bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Invariant scaling of phytoplankton abundance and cell size in contrasting marine environments
Authors: Cermeño Pedro , Marañón Emilio , Harbour Derek , Harris Roger P.
Published: September 2006

Scaling relationships such as the variation of population abundance with body size provide links between individual organisms and ecosystem functioning. Previous work, in marine pelagic ecosystems, has focused on the relationship between total phytoplankton abundance and the assemblage mean cell size. However, the relationship between specific population abundance and cell size in marine phytoplankton has received little attention. Here, we show that cell size accounts for a significant amount of variability in the population abundance of phytoplankton species across a cell volume range spanning seven orders of magnitude. The interspecific scaling of population abundance and cell size takes a power exponent near −3/4. Unexpectedly, despite the constraints imposed on large phytoplankton by limited resource acquisition, the size scaling exponent does not differ between contrasting marine environments such as coastal and subtropical regions. These findings highlight the adaptive abilities of individual species to cope with different environmental conditions and suggest that a general rule such as the ‘energetic equivalence’ constrains the abundance of phytoplankton populations in marine pelagic ecosystems.
Weed evolution after crop gene introgression: greater survival and fecundity of hybrids in a new environment
Authors: Campbell Lesley G. , Snow Allison A. , Ridley Caroline E.
Published: September 2006

Crop‐wild hybridization may produce offspring with lower fitness than their wild parents due to deleterious crop traits and outbreeding depression. Over time, however, selection for improved fitness could lead to greater invasiveness of hybrid taxa. To examine evolutionary change in crop‐wild hybrids, we established four wild (Raphanus raphanistrum) and four hybrid radish populations (R. raphanistrum × Raphanus sativus) in Michigan (MI), USA. Hybrid and wild populations had similar growth rates over four generations, and pollen fertility of hybrids improved. We then measured hybrid and wild fitness components in two common garden sites within the geographical range of wild radish [MI and California (CA)]. Advanced generation hybrids had slightly lower lifetime fecundity than wild plants in MI but exhibited c. 270% greater lifetime fecundity and c. 22% greater survival than wild plants in CA. Our results support the hypothesis that crop‐wild hybridization may create genotypes with the potential to displace parental taxa in new environments.
Exploitation of archived marine nematodes — a hot lysis DNA extraction protocol for molecular studies
Authors: Bhadury Punyasloke , Austen Melanie C. , Bilton David T. , Lambshead P. John D. , Rogers Alex D. , Smerdon Gary R.
Published: September 2006

Museums and other research organizations around the world have large numbers of formalin‐fixed marine invertebrates in their collections. These have the potential to be a valuable resource for molecular ecological studies, but the development of methodologies for the molecular analysis of formalin‐fixed material has been slow. In this study, a hot lysis protocol accompanied by the use of a commercial DNA extraction kit has been employed for DNA recovery from archived marine nematodes, followed by PCR amplification and sequencing. In total, 25 specimens ranging from estuarine to deep sea environments were subjected to molecular analyses. Successful amplification and sequencing of the nuclear small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) gene was achieved in all individuals. Additionally, some estuarine nematodes were tentatively identified to genus and species using a phylogenetic approach. In the future, this technique should prove to be profitable for the genetic study of a wide range of formalin‐fixed marine invertebrates.
The Small World of Corporate Boards
Authors: Conyon Martin J. , Muldoon Mark R.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  We demonstrate the importance of graph theory for understanding boards of directors. Specifically, we focus on the ‘small world’ phenomenon. Our empirical results show that a random graph model is remarkably good at explaining board structure and connectedness in the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany. Although there are small‐world traits such as ‘clustering’ and ‘short‐paths’ in the corporate world, they are no more pronounced than would be expected by chance in a statistically similar, but randomly assembled corporate universe. In short, boards of directors, especially in the United States, are no more ‘clubby’ than expected. Finally, our results show the existence of positive degree correlation: directors who sit on many boards do so in the company of other directors who sit on many boards. Board members whose services are in high demand, serve on boards with similar directors.
Microscopic and histological examination of the mouse hindpaw digit and flexor tendon arrangement with 3D reconstruction
Authors: Wong Jason , Bennett William , Ferguson Mark W. J. , McGrouther Duncan A.
Published: September 2006

Mice are currently the species of choice for thein vivostudy of injury, but few detailed anatomical descriptions have been made of rodent digits, limiting their use for the investigation of intrasynovial tendon healing. In this study a detailed microscopic and histological investigation was performed using C57/BL6 and Tie2 LacZ reporter gene transgenic mice. Serial‐sectioned mouse hindpaw digits were characterized using haematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome (collagen), Alcian blue (fibrocartilage), Miller's stain (elastin) and TRITC‐phalloidin (cellular cytoskeleton) staining. Digital vasculature was demonstrated using FITC‐labelled dextran perfusion studies supplemented with LacZ expression in Tie2 LacZ transgenic mice digits. Imaging of the digit used a combination of brightfield and confocal microscopy with three‐dimensional reconstruction. Our findings demonstrated that the mouse hindpaw possesses deep and superficial flexor tendons within a synovial sheath comparable with that found in other mammalian species. The intrasynovial tendons were avascular and had regions of fibrocartilaginous specialization relating to areas of compression. Corresponding vascular networks were demonstrated around the sheath using Tie2 LacZ mice and FITC‐perfused hindpaws. Furthermore, there is an area of digit where both deep and superficial tendons reside between two pulleys, similar to zone 2 in the human hand where it would be possible to study intrasynovial tendon injury and adhesion formation. In conclusion, although the dimensions of the mouse digit pose technical challenges for surgical intervention, we have identified a model for the study of flexor tendon injury that will permit future genetic manipulation studies.
Plant CO2 responses: an issue of definition, time and resource supply
Authors: Körner Christian
Published: September 2006

