bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Steric Configuration of some Nα‐Lauroyl Amino‐Acid Derivatives on their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Infante M. R. , Molinero J. , Erra P. , Juliá M. R. , Dominguez J. J. Garcia , Robert M.
Published: November 2006

The present study is an attempt to know if the steric configuration of the amino‐acid residues of both Nα‐Lauroyl‐Arginine and Nα‐Lauroyl‐Lysine methyl ester could influence their antibacterial effect. For this purpose the methyl esters of Nα‐Lauroyl‐D‐Arginine, Nα‐Lauroyl‐DL‐Arginine and Nα‐Lauroyl‐DL‐Lysine have been prepared. Their antibacterial activity has been evaluated and compared to that shown by Nα‐Lauroyl‐L‐Arginine and Nα‐Lauroyl‐L‐Lysine methyl ester derivatives. Our results show that the mechanism of action of these Nα‐Lauroyl‐amino‐acid derivatives against the bacteria cells is not influenced by the stereochemistry of the compound.
Sucrose Polyester (SPE) ‐ A Non‐Caloric Fat
Authors: Boggs R. W.
Published: November 2006

Sucrose polyester is non‐absorbed and, therefore, a noncaloric fat containing between 5‐8 fatty acids esterified to a sucrose molecule. Those fatty acids esterified to the sucrose dictate the physical properties of the resulting fat ranging from a solid to a liquid. Sucrose polyester is resistant to lipase activity thereby resulting in its non‐absorption and noncaloric nature. The presentation will discuss sucrose polyester's (non) metabolism, physical properties, toxicity, clinical studies, as well as acceptance in animals and humans. The chemical synthesis schemes for sucrose polyester production in kilogram amounts has been developed and will be discussed. Sucrose polyester has been exposed to humans for cholesterol lowering, weight reduction, appetite control, and diabetes. Results will be discussed. Sucrose polyester has been found to be safe following extensive toxicology testing in multiple species. Overall assessment of sucrose polyester's safety will be discussed. A review of sucrose polyesters development to product forms will be the subject of this presentation.
Lipid Profile and Fatty Acid Composition of Moth Bean (Vigna aconitefolia) Seeds
Authors: Shet M. S. , Murugiswamy B. , Madaiah M.
Published: November 2006

The seeds of moth bean (Vigna aconitefolia) were found to contain 4.5 % of lipid. Fractionation of this lipid by silicic acid column chromatography yielded 44.5 % neutral lipids (NL), 23.4 % glycolipids (GL) and 32.1 % phospholipids (PL). Fatty acid composition of the total lipid and lipid fractions showed that palmitic acid (37.3‐54.7 %), stearic acid (7.8‐8.0%) oleic acid (6.8‐13.9 %) linoleic acid (23.1‐35.6 %) and linolenic acid (3.0‐10.0%) are the major fatty acids. The phospholipid fraction was found to be different from the rest in containing higher palmitic acid (54.7%) and lower unsaturated fatty acids.
Quantitative Bestimmung cyanogener Glykoside in Linum usitatissimum. Mit Hilfe der HPLC
Authors: Schilcher H. , Wilkens‐Sauter Meike
Published: November 2006

Mit Hilfe der HPLC ist es möglich, die in Linum usitatissimum L. vorhandenen cyanogenen Glykoside Linustatin, Neolinustatin, Linamarin und Lotaustralin nun auch einzeln quantitativ zu erfassen. Dies ist nicht nur von Interesse für die Erforschung der Biosynthese, sondern insbesondere für die toxikologische Bewertung von Leinsamen. In 481 Leinsamenproben konnten mittels HPLC und DC nur die Diglykoside Linustatin und Neolinustatin nachgewiesen werden, nicht dagegen die Monoglykoside Linamarin und Lotaustralin. Die mittels HPLC ermittelten HCN‐Werte lagen im Durchschnitt um 2% niedriger als die photometrisch bestimmten HCN‐Gesamtwerte.
The Biosynthesis, Absorption and Tissue Distribution of Dietary Shellfish Sterols in the Crab
Authors: Ilias A. M. , Lin D. S. , Connor W. E. , Ahmad M. U. , Caldwell R. S.
Published: November 2006

The present paper deals with the biosynthesis, absorption and tissue distribution, and the origin of sterols in the crabs, Cancer majester. After the administration of isotopic mevalonate and isotopic cholesterol to crabs, the sterols were isolated by the digitonine method. The identification and sterol compositions were determined by gas‐liquid chromatography, and gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry.The results indicated that C. majester fail to utilize mevalonate to synthesize cholesterol, and are incapable of the bioconversion of cholesterol to other sterols. The sterols found in their tissues may originate from dietary sources.
Determination of Rancidity of Edible Fats by Headspace Gas Chromatographic Detection of Pentane
Authors: Pongracz G.
Published: November 2006

Headspace gas analysis with a fused silica capillary PVMS 50 M column was examined for the quantitative determination of some volatile alkanes particularly pentane in edible oils. The relationship between chromatographic peak areas and pentane added in various concentrations was linear between 0.5 and 10 ppm. Significant correlations between sensory evaluation and concentration of pentane were found.
Report from a U.S. conference on essential tremor
Authors: Elble Rodger J.
Published: November 2006

