bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Trace Element Reference Values in Serum Determined by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Rahil-Khazen Reem , Bolann Bjørn J. , Ulvik Rune J. 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
Serum reference values for Ba, B, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Li, Se, Sr, and Zn in 141 healthy Norwegians were determined. The trace element concentrations were determined by the inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry technique that we have recently validated. The reference intervals were established according to the recommendations of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. Also coverage intervals with coverage uncertainties were calculated according to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry. The population studied consisted of 69 men and 72 women of the ages 21–87 years. The effects of gender, age, smoking, and oral contraceptives on serum levels of trace elements were investigated. Median concentrations of the different trace elements in (μmol/l) were as follows: Ba (0.44), B (1.50), Cd (0.004), Cu (17.1), Fe (21.4), Li (0.06), Mn (0.003), Se (1.26), Sr (0.17), and Zn (13.3). An increase in serum Ba and Sr was detected with age. These metals and Se were also significantly higher in women over 50 years of age in comparison to younger women. Women had higher serum Cu than men and those on oral contraceptives had higher serum Cu and Fe. Serum B tended to increase with age, while it was significantly reduced with smoking.
Comparative Multicentre Study of a Panel of Thyroid Tests Using Different Automated Immunoassay Platforms and Specimens at High Risk of Antibody Interference
Authors: Martel Julie , Després Normand , Ahnadi Charaf E. , Lachance Jean-François , Monticello James E. , Fink Guy , Ardemagni Anna , Banfi Giuseppe , Tovey John , Dykes Peter , John Rhys , Jeffery Jinny , Grant Andrew M. 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
The introduction of automation for immunoassays in recent years has brought about important and evident improvements in assay precision. Increasing standardization and comparability between platforms should enable the development of clinical guidelines and diagnostic algorithms for appropriate clinical decision making. A continuing source of variation between different automated immunoassay platforms is the sporadic effect of interfering antibodies or substances, thus causing aberrant results not supporting the patient's clinical status.
The aim of this study was to describe current thyroid panel variation between automated immunoassay platforms including population specimens at risk of antibody interference. A multisite design with laboratories in three different countries using four different automated immunoassay platforms (Roche-Boehringer Mannheim Elecsys® (Italy), Roche-Boehringer Mannheim ES300® (Wales), Bayer Immuno 1® and the Bayer ACS:180® evaluated the thyroid panel of thyrotropin (TSH), triiodothyromine (T3), free thryroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3). A common set of 158 randomly selected patient samples of non-thyroid and thyroid disorders, with and without treatment, was tested. Included were 62 patient samples at risk for endogenous antibody interference with high antimicrosomal antibody, anti-TSH receptor antibody and increased rheumatoid factor sub-populations.
Across all controls and between platforms, precision measurements were comparable and varied between 0.7% and 12.8% for TSH, 2.8% and 13% for FT4, 1.8% and 10.5% for FT3 and 3.1% and 16% for T3 assay. Acceptable correlation and reproducibility were found between the three Bayer Immuno 1 platforms at each country's site with all four thyroid panel assays demonstrating r-values of 0.989 to 1.000 and slopes of 0.915 to 1.078. Comparisons between the different platforms showed acceptable correlation for all thyroid panel assays. Specimens containing rheumatoid factor were associated with a significantly increased variation between systems for the FT4 and FT3 assays (p < 0.01). This effect did not appear to be selective for a given platform. For specimens with raised autoimmune antibodies and therefore at risk of assay antibody interference, no variation could be observed between the platforms.
Reduction of Weathering Degradation of Wood Through Plasma-Polymer Coating
Authors: Denes Agnes R. , Young Raymond A. 
Published: October 2004

