bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A DRUG AND ALCOHOL SERVICE BASED IN A GENERAL HOSPITAL
Authors: BURNS F. HARDING
Published: July 2007

The development since 1976 of a treatment service for drugs and alcohol related problems at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) is described. The service, which was an initiative of the Division of Medicine is offered as a consultation, assessment and treatment service for in‐ and outpatients. The Unit acknowledges that a specific clinical intervention may not be important4, but that assessment and intervention of any sort may have a therapeutic importance. The organisation of Drug and Alcohol Services (DAS) in 1983 is headed by a General Physician with administrative responsibility to the Director of Medical Services and professional responsibility to the Division of Medicine, and the Department of Neurology. 376 new patient consultations were seen in 1983. A non medical detoxification unit on the hospital campus serviced 1700 admissions. There is a Liaison Nurse to assist with nursing management problems. The Unit has an education role in the Hospital for medical and nursing staff. Two project officers are completing a project on teaching guidelines and resource material for nurse education in N.S.W. A Regional Brain Damage Unit is investigating the prevalence of neurological disease due to alcohol and advising on special rehabilitiation needs of these patients. The overall success rate of the first 200 patients followed for at least six months in 1981 was 18%. There has been a satisfactory outcome in 15% of patients referred to community resources after alcohol detoxification. In 1983 5% of patients referred to the Service were using narcotics, 15% were using benzodiazepines or other sedatives. A methadone maintenance programme for heroin addicted mothers is run at King George V Hospital (RPAH) in conjunction with the Bourke Street Drug Advisory Service; referrals for opiate and other sedative dependence may be made to other special units in the region. The DAS Unit has become an integral part of the medical services offered at RPAH.
THE USE OF METHADONE IN QUEENSLAND
Authors: BOLTON M.
Published: July 2007

Methadone is seen as a useful tool in the management of “street” narcotic drug dependence. The use of methadone constitutes part of a treatment plan in appropriate persons. “Methadone Programs” are one of the range of options which should be available for the treatment of narcotic drug dependence. Residential “therapeutic community” style programs and out‐patient drug free programs should also be available.

Whenever instituted the prescription of methadone should be accompanied by individualised attention being paid to the social, psychological and physical needs of the patient.

This paper will outline the purpose and goals of the Queensland Methadone Program, document present planning initiatives and examine some issues that may be regarded as contentious.
PRINCIPLES OF ADULT EDUCATION
Authors: FABB W.E.
Published: July 2007

In working with adult learners, the application of some well established principles will enhance the potential for learning. Adult learners work best in a non‐threatening atmosphere where they enjoy a good relationship with their teachers; they need opportunities to assess themselves against a standard, and having done so, prefer to select their own learning experiences — to be self directing. They prefer a problem oriented approach to learning, want to apply their newly‐acquired knowledge and skills immediately and need to know how they are progressing through constructive feedback. They want to help others to learn, and themselves learn much in the process of teaching others.

Alcohol and drug workers whose responsibility it is to educate other health workers, will find these principles are applicable in their field endeavour.
NEURO‐ELECTRIC THERAPY IN ALCOHOL DETOXIFICATION
Authors: CAREY‐SMITH K.A.
Published: July 2007

Acupuncture and transcutaneous electrical stimulation have been used for ten years to treat withdrawal and craving in heroin and other addictions.

The use of a portable stimulator to provide continuous neuro‐electric therapy (NET) during withdrawal in 10 hospitalised alcoholics (and one polydrug abuser) is described. Good results, with high patient acceptance, were obtained without recourse to pharmacological agents, and no major side affects were noted. Current theories on mode of action are discussed.

The technique provides a safe, well‐tolerated, non‐chemical method of preventing and treating withdrawal symptoms, and allows introduction of assessment and treatment programmes within hours of admission.
ALCOHOL‐RELATED BRAIN DAMAGE — SERIAL STUDIES AFTER ABSTINENCE AND RECOMMENCEMENT OF DRINKING
Authors: Cala L.A. , Burns P. , Davis R. , Jones B.
Published: July 2007

The present study is an extension of earlier work with a group of 65 light to moderate drinkers (Cala et al1,2). The aim was to investigate the effects of a return to social drinking after abstinence, and that of continued social drinking uninterrupted by a period of abstinence, on cerebral atrophy as seen on CAT scan, cognitive performance and biochemical factors.
THE POTENTIAL RESPONSE OF GENERALIST HEALTH AND WELFARE WORKERS TO DRINKING PROBLEMS: AN INITIAL STUDY IN AN AUSTRALIAN RURAL TOWN
Authors: BUSH ROBERT A. , EGAN TRISH , WILLIAMS ROBERT J. , REILLY DAVID K.
Published: July 2007

In Australian rural towns generalist health and welfare workers are the major resource for a response to alcohol related problems. However, in this study of a rural town's generalists, it was found that they lacked knowledge, training and support for their work with problem drinkers despite having some experience in the field. In applying some findings of the English Camberwell Project to this Australian rural town and a group of urban generalist workers it was found that experience in the field, training in alcohol studies and counselling, as well as supportive services, act as independent predicators of their therapeutic response. Some strategies for improving this response are suggested as well as some radical departures in local preventative strategies which are yet to be tested.
Experience with a Large‐scale Smoking Cessation Clinic
Authors: Bittoun R. , Clarke J. C.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: The experience of a large‐scale smoking cessation clinic which was set up in conjunction with a mass media campaign, is described. The therapies employed were selected as suitable for use with large numbers of clients, could be self‐applied and were suitable for short term programmes. Approximately one in four of those who attended at least one session reported they had ceased smoking. Hypnosis‐assisted treatment was the least successful treatment. Overall compliance with the programme was low. The implication of these findings for future programmes is discussed.
Problem Areas: Victims, Community and Doctors
Authors: Maddocks I.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: For most doctors and health workers in clinical practice, the problem of alcohol abuse is too hard. Its many subtle presentations elude ready recognition and defy set routines of management.

