bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychotherapy in Argentina: A clinical case from an integrative perspective
Authors: Gómez Beatriz
Published: June 2007

The article describes psychotherapy practice in Argentina. It outlines the main features of training and regulation of clinical psychologists. A brief description of the main treatment approaches and the major current challenges is presented. Subsequently it delineates the probable treatment locations and options for a 30‐year‐old woman, Mrs. A, seeking psychological help in Argentina. The case is then considered from an integrative perspective starting with the intake process, which includes a comprehensive pretreatment assessment followed by the treatment plan. Its course is described as composed of four stages: (1) psychoeducational initial intervention, (2) psychotherapy for symptom alleviation, (3) marital treatment, and (4) psychoeducational final intervention. Posttreatment evaluation and possible outcome and prognosis are presented, as well as factors that might prevent improvment. The article ends with a hopeful view of the future role of psychotherapy in Argentina. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 63: 713–723, 2007.
Community service or activism as an identity project for youth
Authors: Harré Niki
Published: June 2007

This article reviews the literature on community service and activism, particularly in youth, using the theoretical approach provided by an identity projects framework. This framework allows for an examination of the contextual and experiential factors that contribute to the emergence and maintenance of an identity project of service or activism. The contributors to project emergence may include: favourable social structures, collective crises, biographical availability, parental modelling, experiencing or witnessing injustice or suffering, inspiring stories, altruistic personality, religious values, and organisational affiliations. For many participants, these projects appear associated with intense experiences of belonging, stimulation, efficacy, and integrity. These experiences may be of great importance in reinforcing and expanding service or activism. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 35: 711–724, 2007.
Molecular properties of local anesthetics as predictors of affinity for nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Pagán Oné R. , Sivaprakasam Kannan , Oswald Robert E.
Published: June 2007

In spinal anesthesia, the effects of local anesthetics (LAs) are not completely explained by sodium channel inhibition. Other targets include neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). LA affinities for theTorpedo californicanAChR were measured by inhibition of [3H]TCP binding and correlated with molecular volume, surface area, molecular weight, and log of the octanol‐water partition coefficients (P and D). To understand the molecular determinants important for interaction with the nAChR, ester and amide LAs were compared separately. Also, correlations with the aromatic/linker half and the hydrophilic half of the LA molecules were considered individually. The IC50s of the ester LAs correlated better with the molecular volume, surface area, molecular weight, and log P of the aromatic/linker half of the molecules; whereas the IC50s for amide LAs correlated better with the four parameters based on the hydrophilic half. These correlations were used to predict the IC50of various LAs (including several not studied here) and to compare these values with the published values. The predicted values of IC50correlated well with the published results both for neuronal and for electroplaque‐desensitized nAChR, suggesting that the results can be generalized to include neuronal nAChRs. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
VFR tourism: the importance of university students as hosts
Authors: Bischoff Eberhard E. , Koenig‐Lewis Nicole
Published: June 2007

The role of university students in attracting friends and relatives as visitors to their place of study is examined. A questionnaire survey conducted at a UK university is presented in the context of general UK tourism and the visits to friends and relatives (VFR) sector in particular. It is demonstrated that universities represent large, frequently underestimated, generators of VFR tourism and that significant differences exist between the friends and the relatives' components. The paper draws concrete conclusions about the marketing opportunities and argues that the students themselves represent the most effective target for promotion efforts. It also points out possibilities for turning day visits into overnight stays, particularly in the relatives' segment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prospective Screening in Liver Transplant Recipients by Panfungal PCR-ELISA for Early Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Infections
Authors: Badiee Parisa , Kordbacheh Parivash , Alborzi Abdolvahab , Malekhoseini SeyedAli , Zeini Farideh , Mirhendi Hosein , Mahmoodi Mahmood
Published: June 2007

Invasive fungal infections after liver transplantation (LT) have resulted in high mortality and potentially fatal complications. This study was undertaken to determine the accuracy of the panfungal polymerase chain reaction enzyme link immunosorbent assay (PCR-ELISA) method in early diagnosis of invasive fungal infections in liver transplant recipients (LTRs). A total of 48 liver recipients (cadaver donors) were followed for fungal infections for a period of at least 6 months. All clinical samples were cultured and a direct microscopic examination was performed. Blood samples were cultured by bedside inoculation onto BACTEC medium. Whole blood specimens were collected prospectively once per week and were evaluated for any invasive fungal infections by panfungal PCR and PCR-ELISA. Among 48 transplant recipients between September 2004 and January 2006 (22 females, 28 males, mean age = 34.4 yr), 40 recipients (83.3%) had Candida colonization in different sites of their body before LT. In proven and probable recipients for panfungal PCR-ELISA, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were 83.3%, 91.7%, 76.9%, and 94.3%, respectively. By PCR assay, fungal infections were diagnosed in 10 recipients (20.8%). The mean interval time from transplantation to development of fungal infection was 61.4 days (range, 20-150 days) and time of infection in blood before any clinical signs was 7-70 days with mean of 21.4 days. The etiologic agents were Candida albicans (9 cases) and Aspergillus fumigatus (1 case). Use of PCR-ELISA in LTRs may not only improve the ability of early diagnosis of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) when positive results are obtained, but also would provide more confidence to exclude a diagnosis of IFIs when negative results are obtained. Liver Transpt 13:1011–1016, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Short-Term Induction Therapy with Anti-Thymocyte Globulin and Delayed Use of Calcineurin Inhibitors in Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Soliman Thomas , Hetz Hubert , Burghuber Christoph , Györi Georg , Silberhumer Gerd , Steininger Rudolf , Mühlbacher Ferdinand , Berlakovich Gabriela A.
Published: June 2007

