bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recombinant prion protein induces rapid polarization and development of synapses in embryonic rat hippocampal neurons in vitro
Authors: Kanaani Jamil , Prusiner Stanley B. , Diacovo Julia , Baekkeskov Steinunn , Legname Giuseppe
Published: September 2005

While a β‐sheet‐rich form of the prion protein (PrPSc) causes neurodegeneration, the biological activity of its precursor, the cellular prion protein (PrPC), has been elusive. We have studied the effect of purified recombinant prion protein (recPrP) on rat fetal hippocampal neurons in culture. Overnight exposure to Syrian hamster or mouse recPrP, folded into an α‐helical‐rich conformation similar to that of PrPC, resulted in a 1.9‐fold increase in neurons with a differentiated axon, a 13.5‐fold increase in neurons with differentiated dendrites, a fivefold increase in axon length, and the formation of extensive neuronal circuitry. Formation of synaptic‐like contacts was increased by a factor of 4.6 after exposure to recPrP for 7 days. Neither the N‐terminal nor C‐terminal domains of recPrP nor the PrP paralogue doppel (Dpl) enhanced the polarization of neurons. Inhibitors of protein kinase C (PKC) and of Src kinases, including p59Fyn, blocked the effect of recPrP on axon elongation, while inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase showed a partial inhibition, suggesting that signaling cascades involving these kinases are candidates for transduction of recPrP‐mediated signals. The results predict that full‐length PrPC functions as a growth factor involved in development of neuronal polarity.
Development of microsatellite markers for the crown‐of‐thorns starfish Acanthaster planci
Authors: YASUDA N. , NAGAI S. , HAMAGUCHI M. , LIAN C. L. , NADAOKA K.
Published: September 2005

We isolated nine polymorphic microsatellites from the crown‐of‐thorns starfish, Acanthaster planci. These loci provide one class of highly variable genetic marker as the number of alleles ranged from three to 12 and the observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.130 to 0.783 and from 0.163 to 0.862, respectively. We consider that these loci are potentially useful for detailing the genetic structure and gene flow among A. planci populations.
Negotiating the Contested Terrain of Drug Testing in the Australian workplace
Authors: Holland Peter , Pyman Amanda , Teicher Julian
Published: September 2005

Alcohol and illicit substance abuse in the workplace is an important human resource and industrial relations issue. Although more sophisticated measures have been developed to test and monitor drug use in the workplace, and despite tacit union support on occupational health and safety grounds, the implementation of drug testing procedures remains contentious. This paper examines the arguments for and against drug testing in the workplace using an Australian case study where drug testing resulted in industrial disputation that led to legal intervention and remedy.
Electrolux in Australia: Deregulation, Industry Restructuring and the Dynamics of Bargaining
Authors: Lambert Rob , Gillan Michael , Fitzgerald Scott
Published: September 2005

This paper provides a critical assessment of state deregulation policy, industrial restructuring and the erosion of union-based bargaining by analysing the role of the Swedish whitegoods transnational corporation, Electrolux, which bought out the last remaining Australian whitegoods manufacturer in November 2000. We contend that analysis of the global strategy of a transnational corporation provides insight into the dynamics of competition and changing power relations in a deregulated environment. Our research shows how deregulation intensifies global competition in a way that accelerates mergers and acquisitions, which create a high degree of concentration, further rationalisations and workplace restructuring. The latter has been facilitated by the 1996 Workplace Relations Act (WRA), which disorganises trade unionism and undermines solidarity cultures. This we illustrate through a short analysis of the restructuring Electrolux has implemented at a refrigeration plant in Orange, New South Wales. The corporation's mode of bargaining a new enterprise agreement is explored. The power imbalances this process re.ects will only be redressed when there is ‘a new social organisation of labour’.
Retrenchment and Labour Market Disadvantage: Role of Age, Job Tenure and Casual Employment
Authors: Peetz David
Published: September 2005

Industrial tribunals have been considering redundancy benefits for older workers, workers with long job tenure and casual workers (the latter group presently having no access to redundancy benefits regardless of tenure). This paper details labour market disadvantage faced by these categories of retrenched workers.
PHYLOGENY OFSPIROGYRAANDSIROGONIUM(ZYGNEMATOPHYCEAE) BASED ONRBCL SEQUENCE DATA1
Authors: Drummond Christopher S. , Hall John , Karol Kenneth G. , Delwiche Charles F. , McCourt Richard M.
Published: September 2005

