bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using an oxidized porous silicon interferometer for determination of relative protein binding affinity through non‐covalent capture probe immobilization
Authors: Schwartz Michael P. , Yu Christine , Alvarez Sara D. , Migliori Benjamin , Godin Denis , Chao Lin , Sailor Michael J.
Published: April 2007

An oxidized porous Si interferometer was used to measure binding of immunoglobulin G (IgG) to an immobilized protein A capture probe. Protein A was non‐covalently immobilized on a thermally oxidized porous Si (PSiO2) sample and exposed to IgG originating from different species. The resulting order of IgG affinity toward the protein A‐coated surface (human > rabbit ≫ sheep IgG) agrees with previous inhibition studies for protein A/IgG binding. No signal change was observed when a protein A coated sample was exposed to bovine serum albumin (BSA), demonstrating that the adsorbed sensing layer sufficiently coats the PSiO2 surface to prevent non‐specific binding. This strategy is excellent for qualitative measurements of protein binding affinity because it is label‐free, requires minimal sample preparation, and can be implemented using an inexpensive CCD‐based spectrometer coupled to a tungsten lamp. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
An integrated vapor source with a porous silicon wick
Authors: Wallner J. Z. , Kunt K. S. , Obanionwu H. , Oborny M. C. , Bergstrom P. L. , Zellers E. T.
Published: April 2007

A micro vapor source has been developed for calibrating micro gas chromatograph (μGC) systems. By utilizing a porous silicon wick in a micro diffusion system, vapor generation with excellent stability has been achieved. The source has shown uniform and repeatable vapor generation for n‐decane with less than a 0.1% variation in 9 hours, and less than a 0.5% variation in rate over 7 days. The evolution rate follows the diffusion model as expected, although the room temperature rate is higher than theoretically predicted. Equipped with a refillable reservoir, this vapor source is suitable for extended μGC field deployment. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A porous silicon based particle filter for microsystems
Authors: Wallner J. Z. , Bergstrom P. L.
Published: April 2007

A porous silicon (PS) based particle filter has been fabricated and tested for integrated microsystems. By engineering the morphology of the porous silicon membrane, depth filtration with high collection efficiency in the submicron range (0.3∼1 μm), low pressure‐drop, and large filtration capacity (0.5 mg/cm2) has been demonstrated. With the PS particle filter, on‐board gas filtration can be achieved. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Rare earth ions in porous silicon: optical properties
Authors: Elhouichet H. , Oueslati M.
Published: April 2007

Porous silicon (PS) is doped with rare earth (RE) ions (Er, Eu, Tb) by electrochemical anodisation. The penetration of RE into the PS layer is confirmed by Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS) and by Energy Dispersive X‐ray (EDX) measurements. Efficient visible and infrared emissions were observed at room temperature. The activation temperatures of Eu, Tb and Er in PS are determined from the effect of thermal annealing on the photoluminescence (PL) intensity. From the evolution of the PL intensity versus temperature, it was found that a RE related level defect can be involved on the excitation and emission processes. Pump intensity dependent PL studies revealed that for the electrochemical incorporation, most of the RE ions are localized inside the Si nanocrystallites and not in stochiometric SiO2. The optical cross section is close to that of erbium in Si nanocrystallites. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Betavoltaic and photovoltaic energy conversion in three‐dimensional macroporous silicon diodes
Authors: Clarkson J. P. , Sun W. , Hirschman K. D. , Gadeken L. L. , Fauchet P. M.
Published: April 2007

A three‐dimensional p–n diode structure is presented for the generation of energy via photovoltaic and betavoltaic modes of operation. Macroporous Silicon (MPS) has a large degree of internal surface area and its vertically oriented pores, which extend deep into the bulk of the Si substrate, allow for the creation of three‐dimensional structures. In this device the MPS will not only serve as a means for creating 3D diode structures, it will also serve as a host matrix for a tritium isotope which emits energetic beta particles. By varying electrochemical etching conditions and using a prepatterning technique, 1.1 μm diameter pores with a spacing of 2.5 μm were achieved. The p–n junction was created using a rapid thermal process (RTP) which relies on the diffusion from an n‐type solid source into the MPS. To ensure the quality of the diode structure, devices were tested using a light source which resulted in a photovoltaic response. Finally, betavoltaic operation was demonstrated by exposing devices to a tritium gas source. The average energy conversion efficiency of the first generation 3D diode was one order of magnitude higher than that of a similar planar device. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Implementation of an adaptive group sequential design in a bioequivalence study
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Nibedita , Dragalin Vladimir
Published: April 2007

The study design was a multi‐center, multiple‐dose, randomized, open‐label, 2 × 2 crossover study in patients with advanced solid tumors. Each patient was randomized to receive the test formulation or the reference formulation of the drug. The primary objective of the study was to demonstrate the bioequivalence of the test formulation T relative to the reference formulation R. The primary pharmacokinetic endpoints were AUC and Cmax. Since there were different bioequivalence criteria, different endpoints, with different and highly variable coefficients of variation, an adaptive design with a stopping rule for early establishing the bioequivalence as well as early stopping for futility with a flexible information‐based monitoring based on error spending approach was implemented to manage uncertainty in assumptions of variability and expected slow enrollment rates. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clean Synthesis in Water: Uncatalyzed Three‐Component Condensation Reaction of 3‐Amino‐1,2,4‐triazole or 2‐Aminobenzimidazole with Aldehyde in the Presence of Activated CH‐Acids
Authors: Shaabani Ahmad , Rahmati Abbas , Rezayan Ali Hossein , Darvishi Mariya , Badri Zahra , Sarvari Afshin
Published: April 2007

