bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Corticotropin-Releasing Factor-Overexpressing Mice Exhibit Reduced Neuronal Activation in the Arcuate Nucleus and Food Intake in Response to Fasting
Authors: Stengel Andreas , Goebel Miriam , Million Mulugeta , Stenzel-Poore Mary P. , Kobelt Peter , Mönnikes Hubert , Taché Yvette , Wang Lixin 
Published: September 2008

Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) overexpressing (OE) mice are a genetic model that exhibits features of chronic stress. We investigated whether the adaptive feeding response to a hypocaloric challenge induced by food deprivation is impaired under conditions of chronic CRF overproduction. Food intake response to a 16-h overnight fast and ip injection of gut hormones regulating food intake were compared in CRF-OE and wild type (WT) littermate mice along with brain Fos expression, circulating ghrelin levels, and gastric emptying of a nonnutrient meal. CRF-OE mice injected ip with saline showed a 47 and 44% reduction of 30-min and 4-h cumulative food intake response to an overnight fast, respectively, compared with WT. However, the 30-min food intake decrease induced by ip cholecystokinin (3 μg/kg) and increase by ghrelin (300 μg/kg) were similar in CRF-OE and WT mice. Overnight fasting increased the plasma total ghrelin to similar levels in CRF-OE and WT mice, although CRF-OE mice had a 2-fold reduction of nonfasting ghrelin levels. The number of Fos-immunoreactive cells induced by fasting in the arcuate nucleus was reduced by 5.9-fold in CRF-OE compared with WT mice whereas no significant changes were observed in other hypothalamic nuclei. In contrast, fasted CRF-OE mice displayed a 5.6-fold increase in Fos-immunoreactive cell number in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve and a 34% increase in 20-min gastric emptying. These findings indicate that sustained overproduction of hypothalamic CRF in mice interferes with fasting-induced activation of arcuate nucleus neurons and the related hyperphagic response.Sustained over-production of brain corticotrophin-releasing factor interferes with fasting-activated neuronal activation in the arcuate nucleus and results in reduction of food intake dissociated from gastric emptying.
Hybrid Membrane/PSA Processes for CO2/N2 Separation
Authors: Esteves Isabel A.A.C. , Mota José P.B. 
Published: September 2008

New integrated schemes combining membrane permeation and pressure swing adsorption (PSA) have been developed for gas separation. By using the membrane as a pre-bulk separation unit and coupling it to the intrinsically dynamic periodic operation of the PSA, the separation performance of the hybrid scheme is enhanced with respect to that of the two stand-alone units. Instead of constant-composition regular feed, the PSA is fed with a mixture which is progressively enriched in the more adsorbed component during the pressurization and high-pressure adsorption steps of the cycle. This results in sharper concentration fronts. The hybrid scheme detailed here has been applied successfully to the bulk separation of an 30:70 mol% CO2/N2 mixture over activated carbon. Process performance is reported in terms of product recovery and purity at cyclic steady state. Numerical simulations were validated by experimental work on a composite membrane and a laboratory-scale PSA unit. For the examples studied, product purity and recovery for the hybrid process were increased by 23% and 58% for CO2, and by 14% and 5% for N2, compared to an equivalent stand-alone PSA.
Adsorption of Zinc Ions from Water Using Zeolite/Iron Oxide Composites
Authors: Fungaro Denise A. , Graciano José E. A. 
Published: September 2008