In this review I am drawing attention to some constraints and biases in CO2 enrichment experiments and the analysis of data in the literature. Conclusions drawn from experimental works differ when the data are grouped in a way such that the relative frequency of test conditions does not determine the emerging trends, for instance unrealistically strong CO2–‘fertilization’ effects, which are in conflict with some basic ecological principles. I suggest separating three test conditions: uncoupled systems (plants not depending in a natural nutrient cycle) (I); expanding systems, in which plants are given ample space and time to explore otherwise limited resources (II); and fully coupled systems in which the natural nutrient cycling governs growth at steady‐state leaf area index (LAI) and fine root renewal (III). Data for 10 type III experiments yield rather moderate effects of elevated CO2 on plant biomass production, if any. In steady‐state grassland, the effects are water‐related; in closed tree stands, initial effects decline rapidly with time. Plant–soil coupling (soil conditions) deserves far greater attention than plant–atmosphere coupling (CO2 enrichment technology).

Contents

Summary
393

I.
A traditionally scarce resource becomes abundant
394

II.
Photosynthesis is not saturated at current CO2 concentrations
395

III.
The fate of extra carbon
396

IV.
Co drivers of plant growth responses to elevated CO2
397

V.
Plant CO2 responses as a function of time
399

VI.
Plant CO2 responses per unit land area, a matter of definition
401

VII.
CO2 effects on biomass carbon stores depend on tree demography
402

VIII.
Biomass responses to elevated CO2 in steady state  and expanding systems
403

IX.
Conclusions
405

Acknowledgements
406

References
406
Intravenous versus oral iron therapy for postpartum anaemia
Authors: Bhandal N , Russell R
Published: September 2006

Objective Postpartum iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is common in women. Most women are treated with either oral iron supplementation or blood transfusion. Hence, the aim of our study was to compare the effect of treatment with either oral ferrous sulphate or intravenous ferrous sucrose on postpartum IDA.

Design A single centre, prospective randomised controlled trial.

Setting Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.

Population Forty‐four women with haemoglobin (Hb) of <9 g/dl and ferritin of <15 microgram/l at 24–48 hours postdelivery.

Methods Women were randomised to receive either oral ferrous sulphate 200 mg twice daily for 6 weeks (group O) or intravenous ferrous sucrose 200 mg (Venofer; Vifor International Ltd, St Gallen, Switzerland), two doses given on days 2 and 4 following recruitment (group I). Results were analysed by the Studentst‐test, chi‐square test and analysis of variance.

Main outcome measures Hb, haematocrit, red cell indices, ferritin and serum iron levels were measured on days 0, 5, 14 and 40.

Results By day 5, the Hb level in women treated with intravenous iron had risen from 7.3 ± 0.9 to 9.9 ± 0.7 g/dl, while there was no change in those treated with oral iron. Women treated with intravenous iron had significantly higher Hb levels on days 5 and 14 (P< 0.01) than those treated with oral iron; although by day 40, there was no significant difference between the two groups. Throughout the study, ferritin levels rose rapidly in those treated with intravenous iron and remained significantly higher than in those treated with oral iron (P< 0.01).

Conclusions Intravenous iron sucrose increases the Hb level more rapidly than oral ferrous sulphate in women with postpartum IDA. It also appears to replenish iron stores more rapidly. However, this study was not large enough to address the safety of this strategy.
Combined effects of maternal smoking status and dietary intake related to weight gain and birth size parameters
Authors: Olafsdottir AS , Skuladottir GV , Thorsdottir I , Hauksson A , Steingrimsdottir L
Published: September 2006

Objective  To investigate the interaction of smoking status and dietary intake during pregnancy and its relationship to maternal weight gain and birth size parameters.

Design  An observational prospective study.

Setting  Free‐living conditions.

Population  Four hundred and eight healthy pregnant Icelandic women.

Methods  Maternal smoking status, lifestyle factors and dietary habits were evaluated with questionnaires. Intake of foods and supplements was also estimated with a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire for the previous 3 months. All questionnaires were filled out between 11 and 15 weeks and between 34 and 37 weeks of gestation. Smoking status in relation to optimal and/or excessive weight gain during pregnancy was represented with logistic regression controlling for potential confounding factors.

Main outcome measures  Maternal weight gain, smoking status, dietary intake and birthweight.

