bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor strategies and excitability changes of human hand motor area are dependent on different voluntary drives
Authors: Ni Zhen , Liang Nan , Takahashi Makoto , Yamashita Takamasa , Yahagi Susumu , Tanaka Yoshiyuki , Tsuji Toshio , Kasai Tatsuya
Published: June 2006

The present study examined whether there were different voluntary drives between intended and non‐intended muscle contractions. In experiment 1, during intended and non‐intended muscle contractions, electromyograms (EMGs) were recorded from the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) and extensor carpi radialis (ECR) muscles when force levels were varied from 10% to 50% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) in 10% MVC steps. In experiment 2, using transcranial magnetic stimulation, motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded from the FDI muscle when EMGs were varied from 10% to 40% EMGmax (EMG activities during MVC) in 10% EMGmax steps during intended and non‐intended muscle contractions. In experiment 3, at 10% MVC force level MEPs were recorded before and after practice. The results showed that, in the FDI muscle, EMGs during intended muscle contractions were larger than those during non‐intended ones at higher force levels (30–50% MVC). In the ECR muscle, reverse results were observed. At comparable EMG levels of the FDI muscle MEPs were the same during intended and non‐intended muscle contractions. After practice, MEPs during intended muscle contraction became larger than those during non‐intended at 10% MVC force level, while EMGs were the same between two muscle contractions. It is concluded that motor strategies and excitability changes of hand motor area are different during intended and non‐intended muscle contractions, and these differences are due to the different voluntary drives of intended and non‐intended. The present findings may contribute to the understanding of rehabilitation for patients suffering from damages of the central motor system.
The CRF1 receptor antagonist, antalarmin, reverses isolation‐induced up‐regulation of dopamine D2 receptors in the amygdala and nucleus accumbens of fawn‐hooded rats
Authors: Djouma Elvan , Card Katie , Lodge Daniel J. , Lawrence Andrew J.
Published: June 2006

We have previously shown that Fawn‐Hooded (FH) rats reared in isolation display an anxiety‐like phenotype and an enhanced acquisition of ethanol seeking behaviour. Furthermore, antalarmin, a selective corticotrophin‐releasing factor type 1 (CRF1) receptor antagonist, reduces isolation‐induced acquisition and maintenance of volitional ethanol consumption in this strain. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of CRF1 receptor antagonism by antalarmin to impact upon brain chemistry in both isolated and group‐housed FH rats. To achieve this, FH rats were reared, from weaning, in either group‐housed or isolation‐housed conditions and at 12 weeks of age were treated with antalarmin (20 mg/kg, i.p; n = 10 per group) or vehicle (1 mL/kg, i.p; n = 10 per group) bi‐daily for ten consecutive days before being killed and their brains removed for neurochemical analyses. Autoradiography and in situ hybridization was employed to analyse changes in the dopaminergic and neurotrophin systems. Isolation rearing increased dopamine D2 receptor density in the central amygdala and nucleus accumbens, an effect reversed by antalarmin treatment. Conversely, treatment with antalarmin had no impact upon the isolation‐induced alterations of the mRNA encoding brain‐derived neurotrophic factor or the TrkB receptor. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that multiple signalling systems are susceptible to modulation by social isolation and that antalarmin can reverse some, but not all, isolation‐induced alterations in brain chemistry.
Environmental manipulations early in development alter seizure activity, Ih and HCN1 protein expression later in life
Authors: Schridde Ulrich , Strauss Ulf , Bräuer Anja U. , Van Luijtelaar Gilles
Published: June 2006

Although absence epilepsy has a genetic origin, evidence from an animal model (Wistar Albino Glaxo/Rijswijk; WAG/Rij) suggests that seizures are sensitive to environmental manipulations. Here, we show that manipulations of the early rearing environment (neonatal handling, maternal deprivation) of WAG/Rij rats leads to a pronounced decrease in seizure activity later in life. Recent observations link seizure activity in WAG/Rij rats to the hyperpolarization‐activated cation current (Ih) in the somatosensory cortex, the site of seizure generation. Therefore, we investigated whether the alterations in seizure activity between rats reared differently might be correlated with changes in Ih and its channel subunits hyperpolarization‐activated cation channel HCN1, 2 and 4. Whole‐cell recordings from layer 5 pyramidal neurons, in situ hybridization and Western blot of the somatosensory cortex revealed an increase in Ih and HCN1 in neonatal handled and maternal deprived, compared to control rats. The increase was specific to HCN1 protein expression and did not involve HCN2/4 protein expression, or mRNA expression of any of the subunits (HCN1, 2, 4). Our findings provide the first evidence that relatively mild changes in the neonatal environment have a long‐term impact of absence seizures, Ih and HCN1, and suggest that an increase of Ih and HCN1 is associated with absence seizure reduction. Our findings shed new light on the role of Ih and HCN in brain functioning and development and demonstrate that genetically determined absence seizures are quite sensitive for early interventions.
Taurine elevates dopamine levels in the rat nucleus accumbens; antagonism by strychnine
Authors: Ericson Mia , Molander Anna , Stomberg Rosita , Söderpalm Bo
Published: June 2006

The mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system, projecting from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to the nucleus accumbens (nAcc), is involved in reward‐related behaviours and addictive processes, such as alcoholism and drug addiction. It was recently suggested that strychnine‐sensitive glycine receptors (GlyR) in the nAcc regulate both basal and ethanol‐induced mesolimbic DA activity via a neuronal loop involving endogenous activation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) in the VTA. However, as the nAcc appears to contain few glycine‐immunoreactive cell bodies or fibres, the question as to what may be the endogenous ligand for GlyRs in this brain region remains open. Here we have investigated whether the amino acid taurine could serve this purpose using in vivo microdialysis in awake, freely moving male Wistar rats. Local perfusion of taurine (1, 10 or 100 mm in the perfusate) increased DA levels in the nAcc. The taurine (10 mm)‐induced DA increase was, similarly to that previously observed after ethanol, completely blocked by (i) perfusion of the competitive GlyR antagonist strychnine in the nAcc, (ii) perfusion of the nAChR antagonist mecamylamine (100 µm) in the VTA, and (iii) systemic administration of the acetylcholine‐depleting drug vesamicol (0.4 mg/kg, i.p). The present results suggest that taurine may be an endogenous ligand for GlyRs in the nAcc and that the taurine‐induced elevation of DA levels in this area, similarly to that observed after local ethanol, is mediated via a neuronal loop involving endogenous activation of nAChRs in the VTA.
Addressing Sources of Collateral Damage in Four Mentoring Programs
Authors: Kilburg Gary M. , Hancock Tom
Published: June 2006

This article examines the types of recurring problems that can inhibit K-12 mentoring team relationships and intervention strategies to remedy those problems. The study examines 149 mentoring teams in four school districts over a 2-year period. Data collection was coordinated by the researcher who was also the trainer for the four school districts’ mentoring programs. Each year of the study, the survey and interview processes were repeated. From the analysis of data, the research team identified a common set of recurring problems during both years. Intervention strategies were then identified, introduced, and assessed. Results indicate the need for continual assessment of mentoring programs and mentoring team relationships, financial commitment from the school district, a rigorous mentor selection process, and providing in-service and workshop opportunities for problem solving.
Learning the Superintendency: Socialization, Negotiation, and Determination
Authors: Orr Margaret Terry
Published: June 2006

National attention to a possible superintendent shortage has created concern about the changing nature of the superintendency, particularly new challenges, and how superintendents are prepared. Through 23 focus group interviews, superintendents across the country described the challenges they faced when new, how these have changed in recent years, and the benefits and gaps of their leadership preparation. Through a grounded theory analysis and comparison with relevant adult learning and leadership development theories, this article argues that structured advanced leadership development experiences could improve superintendents’ leadership development and transition. The article recommends that these experiences be structured as a learning community that is experiential and intensively reflective.
The Context of Minority Disproportionality: Practitioner Perspectives on Special Education Referral
Authors: Skiba Russell , Simmons Ada , Ritter Shana , Kohler Kristin , Henderson Michelle , Wu Tony
Published: June 2006

Although there is extensive documentation of minority overrepresentation in special education, knowledge of the factors that create the context within which disproportionality occurs is limited. To gain an understanding of the local processes that may contribute to special education disproportionality, we interviewed 66 educators about their perspectives on urban education, special education, available and needed resources, and the specific topics of diversity and disproportionality. A number of clear themes emerged. Teachers and schools feel unprepared to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged students. Classroom behavior appears to be an especially challenging issue for many teachers, and cultural gaps and misunderstandings may intensify behavioral challenges. Special education is perceived by many teachers as the only resource available for helping students who are not succeeding. Finally, there was a surprising reticence among many respondents to discuss issues of race. These results paint a surprisingly complex picture of the factors that may cause and maintain minority disproportionality in special education. Together, they suggest that successful remediation efforts will avoid simplistic or linear solutions, increase resources to address learning and behavior problems in general education, and seek methods to use data on racial disparity as a stimulus toward reflection and action.
Work, health and welfare: new challenges1
Authors: Siegrist Johannes
Published: June 2006

Gainful employment is a core prerequisite of individual autonomy and the well‐being of a majority of adult people, preventing them from economic dependence on welfare transfer. Yet, the quality of work and employment acts as an important determinant of work ability and health. This contribution offers an extended framework for analysing quality of work by introducing a theoretical approach towards assessing an adverse psychosocial work environment. Two models are briefly described, the demand‐control and effort‐reward imbalance models, and selected empirical evidence demonstrating their health‐adverse effects is summarised. Importantly, poor quality of work in addition reinforces employees’ intentions to leave their job as soon as possible. Results from a recent survey in ten European countries support this observation. In view of these findings and their relevance for occupational health and the prevention of early retirement, policy implications aimed at improving quality of work are discussed.
Being well and doing well: on the importance of income for health
Authors: Subramanian S.V. , Kawachi Ichiro
Published: June 2006

Income is robustly associated with health status. Higher income is associated with lower mortality and morbidity, both cross‐nationally and within societies. This relationship is not just confined to low levels of income, but extends well beyond median levels of income in society with diminishing marginal returns to health status with additional increments in income. Drawing upon the absolute and relative interpretations of income and conceptualising them simul‐taneously at the individual and community level, we develop a typology of income–health relationships and discuss the distinctiveness of, and connections between, each type. We conclude that a multilevel conceptual and methodological framework is most appropriate to understand the income–health relationship.
Swedish and Lithuanian employed women's subjective well‐being
Authors: Daukantaite Daiva , Zukauskiene Rita
Published: June 2006

