bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human topoisomerase II‐α is highly expressed in sinonasal‐inverted papilloma, but not in inflammatory polyp
Authors: Hadar Tuvia , Shvero Jacob , Yaniv Eitan , Shvili Itzhac , Leabu Mircea , Koren Rumelia
Published: June 2008

Sinonasal‐inverted papilloma is a benign tumour with a high rate of recurrence, but possible malignant transformation. Therefore, inves tigation of predisposition to malignant transformation of sinonasal‐inverted papilloma gives clinicians the opportunity for adequate trea ment. Topoisomerase II‐α (topoII‐α) and Ki67 are markers of cell proliferation in both normal and neoplastic tissues and its level o expression could be used as a predictive parameter. Our goal was to investigate by immunochemistry the expression level of topoII‐in inverted papilloma, inflammatory nasal polyp and normal sinonasal epithelium and to compare it with expression level of Ki67. TopoI α nuclear immunostaining showed a differential positivity in the investigated cases. The topoII‐α index was 30.6 ± 12.8 in inverte papilloma, 10.7 ± 6.6 in the adjacent epithelium of inverted papilloma, but only 2.3 ± 2.0 in the normal sinonasal epithelium. The di ferences in topoII‐α expression between inverted papilloma and normal sinonasal epithelia were statistically significant. In inflammator nasal polyp group, topoII‐α index was 2.4 ± 2.1, and the difference in the topoII‐α index between inverted papilloma and inflammator polyp group was also statistically significant. Nuclear immunostaining for Ki67 followed a similar variation. The Ki67 index was 50.0 ± 20. in inverted papilloma, 9.0 ± 6.6 in the adjacent epithelium of inverted papilloma and 2.4 ± 0.9 in normal sinonasal epithelium. The di ferences in Ki67 expression between inverted papilloma and either adjacent or normal sinonasal epithelia were statistically significan Significant correlation coefficients were found between topoII‐α and epithelial thickness (r = 0.70, P > 0.0001), and between Ki67 inde and epithelial thickness (r = 0.71, P> 0.0001). In the inflammatory nasal polyp group Ki67 index was 5.9 ± 3.4. The difference in th Ki67 index between inverted papilloma and inflammatory nasal polyp groups was statistically significant. Significant correlation coeff cient was found between topoII‐α index and Ki67 index in inverted papilloma (r = 0.42, P > 0.05). These results suggest that the inverte papilloma contains a significantly higher cell population with proliferative activity by comparison with normal sinonasal and inflamma tory polyp epithelia, showing a significant correlation between topoII‐α and Ki67 expression, and indicating that topoII‐α could be a independent prognostic factor for a putative malignant transformation.
Suppressing the activity of ERRα in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes reduces mitochondrial biogenesis but enhances glycolysis and basal glucose uptake
Authors: Nie Yaohui , Wong Chiwai
Published: June 2008

Estrogen‐related receptor α (ERRα) is thought to primarily regulate lipid oxidation and control the transcription of genes in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway in skeletal and cardiac muscles. However, its role in white adipose tissue is not well studied. In this study, we aimed to establish a role for ERRα in adipocytes by down‐regulating its activity through its inverse agonist XCT‐790 in differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. We found that XCT‐790 differentially reduced the expression of ERRα target genes. Specifically, XCT‐790 reduced the expressions of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ co‐activator‐1β (PGC‐1β), resulting in reductions of mitochondrial biogenesis, adiogenesis and lipogeneis. Through suppressing the expression of another ERRα target gene pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 2 (PDK2), we found that XCT‐790 not only enhanced the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl‐CoA and hyper‐activated the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, but also led to higher levels of mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxidant species (ROS) production. Additionally, XCT‐790 treatment also resulted in enhanced rates of glycolysis and basal glucose uptake. Therefore, ERRα stands at the crossroad of glucose and fatty acid utilization and acts as a homeostatic switch to regulate the flux of TCA cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential and glycolysis to maintain a steady level of ATP production, particularly, when mitochondrial biogenesis is reduced.
A case of primary Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated cutaneous diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma unassociated with iatrogenic or endogenous immune dysregulation
Authors: Tokuda Yasutaka , Fukushima Mana , Nakazawa Koh , Oguchi Shinji , Koganehira Yoko , Yamaura Maki , Iijima Miwako , Murata Hiroshi , Uhara Hisashi , Takata Minoru , Saida Toshiaki , Katsuyama Tsutomu , Nakamura Sigeo
Published: June 2008

Cutaneous Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐associated B‐cell lymphoma (EBVBL) in non‐immunocompromised patients is very rare. Here, we report a case of cutaneous EBVBL in a 72‐year‐old Japanese woman without any signs of immunosuppression. She showed repeated high fever and skin eruptions on the face, limbs and palms. Histological diagnosis was diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. EBV infection was detected by in situ hybridization and Southern blotting. Immunostaining for viral proteins showed the patient to be positive for latent membrane protein 1 (LMP‐1) and negative for Epstein‐Barr virus nuclear antigen‐1 (EBNA‐2), indicating that a type II latency EBV infection pattern.
Transformation of cutaneous gamma/delta T‐cell lymphoma following 15 years of indolent behavior
Authors: Hosler Gregory A. , Liégeois Nanette , Anhalt Grant J. , Moresi J. Margaret
Published: June 2008

