bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catalysts, Supported
Authors: Nielsen Robert P.
Published: August 2004

Supported catalysts comprise the largest group of materials capable of catalysis, which is broadly defined as the acceleration of chemical reactions. Supported catalysts are extremely useful in virtually all areas of petroleum refining and chemical processing, which accounts for the fact that as a group they were the principal contributor to the $2.5–3.0 billion worldwide catalyst industry in 1990.

Supported catalysts are solid or heterogeneous catalysts in which relatively small amounts of catalytically active species, frequently metals, are deposited on the surface of largely inert, porous, shaped support bodies, such as pellets, rings, extrudate, and granules, which are sometimes referred to as carriers. Most materials used in catalyst supports are comprised of single‐ or mixed‐metal oxides, such as alumina, silica, magnesia, titania, zirconia, and aluminosilicates.

Some novel approaches to using supported catalysts have evolved among which are inorganic membrane reactors, the automotive catalytic converter, and catalytic distillation technology, used in the manufacture of methyl ‐butyl ether and certain aromatics employing catalysts such as zeolites contained in fiber glass cloth/stainless steel mesh bales packed in what is essentially a distillation column.
Regulatory Agencies, Survey
Authors: R. Passow Nancy
Published: August 2004

Passow, Nancy R. (LONZA, Inc.). Because of updates and reauthorization, regulations covering health, safety, and environmental issues change continuously and specifications can become outdated. Regulatory agencies provide assistance regarding the laws and regulations of these issues. The two main federal agencies involved in the protection of human health and the environment are the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Primary laws covered by the EPA are the Clean Air Act Amendments; the Clean Water Act; Resource Conservation and Recovery Act; Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act; Toxic Substances Control Act; and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. The principal function of OSHA is the protection of people in the workplace. Other functions of regulatory agencies, for example, agriculture, commerce, defense, and energy, are discussed.
Chlorocarbons and Chlorohydrocarbons, Survey
Authors: Reed Daniel J.
Published: August 2004

An overview of the chlorinated hydrocarbon industries is provided. U.S. demand, environmental concerns, general properties and manufacturing considerations, and chlorination reaction types are discussed. The article begins with a table of contents of the chlorocarbon and chlorohydrocarbon coverage in theEncyclopedia.
Students of Color Helping Others: Stay in College: A Grassroots Effort
Authors: Rhoads Robert A. , Buenavista Tracy Lachica , Maldonado David E. Z.
Published: August 2004

College students have a long and rich tradition of working on the front lines to effect change. Activist students of color have turned their attention to other students in need of personal, communal, and academic support. New research chronicles this powerful approach.
Electrospinning of Nanofibers: Reinventing the Wheel?
Authors: Li D. , Xia Y.
Published: August 2004

Electrospinning provides a simple and versatile method for generating ultrathin fibers from a rich variety of materials that include polymers, composites, and ceramics. This article presents an overview of this technique, with focus on progress achieved in the last three years. After a brief description of the setups for electrospinning, we choose to concentrate on the mechanisms and theoretical models that have been developed for electrospinning, as well as the ability to control the diameter, morphology, composition, secondary structure, and spatial alignment of electrospun nanofibers. In addition, we highlight some potential applications associated with the remarkable features of electrospun nanofibers. Our discussion is concluded with some personal perspectives on the future directions in which this wonderful technique could be pursued.
Reynolds number and impeller diameter effects on instabilities in stirred vessels
Authors: Galletti C. , Paglianti A. , Lee K. C. , Yianneskis M.
Published: August 2004

Flow instability phenomena in stirred vessels were studied with laser anemometry and flow visualization. The effects of fluid density and viscosity, impeller Reynolds number (Re), impeller design, diameter, and off‐bottom clearance were investigated in order to quantify the frequencies (f) of the macroinstabilities stemming from precessional motions. The instabilities are characterized by two frequencies, one present at low Re, and another at high Re values. For intermediate Re values, both frequencies were present. In all cases, f was proportional to the impeller speed (N). The parameter f′ = f/N was shown to be linearly related to the impeller diameter in the low Re range; f′ was not affected by impeller clearance. At constant Re, a change in fluid density and viscosity did not affect f′. The energy contained in the instability frequencies was shown to vary across the vessel. The implications of the results mixing practice are discussed. © 2004 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 50: 2050–2063, 2004
Thioredoxin interacting protein in Dutch families with familial combined hyperlipidemia
Authors: van der Vleuten Gerly M. , Hijmans Anneke , Kluijtmans Leo A.J. , Blom Henk J. , Stalenhoef Anton F.H. , de Graaf Jacqueline
Published: August 2004

