bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Five cases of dizygotic triplet pregnancy following assisted reproductive techniques
Authors: KAWAMURA TOSHIHIRO , GOTO TAEKO , MORI MICHIKO , ARICHI AKANE , TAJIMA YUKO , KARASAWA YASUHIRO , SUGA KAHORI , IKUMI SACHIKO , ISHIKAWA SEIKA , KAWAMURA MAKIKO
Published: March 2005

Of 816 patients who became clinically pregnant by assisted reproductive techniques between September 2000 and August 2004, we experienced 10 cases (1.2%) of monozygotic twinning, and in five of these 10 cases, implantation of another embryo resulted in dizygotic triplets. Here, we report these five cases of dizygotic triplets. Fresh embryo transfer was performed in all five cases. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection or assisted hatching was not carried out in these cases. Blastocyst transfer was performed in three cases. Three embryos were transferred in case 1 (40‐year‐old female). While only two embryos were transferred in the other four cases so as to avoid triplet pregnancy, triplet pregnancies were confirmed. Triplet pregnancy was maintained in three cases, but in the other two cases, monochorionic twinning resulted in miscarriage during the first trimester. For the three patients who delivered the triplets, while the postnatal growth has been normal for all nine babies, the mothers were hospitalized for a long period of time, and an emergency cesarean section was performed on two patients. Because triplet pregnancy could not be completely prevented even when only two embryos were transferred, physicians should be sure to obtain informed consent in similar cases. (Reprod Med Biol 2005; 4: 59–64)
An experimental trial to establish risk communication as a tool to decrease the risk by exposure to multiple chemicals for the future generations
Authors: TODAKA EMIKO , SAKURAI KENICHI , MORI CHISATO
Published: March 2005

Background: Recently, it has become clear that fetuses are exposed to multiple chemicals and environmental contaminants. However, it has been reported that allergies among young children have been increasing rapidly in the last few decades, and some congenital anomalies are also increasing. There is no evidence to connect these facts directly, however if adverse health effects are caused by environmental reasons, it could be prevented by early education or risk communication.

Methods: The authors gave lectures to students at a high school and universities, and carried out a questionnaire survey before and after the lectures to see the change of the students’ knowledge, attitude and behavior. The total number of high‐school students and university students was 47 and 605, respectively.

Results: It became clear that all the levels of knowledge, attitude and behavior were elevated, and they were more elevated among high school students than university students. It was suggested that risk communication at a younger age is important to elevate people's attention and motivate them, and eventually prevent their future health risk from environmental contaminants.

Conclusion: Risk communication at a young age would be more effective in increasing students’ knowledge, attitude and behavior. (Reprod Med Biol 2005;4: 65–70)
Housing Benefit and Financial Returns to Employment for Tenants in the Social Sector
Authors: GILES CHRISTOPHER , JOHNSON PAUL , MCCRAE JULIAN
Published: March 2005

This paper examines the impact of the UK housing benefit system on the financial returns to employment of people in local authority or Housing Association accommodation. It outlines the current structure of housing benefit and examines its effects on the returns to employment using data from the Family Expenditure Survey. It analyses the consequences of a number of reforms to the current system — lowering social rents, increasing the levels of housing benefit received in work and restricting the amount of rent covered by housing benefit payments. This analysis highlights the trade‐offs involved in various strategies available for restructuring the present system.

JEL classification: H3, H4, J3.
Competition in Electricity Supply: Will ‘1998’ Be Worth It?
Authors: GREEN RICHARD , MCDANIEL TANGA
Published: March 2005

Starting in 1998, the electricity market in England and Wales will be opened up to full competition, and all consumers will be allowed to choose their electricity supplier. This promises to result in lower prices, but there will be additional transactions costs exceeding £100 million a year for the first five years. Relative to a counterfactual without competition, there are likely to be large transfers from electricity companies (and the coal industry) to consumers, but the companies lose more than consumers gain. This conclusion might be reversed if competitive pressure leads to significant additional cost savings in the future.

JEL classification: L94
Are Sulfurous Soil Amendments (S0, Fe(II)SO4, Fe(III)SO4) an Effective Tool in the Restoration of Heathland and Acidic Grassland after Four Decades of Rock Phosphate Fertilization?
Authors: Tibbett M. , Diaz A.
Published: March 2005

