with a history of a previous surgical shunt had an increased requirement for packed red blood cells, longer operative time, and longer stay in the intensive care unit and hospital. Two patients had recurrent variceal bleeding after TIPS; one patient was found to have an occluded stent, and the other patient (with a patent stent) responded to sclerotherapy. Of the 14 patients with ascites, 8 patients improved and 6 patients had complete resolution after TIPS. There were no major complications related to TIPS, although 3 patients had new or recurrent hepatic encephalopathy that was easily manageable. Thus the preoperative performance of TIPS is associated with less operative transfusion requirement during OLT, presumably secondary to a reduction in portal hypertension. TIPS is preferred to surgical shunt for pretransplant refractory variceal bleeding, as the latter is associated not only with significant morbidity and mortality but also increased transfusion requirements and prolonged operative time and hospital stay.
Simultaneous surgery for coronary artery disease and gastric cancer
Authors: Kamiike Wataru , Miyata Masahiko , Izukura Massaki , Itoh Toshinori , Nezu Riichiro , Nakamuro Makoto , Hatanaka Nobutaka , Shimizu Shigeomi , Takahashi Toshiki , Shimazaki Yasuhisa , Nakano Susumu , Matsuda Hikaru
Published: October 2004

Or 26 patients who underwent both coronary artery bypass grafting and abdominal surgery at our institution between 1977 and 1992, nine had severe coronary artery disease associated with UICC stage I gastric cancer. They were treated by coronary artery bypass grafting followed by a curative operation for gastric cancer, the initial four patients underwent two‐staged surgery (group A), and the most recent five patients underwent simultaneous surgery (group B). The cardiac surgery was performed first in all patients, and in group A the interval between the two procedures was 2 to 7 weeks. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of preoperative characteristics: sex, age, preoperative complications, NYHA class, prior myocardial infarction, ejection fraction, cardiac index, number of vessels diseased, or number of grafts. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of blood loss during the gastric operation (A: 649±194 ml; B: 842±326 ml) or the operating time (A: 371±106 minutes; B: 343±46 minutes). Two group A patients had postoperative complications (one had arrhythmia, and one died of sepsis caused by sutural insufficiency). On the other hand, four group B patients had complications (three cases of transient hyperbilirubinemia and one case of postoperative bleeding: none died). The postoperative hospital stay after gastrectomy was not prolonged in group B compared with group A (A: 41.7±22.7 days; B: 46.0±25.0 days). In conclusion, simultaneous procedure of coronary artery bypass grafting and gastric surgery can be performed safely, although careful management is indispensable.
Necrotizing pancreatitis: Operating for life
Authors: Miller Brian J , Henderson Alan , Strong Russell W. , Fielding George A. , DiMarco Angela M. , O'Loughlin Barry S.
Published: October 2004

Infected necrotizing pancreatitis is the most fulminant variety of this disease. Colonic involvement and retroperitoneal fasciitis are particularly lethal. The reported mortality is up to 50%. The purpose of this study is to review our combined experience at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and the Royal Brisbane Hospital, Brisbane, to determine whether patient survival was related to a particular etiology, treatment, or complication. All patients treated since 1986 with infected pancreatitis who required surgical necrosectomy and then ventilation in the intensive care unit (ICU) were studied. There were 48 patients so managed. The median age of survivors was 52 years, and for those who died it was 64 years (p=0.001). The etiology was gallstones in 22 and alcoholism in 12. Of the alcoholics, 11 survived and 1 died. Of the patients with gallstones, 13 survived and 9 died. There was an overall mortality of 31%. Survivors were in hospital for a median of 73 days, whereas deaths occurred after a median of 35 days (p=0.04). Seven patients underwent hemofiltration; five survived, and two died. N‐Acetylcysteine has been used in four patients, of whom three survived and one died. The abdomen was left open in 38 patients and kept closed in 10. Although Ranson's criteria at admission to the ICU did not predict survival, it was found that the median APACHE II score in survivors was significantly lower than in those who died (p=0.025). However the need for colectomy or the finding of retroperitoneal fasciitis in seven patients caused a significantly higher mortality, which was not predicted by Ranson's criteria or APACHE II scores (p=0.007). Death was due to overwhelming sepsis in most cases, although 47% of patients who died had also suffered major bleeding or fistulas. Nonparametric, box plot analysis shows the following trends: (1) Alcohol was not the most common cause of necrotizing pancreatitis, nor did it carry the highest mortality. (2) Tissue adjacent to the pancreas progressively necrosed over days or weeks. (3) Low initial APACHE II scores were frequently found in patients who ultimately died with colonic necrosis and retroperitoneal fasciitis. (4) Survivors tended to be treated by open laparostomy sooner, have longer periods in hospital, and be significantly younger. In conclusion, patients do best with early, open, repeated surgical débridement of the retroperitoneum for what appears to be an ongoing process.
Proceedings of the Thirty-sixth Meeting of the Agricultural Research Modellers' Group
Authors: FRANCE J. , CROMPTON L. A.
Published: October 2004

