bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absorption of Nickel, Chromium, and Iron by the Root Surface of Primary Molars Covered with Stainless Steel Crowns
Authors: Keinan David , Mass Eliyahu , Zilberman Uri
Published: January 2011

Objective. The purpose of this study was to analyze the absorption of metal ions released from stainless steel crowns by root surface of primary molars.Study Design. Laboratory research: The study included 34 primary molars, exfoliated or extracted during routine dental treatment. 17 molars were covered with stainless-steel crowns for more than two years and compared to 17 intact primary molars. Chemical content of the mesial or distal root surface, 1 mm apically to the crown or the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), was analyzed. An energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) was used for chemical analysis.Results. Higher amounts of nickel, chromium, and iron (5-6 times) were found in the cementum of molars covered with stainless-steel crowns compared to intact molars. The differences between groups were highly significant ().Significance. Stainless-steel crowns release nickel, chromium, and iron in oral environment, and the ions are absorbed by the primary molars roots. The additional burden of allergenic metals should be reduced if possible.
Interferonβ-1b Induces the Expression of RGS1 a Negative Regulator of G-Protein Signaling
Authors: Tran Tiffany , Paz Pedro , Velichko Sharlene , Cifrese Jill , Belur Praveen , Yamaguchi Ken D. , Ku Karin , Mirshahpanah Parham , Reder Anthony T. , Croze Ed
Published: January 2011

We present evidence of a link between interferonβ-1b (IFN-β) and G-protein signaling by demonstrating that IFN-β can induce the expression of the negative regulator of G-protein signaling 1 (RGS1). RGS1 reduces G-protein activation and immune cell migration by interacting with heterotrimeric G-proteins and enhancing their intrinsic GTPase activity. In this study, IFN-β treatment resulted in the induction of RGS1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), monocytes, T cells, and B cells. Induction of RGS1 by IFN-β was concentration dependent and observed at both the RNA and protein level. Other members of the RGS family were not induced by IFN-β, and induction of RGS1 required the activation of the IFN receptor. In addition, RGS1 induction was observed in PBMCs obtained from IFN-β-treated multiple sclerosis patients suggesting a possible, as yet unexplored, involvement of G-protein regulation in disease treatment. The upregulation of RGS1 by IFN-β has not been previously reported.
Statistical Survey of Deaths from Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer in Japan during 54 Years
Authors: Ohtsuka Hisashi
Published: January 2011

The author analyzed the annual trends in the number of deaths from nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) from 1955 to 2008 in Japan on the basis of the data from the Vital Statistics of Japan. The general trends in the number of deaths from NMSC were downward between 1979 to 1994, but upward after 1995. The general trends in age-standardized death rates were roughly downward, although the death rates plateaued after 1995. The recent annual increased ratio of deaths from NMSC was 3.8% (95% confidence interval: 2.7 ∼ 4.9%). The number and proportion of deaths from NMSC among the elderly were increasing in Japan. For females, more than 50% of the deaths occurred recently at or after 85 years of age, whereas, for males, this proportion was at or after 75 years of age, nearly reaching at or after 80 years of age.
Molecular Breeding of Advanced Microorganisms for Biofuel Production
Authors: Sakuragi Hiroshi , Kuroda Kouichi , Ueda Mitsuyoshi
Published: January 2011

Large amounts of fossil fuels are consumed every day in spite of increasing environmental problems. To preserve the environment and construct a sustainable society, the use of biofuels derived from different kinds of biomass is being practiced worldwide. Although bioethanol has been largely produced, it commonly requires food crops such as corn and sugar cane as substrates. To develop a sustainable energy supply, cellulosic biomass should be used for bioethanol production instead of grain biomass. For this purpose, cell surface engineering technology is a very promising method. In biobutanol and biodiesel production, engineered host fermentation has attracted much attention; however, this method has many limitations such as low productivity and low solvent tolerance of microorganisms. Despite these problems, biofuels such as bioethanol, biobutanol, and biodiesel are potential energy sources that can help establish a sustainable society.
Speech Perception with Cochlear Implants as Measured Using a Roving-Level Adaptive Test Method
Authors: Haumann Sabine , Lenarz Thomas , Büchner Andreas
Published: January 2011

Aims: This paper uses a new method of speech testing where the hearing aid or cochlear implant (CI) users are tested in a more realistic listening situation. Methods: Groups of 11 subjects matched for performance with 5 different CI systems, for a total of 55 subjects, were tested with an adaptive test regime where the presentation level of the speech signal roved by ±10 or ±15 dB. Results: Speech reception thresholds varied widely between –4.8 and 17.3 dB with the ±15 dB roving condition being more difficult than the ±10 dB roving condition. We also found significant differences in speech reception threshold between groups using different devices. Conclusion: The test method used in our study, which attempts to test CI users in a more realistic listening situation, is sensitive to the effects of various subject-specific and technical parameters on everyday speech perception with CIs.
Volume Control in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients Guided by Bioimpedance Spectroscopy Assessment
Authors: Luo Ya-Jun , Lu Xin-Hong , Woods Feidhlim , Wang Tao
Published: January 2011

