bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resident Efficiency in a Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Dowd M. Denise , Tarantino Celeste , Barnett Theodore M. , Fitzmaurice Laura , Knapp Jane F.
Published: November 2005

Objectives: To measure the hourly rate of patients evaluated and treated by resident physicians in an academic pediatric emergency department (PED) and examine differences in the rate by subspecialty and year of training. Methods: For all residents rotating in an academic, urban children's hospital PED, the rate of patients seen per hour over the course of their rotation was calculated using an electronic tracking system, EmSTAT, for calendar year 2000. Rates are reported as the mean number of patients seen per resident hour worked. Mean differences are reported for resident subspecialties (emergency medicine, pediatrics, and family practice) and postgraduate year (PGY1–PGY3), and subclass comparisons were made with an analysis of variance test with Tukey's post hoc analysis. Results: A total of 153 residents (63.4% pediatric, 18.9% family practice, and 17.7% emergency medicine) saw 24,414 patients during the study period. The makeup of the group by training year was as follows: PGY1, 20.9%; PGY2, 41.2%; and PGY3, 37.9%. For all residents, the mean rate was 1.02 patients seen per hour (pph). Significant differences in the mean number of patients seen per hour by subspecialty existed, with emergency medicine residents seeing a mean of 1.12 pph, pediatrics residents seeing 1.02 pph, and family practice residents seeing 0.93 pph (mean difference, p < 0.05 for all comparisons). Rates increased by year of training, with PGY1 seeing a mean of 0.95 pph, PGY2 seeing 0.99 pph, and PGY3 seeing 1.09 pph (mean difference, p < 0.05 for all comparisons except PGY1 vs. PGY2). Conclusions: Significant differences in the rate of patients evaluated and treated in the PED exist by resident subspecialty and year of training. Knowing these rates is helpful in evaluation of resident performance, because it allows comparison with peers. Additionally, such information may be useful for residency program evaluators to gauge the amount of patient exposure for residents.
Ifosfamide, Carboplatin, and Etoposide With Midcycle Vincristine Versus Standard Chemotherapy in Patients With Small-Cell Lung Cancer and Good Performance Status: Clinical and Quality-of-Life Results of the British Medical Research Council Multicenter Randomized LU21 Trial
Authors: Thatcher Nicholas , Qian Wendi , Clark Peter I. , Hopwood Penelope , Sambrook Robert J. , Owens Robert , Stephens Richard J. , Girling David J.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

Ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide, and vincristine, alone and in combination, are highly active against small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). This trial was designed to investigate whether survival could be improved by a regimen of all four drugs (ICE-V) compared with standard chemotherapy in patients with SCLC and good performance status, and to assess the patients’ quality of life (QL).

Patients and Methods

Patients were randomly assigned to receive six cycles of either ICE-V at 4-week intervals without dose reduction or standard chemotherapy administered according to local practice. The recommended standard control regimens were cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and etoposide; and cisplatin and etoposide.

Results

A total of 402 patients were randomly assigned, and 350 (87%) patients have died. Overall survival was longer in the ICE-V group (hazard ratio, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.60 to 0.91; P = .0049), median survival was 15.6 months in the ICE-V group and 11.6 months in the control group, and 2-year survival rates were 20% and 11%, respectively. There was no evidence that the relative survival benefit for ICE-V was less in extensive-stage than in limited-stage patients. An increased rate of septicemia was reported in the ICE-V group (15% v 7% in the control group), but this did not result in an increase in reported treatment-related deaths (four patients [2%] in both groups). The findings on QL were broadly similar in both groups, with some benefit in favor of ICE-V.

Conclusion

Compared with standard chemotherapy, the ICE-V regimen improves overall survival without QL penalties, despite an increased but manageable level of toxicity.
Nomograms to Predict Pathologic Complete Response and Metastasis-Free Survival After Preoperative Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Rouzier Roman , Pusztai Lajos , Delaloge Suzette , Gonzalez-Angulo Ana M. , Andre Fabrice , Hess Kenneth R. , Buzdar Aman U. , Garbay Jean-Remi , Spielmann Marc , Mathieu Marie-Christine , Symmans W. Fraser , Wagner Peter , Atallah David , Valero Vicente , Berry Donald A. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To combine clinical variables associated with pathologic complete response (pCR) and distant metastasis–free survival (DMFS) after preoperative chemotherapy (PC) into a prediction nomogram.

Patients and Methods

Data from 496 patients treated with anthracycline PC at the Institut Gustave Roussy were used to develop and calibrate a nomogram for pCR based on multivariate logistic regression. This nomogram was tested on two independent cohorts of patients treated at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. The first cohort (n = 337) received anthracycline; the second cohort (n = 237) received a combination of paclitaxel and anthracycline PC. A separate nomogram to predict DMFS was developed using Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

The pCR nomogram based on clinical stage, estrogen receptor status, histologic grade, and number of preoperative chemotherapy cycles had good discrimination and calibration in the training and the anthracycline-treated validation sets (concordance indices, 0.77, 0.79). In the paclitaxel plus anthracycline group, when the predicted pCR rate was less than 14%, the observed rate was 7.5%; for a predicted rate of ≥ 38%, the actual rate was 85%. For a predicted rate between 14% to 38%, the observed rates were 50% with weekly and 27% with 3-weekly paclitaxel. This indicates that patients with intermediate chemotherapy sensitivity benefit the most from the optimized schedule of paclitaxel. Patients unlikely to achieve pCR to anthracylines remain at low probability for pCR, even after inclusion of paclitaxel. The nomogram for DMFS had a concordance index of 0.72 in the validation set and outperformed other prediction tools (P = .02).