An environment‐friendly three‐component condensation of 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole or 2‐aminobenzimidazole, an aldehyde and activated CH‐acid such as β‐dicarbonyl compounds and malononitrile, affords the corresponding pyrimidine‐based annulated di‐ and triheterocyclic ring systems. Reactions are performed in water, without the addition of catalyst, and in good yield.
A Quantitative Approach to the Estimation of Chemical Space from a Given Geometry by the Combination of Atomic Species
Authors: Ogata Koji , Isomura Tetsu , Yamashita Hiroshi , Kubodera Hideo
Published: April 2007

In order to estimate the size of chemical spaces, a quantitative approach was employed consisting of summing all possible combinations of atomic species generated computationally for a given three‐dimensional geometry. The atomic species were comprised of heavy atoms (N, C, O, S and Cl) and various numbers of H atoms (e.g., CH3 and CH2 groups). The assignment of atomic species to a given geometry maintained consistent bond orders between adjacent atoms. Between 108 and 1019 compounds were generated from individual geometries. A slightly smaller number of compounds were obtained by applying a nonleadlikeness filter that considered the properties of the substituents. Principal component analysis using descriptors representing the molecular structures and properties revealed that the compounds generated from only one geometry largely covered the chemical space of known compounds. Moreover, the compounds with the best scores, defined as the interaction energies between the compounds and the protein, contained original ones within the entire collection of compounds generated from the same geometry. This method can be used to improve the scaffold of compound structures during drug development.
Comparative Classical QSAR Modeling of Anti‐HIV Thiocarbamates
Authors: Leonard Joseph Thomas , Roy Kunal
Published: April 2007

The present Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationships (QSAR) study attempts to explore the structural and physicochemical requirements ofO‐[2‐(phthalimido)ethyl]‐substituted‐phenylthiocarbamates for cytoprotection data from MT‐4‐based assays using a Linear Free Energy Related (LFER) model of Hansch. QSAR models have been developed using electronic (Hammettσ), hydrophobicity (π) and steric (molar refractivity and STERIMOLL, B1, and B5) parameters of phenyl ring substituents of the compounds along with appropriate dummy variables. Statistical techniques like stepwise regression, Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) with Factor Analysis (FA) as the data preprocessing step (FA‐MLR), Partial Least Squares (PLS), Principal Component Regression (PCR), Multiple Linear Regression with Genetic Function Approximation (GFA‐MLR) and Genetic Partial Least Squares (G/PLS) model were applied to identify the structural and physicochemical requirements for the cytoprotection activity. The generated equations were statistically validated using leave‐one‐out technique. The quality of equations obtained from these techniques were of acceptable statistical qualities (explained variance ranging from 57.7 to 75.9%, while predicted variance ranging from 53.2 to 68.5%), while the best model came from the PLS technique. The PLS equation with variables selected based on standardized regression coefficients show explained and predicted variances of 75.9 and 68.1%, respectively, and the G/PLS explained and predicted variances of 75.1 and 68.5%, respectively, of the cytoprotection activity data. Both stepwise regression and GFA derived models show high intercorrelation among predictor variables used in the equations, while the FA‐MLR derived model has comparatively lower statistical quality. The best models were also subjected to leave‐25%‐out crossvalidation. The results of the present QSAR study are in agreement with the observations of the previously reported docking experiment of thiocarbamate derivatives.
A genomic view of TGF‐β signal transduction in an invertebrate deuterostome organism and lessons from the functional analyses of Nodal and BMP2/4 during sea urchin development
Authors: Lapraz François , Duboc Véronique , Lepage Thierry
Published: April 2007

Echinoderms are marine invertebrates but are phylogenetically much more related to the chordates, to which we belong, than are other invertebrate model organisms like Drosophila or C. elegans. The recently available sequence of the sea urchin genome offers an opportunity to draw an inventory of the developmental genes represented in a non‐chordate deuterostome and to compare this complement with that present in vertebrates and other invertebrates. In the first part of this review, we draw an inventory of the genes acting in the TGF‐β signal transduction pathway and describe the sea urchin complement of ligands, receptors, Smads, extracellular modulators and transcriptional regulators present in the genome of the purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus. In the second part of this review, we describe the results of recent studies addressing the function of some of these TGF‐β during sea urchin embryogenesis. Finally, we discuss hypotheses regarding a possible ancestral function of the Nodal/Lefty signalling pathway in deuterostomes.
Asymptotic and discrete concepts for optimal control in radiative transfer
Authors: Herty M. , Pinnau R. , Thömmes G.
Published: April 2007

