bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the 24-item Dysfunctional Attitude Scale
Authors: Tajima Miyuki , Akiyama Tsuyoshi , Numa Hatsue , Kawamura Yoshiya , Okada Yoshie , Sakai Yoshie , Miyake Yuko , Ono Yutaka , Power M. J.
Published: September 2007

Background:

The 24-item Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS-24) is a short version of the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale, which is a self-report inventory for depressogenic schemata.

Objective:

The object of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the DAS-24 (DAS-24-J).

Methods:

Subjects consisted of non-clinical sample 1 (248 university students), non-clinical sample 2 (872 Japanese company employees) and a clinical sample (59 depressed out-patients).

Results:

Internal consistency was satisfactory in all three samples, Cronbach’s α coefficient being higher than 0.85. Test–retest reliability was satisfactory in non-clinical sample 1. The interclass correlation coefficient was 0.79 and there was no significant difference in the average score of DAS-24-J between the two points. The DAS-24-J showed satisfactory concurrent validity with the Japanese Irrational Belief Test-20 (r= 0.76); Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire – Revised total (r= 0.46), negative (r= 0.53) and positive (r=−0.41); and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (r= 0.44 for non-clinical sample, r= 0.63 for clinical sample). The clinical sample showed a significantly higher DAS-24-J score than non-clinical sample 2. According to a factor analysis combining all three samples, three factors were extracted: factor 1 (11 items) corresponded with ‘achievement’ in the original version, factor 2 (6 items) with ‘self-control’ and factor 3 (5 items) with ‘dependency’.

Conclusion:

The DAS-24-J is a reliable and valid instrument to measure depressogenic schemata in Japanese.
Relationship of prepartum plasma concentrations of estrone sulfate and estradiol‐17β with the weight of the calf and placental parameters in Holstein–Friesian cows
Authors: SHAH Kapil D. , NAKAO Toshihiko , KUBOTA Hirokazu , MAEDA Teruo
Published: September 2007

The aim was to evaluate the relationship of prepartum plasma estrone sulfate (E1S) and estradiol‐17β (E2β) concentrations with the weight of the calf and the placental parameters. Holstein–Friesian cows (n = 33) inseminated artificially with Japanese Black beef bull semen at Hiroshima University Farm in Japan were used for the experiment. Blood samples were taken every day from day 270 of gestation until the day after calving. The plasma samples were analyzed for E1S and E2β by enzyme immunoassay. The calf birth weight was taken immediately after calving. Complete fetal membranes were collected from 19 cattle and the weights of the placental components and the number of cotyledons were recorded. All 33 cattle delivered singleton normal calves. The prepartum plasma E1S concentration was found to correlate significantly (P < 0.01) with the calf birth weight (r = 0.83), total fetal membrane weight (r = 0.81), cotyledonary weight (r = 0.79) and inter‐cotyledonary membrane weight (r = 0.64), but it did not correlate significantly with the number of cotyledons, whereas prepartum plasma E2β was not found to correlate significantly with the weight of either the calf or any of the placental components except the number of cotyledons. In conclusion, prepartum plasma E1S, not plasma E2β, was found to correlate significantly with the weight of the calf and the placental components.
Stress responses in neonatal meat and layer Nagoya chicks
Authors: TOMONAGA Shozo , NODA Kenji , SUENAGA Rie , ASECHI Mari , ADACHI Nami , KINO Katsutoshi , NAKAMURA Akihiro , DENBOW D. Michael , FURUSE Mitsuhiro
Published: September 2007

We reported that meat chicks have either a greater capability to acclimatize to novel environments, or a blunted hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal response to novel environments compared with layer chicks in a commercial base. The present study compared the differences in behavior and plasma corticosterone concentrations under isolation‐induced stress between neonatal meat and layer Nagoya chicks which had been separated from the same population. Both types of neonatal chicks reared in groups were individually separated and their spontaneous activity and distress‐induced vocalizations were monitored for 10 min. The responses of the two types were remarkably different, with the meat chicks being less active than the layer chicks. Distress‐induced vocalizations were fewer in the meat than in the layer chicks. The meat chicks spent more time in a sleeping posture during isolation‐induced stress. Plasma corticosterone concentrations measured at the end of the test tended to be higher in the layer chicks than in meat ones, but not significantly. In conclusion, the selection of Nagoya chickens for meat and layer may have trends similar to those observed in commercial chickens in relation to stress susceptibility.
South African paediatric food‐based dietary guidelines
Authors: Bourne Lesley T.
Published: September 2007

South African efforts to address both under‐ and overnutrition , and other nutrition‐related public health issues, utilizing food‐based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) as an educational tool, are introduced. However, the focus is placed on the development of paediatric FBDGs for infants and young children, from birth up to the age of 7 years, and how these were made compatible with scientific and local public health evidence on the one hand, and existing South African FBDGs for children over the age of 7 years, adolescents and adults, on the other. Members of the Working Group and other stakeholders are gratefully acknowledged.
Addressing malnutrition in young children in South Africa. Setting the national context for paediatric food‐based dietary guidelines
Authors: Bourne Lesley T. , Hendricks Michael K. , Marais Debbie , Eley Brian
Published: September 2007

