bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phylogeny and adaptive diversity of rodents of the family Ctenomyidae (Caviomorpha): delimiting lineages and genera in the fossil record
Authors: Verzi D. H.
Published: April 2008

Differentiation of genera of the modern (Late Miocene to Recent) South American rodent family Ctenomyidae would have been linked to the acquisition of disparate adaptations to digging and life underground. In accordance with this hypothesis, the delimitation of lineages and genera in the ctenomyid fossil record is evaluated here following an adaptation‐rooted criterion that involves both an assessment of the monophyly and of the adaptive profiles of recognized clades. The application of such a criterion, including morphofunctional information, delimited four cohesive lineages among crown ctenomyids (i.e. euhypsodont species of the Late Miocene to Recent):Eucelophorus(Early Pliocene–Middle Pleistocene),Xenodontomys‐Actenomys(Late Miocene–Pliocene),Praectenomys(Pliocene) andCtenomys(includingParactenomys; Pliocene–Recent); in addition, the results supported the status ofXenodontomysas a paraphyletic ancestor ofActenomys. The cladogenesis that gave rise to the crown group would have occurred immediately after the acquisition of euhypsodonty in aXenodontomys simpsoni‐like ancestor during the Late Miocene. This putative ancestor would have had fossorial habits and moderate digging specializations, an adaptive profile maintained inXenodontomys‐Actenomys.EucelophorusandCtenomyswould have independently evolved subterranean habits at least since the Pliocene. Although the earliest history of the only living representative,Ctenomys, is known only fragmentarily, remains from Esquina Blanca (Uquía Formation), in north‐western Argentina, suggest a minimum age of around 3.5 Ma (Early–Late Pliocene) for the differentiation of the genus. This date agrees with recent molecular estimates.
Rationale for a five‐grass pollen vaccine
Authors: Moingeon P. , Peltre G. , Bergmann K.‐C.
Published: April 2008

Grass pollen allergic patients are naturally exposed and sensitized to multiple pollens from various Pooideae species. The question arises as to whether such patients should be desensitized with extracts based on a single pollen or a pollen mixture. Neither conventional diagnosis based on IgE reactivity nor pollen counts enable the identification of which grass species are involved in patient sensitization. Significant cross‐immunogenicity is observed between allergens from Pooideae pollens due to their conserved amino acid sequences (e.g. >90% for group 1, 55–80% for group 5, 30–60% for other allergens, including minor allergens). Nevertheless, pollen allergens also contain species‐specific T or B cell epitopes, and there is evidence that at least 50% of allergic patients are sensitized to such distinct epitopes. In addition, substantial quantitative differences exist in the allergen (e.g. group 1, 2/3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 13) content of pollens obtained from distinct grass species. In this context, we recommend a vaccine consisting of a combination of pollens from five common and well characterized Pooideae including Anthoxanthum odoratum, Dactylis glomerata, Lolium perenne, Phleum pratense and Poa pratensis for desensitization purposes. This 5‐grass mixture is recommended because, (i) it has been validated, in terms of safety and efficacy, by established clinical practice; (ii) it better reflects natural exposure and sensitization conditions at the molecular level than a single pollen; and (iii) it provides a consistent and well‐balanced composition of critical allergens, while extending the repertoire of T and B cell epitopes.
CIRCULATING CATECHOLAMINES IN ASTHMA
Authors: Barnes Peter J.
Published: April 2008

Summary  Circulating catecholamines are not abnormally elevated in asthmatics. The normal circadian fall in circulating adrenaline at night may contribute to nocturnal wheezing by facilitating release of bronchoconstrictor mast cell mediators. Asthmatics who develop exercise‐induced wheezing show an impaired catecholamine response to exercise which may facilitate mediator release during exercise. Endogenous catecholamines in asthma may therefore play a modulatory role on the release of mast cell mediators.
Effect of long‐term beta‐adrenergic‐blockade on calf blood flow in hypertensive patients
Authors: Lepäntalo Mauri , Tötterman Karl Johan
Published: April 2008

Summary. The effect of a four‐week treatment with propranolol and metoprolol on blood pressure and regional haemodynamics of the lower extremity at rest, after exercise and during reactive hyperaemia was studied in 34 patients with essential hypertension, but without peripheral arterial disease, in a randomized placebo‐controlled trial. No significant difference in side‐effects recorded during the trial was observed between these two drugs.