Results  Women who smoked throughout pregnancy were unlikely to gain optimal weight or more (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.27–0.97), whereas smoking cessation in connection with pregnancy (‘former smokers’) doubled the risk of excessive weight gain (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.24–3.35). The latter association was no longer significant after adjustment for dietary factors and other confounding factors. Former smokers ate the least amount of fruit and vegetables (fruit: 129 versus 180 and 144 g/day (median), P= 0.038; vegetables: 53 versus 76 and 72 g/day, P= 0.026 for former smokers, nonsmokers and smokers, respectively). Birthweight was lowest among infants born to smokers, but birthweight was similar for former smokers and nonsmokers (3583 ± 491 g versus 3791 ± 461 g and 3826 ± 466 g, respectively; P= 0.003).

Conclusions  Smoking cessation in early pregnancy or pre‐pregnancy is not associated with low birthweight. It is, however, associated with excessive maternal weight gain and a low fruit and vegetable intake.
Adiponectin and insulin resistance in early‐ and late‐onset pre‐eclampsia
Authors: D’Anna R , Baviera G , Corrado F , Giordano D , De Vivo A , Nicocia G , Di Benedetto A
Published: September 2006

Objective  To evaluate the importance of adiponectin and insulin resistance in early‐ and late‐onset pre‐eclampsia.

Design  A nested case–control study in 72 pregnant women who participated in the first‐trimester Down‐syndrome‐screening programme and who delivered at our hospital.

Setting  University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Population  Pregnant women: 36 women with pre‐eclampsia of which 20 late onset and 16 early onset were compared with 36 uncomplicated pregnancies who delivered at term.

Methods  In all the women, insulin resistance was calculated by the homeostasis model assessment ratio (HOMA‐IR) and plasma adiponectin was determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Main outcome measures  Insulin resistance and adiponectin concentration.

Results  First‐trimester plasma adiponectin mean levels in the whole pre‐eclampsia group were significantly lower than that in the control group (8.4 ± 3.3 versus 14.8 ± 4.6 microgram/ml; P < 0.001), whereas first‐trimester mean HOMA‐IR values were significantly higher in the pre‐eclampsia group than that in the control group (2.0 ± 1.1 versus 1.0 ± 0.4; P= 0.01). Plasma adiponectin concentrations at delivery in the pre‐eclampsia group were significantly higher than that in the control group (9.2 ± 3.7 versus 7.8 ± 2.6 microgram/ml; P= 0.04). First‐trimester plasma adiponectin mean concentrations in the late‐onset subgroup were significantly lower compared with the concentrations in early‐onset subgroup (6.2 ± 1.4 microgram/ml versus 11.1 ± 3.2 microgram/ml; P < 0.001), and there was a significant difference in adiponectin plasma values only between women in the late‐onset pre‐eclampsia group versus those in the control group (P < 0.001). First‐trimester mean HOMA‐IR values were significantly higher in the late‐onset subgroup compared with that of the early‐onset subgroup (2.5 ± 1.3 versus 1.3 ± 0.3; P= 0.02), and there was a significant difference only between the control group versus the late‐onset subgroup (P= 0.001).

Conclusions  First‐trimester adiponectin and HOMA‐IR values seem to select two completely different populations: early‐ and late‐onset pre‐eclampsia, which might suggest a different pathogenesis.
Association between lactate in vaginal fluid and time to spontaneous onset of labour for women with suspected prelabour rupture of the membranes
Authors: Wiberg‐Itzel E , Pettersson H , Cnattingius S , Nordstrom L
Published: September 2006

Objectives  To assess whether lactate determination in vaginal fluid is associated with, and can predict, onset of labour for women with suspected prelabour rupture of the membranes (PROM).

Design  Prospective observational study.

Setting  Labour ward at Soder Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.

Population  Women with suspected PROM after 34 weeks of gestation, who later had spontaneous onset of labour (n= 179).

Methods  All women underwent a speculum examination and a test for determining lactate concentration in vaginal fluid. We used logistic regression to estimate the association between lactate concentration in vaginal fluid and time to onset of labour.

Main outcome measures  Time from examination to onset of labour (cervix ≥4 cm), within 24 hours and 48 hours.

Results  The median time interval between examination and spontaneous onset of labour was 8.4 hours for women with ‘high’ lactate (≥4.5 mmol/l) and 54 hours for those with ‘low’ lactate concentrations (<4.5 mmol/l). Among 86 women with high lactate concentrations, 76 (88%) had started labour within 24 hours compared with 20 of 93 (22%) women with low lactate concentrations (OR 27.7, 95% CI 12.2–63.3). After checking for the effect of visible amniotic fluid, the corresponding odds were still substantially increased (OR 13.5, 95% CI 5.3–34.3).

