bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of scaling effects on designing for power efficiency of a micropreconcentrator
Authors: Cook K. A. , Sastry A. M.
Published: April 2005

Rapid and reliable assessment of volatile and semivolatile organic compounds in the environment using gas chromatography (GC) is often limited by cost of analysis, and time delays between sampling and analysis. Many environmental monitors incorporating GC systems are too large for portability, and lack sufficient sensitivity and/or selectivity to serve as practical environmental monitors. Frequently, a complete system redesign, due to nonlinear power scaling relative to component size, is required to reduce the mass and volume of power supplies, especially for the micro-systems of present interest. Here, we examined four strategies in reducing power demand by the largest consumer of power in a model micro GC, the preconcentrator. Our simulations included alterations in heater pad placement/size, reduction of thermal mass in the device, vacuum sealing, and incorporation of a gas dwell time during preconcentrator heating. Our numerical results were in general agreement with experimental findings in simpler systems, in terms of the benefits of vacuum sealing. The greatest reductions in power demand were achieved with vacuum sealing (51%) and reductions in thermal mass (15%). Future work will address structural and materials issues involved in reduction of thermal mass, and also optimization of power supplies required to meet the multilevel power demands of these complex microelectromechanical systems.
Speed of Sound Using Lissajous Figures
Authors: Berg Richard E. , Brill Dieter R.
Published: April 2005

Demonstration of the speed of sound in air is a classic component of the general physics curriculum. This demonstration uses a sine wave from an audio oscillator and the same signal picked up by a movable microphone to produce Lissajous figures and determine the speed of sound.
“Lowfalutin” Learning List
Authors: Brown Robert
Published: April 2005

The first thing Robert Brown, institute professor at Case Western Reserve University, wants to tell young teachers is that even after spending three and a half decades teaching (following almost a decade of taking classes himself), there's no end to the fun. The second thing is that there's also no end to the predicaments. He alluded to some of these in a lecture given on the occasion of receiving the national 2004 AAPT Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award.
How About a Magnet and a Paper Clip?
Authors: Pfister Hans
Published: April 2005

Physics education research shows that many introductory physics students have difficulties fully grasping Newton's third law.1 This is exacerbated when we ask for the validity of Newton's third law in areas outside of mechanics, such as electrostatics or magnetostatics. Undoubtedly, there is a difference between hearing about something and actually seeing or feeling it. Students can be told that two forces are equal and opposite but this by no means implies that they are convinced this is indeed the case. Some students respond with the correct answer but still harbor a remnant of doubt that the forces might not be the same.
Bacillus subtilis
Paraquat Resistance Is Directed by σ
M
, an Extracytoplasmic Function Sigma Factor, and Is Conferred by YqjL and BcrC
Authors: Cao Min , Moore Charles M. , Helmann John D.
Published: April 2005

A
Bacillus subtilis sigM
null mutant, lacking the extracytoplasmic function σ
M
protein, was sensitive to paraquat (PQ), a superoxide-generating reagent, but not to the redox stress-inducing compounds hydrogen peroxide, cumene hydroperoxide,
t
-butyl hydroperoxide, or diamide. Surprisingly, a
sigM
mutant was only sensitive to superoxide-generating compounds with a dipyridyl ring such as PQ, ethyl viologen, benzyl viologen, and diquat but not to menadione, plumbagin, pyrogallol, or nitrofurantoin. Mutational analysis of candidate σ
M
-regulated genes revealed that both YqjL, a putative hydrolase, and BcrC, a bacitracin resistance protein, were involved in PQ resistance. Expression of
yqjL
, but not
bcrC
, from a xylose-inducible promoter restored PQ resistance to the
sigM
mutant.
Changes in the Extracellular Proteome Caused by the Absence of the
bldA
Gene Product, a Developmentally Significant tRNA, Reveal a New Target for the Pleiotropic Regulator AdpA in
Streptomyces coelicolor
Authors: Kim Dae-Wi , Chater Keith , Lee Kye-Joon , Hesketh Andy
Published: April 2005

The extracellular proteome of
Streptomyces coelicolor
grown in a liquid medium was analyzed by using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight peptide mass fingerprint analysis. Culture supernatants became protein rich only after rapid growth had been completed, supporting the idea that protein secretion is largely a stationary phase phenomenon. Out of about 600 protein spots observed, 72 were characterized. The products of 47 genes were identified, with only 11 examples predicted to be secreted proteins. Mutation in
bldA
, previously known to impair the stationary phase processes of antibiotic production and morphological differentiation, also induced changes in the extracellular proteome, revealing even greater pleiotropy in the
bldA
phenotype than previously known. Four proteins increased in abundance in the
bldA
mutant, while the products of 11 genes, including four secreted proteins, were severely down-regulated. Although
bldA
encodes the only tRNA capable of efficiently translating the rare UUA (leucine) codon, none of the latter group of genes contains an in-frame TTA. SCO0762, a serine-protease inhibitor belonging to the
Streptomyces
subtilisin inhibitor family implicated in differentiation in other streptomycetes, was completely absent from the
bldA
mutant. This dependence was shown to be mediated via the TTA-containing regulatory gene
adpA
, also known as
bldH
, a developmental gene that is responsible for the effects of
bldA
on differentiation. Mutation of the SCO0762 gene abolished detectable trypsin-protease inhibitory activity but did not result in any obvious morphological defects.
Why Does
Escherichia coli
Grow More Slowly on Glucosamine than on
N
-Acetylglucosamine? Effects of Enzyme Levels and Allosteric Activation of GlcN6P Deaminase (NagB) on Growth Rates
Authors: Álvarez-Añorve Laura I. , Calcagno Mario L. , Plumbridge Jacqueline
Published: April 2005

