bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the Guanacaste tree, Enterolobium cyclocarpum
Authors: PETERS MAUREEN B. , HAGEN CRIS , TRAPNELL DORSET W. , HAMRICK J. L. , ROCHA OSCAR , SMOUSE PETER E. , GLENN TRAVIS C.
Published: July 2007

We isolated nine microsatellite loci from the Guanacaste tree (Enterolobium cyclocarpum) and optimized them for future research on breeding populations of this species. Loci were screened across 53 individuals from one population and were shown to be variable with the number of alleles per locus ranging from five to 15. Polymorphic information content ranged from 0.420 to 0.900 and observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.547 to 0.906.
The possible prophylactic effect of Nigella sativa seed extract in asthmatic patients
Authors: Boskabady Mohammad Hossein , Javan H. , Sajady M. , Rakhshandeh H.
Published: July 2007

In previous studies, the relaxant, anticholinergic (functional antagonism) antihistaminic, effects of Nigella sativa have been demonstrated on guinea‐pig tracheal chains. In the present study, the prophylactic effect of boiled extract of N. sativa on asthmatic disease was examined. Twenty‐nine asthmatic adults were randomly divided into control group (14 patients) and study group (15 patients), and they were studied for 3 months. In the study group 15 mL/kg of 0.1 g% boiled extract and in the control group a placebo solution was administrated daily throughout the study. Asthma symptom score, asthma severity, frequency of symptoms/week and wheezing were recorded in the beginning (first visit), 45 days after treatment (second visit), and at the end of the study (third visit). Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were also measured, and the drug regimen of the patients was evaluated at three different visits. All asthma symptoms, frequency of asthma symptoms/week, chest wheezing, and PFT values in the study group significantly improved in the second and third visits compared with the first visit (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). In addition, further improvement of chest wheezing and severity of disease on the third visit were observed compared with the second visit in this group (P < 0.05 for both cases). In the third visit all symptoms in the study group were significantly different from those of the control group (P < 0.01 to P < 0.001). However, in the control group, there were only small improvements in some parameters in just the second visit. The usage of inhaler and oral β‐agonists, oral corticosteroid, oral theophylline and even inhaler corticosteroid in the study group decreased at the end of the study while there were no obvious changes in usage of the drugs in control subjects. The results of phase I study generally suggest a prophylactic effect of N. sativa on asthma disease and warrant further research regarding this effect.
Evaluation of two evidence‐based knowledge transfer interventions for physicians. A cluster randomized controlled factorial design trial: the CardioDAS Study
Authors: Amsallem Emmanuel , Kasparian Christelle , Cucherat Michel , Chabaud Sylvie , Haugh Margaret , Boissel Jean‐Pierre , Nony Patrice
Published: July 2007

To investigate the potential benefits of two modes of evidence‐based knowledge transfer (‘active’ and ‘passive’ modes) in terms of improvement of intention of prescription, knowledge, and real prescription in practice, we performed an open randomized controlled trial (CardioDAS) using a factorial design (two tested interventions: ‘active’ and ‘passive’ knowledge transfer) and a hierarchical structure (cluster of physicians for each department level). The participants were cardiologists working in French public hospitals. In the ‘passive’ transfer group, cardiologists received evidence‐based knowledge material (available on Internet) every week for a duration of 1 year. In the ‘active’ transfer group, two knowledge brokers (EA, PN) visited the participating departments (every 2 months for 1 year, 2 h per visit). The primary outcome consisted in the adjusted absolute mean variation of score (difference between post‐ and pre‐study session) of answers to simulated cases assessing the intention to prescribe. Secondary outcomes were the variation of answers to a multiple‐choice questionnaire (MCQ) assessing knowledge and of the conformity of real prescriptions to evidence‐based reference assessing the behavioral change. Twenty‐two French units (departments) of cardiology were randomized (72 participating cardiologists). In the ‘active’ transfer group, the primary outcome was more improved than that in the control (P = 0.031 at the department level, absolute mean improvement of 5 points/100). The change in knowledge transfer (MCQ) was also significant (P = 0.039 at the department level, absolute mean improvement of 6 points/100). However, no benefit was shown in terms of prescription conformity to evidence. For the ‘passive’ mode of knowledge transfer and for the three outcomes considered, no improvement was identified. CardioDAS findings confirm that ‘active’ knowledge transfer has some impact on participants’ intent to prescribe and knowledge, but no effect on behavioral outcome. ‘Passive’ transfer seems far less efficient. In addition, the size of the benefit remains small and its consequences limited in practice.
Repeated priming of attachment security influences later views of self and relationships
Authors: CARNELLEY KATHERINE B. , ROWE ANGELA C.
Published: July 2007

Research shows that priming attachment security results in positive relationship expectations and affect (Rowe & Carnelley, 2003). We examined whether repetitive priming of attachment security (e.g., experimentally activating cognitive representations of attachment security) would have more lasting effects on relationship‐ and self‐views. Participants provided baseline measures at Time 1. On 3 occasions (across 3 days), we primed participants with attachment security or a neutral prime (Times 2–4). Two days later (Time 5), participants completed trait‐level measures not preceded by a prime. As expected, those repeatedly primed with attachment security reported more positive relationship expectations, more positive self‐views, and less attachment anxiety at Time 5 than at Time 1; those primed with neutral primes showed no change with time. These priming effects last longer than those typically found.
Delivery in the ‘grey zone’: Collaborative approach to extremely preterm birth
Authors: KEOGH John , SINN John , HOLLEBONE Keith , BAJUK Barbara , FISCHER Wendy , LUI Kei ,   the Consensus Workshop Organising Committee
Published: July 2007