Summary
A novel plasma-enhanced coating for wood substrates has been developed which diminishes the degradation of wood under simulated harsh environmental conditions. Reflective (zinc oxide) and electromagnetic radiation (EMR)-absorbent (benzotriazole, 2-hydroxybenzophenone, phtalocyanine, and graphite) substances were incorporated into a liquid phase, high-molecular-weight polydimethylsiloxane and deposited as thin layers on wood surfaces. The macromolecular films, containing the dispersed materials, were then converted into a three-dimensional solid state network by exposure to a 30 kHz-oxygen-RF-plasma. The discharge induced chemistry and altered surface topographies in the surface layers were monitored by survey and high resolution Electron Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis, Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. The surface characteristics and the resistance to weathering of the plasma treated substrates were evaluated and compared to the properties of un-modified samples.
VOC Extraction from Softwood Through Low-Headspace Heating
Authors: Su Wei , Boerner James R. , Hooda Usha , Yan Hui , Banerjee Sujit , Shmulsky Rubin , Ingram Leonard L. , Conners Terrance E. 
Published: October 2004

Summary
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), principally terpenes, released during wood drying face present or potential regulation. Two approaches are reported to control VOC release: heating green wood, or irradiating it with microwave energy, both in a low-headspace environment where evaporation is minimized. Low-headspace heating of green flakes (for OSB manufacture) releases VOCs but proportionately much less water. Hence, it is feasible to extract and collect the VOCs from green wood prior to drying, and to then dry it with lowered emissions. Irradiating flakes with microwave leads to contrasting behavior. Water is released with very little VOC loss if the flakes are microwaved in an open container. Microwaving under low-headspace conditions removes the VOCs, but retains the water in the wood. The water trapped in the wood because of the low-headspace restriction drives the VOCs out of the hydrophobic regions (e.g., resin canals) where they are principally located, into hydrophilic zones. Movement out of the hydrophilic environment and out of the wood is then quite rapid. Hence, either VOC or water release can be targeted by adjusting the headspace during microwaving. Most of the VOCs lost during drying originate from the surface, and low-headspace microwaving releases this surficial material. Hydrogen isotope exchange work shows that microwaving increases water access to the exchangeable protons in dry, or partially dry, wood tissue. The terpenes are carried out with the small amount of steam generated. Similar results are obtained with low-headspace radiofrequency (RF) irradiation of lumber; RF treatment does not induce a significant change in strength.
Localization of Wood Improvement Compounds by Microautoradiography and ESEM
Authors: Rosenqvist Marie 
Published: October 2004

Summary
Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy, ESEM, was used to investigate microautoradiographs of Scots pine (Pinus silvestris L.) sapwood painted with a priming oil containing 14C-labelled alkyd paint binders.
Microautoradiography is a photographic method which reveals the localization of compounds labelled with a radioactive isotope in the investigated material. The photographically developed silver grains in the microautoradiograph indicate where the labelled compounds are situated.
Microautoradiographs were investigated with ESEM in their natural state, without conventional preparation techniques which are time-consuming and may cause unwanted artefacts. It is demonstrated that the wood structure is clearly visible in the mainly transparent photographic film of the microautoradiographs. Images produced by the backscatter emission detector were of high quality, silver grains and wood structure are visible at the same time and the images are almost without artefacts due to charge built-up, which it is not possible to achieve using a conventional SEM.
The investigation of penetration into wood with microautoradiography can thus be conveniently evaluated by ESEM.
Adsorption of Liquids and Swelling of Wood IV. Temperature Dependence on the Adsorption
Authors: Morisato Kei , Kotani Hitoshi , Ishimaru Yutaka , Urakami Hiroyuki 
Published: October 2004

