bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Performance of Policy Networks: The Relation between Network Structure and Network Performance
Authors: Sandström Annica , Carlsson Lars
Published: November 2008

The importance of policy networks has long been emphasized within the field of policy analysis. However, few attempts have been made to investigate the explanatory power of policy networks using the tools and theoretical concepts provided by social network analysis (SNA). This paper aims to address this need by determining if a relationship exists between the structural features of policy networks, their organizing capacities, and their performance. A comparative case study of four networks within the higher education policy sector confirms the assumption related to the existence of such a relation. It is proposed that an efficient and innovative policy network consists of a heterogeneous set of actors that are centrally and densely integrated. Furthermore, while the level of network heterogeneity is positively related to the function of resource mobilization in the process of policymaking, the level of centralized integration promotes the function of prioritizing. These findings are believed to contribute to our understanding of policymaking in contemporary society. The current paper indicates that a significant explanatory power exists in the concept of policy networks and that SNA is one way of advancing its possibilities.
The Behavioral Impact of Drinking and Driving Laws
Authors: Bertelli Anthony M. , Richardson Lilliard E.
Published: November 2008

All U.S. states have laws designed to discourage people from drinking and driving, but enforcement varies across the states. Existing studies offer conflicting evidence on the effectiveness of these strategies in deterring drinking‐and‐driving behavior. Deterrence theories imply that the mere existence of such laws has little impact on criminal behavior, but the perception of enforcement and the probability of being detected have a deterrent effect. To test these hypotheses, we develop a measure of the propensity to drink and drive using item response theory and national survey data. Inferential models test the impact of perceptions of enforcement, actual enforcement levels, and deterrence laws on criminal propensity. Results indicate that the existence of statutes impacts only those least likely to drink and drive, while perceptions of the likelihood of arrest and individual agreement with the goals of drinking and driving laws significantly reduce the propensity for almost everyone. Actual enforcement rates display no behavioral effect.
Moderating Local Capacity: Exploring EO 12372's Intergovernmental Review Effects on Federal Grant Awards
Authors: Hall Jeremy L.
Published: November 2008

This article asks whether the Reagan Executive Order (EO) 12372 matters for intergovernmental fiscal relations today. To address this question, federal grant receipts from programs that are, and programs that are not, covered by EO 12372 are compared by examining the differential effects of political and local administrative capacity on each. Grant receipts are examined by coding federal grant award data from 1993 to 2003 using Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance reference numbers. In the case state, Kentucky, Area Development Districts are the regional functionaries for the state single point of contact clearinghouse, by virtue of which status they review proposals for federal funding originating in, or affecting, their districts. Since federal award decisions take clearinghouse information into account on grant programs covered by EO 12372, differences in the effects of local capacity on receipt of grants covered and not covered by the EO are expected. Methodology used in this post‐only analysis is pooled cross‐sectional time series analysis with panel corrected standard errors. Results focus attention on the differential effects of government administrative and political capacity as they apply to federal grants covered, and not covered, by the EO.
Lay Public or Experts? e‐Participation in Authorization for GMO Products in the European Union
Authors: Ferretti Maria Paola , Lener Matteo
Published: November 2008

In the European Union, for the first time, lay people can participate directly in the procedure of assessment of GMO (genetically modified organisms) products, an exercise normally reserved for scientists and legal experts. What makes this a unique strategy of participation is that for each single application for authorization, lay people have the opportunity to express their views. This article presents the result of the first in‐depth analysis of this type of Internet participatory exercise in the first years of its implementation. It shows that, despite generally participatory technology assessment aims at deliberative consensus on technical questions, this forum is instead a way to expose the work of regulative authorities to public scrutiny and to express dissent and opposition to the European Commission policy on GMOs.
Assessing Material and Symbolic Variations in Punctuated Equilibrium and Public Policy Output Patterns
Authors: Givel Michael
Published: November 2008

Numerous researchers have confirmed sharp and punctuated policy change. Newer findings in U.S. forest policy in the Pacific Northwest and U.S. state tobacco policy have found largely nonpunctuated changes. What are the implications for punctuated equilibrium theory? U.S. state tobacco policy‐making from 1990 to 2006 indicates a wide variety of nonpunctuated policy output patterns including: linear and constant, gently oscillating and increasing, linear and increasing, and linear and constant and then nonexponentially increasing. All nonpunctuated policies resulted in symbolic policy output change except state tobacco licensing, higher tobacco taxes, and enactment of clean indoor air legislation, which resulted in partially material and partially symbolic policy output change. Emerging from this research is a new public policy model based on social policy realism. Public policy output change can be quite complex, sometimes punctuated and sometimes not, reflecting the balance of power between sometimes competing and cooperating interest groups.
Current Funding Practices in Academic Science Stifle Creativity
Authors: Carlson Toby N.
Published: November 2008

