bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
QTL Mapping Under Ascertainment
Authors: Peng J. , Siegmund D.
Published: May 2006

Mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) using ascertained sibships is discussed. It is shown that under the standard normality assumption of variance components analysis the efficient scores are unchanged by ascertainment, and two different schemes of ascertainment correction suggested in the literature are asymptotically equivalent. The use of conditional maximum likelihood estimators derived under the normality assumption to estimate nuisance parameters is shown to result in only a small loss of power compared to the case of known parameters, even when the distribution of phenotypes is non‐normal and/or the ascertainment criterion is ill defined.
Forms and functions of school refusal behavior in youth: an empirical analysis of absenteeism severity
Authors: Kearney Christopher A.
Published: May 2006

Background:  School refusal behavior is a particularly nettlesome problem for mental health and education professionals because of its symptom severity and heterogeneity as well as lack of consensus regarding inclusive classification strategies. Alternatively, a functional model of school refusal behavior may provide a particularly useful way of organizing, assessing, and treating this population.

Method:  The present study included 222 youths aged 5–17 years (134 males, 88 females) with school refusal behavior and their parents. Participants were assessed at a specialized university‐based clinic for youths with school refusal behavior. Child self‐report and parent‐based measures of forms of behavior related to school refusal as well as functions of school refusal behavior were employed.

Results:  Hierarchical regression analysis and structural equation modeling revealed that function was a better determinant of degree of school absenteeism than behavior form.

Conclusions:  Assessing the function of school refusal behavior is likely a key factor in the evaluation of this population and may be linked to informed decisions about choice of treatment.
Conservative Ideology and Ambivalent Sexism
Authors: Christopher Andrew N. , Mull Melinda S.
Published: May 2006

To assess the relationship between different facets of conservative ideology and ambivalent sexism, 246 residents of two towns in southern Michigan completed a social dominance orientation scale (SDO), a right-wing authoritarianism scale (RWA), a Protestant work ethic scale (PWE), and the Glick and Fiske (1996) Ambivalent Sexism Inventory via a mail survey. Zero-order correlations revealed that SDO, RWA, and PWE were each related to both components of ambivalent sexism (hostile and benevolent sexism). Hierarchical regressions revealed that SDO and PWE most strongly predicted hostile sexism, whereas RWA most strongly predicted benevolent sexism. Results are discussed with respect to different facets of conservative ideology and why SDO, RWA, and PWE each tend to be associated with prejudice toward different groups.
SIPHUNCULAR STRUCTURE IN SOME FOSSIL COLEOIDS AND RECENT SPIRULA
Authors: MUTVEI HARRY , DONOVAN DESMOND T.
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  In Jurassic Phragmoteuthis huxleyi Donovan (Order Phragmoteuthida) the siphuncular wall shows unique structural and morphological features. The septal neck is short, about one‐eighth of chamber length, but the connecting ring is extremely long, extending through 5–6 chambers. The permeable siphuncular wall in each chamber is, therefore, unusually thick and consists of 5–6 consecutive connecting rings. Each connecting ring is calcified and has a highly porous structure in being composed of bundles of spicular crystallites, orientated more or less at right angles to the siphuncular wall, and separated by smaller or larger interspaces. A restudy of the belemnoid Megateuthis gigantea (Schlotheim) and the aulacoceratid Mojsisovicsteuthis? shows that the connecting rings in these taxa are also calcified. Each ring has a length of two chambers and consists of several calcified lamellae that are traversed by minute pores. The permeable siphuncular wall in each chamber therefore consists of two consecutive connecting rings separated by a porous prismatic layer. In Recent Spirula the connecting ring is composed of two layers: an outer spherulitic‐prismatic layer and an inner glycoprotein layer, of which the latter is not preserved in dry shells. The connecting ring structure is here similar to that in Recent Nautilus. Our study shows that at least three different structural types of siphuncular wall occur in coleoids. The phragmoteuthid connecting ring has a primitive structure, unknown in other cephalopods. This indicates that this taxon has no closer relationship with other coleoid taxa. The belemnitid‐aulacoceratid connecting ring is calcified and traversed by numerous pore canals. It shows a certain structural similarity to that in fossil actinoceratid and orthoceratid nautiloids. The spirulid connecting ring is structurally similar to that in Recent Nautilus and fossil nautilitid and tarphyceratid nautiloids. Thus the connecting ring structure indicates that coleoids include several, phylogenetically clearly separated lineages.
LATE EARLY SINEMURIAN (EARLY JURASSIC) AMMONITES FROM THE TASEKO LAKES MAP AREA, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Authors: MACCHIONI FRANCESCO , SMITH PAUL L. , TIPPER HOWARD W.
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  Abundant and well‐preserved Early Jurassic ammonite assemblages occur in the Taseko Lakes map area on the Cadwallader Terrane in the southern Coast Mountains of British Columbia. The ammonite assemblage described herein includes nine genera and 14 species, most of them already known from classical localities of northern and southern Europe. The presence in particular of Caenisites brooki (Sowerby) and C. turneri (Sowerby) permits high‐resolution correlation with the Turneri Zone of the north‐west European Sinemurian zonation. The specimens were collected at four localities but most come from an olistolith where the ammonite assemblage is dominated by Coroniceras (Paracoroniceras) mutabile Macchioni, Smith and Tipper, associated with Lytotropites fucinii (Bonarelli) and Hypasteroceras montii (De Stefani). The latter two species, whose exact age is here established for the first time, have a Mediterranean distribution.
Compliance with a risk factor‐based intrapartum prophylaxis program for neonatal group B streptococcal disease
Authors: MCILWAINE Kate , KNEEBONE Kim , BARKEHALL‐THOMAS Andrea , WALLACE Euan M.
Published: May 2006

