bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Role of the polypeptide backbone and post-translational modifications in cross-reactivity of Art v 1, the major mugwort pollen allergen
Authors: Gruber Petra , Gadermaier Gabriele , Bauer Roman , Weiss Richard , Wagner Stefan , Leonard Renaud , Breiteneder Heimo , Ebner Christof , Ferreira Fatima , Egger Matthias 
Published: April 2009

Abstract

Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort) is one of the main causes of late summer pollinosis in Europe, with >95% of patients sensitized to the glycoallergen Art v 1. Despite the importance of this allergen, little is known about its cross-reactive behavior. Here we investigated the occurrence of conserved Art v 1 antigenic determinants in sources known to display clinically relevant cross-reactivity with mugwort pollen. For this purpose, monoclonal antibodies specific for a cysteine-stabilized epitope of the Art v 1 defensin domain and for carbohydrates attached to the proline domain were produced by hybridoma and phage display technologies. Using polyclonal Art v 1-specific rabbit sera and antibodies against both the Art v 1 carbohydrate and polypeptide moieties, we could identify cross-reactive structures in pollen from botanically related Asteraceae weeds (Artemisia absinthium, Helianthus annuus and Ambrosia sp.). Homologous allergens were also recognized by IgE from mugwort-sensitized patients and the reactivity could be decreased by serum pre-incubation with natural and recombinant Art v 1. As no cross-reactive structures could be found in foods associated with mugwort pollinosis, we conclude that Art v 1 is poorly involved in mugwort cross-reactivity to food allergens.
Effects of Various Long-Term Aging Procedures on the Rheological Properties of Laboratory Prepared Rubberized Asphalt Binders
Authors: Xiao Feipeng , Amirkhanian Serji N. , Shen Junan 
Published: April 2009

Abstract
Rubberized asphalt has been used to improve the mechanical characteristics (e.g., rutting resistance, fatigue life, friction, and skid resistance) of hot mix asphalt mixtures. The objective of this research was to investigate the rheological characteristics of the rubberized asphalt binders after various long-term aging procedures, using the penetration index, the dynamic shear rheometer, the bending beam rheometer, and high pressure-gel permeation chromatographic testing. The experimental design included the use of three binder sources, three binder grades (PG 64-22, PG 64-22+10 %-40 ambient rubber, and PG 76-22) and three aging states, i.e., virgin, rolling thin film oven, and pressurized aged vessel [four test temperatures (65, 80, 100, and 110°C) and five aging durations (15, 20, 40, 80, and 144 h) under the pressure of 2070 kPa]. The test results show that, as expected, the use of crumb rubber can effectively improve the PG grade and aging resistance of the virgin asphalt binder. A series of rheological properties (e.g., penetration, stiffness, m-value, and percentages of large and small molecular sizes) illustrate that the PG 64-22 binder, mixed with 10 %-40 ambient rubber, yields similar or improved rheological properties in comparison with PG 76-22 using 3 % styrene-butadiene-styrene polymer after various long-term aging procedures.
Recovery of persistent hypogonadism by clomiphene in males with prolactinomas under dopamine agonist treatment
Authors: Ribeiro Rogerio Silicani , Abucham Julio 
Published: April 2009