Conclusions  High lactate concentration (≥4.5 mmol/l) in vaginal fluid can be used to predict whether a woman with suspected PROM will commence spontaneous onset of labour within 24 or 48 hours.
Proinsulin/insulin is synthesized locally and prevents caspase‐ and cathepsin‐mediated cell death in the embryonic mouse retina
Authors: Valenciano Ana I. , Corrochano Silvia , De Pablo Flora , De La Villa Pedro , De La Rosa Enrique J.
Published: September 2006

Programmed cell death is an essential, highly regulated process in neural development. Although the role of insulin‐like growth factor I in supporting the survival of neural cells has been well characterized, studies on proinsulin/insulin are scarce. Here, we characterize proinsulin/insulin effects on cell death in embryonic day 15.5 mouse retina. Both proinsulin mRNA and proinsulin/insulin immunoreactivity were found in the developing retina. Organotypic embryonic day 15.5 retinas cultured under growth factor deprivation showed an increase in cell death that was reversed by proinsulin, insulin and insulin‐like growth factor I, with similar median effective concentration values via phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase activation. Although insulin and insulin‐like growth factor I provoked a sustained Akt phosphorylation, proinsulin‐induced phosphorylation of Akt was not found. Analysis of the growth factor deprivation‐induced cell death mechanisms, using caspase and cathepsin inhibitors, demonstrated that both protease families were required for the effective execution of cell death. The insulin survival effect, which decreased the extent and distribution of cell death to levels similar to those found in vivo, was not enhanced by simultaneous treatment with caspase and cathepsin inhibitors, suggesting that insulin interferes with these protease pathways in the embryonic mouse retina. The mechanisms characterized in this study provide new details on early neural cell death and its genuine regulation by insulin/proinsulin.
Difference in the time of mating activity between host‐associated populations of the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Walker)
Authors: UENO Hideki , FURUKAWA Shunsuke , TSUCHIDA Koji
Published: September 2006

Mating activities of the rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis, were compared between rice‐ and wateroat‐feeding populations, and two potential temporal factors that may act as reproductive barriers were examined. Seasonal data of the number of moths attracted to pheromone traps showed that the peak of emergence at the rice field was approximately 10 days earlier than that at the wateroat vegetation in the first flight season, although there was a broad overlap of emergence at the two locations. Both field observations and a laboratory experiment showed that moths from the rice field started mating earlier than those from the wateroat vegetation. However, whereas the difference was distinctive in the laboratory experiment, mating activity at the wateroat vegetation shifted significantly to an earlier time phase than that observed in the laboratory. Body size data showed that the male moths attracted to the pheromone traps at the wateroat vegetation were significantly larger than those at the rice field, suggesting that the traps at the two locations mainly attracted moths originating from different host plants. However, pheromone‐trapped males at the rice field were significantly larger than those reared from overwintering samples. These results support the idea that males from the wateroat vegetation migrate to the rice field. The differences in seasonal and temporal mating activity and their effects on development of reproductive isolation between host‐associated populations are discussed.
Effects of the juvenile hormone mimic pyriproxyfen on female reproduction and longevity in the butterfly Bicyclus anynana
Authors: STEIGENGA Marc J. , HOFFMANN Klaus H. , FISCHER Klaus
Published: September 2006

Female Bicyclus anynana butterflies given pyriproxyfen, a mimic of juvenile hormone, exhibited increased egg‐laying rates and early fecundity, but reduced longevity compared with control animals. Thus, pyriproxyfen application yielded antagonistic effects on different components of fitness, possibly demonstrating a juvenile hormone‐mediated trade‐off between present and future reproduction. Lifetime fecundity and egg size, however, showed no consistent response to pyriproxyfen, with lifetime fecundity being increased or decreased and egg size being reduced in one out of four experiments only. Females were most sensitive to pyriproxyfen around the onset of oviposition, coinciding with naturally increasing juvenile hormone titers in other Lepidoptera. Amounts between 1 and 10 µg pyriproxyfen were found to be effective, with, however, pronounced differences among experiments. This is attributed to differences in assay conditions. High pyriproxyfen concentrations (100 µg) as well as repeated applications of smaller amounts did not affect reproductive traits, but tended to reduce longevity.
Abaristophora sachalinensis Michailovskaya (Diptera: Phoridae) representing genitalic affinities with the genus Borophaga Enderlein
Authors: NAKAYAMA Hiroto , SHIMA Hiroshi
Published: September 2006

Abaristophora sachalinensis Michailovskaya is reviewed based on Japanese materials. Its male genitalia are compared with those of the genus Borophaga, which is a genus in a group of the related genera, the Borophaga subgroup. A synapomorphic character of the Borophaga subgroup including Abaristophora, the left flattened arm derived from the posterodorsal margin of the hypandrium being broadened at the base, is confirmed in A. sachalinensis. Morphology of the aedeagus in A. sachalinensis is complex and extremely asymmetric, and very similar to that of species of the genus Borophaga, but the characters observed in this study are not regarded as synapomorphic for the Borophaga subgroup.
Fungivory of Anatatha lignea, an interesting habit in Noctuidae (Lepidoptera)
Authors: YOSHIMATSU Shin‐ichi , NAKATA Yukitatsu
Published: September 2006

The larvae of Anatatha lignea (Butler) were found consuming the brown surface of synthetic logs on which the shiitake mushroom, Lentinula edodes (Berk.) Pegler, formed a thick mycelial coat. Fungivory has been rarely reported in the Noctuidae, and this is the first record of fungivory from the genus Anatatha. The female genitalia and the immature stages of A. lignea are illustrated and described for the first time. Its lectotype is designated and illustrated, and details of the species’ biology is given. The female genitalia of A. misae Sugi, a species closely related to A. lignea, are illustrated and described for the first time.
A systematic study of the pulchra species group of Archips occurring in Japan (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)
Authors: JINBO Utsugi
Published: September 2006

