bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Portfolios: Purposeful Collections of Student Work
Authors: Mullin Joan A.
Published: July 2004

For many professors, portfolios are flexible enough to serve their own purposes as well as the purposes of the curriculum. Portfolios also meet the current call for authentic assessment of students' skills and performance.
Grading Inquiry Projects
Authors: Busching Beverly
Published: July 2004

Rubric‐based assessment, an effective tool for grading inquiry projects, entails students using multiple investigative methods to formulate and pursue questions of personal interest.
Grading Student Performance in Real‐World Settings
Authors: Scanlon Patricia A. , Ford Michael P.
Published: July 2004

Using a variety of sources of information collected over time in the professional
context by the field agency supervisor, the instructor, and the student
ensures a more informed professional judgment than traditional tests and
score sheets.
Do Classroom Assessment Techniques (CATs) Improve Student Learning?
Authors: Cottell Philip , Harwood Elaine
Published: July 2004

This chapter illustrates how two instructors went about assessing the use of
CATs in their accounting classes and found some surprising results.
A Minnesota Story: A System Approach to Classroom Assessment and Research
Authors: Peterson Joel , Stack Connie
Published: July 2004

Being able to marshal the physical and personnel resources from an entire
system assists in the spread of Classroom Assessment beyond its initial
users.
Brave New World? The Challenge of Technology to Time‐Honored Pedagogies and Traditional Structures
Authors: Gandolfo Anita
Published: July 2004

The new technologies lead us to question our academic structures and
processes, but effective implementation of the technologies and positive
changes in our traditions will occur only if we incorporate basic research
about teaching and learning into discussions and planning.
Overcoming Obstacles Through Use: A Case Study
Authors: Carey Karen T. , Dorn Shelly M.
Published: July 2004

This in‐depth description of the Joint Doctoral Program in Educational
Leadership provides a case study of effective ways to enhance technological
literacy through technology‐assisted small groups.
Using Technology in Faculty Development: Practical Examples
Authors: Gillespie Kay Herr
Published: July 2004

Selected examples of faculty development activities demonstrate technology's
potential for inducing change and also illustrate the ideas and themes
of this sourcebook.
Complete duplication of urinary bladder and urethra: prenatal sonographic features
Authors: Boopathy Vijayaraghavan S. , Nirmala A. B.
Published: July 2004

Prenatal sonographic features of the rare anomaly of complete duplication of the urinary bladder and urethra are described in this case report. A coronal scan of the fetal pelvis at 29 weeks of gestation revealed two pyriform cystic structures. The umbilical arteries coursed around both of them. They emptied independently of each other. Postnatally the newborn had two vulvae, two anal openings, two bladders and two uteri. Copyright © 2004 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EDXRF analysis of red and white wines from Brazil
Authors: Anjos M. J. , Barroso R. C. , Lopes R. T. , de Jesus E. F. O. , Simabuco S. M. , Castro C. R. F.
Published: July 2004

Several wines produced in different regions in southern Brazil and commercially available in Rio de Janeiro were analyzed for their contents of elements such as V, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Mo and Pb. Multielement analysis was carried out with simple sample preparation and subsequent analysis by EDXRF spectrometry. The liquid residue was pre‐concentrated with the use of a chelating agent (ammonium pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate) and filtered through a Millipore filter (0.45 µm) by a vacuum pump. The experimental setup is based on a low‐power (2.25 W) miniaturized x‐ray tube and an Si(Li) detector. The levels of the various elements in the Brazilian wines are lower than those generally found in the literature, with the exception of Mo. The present study indicates the capability of multielement analysis for determining the contents of various elements present in wines by using a simple, sensitive and precise method. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of C-kit in Ewing Family of Tumors: A Comparison of Different Immunohistochemical Protocols
Authors: Ahmed Atif , Gilbert-Barness Enid , Lacson Atilano
Published: July 2004

Ewing sarcoma is a small round blue cell tumor with a high incidence of metastasis and poor survival. The tyrosine kinase receptor, c-kit, is a growth factor receptor that is expressed in a variety of tumors including Ewing sarcoma. Blockade of c-kit by imatinib mesylate (Gleevec; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp, East Hanover, NJ) has been successfully used in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia and gastrointestinal tumors. Detection of c-kit expression in Ewing sarcoma indicates a possible role of c-kit in tumor progression and a potential use of anti-c-kit therapy in Ewing sarcoma. Ki-67 is a proliferation marker found at all stages of the cell cycle. Expression of c-kit and Ki-67 was studied in 17 patients with Ewing sarcoma. Sections from paraffin-embedded tumor samples were immunostained, using standard immunohistochemical protocols, with c-kit and Ki-67 monoclonal antibodies, polyclonal c-kit antibody without antigen retrieval, and c-kit polyclonal antibody with antigen retrieval. Eleven out of 17 cases (65%) stained with c-kit monoclonal antibody; the staining was diffuse in 6/17 (35%) cases. C-kit expression did not correlate with Ki-67 proliferation rates. Using the polyclonal c-kit-antibody without antigen retrieval methods, c-kit expression was demonstrated in 1/11 (9%) cases. Incorporating antigen retrieval methods, c-kit expression increased to 53%. Concordance between monoclonal antibodies in detecting c-kit expression was observed in 12/17 cases (71%). We conclude that c-kit is variably expressed in Ewing sarcoma, using either monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies. Detection of c-kit expression in Ewing sarcoma improves with the use of antigen retrieval methods.
Presence of different phospholipase C isoforms in the nucleus and their activation during compensatory liver growth
Authors: Crljen Vladiana , Višnjić Dora , Banfić Hrvoje
Published: July 2004

