bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Random-Effects Proportional Hazards Model with Grouped Survival Data: A Comparison Between the Grouped Continuous and Continuation Ratio Versions
Authors: Grilli Leonardo
Published: December 2004

When analysing grouped time survival data having a hierarchical structure it is often appropriate to assume a random-effects proportional hazards model for the latent continuous time and then to derive the corresponding grouped time model. There are two formally equivalent grouped time versions of the proportional hazards model obtained from different perspec-tives, known as the continuation ratio and the grouped continuous models. However, the two models require distinct estimation procedures and, more importantly, they differ substantially when extended to time-dependent covariates and/or non-proportional effects. The paper discusses these issues in the context of random-effects models, illustrating the main points with an application to a complex data set on job opportunities for a cohort of graduates.
The Ubiquitous Angle
Authors: Wood Graham R. , Saville David J.
Published: December 2004

Previously we used the geometry of n-dimensional space to derive the paired samples t-test and its p-value. In the present paper we describe the ‘ubiquitous’ application of these results to single degree of freedom linear model hypothesis tests. As examples, we derive the p- and t-values for the independent samples t-test, for testing a contrast in an analysis of variance and for testing the slope in a simple linear regression analysis. An angle θ in n-dimensional space is again pivotal in the development of the ideas. The relationships between p, t, θ, F and the correlation coefficient are also described by using a ‘statistical triangle’.
Robust, Accurate Confidence Intervals with a Weak Instrument: Quarter of Birth and Education
Authors: Imbens Guido W. , Rosenbaum Paul R.
Published: December 2004

An instrument or instrumental variable manipulates a treatment and affects the outcome only indirectly through its manipulation of the treatment. For instance, encouragement to exercise might increase cardiovascular fitness, but only indirectly to the extent that it increases exercise. If instrument levels are randomly assigned to individuals, then the instrument may permit consistent estimation of the effects caused by the treatment, even though the treatment assignment itself is far from random. For instance, one can conduct a randomized experiment assigning some subjects to ‘encouragement to exercise’ and others to ‘no encouragement’ but, for reasons of habit or taste, some subjects will not exercise when encouraged and others will exercise without encouragement; none-the-less, such an instrument aids in estimating the effect of exercise. Instruments that are weak, i.e. instruments that have only a slight effect on the treatment, present inferential problems. We evaluate a recent proposal for permutation inference with an instrumental variable in four ways: using Angrist and Krueger's data on the effects of education on earnings using quarter of birth as an instrument, following Bound, Jaeger and Baker in using simulated independent observations in place of the instrument in Angrist and Krueger's data, using entirely simulated data in which correct answers are known and finally using statistical theory to show that only permutation inferences maintain correct coverage rates. The permutation inferences perform well in both easy and hard cases, with weak instruments, as well as with long-tailed responses.
The Survival of Newly Founded Firms: A Case-Study into Varying-Coefficient Models
Authors: Kauermann Göran , Tutz Gerhard , Brüderl Josef
Published: December 2004

The success of a newly founded firm depends on various initial risk factors or start-up conditions such as the market that the business is aiming for, the experience and the age of the founder, the preparation before the launch, the financial frame and the legal form of the firm. These risk factors determine the chance of survival for the venture. However, the effects of these risk factors may change with time. Some effects may vanish whereas others remain constant. We analyse the survival of 1123 newly founded firms in the state of Bavaria, Germany. Our focus is on the investigation of time variation in the effects of risk factors. Time variation is tackled within the framework of varying-coefficient models, where time smoothly modifies the effects of risk factors. An important issue in our analysis is the separation of risk factors which have time-varying effects from those which have time constant effects. We make use of the Akaike criterion to separate these two types of risk factor.
A Comparison Study of Realtime Fatality Rates: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Toronto and Beijing, China
Authors: Yip Paul S. F. , Lam K. F. , Lau Eric H. Y. , Chau Pui-Hing , Tsang Kenneth W. , Chao Anne
Published: December 2004

In an outbreak of a completely new infectious disease like severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), estimation of the fatality rate over the course of the epidemic is of clinical and epidemiological importance. In contrast with the constant case fatality rate, a new measure, termed the ‘realtime’ fatality rate, is proposed for monitoring the new emerging epidemic at a population level. A competing risk model implemented via a counting process is used to estimate the realtime fatality rate in an epidemic of SARS. It can capture and reflect the time-varying nature of the fatality rate over the course of the outbreak in a timely and accurate manner. More importantly, it can provide information on the efficacy of a certain treatment and management policy for the disease. The method has been applied to the SARS data from the regions affected, namely Hong Kong, Singapore, Toronto, Taiwan and Beijing. The magnitudes and patterns of the estimated fatalities are virtually the same except in Beijing, which has a lower rate. It is speculated that the effect is linked to the different treatment protocols that were used. The standard estimate of the case fatality rate that was used by the World Health Organization has been shown to be unable to provide useful information to monitor the time-varying fatalities that are caused by the epidemic.
Integrating Intellectual Property Concepts into MIS Education: An Empirical Assessment*
Authors: Mykytyn Peter P. , Mykytyn Kathleen , Harrison David A.
Published: December 2004

