bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cover Picture: Construction of the Six‐ and Five‐Membered Aza‐Heterocyclic Units of the Isoindoloisoquinolone Nucleus by Parham‐Type Cyclization Sequences − Total Synthesis of Nuevamine (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 16/2005)
Authors: Moreau Anne , Couture Axel , Deniau Eric , Grandclaudon Pierre
Published: August 2005

The cover picture shows a specimen of Berberiis darwinii Hook gathered in Southern Chile, in the vicinity of Ciudad Orsono. One can also see a photo of W. E. Parham (1922−1976) who developed a new annulation process that has been applied for the total synthesis of Nuevamine, the first isoindolo[1,2‐a]isoquinolone known to occur in nature and that has been isolated from this plant. Details are discussed in the article by A. Couture et al. on p. 3437 ff.
Underpotential Deposition and Stripping of Lead at Disorganized Monolayer‐Modified Gold Electrodes
Authors: Herzog Grégoire , Arrigan Damien W. M.
Published: August 2005

Underpotential deposition (UPD) and stripping of Pb2+ at thiol‐based disorganized monolayer‐modified gold electrodes was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical quartz crystal microgravimetry (EQCM). Electrodes modified with mercaptoacetic acid or mercaptoethane sulfonic acid were studied. Due to the proximity of the potentials for the Pb UPD and thiol reductive desorption, achievement of a UPD‐stripping voltammetry methodology for determination of low concentrations of Pb2+ was not successful. However by comparison of the CV and EQCM data and consideration of the possible mass changes per mole electrons transferred in light of the other species present in solution, possible mechanisms are put forward for the deposition and stripping of Pb2+ at thiol‐modified electrodes.
Estimation of freshwater and material fluxes from the Yangtze River into the East China Sea by using TOPEX/Poseidon altimeter data
Authors: Zhang Jiqun , Xu Kaiqin , Qi Lianhui , Yang Yonghui , Watanabe Masataka
Published: August 2005

In order to determine material fluxes in rivers by non‐contact methods, it is essential to estimate river discharge first. Although developed and optimized for open oceans, satellite radar altimetry has the potential to monitor variations in the levels of inland waters such as lakes and rivers. Making use of the concept of an ‘assumed reference point’, we converted TOPEX/Poseidon satellite altimetry data on water level variations in the Yangtze River (Changjiang) to ‘water level’ data. We also used ‘water level’ time‐series data and in situ river discharge to establish a rating curve. By use of the rating curve, we converted data on ‘water level’ derived from 7 years (1993–99) of TOPEX/Poseidon data to actual river discharge. On the basis of statistical correlation between discharge and nutrient concentration data collected in 1987–88 and in 1998–99, we estimated the total amounts of freshwater and material fluxes transferred by the Yangtze River during the 1990s. The result reveals that an overall, but very slight, increase in freshwater and material fluxes occurred during the 1990s. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differentiation between weathered kerosene and diesel fuel using automatic thermal desorption‐GC‐MS analysis and the likelihood ratio approach
Authors: Zadora Grzegorz , Borusiewicz Rafal , Zieba‐Palus Janina
Published: August 2005

The identification of various petroleum products, which can be used to set a fire, is one of the tasks of a forensic examination. One of the analytical problems is differentiation of weathered kerosene and diesel fuel samples, analysed with automatic thermal desorption‐GC‐MS technique, because there are only small quantitative differences in their chemical compositions. The presented research showed that the observed differences in the analysed samples of kerosene and a diesel fuel, which were weathered at the time of burning, were systematic and significant. Therefore, it was possible to distinguish them on the basis of information about the relative content of n‐alkanes (C11H24–C15H32) when statistical methods (cluster analysis and likelihood ratio approach) were applied.
A proteomic analysis of cold stress responses in rice seedlings
Authors: Cui Suxia , Huang Fang , Wang Jie , Ma Xiao , Cheng Yongsheng , Liu Jinyuan
Published: August 2005

Using proteomic analysis, an investigation aimed at a better understanding of the molecular adaptation mechanisms of cold stress was carried out in rice (Oryza sativa). The seedlings were exposed to a progressively low temperature stress treatment from normal temperature to 15, 10, and 5°C. Proteins were extracted from the leaves collected from both control and stressed seedlings. By fractionation, approximately 1700 protein spots were separated and visualized on CBB‐stained 2‐D gels. Sixty protein spots were found to be up‐regulated in responding to the progressively low temperature stress and displayed different dynamic patterns. As an initial work, 41 of these proteins were identified using MALDI‐TOF MS or ESI/MS/MS. These cold responsive proteins, besides two proteins of unknown function, include four factors of protein biosynthesis, four molecular chaperones, two proteases, and eight enzymes involved in biosynthesis of cell wall components, seven antioxidative/detoxifying enzymes, and proteins linked to energy pathway, as well as a protein involved in signal transduction. The functional proteomes illuminate the facts, at least in plant cell, that protein quality control mediated by chaperones and proteases and enhancement of cell wall components play important roles in tolerance to cold stress. Using TargetP program, the subcellular localization of the identified proteins was analyzed. Proteins (43.9%) were predicted to be located in the chloroplasts, implying that chloroplast proteome is virtually subjective to cold stress. The physiological implications, revealed from the experimental data, are discussed in context of a complex metabolic network in plant cells responsive to cold stress.
Fluorinated alcohols as surface‐active agents in cationic photopolymerization of epoxy monomers
Authors: Sangermano M. , Bongiovanni R. , Priola A. , Pospiech D.
Published: August 2005

