bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Shi-ka-ron on Cytokine Production of Lymphocytes in Mice Treated with Cyclophosphamide
Authors: Jin Rui , Kurashige Satonori
Published: November 2004

The effect of Shi-ka-ron (CX) on cytokine production of lymphocytes in mice treated with cyclophosphamide was investigated. Shi-ka-ron, a traditional Chinese prescription, consists of 8 crude Chinese herbal extracts. Its main efficacy is to strengthen the body resistance. We observed that each CX component stimulated interleukine-2 and interferon-γ production of murine splenic lymphocytes both in vitro and in vivo. IL-2 and IFN-γ production of splenic lymphocytes were also examined in mice treated with CX combined with cyclophosphamide (CY) in vivo. We found that CX not only could increase IL-2 and IFN-γ production in vitro, but also in vivo at suboptimal concentration.
Anti-inflammatory and Radical Scavenge Effects of Arctium lappa
Authors: Lin Chun-Ching , Lin Jer-Min , Yang Jeng-Jer , Chuang Shu-Chuan , Ujiie Takashi
Published: November 2004

The effects of Arctium lappa L. (root) on anti-inflammatory and free radical scavenger activity were investigated. Subcutaneous administration of A. lappa crude extract significantly decreased carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. When simultaneously treated with CCl4, it produced pronounced activities against CCl4-induced acute liver damage. The free radical scavenging activity of its crude extract was also examined by means of an electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrometer. The IC50 of A. lappa extract on superoxide and hydroxyl radical scavenger activity was 2.06 mg/m 11.8 mg/m1, respectively. These findings suggest that Arctium lappa possess free radical scavenging activity. The inhibitory effects on carrageenan-induced paw edema and CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity could be due to the scavenging effect of A. lappa.
Acute Effect of Qigong Training on Stress Hormonal Levels in Man
Authors: Ryu Hoon , Lee Ho-Sub , Shin Young-Sub , Chung Seong-Min , Lee Myeong-Soo , Kim Hyung-Min , Chung Hun-Taeg
Published: November 2004

We observed the acute effects of Qigong training on the levels of human endogenous opioid peptides, such as beta-endorphin, and other stress hormones [adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S)] in a group of ChunDoSunBup Qigong trainees. At pre (-10 min), mid (40 min) and post (70 min) time of training, blood was taken for the determination of plasma level of hormones. The level of beta-endorphin was significantly increased during the mid-time of training while the level of ACTH declined at the mid- and post- time of training. Cortisol and DHEA-S were not significantly changed during training. This result suggests that Qigong training, as a stress coping method, affects and plays a role in hormonal regulation related to the maintenance of homeostasis in man.
The Hepatoprotective Effects of Taiwan Folk Medicine Ham-Hong-Chho in Rats
Authors: Chih Hwa-Woei , Lin Chun-Ching , Tanga Kung-Sheng
Published: November 2004

Bidens pilosa L. var minor (Blume) Sherff, B. pilosa L. and B. chilensis DC (compositae), commonly known as "Ham-hong-chho" in Taiwan, have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. To clarify and compare the hepatoprotective effects of these three plants, we evaluated their potential effectiveness on CCl4- and acetaminophen-induced acute hepatic lesions in rats. The results indicated that the increase in SGOT and SGPT activities caused by CCl4 (3.0 mI/kg, s.c.) and acetaminophen administration (600 mg/kg, i.p.) could be significantly reduced by treating with the extracts of all the three kinds of "Ham-hong-chho" and the extract of B. chilensis exhibited the greatest hepatoprotective effects. These phenomena were also conflflDed by histological observation. Liver damage induced by CCl4 and acetaminophen was markedly improved in the extract of B. chilensis treated groups, while groups treated with the extracts of B. pilosa var minor and B. pilosa demonstrated only moderate protective effects. The pharmacological and pathological effects of these three crude groups were compared with Bupleurum chinense, which has been reported previously as a treatment criteria in the CCl4 model, and with silymarin as a standard reference medicine in the acetaminophen model. The results suggest that B. pilosa var minor, B. pilosa and B. chilensis can protect liver injuries from various hepatotoxins and have potential as broad spectrum antihepatic agents.
A DYNAMIC CONCEPTUAL MODEL TO EXPLORE TECHNOLOGY-BASED PERTURBATIONS TO A COMPLEX SYSTEM: THE LAND FORCE
Authors: CURTIS NEVILLE J. , DORTMANS PETER J.
Published: December 2004

Conceptual models are the critical first step to gaining distilled insights of complex systems. We use influence diagrams to link intuitive measures for Land Force actions with the inputs of the environment, and friendly and threat force actions. This approach provides a rich semiquantitative model that allows exploration of the effect of perturbation introduced through the adoption of enhanced equipment, innovative operational concepts, or novel technology concepts. We have built a construct for the Army based upon a set of influence diagrams for the skills of: engagement; information collection; sustainment; communication; protection; movement; and decision making. These produce mental maps that link military technologies, desired effects, and higher-level outcomes. Thus, there is a gradation of type within the influence diagram with position the key to the nature of the variable.