Treatment with beta‐adrenergic blocking drugs reduced systemic blood pressure. Calf blood flow during vasodilatation was also decreased. The most marked changes were observed during reactive hyperaemia; mean calf blood flow was reduced from about 250 ml/min/litre of tissue to 200 ml/min/litre of tissue (P<0·01) by propranolol and to 214 ml/min/litre of tissue (P<0·01) by metoprolol. Both drugs caused a significant increase in peripheral resistance above the initial level during reactive hyperaemia (P <0·05). No significant difference in peripheral resistance was observed, however, when the active drugs were compared with the placebo. There was no difference between propranolol and metoprolol in any of the parameters. Thus, the flow reduction can mainly be attributed to the diminished perfusion pressure due to the decreased cardiac output caused by beta‐blockade of the heart.
Forefoot capillary filtration rate measured during lowering in normal subjects and in patients with occlusive arterial disease before and after arterial reconstruction
Authors: Eickhoff Jens H.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Capillary filtration rate (CFR) was measured by a mercury‐in‐silastic strain‐gauge around the forefoot when the forefoot was lowered 40 cm below heart level. In seven normal limbs, CFR was 0·061 (0·049‐0·086) ml (100 g min)‐1 against 0·049 (0·016‐0·071) ml (100 g min)‐1 in 24 limbs with occlusive arterial disease (p=001). About 8 days after arterial reconstruction CFR decreased to 0·039 (0·018‐0·071) ml (100 g min)‐1, but before 3 months after reconstruction CFR increased to normal values 0061 (0·037‐0·071) ml (100 g min)‐1. The explanation offered for the reduced CFR before and immediately after arterial reconstruction is temporary thrombosis in the smallest distributing arteries and in the arterioles resulting in heterogeneous flow distribution and decreased fluid filtration in poorly perfused segments of the capillary bed. The results speak against increased capillary filtration as the aetiology of the post‐reconstructive oedema.
Effect of adrenaline on exchange of free fatty acids in leg tissues and splanchnic area. A comparison with the metabolic response to surgical stress
Authors: HåRkanson E. , Rutberg H. , Jorfeldt L.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The present investigation was aimed at studying the acute effects of an adrenaline infusion on the exchange of free fatty acids in the leg and splanchnic bed.

Seven healthy males participated in the study. Adrenaline (40 ng/(min×kg body weight)) (0·22 nmol/(min×kg body weight)) was infused to produce a plasma concentration similar to that seen in connection with surgery (2·77±0·42 nmol/l). Leg and splanchnic blood flow were measured and the femoral and hepatic arterio‐venous differences for the total fraction of FFA were determined. 1‐14C‐oleic acid was infused intravenously so as to determine uptake and release of FFA. Measurements were made before and between 30 and 40 min after the start of the adrenaline infusion.

The FFA concentration rose by 140% and the FFA uptake in the leg and splanchnic region increased about three fold. For 3‐hydroxybutyrate the arterial concentrations as well as leg uptake and splanchnic uptake increased about six fold, four fold and eight fold, respectively. Ketogenesis accounted for a large part of the FFA uptake in the splanchnic bed during adrenaline infusion.

We conclude that adrenaline infusion results in pronounced changes in FFA and 3‐hydroxybutyrate concentrations and in the exchange of these substrates in leg and splanchnic bed. The adrenaline‐induced increases in FFA and 3‐hydroxybutyrate metabolism were generally more marked than those seen during and immediately after surgery.
Ventilation‐perfusion inequality during endotoxin‐induced pulmonary vasoconstriction in conscious sheep: mechanisms of hypoxia
Authors: Hüttemeier P. C. , Ringsted C. , Eliasen K. , Mogensen T.
Published: April 2008

Summary. In sheep low‐dose endotoxin infusion causes transient thromboxane‐mediated pulmonary vaso‐ and bronchoconstriction. These changes are paralleled by a decrease of arterial Po2. To elucidate the mechanisms of hypoxia we analysed ventilation‐perfusion (˙VA/˙Q) distributions by the multiple inert gas elimination technique before and after endotoxin infusion in six conscious sheep. We found that hypoxia after endotoxin could be explained by both a ˙VA/˙Q inequality and a simultaneous decrease in the mixed venous oxygen tension. The latter was due to a decrease of cardiac output. True shunt did not contribute to hypoxia as it was unchanged.
γ2‐MSH increases during graded exercise in healthy subjects: comparison with plasma catecholamines, neuropeptides, aldosterone and renin activity
Authors: Valdemarsson S. , Andersson D. , Bengtsson A. , Bogren M. , Edvinsson L. , Ekman R.
Published: April 2008

Summary. To evaluate the possibility that the proopiomelanocortin (POMC)‐derived peptide γ2‐melanocyte stimulating hormone (γ2‐MSH) has a role in circulatory regulation in man we studied circulating levels of this peptide at three different stages of physical activity in 10 young healthy subjects. The results were compared to simultaneously measured plasma levels of catecholamines, neuropeptide Y, vasopressin, renin activity, aldosterone and human α‐atrial natriuretic peptide (α‐hANP) and of the vasodilatory peptides calcitonin gene‐related peptide, substance P and vasoactive intestinal peptide. The plasma levels of γ2‐MSH‐LI (like immunoreactivity) increased from 1009 ± 101 pmol 1‐1 at supine rest to 1281 ± 79 pmol 1‐1 when measured after 10 min walking (P<0·05), and remained at this increased level also after a consecutive further increase of physical activity (4 min stair rush), 1293 ± 87 pmol 1‐1 (P<0·05 vs. at rest).