The evolving legal environment surrounding intellectual property (IP) and its impact on information systems, especially involving electronic commerce, and the type of education and training provided by management information systems (MIS) faculty to MIS students is a relationship that has not been investigated. Although organizations are confronted with IP infringement actions dealing with copyright, trademark, and their relationship to information systems, these issues are not adequately dealt with in MIS courses and programs today. These include improper posting of copyrighted material onto Web sites, improper use of metatags, and inappropriate deep linking and framing. Metatags, linking, and framing are often integral components of e‐commerce and web development coursework. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), this study surveyed 122 MIS academics to ascertain their intentions to incorporate these IP concepts into their MIS courses. The results strongly support the TPB constructs regarding faculty members' intentions to incorporate these issues. Follow‐up contacts with a number of respondents also showed very strong support for academics actually incorporating these issues into their coursework.
Angiolipoma of the buccal mucosa: a possible role of mast cell‐derived VEGF in its enhanced vascularity
Authors: Ida‐Yonemochi Hiroko , Swelam Wael , Saito Chikara , Saku Takashi
Published: December 2004

A case of angiolipoma occurring in the buccal mucosa of a 69‐year‐old male is described. The patient had noticed a painless mass in his buccal mucosa for 2 years. The surgically removed tumor, measuring 9 mm in diameter, was mainly located in the submucosal layer with focal expansion into the muscle layer. Histologically, the tumor was well‐demarcated and composed of proliferations of mature fat cells and fibrous connective tissue containing many small blood vessels, which were evenly distributed. There was diffuse infiltration of a large number of mast cells, which were immunopositive for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) especially around blood vessels, suggesting that VEGF produced by mast cells in angiolipomas plays an important role in the vascular proliferation in this particular tumor.
Acquired macroglossia due to lopinavir/ritonavir treatment
Authors: Vritsali Eleni , Kolokotronis Alexandros , Valagouti Despina , Miteloudis Georgios , Zaraboukas Thomas , Kioses Vassilios , Antoniades Demetrios
Published: December 2004

A HIV‐positive patient, 3 months after the treatment initiation with lopinavir‐/ritonavir (LPV/r) acquired macroglossia. The tongue biopsy revealed mature adipose tissue accumulated into submucosa. The drug was discontinued and the patient showed a significant improvement. This case is the first case in the medical literature of acquired macroglossia because of LPV/r, a drug causing changes in body fat composition.
Differentials in Adult Mortality and Activity Limitation by Years of Education in the United States at the End of the 1990s
Authors: Molla Michael T. , Madans Jennifer H. , Wagener Diane K.
Published: December 2004

This study examines mortality differentials and health disparities between educational groups within the 1998 adult population (ages 25 and older) in the United States. Mortality differentials are measured using average life expectancy and health disparities by expected years without activity limitation. The results indicate that for both sexes, higher education is associated with higher life expectancy. Those with higher levels of education also have higher life expectancy without activity limitation. Adults with higher education can also expect to enjoy a greater percentage of their expected lives free of any form of activity limitation. At each level of education, adult females have a higher level of activity limitation compared to adult males. At the same level of education, adult females expect to enjoy smaller percentages of their remaining lives free of activity limitation compared to adult males of the same age.
Renal Cell Carcinoma Detected by Screening Shows Better Patient Survival Than That Detected Following Symptoms in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Ishikawa Isao , Honda Ryumon , Yamada Yuichi , Kakuma Tatsuyuki
Published: December 2004

Abstract:  There is an apparent advantage to early or incidental diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma in the general population. We investigated whether the prognosis of dialysis patients with renal cell carcinoma is better if renal cell carcinoma is detected by screening of patients without symptoms rather than by examination after the appearance of the symptoms. Two groups in which renal cell carcinomas were detected by screening (N = 721) and by symptoms (n = 76) were compared. The model tested consisted of patient age and duration of dialysis in addition to the detection by screening or symptoms. Cox proportional hazard model was used to compare survival rates between the groups. The hazard ratio of death from all causes in patients with renal cell carcinoma detection by screening was 0.653 and the risk of death was reduced by 35%, compared with that in the group with detection due to symptoms. Moreover, the 50% survival rate in the group detected by symptoms was 80 months and the ratio of those detected by screening was 119 months. Therefore, screening provided a survival benefit of 39 months (3.3 years) in death from all causes after adjustment for age and duration of dialysis. The survival rate was best in young patients with a short duration of dialysis and renal cell carcinoma detected by screening. In dialysis patients with renal cell carcinoma, the survival rate in the group detected by screening was better than that in the group detected by symptoms. Especially, there was a large effect of screening for renal cell carcinoma in the young dialysis patients.
Systemic Priming-Boosting Immunization with a Trivalent Plasmid DNA and Inactivated Murine Cytomegalovirus (MCMV) Vaccine Provides Long-Term Protection against Viral Replication following Systemic or Mucosal MCMV Challenge
Authors: Morello Christopher S. , Ye Ming , Hung Stephanie , Kelley Laura A. , Spector Deborah H.
Published: December 2004