Subcutaneous gamma/delta (γ/δ) T‐cell lymphoma is a rare lymphoma, characterized by its unique immunophenotype and clinical course. It has been shown to behave more aggressively than its counterpart bearing the α/β receptor and has recently been removed from the subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma category for this very reason. We present a case of a patient with a 15‐year running diagnosis of panniculitis. Following these years of indolent behavior, the disease began an aggressive clinical course and she was diagnosed with γ/δ T‐cell lymphoma. Molecular analysis identified a T‐cell clone, which through retrospective analysis, was also shown to be present in the patient’s original biopsy material. We present this case as a rare example of initial indolent behavior in a lymphoma typically considered very aggressive.
Lipodystrophia centrifugalis abdominalis infantilis in a Caucasian girl: report of a case with perieccrine inflammation
Authors: Grande Sarpa Hege , Vanderhooft Sheryll , Bowen Anneli R.
Published: June 2008

Lipodystrophia centrifugalis abdominalis infantilis (LCAI) is a rare, self‐limiting disease typically affecting Asian children around the age of three. In classic cases, patients present with a hypopigmented patch with central atrophy and an erythematous border in the groin area. We present a case of LCAI affecting a female Caucasian toddler that shows striking perieccrine inflammation, a finding not previously reported in this entity. LCAI has been rarely reported in Caucasian children; as a result, there is sparse literature on the histopathological findings in this subset. This case illustrates how significant deep dermal and perieccrine inflammation can be seen in this condition, thus broadening the histopathological spectrum of this disorder.
Desmoplastic fibroblastoma: a case presenting as a protruding nodule in the dermis
Authors: Takahara Masakazu , Ichikawa Ryutaro , Oda Yoshinao , Uchi Hiroshi , Takeuchi Satoshi , Moroi Yoichi , Kiryu Hiromaro , Furue Masutaka
Published: June 2008

Desmoplastic fibroblastoma is a rare, benign, soft tissue tumor. We describe a case of superficial desmoplastic fibroblastoma presenting as a protruding nodule. A 41‐year‐old woman presented with a painless, firm, elevated nodule with ulceration on her left thigh. Histological examination from total excision showed a well‐circumscribed tumor in the dermis, which comprised of spindle, oval and stellate cells arranged in a haphazard fashion, accompanied by abundant collagenous stroma and inconspicuous vasculature. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were positive for vimentin, and focally positive for α‐smooth muscle actin and muscle‐specific actin, but negative for CD34, S‐100 protein, desmin and β‐catenin. We diagnosed this case as desmoplastic fibroblastoma arising in the dermis and superficial subcutaneous tissue.
Co‐infection of molluscum contagiosum virus and cryptococcosis in the same skin lesion in a HIV‐infected patient
Authors: Annam Vamseedhar , Inamadar Arun C. , Palit Aparna , Yelikar Balasaheb R.
Published: June 2008

A young human immunodeficiency virus‐infected man was admitted in unconsciousness state. Few papular skin lesions resembling molluscum contagiosum (MC) were present on the face. He was found to have cryptococcal meningitis using India ink preparation of cerebrospinal fluid. Histopathological examination of skin lesion revealed the presence of capsulated yeast forms of Cryptococcus within the lesion of MC. The co‐existence of MC and cryptococcosis in the same cutaneous lesion is rare, and it could be because of immunosuppression (low CD4 count).
Invasive differences among Porphyromonas gingivalis strains from healthy and diseased periodontal sites
Authors: Jandik K. A. , Bélanger M. , Low S. L. , Dorn B. R. , Yang M. C. K. , Progulske‐Fox A.
Published: June 2008

Background and Objective:  The purpose of this study was to determine any difference between Porphyromonas gingivalis isolates from periodontally healthy sites as compared to those from diseased sites with respect to the ability to invade host cells.

Material and Methods:  Subgingival plaque samples were obtained from periodontally healthy and diseased sites using paper points. P. gingivalis colonies were isolated and tested, using an antibiotic protection assay, for their ability to invade KB cells. P. gingivalis 381 and Escherichia coli MC1061 were used as controls.

Results:  Mean values of 16.79 ± 0.86 × 103 colony‐forming units/mL and 26.14 ± 2.11 × 103 colony‐forming units/mL were observed in invasion assays for isolates from periodontally healthy and diseased sites, respectively. P. gingivalis present in diseased sites had significantly greater invasive abilities than strains isolated from healthy sites. No statistical difference was noted between male or female subjects concerning the degree of invasion; isolates from diseased sites from both genders had significantly greater invasion abilities than those from healthy sites. A significant correlation was found between the increased invasive capabilities of P. gingivalis isolates vs. an increased probing depth.