National differences in subjective well‐being (SWB) and relationships between SWB and socio‐demographic factors were investigated in samples of middle‐aged employed Swedish (N = 316) and Lithuanian (N = 308) women. The results showed that the Swedish women scored significantly higher on each SWB component than their counterparts in Lithuania, except in extrinsic job satisfaction. For the Swedish sample, the largest mean differences between different socio‐demographic groups were found for global life satisfaction between married/co‐habiting and single women and between women who had at least one child and those without children. For the Lithuanian sample, the largest differences in all SWB components were found between women characterised by high or low education/income.
The necessity of Britishness: ethno‐cultural roots of Australian nationalism*
Authors: McGREGOR RUSSELL
Published: June 2006

ABSTRACT.Until the last third of the twentieth century, Britishness figured prominently in the national identity of Australians. Many scholars of Australian nationalism have assumed an inherent antipathy between British and Australian solidarities; others have appreciated that there was a degree of mutuality between the two; few have explained why. This article offers such an explanation. It focuses on the crucial nation‐building period twenty years on either side of the federation of the Australian colonies in 1901. Drawing on ethno‐symbolist approaches to nationalism, it argues that Britishness provided the necessary ethno‐cultural foundations for Australian nationhood, the only available repertoire of myth and symbol that could fulfil the nationalist aspiration for unity. Yet Britishness in the antipodes was significantly different to that of the British Isles, as were the civic/territorial components of Australian conceptions of nationhood, giving rise to a distinctive British‐Australian composite nationalism.
The radical scavenger CR‐6 protects SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells from oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis: effect on survival pathways
Authors: Sanvicens Nuria , Gómez‐Vicente Violeta , Messeguer Angel , Cotter Thomas G.
Published: June 2006

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress have long been linked to cell death of neurons in many neurodegenerative conditions. However, the exact molecular mechanisms triggered by oxidative stress in neurodegeneration are at present unclear. In the current work we have used the human neuroblastoma SH‐SY5Y cell line as a model for studying the molecular events occurring after inducing apoptosis with H2O2. We show that treatment of SH‐SY5Y cells with H2O2 up‐regulates survival pathways during early stages of apoptosis. Subsequently, the decline of anti‐apoptotic protein levels leads to the activation of the calcium‐dependent proteases calpains and the cysteine proteases caspases. Additionally, we demonstrate that CR‐6 (3,4‐dihydro‐6‐hydroxy‐7‐methoxy‐2,2‐dimethyl‐1(2H)‐benzopyran) acts as a scavenger of ROS and prevents apoptosis by enhancing and prolonging up‐regulation of survival pathways. Furthermore, we show that pre‐treatment of SH‐SY5Y cells with a cocktail containing CR‐6, the pan‐caspase inhibitor zVAD‐fmk (zVal‐Ala‐Asp‐fluoro‐methylketone) and the calpain inhibitor SJA6017 confers almost total protection against apoptosis. In summary, the present work characterizes the molecular mechanisms involved in oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis in SH‐SY5Y cells. Our findings highlight the relevance of CR‐6, alone or in combination with other drugs, as potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Chaperone protein 14‐3‐3 and protein kinase A increase the relative abundance of low agonist sensitivity human α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in Xenopus oocytes
Authors: Exley Richard , Moroni Mirko , Sasdelli Federica , Houlihan Lee M. , Lukas Ronald J. , Sher Emanuele , Zwart Ruud , Bermudez Isabel
Published: June 2006

α4 and β2 nicotinic acetylcholine (nACh) receptor subunits expressed heterologously in Xenopus oocytes assemble into a mixture of receptors with high and low agonist sensitivity whose relative abundance is influenced by the heteropentamer subunit ratio. We have found that inhibition of protein kinase A by KT5720 decreased maximal [3H]cytisine binding and acetylcholine (ACh)‐induced current responses, and increased the relative proportion of α4β2 receptors with high agonist sensitivity. Mutation of serine 467, a putative protein kinase A substrate in a chaperone protein binding motif within the large cytoplasmic domain of the α4 subunit, to alanine or asparate decreased or increased, respectively, maximal [3H]cytisine binding and ACh response amplitude. Expression of α4S467A mutant subunits decreased steady levels of α4 and the relative proportion of α4β2 receptors with low agonist sensitivity, whilst expression of α4S467D increased steady levels of α4 and α4β2 receptors with low agonist sensitivity. Difopein, an inhibitor of chaperone 14‐3‐3 proteins, decreased [3H]cytisine binding and ACh responses and increased the proportion of α4β2 with high sensitivity to activation by ACh. Thus, post‐translational modification affecting steady‐state levels of α4 subunits provides a possible means for physiologically relevant, chaperone‐mediated variation in the relative proportion of high and low agonist sensitivity α4β2 nACh receptors.
Glutamate‐induced octamer DNA binding and transcriptional control in cultured radial glia cells
Authors: López‐Bayghen Esther , Cruz‐Solís Irma , Corona Matilde , López‐Colomé Ana María , Ortega Arturo
Published: June 2006

Glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the vertebrate brain, is critically involved in gene expression regulation in neurons and in glia cells. Neuron–glia interactions provide the framework for synaptic plasticity. Retinal and cerebellar radial glia cells surround glutamatergic excitatory synapses and sense synaptic activity through glutamate receptors expressed in their membranes. Several glutamate‐dependent membrane to nuclei signaling cascades have been described in these cells. Octamer DNA binding factors, namely Oct‐1 and Oct‐2 recognize similar DNA sequences on regulatory regions, but their final transcriptional effect depends on several factors. By these means, different responses can be achieved in different cell types. Here, we describe a comparison between the glutamate‐induced DNA binding of octamer factors and their functional activities in two important types of radial glia, retinal Müller and cerebellar Bergmann glial cells. While Oct‐1 is expressed in both cell types and in both glutamate treatments results in an increase in Oct‐1 DNA binding, this complex is capable of transactivating a reporter gene only in Müller glia cells. In contrast, Oct‐2 expression is restricted to Bergmann glia cells in which glutamate treatment results in an augmentation of Oct‐2 DNA binding complexes and the repression of kainate binding protein gene transcription. Our present findings demonstrate a differential role for Oct‐1 and Oct‐2 transcription factors in glial glutamate signaling, and further strengthen the notion of an important role for glial cells in glutamatergic transactions in the central nervous system.
The LGI1/Epitempin gene encodes two protein isoforms differentially expressed in human brain
Authors: Furlan Sandra , Roncaroli Federico , Forner Francesca , Vitiello Libero , Calabria Elisa , Piquer‐Sirerol Salomé , Valle Giorgio , Perez‐Tur Jordi , Michelucci Roberto , Nobile Carlo
Published: June 2006

The leucine‐rich, glioma inactivated 1 (LGI1)/Epitempin gene has been linked to two phenotypes as different as gliomagenesis and autosomal dominant lateral temporal epilepsy. Its function and the biochemical features of the encoded protein are unknown. We characterized the LGI1/Epitempin protein product by western blot analysis of mouse and human brain tissues. Two proteins of about 60 and 65 kDa were detected by an anti‐LGI1 antibody within the expected molecular mass range. The two proteins appeared to reside in different subcellular compartments, as they were fractionated by differential centrifugation. The specificity of both polypeptides was validated by cell transfection assay and mass spectrometry analysis. Immunoblot analysis of protein distribution in various zones of the human brain revealed variable amounts of both proteins. Notably, these proteins were more abundant in the temporal neocortex than in the hippocampus, the difference in abundance of the 65‐kDa product being particularly pronounced. These results suggest that the two protein isoforms encoded by LGI1/Epitempin are differentially expressed in the human brain, and that higher expression levels of these proteins in the lateral temporal cortex may underlie the susceptibility of this brain region to the epileptogenic effects of LGI1/Epitempin mutations.
RS‐α‐lipoic acid protects cholinergic cells against sodium nitroprusside and amyloid‐β neurotoxicity through restoration of acetyl‐CoA level
Authors: Bielarczyk Hanna , Gul Sylwia , Ronowska Anna , Bizon‐Zygmanska Dorota , Pawelczyk Tadeusz , Szutowicz Andrzej
Published: June 2006

The work presented here verifies the hypothesis that RS‐α‐lipoic acid may exert its cholinoprotective and cholinotrophic activities through the maintenance of appropriate levels of acetyl‐CoA in mitochondrial and cytoplasmic compartments of cholinergic neurons. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and amyloid‐β decreased pyruvate dehydrogenase, choline acetyltransferase activities, acetyl‐CoA content in mitochondria and cytoplasm, as well as increased fraction of non‐viable, trypan blue positive cells in cultured differentiated cholinergic SN56 neuroblastoma cells. Lipoic acid totally reversed toxin‐evoked suppression of choline acetyltrasferase and pyruvate dehydrogenase activities, as well as mitochondrial and cytoplasmic acetyl‐CoA levels, and partially attenuated increase of cell mortality. Significant negative correlations were found between enzyme activities, acetyl‐CoA levels and cell mortality in different neurotoxic and neuroprotective conditions employed here. The level of cytoplamic acetyl‐CoA correlated with mitochondrial acetyl‐CoA, whereas choline acetyltransferase activity followed shifts in cytoplasmic acetyl‐CoA. Thus, we conclude that, in cholinergic neurons, particular elements of the pyruvate–acetyl‐CoA–acetylcholine pathway form a functional unit responding uniformly to nerotoxic and neuroprotectory conditions.
Muscarinic cationic current in gastrointestinal smooth muscles: signal transduction and role in contraction
Authors: Unno T. , Matsuyama H. , Okamoto H. , Sakamoto T. , Yamamoto M. , Tanahashi Y. , Yan H.‐D. , Komori S.
Published: June 2006

1 The muscarinic receptor plays a key role in the parasympathetic nervous control of various peripheral tissues including gastrointestinal tract. The neurotransmitter acetylcholine, via activating muscarinic receptors that exist in smooth muscle, produces its contraction.

2 There is the opening of cationic channels as an underlying mechanism. The opening of cationic channels results in influxes of Ca2+via the channels into the cell and also via voltage‐dependent Ca2+channels which secondarily opened in response to the depolarization, providing an amount of Ca2+for activation of the contractile proteins.

3 Electrophysiological and pharmacological studies have shown that the cationic channels as well as muscarinic receptors exist in many visceral smooth muscle cells. However, the activation mechanisms of the cationic channels are still unclear.