The increase in circulating γ2‐MSH‐LI levels preceded the elevation of the venous plasma noradrenaline level, but did not rise further with more pronounced activation of the sympathetic nervous system at the highest grade of physical activity examined.
β‐adrenergic blockade improves uniformity of local contraction in the anterior wall of feline left ventricles
Authors: Segadal J. , Lekven J. , Hexeberg E.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Uniformity of myocardial contraction has been put forward as an important regulatory mechanism of myocardial contraction, and we have previously demonstrated reduced uniformity of local myocardial contraction in the midwall of left ventricles during preload reduction combined with increased inotropy. The aim of the present study was to explore the isolated inotropic influence on uniformity of contraction, keeping loading conditions constant. Segment performance was measured by implanted piezo‐electric crystals in ten open‐chest, anaesthetized cats. One crystal pair, circumferential segment, aligned with midwall and epicardial fibres, whereas another perpendicular segment, longitudinal, ran close to endocardial fibre direction. Maximal systolic shortening of longitudinal segments remained unchanged following inotropic interventions, isoprenaline and timolol, whereas circumferential segments revealed reduced performance with timolol (8.4 ±1.0% compared with 14.0 ±1.3% during control; P<0.001). In the control state the longitudinal‐to‐circumferential ratio (LONG/CIRC) a quantitative measure of uniformity, was 0.32 ± 0.08. No change in uniformity occurred during isoprenaline infusion (0.32 ±0.11) but during β‐adrenergic blockade with timolol a clearly higher LONG/CIRC ratio was observed (0.56±0.06, P<0–005). Myocardial tissue blood flow measurement by radioactive microspheres showed a shift in transmural distribution with interventions so that subepicardial blood flow was markedly reduced during 0‐adrenergic blockade. The direction of subepicardial fibres approximates our circumferential segments. Thus, there may well exist a relationship between segmental shortening and perfusion. In conclusion, circumferential segments were most influenced by changes in inotropy in contrast to previous observations where pronounced changes in longitudinal segments with loading occur. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that reduced inotropy with timolol helped uniform local contraction as estimated by the increased LONG/CIRC ratio, a transition that could improve contraction efficacy.
Exercise and redistribution thallium‐201 myocardial scintigraphy: changes in distribution qualitatively unaffected by previous infarction
Authors: Grip L. , Bone D. , Svanet B. , Holmgren A.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Eighteen patients with stable exertional angina pectoris were investigated by thallium‐201 (201T1) exercise and redistribution single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) after coronary angiography. Eight of the patients had a previous myocardial infarct. Six patients had single‐, eight double‐ and four triple‐vessel disease. An exercise SPECT was acquired 10 min after the administration of isotope, injected 1–2 min before the termination of a symptom‐limited exercise test. A redistribution SPECT was recorded 3 h later. 201T1 activity per pixel was compared between the exercise and redistribution SPECT in relative and absolute terms.

For each patient there was a good correlation between activity per pixel in the redistribution SPECT and the corresponding pixels in the exercise SPECT (mean correlation coefficient 0–86 ± 0–08), irrespective of the extent of coronary artery disease or presence of a previous infarction in the pixel region. Relative wash‐out correlated to the degree of coronary artery stenosis (r= 0–48), but did not differ between infarcted and non‐inf arcted myocardial regions. A similar relationship was documented for pixels with visual ‘refill’ in the redistribution SPECT. This implies that most of the information in the redistribution SPECT was present already in the exercise SPECT. Thus, qualitative information of a similar kind is obtained from images acquired immediately after exercise and after 3–4 h of redistribution.
Increased body weight in men after the age of 55 is a risk factor for internal carotid artery stenosis: an epidemiological study of men aged 69
Authors: Jungquist G. , Nilsson J. Å.
Published: April 2008

Summary. A population‐based cohort of 393 men born in 1914and residing in the city of Malmö, Sweden, was examined at ages 55 and 69 years, respectively, with regard to risk factors for arteriosclerotic vascular and coronary disease. At age 69 an examination of the carotid arteries with Doppler ultrasound was carried out also, to establish the prevalence and degree of stenosis in the carotid vessels. The material was analysed for the following risk factors for internal carotid artery stenosis: systolic and diastolic blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, haematocrit, gamma glutamyl transferase (GT), blood glucose, body mass index (BMI), body weight change (BWC), and smoking. Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that only increased body weight between 55 and 69 years of age and the earlier known risk factor, smoking, remained as independent risk factors for developing carotid artery disease.
Different levels of sensory neuropeptides (calcitonin gene‐related peptide and substance P) during and after exercise in man
Authors: Lind H. , Brudin L. , Lindholm L. , Edvinsson L.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The aim of this study was to investigate the regulation of two sensory peptides calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and substance P, reflected as circulating levels during provocation of the sympathetic nervous system. Levels in hypertensives, diabetics (NIDDM) and controls were assayed before, during and after an exercise test (average work load carried out was 76 ± 10 kJ). CGRP levels increased progressively during exercise (P < 0.001), with maximum level at maximum exercise. This was significant in all three groups; hypertensives P < 0.001, diabetics P < 0.01 and controls P < 0.001. No differences in circulating revels of CGRP between the three groups were found. Substance P levels were fairly constant during exercise but increased 30 min after exercise (P < 0.01) in the total group. We hypothesize that CGRP might provide a counter‐regulatory mechanism to the sympathetic vasoconstrictor transmitters noradrenaline (NA) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) during sympathetic activation. Substance P did not increase during exercise. This suggests differential regulation and function of the two vasodilatory peptides.
Raman Spectroscopic Analysis of Advanced Ceramic Composite for Hip Prosthesis
Authors: Pezzotti Giuseppe , Yamada Kiyotaka , Sakakura Seiji , Pitto Rocco Paolo
Published: April 2008