Wild-type
Escherichia coli
grows more slowly on glucosamine (GlcN) than on
N
-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) as a sole source of carbon. Both sugars are transported by the phosphotransferase system, and their 6-phospho derivatives are produced. The subsequent catabolism of the sugars requires the allosteric enzyme glucosamine-6-phosphate (GlcN6P) deaminase, which is encoded by
nagB
, and degradation of GlcNAc also requires the
nagA
-encoded enzyme,
N
-acetylglucosamine-6-phosphate (GlcNAc6P) deacetylase. We investigated various factors which could affect growth on GlcN and GlcNAc, including the rate of GlcN uptake, the level of induction of the
nag
operon, and differential allosteric activation of GlcN6P deaminase. We found that for strains carrying a wild-type deaminase (
nagB
) gene, increasing the level of the NagB protein or the rate of GlcN uptake increased the growth rate, which showed that both enzyme induction and sugar transport were limiting. A set of point mutations in
nagB
that are known to affect the allosteric behavior of GlcN6P deaminase in vitro were transferred to the
nagB
gene on the
Escherichia coli
chromosome, and their effects on the growth rates were measured. Mutants in which the substrate-induced positive cooperativity of NagB was reduced or abolished grew even more slowly on GlcN than on GlcNAc or did not grow at all on GlcN. Increasing the amount of the deaminase by using a
nagC
or
nagA
mutation to derepress the
nag
operon improved growth. For some mutants, a
nagA
mutation, which caused the accumulation of the allosteric activator GlcNAc6P and permitted allosteric activation, had a stronger effect than
nagC
. The effects of the mutations on growth in vivo are discussed in light of their in vitro kinetics.
Functional Characterization of WaaL, a Ligase Associated with Linking O-Antigen Polysaccharide to the Core of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Abeyrathne Priyanka D. , Daniels Craig , Poon Karen K. H. , Matewish Mauricia J. , Lam Joseph S.
Published: April 2005

The O antigen of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
B-band lipopolysaccharide is synthesized by assembling O-antigen-repeat units at the cytoplasmic face of the inner membrane by nonprocessive glycosyltransferases, followed by polymerization on the periplasmic face. The completed chains are covalently attached to lipid A core by the O-antigen ligase, WaaL. In
P. aeruginosa
the process of ligating these O-antigen molecules to lipid A core is not clearly defined, and an O-antigen ligase has not been identified until this study. Using the sequence of
waaL
from
Salmonella enterica
as a template in a BLAST search, a putative
waaL
gene was identified in the
P. aeruginosa
genome. The candidate gene was amplified and cloned, and a chromosomal knockout of PAO1
waaL
was generated. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from this mutant is devoid of B-band O-polysaccharides and semirough (SR-LPS, or core-plus-one O-antigen). The mutant PAO1
waaL
is also deficient in the production of A-band polysaccharide, a homopolymer of
d
-rhamnose. Complementation of the mutant with pPAJL4 containing
waaL
restored the production of both A-band and B-band O antigens as well as SR-LPS, indicating that the knockout was nonpolar and
waaL
is required for the attachment of O-antigen repeat units to the core. Mutation of
waaL
in PAO1 and PA14, respectively, could be complemented with
waaL
from either strain to restore wild-type LPS production. The
waaL
mutation also drastically affected the swimming and twitching motilities of the bacteria. These results demonstrate that
waaL
in
P. aeruginosa
encodes a functional O-antigen ligase that is important for cell wall integrity and motility of the bacteria.
RNase/Anti-RNase Activities of the BacterialparDToxin-Antitoxin System
Authors: Muñoz-Gómez Ana J. , Lemonnier Marc , Santos-Sierra Sandra , Berzal-Herranz Alfredo , Díaz-Orejas Ramón
Published: April 2005

The bacterialparDtoxin-antitoxin system of plasmid R1 encodes two proteins, the Kid toxin and its cognate antitoxin, Kis. Kid cleaves RNA and inhibits protein synthesis and cell growth inEscherichia coli. Here, we show that Kid promotes RNA degradation and inhibition of protein synthesis in rabbit reticulocyte lysates. These new activities of the Kid toxin were counteracted by the Kis antitoxin and were not displayed by the KidR85W variant, which is nontoxic inE. coli. Moreover, while Kid cleaved single- and double-stranded RNA with a preference for UAA or UAC triplets, KidR85W maintained this sequence preference but hardly cleaved double-stranded RNA. Kid was formerly shown to inhibit DNA replication of the ColE1 plasmid. Here we provide in vitro evidence that Kid cleaves the ColE1 RNA II primer, which is required for the initiation of ColE1 replication. In contrast, KidR85W did not affect the stability of RNA II, nor did it inhibit the in vitro replication of ColE1. Thus, the endoribonuclease and the cytotoxic and DNA replication-inhibitory activities of Kid seem tightly correlated. We propose that the spectrum of action of this toxin extends beyond the sole inhibition of protein synthesis to control a broad range of RNA-regulated cellular processes.
The Genome of S-PM2, a “Photosynthetic” T4-Type Bacteriophage That Infects Marine
Synechococcus
Strains
Authors: Mann Nicholas H. , Clokie Martha R. J. , Millard Andrew , Cook Annabel , Wilson William H. , Wheatley Peter J. , Letarov Andrey , Krisch H. M.
Published: April 2005

