bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the dynamic behavior of a starch foam extrusion process
Authors: Nabar Yogaraj , Narayan Ramani
Published: June 2006

The starch foam extrusion process was modeled as a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) process, and the dynamics of the process were studied as a response to step changes in the input variables such as starch feed rate, screw speed, moisture content (MC), and poly(hydroxy aminoether) (PHAE) feed rate. The responses were modeled as first‐order responses with a time delay. The linearity of the process was determined over a range around the set‐point, and the parameters defining the first‐order system such as gain “K,” time constant “τ,” and dead time “td” were determined in the linear range. The transfer function models can then be used in a predictive computer control system for on‐line fine‐tuning of the operating conditions. This could ensure a consistently high quality product even when low frequency disturbances are present in the system. It was observed that the time constants and the dead times recorded for both the pressure and torque responses did not exhibit significant variation within each manipulated or input variable tested, indicating a dynamic linearity with respect to each manipulated variable. It was also observed that for the same step‐input variations in the manipulated variables, the torque loading on the twin‐screw extruder exhibited a faster response (lower dead time), and also reached a steady state sooner (lower time constant). The MC and screw speed seem to be the most destabilizing variables, as they induce rapid responses in the process variables. The MC in the extruder was, hence, determined to be the most influential factor in the stability of the process, followed by screw speed and starch feed rate. PHAE feed rate was the least significant variable. Multiple step‐input tests were carried out to determine the validity of the principle of superposition. The validity of the principle of superposition implied the linearity of the process in the domain tested. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 101: 3983–3995, 2006
Thermoplastic modification of urea–formaldehyde wood adhesives to improve moisture resistance
Authors: Kim Jae‐Woo , Carlborn Karana , Matuana Laurent M. , Heiden Patricia A.
Published: June 2006

Urea–formaldehyde (UF) resins are prone to hydrolytic degradation, which limits their use to indoor applications. This study examined the modification of UF resin with various thermoplastics as a means to increase the moisture resistance of the adhesive. UF adhesives were modified in situ with various hydrophobic and hydrophilic thermoplastic formulations, using either polar or nonpolar initiators. Unmodified and modified UF resins were characterized in terms of viscosity, pH, and gel time in their prepolymer suspension state. Cured solid UF resin plaques were prepared to isolate moisture sorption effects of the cured UF resin from that of the wood component in composites, which dominates their moisture uptake. Relative crosslink density and moisture sorption tests were run on cured UF resin plaques. Results indicated that viscosity increased after modification in most cases, with higher viscosities resulting from formulations using an acidic (polar) initiator. In all cases, activation energies of the curing reactions of thermoplastic‐modified UF suspensions were lower than the unmodified UF. High relative crosslink density compared to the unmodified UF was found for one sample, which correlated well with lower overall moisture sorption. Higher relative crosslink density of cured UF resin plaques appeared to be an indicator of lower moisture uptake. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 101: 4222–4229, 2006
Effect of natural fibers on thermal and mechanical properties of natural fiber polypropylene composites studied by dynamic mechanical analysis
Authors: Tajvidi Mehdi , Falk Robert H. , Hermanson John C.
Published: June 2006

The present study deals with the effects of natural fibers on thermal and mechanical properties of natural fiber polypropylene composites using dynamic mechanical analysis. Composites of polypropylene and various natural fibers including kenaf fibers, wood flour, rice hulls, and newsprint fibers were prepared at 25 and 50% (by weight) fiber content levels. One and two percent maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene was also used as the compatibilizer for composites containing 25 and 50% fibers, respectively. Specimens for dynamic mechanical analysis tests were cut out of injection‐molded samples and were tested over a temperature range of −60 to +120°C. Frequency of the oscillations was fixed at 1 Hz and the strain amplitude was 0.1%, which was well within the linear viscoelastic region. The heating rate was 2°C/min for all temperature scan tests. Storage modulus (E′), loss modulus (E″), and mechanical loss factor (tan δ) were collected during the test and were plotted versus temperature. An increase in storage and loss moduli and a decrease in the mechanical loss factor were observed for all composites indicating more elastic behavior of the composites as compared with the pure PP. Changes in phase transition temperatures were monitored and possible causes were discussed. Results indicated that glass transition was slightly shifted to lower temperatures in composites. α transition temperature was higher in the case of composites and its intensity was higher as well. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 101: 4341–4349, 2006
Improved outcome in the treatment of pediatric multifocal Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Morimoto Akira , Ikushima Satoshi , Kinugawa Naoko , Ishii Eiichi , Kohdera Urara , Sako Masahiro , Fujimoto Junichiro , Bessho Fumio , Horibe Keizo , Tsunematsu Yukiko , Imashuku Shinsaku ,   for the Japan Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Study Group
Published: June 2006

BACKGROUND.

The treatment outcome of multifocal childhood Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) has not been satisfactory and has resulted in poor therapeutic responses with high mortality and a high incidence of reactivation with late sequelae. To overcome these issues, the Japan LCH Study Group‐96 (JLSG‐96) protocol was conducted prospectively from 1996 to 2001 in Japan.