A major difficulty is that it cannot easily be classified or encompassed by a neat diagnostic box. It is much more than a medical problem, even though there is often a definite pathology with clinical signs and accepted treatment regimes; it is much more than a psychological problem, though it has important emotional antecdents and associations; it is certainly a social problem closely woven into the fabric of Australian society, but one seemingly inaccessible to established processes of education or legislation.

At a time when many doctors seek to make allies of their patients, enlisting their aid in life‐style changes for health improvements, alcohol abuse seems to mock the well‐intentioned exhortation to participatory self‐improvement. Instead, it seems to demand techniques of consistent confrontation and community recruitment which run in the face of the individual entrepreneurial style of private doctoring.

For the physician, there is neither money nor success to be gained in the management of a client who abuses alcohol. The response of private practice to the problem is therefore largely one of avoidance and this constitutes a major contribution to the conspiracy of silence.
Surviving as a Controlled Drinking Therapist
Authors: Ryder David
Published: July 2007

Abstract: In essence, conducting a controlled drinking programme is no different from conducting an abstinence programme, in that the therapeutic skills and structure of the treatment are the same. Only the drinking goal itself is different. The controversy regarding controlled drinking, however, has led to a greater degree of pressure being applied to those therapists who conduct controlled drinking programmes, particularly by colleagues. The factors required for the therapist to cope with this are detailed.

It is also argued that, as controlled drinking appears to be most efficacious with drinkers other than those who attend traditional alcohol problem clinics, therapists need to seek out such clientele in other venues.
Early Detection and Management of Alcohol‐Related Problems in Mexico
Authors: Campillo Carlos , Martinez Rosa Diaz , Romero Martha
Published: July 2007

Abstract: The Mexican health system and Mexican policies regarding alcohol consumption are described. The principal problems caused by alcohol consumption are outlined, as are the country's attempts at early detection and intervention.
Different Cultures, Different Needs?
Authors: Acuda S.W.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Alcohol drinking and alcohol‐related problems in East Africa, particularly Kenya, are considered and the implications for prevention discussed.
Biochemical Aspects of the Pathogenesis of the Wernicke‐Korsakoff Syndrome
Authors: Nixon Peter F.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: The Michaelis‐Menten constant of human erythrocyte transketolase for thiamin diphosphate (TDP) was found to be 2.3 ± 1.2 μM, 2.3 ± 1.3 μM and 2.0 ± 1.0 μM in respective samples from 54 healthy controls, 6 alcoholic controls and 53 patients suffering the Wernicke‐Korsakoff syndrome, when determined by simultaneous addition of TDP and substrates to apoenzyme. When apoenzyme and various TDP concentrations were preincubated 1 h before addition of substrates, the respective K TDP/m values were 54 ± 18 nM, 65 ± 18 nM and 67 ± 26 nM. Thus carefully standardized measurements of K TDP/m fail to detect a variant of transketolase associated with the Wernicke‐Korsakoff syndrome, suggesting that other documentation of variants is dependent upon a particular set of conditions which have yet to be identified and reproduced. Acetaldehyde at 50 mM for 15 min inactivated apotransketolase much more than holotransketolase but had no effect upon the K TDP/m. Thus acetaldehyde, generated by metabolism of ethanol, could exacerbate the metabolic consequences of thiamin deficiency and obscure the assessment of thiamin nutrition by measurement of the erythrocyte transketolase “TDP effect”.
Effects of Multiple Scattering and Wavelength-Dependent Attenuation on Strain Measurements by Neutron Scattering
Authors: Hsu T.C. , Marsiglio F. , Root J.H. , Holden T.M.
Published: July 2007

Spatial maps of lattice strain inside bulk structures can be obtained by neutron diffraction. In this paper, we describe a systematic investigation of multiple scattering and wavelength-dependent attenuation effects on such measurements deep inside steel plates. The experimental results suggest that wavelength-dependent attenuation can generate peak shifts that correspond to apparent tensile strains of order 1 part in 104 at depths of order 10 mm in ferritic steel. Moreover, near the wavelength corresponding to the (211) Bragg cut-off, even larger apparent compressive strains of the order 1 part in 103 were observed. The experimental results are consistent in sign with a theoretical calculation but there is a discrepancy in magnitude. Multiple scattering was found to have no observable influence on measurements of strain at depth.
Progress in Magnetization Density Reconstructions Using Maximum Entropy
Authors: Ressouche E. , Schweizer J.
Published: July 2007