Conclusion:  The increased invasion noted with P. gingivalis isolates from diseased sites vs. healthy sites, and the increased invasive capabilities with increasing probing depth, indicate that P. gingivalis isolates have a varying ability to invade host cells in the periodontal pocket.
Clinical outcome of diabetic foot ulcers treated with negative pressure wound therapy and the transition from acute care to home care
Authors: Wu Stephanie C , Armstrong David G
Published: June 2008

Diabetic foot ulcers affect millions of people in the United States of America and impose tremendous medical, psychosocial and financial loss or burden. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is generally well tolerated and appears to stimulate a robust granulation tissue response compared with other wound healing modalities. This device may be a cost‐effective adjunctive wound healing therapy. This literature review will focus on the clinical outcome of diabetic foot ulcers treated with NPWT, its implication in the transition from acute care to home care, factors that might influence clinical outcomes in home care as well as quality‐of‐life aspects in these patients. Patient care for diabetic foot ulceration is complex and necessitates multiprofessional collaboration to provide comprehensive wound care. It is clear that when we strive for limb preservation in this most high‐risk population, it is important to have an available versatile, efficacious wound healing modality. There is a need for an easy transition from acute care to home care. Resources need to be combined in a collaborative and synergistic fashion to allow patient to perform many daily living activities while receiving the potential benefits of an advanced wound healing modality.
The safety of negative pressure wound therapy using vacuum‐assisted closure in diabetic foot ulcers treated in the outpatient setting
Authors: Fife Caroline E , Walker David , Thomson Brett , Otto Gordon
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this project was to evaluate the safety of negative pressure wound therapy using the vacuum‐assisted closure (V.A.C.®) Therapy System (KCI, San Antonio, TX) in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) among wound centre outpatients. We defined events that could represent complications or adverse events (AEs) as a result of treatment with the V.A.C., including symptoms of infection, pain, bleeding and periwound skin breakdown. The frequency of these AEs among V.A.C. patients with DFUs was compared with those among similar non V.A.C. patients. This project prospectively queried data collected during routine clinical care from 16 outpatient wound centres using the Intellicure electronic medical record system. The electronic recordswere de‐identified according to HIPAA requirements and pooled to create a data repository dedicated to research (the Intellicure Research Consortium). Analysis was performed on 1331 DFUs representing 16 438 outpatient visits. A total of 1299 non V.A.C. and 72 V.A.C. DFUs were available for analysis. There was either no statistical difference between the AEs of V.A.C. versus non V.A.C. patients or the V.A.C. exerted a protective effect. We conclude that the V.A.C. is safe in outpatient use.
Effects of Pregnancy on Female Sexual Function and Body Image: A Prospective Study
Authors: Pauls Rachel N. , Occhino John A. , Dryfhout Vicki L.
Published: June 2008

Introduction

Sexual function through pregnancy and the postpartum period is an important aspect of quality of life. Despite this, prospective studies are limited, and the impact of body image on sexual function has not been explored.

Aim

To prospectively assess the effects of pregnancy on sexual function, and explore causative factors for sexual function alterations such as body image and pelvic floor symptoms.

Materials and Methods

Pregnant women completed the questionnaires in the first and third trimester and at 6 months postpartum. These included general information, questions regarding sexual activity and practices, and five validated indices: the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Body Exposure during Sexual Activities Questionnaire, short forms of Urogenital Distress Inventory and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire, and the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale.

Main Outcome Measures

An assessment of the FSFI domains through the 6 months postpartum and relationships between sexual function, body image, and pelvic floor symptoms.

Results

One hundred seven women were enrolled, 63 completed the final questionnaire. Sexual function declined through pregnancy and was not recovered by postpartum (P = 0.017); sexual frequency was highest prior to becoming pregnant (P < 0.0005). Sexual practices changed during pregnancy but returned to early pregnancy levels in the postpartum period. Although body image during sexual functioning did not significantly change during pregnancy, it worsened in the postpartum period (P = 0.01). In early pregnancy, low sexual function was associated with impaired body image, while in the postpartum period, worse urinary symptoms correlated with poor FSFI.

Conclusion

Sexual function worsens during pregnancy and is not recovered by the 6 months postpartum; poor scores may be attributable to low body image and urinary complaints.
Penile Epidermal Inclusion Cyst: A Late Complication of Penile Girth Enhancement Surgery
Authors: Park Hyun Jun , Park Nam Cheol , Park Sung Woo , Jern Tae Kyung , Choi Kyung-Un
Published: June 2008

Introduction

Epidermal inclusion cysts are benign lesions that can develop in any part of the body. However, the finding of an epidermal inclusion cyst in the penis is rare.

Aim

The aim of this article was to present the management of a case of a penile epidermal inclusion cyst that occurred because of late complications of a penile girth enhancement surgery.

Methods

A 52-year-old man presented with a painless, slowly growing mass in the penis, which was first noted after a penile girth enhancement surgery 20 years ago. A cystic mobile mass about 2 cm in depth was found surrounding the coronal sulcus. Excision of the mass was performed for diagnosis and treatment.

Results

There was no communication with the urethra. The pathological diagnosis was an epidermal inclusion cyst of the penis.

Conclusions

A penile epidermal inclusion cyst in adult men is rare. It can develop after an inadequate procedure for penile girth enhancement, and should be treated by complete resection.
Guilt by Association: A Historical Perspective on Huggins, Testosterone Therapy, and Prostate Cancer
Authors: Morgentaler Abraham
Published: June 2008

Introduction

A long-standing belief is that higher testosterone (T) will increase the risk of prostate cancer (PCa), yet recent studies do not support this view.

Aim

To identify the key historical and scientific events leading to the establishment and persistence of the belief in a T-dependent model of PCa growth, despite evidence to the contrary.

Methods

Review of key historical scientific articles regarding T and PCa.

