bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical Impact of Aluminum Alloy Gas Cylinder Pressurized with Oxygen
Authors: Chiffoleau G , Newton B , Holroyd NJH , Havercroft S
Published: March 2006

Over the past 30 years a handful of fires in medical oxygen high pressure gas storage systems involving aluminum alloy cylinders have been deemed to be associated with mechanical impact-induced ignition of a contaminated system. For example, hydrocarbon contamination and mechanical impact promoted by being dropped during transportation. While the number of these incidents is minuscule compared to the number of systems used in the field, the effect is significant when such an ignition occurs. The kindling chain and initial ignition point of these fires, however, is poorly understood. Although made from more oxygen compatible metallic materials, the cylinder valves attached to these aluminum cylinders contain nonmetallic materials and are in direct contact with the cylinder threads, which are the thinnest cross section of the cylinder. A mechanical impact test was developed to investigate the conditions required to cause ignition of a cylinder and valve assembly by this ignition mechanism, with and without a wide range of controlled contaminants. Specially prepared small cylinders were assembled with commonly used brass cylinder valves and positioned under a drop tower capable of delivering energies up to 434 J (320 ft·lb). Cylinder assemblies were tested with various orientation and impact points including the cylinder valves and no ignitions were recorded in a total of 23 tests.
Proficiency Testing for Evaluating Aerospace Materials Test Anomalies
Authors: Hirsch D , Motto S , Peyton G , Beeson H
Published: March 2006

ASTM G 86 “Standard Test Method for Determining Ignition Sensitivity of Materials to Mechanical Impact in Ambient Pressure Liquid Oxygen and Pressurized Liquid and Gaseous Oxygen” and ASTM G 74 “Standard Test Method for Ignition Sensitivity of Materials to Gaseous Fluid Impact” are commonly used to evaluate materials susceptibility to ignition in liquid and gaseous oxygen systems. However, the methods have been known for their lack of repeatability. The inherent problems identified with the test logic would either not allow precise identification or the magnitude of problems related to running the tests, such as lack of consistency of systems performance, lack of adherence to procedures, etc. Excessive variability leads to increasing instances of accepting the null hypothesis erroneously, and so to the false logical deduction that problems are nonexistent when they really do exist. This paper attempts to develop and recommend an approach that could lead to increased accuracy in problem diagnostics by using the 50 % reactivity point, which has been shown to be more repeatable. The initial tests conducted indicate that PTFE and Viton® A5 (for pneumatic impact) and Buna S (for mechanical impact) would be good choices for additional testing and consideration for interlaboratory evaluations. The approach presented could also be used to evaluate variable effects with increased confidence and tolerance optimization.
Strain Control During High Speed Tensile Testing
Authors: Choi I , Lee S , Matlock DK , Speer JG
Published: March 2006

Mechanical properties of transition-induced plasticity steels depend on the possible variations in the complex microstructures, such as the shape, volume fraction, stability, and chemical composition of retained austenite. The effect of retained austenite stability on martensitic transformation is important, and can be evaluated in low strain rate testing conditions by stopping the deformation during testing. However, it is much more difficult to stop the test during a high speed dynamic tensile test. Hence, it was necessary to develop a method to stop a test during high speed deformation. An instrument was designed to attach to the sample to limit the strain during high speed tensile test and the applicability of the system was evaluated over the strain rate range of 10−2 to 102 s−1. This instrument was found to be successful in allowing controlled amounts of tensile strain to be imparted to a specimen under dynamic test conditions.
Surface Roughness Measurement Using Laser Speckle Statistical Analysis
Authors: Seif MA , Rawwash M
Published: March 2006

This work represents a noncontact nondestructive technique for surface roughness measurement. The technique is based on investigating the statistical properties of the speckle patterns that are developed whenever a surface is illuminated with a highly coherent light source such as a laser. The main objective is to correlate the sizes of the speckles with their light intensities to the surface roughness and profile. Different statistical approaches and correlation analysis have been implemented. Spatial data analysis, or variogram analysis, has been used to develop the relationship between observations taken at various locations. Among the other advantages of such an approach, this technique is simple to implement and suitable for operation in a manufacturing environment.
Studying of the Dynamic Behavior of Pile Cushioning Materials in Pile Driving
Authors: Zhou L , Lao W
Published: March 2006

The dynamic behavior of cushioning materials such as hardwood, particle board, pinewood, asbestos-rubber board, and disk springs are fully characterized by different experimental methods. These include static elastic modulus by static loading, dynamic elastic modulus by natural frequency using the cantilever method, dynamic stress-strain curve method, dynamic recovery coefficient by normal impact between a spherule and a plate, and the pile-driving test in a sand pit. The experimental results show that the relationships between dynamic stresses and strains of the pinewood and asbestos-rubber board are quite different compared with the static ones and subsequently result in greater elastic modulus and recovery coefficients. In comparison to the minor effect on reducing pile-driving stresses of the pile body for pinewood, disk springs are a preferred cushioning material because of their stable dynamic properties that can greatly reduce the driving compressive stresses of the pile body.
Hydrophilic Characterization of Automotive Brake Fluid
Authors: Kao M-J , Tien D-C , Ting C-C , Tsung T-T
Published: March 2006

