bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loan Loss Provisions by Banks in Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore
Authors: Eng Li Li , Nabar Sandeep
Published: January 2007

This paper studies loan loss disclosures by banks in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore for the period 1993 through 2000. We find that unexpected loan loss provisions are positively related to bank stock returns and future cash flows. This indicates that Asian bank managers increase loan loss provisions to signal favorable cash flow prospects, and bank investors bid bank stock prices up when unexpected provisions are positive. These results are consistent with those obtained by Wahlen (1994) for US banks. We also examine the impact of the Asian financial crisis of 1997 on the loan loss variables. The results indicate that the association between the unexpected loan loss provisions and bank stock returns and future cash flows was significantly lower in the crisis years, relative to the non‐crisis period. Evidently, discretionary loan loss provisions had no signaling value during the crisis. This suggests that macroeconomic uncertainty influenced the strategic behavior of Asian bank managers and investors.
A comparison of direct vs. self‐report measures for assessing height, weight and body mass index: a systematic review
Authors: Gorber S. Connor , Tremblay M. , Moher D. , Gorber B.
Published: January 2007

Obesity is a rapidly increasing public health problem, with surveillance most often based on self‐reported values of height and weight. We conducted a systematic review to determine what empirical evidence exists regarding the agreement between objective (measured) and subjective (reported) measures in assessing height, weight and body mass index (BMI). Five electronic databases were searched to identify observational and experimental studies on adult populations over the age of 18. Searching identified 64 citations that met the eligibility criteria and examined the relationship between self‐reported and directly measured height or weight. Overall, the data show trends of under‐reporting for weight and BMI and over‐reporting for height, although the degree of the trend varies for men and women and the characteristics of the population being examined. Standard deviations were large indicating that there is a great deal of individual variability in reporting of results. Combining the results quantitatively was not possible because of the poor reporting of outcomes of interest. Accurate estimation of these variables is important as data from population studies such as those included in this review are often used to generate regional and national estimates of overweight and obesity and are in turn used by decision makers to allocate resources and set priorities in health.
Polymorphisms in adiponectin receptor genes ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2 and insulin resistance
Authors: Crimmins N. A. , Martin L. J.
Published: January 2007

Adiponectin plays an important role in insulin sensitivity via adiponectin receptor 1 and 2 signalling. To date, six genetic association studies have examined the role of polymorphisms in the adiponectin receptor 1 and 2 genes (ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2) in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. These studies are summarized in this review along with unpublished data from the authors. In addition, these polymorphism studies are used to illustrate some of the potential pitfalls and reasons for poor reproducibility of findings in genetic association studies.
ANATOLIA AND THE BALKANS, ONCE AGAIN – RING‐SHAPED IDOLS FROM WESTERN ASIA AND A CRITICAL REASSESSMENT OF SOME ‘EARLY BRONZE AGE’ ITEMS FROM İKİZTEPE, TURKEY
Authors: ZIMMERMANN THOMAS
Published: January 2007

Summary.  The ring‐shaped idol pendant, a distinctive type of Chalcolithic ritual (?) jewellery, is discussed with regard to its chronology in the Balkans in light of its occasional appearance in Asia Minor. Known from domestic contexts, funerals and hoards (?), none of the so far documented Anatolian pendants (clearly another aspect testifying to the well‐known Anatolian–Balkan connections in the fourth millennium BC) can be dated later than the Late Chalcolithic/Early Bronze Age I. This fact provides further evidence for the developing hypothesis that certain inventories from İkiztepe, the only prehistoric reference site on the Turkish Black Sea coast excavated on a large scale, need some profound chronological redating. Selected features and levels dated to ‘Early Bronze Age II–III’ at İkiztepe seem to be several centuries older than currently believed, which has implications for the overall chronological range of these pendants.
PERCEIVING COMMUNITIES: EXCHANGE, LANDSCAPES AND SOCIAL NETWORKS IN THE LATER IRON AGE OF WESTERN BRITAIN
Authors: MOORE TOM
Published: January 2007

Summary.  In recent years British Iron Age studies have focused on regionality whilst critiquing the hierarchical model of Iron Age society. Despite the success of these approaches there has been little detailed replacement of previous social models with an understanding of how Iron Age societies worked. Looking at the later Iron Age of western Britain this paper combines examination of the exchange of material culture alongside study of the landscape to explore the nature of Iron Age communities. It is argued that Iron Age societies in the region used material culture to construct and maintain social relationships, while using visual landscape references allowed groups to engage in larger perceived communities.
RANDOM ORIENTATION OF ROMAN CAMPS
Authors: PETERSON J.W.M.
Published: January 2007

Summary.  An article on the orientation of Roman camps and forts, published in this journal, based its conclusions on faulty statistical analysis. Its only verifiable claim is that the surveyors of Roman camps seem to have preferred orientations within ten degrees of the meridian. Its other claims are not supported. The supposed anomalies of orientation do not need to be explained.
Fixed versus Flexible Exchange Rates: Evidence from Developing Countries
Authors: HOFFMANN MATHIAS
Published: January 2007

This paper investigates the hypothesis that in a small open economy flexible exchange rates act as a ‘shock absorber’ and mitigate the effects of external shocks more effectively than fixed exchange rate regimes. Using a sample of 42 developing countries, the paper assesses whether the responses of real GDP, the trade balance and the real exchange rate to world output and world real interest rate shocks differ across exchange rate regimes. The paper shows that there are significant differences in the variability of macroeconomic aggregates under fixed and flexible exchange rate regimes.
Is it Fair to ‘Make Work Pay’?
Authors: LUTTENS ROLAND IWAN , OOGHE ERWIN
Published: January 2007

