bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brachial plexus injury following brachial plexus block
Authors: LIM E. K. , PEREIRA R.
Published: March 2007

A patient developed paralysis over the left upper limb 2 days after an otherwise uneventful supraclavicular brachial plexus block. Symptoms continued for 8 weeks after the block. The various possible causes for this complication are discussed. Although brachial plexus injury following the block is rare, some recommendations are made to reduce the incidence of this complication.
Obstetric analgesia, anasthesia and the Apgar score
Authors: MURPHY J. F. , DAUNCEY M. , REES G. A. D. , ROSEN M. , GRAY O. P.
Published: March 2007

This study examines the changing pattern of maternal analgesia administration during the decade 1970–1979. In addition, the relationship between analgesia, anasthesia and the infant's Apgar score was documented. Approximately 40000 deliveries to South Glamorgan residents were included in the study. Over the two quinquennia 1970–1974 and 1975–1979 the administration of epidural block increased from 5.6% to 17.5%. The Apgar score of babies in the epidural block group was significantly better in the latter period. Respiratory depression following Caesarean section remains a problem. The group delivered by elective Caesarean section contained a substantial proportion of infants with a low Apgar score; 30% had an Apgar score less than 8 and 10% had a score of less than 4. Likely causative factors include undue sensitivity of the infants' respiratory centre and aortocaval compression during surgery.
A new indicator dilution method for the estimation of surgical blood loss
Authors: Freedman Mark
Published: March 2007

The principles of using indicator dilution techniques for the estimation of blood loss on swabs are explained. The feasibility of an intrinsic indicator such as intracellular and extracellular potassium ions was investigated. An empirical mathematical relationship between the total potassium content per litre of whole blood and the haemoglobin concentration of whole blood was established. The correlation between these two variables is statistically highly significant. The derived total potassium content per litre was then used with the indicator dilution technique to calculate the volume of blood lost. The accuracy, sources of error and advantages of the technique are discussed.
Drug absorption after general anasthesia for minor surgery
Authors: REILLY C. S. , NIMMO W. S.
Published: March 2007

Paracetamol absorption after oral adminstration was studied in eleven patients immediately after a short general anasthetic for cystoscopy and also in eight healthy volunteers. There were no statistical differences between the rate of paracetamol absorption in the two groups. This suggests that oral medication may be given immediately following a short general anasthetic when opioid drugs are avoided.
Anasthesia and mediastinal masses A case report and review of the literature
Authors: MACKIE A. M. , WATSON C. B.
Published: March 2007

A case in which a mediastinal tumour caused complications including airway obstruction unrelieved by intubation during inhalational induction is described. Other case reports are reviewed and the anasthetic management of patients with mediastinal tumours is discussed.
Anasthesia in babies with congenital dystrophia myotonica
Authors: BRAY R. J. , INKSTER J. S.
Published: March 2007

The anaesthetic procedures used in two babies with congenital dystrophia myotonica are described, and the problems of providing anaesthesia in patients with the adult and congenital forms of the condition discussed.
High frequency jet ventilation
Authors: HILDEBRAND P. J. , PRAKASH D. , COSGROVE J. , WILSON J. J. , COPPEL D. L.
Published: March 2007

High frequency jet ventilation for thoracic surgery offers some practical advantages over intermittent pressure ventilation using bronchial tubes. Satisfactory blood gases were obtained in 50 patients and good operating conditions were provided.
Postoperative myxoedema
Authors: SHERRY K. M. , HUTCHINSON I. L.
Published: March 2007

The problems encountered in the immediate postoperative period in an undiagnosed myxoedematous patient are reported, the specific management of these problems discussed and the treatment of myxoedema coma outlined. The use of dopamine for cardiovascular support in this situation is commented upon.
Postoperative analgesia: a technique using continuous intravenous infusion of buprenorphine
Authors: Fry E.N.S.
Published: March 2007

A technique of postoperative analgesia using a continuous intravenous infusion of buprenorphine is described.
A brief technique of hypnoanasthesia for children in a casualty department
Authors: Hopayian K.
Published: March 2007

Hypnoanasthesia has been used in the past for the treatment of minor trauma in both adults and children. It is of particular value in the latter. However, the time required limits its application in the Accident and Emergency Department. A brief technique for hypnoanasthesia particularly for children is described, offering a practical solution. A case is reported to illustrate its usefulness.
A role for mitogen‐activated protein kinase and Ets‐1 in the induction of interleukin‐10 transcription by human immunodeficiency virus‐1 Tat
Authors: Li James C. B. , Lau Allan S. Y.
Published: March 2007

