bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of enamel matrix proteins on the periodontal connective tissue‐material interface after wound healing
Authors: Craig R. G. , Kallur S. P. , Inoue M. , Rosenberg P. A. , LeGeros R. Z.
Published: March 2004

The periodontal ligament has the potential to regenerate a complete periodontal connective tissue attachment, starting with the deposition of cementum, on pathologically exposed root surfaces as well as several materials including titanium oxide. However, most commonly used dental materials result in a fibrous encapsulation or a chronic inflammatory response after periodontal wound healing rather than the formation of a periodontal connective tissue attachment. Recently, an extract of porcine enamel matrix (Emdogain®, EMD) has been reported inductive of cementum formation in both in vivo and in vitro studies. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of EMD, when applied to materials previously reported not supportive of periodontal connective tissue formation, on the periodontal connective tissue‐material interface obtained with these materials in vivo. Bilateral osteotomies were performed on the mandible of a Yucatan minipig exposing the buccal root surface of four premolars. A series of four preparations were placed in each root surface that were subsequently filled with calcium hydroxide, gutta percha, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), or left unfilled. One side, in addition, received an application of EMD prior to surgical closure. A bioabsorbable surgical barrier membrane was placed over the osteotomy sites to exclude gingival connective tissue from the wound‐healing environment. The mucoperiosteal flaps were then readapted and sutured in position. The animal was euthanized 10 weeks after the procedure, block sections obtained and prepared for light microscopy. Results demonstrated complete regeneration of alveolar bone and periodontal ligament in all four teeth from the EMD‐treated side. Fibers from the periodontal ligament were observed to insert into a mineralized matrix consistent with cementum on all four root preparations. In contrast, massive root resorption without regeneration of alveolar bone was found on all teeth from the side not treated with EMD. The results of this pilot study suggest that the application of EMD to material surfaces that normally do not support periodontal connective tissue attachment formation can alter the type of periodontal connective tissue interface obtained with these materials. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 69A: 180–187, 2004
Reply to Michael Graubart Did Anybody have to be Schoenberg?
Authors: Silverman Julian
Published: March 2004

When someone asked Schoenberg if he was indeed Schoenberg, he replied: ‘Someone had to be’.
Letter to the Editor
Authors: Craggs Stewart R.
Published: March 2004

May I, in the wake of Mark Doran's excellent and searching review of Jan Swynnoe's book on British Film Music (Tempo no. 226: October 2003), make one or two observations of my own?:
London, Globe Theatre: Music for ‘Dido, Queen of Carthage’
Authors: Barlow Jill
Published: March 2004

Claire van Kampen, the Director of Music at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre on London's Bankside, followed up her jazz score for Macbeth and innovative minimalist style score for Cymbeline – complete with authentic ritualistic temple gongs from Burma – with an intriguing modern score for one of the plays for Season 2003 too.
The impact of trade liberalization on women's job opportunities and earnings in developing countries
Authors: NORDÅS HILDEGUNN KYVIK
Published: March 2004

This paper analyses how trade affects women's job opportunities and earnings through five case studies: Mauritius, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines and Sri Lanka. Women's share of the labour force has increased over time and the wage gap between men and women has narrowed. A positive and statistically significant correlation between exports and women's share of employment is found while there is a statistically significant and negative correlation between women's share in employment and imports. The correlations stem from variation between sectors rather than within sectors over time, indicating that export-competing industries tend to employ women while import-competing industries tend to employ men. Trade liberalization is likely to create jobs for women and over time increase their relative wages.
Dispute settlement corner: United States – Section 110(5) of the US Copyright Act, Recourse to Arbitration under Article 25 of the DSU: would've or should've? Impaired benefits due to copyright infringement
Authors: GROSSMAN GENE M. , MAVROIDIS PETROS C.
Published: March 2004

This dispute between the European Communities and the United States originated when the United States amended its copyright law in a way that nullified and impaired certain benefits promised to the European Communities under the Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property (TRIPs). Article 9.1 of TRIPs requires all WTO members to comply with Articles 1 through 21 of the Berne Convention of 1971. Among the provisions of the Berne Convention thus incorporated into the TRIPs Agreement is one that grants to authors of literary and artistic works the exclusive right to authorize ‘the public communication by loudspeaker or any analogous instrument transmitting, by signs, sounds or images, the broadcast of the work’, and another that grants to authors of dramatic and musical works the exclusive right to authorize ‘any communication to the public of the performance of these works’.
Prey–predator size‐dependent functional response: derivation and rescaling to the real world
Authors: Aljetlawi Albashir A. , Sparrevik Erik , Leonardsson Kjell
Published: March 2004

We derived a functional response function that accounted for both predator and prey size. Laboratory experiments were then performed to investigate the size relationships of the functional response of the benthic isopod Saduria entomon (L.) feeding on Monoporeia affinis (Lindström) amphipods.

The S. entomon predators, in general, showed sigmoid (type III) functional responses. The attack rate of S. entomon was a bent ridge‐shaped function of predator and prey size. The maximum attack rates of small predators were found on small prey, and then attack rate declined rapidly as prey size increased. In large predators attack rate increased slowly up to a maximum for large prey. The shape of the attack rate was dependent on the size scaling of predator and prey body mass in the attack rate function. We suggest that the ridge‐shaped attack rate function found in our study is likely to be general for predators that feed on prey with a large size range. The handling time of small S. entomon increased rapidly as prey size increased. In contrast, we found only small differences in handling time of large predators. The complete functional response may provide size‐refuges for very small and large M. affinis depending on the size‐structure of S. entomon.