METHODS.

Newly diagnosed children with multifocal LCH were classified into 2 groups: a single‐system multisite (SS‐m) group and a multisystem (MS) group. All patients initially were treated on Protocol A, which consisted of 6 weeks of induction therapy with combined cytosine arabinoside, vincristine (VCR), and prednisolone (PSL) followed by 6 months of maintenance therapy. Patients who had a poor response to the induction of Protocol A were switched to a salvage regimen (Protocol B), which consisted of an intensive combination of doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, VCR, and PSL.

RESULTS.

In total, 91 patients were treated, including 32 patients in the SS‐m group and 59 patients in the MS group. At the median 5‐year follow‐up, 96.9% of patients in the SS‐m group and 78.0% of patients in the MS group had good response status. Diabetes insipidus developed in 3.1% of patients in the SS‐m group and in 8.9% of patients in the MS group. The overall survival rate at 5 years for the SS‐m and MS groups was 100% and 94.4% ± 3.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS.

The JLSG‐96 protocol attained very low mortality for pediatric patients with multifocal LCH. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Killer cell Ig‐like receptors ligand‐mismatched, alloreactive natural killer cells lyse primary solid tumors
Authors: Re Francesca , Staudacher Carlo , Zamai Loris , Vecchio Viviana , Bregni Marco
Published: June 2006

BACKGROUND.

Donor alloreactive natural killer (NK) cells have a potent antileukemic effect in haploidentical stem cell transplantation. Whether alloreactive NK cells are able to specifically kill fresh tumor cells from primary solid tumors was analyzed.

METHODS.

NK cells were purified from healthy donors for the expression of inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin (Ig)‐like receptors (KIRs), ex vivo expanded, and used as effector cells. Their cytotoxic effect on tumor cells freshly obtained from surgical specimens was assessed by means of a single‐cell cytotoxic assay (SCCA).

RESULTS.

Tumor cells from 1 ovarian, 1 gastric, 3 colon, and 4 renal cell cancers were analyzed and found susceptible to alloreactive NK cell killing (>20% lysis at an effector cell to target cell [E:T] ratio of 10:1 for tumor cells not expressing at least 1 human lymphocyte antigen [HLA] class I KIR‐ligand group). Remarkably, NK cells that recognized specific HLA‐C group mismatches were able to kill HLA‐C KIR ligand‐mismatched tumor cells, whereas no lysis of target cells occurred with KIR ligand‐matched tumor targets.

CONCLUSIONS.

Alloreactive NK‐cell mediated antitumor effects might provide useful insights for designing new cell therapy approaches against solid tumors. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
The prognostic value of hemoglobin change after initiating androgen‐deprivation therapy for newly diagnosed metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Beer Tomasz M. , Tangen Catherine M. , Bland Lisa B. , Hussain Maha , Goldman Bryan H. , DeLoughery Thomas G. , Crawford E. David
Published: June 2006

BACKGROUND.

The objective of this study was to characterize changes in hemoglobin (HGB) levels after the initiation of androgen‐deprivation therapy (ADT) in patients with previously untreated, metastatic prostate cancer who were enrolled in a large clinical trial.

METHODS.

The multivariate associations between 3‐month change in HGB and baseline characteristics were evaluated with a linear regression model. The associations between 3‐month change in HGB level and time‐to‐event outcomes, including overall survival and progression‐free survival, were evaluated by using proportional hazards regression models.

RESULTS.

Quartiles of baseline HGB levels were ≤12.0 g/dL, from 12.1 to 13.7 g/dL, from 13.8 to 14.7 g/dL, and >14.7 g/dL. Overall, 3 months after initiating ADT, the mean HGB level declined 0.54 g/dL (standard deviation [SD], 1.68 g/dL); however, the mean HGB level increased by 0.99 g/dL (SD, 1.83 g/dL) in patients who had baseline HGB levels <12 g/dL and decreased 1.04 g/dL (SD, 1.28 g/dL) in patients who had baseline HGB levels ≥12 g/dL. After adjusting for potential confounders, including baseline HGB level, a decline in HGB after 3 months of ADT was associated independently with shorter survival (hazards ratio [HR], 1.10 per 1 g/dL decline; P = .0035) and shorter progression‐free survival (HR, 1.08 per 1 g/dL decline; P = .013). An unexpected finding was that the effect of baseline HGB on overall and progression‐free survival varied significantly by race.

CONCLUSIONS.

