bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Robustness guarantees for linear control designs with an estimated nonlinear model error model
Authors: Glad S. T. , Helmersson A. , Ljung L. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractMuch attention in robust identification and control has been focused on linear low order models approximating high order linear systems. We consider the more realistic situation with a linear model approximating a nonlinear system. We describe how a nonlinear model error model can be developed, that allows a complete linear design process that results in a closed loop system with performance robustness guarantees (in terms of gain from disturbance to output) against the nonlinear error. Clearly the design can be successful only if the linear model is a reasonably good approximation of the system. A particular aspect of the design process is to define a workable definition of ‘practical stability’ for robust control design, with possible non‐linear model errors. We use affine norms for that purpose. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of antenatal glucocorticoid therapy on arterial and venous blood flow velocity waveforms in severely growth‐restricted fetuses
Authors: Wijnberger L. D. E. , Bilardo C. M. , Hecher K. , Stigter R. H. , Visser G. H. A. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractObjectiveTo study the effects of antenatal glucocorticoid (betamethasone) therapy on blood flow velocity waveform patterns in the umbilical artery (UA), middle cerebral artery (MCA) and ductus venosus (DV) in severely intrauterine growth‐restricted (IUGR) fetuses.MethodsFifty‐five severely IUGR fetuses at 24–34 weeks of gestation were included in the study. The effect of antenatal glucocorticoid administration on Doppler findings in the UA, MCA and DV was studied using two statistical approaches, namely paired sample analysis and multilevel analysis.ResultsThere were no effects of betamethasone on the pulsatility index (PI) of the vessels studied. The only changes noticed during the 14 days of observation were a gradual decrease of PI in the MCA, an increase in the UA‐PI/MCA‐PI ratio and an increase in the DV‐PI. These changes with time may be explained by a progressive and gradual deterioration of the fetal condition.ConclusionAntenatal glucocorticoids (betamethasone) do not affect fetal Doppler waveform patterns of the UA, MCA and DV in severely IUGR fetuses. Copyright © 2004 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of [C10N2H10]2[P2Mo5O21(OH)2]·2H2O
Authors: Natarajan Srinirvasan , Ewald Bastian , Prots Yurii , Kniep Rüdiger 
Published: April 2004

AbstractThe crystal structure of [C10N2H10]2[P2Mo5O21(OH)2] · 2H2O, contains the heteropolyanion, [P2Mo5O21(OH)2]4—, together with diprotonated 4, 4′‐bipyridine. The heteropolyanion is built up from five MoO6 octahedra sharing four common edges and one common corner, capped by two PO3(OH) tetrahedra. The structure is stabilized by hydrogen bonds involving the hydrogen atoms of the 4, 4′‐bipyridine, water molecules and the oxygen atoms of the pentamolybdatobisphosphate. This is the first example that this kind of cluster could be isolated in the presence of a poly‐functional aromatic molecule ion. Crystal data: triclinic, P1¯ (No. 2), a = 9.983(2)Å, b = 11.269(2)Å, c = 17.604(4)Å, α = 73.50(3)°, β = 84.07(3)°, γ = 67.96(3)°; V = 1760.0(6)Å3; Z = 2; R1 = 0.037 and wR2 = 0.081, for 9138 reflections [I > 2σ(I)].
Knowledge and attitudes toward end-of-life care in veterans with symptomatic metastatic cancer
Authors: HWANG SHIRLEY S. , CHANG VICTOR T. , COGSWELL JANET , SRINIVAS SHANTHI , KASIMIS BASIL 
Published: April 2004