During the recent New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory consensus workshop on Perinatal Care at the limits of viability, recommendations were made in the areas of education, counselling and management. Critically, there was a consensus that between 23 weeks and zero days and 25 weeks and six days of gestation, it was reasonable to offer the option of non‐initiation of resuscitation and intensive care. Within this, obligation to treat increases as the gestation advances. Implications of the statement for obstetricians are discussed in this article.
A randomised comparison of hydralazine and mini‐bolus diazoxide for hypertensive emergencies in pregnancy: The PIVOT trial
Authors: HENNESSY Annemarie , THORNTON Charlene E. , MAKRIS Angela , OGLE Robert F. , HENDERSON‐SMART David J. , GILLIN Adrian G. , CHILD Andrew
Published: July 2007

Aims:  Diazoxide is one of few available agents for treatment of hypertensive emergencies in pregnancy. From previous studies, there is a question concerning safety after moderate‐dose administration caused episodes of hypotension. Rapid control of severe hypertension is necessary to reduce maternal morbidity, for example, stroke and placental abruption. This study was designed to compare the efficacy of mini‐bolus diazoxide with intravenous (i.v.) hydralazine.

Design:  A randomised controlled trial.

Setting:  Tertiary referral maternity hospital, Royal Prince Alfred Women and Babies, Sydney Australia.

Population:  Antenatal and postnatal women with severe hypertension.

Methods:  One hundred and twenty‐four hypertensive women were randomised to either i.v. hydralazine (5 mg doses) or mini‐bolus diazoxide (15 mg doses).

Primary outcome measure:  Achievement of target blood pressure reduction; secondary measures included requirement for Caesarean section because of fetal deterioration as determined by non‐reassuring cardiotocograph (CTG).

Results:  Reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure was 34 min for hydralazine and 19 min for diazoxide (P < 0.001). There were no episodes of hypotension after diazoxide and one after hydralazine (after epidural). Episodes of persistent severe hypertension were more common with hydralazine (38%) than with diazoxide (16%), P < 0.01. The Caesarean section rate for no‐reassuring CTG was no different between the two groups. Neonatal outcomes were similar.

Conclusion:  Diazoxide and hydralazine are safe and effective antihypertensives, showing a controlled and comparable blood pressure reduction in women with hypertensive emergencies in pregnancy. The mini‐bolus doses of 15 mg of diazoxide did not precipitate maternal hypotension as previously described and reduces episodes of persistent severe hypertension.
Stillbirths and neonatal deaths in appropriate, small and large birthweight for gestational age fetuses
Authors: VASHEVNIK Stas , WALKER Susan , PERMEZEL Michael
Published: July 2007

Aims:  To compare the risk of stillbirth and neonatal death in small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA), appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age (AGA) and large‐for‐gestational‐age (LGA) fetuses and neonates.

Design:  Retrospective analysis of 662 043 births and outcomes recorded in the Victorian Perinatal Data Collection Unit (1992–2002).

Inclusion criteria:  Births in Victoria in 1992–2002.

Exclusion criteria:  Multiple pregnancy and congenital birth defects.

Main outcome measures:  Births, stillbirths and neonatal deaths at each week of gestation after 23 weeks were stratified by birthweight into appropriate, small and large for gestational age. Stillbirth risk per 1000 ongoing pregnancies and neonatal death rate per 1000 live births were calculated.

Results:  For the AGA group, the overall stillbirth risk was 2.88 per 1000 and neonatal death rate was 1.35 per 1000. In the LGA group, these were 2.62 and 1.83 per 1000, respectively. The slight increase in neonatal death rate among LGA fetuses was confined to those delivered after 28 weeks gestation. In the SGA group, the stillbirth risk and neonatal death rate were 15.1 and 3.99 per 1000, respectively.

Conclusion:  The risk of stillbirth per week of gestational age and neonatal death rates do not differ significantly between AGA and LGA fetuses and neonates. The SGA fetus is at significantly greater risk of both stillbirth and neonatal death, particularly with advancing gestational age.
A quantitative analysis of the menopause experience of Indian women living in Sydney
Authors: HAFIZ Israt , LIU Jinzhu , EDEN John
Published: July 2007

Aims:  To examine the experience of menopause in Indian women (aged 45–65 years) in Sydney, and the relationship between sociodemographic factors and menopausal symptoms, and also to explore the cultural context.

Methods:  Two hundred and three women were interviewed about their menopausal experiences in the preceding week using the 29‐item Menopause‐Specific Quality of Life questionnaire.

Results:  The mean age of menopause for Indian women was found to be earlier than in other groups in the published literature, at 48.21 years. While there were higher scores for physical symptoms than for other symptoms, and there were significant differences between perimenopausal women and the others, it was found that the prevalence of classical menopausal symptoms was lower in Indian women than that found in Caucasians. However, physical and several psychological symptoms were found to be more prevalent than the usual vasomotor symptoms. Unemployed women and women with a tertiary level of education were found to experience a significantly higher score for all symptoms in our sample.