In a sample of men with newly diagnosed, metastatic prostate cancer, a decline in HGB level after 3 months of ADT was associated with shorter survival and progression‐free survival after adjusting for disease status and other baseline covariates. Although race alone was not a strong predictor of death or disease progression, the effect of the baseline HGB level on overall and progression‐free survival varied significantly by race. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
A multi‐layered proximity coupled patch suitable for MMIC integration
Authors: Rowe W. S. T. , Waterhouse R. B.
Published: June 2006

In this paper, the authors present a highly efficient, broadband patch based antenna that is compatible with integrating into Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits. The antenna configuration is a proximity coupled stacked patch structure where the layer between the Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit and the first patch is an inexpensive laminate. The impact of this layer on the performance of the antenna is investigated both theoretically and experimentally. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 48:1899–1902, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com(. DOI 10.1002/mop.21775
Novel coupled folded waveguide resonator filter
Authors: Al‐otaibi Sultan , Hong Jia‐Sheng
Published: June 2006

A novel four‐pole bandpass filter design based on a coupled folded‐waveguide (FWG) resonator structure is presented. A full‐wave simulator has been employed for designing the filter and extracting the related coupling coefficient of each resonator pair. The proposed filter circuit design has been implemented. It has been found that the experimental results of constructed filter are in close agreement with the simulation and theoretical results. This filter also provides a low insertion loss with a much compact size compared with the conventional cavity filters. The theoretical, simulation and experimental results of the coupled FWG filter are presented. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 48: 1846–1850, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.21779
Design and implementation of multilayer coupled‐resonator bandpass filter with harmonics suppression
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Jian , Li Zheng‐Fan
Published: June 2006

In this article, a novel multilayer second‐order coupled‐resonator bandpass filter with harmonics suppression is proposed to improve the stopband characteristics. The proposed filter has been implemented in a five‐layer configuration using multilayer PCB technology. The measured results agree very well with the full‐wave EM simulation, showing more than 35 dB harmonics suppression. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 48: 1779–1781, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.21784
Analysis of characteristics of a U‐slot patch antenna using finite‐difference time‐domain method
Authors: Chen Hsing‐Yi , Chen Shu‐Hsuan
Published: June 2006

The finite‐difference time domain (FDTD) method is successfully used to analyze characteristics of a U‐slot patch antenna without using commercial software packages such as HFSS, IE3D, and CST. The method is proved to be an efficient tool for deep insight studies on complicated patch antennas. Numerical results of return loss, radiation pattern, current distribution, and antenna efficiency are presented. FDTD results are also compared with measurement data and shown to be in good agreement. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 48: 1687–1694, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.21804
Compact autonomous explosive-driven pulsed power system based on a capacitive energy storage charged by a high-voltage shock-wave ferromagnetic generator
Authors: Shkuratov Sergey I. , Talantsev Evgueni F. , Baird Jason , Altgilbers Larry L. , Stults Allen H.
Published: June 2006

A new concept for constructing compact autonomous pulsed power systems is presented. This concept utilizes a high-voltage explosive-driven shock-wave ferromagnetic generator (FMG) as a charging source for capacitive energy storage. It has been experimentally demonstrated that miniature FMGs (22–25cm3 in size and 84–95g in mass) developed for these experiments can be successfully used to charge capacitor banks. The FMGs, containing Nd2Fe14B energy-carrying elements, provided pulsed powers of 35–45kW in times ranging from 10to15μs. A methodology was developed for digital simulation of the operation of the transverse FMG. Experimental results that were obtained are in a good agreement with the results of digital simulations.
Nuclear electric quadrupole moments of Rb from the hyperfine spectrum of RbF
Authors: Cederberg J. , Frodermann E. , Tollerud H. , Huber K. , Bongard M. , Randolph J. , Nitz D.
Published: June 2006

The molecular beam electric resonance technique has been used to examine the hyperfine spectrum of RbF. The Rb nuclear electric quadrupole interaction, the spin-rotation interactions, and tensor and scalar spin-spin interactions have been measured for both Rb isotopes, including their dependence on vibrational and rotational states. Transition frequencies have been determined to a precision of better than 1Hz in many cases. The magnetic interactions in the two isotopomers are consistent with what is expected from the known masses and magnetic dipole moments. In the case of the Rb nuclear electric quadrupole interaction, adjustments have been made for a small isotopomer shift, and for the ratio of the effective nuclear electric quadrupole moments, Q(Rb87)∕Q(Rb85)=0.4838301±0.0000018. The effective quadrupole interaction includes a pseudoquadrupole interaction that may be significant at this level of precision, but cannot be distinguished experimentally.
Water electrolysis activated by Ru nanorod array electrodes
Authors: Kim Seongyul , Koratkar Nikhil , Karabacak Tansel , Lu Toh-Ming
Published: June 2006

Efficient hydrogen production is critical to fuel cell operation. One of the most convenient methods to produce hydrogen is via water electrolysis. However, overpotential losses at the cell electrodes results in poor efficiency. In this study we carried out water electrolysis experiments with ruthenium (Ru) nanorod arrays as the cathode. We show up to 25% reduction in overpotential and 20% reduction in energy consumption by use of the Ru nanorod cathode compared to the planar Ru cathode. We attribute the improvement to the increased active area of the nanostructured electrode which reduces the operating current density of the electrolyzer.
Rhizosphere biology and crop productivity—a review
Authors: Watt M. , Kirkegaard J. A. , Passioura J. B.
Published: June 2006