ContextPersistence of hypogonadism is common in male patients with prolactinomas under dopamine agonist (DA) treatment. Conventional therapy with testosterone causes undesirable fluctuations in serum testosterone levels and inhibition of spermatogenesis.ObjectiveTo evaluate the use of clomiphene as a treatment for persistent hypogonadism in males with prolactinomas.DesignOpen label, single-arm, prospective trial.PatientsFourteen adult hypogonadal males (testosterone <300 ng/dl and low/normal LH) with prolactinomas on DA, including seven with high prolactin (range: 29–1255 μg/l; median: 101 μg/l) despite maximal doses of DA.InterventionClomiphene (50 mg/day orally) for 12 weeks.MeasuresTestosterone, estradiol, LH, FSH, and prolactin were measured before and 10 days, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after clomiphene. Erectile function, sperm analysis, body composition, and metabolic profiles were evaluated before and after clomiphene.ResultsTen patients (71%), five hyperprolactinemic and two normoprolactinemic, responded to clomiphene (testosterone >300 ng/dl). Testosterone levels increased from 201±22 to 457±37 ng/dl, 436±52, and 440±47 ng/dl at 4, 8, and 12 weeks respectively (0.001<P<0.01). Estradiol increased significantly and peaked at 12 weeks. LH increased from 1.7±0.4 to 6.2±2.0 IU/l, 4.5±0.7, and 4.6±0.7 IU/l at 4, 8, and 12 weeks respectively (0.001<P<0.05). FSH levels increased in a similar fashion. Prolactin levels remained unchanged. Erectile function improved (P<0.05) and sperm motility increased (P<0.05) in all six patients with asthenospermia before clomiphene.ConclusionsClomiphene restores normal testosterone levels and improves sperm motility in most male patients with prolactinomas and persistent hypogonadism under DA therapy. Recovery of gonadal function by clomiphene is independent of prolactin levels.
Handling nonnormality and variance heterogeneity for quantitative sublethal toxicity tests
Authors: Ritz Christian , Vliet Leana Vander 
Published: April 2009

AbstractThe advantages of using regression-based techniques to derive endpoints from environmental toxicity data are clear, and slowly, this superior analytical technique is gaining acceptance. As use of regression-based analysis becomes more widespread, some of the associated nuances and potential problems come into sharper focus. Looking at data sets that cover a broad spectrum of standard test species, we noticed that some model fits to data failed to meet two key assumptions—variance homogeneity and normality—that are necessary for correct statistical analysis via regression-based techniques. Failure to meet these assumptions often is caused by reduced variance at the concentrations showing severe adverse effects. Although commonly used with linear regression analysis, transformation of the response variable only is not appropriate when fitting data using nonlinear regression techniques. Through analysis of sample data sets, including Lemna minor, Eisenia andrei (terrestrial earthworm), and algae, we show that both the so-called Box-Cox transformation and use of the Poisson distribution can help to correct variance heterogeneity and nonnormality and so allow nonlinear regression analysis to be implemented. Both the Box-Cox transformation and the Poisson distribution can be readily implemented into existing protocols for statistical analysis. By correcting for nonnormality and variance heterogeneity, these two statistical tools can be used to encourage the transition to regression-based analysis and the depreciation of less-desirable and less-flexible analytical techniques, such as linear interpolation.
Gene expression profiling in atlantic cod (Gadus Morhua L.) from two contaminated sites using a custom-made cDNA microarray
Authors: Lie Kai K. , Lanzen Anders , Breilid Harald , Olsvik Pål A. 
Published: April 2009

Abstract
A small-scale, custom-made cDNA microarray, the CodStress array, consisting of 746 expressed sequence tag clones encoding stress-responsive and immune-relevant proteins was constructed to investigate the effects of contaminants on gene expression in two natural populations of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) from western Norway. Farmed Atlantic cod as well as cod from an unpolluted reference site were included in the present study to examine the individual variation and differences in gene expression between natural populations of cod and farmed cod. Liver of cod sampled from two contaminated sites (Store Lungegardsvann, Bergen, Norway, and S0rfjorden, Odda, Norway), from one unpolluted reference site (0ystese/Jondal, Norway), and farmed cod were analyzed by microarray. Few differences in transcriptional levels were detected between cod from the two polluted sites and the unpolluted reference site. Cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A) and sulfotransferase 1(SULT1), two biotransformation genes, were up-regulated in males but not in females from Store Lungegardsvann compared to the reference site. Genes related to metal-induced stress, such as heme oxygenase, ferritin, and metallothionein, were up-regulated in female cod from S0rfjorden compared to female cod from the reference site. Although many of the same contaminants are reported from both S0rfjorden and Store Lungegardsvann, the distinction in gene expression profile between cod from these locations reflected the composition of environmental contaminants at each site. As expected, farmed fish displayed less variation in gene expression compared to the wild fish. Pearson correlation divided the farmed cod and natural cod into two principal clusters.
Material Hardship and the Physical Health of School-Aged Children in Low-Income Households
Authors: Yoo Joan P. , Slack Kristen S. , Holl Jane L. 
Published: April 2009

