bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermoreflectance microscopy applied to the study of electrostatic discharge degradation in metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors
Authors: de Freitas L. R. , da Silva E. C. , Mansanares A. M. , Pimentel M. B. C. , Eleutério Filho S. , Batista J. A.
Published: May 2005

We investigated the effect of electrostatic discharge on n-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors using the thermoreflectance microscopy. The gate terminals of the transistors were submitted to electrostatic pulses on a zap system that respects the human body model. The pulse intensity varied from 40to140V in a cumulative sequence. Electrical characterization showed that the transistor threshold voltage was no longer positive for pulses of 110V and higher. No significant changes in the thermoreflectance maps were observed in these cases. For pulses of 140V a large leakage current appeared, and the thermoreflectance maps revealed strong peaks (localized spot) associated with the induced damage.
Microwave dielectric properties of single-crystal quantum paraelectrics KTaO3 and SrTiO3 at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Geyer Richard G. , Riddle Bill , Krupka Jerzy , Boatner Lynn A.
Published: May 2005

Microwave dielectric properties of single-crystal incipient quantum ferroelectrics, KTaO3 and SrTiO3, have been measured at cryogenic temperatures. Cylindrical specimens were used as TE0n1-mode and quasi-TE011-mode dielectric resonators at temperatures ranging from 4to300K. Conductive losses of the measurement resonant structures were taken into account, both as a function of frequency and temperature, so that uncertainties in the evaluated dielectric losses were ±5%. The real permittivity was measured with an accuracy of ±0.5%. The evaluated real permittivities of KTaO3 and SrTiO3 exhibit no ferroelectric transition, and remain paraelectric down to 5K, consistent with soft-mode stabilization. Dielectric loss tangent values of KTaO3 at 3GHz were 4.2×10−5 at 5.4K, 8.9×10−5 at 77K, and 1.4×10−4 at 300K, while those of SrTiO3 were 3.4×10−3 at 5.4K, 2.4×10−4 at 77K, and 3.8×10−4 at 300K. Results of the complex permittivity measurements are compared with theoretical predictions from a modified Devonshire phenomenological model.
Viscous fingering of miscible slices
Authors: De Wit A. , Bertho Y. , Martin M.
Published: May 2005

Viscous fingering of a miscible high viscosity slice of fluid displaced by a lower viscosity fluid is studied in porous media by direct numerical simulations of Darcy’s law coupled to the evolution equation for the concentration of a solute controlling the viscosity of miscible solutions. In contrast with fingering between two semi-infinite regions, fingering of finite slices is a transient phenomenon due to the decrease in time of the viscosity ratio across the interface induced by fingering and dispersion processes. We show that fingering contributes transiently to the broadening of the peak in time by increasing its variance. A quantitative analysis of the asymptotic contribution of fingering to this variance is conducted as a function of the four relevant parameters of the problem, i.e., the log-mobility ratio R, the length of the slice l, the Péclet number Pe, and the ratio between transverse and axial dispersion coefficients ε. Relevance of the results is discussed in relation with transport of viscous samples in chromatographic columns and propagation of contaminants in porous media.
Effective magnetic permeability of Ni and Co micro- and nanoparticles embedded in a ZnO matrix
Authors: Brosseau Christian , Talbot Philippe
Published: May 2005

Current trends in the miniaturization of microwave devices have prompted considerable interest in studying electromagnetic transport in nanoscale systems. Understanding the effect of physical structure and the role of interfaces is critical for gaining insight into the electromagnetic and magnetic properties of nanostructures and their behavior in microwave devices such as circulators and isolators. Previously, we have described the electromagnetic characteristics at microwave frequencies and the static magnetic properties of γ–Fe2O3∕ZnO micro- and nanocomposites fabricated via powder processing. Here we present systematic effective permeability measurements of magnetically structured granular systems composed of magnetic grains embedded in a nonmagnetic matrix using broadband microwave spectroscopy. Using the transmission∕reflection waveguide method, the effective complex permeability was measured in the frequency range of 0.01–10GHz. The results were compared for composites consisting of micrometer-sized (type-M) and nanometer-sized (type-N) Co and Ni particles embedded in a ZnO matrix. Results show that the type-N composite samples display a prominent gyromagnetic resonance in the gigahertz region of frequency which can have a complex structure. In contrast, this resonance is not observable for the type-M composite samples. These results are in agreement with the previous observations for the γ–Fe2O3∕ZnO composites. Interestingly, the Ni∕γ–Fe2O3 type-N composites exhibit a composition dependence of the effective permeability which is quite different from the Co∕ZnO and Ni∕ZnO type-N composites. From the microwave data collected, it is found that a mean-field approach (effective-medium approximation) is appropriate for understanding the permeability of composite materials characterized by submicrometer inclusion length scales. The relevance of the Bruggeman and McLachlan models are tested against experimental data over a large range of composition. From these comparisons, although there are some systematic discrepancies to a certain extent, we conclude that the overall agreement of the spectral dependence of the complex permeability of Ni nanocomposites with the Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert prediction is fairly good in view of the simple assumption. It seems that this phenomenology is also applicable to Co nanocomposites by assuming a double Lorentzian form for the gyromagnetic resonance. Analysis of the gyrorcsonance linewidths strongly suggests a large dispersion in the local field which presumably reflects the disordered physical nanostructure.
Midinfrared optical upconverter
Authors: Ban D. , Luo H. , Liu H. C. , Wasilewski Z. R. , Paltiel Y. , Raizman A. , Sher A.
Published: May 2005