This group, which is concerned with the applications of mathematics to agricultural science, was formed in 1970 and has since met at approximately yearly intervals in London for one-day meetings. The thirty-sixth meeting of the group, chaired by Dr T. R. Wheeler of The University of Reading, was held in the Kohn Centre at the Royal Society, 6 Carlton House Terrace, London on Friday, 26 March 2004 when the following papers were read.
Effect of spikelet removal on the grain filling of Akenohoshi, a rice cultivar with numerous spikelets in a panicle
Authors: KATO T.
Published: October 2004

The Japanese rice cultivar, Akenohoshi, has numerous spikelets in a panicle (extra-heavy panicle type) and achieves a large yield sink capacity. However, this cultivar, as well as other extra-heavy panicle types, does not always produce higher yields because of poor grain filling of the spikelets on the secondary branches in a panicle. To determine whether the poor grain filling found in Akenohoshi was due to source-limited or sink-limited conditions, the present study examined the responses of grain-filling characteristics to several spikelet-removal treatments immediately after heading. Only when the spikelets on secondary branches remained was a significant increase in filled grain percentage in this spikelet position observed. This increase seemed to be associated with the increases in rate and duration of the grain-filling process and in single grain weight in this spikelet position. These results clearly indicate that the poor grain filling in the spikelet on secondary branches of Akenohoshi could mainly be attributed not to sink-limited conditions, but to source-limited conditions probably at specific stages of grain filling.
Anti-Orpheus: narrating the dream brother
Authors: LOVESEY OLIVER
Published: October 2004

Jeff Buckley seemingly resisted entrapment by the ‘Oedipal’ myths of family, corporate rock, and the cult of dead celebrities, as well as the branding of his image and identity, but his rebellious, self-mythologising anti-narrative simulated the phantom narrative he opposed. In a postmodern context, Buckley's impossible search for absolute artistic authenticity, integrity and originality, given his ambivalence about his ethereal voice – the signature of his father – found expression in hybridised ambiance, modernist collage, and postmodern pastiche.
IMPROVING THE DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF FETAL GROWTH RESTRICTION: THE RATIONALE FOR A PLACENTA CLINIC
Authors: CHADDHA VANDANA , WHITTLE WENDY M , KINGDOM JOHN CP
Published: October 2004

Successful pregnancy outcome depends on a co-coordinated series of events in development designed to attain normal placental function. The critical importance of placental vascular development is appreciated when a wide range of pregnancy complications including preterm labour (PTL), preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM), pre-eclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), fetal demise (FD), and abruptio placenta (ABR) are all associated with restricted maternal and/or fetal blood flow, and secondary pathological lesions in the placental parenchyma. Other developmental defects of the placenta, such as its site (placenta praevia), extent of myometrial invasion (placenta accreta) or cord insertion (vasa praevia), may have major detrimental maternal and/or fetal effects if unrecognized during the antenatal period. In January 1999 we commenced a “Placenta Clinic” within the Fetal Medicine Unit at Mount Sinai Hospital (Toronto, Canada). Our rationale was that the early identification of many of these problems may, by facilitating appropriate multidisciplinary care and an elective delivery plan, reduce the attendant risks of maternal and perinatal morbidity and/or mortality due to placental malfunction.
Warum wir keinen freien Willen haben
Authors: Markowitsch Hans J.
Published: October 2004