The appropriate time point for starting immunosuppressive treatment with calcineurin inhibitors after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) has been a subject of debate. The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) induction therapy on rejection, renal function, infection, tumor rate, and survival. We retrospectively analyzed 391 patients after OLT who had either received calcineurin inhibitors immediately after OLT (n = 129) or after an initial short-term Thymoglobulin induction therapy (n = 262). The 1-year acute rejection rate was 14.5% vs. 31.8% in favor of ATG (P = 0.0008). Rejection grades and the need for treatment also differed significantly (7.3% vs. 23.3%; P = 0.001). Serum creatinine at transplantation was similar in both groups (1.14 mg/dL vs.1.18 mg/dL; P = NS). Postoperative hemofiltration was less frequently seen after induction therapy (P < 0.05). Reduced renal function at 1 year was commonly observed, but serum creatinine (1.26 mg/dL vs. 1.37mg/dL; P = 0.015) and glomerular filtration rate (81 mL/min vs. 75 mL/min; P = 0.02) were far better in the ATG group. Undesired side effects occurred at a similar rate in both groups. Five-year patient survival was also similar in the 2 groups (70.1% and 74.3%; P > 0.05). Short-term ATG induction therapy with delayed administration of calcineurin inhibitors led to a more favorable rejection rate and an improved clinical course in case of a rejection episode. It has beneficial effects on renal function immediately after OLT as well as later, and no additional harmful effects. Liver Transpl 13:1039–1044, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Attitude of Hospital Personnel Faced with Living Liver Donation in a Spanish Center with a Living Donor Liver Transplant Program
Authors: Ríos A. , Ramírez P. , Rodríguez M. M. , Martínez L. , Rodríguez J. M. , Galindo P. J. , Parrilla P.
Published: June 2007

In Spain, despite its high rate of cadaveric donation, death while on the liver transplant waiting list is high. For this reason, living liver donation is being encouraged despite of the risk of morbidity for the donor. The objective of this study was to analyze attitudes toward living liver donation among hospital personnel in a hospital with a recently authorized living donor liver transplantation program. A random sample was taken and was stratified by type of service and job category (n = 1,262). Attitude was evaluated by means of a validated psychosocial questionnaire. The questionnaire was completed anonymously and was self-administered. Statistical analysis included the Student t test, the χ2 test, and logistical regression analysis. The questionnaire completion rate was 93% (n = 1,168). Only 15% (n = 170) of respondents were in favor of living liver donation if it were unrelated. An additional 65% (n = 766) were in favor if this donation, but only for relatives. Of the rest, 9% (n = 107) did not agree with living liver donation, and the remaining 11% (n = 125) were undecided. The variables related to this attitude were age (P = 0.044); job category (P = 0.002); type of service (according to whether it is related to organ donation and transplantation) (P = 0.044); participation in prosocial activities (P = 0.026); attitude toward cadaveric organ donation (P <0.001); attitude of a respondent's partner toward organ donation (P = 0.010); a respondent's belief that in the future, he or she may need a transplant (P < 0.001); and a willingness to receive a donated living liver organ if one were needed (P < 0.001). There is also a close relationship between attitude toward living kidney donation and living liver donation (P < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, the only common independent variable from the bivariate analysis was a willingness to receive a living donor liver transplant if one were needed (odds ratio = 9.3). Attitude toward living liver donation among hospital personnel in a hospital with a solid organ transplant program is favorable and is affected by factors related to cadaveric donation, altruistic activity, and feelings of reciprocity. Physicians and the youngest hospital workers are those who are most in favor, which leads us to think that there is a promising future for living liver transplantation, which is essential given the cadaveric organ deficit and the high mortality rate while on the waiting list. Liver Transpl 13:1049–1056, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Synthesis and Properties of Hydrophilic Networks Based on Poly(ethylene glycol) and β‐Cyclodextrin
Authors: Cesteros Luis C. , Ramírez Camilo A. , Peciña Ainhoa , Katime Issa
Published: June 2007

New hydrophilic networks combining poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) have been prepared. Both components are linked by reacting PEG chains previously end‐capped with isocyanate groups and β‐CD, forming urethane links. Networks of molar compositions (β‐CD/PEG) ranging from 1/4 to 1/14, and with four different molar masses (400, 600, 900, and 1 350 g · mol−1) of the end‐capped PEG precursor have been synthesized. The networks have good thermal stability and low glass transition temperatures. Crystallinity has only been detected for the two higher molar mass PEG precursors. The swelling properties of these hydrogels depend on the chain lengths of the PEG precursor and also on the temperatures.

