bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Genomic and Derived Protein Structure of a Novel Human Serum Amyloid A Gene, SAA4
Authors: WATSON G. , COADE S. , WOO P. 
Published: June 2006

We have determined the structure of the novel SAA gene. SAA4. The gene is 6.2 kb in length and comprises three introns and four exons. Introns 2 and 3 are significantly longer than those of the other human SAA genes. We have sequenced the exons and junction fragments and have shown that the sequence is the same as c‐SAA [1] and does not correspond to the pseudogene carried on GSAA4 [2]. The predicted SAA4 protein sequence has an eight amino acid insertion relative to the other human SAA proteins and is more closely related to rabbit and mouse SAA proteins than to the other human SAA proteins, or to those of animal species which also possess an insertion.We have analysed the predicted SAA4 protein relative to the other human SAA proteins and have identified three important structural regions. We predict that region 1 of SAA4 represents a lipid binding domain. Region 2 forms an extensive, distinetive, hydrophobic β sheet region in place of a helical region. In region 3, SAA4 is the only SAA protein having an α helix which is not amphipathic. We predict that the SAA4 protein retains a modified function of the conserved region, retains the Ca2+ binding site, has an amino terminal surface site and has a potentially distinct secretion pattern. Together, these differences indicate a distinct function from those of the other SAA proteins.
Relationship between haemoglobin and haematocrit in the definition of anaemia
Authors: Quintó Llorenç , Aponte John J. , Menéndez Clara , Sacarlal Jahit , Aide Pedro , Espasa Mateu , Mandomando Inacio , Guinovart Caterina , Macete Eusebio , Hirt Rosmarie , Urassa Honorathy , Navia Margarita M. , Thompson Ricardo , Alonso Pedro L. 
Published: July 2006

SummaryIntroduction  Anaemia is the most frequent haematological disorder in childhood. The notion that defines naemia does not change throughout life, although parameters used for its evaluation show significant variations during childhood. Haematocrit (Hct) (%) is usually defined as three times the value of haemoglobin (Hgb) (g/dl), while the clinical definition of anaemia is related to either an abnormal Hct or Hgb value.Objective  To evaluate the agreement between Hgb and Hct values in the definition of anaemia, the relationship between these two parameters and their age‐dependence.Methods  The Hct and Hgb paired values from children aged 2–18 months from Ifakara (Tanzania) and children aged 1–4 years from Manhiça (Mozambique) were analysed. Haematological determinations of the Manhiça samples were done using a KX‐21N cell counter (Kobe, Japan) and Ifakara samples were analysed in a semiautomatic cell counter (Sysmex F800 microcell counter, TOA Medical Electronics, Kobe, Japan). The κ‐statistic was used to calculate the agreement between anaemia definitions in each group. Crude and multivariate relationship between Hct and Hgb levels were analysed by linear regression model estimation. The age‐dependence of the crude ratio (Hct/Hgb) was analysed using linear regression models and fractional polynomials.Results  The prevalences of mild and moderate anaemia as defined by Hgb levels in the Manhiça group were 61% and 6%, respectively, and 41% and 2% by Hct. In the Ifakara group these were 74% and 10%, respectively, by Hgb and 42% and 3% by Hct, respectively. Agreement between mild and moderate anaemia definitions made up from Hgb or from Hct levels were from fair to moderate. Hct levels decreased with age for high Hgb levels, whereas they increased for low Hgb levels. The classification of cases is improved when higher age‐related cut‐off values for Hct are used. The crude relationship between Hct and Hgb levels was significantly different from 3, and this was modified by age. The evaluation of the age‐dependence ratio (Hct/Hgb) showed a non‐linear relationship with an asymptotic trend to 3.Conclusions  Measurement of haematocrit count is easy and can be performed in most rural health care centres. However, the corresponding Hgb levels cannot be derived with an acceptable accuracy using the value 3 as a conversion factor. Furthermore, the commonly assumed ‘equivalent’ cut‐off points for anaemia definitions need to be re‐evaluated.
Patterns of invasion in the Laurentian Great Lakes in relation to changes in vector activity
Authors: Ricciardi Anthony 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTThe Laurentian Great Lakes basin has been invaded by at least 182 non‐indigenous species. A new invader is discovered every 28 weeks, which is the highest rate recorded for a freshwater ecosystem. Over the past century, invasions have occurred in phases linked to changes in the dominant vectors. The number of ship‐vectored invaders recorded per decade is correlated with the intensity of vessel traffic within the basin. Ballast water release from ocean vessels is the putative vector for 65% of all invasions recorded since the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959. As a preventive measure, ocean vessels have been required since 1993 to exchange their freshwater or estuarine ballast with highly saline ocean water prior to entering the Great Lakes. However, this procedure has not prevented ship‐vectored species introductions. Most ships visiting the Great Lakes declare ‘no ballast on board’ (NOBOB) and are exempt from the regulation, even though they carry residual water that is discharged into the Great Lakes during their activities of off‐loading inbound cargo and loading outbound cargo. Recently introduced species consist predominantly of benthic invertebrates with broad salinity tolerance. Such species are most likely to survive in a ballast tank following ballast water exchange, as well as transport in the residual water and tank sediments of NOBOB ships. Thus, the Great Lakes remain at risk of being invaded by dozens of euryhaline invertebrates that have spread into Eurasian ports from whence originates the bulk of foreign ships visiting the basin.
Detection of HTLV‐I and ‐II in Scottish blood donor samples and archive donations
Authors: Davidson F. , Lycett C. , Jarvis L. M. , Kerr D. , Lumley S. , Petrik J. , Dow B. C. 
Published: June 2006