Zusammenfassung. Der Annahme einer Willensfreiheit im Sinne des auch anders entscheiden können wird die der Determiniertheit gegenübergestellt und unter neurowissenschaftlichen Gesichtspunkten zu begründen versucht, warum ein freier Wille nicht existiert - weder im klassischen Sinn, noch so, wie er im Alltag definiert wird. Dies geschieht primär anhand neurologischer und psychiatrischer Fallbeschreibungen, daneben wird aber auch auf philosophische und psychologische Vorstellungen zurückgegriffen. Es wird aufgezeigt, dass insbesondere Patienten mit amnestischen Störungen, aber auch dementiellen Patienten eine eingeschränkte Willensfreiheit zugestanden wird, diese Eingeschränktheit aber auf jedermann zutrifft, da genetische Anlagen und vor- und nachgeburtliche Erfahrungen determinierende Prägungen implizieren, die einem freien Entscheiden im Sinne eines frei wählbaren so oder anders entgegenstehen.
Vom freien Willen zur Selbstdetermination
Authors: Goschke Thomas
Published: October 2004

Zusammenfassung. Der Begriff der Willensfreiheit ist mit einer Reihe alltagspsychologischer Intuitionen verbunden. Dazu gehört die Vorstellung, dass man auch unter identischen Bedingungen anders hätte handeln und entscheiden können, dass ein bewusstes Selbst (bzw. eine zentrale innere Steuerinstanz) Urheber willentlicher Handlungen ist und dass bewusste Absichten die unmittelbaren Auslöser von Willenshandlungen sind. Das destruktive Ziel dieses Beitrags besteht darin zu zeigen, dass es Willensfreiheit in dem Sinn, wie er sich in diesen Intuitionen ausdrückt, nicht gibt und nicht geben kann. Das konstruktive Ziel besteht darin, auf der Basis einer volitionspsychologischen Analyse der Funktionsprinzipien der willentlichen Handlungssteuerung eine alternative Konzeption von Willensfreiheit zu begründen, der zufolge willentliches Handeln nicht indeterminiert ist, sondern auf besondere Weise (durch Antizipationen von Handlungseffekten und zukünftigen Bedürfnissen) determiniert ist. Diese Interpretation von Willensfreiheit als Selbstdetermination wird abgeschwächten Versionen unserer alltagspsychologischen Intuitionen gerecht und ist vereinbar mit einem naturalistischen Weltbild und der Annahme eines kausalen Determinismus.
Kritik des freien Willens:
Authors: Prinz Wolfgang
Published: October 2004

Zusammenfassung. Wir leben in dem Verständnis, dass wir uns frei entscheiden können und dass wir uns auch immer anders entscheiden könnten, als wir es tatsächlich tun (Freiheitsintuition). Was lässt sich über Freiheitsintuitionen aus wissenschaftlicher Sicht sagen? Zur Beantwortung dieser Frage werden drei Thesen entwickelt: (1) In der wissenschaftlichen Psychologie ist für den freien Willen als theoretisches Konstrukt kein Platz. (2) Freiheitsintuitionen sind soziale Institutionen im Dienste der kollektiven Regulierung individuellen Handelns. (3) Freiheitsintuitionen sind keine Selbsttäuschungen. Sie sind psychologisch wirksam und erfüllen wichtige soziale Funktionen.
Kurzfristige Effekte inhaltlicher Medien-Frames:
Authors: Scheufele Bertram
Published: October 2004

Zusammenfassung. Der Beitrag diskutiert zunächst theoretisch und methodisch die Forschungslage zu Framing-Effekten. Dabei wird deutlich, dass bislang fast immer die Wirkung ‘formaler Frames‘ (z.B. episodischer vs. thematischer Frame) untersucht wurde. In einem Experiment untersuchten wir die Wirkung ‘inhaltlicher Frames‘ (z.B. Menschenrechts- vs. Wirtschafts-Frame). Das einfaktorielle Design mit Messwiederholung (je zwei Frames für zwei Themen) brachte unter anderem folgende Befunde: Die Medien-Frames beeinflussten die Kognitionen der Proband/inn/en, aber kaum deren Meinungen und Handlungsbereitschaft.
Space weather and the electricity market: An initial assessment
Authors: Forbes Kevin F. , St. Cyr O. C.
Published: October 2004