This paper deals with the complex issue of reversing long‐term improvements of fertility in soils derived from heathlands and acidic grasslands using sulfur‐based amendments. The experiment was conducted on a former heathland and acid grassland in the U.K. that was heavily fertilized and limed with rock phosphate, chalk, and marl. The experimental work had three aims. First, to determine whether sulfurous soil amendments are able to lower pH to a level suitable for heathland and acidic grassland re‐creation (approximately 3 pH units). Second, to determine what effect the soil amendments have on the available pool of some basic cations and some potentially toxic acidic cations that may affect the plant community. Third, to determine whether the addition of Fe to the soil system would sequester PO4− ions that might be liberated from rock phosphate by the experimental treatments. The application of S0 and Fe(II)SO4− to the soil was able to reduce pH. However, only the highest S0 treatment (2,000 kg/ha S) lowered pH sufficiently for heathland restoration purposes but effectively so. Where pH was lowered, basic cations were lost from the exchangeable pool and replaced by acidic cations. Where Fe was added to the soil, there was no evidence of PO4− sequestration from soil test data (Olsen P), but sequestration was apparent because of lower foliar P in the grass sward. The ability of the forb Rumex acetosella to apparently detoxify Al3+, prevalent in acidified soils, appeared to give it a competitive advantage over other less tolerant species. We would anticipate further changes in plant community structure through time, driven by Al3+ toxicity, leading to the competitive exclusion of less tolerant species. This, we suggest, is a key abiotic driver in the restoration of biotic (acidic plant) communities.
Visions of Nature and Environmental Sustainability: Shellfish Harvesting in the Dutch Wadden Sea
Authors: Swart J. A. A , Van Der Windt H.J
Published: March 2005

The concept of sustainability has several, sometimes contrasting, meanings that may generate confusion, misunderstanding, and conflict concerning conservation and restoration practices. It is therefore desirable to clarify the concept of sustainability, thereby potentially contributing to mutual understanding, especially when social conflicts arise. This article discusses a recently published typology of three conceptions of sustainability that range from economic to ecocentric valuations of nature. We argue that the typology is incomplete because it does not include the arcadian approaches. For this reason, we introduce a “tripolar model” for conceptions of sustainability, applying it to the debate on shellfish harvesting in the Dutch Wadden Sea. We conclude that the particular visions or conceptions of sustainability held by relevant actors may have an impact on strategies for conservation.
Functionally Graded Materials Under Severe Thermal Environments
Authors: Wang B. L. , Mai Y.‐W. , Zhang X. H.
Published: March 2005

Thermal shock strengths of a plate of a functionally graded material (FGM) are analyzed when the plate is suddenly exposed to an environmental medium of different temperature. A finite element/mode superposition method is proposed to solve the time‐dependent temperature field. The admissible temperature jump that the material can sustain is studied using the stress‐based and fracture mechanics‐based criteria. The critical parameters governing the level of the transient thermal stress in the medium are identified. The strength of FGMs under transient thermal stresses is analyzed using both maximum local tensile stress and maximum stress intensity factor criteria.
Synthesis and Characterization of Several α‐Silicon Nitride Nanostructures
Authors: Zhang Hua , Zhang Shuyuan , Pan Shuan , Hou Jianguo
Published: March 2005

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) nanowires and nanobelts have been successfully prepared via direct crystallization of amorphous Si3N4 nanoparticles under high temperature in a N2 flow. The products were characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, high‐resolution electron microscopy, and electron diffraction. They are pure α‐phase hexagonal single‐crystal structures. The nanowires are long and smooth; nanobelts are long and twisted. In our samples, there exist some special nanostructures, such as wire‐inserted hexagonal nanosheet and hollow‐chain‐shaped structure. The different growth modes were understood upon the observations and characterization of those microstructures. The solid–liquid–solid growth mechanism is also discussed.
PUVA‐gel vs. PUVA‐bath therapy for severe recalcitrant palmoplantar dermatoses
Authors: Schiener Ralf , Gottlöber Petra , Müller Boris , Williams Stefanie , Pillekamp Hans , Peter Ralf Uwe , Kerscher Martina
Published: March 2005

Background/Purpose: In order to avoid unwanted effects of systemic psoralen and ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy, various topical PUVA treatment modalities have been developed and are being increasingly used. However, up to now very few controlled studies comparing the therapeutic efficacy of different topical photochemotherapy modalities are available. Thus, the aim of our study was to compare the clinical efficacy of conventional PUVA‐bath therapy to topical PUVA‐gel therapy in patients with recalcitrant dermatoses of the palms and soles.

Methods: Twenty patients with severe palmoplantar dermatoses or localized psoriatic plaques were enrolled in our observer‐blinded, randomized half‐sided study. The treatment modalities compared were: (i) aqueous 8‐methoxypsoralen (8‐MOP)‐containing gel plus broadband UVA irradiation (PUVA‐gel therapy) and (ii) 8‐MOP bath of the hands and/or feet plus broadband UVA (PUVA‐bath therapy).

Results: On the body half, which was randomized to PUVA‐gel therapy, the median Area and Severity Index for palmoplantar dermatoses (ASIppd) decreased from 28 (range 6–56) to 1.5 (range 1–37, P=0.00) after a median 33 (13–49) irradiations compared with a reduction from 26.5 (range 6–52.5) to 1.5 (range 0–38, P=0.00) for PUVA‐bath therapy. Both improvements of ASIppd scores were found to be statistically significant, with no significant difference between PUVA‐gel and PUVA‐bath therapy. Severe phototoxic reactions such as strong erythema, blistering and/or pain were not observed in any patient.

