bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis of congenital disorders of glycosylation type‐I using protein chip technology
Authors: Mills Kevin , Mills Philippa , Jackson Marie , Worthington Viki , Beesley Clare , Mann Anúska , Clayton Peter , Grunewald Stephanie , Keir Geoffrey , Young Liz , Langridge James , Mian Nasi , Winchester Bryan
Published: March 2006

A method for the diagnosis of the congenital disorders of glycosylation type I (CDG‐I) by SELDI‐TOF‐MS of serum transferrin immunocaptured on protein chip arrays is described. The underglycosylation of glycoproteins in CDG‐I produces glycoforms of transferrin with masses lower than that of the normal fully glycosylated transferrin. Immobilisation of antitransferrin antibodies on reactive‐surface protein chip arrays (RS100) selectively enriched transferrin by at least 100‐fold and allowed the detection of patterns of transferrin glycoforms by SELDI‐TOF‐MS using approximately 0.3 µL of serum/plasma. Abnormal patterns of immunocaptured transferrin were detected in patients with known defects in glycosylation (CDG‐Ia, CDG‐Ib, CDG‐Ic, CDG‐If and CDG‐Ih) and in patients in whom the basic defect has not yet been identified (CDG‐Ix). The correction of the N‐glycosylation defect in a patient with CDG‐Ib after mannose therapy was readily detected. A patient who had an abnormal transferrin profile by IEF but a normal profile by SELDI‐TOF‐MS analysis was shown to have an amino acid polymorphism by sequencing transferrin by quadrupole‐TOF MS. Complete agreement was obtained between analysis of immunocaptured transferrin by SELDI‐TOF‐MS and the IEF profile of transferrin, the clinical severity of the disease and the levels of aspartylglucosaminidase activity (a surrogate marker for the diagnosis of CDG‐I). SELDI‐TOF‐MS of transferrin immunocaptured on protein chip arrays is a highly sensitive diagnostic method for CDG‐I, which could be fully automated using microtitre plates and robotics.
Synthesis of optically active copolymers of 2,3,4,5,6‐pentafluorostyrene and β‐pinene with low surface energies
Authors: Paz‐Pazos Marta , Pugh Coleen
Published: March 2006

2,3,4,5,6‐Pentafluorostyrene (PFS) was copolymerized with β‐pinene (PIN) in bulk using benzoyl peroxide as the initiator at 70 °C. The reactivity ratios for PFS (rPFS) and PIN (rPIN) were determined by limiting each monomer conversion to approximately 10 mol % or less during 2 h of copolymerization and then plotting the composition data according to both the Fineman–Ross (r1 = rPFS = 5.2, r2 = rPIN = 0.070) and Kelen–Tudös (r1 = rPFS = 5.0, r2 = rPIN = 0.017) methods. The copolymers exhibited a single glass transition at 60–100 °C, static water contact angles higher than 95°, and optical activity with negative specific rotations. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3114–3124, 2006
Synthesis and characterization of poly(dimethylsiloxane‐urethane) elastomers: Effect of hard segments of polyurethane on morphological and mechanical properties
Authors: Madhavan K. , Reddy B. S. R.
Published: March 2006

A series of poly(dimethylsiloxane‐urethane) elastomers based on hexamethylenediisocyanate, toluenediisocyanate, or 4,4′‐methylenediphenyldiisocyanate hard segment and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) soft segment were synthesized. In this study, a new type of soft‐segmented PDMS crosslinker was synthesized by hydrosilylation reaction of 2‐allyloxyethanol with polyhydromethylsiloxane, using Karstedt's catalyst. The synthesized soft‐segmented crosslinker was characterized by FT‐IR, 1H, and 13C NMR spectroscopic techniques. The mechanical and thermal properties of elastomers were characterized using tensile testing, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamical mechanical analysis measurements. The molecular structure of poly(dimethylsiloxane‐urethane) membranes was characterized by ATR‐FTIR spectroscopic techniques. Infrared spectra indicated the formation of urethane/urea aggregates and hydrogen bonding between the hard and soft domains. Better mechanical and thermal properties of the elastomers were observed. The restriction of chain mobility has been shown by the formation of hydrogen bonding in the soft and hard segment domains, resulting in the increase in the glass‐transition temperature of soft segments. DSC analysis indicates the phase separation of the hard and soft domains. The storage modulus (E′) of the elastomers was increasing with increase in the number of urethane connections between the hard and soft segments. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 2980–2989, 2006
Stimuli‐responsive ampholytic terpolymers of N‐acryloyl‐valine, acrylamide, and (3‐acrylamidopropyl)trimethylammonium chloride: Synthesis, characterization, and solution properties
Authors: Ezell Ryan G. , Gorman Irene , Lokitz Brad , Ayres Neil , McCormick Charles L.
Published: March 2006