Seventy researchers met in Washington, DC, on 20–21 October 2005 to identify and discuss the most pressing research issues in essential tremor (ET). The conference attendees concluded that the following six objectives are of immediate and overriding importance: (1) a collaborative network of research centers; (2) an international committee for developing a standard protocol for the diagnosis and quantification of ET; (3) the identification of one or more genes for ET; (4) a centralized repository of DNA and, ideally, immortalized cell lines from well‐characterized ET families and healthy controls; (5) a reliable and efficient repository of optimally prepared and categorized brain samples for hypothesis‐driven neuropathological examinations in well‐characterized ET patients; and (6) animal models of ET for screening promising drugs. The conference attendees hope that this statement from the United States will engender international collaboration in finding a cure for ET. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Beneficial effects of creatine, CoQ10, and lipoic acid in mitochondrial disorders
Authors: Rodriguez M. Christine , MacDonald Jay R. , Mahoney Douglas J. , Parise Gianni , Beal M. Flint , Tarnopolsky Mark A.
Published: November 2006

Mitochondrial disorders share common cellular consequences: (1) decreased ATP production; (2) increased reliance on alternative anaerobic energy sources; and (3) increased production of reactive oxygen species. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of a combination therapy (creatine monohydrate, coenzyme Q10, and lipoic acid to target the above‐mentioned cellular consequences) on several outcome variables using a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study design in patients with mitochondrial cytopathies. Three patients had mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke‐like episodes (MELAS), four had mitochondrial DNA deletions (three patients with chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia and one with Kearns–Sayre syndrome), and nine had a variety of other mitochondrial diseases not falling into the two former groups. The combination therapy resulted in lower resting plasma lactate and urinary 8‐isoprostanes, as well as attenuation of the decline in peak ankle dorsiflexion strength in all patient groups, whereas higher fat‐free mass was observed only in the MELAS group. Together, these results suggest that combination therapies targeting multiple final common pathways of mitochondrial dysfunction favorably influence surrogate markers of cellular energy dysfunction. Future studies with larger sample sizes in relatively homogeneous groups will be required to determine whether such combination therapies influence function and quality of life. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Analysis of outcomes of single polypropylene mesh in total pelvic floor reconstruction
Authors: Amrute Kaytan V. , Eisenberg Evan R. , Rastinehad Ardeshir R. , Kushner Leslie , Badlani Gopal H.
Published: November 2006

Aims

A 2.5‐year outcome analysis was performed on patients who underwent transvaginal repair of total pelvic organ prolapse with single polypropylene mesh. A description of the repair technique using a tension‐free 4‐point fixation is also reviewed.

Methods

After proper vaginal dissection, a specially fashioned “H” shaped polypropylene mesh is positioned and fixed at 4‐points. With a single piece of mesh, the anterior arms provide mid‐urethral and bladder neck support, the mid‐portion of the mesh corrects anterior compartment defects, and the posterior arms aid in vaginal vault suspension. Initially, bone anchors were utilized for anterior fixation, but currently a tension‐free method is used. A retrospective analysis using chart review was performed on 96 patients who underwent this procedure from January 2000 to June 2005. Additional information was gathered by a telephone survey using a questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t‐test, with Sigma Stat®.

Results

Seventy‐six patients (79%) were available with a mean follow‐up time of 30.7 ±  1.7 months and mean age of 69.3 ± 11.3. Among those with follow‐up, 36 patients (47.4%) underwent concurrent hysterectomies. Recurrence of prolapse was reported by four patients (5.2%). Sixty‐eight patients (89%) were completely dry or almost dry, defined as an occasional leak. For those with preoperative incontinence (n = 36), average pad use per day decreased significantly from 2.1 ± 0.4 to 0.8 ± 0.2 (P < 0.005) postoperatively. Twelve patients (15.7%) reported of de novo urgency. Six patients required reoperation including excision of vaginal mesh erosion (2), uretholysis for obstruction (1), removal of palpable vaginal suture (1), and recurrent SUI (2). Among the 21 patients who are sexually active, 19 denied any dyspareunia (90.4%). Patient satisfaction was high, as the mean value was 7.9 ± 0.3 on a scale of 1 (least satisfied) to 10 (most satisfied).

Conclusions

Transvaginal repair of complete pelvic prolapse using polypropylene mesh is a safe and efficacious option, with minimal recurrence of prolapse and SUI. While two patients had vaginal erosions, no urethral or bladder erosions occurred. Patient satisfaction was overall favorable. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anethole, a potential antimicrobial synergist, converts a fungistatic dodecanol to a fungicidal agent
Authors: Fujita Ken‐ichi , Fujita Tomoko , Kubo Isao
Published: November 2006

Anethole shows synergistic effects on the antifungal activities of phytochemicals including polygodial and (2E)‐undecenal against Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans. It was found that a fungistatic dodecanol combined with a sublethal amount of anethole showed a fungicidal activity against S. cerevisiae. The MIC of dodecanol quickly reduced cell viability, but the cell viability recovered shortly after and then finally became no longer different from the control, indicating that the effect of dodecanol on this yeast was classified as sublethal damage. On the other hand, anethole completely restricted the recovery of cell viability. Therefore the expression of the synergistic effect was probably due to a blockade of the recovery process from dodecanol‐induced stress. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methanol extract of the seaweed Gloiopeltis furcata induces G2/M arrest and inhibits cyclooxygenase‐2 activity in human hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cells
Authors: Bae Song Ja , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: November 2006

