bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subtle Disruption of the Middle Cerebellar Peduncles in Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Okugawa Gaku , Nobuhara Kenji , Minami Tomohisa , Tamagaki Chiharu , Takase Katsunori , Sugimoto Tatsuya , Sawada Satoshi , Kinoshita Toshihiko
Published: July 2004

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) was used to investigate subtle disruption in the middle cerebellar peduncles in patients with schizophrenia. Fractional anisotropy (FA) was measured in 25 patients with schizophrenia and 21 healthy subjects using DTI. The FA of the right and left middle cerebellar peduncles was significantly lower in the schizophrenic patients compared to healthy subjects. FA in the left middle cerebellar peduncles was significantly correlated with the dosage of neuroleptics in patients with schizophrenia. There were no significant differences of mean diffusivity in the right and left middle cerebellar peduncles between patients with schizophrenia and healthy subjects. The findings of the study suggest that antipsychotics may improve the subtle disruption in the middle cerebellar peduncles in patients with schizophrenia.
Polymorphisms in the Serotonin Transporter and Monoamine Oxidase A Genes and Their Relationship to Personality Traits Measured by the Temperament and Character Inventory and NEO Five-Factor Inventory in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Samochowiec Jerzy , Syrek Szymon , Michał Parus , Ryżewska-Wódecka Aneta , Samochowiec Agnieszka , Horodnicki Jan , Zakrzewska Marzena , Kucharska-Mazur Jolanta
Published: July 2004

The associations between 5-HTT-linked polymorphic region (5-HTT-LPR), monoamine oxidase A (MAOA)-LPR and the dimensions of temperament evaluated using the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) and NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) were studied. One hundred healthy volunteers (without psychiatric disorders) were recruited to represent a cross-section of the population of Szczecin (Poland) in terms of sex, age and education. No associations between 5-HTT-LPR and the TCI harm avoidance dimension and between 5-HTT-LPR and the NEO-FFI neuroticism dimension were found. Males carrying the 3-VNTR MAOA gene variant (209 bp) had significantly lower values on the NEO-FFI openness dimension (p = 0.039) and obtained higher scores on the subdimension 3 of the TCI reward dependence (RD3), i.e. attachment vs. detachment (p = 0.005). Individuals carrying the ‘short’ variant of 5-HTT-LPR had lower values on the reward dependence dimension and the RD4 subdimension (dependence vs. independence) than individuals not carrying the ‘short’ variant (p = 0.039 and p = 0.011, respectively). Females carrying the ‘short’ variant had lower values on NS1 (exploratory excitability vs. stoic rigidity) and RD4 (dependence vs. independence) than those not carrying the variant (p = 0.042 and 0.043, respectively). The obtained level of significance with respect to the observed associations between 5-HTT-LPR and the reward dependence scales and subscales and between 5-HTT-LPR and the NS1 subscale are too weak for further interpretation. Our results do not confirm the hypothesis that there is a simple correlation between single gene polymorphisms and a personality trait measured by the TCI and NEO-FFI scales.
Serum Cardiac Troponin I in Acute Stroke Is Related to Serum Cortisol and TNF-α
Authors: Christensen Hanne , Johannesen Helle Hjorth , Christensen Anders Fogh , Bendtzen Klaus , Boysen Gudrun
Published: July 2004

Background: Serum cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is a specific marker of myocardial injury related to in-patient fatality and cardiac injury in acute stroke. We investigated whether cTnI in acute stroke is related to serum cortisol, acute inflammatory response, and insular damage. We also investigated whether cTnI predicted outcome at 3 months. Patients and Methods: The study was based on 155 patients with CT-confirmed acute cerebral infarction and study inclusion within 24 h (50% within 12 h) of stroke onset. Blood samples were obtained on inclusion. Stroke severity was assessed by the Scandinavian Stroke Scale (SSS) and outcome was assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), death or dependency was defined as mRS ≧3 three months after stroke. Results: 35% of all patients and 63% of patients who died within 3 months were troponin positive. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and cortisol were independently related to detection of cTnI: TNF-α+100 pg/ml OR 1.5 (CI 95% 1.1–2.2), cortisol+100 nmol/l OR 1.1 (CI 95% 1.01–1.2). SSS and age were also included in this model and did not reach significance. cTnI positivity was, together with age, stroke severity and prestroke mRS, but not s-cortisol, an independent explanatory variable of outcome at 3 months (death or dependency) with OR 4.1 (CI 95% 1.1–14.5). cTnI did not relate to insular involvement. Conclusion: In this study, cortisol and TNF-α were independently related to cTnI, which was predictive of 3-month prognosis.
The Value of Remanufactured Engines: Life‐Cycle Environmental and Economic Perspectives
Authors: Smith Vanessa M. , Keoleian Gregory A.
Published: August 2004