A ceramic hip‐joint femoral head, made of a zirconia‐toughened alumina‐matrix material with the addition of small amounts of mixed oxides, has been evaluated with respect to environmental surface degradation in a moist environment. Microscopic insight into environmental surface degradation could be obtained according to Raman and fluorescence microprobe spectroscopies. By adopting an optimized confocal configuration for the optical probe, spectroscopic assessments could be performed in very shallow volumes, thus minimizing the effect on the spectra of sub‐surface portions of the material. Two main phenomena have been envisaged: (i) transformation of zirconia dispersoids from tetragonal to monoclinic polymorph, induced by aging periods at 121°C (0.1 MPa) in a vapor environment (in addition to a fraction of a monoclinic polymorph ≅20 vol% present in the as‐received femoral head); (ii) evolution of the (equilibrium) residual stress field stored within the joint surface from a tensile field in the as‐received material to a slightly compressive stress field after several hours of aging in a moist atmosphere. Exposures in vapor >50 h brought the joint surface into an increasingly tensile stress state. This residual stress field on the material surface may hinder the long‐term wear resistance of the load‐bearing femoral head, especially in the presence of microscopic impingements by microseparation contact and third‐body wear.
Microstructural Coarsening of Nextel™ 610 Fibers Embedded in Alumina‐Based Matrices
Authors: Schmücker Martin , Mechnich Peter
Published: April 2008

High ultimate strength is required for polycrystalline oxide fibers used as reinforcements of all‐oxide ceramic matrix composites. In commercial alumina fibers high tensile strength (2–3 GPa) is achieved as a result of a submicrometer grain size. However, the fine‐grained fiber microstructure is prone to coarsening, which limits their performance at elevated temperatures. In the present study, high‐temperature grain growth of Nextel™ 610 alumina fibers was investigated in detail comparing stand‐alone fibers with fibers embedded in alumina‐based ceramic matrices. It turns out that grain coarsening is most pronounced if the fibers are in contact with highly pure alumina. This observation can be explained in terms of outwards diffusion of traces of SiO2 which normally reduces the grain‐boundary mobility of the fibers. The driving force for the diffusion can be lowered by adjusting the silica content of matrices and fibers.
Nonisothermal Crystallization Kinetics of BixY3−xFe5O12 (0.25≤x≤1.00) Prepared from Coprecipitation Process
Authors: Fu Yen‐Pei , Tsai Feng‐Yi
Published: April 2008

The nonisothermal crystallization kinetic of BixY3−xFe5O12 (0.25≤x≤1.00) powders prepared by coprecipitation process has been investigated. The activation energy of crystallization was calculated by differential scanning calorimetry at different heating rates. The activation energies of crystallization of BixY3−xFe5O12 system are 492, 447, 377, and 353 kJ/mol and the Avrami constant n are 3.49, 2.25, 2.48, and 2.33 for x=0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1.00, respectively. The Avrami exponent values (1<n<3) were consistent with surface and internal crystallizations occurring simultaneously for 0.50≤x≤1.00, the value (n>3) for the Avrami exponent was consistent with bulk crystallization domination in BixY3−xFe5O12 system. The results reveal that increasing the substitution amount of bismuth for yttrium would significantly decrease activation energy in BixY3−xFe5O12 system.
A Polyethylene Glycol‐Modified Solid‐State Reaction Route to Synthesize Relaxor Ferroelectric Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 (PMN–PT)
Authors: Yu Shuhui , Huang Haitao , Zhou Limin , Ye Yin
Published: April 2008

By introducing polyethylene glycol (PEG) to the conventional simultaneously mixed oxide reaction route, the 0.65Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)–0.35PbTiO3 (0.65PMN–0.35PT) powders and ceramics with pure perovskite phase have been successfully synthesized. It is found that PEG interacts with PbO oxide in a way favoring the formation of the desired perovskite phase. As a result, pyrochlore‐free 0.65PMN–0.35PT powders are synthesized at a low temperature of 850°C. The ceramics sintered at 1000°C show uniform grains with the size ranging from 1 to 3 μm. The room temperature dielectric constant is 3440. The maximum dielectric constant is 16 220 at 1 kHz. This method can be applied to the synthesis of other Pb‐containing and Bi‐containing ferroelectric materials, especially the relaxor‐type ferroelectrics in which the pyrochlore phase is difficult to eliminate.
Synthesis of Ceramic Nanocomposite Powders with in situ Formation of Nanowires/Nanobelts
Authors: Yang Weiyou , Gao Fengmei , Wang Huatao , Zheng Xiangming , Xie Zhipeng , An Linan
Published: April 2008

A significant challenge in synthesizing nanowire/nanobelt‐reinforced ceramic nanocomposites is to uniformly disperse these reinforcements. Here, we report the synthesis of amorphous silicon carbonitride powders containing in situ‐formed single‐crystal Si3N4 nanowires and nanobelts via the catalyst‐assisted pyrolysis of a polymeric precursor. The nanowires/nanobelts are uniformly dispersed within the powder matrix. The ratio of nanomaterials to powder can be controlled by tailoring the experimental conditions. The novel powders could be useful for fabricating nanowire/nanobelt‐reinforced ceramic nanocomposites.
New Method to Measure Thermal Shock Resistance in Ceramics Using a Piezo‐Spectroscopic Technique
Authors: De Portu Gofferedo , Micele Lorenzo , Roldán Gutiérrez Manuel Alberto , Puppulin Leonardo , Munisso Maria Chiara , Melandri Cesare , Pezzotti Giuseppe
Published: April 2008