It was previously reported that a methanol extract of Gloiopeltis furcata (MEGF), a kind of edible seaweed, inhibited the growth of several human cancer cell lines. In the present study, the effect of MEGF on the growth of human hepatocarcinoma HepG2 cells and its effect on the cyclooxygenases (COXs) expression were investigated. MEGF markedly reduced the viability of HepG2 cells and induced the G2/M arrest of the cell cycle in a concentration dependent manner. These effects were associated with the down‐regulation of cyclin A, up‐regulation of cyclin‐dependent kinase (Cdk) inhibitor p21 (WAF1/CIP1) and dephosphorylation of Cdc25C. Furthermore, it was found that MEGF decreased the levels of COX‐2 mRNA and protein expression without significant changes in the levels of COX‐1, which was correlated with a decrease in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) synthesis. These findings indicate that MEGF may have a possible therapeutic potential in hepatoma cancer patients. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The hepatoprotective activity of kinsenoside from Anoectochilus formosanus
Authors: Wu Jin‐Bin , Lin Wei‐Lii , Hsieh Chang‐Chi , Ho Hui‐Ya , Tsay Hsin‐Sheng , Lin Wen‐Chuan
Published: November 2006

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) causes chronic hepatitis, featuring an increase in hepatic hydroxyproline, spleen weight and serum GPT levels and a decrease in plasma albumin levels. Crude extracts of fresh whole plants of Anoectochilus formosanus showed inhibition of chronic hepatitis induced by CCl4 in mice. Bioactivity‐guided fractionation and spectroscopic analysis revealed that kinsenoside was the most active compound. In an in vitro study, the LD50 values for H2O2‐induced cytotoxicity in BALB/c normal liver cells were significantly higher after kinsenoside pretreatment than after vehicle alone, further confirming that kinsenoside shows significant antihepatotoxic activity. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
70 Jahre Forschungsinstitut für Stärkefabrikation, Berlin
Authors: Wegner Hans
Published: November 2006

…Schon lange war von hervorragenden Persönlichkeiten des Vereins der Spiritusfabrikanten der Wunsch ausgesprochen, daß in gleicher Weise, wie die Preßhefebrikation, auch der Stärkefabrikation in unserem Verein eine Stätte bereitet werde. Nicht nur in der Weise, daß das Vereinsblatt auch über die Fortschritte dieses Gewerbes referiere, sondern dadurch, daß eine besondere Abteilung des Laboratoriums geschaffen werde, welche sich ausschließlich der Frage der Stärkefabrikation widme. Die äußere Veranlassung zur versuchsweisen Erfüllung dieser Forderung wurde der Neubau des Vereinshauses. Das schöne Laboratorium wird genügen, ohne die Interessen der Forschung im Dienste der Gärungsgewerbe zu schädigen, den durch das gleiche Rohmaterial verwandten Gewerbszweigen eine Unterkunft zu gewähren. Es ist nun gelungen, in Herrn Dr. Saare eine Persönlichkeit zu finden, welche geeignet sein wird, selbständig diese Forschungsrichtung zu kultivieren.

Die auf Donnerstag, den 15. Februar, vormittags, im Club der Landwirte angesetzte Versammlung wird Gelegenheit bieten, manche wichtige Frage, den Stärkehandel betreffend, zu diskutieren, insbesondere werden aber die Mitteilungen über bereits begonnene chemische Untersuchungen, sowie die Frage der Rieselung des Stärkewassers, wie wir hoffen, das Interesse erregen….
Schutz vor Selbstzündungen, Explosionen, Bränden aus Stäuben in der Stärkeindustrie
Authors: Geck Walter H.
Published: November 2006

Im Jahre 1952 hat der Fachverband der Stärke‐Industrie e. V., Bonn, aus der Feder von Walter H. Geck ein Merkheft mit dem vorstehenden Titel herausgegeben. Infolge der großen Nachfrage war die Auflage verhältnismäßig rasch vergriffen. Obwohl in den letzten Jahren größere Unglücksfälle nicht bekannt geworden sind, bestehen nach wie vor Gefahren, die durch Unachtsamkeit große Personen‐ und Sachschäden auslösen können.

Der Verlag der Fachzeitschrift “Die Stärke” hat sich daher entschlossen, den vom Verfasser neu bearbeiteten Text des Merkheftes nachstehend zum Abdruck zu bringen.
Interaction of Monoglycerides with Starches
Authors: van Lonkhuysen H. , Blankestijn J.
Published: November 2006

In bread‐making practice, the emulsifier glycerolmonostearate (GMS) is commonly used as an improving agent, though the mechanism of its action is not fully elucidated. Most of earlier studies have been made on starches in molecular solution. The present investigation deals with interactions of the emulsifier (in fact a mixture of glycerolmonostearate and ‐palmitate) and starches in suspension, at temperatures ranging from 30–90°C.

The quantity of monoglycerides bound by the starch was determined by sampling the reaction vessel at time intervals and re‐extracting the monoglycerides that were left free in the suspension. Quantitative determination was achieved with the aid of gas‐chromatography.

It was found that at 30 °C, part of the monoglycerides is irreversibly bound by the starch granules; during gelatinization, the quantity of emulsifier bound shows a considerable increase to reach, at 90 °C, an equilibrium at a higher level. Probably, the monoglyceride molecules penetrate into the swollen starch granules to form an insoluble complex with amylose.