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Microstructure, Kinetics, and Transport in Oil‐in‐Water Microemulsion Polymerizations
Authors: O'Donnell Jennifer , Kaler Eric W.
Published: June 2007

The kinetics of microemulsion polymerization depend on the structure of the initial microemulsion and the transport of species between the aqueous domain, the micelles, and the polymer particles. The water solubility of the monomer and the proximity of the initial microemulsion composition to a phase boundary are key considerations for studying microemulsion polymerization kinetics and producing the desired products. Complications frequently arise in the synthesis of copolymers or the incorporation of controlled polymerization mechanisms because of the compartmentalized nature of microemulsion polymerizations.

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Optimizing Melt‐Processing Conditions for the Preparation of iPP/Fumed Silica Nanocomposites: Morphology, Mechanical and Gas Permeability Properties
Authors: Vassiliou Alexandros , Bikiaris Dimitrios , Pavlidou Eleni
Published: June 2007

A series of iPP/SiO2 nanocomposites, containing 1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 wt.‐% fumed silica nanoparticles, were prepared by melt mixing in a twin screw co‐rotating extruder. The effect of different extrusion parameters was evaluated. The size of aggregates increased with increase in SiO2 content and repetition of the mixing process improved the filler's dispersion. A similar effect was also exhibited by either increasing the rotor speed or the mixing temperature, with the latter being more pronounced at the ranges studied. The mechanical properties of the prepared nanocomposites were evaluated and various models used to explain the observed enhancements. However, only the three‐phase model could provide some correlation with the experimental results. All nanocomposites displayed lower permeability to gases.

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The city manager as a leader of policy
Authors: Ellis Ellen Deborah
Published: June 2007

Should the city manager be a leader in the formulation of policy? Is it proper that he should be “in politics”? Or must he remain merely an executive responsible for routine operation only?
„Rotten borough”︁ representation in Ohio
Authors: Aumann F. R.
Published: June 2007

The vanishing farmer maintailzs his grip on Ohio politics.
Pooling a region's credit consolidation of municipal borrowing powers on a regional scale
Authors: Sampson E. T.
Published: June 2007

The Montreal Metropolitan Commiwion has fulfilled expectations. Mr. Sampson, writing on the basis of Canadian methods of debt administration, points out how the idea can be applied elsewhere.
Tax reform in tennessee
Authors: Prescott Frank W.
Published: June 2007

The new tax system proposed by Tennessee TGX Committee includes personal and corporation income taxes and abolition of vexatious license taxes. Chanyes in county government are recommended.
The municipal science institute of the university of Berlin
Authors: Norden Walter
Published: June 2007

The Municipal Science. Institute is a training, research and consulting agency, supported, for the most part, by the state.
Substituting precision for guesswork in personnel efficiency records the probst rating system
Authors: Probst J. B.
Published: June 2007

„… To see oursel's as ithers see us”︁.
Flint's first six months of manager government
Authors: Becker Viola M.
Published: June 2007

The first half‐year puts manayer government to severe test. City administration qreatlii inaproverl and politics eliminated from city's business activities.
The year 1930 in the history of Virginia counties
Authors: Corson John J.
Published: June 2007

The discovery thal the friendly padice of „holding out tax ticket”︁ spelled treasury shortages put county government reform on the first page in Virginia.
A financial dictatorship for fall river
Authors: Fishack Howard G.
Published: June 2007

This New England city was suddenly faced by Jinancial dificulties which had been accumulating for years while the city government continued its care‐free extravagance. By adion of the Yassachusetts legislature a „creditors' committee”︁ has taken charge.
A modernistic civic center for richmond, California
Authors: Aronovici Carol
Published: June 2007

Richmond is an industrial city. To be archdecturdly appropriate the new civic center must meet the demands of utility as well as beauty.
The city plan of boulder city
Authors: de Boer S. R.
Published: June 2007

A new, made‐to‐order city is arising to h u e the persons employed on the construction and maintenance of the Hoover Dam. Its plan incorporates the most modern ideas of how a town should be built.
San Francisco adopts a new chapter
Authors: Nanry William H.
Published: June 2007

The new charter, unique in some reapects, will improve the efficiency of San Franciaco's government.
Reduced costs the key to reduced municipal taxes
Authors: Egger Rowland A.
Published: June 2007

The New Jersey commission on local taxation and expenditures makes a state‐wide investigation of local government costs and proposes new methods for getting and keeping them down.
Four years of socialism in reading, Pennsylvania
Authors: Hodges Henry G.
Published: June 2007

The Socialist party has had complete control of the municipal government of Reading, Pennsylvania, Since 1928, In a careful analysis of their administration Dr. Hodges finds city of officials of all parties are pretty much alike.
Jubilee in Chicago
Authors: Wooddy Carroll Hill
Published: June 2007

News item: The week of May 10 was celebrated as Jubihe Week in Chicago.
Washington's public ownership district power law
Authors: Hall James K.
Published: June 2007

The story of a hot campaign resulting in victory for the District Power Bill making possible rural public ownership of light and power systems. Probable significance of the new law.
Gems of gubernatorial wisdom culled by Harvey Walker from governors' messages of 1931
Authors: Walker Harvey
Published: June 2007