Money is trumping creativity in academic science. This statement was previously given substance in an article I published, along with a companion paper by Mark Roulston in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society (Carlson, 2006a;Roulston, 2006) and in a subsequent address I gave to the Heads and Chairs meeting in Boulder, Colorado (Carlson, 2006b). Here, I expand further on the issues treated in these papers, and make a plea for changing the way funding is administered in academic science. Using examples I show that the present worsening situation places a dead hand on the spirit and creative output of academic scientists, especially junior faculty. I suggest a possible solution, which would enable academic scientists to function in a stable environment, free from spurious financial pressures and dictates from university administration and funding agencies.
Science, Technology and the New President: Advancing Security, Prosperity, Resilience and Stability for 2009 and The 21st Century
Authors: McCreight Robert
Published: November 2008

At one time, only 20 years ago, the United States was the undisputed leader globally in virtually every field of science and technology with a reputation for being the place where innovation, technological breakthroughs and cutting‐edge science found a home and thrived. Not so any longer as several other nations, some friendly and others competitive rivals have surged ahead with a robust and growing infrastructure in the broad science and technology ['S&T’] field which surpasses many American programs and displays trends which will eclipse American leadership in the S&T realm. In nanotechnology, biotech and molecular engineering we find ourselves outperformed and outmaneuvered at risk of falling further behind other nations. The situation is not likely to change or improve unless the United States considers this problem to have serious strategic consequences and profound implications for our national security and prosperity.
Intelligently Designing Deliberative Health Care Forums: Dewey's Metaphysics, Cognitive Science and a Brazilian Example
Authors: Ralston Shane J.
Published: November 2008

Imagine you are the CEO of a hospital [. . .]. Decisions are constantly being made in your organization about how to spend the organization's money. The amount of money available to spend is never adequate to pay for everything you wish you could spend it on, therefore you must set spending priorities. There are two questions you need to be able to answer . . . How should we set priorities in this organization? How do we know when we are doing it well?

When people seek to achieve good public policy, the result will tend to be good public policy. In a collective choice process, public‐spirited individual participants produce good public policy by deliberating—talking with each other, listening to each other's arguments, and being willing to learn and change their minds based on such dialogue. –Steven Kelman (1992: 181)

Public policy scholars agree that those persons (or agencies) vested with the authority to establish health care priorities should elicit public input before making rationing decisions. The two most common approaches are (i) consultation and (ii) deliberation. Though deliberation has obvious advantages over consultation, it falters in the face of the objection that ordinary citizens lack the cognitive resources for the extended, rigorous inquiry required of them in undertaking the priority‐setting task. To overcome this objection, I propose that deliberative forums for health care rationing should be designed so that they imitate the natural pattern of human experience. The experience of deliberation should encompass both prolonged periods of less‐demanding cognitive activity, in which citizens passively receive information, and briefer periods of more‐demanding cognitive activity, in which they engage in active problem‐solving. In arguing for this thesis, I rely on two theoretical sources and one practical case study, in the following order: (i) John Dewey's metaphysics of experience, (ii) cognitive science research on schemas and frames, and (iii) the Health Care Council in São Paulo, Brazil.
The Mass‐Mediated Chronotope, Radical Counterpublics, and Dialect in 1970s Norway: The Case of Vømmøl Spellmanslag
Authors: Swinehart Karl F.
Published: November 2008

This article explores the reflexive role the Norwegian musical group, Vømmøl Spellmanslag, played as a mass‐mediated cultural expression of an emergent counterpublic in 1970s Norway. It also examines how “Vømmøl Valley,” a fictitious community described in Vømmøl's music, came to constitute a cultural chronotope of dissidence within a context of sociopolitical polarization following Norway's 1972 referendum on membership in the European Economic Community (EEC). In their performance, Vømmøl deployed contrasting phonolexical registers to animate socially recognizable regional and class subjectivities. This article questions how the replication of regional and class indexical speech in Vømmøl's verse made available various role alignments to its listening audience. [Norwegian; register; popular music; chronotope; role alignment]
Figures of transversality: State power and prenatal screening in contemporary Vietnam
Authors: GAMMELTOFT TINE M.
Published: November 2008

In this article, I explore how prenatal screening is imbricated within state agendas, aspirations, and imaginings in contemporary Vietnam. In an effort to develop new ethnographic tropes for understanding the formation called “the state,” I argue for a phenomenological take that emphasizes its affective and embodied aspects. Seeing the anomalous fetus as a “figure of transversality,” as a critical focus for powerful imaginings and desires, I show how state–society relations in Vietnam are suffused by visceral affectivity and moral engagement. In the realm of reproduction, intense sentiments of anxiety, dread, desire, ambition, and hope tie together the state and its citizens, animating individual aspirations as well as national population policies. [state, science, technology, population, disability, Vietnam]
Arts and owners: Intellectual property law and the politics of scale in Indonesian arts
Authors: ARAGON LORRAINE V. , LEACH JAMES
Published: November 2008

International and national agendas are redesigning the terms of intellectual‐property (IP) laws to create cultural property for developing nations. Debates over IP and cultural‐property “rights” or legal needs for “protection” are critical to anthropology's effort to reflect on how the production of knowledge, even culture itself, is variously construed to originate with, or “belong to,” particular individuals, ethnic communities, or nation‐states. We explore the implications of two Indonesian legal documents to show the disjunction between discourses of regional artists who describe the ritual exchanges, relationships, and transgenerational messages their arts shape and (inter)nationalist legal initiatives that bypass artists' concepts of process, access, and authority in an effort to disembed and control ritual‐based expressions as products with exclusive owners. [intellectual property, cultural property, law, art, tradition, globalization, Indonesia]
The banana plant and the moon: Conservation and the Malagasy ethos of life in Masoala, Madagascar
Authors: KELLER EVA
Published: November 2008