Objectives. We examined the relationship between material hardship reported by low-income caregivers and caregivers’ assessments of their children's overall health. Methods. We used logistic regression techniques to analyze data from 1073 children aged 5 through 11 years whose caregivers participated in multiple waves of the Illinois Families Study. Results. Caregivers’ reports of food hardship were strongly associated with their assessments of their children's health. Other sources of self-reported material hardship were also associated with caregivers’ assessments of their children's health, but the effects disappeared when we controlled for caregiver physical health status and mental health status. Proximal measures of material hardship better explained low-income children's health than traditional socioeconomic measures. There were no statistically significant cumulative effects of material hardships above and beyond individual hardship effects. Conclusions. Our findings highlight the importance of developing and supporting programs and policies that ensure access to better-quality food, higher quantities of food, and better living conditions for low-income children, as well as health promotion and prevention efforts targeted toward their primary caregivers as ways to reduce health disparities for this population.
Identification and Evaluation of High-Performance EOR Surfactants
Authors: Levitt David B. , Jackson Adam C. , Heinson Christopher , Britton Larry N. , Malik Taimur , Dwarakanath Varadarajan , Pope Gary A. 
Published: April 2009

Summary
We report results for a number of promising enhanced-oil-recovery (EOR) surfactants based upon a fast, low-cost laboratory screening process that is highly effective in selecting the best surfactants to use with different crude oils. Initial selection of surfactants is based upon desirable surfactant structure. Phase-behavior screening helps to quickly identify favorable surfactant formulations. Salinity scans are conducted to observe equilibration times, microemulsion viscosity, oil- and water-solubilization ratios, and interfacial tension (IFT). Cosurfactants and cosolvents are included to minimize gels, liquid crystals, and macroemulsions and to promote rapid equilibration to low-viscosity micro-emulsions. Branched alcohol propoxy sulfates (APS), internal olefin sulfonates, and branched alpha olefin sulfonates (AOS) have been identified as good EOR surfactants using this screening process. These surfactants are available at a low cost and are compatible with both polymers and alkali, such as sodium carbonate and, thus, are good candidates for both surfactant-polymer and alkali-surfactant-polymer EOR processes. One of the best formulations was tested in both sandstone and dolomite cores and found to give excellent oil recovery and low surfactant retention with a west Texas (WT) crude oil.
Experimental Determination of Relative Permeabilities for a Rich Gas/Condensate System Using Live Fluid
Authors: App J. F. , Burger J. E. 
Published: April 2009

Summary
Measurement of gas and condensate relative permeabilities typically is performed through steady-state linear coreflood experiments using model fluids. This study addresses experimental measurement of relative permeabilities for a rich gas/condensate reservoir using a live, single-phase reservoir fluid. Using a live, single-phase reservoir fluid eliminates the difficulties in designing a relatively simple model fluid that replicates the complicated thermodynamic and transport properties of a near-critical fluid. Two-phase-flow tests were performed across a range of pressures and flow rates to simulate reservoir conditions from initial production through depletion. A single-phase multirate experiment was also performed to assess inertial, or non-Darcy, effects. Correlations were developed to represent both the gas and condensate relative permeabilities as a function of capillary number. A nearly 20-fold increase in gas relative permeability was observed from the low- to high-capillary-number flow regime. Compositional simulations were performed to assess the impact of the experimental results for vertical- and horizontal-well geometries.
Novel Composite Adsorbents Preparation through In Situ Coating and Embedded Regeneration for the Simultaneous Removal of As(III) and As(V) from Drinking Water
Authors: Ruiping Liu , Fangfang Chang , Huijuan Liu , Gaosheng Zhang 
Published: April 2009