DNA sequence data were obtained for the gene encoding the large subunit of RUBISCO (rbcL) from 26 strains ofSpirogyraand seven ofSirogonium, using as outgroups 10 genera in the Zygnematales and Desmidiales (Closterium,Cosmarium,Cylindrocystis,Gonatozygon,Mesotaenium,Netrium,Penium,Zygnema,Zygnemopsis,Zygogonium). Sequence data were analyzed using maximum parsimony (MP), maximum likelihood (ML), and Bayesian inference (BI), with bootstrap replication (MP, ML) and posterior probabilities (BI) as measures of support. MP, ML, and BI analyses of therbcL data strongly support a single clade containingSpirogyraandSirogonium. TheSpirogyrataxa are monophyletic, with the exception ofSpirogyra maxima(Hassall) Wittrock, which is nested within a clade withSirogoniumand shares with them the characters of loosely spiraled chloroplasts (<1 complete turn per cell) and anisogamy of gametangial cells;S. maximadiffers fromSirogoniumin displaying well‐defined conjugation tubes rather than a tubeless connection involving bending (genuflection) of filaments. The ML and BI analyses place thisSirogonium/Spirogyra maximaclade sister to the remainingSpirogyra. Morphological differences among strains ofSpirogyragrouped together on the basis ofrbcL data, including laboratory strains derived from clonal cultures (Spirogyra communis,S. pratensis), indicate that some characters (filament width, chloroplast number) used in the traditional taxonomy of this group are poor measures of species identity. However, some characters such as replicate end walls and loose spiraling of chloroplasts may be synapomorphies forSpirogyraclades.
Characterization of immunoglobulin G fragments in liquid intravenous immunoglobulin products
Authors: Diemel Robert V. , Ter Hart Hendricus G.J. , Derksen Gerardus J.A. , Koenderman Anky H.L. , Aalberse Rob C.
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) products formulated as a liquid instead of a powder have become commercially available. Preferably, such liquid products should not alter after storage outside the refrigerator. Therefore, a thorough characterization of immunoglobulin G (IgG) fragmentation at various storage temperatures is required.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Storage experiments with liquid IVIG products from five manufacturers were performed at 4, 25, and 37°C and IgG fragments were analyzed.

RESULTS: Storage of liquid IVIG products at 4°C resulted in negligible alterations, whereas an increase of IgG fragments was observed after prolonged storage at elevated temperatures. Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blot analysis of five liquid IVIG products revealed three IgG fragments (12, 26, and 54 kDa) in all products. Fragments of similar molecular mass were produced upon incubations of IgG with blood‐derived proteases. N‐terminal amino acid sequencing revealed the cleavage site of these fragments, suggesting human neutrophil elastase to cause the 12‐kDa fragment. The presence of elastase in liquid IVIG was confirmed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The origin of the 26‐ and 54‐kDa fragments, both with an aspartic acid residue at the cleavage site, could not be determined unambiguously.

CONCLUSION: IgG fragmentation in liquid IVIG is negligible when stored in the refrigerator. Only after prolonged storage at elevated temperature does proteolytic degradation of IgG become apparent.
Amotosalen interactions with platelet and plasma components: absence of neoantigen formation after photochemical treatment
Authors: Lin Lily , Conlan Maureen G. , Tessman John , Cimino George , Porter Seth
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND: The INTERCEPT Blood System (Baxter Healthcare Corp., and Cerus Corp.) is a photochemical treatment (PCT) process that uses amotosalen (S‐59) and ultraviolet A (UVA) illumination to inactivate a broad spectrum of pathogens.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To evaluate the potential of the process to create neoantigens, the amounts of residual amotosalen and photoproducts present in PCT platelets (PLTs) and PCT plasma were quantified. The initial amount of amotosalen was 150 µmol per L. After illumination with 3 J per cm2 UVA and before transfusion, a compound adsorption device was used to substantially reduce the amounts of free amotosalen and unreactive photodegradation products. Patient serum samples from Phase III clinical trials were assayed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for antibodies to potential amotosalen neoantigens.

RESULTS: After PCT, 15 percent of the starting amount of amotosalen remains bound to PLTs, and 15 to 22 percent remains bound to plasma components. The majority of bound amotosalen is associated with lipid. Less than 1 percent of PLT‐bound amotosalen and approximately 2 percent of plasma‐bound amotosalen can be extracted into the water‐soluble protein fraction. In seven Phase III clinical trials, 523 patients received more than 8000 units of PCT PLTs or PCT plasma. None of the patients exhibited clinical or laboratory manifestations of neoantigenicity. Furthermore, no other alteration of PLT membrane proteins was identified based on testing for lymphocytotoxic antibodies and PLT‐specific alloantibodies.

CONCLUSION: These results indicate that no neoantigens were detected by ELISA after PCT, suggesting that transfusion of PCT PLTs or PCT plasma does not induce adverse immunologic responses.
Missense mutations outside the catalytic domain of the ABO glycosyltransferase can cause weak blood group A and B phenotypes
Authors: Seltsam Axel , Blasczyk Rainer
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND: Only little is known about the impact of amino acid substitutions outside an enzyme's active site on A and B transferase activity.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A panel of blood group A‐ and B‐specific plasmids containing the six known missense mutations of the coding sequence upstream of exon 6 of the ABO gene were constructed. HeLa cells were used to transfect ABO expression plasmids.

RESULTS: Expression of ABO variants containing single or multiple missense mutations in HeLa cells resulted in a significant decrease in the percentage of antigen‐expressing cells (up to 29%) and in mean fluorescence intensity (MFI; up to 50%) compared to transfection with ABO*A101 or ABO*B101. Coexpression of the respective antithetical wild‐type construct (ABO*A101 and ABO*B101, respectively) further reduced cell surface expression of variant ABO constructs in regard to the percentage of expressing cells (up to 53% decrease) and MFI (up to 59% decrease).