The adsorption characteristics of zeolites synthesized from fly ash were combined in a composite with the magnetic properties of iron oxides to produce adsorbents which were magnetic materials. Such zeolite/iron oxide magnetic composites were prepared with weight ratios of 3:1, 2:1 and 1:1. The experimental data for the equilibrium adsorption isotherms of Zn2+ ions onto the composites were modelled using the Freundlich and Langmuir equations. The presence of iron oxide had no significant effect on the adsorption capacities of the magnetic composites. The experimental data were also employed to determine the kinetic characteristics of the adsorption process. The adsorption of Zn2+ ions was found to follow pseudo-second-order type kinetics. Although intra-particle diffusion occurred in the adsorption processes, it could not be accepted as the primary rate-determining step. The evaluated thermodynamic parameters indicated that the adsorption of Zn2+ ions onto zeolite/iron composites was spontaneous and endothermic.
Time Delay Based Noise Control in Centrifugal Fans
Authors: Golmohammadi Rostam , Rahimi Jamshid , Mossavi Saeid Hossien , Mahjub Hossien 
Published: September 2008

The most common noise control systems are already based on passive and active techniques. Passive noise control is a typical technique for high frequency noise and active noise control also for low frequency noise. In this paper, a simple and cheap method is proposed to determine the difference between sound waves of two centrifugal fans based on time delay in power starting to control low frequency noise. The highest level in the noise level analysis shown in study fans is at 250 Hz. In the interference stage of study, noise measurements were recorded in the time delay of 3, 6 and 8 ms for power start for one of the fans. Results showed that an 8 ms time delay resulted in 1.3 – 2.3 dB(L) reduction in total sound pressure level of fans. This method is suggested for noise control of low frequency in the same sources.
Implications of New Radiobiological Insights for the Long Term Management of High Level Radioactive Waste
Authors: Baverstock Keith 
Published: September 2008

The IAEA has laid down nine principles of radioactive waste management [1], the first of which covers the protection of human health and demands that radioactive waste will be managed in such a way as to provide an acceptable level of protection. The fourth principle demands that future generations are protected in terms of the level of predicted impacts at the same level of protection as applies today. Recent developments in the understanding of the effects of ionising radiation, particularly at low doses and especially for some of the radiation qualities that characterise long lived components of radioactive waste, suggest that there may have been an underestimation of the predicted impact on health of future generations should radioactive waste products reach the biosphere. This could undermine the existing management framework upon which radiological protection is based and may lead to violation of the fourth principle. This paper addresses, from an “in principle” perspective, the issues that new radiobiological evidence and recent developments in biology and genetics have raised in the context of determining radiological risk from internal contamination. Special emphasis is placed on radiation qualities, low energy beta particles, Auger electrons and alpha particles, which characterise the nuclides that are associated with long-lived radioactive decay processes. While absorbed tissue dose remains a guide to one aspect of the risks incurred by exposure (called herein type A risk), evidence is accumulating that other cellular processes may contribute to additional risk (type B risk). These processes are the induction of genomic instability and the bystander effect. Risk assessment in these cases cannot readily and convincingly be based on absorbed tissue dose and require addressing at the levels of the individual cell and the specific track structural features of the different radiation qualities. A potential framework for assessing type B risk is proposed. It is concluded that there is no basis to assume other than that the linear no threshold (LNT) hypothesis will apply to risks (types A and B) from exposure to environmental radioactivity deriving from leakage of buried radioactive wastes.
Disposing of Britain's Nuclear Waste: The Corwm Process
Authors: Wallis Max K. 
Published: September 2008