Conclusions:  Lower scores of menopause symptoms indicate that Indian women have fewer complaints of symptoms and a positive attitude towards menopause. Somatic symptoms are multifactorial in nature and could be because of health problems associated with ageing, midlife crises and cultural influences. Further detailed studies could examine the important relationship between cultural lifestyle factors and climacteric symptoms.
Randomised comparative trial of thermal balloon ablation and levonorgestrel intrauterine system in patients with idiopathic menorrhagia
Authors: SHAW Robert W. , SYMONDS Ian M. , TAMIZIAN Onnig , CHAPLAIN Julie , MUKHOPADHYAY Sambit
Published: July 2007

Aims:  To compare the effectiveness of thermal balloon ablation (TBA) and levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG‐IUS) in the management of idiopathic menorrhagia and changes in pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBAC) scores in patients who had failed on oral medical treatment.

Methods:  Phase III, single‐centre, open randomised controlled trial. Following full screening and evaluation of 104 women, 33 were randomised to TBA and 33 to LNG‐IUS. Primary outcomes were changes in PBAC scores from baseline to 12 months. Secondary outcomes were changes in haemoglobin and serum ferritin, at six months, continuation with treatment and hysterectomy rates at two years and changes in PBAC scores at three, six and nine months.

Results:  All patients randomised had a PBAC score of ≥ 120. At all assessment times, median PBAC scores were less than baseline, the greatest reductions being seen at 12 months for both treatments. When the median PBAC for the LNG‐IUS (26 (0–68)) was significantly different to the median PBAC for the TBA cohort (62 (0–142)) P < 0.001. Irregular bleeding problems were the most common reason for discontinuation of the LNG‐IUS and resulted in more women (39.8%) seeking other treatment by two years than the TBA (23.1%) (P < 0.05) and more undergoing a hysterectomy (20.7% vs 13.3%, respectively) (p > 0.05). Patient acceptability of the LNG‐IUS and TBA was similar at 12 and 24 months in terms of their perceived satisfaction of effect on menorrhagia.

Conclusions:  Both TBA and LNG‐IUS achieved significant decreases in PBAC scores, with those for the LNG‐IUS being significantly greater at 12 months. However, prolonged days of bleeding resulted in fewer women continuing with the LNG‐IUS at two years.
GENETIC STRUCTURE IN POPULATIONS OF FUCUS VESICULOSUS (PHAEOPHYCEAE) OVER SPATIAL SCALES FROM 10 M TO 800 KM1
Authors: Tatarenkov Andrey , Jönsson Rita B. , Kautsky Lena , Johannesson Kerstin
Published: July 2007

Recent studies showing consequences of species’ genetic diversity on ecosystem performance raise the concern of how key ecosystem species are genetically structured. The bladder wrack Fucus vesiculosus L. is a dominant species of macroalga in the northern Atlantic, and it is particularly important as a habitat‐forming species in the Baltic Sea. We examined the genetic structure of populations of F. vesiculosus with a hierarchical approach from a within‐shore scale (10 m) to a between‐seas scale (Baltic Sea–Skagerrak, 800 km). Analysis of five microsatellite loci showed that population differentiation was generally strong (average FST = 12%), being significant at all spatial scales investigated (101, 103, 104–5, 106 m). Genetic differentiation between seas (Baltic Sea and Skagerrak) was substantial. Nevertheless, the effects of isolation by distance were stronger within seas than between seas. Notably, Baltic summer‐reproducing populations showed a strong within‐sea, between‐area (70 km) genetic structure, while Baltic autumn‐reproducing populations and Skagerrak summer‐reproducing populations revealed most genetic diversity between samples within areas (<1 km). Despite such differences in overall structure, Baltic populations of summer‐ and autumn‐reproducing morphs did not separate in a cluster analysis, indicating minor, if any, barriers to gene flow between them. Our results have important implications for management and conservation of F. vesiculosus, and we raise a number of concerns about how genetic variability should be preserved within this species.
Evaluating Readiness and Treatment Seeking Effects in a Pharmacotherapy Trial for Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Penberthy J. Kim , Ait‐Daoud Nassima , Breton Marc , Kovatchev Boris , DiClemente Carlo C. , Johnson Bankole A.
Published: July 2007

Background:  Decreases in drinking behavior prior to treatment onset often occur in pharmacotherapy trials for alcohol dependence. We propose that these decreases are associated with both trait and state factors operating before initiation of treatment to influence participants’ expectation or perception of future treatment outcome. While trait factors typically include personality traits, state factors can include readiness to change and severity of drinking at screening. Understanding the characteristics of changes in drinking early in the process of entering treatment can improve clinical trials and outcomes. Our goal was to evaluate drinking behavior before initiating a randomized, double‐blind pharmacotherapy clinical trial for alcohol dependence.

Methods:  We examined the impact of personality factors associated with gregariousness or conformity on the MacAndrew Alcoholism Scale, as well as state factors measured by the Stages‐of‐Change Scale (based on the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment Scale) and quantity of drinking at screening, on pre‐double‐blind clinical outcome (i.e., drinking reduction) among 321 male and female alcoholics enrolled in a pharmacotherapy trial.