To investigate the realism in our functional response estimates, we incorporated the functional response in a consumption model based on the densities and size‐structures of the predator and the prey in the field (Bothnian Sea). We adjusted the attack rate using a correction factor to predict the observed survival of the different age‐classes of M. affinis from field samples. The field data‐based consumption model accounted for 1 year of size‐dependent predation by the size‐structured population of S. entomon on M. affinis. In addition, using a growth model for S. entomon we checked that the predicted consumption by the predator gave realistic growth curves. We found that the experimentally derived attack rates may have been over‐estimated by a factor of 400.
Clinical response to a vacant post space
Authors: Fishelberg G.
Published: March 2004

Aim  To report a case demonstrating a radiolucency developing adjacent to an unfilled post space.

Summary  A mandibular left first molar was root filled before post‐space preparation. The tooth was restored coronally but the post space was left empty, and 14 months later, pain and furcal radiolucency developed. Cleaning, shaping, medicating and filling the post space resulted in the resolution of symptoms and healing of the radiolucency.

Key learning points 

Post space should be prepared under conditions of asepsis.

A post space must not be allowed to remain empty when a tooth is restored.
The use of volume expansion in preterm infants
Authors: Tyler W. , Ewer A. K.
Published: March 2004

There is no consensus of opinion regarding the appropriate use of volume expansion in the sick preterm infant. Recent evidence suggests that excessive volume expansion may increase mortality in this group. We determined the use of volume expansion in non‐surgical preterm infants (<30 weeks gestation) among neonatal consultants in the West Midlands. A questionnaire was sent to 40 consultants working in all 16 neonatal units in the West Midlands region and re‐sent one year later after presentation of interim regional mortality data. Responses were received from 15 units in 2000 and all 16 in 2001. Written guidelines for volume expansion were available in only 6 units (38%) in 2000 compared with 15 (94%) in 2001. The maximum volume expansion considered appropriate in the first 36 h of life reduced from a mean 37 mL/kg (range 15–150 mL/kg) in 2000 to 24 mL/kg (range 10–60 mL/kg) in 2001. In 2000 64% limited volume expansion to ≤ 30 mL/kg (compared with 94% in 2001). Following regional discussion of interim mortality data and the subsequent development of unit guidelines, the prescription of volume expansion in the West Midlands region changed, with a reduction in the mean volume considered appropriate and greater consistency between units. The impact on neonatal outcome needs to be determined.
Postnatal risk factors of retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Kim Tae‐im , Sohn Joonhong , Pi Soo‐young , Yoon Young Hee
Published: March 2004

To investigate the postnatal risk factors of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), we analysed demographic and clinical data abstracted from the medical records of 425 premature babies who were examined for ROP between January 1994 and December 1998 at Asan Medical Centre, Seoul, Korea. ROP developed in 20.7% of the cases studied. A gestational age (GA) of ≤ 28 weeks and birthweight (BW) of ≤ 1000 g were the most significant risk factors. Ventilator care for ≥ 48 h, apnoea, and use of surfactant independently increased the incidence of ROP. Furthermore, frequent apnoeic attacks increased the progression of pre‐threshold ROP to threshold ROP. Therefore, as well as GA and BW, apnoea, prolonged use of a ventilator, and surfactant therapy are significant independent risk factors for ROP. In addition, apnoea may not only increase the risk of developing ROP, but may also worsen pre‐existing ROP.
A cytosolic glucosyltransferase is required for conversion of starch to sucrose in Arabidopsis leaves at night
Authors: Chia Tansy , Thorneycroft David , Chapple Andrew , Messerli Gaëlle , Chen Jychian , Zeeman Samuel C. , Smith Steven M. , Smith Alison M.
Published: March 2004

Maltose is exported from the Arabidopsis chloroplast as the main product of starch degradation at night. To investigate its fate in the cytosol, we characterised plants with mutations in a gene encoding a putative glucanotransferase (disproportionating enzyme; DPE2), a protein similar to the maltase Q (MalQ) gene product involved in maltose metabolism in bacteria. Use of a DPE2 antiserum revealed that the DPE2 protein is cytosolic. Four independent mutant lines lacked this protein and displayed a decreased capacity for both starch synthesis and starch degradation in leaves. They contained exceptionally high levels of maltose, and elevated levels of glucose, fructose and other malto‐oligosaccharides. Sucrose levels were lower than those in wild‐type plants, especially at the start of the dark period. A glucosyltransferase activity, capable of transferring one of the glucosyl units of maltose to glycogen or amylopectin and releasing the other, was identified in leaves of wild‐type plants. Its activity was sufficient to account for the rate of starch degradation. This activity was absent from dpe2 mutant plants. Based on these results, we suggest that DPE2 is an essential component of the pathway from starch to sucrose and cellular metabolism in leaves at night. Its role is probably to metabolise maltose exported from the chloroplast. We propose a pathway for the conversion of starch to sucrose in an Arabidopsis leaf.
Selective and powerful stress gene expression in Arabidopsis in response to malondialdehyde
Authors: Weber Hans , Chételat Aurore , Reymond Philippe , Farmer Edward E.
Published: March 2004