Despite various national nutrition and primary healthcare programmes being initiated in South Africa over the last decade, child health has deteriorated. This is seen by the rise in infant and child mortality rates, the high prevalence of preventable childhood diseases, e.g. diarrhoea and lower respiratory tract infections, and the coexistence of under‐nutrition along with HIV/AIDS. Poor dietary intake, food insecurity and poor quality of basic services prevail within this precarious causal web. The national Integrated Nutrition Programme is a comprehensive nutrition strategy that focuses on children below 6 years old, at‐risk pregnant and lactating women, and those affected by communicable and non‐communicable diseases. Focus areas relevant to pre‐school children include disease‐specific nutrition treatment, support and counselling; growth monitoring and promotion (GMP); micronutrient malnutrition control; breastfeeding promotion, protection and support; contributions to household food security; nutrition interventions among HIV‐infected children; and nutrition promotion, education and advocacy. Progress towards this includes the Baby‐Friendly Hospital Initiative; mandatory fortification of maize meal and wheat flour with multiple micronutrients; vitamin A supplementation coverage and mandatory iodization of salt by legislation; the provision of free road‐to‐health charts for GMP; and the National School Nutrition Programme. Since 2003, the basis of the nutrition education strategy has been the locally developed food‐based dietary guidelines (FBDGs), directed at adults and school‐going children. This review sketches the backdrop to and motivation for the introduction of specifically targeted paediatric FBDGs, for mothers and caregivers of children from birth to age 7 years, as a national initiative.
Optimizing the introduction of complementary foods in the infant's diet: a unique challenge in developing countries
Authors: Van Der Merwe Julanda , Kluyts Megan , Bowley Nadia , Marais Debbie
Published: September 2007

Being one of a series of technical support papers pertaining to the South African paediatric food‐based dietary guidelines, this paper specifically deals with two of the guidelines proposed for the age group 6–12 months regarding the introduction of complementary foods in the infant's diet. Studies have shown that most of South African infants receive solid foods at the age of 4 months or earlier while only a small percentage are breastfed exclusively until 6 months. The untimely and inappropriate introduction of complementary foods have been shown to be risk factors for both under‐ and over‐nutrition with resultant under‐ or overweight, stunting and micronutrient deficiencies. Optimal timing for the introduction of complementary foods will depend on the infant's physiological and developmental status. Small, frequent meals of easily digestable, smooth, semisolid nutrient‐ and energy‐dense complementary foods should initially be offered while gradually increasing variety in both the type and texture of food. Protein and carbohydrate intake should increase with the infant's age while preference should be given to foods rich in micronutrients. It should be observed that certain foods, such as fresh cow's milk and egg white, because of their allergenic properties, as well as fat‐free and high‐fibre foods, excessive fruit juice and low nutrient value drinks such as tea are not recommended. Timely introduction of appropriate complementary foods is vital for the immediate and long‐term health of the infant and caregivers should be accordingly advised on feeding at this age.
Water: a neglected nutrient in the young child? A South African perspective
Authors: Bourne Lesley T. , Harmse Berna , Temple Norman
Published: September 2007

Water is considered an essential nutrient because the body cannot produce enough water itself, by metabolism of food, to fulfil its need. When the quantity or quality of water is inadequate, health problems result, most notably dehydration and diarrhoea. As a result of contaminated water and poor hygiene, related infections are still a serious problem. Indeed, in the South African setting water availability and sanitation are critical issues because of the prevalence of childhood diarrhoea and also the HIV/AIDS crisis. Though considerable efforts have been made to improve the water and sanitation problems in South Africa – especially with regard to water supply infrastructure – there is still room for much improvement. Water is a healthy alternative to calorie‐dense, non‐nutritive beverages, such as artificial fruit drinks and soda. The latter should be avoided as they contribute little other than energy and may contribute to overweight and obesity. Also, they displace more nutritious foods from the child's diet. Consumption of fruit juice should also be limited. These issues highlight the need for a specific guideline relating to water intake in the paediatric food‐based dietary guidelines.
Nutrition and HIV/AIDS in infants and children in South Africa: implications for food‐based dietary guidelines
Authors: Hendricks Michael K. , Eley Brian , Bourne Lesley T.
Published: September 2007

The implications for food‐based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) that are being developed in South Africa are reviewed in relation to HIV‐exposed and ‐infected children. The nutritional consequences of HIV infection and nutritional requirements along with programmes and guidelines to address undernutrition and micronutrient deficiency in these children are also investigated. Based on studies for HIV‐infected children in South Africa, more than 50% are underweight and stunted, while more than 60% have multiple micronutrient deficiencies. Nutritional problems in these children are currently addressed through the Prevention‐of‐Mother‐to‐Child Transmission Programme (PMTCT), the Integrated Nutrition Programme and Guidelines for the Management of HIV‐infected Children which include antiretroviral (ARV) therapy in South Africa. Evaluations relating to the implementation of these programmes and guidelines have not been conducted nationally, although certain studies show that coverage of the PMTCT and the ARV therapy programmes was low. FBDGs for infants and young children could complement and strengthen the implementation of these programmes and guidelines. However, FBDGs must be in line with national and international guidelines and address key nutritional issues in these infants and young children. These issues and various recommendations are discussed in detail in this review.
Probing the active site of Corynebacterium callunae starch phosphorylase through the characterization of wild‐type and His334→Gly mutant enzymes
Authors: Schwarz Alexandra , Brecker Lothar , Nidetzky Bernd
Published: September 2007

