bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrical activity of deep traps in high resistivity CdTe: Spectroscopic characterization
Authors: Fraboni B. , Cavalcoli D. , Cavallini A. , Fochuk P.
Published: April 2009

The electrical compensation processes of high resistivity CdTe is controlled by deep levels. We have characterized the electrical activity of deep traps by means of three different and complementary spectroscopic methods: photoinduced current transient spectroscopy, surface photovoltage spectroscopy, and space charge limited current analyses. The aim is twofold: to achieve a thorough characterization of the deep trap properties and to assess the potentiality and limitations of the three experimental techniques by a cross correlation of the results obtained with each one of them. We have obtained a direct quantitative estimate of the major deep trap concentration, and we have assessed the sensitivity limit in deep-level detection for surface photovoltage spectroscopy.
Josephson current in nanofabricated V/Cu/V mesoscopic junctions
Authors: García César Pascual , Giazotto Francesco
Published: April 2009

We report the fabrication of planar V/Cu/V mesoscopic Josephson weak links of different size and the analysis of their low-temperature behavior. The shorter junctions exhibit critical currents of several tens of microamperes at 350 mK, while Josephson coupling persists up to ∼2.7 K. Good agreement is obtained by comparing the measured switching currents to a model which holds in the diffusive regime. Our results demonstrate that V is an excellent candidate for the implementation of superconducting nanodevices operating at a few kelvins.
We age because we grow
Authors: Kaplan Hillard S. , Robson Arthur J.
Published: April 2009

Why do we age? Since ageing is a near-universal feature of complex organisms, a convincing theory must provide a robust evolutionary explanation for its ubiquity. This theory should be compatible with the physiological evidence that ageing is largely due to deterioration, which is, in principle, reversible through repair. Moreover, this theory should also explain why natural selection has favoured organisms that first improve with age (mortality rates decrease) and then deteriorate with age (mortality rates rise). We present a candidate for such a theory of life history, applied initially to a species with determinate growth. The model features both the quantity and the quality of somatic capital, where it is optimal to initially build up quantity, but to allow quality to deteriorate. The main theoretical result of the paper is that a life history where mortality decreases early in life and then increases late in life is evolutionarily optimal. In order to apply the model to humans, in particular, we include a budget constraint to allow intergenerational transfers. The resultant theory then accounts for all our basic demographic characteristics, including menopause with extended survival after reproduction has ceased.
High-pressure small-angle neutron scattering studies of glucose isomerase conformation in solution
Authors: Banachowicz Ewa , Kozak Maciej , Patkowski Adam , Meier Gerhard , Kohlbrecher Joachim
Published: April 2009

Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) of solutions of glucose/xylose isomerase fromStreptomyces rubiginosuswas measured as a function of pressure. It is shown that the structure of the enzyme in solution as seen by SANS is practically the same as that in the crystal and does not change with pressure up to 150 MPa. This reflects the unusually high structural stability of this material, which makes it extremely interesting to use as a secondary standard for pressure-dependent SANS experiments. This lack of pressure dependence of the SANS data also indicates that any possible change in hydration of the protein induced by pressure is not visible in the SANS curves. An appropriate correction procedure must be used for the SANS data in order to account for the distortion of the intensity curve due to hard-sphere and electrostatic interactions. After this correction, the isomerase can be readily used as a secondary standard for SANS measurements.
Diet affects male gonad maturation, female fecundity, and larval development in the granivorous ground beetleAnisodactylus punctatipennis
Authors: SASAKAWA KÔJI
Published: April 2009

Abstract1. Granivory is a specialised food habit in the Carabidae and is considered to have evolved from ancestral carnivory. Despite recent investigations, the mechanisms underlying this peculiar feeding shift have not been sufficiently elucidated. In particular, no studies have examined the effects of diet composition on male reproductive traits.

2. This study examined male gonad maturation, female fecundity, and larval development under different diets (insect larvae, mixed seeds, and insect larvae + mixed seeds) forAnisodactylus punctatipennis(Coleoptera: Carabidae).

3. Whereas sperm‐bundle length, the durations of larval stages, and adult weight did not differ among diets, the weights of seminal substance‐producing organs, fecundity, and larval survival were higher with diets containing seeds compared to the pure‐animal diet. These findings provide the first conclusive evidence for granivory inAnisodactylus.

4. This study is the first that demonstrates the effects of diet on male reproductive traits in a granivorous carabid. The results were consistent with similar observations for fecundity and larval performance in this and other studies. Thus, in addition to the female and larval traits, the dietary effects on male reproductive traits may also have played an important role in the evolution of granivory in the Carabidae.
Cultured mammary epithelial monolayers (BME‐UV) express functional organic anion and cation transporters
Authors: AL‐BATAINEH M. M. , Van Der MERWE D. , SCHULTZ B. D. , GEHRING R.
Published: April 2009