Results

The T-dependent model of PCa growth arose from the work of Huggins and coworkers, who in 1941 demonstrated dramatic responses to castration among men with advanced PCa. These authors and others also reported a rapid clinical progression with T administration. This led to the concept that T was like “food for a hungry tumor” for men with PCa. Fowler and Whitmore recognized in 1981 that the negative effect of T administration did not occur unless men had been previously castrated. However, this critical observation was either forgotten or dismissed amid major changes in PCa diagnosis and management during the 1980s. More recent studies have failed to provide clinical evidence supporting the belief that higher T represents a risk for PCa. Factors contributing to the persistence of the T-dependent model included dramatic effects of castration, continued use of androgen deprivation for treatment of PCa, an influential spokesperson (Huggins), groupthink (failure to acknowledge evidence inconsistent with the prevalent ideology), and an imprecise formulation of the model (“more T, more cancer growth”), making refutation difficult.

Conclusion

The fear that higher T will increase PCa growth stems from a theory of T-dependent PCa growth that originated with observations in a special population (castrated men) that is not particularly relevant to T therapy in hypogonadal men. The negative view of T with regard to PCa should be recognized for what it is—guilt by association.
Exergy Consumption Through the Life Cycle of Ceramic Parts
Authors: Kita Hideki , Hyuga Hideki , Kondo Naoki , Ohji Tatsuki
Published: June 2008

Exergy is a measure that can commonly deal with the quantification of a variety of resources, products, and energy coming in and going out of the manufacturing systems. In this study, exergy analysis was conducted on a ceramic tube and a steel heater protection tube used in aluminum casting, and the amount of exergies consumed through their life cycle were calculated. In the production stage, the ceramic heater tube consumes much higher exergy than the steel one; however, analysis through the life cycle in seven years shows that exergy consumptions for the ceramic and steel tubes were 1223 and 1585 GJ, respectively. These results reveal that ceramics are effective in the reduction of environmental burden.
Evolution of a Nanocrystalline (Co,Ni)Al2O4 Spinel Phase from Quasicrystalline Precursor
Authors: Yadav Thakur Prasad , Tiwari Radhey Shyam , Srivastava Onkar Nath , Mukhopadhyay Nilay Krishna
Published: June 2008

This work reports on the synthesis of a spinel phase from a thermodynamically stable decagonal quasicrystalline Al70Co15Ni15 alloy. The Al70Co15Ni15 alloy, synthesized through slow cooling of the molten alloy, was subjected to milling in an attritor ball mill at 400 rpm for 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 h with a ball to powder ratio of 20:1 in the hexane medium. The differential thermal analysis, X‐ray diffraction, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy techniques have been used for characterization of milled as well as annealed powders. The Voigt function analysis has been used for calculation of the effective crystallite size and relative strain of ball‐milled samples. The crystallite size has been found to be ∼14 nm after 40 h of milling along with a lattice strain of 8.1%. The annealing experiments have been carried out under two different conditions: (i) in vacuum and (ii) in air. The results of the present investigation clearly revealed that the nano‐decagonal phase was stable in vacuum while annealing at 600°C for 40 h. However, during annealing under a similar condition in air, the formation of a nanospinel of (Ni,Co)Al2O4 of size ∼60 nm was identified. The possible structural evolution of the spinel from the quasicrystalline phase has been discussed.
Water‐Based Method for Processing Aluminum Oxynitride (AlON)
Authors: Miller Lior , Kaplan Wayne D.
Published: June 2008

A water‐based method for producing aluminum oxynitride (AlON) green bodies with a relatively high density is described. While alcohol is usually the medium for ball milling, this approach utilizes water to form a rigid network of aluminum hydroxide in Al2O3–AlN preforms. Al2O3–AlN preforms were prepared by four different routes based either on alcohol or water‐based slips, and underwent identical sintering procedures. Samples prepared using the water‐based method and pressure filtration reached a green density of 67%, compared with 52% and 47% for samples prepared from alcohol‐based slips and formed using pressure filtration and dry pressing, respectively.
Establishing a Gene Trap System Mediated by T‐DNA(GUS) in Rice
Authors: Chen Shi‐Yan , Wang Ai‐Min , Li Wei , Wang Zong‐Yang , Cai Xiu‐Ling
Published: June 2008

Two plasmids, p13GUS and p13GUS2, were constructed to create a gene trap system containing the promoterless β‐glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene in the T‐DNA region. Transformation of these two plasmids into the rice variety Zhonghua 11 (Oryza sativa ssp. japonica cv.), mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens, resulted in 942 independent transgenic lines. Histochemical GUS assays revealed that 31 T0 plants had various patterns of the reporter gene expression, including expression in only one tissue, and simultaneously in two or more tissues. Hygromycin‐resistant (hygr) homozygotes were screened and the copy number of the T‐DNA inserts was determined in the GUS‐positive transgenic plants. The flanking sequences of the T‐DNA were isolated by inverse‐polymerase chain reaction and the insert positions on the rice genome of T‐DNA were determined by a basic local alignment search tool in the GUS‐positive transgenic plants transformed with plasmid p13GUS. Moreover, calli induced from the seeds of the T1 generation of 911 GUS‐negative transgenic lines were subjected to stress and hormone treatments. Histochemical GUS assays were carried out on the calli before and after treatment. The results revealed that calli from 21 lines displayed differential GUS expression after treatment. All of these data demonstrated that this trap system is suitable for identifying rice genes, including those that are sensitive to induction.
Steroids from the Roots of Asparagus officinalis and Their Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Huang Xue‐Feng , Lin Yu‐Ying , Kong Ling‐Yi
Published: June 2008