Results:  A significant reduction in alcohol consumption occurred among heavy drinkers between the baseline assessment (10.3 ± 5.9 drinks per day) and the last week of single‐blind placebo administration (5.3 ± 5.1 drinks per day; p < 0.001). In contrast, the reduction in alcohol consumption by nonheavy drinkers over the same period was not significant (from 3.07 ± 0.65 to 2.98 ± 2.6 drinks per day; p > 0.05). Partial correlations indicated that the significant predictors of drinking reductions during this period were: level of drinking (−0.215) and the Stages‐of‐Change subscales of precontemplation (−0.152), contemplation (0.144), and maintenance (−0.284). Personality factors on the MacAndrew Alcoholism Scale did not predict drinking reductions during this same period.

Conclusions:  Participants with higher motivation levels and greater drinking severity were most likely to reduce their drinking behavior before double‐blind treatment. These state factors are important to consider when randomizing participants in trials, and are more important than trait or personality factors in accounting for the initial reduction in drinking in this population during the pretreatment period.
Characterization of the Acute Cardiac Electrophysiologic Effects of Ethanol in Dogs
Authors: Fenelon Guilherme , Balbão Carlos E. B. , Fernandes Rinaldo , Arfelli Elerson , Landim Priscila , Ayres Otávio , Paola Angelo A.V. de
Published: July 2007

Background:  Alcohol has been related to atrial fibrillation (holiday heart syndrome), but its electrophysiologic actions remain unclear.

Methods:  We evaluated the effects of alcohol in 23 anesthetized dogs at baseline and after 2 cumulative intravenous doses of ethanol: first dose 1.5 ml/kg (plasma level 200 mg/dl); second dose 1.0 ml/kg (279 mg/dl). In 13 closed‐chest dogs (5 with intact autonomic nervous system, 5 under combined autonomic blockade and 3 sham controls), electrophysiologic evaluation and monophasic action potential (MAP) recordings were undertaken in the right atrium and ventricle. In 5 additional dogs, open‐chest biatrial epicardial mapping with 8 bipoles on Bachmann’s bundle was undertaken. In the remaining 5 dogs, 2D echocardiograms and ultrastructural analysis were performed.

Results:  In closed‐chest dogs with intact autonomic nervous system, ethanol had no effects on surface electrocardiogram and intracardiac variables. At a cycle length of 300 milliseconds, no effects were noted on atrial and ventricular refractoriness and on the right atrial MAP. These results were not altered by autonomic blockade. No changes occurred in sham controls. In open‐chest dogs, ethanol did not affect inter‐atrial conduction time, conduction velocity, and wavelength. Atrial arrhythmias were not induced in any dog, either at baseline or after ethanol. Histological and ultrastructural findings were normal but left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction decreased in treated dogs (77 vs. 73 vs. 66%; p = 0.04).

Conclusion:  Ethanol at medium and high doses depresses LV systolic function but has no effects on atrial electrophysiological parameters. These findings suggest that acute alcoholic intoxication does not directly promote atrial arrhythmias.
Chronic Ethanol‐Induced Insulin Resistance Is Associated With Macrophage Infiltration Into Adipose Tissue and Altered Expression of Adipocytokines
Authors: Kang Li , Sebastian Becky M. , Pritchard Michele T. , Pratt Brian T. , Previs Stephen F. , Nagy Laura E.
Published: July 2007

Background:  Chronic ethanol consumption disrupts glucose homeostasis and is associated with the development of insulin resistance. While adipose tissue and skeletal muscle are the two major organs utilizing glucose in response to insulin, the relative contribution of these two tissues to impaired glucose homeostasis during chronic ethanol feeding is not known. As other models of insulin resistance, such as obesity, are characterized by an infiltration of macrophages into adipose tissue, as well as changes in the expression of adipocytokines that play a central role in the regulation of insulin sensitivity, we hypothesized that chronic ethanol‐induced insulin resistance would be associated with increased macrophage infiltration into adipose tissue and changes in the expression of adipocytokines by adipose tissue.

Methods:  Male Wistar rats were fed a liquid diet containing ethanol as 36% of calories or pair‐fed a control diet for 4 weeks. The effects of chronic ethanol feeding on insulin‐stimulated glucose utilization were studied using the hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp technique, coupled with the use of isotopic tracers. Further, macrophage infiltration into adipose tissue and expression of adipocytokines were also assessed after chronic ethanol feeding.

Results:  Hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp studies revealed that chronic ethanol feeding to rats decreased whole‐body glucose utilization and decreased insulin‐mediated suppression of hepatic glucose production. Chronic ethanol feeding decreased glucose uptake in epididymal, subcutaneous, and omental adipose tissue during the hyperinsulinemic‐euglycemic clamp, but had no effect on glucose disposal in skeletal muscle. Chronic ethanol feeding increased the infiltration of macrophages into epididymal adipose tissue and changed the expression of mRNA for adipocytokines: expression of mRNA for monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin‐6 were increased, while expression of mRNA for retinol binding protein 4 and adiponectin were decreased in epididymal adipose tissue.