Remanufacturing restores used automotive engines to like‐new condition, providing engines that are functionally equivalent to a new engine at much lower environmental and economic costs than the manufacture of a new engine. A life‐cycle assessment (LCA) model was developed to investigate the energy savings and pollution prevention that are achieved in the United States through remanufacturing a midsized automotive gasoline engine compared to an original equipment manufacturer manufacturing a new one. A typical full‐service machine shop, which is representative of 55% of the engine remanufacturers in the United States, was inventoried, and three scenarios for part replacement were analyzed. The life‐cycle model showed that the remanufactured engine could be produced with 68% to 83% less energy and 73% to 87% fewer carbon dioxide emissions. The life‐cycle model showed significant savings for other air emissions as well, with 48% to 88% carbon monoxide (CO) reductions, 72% to 85% nitrogen oxide (NOx) reductions, 71% to 84% sulfur oxide (SOx) reductions, and 50% to 61% nonmethane hydrocarbon reductions. Raw material consumption was reduced by 26% to 90%, and solid waste generation was reduced by 65% to 88%. The comparison of environmental burdens is accompanied by an economic survey of suppliers of new and remanufactured automotive engines showing a price difference for the consumer of between 30% and 53% for the remanufactured engine, with the greatest savings realized when the remanufactured engine is purchased directly from the remanufacturer.
Erythroblasts secrete the nonclassical HLA-G molecule from primitive to definitive hematopoiesis
Authors: Menier Catherine , Rabreau Michèle , Challier Jean-Claude , Le Discorde Magali , Carosella Edgardo D. , Rouas-Freiss Nathalie
Published: July 2004

The initial steps of primitive hematopoiesis and endothelial vascular formation in the human embryo remain to be defined. Here, we report the identification of a novel marker, namely the nonclassical HLA-G class I molecule, which targets both primitive erythroid cells of the yolk sac and endothelial cells from developing vessels. Moreover, HLA-G was present in its soluble form in the erythropoietic lineage in all organs sustaining primitive to definitive erythropoiesis (ie, aorta-gonad-mesonephros, liver, spleen, and bone marrow). The alternatively spliced transcript coding the soluble HLA-G5 molecule was detected in erythroid cells. The corresponding intron 4–retaining 37-kDa HLA-G5 isoform was secreted from the erythroid progenitor stage to the reticulocyte but was lost in mature erythrocytes and in endothelial cells from differentiated vessels. This study constitutes the first description of an HLA class I antigen expression on the primitive erythroid lineage and provides a way of seeking both primitive and definitive erythropoiesis using HLA-G5. This new marker, previously known by its immunotolerogeneic properties, may be involved in erythroid differentiation, angiogenesis, or both.
Amplifying cancer vaccine responses by modifying pathogenic gene programs in tumor cells
Authors: Spaner David E
Published: July 2004

Immunosuppressive factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor-β, prostaglandin E2, interleukin (IL)-10, and IL-6, are made frequently by cancer cells. These factors, along with others, can inhibit the development and function of tumor-reactive effector T cells and the clinical results of cancer vaccines. Production of these factors by tumor cells is associated with disease progression and may represent an active immune surveillance escape mechanism. However, a number of factors appear to be made directly in response to signaling molecules, such as RAS, AKT, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, which are activated as a result of genetic events that occur during oncogenesis. Methods to overcome the negative effects of immunosuppressive factors, which are “hard wired” into gene programs of cancer cells, might then improve the results of cancer vaccines. For example, specific blocking antibodies, which recognize such factors, or kinase inhibitors, which block the signaling pathways that lead to their production, could potentially be used as vaccine adjuvants. The effects of immunosuppressive factors may also be “turned off” by cytokines with tumor suppressor properties. The enhanced clinical and immunological effects of melanoma vaccines observed after the administration of high doses of interferon-α2b provide a “proof of principle” in human patients, that agents which counter the gene programs of cancer cells, causing them to intrinsically resist tumor-reactive T cells, may improve significantly the efficacy of cancer vaccines.
Effect of a medication management training package for nurses on clinical outcomes for patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Gray Richard , Wykes Til , Edmonds Melisa , Leese Morven , Gournay Kevin
Published: July 2004

Background

Non-compliance attenuates the efficacy of treatments for physical and mental disorders.

Aims

To assess the effectiveness of a medication management training package for community mental health nurses (CMHNs) in improving compliance and clinical outcomes in patients with schizophrenia.

Method

Pragmatic randomised controlled trial. Sixty CMHNs in geographical clusters were assigned randomly to medication management training or treatment as usual. Each CMHN identified two patients on their case-load who were assessed at baseline and again after 6 months by a research worker. The primary efficacy outcome of interest was psycho-pathology, measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS).

Results

Nurses who had received medication management training produced a significantly greater reduction in patients' overall psychopathology compared with treatment as usual at the end of the 6-month study period (change in PANSS total scores: medication management – 16.62, treatment as usual 1.17; difference – 17.79; 95% CI – 24.12 to – 11.45; P<0.001).