This paper presents significant experimental data for hydrophilic characterization of automotive brake fluids. A novel technique is developed for these measurements. Because brake fluid is well known as a hygroscopic fluid, its molecular O-H structure easily allows hydrogen bonding with hydromolecules, e.g., H2O. The moist brake fluid reduces the boiling point and moreover causes the deterioration of the functionality of the brake system. A proximal linear relationship between moisture content and its corresponding resistance for DOT3 brake fluid is found in this study, which uses the signal input of the electronic control unit (ECU) of the brake system. The applied technology of measurement is especially developed in the laboratory, which consists of two functions; the moisture meter and the automatic prewarning system. This instrument changes the controlling conception of a brake system from a passive regular check of brake fluid to an active prewarning for the drivers.
Moralische Wahrheit und moralisches Wissen. Plädoyer für einen sparsamen Wahrheitsbegriff in der Metaethik
Authors: Schrader Ralph
Published: March 2006

Im Anschluss an eine Kritik von Habermas' Unterscheidung der Geltungsansprüche der Wahrheit und Richtigkeit vertritt der Autor die These, dass normative und evaluative Aussagen in prinzipiell gleicher Weise als wahr und objektiv betrachtet werden können wie deskriptive. Gezielt wird auf einen moralischen Objektivismus und eine schwache Variante des moralischen Realismus, starke ontologische Folgerungen werden allerdings nicht gezogen. Hauptsächlich diskutiert werden die metaethischen Arbeiten von Crispin Wright, Hilary Putnam und John McDowell.
Auf der Suche nach der ästhetischen Erfahrung. Von der Analyse zum Eros
Authors: Shusterman Richard
Published: March 2006

Durch eine Untersuchung der verschiedenen Konzeptionen und Elemente, die im Begriff der ästhetischen Erfahrung angelegt sind, und durch die Unterscheidung der mit ihnen verbundenen Logiken und Ziele versucht der Beitrag, zu einem besseren Verständnis der vielfältigen semantischen und evaluativen Dimensionen dieses Begriffs zu gelangen. Dabei wird zudem für eine Anerkennung der ästhetischen Dimension sexueller (oder erotischer) Erfahrungen plädiert, die gewöhnlich aus dem Bereich der ästhetischen Erfahrung ausgeschlossen werden.
Über den Neid. Eine phänomenologische Untersuchung
Authors: Vendrell Ferran Íngrid
Published: March 2006

Der Aufsatz unternimmt eine phänomenologische Analyse des Neides. Was ist Neid? Wie unterscheidet sich Neid von ähnlichen Emotionen? Was sind seine Hauptmerkmale? Was wird geneidet, und wen beneiden wir? Diese Fragen dienen als Ausgangspunkt der Untersuchung. In ihrem Verlauf richtet die Autorin ihre Aufmerksamkeit auf die Persönlichkeitsstruktur, die für den Neid charakteristisch ist, und untersucht einen extremen Fall der Emotion: den ontologischen Neid oder Existenzialneid.
Die Welt eines Films
Authors: Conant James
Published: March 2006

Am Beispiel des Films „Lady in the Lake” (1947) führt der Aufsatz Aspekte vor, die die Welt eines Films auszeichnen. „Lady in the Lake”, argumentiert der Autor, scheitert in fundamentaler Hinsicht daran, ein Film zu sein. Bei der Beschreibung dieses Scheiterns werde deutlich, was einen Film ausmache. Der Kern des Scheiterns bestehe darin, dass es „Lady in the Lake” nicht gelinge, dem Zuschauer die Erfahrung einer visuellen Absorption zu ermöglichen. Dadurch, dass die Schauspieler im Film den Zuschauer direkt adressieren, unterminieren sie das Vermögen des Zuschauers, sie als Figuren wahrzunehmen, die die narrative Welt eines Films bewohnen.
Formvergleich zweier Objekte an unterschiedlichen Standorten mit digitaler Holografie (Shape Comparison between two Objects at Different Locations with Digital Holography)
Authors: Baumbach Torsten , Kopylow Christoph von , Jüptner Werner , Osten Wolfgang
Published: March 2006

In diesem Beitrag wird ein neues Verfahren zum Zweck des interferometrischen Formvergleichs mit einem nominell identischen Objekt vorgestellt. Bei dem Verfahren wird nicht vorausgesetzt, dass die zu vergleichenden Objekte dieselbe Mikrostruktur der Oberfläche aufweisen und am selben Ort physisch vorhanden sind. Durch die Anwendung der digitalen Holografie in Verbindung mit elektrisch ansteuerbaren Lichtmodulatoren zur optischen Rekonstruktion von digitalen Hologrammen ergeben sich neue Möglichkeiten der aktiven Wellenfrontmodifikation.
Analogue and Digital Holography: Absolute and Comparative Measurements and Measuring Range Extension (Analoge und Digitale Holografie: Absolute und vergleichende Messungen sowie Messbereichserweiterungen)
Authors: Füzessy Zoltan , Gyimesi Ferenc , Kornis Janos , Raczkevi Bela , Borbely Venczel , Gombkötö Balazs
Published: March 2006

In the paper a brief survey of research at the Department is given that had a twofold aim: to support the project DISCO in indirect and direct ways as well. In this respect the physical state of the art of the analogue basis of DISCO is discussed: principle of the comparative technique named difference holographic interferometry (DHI) is analysed and applications for comparative deformation and shape control in analogue holography are presented. Peculiarities of holographic illumination as well as requirements for repositioning of the master and test objects at comparative measurements are treated. Investigations of the measuring range extension in holographic interferometry are described. Detailed analysis is devoted to the puzzle-read-out extension technique. Finally, application of the principles of DHI in comparative deformation control by digital holography and the developed portable laboratory device for comparative deformation control are presented.
Spatial Light Modulators Based on Reflective Micro-Displays (Auf reflektiven Mikrodisplays basierende SMLs (Spatial Light Modulators))
Authors: Osten Stefan , Krüger Sven , Steinhoff Alexander
Published: March 2006

Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) systems for phase modulation of coherent light sources are mainly MEMS- (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) or LCD- (Liquid Crystal Display) based. Driving forces for this technology are mainly the consumer electronics industry leading to high-resolution reflective micro-displays. These days panels with 1920 × 1200 pixel are available. The pixel pitch goes down to 8 microns, the devices can handle also high power applications and show an almost analogue modulation of the light either in amplitude or phase.