CONCLUSION: Weak A and B subgroups can arise from transferases with amino acid changes in the N‐terminal domain, particularly in AB phenotypes, where normal A1 or B1 glycosyltransferases compete for the same substrates.
Decreased sepsis related to indwelling venous access devices coincident with implementation of universal leukoreduction of blood transfusions
Authors: Blumberg Neil , Fine Lynn , Gettings Kelly F. , Heal Joanna M.
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND: Randomized trials and animal models demonstrate that leukoreduction of transfusions can reduce the risk of post‐operative infections. We performed a retrospective study of sepsis related to indwelling venous access devices (line related infections) before and after the July 2000 implementation of universal leukoreduction.

METHODS: Line related infection data were collected from hospital infection control records for an 18‐month period before and after July 2000. Transfusion histories were obtained from transfusion service records.

RESULTS: Line related infections decreased in number from 150 to 98 (−35%) in transfused patients after implementation of universal leukoreduction, whereas line related infections increased from 41 to 45 (+10%) in nontransfused patients (p = 0.04). This corresponded to a decrease from 5.3 to 3.3 infections/10,000 patient days in transfused patients (p = 0.002). The infection rate remained stable in nontransfused patients at 1.5 infections/10,000 patient days both pre‐ and postimplementation of universal leukoreduction. Quantitatively similar decreases (33–45%) were seen in transfused surgical, medical and pediatric patients.

CONCLUSIONs: A substantial and statistically significant decrease in line related infections occurred coincident with implementation of universal leukore‐duction. These improved outcomes were observed in transfused but not nontransfused patients, across all clinical services, suggesting a causal relationship with universal leukoreduction.
Blood irradiator dosimetry with BANG polymer gels
Authors: Fearon Thomas , Criss Valli R. , Luban Naomi L.C.
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND:  Transfusion‐associated graft‐versus‐host disease is believed to be a preventable complication of blood transfusion in susceptible high‐risk patients. Irradiation of allogeneic blood components is considered to be a safe and effective method inhibiting the proliferative capacity of lymphocytes. Physical factors that influence dose delivery include source and sample geometry, homogeneity of the dose distribution within the irradiation volume, and factors that influence dose absorption within the sample.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  Polymer gel dosimetry was used to evaluate the three‐dimensional dose distribution for blood bags, platelet (PLT) bags, and syringes in typical geometries.

RESULTS:  The qualitative dose distribution within a cylindrical phantom determined with the polymer gel was in good agreement with the distribution in water determined with a DOSE‐MAP film dosimetry system. Dose uniformity in blood bags and syringes was acceptable. Low signal strength and volume averaging hamper determination of the dose in PLT bags.

CONCLUSION:  Geometrical considerations in routine blood product irradiation may be evaluated with the use of polymer gel dosimetry. The procedures, however, are highly technical and are susceptible to low signal‐to‐noise and volume averaging considerations under certain geometrical configurations. Under clinical conditions, a reasonably uniform dose can be delivered to blood and blood components in a freestanding irradiator.
A noninvasive strategy for screening prospective blood donors for anemia
Authors: Lotfi Ramin , Wernet Dorothee , Starke Uwe , Northoff Hinnak , Cassens Uwe
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND:  The reliability of capillary hemoglobin (Hb) as an indicator for eligibility to donate blood is discussed controversially. Therefore, a noninvasive alternative with acceptable predictive values was established and evaluated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  Donor candidates were selected according to their Hb level. The first donation was performed 6 weeks after this selection step. A venous blood sample was collected from all donors at the end of their donation and a postdonation Hb determination was performed. Donors with acceptable postdonation Hb values were permitted to donate next time without any predonation Hb measurement. Donors with low postdonation Hb values were permitted to donate only after a venous Hb measurement had shown an acceptable value. Sensitivity and specificity were determined by comparing the gold standard (i.e., venous Hb measurement) with the presented method of Hb estimation for 19,534 donors.

RESULTS:  Taking the postdonation Hb as an indicator for eligibility saved 97 percent of donors from being tested unnecessarily by capillary Hb measurement. This procedure resulted in a specificity of 92.6 percent and a sensitivity of 37.9 percent for Hb cutoff levels of 135 and 125 g per L for men and women, respectively. The sensitivity increased rapidly to 100 percent for Hb levels below 105 g per L. The average deviation from true Hb level was 6 g per L.

CONCLUSION:  The presented noninvasive method distinctly saves time and expenditure without endangering blood donors.
Residual risk of transfusion‐transmitted human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, and hepatitis B virus infections in Italy
Authors: Gonzalez Margarita , Règine Vincenza , Piccinini Vanessa , Vulcano Francesca , Giampaolo Adele , Hassan Hamisa Jane
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND: Estimating the risk of transfusion‐transmitted infections (TTIs) is essential for monitoring blood safety. The residual risk of TTI was estimated for nearly 90 percent of the blood supply in Italy.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Data were analyzed from 1,079,281 repeat donors, corresponding to 5,361,000 donations made in blood transfusion centers throughout Italy in the period 1999 through 2001. The residual risk of transfusion‐transmitted human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections was estimated with the incidence rate–window period model. The denominator for the incidence rate (i.e., the number of person‐years at risk) was estimated on a sample of 5850 donors.

RESULTS: The risk of an infectious donation entering the blood supply, per 1 million donations, was 1.91 (probable range, 0.52‐3.32) for HIV, 16.74 (9.57‐24.01) for HCV, and 69.16 (43.12‐102.70) for total HBV (adjusted for vaccination and hepatitis B surface antigen transience).