His334 facilitates catalysis by Corynebacterium callunae starch phosphorylase through selective stabilization of the transition state of the reaction, partly derived from a hydrogen bond between its side chain and the C‐6 hydroxy group of the glucosyl residue undergoing transfer to and from phosphate. We have substituted His334 by a Gly and measured the disruptive effects of the site‐directed replacement on active site function using steady‐state kinetics and NMR spectroscopic characterization of the cofactor pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate and binding of carbohydrate ligands. Purified H334G showed 0.05% and 1.3% of wild‐type catalytic center activity for phosphorolysis of maltopentaose (kcatP = 0.033 s−1) and substrate binding affinity in the ternary complex with enzyme bound to phosphate (Km = 280 mm), respectively. The 31P chemical shift of pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate in the wild‐type was pH‐dependent and not perturbed by binding of arsenate. At pH 7.25, it was not sensitive to the replacement His334→Gly. Analysis of interactions of α‐d‐glucose 1‐phosphate and α‐d‐xylose 1‐phosphate upon binding to wild‐type and H334G phosphorylase, derived from saturation transfer difference NMR experiments, suggested that disruption of enzyme–substrate interactions in H334G was strictly local, affecting the protein environment of sugar carbon 6. pH profiles of the phosphorolysis rate for wild‐type and H334G were both bell‐shaped, with the broad pH range of optimum activity in the wild‐type (pH 6.5–7.5) being narrowed and markedly shifted to lower pH values in the mutant (pH 6.5–7.0). External imidazole partly restored the activity lost in the mutant, without, however, participating as an alternative nucleophile in the reaction. It caused displacement of the entire pH profile of H334G by + 0.5 pH units. A possible role for His334 in the formation of the oxocarbenium ion‐like transition state is suggested, where the hydrogen bond between its side chain and the 6‐hydroxyl polarizes and positions O‐6 such that electron density in the reactive center is enhanced.
CARELESSNESS AND DISCRIMINABILITY IN WORK ROLE REQUIREMENT JUDGMENTS: INFLUENCES OF ROLE AMBIGUITY AND COGNITIVE COMPLEXITY
Authors: DIERDORFF ERICH C. , RUBIN ROBERT S.
Published: September 2007

Fundamental to effective human resource systems is the capture of data regarding work role requirements. However, previous research on factors that influence work role requirement judgments has been largely equivocal. From a sample of 203 incumbents, representing 73 unique occupations, we investigated 2 cognitive sources of influence on carelessness and discriminability in work role requirement judgments. We hypothesized that incumbents perceiving high role ambiguity would provide ratings that were more careless and showed less discriminability, and cognitively complex individuals would provide more careful and discriminating ratings. These influences were hypothesized to vary across different work descriptors and rating scales. Results were supportive, showing effects for cognitive complexity and role ambiguity on ratings, and differential effects depending on the focal descriptor and scale.
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF THE FIVE‐FACTOR MODEL QUESTIONNAIRE (FFMQ): AN ADJECTIVAL‐BASED PERSONALITY INVENTORY FOR USE IN OCCUPATIONAL SETTINGS1
Authors: GILL COLIN M. , HODGKINSON GERARD P.
Published: September 2007

Despite a proliferation in the number of instruments for assessing the Big 5 traits, extant measures are beset with limitations that render their use problematic in the workplace; that is, they contain generic as opposed to occupationally relevant items, couched in idiosyncratic, culturally specific language, demanding high reading ability levels, and are overly cumbersome. The 5 Factor Model Questionnaire (FFMQ) was devised to address these concerns. Five studies, spanning multiple samples and organizational contexts, demonstrate that the FFMQ is suitable for use with individuals drawn from the widest possible range of ability levels and cultural and socioeconomic groupings. The findings of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses are in line with the hypothesized factor structure, and the resulting new scales exhibit acceptable reliability (internal consistency and temporal stability) and convergent and discriminant validity in respect of Costa and McCrae's (1992) NEO‐PI‐R scales. Furthermore, the new FFMQ scales are differentially correlated with independent ratings of overall job proficiency across three occupationally distinct samples.
The effects of wounding type, preculture, infection method and cocultivation temperature on the Agrobacterium‐mediated gene transfer in tomatoes
Authors: Ahsan N. , Lee S.‐H. , Lee D.‐G. , Anisuzzaman M. , Alam M. F. , Yoon H.‐S. , Choi M. S. , Yang J.‐K. , Lee B.‐H.
Published: September 2007

To reduce the complexity of Agrobacterium‐mediated gene transfer in tomatoes, effects of various parameters, such as shoot regeneration medium (SRM), wounding type, infection method, preculture and cocultivation temperature, have been evaluated. Transformation frequency was analysed by the Agrobacterium strain LBA4404, harbouring a recombinant binary expression vector pIG121Hm‐GS, which contained the glutathione synthetase gene under the control of the CaMV 35S promoter. The transformation frequency was highly dependent on the wound type of the explants, the infection method and the cocultivation temperature. On the other hand, a commonly used, preincubation method of the explants, on the preculture medium, did not show any significant improvement regarding transformation frequency. Optimal transformation frequency was observed when fresh perforated cotyledonary explants were directly infected with a bacterial solution A, followed by cocultivation at 24°C in a coculture medium for 2 days and subsequent shoot regeneration on a selective SRM1. The presence of transgene, in putative transgenic plants, was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Southern blot analyses. By using the most effective treatment from each category, an average of 20.7% kanamycin‐resistant and PCR‐positive shoots were recovered from the three tomato cultivars examined. The optimisation of these parameters may offer a simple, consistent, efficient and much less laborious protocol for tomato transformation.
Antioxidation of Anthocyanins in Photosynthesis Under High Temperature Stress
Authors: Shao Ling , Shu Zhan , Sun Shu‐Lan , Peng Chang‐Lian , Wang Xiao‐Jing , Lin Zhi‐Fang
Published: September 2007