Various starches included in the study showed essentially similar behaviour, but were quantitatively different in their capacity to bind monoglyceride. At 30 °C, wheat starch binds a greater part of added monoglycerides than does cassava starch; at 90 °C the situation is the reverse.
Localization and in vitro binding studies suggest that the cytoplasmic/nuclear tobacco lectin can interact in situ with high‐mannose and complex N‐glycans
Authors: Lannoo Nausicaä , Peumans Willy J. , Pamel Els Van , Alvarez Rick , Xiong Tou-Cheu , Hause Gerd , Mazars Christian , Van Damme Els J.M.
Published: November 2006

The possible in vivo interaction of the Nicotiana tabacum agglutinin (Nictaba) with endogenous glycoproteins was corroborated using a combination of confocal/electron microscopy of an EGFP‐Nictaba fusion protein expressed in tobacco Bright Yellow‐2 (BY‐2) cells and biochemical analyses. In vitro binding studies demonstrated that the expressed EGFP‐Nictaba possesses carbohydrate‐binding activity. Microscopic analyses confirmed the previously reported cytoplasmic/nuclear location of Nictaba in jasmonate‐treated tobacco leaves and provided evidence for the involvement of a nuclear localization signal‐dependent transport mechanism. In addition, it became evident that the lectin is not uniformly distributed over the nucleus and the cytoplasm of BY‐2 cells. Far Western blot analysis of extracts from whole BY‐2 cells and purified nuclei revealed that Nictaba interacts in a glycan inhibitable way with numerous proteins including many nuclear proteins. Enzymatic deglycosylation with PNGase F indicated that the observed interaction depends on the presence of N‐glycans. Glycan array screening, which showed that Nictaba exhibits a strong affinity for high‐mannose and complex N‐glycans, provided a reasonable explanation for this observation. The cytoplasmic/nuclear localization of a plant lectin that has a high affinity for high‐mannose and complex N‐glycans and specifically interacts with conspecific glycoproteins suggests that N‐glycosylated proteins might be more important in the cytoplasm and nucleus than is currently believed.
Sialolithiasis in a residual Wharton's duct after excision of a submandibular salivary gland
Authors: Markiewicz M R , Margarone 3rd J E , Tapia J L , Aguirre A
Published: November 2006

Treatment of salivary stones includes both surgical and non-surgical techniques. Surgical approaches range from excision of the sialolith, for those near the duct orifice, to removal of the affected salivary gland and its associated duct, for stones near the hilum of the gland. We present a case of two sialoliths triggering an acute infection in a residual Wharton's duct, 12 years after the removal of the associated submandibular gland. Excision of the sialoliths and treatment of the infected duct via sialodochoplasty was successfully performed in this patient. If the Wharton's duct is not removed with the associated submandibular gland, the potential for infection and continuous growth of dormant calcifications exists. We also address the aetiology, pathogenesis, and management of patients with sialolithiasis in the absence of a major salivary gland.
Modification of the Hörmann technique of hyoid suspension in obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Tschopp K P
Published: November 2006

Hyoid suspension is a procedure to stabilise the retrolingual space in obstructive sleep apnoea. Using the Hörmann technique, a steel wire is slung around the body of the hyoid and fixed to the upper rim of the thyroid cartilage. It was observed, however, that the steel wire may lie very superficially to the pharyngeal mucosa. Evaluation of computed tomography (CT) scans showed a mean distance between the hyoid and the pharynx of only 3 mm. A modification is presented by threading a steel wire through a hole that is drilled through the hyoid bone. Thus pharyngeal exposure of the steel ligature and possible perforation of the mucosa is avoided.
Chaperones in ENT out-patients; the patients' perspective
Authors: Ching H Y , Eze N , Moore-Gillon V
Published: November 2006

Chaperones are used in order to avoid misunderstandings that can lead to false accusations. Consultations and examinations may be a minefield especially if the doctors are accused of sexual misconduct. The allegations may have irreparable effects on their reputation and may lead to removal from the medical register and to criminal charges being brought. We present the results of a questionnaire from 85 patients, exploring patient experience in ENT out-patients particularly with respect to examination of the ear under the microscope. This procedure necessitates close contact between the patient and doctor for several minutes and there may be inadvertent contact with intimate areas on the patient. Up to 30 per cent of patients expressed a preference for a chaperone during the ENT consultation. There was noticeably a greater proportion of men than women patients stating a preference for a chaperone during the consultation. Interestingly, there was a strong positive correlation between the presence of friends/relatives and the preference for a chaperone. Patients should be given the freedom to choose for or against the presence of a chaperone in clinic consultations. The most commonly predicted scenario requiring a chaperone is with the male doctor and female patient. This study shows that based on patient feedback, this scenario, although common is not the exclusive area in which chaperones should be used.
Management of benign inverted sinonasal papilloma avoiding external approaches
Authors: Holzmann D , Hegyi I , Rajan G P , Harder-Ruckstuhl M
Published: November 2006

Even though endoscopic removal of inverted papillomas has gained popularity, many studies advocate supplementary external approaches. The impact of including the current surgical staging system into the pre-operative clinical and radiological assessment has not been systematically evaluated. We present our experience with total endoscopic management of inverted papillomas and compare the accuracy of the pre-operative predicted extent of surgery, with the actually performed surgery.

From 1997 to 2005 data from 51 patients with inverted papillomas were prospectively collected and subsequently reviewed. All have been operated on endoscopically without an external approach.