Objectives:The purposes of this study were to study symptomatic metastatic cancer patients' knowledge and attitudes toward end-of-life (EOL) care and to examine how patient-perceived health status affects attitudes toward EOL care and survival.Methods:From 1999 to 2002, 254 symptomatic metastatic cancer patients at the VA New Jersey Health Care System completed the Vermont Voices on Care of the Dying Questionnaire. Survival status and location of death were obtained. Descriptive statistics and the chi square method were used to assess the differences between African Americans (N= 109) and Caucasians (N= 135), and between different patient-perceived health status groups. A log-rank test was performed to assess for differences in median survival length between different patient-perceived health-status groups.Results:Veterans' responses to the Vermont questionnaire showed knowledge deficits regarding EOL care. There was wide variation in self-rankings of health status: 45.6% of patients rated their illness as serious and life threatening, 18.9% considered their health problem significant but not life threatening, 2.8% thought they were in good health, and one-third of patients were unsure about their health status. Most patients (86.2%) preferred physician frankness when communicating bad news and 61.8% preferred family involvement in EOL discussions. African American patients were less likely to have completed advance directives (p< 0.0001), to have knowledge about hospice programs (p< 0.00001), and to feel capable of assessing their health situation (p= 0.04). Patient-rated health status affected completion rates of advance directives and survival.Significance of the research:These findings demonstrate knowledge deficits and racial differences in attitudes and values toward EOL care in veterans with cancer. The Vermont questionnaire enables patients to state their EOL preferences but may not be detailed enough for clinical applications. Patient-rated health status may be an important explanatory variable for EOL preferences and length of survival.
Tachykinin NK2 receptor antagonists for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Lecci Alessandro , Capriati Angela , Maggi Carlo Alberto 
Published: April 2004

Tachykinin NK2 receptors are expressed in the gastrointestinal tract of both laboratory animals and humans. Experimental data indicate a role for these receptors in the regulation of intestinal motor functions (both excitatory and inhibitory), secretions, inflammation and visceral sensitivity. In particular, NK2 receptor stimulation inhibits intestinal motility by activating sympathetic extrinsic pathways or NANC intramural inhibitory components, whereas a modulatory effect on cholinergic nerves or a direct effect on smooth muscle account for the NK2 receptor‐mediated increase in intestinal motility. Accordingly, selective NK2 receptor antagonists can reactivate inhibited motility or decrease inflammation‐ or stress‐associated hypermotility. Intraluminal secretion of water is increased by NK2 receptor agonists via a direct effect on epithelial cells, and this mechanism is active in models of diarrhoea since selective antagonists reverse the increase in faecal water content in these models. Hyperalgesia in response to intraluminal volume signals is possibly mediated through the stimulation of NK2 receptors located on peripheral branches of primary afferent neurones. NK2 receptor antagonists reduce the hyper‐responsiveness that occurs following intestinal inflammation or application of stressful stimuli to animals. Likewise, NK2 receptor antagonists reduce intestinal tissue damage induced by chemical irritation of the intestinal wall or lumen. In healthy volunteers, the selective NK2 antagonist nepadutant reduced the motility‐stimulating effects and irritable bowel syndrome‐like symptoms triggered by intravenous infusion of neurokinin A, and displayed other characteristics that could support its use in patients. It is concluded that blockade of peripheral tachykinin NK2 receptors should be considered as a viable mechanism for decreasing the painful symptoms and altered bowel habits of irritable bowel syndrome patients.British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 141, 1249–1263. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705751
Role of serotonin in the pathophysiology of the irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Crowell Michael D 
Published: April 2004

