bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of an intravenous single dose of ketamine on postoperative pain in tonsillectomy patients
Authors: DA CONCEIÇÃO MARIO JOSE , BRUGGEMANN DA CONCEIÇÃO DIOGO , CARNEIRO LEÃO CYNTHIA
Published: May 2006

Background:  Tonsillectomy has a high incidence of postoperative pain. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the use of low‐dose IV ketamine, before the start of surgery or after the end of the operation, would lead to significantly improved pain control after tonsillectomy in pediatric patients.

Methods:  Ninety children, 5–7 years old, scheduled for elective tonsillectomy were randomly assigned to one of three groups of 30 patients each; groups I, II and III. Patients in group I received no ketamine. Patients in group II received 0.5 mg·kg−1 of ketamine before the surgical start and for group III the same dose was given after the operation ended. Postoperative pain was scored by the Oucher scale. Systolic and diastolic pressures and heart rate were recorded perioperatively. Unwanted side effects were recorded by the ward staff personnel on a 24‐h study‐specific questionnaire. Statistical tests consisted of Student's t‐test, chi‐square and anova as appropriated.

Results:  The number of patients complaining of pain was greater in group I compared with patients in groups II and III with a significative statistical difference (P < 0.05). The degree of postoperative pain was significantly higher in patients of group I compared with groups II and III (P < 0.05). Eight patients in group I needed rescue doses of morphine, three for group II and none for group III. In group I, three of eight patients required two doses of morphine during the first 249h postoperatively. No unwanted side effects were noted.

Conclusions:  The use of a single small dose of ketamine in a pediatric population undergoing tonsillectomy could reduce the frequency or even avoid the use of rescue analgesia in the postoperative period independent of whether used before or after the surgical procedure.
A Cautionary Note on Estimating the Standard Error of the Gini Index of Inequality: Comment
Authors: Giles David E. A.
Published: May 2006

We observe that care must be taken when using a regression‐based approach to construct a standard error for the Gini coefficient.
Health Care Need: Three Interpretations
Authors: HASMAN ANDREAS , HOPE TONY , ØSTERDAL LARS PETER
Published: May 2006

abstract  The argument that scarce health care resources should be distributed so that patients in ‘need’ are given priority for treatment is rarely contested. In this paper, we argue that if need is to play a significant role in distributive decisions it is crucial that what is meant by need can be precisely articulated. Following a discussion of the general features of health care need, we propose three principal interpretations of need, each of which focuses on separate intuitions. Although this account may not be a completely exhaustive reflection of what people mean when they refer to need, the three interpretations provide a starting‐point for further debate of what the concept means in its specific application. We discuss combined interpretations, the meaning of grading needs, and compare needs‐based priority setting to social welfare maximisation.
‘Infrastructures of Responsibility’: the Moral Tasks of Institutions
Authors: WILLIAMS GARRATH
Published: May 2006

abstract  The members of any functioning modern society live their lives amid complex networks of overlapping institutions. Apart from the major political institutions of law and government, however, much normative political theory seems to regard this institutional fabric as largely a pragmatic convenience. This paper contests this assumption by reflecting on how institutions both constrain and enable spheres of effective action and responsibility. In this way a society's institutional fabric constitutes, in Samuel Scheffler's phrase, an infrastructure of responsibility.

The paper discusses three key normative aspects of this infrastructure. First, institutions define roles and rules, alongside forms of sanction and encouragement, so as to realise limited forms of practical, normative agreement. Second, institutions allocate and adjudicate distinct responsibilities. This creates separate spheres of initiative, ensuring responsibilities are fulfilled and providing for structured disagreement and change. Third, because we move through a plurality of institutions and associations, we experience varying responsibilities and forms of recognition. Individual identities thus depend on several different forms of recognition, and are well placed to resist totalising or fundamentalist temptations. In sum, the paper argues that a liberal institutional fabric provides essential moral stability, though not an undesirable fixity. By containing the fragility and dangers of individual moral judgment, our institutional fabric allows such judgment to play a valuable role in human affairs.
Estimating the body mass of extinct ungulates: a study on the use of multiple regression
Authors: Mendoza M. , Janis C. M. , Palmqvist P.
Published: May 2006