The Committee on Radioactive Waste Management (CoRWM) set up in 2003 was tasked to oversee a review of options for managing UK radioactive waste and to engage the public in choosing a long-term solution with the objective of inspiring public confidence. This paper reviews the Committee's processes against their remit and guidance on public engagement. It shows that CoRWM assumed proof-of-concept for geological disposal, despite the contrary verdict of the Sellafield inquiry, and biased the framing of options against ‘interim storage plus ongoing R&D’ (Netherlands option). CoRWM also failed to propose technical criteria comparable to those used internationally, and to resolve the deep disagreement on timescale between key stakeholders. The paper points out vested interests operated via CoRWM's programme manager (AMEC-NNC) and sees the checking role of Defra's chief scientist as also undermining the proclaimed independence of the Committee. CoRWM did recognise their need to range much wider than scientific and technical issues, introducing concepts of institutional breakdown, volunteerism, and socio-cultural timescales. However, these concepts were not subjected to stakeholder consultation and public judgement. The audit of public and stakeholder engagement omitted questions of procedural norms, imbalance of power, and lack of consultation on novel judgements. Two late ‘show stoppers' were ignored in a desire to complete the task, resulting in a fudged compromise papering over deep divisions between members. Their final choice of ‘Phased Deep Geological Disposal’ expressed qualified confidence in the concept, yet favoured keeping the repository open while continuing R&D into other options. The substantial scientific uncertainties associated with this choice, the problematic process by which this decision was reached, and the concerns associated with the modes of public engagement, mean that their ‘solution’ is more rhetorical than real. The technical problems and requirements for public confidence remain obscured and unresolved. The reasons for this problematic outcome are located in the current UK policy push for substantial new nuclear power plants and in a culture tolerant of vested interest in nuclear policy-making and civil service warping of the science process.
Temporary Correction of Transverse Plane Pelvic Rotation via a Three Minute Exercise Program
Authors: Wright David F. , Mellman Michael , Watkins Robert 
Published: September 2008

A sample of 25 golfers, 12 professionals and 13 amateurs, ages 23 to 63 years, were measured for transverse plane pelvic rotation using light electrodes positioned bilaterally on the iliac crests. Transverse plane pelvic rotation was present in all of the golfers measured. All subjects were measured from a shoulder width stance, two inches wider and two inches narrower than shoulder width in a standing, erect posture and a golf set-up posture without a club. Transverse plane pelvic rotation in the 25 subjects ranged from 1 inch to 4 inches as recorded by stance correction with an average of 2.25 inches of rotation at a shoulder width stance. A dowel pole bar with light electrodes fixed to the bar was attached to the transverse pelvic plane 3 inches below the iliac crest for the purpose of validation of a measurement instrument in the field. The pelvic rotation was temporarily corrected through a simple three minute exercise program Nineteen of the 25 subjects were seen in follow-up in the field where the dowel bar was used and they had each returned to their measured baseline pelvic rotation. Again, their measured pelvic rotation was corrected via a simple three minute exercise program The authors discuss the use of the exercise program for both golf coaching and research, and also present the validation of a simple instrument that could be used in the field to measure transverse pelvic plane rotation
Biochemical and molecular investigation of two Korean patients with glycogen storage disease type III
Authors: Oh Sue-Hyun , Park Hyung-Doo , Ki Chang-Seok , Choe Yon-Ho , Lee Soo-Youn 
Published: September 2008

Abstract: Glycogen storage disease type III (GSD-III) is an inborn error of glycogen metabolism caused by a deficiency of the glycogen debranching enzyme, amylo-1,6-glucosidase,4-α-glucanotransferase (AGL). Here, we describe two unrelated Korean patients with GSD-III and review their clinical and laboratory findings.: The patients were 18- and 11-month-old girls. They presented with hepatosplenomegaly, developmental delay and hypotonia. The routine laboratory findings showed an elevated serum aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, creatine kinase and triglyceride levels. The blood lactate and uric acid levels were within normal limits. PCR and direct sequencing were performed to determine genetic findings.: Glycogen quantitation was markedly increased and AGL activity was undetectable in both patients. Sequence analysis of the: GSD-III should be ruled out when a patient presents with hepatic abnormalities, hypoglycemia, myopathy and hyperlipidemia. This is the first report of confirmation of GSD-III in Korean patients by biochemical and genetic findings.Clin Chem Lab Med 2008;46:1245–9.
Impedance spectroscopy and circuit modeling of Southern pine above 20% moisture content
Authors: Zelinka Samuel L. , Rammer Douglas R. , Stone Donald S. 
Published: September 2008