Conclusions

Medication management training for CMHNs is effective in improving clinical outcomes in patients with schizophrenia.
Seismology and Tectonic Setting of the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Valensise Gianluca , Pantosti Daniela , Basili Roberto
Published: July 2004

Two Mw 5.7 earthquakes struck a sparsely populated region of southern Italy, on October 31 and November 1, triggering a swarm-like sequence that lasted for several days. The earthquakes were caused by pure right-lateral slip between 10 and 24 km depth over a nearly vertical, previously undetected east-west fault. This mechanism is not typical for southern Italy, where normal faulting in the uppermost 12 km of the crust seems to dominate. However, east-west strike-slip faulting is kinematically consistent with the widely documented Apennines extension. The earthquake-causative fault appears to connect the Mattinata fault, a major active strike-slip feature cutting across the Gargano promontory, with east-west structures known beneath the axial part of the Apennines. The 2002 earthquakes thus highlighted a mode of earthquake release that may explain several large yet poorly understood historical earthquakes (e.g., 1361, 1456, 1731, 1930) located between the crest of the Apennines and the Adriatic coastline.
Strong Motion Records of the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake Sequence and Stochastic Simulation of the Main Shock
Authors: Gorini Antonella , Marcucci Sandro , Marsan Paolo , Milana Giuliano
Published: July 2004

The far field radiation inferred from accelerometric data recorded by the Italian Strong Motion Network (RAN) during the October 31, 2002, Molise, Italy, earthquake indicates a strong anisotropy in PGA distribution that presents its maximum values in the eastern part of the epicentral area. This study explores an interpretation of source directivity using a stochastic approach to produce synthetic seismograms accounting for source dimensions and rupture evolution. An E-W strike-slip fault, with a dip close to 90° and a fault plane size of (8×6) km2, reproduces satisfactorily both peak accelerations and spectral shapes of the recorded data when the rupture enucleates from the western edge at a depth of about 20 km and propagates eastward. This approach allows us to put constraints on seismic source characteristics and can be used to simulate ground motion for the most damaged areas where strong motion data are not available.
The 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake: Geological and Geomorphological Data on the San Giuliano di Puglia Area
Authors: Casciello Emilio , Cesarano Massimo , Naso Giuseppe , Pappone Gerardo , Rosskopf Carmen
Published: July 2004

The small village of San Giuliano di Puglia sustained the most severe damage from the Molise earthquake sequence of 2002. This study involved detailed geological and geomorphological mapping and is supported by a large set of geotechnical, geophysical and drill-hole data available from existing studies. These data were used to compile a seismic microzonation map of the San Giuliano di Puglia area as part of a study officially commissioned by the Department of Civil Protection. The map provides seismic hazard information that will be useful in the repair and reconstruction of the town.
Performance of Masonry Buildings during the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Decanini Luis , De Sortis Adriano , Goretti Agostino , Langenbach Randolph , Mollaioli Fabrizio , Rasulo Alessandro
Published: July 2004

The 2002 Molise, Italy, earthquake struck a relatively limited geographical area where the communities are mainly agrarian. While most buildings in the region are masonry, there are significant differences in the type of masonry construction, as material characteristics and construction practices had changed over the centuries. This paper focuses on the masonry buildings that predominate in domestic construction. The most significant features that contributed to the damage pattern appear to be (1) construction criteria, techniques, and details that were inadequate for seismically active areas, particularly in buildings constructed or substantially modified over the past 100 years, and (2) site effects resulting from differences in amplification and frequency of the vibrations that locally increased the destructiveness of the earthquake. The observed damage did not correlate to the vulnerability that would be assigned to the structures under the European Macroseismic Scale.
Performance of Reinforced Concrete Buildings during the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Decanini Luis D. , De Sortis Adriano , Goretti Agostino , Liberatore Laura , Mollaioli Fabrizio , Bazzurro Paolo
Published: July 2004

About 10% of the almost 20,000 buildings damaged by the 2002 Molise, Italy, seismic sequence were reinforced concrete (RC). The most frequent type of damage affected the infill masonry walls, but in some cases cracks in concrete columns were observed. Heavy damage to both infills and structural elements was restricted to a few cases in the meizoseismal area. Almost all the affected municipalities were only classified as seismic in May 2003, following this earthquake. Consequently, construction generally used vertical-load-bearing moment-resisting frames with no explicit design for seismic lateral forces. In particular, the reinforced concrete buildings typically consist of cast-in-place unidirectional RC slabs lightened with hollow clay tiles, supported by RC beams and columns. Usually no shear walls are present, except in some cases for the elevator shaft. This paper covers: a) an overview and statistical analysis of damage to RC buildings, and b) a detailed analysis of two damaged buildings.
Macroseismic Survey of the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake and Historical Seismicity of San Giuliano di Puglia
Authors: Galli Paolo , Molin Diego
Published: July 2004