Background and Objectives  Positive samples identified during routine serological screening for HCV (hepatitis C virus), HBV (hepatitis B virus) and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) are confirmed by nucleic acid testing in the SNBTS (Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service) PCR Reference laboratory. Serological screening for HTLV‐I (human T‐cell lymphotropic virus type I) and ‐II was implemented in Scotland in November 2002, at which time a PCR assay was not available for confirmation. Our aim was to develop a real‐time PCR assay that could be used for the confirmation of samples showing HTLV‐I serological positive or indeterminate reactivity and to investigate whether a serologically silent carrier status exists (‘Tax’ only) in the Scottish donor population.Materials and Methods  A real‐time HTLV PCR was devised using a lymphoblastoid cell line which has HTLV‐I sequence integrated in the genome (C8166 cells). These were spiked into peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The assay was evaluated on archived serologically confirmed HTLV‐positive samples and new positives identified since implementation of screening.Results  HTLV‐I and ‐II were detected in cells and plasma from stored donations and a serological positive donation identified in routine screening. HTLV DNA can also be amplified from the plasma obtained from plasma preparation tubes. There was no evidence of a carrier status (‘Tax’ only) in 100 serologically negative blood donors tested. The PCR assay developed is reliable and sensitive, capable of identifying one copy of HTLV‐I.Conclusions  The HTLV PCR is a useful addition for HTLV confirmation, especially in serologically indeterminate samples and for look‐back studies. HTLV PCR confirmation will provide additional useful information for donor medical staff for counselling donors.
Pitfalls in pediatric tracheostomy: a case report
Authors: CULNANE TAMARA , HULLETT BRUCE , FARRELL TANYA 
Published: June 2006

SummaryTracheostomy is required in approximately 22% of children with Goldenhar syndrome because of upper airway obstruction. We report a case of problematic tracheostomy placement in a 24‐week‐old ex‐premature infant with Goldenhar syndrome. This infant had potentially life‐threatening ventilatory insufficiency following tracheostomy placement related to tracheostomy tube size and position. These complications may have been avoided by a change in practice in methods of assessment of tube position.
Prophylactic recombinant factor VIIa administration to an infant with congenital systemic juvenile xanthogranuloma
Authors: DE SANTIAGO JESUS , MARTINEZ‐GARCIA ERNESTO , GIRON JORGE , SALCEDO CONCEPCIÓN , PÉREZ‐GALLARDO ANTONIO 
Published: June 2006