We previously demonstrated that vaccination of BALB/c mice with a pool of 13 plasmid DNAs (pDNAs) expressing murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) genes followed by formalin-inactivated MCMV (FI-MCMV) resulted in complete protection against viral replication in the spleen and salivary glands following sublethal intraperitoneal (i.p.) challenge. Here, we found that following intranasal (i.n.) challenge, titers of virus in the lungs of the immunized mice were reduced approximately 1,000-fold relative to those for mock-immunized controls. We next sought to extend these results and to determine whether similar protection levels could be achieved by priming with a pool of three pDNAs containing three key plasmids (
IE1
,
M84
, and gB). We found that the three-pDNA priming elicited IE1- and
M84
-p65-specific CD8
+
T lymphocytes and, following FI-MCMV boost, high levels of virion-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) and virus-neutralizing antibodies. When mice were i.n. challenged 4 months after the last boost, titers of virus in the lungs of immunized mice were reduced 1,000- to 2,000-fold from those for controls during the peak of viral replication. Additionally, titers of virus were either at or below the detection limits for the salivary glands, liver, and spleen of the majority of the immunized mice. Following sublethal i.p. challenge, virus was undetectable in all of the above target organs of the immunized mice. Virion-specific IgA in the lungs was consistently detected by day 6 post-i.n. challenge for the immunized mice and by day 14 for controls. These results demonstrate the immunity and high levels of protection of the priming-boosting vaccination against both systemic and mucosal challenge.
Cyclophilin Interactions with Incoming Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Capsids with Opposing Effects on Infectivity in Human Cells
Authors: Hatziioannou Theodora , Perez-Caballero David , Cowan Simone , Bieniasz Paul D.
Published: December 2004

Cyclophilin A (CypA) is a peptidyl-prolyl isomerase that binds to the capsid protein (CA) of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and by doing so facilitates HIV-1 replication. Although CypA is incorporated into HIV-1 virions by virtue of CypA-Gag interactions that occur during virion assembly, in this study we show that the CypA-CA interaction that occurs following the entry of the viral capsid into target cells is the major determinant of CypA's effects on HIV-1 replication. Specifically, by using normal and CypA-deficient Jurkat cells, we demonstrate that the presence of CypA in the target and not the virus-producing cell enhances HIV-1 infectivity. Moreover, disruption of the CypA-CA interaction with cyclosporine A (CsA) inhibits HIV-1 infectivity only if the target cell expresses CypA. The effect of CsA on HIV-1 infection of human cells varies according to which particular cell line is used as a target, and CA mutations that confer CsA resistance and dependence exert their effects only if target cells, and not if virus-producing cells, are treated with CsA. The differential effects of CsA on HIV-1 infection in different human cells appear not to be caused by polymorphisms in the recently described retrovirus restriction factor TRIM5α. We speculate that CypA and/or CypA-related proteins affect the fate of incoming HIV-1 capsid either directly or by modulating interactions with unidentified host cell factors.
Novel Strategy for Generation and Titration of Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus Vectors
Authors: Shiau Ai-Li , Liu Pu-Ste , Wu Chao-Liang
Published: December 2004

Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors have many advantages for gene therapeutic applications compared with other vector systems. Several methods that use plasmids or helper viruses have been reported for the generation of rAAV vectors. Unfortunately, the preparation of large-scale rAAV stocks is labor-intensive. Moreover, the biological titration of rAAV is still difficult, which may limit its preclinical and clinical applications. For this study, we developed a novel strategy to generate and biologically titrate rAAV vectors. A recombinant pseudorabies virus (PrV) with defects in its gD, gE, and thymidine kinase genes was engineered to express the AAV
rep
and
cap
genes, yielding PS virus, which served as a packaging and helper virus for the generation of rAAV vectors. PS virus was useful not only for generating high-titer rAAV vectors by cotransfection with an rAAV vector plasmid, but also for amplifying rAAV stocks. Notably, the biological titration of rAAV vectors was also feasible when cells were coinfected with rAAV and PS virus. Based on this strategy, we produced an rAAV that expresses prothymosin α (ProT). Expression of the ProT protein in vitro and in vivo mediated by rAAV/ProT gene transfer was detected by immunohistochemistry and a bioassay. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the PrV vector-based system is useful for generating rAAV vectors carrying various transgenes.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Infection of Golden Syrian Hamsters
Authors: Roberts Anjeanette , Vogel Leatrice , Guarner Jeannette , Hayes Norman , Murphy Brian , Zaki Sherif , Subbarao Kanta
Published: December 2004