Fluorinated alcohols were used as surface modifying agents, through chain transfer mechanism in cationic UV curing of an epoxy system. The fluorinated alcohols were able to induce surface modification already at very low concentration (below 1 wt %). It has been shown that the surface modification depended on the concentration of the fluoroalcohols, on the length of the fluoroalkyl chain, and on the length of the methylene spacer between the fluorinated chain and the OH group. The strong increase on hydrophobicity in the presence of the synthesized fluorinated alcohol, CF3(CF2)9(CH2)10OH, was attributed to the higher fluorocontent of the chain as well as to a self‐organization effect. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4144–4150, 2005
Insecticidal activity of 23 essential oils and their major compounds against adult Lipaphis pseudobrassicae (Davis) (Aphididae: Homoptera)
Authors: Sampson Blair J , Tabanca Nurhayat , Kirimer Nes'e , Demirci Betul , Baser K Husnu Can , Khan Ikhlas A , Spiers James M , Wedge David E
Published: August 2005

Essential oils from 23 species of plants comprising 14 genera and 4 plant families were obtained by Clevenger‐type water distillation. The major compounds in these essential oils were identified with GC‐MS and their insecticidal activity against adult turnip aphids, Lipaphis pseudobrassicae (Davis), tested with dosage‐mortality bioassays. We examined mortality only for viviparous adults because sizeable aphid populations on crucifer (Brassicaceae) hosts are largely produced by these wingless, parthenogenic females. Twenty‐two of the oils were directly applied to aphid females in randomized blocks at concentrations of 0.0, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg ml−1. Essential oils mixed with a non‐toxic emulsifying agent, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), more easily penetrated the waxy insect cuticle. Probit analysis and LC50 at three different exposures showed aphids were quickly incapacitated and killed by aliphatic aldehydes, phenols and monocyclic terpenes contained in Bifora and Satureja oils and at applied concentrations as low as 0.3 to 1.0 mg ml−1. Only enough Pimpinella isaurica oil and its three phenylpropanoid fractions were available for testing at a single concentration of 10 mg ml−1. We could not spare any additional P. isaurica oil for testing at other concentrations. Phenylpropanoids isolated from P. isaurica oil when recombined or left naturally blended in the oil were highly bioactive against L. pseudobrassicae at 10 mg ml−1. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Equilibration kinetics of TiO2 single crystal at elevated temperatures
Authors: Nowotny J. , Bak T. , Nowotny M. K. , Sorrell C. C.
Published: August 2005

The equilibration kinetics of single‐crystal TiO2 were determined in the rapid kinetics regime (within the first 10 h) within narrow ranges of oxygen activities, p(O2), under the conditions of 1198–1323 K and p(O2) = 10–10–105 Pa. The determined chemical diffusion coefficient, Dchem, is observed to exhibit a complex dependence on p(O2). Comparison of Dchem for single‐crystal and polycrystalline TiO2 demonstrates that the grain boundaries have a retarding effect on the transport of defects. The present work represents the first assessment of the effect of nonstoichiometry on well defined Dchem for TiO2 within a wide range of p(O2). (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ghosts of B‐type Wheat Starch Granules in Concentrated KI/I2 Solution
Authors: Hayashi Miho , Kiribuchi‐Otobe Chihako , Seguchi Masaharu
Published: August 2005

When B‐type (2.0–8.0 µm) wheat starch granules containing various amounts (2.1–25%) of amylose were treated with 25% KI/10% I2 solution, low‐amylose (below 10% amylose) B‐type wheat starch granules changed to the ghost form. It is known that A‐type (25–35 µm) wheat starch granules change to the ghost form and show a typical double structure (a black‐brown central portion and red‐brown surrounding portion), however, the B‐type wheat starch ghosts did not show the same double structure but rather a simple (red‐brown portion) sack form. The relative ghost areas in the B‐type wheat starch granules were highly correlated to the amylose content (%), which was similar to the results of A‐type starch granules. This suggests that the amylose molecule in B‐type starch contributes to the structural stability of the starch granule.
Higher-order response in O(N) by perturbed projection
Authors: Weber Valéry , Niklasson Anders M. N. , Challacombe Matt
Published: August 2005

Perturbed projection for linear scaling solution of the coupled-perturbed self-consistent-field equations [V. Weber, A.M.N. Niklasson, and M. Challacombe, Phys. Rev. Lett. 92, 193002 (2004)] is extended to the computation of higher-order static response properties. Although generally applicable, perturbed projection is further developed here in the context of the self-consistent first and second electric hyperpolarizabilities at the Hartree–Fock level of theory. Nonorthogonal, density-matrix analogs of Wigner’s 2n+1 rule valid for linear one-electron perturbations are given up to fourth order. Linear scaling and locality of the higher-order response densities under perturbation by a global electric field are demonstrated for three-dimensional water clusters.
Molecular structure extracted from residual dipolar couplings: Diphenylmethane dissolved in a nematic liquid crystal
Authors: Thaning Johan , Stevensson Baltzar , Maliniak Arnold
Published: August 2005

