bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analyzing Monthly Extreme Sea Levels with a Time-Dependent GEV Model
Authors: Méndez Fernando J. , Menéndez Melisa , Luceño Alberto , Losada Inigo J. 
Published: May 2007

AbstractA statistical model to analyze different time scales of the variability of extreme high sea levels is presented. This model uses a time-dependent generalized extreme value (GEV) distribution to fit monthly maxima series and is applied to a large historical tidal gauge record (San Francisco, California). The model allows the identification and estimation of the effects of several time scales—such as seasonality, interdecadal variability, and secular trends—in the location, scale, and shape parameters of the probability distribution of extreme sea levels. The inclusion of seasonal effects explains a large amount of data variability, thereby allowing a more efficient estimation of the processes involved. Significant correlation with the Southern Oscillation index and the nodal cycle, as well as an increase of about 20% for the secular variability of the scale parameter have been detected for the particular dataset analyzed. Results show that the model is adequate for a complete analysis of seasonal-to-interannual sea level extremes providing time-dependent quantiles and confidence intervals.
Examination of the μ–Λ Relation Suggested for Drop Size Distribution Parameters
Authors: Moisseev Dmitri N. , Chandrasekar V. 
Published: May 2007

Abstract
Raindrop size distributions are often assumed to follow a three-parameter gamma distribution. Since rain intensity retrieval from radar observations is an underdetermined problem, there is great interest in finding physical correlations between the parameters of the gamma distribution. One of the more common approaches is to measure naturally occurring drop size distributions (DSDs) using a disdrometer and to find DSD parameters by fitting a gamma distribution to these observations. Often the method of moments is used to retrieve the parameters of a gamma distribution from disdrometer observations.
In this work the effect of the method of moments and data filtering on the relation between the parameters of the DSD is investigated, namely, the shape μ and the slope Λ parameters. For this study the disdrometer observations were simulated. In these simulations the gamma distribution parameters Nw, D0, and μ were randomly selected from a wide range of values that are found in rainfall. Then, using simulated disdrometer measurements, DSD parameters were estimated using the method of moments. It is shown that the statistical errors associated with data filtering of disdrometer measurements might produce a spurious relation between μ and Λ parameters. It is also shown that three independent disdrometer measurements can be used to verify the existence of such a relation.
The interaction of PP1 with BRCA1 and analysis of their expression in breast tumors
Authors: Winter Sherry L , Bosnoyan-Collins Lucine , Pinnaduwage Dushanthi , Andrulis Irene L 
Published: May 2007

AbstractBackgroundThe breast cancer susceptibility gene,BRCA1, is implicated in multiple cellular processes including DNA repair, the transactivation of genes, and the ubiquitination of proteins; however its precise functions remain to be fully understood. Identification and characterization of BRCA1 protein interactions may help to further elucidate the function and regulation of BRCA1. Additionally, detection of changes in the expression levels ofBRCA1and its interacting proteins in primary human breast tumors may further illuminate their role in the development of breast cancer.MethodsWe performed a yeast two-hybrid study to identify proteins that interact with exon11 of BRCA1 and identified Protein Phosphatase 1β (PP1β), an isoform of the serine threonine phosphatase, PP1. GST-pull down and co-immunoprecipitation assays were performed to further characterize this interaction. Additionally, Real-Time PCR was utilized to determine the expression ofBRCA1,PP1α, β and γ in primary human breast tumors and normal breast tissue to identify alterations in the expression of these genes in breast cancer.ResultsPP1 and BRCA1 co-immunoprecipitate and the region within BRCA1 as well as the specific PP1 interacting domain mediating this interaction were identified. Following mRNA expression analysis, we identified low levels ofBRCA1and variable levels ofPP1α and β in primary sporadic human breast tumors. Furthermore, BRCA1,PP1β and PP1γ were significantly higher in normal tissue specimens (BRCA1 p = 0.01,PP1β: p = 0.03,PP1γ, p = 1.9 × 10-6) compared to sporadic breast tumor samples. Interestingly, we also identified that ER negative tumors are associated with low levels ofPP1α expression.ConclusionThe identification and characterization of the interaction of BRCA1 with PP1 and detection of changes in the expression ofPP1and genes encoding other BRCA1 associated proteins identifies important genetic pathways that may be significant to breast tumorigenesis. Alterations in the expression of genes, particularly phosphatases that operate in association with BRCA1, could negatively affect the function of BRCA1 or BRCA1 associated proteins, contributing to the development of breast cancer.
Costs of a successful public-private partnership for TB control in an urban setting in Nepal
Authors: Karki Deepak K , Mirzoev Tolib N , Green Andrew T , Newell James N , Baral Sushil C 
Published: May 2007