The paper examines the economic impact of space weather by drawing on hourly data from the PJM power grid over the period 1 June 2000 through 31 December 2001. The PJM grid is one of the largest power pools in North America. As of 31 December 2001, its service area had a population of approximately 22 million and included all or part of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Market prices are determined for every hour of the day. As of June 2000, there are actually two markets for energy: a real‐time market in which market participants can buy and sell electricity in “real time” and a day ahead market that allows participants to enter into transactions one day ahead of time. The existence of these two markets allows us to disentangle the effect of space weather conditions from other factors (such as fuel prices and expected demand) that affect the baseline price (as established in the day ahead market) for wholesale electricity. Several econometric analyses are conducted. The first examines the contribution of space weather to transmission congestion within the power grid. Building on the first analysis, the second analysis constructs an econometric model that examines the impact of space weather on the real‐time market. Factors considered in the model include the outcome in the day ahead market, the level of generation utilization, unexpected demand, generation outages, unexpected transmission outages that are believed to be terrestrial in origin, and space weather. The results indicate the presence of space weather effects on the real‐time price even after controlling for the other factors. A third model examines whether these space weather impacts affect subsequent prices in the far larger day ahead market.
Composition and structure of the central Aleutian island arc from arc‐parallel wide‐angle seismic data
Authors: Shillington Donna J. , Van Avendonk Harm J. A. , Holbrook W. Steven , Kelemen Peter B. , Hornbach Matthew J.
Published: October 2004

New results from wide‐angle seismic data collected parallel to the central Aleutian island arc require an intermediate to mafic composition for the middle crust and a mafic to ultramafic composition for the lower crust and yield lateral velocity variations that correspond to arc segmentation and trends in major element geochemistry. The 3‐D ray tracing/2.5‐D inversion of this sparse wide‐angle data set, which incorporates independent phase interpretations and new constraints on shallow velocity structure, produces a faster and smoother result than a previously published velocity model. Middle‐crustal velocities of 6.5–7.3 km/s over depths of ∼10–20 km indicate an andesitic to basaltic composition. High lower‐crustal velocities of 7.3–7.7 km/s over depths of ∼20–35 km are interpreted as ultramafic‐mafic cumulates and/or garnet granulites. The total crustal thickness is 35–37 km. This result indicates that the Aleutian island arc has higher velocities, and thus more mafic compositions, than average continental crust, implying that significant modifications would be required for this arc to be a suitable building block for continental crust. Lateral variations in average crustal velocity (below 10 km) roughly correspond to trends in major element geochemistry of primitive (Mg # > 0.6) lavas. The highest lower‐crustal velocities (and presumably most mafic material) are detected in the center of an arc segment, between Unmak and Unalaska Islands, implying that arc segmentation exerts control over crustal composition.
Lateral variations of crustal seismic attenuation along the INDEPTH profiles in Tibet from Lg Q inversion
Authors: Xie J. , Gok R. , Ni J. , Aoki Y.
Published: October 2004

Fourier spectra of crustal guided Lg waves are collected to study seismic attenuation, or Q, along the INDEPTH profiles. The 1 Hz Lg Q (Q0) values are measured between many pairs of two stations and input to a back projection algorithm to obtain laterally varying Q0 models. Along the INDEPTH III profile in central Tibet, the Q0 model consists of low and nearly constant values of ∼90. These low values are consistent with abnormally high temperature as well as partial melts in the crust. Along the INDEPTH II profile in southern Tibet the Q0 values increase southward. They are extremely low (∼60) over the northernmost segment but increase by a factor of 2 over a distance of ∼100 km between the Indus‐Yalong Suture and the Kangmar Dome. Farther south and into the high Himalayas, Q0 values are higher than 300. Regional Rayleigh waves observed along the northern INDEPTH II profile are used to infer a low‐velocity, low‐Q layer at midcrustal depths (between ∼15 and 30 km) in southern Tibet. The aqueous fluid trapped in the upper crust and a midcrust partial melting zone, associated with the underthrusting of the Indian lithosphere, are the likely causes of the high Lg attenuation in southern Tibet. Low Q, rather then a systematic Lg conversion along a dipping Moho, is the main cause of the previously observed Lg blockage over paths crossing the southern Tibetan boundary.
Identification of quartzofeldspathic materials on Mars
Authors: Bandfield Joshua L. , Hamilton Victoria E. , Christensen Philip R. , McSween Harry Y.
Published: October 2004