SummaryWe report the case of an infant affected with congenital systemic juvenile xanthogranuloma scheduled for central venous access system implantation (Port‐a‐CathTM) and a liver and bone marrow biopsy. The patient had impaired liver function, thrombocytopenia, and coagulopathy which was refractory to daily fresh‐frozen plasma and platelet infusions: 80 μg·kg−1 dose−1 of recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) was administered i.v. every 2 h starting 30 min before the procedure and ending 6 h afterwards. Very minor bleeding was observed during the procedure. In conclusion, rFVIIa therapy was effective as prophylaxis for both invasive procedures in this patient with a coagulopathy which was refractory to other different therapies.
Characterization of diatom–cyanobacteria symbioses on the basis of nifH, hetR and 16S rRNA sequences
Authors: Foster Rachel A. , Zehr Jonathan P. 
Published: July 2006

Summary Richelia intracellularis is a symbiotic heterocystous cyanobacterium that is capable of forming associations with several genera of diatoms. nifH, 16S rRNA and hetR sequences were amplified and cloned from field populations of Richelia associated with Hemiaulus hauckii (N. Atlantic), with Rhizosolenia clevei (N. Pacific), and from a cultivated isolate of Calothrix associated with Chaetoceros from station ALOHA (N. Pacific). Sequence identity was highest (98.2%) among the 16S rRNA sequences, and more divergent for the hetR (83.8%) and nifH (91.1%) sequences. The hetR and nifH DNA and amino acid sequences obtained from the symbionts associated with the three different diatom genera diverged into three separate lineages supported by high bootstrap values. The data indicate that symbionts in the different hosts are distinct species or strains. Furthermore, three previously unidentified heterocystous‐like nifH sequence groups recently reported from station ALOHA in the subtropical Pacific, het‐1, het‐2 and het‐3, were linked to Richelia associated with R. clevei, H. hauckii and the Calothrix symbiont of Chaetoceros sp. respectively.
A Community Economic Forecasting and Simulation System: Description of a Satellite Model
Authors: KHAN M. SHAHBAZ , TREYZ GEORGE I. 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTThis paper deals with the problem of modelling sub‐county areas that are so small that county level forecasts cannot be used for policy purposes. Starting from a simple specification that relates demand for local goods and services to local and non‐local income, a system of equations is developed that can be used as a satellite to a county model to forecast impacts of economic events at the town level. Regression coefficients for the equations are estimated using data at the one‐digit SIC code level for a pooled sample of towns in Massachusetts. Model validation tests are reported. An example of an application is provided by simulating impacts of 500 new manufacturing jobs in a town within a county. Our approach yields simulation and forecasting results for both the town and the county.
Alternatives to Unemployment‐Based Funding Formulas In the Allocation of Federal Grants
Authors: F.RAGAN, Jr. JAMES , J.SLOTTJE DANIEL 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTEach year Congress allocates billions of dollars to states on the basis of unemployment. The stated objectives include assisting unskilled, economically disadvantaged, and dislocated workers; yet unemployment is a poor proxy for identifying such individuals. This paper examines the consequences of altering allocation formulas and concludes that switching from unemployment statistics to alternative measures of need, e.g., low wages, low income, or poverty, would have a dramatic impact on the geographic distribution of funds. Even switching from one unemployment statistic to another (e.g., from aggregate unemployment to excess unemployment or long‐term unemployment) would substantially alter the distribution of funds.
Taxation of Natural Resources and State Economic Growth
Authors: NELSON MICHAEL A. 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTThe econometric evidence that has been brought to bear on the question of how state and local taxes affect the location decision of firms among competing states or regions is surprisingly sparse and often contradictory. In this research the question is addressed from a different empirical perspective than has been considered heretofore. Using a pool of cross‐section and time‐series data, the trends in employment and capital formation in three energy‐rich states are analyzed during a period when these states substituted energy‐related revenues for more traditional forms of taxation. McLure's general equilibrium model of regional taxation and industrial location forms the theoretical basis for the empirical analysis. The findings suggest that relative changes in state and local taxes on products and labor are of more significance as a location determinant than relative changes in the state corporate income tax.