There is ongoing concern about the potential adverse effects of xenobiotic residues in cows’ milk to the human consumer. Although drugs that are intentionally administered to lactating dairy cattle are rigorously regulated to prevent harmful residues, there are numerous other potential sources of exposure that are not as easily controlled. For example, cattle may be exposed to mycotoxins, pesticides and/or persistent organic pollutants through feed, water and inhalation of polluted air. Accurate estimates of the rate and extent of excretion of these compounds into milk is important to assess the risk of exposure through cows’ milk. In the present study, the expression of carrier mediated transport processes in cultured monolayers of an immortalized bovine mammary epithelial cell line (BME‐UV) was determined using a flow‐through diffusion cell system, selective substrates and inhibitors of organic cation transporters (OCT) and organic anion transporters (OAT). The basal‐to‐apical (BL‐to‐Ap) flux of tetraethylammonium and estrone sulfate significantly exceeded their flux in the opposite direction. The addition of selective inhibitors to the donor compartment significantly decreased the BL‐to‐Ap flux of either selective substrate. These results suggest that both OCT and OAT are functionally expressed by BME‐UV cells.
Corporate Charitable Giving, Multinational Companies and Countries of Concern
Authors: Brammer Stephen J. , Pavelin Stephen , Porter Lynda A.
Published: April 2009

abstract

This paper investigates the degree to which corporate charitable giving is influenced by a firm's internationalization and/or whether it has operations in one or more countries of concern. For a sample of large UK firms, we find evidence of a positive effect not for internationalization per se, but only for a presence in particular countries. In this connection, the salient country characteristic is a lack of political rights and/or civil liberties, and the positive impact on charitable giving is restricted to a presence in only those countries that are, according to Freedom House indicators, most lacking in this respect. Furthermore, our study highlights a mode of corporate response to stakeholder concerns and pressures – offsetting – that is qualitatively different from those suggested in earlier conceptual literatures.
Why did We Get the End of the Cold War Wrong?
Authors: Cox Michael
Published: April 2009

In many important ways the history of modern international relations (IR) begins at the point when the international order collapses in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Indeed, the withering of communism in Central and Eastern Europe followed by the break–up of the USSR two years later, posed what many in the field saw then (and continue to regard now) as a series of problems to which the hitherto dominant paradigm in IR—realism—had no ready or easy answers. This article neither seeks to defend nor criticize realism. Rather it shifts the debate about the end of the cold war—and why most experts failed to anticipate it—away from the field of IR to the more specific study undertaken in the West of the Soviet system. It goes on to argue that the source of so much academic embarrassment may be better explained not through a rehearsal of realism's supposed flaws as an international theory, but rather through a detailed examination of the different ways that different writers understood, or more precisely failed to understand, the operation of the Soviet system itself. The conclusion reached is that few analysts could have predicted what happened between 1989 and 1991. In fact, as the article seeks to show, their often complicated and diverse theories about the USSR as the living alternative to market capitalism led most of them (with one or two notable exceptions) to the conclusion that whatever problems faced the Soviet Union as a power in the 1980s, the system as such was likely to endure.
Alexithymia in patients with alopecia areata: educational background much more important than traumatic events
Authors: Willemsen R , Haentjens P , Roseeuw D , Vanderlinden J
Published: April 2009

Background  Recent studies suggest a higher prevalence of alexithymia in patients with alopecia areata (AA). Some authors link alexithymia with the presence of early traumatic events, such as dysfunctional parent–child relationships. However, until today, no studies have been carried out on the association of alexithymia and early traumatic events in AA patients.

Objective  The primary aim of this study was to explore if an association exists between the presence of traumatic childhood experiences and alexithymia in AA patients. A secondary aim was to confirm earlier observations indicating that the occurrence and/or degree of alexithymia is higher in patients with AA compared with individuals from the general population.

Methods  We enrolled 90 patients with AA. Data on alexithymia and traumatic events were collected with two self‐report questionnaires: the Toronto Alexithymia Scale‐20 and the Traumatic Experiences Checklist. These data were compared with data obtained from control patients without AA randomly selected from patients presenting for dermatological surgery.

Results  In adult AA patients, we found no evidence for a significant association between Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS) scores and emotional neglect or childhood traumatic experiences. We found a significant association with educational level, higher levels of education being associated with lower TAS‐20 scores (P = 0.002). The mean TAS‐20 score of 51.22 (SD 11.90) in our adult AA patient group was significantly higher compared with control patients from the same setting (44.00, SD 10.33, P < 0.001).

Conclusion  In adult AA patients, higher levels of education are significantly associated with lower alexithymia scores. Somewhat unexpectedly, we found no association between alexithymia score and emotional neglect or childhood traumatic experiences. Our results also confirm that alexithymia scores are significantly higher in adult patient with AA compared with control patients.
Muscarinic receptor‐mediated nitric oxide release in a K562 erythroleukaemia cell line
Authors: Cabadak H. , Küçükibrahimoğlu E. , Aydın B. , Kan B. , Zafer Gören M.
Published: April 2009

1 In the present study we have investigated the expression of muscarinic receptors in K562 erythroleukaemic cells and the effects of muscarinic agonist and antagonists on extracellular citrulline levels in these cells, as a marker of nitric oxide (NO) generation.

2 Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (M1–M5) play key roles in regulating many diverse physiological processes. Recent studies suggest that muscarinic receptors mediate some cellular events in haematopoietic cells. Multiple subtypes of muscarinic receptors are expressed in different human cells. NO, a free radical and a signaling molecule, is involved in the regulation of many physiological functions and derived from certain nitric oxide synthases (NOS), which are related to muscarinic receptors.