Low‐charge density ampholytic terpolymers composed of acrylamide (AM), (3‐acrylamidopropyl)trimethyl ammonium chloride (APTAC), and N‐acryloyl‐valine were prepared via free‐radical polymerization in 0.5 M NaCl to yield terpolymers with random charge distributions. Sodium formate (NaOOCH) was employed as a chain transfer agent during the polymerization to suppress gel effects and broadening of the molecular weight distribution (MWD). Terpolymer compositions were determined by 13C NMR spectroscopy. Terpolymer molecular weights (MWs) and polydispersity indices (PDIs) were obtained via size exclusion chromatography/multi‐angle laser light scattering (SEC‐MALLS). Intrinsic viscosity values determined from SEC‐MALLS data using the Flory–Fox relationship were compared with those determined by low‐shear dilute solution viscometry and found to be in good agreement. SEC‐MALLS experiments allowed examination of radius of gyration‐MW (Rg‐M) relationships and the Mark‐Houwink‐Sakurada intrinsic viscosity‐MW ([η]‐M) relationships for terpolymers. The Rg‐M and [η]‐M relationships indicated little or no excluded volume effects under SEC conditions indicating that the terpolymers were in near theta conditions in an aqueous buffer solution. Potentiometric titration experiments were performed in deionized (DI) water. These studies revealed that the apparent pKa of the AMVALTAC terpolymers increases with increasing VAL content. The solution properties of low‐charge density ampholytic terpolymers have been studied as functions of solution pH, ionic strength, and polymer concentration. The charge‐balanced terpolymers exhibit polyampholyte behavior at pH values ≥ 6.5. As solution pH is decreased, these charge‐balanced terpolymers become increasingly cationic due to the protonation of the VAL repeat units. Charge‐imbalanced terpolymers generally exhibit polyelectrolyte behavior, although the effects of intramolecular electrostatic interactions (e.g., polyampholyte effects) on the hydrodynamic volume are evident at certain values of solution pH and salt concentration. The solution behavior of the terpolymers in the dilute regime correlates well with that predicted by various polyampholyte solution theories. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3125–3139, 2006
Synthesis of norbornenes containing cationic mono‐ and di(cyclopentadienyliron)arene complexes and their ring‐opening metathesis polymerization
Authors: Abd‐El‐Aziz Alaa S. , Okasha Rawda M. , May Leslie J. , Hurd Jeff
Published: March 2006

A number of classes of polynorbornenes containing cationic iron moieties within their side chains were prepared via ring‐opening metathesis polymerization with a ruthenium‐based catalyst. The iron‐containing polymers displayed excellent solubility in polar organic solvents. The weight‐average molecular weights of these polymeric materials were estimated to be in the range of 18,000–48,000. Thermogravimetric analysis of these polymers showed two distinct weight losses. The first weight loss was in the range of 204–260 °C and was due to the loss of the metallic moieties, whereas the second weight loss was observed at 368–512 °C and was due to the degradation of the polymer backbone. Cyclic voltammetry studies of the iron‐containing polymers showed that the 18 e− cationic iron centers underwent a reduction to give the neutral 19 e− complexes at half‐wave potential (E1/2) = −1.105 V. Photolysis of the metallated polymers led to the isolation of the norbornene polymers in very good yields. Differential scanning calorimetry studies showed a sharp increase in the glass‐transition temperatures up to 91 °C when rigid aromatic side chains were incorporated into the norbornene polymers. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3053–3070, 2006
Lung‐function tests in neonates and infants with chronic lung disease: Tidal breathing and respiratory control
Authors: Baldwin David N. , Pillow J. Jane , Stocks Janet , Frey Urs
Published: March 2006

This paper is the fourth in a series of reviews that will summarize available data and critically discuss the potential role of lung‐function testing in infants with acute neonatal respiratory disorders and chronic lung disease of infancy. The current paper addresses information derived from tidal breathing measurements within the framework outlined in the introductory paper of this series, with particular reference to how these measurements inform on control of breathing. Infants with acute and chronic respiratory illness demonstrate differences in tidal breathing and its control that are of clinical consequence and can be measured objectively. The increased incidence of significant apnea in preterm infants and infants with chronic lung disease, together with the reportedly increased risk of sudden unexplained death within the latter group, suggests that control of breathing is affected by both maturation and disease. Clinical observations are supported by formal comparison of tidal breathing parameters and control of breathing indices in the research setting. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2006; 41:391–419. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Subjective pain experience of people with chronic back pain
Authors: De Souza Lorraine H , Frank Andrew O
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Studies into the effect of pain experience on those who have it have largely focused on the views and interpretations of researchers gained by the use of assessment tools aimed at measuring pain. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe pain, as experienced by those with chronic back pain, and to document ‘insider’ accounts of how pain is perceived and understood by those who have it.

Method

Unstructured interviews using the framework approach. Subjects were sampled for age, sex, ethnicity and occupation, from new referrals with back pain to a rheumatology outpatient clinic. Eleven subjects (5 M; 6 F) agreed to be interviewed. Interviews were unstructured, but followed a topic guide. Subjects were interviewed in English (nine) or their preferred language (two). Tape‐recordings of interviews were transcribed verbatim and read in depth twice to identify the topics or concepts. Data were extracted in the form of words and phrases by use of thematic content analysis. The themes were pain description and amount of pain. An independent researcher reviewed the data and confirmed or contended the analysis.