Conclusion: PUVA‐gel therapy seems to be an effective therapeutic alternative to conventional PUVA‐bath therapy in treating localized dermatoses of the palms and soles. The advantage of PUVA‐gel therapy is reduced organizational efforts and expenses.
Therapie des Erysipels in Deutschland und Österreich – Ergebnisse einer Umfrage an deutschen und österreichischen Hautkliniken
Authors: Brennecke Sabine , Hartmann Martin , Schöfer Helmut , Rasokat Heinrich , Tschachler Erwin , Brockmeyer Norbert H.
Published: March 2005

Hintergrund:Das Erysipel ist eine auf die Kutis und Subkutis beschränkte meist durch Streptokokken verursachte, schwere Weichteilinfektion, bei der eine antimikrobielle Therapie indiziert ist. In der Literatur sind viele verschiedene Therapieschemata beschrieben, die überwiegend auf empirischen Daten basieren und nur teilweise durch Studien belegt sind.

Material und Methoden:Ziel der vorgestellten Erhebung war es, mittels eines Fragebogens, die Erysipelbehandlung in Deutschland und Österreich abzubilden und hieraus Therapieempfehlungen abzuleiten.

Ergebnisse und Schlußfolgerung:In den befragten Kliniken wird das Erysipel präferentiell intravenös unter stationären Bedingungen behandelt. Am häufigsten wird in der „first line”‐Therapie Penicillin G (80 %) eingesetzt. Daneben werden Aminopenicilline (11 %), Cephalosporine (16,5 %) und Isoxazolylpenicilline (6,9 %) eingesetzt. Als „second line”‐Therapie werden hauptsächlich Makrolide (63,5 %), Clindamycin (52,5 %), Penicilline (18,5 %), Cephalosporine (40 %) und Gyrasehemmer (20,5 %) sowie seltener Carbapeneme, Tetrazykline, Nitroimidazole, Glykopeptitantibiotika, Aminoglykoside, Cotrimoxazol, Fusidinsäure und Fosfomycin angewendet. Die Therapiedauer beträgt im Durchschnitt 10 Tage. Als adjuvante Maßnahmen kommen eine Antikoagulation, nichtsteroidale Antiphlogistika, Lokaltherapien, Ruhigstellung und eine Sanierung der Eintrittspforte zum Einsatz.
The effects of anaemia as a programming agent in the fetal heart
Authors: Davis L. , Thornburg K. L. , Giraud G. D.
Published: March 2005

The intrauterine environment plays a powerful role in determining the life‐long risk of cardiovascular disease. A number of stressors are well known to affect the development of the cardiovascular system in utero including over/under maternal nutrition, excess glucocorticoid and chronic hypoxia. Chronic fetal anaemia in sheep is a complex stressor that alters cardiac loading conditions, causes hypoxic stress and stimulates large changes in flow to specific tissues, including large increases in resting coronary blood flow and conductance. Decreased viscosity can account for approximately half of the increased flow. It appears that immature hearts are ‘plastic’ in that increases in coronary conductance with fetal anaemia persist into adulthood even if the anaemia is corrected before birth. These large changes in conductance are possible only through extensive remodelling of the coronary tree. Adult hearts that were once anaemic in utero are more resistant to hypoxic stress as adults but it is not known whether such an adaptation would be deleterious in later life. These studies indicate the need for investigation into the basic mechanisms of coronary tree remodelling in the immature myocardium. New information on these mechanisms is likely to lead to better prevention of and therapies for adult‐onset coronary disease.
Analytical Study of Appropriate Design for High-Grade Induction Bend Pipes Subjected to Large Ground Deformation
Authors: Yatabe Hiroshi , Fukuda Naoki , Masuda Tomoki , Toyoda Masao
Published: March 2005

In order to clarify the significant parameters to control the deformability of high-grade induction bend pipes, finite element analyses simulating the deformation behavior subjected to an internal pressure and bending moment were carried out. Parametric studies were conducted using the finite element models with various mechanical properties and geometric imperfections. The change in the integrity of the buried pipeline due to the quality of the induction bend pipe was then quantitatively examined. Consequently, this study indicated that the mechanical properties, the dimensions and tolerance and the properties of the “transition” part should be appropriately designed in proportion to the ground deformation.
Properties of atmospheric pressure plasmas with microwave excitations for plasma processing
Authors: Nagai Mikio , Hori Masaru , Goto Toshio
Published: March 2005

Atmospheric pressure plasmas with microwave excitations were successfully produced in dielectric barrier micro plasmas employing N2, Ar, or He gas. N2 optical emissions of the second positive system were measured for evaluating the gas temperature. The gas temperatures of the plasmas could be much less than 1000 K. Blackbody emissions were measured by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer for evaluating the electrode temperature. Temperatures of both the gas and electrode were evaluated by fitting the experimental results with calculations. The gas temperature in the N2 plasma was notably increased with the discharge time as compared with those in Ar and He plasmas. It was found that the pulsed discharge and the water-cooled electrode were effective for reducing the gas temperature. The pulsed discharge decreased the gas temperature from 900 to 600 K, and the water-cooled electrode decreased the gas temperature by more than 200 K. Controlling the temperature of the electrodes was the most effective technique to reduce the gas temperature, because the gas temperature was in equilibrium with the electrode temperature.
Inductively coupled plasmas: Optimizing the inductive-coupling efficiency for large-area source design
Authors: Colpo P. , Meziani T. , Rossi F.
Published: March 2005