Conclusion

Our nomograms predict pCR accurately and can serve as a basis to integrate future molecular markers into a clinical prediction model.
Pediatric Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor: The Italian and German Soft Tissue Sarcoma Cooperative Group
Authors: Carli Modesto , Ferrari Andrea , Mattke Adrian , Zanetti Ilaria , Casanova Michela , Bisogno Gianni , Cecchetto Giovanni , Alaggio Rita , De Sio Luigi , Koscielniak Eura , Sotti Guido , Treuner Joern
Published: November 2005

Purpose

To assess the value of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in children with malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) and to identify risk factors associated with outcome.

Patients and Methods

A total of 167 untreated eligible patients enrolled onto the Italian and German studies between 1975 and 1998 entered this analysis. Seventeen percent of patients had neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Chemotherapy was administered to 74% of patients; radiotherapy was administered to 38% of patients.

Results

With a median follow-up of 7 years, 5-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 51% and 37%, respectively. The 5-year OS and PFS by Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study (IRS) groupings were as follows: group I, 82% and 61%; group II, 62% and 37%; group III, 32% and 27%; group IV, 26% and 21%, respectively. Univariate analysis identified IRS groups, size, invasiveness, primary site, age, and presence of NF1 as prognostic factors; multivariate analysis identified absence of NF1, tumor invasiveness T1, IRS groups I to II and extremity of primary site as independent favorable factors for OS. A trend was observed toward a benefit from radiotherapy after initial gross resection. The overall response rate to primary chemotherapy, including minor responses, in group III patients was 45%.

Conclusion

MPNST is an aggressive tumor for which complete surgical resection is the mainstay of successful treatment. Postoperative radiotherapy may have a role in improving local control in patients with minimal residual tumor. The reported responses to primary chemotherapy suggest that it may be effective in patients with tumor considered unresectable at diagnosis.
Systematic Review of the Treatment of Cancer-Associated Anorexia and Weight Loss
Authors: Yavuzsen Tugba , Davis Mellar P. , Walsh Declan , LeGrand Susan , Lagman Ruth
Published: November 2005

Purpose

We systematically assessed the efficacy and safety of appetite stimulants in the management of cancer-related anorexia. Literature databases were searched for randomized controlled trials of appetite stimulants in the treatment of cancer anorexia.

Materials and Methods

Studies were graded according to quality. Fifty-five studies met inclusion criteria.

Results

Only two drugs have evidence to support their use for anorexia (progestins and corticosteroids). There is strong evidence against the use of hydrazine sulfate. The outcomes of these trials have been mixed and patient population heterogeneous.

Conclusion

The optimal dose, time to start, and duration of treatment for many appetite stimulants for cancer anorexia is still unknown. A more systematic approach to research methodology with universal outcome measure and prospective randomized studies are needed. Combination regimens are needed but this cannot at the present time be supported by the data presented.
Phase III Study of Second-Line Chemotherapy for Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer With Weekly Compared With 3-Weekly Docetaxel
Authors: Schuette Wolfgang , Nagel Sylke , Blankenburg Thomas , Lautenschlaeger Christine , Hans Klaus , Schmidt Ernst-Wilhelm , Dittrich Ina , Schweisfurth Hans , von Weikersthal Ludwig Fischer , Raghavachar Aruna , Reißig Angelika , Serke Monika
Published: November 2005

Purpose

A phase III study to determine whether a weekly docetaxel schedule improves the therapeutic index compared with the classic 3-weekly schedule.

Patients and Methods

Patients with stage IIIB-IV non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were randomly assigned to docetaxel 75 mg/m2 on day 1 every 3 weeks (3-weekly) and 35 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 (weekly) for ≤ eight cycles. End points included survival (primary), toxicity, and response.

Results

Of 215 patients enrolled, 208 (103 in the 3-weekly arm and 105 in the weekly arm) were assessable for response. At baseline, 24.5% of patients (51 out of 208) had received prior paclitaxel therapy and 43.3% of patients (90 out of 208) had been progression-free for more than 3 months after first-line therapy. After 12 months' follow-up, median survival was 6.3 months (95% CI, 4.68 to 7.84 months) with 3-weekly docetaxel and 9.2 months (95% CI, 5.83 to 12.59 months) with weekly docetaxel (P = .07) after a median of four (range, one to eight) and two (range, one to eight) treatment cycles, respectively. Overall, response rates were 12.6% v 10.5% with 3-weekly versus weekly docetaxel. Significantly fewer patients reported grade 3 to 4 toxicities with weekly docetaxel versus 3-weekly docetaxel (P ≤ .05). There were significantly lower rates of grade 3 to 4 anemia (P ≤ .05), leucopenia (P < .0001), and neutropenia (P ≤ .001) with weekly versus 3-weekly treatment. No grade 3 to 4 thrombocytopenia or mucositis was reported.