Results

All subjects, except one, provided descriptors of the quality of their pain. The use of simile was common to emphasize both what the pain was, and what it was not. Five subjects expressed a loss of words in trying to describe their pain. Only 13 of 29 different pain descriptors used were commensurate with those in the McGill Pain Questionnaire (Melzack, 1983). Subjects had great difficulty quantifying their pain intensity. Several explained how the pain fluctuated, thus, quantifying pain at one point in time was problematic. Only one subject offered a numerical description of pain intensity.

Conclusions

Subjects provided graphic and in‐depth descriptions of their pain experience, but these bore little resemblance to commonly used assessment tools. The findings challenge the appropriateness of such formal instruments. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Cervicocephalic kinaesthesia: reliability of a new test approach
Authors: Kristjansson Eythor , Dall'alba Paul , Jull Gwendolen
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Relocating either the natural head posture (NHP) or predetermined points in range are clinical tests of impaired neck proprioception but memory might influence these tests. Three new tests, reasoned to be more challenging for the proprioceptive system, were developed. The objectives were to assess the reliability of all tests and whether the three new tests were more challenging for the proprioceptive system.

Method

A test–retest design was used to assess the reproducibility and errors of all five tests. Twenty asymptomatic volunteers were assessed a week apart, using an electromagnetic movement sensor system, the 3‐Space Fastrak. A measure of error magnitude was used to detect kinaesthetic sensibility. Comparison of the means and their corresponding dispersion were analysed descriptively. The between‐day intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated and plots of mean differences between days 1 and 2 were conducted to estimate test reliability. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and least significant difference (LSD) pairwise comparisons were performed to compare the test accuracy between different target positions.

Results

ICCs were between 0.35 and 0.9, but plotting the data modified the interpretation in some tests. Relocating a NHP was easier when the trunk was in a neutral position than when pre‐rotated (error 2.46° (±0.2°) versus 5.95° (±0.7°). Relocating a 30° rotation position (error 5.8° (±0.6°) and repeatedly moving through a target (error 4.82° (±0.7°) was also difficult.

Conclusions

The new tests were more challenging than relocating the NHP but the reliability of tests relocating uncommon positions was questionable. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Crystal structure of axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) liver bile acid‐binding protein bound to cholic and oleic acid
Authors: Capaldi Stefano , Guariento Mara , Perduca Massimiliano , Di Pietro Santiago M. , Santomé José A. , Monaco Hugo L.
Published: March 2006

The family of the liver bile acid‐binding proteins (L‐BABPs), formerly called liver basic fatty acid‐binding proteins (Lb‐FABPs) shares fold and sequence similarity with the paralogous liver fatty acid‐binding proteins (L‐FABPs) but has a different stoichiometry and specificity of ligand binding. This article describes the first X‐ray structure of a member of the L‐BABP family, axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) L‐BABP, bound to two different ligands: cholic and oleic acid. The protein binds one molecule of oleic acid in a position that is significantly different from that of either of the two molecules that bind to rat liver FABP. The stoichiometry of binding of cholate is of two ligands per protein molecule, as observed in chicken L‐BABP. The cholate molecule that binds buried most deeply into the internal cavity overlaps well with the analogous bound to chicken L‐BABP, whereas the second molecule, which interacts with the first only through hydrophobic contacts, is more external and exposed to the solvent. Proteins 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of imidacloprid on the reproduction of acaricide‐resistant and susceptible strains of Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Ako Mouhoube , Poehling Hans‐Michael , Borgemeister Christian , Nauen Ralf
Published: March 2006

Occasional reports linking neonicotinoid insecticide applications to field population outbreaks of the two‐spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, have been a topic of concern for integrated pest management (IPM) programmes, particularly in apples. In order to shed light on the factors which may contribute to the occasional field population increase of T. urticae following the application of neonicotinoid insecticides, greenhouse experiments have been set up. Four different T. urticae strains, namely GSS (acaricide‐susceptible), WI (organophosphate‐selected), USA (a largely uncharacterised strain) and Akita (METI (mitochondrial electron transport inhibitor) acaricide‐resistant and cross‐resistant to dicofol), were compared for their fecundity without insecticide treatment and for their ovipositional response to foliar and drench applications of the field‐relevant dose of imidacloprid (100 mg litre−1). Without insecticide treatment, strain GSS laid significantly more eggs (162.50 (±5.43)) than the multiple resistant strain Akita (139.90 (±5.54)) during a 16 day oviposition period. With imidacloprid treatment the highest effect was observed with GSS, with a significantly reduced number of eggs in drench (143.40 (±4.22)) and foliar (144.60 (±5.85)) applications. For strains Akita and USA, no significant differences were observed in oviposition between imidacloprid treatments and controls. The proportion of F1 female offspring decreased significantly with drench application for GSS and WI, while no differences were observed among strains in the survival of F1 immature stages, except for strain USA. The viability of eggs was relatively high (from 82.9 (±4.5)% for USA to 95.2 (±1.2)% for GSS) and not affected by imidacloprid treatments. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Mode of action of etoxazole
Authors: Nauen Ralf , Smagghe Guy
Published: March 2006