Abstract

Background
In South Asia a large number of patients seek treatment for TB from private practitioners (PPs), and there is increasing international interest in involving PPs in TB control. To evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness and costs of public-private partnerships (PPPs) for TB control, a PPP was developed in Lalitpur municipality, Nepal, where it is estimated that 50% of patients with TB are managed in the private sector. From the clinical perspective the PPP was shown to be effective. The aim of this paper is to assess and report on the costs involved in the PPP scheme.

Methods
The approach to costing took a comprehensive view, with inclusion of costs not only incurred by health facilities but also social costs borne by patients and their escorts. Semi-structured questionnaires and guided interviews were used to collect start-up and recurrent costs for the scheme.

Results
Overall costs for treating a TB patient under the PPP scheme averaged US$89.60. Start-up costs per patient represented 12% of the total budget. Half of recurrent costs were incurred by patients and their escorts, with institutional costs representing most of the rest. Female patients tended to spend more and patients referred from the private sector had the highest reported costs.

Conclusion
Treating TB patients in the PPP scheme had a low additional cost, while doubling the case notification rate and maintaining a high success rate. Costs incurred by patients and their escorts were the largest contributors to the overall total. This suggests a focus for follow-up studies and for cost-minimisation strategies.
Inhibition of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-mediated tryptophan catabolism accelerates collagen-induced arthritis in mice
Authors: Szántó Sándor , Koreny Tamás , Mikecz Katalin , Glant Tibor T , Szekanecz Zoltán , Varga John 
Published: May 2007

AbstractIndoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is one of the initial and rate-limiting enzymes involved in the catabolism of the essential amino acid tryptophan. In cultured cells, the induction of IDO leads to depletion of tryptophan and tryptophan starvation. Recent studies suggest that modulation of tryptophan concentration via IDO plays a fundamental role in innate immune responses. Induction of IDO by interferon-γ in macrophages and dendritic cells results in tryptophan depletion and suppresses the immune-mediated activation of fibroblasts and T, B, and natural killer cells. To assess the role of IDO in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), a model of rheumatoid arthritis characterized by a primarily Th1-like immune response, activity of IDO was inhibited by 1-methyl-tryptophan (1-MT) in vivo. The results showed significantly increased incidence and severity of CIA in mice treated with 1-MT. Activity of IDO, as determined by measuring the levels of kynurenine/tryptophan ratio in the sera, was increased in the acute phase of arthritis and was higher in collagen-immunized mice that did not develop arthritis. Treatment with 1-MT resulted in an enhanced cellular and humoral immune response and a more dominant polarization to Th1 in mice with arthritis compared with vehicle-treated arthritic mice. The results demonstrated that development of CIA was associated with increased IDO activity and enhanced tryptophan catabolism in mice. Blocking IDO with 1-MT aggravated the severity of arthritis and enhanced the immune responses. These findings suggest that IDO may play an important and novel role in the negative feedback of CIA and possibly in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.
IL-4-stimulated NF-κB activity is required for Stat6 DNA binding
Authors: Thieu Vivian T , Nguyen Evelyn T , McCarthy Brian P , Bruns Heather A , Kapur Reuben , Chang Cheong-Hee , Kaplan Mark H 
Published: May 2007