A new method for assessing the critical temperature in thermally shocked ceramics is proposed. It is based on the measurement of stress relaxation of residual stresses as a consequence of thermal shock. The change in the stress‐field is determined by piezo‐spectroscopic technique. The technique is described and the results analyzed. The values obtained are compared with those obtained by the conventional method based on strength degradation measured on test pieces quenched at different temperatures. The agreement among the data is very good.
Determination of CaO–SiO2–MgO–Al2O3–CrOx Liquidus
Authors: Arnout Sander , Durinck Dirk , Guo Muxing , Blanpain Bart , Wollants Patrick
Published: April 2008

In this work, the liquidus of synthetic CaO–SiO2–MgO–Al2O3–CrOx slags is evaluated in the industrially relevant compositional domain. Equilibrium experiments are carried out at 1500°C and partial oxygen pressure (pO2) 10−11.04 atm, and at 1600°C and pO2=10−10.16 and 10−9.36 atm. The studied basicities (CaO/SiO2) are 1.2 and 0.5. Al2O3 levels range from 0 to 30 wt%. Oversaturated liquid is sampled and phase relations are measured with quantitative electron probe microanalysis–wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (EPMA–WDS). The results are compared with the commercially available FactSage thermodynamic databases. Qualitative agreement is always obtained. Also a good quantitative agreement is found at the higher basicity, especially for the spinel liquidus. A minor but systematic deviation can be observed for the eskolaite liquidus. At the lower basicity, the calculated phase diagram deviates strongly from the experimental results, probably due to missing ternary interactions in the database.
Topochemical Synthesis of Plate‐Like Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 from Aurivillius Precursor
Authors: Zhao Wei , Zhou Heping , Yan Yongke , Liu Dan
Published: April 2008

Plate‐like Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT) particles with perovskite structure were synthesized by topochemical microcrystal conversion from plate‐like particles of layer‐structured Na0.5Bi4.5Ti4O15 (NBIT) at 950°C in NaCl molten salt. As the precursors of NBT, plate‐like NBIT particles were first synthesized by molten salt process by the reaction of Bi4Ti3O12, Na2CO3, and TiO2. After the topochemical reactions, layer‐structured NBIT particles were transformed to the perovskite NBT platelets. NBT particles with a thickness of approximately 0.5 μm and a length of 10–15 μm retained the morphology feature of the precursor. High‐aspect‐ratio NBT platelets are suitable templates to obtain textured ceramics (especially NBT‐based ceramics) by (reactive) template grain growth process.
Comprehensive Linkage of Defect and Phase Equilibria through Ferroelectric Transition Behavior in BaTiO3‐Based Dielectrics: Part 1. Defect Energies Under Ambient Air Conditions
Authors: Lee Soonil , Randall Clive A. , Liu Zi‐Kui
Published: April 2008

Defect and phase equilibria have been investigated via the ferroelectric phase transition behavior of pure and equilibrated nonstoichiometric BaTiO3 powder samples. Through fabricating the BaTiO3 materials under highly controlled conditions to preserve the equilibrium conditions with respect to Ba/Ti ratio, annealing temperature (T), and oxygen partial pressure (PO2), systematic variations in the phase transition temperature can be noted with respect to Ba/Ti ratio and T. From the data extracted, we can then determine solubility limits. Equilibrating the defect reactions at the solubility limits provides a direct approach to identify and calculate the defect energetics. The phase transition temperature decreased with increasing concentration of the TiO2 partial‐Schottky defects (BaTi1−δO3−2δ) and the BaO partial‐Schottky defects (Ba1−δTiO3−δ), and showed discontinuous changes in the two‐phase region. The formation enthalpy and entropy for the partial‐Schottky defect reactions was evaluated to be 2.32±0.1 eV and 10.15±0.7 kB for the BaO partial‐Schottky defect, and 2.89±0.1 eV and 8.0±1.5 kB for the TiO2 partial‐Schottky defects equilibrated under air annealing conditions.
Dielectric and Magnetic Properties of Low‐Temperature‐Fired Ferrite–Dielectric Composites
Authors: Hsiang Hsing‐I , Chen Tai‐How
Published: April 2008

The composition effects on the sintering behavior, microstructure evolution, dielectric, and magnetic properties of BaO·(Nd0.8Bi0.2)2O3·4TiO2 (BNBT)+Bi2O3–B2O3–SiO2–ZnO (BBSZ) glass–(Ni0.28Cu0.12Zn0.6O)–(Fe2O3)0.99 (NiCuZn ferrite) composites were investigated in developing low‐temperature‐fired composites for high‐frequency electromagnetic interference devices. An X‐ray diffractometer, a scanning electron microscope, and a dilatometer were used to examine the BNBT+BBSZ glass powder to NiCuZn ferrite ratio effect on the composites densification and chemical reaction between BNBT and NiCuZn ferrite. The results indicate that these composites can be densified at 950°C with no significant chemical reactions occurring between BNBT and NiCuZn ferrites during sintering. The BNBT+BBSZ glass–NiCuZn ferrite composites sintered at 950°C exhibit excellent dielectric and magnetic properties over a wide frequency range.
Dielectric Properties of Electrophoretically Deposited and Isothermally Pressed BaTiO3 Thick Films
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zhai Jiwei , Yao Xi
Published: April 2008

