bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stochastic cancer progression driven by non‐clonal chromosome aberrations
Authors: Heng Henry H. Q. , Stevens Joshua B. , Liu Gou , Bremer Steven W. , Ye Karen J. , Reddy Prem‐Veer , Wu Gen Sheng , Wang Y. Alan , Tainsky Michael A. , Ye Christine J.
Published: May 2006

Cancer research has previously focused on the identification of specific genes and pathways responsible for cancer initiation and progression based on the prevailing viewpoint that cancer is caused by a stepwise accumulation of genetic aberrations. This viewpoint, however, is not consistent with the clinical finding that tumors display high levels of genetic heterogeneity and distinctive karyotypes. We show that chromosomal instability primarily generates stochastic karyotypic changes leading to the random progression of cancer. This was accomplished by tracing karyotypic patterns of individual cells that contained either defective genes responsible for genome integrity or were challenged by onco‐proteins or carcinogens that destabilized the genome. Analysis included the tracing of patterns of karyotypic evolution during different stages of cellular immortalization. This study revealed that non‐clonal chromosomal aberrations (NCCAs) (both aneuploidy and structural aberrations) and not recurrent clonal chromosomal aberrations (CCAs) are directly linked to genomic instability and karyotypic evolution. Discovery of “transitional CCAs” during in vitro immortalization clearly demonstrates that karyotypic evolution in solid tumors is not a continuous process. NCCAs and their dynamic interplay with CCAs create infinite genomic combinations leading to clonal diversity necessary for cancer cell evolution. The karyotypic chaos observed within the cell crisis stage prior to establishment of the immortalization further supports the ultimate importance of genetic aberrations at the karyotypic or genome level. Therefore, genomic instability generated NCCAs are a key driving force in cancer progression. The dynamic relationship between NCCAs and CCAs provides a mechanism underlying chromosomal based cancer evolution and could have broad clinical applications. J. Cell. Physiol. 208: 461–472, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple apoptotic pathways induced by p53‐dependent acidification in benzo[a]pyrene‐exposed hepatic F258 cells
Authors: Huc Laurence , Rissel Mary , Solhaug Anita , Tekpli Xavier , Gorria Morgane , Torriglia Alicia , Holme Jørn A. , Dimanche‐Boitrel Marie‐Thérèse , Lagadic‐Gossmann Dominique
Published: May 2006

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), such as benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), are ubiquitous genotoxic environmental pollutants. Their DNA‐damaging effects lead to apoptosis induction, through similar pathways to those identified after exposure to other DNA‐damaging stimuli with activation of p53‐related genes and the involvement of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. However, at a low concentration of B[a]P (50 nM), our previous results pointed to the involvement of intracellular pH (pHi) variations during B[a]P‐induced apoptosis in a rat liver epithelial cell line (F258). In the present work, we identified the mitochondrial F0F1‐ATPase activity reversal as possibly responsible for pHi decrease. This acidification not only promoted executive caspase activation, but also activated leucocyte elastase inhibitor/leucocyte‐derived DNase II (LEI/L‐DNase II) pathway. p53 appeared to regulate mitochondria homeostasis, by initiating F0F1‐ATPase reversal and endonuclease G (Endo G) release. In conclusion, a low dose of B[a]P induced apoptosis by recruiting a large panel of executioners apparently depending on p53 phosphorylation and, for some of them, on acidification. J. Cell. Physiol. 208: 527–537, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Muscle‐fiber conduction velocity during concentric and eccentric actions on a flywheel exercise device
Authors: Pozzo Marco , Alkner Björn , Norrbrand Lena , Farina Dario , Tesch Per A.
Published: May 2006

A gravity‐independent flywheel exercise device (FWED) has been proven effective as a countermeasure to loss of strength and muscle atrophy induced by simulated microgravity. This study assessed muscle‐fiber conduction velocity (CV) and surface EMG instantaneous mean power spectral frequency (iMNF) during brief bouts of fatiguing concentric (CON) and eccentric (ECC) exercise on a FWED in order to identify electromyographic (EMG) variables that can be used to provide objective indications of muscle status when exercising with a FWED. Multichannel surface EMG signals were recorded from vastus lateralis and medialis muscles of nine men during: (1) isometric, 60‐s action at 50% of maximum voluntary action (MVC); (2) two isometric, linearly increasing force ramps (0–100% MVC); and (3) dynamic CON/ECC coupled actions on the FWED. Muscle‐fiber CV and iMNF were computed over time during the three tasks. During ramps, CV, but not iMNF, increased with force (P < 0.001). Conduction velocity and iMNF decreased with the same normalized rate of change in constant‐force actions. During CON/ECC actions, the normalized rate of change over time was larger for CV than iMNF (P < 0.05). These results suggest that, during fatiguing, dynamic, variable‐force tasks, changes in CV cannot be indirectly inferred by EMG spectral analysis. This underlines the importance of measuring both CV and spectral variables for muscle assessment in dynamic tasks. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Role of perineal ultrasound in the evaluation of urinary stress incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse: A systematic review
Authors: Dalpiaz Orietta , Curti Pierpaolo
Published: May 2006

Aims

A review of the international literature on urogynecology was performed to focus on the actual role of perineal ultrasound. It is an increasingly used tool for the assessment of pelvic floor dysfunction and incontinence. In recent years ultrasound studies have predominated but there is little information on normal values and confusion on methodology and measurements. The aim of this study is to report the data available in the Literature about ultrasound as investigational evaluation helpful in diagnosing of urinary incontinence and urethral hypermobility, to document pelvic floor anatomy and to assess anatomic and functional changes after surgery.