Optimal control problems for the radiative transfer equation and for approximate models are considered. Following the approach first discretize, then optimize, the discrete SPN approximations are for the first time derived exactly and used for the study of optimal control based on reduced order models. Moreover, combining asymptotic analysis and the adjoint calculus yields diffusion‐type approximations for the adjoint radiative transport equation in the spirit of the approach first optimize, then discretize.
New data on kimberlite magmatism in southwestern Angola
Authors: Egorov K.N. , Roman’ko E.F. , Podvysotsky V.T. , Sablukov S.M. , Garanin V.K. , D’yakonov D.B.
Published: April 2007

First data on the geologic and geochemical compositions of kimberlites from nine kimberlite pipes of southwestern Angola are presented. In the north of the study area, there are the Chikolongo and Chicuatite kimberlite pipes; in the south, a bunch of four Galange pipes (I–IV); and in the central part, the Ochinjau, Palue, and Viniaty pipes. By geochemical parameters, these rocks are referred to as classical kimberlites: They bear mantle inclusions of ultrabasites, eclogites, various barophilic minerals (including ones of diamond facies), and diamonds. The kimberlite pipes are composed of petrographically diverse rocks: tuffstones, tuff breccias, kimberlite breccias, autolithic kimberlite breccias, and massive porphyritic kimberlites. In mineralogical, petrographic, and geochemical compositions the studied kimberlites are most similar to group I kimberlites of South Africa and Fe-Ti-kimberlites of the Arkhangel’sk diamondiferous province. Comparison of the mineralogical compositions of kimberlites from southwestern Angola showed that the portion of mantle (including diamondiferous) material of depth facies in kimberlite pipes regularly increases in the S-N direction. The northern diamond-bearing kimberlite pipes are localized in large destructive zones of NE strike, and the central and southern diamond-free pipes, in faults of N-S strike.
Results of research into Holocene sediments of the South and Central basins of Lake Baikal (BDP-97 and short cores)
Authors: Vologina E.G. , Kashik S.A. , Sturm M. , Vorob’eva S.S. , Lomonosova T.K. , Kalashnikova I.A. , Khramtsova T.I. , Toshchakov S.Yu.
Published: April 2007

Results of investigations of Baikal bottom sediments from a long core (BDP-97) and several short (0–1 m) cores are presented. It has been shown that the Holocene sediments in the Baikal basins consist of biogenic-terrigenous muds, accumulated under calm sedimentation conditions, and of turbidites, formed during catastrophic events. The turbidites can be distinguished from the host sediments by their enrichment in heavy minerals and thus their high magnetic susceptibility. Often, Pliocene and Pleistocene diatom species observed in the Holocene sediments (mainly in the turbidites) point to redeposition of ancient offshore sediments. Our results indicate that deltas, littoral zones, and continental slopes are the source areas of turbidites. The fact that the turbidites occur far from their sources confirms the existence of high-energy turbidity currents responsible for long-distance lateral-sediment transport to the deep basin planes of the lake.
Application of geological and petromagnetic methods to facies-genetic division of subaerial deposits in the Ob’ region near Novosibirsk (Ogurtsovo key section)
Authors: Zhdanova A.I. , Kazansky A.Yu. , Zol’nikov I.D. , Matasova G.G. , Gus’kov S.A.
Published: April 2007

The Ogurtsovo section, one of the key sections of the Ob’ region near Novosibirsk, has been comprehensively studied using a detailed geological description of deposits, granulometric and petromagnetic analyses. The combined methods allowed us not only to interpret the geologic structure of the Ogurtsovo section in terms of its facies and genesis but also to refine and supplement the Pleistocene geologic history of the region. Emphasis was placed upon relationships between granulometric and petromagnetic parameters. As a result, we have revealed regularities in the behavior of magnetic characteristics and their relationships as a function of granulometry in different lithogenetic types of deposits. On the example of this key section, criteria are proposed for distinguishing facies of the subaerial complex by analytical methods.
Bottom temperature monitoring in Lake Baikal
Authors: Duchkov A.D. , Kazantsev S.A. , Duchkov A.A.
Published: April 2007

We report results of bottom temperature monitoring of 2003–2004 in the deepwater South Baikal basin (Lake Baikal) near active gas-fluid methane vents at lake depths of 1020 and 1350 m. Sediments and water temperatures were measured using an autonomous temperature recorder designed at the Institute of Geophysics (Novosibirsk). Experiments implied short-duration recording and pioneering continuous 350 day-long monitoring near the Staryi vent. Measurements within a 1 m thick layer above and below the bottom showed notable variations in water (up to 0.07 °C) and sediment temperatures and in geothermal gradient. The long temperature records include a relatively steady period (mid-June 2003-early February 2004) with smooth temperature variations (especially in sediments) and two transient unsteady periods. The steady season is the best time for heat flow studies in the South Baikal basin. The 0.04–0.05 °C drop in bottom water temperature during the unsteady periods may result from intrusion of cold surface water. A positive temperature anomaly of ∼0.04 °C recorded in April 2003 may be caused, among other reasons, by active gas venting.
A morphotectonic study of the Central System, Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Cotilla M.O. , Córdoba D. , Herraiz M.
Published: April 2007