For people in rural Madagascar, the growth of one's kin group and the joint processes of movement and anchorage in the land are fundamental aspects of a successful life. In this article, I examine the clash between the Malagasy ethos of growth and the canonical conservationist ethos of static equilibrium. I argue that biodiversity conservation on the Masoala peninsula leaves local people with a sense of having been defeated in the purpose of life as they understand it. I further suggest that, in the case of people of slave descent, such defeat reverses the historical process of shedding slave status. [Madagascar, Masoala, conservation, national parks, concepts of growth, slavery]
Effects of the Interaction Between Reaction Component of Personal Need for Structure and Role Perceptions on Employee Attitudes in Long‐Term Care for Elderly People1
Authors: Heponiemi Tarja , Elovainio Marko , Kouvonen Anne , Pekkarinen Laura , Noro Anja , Finne‐Soveri Harriet , Sinervo Timo
Published: November 2008

This study examined the interaction of reaction component of personal need for structure (reaction to lack of structure, RLS) and role perceptions in predicting job satisfaction, job involvement, affective commitment, and occupational identity among employees working in long‐term care for elderly people. High‐RLS employees experienced more role conflict, had less job satisfaction, and experienced lower levels of occupational identity than did low‐RLS employees. We found individual differences in how problems in roles affected employees' job attitudes. High‐RLS employees experienced lower levels of job satisfaction, job involvement, and affective commitment, irrespective of role‐conflict levels. Low‐RLS employees experienced detrimental job attitudes only if role‐conflict levels were high. Our results suggest that high‐RLS people benefit less from low levels of experienced role conflicts.
Encouraging Cooperation: Revisiting Solidarity and Commitment Effects in Prisoner's Dilemma Games1
Authors: Mulford Matthew , Jackson Jonathan , Svedsäter Henrik
Published: November 2008

Pre‐play discussion consistently increases cooperation in dilemma interactions. Most explanations of this “cheap‐talk” effect are based on either commitment or group solidarity effects. Because discussion about the upcoming dilemma allows participants to make promises and creates group solidarity, the 2 explanations are often confounded. This paper aims to clarify past results by having participants engage in an unrelated discussion prior to a dilemma interaction. We find that solidarity effects can be induced by minimal group categorizations, but are relatively weak. Discussions involving consequential but unrelated coordination tasks are shown to prime cooperative norms and increase cooperation with both in‐group and out‐group members. Our findings suggest that cheap talk may work for even cheaper reasons than previously thought.
Biases Influencing Recommendation Letter Contents: Physical Attractiveness and Gender1
Authors: Nicklin Jessica M. , Roch Sylvia G.
Published: November 2008

This study investigated whether 2 well‐known biases, gender and physical appearance, influence readers' perceptions of different types of letters of recommendation (LORs; inflated vs. noninflated). Based on 244 participants, a main effect for letter type was found. Applicants with inflated letters were more likely to be hired and were predicted to become more successful, despite readers recognizing that the inflated letter contained exaggerations. A 3‐way interaction was also present. Gender and physical attractiveness did not influence reader perceptions when given an inflated letter, but when readers received a noninflated letter, attractive women were predicted to become most successful. These results demonstrate that readers may still be biased by irrelevant factors when reading LORs, emphasizing a need for letter reader training.
Predictors of untreated dental decay among 15–34‐year‐old Australians
Authors: Jamieson Lisa M. , Mejía Gloria C. , Slade Gary D. , Roberts‐Thomson Kaye F.
Published: November 2008

Abstract –  Objectives:  To determine predictors of untreated dental decay among 15–34‐year‐olds in Australia.

Methods:  Data were from Australia’s National Survey of Adult Oral Health, a representative survey that utilized a three‐stage, stratified clustered sampling design. Models representing demographic, socioeconomic, dental service utilization and oral health perception variables were tested using multivariable logistic regression to produce odds ratios.

Results:  An estimated 25.8% (95% CI 22.4–29.5) of 15–34‐year‐old Australians had untreated dental decay. After controlling for other covariates, those who lived in a location other than a capital city had 2.0 times the odds of having untreated dental decay than their capital city‐dwelling counterparts (95% CI 1.29–3.06). Similarly, those whose highest level of education was not a university degree had 2.1 times the odds of experiencing untreated dental decay (95% CI 1.35–3.31). Perceived need of extractions or restorations predicted untreated coronal decay, with 2.9 times the odds for those who perceived a treatment need over those with no such treatment need perception (95% CI 1.84–4.53). Participants who experienced dental fear had 2.2 times the odds of having untreated dental decay (95% CI 1.38–3.41), while those who reported experiencing toothache, orofacial pain or food avoidance in the last 12 months had 1.9 times the odds of having untreated dental decay than their counterparts with no such oral health‐related quality‐of‐life impact (95% CI 1.20–2.92). The multivariate model achieved a ‘useful’ level of accuracy in predicting untreated decay (area under the ROC curve = 0.74; sensitivity = 0.63; specificity = 0.73).