The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a complex disorder that is associated with altered gastrointestinal motility, secretion, and sensation. Serotonin (5‐HT) is an important neurotransmitter and paracrine signalling molecule in the gastrointestinal tract. 5‐HT release from enterochromaffin (EC) cells initiates peristaltic, secretory, vasodilatory, vagal and nociceptive reflexes. The enteric nervous system (ENS) comprises a semiautonomous effector system that is connected to the central autonomic network. Parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves modulate the ENS via afferent and efferent communications. Ongoing, bidirectional brain–gut interactions involving 5‐HT pathways occur that significantly influence the effector systems. Altered 5‐HT signalling may lead to both intestinal and extraintestinal symptoms in IBS. 5‐HT directly and indirectly affects intestinal motor and secretory function and abnormalities may lead to either constipation or diarrhea. 5‐HT modulates sensation and perception of visceral stimulation at peripheral and central sites. Therapeutic agents targeting altered 5‐HT signalling may provide new, effective treatments for patients with IBS.British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 141, 1285–1293. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705762
Denaturation of replication protein A reveals an alternative conformation with intact domain structure and oligonucleotide binding activity
Authors: Nuss Jonathan E. , Alter Gerald M. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractReplication protein A (RPA) is a heterotrimeric, multidomain, single‐stranded DNA‐binding protein. Using spectroscopic methods and methylene carbene‐based chemical modification methods, we have identified conformational intermediates in the denaturation pathway of RPA. Intrinsic protein fluorescence studies reveal unfolding profiles composed of multiple transitions, with midpoints at 1.5, 2.7, 4.2, and 5.3 M urea. CD profiles of RPA unfolding are characterized by a single transition. RPA is stabilized with respect to the CD‐monitored transition when bound to a dA15 oligonucleotide. However, oligonucleotide binding appears to exert little, if any, effect on the first fluorescence transition. Methylene carbene chemical modification, coupled with MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry analysis, was also used to monitor unfolding of several specific RPA folds of the protein. The unfolding profiles of the individual structures are characterized by single transitions similar to the CD‐monitored transition. Each fold, however, unravels with different individual characteristics, suggesting significant autonomy. Based on results from chemical modification and spectroscopic analyses, we conclude the initial transition observed in fluorescence experiments represents a change in the juxtaposition of binding folds with little unraveling of the domain structures. The second transition represents the unfolding of the majority of fold structure, and the third transition observed by fluorescence correlates with the dissociation of the 70‐ and 32‐kD subunits.
A protective effect of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate in a rat model of liver cirrhosis
Authors: Bruck Rafael , Schey Ron , Aeed Hussein , Hochman Ayala , Genina Olga , Pines Mark 
Published: April 2004

Abstract: Background: Nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) activation, proinflammatory cytokines, and reactive oxygen species have been implicated as mediators of liver injury and fibrogenesis. We have shown recently that pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC), an antioxidant and inhibitor of NF‐κB activation, was protective in a rat model of acute liver failure. The aim of the present study was to examine the efficacy of PDTC in a chronic rat model of thioacetamide (TAA)‐induced hepatic fibrosis.Methods: Liver cirrhosis was induced by intraperitoneal injections of TAA (200 mg/kg) twice weekly for 12 weeks. Two groups of rats also received PDTC (either 20 or 60 mg/kg, i.p. for 12 weeks).Results: TAA administration induced liver cirrhosis, which was inhibited by PDTC in a dose‐dependent manner. The histopathologic score of fibrosis, the spleen weight, and hepatic hydroxyproline were significantly lower in the rats treated with TAA+PDTC compared with TAA only (P<0.001). The hepatic levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and protein carbonyls after 12 weeks of treatment were also lower in the rats treated with TAA+PDTC (P=0.02 and 0.01, respectively), indicating reduced oxidative stress. Immunohistochemical studies and in situ hybridization demonstrated inhibition of stellate cell (α smooth muscle actin positive) activation, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐2, and collagen α1(I) gene expression in the livers of the PDTC‐treated rats. As determined by Northern blot analysis, PDTC had no inhibitory effect on collagen α1(I) gene expression in the rat hepatic stellate cells‐T6 cells in vitro.Conclusions: PDTC inhibits the development of liver cirrhosis in TAA‐treated rats. The mechanism of action is associated with decreased oxidative stress and hepatic necroinflammation.
Factors Related to Adult Patient Decision Making About Withholding or Withdrawing Nutrition and/or Hydration
Authors: Riley Joan M. , Mahoney Margaret Ann , Fry Sara T. , Feild Lucy 
Published: April 2004

Abstract(1) End‐of‐life decisions that focus on withholding or withdrawing nutrition and/or hydration present difficult choices at particularly vulnerable times for patients and families. Clinical ethics studies published in the last twenty years provide insight about the decision making process that can be useful to all parties involved. The purpose of the systematic research review is to synthesize empirical data about patient/surrogate decision making related to withholding or withdrawing nutritional sustenance toward the end of life, and contextual factors that influence their decision making. Future topics for clinical ethics research and clinical practice implications are posed.
Smoking Cessation: The State of the Science
Authors: Andersen Susan , Keller Colleen , McGowan Nancy 
Published: April 2004