This study investigated the effectiveness and mechanisms of a novel composite adsorbent, prepared through in situ coating and regenerated through in situ embedding with Fe-Mn binary oxides onto porous diatomite (FMBO-DE), for the simultaneous removal of As(III) and As(V) from drinking water.
FMBO-DE was prepared in situ by interactions between equivalent amount of KMnO4 and FeSO4 (3:1) with suspended porous diatomite. Zeta potential analysis showed the zero point of charge was pH 7.0, slightly higher than Fe-Mn binary oxides (pH 6.1). No X-ray diffraction peaks were observed, confirming that FMBO-DE was amorphous; SEM/EDX analysis showed the surface elemental ratio of Fe to Mn was 3:1, indicating that ferric and manganese oxides were evenly homogeneous in Fe-Mn binary oxides.
Kinetics studies showed As was quickly removed by FMBO, up to 80% of equilibrium capacity within initial 60 minutes. Additionally, it exhibited strong potential for removing both As(III) and As(V), with maximum adsorption capacities as high as 350 mgAs(III) /g FMBO and 200 mgAs(V)/g FMBO, respectively. It was noteworthy that FMBO showed higher potential of removing As(III) than As(V).
Continuous column tests demonstrated significant removal of both As(III) and As(V). At an initial As concentration of 100µg L-1 and empty bed contact time of 5 min, freshly prepared FMBO-DE could treat 3000 bed volume (BV) of As(III) and 2000 BV of As(V) and the effluent As concentration was consistently below 10 μg L-1. The in situ embedded regeneration processes obviously increased the capability of removing As from water. After three regenerations, the adsorbing potential was as high as 4500 BV of As(III) and 3100 BV of As(V), respectively.
Recent Advances in Membrane Bioreactors
Authors: Watanabe Yoshimasa , Kimura Katsuki 
Published: April 2009

This paper describes the current situation and technological progress on the MBR .The first part deals with the future trends of world water use and need of water recycling. Based on the White Paper published by the AMEDIUS project, MBR has a great potential as a key technology for the water recycling.
The second part deals with the recent research results of the authors on the membrane fouling. The following conclusions were derived from the pilot plant study:
1). The PE membrane fouled more rapidly than did the PVDF membrane,
2). Composition of the physically irreversible foulants differed considerably depending on the membrane polymer material,
The third part deals with a newly developed MBR for the nitrogen removal. In the MBR, simultaneous nitrification/denitrification in a single bioreactor is possible by inserting baffles into a normal MBR and controlling the water level to produce the anoxic condition.
Biosolids Drying: Solving Municipal Regulation and Cost Problems
Authors: Igoe John , Bina Enzo , Pan Mauro Dal 
Published: April 2009

Municipalities around the world are challenged with growing populations, changing regulations and rising costs. Heat drying technologies have been used for many years to reduce biosolids volumes, and recently, there have been developments in the drying industry surrounding safety, air quality, beneficial reuse and heat recovery (Igoe, 2002).
There are two main categories of drying technologies: convective (or direct) and contact (or indirect). In this paper, the direct Convective Thermal Dryer (CTD) system and indirect Ecoflash® Thin Layer Dryer are discussed and illustrated through municipal examples.
The projects discussed in this paper are:The City of Corona, California, USA, which uses a Convective Thermal Dryer (CTD) system to reduce volume and disposal costs of biological biosolids generated at the city's two wastewater treatment plants. The project is unique because the CTD system uses waste heat from the City's power plant to promote the production of beneficial reuse, Class A biosolids.The Dundalk drying plant in Ireland, which is the first plant designed and built by Siemens Water Technologies to be in full compliance with the European ATEX (Atmosphere Explosible) Safety Regulation Directive 94/9/EC.Disposal of dewatered sludge quickly becomes a big problem for Cagliari, a city on Sardinia Island in Italy, whose economy is based on tourism. They use the Ecoflash® dryer to reduce biosolids hauling and disposal costs.
WHO Guidance for Health and Environmental Aspects of Desalination, including Chemical Challenges and Nutrient Minerals
Authors: Cotruvo Joseph A. 
Published: April 2009