Chlorophyll fluorescence and antioxidative capability in detached leaves of the wild type Arabidopsis thaliana L. ecotype Landsberg erecta (Ler) and three mutants deficient in anthocyanins biosynthesis (tt3, tt4, and tt3tt4) were investigated during treatment with temperatures ranging 25–45 °C. In comparison with the wild type, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters Fv/Fm, ΦPSII, electron transport rate (ETR), Fv/Fo and qP in three anthocyanin‐deficient mutants showed a more rapidly decreasing rate when the temperature was over 35 °C. Non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) in these mutants was almost completely lost at 44 °C, whereas the content of heat stable protein dropped and the rate of the membrane leakage increased. Fo‐temperature curves were obtained by monitoring Fo levels with gradually elevated temperatures from 22 °C to 72 °C at 0.5 °C/min. The inflexion temperatures of Fo were 45.8 °C in Ler, 45.1 °C in tt3, 44.1 °C in tt4 and 42.3 °C in tt3tt4, respectively. The temperatures of maximal Fo in three mutants were 1.9–3.8 °C lower than the wild type plants. Meanwhile, three mutants had lower activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and an inferior scavenging capability to DPPH (1.1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhy.drazyl) radical under heat stress, and in particular tt3tt4 had the lowest antioxidative potential. The results of the diaminobenzidine‐H2O2 histochemical staining showed that H2O2 was accumulated in the leaf vein and mesophyll cells of mutants under treatment at 40 °C, and it was significantly presented in leaf cells of tt3tt4. The sensitivity of Arabidopsis anthocyanins‐deficient mutants to high temperatures has revealed that anthocyanins in normal plants might provide protection from high temperature injury, by enhancing its antioxidative capability under high temperature stress.
Community Dynamics of Seed Rain in Mixed Evergreen Broad‐leaved and Deciduous Forests in a Subtropical Mountain of Central China
Authors: Shen Ze‐Hao , Tang Yuan‐Yuan , Lü Nan , Zhao Jun , Li Dao‐Xing , Wang Gong‐Fang
Published: September 2007