Familial combined hyperlipidemia (FCH), characterized by multiple lipoprotein phenotypes, is the most common hereditary lipid disorder in humans. A mutant mouse strain, HcB‐19, with similar biochemical features as FCH patients, has recently been identified. The mutation causing the FCH phenotype in these mice is located in the thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) gene. The TXNIP gene in mice is located on chromosome 3F2.2, which is syntenic to chromosome 1q21 in humans, a region where several groups have positioned a locus for FCH. To evaluate the potential role of TXNIP in the FCH phenotype in humans, we analyzed the coding region, 5′ UTR and introns of the TXNIP gene by direct sequencing in 10 well‐defined patients with FCH and 5 healthy controls. We did not find any sequence variants in these regions of the TXNIP gene in patients with FCH. Our results suggest that different genes are involved in the FCH phenotype in humans compared to mice. We conclude that in our Dutch FCH patients, the TXNIP gene, based on its intronic, exonic, and 5′ UTR sequences, is not involved as a major contributor to the FCH phenotype. This article contains supplementary material, which may be viewed at the American Journal of Medical Genetics website at http://www.interscience.wiley.com/jpages/0148‐7299/suppmat/index.html. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Majewski osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPD II): Natural history and clinical findings
Authors: Hall Judith G. , Flora Christina , Scott Charles I. , Pauli Richard M. , Tanaka Kimi I.
Published: August 2004

A description of the clinical features of Majewski osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II (MOPD II) is presented based on 58 affected individuals (27 from the literature and 31 previously unreported cases). The remarkable features of MOPD II are: severe intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), severe postnatal growth retardation; relatively proportionate head size at birth which progresses to true and disproportionate microcephaly; progressive disproportion of the short stature secondary to shortening of the distal and middle segments of the limbs; a progressive bony dysplasia with metaphyseal changes in the limbs; epiphyseal delay; progressive loose‐jointedness with occasional dislocation or subluxation of the knees, radial heads, and hips; unusual facial features including a prominent nose, eyes which appear prominent in infancy and early childhood, ears which are proportionate, mildly dysplastic and usually missing the lobule; a high squeaky voice; abnormally, small, and often dysplastic or missing dentition; a pleasant, outgoing, sociable personality; and autosomal recessive inheritance. Far‐sightedness, scoliosis, unusual pigmentation, and truncal obesity often develop with time. Some individuals seem to have increased susceptibility to infections. A number of affected individuals have developed dilation of the CNS arteries variously described as aneurysms and Moya Moya disease. These vascular changes can be life threatening, even in early years because of rupture, CNS hemorrhage, and strokes. There is variability between affected individuals even within the same family. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pregnancy outcome following rubella vaccination: A prospective controlled study
Authors: Bar‐Oz Benjamin , Levichek Zina , Moretti Myla E. , Mah Corinna , Andreou Stella , Koren Gideon
Published: August 2004

The rubella virus is a potent human teratogen. Because the rubella vaccine is prepared with live virus, a high level of anxiety surrounds exposure in pregnancy. There is relatively scarce data on fetal risk following vaccination in pregnancy, and all of the available data were collected retrospectively. Our objective was to examine whether periconceptional exposure to rubella vaccine can cause the congenital rubella syndrome, and to compare the rate of major malformations and developmental milestones among offspring of women who received rubella vaccine 3 months pre‐ or post‐conception to an unexposed comparison group. We collected prospectively and followed up 94 women who received rubella vaccination 3 months pre‐ or post‐conception and a comparison group that consisted of 94 women who were counseled during pregnancy in a similar manner but were not exposed to known teratogens. The controls were matched for age, smoking, alcohol, and drug use. Not any of the women exposed to the vaccine gave birth to a child with congenital rubella syndrome. Rates of major malformations were similar in both groups as were birth weights and developmental milestones. In contrast, the rate of therapeutic abortions was higher in the exposed group (7.4% vs. 0%) (P < 0.05), due to fears of teratogenicity. We conclude that rubella vaccination in pregnancy does not appear to affect pregnancy outcome in general or cause congenital rubella syndrome in particular. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Macrocephaly‐cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita: Report of six new patients and a review
Authors: Lapunzina Pablo , Gairí Alba , Delicado Alicia , Mori M. Angeles , Torres M. Luisa de , Goma Anton , Navia Marcelo , Pajares Isidora López
Published: August 2004

We report on six additional patients with macrocephaly‐cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita (M‐CMTC; MIM 602501) and review the literature. This syndrome is a multiple congenital anomalies/mental retardation and overgrowth disorder comprising macrocephaly, cutis marmorata, vascular marks of lip and/or philtrum, syndactyly, hemihypertrophy, CNS anomalies, and developmental delay. Based on the findings in our 6 patients and on 69 patients previously reported we listed the very frequent (observed in >75%), frequent (25–75%), and less frequent (>25%) components of the syndrome. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simulation of the population dynamics and social structure of the Virunga mountain gorillas
Authors: Robbins Martha M. , Robbins Andrew M.
Published: August 2004