Polarized neutron diffraction provides information on the Fourier components of magnetization density distributions in crystals. To obtain the densities themselves, one has to solve the inverse Fourier problem. This problem is complicated by the presence of noise and the incompleteness of the data. Several approaches exist and have been widely used, ranging from the most straightforward one, the Fourier synthesis, to the refinement of parametrized models. Recently, the application of the maximum-entropy principle caused a breakthrough in this field, allowing high quality maps to be reconstructed without any a priori knowledge of what the density should look like. This technique can be applied in different ways: all the approaches are discussed and illustrated by an example based on real polarized neutron diffraction data.
Open GENIE—A Generic Multi-Platform Program for the Analysis of Neutron Scattering Data
Authors: Moreton-Smith C.M. , Johnston S.D. , Akeroyd F.A.
Published: July 2007

Open-GENIE is the successor to the widely used and highly successful ‘GENIE-V2’ program which is used as the principal front-end neutron data analysis tool at the UK’s ISIS spallation neutron source. In this paper, the background and motivation for the ‘Open GENIE’ project are briefly reviewed as is progress to date. Some of the ideas and concepts making Open GENIE unique are demonstrated. Emphasis is given to how these ideas are expected to develop in the future and how they will impact the field of neutron scattering data analysis.
LiBaF3, A Scintillator for Thermal-Neutron Detection with Optimal n-γ Discrimination
Authors: Knitel M.J. , Dorenbos P. , de Haas J.T.M. , van Eijk C.W.E.
Published: July 2007

We report on the scintillation properties of a LiBaF3 crystal when irradiated with thermal neutrons or gamma rays. This scintillator exhibits cross luminescence and self-trapped-exciton luminescence. The former does not show up under thermal-neutron irradiation, whereas both give a response under gamma irradiation. This offers a unique opportunity for thermal-neutron - gamma discrimination. The effectiveness of the method is demonstrated.
Improvement of Neutron Guides at LLB
Authors: Kahn R. , Menelle A.
Published: July 2007

Industrial manufacture of surfaces coated with supermirror of enhanced critical angle and high reflectivity allows new developments in the use of neutron guide. We report some new results on Ni/Ti multilayer: influence of adding Carbon in the Ni layers and time evolution with irradiation of the reflecting properties. Also we present briefly the flux and wavelength distribution available at the end position of a multilayer coated bender and of a classical guide where only the curved section is made of supermirror-type elements.
Correction of Neutron Scattering Lengths for Electromagnetic Interactions
Authors: Sears V.F.
Published: July 2007

The scattering of thermal neutrons in non-magnetic materials is due almost entirely to the strong (i.e. nuclear) interaction between the neutrons and the nuclei, and the primary role of electromagnetic interactions is in magnetic materials, where the magnetic dipole interaction between the neutrons and the magnetic electrons gives a contribution to the scattering that is normally comparable in magnitude to that from the nuclear interaction. Nevertheless, even in a non-magnetic material, there exist other kinds of electromagnetic interactions between the neutrons and the atoms which give a small (typically 1%) contribution to the effective bound coherent scattering length. This contribution is, however, wave-vector dependent and is often one or two orders of magnitude larger than the current experimental uncertainty in the nuclear part of the scattering length. The purpose of this article is to call attention to the existence of these other electromagnetic interactions, to demonstrate that they are important in many kinds of scattering experiments and should be taken into account in the analysis of the data, and to describe two simple ways to correct for them, either of which should be adequate for most purposes.
Focusing of Neutron Beams Using Curved Mirrors for Small Angle Scattering
Authors: Lartigue C. , Copley J.R.D. , Mezei F. , Springer T.
Published: July 2007

Optical focusing using a long curved mirror at grazing incidence is a novelty in small angle neutron scattering (SANS) instrumentation. A good quality focused image is essential if such a device is to be used in a SANS spectrometer. On the one hand, a very smooth mirror surface is most important, since surface roughness produces a detrimental halo surrounding the focused image. This halo has been carefully investigated using X-ray and neutron measurements for different kinds of flat mirror samples. The best image quality is obtained with a highly polished ‘zerodur’ substrate coated with a 65Cu layer protected by a thin Al layer. On the other hand, the quality of the image strongly depends on parameters such as object size, mirror shape, wavelength distribution and gravity; the influence of these parameters has been investigated using ray-tracing Monte-Carlo simulations. These studies have encouraged us to build a 4 m long toroidal mirror to be installed late in 1995 at the new IN15 neutron spin-echo spectrometer at ILL.
Monte Carlo Simulation of TOF Single Crystal Spectroscopy
Authors: Schorr S. , Mezei F. , Stride J. , Guy C.
Published: July 2007

Results of a first Monte Carlo simulation study of constant-q single crystal spectroscopy using a multiwavelength time-of-flight (TOF) technique are presented. We used the time-of-flight wavelength band monochromatization (TOF-monochromator) set-up with an additional fast double chopper just in front of the sample running quasi-asynchronously with the TOF-monochromator and a repetition rate properly chosen for the TOF energy analysis in the secondary spectrometer and independent of the source pulse frequency (repetition rate multiplication). Instead of a single incoming wavelength, we produce a set of short pulses with an array of wavelengths λ1, λ2,  … , λn, with λ(t) and δλ/λ(t) periodically changing in time. Choosing the ratio of the TOF monochromator and the sample end fast chopper speed to be an adequate rational number we measure TOF spectra with a quasi continuous set of incoming wavelengths. The data sets so obtained in two TOF dimensions contain constant Q =q + τ energy spectra with q oriented in any selected direction. The new method inherently ideally adapted for pulsed sources is shown to offer on continuous sources a competetive alternative to triple-axis spectroscopy.
A Review of Laser Driven 3He Neutron Polarizers
Authors: Chupp T.E.
Published: July 2007