Conclusion

Weekly docetaxel 35 mg/m2 demonstrated similar efficacy and better tolerability than standard 3-weekly docetaxel 75 mg/m2 and can be recommended as a feasible alternative second-line treatment option for patients with advanced NSCLC.
Assessment of a Dietary Questionnaire in Cancer Patients Receiving Cytotoxic Chemotherapy
Authors: Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Heseltine Denise , Campos Hannia , Holmes Michelle D. , Willett Walter C. , Winer Eric P. , Enzinger Peter C. , Bunnell Craig A. , Kulke Matthew H. , Fuchs Charles S.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

Few studies have examined the influence of diet on survival and chemotherapy-associated toxicities in patients with cancer. Although several comprehensive dietary questionnaires have been validated and calibrated in healthy populations, similar studies have not been performed among cancer patients.

Methods

Two hundred patients with colorectal, breast, or neuroendocrine cancer undergoing treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapy completed a self-administered, 131-item, semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Using the questionnaire, we calculated dietary intakes of carotenoids, tocopherols, and fatty acids, and correlated these values with relevant biomarkers measured in simultaneously collected plasma specimens.

Results

The Pearson correlation coefficients for various carotenoids as measured by the questionnaire, with the corresponding measurements in plasma specimens, ranged from 0.33 to 0.44 (all P < .001), adjusted for total energy intake, body mass index, age, sex, smoking status, and total plasma cholesterol. Similarly, the adjusted correlation between self-reported total vitamin E intake and plasma alpha-tocopherol was 0.34 (P < .001). Correlations between questionnaire and plasma measurements of trans-fat, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid were 0.55, 0.29, and 0.42 (all P < .001), respectively. These levels of correlation are consistent with those reported in similar studies of self-reported diet in otherwise healthy populations.

Conclusion

Among patients with cancer receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy, questionnaire-based measurements of various micronutrients and dietary factors appeared to predict meaningful differences in the corresponding measurements in plasma specimens. This dietary questionnaire could offer an informative and practical means for assessing the influence of diet in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
Efficacy of Pegfilgrastim and Darbepoetin Alfa As Hematopoietic Support for Dose-Dense Every-2-Week Adjuvant Breast Cancer Chemotherapy
Authors: Burstein Harold J. , Parker Leroy M. , Keshaviah Aparna , Doherty Jennifer , Partridge Ann H. , Schapira Lidia , Ryan Paula D. , Younger Jerry , Harris Lyndsay N. , Moy Beverly , Come Steven E. , Schumer Susan T. , Bunnell Craig A. , Haldoupis Margaret , Gelman Rebecca , Winer Eric P.
Published: November 2005

Purpose

Dose-dense, every-2-week adjuvant chemotherapy using doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide (AC; 60/600 mg/m2 every 2 weeks × four cycles) followed by paclitaxel (175 mg/m2 every 2 weeks × four cycles), requiring filgrastim on days 3 through 10 of each cycle has been shown to improve survival compared with every-3-week treatment schedules but is associated with greater risk of RBC transfusion (13%). The role of long-acting hematopoietic growth factors in facilitating every-2-week chemotherapy and minimizing hematologic toxicity has not been established.

Patients and Methods

Women with stage I to III breast cancer received dose-dense AC → paclitaxel as neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients received pegfilgrastim 6 mg subcutaneous (SQ) on day 2 of each cycle. Darbepoetin alfa was initiated at 200 μg SQ every 2 weeks for hemoglobin ≤ 12 g/dL, and administered thereafter, according to a preplanned algorithm. The primary end points were to evaluate the percentage of patients with febrile neutropenia and the percentage of patients requiring RBC transfusion.

Results

Among 135 women treated on this single arm study, there were two cases of febrile neutropenia (incidence 1.5%). No patients received RBC transfusion. Darbepoetin alfa therapy was initiated in 92% of patients. The modest leukocytosis seen during paclitaxel cycles was attributable, in part, to corticosteroid premedication. Other toxicity and dose-delivery were similar to dose-dense AC → paclitaxel in Cancer and Leukemia Group B 9741.

Conclusion

Pegfilgrastim and darbepoetin alfa are effective and safe in facilitating every-2-week AC → paclitaxel, minimizing rates of febrile neutropenia and RBC transfusion.
Epidemiology of Bronchioloalveolar Carcinoma: Improvement in Survival After Release of the 1999 WHO Classification of Lung Tumors
Authors: Zell Jason A. , Ou S.-H. Ignatius , Ziogas Argyrios , Anton-Culver Hoda
Published: November 2005

Purpose

Classification changes for bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (BAC) by the WHO in May 1999 narrowed its definition. This study was undertaken in an attempt to characterize the impact of these changes on the epidemiology of BAC.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective study involves data analysis from the population-based Cancer Surveillance Programs of three Southern California counties from 1995 to 2003. BAC cases diagnosed after May 1999 are compared with BAC cases before that time by clinicopathologic variables including survival.

Results

Incident cases (11,969) of non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were analyzed, including 626 cases of BAC (5.2%). Median overall survival (OS) for BAC patients diagnosed after May 1999 (> 53 months) was significantly improved over median OS for BAC patients before May 1999 (32 months; P = .012). This survival benefit remained after adjustment for sex, smoking status, and stage at presentation (hazard ratio for time of diagnosis before May 1999 compared with a diagnosis after May 1999 = 1.43; P = .015). Median OS for non-BAC NSCLC patients diagnosed before May 1999 (9 months) did not differ from the median OS of such patients afterwards (10 months; P = .09).