An agent‐based model was developed to simulate the growth rate, age structure, and social system of the endangered mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) in the Virunga Volcanoes region. The model was used to compare two types of data: 1) estimates of the overall population size, age structure, and social structure, as measured by six censuses of the entire region that were conducted in 1971–2000; and 2) information about birth rates, mortality rates, dispersal patterns, and other life history events, as measured from three to five habituated research groups since 1967. On the basis of the research‐group data, the “base simulation” predicted a higher growth rate than that observed from the census data (3% vs. 1%). This was as expected, because the research groups have indeed grown faster than the overall population. Additional simulations suggested that the research groups primarily have a lower mortality rate, rather than higher birth rates, compared to the overall population. Predictions from the base simulation generally fell within the range of census values for the average group size, the percentage of multimale groups, and the distribution of females among groups. However, other discrepancies predicted from the research‐group data were a higher percentage of adult males than observed, an overestimation of the number of multimale groups with more than two silverbacks, and an overestimated number of groups with only two or three members. Possible causes for such discrepancies include inaccuracies in the census techniques used, and/or limitations with the long‐term demographic data set obtained from only a few research groups of a long‐lived species. In particular, estimates of mortality and male dispersal obtained from the research groups may not be representative of the entire population. Our final simulation addressed these discrepancies, and provided a better basis for further studies on the complex relationships among individual life history events, group composition, population age structure, and growth rate patterns. Am. J. Primatol. 63:201–223, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of primates in research: A global overview
Authors: Carlsson Hans‐Erik , Schapiro Steven J. , Farah Idle , Hau Jann
Published: August 2004

We assessed the use of nonhuman primates and nonhuman primate biological material in research by reviewing studies published in 2001 in peer‐reviewed journals. The number and species of primates used, the origin of the animals, the type of study, the area of research of the investigation, and the location at which the research was performed were tabulated. Additionally, factors related to the animals that may have affected the outcome of the experiments were recorded. A total of 2,937 articles involving 4,411 studies that employed nonhuman primates or nonhuman primate biological material were identified and analyzed. More than 41,000 animals were represented in the studies published in 2001. In the 14% of studies for which re‐use could be determined, 69% involved animals that had been used in previous experiments. Published studies most commonly used nonhuman primates or nonhuman primate biological material from the species Chlorocebus aethiops (19%), Macaca mulatta (18%), M. fascicularis (9%), and Papio spp. (6%). Of these studies, 54% were classified as in vitro studies, 14% as noninvasive, 30% as chronic, and 1% were considered acute. Nonhuman primates were primarily used in research areas in which they appear to be the most appropriate models for humans. The most common areas of research were microbiology (including HIV/AIDS (26%)), neuroscience (19%), and biochemistry/chemistry (12%). Most (84%) of the primate research published in 2001 was conducted in North America, Europe, and Japan. The animals and conditions under which they were housed and used were rarely described. Although it is estimated that nonhuman primates account for an extremely small fraction of all animals used in research, their special status makes it important to report the many husbandry and environmental factors that influence the research results generated. This analysis has identified that editors rarely require authors to provide comprehensive information concerning the subjects (e.g., their origin), treatment conditions, and experimental procedures utilized in the studies they publish. The present analysis addresses the use of primates for research, including the effects of a shortage of suitable nonhuman primate subjects in many research areas. Am. J. Primatol. 63:225–237, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Organoboron water, part I: Synthesis and multinuclear magnetic resonance studies on the structure of tetramethyldialuminoxane
Authors: Kacprzak Kinga , Serwatowski Janusz
Published: August 2004

The structure of tetramethyldialuminoxane was studied. The low‐temperature 1H and 13C NMR spectra suggest that the methyl groups bridge the aluminum atoms in the dialuminoxane trimer. A new method of synthesis of methylaluminoxanes and tetramethyldialuminoxanes in the reaction of tetraethyldiboroxane (organoboron water) with trimethylaluminum (1:1 and 1:2 respectively) was applied to synthesize the investigated system. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Di‐ and tri‐organotin(IV) derivatives of (Z)‐3‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐2‐phenyl‐2‐propenoic acid: spectroscopic characterization and biocidal studies. Crystal structure analysis of tetrameric tri‐n‐butyltin(IV) (Z)‐3‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐2‐phenyl‐2‐propenoate
Authors: Sadiq‐ur‐Rehman  , Ali Saqib , Badshah Amin , Malik Abdul , Ahmed Ejaz , Jin Guo‐Xin , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: August 2004

Seven new organotin(IV) compounds containing the carboxylate ligand (Z)‐3‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐2‐phenyl‐2‐propenoate (L) have been synthesized with formulations of R2SnL2 (R = Me, Et, n‐Bu, n‐Oct) and R3SnL, (R = Me, n‐Bu, Ph). All compounds have been studied in solution by multinuclear (1H, 13C, 119Sn) magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The solid‐state structures have been investigated by means of FT‐IR spectroscopy and the molecular structure of one example, namely n‐Bu3SnL, has been determined by X‐ray crystallography. The novel structure of n‐Bu3SnL is tetrameric owing to the presence of bidentate bridging carboxylate ligands. The solution studies show collapse of the intermolecular interactions observed in the solid state to yield monomeric species. Some of the new compounds were found to display significant biocidal activities. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toughening of polypropylene–ethylene copolymer with nanosized CaCO3 and styrene–butadiene–styrene
Authors: Chen Jianfeng , Wang Guoquan , Zeng Xiaofei , Zhao Hongying , Cao Dapeng , Yun Jimmy , Tan Chee King
Published: August 2004