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Tat protein has multiple regulatory roles, including trans‐activation of the HIV genome and regulation of immune signalling processes, including kinase activation and cytokine expression. We recently demonstrated that HIV‐1 Tat induces the expression of interleukin (IL)‐10 via p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation. We further delineated that the Tat‐responsive element of the IL‐10 promoter was located within 625 to 595 bp upstream from the transcription start site. Using electrophoretic mobility shift assays, the transcription factors Ets‐1 and Sp‐1 were shown to bind to the IL‐10 promoter to activate transcription of the gene. Furthermore, sequential deletional mutations of the Ets‐1‐ and Sp‐1‐binding sites in the −625/−595 region reduced the DNA binding and transcription activity of the IL‐10 promoter. Our results also showed that both the Tat‐induced and Ets‐1‐regulated IL‐10 promoter‐driven luciferase activity can be abrogated by inhibitors of the p38 MAPK activity. In conclusion, the coordinated activities of p38 MAPK and the transcription factors, Ets‐1 and Sp‐1, may play an important role in the HIV‐1 Tat‐induced IL‐10 transcription.
Association between lamivudine sensitivity and the number of substitutions in the reverse transcriptase region of the hepatitis B virus polymerase
Authors: Fukai K. , Zhang K.Y. , Imazeki F. , Kurihara T. , Mikata R. , Yokosuka O.
Published: March 2007

Summary.  This study aimed to identify the viral factors responsible for poor sensitivity to lamivudine (LAM). We analyzed 49 LAM‐treated chronic hepatitis B patients infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C. Serum HBV DNA reached a level below the detection limit of the sensitive PCR assay in 31 (63.3%) within the first 24 weeks of LAM therapy (good responder group). Of the patients who did not achieve undetectable levels of HBV DNA within 24 weeks (poor responder group), 15 (83.3%) experienced virological breakthrough, whilst only four patients in the good responder group (12.9%) experienced virological breakthrough. Multivariate analysis revealed that failure to achieve a reduction in viral load to undetectable levels within 24 weeks was independently associated with the occurrence of virological breakthrough. Sequence analysis of the HBV genome revealed that point mutations in the precore region (G1896A) and enhancer I (A1287G/C) were observed more frequently in the good responder group than in the poor responder group (P = 0.002 and 0.019 respectively), and the number of substitutions in the reverse transcriptase domain of the polymerase was significantly higher in the good responders than in the poor responders (P = 0.026). In conclusion, determining the sequence of preexisting HBV, especially for enhancer I, the precore region, and the RT domain of the polymerase region, may be useful in predicting sensitivity to LAM therapy.
Successful living related liver transplantation in a case with biliary atresia associated with corrected transposition of the great arteries
Authors: Kimura Takuya , Hasegawa Toshimichi , Ihara Yoshiyuki , Mushiake Sotaro , Kogaki Shigetoyo , Dono Keizo , Fukuzawa Masahiro
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Little is known about the safety of LRLTx in children with end stage liver disease associated with congenital cardiac anomalies. We report the successful LRLTx in a case with extrahepatic biliary atresia associated with cTGA, VSD, and PS. Preoperative cardiac function was evaluated by cardiac echogram and cardiac catheterization. The recipient’s cardiac function was preserved (EF; 54%); however, because of the left to right shunt disease, oxygen saturation was 91%. At operation, carbon dioxide insufflation into the abdominal cavity was attempted to prevent sudden air embolism. Hemodynamic variables were stabilized during partial clamping of the inferior vena cava, and at reperfusion of the portal vein. However, a sudden decrease in blood oxygenation was observed during hepatico‐jejunostomy, which was easily normalized by graft mobilization. Post‐operatively, neither heart failure nor cerebral infarction because of air embolism was observed. In conclusion, together with preserved cardiac function and carbon dioxide insufflation, LRLTx was successful. Further studies are required to establish the algorithm for the strategy of treating both congenital cardiac anomalies and liver failure.
Immediate hypersensitivity to Malassezia furfur in patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Khosravi A. R. , Hedayati M. T. , Mansouri P. , Shokri H. , Moazzeni M.
Published: March 2007

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic pruritic dermatitis that has unknown aetiology. It seems that Malassezia furfur has a role in pathogenesis of AD. The purpose of this study was to evaluate skin responses to M. furfur antigens in AD patients. Malassezia furfur was grown and the yeasts were broken. Cells were centrifuged and supernatants were used as crude extracts (CE). Protein components of CE were separated by sodium dodecylsulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS–PAGE). In addition, to fractionate CE antigens, gel filtration chromatography was performed. One hundred and fifteen AD patients were selected for skin‐prick test (SPT). In SDS–PAGE, CE showed a total of 19 different protein bands (10–100 kDa). Chromatographic gel filtration with M. furfur proteins showed four major fractions (F). The protein pattern of F1 (tube no. 40) was between 22 and 100 kDa and it was selected for SPT. In SPT, 49.6% and 42.6% patients showed positive reactions with CE and F1 antigens respectively. The most positive results were obtained in 20–29 aged group (P < 0.001). The allergens of M. furfur may have a role in AD signs; it is suggested to use F1 antigens in allergy tests.
Opposition Questions
Authors: Parry Geraint
Published: March 2007

‘ONE OF THE PECULIARITIES OF THE SUBJECT OF OPPOSITION IS THAT, although the problem of opposition is one of the oldest, very few works have ever dealt with it specifically and exclusively.’ These introductory remarks to their 1968 volume by Ghiţa Ionescu and Isabel de Madariaga still hold remarkably true, despite a number of subsequent works and collections devoted to the subject. Their explanation was that although opposition is the altera pars of government it is a concept which is necessarily relative to that of power upon which political action centres and around which political science moulds itself.
Opposition in Russia
Authors: Barber John
Published: March 2007