Methods

A MED‐LINE search was conducted using combinations of heading terms: perineal, ultrasound, pelvic floor, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse.

Results

Ultrasound has become an indispensable diagnostic procedure in urogynecology. Perineal, introital, and endoanal ultrasound are the most recommended techniques and the results comprise qualitative and quantitative findings. These are important for determining the localization of the bladder neck and vesico‐urethral junction and also for pre‐ and postoperative comparisons, and moreover for clinical applications and scientific investigations.

Conclusions

There are as yet little data and there is a need to find in the near future more standard and objective parameters for the diagnosis of urinary incontinence. They will be obtained by means of more accurate analysis and comparison of the parameters, leading to a more clinically useful diagnostic test and assuring reliable and reproducible results. Neurourol. Urodynam. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nanostructured hydrogenated amorphous carbon films doped with nitrogen on p‐silicon
Authors: Somani Prakash R. , Yoshida Akihiko , Afre Rakesh A. , Adhikary Sunil , Soga T. , Umeno M.
Published: May 2006

The synthesis of nanostructured hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a‐C:H) films doped with nitrogen using microwave‐assisted surface wave plasma chemical vapour deposition on quartz and p‐silicon substrates is reported. By controlling the deposition parameters, the Tauc band gap has been varied from 2.4 to 1.75 eV. Field emission scanning electron microscopy observations indicate that the films are nano‐ structured and the particle size varies considerably depending on the deposition conditions. Nitrogen seems to be responsible for the formation of the nanostructure. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies with depth profiling indicate that nitrogen is not uniformly distributed in the bulk of the films and the films are observed to be rich in carbon near the p‐silicon substrate. Nitrogen concentration increases away from the substrate towards the top surface. Resistivity, visible Raman and nitrogen/carbon ratio studies indicate that a significant amount of sp3 carbon is present in the films and nitrogen seems to be a weak donor in the a‐C:H matrix. Weak photovoltaic action is observed in nitrogen‐doped a‐C:H/p‐silicon cells. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of heat treatment on various physical properties in Zr80Ni20 metallic glass
Authors: Kokanović I.
Published: May 2006

The effect of heat treatment on various physical properties in Zr80Ni20 metallic glass has been investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry and electrical resistivity measurements. Experimental values for the crystallisation temperature and activation energy of the crystallisation processes were derived by studying these processes at different heating rates. The electrical resistivity of the annealed samples up to a temperature slightly above the first crystallization exotherm decreases with decreasing heating rates and increasing annealing temperatures. The temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity of the samples has been interpreted in terms of the weak localization of electrons and contribution by electron–phonon scattering. The contribution by electron–phonon scattering increases with increasing the fraction of crystalline phases in the glass matrix. The superconducting transition temperature, Tc, of the Zr80Ni20 metallic glass annealed at heating rates of 60 K/min and 10 K/min up to annealing temperatures below its second crystallisation exotherm decreases with decreasing heating rates and increasing annealing temperatures. The homogeneity of the annealed Zr80Ni20 metallic glass is discussed by using the superconducting transition width as a criterion. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thermal analysis of GaN‐based laser diode package
Authors: Hwang W. J. , Lee T. H. , Nam O. H. , Kim H. K. , Kwak J. S. , Park Y. J. , Shin M. W.
Published: May 2006

This paper reports on the thermal behavior of GaN‐based laser diode (LD) package as functions of cool‐ing systems, die attaching materials, and chip loading conditions. Thermal resistance and junction tem‐perature was determined by electrical‐thermal transient method. Significant change of thermal resistance with input current was observed under natural cooling condition due to the sensitive change of heat trans‐fer coefficient (h ) with temperature. Employment of PbSn as a die attachment was more advantageous over Ag‐paste in thermal behavior of LD package. Compare the thermal resistance of LD packages epi‐down and epi‐up structures. The partial thermal resistance from junction to submount is 4.68 K/W for epi‐down structure, and 9.65 K/W to epi‐up structure. The results demonstrate that the total thermal resistance of LD package be controlled mainly by the packaging design rather than the chip structure itself. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nitride‐based light emitting diodes with quaternary p‐AlInGaN surface layers
Authors: Kuo C. H. , Chang S. J. , Chi G. C. , Lam K. T. , Sun Y. S.
Published: May 2006

We have demonstrated bulk p‐AlInGaN layers and light emitting diodes (LEDs) with p‐AlInGaN surface layers by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). It was found that surface of the LED with p‐AlInGaN layer was rough with a high density of hexagonal pits. Although the forward voltage of the LED with p‐AlInGaN layer was slightly larger, it was found that we can enhance the output power by 54% by using p‐AlInGaN surface layer. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Investigation of optimized ohmic contact of direct ITO layer with synchrotron radiation analysis
Authors: Ha Jun‐Seok , Jang Jun‐Ho , Joo Min‐Ho , Kim Tae‐Hyeong , Park Kyu‐Ho , Shin Hyun‐Joon , Lee Jeong‐Soo , Jung Jong‐Jae
Published: May 2006