Small animal models are needed in order to evaluate the efficacy of candidate vaccines and antivirals directed against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS CoV). We investigated the ability of SARS CoV to infect 5-week-old Golden Syrian hamsters. When administered intranasally, SARS CoV replicates to high titers in the lungs and nasal turbinates. Peak replication in the lower respiratory tract was noted on day 2 postinfection (p.i.) and was cleared by day 7 p.i. Low levels of virus were present in the nasal turbinates of a few hamsters at 14 days p.i. Viral replication in epithelial cells of the respiratory tract was accompanied by cellular necrosis early in infection, followed by an inflammatory response coincident with viral clearance, focal consolidation in pulmonary tissue, and eventual pulmonary tissue repair. Despite high levels of virus replication and associated pathology in the respiratory tract, the hamsters showed no evidence of disease. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in sera at day 7 p.i., and mean titers at day 28 p.i. exceeded 1:400. Hamsters challenged with SARS CoV at day 28 p.i. were completely protected from virus replication and accompanying pathology in the respiratory tract. Comparing these data to the mouse model, SARS CoV replicates to a higher titer and for a longer duration in the respiratory tract of hamsters and is accompanied by significant pathology that is absent in mice. Viremia and extrapulmonary spread of SARS CoV to liver and spleen, which are seen in hamsters, were not detected in mice. The hamster, therefore, is superior to the mouse as a model for the evaluation of antiviral agents and candidate vaccines against SARS CoV replication.
Ebola Virus Glycoprotein Toxicity Is Mediated by a Dynamin-Dependent Protein-Trafficking Pathway
Authors: Sullivan Nancy J. , Peterson Mary , Yang Zhi-yong , Kong Wing-pui , Duckers Heinricus , Nabel Elizabeth , Nabel Gary J.
Published: December 2004

Ebola virus infection causes a highly lethal hemorrhagic fever syndrome associated with profound immunosuppression through its ability to induce widespread inflammation and cellular damage. Though GP, the viral envelope glycoprotein, mediates many of these effects, the molecular events that underlie Ebola virus cytopathicity are poorly understood. Here, we define a cellular mechanism responsible for Ebola virus GP cytotoxicity. GP selectively decreased the expression of cell surface molecules that are essential for cell adhesion and immune function. GP dramatically reduced levels of αVβ3 without affecting the levels of α2β1 or cadherin, leading to cell detachment and death. This effect was inhibited in vitro and in vivo by brefeldin A and was dependent on dynamin, the GTPase. GP also decreased cell surface expression of major histocompatibility complex class I molecules, which alters recognition by immune cells, and this effect was also dependent on the mucin domain previously implicated in GP cytotoxicity. By altering the trafficking of select cellular proteins, Ebola virus GP inflicts cell damage and may facilitate immune escape by the virus.
Synchronized Infection of Cell Cultures by Magnetically Controlled Virus
Authors: Haim Hillel , Steiner Israel , Panet Amos
Published: December 2004

To override the diffusion-limited adsorption step of viral infection, we magnetically synchronized cell attachment. Human immunodeficiency virus type 1-based lentivirus preparations were rendered magnetically reactive by association with magnetite nanoparticles, 50 nm in diameter. Application of a magnetic field resulted in immediate redistribution of the viral inoculum to the cell-associated state and completion of the productive adsorption process within 1 min. Independent of adsorption time, viral concentration, and diffusion rate, infection subsequently progressed by the receptor-mediated entry mechanism. Synchronization of this rate-limiting step of infection may now be applied to analyze isolated events in the viral replication sequence.
Interaction with Coxsackievirus and Adenovirus Receptor, but Not with Decay-Accelerating Factor (DAF), Induces A-Particle Formation in a DAF-Binding Coxsackievirus B3 Isolate
Authors: Milstone Aaron M. , Petrella JenniElizabeth , Sanchez Melissa D. , Mahmud Mariam , Whitbeck J. Charles , Bergelson Jeffrey M.
Published: December 2004

Although many coxsackie B viruses interact with decay accelerating factor (DAF), attachment to DAF by itself is not sufficient to initiate infection. We examined the early events in infection that follow virus interaction with DAF, and with the coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR). Interaction with soluble CAR in a cell-free system, or with CAR on the surfaces of transfected cells, induced the formation of A particles; interaction with soluble or cell surface DAF did not. The results suggest that CAR, but not DAF, is capable of initiating the conformational changes in the viral capsid that lead to release of viral nucleic acid.
Analysis of Wild-Type and Mutant SL3-3 Murine Leukemia Virus Insertions in the c-mycPromoter during Lymphomagenesis Reveals Target Site Hot Spots, Virus-Dependent Patterns, and Frequent Error-Prone Gap Repair
Authors: Nielsen Anne Ahlmann , Sørensen Annette Balle , Schmidt Jörg , Pedersen Finn Skou
Published: December 2004