WHILE ‘REPOSITIONING’ MAY BE AN APPROPRIATE TERM TO DESCRIBE developments in political opposition in many contemporary societies, it falls some way short of capturing the significance of changes in Russia, where in a few years the political landscape has changed out of all recognition. Until little more than a decade ago, political opposition in the Soviet Union was barely visible and, with rare exceptions, of little consequence. In the decades following Stalin's death in 1953, the existence of interest groups and lobbies within the party and state apparatuses was persuasively argued by foreign observers; and occasionally fractional opposition within the ruling elite surfaced. The latter aimed at reversing specific policies and, twice, at replacing the country's leader — Khrushchev on both occasions, unsuccessfully in 1957 and successfully in 1964. From the 1960s onwards, dissent from the regime's values and goals was reflected in the statements and actions of individuals and small groups, often described as the ‘Soviet dissident movement’, though lacking either common objectives and strategy, or impact on the Soviet Union's rulers.
Opposition in Japan
Authors: Boyd John
Published: March 2007

FIRST, TWO DISCLAIMERS. DIPLOMATS ARE NOT ACADEMICS. THIS WILL be a personal account, based on some firsthand experience of contemporary Japanese politics (pursued always in terms of the UK interest) supported by some — though not enough — background reading. It will not, however, be an academic text.

The second disclaimer is more complicated. Japan had five different prime ministers during my relatively brief stay in Tokyo. It experienced four coalitions of varying complexions. Fluidity was the name of the game. It challenges ingenuity, to define ‘opposition’ in this context. And it must be right to pay some regard to the culture. To say that times and fashions change is to undersell a more tricky and rewarding set of questions about Japan's political characteristics. This is not just another G7 system. The strength of Japan's culture hits the newcomer to Tokyo like a wave. Moreover, within continuities, Japan has undergone repeated convulsions. Today's political structures draw on domestic as well as foreign traditions, in a subtle mixture.
Opposition in Italy
Authors: Pizzorno Alessandro
Published: March 2007

IN ROBERT DAHL'S ACCOUNT OF THE SUBJECT ‘OPPOSITION’ IS SEEN AS a political actor, opposing the government in parliament, having goals and strategies, being cohesive or not, well identifiable or not, aggressive or less aggressive in its action, and so on. As it is a ‘theory of action’, applying it would necessarily require (as Jean Blondel also shows in his essay) determining the ‘goals’ of the opposition. One would then be able to predict what a certain opposition would probably be doing, and explain why one type of opposition must be classified as different from another. I maintain, however, that the concept of ‘the goals of a political actor’ is a very elusive, and at the very least, an oversimplified concept. Indeed, it is impossible to match it with the facts and operationalize it. The analysis of the Italian case during the First Republic shows this clearly.
Are We All Green Now? Public Opinion on Environmentalism in Britain
Authors: Norris Pippa
Published: March 2007

OWING TO THE GROWTH OF THE GREEN MOVEMENT IN THE 1980S MANY feel that Britain has experienced a cultural revolution on environmental issues. According to conventional wisdom, public opinion has come to reflect a deep-rooted and widespread sense of environmental awareness, with long-term consequences for British politics. Yearley suggests that there has been a significant ‘greening’ of British public opinion in recent years.’ In a series of articles reviewing attitudes towards environmental values, Young concludes that evidence for a culture shift ‘is almost beyond dispute’. Environmentalists commonly make three distinct claims, namely: there has been a growth of public concern about environmental issues; as a result public support for green policies and ideas has increased; in turn this has led to greater environmental activism, including support for the Green Party, involvement in environmental groups and green consumerism.
Governance without Opposition: The Case of the European Union
Authors: Neunreither Karlheinz
Published: March 2007

IT IS NOT EASY TO CHARACTERIZE THE EUROPEAN UNION (EU) AS A political system. The main comprehensive approaches have at least partly failed, and we have to admit that the EU is neither completely neo-functional, nor intergovernmental, nor pre-federal. We may call it sui generis, but this does not carry us very far.

On the other hand, we continue to apply in our analyses of the EU notions which originated in classical national democratic systems. This is true not only for the structures – above all the institutions – but for the processes as well. To add to our dilemma, recent studies on policy-making show us that the EU is far less homogeneous than one might imagine and that there are substantial differences from one policy area to another. But even if the EU is mainly a negotiating system, an authority which is clearly responsible for its outcomes should nevertheless exist. In a classical parliamentary system the government and the parliamentary majority fulfil this function. The minority may mainly oppose the majority and press for alternative solutions, or it may use its influence for reaching a compromise; it is generally agreed that a structured opposition is a constituent part of a democratic political system.
Amery on the Constitution: Britain and the European Union
Authors: Beloff Lord
Published: March 2007