There is great potential to use the wide genotypic and agronomically induced diversity of root systems and their exuded chemicals to influence rhizosphere biology to benefit crop production. Progress in the areas of pathogens and symbionts in this regard is clear. Further progress, especially related to interactions with non-pathogenic organisms, will rely on an appreciation of the properties of rhizospheres in the field: the spatial and temporal boundaries of these rhizospheres, and the effects of structural, chemical, and physical soil heterogeneity in which the roots and associated microorganisms exist and function. We consider the rhizosphere environment within Australian cropping systems in relation to the likely success of biological interventions, and provide 3 case studies that highlight the need to characterise the rhizosphere and the microbial interactions therein to capture agronomic benefits. New techniques are available that allow direct visualisation and quantification of rhizosphere processes in field conditions. These will no doubt help develop better genetic and agronomic approaches. Future success, as with those in the past, will rely on integrating interventions related to rhizosphere biology with other management constraints of specific farming systems.
Comparative Expression and Distribution of c-fos, Estrogen Receptorα (ERα), and p38α in the Uterus of Rats, Monkeys, and Humans
Authors: Radi Zaher A. , Khan Nasir K.
Published: June 2006

The uterine cellular expression and distribution of c-fos, ERα and p38α was compared in humans, nonhuman primates, and rats using immunohistochemistry. ERα and c-fos were present in the glandular (GE) and luminal epithelial cells (LE) of humans and nonhuman primates, with differing expression patterns evident between proliferative and secretory cycle phases. In rats, the highest and lowest expression of c-fos was present during proestrus and estrus, respectively, in the LE and GE. The most intense ERα staining in rats was observed during proestrus in the GE, while the least intense staining was seen in the LE during proestrus. Strong LE and GE expression of p38α as present in rats in all stages of the estrous cycle and during the proliferative phase in both humans and nonhuman primates. No p38α expression was observed during the secretory phase in either humans or nonhuman primates. Our work suggests that c- fos, ERα and p38α (a) are primarily expressed during the proliferative phase, but not the secretory phase and exhibit interspecies expression variability, and (b) rats exhibit cyclic changes in the expression of c- fos and ERα.
Microclusters of inhibitory killer immunoglobulin–like receptor signaling at natural killer cell immunological synapses
Authors: Treanor Bebhinn , Lanigan Peter M.P. , Kumar Sunil , Dunsby Chris , Munro Ian , Auksorius Egidijus , Culley Fiona J. , Purbhoo Marco A. , Phillips David , Neil Mark A.A. , Burshtyn Deborah N. , French Paul M.W. , Davis Daniel M.
Published: June 2006

We report the supramolecular organization of killer Ig–like receptor (KIR) phosphorylation using a technique applicable to imaging phosphorylation of any green fluorescent protein–tagged receptor at an intercellular contact or immune synapse. Specifically, we use fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) to report Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between GFP-tagged KIR2DL1 and a Cy3-tagged generic anti-phosphotyrosine monoclonal antibody. Visualization of KIR phosphorylation in natural killer (NK) cells contacting target cells expressing cognate major histocompatibility complex class I proteins revealed that inhibitory signaling is spatially restricted to the immune synapse. This explains how NK cells respond appropriately when simultaneously surveying susceptible and resistant target cells. More surprising, phosphorylated KIR was confined to microclusters within the aggregate of KIR, contrary to an expected homogeneous distribution of KIR signaling across the immune synapse. Also, yellow fluorescent protein–tagged Lck, a kinase important for KIR phosphorylation, accumulated in a multifocal distribution at inhibitory synapses. Spatial confinement of receptor phosphorylation within the immune synapse may be critical to how activating and inhibitory signals are integrated in NK cells.
Tsunami: scientific frontiers, mitigation, forecasting and policy implications
Authors: Bernard E.N , Mofjeld H.O , Titov V , Synolakis C.E , González F.I
Published: June 2006

Tsunamis are an ever-present threat to lives and property along the coasts of most of the world's oceans. As the Sumatra tsunami of 26 December 2004 reminded the world, we must be more proactive in developing ways to reduce their impact on our global society. This article provides an overview of the state of knowledge of tsunamis, presents some challenges confronting advances in the field and identifies some promising frontiers leading to a global warning system. This overview is then used to develop guidelines for advancing the science of forecasting, hazard mitigation programmes and the development of public policy to realize a global system. Much of the information on mitigation and forecasting draws upon the development and accomplishments of a joint state/federal partnership that was forged to reduce tsunami hazards along US coastlines—the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Programme. By integrating hazard assessment, warning guidance and mitigation activities, the programme has created a roadmap and a set of tools to make communities more resilient to local and distant tsunamis. Among the tools are forecasting, educational programmes, early warning systems and design guidance for tsunami-resilient communities. Information on international cooperation is drawn from the Global Earth Observing System of Systems (GEOSS). GEOSS provides an international framework to assure international compatibility and interoperability for rapid exchange of data and information.
Hurricane Katrina: an environmental perspective
Authors: McCallum Ewen , Heming Julian
Published: June 2006

On 29 August 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast of the USA to become one of the worst natural disasters in the country's history.

The forecasts and official warnings of the event issued by the US National Hurricane Center up to 60 h ahead were excellent and largely based on an ‘ensemble’ of model and statistical guidance. The Met Office Global Model is highlighted as one of the best performers for Hurricane Katrina.