Aim:  The US Centre for Disease Control (CDC) recently amended their guidelines for the prevention of early‐onset group B streptococcal disease (EOGBSD) of the newborn to recommend bacteriological screening, rather than risk factor‐based screening, as the preferred method of identifying ‘at risk’ mother–infant pairs. This recommendation was derived from population data suggesting that the effectiveness of bacteriological screening was superior to a risk‐factor approach because antibiotic compliance was better with the former. Whether poor compliance and therefore impaired prevention is inherent in risk‐factor screening has not been widely tested.

Methods:  For a 6‐month period we audited compliance with an established risk‐factor EOGBSD prophylaxis program.

Results:  During the audit period, 1243 women delivered, of whom 287 (23%) had at least one risk factor. Of these women, 193 (67%), representing 15% of all women giving birth, received antibiotics. Thus, there were 94 women who were eligible for antibiotics but did not receive prophylaxis. There were sound clinical reasons for withholding antibiotics in 68 of these. Therefore, the corrected compliance rate within our program was 73%.

Conclusion:  This compares favourably with published compliance rates with bacteriological‐based programs, but we have suggested mechanisms to improve compliance further.
Improved management in threatened preterm labour with rapid fetal fibronectin testing
Authors: PARRY Emma , SINGH Thakur Geeta , DOW David , NOOVAO Fiona
Published: May 2006

Recently, a new rapid system for fetal fibronectin (fFN) analysis (TLIIQ) has been developed with accuracy equal to the gold standard, ELISA (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay) testing. The objective of this quality improvement project was to confirm that a reduction in intervention and a reduced length of stay did occur, as expected, after the testing of fFN was introduced at a tertiary referral hospital (National Women's Hospital) for women in threatened preterm labour.

There was a reduction in investigation and treatment of women after fFN was introduced. The average length of stay reduced from 3.8 to 2.9 days after testing was introduced. For the women who were fFN negative, the average length of stay was 1.7 days.
First trimester medical termination of pregnancy: An alternative for New Zealand women
Authors: GOODYEAR‐SMITH Felicity , KNOWLES Alison , MASTERS Jonathan
Published: May 2006

Background:  First trimester medical terminations of pregnancy (TOP) have been carried out in a private abortion clinic in Auckland from 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2005.

Aims:  To audit first trimester medical TOP outcomes over the first 2 years and to compare the demographics and complication rates of women opting for medical TOP with those choosing surgical TOP during this period.

Methods:  Retrospective, consecutive case audit of women presenting for a first trimester TOP. Anonymous audit included ethnicity, gestation at first appointment, pain relief requirements, blood loss, timing from the taking of misoprostol to expulsion of products of conception, complications and comparison of outcomes and characteristics between medical termination of pregnancy (MTOP) and surgical termination of pregnancy (STOP).

Results:  A total of 3311 TOPs were performed over the 2‐year study period, including 390 MTOPs (12%). No significant differences were found in age, ethnicity or history of previous TOP between women choosing MTOP or STOP. Gravida 1 and nulliparous women were significantly more likely to choose MTOP. Five per cent (21/390) of women taking mifepristone progressed to STOP. Complications involving hospitalisation occurred in six MTOPs (1.5%) and 18 STOPs (0.6%).

Conclusions:  First trimester MTOP is safe and effective and is a realistic alternative for women wanting choice of method in New Zealand.
Corporate Investment and Asset Price Dynamics: Implications for SEO Event Studies and Long‐Run Performance
Authors: CARLSON MURRAY , FISHER ADLAI , GIAMMARINO RON
Published: May 2006

We present a rational theory of SEOs that explains a pre‐issuance price run‐up, a negative announcement effect, and long‐run post‐issuance underperformance. When SEOs finance investment in a real options framework, expected returns decrease endogenously because growth options are converted into assets in place. Regardless of their risk, the new assets are less risky than the options they replace. Although both size and book‐to‐market effects are present, standard matching procedures fail to fully capture the dynamics of risk and expected return. We calibrate the model and show that it closely matches the primary features of SEO return dynamics.
The Effect of Short Selling on Bubbles and Crashes in Experimental Spot Asset Markets
Authors: HARUVY ERNAN , NOUSSAIR CHARLES N.
Published: May 2006

A series of experiments illustrate that relaxing short‐selling constraints lowers prices in experimental asset markets, but does not induce prices to track fundamentals. We argue that prices in experimental asset markets are influenced by restrictions on short‐selling capacity and limits on the cash available for purchases. Restrictions on short sales in the form of cash reserve requirements and quantity limits on short positions behave in a similar manner. A simulation model, based on DeLong et al. (1990), generates average price patterns that are similar to the observed data.
Corporate Equity Ownership and the Governance of Product Market Relationships
Authors: FEE C. EDWARD , HADLOCK CHARLES J. , THOMAS SHAWN
Published: May 2006