Background: Volume overload is a common problem in peritoneal dialysis patients and may contribute to the high cardiac mortality in this patient population. Controlling volume status is difficult due to the lack of appropriate and accurate assessment of dry weight. This randomized, controlled study was conducted to test if the recent use of overhydration value (OH) provided by bioimpedance spectroscopy and patients’ education would help to control overhydration. Methods: 160 continuous ambulatory peritoneal patients were included in this study. All the patients were randomly allocated to 2 groups: in Group 1 the patients and their primary nurses were informed of the OH values provided by bioimpedance spectroscopy whereas in Group 2 the values were not revealed and patients’ volume was measured by the standard methods. Fluid status was evaluated by means of repeated bioimpedance analysis and clinical assessment. Urine volume, blood pressure and use of antihypertensive medications were recorded. Results: There were no differences in gender, age, diabetes, height, weight and clinical hydration status between the 2 groups at the baseline. In Group 1, OH (p < 0.05), extracellular volume and the extracellular volume to intracellular volume ratio decreased steadily during the 3-month follow-up. On the contrary, all 3 parameters increased significantly in Group 2. SBP decreased significantly in Group 1 but increased significantly in Group 2. Conclusion: Our study shows that the use of OH as determined by bioimpedance spectroscopy may facilitate volume control in peritoneal dialysis patients.
Inhibitory Effect of Canstatin in Alkali Burn-Induced Corneal Neovascularization
Authors: Wang Ye , Yin Hongmei , Chen Peng , Xie Lixin , Wang Yiqiang
Published: January 2011

Objective: To examine the effect of recombinant canstatin protein on the corneal neovascularization (CorNV) in an alkaline burn-induced CorNV model. Methods: This study involved 50 C57BL/6 mice. CorNV was induced by an alkaline burn of the corneas with 1 N NaOH under general anesthesia. Beginning 24 h after CorNV induction, recombinant canstatin protein was administered intraperitoneally at 5 or 10 mg/kg body weight once a day for up to 14 days. CorNV was evaluated by slit-lamp microscopy. Growth factors and cytokines relating to neovascularization and inflammation in the corneas were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blotting, immunohistochemistry or ELISA. Results: Recombinant canstatin protein significantly inhibited CorNV. Compared to the untreated or PBS-treated CorNV group, expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) markedly decreased in the canstatin-treated group as detected by various methods. Western blotting and RT-PCR showed that the canstatin treatment inhibited the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor and VEGF. Day 7 revealed the greatest changes: ELISA assay showed that TNF-α also significantly decreased in canstatin-treated corneas. Conclusions: Recombinant canstatin protein suppressed experimental CorNV, suggesting that canstatin may serve as a useful angiogenic inhibitor for the treatment of neovascularization-related corneal diseases.
Effects of Chronic Antagonism of Endocannabinoid-1 Receptors on Glucose Tolerance and Insulin Action in Skeletal Muscles of Lean and Obese Zucker Rats
Authors: Lindborg Katherine A. , Jacob Stephan , Henriksen Erik J.
Published: January 2011

Background/Aims: Antagonism of the endocannabinoid receptor-1 (CB1R) directly improves whole-body metabolic parameters of insulin resistance. The present investigation determined the effects of chronic CB1R antagonism on whole-body and skeletal-muscle insulin action in insulin-sensitive lean and insulin-resistant obese Zucker rats. Methods: Animals were either fed ad libitum or in pairs, or treated with SR141716 (10 mg/kg i.p. for 14 days). Results: Food intake was significantly reduced (p < 0.05) after initial SR141716 treatment and remained decreased in both lean and obese animals until day 13. Fasting plasma glucose decreased (24%) and insulin increased (43%) in lean SR141716-treated (24%) rats compared to lean ad libitum-fed controls, but not in the corresponding obese groups. Fasting plasma free fatty acids were reduced by CB1R antagonism in lean (21%) and obese (42%) animals. Whole-body insulin sensitivity was increased (36%) in obese SR141716-treated rats compared to obese ad libitum-fed controls, which was associated with reduced insulin secretion during an oral glucose tolerance test. Insulin-stimulated glucose transport activity in the soleus was greatest in the respective SR141716-treated lean and obese groups compared to the corresponding ad libitum- and pair-fed controls. Chronic SR141716 treatment did not induce alterations in signaling factors associated with the regulation of glucose transport [protein kinase B (Akt), glycogen synthase kinase-3β, 5′-AMP-dependent protein kinase, or p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase] in the soleus. Conclusions: These results indicate that, while the chronic treatment with CB1R antagonism markedly diminished food intake in lean and obese Zucker rats, there are also significant metabolic improvements in whole-body and skeletal-muscle insulin action mediated by CB1R antagonism through mechanisms independent of reduced caloric intake.
If I Knew Then What I Know Now: Using the Leadership Competencies Developed by the American Association of Community Colleges to Prepare Community College Presidents
Authors: McNair Delores E. , Duree Christopher A. , Ebbers Larry
Published: January 2011

Although much has been written about preparing community college leaders, little is known about how presidents believe they might have better prepared for the role. Using presidential narratives from a national study, this article describes how presidents perceive gaps in prior preparation and offers recommendations to support the professional development of future leaders.
Approaches to health provision in the age of super-diversity: Accessing the NHS in Britain’s most diverse city
Authors: Phillimore Jenny
Published: January 2011