The active 2005 Atlantic hurricane season has fuelled the debate on the impact of climate change on tropical cyclones. Some recent publications have suggested that this impact is already apparent, while others are more cautious. Inconsistencies remain among many of the theoretical, modelling and observational studies.

Despite the excellent warnings, there was a tragic loss of life as a result of Hurricane Katrina which has led to political questions concerning complex socio-economic issues, the state of flood defences and how to coordinate the reaction to and mitigate the impact of such monumental natural hazards.
Metabolic and regulatory engineering of Serratia marcescens: mimicking phage-mediated horizontal acquisition of antibiotic biosynthesis and quorum-sensing capacities
Authors: Coulthurst Sarah J. , Williamson Neil R. , Harris Abigail K. P. , Spring David R. , Salmond George P. C.
Published: June 2006

Serratia marcescens is an important cause of opportunistic human infections. Many, but not all, strains produce prodigiosin, a secondary metabolic, red-pigment antibiotic, the biosynthesis of which is directed by the pig gene cluster. Quorum sensing (QS) involves the production and detection of chemical signal molecules as a means to regulate gene expression in response to population cell density. Several strains of S. marcescens have previously been shown to possess an N-acyl-l-homoserine lactone (aHSL) QS system. This study aimed to determine the impact of introducing, by phage-mediated horizontal gene transfer, a biosynthetic gene cluster (pig) and a regulatory locus (aHSL QS) into strains lacking the respective trait. The pig cluster from S. marcescens ATCC 274 (Sma 274) was transferred to the non-pigmented strain, S. marcescens strain 12 (Sma 12). In the engineered strain, pigment was expressed and brought under the control of the recipient's native regulatory systems (aHSL QS and luxS). Moreover, transfer of the aHSL locus from Sma 12 to the non-QS Sma 274 resulted in the imposition of aHSL control onto a variety of native traits, including pigment production. In addition, during this study, the QS regulon of the clinical strain, Sma 12, was characterized, and some novel QS-regulated traits in S. marcescens were identified. The results have implications for the evolution and dissemination of biosynthetic and QS loci, illustrating the genetic modularity and ease of acquisition of these traits and the capacity of phages to act as vectors for horizontal gene transfer.
Effect of AmtB homologues on the post-translational regulation of nitrogenase activity in response to ammonium and energy signals in Rhodospirillum rubrum
Authors: Zhang Yaoping , Wolfe David M. , Pohlmann Edward L. , Conrad Mary C. , Roberts Gary P.
Published: June 2006

The AmtB protein transports uncharged NH3 into the cell, but it also interacts with the nitrogen regulatory protein PII, which in turn regulates a variety of proteins involved in nitrogen fixation and utilization. Three PII homologues, GlnB, GlnK and GlnJ, have been identified in the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodospirillum rubrum, and they have roles in at least four overlapping and distinct functions, one of which is the post-translational regulation of nitrogenase activity. In R. rubrum, nitrogenase activity is tightly regulated in response to addition or energy depletion (shift to darkness), and this regulation is catalysed by the post-translational regulatory system encoded by draTG. Two amtB homologues, amtB
1 and amtB
2, have been identified in R. rubrum, and they are linked with glnJ and glnK, respectively. Mutants lacking AmtB1 are defective in their response to both addition and darkness, while mutants lacking AmtB2 show little effect on the regulation of nitrogenase activity. These responses to darkness and appear to involve different signal transduction pathways, and the poor response to darkness does not seem to be an indirect result of perturbation of internal pools of nitrogen. It is also shown that AmtB1 is necessary to sequester detectable amounts GlnJ to the cell membrane. These results suggest that some element of the AmtB1-PII regulatory system senses energy deprivation and a consistent model for the integration of nitrogen, carbon and energy signals by PII is proposed. Other results demonstrate a degree of specificity in interaction of AmtB1 with the different PII homologues in R. rubrum. Such interaction specificity might be important in explaining the way in which PII proteins regulate processes involved in nitrogen acquisition and utilization.
No effects of probiotics on atopic dermatitis in infancy: a randomized placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Brouwer M. L. , Wolt‐Plompen S. A. A. , Dubois A. E. J. , Van Der Heide S. , Jansen D. F. , Hoijer M. A. , Kauffman H. F. , Duiverman E. J.
Published: June 2006

Background
Studies have been performed suggesting that administration of probiotics may have therapeutic and/or preventive benefits in the development of sensitization and atopic disease, particularly in infants with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objective
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and immunological effects of supplementation of a hydrolysed formula with two probiotic strains of bacteria on symptoms of AD in infancy.

Methods
We conducted a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. After 4–6 weeks of baseline and double‐blind, placebo‐controlled challenges for diagnosis of cow's milk allergy (CMA), infants less than 5 months old with AD received a hydrolysed whey‐based formula as placebo (n=17), or supplemented with either Lactobacillus rhamnosus (n=17) or Lactobacillus GG (n=16) for 3 months. Before, during and after intervention, the clinical severity of AD was evaluated using SCORing index Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). Allergic sensitization was evaluated by measurement of total IgE and a panel of food‐specific IgEs as well as skin prick testing for cow's milk. Inflammatory parameters were blood eosinophils, eosinophil protein X in urine, fecal α‐1‐antitrypsin and production of IL‐4, IL‐5 and IFN‐γ by peripheral blood mononuclear cells after polyclonal stimulation.