The overall recurrence rate was 3.9 per cent. Pre-operative prediction of extent of surgery was accurate in 26 of 51 (51 per cent). The main reasons for the inaccurate pre-operative prediction were the variable sizes and locations of the inverted papilloma bases, particularly in the maxillary sinus and the frontal recess. Our results encourage us to recommend endoscopic management as the standard treatment of benign inverted papillomas.
Ghana's political parties: how ethno/regional variations sustain the national two-party system
Authors: Morrison Minion K. C. , Woo Hong Jae
Published: November 2006

This paper analyses Ghanaian electoral geography and its accompanying political party variations over the last decade. After re-democratisation in the early 1990s, the Fourth Republic of Ghana has successfully completed multiple elections and party alternation. Due to its single-member-district-plurality electoral system, the country has functioned virtually as a two-party system, privileging its two major parties – the NDC and the NPP. However, close examination of election results in the last parliamentary and presidential elections reveals that notwithstanding the two-party tendency, there is a dynamic and multilayered aspect of electoral participation in Ghanaian politics. Ethnic-based regional cleavages show much more complex varieties of electoral support for the two major parties, especially in light of fragmentation and concentration. Electoral support in the ten regions varies from strong one-party-like to almost three-party systems. Yet this lower, regional level tendency is not invariable. Regional party strengths have shifted from election to election, and it was just such shifts that made the party alternation possible in 2000. Employing traditional and newly designed indicators, this paper illustrates the patterns of electoral cleavage and regional party organisation, and how these ultimately sustain the party system at the national level in Ghana.
Contrasting models of genetic co-morbidity for cannabis and other illicit drugs in adult Australian twins
Authors: AGRAWAL A. , LYNSKEY M. T. , BUCHOLZ K. K. , MARTIN N. G. , MADDEN P. A. F. , HEATH A. C.
Published: November 2006

Background. The use of cannabis and other illicit drugs (OIDs) and their co-morbid misuse are frequently reported in the literature. Correlated vulnerabilities and causal or gateway influences have been implicated in this association. We investigated the source of this co-morbidity between cannabis use (experimentation, early and repeated use, and problems) and OID experimentation and problems using genetic models proposed by Neale and Kendler (American Journal of Human Genetics 1995, 57, 935–953).

Method. In a sample of 4152 same-sex male and female adult Australian twin individuals, we fit 13 genetically informative models of co-morbidity to data on experimentation, early use, repeated use of cannabis and co-morbid OID experimentation, and to abuse/dependence (A/D) problems with cannabis and OIDs.

Results. Model-fitting results suggest that common genetic, shared and unique environmental factors are responsible for the association between cannabis experimentation, early use, repeated use and A/D problems and OID experimentation or problems. The liability causation model, which is a reduced form of the correlated vulnerabilities model, also fit very well. In women, we found evidence for high-risk cannabis experimenters and repeated users to be at increased risk for OID experimentation, despite being below the risk threshold on the liability distribution for OID experimentation (extreme multiformity).

Conclusions. Co-morbid cannabis and OID use and misuse are due partly to a common predisposition to substance use disorders. Putative causal effects could not be ruled out. These models warrant further research, so that features of the correlated vulnerabilities model and the gateway models can be studied jointly in a single series of adaptive nested models.
Rubella seroprofile of the Italian population: an 8-year comparison
Authors: ROTA M. C. , BELLA A. , GABUTTI G. , GIAMBI C. , FILIA A. , GUIDO M. , DE DONNO A. , CROVARI P. , DEGLI ATTI M. L. CIOFI ,   on behalf of the Serological Study Group
Published: November 2006

The objective of this study is to evaluate how increasing MMR infant vaccination coverage in recent years has modified the epidemiology of rubella in Italy. A cross-sectional population-based seroprevalence study of rubella antibodies was conducted on 3094 sera, in 2004, and results were compared with data obtained by the same method in 1996. The overall proportion of rubella-seropositive individuals was found to be significantly higher in 2004 with respect to 1996 (84·6% vs. 77·4%). However, an increase in seropositivity was observed only in the 1–19 years age groups. Recent increases in childhood MMR vaccination coverage, therefore, have not had an impact on seroprevalence in women of childbearing age, over 5% of whom remain susceptible to rubella. Preconception screening and postpartum vaccination of susceptible women are fundamental if the WHO target of less than one case of congenital rubella syndrome per 100 000 live births is to be attained.
Geriatric medicine training in UK undergraduate medical schools
Authors: Bartram Lisa , McGrath Adrian , Crome Peter , Crome Ilana , Corrado Oliver J , Allen Stephen
Published: November 2006

It is generally accepted that the study of human aging and the health-care needs of older people should form part of the undergraduate medical curriculum. This view was supported by policy documents from the World Health Organization, the Royal College of Physicians of London and the General Medical Council. Surveys in the 1980s showed that geriatric medicine was being taught in almost all medical schools, most commonly by a compulsory attachment to a hospital-based department of geriatric medicine.
Therapie mit embryonalen Stammzellen – wie steht die Öffentlichkeit zu den ethischen Fragen?
Authors: Rubin
Published: November 2006