The Central System (CS) or Spanish Central System forms part of two of the five morphotectonic mesoblocks that make up the Intermediate macroblock (number 6) of the Iberian plate. The combination of geological, geophysical and geomorphological data, used in accordance with the Rantsman methodology (1979), served as the basis for obtaining a regional analysis. The cartography obtained shows territorial units (4 macroblocks, 4 mesoblocks, 35 blocks, 85 microblocks and 162 nanoblocks), morphotectonic alignments (quantity/order: 3/2, 4/3, 5/23, 6/48, 7/93 and 8/164) and morphotectonic knots (quantity/order: 1/2, 5/3, 35/4, 85/5, 162/6, 324/7, 816/8). The number of delimited morphostructures increases from the central part towards the east. At the block level, one may distinguish a transverse differentiation of the territorial units and alignments, which is interpreted as an expression of the region’s lithospheric heterogeneity. There is a close relationship between the morphostructures and seismicity, indicating that greater activity occurs in the blocks of the eastern and northeastern sectors.
Folate deficiency during pregnancy impacts on methyl metabolism without affecting global DNA methylation in the rat fetus
Authors: Maloney Christopher A. , Hay Susan M. , Rees William D.
Published: April 2007

The methionine cycle and methyl group metabolism are implicated in the long-term programming of metabolism. Diets deficient in folic acid, methionine and choline have been fed to pregnant rats to examine the effects on amino acid metabolism, choline reserves and DNA methylation in dam and fetuses. Animals were fed folate-deficient, folate-deficient with low methionine, folate-deficient with low choline and folate-deficient, low-methionine, low-choline diets starting 2 weeks before mating. The dams and their fetuses were subsequently killed on day 21 of gestation for analysis. Diets low in methionine reduced fetal and maternal weight. Folate deficiency increased the concentrations of homocysteine, glycine, serine and threonine in the maternal plasma, and this was exacerbated by the low-methionine diets. The changes in the amino acid profile in the fetal serum were similar but less pronounced. This result suggests that fetal metabolism was less perturbed. Folate deficiency increased free choline in the maternal liver at the expense of phosphocholine stores. It has been suggested that a deficiency in methyl donors in the diet during pregnancy may impact on key methylation reactions, including the methylation of DNA. Despite widespread changes in the metabolism of choline and amino acids, there was no change in the global methylation of cytosine in DNA from either maternal or fetal livers. This suggests a more indirect mechanism in which gene–nutrient interactions modify the process of differential methylation during development
Administration ofLactobacillusevokes coordinated changes in the intestinal expression profile of genes regulating energy homeostasis and immune phenotype in mice
Authors: Nerstedt Annika , Nilsson Elisabeth C. , Ohlson Kajsa , Håkansson Janet , Thomas Svensson L. , Löwenadler Björn , Svensson Ulla K. , Mahlapuu Margit
Published: April 2007

Lactic acid bacteria are probiotics widely used in functional food products, with a variety of beneficial effects reported. Recently, intense research has been carried out to provide insight into the mechanism of the action of probiotic bacteria. We have used gene array technology to map the pattern of changes in the global gene expression profile of the host caused byLactobacillusadministration. Affymetrix microarrays were applied to comparatively characterize differences in gene transcription in the distal ileum of normal microflora (NMF) and germ-free (GF) mice evoked by oral administration of twoLactobacillusstrains used in fermented dairy products today –Lactobacillus paracaseissp.paracaseiF19 (L. F19) orLactobacillus acidophilusNCFB 1748. We show that feeding either of the two strains caused very similar effects on the transcriptional profile of the host. BothL. F19 andL. acidophilusNCFB 1748 evoked a complex response in the gut, reflected by differential regulation of a number of genes involved in essential physiological functions such as immune response, regulation of energy homeostasis and host defence. Notably, the changes in intestinal gene expression caused byLactobacilluswere different in the mice raised under GFv.NMF conditions, underlying the complex and dynamic nature of the host-commensal relationship. Differential expression of an array of genes described in this report evokes novel hypothesis of possible interactions between the probiotic bacteria and the host organism and warrants further studies to evaluate the functional significance of these transcriptional changes on the metabolic profile of the host.
Induction of altered epigenetic regulation of the hepatic glucocorticoid receptor in the offspring of rats fed a protein-restricted diet during pregnancy suggests that reduced DNA methyltransferase-1 expression is involved in impaired DNA methylation and changes in histone modifications
Authors: Lillycrop Karen A. , Slater-Jefferies Jo L. , Hanson Mark A. , Godfrey Keith M. , Jackson Alan A. , Burdge Graham C.
Published: April 2007