Results
No statistically significant effects of probiotic supplementation on SCORAD, sensitization, inflammatory parameters or cytokine production between groups were found. Only four infants were diagnosed with CMA.

Conclusion
We found no clinical or immunological effect of the probiotic bacteria used in infants with AD. Our results indicate that oral supplementation with these probiotic bacterial strains will not have a significant impact on the symptoms of infantile AD.
Microbial community related to volatile organic compound (VOC) emission in household biowaste
Authors: Mayrhofer Sabine , Mikoviny Tomas , Waldhuber Sebastian , Wagner Andreas O. , Innerebner Gerd , Franke‐Whittle Ingrid H. , Märk Tilman D. , Hansel Armin , Insam Heribert
Published: June 2006

Malodorous emissions and potentially pathogenic microorganisms which develop during domestic organic waste collection are not only a nuisance but may also pose health risks. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the presence of specific microorganisms in biowastes is directly related to the composition of the emitted volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The succession of microbial communities during 16 days of storage in organic waste collection bins was studied by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of amplified 16S ribosomal DNA in parallel with a classical cultivation and isolation approach. Approximately 60 different bacterial species and 20 different fungal species were isolated. Additionally, some bacterial species were identified through sequencing of excised DGGE bands. Proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR‐MS) was used to detect VOCs over the sampling periods, and co‐inertia analyses of VOC concentrations with DGGE band intensities were conducted. Positive correlations, indicating production of the respective VOC or enhancement of microbial growth, and negative correlations, indicating the use of, or microbial inhibition by the respective compound, were found for the different VOCs. Measurement of the VOC emission pattern from a pure culture of Lactococcus lactis confirmed the positive correlations for the protonated masses 89 (tentatively identified as butyric acid), 63 (tentatively identified as dimethylsulfide), 69 (likely isoprene) and 73 (likely butanone).
Gender Inequality and Trade*
Authors: Busse Matthias , Spielmann Christian
Published: June 2006

The paper empirically explores the international linkages between gender inequality and trade flows of a sample of 92 developed and developing countries. The focus is on comparative advantage in labor‐intensive manufactured goods. The results indicate that gender wage inequality is positively associated with comparative advantage in labor‐intensive goods, i.e. countries with a larger gender wage gap have higher exports of these goods. Also, gender inequality in labor force activity rates and educational attainment rates are negatively linked with comparative advantage in labor‐intensive commodities.
Effect of fresh‐frozen plasma transfusion on prothrombin time and bleeding in patients with mild coagulation abnormalities
Authors: Abdel‐Wahab Omar I. , Healy Brian , Dzik Walter H.
Published: June 2006

BACKGROUND: Fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) is frequently transfused to patients with mild prolongation of coagulation values under the assumption that FFP will correct the coagulopathy. There is little evidence to support this practice, however. To determine the effect of FFP on coagulation variables and correlation with bleeding in patients with mildly prolonged coagulation values, a prospective audit of all FFP transfusions at the Massachusetts General Hospital between September 2, 2004, and September 30, 2005, was performed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: All patients transfused with FFP for a pretransfusion prothrombin time (PT) between 13.1 and 17 seconds (international normalized ratio [INR], 1.1‐1.85) and with a follow‐up PT‐INR within 8 hours of transfusion were included. Of 1091 units of FFP transfused, follow‐up coagulation values within 8 hours were available for 121 patients (324 units).

RESULTS: Transfusion of FFP resulted in normalization of PT‐INR values in 0.8 percent of patients (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.0020‐0.045) and decreased the PT‐INR value halfway to normalization in 15.0 percent of patients (95% CI, 0.097‐0.225). Median decrease in PT was 0.20 seconds (median decrease in INR, 0.07). Pretransfusion PT‐INR, partial thromboplastin time, platelet count, and creatinine values had no correlation with red blood cell loss.

CONCLUSION: It is concluded that transfusion of FFP for mild abnormalities of coagulation values results in partial normalization of PT in a minority of patients and fails to correct the PT in 99 percent of patients.
MEAT QUALITY, BACTERIOLOGY AND RETAIL CASE LIFE OF BISON LONGISSIMUS LUMBORUM FOLLOWING SPRAY CHILLING
Authors: JANZ J.A.M. , AALHUS J.L.
Published: June 2006

Spray chilling effectively controls shrink loss during cooling of beef and lamb carcasses. Because subcutaneous fat distribution in bison is nonuniform over the carcass surface, spray chilling may be beneficial for this species as well. We examined the effect of four 60‐s spray cycles/h for 8 h at 2C on bison carcass bacteriology and shrink loss. Longissimus muscles were removed 24 h postmortem and stored in vacuum packages for up to 6 weeks, with retail display for 0–9 days following each storage period. Spray chilling reduced (P < 0.01) cooler shrink loss from bison carcasses. Meat quality, bacteriology and odor acceptability were not substantially affected by chilling treatment; however, retail display of aerobically packaged bison steaks was severely limited by early discoloration, an effect exaggerated where the meat was subject to any period of storage. Further investigation of suitable alternatives for handling and merchandising bison meat should be investigated.
Malignant histiocytosis: a case report of a rare tumour presenting with spontaneous splenic rupture
Authors: Low S E , Stafford J S
Published: June 2006