Phospholipase C (PLC) was purified from the membrane‐depleted rat liver nuclei. About 60% of the total PLC‐activity corresponded to β1b isoform, 30% to PLC‐γ1 and less than 10% to PLC‐δ1. PLC‐β1b and ‐γ1 were found in the nuclear matrix, while PLC‐δ1 was detected in the chromatin. Two peaks of an increase in the total PLC‐activity were detected occurring at 6 and 20 h after partial hepatectomy. An early increase in PLC‐β1b activity in the nuclear matrix was associated with serine phosphorylation of the enzyme, while the later increase paralleled the increase in the amount of protein. The increase in the PLC‐γ1 activity measured at 6 and 20 h after partial hepatectomy was associated with tyrosine phosphorylation of the enzyme. The activity of PLC‐δ1 and the amount of the protein found in the chromatin was increased only at 20 h after partial hepatectomy.
Secessionism in Multicultural States: Does Sharing Power Prevent or Encourage It?
Authors: LUSTICK IAN S. , MIODOWNIK DAN , EIDELSON ROY J.
Published: July 2004

Institutional frameworks powerfully determine the goals, violence, and trajectories of identitarian movements—including secessionist movements. However, both small-Nand large-Nresearchers disagree on the question of whether “power-sharing” arrangements, instead of repression, are more or less likely to mitigate threats of secessionist mobilizations by disaffected, regionally concentrated minority groups. The PS-I modeling platform was used to create a virtual country “Beita,” containing within it a disaffected, partially controlled, regionally concentrated minority. Drawing on constructivist identity theory to determine behaviors by individual agents in Beita, the most popular theoretical positions on this issue were tested. Data were drawn from batches of hundreds of Beita histories produced under rigorous experimental conditions. The results lend support to sophisticated interpretations of the effects of repression vs. responsive or representative types of power-sharing. Although in the short run repression works to suppress ethnopolitical mobilization, it does not effectively reduce the threat of secession. Power-sharing can be more effective, but it also tends to encourage larger minority identitarian movements.
Athenian Democracy and Legal Change
Authors: SCHWARTZBERG MELISSA
Published: July 2004

The ancient Athenians regarded their ability to modify their laws as a fundamentally democratic trait; indeed, the faculty of “pragmatic innovation” was well known throughout the Greek world and was widely viewed as a key advantage that Athens had over its rival, Sparta. The Athenian commitment to legal change endured despite disastrous consequences at the end of the fifth century, a comprehensive revision of the laws, and the complication of legal procedure in the fourth century. In an apparent paradox, however, the Athenians also used “entrenchment clauses” to make certain laws immutable. Through analysis of entrenched laws and decrees, it is shown that the innovativeness that made Athens enviable also made it a difficult ally; entrenchment enabled the Athenians to make its commitments more credible. Although today entrenchment is typically used to protect crucial constitutional provisions, such as rights, in the ancient world it served a strategic purpose.
ASYMPTOTIC BEHAVIOUR AND BLOW-UP FOR A NONLINEAR DIFFUSION PROBLEM WITH A NON-LOCAL SOURCE TERM
Authors: Kavallaris N. I.
Published: July 2004

In this work, the behaviour of solutions for the Dirichlet problem of the non-local equation

$$ u_t=\varDelta(\kappa(u))+\frac{\lambda f(u)}{(\int_{\varOmega}f(u)\,\mathrm{d}x)^p},\quad \varOmega\subset\mathbb{R}^N,\quad N=1,2, $$

is studied, mainly for the case where $f(s)=\mathrm{e}^{\kappa(s)}$. More precisely, the interplay of exponent $p$ of the non-local term and spatial dimension $N$ is investigated with regard to the existence and non-existence of solutions of the associated steady-state problem as well as the global existence and finite-time blow-up of the time-dependent solutions $u(x,t)$. The asymptotic stability of the steady-state solutions is also studied.

AMS 2000 Mathematics subject classification: Primary 35K60. Secondary 35B40
Metadolerite geochronology and dolerite geochemistry from East Finnmark, northern Scandinavian Caledonides
Authors: RICE A. H. N. , NTAFLOS T. , GAYER R. A. , BECKINSALE R. D.
Published: July 2004

Dolerite dykes in the East Finnmark Scandinavian Caledonides form three geochemical suites: Digermulhalvøya–Magerøya – WNW–ESE-trending, c. 337–332 Ma, possibly also c. 293 Ma, continental within-plate; East Varangerhalvøya – NE–SW and N–S, c. 376 Ma, continental plate-margin; Styret – NE–SW, also c. 376 Ma, chemically intermediate to the other two groups. New K–Ar data from metadolerites on Varangerhalvøya give a 7-point ‘lower envelope’ isochron of 577 ± 14 Ma (MSWD 1.04). This is concordant with a published upper intercept U–Pb zircon age (567+30−23 Ma) from an East Varangerhalvøya dolerite, here re-interpreted to reflect Neoproterozoic basement fracturing contemporaneous with the emplacement of the metadolerites. Intrusion of the younger dolerites at c. 376 Ma reactivated this trend, and may be responsible for the published zircon lower intercept age of 392+25−36 Ma. Clarification of the intrusion and structural chronology, integrated with extensive new geochemical data, enables a better understanding of the evolution of this part of the Scandinavian Caledonides.
Linking Paleogene denudation and magmatic underplating beneath the British Isles
Authors: TILEY RICHARD , WHITE NICKY , AL-KINDI SULEIMAN
Published: July 2004