4 In this article, we summarize the current knowledge of the muscarinic receptor‐operated cationic channels, focusing on the receptor subtype, G protein and other signalling molecules that are involved in activation of these channels and on the molecular characterisitics of the channel. This will improve strategies aimed at developing new selective pharmacological agents and understanding the activation mechanism and functions of these channels in physiological systems.
Muscarinic cholinoceptor activation modulates DNA synthesis and CD40 expression in fibroblast cells
Authors: Casanova M. , Furlán C. , Sterin‐Borda L. , Borda E. S.
Published: June 2006

1 The aim of the present work was to examine the role of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChR) on DNA synthesis and CD40 expression in human fibroblast cells. Neonatal human skin fibroblast cultures were stimulated with carbachol in presence or absence of specific antagonists and the following parameters were measured: identification of mAChR subtypes, DNA synthesis, inositol phosphates (InsP) production and CD40 expression.

2 Human fibroblasts express mAChR with Kd 0.47 ± 0.11 nm and Bmax 236 ± 22 fmol mg protein−1. Carbachol stimulates DNA synthesis, InsP and the expression of CD40. All these effects were inhibited by atropine, mustard hydrochloride (4‐DAMP) and pirenzepine but not by AF‐DX 116 and tropicamide, indicating that M3 and M1 mAChR are implicated in carbachol action. The relative Ki of the antagonists obtained by competition binding assay was in parallel to the relative potency for blocking both carbachol‐stimulated InsP accumulation and DNA synthesis.

3 The intracellular pathway leading to carbachol‐induced biological effects involved phospholipase C and calcium/calmodulin, as U‐73122 and trifluoroperazine blocked carbachol effects, respectively. Calphostin C, a protein kinase C inhibitor, had no effect, indicating that this enzyme does not participate in the system.

4 These results may contribute to a better understanding of the modulatory role of the parasympathetic muscarinic system on normal human fibroblast function.
Potential and Pitfalls in Establishing the Provenance of Earth‐Related Samples in Forensic Investigations
Authors: Rawlins Barry G. , Kemp Simon J. , Hodgkinson Emily H. , Riding James B. , Vane Christopher H. , Poulton Catherine , Freeborough Katy
Published: June 2006

ABSTRACT: Earth scientists are often asked to establish or constrain the likely provenance of very small quantities of earth‐related material as part of a forensic investigation. We tested the independent and collective interpretations of four experts with differing analytical skills in the prediction of sample provenance for three samples from different environmental settings. The methods used were X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, the assessment of pollen assemblages, and structural characterization of organic matter at the molecular level. Independent interpretations were less accurate than those where multiple techniques were combined. Collective interpretation was very effective in the assessment of provenance for two of the three sites where the mineralogy and plant communities were distinctive. At the other site, although the mineralogical analysis correctly identified the Triassic mudstone soil parent material, Carboniferous spores from domestic coal were initially interpreted as deriving directly from bedrock. Such an interpretation could be a common pitfall owing to anthropogenic redistribution of material such as coal.
The Association of Alcohol‐Induced Blackouts and Grayouts to Blood Alcohol Concentrations
Authors: Perry Paul J. , Argo Tami R. , Barnett Mitchell J. , Liesveld Jill L. , Liskow Barry , Hernan Jillian M. , Trnka Michael G. , Brabson Mary A.
Published: June 2006

ABSTRACT: The primary aim of this study was to investigate the association between measured blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and the presence and degree of amnesia (no amnesia, grayout, or blackout) in actively drinking subjects. A secondary aim was to determine potential factors other than BAC that contribute to the alcohol‐induced memory loss. An interview questionnaire was administered to subjects regarding a recent alcohol associated arrest with a documented BAC greater than 0.08 g/dL for either public intoxication, driving under the influence, or under age drinking was administered. Demographic variables collected included drinking history, family history of alcoholism, presence of previous alcohol‐related memory loss during a drinking episode, and drinking behavior during the episode. Memory of the drinking episode was evaluated to determine if either an alcohol‐induced grayout (partial anterograde amnesia) or blackout (complete anterograde amnesia) occurred. Differences in (1) mean total number of drinks ingested before arrest, (2) gulping of drinks, and (3) BAC at arrest were found for those having blackouts compared with no amnesia; while differences in drinking more than planned were found between the no amnesia and grayout groups. A strong linear relationship between BAC and predicted probability of memory loss, particularly for blackouts was obvious. This finding clinically concludes that subjects with BAC of 310 g/dL or greater have a 0.50 or greater probability of having an alcoholic blackout.
Differentiating Writing Inks Using Direct Analysis in Real Time Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jones Roger W. , Cody Robert B. , McClelland John F.
Published: June 2006

ABSTRACT: Writing ink analysis is used in establishing document authenticity and the sources and relative ages of written entries. Most analytical methods require removing samples or visibly altering the document. Nondestructive, in situ analysis of writing inks on paper without visible alteration is possible using mass spectrometry with a new ion source called Direct Analysis in Real Time. Forty‐three different black and blue ballpoint, black fluid, and black gel inks were examined. Both dyes and persistent but thermally labile components of the inks contribute to the mass spectra, principally as protonated molecules [M+H]+. Numerous ink components were identified from the spectra. The spectra were placed in a searchable library, which was then challenged with two spectra from each of the 43 inks. The best match for each of the challenge spectra was correct for all but one ink, which matched with a very similar ink by the same manufacturer.
Egg size differentiation among sympatric demes of brown trout: possible effects of density‐dependent interactions among fry
Authors: Gregersen F. , Haugen T. O. , Larsen Ø. N.
Published: June 2006