In this paper we describe these models and how we use them to deduce likely future military concepts through "what if" contemplations of possible technology or environmental changes. In reverse, this process advises on the criticality of the constituent components. Inter-relationships between various skills and issues associated with balancing requirements between these will be highlighted. This work thus leads to further distillation-like simulations such as agent-based modeling.
ELEMENTARY LIGHT NEUTRAL BOSONS: NEW LIMITS FROM PRECISION EXPERIMENTS
Authors: SCHÄFER A. , REINHARDT J. , GREINER W. , MÜLLER B.
Published: November 2004

We show that positronium hyperfine splitting and Delbrück scattering impose stringent bounds on the coupling of a light neutral boson to the electron-positron and the photon field. These limits are relevant for the “new-particle interpretation” of coincident electron-positron lines observed at GSI.
A COMMENT ON MASS SCALES OF EXOTIC COLOR CONDENSATES
Authors: ZHOU BANG-RONG
Published: November 2004

It is shown that, owing to the threshold effect of colored exotic fermions, the exotic color condensates can provide only one realistic dynamical scale of ~1 TeV which could come from the condensates of either colored 8-plet or colored 6-plet fermions.
FERMIONS IN SEVERAL EXTERNAL FIELDS
Authors: IVANOV B.V.
Published: November 2004

The effective action for 2-dimensional massless Dirac fermions in Abelian, non-Abelian and gravitational fields present together, is found by the proper-time method. The factorization of the Dirac operator induces factorization of the determinant, the Green function, the vacuum current and the operator solution. The proper-time regularization is compared with the point-splitting one.
EVIDENCE AGAINST A HYPOTHETICAL LIGHT SCALAR PARTICLE PRODUCED IN HEAVY ION COLLISION SYSTEMS
Authors: SCHRÖDER U.E.
Published: November 2004

The existence of a hypothetical light scalar particle with conventional coupling to hadrons that has been suggested in order to explain the positron lines observed in super-heavy collision systems is shown to be in violent contradiction with experimental data obtained in low energy neutron-nucleus scattering.
PERMUTABILITY OF A BÄCKLUND TRANSFORMATION FOR SELF-DUAL YANG-MILLS FIELDS
Authors: CHAU L.-L. , YEN H.C. , CHEN H.H. , CHINEA F.J. , LEE C.R. , SHAW J.C.
Published: November 2004

We prove a permutability theorem for a Bäcklund transformation of the SU(N) self-dual Yang-Mills fields as well as the 2-dimensional chiral model and its various extensions.
REDUNDANT POLARIZATION MEASUREMENTS IN PARTICLE INTERACTIONS WITH ARBITRARY SPIN j
Authors: RAVISHANKAR V. , RAMACHANDRAN G.
Published: November 2004

We show that it is enough to measure the spherical tensor parameters [Formula: see text] with k=2j alone to determine the reaction amplitudes involving a spin j particle. The recent result of Goldstein and Moravcsik for spin-1 particles turns out to be a particular case of our general result.
PARITY VIOLATION IN INELASTIC PROTON-PROTON SCATTERING
Authors: GORMAN R.M. , MCKELLAR B.H.J.
Published: November 2004

We consider the contribution of the reaction pp→NNπ via Δ(1232) production to the parity violating asymmetry [Formula: see text] where σ+(σ−) is the total cross section for the scattering of protons of positive (negative) helicity. We find that this part of the asymmetry has a magnitude of less than 10−7.
A SURVEY ON THE INTERACTION BETWEEN MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS AND GEOMETRY
Authors: YAU SHING-TUNG
Published: November 2004

The author was asked to give a survey on a general area between physics and geometry. It is a difficult job and the only attempt the author will make is to illustrate the interaction by examples. The examples chosen are based on the author’s prejudice toward some areas that are more familiar to him.
COMPLETE EXACT QUANTUM STATES OF THE GENERALIZED TIME-DEPENDENT HARMONIC OSCILLATOR
Authors: PEDROSA I. A.
Published: December 2004

By making use of linear and quadratic invariants and the invariant operator formulation of Lewis and Riesenfeld, the complete exact solutions of the Schrödinger equation for the generalized time-dependent harmonic oscillator are obtained. It is shown that the general solution of the system under consideration contains both the discrete and continuous spectrum. The connection between linear and quadratic invariants and their corresponding eigenstates via time-dependent auxiliary equations is also established.
NEW RESULTS ON OPTICAL ABSORPTION IN AMORPHOUS CADMIUM OXIDE FOR THE VISIBLE RANGE: A THEORETICAL APPROACH
Authors: GRADO-CAFFARO M. A. , GRADO-CAFFARO M.
Published: December 2004

Optical absorption of amorphous cadmium oxide in the visible region is investigated by considering the band-gap shift experienced by this material. At the same time, influence of oxygen partial pressure is studied so that new results related to absorption in the visible margin are obtained; these results agree well with experimental data. In addition, phonon density of states and its shift due to the band-gap shift are evaluated.
HOT ELECTRON RELAXATION IN A METAL NANOPARTICLE: ELECTRON SURFACE-PHONON INTERACTION
Authors: SINGH NAVINDER
Published: December 2004

The relaxation of hot electrons is considered in a metal nanoparticle. When the particle size is of the order of electron mean free path, the main channel of hot electron energy loss is through surface-phonon generation, rather than bulk phonon generation. A calculation for the hot electron relaxation by the generation of surface-phonons is given, assuming that electrons and surface-phonons are described by their equilibrium Fermi and Bose distribution functions. The assumption is valid because the time required to establish equilibrium in the electron gas is much less than the time for achieving equilibrium between the electrons and the surface-phonons. The expressions obtained for low-temperature and high-temperature regimes are inversely proportional to the radius of the particle. This shows that size dependency of electron surface-phonon energy exchange arises from the geometric effect.
STATISTICAL EVALUATION OF FAMILIAL RISK FACTORS IN TYPE 1 DIABETES
Authors: POLANSKA JOANNA
Published: November 2004