Thick BaTiO3 films were prepared on platinum metallic foils by the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique using BaTiO3 nanoparticles. In order to increase the density of the thick film, the green film was pressed under an isostatic pressure of 200 MPa before high‐temperature sintering. The microstructures of deposited films were examined using X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. Dielectric properties of the thick films were investigated. As the films grow thicker, the dielectric constant increases gradually and the dielectric loss decreases slightly. The experimental results indicate that isostatic pressing is an effective method to process thick films with dense microstructure and better dielectric properties.
Report from the Field: The Army's Land Grab
Authors: McCaffrey Katherine T.
Published: April 2008

The U.S. Army proposes tripling the size of its Piñon Canyon maneuver site for live fire exercises. Piñon Canyon is rich in cultural, archaeological and paleontological resources. There is a lack of transparency about military objectives, skepticism about the Army's true rationale, and concern for the military's desire to continue to expand. The Piñon Canyon case tests the boundaries of civilian primacy over the military, and the strength of civil society in asserting its rights in the face of military power.
Report from the President
Authors: Morgen Sandra
Published: April 2008

SANA member research provides critical insights into key issues facing contemporary North America. The section depends on, and thrives because of the research of members and the contributions of members who take on leadership roles. We thank them profusely. The article also focuses on the thoughts of past and current presidents about the challenges of engaged public anthropology. It is important to consider not only “how” to do engaged anthropology, but “why”.
Report from the Field: Redoing Chicago: Gentrification, Race, and Intimate Segregation
Authors: Mumm Jesse
Published: April 2008

“Do you know what gentrification is?” one new Chicago resident poses. “To some people it means just plain white.” Latino neighborhoods in Chicago have become well documented terrains of contestation over community space, as upscale redevelopment threatens to displace established residents. As people promote or challenge gentrification on the Near Northwest Side, they make reference to Latino and white spaces, practices, representations, market engagements, and political control—and race erupts in overt and covert ways. Recent anthropological work illuminates and unpacks ground level social dynamics with profound consequences amid this latest historical political economic shift. Both interracial contact and avoidance increasingly operate through mixed discourses and practices of diversity and inclusion on the one hand, and heightened and overt racial signification on the other. Intimate segregation is a lived contradiction, embodied in a new repertoire of practices that internalize the ways we interrelate even as we separate.
Inhaled corticosteroids do not affect behaviour
Authors: De Vries TW , Van Roon EN , Duiverman EJ
Published: April 2008

Aim: To determine whether children with asthma and on inhaled corticosteroids have more behavioural problems, such as aggressiveness and hyperactivity, as compared with healthy controls and with children under medical care because of other disorders.

Methods: Questionnaires were given to three groups of children: a group of asthmatic children with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), a group of children attending the ear, nose and throat (ENT) outpatient clinic and the healthy controls. Included were questions about health, medication use, demographical data and about behaviour, including the child behaviour check list (CBCL) and questions about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Results: Forty asthmatic children on ICS, 50 children visiting the ENT outpatient clinic and 183 healthy controls were studied. The total CBCL and mean ADHD scores of the children on ICS were 28.1 and 9.1, which were both significantly higher than the scores of the healthy controls (20.4 and 7.1), but not when compared with the ENT outpatient group (26.2 and 8.6). Further analysis revealed statistically significant differences between the ICS group and healthy controls in CBCL‐axes. There were, however, no differences between the ENT group and the ICS on one side and the healthy controls on the other.

Conclusion: There is a difference in behaviour between healthy children and asthmatic children on ICS, but not when compared with children visiting the ENT department. Although hyperactivity, aggressiveness and anxiety might occur in children on ICS, this is probably caused by individual susceptibility. Being under specialist care can possibly explain behavioural differences between children on ICS and healthy controls.
A SKEPTICAL EDUCATION
Authors: Senchuk Dennis M.
Published: April 2008

Abstract In a turn on the familiar notion that learning is inquiry, Dennis Senchuk suggests in this essay that an otherwise exemplary educational curriculum could benefit from the inclusion of some distinctively skeptical modes of inquiry. Senchuk construes two pertinent varieties of skepticism as inquiries into inquiry — one involving an inquiry into the methodology of inquiry, and the other focused argumentatively on specific outcomes of inquiry. The author stops short of interpreting these skeptical modes as the core of critical thinking, but sees them as affording opportunities for valuable linkages between philosophy and education.
Structural studies of nucleoside analog and feedback inhibitor binding to Drosophila melanogaster multisubstrate deoxyribonucleoside kinase
Authors: Mikkelsen Nils E. , Munch‐Petersen Birgitte , Eklund Hans
Published: April 2008