Commentators have argued that we have entered a new era of migration described by Vertovec as a ‘transformative diversification of diversity’. Multiple variables of difference in the ethnicity, immigration status, rights and entitlements, age and gender profiles and patterns of distribution, of new migrants mean that the UK, and many other EU countries, are now home to the most diverse population ever experienced. The onset of super-diversity challenges traditional multicultural models of welfare provision originally based upon an understanding of migrants as large and geographically contained clusters of predominantly postcolonial migrants. These changes are occurring at a time when migration has become highly politicized, multiculturalism is being questioned, a shift is under way towards assimilation and welfare provision has become re-racialized. This paper argues that models of welfare provision need to be rethought to take into account the new reality of super-diversity in a way that is affordable, politically acceptable and meets the needs of all. Using data from research undertaken from studies of health service provision in the West Midlands the paper explores the challenges of meeting the needs of new migrants under existing provision, the costs of failing to adapt to super-diversity and the reasons why provision has failed to adapt. The paper concludes by arguing the need for different approaches to provision, and suggesting some new ways forward.
Dilemmas of institutionalization in the penal voluntary sector
Authors: Corcoran Mary
Published: January 2011

The award in 2009 of contracts to operate private prisons to consortia which included charities has reignited debates in the UK about the costs of state patronage among the voluntary sector. This article argues that the controversy has highlighted current dilemmas of institutionalization arising from the interpenetration of civil and penal spheres, as public policy nurtures an emergent ‘penal voluntary sector’. Moreover, the article identifies the key drivers of institutionalization: (i) the mainstreaming of the voluntary sector as a plank of penal reform; (ii) the growth of penal service markets; (iii) the discursive construction of a unitary ‘sector’ of market-oriented service providers amenable to regulatory and audit disciplines; (iv) the discursive sidelining of critical analysis of the aforementioned trends. These developments, although contested, underpin a dominant ‘realism’ which combines penal common sense with adaptive pragmatism within the sector in a turbulent economic and political climate.
‘Social inclusion’ through sports-based interventions?
Authors: Kelly Laura
Published: January 2011

There is international enthusiasm for the idea that sport can contribute to ‘social inclusion’ strategies. Sport now features in various targeted youth initiatives, including ‘Positive Futures’: a ‘sport and activity based social inclusion programme’ currently operating in England and Wales. The processes through which these ‘sports-based interventions’ might promote ‘social inclusion’ require, however, further investigation. Drawing on interviews with operational staff, managers, partners and participants, the article critically analyses the concept of ‘sports-based social inclusion’ with reference to four main themes: ‘sport for all’, ‘social cohesion’, ‘a pathway to work’ and ‘giving voice’. It argues that, while programmes achieve varying degrees of ‘success’ in relation to these themes, their impact on exclusionary processes is inevitably limited. Moreover, sports-based interventions risk legitimating a reductive analysis of these complex processes, highlighting individual deficits and de-emphasizing structural inequalities.
Deafblindness and mental health
Authors: Bodsworth Sarah M. , Clare Isabel C.H. , Simblett Sara K. ,   Deafblind UK
Published: January 2011

Using materials adapted for each member, a self-report survey to examine psychological distress and unmet need was sent to the membership of a third sector organization, Deafblind UK. High rates of psychological distress were reported: 61 percent ( n = 439) of the respondents obtained a score of two or more (from a maximum of 12) on the GHQ-12 (Goldberg and Williams, 1988), while 45.8 percent obtained a more stringent score of four or more. The findings also suggested high levels of unmet need: more than one in four respondents (26.9%, n = 504) reported that they received no formal support. Surprisingly, given the important role of primary health care practitioners, both in providing treatment and in accessing other services, only a third (32.1%, n = 504) of respondents reported receiving regular support from a General Practitioner or community nurse. The implications for the development of service provision and practice, particularly within the health service, are discussed.
Prior visual experience, and perception and memory of shape in people with total blindness
Authors: Toroj Malgorzata , Szubielska Magdalena
Published: January 2011

The aim of this study was to explore the role of prior visual experience for tactile differentiation of object shapes. The study investigated whether people who lost their vision later in life were able to identify and recognize object shapes more accurately and faster than those who were blind from their birth. Four experiments were conducted. The first two were concerned with tactile shape differentiation, the second two with shape recognition. The hypotheses were only partially confirmed. The ‘late’ blind participants distinguished shapes more accurately than the congenitally blind (particularly in ‘simple’ perception tasks). This finding may suggest that people who have prior visual experience use an allocentric strategy when visualizing object shapes in their imagery. The ‘late’ blind participants performed the tasks more slowly than those who were congenitally blind. This may be explained by the complexity of the task, the time needed to create an allocentric representation, and discrepancy in the tactile experiences between the congenitally and late blind groups. A number of implications for further research are outlined.
Farewell to the wizards of Oz
Authors: Knightley Phillip
Published: January 2011

Many Australian journalists found success in Fleet Street from the Second World War onwards. One of the most celebrated of them, the award-winning former Sunday Times reporter, Phillip Knightley, mulls over the reasons why he and his countrymen did so well. And he takes the opportunity to pay tribute to his late friend, Murray Sayle, "a loner who became the hero of his own stories".
Entrepreneurs because they are Immigrants or Immigrants because they are Entrepreneurs?
Authors: Ensign Prescott C. , Robinson Nicholas P.
Published: January 2011