In this paper the familial risk factors related to type 1 diabetes is studied. The analysis is based on data collected during epidemiological research performed from 1989–1996 in Upper Silesia, Poland. Different statistical models that allow for evaluating risk factors are discussed and applied to the data.
THE EFFECTS OF VACCINATION AND TREATMENT ON THE SPREAD OF HIV/AIDS
Authors: KGOSIMORE M. , LUNGU E. M.
Published: November 2004

This study investigates the effects of vaccination and treatment on the spread of HIV/AIDS. The objectives are (i) to derive conditions for the success of vaccination and treatment programs and (ii) to derive threshold conditions for the existence and stability of equilibria in terms of the effective reproduction number R. It is found, firstly, that the success of a vaccination and treatment program is achieved when R0t<R0, R0t<R0v and γeRVT(σ)<RUT(α), where R0t and R0v are respectively the reproduction numbers for populations consisting entirely of treated and vaccinated individuals, R0 is the basic reproduction number in the absence of any intervention, RUT(α) and RVT(σ) are respectively the reproduction numbers in the presence of a treatment (α) and a combination of vaccination and treatment (σ) strategies. Secondly, that if R<1, there exists a unique disease free equilibrium point which is locally asymptotically stable, while if R>1 there exists a unique locally asymptotically stable endemic equilibrium point, and that the two equilibrium points coalesce at R=1. Lastly, it is concluded heuristically that the stable disease free equilibrium point exists when the conditions R0t<R0, R0t<R0v and γeRVT(σ)<RUT(α) are satisfied.
An Empirical Analysis of Australian Superannuation Fund Expenses
Authors: Malhotra D. K. , Martin R. , Marisetty V.
Published: November 2004

This study investigates the determinants of expense ratios of Australian superannuation funds. No prior research on this topic exists despite the importance of expense ratios for fund selection. We relate expense ratios to fund age, size, investment objective, sales charges, fund family membership, risk-adjusted return, and wholesale/retail category. Average expense ratios for wholesale funds are considerably lower than those of retail funds. For retail funds, expense ratios are positively related to investment objective and sales charge, and negatively related to fund age. For wholesale funds, they are negatively related to investment objective and positively related to fund age and size.
The Vertical Disintegration of Taiwan's Semiconductor Industries: Price and Non-Price Factors
Authors: Hung Shiu-Wan , Yang Chyan , Lee Cheng-Few
Published: November 2004

Taiwan's semiconductor industry has been prominent and ranks number four in the world. The vertical disintegration model of Taiwan's semiconductor is a very unique one among the integrated circuit industries around the world. The objective of this paper is to study the vertical disintegration management of Taiwan's semiconductor industries. A price model which there are both integrated (IDM) and unintegrated (IC foundry and IC fabless separated) firms was presented. A vertical disintegration model in which there is a Cournot–Nash equilibrium at both stages of production, upstream (IC design) and downstream (IC fabrication), has been proposed to explain analytically the market price changes subjected to vertical disintegration. It was suggested that the market price of the integrated circuit decreases if the numbers of IC fabless firms are more than half of the total IC firms and are more than the numbers of IC manufacturing firms. In addition, five non-price factors leading to the vertical disintegration of Taiwan's semiconductor industries have been proposed: (1) industrial localization and cluster, (2) fast changes of technology, (3) significant increase of development cost, (4) emergence of IC fabless, and (5) government support. By spinning off the equipment division which needs a high capital, the semiconductor company can actually make profits by concentrating more on the increasingly complex integrated circuit designs. The disintegrated foundry companies can provide advantages of more specialty, higher quality, lower cycle time and good cooperation relations for the IC fabless firms. The vertical disintegration of integrated circuits is expected to be the trend for future for semiconductor manufacturing. In addition, the future challenges and directions of Taiwan's semiconductor industries were also discussed.
Keiretsu Affiliation and Equity Values in Japan
Authors: Douthett Edward B. , Jung Kooyul , Park YoungKyu
Published: November 2004

This study examines the association between keiretsu affiliation and corporate equity value in Japan. We hypothesize that, ceteris paribus, keiretsu firm value, measured as Tobin's Q, is higher than non-keiretsu firm value, reflecting the improved or active monitoring role of the keiretsu arrangement. The empirical tests are supportive after controlling for other financial and ownership variables. The results also show that keiretsu firm value is positively related to the strength of the keiretsu. This is additional evidence that the monitoring provided by the keiretsu relationship does indeed increase corporate equity value, and that the source of the increase in value is not merely a result of cross-shareholding, but inherent to the keiretsu arrangement. However, the effect of keiretsu membership and influence on market equity values has apparently diminished since 1990 (the post-market crash period in Japan).
Pricing Interest Rate Swaps in Malaysia
Authors: Davies Dick , Hillier David , Marshall Andrew , Cheah King Fui
Published: November 2004

This paper compares the theoretical price of interest rate swaps implied from the yield curve with the actual Kuala Lumpur Interbank Offer Rates used for swap resets in the Malaysian swap market for both semi-annual and annual interest rate swaps between 1996 and 2002. As far as we are aware no previous paper has considered pricing swaps in a less established derivative markets. Our empirical results indicate significant and persistent differences between the theoretical implied price and the actual reset price for both swaps over the sample period. This finding has implications for traders and banks in pricing swaps in Malaysia and more generally for pricing swaps in less established or illiquid markets or where capital controls have been introduced.
CONCRETE-FILLED TUBULAR COLUMNS: PART 2 — COLUMN ANALYSIS
Authors: GAYATHRI V. , SHANMUGAM N. E. , CHOO Y. S.
Published: November 2004