The mode of action of the 2,4‐diphenyl‐1,3‐oxazoline acaricide/insecticide etoxazole has been argued to be moulting inhibition, but experimental results supporting this hypothesis are lacking. This study investigated the effect of etoxazole on chitin biosynthesis in the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Etoxazole induced moulting defects in fall armyworm larvae similar, if not identical, to those caused by benzoylphenylureas, a well‐known class of insecticidal chitin biosynthesis inhibitors. Furthermore, in contrast to untreated larvae, the chitin content in the integuments of larvae several days after treatment did not differ from that in freshly ecdysed individuals, thus suggesting strong chitin biosynthesis inhibition in vivo. A more detailed investigation of the inhibitory potential by incubating cultured integument pieces from larvae of S. frugiperda with [14C]N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine, a radiolabelled chitin precursor, revealed I50 values of 2.95 and 0.071 µM for etoxazole and triflumuron respectively. The incorporation of radiolabel into potassium hydroxide‐resistant material was inhibited by etoxazole in a dose‐dependent manner. Based on these results, it is concluded that the acaricidal and insecticidal mode of action of etoxazole is chitin biosynthesis inhibition. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
North American practices for connections in wood construction
Authors: Snow Monica , Asiz Andi , Chen Zheng , Chui Ying Hei
Published: March 2006

This paper presents results of a formal survey of current North American practices for connections in wood construction and synthesizes the data with related knowledge and experience. The primary aim of the survey was to assess current practices for selecting, designing, and specifying connections that join lumber and other structural wood‐based products to each other, or components made of other material. The survey instruments were broad based electronic questionnaires and follow‐up discussions with selected respondents, experts and producers of engineered wood products. Different questionnaires were distributed to structural engineers in Canada and the US, and architects in Canada. Follow‐up discussions were focussed on specific issues and removal of ambiguities in responses to questionnaires. It was found that traditional fasteners like bolts, nails, spikes and screws are most widely utilized. Connection selection, design and specification practices have not changed significantly owing to the introduction of modern engineered wood products into the market place. Major perceived deficiencies in engineering design information are: complexity of code rules, lack or scarcity of appropriate information related to screwed connections, non‐factory gluing, practical difficulty of using split ring and shear plate connectors, and appropriateness of using power‐driven nails when design codes only address use of hammer‐driven nails. The findings of the surveys are helping with prioritization of research activities within Canada and proposed revision of the Canadian wood design code.
Second‐order effects in the Hückel model of perturbed alternant hydrocarbons and their coincidence for specific one‐ and two‐center perturbations
Authors: Gineityte V.
Published: March 2006

Explicit algebraic expressions are derived and analyzed for the second‐order corrections to the charge‐bond order (CBO) matrix of perturbed alternant hydrocarbons (PAHs) in terms of entire blocks of the common Hamiltonian matrix of parent AHs in the framework of the simple Hückel model. The derivation is based on the direct means of solution of the commutation equation for the one‐electron density matrix by means of passing to the basis of noncanonical molecular orbitals of parent AHs followed by application of the noncommutative Rayleigh–Schrödinger perturbation theory and retransformation of the results into the initial basis of 2pz AOs of carbon atoms. The second‐order corrections obtained are shown to determine alterations in bond orders between chemically bound pairs of atoms under influence of the most popular types of perturbation, viz. changes in the Coulomb parameter(s) and emergence of new intermolecular resonance parameter(s). The same corrections are also demonstrated to play an important role in the formation of stabilization energies of PAHs vs. those of parent AHs. On this basis, an additional insight is given into the content of the classical formulae for total energies of PAHs in terms of self‐polarizabilities of atoms and bonds, viz. an energy correction is shown to be made up of a difference between the primary stabilizing contribution of perturbation (which is twice as large as the final stabilization energy) and the destabilizing increment related to weakening of remaining chemical bonds. A detailed comparison of CBO matrices and stabilization energies is made for compounds originating from the same parent hydrocarbon (R) after perturbation of the Coulomb parameter of a certain AO χr and after building up a composite AH RR′ by formation of a new bond between AOs χr and χ of two identical AHs R and R′ (e.g., pyridine and biphenyl). The first‐order corrections to CBO matrices of these systems are shown to be expressible in terms of the same submatrices, whereas the respective second‐order corrections contain coinciding submatrices referring to parent fragments R and R′. As a result, coincidences are established (i) between the self‐polarizability of the rth atom of the parent AH R and that of the bond between atoms r and r′ of the composite AH RR′, (ii) between alterations in orders of chemical bonds due to both types of perturbation, and (iii) between stabilization energies referring to a single fragment R or R′ under an assumption of coinciding perturbation parameters. On this basis, a nontrivial and intriguing similarity is concluded between respective electronic structures in general. Finally, two particular second‐order effects are revealed for the same systems, viz. a destabilizing effect related mostly to a local weakening of bonds at the site of perturbation and an energy‐free effect manifesting itself as emergence of changes in all bond orders of alternating nature. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2006
Rapid Estimation of Potato Tuber Quality by Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Haase Norbert U.
Published: March 2006