An inductively coupled plasma (ICP) source enabling high-density plasma generation was developed for large area processing. Technological difficulties related to the scaling up of the coil antenna, dielectric vacuum window, and gas distribution have been addressed. The proposed solution consists in using a magnetic core to concentrate the magnetic field produced by the antenna. Both are placed within the plasma chamber, and the gas injection is done through the magnetic pole. A 75×72-cm2 plasma source has been designed based on this solution. First, the electrical operation and coil geometries were optimized. The results show that the use of a low excitation frequency (2MHz) increases the electrical efficiency of the magnetic core, enabling a higher plasma-density generation than at the classical radio frequency of 13.56MHz. The antenna configuration providing the better uniformity is composed of three loops connected in parallel. Some tuning inductances in series with each loop were added to balance the rf power, i.e., the plasma density over the reactor area. Deviation from plasma uniformities better than 12% over 60×60cm2 were achieved. Preliminary SiO2 etching experiments with CF4 gas show that the etching uniformity deviation reaches 7% over 60×60cm2 with etching rates larger than 150nm∕min. These results are very promising and open the way to the successful scale-up of ICP sources to large areas.
Feedback control of chlorine inductively coupled plasma etch processing
Authors: Lin Chaung , Leou Keh-Chyang , Shiao Kai-Mu
Published: March 2005

Feedback control has been applied to poly-Si etch processing using a chlorine inductively coupled plasma. Since the positive ion flux and ion energy incident upon the wafer surface are the key factors that influence the etch rate, the ion current and the root mean square (rms) rf voltage on the wafer stage, which are measured using an impedance meter connected to the wafer stage, are adopted as the controlled variables to enhance etch rate. The actuators are two 13.56 MHz rf power generators, which adjust ion density and ion energy, respectively. The results of closed-loop control show that the advantages of feedback control can be achieved. For example, with feedback control, etch rate variation under the transient chamber wall condition is reduced roughly by a factor of 2 as compared to the open-loop case. In addition, the capability of the disturbance rejection was also investigated. For a gas pressure variation of 20%, the largest etch rate variation is about 2.4% with closed-loop control as compared with as large as about 6% variation using open-loop control. Also the effect of ion current and rms rf voltage on etch rate was studied using 22 factorial design whose results were used to derive a model equation. The obtained formula was used to adjust the set point of ion current and rf voltage so that the desired etch rate was obtained.
Worldwide Phylogeography of Wild Boar Reveals Multiple Centers of Pig Domestication
Authors: Larson Greger , Dobney Keith , Albarella Umberto , Fang Meiying , Matisoo-Smith Elizabeth , Robins Judith , Lowden Stewart , Finlayson Heather , Brand Tina , Willerslev Eske , Rowley-Conwy Peter , Andersson Leif , Cooper Alan
Published: March 2005

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequences from 686 wild and domestic pig specimens place the origin of wild boar in island Southeast Asia (ISEA), where they dispersed across Eurasia. Previous morphological and genetic evidence suggested pig domestication took place in a limited number of locations (principally the Near East and Far East). In contrast, new genetic data reveal multiple centers of domestication across Eurasia and that European, rather than Near Eastern, wild boar are the principal source of modern European domestic pigs.
Kinetics of Local and Systemic Immune Responses after Vaginal Immunization with Recombinant Cholera Toxin B Subunit in Humans
Authors: Wassen Lotta , Jertborn Marianne
Published: March 2005

Vaginal vaccination seems to be the best strategy for inducing specific immunoglobulin A (IgA) and IgG antibody responses in the female genital tract. The relative efficiencies of one, two, and three vaginal doses of recombinant cholera toxin B subunit (CTB) in generating mucosal and systemic immune responses in healthy women were evaluated, and the kinetics of the immune responses were monitored for responding volunteers for up to 12 months after the last vaccination. A single dose of CTB failed to generate CTB-specific IgA antibody responses in cervical secretions. Two vaccinations induced significant increases in IgA antitoxin titers in seven of nine volunteers, and four volunteers also developed IgG antitoxin responses. The magnitudes of the responses were 20-fold for IgA antitoxin and 7.1-fold for IgG antitoxin. A third vaccination did not significantly increase the antitoxin responses, although the frequency of IgG responses was slightly higher than that after the second vaccination. In serum, CTB-specific antibodies were observed already after a single vaccination. However, two vaccinations were required to induce marked IgA as well as IgG antitoxin titer increases in the majority of volunteers. The postvaccination levels of antitoxin antibodies in serum were comparable after two and three vaccinations. At 12 months after vaccination, significantly elevated IgA and IgG antitoxin levels in cervical secretions could still be detected in approximately half of the volunteers who had initially responded to the vaccine. Antitoxin titer increases in serum were found in most of the vaccinees at follow-up.
Impacts of altered benthic invertebrate communities on the feeding ecology of yellow perch (Perca flavescens) in metal-contaminated lakes
Authors: Kövecses J , Sherwood G D , Rasmussen J B
Published: March 2005