Seed dispersal is a key process within community dynamics. The spatial and temporal variations of seed dispersal and the interspecific differences are crucial for understanding species coexistence and community dynamics. This might also hold for the mixed evergreen broadleaved and deciduous forests in the mountains of subtropical China, but until now little existing knowledge is available for this question. In 2001, we chose to monitor the seed rain process of our mixed evergreen broad‐leaved and deciduous forest communities in Mount Dalaoling National Forest Park, Yichang, Hubei Province, China. The preliminary analyses show obvious variations in seed rain density, species compositions and timing of seed rain among four communities. The average seed rain densities of the four communities are 2.43 ± 5.15, 54.13 ± 182.75, 10.05 ± 19.30 and 24.91 ± 58.86 inds./m2
, respectively; about one tenth the values in other studies in subtropical forests of China. In each community, the seed production is dominated by a limited number of species, and the contributions from the others are generally minor. Fecundity of evergreen broadleaved tree species is weaker than deciduous species. The seed rain of four communities begins earlier than September, and stops before December, peaking from early September to late October. The beginning date, ending date and peak times of seed rain are extensively varied among the species, indicating different types of dispersal strategies. According to the existing data, the timing of seed rain is not determined by the climate conditions in the same period, while the density of seed rain may be affected by the disturbances of weather variations at a finer temporal resolution.
Effects of Cytapheresis on Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor and on Expression of CD63 in Myeloperoxidase–Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Autoantibody‐associated Vasculitis
Authors: Hasegawa Midori , Nishii Chikako , Kabutan Nao , Kato Masao , Ohashi Atsushi , Nakai Shigeru , Murakami Kazutaka , Tomita Makoto , Nabeshima Kunihiro , Hiki Yoshiyuki , Oshima Hisaji , Sugiyama Satoshi
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  To evaluate the therapeutic potential of cytapheresis in myeloperoxidase–antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (MPO–ANCA)‐associated vasculitis, plasma levels of soluble tumor necrosis factor receptors (sTNFR1, sTNFR2) and the expression of TNFR1, TNFR2, and CD63 on granulocytes were measured. The levels of sTNFR1 and sTNFR2, and the expression of TNFR1 and TNFR2 were significantly higher in MPO–ANCA‐associated vasculitis patients than in normal controls. The levels of sTNFR1 and sTNFR2 increased significantly after cytapheresis (P < 0.001). The expression of TNFR1 showed a tendency to decrease after cytapheresis (P = 0.0535). The expression of CD63 decreased significantly after cytapheresis (P < 0.05). Because sTNFR1 and sTNFR2 act as TNF‐antagonists, the increases of sTNFR1 and sTNFR2 after cytapheresis might contribute to inhibit the action of TNF‐α. The decreased expression of TNFR1, which mediates the signal for polymorphonuclear cell respiratory burst, might also contribute to the reduction of inflammation. From these results, the inhibition of TNF action and removal of degranulated granulocytes appear to be related to the mechanism whereby cytapheresis can exert a beneficial and therapeutic function in the treatment of MPO–ANCA‐associated vasculitis.
A Case Report of Hepatorenal Syndrome Treated With Plasma Diafiltration (Selective Plasma Filtration with Dialysis)
Authors: Nakae Hajime , Igarashi Toshiko , Tajimi Kimitaka , Kusano Tomoyuki , Shibata Satoshi , Kume Makoto , Sato Tsutomu , Yamamoto Yuzo
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Plasma diafiltration (PDF) (selective plasma filtration with dialysis) is blood purification therapy in which simple plasma exchange is performed using a membrane plasma separator (Evacure EC‐2A) while dialysate flows outside of the hollow‐fibers. A 74‐year old man with hepatorenal syndrome underwent four sessions of PDF and three sessions of HDF. Finally he recovered from hepatorenal syndrome. In this therapy, the levels of total bilirubin, interleukin‐18, creatinine, and cystatin C were significantly reduced. On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the total protein and albumin levels before and after PDF. PDF may be one of the most useful blood purification therapies for hepatorenal syndrome in terms of medical economics.
Management of Anti‐allogeneic Antibody Elimination by Apheresis in Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Kawagishi Naoki , Takeda Ikuo , Miyagi Shigehito , Satoh Kazushige , Akamatsu Yorihiro , Sekiguchi Satoshi , Fujimori Keisei , Sato Toshinobu , Satomi Susumu
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  In this study, we report on the indications and efficacy of the elimination of antiallogeneic antibodies in living donor liver transplant recipients. Seven patients incompatible with the ABO‐blood type were subjected to apheresis before transplantation. The procedure resulted in titers being decreased to less than a score of 8. After transplantation, apheresis was also performed in 6 cases and continuous hemodiafiltration in 1 case. In addition, three out of 11 ABO‐blood type incompatible recipients were administered anti‐CD20 antibody (rituximab). Two crossmatch positive patients were subjected to apheresis before transplantation, and in these cases the titers were reduced to less than a score of 2. Moreover, these two patients had no acute rejections after transplantation. We concluded that apheresis is effective for preventing acute rejection induced by pre‐existing anti‐A and/or anti‐B antibodies, as well as antidonor specific antibodies, but is not effective in some patients who had accelerated humoral rejection.
Apheresis Technologies and Clinical Applications: The 2005 International Apheresis Registry
Authors: Malchesky Paul S , Koo Anna P , Roberson Gerald A , Hadsell Angela T , Rybicki Lisa A
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The developments in apheresis technologies and techniques and their clinical applications worldwide are technologically, sociologically, and economically motivated. In past apheresis surveys the statistics have highlighted both the differences by geographic region in clinical practice and in the types of technologies utilized. While a national view of apheresis is very important, an international view may be more representative overall of this therapeutic modality than national results that are highly dependent on the local economics and the available technologies. These regional differences have provided a basis for scientific and clinical assessment of these apheresis technologies and their clinical outcomes, and have impacted the marketing and business developments of new technologies worldwide. The results of the International Apheresis Registry for 2005 reporting from 22 centers on 5 continents are presented. The survey collected data exclusively via a secure internet website on 1133 patients for a total of 6501 treatments. Unlike our prior registries, information on stem cell infusions was gathered. Information gathered included patient demographics, medical history, treatment diagnoses, treatment specifics (type, methodology, access type, anticoagulants, drugs, and equipment usage), side‐effects, clinical response, and payment provider. As in the prior International Apheresis Registries for 1983, 2000, and 2002 the survey results highlight the regional differences in apheresis usage and treatment methodologies, indicating that an international overview of apheresis may be more representative of the impact of this therapeutic modality.
Hyperoxia reduces basal release of nitric oxide and contracts porcine coronary arteries
Authors: Pasgaard T. , Stankevicius E. , Jørgensen M. M. , Østergaard L. , Simonsen U. , Frøbert O.
Published: September 2007

Aim:  The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether changes in nitric oxide (NO) concentration is involved in hyperoxia‐induced vasoconstriction in porcine conduit coronary arteries.

Methods:  The effect of hyperoxia on NO release and vasoconstriction was evaluated by tension recording, microsensor measurements, and immunoblotting in porcine conduit coronary arteries contracted with U46619 or 5‐hydroxytryptamine.

Results:  In endothelium‐intact segments exchanging 20% O2, 5% CO2, 75% N2 (normoxia) for 95% O2, 5% CO2 (hyperoxia) increased contraction. In segments without endothelium hyperoxia‐evoked contraction was abolished, but restored by an encircling donor segment with endothelium. An inhibitor of NOS, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA, 300 μm), reduced hyperoxic contraction and basal NO concentration by, respectively, 38 ± 12% and 46 ± 3% (P < 0.05, n = 9). A NO donor, S‐nitroso‐N‐acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), increased NO concentration and evoked relaxation to the same levels in normoxic and hyperoxic conditions. β‐actin and endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) protein expression was similar in normoxic and hyperoxic arterial segments. Phosphorylation of eNOS was unaltered in normoxia vs. hyperoxia, but phosphorylation of eNOS‐Ser1177 was increased and phosphorylation of eNOS‐Thr495 decreased by U46619. Blockers of ATP‐sensitive, voltage‐dependent and calcium‐activated K+ channels did not change hyperoxic contraction. However, high extracellular K+ concentration or a second and third exposure to hyperoxia decreased contraction.