Conclusions:  In the Australian young adult population, residential location, education level, perceived need for dental care, dental fear, toothache, orofacial pain or food avoidance together were predictors of untreated dental decay. The prediction model had acceptable specificity, indicating that it may be useful as part of a triage system for health departments wishing to screen by means of a questionnaire for apparently‐dentally healthy 15–34‐year‐olds.
Confirmatory factor analysis on the health domains of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire
Authors: Lau Abby W. H. , Wong May C. M. , Lam K. F. , McGrath Colman
Published: November 2008

Abstract –  Background:  The Child Perceptions Questionnaire for children aged 11–14 years (CPQ11–14) with 37 items (full questionnaire) and short forms with 16 and 8 items were developed in Toronto as measures of the oral‐health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) for children.

Objectives:  To confirm the four hypothesized health domains (oral symptoms, functional limitations, emotional well‐being and social well‐being) of CPQ11–14 in measuring OHRQoL for children in Hong Kong.

Methods:  The instrument was administered to 542 children aged 12 years. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to confirm the health domains of the full and short forms of CPQ11–14.

Results:  The usual goodness‐of‐fit measurements indicated that the model using all 37 items fitted the data below the acceptable level, while the models with 16 items and 8 items fitted the data well.

Conclusion:  The hypothesized factor structure with the four health domains of the short forms of CPQ11–14 has been confirmed by CFA. The results in the current study indicated that the items used in the short forms contain sufficient information in measuring OHRQoL for children in Hong Kong.
Antigen expression of human eccrine sweat glands
Authors: Li Hai‐Hong , Zhou Gang , Fu Xiao‐Bing , Zhang Lei
Published: November 2008

Background:  The proliferating abilities of sweat glands are very limited, so researches on the repair and regeneration of sweat glands are important. First of all, we must find out reliable and specific antigen markers of sweat glands.

Objective:  To investigate the antigen expression of human eccrine sweat glands.

Methods:  The development of eccrine sweat glands was investigated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and the antigen expression was detected by immunohistochemical techniques.

Results:  Human eccrine sweat glands expressed cytokeratin (CK) 7, CK8, CK14, CK18, CK19 and epithelial membrane antigen (EMA). Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was only expressed in sweat glands in the adult skin. Developing and developed sweat glands all had some cells expressing Ki67 and p63 antigens. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) was mainly localized in the secretory cells and ductal cells. Some myoepithelial cells were also labeled with anti‐EGF antibody. In the older fetus, positive staining for EGF was seen in the lumen of the secretory portion. EGF receptor (EGFR) was expressed in the ducts.

Conclusions:  Human eccrine sweat glands express CK7, CK8, CK14, CK18, CK19, CEA, EMA, Ki67, p63, EGF and EGFR. In skin, CEA can be used as a specific immunological marker of sweat glands.
Spitzoid melanoma in children: clinicopathological study and application of immunohistochemistry as an adjunct diagnostic tool
Authors: Paradela Sabela , Fonseca Eduardo , Pita Salvador , Kantrow Sara M. , Goncharuk Viktor N. , Diwan Hafeez , Prieto Victor G.
Published: November 2008

Introduction:  The term spitzoid melanoma (SM) is reserved for a rare group of tumors with striking resemblance to Spitz nevus, often developing in children diagnosed in retrospect after the development of metastases.

Objectives:  To determine the biological significance of SM and to analyze the effectiveness of adjuvant diagnostic techniques.

Materials and methods:  A retrospective, observational study of 38 cases of SM in patients younger than 18 years. Histological type, Clark level and Breslow thickness, radial and vertical growth phase, mitotic count/mm2, ulceration, regression, vascular and perineural invasion, satellitosis, cytology and associated nevi were reviewed. An immunohistochemical analysis with HMB45 and Ki67 was performed in 10 cases. These features were correlated to patient’s stage and outcome.

Results:  Analysis of histological and immunohistochemical features should allow accurate diagnosis in most cases. Given the low mortality rate, no conclusions about the prognostic significance of histological parameters of the primary tumor could be established.

Conclusion:  We report the largest series of SM from a unique center. Although these patients may have a better prognosis than adults, some patients with SM develop metastasis and die, particularly after age 11 years. Therefore, we recommend using the same treatments as in adults.
Lymphatic invasion in cutaneous melanoma is associated with sentinel lymph node metastasis
Authors: Doeden Katie , Ma Zhihai , Narasimhan Balasubramanian , Swetter Susan M. , Detmar Michael , Dadras Soheil S.
Published: November 2008

Background:  Sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastasis is a major determinant for staging, prognostication and clinical management of patients with cutaneous melanoma. However, the role of lymphatic vs. vascular invasion (VI) for SLN spread remains unclear.

Methods:  We compared the frequency of lymphatic invasion (LI) vs. VI in melanoma sections from 94 patients with a mean three‐year clinical follow up using immunostains for the lymphatic endothelial markers D2‐40 (podoplanin) and LYVE‐1 and the panvascular marker CD31.

