bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stochastic Watershed Water Quality Simulation for TMDL Development – A Case Study in the Newport Bay Watershed1
Authors: Zheng Yi , Keller Arturo A.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Systematic consideration of uncertainty in data, model structure, and other factors is generally unaddressed in most Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) calculations. Our previous studies developed the Management Objectives Constrained Analysis of Uncertainty (MOCAU) approach as an uncertainty analysis technique specifically for watershed water quality models, based on a synthetic case. In this study, we applied MOCAU to analyze diazinon loading in the Newport Bay watershed (Southern California). The study objectives included (1) demonstrating the value of performing stochastic simulation and uncertainty analysis for TMDL development, using MOCAU as the technique and (2) evaluating the existing diazinon TMDL and generating insights for the development of scientifically sound TMDLs, considering uncertainty. The Watershed Analysis Risk Management Framework model was used as an example of a complex watershed model. The study revealed the importance and feasibility of conducting stochastic watershed water quality simulation for TMDL development. The critical role of management objectives in a systematic uncertainty assessment was well demonstrated. The results of this study are intuitive to TMDL calculation, model structure improvement and sampling strategy design.
Hydrologic Calibration and Validation of SWAT in a Snow‐Dominated Rocky Mountain Watershed, Montana, U.S.A.1
Authors: Ahl Robert S. , Woods Scott W. , Zuuring Hans R.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) has been applied successfully in temperate environments but little is known about its performance in the snow‐dominated, forested, mountainous watersheds that provide much of the water supply in western North America. To address this knowledge gap, we configured SWAT to simulate the streamflow of Tenderfoot Creek (TCSWAT). Located in central Montana, TCSWAT represents a high‐elevation watershed with ∼85% coniferous forest cover where more than 70% of the annual precipitation falls as snow, and runoff comes primarily from spring snowmelt. Model calibration using four years of measured daily streamflow, temperature, and precipitation data resulted in a relative error (RE) of 2% for annual water yield estimates, and mean paired deviations (Dv) of 36 and 31% and Nash‐Sutcliffe (NS) efficiencies of 0.90 and 0.86 for monthly and daily streamflow, respectively. Model validation was conducted using an additional four years of data and the performance was similar to the calibration period, with RE of 4% for annual water yields, Dv of 43% and 32%, and NS efficiencies of 0.90 and 0.76 for monthly and daily streamflow, respectively. An objective, regression‐based model invalidation procedure also indicated that the model was validated for the overall simulation period. Seasonally, SWAT performed well during the spring and early summer snowmelt runoff period, but was a poor predictor of late summer and winter base flow. The calibrated model was most sensitive to snowmelt parameters, followed in decreasing order of influence by the surface runoff lag, ground water, soil, and SCS Curve Number parameter sets. Model sensitivity to the surface runoff lag parameter reflected the influence of frozen soils on runoff processes. Results indicated that SWAT can provide reasonable predictions of annual, monthly, and daily streamflow from forested montane watersheds, but further model refinements could improve representation of snowmelt runoff processes and performance during the base flow period in this environment.
Differences in Dissolved Organic Carbon and Nitrogen Responses to Storm‐Event and Ground‐Water Conditions in a Forested, Glaciated Watershed in Western New York1
Authors: Inamdar Shreeram , Rupp Julia , Mitchell Myron
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Differences in the storm‐event responses of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nitrogen (DON) in streamflow and ground water were evaluated for a glaciated forested watershed in western New York. Eight to ten storm events with varying rainfall amounts, intensities, and antecedent moisture conditions were studied for three catchments (1.6, 3.4, and 696 ha) over a three‐year period (2003‐2005). Concentrations of DOC in streamflow exiting the catchments were significantly higher for storm events following a dry period, whereas no similar response was observed for DON. Highest DON concentrations in streamflow were typically associated with storm events following wet antecedent moisture conditions. In addition to antecedent moisture conditions, DOC concentrations were also positively correlated with precipitation amounts, while DON did not reveal a consistent pattern. Streamwater and ground‐water concentrations of DOC during storm events were also strongly correlated with riparian ground‐water depths but a similar relationship was not observed for DON. Ground‐water DON concentrations were also more variable than DOC. We hypothesized that the differences in DOC and DON responses stemmed from the differences in catchment sources of these solutes. This study suggests that while DOC and DON are intrinsically linked as components of dissolved organic matter, their dynamics and exports from watersheds may be regulated by a different set of mechanisms and factors. Identifying these differences is critical for developing more reliable and robust models for transport of dissolved organic matter.
Land Use, Geology, Enrichment, and Stream Biota in the Eastern Ridge and Valley Ecoregion: Implications for Nutrient Criteria Development1
Authors: Zheng Lei , Gerritsen Jeroen , Beckman John , Ludwig Jon , Wilkes Sam
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  The eastern panhandle region of West Virginia is entirely within the Appalachian Ridge and Valley ecoregion. It is underlain by limestone in the eastern part and by shale and sandstone in the western part. Agricultural and urban development has affected the condition of the streams of this region. We examined samples from 165 stations in the Ridge and Valley, collected from 1998 to 2004. Land use, geological characteristics, physical and chemical parameters, and algal and macroinvertebrate assemblages were used to identify potential stressors that affect streams in the region. Our analyses indicated that both human land uses and ecoregional differences led to elevated nutrient concentrations in streams of the study areas. Multiple regression analyses indicated that both agricultural and urban land use in the watershed were associated with high nutrient concentrations (NO2+3, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus) in streams. These elevated nutrient concentrations have led to increased algal biomass, increased trophic state, and degradation of macroinvertebrate community in the streams. Values of the West Virginia Stream Condition Index, as well as several other benthic macroinvertebrate metrics, decreased with increased nutrient concentrations and conductivity, especially in the limestone region. When regional differences were partitioned out in the analysis, nutrient concentrations became the strongest stressor in the limestone region while conductivity exhibited less of an effect on macroinvertebrate metrics. Meanwhile, periphyton diagnostic metrics also responded to increased nutrient concentrations, suggesting nutrients could be a cause of biological degradation in the Eastern Ridge and Valley region. Multiple approaches and multiple lines of evidence (reference approach and stressor‐response approach) were applied to develop nutrient benchmarks for different geological regions in the study watershed.
Prediction of Flow-Induced Vibrations in Tubular Heat Exchangers—Part II: Experimental Investigation
Authors: Al-Kaabi S. A. , Khulief Y. A. , Said S. A.
Published: December 2008