Dieser Beitrag befasst sich mit der Auseinandersetzung der Öffentlichkeit über ethische Fragen der humanen embryonalen Stammzellforschung. Er legt dar, dass es sich bei der Öffentlichkeit um keine homogene Einheit handelt, sondern um eine Vielzahl von «Teil-Öffentlichkeiten», die zu unterschiedlichen Zeitpunkten der Debatte unterschiedliche Inhalte und Fragestellungen diskutieren. Die Entwicklung der humanen Stammzelltherapie wird nicht als eine Aktivität der von der Gesellschaft isolierten Wissenschaft betrachtet, sondern als das Ergebnis einer Koproduktion der Wissenschaft mit den verschiedenen gesellschaftlichen Akteuren, die am politischen, ethischen und rechtlichen Prozess beteiligt sind. Damit wird die Antwort auf die Frage, ob die Ethik der medizinischen Forschung vorauseilt oder hinterherläuft obsolet. Sie ist einerseits das Resultat der Bemühungen mit den Ergebnissen der medizinischen Forschung einen für die Gesellschaft adäquaten Umgang zu entwickeln, andererseits nimmt sie durch ihre Bewertung auch Einfluss auf die wissenschaftlich-technische Entwicklung.
Inference of the magnetospheric plasma mass density from field line resonances: A test using a plasmasphere model
Authors: Vellante M. , Förster M.
Published: November 2006

Using field‐aligned ion density profiles from a physical‐numerical model of the plasmasphere, we investigated the reliability of techniques which use field line resonance measurements to remotely sense the plasmaspheric mass density ρ, over L = 1.6–3.4. We find that the common assumption of some functional law for the variation of ρ along different field lines may lead to distorted profiles of the equatorial density ρo as inferred from the observed fundamental field line eigenfrequency. The tests show that for midlatitude field lines (2.3 < L < 3.4) a radial power law with an index m ≅ 1 might be appropriate for a large variety of solar and geomagnetic conditions, and this index well represents the mass density dependence on the outer part of the field line. Indeed, an accurate integral expression of the field line eigenperiod demonstrates that the low‐altitude plasma tube provides a negligible contribution to the eigenperiod. However, at lower latitudes, higher m values are necessary to obtain correct estimates of ρo. In this case m represents only an average index, not related to any particular variation of ρ along the field line. This effective index is also significantly dependent on solar activity conditions and local time. It turns out that inferred temporal variations of ρo at a given low L‐shell can be significantly overestimated when a fixed functional dependence for the field‐aligned mass density is assumed. The performance of more sophisticated techniques which use higher harmonics is also examined.
Significance of straining in colloid deposition: Evidence and implications
Authors: Bradford S. A. , Simunek J. , Bettahar M. , van Genuchten M. T. , Yates S. R.
Published: November 2006

Considerable research suggests that colloid deposition in porous media is frequently not consistent with filtration theory predictions under unfavorable attachment conditions. Filtration theory was developed from an analysis of colloid attachment to the solid‐water interface of a single spherical grain collector and therefore does not include the potential influence of pore structure, grain‐grain junctions, and surface roughness on straining deposition. This work highlights recent experimental evidence that indicates that straining can play an important role in colloid deposition under unfavorable attachment conditions and may explain many of the reported limitations of filtration theory. This conclusion is based upon pore size distribution information, size exclusion, time‐ and concentration‐dependent deposition behavior, colloid size distribution information, hyperexponential deposition profiles, the dependence of deposition on colloid and porous medium size, batch release rates, micromodel observations, and deposition at textural interfaces. The implications of straining in unsaturated and heterogeneous systems are also discussed, as well as the potential influence of system solution chemistry and hydrodynamics. The inability of attachment theory predictions to describe experimental colloid transport data under unfavorable conditions is demonstrated. Specific tests to identify the occurrence and/or absence of straining and attachment are proposed.
Cluster encounter with an energetic electron beam during a substorm
Authors: Taylor M. G. G. T. , Reeves G. D. , Friedel R. H. W. , Thomsen M. F. , Elphic R. C. , Davies J. A. , Dunlop M. W. , Laakso H. , Lavraud B. , Baker D. N. , Slavin J. A. , Perry C. H. , Escoubet C. P. , Masson A. , Opgenoorth H. J. , Vallat C. , Daly P. W. , Fazakerley A. N. , Lucek E. A.
Published: November 2006

During a passage of the midtail plasma sheet, the Cluster 3 spacecraft made an unprecedented high‐resolution measurement of a beam of electrons with energies up to 400 keV. The beam was only fully resolved by combining the energy range coverage of the Plasma Electron and Current Experiment and Research with Adaptive Particle Imaging Detector electron detectors and its pitch angle distribution evolved from antiparallel, through counterstreaming to parallel over a period of 20 s. Although energetic electron fluxes (∼few hundred keV) are frequently observed in the plasma sheet, electron beams of this nature have rarely, if ever, been reported. The global conditions of the magnetosphere at this time were analyzed using multiple spacecraft, ground, and auroral observations, and are shown to be consistent with a near‐Earth neutral line substorm scenario. The beam event is clearly associated with a substorm, and we present a discussion on the detailed analysis of the energy and time dependence of the beam in context with several current theories of particle acceleration, finding that the observations do no fit completely with any in a straightforward way.
Theoretical criterion of charge moment change by lightning for initiation of sprites
Authors: Hiraki Yasutaka , Fukunishi Hiroshi
Published: November 2006