Bacteriophage S-PM2 infects several strains of the abundant and ecologically important marine cyanobacterium
Synechococcus
. A large lytic phage with an isometric icosahedral head, S-PM2 has a contractile tail and by this criterion is classified as a myovirus (1). The linear, circularly permuted, 196,280-bp double-stranded DNA genome of S-PM2 contains 37.8% G+C residues. It encodes 239 open reading frames (ORFs) and 25 tRNAs. Of these ORFs, 19 appear to encode proteins associated with the cell envelope, including a putative S-layer-associated protein. Twenty additional S-PM2 ORFs have homologues in the genomes of their cyanobacterial hosts. There is a group I self-splicing intron within the gene encoding the D1 protein. A total of 40 ORFs, organized into discrete clusters, encode homologues of T4 proteins involved in virion morphogenesis, nucleotide metabolism, gene regulation, and DNA replication and repair. The S-PM2 genome encodes a few surprisingly large (e.g., 3,779 amino acids) ORFs of unknown function. Our analysis of the S-PM2 genome suggests that many of the unknown S-PM2 functions may be involved in the adaptation of the metabolism of the host cell to the requirements of phage infection. This hypothesis originates from the identification of multiple phage-mediated modifications of the host's photosynthetic apparatus that appear to be essential for maintaining energy production during the lytic cycle.
Molecular Determinants for PspA-Mediated Repression of the AAA Transcriptional Activator PspF
Authors: Elderkin Sarah , Bordes Patricia , Jones Susan , Rappas Mathieu , Buck Martin
Published: April 2005

TheEscherichia coliphage shock protein system (pspABCDEoperon andpspGgene) is induced by numerous stresses related to the membrane integrity state. Transcription of thepspgenes requires the RNA polymerase containing the σ54subunit and the AAA transcriptional activator PspF. PspF belongs to an atypical class of σ54AAA activators in that it lacks an N-terminal regulatory domain and is instead negatively regulated by another regulatory protein, PspA. PspA therefore represses its own expression. The PspA protein is distributed between the cytoplasm and the inner membrane fraction. In addition to its transcriptional inhibitory role, PspA assists maintenance of the proton motive force and protein export. Several lines of in vitro evidence indicate that PspA-PspF interactions inhibit the ATPase activity of PspF, resulting in the inhibition of PspF-dependent gene expression. In this study, we characterize sequences within PspA and PspF crucial for the negative effect of PspA upon PspF. Using a protein fragmentation approach, we show that the integrity of the three putative N-terminal α-helical domains of PspA is crucial for the role of PspA as a negative regulator of PspF. A bacterial two-hybrid system allowed us to provide clear evidence for an interaction inE. colibetween PspA and PspF in vivo, which strongly suggests that PspA-directed inhibition of PspF occurs via an inhibitory complex. Finally, we identify a single PspF residue that is a binding determinant for PspA.
Identification and Characterization of Genes Required for Competence in
Neisseria meningitidis
Authors: Sun Yao-Hui , Exley Rachel , Li Yanwen , Goulding David , Tang Christoph
Published: April 2005

We have identified genes required for competence of
Neisseria meningitidis
, a naturally transformable human pathogen. Although not comprehensive, our analysis identified competence-defective mutants with transposon insertions in genes not previously implicated in this process in
Neisseria
.
The use of biomarkers of exposure ofN,N-dimethylformamide in health risk assessment and occupational hygiene in the polyacrylic fibre industry
Authors: Käfferlein H U , Ferstl C , Burkhart-Reichl A , Hennebrüder K , Drexler H , Brüning T , Angerer J
Published: April 2005

Background:N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) was recently prioritised for field studies by the National Toxicology Program based on the potency of its reproductive toxic effects.

Aims:To measure accurately exposure to DMF in occupational settings.

Methods:In 35 healthy workers employed in the polyacrylic fibre industry,N-methylformamide (NMF) andN-acetyl-S-(N-methylcarbamoyl)cysteine (AMCC) in urine, andN-methylcarbamoylated haemoglobin (NMHb) in blood were measured. Workplace documentation and questionnaire information were used to categorise workers in groups exposed to low, medium, and high concentrations of DMF.

Results:All three biomarkers can be used to identify occupational exposure to DMF. However, only the analysis of NMHb could accurately distinguish between workers exposed to different concentrations of DMF. The median concentrations were determined to be 55.1, 122.8, and 152.6 nmol/g globin in workers exposed to low, medium, and high concentrations of DMF, respectively. It was possible by the use of NMHb to identify all working tasks with increased exposure to DMF. While fibre crimpers were found to be least exposed to DMF, persons washing, dyeing, or towing the fibres were found to be highly exposed to DMF. In addition, NMHb measurements were capable of uncovering working tasks, which previously were not associated with increased exposure to DMF; for example, the person preparing the fibre forming solution.