Starch and protein parameters of potato tubers were estimated by near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy measurements of the crude potato mash. Calibration was carried out with a condensed data set of original 1481 individual samples from a varying number of varieties and breeding lines, grown at eight locations over a three‐years period. Validation of the models was performed with an independent data set (n = 133). Starch content of potato tubers was determined with the official under‐water weighting procedure of the EU, and could be predicted with 90% confidence. The NIR model of phosphorus content of starch had a prediction confidence of 53%. Total protein content could be predicted, too (62% confidence), whereas the amount of coagulable protein was not predictable (R2 = 0.25). Despite the different qualification levels of the models, guiding to concrete prediction tools or to a very rough estimation graduating from “low” to “high”, the NIR technique enables potato starch processing plants to optimise both potato starch quality and processing efficiency.
Effect of Acetylation on Rheological Properties of Rice Starch
Authors: Shon Kwang‐Joon , Yoo Byoungseung
Published: March 2006

Rheological properties of acetylated rice starch pastes (5%, w/w) as a function of acetyl degree of substitution (0.025–0.104) were evaluated in steady and dynamic shear. The acetylated rice starch pastes at 25°C had high shear‐thinning behavior (n = 0.17–0.20) with high Casson yield stress (σoc = 47.4–84.1 Pa). Magnitudes of consistency index (K) and yield stress (σoc) increased with increase in acetyl substitution degree. Apparent viscosity (ηa,100) obeyed the Arrhenius temperature relationship over the temperature range of 10–55°C; the activation energy (Ea) values of acetylated starch pastes were in the range of 9.46–11.4 kJ/mol. Magnitudes of storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G′′) and complex viscosity (η*) of acetylated starch pastes increased with increase in degree of acetyl substitution, and the magnitudes of G′ were also much greater than those of G′′ and η* at all values of frequencies (ω). The Cox‐Merz superposition rule did not describe the relationship between dynamic (η*) and apparent viscosity (ηa) for all samples.
Book Reviews: Macromolecules By H. G. Elias
Authors: Schierbaum F.
Published: March 2006

No abstracts.
Structure transformations in CrNi steels under tribological stressing at low temperatures
Authors: A?mus K. , Hübner W. , Pyzalla A. , Pinto H.
Published: March 2006

The stability of austenitic FeCrNi alloys to martensitic transformation is essential for the operation of cryogenic components in motion. High strength, sufficient ductility and the absence of ferromagnetism are desired properties. Results of ball‐on‐disc sliding tests are presented. Examples are given for testing at room temperature and conclusions are made for low temperatures equivalent to the boiling points of nitrogen, hydrogen and helium. Changes in the alloy microstructure are shown by light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, magnetic induction, and X‐ray diffraction methods. The influence of liquid hydrogen on structure transformation is taken into special consideration, since it decreases the stacking fault energy of the materials, and favours martensitic transformation. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A low‐order model for analysing effects of blade fatigue load control
Authors: Kallesøe B. S.
Published: March 2006

A new low‐order mathematical model is introduced to analyse blade dynamics and blade load‐reducing control strategies for wind turbines. The model consists of a typical wing section model combined with a rotor speed model, leading to four structural degrees of freedom (flapwise, edgewise and torsional blade oscillations and rotor speed). The aerodynamics is described by an unsteady aerodynamic model. The equations of motion are derived in non‐linear and linear form. The linear equations of motion are used for stability analysis and control design. The non‐linear equations of motion are used for time simulations to evaluate control performance. The stability analysis shows that the model is capable of predicting classical flutter and stall‐induced vibrations. The results from the stability analysis are compared with known results, showing good agreement. The model is used to compare the performance of one proportional–integral–derivative controller and two full‐state feedback controllers. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Use of Preoperative Endoscopic Tattooing in Laparoscopic Colorectal Cancer Surgery for Endoscopically Advanced Tumors: A Prospective Comparative Clinical Study
Authors: Arteaga‐González Ivan , Martín‐Malagón Antonio , Fernández Eudaldo M. López‐Tomassetti , Arranz‐Durán Javier , Parra‐Blanco Adolfo , Nicolas‐Perez David , Quintero‐Carrión Enrique , Luis Hermogenes Díaz , Carrillo‐Pallares Angel
Published: March 2006

Background

Endoscopic India ink marking techniques are often used for the intraoperative location of colonic polyps and early stage neoplasms. The aim of this study was to compare how effective this technique is compared with conventional localization methods, as well as its influence on the results of colorectal laparoscopy (LSCRC) for endoscopically advanced tumors.

Methods

From January 2003 to January 2005, 47 patients with colorectal carcinomas were included in the study. In one group, lesions were localized preoperatively by endoscopic India ink tattooing (n = 21; tattooed group, TG), while conventional methods were used in the others (n = 26; non‐tattooed group, NTG). Patients’ perioperative clinical and pathoanatomical data were prospectively collected.

Results

Both groups were comparable in age, sex distribution, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, body mass index (BMI), technique performed, tumor size and proportion of patients who had previous abdominal surgery. Three patients presented ink spillage without clinical repercussions. Visualization of the correct resection site was higher in the TG (100% vs. 80.8%, P = 0.03). Operative time (147.3 ± 46.2 vs. 187.0 ± 52.7 minutes, P = 0.02) and blood loss (99.3 ± 82.8 vs. 163.6 ± 96.6 cc, P = 0.03) were lower in the TG. There were no differences between groups regarding peristalsis, introduction of oral intake, hospital stay or intra‐ and postoperative complication rates. No differences were observed amongst pathoanatomical data studied.