A unique spectral component has been identified near and on the central peaks of two 30 km diameter craters in northern Syrtis Major. These exposures are clearly visible in Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) color radiance images as well as THEMIS and Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) surface emissivity data. Both TES and THEMIS data indicate the presence of increased 1050–1250 cm−1 (∼8–9.5 μm) absorption compared to the surrounding basaltic plains, and TES data also display other absorptions at 400, 470, and 800 cm−1 (∼25, 20, and 12 μm) consistent with the presence of quartz. Ratio and isolated central peak spectral unit spectra match laboratory emissivity spectra of granitoid rocks composed primarily of quartz and plagioclase feldspar. Deconvolution results also indicate that the surface contains quartz and feldspar in addition to a high‐Si glass and/or sheet silicate component. Because central peak materials are brought up from depth during the cratering event, the association of the quartzofeldspathic mineralogy with the central peaks of the craters indicates that the quartz‐bearing material was excavated from depth. The occurrence in the two adjacent craters may imply a granitoid pluton of considerable extent. A plausible formation mechanism for this relatively silicic material may be similar to that of terrestrial trondhjemites, which do not require plate tectonics. The rarity of the exposures implies that the process that formed the granitoid composition was probably not widespread. The presence of quartz‐bearing material on Mars indicates that mechanisms that produce highly differentiated magmas have been present and extends the diversity of surface compositions identified.
Study of the long-time dynamics of a viscous vortex sheet with a fully adaptive nonstiff method
Authors: Ceniceros Hector D. , Roma Alexandre M.
Published: October 2004

A numerical investigation of the long-time dynamics of two immiscible two-dimensional fluids shearing past one another is presented. The fluids are incompressible and the interface between the bulk phases is subjected to surface tension. The simple case of density and viscosity matched fluids is considered. The two-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations are solved numerically with a fully adaptive nonstiff strategy based on the immersed boundary method. Dynamically adaptive mesh refinements are used to cover at all times the separately tracked fluid interface at the finest grid level. In addition, by combining adaptive front tracking, in the form of continuous interface marker equidistribution, with a predictor–corrector discretization an efficient method is introduced to successfully treat the well-known numerical difficulties associated with surface tension. The resulting numerical method can be used to compute stably and with high resolution the flow for wide-ranging Weber numbers but this study focuses on the computationally challenging cases for which elongated fingering and interface roll-up are observed. To assess the importance of the viscous and vortical effects in the interfacial dynamics the full viscous flow simulations are compared with inviscid counterparts computed with a state-of-the-art boundary integral method. In the examined cases of roll-up, it is found that in contrast to the inviscid flow in which the interface undergoes a topological reconfiguration, the viscous interface remarkably escapes self-intersection and rich long-time dynamics due to separation, transport, and diffusion of vorticity is observed. An even more striking motion occurs at an intermediate Weber number for which elongated interpenetrating fingers of fluid develop. In this case, it is found that the Kelvin–Helmholtz instability weakens due to shedding of vorticity and unlike the inviscid counterpart in which there is indefinite finger growth the viscous interface is pulled back by surface tension. As the interface recedes, thin necks connecting pockets of fluid with the rest of the fingers form. Narrow jets are observed at the necking regions but the vorticity there ultimately appears to be insufficient to drain all the fluid and cause reconnection. However, at another point, two disparate portions of the interface come in close proximity as the interface continues to contract. Large curvature points and an intense concentration of vorticity are observed in this region and then the motion is abruptly terminated by the collapse of the interface.
A practical method to experimentally evaluate the Hausdorff dimension: An alternative phase-transition-based methodology
Authors: Li Jun , Arneodo Alain , Nekka Fahima
Published: October 2004

We introduce a methodology to estimate numerically the Hausdorff dimension of a geometric set. This practical method has been conceived as a subsequent tool of another context study, associated to our concern to distinguish between various fractal sets. Its conception is natural since it can be related to the original idea involved in the definitions of Hausdorff measure and Hausdorff dimension. It is based on the critical behavior of the measure spectrum functions of the set around its Hausdorff dimension value. We illustrate on several well-known examples, the ability of this method to accurately estimate the Hausdorff dimension. Also, we show how the transition property, exhibited by the quantities used as substitutes of the Hausdorff measure in the corresponding fractal dimension relationships, can be used to accurately estimate the fractal dimension. To show the potential of our method, we also report the results of Hausdorff dimension measurements on some typical examples, compared to a direct application of the scaling relation involved in the box-counting dimension definition.
The Rai (Shc C) adaptor protein regulates the neuronal stress response and protects against cerebral ischemia
Authors: Troglio Flavia , Echart Cinara , Gobbi Alberto , Pawson Tony , Pelicci Pier Giuseppe , De Simoni Maria Grazia , Pelicci Giuliana
Published: October 2004