This paper describes an analysis of H1–H1 residual dipolar couplings (RDCs) in diphenylmethane (DPM) dissolved in a nematic liquid crystal, reported by Celebre et al. [J. Chem. Phys. 118, 6417 (2003)]. In that article, the conformational distribution function for DPM was extracted from the RDCs, using the additive potential (AP) model which is based on the molecular-field theory. The AP approach is a powerful, and frequently used, tool for analysis of the nuclear-magnetic-resonance (NMR) parameters in liquid crystals. It requires, however, a priori knowledge of the functional form of the torsional potential, which may even for a simple molecule, such as DPM, be complicated to determine. Here, we analyze the same set of the RDCs using our APME procedure, which is a hybrid model based on the AP approach and maximum entropy (ME) theory. The APME procedure does not require any assumptions about the functional form of the torsional potential and, in contrast with the ME method, is applicable to weakly ordered systems. In the investigation reported in the present study, the results from the APME analysis are in good agreement with the AP interpretation, whereas the ME approach essentially fails in the extraction of the conformational distribution function for DPM.
SERS in PAH-Os and gold nanoparticle self-assembled multilayers
Authors: Tognalli N. , Fainstein A. , Calvo E. , Bonazzola C. , Pietrasanta L. , Campoy-Quiles M. , Etchegoin P.
Published: August 2005

We present a detailed structural and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) study of poly(allylamine) modified with Os(byp)2ClPyCHO (PAH-Os) and gold nanoparticles self-assembled multilayers [PAH-Os+(Au-nanoparticles∕PAH-Os)n, n=1 and 5]. Atomic force microscopy and variable-angle spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements indicate that the first nanoparticle layer grows homogenously by partially covering the substrate without clustering. Analyzing the sample thickness and roughness we infer that the growth process advances thereafter by filling with nanoparticles the interstitial spaces between the previously adsorbed nanoparticles. After five immersion steps the multilayers reach a more compact structure. The interaction between plasmons of near-gold nanoparticles provides a new optical absorption around 650nm which, in addition, allows a more effective SERS process in that spectral region than at the single-plasmon resonance (∼530nm). We compare the electronic resonance Raman and SERS amplification mechanisms in these self-assembled multilayers analyzing Raman resonance scans and Raman intensity micromaps. As a function of nanoparticle coverage we observe large changes in the Raman intensity scans, with maxima that shift from the electronic transitions, to the plasmon resonance, and finally to the coupled-plasmon absorption. The Raman micromaps, on the other hand, evidence huge intensity inhomogeneities which we relate to “hot spots.” Numerical discrete dipole approximation calculations including the interaction between gold nanoparticles are presented, providing a qualitative model for the coupled-plasmon absorption and redshifted Raman hot spots in these samples.
Chemical potentials and phase equilibria of Lennard-Jones mixtures: A self-consistent integral equation approach
Authors: Wilson D. Scott , Lee Lloyd L.
Published: August 2005

We explore the vapor-liquid phase behavior of binary mixtures of Lennard-Jones-type molecules where one component is supercritical, given the system temperature. We apply the self-consistency approach to the Ornstein–Zernike integral equations to obtain the correlation functions. The consistency checks include not only thermodynamic consistencies (pressure consistency and Gibbs–Duhem consistency), but also pointwise consistencies, such as the zero-separation theorems on the cavity functions. The consistencies are enforced via the bridge functions in the closure which contain adjustable parameters. The full solution requires the values of not only the monomer chemical potentials, but also the dimer chemical potentials present in the zero-separation theorems. These are evaluated by the direct chemical-potential formula [L. L. Lee, J. Chem. Phys. 97, 8606 (1992)] that does not require temperature nor density integration. In order to assess the integral equation accuracy, molecular-dynamics simulations are carried out alongside the states studied. The integral equation results compare well with simulation data. In phase calculations, it is important to have pressure consistency and valid chemical potentials, since the matching of phase boundaries requires the equality of the pressures and chemical potentials of both the liquid and vapor phases. The mixtures studied are methane-type and pentane-type molecules, both characterized by effective Lennard-Jones potentials. Calculations on one isotherm show that the integral equation approach yields valid answers as compared with the experimental data of Sage and Lacey. To study vapor-liquid phase behavior, it is necessary to use consistent theories; any inconsistencies, especially in pressure, will vitiate the phase boundary calculations.
Theory of inception mechanism and growth of defect-induced damage in polyethylene cable insulation
Authors: Serra S. , Montanari G. C. , Mazzanti G.
Published: August 2005

We have investigated theoretically the inception mechanism and growth of the damage inside the insulation system of a polymeric cable under working conditions. We focused, in particular, our attention on damage originating from microscopic defects such as voids. In order to clarify the implications of these defects for cable failure, we have developed a theoretical model based on the theory of electrical avalanche solving numerically its basic equations. Calculations of the ionization rates of atmospheric gas filling the voids are done as a function of the applied electric stress and void dimensions. Estimates of the energy release and local damage in polyethylene produced by the resulting hot-electron discharge are given. The developed physical model of damage growth compares reasonably well with known experimental data.
Cooperativity of dynamics of 18-crown-6 molecule forming one-dimensional chain in Cs2(18-crown-6)3[Ni(dmit)2]2
Authors: Ikeuchi Satoaki , Miyazaki Yuji , Takeda Sadamu , Akutagawa Tomoyuki , Nishihara Sadafumi , Nakamura Takayoshi , Saito Kazuya
Published: August 2005