The eastern Molise earthquake had an epicentral intensity of Io=7–8 MCS (Mercalli-Cancani-Sieberg scale) and a maximum intensity of Imax=8–9 in the village of San Giuliano di Puglia. The historical portion of this village, built on a marly limestone hill, had intensities of 6–7 MCS, whereas the most recently developed area, on a crest of marly clays, had a local intensity of I=9–10 MCS, and was almost totally destroyed. Neighboring villages were generally struck with an intensity of 6–7 MCS. In several places, the damage was due to gravity-driven phenomena affecting both the rocky and clayey substratum of the villages. The epicentral area is characterized by the lack of historical earthquakes comparable to the 2002 sequence, having suffered only the effects of distant, strong (M>6.5) events, coming either from the Apennine seismogenic belt or from the Gargano area.
Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR) Measurements in the Area Damaged by the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Gallipoli Maria Rosaria , Mucciarelli Marco , Gallicchio Salvatore , Tropeano Marcello , Lizza Carmine
Published: July 2004

Following the 2002 Molise, Italy, earthquake, we performed a set of horizontal to vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) measurements in the damaged area. We recorded microtremors in all the municipalities reaching VI on the Mercalli-Cancani-Sieberg intensity scale. To calibrate our measurements, we installed accelerometers in two of the most damaged areas. We wanted to study HVSR in an area that is geologically different from areas commonly affected by earthquakes in the Southern Apennines. We also wanted to avoid the damage-attraction effect: after a strong event, most researchers study site amplification just where most of the damage has occurred. They might not consider that different structure vulnerability may mask the true distribution of site amplification. We checked for a possible correlation between observed intensity and the average of the non-flat HVSR measured in each municipality. The significant correlation indicates that site amplification has played a role in the damage pattern observed.
The Relationship between Damage and Peak Accelerations in Ripabottoni during the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Isella Luana , Podestà Stefano , Resemini Sonia , Pasta Marco , Eva Claudio
Published: July 2004

After the main shocks of the 2002 Molise, Italy, earthquake sequence, the University of Genoa Geophysical Section (Dip. Te. Ris) installed a temporary seismic network, composed of two velocimetric and two accelerometric stations, in the village of Ripabottoni (Campobasso Province), near the epicentral area. These stations were implemented in the regional network of seismic instruments installed after November 1 by geophysical institutes from Rome and Trieste, Italy. The network registered more than 2,000 aftershocks with magnitudes ranging from 1.0–4.0. A DISEG Group also participated in a survey coordinated by the Larino Emergency Operations Center to examine damaged churches. The preliminary data, which correlates the waveform of the available recordings from aftershocks with damaged masonry pillars, indicates that the damage may relate not only to the intrinsic vulnerability of this building type, but also to the high energy in the high frequency range observed in the vertical component of the earthquakes.
Damage and Vulnerability Assessment of Churches after the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Lagomarsino Sergio , Podestà Stefano
Published: July 2004

The 2002 Molise, Italy, earthquake sequence shocked the Italian public because it killed school children, but it also highlighted the fact that seismic vulnerability of historic masonry buildings has increased because of reinforcement work that has been done in the last 50 years. Replacing the original wooden roof structure with new reinforced concrete or steel elements, inserting reinforced concrete tie-beams in the masonry and new reinforced concrete floors, and using reinforced concrete jacketing on the shear walls are all widely used interventions. However, they lead to increased seismic force (because of greater weight) and to deformations incompatible with the masonry walls. The authors present results of an extensive survey of damage resulting from recent Italian seismic events (with particular reference to the Molise earthquake). We evaluate the effectiveness and applicability of some retrofitting methods in the hope that these findings will be taken into account in technical codes.
On the Cross of Sant'Andrea: The Response to the Tragedy of San Giuliano di Puglia following the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Langenbach Randolph , Dusi Alberto
Published: July 2004

This paper reviews the recovery process in San Giuliano di Puglia, the one town in the Molise earthquake to suffer both extensive fatalities and widespread severe damage to its building stock. It focuses on three issues related to the recovery process: (1) the initial decision to close the central part of the town and to relocate most of the townspeople into temporary housing, (2) the location and design of the temporary “new village,” (3) the demolition rather than repair of many damaged buildings, and (4) the ongoing planning for the permanent relocation of the town center to a new area away from what had been the town's “main street.” The paper discusses the inspection, shoring and demolition process. Connecting all these issues is the question of how relief aid should be managed to best assist in recovery on all levels, including the psychological well-being of the people and the community.
Socio-Geographic Dimensions of Recovery from the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Shin Michael E.
Published: July 2004

Several factors influence the abilities of communities to cope with, respond to, and recover from earthquakes. Beyond the uncontrollable geophysical factors (e.g., the magnitude and type of earthquake) are the complex array of historic, social, economic, political, and cultural forces that affect loss reduction, response, and recovery. This paper uses a geographic perspective to situate the communities most affected by the 2002 Molise, Italy, event. This area of Italy is characterized by economic underdevelopment, an aging population, and out-migration. The earthquake effects may exacerbate these preexisting conditions. In order to obtain reliable and accurate insights into the recovery process, better socio-economic data and information must be gathered following seismic events. Such data are essential to understanding the process and dimensions of recovery in Molise and in other locations.
The Large Salcito Landslide Triggered by the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Bozzano Francesca , Martino Salvatore , Naso Giuseppe , Prestininzi Alberto , Romeo Roberto Walter , Mugnozza Gabriele Scarascia
Published: July 2004