Abstract
Impedance spectra were collected from Southern pine (Pinus spp.) equilibrated to a moisture content 20% and a saturated condition. Cylindrical graphite electrodes were embedded in the wood so that they met nearly end-to-end along a line parallel to the grain, and impedance properties were characterized as functions of electrode spacing and electrode contact pressure at frequencies between 1×10-1 and 3×105 Hz. The data exhibit a low-frequency tail that can be fit with a Warburg element, indicative of a diffusive motion of charge carriers. Values of the Warburg impedance were compared with previously published data on molar conductivities of endogenous mineral ions in wood. The data suggest that mineral ions are the predominant charge carriers in wood at low frequencies and high moisture contents based on the strong correlation between the Warburg impedance and molar conductivities.
A comparative study of bamboo Lyocell fiber and other regenerated cellulose fibers 2nd ICC 2007, Tokyo, Japan, October 25–29, 2007
Authors: Yang Gesheng , Zhang Yaopeng , Shao Huili , Hu Xuechao 
Published: September 2008

Abstract
A new type of regenerated cellulose fiber can be made from bamboo cellulose by the Lyocell process. In this paper, the morphology and crystal structure of the bamboo Lyocell fiber was investigated by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and wide angle X-ray diffractometry. Moreover, the mechanical properties, fibrillation behavior, moisture adsorption property, negative ion effect, and antibacterial capability of the bamboo Lyocell fiber were studied. The results showed that the bamboo Lyocell fiber proved to be similar to the structure and properties of wood Lyocell fiber, such as smooth surface, circular cross-section, high crystallinity, high tensile strength, low elongation at break, good moisture adsorption property, and easy fibrillation. Furthermore, the bamboo Lyocell fiber surpassed wood Lyocell fiber concerning negative ion effect and antibacterial property.
Cell wall features with regard to mechanical performance. A review COST Action E35 2004–2008: Wood machining – micromechanics and fracture
Authors: Salmén Lennart , Burgert Ingo 
Published: September 2008

Abstract
The mechanical performance of wood and wood products is highly dependent on the structural arrangement and properties of the polymers within the fibre cell wall. To improve utilisation and manufacture of wood materials, there is an increasing need for a more detailed knowledge regarding structure/property relations at the micro- or nanostructural level. In this article, recent developments regarding our understanding of the wood cell wall structure and its mechanical performance are summarised. The new results are interpreted in relation to property performances of wood fibres and wood tissues. Suggestions are made for future requirements for research in this field.
Fracture behaviour of wood and its composites. A review COST Action E35 2004–2008: Wood machining – micromechanics and fracture
Authors: Stanzl-Tschegg Stefanie E. , Navi Parviz 
Published: September 2008

Abstract
Fracturing of wood and its composites is a process influenced by many parameters, on the one hand coming from the structure and properties of wood itself, and on the other from influences from outside, such as loading mode, velocity of deformation, moisture, temperature, etc. Both types of parameters may be investigated experimentally at different levels of magnification, which allows a better understanding of the mechanisms of fracturing. Fracture mechanical methods serve to quantify the fracture process of wood and wood composites with different deformation and fracturing features. Since wood machining is mainly dominated by the fracture properties of wood, knowledge of the different relevant mechanisms is essential. Parameters that influence the fracture process, such as wood density, orientation, loading mode, strain rate and moisture are discussed in the light of results obtained during recent years. Based on this, refined modelling of the different processes becomes possible.
Convergence rates and source conditions for Tikhonov regularization with sparsity constraints
Authors: Lorenz D. A. 
Published: September 2008