Some you will agree with; some you will not agree with; some, perhaps, you will not understand.
Rotten boroughs in Georgia
Authors: Gosneu Cullen B.
Published: June 2007

Unfair representation at its worst. No regard is paid either to population or taxpaying. The basis is wholly arbitrary.
Pittsburgh's city administration undergoing repairs
Authors: Eibling Elbert
Published: June 2007

Improved practices follow exposures in departments of supplies and public works.
The economics and politics of Cleveland's municipal light plant
Authors: Wright Howell
Published: June 2007

Although the Cleveland Municipal Light Plant has been honestly managed, asserts Nr. Wright, it has not fulfilled the political promises made in its behalf, nor has it been an appreciable factor in controlling rates of the privde companies.
More water for southern California
Authors: Tegroen William P.
Published: June 2007

The Metropolitan Water District comprising Los Angela and thirteen other cities is going 300 miles to the Colorado River for more water.
County reorganization blocked by Ohio legislature
Authors: Atkinson R. C.
Published: June 2007

Small‐county men and city‐machine politicians unite to defeat a proposed home rule amendment to enable counties to modernize their government with expanded powers to meet metropolitan needs.
How rochester manages its real estate
Authors: Allen Warren W.
Published: June 2007

With the advent of city manager government Rochester adopted business methods in purchasing and managing municipal real estate.
Municipal debt limits and the financ ing of publicly owned utilities
Authors: Durisch Lawrence L.
Published: June 2007

The attitude of the courts towards various devices for evading debt limits with respect to publicly owned utilities.
The Massachusetts billboard cases
Authors: Bard Albert S.
Published: June 2007

The master appointed by the Supreme Court of Massachusetts makes his report–a victory for foes of the billboard.
Tax investigations in twenty‐six states
Authors: Graham George A.
Published: June 2007

Dissatisfaction with the general property tax, friendly advances to the state income tax and attention to local government economies feature the official reports.
Regionalism–a new approach to the good life
Authors: Ascher Charles S.
Published: June 2007

Regionalism takes on a new meaning and signijkance for municipal administration. It affects social, economic, and political values.
How Boston feeds its Hungry from tax funds
Authors: Pear William H.
Published: June 2007

Among the large cities, Boston is second only to Detroit in per capita expenditures for poor relief, but her chief reliance has been on tax‐paid funds without any emergency drives, bread lines, or apple selling. Cooperation with private agencies has been developed to high point of efficiency.
Municipal affairs in India
Authors: Fairlie John A.
Published: June 2007

Professor Fairlie has recently returned fmn an extended world tour. In this article he describes the curious mingling of the East and the West in the municipal governments of India.
Chicago's poor relief machinery stands the test
Authors: Reynolds W. S.
Published: June 2007

The Council of Social Agencies in which public and private agencies are joined, using experience gained in more normal times and cooperating with thd Governor's Commission on Unemployment, cordinates porn relief in Chicago. Another in our series of how cities are feeding their hungry.
Comparative tax rates of 290 cities, 1931
Authors: Rightor C. E.
Published: June 2007

Tax rates in 1931 still continued their upward climb, reports Mr. Rightor in this, the tenth, annual compilation and comparison of municipal tax burdens.
How much does a voter know?
Authors: Malan C. T.
Published: June 2007

Revealing a dangerous rift between a voter's knowledge and the real facts.
Present state of municipal credit
Authors: Shanks Sanders
Published: June 2007

Tax delinquencies and new administrative ideals combine to change the picture in the municipal bond market.
Radio in elections: Cincinnati tries it
Authors: Millard Walter J.
Published: June 2007

Tips from experience with the new arm for gathering in votes.
The new roof over German local government
Authors: Marx Fritz Morstein
Published: June 2007

Interference with local initiative likely result of developing doctrine of state dominance.
New York legislature again impedes a progressive governor
Authors: McInnes Russell
Published: June 2007

Less than half of Governor's recommendations receive support of both houses.
Hamilton county, Ohio, recounts some ballots
Authors: Bennett Emmett L.
Published: June 2007

Analysis of precinct errors strengthens case for a central count.
An election episode
Authors: Salter J. T.
Published: June 2007

The precinct “boas” in action.
Progress in county government: A bird's eye view
Authors: Jones Howard P.
Published: June 2007

“Dark continent” yields to onslaught of aroused taxpayers; county manager plan “makes good”.
State control in North Carolina
Authors: Wager Paul W.
Published: June 2007

A state steps into the breach when her counties find themselves unable to carry on.
The TVA ideals and program
Authors: Morgan Arthur E.
Published: June 2007

Greatest public undertaking of the country interpreted by its chief protagonist.
The place of leagues of municipalities in representing the public's interest in utility rates and policies
Authors: Healy Patrick
Published: June 2007

Establishment of permanent utilities bureau connected with state leagues suggested as means of protecting interests of the public.
Can government leadership cut the valuation tangle?
Authors: Bauer John
Published: June 2007

Federal and state cooperation, led by Federal Power Commission, suggested for determination of “fair value” as basis of rate adjustments.
Uncle sam or boss sam
Authors: Buttenheim Harold S.
Published: June 2007