Results:  LI occurred more frequently than VI (16 vs. 3%, respectively, p = 0.001) and correlated with higher American Joint Committee on Cancer stage at diagnosis (p = 0.0004). In a univariate analysis, LI was strongly associated with SLN metastasis (p = 0.008), independent of tumor thickness. In a multivariate analysis, LI was not a significant risk factor for SLN metastasis. The presence of intratumoral lymphatics (ITLs) was associated with distant metastasis, whereas VI was rare and did not correlate with SLN or distant metastasis. A combination of LI and ITL had higher positive and negative predictive values for the risk of developing SLN metastasis compared with routine histology and VI.

Conclusion:  Detection of LI in the primary tumor may aid in identifying melanoma patients with the propensity to develop SLN metastasis.
Analyzing the catalytic role of Asp97 in the methionine aminopeptidase from Escherichia coli
Authors: Mitra Sanghamitra , Job Kathleen M. , Meng Lu , Bennett Brian , Holz Richard C.
Published: November 2008

An active site aspartate residue, Asp97, in the methionine aminopeptidase (MetAPs) from Escherichia coli (EcMetAP‐I) was mutated to alanine, glutamate, and asparagine. Asp97 is the lone carboxylate residue bound to the crystallographically determined second metal‐binding site in EcMetAP‐I. These mutant EcMetAP‐I enzymes have been kinetically and spectroscopically characterized. Inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectroscopy analysis revealed that 1.0 ± 0.1 equivalents of cobalt were associated with each of the Asp97‐mutated EcMetAP‐Is. The effect on activity after altering Asp97 to alanine, glutamate or asparagine is, in general, due to a ∼ 9000‐fold decrease in kca towards Met‐Gly‐Met‐Met as compared to the wild‐type enzyme. The Co(II) d–d spectra for wild‐type, D97E and D97A EcMetAP‐I exhibited very little difference in form, in each case, between the monocobalt(II) and dicobalt(II) EcMetAP‐I, and only a doubling of intensity was observed upon addition of a second Co(II) ion. In contrast, the electronic absorption spectra of [Co_(D97N EcMetAP‐I)] and [CoCo(D97N EcMetAP‐I)] were distinct, as were the EPR spectra. On the basis of the observed molar absorptivities, the Co(II) ions binding to the D97E, D97A and D97N EcMetAP‐I active sites are pentacoordinate. Combination of these data suggests that mutating the only nonbridging ligand in the second divalent metal‐binding site in MetAPs to an alanine, which effectively removes the ability of the enzyme to form a dinuclear site, provides a MetAP enzyme that retains catalytic activity, albeit at extremely low levels. Although mononuclear MetAPs are active, the physiologically relevant form of the enzyme is probably dinuclear, given that the majority of the data reported to date are consistent with weak cooperative binding.
Increased susceptibility of β‐glucosidase from the hyperthermophile Pyrococcus furiosus to thermal inactivation at higher pressures
Authors: Bruins Marieke E. , Meersman Filip , Janssen Anja E. M. , Heremans Karel , Boom Remko M.
Published: November 2008

The stability of β‐glucosidase from the hyperthermophile Pyrococcus furiosus was studied as a function of pressure, temperature and pH. The conformational stability was monitored using FTIR spectroscopy, and the functional enzyme stability was monitored by inactivation studies. The enzyme proved to be highly piezostable and thermostable, with an unfolding pressure of 800 MPa at 85 °C. The tentative pressure–temperature stability diagram indicates that this enzyme is stabilized against thermal unfolding at low pressures. The activity measurements showed a two‐step inactivation mechanism due to pressure that was most pronounced at lower temperatures. The first part of this inactivation took place at pressures below 300 MPa and was not visible as a conformational transition. The second transition in activity was concomitant with the conformational transition. An increase in pH from 5.5 to 6.5 was found to have a stabilizing effect.
The role of evolutionarily conserved hydrophobic contacts in the quaternary structure stability of Escherichia coli serine hydroxymethyltransferase
Authors: Florio Rita , Chiaraluce Roberta , Consalvi Valerio , Paiardini Alessandro , Catacchio Bruno , Bossa Francesco , Contestabile Roberto
Published: November 2008

Pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate‐dependent enzymes may be grouped into five structural superfamilies of proteins, corresponding to as many fold types. The fold type I is by far the largest and most investigated group. An important feature of this fold, which is characterized by the presence of two domains, appears to be the existence of three clusters of evolutionarily conserved hydrophobic contacts. Although two of these clusters are located in the central cores of the domains and presumably stabilize their scaffold, allowing the correct alignment of the residues involved in cofactor and substrate binding, the role of the third cluster is much less evident. A site‐directed mutagenesis approach was used to carry out a model study on the importance of the third cluster in the structure of a well characterized member of the fold type I group, serine hydroxymethyltransferase from Escherichia coli. The experimental results obtained indicated that the cluster plays a crucial role in the stabilization of the quaternary, native assembly of the enzyme, although it is not located at the subunit interface. The analysis of the crystal structure of serine hydromethyltransferase suggested that this stabilizing effect may be due to the strict structural relation between the cluster and two polypeptide loops, which, in fold type I enzymes, mediate the interactions between the subunits and are involved in cofactor binding, substrate binding and catalysis.
Loss of Libido in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kummer Arthur , Cardoso Francisco , Teixeira Antonio Lucio
Published: November 2008

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction is a frequent but neglected problem in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Decreased sexual desire in PD correlates with reduced general satisfaction from life. Many variables might be related to the loss of libido in PD and they have not been carefully investigated yet.