Conventional wisdom suggests that immigrants are forced into selfemployment. Although there is veracity in this assertion, it is equally probable that there is a certain level of entrepreneurial drive and spirit exhibited when an individual departs from his or her homeland. This article provides a much-needed and critical second look at the realm of ethnic entrepreneurship and in particular, the two-way relationship between the immigrant entrepreneur and the established business community. Isomorphism is seen to ebb and flow among newcomers and existing institutions. Mimetic behaviour as well as the introduction of innovations is seen to occur on both sides of a bilateral exchange.
The Bridge to Retirement
Authors: Kerr Gerry , Armstrong-Stassen Marjorie
Published: January 2011

Older workers’ choice of bridging employment (self-employment and wage-and-salary employment) was surveyed. Health status was found to be the only shared factor positively influencing both work commitment and the intention to work. Other than the aforementioned, those choosing entrepreneurship or wage-and-salary employment exhibited different demographics and answered dissimilar psycho-social needs. In terms of demographics, self-employed older workers included more unmarried, female respondents, whereas significantly more married males occupied wage-and-salary positions. In terms of psycho-social factors, the commitment and intention to work in the self-employed were significantly associated with responding to needs for personal fulfilment and independence. In contrast, those choosing wage-and-salary employment were significantly responding to needs for generativity, continued contribution, work connection and new experiences.
Network Strategy and Access to Business Finance
Authors: Sengupta Anirban
Published: January 2011

This article explores the significance of the nature of networks developed by entrepreneurs in accessing business finance. On the basis of qualitative data generated through case studies of Indian entrepreneurs in Information and Communication Technology industry, this article reports on the experience of entrepreneurs in accessing different types of business finance such as family funding, angel investment, venture capital and bank loan. Findings suggest that network plays an important role in facilitating access to business finance by building development of trust between entrepreneurs and investors. However, network acts as a successful facilitator only if other requirements for making a financial investment are favourable.
A reduction in ATP demand and mitochondrial activity with neural differentiation of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Birket Matthew J. , Orr Adam L. , Gerencser Akos A. , Madden David T. , Vitelli Cathy , Swistowski Andrzej , Brand Martin D. , Zeng Xianmin
Published: January 2011

Here, we have investigated mitochondrial biology and energy metabolism in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and hESC-derived neural stem cells (NSCs). Although stem cells collectively in vivo might be expected to rely primarily on anaerobic glycolysis for ATP supply, to minimise production of reactive oxygen species, we show that in vitro this is not so: hESCs generate an estimated 77% of their ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. Upon differentiation of hESCs into NSCs, oxidative phosphorylation declines both in absolute rate and in importance relative to glycolysis. A bias towards ATP supply from oxidative phosphorylation in hESCs is consistent with the expression levels of the mitochondrial gene regulators peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator (PGC)-1α, PGC-1β and receptor-interacting protein 140 (RIP140) in hESCs when compared with a panel of differentiated cell types. Analysis of the ATP demand showed that the slower ATP turnover in NSCs was associated with a slower rate of most energy-demanding processes but occurred without a reduction in the cellular growth rate. This mismatch is probably explained by a higher rate of macromolecule secretion in hESCs, on the basis of evidence from electron microscopy and an analysis of conditioned media. Taken together, our developmental model provides an understanding of the metabolic transition from hESCs to more quiescent somatic cell types, and supports important roles for mitochondria and secretion in hESC biology.
An association between NUAK2 and MRIP reveals a novel mechanism for regulation of actin stress fibers
Authors: Vallenius Tea , Vaahtomeri Kari , Kovac Bianca , Osiceanu Ana-Maria , Viljanen Martta , Mäkelä Tomi P.
Published: January 2011

Actin stress fiber assembly and contractility in nonmuscle motile cells requires phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain (MLC). Dephosphorylation and disassembly are mediated by MLC phosphatase, which is targeted to actin fibers by the association of its regulatory subunit MYPT1 with myosin phosphatase Rho-interacting protein (MRIP). In the present study, we identify the kinase NUAK2 as a second protein targeted by MRIP to actin fibers. Association of NUAK2 with MRIP increases MLC phosphorylation and promotes formation of stress fibers. This activity does not require the kinase activity of NUAK2 but is dependent on both MRIP and MYPT1, indicating that the NUAK2–MRIP association inhibits fiber disassembly and MYPT1-mediated MLC dephosphorylation. NUAK2 levels are strongly induced by stimuli increasing actomyosin fiber formation, and NUAK2 is required for fiber maintenance in exponentially growing cells, implicating NUAK2 in a positive-feedback loop regulating actin stress fibers independently of the MLC kinase Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK). The identified MRIP–NUAK2 association reveals a novel mechanism for the maintenance of actin stress fibers through counteracting MYPT1 and, together with recent results, implicates the NUAK proteins as important regulators of the MLC phosphatase acting in both a kinase-dependent and kinase-independent manner.
Selective transfer of exosomes from oligodendrocytes to microglia by macropinocytosis
Authors: Fitzner Dirk , Schnaars Mareike , van Rossum Denise , Krishnamoorthy Gurumoorthy , Dibaj Payam , Bakhti Mostafa , Regen Tommy , Hanisch Uwe-Karsten , Simons Mikael
Published: January 2011