Conclusion:  The present study provides direct evidence that hyperoxia reduces basal release of NO leading to depletable endothelium‐dependent vasoconstriction in porcine coronary arteries independent of changes in eNOS phosphorylation.
Church–State Relations in Europe
Authors: Sandberg Russell , Doe Norman
Published: September 2007

Academic lawyers frequently distinguish between three models of church–state relations in Europe: state–church systems, separation systems and hybrid systems. However, the sociologist of religion Grace Davie has suggested that by using sociological, historical and legal evidence to understand religion in Europe, we can reveal a basic common ‘European’ approach to religion, which also acknowledges the differences between the northern Protestant state–church systems and the southern Catholic separation systems. This article seeks to elucidate the legal model and to assess whether Davie's analysis is preferable in light of the legal evidence. This will enable a tentative conclusion to be made as to the religious identity of the continent: Is Europe Christian or secular?
Hip‐Hop Language in Sociolinguistics and Beyond
Authors: Cutler Cecelia
Published: September 2007

Hip‐hop language (HHL) is a hot topic in academia. Sociolinguists have been interested in its relationship to African American English as well as innovations in terms of its grammar and vocabulary. A couple of questions connect research from a number of related fields on HHL and culture: What does it mean to be authentic in hip‐hop culture in terms of language and other aspects of identity such as one's race, class, and connection to young urban Black Americans? How do participants perform their hip‐hop identity in terms of language? And how do local hip‐hop scenes use language to express local identities? This article explores research on these topics as it pertains to HHL, also taking into account a range of disciplines from cultural studies and philosophy to musicology, identifying new trends and possible areas for collaboration, and highlighting areas that are in need of greater attention. The article also touches on frameworks for analyzing language use in general in such areas as ‘crossing’ and ‘styling’.
Heritage Languages: In the ‘Wild’ and in the Classroom
Authors: Polinsky Maria , Kagan Olga
Published: September 2007

Heritage speakers are people raised in a home where one language is spoken who subsequently switch to another dominant language. The version of the home language that they have not completely acquired – heritage language – has only recently been given the attention it deserves from linguists and language instructors. Despite the appearance of great variation among heritage speakers, they fall along a continuum based upon the speakers’ distance from the baseline language. Such a continuum‐based model enables researchers and instructors to classify heritage speakers more accurately and readily. This article discusses the results of research on lower‐proficiency speakers, identifying recurrent features of heritage languages in phonology, morphology, and syntax. Preliminary results indicate that different heritage languages share a number of structural similarities; this finding is important for the understanding of general processes involved in language acquisition. The article also presents implications of the main findings for language education and identifies areas needing further study.
Oxidative Stress in Desminopathies and Myotilinopathies: A Link between Oxidative Damage and Abnormal Protein Aggregation
Authors: Janué Anna , Olivé Montse , Ferrer Isidre
Published: September 2007

Myotilinopathies and desminopathies are subgroups of myofibrillar myopathies (MFM) caused by mutations in myotilin and desmin genes, respectively. They are characterized by the presence of protein aggregates in muscle cells. As oxidation of proteins facilitates their aggregation and makes them more resistant to proteolysis, the present study was geared to analyze oxidative stress in MFM. For this purpose, markers of glycoxidation, lipoxidation and nitration were examined with gel electrophoresis and Western blotting, single immunohistochemistry, and double‐ and triple‐labeling immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy in muscle biopsies from patients suffering from myotilinopathy and desminopathy. Increased levels of glycation‐end products (AGEs), N‐carboxymethyl‐lysine (CML) and N‐carboxyethyl‐lysine (CEL), malondialdehyde‐lysine (MDAL), 4‐hydroxynonenal (HNE) and nitrotyrosine (N‐tyr) were found in MFM. Furthermore, aberrant expression of AGE, CML, CEL, MDAL and HNE, as well as of neuronal, inducible and endothelial nitric oxide synthases (nNOS, iNOS, eNOS), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), was found in muscle fibers containing protein aggregates in myotilinopathies and desminopathies. AGE, ubiquitin and p62 co‐localized in several muscle fibers in MFM. As oxidized proteins are vulnerable to misfolding and are resistant to degradation by the UPS, the present observations support a link between oxidative stress, protein aggregation and abnormal protein deposition in MFMs.
Measurement of Milk Color and Composition: Effect of Dietary Intervention on Western Australian Holstein‐Friesian Cow's Milk Quality
Authors: Solah V.A. , Staines V. , Honda S. , Limley H.A.
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:  Milk fat whiteness is the key to the uniqueness of Western Australian milk. Following a controlled feeding regime, milk was collected fortnightly for 6 mo from 2 treatment groups: dryland and irrigation. The results showed that it was possible to produce high‐quality milk with whiter fat by a controlled feeding regime and diet while maintaining the health of Holstein‐Friesian cows. The reflectance method using infinite optical thickness showed milk fat color differences due to feed could be measured. After 8 wk of the study, milk fat from the dryland treatment was significantly whiter (P < 0.05) than the irrigation treatment with area under curve total reflectance of 902.8 and 838.3, respectively. The official Japanese industry method, Agriculture and Livestock Industries Corp. (ALIC) butter tone, showed that from the 2nd to the 5th collections the color of milk fat from cows fed silage and grain (dryland treatment) was significantly whiter (P < 0.01) with an average butter tone of 0.15 absorbance per gram compared to cows fed green pasture and grain (irrigation treatment) with a butter tone of 0.21 absorbance per gram. Protein and riboflavin levels also affect the whiteness of milk. The study followed the main feeding protocol of dryland dairies and suggests the majority of milk from Western Australia would receive a grade 1 classification, as dryland dairies dominate supply.
Clinical experience with intravenous iron
Authors: AUERBACH MICHAEL
Published: September 2007