Annexation Rates and Institutional Constraints
Authors: LINER GAINES H. 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTThis paper analyzes the Sengstock typology of annexation laws for predictive power. Cities were found to annex at different rates when categorized according to the Sengstock typology. Cities allowed to annex land areas under municipal determination provisions were found to annex at higher rates than cities that annexed under predominantly under other types of laws. Cities that annexed under judicial determination provisions were found to annex land areas at lower rates than cities that annexed under other types of laws.
Metropolitan Growth and Decline in the United States: an Empirical Analysis
Authors: CADWALLADER MARTIN 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTUrban growth rates are documented for the largest United States Metropolitan Statistical Areas for the periods 1965–70 and 1975–80. The spatial pattern associated with these growth rates tends to reinforce the sunbelt‐frostbelt dichotomy, as the majority of cities with positive migration rates for both time periods are located outside of the heavily industrialized Northeast and Midwest regions of the country. Two and three‐group discriminant analyses indicate that manufacturing activity, local tax rates, and spending on education, are particularly important discriminators between growing and declining cities. A simultaneous‐equations framework is used to formally model the interrelationships between migration rates for SMSA's and other variables, such as income, unemployment, taxes, public spending, and housing costs. Using two‐stage least squares analysis, the estimated coefficients, and their associated standard errors suggest that the net migration equation works better for the 1975‐80 data than for the previous time period.
Producer Services and Flexible Production: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: COFFEY WILLIAM J. , BAILLY ANTOINE S. 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTWhile the flexible production literature has become increasingly abundant in recent years, the vast majority of it is narrowly restricted to manufacturing activities, entirely ignoring the role that producer services play in modern systems of production. This paper attempts to explore the conceptual linkages between the growth and the location of producer services, on the one hand, and the rise of flexible forms of production, on the other. After a brief summary of the flexible production approach, the factors underlying the growth and the increasing externalization of producer services are examined. The appropriateness of employing a flexible production framework in the case of producer services, and the significance of flexible production for understanding the location of producer services are then explored. Finally, the labor force effect of flexibility in the production and use of producer services is considered.
Geographic Perspectives on Elderly Population Growth
Authors: ROGERSON PETER A. 
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTThe proportion of a region's population that is elderly may change over time for many different reasons. The proportion may grow because of the net in‐migration of elderly individuals, or it may grow because of the net out‐migration of nonelderly residents. Furthermore, the proportion may grow if the number of nonmovers in the “pre‐elderly” cohort is relatively high. This paper discusses in detail the ways in which this proportion may change over time. This is complemented by a state‐level empirical study of elderly population growth in the United States during the late 1980s. The spatial pattern of the rate of new entry into the elderly cohort among nonmovers is found to be particularly influential in determining changes in the proportion of a state's population that is elderly.
Factors Associated With Life Space Among Community‐Living Rural Elders in Japan
Authors: Murata Chiyoe , Kondo Takaaki , Tamakoshi Koji , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Toyoshima Hideaki 
Published: June 2006