Neutron beam polarization by transmission through a sample of laser polarized gaseous 3He is rapidly advancing toward practicality and broad application. Two methods have been developed for polarization of 3He nuclei: exchange of polarization from optically pumped metastable 3He and exchange from optically pumped Rb. The metastability exchange technique is currently used to power a sort of factory capable of producing on the order of liters per hour of 3He that fills bottles that can be transferred to a specific experiment. The spin exchange technique has benefited from industry’s production of high powered laser diode arrays, and complete polarizers can be installed in individual experiments. Though there is no clear advantage to one technique or the other, the competition has provided us with a choice of the best technology for a particular experiment or instrument.
Spectrometer for Neutron Studies of Condensed Matter with a Pulsed Magnetic Field
Authors: Georgiev D. , Nietz V.V. , Petukhova T.B. , Sirotin A.P. , Varenik G.A. , Yakovlev A.A.
Published: July 2007

The main characteristics of the SNIM-2 installation at the IBR-2 pulsed reactor are given. SNIM-2 consists of a time-of-flight neutron spectrometer for elastic and inelastic neutron scattering and a pulsed magnetic device. The SNIM-2 is used to study the structure of phase states induced by a magnetic field in single crystals and the kinetics of phase transitions.
High Resolution Neutron Scattering with Bent Monochromators Made of Commercial Silicon Wafers
Authors: Popovici M. , Herwig K.W. , Berliner R. , Yelon W.B. , Groza L.
Published: July 2007

Commercial thin silicon wafers are shown to be superb focusing crystals in three-axis spectrometers. With fully open beams, they allow resolutions that in conventional flat-crystal arrangements can only be achieved with Soller collimators of 2 min of arc. At given resolution, intensities are much higher than in conventional arrangements with vertically focusing pyrolytic graphite crystals. Resolution ellipsoids were measured by diffraction from powder samples. The ellipsoid orientation is controlled by the crystal curvatures and can be set to any specified value, in particular turned by 90° to pass from high resolution in energy transfer to high resolution in wavevector transfer. At neutron energies on the peak of cold sources spectra the focusing technique gives energy transfer resolutions around 10 µeV. The technique fills the resolution gap between back-scattering instruments and conventional three-axis spectrometers.
Design and Optimisation of a Backscattering Spectrometer using a Phase SpaceTransformation and Super Mirror Guides
Authors: Kirstein O. , Prager M. , Grlmm H. , Richter D.
Published: July 2007

The use of a phase space transformation chopper for a new backscattering spectrometer, planned for the FRM I1 reactor in Munich, is discussed. It will be shown that a phase space transformation increases the neutron flux at the desired backscattering energy. The gain will be compared with a normal super mirrored neutron guide system.
Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis
Authors: Shaw Denis M.
Published: July 2007

Prompt gamma neutron activation analysis is concerned with the detection of a nucleus which undergoes neutron capture, followed by particle or radiation emission, in a time period of < 10−12 s. As usually practised, the emitted radiation is detected and measured while a sample is being irradiated in a reactor neutron beam. After the recognition of neutron capture in the mid-1930s, analytical procedures for elements of high capture cross-section, such as B, Cd, H, Sm and others, had to await the development of thermalised neutron beams and high-resolution detectors, from the mid-1960s on. Analysis theory is based on the (simplified) principle that gamma counts measured are in direct proportion to the number of atoms of the target isotope of the element in the irradiated sample. Practical details of instrumentation depend on the reactor geometry and other factors. PGNAA is a simple, fast and effective analytical procedure, and future development depends on reactor design and construction.
MCGR: An Inverse Method for Deriving the Pair Correlation Function
Authors: Pusztai L. , Mcgreevy R.L.
Published: July 2007

MCGR (Monte Carlo determination of G(r)) is an inverse method for determining the pair correlation function from the structure factor. In this paper we describe the algorithm in detail, including recent developments such as the possible application of coordination constraints, Gaussian smoothing of peak shapes and the ability to subtract a (quadratic) polynomial background. We will illustrate how these have important practical implications for the way that experiments can be performed. Examples of the applications of MCGR to liquids/glasses and crystalline materials will be given.
Neutron Production from Lead Targets for 12-GeV Protons
Authors: Arai M. , Kiyanagi Y. , Watanabe N. , Takagi R. , Shibazaki H. , Numajiri M. , Itoh S. , Otomo T. , Furusaka M. , Inamura Y. , Ogawa Y. , Suda Y. , Satoh S.
Published: July 2007

We carried out an experiment on neutron yields from typical cylindrical lead targets for 12-GeV protons by means of the Mn-bath moderation method. Our experimental results are, roughly speaking, consistent with those by Russian groups done for lower energy protons by different methods. The number of neutrons absorbed in the Mn-bath was determined to be 195 neutrons/proton, and the total neutron yield, including leakage neutrons, which were evaluated by calculations, was estimated to be 201 neutrons/proton for a 20 cm (diameter) × 60 cm (length) lead target. The total neutron yield as a function of the proton energy Ep, fitted to our data and the results of others, is expressed by the formula 2.0 + 29.2E0.78p, where Ep is expressed in GeV.
Investigating the reliability of the Key Stage 2 test results for assessing individual pupil achievement and progress in England
Authors: Doyle Lesley , Godfrey Ray
Published: July 2007