One new (Sarsasapogenin O) and seven known steroids were isolated from the roots of Asparagus officinalis L. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis, including various 2D‐NMR techniques, hydrolysis, and by comparison of spectral data of known compounds. These compounds together with nine steroids which were previously isolated from this plant, were tested for cytotoxic activity. Among them, eight compounds displayed significant cytotoxicities against human A2780, HO‐8910, Eca‐109, MGC‐803, CNE, LTEP‐a‐2, KB and mouse L1210 tumor cells.
A Confocal Technique Applicable to Studies of Cellular pH‐related Signaling in Plants
Authors: Li Bing‐Bing , Gao Zhi‐Hui , Zhou Xiao‐Yan , Ren Hui‐Bo , Xie Min , Fan Yi‐Juan , Hu Jian‐Fang , Jia Wen‐Suo
Published: June 2008

pH may act as a crucial signal in both animal and plant cells. It is very difficult to monitor pH signals and this has largely hindered progress in the investigation of pH signaling, particularly systematic pH signaling. Here, we report the development of a confocal technique to monitor leaf apoplastic pH in intact plants, which is particularly suitable for the studies on root to shoot signaling. A variety of different pH indicators and plant species were tested. It was found that different pH indicators, for example, 2′,7′‐Bis‐(2‐carboxyethyl)‐5‐(and‐6)‐carboxyfluoresce (BCECF), SNARF‐4F 5‐(and‐6)‐carboxylic acid (SNARF) and DM‐NERF (NERF), were of different properties, and to successfully monitor pH at a sub‐cellular level, the comparability between the pH indicator and plant species must be involved according to their suitable pH range and loading characteristics. The loading characteristics of different pH indicators differ with different plant species, cell types and their developing stages. No matter what methods were adopted, BCECF and SNARF could not be loaded specifically in the leaf apoplast in sunflower, tomato, and Comelina communis L. In contrast, regardless of the methods adopted, NERF could be loaded efficiently and specifically in the leaf apoplast in C. communis, but not in other plants. In C. communis, the determination coefficient for in vitro and in situ calibration of NERF was very high, which was respectively 0.995 1 and 0.991 6, and therefore, the adoption of NERF together with C. communis could construct an ideal experimental system that is suitable for the investigation of pH systematic signaling. Ratio image analysis demonstrated that the leaf apoplastic pH was about 5.5 in non‐stressed conditions, and water deficit could trigger an increase in pH by about half a pH unit, which is the first evidence to directly indicate that pH is able to act as a systematic signal under water deficit conditions.
Assembly of the Protoplasm of Codium fragile (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) into New Protoplasts
Authors: Li Demao , Lü Fang , Wang Guangce , Zhou Baicheng
Published: June 2008

The cell organelles of the coenocytic alga Codium fragile (Sur.) Hariot aggregated rapidly and protoplasts were formed when its protoplasm was extruded out in seawater. Continuous observation showed that there were long and gelatinous threads connecting the cell organelles. The threads contracted, and thus the cell organelles aggregated into protoplasmic masses. The enzyme digestion experiments and Coomassie Brilliant Blue and Anthrone stainings showed that the long and gelatinous threads involved in the formation of the protoplasts might include protein and saccharides as structure components. Nile Red staining indicated that the protoplast primary envelope was non‐lipid at first, and then lipid materials integrated into its surface gradually. The fluorescent brightener staining indicated that the cell wall did not regenerate in the newly formed protoplasts and they all disintegrated within 72 h after formation. Transmission electron microscopy of the cell wall of wild C. fragile showed electron‐dense material embedded in the whole cell wall at regular intervals. The experiments indicated that C. fragile would be a suitable model alga for studying the formation of protoplasts.
Two New neo‐Clerodane Diterpenoids from Scutellaria barbata
Authors: Dai Sheng‐Jun , Shen Li , Ren Yan
Published: June 2008

Two new neo‐clerodane diterpenoids, 6,7‐dibenzoyloxybarbatin C (1, named barbatin D) and 6‐(2‐acetoxy‐3‐methylbutanoloxy)‐7‐(2‐carbonyl‐3‐methylbutanoyloxy) barbatin C (2, named barbatin E) were isolated from the whole plant of Scutellaria barbata D. Don. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods including extensive 1D and 2D NMR analyses. In vitro, compounds 1–2 showed cytotoxic activities against three human cancer lines, namely, HONE‐1 nasopharyngeal, KB oral epidermoid carcinoma, and HT29 colorectal carcinoma cells, and with IC50 values in the range of 3.5–6.7 μM.
Intraspecific Variations of Phosphorus Absorption and Remobilization, P Forms, and Their Internal Buffering in Brassica Cultivars Exposed to a P‐Stressed Environment
Authors: Akhtar M. Shahbaz , Oki Yoko , Adachi Tadashi
Published: June 2008