3 In this study, the presence of M2, M3and M4subtypes in K562, an erythroleukaemic cell line, was demonstrated by using the reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. Moreover, the generation of NO induced by carbachol, a non‐selective muscarinic agonist, was investigated by using high‐performance liquid chromatography to measure changes in extracellularl‐citrulline levels.

4 We found that carbachol enhancedl‐citrulline production in K562 erythroleukaemic cells. The effect of carbachol onl‐citrulline production was antagonized by atropine and 4‐diphenylacetoxy‐N‐methylpiperidine (4‐DAMP), while tropicamide had little effect. These results suggest that the muscarinic receptor M3subtype may mediate NO signaling in K562 erythroleukaemic cells.
Reliability and Validity of Prehospital Case Finding for Depression and Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Shah Manish N. , Karuza Jurgis , Rueckmann Erik , Swanson Peter , Conwell Yeates , Katz Paul
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the test–retest reliability, the concurrent criterion validity, and the construct validity of prehospital, emergency medical service (EMS) case finding for depression and cognitive impairment in older adults.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional study.

SETTING: Prehospital EMS system and hospital emergency department.

PARTICIPANTS: EMS providers and community‐dwelling older adult (aged ≥60) patients.

INTERVENTIONS: Case finding instruments for depression (Patient Health Questionnaire‐2; PHQ‐2) and cognitive impairment (Six‐Item Screener).

MEASUREMENTS: The reliability and validity of these instruments.

RESULTS: Moderate test–retest reliability was found for prehospital application of the PHQ‐2 (kappa=0.50) and Six‐Item Screener (kappa=0.52), fair concurrent criterion validity for depression (kappa=0.36), and slight to fair concurrent criterion validity for cognitive impairment (kappa=0.11–0.23). Construct validity was demonstrated using the Multitrait‐Multimethod Matrix.

CONCLUSION: Moderate test–retest reliability and construct validity were demonstrated for prehospital case finding by EMS providers for cognitive impairment and depression using these instruments. Slight to fair concurrent criterion validity was found, a result that methodological limitations could explain. These findings provide additional support for the concept of using EMS providers to detect older adults at risk for these conditions. Further work is needed to confirm the validity and effectiveness of prehospital screening before such programs are implemented.
Prevalence of Fever in Patients Undergoing Left Atrial Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation Guided by Barium Esophagraphy
Authors: RUBY RUBINDER S. , WELLS DARRYL , SANKARAN SUNDAR , GOOD ERIC , JONGNARANGSIN KRIT , EBINGER MATTHEW , BOGUN FRANK , PELOSI Jr. FRANK , ORAL HAKAN , MORADY FRED , CHUGH AMAN
Published: April 2009

Background: Real‐time esophageal imaging is critical in avoiding esophageal injury. However, the safety of esophageal imaging with barium has not been specifically explored.

Methods: Three hundred seventy consecutive patients underwent left atrial (LA) ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) under conscious sedation. One hundred eighty‐five patients (50%) underwent the ablation procedure with, and 185 patients (50%) underwent the procedure without administration of barium. Fever, as a surrogate for aspiration, was defined as a maximal temperature ≥100°F within the first 24 hours following the ablation procedure.

Results: Thirty of the 370 patients (8%) developed fever within 24 hours after LA ablation. The prevalence of fever was 9% (17/185) among patients who received barium and 7% (13/185) among those who did not receive barium (P = 0.6). Evaluation revealed the following causes of fever in 14 of the 30 patients (47%) with no difference in prevalence between the 2 groups: pericarditis, venous thromboembolism, hematoma, and infiltrate on chest radiography. Multivariate analysis failed to reveal any factors associated with development of fever. None of the patients experienced serious complications such as respiratory failure or atrioesophageal fistula.

Conclusions: Fever may occur in approximately 10% of patients undergoing LA ablation of AF. Administration of barium is not associated with fever or other complications such as aspiration pneumonia. Real‐time imaging of the esophagus with barium administration in conjunction with conscious sedation appears to be safe.
Characterization of interaction between CLP36 and palladin
Authors: Maeda Masao , Asano Eri , Ito Daisuke , Ito Satoko , Hasegawa Yoshinori , Hamaguchi Michinari , Senga Takeshi
Published: April 2009

CLP36 is a member of the PDZ‐LIM family of proteins, which associates with α‐actinin and localizes to the actin cytoskeleton. CLP36 is involved in the formation of stress fibers and focal adhesions; however, the molecular mechanism of how CLP36 regulates stress fiber formation is still unknown. To investigate the physiological function of CLP36, we performed yeast two‐hybrid screening, and found that CLP36 interacts with palladin. Palladin is an important structural element of the actin cytoskeleton that is ubiquitously expressed and associates with α‐actinin. The interaction was dependent on the PDZ domain of CLP36 and the C‐terminus of palladin, and silencing of palladin suppressed localization of CLP36 to stress fibers. Overexpression of the PDZ domain of CLP36 also inhibited the localization of palladin to stress fibers, suggesting that the association of CLP36 and palladin is important for the localization of both proteins to stress fibers. Our experimental results indicate that α‐actinin, CLP36 and palladin form a protein complex and contribute to regulation of the actin cytoskeleton.
CAPILLARY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY ANALYSIS OF LIPID COMPOSITION AND EVALUATION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS BY MICELLAR ELECTROKINETIC CHROMATOGRAPHY IN ITALIAN WALNUT (JUGLANS REGIA L.): IRRIGATION AND FERTILIZATION INFLUENCE
Authors: VERARDO VITO , BENDINI ALESSANDRA , CERRETANI LORENZO , MALAGUTI DONATELLA , COZZOLINO EUGENIO , CABONI MARIA FIORENZA
Published: April 2009