CONCLUSION: In Italy, the estimated residual risk of TTI is apparently low, particularly for HIV infection. Although the estimated risks are higher for HCV and HBV, the introduction of mandatory viral detection tests for HCV in 2002 should account for an 80 percent reduction in the HCV risk. Moreover, the ongoing HBV vaccination program will contribute to reducing the risk of transfusion‐transmitted HBV.
Prevalence of selected viral infections among temporarily deferred donors who returned to donate blood: American Red Cross blood donor study
Authors: Zou Shimian , Musavi Fatemeh , Notari Edward P. , Fujii Karen E. , Dodd Roger Y. ,   ARCNET Study Group
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND:  Health history questions are introduced into the predonation interview to identify blood donors believed to pose a higher risk of infectious diseases to recipients. This study assesses the current impact of some of those questions.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  Donor deferral and donation data were extracted from a research database of the American Red Cross. The prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen or antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C virus, or human T‐lymphotropic virus was obtained for different groups of donors who were temporarily deferred in 2000 through 2001 and later returned to donate blood in 2000 through 2003. The results were compared with either first‐time or repeat donors in 2000 through 2003, while controlling for differences in sex, age, and year of donation.

RESULTS:  Of donors temporarily deferred in 2000 through 2001 who had had no donation or deferral during the previous 2 years, only 22.08 percent subsequently returned to donate blood in 2000 through 2003. Donations from returning donors who had been deferred for potential infectious disease risk did not show a higher prevalence for any of the viral markers when those with no donation or deferral during the previous two years were compared with first‐time donations, and those with prior donation were compared with repeat donations.

CONCLUSION:  Blood donors temporarily deferred in 2000 through 2001 for potential risk of viral infection who later returned to donate blood did not appear to pose a higher risk compared to first‐time or repeat donors. The effectiveness of some of the currently used deferral questions in reducing viral risks warrants further study.
Safety and impact of donor‐type red blood cell transfusion before allogeneic peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation with major ABO mismatch
Authors: Scholl Sebastian , Klink Anne , Mügge Lars‐Olof , Schilling Kristina , Höffken Klaus , Sayer Herbert G.
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND:  Changes within the ABO system are regularly observed phenomena in allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT) and peripheral blood progenitor cell transplantation (PBPCT). Major ABO mismatch can lead to different clinical problems including acute hemolysis after infusion of the allograft, delay of red blood cell (RBC) engraftment, or even manifestation of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  This retrospective study demonstrates the safety and the impact of donor‐type RBC transfusion before allogeneic PBPCT in major ABO settings as routinely performed at our transplantation unit. This study reports on transfusion of mismatched RBCs at the end of the conditioning period in 35 patients who underwent allogeneic PBPCT, which led to a decrease in isoagglutinin titers in most cases.

RESULTS:  A decrease of isoagglutinin titer after donor‐type RBC transfusion can significantly reduce the demand of RBC transfusion between transplantation and Day +30 (p = 0.003). Interestingly, patients who developed PRCA were not observed, a complication being regularly documented by other groups.

CONCLUSION:  A decrease of isoagglutinin titers by in vivo immunoadsorption before allogeneic PBPCT does not only lack severe complication but also leads to a reduction in demand of RBC transfusion after engraftment and may reduce the incidence of PRCA in these patients.
Novel weak D types 31 and 32: adsorption‐elution–supported D antigen analysis and comparison to prevalent weak D types
Authors: Körmöczi Günther F. , Förstemann Elisabeth , Gabriel Christian , Mayr Wolfgang R. , Schönitzer Diether , Gassner Christoph
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND:Weak D types are thought to express rather quantitative than qualitative D antigen variants. Distinct type‐specific phenotypes and weak D cases with anti‐D alloimmunization, however, suggest a variable degree of D antigen alteration.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:Variant D types were investigated by use of molecular typing,RHDsequencing, extended serologic D antigen investigations, and flow cytometric D antigen density determination.

RESULTS:Two novel weak D types were discovered, termed weak D type 31 and 32 with singleRHDnucleotide substitutions coding for amino acid exchanges in predicted intracellular RhD polypeptide stretches, with antigen densities of approximately 130 and 50 D sites per red blood cell, respectively. Adsorption‐elution technique–supported D epitope mapping of these two weak D types, the recently described weak D type 26, and of the most common Central European weak D types (weak D types 1, 2, 3, 4.0, and 4.1) demonstrated the expression of all tested D epitopes. In contrast, a distinct D epitope loss was detected in weak D type 15 and partial D control samples.