This paper is concerned with an analytical model for column analysis of concrete-filled tubular beam-columns subjected to the combined action of axial load and monotonic or cyclic bending. A method of segmentation is adopted in the analysis of beam-columns. The flexural and axial rigidities of the beam-column segments are derived from M–P–φ and M–P–ε relations obtained through fibre-analysis explained in Part 11 of the paper. Geometric and material nonlinearities are taken into account and incremental equilibrium equations are formulated based on an updated Lagrangian formulation. An incremental-iterative Newton–Raphson iteration technique is adopted to obtain the solution of the equations. The limitation of Newton–Raphson technique in approaching the limit points is overcome by using a generalized stiffness parameter, thereby tracing the post-buckling response. The accuracy of the model is verified by comparing the results with the experimental values available in published literature.
GENERATION OF SYNTHETIC ACCELEROGRAMS USING ENGINEERING EARTHQUAKE SOURCE MODEL
Authors: KR. AGRAWAL SHAILESH
Published: November 2004

The strong motion records available during an earthquake can be treated as the response of the earth as a structural system to unknown forces acting at unknown locations. Thus, if the part of the earth participating in ground motion is modeled as a known finite elastic medium, one can model the source location and forces generated during the earthquake as an inverse problem. Based on this analogy, a simple model for the earthquake source is proposed, by assuming the source to be a sequence of impulses acting at locations yet to be found. These impulses and their locations are found using the normal mode expansion along with a minimization of mean squared error. The medium is assumed to be finite, elastic, homogeneous, layered and horizontal with specified boundary conditions. Detailed results are obtained for the Uttarkashi earthquake of 20th October 1991, in India. The impulse locations are shown to be closely associated with the underlying fault mechanism. The proposed model is then used to simulate the acceleration time histories at a few recording stations. The earthquake source expressed in terms of a sequence of impulses acting at different locations is applied to a 2D finite elastic medium. The acceleration time histories found from this model agree well with with the accelerations recorded for the earthquake.
VIBRATION AND STABILITY OF PLATES USING HYBRID-TREFFTZ ELEMENTS
Authors: PETROLITO J.
Published: November 2004

This paper discusses the use of hybrid-Trefftz elements for the vibration and stability analysis of thick and thin plates. The approach can be used for elements of arbitrary geometry. However, the paper concentrates on the use of simple and robust triangular elements. Analytical expressions for the required matrices are readily derived for such elements, thereby improving their computational efficiency. Results for various problems are included to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the elements.
Knowledge Consumption
Authors: Choi Chong Ju , Tay Joseph
Published: November 2004

Recent research in organizations and firms has called for a broadening of knowledge research, including issues such as the sociology of knowledge consumption. This paper introduces preliminary frameworks for integrating knowledge production and knowledge management with the "consumption" aspects of knowledge. The social anthropological research on inalienable exchange is shown to complement potential research on knowledge consumption.
Knowledge Combustion: A Knowledge Chemistry Approach and a Description of the Process of Information Dissipation
Authors: Randles Theodore J. , Fadlalla Adam
Published: November 2004

Weaving concepts from the decision making, information systems, telemedicine, cognitive psychology, and epistemology literatures, we propose a knowledge combustion analogy to explain the relation between information, knowledge, and action. By linking these concepts to engine mechanics, which are well-understood physical systems, the knowledge combustion analogy provides a framework that might extend knowledge management theory. The analogy suggests that different knowledge types are used to extract value from information, which results in insight. This insight culminates in action, and this action produces new insights, to generate systematic action. Hence, the analogy provides a description of the process of information dissipation, which is not well understood.

The paper presents specifications for four blends of knowledge, which rely on three types of pragmatic knowledge. Each knowledge blend is designed to fuel a different form of knowledge combustion, and each form of knowledge combustion permits the attainment of a different form of insight. Finally, each knowledge blend requires the application of a different cognitive force to permit its combustion, and we propose that these fuel and force specifications must be satisfied for the effective dissipation of information. In developing these fuel and force specifications, we introduce a new approach to knowledge management thinking, which we call knowledge chemistry, and provide a conceptual framework that highlights two characteristics of knowledge, its substance and its force. We believe that organizations can increase their knowledge capital by determining ways to take advantage of the different characteristics and functions of knowledge described in this paper.
OPTIMAL TESTING IN A FIXED-EFFECTS FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE MODEL
Authors: ABRAMOVICH FELIX , ANTONIADIS ANESTIS , SAPATINAS THEOFANIS , VIDAKOVIC BRANI
Published: December 2004

We consider the testing problem in a fixed-effects functional analysis of variance model. We test the null hypotheses that the functional main effects and the functional interactions are zeros against the composite nonparametric alternative hypotheses that they are separated away from zero in L2-norm and also possess some smoothness properties. We adapt the optimal (minimax) hypothesis testing procedures for testing a zero signal in a Gaussian "signal plus noise" model to derive optimal (minimax) non-adaptive and adaptive hypothesis testing procedures for the functional main effects and the functional interactions. The corresponding tests are based on the empirical wavelet coefficients of the data. Wavelet decompositions allow one to characterize different types of smoothness conditions assumed on the response function by means of its wavelet coefficients for a wide range of function classes. In order to shed some light on the theoretical results obtained, we carry out a simulation study to examine the finite sample performance of the proposed functional hypothesis testing procedures. As an illustration, we also apply these tests to a real-life data example arising from physiology. Concluding remarks and hints for possible extensions of the proposed methodology are also given.
ON THE INTERMEDIATE STATES OF THE LIGHT FIELD
Authors: VALVERDE C. , BASEIA B.
Published: December 2004