Conclusions

Preoperative endoscopic tattooing is a safe and effective technique for intraoperative localization of advanced colorectal neoplasms, improving the operative results of LSCRC.
Microsatellites reveal male recombination and neo-sex chromosome formation in Scaptodrosophila hibisci (Drosophilidae)
Authors: WILSON ALEX C. C. , SUNNUCKS PAUL , BEDO D. G. , BARKER J. S. F.
Published: March 2006

In drosophilid flies, male recombination and neo-sex chromosome formation are rare. Following the genotyping of full-sib families with 20 microsatellite markers and subsequent cytological work, we found evidence of both male recombination and neo-sex chromosome formation in Scaptodrosophila hibisci. As far as we are aware, this is the first report of male recombination and neo-sex chromosome formation co-occurring in a drosophilid fly. Two autosomal loci, Sh29c and Sh90, showed aberrant segregation of male parental alleles. We describe how an autosomal fission followed by fusion of one of the autosomal fragments to the Y chromosome to create a Y1Y2X1X2/X1X1X2X2 sex determination system provides the most parsimonious explanation of the patterns we observe. Male recombination was observed in three families, including autosomal linkage groups and the Y1/X2 linkage group. In addition to the X1 linkage group, two autosomal linkage groups were identified.
Bibliography of Books Published in 2002, 2003, and 2004
Authors: Siehr Kurt G.
Published: March 2006

Book notes.
Regional Workshop on the UNESCO Conventions Protecting Cultural
Property: Abuja, Nigeria, November 3–5 2003
Authors: Akintayo John Oluwole A.
Published: March 2006

The closing years of the twentieth century and the early years of
twenty-first century witnessed remarkable developments in the
international attempts to protect the world's cultural heritage. For
instance, in 1999 the Second Protocol to the Convention on the Protection
of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict was adopted. In 2001,
the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage was
adopted whilst 2003 witnessed the adoption of the Convention for the
Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The United Nations
declared 2002, as the UN Year for Cultural Heritage and appointed UNESCO
as its Cultural Agent. There is no gainsaying that the UNESCO was
faithfully committed to this mandate and discharged its responsibilities
satisfactorily. However, the acknowledgment of the fact that lack of
information and inadequate appreciation of the UNESCO Conventions on the
protection of cultural property remained a formidable obstacle to the
realisation of the aspiration of the UN and UNESCO informed the 2003 Abuja
Workshop convened primarily to promote the UNESCO Conventions protecting
Cultural Property. What follows is report on the 2003 Abuja Workshop.
Safety and efficacy of sedation with propofol for transoesophageal echocardiography in children in an outpatient setting
Authors: Mart Christopher R. , Parrish Mitchell , Rosen Kerry L. , Dettorre Michael D. , Ceneviva Gary D. , Lucking Steven E. , Thomas Neal J.
Published: March 2006

Background:Transoesophageal echocardiography has become a powerful tool in the diagnosis and management of children with congenital cardiac malformations. Unlike adults, children will not tolerate transoesophageal echocardiography under light sedation. This study was undertaken, therefore, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of deep sedation with propofol for transoesophageal echocardiography in children examined in an outpatient setting.Methods:This is a retrospective study of patients undergoing transoesophageal echocardiography with propofol given in bolus aliquots to achieve a level of sedation adequate to insert the transoesophageal echocardiographic probe and maintain sedation throughout the procedure.Results:We included a total of 118 patients, 57% being male, with a mean age of 12.9 years. Adequate sedation was achieved using a mean propofol dose of 8.3 milligrams per kilogram, with the dose per kilogram decreasing concomitant with increasing weight of the patient. Patients less than two years of age were intubated for the procedure. There were no clinically significant changes in cardiac function or haemodynamics. Non-intubated patients received supplemental oxygen prior to, or just after, the onset of sedation, with transient hypoxaemia observed in one-fifth. Complications were rare, with minor problems occurring in 7.6%, and major ones in 4%.Conclusions:Transoesophageal echocardiography can be performed on an outpatient basis in children with a wide spectrum of congenital cardiac malformations, and propofol is an ideal sedative agent in this setting. Although not common, preparations must be made for significant haemodynamic and respiratory complications. In our study, we intubated all the children under 2 years of age.
Cardiac resynchronization as therapy for congestive cardiac failure in children dependent on chronic cardiac pacing
Authors: van Beek Eugène , Backx Ad , Singh Sandeep
Published: March 2006

Three patients with heart failure after chronic right ventricular apical pacing were treated with resynchronization. Biventricular pacing was used for two patients, and the other was treated with left univentricular pacing. In all patients, we observed a dramatic improvement of left ventricular dimension, function, and clinical state. We conclude that biventricular or left ventricular pacing is superior to right ventricular apical pacing in children who are pacemaker-dependent.
The distributional impact of climate change on rich and poor countries
Authors: MENDELSOHN ROBERT , DINAR ARIEL , WILLIAMS LARRY
Published: March 2006