Metal contamination can disrupt trophic links in food webs by altering the taxonomic composition and size structure of benthic macroinvertebrate communities. Benthic macroinvertebrates and yellow perch (Perca flavescens) were collected from six lakes along a gradient of cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) contamination in Quebec, Canada. The two most contaminated lakes had significantly lower densities of several benthic macroinvertebrate taxa and significantly lower Shannon's index than less contaminated lakes. The stomach contents of perch from the most contaminated lakes were less diverse, with a greater reliance on chironomids and (or) zooplankton than perch from other study lakes. The size of prey in perch from the most contaminated lakes did not increase with age and the mean prey size was smaller than in other, less contaminated lakes. Perch from lakes with medium to low levels of contamination weighed significantly more than perch from lakes with high levels of contamination. This reduction in growth is attributed to the increased costs of foraging on a simplified prey base in metal-contaminated systems.
Determination of optimal riparian forest buffer dimensions for stream biotalandscape association models using multimetric and multivariate responses
Authors: Frimpong Emmanuel A , Sutton Trent M , Lim Kyoung J , Hrodey Peter J , Engel Bernard A , Simon Thomas P , Lee John G , Le Master Dennis C
Published: March 2005

The dimensions of riparian buffers selected for stream biotalandscape association models determine correlation strength and subsequent model interpretation. Efforts have been made to optimize buffer dimensions incorporated into models, but none has explicitly determined a single optimum based on both longitudinal and lateral buffer dimensions. We applied partial correlation and multivariate linear regression on functional fish community response attributes and the index of biotic integrity using stream samples (N = 107) from the Eastern Corn Belt Plain Ecoregion of Indiana, USA. Land-cover data in digital format were processed in geographic information systems for an area covering 300 m on either side of selected streams and within 2000 m longitudinally. The optimal buffer dimension for the study area was 30 m laterally and 600 m longitudinally, with a partial correlation of 0.29 (P = 0.002), and there was agreement in the partial correlation and multiple regression models. The longitudinal dimension was more conclusively determined, but the lateral dimension was optimum only with respect to the resolution of the land-use data used. Based on these results, we propose the use of this approach to optimize the riparian buffer parameter in landscape models.
Methods of interpretation of borehole falling-head tests performed in compacted clay liners
Authors: Chiasson Paul
Published: March 2005

The interpretation of falling-head tests in cased boreholes is discussed. These tests are commonly used to measure hydraulic conductivity of compacted clay liners and are often part of the construction quality assurance program. Three methods of interpretation are reviewed with data sets collected from real tests. Two of these methods have been the subject of past research by other authors: the Hvorslev, or time-lag, method and the velocity method. After the limitations of these two approaches have been underlined, a third method is proposed. It uses a best linear unbiased estimator to fit the theoretical head difference function in a plot of falling water column elevation as a function of time (Zt method). The Hvorslev method is found unreliable and is not recommended. The velocity method is theoretically sound, but statistical uncertainty can become high when this method is used in testing materials with low hydraulic conductivity, such as clay liners. Materials with low hydraulic conductivity tend to produce scattered velocity plots, creating considerable uncertainty for the estimated k value. The proposed Zt method is less sensitive to inaccuracies in measurements, yielding a more reproducible result. An interpretation method for stages I and II of two-stage borehole tests is also proposed. This method yields the anisotropy of the liner and the vertical hydraulic conductivity. As a result of inaccuracies in measurements and limited difference between the geometries of stages I and II, the computed anisotropy exhibits significant uncertainty.Key words: clay liners, clay covers, hydraulic conductivity, permeability, in situ test, anisotropy, interpretation.
Short- and long-term sharp cone tests in clay
Authors: Ladanyi Branko , Longtin Hugo
Published: March 2005

A recently developed in situ testing method, called the sharp cone test, which is in fact a continuous and automated version of the pressuremeter test, consists of pushing a low-angle truncated cone into a smaller diameter prebored or self-bored pilot hole. As the cone descends, it causes a continuous enlargement of the pilot hole, which, with proper instrumentation, can be translated into a relationship between radial pressure and radial (or shear) strain, similar to the expansion curve of a pressuremeter test. The present paper describes the use in the field of two new versions of this instrument: the first one with 2° taper, having on its lateral surface four total pressure transducers and a pore pressure transducer; and the second one with two successive taper angles of 1° and 2°, having five total pressure transducers installed at various distances from the tip. The latter probe was found to be capable of continuously furnishing five points on a pressure-expansion curve, which can be translated into a stressstrain relationship by using conventional pressuremeter data-processing procedures. The first probe, in turn, was used for simultaneously observing the decrease with time of both total lateral pressure and pore pressure during strain-holding periods of the test. In 2002, the two newly designed instruments were tested in a thick layer of saturated clay at a site near Montréal. A comparison of the results with those obtained at the same site by some other types of tests is very encouraging.Key words: field tests, clay, sharp cone, pressuremeter, short term, long term.
A practical design approach for reducing the occurrence of shallow slides in cohesionless till highway embankments
Authors: Konrad J -M , Grondin G
Published: March 2005