We present a new fair allocation, coined a ‘Pareto‐efficient and Shared Resources Equivalent’ allocation, which compensates for different productive skills, but not for different tastes for working. We illustrate the optimal second‐best allocation in a discrete Stiglitz economy. The question of whether we should have regressive or progressive taxes for low earners crucially depends on whether the low‐skilled have a strictly positive skill or zero skill. Our simulation results suggest that ‘making work pay’ policies can be optimal, according to our fairness criterion, but only in the unreasonable case in which all the unemployed are never willing to work.
Typical Cluster Headache Caused by Granulomatous Pituitary Involvement
Authors: Favier I , Haan J , Duinen SG van , Ferrari MD
Published: January 2007

A young woman had typical cluster headache attacks and a pituitary mass lesion. The headache attacks resolved after transsphenoidal resection of the tumour, which was diagnosed as a granulomatous inflammation. The association between cluster headache and granulomatous enlargement of the pituitary gland has never been described before. This case reinforces the growing evidence that even in typical cases of cluster headache, neuroimaging is mandatory to exclude structural lesions.
A test of the efficacy of whole‐genome amplification on DNA obtained from low‐yield samples
Authors: GUNN MELISSA R. , HARTNUP KATIE , BOUTIN STAN , SLATE JON , COLTMAN DAVID W.
Published: January 2007

Conservation and population genetic studies are sometimes hampered by insufficient quantities of high quality DNA. One potential way to overcome this problem is through the use of whole genome amplification (WGA) kits. We performed rolling circle WGA on DNA obtained from matched hair and tissue samples of North American red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). Following polymerase chain reaction (PCR) at four microsatellite loci, we compared genotyping success for DNA from different source tissues, both pre‐ and post‐WGA. Genotypes obtained with tissue were robust, whether or not DNA had been subjected to WGA. DNA extracted from hair produced results that were largely concordant with matched tissue samples, although amplification success was reduced and some allelic dropout was observed. WGA of hair samples resulted in a low genotyping success rate and an unacceptably high rate of allelic dropout and genotyping error. The problem was not rectified by conducting PCR of WGA hair samples in triplicate. Therefore, we conclude that WGA is only an effective method of enhancing template DNA quantity when the initial sample is from high‐yield material.
Renal hemodynamic and diuretic effects of low‐dosage dopamine in anesthetized cats
Authors: Wohl James S. , Schwartz Dean D. , Flournoy W. Shannon , Clark Terrence P. , Wright James C.
Published: January 2007

Objective:To evaluate the effects of low‐dosage (3 μg/kg/min) dopamine on urine output, renal blood flow, creatinine clearance, sodium excretion, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in healthy anesthetized cats.

Design:Controlled experimental study.

Setting:University experimental laboratory.

Animals:Twelve random‐bred 2–4‐year‐old cats.

Interventions:Anesthesia, laparotomy for renal artery blood flow measurement, and arterial and venous catheterization.

Measurements:Heart rate (HR), MAP, renal blood flow, urine output, sodium excretion, fractional sodium excretion, and creatinine clearance.

Main results:No significant difference in urine output, sodium excretion, HR, or creatinine clearance occurred in cats receiving low‐dosage dopamine. A transient decrease in the mean arterial blood pressure occurred in cats receiving dopamine.

Conclusions:Low‐dosage dopamine cannot be expected to induce diuresis in healthy cats. Low‐dosage dopamine may cause vasodilation in non‐renal vascular beds.
Suspected relative adrenal insufficiency in a critically ill cat
Authors: Durkan Samuel , De Laforcade Armelle , Rozanski Elizabeth , Rush John E.
Published: January 2007

Objective:To describe a case of likely relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI) in a cat with critical illness.

Case summary:A cat recovering from polytrauma developed hypotension unresponsive to intravenous fluid support and vasopressor therapy. An adrenocorticotropin hormone stimulation test documented insufficient adrenal function. Treatment with exogenous low‐dose glucocorticoids in addition to standard therapies resulted in rapid hemodynamic and clinical improvement. The cat ultimately recovered and was weaned from supplemental glucocorticoids.

New or unique information provided:This is the first report of changes consistent with acquired RAI in a cat with critical illness.
Pyometra with inguinal herniation of the left uterine horn and omentum in a Beagle dog
Authors: Byers Christopher G. , Williams Jarod E. , Saylor David K.
Published: January 2007

Objective: To describe a unique case of pyometra with inguinal herniation of the left uterine horn and omentum.

Case summary: A 7‐year‐old, 19 kg, intact female Beagle dog presented for surgical treatment of presumptive pyometra and biopsy of a caudal abdominal mass in the left inguinal mammary gland region. Ventral midline celiotomy was performed, and a distended, fluid‐filled uterus with passage of the distal aspect of the left uterine horn through the left vaginal process into the inguinal canal was identified. The patient recovered uneventfully following ovariohysterectomy and left inguinal herniorrhaphy.

New or unique information provided: This is the first documented report of inguinal herniation of a uterine horn associated with a pyometra.
A rodenticide exposed and bleeding Beagle dog with hereditary factor VII deficiency
Authors: Daly Meredith L. , Giger Urs
Published: January 2007

Objective: To report a complex presentation of an acquired and hereditary coagulopathy in a dog.