'Personalised learning' and the value of national assessment data in achieving it have been identified by the UK Secretary of State for Education and Skills as essential for raising educational standards. Employing multilevel analysis, this paper compares children's end of primary school
(Key Stage 2) test scores with those they achieved in comparable test papers taken in each term of their first year of secondary school. The paper questions the reliability of national assessment data in respect of the performance of individual children, their predictive validity and thus
their value in contributing to the provision of 'personalised learning'.
Substrate specificity of lentil seedling amine oxidase
Authors: Medda Rosaria , Padiglia Alessandra , Pedersen Jens Z. , Lorrai Anita , Floris Giovanni
Published: July 2007

Copper diamine oxidase from lentil (Lens culinaris) seedlings was shown to be able to catalyze the oxidative deamination of a wide range of aliphatic and aromatic monoamine compounds, including some amino acids. Although the catalytic efficiencies were only 1‐3% of that measured with the diamine substrate putrescine, they were still comparable to those of specialized monoamine oxidases. In particular, the lentil enzyme oxidized benzylamine and histamine with Km and Vmax values similar to those found for the mammalian enzymes benzylamine oxidase and histaminase. Cysteamine was found to be a substrate of the enzyme, whereas hypotaurine and taurine were found to be neither substrates nor inhibitors of the enzyme. Quite unexpectedly the aminoacids L‐ornithine and L‐lysine were oxidized by lentil enzyme, and β‐alanine and γ‐aminobutyric acid were oxidized only at high concentrations of enzyme. These results suggest that enzymes normally classified as diamine oxidases could in fact have a more diversified role in metabolism than recognized so far.
Synchronous gene expressions during embryogenesis of Oncorhynchus masou (Yamame)
Authors: Kanaya Shigehiko , Kudo Yoshihiro , Moki‐Toda Shouzo , Katsura Kazuhiko , Carpio Carlos Del
Published: July 2007

In order to detect periods of synchronous gene expressions during embryogenesis of Oncorhynchus masou (Yamame), we analyzed the peptide constituents of the embryos by means of two‐dimensional electrophoresis. New kinds of peptides were mainly detected in three periods, i.e. between the 12th and 13th day, between the 20th and 21st day, and between the 30th and 31st day after fertilization. Hatching occurred between the 34th and 37th day. These indicate that these three periods, which corespond to (1) the shifting stage from maternal to nuclear events in gene expression, (2) the development of external organs such as fins, and (3) the preparative stage for hatching, respectively, may be critical stages in gene expression.
Dependence of depurination of oligoribonucleotides by ricin A‐chain on divalent cations and chelating agents
Authors: Glück Anton , Wool Ira G.
Published: July 2007

Ricin A‐chain is a cytotoxic RNA N‐glycosidase that inactivates eukaryotic ribosomes by depurinating the adenosine at position 4324 in 28S rRNA. The enzyme retains its specificity when a synthetic oligoribonucleotide (a 35‐mer) that mimics the structure at the site of action is the substrate. However, covalent modification by ricin A‐chain of the oligoribonucleotide but not of ribosomes, depends on the simultaneous presence of a divalent cation and a chelating agent.
A supercoil‐specific endonuclease from Salmonella typhimurium cleaves both negatively and positively supercoiled DNA
Authors: Zargar Manzoor Ahmad , Chakravorty Maharani
Published: July 2007

An enzyme which specifically cleaves supercoiled DNA to linear form through nicked circular form as intermediate was isolated from rifampicin‐resistant mutant of Salmonella typhimurium, rif 39. The enzyme activity was stimulated by Mg++, whereas Ca++ had no effect. It does not require ATP for its activity. No activity could be detected with relaxed or single stranded circular DNAs. The molecular weight of the enzyme is approximately 34 kDa. The most characteristic feature of this enzyme is that it cleaves both positively and negatively supercoiled DNAs.
Identification of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in human leukemia HL‐60 cells and its induction by lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Nishihira Jun , Koyama Yoshikazu , Mizue Yuka
Published: July 2007

Cytokines play an important role in inflammation and immunity. In this study, we examined the expression and presence of human macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in human myelomonocytic leukemia cell line, HL‐60 by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and immunological methods (Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry), respectively. The RT‐PCR showed that MIF mRNA was constitutively expressed, and the expression was further induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. The expression was up‐regulated by LPS at the range of 10 pg/ml to 10 ng/ml; however, it decreased at doses higher than 100 ng/ml. The expression reached the maximum 12 hr after the stimulation, but substantially decreased by 24 hr. Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry using an anti‐human MIF antibody revealed the presence of MIF protein in cytoplasm of the cells. The pathophysiological role of MIF in HL‐60 cells has not been fully understood; however, the regulation of MIF mRNA expression by LPS suggests the possibility that the cytokine plays an important role in inflammatory events of leukemia.
Pattern recognition approach to nucleic acid sequences
Authors: Seetharaman J. , Srinivasan R.
Published: July 2007