IT WAS ASSUMED BY AMERY THAT THE BRITISH CONSTITUTION WAS AN important topic for study and something which might require further reform, because with the rest of his generation he took it for granted that the Constitution was itself wholly under the control of the British people through their indigenous institutions. Parliamentary sovereignty could only be understood in the light of sovereignty in the sense of political independence. At the time he was writing the importance of this basic concept had been reinforced by recent experience. Many European countries had lost their sovereignty through the imposition of German rule and had only had it restored to them by a massive military effort in which Britain had played no mean part. In their turn, the victorious allies had deprived Germany of its sovereignty and were through the occupation regimes starting on a path which it was hoped would lead, as indeed it did, to a Germany purged of the Nazi virus.
Paradoxes and Opportunism: The Danish Election of March 1998
Authors: Aylott Nicholas
Published: March 2007

THE RESULT OF THE DANISH PARLIAMENTARY ELECTION OF 11 MARCH 1998 could hardly have been closer. It came down to 89 voters in the Faroes: had this number voted for the local centre-right party, rather than the centre-left one, both of the islands' two seats in the Danish Folketing (parliament) would have gone to supporters of the opposition, thus tipping the parliamentary balance. However, because the sister party of the Danish Social Democrats won one of those seats, the incumbent prime minister, Poul Nyrup Rasmussen, managed to confound the predictions of the opinion polls and stay in power, continuing his Social Democrats' coalition with the Social Liberal Party. It remained a minority government; but this is the norm in Denmark's fragmented multi-party system. Moreover, with the presumed support of the parties to the left of the Social Democrats, and with other parties also professing their keenness to cooperate, the chances of a stable government enduring through the rest of the four-year parliamentary term looked bright.
Pharmacokinetics of Levetiracetam during Pregnancy, Delivery, in the Neonatal Period, and Lactation
Authors: Tomson Torbjörn , Palm Ragnar , Källén Kristina , Ben‐Menachem Elinor , Söderfeldt Birgitta , Danielsson Bo , Johansson Rune , Luef Gerhard , Öhman Inger
Published: March 2007

Summary:  Purpose: To study pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam (LEV) during pregnancy, delivery, lactation, and in the neonatal period.

Methods: Fourteen women with epilepsy receiving LEV treatment during pregnancy and lactation contributed with 15 pregnancies to this prospective study in which LEV concentrations in plasma and breast milk were determined. Trough maternal plasma samples were collected each trimester, and at baseline after delivery. Blood samples were obtained at delivery from mothers, from the umbilical cord, and from newborns during 2 days after delivery. LEV concentration was also determined in breast milk and in plasma collected from 11 of the mothers and their suckling infants after birth.

Results: The umbilical cord/maternal plasma concentration ratios ranged from 0.56–2.0 (mean 1.15, n = 13). LEV plasma concentrations in the neonates declined with an estimated half‐life of 18 h (n = 13). The mean milk/maternal plasma concentration ratio was 1.05 (range, 0.78–1.55, n = 11). The infant dose of LEV was estimated to 2.4 mg/kg/day, equivalent to 7.9% of the weight‐normalized maternal dose. Plasma concentrations in breastfed were approximately 13% of the mother's plasma levels. Maternal plasma concentrations during third trimester were only 40% of baseline concentrations outside pregnancy (p < 0.001, n = 7)

Conclusions: Our observations suggest considerable transplacental transport of LEV and fairly slow elimination in the neonate. Plasma concentrations of LEV in nursed infants are low despite an extensive transfer of LEV into breast milk. Pregnancy appears to enhance the elimination of LEV resulting in marked decline in plasma concentration, which suggests that therapeutic monitoring may be of value.
Outcome and Survival in Different Peritoneal Dialysis Modalities
Authors: Al‐Hilali Nabieh , Al‐Humoud Hani , Nampoory Mangalathillam , Ninan Adakethu , Johny Kaivilayil
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Peritoneal dialysis (PD) has been accepted as a treatment option for patients with end‐stage renal disease, yet experience with PD in Arab countries is limited. This study was undertaken to evaluate the outcome and survival of different PD modalities. All patients managed at the Mubarak Al‐Kabeer Hospital Kuwait between August 1982 and December 2003 using PD for three months or more were included in the study. Demographic features, outcome and survival of the patients were analyzed. Four hundred and fifteen patients with end‐stage renal failure were admitted into the PD program. Their mean age was 52.06 ± 16.43 years. Hospital‐based intermittent peritoneal dialysis (IPD), continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), nightly intermittent peritoneal dialysis (NIPD) and continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis (CCPD) were preferred by 203 (48.9%), 176 (42.4%), 30 (7.2%) and 6 (1.4%) patients respectively. The mean duration of follow up was 12.7 ± 11.7 months. Fifty‐five (13.3%) patients were continuing on PD, 55 (13.3%) had shifted to hemodialysis, 73 (17.6%) underwent renal transplantation, 114 (27.5%) died, 34 (8.2%) returned to their native countries, 79 (19%) transferred to other centers and follow up was lost for 5 (1.45%) patients. Patient survival at two years was 56%, 72% and 87% in IPD, CAPD and NIPD respectively. Technique survival at two years was 60.6%, 75.4% and 100% in IPD, CAPD and NIPD respectively. Peritoneal dialysis modalities provide a feasible modality of renal replacement therapy. The overall outcome and patient and technique survival in home PD modalities were better than hospital‐based PD.
A Case Report of Autoimmune Pancreatitis Accompanied With Rapidly Developing Hyperglycemia and Hypertension in a Chronic Hemodialysis Patient
Authors: Wada Kentaro , Shinoda Toshio , Yoshimoto Hiroshi
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  An 81‐year‐old man, with chronic renal failure due to chronic glomerulonephritis on maintenance hemodialysis (HD) for 4.5 years, was admitted to our hospital because of rapidly developing hyperglycemia and hypertension. He had been under good control on HD with no history of hyperglycemia. One month prior to admission he felt thirsty and generally fatigued, but did not inform medical staff of his symptoms. We diagnosed him as suffering from autoimmune pancreatitis (AIMP) associated with secondary diabetes mellitus, according to the typical feature of AIMP on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and an elevated level of serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4). He was treated with insulin and a corticosteroid, following which, the diffuse narrowing of the main pancreatic duct improved and his serum IgG4 level reduced. AIMP is a rare but important complication in HD patients that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment; we are therefore reporting on a unique complication in a chronic HD patient.
High Precision Determination of 48Ca/42Ca Ratio by TIMS for Ca Isotope Fractionation Studies
Authors: Gopalan Kunchithapadam , Macdougall J. Douglas , Macisaac Christopher
Published: March 2007