With application of the current transport enhanced layer (CTEL) on the top of p‐type GaN, we optimized process conditions, which show the contact resistance of 1.43x10–3 Ω·cm2, using ITO contact layer that has advantages in the enhancement of light extraction efficiency. High‐resolution near edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy was used to investigate the interface reaction between GaN / CTEL and ITO layers. Interstitial molecular N2 was directly observed by vibrationally resolved N'K‐edge absorption spectroscopy. It is suggested that GaN was chemically changed to gallium oxide (Ga2O3) and nitrogen molecule (N2) [2Ga‐N + 3/2 O2 => Ga2O3+N2] during annealing process, and this newly formed layer makes depletion width narrowing for the tunneling properties for the ohmic contact. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Modeling and experimental analysis of InGaN MOVPE in the Aixtron AIX 200/4 RF‐S horizontal reactor
Authors: Yakovlev E. V. , Talalaev R. A. , Martin R. W. , Jeynes C. , Peng N. , Deatcher C. J. , Watson I. M.
Published: May 2006

A combined modeling and experimental analysis of InGaN deposition in the widely used single‐wafer Aixtron AIX 200/4 RF‐S reactor is presented. The main focus of the study is the effect of the deposition temperature on the layer composition. InGaN epilayers were grown at setpoint temperatures between 760 and 920 °C, keeping other process parameters constant. Epilayer compositions were analysed using strain‐independent methods. Results from the modeling generally match the experimental compositional data well, and thus are used to analyze factors affecting indium transport and incorporation efficiency. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural characterization of InN quantum dots grown by Metalorganic Vapour Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Lozano J. G. , González D. , Sánchez A. M. , Araújo D. , Ruffenach S. , Briot O. , García R.
Published: May 2006

The effect of a low temperature GaN capping layer on the structural properties of InN quantum dots is reported. InN quantum dots grown onto sapphire using GaN buffer, with and without low temperature GaN capping layer, have been investigated by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The analysis revealed hexagonal shape quantum dots in both samples. Moreover, the GaN capping layer gives rise to a reduction in the dots aspect ratio. Moiré fringe patterns, obtained in planar view geometry, were used to analyse the strain relaxation of the InN quantum dots. The moiré pattern measurements demonstrated that the uncapped InN quantum dot is almost fully relaxed. These results are related to the formation of a 60° misfit dislocation network in the InN/GaN interface. However, the capping layer not only generated a change of the aspect ratio, but also a decrease in the heterostructure plastic relaxation. The reason of this effect is discussed. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Carrier dynamics in site‐controlled Ga1–xInxN quantum dots
Authors: Jetter M. , Pérez‐Solórzano V. , Gröning A. , Gräbeldinger H. , Ubl M. , Schweizer H.
Published: May 2006

Site‐controlled nanostructures were fabricated by deposition of GaInN on top of hexagonal GaN pyramids by selective metal organic vapor‐phase epitaxy. This allows us to control exactly the position of the emitting quantum dots, which is an essential requirement for functionalized single‐photon emitters. The nature of the growth process implies also the formation of quantum wells on the side‐walls of the pyramid and quantum wires at the edges, next to the quantum dot on the apex. The emission properties of these structures were investigated using low‐temperature time‐resolved spectroscopy. These measurements showed regions of different confinement with emission in the green spectral wavelength range. The analysis of the decay times confirms that the luminescence originates from regions with different dimensionality. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Comparison of high quality GaN‐based light‐emitting diodes grown on alumina‐rich spinel and sapphire substrates
Authors: Tinjod Frank , de Mierry Philippe , Lancefield David , Chenot Sébastien , Virey Eric , Stone‐Sundberg Jennifer L. , Kokta Milan R. , Pauwels Damien
Published: May 2006

High quality GaN‐based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) can be achieved on alumina‐rich spinel (MgAl6O10), a new substrate material with better thermal and lattice match to GaN than sapphire. As alumina‐rich spinel is chemically very close to sapphire (Al2O3), the GaN metal‐organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) conditions developed for c‐plane sapphire have been successfully replicated on it. In this article, we report on the electroluminescence (EL) properties of GaN‐based LEDs grown by MOCVD simultaneously on Al2O3‐(0001) and MgAl6O10‐(111). Both devices exhibit a linear increase of the light output power versus current density, with a higher EL‐intensity and a narrower EL‐linewidth for the LEDs grown on alumina‐rich spinel. However, due to the lower thermal conductivity of spinel, these LEDs start suffering from device heating at lower current densities than on sapphire. Irreversible damage occurs for DC current densities of ∼0.9 kA/cm2 and at an estimated junction temperature of ∼325 °C. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
High temperature refractive indices of GaN
Authors: Liu C. , Stepanov S. , Gott A. , Shields P. A. , Zhirnov E. , Wang W. N. , Steimetz E. , Zettler J. T.
Published: May 2006