The provenance, half‐life and biological activity of malondialdehyde (MDA) were investigated in Arabidopsis thaliana. We provide genetic confirmation of the hypothesis that MDA originates from fatty acids containing more than two methylene‐linked double bonds, showing that tri‐unsaturated fatty acids are the in vivo source of up to 75% of MDA. The abundance of the combined pool of free and reversibly bound MDA did not change dramatically in stress, although a significant increase in the free MDA pool under oxidative conditions was observed. The half‐life of infiltrated MDA indicated rapid metabolic turnover/sequestration. Exposure of plants to low levels of MDA using a recently developed protocol powerfully upregulated many genes on a cDNA microarray with a bias towards those implicated in abiotic/environmental stress (e.g. ROF1 and XERO2). Remarkably, and in contrast to the activities of other reactive electrophile species (i.e. small vinyl ketones), none of the pathogenesis‐related (PR) genes tested responded to MDA. The use of structural mimics of MDA isomers suggested that the propensity of the molecule to act as a cross‐linking/modifying reagent might contribute to the activation of gene expression. Changes in the concentration/localisation of unbound MDA in vivo could strongly affect stress‐related transcription.
Mutants for photosystem I subunit D of Arabidopsis thaliana: effects on photosynthesis, photosystem I stability and expression of nuclear genes for chloroplast functions
Authors: Ihnatowicz Anna , Pesaresi Paolo , Varotto Claudio , Richly Erik , Schneider Anja , Jahns Peter , Salamini Francesco , Leister Dario
Published: March 2004

In Arabidopsis thaliana, the D‐subunit of photosystem I (PSI‐D) is encoded by two functional genes, PsaD1 and PsaD2, which are highly homologous. Knock‐out alleles for each of the loci have been identified by a combination of forward and reverse genetics. The double mutant psad1‐1 psad2‐1 is seedling‐lethal, high‐chlorophyll‐fluorescent and deficient for all tested PSI subunits, indicating that PSI‐D is essential for photosynthesis. In addition, psad1‐1 psad2‐1 plants show a defect in the accumulation of thylakoid multiprotein complexes other than PSI. Of the single‐gene mutations, psad2 plants behave like wild‐type (WT) plants, whereas psad1‐1 markedly affects the accumulation of PsaD mRNA and protein, and photosynthetic electron flow. Additional effects of the psad1‐1 mutation include a decrease in growth rate under greenhouse conditions and downregulation of the mRNA expression of most genes involved in the light phase of photosynthesis. In the same mutant, a marked decrease in the levels of PSI and PSII polypeptides is evident, as well as a light‐green leaf coloration and increased photosensitivity. Increased dosage of PsaD2 in the psad1‐1 background restores the WT phenotype, indicating that PSI‐D1 and PSI‐D2 have redundant functions.
Sudden illness and biographical flow in narratives of stroke recovery
Authors: Faircloth Christopher A. , Boylstein Craig , Rittman Maude , Young Mary Ellen , Gubrium Jaber
Published: March 2004

Abstract  The conceptual framework of biographical disruption has dominated studies into the everyday experience of chronic illness. Biographical disruption assumes that the illness presents the person with an intense crisis, regardless of other mitigating factors. However, our data suggests that the lives of people who have a particular illness that is notably marked by sudden onset are not inevitably disrupted. Extensive qualitative interviews were conducted with a sample of veteran non‐Hispanic white, African‐American, and Puerto Rican Hispanic stroke survivors, at one month, six months and twelve months after being discharged home from hospital. Narrative excerpts are presented to describe specific discursive resources these people use that offset the disrupting connotations of stroke. Our findings suggest a biographical flow more than a biographical disruption to specific chronic illnesses once certain social indicators such as age, other health concerns and previous knowledge of the illness experience, are taken into account. This difference in biographical construction of the lived self has been largely ignored in the literature. Treating all survivor experiences as universal glosses over some important aspects of the survival experience, resulting in poorly designed interventions, and in turn, low outcomes for particular people.
Female Trouble: The Menstrual Self-Evaluation Scale and Women's Self-Objectification
Authors: Roberts Tomi-Ann
Published: March 2004

Strong cultural messages are sent to women that their bodies are unacceptable as they are, thus encouraging engagement in a variety of body-altering practices. It seems that one of the obligations that women have in a culture that sexually objectifies their bodies is to conceal their bodies' more physical functions, such as menstruation. A new scale was constructed to measure women's attitudes and emotions toward menstruation. A study was conducted to test the relationship between self-objectification and women's menstrual self-evaluations. Results showed that women who internalize a more sexually objectified view of their physical selves have more negative attitudes and emotions, including disgust and shame, toward their own menstrual cycles.
Exploring Feminist Women's Body Consciousness
Authors: Rubin Lisa R. , Nemeroff Carol J. , Russo Nancy Felipe
Published: March 2004

In a qualitative investigation of young feminists' experience of body consciousness, 25 feminist women each participated in one of 6 focus groups examining the ways they experienced body image and negotiated cultural messages about women's appearance. Participants described their experience with objectification and its impact on their body image, sense of self, and relationships with other women. Although feminism provided an alternative way to understand cultural messages and reframe negative thoughts, this understanding did not necessarily affect aesthetic reactions. Participants experienced conflict between their feminist beliefs and their feelings about beauty ideals and their own appearance. This conflict is interpreted in terms of a mere exposure effect and existing gender/power relations. Suggestions of ways feminist psychologists can support young women's strategies for resisting negative cultural messages are provided.
Deterministic Generation of Single Photons from One Atom Trapped in a Cavity
Authors: McKeever J. , Boca A. , Boozer A. D. , Miller R. , Buck J. R. , Kuzmich A. , Kimble H. J.
Published: March 2004