Conclusion

This epidemiologic study is the first to demonstrate a survival advantage for BAC patients diagnosed after May 1999 compared with BAC patients diagnosed before this time—a finding that persists after adjustment for sex, smoking status, and stage at presentation. We believe that this observed survival benefit likely reflects changes in the revised 1999 WHO classification.
Randomized, Controlled Trial of Cyclophosphamide, Methotrexate, and Fluorouracil Versus Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, and Fluorouracil With and Without Tamoxifen for High-Risk, Node-Negative Breast Cancer: Treatment Results of Intergroup Protocol INT-0102
Authors: Hutchins Laura F. , Green Stephanie J. , Ravdin Peter M. , Lew Danika , Martino Silvana , Abeloff Martin , Lyss Alan P. , Allred Craig , Rivkin Saul E. , Osborne C. Kent
Published: November 2005

Purpose

We evaluated the efficacy of cyclophosphamide, methotrexate, and fluorouracil (CMF) versus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and fluorouracil (CAF) in node-negative breast cancer patients with and without tamoxifen (TAM), overall and by hormone receptor (HR) status.

Patients and Methods

Node-negative patients identified by tumor size (> 2 cm), negative HR, or high S-phase fraction (n = 2,690) were randomly assigned to CMF, CAF, CMF + TAM (CMFT), or CAF + TAM (CAFT). Cox regression evaluated overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) for CAF versus CMF and TAM versus no TAM separately. Two-sided CIs and one-sided P values for planned comparisons were calculated.

Results

Ten-year estimates indicated that CAF was not significantly better than CMF (P = .13) for the primary outcome of DFS (77% v 75%; HR = 1.09; 95% CI, 0.94 to 1.27). CAF had slightly better OS than CMF (85% v 82%, HR = 1.19 for CMF v CAF; 95% CI, 0.99 to 1.43); values were statistically significant in the planned one-sided test (P = .03). Toxicity was greater with CAF and did not increase with TAM. Overall, TAM had no benefit (DFS, P = .16; OS, P = .37), but the TAM effect differed by HR groups. For HR-positive patients, TAM was beneficial (DFS, HR = 1.32 for no TAM v TAM; 95% CI, 1.09 to 1.61; P = .003; OS, HR = 1.26; 95% CI, 0.99 to 1.61; P = .03), but not for HR-negative patients (DFS, HR = 0.81 for no TAM v TAM; 95% CI, 0.64 to 1.03; OS, HR = 0.79; 95% CI, 0.60 to 1.05).

Conclusion

CAF did not improve DFS compared with CMF; there was a slight effect on OS. Given greater toxicity, we cannot conclude CAF to be superior to CMF. TAM is effective in HR-positive disease, but not in HR-negative disease.
A Carboxyl Leucine-Rich Region of Parathyroid Hormone-Related Protein Is Critical for Nuclear Export
Authors: Pache Jared C. , Burton Douglas W. , Deftos Leonard J. , Hastings Randolph H.
Published: November 2005

PTHrP is an oncofetal protein with distinct proliferative and antiapoptotic roles that are affected by nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. The protein’s nuclear export is sensitive to leptomycin B, consistent with a chromosome region maintenance protein 1-dependent pathway. We determined that the 109–139 region of PTHrP was involved in its nuclear export by demonstrating that a C-terminal truncation mutant, residues 1–108, exports at a reduced rate, compared with the wild-type 139 amino acid isoform. We searched for potential nuclear export sequences within the 109–139 region, which is leucine rich. Comparisons with established nuclear export sequences identified a putative consensus signal at residues 126–136. Deletion of this region resulted in nuclear export characteristics that closely matched those of the C-terminal truncation mutant. Confocal microscopic analyses of transfected 293, COS-1, and HeLa cells showed that steady-state nuclear levels of the truncated and deletion mutants were significantly greater than levels of wild-type PTHrP and were unaffected by leptomycin B, unlike the wild-type protein. In addition, both mutants demonstrated greatly reduced nuclear export with assays using nuclear preparations and intact cells. Based on these results, we conclude that the 126–136 amino acid sequence closely approximates the structure of a chromosome region maintenance protein 1-dependent leucine-rich nuclear export signal and is critical for nuclear export of PTHrP.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone-Expressing Neurons Immortalized Conditionally Are Activated by Insulin: Implication of the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway
Authors: Salvi Roberto , Castillo Einar , Voirol Marie-Jeanne , Glauser Micheline , Rey Jean-Pierre , Gaillard Rolf C. , Vollenweider Peter , Pralong François P.
Published: November 2005