Abstract(1) Smoking remains the most significant modifiable risk factor for the leading causes of death in the United States. The most frequently used theoretical model used to guide interventions directed toward smoking cessation has been the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) (Prochaska & DiClemente, 1983 [24]), although the effectiveness and efficacy of the model's use in guiding smoking cessation interventions has not been fully evaluated. A non‐statistical meta‐analytic approach was used to examine reports of the use of the TTM in smoking cessation interventions. Three elements were considered for inclusion in this integrated review: the clear specification of the use of a theoretical framework, a specified intervention directed towards changing smoking behavior, and a specified outcome of smoking behavior change. From 1,500 research articles, 16 reports fit these criteria. The assessment of the research reviewed indicates that the TTM has not been fully tested in smoking cessation interventions, nor have process mediators been used to determine the mechanism of smoking behavior change.
A Synthesis of What We Know About the Use of Physical Restraints and Seclusion with Patients in Psychiatric and Acute Care Settings
Authors: Bower Fay L. , McCullough Cynthia S. , Timmons Mae E. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractPurpose(1) This article synthesizes research findings on the use of restraint and seclusion with patients in psychiatric and acute care settings.Conclusions(2) The little that is known about restraint/seclusion use with these populations is inconsistent. Attitudes and perceptions of patients, family, and staff differ. However, all patients had very negative feelings about both, whether they were restrained/secluded or observed by others who were not restrained. The reasons for restraint/seclusion use vary with no accurate use rate for either. What precipitates the use of restraint/seclusion also varies but professionals claim they are necessary to prevent/treat violent or unruly behavior. Some believe seclusion/restraint is effective but there is no empirical evidence to support this belief. Many less restrictive alternatives have been tested with varying outcomes. Several educational programs to help staff learn about different ways to handle violent/confused patients have been successful.Implications(3) Until more is known about restraint/seclusion use from prospective controlled research, the goal to use least restrictive methods must be pursued. More staff educational programs must be offered and the evaluation of alternatives to restraint/seclusion pursued. When seclusion/restraint is necessary it should be used less arbitrarily, less frequently, and with less trauma.
Bilateral Head Flattening in Hospitalized Premature Infants
Authors: Hemingway Martha , Oliver Sandra 
Published: April 2004

Abstract(1) Asymmetrical headshape in infants has increased markedly since the 1992 recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome by avoiding the prone sleeping position. Cranial molding correlated to restrictive intrauterine environment, birth trauma, torticollis, positioning, lack of full bone mineralization, neurological deficits, and any combination of the above. Nursing interventions to prevent cranial molding include alternative mattress surfaces and repositioning. The research strongly supports repositioning of infants to improve cranial vault symmetry.
Examination of the signal transduction pathways leading to activation of gelatinolytic activity by interleukin‐1α and Porphyromonas gingivalis in human osteosarcoma cells
Authors: Chang Yu‐Chao , Chu Shu‐Chen , Yang Shun‐Fa , Hsieh Yih‐Shou , Yang Li‐Chiu , Huang Fu‐Mei 
Published: April 2004

Background:  Recently, evidence show that matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) play an important role in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. However, the mechanisms and signal transduction pathways involved in the production of MMPs in human osteosarcoma cells are not fully understood.Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to investigate the gelatinolytic activity in human osteosarcoma cells stimulated with interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α) or Porphyromonas gingivalis in the absence or presence of SB203580 (p38 inhibitor), U0126 [mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitor], and LY294002 [phosphatidylinositaol 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor].Methods:  IL‐1α and the supernatants of P. gingivalis were used to evaluate gelatinolytic activity in human osteosarcoma cells using gelatin zymography. Furthermore, to search possible signal transduction pathways, SB203580, U0126, and LY294002 were added to test how they modulated the gelatinolytic activity.Results:  Gelatin zymography demonstrated that the latent proforms of gelatinases MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 were released by human osteosarcoma cells. Secretion of MMP‐9 was time‐dependent by stimulating with IL‐1α or P. gingivalis. In addition, SB203580, U0126, and LY294002 significantly reduced the IL‐1α or P. gingivalis‐stimulated MMP‐9 production, respectively (p < 0.05). However, none of the kinase inhibitors affected the MMP‐2 level compared with the control during the 4‐day culture period (p > 0.05).Conclusions:  Our findings demonstrated that IL‐1α and P. gingivalis enhance MMP‐9 production in human osteosarcoma cells, and the signal transduction pathways p38, MEK, and PI3K are involved in the inhibition of MMP‐9. SB203580, U0126, and LY294002 suppress MMP‐9 production and/or activity and may therefore be valuable therapeutics in MMP‐mediated periodontal destruction, and might be proved clinically useful agents, in combination with standard treatment modalities, in the treatment of periodontitis.
The Influence of Going Public on Investment Policy: An Empirical Study of French Family-Owned Businesses
Authors: Mahérault Loïc 
Published: April 2004