A pattern recognition method through the two dimensional matrix representation of the nucleic acids sequence is developed. This approach of two dimensional plotting primarily enables to visualize all types of bonding between different bases in a RNA or DNA. The two dimensional matrix uses the capability of intramolecular Watson‐Crick type (A‐U and C‐G) and Wobble type (G‐U) base pairing. The method discusses both parallel and anti‐parallel stranded base pairing. The application of the method to tRNA is shown.
Preparation and specificity of antibodies to an anti‐tumor β‐glucan, lentinan
Authors: Mizono Masashi , Minato Ken‐ichiro , Tsuchida Hironobu
Published: July 2007

Antibodies against β‐glucan, lentinan from “Shiitake” (Lentinus edodes), were raised in the rabbit by subcutaneous immunization. Our antibodies reacted significantly with lentinan by inhibition assay of ELISA. The antibodies did not recognize the other polysaccharides such as amylose, dextran, laminarin and galactan. It was proved that lentinan contents in mushroom could be measured by ELISA with the anti‐lentinan antisera. Its contents were 3.5 mg/g fresh weight in Lentinus edodes. However, lentinan was not contained in Agaricus brazei, Agaricus bisporus and Ramaria bitrytis.
A new simple method of representing relative orientation of bases in DNA helical structures
Authors: Seetharaman J. , Srinivasan R.
Published: July 2007

It is shown that the strandwise correlation of the torsion angles in Nucleic acid structures can throw light on the aspects like helical distortion, in double helical and other associated forms. The single crystal X‐ray coordinates for 7 A‐DNA, 29 B‐DNA, 8 Z‐DNA and 4 tRNA structures are used to calculate the glycosyl angle χ and they are plotted in a two dimensional plot. A new torsion angle π is defined as O4′‐C1′‐N1(9)‐X, where X is a fictitious atom on the normal at N1(9). The χ1 vs. χ2 plots (where 1 and 2 refer to I and II‐strand of DNA respectively) show the characteristic clustering features of A, B and Z DNAs. They are also compactly reflected in the modified graphical representation like (χ1 + χ2) vs. |χ1 ‐ χ2| plot. χ1 vs. χ2 plot of the Hoogsteen type of base pairing obtained from the tRNA structures is off diagonal. The distortions due to complexing of the structures under each category, in particular, B‐DNAs is readily observed. The observed points of A/B hybrid form clusters between A and B uncomplexed forms. The new torsion angle π shows similar behavior as that of χ.
Expression of mRNA encoding cAMP‐specific phosphodiesterase isoforms in rat parotid glands
Authors: Imai Akane , Nashida Tomoko , Shimomura Hiromi
Published: July 2007

In previous reports, we have shown that cAMP‐specific phosphodiesterase (PDE4) is the major PDE in the rat parotid gland, and that PDE4 is activated by phosphorylation. In this study, we investigated the expression of PDE4 isoform genes and alternative splicing variants of PDE4D in the rat parotid gland using reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). PDE4A, PDE4B, PDE4C and PDE4D of PDE4 subfamily were expressed. PDE4D was found to be the dominant PDE4 isoform. A weak band of PDE4C was detectable. Three alternative splicing variants (PDE4D1, PDE4D2 and PDE4D3) derived from the rat PDE4D gene were expressed in the parotid gland. These data suggested that the intracellular cAMP level is regulated by multiple response mechanisms through the activations of the PDE by phosphorylation and gene expression in the rat parotid gland.
Phosphatidylserine directs differential phosphorylation of actin and glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase by protein kinase C: Possible implications for regulation of actin polymerization
Authors: Reiss Nachum , Oplatka Avraham , Hermon Jacob , Naor Zvi
Published: July 2007

The phospholipid‐dependent protein kinase C is implicated in the regulation of cellular motility and energy metabolism. Phosphatidylserine, a main cofactor of protein kinase C, is involved in the regulation of glyceraldhehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, which as actin, was shown to be phosphorylated by purified protein kinase C. Here, we study the effect of phosphatidylserine on the enzyme‐substrate interaction of protein kinase C with glyceraldhehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase and actin. The stoichiometry of glyceraldhehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase phosphorylation is not affected by varying the level of phosphatidylserine. However, actin phosphorylation is dependent on phosphatidylserine level, peaking at high phosphatidylserine concentration. Moreover, if actin and glyceraldhehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase are cophosphorylated at high phosphatidylserine concentration, actin phosphorylation is favored, despite lower affinity for protein kinase C. Hence, phosphatidylserine directs differential phosphorylation of these key proteins of glycolysis and cellular motility and might be capable of recruiting protein kinase C for preferential actin phosphorylation. The sedimentation of phosphorylated actin is increased 3.8 fold and total actin 1.7 fold, suggesting that phosphorylation promotes actin polymerization.
Azospirillum lipoferum tRNAs: Fractionation and identification of tRNA species and the nucleotide sequence of tRNAAsn (QUU)
Authors: Sivakamasundari R. , Jayabaskaran C.
Published: July 2007