Heat capacity of Cs2(18-crown-6)3[Ni(dmit)2]2 was measured by adiabatic calorimetry. A broad thermal anomaly was observed around 225K. The entropy gain (about 52JK−1mol−1) is much larger than that expected for twofold disordering of 18-crown-6 assumed in the previous structure analysis. The shape of thermal anomaly was qualitatively explained by a linear Ising model developed for cooperative disordering in polymers. The 18-crown-6 molecules forming a one-dimensional chain in the crystal are orientationally disordered with moderate cooperativity.
Electrical characterization of directionally solidified polycrystalline silicon
Authors: Bonfiglietti A. , Valletta A. , Gaucci P. , Mariucci L. , Fortunato G. , Brotherton S. D.
Published: August 2005

An investigation has been undertaken of polycrystalline silicon (poly-Si) thin-film transistors (TFTs) using sequential laterally solidified material. This material has a location-controlled distribution of grain boundaries (GBs), which makes it particularly useful for the investigation of their influence on the performance of poly-Si TFTs, and to address the issue of the role of spatially localized trapping states. The experimental results showed that the specific location of the GBs had a minimal effect upon TFT performance, and most aspects of TFT performance could be accurately simulated using a spatially uniform distribution of states. The conclusion to arise from this study is that, with the exception of field-effect mobility, there are no features in the device behavior, which must be specifically attributed to the spatial localization of trapping states. A limited comparison with conventional laser-crystallized poly-Si was undertaken, and, in this material, it was found that the effects of trap localization were apparent.
Towards addressable organic impedance switch devices
Authors: Jakobsson Fredrik L. E. , Crispin Xavier , Berggren Magnus
Published: August 2005

The addressability of organic impedance switch devices as the memory elements of cross-point matrices is improved by introducing nonlinear behavior in their current-voltage characteristics. This is realized by adding a semiconducting layer of copper (II) phthalocyanine (CuPc) on top of the switch layer of Rose Bengal (RB) sodium salt. Leakage currents from unaddressed cells in a matrix are reduced by a factor of 17; thus improving the signal-to-background ratio, reducing driver currents and limiting the potential drop along the addressing lines. The matrix size of RB switch devices, using organic conductors, is predicted to be increased by 32 times when using the additional CuPc layer.
Current-controlled lithography on conducting SrTiO3−δ thin films by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Pellegrino L. , Bellingeri E. , Siri A. S. , Marré D.
Published: August 2005

The application of local anodic oxidation to conducting perovskite oxides such as SrTiO3−δ thin films causes a local decomposition of the films shown by the formation of mounds at the surface. The size of the patterns is limited by the dimension of the water meniscus which forms under the biased tip of the atomic force microscope (AFM). Due to the instabilities of the water meniscus, biasing with a constant voltage in contact mode does not guarantee a good uniformity of the patterns. In this work, we show and discuss how, by controlling the electrical current through the AFM tip, it is possible to realize lines with uniform widths down to 150 nm over a total length of hundreds of micrometers.
Dynamic covalent and supramolecular direction of the synthesis and reassembly of copper(I) complexes
Authors: Schultz David , Nitschke Jonathan R.
Published: August 2005

The technique of subcomponent self-assembly has been applied to the preparation of a set of copper(I) complexes from diamines and aldehydes in aqueous solution. These complexes may be synthesized alongside one another in solution despite the chemical nonorthogonality of their respective starting materials; thermodynamic equilibration eliminates all mixed products. The reactivity of these complexes has been studied, revealing that in certain cases, the substitution of both ligands and ligand subcomponents could be independently carried out. In one particular case, a complex was shown to be inert to ligand substitution but readily underwent ligand subcomponent substitution, creating the possibility of a previously undocumented kind of cascade reaction: Once ligand subcomponent substitution had occurred, ligand exchange could then happen, allowing both reactions to be triggered by a single chemical event.
Contribution of T cell receptor affinity to overall avidity for virus-specific CD8+T cell responses
Authors: Kedzierska Katherine , La Gruta Nicole L. , Davenport Miles P. , Turner Stephen J. , Doherty Peter C.
Published: August 2005

Prior analysis has characterized the clonal characteristics of effector CD8+T cells specific for the prominent influenza A virus nucleoprotein (NP) and acid polymerase (PA) peptides presented by H2Db. Using a single-cell approach and determination of CDR3β profiles, a limited, predominantly “public” repertoire was found for CD8+DbNP366+Vβ8.3+cells, whereas diverse and “private” T cell antigen receptor (TCR)β clonotypes were typical of the CD8+DbPA224+Vβ7+response. This single-cell approach has now been used to relate the contributions of particular clonotypes (or affinities) to high-avidity TCRs, as defined by binding under conditions of limiting tetramer availability. At least by the measure of CDR3β usage, no difference could be found between total and high-avidity populations in the spectrum of TCR-pMHC affinities throughout the limited, and relatively public, CD8+DbNP366+Vβ8.3+populations. Conversely, the more even (by clone size), diverse, and private CD8+DbPA224+Vβ7+response was characterized by the clear partitioning of the largest T cell clones in the high-avidity compartment. These results suggest that the relatively constrained CD8+DbNP366+Vβ8.3+set utilizes a relatively narrow range of affinities, whereas the broader CD8+DbPA224+Vβ7+response is induced at a range of TCR-pMHC affinities. Thus, whereas TCR sequence (or affinity) appears to contribute substantially to the avidity profile of diverse virus-specific CD8+populations, other mechanisms may be prominent where the TCR spectrum is more limited.
The doublesex-related gene,
XDmrt4
, is required for neurogenesis in the olfactory system
Authors: Huang Xiao , Hong Chang-Soo , O'Donnell Michael , Saint-Jeannet Jean-Pierre
Published: August 2005