For studies of mass‐dependent fractionation of calcium isotopes in natural materials, the 48Ca/42Ca ratio is a superior choice to the conventionally measured 44Ca/40Ca ratio for two important reasons. These are (1) mass‐dependent fractionation can be determined free from the effects of inherited or ingrown radiogenic 40Ca and (2) this ratio increases the spread of measured isotopic masses by 50%, resulting in statistically better resolution of fractionation, assuming similar precision. A third, though strictly technical, advantage is the inherent ability of a mass spectrometer to measure ratios close to unity (48Ca/42Ca) more precisely than very small or large ratios (44Ca/40Ca). However, because of the very low natural abundance of both 48Ca and 42Ca, their ratio has been very difficult to measure, the only attempt so far being on a high mass resolution MC‐ICP‐MS with a precision of 0.33%. We report here determination of the 48Ca/42Ca ratio by the more commonly available and user‐friendly multi‐collector TIMS using a 43Ca‐46Ca double‐spike, with a significantly better precision of 0.18% (2s). The 48Ca/40Ca or 44Ca/40Ca ratio can also be measured in the same mass spectrometer run to provide complementary information on any radiogenic component.
A Combinatorial Optimization Problem for High Order PODs with Few Sensors
Authors: Mohanty Atanu K. , Chakraborty Kanad , Chatterjee Anindya
Published: March 2007

Experimental characterization of high dimensional dynamic systems sometimes uses the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD). If there are many measurement locations and relatively fewer sensors, then steady-state behavior can still be studied by sequentially taking several sets of simultaneous measurements. The number required of such sets of measurements can be minimized if we solve a combinatorial optimization problem. We aim to bring this problem to the attention of engineering audiences, summarize some known mathematical results about this problem, and present a heuristic (suboptimal) calculation that gives reasonable, if not stellar, results.
Porous Medium Interconnector Effects on the Thermohydraulics of Near-Compact Heat Exchangers Treated as Porous Media
Authors: Raju K. Sumithra , Narasimhan Arunn
Published: March 2007

A novel approach of treating near-compact heat exchangers (NCHX) (surface to volume ratio, α=100-300m2∕m3 with hydraulic diameter DM∼6mm) as a “global” porous media, whose thermohydraulic performance is being influenced by the presence of “local” tube-to-tube porous medium interconnectors, connecting the in-line arrangement of tubes (D=2mm) having square pitch of XT=XL=2.25, is investigated in this study using numerical methods. The thermohydraulics of the global porous media (NCHX) are characterized by studying the effect of transverse thickness (δ) and permeability (represented by Dai) of the local metal foam type porous medium interconnectors on the global heat transfer coefficient (Nu) and nondimensional pressure drop (ξ). The fluid transport in the porous medium interconnectors is governed by the Brinkman–Darcy flow model while the volume averaged energy equation is used to model energy transport, with the tube walls kept at constant temperature and exchanging heat with the cooling fluid having Pr=0.7 under laminar flow (10<Re<100). For the chosen NCHX configuration, ξ and Nu increases for an increase in Re and also with an increase in the thickness (δ) of the interconnecting porous medium. However, as the local Darcy number (Dai) of the interconnecting porous medium increases, the ξ decreases but the Nu increases. Treating the heat exchanger as a global porous media this result translates to an increase in the ξ and Nu as the global permeability (represented by Dag) decreases, where the decrease in Dag is because of either an increase in δ or a decrease in Dai. Separate correlations predicting ξ and Nu as a function of Re and Dag (which in turn is correlated to δ and Dai) have been developed for the chosen NCHX configuration, both of which predict the numerical data with ±20% accuracy.
Modelling feeding, growth, and habitat selection in larval Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua): observations and model predictions in a macrocosm environment
Authors: Kristiansen Trond , Fiksen Øyvind , Folkvord Arild
Published: March 2007