It has become evident that the modeling of the complex dynamics of fluidelastic forces that give rise to vibrations of tube bundles requires a great deal of experimental insight. Accordingly, the prediction of the flow-induced vibration due to unsteady cross-flow can be greatly aided by semi-analytical models, in which some coefficients are determined experimentally. A laboratory test rig with an instrumented test bundle is constructed to measure the fluidelastic coefficients to be used in conjunction with the mathematical model derived in Part I of this paper. The test rig admits two different test bundles, namely, the inline-square and 45deg rotated-square tube arrays. Measurements were conducted to identify the flow-induced dynamic coefficients. The developed scheme was utilized in predicting the onset of flow-induced vibrations in two configurations of tube bundles, and results were examined in the light of Tubular Exchange Manufacturers Association (TEMA) predictions. The comparison demonstrated that TEMA guidelines are more conservative in the two configurations considered.
Pipe Wall Damage Detection in Buried Pipes Using Guided Waves
Authors: Ahmad Rais , Banerjee Sourav , Kundu Tribikram
Published: December 2008

It is well known that cylindrical guided waves are very efficient for detecting pipe wall defects when pipes are open in the air. In this paper it is investigated how efficient the guided waves are for detecting pipe wall damage when the pipes are embedded in the soil. For this purpose guided waves were propagated through pipes that were buried in the soil by placing transmitters on one end of the embedded pipe and receivers on the other end. Received signals for both defect-free and defective pipes were recorded. Then the received signals were subjected to wavelet transforms. To investigate whether embedding the pipe in the soil makes it more difficult to detect the pipe wall defects, the same set of defective and defect-free pipes were studied before and after burying them in the soil. In both cases the defective pipes could be easily identified. Interestingly, contrary to the intuition, it was observed that under certain conditions defective pipes could be identified more easily in buried conditions. For example, the difference between the strengths of the initial parts of the received signal from defect-free and dented pipes was found to be greater for the buried pipes. Some qualitative justification for easier detection of buried dented pipes is provided.
Some Formal Aspects of the Theory of Intermolecular Interactions and of the BSSE Problem
Authors: Mayer István
Published: December 2008

Some results of mathematical character concerning the theory of intermolecular interactions and the BSSE problem are presented. It is shown that the concept of complete basis set may be introduced for intermolecular potential surfaces only by considering explicitly the limiting process in which the basis sets of both monomers approach completeness simultaneously. That does not lead to any overcompleteness problem if we do not postulate the existence of two complete basis sets from the outset. The intimate connection between the BSSE and the differences of some biorthogonal integrals and their "original" counterparts is also discussed. The operator of BSSE is given in terms of such differences. It is shown that in a special case, when only the overlap of the occupied orbitals is considered, the "bi-expectation" value of the energy coincides with the conventional expectation value for the single determinant wave function built up of the unperturbed orbitals of the individual monomers. It is discussed, by using a model of the biorthogonal perturbation theory, why the conceptually fully different a priori (CHA) and a posteriori (CP) schemes of BSSE correction usually give very close numerical results. (The necessary biorthogonal perturbation formalism is developed in the Appendices.) The results give justification for the additivity assumptions inherent in the CP method.
Interaction of Gold Atom with Clusters of Water: Few Computational Mise-En-Scènes with Hydrogen Bonding Motif
Authors: Kryachko Eugene S.
Published: December 2008

The present work outlines the fair relationship of the computational model with the experiments on anion photoelectron spectroscopy for the gold-water complexes [Au(H2O)1≤n≤2]- that is established between the auride anion Au- and water monomer and dimer thanks to the nonconventional hydrogen bond where Au- casts as the nonconventional proton acceptor. This work also extends the computational model to the larger complexes [Au(H2O)3≤n≤5]- where gold considerably thwarts the shape of water clusters and even particularly breaks their conventional hydrogen bonding patterns. The fascinating phenomenon of the lavish proton acceptor character of Au- to form at least six hydrogen bonds with molecules of water is computationally unveiled in the present work for the first time.
Photodissociation Pathways of Acetone Upon Excitation Into the 3s Rydberg State: Adiabatic Versus Diabatic Mechanism
Authors: Antol Ivana , Eckert-Maksić Mirjana , Ončák Milan , Slavíček Petr , Lischka Hans
Published: December 2008