Conclusions:  These data demonstrate that chronic ethanol feeding results in the development of insulin resistance, associated with impaired insulin‐mediated suppression of hepatic glucose production and decreased insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake into adipose tissue. Chronic ethanol‐induced insulin resistance was associated with increased macrophage infiltration into adipose tissue, as well as changes in the expression of adipocytokines by adipose tissue.
Do Casinos Cause Economic Growth?
Authors: Walker Douglas M. , Jackson John D.
Published: July 2007

Abstract.  Casino gambling is a popular form of entertainment and is purported to have positive effects on host economies. The industry surely affects local labor markets and tax revenues. However, there has been little evidence on the effects of casino gambling on state economic growth. This paper examines that relationship using Granger‐causality analysis modified for use with panel data. Our results indicate that there is no Granger‐causal relationship between real casino revenues and real per capita income at the state level. The results are based on annual data from 1991 to 2005. These findings contradict an earlier study that found that casino revenues Granger‐cause economic growth, using quarterly data from 1991 to 1996. Possible explanations for the differences in short‐ and long‐run effects are discussed.
Problems in Quantifying the Social Costs and Benefits of Gambling
Authors: Walker Douglas M.
Published: July 2007

Abstract. As casinos and other forms of gambling spread across the United States, voters and policymakers are becoming increasingly interested in the potential costs and benefits from expansion in gambling industries. Since the mid‐1990s, a variety of cost‐benefit research has been published, much of it using flawed methodologies. This paper examines some of the most important areas of debate and disagreement among gambling researchers, and explains why the quantification of the costs and benefits of gambling is problematic.
Flow Kinetics in Porous Ceramics: Understanding with Non‐Uniform Capillary Models
Authors: Patro Debdutt , Bhattacharyya Saswata , Jayaram Vikram
Published: July 2007

The present work describes the development of a two‐parameter non‐uniform capillary model to describe kinetics of flow in porous solids with complex tortuous varying paths. Experimentally, the rate of fluid flow in such a non‐uniform capillary is found to be orders of magnitude slower compared with a corresponding average uniform capillary. This slow rate is explained in terms of an extremely small ‘effective’ hydrodynamic radius. The origin of such an ‘unphysical’ radius is rationalized based on geometrical considerations and effective driving forces for flow through a stepped capillary. Infiltration rate parameters are derived from the geometry of the porous medium for both wetting and non‐wetting conditions.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of Single‐Phase BiFeO3 Powders from a Polymeric Precursor
Authors: Popa Monica , Crespo Daniel , Calderon‐Moreno Jose M. , Preda Silviu , Fruth Victor
Published: July 2007

The present investigation reports on a simple technique for the preparation of single‐phase BiFeO3 powders using the polymerized complex method, starting from iron and bismuth nitrates. A mixed aqueous solution with citric acid, ethylene glycol, Bi, and Fe ions was polymerized. The formation mechanism, the homogeneity, and the structure of the obtained powders have been investigated by thermogravimetry, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy measurements. XRD results demonstrated that thermally induced crystallization of rhombohedral BiFeO3 from the Bi–Fe polymeric precursor occurred at temperatures as low as 400°C. Pure single‐phase BiFeO3 nanocrystallites without any impurity or amorphous phases were obtained when the precursor was treated at 600°C for 3 h.
Compaction and Pressureless Sintering of Zirconia Nanoparticles
Authors: Trunec Martin , Maca Karel
Published: July 2007

Four nanometer‐sized zirconia powders stabilized by 3 mol% Y2O3 were used for the preparation of dense bulk ceramics. Ceramic green bodies were prepared by cold isostatic pressing at pressures of 300–1000 MPa. The size of the pores in ceramic green bodies and their evolution during sintering were correlated with the characteristics of individual nanopowders and with the sintering behavior of powder compacts. Only homogeneous green bodies with pores of <10 nm could be sintered into dense bodies (>99% t.d.) at a sufficiently low temperature to keep the grain sizes in the range <100 nm. Powders with uniform particles 10 nm in size yielded green bodies of required microstructure. These nanoparticle compacts were sintered without pressure to give bodies (diameter 20 mm, thickness 4 mm) with a relative density higher than 99% and a grain size of about 85 nm (as determined by the linear intercept method).
Distinct Wear Characteristics of Submicrometer‐Grained Alumina in Air and Distilled Water: A Brief Analysis on Experimental Observation
Authors: Singha Roy R. , Basu D. , Chanda A. , Mitra M. K.
Published: July 2007

Sliding wear behavior of submicrometer‐grained (grain size=0.45 μm) alumina was investigated in air and distilled water and the result was compared with the wear characteristics of similar material with coarser grain sizes. Experiments were conducted with a pin‐on‐disk wear‐testing machine under identical test conditions. Alumina with submicrometer grain size exhibits substantially higher wear resistance compared with the coarser‐grained materials in both the environments. Scanning electron micrograph of the wornout samples revealed that in air, formation and subsequent degeneration of the compacted layer of wear‐debris on the sliding surface govern the wear loss. In distilled water, no compacted layer was observed and in such cases, grain pullout through coalescence of microcracks along grain boundaries was found to be the dominant mechanism of wear.
Simulation of Hydrogen Diffusion and Initiation of Hydrogen‐Induced Cracking in PZT Ferroelectric Ceramics Using a Phase Field Model
Authors: Guo Xiang‐Hua , Shi San‐Qiung , Qiao Li‐Jie
Published: July 2007