Abstract – This study investigates differentiation in egg size among five sympatric brown trout (Salmo trutta(L.)) demes. We explore a hypothesis predicting high density‐dependent interactions among juveniles to favour large eggs by sampling closely located (<100 m) deme pairs with low and high fry abundances. Amancovamodel fitted the egg size versus egg number relationship as a function of large‐scale spatial habitat heterogeneity (basin) and maternal phenotype revealed that demes have significantly different egg size versus fecundity relationships and that the differentiation is mainly due to interdeme variation in egg size. Fry density was significantly and positively associated with egg size and apost‐hoctest indicated egg size to be significantly greater in high‐density than low‐density tributaries. The data is consistent with the density‐dependent hypothesis and suggest that reproductive investment can diverge over small geographic distances, potentially in response to environments favouring greater investment in offspring quality.
Effect of prolonged exercise on arterial oxygen saturation in athletes susceptible to exercise‐induced hypoxemia
Authors: Stewart I. B. , Pickering R. L.
Published: June 2006

This study examined the effect of prolonged endurance exercise on the development of exercise‐induced hypoxemia (EIH) in athletes who had previously displayed EIH during an incremental maximal exercise test. Five male and three female endurance‐trained athletes participated. Susceptibility to EIH was confirmed through a maximal incremental exercise test and defined as a reduction in the saturation of arterial oxygen (SpO2) of ≥4% from rest. Sixty minutes of running was conducted, on a separate day, at an oxygen consumption corresponding to 95% of ventilatory threshold. Immediately following the 60 min exercise bout, athletes commenced a time trial to exhaustion at 95% maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). The reduction in SpO2 was significantly greater during the maximal incremental test, than during the 60 min, or time trial to exhaustion (−8.8±1.4%, −3.3±1.1%, and −4.1±2.3%, P<0.05, respectively). The degree of desaturation during the 60 min was significantly related to the relative intensity of exercise at 95% ventilatory threshold (adjusted r2=0.54, P=0.02). In conclusion, athletes who did not exercise at greater than 73% VO2max during 60 min of endurance exercise did not display EIH, despite being previously susceptible during an incremental maximal test.
Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis Gougerot‐Carteaud successfully treated with minocycline
Authors: Löwenstein Melitta , Metzler Gisela , Röcken Martin , Schaller Martin
Published: June 2006

Confluent and reticulated papillomatosis is a rare dermatosis of unknown etiology mostly affecting young males and females most common in adolescence. The eruption consists of confluent, flat, brown papules forming a pigmented reticulated pattern. It occurs primarily in the intermammary and epigastric regions but may spread to the axillae. A 27‐yearold patient with typical clinical and histologic features of confluent and reticulated papillomatosis responded well to oral minocycline.
Pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine β-L-Nucleosides Containing 7-Deazaadenine, 2-Amino-7-deazaadenine, 7-Deazaguanine, 7-Deazaisoguanine, and 7-Deazaxanthine
Authors: Seela Frank , Peng Xiaohua
Published: June 2006

The synthesis and properties of 7-deazapurine β-L-nucleosides are described. The stereoselective glycosylation of the anions of 2-amino-6-chloro-7-deazapurines 9a, 9b or 6-chloro-7-deazapurines 13a, 13d with 3,5-di-O-(4-methylbenzoyl)-2-deoxy-α-L-erythro-pentofuranosyl chloride (8) furnished the β-L-2'-deoxyribonucleosides 1-4. The synthesis of β-L-ribonucleosides 5-7 used the Silyl-Hilbert-Johnson reaction (TMSOTf/BSA/MeCN) performed under Vorbrüggen conditions for the glycosylation of 7-halogenated 6-chloro-2-pivalamido-7-deazapurines 17b-17d with 1-O-acetyl-2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-L-ribofuranose (16). Single-crystal X-ray analyses were performed and CD spectra were measured to assign the configuration. The antiviral activity against selected DNA and RNA viruses is reported.
REPRESENTATION THEOREM OF INTERVAL-VALUED FUZZY SET
Authors: ZENG WENYI , SHI YU , LI HONGXING
Published: June 2006

In this paper, we introduce the concept of interval-valued nested set on the universal set X, propose two representation theorems and equivalent classification theorem of interval-valued fuzzy set. These works can be used in setting up the basic theory of interval-valued fuzzy set.
ARITHMETICAL OPERATIONS OF EXPONENTIAL FUZZY NUMBERS USING THE FUNCTION PRINCIPLE
Authors: CHEN SHAN-HUO , WANG CHIEN-CHUNG , CHANG SHU MAN
Published: June 2006

Fuzzy numbers with exponential membership function are quite common in real world cases. In this paper, we applied Graded Mean Integration Representation Method to compute the representation of exponential fuzzy numbers. Then the Function Principle is applied to generate the arithmetical operations of exponential fuzzy numbers. By the way, some properties of operation under the Function Principle are proved. Finally, an application of the lifetime of the lamps of projectors is proposed.
Fertility Regulation in Male Rats by Implemented Tetraazamacrocyclic Compounds of Iron(II): Synthetic, Spectroscopic, and Applied Aspects with Toxicological Screening
Authors: Chaudhary Ashu , Singh Ran Vir
Published: June 2006