AbstractIL-4 is a critical cytokine in the regulation of immune responses. In B lymphocytes, IL-4 signaling promotes the Stat6-dependent cell surface expression of several proteins including MHC Class II and CD86. However, the requirement for other transcription factors in IL-4-induced B cell gene expression has not been studied extensively. Here, we show that IL-4 induces NF-κB p100 processing to NF-κB p52 in B cells but not in T cells or macrophages. IL-4 induced NF-κB p52 production requires PI-3K activity and correlates with IκB kinase phosphorylation and TNF receptor-associated factor 3 degradation. Blocking NF-κB activity eliminates IL-4-stimulated gene expression in B cells by reducing IL-4-induced DNA binding but not phosphorylation or nuclear localization of Stat6. These results describe a novel role for NF-κB in IL-4-induced signaling and gene expression.
Phase I Trial of Histone Deacetylase Inhibition by Valproic Acid Followed by the Topoisomerase II Inhibitor Epirubicin in Advanced Solid Tumors: A Clinical and Translational Study
Authors: Münster Pamela , Marchion Douglas , Bicaku Elona , Schmitt Morgen , Lee Ji Hyun , DeConti Ronald , Simon George , Fishman Mayer , Minton Susan , Garrett Chris , Chiappori Alberto , Lush Richard , Sullivan Daniel , Daud Adil 
Published: May 2007

Purpose To determine the safety, toxicity, and maximum-tolerated dose of a sequence-specific combination of the histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), valproic acid (VPA), and epirubicin in solid tumor malignancies and to define the clinical feasibility of VPA as an HDACi. Patients and Methods Patients were treated with increasing doses of VPA (days 1 through 3) followed by epirubicin (day 3) in 3-week cycles. The study evaluated pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic end points, toxicities, and tumor response. Results Forty-eight patients were enrolled, and 44 received at least one cycle of therapy. Patients (median age, 54 years; range, 39 to 78 years) received the following doses of VPA: 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 100, 120, 140, and 160 mg/kg/d. Dose-limiting toxicities were somnolence (n = 1), confusion (n = 3), and febrile neutropenia (n = 1). No exacerbation of epirubicin-related toxicities was observed. Partial responses were seen across different tumor types in nine patients (22%), and stable disease/minor responses were seen in 16 patients (39%), despite a median number of three prior regimens (range, zero to 10 prior regimens). Patients received a median number of four treatment cycles (range, one to 10 cycles), and treatment was stopped after reaching maximal epirubicin doses rather than progression in 13 (32%) of 41 patients patients. Total and free VPA plasma concentrations increased linearly with dose and correlated with histone acetylation in peripheral-blood mononuclear cells. Conclusion The maximum-tolerated dose and recommended phase II dose was VPA 140 mg/kg/d for 48 hours followed by epirubicin 100 mg/m2. Sustained plasma concentrations of VPA exceeding those required for in vitro synergy were achieved with acceptable toxicity. Noteworthy antitumor activity was observed in heavily pretreated patients and historically anthracycline-resistant tumors.
Solubility of salts in water: Key issue for crystal growth and dissolution processes
Authors: Koutsoukos Petros G. , Kofina Aikaterini N. , Kanellopoulou Dimitra G. 
Published: May 2007

Abstract
The formation of sparingly soluble salts from aqueous solutions and their dissolution has attracted broad research interest. Of particular importance is the formation and transformation of minerals exhibiting polymorphism or encountered in more than one crystalline phase as, for example, in the case of calcium phosphates, formed in biological mineralization and in industrial-scale deposits. Understanding of these processes depends primarily on the equilibrium between the mineral phases considered and the aqueous medium in contact. Precipitation takes place in supersaturated solutions with rates depending on the solution supersaturation. The experimental investigation may reveal mechanistic details if done at sustained supersaturation. The kinetics of crystal growth depends either on surface diffusion or on bulk diffusion, which in turn is controlled by the medium fluid dynamics. In the case of magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite), the presence of water-soluble organic compounds is responsible for the retardation both of the time needed for the onset of precipitation and for the kinetics of growth of the supercritical nuclei. Dissolution processes are controlled by the same mechanisms. In the case of calcitic marble, the dissolution in alkaline solutions is controlled by surface diffusion. Compounds active at the marble/water interface may in this case be used as protective agents.
Li-air batteries: A classic example of limitations owing to solubilities
Authors: Kowalczk Ian , Read Jeffery , Salomon Mark 
Published: May 2007