Undoped GaN (u‐GaN) films were grown by low pressure metalorganic vapour phase epitaxy (LP‐MOVPE) on sapphire substrates. In situ optical monitoring was applied to the growth process either using a LayTec EpiR‐DA TT spectroscopic reflectometer or Filmetrics F30. Refractive indices of u‐GaN films at 1060 °C were obtained in a spectral range from 370‐900 nm. A peak at 412±5 nm in refractive index spectra was observed, which most likely corresponds to the band‐gap of hexagonal GaN at a temperature of 1060 °C. Refractive indices below this band‐gap are fitted well to the first‐order Sellmeier formula. As an example of the applications of the refractive indices, the effective film thicknesses of GaN during the resumption from 3 dimensional (3D) to 2 dimensional (2D) growth have been calculated from the spectra recorded by a LayTec system using the optical constants obtained. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Coupling of phonons with excitons bound to different donors and acceptors in hexagonal GaN
Authors: Korona K. P. , Wysmołek A. , Kuhl J. , Kamińska M. , Baranowski J. M. , Look D. C. , Park S. S.
Published: May 2006

Time‐resolved measurements of GaN with different donors (oxygen or silicon) and acceptors (zinc or magnesium) showed pronounced bound exciton lines and their phonon replicas. The analysis included three phonon modes characteristic for the wurtzite (hexagonal) phase: A1(LO), E1(TO) and E2H. It was shown that relative amplitudes of replicas depended upon the chemical nature of the defects that the bind excitons. The replicas were stronger for acceptor‐ than for donor–related features. Huang‐Rhys factors S = 0.06 ± 0.02 and S = 0.025 ± 0.01, were found for the A0X and the D0X LO replicas, respectively. A significant difference in phonon coupling to silicon and oxygen donor bound excitons has been observed. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
High temperature characterization of Pt‐based Schottky diodes on AlGaN/GaN heterostructures
Authors: Pedrós J. , Cuerdo R. , Lossy R. , Chaturvedi N. , Würfl J. , Calle F.
Published: May 2006

The performance of Pt/(Ti)/Au Schottky contacts on AlGaN/GaN heterostructures up to 360 °C has been investigated by means of I‐V‐T measurements. A simultaneous increase of the effective barrier height and a decrease of the ideality factor with increasing temperature is observed. Barrier values of 1.05‐1.15 eV and a n‐values of 1.35‐1.55 are obtained above 300 °C. A reversible behaviour during the cooling is observed for the Pt/Ti/Au contacts, whereas a slight degradation is observed in the Pt/Au case. The insertion of an intermediate Ti layer is revealed to highly improve the thermal stability of the devices. The diode parameters are significantly enhanced throughout the whole thermal cycle when this intermediate layer is 10 nm thick. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Quantum confined Stark effect in vertically correlated GaN/AlN quantum dots
Authors: Łepkowski S.P. , Jurczak G.
Published: May 2006

We investigate Quantum Confined Stark Effect (QCSE) in vertically correlated wurtzite GaN/AlN QDs, having hexagonal pyramid‐shape. We show that the QCSE in these structures depends not only on the vertical dimensions, i.e., the height of the QDs and the thickness of the barriers, but also on their base diameter. We show that for typical wurtzite GaN/AlN QDs, having the base diameter of 19.5nm, drop of the electrostatic potential in the QD region slightly increases with increasing the width of barriers. Consequently, the band‐to‐band transition energies in the QDs decrease. Qualitatively similar but a factor of two stronger dependences is obtained for superlattices of QWs having the same vertical dimensions. The increase of the base diameter of the dots results in stronger dependences of both the electrostatic potential and the band‐to‐band transition energy on the thickness on barriers. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Morphological evaluation of epitaxial GaN grown on r ‐plane sapphire by metalorganic vapor‐phase epitaxy
Authors: Kusakabe K. , Ohkawa K.
Published: May 2006

Morphological evaluation of epitaxial GaN films grown on r ‐plane sapphire substrates by atmospheric metalorganic vapor‐phase epitaxy was investigated. The surface frequently showed rough morphology when the GaN was grown at conventional epitaxial conditions. It was found, however, that the surface roughness was improved by using appropriate combinations of growth temperature and low‐temperature GaN buffer thickness. Thereby, a peak‐to‐valley value of the roughness was reduced from 4 μm to 0.8 μm. The rotation of crystallographic orientations was observed in the flattened GaN films. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The connectivity threshold for the min‐degree random graph process
Authors: Kang Mihyun , Koh Youngmee , Ree Sangwook , Łuczak Tomasz
Published: May 2006

Let 𝒢n = {Gmin(n, M)}M≥0 denote a min‐degree random multigraph process in which Gmin(n, M + 1) is obtained from Gmin(n, M) by connecting a randomly chosen vertex of a minimum degree with another vertex of the multigraph. We study the probability that the random multigraph Gmin(n, M) is connected. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2006
Low rank rational perturbations of linear symmetric eigenproblems
Authors: Mazurenko L. , Voss H.
Published: May 2006