Conclusions:Measurement of NMHb in blood is recommended rather than measurement of NMF and AMCC in urine to accurately assess exposure to DMF in health risk assessment. However, NMF and AMCC are useful biomarkers for occupational hygiene intervention. Further investigations regarding toxicity of DMF should focus on highly exposed persons in the polyacrylic fibre industry. Additional measurements in occupational settings other than the polyacrylic fibre industry are also recommended, since the population at risk and the production volume of DMF are high.
Blood lead and erythrocyte protoporphyrin levels in association with smoking and personal hygienic behaviour among lead exposed workers
Authors: Karita K , Nakao M , Ohwaki K , Yamanouchi Y , Nishikitani M , Nomura K , Sato M , Yano E
Published: April 2005

Aims:To investigate the effects of smoking and personal hygienic behaviour on blood lead (BPb) and free erythrocyte protoporphyrin levels (FEP) in lead exposed workers.

Methods:Subjects were 105 lead exposed male workers in a battery recycling plant during the years 2000–03. BPb and FEP were measured as part of the ongoing occupational surveillance. Each worker completed a questionnaire for assessment of smoking and four measures of personal hygienic behaviour (glove and mask use, hand and face washing before meals during working hours).

Results:Statistically significant decreases in mean BPb and FEP occurred during the three years. The proportion of BPb reduction in the non-smoking workers was significantly higher (mean 24.3%) than in the smoking workers (15.3%). When the workers were classified into three groups (excellent, good, and poor) based on the four personal hygienic behavioural indicators, the greatest decreases of BPb and FEP were observed in the non-smoking workers of the excellent group.

Conclusions:The consistent use of protection devices and cleanliness at work appeared to contribute to the lowering of BPb and FEP. Cessation of smoking in the workplace was also of importance.
REAL-TIME MACHINING QUALITY INSPECTION FOR DESIGN FOR MANUFACTURING (DFM)
Authors: KWON YONGJIN , WU TERESA
Published: April 2005

A dynamic, globalized and customer-driven market brings opportunities and threats to companies, depending on the response speed and production strategies. One strategy is Concurrent Engineering (CE) that focuses on improving the product development process, by considering various factors associated with the life cycle of the product from the early stages of the product design. Design for Manufacturing (DFM) has proven to be an effective approach to implement CE concept. Recently, an important DFM concept in machining (i.e. a real-time inspection) has drawn much attention from both academia and industry. This is because intense domestic and international competition has put more emphasis on the part quality to achieve a shorter inspection time, improved part accuracies, and reduced scrap. The current methodology, using a machine mounted touch probe, suffers from the fact that the measurement accuracy is affected by the individual machine tool's positional accuracy and positioning system. To address this concern, the cutting experiments were conducted to collect touch probe measurement data. The data were analyzed to verify whether using a touch probe is suitable for real-time inspection. The analysis results show the touch probe has the higher capability index numbers and consistencies than the coordinate measuring machine (CMM), suggesting that the touch probe can be integrated into DFM as a means of real-time quality inspection.
INTEGRATION OF ENGINEERING AND PRODUCTION PLANNING WORKFLOWS
Authors: BAUER THOMAS , BEUTER THOMAS , WEITNER MICHAEL , BÄR THOMAS
Published: April 2005

To improve the total product development process, engineering and production planning processes have to be integrated into one overall workflow. These processes are performed in different application systems, partially with workflow support (e.g. Enovia Workflow) and partially without (e.g. Manufacturing Hub). In order to achieve higher process reliability and performance as well as continuous information flow, the overall workflow shall be controlled by a general-purpose workflow management system (WfMS). Thus, the overall workflow may serve as a base for monitoring, reporting, and process visualization with the goal of managing the workflow execution. In this paper, we present a general approach that realizes the control of the overall workflow in conjunction with the execution of local workflow fragments by heterogeneous application systems. This approach is used to integrate the Dassault Systemes products Enovia V5 and Manufacturing Hub into an overall workflow controlled by the IBM WBI Workflow component. The paper describes how such an integration can be realized for these systems.
The Relation between Homocysteine and Calcific Aortic Valve Stenosis
Authors: Gunduz Huseyin , Arinc Huseyin , Tamer Ali , Akdemir Ramazan , Ozhan Hakan , Binak Emrah , Uyan Cihangir
Published: April 2005

Background: In patients diagnosed with calcific aortic valve stenosis, cardiac risk factors are similar to those of coronary artery disease; homocysteine concentration is an independent risk factor for coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between plasma homocysteine levels and aortic valve stenosis and the influence of homocysteine levels on the coexistence of coronary artery disease in patients with moderate to severe aortic valve stenosis. Methods: Fifty-eight patients who had been diagnosed with moderate to severe aortic stenosis formed the test group of this study, and 47 healthy subjects without coronary artery disease or aortic valve stenosis formed the control group. The patients with aortic stenosis were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of coronary artery disease in their coronary angiograms. After 12 h fasting venous blood samples were collected and total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides and homocysteine levels were measured and compared between the two groups. Measurements and Results: The mean blood homocysteine level was 10.8 ± 3.3 µmol/l in patients with aortic valve stenosis and 8.1 ± 4.7 µmol/l in the control group; the difference between these levels was statistically insignificant. The patients with aortic valve stenosis had significantly higher levels of total cholesterol and hypertension and were more likely to have a positive family history for coronary artery disease. When the two subgroups of patients with aortic valve stenosis were compared, mean blood homocysteine levels were 13.2 ± 3.1 and 8.3 ± 2.2 µmol/l, respectively, showing significantly higher levels in the group with coronary artery disease. In this comparison patients with coronary artery disease were also found to have significantly higher levels of total cholesterol and LDL and they were more likely to be smokers. Conclusions: Although there was no relation between blood homocysteine levels and the existence of aortic valve stenosis, in cases with both coronary heart disease and aortic stenosis homocysteine levels were significantly higher than in the patients with pure aortic valve stenosis.
Comparison of Critical Closing Pressures Extracted from Carotid Tonometry and Finger Plethysmography
Authors: Hsu Hung-Yi , Chao A-Ching , Chen Ying-Tsung , Wong Wen-Jang , Chern Chang-Ming , Hsu Li-Chi , Kuo Jon-Son , Hu Han-Hwa
Published: April 2005