Abstract
A review is presented of the present state-of-the-art of Li-air cells and batteries. We examine the properties of this unique system in terms of the effects of solubilities of reactants and products in both nonaqueous (aprotic) and aqueous electrolyte solutions. Definite trends are observed, such as increasing cell-specific energy and capacity as both the oxygen solubility increases and viscosity decreases in organic solvents, but quantitative analyses are limited owing to the complex relations between solubility, solution viscosity, oxygen diffusion, and electrolytic conductivity. Adding to this complex relation is the dependence of the nature of the carbon-based air cathode (surface area and pore volume) upon practical specific capacities, which can be realized with Li-air cells that far exceed the specific energies and capacities of all present commercial metal-air and Li-ion cells and batteries.
Feature Construction Can Improve Diagnostic Criteria for High-Dimensional Metabolic Data in Newborn Screening for Medium-Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency
Authors: Ho Sirikit , Lukacs Zoltan , Hoffmann Georg F , Lindner Martin , Wetter Thomas 
Published: May 2007

Abstract
Background: In newborn screening with tandem mass spectrometry, multiple intermediary metabolites are quantified in a single analytical run for the diagnosis of fatty-acid oxidation disorders, organic acidurias, and aminoacidurias. Published diagnostic criteria for these disorders normally incorporate a primary metabolic marker combined with secondary markers, often analyte ratios, for which the markers have been chosen to reflect metabolic pathway deviations.
Methods: We applied a procedure to extract new markers and diagnostic criteria for newborn screening to the data of newborns with confirmed medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD) and a control group from the newborn screening program, Heidelberg, Germany. We validated the results with external data of the screening center in Hamburg, Germany. We extracted new markers by performing a systematic search for analyte combinations (features) with high discriminatory performance for MCADD. To select feature thresholds, we applied automated procedures to separate controls and cases on the basis of the feature values. Finally, we built classifiers from these new markers to serve as diagnostic criteria in screening for MCADD.
Results: On the basis of χ2 scores, we identified ∼800 of &gt;628 000 new analyte combinations with superior discriminatory performance compared with the best published combinations. Classifiers built with the new features achieved diagnostic sensitivities and specificities approaching 100%.
Conclusion: Feature construction methods provide ways to disclose information hidden in the set of measured analytes. Other diagnostic tasks based on high-dimensional metabolic data might also profit from this approach.
Carbonated Beverages
Authors: Morrow R. Steve , Quinn Christine M. ,   Updated by Staff
Published: May 2007

Abstract
Carbonated beverages were first introduced in the late 1880s. The annual per capita consumption of soft drinks in the United States has steadily risen from 16 oz (<0.5 L) in 1860 to nearly 192 gallons today.
The ingredients used to produce soft drinks include water, nutritive or nonnutritive sweeteners, acidulants, preservatives, carbon dioxide, colorants, and flavoring ingredients. Manufacturing of soft drinks generally includes preparing syrup from ingredients and then mixing with carbon dioxide and water. Quality control programs for ingredients, syrups, beverages, and packaging materials are conducted to ensure the integrity of the beverage.
Beverages are packaged in steel or aluminum cans, returnable and nonreturnable glass, and plastic bottles. Recycling and source reduction are important issues to the soft drink industry. New packaging utilizing recycled materials, market growth, and development of new nonnutritive sweeteners are important areas for future development health and safety issues are discussed.
Dietary Fiber
Authors: Lewis B. A. ,   Updated by Staff
Published: May 2007

Abstract
Dietary fiber is a complex mixture of nondigestible polysaccharides and lignin, the exact composition depends on the plant or other food source, maturity, growing conditions, and processing. Plant cell wall polysaccharides are extensively fermented by the microbial enzymes in the lower digestive tract. The particle size and shape, density, crystallinity, water‐holding capacity, and the level and type of dietary fiber affect the rate of passage of the digests through the digestive tract. Dietary fiber itself and the microbial fermentation in the colon give rise to various beneficial physiological effects. Dietary sources of soluble and insoluble fiber and their properties and methods for analysis are summarized. Specific food sources of dietary fiber are given. Fiber supplements are discussed.
Syrups
Authors: Hebeda Ronald E. ,   Updated by Staff
Published: May 2007