Need the abolition of “ragged” individualism involve the abandonmont of rugged individualism by local governments?
Selling public enterprise to the public
Authors: Dimock Marshall E.
Published: June 2007

The public relations policies of public commercial undertakings found inadequate to keep consumer satisfied.
A scalable multi‐level preconditioner for matrix‐free µ‐finite element analysis of human bone structures
Authors: Arbenz Peter , van Lenthe G. Harry , Mennel Uche , Müller Ralph , Sala Marzio
Published: June 2007

The recent advances in microarchitectural bone imaging disclose the possibility to assess both the apparent density and the trabecular microstructure of intact bones in a single measurement. Coupling these imaging possibilities with microstructural finite element (µFE) analysis offers a powerful tool to improve bone stiffness and strength assessment for individual fracture risk prediction.

Many elements are needed to accurately represent the intricate microarchitectural structure of bone; hence, the resulting µFE models possess a very large number of degrees of freedom. In order to be solved quickly and reliably on state‐of‐the‐art parallel computers, the µFE analyses require advanced solution techniques. In this paper, we investigate the solution of the resulting systems of linear equations by the conjugate gradient algorithm, preconditioned by aggregation‐based multigrid methods. We introduce a variant of the preconditioner that does not need assembling the system matrix but uses element‐by‐element techniques to build the multilevel hierarchy. The preconditioner exploits the voxel approach that is common in bone structure analysis, and it has modest memory requirements, at the same time robust and scalable.

Using the proposed methods, we have solved in 12min a model of trabecular bone composed of 247 734 272 elements, yielding a matrix with 1 178 736 360 rows, using 1024 CRAY XT3 processors. The ability to solve, for the first time, large biomedical problems with over 1 billion degrees of freedom on a routine basis will help us improve our understanding of the influence of densitometric, morphological, and loading factors in the etiology of osteoporotic fractures such as commonly experienced at the hip, spine, and wrist. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of folic acid antagonists and the risk of colorectal cancer
Authors: Coogan Patricia F. , Rosenberg Lynn
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Since folate is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer, we hypothesized that folic acid antagonists might increase the risk. We used data from a population‐based case control study of medication use and colorectal cancer to evaluate the hypothesis.

Methods

Case patients with adenocarcinoma of the colon or rectum were ascertained from participating hospitals in Massachusetts and the Massachusetts cancer registry (MCR) from January 1, 2001, through November 30, 2004. Age‐, sex‐, and precinct‐matched control subjects were chosen from Massachusetts town lists. Information on folic acid antagonist use and other relevant data were obtained from 1809 cases and 1809 matched controls by telephone interview and by a self‐administered dietary questionnaire. We used logistic regression models to estimate odds ratios among 1229 case patients and 1165 control subjects who provided satisfactory dietary information and did not have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Results

The odds ratio for colorectal cancer among regular users of folate‐containing supplements was 0.7 (95%CI 0.6–0.9). The odds ratio for regular use of folic acid antagonists was 1.3 (95%CI 0.9–1.9). Contrary to expectation, the odds ratio was reduced in the highest category of alcohol consumption (OR = 0.5, 95%CI 0.2–1.2). The odds ratio was higher among users of drugs that inhibit dihydrofolate reductase (OR = 1.6, 95%CI 0.9–2.8) than drugs that work through other mechanisms (OR = 1.2, 95%CI 0.7–1.9).

Conclusions

Our data provide little support for the hypothesis that regular folic acid antagonist use increases the risk of colorectal cancer. However, there is a suggestion that dihydrofolate reductase inhibitors specifically may increase the risk. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR study and molecular dynamics simulations of optimized β‐hairpin fragments of protein G
Authors: Wei Yun , Huyghues‐Despointes Beatrice M. P. , Tsai Jerry , Scholtz J. Martin
Published: June 2007

The stability and structure of several β‐hairpin peptide variants derived from the C‐terminus of the B1 domain of protein G were investigated by a number of experimental and computational techniques. Our analysis shows that the structure and stability of this hairpin can be greatly affected by one or a few simple mutations. For example, removing an unfavorable charge near the N‐terminus of the peptide (Glu42 to Gln or Thr) or optimization of the N‐terminal charge–charge interactions (Gly41 to Lys) both stabilize the peptide, even in water. Furthermore, a simple replacement of a charged residue in the turn (Asp47 to Ala) changes the β‐turn conformation. Finally, we show that the effects of combining these single mutations are additive, suggesting that independent stabilizing interactions can be isolated and evaluated in a simple model system. Our results indicate that the structure and stability of this β‐hairpin peptide can be modulated in numerous ways and thus contributes toward a more complete understanding of this important model β‐hairpin as well as to the folding and stability of larger peptides and proteins. Proteins 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biological characterization and modes of action of temporins and bombinins H, multiple forms of short and mildly cationic anti‐microbial peptides from amphibian skin
Authors: Mangoni Maria Luisa , Marcellini H. G. Ludovica , Simmaco Maurizio
Published: June 2007