The transfer of antigens from oligodendrocytes to immune cells has been implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Here, we show that oligodendrocytes secrete small membrane vesicles called exosomes, which are specifically and efficiently taken up by microglia both in vitro and in vivo. Internalisation of exosomes occurs by a macropinocytotic mechanism without inducing a concomitant inflammatory response. After stimulation of microglia with interferon-γ, we observe an upregulation of MHC class II in a subpopulation of microglia. However, exosomes are preferentially internalised in microglia that do not seem to have antigen-presenting capacity. We propose that the constitutive macropinocytotic clearance of exosomes by a subset of microglia represents an important mechanism through which microglia participate in the degradation of oligodendroglial membrane in an immunologically ‘silent’ manner. By designating the capacity for macropinocytosis and antigen presentation to distinct cells, degradation and immune function might be assigned to different subtypes of microglia.
Correlation between Steric Substituent Constants and Thermal Cycloreversion Reactivity of Diarylethene Closed-Ring Isomers
Authors: Kitagawa Daichi , Sasaki Kyohei , Kobatake Seiya
Published: January 2011

Two kinds of diarylperfluorocyclopentenes having 5-phenyl-2-propyl-3-thienyl and 2-isobutyl-5-phenyl-3-thienyl group as the aryl groups were newly synthesized, and the thermal stability of their closed-ring isomers was investigated. The bulkiness of the substituent (R) at the reacting positions in photochromic diarylethenes plays an important role in the thermal cycloreversion reactivity of the photogenerated closed-ring isomers. The steric substituent constant was introduced to investigate the relationship between the steric hindrance of the substituent R and the thermal cycloreversion reactivity. We employed three steric substituent constants, Es(R), Esc(R), and v(R) values. We found that there is a good correlation between the Esc(R) value and the thermal cycloreversion reactivity. Furthermore, the Es(CH2R) value has also a good correlation with the thermal cycloreversion reactivity, while Es(R) has no correlation. These results indicate that the steric hindrance has an effect on the thermal cycloreversion and there is no hyperconjugation of the α-hydrogen on the 2-substituent on the thiophene ring. Moreover, the activation energy was also found to be related to the steric substituent constant. These findings would give a new useful strategy to design novel diarylethenes having desired thermal stability.
Synthesis of Monodisperse Hollow Polyaniline Spheres with Nonsulfonated Polystyrene Latex Template
Authors: Sun Cheng , Sheng Dongmei
Published: January 2011

Monodisperse hollow polyaniline nanospheres with controlled surface smoothness were synthesized by in situ polymerization of aniline monomers adsorbed on a carboxyl-functionalized polystyrene surface through electrostatic interactions.
A Facile Synthesis of NiO Nanosheet with High-energy (111) Surface
Authors: Zhu Kake , Hua Weiming , Wang Xingyi
Published: January 2011

NiO nanosheet with high-energy (111) polar surface was prepared in high yield under mild conditions using nickel acetate tetrahydrate as starting material via thermal decomposition of intermediate Ni(OH)(OCH3). The NiO(111) nanosheet is far more active than conventional NiO for ethylbenzene dehydrogenation.
Change in Crystal Structure of LiNi0.8Co0.19Cu0.01O2 Cathode during Charge of Coin Cell Observed by Ex Situ Time-of-flight Neutron Diffraction
Authors: Idemoto Yasushi , Tsukada Yuta , Kitamura Naoto , Hoshikawa Akinori , Ishigaki Toru
Published: January 2011

In the present study, we performed a new ex situ analysis of the change in the crystal structure of a cathode containing the composite material in a coin cell during the charge–discharge cycle. Time-of-flight neutron powder diffraction with Rietveld refinement was used to analyze the crystal structure of LiNi0.8Co0.19Cu0.01O2 produced by solid-phase synthesis, both for the powder and a cathode before and after charging. The powder and the cathode had similar crystal structure parameters before charging. The results obtained demonstrate that crystal structure analysis by neutron diffraction is possible for a cathode containing 8.5 mg of active material. The results also showed that it is possible to quantitatively determine the Li composition, Li/Ni cation mixing amount, (Ni,Co,Cu)–O6 octahedral distortion, and small quantities of the second phase component in the cathode before and after charging.
Subnanoscale Size Effect of Dendrimer-encapsulated Pd Clusters on Catalytic Hydrogenation of Olefin
Authors: Maeno Zen , Kibata Takayuki , Mitsudome Takato , Mizugaki Tomoo , Jitsukawa Koichiro , Kaneda Kiyotomi
Published: January 2011

Dendrimer-encapsulated subnano Pd clusters catalyze selective hydrogenation of 1,3-cyclooctadiene to cyclooctene. The catalytic activity increases with the size of the subnano Pd clusters. The activity of the threefold hollow sites of the subnano Pd clusters plays an important role in the hydrogenation reaction.
Iranian Clinical Nurses' Coping Strategies for Job Stress
Authors: Jannati Yadollah , Mohammadi Rakhshandeh , Seyedfatemi Naeimeh
Published: January 2011

Iranian Clinical Nurses' Coping Strategies for Job Stress: Yadollah Jannati, et al. Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran—

Objectives

Since the existence of work‐related stressors is inevitable in nurses' workplace, nurses usually use a variety of coping strategies which can be called cognitive, affective, and behavioral techniques. In this study, we aimed to explore the coping strategies employed by the Iranian clinical nurses in depth.