Shallow slides in cohesionless till occurred in several highway fills in the province of Quebec, Canada, following spring thaw and sometimes during rainy autumns. This study has shown that the strength parameters of cohesionless tills can be related to the liquid limit for both drained and undrained conditions. These relationships can be used as input in stability analyses to readily yield design values of stable slopes. Tills with liquid limits between 15% and 25% are all very susceptible to liquefaction flow failures if loosely compacted and saturated. To reduce the risk of shallow slides in the cohesionless till embankments used for highways, a stabilizing coarse-grained fill placed atop of the till embankment appears to be an efficient technique. Design charts of minimum thickness of the stabilizing fill at the base of the till slope were developed using available stability programs and an empirically derived strength of liquefied tills.Key words: cohesionless, till, liquefaction, stability, slope, skin.
Variability in fatty acid composition of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) blubber as a function of body site, season, and reproductive state
Authors: Samuel Asha M , Worthy Graham A.J
Published: March 2005

Odontocete blubber has been shown to be variable in composition and can be separated into strata visually, histologically, and biochemically. The purpose of this study was to examine fatty acid composition of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus (Montagu, 1821)) blubber, and determine if differences exist between body sites, reproductive states, and (or) seasons. The influence of these variables on blubber composition could aid in the creation of a model that would use fatty acid signature analysis to evaluate diet in free-ranging populations. Blubber samples were obtained from freshly dead animals along the Texas and Louisiana coastlines. Samples from nine body sites were analyzed to investigate site variability, and from one site to evaluate differences due to season, reproductive state, and blubber layer. All body sites of animals sampled in the winter were statistically indistinguishable, indicating that biopsy samples could be obtained from any location on the animal for fatty acid analysis during this season; however, three distinct blubber layers were identifiable, and reproductive states were significantly different in terms of fatty acid composition. Seasonal differences in fatty acid composition were also highly significant for all one-site inner blubber layer samples. Ultimately, the differences in fatty acid composition could have resulted from dietary or physiological factors and need to be examined further.
X-chromosome mapping experiments suggest occurrence of cryptic species in the tsetse fly Glossina palpalis palpalis
Authors: Gooding R H , Solano P , Ravel S
Published: March 2005

Using flies from colonies of Glossina palpalis palpalis (Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830) (Diptera: Glossinidae) that originated in Nigeria and Bas-Zaire, the two microsatellite loci Gpg19.62 and Gpg55.3 have been added to the X-chromosome map, thus increasing to seven the number of loci mapped on that chromosome. During the mapping and other crossing experiments, sterile F1 and backcross males were found. Similarities between the patterns of sterility found in the present study and those occurring during hybridization of some subspecies of tsetse suggest that the nominal taxon G. p. palpalis may contain cryptic taxa. Differences in the width of the postgonite head of males from the two colonies were consistent with this suggestion.
Mate choice and visibility in the expression of a sexually dimorphic trait in a goodeid fish (Xenotoca variatus)
Authors: Moyaho Alejandro , Garcia Constantino Macías , Ávila-Luna Edgar
Published: March 2005

Male Xenotoca variatus (Bean, 1887) have shiny scales ("speckles") on their flanks, the number of which varies within and among populations. Using fish from two localities with turbid water and two with transparent water, we tested whether differences in the number of speckles were associated with differences either in water turbidity or with the expression of female mate choice. We also tested whether female mate choice was influenced by water turbidity. In our sample the number of speckles and water turbidity were not associated. A test including all the populations in a combined (factorial) analysis showed that in clear water females exhibit a preference for visiting the male with the largest number of speckles of a pair, though no population differences were detected. When tested in clear water, females spent more time close to a male with more speckles; in this instance, males were from a clear-water locality and possessed many speckles. Our findings suggest that female mate choice might not contribute to the geographical variation in speckle number, but may instead be constrained by the transmissibility of the signal.
EQUILIBRATION OF A HARD-DISKS SYSTEM
Authors: SOMSIKOV V. M.
Published: March 2005

The process of equilibration of a colliding hard-disks system is studied in the framework of classical mechanics. The method consists of dividing the nonequilibrium system into the interacting subsystems; the evolution one of these subsystems is analyzed employing generalized Lagrange and Liouville equations. The subsystem–subsystem interaction force is considered as an evolution parameter. The mechanism by which its system equilibrates is described.
$\sqrt{5}:2$ MODE INTERACTIONS ON A SQUARE LATTICE
Authors: WINTERBOTTOM DAVID M.
Published: March 2005

In many diverse pattern-forming systems, the observed arrangements are square-symmetric or hexagonal. However, while many investigations have been devoted separately to the competition between these patterns and rolls, important questions still remain regarding their competition with one another.