Transfer RNAs of Azospirillum lipoferum were separated by two‐ dimensional gel electrophoresis and identified by aminoacylation. Thirty‐six tRNA spots were resolved by this technique and twenty‐six tRNA species have been identified. There are five tRNAs for Leu, four for Val, three for Pro, two each for Arg, Ile, Lys and Tyr, and one each for Ala, Asp, His, Phe, Ser and Thr. The tRNAAsn (QUU) was purified and its nucleotide sequence was determined. The A. lipoferum tRNAAsn (QUU is 92% similar to lB. subtilis tRNAAsn gene and two hypermodified nucleosides, queuosine (Q) and N‐(9‐β‐D Ribofuranosylpurine‐6‐YL) ‐ carbamoyl)‐ threonine (t6A) are present in this tRNA.
Structural determinats of cobrotoxin affect its mobility on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel
Authors: Chang Long‐sen , Chou Lidge , Chang Chun‐Chang
Published: July 2007

In order to identify the structural determinants of cobrotoxin that caused its anomalous mobility in sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) gel, comparative studies on the capacities of cobrotoxin and its modified derivatives for binding with SDS were made. Cobrotoxin migrates faster in SDS gel after modification of Lys residues or carboxylated groups. However, the capacities of modified derivatives for binding with SDS molecules did not show a positive correlation with their electrophoretic mobilities. Moreover, it was found that the segment at positions 22‐38 had the greatest capacity to bind with SDS than other segments of cobrotoxin, but guanidination of Lys residues of this peptide fragment did not significantly change its migration. These results suggest that the SDS‐binding capacity of cobrotoxin is not solely responsible for its anomalous mobility in SDS gel, and that the effects may arise from the electrostatic interactions between Lys residue and carboxylated groups.
Interleukin‐4 stimulates rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts to express matrix metalloproteinase‐1 (tissue collagenase) and histamine H1 receptor mRNA
Authors: Zenmyo Michihisa , Hiraoka Koji , Sasaguri Takakazu , Komiya Setsuro , Inoue Akio , Morimatsu Minoru , Sasaguri Yasuyuki
Published: July 2007

In the present study, we investigated the effect of interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) on metalloproteinase 1 (MMP‐1/tissue collagenase) production in human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts. Northern blot analysis revealed that addition of IL‐4 with or without histamine stimulated the cells to increase the amount of proMMP‐1 mRNA, and the IL‐4 with histamine addition resulted in a 3.3‐fold increase compared with histamine only. Furthermore, IL‐4 itself stimulated the expression of histamine H1 receptor mRNA. These results suggest that IL‐4 may play an important role in joint destruction in RA.
A novel property of adenine nucleotides: Sensitivity to helium‐neon laser in mitochondrial reactions
Authors: Gagliardi S. , Atlante A. , Passarella S.
Published: July 2007

Consideration is made here of the ability of He‐Ne laser light to affect both transport and enzymic reactions by acting on substrates. Adenine nucleotides irradiated with 3 Joules/cm2 fluence (10 mW/cm2 fluence rate) showed altered biochemical behaviour when used as substrates for certain mitochondrial reactions in isolated rat liver mitochondria: ADP/ATP antiport and ATP synthase, which allow for oxidative phosphorylation, and adenylate kinase reaction. In order to determine ATP synthase kinetics a specific method was developed which allows for calculation of ADP phosphorylation rate in intact mitochondria. While no change in ATP synthase kinetics was observed as a result of ADP irradiation, adenine nucleotides proved to be sensitive to He‐Ne laser irradiation when their interaction with ADP/ATP carrier and adenylate kinase was considered.
Small regions of preferential codon usage and their effect on overall codon bias ‐ The case of the plp gene
Authors: Gatherer Derek , McEwan Neil R.
Published: July 2007

Preferential codon usage within synonymous groups (codon bias), is hypothesised to be a consequence of either mutational pressure or translational selection. This paper examines PLP and DM‐20, two transcripts differentially spliced from the plp gene, using a variety of previously described indices measuring codon bias as well as a novel index for quantifying the response to directional mutation pressure. The results demonstrate that small regions of extreme codon bias may have appreciable effects on the quantification of total bias, and that this effect may be either an increase or a decrease depending which index is used.
Prokaryotic iron superoxide dismutase replaces cytosolic copper, zinc superoxide dismutase in protecting yeast cells against oxidative stress
Authors: Agius Dolores R. , Bannister William H. , Balzan Rena
Published: July 2007

The iron superoxide dismutase (FeSOD) gene of Escherichia coli was cloned in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells deficient in copper, zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu,ZnSOD). FeSOD replaced Cu,ZnSOD in protecting the yeast cells against oxidative stress. In the recombinant strains the FeSOD gene, which was under the transcriptional control of the yeast phosphoglycerate kinase gene promoter, was functionally expressed at two different levels on episomal and centromeric plasmids. Despite suppression of methionine and lysine auxotrophy, the higher level of FeSOD activity was more beneficial to growth of the mutant yeast cells only when these were exposed to higher levels of oxidative stress induced by paraquat or 100% oxygen. In the presence of paraquat, there was a novel stimulation of FeSOD activity. This was associated with a marked increase in catalase activity, and a decrease in glutathione reductase activity.
Regulation of tumour cell fatty acid oxidation by n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Colquhoun Alison , de Mello Fábio E. P. , Curi Rui
Published: July 2007