Methods

This work was a qualitative study using Straus and Corbin's grounded theory approach focusing on the process of coping with job stress used by Iranian clinical nurses.

Results

The results of the present qualitative study indicate that the core category was “on the route to coping” which contained six categories comprising work management, self‐control, emotional, spiritual, cognitive, and interactional strategies.

Conclusions

We conclude that in nursing it is inevitable that different kinds of strategies are used to cope with the many stressors. The conceptual model emerging from the data indicate that nurses are engaged in a dynamic process of struggling to cope with job stressors. In fact, they are “on the route to coping” with the job stressors. Considering the high level of stress in the nursing profession, the indings of this study have implications for both hospital managers and Iranian clinical nurses.
The influence of the solar flux at 2.8 GHz on outbreaks of gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar L.) (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) in Serbia
Authors: Milenkovic M. , Ducic V. , Milovanovic B.
Published: January 2011

The connection between the solar flux at 2.8 GHz (based on mean monthly
values) and the outbreaks of gypsy moths (Lymantria dispar L.) in Serbia was
investigated. The researches included six outbreaks from 1952 to 2007. The
average values of the solar flux ranged between 83.8 and 101.8 sfu during the
outbreaks, whereas they were between 147.9 and 188.3 sfu for the periods
without outbreaks. The results of the research showed that the increase in
the number of gypsy moths appears when the values of the solar flux at 2.8
GHz range from 70 to 120 sfu.
The cytotoxic activity of two D-galactose-binding lectins purified from marine invertebrates
Authors: Kawsar Sarkar , Aftabuddin Sheikh , Yasumitsu Hidetaro , Ozeki Yasuhiro
Published: January 2011

The present investigation was undertaken in order to evaluate the cytotoxic
effect of two D-galactose-binding lectins using the brine shrimp lethality
bioassay technique. Both lectins were purified from the marine invertebrates,
sea hare Aplysia kurodai eggs and polychaete Perineries nuntia by
conventional affinity chromatography methods. The molecular mass of Aplysia
kurodai egg lectin (AKL) was determined to be 32 kDa and 56 kDa by sodium
dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis under reducing and
non-reducing conditions, respectively. On the other hand, polychaete
Perineries nuntia lectin (PnL) was determined to be 32 kDa in both reducing
and non-reducing conditions. AKL and PnL showed strong agglutination activity
against trypsinized and glutaraldehyde-fixed human and rabbit erythrocytes.
AKL significantly affects the mortality rate of brine shrimp. Experimental
results revealed that AKL was found to be more toxic (63.33% mortality) than
PnL (33.33% mortality) and the mortality rate of brine shrimp nauplii was
increased with the increase in concentration of lectins. These cytotoxic
results indicate that future findings of lectin applications obtained from
marine invertebrates may be of importance to clinical microbiology, and that
they could have application as potent chemotherapeutic agents.
Modulation of nickel-induced bursting with 4-aminopyridine in leech retzius nerve cells
Authors: Pathak Dhruba , Lopicic S. , Bratic-Stanojevic Marija , Pavlovic D. , Andjus P.R. , Nedeljkov V.
Published: January 2011

Paroxysmal depolarization shift has been identified as a characteristic
feature of the cellular basis of epilepsy. On Na+-dependent bursting, 1
mmol/l 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) produced a two-phase effect - a significant
depolarization accompanied by an increase in the frequency of bursting,
followed by repolarization along with a diminished frequency of bursting.
Neither 1 ?mol/l apamin nor 150 nmol/l charybdotoxin (ChTX) elicited any
significant effect on either bursting or standard conditions. Our results
suggest that 4-AP affects the bursting indirectly by altering the
excitability of the cell. The lack of effects of apamin and ChTX is probably
due to channel insensitivity to these blockers in leech.
Geographical and biological analysis of the water quality of Bovan Lake, Serbia
Authors: Zlatkovic S. , Sabic D. , Milincic M. , Knezevic-Vukcevic Jelena , Stankovic S.
Published: January 2011

In this work we performed a complex geographical analysis of the Bovan Lake
basin, Serbia, as well as an analysis of the physical, chemical and
biological parameters of water reservoir during a one-year period. The basic
sanitary characteristics and physical, chemical and biological parameters,
necessary for understanding locality conditions, were studied, and the
saprobity index, class of quality, index O/H, degree of saprobity, degree of
trophicity and category based on the phosphatase activity index (PAI), were
determined. Our results classify the ecosystem as polytrophic. The degree of
saprobity is oligosaprobic - beta mesosaprobic, with a catarobic degree in
winter, classifying the water as III - IV class of quality. Due to the
presence of organic residues, a domination of heterotrophic bacteria in
comparison to oligotrophic bacteria is evident. The ability of
autopurification is weak. The results indicate the need for continual
monitoring of the water quality and environmental protection of Bovan Lake.
Helminth fauna of Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout, 1769 from the Belgrade area, Serbia
Authors: Kataranovski D. , Kataranovski Milena , Deljanin Isidora
Published: January 2011