AbstractCorn sweeteners, maple syrup, and molasses, all commercially available syrups, are concentrated solutions of carbohydrate. These products, produced for a variety of food and nonfood applications, are in some cases also available in a dry form. Corn sweeteners are prepared from hydrolyzed starch and include dextrose, high fructose corn syrup, regular corn syrup, and maltodextrin, which all have in common the raw material source, general methods of preparation, and many properties and applications. Dextrose, the common or commercial name forD‐glucose, is available as a syrup or as a pure crystalline solid. High fructose corn syrup is produced by the partial enzymatic isomerization of dextrose. Corn syrups and maltodextrins are clear, colorless, viscous liquids prepared by hydrolysis of starch to solutions of dextrose, maltose, and higher molecular weight saccharides. Maple syrup, like corn syrup, is a nutritive sweetener produced as a concentrated carbohydrate (sucrose) solution. Molasses is a syrup produced as a by‐product of sugar manufacture.
Ordered Arrays of Nanostructures and Applications in High‐Efficient Nano‐Generators
Authors: Lei Y. , Jiao Z. , Wu M. , Wilde G. 
Published: May 2007

AbstractLarge‐scale ordered nanostructure arrays on substrates, including nanowires, nanotubes, nanodots, and nano‐holes, can be fabricated using template fabrication processes. The controllable structural parameters and properties of the ordered nanostructure arrays make them quite suitable to be used in many device‐related application areas. It is shown that large‐scale nanowire arrays are good candidates for the realization of a nano‐generator based on the piezoelectric effect of ZnO nanowires. The mechanism of a proposed high‐efficient nano‐generator based on an assembled nanowire/nanohole embedded structure shows high application potentials for biological and nanometer‐sized devices.
Modulation of Immobilized Lipase Enantioselectivity via Chemical Amination
Authors: Palomo Jose M. , Fernández‐Lorente Gloria , Guisán Jose M. , Fernández‐Lafuente Roberto 
Published: May 2007

AbstractThe aspartic and glutamic carboxylic groups of the surface of three different immobilized lipases (those from Candida antarctica (form B) (CAL‐B), Thermomyces lanuginose (TLL) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (PFL) have been modified with ethylenediamine (after activation of the carboxylic function with carbodiimide). The exchange of groups with a negative charge for positively charged groups permitted us to greatly alter the activity, specificity and stereoselectivity of the lipase. Thus, in some cases, the activity of the lipases increased after the chemical modification while in other cases the activity was strongly reduced. Moreover, the effect of the experimental conditions on the activity was also strongly altered. Remarkably, the enantioselectivity of the enzymes in the hydrolysis of different mandelic acid derivatives was strongly modulated. For example, amination of the CNBr‐CAL‐B preparation greatly increased the enantioselectivity of the enzyme in the hydrolysis of (±)‐2‐hydroxyphenylacetic acid methyl ester, from an E value of 2 without modification up to E>100, affording (R)‐mandelic acid in high purity (ee>99 % at 50 % conversion) at pH 7 and 4 °C. Thus, the chemical modification of lipases seems to be a very powerful tool to improve their performance as enantioselective biocatalysts.
Winning hearts and minds in Iraq through mediated condolence payments
Authors: Joseph Jeremy 
Published: May 2007

AbstractJeremy Joseph of Washington, D.C., proposes expanding condolence payments in Iraq, in which the military would compensate innocent victims of U.S. operations, in a manner similar to the Dalkon Shield and 2001 Victim Compensation Fund claims facilities. The article is an updated adaptation of a longer piece for which the author received a 2006 CPR Award for Excellence in ADR
With mediation leading the way, justice department readies progress report Touting big adr savings
Authors: Bleemer Russ 
Published: May 2007

AbstractThe U.S. Justice Department's Office of Dispute Resolution has been compiling data from throughout the executive branch on how conflict resolution processes are used, and what they provide. The result is a lengthy report with a treasure trove of ADR statistics focusing on savings of both dollars and time. The Justice staffers involved provide a preview of the report