A phase field model was developed to simulate hydrogen diffusion and hydrogen‐induced cracking of lead zirconate ferroelectric ceramics (PZT‐5). In this model, the evolution of hydrogen concentration around a crack in PZT was coupled with stress field analysis by solving both time‐dependent diffusion equation and time‐dependent Ginzburg–Landau strain field equation. Combined with a fracture criterion, we simulated hydrogen diffusion and crack initiation in PZT ceramics caused by hydrogen ingress from the environment. Numerical results showed that, as the concentration of hydrogen increased, the fracture toughness of PZT ceramics decreased significantly by one or two orders of magnitudes. Therefore, the hydrogen diffusion had a significant influence on PZT ceramics in practical application.
Sintering Behavior of Gehlenite, Part II. Microstructure and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Jia Dechang , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: July 2007

A self‐toughened gehlenite (2CaO·Al2O3·SiO2or “C2AS”) ceramic with randomly distributed platelet grains was prepared by the organic steric entrapment (PVA) route. The gehlenite ceramic had a density of 2.698–2.875 g/cm3, corresponding to a relative density of 90%–96%. The platelet gehlenite grains had an average thickness of 3.6±0.8 μm and a width of 12.9±3.7 μm, respectively, with an average aspect ratio of 3.6. The three‐point bending strength, fracture toughness, and Young's modulus attained were 142.1±12.1 MPa, 2.32±0.12 MPa·m1/2, and 108±6.8 GPa, respectively. Fractography as well as Vickers indentation crack propagation profiles showed that crack deflection, crack blunting, and pinning effects due to the randomly distributed platelet grains were considered to be responsible for the good mechanical properties of the gehlenite ceramic.
Managing phosphorous soil dynamics over space and time
Authors: Lambert D. M. , Lowenberg‐DeBoer J. , Malzer G.
Published: July 2007

Understanding the relationship between soil fertility dynamics and crop response is conceptually appealing. Even more appealing is comprehension of the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of these connections over a production surface and across seasons. But gaining knowledge about these interactions is difficult because nutrient carryover dynamics and crop response to inputs are determined simultaneously on the one hand, and sequentially on the other. A second problem enters when crops are rotated, for example, the corn [Zea mays (L.) Merr.]–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] system commonly practiced in the U.S. Corn Belt. This article examines nutrient carryover–crop response dynamics using data from a corn‐soybean, variable rate nitrogen (N), and phosphorous (P) experiment conducted over five years in Minnesota, USA. Site‐specific corn response to N and P and soybean response to P is estimated with a P carryover equation. Estimates are used in a dynamic programming model to determine site‐specific optimal N and P fertilizer policies, soil P evolution, and profitability. The net present value of managing N and P site‐specifically is compared to a strategy in which these inputs are managed uniformly following Extension guidelines. The results suggest that when P carryover is accounted for in determining optimal P fertilizer rates, returns to the variable rate strategies are higher than returns to a uniform or whole‐field management strategy.
Comparing heterogeneous consumption in U.S. and Japanese meat and fish demand
Authors: Tonsor Glynn T. , Marsh Thomas L.
Published: July 2007

This article uses national, quarterly data to conduct an empirical analysis of pre‐committed meat and fish demand by U.S. and Japanese households using the generalized almost ideal demand system (GAIDS). Pre‐committed demand represents the component of demand that is insensitive to both income and price adjustments. U.S. consumers are found to hold significant positive pre‐committed demand for beef and pork, while Japanese consumers appear to possess significant, positive pre‐committed demand for beef and fish. This provides evidence to partially explain observed differences in Japanese and U.S. consumer reactions to nonprice and nonincome effects in beef, pork, poultry, and fish. In addition, based on in‐ and out‐of‐sample performance, the more general GAIDS is preferred to the almost ideal demand system (AIDS) for both the U.S. and Japanese demand systems. Results lend to improved demand modeling efforts and more complete understanding of true market forces at hand in meat and fish markets for these culturally diverse consumer groups.
Is there a risk of active sensitization to PPD by patch testing the general population?
Authors: Thyssen Jacob Pontoppidan , Menné Torkil , Nielsen Niels Henrik , Linneberg Allan
Published: July 2007

Para‐phenylenediamine (PPD), a constituent of permanent hair dyes, may cause contact allergy in exposed individuals. It has previously been questioned whether a patch testing with PPD in population‐based epidemiological studies is entirely safe. The Glostrup allergy studies patch tested the same cohort twice. In 1990, 567 persons were patch‐tested and only one person had a (+) positive reaction to PPD. In 1998, 540 persons were re‐invited to a new patch test and 365 (participation rate 68%) were re‐tested. There were no positive reactions to PPD. These studies indicate that patch testing with PPD in individuals with no previous positive reactions to PPD or with only one previous positive reaction does not cause active sensitization and can be performed with minimal risk.
Which test chambers should be used for acetone, ethanol, and water solutions when patch testing?
Authors: Isaksson Marléne , Gruvberger Birgitta , Frick‐Engfeldt Malin , Bruze Magnus
Published: July 2007