We assemble a sample of over 10,000 customer–supplier relationships and determine whether the customer owns equity in the supplier. We find that factors related to both contractual incompleteness and financial market frictions are important in the decision of a customer firm to take an equity stake in their supplier. Evidence on the variation in the size of observed equity positions suggests that there are limits to the size of optimal ownership stakes in many relationships. Finally, we find that relationships accompanied by equity ownership last significantly longer than other relationships, suggesting that ownership aids in bonding trading parties together.
Does a Parent–Subsidiary Structure Enhance Financing Flexibility?
Authors: VIJH ANAND M.
Published: May 2006

I examine whether firms exploit a publicly traded parent–subsidiary structure to issue equity of the overvalued firm regardless of which firm needs funds, and whether this conveys opposite information about firm values. Using 90 subsidiary and 37 parent seasoned equity offering (SEO) announcements during 1981–2002, I document negative returns to issuers but insignificant returns to nonissuers in both samples, and insignificant changes in combined firm value and parent's nonsubsidiary equity value in subsidiary SEOs. Firms issue equity to meet their own financing needs. My evidence contrasts with previous studies and suggests that parent–subsidiary structures do not enhance financing flexibility.
“It’s Great When People Don’t Even Have Their Welfare Cases Opened”: TANF Diversion as Process and Lesson
Authors: Ridzi Frank , London Andrew S.
Published: May 2006

The 1996 Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) encouraged states to reduce welfare caseloads. Caseload reduction can be accomplished by promoting exit for work, marriage, or other private means of support and by diverting new applicants. Most research on caseload decline has focused on welfare‐to‐work outcomes; less is known about processes of diversion. This study employs administrative records and ethnographic data to examine diversion in West County, New York, from 1999 to 2003. Findings demonstrate a high level of diversion and suggest that application is an ongoing and at times remedial process rather than an event. Diversion occurs at all points of the expanded TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) intake process and is associated with one‐time lump sum payments as well as the hassle factor engendered by new eligibility requirements. The encumbered lives of applicants and TANF staff discretion are also implicated as factors contributing to diversion. We conclude with an analysis of the implications of TANF diversion for access to benefits.
Exploitation of host plant preferences in pest management strategies for oilseed rape (Brassica napus)
Authors: Cook S.M. , Smart L.E. , Martin J.L. , Murray D.A. , Watts N.P. , Williams I.H.
Published: May 2006

New control strategies for insect pests of arable agriculture are needed to reduce current dependence on synthetic insecticides, the use of which is unsustainable. We investigated the potential of a simple control strategy to protect spring‐sown oilseed rape, Brassica napus L. (Brassicaceae), from two major inflorescence pests: the pollen beetle, Meligethes aeneus (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae), and the seed weevil, Ceutorhynchus assimilis (Paykull) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), through exploitation of their host plant preferences. The strategy comprised, for the main crop, Starlight [an oilseed rape cultivar with relatively low proportions of alkenyl glucosinolates in the leaves (thereby releasing lower levels of attractive isothiocyanates than conventional cultivars)] and turnip rape, Brassica rapa (L.) (Brassicaceae), as a trap crop. We tested the system in laboratory, polytunnel semifield arena, and field experiments. The odours of Starlight were less attractive in olfactometer tests to both pests than those from a conventional cultivar, Canyon, and the plants were less heavily colonized in both polytunnel and field experiments. Turnip rape showed good potential as a trap crop for oilseed rape pests, particularly the pollen beetle as its odour was more attractive to both pests than that of oilseed rape. Polytunnel and field experiments showed the importance of relative growth stage in the system. As turnip rape flowers earlier than oilseed rape, beetles would be maintained on turnip rape past the damage‐susceptible growth stage of oilseed rape. The development of a pest control regime based on this strategy is discussed.
Is fruit size important in the selection of oviposition sites by cranberry fruitworm, Acrobasis vaccinii?
Authors: Marchand David , McNeil Jeremy N.
Published: May 2006

Under laboratory conditions, females of Acrobasis vaccinii (Riley) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) oviposit significantly more often on larger than on smaller cranberry fruit. This behaviour ensures that neonate larvae have access to maximum resources and are larger when moving to the next fruit. However, while there is some evidence that on a large spatial scale females may lay eggs in patches of larger fruit, there was no evidence of such an oviposition preference within patches in natural bogs. These results may be explained by the fact that the oviposition period for A. vaccinii begins early in the cranberry season, before fructification is completed, leading to potential competition among females for the first fruit present in the environment. Laying eggs on the first fruit available may be advantageous as this behaviour increases the probability that females select unexploited fruit. This strategy would be particularly effective for maximizing female fitness in grazer frugivorous species (such as the cranberry fruitworm) that live in environments where severe climatic conditions induce limited flowering/fruit formation and where hosts thus are rare.
The presence of an operculum verified by optical coherence tomography and other prognostic factors in macular hole surgery
Authors: Larsson Jörgen , Holm Kristina , Lövestam‐Adrian Monica
Published: May 2006

Purpose:  To evaluate the prognostic influence of the presence of an operculum in macular hole and to correlate the prognosis for postoperative visual acuity (VA) with the size of the macular hole, its duration and preoperative VA.