The phase modulating properties of these devices enable a light efficient optical reconstruction of digital holographic data or active wave front control.
Generation and Characterization of Functional Cardiomyocytes from Rhesus Monkey Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Schwanke Kristin , Wunderlich Stephanie , Reppel Michael , Winkler Monica E. , Matzkies Matthias , Groos Stephanie , Itskovitz-Eldor Joseph , Simon André R. , Hescheler Jürgen , Haverich Axel , Martin Ulrich
Published: March 2006

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) from mice and humans (hESCs) have been shown to be able to efficiently differentiate toward cardiomyocytes (CMs). Because murine ESCs and hESCs do not allow for establishment of pre-clinical allogeneic transplantation models, the aim of our study was to generate functional CMs from rhesus monkey ESCs (rESCs). Although formation of ectodermal and neuronal/glial cells appears to be the default pathway of the rESC line R366.4, we were able to change this commitment and to direct generation of endodermal/mesodermal cells and further differentiation toward CMs. Differentiation of rESCs resulted in an average of 18% of spontaneously contracting embryoid bodies (EBs) from rESCs. Semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analyses demonstrated expression of marker genes typical for endoderm, mesoderm, cardiac mesoderm, and CMs, including brachyury, goosecoid, Tbx-5, Tbx-20, Mesp1, Nkx2.5, GATA-4, FOG-2, Mlc2a, MLC2v, ANF, and α-MHC in rESC-derived CMs. Immunohistological and ultrastructural studies showed expression of CM-typical proteins, including sarcomeric actinin, troponin T, titin, connexin 43, and cross-striated muscle fibrils. Electrophysiological studies by means of multielectrode arrays revealed evidence of functionality, electrical coupling, and β-adrenergic signaling of the generated CMs. This is the first study demonstrating generation of functional CMs derived from rESCs. In contrast to hESCs, rESCs allow for establishment of pre-clinical allogeneic transplantation models. Moreover, rESC-derived CMs represent a cell source for the development of high-throughput assays for cardiac safety pharmacology.
Neural Precursors Derived from Embryonic Stem Cells, but Not Those from Fetal Ventral Mesencephalon, Maintain the Potential to Differentiate into Dopaminergic Neurons After Expansion In Vitro
Authors: Chung Sangmi , Shin Byoung-Soo , Hwang Michelle , Lardaro Thomas , Kang Un Jung , Isacson Ole , Kim Kwang-Soo
Published: March 2006

Neural precursors (NPs) derived from ventral mesencephalon (VM) normally generate dopaminergic (DA) neurons in vivo but lose their potential to differentiate into DA neurons during mitogenic expansion in vitro, hampering their efficient use as a transplantable and experimental cell source. Because embryonic stem (ES) cell-derived NPs (ES NP) do not go through the same maturation process during in vitro expansion, we hypothesized that expanded ES NPs may maintain their potential to differentiate into DA neurons. To address this, we expanded NPs derived from mouse embryonic day-12.5 (E12.5) VM or ES cells and compared their developmental properties. Interestingly, expanded ES NPs fully sustain their ability to differentiate to the neuronal as well as to the DA fate. In sharp contrast, VM NPs almost completely lost their ability to become neurons and tyrosine hydroxylase-positive (TH+) neurons after expansion. Expanded ES NP-derived TH+ neurons coexpressed additional DA markers such as dopa decarboxylase and DAT (dopamine transporter). Furthermore, they also expressed other midbrain DA markers, including Nurr1 and Pitx3, and released significant amounts of DA. We also found that these ES NPs can be cryopreserved without losing their proliferative and developmental potential. Finally, we tested the in vivo characteristics of the expanded NPs derived from J1 ES cells with low passage number. When transplanted into the mouse striatum, the expanded NPs as well as control NPs efficiently generated DA neurons expressing mature DA markers, with approximately 10% tumor formation in both cases. We conclude that ES NPs maintain their developmental potential during in vitro expansion, whereas mouse E12.5 VM NPs do not.
Building a reusable test collection for question answering
Authors: Lin Jimmy , Katz Boris
Published: March 2006

In contrast to traditional information retrieval systems, which return ranked lists of documents that users must manually browse through, a question answering system attempts to directly answer natural language questions posed by the user. Although such systems possess language‐processing capabilities, they still rely on traditional document retrieval techniques to generate an initial candidate set of documents. In this article, the authors argue that document retrieval for question answering represents a task different from retrieving documents in response to more general retrospective information needs. Thus, to guide future system development, specialized question answering test collections must be constructed. They show that the current evaluation resources have major shortcomings; to remedy the situation, they have manually created a small, reusable question answering test collection for research purposes. In this article they describe their methodology for building this test collection and discuss issues they encountered regarding the notion of “answer correctness.”
Cellular toxicity of oxycholesterols
Authors: Wielkoszyński Tomasz , Gawron Katarzyna , Strzelczyk Joanna , Bodzek Piotr , Zalewska‐Ziob Marzena , Trapp Gizela , Srebniak Małgorzata , Wiczkowski Andrzej
Published: March 2006