For solutions, there is a generally accepted amount to be applied in a Finn Chamber® and van der Bend chamber, that is, 15 and 20 μl, respectively. The objective of this study was to determine if the recommended volume is adequate. 12 volunteers were patch tested with green‐coloured solutions of water, ethanol, and acetone in the Finn and van der Bend chambers on the back on 2 occasions. On D2 test sites were scored. A negative test equalled a test area not covered to 100%. A positive test meant a completely green‐coloured test area. Minor and major spreading was noted. The appropriate amount equalled at the most 5% negative reactions. Major spreading was to be minimized to 5%. For ethanol, 100% positive reactions were noted in both test systems. Major spreading was seen in 23/24 Finn Chambers®. No spreading (major or minor) was noted for van der Bend chambers with any of the 3 solutions. With acetone and water, negative reactions in 0–8% were noted both with Finn Chambers and van der Bend chambers. To conclude, water solutions should preferably be tested in Finn Chambers®, while ethanol and acetone solutions are better tested in van der Bend chambers.
The local lymph node assay and the assessment of relative potency: status of validation
Authors: Basketter David A. , Gerberick Frank , Kimber Ian
Published: July 2007

For the prediction of skin sensitization potential, the local lymph node assay (LLNA) is a fully validated alternative to guinea‐pig tests. More recently, information from LLNA dose–response analyses has been used to assess the relative potency of skin sensitizing chemicals. These data are then deployed for risk assessment and risk management. In this commentary, the utility and validity of these relative potency measurements are reviewed. It is concluded that the LLNA does provide a valuable assessment of relative sensitizing potency in the form of the estimated concentration of a chemical required to produce a threefold stimulation of draining lymph node cell proliferation compared with concurrent controls (EC3 value) and that all reasonable validation requirements have been addressed successfully. EC3 measurements are reproducible in both intra‐ and interlaboratory evaluations and are stable over time. It has been shown also, by several independent groups, that EC3 values correlate closely with data on relative human skin sensitization potency. Consequently, the recommendation made here is that LLNA EC3 measurements should now be regarded as a validated method for the determination of the relative potency of skin sensitizing chemicals, a conclusion that has already been reached by a number of independent expert groups.
20 Years of standard patch testing in an eczema population with focus on patients with multiple contact allergies
Authors: Carlsen Berit Christina , Menné Torkil , Johansen Jeanne Duus
Published: July 2007

Results of standard patch tests performed with the same methodology in one centre are rarely available over a large time span. This gives the unique opportunity to study not only prevalence but also persistency of contact allergy and characterize subpopulations. The objectives were to investigate sensitivity rates and persistencies of patch test results and characterize patients with multiple contact allergies. A 20‐year retrospective database‐based study of 14 998 patients patch tested with the European Standard Series was performed. 34.5% were sensitized, primarily women. Sensitivity to nickel was most frequent and least frequent to mercaptobenzothiazole, N‐isopropyl‐N‐phenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine and benzocaine. Yearly proportion of negative, mono/double‐allergic, and multiple‐allergic cases remained stable. Persistency of positive reactions was high for para‐phenylenediamine, Cl(Me)isothiazolinone, and primin and poor for paraben mix. 5.1% were multiple allergic, primarily women, and 90% got diagnosed by the first test. Frequency of multiple allergies increased with age. More multiple‐ than mono/double‐allergic patients were tested multiple times. Persistency and sensitivity rates in a Danish eczema population are provided and are useful for decisions regarding the standard series. Patients with multiple contact allergies are typically elderly women who might have long‐lasting and hard‐to‐treat eczema. Cumulative environmental exposure seems necessary to develop multiple allergies.
Lactase‐induced occupational protein contact dermatitis and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
Authors: Laukkanen Arja , Ruoppi Pirkko , Remes Sami , Koistinen Tiina , Mäkinen‐Kiljunen Soili
Published: July 2007

Enzymes are high‐molecular‐weight proteins and highly sensitizing occupational allergens used widely in industrial processes. Lactase has been described to cause work‐related respiratory and conjunctival immunoglobulin (Ig)‐E‐mediated sensitizations in workers in the pharmaceutical industry. In these previous reports, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis or asthma was confirmed with prick tests but not by challenge tests. Lactase previously has not been described as a cause of immediate or delayed contact skin reaction. Furthermore, there are no previous reports of lactase‐specific IgE. We report a case of protein contact dermatitis and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis from occupational exposure to lactase in a pharmaceutical worker. The patient exhibited strong positive responses to lactase in prick tests. In an open application test, lactase elicited whealing, and in patch testing, lactase elicited an eczematous reaction. Serum lactase‐specific IgE antibodies were demonstrated in immunospot and radioallergosorbent test assays, and lactase‐IgE‐binding fractions and their specificities were examined in immunoblot and immunoblot inhibition assays. The chamber challenge test was performed to detect the association between lactase sensitization and rhinoconjunctival symptoms. Our results have confirmed the previous observations that lactase can induce occupational IgE‐mediated respiratory and conjunctival sensitizations, but they show that contact skin reactions caused by lactase may also occur.
‘Dermatologically tested’ baby toilet tissues: a cause of allergic contact dermatitis in adults
Authors: Timmermans An , De Hertog Sofie , Gladys Krzysztofa , Vanacker Hilde , Goossens An
Published: July 2007

We describe 4 adults with an allergic contact dermatitis for moist baby toilet tissues, being used either for their personal hygiene or for their babies (children). The allergen proved to be the preservative mixture of methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI). Allergic contact dermatitis from moist toilet paper has been infrequently reported but is probably not rare. The cases we describe here have been observed over a short period of 6 months. The question arises if the use of MCI/MI as a preservative, still often used in leave‐on products, should not be abandoned from cosmetics.
Tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 levels are increased in serum of patients with allergic contact dermatitis
Authors: Reduta Teresa , Laudańska Halina , Laudanski Piotr
Published: July 2007