Rapid analytical techniques were used to analyze the lipid fraction and to characterize phenolic compounds in Italian walnuts (Chandler cv.) grown in the same experimental orchard under different agronomical conditions. Lipid components such as fatty acids, sterols and tocopherols were determined by capillary gas chromatography using a flame ionization detector. Linoleic and linolenic acids were the most representative ω‐6 and ω‐3 essential dietary fatty acids present. A total lipid chromatogram was used to simultaneously determine free sterols and tocopherols. Walnuts contained substantial amounts of γ‐ and δ‐tocopherol, which explains their antioxidant properties. Sitosterol, Δ5‐avenasterol and campesterol were the major free sterols found.

Micellar electrokinetic chromatography was used to analyze simple and complex phenols (tannin profile), while the total phenol amount and the antioxidant activity of phenolic extracts were assessed by spectrophotometric assays with Folin‐Ciocalteu and ABTS•+ reagents, respectively. The total phenol content was higher than most foodstuffs. Moreover, more than 96% of the phenolic fraction belonged to the tannin class.

Statistical analysis of the data showed that higher levels of nitrogen fertilization led to a significant increase in linoleic acid. This effect can induce a faster oxidation of lipid fraction of walnuts. Nevertheless, major nitrogen fertilization and irrigation were able to enrich walnuts in phenolic compounds.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Walnuts (Juglans regia L.) are a good source of essential fatty acids, tocopherols and phenolic compounds that contribute to reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, and also inhibit the oxidation of human plasma and low density lipoproteins. In this work, the applicability of fast analytical determinations was utilized to discriminate different walnut samples. Total lipid chromatogram was used for the simultaneous determination of the profile of sterols and tocopherols; micellar electrokinetic chromatography was used for the phenolic separation, which takes less than 10 min. The proposed methods are ideal for routine analysis of the lipidic and phenolic fractions in order to control the quality of walnuts.
Wafer-scale production of carbon nanofiber probes
Authors: Kitazawa Masashi , Ohta Ryo , Sugita Yoshitaka , Inaba Kazuhisa , Tanemura Masaki
Published: April 2009

The 4in. wafer-scale production of probes tipped with single carbon nanofibers (CNF probes) for scanning probe microscope was achieved by an Ar+-ion-irradiation method. For the wafer-scale production, an arrangement of commercial-type Si cantilevers (tetrahedral Si tips), onto which single CNFs are grown, was optimized to contain 288 cantilevers in a 4in. wafer. The ion-induced CNFs were then batch grown in the wafer scale. Scanning electron microscope observation of 50 of 288 probes randomly selected revealed that the CNFs were linear shaped, ∼400nm in average length and ∼9nm in average radius, and that ∼80% of the probes batch grown were suitable for practical use as qualified probes. Atomic force microscope image of a densely distributed plastic nanocolumn array obtained by the batch-grown CNF probe was clearer and less distorted, compared to that attained by a conventional Si probe. Thus, the ion-irradiation method opened up new route for the wafer-scale production of CNF probes for practical daily use.
Molecular conductance switching via controlled alteration of electron delocalization: Quinone-modified oligo(phenylenevinylene)
Authors: Tsoi S. , Griva I. , Trammell S. A. , Blum A. S. , Schnur J. M. , Lebedev N.
Published: April 2009

Reversible conductance switching in single quinone-modified oligo(phenylenevinylene)s (OPV) was studied using electrochemical scanning tunnel microscopy. The switching was achieved through electrochemical oxidation/reduction in the quinone moiety of the molecule. The strong electron delocalization of the reduced hydroquinone-OPV structure resulted in the high-conductance state, whereas the weaker delocalization of the oxidized quinone-OPV was responsible for the low-conductance state. The ratio of the conductances was measured to be in excess of 40.
Mesa sample preparation for secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiling using an automated dicing saw
Authors: Guenther T. , Jiang Z. X. , Kim K. , Sieloff D. D.
Published: April 2009