The correlation between body mass and both skeletal and dental measures in living mammals has enabled paleontologists to obtain reliable estimates of body size for extinct species, usually using log‐transformed bivariate least‐squares regression equations. Multiple regression, however, has rarely been used for estimating the mass of extinct species, although this technique can clearly improve the predictive equations compared with those adjusted by simple regression. However, the use of multiple regression is problematical, because even those functions explaining a high percentage of the variance of the dependent variable (i.e. body mass) can show a rather limited predictive power. After analyzing which factors determine the predictive ability of multiple regression equations, we propose a new set of algorithms that allow the estimation of the body mass of extinct ungulates. These algorithms are finally applied to three Miocene ungulate species,Dinohippus leidyanus,Stenomylus hitchcockiandAletomeryx scotti.
Preferred alkaline reduction‐clearing conditions for use with dyed Ingeo poly(lactic acid) fibres
Authors: Avinc Ozan , Bone John , Owens Huw , Phillips Duncan , Wilding Mike
Published: May 2006

A short study has been conducted to examine the efficiency of different alkaline reduction‐clearing conditions on Ingeo [poly(lactic acid)] fibres, dyed with disperse dyes. The results indicate that the preferred conditions are 15 min at 60 °C in the presence of 2 g/l sodium carbonate and 2 g/l ‘hydros’, conditions which avoid any significant change of shade by colour loss and lead to optimised wash fastness.
Dimensions of Restorative Justice
Authors: Roche Declan
Published: May 2006

Restorative justice proponents tend to focus their attention on criminal justice initiatives in a small number of developed countries, but restorative processes (which encourage citizens to negotiate among themselves, rather than rely on professionals to adjudicate), and restorative values (which emphasize the importance of repairing and preventing harm), can be found across a wide range of regulatory fields. Teachers, social workers, corporate regulators, civil mediators, members of truth commissions, diplomats, and peacekeepers all—at least some of the time—practice a variety of restorative justice. Consideration of these often‐neglected examples can help refine current restorative justice theory and practice, which in turn has insights to offer practitioners and researchers in these fields.
Price Premium and Foreclosure Risk
Authors: Ong Seow Eng , Neo Poh Har , Spieler Andrew C.
Published: May 2006

Many previous studies identify loan, property, borrower and environmental factors that impact the probability of foreclosure. Implicit in these studies is the assumption that the property was purchased at fair value. We question this assumption based on several empirical findings regarding property value uncertainty. In contrast to previous research, we explicitly quantify the price premium from a hedonic pricing model. Using a comprehensive database of real estate transactions in Singapore during 1989–2000, we document a price premium associated with properties that are subsequently foreclosed based on actual sales transactions. In addition, we find that the premium paid at purchase significantly increases the probability of foreclosure. These results are robust and continue to hold after controlling for other property‐specific factors, time‐varying macroeconomic conditions, alternative model specifications and definitions of price premium.
Radio views of cosmic reionization
Authors: Valdés M. , Ciardi B. , Ferrara A. , Johnston-Hollitt M. , Röttgering H.
Published: May 2006

We use numerical simulations of cosmic reionization and radiative processes related to the H i 21-cm emission line to produce synthetic radio maps as seen by next-generation telescopes that will operate at low radio frequencies (e.g. the Low Frequency Array, LOFAR). Two different scenarios, in which the end of reionization occurs early (z ≈ 13) or late (z ≈ 8) depending on the initial mass function (IMF) of the first stars and ionizing photon escape fraction, have been explored. For each of these models we produce synthetic H i 21-cm emission maps by convolving the simulation outputs with the provisional LOFAR sampling function in the frequency range 76–140 MHz. If reionization occurs late, LOFAR will be able to detect individual H i structures on arcmin scales, emitting at a brightness temperature of ≈35 mK as a 3σ signal in about 1000 h of observing time. In the case of early reionization, the detection would be unlikely, due to decreased sensitivity and increased sky temperatures. These results assume that ionospheric, interference and foreground issues are fully under control.
Metaontology
Authors: Eklund Matti
Published: May 2006