In this paper we study low rank rational perturbations of linear symmetric eigenvalue problems which for example govern free vibrations of mechanical structures with elastically attached loads, or mechanical vibrations of fluid–solid structures. Embedding the underlying rational eigenproblem into a parameter dependent family of linear eigenproblems, and examining the limit behaviour of the eigenvalues as the parameter approaches a pole, we determine the number of eigenvalues of the rational problem between two consecutive poles.
Synopsis of Usnea (lichenized Ascomycetes) from the Azores with additional information on the species in Macaronesia
Authors: CLERC Philippe
Published: May 2006

The genus Usnea is a conspicuous component of the macrolichen vegetation in Macaronesia. Ten species are recognized in the Azorean archipelago: Usnea cornuta Körb., U. esperantiana P. Clerc, U. flammea Stirt., U. geissleriana P. Clerc sp. nov., U. krogiana P. Clerc sp. nov., U. macaronesica P. Clerc sp. nov., U. rubicunda Stirt., U. silesiaca Motyka, U. subflammea P. Clerc sp. nov., and U. subscabrosa Motyka. All these species occur in the Canary Islands as well. Descriptive, chemical, ecological and distributional data for each species are provided. Species that have been recorded once for the Azores but not seen, or that are doubtful or excluded in this work, are briefly discussed.
On compositional modelling
Authors: KEPPENS JEROEN , SHEN QIANG
Published: May 2006

Many solutions to AI problems require the task to be represented in one of a multitude of rigorous mathematical formalisms. The construction of such mathematical models forms a difficult problem which is often left to the user of the problem-solver. This
void between problem-solvers and their problems is studied by the eclectic field of automated modelling. Within this field, compositional modelling, a knowledge-based methodology for system-modelling, has established itself as a leading approach. In general, a compositional modeller organises knowledge in a structure of composable fragments that relate to particular system components or processes. Its embedded inference mechanism chooses the appropriate fragments with respect to a given problem, instantiates and assembles them into a consistent system model. Many different types of compositional modeller exist, however, with significant differences in their knowledge representation and approach to inference. This paper examines compositional modelling. It presents a general framework for building and analysing compositional modellers. Based on this framework, a number of influential compositional modellers are examined and compared. The paper also identifies the strengths and weaknesses of compositional modelling and discusses some typical applications.
Use of AFLP, plasmid typing and phenotyping in a comparative study to assess genetic diversity of Shigella flexneri strains
Authors: HERRERA S. , CABRERA R. , RAMIREZ M. M. , USERA M. A. , ECHEITA M. A.
Published: May 2006

Shigella flexneri infections are one of the main causes of acute diarrhoea in Cuba. Twenty strains isolated from sporadic cases in nine different Cuban provinces were characterized. Serotyping, antibiotic-resistance typing, plasmid-typing and AFLP-typing were used to determine their suitability for use in epidemiological studies of S. flexneri. The predominant serotypes were serotype 6 (35%) and serotype 2 (35%). Eleven different plasmid profiles were detected (Diversity Index=0·92). AFLP-typing discriminated 12 different patterns (DI=0·95), these patterns were not coincident with plasmid-typing patterns. Both techniques combined distinguished 14 patterns among the 20 studied strains (DI=0·99). There was no consistent relationship between plasmid-typing and AFLP-typing patterns or antibiotic-resistance typing patterns. Ninety-five percent of S. flexneri strains were multiresistant.
Nasopharyngeal carriage of resistant pneumococci in young South Indian infants
Authors: COLES C. L. , RAHMATHULLAH L. , KANUNGO R. , THULASIRAJ R. D. , KATZ J. , SANTOSHAM M. , TIELSCH J. M.
Published: May 2006

Streptococcus pneumoniae is the leading bacterial cause of life-threatening infections in infants. Although antibiotic resistance affects management of pneumococcal infections, few data on patterns of resistance are available for India. We examined nasopharyngeal carriage of antibiotic-resistant pneumococci in 464 South Indian infants between 2 and 6 months. Newly acquired serotypes were screened for susceptibility to cotrimoxazole, erythromycin and penicillin using disk diffusion. Cumulative prevalence of pneumococcal carriage rose from 53·9% at 2 months to 70·2% at 6 months. The prevalence of strains that were not susceptible to penicillin, co-trimoxazole and erythromycin was 3·4, 81·1 and 37·2%, respectively. Carriage of erythromycin non-susceptible strains declined significantly between ages 4 months and 6 months (44·1 vs. 10·7%). More than 87% of the isolates screened were non-susceptible to [ges ]1 antibiotic. Serogroups/types that were most frequently non-susceptible to 1 or more antibiotics were 6, 9, 14, 19 and 23. Less than 1% of the isolates were multi-drug resistant. Widespread use of antibiotics in South India has resulted in S. pneumoniae becoming non-susceptible to some commonly used antibiotics. Monitoring trends in antibiotic susceptibility and making antibiotics available only through prescription from a health care worker may slow the spread of resistant pneumococci and improve management of pneumococcal infections in South India.
Predicting tuberculosis among migrant groups
Authors: WATKINS R. E. , PLANT A. J.
Published: May 2006