The use of secondary ion mass spectrometry to verify dopant profiles, either for process control or for simulation modeling, is an established practice in semiconductor fabrication, where precise dopant concentrations are integral to device performance. Of the many understood secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) artifacts, the crater edge effect is one that can limit critical detection limits under conventional SIMS profiling of high dose samples. The use of a mesa structure to eliminate crater sidewall contribution is a proven remedial method, although with practical limitations associated with each iteration of the approach. This work explored a method of constructing a mesa structure using an automated dicing saw. The mesa structures were prepared relatively quickly, taking only about 20min to construct a six mesa array per sample. Scanning electron microscopy images of cross sectioned mesa structures indicating excellent slope was achieved, without erosion of the mesa surface. Depth profiles from two examples of high dose samples were collected by both standard SIMS and mesa SIMS. Analogous mesa profiles demonstrated between 20 and 5 times gains in detection limits compared to the standard SIMS profiles, comparable to gains achieved in other mesa work. Mesa profiles appeared to be accurate, void of mesa induced artifacts, and repeatable, based on examinations of matrix intensities and peak shapes compared to the standard profiles.
Interleukin-12 (IL-12), but Not IL-23, Deficiency Ameliorates Viral Encephalitis without Affecting Viral Control
Authors: Kapil Parul , Atkinson Roscoe , Ramakrishna Chandran , Cua Daniel J. , Bergmann Cornelia C. , Stohlman Stephen A.
Published: April 2009

The relative contributions of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-23 to viral pathogenesis have not been extensively studied. IL-12p40 mRNA rapidly increases after neurotropic coronavirus infection. Infection of mice defective in both IL-12 and IL-23 (p40−/−), in IL-12 alone (p35−/−), and in IL-23 alone (p19−/−) revealed that the symptoms of coronavirus-induced encephalitis are regulated by IL-12. IL-17-producing cells never exceeded background levels, supporting a redundant role of IL-23 in pathogenesis. Viral control, tropism, and demyelination were all similar in p35−/−, p19−/−, and wild-type mice. Reduced morbidity in infected IL-12 deficient mice was also not associated with altered recruitment or composition of inflammatory cells. However, gamma interferon (IFN-γ) levels and virus-specific IFN-γ-secreting CD4 and CD8 T cells were all reduced in the central nervous systems (CNS) of infected p35−/−mice. Transcription of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-6, but not tumor necrosis factor, were initially reduced in infected p35−/−mice but increased to wild-type levels during peak inflammation. Furthermore, although transforming growth factor β mRNA was not affected, IL-10 was increased in the CNS in the absence of IL-12. These data suggest that IL-12 does not contribute to antiviral function within the CNS but enhances morbidity associated with viral encephalitis by increasing the ratio of IFN-γ to protective IL-10.
Bradykinin inhibits the transient outward K+current in mouse Schwann cells via the cAMP/PKA pathway
Authors: Zhang Man , Fei Xiao-Wei , He Yan-Lin , Yang Guang , Mei Yan-Ai
Published: April 2009

Bradykinin (BK) is an endogenous peptide with diverse biological actions and is considered to be an important mediator of the inflammatory response in both the peripheral and the central nervous systems. BK has attracted recent interest as a potential mediator of K+conductance, Cl−channels, and Ca2+-activated K+channels. However, few reports have associated BK with the voltage-gated K+current. In this study, we demonstrated that BK suppressed the transient outward potassium current ( IA) in mouse Schwann cells using whole cell recording techniques. At a concentration of 0.1 μM to 5 μM, BK reversibly inhibited IAin a dose-dependent manner with the modulation of steady-state activation and inactivation properties. The effect of BK on IAcurrent was abolished after preincubation with a B2receptor antagonist but could not be eliminated by B1receptor antagonist. Intracellular application of GTP-γS induced an irreversible decrease in IA, and the inhibition of Gsusing NF449 provoked a gradual augmentation in IAand eliminated the BK-induced effect on IA,while the Gi/oantagonist NF023 did not. The application of forskolin or dibutyryl-cAMP mimicked the inhibitory effect of BK on IAand abolished the BK-induced effect on IA. H-89, an inhibitor of PKA, augmented IAamplitude and completely eliminated the BK-induced inhibitory effect on IA. In contrast, activation of PKC by PMA augmented IAamplitude. A cAMP assay revealed that BK significantly increased intracellular cAMP level. It is therefore concluded that BK inhibits the IAcurrent in Schwann cells by cAMP/PKA-dependent pathways via activation of the B2receptor.
Electrophysiological Properties of Dural Afferents in the Absence and Presence of Inflammatory Mediators
Authors: Harriott Andrea M. , Gold Michael S.
Published: April 2009

Migraine is a debilitating condition characterized by recurrent severe head pain. Although mechanisms underlying a migraine attack remain controversial, one proposal is that inflammatory mediator (IM)–induced activation and sensitization of dural afferents contribute to the initiation of migraine pain. We and others have shown that the electrophysiological properties of afferents, both in the absence and the presence of IM, vary as a function of target of innervation. These differences may account for unique aspects of pain syndromes associated with specific body regions. Therefore the purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that the electrophysiological properties of dural afferents differ from those innervating the temporalis muscle (TM), a structure in close proximity to the dura but that is not associated with pain syndromes at all similar to migraine. Acutely dissociated retrograde labeled primary afferents innervating the dura and TM were examined with whole cell current-clamp recordings. Passive and active electrophysiological properties were determined before and after the application of IM: (in μM) prostaglandin E2(1), bradykinin (10), and histamine (1). In the absence of IM, there were significant differences between the two populations, particularly with respect to the response to suprathreshold stimulation where dural afferents were more excitable than TM afferents. Importantly, although both populations of afferents were sensitized by IM, the pattern of passive and active electrophysiological changes associated with IM-induced sensitization of these two populations of afferents suggested that there were both similarities and marked differences between the two with respect to underlying mechanisms of sensitization. If the differences between dural and TM afferents are due to a differential pattern of ion channel expression rather than differences in the relative density/biophysical properties of the same ion channels, it may be possible to selectively treat migraine pain by targeting the distinct mechanisms underlying IM-induced sensitization of dural afferents.
Electrical Methods for Skin Moisture Assessment
Authors: Martinsen Ø.G. , Grimnes S. , Karlsen J.
Published: April 2009