Translocation of absorbed phosphorus (P) from metabolically inactive sites to active sites in plants growing under P deprivation may increase its P utilization efficiency (PUE). Acclimation to phosphate (Pi) starvation may be caused by a differential storage pool of vacuolar P, its release, and the intensity of re‐translocation of absorbed P as P starvation inducible environmental cues (PSIEC) from ambient environment. Biomass assay and three P forms, namely inorganic (Pi), organic (Po), and acid‐soluble total (Ptas) were estimated in Brassica cultivars exposed to 10 d P deprivation in the culture media. Considering that −δPi/δt denotes the rate of Pi release, Pi release velocity (RSPi) was determined as the tangent to the equations obtained for Pi f(t) at the mean point in the period of greatest Pi decrease, whereas the inverse of the RSPi was an estimate of the internal Pi buffering capacity (IBCPi). Inter cultivar variations in size of the non‐metabolic Pi pool, RSPi, re‐translocation of Pi from less to more active metabolic sites, and preferential Pi source and sink compartments were evaluated under P starvation. The cultivar ‘Brown Raya’ showed the highest Pi storage ability under adequate external P supply, and a more intensive release than ‘Rain Bow’ and ‘Dunkled’ under P stress. Cultivar ‘B.S.A’ was inferior to ‘Con‐1’ in its ability to store and use Pi. Roots and upper leaves were the main sink of Pi stored in the lower and middle leaves of all cultivars and showed lower IBCPi and larger RSPi values than lower and middle leaves. In another trial, six cultivars were exposed to P‐free nutrition for 29 d after initial feeding on optimum nutrition for 15 d. With variable magnitude, all of the cultivars re‐translocated P from the above ground parts to their roots under P starvation, and [P] at 44 d after transplanting was higher in developing leaves compared with developed leaves. Under P deprivation, translocation of absorbed P from metabolically inactive to active sites may have helped the tolerant cultivars to establish a better rooting system, which provided a basis for tolerance against P starvation and increased PUE. A better understanding of the extent to which changes in the flux of P absorption and re‐translocation under PSIEC will help to scavenge Pi from bound P reserves and will bring more sparingly soluble P into cropping systems and obtain capitalization of P reserves.
Viability of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus R0011 in an Apple‐Based Fruit Juice under Simulated Storage Conditions at the Consumer Level
Authors: Champagne C.P. , Raymond Y. , Gagnon R.
Published: June 2008

ABSTRACT:  Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011 was inoculated in an apple–pear–raspberry juice blend at 4.5 × 109 CFU/250 mL portion, and viability was followed during storage in conditions simulating consumer use. Study parameters were age of the juice (2 or 4 wk), sampling size (one to three 250‐mL portions), incubation temperature (between 2 and 7 °C), and atmosphere (aerobic compared with anaerobic). Dependent variables were pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) level, and viable count. The DO level in the unopened PETE commercial bottles decreased from 10% to 3% over a 5‐wk storage period at 7 °C. In shaken and opened bottles, DO increased to 15% during the 1st week of storage, irrespective of sampling size. However, agitation of bottles having more that 250 mL of headspace initially increased DO readings to 30% of maximum, but the DO level subsequently dropped to 15% during the 1‐wk storage period between samplings. The presence of L. rhamnosus R0011 did not affect the DO data. The pH varied between 3.6 and 3.9, and was not influenced by L. rhamnosus R0011. However, the pH increased on average by 0.1 unit following multiple agitations and samplings. When the juices remained unopened in the PETE bottles, the viable population gradually dropped by 75% over 5 wk of storage at 7 °C, while in opened bottles reduction were only between 20% and 40%. Viability losses under anaerobic conditions were twice as high at 7 °C than at 4 °C. Data show that consumers can expect good viability of L. rhamnosus R0011 over a few weeks of storage in a refrigerator, even if the bottles have been opened and cells are exposed to oxygen.
Characterization of Amino Cross‐Linked Soy Protein Hydrogels
Authors: Caillard R. , Remondetto G.E. , Mateescu M.A. , Subirade M.
Published: June 2008

ABSTRACT:  This study focused on amino cross‐linking as means of forming soy protein hydrogels with modifiable properties. The efficiency of glyceraldehyde, a potential food‐grade cross‐linking agent, was compared to glutaraldehyde, a well‐known dialdehyde. The influence of the concentration of these agents on the degree of cross‐linking as well as macroscopic and supramolecular properties was studied. The effect of increasing the cross‐linker concentration was mainly an increase in degree of cross‐linking and gel storage modulus (G′) and a decrease in gel swelling ratio and increase in gel deswelling ratio. However, the cross‐linking influence was less pronounced in the case of glyceraldehyde. Glutaraldehyde displayed greater ability to form hydrogels with modifiable properties. Finally, electron micrographs suggested that cross‐linking agent type had no impact on gel microstructure.
Summer Temperature Patterns in Headwater Streams of the Oregon Coast Range1
Authors: Dent Liz , Vick Danielle , Abraham Kyle , Schoenholtz Stephen , Johnson Sherri
Published: June 2008