Prenatal nutritional constraint induces an altered metabolic phenotype in the offspring which in humans confers an increased risk of non-communicable disease. Feeding a protein-restricted (PR) diet to pregnant rats causes hypomethylation of specific gene promoters in the offspring and alters the phenotype. We investigated how altered epigenetic regulation of the hepatic glucocorticoid receptor (GR) 110promoter is induced in the offspring. Rats were fed a control (180 g casein/kg) or a PR (90 g casein/kg) diet throughout pregnancy, and chow during lactation. Offspring were killed at postnatal day 34 (n5 per maternal dietary group). Methylation-sensitive PCR showed that GR110promoter methylation was 33 % lower (P < 0·001) and GR expression 84 % higher (P < 0·05) in the PR offspring. Reverse transcription–PCR showed that DNA methyltransferase-1 (Dnmt1) expression was 17 % lower (P < 0·05) in PR offspring, while Dnmt3a/b and methyl binding domain protein-2 expression was not altered. Thus hypomethylation of the GR110promoter may result from lower capacity to methylate hemimethylated DNA during mitosis. Histone modifications which facilitate transcription were increased at the GR110promoter (147–921 %,P < 0·001), while those that suppress methylation were decreased (54 %,P < 0·01) or similar to controls. In human umbilical cord (n15), there was a 2-fold difference between the highest and lowest level of GR1-CTotalpromoter methylation. Dnmt1, but not Dnmt3a, expression predicted 49 % (P = 0·003) of the variation in GR1-CTotalpromoter methylation. These findings suggest that induction in the offspring of altered epigenetic regulation of the hepatic GR110promoter, and hence metabolic phenotype, may be due to reduced Dnmt1 expression.
Empirically derived major dietary patterns and their associations with overweight in Korean preschool children
Authors: Shin Kyung Ok , Oh Se-Young , Park Hyun Suh
Published: April 2007

Prevailing dietary patterns and their association with nutritional outcomes are poorly understood, particularly for children in Korea. Our purposes were to identify major dietary patterns and to examine their associations with overweight among young children in Korea. For 1441 preschool children, usual diet was assessed by a FFQ, from which thirty-three food groups were created and entered into a factor analysis. We identified three dietary patterns by relative intake frequency of (1) vegetables, seaweeds, beans, fruits, milk and dairy products (Korean healthy pattern); (2) beef, pork, poultry, fish and fast foods (animal foods pattern); and (3) ice cream, soda, chocolate, cookies and candies (sweets pattern). The Korean healthy pattern was associated with better health status. As compared with the lowest quintile, the multivariate-adjusted OR of the highest quintile for health status inferior or similar to their peers was 0·59 (95 % CI 0·42, 0·84). Likelihood of being overweight was higher among those in the highest quintile (OR 1·77 (95 % CI 1·06, 2·94)) v. the lowest quintile regarding the animal foods pattern. These findings suggest that major dietary patterns are predictors of overweight and health status in Korean preschool children.
Tracking of fruit and vegetable consumption from adolescence into adulthood and its longitudinal association with overweight
Authors: te Velde Saskia J. , Twisk Jos W. R. , Brug Johannes
Published: April 2007

The objective of the present study was to assess to what extent fruit and vegetable intakes track over a 24-year time period and to assess longitudinal associations between fruit and vegetable intakes and (change in) BMI and sum of skinfolds. Dietary intake and anthropometrics were repeatedly assessed for 168 men and women between the ages of 12 and 36 years. Linear general estimating equations analyses were applied (1) to estimate tracking coefficients, (2) to estimate predictability for meeting the national recommendation for fruit and vegetable intake and for being in the highest quartile for fruit and vegetable intake, and (3) to estimate the association between fruit and vegetable intake and BMI and sum of skinfolds. We found that tracking coefficients were 0·33 (P < 0·001) for fruit intake and 0·27 (P < 0·001) for vegetable intake. Mean fruit intake decreased over a 24-year period. For fruit intake, predictability was higher in men than in women (OR 6·02 (P < 0·001) and 2·33 (P = 0·001) for meeting the recommendation for men and women respectively). After adjustment, fruit intake was not associated with BMI, but being in the lowest quartile of fruit intake was significantly associated with a lower sum of skinfolds. Women in the lowest quartiles of vegetable intake had significantly higher BMI and sum of skinfolds and also greater positive changes in these parameters. In conclusion, tracking and predictability for fruit and vegetable intake appear to be low to moderate, which might indicate that fruit and vegetable promotion should be started at an early age and continued into adulthood. Despite the fact that we only observed beneficial weight-maintaining effects of vegetable intake in women, promoting vegetables is important for both sexes because of other positive properties of vegetables. No evidence was found for promoting fruit intake as a means of weight maintenance.
Water column euxinia and wildfire evidence during deposition of the Upper Famennian Hangenberg event horizon from the Holy Cross Mountains (central Poland)
Authors: MARYNOWSKI LESZEK , FILIPIAK PAWEŁ
Published: April 2007