This paper demonstrates that both square and hexagonal patterns can be accounted for by the resonant interaction of two sets of modes with wave numbers in the ratio [Formula: see text], aligned to lie on a square lattice. The behavior of this system is investigated by expanding about the multiple bifurcation point where the stability of both sets of modes is marginal. The corresponding amplitude equations, constructed through simple symmetry arguments, are shown to encompass various forms of hexagonal and square-symmetric patterns within a single framework. This framework is then applied to the Swift–Hohenberg partial differential equation, where both hexagons and squares with up–down-asymmetry are found to occur subcritically.
THE PUBLIC HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE AND OUR NATION'S HEALTH
Authors: Baker Edward L. , Potter Margaret A. , Jones Deborah L. , Mercer Shawna L. , Cioffi Joan P. , Green Lawrence W. , Halverson Paul K. , Lichtveld Maureen Y. , Fleming David W.
Published: March 2005

▪ Abstract   Threats to Americans' health—including chronic disease, emerging infectious disease, and bioterrorism—are present and growing, and the public health system is responsible for addressing these challenges. Public health systems in the United States are built on an infrastructure of workforce, information systems, and organizational capacity; in each of these areas, however, serious deficits have been well documented. Here we draw on two 2003 Institute of Medicine reports and present evidence for current threats and the weakness of our public health infrastructure. We describe major initiatives to systematically assess, invest in, rebuild, and evaluate workforce competency, information systems, and organizational capacity through public policy making, practical initiatives, and practice-oriented research. These initiatives are based on applied science and a shared federal-state approach to public accountability. We conclude that a newly strengthened public health infrastructure must be sustained in the future through a balancing of the values inherent in the federal system.
Regulation of smooth muscle calcium sensitivity: KCl as a calcium-sensitizing stimulus
Authors: Ratz Paul H. , Berg Krystina M. , Urban Nicole H. , Miner Amy S.
Published: March 2005

KCl has long been used as a convenient stimulus to bypass G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) and activate smooth muscle by a highly reproducible and relatively “simple” mechanism involving activation of voltage-operated Ca2+ channels that leads to increases in cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i), Ca2+-calmodulin-dependent myosin light chain (MLC) kinase activation, MLC phosphorylation and contraction. This KCl-induced stimulus-response coupling mechanism is a standard tool-set used in comparative studies to explore more complex mechanisms generated by activation of GPCRs. One area where this approach has been especially productive is in studies designed to understand Ca2+ sensitization, the relationship between [Ca2+]i and force produced by GPCR agonists. Studies done in the late 1980s demonstrated that a unique relationship between stimulus-induced [Ca2+]i and force does not exist: for a given increase in [Ca2+]i, GPCR activation can produce greater force than KCl, and relaxant agents can produce the opposite effect to cause Ca2+ desensitization. Such changes in Ca2+ sensitivity are now known to involve multiple cell signaling strategies, including translocation of proteins from cytosol to plasma membrane, and activation of enzymes, including RhoA kinase and protein kinase C. However, recent studies show that KCl can also cause Ca2+ sensitization involving translocation and activation of RhoA kinase. Rather than complicating the Ca2+ sensitivity story, this surprising finding is already providing novel insights into mechanisms regulating Ca2+ sensitivity of smooth muscle contraction. KCl as a “simple” stimulus promises to remain a standard tool for smooth muscle cell physiologists, whose focus is to understand mechanisms regulating Ca2+ sensitivity.
Endothelial dysfunction in Type 2 diabetes correlates with deregulated expression of the tail-anchored membrane protein SLMAP
Authors: Ding Hong , Howarth Andrew G. , Pannirselvam Malarvannan , Anderson Todd J. , Severson David L. , Wiehler William B. , Triggle Chris R. , Tuana Balwant S.
Published: March 2005

The Type 2 diabetic db/ db mouse experiences vascular dysfunction typified by changes in the contraction and relaxation profiles of small mesenteric arteries (SMAs). Contractions of SMAs from the db/ db mouse to the α1-adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine (PE) were significantly enhanced, and acetylcholine (ACh)-induced relaxations were significantly depressed. Drug treatment of db/ db mice with a nonthiazolidinedione peroxisome prolifetor-activated receptor-γ agonist and insulin sensitizing agent 2-[2-(4-phenoxy-2-propylphenoxy)ethyl]indole-5-acetic acid (COOH) completely prevented the changes in endothelium-dependent relaxation, but, with the discontinuation of therapy, endothelial dysfunction returned. Dysfunctional SMAs were found to specifically upregulate the expression of a 35-kDa isoform of sarcolemmal membrane-associated protein (SLMAP), which is a component of the excitation-contraction coupling apparatus and implicated in the regulation of membrane function in muscle cells. Real-time PCR revealed high SLMAP mRNA levels in the db/ db microvasculature, which were markedly downregulated during COOH treatment but elevated again when drug therapy was discontinued. These data reveal that the microvasculature in db/ db mice undergoes significant changes in vascular function with the endothelial component of vascular dysfunction specifically correlating with the overexpression of SLMAP. Thus changes in SLMAP expression may be an important indicator for microvascular disease associated with Type 2 diabetes.
Effects of gender and hypovolemia on sympathetic neural responses to orthostatic stress
Authors: Fu Qi , Witkowski Sarah , Okazaki Kazunobu , Levine Benjamin D.
Published: March 2005