Nanocomposites of nanosized CaCO3/polypropylene–ethylene copolymer (PPE) and nanosized CaCO3/PPE/styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) were prepared by using a two‐roll mill and a single‐screw extruder. By adding CaCO3 nanoparticles into the PPE matrix, the toughness of the matrix substantially improved. At a nanosized CaCO3 content of 12 phr (parts per hundred PPE resin by weight), the impact strength of CaCO3/PPE at room temperature reached 61.6 kJ/m2, which is 3.02 times that of unfilled PPE matrix. In the nanosized CaCO3/PPE/SBS system, the rubbery phase and filler phase are independently dispersed in the PPE matrix. As a result of the addition of nanosized CaCO3, the viscosity of PPE matrix significantly increased. The increased shear force during compounding continuously breaks down SBS particles, resulting in the reduction of the SBS particle size and improving the dispersion of SBS in the polymer matrix. Thus the toughening effect of SBS on matrix was improved. Simultaneously, the existence of SBS provides the matrix with a good intrinsic toughness, satisfying the condition that nanosized inorganic particles of CaCO3 efficiently toughen the polymer matrix. The synergistic toughening function of nanosized CaCO3 and SBS on PPE matrix was exhibited. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 796–802, 2004
Ultrasonically irradiated emulsion polymerization of styrene in the presence of a polymeric surfactant
Authors: Zhang Jingzhi , Cao Ya , He Yuhui
Published: August 2004

A polymeric surfactant based on carboxymethyl cellulose and alkyl poly(etheroxy) acrylate (CMC‐A9) was used in ultrasonically irradiated emulsion polymerization of styrene. Polystyrene nanoparticles (30–60 nm) with high molecular weight were prepared. Compared with the conventional emulsion polymerization, the introduction of CMC‐A9 in the polymerization yielded higher monomer conversion in a shorter time and under lower ultrasonic power output. A single latex particle contained only a few polymer chains with average chain numbers of 2–19. The particle size and polymer chain per particle could be controlled by changing the concentration of CMC‐A9 and SDS. The effect of CMC‐A9 and SDS on ultrasonically irradiated emulsion polymerization kinetics was studied. The results indicated that the ultrasonically irradiated emulsion polymerization had a similar nucleation mechanism to a miniemulsion polymerization system. This is attributed to the high ratio of radicals and a great number of smaller sizes of monomer droplets produced under ultrasonic irradiation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 763–768, 2004
Blend membranes prepared from cellulose and soy protein isolate in NaOH/thiourea aqueous solution
Authors: Chen Yun , Zhang Lina
Published: August 2004

We have successfully prepared a series of blend membranes from cellulose and soy protein isolate (SPI) in NaOH/thiourea aqueous solution by coagulating with 5 wt % H2SO4 aqueous solution. The structure and properties of the membranes were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet‐visible spectrometry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy, and tensile testing. The effects of SPI content (WSPI) on the structure and properties of the blend membranes were investigated. The results revealed that SPI and cellulose are miscible in a good or a certain extent when the SPI content is less than 40 wt %. The pore structure and properties of the blend membranes were significantly improved by incorporation of SPI into cellulose. With an increase in WSPI from 10 to 50 wt %, the apparent size of the pore (2re) measured by SEM for the blend membranes increased from 115 nm to 2.43 μm, and the pore size (2rf) measured by the flow rate method increased from 43 to 59 nm. The tensile strength (σb) and thermal stability of the blend membranes with lower than 40 wt % of WSPI are higher than that of the pure cellulose membrane, owing to the strong interaction between SPI and cellulose. The values of tensile strength and elongation at break for the blend membranes with 10 wt % of WSPI reached 136 MPa and 12%, respectively. The blend membranes containing protein can be used in water because of keeping σ of 10 to 37 MPa. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 748–757, 2004
Characterizing the measurement precision of thermal resistance measurements
Authors: Engel Jan , van Kempen Joris
Published: August 2004

The measurement process of the thermal interface resistance tester combines physical measurements and computer simulations to obtain the measured value of the thermal resistance of a material. The computer simulation model is calibrated by 14 parameters that have been estimated from various experiments. The estimation errors in these parameters contribute to the measurement error in the thermal resistance. The following research questions were raised: (1) What calibration parameter errors have a large contribution to the thermal resistance error? (2) How does this error depend on the reference value of the thermal resistance measured under standard conditions? The main point in this paper is to show the use of statistical modelling to estimate the effect of the calibration parameter errors on the thermal resistance measurement precision by means of a tolerance design procedure that is based on the model. Our final conclusion is that two out of 14 calibration parameters dominate the thermal resistance error, and that their effects strongly depend on the reference thermal resistance. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A statistical analysis of the customer satisfaction with car dealers
Authors: Roscino Annarita , Pollice Alessio
Published: August 2004