Case summary: A 5‐year‐old spayed female Beagle presented for lethargy, anorexia, cough, and stiff gait, and was diagnosed with a spontaneous hemothorax. The patient recovered from this bleeding episode suspected to be secondary to anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication, but was subsequently diagnosed with factor VII (FVII) deficiency, a hereditary coagulopathy. Diagnostic approach and management of FVII deficiency is described.

New or unique information provided: This paper describes an unusual presentation of an inherited hemostatic disorder. Utilization of available screening and diagnostic tools, and appropriate interpretation of test results facilitate identification and management of this inherited coagulopathy.
Phosphorus and phosphate metabolism in veterinary patients
Authors: Schropp Diana M. , Kovacic Jan
Published: January 2007

Objective: To review phosphorus and phosphate metabolism and the importance of phosphate abnormalities in veterinary patients.

Data sources: A review of recent human and veterinary medical literature.

Human data synthesis: There is a significant amount of original research on human patients with phosphate abnormalities. Hypophosphatemia has been studied in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), head trauma, refeeding syndrome, hypothermia and in ventilator patients that fail to wean. Hyperphosphatemia has been studied in patients with renal failure and malignancy. Phosphate levels have also been evaluated for prognostic value in sepsis and acute liver failure.

Veterinary data synthesis: Although animal models were used in early experimental research, fewer studies have been published on the effects of phosphate abnormalities in veterinary patients. Hypophosphatemia has been studied in animals with DKA, with refeeding syndrome and with hyperparathyroidism. Hyperphosphatemia has been studied in animals with renal failure and with secondary hypoparathyroidism.

Conclusion: Phosphorus and phosphate are important in many biological functions. This paper is a review of their role in normal metabolism and the clinical importance of phosphate imbalances for our emergency and critical care patients.
Creating sacred space: the religious visual culture of the Renaissance Venetian casa*
Authors: Morse Margaret A.
Published: January 2007

Religion and its visible manifestations were fundamental and consistent aspects of the Renaissance household, yet the subject remains largely overlooked in the scholarship on the domestic environment. Based on a variety of contemporary sources for evidence, this article introduces readers to the religious visual culture of the Venetian casa through an examination of its three main components: the sacred objects acquired for the domestic sphere, the ritual settings fashioned through their display and use, and the purposes that this visible piety served for the familial audience. Holy domestic articles – which consisted of a wide variety of goods, including painting, sculpture, and decorative arts – fostered devotion within the interior setting, while serving important roles as protective devices, as aids for religious development, and as outward expressions of the family's devoutness and honorable reputation. Additionally, while located within a ‘private’ setting, religious objects from domestic spaces connected individuals and families to Venice's wider community of Christian devotion and were intimately tied to the Republic's mercantile way of life.
Therapeutic management of recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation
Authors: Teixeira Rosângela , Godinho Menezes Érica , Schiano Thomas D.
Published: January 2007

Recurrent hepatitis C ranges from minimal damage to cirrhosis developing in a few months or years in a substantial proportion of transplant recipients. Different virus, host and donor factors are involved in the pathogenesis of recurrence, but many are poorly understood. Therapeutic strategies can be utilized in the pre‐, peri‐ or posttransplantation setting. Antiviral therapy using interferon and ribavirin and modifying immunosuppression are the main strategies to prevent progression disease. The efficacy of interferon and ribavirin is limited and side effects, reduction/withdrawal are frequent. Current sustained virological response rates are approximately 28%. An optimal immunosupppression regimen has not been established. The choice of calcineurin inhibitors has not clearly been shown to affect histological hepatitis C virus (HCV) but higher cumulative exposure to corticosteroids to treat acute rejection is associated with more severe recurrence. The manner in which the doses of immunosuppression are modified has more influence on HCV recurrence than the use of a specific drug per se. Debate about the influence of immunosuppressive regimens on HCV recurrence is ongoing. Potential antifibrotic therapy and new agents targeting HCV infection and replication are emerging and are anticipated to be added to our armentarium in battling recurrent HCV post‐LT.
MELD score to predict outcome in adult patients with non‐acetaminophen‐induced acute liver failure
Authors: Katoonizadeh Aezam , Decaestecker Jochen , Wilmer Alexander , Aerts Raymond , Verslype Chris , Vansteenbergen Werner , Yap Paul , Fevery Johan , Roskams Tania , Pirenne Jacques , Nevens Frederik
Published: January 2007

Aims/Background: A model for end stage liver disease (MELD) score >30 was proposed as an excellent predictor of mortality in patients with non‐acetaminophen‐induced acute liver failure (ALF). We analyzed the prognostic value of MELD score in our patients with ALF who were prospectively registered in our database since 1990.

Methods: Overall, 106 patients met the criteria of ALF. Excluding seven patients with acetaminophen etiology, 99 patients (42±15 years, 40M/59F) were studied.