Individual-based models (IBMs) integrate behavioural, physiological, and developmental features and differences among individuals. Building on previous process-based models, we developed an IBM of larval Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) that included foraging, size-, temperature-, and food-limited growth, and environmental factors such as prey-field, turbulence, and light. Direct comparison between larval fish IBMs and experimental studies is lacking. Using data from a macrocosm study on growth and feeding of larval cod, we forced the model with observed temperature and prey-field and compared model predictions with observed distribution, diet, size-at-age, and specific growth rates. We explored implications of habitat selection rules on predicted growth rates. We analyze the sensitivity of model predictions by the Latin Hypercube Sampling method and individual parameter perturbation. Food limitation prevented larvae from growing at their physiological maximum, especially in the period 5–17 days post hatch (DPH). Active habitat selection had the potential to enhance larval growth rates. The model predicted temperature-limited growth rates for first-feeding larvae (5–20 DPH) when prey density is >5 nauplii·L–1. After age 20 DPH, maximum modelled growth required a diet of copepodites. Simulated growth rates were close to observed values except for the period just after the start of exogenous feeding when prey density was low.
Early summer frost hardiness in Picea abies seedlings in response to photoperiod treatment
Authors: Rostad Halvor , Granhus Aksel , Fløistad Inger Sundheim , Morgenlie Svein
Published: March 2007

According to previous studies, short-day (SD) treatment may increase frost hardiness in Picea abies (L.) Karst. seedlings during shoot elongation the next year. The purpose of this study was to examine how timing of the SD treatment affects spring frost hardiness. The following four treatments were applied in the first growth period: natural photoperiod (Nat), or SD treatment (8 h light : 16 h dark) either 14–28 July (SD1), 28 July – 11 August (SD2), or 11–20 August (SD3). After 125 days in cold storage (October–January), the seedlings were transferred to forcing conditions (20–25 °C, 24 h light) followed by freezing tests at –3, –5, –7, and –9 °C when most seedlings had reached bud break stage 7 (Krutzsch index). Seedling height measurements and analyses of carbohydrate status, nitrogen concentration, and dry mass of needles after cold storage were done to examine the treatments' impact on seedling quality. SD treatment reduced visual freezing injury to current- and first-year shoots. Mortality occurred at –7 and –9 °C and was significantly higher in the Nat and SD1 treatments (43% in both) than in the SD2 (23%) and SD3 (15%) treatments. Seedlings from the late SD treatments also showed better height growth and developed more shoots from dormant buds after freezing to –3 and –5 °C. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the importance of proper timing of the SD treatment in relation to the seedlings' natural growth rhythm.
Effects of forest characteristics on the abundance of alectorioid lichens in northern Finland
Authors: Jaakkola Lotta Maaria , Helle Timo Päiviö , Soppela Jussi , Kuitunen Markku Tapio , Yrjönen Mikko Juhani
Published: March 2007

Quantitative knowledge of the abundance of epiphytic alectorioid lichens (Bryoria spp., Alectoria spp., and Usnea spp.) is important when evaluating the carrying capacity of the winter pastures of semidomesticated reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus (L., 1758)) and woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou (Gmelin, 1788)). This study, including a total of 234 sample plots, presents data on the biomass of alectorioid lichens in mature forests for the most common forest site types in the national parks of Oulanka, Pallas-Ounastunturi, and Lemmenjoki in northern Finland and relates them to forest stand characteristics. The biomass of alectorioid lichens on trees was estimated using the clump method in which the existing clumps of lichen thalli on branches are compared with clumps of lichens of known dry mass. Estimated biomasses were corrected by equations describing the ratio of estimated to measured biomass. We found the highest mean lichen biomasses (120 kg·ha–1) in subdry, Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) dominated sites above the timberline of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.). Below that timberline, the highest lichen biomasses were found in fresh (productive) sites dominated by Norway spruce. There the site-specific differences were mainly associated with tree species composition. Though in many previous studies forest age has been an important indicator of total lichen biomass, in our study areas lichen abundance was most commonly correlated with total volume of forest stands. The correlation of biomass with forest volume suggests that substrate availability was the most important limiting factor for alectorioid lichens in our study area. However, it is premature to say whether that is a common feature in northern forests over larger geographic areas.
COHERENT SIGNALS PROCESSING BY ANALOG LOGICAL ELEMENTS
Authors: SPIRIDONOV VALERY
Published: March 2007

The result of action of the matched linear filters that are optimal for detection of given signals is maximization of the signal-to-noise ratio [Formula: see text], where PS max is the peak power of the signal, and [Formula: see text] is the average power of a noise. However, maximization of SNR, as a fraction, is obtained formally by the ratio [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the average power of the signal. PN min is the minimum, in a certain sense, the power of the noise. When n coherent pulses are processed, it is proposed to suppose that PN min is the minimum instantaneous power of available noise powers. In this case, the processing scheme represents the selector that constantly chooses the voltage with the minimum noise instantaneous power and transmits it to output. As shown in the paper, it is possible to perform this selection with acceptable accuracy and to improve SNR and, hence, probabilistic characteristics of detection in comparison with addition of coherent pulses. This improvement is obtained by using the adder input noises when their instantaneous powers are less than the instantaneous power of the adder output noise.
Role of gap junctions in regulation of progesterone secretion by ovine luteal cells in vitro
Authors: Borowczyk Ewa , Johnson Mary Lynn , Bilski Jerzy J , Bilska Magda A , Redmer Dale A , Reynolds Lawrence P , Grazul-Bilska Anna T
Published: March 2007