Genetically encoded cationic anti‐microbial peptides (AMPs) are essential components of the ancient and non‐specific innate immune system, which is the principal defence mechanism of all species of life, with the primary role to kill infectious microorganisms. Amphibian skin is one of the richest natural sources of such molecules, which are produced by holocrine‐type dermal glands and released upon stimulation. This review highlights the attractive and unique structural/functional properties of temporins and bombinins H, two families of short and mildly cationic peptides, isolated from the skin of frogs belonging to Rana and Bombina genera, respectively. Beside improving our knowledge on the role of AMPs in the regulation of the innate immunity, the biological significance of the existence of multiple forms of a prototypic peptide sequence within the same organism and the implication of short peptides in the endotoxin neutralization, these two classes of AMPs can be also considered as valid candidates for the design of novel anti‐infective and anti‐sepsis drugs. Copyright © 2007 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electron energy loss spectroscopy of defects in diamond
Authors: Bangert U. , Barnes R.
Published: June 2007

Localised energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) is carried out in order to extract information of the effect of extended defects on the electronic bandstructure in diamond. EELS is performed in a dedicated cold field emission scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM), equipped with a Gatan Enfina spectrometer, at high energy dispersions, allowing energy resolutions (FWHM of the zero loss peak) of around 0.3 eV to be achieved without monochromation, thus enabling low EELS to be carried out in the bandgap regime of diamond at high brightness. Experiments are carried out on single crystal CVD and brown and colourless natural diamonds. Experimental details and evaluation of spectra are discussed, and the effects of diffraction contrast on the EEL intensity in the vicinity of defects are critically examined. A general characteristic of extended defects in CVD diamonds appears to be a relative increase of the loss signal below 6 eV and a distinct feature at 6–7 eV, concomitant with sp2‐bonds. It emerges that these states do not reside at cores of single dislocations, but near dislocation arrangements, in particular at nodes. A stark phenomenon in brown natural diamond is the omni‐present increase in the EEL intensity below 6 eV over that of colourless samples, suggesting the existence of spatially dispersed, non‐dislocation related centres, with energies throughout the bandgap. Recent theoretical and experimental investigations have revealed strong links with vacancy clusters. In order to further support the vacancy cluster hypothesis high resolution electron transmission microscopy (HR TEM) imaging in combination with vacancy clusters simulations at high defocus values is performed. The simulations predict characteristic small‐scale contrast, which can be experimentally observed in brown, but not in colourless diamond. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth, morphology, and structural properties of group‐III‐nitride nanocolumns and nanodisks
Authors: Calleja E. , Ristić J. , Fernández‐Garrido S. , Cerutti L. , Sánchez‐García M. A. , Grandal J. , Trampert A. , Jahn U. , Sánchez G. , Griol A. , Sánchez B.
Published: June 2007

The growth conditions to achieve group‐III‐nitride nanocolumns and nanocolumnar heterostructures by plasma‐assisted molecular beam epitaxy are studied. The evolution of the nanocolumnar morphology with the growth conditions is determined for (Ga,Al)N and (In,Ga)N nanocolumns. The mechanisms behind the nanocolumnar growth under high N‐rich conditions are clarified in the sense that no seeding or catalysts are required, as it is the case in the vapour‐liquid‐solid model that applies to most nanocolumns grown by metal organic chemical vapour deposition, either with group‐III nitrides, II–VI or III–V compounds. Some examples of nanocolumnar heterostructures are given, like quantum disks and cylindrical nanocavities. Preliminary results on the growth of arrays of ordered GaN nanocolumns are reported. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Evaluation of the ergogenic potential of noni juice
Authors: Ma De‐lu , West Brett J. , Su Chen X. , Gao Jian‐hua , Liu Tin‐zhong , Liu Yu‐Wen
Published: June 2007

Morinda citrifolia (noni) fruit juice is an increasingly popular health food with many reported benefits, such as antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Traditionally, noni fruit was used by Polynesians to combat fatigue. Also, clinical studies have revealed that noni juice consumption improves quality of life scores related to physical functioning and energy levels. To further evaluate the ergogenic (antifatigue and endurance promoting) potential of noni juice, aged mice were pretreated orally with increasing doses (10, 20 and 40 mL/kg body weight) of Tahitian Noni® Juice (TNJ) and then compared with young and aged controls in the forced swim test and rotarod test. The average times of all TNJ dose groups were significantly longer than the aged controls in both the swim test (36% to 45%) and the rotarod test (59% to 128%), and were similar to those of the young controls. This demonstrates not only an improvement in endurance but also in balance and flexibility. These results confirm the reported use of noni juice to combat fatigue, improve endurance and increase overall physical performance. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuroprotective mechanisms of ayurvedic antidementia botanical Bacopa monniera
Authors: Dhanasekaran Muralikrishnan , Tharakan Binu , Holcomb Leigh A. , Hitt Angie R. , Young Keith A. , Manyam Bala V.
Published: June 2007