The Drosophila melanogaster multisubstrate deoxyribonucleoside kinase (dNK; EC 2.7.1.145) has a high turnover rate and a wide substrate range that makes it a very good candidate for gene therapy. This concept is based on introducing a suicide gene into malignant cells in order to activate a prodrug that eventually may kill the cell. To be able to optimize the function of dNK, it is vital to have structural information of dNK complexes. In this study we present crystal structures of dNK complexed with four different nucleoside analogs (floxuridine, brivudine, zidovudine and zalcitabine) and relate them to the binding of substrate and feedback inhibitors. dCTP and dGTP bind with the base in the substrate site, similarly to the binding of the feedback inhibitor dTTP. All nucleoside analogs investigated bound in a manner similar to that of the pyrimidine substrates, with many interactions in common. In contrast, the base of dGTP adopted a syn‐conformation to adapt to the available space of the active site.
Dose Determination of Cinacalcet Hydrochloride in Japanese Hemodialysis Patients With Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Akiba Takashi , Akizawa Tadao , Tsukamoto Yusuke , Uchida Eiji , Iwasaki Manabu , Koshikawa Shozo ,   the KRN1493 Study Group
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Cinacalcet hydrochloride is a calcimimetic agent that activates the calcium‐sensing receptor on the surface of parathyroid cells and inhibits parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion. To manage secondary hyperparathyroidism, cinacalcet, which lowers PTH levels without increasing serum calcium, phosphorus and calcium–phosphorus product (Ca × P) levels, may provide a new potential therapy. To identify the optimal starting dose of cinacalcet for Japanese hemodialysis patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism, this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel, dose‐finding study was conducted. One hundred and twenty Japanese hemodialysis patients with intact PTH levels greater than or equal to 300 pg/mL were randomized into four groups: placebo, and 12.5, 25 and 50 mg of cinacalcet. The treatment period was three weeks followed by a two‐week follow‐up observation period. Cinacalcet decreased serum intact PTH levels in a dose‐dependent manner, and also decreased serum calcium, phosphorus, Ca × P, tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase and osteocalcin levels. The treatment with cinacalcet was generally well tolerated in this study. However, the incidence of treatment‐related adverse events, such as gastrointestinal disorders and hypocalcemia, and the rate of withdrawal from the study due to treatment‐related adverse events were higher in the 50 mg dose group than in the other groups. On the basis of both efficacy and safety results, 25 mg has been identified as the optimal starting dose of cinacalcet for Japanese hemodialysis patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Intravenous Alfacalcidol Once Weekly Suppresses Parathyroid Hormone in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Al‐Hilali Nabieh , Al‐Humoud Hani , Al‐Helal Bassam , Al‐Azmi Mohammed , Al‐Kandari Nasser H , Johny Kaivilayil V
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Management of secondary hyperparathyroidism is difficult because of the interrelationship of parathyroid hormone, calcium and phosphorus. This study was carried out to assess the efficacy of intravenous administration of alfacalcidol once weekly versus twice weekly in patients with severe hyperparathyroidism. Twenty‐one hemodialysis patients with intact parathyroid hormone >88 pmol/L were divided into two groups. Eleven patients (Group 1) were given a once‐weekly alfacalcidol intravenously for 12 weeks. The starting dose was 4 μg which was increased or decreased by 1 μg per week. Ten patients (Group 2) were given twice‐weekly alfacalcidol intravenously for 12 weeks. The starting dose was 2 μg twice weekly which was increased or decreased by 0.5 μg/dose. The dose was increased or decreased according to serum calcium and phosphorus levels. Serum calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase levels were measured weekly and intact parathyroid hormone every 4 weeks. Intact parathyroid hormone reduced significantly (P = 0.0001) from 128.12 ± 35.42 pmol/L to 82.93 ± 65.20 pmol/L and from 113.74 ± 40.83 pmol/L to 64.24 ± 35.17.pmol/L after 4 weeks in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. After 4 weeks alkaline phosphatase declined significantly (P = 0.0001) from 146.0 ± 57.3 IU/L to116.0 ± 45.6.IU/L in Group 1. and from 139.0 ± 45.1.IU/L to116.6 ± 38 IU/L in Group 2. There were no significant differences in serum levels of calcium, phosphorous or their product. Interestingly, an adenoma disappeared in one patient from Group 1, and out of two adenomas, one disappeared from another patient in the same group. These results indicate that intravenous alfacalcidol once weekly is safe and effective in suppressing high parathyroid hormone in hemodialysis patients.
Compositional and Oxidative Analysis in the Saliva and Serum of Predialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients and End‐stage Renal Failure Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Bibi Guy , Green Yaakov , Nagler Rafael M
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  Chronic renal failure (CRF) is often treated with peritoneal dialysis, although increased oxidative stress has been reported in such patients. The purpose of the current study was to analyze and compare oxidative stress and other compositional parameters in the saliva, serum and peritoneal dialytic fluid (PDF) of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), including predialysis CKD patients and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients treated with peritoneal dialysis. Twenty‐three consenting patients participated in the current study. Saliva and serum samples collected from both groups and PDF from the dialysis patients were all examined for uric acid (UA), total antioxidant status, total protein and total albumin. The antioxidant enzyme peroxidase was examined both in saliva and serum, while the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) was examined solely in saliva. Various electrolytes were examined. Discrepancies were found between saliva and serum antioxidant status following peritoneal dialysis in ESRD patients. Oxidative stress was enhanced in the saliva but reduced in the serum. Significant changes in both oxidative‐related and non‐related parameters were demonstrated in saliva, serum and PDF. Salivary lactate dehydrogenase was substantially lower in the dialysis patients (by 92%, P = 0.02), as was the salivary UA concentration (by 22%, P = 0.05) and serum UA concentration (by 20%, P = 0.03). In contrast, salivary peroxidase and SOD were higher by 15% and 35%, respectively (P = 0.01), in these patients. We suggest monitoring salivary UA for assessing the baseline oral oxidative status of CRF and dialyzed patients.
CURRENT‐STATUS SURVIVAL ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY APPLIED TO ESTIMATING SENSORY SHELF LIFE OF READY‐TO‐EAT LETTUCE (LACTUCA SATIVA)
Authors: ARANEDA MABEL , HOUGH GUILLERMO , DE PENNA EMMA WITTIG
Published: April 2008