A single cesium atom trapped within the mode of an optical cavity is used to generate single photons on demand. The photon wave packets are emitted as a Gaussian beam with temporal profile and repetition rate controlled by external driving fields. Each generation attempt is inferred to succeed with a probability near unity, whereas the efficiency for creating an unpolarized photon in the total cavity output is 0.69 ± 0.10, as limited by passive cavity losses. An average of 1.4 × 10
4
photons are produced by each trapped atom. These results constitute an important step in quantum information science, for example, toward the realization of distributed quantum networking.
Both fasting glucose production and disappearance are abnormal in people with “mild” and “severe” type 2 diabetes
Authors: Basu Rita , Schwenk W. Frederick , Rizza Robert A.
Published: March 2004

To determine whether regulation of fasting endogenous glucose production (EGP) and glucose disappearance (Rd) are both abnormal in people with type 2 diabetes, EGP and Rd were measured in 7 “severe” (SD), 9 “mild” (MD), and 12 nondiabetic (ND) subjects (12.7 ± 0.6 vs. 8.1 ± 0.4 vs. 5.1 ± 0.4 mmol/l) after an overnight fast and during a hyperglycemic pancreatic clamp. Fasting insulin was higher in both the SD and MD than ND subjects, whereas fasting glucagon only was increased ( P < 0.05) in SD. Fasting EGP, glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, and Rd all were increased ( P < 0.05) in SD but did not differ in MD or ND. On the other hand, when glucose (∼11 mmol/l), insulin (∼72 pmol/l), and glucagon (∼140 pg/ml) concentrations were raised to values similar to those observed in the severe diabetic subjects, EGP was higher ( P < 0.001) and Rd lower ( P < 0.01) in both SD and MD than in ND. The higher EGP in the SD and MD than ND during the clamp was the result of increased ( P < 0.05) rates of glycogenolysis (4.2 ± 1.7 vs. 3.5 ± 1.0 vs. 0.0 ± 0.8 μmol·kg−1·min−1), since gluconeogenesis did not differ among groups. We conclude that neither glucose production nor disappearance is appropriate for the prevailing glucose and insulin concentrations in people with mild or severe diabetes. Both increased rates of gluconeogenesis (likely because of higher glucagon concentrations) and lack of suppression of glycogenolysis contribute to excessive glucose production in type 2 diabetics.
Participation of the Primate Presupplementary Motor Area in Sequencing Multiple Saccades
Authors: Isoda Masaki , Tanji Jun
Published: March 2004

The aim of this study was to investigate whether, and how, the presupplementary motor area (pre-SMA) is involved in the organization of oculomotor sequence. We trained two monkeys to perform three center-out saccades in six different orders. Each sequence consisted of a block of eight trials, initially with visual instruction (4 trials) and then from memory (4 trials). During memory-guided performance of sequential saccades, ∼75% of task-related neuronal activity was selective for, or influenced by, the numerical position of saccades within each sequence (rank order). Neurons tuned for the direction of saccades were in the minority. We also found that 22% of sampled neurons increased their activity preferentially at a transitional period when monkeys were in the process of renewal of required saccade sequences. These data indicate that the pre-SMA is involved in the organization of oculomotor sequence, particularly in representing rank-order information and in updating sequence information. Together with previous reports on the participation of the pre-SMA in sequencing of multiple arm movements, we propose here that this area may contribute to cognitive aspects of sequential behavioral control, in an effector-independent manner.
A plug-in program to perform Hanawalt or Fink search-indexing using organics entries in the ICDD PDF-4/organics 2003 database
Authors: Faber J. , Weth C. A. , Bridge J.
Published: March 2004

In an attempt to fill a gap between fully automatic search/match programs and purely manual methods based on paper products, a relational database plug-in has been developed that functions as a PC-based Search/Index program for extracting information from PDF-4 powder diffraction databases. The plug-in provides an adjustable search window and match window to account for experimental errors. Both Hanawalt and Fink search methods are incorporated. In this paper, we report search-indexing results obtained with the new PDF-4 plug-in applied to a new relational database, the PDF-4/Organics 2003. This database has 24 385 experimental entries and 122 816 calculated patterns derived from the Cambridge Crystallographic Database. We introduce a goodness of match (GOM) parameter to describe the relative agreement between the experimental input data and selected reference patterns from the PDF-4/Organics 2003. The relevance of the GOM is illustrated in several example problems. Multiphase samples can be treated on a phase-by-phase basis.
Tyrosine kinase receptor RON functions downstream of the erythropoietin receptor to induce expansion of erythroid progenitors
Authors: van den Akker Emile , van Dijk Thamar , Parren-van Amelsvoort Martine , Grossmann Katja S. , Schaeper Ute , Toney-Earley Kenya , Waltz Susan E. , Löwenberg Bob , von Lindern Marieke
Published: March 2004