We have developed a midinfrared optical upconverter by wafer bonding a GaAs∕AlGaAs light-emitting diode with an InSb p+nn+ photodetector. The device converts midinfrared radiation in the range of 3–5.45μm to near-infrared light at 0.84μm, which can be efficiently detected using a widely available Si charge coupled device. At 77K, the measured external upconversion efficiency was 0.093W∕W. The optical up-conversion device, in combination with the Si CCD camera, leads to an alternative solution for making low-cost and large-area midinfrared imaging device. Effects of electrical gain and photon recycling inside this integrated device are discussed.
Scanning tunneling microscopy characterization of low-profile crystalline TiSi2 microelectrodes on a Si(111) surface
Authors: Tong Xiao , Wolkow Robert A.
Published: May 2005

Microscopic four-probe TiSi2 electrodes were fabricated on clean Si(111) surfaces and characterized using scanning tunneling microscopy with atomic resolution. The TiSi2 electrodes remained intact, and the clean Si(111)-7×7 structure was observed near the electrodes after annealing the Si substrate up to 1200 °C. The TiSi2 electrodes were formed with a high density of large silicide plateaus. Each plateau was formed from stacked atomically flat layers comprised of atomic rows, which have been assigned as C54 phase with an epitaxial relation of TiSi2(311)‖Si(111). The TiSi2 probes have the desired properties of very low profiles, low resistance, and thermal as well as chemical stability, thereby enabling the direct measurement of electrical transport properties of low-dimensional structures fabricated on clean Si surfaces.
Controlled shallow single-ion implantation in silicon using an active substrate for sub-20-keV ions
Authors: Jamieson D. N. , Yang C. , Hopf T. , Hearne S. M. , Pakes C. I. , Prawer S. , Mitic M. , Gauja E. , Andresen S. E. , Hudson F. E. , Dzurak A. S. , Clark R. G.
Published: May 2005

We demonstrate a method for the controlled implantation of single ions into a silicon substrate with energy of sub-20-keV. The method is based on the collection of electron-hole pairs generated in the substrate by the impact of a single ion. We have used the method to implant single 14-keV P31 ions through nanoscale masks into silicon as a route to the fabrication of devices based on single donors in silicon.
Classification of basal Cucujoidea (Coleoptera:Polyphaga): cladistic analysis, keys and review of new families
Authors: Leschen R. A. B. , Lawrence J. F. , Ślipiński S. A.
Published: May 2005

Phylogenetic relationships among the basal Cucujoidea were reconstructed by a cladistic analysis of a data matrix consisting of 37 exemplar taxa and 99 adult and larval characters. Eight most parsimonious cladograms provided evidence for the polyphyly of Phloeostichidae, the paraphyly of Cucujoidea (with respect to the placement of Trogossitidae), and the monophyly of Protocucujidae + Sphindidae, Biphyllidae + Erotylidae, Cryptophagidae, Cucujidae + Silvanidae, Propalticidae + Laemophloeidae, and the Nitidulidae groups (Nitidulidae, Smicripidae, and Brachypteridae). The following families are elevated from subfamily to family status: Agapythidae (one genus), Phloeostichidae (four genera; the subfamilies Phloeostichinae and Hymaeinae are supressed), Priasilphidae (three genera), Tasmosalpingidae (one genus), and Myraboliidae (one genus). These families are described in detail and adult and larval keys to all families of Cucujoidea are provided. The genus Bunyastichus, gen. nov. (type species: B. monteithi, sp. nov.) is described in the family Phloeostichidae and the family Priasilphidae is revised with the following new taxa: Chileosilpha, gen. nov. (type species: C. elguetai, sp. nov.), Priasilpha (P. angulata, sp. nov., P. aucklandica, sp. nov., P. bufonia, sp. nov., P. carinata, sp. nov., P. earlyi, sp. nov., and P. embersoni, sp. nov.), Priastichus (P. crowsoni, sp. nov. and P. megathorax, sp. nov.).
Aeroacoustics of [s]
Authors: Howe M.S , McGowan R.S
Published: May 2005

The theory of the sibilant fricative [s] is formulated and solved as a mathematical problem of aeroacoustics. Air is forced through the constriction between the tongue blade and the hard palate by intra-oral pressure, forming a jet that strikes the upper incisors and leaves the mouth through a gap between the upper and lower incisors. The principal source of sound is the ‘diffraction’ of jet turbulence pressure fluctuations by the incisors. The spectrum of these pressure fluctuations incident on the teeth is modelled analytically using an empirical formula adapted from turbulent boundary-layer theory. Predictions are made about the far field acoustic pressure spectrum with reference to measured and estimated values of vocal tract dimensions and intra-oral pressure. Predicted spectra compare well with observations. The principal spectral peaks are determined by vocal tract physiology anterior to the tongue–palate constriction. The theory furnishes the first correct prediction of the dependence of the overall sound pressure level on the intra-oral pressure.
Lozenge directly activates argos and klumpfuss to regulate programmed cell death
Authors: Wildonger Jill , Sosinsky Alona , Honig Barry , Mann Richard S.
Published: May 2005