Skin sites on 8 test subjects were treated with moisturizers, and different electrical measuring methods were compared regarding their quality in the assessment of the induced changes in the stratum corneum hydration level. Low frequency susceptance measurements were found preferable to high frequency admittance measurements, and the advantages of monopolar measurements with the three-electrode system are described.
Messenger RNA Expression of Steroidogenesis Enzyme Subtypes in the Human Pilosebaceous Unit
Authors: Courchay Guy , Boyera Nathalie , Bernard Bruno A. , Make Yann
Published: April 2009

In order to define the respective involvement of steroidogenesis enzymes subtypes in the control of hair follicle homeostasis, we evaluated, by semiquantitative RT/PCR, the expression levels of mRNAs coding for 17 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 and type 2, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, Cyt.P450-aromatase, steroid 5α-reductase type 1 and type 2 and 11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. These assays were performed for several components of the pilosebaceous unit (PSU); fresh plucked anagen hairs, sebaceous glands and primary culture of dermal papilla, as well as other tissues involved in an active steroid metabolism (human testis, liver, placenta, prostate, ovary, uterus and adrenals) as controls. We found that plucked hair (i.e. mainly keratinocytes from the inner and outer root sheaths) expressed: (1) very high levels of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 corresponding to levels found in liver and placenta; (2) high levels of steroid 5-α-reductase type 1 corresponding to levels found in testis, liver and ovary, and moderate levels of 17 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, which corresponded to the expression in testis, prostate and uterus. In contrast, Cyt.P450-aromatase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and steroid 5α-reductase type 2 were poorly expressed in the pilosebaceous unit as compared with other tissues. Interestingly, expression patterns of these enzymes in primary cultures of dermal papilla were distinctive since 5α-reductase type 1 and 11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase were the only mRNA detected. Taken together, these results suggest that not only sebaceous gland but also outer root sheath keratinocytes may contribute, through the activity of the steroid 5α-reductase type 1, to the pathogenesis of androgen-dependent alopecia.
Adolescent Musicians' Perceptions of Conductors Within Musical Context
Authors: Madsen Clifford K. , Geringer John M. , Madsen Katia
Published: April 2009

Attention to subtle changes in music, whether inadvertent or purposeful, occupies a great deal of practice and rehearsal time for the performer. Regardless of the extremely subtle acoustic changes that have been found to be perceptible within almost all studies, it is the total overall effect that most occupies the individual listener. This study investigated perception of digitally edited performances of Johann Strauss's Blue Danube Waltz, all performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra with various conductors across an 18-year period. Two groups of string musicians in grades 7 through 12 participated ( N = 104). One group was an intact class; the second was a group of summer camp students. All participants listened to two conditions: (a) audio only and (b) audio-video combination. Results indicated that there were no significant differences between groups and that no one was able to identify correctly that there were five different conductors in the audio-only condition. Results were much the same as earlier research with college students. In addition, many students indicated that there were differences in the audio portions of the two conditions when in fact there were not.
South Asia
Authors: Jones Peter
Published: April 2009

Unlike many other regions of the world that have been experiencing steadily increasing levels of economic and political integration, South Asia remains stubbornly slow in enhancing levels of regional cooperation. This article looks at the issue through the mechanism of the Regional Security Community Theory and asks whether this theory has any relevance for South Asia. It concludes that purist notions of what makes such communities are not likely to be relevant to South Asia for some time. But if one takes a more flexible approach to the theoretical construct, and looks to issues which attend the nascent phase of the development of such communities, one may both discern developments and outline possible strategies that can help to bring about changes in the region's political and strategic reality.
Note. Pollen Analysis and Antibacterial Activity of Spanish Honeys
Authors: Garcia M. , Perez-Arquillue C. , Juan T. , Juan M. I. , Herrera A.
Published: April 2009

Antibacterial activity of twenty-five samples of honey from different botanical origin was evaluated. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 was used as the resistant microorganism. Pollen analysis revealed different botanical origins: Labiatae, rosemary, eucalyptus, heather and multifloral. The pH and acidity values were in the normal range, except for four samples that showed acidity values over 40 meq/kg, but none exhibited a state of fermentation. We have not found correlation between antibacterial activity and free acidity in the samples. Labiatae and rosemary honeys have exhibited the largest inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC, conversely to heather honeys, which showed lowest inhibition ability against this microorganism. Our results may indicate the presence of antimicrobial agents in Labiatae and rosemary honeys that have inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC. Likewise, the free acids of heather honeys have not shown inhibitory activity over this microorganism.
Stages of Change in Physical Activity: A Validation Study in Late Adolescence
Authors: Parker Philip D. , Martin Andrew J. , Martinez Carissa , Marsh Herbert W. , Jackson Susan A.
Published: April 2009