Erythropoietin (EPO) is required for cell survival during differentiation and for progenitor expansion during stress erythropoiesis. Although signaling pathways may couple directly to docking sites on the EPO receptor (EpoR), additional docking molecules expand the signaling platform of the receptor. We studied the roles of the docking molecules Grb2-associated binder-1 (Gab1) and Gab2 in EPO-induced signal transduction and erythropoiesis. Inhibitors of phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase and Src kinases suppressed EPO-dependent phosphorylation of Gab2. In contrast, Gab1 activation depends on recruitment and phosphorylation by the tyrosine kinase receptor RON, with which it is constitutively associated. RON activation induces the phosphorylation of Gab1, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and protein kinase B (PKB) but not of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (Stat5). RON activation was sufficient to replace EPO in progenitor expansion but not in differentiation. In conclusion, we elucidated a novel mechanism specifically involved in the expansion of erythroblasts involving RON as a downstream target of the EpoR. (Blood. 2004;103:4457-4465)
Implementing the care programme approach in psychotherapeutic settings
Authors: Mace Chris
Published: March 2004

The care programme approach (CPA) should be implemented across all mental health services. However, the specific needs of psychotherapeutic settings were not recognised in the official documentation. The scope for conflict between therapeutic practices and CPA requirements may have increased following revision of CPA guidelines. A recent survey of consultants in psychotherapy confirmed that implementation of CPA remained uneven. The additional time required, threats to confidentiality and a negative impact on the therapeutic relationship were common concerns. Positive effects on assessment procedures and liaison between services were also reported. Practical suggestions for minimising potential negative effects of CPA are given. It is recommended that all services providing psychological therapies develop a written policy for the local implementation of CPA.
Pervasive refusal syndrome
Authors: Lask Bryan
Published: March 2004

Pervasive refusal syndrome is a severe, pervasive and life-threatening disorder. Most commonly seen in girls between the ages of 8 and 15, although also affecting boys and younger age groups, it is characterised by a profound and pervasive refusal to eat, drink, talk, walk and engage in any form of self-care. A determined resistance to treatment is a striking component of the condition. The causes are unclear, but likely to be complex, multiple and associated with a sense of hopelessness. Treatment needs to be comprehensive and is based on supporting the child in recovering at her own pace, while ensuring physical safety and well-being. The prognosis is good, provided treatment is appropriate, but recovery tends to take a year or more.
Fluoxetine May Influence Lordosis of Rats through Effects on Midbrain 3α,5α‐THP Concentrations
Authors: FRYE CHERYL A. , PETRALIA SANDRA M. , RHODES MADELINE E. , STEIN BENJAMIN
Published: March 2004

Abstract: 5α‐pregnan‐3α‐ol‐20‐one (3α,5α‐THP) in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) mediates lordosis of rodents. If fluoxetine's effects on lordosis are mediated in part by midbrain 3α,5α‐THP, then fluoxetine regimens that decrease and increase lordosis would be expected to respectively lower and elevate midbrain 3α,5‐THP levels. Experiment 1: Ovariectomized (ovx) rats received estradiol benzoate (EB; 5 μg, SC) at 0 and 24 h and fluoxetine (20 mg/kg, IP) or vehicle 30 min before sex testing and tissue collection. Other rats received fluoxetine (10 mg/kg, IP) or vehicle for 15 days followed by EB‐priming and testing. Systemic acute or chronic fluoxetine significantly decreased lordosis and midbrain 3α,5α‐THP levels compared to vehicle. Experiment 2: Ovx rats with unilateral cannula to the VTA were primed with EB (5 μg; 0, 24 h) and/or progesterone (0 or 100 μg; 44 h, SC). At 47.5 h, fluoxetine (3.6 mM) or vehicle was infused to the VTA. At 48 h, rats were tested. Administering fluoxetine to the VTA significantly increased lordosis and midbrain 3α,5α‐THP levels compared to vehicle infusions. Experiment 3: Ovx EB‐primed rats were tested prior to, and 30 min after, treatmemt with acute fluoxetine (20 mg/kg, IP). Rats were then infused with 3α,5α‐THP (100 ng) or vehicle to the VTA and were retested. 3α,5α‐THP, but not vehicle, to the VTA reversed acute fluoxetine's inhibitory effects on lordosis. Together, these data suggest fluoxetine may alter lordosis in part through actions of 3α‐THP in the midbrain.
Pathogenesis in Menstrual Cycle‐Linked CNS Disorders
Authors: BÄCKSTRÖM TORBJÖRN , ANDERSSON AGNETA , ANDREÉ LOTTA , BIRZNIECE VITA , BIXO MARIE , BJÖRN INGER , HAAGE DAVID , ISAKSSON MONICA , JOHANSSON INGA‐MAJ , LINDBLAD CHARLOTT , LUNDGREN PER , NYBERG SIGRID , ÖDMARK INGA‐STINA , STRÖMBERG JESSICA , SUNDSTRÖM‐POROMAA INGER , TURKMEN SAHRUH , WAHLSTRÖM GÖRAN , WANG MINGDE , WIHLBÄCK ANNA‐CARIN , ZHU DI , ZINGMARK ELISABETH
Published: March 2004