In market research, such as for the measure of the customer satisfaction, data are collected through questionnaires. Responses are often classified into ordered categories, so observed variables are ordinal and the rate of missing data may be very high. In this paper, a method for the analysis of a categorical and incomplete data matrix is proposed. Our methodology is applied to data collected by a market survey of Fiat Auto in order to show the latent dimensions underlying the customer satisfaction with car dealers. After multiple imputation of missing values the polychoric correlation matrix, measuring the manifest variables correlations, is computed and used as a proper input to factor analysis. Two factors underlying the several judgement items are thus obtained and their weights on the global judgement ordinal variable are then estimated by ordered probit regression. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Control charts: a cost‐optimization approach for processes with random shifts
Authors: Zempléni András , Véber Miklós , Duarte Belmiro , Saraiva Pedro
Published: August 2004

In this paper we describe an approach for establishing control limits and sampling times which derives from economic performance criteria and a model for random shifts. The total cost related to both production and control is calculated, based on cost estimates for false alarms, for not identifying a true out of control situation, and for obtaining a data record through sampling. We describe the complete process for applying the method and compare with conventional procedures to real data from a Portuguese pulp and paper industrial plant. It turns out that substantial cost‐reductions may be obtained. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian reliability analysis of complex repairable systems
Authors: Pievatolo Antonio , Ruggeri Fabrizio
Published: August 2004

Stemming from a consulting project about a gas distribution network, a new, Bayesian model is proposed to describe failures in a complex, expanding over time, repairable system, which is split into components installed over different years. Both exchangeable and independent Poisson processes, homogeneous in space but not in time, are used to model the components. The model takes also into account missing data, due either to unrecorded early failures or unknown installation dates of failed parts.

Actual escape data from a gas distribution network illustrate the implementation of the model, which relies on the use of Markov chain Monte Carlo methods. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global European portfolio construction: Does a changing volatility structure matter?
Authors: Polasek Wolfgang , Pojarliev Momtchil
Published: August 2004

We propose a multivariate time series model to forecast the returns and volatilities of 15 European financial markets. Using the approach of mean‐variance portfolios we develop several strategies which are based on the predictions of high‐dimensional VAR‐GARCH models for future volatilities. We explore the value of volatility timing strategies by simplifying the forecasting model. One approach for information blocking is based on factor analysis for the returns. Finally we discuss if multivariate volatility timing strategies are successful for beating the benchmark index (the MSCI Europe index). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatio‐temporal modelling of corrosion in an industrial furnace
Authors: Little John , Goldstein Michael , Jonathan Philip , den Heijer Kees
Published: August 2004

Optimal inspection and maintenance of complex systems in modern industry is important for safety and economic reasons. With appropriate statistical modelling, the utilization of inspection resources and quality of inferences can be greatly improved. Modelling and inspection of a full‐scale industrial furnace subject to corrosion will be considered. A suitable Bayesian spatio‐temporal dynamic linear model is developed for wall thickness, by eliciting the beliefs of experts and incorporating other relevant data for related systems. The model may be used to derive efficient inspection schedules for corrosion detection and we demonstrate the considerable reduction in the inspection burden which the model allows. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of multivariate methods for robust parameter design in sheet metal spinning
Authors: Auer Corinna , Erdbrügge Martina , Göbel Roland
Published: August 2004

Sheet metal spinning is a very complex forming process with a large number of quality characteristics. Within the scope of a joint project of the Department of Statistics and the Chair of Forming Technology the impact of process parameters (design factors) on important quality characteristics has been investigated both theoretically and experimentally. In the past, every response has been treated individually and uncontrollable disturbances (noise factors) have been neglected. Now this approach has been extended to robust multiresponse parameter design. For this, a review of common multivariate approaches for robust parameter design has been carried out, which also leads to the proposal of some new variants. In addition to the theoretical comparison, the methods were applied to data gained in the sheet metal spinning process. The obtained results were evaluated in terms of applicability, limitations and quality accuracy. Practical experiments confirmed the high degree of efficiency that the finally proposed method based on desirabilities promises. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A model‐based approach to quality control of paper production
Authors: Brown Patrick E. , Diggle Peter J. , Henderson Robin
Published: August 2004

This paper uses estimated model parameters as inputs into multivariate quality control charts. The thickness of paper leaving a paper mill is measured at a high sampling rate, and these data are grouped into successive data segments. A stochastic model for paper is fitted to each data segment, leading to parameter estimates and information‐based standard errors for these estimates. The estimated model parameters vary by more than one can be explained by the information‐based standard errors, suggesting that the ‘true’ underlying parameters are not constant over time. A model is formulated for the true parameters in which the information matrix dictates the distribution for the observed parameters given the true parameters. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bivariate non‐parametric regression models: simulations and applications
Authors: Durio Alessandra , Isaia Ennio Davide
Published: August 2004

This paper presents a practical procedure for performing non‐parametric bivariate regression analysis. The procedure applies the Nadaraya–Watson local linear kernel estimator with associated bootstrap variability bands whenever the pseudo‐likelihood ratio test rejects the linear regression model hypothesis. Two case studies and simulations are used to demonstrate the proposed technique. Calculations have been performed using the shareware R software. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plant sensitivity to low intensity 105 GHz electromagnetic radiation
Authors: Tafforeau Marc , Verdus Marie‐Claire , Norris Vic , White Glenn J. , Cole Mike , Demarty Maurice , Thellier Michel , Ripoll Camille
Published: August 2004