We demonstrate that the timescale of charge removal by lightning is an essential parameter for the criterion of sprites along with the charge moment. Sprites can be initiated under small charge moment changes of several hundreds of Coulomb kilometers if the discharge time is sufficiently short as hundreds of microseconds, whereas they cannot be done even with 1000 C km if the discharge time is in the order of milliseconds. We generalize the criterion as an analytical expression of charge moment and discharge time and discuss its sensitivity to the ambient plasma conductivity based on the result of the classical electrostatic model simulation. Our result can explain almost the critical values of charge moment for sprite initiation recently derived from analysis of lightning‐induced electromagnetic pulses. We deduce from our criterion that charge moment changes necessary for halo are smaller than those for streamers because the former can be initiated without significant ionization. Considering the role of charge moment and discharge time, we discuss further the condition for initiation of various classes such as a halo and a cluster of streamers with or without halo.
Effects of silicon nanostructure evolution on Er3+ luminescence in silicon-rich silicon oxide/Er-doped silica multilayers
Authors: Chang Jee Soo , Jhe Ji-Hong , Yang Moon-Seung , Shin Jung H. , Kim Kyung Joong , Moon Dae Won
Published: November 2006

The effect of silicon nanostructure evolution on Er3+ luminescence is investigated by using multilayers of 2.5nm thin SiOx (x<2) and 10nm thin Er-doped silica (SiO2:Er). By separating excess Si and Er atoms into separate, nanometer-thin layers, the effect of silicon nanostructure evolution on np-Si sensitized Er3+ luminescence could be investigated while keeping the microscopic Er3+ environment the same. The authors find that while the presence of np-Si is necessary for efficient sensitization, the overall quality of np-Si layer has little effect on the Er3+ luminescence. On the other hand, intrusion of np-Si into Er-doped silica layers leads to deactivation of np-Si∕Er3+ interaction, suggesting that there is a limit to excess Si and Er contents that can be used.
Asymmetric relaxation of SiGe∕Si(110) investigated by high-resolution x-ray diffraction reciprocal space mapping
Authors: Elfving A. , Zhao M. , Hansson G. V. , Ni W.-X.
Published: November 2006

Strain relaxation of SiGe∕Si(110) has been studied by x-ray reciprocal space mapping. To get information about the in-plane lattice mismatch in different directions, two-dimensional maps around, e.g., (260) and (062) reciprocal lattice points have been obtained from Si0.8Ge0.2∕Si(110) samples, which were exposed to different annealing conditions. The in-plane lattice mismatch was found to be asymmetric with the major strain relaxation observed in the lateral [001] direction. This was associated with the formation and propagation of dislocations oriented along [1¯10]. The relaxation of as-grown structures during postannealing is thus different from relaxation during growth, which is mainly along [1¯10].
Intersubband transitions in GaP–AlP heterostructures
Authors: Semtsiv M. P. , Müller U. , Masselink W. T. , Georgiev N. , Dekorsy T. , Helm M.
Published: November 2006

Intersubband optical transitions in doped AlP–GaP multiple quantum wells are investigated using midinfrared absorption. Strong p-polarized absorption corresponding to the transition from the first to the fourth electronic subband in the Xz valley is measured at wavelengths between 5 and 8μm. Additional absorption peaks related to transitions between confined donor states are also observed. The measured intersubband transition energies are consistent with an X valley conduction band offset between AlP and GaP of 280meV and a value of 1.1m0 for the longitudinal effective mass for the X valleys of AlP (where m0 is a free electron mass). These values, the role of donors and confined two-dimensional continuum states, and applications of this system for terahertz intersubband devices are discussed.
Charge and polarization distributions at the 90° domain wall in barium titanate ferroelectric
Authors: Zhang Qingsong , Goddard William A.
Published: November 2006

The authors use the PQEq force field based on quantum mechanics studies to provide a first-principles description of the 90° domain wall in barium titanate. Using periodic cells with lengths of up to 74nm (5120 atoms), the authors find that the domain wall thickness is 21nm in which the polarization switches over a 5nm central layer surrounded by two transition layers each 8nm wide. The central 5nm layer consists of a 2nm sublayer with overshooting polarizations and a 3nm sublayer with reversed polarization. This structure explains the discrepancies in previous analyses, which have suggested domain walls ranging from 100nmto1nm. These results should be of particular importance in developing nanoscale ferroelectric devices.
Quasistationary pulse generation in flash-lamp-pumped Nd3+:Y3Al5O12 laser mode locked through quadratic polarization switching
Authors: Yu Jin
Published: November 2006

Extended quasi-steady-state pulse train is developed through the all-solid-state combination of passive negative feedback in a GaAs platelet and positive feedback through cascaded χ(2) polarization switching. With an actively mode-locked flash-lamp-pumped Nd3+:Y3Al5O12 laser, stationary pulse trains lasting for 1μs with pulses of duration of 11.6ps and energy of 6.5μJ are obtained. The total output amounts for 1.73mJ and the pulse evolution demonstrates that the semiconductor two photon absorption is able to realize a pulse compression from 43.9to11.6ps.
Patterning of organic thin film transistors by oxygen plasma etch
Authors: Steudel Soeren , Myny Kris , De Vusser Stijn , Genoe Jan , Heremans Paul
Published: November 2006

All applications of organic thin film transistors require patterning of the organic thin film to achieve a low off current and to prevent cross talk between neighboring transistors. A common method for patterning consists of using a protective layer and etching the uncovered small molecule film by oxygen plasma. One of the handicaps of this process is the observed degradation of the transistor characteristics. By varying the resist overlap, the authors show that the main cause of this performance degradation is, in fact, a far-reaching underetch of the oxygen plasma which can be overcome by choosing the right geometry of the resist pattern.
Acoustic streaming pattern induced by longitudinal ultrasonic vibration in an open channel using particle imaging velocimetry
Authors: Loh Byoung-Gook , Lee Dong-Ryul , Kwon Kijung
Published: November 2006