Background: The reliability of critical closing pressure (CrCP) estimates derived from peripheral blood pressure (BP) measurements is unclear. We attempted to evaluate the influences of peripheral circulation on determining CrCP. Methods: Twenty-five young healthy volunteers were studied. BP waves were obtained with plethysmography (Portapres) and carotid applanatory tonometry, respectively, for analysis. Transcranial Doppler was used to monitor cerebral flow velocity. Using linear regression analysis, beat-to-beat CrCP was calculated at rest, during voluntary hyperventilation and during 5% CO2 inhalation. Results: Twenty of 25 participants demonstrating satisfactory tonometric tracings for both tests were included in the analysis. The systolic BP measured using plethysmography was higher than that derived from tonometry (139.4 ± 24.7 vs. 105.5 ± 29.6, p < 0.001). CrCP values derived from tonometry were all positive and higher than CrCP values derived from plethysmography (62.9 ± 19.9 vs. 11.1 ± 17.8, p < 0.001). The changes in CrCP induced by 5% CO2 inhalation and hyperventilation had a correlation between two BP monitoring methods (r = 0.52, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Pressure waveform is an important determinant in calculating CrCP by linear regression analysis. The relative changes in CrCP induced by hemodynamic challenges remained a relevant indicator of cerebrovascular regulation regardless of the methods used for non-invasive BP recording.
New Approach for Laparoscopic Surgery of the Right Colon
Authors: Kawahara Hidejiro , Hirai Katsuya , Watanabe Kazuhiro , Kashiwagi Hideyuki , Yamazaki Yoji , Yanaga Katsuhiko
Published: April 2005

Background: In patients in whom the ventral aspect of the root of the mesentery was obscured by the adherent greater omentum, laparoscopic surgery is usually abandoned. To forcefully loosen the adhesions by a laparoscopic maneuver may cause inadvertent intestinal injury. We describe a procedure, named the ‘retromesen teric approach’, which enables a safe laparoscopic right-sided colic operation in such circumstances. Patients and Methods: From 2000 to 2003 in our institute, a laparoscopic right-sided colic operation was performed in 21 patients in whom the ventral aspect of the root of the mesentery was obscured by the adherent greater omentum using the retromesenteric approach (RMA; n = 16) and a conventional approach (CA; n = 5). We reviewed the medical records for the operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, conversion rates and postoperative complications. Results: The duration of operation in the RMA group ranged from 75 to 120 (median 95) min, which was shorter than that in the CA group (p < 0.05). Perioperative bleeding in the RMA group ranged from 0 to 115 (median 30) ml, which was smaller than that in the CA group (p < 0.05). No conversion and no postoperative complications were noted in the both groups. Conclusions: Our new technique, in which the right colon and the ileum are dissected and lifted en bloc from the retroperitoneum, is safe and useful for laparoscopic right-sided colic operation.
Association of Body Mass Index and Obesity Measured in Early Childhood With Risk of Coronary Heart Disease and Stroke in Middle Age
Authors: Lawlor Debbie A. , Leon David A.
Published: April 2005

Background—

There is concern that the childhood epidemic of obesity will result in increases in the risk of cardiovascular disease in the future; however, there is currently little direct evidence on this issue.

Methods and Results—

We assessed the association of body mass index, measured when subjects were a mean age of 4.9 years old, with the future risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke in a large Scottish birth cohort (born in the 1950s) who have been linked to hospital admissions and mortality data. At the start of the follow-up period (1981), there were 11 106 (91%) members of the cohort alive and believed to be resident in Scotland. Over the follow-up period, they contributed 245 000 person-years of risk. Among these subjects, there were 302 (53 fatal) cases of CHD, 109 (4 fatal) cases of stroke, and 397 (57 fatal) cases of either a CHD or stroke. There was no association between childhood body mass index and CHD risk. There was no linear association between childhood body mass index and stroke risk, but those who were obese in childhood (top 2.5% of the body mass index distribution) compared with all others had an increased risk of stroke; the adjusted (for gender, father’s occupational social class at birth, number of siblings, and birth weight) hazards ratio was 2.41 (95% CI 1.00 to 5.86).

Conclusions—

Body mass index in early childhood does not appear to be associated with increased CHD risk in later life.
Body Build and Risk of Cardiovascular Events in Hypertension and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: de Simone Giovanni , Wachtell Kristian , Palmieri Vittorio , Hille Darcy A. , Beevers Gareth , Dahlöf Björn , de Faire Ulf , Fyhrquist Frej , Ibsen Hans , Julius Stevo , Kjeldsen Sverre E. , Lederballe-Pedersen Ole , Lindholm Lars H. , Nieminen Markku S. , Omvik Per , Oparil Suzanne , Devereux Richard B.
Published: April 2005

Background—

Obesity may independently increase the risk of adverse events in hypertension with target-organ damage. We investigated whether body build was independently associated with higher cardiovascular risk and whether treatment with losartan relative to atenolol influenced the impact of body build on the primary composite end point of cardiovascular death, stroke, and myocardial infarction and on cardiovascular death in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy in the Losartan Intervention For Endpoint reduction in hypertension (LIFE) study.