Abstract
This paper addresses the regularization by sparsity constraints by means of weighted ℓ
p
penalties for 0 ≤ p ≤ 2. For 1 ≤ p ≤ 2 special attention is payed to convergence rates in norm and to source conditions. As main results it is proven that one gets a convergence rate of in the 2-norm for 1 < p ≤ 2 and in the 1-norm for p = 1 as soon as the unknown solution is sparse. The case p = 1 needs a special technique where not only Bregman distances but also a so-called Bregman-Taylor distance has to be employed.
For p < 1 only preliminary results are shown. These results indicate that, different from p ≥ 1, the regularizing properties depend on the interplay of the operator and the basis of sparsity. A counterexample for p = 0 shows that regularization need not to happen.
Plasma pigment epithelium-derived factor is positively associated with obesity in Caucasian subjects, in particular with the visceral fat depot
Authors: Wang Ping , Smit Egbert , Brouwers Martijn C G J , Goossens Gijs H , van der Kallen Carla J H , van Greevenbroek Marleen M J , Mariman Edwin C M 
Published: September 2008

ObjectiveAdipose tissue releases factors (adipokines) that influence local, peripheral as well as central processes. In the present study, we determined the relationship between plasma concentration of a recently identified adipokine, pigment epithelium-derived factor (SERPINF1), and human obesity, particularly specific adipose tissue depots, and other features of the metabolic syndrome.MethodsWe examined the plasma concentration of SERPINF1, anthropometric parameters, abdominal s.c. and visceral adipose tissue, lipid, glucose, insulin, and alanine aminotransferase level in a non-diabetic general Caucasian population (n=59).ResultsPlasma SERPINF1 level in males (6.2±2.1 μg/ml) was higher than in females (3.1±1.4 μg/ml; P<0.001). Plasma SERPINF1 was positively correlated with age and all features of metabolic syndrome. However, in multiple linear regression analysis with adjustment for age and gender, only visceral fat thickness (β=0.361, P=0.010) and body mass index (β=0.288, P=0.008) were significant independent determinants of plasma SERPINF1 level, together with gender (β=−0.424, P<0.001).ConclusionsWe conclude that the plasma SERPINF1 level is strongly associated with body adiposity, in particular with the visceral fat depot in the non-diabetic general population. This association may (partly) explain the relationship between SERPINF1 and metabolic syndrome in this population.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein and pituitary adenomas: a population-based study on subjects exposed to dioxin after the Seveso, Italy, accident
Authors: Pesatori Angela Cecilia , Baccarelli Andrea , Consonni Dario , Lania Andrea , Beck-Peccoz Paolo , Bertazzi Pier Alberto , Spada Anna 
Published: September 2008

ObjectiveThe pathogenesis of sporadic pituitary tumors is unknown. Loss-of-function mutations of aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein (AIP) have been identified in patients with familial pituitary tumors. AIP is a chaperone protein with multifunction properties, including modulation of the transcriptional activity of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which mediates toxicological and carcinogenic dioxin effects.DesignWe investigated the incidence of pituitary tumors in the Seveso population exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin following an industrial accident in 1976.MethodsThrough the hospital discharge registration system of Lombardy Region, we identified incident cases of pituitary adenomas between 1976 and 1996 in the Seveso population, subdivided in zone A (n=804), B (n=5.941), and R (n=38.624) according to high, intermediate, and low exposure to dioxin respectively, and in the surrounding non-contaminated area, as reference (n=232 745).ResultsWe identified 42 pituitary adenomas in the reference area, 1 prolactinoma in zone A (rate ratio (RR) 6.2; 95% CI 0.9–45.5, P=0.07), 2 nonfuctioning pituitary tumors (NFPAs) in zone B (RR 1.9; 95% CI 0.5–7.7, P=0.39), and 3 prolactinomas and 2 NFPAs in zone R (RR 0.7; 95% CI 0.3–1.8, P=0.48).ConclusionsThe study is unique with regard to the availability of epidemiological and clinical data in an area of relatively pure dioxin exposure. The study indicates no statistically significant increase of incident pituitary tumors in this area, although the tendency toward a higher risk (three cases in zones A and B) of pituitary tumors in subjects exposed to high–intermediate dioxin concentrations in comparison with nonexposed population suggests the need for extended follow-up.