Rai (Shc C or N-Shc) is a neuron-specific member of the family of Shc-like adaptor proteins. Rai functions in the cytoplasmic propagation of Ret-dependent survival signals and regulates,
in vivo
, the number of sympathetic neurons. We report here a function of Rai, i.e., the regulation of the neuronal adaptive response to environmental stresses. We demonstrate that (
i
) primary cultures of cortical neurons from Rai
-/-
mice are more sensitive to apoptosis induced by hypoxia or oxidative stress; (
ii
) in Rai
-/-
mice, ischemia/reperfusion injury induces severe neurological deficits, increased apoptosis and size of the infarct area, and significantly higher mortality; and (
iii
) Rai functions as a stress-response gene that increases phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation and Akt phosphorylation after hypoxic or oxidation insults. These data suggest that Rai has a functional neuroprotective role in brain injury, with possible implications in the treatment of stroke.
Pain in femoral arteriography: A double-blind, randomized, clinical study comparing safety and efficacy of the iso-osmolar iodixanol 270mgI/ml and the low-osmolar iomeprol 300 mgI/ml in 9 European centers
Authors: Manke C. , Marcus C. , Page A. , Puey J. , Batakis O. , Fog A.
Published: October 2004

Purpose: To compare the injection-associated pain and heat sensation after administration of the iso-osmolar contrast medium (IOCM) iodixanol (Visipaque™ 270 mg I/ml) and the low osmolar contrast medium (LOCM) iomeprol (Iomeron™ 300 mg I/ml) in femoral arteriography.

Material and Methods: 352 patients received iodixanol or iomeprol in a prospective, double-blind, randomized, parallel-group clinical trial. The first injection during femoral arteriography (DSA with automated stepping) was standardized. Injection-associated pain and heat sensation, efficacy and safety up to 72 h were evaluated.

Results: The iodixanol group reported significant less injection-associated pain than the iomeprol group after the first injection (7.4% vs. 17.6%; p = 0.007), and after all injections (11% vs. 19.4%; p = 0.045). Iodixanol caused less heat sensation after the first injection ( p = 0.007) and after all injections ( p = 0.029). Heat sensations in the iodixanol group were less intense after all injections ( p < 0.0001). No difference was found between the groups regarding the frequency of patients having adverse reactions (5.1% vs. 4%).

Conclusion: The IOCM iodixanol caused significantly less frequent injection-associated pain and heat sensation than the LOCM iomeprol during femoral arteriography.
Conventional and diffusion-weighted MRI in the evaluation of methanol poisoning
Authors: Server A. , Hovda K. E. , Nakstad P. Hj. , Jacobsen D. , Dullerud R. , Haakonsen M.
Published: October 2004

Cerebral lesions were studied in 2 methanol-poisoned patients using conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In 1 patient, diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) was also performed. In this patient, conventional MRI showed symmetrical, bilateral increased signal in the lentiform nuclei, involving predominantly putamina, but also extending into the corona radiata, centrum semiovale and subcortical white matter. DWI showed decreased diffusion, which most probably reflects cytotoxic edema. In the other patient, fluid attenuated-inversion recovery (FLAIR) and T2-weighted images showed hyperintensity in the putamina, characteristic of post-necrotic changes.
Subluxation of the ulnar nerve in the elbow region – ultrasonographic evaluation
Authors: Grechenig W. , Mayr J. , Peicha G. , Boldin C.
Published: October 2004

Chronic ulnar nerve subluxation out of its sulcus in the elbow region may be a rare reason for undefined chronic disorders in the medial elbow aspect. We present two cases, a 38-year-old male patient complaining of a recurrent painful disorder including paresthesia of the 4th and 5th fingers and a 12-year-old boy presenting with a palpable band in the medial elbow region without pain.

Ultrasonography was performed using a high frequency linear probe in the longitudinal and horizontal planes including dynamic examination. In both patients, the ulnar nerve was completely identified, both in the transverse and longitudinal planes. The sonomorphology and echogeneity of the nerve were the same as in the contralateral limb. Ulnar nerve subluxation was diagnosed in elbow joint flexion, in both cases. It is possible through dynamic ultrasonographic examination to diagnose and document ulnar nerve subluxation for further (surgical) treatment.
Selective intraarterial fibrinolysis of acute central retinal artery occlusion
Authors: Butz B. , Strotzer M. , Manke C. , Roider J. , Link J. , Lenhart M.
Published: October 2004

Purpose: To evaluate the outcome of our patients with central retinal artery occlusion after local fibrinolysis and to compare these data with results reported in the literature.