Summary
For the purpose of understanding the swelling phenomenon of wood in liquids, the contributions of enthalpic and entropic terms to the standard free energy change of adsorption have been determined by measuring the temperature dependence of adsorption isotherms. The values of standard enthalpy change of adsorption are smaller for alcohols having both proton-accepting and -donating properties than for acetone having only a proton-accepting property. The results are discussed in terms of the proton-accepting power and the cohesive energy of the respective adsorbate liquids. Methanol showed a larger isosteric heat of adsorption to dried wood than to pre-swollen wood, and the amounts of methanol and acetone adsorbed on dried wood exceeded those on swollen wood within the low activity range. These results indicate the presence of more exothermic sites in dried wood than in pre-swollen wood, and of pre-existing spaces and/or parts loosely hydrogen-bonded between wood constituents in the cell walls of dried wood.
Effect of UV radiation on the carbonyl distribution in different pulps
Authors: Potthast Antje , Schiehser Sonja , Rosenau Thomas , Sixta Herbert , Kosma Paul 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
The effect of UV irradiation on unbleached and TCF-bleached dissolving pulp samples of different provenience, a beech sulphite and an eucalyptus prehydrolysis kraft pulp, has been analyzed according to the CCOA method, evaluating the changes in the molecular weight distribution, the total number of carbonyl groups and the carbonyl group profiles of each pulp. In the case of TCF bleached material, slightly more carbonyl groups were introduced into the kraft pulp as compared to the sulfite pulp. Cellulose degradation was relatively low in both pulps.
In the case of unbleached sulfite pulps, the residual lignin had only a minor effect on the molecular weight distribution and the oxidation state of the cellulose, whereas for eucalyptus kraft pulp a pronounced introduction of carbonyl groups accompanied by severe degradation of cellulose was observed. The presence of hemicelluloses governed the photochemical behavior and the carbonyl profiles of the low molecular weight region of the cellulose.
Principles of Variable Amplitude Fatigue Design and Testing
Authors: Sonsino CM 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
The proper consideration of variable amplitude loading by utilizing service spectra and appropriate Gassner-lines is essential for the design of light-weight components and structures by allowing loads in significant excess of the Woehler-line (S-N curve). This permits higher stresses than under constant amplitude loading and renders reduced component dimensions. Reliable reconstitution and simulation methods for service load-time histories require not only the rainflow matrices, but also information about the order of the cycles described by Markovian matrices, the power spectral density and, for multiaxial applications, the cross-correlations between the particular load directions as well as the phase relations. A major problem in numerical fatigue life assessment is still the fatigue life calculations for spectrum loading, because of the scattering of the real damage sum D over a wide range, which is not entirely understood. These findings demonstrate the need for experimental spectrum tests, which are indispensable for ensuring the safety of parts. With regard to safety and liability requirements, the failure probability resulting from the probability of occurrence of the spectrum, from the scattering of the fatigue strength and from the failure criterion (technical crack or propagation), must be taken into account.
Validation of Complex Wheel/Hub Subassemblies by Multiaxial Laboratory Tests Using Standardized Load Files
Authors: Fischer G 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
For the evaluation of safety components like the wheel/hub subassembly, the operational loading, including special event loading as well as the influence of adjacent components and their interaction, must be taken into account. By using the described test procedure in the Biaxial Test Facility, all service-like deformations can be simulated in accelerated program tests. A reliable time, as well cost, saving validation of new designs, materials, and manufacturing technologies can be carried out.
A Framework for a Standardization Effort for Fatigue Crack Growth Testing Under Variable Amplitude Spectrum Loading
Authors: McKeighan PC , McMaster FJ 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
Fatigue crack growth testing under variable amplitude loading conditions is currently not standardized. Without standardization, the methods and techniques applied by different laboratories vary, and as such, lab-based bias can occur readily. The goal of this paper is to discuss in detail the experience developed and lessons learned during years of spectrum crack growth testing. Issues concerned with specimen geometry, crack geometry, precracking methodology, crack length measurement, spectrum content, load magnitude control, and interpretation of results are addressed herein. Although the ASTM Standard Test Method for Measurement of Fatigue Crack Growth Rates, E 647, provides guidance that is useful to this test, the specialized nature of spectrum testing does provide its own unique set of issues different from da/dN versus ΔK testing.
Large Commercial Aircraft Loading Spectra: Overview and State of the Art
Authors: Divenah LL , Beaufils J-Y 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of an Airbus' approach regarding fatigue spectra for large commercial aircraft. An accurate load representation is essential to the modern aircraft fatigue optimization process. The effort to develop spectra must be consistent with the efforts made to optimize materials and geometries. The main characteristics of large commercial aircraft spectra, both for prediction and testing, are presented. Recent advances are specifically highlighted.
Multi-Mechanism Synergy in Variable-Amplitude Fatigue
Authors: Sunder R , Ashbaugh NE , Porter WJ , Rosenberger AH 
Published: October 2004