Methods:  We carried out a prospective study of 61 eyes of 59 patients with full thickness macular hole. All patients were examined with optical coherence tomography (OCT) in order to ascertain the presence of an operculum. The VA was measured with the ETDRS chart. A standard pars plana vitrectomy with inner limiting membrane peeling was performed in all cases and 20% C2F6 was used as tamponade.

Results:  Anatomical closure was obtained after one surgical procedure in 59/61 (97%) patients. Linear regression analysis showed only baseline VA to be predictive of visual outcome (p < 0.001). The presence of an operculum preoperatively did not correlate with VA either pre‐ or postoperatively, nor with the anatomical closure rate.

Conclusion:  The finding that postoperative VA in macular hole correlates with preoperative VA seems to allow for good prediction of postoperative VA in macular hole surgery. However, the presence of an operculum is of no prognostic significance.
Dentin resorption and cementum‐like tissue formation by bone morphogenetic protein application
Authors: Miyaji H. , Sugaya T. , Kato K. , Kawamura N. , Tsuji H. , Kawanami M.
Published: May 2006

Background and Objective:  Recent studies have shown that bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) stimulates mineralization and osteoclast differentiation. Osteoclastic resorption by BMP‐2 application may play an important role in the regulation of new cementum‐like tissue formation on the dentin surfaces. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of BMP‐2 application on dentin resorption and cementum‐like tissue formation at the dentin surfaces.

Material and Methods:  Seventy‐two flat dentin blocks were prepared from rat roots and treated with 24% EDTA. Each block was assigned to group 0, group 100, or group 400, and immersed correspondingly in 0, 100, or 400 µg/ml BMP‐2. The dentin blocks were then implanted into palatal connective tissue of rats, and specimens were prepared 2, 4 and 8 wk after surgery for histologic and histomorphometric analyses.

Results:  BMP‐2 caused a dose‐dependent increase in dentin resorption by osteoclastic cells. New cementum‐like tissue was randomly formed on parts of the nonresorbed and resorbed dentin surfaces in groups 100 and 400. Dentin resorption in groups 100 and 400 was significantly greater than group 0 (p < 0.01). However, at 8 wk, new cementum‐like tissue formed in 41.8% of group 100, as compared with 16.2% of group 400 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Dentin resorption was stimulated by a high dose of BMP‐2, and cementum‐like tissue was induced by a low dose of BMP‐2, effectively suggesting that BMP‐2 application, at an appropriate dose, to a dentin surface may enhance periodontal regeneration.
Reform, Reorganization, and the Renaissance of the Managerial Presidency: The Impact of 9/11 on the Executive Establishment
Authors: Conley Richard S.
Published: May 2006

In the wake of 9/11, realigning the human and financial resources of the executive branch to fight the war on terrorism quickly became the defining mission of George W. Bush’s transformed presidency. This article assesses the ways in which 9/11 impacted on the executive branch of the U.S. government, using a framework of “punctuated equilibrium” to posit that the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington added considerable force to trends already in motion. September 11 proved a catalyst for significant institutional changes, such as the enhanced role of the vice president in policy making and the reorganization of the federal government and intelligence apparatus. Organizational reforms, driven in a top‐down fashion by the White House, reflect President Bush’s confidence in the managerial presidency: the notion that preventing future terror threats is effectively a problem of executive control, bureaucratic coordination, and adequate funding.
The U.S. Way of War and the “War on Terror”
Authors: Lock‐Pullan Richard
Published: May 2006

Focusing on the two most significant deployments of U.S. military force in the ‘global war on terror,’ this article examines U.S. military strategy after September 11, 2001. The main thesis is that the post‐9/11 U.S. military strategy is a product of a revised ‘way of war’ that was developed by U.S. armed forces after Vietnam and the first Gulf War, rather than by significant aspects of the post‐9/11 environment. The article highlights the influence of the U.S. Army on American strategic culture and the subsequent reliance of the army on technology and conventional warfare—a strategy that eschews the broader social and political implications of warfare. Military outcomes in both Iraq and Afghanistan are seen as reflective of the shortcomings inherent within the model of military strategy that the U.S. Army, in particular, has developed over the last 30 years. The article explains the particular emphases in U.S. grand strategy and recurrent weaknesses in the U.S. response to 9/11.
Accountability in International Development Aid
Authors: Wenar Leif
Published: May 2006

Concerns over aid effectiveness have led to calls for greater accountability in international development aid. This article examines the state of accountability within and between international development agencies: aid NGOs, the international financial institutions, and government aid ministries. The investigation finds that there is very little accountability in these agencies, and that the accountability that there is often works against poverty relief. Increasing accountability, however, is not always the solution: increased accountability may just amplify the complexities of development efforts. Only those reforms with real promise to make aid more effective in reducing poverty should be encouraged. One such proposal is set out here.
Coexistence of occipital dysplasia and occipital hypoplasia/syringomyelia in the cavalier King Charles spaniel
Authors: Rusbridge C. , Knowler S. P.
Published: May 2006