Exposing seedlings of the flax, Linum usitatissimum L., to a variety of weak environmental stresses followed by a 2 day calcium deprivation, triggers the common response of production of epidermal meristems (actively dividing groups of cells) in the hypocotyl, which is the part of the stem between the root and the cotyledons (the pre‐existing leaves in the embryo). This production reaches a plateau of 10–20 meristems after a month in the case of mechanical stimulation and cold shock. Recently, we have shown that radiation from a global system for mobile communication (GSM) telephone also triggers production of meristems with a plateau of around six meristems. Here, we show that a single 2 h exposure to radiation emitted at 105 GHz at non‐thermal levels by a Gunn oscillator induces meristem production with kinetics similar to that induced by weak environmental stimuli and radiation from GSM telephone. Bioelectromagnetics 25:403–407, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Generic UMTS test signal for RF bioelectromagnetic studies
Authors: Mbonjo Mbonjo H. Ndoumbè , Streckert J. , Bitz A. , Hansen V. , Glasmachers A. , Gencol S. , Rozic D.
Published: August 2004

This report outlines the characteristics of universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) signals and discusses the signal parameters with respect to their possible biological relevance in order to define a generic UMTS test signal (GUS) for experiments aiming at the investigation of biological effects of weak electromagnetic fields. The GUS includes features of a real UMTS signal and especially the characteristics of UMTS, which differ from those of already applied second generation mobile communication systems (GSM 900, DCS1800, PCS1900, IS‐95). It has been specified on the basis of the recommendations of a working group of the German Forschungsgemeinschaft Funk (FGF) with a focus on the mechanisms of UMTS which are responsible for slow term signal contributions, i.e., low frequency variations of the radio frequency (RF) envelope, since the hypothetical possibility of biological relevance of weak electromagnetic fields is often attributed to time variations of the RF envelope with frequencies close to those of natural processes. In this respect, it is also shown that the mandatory power control loop in UMTS gives rise to very strong 1.5 kHz variations on the air interface. Based upon the concept of the GUS, a UMTS test signal generator (GUS6960S) is described. Bioelectromagnetics 25:415–425, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of local geomagnetic storms on arterial blood pressure
Authors: Dimitrova S. , Stoilova I. , Cholakov I.
Published: August 2004

This study attempts to assess the influence of local geomagnetic storms at middle latitudes on some human physiological parameters. The blood pressure (bp), heart rate and general well‐being of 86 volunteers were measured, the latter by means of a standardised questionnaire, on work days in autumn, 2001 (1 Oct to 9 Nov), and in spring, 2002 (8 April to 28 May). These timespans were chosen as periods of maximal expected geomagnetic activity (GMA). Altogether, 2799 recordings were obtained and analysed. A four factor analysis of variance (MANOVA) was employed to check the significance of the influence of four factors (local GMA level; sequence of the days of measurements covering up to 3 days before and after geomagnetic storms; sex and the presence of medication) on the physiological parameters under consideration. Post hoc analysis was performed to elicit the significance of differences in the factors' levels. Arterial bp was found to increase with the increase of the GMA level, and systolic and diastolic bp were found to increase significantly from the day before till the second day after the geomagnetic storm. These effects were present irrespective of sex and medication. Bioelectromagnetics 25:408–414, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in human EEG caused by low level modulated microwave stimulation
Authors: Hinrikus Hiie , Parts Maie , Lass Jaanus , Tuulik Viiu
Published: August 2004

This study focuses on the effect of low level microwave radiation on human EEG alpha and theta rhythms. During the experiment, 20 healthy volunteers were exposed to a 450 MHz microwaves with 7 Hz on–off modulation. The field power density at the scalp was 0.16 mW/cm2. Signals from the following EEG channels were used: FP1, FP2, P3, P4, T3, T4, O1, and O2. The experimental protocol consisted of one cycle of short term photic and ten cycles of the repetitive microwave stimulation. The changes caused by photic as well as microwave stimulation were more regular on the alpha rhythm. In the majority of cases, photic stimulation caused changes in the EEG energy level in the occipital and microwave stimulation in the frontal region. Our experimental results demonstrated that microwave stimulation effects became apparent, starting from the third stimulation cycle. Changes varied strongly from subject to subject. Therefore, photic and microwave exposure did not cause statistically significant changes in the EEG activity level for the whole group. For some subjects, clear tendencies of changes in microwave on–off cycles were noticeable. Bioelectromagnetics 25:431–440, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alternating extremely low frequency magnetic field increases turnover of dopamine and serotonin in rat frontal cortex
Authors: Sieroń Aleksander , Labus Łukasz , Nowak Przemysław , Cieślar Grzegorz , Brus Halina , Durczok Artur , Zagził Tomasz , Kostrzewa Richard M. , Brus Ryszard
Published: August 2004