A simple flexural model is used to explore the relationship between magmatic underplating and denudation. First, we show how denudation can be calculated as a function of underplating. The distribution and density of underplate are obviously important parameters in determining the wavelength and amplitude of denudation. However, the denudational pattern can be considerably modulated by the flexural rigidity of the lithosphere. Several other parameters also play a significant role. For example, we show how variations in pre-existing bathymetry and in present-day topography affect denudational calculations. We have applied our simple algorithm to the problem of Paleogene underplating beneath the British Isles. Forward and inverse modelling of travel-time data from a wide-angle seismic experiment which traversed the British Isles suggests that a large pod of high velocity material occurs at Moho depths beneath the Irish Sea. The shape and inferred density of this pod are used to calculate the amplitude and wavelength of denudation for different flexural rigidities. We compare our predictions with the observed pattern of Paleogene denudation and conclude that the bulk of the observed denudation can be accounted for by magmatic underplating associated in a general way with the Iceland Plume. Notwithstanding this agreement, there is compelling evidence for additional mild uplift events especially during the Neogene. These mild events may reflect fluctuating dynamic topography associated with the Iceland Plume.
Monadic definites and polydefinites: their form, meaning and use
Authors: KOLLIAKOU DIMITRA
Published: July 2004

This paper focuses on two types of definites in Greek – MONADICS and POLYDEFINITES – and provides a constraint-based account of their form, meaning and use. Specifically, I discuss three core issues that have not been addressed in previous work. First, the special pragmatic import of polydefinites. These are associated with contextual constraints that go beyond the uniqueness entailments of standard (monadic) definites. Their idiosyncratic morphosyntax achieves effects similar to those induced in other languages solely by prosodic means and illustrated by phenomena subsumed within the term DEACCENTING. Second, the morphosyntax of definites. I argue that the Greek definite article can be best analysed as a PHRASALAFFIX, and provide a composition approach in the spirit of previous work couched in HPSG. Monadics and polydefinites are treated uniformly, without positing unmotivated complexity in the grammar for deriving the form of the latter. The definite concord and linear order facts that pose problems for previous analyses are directly derived and the morphosyntactic affinity between the Greek definite article and ‘weak form’ possessive is straightforwardly captured. Third, the semantics of definites. A quantificational semantics is provided that ensures that the semantic content of the definite article in polydefinites is integrated into the meaning of the sentence just once. Polydefinites are, therefore, semantically identical to monadics; the special import of the former originates from a contextual constraint on the anchoring of the index that interacts with the common morphosyntactic and semantic basis.
Constrained sentence production in probable Alzheimer disease
Authors: ALTMANN LORI J. P.
Published: July 2004

This study examines the speech of older adults with and without probable Alzheimer disease (PAD) when they produce sentences that include a verb and two nouns provided by the experimenter. Compared to healthy controls, individuals with mild PAD produced fewer correct responses as well as anomalous proportions of active and passive sentences. Responses were particularly impaired when canonical sentence structures had to be suppressed and unusual sentence structures generated. The sentence production accuracy of individuals with PAD correlated strongly with performance on a picture-naming task. The findings support a theory in which the ability to fully activate semantic representations is impaired in PAD, resulting in proportional impairments on single-word and sentence production tasks.
The effect of enhanced lexical retrieval on second language writing: A classroom experiment
Authors: SNELLINGS PATRICK , VAN GELDEREN AMOS , DE GLOPPER KEES
Published: July 2004

Lexical retrieval is an essential subprocess in language production, and its efficiency is crucial for writing. To improve writing quality in a second language, we developed an experimental, computerized training for improving fluency of lexical retrieval in a classroom setting, applying techniques previously restricted to laboratory use. In a counterbalanced design with randomized assignment, each of two groups was trained on a different set of words for productive use. A previous study showed that students in both groups attained greater fluency of lexical retrieval on the trained word set in comparison to students who were not trained on that word set. The current study provides evidence that this enhanced fluency transferred to narrative writing, as students in both groups used the trained words more often in narrative texts. In addition, one of the groups showed significant improvement in their expression of essential content elements. However, no significant differences were found on global quality ratings. The results are discussed in the context of theories of limited processing capacity during text production. We also consider the implications of these results for language instruction.
Cost-effectiveness of digital photographic screening for retinopathy of prematurity in the United Kingdom
Authors: Castillo-Riquelme Marianela C. , Lord Joanne , Moseley Merrick J. , Fielder Alistair R. , Haines Linda
Published: July 2004

Objectives:To compare the cost-effectiveness of alternative methods of screening for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in the United Kingdom, including the existing method of indirect ophthalmoscopy by ophthalmologists and digital photographic screening by nurses.

Methods:A decision tree model was used to compare five screening modalities for the UK population of preterm babies, using a health service perspective. Data were taken from published sources, observation at a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and expert judgment.