The 2002 Molise, Italy, earthquake triggered a deep planar earthslide about 38 km away from the epicenter, mainly involving scaly clay shales and related weathered material. Based on site investigations and borehole data, the inferred depth of the sliding surface is between 30 and 50 meters below ground level, indicating an involved volume of about 40⋅106 m3. The complex geological setting, the generated excess pore water pressure, and possible local seismic response are thought to have been the primary contributing factors.
Analysis of Site Amplification Phenomena: An Application in Ripabottoni for the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Massa Marco , Ferretti Gabriele , Cevasco Andrea , Isella Luana , Eva Claudio
Published: July 2004

The geophysical working group of the University of Genoa conducted a field experiment to analyze site amplification effects in Ripabottoni, a village in the Molise region of Italy. We used both noise and earthquake recordings, combined with detailed geologic and geotechnical surveys, to define site amplification phenomena. The site effects determination was obtained using the Nakamura technique and the H/V spectral analysis applied to earthquake recordings. The results were validated by applying a one-dimensional simulation code. The computed spectral ratios point out three different typologies of site effects: the southern sector of Ripabottoni is characterized by an absence of local amplification phenomena; the central sector of the village shows a local amplification phenomena with a fundamental frequency of 4–6 Hz; and the northeastern side of the village shows a site response at a fundamental frequency between 2–3 Hz.
Damage, Vulnerability and Retrofitting Strategies for the Molise Hospital System following the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Nuti Camillo , Santini Silvia , Vanzi Ivo
Published: July 2004

The earthquake of October 31, 2002, inflicted moderate damage on the region of Molise in southern Italy. However, it attracted much attention because almost all the victims were children killed in the structural failure of their primary school. This paper focuses on a different, but equally important, structural type: hospitals. The earthquake left them largely untouched. In the paper we first give a detailed picture of the structural damage and of the organization of emergency operations. Then we try to give guidance about the most effective retrofitting strategies for the regional hospital system as a whole, following a methodology developed in Nuti and Vanzi (1998b), which has been adjusted for this case study. Depending on the community decision criteria, the hospitals of Campobasso and Bojano appear to have the highest priority for retrofitting, even though they were unscathed by the event.
Performance of Lifelines during the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Rasulo Alessandro , Goretti Agostino , Nuti Camillo
Published: July 2004

The Molise earthquake affected a wide rural area with sparse houses, villages and towns. The paper investigates the response of water, electric power, telecommunications, natural gas, rail and motorway systems. Despite the amount of damage to buildings, lifeline systems reported only minor damage. The damage was light not only because the event caused relatively moderate ground motion in the affected area but also because the main lifelines do not cross the epicentral region and were in a fair state of maintenance.
Emergency Management, Recovery, and Reconstruction following the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Foster Barbara , Kodama Sandro
Published: July 2004

The Molise earthquake received widespread attention within Italy because of its devastating impact on the residents and on the economy of the sparsely populated regions of Molise and Puglia. Overall, 91 municipalities requested government assistance, including 65 in the province of Campobasso and 26 in the province of Foggia. The most extensive damage was to the village of San Giuliano di Puglia, where 27 children and one teacher were killed in a collapse of the primary school and the entire town has been relocated to a temporary village for an estimated two years. The disaster served as a catalyst for immediate changes to Italy's seismic law and regulations. This paper explores some of the challenges that confronted emergency managers, planners and victims during the response phase, and summarizes the economic impacts and recovery and reconstruction efforts.
Building Inspection and Damage Data for the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Goretti Agostino , Di Pasquale Giacomo
Published: July 2004

Shortly after the October 31, 2002, Molise, Italy, earthquake, a widespread fitness-for-service and building damage assessment was launched. In two months, more than 23,000 buildings were inspected using a standardized damage assessment form. As many as 100 inspection teams, consisting of public servants and volunteer professionals, totaled approximately 80,000 person-hours. Analysis of the collected building type and damage data shows high-vulnerability masonry buildings with significant preexisting damage. With the sole exception of San Giuliano, the modal values of the observed damage occurred for the negligible-to-slight damage levels D=0 or D=1, with only a few buildings showing higher damage levels. Nevertheless, due to their high vulnerability, about 40% of the inspected buildings were unusable, with important consequences for the number of people needing shelter. The survey made it possible to determine the usability of about 12,000 buildings and the repairs needed for about 1,000 buildings.
Performance of School Buildings during the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Augenti Nicola , Cosenza Edoardo , Dolce Mauro , Manfredi Gaetano , Masi Angelo , Samela Linda
Published: July 2004