Acoustic streaming, which is induced in an open channel by a cylindrical exciter vibrating at 30kHz, is experimentally investigated using particle imaging velocimetry. Induced streaming pattern and velocity field for the channel gap of 18mm are presented. The symmetric distinctive steady rotational flow with local eddies is observed. The maximum streaming velocity measured stands at 0.16cm∕s with a vibration amplitude of 50μm at an excitation frequency of 30kHz.
Potential Synergism between Hypnosis and Acupuncture—Is the Whole More Than the Sum of Its Parts?
Authors: Schiff Elad , Gurgevich Steven , Caspi Opher
Published: November 2006

Both hypnosis and acupuncture have gained credibility over the years in their effectiveness for treating various health conditions. Currently, each of these treatments is administered in distinct settings and separate times. That is, even if patients receive both treatments as part of a multidimensional therapeutic program, they would typically receive them separately rather than simultaneously at the same session. This separation however might be undesirable since, at least theoretically, hypnosis and acupuncture could potentially augment each other if administered concomitantly. In this article we outline the rationale for this hypothesis and discuss the potential ramifications of its implementation.
Human recombinant prolidase from eukaryotic and prokaryotic sources
Authors: Lupi Anna , Della Torre Sara , Campari Elena , Tenni Ruggero , Cetta Giuseppe , Rossi Antonio , Forlino Antonella
Published: November 2006

Prolidase is a Mn2+‐dependent dipeptidase that cleaves imidodipeptides containing C‐terminal proline or hydroxyproline. In humans, a lack of prolidase activity causes prolidase deficiency, a rare autosomal recessive disease, characterized by a wide range of clinical outcomes, including severe skin lesions, mental retardation, and infections of the respiratory tract. In this study, recombinant prolidase was produced as a fusion protein with an N‐terminal histidine tag in eukaryotic and prokaryotic hosts and purified in a single step using immobilized metal affinity chromatography. The enzyme was characterized in terms of activity against different substrates, in the presence of various bivalent ions, in the presence of the strong inhibitor Cbz‐Pro, and at different temperatures and pHs. The recombinant enzyme with and without a tag showed properties mainly indistinguishable from those of the native prolidase from fibroblast lysate. The protein yield was higher from the prokaryotic source, and a detailed long‐term stability study of this enzyme at 37 °C was therefore undertaken. For this analysis, an ‘on‐column’ digestion of the N‐terminal His tag by Factor Xa was performed. A positive effect of Mn2+ and GSH in the incubation mixture and high stability of the untagged enzyme are reported. Poly(ethylene glycol) and glycerol had a stabilizing effect, the latter being the more effective. In addition, no significant degradation was detected after up to 6 days of incubation with cellular lysate. Generation of the prolidase in Escherichia coli, because of its high yield, stability, and similarity to native prolidase, appears to be the best approach for future structural studies and enzyme replacement therapy.
Design and construction of an efficient electro-optic modulator for laser spectroscopy
Authors: Mok C , Weel M , Rotberg E , Kumarakrishnan A
Published: November 2006

We discuss design considerations and construction of a home-built electro-optic phase modulator (EOM) that can be used for locking a laser to an atomic transition. The EOM is designed to operate at a resonant frequency of ≈20 MHz and imposes a phase modulation on a laser beam. The phase-modulated light is sent through a reference cell containing a dilute gas of rubidium atoms. When the laser is scanned over an atomic resonance, the absorption of light through the cell can be detected and mixed down to DC to produce a dispersion shaped “error” signal. The error signal can be used to lock the laser to the atomic resonance. We also describe tests of the basic properties of the resonant circuit. The Q of the circuit is measured to be 10, resulting in 60% efficiency for the first-order sidebands at RF drive powers of 0.7 W. Applications include the spectroscopy of laser-cooled atoms.PACS Nos.: 01.50.Pa, 39.25.+k 32.80.Pj, 42.62.Fi
Tools for laser spectroscopy: The design and construction of a Faraday isolator
Authors: Winter S , Mok C , Kumarakrishnan A
Published: November 2006

We discuss the design and construction of a Faraday isolator for diode laser spectroscopy using commercially available components. The design involves modelling the magnetic field of an assembly of cylindrical magnets and verifying the predictions using a sensor. We obtain an isolation ratio for optical feedback of ∼35 dB at a wavelength of 780 nm. The cost is approximately one-fourth the cost of an equivalent commercially available device. We expect that the design can be widely used in experiments in laser spectroscopy and in advanced undergraduate laboratory experiments.PACS Nos.: 01.50.Pa, 32.80.Pj, 39.25.+k, 42.62.Fi
Atomic compression of the light element plasma to very high densities
Authors: Frolov Alexei M
Published: November 2006

The basic atomic principles that are critically important for the workability of actual fusion devices are considered. In particular, we discuss the central idea of atomic compression. The atomic compression means self-compression of the light-element plasma that is placed in an isolated cavity with a very hot plasma of heavy elements. The related radiation-driven ablative implosion of the cold light-element thermonuclear fuel is also briefly reviewed. We also discuss the secondary atomic compression that is used to improve thermonuclear combustion in the light-element plasma. A possibility to create thermonuclear explosive devices in which electromagnetic vacuum becomes unstable is analyzed briefly.PACS Nos.: 28.25.Cx, 28.50.Re, 52.50.Jm