This article focuses on the lack of capital available to small, private, family-owned businesses or businesses in which the manager and his or her family hold more than 51% of the total number of shares. It claims that being listed might be the best way to overcome this lack of capital. The article starts from the established view that access to financial resources is not easy for small family-owned businesses (Coleman & Carsky, 1999; De Visscher, Aronoff, & Ward 1995; Harvey & Evans 1995). In questioning the generally admitted frontier between investment and financing policies (Modigliani & Miller, 1958, 1963), this empirical work is on the fringe of standard financial theory. The study is carried out on two samples of small French family firms. The first is composed of 46 private companies, the second of 49 listed companies. All companies are SMEs (small and medium-size enterprises) and are nearly the same size. Empirical results are based on two cross-sectional analyses (1992, 1993). Linear regressions between investment and financial constraints are presented for the two samples separately. Results are very different, depending on whether the firm is listed. The description of private firms' investment is consistent with the pecking order theory (Myers & Majluf, 1984) and financial constraints clearly appear. The description of listed family firms is more classical: investment and financing policies seem to be independent. Finally, quoted family-owned businesses do not seem to suffer from lack of capital.
Clinical, cytogenetic, and molecular characterization of a patient with a de novo interstitial 22q12 duplication
Authors: Gentile M. , Wuyts W. , Grittani S. , Di Carlo A. , Cariola F. , Verdyck P. , Margari L. , Perniola T. , Buonadonna A.L. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractWe report a 19‐year‐old woman with minor craniofacial anomalies, mild mental retardation, and foramina parietalia permagna (FPP) (OMIM 168500). Cytogenetic analysis showed a de novo interstitial chromosome 22 long arm duplication. FISH with a panel of chromosome 22q12‐q13 bands‐specific BAC clones refined the cytogenetic investigation, and restricted the duplicated segment to the q12 region. Mutation analysis of FPP genes identified an insertion mutation in the ALX4 gene (344insC) in the proband and her father with loss of function of the gene. The patient's phenotype is considered in the light of the results of the cytogenetic, FISH, and molecular investigations, and her features are compared with those of other patients with similar duplications. Finally, variable phenotypic findings due to different 22q duplicated chromosomal segments are discussed. Our report indicates that 22q12 interstitial duplications are associated with craniofacial anomalies and mild mental retardation, while life threatening malformations are usually not present. Although these phenotypic changes are common and non‐specific, molecular study of our patient established more precise relationships between clinical findings and 22q duplicated region(s). This approach fosters better counseling of the families of patients with newly diagnosed, similar duplications. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of chromosome segregation in sperm from a chromosome 2 inversion heterozygote and assessment of an interchromosomal effect
Authors: Mikhaail‐Philips Monica M. , Ko Evelyn , Chernos Judy , Greene Calvin , Rademaker Alfred , Martin Renée H. 
Published: April 2004

AbstractUsing fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis, the chromosome segregation of a pericentric inversion of chromosome 2 was studied in spermatozoa. An interchromosomal effect (ICE) was also determined for chromosomes 13, 21, X, and Y. This chromosome inversion included more than 2/3 of the total length of the chromosome and the breaks points were in G‐light bands. The frequency of non‐recombinant sperm was 55.9%, and that of recombinant sperm was 34.5% (with a 1:1 ratio of duplication of the p arm and deletion of the q arm and vice versa). There was a significantly increased frequency of disomy for chromosome 2 (0.6%) compared to the other autosomes, suggesting that pairing and recombination of the inversion may predispose to nondisjunction. There was no significant difference between the frequencies of aneuploidy for chromosomes 13, 21, X, and Y for the chromosome inversion heterozygote compared to control donors. Thus we did not find evidence for an ICE. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.