This paper examines the impact of climate change on rich and poor countries across the world. We measure two indices of the relative impact of climate across countries, impact per capita, and impact per GDP. These measures sum market impacts across the climate-sensitive economic sectors of each country. Both indices reveal that climate change will have serious distributional impact across countries, grouped by income per capita. We predict that poor countries will suffer the bulk of the damages from climate change. Although adaptation, wealth, and technology may influence distributional consequences across countries, we argue that the primary reason that poor countries are so vulnerable is their location. Countries in the low latitudes start with very high temperatures. Further warming pushes these countries ever further away from optimal temperatures for climate-sensitive economic sectors.
Review of: BRCA1 and cyclin D1: gate keepers in hormone responsive tissues?
Authors: Griekspoor A. , Margarido T. C. , Zwart W. , Michalides R.
Published: March 2006

Citation of original article:

C. Wang et al. Cancer Research 2005; 65(15): 6557–6567.

Abstract of the original article:

The cyclin D1 gene is frequently overexpressed in human breast cancer and is capable of inducing mammary tumorigenesis when overexpressed in transgenic mice. The BRCA1 breast tumor susceptibility gene product inhibits breast cancer cellular growth and the activity of several transcription factors. Herein, cyclin D1 antagonized BRCA1-mediated repression of estrogen receptor α(ERα)-dependent gene expression. Cyclin D1 repression of BRCA1 function was mediated independently of its cyclin-dependent kinase, retinoblastoma protein, or p160 (SRC-1) functions in human breast and prostate cancer cells. In vitro, cyclin D1 competed with BRCA1 for ERα binding. Cyclin D1 and BRCA1 were both capable of binding ERα in a common region of the ERα hinge domain. A novel domain of cyclin D1, predicted to form a helix-loop-helix structure, was required for binding to ERα and for rescue of BRCA1-mediated ERα transcriptional repression. In chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, 17β-estradiol (E2) enhanced ERα and cyclin D1 recruitment to an estrogen response element (ERE). Cyclin D1 expression enhanced ERα recruitment to an ERE. E2 reduced BRCA1 recruitment and BRCA1 expression inhibited E2-induced ERα recruitment at 12 h. Cyclin D1 expression antagonized BRCA1 inhibition of ERα recruitment to an ERE, providing a mechanism by which cyclin D1 antagonizes BRCA1 function at an ERE. As cyclin D1 abundance is regulated by oncogenic and mitogenic signals, the antagonism of the BRCA1-mediated ERα repression by cyclin D1 may contribute to the selective induction of BRCA1-regulated target genes.
Distribution of stress drop, stiffness, and fracture energy over earthquake rupture zones
Authors: Fletcher Jon B. , McGarr A.
Published: March 2006

Using information provided by slip models and the methodology of McGarr and Fletcher (2002), we map static stress drop, stiffness (k = Δσ/u, where Δσ is static stress drop and u is slip), and fracture energy over the slip surface to investigate the earthquake rupture process and energy budget. For the 1994 M6.7 Northridge, 1992 M7.3 Landers, and 1995 M6.9 Kobe earthquakes, the distributions of static stress drop show strong heterogeneity, emphasizing the importance of asperities in the rupture process. Average values of static stress drop are 17, 11, and 4 MPa for Northridge, Landers, and Kobe, respectively. These values are substantially higher than estimates based on simple crack models, suggesting that the failure process involves the rupture of asperities within the larger fault zone. Stress drop as a function of depth for the Northridge and Landers earthquakes suggests that stress drops are limited by crustal strength. For these two earthquakes, regions of high slip are surrounded by high values of stiffness. Particularly for the Northridge earthquake, the prominent patch of high slip in the central part of the fault is bordered by a ring of high stiffness and is consistent with expectations based on the failure of an asperity loaded at its edge due to exterior slip. Stiffness within an asperity is inversely related to its dimensions. Estimates of fracture energy, based on static stress drop, slip, and rupture speed, were used to investigate the nature of slip weakening at four locations near the hypocenter of the Kobe earthquake for comparison with independent results based on a dynamic model of this earthquake. One subfault updip and to the NE of the hypocenter has a fracture energy of 1.1 MJ/m2 and a slip‐weakening distance, Dc, of 0.66 m. Right triangles, whose base and height are Dc and the dynamic stress drop, respectively, approximately overlie the slip‐dependent stress given by Ide and Takeo (1997) for the same locations near the hypocenter. The total fracture energy for the Kobe earthquake, 3.7 × 1014 J, is about the same as the seismic energy (Ea = 3.2 × 1014 J).
A model of episodic melt extraction for plumes
Authors: Schmeling H.
Published: March 2006