Abstract: Cool summertime stream temperature is an important component of high quality aquatic habitat in Oregon coastal streams. Within the Oregon Coast Range, small headwater streams make up a majority of the stream network; yet, little information is available on temperature patterns and the longitudinal variability for these streams. In this paper we describe preharvest spatial and temporal patterns in summer stream temperature for small streams of the Oregon Coast Range in forests managed for timber production. We also explore relationships between stream and riparian attributes and observed stream temperature conditions and patterns. Summer stream temperature, channel, and riparian data were collected on 36 headwater streams in 2002, 2003, and 2004. Mean stream temperatures were consistent among summers and generally warmed in a downstream direction. However, longitudinal trends in maximum temperatures were more variable. At the reach scale of 0.5‐1.7 km, maximum temperatures increased in 17 streams, decreased in seven streams and did not change in three reaches. At the subreach scale (0.1‐1.5 km), maximum temperatures increased in 28 subreaches, decreased in 14, and did not change in 12 subreaches. Models of increasing temperature in a downstream direction may oversimplify fine‐scale patterns in small streams. Stream and riparian attributes that correlated with observed temperature patterns included cover, channel substrate, channel gradient, instream wood jam volume, riparian stand density, and geology type. Longitudinal patterns of stream temperature are an important consideration for background characterization of water quality. Studies attempting to evaluate stream temperature response to timber harvest or other modifications should quantify variability in longitudinal patterns of stream temperature prior to logging.
Decreased oxygen saturation as a result of haemoglobin Titusville
Authors: Avellan‐Hietanen H. , Aittomaki J. , Ekroos H. , Aittomäki K. , Turpeinen U. , Kalkkinen N. , Sovijärvi A.
Published: June 2008

Introduction:  Our patient was admitted to the hospital due to shortness of breath. Although partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood was normal, oxygen saturation measured with pulse oximetry (SpO2) was markedly decreased. SpO2 and oxygen saturation of arterial blood (SaO2) stayed low during monitoring even with an increased fraction of oxygen in inspired air.

Methods:  Report of a case.

Results:  After extensive investigations, a rare haemoglobin variant, haemoglobin Titusville, with decreased oxygen binding capacity was discovered. This is the first haemoglobin Titusville case reported in Scandinavian countries.

Please cite this paper as: Avellan‐Hietanen H, Aittomaki J, Ekroos H, Aittomäki K, Turpeinen U, Kalkkinen N and Sovijärvi A. Decreased oxygen saturation as a result of haemoglobin Titusville. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2008; 2: 242–244.
Global Structural Loads Induced by Abnormal Waves and Design Storms on a FPSO
Authors: Fonseca Nuno , Pascoal Ricardo , Guedes Soares C.
Published: June 2008

The structural loads on a floating production, storage, and offloading platform induced by a large set of realistic (measured) abnormal waves are compared with the loads induced by “design storms” and also with the minimum values required by Classification Society rules. The design storms have a duration of 3h and correspond to the 100yr contour of the scatter diagram of the Northern North Sea. Time domain simulations are performed with a time domain seakeeping program that accounts for the most important nonlinear effects. The results are analyzed to obtain probability distributions of the sagging and hogging peaks of the vertical bending moment. Several theoretical distributions are fitted to the simulated realizations.
Development of Porous Electrode Gas Diffusion Layers for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Yakisir Dinçer , Mighri Frej , Bousmina Mosto
Published: June 2008

The aim of this work was to develop a porous film structure for an electrode gas diffusion layer (GDL) used for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). This film was made from a matrix composed of two immiscible polymers filled with a mixture of electrically conductive materials fabricated via a twin-screw extrusion process followed by selective extraction of one of the two polymers. The matrix consisted of low-viscosity polypropylene and polystyrene (PS) and the conductive additives were composed of high specific surface area carbon black and synthetic flake graphite. The conductive blends were first compounded in a corotating twin-screw extruder and subsequently extruded through a flexible film die to obtain a GDL film of around 500μm having high electronic conductivity. The PS phase was then extracted with tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent and a film of controlled porosity was generated. The morphology of the GDL porous structure was then analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. GDL porosity characterization was done by both Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) and mercury-intrusion porosimeter. The effects of PS concentration and extraction time with THF on GDL porosity were also studied. Pore-size distribution obtained by BET and mercury-intrusion porosimetry revealed that the GDL structure is composed by both mesopores and macropores. Mesopores represent more than 60% of the total pore volume inside the GDL film.
A Novel Design of a Cylindrical Portable Direct Methanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Lee Ming-San , Chen Long-Jeng , Hung Min-Fa , Lo Ming-Yuan , Sue Shan-Jay , Lo Chin-Hung , Wang Yung-Pin
Published: June 2008

Novel designs of a cylindrical and a flat portable direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) have been proposed in this research. Experimental cells have also been fabricated. Their maximum power output reached 12mW∕cm2 when operating at room temperature and with naturally breathed air. The weight and the volume of the experimental cylindrical cell are 27g and 30cm3, respectively, with 7.5cm3 of methanol inside. Its specific power and volumetric power density are 6.67mW∕g and 6.25mW∕cm3, respectively. The membrane electrode assembly was fabricated by hot pressing the electrodes purchased from E-Tek Co. The catalyst contents are 4.0mg∕cm2 of Pt∕Ru (80wt.% carbon supported) and 4.0mg∕cm2 of Pt (black) for anode and cathode, respectively. The new and compact design will make the portable DMFC lighter and cheaper, and bring it one step closer to be marketable.
Full Operating Range Robust Hybrid Control of a Coal-Fired Boiler/Turbine Unit
Authors: Zheng Kai , Bentsman Joseph , Taft Cyrus W.
Published: June 2008