Antifertility and histopathological investigations were carried out on reproductive organs of male albino rats induced by tetraazamacrocyclic complexes of iron(II). The complexes were synthesized by the template condensation of 1,2‐diaminoethane, 1,3‐diaminopropane with succinic acid and phthalic acid in 2 : 2 molar ratios which are abbreviated as [Fe(TAMLn)OAc] (n = 1 or 2 and TAMLn represents tetraazamacrocyclic ligand). The complexes have been characterized by elemental analysis, conductivity measurements, IR, and electronic spectra.
Synthesis, Spectral, and Biological Properties of Copper(II) Complexes of Thiosemicarbazones of Schiff Bases Derived from 4‐Aminoantipyrine and Aromatic Aldehydes
Authors: Agarwal Ram K. , Singh Lakshman , Sharma Deepak Kumar
Published: June 2006

We have synthesized a novel series of Schiff bases by condensation
of 4‐aminoantipyrine and various aromatic aldehydes followed by
reaction with thiosemicarbazide. These thiosemicarbazones are
potential ligands toward transition metal ions. The reaction of
copper(II) salts with 4[N‐(benzalidene)amino]antipyrinethiosemicarbazone (BAAPTS),
4[N‐(4′‐methoxybenzalidene) amino] antipyrinethiosemicarbozone
(MBAAPTS), 4[N‐(4′‐dimethylamino benzalidene) amino]
antipyrinethiosemicarbazone (DABAAPTS), and 4[N‐(cinnamalidene)
amino] antipyrinethiosemicarbazone (CAAPTS) resulted in the
formation of solid complexes with the general composition
CuX2 · (H2O)(L)(X = Cl, Br, NO3, NCS, or CH3COO; L = BAAPTS, MBAAPTS, DABAAPTS, or CAAPTS). These complexes were characterized
through elemental analysis, molecular weight, electrical
conductance, infrared, electronic spectra, and magnetic
susceptibilities at room temperature. Copper(II) complexes with
BAAPTS and MBAAPTS were screened for antibacterial and antifungal
properties and have exhibited potential activity. Thermal
stabilities of two representative complexes were also investigated.
Stability analysis of stochastic Ricker population model
Authors: Hritonenko Natali , Rodkina Alexandra , Yatsenko Yuri
Published: June 2006

A stochastic generalization of the Ricker discrete population
model is studied under the assumption that noise impacts the
population reproduction rate. The obtained results demonstrate
that the demographic‐type stochastic noise increases the risk of
the population extinction. In particular, the paper establishes
conditions on the noise intensity under which the population will
extinct even if the corresponding population with no noise
survives.
Coincidence point and invariant approximation for mappings satisfying generalized weak contractive condition
Authors: Beg Ismat , Abbas Mujahid
Published: June 2006

We prove the existence of coincidence point and common fixed point for mappings satisfying generalized weak contractive condition. As an application, related results on invariant approximation are derived. Our results generalize various known results in the literature.
Electrochemical nano‐coating processes in solar energy systems
Authors: Kadırgan F.
Published: June 2006

The efficiencies of electrochemically prepared nano‐thick CdS and black nickel coatings were investigated as a function of their preparation conditions in the application field of energy; such as, solar‐electricity conversion, solar cells, and solar‐thermal conversion, spectrally selective solar collectors.
A structural model with interventions for new Zealand sawn timber production
Authors: Luo Dongwen , Jones Geoffrey , Dennis Judith
Published: June 2006

Timber production in New Zealand was privatized in 1987. We examine
the effects of this change on the level of New Zealand sawn timber production,
and changes in the seasonal pattern, using a state-space model with intervention
variables. We describe the formulation and estimation of the state-space model,
and show how it can be used to examine both the structural changes around the
time of privatization and the gradually evolving seasonal pattern in production. We
also show how the model can be used to forecast future production.
Stability of retrial queues with versatile retrial policy
Authors: Kernane Tewfik , Aïssani Amar
Published: June 2006

We consider in this paper the stability of retrial queues with a
versatile retrial policy. We obtain sufficient conditions for the
stability by the strong coupling convergence to a stationary
ergodic regime for various models of retrial queues including a
model with two types of customers, a model with breakdowns of the
server, a model with negative customers, and a model with batch
arrivals. For all the models considered we assume that the
service times are general stationary ergodic and interarrival
and retrial times are i.i.d. sequences exponentially
distributed. For the model with unreliable server we also assume
that the repair times are stationary and ergodic and the
occurrences of breakdowns follow a Poisson process.
Mechanisms of Neuronal Death in Synucleinopathy
Authors: Takeda Atsushi , Hasegawa Takafumi , Matsuzaki-Kobayashi Michiko , Sugeno Naoto , Kikuchi Akio , Itoyama Yasuto , Furukawa Katsutoshi
Published: June 2006