CONCLUSION:All novel and prevalent weak D types expressed all tested D epitopes. Our results indicate that adsorption‐elution techniques may be of advantage whenever D epitope loss is suspected in extremely weak D variants.
Use of intravenous immunoglobulin for treatment of neurologic conditions: a systematic review
Authors: Fergusson Dean , Hutton Brian , Sharma Michael , Tinmouth Alan , Wilson Kumanan , Cameron D. William , Hebert Paul C.
Published: September 2005

BACKGROUND:  Given the increasing use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) for various neurologic conditions and uncertainty pertaining to its benefits and harms, a systematic review was conducted of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating IVIG for all neurologic indications for which there was at least one published trial.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  For this systematic review, a systematic search strategy was applied to MEDLINE (1966‐June 2003) and the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials (June 2003) to identify potentially eligible RCTs comparing IVIG to placebo or an active control. All dosage regimens were considered. Abstracts were excluded, and no restriction was placed on language of publication. Two investigators independently performed data extraction with a standardized form. Measures of effect were calculated for each trial independently, and studies were pooled based on clinical and methodologic judgment as to its appropriateness. Where pooling of trials was inappropriate, a qualitative discussion of findings is provided.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS:  Thirty‐seven trials representing 14 conditions were identified. IVIG is more effective than placebo for treatment of relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis and idiopathic chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. There is also potential benefit for treatment of multifocal motor neuropathy, myasthenia gravis, dermatomyositis, stiff‐person syndrome, and Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome. There was insufficient evidence to determine whether IVIG therapy was more effective than plasma exchange for Guillain‐Barré syndrome. There was also insufficient evidence regarding paraprotein‐associated polyneuropathy. No evidence of benefit was observed for secondary progressive multiple sclerosis or inclusion body myositis.
Chemical Solution Deposition of (Pb1−xCax)TiO3 Thin Films with x∼0.5 as New Dielectrics for Tunable Components and Dynamic Random Access Memories
Authors: Calzada M. L. , Bretos I. , Jiménez R. , Ricote J. , Mendiola J. , García‐López J. , Respaldiza M. A.
Published: September 2005

Calcium lead titanate ((Pb,Ca)TiO3) thin films, with calcium contents of ∼50 at.%, have been prepared by chemical solution deposition (CSD). Different synthetic sol–gel methods have been used for the preparation of the precursor solutions. 1,3‐propanediol, OH(CH2)3OH, and water, H2O, were used as solvents. Lead (II) acetate trihydrate, Pb(OCOCH3)2·3H2O, and titanium di‐isopropoxide bis(acetylacetonate), Ti(OC3H7)2(CH3COCHCOCH3)2, were used as reagents of lead and titanium, respectively. Calcium was incorporated into the solutions as calcium acetate hydrate, Ca(OCOCH3)2·xH2O, or as calcium acetylacetonate hydrate, Ca(CH3COCHCOCH3)2·xH2O. Only the use of calcium acetate led to precipitate‐free solutions. Pb(II)–Ti(IV)–Ca(II) sols were obtained when calcium acetate was refluxed with the lead and titanium reagents in a diol–water solvent. These sols led to films with a homogeneous compositional profile. Solutions obtained by mixing a water solution of calcium acetate with a Pb(II)–Ti(IV) sol led to films with a heterogeneous compositional profile in which an interface between the film and the Pt bottom electrode is formed. The films derived from the Pb(II)–Ti(IV)–Ca(II) sols have values of dielectric constant at room temperature of ∼500, which, together with their low leakage currents, low dielectric losses, and tunability, make these films promising for dynamic random access memories and tunable devices.
Chemical Corrosion of E‐Glass Fibers in Oxalic and Other Organic Acids
Authors: Jones Robert L.
Published: September 2005

Corrosion of E‐glass fibers in aqueous organic acids has been investigated. Oxalic acid is particularly severe and causes almost total strength loss after exposure for only a few days. Of particular importance is that oxalic acid is a degradation product of the plastic matrix of glass reinforced plastic materials. Other organic acids, such as glyoxylic and malonic acids, also corrode the glass fibers, and these too are likely degradation products of plastic. The proposed mechanism of corrosion is an ion exchange reaction in which metal ions on the glass surface are replaced by hydrogen ions from the acid. This is enhanced by complex formation of the leached cation with the anion associated with the acid. Some cations are leached more extensively in some acids compared with others, and boron has been implicated in the corrosion by organic acids.
Rare‐Earth Zirconate Ceramics with Fluorite Structure for Thermal Barrier Coatings
Authors: Xu Qiang , Pan Wei , Wang Jingdong , Wan Chunlei , Qi Longhao , Miao Hezhuo , Mori Kazutaka , Torigoe Taiji
Published: September 2005

A series of rare‐earth zirconate Ln2Zr2O7 ceramics (Ln=Dy, Er, and Yb) with a fluorite structure (F‐Ln2Zr2O7) were prepared by pressureless sintering from zirconia and rare‐earth oxide powders at 1600°C for 10 h in air. The microstructure experiments were performed by X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The thermal conductivity and thermal expansion of these ceramics were evaluated using a steady‐state laser heat‐flux technique and high‐temperature dilatometry, respectively. The XRD and SEM results demonstrate that Ln2Zr2O7 ceramics with a single fluorite phase are synthesized and no other phases are found. The results of thermal conductivity show that their thermal conductivities (1.3–1.9 W/(m·K), 20°–800°C) are as low as those of the referenced Ln2Zr2O7 ceramics (Ln=La, Nd, Sm, and Gd) with pyrochlore structure (P‐Ln2Zr2O7). It is concluded that rare‐earth zirconate ceramics with a fluorite structure can be considered as candidate materials for future thermal barrier coatings.
Solubility Limit of MgO in Al2O3 at 1600°C
Authors: Miller Lior , Avishai Amir , Kaplan Wayne D.
Published: September 2005