Photolysis of acetone upon excitation to the 3s Rydberg excited state has been studied by means of high level ab initio methods. The calculations have been performed on multiconfigurational self consistent field (MCSCF) level with a subsequent addition of dynamical correlation both by perturbation theory (CASPT2) and via a configuration interaction expansion up to double excitations (MR-CISD). In addition to the major photoreaction that is well known Norrish type α-cleavage, the formation of hydrogen and acetonyl (1-methyloxy or 2-oxopropyl) radical has been discussed. The major question addressed is whether the dynamical processes occur adiabatically on the S2 surface or diabatically, with non-adiabatic transitions taking place in the course of the reactions.
BO3 Molecular Structures: Examples of the Importance of Electron Correlation
Authors: Sokolov Alexander Yu. , Stibrich Nathan J. , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: December 2008

In 1991 Burkholder and Andrews reported the spectroscopic identification of the boron- oxygen species BO, BO2, B2O2, B2O3, and BO2-. In addition, they tentatively identified two infrared features due to BO3. In this research, a wide range of possible BO3 structures is considered theoretically. The highest level of theory used involves the CCSD(T) method with an augmented correlation consistent quadruple zeta basis set. A planar structure O-B-O-O is predicted to be the global minimum, lying 4.2 kcal mol-1 below a higher symmetry (C2v) structure incorporating a BO2 isosceles triangle. Reasonable agreement is found between the theoretical vibrational frequencies and the two fundamentals reported by Burkholder and Andrews. The potentially important ozone adduct B-O3 is predicted to lie much higher in energy.
“Sharing the impact of the disease”: a workshop on suffering for medical students
Authors: Lewis W , Hawthorne K
Published: December 2008

Objectives:

To investigate the attitudes of early clinical students to the concept of suffering and the work of Eric Cassell.

Design:

Qualitative case study using group interviews and questionnaires.

Setting:

A United Kingdom medical school.

Participants:

Two whole-year cohorts of third-year medical students (n = 557).

Interventions:

Group interviews involving 57 randomly selected students, with exploration of emergent themes using free text and Lickert scale questionnaires.

Results:

Students engaged readily with the concept of suffering and were able to identify a patient they had encountered who was suffering. Barriers to student involvement with suffering were identified. Students saw engaging with patient suffering as a clinical skill. Many students saw the ideas of Eric Cassell as plausible, although few were convinced that relief of suffering should be the central goal of medicine.

Conclusions:

The work of Eric Cassell formed the basis of a teaching intervention with medical students who identified engaging with suffering as a clinical skill.
Two Georgian fathers: diverse in experience, united in grief
Authors: James R M , Williams A N
Published: December 2008

The history of paediatrics and child health is increasingly recognised to be about children themselves and how they and their families cope and adapt to their medical condition rather than about medical practitioners and august institutions. This article considers two case studies, showing how two Georgian fathers cared for their children when sickness struck and their reactions when the children died. Davies (Giddy) Gilbert, FRS (1767–1840), was a member of Parliament first for Helston and later for Bodmin. (He married Ann Mary Gilbert in 1808 and formally changed his name to Gilbert; the change received royal approbation in January 1817.) Gilbert recorded the birth and development of his son Charles (1810–1813), in one of the very earliest developmental chronicles. He regularly recorded his child’s progress, including height, weight, social interaction, communication skills and speech. Apparently in good health for most of his life, Charles developed an acute abdominal disorder and died unexpectedly. John Tremayne (1780–1851) was a member of Parliament for Cornwall. His son Harry (1814–1823) had increasing bilious attacks, headaches and a squint from the age of 6 years, and died despite the best medical advice available. Current medical opinion would presume an intracranial tumour. Tremayne graphically expressed his pain as he closely observed his son suffer, apparently as much from the treatments as from the disease itself. This study sheds light on clinical aspects of Georgian medical practice, the medical marketplace and the nature of relationships between these fathers and their children.
Brainwashing: the power of the psychiatrist portrayed in 1960s visual media
Authors: Dakin P
Published: December 2008

A comparatively neglected representation of the psychiatrist is that of coercive agent using drugs and behavioural psychology to serve a sinister goal. Rather than treat illness or relieve distress, psychiatrists undermine the mental health of an individual through “brainwashing” techniques, transforming the thoughts and actions of their subjects to devastating effect. Portrayals of psychiatrists as unsympathetic agents of the state or malevolent manipulators were popular in British film and television of the 1960s. Such characterisations are compared with historical experiences of “brainwashing” originating from the Korean War, examining their development and the possible reasons why they resonated so powerfully with contemporary audiences.
The limits of pity inBartlebyandMoby Dick
Authors: Rosenblatt L
Published: December 2008