The
Dmrt
genes encode a large family of transcription factors whose function in sexual development has been well studied. However, their expression pattern is not restricted to the gonad, suggesting that
Dmrt
genes might regulate other developmental processes. Here, we report the expression and functional analysis of one member of this family:
Xenopus Dmrt4
(
XDmrt4
).
XDmrt4
is initially expressed in the anterior neural ridge and then becomes progressively restricted to part of the telencephalon and the olfactory placode/epithelium.
XDmrt4
is induced at the anterior neural plate by a balance of neural inducers and caudalizing factors. Interference with
XDmrt4
function by injection of a morpholino oligonucleotide or an inhibitory mutant resulted in a similar phenotype, the specific disruption of the olfactory placode expression of Xebf2 without affecting the expression of other placodal markers. Xebf2 belongs to a family of helix–loop–helix transcription factors implicated in neuronal differentiation, and later in embryogenesis
XDmrt4
-deficient embryos show impaired neurogenesis in the olfactory epithelium. Consistent with this finding,
XDmrt4
is sufficient to activate neurogenin, Xebf2, and neural cell adhesion molecule expression in animal explants and is required for Noggin-mediated neuralization. Altogether, these results indicate that
XDmrt4
is an important regulator of neurogenesis in the olfactory system upstream of neurogenin and Xebf2.
Viruses activate a genetically conserved cell death pathway in a unicellular organism
Authors: Ivanovska Iva , Hardwick J. Marie
Published: August 2005

Given the importance of apoptosis in the pathogenesis of virus infections in mammals, we investigated the possibility that unicellular organisms also respond to viral pathogens by activating programmed cell death. The M1 and M2 killer viruses of Saccharomyces cerevisiae encode pore-forming toxins that were assumed to kill uninfected yeast cells by a nonprogrammed assault. However, we found that yeast persistently infected with these killer viruses induce a programmed suicide pathway in uninfected (nonself) yeast. The M1 virus–encoded K1 toxin is primarily but not solely responsible for triggering the death pathway. Cell death is mediated by the mitochondrial fission factor Dnm1/Drp1, the K+ channel Tok1, and the yeast metacaspase Yca1/Mca1 encoded by the target cell and conserved in mammals. In contrast, cell death is inhibited by yeast Fis1, a pore-forming outer mitochondrial membrane protein. This virus–host relationship in yeast resembles that of pathogenic human viruses that persist in their infected host cells but trigger programmed death of uninfected cells.
Discovery, validation, and genetic dissection of transcription factor binding sites by comparative and functional genomics
Authors: Gertz Jason , Riles Linda , Turnbaugh Peter , Ho Su-Wen , Cohen Barak A.
Published: August 2005

Completing the annotation of a genome sequence requires identifying the regulatory sequences that control gene expression. To identify these sequences, we developed an algorithm that searches for short, conserved sequence motifs in the genomes of related species. The method is effective in finding motifs de novo and for refining known regulatory motifs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We tested one novel motif prediction of the algorithm and found it to be the binding site of Stp2; it is significantly different from the previously predicted Stp2 binding site. We show that Stp2 physically interacts with this sequence motif, and that stp2 mutations affect the expression of genes associated with the motif. We demonstrate that the Stp2 binding site also interacts genetically with Stp1, a regulator of amino acid permease genes and, with Sfp1, a key regulator of cell growth. These results illuminate an important transcriptional circuit that regulates cell growth through external nutrient uptake.
Resistance to photoinhibition of photosystem II and catalase and antioxidative protection in high mountain plants
Authors: STREB P. , FEIERABEND J. , BLIGNY R.
Published: August 2005

In leaves of three alpine high mountain plants, Homogyne alpina, Ranunculus glacialis and Soldanella alpina, both photosystem II (PSII) and the enzyme catalase appeared to he highly resistant to photoinactivation under natural field conditions. While the Dl protein of PSII and catalase have a rapid turnover in light and require continuous new protein synthesis in non‐adapted plants, little apparent photoinactivation of PSII or catalase was induced in the alpine plants by translation inhibitors or at low temperature, suggesting that turnover of the Dl protein and catalase was slow in these leaves. In vitro PSII was rapidly inactivated in light in isolated thylakoids from H. alpina and R. glacialis. In isolated intact chloroplasts from R. glacialis, photoinactivation of PSII was slower than in thylakoids. Partially purified catalase from R. glacialis and S. alpina was as sensitive to photoinactivation in vitro as catalases from other sources. Catalase from H. alpina had, however, a 10‐fold higher stability in light. The levels of xanthophyll cycle carotenoids, of the antioxidants ascorbate and glulathione, and of the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase were very high in S. alpina, intermediate in H. alpina, but very low in R. glacialis. However, isolated chloroplasts from all three alpine species contained much higher concentrations of ascorbate and glutathione than chloroplasts from lowland plants.
Age‐ and infection‐related maturation of the nasal immune response in 0–2‐year‐old children
Authors: van Benten I. J. , van Drunen C. M. , Koopman L. P. , van Middelkoop B. C. , Hop W. C. J. , Osterhaus A. D. M. E. , Neijens H. J. , Fokkens W. J.
Published: August 2005

Background:  The hygiene hypothesis suggests that exposure to micro‐organisms influences development of the immune system in children.