Results:We estimated that use of standard digital cameras by nurses in NICUs would cost more than current methods (£371 compared with £321 per baby screened). However, a specialist nurse visiting units with a portable camera would be cheaper (£172 per baby). These estimates rely on nurses capturing and interpreting the images, with suitable training and supervision. Alternatively, nurses could capture the images then transmit them to a central unit for interpretation by ophthalmologists, although we estimate that this would be rather more expensive (£390 and £201, respectively, for NICU and visiting nurses). Sensitivity analysis was used to examine the robustness of estimates.

Conclusions:It is likely that there is an opportunity to improve the efficiency of the ROP screening program. We estimate that screening by specialist nurses trained in image capture and interpretation using portable digital cameras is a cost-effective alternative to the current program of direct visualization by ophthalmologists. This option would require the development of a suitable portable machine. Direct comparative research is strongly needed to establish the accuracy of the various screening options.
Light deprivation suppresses the light response of inner retina in both young and adult mouse
Authors: VISTAMEHR SETAREH , TIAN NING
Published: July 2004

The retinal synaptic network continues its development after birth in mammals. Recent studies show that postnatal development of retinal circuitry depends on visual stimulation. We sought to determine whether there is a time period during which the retina shows evidence of increased plasticity. We examined the effects of light deprivation on the retinal light response of mouse retina using electroretinogram (ERG) measurements. Our results showed that dark rearing mice from birth to postnatal day (P) 30, 60, and 90 suppressed the amplitudes of oscillatory potentials (OPs) and the magnitudes of suppression were age independent. In addition, dark-rearing-produced suppression of OP amplitudes can be completely reversed in both young and adult mice by returning them to cyclic light/dark conditions for 1 to 2 weeks. However, the recovery time course was age dependent with younger animals needing a longer time to achieve a full recovery. Furthermore, dark rearing of P60 mice raised under cyclic light/dark conditions for 30 days resulted in a similar magnitude of suppression of OP amplitudes as in age-matched mice dark reared from birth. These findings demonstrate that both the normal developmental changes and the maintenance of mature inner retinal light response in adult animals require visual stimulation. These results indicate a degree of activity-dependent plasticity in mouse retina that has not been previously described.
Inhibitory interaction of cannabinoid CB1 receptor and dopamine D2 receptor agonists on voltage-gated currents of goldfish cones
Authors: FAN SHIH-FANG , YAZULLA STEPHEN
Published: July 2004

Dopamine is a light-adaptive signal that desensitizes the retina, while cannabinoids reportedly increase photosensitivity. The presynaptic membrane of goldfish retinal cones has dopamine D2 receptors and cannabinoid CB1 receptors. This work focused on whether dopamine D2 receptor agonist quinpirole and cannabinoid CB1 receptor agonist WIN 55212-2 (WIN) interacted to modulate voltage-dependent membrane currents of cones. A conventional patch-clamp method was used to record depolarization evoked whole-cell outward currents (Iout) and an inward calcium current (ICa) from the inner segment of cones in goldfish retinal slices. WIN had biphasic actions: low concentrations (<1 μM) increased the currentsviaGs, while higher concentrations (>1 μM) decreased the currentsviaGi/Go. Neither dopamine nor the D2 agonist quinpirole (1–20 μM) had a significant effect on eitherIoutorICa. Quinpirole at 50 μM had a mild suppressive (∼20%) effect onIout. However, quinpirole (<10 μM) completely blocked the enhancement of both currents seen with 0.7 μM WIN. The effect of quinpirole was blocked by sulpiride and by pertussis toxin, indicating that quinpirole was actingviaa D2 receptor-Gi/o coupled mechanism. The suppressive action of 50 μM quinpirole (∼20%) was not additive with the suppressive effect of 3 μM WIN (∼40%). D2 agonistsviaGi/o oppose the action of low concentrations of CB1 agonists actingviaGs to modulate cone membrane currents, suggesting a role in shaping the cone light response and/or sensitivity to changes in ambient light conditions. The nonadditive effect of high concentrations of WIN and quinpirole suggests that both decrease membrane currentsviathe same transduction pathway, Gi/Go protein kinase A (PKA).
New literacies in language learning and teaching: Selected papers from EUROCALL 2003
Authors: MURRAY LIAM
Published: July 2004

Contained within this issue is a selection of papers presented at the 2003 annual EUROCALL
Conference, hosted during September in Limerick, Ireland. This was the second time that Ireland had the privilege
of welcoming EUROCALLers, the first being the conference at Dublin City University
in 1997 organised by Françoise Blin. The theme of EUROCALL 2003, “New literacies in language learning
and teaching”, aimed to focus attention on the changing concepts and practices concerning literacy brought
about by technological developments, particularly in relation to language learning and teaching. Sub-themes
focused on the changes in practices involving literacy brought about by the World Wide Web; the need to
re-interpret current teaching paradigms; the relationship between the
more “traditional” language skills and the “new literacies”; interactivity,
learner interaction, and feedback; and spoken and written corpora in language teaching and learning. This last
theme re-introduced to EUROCALL an important research area which had been well represented in the early
days of the association, and has led directly to the creation of a new SIG within the association
in March 2004.
Computer generated feedback on vowel production by learners of English as a second language
Authors: BRETT DAVID
Published: July 2004