Results: Causes were cryptogenic (n=38), viral (n=29), drugs (n=20) and miscellaneous (n=12). Of these, 37% (n=37) survived with medical management alone (group I), 16% (n=16) died (group II) and 46% (n=46) underwent liver transplantation (group III). The strongest predictors of poor outcome were advanced encephalopathy, cryptogenic/drug‐induced/hepatitis B etiology and a high MELD score. At the time of diagnosis, King's College Hospital criteria and MELD score >30 had similar high negative predictive value (92% and 91%, respectively) and low positive predictive value (52% and 56%, respectively). The predictive values improved only slightly during follow‐up. The best cut‐off point for MELD score to discriminate between survivors and nonsurvivors was >35, with a sensitivity and specificity of 86% and 75%, respectively.

Conclusions: MELD score, which mostly takes into consideration the degree of liver impairment, has a similar prognostic value as King's College Hospital criteria to predict outcome in adult patients with nonacetaminophen‐induced ALF. Overall, all current scores miss accuracy and therefore there is a clear need for factors that can better predict the regeneration of the liver in this setting.
Low‐Dose Aldosterone Blockade as a New Treatment Paradigm for Controlling Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Calhoun David A.
Published: January 2007

Treatment of resistant hypertension requires confirmation of true resistance, diagnosis and treatment of secondary causes of hypertension, adoption of appropriate lifestyle modifications, and effective use of multidrug antihypertensive regimens. Excessive volume retention often underlies resistant hypertension, so diuretics are generally necessary to achieve blood pressure (BP) goals. Although treatment regimens consisting of 3 or more agents have not been systematically evaluated, the author has found a triple regimen consisting of a thiazide diuretic, a calcium channel blocker, and an angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) to be generally effective and well tolerated. Although hydrochlorothiazide is more widely used, chlorthalidone provides better BP reduction and should be preferentially used in patients with resistant hypertension, particularly if the patient remains uncontrolled on hydrochlorothiazide. Recent studies have demonstrated that low doses of aldosterone antagonists, when added to multi‐drug regimens that include a thiazide diuretic and an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker, provide significant additional BP reduction, seemingly exceeding what would be expected with addition of alternative classes of agents. The degree of BP reduction induced by aldosterone blockade has been similar in patients with and without evidence of aldosterone excess. Aldosterone antagonists are generally safe and well tolerated. The most common adverse effect of low‐dose spironolactone has been breast tenderness, occurring in about 10% of men. Hyperkalemia is uncommon, but can occur, necessitating biochemical monitoring. Risk of hyperkalemia is increased in patients with chronic kidney disease or diabetes, elderly patients, and patients already receiving an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring as an Investigative Tool for Characterizing Resistant Hypertension and Its Rational Treatment
Authors: White William B.
Published: January 2007

Ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring has matured into a useful methodology that obtains automated measurements of brachial artery BP during a 24‐hour period. Cardiovascular outcomes in the treated patient with hypertension are often better predicted by ambulatory BP than by office pressures. Consensus guidelines have advocated lower goals of treated office BP in the majority of patients with hypertension; guidelines for the goal of ambulatory BP are needed as well. Recently, prospective cohort studies have shown that individuals whose clinic pressure is relatively normal but whose 24‐hour BP is elevated are more likely to have a cardiovascular event than individuals with both normal clinic BP and ambulatory BP. Along with the knowledge gained from analyses of higher‐risk hypertension patients, recommendations can now be made for how to use ambulatory BP monitoring in clinical practice. For example, ambulatory BP monitoring may be useful in verifying 24‐hour control in high‐risk patients whose office BP appears to be normal at rest or during the peak effect time of their antihypertensive agents. Evidence is mounting from studies that support the use of ambulatory BP monitoring in patients with resistant hypertension at the time of diagnosis and following clinically guided therapy.
Age‐Related Changes in Hemodynamics Affecting Valve Performance
Authors: VanAuker Michael D.
Published: January 2007

Degenerative processes result in changes in both the aortic and mitral valves. For example, degenerative changes may lead to significant aortic stenosis or myxomatous mitral valves. Flows through each valve are determined not only by the properties of the valve itself, but also by the properties of proximal and distal chambers, which also undergo changes with age and diseases associated with the elderly, such as hypertension and coronary artery disease. Assessment of valvular performance should consider the effects of atrial‐ventricular coupling (for the mitral valve) or ventricular‐arterial coupling (for the aortic valve). Design of therapy or intervention should accordingly consider effects on the system as a whole.
Conversion of Bamboo to Biomorphic Composites Containing Silica and Silicon Carbide Nanowires
Authors: Cheung Teresa L. Y. , Ng Dickon H. L.
Published: January 2007

Luk Bamboo had been converted into biomorphic composites containing high‐purity cristobalite‐SiO2 and β‐silicon carbide (SiC) nanowires after sintering at 1200° and 1400°C, respectively. The fabrication process was simple, in which no catalyst was needed and the sintering temperature was low. The procedure included pyrolysis of biotemplates, infiltration of a Si‐containing reactant, and sintering. Both the SiO2 and SiC nanowires were grown by a two‐stage growth mechanism, in which the impurities from raw bamboo acted as catalysts. We successfully demonstrated that inexpensive Luk bamboo could provide a breakthrough, cost‐effective, and eco‐friendly route for self‐assembling one‐dimensional nano‐structures in highly porous biomorphic materials.
Effect of Al Antioxidant on the Rate of Oxidation of Carbon in MgO–C Refractory
Authors: Sadrnezhaad S. K. , Nemati Z. A. , Mahshid S. , Hosseini S. , Hashemi B.
Published: January 2007