The present study explores the validity of a recent stages of change (SoC) measure and algorithm among a sample of late adolescents. MANOVA and structural equation modeling are used to assess the relationship between five SoC groups (precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance) and a set of dependent measures including physical activity level, physical activity motivation, physical self-concept, and flow. Findings are based on 705 Australian adolescents, using scale score and latent variable approaches, provided support for the construct validity of the SoC measure and algorithm. Specifically, findings reveal that participants in the upper SoC (action and maintenance) score significantly higher on positively geared dimensions (e.g., physical self-concept, flow, etc.) and significantly lower on negatively geared dimensions (e.g., maladaptive behavior). Implications for future research and practice with adolescent populations are discussed.
Investigation of Continuously Produced Thermoplastic Honeycomb Processing — Part I: Thermoforming
Authors: Fan X. , Verpoest I. , Pflug J. , Vandepitte D. , Bratfisch P.
Published: April 2009

A continuous process of thermoplastic honeycomb core, ThermHex, has been patented and is under development at K. U. Leuven. This new concept of thermoplastic honeycomb provides more affordable choices for structural applications than the previous expensive honeycombs thanks to the automated and continuous processing technology. The ThermHex process starts from one continuous thermoplastic sheet and consists of three main processing steps: thermoforming of half-hexagonal webs, folding of webs to honeycomb geometry, and internal fusion bonding. In this article, the polymeric material behavior during the thermoforming step is investigated in detail. First the material is characterized by a series of polymer tests to obtain basic data for the next numerical calculation. Then a 1D viscoelastic model and a 2D finite element (FE) model are used to analyze the polymer behavior during the thermoforming step, to acquire the correct understanding and hence to minimize the effect of the anelastic strain recovery (ASR) during the production. It is found that the material stress relaxation is one of the key features of the final process quality.
Zebrafish gbx1 refines the Midbrain-Hindbrain Boundary border and mediates the Wnt8 posteriorization signal
Authors: Rhinn Muriel , Lun Klaus , Ahrendt Reiner , Geffarth Michaela , Brand Michael
Published: April 2009

Background

Studies in mouse, Xenopus and chicken have shown that Otx2 and Gbx2 expression domains are fundamental for positioning the midbrain-hindbrain boundary (MHB) organizer. Of the two zebrafish gbx genes, gbx1 is a likely candidate to participate in this event because its early expression is similar to that reported for Gbx2 in other species. Zebrafish gbx2, on the other hand, acts relatively late at the MHB. To investigate the function of zebrafish gbx1 within the early neural plate, we used a combination of gain- and loss-of-function experiments.

Results

We found that ectopic gbx1 expression in the anterior neural plate reduces forebrain and midbrain, represses otx2 expression and repositions the MHB to a more anterior position at the new gbx1/otx2 border. In the case of gbx1 loss-of-function, the initially robust otx2 domain shifts slightly posterior at a given stage (70% epiboly), as does MHB marker expression. We further found that ectopic juxtaposition of otx2 and gbx1 leads to ectopic activation of MHB markers fgf8, pax2.1 and eng2. This indicates that, in zebrafish, an interaction between otx2 and gbx1 determines the site of MHB development. Our work also highlights a novel requirement for gbx1 in hindbrain development. Using cell-tracing experiments, gbx1 was found to cell-autonomously transform anterior neural tissue into posterior. Previous studies have shown that gbx1 is a target of Wnt8 graded activity in the early neural plate. Consistent with this, we show that gbx1 can partially restore hindbrain patterning in cases of Wnt8 loss-of-function. We propose that in addition to its role at the MHB, gbx1 acts at the transcriptional level to mediate Wnt8 posteriorizing signals that pattern the developing hindbrain.

Conclusion

Our results provide evidence that zebrafish gbx1 is involved in positioning the MHB in the early neural plate by refining the otx2 expression domain. In addition to its role in MHB formation, we have shown that gbx1 is a novel mediator of Wnt8 signaling during hindbrain patterning.
Survey of New Horizons International Music Association musicians
Authors: Coffman Don
Published: April 2009

This study analysed survey responses from 1652 New Horizons International Music Association (NHIMA) musicians in the United States and Canada to better understand older adults' experiences in making music. The purpose of this study was threefold: (a) ascertain the extent of NHIMA musicians' musical backgrounds and their current involvement in music making; (b) determine perceived benefits of music making in NHIMA groups; and (c) establish a baseline for a longitudinal study that monitors NHIMA musicians' health compared with similar adults who are non-musicians to document relationships between health changes and music making. NHIMA musicians can be typified as approximately 70 years old, almost exclusively Caucasian, of average health, college educated, with above average incomes and with previous playing experience on their instruments in high school. They play their instruments on average for an hour a day. Their comments reveal that most of the respondents cite emotional well-being and benefits, followed by physical well-being, cognitive stimulation and socialization benefits. This large sample study thus corroborates the findings of previous efforts using smaller samples and provides baseline data for future research.
Atlas Linguistiques Roumains
Authors: Saramandu Nicolae
Published: April 2009

The author introduces the Romanian linguistic atlases that appeared within an interval of a hundred years. There were taken into consideration three series of linguistic atlases:

– Linguistischer Atlas des dakorumänischen Sprachgebietes (Leipzig, 1909) by Gustav Weigand,

– Atlasul lingvistic român (1938–1942) by Sever Pop and Emil Petrovici, under the guidance of Sextil Puşcariu,

– 8 regional linguistic atlases, representing the historical provinces; starting with 1967 there appeared 24 volumes up to the present moment.