Failures in the emotional connection between doctors and their patients tend to be reported in terms of compassion fatigue, burn-out, secondary trauma and depression in overlapping and somewhat interchangeable ways. InMoby DickandBartleby, Melville interrogates the culturally accepted descriptions of pity and explores the reasons for the limits in human pity he observed and depicted. In an attempt to understand whether the feelings of pity that a patient's suffering can evoke in physicians are sustainable, desirable, or counter-productive, Melville's narratives, along with that of a woman who, while living with advanced cancer experiences the breakdown of a key medical relationship, will be considered.
Kampo Medicine, Based on Traditional Medicine Theory, in Treating Uncured Glossodynia: Efficacy in Five Clinical Cases
Authors: Hijikata Yasuyo , Makiura Noriko , Kano Takashi , Higasa Kumi , Shimizu Masahiko , Kawata Kayoko , Mine Takashi
Published: December 2008

Glossodynia, or tongue pain, is resistant to conventional therapies. Kampo medicines were evaluated in patients suffering from incurable glossodynia. Patients were diagnosed by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory in order to determine the appropriate herbal prescriptions. Five Japanese females (50–76 years old) with glossodynia refractory to conventional therapy were enrolled in this study. Small portions of Rikkunshito, Jiinkokato, Hachimijiogan and Ryutanshakanto worked for a female diagnosed with "Spleen" and "Heart" Yin deficiency, "Kidney" Yang deficiency and "Liver" Qi stagnation producing heat syndrome. Seishoekkito and Bakumondoto were effective for a patient diagnosed with "Spleen Qi" deficiency and "Stomach" Yin deficiency producing heat syndrome. Rikkunshito, Kamikihito and Chikujountanto worked for a patient diagnosed with "Spleen Qi" and "Heart Yin" deficiency, stagnation of "Liver" Qi producing fire and "Gallbladder" Qi deficiency. Rokumijiogan, Kamishoyosan and Kambakutaisoto were effective for a patient with Yang rise based on Yin deficiency of "Kidney" and "Liver," and restless organ disorder based on Yin deficiency of 5 viscera. A patient diagnosed with "Spleen" Yang deficiency responded to a combination of Anchusan and Hangeshashinto. These patients with glossodynia had resolution of pain within 1 month of treatment. Herbal mixtures containing Ganoderam lucidum, not prescribed based on TCM theory, but effective for herpes virus infection, worked for a female suffering from glossodynia for 1 year after artificial teeth were placed, but required about 5 months to note improvement. Kampo medicines, properly prescribed based on TCM theory, quickly resolved the pain of refractory glossodynia.
Role of Grape Seed Extract on Methotrexate Induced Oxidative Stress in Rat Liver
Authors: Çetin Aysun , Kaynar Leylagul , Kocyigit Ismail , Hacioglu Sibel Kabukcu , Saraymen Recep , Ozturk Ahmet , Sari Ismail , Sagdic Osman
Published: December 2008

The efficacy of methotrexate (MTX), a widely used cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agent, is often limited by its severe hepatotoxicity. Regarding the mechanisms of these adverse effects, several hypotheses have been put forward, among which oxidative stress is noticeable. The present study was undertaken to determine whether grape seed extract (GSE), a new natural free radical scavenger, could ameliorate the MTX-induced oxidative injury in the rat liver. The animals were divided into 3 groups. Each group consisted of 12 animals. MTX-GSE group: rats were given GSE (100mg/kg body weight) orally for 15 days, and a single dose of MTX (20mg/kg, intraperitoneally) was added on the 10th day. MTX group: these received placebo distilled water (orally) instead of GSE for 15 days and the same MTX protocol applied to this group on the 10th day. Control group: rats were given distilled water (orally) through 15 days and physiological saline (intraperitoneally) instead of MTX was administered on the 10th day in a similar manner. On the 16th day, liver tissue samples were obtained under deep anaesthesia. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA), an end product of lipid peroxidation, and the activities of süperoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), two important endogenous antioxidants, were evaluated in the tissue homogenates. MTX administration increased the MDA level and decreased the SOD and CAT activities in the liver homogenates ( p < 0.001), while these alterations were significantly reversed by GSE treatment ( p < 0.001). MTX led to significantly reduced whole blood count parameters ( p < 0.05). When GSE was supplemented, no significant changes in blood count parameters were noted. It appears that GSE protects the rat liver and inhibits methotrexate-induced oxidative stress. These data indicate that GSE may be of therapeutic benefit when used with MTX.
Co-administration of Radix curcumae Alters the Tissue Distribution of Danshensu in Radix salviae miltiorrhiae in Rabbits
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhao Xinfeng , Zhang Li , Fang Minfeng , Sun Wenji , Zheng Xiaohui
Published: December 2008