ABSTRACT
Objectives: The study objective was to identify factors associated with life space to examine the service needs of the elderly.Design: Cross‐sectional study.Sample: 2,409 community‐living elderly in a rural town in Japan.Measurement: Daily activity level was used as a proxy for life space. Respondents were asked about their daily activity, health status, and psychosocial factors in a self‐administered questionnaire. Factors associated with life space were identified using general linear models. Relative associations of each factor with life space were tested using stepwise multiple regression procedure.Results: Elderly in a smaller life space were significantly older, had more illnesses, worse activities of daily living (ADL), and poor self‐rated health. Poor psychological well‐being and fewer social relations were also associated with a smaller life space. Age and ADL difficulty accounted for 51.7% of life space variations. In addition, more elderly with ADL difficulty expressed unmet needs for transportation and socializing opportunities.Conclusions: Life space was related not only to age or health status but also to environmental or psychosocial factors. Appropriate services for a vulnerable population may have a positive effect on elderly health. Moreover, elderly life space may be used as an indicator to identify people at risk in order to provide more effective community‐based programs for the elderly.
Information Content of Business Methods Patents
Authors: Boscaljon Brian , Filbeck Greg , Smaby Tim 
Published: July 2006

AbstractWe examine the market reaction to business method patents granted to publicly traded firms. Our findings suggest that the State Street decision represents a turning point not only for the growth in the number of business method patent filings, but also in the market's awareness and perception of value creation for the filing firms. The granting of a business method patent evokes a positive average stock price reaction, especially in the post‐State Street period. Cross‐sectional differences in abnormal returns depend on the type of patent granted. The market reaction also differs based on industry classification.
Significance of QRS Duration Changes in the Evaluation of ST‐Segment Depression Presenting Exclusively During the Postexercise Recovery Period
Authors: Michaelides Andreas P. , Fourlas Christos A. , Giannopoulos Nikolaos , Aggeli Konstantina , Andrikopoulos George K. , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Massias Spiros S. , Stefanadis Christodoulos I. 
Published: July 2006

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of QRS prolongation in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with exercise‐induced ST‐segment depression exclusively during the recovery period. Methods: The study population consisted of 107 patients (90 males and 17 females) aged 39–70 (mean 59 ± 7) years who underwent a treadmill exercise test using Bruce protocol and presented ST‐segment depression limited to the recovery period. Angiographic data were available for all studied patients. Results: Among studied patients, 74 (69%) were found to have hemodynamically significant CAD, while the remaining 33 (31%) had normal coronary arteries. Concomitant QRS prolongation was revealed in 61 (82%) of the patients with angiographically documented CAD, while in 13 (18%) patients QRS duration remained unchanged. On the contrary, only 4 (12%) of the 33 patients with normal coronary arteries showed prolonged QRS duration during ST depression, while in the remaining 29 (88%) QRS duration remained unchanged. Conclusions: The evaluation of the concomitant QRS duration changes may discriminate patients with truly ischemia‐induced ST‐segment depression limited to the recovery period.
The basal cell layer of the developing oral mucosa in the human fetus
Authors: Coslet J. Gorge , Cohen D. Wslter 
Published: June 2006

During successive growth stages in the human embryo, the basal cells of the developing epidermis and specific areas of the oral mucous membranes are observed to be one of two types. One type is represented by a cuboidal cell which contains a large, round nucleus which occupies the majority of space in the cell. The cytoplasm of this cell is granular and slightly eosinophilic. This basal cell is located in the oral epithelium of the lips, cheeks, and soft palate. The other cell type is represented by a tall columnar cell which is polarized by the presence of an oval nucleus in the pole of the cell furthest away from the cell border in contact with the mesenchyme. The polarization produces a clear zone in the cell which is due to the fact that most of the cytoplasm appears to be missing. Small amounts of cytoplasm are present in the cell in the form of fine granules and filaments. It is possible that the granules are filaments seen in cross section. It was impossible to determine this conclusively with the resolution of the light microscope. The polarized, columnar, basal cells were observed in the epithelium of the gum ridge, hard palate, and epidermis.The speculation was offered that the morphologic difference in the basal cells in areas destined to become masticatory and lining mucosa in the adult, may be a reflection of a genetic bias of these tissues to develop along predetermined pathways to become a cornified or a non‐cornified stratified squamous epithelium. The differentiation may initially take place at the same time oral mucosa is differentiated to become dental lamina.