The solubility of Mg in alumina was measured using wavelength‐dispersive spectroscopy mounted on a scanning electron microscope. Careful calibration of the microscope's working conditions was performed in order to optimize the detection limit and accuracy. Measurements were conducted on water‐quenched and furnace‐cooled samples, without any thermal or chemical etching to avoid alteration of the bulk concentration. The results indicate the solubility limit of Mg in alumina to be 132±11 ppm at 1600°C.
Influence of Cation Order on the Electric Field‐Induced Phase Transition in Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3‐Based Relaxor Ferroelectrics
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Qu Weiguo , He Hui , Vittayakorn Naratip , Tan Xiaoli
Published: September 2005

The effect of cation ordering on an electric field‐induced relaxor to normal ferroelectric phase transition in Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 (PMN)‐based ceramics was investigated. Both A‐site La doping and B‐site Sc doping were found to enhance the chemical ordering in these relaxor ceramics. However, the enhanced chemical orderings showed different impacts on the dielectric and ferroelectric properties in these perovskite materials. The 5% La doping was observed to shift the dielectric maximum temperature (Tmax) to a significantly lower temperature and suppress the electric field‐induced transition to a ferroelectric phase. In contrast, the 5% and 10% Sc doping showed little effect on Tmax but strengthened the ferroelectric coupling. The difference is discussed on the basis of cation size and charge imbalance. An electric field‐temperature phase diagram is also proposed for the 0.90PMN–0.10Pb(Sc1/2Nb1/2)O3 based on its history dependence of the electric field‐induced phase transition.
The Effect of Fictive Temperature on the Structural Environment of Fluorine in Silicate and Aluminosilicate Glasses
Authors: Kiczenski T. J. , Stebbins Jonathan F.
Published: September 2005

We have examined temperature‐induced changes in the local structure of fluorine in silicate and aluminosilicate glasses through the application of 19F magic‐angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance to glasses synthesized with a wide range of fictive temperatures. We have observed an increase in Si–F bonding in binary silicates with increasing temperature, as well as a change in the degree of ordering in mixed modifier silicates. We have also observed an increase in F–Al bonding in aluminosilicates, although the degree of this change appears to be composition dependent. These results could help explain the significant changes in properties of melts on the addition of fluorine.
Sintering Behavior of 0.8 mol%‐CuO‐Doped 3Y‐TZP Ceramics
Authors: Ran Shen , Winnubst Louis , Wiratha Wika , Blank Dave H. A.
Published: September 2005

In recent years, 3 mol% yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals (3Y‐TZP) doped with copper oxide has obtained increasing interest due to its enhanced superplastisity and good potential in tribological applications. In this work, the effect of addition of small amounts (0.8 mol%) of copper oxide on the sintering behavior of 3Y‐TZP was studied using a dilatometer and high‐temperature X‐ray diffraction (XRD). A qualitative sintering model was established based on several reactions during sintering as indicated by thermal analysis and XRD. Some of these reactions remarkably retard densification and consequently result in low final density (86%) of the sample sintered at 1400°C in air. The reaction between molten Cu2O and yttria as segregated to the Y‐TZP grain boundaries at around 1180°C leads to the depletion of yttria from Y‐TZP grains, which results in the formation of monoclinic phase during cooling. A relatively higher oxygen partial pressure can inhibit the dissociation of CuO to Cu2O. This inhibition in dissociation is one of the reasons why a dense (>96%) 0.8 mol% CuO‐doped 3Y‐TZP ceramic can be obtained after sintering at 1400°C in flowing oxygen.
Effect of Orientation on the Ferroelectric Behavior of (Pb,Sr)TiO3 Thin Films
Authors: Zhai Jiwei , Yao Xi , Xu Zhengkui , Chen Haydn
Published: September 2005

Pb0.6Sr0.4TiO3 (PST) ferroelectric thin films were prepared on two different substrates by sol–gel methods. Films derived on the LaNiO(LNO)/Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates showed a strong (100) preferred orientation. The PST thin films grown on the LNO/Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si(100) substrate showed a non‐uniform rounded grain size distribution and have a larger polarization and lower coercive field Ec. The dependence of electrical properties derived on the Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si and LNO/Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates has been studied, with a focus on the change of dielectric constant versus direct current (DC) bias field. The dielectric and ferroelectric properties of the Pb0.6Sr0.4TiO3 thin films deposition on two kinds of substrates were investigated as a function of temperature, frequency and DC bias field.
High‐Voltage Screening on Thermally Shocked Titania Ceramics
Authors: Kishimoto Akira , Ogata Chiharu , Obata Mako , Hayashi Hidetaka
Published: September 2005

We evaluated the effect of high‐voltage screening on thermally shocked titania ceramics. When the strength distribution was broadened by a thermal shock close to the critical temperature difference, high‐voltage screening removed the relatively weak samples, and when thermally shocked samples were mixed into pristine samples, all the thermally shocked samples were eliminated when adequate screening field was applied.
Novel Faceted α‐SiAlON Micro‐Crystals Prepared by Combustion Synthesis
Authors: Liu Guanghua , Chen Kexin , Zhou Heping , Pereira C. , Ferreira J.
Published: September 2005