Energy balance exerts a critical influence on reproduction via changes in the circulating levels of hormones such as insulin. This modulation of the neuroendocrine reproductive axis ultimately involves variations in the activity of hypothalamic neurons expressing GnRH. Here we studied the effects of insulin in primary hypothalamic cell cultures as well as a GnRH neuronal cell line that we generated by conditional immortalization of adult hypothalamic neurons. These cells, which represent the first successful conditional immortalization of GnRH neurons, retain many of their mature phenotypic characteristics. In addition, we show that they express the insulin receptor. Consistently, their stimulation with insulin activates both the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and the Erk1/2 MAPK signaling pathways and stimulates a rapid increase in the expression of c-fos, demonstrating their responsiveness to this hormone. Further work performed in parallel in immortalized GnRH-expressing cells and primary neuronal cultures containing non-GnRH-expressing neurons shows that insulin induces the expression of GnRH in both models. In primary cultures, inhibition of the Erk1/2 pathway abolishes the stimulation of GnRH expression by insulin, whereas blockade of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway has no effect. In conclusion, these data strongly suggest that GnRH neurons are directly sensitive to insulin and implicate for the first time the MAPK Erk1/2 signaling pathway in the central effects of insulin on the neuroendocrine reproductive axis.
Maintenance of Gonadotropin Secretion by Glucocorticoids under Stress Conditions through the Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis in the Brain
Authors: Matsuwaki Takashi , Kayasuga Yuko , Yamanouchi Keitaro , Nishihara Masugi
Published: November 2005

We have previously reported that glucocorticoids counteract the suppressive effects of tumor necrosis factor-α on both pulsatile and surge secretion of LH. This suggests that glucocorticoids have a protective effect on reproductive function under infectious stress. In the present study, we examined whether glucocorticoids maintain pulsatile LH secretion under various conditions of acute stress and the possible involvement of prostaglandins (PGs) in glucocorticoid actions. Three different types of stressors, namely infectious (lipopolysaccharide, 0.5 μg/kg), hypoglycemic (2-deoxy-d-glucose, 100 mg/kg), and restraint stress (1 h) were applied to ovariectomized rats. In ovariectomized rats, LH pulses were partially suppressed by restraint, but not by lipopolysaccharide or 2-deoxy-d-glucose. On the other hand, adrenalectomy (ADX) significantly enhanced the suppressive effects of all the stressors applied on LH pulses. Treatment with both corticosterone (25 mg/kg) and indomethacin (10 mg/kg) in ADX rats significantly attenuated the suppressive effects of these stressors on LH pulses. In addition, the immunoreactivity of cyclooxygenase-2, a PG-synthesizing enzyme, in the brain under stress conditions was much enhanced by ADX, and this was counteracted by corticosterone treatment. Similarly, an increase in body temperature under restraint stress was enhanced by ADX and suppressed by corticosterone. These results suggest that suppression of LH pulsatility by stress is mediated by PGs in the brain, and that increased release of endogenous glucocorticoids in response to stress counteracts this suppression by inhibiting PG synthesis, and thereby maintains reproductive function regardless of the nature of the stressor.
Methylisogermabullone isolated from radish roots stimulates small bowel motility via activation of acetylcholinergic receptors
Authors: Jeong Seung Il , Lee Seoul , Choi Bong Kyu , Jung Kyu Yong , Kim Kang Ju , Keum Kyung Soo , Choo Yong Kug
Published: November 2005

We have previously reported that extract of radish roots exhibits an increase in gastrointestinal motility through the activation of muscarinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptors. Based on the stimulatory activity-guided fractionation on rat ileal segments, this study isolated methylisogermabullone (MIGB, C23H31O5NS, MW 433) from methanol extracts of radish roots. MIGB caused a significant increase of the isolated rat ileal contraction in a concentration-dependent manner (23–693 μm), and the pattern of MIGB-induced ileal contraction was different in the time course to that produced by ACh. The EC50 value of MIGB, to produce 50% maximum ileal contraction, was estimated to be 45.5 μm. MIGB (230 μm)-induced ileal contractions were enhanced by pretreatment of segments with ACh (0.1 μm). Ileal contractions produced by MIGB (230 μm) or ACh (0.1 μm) at submaximal concentration were partially inhibited by pretreatment of hexamethonium (0.1 mm), a ganglionic blocker, whereas they were almost completely abolished by atropine (10 μm). Oral administration of MIGB to mice stimulated the small intestinal transit of charcoal in a dose-dependent manner (10–100 mg kg−1), and MIGB (100 mg kg−1)-induced stimulation of small intestinal transit was significantly attenuated by co-administration of atropine (50 mg kg−1). Taken together, these results demonstrate that MIGB isolated from radish roots stimulates the small bowel motility through the activation of ACh receptors. These findings suggest that MIGB may become a potential regulatory agent for therapeutic intervention in dysfunction of gastrointestinal motility.
Structural Validation of Railway Bogies and Wagons Using Finite Elements Tools
Authors: San Román J L , Álvarez-Caldas C , Quesada A
Published: November 2005

This article aims to contribute an integrated solution for the design and test of railway bogies, so that the demands of each new design can be validated by computing. Nowadays, official approval regulations demand experimental tests on real prototypes. Three different kinds of tests are required. Trying to substitute these tests by simulations on a finite element method (FEM) model, two main troubles appear. (1) Strain gauges used in experimental tests must be substituted by a FEM entity that provides similar results as long as official standard regulations can be applied to them. (2) Current FEM codes present several problems simulating fatigue phenomenon. In this article, a new type of finite element, called virtual strain gauge, is proposed. Results obtained by this element can be treated as experimental results, as long as they are much similar to strain gauges results than other typical FEM ones. Fatigue testing may be reduced when greater experience is acquired with virtual strain gauges. However, it will always play a key role in final test with real prototypes, pinpointing errors in materials, manufacture, and welding. This work concludes that, using virtual strain gauges, experimental tests can be drastically reduced by replacing them with FEM simulations. An example of an MSP railway bogie is analysed to illustrate theoretical results.
A Review of the Effects of Out-Of-Round Wheels on Track and Vehicle Components
Authors: Barke D W , Chiu W K
Published: November 2005

Out-of-round rollingstock wheels are caused by skidding or spalling of the wheel tread and by dynamic motion of wheels and wheelsets in service. Out-of-round wheels generate impact forces at the wheel-rail interface, which are transferred to train and to track components including rail and both bolted and welded rail joints, prestressed concrete sleepers, ballast, wheels, and bearings.