We show that reducing the activity of the Drosophila Runx protein Lozenge (Lz) during pupal development causes a decrease in cell death in the eye. We identified Lz-binding sites in introns of argos (aos) and klumpfuss (klu) and demonstrate that these genes are directly activated targets of Lz. Loss of either aos or klu reduces cell death, suggesting that Lz promotes apoptosis at least in part by regulating aos and klu. These results provide novel insights into the control of programmed cell death (PCD) by Lz during Drosophila eye development.
Brain lipid-binding protein is a direct target of Notch signaling in radial glial cells
Authors: Anthony Todd E. , Mason Heather A. , Gridley Thomas , Fishell Gord , Heintz Nathaniel
Published: May 2005

Radial glia function during CNS development both as neural progenitors and as a scaffolding supporting neuronal migration. To elucidate pathways involved in these functions, we mapped in vivo the promoter for Blbp, a radial glial gene. We show here that a binding site for the Notch effector CBF1 is essential for all Blbp transcription in radial glia, and that BLBP expression is significantly reduced in the forebrains of mice lacking the Notch1 and Notch3 receptors. These results identify Blbp as the first predominantly CNS-specific Notch target gene and suggest that it mediates some aspects of Notch signaling in radial glia.
Polarity of the mouse embryo is established at blastocyst and is not prepatterned
Authors: Motosugi Nami , Bauer Tobias , Polanski Zbigniew , Solter Davor , Hiiragi Takashi
Published: May 2005

Polarity formation in mammalian preimplantation embryos has long been a subject of controversy. Mammalian embryos are highly regulative, which has led to the conclusion that polarity specification does not exist until the blastocyst stage; however, some recent reports have now suggested polarity predetermination in the egg. Our recent time-lapse recordings have demonstrated that the first cleavage plane is not predetermined in the mouse egg. Here we show that, in contrast to previous claims, two-cell blastomeres do not differ and their precise future contribution to the inner cell mass and/or the trophectoderm cannot be anticipated. Thus, all evidence so far strongly suggests the absence of predetermined axes in the mouse egg. We observe that the ellipsoidal zona pellucida exerts mechanical pressure and space constraints as the coalescing multiple cavities are restricted to one end of the long axis of the blastocyst. We propose that these mechanical cues, in conjunction with the epithelial seal in the outer cell layer, lead to specification of the embryonic–abembryonic axis, thus establishing first polarity in the mouse embryo.
Brain parenchymal damage after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for severe sickle cell disease
Authors: Woodard Paul , Helton Kathleen J. , Khan Raja B. , Hale Gregory A. , Phipps Sean , Wang Winfred , Handgretinger Rupert , Cunningham John M.
Published: May 2005

Prospective magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), neuropsychological testing and neurological examinations were performed to determine the long‐term effect of successful haematopoietic stem cell transplantation on the neurological status of nine children with sickle cell disease. A scoring system for severity of brain parenchymal and vascular lesions was developed and applied. Neurological examinations and neuropsychometric tests were stable, but MRI and MRA studies were not. Transient changes occurred early in two patients. Persistent changes occurred in five. Parenchymal lesions occurred in zero of two patients without prior lacunae or infarcts and in all seven with prior lacunae or infarcts (P = 0·0278).
Parenting stress in mothers of children with an intellectual disability: the effects of parental cognitions in relation to child characteristics and family support
Authors: Hassall R. , Rose J. , McDonald J.
Published: May 2005

Background  Recent theories of stress and coping in parents of children with intellectual disabilities (ID) emphasize the importance of cognitive appraisals in influencing parents’ levels of stress and their adaptations to difficulties presented by the children. This study investigated the relationships between parental cognitions, child characteristics, family support and parenting stress. The aspects of cognitions studied were: parenting self‐esteem (including efficacy and satisfaction) and parental locus of control.

Methods  The group studied consisted of 46 mothers of children with ID. The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales and Maladaptive Behavior Domain were administered by interview. Mothers also completed four questionnaires: the Family Support Scale, the Parenting Sense of Competence Scale, a shortened form of the Parental Locus of Control Scale and the Parenting Stress Index (Short Form).

Results  Data were analysed using Pearson's correlation coefficients, partial correlations and a regression analysis. The results indicated that most of the variance in parenting stress was explained by parental locus of control, parenting satisfaction and child behaviour difficulties. Whilst there was also a strong correlation between family support and parenting stress, this was mediated by parental locus of control.

Conclusions  The results demonstrate the potential importance of parental cognitions in influencing parental stress levels. It is argued that these results have implications for clinical interventions for promoting parents’ coping strategies in managing children with ID and behavioural difficulties.
Leisure provision for persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities: quality time or killing time?
Authors: Zijlstra H. P. , Vlaskamp C.
Published: May 2005

Background  Information on the duration, frequency and content of leisure activities for persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) in residential facilities during weekends was not available.

Method  The project was carried out in 2003 and included seven facilities. Interviews were held with direct support professionals of 112 living units. Consequently, the actual leisure provision of 160 persons with PIMD was recorded over a period of four weekends. This study also investigated the relationship between setting characteristics and the distribution of the content, frequency and duration of leisure activities. Age and gender of persons with PIMD were under investigation.