Kinetics of air oxidation of MgO–C–Al refractory at 600°–1300°C were investigated using the software based on the modified shrinking core model (KDA). Commercial bricks containing 88.5% MgO, 10% residual carbon, and 1.5% aluminum anti‐oxidant were oxidized isothermally with air. Combination of experimental data with model calculations indicated gas diffusion through solid material and pores as a major controlling step. Previously observed chemisorption process was eliminated from the rate‐controlling mechanism with addition of aluminum antioxidant. Comprehensive rate equations were devised for MgO–C–Al and MgO–C oxidation reactions. Overall activation energies of Qid (internal diffusion)=139.15 kJ/mol at T≤800°C and Qpd (pore diffusion)=25.48 kJ/mol at T>800°C were obtained for MgO–C–Al oxidation reactions. Corresponding values were determined to be Qid=134.85 kJ/mol and Qca (chemical adsorption)=66.69 kJ/mol at T≤800°C and Qpd=18.95 kJ/mol and Qca=66.69 kJ/mol at T>800°C for MgO–C oxidation reactions. Addition of aluminum anti‐oxidant indicated a reducing effect on oxidation of MgO–C bricks at 800°C≤T≤1250°C. Reverse behavior was observed at T≤700°C.
Hierarchical Metal Oxides Assembled by Nanocrystallites Via a Simple Bio‐Inspired Route
Authors: Dong Qun , Su Huilan , Song Fang , Zhang Di , Wang Na
Published: January 2007

A mild and simple bio‐inspired route was successfully developed to synthesize biomorphic metal oxides with hierarchical structures assembled by nanocrystallites. The biomaterials eggshell membrane (ESM) was used as the template in the synthesis process. Based on the directing and capping functions of ESM biomacromolecules for oxide nanocrystallites, the conformation transformation of the natural ESM was achieved to construct 3D interwoven porous ceramic materials. In addition, these building units nanocrystallites exhibited diverse morphologies and had a narrow size distribution with an average crystallite size of 5.4 nm for ZnO, 9.5 nm for Co3O4, and 11 nm for PdO, respectively.
Functionally Gradient and Micro‐Channeled Al2O3–(t‐ZrO2)/HAp Composites
Authors: Lee Byong‐Taek , Kim Ki‐Ho , Youn Hyeong‐Chul , Song Ho‐Yeon
Published: January 2007

Functionally gradient and micro‐channeled Al2O3–(t‐ZrO2)/HAp composites were fabricated using the multi‐pass extrusion process depending on the sintering temperature. The continuous pores were homogeneously formed in the second‐passed samples and their size was about 180 μm in diameter. The functionally gradient Al2O3–(t‐ZrO2)/HAp composites consisted of three layers, i.e., HAp/HAp–Al2O3–ZrO2/Al2O3–ZrO2. The relative density and bending strength increased as the sintering temperature increased and in the sample sintered at 1400°C, their maximum values were about 62.2% and 107.8 MPa, respectively.
Low‐Temperature Sintering of Lead Zinc Niobate–Lead Zirconate Titanate Ceramics Using Nano‐Sized Powder Prepared by the Stirred Media Milling Process
Authors: Choi Jong‐Jin , Hahn Byung‐Dong , Park Dong‐Soo , Yoon Woon‐Ha , Lee Joo‐Hee , Jang Joo‐Hee , Ko Kwan‐Ho , Park Chan
Published: January 2007

Lead zinc niobate–lead zirconate titanate (PZN–PZT) nano‐sized powders with a diameter of ∼35 nm were fabricated by a high‐energy stirred media mill using 50 μm diameter zirconia beads as the milling media at a rotation speed of 4000 rpm for 1 h. The sintering temperature of PZN–PZT was greatly reduced, and a fully densified bulk body was obtained at only 750°C when stirred media milled nanopowder was used. The control of evaporation of lead oxide was very important to obtain high electrical properties due to the increased surface area of nano‐sized powders. The ferroelectric hysteresis, piezoelectric d33 coefficient, and dielectric properties of sintered ceramics using nanopowder were measured and compared with the values obtained from a sintered specimen using conventional milled powders. Remanent polarization, d33 coefficient, and relative dielectric constant of 750°C sintered stirred media milled powders containing 2% of excess PbO and 1% of 4PbO–B2O3 liquid phase were 10.3 μC/cm2, 277 pC/N, and 1310, respectively.
Oriented Nanofibers by a Newly Modified Electrospinning Method
Authors: Wu Hui , Lin Dandan , Zhang Rui , Pan Wei
Published: January 2007

Highly oriented zinc oxide nanofibers with a length of several centimeters are fabricated using a newly modified electrospinning method. Very different from the conventional electrospinning process, the fibers are collected between the electrodes. The key to success is the reduction of interelectrode distance and the use of an ultra strong electric field, which is about six times higher than conventional conditions.
Microwave Dielectric Properties of A6B5O18‐Type Perovskites
Authors: Santha Narayana Iyer , Sebastian Mailadil Thomas
Published: January 2007

Cation‐deficient perovskites with the general formula A6B5O18 (A=Ba, Sr, La; B=Nb, Ta, Ti, Zr, Mg, and Zn) have been synthesized and their microwave dielectric properties have been investigated. X‐ray diffraction studies indicate the formation of monophase materials. The structures of Ba6Ta4TiO18 and Ba5SrTa4TiO18 are different from that of Sr6Ta4TiO18. The A6B5O18 have Q×f in the range 5600–51 000 GHz, dielectric constants 26–48, and the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency varies from −39 to +83 ppm/°C, depending on the composition. Scanning electron microscopy studies show that the grain size decreases with an increase in the Sr content.
Visible Transparent GeSe2–Ga2Se3–KX (X=I, Br, or Cl) Glasses for Infrared Optics
Authors: Yang Zhiyong , Tang Gao , Luo Lan , Chen Wei
Published: January 2007