Abstract: That 3alpha‐hydroxy‐5alpha/beta‐pregnane steroids (GABA steroids) have modulatory effects on the GABA‐A receptor is well known. In behavioral studies in animals high exogenous dosages give concentrations not usually reached in the brain under physiological conditions. Animal and human studies show that GABA‐A receptor‐positive modulators like barbiturates, benzodiazepines, alcohol, and allopregnanolone have a bimodal effect. In pharmacological concentrations they are CNS depressants, anesthetic, antiepileptic, and anxiolytic. In low dosages and concentrations, reached endogenously, they can induce adverse emotional reactions in up to 20% of individuals. GABA steroids can also induce tolerance to themselves and similar substances, and rebound occurs at withdrawal. Menstrual cycle‐linked disorders can be understood by the concept that they are caused by the action of endogenously produced GABA‐steroids through three mechanisms: (a) direct action, (b) tolerance induction, and (c) withdrawal effect. Examples of symptoms and disorders caused by the direct action of GABA steroids are sedation, memory and learning disturbance, clumsiness, increased appetite, worsening of petit mal epilepsy, negative mood as tension, irritability and depression during hormone treatments, and the premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). A continuous exposure to GABA steroids causes tolerance, and women with PMDD are less sensitive to GABA‐A modulators. A malfunctioning GABA‐A receptor system is related to stress sensitivity, concentration difficulties, loss of impulse control, irritability, anxiety, and depression. An example of withdrawal effect is “catamenial epilepsy,” when seizures increase during menstruation after the withdrawal of GABA steroids. Similar phenomena occur at stress since the adrenals produce GABA steroids during stress.
Steroid Regulation of GnRH Neurons
Authors: MOENTER SUZANNE M. , DEFAZIO R ANTHONY , STRAUME MARTIN , NUNEMAKER CRAIG S.
Published: March 2004

Abstract: GnRH neurons form the final common pathway for regulating fertility. Estradiol feedback controls GnRH release, but the cellular mechanisms are unknown. Targeted extracellular recordings were used to examine the firing rate of GFP‐identified GnRH neurons in a model for estradiol negative feedback (OVX vs. OVX+E). Episodes of increased firing rate occurred in both groups with intervals consistent with hormone secretion; estradiol more than doubled this interval. Spectral analysis identified additional rhythmic activity that was grouped by period: bursts (<100 s), clusters (100–1000 s), or episodes (>1000 s). Bursts were trains of action currents. Estradiol did not alter burst characteristics, but rather changed the patterning of inter‐burst intervals to increase the period of the low‐frequency episode rhythm. To change interburst‐interval, estradiol might alter conductances in GnRH neurons, such as potassium currents. Whole‐cell voltage‐clamp revealed that estradiol affected the amplitude, decay time, and the voltage dependence of A‐type potassium currents in GnRH neurons. Blockade of protein kinases reversed some but not all effects of estradiol. Consistent with changes in the A‐current, estradiol increased excitability in GnRH neurons. Estradiol thus targets multiple mechanisms to alter GnRH neuron firing patterns, and the balance of stimulatory and inhibitory actions determines whether the integrated response is to increase or to decrease release.
Gonadectomy Affects Hormonal and Behavioral Responses to Repetitive Nociceptive Stimulation in Male Rats
Authors: ALOISI ANNA MARIA , CECCARELLI ILARIA , FIORENZANI PAOLO
Published: March 2004

Abstract: Sex differences have been observed repeatedly in chronic pain syndromes in both humans and animals, with females showing a higher incidence; it is likely that the gonadal hormones are responsible for these differences. To examine the role of male gonadal hormones on repetitive nociceptive stimulation, we studied male rats, half of them gonadectomized (GDX) and half left intact (INT). Starting from the third week after gonadectomy, they were subjected to the formalin test once a week for 3 weeks (50 μl formalin 5% injected s.c. in the dorsum of the hind paw: right, left, and right). Formalin‐induced licking, flexing, and jerking of the injected paw were recorded and analyzed for each of the three trials. Analysis of variance showed significant differences between GDX and INT animals depending on the trial considered: Trial 1: the GDX and INT groups showed a similar amount of licking, flexing, and paw‐jerk; Trials 2 and 3: these responses showed a sort of adaptation in INT animals, not present in the GDX ones, resulting in lower levels of pain responses in INT than GDX. Corticosterone was higher in GDX animals than in INT animals. Testosterone plasma levels were drastically decreased by gonadectomy, whereas estradiol was increased. These data indicate that male gonadal hormones play a key role in inhibiting the behavioral responses to repeated nociceptive stimulation. This suggests that the lower incidence of chronic pain syndromes in males could be caused by the presence of these hormones.
Sex Steroid Regulation of Microglial Cell Activation
Authors: DREW PAUL D. , CHAVIS JANET A. , BHATT RENU
Published: March 2004

Abstract: Multiple sclerosis (MS) occurs more commonly in females than males. However, the mechanisms resulting in gender differences in MS are unknown. Several studies have suggested that sex steroids influence the development and severity of MS. For example, pregnancy influences MS symptoms, with remission in the third trimester of gestation, followed by exacerbation in the postpartum period. In addition, oral contraceptives containing female sex steroids have been associated with a lower risk of developing MS and decreased disability. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an autoimmune disorder initiated by T cells reactive against central nervous system (CNS) antigens. EAE is characterized by inflammation and demyelination of the CNS, and by remittent paralysis—features consistent with MS. Recent studies have suggested that female sex steroids may modulate EAE, at least in part, through effects on T cells. For example, sex steroids shift T cells toward a Th2 phenotype in vitro, and cytokines produced by Th2 cells generally suppress EAE. Activated microglia also are believed to contribute to MS pathology; perhaps due in part to production of nitric oxide (NO) and TNF‐α, molecules which can be toxic to CNS cells, including oligodendrocytes. We are currently investigating the role of sex steroids in modulating microglial cell function in relation to MS. It is hoped that elucidation of the mechanisms by which sex steroids modulate CNS inflammation will lead to future therapies in the treatment of MS.
Facile Conversion of 1-Methyl Group of Guaiazuleue into 1-Formyl Group
Authors: Okajima Toshiya , Kurokawa Shinji
Published: March 2004