In industrialized countries migrants remain a high-risk group for tuberculosis (TB). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the ability of indicators of TB incidence in the country of birth to predict the incidence of TB among migrants in Australia during 1997. World Health Organization total case notifications, new smear-positive case notifications and the estimated incidence of TB by country of birth explained 55, 69 and 87% of the variance in TB incidence in Australia, respectively. Gross national income of the country of birth and unemployment level in Australia were also significant predictors of TB in migrant groups. Indicators of the incidence of TB in the country of birth are the most important group-level predictors of the rate of TB among migrants in Australia.
Regional and temporal changes in AIDS in Europe before HAART
Authors: BLAXHULT A. , FOX Z. , COLEBUNDERS R. , FRANCIOLI P. , BEN-ISHAI Z. , FÄTKENHEUER G. , PARKIN J. M. , VANHEMS P. , PHILLIPS A. N. , KIRK O. , EuroSIDA Study Group for the
Published: May 2006

In a prospective observational study 4485 patients from 46 clinical centres in 17 European countries were followed between April 1994 and November 1996. Information on AIDS-defining events (ADEs) were collected together with basic demographic data, treatment history and laboratory results. The centres were divided into four geographical regions (north, central, south-west and south-east) so that it was possible to identify any existing regional differences in ADEs. The regional differences that we observed included a higher risk of all forms of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections (Tb) and wasting disease in the south-west and an increased risk of infections with the Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) in the north. In Cox multivariable analyses, where north was used as the reference group, we observed hazard ratios of 6·87, 7·77, 2·29 and 0·16 (P<0·05 in all cases) for pulmonary Tb, extrapulmonary Tb, wasting disease and MAC respectively in the south-west. Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) was less commonly diagnosed in the central region (RH=0·51, 95% CI 0·32–0·79, P=0·003) and most common in the south-east (RH=1·04, 95% CI 0·71–1·51, P=0·85). Comparisons with a similar ‘AIDS in Europe’ study that concentrated on the early phase of the epidemic reveal that most of the regional differences that were observed in the 1980s still persist in the mid-1990s.
Evidence for insect transmission of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus
Authors: McCOLL K. A. , MERCHANT J. C. , HARDY J. , COOKE B. D. , ROBINSON A. , WESTBURY H. A.
Published: May 2006

The spread of rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD) virus from quarantine on Wardang Island to mainland Australia in 1995 suggested that insects could be potential vectors. Field observations and laboratory experiments were conducted to address aspects of this hypothesis. Firstly, the variation in insect populations on the island during the field trials was examined. There was approximately a 1000-fold increase in the number of bushflies, Musca vetustissima, shortly before the spread of the virus. Secondly, M. vetustissima were tested in the laboratory as potential vectors of RHD virus, and it was demonstrated that disease could be transmitted between rabbits by flies. Finally, 13 of 16 insect samples, collected from Wardang Island and from several sites on the mainland following the spread of virus off the island, were positive for the presence of RHD virus by a specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Only one sample contained sufficient infectious virus to kill a susceptible rabbit. These data, combined with previously published information on fly biology, suggested that flies, particularly bushflies, may be involved in the transmission of RHD virus. Other possible routes of spread were not assessed in this study.
Kinetics of the IgG antibody response to pertussis toxin after infection with B. pertussis
Authors: TEUNIS P. F. M. , VAN DER HEIJDEN O. G. , DE MELKER H. E. , SCHELLEKENS J. F. P. , VERSTEEGH F. G. A. , KRETZSCHMAR M. E. E.
Published: May 2006

We aimed to provide a quantitative description of decay in pertussis antibody levels to aid in finding a serological estimate of the incidence of pertussis. The serum IgG response against pertussis toxin was studied in a group of clinically diagnosed patients. Individual records consisted of repeated serum IgG measurements at irregular intervals for up to 10 years post diagnosis. These data were analysed with a nonlinear regression model taking into account censoring at upper and lower threshold levels, measurement errors, and individual variation in the shape and magnitude of the immune response. There was considerable variation between individual responses, both in strength (amplitude) and duration (shape). The inverse model relating IgG levels to time from infection (diagnosis) can be applied to cross-sectional IgG data to generate distributions of times from infection, which may be used to calculate infection rates and their variation, in populations sampled for cross-sectional IgG data.
Hepatitis A surveillance in England – how many cases are not reported and does it really matter?
Authors: MATIN N. , GRANT A. , GRANEROD J. , CROWCROFT N.
Published: May 2006

Underreporting of hepatitis A infection in England may be high and a number of outbreaks have occurred undetected by routine surveillance. We evaluated surveillance of hepatitis A cases by employing capture–recapture analysis on data from two distinct outbreaks of hepatitis A. The overall reporting of cases of hepatitis A was 81·7% (95% CI 55·3–95) in the first outbreak in North East England and reporting through Lab Base was 65·7% (95% CI 42·8–76·4). In the second outbreak in the East Midlands the overall reporting of hepatitis A cases was 27·8% (95% CI 19–38·7) and through Lab Base 16·6% (95% CI 11·4–23·1). Underreporting of hepatitis A cases is high. Public health interventions exist to prevent and control outbreaks of hepatitis A. The lack of reliable data on incidence and prevalence hampers effective public health management of this disease.
OLD WORLD GESNERIACEAE XI: MORE MISCELLANEOUS SPECIES OF CYRTANDRA IN BORNEO
Authors: HILLIARD O. M. , BURTT B. L.
Published: May 2006