The acquisition of new vowel sounds is one of the most challenging tasks for the adult learner of a
second language. It is also an aspect which requires a great deal of time and individual attention. Learners of English are
particularly hampered by the irregular orthographic representation of vowel sounds. This paper reports on research in progress
into the development of an application to provide learners with real time feedback on their vowel production. This process
includes the calculation and plotting of formants on a graph using the PRAAT programme. The patterns which result are highly
reminiscent of the traditional vowel chart, which in turn reflects articulation, i.e. articulatory changes are reflected on the
graph. This application can provide feedback on both pure vowels and diphthongs. Some of the difficulties and obstacles which
as yet prevent it from being a tool which can be used by the learner autonomously will also be outlined and discussed.
Foremost amongst which are: the question of speaker normalisation (how to compensate for the difference in values
between male, female and pre-pubertal speakers) which may be resolved by way of statistical elaboration of the formant data;
and the methods used to isolate the vowel sound from the rest of the signal.
Modeling Image Distortions in 3DAP
Authors: Vurpillot F. , Cerezo A. , Blavette D. , Larson D.J.
Published: July 2004

A numerical model has been developed to simulate images obtained from the three-dimensional atom probe. This model was used to simulate the artefacts commonly observed in two-phase materials. This model takes into account the dynamic evolution of the atomic-scale shape of the specimen during field evaporation. This article reviews the model and its applications to some specific cases. Local magnification effects were studied as a function of the size, the shape, and the orientation of precipitated phases embedded in the matrix. Small precipitates produce large aberrations in good agreement with experiments. The magnification from such precipitates, as measured from the simulation, is only found to match the theoretical value for mesoscopic scale precipitates (size similar to the specimen size). Orientation effects are also observed in excellent agreement with experiments. The measured thickness of a grain-boundary-segregated film in the simulation is found to decrease with the angle between the normal to the grain boundary and the tip axis. Depth scaling artefacts caused by variation in the evaporation field of atoms in multilayer structures were successfully simulated and again showed good agreement with effects observed experimentally.
First Data from a Commercial Local Electrode Atom Probe (LEAP)
Authors: Kelly Thomas F. , Gribb Tye T. , Olson Jesse D. , Martens Richard L. , Shepard Jeffrey D. , Wiener Scott A. , Kunicki Thomas C. , Ulfig Robert M. , Lenz Daniel R. , Strennen Eric M. , Oltman Edward , Bunton Joseph H. , Strait David R.
Published: July 2004

The first dedicated local electrode atom probes (LEAP [a trademark of Imago Scientific Instruments Corporation]) have been built and tested as commercial prototypes. Several key performance parameters have been markedly improved relative to conventional three-dimensional atom probe (3DAP) designs. The Imago LEAP can operate at a sustained data collection rate of 1 million atoms/minute. This is some 600 times faster than the next fastest atom probe and large images can be collected in less than 1 h that otherwise would take many days. The field of view of the Imago LEAP is about 40 times larger than conventional 3DAPs. This makes it possible to analyze regions that are about 100 nm diameter by 100 nm deep containing on the order of 50 to 100 million atoms with this instrument. Several example applications that illustrate the advantages of the LEAP for materials analysis are presented.
The Influence of Tungsten on the Chemical Composition of a Temporally Evolving Nanostructure of a Model Ni-Al-Cr Superalloy
Authors: Sudbrack Chantal K. , Isheim Dieter , Noebe Ronald D. , Jacobson Nathan S. , Seidman David N.
Published: July 2004

The influence of W on the temporal evolution of γ′ precipitation toward equilibrium in a model Ni-Al-Cr alloy is investigated by three-dimensional atom-probe (3DAP) microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We report on the alloys Ni-10 Al-8.5 Cr (at.%) and Ni-10 Al-8.5 Cr-2 W (at.%), which were aged isothermally in the γ + γ′ two-phase field at 1073 K, for times ranging from 0.25 to 264 h. Spheroidal-shaped γ′ precipitates, 5–15 nm diameter, form during quenching from above the solvus temperature in both alloys at a high number density (∼1023m−3). As γ′ precipitates grow with aging at 1073 K, a transition from spheriodal- to cuboidal-shaped precipitates is observed in both alloys. The elemental partitioning and spatially resolved concentration profiles across the γ′ precipitates are obtained as a function of aging time from three-dimensional atom-by-atom reconstructions. Proximity histogram concentration profiles (Hellman et al., 2000) of the quaternary alloy demonstrate that W concentration gradients exist in γ′ precipitates in the as-quenched and 0.25-h aging states, which disappear after 1 h of aging. The diffusion coefficient of W in γ′ is estimated to be 6.2 × 10−20m2s−1at 1073 K. The W addition decreases the coarsening rate constant, and leads to stronger partitioning of Al to γ′ and Cr to γ.
Is the Implicit Association Test Immune to Faking?
Authors: Steffens Melanie C.
Published: July 2004

Abstract. One of the main advantages of measures of automatic cognition is supposed to be that they are less susceptible to faking than explicit tests. It is an empirical question, however, to what degree these measures can be faked, and the response might well differ for different measures. We tested whether the Implicit Association Test (IAT, Greenwald, McGhee, & Schwartz, 1998 ) cannot be faked as easily as explicit measures of the same constructs. We chose the Big-Five dimensions conscientiousness and extraversion as the constructs of interest. The results show, indeed, that the IAT is much less susceptible to faking than questionnaire measures are, even if no selective faking of single dimensions of the questionnaire occurred. However, given limited experience, scores on the IAT, too, are susceptible to faking.
Lost in Thought: Cognitive Load and the Processing of Addressees’ Feedback in Verbal Communication
Authors: Roßnagel Christian Stamov
Published: July 2004