Methods:  In this study, we examined nasal immune responses in the first 2 years of life in relation to age of children and the number of viral infections they have experienced. Nasal brushes were taken during rhinovirus‐ (n = 20) or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)‐induced (n = 7) upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), and of controls (n = 40).

Results:  The number of macrophages were higher during URTI and increased with age. The number of T lymphocytes increased with age in controls and were higher during URTI at all ages. We found an age‐related decrease in the number of interleukin (IL)‐4‐ and IL‐10‐positive cells in controls, while the number of IL‐12‐positive cells remained unchanged. Changes in T lymphocyte and IL‐4 cell number were stronger related to the age of the child than to the number of respiratory infections, while the opposite was true for macrophages.

Conclusions:  In infants, we found an infection‐ and age‐related increase respectively for nasal macrophages and T lymphocytes during URTI. Furthermore, the number of IL‐4‐ and IL‐10‐positive cells decreased with age. Whether this maturation reflects a natural age‐related maturation, the degree of exposure to respiratory infections, or possibly both, could not be resolved and needs further study.
A local strain method for the evaluation of welded joints fatigue resistance: the case of thin main‐plates thickness
Authors: CASAVOLA C. , NOBILE R. , PAPPALETTERE C.
Published: August 2005

Current procedures for evaluating fatigue strength of welded structures may not be consistent with the real fatigue behaviour of welded joints. A local strain method for the prediction of the WELded joints FAtigue REsistance (WELFARE), by local strain measurements at the weld toe, was recently proposed on the basis of fatigue tests on more than 10 series of welded joints (T, cruciform, angular and butt joints) in structural steel, with 10–25 mm main‐plate thickness. This paper reports fatigue test results obtained from 30 cruciform and butt welded joints (3–5 mm thick) under two load ratios (0.1 and −1) in order to extend the applicability of the method to thin welded joints.
The EIFS distribution for anodized and pre‐corroded 7010‐T7651 under constant amplitude loading
Authors: CRAWFORD B. R. , LOADER C. , WARD A. R. , URBANI C. , BACHE M. R. , SPENCE S. H. , HAY D. G. , EVANS W. J. , CLARK G. , STONHAM A. J.
Published: August 2005

This paper reports results from SICAS, an experimental programme to evaluate the effectiveness of the equivalent initial flaw size (EIFS) approach in managing the structural integrity effects of pitting corrosion. Fatigue crack growth and life tests were conducted on anodized and pre‐corroded 7010‐T7651. The corrosion pits that initiated fatigue were then measured using the SEM. These data were analysed statistically to identify the pit geometric parameter(s) that influenced fatigue life. Projected pit area had the strongest effect, while pit depth and pit width were each statistically insignificant. The EIFS distribution for corroded 7010‐T7651 was then calculated. Examination of the probability distribution of the ratio of EIFS area to pit area allowed the derivation of a scatter factor that gave safely conservative fatigue life predictions for the corroded material.
A new method for assessing high‐temperature crack growth
Authors: FOOKES A. J. , SMITH D. J.
Published: August 2005

Experimental creep crack growth (CCG) test data are obtained by following standards that characterize CCG rates using the C* parameter. Such data are then used in high‐temperature failure assessment procedures. An alternative approach to defect assessment at high‐temperature failure is an extension of the R6 failure assessment diagram (FAD). At high temperature, creep toughness, Kcmat, can be estimated from CCG tests and replaces low‐temperature toughness in R6. This approach has the advantage that it is not necessary to establish a creep fracture regime, such as small‐scale, primary or widespread creep. Also, a new strain‐based FAD has been developed, potentially allowing variations of stress and temperature to be accommodated. In this paper, the results of a series of crack growth tests performed on ex‐service 316H stainless steel at 550 °C are examined in the light of the limitations imposed by ASTM for CCG testing. The results are then explored in terms of toughness and presented in FADs.
On the transfer of specimen J–R curve to piping components with throughwall circumferential flaw
Authors: PAVANKUMAR T. V. , CHATTOPADHYAY J. , DUTTA B. K. , KUSHWAHA H. S.
Published: August 2005