Aim

To assess the frequency of loss of libido in PD and its relation to neurological symptoms, depression, anxiety, fatigue, and cognitive performance.

Methods

The response of 90 PD patients of both genders to item “loss of libido” from the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was analyzed. A structured psychiatric interview (MINI-Plus) evaluated the presence of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Clinical assessment also comprised neurological examination, which included all sections of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), Hoehn–Yahr and Schwab–England Scale (SES). The Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the PD Fatigue Scale (PDFS) were also performed.

Main Outcome Measures

Frequency of loss of libido and its main predictors.

Results

The frequency of loss of libido was 65.6%, and 42.6% of men also complained of erectile dysfunction. Ageing (P = 0.012), female gender (P < 0.001), lower education (P < 0.001), and depression (P = 0.006) associated with decreased sexual desire. Higher BDI scores (P < 0.001) correlated with a greater loss of libido. Decreased interest in sex was not associated with antidepressants. Neurological features associated with higher loss of libido were predominance of motor symptoms on the left side of the body (P = 0.026), autonomic dysfunction (P = 0.012), higher UPDRS scores (P = 0.006), and lower scores on SES (P = 0.003). In men, erectile dysfunction associated with decreased interest in sex (P < 0.001). Patients with lower performance on FAB (P < 0.001) and MMSE (P = 0.002), and with higher scores on PDFS (P < 0.001) also had less interest in sex. A multiple regression analysis indicated age, gender and BDI score as the main predictors of loss of libido.

Conclusions

Loss of libido is frequent in PD and depression may be its main predictor. However, decreased interest in sex was not associated with antidepressant therapy. Thus, loss of libido resulting from depression may be effectively treated, and physicians should be encouraged to assess these symptoms in their patients.
Dihydrotestosterone and Leptin Regulate Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Expression and Secretion in Human GnRH-Secreting Neuroblasts
Authors: Morelli Annamaria , Fibbi Benedetta , Marini Mirca , Silvestrini Enrico , De Vita Giulia , Chavalmane Aravinda K. , Vignozzi Linda , Filippi Sandra , Forti Gianni , Vannelli Gabriella B. , Maggi Mario
Published: November 2008

Introduction

The reversal of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), occurring after discontinuation of testosterone therapy in adolescents with delayed puberty and in a small percentage of adults with congenital HH, suggests a role for androgens in favoring a spontaneous recovery of reproductive function.

Aim

We investigated the effect of androgens and leptin on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) expression and secretion in human GnRH-secreting neuroblasts (FNC-B4).

Methods

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction RT-PCR for mRNA expression and radioimmunoassay for GnRH secretion were used. Immunohistochemical studies assessed GnRH protein expression. FNC-B4 migration was analyzed with multiwell Boyden chamber technique.

Main Outcome Measures

Effects of the non-aromatizable androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and leptin in FNC-B4 were tested after 24 and 48 hours.

Results

Exposure to increasing concentrations of DHT after 24 hours significantly stimulated GnRH mRNA in FNC-B4. This effect was still present after prolonged exposure (48 hours). Similarly, treatment with leptin significantly induced GnRH mRNA after 24 hours, but not at 48 hours. Interestingly, mRNA for leptin receptors (LEPR) was significantly reduced after 48 hours of leptin, while, at this time point, it was stimulated by DHT. Coincubation for 48 hours with leptin and DHT maintained the stimulatory effect on both GnRH and LEPR mRNA, suggesting that DHT could stabilize the leptin effect by preventing downregulation of LEPR. Similar results were obtained for GnRH protein expression analysis. Moreover, both DHT and leptin increased GnRH release into the culture medium. We also found that DHT or leptin treatment significantly increased FNC-B4 basal migration. As we previously found that GnRH stimulates FNC-B4 migration, we hypothesized that this effect could be mediated by DHT- and leptin-induced GnRH release. Accordingly, the GnRH antagonist cetrorelix inhibited DHT- and leptin-induced migration.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that androgens (adequate hormonal status) could have a positive effect on GnRH neuronal activity by synergizing with leptin (adequate energy status) in the regulatory mechanisms required for reproductive and sexual fitness.
Effects of Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors on the Contractile Responses of Isolated Human Seminal Vesicle Tissue to Adrenergic Stimulation
Authors: Ückert Stefan , Bazrafshan Siamak , Sonnenberg Joachim E. , Kuczyk Markus A.
Published: November 2008

Introduction

It has been suggested that the capability of the phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor sildenafil citrate (VIAGRA) to retard the ejaculatory response may include modulation of the contraction of seminal vesicle (SV) smooth muscle. In fact, it has been shown that PDE inhibitors can reverse the tension of isolated human SV tissue and enhance the production of cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP.

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors on both the spontaneous and electrically induced phasic contractions of isolated human SV smooth muscle.