Oxycholesterols (OS) are formed from cholesterol or its immediate precursors by enzymatic or free radical action in vivo, or they may be derived from food. OS exhibit a wide spectrum of biological activities. In OS cytotoxicity, several mechanisms seem to be involved: e.g. inhibition of HMG‐CoA reductase activity, antiproliferative action, apoptosis induction, replacement of cholesterol by OS in membranes followed by changes in cellular membrane structure and functionality, and immune system functions alteration. Furthermore, OS may be mutagenic and carcinogenic and may serve as intracellular signaling or regulatory molecules. Here we review OS cellular activities with special attention to the cytotoxic action in vivo and in vitro using experimental models. BioEssays 28: 387–398, 2006. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Unbalanced alternative splicing and its significance in cancer
Authors: Venables Julian P.
Published: March 2006

Alternative pre‐mRNA splicing leads to distinct products of gene expression in development and disease. Antagonistic splice variants of genes involved in differentiation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis often exist in a delicate equilibrium that is found to be perturbed in tumours. In several recent examples, splice variants that are overexpressed in cancer are expressed as hyper‐oncogenic proteins, which often correlate with poor prognosis, thus suggesting improved diagnosis and follow up treatment. Global gene expression technologies are just beginning to decipher the interplay between alternatively spliced isoforms and protein‐splicing factors that will lead to identification of the mutations in these trans‐acting factors responsible for pathogenic alternative splicing in cancer. BioEssays 28: 378–386, 2006. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determinants of immediate and long‐term results of subclavian and innominate artery angioplasty
Authors: Przewlocki Tadeusz , Kablak‐Ziembicka Anna , Pieniazek Piotr , Musialek Piotr , Kadzielski Andrzej , Zalewski Jaroslaw , Kozanecki Artur , Tracz Wieslawa
Published: March 2006

Background: Percutaneous angioplasty (PTA) is widely used in the treatment of subclavian/innominate artery obstruction, but factors of long‐term PTA outcome are poorly understood. Our aim was to evaluate the efficiency of PTA on symptom resolution and identify determinants of long‐term outcome. Methods and Results: Seventy‐six lesions were treated in 75 patients (58.7% men) aged 60 ± 8.5 years. PTA was successful in 70 (93.3%) patients, including 58/58 (100%) stenotic lesions and 13/18 (72.2%) occlusions. The mean stenosis grade (QCA) was reduced from 78.9% ± 16.6% to 13.5% ± 10.7% (P < 0.01). A great majority of lesions (87.1%) were stented. In 5 (7.1%) high‐risk lesions a proximal or distal neuroprotection system was used. There were no strokes or embolic events. Minor complications occurred in 7 (9.3%) cases. Fifty‐seven (89%) of 64 symptomatic patients had complete symptom resolution. The mean follow‐up was 24.4 ± 15.5 months (up to 66 months). Ten restenoses (15.6%), including 9 (13.8%) in‐stent restenoses and 1 (16.7%) restenosis after balloon angioplasty, were diagnosed in 64 patients and followed up for at least 6 months. Nine symptomatic restenoses were successfully treated with repeated angioplasty. Cox multivariable analysis revealed the following independent predictors of restenosis: implantation of more than one stent (P = 0.005), low stent diameter (P = 0.088), and postprocedural systolic blood pressure difference between upper extremities (P = 0.044). Conclusions: PTA is a safe and effective method for the treatment of the subclavian/innominate artery obstruction and leads to symptom resolution in majority of patients. Restenosis is not frequent and it can be effectively treated with repeat angioplasty. Low stent diameter, implantation of two stents, and upper limb systolic blood pressure difference are independent predictors of restenosis. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel Zwitterionic Reverse Micelles for Encapsulation of Proteins in Low‐Viscosity Media
Authors: Doussin Sylvain , Birlirakis Nicolas , Georgin Dominique , Taran Frédéric , Berthault Patrick
Published: March 2006

Large proteins remain inaccessible to structural NMR studies because of their unfavorable relaxation properties. Their solubilization in the aqueous core of reverse micelles, in a low‐viscosity medium, represents a promising approach, provided that their native tertiary structure is maintained. However, the use of classical ionic surfactants may lead to protein unfolding, due to strong electrostatic interactions between the polar head groups and the protein charges. To design reverse micelles in which these interactions are weakened, a new zwitterionic surfactant molecule was synthesized and studied by high‐resolution NMR spectroscopy, for which cytochrome C and 15N‐labeled ubiquitin were used as guest candidates. At different ionization states, both proteins are encapsulated in the absence of salts or other additives, in a folded conformation similar to the native one.
Effect of Triumphetta cordifolia on body weight and blood lipids in normolipidemic guinea pigs
Authors: Ngondi J.L. , Makamto S.C. , Etame S.L. , Oben J.
Published: March 2006