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of an extremely low frequency sinusoidal magnetic field (ELF MF) with frequency of 10 Hz and intensity of 1.8–3.8 mT on the levels of the biogenic amines dopamine (DA), 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA), 3‐methoxytyramine (3‐MT), 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT), 5‐hydroxyindolacetic acid (5‐HIAA), and noradrenaline (NA), as well as on DA and 5‐HT turnover in corpus striatum and frontal cortex of adult male Wistar rats. We found that ELF MF exposure for 14 days, 1 h daily, did not influence the level of the examined biogenic amines and metabolites, but increased the rate of synthesis (turnover) of DA and 5‐HT in rat frontal cortex as compared to control, sham exposed rats. On the basis of the present results and our previous findings, extremely low frequency magnetic field (ELF MF) exposure has been found to alter both turnover and receptor reactivity of monoaminergic systems, as well as some behaviors induced by these systems or their agonists and antagonists. Bioelectromagnetics 25:426–430, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
RF absorption involving biological macromolecules
Authors: Prohofsky E.W.
Published: August 2004

The fundamental intramolecular frequency of a globular protein can be obtained from the measurements of acoustic velocities of bulk protein matter. This lowest frequency for common size molecules is shown to be above several hundred GHz. All modes below this frequency would then be intermolecular modes or bulk modes of the molecule and surrounding matter or tissue. The lowest frequency modes of an extended DNA double helix are also shown to be bulk modes because of interaction with water. Only DNA modes, whose frequency is well above 4 GHz, can be intrahelical modes, that is, confined to the helix rather than in the helix plus surroundings. Near 4 GHz, they are heavily damped and, therefore, not able to resonantly absorb. Modes that absorb radio frequency (RF) below this frequency are bulk modes of the supporting matter. Bulk modes rapidly thermalize all absorbed energy. The implication of these findings for the possibility of athermal RF effects is considered. The applicability of these findings for other biological molecules is discussed. Bioelectromagnetics 25:441–451, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
902 MHz mobile phone does not affect short term memory in humans
Authors: Haarala Christian , Ek Maria , Björnberg Linda , Laine Matti , Revonsuo Antti , Koivisto Mika , Hämäläinen Heikki
Published: August 2004

We studied the effects of an electromagnetic field (EMF) as emitted by a 902 MHz mobile phone on human short term memory. This study was a replication with methodological improvements to our previous study. The improvements included multi‐centre testing and a double blind design. A total of 64 subjects (32 men) in two independent laboratories performed a short term memory task (n‐back) which poses a varying memory load (0–3 items) on the subjects' memory. They performed the task twice, once each under EMF and sham exposure. Reaction times (RTs) and accuracy of the responses were recorded. The order of exposure and memory load conditions were counterbalanced across subjects and gender. There were no statistically significant differences in performance between the two laboratories. We could not replicate our previous results: the EMF had no effect on RTs or on the accuracy of the subjects' answers. The inability to replicate previous findings could have been caused by lack of actual EMF effects or the magnitude of effects being at the sensitivity threshold of the test used. Bioelectromagnetics 25:452–456, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of pulse‐burst electromagnetic field stimulation on osteoblast cell activities
Authors: Chang Walter Hong‐Shong , Chen Li‐Ting , Sun Jui‐Sheng , Lin Feng‐Huei
Published: August 2004

Electric stimulation has been used successfully to treat a wide range of bone disorders. However, the mechanism by which the electric fields can influence the bone cells behavior remains poorly understood. The purpose of this research was to assess the possible mechanism of the stimulatory effect of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) on bone cells. A PEMF with a frequency of 15 Hz (1 G [0.1 mT]; electric field strength 2 mV/cm) were applied to neonatal mouse calvarial bone cell cultures for 14 days. The temporal effects of PEMF on the osteoblasts were evaluated by the status of proliferation, differentiation, mineralization, and gene expression on the 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 14th days of culture. Our results demonstrated that PEMF stimulation significantly increased the osteoblasts' proliferation by 34.0, 11.5, and 13.3% over the control group after 3, 5, and 7 days' culture. Although the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and the mineralization nodules formation did not change, the ALP activity of the bone cells decreased significantly after PEMF stimulation. Under the PEMF stimulation, there was no effect on the extracellular matrix synthesis, while the osteoprotegerin (OPG) mRNA expression was up regulated and the receptor activator of NF‐κB ligand (RANKL) mRNA expression were down regulated, compared to the control. In conclusion, the treatment by PEMF of osteoblasts may accelerate cellular proliferation, but did not affect the cellular differentiation. The effect of PEMF stimulation on the bone tissue formation was most likely associated with the increase in the number of cells, but not with the enhancement of the osteoblasts' differentiation. Bioelectromagnetics 25:457–465, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Millimeter wave‐induced suppression of B16 F10 melanoma growth in mice: Involvement of endogenous opioids
Authors: Radzievsky A.A. , Gordiienko O.V. , Szabo I. , Alekseev S.I. , Ziskin M.C.
Published: August 2004