Recently there has been an enormous tumult over the use of the erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) epoetin alfa and beta and darbepoetin alfa. Recommendations ranging from stopping their use in certain tumor types to withholding therapy until hemoglobin levels reach 9 g/dL or less have been proposed. These recommendations result from inconclusive and imbalanced trials favoring the placebo groups but which nonetheless raise significant concerns about the potential of ESAs to upregulate erythropoietin receptors on tumor cells. Therefore, there has never been a greater need to ensure that appropriate administration of intravenous iron is given with ESAs. In several published and soon‐to‐be‐published trials comparing adjuvant therapy with intravenous and oral iron, without exception intravenous iron improved hemoglobin and hematopoietic responses, shortened times to maximal response, decreased exposure to ESAs and provided huge cost savings. Furthermore, these benefits were independent of patients’ pretreatment iron parameters, such as serum ferritin, transferrin saturation and the presence or absence of bone marrow hemosiderin. Nonetheless, resistance to intravenous iron usage in oncology abounds. This resistance is due to misinformation and misinterpretation of the incidence and clinical nature of serious adverse events. Now that there are three safe intravenous iron preparations, a new paradigm incorporating intravenous iron to ESA therapy in oncology needs to be examined.
Disrupted in schizophrenia 1 and phosphodiesterase 4B: towards an understanding of psychiatric illness
Authors: Millar J. Kirsty , Mackie Shaun , Clapcote Steven J. , Murdoch Hannah , Pickard Ben S. , Christie Sheila , Muir Walter J. , Blackwood Douglas H. , Roder John C. , Houslay Miles D. , Porteous David J.
Published: September 2007

Disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) is one of the most convincing genetic risk factors for major mental illness identified to date. DISC1 interacts directly with phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B), an independently identified risk factor for schizophrenia. DISC1–PDE4B complexes are therefore likely to be involved in molecular mechanisms underlying psychiatric illness. PDE4B hydrolyses cAMP and DISC1 may regulate cAMP signalling through modulating PDE4B activity. There is evidence that expression of both genes is altered in some psychiatric patients. Moreover, DISC1 missense mutations that give rise to phenotypes related to schizophrenia and depression in mice are located within binding sites for PDE4B. These mutations reduce the association between DISC1 and PDE4B, and one results in reduced brain PDE4B activity. Altered DISC1–PDE4B interaction may thus underlie the symptoms of some cases of schizophrenia and depression. Factors likely to influence this interaction include expression levels, binding site affinities and the DISC1 and PDE4 isoforms involved. DISC1 and PDE4 isoforms are targeted to specific subcellular locations which may contribute to the compartmentalization of cAMP signalling. Dysregulated cAMP signalling in specific cellular compartments may therefore be a predisposing factor for major mental illness.
Stimulated exocytosis of endosomes in goldfish retinal bipolar neurons
Authors: Coggins Michael R. , Grabner Chad P. , Almers Wolfhard , Zenisek David
Published: September 2007

After exocytosis, synaptic vesicle components are selectively retrieved by clathrin‐mediated endocytosis and then re‐used in future rounds of transmitter release. Under some conditions, synaptic terminals in addition perform bulk endocytosis of large membranous sacs. Bulk endocytosis is less selective than clathrin‐mediated endocytosis and probably internalizes components normally targeted to the plasma membrane. Nonetheless, this process plays a major role in some tonic ribbon‐type synapses, which release neurotransmitter for prolonged periods of time. We show here, that large endosomes formed after strong and prolonged stimulation undergo stimulated exocytosis in retinal bipolar neurons. The result suggests how cells might return erroneously internalized components to the plasma membrane, and also demonstrates that synaptic vesicles are not the only neuronal organelle that stains with styryl dyes and undergoes stimulated exocytosis.
Gating of nicotinic ACh receptors; new insights into structural transitions triggered by agonist binding that induce channel opening
Authors: Gay Elaine A. , Yakel Jerrel L.
Published: September 2007