The authors inspected approximately 300 primary and secondary schools in 87 municipalities of Molise. About 40% were masonry structures, 40% were reinforced concrete (RC) frame structures, and the remaining 20% were a variety of structures. Almost all of them were built without seismic criteria and most had no more than three stories. In this paper we compare the distribution of the damage with the vulnerability classes. The collapses in San Giuliano di Puglia highlight the comparative vulnerabilities related to structural types, construction phases, and location.
The 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Maffei Joe , Bazzurro Paolo
Published: July 2004

On October 31 and November 1, 2002, two magnitude Mw 5.7 earthquakes struck the rural Molise region in southeastern Italy killing 30 people, 27 of whom were children trapped in the collapse of an elementary school. This paper summarizes the earthquake's effects and, as the introductory paper to Spectra's special issue on the Molise event, highlights the findings of ongoing studies of the technical and social lessons afforded by the disaster. In 1998 the area was declared a medium seismicity zone, but an administrative delay in updating the seismic zonation meant that up until the time of the earthquake, there were no seismic requirements for new construction—construction that included a 2002 second-story addition to the school that collapsed. The emergency response and recovery planning following the earthquake were notable for the technical sophistication and abundant government resources that have been applied, including the building of a prefabricated temporary village.
Seismic Hazard and Seismic Zonation of the Region Affected by the 2002 Molise, Italy, Earthquake
Authors: Decanini Luis , Di Pasquale Giacomo , Galli Paolo , Mollaioli Fabrizio , Sanò Tito
Published: July 2004

In 1998, a new system of seismic classification promoted by the Department of Civil Protection identified the area in Italy hit by the 2002 earthquake in Molise and Puglia as a Zone 2 (moderately seismic). However, this classification was not adopted until March 2003, when an ordinance passed that partially closed the gap between scientific knowledge and official recognition of seismic hazard and that established a method for constantly updating the classification in the future. This paper reviews some of the methods available to assess the seismic hazard, particularly referring to the rich seismic history of Italy and using the “Associated Seismic Area” concept. This study confirms that the area affected by this earthquake should be considered as Zone 2. An appendix presents data on the seismic risk of existing buildings in the area and concludes that it is high for masonry buildings and that a strengthening program is needed.
Patient-Physician Concordance: Preferences, Perceptions, and Factors Influencing the Breast Cancer Surgical Decision
Authors: Janz Nancy K. , Wren Patricia A. , Copeland Laurel A. , Lowery Julie C. , Goldfarb Sherry L. , Wilkins Edwin G.
Published: July 2004

Purpose

This study explored patient preferences for involvement in the breast cancer treatment decision and concordance between patients' and physicians' views on decisional role. The impact of demographic and psychosocial characteristics on patients' decisional role was also examined.

Patients and Methods

Women with stage I or II breast cancer who were candidates for either mastectomy or lumpectomy were recruited from a university breast cancer treatment center. Patient interviews were obtained before meeting the surgical oncologist and again after the treatment decision was made but before surgical intervention. Clinician responses were obtained after the consultation.

Results

The 101 participants were generally white (97%), married (80%), and well-educated. They reported moderate levels of depression and anxiety but good social support and self-efficacy in communicating with their physician. Before the consultation, 47% of women reported a preference for shared decision making; afterwards, 61% felt they had primary responsibility for the decision. Only 38% of patients agreed with the physician's assessment of how the treatment decision was made. In regression analyses, higher education was significantly associated with patients' preferred level of control (P = .01). There was a trend toward women with greater self-efficacy desiring more active decisional roles (P = .08). Patient preference for decision making did not impact time in the patient-physician encounter, but more influence did increase satisfaction.

Conclusion

Limited concordance between patient preference and patient perception and between patient and physician perception in how the treatment decision was made suggests the need for better communication between patient and clinician during a critical treatment encounter for breast cancer patients.
Her-2/neu Overexpression and Amplification in Uterine Papillary Serous Carcinoma
Authors: Slomovitz Brian M. , Broaddus Russell R. , Burke Thomas W. , Sneige Nour , Soliman Pamela T. , Wu Weiguo , Sun Charlotte C. , Munsell Mark F. , Gershenson David M. , Lu Karen H.
Published: July 2004

Purpose

Uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC) is an aggressive subtype of endometrial cancer characterized by early metastasis, resistance to therapy, and a high mortality rate. Little is known about the biology of these tumors. Smaller studies suggest that Her-2/neu may be involved in the tumorigenesis of this disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protein expression and gene amplification of Her-2/neu in UPSC and to determine its prognostic value.

Patients and Methods

Tumor tissue from 68 patients with UPSC treated at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center from 1989 to 2002 was available. Her-2/neu expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Overexpression was defined as complete membrane staining in greater than 10% of the cells. In tumors with overexpression of Her-2/neu by IHC, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed to assess gene amplification. Clinical and pathologic information was obtained from medical records.

Results

Twelve (18%) of 68 tumors demonstrated Her-2/neu overexpression. Of these, only two showed gene amplification. When evaluating all 68 patients, Her-2/neu overexpression was associated with a poorer overall survival (OS; P = .008). In our multivariate Cox proportional hazards models, Her-2/neu IHC overexpression, lymph node status, and stage were each associated with OS (P ≤ .05).