The tissue distribution profile of Danshensu, one of the bioactive components in Radix salviae miltiorrhiae, was investigated after oral administration of Radix salviae miltiorrhiae coupled with Radix curcumae in rabbits. Eighteen rabbits were evenly divided into 3 groups. Rabbits of the groups were orally administrated with carboxymethyl cellulose, Radix salviae miltiorrhiae (10.0 g/kg) and Radix salviae miltiorrhiae (10.0 g/kg) coupled with Radix curcumae (5.0 g/kg), respectively. High performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionic trap mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MSn) was used for the determination of Danshensu in the tissues including heart, liver, kidney and brain. The statistical results demonstrated that the characteristic profiles of Danshensu were c kidney > c heart > c liver > c brain and c kidney > c brain > c liver > c heart after administration of Radix salviae miltiorrhiae and Radix salviae miltiorrhiae coupled with Radix curcumae, respectively, indicating that Radix curcumae could obviously increase the concentration of Danshensu in brain. This result would provide substantial foundation for the harmonizing effect of Shi herb in a Chinese compound prescription.
Cordycepin is an Immunoregulatory Active Ingredient of Cordyceps sinensis
Authors: Zhou Xiaoxia , Luo Liping , Dressel Waike , Shadier Gulibahaer , Krumbiegel Doreen , Schmidtke Peter , Zepp Fred , Meyer Claudius U.
Published: December 2008

We have reported that cordycepin, an adenosine derivative from the fungus Cordyceps, increased interleukin (IL)-10 expression, decreased IL-2 expression and suppressed T lymphocyte activity. In the present study, we further characterized the regulatory effects of cordycepin on human immune cells. Moreover, a traditional Chinese drug, Cordyceps sinensis (CS) that contains cordycepin, was also investigated. Cytometric Bead Array (CBA) was used to determine the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, TNF-α and IFN-γ in culture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The results showed that both cordycepin and CS up-regulated IL-10, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α; at the same time, they suppressed phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-induced production of IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IFN-γ and IL-12. As compared to cordycepin, CS displayed its regulatory effects on IL-2 and IL-10 in a similar dose-dependent manner even with higher efficiency. The binding activity of transcription factors in a human monocytic cell line THP-1 was tested by the trans-AM method, and a higher binding activity of SP1 and SP3 was observed in cordycepin or CS treated cells compared to the control. These results led to the opinion that cordycepin and CS pleiotropically affected the actions of immune cells and cytokine network in a similar fashion. Cordycepin could be an important immunoregulatory active ingredient in Cordyceps sinensis. In addition, CS may contain substances which possess synergism with cordycepin, as CS showed a higher efficiency in the production of IL-10 and IL-2 than cordycepin. However, merits of these effects in pharmacology and clinical medicine have yet to be proven and the precise mechanism of these immune regulatory actions should be researched.
Comparison of the Effects of Korean Ginseng and Heat-Processed Korean Ginseng on Diabetic Oxidative Stress
Authors: Kim Hyun Young , Kang Ki Sung , Yamabe Noriko , Yokozawa Takako
Published: December 2008

To investigate the effects of Korean ginseng (KG, Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer) and heat-processed Korean ginseng (H-KG) on diabetic renal damage, we used the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat model in this study. The diabetes-induced physiological abnormalities at early-stage were attenuated by KG or H-KG administration through reducing the blood glucose level and improving renal function. The oxidative stress-induced increases in serum and renal thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance levels were significantly reduced by KG and H-KG administrations. Moreover, the protein expressions related to oxidative stress and advanced glycation endproducts were significantly reduced in diabetic rats and/or not significantly increased compared to normal rats by KG or H-KG administration. All of these beneficial effects of H-KG in diabetic rats were stronger than those of KG. Therefore, KG and H-KG may improve diabetic pathological conditions and prevent renal damage associated with diabetic nephropathy, and these protective effects of KG can be improved by heat-processing. This study provides scientific evidence that H-KG may be a potential therapeutic agent for pathological conditions associated with diabetic complications including diabetic nephropathy.
Effect ofDangguiandHonghuaon Cytochrome P450 1A2, 2C11, 2E1 and 3A1 mRNA Expression in Liver of Rats
Authors: Li Yan-Hong , Zhang Yin-Qing , Li Li , Wang Qing , Wang Ning-Sheng
Published: December 2008

As alternative medicines or dietary supplements, herbal medicines have received increasing interest in recent years. Danggui and Honghua are two of the most popular traditional Chinese herbal medicines. However, little is known about the pharmacokinetics interactions between Danggui/Honghua and prescription drugs. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of Danggui or Honghua on the gene expression of cytochrome P450 (CYP) using reverse- transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in Wistar rats. Commercial Danggui (0.35 and 0.7 g/kg, twice a day), Honghua (0.35 g/kg or 0.7 g/kg, twice a day) or water (control group) were given to rats (3 rats for each group) for 5 consecutive days. Treatment of rats with 0.7 and 1.4 g/kg per day Danggui or Honghua for 5 days caused mild to strong increase of CYP 3A1 and decrease of CYP 2E1 RNA expression. However, only Honghua (0.7 and 1.4 g/kg per day) induced the increase of CYP 1A2 RNA expression, while CYP 2C11 RNA was unaffected by both Danggui and Honghua. These data demonstrated that Danggui or Honghua affected the expression of hepatic CYP isoforms in the rats; they elevated CYP 1A2 and 3A1 RNA expression but inhibited CYP 2E1 RNA expression. Such alterations may change the therapeutic actions of the drugs metabolized primarily by P450 system when they are co-administered to people with Danggui or Honghua. Therefore, patients should be cautioned about the potential drug-herb interactions between Danggui or Honghua and prescription drugs that were metabolized by CYP1A2, 2E1 and 3A1 isoforms.
Freshwater Clam Extract Ameliorates Acute Liver Injury Induced by Hemorrhage in Rats
Authors: Peng Tai-Chu , Subeq Yi-Maun , Lee Chung-Jen , Lee Chia-Chi , Tsai Chueh-Jen , Chang Fwu-Mei , Lee Ru-Ping
Published: December 2008