Methods and Results—

The population of 9079 patients was divided as follows: thin (body mass index [BMI] <20 kg/m
2
, 2%), normal weight (BMI 20 to 24.9, 24%), overweight (BMI 25 to 29.9, 45%), and obese (class I: BMI 30 to 34.9, 21%; class II: BMI 35 to 39.9, 6%; class III: BMI ≥40, 2%). Incident diabetes increased progressively with BMI and was somewhat higher in the atenolol arm. Differences in gender and race were detected among the body build groups. Rates (Cox proportional hazard analysis) of the primary composite end point did not differ among body build groups after adjustment for age, gender, race, smoking habit, prevalent cardiovascular disease, and left ventricular hypertrophy. Cardiovascular death was more frequent among thin (
P
<0.05) and pooled class II-III obesity (both
P
<0.04) than normal-weight groups. Risk was not attenuated significantly by losartan treatment, nor did it interfere with the greater benefit of losartan- as opposed to atenolol-based treatment.

Conclusions—

In the LIFE study, stratification for classes of body build identified increased risk of cardiovascular mortality in both thin and moderately-to-severely obese individuals. This risk was not attenuated significantly by losartan treatment, nor did it interfere with the greater benefit of losartan-based treatment as opposed to atenolol-based treatment.
Upregulation of Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor, Inflammatory Mediators, and Enzymes of Arachidonate Metabolism in Obese Zucker Rat Kidney
Authors: Xu Zhong-Gao , Lanting Linda , Vaziri Nosratola D. , Li Zhen , Sepassi Lili , Rodriguez-Iturbe Bernardo , Natarajan Rama
Published: April 2005

Background—

Severe obesity can result in proteinuria and progressive glomerulosclerosis in humans and experimental animals. The associated renal disease is ameliorated by weight reduction and/or blockade of the renin-angiotensin system. Various growth factors, cytokines, and lipid mediators are implicated in the pathogenesis of renal disease. To explore the possible involvement of these mediators in obesity-induced renal disease, we examined the expression of key enzymes of arachidonate metabolism and inflammatory genes in untreated and losartan-treated obese Zucker rats, a model of obesity, insulin resistance, and renal injury.

Methods and Results—

Seven-week-old male obese Zucker rats were randomized to losartan-treated (100 mg/L drinking H
2
O) and untreated groups, with lean Zucker rats as controls. After 4 months, RNA and protein were obtained from renal cortical tissue for relative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, Western blots, and immunohistochemistry. Compared with the lean controls, obese Zucker rats showed significant glomerular matrix expansion and increased mRNA expression of the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin, inflammatory mediators interleukin-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and 2 major enzymes of arachidonate metabolism, namely, 12/15-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase-2. This was associated with significant increases in p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 mitogen-activated protein kinase activities and marked upregulation of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) mRNA and protein expression. These abnormalities and the associated glomerulopathy and proteinuria were prevented by administration of the AT1R blocker losartan.

Conclusions—

These findings indicate that obesity-induced glomerulopathy is associated with upregulation of key inflammatory mediators. These events are associated with and perhaps in part due to upregulation of AT1R, as evidenced by their reversal with AT1R blocker treatment.
The Civil Code of the Russian Federation from Foreign and Comparative Law Perspectives: An Introduction
Authors: Sahlas Peter
Published: April 2005

The author provides context to the readers of the six papers featured in this issue of the Review of Central and East European Law, which examine elements of the new Civil Code of the Russian Federation from foreign and comparative law perspectives. A brief history of the milestones in Quebec and Russian experiences in private law codifi cation is supplemented with a narrative describing the lead role played in the latter by the Private Law Research Center in Moscow, and the support role played by, among others, the McGill University Faculty of Law.
The General Provisions on Contract in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation
Authors: Smith Stephen
Published: April 2005

The author offers a critical examination of the general provisions on contract in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation. Focusing narrowly on the text of the code, the paper starts with a broad overview of, and commentary on, the general provisions and their relation to other parts of the code, and then provides a detailed article-by-article commentary on individual provisions. Potential difficulties are identified and suggestions are offered for how the text might be clarified (and in particular simplified) or, in certaincases, substantively changed. The author contends that the general provisions provide for a legal framework that is appropriate in broad terms; however, individual articles in the provisions are not beyond criticism. The author makes clear that his criticisms and suggestions are largely at the level of fine-tuning, rather than first principle.
Energy balance of a drill-bit seismic source, part 1: Rotary energy and radiation properties
Authors: Poletto Flavio
Published: April 2005