1-Formyl-7-isopropyl-4-methylazulene (4) has been synthesized by DDQ oxidation method of 1-methyl group of guaiazulene (1). The overall synthetic procedures from 1 to 4 were completed within 2 h, and almost quantitative yield was achieved. The compound (4) was inaccessible so far, because of a poor yield of 4 in its total synthesis (<5%, overall), as well as in its preparation by non-selective oxidation of 1 (<1%).
Syntheses of Silver Nanofilms, Nanorods, and Nanowires by a Microwave-polyol Method in the Presence of Pt Seeds and Polyvinylpyrrolidone
Authors: Tsuji Masaharu , Nishizawa Yuki , Hashimoto Masayuki , Tsuji Takeshi
Published: March 2004

AgNO3 was reduced by ethylene glycol (EG) in the presence of Pt seeds and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) under microwave heating. In addition to spherical nanoparticles, single-crystalline silver nano-films, rods, and wires were produced. The relative number ratio of nanorods and nanowire to the total silver nanostructures was <14%. The formation mechanism of anisotropic silver nanostructures was discussed.
Deposition of Nanostructured Diamond-like Carbon Films on Al Substrate by Facile Electrochemical Route
Authors: Jiang He-qing , Huang Li-na , Zhang Zhi-jun , Xu Tao , Liu Wei-min
Published: March 2004

Diamond-like carbon (DLC) films were deposited on Al substrate by electrolysis of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) at relatively low voltage (150 V). The morphology of the sample was investigated by SEM, indicating that the film was composed of compact grains about 100 nm. The analysis of the films by XPS, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy revealed that the deposits are typical hydrogenated DLC films.
Two‐dimensional resistivity imaging: a tool in archaeoseismology. An example from ancient Sagalassos (Southwest Turkey)
Authors: Similox‐Tohon Dominique , Vanneste Kris , Sintubin Manuel , Muchez Philippe , Waelkens Marc
Published: March 2004

The ancient Pisidian town of Sagalassos (southwest Turkey) was struck by several earthquakes during Roman and early Byzantine times and was abandoned around the middle of the seventh centuryAD, partly as the result of a devastating earthquake. A nearby epicentre is postulated, although the causative fault has not yet been identified. The identification of such an active fault is, however, important with respect to the assessment of the seismic hazard of the area. Two‐dimensional resistivity imaging has been used to detect the presence of an active normal fault passing underneath Sagalassos, as evidenced by geological, geomorphological and archaeoseismological observations. The resistivity profiles reveal the presence of five stratigraphical layers, i.e. from bottom to top: the bedrock composed of either limestone or ophiolitic me lange, the weathered top of this bedrock, old colluvial material, recent colluvial material that covers archaeological structures and recent scree deposits. The presence of active normal faults is, moreover, indicated by the displacement of the bedrock and the colluvial material on top of it. Offsets of archaeological structures at Sagalassos are likely to be the result of historical reactivations of these faults. The limestone front, overlooking Sagalassos from the north, probably corresponds to the degraded fault plane of the detected fault zone. Sagalassos was thus built on the hanging wall of an active normal fault. Two‐dimensional resistivity imaging proved to be an efficient tool in archaeoseismology. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ground penetrating radar survey over a Roman building at Groundwell Ridge, Blunsdon St Andrew, Swindon, UK
Authors: Linford N. T. , Linford P. K.
Published: March 2004

A ground penetrating Radar (GPR) survey was conducted over well‐preserved building remains revealed during a previous geophysical survey (1996) covering an apparent complex of Roman activity discovered at Groundwell Ridge to the north of Swindon, UK. Despite unfavourable, clay‐rich soil conditions, the GPR survey provided a detailed plan of the Roman remains to a depth of approximately 1 m, confirming their survival in the very near surface. The GPR results complement the previous earth resistance and magnetic surveys and, together, the data suggest the presence of a high status Roman building, possibly incorporating thermoremanent features, for instance associated with a hypocaust system. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Imaging geophysical data—taking the viewer into account
Authors: Dennis T. J.
Published: March 2004

A common way of presenting geophysical data from two‐dimensional sources is as a grey‐scale image. Some theoretical background to discrete image representation is described, and the deleterious effects of inappropriate (too sparse) sampling and display of such images discussed in an archaeological context. In high‐quality images, such as magazine illustrations or digital television, the sampling densities can be sufficiently high to avoid the appearance of artefacts. Geophysical images in contrast are often sampled at very low densities; if the effective area of each sample is significantly less than the sample spacing, then the classic effect called ‘aliasing’ in communication engineering, caused by the violation of Nyquist's criterion, will be seen. Knowledge of the sensor's footprint can be used to select an appropriate sample density, and so minimize this source of distortion. To maximize the visibility of what may be low‐contrast structures immersed in a high level of background noise, it is helpful also to consider the bandpass nature of the spatial frequency response of the human visual system. The non‐linear phenomenon of visual masking is shown to influence the choice on presentation methods. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Simple, Non‐Nucleosidic Base Surrogate Increases the Duplex Stability of DNA Containing an Abasic Site
Authors: Langenegger Simon M. , Häner Robert
Published: March 2004