Results  A total mean of 3.8 h of leisure activities is provided for during the full weekend, almost half of which includes watching television or listening to music. Leisure activities are almost exclusively offered by professionals. Parents or volunteers only provide a minimum of activities during weekends. The results suggest that the leisure provision for persons with PIMD is severely restricted and not bound to any service provider in particular. Generally, with increasing age the leisure provision for persons with PIMD declines in number and in variety. No effect was found for gender.

Conclusions  Leisure time for persons with PIMD contains more empty hours than quality time.
The respiratory system in connective tissue disorders
Authors: Crestani B.
Published: May 2005

The connective tissue disorders (also called collagen vascular diseases) represent an heterogeneous group of immunologically mediated inflammatory disorders with a large variety of affected organs besides the lungs. The respiratory system may be involved in all its components: airways, vessels, parenchyma, pleura, respiratory muscles, etc. The frequency, clinical presentation, prognosis and response to therapy vary, depending on the pattern of involvement as well as on the underlying connective tissue disorders. The subject of this review is to describe the most frequent type of lung disorders observed in patients with connective tissue disease (CTD). We will focus on the most frequent CTD: systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, Sjogren's syndrome, dermatopolymyositis and mixed CTD.
Repeatability of peak nasal inspiratory flow measurements and utility for assessing the severity of rhinitis
Authors: Starling‐Schwanz R. , Peake H. L. , Salome C. M. , Toelle B. G. , Ng K. W. , Marks G. B. , Lean M. L. , Rimmer S. J.
Published: May 2005

Background:  The measurement of peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) provides a simple, cheap, fast and readily available tool for determining the extent of nasal airway patency. However, there are questions regarding its repeatability when used to assess the degree of nasal obstruction in large populations. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the repeatability of PNIF measurements and to assess their association with the signs and symptoms of rhinitis.

Methods:  The PNIF, rhinitis symptoms, judged by Meltzer questionnaire and rhinitis signs, as determined by anterior rhinoscopy, were assessed in 283 adults representative of the general population. One training and two test PNIF measurements were recorded during the same session.

Results:  The PNIF was highly reproducible (ICC = 0.92; 95% limits of agreement: ±36 l/min). The PNIF was strongly correlated with rhinitis signs, measured by anterior rhinoscopy (rs = −0.38, P < 0.0001) but was not correlated with rhinitis symptoms, measured by questionnaire (rs = −0.11, P = 0.057). Differences in PNIF for subjects categorized as asymptomatic, mild or moderate/severe on the basis of rhinitis signs, were highly significant (P < 0.0001), but less significant on the basis of rhinitis symptoms (P = 0.04). A PNIF cut‐off of 115 l/min had moderately high specificity (72%) and sensitivity (65%) and a high negative predictive value (90%) for moderate/severe signs of rhinitis.

Conclusion:  In a large general population‐based sample of young adults, PNIF was highly reproducible and closely related to the signs of rhinitis, as determined by clinical examination. The PNIF provides information that is qualitatively different to that provided by symptom scores and may be useful to measure the extent of nasal obstruction.
Heart transplant recipient clinical profile improvement following mycophenolate mofetil late incorporation into the treatment schedule
Authors: Manito Nicolás , Kaplinsky Edgardo J , Roca Josep , Castells Eduardo , Saura Emilio , Gomez‐Hospital Joan Antoni , Esplugas Enrique
Published: May 2005

Abstract: Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has a better clinical profile than azathioprine in heart transplantation (HT). Forty‐five recipients (aged 53 ± 9 yr) were retrospectively evaluated (first year of follow‐up) post‐MMF introduction since its advent in 1997 (mean daily dose: 1.97 ± 0.2 g). MMF was used (mean post‐HT time: 40 ± 27 months) for: (i) renal insufficiency attenuation (group 1 = 20); (ii) steroid reduction because of osteoporosis (group 2 = 12); (iii) treatment of persistent cellular rejection (group 3 = 7) and vascular graft disease (VGD) (group 4 = 6). Mean changes (groups 1–2) were: creatinine 172 ± 59, 158 ± 51, 153 ± 57 μmol/L (at baseline, 6 and 12 months, respectively; p < 0.001). Cyclosporine daily dose: 219 ± 37, 166 ± 46, 176 ± 98 mg, respectively (p < 0.001). Cyclosporine blood concentration: 151 ± 40, 103 ± 41, 83 ± 34 ng/mL, respectively (p < 0.004). Prednisone daily dose: 8.3 ± 2, 5.2 ± 1, 4.1 ± 1 mg, respectively (p < 0.001). Cellular rejection (group 3) was successfully treated (86%) but the outcome of VGD did not improve after the switch (group 4). Our limited experience (with caution) confirms the reported benefits of MMF particularly attenuating renal insufficiency.
Molecular monitoring of T‐cell chimerism early after allogeneic stem cell transplantation may predict the occurrence of acute GVHD grades II–IV
Authors: Jaksch Marie , Uzunel Mehmet , Remberger Mats , Sundberg Berit , Mattsson Jonas
Published: May 2005