To make a rational decision about removing out-of-round wheels from service, estimation of the damage caused by an individual wheel is required. Previous studies have used analytical and numerical models to illustrate the distribution of impact into track and rolling stock components. These models are compared here. The review details mathematical models and studies of the lives of the earlier-listed components, which would provide a means of determining the damage caused by impacting wheels. In addition, studies have found that impacting wheels increase fuel consumption and increase pass-by noise levels, which are also discussed here. Further study of the effect of impacting wheels on axle bearing lives, parent rail, and bridges would improve this decision-making tool.

It is envisaged that these models would be combined to determine the total cost of operating rolling stock with impacting wheels. This could be offset against the cost of wheelset maintenance to determine when an impacting wheel should be reprofiled.
Improving a one-dimensional centrifugal compressor performance prediction method
Authors: Swain E
Published: November 2005

A one-dimensional centrifugal compressor performance prediction technique that has been available for some time is updated as a result of extracting the component performance from three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analyses. Confidence in the CFD results is provided by comparison of overall performance for one of the compressor examples. The extracted impeller characteristic is compared with the original impeller loss model, and this indicated that some improvement was desirable. The position of least impeller loss was determined using a traditional axial compressor cascade method, and suitable algebraic expressions were derived to match the CFD data. The merit of the approach lies with the relative ease that CFD component performance currently can be achieved and adjusting one-dimensional methods to agree with the CFD-derived models.
Engine Lubricant Trends Since 1990
Authors: Taylor R. I. , Mainwaring R , Mortier R. M.
Published: November 2005

A review is undertaken of the important trends in engine lubricant performance tests that have taken place over the last 10-15 years. Lubricant formulations are driven by industry standard specifications, original equipment manufacturer requirements, and consumer needs. A review is given of the important specifications and associated performance tests, and how these have impacted on lubricant development. The key trends are, firstly, the need for improved fuel economy, secondly, the need for improved oxidation stability, thirdly, the need for improved handling of contaminants (e.g. soot), and, fourthly, the recent move to lubricants containing low levels of sulphur, phosphorus, and sulphated ash, for after-treatment device compatibility reasons.
The Mechanism of Rolling Contact Fatigue: An Update
Authors: Olver A. V.
Published: November 2005

A review of some of the recent work on the mechanism of rolling contact fatigue (RCF) is presented. Topics covered include the appearance and classification of RCF and the processes of strain localization, texture development, microstructural change, crack formation, crack shape and propagation, and through-fracture. It is concluded that a significant barrier to progress is the poor current understanding of the processes of running-in and of the interactions between plastic deformation, wear, lubricant chemistry and damage accumulation.
Conditional Drilling of a Sand Cut by a Fault
Authors: Lerche Ian
Published: November 2005

This paper discusses the Bayesian updating of the chances of hydrocarbon success in a sand cut by a fault when the sand is charged after fault time. Prior to actual drilling the decision to drill either the downthrown sand component or the upthrown sand component depends, in particular, on whether the fault is considered to be leaking a lot or a little and whether any leaked hydrocarbons are then trapped in the upthrown sand. Based on prior-to-drill estimates of parameters one can then determine which is the better probability to drill. After drilling one knows with certainty the worth obtained in one component of the fault cut sand. This information can then be used to update the probability that the fault is leaking a lot or only a little, as well as to change the assessment made prior to drilling concerning the probability that a hydrocarbon charge indeed took place in the lower sand after fault time. These updated parameter values can then be used to re-assess the location off the next drill site in order to improve the chances of commercial success. This group of problems is addressed in this paper with numerical examples to show how the procedures operate in practise.
Full-Load Converter Connected Asynchronous Generators for MW Class Wind Turbines
Authors: Akhmatov Vladislav
Published: November 2005

Wind turbines equipped with full-load converter-connected asynchronous generators are a known concept. These have rating up to hundreds of kW and are a feasible concept for MW class wind turbines and may have advantages when compared to conventional wind turbines with directly connected generators.* The concept requires the use of full-scale frequency converters, but the mechanical gearbox is smaller than in conventional wind turbines of the same rating. Application of smaller gearbox may reduce the no-load losses in the wind turbines, which is why such wind turbines with converter connected generators may start operation at a smaller wind speed. Wind turbines equipped with such converted connected asynchronous generators are pitch-controlled and variable-speed. This allows better performance and control. The converter control may be applied to support the grid voltage at short-circuit faults and to improve the fault-ride-through capability of the wind turbines, which makes the concepts relevant for large wind farms. The Danish transmission system operator Energinet-DK has implemented the general model of wind turbines equipped with converter connected asynchronous generators with the simulation tool Powerfactory (DlgSilent). The article presents Energinet-DK's experience of modeling this feasible wind turbine concept.
Analysing and Optimizing the Aerodynamic Performance of Wind Turbine Blades Using Injected-Air Jets at Variable Frequency and Amplitude for Flow Control
Authors: Hong Liu , Fupeng Huo , Zuoyi Chen
Published: November 2005