Metaontology – the study of the nature of ontological issues – has flourished in recent years. The focus of this summary will be on some views and arguments that are central to today’s debate. One theme will be that of how seriously to take ontology: whether there is reason to take a skeptical or deflationary attitude toward ontological claims, as theorists like Rudolf Carnap, Hilary Putnam, and Eli Hirsch in different ways have urged. The other theme will be that of the viability of the Fregean and Quinean approaches to ontology that have been and still are central to analytic philosophy.
Current and future approaches using genetically modified mice in endocrine research
Authors: Davey Rachel A. , MacLean Helen E.
Published: May 2006

Genetically modified mouse models have been used widely to advance our knowledge in the field of endocrinology and metabolism. A number of different approaches to generate genetically modified mice are now available, which provide the power to analyze the role of individual proteins in vivo. However, there are a number of points to be considered in the use and interpretation of these models. This review discusses the advantages and disadvantages involved in the generation and use of different genetically modified mouse models in endocrine research, including conventional techniques (e.g., overexpression, knockout, and knock-in models), tissue- and/or time-specific deletion of target genes [e.g., Cre- loxP and short interfering (si)RNA transgenic approaches], and gene-trap approaches to undertake functional genomics. This review also highlights the many factors that should be considered when assessing the phenotype of these mouse models, many of which are relevant to all murine physiological studies. These approaches are a powerful means by which to dissect the function of genes and are revolutionizing our understanding of endocrine physiology and metabolism.
Cl−channels of the distal nephron
Authors: Palmer Lawrence G. , Frindt Gustavo
Published: May 2006

Cl−currents were observed under whole cell clamp conditions in cells of the rat cortical collecting duct (CCD), connecting tubule (CNT), and thick ascending limb of Henle's loop (TALH). These currents were much larger in intercalated cells compared with principal cells of the CCD and were also larger in the TALH and in the CNT compared with the CCD. The conductance had no strong voltage dependence, and steady-state currents were similar in inward and outward directions with similar Cl−concentrations on both sides of the membrane. Current transients were observed, particularly at low Cl−concentrations, which could be explained by solute depletion and concentration in fluid layers next to the membrane. The currents had a remarkable selectivity among anions. Among halides, Br−and F−conductances were only 15% of that of Cl−, and I−conductance was immeasurably small. SCN−and OCN−conductances were ∼50%, and aspartate, glutamate, and methanesulfonate conductance was ∼5% that of Cl−. No conductance could be measured for any other anion tested, including NO3−, HCO3−, formate, acetate, or isethionate; NO3−and I−appeared to block the channels weakly. Conductances were diminished by lowering the extracellular pH to 6.4. The properties of the conductance fit best with those of the cloned renal anion channel ClC-K2 and likely reflect the basolateral Cl−conductances of the cells of these nephron segments.
Identification of Y589 and Y599 in the juxtamembrane domain of Flt3 as ligand-induced autophosphorylation sites involved in binding of Src family kinases and the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2
Authors: Heiss Elke , Masson Kristina , Sundberg Christina , Pedersen Malin , Sun Jianmin , Bengtsson Susanne , Rönnstrand Lars
Published: May 2006