Novel faceted α‐SiAlON micro‐crystals were prepared by combustion synthesis with proper additives. These crystals exhibited various end shapes, including smooth flat hexagonal faces, pyramids bounded by six small isosceles triangles, and partial pyramids with the sharp roofs removed. The formation mechanisms of different crystal shapes were discussed, and a terraced epitaxial nucleation mode for α‐SiAlON was proposed. By this nucleation mode, two interesting crystal morphologies were formed: a terraced tower structure and a T‐like shape. Transmission electron microscopy results showed that the fast growth direction of rod‐like α‐SiAlON crystals was parallel to the c‐axis.
Preparation and Properties of Nanocrystalline α‐Fe2O3‐Sensitized TiO2 Nanosheets as a Visible Light Photocatalyst
Authors: Liu Hongyan , Gao Lian
Published: September 2005

We present a novel approach for the fabrication of α‐Fe2O3‐sensitized TiO2 nanosheets. The TiO2 nanosheets with partly curly surfaces and large surface areas can rapidly absorb the methylene blue (MB). The absorption and degradation of MB are investigated. Results show that the photocatalytic activities of α‐Fe2O3 make the MB degradation efficient under visible light irradiation. By coupling two semiconductor systems, electrons can be injected from an excited small band gap semiconductor into TiO2 under visible light. Such a modification is expected to lead to new or enhanced properties.
Host immune responses in ex vivo approaches to cutaneous gene therapy targeted to keratinocytes
Authors: Lu Z. , Ghazizadeh S.
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Epidermal gene therapy may benefit a variety of inherited skin disorders and certain systemic diseases. Both in vivo and ex vivo approaches of gene transfer have been used to target human epidermal stem cells and achieve long‐term transgene expression in immunodeficient mouse/human chimera models. Immunological responses however, especially in situations where a neoantigen is expressed, are likely to curtail expression and thereby limit the therapy. In vivo gene transfer to skin has been shown to induce transgene‐specific immune responses. Ex vivo gene transfer approaches, where keratinocytes are transduced in culture and transplanted back to patient, however, may avoid signals provided to the immune system by in vivo administration of vectors. In the current study, we have developed a stable epidermal graft platform in immunocompetent mice to analyze host responses in ex vivo epidermal gene therapy. Using green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a neoantigen and an ex vivo retrovirus‐mediated gene transfer to mouse primary epidermal cultures depleted of antigen‐presenting cells (APCs), we show induction of GFP‐specific immune responses leading to the clearance of transduced cells. Similar approach in immunocompetent mice tolerant to GFP resulted in permanent engraftment of transduced cells and continued GFP expression. Activation of transgene‐specific immune responses in ex vivo gene transfer targeted to keratinocytes require cross‐presentation of transgene product to APCs, a process that is most amenable to immune modulation. This model may be used to explore strategies to divert transgene‐specific immune responses to less destructive or tolerogenic ones.
Betulinic acid induces apoptosis in skin cancer cells and differentiation in normal human keratinocytes
Authors: Galgon Tino , Wohlrab Wolfgang , Dräger Birgit
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  Betulinic acid (BA), a pentacyclic triterpene of plant origin, induces cell death in melanoma cells and other malignant cells of neuroectodermal origin. Little is known about additional biological effects in normal target cells. We show, in this study, that BA induces differentiation as well as cell death in normal human keratinocytes (NHK). Cytotoxicity profiles of BA are compared among normal human keratinocytes, HaCaT cells, IGR1 melanoma cells and normal melanocytes. As expected, BA is toxic to all cell types, normal and malignant, but varies in its cytotoxic potency and in the extent of induction of apoptotic vs. necrotic cell death in the four different skin cell types. Apoptosis is proved by annexin V and Apo2.7 binding and by DNA fragmentation. Induction of differentiation‐associated antigens in keratinocytes – filaggrin and involucrin – is demonstrated, together with specific morphological changes in treated cell cultures. BA, apart from its cytotoxic activities in cellular systems, is capable of inducing differentiation of NHK into corneocytes without immediately provoking apoptotic cell death.
Relationships between lung function, smoking and morphology of dermal elastic fibres
Authors: Just Miquel , Monsó Eduard , Ribera Miquel , Carles Lorenzo Joan , Morera Josep , Ferrandiz Carles
Published: September 2005

Objective:  To investigate the relationship between lung function and dermal elastic fibres in non‐smokers and smokers with and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Method:  A cross‐sectional study was performed with lung function as the outcome [forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1)%, FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC)% and residual volume (RV)/total lung capacity (TLC)%] and smoking (pack‐years) and morphology of dermal elastic fibres (fibres/mm2 and percentage histologic field filled with them) as independent variables, with assessment of the associations between these variables by univariate and multivariate testing.

Results:  Sixty outpatients reporting chronic cough and/or phle\gm were enrolled (16 non‐smokers/44 smokers; COPD: 26, 43.3%). Both lung function and elastic fibres in the reticular dermis (fibres/mm2rs = 0.36, percentage of the histologic field filled by elastic fibres rs = 0.48, P ≤ 0.01) correlated with cumulative smoking (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient). Lung function parameters correlated with percentage of the histologic field filled by elastic fibres (FEV1%: r = −0.43; FEV1/FVC%: r = −0.36 and RV/TLC%: r = 0.43; P ≤ 0.01, Pearson correlation coefficient), and COPD was significantly related to this morphologic parameter (odds ratio 1.26, 95% confidence interval 1.06–1.48; P = 0.006), associations that depended mainly on cumulative smoking.