Abstract. Two experiments tested if cognitive load interferes with perspective-taking in verbal communication even if feedback from the addressee is available. Participants gave instructions on the assembly of a machine model. In Experiment 1, cognitive load was demonstrated to be a function of the complexity of assembly steps. In Experiment 2, position of feedback (during simple vs. during complex steps) and type of feedback (question vs. ambiguous interjection) were manipulated. With simple steps, speakers’ responses were a function of feedback type. Speakers responded differently to questions than to interjections. With complex steps, however, responses were a function of cognitive load. Regardless of the type of feedback, most speakers simply repeated their previous utterances.
Seasonal variability of QSCAT‐derived wind stress over the Southern Ocean
Authors: Luis Alvarinho J. , Pandey Prem Chand
Published: July 2004

Seasonal variability of surface wind stress derived from SeaWINDS onboard the NASA's QuikSCAT satellite is mapped over the latitude range 30°–60°S in the Southern Ocean for the period from August 1999 to July 2003. Seasonal variability is pronounced on basin‐wide scale which dominates the Atlantic‐Indian Ocean sector during austral winter. Harmonic analysis reveals that seasonal harmonic captures larger than 60% of the variance on regional scales. The cyclonic wind stress curl induces divergence around Antarctica and facilitates ACC meandering equatorward in the Atlantic‐Indian Ocean sector of the Southern Ocean.
The large earthquake on 29 June 1170 (Syria, Lebanon, and central southern Turkey)
Authors: Guidoboni Emanuela , Bernardini Filippo , Comastri Alberto , Boschi Enzo
Published: July 2004

On 29 June 1170 a large earthquake hit a vast area in the Near Eastern Mediterranean, comprising the present‐day territories of western Syria, central southern Turkey, and Lebanon. Although this was one of the strongest seismic events ever to hit Syria, so far no in‐depth or specific studies have been available. Furthermore, the seismological literature (from 1979 until 2000) only elaborated a partial summary of it, mainly based solely on Arabic sources. The major effects area was very partial, making the derived seismic parameters unreliable. This earthquake is in actual fact one of the most highly documented events of the medieval Mediterranean. This is due to both the particular historical period in which it had occurred (between the second and the third Crusades) and the presence of the Latin states in the territory of Syria. Some 50 historical sources, written in eight different languages, have been analyzed: Latin (major contributions), Arabic, Syriac, Armenian, Greek, Hebrew, Vulgar French, and Italian. A critical analysis of this extraordinary body of historical information has allowed us to obtain data on the effects of the earthquake at 29 locations, 16 of which were unknown in the previous scientific literature. As regards the seismic dynamics, this study has set itself the question of whether there was just one or more than one strong earthquake. In the former case, the parameters (Me7.7 ± 0.22, epicenter, and fault length 126.2 km) were calculated. Some hypotheses are outlined concerning the seismogenic zones involved.
Precipitation removal of ultrafine aerosol particles from the atmospheric boundary layer
Authors: Andronache Constantin
Published: July 2004

Ultrafine particles (UFP) formed in the boundary layer (BL) by nucleation processes need to grow up to a diameter dp ∼ 100 nm to become activated as cloud droplets (CD). The time required to reach dp = 100 nm is about 2–3 days for a typical growth rate of 5 nm h−1. If precipitation occurs, most UFP are too small to become CD, and some particles are removed by scavenging processes. A model to estimate the UFP wet removal from the BL by rainfall and coagulation is presented. The scavenging coefficient that describes the decay of aerosol mass in various size bins is a function of aerosol size (dp), rainfall rate (R), and BL background aerosol. The model is applied to determine the UFP 0.5‐folding time (t05) during rain events and results show that t05 ∼ 1 hour for R ∼ 1 mm h−1 for newly created particles (dp < 10 nm) and t05 ∼ 1 day for larger UFP (dp ∼ 10–100 nm). To infer the likelihood of UFP removal at a given location, the average time interval (Δt) between rain events with rainfall rate R = 1 mm h−1 at stations with different precipitation regimes was determined. Results show that on average, UFP are very effectively removed from the BL by below‐cloud scavenging in tropical regions (Δt ∼ 1 day), removed to a significant extent in eastern U.S. regions (Δt ∼ 3 days), and are less likely to be removed in southwest U.S. regions (Δt ∼ 6–8 days), where the frequency of dry periods is high and UFP have sufficient time to grow.
SO2 depletion in tropospheric volcanic plumes
Authors: McGonigle A. J. S. , Delmelle P. , Oppenheimer C. , Tsanev V. I. , Delfosse T. , Williams‐Jones G. , Horton K. , Mather T. A.
Published: July 2004