Transferability of the specimen J–R/J–T curve to the component level is an important issue in the field of fracture mechanics. Towards this goal, fracture experiments have been carried out on single‐edge bend (SE(B)) and compact tension (CT) specimens and throughwall circumferentially cracked straight pipes/elbows of 200 mm nominal bore (NB) diameter. The pipe material is SA 333 Gr 6 steel (low strength and high toughness material) and specimens are machined from the pipes. Subsequently, elastic–plastic finite‐element analyses have been carried out on these cracked components/specimens in order to evaluate the stress triaxiality levels. It is found that the triaxial levels for these cracked components are similar. Hence, similar fracture behaviour is expected for these components. Consequently, one of the pipe J–R curves is used as a reference J–R curve to consider the crack growth in the analysis and the load deformation behaviour of other pipes/elbows is predicted. The load deformation behaviour of the piping components is also predicted using an extrapolated J–R curve from a specimen that exhibits the similar triaxiality level to that of the cracked components. The predicted results are in good agreement with the experiments.
The transition to work of newly qualified speech and language therapists: implications for the curriculum
Authors: Brumfitt Shelagh M. , Enderby Pam M. , Hoben Kirsten
Published: August 2005

Upon qualifying with a speech and language therapy degree, the therapist has to be prepared to work with a wide range of client groups and to cope within a specific work context. Little research has been carried out on the effectiveness of their training programme and the extent to which it meets the needs of employers or individual therapists. This study reports on the views of managers of newly qualified speech and language therapists and on the newly qualified speech and language therapists themselves. The results showed that different issues were highlighted by the two groups and indicated the importance and value of applied knowledge and placement learning. Managers and newly qualified therapists agreed that general work skills, such as administration, required some workplace learning, some of which might be pursued in non‐clinical settings. Bridging the gap between clinical theoretical study and clinical application was another theme in common with newly qualified therapists, who suggested that observed clinical practice with feedback assisted them substantially in this area. Cooperation between universities and health service managers is needed to plan smoother pathways into full‐time employment.
Exploiting learning moments: varying forms of educational supervision in basic surgical education
Authors: Brigley Stephen J. , Robbé Iain J.
Published: August 2005

Educational supervision by hospital consultants continues to be a central support for the learning in practice of junior doctors. Among medical educators, the consensus view is that the quality of clinically based teaching will be uplifted by the introduction of learner‐centred, facilitative methods. However, a qualitative evaluation of the surgical education of senior house officers (SHOs) has produced evidence that surgeon educators (SEs) worked with varying teaching perspectives as they adapted their supervisory practice to particular service conditions. The teaching of surgical trainees was a pragmatic art, involving shifting judgements in which SEs integrated knowledge content and pedagogic skills with the trainee's needs in a given context. This ability to move flexibly, and sometimes rapidly, around a wide repertoire of teaching expertise will be essential if SEs are to assist junior doctors in making sense of surgical experiences in increasingly restrictive and unpredictable service conditions.
Is Epilepsy Surgery Possible in Countries with Limited Resources'
Authors: Rao Malla Bhaskara , Radhakrishnan Kurupath
Published: August 2005

Summary: This study illustrates the outcome and cost‐effectiveness of anterior temporal lobectomy (ATL) among patients with medically refractory temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) treated in an epilepsy center in Kerala, South India. Patients for ATL were selected on the basis of a noninvasive protocol comprising clinical, interictal scalp electroencephalogram (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging, and ictal video‐EEG data. The authors compared the outcome and direct cost of 119 patients (mean age, 25·6 years; mean duration of epilepsy before ATL, 16·1 years) who have completed at least 1 year follow‐up after ATL with 71 refractory TLE patients (mean age, 27·1 years; mean duration of epilepsy, 15·4 years) who did not undergo ATL. Patients in the study who underwent ATL had a 70% likelihood of becoming seizure‐free after ATL and a 30% chance of being completely off of antiepileptic drug treatment within 3 years after ATL. The out‐of‐pocket one‐time payment for ATL (including presurgical evaluation) in this setup is Indian Rupees (INR) 47,000 (US$ 1,200). The total direct medical cost of caring for TLE patients aged 26 to 60 years would be INR 200,000 (US$ 5,000). Patients freed from seizures often can be better employed and achieve an improved quality of life. It is concluded that ATL for refractory TLE is a more costeffective option than continued medical treatment. Epilepsy surgery is not only possible in a developing country but can also be undertaken in a cost‐effective way.
Increased High‐frequency Oscillations Precede in vitro Low‐Mg2+ Seizures
Authors: Khosravani Houman , Pinnegar C. Robert , Mitchell J. Ross , Bardakjian Berj L. , Federico Paolo , Carlen Peter L.
Published: August 2005

Summary:  Purpose: High‐frequency oscillations (HFOs) in the range of ≥80 Hz have been recorded in neocortical and hippocampal brain structures in vitro and in vivo and have been associated with physiologic and epileptiform neuronal population activity. Frequencies in the fast‐ripple range (>200 Hz) are believed to be exclusive to epileptiform activity and have been recorded in vitro, in vivo, and in epilepsy patients. Although the presence of HFOs is well characterized, their temporal evolution in the context of transition to seizure activity is not well understood.

Methods: With an in vitro low‐magnesium model of spontaneous seizures, we obtained extracellular field recordings (hippocampal regions CA1 and CA3) of interictal, preictal, and ictal activity. Recordings were subjected to power–frequency analysis, in time, by using a local multiscale Fourier transform. The power spectrum was computed continuously and was quantified for each epileptiform discharge into four frequency ranges spanning subripple, ripple, and two fast‐ripple frequency bands.

Results: A statistically significant increasing trend was observed in the subripple (0–100 Hz), ripple (100–200 Hz), and fast‐ripple 1 (200–300 Hz) frequency bands during the epoch corresponding to the transition to seizure (preictal to ictal).