Abstract:  Mixed chimerism (MC) within CD4+ and CD8+ T cell days 7 and 10 after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) was compared with the occurrence of acute graft‐vs.‐host disease (GVHD) in 34 patients after SCT. Acute GVHD was diagnosed in 22 patients within the first 3 months after SCT, 15 of these developed acute GVHD grades II–IV. The difference in the clearance rate of host T cell between the two days were compared. We found a significantly higher risk (p = 0.005) for developing acute GVHD grades II–IV in patients with complete donor CD4+ T‐cell chimerism day 7 after SCT together with patients who increased 50% or more in donor CD4+ T cells between days 7 and 10 after SCT. Our data suggest that molecular monitoring of MC early after transplantation may be useful as a diagnostic tool in predicting the occurrence of moderate to severe acute GVHD after SCT.
Capillary electrophoresis for chimerism monitoring by PCR amplification of microsatellite markers after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Spyridonidis Alexandros , Zeiser Robert , Wäsch Ralph , Bertz Hartmut , Finke Jürgen
Published: May 2005

Abstract:  Background:  Hematopoietic chimerism has been demonstrated to be relevant for donor cell engraftment and detection of minimal residual disease after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (aHCT). In the light of increasing numbers of non‐myeloablative aHCT as a treatment modality sensitive, rapid, and accurate chimerism monitoring techniques acquire novel relevance.

Methods:  We evaluated the informativeness of five microsatellite markers in 376 donor/recipient pairs and evaluated the ability of capillary electrophoresis to detect mixed chimerism after aHCT. The sensitivity for capillary electrophoresis with respect to different markers was determined by limiting dilution assays with mixed chimerism samples containing defined amounts of cells or DNA. Furthermore, capillary electrophoresis was applied in 17 retrospectively selected patients with a mixed chimerism detected previously by gel electrophoresis, having undergone aHCT for different hematologic diseases and initially achieving a complete donor chimerism.

Results:  In 163 of 165 (98%) of all related and 210 of 211 (99%) unrelated transplants the microsatellites identified informative alleles. The sensitivity and accuracy was higher with capillary electrophoresis when compared with gel electrophoresis with three of five microsatellites. Potential pitfalls with the application of capillary electrophoresis was preferential amplification and the occurrence of stutter peaks in the representative area. Investigation of the selected patient samples demonstrated that detection of a mixed chimerism was earlier with capillary electrophoresis when compared with gel electrophoresis. The detected recipient genotype by capillary electrophoresis examination, despite a negative gel electrophoresis result, ranged from 0.7 to 7.1%.

Conclusions:  We conclude that chimerism assessment with our five microsatellites identified informative alleles in 99% of all donor/recipient pairs and may therefore be of use when establishing an institutional chimerism testing procedure. Capillary electrophoresis displayed a high sensitivity and accuracy for detecting a mixed chimerism in vitro and in vivo.
Blood glutathione as a marker of cardiac allograft vasculopathy in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Chiara Benedetta De , Bigi Riccardo , Campolo Jonica , Parolini Marina , Turazza Fabio , Masciocco Gabriella , Frigerio Maria , Fiorentini Cesare , Parodi Oberdan
Published: May 2005

Abstract:  Background:  Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) limits survival after heart transplantation (HTx). Between immunologic and non‐immunologic factors, reactive oxygen species generation has been proposed as pathogenetic mechanism. This study was aimed at evaluating redox status in HTx recipients and verifying whether it could be independently associated with CAV.

Methods:  Fifty‐five consecutive male HTx recipients, median [interquartile range] age 60 yr [50, 64], underwent angiography 67 months [21, 97] after HTx to assess CAV, defined as significant stenosis in ≥1 epicardial vessel or any distal vessel attenuation. All patients underwent blood sampling 89 months [67, 119] after HTx for biochemical (glucose, creatinine, total and LDL cholesterol, and cyclosporin levels) and redox evaluation [plasma reduced and total homocysteine, cysteine, cysteinylglycine, glutathione, blood reduced glutathione (GSHbl) and vitamin E]. Univariate Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI, highest vs. lowest quartile) were estimated on the basis of a logistic regression analysis between clinical, conventional biochemical and redox data. Only the significant variables at univariate entered into multivariate analysis.

Results:  CAV was documented in 15 (27%) patients. Univariate analysis showed that time from HTx to angiography (OR 3.97, 95% CI 1.15–14, p = 0.03) and GSHbl (OR 0.31, 95% CI: 0.14–0.70, p = 0.005) were significantly associated with CAV. However, multivariate analysis revealed GSHbl as the only independent predictor of CAV (OR 0.31, 95% CI: 0.13–0.74, p = 0.008).

Conclusions:  In HTx recipients reduced levels of GSHbl are independently associated with CAV. Given its potent intracellular scavenger properties, GSHbl may serve as a marker of antioxidant defence consumption, favouring CAV development.
Pulmonary infections increase exhaled nitric oxide in lung transplant recipients: a longitudinal study
Authors: Antus Balazs , Csiszer Eszter , Czebe Krisztina , Horvath Ildiko
Published: May 2005