Concurrent occurrence of occipital dysplasia and occipital hypoplasia in two dogs is described in this report. Occipital hypoplasia results in reduced volume of the caudal fossa, leading to overcrowding of the neural structures and, in severe cases, development of syringomyelia. In occipital dysplasia, there is a failure of complete ossification of the supraoccipital bone. When the two conditions occur concurrently, it is possible that syringomyelia may develop more slowly, resulting in presentation with clinical signs in middle to old age. This has implications for screening tests for early detection of syringomyelia, with a view to using the dog for breeding purposes, as dogs with an apparently mild phenotype for occipital hypoplasia/syringomyelia may actually have a more severe genotype.
A Study of 5-Nitroindole Alkylation
Authors: Kozmík Václav , Košata Bedřich , Svoboda Jiří , Kuchař Miroslav
Published: May 2006

A detailed study of the 5-nitroindole alkylation, the key step in the synthesis of Zafirlukast, is presented. A broad distribution of alkyl derivatives has been found. 2,3- And 1,3-dialkylindoles can be selectively obtained in a ZnBr2-catalyzed reaction. Structure of all the products was fully assigned.
Pinelliae Rhizoma Herbal-Acupuncture Solution Induced Apoptosis in Human Cervical Cancer Cells, SNU-17
Authors: Yoon Jong-Seok , Seo Jung-Chul , Han Sang-Won
Published: May 2006

Pinelliae Rhizoma has been used traditionally in Korea to promote the liver Qi activity and the function of the digestive system. We investigated whether the Pinelliae Rhizoma herbal-acupuncture solution (PRHS) would induce cell-death on SNU-17, human cervical cancer cells. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to investigate the cytotoxicity of PRHS. The cell death was identified as apoptosis with 4, 6-diamidineo-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining, and terminal deoxy-nucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. PRHS could induce apoptosis of SNU-17 via Bax-related caspase-3 activation. The expressions of both Bax, a pro-apoptotic gene, and caspase-3, an apoptotic gene, were increased. The results might provide the experimental data for the clinical use of Pinelliae Rhizoma on cervical cancer.
Effects of Electroacupuncture with Different Frequencies on the Glycoconjugate Alterations in Articular Cartilage in the Ankle Joints of Complete Freund's Adjuvant-injected Rats
Authors: Park In-Bum , Ahn Chang-Beohm , Choi Byung-Tae
Published: May 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on the glycoconjugate (GC) changes in articular cartilage in the ankle of an arthritic model. Arthritis was induced by an intraplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the hindpaw of male Sprague-Dawley rats. Bilateral EA stimulation at 2 Hz, 15 Hz and 120 Hz was applied at those acupoints corresponding to Zusanli and Sanyinjiao in man, using needles for 3-day intervals for 30 days. To determine the presence of arthritis, paw edema was measured by a water displacement plethysmometer. Edema of the hindpaw induced by CFA-injection was strongly inhibited by EA stimulation throughout the experimental period. At 30 days after CFA-injection, GC changes of articular cartilage of the ankle joint were observed using conventional and lectin histochemistry. The CFA-injected rat revealed general reduction of staining abilities and lectin affinities for GC in comparison with normal rats. Significant reductions of neutral and acidic GC were observed in interterritorial matrix and chondrocyte capsules, respectively. All lectin affinities examined except DBA were also decreased in CFA-injected rats compared to normal ones. However, EA-treated rats, showed similar staining patterns and lectin affinities for GC as to normal ones, especially neutral GC in interterritorial matrix and sWGA and RCA-1 affinities in chondrocytes. It is concluded that EA in all frequencies examined, especially 2 Hz, can attenuate inflammatory edema in CFA-injected rats through alleviation of alterations of GC components in articular cartilage.
Inhibition of Melanogenesis in Murine B16/F10 Melanoma Cells byLigusticum sinensis Oliv.
Authors: Wu Ching-Yuan , Pang Jong-Hwei S. , Huang Sheng-Teng
Published: May 2006

Ligusticum sinensis Oliv. (LSO) is an herbal drug commonly used as a topical treatment of epidermal hyperdepigmentation in Chinese medicine. However, the mechanism underlying the depigmentation by LSO is still unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of LSO on the process of melanogenesis and its possible underlying mechanism. Suppressed DOPA oxidase activity of mushroom tyrosinase was first noted when incubated with aqueous extracts of LSO, demonstrating the direct inhibitory effect of LSO on mushroom tyrosinase. Further experiments were carried out in murine B16/F10 melanoma cells and the effects of LSO extract on melanin formation, tyrosinase activity and tyrosinase gene expression were tested. Under conditions without affecting the viability of murine B16/F10 melanoma cells, LSO extract significantly reduced the cellular melanin content in a dose-dependent manner. The DOPA oxidase activity of tyrosinase in B16/F10 cells was dose-dependently inhibited by LSO treatment, possibly mediated by the suppressed tyrosinase mRNA expression in LSO-treated B16/F10 cells. In conclusion, the inhibitory effect of LSO on melanogenesis is likely associated with decreased DOPA oxidase activity of tyrosinase that is most likely the result of the down-regulation of tyrosinase mRNA expression.
MODULATION AND DEMODULATION IN DNA MOLECULE
Authors: ZDRAVKOVIĆ S. , SATARIĆ M. V. , VUKOVIĆ D.
Published: May 2006

In this paper, we consider the transformation of a breather type soliton in DNA into its demodulated version due to the strong impact of proteins associated with some sequences of DNA chain. These proteins are, for example, RNA polymerase responsible for the formation of m-RNA or initiation protein complex indispensable for chromosome replication.
DARBOUX TRANSFORMATION OF THE MODIFIED TODA LATTICE EQUATION
Authors: XU XI-XIANG , YANG HONG-XIANG , SUN YE-PENG
Published: May 2006