Fourteen miscellaneous Bornean species of Cyrtandra are treated. Descriptions and discussion are provided for C. integerrima and C. neiothiantha, originally published with diagnoses only, and C. warburgiana is redescribed. Cyrtandra arachnoidea, C. asikii, C. banyingii, C. keithii, C. lineariloba, C. mendumae, C. palimasanica, C. parvifructa, C. sublanea, C. tubibractea and C. undata are newly described.
REVISION OF PLETHIANDRA HOOK.F.: A POLYSTAMINATE, EAST ASIAN GENUS OF MELASTOMATACEAE
Authors: KADEREIT G.
Published: May 2006

Plethiandra (Melastomataceae–Melastomatoideae–Dissochaeteae) comprises seven species in Borneo and one (P. sessiliflora) in the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia and central Sumatra. Plethiandra is easily recognized by its polystaminate androecium, having 16–40 stamens with short, straight, inappendiculate anthers. The closely related Medinilla has a diplostemonous androecium with 8–12 stamens and variously appendaged anthers. Ontogenetic studies in P. hookeri show that the increase in stamen number in Plethiandra results from subdivision of the stamen primordia into three or more subprimordia.This paper provides a key, genus and species descriptions including diagnostic characters, distribution maps and ecological notes. One species, P. tomentosa, is newly described. During field observations on P. hookeri and P. cuneata pollination by bees and dispersal by birds and squirrels were observed.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE TAXONOMIC REVISION OF THE GENUS CREPIDIUM (ORCHIDACEAE–MALAXIDINAE): THE NEW SUBSECTION MAXIMOWICZIANAE (SECTION HOLOLOBUS)
Authors: MARGOŃSKA H. B.
Published: May 2006

This is the first part of a taxonomic revision of section Hololobus of the paleotropical orchid genus Crepidium (Orchidaceae–Malaxidinae). Based on morphology and habit, the new subsection Maximowiczianae is established to include six species from India, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines. The new combination Crepidium carinatum is published with C. benguetense as a synonym. A key is provided, and all species are described and illustrated.
Seasonality of synoptic eddy feedback and the AO/NAO
Authors: Pan Lin‐Lin , Jin Fei‐Fei
Published: May 2006

In this paper, by using a dynamic model with synoptic eddy and low‐frequency flow (SELF) interaction, we show that the SELF feedback is of significant importance for the formation of the AO/NAO in both winter and summer. Although background storm activity is significantly weaker in summer than that in winter, the positive SELF feedback associated with the AO/NAO mode in summer can be as strong as that in winter. The seasonal variations of the AO/NAO patterns are found to resemble those of the leading singular modes simulated by a linear dynamic system with the SELF interaction in different seasons, and the seasonal shifts in spatial patterns of the AO/NAO are the result of the seasonal changes in climatological basic state and synoptic eddy activity.
Measurement of Serotonin 5-HT1A Receptor Binding Using Positron Emission Tomography and [carbonyl-11C]WAY-100635—Considerations on the Validity of Cerebellum as a Reference Region
Authors: Hirvonen Jussi , Kajander Jaana , Allonen Topias , Oikonen Vesa , Någren Kjell , Hietala Jarmo
Published: May 2006

[ Carbonyl-11C]WAY-100635 has been used extensively in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of serotonin 1A receptors (5-HT1A) in vivo in the human brain. Specific binding to receptors is usually estimated using compartmental modeling with arterial plasma input function. The use of reference tissue input (cerebellum) enables quantification without the need of arterial blood sampling, but the accuracy of this method is highly dependent on the validity of the reference region in terms of both specific and nonspecific binding. In this paper, we report exceptionally high uptake of [ carbonyl-11C]WAY-100635 in the gray matter of cerebellum in one healthy male subject, which was reproducible in repeated PET scanning and most likely represents specific binding to 5-HT1A receptors in cerebellar gray matter. Serotonin 1A receptors are transiently expressed in the human cerebellum during early childhood and usually level off until adolescence but may persist in some individuals. As a methodological implication, the results of this study with regard to test–retest characteristics of [ carbonyl-11C]WAY-100635 measurements in healthy volunteers using both arterial plasma and reference tissue input functions support the use of cerebellar white matter as reference region, to avoid the potential bias originating from binding of [ carbonyl-11C]WAY-100635 to 5-HT1A receptors in cerebellar gray matter.
Visual and chemical cues from aquatic snails reduce chironomid oviposition
Authors: Devereaux Jacqueline S.-L. , Mokany Allie
Published: May 2006