Optimum aerodynamic performance of a wind turbine blade demands that the angle of attack of the relative wind on the blade remains at its optimum value. For turbines operating at constant speed, a change in wind speed causes the angle of attack to change immediately and the aerodynamic performance to decrease. Even with variable speed rotors, intrinsic time delays and inertia have similar effects. Improving the efficiency of wind turbines under variable operating conditions is one of the most important areas of research in wind power technology. This paper presents findings of an experimental study in which an oscillating air jet located at the leading edge of the suction surface of an aerofoil was used to improve the aerodynamic performance. The mean air-mass flowing through the jet during each sinusoidal period of oscillation equalled zero; i.e. the jet both blew and sucked. Experiments investigated the effects of the frequency, momentum and location of the jet stream, and the profile of the turbine blade. The study shows significant increase in the lift coefficient, especially in the stall region, under certain conditions. These findings may have important implications for wind turbine technology.
Simulation Model of a Wind Turbine Pitch Controller for Grid Frequency Stabilisation
Authors: Jauch Clemens , Cronin Tom
Published: November 2005

This paper describes a pitch angle controller that enables an active-stall wind turbine to dampen actively grid frequency oscillations. This builds on previous work in the area of the transient stability control of active-stall turbines. The phenomenon of grid frequency oscillations is explained briefly and then the task for the wind turbine controller defined. The pitch controller that acts as a grid frequency stabiliser is explained in terms of its layout, control sequence and parameters. Finally, a transient fault situation with subsequent grid frequency oscillations is simulated and it is shown how the grid frequency stabiliser works. The performance of the controller is discussed and the conclusion is drawn that grid frequency stabilisation with an active-stall turbine is possible under certain conditions.
Why are Commercials So Loud?
Authors: Moore Brian C.J.
Published: November 2005

People often complain that commercials in broadcasts sound louder than the main programme material. This article describes why such effects occur, and describes an experiment quantifying the effect of the fast-acting compression that is often used in broadcasting. It is shown that a loudness model developed in the laboratory can predict the results accurately. It is argued that broadcast sounds should be monitored using a “loudness meter” that correctly assesses the loudness of sounds as perceived by human listeners.
Experimental Behaviour of Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC) Filled Hollow Structural Steel (HSS) Columns Subjected to Cyclic Loadings
Authors: Han Lin-Hai , You Jing-Tuan , Lin Xiao-Kang
Published: November 2005

The present paper is an attempt to study the cyclic behaviours of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) filled hollow structural steel (HSS) columns. The test parameters include the sectional types, the strength of concrete and steel and the axial load level ( n). Eighteen self-consolidating concrete filled hollow structural steel (SCCHSS) column specimens, including 10 specimens with circular sections and 8 specimens with square sections were tested under constant axial load and cyclically increasing flexural loading. It was found that, in general, SCCHSS columns exhibit very high levels of energy dissipation and ductility, particularly when subjected to high axial loads. The features of SCCHSS columns under constant axial load and cyclically increasing flexural loading are similar to those of normal concrete-filled HSS columns. Comparisons are made with predicted column strengths and flexural stiffness using the existing codes such as AIJ-1997, AISC-LRFD-1994, BS5400–1979 and EC4–1994.
Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis Model of High-Speed Train-Track-Bridge Dynamic Interactions
Authors: Lee Yong-Seon , Kim Sang-Hyo , Jung Jun
Published: November 2005

The dynamic behavior is a complicated characteristic in analysis of a railway bridge when it is incorporated with the effect of railway track. Even though it is not an ignorable component, the coupling effect with the railway track in the dynamic response of a railway bridge has been ignored or just simplified in the past researches. Therefore, this study conducts a numerical analysis of track effect on the railway bridge, and the comparison between the dynamic responses with three-dimensional (3D) discrete support track model and those without it is examined. Dynamic amplitude incorporated with 3D track model is decreased when the train velocity goes up over 250 km/h. This phenomenon shows that the resonance effect has been shifted by the 3D track model, which results in the changes in dynamic characteristics of a railway bridge. Consequently, the coupling effect between bridge and track should be taken account for in the analysis of dynamic response of a railway bridge.
Analysis of Coupled Lateral-Torsional-Pounding Responses of One-Storey Asymmetric Adjacent Structures Subjected to Bi-Directional Ground Motions Part I: Uniform Ground Motion Input
Authors: Gong L. , Hao H.
Published: November 2005