A palynological study of the uppermost Famennian section from Kowala Quarry (Holy Cross Mountains, central Poland) allowed recognition of two miospore zones: LV (Retispora lepidophyta–Apiculiretusispora verrucosa) and LN (Retispora lepidophyta–Verrucosisporites nitidus). Based on palynology and sedimentology, the black shale within the upper part of the section is identified as equivalent to the Hangenberg Black Shale, which is known globally. This black shale contains compounds characteristic of photic zone euxinia, including isorenieratane and its derivatives. Such compounds are absent in the organic-poor marls and shales occurring below the LN Zone, and are present only as traces in the layers just above the black shale, indicating fluctuations in the oxygen minimum zone during uppermost Famennian sedimentation. Palynofacies show high amounts of amorphous organic matter and prasinophyte concentrations in the black shale, and a subsequent significant decrease of amorphous organic matter concomitant with a rapid increase of terrestrial input (mainly miospores with common tetrads) in the layers above the black shale. This supports the relatively rapid change in the taxonomic composition of phytoplankton caused by fluctuations of the chemocline. The whole succession corresponds to one sea-level rise and fall. The presence of high concentrations of peri-condensed polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and large amounts of small charcoal particles at the Hangenberg event horizon indicate the occurrence of wildfires. Such observations suggest that atmospheric O22 levels had exceeded the critical threshold of 13 %, above which wildfires may occur, by latest Famennian time.
Palynological evidence for late Westphalian–early Stephanian vegetation change in the Dobrudzha Coalfield, NE Bulgaria
Authors: DIMITROVA TATIANA KH. , CLEAL CHRISTOPHER J.
Published: April 2007

The Dobrudzha Coalfield in northeast Bulgaria has coal-bearing deposits ranging from latest Namurian to early Stephanian age (late Bashkirian to Moscovian age). Palynology of the coals in the upper Makedonka, Krupen and Gurkovo formations has been used to identify major changes in the vegetation during late Westphalian and early Stephanian times. The palynomorphs were grouped in two different ways (according to general morphotype and according to parent plant group) and stratigraphical trends in the two sets of groups used to identify vegetation change through the succession. Detrended Correspondence Analysis was also used to identify ecological relationships between the palynofloras. In the upper Makedonka and Krupen formations, lycophyte spores mostly comprise 15–25 % of the palynofloras in the thicker seams, but in the thinner coals they can represent up to 55 %. Of the other plant groups, ferns are the most abundant, representing 31–69 % in the thicker seams, 12–41 % in the thinner seams. This suggests that the arborescent lycophytes were mainly restricted to pioneer vegetation in these upland areas, and were replaced by ferns as the peat substrates became better developed, suggesting better-drained conditions. The thinner seams also have a noticeable component of sphenophyll spores, indicating significant areas of open conditions allowing colonization by these scrambling plants. In the Gurkovo Formation coals, lycophytes form an even smaller part of the palynological spectra, usually less than 10 % and in only one sample just over 25 %; fern spores make up 43–57 % of the palynofloras. This is in contrast to the palynofloras reported from contemporaneous clastic deposits in South Wales, most of which consist mostly of 34–60 % lycophyte spores and 14–34 % fern spores. Even more marked is the difference from the contemporaneous coals formed in lowland settings in the USA, which have mostly > 50 % lycophyte spores. This evidence suggests that the timing of the decline in abundance of arborescent lycophytes varied according to elevation above sea-level. In lowland coastal settings, the lycophytes remained dominant until middle–late Cantabrian times, but in more inland areas they were progressively replaced mainly by arborescent ferns during late Westphalian times.
Phytogeography of Asturian (Westphalian D) lycophytes throughout the Euramerican belt of coalfields
Authors: THOMAS BARRY A.
Published: April 2007

A summary is given of the lycophyte species as distributed in fifteen Euramerican coalfields during Asturian (Westphalian D) times. The datasets from the coalfields are analysed using unweighted pair group cluster analyses of Jaccard's Coefficients. Separate analyses were done on the full dataset (the full list of morphospecies) and on a more restricted dataset (only the morphospecies of vegetative organs). Three groupings of coalfields were resolved in the analyses. The two most clearly defined groupings represented the intramontane basin coalfields, and the coalfields of the lowland basins on the Variscan foreland where the lycophyte floras are well documented. The third grouping included those basins with less well-studied lycophyte floras, where the apparently low species diversity has undoubtedly affected the results. More work is needed on these poorly documented floras to produce a more rigorous phytogeographical analysis.
The stratigraphical potential of blattodean insects from the late Carboniferous of southern Britain
Authors: JARZEMBOWSKI ED A. , SCHNEIDER JÖRG W.
Published: April 2007

The Blattodea (cockroaches sensu lato or roachoids) from the southern coalfields of the UK are reviewed or examined, especially species occurring in more than one coal basin including Mylacris abrupta (Bolton, 1930) comb. nov., and undescribed material from Writhlington (Somerset). It is proposed that a derived mylacrid Mylacris–Sooblatta assemblage is used to extend the latest Westphalian and earliest Stephanian insect zonation from the continent to southern Britain, thus augmenting the European Pennsylvanian scheme.
Maxillary sinus haematoma
Authors: Lim M , Lew-Gor S , Beale T , Ramsay A , Lund V J
Published: April 2007

The maxillary sinus haematoma is an uncommon cause of a maxillary sinus mass. It presents with a variety of symptoms, the most common being epistaxis. Although histologically benign, it may be clinically progressive. Radiological findings can range from a benign appearance to a more aggressive process, including bony erosion. Surgical evacuation is the mainstay of therapy. We describe our experience in managing this condition and review available literature on the subject.
Magnetosonic solitons in space plasmas: dark or bright solitons?
Authors: POKHOTELOV O. A. , ONISHCHENKO O.G. , BALIKHIN M. A. , STENFLO L. , SHUKLA P. K.
Published: April 2007