The murine leukemia retrovirus SL3-3 induces lymphomas in the T-cell compartment of the hematopoetic system when it is injected into newborn mice of susceptible strains. Previously, our laboratory reported on a deletion mutant of SL3-3 that induces T-cell tumors faster than the wild-type virus (S. Ethelberg, A. B. Sørensen, J. Schmidt, A. Luz, and F. S. Pedersen, J. Virol. 71:9796-9799, 1997). PCR analyses of proviral integrations in the promoter region of the c-mycproto-oncogene in lymphomas induced by wild-type SL3-3 [SL3-3(wt)] and the enhancer deletion mutant displayed a difference in targeting frequency into this locus. We here report on patterns of proviral insertions into the c-mycpromoter region from SL3-3(wt), the faster variant, as well as other enhancer variants from a total of approximately 250 tumors. The analysis reveals (i) several integration site hot spots in the c-mycpromoter region, (ii) differences in integration patterns between SL3-3(wt) and enhancer deletion mutant viruses, (iii) a correlation between tumor latency and the number of proviral insertions into the c-mycpromoter, and (iv) a [5′-(A/C/G)TA(C/G/T)-3′] integration site consensus sequence. Unexpectedly, about 12% of the sequenced insertions were associated with point mutations in the direct repeat flanking the provirus. Based on these results, we propose a model for error-prone gap repair of host-provirus junctions.
SPIN NETWORK SETTING OF TOPOLOGICAL QUANTUM COMPUTATION
Authors: MARZUOLI ANNALISA , RASETTI MARIO
Published: December 2004

The spin network simulator model represents a bridge between (generalized) circuit schemes for standard quantum computation and approaches based on notions from Topological Quantum Field Theories (TQFTs). The key tool is provided by the fiber space structure underlying the model which exhibits combinatorial properties closely related to SU (2) state sum models, widely employed in discretizing TQFTs and quantum gravity in low spacetime dimensions.
A STUDY OF STATISTICAL ENSEMBLE USING FUZZY LOGIC AND DENSITY MATRIX
Authors: AHMED ALAUDDIN , RAHMAN MD. TAUFIQUR , ANWER MOHAMMAD
Published: December 2004

We use fuzzy logic for the probabilistic interpretation of statistical ensemble and compare the result with the density matrix results for quantum entanglement.
SPATIAL BELL STATE MEASUREMENT OF TWO PARTICLES
Authors: AKHAVAN O. , REZAKHANI A. T. , GOLSHANI M.
Published: December 2004

Using spatial entanglement of two particles the rate of classical information gain has been increased by a logarithmic factor depending on the dimension of Hilbert space. To study Bell state measurement (BSM) of the two particles, at first, we have defined corresponding Bell bases in a typically general form. Then, the basic position gates are theoretically designed by side quantum channels and the usual CNOT gate. All the processes required in the BSM can be established based upon the introduced local and conditional basic gates.
STATE TRANSFER INSTEAD OF TELEPORTATION IN MEASUREMENT-BASED QUANTUM COMPUTATION
Authors: PERDRIX SIMON
Published: December 2004

Quantum measurement is universal for quantum computation. The model of quantum computation introduced by Nielsen and further developed by Leung relies on a generalized form of teleportation. In order to simulate any n-qubit unitary transformation with this model, four auxiliary qubits are required. Moreover Leung exhibited a universal family of observables composed of one one-qubit measurement and four two-qubit measurements. We introduce a model of quantum computation via measurements only, relying on state transfer: state transfer only retains the part of teleportation which is necessary for computation. In order to simulate any n-qubit unitary transformation with this new model, only one auxiliary qubit is required. Moreover we exhibit a universal family of observables composed of three one-qubit measurements and only one two-qubit measurement. This model improves those of Nielsen and Leung in terms of both the number of auxiliary qubits and the number of two-qubit measurements required for quantum universality. In both cases, the minimal amounts of necessary resources are now reached: one auxiliary qubit (because measurement is destructive) and one two-qubit measurement (for creating entanglement).
A NOVEL PROTOCOL-AUTHENTICATION ALGORITHM RULING OUT A MAN-IN-THE MIDDLE ATTACK IN QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY
Authors: PEEV M. , NÖLLE M. , MAURHARDT O. , LORÜNSER T. , SUDA M. , POPPE A. , URSIN R. , FEDRIZZI A. , ZEILINGER A.
Published: December 2004

In this work we review the security vulnerability of quantum cryptography with respect to "man-in-the-middle attacks" and the standard authentication methods applied to counteract these attacks. We further propose a modified authentication algorithm which features higher efficiency with respect to consumption of mutual secret bits.
NATURAL BEHAVIOR GENERATION FOR HUMANOID ROBOTS
Authors: MIYASHITA TAKAHIRO , ISHIGURO HIROSHI
Published: December 2004

Human behaviors consist of both voluntary and involuntary motions. Almost all behaviors of task-oriented robots, however, consist solely of voluntary motions. Involuntary motions are important for generating natural motions like those of humans. Thus, we propose a natural behavior generation method for humanoid robots that is a hybrid generation between voluntary and involuntary motions. The key idea of our method is to control robots with a hybrid controller that combines the functions of a communication behavior controller and body balancing controllers. We also develop a wheeled inverted pendulum type of humanoid robot, named "Robovie-III," in order to generate involuntary motions like oscillation. This paper focuses on the system architecture of this robot. By applying our method to this robot and conducting preliminary experiments, we verify its validity. Experimental results show that the robot generates both voluntary and involuntary motions.
A HYBRID FINITE-ANALYTIC ALGORITHM FOR SOLVING THREE-DIMENSIONAL ADVECTION-DIFFUSION EQUATIONS
Authors: HU H. M. , WANG K.-H.
Published: December 2004