Abasic sites represent a common type of lesion in DNA. If not repaired, they can lead to mutations during replication or to cell death. Due to their biological importance, there is a strong interest in methods of recognizing abasic sites in DNA both for diagnostic and also for potential pharmaceutical applications. Extended aromatic residues can have a substantial positive influence on the stability of double‐stranded DNA containing abasic sites. We report here the use of a simple, non‐nucleosidic phenanthrene as a base surrogate, which effectively enhances the duplex stability of DNA with an abasic site. The influence of the linker length on the stability of the duplex is investigated. Data and model considerations indicate that stabilization is a result of stacking interactions between the phenanthrene and DNA base pairs.
Synthesis and Properties of Oligonucleotides Carrying Cryptolepine Derivatives
Authors: Eritja Ramon
Published: March 2004

A carboxy derivative of the antimalarial cytotoxic drug cryptolepine was introduced into synthetic oligonucleotides by reaction of the carboxy derivative of cryptolepine with oligonucleotides carrying an amino group either at the 3′‐ or at the 5′‐end. Oligonucleotides carrying the cryptolepine derivative bind their complementary sequences with greater affinity than unmodified ones. When cryptolepine is attached to a polypyrimidine oligonucleotide designed to form a parallel triplex, the triplex shows none or weak stabilization.
Kinetic Analysis of the Reactions Catalyzed by Histidine and Phenylalanine Ammonia Lyases
Authors: Viergutz Sandra , Rétey János
Published: March 2004

Although both the structures and the reactions of histidine and phenylalanine ammonia lyases (HAL and PAL) are very similar, the former shows a primary kinetic deuterium (D) isotope effect, while the latter does not. In the HAL reaction, the release of ammonia is partially rate‐determining and is slower than the release of the product (E)‐urocanate (4), whereas in the PAL reaction, the release of (E)‐cinnamate (2) is the rate‐limiting step. With (2S,3S)‐[3‐2H1]phenylalanine (1a), we determined the kinetic D isotope effects with the PAL mutants Q487A, Y350F, L137 H, and the double mutant L137 H/Q487E. The kH/kD values for the former two were of the same magnitude as with wild‐type PAL (1.20±0.07), while the exchange of L137 to H almost doubled the effect (kH/kD=2.32±0.01). We conclude that L137 is part of the hydrophobic pocket harboring the phenyl group of the substrate/product and is responsible for its strong binding. The stability of the HAL ammonia complex was demonstrated 40 years ago. Here, we show that, in contrast to the former assumption, ammonia in the complex is not covalently bound to the prosthetic electrophile, 3,5‐dihydro‐5‐methylidene‐4H‐imidazol‐4‐one (MIO; 5). We carried out experiments with a mutant enzyme lacking MIO and exhibiting ca. 103 times less activity. Nevertheless, the enzymeammonia complex was formed, and the mutant behaved upon addition of (E)‐[14C]urocanate (4a) like wild‐type HAL. We conclude, therefore, that ammonia is bound in the complex by Coulomb forces as ammonium ion and can be released only after (E)‐urocanate (4).
Metapleural‐ and Postpharyngeal‐Gland Secretions from Workers of the Ants Solenopsis invicta and S. geminata
Authors: Cabrera Aivlé , Williams David , Hernández José V. , Caetano Flavio H. , Jaffe Klaus
Published: March 2004

Chemical analyses by GCMS of the metapleural glands (MG) from workers of Solenopsis invicta and S. geminata revealed for the first time the chemical composition of these glands and showed small differences between the two species. The MG of both species contain oleic, stearic, linoleic, and palmitic acid. Both ants, in addition, have small but significant amounts of hydrocarbons in their MG reservoir, which are the same as those found in their postpharyngeal glands (PPG). The PPG of both species contain alkanes, alkenes, and Me‐branched alkanes. Each species is characterized by a specific composition of PPG chemicals with some overlap between species. These results suggest that the MG synthesizes mainly palmitic, linoleic, oleic, and stearic acids in these two ants, whereas PPG contains hydrocarbon mixes that widely vary between these two phylogenetically related species.
Strain field measurements of rubber by image analysis and design criteria for laminated rubber bearings (LRB)
Authors: Sujeewa Lewangamage Chamindalal , Abe Masato , Fujino Yozo , Yoshida Junji
Published: March 2004

Although seismic isolation rubber bearings in bridges and buildings have proven to be a very effective passive method for reducing earthquake‐induced forces, a detailed mechanical modeling of the rubber that is used in bearings under large strains has not been established. Therefore, a 3D model of failure behavior and the design criteria for the safety evaluation of seismic isolation bearings have not yet been developed. This paper presents: (1) correlation‐based template‐matching algorithms to measure large strain fields of continua; (2) a failure criterion for rubber; and (3) the design criteria for the safety evaluation of laminated algorithms, data‐validation algorithms were developed and implemented to eliminate possible unrealistic displacement vectors present in the measured displacement field. The algorithms were successfully employed in the strain field measurement of LRB and rubber materials that are subjected to failure. The measured local strains for rubber material at failure were used to develop a failure criterion for rubber. The validity of the proposed criterion was evaluated by applying it to the LRB; the criterion was introduced into a 3D finite element model of LRB, compared with the experimental results of bearings failure, and verified. Finally, design criteria are proposed for LRB for the safety evaluation. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.