This paper reviews the pulchra species group of Archips, describes a new species, Archips stellata, and redescribes A. pulchra (Butler) and A. abiephaga (Yasuda). Although long confused with each other, these three species are distinguishable by differences in the wing markings, abdominal dorsal pits, and genitalia. To position the pulchra group systematically within the genus Archips, earlier related studies are reviewed and the phylogenetic relevance and polarities of traits are discussed. The forewing pattern, consisting of transverse black and glossy gray fasciae, is presumed to be the only synapomorphy of this group; affinity between the pulchra group and other groups of Archips in some traits may reflect symplesiomorphy.
Linear IgA Bullous Disease of Childhood: An Experience from Kuwait
Authors: Nanda Arti , Dvorak Richard , Al‐Sabah Humoud , Alsaleh Qasem A.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  Linear IgA bullous disease of childhood is a rare autoimmune blistering disease. We report eight patients with this disease seen in our autoimmune bullous diseases clinic over a span of 12 years. They constituted 89% of the total number of those with linear IgA bullous disease of childhood seen during this period, with an age‐adjusted minimum estimated incidence of 2.3 cases/million population/year. Males outnumbered females by a 1.7:1 ratio. The age at onset ranged between 10.5 months and 13 years, with a mean of 6.8 ± 4.17 years. The majority of patients (62.5%) had moderately severe disease. Fifty percent of patients were observed to have an association with either an autoimmune disease (Crohn disease and post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis in one each) or an infection (β‐hemolytic streptococcal and hepatitis A virus infection in one each). The treatment of choice was dapsone alone or in combination with systemic steroids. Seventy‐one percent of patients achieved complete remission by the end of 2 years. The study highlights the significance of systematic clinicoepidemiologic surveys from different regions.
Traumatic Keratoacanthoma Arising in a 15‐Year‐Old Boy Following a Motor Vehicle Accident
Authors: Janik Joseph P. , Bang Ran H.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  Keratoacanthomas appear most commonly in sun‐damaged skin in middle‐aged and elderly people. We present a 15‐year‐old boy who developed a rapidly growing nodule within a hypertrophic scar that was the result of trauma suffered in a roll‐over motor vehicle accident 8 months prior to presentation. Histologic analysis of a biopsy specimen of the nodule confirmed the presence of squamous cell carcinoma, keratoacanthoma type. The development of keratoacanthoma has been associated with sun exposure, chemical carcinogens, radiation therapy, genetic factors, and various forms of antecedent trauma, including surgery or grafting, thermal burns, laser resurfacing, and vaccination. This report describes the youngest patient with traumatically‐induced keratoacanthoma, and is the first instance of this entity arising in a friction burn.
Porokeratotic Eccrine Ostial and Dermal Duct Nevus
Authors: Warren R. B. , Verbov J. L. , Kokai G. K.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  Porokeratotic eccrine ostial and dermal duct nevus is a rare disorder characterized by distinctive histopathology. We describe a 6‐year‐old boy who had the typical palmar involvement and small discrete areas involving the midline of his back.
Hypopituitarism in PHACES Association
Authors: Goddard Deborah S. , Liang Marilyn G. , Chamlin Sarah L. , Svoren Britta M. , Spack Norman P. , Mulliken John B.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  The association consisting of posterior fossal malformations, cervicofacial, hemangiomas, arterial anomalies, cardiac defects, eye anomalies, and sternal clefting, or supraumbilical raphe, refers to the occurrence of congenital structural and vascular anomalies in the presence of a facial hemangioma. We report a patient with this association, growth retardation, and developmental delay who was found to have a partially empty sella turcica, central hypothyroidism, and growth hormone deficiency. Endocrinologic evaluation should be considered in any infant with this association.
Hypopigmented Mycosis Fungoides Associated with Atopy in Two Children
Authors: Onsun N. , Kural Y. , Su Ö. , Demirkesen C. , Büyükbabani N.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  Mycosis fungoides is very rare in children. Hypopigmented lesions of this disease are usually observed in dark‐skinned individuals and often show a T supressor CD8(+) phenotype. Two Caucasian children with predominantly hypopigmented lesions of mycosis fungoides are presented here. Atopy was a concomitant feature in both.
Nonpigmenting Confluent and Reticulated Papillomatosis
Authors: James R. Treat , Orr G. Barak , William D. James
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  We report three teenaged Caucasian patients with confluent and reticulated papillomatosis whose presentation was atypical due to the absence of hyperpigmentation and presence of a fine white scale.
Dactinomycin‐Induced, Severe Lichenoid Eruption in a Child
Authors: Ridola V. , Mahé E. , Fawaz O. , Galmiche L. , Patte C. , Grill J.
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  There is little information in the medical literature about skin rashes associated with dactinomycin in the absence of radiotherapy. We report a 12‐month‐old male child who developed a severe cutaneous reaction that consisted of a widespread pruritic papular eruption associated with fever and a poor general state after dactinomycin administration. Skin biopsy specimen findings confirmed the diagnosis of lichenoid eruption. The rash improved with topical steroid treatment and completely resolved within 1 month with persistence of a residual mild hyperpigmentation. Dactinomycin administration was discontinued for the remaining cycles of chemotherapy.
Successful Treatment of Pediatric Psoriasis with Indigo naturalis Composite Ointment
Authors: Lin Yin‐Ku , Yen Hung‐Rong , Wong Wen‐Rou , Yang Sien‐Hung , Pang Jong‐Hwei Su
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  The treatment of psoriasis in children is still an intractable problem and demands a long‐term therapy with prolonged efficacy that is free from serious adverse events. Many modes of therapy are currently in use but the disease is often resistant to treatment owing to the unacceptable toxicity that leads to poor compliance. Therefore, to develop an alternative treatment is indispensable. Traditional Chinese medicine has been documented for over 1000 years to provide various effective treatments for inflammatory skin diseases. Herein, we report an 8‐year‐old boy with recalcitrant pediatric psoriasis who, after multiple treatment failures with conventional antipsoriatic medications, showed remarkable clinical improvement with 8 weeks of topical treatment with Indigo naturalis composite ointment. Remission has lasted for over 2 years until now. Our patient's response suggests that topical Indigo naturalis composite ointment may provide a safe and effective alternative treatment for pediatric psoriasis.
The Continual Reassessment Method for Multiple Toxicity Grades: A Bayesian Quasi‐Likelihood Approach
Authors: Yuan Z. , Chappell R. , Bailey H.
Published: September 2006