The hybrid finite-analytic (HFA) method for discretization of a three-dimensional advection-diffusion equation is developed using the superposition of the HFA solutions of locally linearized one-dimensional advection-diffusion equations. An example calculation of a system of three-dimensional nonlinear equations is conducted to test the convergence and accuracy of the 7-point numerical scheme. Good agreements between calculated and analytical solutions are obtained. An algorithm based on the HFA method with multigrid technique and Gauss-Seidel iteration is also developed to solve the three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations in a staggered grid system. The stability and efficiency of the method are demonstrated by performing calculations of the fluid flow in a three-dimensional cubic cavity with a moving top wall. The proposed procedure is observed to exhibit good rates of smoothing and almost grid-independent convergence rates in comparison with a single-grid iteration method. The results are in excellent agreement with other published computational results.
ON SOME ENRICHMENTS OF REPRODUCING KERNEL PARTICLE METHOD
Authors: ZHOU J. X. , WANG X. M. , ZHANG Z. Q. , ZHANG L.
Published: December 2004

In this paper efforts are made to enrich Reproducing Kernel Particle Method (RKPM). Firstly, the RKPM shape functions are expressed explicitly in terms of kernel function moments. This avoids numerical matrix inversions and solutions of linear algebraic equations which are involved in classical RKPM, and thus makes RKPM more accurate, faster and more efficient. Then, a recently developed truly meshless body integration technique is introduced into RKPM. It is based on a partition of unity by a set of overlapping patches covering the domain and eliminates background cells completely. We borrow an idea from computational geometry and propose a sweeping-line method to determine the quadrature points inside the domain. The method is robust and effective even for domain with complicated shapes. The truly meshless integration technique in combination with this sweeping-line method make implementation of RKPM quite simple, smart and especially very advantageous when nodes are irregularly scattered. Numerical results presented herein demonstrate that these enrichments make RKPM more efficient, versatile and particularly truly meshless.
Reversal of hyperglycemic preconditioning by angiotensin II: role of calcium transport
Authors: Pastukh Viktor , Wu Songwei , Ricci Craig , Mozaffari Mahmood , Schaffer Stephen
Published: December 2004

Myocardial cell death is an important contributor to the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy. It has been proposed that diabetes-mediated upregulation of the renin-angiotensin system leads to oxidative stress, the trigger for cardiomyocyte death and contractile dysfunction. However, the adverse effect of ANG II on the diabetic heart may extend beyond the development of the cardiomyopathy. ANG II also alters specific modulators of ischemic injury, such as PKC and calcium transport. Therefore, the present study examined the effect of ANG II on hyperglycemic preconditioning, a glucose-mediated condition associated with the elevation of PKC activity and alterations in calcium transport that render the cell resistant to hypoxia. Exposure of the glucose-treated cell to ANG II during the prehypoxic period blocked glucose-mediated cardioprotection. The reversal of hyperglycemic preconditioning was associated with enhanced accumulation of Ca2+ during hypoxia, an effect prevented by inhibition of the Na+/ H+ exchanger and the T-type Ca2+ channel. The inhibitors of hypoxia-mediated Ca2+ accumulation also blocked the reversal of hyperglycemic preconditioning by ANG II. Thus ANG II and glucose treatment exert opposite actions on the Na+/ H+ exchanger and the T-type Ca2+ channel. Because those transporters are involved in hypoxia-mediated apoptosis, they are logical candidates for the beneficial effects of high glucose and the adverse effects of ANG II on the hypoxic cardiomyocyte.
Electrophysiological Evidence Using Focal Flash Photolysis of Caged Glutamate That CA1 Pyramidal Cells Receive Excitatory Synaptic Input From the Subiculum
Authors: Shao Li-Rong , Dudek F. Edward
Published: December 2004

The hippocampus sends efferent fibers to the subiculum, which projects to the entorinal cortex. Previous studies suggest that the hippocampal CA1 area may receive a projection back from the subiculum. This hypothesis was tested using whole cell recording from CA1 pyramidal cells while subicular neurons were selectively stimulated with focal flash photolysis of caged glutamate, which avoids stimulation of fibers of passage. Control experiments showed that focal flash stimulations caused direct glutamate-mediated depolarizations and bursts of action potentials in the recorded CA1 pyramidal cells, but only when the stimulation targeted the somatodendritic regions of a neuron, not the axons. To block GABAA-mediated inhibition and isolate local excitatory circuits, bicuculline was applied to minislices containing only the isolated CA1 area and the subiculum. Of 24 CA1 pyramidal cells, 25% (6 of 24) consistently generated repetitive excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in response to flash stimulation in the subiculum. The responsive neurons were located 200–500 μm from the distal end of CA1 and 400–1,100 μm from the stimulation sites in subiculum, suggesting excitatory synaptic projections from the subicular neurons to CA1 pyramidal cells. This study provides new electrophysiological evidence that CA1 pyramidal cells receive excitatory synaptic input from the subiculum. Thus a reciprocal excitatory synaptic circuit connects the subiculum and the CA1 area in the normal adult rat.
Regional Intensive and Temporal Patterns of Functional MRI Activation Distinguishing Noxious and Innocuous Contact Heat
Authors: Moulton E. A. , Keaser M. L. , Gullapalli R. P. , Greenspan J. D.
Published: December 2004