This paper is a short survey on intermediate states (IS) of the light field studied in the last fifteen years in the literature; they coincide with two basic states in two different limits of the involved parameters. We consider their main characteristics, distinguishing them in two classes: the class of interpolating states, and a special class of superposition states. A new IS is proposed to compare properties of distinct states mapping between the same extremes.
TRACING NOBLE GAS RADIONUCLIDES IN THE ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Collon Philippe , Kutschera Walter , Lu Zheng-Tian
Published: November 2004

▪ Abstract  Trace analysis of radionuclides is an essential and versatile tool in modern science and technology. Because of their ideal geophysical and geochemical properties, long-lived noble gas radionuclides—particularly39Ar (t1/2= 269 y),81Kr (t1/2= 2.3 × 105y), and85Kr (t1/2= 10.8 y)—have long been recognized to have a wide range of important applications in Earth sciences. In recent years, significant progress in the development of practical analytical methods has led to applications of these isotopes in the hydrosphere (tracing the flow of groundwater and ocean water). In this article, we introduce the applications of these isotopes and review three leading analytical methods: low-level counting (LLC), accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and atom trap trace analysis (ATTA).
THE STRENGTH OF THE WEAK INTERACTIONS
Authors: Wolfenstein Lincoln
Published: November 2004

▪ Abstract  A career devoted to the study of weak interactions and fundamental symmetries is summarized. Subjects include the induced pseudoscalar coupling in muon capture, the hypothesis of a superweak interaction, the oscillation of neutrinos in matter, and a parameterization of the CKM matrix of particular importance for B physics. Also discussed are the origin of the Aspen Center for Physics and activities related to the dangers of nuclear weapons.
On the asymptotic behavior of the second moment of the Fouriertransform of a random measure
Authors: Esquível Manuel L.
Published: November 2004

The behavior at infinity of the Fourier transform of the random
measures that appear in the theory of multiplicative chaos of
Mandelbrot, Peyrière, and Kahane is an area quite unexplored.
For context and further reference, we first present an overview
of this theory and then the result, which is the main objective of
this work, generalizing a result previously announced by Kahane. We establish an estimate for the asymptotic behavior of
the second moment of the Fourier transform of the limit random
measure in the theory of multiplicative chaos. After looking at the behavior at infinity of the Fourier
transform of some remarkable functions and measures, we prove a
formula essentially due to Frostman, involving the Riesz kernels.
On polynomials with simple trigonometric formulas
Authors: Gregorac R. J.
Published: November 2004

We show that the sequences of polynomials with zeros
cot(mπ/(n + 2))
and tan(mπ/(n + 2))
are not
orthogonal sequences with respect to any integral inner product. We give an algebraic formula for these polynomials, that is
simpler than the formula originally derived by
Cvijovic and Klinowski (1998). New sequences of
polynomials with algebraic numbers as roots and closed
trigonometric formulas are also derived by these methods.
Zeros of an algebraic polynomial with nonequal means randomcoefficients
Authors: Farahmand K. , Flood P.
Published: November 2004

This paper provides an asymptotic estimate for the expected number
of real zeros of a random algebraic polynomial a0 + a1x + a2x2 + ⋯+an − 1xn−1. The coefficients aj(j = 0, 1, 2, …, n − 1)
are assumed to be independent normal random
variables with nonidentical means. Previous results are mainly for
identically distributed coefficients. Our result remains valid
when the means of the coefficients are divided into many groups of
equal sizes. We show that the behaviour of the random polynomial
is dictated by the mean of the first group of the coefficients in
the interval (−1, 1)
and the mean of the last group in (−∞, −1)∪(1, ∞).
Some results on a generalized ω‐Jacobi transform
Authors: Ben Nakhi Y. , Kalla S. L.
Published: November 2004

We introduce a generalized ω‐Jacobi transform and obtain
images of certain functions under this transform. Moreover, we
define a new probability density function (pdf) involving this new
generalized ω‐Jacobi function. Some basic functions
associated with the pdf, such as characteristic function, moments
and distribution function, are evaluated.
Additive Beneficial Effects of Losartan Combined With Simvastatin in the Treatment of Hypercholesterolemic, Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Koh Kwang Kon , Quon Michael J. , Han Seung Hwan , Chung Wook-Jin , Ahn Jeong Yeal , Seo Yiel-Hea , Kang Moon Ho , Ahn Tae Hoon , Choi In Suck , Shin Eak Kyun
Published: November 2004

Background—

Biological mechanisms underlying statin and angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker therapies differ. Therefore, we compared vascular and metabolic responses to these therapies either alone or in combination in hypercholesterolemic, hypertensive patients.