A modified Toda lattice equation associated with a properly discrete matrix spectral problem is introduced. Darboux transformation for the resulting lattice equation is constructed. As an application, the soliton solution for the Toda lattice equation is explicitly given.
LONG RANGE 1-d POTENTIAL AT BORDER OF THERMODYNAMIC LIMIT
Authors: SHANKER O.
Published: May 2006

In this work we consider new forms of the 1-d long range potential close to the thermodynamic limit. We also look at the potential close to the transition from long range order to short range order. We find an interesting duality between the two potentials, based on Dyson's sufficiency conditions for the existence of a phase transition. An important conclusion of our study is that the very long range nature of the potential causes Monte Carlo simulations to reach an apparent, but misleading, convergence. Thus, one needs to exercise great caution in deriving conclusions from such studies.
PRICING AND HEDGING CONVERTIBLE BONDS: DELAYED CALLS AND UNCERTAIN VOLATILITY
Authors: YIǦITBAŞIOǦLU ALI BORA , ALEXANDER CAROL
Published: May 2006

Arbitrage-free price bounds for convertible bonds are obtained assuming equity-linked hazard rates, stochastic interest rates and different assumptions about default and recovery behavior. Uncertainty in volatility is modeled using a stochastic volatility process for the common stock that lies within a band but makes few other assumptions about volatility dynamics. A non-linear multi-factor reduced-form equity-linked default model leads to a set of non-linear partial differential complementarity equations that are governed by the volatility path. Empirical results focus on call notice period effects. Increasingly pessimistic values for the issuer's substitution asset obtain as we introduce more uncertainty during the notice period. Uncertain in volatility, in particular, appears to be an important determinant of the call premium that is so often observed in issuer's call policies.
THE STOCHASTIC INTENSITY SSRD MODEL IMPLIED VOLATILITY PATTERNS FOR CREDIT DEFAULT SWAP OPTIONS AND THE IMPACT OF CORRELATION
Authors: BRIGO DAMIANO , COUSOT LAURENT
Published: May 2006

In this paper we investigate implied volatility patterns in the Shifted Square Root Diffusion (SSRD) model as functions of the model parameters. We begin by recalling the Credit Default Swap (CDS) options market model that is consistent with a market Black-like formula, thus introducing a notion of implied volatility for CDS options. We examine implied volatilities coming from SSRD prices and characterize the qualitative behavior of implied volatilities as functions of the SSRD model parameters. We introduce an analytical approximation for the SSRD implied volatility that follows the same patterns in the model parameters and that can be used to have a first rough estimate of the implied volatility following a calibration. We compute numerically the CDS-rate volatility smile for the adopted SSRD model. We find a decreasing pattern of SSRD implied volatilities in the interest-rate/intensity correlation. We check whether it is possible to assume zero correlation after the option maturity in computing the option price.
ON CAPITAL STRUCTURE, RISK SHARING AND CAPITAL ADEQUACY IN ISLAMIC BANKS
Authors: ARCHER SIMON , KARIM RIFAAT AHMED ABDEL
Published: May 2006

Islamic banks do not pay interest on customers' deposit accounts. Instead, customers' funds are placed in profit-sharing investment accounts (PSIA). Under this arrangement, the returns to the bank's customers are their pro-rata shares of the returns on the assets in which their funds are invested, and if these returns are negative so are the returns to the customers. The bank is entitled to a contractually agreed share of positive returns (profits) as remuneration for its work as asset manager; however, if the returns are zero or negative, the bank receives no remuneration but does not share in any loss.

In the case of Unrestricted PSIA, the investment account holders' funds are invested (i.e., commingled) in the bank's asset pool together with the bank's shareholders' own funds and the funds of current account holders. In that case, the bank's own funds that are invested in the asset pool are treated the same as those of Unrestricted PSIA holders for profit and loss sharing purposes; however, the shareholders also receive as part of their profit the remuneration earned by the bank as asset manager (less certain expenses not chargeable to the PSIA holders). This remuneration (management fees) represents an important source of revenue and profits for Islamic banks.

From a capital market perspective, this arrangement presents an apparent anomaly, as follows: shareholders and Unrestricted PSIA holders share the same asset risk on the commingled funds, but shareholders enjoy higher returns because of the management fees. On the other hand, competitive pressure may induce the bank to forgo some of its management fees in order to pay a competitive return to its PSIA holders. In this way, some of the PSIA holders' asset risk is absorbed by the shareholders. This phenomenon has been termed "displaced commercial risk" [2].