Cortical responses to painful and nonpainful heat were measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) region of interest analysis (ROI) of primary somatosensory cortex (S1), secondary somatosensory cortex (S2), anterior cingulate (ACC), supplementary motor area (SMA), insula, and inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). Previous studies indicated that innocuous and noxious stimuli of different modalities produce responses with different time courses in S1 and S2. The aim of this study was to 1) determine whether temporally distinct nociceptive blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) responses are evoked in multiple somatosensory processing cortical areas and 2) whether these responses discriminate small noxious stimulus intensity differences. Thirty-three subjects underwent fMRI scanning while receiving three intensities of thermal stimuli, ranging from innocuous warm (41°C) to 1°C below tolerance, applied to the dorsum of the left foot. Innocuous and noxious responses were distinguishable in contralateral S1, the mid-ACC, and SMA. The peak of the nociceptive response was temporally delayed from the innocuous response peak by 6–8 s. Responses to noxious but not to innocuous stimuli were observed in contralateral posterior insula. Responses to innocuous and noxious stimuli were not statistically different in contralateral S2. In contralateral S1 only, the nociceptive response could differentiate heat stimuli separated by 1°C. These results show that 1) multiple cortical areas have temporally distinguishable innocuous and noxious responses evoked by a painfully hot thermode, 2) the nociceptive processing properties vary across cortical regions, and 3) nociceptive responses in S1 discriminate between painful temperatures at a level unmatched in other cortical areas.
The Timing of Property Crime, Violent Crime, and Substance Use among Juveniles
Authors: Gottfredson Denise C. , Soulé David A.
Published: December 2004

This study examines the timing of juvenile delinquent behavior by crime type. A study of 513 youths participating in after-school programs indicates that crimes against persons are elevated during the after-school hours but not as much as during school. Property crime and drug use are not particularly elevated during the after-school hours. Earlier studies either examined a single crime type or aggregated different types of crime together and therefore were misleading because the timing of crime varies considerably by crime type. These study findings suggest that one undesirable side effect of grouping youths together for schooling and after-school programming is an increase in crimes against persons. Implications for theory, policy, and practice are discussed.
Motivations for academic web site interlinking: evidence for the Web as a novel source of information on informal scholarly communication
Authors: Wilkinson David , Harries Gareth , Thelwall Mike , Price Liz
Published: December 2004

The need to understand authors’ motivations for creating links between university web sites is addressed by a survey of a random collection of 414 such links from the ac.uk domain. A classification scheme was created and applied to this collection. Obtaining inter-classifier agreement as to the single main link creation cause was very difficult because of multiple potential motivations and the fluidity of genre on the Web. Nevertheless, it was clear that, whilst the vast majority, over 90%, was created for broadly scholarly reasons, only two were equivalent to journal citations. It is concluded that academic web link metrics will be dominated by a range of informal types of scholarly communication. Since formal communication can be extensively studied through citation analysis, this provides an exciting new window through which to investigate a facet of a previously obscured type of communication activity.
The What? and How? of education and training for information professionals in a changing world: some experiences from Wales, Slovakia and the Asia-Pacific region
Authors: Tedd Lucy A.
Published: December 2004

Following a description of the changing roles of library and information professionals, this paper will cover the issues of the What? and How? of education and training courses for such professionals, and the developments of distance learning programmes and virtual learning environments. Finally, case studies based on the author’s experiences in education and training programmes in Wales, Slovakia and in the Asia-Pacific region will be described. Such courses are examples of attempts to ensure that today’s library and information professionals are well prepared to meet the challenges of the future.
New tool for landfill location
Authors: Vasiloglou Vasilios Chr.
Published: December 2004

In the present paper a decision-making process for the potential location of new landfill areas with wide community participation and acceptance is suggested. The main scientific contribution of this work is the elaboration of an independent decision-making tool, which can be used in landfill site selection. Specifically, at a first level it acts as an intermediary between experts (i.e. engineers, technical advisors) and decision-makers (i.e. elected representatives, appointive advisors), helping decision-makers to use experts’ knowledge. At a higher level, it acts as an independent processor of decision-makers judgments thereby giving a result that is in accordance with pre-chosen criteria. In this way, the local authorities can effectively participate in the decision-making process and avert the violation of possible agreements. Furthermore, the criteria (pre-selection - evaluation) and the methodology of multicriteria analysis for new landfill location are presented.
Dress Matters
Authors: Huisman Kimberly , Hondagneu-Sotelo Pierrette
Published: December 2004

Dress serves as a discursive daily practice of gender, and this article explains the dress practices of Bosnian Muslim refugee women living in Vermont. These dress practices tend toward elaborate, carefully cultivated styles for hair, makeup, and dress. Based on participant observation, in-depth interviews, and secondary historical sources, the authors seek to explain the meanings and practice of these dress practices. They argue that gendered dress practices reflect agentic processes that are situated within the flow of time and are rooted in relational processes that occur at the macrostructural level of history and nation and at the micro world of social interaction and lived experience.
Ideology, Progress, and Dialogue
Authors: Marshall Gül AldikaÇti
Published: December 2004