To evaluate the role of gap junctions in the regulation of progesterone secretion, two experiments were conducted. In Experiment 1, luteal cells obtained on days 5, 10, and 15 were cultured overnight at densities of 50×103, 100×103, 300×103, and 600×103 cells/dish in medium containing: (1) no treatment (control), (2) LH, or (3) dbcAMP. In Experiment 2, luteal cells from days 5 and 10 of the estrous cycle were transfected with siRNA, which targeted the connexin (Cx) 43 gene. In Experiment 1, progesterone secretion, Cx43 mRNA expression, and the rates of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC), were affected by the day of the estrous cycle, cell density, and treatments (LH or dbcAMP). The changes in progesterone secretion were positively correlated with the changes in Cx43 mRNA expression and the rates of GJIC. Cx43 was detected on the luteal cell borders in every culture, and luteal cells expressed 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. In Experiment 2, two Cx43 gene-targeted sequences decreased Cx43 mRNA expression and progesterone production by luteal cells. The changes in Cx43 mRNA expression were positively correlated with changes in progesterone concentration in media. Thus, our data demonstrate a relationship between gap junctions and progesterone secretion that was supported by (1) the positive correlations between progesterone secretion and Cx43 mRNA expression and GJIC of luteal cells and (2) the inhibition of Cx43 mRNA expression by siRNA that resulted in decreased production of progesterone by luteal cells. This suggests that gap junctions may be involved in the regulation of steroidogenesis in the ovine corpus luteum.
Noise‐margin analysis of a‐Si:H digital circuits
Authors: Li Zi , Venugopal Sameer , Shringarpure Rahul , Allee David R. , Clark Lawrence T.
Published: March 2007

Abstract— The noise margin is one of the fundamental metrics in evaluating the viability and robustness of digital circuits. An analytical model of amorphous‐silicon digital‐circuit noise margin was developed, including the effects of circuit aging. The threshold voltage of a‐Si:H transistors increases over time with electrical stress, degrading the performance and eventually leading to circuit wear‐out. Since static and dynamic inverters are the basic digital‐circuit design elements, they are the basis for this analysis. The analytical model is verified with experimental measurements. The lifetime of dynamic a‐Si:H digital circuits is found to exceed the lifetime for static a‐Si:H circuits by a factor of 2–3. Although the lifetimes are relatively short (∼105 sec) and under continuous electrical stress, they are sufficient for low‐duty‐cycle applications.
Multiplex Approach for Screening Genetic Markers of Microbial Indicators
Authors: Stedtfeld Robert D. , Baushke Sam , Tourlousse Dieter , Chai Benli , Cole James R. , Hashsham Syed A.
Published: March 2007

Genetic markers are expected to provide better specificity in epidemiological studies and potentially serve as better indicators of waterborne pathogens. Methods used to assess genetic markers of emerging microbial indicators include pulsed field gel electrophoresis, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and microarrays. This paper outlines a high‐throughput approach to screen for such genetic markers using a set of theoretical and experimental screening tools. The theoretical screening involves evaluating genes related to the ribosomal RNA and specific functions from emerging indicator groups, followed by experimental validation with appropriate sampling schemes and high‐throughput and economical screening methods, such as microarrays, real time PCR, and on‐chip PCR. Analysis of a wide range of samples covering temporal variability in location, host, and waterborne disease outbreaks is essential. The proposed approach is expected to shorten the time and cost associated with searching for new genetic markers of emerging indicators by at least 10‐fold.
Mixed signals: stimulus‐response compatibility and car indicator light configuration
Authors: Bayliss Andrew P.
Published: March 2007

The amber indicator lights on cars are designed to enable road users to efficiently predict the driver's next manoeuvre. Among other factors (e.g. luminance), the spatial configuration of these lights facilitates their interpretation (e.g. the right indicator flashes for right turns). However, several modern models of car confound this relationship by placing indicators medially relative to the headlights. Hence, the left indicator is placed to the right of the left headlight, for example. In two computer‐based experiments, the object‐based incompatibility that arises from this latter configuration resulted in slower, more erroneous responses to the indicated direction than for the standard configuration. These data act as a reminder to car designers that indicators, which are inherently a safety feature, should be designed with how fluently they can be processed by the human visual system in mind and not just for aesthetic appeal. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative thermal degradation studies on glycolide/trimethylene carbonate and lactide/trimethylene carbonate copolymers
Authors: Franco L. , Bedorin S. , Puiggalí J.
Published: March 2007