Fatty acids have been shown to regulate the expression of mRNA for both lipogenic and glycolytic enzymes in rat liver. The role of fatty acids in the regulation of carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) I and II activity in tumour cells was investigated. The polyunsaturated fatty acids, γ‐linolenic and arachidonic acid, caused 60‐70% inhibition of tumour cell CPT I activity and 45‐50% inhibition of [14C]‐palmitic acid oxidation to 14CO2. These effects were blocked by the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin. Prostaglandins E1 and E2 caused marked inhibition of both CPT I and CPT II activity and inhibition of cell proliferation. Prostaglandin E2 production by tumour cells was increased in the presence of arachidonic acid and inhibited when indomethacin was present. The proliferation of the HT29 cell line was unaffected as was its CPT I and II activity by both fatty acids and prostaglandins. CPT I mRNA expression was not inhibited by fatty acids, indeed it increased in the presence of arachidonic acid and prostaglandin E1. These results strongly suggest that polyunsaturated n‐6 fatty acids are able, via prostaglandin products, to regulate the CPT activity of certain tumour cells. This may have a considerable impact on mitochondrial β‐oxidation and cellular metabolism of fatty acids, reflected in the marked inhibition of cell proliferation by these fatty acids.
Short‐term effect of dexamethasone on fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis in isolated rat hepatocytes
Authors: Giudetti Anna Maria , Gnoni Gabriele V.
Published: July 2007

The short‐term effect of dexamethasone, a synthetic glucocorticoid, on both fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis has been investigated in rat hepatocyte cultures. Within 4h following hormone addition to the cultures, a noticeable stimulation of labelled acetate incorporation into fatty acids was observed. Similar behaviour was noticed when [3H]H20 was used as an independent index of the lipogenic activity. In the same cultures, however, cholesterol synthesis from both [14C]acetate or [3H]H20 was significantly reduced by dexamethasone addition. In these conditions, no significative variation of cholesterol synthesis starting from labelled mevalonate was observed.
Free radical scavenging activity of fermented papaya preparation and its effect on lipid peroxide level and superoxide dismutase activity in iron‐induced epileptic foci of rats
Authors: Imao Katsuki , Wang H. , Komatsu M. , Hiramatsu M.
Published: July 2007

Fermented papaya preparation is a natural health food that has been commercially sold in Japan for 2 years. It is made by yeast fermentation of Carica Papaya Linn. We examined the antioxidant action of the fermented papaya preparation on free radicals and lipid peroxidation. Free radicals have been related with aging and diseases, such as cancer, diabetes and especially in neurological disorders, for example, Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease. A diet including variable antioxidant foods may therefore help to prevent these illnesses.

The free radical scavenging activity of the fermented papaya preparation was examined using an electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrometer. Fermented papaya preparation (50mg/ml) scavenged 80% of hydroxyl radicals, (·OH) as spin adducts of spin trap, 5,5‐dimethyl‐l‐pyrroline‐N‐oxide (DMPO) (5.27×1015 spins/ml) generated by Fenton reagents. The value of IC50 was 12.5mg/ml. The oral administration of the fermented papaya preparation for 4 weeks decreased the elevated of lipid peroxide levels in the ipsilateral 30 min after injection of iron solution by iron into the left cortex of rats. The fermented papaya preparation also increased superoxide dismutase activity in the cortex and hippocampus of them. These results suggest that the fermented papaya preparation has antioxidant actions and that it may be prophylactic food against the age related and neurological diseases associated with free radicals.
Analysis of common mutations and associated haplotypes in Chinese patients with glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
Authors: Li Peining , Thompson Jerry N. , Wang Xiaoyun , Song Li
Published: July 2007

Glucose‐6‐phophate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a rare disease in North China. In the present investigation, DNA samples from 17 patients with G6PD deficiency from Tianjin area in North China were studied for the two G6PD common mutations (R459L and R463H) and two single nucleotide polymorphisms (1311C/T and 1365‐13T/C) using a dideoxy fingerprinting method. Five patients were positive for mutation R459L, and six patients were positive for mutation R463H. Further haplotype analyses using three flanking dinucleotide repeat polymorphism loci, DXS1123, DXS1113, and F8C(IVS 13), were performed on 14 patient families and 16 control Chinese females. The results indicated that the two common mutations were from different haplotypes. Also, the data suggested a possible allelic association between the two G6PD common mutations and the F8C(IVS13) locus and a different allelic distribution for loci DXS1113 and F8C(IVS13) between Chinese and Caucasian populations.
Effects of chronic electroconvulsive shock on the expression of β‐adrenergic receptors in rat brain: Immunological study
Authors: Seo Dong Ook , Shin Chang Young , Seung Chang Hyun , Han Sun Young , Ko Kwang Ho
Published: July 2007

The purpose of the present study is to determine the effect of chronic electroconvulsive shock (ECS) on the expression of β‐adrenergic receptors in rat brain by Western blot using mAb β CO2, a monoclonal antibody against β‐adrenergic receptors. Rats in ECS treated groups received maximal ECS (70 mA, 0.5 second, 60 Hz) through ear‐clip electrodes for 12 consecutive days. The experiment was carried out in 14 discrete regions of brain. Chronic ECS reduced the expression of β‐adrenergic receptors in frontal cortex, temporal cortex, parietooccipital cortex, hippocampus and limbic forebrain, but not in other areas of brain. The regional specificity and the magnitude of the reduction of receptor expression are well correlated with those of the reduction of receptor ligand binding, which was determined using [3H]dihydroalprenolol. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate that chronic ECS decreases the expression of receptor protein in specific regions of rat brain.