The freshwater clam is a widely-consumed shellfish and is used as a remedy for chronic hepatitis in Asia. However, its contribution to acute liver injury (ALI) remains unclear. The aim of this study is to assess the protective effects of freshwater clam extract (CE) in ALI induced by hemorrhage in rats. Rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, (1) blood loss (BL) 40%, (2) CE 150 mg/kg plus BL 40%, (3) CE 75 mg/kg plus BL 40%, (4) CE 150 mg/kg, and (5) CE 75 mg/kg groups. CE was given by femoral vein catheter in Groups 2 to 5. Initial hemorrhage was induced by withdrawing blood (loss 40% of total blood volume) from a femoral arterial catheter after CE administration in Groups 2 and 3. The levels of blood tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were measured at several time points during the experimental period. Rats were sacrificed after 48 hours, and the liver was harvested for hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stain to show liver tissue injury. The results indicated that hemorrhage significantly decreased mean arterial pressure (MAP), increased blood AST, ALT and LDH levels and induced liver injury. Pre-treatment with the CE increased MAP and IL-10 levels and decreased AST, ALT, LDH and TNF-α levels after hemorrhage. The HE stains showed diminished organ injury in the CE groups. In conclusion, freshwater clam extract is a potential immunomodulating agent and ameliorates acute liver injury.
Effects of Ginkgo Biloba on Testicle Injury Induced by Diethylstilbestrol in Mice
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhong Xiu-Hui , Ma Aituan , Shi Wanyu , Zhang Xiao-Si , Liu Yuzhi
Published: December 2008

To evaluate the effect of gingko biloba (EGb) on diethylstilbestrol (DES) induced testicle injury in mice. Fifty male mice were divided into a control group (A), DES group (B), and 3 EGb groups (C, D, E). The EGb-treated groups received peritoneal EGb at 8.75 (C), 17.5 (D), 35 mg/kg (E) BW daily for 7 days. The control group was given equivalent amount of normal saline. The mice in groups B, C, D and E were injected hypodermically with DES at 40 mg/kg BW daily 4 hours after the first herbal administration, while the control was given olive oil. Compared with DES group, the testis coefficients-relative testicular weight increased in the three EGb-treated groups. No significant difference was observed in epididymis coefficients. Lipid peroxidation status and antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) were significantly elevated in testes of EGb-treated groups. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities and malonaldehyde (MDA) contents were significantly decreased in testes of the EGb groups. The results indicate that EGb protects the testis from diethylstilbestrol-induced injury.
Eriobotrya japonicaLeaf and Its Triterpenes Inhibited Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Cytokines and Inducible Enzyme Production via the Nuclear Factor-κB Signaling Pathway in Lung Epithelial Cells
Authors: Lee Chang-Hsien , Wu Shih-Lu , Chen Jaw-Chyun , Li Chia-Cheng , Lo Hsin-Yi , Cheng Wen-Yu , Lin Jaung-Geng , Chang Yung-Hsien , Hsiang Chien-Yun , Ho Tin-Yun
Published: December 2008

Pulmonary inflammation is a characteristic of many lung diseases. Increased levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and IL-8, have been correlated with lung inflammation. In this study, we used lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce iNOS, COX-2, and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-8) productions in human lung epithelial cells (A-549). Leaf of Eriobotrya japonica (Pi-Pa-Ye, PPY), a traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of pulmonary inflammatory diseases, was capable of suppressing LPS-induced cytokine productions in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the suppression of PPY on the cytokine productions resulted from the inhibition of inhibitory κB-α phosphorylation and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation. Analysis of the anti-inflammatory effects of ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, the triterpene compounds present in PPY, showed that ursolic acid significantly inhibited LPS-induced IL-8 production, NF-κB activation, and iNOS mRNA expression, whereas oleanolic acid did not have these effects. In conclusion, our findings suggested the potential mechanisms of PPY and its active component, ursolic acid, in the treatment of pulmonary inflammation.
Studies on Antioxidant Activities of Breviscapine in the Cell-Free System
Authors: Wang Min , Xie Chen , Cai Run-Lan , Li Xiao-Hong , Luo Xiu-Zhen , Qi Yun
Published: December 2008