GeSe2–Ga2Se3–KX (X=I, Br, or Cl) chalcohalide glasses are synthesized, and their optical properties and thermo‐mechanical properties are investigated. A structural model is put forward to elucidate the interesting compositional dependences of the short‐wavelength absorption edge (λs) and glass transition temperature (Tg). These glasses are transparent in the red‐light region in addition to the 3–5 and 8–14 μm atmospheric windows. Most of theirTgexceed 300°C, and they also present good thermal stability. These properties make them attractive materials for infrared optics.
C–S–H (I)—A Nanostructural Model for the Removal of Water from Hydrated Cement Paste?
Authors: Alizadeh Rouhollah , Beaudoin James Joseph , Raki Laila
Published: January 2007

Helium gas is used as a nanostructural probe to investigate the structural changes in C–S–H (I) due to the removal of interlayer water. Changes in the 002 basal spacing are correlated with helium inflow characteristics. Similarities to helium inflow experiments conducted on hydrated Portland cement and C3S pastes are discussed. Conclusions are drawn with respect to the viability of considering C–S–H (I) as a physical model for the drying of Portland cement and C3S pastes.
Metabolic Derangements in the Insulin‐Resistant Heart
Authors: Govindarajan Gurushankar , Hayden Melvin R. , Cooper Shawna A. , Figueroa Said Daibes , Ma Lixin , Hoffman Timothy J. , Stump Craig S. , Sowers James R.
Published: January 2007

Myocardium is flexible when it comes to energy substrate utilization; it uses fatty acid, glucose, lactones, and ketones for its energy requirement. The myocardial energy substrate preference varies in a dynamic manner depending on myocardial perfusion, energy demand, substrate availability, and local/systemic hormonal changes. The authors discuss the metabolic perturbations seen in insulin‐resistant myocardium and how they result in structural and other biochemical changes that ultimately result in left ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic and systolic dysfunction. The authors also discuss the utility of metabolic imaging to study metabolic derangement as seen in insulin‐resistant rodents. The role of positron emission tomography and cine‐magnetic resonance imaging coregistration in quantifying myocardial glucose uptake is demonstrated in fasted, 13‐week old Sprague‐Dawley rats under insulin‐/glucose‐stimulated conditions. This study demonstrates the utility of in vivo, noninvasive positron emission tomography and cine‐magnetic resonance imaging modalities to longitudinally follow insulin resistance models during disease progression and after specific interventions.
The multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) in the pig
Authors: Voss Kyhn Maria , Kiilgaard Jens F. , Lopez Ana Garcia , Scherfig Erik , Prause Jan U. , La Cour Morten
Published: January 2007

Purpose:  To establish a method allowing multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) recording with simultaneous fundus monitoring on anaesthetized pigs. In addition we characterize the peaks of the porcine mfERG trace, and compare the visual streak area with the optic nerve head, a known non‐response area. Finally we illustrate the feasibility of the method by performing mfERG after an induced laser burn in the visual streak.

Methods:  Fifteen pigs underwent mfERG recordings at baseline, and after 1 and 6 weeks of observation. One pig was evaluated before and after retinal diode laser treatment in the visual streak.

Results:  The porcine mfERG trace appears similar to the human mfERG trace, and can be described by three peaks named N1, P1 and N2. Significantly faster implicit time was found in the visual streak regarding N1 (P < 0.001) than in areas outside the visual streak. Amplitudes of all three peaks were increased in the visual streak (P < 0.005). The laser‐treated area was characterized by a response similar to what is found at the location of the optic nerve head.

Conclusion:  Porcine mfERG is similar in appearance to the human response and can be described by the same three peaks. Significantly higher amplitudes of all three peaks are found in the visual streak when compared to the optic nerve head and inferior retina. We have detected the functional deficit caused by a laser burn at the size of 3 × 3 mm.
Eosinophilic folliculitis following allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation: case report and review
Authors: Goiriz Rebeca , Guhl‐Millán Guillermo , Peñas Pablo F , Fernández‐Herrera Jesús , Daudén Esteban , Fraga Javier , García‐Diez Amaro
Published: January 2007

Eosinophilic folliculitis is considered a heterogeneous group of disorders, with several clinical subsets, sharing a common histopathological appearance. Increasing numbers of cases, following bone marrow transplantation (BMT), have been reported in recent years. We herein present a case of eosinophilic folliculitis that appeared in a 26‐year‐old woman 5 months after allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation as treatment for eosinophilic acute leukemia. Our review of the published cases has shown that eosinophilic folliculitis in patients after BMT could be considered as a pattern of reaction related to immune dysregulation.
Alopecia syphilitica with detection of Treponema pallidum in the hair follicle
Authors: Nam‐Cha Syong Hyun , Guhl Guillermo , Fernández‐Peña Pablo , Fraga Javier
Published: January 2007