Main Outcome Measures

To measure the inhibition exerted by PDE inhibitors vinpocetine (PDE1-inhibitor), rolipram (PDE4-inhibitor), sildenafil, and vardenafil (PDE5-inhibitors) on the phasic contractile response of isolated SV tissue.

Methods

Using the organ bath technique, the effects of increasing concentrations of the PDE inhibitors (1 nM–10 µM) were investigated on phasic contractions of SV tissue strips either mediated by means of electrical field stimulation (EFS) or the alpha1-adrenoceptor agonist norepinephrine.

Results

The contractile activity in response to EFS was dose-dependently reversed by the PDE inhibitors. The rank order of efficacy was: rolipram > sildenafil ≥ vardenafil > vinpocetine. Mean maximum inhibition of contraction was determined as −89.6% (rolipram), −61.3% (sildenafil), −62% (vardenafil), and −46% (vinpocetine). No differences were registered with regard to the effects of sildenafil and vardenafil on the inhibition of the contraction amplitudes. The frequency of the spontaneous contractions (amplitudes/5 minutes) was reduced by 50% in the presence of 2 µM rolipram, 5 µM sildenafil or vardenafil, and 8 µM vinpocetine.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that PDE inhibitors can inhibit EFS-induced and spontaneous contractile activity of isolated human SV tissue. These findings might be of importance with regard to the pharmacological treatment of premature ejaculation.
The Effect of Myoma Uteri and Myomectomy on Sexual Function
Authors: Ertunc Devrim , Uzun Roza , Tok Ekrem C. , Doruk Arzu , Dilek Saffet
Published: November 2008

Introduction

This is a report about the effects of myoma uteri and myomectomy on sexual function in women.

Aim

The aim of this article was to determine the effects of myoma uteri and myomectomy on sexual function in women.

Method

The study was designed as a controlled clinical study in an academic clinical research center. The study patients consisted of 80 women with myoma uteri and 75 control women. Baseline characteristics and properties of the myomas were recorded. A validated questionnaire was used to determine pre- and postoperative sexual function in the patients.

Main Outcome Measure

Female sexual function index (FSFI) scores of the women were recorded before and after surgery.

Results

Women with myoma uteri had lower FSFI pain and satisfaction scores than women without it, even after correction for possible confounders. Fundal and posterior myomas were associated with pain, whereas only posterior myomas were related to the overall FSFI scores. However, although there was no relation between the volume of the myomas and the FSFI scores, women with a uterine volume over 200 cm3 had significantly lower mean FSFI satisfaction, pain, and total scores. The mean FSFI pain and total scores of the patients improved significantly after undergoing a myomectomy.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that a potential impairment of sexual function exists in women with myomas. This is mainly because of pain during sexual intercourse, although it does not seem to have an effect on either the arousal or orgasmic phases. Furthermore, the performance of a myomectomy may alleviate pain during intercourse, and thereby improve sexual function in the patients.
Effect of Particle Shape on Anisotropic Packing and Shrinkage Behavior of Tape‐Cast Glass–Ceramic Composites
Authors: Rauscher Martin , Roosen Andreas
Published: November 2008

In this study, the influence of particle shape anisometry and particle alignment in tape‐cast green sheets on the shrinkage behavior of low‐temperature co‐fired ceramics (LTCCs) was investigated quantitatively. A new method for the characterization of particle shape with the use of a particle image analyzer is presented, and its application to real material systems demonstrated. A commercial LTCC system and three developed composite powders with different average particle sizes were analyzed. After tape casting, particle alignment in the green sheets was analyzed using image analysis of SEM micrographs of cross sections. The investigations showed that the degree of particle alignment correlates significantly with the particle shape and size of the materials. A further increase in particle orientation was seen after the lamination process. Additionally, the powder packing of both single layers and laminates was analyzed by mercury porosity. The anisotropic shrinkage behavior during the sintering process was determined by means of optical dilatometry. The data obtained on the particle morphology, particle orientation in the tapes, and their effects on the shrinkage anisotropy will be discussed.
Microanalyses on the RuO2 Particle–Glass Matrix Interface in Thick‐Film Resistors with Piezoresistive Effects
Authors: Totokawa Masashi , Yamashita Syuichi , Morikawa Kenji , Mitsuoka Yoshihito , Tani Toshihiko , Makino Hiroaki
Published: November 2008

The piezoresistive mechanisms of composite thick films based on RuO2 particles and both calcium‐borosilicate and bismuth‐borosilicate glass matrices were investigated by chemical and electrical microanalyses. The resistor based on bismuth‐borosilicate glass showed higher sensitivity than that based on calcium‐borosilicate glass. It was confirmed that the diffusion of ruthenium into glass affects the binding state of RuO2 at the interface of the glass. Furthermore, an intermediate resistive layer is detected around the RuO2 particle. These results suggest that the piezoresistive effect is related to a change in the electrical conductivity of the interfacial reaction layer caused by the diffusion of ruthenium into glass.
A Novel Temperature‐Compensated Microwave Dielectric (1−x)(Mg0.95Ni0.05)TiO3−xCa0.6La0.8/3TiO3 Ceramics System
Authors: Shen Chun‐Hsu , Huang Cheng‐Liang , Shih Chuan‐Feng , Huang Chih‐Ming
Published: November 2008

The microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of a (1−x)(Mg0.95Ni0.05)TiO3−xCa0.6La0.8/3TiO3 ceramics system have been investigated. The system was prepared using a conventional solid‐state ceramic route. In order to produce a temperature‐stable material, Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3 was added for a near‐zero temperature coefficient (τf). With partial replacement of Mg2+ by Ni2+, the dielectric properties of the (1−x)(Mg0.95Ni0.05)TiO3−xCa0.6La0.8/3TiO3 ceramics can be promoted. The microwave dielectric properties are strongly correlated with the sintering temperature and the composition. An excellent Q × f value of 118,000 GHz can be obtained for the system with x=0.9 at 1325°C. For practical application, a dielectric constant (ɛr) of 24.61, a Q × f value of 102,000 GHz, and a temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) of −3.6 ppm/°C for 0.85(Mg0.95Ni0.05)TiO3−0.15Ca0.6La0.8/3TiO3 at 1325°C are proposed. A parallel‐coupled line band‐pass filter is designed and simulated using the proposed dielectric to study its performance.
Quantum Topological QSAR Models based on the MOLMAP Approach
Authors: Hemmateenejad Bahram , Mehdipour Ahmad R. , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: November 2008

Quantum topological molecular similarity produces a two‐dimensional array of descriptors for each molecule while a three‐dimensional array is obtained by placing the descriptor data matrices of a set of molecules beside each other. Here, we use the multiway data analysis method called molecular maps (MOLMAP) of atom‐level properties in a new way. We transferred the three‐dimensional array of quantum topological molecular similarity descriptors into new two‐dimensional parameters using Kohonen networks, followed by partial least squares. Six different data sets were analyzed by the proposed procedure, which were previously analyzed (Eur. J. Med. Chem.200641862) by partial least squares applied to unfolded data. They include: (i) the pKaof imidazoles, (ii) the ability of a set of indole derivatives to displace [3H] flunitrazepam from binding to bovine cortical membranes, (iii) the inhibitory effect of a set of benzimidazoles on the influenza virus, (iv) the interaction of amides with liver alcohol dehydrogenase, (v) inhibition of carbonic anhydrase by sulfonamides and (vi) the toxicity of a set of chlorophenols. Overall, the results showed better statistical results compared with simple unfolding. Furthermore, variable important in projection plots confirmed previous findings about active centers and even in some cases showed more accurate results.
LigEvolutioner, a New Strategy for Modification and Optimization of Lead Compounds in Receptor/Ligand Complexes
Authors: Zhou Peng , Tian Feifei , Shang Zhicai
Published: November 2008

With the number of solved protein/ligand complex 3D structures growing up rapidly in recent years, lead modification and optimization based on the complex structure have received much attention in drug design community. In this study, we propose a novel method LigEvolutioner for the purpose of lead optimization in protein/ligand complexes. Using a fragment substitution strategy in the context of evolutionary algorithm, LigEvolutioner can analyze the complex structures automatically and derive several modification projects that could possibly improve the binding affinity of ligands. For instance, LigEvolutioner was employed to analyze and modify antigenic peptide ligand in human HLA‐A*0201/peptide complexes and, as a result, a peptide analogue with potential high affinity was designed. The structure configuration of this modified peptide is consistent with crystal profile and antigen presenting theory. In addition, we have confirmed the validity of LigEvolutioner by systematically comparing it with several widely used scoring methods.
Synthesis and Immunosuppressive Activity of Lipophilic Amino Alcohols and Diamines
Authors: Reis Elaine F. C. , Júnior Celso O. R. , Alves Lívia L. , Ferreira Ana Paula , De Almeida Mauro V.
Published: November 2008

In this work, we report the preparation and evaluation of the in vitro and in vivo of the immunosuppressive activity of a series of lipophilic amino alcohols and diamines. All compounds were evaluated for inhibition of cell proliferation, cytotoxicity and NO production. Compounds 9, 12, 13, 17, and 18 did not display inhibition of cell proliferation while decreased NO production. The two most potent compounds, 13 and 17, submitted to delayed‐type hypersensivity assays showed immunosuppressive activity.
The Past Does Not Repeat Itself, but It Rhymes: The Second Coming of the Liberal Anti‐Court Movement
Authors: Benson Josh
Published: November 2008

The last ten years have witnessed the reemergence of fears of judicial power among scholars on the left. This renewed “Anti‐Court” movement includes the minimalism of Cass Sunstein, the popular constitutionalism of Mark Tushnet and Larry Kramer, and the bipartisan judicial restraint of Jeffrey Rosen. This essay traces the origin, development, and implications of this movement, noting its particular ties to historic trends in the academy: the Legal Process School, critical theory, and the positivist work of Gerald Rosenberg and Michael Klarman. The essay also considers the movement's preference for majoritarian politics—a partiality borne of dissatisfaction with the Rehnquist Court, but also, conversely, recognition of the failures of conservative attempts at policy making. The essay concludes by considering the ambitions of these scholars to develop a truly apolitical theory of judicial power. In light of the furious debate over the purported “minimalism” of John Roberts, severing theory from politics may prove impossible.