Summary We consider the case of phase I trials for treatment of cancer or other severe diseases in which grade information is available about the severity of toxicity. Most dose allocation procedures dichotomize toxicity grades based on being dose limiting, which may not work well for severe and possibly irreversible toxicities such as renal, liver, and neurological toxicities, or toxicities with long duration. We propose a simple extension to the continual reassessment method (CRM), called the Quasi‐CRM, to incorporate grade information. Toxicity grades are first converted to numeric scores that reflect their impacts on the dose allocation procedure, and then incorporated into the CRM using the quasi‐Bernoulli likelihood. A simulation study demonstrates that the Quasi‐CRM is superior to the standard CRM and comparable to a univariate version of the Bekele and Thall method (2004, Journal of the American Statistical Association99, 26–35). We also present sensitivity analysis of the new method with respect to toxicity scores, and discuss practical issues such as extending the simple algorithmic up‐and‐down designs.
Tailoring the Mutual Gains Approach for Negotiations with Partners in Japan, China, and Korea
Authors: Movius Hal , Matsuura Masa , Yan Jin , Kim Dong‐Young
Published: September 2006

An increasing number of Western firms are negotiating agreements with business partners in Asia and must achieve business‐critical results while building and protecting relationships. In this article, we review the literature regarding negotiation norms and approaches in Japan, China, and Korea. Drawing on structured interviews with experienced business executives at Hewlett–Packard, a U.S. corporation with a substantial presence in these countries, we highlight ways in which cross‐cultural difficulties can arise in negotiations between American organizations and their Eastern counterparts. We note similarities and differences across these cultures and propose an expanded prescriptive model on how to adapt and implement a mutual gains approach to negotiation with counterparts who are based in Japan, China, and Korea.
Sec16 Defines Endoplasmic Reticulum Exit Sites and is Required for Secretory Cargo Export in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Watson Peter , Townley Anna K. , Koka Pratyusha , Palmer Krysten J. , Stephens David J.
Published: September 2006

The selective export of proteins and lipids from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is mediated by the coat protein complex II (COPII) that assembles onto the ER membrane. In higher eukaryotes, COPII proteins assemble at discrete sites on the membrane known as ER exit sites (ERES). Here, we identify Sec16 as the protein that defines ERES in mammalian cells. Sec16 localizes to ERES independent of Sec23/24 and Sec13/31. Overexpression, and to a lesser extent, small interfering RNA depletion of Sec16, both inhibit ER‐to‐Golgi transport suggesting that Sec16 is required in stoichiometric amounts. Sar1 activity is required to maintain the localization of Sec16 at discrete locations on the ER membrane, probably through preventing its dissociation. Our data suggest that Sar1‐GTP‐dependent assembly of Sec16 on the ER membrane forms an organized scaffold defining an ERES.
The giant arc statistics in the three-year Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe cosmological model
Authors: Li G. L. , Mao S. , Jing Y. P. , Mo H. J. , Gao L. , Lin W. P.
Published: September 2006

We use high-resolution N-body simulations to investigate the optical depth of giant arcs with length-to-width ratios larger than 7.5 and 10 in the ‘standard’Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model with σ8 = 0.9 and Ωm,0 = 0.3 and a model based on three-year Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe (WMAP) data. We find that, in dark-matter-only simulations, the lensing probability in the three-year WMAP model (with σ8 = 0.74 and Ωm,0 = 0.238) decreases by a factor of ∼6 compared with that in the ‘standard’Λ cold dark matter (ΛCDM) model. The effects of baryonic cooling, star formation and feedbacks are uncertain, but we argue that baryons will only increase the the lensing cross-section by a moderate factor, ∼2. We conclude that the low central value of σ8 and Ωm,0 preferred by the WMAP three-year data may be too low to be compatible with observations if the conventional assumptions of the background source population are correct.
Extremely red objects in the UKIDSS Ultra Deep Survey Early Data Release
Authors: Simpson Chris , Almaini Omar , Cirasuolo Michele , Dunlop Jim , Foucaud Sébastien , Hirst Paul , Ivison Rob , Page Mat , Rawlings Steve , Sekiguchi Kaz , Smail Ian , Watson Mike
Published: September 2006