The aims of this study were to provide baseline knowledge about intestinal
parasites in Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) that inhabit the Belgrade area,
and to analyze the associations among helminths. Of 302 trapped rats, 52%
were females and 48% males, with 39% and approx. 37% of juvenile-subadult
individuals, per sex, respectively. The following parasites were detected
(with their respective prevalence): Cestoda - Hymenolepis diminuta (30.46%)
and Rodentolepis fraterna (12.58%); Nematoda - Heterakis spumosa (36.75%),
Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (16.22%), Capillaria sp. (5.96%), Trichuris
muris (5.96%), Syphacia muris (4.30%) and Strongylus sp. larvae (0.33%).
Flukes (Trematoda) were not recorded. Of all examined rats, 68.54% were found
to harbor at least one parasite species, with higher prevalence in male hosts
and in adult individuals. There were no age-related differences in the
prevalence of infection with individual helminth species. Multiple infections
occurred with up to four species per rat showing different combinations of
parasite infections. These are the first records of the gastrointestinal
helminth fauna of Norway rats in Serbia.
Classification of trees and tree species in Obrenovac “Mali park” by the elements of growth, vitality and ornamentalness
Authors: Stavretovic N. , Vuckovic M. , Stajic B.
Published: January 2011

The study was performed in Mali Park, in the town of Obrenovac. Our findings
are based on the data obtained after direct measurements of elements of growth
and the derived indicators of tree vitality and ornamentalness. Cluster
analysis was applied to determine the relatively homogeneous groups of tree
species. The results show that the group with the best functional
characteristics includes Platanus acerifolia, Tilia grandifolia and Fraxinus
ornus, and the group of species with inferior characteristics includes Betula
verrucosa, Juglans regia, Celtis australis, Acer platanoides, Cedrus
atlantica and Acer negundo.
The micromorphological, histochemical and confocal analysis of satureja subspicata Bartl. ex vis. glandular trichomes
Authors: Marin Marija , Jasnic N. , Lakusic D. , Duletic-Lausevic Sonja , Ascensao Lia
Published: January 2011

Micromorphology, histochemical and confocal analyses of the trichomes of
Satureja subspicata (Bartl. ex Vis.) were carried out using light
microscopy, confocal laser scanning electron microscopy (CLSM), and scanning
electron microscopy. Non-glandular unbranched and two types of glandular
trichomes - peltate and capitate - are described. The results of
histochemical tests showed a positive reaction to phenolics, tannins,
lipids, acid lipids, pectins and polysaccharides in both types of glandular
trichomes. A strong red autofluorescence of the lipophilic and hydrophilic
secreted material in glandular trichomes was observed with CLSM.
A riverside tale: Assessment of altered habitat effects on macrophyte assemblage on the river Tamis, Serbia
Authors: Radulovic Snezana , Laketic Dusanka , Vukov Dragana
Published: January 2011

The aim of this study was to recognize the relationships between the physical
characteristics of river reaches and the supported macrophyte assemblage,
using the newly developed RHS (River Habitat Survey) method and dataset, and
to test the following specific hypotheses: (i) whether there are correlations
between the abundance of macrophyte groups and the physical environment
variables, and (ii) whether these relationships vary between macrophyte
groups with different morphology types. The Tamis river possesses a highly
diverse habitat potential, while high values of HMS capture obviously to
significantly modified habitat classes, significantly distinguishing the R1
and L1 spot-check as a hot spot along the area studied.
Epipactis purpurata Sm. (Orchidaceae): A new species in the flora of Serbia
Authors: Djordjevic V. , Tomovic Gordana , Lakusic D.
Published: January 2011

Epipactis purpurata Sm. (Orchidaceae) is recorded as a new species in the
flora of Serbia. It was found on Mt. Maljen (Western Serbia) at 740 m
altitude, and it inhabits mixed beech-fir forest. Data about the morphology,
distribution, habitat, ecology, flowering period, pollination and population
size of the newly-recorded species are given. The distribution map of this
species in Serbia is created on a 10 x 10 km UTM grid system. In the
evaluation of the species according to IUCN categories and criteria applied
in Serbia, E. purpurata is classified as Critically Endangered.
Aquatic Coleoptera fauna of Ramsar site Sultan Sazliği (Kayseri, Turkey) and its surroundings: New distribution records of four species from the southern limit of its range
Authors: İncekara U. , Polat A. , Darilmaz M , Mart A. , Taşar Erhan
Published: January 2011

Aquatic Coleoptera fauna of the Ramsar site Sultan Sazl??? (Kayseri, Turkey)
was investigated between May and October 2009. A total of 87 species were
determined. Their distributions in Turkey are presented. Worldwide
distributions of four newly-recorded species (Agabus lineatus Gebler, 1848,
Helophorus pumilio Erichson, 1837, Helophorus redtenbacheri Kuwert, 1885 and
Cercyon tristis (Illiger, 1801)) from Turkey are also given. It was
established that Turkey is the southernmost limit of distribution of all the
newly recorded species from Turkey.
First record of the rare European endemic Sphiximorpha binominata (Verrall) (Diptera: Syrphidae) for the Iberian peninsula
Authors: Ricarte A. , Marcos-Garcia Angeles
Published: January 2011

In this short note we provide the first record of the hoverfly Sphiximorpha
binominata, as well as one of the few known records of Sphiximorpha
subsessilis from the Iberian Peninsula. They are two of the 11 Iberian
species of hoverfly thought to be threatened with extinction at the European
level. We propose S. binominata as a candidate to be included in the next
version of the Invertebrate Red Data Book of Spain.
Oligotrophus betheli felt (Diptera:Cecidomyiidae), a new species in the fauna of Europe
Authors: Simova-Tosic Duska , Graora Draga , Spasic Radoslava , Smiljanic Dragica
Published: January 2011