This paper presents results of a parametric study of seismic induced lateral-torsional-pounding responses of an asymmetric and a symmetric one-storey system subjected to bi-directional ground motion. The properties of the symmetric model are fixed, while the vibration frequency and eccentricity of the asymmetric model vary in the numerical computation. 20 sets of bi-directional horizontal earthquake ground motion time histories are numerically simulated for the analysis. All the simulated motions are compatible individually with the Newmark-Hall design response spectrum with 5% damping and normalized to 0.5g. Ensemble mean peak responses of the two systems to the 20 sets ground motions are estimated. Both linear elastic and nonlinear inelastic behaviours are studied. Effects of torsional stiffness, structural vibration frequency, eccentricities, and initial gap between two structures are investigated. Numerical results are presented in dimensionless form and compared with the code torsional provisions. In this paper, the input ground motion time histories at all the structural supports are assumed to be uniform. An accompany paper of this study is devoted to discuss the effect of the spatially varying ground motion on coupled lateral-torsional-pounding responses of the adjacent structures (Hao and Gong 2005).
Visual Difficulties Reported by Low-Vision and Nonimpaired Older Adult Drivers
Authors: McGregor Loretta Neal , Chaparro Alex
Published: November 2005

Nonimpaired and low-vision older adults responded to a questionnaire regarding the types of visual difficulties experienced while performing daily tasks and while driving. Using the factors produced from a factor analysis as predictors, a discriminant analysis was performed to determine whether significant differences in visual problems existed between the groups. The majority of participants reported that they currently required more time than in the past to perform tasks that depended on their vision, regardless of their visual status. All participants reported experiencing significant difficulties with static and dynamic acuity, peripheral vision, illumination problems, and contrast sensitivity. Both nonimpaired and low-vision older adult drivers reported experiencing difficulty with glare, peripheral vision, and night driving. Low-vision drivers reported experiencing unique difficulties with near acuity, distant acuity, and physical obstructions. Potential applications of this research include suggestions for redesigning automobiles and highway signs for safer use and viewing.
Mission Control of Multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: A Workload Analysis
Authors: Dixon Stephen R. , Wickens Christopher D. , Chang Dervon
Published: November 2005

With unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), 36 licensed pilots flew both single-UAV and dual-UAV simulated military missions. Pilots were required to navigate each UAV through a series of mission legs in one of the following three conditions: a baseline condition, an auditory autoalert condition, and an autopilot condition. Pilots were responsible for (a) mission completion, (b) target search, and (c) systems monitoring. Results revealed that both the autoalert and the autopilot automation improved overall performance by reducing task interference and alleviating workload. The autoalert system benefited performance both in the automated task and mission completion task, whereas the autopilot system benefited performance in the automated task, the mission completion task, and the target search task. Practical implications for the study include the suggestion that reliable automation can help alleviate task interference and reduce workload, thereby allowing pilots to better handle concurrent tasks during single- and multiple-UAV flight control.
A comparative evaluation of synergistic extraction behaviour of hexavalent uranium with thenoyl tri-fluoro-acetone (HTTA) and 1-phenyl, 3-methyl, 4-benzoyl pyrazolone-5 (HPMBP) using mono-functional and bi-functional neutral donors
Authors: Pai S. A. , Lohithakshan K. V. , Mithapara P. D. , Aggarwal S. K.
Published: November 2005

Synergistic extraction of hexavalent uranium was studied using acidic extractants HTTA/HPMBP with two different bifunctional neutral donors, DHDECMP and CMPO, from HNO3medium at various fixed temperatures. The equilibrium constants for the organic phase addition reaction (logKs) were correlated with the basicity (Kh) of the neutral donors. The data reported earlier for monofuctional neutral donors (DPSO, TBP, TOPO) were used for the comparison. A linear correlation between logKsand logKhwas observed for U(VI)/HTTA/S (S = neutral donor) system. However, in U(VI)/HPMBP/S system, the observed logKsvalues for bifunctional neutral donors were much lower than those expected from linear correlation. This was attributed to the different mechanisms operative in the synergistic extractioni.e. substitution in the formervs. addition in the latter. These conclusions are also supported by the thermodynamic data obtained in the present studies. Nevertheless, it is seen that bifunctional neutral donors act only as monofunctional with both HTTA and HPMBP.
Transport of Th(IV) and U(VI) through barium silico-phosphate composite membrane using electric field
Authors: Zaki E. E.
Published: November 2005

The present paper describes the preparation of a novel barium silico-phosphate filter paper supported membrane. It is based on precipitation reaction of barium silico-phosphate on the outer surface and in the interstices of a filter paper by means of electrodialysis. The main physical and electrical properties of the membrane are given and its electrodialysis behaviour is assessed for Th(IV) and U(VI). The transport of Th(IV) in presence of U(VI) was studied. The cationic fluxes of Th(IV) and U(VI) were found to be 1.2 × 10−8 and 6.5 × 10−9 g eq cm−2 s−1, respectively. Transport of Th(IV) and U(VI) in presence of EDTA was investigated. The cationic flux of U(VI) is found to be 9.8 × 10−9 g eq cm−2 s−1 at a current density of 25 mA/cm2. A comparative study on the electro osmotic effect was carried out using the developed membrane and commercially available Nafion membranes. In this context, different parameters like current density, electrolyte concentration, etc. were investigated. The electro-osmotic permeability coefficient, D
e, of Th(IV) through barium silico-phosphate and Nafion membranes were 6.9 × 10−2 and 1.0 × 10−2 cm3/A s, respectively. It can be concluded that inorganic membranes have very marked electro-osmotic properties unlike their organic counterparts.