Malignant histiocytosis is a rare invasive proliferation of neoplastic histiocytes. Cases previously reported as malignant histiocytosis were shown to be lymphomas of T or B lineage, especially anaplastic large-cell lymphomas. A case of malignant histiocytosis is described, in which a patient presenting with symptoms suggestive of pneumonia suddenly deteriorated and died. At autopsy, a large quantity of fresh blood, originating from several ruptured nodules on the enlarged spleen, was seen in the peritoneal cavity. Extensive infiltration by pleomorphic tumour cells and erythrophagocytosis by tumour cells were seen on histological examination of the spleen. Immunohistochemical analysis and staining were carried out. This is the second reported case of malignant histiocytosis presenting with spontaneous splenic rupture.
Diagnostic accuracy of core biopsy for ductal carcinoma in situ and its implications for surgical practice
Authors: Dillon M F , Quinn C M , McDermott E W , O’Doherty A , O’Higgins N , Hill A D K
Published: June 2006

Background:Core biopsy is considered to be a highly accurate method of gaining a preoperative histological diagnosis of breast cancer. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is often impalpable and is a more subtle form of breast cancer.

Aim:To investigate the accuracy of core biopsy in the diagnosis of cancer in patients with DCIS.

Methods:All patients who had invasive cancer (n = 959) or DCIS (n = 92) that was confirmed by excision between 1999 and 2004 were identified. The diagnostic methods, histology of the core biopsy specimen and excision histology were reviewed in detail.

Results:Core biopsy was attempted in 88% (81/92) of patients with DCIS and in 91% (874/959) of those with invasive disease. Of those patients who underwent core biopsy, a diagnosis of carcinoma on the initial core was made in 65% (53/81) of patients with DCIS compared with 92% (800/874) of patients with invasive disease (p<0.0001). Smaller lesion size (p = 0.005) and lower grade (p = 0.03) were associated with increased risk for a negative or non-diagnostic core in patients with DCIS. The nature of the mammographic lesion or the method of biopsy did not affect the probability of an accurate core biopsy. Patients who had a preoperative diagnosis of DCIS by core biopsy had a reoperation rate of 36% compared with 65% of those that did not have a preoperative diagnosis (p = 0.007).

Conclusion:Although core biopsies are highly accurate forms of obtaining a preoperative diagnosis in patients with invasive breast cancer, this is not the case in DCIS. As the number of surgical procedures can be reduced by core biopsy, it is still of considerable value in the management of DCIS.
Neural Crest Stem and Progenitor Cells
Authors: Crane Jennifer F. , Trainor Paul A.
Published: June 2006

Neural crest cells are a multipotent, migratory cell population that generates an astonishingly diverse array of cell types during vertebrate development. These include bones; tendons; neurons; glia; melanocytes; and connective, endocrine, and adipose tissue. With a limited capacity for self-renewal and a wide range of differentiation fates, neural crest cells bear many of the hallmarks of stem cells and persist throughout embryonic and adult development. But are all neural crest cells true stem cells, or do the majority of neural crest cells more closely resemble progenitor cells? In this review we discuss recent advances in characterizing the properties of neural crest cells, together with their potential for tissue-specific repair.
Deletion of Endothelial Cell Endothelin B Receptors Does Not Affect Blood Pressure or Sensitivity to Salt
Authors: Bagnall Alan J. , Kelland Nicholas F. , Gulliver-Sloan Fiona , Davenport Anthony P. , Gray Gillian A. , Yanagisawa Masashi , Webb David J. , Kotelevtsev Yuri V.
Published: June 2006

Endothelin B receptors in different tissues regulate diverse physiological responses including vasoconstriction, vasodilatation, clearance of endothelin-1, and renal tubular sodium reabsorption. To examine the role of endothelial cell endothelin B receptors in these processes, we generated endothelial cell-specific endothelin B receptor knockout mice using a Cre-
loxP
approach. We have demonstrated loss of endothelial cell endothelin B receptor expression and function and preservation of nonendothelial endothelin B receptor-mediated responses through binding and functional assays. Ablation of endothelin B receptors exclusively from endothelial cells produces endothelial dysfunction in the absence of hypertension, with evidence of decreased endogenous release of NO and increased plasma endothelin-1. In contrast to models of total endothelin B receptor ablation, the blood pressure response to a high-salt diet is unchanged in endothelial cell–specific endothelin B receptor knockouts compared with control floxed mice. These findings suggest that the endothelial cell endothelin B receptor mediates a tonic vasodilator effect and that nonendothelial cell endothelin B receptors are important for the regulation of blood pressure.
Thiazide Diuretics, Potassium, and the Development of Diabetes
Authors: Zillich Alan J. , Garg Jay , Basu Sanjib , Bakris George L. , Carter Barry L.
Published: June 2006