Conclusion

Positive IHC overexpression of Her-2/neu was seen in 18% of UPSCs but was rarely correlated with Her-2/neu gene amplification. Overexpression of Her-2/neu was associated with a worse overall prognosis. The use of trastuzumab (Herceptin; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA) in women with UPSC should be further evaluated in a clinical trial setting.
Characterization and expression of plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase(PMCA3) in the crayfishProcambarus clarkiiantennal gland during molting
Authors: Gao Yongping , Wheatly Michele G.
Published: July 2004

The discontinuous pattern of crustacean cuticular mineralization (the molting cycle) has emerged as a model system to study the spatial and temporal regulation of genes that code for Ca2+-transporting proteins including pumps, channels and exchangers. The plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA) is potentially of significant interest due to its role in the active transport of Ca2+ across the basolateral membrane, which is required for routine maintenance of intracellular Ca2+ as well as unidirectional Ca2+ influx. Prior research has suggested that PMCA expression is upregulated during periods of elevated Ca2+ influx associated with postmolt cuticular mineralization. This paper describes the cloning, sequencing and functional characterization of a novel PMCA3 gene from the antennal gland(kidney) of the crayfish Procambarus clarkii. The complete sequence,the first obtained from a non-genetic invertebrate species, was obtained through reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) techniques. Crayfish PMCA3 consists of 4148 bp with a 3546 bp open reading frame coding for 1182 amino acid residues with a molecular mass of 130 kDa. It exhibits 77.5-80.9% identity at the mRNA level and 85.3-86.9% identity at the protein level with PMCA3 from human, mouse and rat. Membrane topography was typical of published mammalian PMCAs. Northern blot analysis of total RNA from crayfish gill, antennal gland,cardiac muscle and axial abdominal muscle revealed that a 7.5 kb species was ubiquitous. The level of PMCA3 mRNA expression in all tissues(transporting epithelia and muscle) increased significantly in pre/postmolt stages compared with relatively low abundance in intermolt. Western analysis confirmed corresponding changes in PMCA protein expression (130 kDa).
Cytotoxicity of diatom-derived oxylipins in organisms belonging to different phyla
Authors: Adolph Sven , Bach Stéphane , Blondel Marc , Cueff Anne , Moreau Marjolaine , Pohnert Georg , Poulet Serge André , Wichard Thomas , Zuccaro Alga
Published: July 2004

The cytotoxicity of several saturated and unsaturated marine diatom-derived aldehydes and an oxo-acid have been screened in vitro and in vivo against different organisms, such as bacteria, algae, fungi,echinoderms, molluscs and crustaceans. Conjugated unsaturated aldehydes like 2E,4E-decadienal, 2E,4E-octadienal,5E,7E-9-oxo-nonadienoic acid and 2E-decenal were active against bacteria and fungi and showed weak algicidal activity. By contrast, the saturated aldehyde decanal and the non-conjugated aldehyde 4Z-decenal had either low or no significant biological activity. In assays with oyster haemocytes, 2E,4E-decadienal exhibited a dose-dependent inhibition of cytoskeleton organisation, rate of phagocytosis and oxidative burst and a dose-dependent promotion of apoptosis. A maternal diatom diet that was rich in unsaturated aldehydes induced arrest of cell division and apoptotic cell degradation in copepod embryos and larvae,respectively. This wide spectrum of physiological pathologies reflects the potent cell toxicity of diatom-derived oxylipins, in relation to their non-specific chemical reactivity towards nucleophilic biomolecules. The cytotoxic activity is conserved across six phyla, from bacteria to crustaceans. Deregulation of cell homeostasis is supposed to induce the elimination of damaged cells through apoptosis. However, efficient protection mechanisms possibly exist in unicellular organisms. Experiments with a genetically modified yeast species exhibiting elevated membrane and/or cell wall permeability suggest that this protection can be related to the inability of the oxylipin compounds to enter the cell.
Effect of water depth and water velocity upon the surfacing frequency of the bimodally respiring freshwater turtle,Rheodytes leukops
Authors: Gordos Matthew A. , Franklin Craig E. , Limpus Colin J.
Published: July 2004

This study examines the effect of increasing water depth and water velocity upon the surfacing behaviour of the bimodally respiring turtle, Rheodytes leukops. Surfacing frequency was recorded for R. leukops at varying water depths (50, 100, 150 cm) and water velocities (5, 15, 30 cm s-1) during independent trials to provide an indirect cost-benefit analysis of aquatic versus pulmonary respiration. With increasing water velocity, R. leukops decreased its surfacing frequency twentyfold, thus suggesting a heightened reliance upon aquatic gas exchange. An elevated reliance upon aquatic respiration, which presumably translates into a decreased air-breathing frequency, may be metabolically more efficient for R. leukops compared to the expenditure (i.e. time and energy)associated with air-breathing within fast-flowing riffle zones. Additionally, R. leukops at higher water velocities preferentially selected low-velocity microhabitats, presumably to avoid the metabolic expenditure associated with high water flow. Alternatively, increasing water depth had no effect upon the surfacing frequency of R. leukops, suggesting little to no change in the respiratory partitioning of the species across treatment settings. Routinely long dives (>90 min) recorded for R. leukopsindicate a high reliance upon aquatic O2 uptake regardless of water depth. Moreover, metabolic and temporal costs attributed to pulmonary gas exchange within a pool-like environment were likely minimal for R. leukops, irrespective of water depth.
The effects of intense wing molt on diving in alcids and potential influences on the evolution of molt patterns
Authors: Bridge Eli S.
Published: July 2004