Abstract
Fractographic studies on Al alloys and a nickel-base super-alloy point to the combined action of three major load-interaction mechanisms in controlling crack growth under variable-amplitude loading. These are crack closure, residual stress, and crack front incompatibility. Crack front incompatibility attenuates crack tip response to applied load and can also increase crack closure stress. Notch root residual stress affects crack closure, while crack tip residual stress moderates environment-enhanced fatigue crack extension. The latter effect disappears in vacuum. Experiments designed to isolate the effect of individual mechanisms provide a framework to model their synergistic action, consistent with microscopic observations of crack growth bands in variable amplitude fatigue.
Developmental toxicity evaluation of 3‐chloro‐4‐(dichloromethyl)‐5‐hydroxy‐2(5H)‐furanone (MX) in Wistar rats
Authors: Huuskonen Hannele , Venäläinen Raili , Komulainen Hannu 
Published: October 2004

Abstract3‐Chloro‐4‐(dichloromethyl)‐5‐hydroxy‐2(5H)‐furanone (MX) is a genotoxic chlorination by‐product in drinking water. There is some evidence that it has developmental toxic effects in vitro but its potential to cause developmental effects in vivo is not known. The developmental effects were evaluated in Wistar rats. Rats (22–26 dams per dose group) were administered MX by gavage at the dose levels of 3, 30, or 60 mg/kg in water on gestation days 6–19. Control animals received plain water. Clinical signs, body weight, and food and water consumption were recorded for the dams. On gestation day 20, a cesarean section was performed and the ovaries and uterine contents of the dams were examined and the liver, kidneys, spleen, and thyroid glands weighed. The fetuses of all dose groups were weighed, sexed, and observed for external and skeletal malformations and the fetuses of the two highest dose groups were evaluated for visceral malformations. The highest dose, 60 mg/kg of MX, was slightly toxic to the dams. It decreased the corrected body weight gain of dams by 32% and the water consumption by 16–17%. Kidney and liver weights were slightly increased. MX did not affect the number of implantations nor did it cause any resorptions. The body weights of fetuses were not significantly affected. MX did not cause external malformations or skeletal anomalies. Two fetuses at 60 mg/kg and one fetus at 30 mg/kg had major visceral malformations (persistent truncus arteriosus, diaphragmatic hernia, dilated aorta with a stenosis of pulmonary arteries) and two minor artery abnormalities were observed in those animals. The frequency of unilateral displaced testis was slightly higher (9.2%) in the 60‐mg/kg dose group than in controls (1.6%). Since the abnormalities did not form a consistent pattern and occurred most at maternally toxic dose, we conclude that MX can be regarded as non‐teratogenic. Birth Defects Research Part B 68:172–179, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long-term outcome of laparoscopic ventral rectopexy for total rectal prolapse
Authors: D'Hoore A , Cadoni R , Penninckx F 
Published: October 2004

Abstract

Background
Postoperative constipation is a common problem with most mesh suspension techniques used to correct rectal prolapse. Autonomic denervation of the rectum subsequent to its complete mobilization has been suggested as a contributory factor. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term outcome of patients who underwent a novel, autonomic nerve-sparing, laparoscopic technique for rectal prolapse.

Methods
Between 1995 and 1999, 42 patients had laparoscopic ventral rectopexy for total rectal prolapse. The long-term results after a median follow-up of 61 (range 29–98) months were analysed.

Results
There were no major postoperative complications. Late recurrence occurred in two patients. In 28 of 31 patients with incontinence there was a significant improvement in continence. Symptoms of obstructed defaecation resolved in 16 of 19 patients. During follow-up, new onset of mild obstructed defaecation was noted in only two patients. Symptoms suggestive of slow-transit colonic obstipation were not induced.