Methods and Results—

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial with 3 treatment arms (each 2 months) and 2 washout periods (each 2 months). Forty-seven hypertensive, hypercholesterolemic patients were given simvastatin 20 mg and placebo, simvastatin 20 mg and losartan 100 mg, or losartan 100 mg and placebo daily during each 2-month treatment period. Losartan alone or combined therapy significantly reduced blood pressure compared with simvastatin alone. Compared with losartan alone, simvastatin alone or combined therapy significantly changed lipoproteins. All 3 treatment arms significantly improved flow-mediated dilator response to hyperemia and decreased plasma malondialdehyde and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 levels relative to baseline measurements. However, these parameters were changed to a greater extent with combined therapy compared with simvastatin or losartan alone (both
P
<0.001 and
P
=0.030 for monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 by ANOVA). Combined therapy or losartan alone significantly increased plasma adiponectin levels and insulin sensitivity (determined by QUICKI) relative to baseline measurements. These changes were significantly greater than in the group treated with simvastatin alone (
P
<0.001 for adiponectin,
P
=0.029 for QUICKI by ANOVA).

Conclusions—

Simvastatin combined with losartan improves endothelial function and reduces inflammatory markers to a greater extent than monotherapy with either drug in hypercholesterolemic, hypertensive patients.
Overexpression of Wild-Type Heat Shock Protein 27 and a Nonphosphorylatable Heat Shock Protein 27 Mutant Protects Against Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in a Transgenic Mouse Model
Authors: Hollander John M. , Martin Jody L. , Belke Darrell D. , Scott Brian T. , Swanson Eric , Krishnamoorthy Vignesh , Dillmann Wolfgang H.
Published: November 2004

Background—

The small heat shock protein 27 (hsp27) increases in expression with ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) insult in the heart. One feature of the small hsps is their ability to oligomerize and form intracellular aggregates. Oligomerization pattern is governed by the phosphorylation state of the protein that may influence their ability to protect against cellular stresses.

Methods and Results—

We generated transgenic (tg) mice that overexpress a wild-type human hsp27 (hsp27tg) protein or a mutant hsp27 protein (mut-hsp27tg), in which serine residues (aa15, aa78, and aa82) were replaced by alanine residues, rendering them incapable of phosphorylation. Using a Langendorff perfusion model and an intraventricular balloon, we subjected hearts to 20 minutes of ischemia followed by 1 hour of reperfusion. During reperfusion, negative and positive pressure derivatives as well as developed pressures were significantly higher in both hsp27tg and mut-hsp27tg compared with control (
P
<0.01) mice, with no significant difference between hsp27tg and mut-hsp27tg. Creatine kinase release during reperfusion was higher in control compared with both hsp27tg and mut-hsp27tg (
P
<0.05). Malondialdehyde content as well as protein oxidation products were lower in mut-hsp27tg compared with control (
P
<0.05). hsp27tg hearts possessed oligomers that ranged in size from small to large, whereas mut-hsp27tg hearts contained no small oligomers.

Conclusions—

These results indicate that in a tg mouse model, overexpression of either wild-type hsp27 or a nonphosphorylatable hsp27 mutant was equally capable of protecting the heart from I/R injury. Furthermore, the phosphorylation status of hsp27 may influence its ability to decrease oxidative stress.
Computed Tomographic Analysis of the Anatomy of the Left Atrium and the Esophagus
Authors: Lemola Kristina , Sneider Michael , Desjardins Benoit , Case Ian , Han Jihn , Good Eric , Tamirisa Kamala , Tsemo Ariane , Chugh Aman , Bogun Frank , Pelosi Frank , Kazerooni Ella , Morady Fred , Oral Hakan
Published: November 2004

Background—

During left atrial (LA) catheter ablation, an atrioesophageal fistula can develop as a result of thermal injury of the esophagus during ablation along the posterior LA. No in vivo studies have examined the relationship of the esophagus to the LA. The purpose of this study was to describe the topographic anatomy of the esophagus and the posterior LA by use of CT.

Methods and Results—

A helical CT scan of the chest with 3D reconstruction was performed in 50 patients (mean age, 54±11 years) with atrial fibrillation before an ablation procedure. Consecutive axial and sagittal sections of the CT scan were examined to determine the relationship, size, and thickness of the tissue layers between the LA and the esophagus. The mean length and width of the esophagus in contact with the posterior LA were 58±14 and 13±6 mm, respectively. The esophagus had a variable course along the posterior LA. The esophagus was close (10±6 mm from the ostia) and parallel to the left-sided pulmonary veins (PVs) in 56% of patients and had an oblique course from the left superior PV to the right inferior PV in 36% of patients. The mean thicknesses of the posterior LA and anterior esophageal walls were 2.2±0.9 and 3.6±1.7 mm, respectively. In 98% of patients, there was a fat layer between the esophagus and the posterior LA. However, this layer was often discontinuous.

Conclusions—

The esophagus and posterior LA wall are in close contact over a large area that may often lie within the atrial fibrillation ablation zone, and there is marked variation in the anatomic relationship of the esophagus and the posterior LA. Both the esophageal and atrial walls are quite thin. However, a layer of adipose tissue may serve to insulate the esophagus from thermal injury, explaining why atrioesophageal fistulas are rare.
Impaired
l
-Arginine Transport and Endothelial Function in Hypertensive and Genetically Predisposed Normotensive Subjects
Authors: Schlaich Markus P. , Parnell Melinda M. , Ahlers Belinda A. , Finch Samara , Marshall Tanneale , Zhang Wei-Zheng , Kaye David M.
Published: November 2004

Background—

Impaired endothelium-dependent NO-mediated vasodilation is a key feature of essential hypertension and may precede the increase in blood pressure. We investigated whether transport of the NO precursor
l
-arginine is related to decreased endothelial function.