This paper analyzes this phenomenon. We argue that, in principle, displaced commercial risk is potentially an efficient and value-creating means of sharing risks between two classes of investor with different risk diversification capabilities and preferences: wealthy shareholders who are potentially well diversified, and less wealthy PSIA holders who are not. In practice, however, Islamic banks set up reserves with the intention of minimizing any need to forgo management fees.
Theorem on the union of two topologically flat cells of codimension 1 in ℝn
Authors: Chernavsky A. V.
Published: May 2006

In this paper we give a complete and improved proof of the “Theorem on the union of two (n − 1)‐cells.” First time it was proved by the author in the form of reduction to the earlier
author′s technique. Then the same reduction by the same method was
carried out by Kirby. The proof presented here gives a more clear
reduction. We also present here the exposition of this technique
in application to the given task. Besides, we use a modification
of the method, connected with cyclic ramified coverings, that
allows us to bypass referring to the engulfing lemma as well as to
other multidimensional results, and so the theorem is proved also
for spaces of any dimension. Thus, our exposition is complete and
does not require references to other works for the needed technique.
Empirical mode decomposition analysis of climate changes with special reference to rainfall data
Authors: Molla Md. Khademul Islam , Rahman M. Sayedur , Sumi Akimasa , Banik Pabitra
Published: May 2006

We have used empirical mode decomposition (EMD) method, which is especially well fitted for analyzing time‐series data representing nonstationary and nonlinear processes. This method could decompose any time‐varying data into a finite set of functions called “intrinsic mode functions” (IMFs). The EMD analysis successively extracts the IMFs with the highest local temporal frequencies in a recursive way. The extracted IMFs represent a set of successive low‐pass spatial filters based entirely on the properties exhibited by the data. The IMFs are mutually orthogonal and more effective in isolating physical processes of various time scales. The results showed that most of the IMFs have normal distribution. Therefore, the energy density distribution of IMF samples satisfies χ2‐distribution which is statistically significant. This study suggested that the recent global warming along with decadal climate variability contributes not only to the more extreme warm events, but also to more frequent, long lasting drought and flood.
Permanence for a class of nonlinear difference systems
Authors: Dai Binxiang , Zou Xingfu
Published: May 2006

A class of nonlinear difference systems is considered in this paper. By exploring the relationship between this system and a correspondent first‐order difference system, some permanence results are obtained.
The Apollonian decay of beer foam bubble size distribution and the lattices of young diagrams and their correlated mixing functions
Authors: Sauerbrei S. , Haß E. C. , Plath P. J.
Published: May 2006

We present different methods to characterise the decay of beer foam by measuring the foam heights and recording foam images as a function of time. It turns out that the foam decay does not follow a simple exponential law but a higher‐order equationV(t) =a−bt−ct2.5, which can be explained as a superposition of two processes, that is, drainage and bubble rearrangement. The reorganisation of bubbles leads to the structure of an Apollonian gasket with a fractal dimension ofD≈ 1.3058. Starting from foam images, we study the temporal development of bubble size distributions and give a model for the evolution towards the equilibrium state based upon the idea of Ernst Ruch to describe irreversible processes by lattices of Young diagrams. These lattices generally involve a partial order, but one can force a total order by mapping the diagrams onto the interval [0, 1] using ordering functions such as the Shannon entropy. Several entropy‐like and nonentropy‐like mixing functions are discussed in comparison with the Young order, each of them giving a special prejudice for understanding the process of structure formation during beer foam decay.
Fixed point sets of maps homotopic to a given map
Authors: Soderlund Christina L
Published: May 2006

Let "Equation missing" be a self-map of a compact, connected polyhedron and "Equation missing" a closed subset. We examine necessary and sufficient conditions for realizing "Equation missing" as the fixed point set of a map homotopic to "Equation missing". For the case where "Equation missing" is a subpolyhedron, two necessary conditions were presented by Schirmer in 1990 and were proven sufficient under appropriate additional hypotheses. We will show that the same conditions remain sufficient when "Equation missing" is only assumed to be a locally contractible subset of "Equation missing". The relative form of the realization problem has also been solved for "Equation missing" a subpolyhedron of "Equation missing". We also extend these results to the case where "Equation missing" is a locally contractible subset.
Fixed point indices and manifolds with collars
Authors: Benjamin Chen-Farng , Gottlieb Daniel Henry
Published: May 2006

This paper concerns a formula which relates the Lefschetz number "Equation missing" for a map "Equation missing" to the fixed point index "Equation missing" summed with the fixed point index of a derived map on part of the boundary of "Equation missing". Here "Equation missing" is a compact manifold and "Equation missing" is "Equation missing" with a collar attached.
Parallel Implementation of Katsevich′s FBP Algorithm
Authors: Yang Jiansheng , Guo Xiaohu , Kong Qiang , Zhou Tie , Jiang Ming
Published: May 2006

For spiral cone‐beam CT, parallel computing is an effective approach to resolving the problem of heavy computation burden. It is well known that the major computation time is spent in the backprojection step for either filtered‐backprojection (FBP) or backprojected‐filtration (BPF) algorithms. By the cone‐beam cover method [1], the backprojection procedure is driven by cone‐beam projections, and every cone‐beam projection can be backprojected independently. Basing on this fact, we develop a parallel implementation of Katsevich′s FBP algorithm. We do all the numerical experiments on a Linux cluster. In one typical experiment, the sequential reconstruction time is 781.3 seconds, while the parallel reconstruction time is 25.7 seconds with 32 processors.
Classifying two‐dimensional hyporeductive triple algebra
Authors: Issa A. Nourou
Published: May 2006

Two‐dimensional real hyporeductive triple algebras (h.t.a.) are investigated. A classification of such algebras is presented. As a consequence, a classification of two‐dimensional real Lie triple algebras (i.e., generalized Lie triple systems) and two‐dimensional real Bol algebras is given .
Strong convergence of modified Noor iterations
Authors: Su Yongfu , Qin Xiaolong
Published: May 2006