Abstract:  The aim of this longitudinal study was to test whether pulmonary infections influence fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels (FENO) in otherwise clinically‐stable lung transplant recipients. Levels of FENO were measured at least on 11 occasions in nine lung transplant recipients who attended for routine or urgent clinical review over 27.0 ± 3.2  months period. Diagnosis of infection was based on clinical symptoms, functional measurements and radiological findings. Concentrations of FENO were also determined in 12 healthy volunteers. During follow‐up, six patients had one, two had three, and one had four episodes of pulmonary infections. Overall, six upper and 10 lower respiratory tract infections were noted. Recipients with active infections developed increased FENO levels as compared with their own baseline levels measured in the clinically well period (10.8 ± 1.3 vs. 7.6 ± 1.1 ppb, p < 0.05). After antibiotic treatment, elevated FENO concentrations returned to baseline in association with full clinical recovery. Baseline FENO levels in lung transplant recipients and in healthy volunteers (6.0 ± 0.5 ppb) were similar. The sensitivity and specificity of FENO measurement in detecting pulmonary infections were 57 and 96%, respectively. Our data suggest that pulmonary infections are associated with increased FENO levels in patients with lung allografts. Nevertheless, the measurement of FENO by itself as a screening tool for infections seems to be limited by its low sensitivity.
United Network for Organ Sharing's expanded criteria donors: is stratification useful?*
Authors: Baskin‐Bey Edwina S. , Kremers Walter , Stegall Mark D. , Nyberg Scott L.
Published: May 2005

Abstract: The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) Expanded Criteria Donor (ECD) system utilizes pre‐transplant variables to identify deceased donor kidneys with an increased risk of graft loss. The aim of this study was to compare the ECD system with a quantitative approach, the deceased donor score (DDS), in predicting outcome after kidney transplantation. We retrospectively reviewed 49 111 deceased donor renal transplants from the UNOS database between 1984 and 2002. DDS: 0–39 points; ≥20 points defined as marginal. Recipient outcome variables were analyzed by ANOVA or Kaplan–Meier method. There was a 90% agreement between the DDS and ECD systems as predictors of renal function and graft survival. However, DDS identified ECD− kidneys (10.7%) with a significantly poorer outcome than expected (DDS 20–29 points, n = 5,252). Stratification of ECD+ kidneys identified a group with the poorest outcome (DDS ≥30 points). Predictability of early post‐transplant events (i.e. need for hemodialysis, decline of serum creatinine and length of hospital stay) was also improved by DDS. DDS predicted outcome of deceased donor renal transplantation better than the ECD system. Knowledge obtained by stratification of deceased donor kidneys can allow for improved utilization of marginal kidneys which is not achieved by the UNOS ECD definition alone.
Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia antibody and the pathogenesis of thrombotic microangiopathy after stem cell transplantation
Authors: Takatsuka Hiroyuki , Nakajima Toshiyuki , Nomura Kaori , Wakae Takeshi , Toda Akinari , Itoi Hisayuki , Okada Masaya , Misawa Mahito , Hara Hiroshi
Published: May 2005

Abstract:  Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) that occurs after stem cell transplantation (SCT) is generally regarded as being different from thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), because it is reportedly not associated with deficiency of von Willebrand factor‐cleaving protease, whereas this enzyme is deficient in TTP. However, better understanding of the pathogenesis of this condition is still required. Accordingly, we investigated the relationship between TMA occurring after SCT and heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a condition related to low‐dosed heparin therapy that features thrombocytopenia and generalized thrombotic disorders. Thirty‐nine consecutive patients who underwent bone marrow transplantation were divided into a TMA group and a non‐microangiopathy group (10 and 29 patients, respectively). Before SCT, the serum platelet factor 4 (PF4) levels of the TMA and non‐microangiopathy groups were 0.123 ± 0.023 and 0.132 ± 0.025, respectively (p = NS). One week after recovery of the white blood cell count following transplantation, the TMA group (0.2902 ± 0.0678) had a significantly higher PF4 level than the non‐microangiopathy group (0.1548 ± 0.0312) (p < 0.001, t‐test). Thus, PF4 increased after engraftment of the transplanted stem cells in the patients who developed TMA. In patients who developed TMA, there was a significant correlation between the PF4 level and the grade of angiopathy according to the Zeigler grading system (p < 0.01 by linear regression analysis).

These results suggest that a HIT antibody produced by donor cells may be involved in the development of TMA after SCT.
Effects on Blood Concentrations of Certain Serum Fat‐soluble Vitamins of Long‐term Feeding of Dairy Cows on a Diet Supplemented with Clinoptilolite
Authors: Katsoulos P. D. , Panousis N. , Roubies N. , Christaki E. , Karatzias H.
Published: May 2005

The objective of the experiment was to investigate the effect of clinoptilolite (a natural zeolite) supplementation in the ration of dairy cows on serum β‐carotene, vitamins A and E concentrations. Fifty‐two clinically healthy Holstein cows were randomly assigned to one of three groups according to their age and parity. The first group (group A, n = 17), was offered a concentrate feed supplemented with 1.25% clinoptilolite. The second group (group B, n = 17), was offered a concentrate feed supplemented with 2.5% clinoptilolite. The third group (group C, n = 18), which served as controls, was offered the same concentrate feed without clinoptilolite supplementation. All cows were fed the above concentrates continuously starting 30 days before the expected parturition up to the end of lactation. Blood samples from individual animals were collected just before the start of experiment, at the day of calving and, thereafter, at monthly intervals. All samples were tested for serum β‐carotene, vitamins A and E concentrations. The results showed that the 1.25 and 2.5% supplementation of clinoptilolite had no adverse effect on serum concentrations of β‐carotene, vitamins A and E.
Pathogenesis of Ascites in Broilers Raised at Low Altitude: Aetiological Considerations Based on Echocardiographic Findings
Authors: Olkowski A. A. , Abbott J. A. , Classen H. L.
Published: May 2005