Multi-input-multi-output robust controllers recently designed for the megawatt output/throttle pressure control in a coal-fired power plant boiler/turbine unit have demonstrated performance robustness noticeably superior to that of the currently employed nonlinear PID-based controller. These controllers, however, have been designed only for the range of 150–185MW around the 185MW nominal operating point, exhibiting a significant loss of performance in the lower range of 120–150MW. Through system identification, the reason for this performance loss is demonstrated in the current work to be a pronounced dependence of the boiler/turbine unit steady state gains on the operating point. This problem is addressed via a hybrid control law consisting of two robust controllers and a robust switch between them activated by the set point change. The controllers are designed to cover the corresponding half-ranges of the full operating range. This permits attainment of the desired overall performance as well as reduction of modeling uncertainty induced by the operating point change to approximately 25% of that associated with the previous designs. Robust switching is accomplished through a novel hybrid mode of behavior—robustly controlled discrete transition. The latter mode is produced through realizing that the off-line transfer speedup suggested by Zaccarian and Teel (2005, “The L2(l2) bumpless Transfer Problem for Linear Parts: Its Definition and Solution,” Automatica, 41, pp. 1273–1280) can be taken to the limit and incorporating the result into a robust bumpless transfer technique recently developed by the authors. As demonstrated by simulation results, the proposed strategy provides an adequate solution to the problem of robust boiler/turbine unit performance over the full operating range. This fact combined with numerical algorithm tractability, relative ease of its design, its insensitivity to implementation nonidealities, and accompanying identification methodology for nominal model generation makes it a viable candidate for industrial acceptance.
Variable Structure Decentralized Control and Estimation for Highway Traffic Systems
Authors: Becerril-Arreola Rafael , Aghdam Amir G. , Kohan Rashid R.
Published: June 2008

This work is concerned with the decentralized control of traffic flow in highways using on-ramp metering and variable structure techniques. Both the estimation and the robust control problem are studied. Sliding mode observers are first proposed to estimate the state of neighboring highway segments in a two-highway-link model. Two independent variable structure controllers use the resulting estimates to locally stabilize the traffic flow around a desired set point, even if accurate estimation is not always possible.
Systematically Varied Rogue Wave Sequences for the Experimental Investigation of Extreme Structure Behavior
Authors: Clauss Günther F. , Schmittner Christian E. , Hennig Janou
Published: June 2008

For an improved design of ships and offshore structures with regard to their behavior under severe weather conditions, wave height and steepness as well as the shape of the wave profile have to be considered. In this paper, the extreme new year wave as documented in numerous publications is varied with respect to wave height and period. These varied wave sequences are realized and measured in a model tank and applied to the investigation of motions and bending moments of a floating production storage and offloading ship. The results are compared to the responses in the original wave train. An investigation of the riskiness of extreme wave sequences in comparison with existing rules concludes this paper.
Stability of Flow Through Multistage Axial Compressors
Authors: Longley J. P. , Hynes T. P.
Published: June 2008

This paper describes measurements of the performance of a research stage operating in isolation and as part of a multistage compressor. It is shown that the stall point and the stalled performance of the stage are properties of the system in which it operates rather than a property of the stage itself. The consequences of this for the estimation of the stall point for compressors and compression systems are discussed. The support that the measurements give to assumptions made by mathematical models which use the concept of an “underlying axisymmetric” characteristic, are highlighted.
The Preliminary Design of Radial Inflow Turbines
Authors: Whitfield A.
Published: June 2008

A procedure is described that develops the nondimensional design of a radial inflow turbine rotor. The design is developed, for any specified nondimensional power ratio, with the objective of minimizing the inlet and discharge Mach numbers so that the passage losses are minimized. Initially state-of-the-art efficiencies are assumed, but these are later modified through the specification of empirical losses. The resultant nondimensional design can be transformed to absolute dimensions through the specification of the inlet stagnation conditions and the mass flow rate of the working fluid.
Effect of Inlet Flow Angle on the Erosion of Radial Turbine Guide Vanes
Authors: Eroglu H. , Tabakoff W.
Published: June 2008

The results of an investigation of the particle dynamics and the blade erosion at the impact locations in radial turbine guide vanes are presented. Attention is focused in particular on the effect of inlet flow angle on the erosion of the blades, since the flow entering the guide vanes usually has an incidence angle due to the upstream scroll geometry. The total erosion per blade is calculated as a function of inlet flow angle for three different particle diameters, which are 5, 15, and 60 μm, respectively. According to the results of this investigation, for each particle size there is an inlet flow angle for minimum erosion of the guide vanes. This fact has to be accounted for in the design of radial turbines operating in particulate flow environments.
Flow in a Centrifugal Fan of the Squirrel-Cage Type
Authors: Kind R. J. , Tobin M. G.
Published: June 2008

This paper presents the results of performance measurements and detailed measurements of the mean flow field at rotor inlet and rotor exit in three squirrel-cage fan configurations. The flow-field measurements were taken with a five-hole probe and yield total pressure, static pressure, and the three components of velocity. Measurements were taken for two casing throat areas and for two different rotors. For each configuration the flow field was measured for flow rates below, near, and above the best-efficiency point. Flow patterns are complex and there is reverse flow through the rotor blading even at the best-efficiency operating condition. Although complex, the main features of flow behavior can be understood. They were common to all three fan configurations.