Conclusion:  Lung function impairment with an obstructive pattern is associated with morphologic abnormalities in the reticular dermis appearing in the histologic section as an increase in the percentage of the field filled by elastic fibres. This relationship depends on cumulative smoking and suggests a common effect of smoking on the elastic fibres in both lung and skin.
Pimecrolimus permeates less than tacrolimus through normal, inflamed, or corticosteroid‐pretreated skin
Authors: Meingassner Josef G. , Aschauer Heinrich , Stuetz Anton , Billich Andreas
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  The permeabilities of normal human and normal, inflamed, or corticosteroid (CS) pretreated skin of young domestic pigs for pimecrolimus and tacrolimus were compared in vitro, using Franz‐type diffusion cells. The test articles were either used as 1.0% solutions or as the marketed formulations (Elidel 1% cream, Protopic 0.1%, and 0.03% ointment). In normal human skin, the permeation rate of pimecrolimus from the 1% cream was about sixfold lower than that of tacrolimus from 0.1% ointment and by a factor of 4.3 lower compared with tacrolimus from Protopic 0.03%. In pigs, sodium laurylsulfate‐induced irritant contact dermatitis resulted in significantly faster skin permeation of both drugs from applied solutions. The permeation rate for pimecrolimus was lower than that for tacrolimus. Thus, at 24 h, pimecrolimus concentrations in the receptor fluid were 2.8‐fold lower than the tacrolimus levels. Compared with normal porcine skin, permeation of drugs through hydrocortisone (1.0%)‐, mometasone (0.1%)‐, or clobetasol‐17‐butyrate (0.05%)‐pretreated skin was increased by factors of 3.6 (pimecrolimus, applied as 1% cream) and 1.7 (tacrolimus, applied as 0.1% ointment). In normal pig skin, the permeation rate of tacrolimus was found to be 11.2 times higher than that of pimecrolimus and 3.5‐ to 7.1‐fold higher in CS‐pretreated skin, independent of the potency of the CSs. The present in vitro data suggest that in patients with acute skin inflammation or after therapy with topical CSs, percutaneous absorption and, as a consequence, systemic drug exposure will be lower with Elidel 1% cream as compared with Protopic 0.1% and 0.03% ointment.
Interactions among stratum corneum defensive functions
Authors: Elias Peter M. , Choi Eung Ho
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  With the exception of vitamin D production, virtually all epidermal functions can be considered as protective, or more specifically, as defensive in nature (1). Yet, the term “barrier function” of the stratum corneum (SC) is often used synonymously with only one such defensive function, although arguably its most important, i.e., permeability barrier homeostasis. Regardless of their hierarchy of relative importance, these critical protective functions largely reside in the SC. In this short review, we explore the ways in which the multiple defensive functions of the SC are linked and interrelated, either by their shared localization or by common biochemical processes.
Interactions between naturalised exotic salmonids and reintroduced Atlantic salmon in a Lake Ontario tributary
Authors: Scott R. J. , Judge K. A. , Ramster K. , Noakes D. L. G. , Beamish F. W. H.
Published: September 2005

Abstract – Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) was once native to Lake Ontario, however, its numbers rapidly declined following colonisation by Europeans and the species was extirpated by 1896. Government agencies surrounding Lake Ontario are currently undertaking a variety of studies to assess the feasibility of reintroducing Atlantic salmon. We released hatchery‐reared adult Atlantic salmon into a Lake Ontario tributary to examine spawning interactions between this species and fall‐spawning exotic salmonids found in the same stream. Chinook salmon, coho salmon and brown trout were observed interacting with spawning Atlantic salmon in nearly one‐quarter of our observation bouts, with chinook salmon interacting most frequently. Whereas a previous investigation found that chinook salmon caused elevated agonistic behaviour and general activity by spawning Atlantic salmon, the present study found that interspecific courtship was the most common form of exotic interaction with spawning Atlantic salmon. In particular, we observed precocial male Chinook salmon courting female Atlantic salmon and defending the female against approach by male Atlantic salmon. We discuss the potential implications of these interactions on the Lake Ontario Atlantic salmon reintroduction programme.
Comparison of four direct algorithms for computing inbreeding coefficients
Authors: SARGOLZAEI Mehdi , IWAISAKI Hiroaki
Published: September 2005

One widely used measure in genetic analyses of livestock species is the inbreeding coefficient. Computation costs of inbreeding coefficients are of importance for large populations. Very recently, a ‘direct’ method for computing inbreeding coefficients was modified using a relatively efficient method to construct lists of ancestors in which the integrity of chronological order within each ancestral path is kept. Using simulated data, the computational efficiency of the recently modified algorithm was investigated by comparing it with three other algorithms – the original direct algorithm, its previously modified algorithm and another direct algorithm. The recently modified algorithm became considerably faster than the original algorithm and its previous modification when the number of generations increased, and it was fast relative to the other direct algorithm when the average number of generations and family size were not large. When only animals born in the most recent year were evaluated with the knowledge of inbreeding coefficients for their ancestors, the recently modified algorithm outperformed the other algorithms, indicating its possible advantage in updating situations.