Breviscapine is a commercially produced plant extract from the Chinese herb Erigeron breviscapus. (Vant.) Hand.-Mazz., which contains 2 main flavonoids. It is widely used in clinic to treat ischemic diseases in which free radicals are considered to be the main causal factor. Our study is aimed to examine the antioxidant activity of this extract. The following assays were employed: 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, superoxide anion radical scavenging, nitric oxide radical scavenging, total anti-oxidative capacity, and antilipid peroxidation assays. Breviscapine was demonstrated to show an effective activity on scavenging DPPH, superoxide anion radicals and nitric oxide. The total antioxidative capacity of breviscapine (7.8 μg/ml to 250 μg/ml) was 1.22 to 6.74 FRAP value (× 10-5mmol). At the highest concentration of breviscapine, the inhibition extent of lipid peroxidation induced by Fe2+in rat liver homogenates was 38.5%. Because of the antioxidant activity, the present study is therefore designed to investigate the therapeutic potential of breviscapine for treatment of ischemic diseases.
Potential Role of Ginseng in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Chong-Zhi , Yuan Chun-Su
Published: December 2008

Colorectal cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancer and a leading cause of cancer related death in the US. Many currently used chemotherapeutic agents are derived from botanicals. Identifying herbal sources, including those from ginseng family, to develop better anti-cancer therapies remains an essential step in advancing the treatment of the cancer. In this article, potential roles of ginseng herbs, especially American ginseng and notoginseng, in colorectal cancer therapeutics are presented. The major pharmacologically active constituents of ginsengs are ginsenosides, which can be mainly classified as protopanaxadiol and protopanaxatriol groups. Structure-activity relationship between their chemical structures and pharmacological activities are discussed. In addition, various steaming temperature and time treatment of the ginseng herbs can change ginsenoside profiles, and enhance their anti-cancer activities. This heat treatment process may increase the role of ginseng in treating colorectal cancer.
Pulse Spectrum Analysis, a Faster and Easier Way to Predict Outcome of Sepsis?
Authors: Lin Chien-Jung , Wang Chi-Hsien , Lin Jaung-Geng , Chang Yu-Hsin , Lin Jui-Shan , Su Yi-Chang
Published: December 2008

In order to provide a faster and easier way for outcome prediction of sepsis, this study aimed to characterize the pattern of arterial pulse spectrum by a rat cecum ligation and puncture (CLP) model and explore whether specific harmonic components of pulse spectrum are associated with the mortality of CLP rats, followed by the comparison of accuracy between these specific variables and IL-6.

Nineteen Sprague-Dawley rats receiving CLP were analyzed. Femoral artery of each rat was catheterized for blood pressure recording and blood sampling in the first 24 hours after CLP. The former was for off-line pulse spectrum analysis, and the latter for IL-6 assay. These rats were observed for 3-day mortality after CLP, and were divided into survivor or non-survivor groups. Differences of the hemodynamic profile, IL-6, and changes of the harmonics between the 2 groups were analyzed by using the Mann-Whitney test. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed to characterize cumulative survival with the best prognostic cutoff point.

The characteristic changes of pulse spectrum were different between survivors and non-survivors. The percentage differences of the 2nd harmonic proportion (C2) increased significantly from the 10th hour after CLP, and was higher in the non-survivors. Serum levels of IL-6 were also higher in the non-survivor group. Analyzed by Kaplan-Meier survival curve for 3-day mortality, C2 had a higher accuracy than IL-6 as a predictor.

The pulse spectrum analysis may be applied to evaluate the prognosis of CLP rats, and the rapidly and highly elevated C2 harmonic had a strong association with the 3-day mortality of CLP rats.
Characterization of the Anti-Diabetic and Antioxidant Effects of Rehmannia Glutinosa in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats
Authors: Waisundara Viduranga Y. , Huang Meiqi , Hsu Annie , Huang Dejian , Tan Benny Kwong-Huat
Published: December 2008

This study investigated the effects of Rehmannia glutinosa individually as well as in combination with the oral hypoglycemic agent, metformin in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Wistar rats. R. glutinosa ethanolic extract was prepared and the constituents were characterized using fractionation by column chromatography, followed by high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. STZ (65 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally to induce diabetes in Wistar rats. The diabetic rats were divided into the following groups (each n = 6) and received the respective treatments for 30 days: (1) metformin (500 mg/kg), (2) R. glutinosa (200 mg/kg), (3) metformin (500 mg/kg) and R. glutinosa (200 mg/kg) and (4) diabetic control (DC). A reduction in plasma glucose levels caused by the herb was not as significant as metformin compared to the diabetic control ( p < 0.05). However, R. glutinosa-treated group showed reductions in plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) levels compared to the diabetic controls ( p < 0.05) as well as metformin-treated group ( p < 0.05). An enhanced reduction in CRP concentration was observed in the group receiving both herb and metformin compared to metformin-treated group ( p < 0.05). Reduction in CRP levels suggests an anti-inflammatory activity of the herb.
THERMAL–DYNAMIC COUPLING ANALYSIS OF LARGE SPACE STRUCTURES CONSIDERING GEOMETRIC NONLINEARITY
Authors: DUAN JIN , XIANG ZHI-HAI , XUE MING-DE
Published: December 2008