In this paper, strong convergence theorem is obtained for the
modified Noor iterations in the framework of uniformly smooth
Banach spaces. Our results extend and improve the recent ones
announced by Wittman, Kim, Xu, and some others.
Strong convergence and control condition of modifiedHalpern iterations in Banach spaces
Authors: Yao Yonghong , Chen Rudong , Zhou Haiyun
Published: May 2006

Let C
be a nonempty closed convex subset of a real Banach space
X
which has a uniformly Gâteaux differentiable norm. Let
T ∈ ΓC
and f ∈ ΠC. Assume that {xt}
converges
strongly to a fixed point z
of T
as t → 0, where
xt
is the unique element of C
which satisfies
xt = tf(xt) + (1 − t)Txt. Let {αn}
and {βn} be two real sequences in (0, 1) which satisfy the following conditions: (C1)lim⁡n→∞αn = 0; (C2)(C6)0 < lim⁡inf⁡n→∞βn ≤ lim⁡sup⁡n→∞βn < 1. For arbitrary x0 ∈ C, let the sequence
{xn}
be defined iteratively by
yn = αnf(xn) + (1 − αn)Txn, n ≥ 0,
xn+1 = βnxn + (1 − βn)yn, n ≥ 0. Then {xn}

converges strongly to a fixed point of T.
Duality without constraint qualification in nonsmooth optimization
Authors: Nobakhtian S.
Published: May 2006

We are concerned with a nonsmooth multiobjective optimization
problem with inequality constraints. In order to obtain our main
results, we give the definitions of the generalized convex
functions based on the generalized directional derivative. Under
the above generalized convexity assumptions, sufficient and
necessary conditions for optimality are given without the need of
a constraint qualification. Then we formulate the dual problem
corresponding to the primal problem, and some duality results are
obtained without a constraint qualification.
Existence of solutions for generalized nonlinear mixed variational‐like inequalities in Banach spaces
Authors: Zhao Yali , Xia Zunquan , Liu Zeqing , Kang Shin Min
Published: May 2006

We introduce and study a new class of generalized nonlinear mixed variational‐like inequalities in reflexive Banach spaces. By applying Ding′s technique we prove several existence and uniqueness theorems of solutions for the generalized nonlinear mixed variational‐like inequality, extend the auxiliary problem technique to suggest and analyze an iterative method to compute the approximate solutions of the generalized nonlinear mixed variational‐like inequality, and establish the convergence criteria of the iterative method. The results presented in this paper improve, extend, and unify many known results in this area.
Invariant f‐structures on the flag manifolds	SO(n)/SO(2) × SO(n − 3)
Authors: Balashchenko Vitaly V. , Sakovich Anna
Published: May 2006

We consider manifolds of oriented flags SO(n)/SO(2) × SO(n − 3)(n ≥ 4)
as 4‐ and 6‐symmetric spaces and
indicate characteristic conditions for invariant Riemannian
metrics under which the canonical f‐structures on these
homogeneous Φ‐spaces belong to the classes Kill f, NKf, and G1f of
generalized Hermitian geometry.
On the maximal G‐compactification of products of two G‐spaces
Authors: Antonyan Natella
Published: May 2006

Let G be any Hausdorff topological group and let βGX
denote the maximal G‐compactification of a G‐Tychonoff space
X. We prove that if X and Y are two G‐Tychonoff spaces
such that the product X × Y is pseudocompact, then
βG(X × Y) = βGX × βGX.
Quantitative Determination of the Multicomponents With Overlapping Ultraviolet Spectra Using Wavelet‐Packed Transform and Partial Least Squares
Authors: Gao Ling , Ren Shouxin
Published: May 2006

This paper presented a novel method named wavelet packet transform‐based partial least squares method (WPTPLS) for simultaneous spectrophotometric determination of α‐naphthylamine, p‐nitroaniline, and benzidine. Wavelet packet representations of signals provided a local time‐frequency description and separation ability between information and noise. The quality of the noise removal can be improved by using best‐basis algorithm and thresholding operation. Partial least squares (PLS) method uses both the response and concentration information to enhance its ability of prediction. In this case, by optimization, wavelet function and decomposition level for WPTPLS method were selected as Db16 and 3, respectively. The relative standard errors of prediction (RSEP) for all components with WPTPLS and PLS were 2.23% and 2.71%, respectively. Experimental results showed WPTPLS method to be successful and better than PLS.
Real zeros of random algebraic polynomials withbinomial elements
Authors: Nezakati A. , Farahmand K.
Published: May 2006

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 mean zero. For integers m
and k = O(log⁡n) 2
the
variances of the coefficients are assumed to have nonidentical
value , where n = k · m
and i = 0, 1, 2, …, m − 1. Previous results are mainly for identically
distributed coefficients or when
. We
show that the latter is a special case of our general theorem.
Viscosity solution of linear regulator quadratic for degenerate diffusions
Authors: Baten Md. Azizul
Published: May 2006

The paper studied a linear regulator quadratic control problem for
degenerate Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman (HJB) equation. We showed the
existence of viscosity properties and established a unique
viscosity solution of the degenerate HJB equation associated with
this problem by the technique of viscosity solutions.