Millimeter wave treatment (MMWT) is widely used in Eastern European countries, but is virtually unknown in Western medicine. Among reported MMWT effects is suppression of tumor growth. The main aim of the present “blind” and dosimetrically controlled experiments was to evaluate quantitatively the ability of MMWT to influence tumor growth and to assess whether endogenous opioids are involved. The murine experimental model of B16 F10 melanoma subcutaneous growth was used. MMWT characteristics were: frequency, 61.22 GHz; average incident power density, 13.3 × 10−3 W/cm2; single exposure duration, 15 min; and exposure area, nose. Naloxone (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneally, 30 min prior to MMWT) was used as a nonspecific blocker of opioid receptors. Five daily MMW exposures, if applied starting at the fifth day following B16 melanoma cell injection, suppressed subcutaneous tumor growth. Pretreatment with naloxone completely abolished the MMWT‐induced suppression of melanoma growth. The same course of 5 MMW treatments, if started on day 1 or day 10 following tumor inoculations, was ineffective. We concluded that MMWT has an anticancer therapeutic potential and that endogenous opioids are involved in MMWT‐induced suppression of melanoma growth in mice. However, appropriate indications and contraindications have to be developed experimentally before recommending MMWT for clinical usage. Bioelectromagnetics 25:466–473, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of 50 Hz magnetic field on human heart rate variablilty: Linear and nonlinear analysis
Authors: Tabor Zbisław , Michalski Józef , Rokita Eugeniusz
Published: August 2004

This study investigated the problem of the influence of 50 Hz magnetic field (MF) on human heart rate variability (HRV). The exposure system was a commercial device for magnetotherapy, generating field of the strength of 500 μT at the center of the coil, 150–200 μT at the position of human subjects' heart and 20–30 μT at the position of subjects' head. The exposure protocols, applied randomly, were either “half hour MF‐off/half hour MF‐on” or “half hour MF‐off/half hour MF‐off.” The phonocardiographic (PhCG) signal of 15 volunteers were obtained during exposure and used for calculation of time‐domain HRV parameters (mean time between heart beats (N‐N), standard deviation of time between heart beats (SDNN), and the number of differences of successive beat‐to‐beat intervals greater than 50 ms, divided by the total number of beat‐to‐beat intervals (pNN50)) and nonlinear HRV measures (approximate entropy (ApEn), detrended fluctuation scaling exponents). The protocol MF‐off/MF‐on was applied in nine subjects. Repeated measures ANOVA (RMANOVA) performed for Mf‐off/MF‐off protocol indicated no statistical difference among four 15 min intervals of HRV data (P value >20% for all parameters except for N‐N, where P = 3.7%). RMANOVA followed by the post hoc Tukey test performed for Mf‐off/MF‐on protocol indicated a statistically significant difference during MF on for N‐N (8% increase, P < .1%), SDNN (40% increase, P = 1.1%), and pNN50 (110% increase, P < .1%). The results of the analysis indicate that the changes of these parameters could be associated with the influence of MF. Bioelectromagnetics 25:474–480, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemiluminescence of cobalt(II)‐catalysed auto‐oxidation of sulphite and its application to cobalt analysis
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Feng , Li Hua
Published: August 2004

The oxidation of sulphite by dissolved oxygen in aqueous solution catalysed by cobalt(II) was investigated. A weak chemiluminescence (CL) emission was observed when the reaction took place in a strong alkaline solution without any special CL reagent. Further studies showed that in the presence of ﬂuorescein sodium the CL signal was enhanced signiﬁcantly. The CL emission is linear with Co(II) concentration in the range 0.6–80 nmol/L and the detection limit is 0.3 nmol/L. In addition to Co(II), other transition metal ions were also tested, and the results showed that the proposed system was highly selective for Co(II). The method was successfully applied to the determination of Co(II) in pharmaceutical preparations. The possible CL mechanism was also discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intra-abdominal hypertension and the abdominal compartment syndrome
Authors: Moore A F K , Hargest R , Martin M , Delicata R J
Published: August 2004

Background

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) occurs when intra-abdominal pressure is abnormally high in association with organ dysfunction. It tends to have a poor outcome, even when treated promptly by abdominal decompression.

Methods

A search of the Medline database was performed to identify articles related to intra-abdominal hypertension and ACS.

Results

Currently there is no agreed definition or management of ACS. However, it is suggested that intra-abdominal pressure should be measured in patients at risk, with values above 20 mmHg being considered abnormal in most. Abdominal decompression should be considered in patients with rising pressure and organ dysfunction, indicated by increased airway pressure, reduced cardiac output and oliguria. Organ dysfunction often occurs at an intra-abdominal pressure greater than 35 mmHg and may start to develop between 26 and 35 mmHg. The mean survival rate of patients affected by compartment syndrome is 53 per cent.

Conclusion

The optimal time for intervention is not known, but outcome is often poor, even after decompression. Most of the available information relates to victims of trauma rather than general surgical patients.
Germline RET V804M mutation associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A
Authors: Gibelin H , Bezieau S , Misso C , Bouin-Pineau M-H , Maréchaud R , Kraimps J-L
Published: August 2004

Rare mutation