We tested the hypothesis that women have blunted sympathetic neural responses to orthostatic stress compared with men, which may be elicited under hypovolemic conditions. Muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and hemodynamics were measured in eight healthy young women and seven men in supine position and during 6 min of 60° head-up tilt (HUT) under normovolemic and hypovolemic conditions (randomly), with ∼4-wk interval. Acute hypovolemia was produced by diuretic (furosemide) administration ∼2 h before testing. Orthostatic tolerance was determined by progressive lower body negative pressure to presyncope. We found that furosemide produced an ∼13% reduction in plasma volume, causing a similar increase in supine MSNA in men and women (mean ± SD of 5 ± 7 vs. 6 ± 5 bursts/min; P = 0.895). MSNA increased during HUT and was greater in the hypovolemic than in the normovolemic condition (32 ± 6 bursts/min in normovolemia vs. 44 ± 15 bursts/min in hypovolemia in men, P = 0.055; 35 ± 9 vs. 45 ± 8 bursts/min in women, P < 0.001); these responses were not different between the genders (gender effect: P = 0.832 and 0.814 in normovolemia and hypovolemia, respectively). Total peripheral resistance increased proportionately with increases in MSNA during HUT; these responses were similar between the genders. However, systolic blood pressure was lower, whereas diastolic blood pressure was similar in women compared with men during HUT, which was associated with a smaller stroke volume or stroke index. Orthostatic tolerance was lower in women, especially under hypovolemic conditions. These results indicate that men and women have comparable sympathetic neural responses during orthostatic stress under normovolemic and hypovolemic conditions. The lower orthostatic tolerance in women is predominantly because of a smaller stroke volume, presumably due to less cardiac filling during orthostasis, especially under hypovolemic conditions, which may overwhelm the vasomotor reserve available for vasoconstriction or precipitate neurally mediated sympathetic withdrawal and syncope.
Induction of Experimental Allergic Encephalomyelitis in a Low-Susceptible Albino Oxford Rat Strain by Somatostatin Analogue SMS 201-995
Authors: Muhvić Damir , Barac-Latas Vesna , Rukavina Daniel , Radošević-Stašić Biserka
Published: March 2005

Objective: The effect of the somatostatin analogue SMS 201-995 (octreotide; OCT) on the course of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in the relatively resistant Albino Oxford (AO) strain of rats was studied. Methods: Animals were actively immunized with bovine brain homogenate in complete Freund’s adjuvant. OCT was given subcutaneously in the hind legs on days 7, 8 and 9 after immunization, at a dose of 3 × 5 µg/kg/day. Rats in control groups were treated with saline or were left untreated. EAE was scored clinically and immunophenotypically, estimating by flow cytometry the changes in the popliteal lymph nodes (PLN) and spleen and monitoring immunohistologically the brain sections of rats recovered from disease. Results: In control AO rats, EAE was induced in only 2 of 22 rats (9%). In OCT-treated rats, however, EAE developed in 11 of 20 rats (55%), in comparison with 3 of 17 saline-treated animals (17%) (p < 0.05). In PLN of OCT-treated rats during the clinical course of EAE, a decreased proportion of OX8+ cells was seen, followed by increases in OX39+ and W3/25+ cells on days 17 and 26. In spleen, OCT decreased the proportion of OX1+, OX39+ and OX8+ cells (on days 12 and/or 17), and increased the proportion of OX39+ cells on days 26 and 31. In the brain sections of saline-treated rats recovered from EAE, numerous Mac-1+, Mac-3+ and OX8+ cells were found. These cells were, however, absent in OCT-treated rats; instead, several W3/25+ cells were noticed. Conclusions: These data imply that OCT increases the susceptibility of AO rats to EAE, interfering with specific and/or nonspecific defense mechanisms operating in both the initial and recovery phase of EAE.
Immunological Study of IFNβ-1a-Treated and Untreated Multiple Sclerosis Patients: Clarifying IFNβ Mechanisms and Establishing Specific Dendritic Cell Immunotherapy
Authors: Berghella Anna Maria , Totaro Rocco , Pellegrini Patrizia , Contasta Ida , Russo Tomassina , Carolei Antonio , Adorno Domenico
Published: March 2005

Objectives: A comparative immunological evaluation of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients receiving IFNβ treatment and patients who are not receiving treatment may help clarify IFNβ neurological mechanisms and lead the way to an effective dendritic cell (DC) immunotherapy. This type of study helps clarify the pathological function of T cells and DCs within the TH1/TH2/TH3 network as well as the specific interactions between TH1/TH2/TH3 cytokines implicated in MS pathological mechanisms and determine the best way of reestablishing the TH1/TH2/TH3 network equilibrium. Methods: We studied network interactions between TH1/TH2/TH3 cytokine levels in serum and supernatants of whole blood and CD14+ monocyte-derived DCs in the remission phase of the disease and in correlation to the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Results: We found that TH1 dysregulation results in a disruption of the maturation and activation of dendritic and T cells, and a lack of T-regulating cells for the induction of self-tolerance; IFNβ mechanisms restore regulation by reestablishing the network balance but fail to resolve the disease completely due to in vivo IL12p70 network interactions leading to the deletion of self-aggressive cells. Conclusions: Our results indicate that a specific DC immunotherapy could cure rather than treat MS. The best point to reestablish the normal physiological cycle is at the immature DC stage which can be done in vitro with treated peripheral blood CD14+ cells and used in vivo to stimulate the expansion of specific regulatory T cells.