Conclusions: Temporal patterns of HFOs during epileptiform activity are indicative of dynamic changes in network behavior, and their characterization may offer insights into pathophysiologic processes underlying seizure initiation.
Familial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy as a Presenting Feature of Choreoacanthocytosis
Authors: Al‐Asmi Abdullah , Jansen An C. , Badhwar AmanPreet , Dubeau François , Tampieri Donatella , Shustik Chaim , Mercho Suha , Savard Ghislaine , Dobson‐Stone Carol , Monaco Anthony P. , Andermann Frederick , Andermann Eva
Published: August 2005

Summary:  Purpose: Choreoacanthocytosis (ChAc) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in VPS13A on chromosome 9q21 and characterized by neurodegeneration and red cell acanthocytosis. Seizures are not uncommon in ChAc but have not been well characterized in the literature. We report two ChAc families in which patients presented with temporal lobe epilepsy.

Methods: Detailed medical and family histories were obtained. EEG, video‐telemetry, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with volumetric studies of amygdala and hippocampus, as well as neuropsychological testing were performed. Blood smears were examined for acanthocytosis. Mutation analysis of VPS13A was carried out in five patients.

Results: Six patients in three sibships were initially seen with seizures. Age at seizure onset ranged from 22 to 38 years. Seizures preceded other clinical manifestations of ChAc by ≤15 years. The epileptic aura consisted of a sensation of déjà‐vu, fear, hallucinations, palpitations, or vertigo. EEG with video‐telemetry showed epileptiform discharges originating either from one or both temporal lobes. Epilepsy was generally well controlled, but some patients had periods of increased seizure frequency requiring treatment with multiple antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Both families shared a deletion of exons 70–73 of VPS13A, extending to exons 6–7 of GNA14.

Conclusions: Temporal lobe epilepsy may be the presenting feature of ChAc and may delay its diagnosis. Epilepsy in ChAc patients represents a challenge, because seizures may at times be difficult to control, and some AEDs may worsen the involuntary movements. Mutations in VPS13A or GNA14 or both may be associated with clinical features of temporal lobe epilepsy.
Sonolucent Space Posterior to Left Atrium: Unusual Echocardiographic Appearance in a Cardiac Transplant Patient
Authors: Malhotra Amit , Khouzam Rami N. , Minderman Daniel , D'Cruz Ivan A.
Published: August 2005

The usual echocardiographic appearances of the atria in heart transplant patients are well known. We report a case of an 81‐year‐old man with a 16‐year‐old cardiac transplant who showed a “new” echocardiographic left atrial abnormality. Two‐dimensional echocardiography showed a large sonolucent space behind the donor left atrium (DLA), which was at first perplexing. This space, the distorted and partly displaced recipient left atrium (RLA), could be shown to communicate with the donor left atrium, by the use of unconventional imaging and by optison opacification.
Tests and Medical Conditions Associated with Dementia Diagnosis
Authors: Burt Diana B. , Primeaux‐Hart Sharon , Loveland Katherine A. , Cleveland Lynne A. , Lewis Kay R. , Lesser Jary , Pearson Pamela L.
Published: August 2005

Abstract  Diagnosis of dementia in adults with intellectual disabilities requires documentation of clinically significant declines in memory and other cognitive skills, as well as changes in everyday and emotional functioning. To improve diagnostic accuracy in adults with Down syndrome, the authors examined conditions often associated with dementia, as well as tests useful for documentation of decline. Specific aims were to identify psychiatric disorders or medical conditions that increased the odds of a dementia diagnosis; to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of widely used dementia scales; and to determine which tests, used singly or in combination, most accurately supported the presence of dementia. Participants were 78 adults with Down syndrome. Two methods based on a large test battery and one method based on clinical judgment were used to diagnose dementia. It was found that combinations of tests lead to increased levels of diagnostic sensitivity compared with single tests. When taken in combination with other investigations, our results suggest that assessment for psychiatric disorders, delayed memory decline, adaptive behavior decline, and the presence of seizures would be useful for the diagnosis of dementia and that dementia scales would provide additional useful information. The authors conclude that combinations of tests and scales will be most useful for diagnosing dementia in adults with intellectual disabilities. The authors suggest that further research is needed to promote rapid progress, with studies that focus on common diagnostic methodology, identification of screening instruments, and amounts of decline indicative of dementia.
HIV antibody seroprevalence in the emergency department at Port Moresby General Hospital, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Curry Chris , Bunungam Paul , Annerud Carolyn , Babona Diro
Published: August 2005

Objective:  To determine the prevalence of HIV antibody in patients presenting to the ED at Port Moresby General Hospital in Papua New Guinea.

Method:  Three hundred patients in whom blood samples were taken for investigation of illness or injury between April and July 2003 were surveyed for HIV antibodies. Sex, age and presenting illness were recorded.

Results:  Fifty‐four tests (18%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 14–23%) were positive. Forty‐seven per cent were men and 53% were women. The most common presenting illnesses were respiratory tract infections (37%) and gastrointestinal tract infections (26%). Because of resource constraints results were not linked to patients and there was no follow up.

Conclusion:  These limited data support the prediction that the developing HIV/AIDS epidemic in Papua New Guinea will be serious.