Material and Methods: Over a period of 7 years, 22 patients (11 male, 11 female, mean age 64.6 ± 12.1 years) were treated with super-selective local fibrinolysis. In 1 case, treatment was carried out via the maxillary-ophthalmic anastomoses due to preexisting occlusion of the ipsilateral internal carotid artery. The latency period from the onset of symptoms to the beginning of therapy was 7.6 ± 1.8 h. Urokinase was used in 7 cases (300,000–1.1 million units) and recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (20–40 mg) was applied in 15 patients. Visual acuity and fundus were examined before and after treatment.

Results: One patient (1/22 = 4.6%) recovered completely and regained a visual acuity of 20/20. Six patients (6/22 = 27.3%) showed a marked improvement with a range of visual outcome from 20/800 to 20/320. In 2 cases (2/22 = 9.1%) only a slight improvement was observed, with a visual outcome allowing detection of hand movements. In 13 cases (13/22 = 59.1%) no change in visual acuity as a result of treatment was observed. In 2/22 cases (9.2%) reversible neurological side-effects occurred, in 1 case suffered a stroke, and in another case intracerebral bleeding was observed.

Conclusion: In our study, the recovery of visual acuity and the complication rate were not as positive as reported in the literature.
Specific Antibody Production by Blood B Cells is Retained in Late Stage Drug‐naïve HIV‐infected Africans
Authors: Béniguel Lydie , Bégaud Evelyne , Cognasse Fabrice , Gabrié Philippe , Mbolidi Christophe D. , Marovich Mary A. , Cazorla Céline , Lucht Frédéric , Genin Christian , Garraud Olivier
Published: October 2004

Unseparated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from
drug‐naïve African individuals living in a context of multi‐infections and presenting
with high viral load (VL), were cultured in vitro and tested for their ability to produce
antibodies (Abs) reacting with HIV‐1 antigens. Within these PBMCs, circulating
B cells were differentiated in vitro and produced IgG Abs against not only ENV, but
also GAG and POL proteins. Under similar experimental conditions, HAART treated
patients produced Abs to ENV proteins only. The in vitro antibody production by
drug‐naïve individuals′ PBMCs depended on exogenous cytokines (IL‐2 and IL‐10)
but neither on the re‐stimulation of reactive cells in cultures by purified HIV‐1‐gp
160 antigen nor on the re‐engagement of CD40 surface molecules. Further, it was
not abrogated by the addition of various monoclonal Abs (mAbs) to co‐stimulatory
molecules. This suggests that the in vitro antibody production by drug‐naïve
individuals′ PBMCs resulted from the maturation of already envelope and core
antigen‐primed, differentiated B cells, presumably pre‐plasma cells, which are
not known to circulate at homeostasy. As in vitro produced Abs retained the
capacity of binding antigen and forming complexes, this study provides
pre‐clinical support for functional humoral
responses despite major HIV‐ and other tropical pathogen‐induced B cell
perturbations.
Progress in Defining the Role of RSV in Allergy and Asthma: From Clinical Observations to Animal Models
Authors: Kalina W. V. , Gershwin L. J.
Published: October 2004

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), an RNA virus in the family
Paramyxoviridae, causes respiratory disease in humans. A closely related bovine
RSV is responsible for a remarkably similar disease syndrome in young cattle.
Severe RSV disease is characterized by bronchiolitis. The impact of RSV on human
health is demonstrated annually when infants are admitted to the hospital in
large numbers. Nearly every child will have been infected with RSV by the age
of 3 years. While the disease is most severe in young infants and elderly people, it
can re‐infect adults causing mild upper respiratory tract disease throughout life. In
addition, there is growing evidence that RSV infection may also predispose some
children to the development of asthma. This is based on the observation that
children who wheeze with RSV‐induced bronchiolitis are more likely to develop into
allergic asthmatics. Recent studies describe attempts to create an RSV induced
asthma model in mice and other species; these have shown some degree of
success. Such reports of case studies and animal models have suggested a wide
range of factors possibly contributing to RSV induced asthma, these include timing
of RSV infection with respect to allergen exposure, prior allergic sensitization,
environmental conditions, exposure to endotoxin, and the genetic background
of the person or animal. Herein, we primarily focus on the influence of RSV
infection and inhalation of extraneous substances (such as allergens or endotoxin)
on
development of allergic asthma.