Thermal degradation of the glycolide/trimethylene carbonate copolymer used for bioabsorbable surgical sutures (Maxon™) has been studied by isothermal and nonisothermal methods. Thermal decomposition always follows a single mechanism, although some differences have been found between the two performed analyses. Degradation of the sample has also been compared in both an inert (N2) and an oxidative (air) atmosphere. In all cases, the activation energy is close to 115–119 kJ/mol. A lactide/trimethylene carbonate copolymer (PLAC/PTMC) with a similar molar content of trimethylene carbonyl units to that of the indicated suture has been synthesized and characterized. Differences in the monomer reactivities have allowed to obtain a copolymer with blocky distribution of lactidyl units. Thermal decomposition of PLAC/PTMC takes place in two steps, the first one corresponding to a preferential loss of lactidyl units. Nonisothermal isoconversional methods were used to obtain the kinetic parameters of each degradation step. The complete kinetic triplets of the two studied copolymers have been determined by the Coats–Redfern and the invariant kinetic parameters (IKP) methodologies and the results were compared. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 3539–3553, 2007
Li80Ba39N9: The First Li/Ba Subnitride.
Authors: Smetana Volodymyr , Babizhetskyy Volodymyr , Vajenine Grigori V. , Simon Arndt
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A Disordered Cerium(IV) Phosphate with a Tunnel Structure, K4CeZr(PO4)4.
Authors: Ogorodnyk Ivan V. , Zatovsky Igor V. , Baumer Vyacheslav N. , Slobodyanik Nikolay S. , Shishkin Oleg V.
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Ammonium Scandium Tetrafluoride.
Authors: Stephens Nicholas F. , Lightfoot Philip
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Spin Dimer Analysis of the Magnetic Structures of Ba3Cr2O8, Ba3Mn2O8, Na4FeO4, and Ba2CoO4 with a Three‐Dimensional Network of Isolated MO4 (M: Cr, Mn, Fe, Co) Tetrahedra.
Authors: Koo Hyun‐Joo , Lee Kwang‐Soon , Whangbo Myung‐Hwan
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis and Characterization of a New Ternary Imide — Li2Ca(NH)2.
Authors: Wu Guotao , Xiong Zhitao , Liu Tao , Liu Yongfeng , Hu Jianjiang , Chen Ping , Feng Yuanping , Wee Andrew T. S.
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Syntheses and Crystal Structures of the New Ternary Barium Halide Hydrides Ba2H3X (X: Cl or Br).
Authors: Reckeweg Olaf , Molstad Jay C. , Levy Scott , DiSalvo Francis J.
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Crystal Structure, Raman Spectroscopy, and ab initio Calculations of a New Bialkali Alanate K2LiAlH6.
Authors: Roennebro Ewa , Majzoub Eric H.
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Polyoxometalate (W/Mo) Compounds Connected via Lanthanide Cations with a Three‐Dimensional Framework, H2{[K(H2O)2]2 [Ln(H2O)5] 2(H2M12O42)} ×nH2O: Synthesis, Structures, and Magnetic Properties.
Authors: Zhang Xiutang , Wang Daqi , Dou Jianmin , Yan Shishen , Yao Xinxin , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Synthesis and Structure of Nickel‐Containing Cuboidal Clusters Derived from [W3Se4(H2O)9]4+. Site‐Differentiated Substitution at the Nickel Site in the Series [W3NiQ4(H2O)10]4+ (Q: S, Se).
Authors: Hernandez‐Molina Rita , Sokolov Maxim N. , Clausen Maria , Clegg William
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Amberlite IRA900N3 as a New Catalyst for the Azidation of α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones under Solvent‐Free Conditions.
Authors: Castrica Luca , Fringuelli Francesco , Gregoli Luisa , Pizzo Ferdinando , Vaccaro Luigi
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
A Facile and Clean Direct Cyanation of Heteroaromatic Compounds Using a Recyclable Hypervalent Iodine(III) Reagent.
Authors: Dohi Toshifumi , Morimoto Koji , Takenaga Naoko , Maruyama Akinobu , Kita Yasuyuki
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Cleavage of Alkoxycarbonyl Protecting Groups from Carbamates by t‐BuNH2.
Authors: Suarez‐Castillo Oscar R. , Montiel‐Ortega Luis Alberto , Melendez‐Rodriquez Myriam , Sanchez‐Zavala Maricruz
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Mild Deprotection of Primary N‐(p‐Toluenesulfonyl) Amides with SmI2 Following Trifluoroacetylation.
Authors: Moussa Ziad , Romo Daniel
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Highly Efficient and Selective Synthesis of Conjugated Triynes and Higher Oligoynes of Biological and Materials Chemical Interest via Palladium‐Catalyzed Alkynyl—Alkenyl Coupling.
Authors: Metay Estelle , Hu Qian , Negishi Ei‐ichi
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.
Asymmetric Modular Synthesis of Highly Functionalized Medium‐Sized Carbocycles and Lactones via Ring‐Closing Metathesis of Sulfoximine‐Substituted Trienes.
Authors: Lejkowski Michal , Gais Hans‐Joachim , Banerjee Prabal , Vermeeren Cornelia
Published: March 2007

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract, please click on HTML or PDF.