Alopecia is one of the clinical manifestations of secondary syphilis. It is uncommon for hair loss to be the sole or predominant manifestation, as hair loss is the chief clinical and histologic differential diagnosis of alopecia areata. The main difference between these two entities is the detection of Treponema pallidum in syphilis. We present the case of a 24‐year‐old Hispanic man, human immunodeficiency virus seropositive in treatment, with tiny patches of non‐cicatricial alopecia in the parieto‐occipital regions of his scalp. The patient denied previous history of genital or other skin lesions. A biopsy from an alopecic patch was performed which showed an inflammatory non‐scarring alopecia with a discrete lymphocytic type inflammatory infiltrate localized in the peribulbar region. There was lymphocyte exocytosis into the matrix, associated with vacuolar degeneration, and scattered apoptotic cells were observed. Plasma cells were scattered. Immunohistochemical studies showed the presence of T. pallidum limited to the peribulbar region and penetrating into the follicle matrix. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that spirochetes have been shown in the hair follicle in alopecia syphilitica, suggesting that the spirochetes may be pathogenetic and responsible for the alopecia.
Lupus‐like reaction to interferon at the injection site: report of five cases
Authors: Arrue Itziar , Saiz Ana , Ortiz‐Romero Pablo Luis , Rodríguez‐Peralto José Luis
Published: January 2007

Background:  Interferon therapy at the injection sites has been related to different cutaneous lesions including erythema and induration as the most frequent ones. While the glycoprotein induces fatigue, fever and is even believed to precipitate autoimmune disorders such as type I diabetes, thyroid disease and systemic lupus erythematosus, a lupus erythematosus‐like histologic reaction at the interferon injection site has never been reported. To our knowledge, a microscopic self‐resolving lesion mimicking lupus erythematosus at the injection site of interferon has not been described.

Results:  We report five cases of cutaneous lesions at the inoculation site of interferon with a histopathologic lupus erythematosus‐like pattern. Three of them were receiving interferon alfa therapy because of a malignant melanoma and the other two patients were receiving interferon beta‐1b for multiple sclerosis. Biopsy specimens taken from different lesions showed similar microscopic findings consisting of dermal mucin deposits and dense lymphocytic infiltrates along hair follicles with hydropic degeneration of follicular basal layer.

Conclusions:  Multiple cutaneous lesions related to interferon at the injection site have been reported, but none of them with a histologic lupus‐like presentation. In this study we describe five cases in which interferon therapy has induced a resolutive cutaneous lesion mimicking lupus erythematous. This peculiar microscopic pattern has been previously described once before, but interpreted as cutaneous mucinosis.
Tuberculids as sentinel lesions of tuberculous epididymo‐orchitis
Authors: Ramdial Pratistadevi K. , Calonje Eduardo , Sydney Clive , Subrayen Sumeshini , Meyiwa Phumlani S. , Aboobaker Jamila
Published: January 2007

Background:  Tuberculids are rarely associated with male genital tract tuberculosis (TB). Tuberculous epididymo‐orchitis (TBEO) has been associated rarely with papulonecrotic tuberculid (PNT) but not with erythema induratum (EI) or the simultaneous occurrence of different tuberculids.

Methods:  A retrospective assessment of tuberculids that occurred with underlying TBEO was carried out.

Results:  Five patients, four with one and one with two skin biopsies, with clinical diagnoses of PNT (two), EI (one), impetigo (two) and calf ulcer (one), formed the study cohort. Histopathological evaluation confirmed PNT and EI in four and two skin biopsies, respectively. Two patients who returned for follow‐up were commenced on anti‐tuberculous therapy. All patients sought medical attention 3–34 months later for tender right‐sided (two) and left‐sided (three) testicular masses. Orchidectomy was undertaken following a poor clinical response to empirical treatment with trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole. Pathological examination of the testis and epididymis confirmed TBEO. The patients were initiated on anti‐tuberculous therapy. There was dramatic healing of the skin lesions.

Conclusion:  Tuberculids are a sentinel cutaneous manifestation of visceral TB and a valuable external audit of treatment compliance and response. Heightened recognition of and more rigorous genitourinary tract investigation are necessary to identify occult or asymptomatic TBEO as the underlying cause of tuberculids.
Basaloid folliculolymphoid hyperplasia: a distinctive finding in follicular mycosis fungoides
Authors: Gerami Pedram , Guitart Joan
Published: January 2007

Follicular mycosis fungoides is an increasingly recognized subtype of mycosis fungoides. There is great variability in the clinical and histologic presentation of this variant of mycosis fungoides. Epithelial hyperplasia may occur in cutaneous lymphomas, and basaloid induction of the epidermis is a recognized phenomenon in cutaneous neoplasms. We have identified three patients with follicular mycosis fungoides with basaloid folliculolymphoid hyperplasia, a finding that has received little attention in the literature. The patients were all men with prominent follicular papules on the face. We believe that these changes are a distinctive histologic pattern of follicular mycosis fungoides. Hence, we describe the clinical‐pathologic findings of basaloid folliculolymphoid hyperplasia in these three patients with follicular mycosis fungoides.
Programmed aortic dysfunction and reduced Na+,K+‐ATPase activity present in first generation offspring of lard‐fed rats does not persist to the second generation
Authors: Armitage James A. , Ishibashi Asuka , Balachandran Aswini A. , Jensen Runa I. , Poston Lucilla , Taylor Paul D.
Published: January 2007