A model of melt segregation and extraction within rising plumes is proposed. It is based on two‐phase porous flow within the partially molten region, combined with only three extraction parameters. The conservation equations of mass, momentum, and energy are solved for a two‐phase melt matrix system. As a rising hot mantle region (plume) reaches the asthenosphere, decompression melting occurs, and the melt begins to percolate with respect to the matrix. Accumulation layers form, which might be the locus for the formation of buoyancy‐driven propagating dikes. As dike propagation requires a minimum dike length, melt extraction is parameterized by dex, ϕ1, and ϕ2. Here dex is the critical thickness of the partially molten layer in which a critical melt fraction ϕ2 is exceeded. If this condition is met within a certain region of the melt source region, melt might be extracted from that region in the form of one or several propagating dikes, leaving behind a region of residual melt fraction ϕ1. This simple extraction model is tested in one dimension for rising hot mantle flow. Depending on the chosen extraction parameters, multiple extraction events may be observed with a characteristic episodicity and a saw‐tooth‐like depth distribution. Exploring the parameter space shows that for values of dex and ϕ2 of a few kilometers and a few melt percent, respectively, typical extraction cycles have the order of 103–104 years, and they extract melt volumes per surface area of 50 to several hundred meters each. Tentatively assuming that eruptions are tied to mantle ascent at depth, the model is applied to observed eruption frequencies and multiple extraction depths, and values for ϕ2 of about 2% and dex of 3–5 km are derived.
Role of deep convection in establishing the isotopic composition of water vapor in the tropical transition layer
Authors: Smith Jamison A. , Ackerman Andrew S. , Jensen Eric J. , Toon Owen B.
Published: March 2006

The transport of H2O and HDO within deep convection is investigated with 3‐D large eddy simulations (LES) using bin microphysics. The lofting and sublimation of HDO‐rich ice invalidate the Rayleigh fractionation model of isotopologue distribution within deep convection. Bootstrapping the correlation of the ratio of HDO to H2O (δD) to water vapor mixing ratio (qv) through a sequence of convective events produces non‐Rayleigh correlations resembling observations. These results support two mechanisms for stratospheric entry. Deep convection can inject air with water vapor of stratospheric character directly into the tropical transition layer (TTL). Alternatively, moister air detraining from convection may be dehydrated via cirrus formation in the TTL to produce stratospheric water vapor. Significant production of subsaturated air in the TTL via convective dehydration is not observed in these simulations, nor is it necessary to resolve the stratospheric isotope paradox.
Asymmetric development of magnetospheric storms during magnetic clouds and sheath regions
Authors: Huttunen K. E. J. , Koskinen H. E. J. , Karinen A. , Mursula K.
Published: March 2006

This study examines how the asymmetry in the low‐latitude geomagnetic field evolves during sheath and magnetic cloud domains of interplanetary coronal mass ejections using the Dst, SYMH and ASYH indices. For all investigated storms the station that contributed most to Dst was located in the dusk sector while the smallest disturbance field was concentrated around dawn. We found that sheath region storms are associated with larger morning/afternoon asymmetry than magnetic cloud storms. For sheath storms the station in the dusk sector contributed almost four times as much to Dst as the station in the dawn sector. Furthermore, the disturbance field is strongly variable during sheath storms. The results of this study suggest that for magnetic cloud storms the asymmetry arises mainly from ions drifting on open trajectories whereas in a case of a sheath driven storm the sudden intensifications of the substorm associated current systems add significantly to the asymmetry.
Observed mini‐cold pool off the southern tip of India and its intrusion into the south central Bay of Bengal during summer monsoon season
Authors: Rao R. R. , Girish Kumar M. S. , Ravichandran M. , Samala B. K. , Sreedevi Nandakumar
Published: March 2006

The observed mini‐cold pool (MCP) off the southern tip of India (STI) and its intrusion into the south central Bay of Bengal (BoB) during the summer monsoon season is examined utilizing the available satellite and in situ measurements. The mechanisms that govern the occurrence of this MCP through surface wind field and its curl, net surface heat flux and divergence in the near‐surface circulation (Ekman + geostrophic) are examined. The observed MCP primarily appears to be driven by the upwelling caused by the divergence in the near‐surface circulation. The upwelling results in both shoaling of thermocline and enhanced blooming of chlorophyll‐a. With the progress of the season the sea surface temperature (SST) cooling associated with MCP intrudes into the south central BoB by the Summer Monsoon Current (SMC).
Biogeophysical impacts of cropland management changes on climate
Authors: Lobell D. B. , Bala G. , Duffy P. B.
Published: March 2006

It is well known that expansion of agriculture into natural ecosystems can have important climatic consequences, but changes occurring within existing croplands also have the potential to effect local and global climate. To better understand the impacts of cropland management practices, we used the NCAR CAM3 general circulation model coupled to a slab‐ocean model to simulate climate change under extreme scenarios of irrigation, tillage, and crop productivity. Compared to a control scenario, increases in irrigation and leaf area index and reductions in tillage all have a physical cooling effect by causing increases in planetary albedo. The cooling is most pronounced for irrigation, with simulated local cooling up to ∼8°C and global land surface cooling of 1.3°C. Increases in soil albedo through reduced tillage are found to have a global cooling effect (∼0.2°C) comparable to the biogeochemical cooling from reported carbon sequestration potentials. By identifying the impacts of extreme scenarios at local and global scales, this study effectively shows the importance of considering different aspects of crop management in the development of climate models, analysis of observed climate trends, and design of policy intended to mitigate climate change.