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive dementia. Bacopa monniera is described in the Ayurvedic Materia Medica, as a therapeutically useful herb for the treatment of cognitive impairment, thus supporting its possible anti‐Alzheimer's properties. Our studies have shown that Bacopa monniera reduces beta‐amyloid deposits in the brain of an Alzheimer's disease animal model. The objective of this study was to establish the presence of endogenous substances in Bacopa monniera extract (BmE) that will impact components of the oxidative stress cascade such as the reduction of divalent metals, scavenging of reactive oxygen species, alterations of lipoxygenase activity and hydrogen peroxide‐induced lipid peroxidation. The extract contained polyphenols and sulfhydryl contents suggestive of endogenous antioxidant activity. The results demonstrated that BmE reduced divalent metals, dose‐dependently scavenged reactive oxygen species, decreased the formation of lipid peroxides and inhibited lipoxygenase activity. These data combined with our previous studies that have shown that BmE treatment reduces beta‐amyloid levels in the brain of an Alzheimer's disease doubly transgenic mouse model of rapid amyloid deposition (PSAPP mice) suggesting mechanisms of action relevant to the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypoglycemic effects of Ganoderma applanatum and Collybia confluens exo‐polymers in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Yang Byung‐Keun , Jung Yu‐Sun , Song Chi‐Hyun
Published: June 2007

The hypoglycemic effects of Ganoderma applanatum exo‐polymer (GAE) and Collybia confluens exo‐polymer (CCE) produced by submerged mycelial cultures in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats were investigated. Hypoglycemic effects were achieved in both the GAE‐ and CCE‐treated groups by administration at a level of 100 mg/kg body weight (BW) daily for 3 weeks. The administration of GAE and CCE substantially reduced the plasma glucose levels by as much as 22.0% and 25.9%, respectively, when compared with the control group. The GAE and CCE also lowered the plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride levels by 20.3% and 22.5%, and by 22.7% and 25.5%, respectively. Furthermore, the activity of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) was decreased by 23.2% and 20.7% in the GAE‐treated group, and it was also reduced by 28.7% and 23.6% in the CCE‐treated group. The results strongly demonstrate the potential of GAE and CCE in combating diabetes in experimental animals. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testing a cumulus parametrization with a cumulus ensemble model in weak‐temperature‐gradient mode
Authors: Raymond D. J.
Published: June 2007

This paper prototypes a method for calibrating a cumulus parametrization against a cumulus ensemble model. The key to this technique is to run the cumulus model and the parametrization in identical ‘test cells’ that provide forcing typical of that seen over tropical oceans. In particular, the mean temperature profile is relaxed to a reference profile that is assumed to be characteristic of the environment of the convection. This is done by calculating the mean vertical velocity needed to balance heating due to convection, latent‐heat release, and radiation with adiabatic cooling. This ‘weak‐temperature‐gradient’ vertical‐velocity profile is then used to advect moisture vertically and, via mass continuity, through the sides of the test cell, entraining reference‐profile air as needed.

As an example, a toy cumulus parametrization used previously is altered to reproduce the dependence of rainfall rate on surface wind speed shown by the cumulus ensemble model. This alteration greatly changes the behaviour of simulated large‐scale disturbances in an aquaplanet equatorial beta‐plane model. In particular, increasing the slope of the curve of rainfall rate against wind speed results in the development of much greater synoptic‐scale variance. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
Static virtualization of C source code
Authors: Jansen Sam , McGregor Anthony
Published: June 2007

Many existing systems are written in C and are not re‐entrant or thread safe. Sometimes these systems are required in a context for which they were not first designed, possibly meaning they now need to be re‐entrant. This article introduces a program that filters C source code, modifying shared resources (the global variables) to make the code re‐entrant: ‘virtualizing’ the code. The code is then compiled as normal. This approach allows programmatic virtualization with little cost at runtime. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Schönwasserparkbrücke: Untersuchungen zur thermischen Beanspruchung von SPS beim Einbau bituminöser Fahrbahnbeläge
Authors: Friedrich Heinz
Published: June 2007

An der Schönwasserparkbrücke im Zuge der BAB 57 bei Krefeld erfolgte die Pilotanwendung des Sandwich‐Platten‐Systems (SPS) als Instandsetzungsmaßnahme im Straßenbrückenbau. Das gesamte Projekt wurde von der Bundesanstalt für Straßenwesen (BASt) fachtechnisch betreut. Im Rahmen dieses Beitrags werden die Untersuchungen zur thermischen Beanspruchung von SPS beim Einbau bituminöser Fahrbahnbeläge vorgestellt.
The tetrahydrobiopterin loading test in 36 patients with hyperphenylalaninaemia: Evaluation of response and subsequent treatment
Authors: Bóveda M. D. , Couce M. L. , Castiñeiras D. E. , Cocho J. A. , Pérez B. , Ugarte M. , Fraga J. M.
Published: June 2007