The objective of the present work was to develop a method for predicting sensory shelf life for situations in which each consumer evaluates only one sample corresponding to one storage time. This type of data is known as current‐status data in survival analysis statistics. The methodology was applied to estimate the sensory shelf life of ready‐to‐eat lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata cv.“Alpha”). For each of six storage times, 50–52 consumers answered yes or no to whether they would normally consume the presented sample. The results were satisfactory, showing that the methodology can be applied when necessary. The Weibull model was found adequate to model the data. Estimated shelf lives ± 95% confidence intervals were 11.3 ± 1.2 days and 15.5 ± 0.9 days for a 25% and a 50% consumer rejection probability, respectively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

When considering shelf‐life evaluations by consumers, the first idea is to have each consumer evaluate six or seven samples with different storage times in a single session. To do this, a reverse storage design is necessary, and in the case of a product such as lettuce, it would lead to different batches being confused with storage times. The methodology proposed in this article avoids this problem by having each consumer evaluate a single sample. Another issue with consumers tasting several samples in a single session is how representative this situation is of real consumption. The present methodology allows for a consumer to take home, e.g., a bottle of beer with an established storage time, and later collecting the information as to whether they found the beer acceptable or not. This is a situation much closer to real consumption.
CONSUMER PERCEPTION OF SANDINESS IN DULCE DE LECHE
Authors: GIMÉNEZ ANA , ARES GASTÓN , GÁMBARO ADRIANA
Published: April 2008

Sandiness, one of the most common defects of dulce de leche, is caused by lactose crystallization. In order to study consumer reaction to the presence of different levels of this defect, survival analysis statistics was applied to the consumer acceptance/rejection data of the samples. Limits for this defect were estimated by working with 10% and 25% consumer rejection probabilities. The consumers were also asked to score the sample sandiness according to their perception, using a 9‐point scale. Cluster analysis and correspondence analysis performed showed the heterogeneity of the consumer responses toward sandiness in dulce de leche.

Significant correlations were established between consumer sandiness and the number of crystals and sandiness as measured by a panel of trained assessors, the latter being the best indicator of sandiness as perceived by the consumers. It could be established that the consumers' and assessors' sandiness perception is clearly influenced by the presence of agglomerates, their size distribution and number.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Sandiness is an important defect for a segment of consumers who rejected samples with high levels of sandiness, suggesting the importance of avoiding the occurrence of this defect. Survival analysis methodology was used to estimate the maximum level of sandiness in dulce de leche before consumers reject it. As sandiness is a sensory defect that often limits the shelf life of dulce de leche, the calculated sensory limits could be used in future studies to estimate the sensory shelf life of dulce de leche.
SCALING OF SENSORY IMPRESSIONS
Authors: TOMASIK‐KRÓTKI JAGNA , STROJNY JACEK
Published: April 2008

Generally valid translation of the seven colors of the rainbow into the sounds of an octave was established. Over 500 replies were collected from all over the world to the questions about associations between those colors and the five basic tastes (sweet, salty, sour, bitter, umami) and between those colors and seven selected odors (ethereal, floral, camphor, pungent, putrid, peppermint, musky). Based on the replies, a list of standard associations was constructed. Units of taste, called mniams, and odor, called fooys, were introduced. These units, together with the specific permutation system, provided quantification of sensory impressions, quantitative evaluation of deviations from the standard, and translation of one sensory impression into another.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Standardization of sensory impressions could be helpful in the understanding and interpretation of emotions. Expression of the sensory impressions with some units might provide a quantification of temporary and permanent deviations from the standards. It could also be a convenient tool in passing information to people with malfunctions of certain sensors, or people with unusual talents and abilities. Simultaneous involvement of standardized expressions of human sensory impressions would be possible providing an increased efficiency of transmission of multisensory information and an increase in human sensitivity to the signals coming from outside. Trained conjugated perception of sensory impressions would be helpful in early warning against approaching disasters, health breakdowns, and so on. Potentially, some feelings called intuition would be lifted to the position of interpretable impressions.

The presented method should be of particular interest to the fields of psychology, psychiatry, criminology, sociology and therapy. It should also attract the attention of product designers, and of sensory analysts in food designing and nutrition.
SEQUENTIAL SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS FOR SAME–DIFFERENT TESTS: SOME FURTHER INSIGHTS
Authors: SANTOSA METTA , O'MAHONY MICHAEL
Published: April 2008

A Sequential Sensitivity Analysis was performed for same–different tests using low‐concentration threshold NaCl solutions versus purified water. The order of favorability for the sequence pairs (W‐S, W‐W, S‐S, S‐W) was different from the order obtained in previous studies (W‐S, S‐W, W‐W, S‐W). In the current study, the order depended on the judge's ability to recognize perceptual changes; this could be said to involve a decision rule or cognitive strategy that used a τ criterion. In previous studies, the orders depended on the judges’ ability to recognize individual stimuli; this could be said to involve a decision rule that used a β criterion. Further insights into the interpretation of these orders were discussed.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Sequential Sensitivity Analysis provides a simple first‐order ordinal model for predicting the sensitivity of difference tests, once suitable preliminary data have been obtained. This article provides new data that allow a fuller understanding of the sensory mechanisms involved in the model, which will improve the validity of predictions being made regarding difference test sensitivity.