Using documentary analysis and in-depth interviews, this article compares how prosecular feminist and Islamist women’s groups in Turkey approach the issues of head covering and work. The comparison reveals that Islamist women either selectively appropriate feminist views or contest them by using feminist arguments against feminists. However, this in itself does not expin why feminist and reformist Islamist women who share surprisingly similar complaints and contentions are still unable to develop a meaningful dialogue. Findings reveal that the notion of progress, ideologically directed solutions, competition over public and private spheres, divided social spaces, and most important, the universalization of feminist and Islamist ideologies thwart the development of dialogue between the two groups.
Freedom of what information?
Authors: Bindman Geoffrey
Published: December 2004

Eminent lawyer Bindman writes on how the Freedom of Information Act will come into force in January next. The Information Commissioner will then be able to demand production of information from government at any level, but his powers are circumscribed by the much criticised power of veto given to ministers over information which they consider should remain confidential in the public interest. In a speech to the Campaign for Freedom of Information in March of this year, Lord Falconer, the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs, who has remained in charge of this legislation since he took it over as a minister in the Home Office, rejected the recommendation of a committee under Bob Phillis that ministers should renounce the use of the veto. In many areas, believes Bindman, it would be an intolerable abuse of power for the Government to use the veto that it has controversially maintained. It will surely have the sense not to do so.
Caribbean crisis
Authors: Goodwin Clayton
Published: December 2004

Just when the West Indies cricket Test team - once the best in the world - was experiencing its worst tour of England in living memory, the dire plight of the West Indian heritage press became manifest, writes this experienced Caribbean journalist. London Extra, the country's first free-distribution black newspaper, closed down just two months short of what would have been its second birthday. Notices of redundancies were issued at The Voice, following its purchase by The Gleaner. A week earlier, the first ABC audit, to which the market was now at last subject in its attempt to win mainstream advertisers, showed that sales figures of New Nation at just over 20,000 were considerably lower than had been touted, or expected. How has this situation come about? Can it be corrected? Does anybody really care? Goodwin discusses the problems that must immediately be addressed if the decline in readership of the West Indian press is to be halted and then reversed.
Methodological Issues Encountered in a Study of Hospitalized COPD Patients
Authors: Bissonnette Janice , Logan Jo , Davies Barbara , Graham Ian D.
Published: December 2004

A study with hospitalized chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients determined the feasibility of providing and evaluating a tailored education program. This article describes two methodological issues encountered. Issues included recruitment and retention, and selection of outcome measures. The COPD Self-Efficacy Scale (CSES) and Dartmouth Functional Health Status (FHS) charts provided data on evaluation and outcome measurements. Of 67 patients, 55% met eligibility criteria, 73% (n = 27) agreed to participate, and 74% (n = 20) completed the study. Results revealed acceptance and satisfaction with the educational intervention. The median CSES score, significantly (z = 3.51,p = .004) improved from 53% to 82%. In FHS, a 20% improvement occurred in all except social support. Methodological concerns with the CSES reinforced the need for further investigation of the reliability and validity for hospitalized COPD patients. Researchers’ observations may assist in planning educational interventions and program evaluations with hospitalized COPD patients.
Development and Evaluation of the Revised Academic Hardiness Scale
Authors: Benishek Lois A. , Feldman Jill M. , Shipon R. Wolf , Mecham Stacy D. , Lopez Frederick G.
Published: December 2004

Researchers have a long-standing interest in better understanding why some students avoid challenging academic course work at the risk of harming their academic standing, whereas others are willing to pursue these types of challenges. The Academic Hardiness Scale (AHS) was developed to better understand characteristics that may differentiate these two types of students. Although preliminary findings provided support for the initial version of the AHS, the measure exhibited only good to marginal coefficient alphas and limited discriminant validity. The present investigation represents the second phase of measurement development for the AHS. The study was designed to evaluate the factor structure; internal consistency reliability; discriminant, convergent, and concurrent validity; and testretest reliability of the Revised Academic Hardiness Scale (RAHS). Results from this study identified a three-component measure that has very good basic psychometric properties. The RAHS is a significant improvement over its parent instrument.
Testing for the Structure of the Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form Among Chinese College Students
Authors: Hampton Nan Zhang
Published: December 2004

This study examines the factor structure of the Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (CDSES-SF) among Chinese college students. Two samples of college students from China were used. The original 25-item CDSES-SF was not supported by the data derived from a sample of 256 Chinese college students (Sample 1). However, a modified 13-item, three-factor model of the CDSES-SF fit the data well: The standardized factor loadings and goodness-of-fit indexes were adequate and the reliability coefficient was .85. This 13-item model was subsequently cross-validated with a second sample of Chinese college students ( N= 157). The cross-validation test revealed that the model was invariant across the two samples. It is suggested that this revised CDSES-SF may be applied to understanding Chinese college students’ career decision-making behavior.