The nonlinear theory of large-amplitude magnetosonic (MS) waves in highβ space plasmas is revisited. It is shown that solitary waves can exist in the form of ‘bright’ or ‘dark’ solitons in which the magnetic field is increased or decreased relative to the background magnetic field. This depends on the shape of the equilibrium ion distribution function. The basic parameter that controls the nonlinear structure is the wave dispersion, which can be either positive or negative. A general dispersion relation for MS waves propagating perpendicularly to the external magnetic field in a plasma with an arbitrary velocity distribution function is derived.It takes into account general plasma equilibria, such as the Dory–Guest–Harris (DGH) or Kennel–Ashour-Abdalla (KA) loss-cone equilibria, as well as distributions with a power-law velocity dependence that can be modelled by κdistributions. It is shown that in a bi-Maxwellian plasma the dispersion is negative, i.e. the phase velocity decreases with an increase of the wavenumber. This means that the solitary solution in this case has the form of a ‘bright’ soliton with the magnetic field increased. On the contrary, in some non-Maxwellian plasmas, such as those with ring-type ion distributions or DGH plasmas, the solitary solution may have the form of a magnetic hole. The results of similar investigations based on nonlinear Hall–MHD equations are reviewed. The relevance of our theoretical results to existing satellite wave observations is outlined.
Escapism and luck
Authors: JONES RUSSELL E.
Published: April 2007

I argue that the problem of religious luck posed by Zagzebski poses a problem for the theory of hell proposed by Buckareff and Plug, according to which God adopts an open-door policy toward those in hell. Though escapism is not open to many of the criticisms Zagzebski raises against potential solutions to the problem of luck, escapism fails to solve the problem: it merely pushes luck forward into the afterlife. I suggest a hybrid solution to the problem which combines escapism and the claim that God gives enough grace to those in hell to cancel out any bad moral luck.
Murdochian humility
Authors: MILLIGAN TONY
Published: April 2007

The following paper sets out a view of humility that is derived from Iris Murdoch but which differs from a strict Murdochian approach in two important respects. Firstly, any association with self-abnegation is removed; and secondly, the value of a limited form of pride (recognition pride) is affirmed. The paper is nevertheless strongly continuous with her work, in the sense that it builds upon her rejection of universalizability on the specific grounds that we have varying moral competences. A liberal commitment to equality should not be allowed to spill out of the political domain. We are not all equal when it comes to the demands of morality. Humility is treated as a just discernment of our own limited moral competences. As such, it is a recognition of our particularity and not a form of radical self-effacement.
Nietzsche and the murder of God
Authors: HAMILTON CHRISTOPHER
Published: April 2007

Nietzsche's tortured relationship to the Christian God has received scant attention from commentators. In this paper I seek to map out the central lines a proper understanding of Nietzsche in this regard might take. I argue that fundamental in such an understanding is Nietzsche's profoundly corporeal moral vocabulary, and I trace connections between this vocabulary and Nietzsche's concern with cleanliness, his asceticism, and the notion of a sense of common humanity with others.
VINKO GLOBOKAR: REVALUING A PHENOMENON
Authors: Warnaby John
Published: April 2007

Despite the characteristic scepticism that British audiences reserve for musicians who cultivate more than one discipline, Vinko Globokar can be considered a phenomenon. Yet reasons can be adduced for his remarkable versatility. His jazz background has proved invaluable in his collaborations with exponents of free jazz and other improvising collectives. Improvisation has also been used as an educational tool. His close ties with Austro-German, French and Italian composition have given him significant insights into their historical development. Finally, his Slavonic origins have given him a unique view of the Western tradition, while heightening his awareness of various cultural, political and social problems, notably exile and alienation.
A COMPOSER IN AFRICA: AN INTERVIEW WITH STEFANS GROVÉ
Authors: Muller Stephanus
Published: April 2007

South African composer Stefans Grové celebrates his eighty-fifth birthday this year. Grové studied under Erik Chisholm in Cape Town, took his Master's at Harvard under Walter Piston and attended Aaron Copland's composition class at the Tanglewood Summer School. He taught for over a decade at the Peabody Institute in Baltimore before returning to South Africa in 1972. He is Composer in Residence at the University of Pretoria.
COLLABORATION AND THE COMPOSER: CASE STUDIES FROM THE END OF THE 2OTH CENTURY
Authors: Hayden Sam , Windsor Luke
Published: April 2007

The folk view of composition is often that of an isolated, possibly unhinged genius, struggling alone at the piano or desk. However, in this article we will investigate the collaborative aspects of compositional life, showing how such an individualistic model of the composer is both accurate and inaccurate, and how this paradox is played out in current attempts to valorize collaborative work in composition. Although we intend some of the observations and conclusions from this article to generalize, we are fully aware that such a case-study can only really be illustrative and provocative. Given that this is the case we will finish by attempting to make some general points about the aesthetic and social contradictions which this study has brought to light. Our concern in this article is more prospective than retrospective: although we will refer to some historical data, we aim to reflect mainly on contemporary compositional practice in the West, and particularly the UK.
THE PROBLEMATIC NATURE OF HINDEMITH'S ‘DAS UNAUFHÖRLICHE’: A CRITICAL RESPONSE
Authors: Rothe Alexander
Published: April 2007