An issue in seismic-while-drilling (SWD) technology is to characterize the dynamic and radiation properties of the drill-bit source working under different operational conditions. The energy requirements, power losses, local crack effects, radiation, and near-field effects associated with rotary drilling are analyzed to quantify the waves produced by an SWD vertical force acting in bounded and unbounded media. Results are expressed in terms of a complex integrated impedance and the equations for rotary drilling. The calculations — extended to the waves in the drill string — are used in part 2 of this paper (Poletto, 2005, this issue) to quantify the performance of actual drill-bit sources.
Neurobiology of Rehabilitation
Authors: DOBKIN BRUCE H.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:Rehabilitation aims to lessen the physical and cognitive impairments and disabilities of patients with stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord or brain injury, and other neurologic diseases. Conventional approaches beyond compensatory adjustments to disability may be augmented by applying some of the myriad experimental results about mechanisms of intrinsic biological changes after injury and the effects of extrinsic manipulations on spared neuronal assemblies. The organization and inherent adaptability of the anatomical nodes within distributed pathways of the central nervous system offer a flexible substrate for treatment strategies that drive activity‐dependent plasticity. Opportunities for a new generation of approaches are manifested by rodent and non‐human primate studies that reveal morphologic and physiologic adaptations induced by injury, by learning‐associated practice, by the effects of pharmacologic neuromodulators, by the behavioral and molecular bases for enhancing activity‐dependent synaptic plasticity, and by cell replacement, gene therapy, and regenerative biologic strategies. Techniques such as functional magnetic resonance imaging and transcranial magnetic stimulation will help determine the most optimal physiologic effects of interventions in patients as the cortical representations for skilled movements and cognitive processes are modified by the combination of conventional and biologic therapies. As clinicians digest the finer details of the neurobiology of rehabilitation, they will translate laboratory data into controlled clinical trials. By determining how much they can influence neural reorganization, clinicians will extend the opportunities for neurorestoration.
Economic Approaches to Understanding Families
Authors: BECKER GARY S.
Published: April 2005

Abstract: The economic approach helps explain the enormous changes in fertility, marriage, divorce, and human capital of families during the past 50 years. Large challenges remain to explain below‐replacement fertility in over 60 countries and the consequences of such low birth rates for economic growth and other issues.
Social and Economic Aspects of Immigration
Authors: MASSEY DOUGLAS S.
Published: April 2005

Abstract:Flows of people are observed as international migration. Every developed country in the world today has becomede factoa “country of immigration” whether the country cares to admit it or not. We have surveyed 99 communities in Mexico and 35 in the rest of Latin America and the Caribbean. The datasets contain basic data on 19,850 U.S. migrants originating in Mexico and 3,322 migrants originating elsewhere in Latin America or the Caribbean. As a result of the contradictions of U.S. policy during the 1990s, what used to be a circular flow of able‐bodied male workers has been transformed into a permanent migrant migration of families, which will have profound effects on American society for years to come.
Randomized Phase III Study of Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitor BMS-275291 in Combination With Paclitaxel and Carboplatin in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: National Cancer Institute of Canada-Clinical Trials Group Study BR.18
Authors: Leighl Natasha B. , Paz-Ares Luis , Douillard Jean-Yves , Peschel Christian , Arnold Andrew , Depierre Alain , Santoro Armando , Betticher Daniel C. , Gatzemeier Ulrich , Jassem Jacek , Crawford Jeffrey , Tu Dongsheng , Bezjak Andrea , Humphrey Jeffrey S. , Voi Maurizio , Galbraith Susan , Hann Katherine , Seymour Lesley , Shepherd Frances A.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To determine whether BMS-275291, a broad-spectrum matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor (MMPI), added to systemic chemotherapy improved survival in advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In early phase studies, BMS- 275291 was not associated with dose-limiting joint toxicity seen with other MMPIs.

Patients and Methods

Chemotherapy-naive patients with stage IIIB/IV NSCLC, performance status (PS) 0 to 2, and adequate organ function were eligible. All patients received paclitaxel 200 mg/m2 plus carboplatin (area under the curve, 6 mg/mL-min) intravenously every 21 days for up to 8 cycles, and were randomly assigned to receive BMS-275291, 1,200 mg orally daily, or placebo until disease progression. The primary study end point was survival (OS); secondary end points included progression-free survival (PFS), response rates (RR), toxicity, and quality of life.

Results

From 2000 to 2002, 774 patients were randomly assigned. Pretreatment characteristics were well balanced between arms: median age, 61 years; male sex, 73%; stage IV, 79%; PS 0 to 1, 88%. Interim safety analysis revealed no survival advantage and increased toxicity in the experimental arm, and study treatment was stopped. Median OS, PFS and RR in the final analysis in the BMS-275291 arm were 8.6 months, 4.9 months, and 25.8% respectively, and in the control arm 9.2 months, 5.3 months, 33.7%. Toxicity was significantly higher in the BMS-275291 arm, including flu-like symptoms, rash, hypersensitivity reactions (8.6% v 2.4%), and febrile neutropenia (9.7% v 5.5%).

Conclusion

BMS-275291 added to chemotherapy increases toxicity and does not improve survival in advanced NSCLC.
Doxorubicin With Cyclophosphamide Followed by Docetaxel Every 21 Days Compared With Doxorubicin and Docetaxel Every 14 Days As Preoperative Treatment in Operable Breast Cancer: The GEPARDUO Study of the German Breast Group
Authors: von Minckwitz Gunter , Raab Günter , Caputo Angelika , Schütte Martin , Hilfrich Jörn , Blohmer Jens U. , Gerber Bernd , Costa Serban D. , Merkle Elisabeth , Eidtmann Holger , Lampe Dieter , Jackisch Christian , du Bois Andreas , Kaufmann Manfred
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Dose-dense and sequential administration of cytotoxic drugs are current approaches to improve outcomes in patients with early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

This phase III study investigated 913 women with untreated operable breast cancer (T2-3, N0-2, M0) randomly assigned to receive either doxorubicin 50 mg/m2 plus docetaxel 75 mg/m2 every 14 days for four cycles with filgrastim support (ADOC), or doxorubicin 60 mg/m2 plus cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 every 21 days followed by docetaxel 100 mg/m2 every 21 days for four cycles each (AC-DOC). The primary end point was the incidence of pathologic complete (invasive and noninvasive) response (pCR) in the breast and axillary nodes. Secondary end points were predictors for pCR, clinical response, rate of breast conservation, and safety.