Ground based remote sensing techniques are used to measure volcanic SO2 fluxes in efforts to characterise volcanic activity. As these measurements are made several km from source there is the potential for in‐plume chemical transformation of SO2 to sulphate aerosol (conversion rates are dependent on meteorological conditions), complicating interpretation of observed SO2 flux trends. In contrast to anthropogenic plumes, SO2 lifetimes are poorly constrained for tropospheric volcanic plumes, where the few previous loss rate estimates vary widely (from ≪1 to >99% per hour). We report experiments conducted on the boundary layer plume of Masaya volcano, Nicaragua during the dry season. We found that SO2 fluxes showed negligible variation with plume age or diurnal variations in temperature, relative humidity and insolation, providing confirmation that remote SO2 flux measurements (typically of ≈500–2000 s old plumes) are reliable proxies for source emissions for ash free tropospheric plumes not emitted into cloud or fog.
Neuroprotective efficacy and therapeutic time window of peroxynitrite decomposition catalysts in focal cerebral ischemia in rats#
Authors: Thiyagarajan Meenakshisundaram , Kaul Chaman Lal , Sharma Shyam Sundar
Published: July 2004

Free radicals have been implicated in cerebral ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury. Massive production of nitric oxide and superoxide results in continuous formation of peroxynitrite even several hours after IR insult. This can produce DNA strand nicks, hydroxylation and/or nitration of cytosolic components of neuron, leading to neuronal death. Peroxynitrite decomposition catalysts 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(N‐methyl‐4′‐pyridyl)porphyrinato iron (III) (FeTMPyP) and 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(4‐sulfonatophenyl)porphyrinato iron (III) (FeTPPS) have been demonstrated to protect neurons in in vitro cultures; however, their neuroprotective efficacy in cerebral IR injury has not been explored.

In the present study, we investigated the efficacy and the therapeutic time window of FeTMPyP and FeTPPS in focal cerebral ischemia (FCI).

FCI was induced according to the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) method. After 2 h of MCAO and 70 h of reperfusion, the extent of neurological deficits, infarct and edema volume were measured in Sprague–Dawley rats.

FeTMPyP and FeTPPS were administered at different time points 2, 6, 9 and 12 h post MCAO. FeTMPyP and FeTPPS (3 mg kg−1, i.v.) treatment at 2 and 6 h post MCAO produced significant reduction in infarct volume, edema volume and neurological deficits. However, treatment at latter time points did not produce significant neuroprotection.

Significant reduction of peroxynitrite in blood and nitrotyrosine in brain sections was observed on FeTMPyP and FeTPPS treatment.

As delayed treatment of FeTMPyP and FeTPPS produced neuroprotection, we tested whether treatment had any influence over the apoptotic neuronal death. DNA fragmentation and in situ nick end‐labeling assays showed that FeTMPyP and FeTPPS treatment reduced IR injury‐induced DNA fragmentation.

In conclusion, peroxynitrite decomposition catalysts (FeTMPyP and FeTPPS) produced prominent neuroprotection even if administered 6 h post MCAO and the neuroprotective effect is at least in part due to the reduction of peroxynitrite and apoptosis.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 142, 899–911. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705811
Synergistic interaction between enalapril, L‐arginine and tetrahydrobiopterin in smooth muscle cell apoptosis and aortic remodeling induction in SHR
Authors: Sarkissian Shant Der , Marchand Eve‐Lyne , Duguay David , DeBlois Denis
Published: July 2004

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) apoptosis occurs at the onset of enalapril‐induced regression of aortic hypertrophy in SHR. A potential mechanism is the correction of endothelial dysfunction (ED) leading to reduced production of reactive oxygen species and enhanced bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), a potent apoptosis inducer. Stimulants of NO include the precursor L‐arginine and the NO synthase cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4), which correct ED in several models.

The objective was to examine the relationships between ED and the cell growth/death balance during vascular remodeling induced by enalapril in SHR.

SHR, 10‐week‐old, received enalapril (ENA: 30 mg.kg−1.day−1 p.o.) for 1 or 2 weeks, or a co‐treatment of L‐arginine (2.0 g.kg−1.day−1 p.o.) and BH4 (5.4 mg.kg−1.day−1 i.p. twice daily) administered alone (group: LB) or in combination with enalapril (ENA+LB) for 1 week. Controls received vehicle.

After 1 week, ED was completely corrected with LB but not affected significantly by ENA, whereas both treatments failed to induce SMC apoptosis or aortic remodeling. The correction of ED and the induction of SMC apoptosis (3.3‐fold increase in TUNEL labeling) required 2 weeks of ENA treatment. The combination of LB with ENA for 1 week, however, was additive for the reduction of SMC proliferation, and synergistic for the induction of apoptosis and regression of vascular hypertrophy. These interactions were independent of blood pressure regulation.

Our results suggest that the correction of ED is not sufficient to induce SMC apoptosis and vascular remodeling, although it facilitates these responses during enalapril treatment.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 142, 912–918. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705830
AT2 receptor‐mediated vasodilatation is unmasked by AT1 receptor blockade in conscious SHR
Authors: Li Xiao C , Widdop Robert E
Published: July 2004

In the present study, we investigated the role of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2) receptor in the regulation of regional haemodynamics in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). We tested the hypothesis that AT2 receptor activation directly causes vasodilatation.

Mean arterial pressure (MAP), renal, mesenteric and hindquarters flows and conductances were measured in various groups of conscious rats that received the following drug combinations on separate days: the AT1 receptor antagonist, candesartan (5 or 10 μg kg−1 i.v.) alone, the AT2 receptor agonist, CGP42112 (1 μg kg−1 min−1) alone and candesartan plus CGP42112.