Large and medium-sized alcids have a very intense wing molt wherein many flight feathers are shed in rapid succession and wing surface area is reduced by as much as 40%. Although these birds are rendered flightless during wing molt, they must still use their wings to propel themselves underwater. A molt-induced loss of wing area could simply reduce wing propulsion such that more muscular work would be required to maintain a given speed. Alternatively,molt could reduce drag on the wings, making a bird more penguin-like and actually enhancing diving ability. I addressed this issue by filming captive common guillemots Uria aalge and tufted puffins Fratercula cirrhata using an array of video cameras to plot the birds' movements in three dimensions. From these coordinate data I calculated swimming velocities,angles of descent and absolute depths. These values allowed me to estimate the forces due to drag and buoyancy that must be counteracted by flapping, which in turn yielded estimates of the amount of work generated during each flap as well as the average power and cost of transport. Within-bird comparisons of diving performance when wings were intact and during several stages of wing molt indicated that molt is associated with more frequent flapping, reduced displacement during the flap cycle, and possibly reduced work per flap. These negative effects on diving may explain why primary and secondary molts were offset in the birds I studied such that the period during which all of the flight feathers are effectively missing is minimized.
Expression of hypothalamic arginine vasotocin gene in response to water deprivation and sex steroid administration in female Japanese quail
Authors: Seth R. , Köhler A. , Grossmann R. , Chaturvedi C. M.
Published: July 2004

Arginine vasotocin (AVT) is a neurohypophyseal hormone involved in reproductive function and control of osmoregulation in birds. In view of the dual function of AVT, the present experiment was designed to observe the effect of water deprivation (WD) and sex steroid [estradiol benzoate (EB) and testosterone propionate (TP)] treatment independently, as well as simultaneously, on the profile/activity of the hypothalamic AVT system. WD resulted in a significant increase in plasma osmolality, sodium ion concentration and AVT concentration, but administration of sex steroids had no significant influence on these parameters. By contrast, the amount of hypothalamic AVT transcript (northern analysis) and the size of immunoreactive vasotocin (ir-AVT) neurons and hybridization signals (in the form of silver grains), representing AVT mRNA in corresponding neurons of paraventricular nuclei (PVN), increased significantly in all the treated groups compared with controls. Our findings indicate that although sex steroid administration has no effect on plasma osmolality and AVT concentration, unlike water deprivation, it may stimulate the profile/activity of AVT neurons of PVN,supporting the possibility of sex steroid receptors on these neurons. It is concluded that in quail, osmotic stress not only upregulates the expression of the AVT gene in existing neurons but also recruits many more neurons to increase the rate of AVT synthesis and secretion, while sex steroids appear to have a stimulatory effect only on the existing number of neurons and only at the level of transcription/translation and hence may influence/modulate hypothalamic AVT gene expression in response to osmotic stress. This study also suggests an interrelationship between reproduction and AVT system/function in birds.
Thermal stability and muscle efficiency in hovering orchid bees (Apidae:Euglossini)
Authors: Borrell Brendan J. , Medeiros Matthew J.
Published: July 2004

To test whether variation in muscle efficiency contributes to thermal stability during flight in the orchid bee, Euglossa imperialis, we measured CO2 production, heat loss and flight kinematics at different air temperatures (Ta). We also examined the relationship between wingbeat frequency (WBF) and Ta in five additional species of orchid bees. Mean thoracic temperature (Tth) for Eg. imperialishovering in a screened insectary and in the field was 39.3±0.77°C(mean ± 95% C.I.), and the slope of Tth on Ta was 0.57. Head and abdominal temperature excess ratios declined with Ta, indicating that Eg. imperialiswere not increasing heat dissipation from the thorax at high Ta. Elevation of Tth above Ta was correlated with WBF, but Tth alone was not. Estimates of heat production from both respirometry and heat loss experiments decreased 33% as Tarose from 24 to 34°C. Mean muscle efficiency over this temperature range was 18% assuming perfect elastic energy storage and 22% assuming zero elastic energy storage. Both efficiency estimates increased significantly as Ta rose from 24 to 34°C. In all six species examined, WBF declined significantly with Ta. These data indicate that hovering orchid bees regulate heat production through changes in wingbeat kinematics and consequent changes in energy conversion by the flight motor. Temperature-dependent variation in elastic energy storage or muscle contraction efficiency or both may contribute to the observed trends.