Results

A pCR was achieved in 94 patients (10.6%), but the likelihood was significantly greater with AC-DOC (14.3%; n = 63) than with ADOC (7.0%; n = 31) (odds ratio, 2.22; 90% CI, 1.52 to 3.24; P < .001). Independent predictors of attaining a pCR included the use of sequential therapy, high tumor grade, and negative hormone receptor status. The response rates detected by palpation and by imaging were significantly higher with AC-DOC (85.0% and 78.6%, respectively) than with ADOC (75.2% and 68.6%, respectively; both P values < .001). The rate of breast-conserving surgery was 63.4% for AC-DOC and 58.1% for ADOC (P = .05). Predominant grade 3/4 toxicities were leucopenia (AC-DOC, 74.2%; ADOC, 53.7%) and neutropenia (AC-DOC, 66.4%; ADOC, 44.7%) but were infrequently associated with fever (AC-DOC, 4.6%; ADOC, 3.1%).

Conclusion

Sequential AC-DOC is more effective at inducing pCR than dose-dense ADOC as preoperative treatment for patients with operable breast cancer.
Efficient and Concise Synthesis of βMan1–4GlcN Linkage of Pentasaccharide Core by Using 6-Nitro-2-benzothiazolyl α-Mannoside
Authors: Mandai Hiroki , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: April 2005

Efficient and concise synthesis of βMan1–4GlcN of pentasaccharide core is established; direct β-mannosylations of 4-OH group of 2-deoxy-2-phthaloyl and 2-azide-2-deoxy glucose derivatives by using 6-nitro-2-benzothiazolyl α-mannoside proceeded smoothly to afford the desired β-mannosides in high yields.
Performance Enhancement by Blending Merocyanine Photosensitizer in TiO2/Polythiophen Solid-state Solar Cells
Authors: Takahashi Kohshin , Nakanishi Takuya , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Nakamura Jun-ichi , Murata Kazuhiko
Published: April 2005

When the photosensitizing 3-ethyl-5-[3-ethyl-5-[2-(3-ethyl-2(3H)-benzothiazolylidene)ethylidene]-4-oxo-2-thiazolidinylidene]-2-thioxo-4-thiazolidinone (NK2097) was blended into the regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT), the performance of the TiO2/P3HT + NK2097 sandwich-type solar cell was remarkably improved, resulting in 0.85% of energy conversion yield under the illumination of simulated sunlight with 100 mW/cm2 intensity.
Callus induction and plant regeneration by Brazilian triticale and wheat genotypes
Authors: Dornelles A.L.C. , Carvalho F.I.F. , Federizzi L.C. , Handel C.L. , Bered F. , Sordi M.E.B. , Schneider F.
Published: April 2005

In order to determine the in vitro behavior of Brazilian triticale, 16 triticale genotypes, and three wheat genotypes used as checks, were sown in June 1994. The explants used were immature embryos. In addition to the genotype tests, two culture media for callus induction were also evaluated, i.e., MS (Murashige and Skoog, Physiol. Plant. 15: 473-497, 1962) medium containing 2.0 mg 2,4D/l, and MS medium containing 4.0 mg 2,4D/l. The plant regeneration protocol used was the one employed at the Laboratório de Cultura de Tecidos, Departamento de Plantas de Lavoura, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, for wheat. Differences in plant regeneration were observed both among triticale and wheat genotypes, with triticale usually showing better regeneration than wheat. No differences were observed between the callus induction media.
Cytogenetic study of 50 Brazilian patients with primary myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Fernandez Teresa de Souza , Silva Maria Luiza M. , Souza Jamison M. de , Tabak Daniel , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: April 2005

In this work we analyzed cytogenetically 50 patients with primary myelodysplastic syndrome from several hospitals of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The frequency of cytogenetic abnormalities was 32%. Patients with refractory anemia, or refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts, presented normal karyotypes or single abnormalities such as del(5q) or -Y, while patients with refractory anemia with an excess of blasts, refractory anemia with an excess of blasts in transformation or chronic myelomonocytic leukemia showed complex karyotypes and single abnormalities involving chromosomes 7 or 8, which are related to a bad prognosis and an elevated risk of evolution to acute myeloid leukemia.
Clastogenic activity of integerrimine determined in mouse micronucleus assays
Authors: Gimmler-Luz Maria Clara , Erdtmann Bernardo
Published: April 2005

The pyrrolizidine alkaloid integerrimine, obtained from Senecio brasiliensis, was tested by acute dosing at two concentrations (18.75 and 37.5 mg/kg), and at different times, to establish its ability to induce micronuclei in mouse erythrocytes. This alkaloid was able to increase the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in both, bone marrow and peripheral blood erythrocytes