This study reports novel insight into the aetiology of pulmonary hypertension and ascites in broiler chickens. The scope of measurements was focused on anatomical and functional parameters, and blood flow patterns in leghorns (resistant to ascites), fast‐growing broilers (susceptible to ascites), broilers developing ascites, and ascitic broilers evaluated in vivo using echocardiography, and further examined in the context of postmortem findings. Both, in vivo observed features and postmortem findings, showed clear differences between broilers and leghorns, and between normal and ascitic broilers. Abnormalities in the heart chamber geometry and blood flow patterns were detected upon echocardiographic examination in all ascitic broilers. Right and left atrio‐ventricular (AV) valve regurgitation were common findings in ascitic broilers and some apparently normal broilers, with left AV valve insufficiency being a predominant feature with respect to degree and frequency of occurrence. Blood flow disturbances were not detected in leghorns. Left ventricular fractional shortening (functional parameter) was considerably reduced (P < 0.01) in ascitic birds (mean: 21.7 ± 2.0 SE) in comparison with normal broilers (mean: 39.1 ± 3.6 SE), or leghorns (mean: 43.3 ± 2.4 SE). The presented findings indicate that pathological and functional changes in the left ventricle and atrium play a significant role in the pathogenesis of ascites in broilers. Severe dilation of the left atrium and pulmonary veins seen on postmortem examination, as well as regurgitant blood flow in the left atrium, demonstrated by Doppler study in ascitic birds, provide evidence that chronically elevated pressure in the left atrium is involved in the aetiology of pulmonary hypertension and ascites in fast‐growing broilers.
The Opioid Haemorphin‐7 in Horses During Low‐speed and High‐speed Treadmill Exercise to Fatigue
Authors: Collinder E. , Nyberg F. , Sanderson‐Nydahl K. , Gottlieb‐Vedi M. , Lindholm A.
Published: May 2005

The opioid neuropeptide haemorphin‐7 was measured, by immunoreactivity, in Standardbred horses during low‐speed (7 m/s) and high‐speed (10 m/s) endurance exercises, lasting 49–58 and 12–16 min respectively. In parallel, heart rate, muscle temperature and plasma lactate concentrations were measured. The profile of the low‐speed exercise showed significantly increased heart rate after 10 min [154 beats per minute (bpm)]. After the exercise, muscle temperature (42.1°C) and plasma lactate (4.8 mmol/l) were significantly increased. The profile of the high‐speed exercise was comparatively characterized by a higher increase of heart rate after 5 min (194 bpm) and higher increases of muscle temperature (43.2°C) and lactate levels (15.8 mmol/l) after the exercise. The horses were probably exhausted by glycogen depletion in the low‐speed exercise and by muscle pH decrease in the high‐speed exercise. Haemorphin‐7 increased significantly during the high‐speed exercise (274.8 fmol/ml) but not during low speed (108.3 fmol/ml), coincident with the results of lactate. These results suggest that plasma haemorphin‐7 is measurable in the horse by immunoreactivity, and that intense exercise stimulates release of this opioid. Such endogenous opioids are most likely involved in regulatory functions associated with pain, physical effort, inflammation, and blood pressure variation in horses, as have been established in other species.
Nursing time allocation and other considerations for staffing
Authors: Gran‐Moravec Marilyn B. , Hughes Christina M.
Published: May 2005

Abstract The purpose of this project was to evaluate how nursing staff on the telemetry unit at Merle West Medical Center, a rural Pacific northwest community medical center in the USA, spend their time on selected nursing tasks, and how they believed staffing and patient acuity levels could best be determined. A self‐report survey tool was developed, piloted and administered. Of the tasks that were listed in the survey, registered nurses (RNs) reported spending 39% of their time performing tasks that RNs only can perform. RNs reported spending 12% of their time performing activities that certified nursing assistants (CNAs) could perform alone and 49% of their time was spent on tasks that both RNs and CNAs must perform. Results from the quantitative portion of the survey indicated that RNs may not be used efficiently due to task overlap. Administering a modified survey which includes a balance of direct and indirect patient care tasks, as well as only those tasks that are truly performed frequently, will increase the relevance of the results.
Genetics of cardiovascular diseases: An overview
Authors: Ramirez Carmen T , McKelvey Kent D.
Published: May 2005

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of illness and death in the USA, as well as other countries. Advances in genetics have led researchers to identified associations between a number of cardiac syndromes and diagnostic molecular findings. Therefore, a more precise understanding of the molecular pathways involved in cardiovascular diseases is clinically significant. Current literature suggests that while etiologies remain complex, a number of cardiovascular diseases can be linked to specific metabolic inheritable factors. A broad multifactorial model is gradually being replaced with disease specific models where independent genetic and/or teratogenic pathways may lead to a particular outcome. These genetic pathways include chromosome deletions, disruptions (translocations), duplications of particular genetic regions, point mutations involving single genes, or alteration in the ability for a gene to be transcribed into a functional protein. In this review the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases and their clinical manifestations will be explained.
An optimized method for intensive screening of molecules that stimulate β‐defensin 2 or 3 (hBD2 or hBD3) expression in cultured normal human keratinocytes
Authors: Pernet I. , Reymermier C. , Guezennec A. , Viac J. , Guesnet J. , Perrier E.
Published: May 2005