The year 1930 marked the end of a brief artistic collaboration between the composer Paul Hindemith and the playwright Bertolt Brecht. This collaboration, which began in 1929, brought forth the 1929 Lehrstück and Der Lindberghflug, the latter also involving the contributions of Kurt Weill. However, this artistic relationship, which from its outset was on borrowed time, quickly deteriorated as the result of a heated disagreement regarding the 1930 Schott score of Lehrstück. In the score's preface Hindemith stressed the adaptability of the work according to the circumstances of the performers. The confrontational Brecht felt offended for what he perceived to be the subordination of his text to purely musical aims. Further, Brecht and Hindemith quarrelled on the goal underlying the didactic Lehrstück. Hindemith approached the work as a means to propagate his ideas regarding a modern audience (Laienmusik – or ‘music for the laymen’) and the new musical conventions of a Gebrauchsmusik (a complex concept developed later in the discourse).
Methodology of constructive technology assessment in health care
Authors: Douma Kirsten F. L. , Karsenberg Kim , Hummel Marjan J. M. , Bueno-de-Mesquita Jolien M. , van Harten Wim H.
Published: April 2007

Objectives: Technologies in health care are evolving quickly, with new findings in the area of biotechnological and genetic research being published regularly. A health technology assessment (HTA) is often used to answer the question of whether the new technology should be implemented into clinical practice. International evidence confirms that the results of HTA research sometimes have limited impact on practical implementation and on coverage decisions; the study design is commonly based on the paradigm of stability of both the technology and the environment, which is often not the case. Constructive technology assessment (CTA) was first described in the 1980s. In addition to the traditional HTA elements, this approach also takes into account the technology dynamics by emphasizing sociodynamic processes. With a CTA approach, comprehensive assessment can be combined with an intentional influence in a favorable direction to improve quality.

Methods: In this study, the methodological aspects mainly concerning the diagnostic use of CTA are explained. The methodology will be illustrated using the controlled introduction of a new technology, called microarray analysis, into the clinical practice of breast cancer treatment as a case study. Attention is paid to the operationalization of the phases of development and implementation and the research methods most appropriate for CTA.

Conclusions: In addition to HTA, CTA can be used as a complementary approach, especially in technologies that are introduced in an early stage of development in a controlled way.
Cost-effectiveness of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair: A systematic review
Authors: Jonk Yvonne C. , Kane Robert L. , Lederle Frank A. , MacDonald Roderick , Cutting Andrea H. , Wilt Timothy J.
Published: April 2007

Objectives:A systematic review of the cost-effectiveness of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair was conducted. Although open surgery has been considered the gold standard for prevention of AAA rupture, emerging less-invasive endovascular treatments have led to increased interest in evaluating the cost and cost-effectiveness of treatment options.

Methods:A systematic review of studies published in MEDLINE between 1999 and 2005 reporting the cost and/or cost-effectiveness of endovascular and/or open surgical repair of nonruptured AAAs was conducted. Case series studies with less than fifty patients per treatment were excluded.

Results:Of twenty eligible articles, three were randomized controlled trials, twelve case series, four Markov models, and one systematic review. Regardless of time frame, all studies found that endovascular repair costs more than open surgery. Although the high cost of the endovascular prosthesis was partially offset by reduced intensive care, hospital length of stay, operating time, blood transfusions, and perioperative complications, hospital costs were still greater for endovascular than open surgical repair. For patients medically fit for open surgery, mid-term costs were greater for endovascular repair with no difference in overall survival or quality of life. For patients medically unfit for open surgery, endovascular repair costs more than no intervention with no difference in survival.

Conclusions:Although conclusions regarding the cost-effectiveness of AAA treatment options are time dependent and vary by institutional perspective, from a societal perspective, endovascular repair is not currently cost-effective for patients with large AAA regardless of medical fitness.
Using the literature to quantify the learning curve: A case study
Authors: Cook Jonathan A. , Ramsay Craig R. , Fayers Peter
Published: April 2007

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess whether a literature review of a technology can allow a learning curve to be quantified.

Methods: The literature for fiberoptic intubation was searched for studies reporting information relevant to the learning curve. The Cochrane Library, Medline, Embase, and Science Citation index were searched. Studies that reported a procedure time were included. Data were abstracted on the three features of learning: initial level, rate of learning, and asymptote level. Random effects meta-analysis was performed.

Results: Only twenty-one studies gave explicit information concerning the previous experience of the operator(s). There were thirty-two different definitions of procedure time. From four studies of fiberoptic nasotracheal intubation, the mean starting level and time for the 10th procedure was estimated to be 133 seconds (95 percent confidence interval, 113–153) and 71 seconds (95 percent confidence interval, 62–79), respectively.

Conclusions: The review approach allowed learning to be quantified for our example technology. Poor and insufficient reporting constrained formal statistical estimation. Standardized reporting of nondrug techniques with adequate learning curve details is needed to inform trial design and cost-effectiveness analysis.