We construct a sample of extremely red objects (EROs) within the UKIDSS Ultra Deep Survey by combining the Early Data Release with optical data from the Subaru/XMM–Newton Deep Field. We find a total of 3715 objects over 2013 arcmin2 with R−K > 5.3 and K≤ 20.3, which is a higher surface density than found by previous studies. This is partly due to our ability to use a small aperture in which to measure colours, but is also the result of a genuine overdensity of objects compared to other fields. We separate our sample into passively evolving and dusty star-forming galaxies using their RJK colours and investigate their radio properties using a deep radio map. The dusty population has a higher fraction of individually detected radio sources and a higher mean radio flux density among the undetected objects, but the passive population has a higher fraction of bright radio sources, suggesting that active galactic nuclei are more prevalent among the passive ERO population.
Traumatic bilateral ureteric rupture in two dogs
Authors: Hamilton M. H. , Sissener T. R. , Baines S. J.
Published: September 2006

Two cases of bilateral ureteric rupture in dogs are reported. Both dogs were presented following road traffic accidents with signs of depression and abdominal distension. Both animals were azotaemic and abdominal fluid analysis was consistent with uroabdomen. In case 1, the injuries affected the proximal portion of both ureters and the dog was euthanased. In case 2, the ruptures were located more distally and a ureteroneocystostomy was performed, with contralateral ureteronephrectomy. This dog is clinically normal 16 months postoperatively.
Analysis and Optimization of Transonic Centrifugal Compressor Impellers Using the Design of Experiments Technique
Authors: Bonaiuti Duccio , Arnone Andrea , Ermini Mirco , Baldassarre Leonardo
Published: September 2006

The turbomachine industry is increasingly interested in developing automated design procedures that are able to summarize current design experience, to take into account manufacturing limitations and to define new rules for improving machine performance. In this paper, a strategy for the parametric analysis and optimization of transonic centrifugal impellers was developed, using the technique of the design of experiments coupled with a three dimensional fluid-dynamic solver. The geometrical parameterization was conducted using Bezier curves and a few geometrical parameters, which were chosen after a screening analysis in order to determine the most significant ones. The range of variation of the parameters was defined taking into account the manufacturing requirements. The analysis of the influence of such parameters on the main impeller performance was subdivided into two steps: first, the effect of the parameters acting on the blade shape was investigated and an optimum configuration was chosen, then the influence of three functional parameters was analyzed, fixing the already optimized variables. The whole strategy aimed at an industrial design approach, and attention was focused on the time required in the design process. From the present analysis it was possible not only to define an optimum geometry, but also to understand the influence of the input parameters on the main machine performance.
Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer in Two-Pass Smooth Rectangular Channels With Different Turn Clearances
Authors: Nakayama Hiroshi , Hirota Masafumi , Fujita Hideomi , Yamada Takeshi , Koide Yusuke
Published: September 2006

Flow characteristics in stationary two-pass channels with a sharp 180-deg turn have been measured using LDV (laser Doppler velocimeter), directing special attention to the influence of the size of the turn clearance on the flow structure. The main features of the flow, flow separation and recirculation, secondary flow, turbulence intensities, measured with Re=3.5×104 for three turn clearances, are presented. A close comparison of the velocity data with local Sherwood number distributions on the channel walls reveals that the wall-normal velocity mainly dominates the heat transfer in the channel, but the wall-parallel component also contributes locally to heat transfer after the turn.
The Dynamics of the Horseshoe Vortex and Associated Endwall Heat Transfer—Part I: Temporal Behavior
Authors: Praisner T. J. , Smith C. R.
Published: September 2006

Instantaneous flow topology and the associated endwall heat transfer in the leading-edge endwall region of a symmetric airfoil are presented. An experimental technique was employed that allowed the simultaneous recording of instantaneous particle image velocimetry flow field and thermochromic liquid-crystal-based endwall heat transfer data. The endwall flow is dominated by a horseshoe vortex that forms from reorganized impinging boundary layer vorticity. A relatively small vortex is shown to be a steady feature of the corner region, while a secondary vortex develops sporadically immediately upstream of the horseshoe vortex. The region upstream of the horseshoe vortex is characterized by a bimodal switching of the near-wall reverse flow, which results in quasiperiodic eruptions of the secondary vortex. The bimodal switching of the reverse flow in the vicinity of the secondary vortex is linked to the temporal behavior of the down-wash fluid on the leading edge of the foil. Frequency analysis of the flow field and endwall heat transfer data, taken together, indicate that the eruptive behavior associated with the horseshoe vortex occurs at a frequency that is essentially the same as the measured turbulence bursting period of the impinging turbulent endwall boundary layer.
The Dynamics of the Horseshoe Vortex and Associated Endwall Heat Transfer—Part II: Time-Mean Results
Authors: Praisner T. J. , Smith C. R.
Published: September 2006