Oligotrophus betheli or the juniper tip midge is a North American species and
its presence has been established only in Continental USA, on Juniperus spp.
(Gagne, 1989). In the period between 2007 and 2009 this species was observed
on Juniperus virginiana L. in many localities in Serbia, which represents the
first record of this species not only in Serbia, but also in Europe.
Periostin and lung diseases: Recent advances and molecular structure modeling
Authors: Tian Yu , Jiang Youfan , Jiang Depeng , Yang Yan
Published: January 2011

Periostin is overexpressed in many epithelial malignant cancers. Although
there were some reviews on the function of periostin related to a variety of
cancers, a specific review on lung cancers is not found so far. Therefore,
our brief review outlines the recent advances of periostin roles in the
development of lung cancers/diseases and analyzes the potential value of
periostin as a therapeutic target and diagnostic signal for lung cancer. We
first of all searched for previous literature on a representative set of
online databases, and outlined the works on periostin expression and lung
cancers. We modeled the 3D homologous structure of human periostin based on
computational prediction techniques. The resulting model passed the
examination of a protein quality check. The fifteen most conserved sites were
identified and forty-one active binding sites were detected, which can serve
as potential targets for lung cancer therapy.
Bacteriophage λ proliferation in Escherichia coli under the influence of microwave irradiation
Authors: Milojevic Natasa , Stanisavljev D. , Nikolic Biljana , Beljanski M. , Kolar-Anic Ljiljana , Knezevic-Vukcevic Jelena
Published: January 2011

The influence of microwaves on bacterial metabolism was investigated using
the proliferation of bacteriophage ? in Escherichia coli cells as a model
system. All experiments were performed under the same microwave absorption
rate and constant temperature. Microwave treatment had no effect on bacterial
or phage viability, or on phage adsorption. Microwaves significantly
influenced phage proliferation but the effects depended on the experimental
temperature. The kinetics of phage proliferation decreased with irradiation
at the optimal temperature and increased at the suboptimal temperature. This
result could be ascribed to the specific thermal effects of microwaves.
A recently discovered albino seedling mutant in maize
Authors: Vancetovic Jelena , Bozinovic Sofija , Ignjatovic-Micic Dragana , Markovic Ksenija , Andjelkovic Violeta
Published: January 2011

A lethal albino seedling mutant of maize that is resistant to imazethapyr was
found in the material from the Maize Research Institute, Zemun Polje, gene
bank, The mutation was characterized by a normal development of the first two
leaves, with white coloration appearing from the third to the fifth leaves,
at the base of the leaves spreading towards their end, resulting in the death
of the whole plant. While the upper leaves were dying, the first two were
still green for eight to ten days. It seemed that the mutation was
conditioned by one recessive allele.
GC-MS profiling of bioactive extracts from Haberlea rhodopensis: An endemic resurrection plant
Authors: Berkov Strahil , Nikolova Milena , Hristozova Nevena , Momekov Georgi , Ionkova Iliana , Djilianov Dimitar
Published: January 2011

GC-MS metabolic profiling of the apolar and polar fractions from methanolic
extracts of Haberlea rhodopensis revealed more than one hundred compounds
(amino acids, fatty acids, phenolic acids, sterols, glycerides, saccharides,
etc.). Bioactivity assays showed that the polar fractions possessed strong
free radical scavenging activity (IC50 - 19.95 ?14.11 ?g ml-1 for fresh
leaves and 50.04 ?23.16 ?g ml-1 for desiccated leaves), while both the polar
and apolar fractions failed to provoke any significant cytotoxic effects
against the tested cell lines. Five compounds possessing antiradical activity
were identified - syringic, vanillic, caffeic, dihydrocaffeic and p-coumaric
acids.
Synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of some lanthanide(III) nitrate complexes of 3-[3-carboxyethyl-4,5- dimethylthiophene-2-yl)azo]pent-2,4-dione
Authors: Athira Janardhanan , Sindhu Yesodharan , Sujamol Susamma , Mohanan Kochukittan
Published: January 2011

3-[3-Carboxyethyl-4,5-dimethylthiophene-2-yl)azo]pent-2,4-dione was
synthesized by coupling diazotized 2-amino-3-carboxyethyl-
4,5-dimethylthiophene with acetylacetone. Based on various spectral studies
and elemental analysis, an intramolecularly hydrogen bonded azoenol
structural form was assigned for the ligand. This ligand is versatile in
forming a series of lanthanide(III) complexes viz, lanthanum(III),
cerium(III), praseodymium(III), neodymium(III), samarium(III) and
gadolinium(III), which were characterized through various spectral studies,
elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility measurements, molar conductance
and thermal analysis. The spectral data revealed that the ligand acted as a
neutral tridentate, coordinating to the metal ion through one of the azo
nitrogen atoms, the ester carbonyl and the enolic oxygen of the acetylacetone
moiety, without deprotonation. Molar conductance values adequately supported
their non-electrolytic nature. The ligand and lanthanum(III) complexes were
subjected to X-ray diffraction studies. In addition, the lanthanum(III)
complex underwent a facile transesterification reaction on refluxing with
methanol for a long period. The thermal behavior of the lanthanum(III)
complex was also examined.