Synopsis

Normal human skin controls the intrusion of microorganisms by the production of peptide antibiotics such as defensins. The aim of our study was to develop a culture model of normal human keratinocytes for optimal β‐defensin mRNA detection which allows the screening of molecules able to stimulate hBD2 and hBD3 without inducing pro‐inflammatory cytokines. A keratinocyte culture model in 96‐well plates, in high calcium medium (1.7 mm) allowed to analyze hBD2 and hBD3 mRNA expression in basal condition and after cell stimulation by products from diverse vegetal extracts. The release of IL‐8 and the chemokine MIP‐3α was also evaluated in cell supernatants by ELISA. Among the 184 extracts tested, 75 showed a stimulatory effect on β‐defensin expression: 40 on hBD2, 26 on hBD3 and nine on both defensins. Fifteen of these substances which also induced the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines were eliminated. Among the other substances, four were selected and were analyzed in a dose‐dependent study (n = 4) by real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR and completed by a measure of MIP‐3α, IL‐8 and IL‐1α levels. These data underline the important necessity of screening result controls by a quantitative method reproduced at least three times. This new method of intensive screening allowed us to exhibit vegetal extracts that were able to stimulate epidermal β‐defensin expression without inducing an up‐secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines.
Divisia price and quantity indices: 80 years after
Authors: Balk Bert M.
Published: May 2005

This paper reviews and extends the theory of price and quantity indices which are defined as line integrals, the two types being those of Divisia and Montgomery. The properties of these indices are systematically explored, whereby in particular attention is paid to the path‐(in)dependency issue. Two sections discuss the problem of how to approximate the line integral indices when only data at discrete points of time are available. It appears that every bilateral index can be conceived as the outcome of a line integral index over a particular curve in price–quantity space. The classical position is that chained bilateral indices are rationalized by Divisia indices. This rationalization is only interesting when the Divisia indices themselves possess a proper foundation in economic theory. The final sections are therefore devoted to the role played by the Divisia indices in micro‐economic theory.
Neyman type A distribution revisited
Authors: Massé Jean–Claude , Theodorescu Radu
Published: May 2005

The modality structure of the Neyman type A distribution is examined. The results obtained add to those previously stated in Barton (1957) (or in Johnsonet al. (1992, p. 370)) and in Shenton and Bowman (1967). Strong unimodality of this distribution is also considered. Problem 328 in Statistica Neerlandica (Theodorescu (1997)) and its solution (Borwein (2000)) play an important part.
Nonword recall and phonemic discrimination in four‐ to six‐year‐old children
Authors: Masterson Jackie , Laxon Veronica , Carnegie Emma , Wright Sheila , Horslen Janice
Published: May 2005

Previous research has established that the degree of ‘wordlikeness’ of nonwords affects young children's nonword repetition performance. Experiment 1 examined the possibility that output processes are responsible for the wordlikeness effect by using a probed recall procedure. Wordlikeness was defined in terms of phonological neighbourhood density, although this measure was found to be related to the traditional measure of wordlikeness involving adult ratings. A significant effect of number of phonological neighbours/wordlikeness was observed in favour of nonwords with many neighbours. In Experiments 2 and 3 the wordlikeness effect was qualified by a significant interaction with nonword repetition ability. Children with poorer repetition ability were affected by number of neighbours/wordlikeness, while children with better repetition ability were not. Children with poorer repetition ability were significantly poorer than the better repeaters with nonwords with few neighbours. The results were interpreted in terms of theories of phonological development that suggest progressive segmentation of lexical representations. In Experiment 4 the relationship of children's nonword repetition ability to phonemic discrimination ability was investigated. The results demonstrated that children with better nonword repetition ability had superior phonemic discrimination performance than children with poorer nonword repetition ability.
Pre‐attack symptomatology and temperament as predictors of children's responses to the September 11 terrorist attacks
Authors: Lengua Liliana J. , Long Anna C. , Smith Kimberlee I. , Meltzoff Andrew N.
Published: May 2005

Background:  The aims of this study were to assess the psychological response of children following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, DC and to examine prospective predictors of children's post‐attack responses.

Method:  Children's responses were assessed in a community sample of children in Seattle, Washington, participating in an ongoing study. Symptomatology and temperament assessed prior to the attacks were examined as prospective predictors of post‐attack post‐traumatic stress (PTS), anxiety, depression and externalizing problems.

Results:  Children demonstrated PTS symptoms and worries at levels comparable to those in children directly experiencing disasters, with 77% of children reporting being worried, 68% being upset by reminders, and 39% having upsetting thoughts. The most common PTS symptom cluster was re‐experiencing, and 8% of children met criteria consistent with PTSD. African‐American children reported more avoidant PTS symptoms and being more upset by the attacks than European‐American children. Girls reported being more upset than boys. Prior internalizing, externalizing, social competence and self‐esteem were related to post‐attack PTS; and child inhibitory control, assessed prior to the 9/11 attacks, demonstrated a trend towards an association with post‐attack PTS symptoms controlling for prior levels of symptomatology. PTS predicted child‐report anxiety and conduct problem symptoms at follow‐up, approximately 6 months after 9/11.

Conclusions:  Children experiencing a major disaster at a distance or indirectly through media exposure demonstrated worries and PTS symptoms suggesting that communities need to attend to children's mental health needs in response to national or regional disasters. Pre‐disaster symptomatology or low self‐regulation may render children more vulnerable in response to a disaster, and immediate post‐disaster responses predict subsequent symptomatology. These variables might be used in the identification of children in need of intervention.