Conclusion
Laparoscopic ventral rectopexy is an effective technique for the correction of rectal prolapse and appears to avoid severe postoperative constipation. The ventral position of the prosthesis may explain the beneficial effect on symptoms of obstructed defaecation.
Positron emission tomography in the staging and management of breast cancer
Authors: Byrne A M , Hill A D K , Skehan S J , McDermott E W , O'Higgins N J 
Published: October 2004

Abstract

Background
Breast cancer is the commonest cause of cancer death in women in the Western world, and imaging is essential in its diagnosis and staging. Metabolic imaging is a novel approach to improving the detection of cancers, as malignant transformation of cells is often associated with increased metabolic activity. This review assesses the possible role of positron emission tomography (PET) as a single non-invasive imaging modality to replace or complement current imaging and surgical practices in the diagnosis and staging of breast cancer.

Methods and results
A Medline search was performed and articles were cross-referenced with other relevant material. Evaluation of primary breast cancer with PET has shown a sensitivity of between 64 and 100 per cent and a specificity of 33–100 per cent; diagnostic accuracy appears to be related to tumour size. Difficulties arise in altered fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in lobular carcinoma, carcinoma in situ and benign inflammatory breast disease. In axillary staging, sensitivities of between 25 and 100 per cent have been reported, but with a false-negative of up to 20 per cent. In the assessment of distant metastasis and asymptomatic patients with raised levels of tumour markers, PET was superior to conventional imaging modalities.

Conclusion
PET is not a single diagnostic and staging tool that can replace current surgical, histological and radiological staging. Its main role in breast cancer lies in the investigation of metastatic disease and the evaluation of pathological response to various chemotherapeutic regimens.
Strictureplasty
Authors: Roy P , Kumar D 
Published: October 2004

Abstract

Background
Advances in the use of bowel-sparing surgery for Crohn's disease have led to the development of strictureplasty as an important technique to conserve small bowel length and reduce morbidity associated with malabsorption.

Methods
A literature review of long-term studies on strictureplasty was undertaken, and evidence of its safety and efficacy was evaluated.

Results
The safety and efficacy of strictureplasty is confirmed in retrospective studies carried out over a period of 5–10 years, particularly when employed in patients at risk of short bowel syndrome, but certain questions regarding bowel function and disease activity after surgery remain unanswered. There is also concern that diseased tissue is left in situ after strictureplasty; this tissue has the potential for malignant transformation in the long term.

Conclusion
Strictureplasty has been used in surgery for Crohn's disease for the past 25 years. Studies have proven its efficacy in the treatment of carefully selected patients at risk of malabsorption owing to short bowel syndrome.
Efforts towards the Design of ‘Teflon’ Proteins: In vivo Translation with Trifluorinated Leucine and Methionine Analogues
Authors: Budisa Nediljko , Pipitone Olga , Siwanowicz Igor , Rubini Marina , Pal Prajna Paramita , Holak Tad A. , Gelmi Maria Luisa 
Published: October 2004

AbstractIn vivo incorporation of monofluorinated noncanonical amino acids into recombinant proteins has been well‐established for decades. Proteins fluorinated in this way proved to be useful tools for many practical applications. In contrast, trifluorinated amino acids have been incorporated in only a few peptides and relatively small proteins by using expression systems in living cells. A novel class of proteins with a fluorous core can be envisaged only if full replacement of the core‐building hydrophobic and aliphatic amino acids such as leucine or methionine with the related analogues trifluoromethionine and trifluoroleucine would be feasible. However, our systematic efforts to introduce these amino acids in larger proteins (over 10 Da) that contain different structural motifs clearly show that only partial substitutions are possible. The reasons are high toxicity of these substances and difficulties to accommodate them into the compact cores of natural proteins without adverse effects on their structural integrity. Therefore, engineering of such three dimensional ‘Teflon’‐like structures would require, besides an expansion of the amino acid repertoire of the genetic code, a de novo protein design as well.