Methods and Results—

Radiotracer kinetics ([
3
H]
l
-arginine) were used to measure forearm and peripheral blood mononuclear cell arginine uptake in hypertensive subjects (n=12) and in 2 groups of healthy volunteers with (n=15) and without (n=15) a family history of hypertension. In conjunction, forearm blood flow responses to acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside were measured before and after a supplemental intra-arterial infusion of
l
-arginine. In vivo and in vitro measures of
l
-arginine transport were substantially reduced in the essential hypertension and positive family history groups compared with the negative family history group; however, no difference was detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cell mRNA or protein expression levels for the cationic amino acid transporter CAT-1. Plasma concentrations of
l
-arginine and
N
G
,
N
G′
-dimethylarginine (ADMA) did not differ between groups.
l
-Arginine supplementation improved the response to acetylcholine only in subjects with essential hypertension and positive family history.

Conclusions—

Similar to their hypertensive counterparts, normotensive individuals at high risk for the development of hypertension are characterized by impaired
l
-arginine transport, which may represent the link between a defective
l
-arginine/NO pathway and the onset of essential hypertension. The observed transport defect is not due to apparent alterations in CAT-1 expression or elevated endogenous ADMA.
S
-Nitrosoalbumin–Mediated Relaxation Is Enhanced by Ascorbate and Copper
Authors: Gandley Robin E. , Tyurin Vladimir A. , Huang Wan , Arroyo Antonio , Daftary Ashi , Harger Gail , Jiang Jianfei , Pitt Bruce , Taylor Robert N. , Hubel Carl A. , Kagan Valerian E.
Published: November 2004

S
-nitrosoalbumin (SNO-Alb) is a major reservoir of releasable nitric oxide (NO) in plasma. In preeclampsia, a pregnancy-specific disorder associated with endothelial dysfunction, we previously found significant elevations in plasma SNO-Alb concentrations and decreased plasma ascorbate (Asc) levels. This increased SNO-Alb may result from low-plasma Asc if Asc, along with transition metals (eg, copper [Cu]) are necessary for release of NO from
S
-nitrosothiols. We propose that vasodilator effects of SNO-Alb, mediated by release of NO, are fully realized only when Asc/Cu availability is sufficient. Relaxation responses to SNO-Alb or the control reduced human serum albumin (SH-Alb), and responses to pooled plasma from normal or preeclamptic pregnancies were examined in isolated mouse arteries. Arteries preconstricted with phenylephrine were exposed to SNO-Alb or SH-Alb at physiologically relevant concentrations. When free Cu was added in excess (10 μmol/L), NO release was not dependent on Asc. However, when Cu was added at lower (physiological) levels, NO release was dependent on Asc. The addition of Asc and Cu to SNO-Alb stimulated vasodilatory responses in isolated arteries >90%, whereas no change in the SH-Alb (5%) response was observed. Preeclampsia plasma with higher levels of SNO-Alb caused arteries to relax 44.1±4.7%, whereas normal pregnancy plasma caused 11.9±4.2% relaxation (
P
=0.007). These data indicate that SNO-Alb alone or in plasma can act as a potent vasodilator, and that sufficient Asc/Cu promotes this action. We suggest that the higher circulating levels of SNO-Alb, in women with preeclampsia, reflect a deficiency in Asc/Cu-mediated release of NO from SNO-Alb.
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide Induces Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Phosphatase-1 in Human Endothelial Cells via Rac1 and NAD(P)H Oxidase/Nox2-Activation
Authors: Fürst Robert , Brueckl Corinna , Kuebler Wolfgang M. , Zahler Stefan , Krötz Florian , Görlach Agnes , Vollmar Angelika M. , Kiemer Alexandra K.
Published: November 2004

The cardiovascular hormone atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) exerts anti-inflammatory effects on tumor necrosis factor-α–activated endothelial cells by inducing mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphatase-1 (MKP-1). The underlying mechanisms are as yet unknown. We aimed to elucidate the signaling pathways leading to an induction of MKP-1 by ANP in primary human endothelial cells. By using antioxidants, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was shown to be crucially involved in MKP-1 upregulation. ANP was found to increase ROS formation in cultured cells as well as in the endothelium of intact rat lung vessels. We applied NAD(P)H oxidase (Nox) inhibitors (apocynin and gp91ds-tat) and revealed this enzyme complex to be crucial for superoxide generation and MKP-1 expression. Moreover, by performing Nox2/4 antisense experiments, we identified Nox2 as the critically involved Nox homologue. Pull-down assays and confocal microscopy showed that ANP activates the small Rho-GTPase Rac1. Transfection of a dominant-negative (RacN17) and constitutively active Rac1 mutant (RacV12) indicated that ANP-induced superoxide generation and MKP-1 expression are mediated via Rac1 activation. ANP-evoked production of superoxide was found to activate c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Using specific inhibitors, we linked ANP-induced JNK activation to MKP-1 expression and excluded an involvement of protein kinase C, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, and p38 MAPK. MKP-1 induction was shown to depend on activation of the transcription factor activator protein-1 (AP-1) by using electrophoretic mobility shift assay and AP-1 decoys. In summary, our work provides insights into the mechanisms by which ANP induces MKP-1 and shows that ANP is a novel endogenous activator of endothelial Rac1 and Nox/Nox2.
Noninvasive Detection of Steno-Occlusive Disease of the Supra-Aortic Arteries With Three-Dimensional Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Authors: Willinek Winfried A. , von Falkenhausen Marcus , Born Markus , Gieseke Jürgen , Höller Tobias , Klockgether Thomas , Textor Hans J. , Schild Hans H. , Urbach Horst
Published: November 2004

Background and Purpose—

Concomitant disease of the supra-aortic arteries can influence the outcome of surgical treatment of carotid artery stenosis. However, sensitivity and specificity data of noninvasive contrast-enhanced 3-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance angiography (CE MRA) for the detection of steno-occlusive disease of the entire supra-aortic arteries including the circle of Willis remain unclear. We aimed to intra-individually compare high-spatial-resolution CE 3D MRA and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for the assessment of steno-occlusive vascular disease of the supra-aortic arteries.