Low‐dose candesartan (5 μg kg−1) caused renal vasodilatation, while CGP 42112 alone caused minimal haemodynamic effects. In the presence of candesartan, CGP42112 caused a marked depressor effect together with generalised vasodilatation that was abolished by the coinfusion of the AT2 receptor antagonist, PD123319 (50 μg kg−1 min−1), with the candesartan and CGP42112 combination. PD123319, given alone, increased MAP and reduced renal and mesenteric conductances.

We also confirmed that the enhanced vasodilatation evoked by candesartan plus CGP42112 was not due to additional AT1 receptor blockade, since angiotensin II‐mediated vasoconstriction was inhibited by a similar magnitude in the combination treatment compared with candesartan alone. Analogous experiments in Wistar–Kyoto rats did not demonstrate significantly enhanced effects due to candesartan plus CGP42112.

Collectively, these data suggest that, in SHR, AT2 receptors tonically modulate vascular tone and that direct AT2 receptor‐mediated vasodilatation was unmasked by AT1 receptor blockade.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 142, 821–830. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705838
Subtype specific internalization of P2Y1 and P2Y2 receptors induced by novel adenosine 5′‐O‐(1‐boranotriphosphate) derivatives
Authors: Tulapurkar M E , Laubinger W , Nahum V , Fischer B , Reiser G
Published: July 2004

P2Y‐nucleotide receptors represent important targets for drug development. The lack of stable and receptor specific agonists, however, has prevented successful therapeutic applications. A novel series of P‐boronated ATP derivatives (ATP‐α‐B) were synthesized by substitution of a nonbridging O at P with a BH3 group. This introduces a chiral center, thus resulting in diastereoisomers. In addition, at C2 of the adenine ring a further substitution was made (Cl‐ or methylthio‐). The pairs of diastereoisomers were denoted here as A and B isomers.

Here, we tested the receptor subtype specificity of these analogs on HEK 293 cells stably expressing rat P2Y1 and rat P2Y2 receptors, respectively, both attached to the fluorescent marker protein GFP (rP2Y1‐GFP, rP2Y2‐GFP). We investigated agonist‐induced receptor endocytosis, [Ca2+]i rise and arachidonic acid (AA) release.

Agonist‐induced endocytosis of rP2Y1‐GFP was more pronounced for the A isomers than the corresponding B counterparts for all ATP‐α‐B analogs. Both 2‐MeS‐substituted diastereoisomers induced a greater degree of agonist‐induced receptor endocytosis as compared to the 2‐Cl‐substituted derivatives. Endocytosis results are in accordance with the potency to induce Ca2+ release by these compounds in HEK 293 cells stably transfected with rP2Y1.

In case of rP2Y2‐GFP, the borano‐nucleotides were very weak agonists in comparison to UTP and ATP in terms of Ca2+ release, AA release and in inducing receptor endocytosis. The different ATP‐α‐B derivatives and also the diastereoisomers were equally ineffective.

Thus, the new agonists may be considered as potent and highly specific agonist drug candidates for P2Y1 receptors. The difference in activity of the ATP analogs at P2Y receptors could be used as a tool to investigate structural differences between P2Y receptor subtypes.

British Journal of Pharmacology (2004) 142, 869–878. doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0705859
The replicon revisited: an old model learns new tricks in metazoan chromosomes
Authors: Aladjem Mirit I , Fanning Ellen
Published: July 2004

The origins of DNA replication were proposed in the replicon model to be specified genetically by replicator elements that coordinate the initiation of DNA synthesis with gene expression and cell growth. Recent studies have identified DNA sequences in mammalian cells that fulfil the genetic criteria for replicators and are beginning to uncover the sequence requirements for the initiation of DNA replication. Mammalian replicators are composed of non‐redundant modules that cooperate to direct initiation to specific chromosomal sites. Conversely, replicators do not show strong sequence similarity, and their ability to initiate replication depends on the chromosomal context and epigenetic factors, as well as their primary sequence. Here, we review the properties of metazoan replicators, and discuss the genetic and epigenetic factors that determine where and when DNA replication is initiated.
Polymorphisms in TDG and MGMT Genes – Epidemiological and Functional Study in Lung Cancer Patients from Poland
Authors: Krześniak M. , Butkiewicz D. , Samojedny A. , Chorży M. , Rusin M.
Published: July 2004

Functional genetic polymorphisms of DNA repair genes are good candidates for cancer susceptibility markers. We studied two genes coding for proteins removing small DNA adducts by direct repair (MGMT), or mispaired DNA bases by base excision repair (TDG). The non‐silent polymorphisms of MGMT (84:Phe, 143:Val, 178:Arg) and TDG (199:Ser, 367:Met), and the functional MGMT enhancer polymorphism, did not show any statistically significant association with lung cancer risk in our case‐control analysis, but due to the relatively small number of individuals, strong conclusions on cancer risk association or lack thereof cannot be made. Sequencing of the TDG cDNA has not revealed any novel polymorphism, but did find an alternatively spliced mRNA missing exon 2. Our search for polymorphisms within the promoter‐enhancer region of MGMT revealed three novel sequence variants. The functional significance of the previously published MGMT enhancer polymorphism (1099C‐>T) was assessed. The less frequent sequence variant of the enhancer was associated with a modest (16–64%), but statistically significant, increase of MGMT promoter‐enhancer activity in the studied cell lines. This work points to the importance of studying the expression‐regulating elements of genes, as they may contain functional polymorphisms with the potential for modulating risk of various diseases, including cancer.