This study was performed to investigate whether an aqueous extract of Triumphetta cordifolia (75 mg/kg) could prevent obesity and hyperlipemia in guinea pigs receiving 1 ml palm kernel oil extract once a day p.o. for 21 days. The effect was assessed by measuring the body weight gain, plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL‐cholesterol levels as well as liver cholesterol. Oral treatment with the aqueous extract of Triumphetta cordifolia reduced body weight after 7 days of treatment (7.42±2.9%) and 12.7±3.4% (P< 0.01) at 21 days. Triglyceride levels of Triumphetta cordifolia and normal control group were lower than control (P<0.05). The aqueous extract of Triumphetta cordifolia induced showed a weight loss and anti‐hyperlipemic properties. Drug Dev. Res. 66:200–203, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparation and evaluation of glycyrrhetic acid‐containing microparticles as an anti‐hepatotoxic system
Authors: Onishi Hiraku , Takahashi Hiroaki , Machida Yoshiharu
Published: March 2006

Microparticulate dosage forms for liver‐specific delivery of a liver‐protective drug, glycyrrhetic acid (GLA), were prepared and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Poly(DL‐lactic acid‐co‐glycolic acid (7:3, mol/mol)) microparticles, produced by the combination of emulsification‐solvent evaporation and sonication and washed using the mixture of methanol‐phosphate buffered saline pH 7.4 (3:7, v/v), showed a diameter of approximately 1.0 µm, moderate drug content, and prolonged drug release, and were used for in vivo analyses. The long‐term pharmacokinetic profiles in plasma and liver were investigated after i.v. administration. The microparticles gave much higher GLA concentration in the liver than did GLA solution, and maintained plasma and liver concentrations of GLA at levels of >1 and 3 mg/mL, respectively, for at least 6 days. Furthermore, therapeutic effect against consecutive carbon tetrachloride‐induced murine hepatitis was evaluated based on the plasma level of glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (GOT) after i.v. administration. The microparticles with 10 mg GLA maintained liver‐protective effect for approximately 1 week, while the GLA solution with the same dose was scarcely effective from 3 days after the administration. These data suggest that the microparticles should be useful as a prolonged liver‐protective system. Drug Dev. Res. 66:189–199, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interferon regulatory factor‐1 gene deletion decreases glomerulonephritis in MRL/lpr mice
Authors: Reilly Christopher M. , Olgun Selen , Goodwin David , Gogal Robert M. , Santo Arben , Romesburg Jason W. , Ansar Ahmed S. , Gilkeson Gary S.
Published: March 2006

To investigate the role of interferon regulatory factor‐1 (IRF‐1) in the development of lupus nephritis, IRF‐1–/– genotype mice were bred onto the MRL/lpJfaslpr (MRL/lpr) background. We examined kidney mesangial cell function and disease progression. Endpoints evaluated included inflammatory mediators, autoantibody production, immune complex deposition, renal pathology, T cell subset analysis, and duration of survival. Mesangial cells cultured from IRF‐1–/– mice produced significantly lower levels of nitric oxide and IL‐12 but not TNF‐α when stimulated with LPS + IFN‐γ. IRF‐1–/– mice showed less aggravated dermatitis compared to the wild‐type mice. Anti‐double‐stranded DNA production and proteinuria were significantly decreased in IRF‐1–/– mice compared to IRF‐1+/+ mice. IgG and C3 deposition as well as glomerulonephritis were decreased in IRF‐1–/– mice at 26 wk of age compared to the IRF‐1+/+ mice. Splenic CD4–CD8–CD44+ T cells were decreased while CD4+CD25+ T cells were increased in the IRF‐1–/– mice when compared to IRF‐1+/+ mice. Survival rates (ED50) were 22 wk for IRF‐1+/+ mice and 45 wk for IRF‐1–/– mice. These findings suggest an important role of IRF‐1 in mediating renal disease in MRL/lpr mice.
Efficient sorting of TNF‐alpha to rodent mast cell granules is dependent on N‐linked glycosylation
Authors: Olszewski Maciej B. , Trzaska Dominika , Knol Edward F. , Adamczewska Violetta , Dastych Jaroslaw
Published: March 2006

Mast cells play an important role at the early stages of immunological response to bacterial infections and parasite infestations. One of the major mast cell proinflammatory mediators is TNF‐α. Mast cells are considered the only cells capable of storing TNF‐α in cytoplasmic granules and rapidly releasing it upon activation. To determine what pathway is utilized to direct TNF‐α to cytoplasmic granules and what motifs are responsible for the sorting process, we constructed a fusion protein covering the full sequence of TNF‐α, N‐terminally fused to enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). In rodent mast cells, such protein was sorted to secretory granules, and this process was inhibited by both brefeldin A and monensin. Considering the relationship between lysosomes and secretory granules and following TNF‐α sequence analysis, it was determined whether TNF‐α is sorted through the mannose‐6‐phosphate receptor (MPR)‐dependent pathway. We observed that ammonium chloride and tunicamycin blocked TNF‐α‐EGFP fusion protein delivery to secretory granules. In situ mutagenesis experiments confirmed the necessity of N‐linked glycosylation for efficient sorting of TNF‐α into rodent mast cell granules. In this work we established that TNF‐α travels from the ER to mast cell granules via a brefeldin A‐ and monensin‐sensitive route, utilizing the MPR‐dependent pathway, although this dependency does not seem to be absolute.
NK cell‐mediated immunopathology during an acute viral infection of the CNS
Authors: Alsharifi Mohammed , Lobigs Mario , Simon Markus M. , Kersten Astrid , Müller Klaus , Koskinen Aulikki , Lee Eva , Müllbacher Arno
Published: March 2006