In this paper, a beam element is derived for the thermal–dynamic coupling analysis by the updated Lagrangian formulation. The nodal transformation matrix of the element is obtained by dividing the rigid body rotation of the beam element into the relative translational displacements and axial rotation. With this transformation matrix, the interaction between the structural deformation and the absorbed heat flux can be formulated and the thermal–structural coupling effect is thus considered. The validity of the proposed method is illustrated by comparing the obtained results with the numerical, analytical or experimental results available in the literature. Then the method is employed to analyze the thermal–structural responses of the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) solar array. From the results, a reasonable explanation can be given for the failure of the telescope in 1990.
SHEAR BUCKLING OF THIN PLATES USING THE SPLINE COLLOCATION METHOD
Authors: WU LAI-YUN , WU CHENG-HUNG , HUANG HSU-HUI
Published: December 2008

This paper presents a highly accurate method for analyzing the critical shear buckling load of thin elastic rectangular plates. The solutions are approximated by the extended spline collocation method (SCM). Using the quintic table in place of the complex quintic B-spline functions, one can easily formulate the field equation of shear buckling loads for a thin elastic rectangular plate. Through the generalized eigenvalue analysis, the shear buckling loads and mode shapes for the plate can be determined precisely. Numerical examples are given for the critical shear buckling load of plates with various combinations of boundary conditions, aspect ratios, and uni- and bi-directional compressive/tensile loadings. The solutions obtained by the SCM are compared with those by the finite element method, the Lagrangian multiplier method, and the extended Kantorovich method under several types of boundary conditions. Compared with the other methods, the proposed SCM is not only more accurate, but also easier for computation.
NONLINEAR MAGNETOELASTIC VIBRATION EQUATIONS AND RESONANCE ANALYSIS OF A CURRENT-CONDUCTING THIN PLATE
Authors: HU YUDA , LI JING
Published: December 2008

Based on the Maxwell equations, the electromagnetic constitutive relations and boundary condition, the electrodynamic equation and the electromagnetic force expressions in an electromagnetic field are derived. Using the principle of virtual work, the basic set of equations for nonlinear electromagnetic elasticity vibration expressed by the displacement of a thin plate in a longitudinal and a transverse magnetic field is obtained, respectively. In addition, we study the nonlinear principal resonance and the solution stability of a thin plate with two opposite sides simply supported and subjected to a mechanical live load and in a constant transverse magnetic field. By the method of multiple scales, the amplitude frequency response equation and the approximate analytic solution in steady motion are also derived. According to the characteristic of singularity and the Lyapunov stability theory, the stability of the solution is analyzed and the critical condition of stability is determined. Finally, by means of numerical calculations, the amplitude frequency response curves, time history response plots and phase charts of the magnetoelasticity vibration are obtained.
Classification Methods in the Detection of New Suspicious Emails
Authors: Balamurugan S. Appavu Alias , Athiappan G. , Pandian M. Muthu , Rajaram R.
Published: December 2008

Email has become one of the fastest and most economical forms of communication. However, the increase of email users has resulted in the dramatic increase of suspicious emails during the past few years. This paper proposes to apply classification data mining for the task of suspicious email detection based on deception theory. In this paper, email data was classified using four different classifiers (Neural Network, SVM, Naïve Bayesian and Decision Tree). The experiment was performed using weka on the basis of different data size by which the suspicious emails are detected from the email corpus. Experimental results show that simple ID3 classifier which make a binary tree, will give a promising detection rates.
Knowledge Sharing and Innovation Performance
Authors: Jantunen Ari , Puumalainen Kaisu , Hurmelinna-Laukkanen Pia
Published: December 2008

The intensity and directions of knowledge flows between different actors are essential determinants in innovation. Knowledge acquisition is needed to find the relevant signals from markets, and knowledge sharing can facilitate benefits from network externalities and collaboration. A deeper understanding of the dynamics within knowledge transfer is, however, still needed. Thus, our goal is to clarify the effects of knowledge sharing on innovative performance. We test our model with a sample of 299 medium-sised and large Finnish companies. Our multi-way ANOVA results indicate that the level of innovation performance varies between the knowledge sources and the types of knowledge sharing.
Five-Factor Model of Personality Disorder: A Proposal for DSM-V
Authors: Widiger Thomas A. , Mullins-Sweatt Stephanie N.
Published: December 2008

The predominant dimensional model of general personality structure within psychology is the five-factor model (FFM). Research indicates that the personality disorders of the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic manual can be understood as maladaptive variants of the domains and facets of the FFM. The current review provides a proposal for the classification of personality disorder from the perspective of the FFM. Discussed as well are implications and issues associated with an FFM of personality disorder, including the integration of a psychiatric nomenclature with general personality structure, the inclusion of a domain of openness to experience, the identification of problems in living associated with maladaptive personality traits, the setting of a diagnostic threshold, prototypal matching, feasibility, and clinical utility.
The serum complement system: a simplified laboratory exercise to measure the activity of an important component of the immune system
Authors: Inglis Jordan E. , Radziwon Kimberly A. , Maniero Gregory D.
Published: December 2008

The immune system is a vital physiological component that affords animals protection from disease and is composed of innate and adaptive mechanisms that rely on cellular and dissolved components. The serum complement system is a series of dissolved proteins that protect against a variety of pathogens. The activity of complement in serum can be determined by its ability to lyse red blood cells in vitro. Here, we describe a modification of a standard complement hemolysis assay that makes an interesting and informative laboratory exercise suitable for a variety of courses including physiology.