Methods—

CE MRA and DSA of the supra-aortic arteries were prospectively performed in 50 consecutive patients. Intra-individual comparison of CE MRA and DSA was available in 833 arteries. High-spatial-resolution CE MRA comprised a measured voxel size of 0.81 mm × 0.81 mm × 1 mm (0.66 mm
3
). Steno-occlusive vascular disease of the 833 arteries was assessed independently by 2 radiologists according to the NASCET criteria.

Results—

CE MRA had a sensitivity of 100% (73/73), a specificity of 99.3% (760/765), a positive predictive value of 93.6% (73/78), and a negative predictive value of 100% (760/760) by using a 70% to 99% threshold of arterial diameter stenosis. For detection of occlusion, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV value of CE MRA were 100%, respectively.

Conclusions—

Noninvasive high-spatial-resolution CE MRA is suited to replace diagnostic DSA for the detection of steno-occlusive disease of the supra-aortic arteries.
Dipyridamole for Preventing Recurrent Ischemic Stroke and Other Vascular Events
Authors: Leonardi-Bee Jo , Bath Philip M.W. , Bousser Marie-Germaine , Davalos Antoni , Diener Hans-Christoph , Guiraud-Chaumeil Bernard , Sivenius Juhani , Yatsu Frank , Dewey Michael E.
Published: November 2004

Background and Purpose—

Results from randomized controlled trials of dipyridamole, given with or without aspirin, for secondary prevention after ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) have given conflicting results. We performed a meta-analysis using individual patient data from relevant randomized controlled trials.

Methods—

Randomized controlled trials involving dipyridamole in patients with previous ischemic stroke or TIA were sought from searches of the Cochrane Library, other electronic databases, references lists, earlier reviews, and contact with the manufacturer of dipyridamole. Individual patient data were merged from 5 of 7 relevant trials involving 11 459 patients. Results were adjusted for age, gender, qualifying event, and history of previous hypertension.

Results—

Recurrent stroke was reduced by dipyridamole as compared with control (OR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.68 to 1.00), and by combined aspirin and dipyridamole versus aspirin alone (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.93), dipyridamole alone (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.60 to 0.90), or control (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.51 to 0.71). The point estimates obtained for the comparisons of aspirin and dipyridamole versus control (OR, 0.63; significant) or versus aspirin (OR, 0.88; nonsignificant) were similar if the data from the largest trial, ESPS II (which provided 57% of data), were excluded. Similar findings were observed for nonfatal stroke. The combination of aspirin and dipyridamole also significantly reduced the composite outcome of nonfatal stroke, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and vascular death as compared with aspirin alone (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.72 to 0.97), dipyridamole alone (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.64 to 0.90), or control (OR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.57 to 0.75). Vascular death was not altered in any group.

Conclusions—

Dipyridamole, given alone or with aspirin, reduces stroke recurrence in patients with previous ischemic cerebrovascular disease. The combination of aspirin and dipyridamole also reduces the composite of nonfatal stroke, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and vascular death as compared with aspirin alone.
Functional Electrical Stimulation Improves Motor Recovery of the Lower Extremity and Walking Ability of Subjects With First Acute Stroke
Authors: Yan Tiebin , Hui-Chan Christina W. Y. , Li Leonard S. W.
Published: November 2004

Background and Purpose—

The effectiveness of functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been investigated in chronic hemiplegia. The present study examines whether FES, given during acute stroke, was more effective in promoting motor recovery of the lower extremity and walking ability than standard rehabilitation alone.

Methods—

Forty-six subjects, 70.9±8.0 years old and 9.2±4.1 days after stroke, were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 groups receiving standard rehabilitation with FES or placebo stimulation or alone (control). FES was applied 30 minutes and placebo stimulation 60 minutes, 5 days per week for 3 weeks. Outcome measurements included composite spasticity score, maximum isometric voluntary contraction of ankle dorsi-flexors and planter-flexors, and walking ability. They were recorded before treatment, weekly during the 3-week treatment, and at week 8 after stroke.

Results—

No significant differences were found in the baseline measurements. After 3 weeks of treatment, there was a significant reduction in the percentage of composite spasticity score, and a significant improvement in the ankle dorsiflexion torque, accompanied by an increase in agonist electromyogram and a reduction in electromyogram cocontraction ratio in the FES group, when compared with the other 2 groups (
P
<0.05). All subjects in the FES group were able to walk after treatment, and 84.6% of them returned home, in comparison with the placebo (53.3%) and control (46.2%,
P
<0.05) groups.

Conclusions—

Fifteen sessions of FES, applied to subjects with acute stroke plus standard rehabilitation, improved their motor and walking ability to the degree that more subjects were able to return to home.