We have previously reported that male and female offspring of Sprague–Dawley rats fed a diet rich (approximately 50% of caloric intake from fat) in animal fat (lard) during pregnancy and suckling (OHF) demonstrate cardiovascular dysfunction, including blunted endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation in the aorta as well as reduced renal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity. Cardiovascular dysfunction has been reported in other models of developmental programming and some researchers describe transmission from F1 to F2 generations. Here we report a study of vascular function, as assessed in isolated rings of aorta mounted in an organ bath, and renal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity in 6‐month‐old male and female F2 offspring of lard‐fed and control‐fed (OC) dams (n= 13 per diet group). An increase in brain (OC 0.61 ± 0.01%versus OHF 0.66 ± 0.02% of bodyweight) and kidney weights (OC 0.32 ± 0.01%versus OHF 0.37 ± 0.01% of bodyweight) was observed in female F2 offspring of lard‐fed dams compared with F2 controls (P < 0.03). Constrictor responses to phenylephrine in the aorta were not different from F2 controls (repeated measures ANOVA, P= 0.85). Also, endothelium‐dependent dilator function, as assessed by responses to acetylcholine (repeated measures ANOVA, P= 0.96) and passive distensibility in the absence of extracellular calcium (repeated measures ANOVA, P= 0.68), was similar. Additionally, renal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity was not statistically different from that observed in control animals (ANOVA, P= 0.89). Although a maternal diet rich in animal fat has deleterious effects on parameters of cardiovascular risk in F1 animals, it does not appear that disorders previously reported in the F1 generation are transmitted to the F2 generation.
Relative contributions of rod and cone bipolar cell inputs to AII amacrine cell light responses in the mouse retina
Authors: Pang Ji‐Jie , Abd‐El‐Barr Muhammad M. , Gao Fan , Bramblett Debra E. , Paul David L. , Wu Samuel M.
Published: January 2007

AII amacrine cells (AIIACs) are crucial relay stations for rod‐mediated signals in the mammalian retina and they receive synaptic inputs from depolarizing and hyperpolarizing bipolar cells (DBCs and HBCs) as well as from other amacrine cells. Using whole‐cell voltage‐clamp technique in conjunction with pharmacological tools, we found that the light‐evoked current response of AIIACs in the mouse retina is almost completely mediated by two DBC synaptic inputs: a 6,7‐dinitro‐quinoxaline‐2,3‐dione (DNQX)‐resistant component mediated by cone DBCs (DBCCs) through an electrical synapse, and a DNQX‐sensitive component mediated by rod DBCs (DBCRs). This scheme is supported by AIIAC current responses recorded from two knockout mice. The dynamic range of the AIIAC light response in the Bhlhb4−/− mouse (which lacks DBCRs) resembles that of the DNQX‐resistant component, and that of the connexin36 (Cx36)−/− mouse resembles the DNQX‐sensitive component. By comparing the light responses of the DBCCs with the DNQX‐resistant AIIAC component, and light responses of the DBCRs with the DNQX‐sensitive AIIAC component, we obtained the input–output relations of the DBCC→AIIAC electrical synapse and the DBCR→AIIAC chemical synapse. Similar to other glutamatergic chemical synapses in the retina, the DBCR→AIIAC synapse is non‐linear. Its highest voltage gain (approximately 5) is found near the dark membrane potential, and it saturates for presynaptic signals larger than 5.5 mV. The DBCC→AIIAC electrical synapse is approximately linear (voltage gain of 0.92), consistent with the linear junctional conductance found in retinal electrical synapses. Moreover, relative DBCR and DBCC contributions to the AIIAC response at various light intensity levels are determined.
Inhibitory input from slowly adapting lung stretch receptors to retrotrapezoid nucleus chemoreceptors
Authors: Moreira Thiago S. , Takakura Ana C. , Colombari Eduardo , West Gavin H. , Guyenet Patrice G.
Published: January 2007

The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) contains CO2‐activated interneurons with properties consistent with central respiratory chemoreceptors. These neurons are glutamatergic and express the transcription factor Phox2b. Here we tested whether RTN neurons receive an input from slowly adapting pulmonary stretch receptors (SARs) in halothane‐anaesthetized ventilated rats. In vagotomized rats, RTN neurons were inhibited to a variable extent by stimulating myelinated vagal afferents using the lowest intensity needed to inhibit the phrenic nerve discharge (PND). In rats with intact vagus nerves, RTN neurons were inhibited, also to a variable extent, by increasing positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP; 2–6 cmH2O). The cells most sensitive to PEEP were inhibited during each lung inflation at rest and were instantly activated by stopping ventilation. Muscimol (GABA‐A agonist) injection in or next to the solitary tract at area postrema level desynchronized PND from ventilation, eliminated the lung inflation‐synchronous inhibition of RTN neurons and their steady inhibition by PEEP but did not change their CO2 sensitivity. Muscimol injection into the rostral ventral respiratory group eliminated PND but did not change RTN neuron response to either lung inflation, PEEP increases, vagal stimulation or CO2. Generalized glutamate receptor blockade with intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) kynurenate eliminated PND and the response of RTN neurons to lung inflation but did not change their CO2 sensitivity. PEEP‐sensitive RTN neurons expressed Phox2b. In conclusion, RTN chemoreceptors receive an inhibitory input from myelinated lung stretch receptors, presumably SARs. The lung input to RTN may be di‐synaptic with inhibitory pump cells as sole interneurons.