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are in the superfamily of Cys‐loop ligand‐gated ion channels, and are pentameric assemblies of five subunits, with each subunit arranged around the central ion‐conducting pore. The binding of ACh to the extracellular interface between two subunits induces channel opening. With the recent 4 Å resolution of the Torpedo nAChR, and the crystal structure of the related molluscan ACh binding protein, much has been learned about the structure of the ligand binding domain and the channel pore, as well as major structural rearrangements that may confer channel opening. For example, the putative pathway coupling agonist binding to channel gating may include a major rearrangement of the C‐loop within the ligand binding pocket, and the disruption of a salt bridge between an arginine residue at the end of the β10 strand and a glutamate residue in the β1–β2 linker. Here we will review and discuss the latest structural findings aiming to further refine the transduction pathway linking binding to gating for the nAChR channels, and discuss similarities and differences among the different members of this Cys‐loop superfamily of receptors.
Impact of yttrium on structure and mechanical properties of Cr–Al–N thin films
Authors: Rovere Florian , Mayrhofer Paul H.
Published: September 2007

Cr 1 − x Al x N coatings are known for superior mechanical and thermal properties, which make them promising candidates for advanced machining and high temperature applications. Their oxidation resistance can further be improved by alloying oxygen active elements such as yttrium, which promote growths of dense and adherent oxide scales. Based on x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy studies the authors can conclude that our films with an Al∕Cr ratio of ∼1.2 exhibit a single phase NaCl-type crystal structure for the investigated Y-content variation. With increasing YN mole fraction from 0% to 8% the lattice parameter increases from ∼4.11to4.18Å, the hardness increases from ∼31to38GPa, the indentation modulus decreases from ∼497to488GPa, and the residual biaxial compressive stresses decrease from ∼−1.6to−0.6GPa, respectively. The mean crystallite feature size is found to be in the range of 28–43nm for the coatings investigated.
Performance characterization of nonevaporable porous Ti getter films
Authors: Li Chien-Cheng , Huang Jow-Lay , Lin Ran-Jin , Lii Ding-Fwu , Chen Chia-Hao
Published: September 2007

The highly porous Ti film getters on (100) silicon substrates have been successfully grown by dc magnetron sputtering with varying glancing angle. The porous films were formed when the glancing angle was higher than 30°. The larger the glancing angle, the higher the porosity and specific surface area of the Ti films. The porous films were composed of isolated columnar crystals, and they have a larger capability to absorb oxygen than dense Ti films do. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis shows that the exothermal reaction temperature for a dense Ti film is 348°C. However, that for the porous Ti film ranges from 291to394°C. The suitable operation condition of porous Ti film getters can be evaluated using thermal desorption spectroscopy. The reversible and irreversible reactions may occur during gas desorption/adsorption of porous Ti films.
Magnetron sputtering of Ti3SiC2 thin films from a compound target
Authors: Eklund P. , Beckers M. , Frodelius J. , Högberg H. , Hultman L.
Published: September 2007

Ti 3 Si C 2 thin films were synthesized by magnetron sputtering from Ti3SiC2 and Ti targets. Sputtering from a Ti3SiC2 target alone resulted in films with a C content of ∼50at.% or more, due to gas-phase scattering processes and differences in angular and energy distributions between species ejected from the target. Addition of Ti to the deposition flux from a Ti3SiC2 target is shown to bind the excess C in TiCx intergrown with Ti3SiC2 and Ti4SiC3. Additionally, a substoichiometric TiCx buffer layer is shown to serve as a C sink and enable the growth of Ti3SiC2.
Annealing behavior and hardness enhancement of amorphous SiCN thin films
Authors: Ma S. L. , Xu B. , Xu K. W. , Wu X. L. , Chu Paul K.
Published: September 2007

Amorphous silicon carbon nitrogen (SiCN) films deposited on stainless steel by radio frequency magnetron sputtering are annealed at different temperatures in hydrogen to investigate the phase transformation kinetics and the impact on film hardness. The SiCN films with polycrystalline structure are formed after annealing at 900°C and the polycrystalline structures contain SiC, Si3N4, and C3N4 phases. The polycrystalline transformation is discussed using a thermodynamics mechanism. Our results reveal that the emergence of homogeneous particle reinforced composite SiCN structure and polycrystalline phases related to SiC, Si3N4, and C3N4 may be responsible for the hardness enhancement of the annealed SiCN films.
Glancing angle deposition: Fabrication, properties, and applications of micro- and nanostructured thin films
Authors: Hawkeye Matthew M. , Brett Michael J.
Published: September 2007

Physical vapor deposition under conditions of obliquely incident flux and limited adatom diffusion results in a film with a columnar microstructure. These columns will be oriented toward the vapor source and substrate rotation can be used to sculpt the columns into various morphologies. This is the basis for glancing angle deposition (GLAD), a technique for fabricating porous thin films with engineered structures. The origin of the columnar structure characteristic of GLAD films is discussed in terms of nucleation processes and structure zone models. As deposition continues, the columnar structures are influenced by atomic-scale ballistic shadowing and surface diffusion. Competitive growth is observed where the tallest columns grow at the expense of smaller features. The column shape evolves during growth, and power-law scaling behavior is observed as shown in both experimental results and theoretical simulations. Due to the porous nature of the films and the increased surface area, a variety of chemical applications and sensor device architectures are possible. Because the GLAD process provides precise nanoscale control over the film structure, characteristics such as the mechanical, magnetic, and optical properties of the deposited film may be engineered for various applications. Depositing onto prepatterned substrates forces the columns to adopt a planar ordering, an important requirement for photonic crystal applications.