The World Health Organization, through its Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office (EMRO) has developed guidance on health and environmental aspects of desalinated water production, distribution and water quality. The purpose was to generate a level of consistency in the approach to developing desalination projects, so as to facilitate the introduction of desalination benefits, and avoid unnecessary ad hoc judgments.
In addition to salts, desalination applications must deal with raw water contamination by oil, inorganic and synthetic organic chemicals, microbial contaminants, scale management, membrane leakage, and chemical and biofouling. Stabilization of the finished water to avoid corrosion is a key element. Environmental impacts are possible with any large construction project and desalination projects may also involve coastal zone issues, energy consumption and efficiencies from cogeneration, and disposal of concentrates at sea or on land. Quality of finished water must be maintained during transit to consumers sometimes over long distances and warm temperatures. These goals should consider positive public health consequences, as well as preventing adverse effects.
Several inorganic ions i.e., bromide, borates and bromate, are of particular interest because the first two are not completely removed by membranes, and the third can be present in finished water in large quantities depending upon the treatment processes being employed.
Desalinated water can be considered to be “synthesized” water and, as such, its final composition can be tailored to any specific purpose within technological and financial constraints. Components such as TDS, calcium and magnesium mineralization, fluoride and possibly others can be chosen to reflect possible benefits to the consuming population, as well as to assure corrosion stability.
This new Guidance will also be a component of the 4th edition of the WHO Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality scheduled for 2009. It is expected to have worldwide impact, due to the already extensive and rapidly growing use of desalination. It should contribute to the improvement of the public health and quality of life and to economic growth. The final Guidance will be published in English and Arabic with a translation provided by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences. The draft is available at http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/gdwqrevision/desalination/en/index.html
Strategic Planning of Urban Water Systems
Authors: Malmqvist Per-Arne 
Published: April 2009

The planning of future sustainable water and wastewater system is not a trivial task. It involves all relevant aspects of sustainability such as defined by the Urban Water conceptual framework: health, environment (including use of resources), economy, socio-cultural aspects, and technical function. The Urban Water programme has developed a set of tools for the assessment of the aspects involved. Substance flow simulation models such as URWARE and SEWSYS deliver quantified data on emissions to air, water and land, and the use of energy. Data is interpreted by LCA methodologies, quantifying e.g. eutrophication, acidification, discharge of green-house gases etc.
All information, whether quantitative or qualitative, whether delivered by professionals or laymen, are used in an iterative decision-making process, such as the SCA method (Strategic Choice Approach). The multi-criteria assessment involves a weighting mode and can be made using graphic computer programs or numerically.
The SCA approach and the Urban Water tools have been used for assessing the future sustainable system for handling wastewater and biowaste in Göteborg, Sweden. Among the results were that it was not found to be sustainable to abandon the existing principles and exchange the existing system for source separation systems. Systems that extract pure phosphorus (and nitrogen) fractions at the treatment plant, and systems that aim at producing a very clean sludge by reducing the pollutant sources in the city, got high scores in the assessment.
Essential Elements in the Development of Sustainable Water Services
Authors: Rouse Michael J. 
Published: April 2009

The world has changed and reform of the water sector is necessary to meet the growing challenges. It is argued that sustainable water services are unobtainable without consideration of the following elements: separation of delivery of services from the policy function; viable scale of operations; integrated planning; finance and cost recovery to avoid general subsidies; a change from general subsidies to those targeted on the poor; transparency and public participation and some form of independent scrutiny with above all effective leadership and management.
The public-private argument is unproductive and energies should be focussed on the fundamental reforms. Suppliers to utilities can be most effective working in partnership to achieve win-win situations.
The Effect of Price on Pharmaceutical R&D
Authors: Civan Abdulkadir , Maloney Michael T. 
Published: April 2009

Abstract
This work extends prior research that finds drug development is driven by demand factors such as mortality rates of the diseases new drugs are aimed at. Here we find that the number of drugs in the development pipeline is strongly positively related to the price of existing drugs treating those diseases. This gives us a direct price elasticity measure from which we can draw some inference about the effect on new drug development that might occur if the pricing regime in the United States were to change.