Natural killer (NK) and cytotoxic T (Tc) cells are prime effector populations in the antiviral response of the host. Tc cells are essential for recovery from many viral diseases but may also be responsible for immunopathology. The role of NK cells in recovery from viral infections is less well established. We have studied acute virulent Semliki Forest virus (vSFV) infection of the central nervous system in C57BL/6J mice, which was mainly controlled by NK cells without marked Tc cell involvement. We show that mice with defects in the Fas and/or granule exocytosis pathways of cytotoxicity are more resistant to lethal vSFV infection than wild‐type mice. On the other hand, mice defective in the IFN‐γ response are more sensitive than wild‐type mice, whereas mice lacking the Tc cell compartment (β‐2 microglobulin‐deficient mice) exhibit susceptibility similar to wild‐type mice. The additional finding that depletion of NK cells significantly delayed the mean time to death but did not prevent mortality in SFV‐infected B6 mice suggests that cytolytic activity of NK cells is detrimental, while IFN‐γ production is beneficial for recovery from SFV infection. This is the first study illustrating an NK cell‐mediated immunopathological outcome to an acute viral infection.
Modulation of dendritic cell phenotype and functionin an in vitro model of the intestinal epithelium
Authors: Butler Matt , Ng Chi‐Yan , van Heel David A. , Lombardi Giovanna , Lechler Robert , Playford Raymond J. , Ghosh Subrata
Published: March 2006

A network of dendritic cells (DC) can be detected in close proximity to the epithelial cells overlying Peyer's patches in the gut. Intestinal DC show distinct phenotypes as compared to DC from the systemic lymph nodes (relatively low MHC and costimulatory molecules and high IL‐10 and TGFβ) and may play a role in maintaining tolerance to enteric antigens. We show that a similar phenotype is induced in the presence of a polarised epithelial cell monolayer in vitro. Monocyte‐derived DC were co‐cultured with Caco‐2 intestinal epithelial monolayers for 24 h. Co‐culture resulted in DC with reduced expression of MHC class II, CD86, and CD80, and poor T cell stimulatory capacity. Cytokine profiles showed reduced levels of inflammatory cytokine production, and co‐cultured DC were less sensitive to stimulation via Toll‐like receptors (TLR2, 4, and 6) as a result of increased levels of autocrine TGFβ production. However, phenotypic changes in co‐cultured DC could not be blocked by removal of apoptotic cells or addition of anti‐TGFβ antibodies, suggesting that other soluble factors are involved in DC modulation. Thus, polarised epithelial cell monolayers create a ‘tolerogenic’ environment which modulates the activity of DC. These results highlight the regulatory importance of the epithelial microenvironment at mucosal surfaces.
Ten‐Coordinate Neodymium(III) Complexes with Triethylenetetraaminehexaacetic Acid
Authors: Mondry Anna , Starynowicz Przemysław
Published: March 2006

The crystal structures and spectroscopic (IR, Raman, UV/Vis) data for the complexes [C(NH2)3]2[Nd(HTTHA)]·3H2O (I) and [C(NH2)3]3[Nd(TTHA)]·6H2O (II) are presented. Crystals of I are triclinic, P$\bar {1}$, a = 9.998(2), b = 10.730(2), c = 15.557(3) Å, α = 106.89(3)°, β = 90.27(3)°, γ = 93.24(3)°, V = 1594.0(5) Å3, Z = 2, while the chiral crystals of II are monoclinic, P21, a = 10.157(2), b = 15.958(3), c = 12.788(3) Å, β = 112.68(3)°, V = 1912.5(7) Å3, Z = 2. Both structures consist of the complex monomeric anions, guanidinium cations and water of hydration. The NdIII ions are ten‐coordinate. The TTHA ligand coordinates to the NdIII ions with six of its carboxyl oxygen atoms and four nitrogen atoms. Although the coordination environments of both NdIII cations are essentially the same, the spectral results of both crystals reveal the influence of the degree of protonation of the ligand on the NdIII ion. The IR and Raman spectra allowed us to assign some important frequencies. A comparison of the electronic absorption spectra of NdIII–TTHA complexes in solution and in single crystals of I and II allows the detection of a small elongation of the Nd–O and Nd–N bonds in these complexes as compared to the [Nd(TTHA)]3– moiety in the previously reported complex Na3[Nd(TTHA)]·2.5NaClO4·7.617H2O and indicates that the coordination geometry of the ten‐coordinate neodymium complex in solution is the same as in the chiral crystal II. The intensities of the f–f transitions in NdIII–TTHA solutions and of crystals I and II were analysed on the basis of the Judd–Ofelt theory. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Synthesis of a 7‐Deazaguanine‐Functionalized β‐Amino Acid: Improved Specificity of β‐Peptide Helix Organization
Authors: Chakraborty Pradip , Brückner Arndt M. , Diederichsen Ulf
Published: March 2006

Nucleobase‐functionalized β‐peptides are a suitable scaffold for the construction of well‐defined tertiary structures organized by nucleobase pair recognition. Since guanine‐rich oligomers are especially known to form higher aggregates, an enantiomerically pure 7‐deazaguanine (zG)‐functionalized nucleo‐β3‐amino acid was synthesized from a β‐lactam derivative as a key intermediate. Incorporated into β‐peptide 14‐helices it was possible to reduce aggregation phenomena and to increase recognition selectivity. Evidence for base‐pair‐mediated helix recognition was obtained by temperature‐dependent UV and CD spectroscopy. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Development of Novel Glucose and Pyruvate Biosensors at Poly(Neutral Red) Modified Carbon Film Electrodes. Application to Natural Samples
Authors: Ghica Mariana Emilia , Brett Christopher M. A.
Published: March 2006