– At present Atlasul lingvistic român pe regiuni. Sinteză (coordinator: Nicolae Saramandu) is being elaborated. The first volume was issued in 2005.
Largemouth Bass Virus in Texas: Distribution and Management Issues
Authors: Southard Gregory M. , Fries Loraine T. , Terre David R.
Published: April 2009

In response to fish kills at prominent fishing sites for largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, such as Lake Fork and Sam Rayburn Reservoir, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department began a systematic evaluation of state waters for the presence of largemouth bass virus (LMBV). The survey comprised 49 water bodies and 13 river basins, and a total of 2,876 adult bass were collected by electrofishing and angling during the summer and fall of 2000. The virus was initially detected by means of cell culture and its presence subsequently confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Fourteen reservoirs in eight river basins in eastern and central Texas tested positive for LMBV. Lake Fork was also tested to determine the prevalence of infection following a 1999 LMBV fish kill. The overall prevalence was low in all of the water bodies tested (1.50 ± 2.82% (mean ± SD)) as well as those determined to contain LMBV (5.00 ± 3.02%). Largemouth bass testing positive for LMBV had a significantly higher prevalence of swim bladder anomalies, but this condition was not a good indicator of LMBV infection. No significant relationships were found between LMBV-positive fish and other factors investigated, including the presence or absence of grossly visible injury, hook marks, external parasites, known water quality problems, gender, allozyme–phenotype, method of capture, length, weight, body condition (relative weight), or age. This survey provided a means of gathering scientific information about LMBV, including its distribution in Texas. From the information gained by this survey, prior fish kills, and previous sampling efforts, a total of 19 water bodies within 9 of the 13 major river basins in the state were found to contain the virus. These results were used to guide a statewide fish stocking strategy aimed at preventing the spread of LMBV in Texas and to contribute to a nationwide effort to understand this virus and its effects on largemouth bass fisheries.
Acúmulo de macro e micronutrientes por soja e Brachiaria brizantha emergida em diferentes épocas
Authors: Silva A.C. , Freitas R.S. , Ferreira L.R. , Fontes P.C.R.
Published: April 2009

A rotação entre soja e B. brizantha tem sido muito utilizada na integração agricultura-pecuária. Contudo, o banco de sementes formado pela pastagem anterior torna a forrageira uma espécie daninha importante no cultivo da soja. Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar os efeitos de diferentes épocas de emergência de B. brizantha em relação à soja no acúmulo de macro e micronutrientes por ambas as espécies. O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação, avaliando-se sete épocas de emergência de B. brizantha em relação à emergência da soja, sendo: -21, -14 e -7 dias, as épocas da emergência da braquiária antes da emergência da soja (DA); 0, a emergência simultânea da soja e da braquiária; e 7, 14 e 21 dias, as épocas de emergência da braquiária depois da soja (DD), além de duas testemunhas (apenas soja ou B. brizantha), no delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. A avaliação nutricional das plantas foi realizada no estádio de pleno florescimento da soja. Na emergência simultânea das espécies, B. brizantha apresentou maior acúmulo de N, P, K, S, Mg, Cu, Mn e Fe, enquanto a soja acumulou mais Ca, Zn e B. A soja obteve vantagem no acúmulo dos demais nutrientes quando a forrageira emergiu em torno de 7 DD, com máximo acúmulo quando B. brizantha emergiu aos 21 DD.
Eficácia do herbicida oxyfluorfen com a cobertura de palha no controle de plantas daninhas
Authors: Negrisoli E. , Correa M.R. , Rossi C.V.S. , Carbonari C.A. , Velini E.D. , Perim L.
Published: April 2009

A palha pode alterar a dinâmica do herbicida oxyfluorfen no sistema de cana-crua; assim, este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar a eficácia do oxyfluorfen em condições de casa de vegetação, com a cobertura de palha, no controle das plantas daninhas que ocorrem em cana-crua. Foram avaliadas as espécies de Brachiaria decumbens, Ipomoea grandifolia, Ipomoea quamoclit e Merremia cissoides. A dose utilizada do oxyfluorfen foi de 3 L ha-1 (720 g i.a. ha-1). Os tratamentos constaram de diferentes posicionamentos do herbicida e condições antes e após a aplicação. A porcentagem de controle das plantas daninhas foi avaliada aos 12, 20, 26, 33 e 38 DAA. Os maiores índices de controle aos 38 DAA, independentemente da planta daninha estudada, foram alcançados quando se aplicou oxyfluorfen em tratamentos com a presença de palha em cobertura, com ou sem umidade. No entanto, os resultados obtidos nos demais tratamentos mostraram-se eficientes no controle das diferentes espécies de plantas daninhas estudadas.