National guidelines and a recent clinical trial have supported the use of thiazide diuretics as the preferred initial pharmacological treatment for hypertension. However, evidence from this and other clinical trials have also found an increased incidence of new onset diabetes among those patients receiving thiazide diuretics. The mechanisms responsible for the increased incidence of diabetes with thiazide diuretics have not been fully elucidated. This article provides a review of intervention studies that included data on the relation between thiazide-induced hypokalemia and glucose intolerance. We conducted a literature search from 1966 to June 2004 to identify clinical trials using thiazide diuretics where the metabolic effects on potassium and glucose are reported. A total of 59 clinical trials constituting 83 thiazide diuretic study arms were identified. Trial size, length, type of thiazide diuretic, and dose varied substantially among the studies. The association between average changes in potassium and glucose in the study arms is considered jointly in a weighted statistical model. The Pearson’s correlation coefficient, weighted by study sample size, for the relationship between glucose and potassium was −0.54 (95% CI, −0.67 to −0.36;
P
<0.01). A sensitivity analysis, which considered subset analyses and effect of covariates, as well as inverse-variance weighting, supported this finding. These data suggest that thiazide-induced hypokalemia is associated with increased blood glucose. Treatment of thiazide-induced hypokalemia may reverse glucose intolerance and possibly prevent the future development of diabetes.
Effect of Cardiac Resynchronization on the Incidence of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Severe Heart Failure
Authors: Hoppe Uta C. , Casares Jaime M. , Eiskjær Hans , Hagemann Arne , Cleland John G.F. , Freemantle Nick , Erdmann Erland
Published: June 2006

Background—

Atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) and heart failure often coexist; however, the effect of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on the incidence of AF and on the outcome of patients with new-onset AF remains undefined.

Methods and Results—

In the CArdiac REsynchronisation in Heart Failure (CARE-HF) trial, 813 patients with moderate or severe heart failure were randomly assigned to pharmacological therapy alone or with the addition of CRT. The incidence of AF was assessed by adverse event reporting and by ECGs during follow-up, and the impact of new-onset AF on the outcome and efficacy of CRT was evaluated. By the end of the study (mean duration of follow-up 29.4 months), AF had been documented in 66 patients in the CRT group compared with 58 who received medical therapy only (16.1% versus 14.4%; hazard ratio 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 0.73 to 1.50;
P
=0.79). There was no difference in the time until first onset of AF between groups. Mortality was higher in patients who developed AF, but AF was not a predictor in the multivariable model (hazard ratio 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.82 to 1.67;
P
=0.37). In patients with new-onset AF, CRT significantly reduced the risk for all-cause mortality and all other predefined end points and improved ejection fraction and symptoms (no interaction between AF and CRT; all
P
>0.2).

Conclusions—

Although CRT did not reduce the incidence of AF, CRT improved the outcome regardless of whether AF developed.
Bosentan Therapy in Patients With Eisenmenger Syndrome
Authors: Galiè Nazzareno , Beghetti Maurice , Gatzoulis Michael A. , Granton John , Berger Rolf M.F. , Lauer Andrea , Chiossi Eleonora , Landzberg Michael
Published: June 2006

Background—

Eisenmenger syndrome is characterized by the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension with consequent intracardiac right-to-left shunt and hypoxemia in patients with preexisting congenital heart disease. Because Eisenmenger syndrome is associated with increased endothelin expression, patients may benefit from endothelin receptor antagonism. Theoretically, interventions that have some effect on the systemic vascular bed could worsen the shunt and increase hypoxemia.

Methods and Results—

The Bosentan Randomized Trial of Endothelin Antagonist Therapy-5 (BREATHE-5) was a 16-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the effect of bosentan, a dual endothelin receptor antagonist, on systemic pulse oximetry (primary safety end point) and pulmonary vascular resistance (primary efficacy end point) in patients with World Health Organization functional class III Eisenmenger syndrome. Hemodynamics were assessed by right- and left-heart catheterization. Secondary end points included exercise capacity assessed by 6-minute walk distance, additional hemodynamic parameters, functional capacity, and safety. Fifty-four patients were randomized 2:1 to bosentan (n=37) or placebo (n=17) for 16 weeks. The placebo-corrected effect on systemic pulse oximetry was 1.0% (95% confidence interval, −0.7 to 2.8), demonstrating that bosentan did not worsen oxygen saturation. Compared with placebo, bosentan reduced pulmonary vascular resistance index (−472.0 dyne · s · cm
−5
;
P
=0.0383). The mean pulmonary arterial pressure decreased (−5.5 mm Hg;
P
=0.0363), and the exercise capacity increased (53.1 m;
P
=0.0079). Four patients discontinued as a result of adverse events, 2 (5%) in the bosentan group and 2 (12%) in the placebo group.

Conclusions—

In this first placebo-controlled trial in patients with Eisenmenger syndrome, bosentan was well tolerated and improved exercise capacity and hemodynamics without compromising peripheral oxygen saturation.