Amperometric biosensors based on the corresponding oxidase enzyme with poly(neutral red) redox mediator have been developed for the determination of glucose and pyruvate. The enzymes have been immobilized on top of poly(neutral red) modified carbon film electrodes with glutaraldehyde as the cross‐linking agent. The biosensors were characterized by cyclic voltammetry and by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The glucose biosensor exhibited a linear response in the range 90 μM to 1.8 mM with a detection limit of 22 μM and the pyruvate biosensor in the range 90 to 600 μM with a detection limit of 34 μM. The relative standard deviations were found to be 2.1% (n=3) and 2.8% (n=4) respectively. The interference effects of various compounds were also studied. The glucose content of several types of wine and the amount of pyruvate in onion and garlic were determined and the results were compared with those obtained by standard spectrophotometric methods.
Simultaneous Determination of Uric Acid and Ascorbic Acid Using Edge Plane Pyrolytic Graphite Electrodes
Authors: Kachoosangi Roohollah Torabi , Banks Craig E. , Compton Richard G.
Published: March 2006

Edge plane pyrolytic graphite electrodes have been applied for the determination of uric acid and ascorbic acid. The separate determination of uric acid was found to produce three linear ranges from 100 nM to 3400 μM with a detection limit of 30 nM found to be possible. Uric acid detection was also explored in the presence of 200 μM ascorbic acid where a detection limit of 52 nM was found to be possible. The detection of ascorbic acid in the presence of uric acid was also explored over three linear ranges of ascorbic acid with a limit of detection of 80 nM. Last the simultaneous determination of both uric acid and ascorbic acid is investigated over the range 100 nM to 1000 μM where detection limits of 50 nM and 120 nM were obtained respectively. Analysis of uric acid in a growth tissue medium was found to be successful, confirming the applicability of the methodology to real matrices. This protocol is shown to provide low detection limits, easy handling (no electrode modification), good voltammetric peak separation of uric acid and ascorbic acid and a wide linear dynamic range.
Synthesis and olfactory properties of 2‐alkylalkanals, analogues of 2‐methylundecanal
Authors: Gibka Julia , Gliński Marek
Published: March 2006

A series of 2‐alkylalkanals containing 14 carbon atoms was obtained in a two‐step synthesis starting from tridecan‐x‐ones, (x = 2–6) in the Darzens reaction. In the first step, 1‐carbomethoxy‐2,2‐dialkyl oxiranes (glycidyl esters) were synthesized with moderate yields (27–49%) in the reaction between ketone and methyl chloroacetate in the presence of sodium t‐butoxide. The esters derived from tridecan‐2‐one and tridecan‐3‐one have pleasant, fruity wild‐strawberry odours, while the others are almost odourless. In the second step, the hydrolysis of the obtained esters was performed and their subsequent decarboxylation led to the formation of 2‐alkylalkanals with good or moderate yields (65–39%). The odour characteristics of these aldehydes are quite similar to that of 2‐methylundecanal (MNA). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping the functional anatomy of task preparation: Priming task‐appropriate brain networks
Authors: Fassbender Catherine , Foxe John J. , Garavan Hugh
Published: March 2006

The present study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a cued version of a flanker paradigm to elucidate the effects of task preparation on subsequent brain activation patterns. A mixed block and event‐related design was employed to examine activations associated with the cue periods themselves and the cued and un‐cued correct responses to incongruent flankers. A number of areas were active during the cues, most notably left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), which was interpreted as subserving a role in task‐set maintenance. Widespread activity was noted for correct responses to incongruent flankers, including bilateral parietal and frontal regions, consistent with previous studies. Activation was increased in these regions for correct responses after cue periods. An overlapping network of regions was also noted for cues and correct responses, suggesting preparation of task‐appropriate anatomical regions during the cue period. These results suggest that cue periods allow participants to prime task‐relevant areas within the brain and highlight the importance of left DLPFC in top‐down control. Hum Brain Mapp, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Issues in World Commission on Dams report development: inconsistencies between the facts found and the guidelines
Authors: Nakayama Mikiyasu , Fujikura Ryo
Published: March 2006

The World Commission on Dams (WCD) is an international and independent body consisting of 12 dam experts. It published its only and final report ‘Dams and Development’ in November 2000 after 2·5 years of preparation. The report is composed of two parts: part I contains the facts found and part II contains recommendations. The aim of part I was to present solid facts about both the benefits and the costs of building dams. The aim of part II is not as clear to the authors. Many members of the media in developed nations believed that part II proposed a concrete set of guidelines, a blueprint for the future. This perception was shared with many environmentally concerned non‐governmental organizations, who regarded the guidelines in part II as a blueprint to be observed. However, in February 2001, the Chair of the WCD stated that the guidelines were intended only to offer guidance, and are not a rigid regulatory framework. The question to be asked and answered is whether the guidelines in part II may be regarded as a rigid framework to be implemented as it stands. The authors do not regard the guidelines in part II as ready for implementation, as this part of the report has many shortcomings, which stem from a ‘missing link’ between part I and part II, in that the latter does not reflect the findings in the former. Moreover, part II of the report includes some suggestions that are not based on findings in part I. This paper tries to answer the following questions about the WCD's report: (1) Why was the set of guidelines in part II regarded as the blueprint by so many people and institutions? (2) What ‘incompatibilities’ exist between the two parts of the report? (3) Why were such incompatibilities mostly disregarded in developing the report? (4) How may the set of suggested guidelines in part II become an operational instrument. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of decision‐making indicators for ecosystem‐based river basin management
Authors: Nakamura Takehiro
Published: March 2006