α‐synuclein is a key molecule in the pathogenesis of synucleinopathy including Parkinson′s disease and multiple system atrophy. In this mini‐review, we mainly focus on recent data obtained from cellular models of synucleinopathy and discuss the possible mechanisms of neurodegeneration. Recent progress suggests that the aggregate formation of α‐synuclein is cytoprotective and that its precursor oligomer (protofibril) may be cytotoxic. The catechol‐derived quinones are the candidate molecules that facilitate the oligomer formation of α‐synuclein. Furthermore, the cellular membranes are shown to be the primary targets injured by mutant α‐synucleins, and the mitochondrial dysfunction seems to be an initial step in the neuronal death.
Noncoding RNAs in Cancer Medicine
Authors: Cerchia Laura , De Franciscis Vittorio
Published: June 2006

Several signalling proteins involved in cell growth and differentiation represent attractive candidate targets for cancer diagnosis and/or therapy since they can act as oncogenes. Because of their high specificity and low immunogeneicity, using artificial small noncoding RNA (ncRNAs) as therapeutics has recently become a highly promising and rapidly expanding field of interest. Indeed, ncRNAs may either interfere with RNA transcription, stability, translation or directly hamper the function of the targets by binding to their surface. The recent finding that the expression of several genes is under the control of small single‐stranded regulatory RNAs, including miRNAs, makes these genes as appropriate targets for ncRNA gene silencing. Furthermore, another class of small ncRNA, aptamers, act as high‐affinity ligands and potential antagonists of disease‐associated proteins. We will review here the recent and innovative methods that have been developed and the possible applications of ncRNAs as inhibitors or tracers in cancer medicine.
Oxidative Damage to RNA in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Nunomura Akihiko , Honda Kazuhiro , Takeda Atsushi , Hirai Keisuke , Zhu Xiongwei , Smith Mark A. , Perry George
Published: June 2006

Since 1999, oxidative damage to RNA molecules has been described
in several neurological diseases including Alzheimer′s
disease, Parkinson′s disease, Down syndrome, dementia
with Lewy bodies, prion disease, subacute sclerosing
panencephalitis, and xeroderma pigmentosum. An early involvement
of RNA oxidation of vulnerable neuronal population in the
neurodegenerative diseases has been demonstrated, which is
strongly supported by a recent observation of increased RNA
oxidation in brains of subjects with mild cognitive impairment.
Until recently, little is known about consequences and cellular
handling of the RNA damage. However, increasing body of evidence
suggests detrimental effects of the RNA damage in protein
synthesis and the existence of several coping mechanisms including
direct repair and avoiding the incorporation of the damaged
ribonucleotides into translational machinery. Further
investigations toward understanding of the consequences and
cellular handling mechanisms of the oxidative RNA damage may
provide significant insights into the pathogenesis and therapeutic
strategies of the neurodegenerative diseases.
RNA‐Mediated Gene Silencing in Hematopoietic Cells
Authors: Venturini Letizia , Eder Matthias , Scherr Michaela
Published: June 2006

In the past few years, the discovery of RNA‐mediated gene
silencing mechanisms, like RNA interference (RNAi), has
revolutionized our understanding of eukaryotic gene expression.
These mechanisms are activated by double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) and
mediate gene silencing either by inducing the sequence‐specific
degradation of complementary mRNA or by inhibiting mRNA
translation. RNAi now provides a powerful experimental tool to
elucidate gene function in vitro and in vivo, thereby opening new
exciting perspectives in the fields of molecular analysis and
eventually therapy of several diseases such as infections and
cancer. In hematology, numerous studies have described the
successful application of RNAi to better define the role of
oncogenic fusion proteins in leukemogenesis and to explore
therapeutic approaches in hematological malignancies. In this
review, we highlight recent advances and caveats relating to the
application of this powerful new methodology to hematopoiesis.
Dynamical interaction of an elastic system and a vibro‐impact absorber
Authors: Mikhlin Yuri V. , Reshetnikova S. N.
Published: June 2006

The nonlinear two‐degree‐of‐freedom system under consideration consists of the linear oscillator with a relatively big mass, which is an approximation of some continuous elastic system, and of the vibro‐impact oscillator with a relatively small mass, which is an absorber of the linear system vibrations. Analysis of nonlinear normal vibration modes shows that a stable localized vibration mode, which provides the vibration regime appropriate for the elastic vibration absorption, exists in a large region of the system parameters. In this regime, amplitudes of vibrations of the linear system are small, simultaneously vibrations of the absorber are significant.
Stability and stabilization of continuous descriptor systems: An LMI approach
Authors: Chaabane M. , Bachelier O. , Souissi M. , Mehdi D.
Published: June 2006

This paper deals with the problems of robust stability and stabilization for uncertain continuous descriptor systems. We propose a new necessary and sufficient condition in terms of a strict linear matrix inequality (LMI) for a nominal continuous descriptor system to be admissible (stable, regular, and impulse‐free). Based on this, the state‐feedback admissibility problem is solved and the solution is extended to the case of uncertain descriptor systems. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the results.
An overview of constitutive models for shape memory alloys
Authors: Paiva Alberto , Savi Marcelo Amorim
Published: June 2006

The remarkable properties of shape memory alloys have facilitated their applications in many areas of technology. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of thermomechanical behavior of these alloys, discussing the main constitutive models for their mathematical description. Metallurgical features and engineering applications are addressed as an introduction. Afterwards, five phenomenological theories are presented. In general, these models capture the general thermomechanical behavior of shape memory alloys, characterized by pseudoelasticity, shape memory effect, phase transformation phenomenon due to temperature variation, and internal subloops due to incomplete phase transformations.