The response to tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) in patients with phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH, EC 1.14.16.1) deficiency (OMIM 261600) has been widely reported. Here we report results of the BH4 loading test (20 mg/kg per day) in a group of 36 patients with PAH deficiency and phenotype of mild hyperphenylalaninaemia (HPA), mild phenylketonuria (PKU) or classic PKU. The patients ranged from neonates aged 7–15 days, detected in the Newborn Screening Programme for PKU in the population of Galicia (NW Spain), to adults aged up to 32 years who had been receiving a low‐phenylalanine (Phe) diet for a period of years. Ten of the 36 patients showed a reduction of more than 30% in plasma Phe levels within 24 h of BH4 loading (ranging from 33.7% to 90.2%, mean 59.2%, SD 19.8%). All the patients with mild HPA (100%) showed a positive response; 57% of patients with mild PKU (4 of 7) showed a positive response. Of particular interest were positive responses in two patients with classic PKU, and in one patient with mutations of the phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene that have not to date been reported to be BH4‐responsive (p.S303A and p.G46S). BH4 treatment (5–8 mg/kg per day) was commenced in 9 of the 10 BH4‐responsive patients. The observed responses to treatment argue for application of the BH4 loading test in all patients with HPA or PKU, independently of genotype, phenotype or age.
Detection of transaldolase deficiency by quantification of novel seven‐carbon chain carbohydrate biomarkers in urine
Authors: Wamelink M. M. , Smith D. E. , Jansen E. E. , Verhoeven N. M. , Struys E. A. , Jakobs C.
Published: June 2007

Transaldolase deficiency, a recently discovered disorder of carbohydrate metabolism with multisystem involvement, has been diagnosed in 6 patients. Affected patients have abnormal concentrations of polyols in body fluids and in all patients we have previously found increased amounts of a seven‐carbon chain carbohydrate which we suspected of being sedoheptulose. We report development of a liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method for quantitation of the seven‐carbon carbohydrates sedoheptulose and mannoheptulose in urine. Additionally, other seven‐carbon chain carbohydrates were characterized in urine, including sedoheptitol, perseitol and sedoheptulose 7‐phosphate. Transaldolase‐deficient patients had significantly increased urinary sedoheptulose and sedoheptulose 7‐phosphate, associated with subtle elevations of mannoheptulose, sedoheptitol and perseitol. Our findings reveal novel urinary biomarkers for identification of transaldolase deficiency.
Effect of testosterone metabolites on ABC half‐transporter relative gene expression in X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Petroni A. , Cappa M. , Carissimi R. , Blasevich M. , Uziel G.
Published: June 2007

X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X‐ALD) is an inherited neurodegenerative disorder associated with reduced very long‐chain fatty acid β‐oxidation, mainly affecting the nervous system, the adrenal cortex and the testes. The clinical manifestations of hypogonadism, alopecia and the impairment of the enzyme 5α‐reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, clearly point to an involvement of androgens in this pathology. The disease is characterized by mutations in the ABCD1 gene, which codes for the peroxisomal ABC half‐transporter ALDP, and by a broad range of clinical manifestations. The altered function of ALDP can be compensated by the overexpression of proteins belonging to the same family of ABC half‐transporters. A promising therapeutic approach is represented by the activation of these proteins by specific agonists. In this study we evaluated the effect of the testosterone metabolite dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 5α‐androstan‐3α,17β‐diol (3α‐diol) on the expression of the ABC half‐transporters encoded by the ABCD2 and ABCD3 genes, in fibroblasts drawn from controls and from two affected brothers. The two patients presented the same mutation in exon 9 but had different clinical manifestations, one patient being asymptomatic and the second one severely affected. When the cells were stimulated with testosterone metabolites, only the severely affected patient showed a significant increase in ABCD2 mRNA levels, while the ABCD3 expression remained unchanged in both patients.
Industrial validation of fourier transform infrared trans and lodine value analyses of fats and oils
Authors: Sedman J. , van de Voort F. R. , Ismail A. A. , Maes P.
Published: June 2007

A Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) edible oil analysis package designed to simultaneously analyze for trans content, cis content, iodine value (IV), and saponification number (SN) of neat fats and oils by using calibrations based on pure triglycerides and derived by application of partial‐least‐squares (PLS) regression was assessed and validated. More than 100 hydrogenated rapeseed and soybean samples were analyzed by using the edible oil analysis package as well as the newly proposed modification of the AOCS IR trans method with trielaidin in a trans‐free oil as a basis for calibration. In addition, ∼1/3 of the samples were subsequently reanalyzed by gas chromatography (GC) for IV and trans content. The PLS approach predicted somewhat higher trans values than the modified AOCS IR method, which was traced to a combination of the inclusion of trilinolelaidin in the calibration set and the effects of baseline fluctuations. Eliminating trilinolelaidin from the triglyceride standards and the use of second‐derivative spectra to remove baseline fluctuations produced excellent concurrence between the PLS and modified AOCS IR methods (mean difference of 0.61% trans). Excellent internal consistency was obtained between the IV and cis and trans data provided by the edible oil analysis package, and the relationship was close to that theoretically expected [IV=0.86 (cis + trans)]. The IV data calculated for the GC‐analyzed samples matched the PLS IV predictions within 1 IV unit. The trans results obtained by both IR methods were linearly related to the GC data; however, as is commonly observed, the GC values were significantly lower than the IR values, the GC and IR data being related by a slope factor of ∼0.88, with an SD of ∼0.80. The concurrence between the trans data obtained by the two FTIR methods, and between the FTIR and GC‐IV data, as well as the internal consistency of the IV, cis and trans FTIR predictions, provides strong experimental evidence that the edible oil analytical package measures all three variables accurately.