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is an antigen‐specific, T‐cell‐mediated skin inflammatory disease. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) play a role in degradation of extracellular matrix and subsequent tissue remodelling during inflammatory process. The objective of this study was to examine a possible role of TIMP‐1 and MMP‐9 in the pathogenesis of ACD. The serum levels of MMP‐9 and TIMP‐1 have been measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in patients with disseminated ACD during exacerbation of skin lesions and the remission stage (n= 20) and were compared with healthy subjects (n= 20). The mean serum levels of TIMP‐1 were significantly higher in patients with ACD than in control group (42.8 ± 4.9 ng/ml). This difference was more prominent in patients with ACD during remission (69.01 ± 6.99 ng/ml, P < 0.0001) than in patients with exacerbation of disease (46.8 ± 3.6 ng/ml, P= 0.0054). Mean values of serum MMP‐9 did not differ significantly between patients with ACD, both in the acute and in the remission stage, compared with healthy persons (P= 0.76 and P= 0.29, respectively). TIMP‐1 might be involved in pathogenesis of ACD. It seems that moderately increased levels of TIMP‐1 could reflect degree of activity of skin inflammation, whereas markedly increased levels could contribute to the maintenance of the remission of disease.
Difficulties in avoiding exposure to allergens in cosmetics
Authors: Noiesen Eline , Munk Martin D. , Larsen Kristian , Johansen Jeanne Duus , Agner Tove
Published: July 2007

The aim of the study is to describe the ability of patients with allergic contact dermatitis to avoid exposure to allergens in cosmetics. The study is a questionnaire survey among 382 patients with contact allergy to preservatives and fragrances, included from 3 dermatological clinics. The questionnaire included questions about the level of difficulty in reading labels of ingredients on cosmetics and about patients’ strategies to avoid substances they were allergic to. It also included questions about eczema severity as well as about educational level. 46% of the patients found it difficult or extremely difficult to read the ingredient labelling of cosmetics, and this finding was significantly related to low educational level. Patients allergic to formaldehyde and methyldibromo glutaronitrile experienced the worst difficulties, while patients with fragrance allergy found ingredient label reading easier than patients with preservative allergy. Reading of ingredient labels is a major problem for patients with contact allergy to allergens in consumer products. It is a general problem for all patients and not restricted to a small group with multiple allergies.
T‐box factors: targeting to chromatin and interaction with the histone H3 N‐terminal tail
Authors: Demay Florence , Bilican Bilada , Rodriguez Mercedes , Carreira Suzanne , Pontecorvi Marco , Ling Yan , Goding Colin R.
Published: July 2007

T‐box transcription factors play a crucial role in development where they are implicated in patterning and cell fate decisions. Tbx2 and Tbx3 have also been implicated in several cancers including melanoma, and can act as antisenescence factors through their ability to repress p19ARF and p21CIP1 expression. Although several target genes for T‐box factors have been identified, it is unknown whether this family of proteins can bind chromatin, a property that would facilitate the epigenetic reprogramming that occurs in both development and cancer progression.

Here, we show that Tbx2 has the potential to recognize mitotic chromatin in a DNA‐dependent fashion, can interact specifically with the histone H3 N‐terminal tail, a property shared with Tbx4, Tbx5 and Tbx6, and can also recognize nucleosomal DNA, with binding to nucleosomes being antagonized by the presence of the histone tails. Strikingly, in vivo Tbx2 co‐localization with pericentric heterochromatin appears to be regulated and ectopic expression of Tbx2 leads to severe mitotic defects. Taken together our results suggest that Tbx2, and most likely other members of the T‐box family, are able to target chromatin and may indicate a role for the T‐box factors in epigenetic reprogramming events.
Intracellular Trafficking of Potato Leafroll VirusMovement Protein in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Vogel Florian , Hofius Daniel , Sonnewald Uwe
Published: July 2007

Intracellular trafficking of viral movement proteins (MPs) in plants has mainly been studied using Tobacco mosaic virusMP30 (TMV MP30) as a model system. Because of the limitations of TMV MP30 expression in Arabidopsis thaliana, these studies have mostly been restricted to tobacco plants. Here we present data on the analysis of transgenic Arabidopsisplants expressing Potato leafroll virus17‐kDa movement protein (MP17) fused to green fluorescent protein. MP17 localizes to secondary branched plasmodesmata (PD) in source but not to simple PD in sink tissues, where MP17 is believed to be degraded by proteolysis. To unravel the intracellular transport path of MP17, we analyzed the relevance of the cytoskeleton and of the secretory pathway on MP17 targeting. To this end, a new incubation system for in vivoanalysis of immediate and long‐term responses of whole Arabidopsisplants to inhibitor treatments was established. Microscopic and histochemical analysis showed that MP17 is targeted to PD in an actin‐ and endoplasmic reticulum–Golgi‐dependent manner. In contrast, degradation of MP17 in sink tissues required intact microtubules and occurred at 26S proteasomes. Interestingly, inhibition of the 26S proteasome led to aggregation of MP17 in aggresome‐like structures. Formation of these structures could be inhibited by colchicine, as was shown for aggresomes in mammalian cells.