Chironomus oppositus sensu lato and the freshwater gastropod Physa acuta are distantly related taxa inhabiting temporary ponds. Although their distributions overlap, their peak abundances do not coincide in time and space. This study used field-based mesocosm experiments to examine the effect of P. acuta on the distribution and abundance of C. oppositus. Results indicated that chironomid larval abundance was substantially higher in mesocosms without P. acuta. The abundance of C. oppositus decreased as snail density increased, from one snail per litre. To investigate whether this result was due to differential survival by chironomid larvae or preferential oviposition by chironomid adults, both factors were manipulated separately and the mechanisms involved investigated. Direct-interaction experiments demonstrated that direct (mechanical) and indirect (water-borne) interference by snails had limited impact on the survivorship of third- or fourth-instar C. oppositus. Oviposition trials indicated that chironomid egg strings were five times less abundant in mesocosms containing both visual and water-borne snail cues. However, the presence of each of these cues separately did not result in a similar reduction. This study demonstrates that negative covariance occurred between larval chironomids and snails, with chironomids avoiding snails through oviposition site selection. This has important implications for understanding the mechanisms structuring freshwater communities.
Investigating vomiting and/or bloody diarrhoea in Campylobacter jejuni infection
Authors: Gillespie Iain A. , O'Brien Sarah J. , Frost Jennifer A. , Tam Clarence , Tompkins David , Neal Keith R. , Syed Qutub , Farthing Michael J. G. ,   The Campylobacter Sentinel Surveillance Scheme Collaborators
Published: May 2006

Campylobacter jejuniinfection frequently presents as acute enteritis with diarrhoea, malaise, fever and abdominal pain. Vomiting and bloody diarrhoea are reported less frequently. To investigate potential host, micro-organism or environmental factors that might explain the different clinical presentations, the features of laboratory-confirmedCampylobacter jejunicases presenting with vomiting and/or bloody diarrhoea were compared with cases who did not report either clinical manifestation. Single variable analysis and logistic regression were employed. Explanatory variables included food, water and environmental risks. Cases who reported vomiting and/or bloody diarrhoea tended to suffer a longer illness and were more likely to require hospital admission. Independent risks identified were being a child, female gender, consumption of poultry other than chicken, pre-packed sandwiches and sausages, and reported engineering work or problems with drinking-water supply. A dose-response relationship with vomiting and/or bloody diarrhoea and increasing daily consumption of unboiled tap water was observed also. Vomiting and/or bloody diarrhoea characterized the more severe end of the disease spectrum and might relate to host susceptibility and/or infective dose. The role of unboiled tap water as a potential source ofC. jejuniinfection in England and Wales requires further investigation.
Seroprevalence of human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I among pregnant women in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Armah Henry B. , Narter-Olaga Edwin G. , Adjei Andrew A. , Asomaning Kofi , Gyasi Richard K. , Tettey Yao
Published: May 2006

Infection with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) occurs mainly in Japan, Central and West Africa and the Caribbean Basin. Although antibody to HTLV-I has been reported among pregnant women in several endemic countries, there is no information regarding the seroprevalence in pregnant Ghanaian women. The reported seroprevalence of HTLV-I among healthy Ghanaian blood donors is between 0.5 and 4.2 %. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of HTLV-I among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at the 37 Military Hospital, Accra, Ghana, between the months of January and December 2003. The presence of antibodies specific for HTLV-I/II was tested using a particle agglutination test (PAT) kit and confirmed by Western blotting (WB). Of the 960 sera tested, HTLV-I/II antibodies were detected in 24 samples using the PAT kit. WB results indicated that, of the 24 positive PAT specimens, 20 specimens (83.3 %) were HTLV-I positive, one (4.2 %) was HTLV-II positive, two (8.3 %) were HTLV positive and one (4.2 %) was indeterminate. Therefore, the overall seroprevalence of HTLV-I was 2.1 %. Seroprevalence increased with age, suggesting sexual contact as the primary mode of transmission among women of childbearing age, rather than breastfeeding during infancy. The seroprevalence of 2.1 % reported here for HTLV-I in pregnant women in Accra is comparable to that of human immunodeficiency virus among the same population. In conclusion, the results indicate that HTLV-I is prevalent among asymptomatic Ghanaian pregnant women and thus there is a need to consider introducing antenatal screening for HTLV-I in Ghana.
The Lutheran Confessions and Popular Religiosity in Latin America
Authors: Rieth Ricardo Willy
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  The early history of European missions in Latin America led to a close identity between Confessional Lutheranism and German culture. Following World War II that connection has been all but broken, and Lutherans now swim in the sea of Latin American pluralism, including popular religiosity or the people's religion. Constitutive of the latter is devotion to the saints; and the emphasis on “remembering the saints” in Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon may become valuable resources in contextualization.
Does the Lutheran Church Have a Future? An Affirmation by a Central‐European Lutheran
Authors: Batka Lubomir
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  To Lutherans, the Augsburg Confession is important despite the widespread ignorance throughout the church regarding what it actually says. A re‐examination of the Augsburg Confession, for example, provides a realistic and profound anthropology, understanding the human being in terms of original sin (peccatum radicale) while, at the same time, graced by God through justification. Whether or not Lutheranism will have a future in an increasingly secular society will depend on the faithfulness and astuteness of the Lutheran Christians themselves.
Roadmaps to Grace: Five Types of Lutheran Confessional Subscription
Authors: Samuelson Erik T.R.
Published: May 2006

Abstract:  Though all pastors in North American Lutheran churches are expected to “subscribe” to the Lutheran Confessions, there are many different understandings as to what this means, each of which is tied to a particular understanding of the Lutheran Confessions themselves. Through the use of a methodological tool, the “Confessional Spectrum,” five approaches are presented. The author maintains that one of these approaches, “Roadmaps to Grace,” is the most helpful method for Lutheran Confessional theology in the 21st Century.