The use of a set of indicators is proposed for the purpose of making an effective decision within an ecosystem‐based approach to river basin management. The indicators are selected to reflect and represent hydrological, geochemical, ecological and socio‐economic functions identified as relevant ecosystem functions and services included in the target river basin. Depending on the river basin management objectives, these indicators are defined and then weighted. The ecosystem function index is formulated using the weighted indicators, and indicates proposed management options within the framework of the ecosystem‐based river basin management regarding the management objectives. The ecosystem function index is intended to represent the ecosystem vulnerability and resilience to pressures and threats caused by human intervention within the specific river basin. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transpiration from a Cryptomeria japonica plantation, part 1: aerodynamic control of transpiration
Authors: Komatsu Hikaru , Kang Yihuei , Kume Tomonori , Yoshifuji Natsuko , Hotta Norifumi
Published: March 2006

To our knowledge, no one has examined the canopy conductance of a Cryptomeria japonica plantation, although such forests are very common in Japan. We plan to examine the canopy conductance of a Cryptomeria japonica plantation (canopy height 8 m) based on 1‐year sap‐flow data using the simplified Penman–Monteith equation. This study examines the effect of the aerodynamic control of transpiration before calculating canopy conductance using the simplified Penman–Monteith equation, because the equation assumes that the effect of aerodynamic control is negligible. To examine the effect of aerodynamic control, we examined the dependency of the relationship between the vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and transpiration on wind speed, when solar radiation, air temperature, and soil water content do not limit transpiration greatly. The relationship between VPD and the heat pulse velocity measured 11 m above the ground was dependent on wind speed only when the wind speed was <0·7 m s−1. This suggests that the effect of aerodynamic control was negligible when the wind speed was ≥0·7 m s−1, but that the effect was not negligible when the wind speed was <0·7 m s−1. Therefore, we should use data from when the wind speed was ≥0·7 m s−1 for calculating canopy conductance Gc, based on the simplified Penman–Monteith equation. Although this criterion is site specific, the methods used to develop it are applicable to other sites. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transpiration from a Cryptomeria japonica plantation, part 2: responses of canopy conductance to meteorological factors
Authors: Komatsu Hikaru , Kang Yihuei , Kume Tomonori , Yoshifuji Natsuko , Hotta Norifumi
Published: March 2006

To our knowledge, there is no information on the canopy conductance of Cryptomeria japonica plantations, although such forests are very common in Japan. We examined the canopy conductance Gc of a C. japonica plantation based on 1‐year sap‐flow data using the simplified Penman–Monteith equation. After selecting data based on the criterion proposed in part 1 of this study (Komatsu et al., 2006. Hydrological Processes 20: this issue), we now examine Gc responses to meteorological factors.

Gc was expressed using functions of solar radiation S (W m−2), the vapour pressure deficit D (kPa), and air temperature T ( °C). The resulting functions were f1(S) = [(1000 + 30)S]/[1000(S + 30)], f2(D) = exp(−0·54D)/exp(−0·54), and f3(T) = {[(30 − 5) + 14](T − 5)}/{(30 − 5)[(T − 5) + 14]}, where f1(S), f2(D), and f3(T) are functions expressing the Gc responses to S, D, and T respectively. The functions were characterized by comparing general functions for coniferous forests, which showed that it was necessary to consider f3(T) to reproduce the 1‐year transpiration at the site, and that f1(S) and f2(D) determined here were not very different from the general functions.

This paper is the first to determine Gc responses to meteorological factors for a C. japonica plantation. When predicting transpiration from a C. japonica plantation using hydrological or ecological models, the functions determined here should be used instead of the default functions of the models. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decrease of river runoff in the Lake Balkhash basin in Central Asia
Authors: Kezer Kader , Matsuyama Hiroshi
Published: March 2006

The decrease of river runoff draining into Lake Balkhash in Central Asia was investigated using hydrological and meteorological data over a long‐term period. The data from the difference integral curves of the annual runoff from 1911 to 1986 suggested that a low‐flow period began in 1970 in the River Ili, and in 1973 in the east rivers, continuing until 1986. Compared with the runoff before 1969, the decrease of runoff in the upper reaches of the River Ili was less than those in the middle and lower reaches. The decrease in the upper reaches resulted from natural variability, whereas those of the middle and lower reaches were due to a combination of the effects of climate and human activity. There are two reasons for this. First, after 1970, precipitation did not decrease uniformly across the entire basin. Second, in 1970, the Kapchagay dam started operating. As a result, the annual inflow into Lake Balkhash from the River Ili after 1970 decreased to 77% of the pre‐1969 mean. Similarly, after 1973, the inflow from the east rivers was 75% of the pre‐1972 mean.

The characteristics of the runoff in the growing season (April to September) and those in the non‐growing season (October to March) were investigated for the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the River Ili. In all reaches, the runoff in the non‐growing season remained unchanged both before and after 1969. However, from 1970 to 1986, decreases of river flow in the growing season were 2·0 to 2·5 times greater in the middle and lower reaches than in the upper reaches. This was primarily due to the impacts of human activity. In conclusion, it can be deduced that the decrease in runoff after 1970 in the middle and lower reaches was the result of human activity during the low‐flow period. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.