Time-mean endwall heat transfer and flow-field data in the endwall region are presented for a turbulent juncture flow formed with a symmetric bluff body. The experimental technique employed allowed the simultaneous recording of instantaneous particle image velocimetry flow field data, and thermochromic liquid-crystal-based endwall heat transfer data. The time-mean flow field on the symmetry plane is characterized by the presence of primary (horseshoe), secondary, tertiary, and corner vortices. On the symmetry plane the time-mean horseshoe vortex displays a bimodal vorticity distribution and a stable-focus streamline topology indicative of vortex stretching. Off the symmetry plane, the horseshoe vortex grows in scale, and ultimately experiences a bursting, or breakdown, upon experiencing an adverse pressure gradient. The time-mean endwall heat transfer is dominated by two bands of high heat transfer, which circumscribe the leading edge of the bluff body. The band of highest heat transfer occurs in the corner region of the juncture, reflecting a 350% increase over the impinging turbulent boundary layer. A secondary high heat-transfer band develops upstream of the primary band, reflecting a 250% heat transfer increase, and is characterized by high levels of fluctuating heat load. The mean upstream position of the horseshoe vortex is coincident with a region of relatively low heat transfer that separates the two bands of high heat transfer.
Overview of Creep Strength and Oxidation of Heat-Resistant Alloy Sheets and Foils for Compact Heat Exchangers
Authors: Maziasz Philip J. , Shingledecker John P. , Pint Bruce A. , Evans Neal D. , Yamamoto Yukinori , More Karren , Lara-Curzio Edgar
Published: September 2006

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has been involved in research and development related to improved performance of recuperators for industrial gas turbines since about 1996, and in improving recuperators for advanced microturbines since 2000. Recuperators are compact, high efficiency heat-exchangers that improve the efficiency of smaller gas turbines and microturbines. Recuperators were traditionally made from 347 stainless steel and operated below or close to 650°C, but today are being designed for reliable operation above 700°C. The Department of Energy (DOE) sponsored programs at ORNL have helped defined the failure mechanisms in stainless steel foils, including creep due to fine grain size, accelerated oxidation due to moisture in the hot exhaust gas, and loss of ductility due to aging. ORNL has also been involved in selecting and characterizing commercial heat-resistant stainless alloys, like HR120 or the new AL20-25+Nb, that should offer dramatically improved recuperator capability and performance at a reasonable cost. This paper summarizes research on sheets and foils of such alloys over the last few years, and suggests the next likely stages for manufacturing recuperators with upgraded performance for the next generation of larger 200-250kW advanced microturbines.
Numerical Optimization of a Vaned Shroud Design for Increased
Operability Margin in Modern Centrifugal Compressors
Authors: Barton M. T. , Mansour M. L. , Liu J. S. , Palmer D. L.
Published: September 2006

This paper describes the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach coupled with an automated grid generation technique utilized for the numerical optimization of a modern centrifugal compressor with an inducer vaned shroud for increased operability margin. The grid generation process was automated to permit rapid optimization of the impeller and vaned shroud geometry. A three-dimensional, viscous, steady flow, mixing-plane approach was utilized to numerically analyze the impeller and vaned shroud in a coupled fashion to capture the interaction effects. The numerical technique verifies the ability of the vane shroud to extend compressor surge margin at the part-speed operating condition, while maintaining acceptable high-speed performance. CFD analyses confirm that the aerodynamics of the vaned shroud match expectation, and are consistent with the mass-averaged compressor speedline characteristics generated from the CFD results.
Defining the Efficiency of a Cooled Turbine
Authors: Young J. B. , Horlock J. H.
Published: September 2006

Despite 40 years development of gas turbine cooling technology, there is no general agreement on the most appropriate definition of cooled turbine efficiency; the critical issue is the choice of a hypothetical “ideal” process. This paper reviews the definitions in use and presents new proposals for overcoming the problems. Attention is first focused on a stationary cooled cascade, and it is shown that the commonly used Hartsel efficiency definition (where the gas and coolant streams expand separately in the ideal process) is unsatisfactory. Three “mixed” efficiencies, referred to as the MP (mainstream-pressure), FR (fully reversible), and WP (weighted-pressure) efficiencies are then discussed. The MP ideal process involves mixing of the coolant and the mainstream to give an unchanged mainstream pressure before expansion. This definition, although sometimes used, is unsatisfactory because the efficiency is independent of the coolant supply pressures. The FR and WP efficiencies have not appeared in the literature previously. The FR efficiency is based on a fully reversible ideal process and has the soundest thermodynamic foundation. It is equivalent to a suitably defined rational efficiency and can be directly related to the various cooling losses. However, as it gives a significantly lower value than the Hartsell and MP definitions, it may not appeal to turbine manufacturers. The WP definition is a pragmatic alternative. In the WP ideal process the entropy increase associated with temperature equilibration of the mainstream and coolant flows is allowed in the mixing before expansion. All three mixed efficiencies can be applied to turbine stages with multiple coolant streams. Turbine manufacturers are urged to reconsider their current procedures with a view to standardizing on a thermodynamically sound definition of efficiency.