Early signal relay steps upon ligand binding to the receptor tyrosine kinase Flt3 (ie, sites of Flt3 autophosphorylation and subsequent docking partners) are mainly unresolved. By immunoprecipitation of specific tryptic peptides contained in the juxtamembrane region of human Flt3 and subsequent radiosequencing, we identified the tyrosine residues 572, 589, 591, and 599 as in vivo autophosphorylation sites. Focusing on Y589 and Y599, we examined Flt3 ligand (FL)-mediated responses in wild-type-Flt3-(WT-Flt3-), Y589F-Flt3-, and Y599F-Flt3-expressing 32D cells. Compared with WT-Flt3-32D cells upon ligand stimulation, 32D-Y589F-Flt3 showed enhanced Erk activation and proliferation/survival, whereas 32D-Y599F-Flt3 cells hereby displayed substantially diminished responses. Both pY589 and pY599 were identified as association sites for signal relay molecules including Src family kinases and SHP2. Consistently, 32D-Y589F-Flt3 and 32D-Y599F-Flt3 showed decreased FL-triggered activation of Src family kinases. Interference with the Src-dependent negative regulation of Flt3 signaling may account for the enhanced mitogenic response of Y589F-Flt3. Y599 was additionally found to interact with the protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2 in a phosphorylation-dependent manner. As Y599F-Flt3-32D was unable to associate with and to phosphorylate SHP2 and since silencing of SHP2 in WT-Flt3-expressing cells mimicked the Y599F-Flt3 phenotype, we hypothesize that recruitment of SHP2 to pY599 contributes to FL-mediated Erk activation and proliferation.
Markers of exacerbation severity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Franciosi Luigi G , Page Clive P , Celli Bartolome R , Cazzola Mario , Walker Michael J , Danhof Meindert , Rabe Klaus F , Pasqua E Della Oscar
Published: May 2006

Background

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can experience 'exacerbations' of their conditions. An exacerbation is an event defined in terms of subjective descriptors or symptoms, namely dyspnoea, cough and sputum that worsen sufficiently to warrant a change in medical management. There is a need for reliable markers that reflect the pathological mechanisms that underlie exacerbation severity and that can be used as a surrogate to assess treatment effects in clinical studies. Little is known as to how existing study variables and suggested markers change in both the stable and exacerbation phases of COPD. In an attempt to find the best surrogates for exacerbations, we have reviewed the literature to identify which of these markers change in a consistent manner with the severity of the exacerbation event.

Methods

We have searched standard databases between 1966 to July 2004 using major keywords and terms. Studies that provided demographics, spirometry, potential markers, and clear eligibility criteria were included in this study. Central tendencies and dispersions for all the variables and markers reported and collected by us were first tabulated according to sample size and ATS/ERS 2004 Exacerbation Severity Levels I to III criteria. Due to the possible similarity of patients in Levels II and III, the data was also redefined into categories of exacerbations, namely out-patient (Level I) and in-patient (Levels II & III combined). For both approaches, we performed a fixed effect meta-analysis on each of the reported variables.

Results

We included a total of 268 studies reported between 1979 to July 2004. These studies investigated 142,407 patients with COPD. Arterial carbon dioxide tension and breathing rate were statistically different between all levels of exacerbation severity and between in out- and in-patient settings. Most other measures showed weak relationships with either level or setting, or they had insufficient data to permit meta-analysis.

Conclusion

Arterial carbon dioxide and breathing rate varied in a consistent manner with exacerbation severity and patient setting. Many other measures showed weak correlations that should be further explored in future longitudinal studies or assessed using suggested mathematical modelling techniques.
Cross-species hybridizations on a multi-species cDNA microarray to identify evolutionarily conserved genes expressed in oocytes
Authors: Vallée Maud , Robert Claude , Méthot Steve , Palin Marie-France , Sirard Marc-André
Published: May 2006

Background

Comparative genomic analysis using cDNA microarray is a new approach and a useful tool to identify important genetic sequences or genes that are conserved throughout evolution. Identification of these conserved sequences will help elucidate important molecular mechanisms or pathways common to many species. For example, the stockpiled transcripts in the oocyte necessary for successful fertilization and early embryonic development still remain relatively unknown. The objective of this study was to identify genes expressed in oocytes and conserved in three evolutionarily distant species.

Results

In this study we report the construction of a multi-species cDNA microarray containing 3,456 transcripts from three distinct oocyte-libraries from bovine, mouse and Xenopus laevis. Following the cross-species hybridizations, data analysis revealed that 1,541 positive hybridization signals were generated by oocytes of all three species, and 268 of these are preferentially expressed in the oocyte. Data reproducibility analyses comparing same-species to cross-species hybridization indicates that cross-species hybridizations are highly reproducible, thus increasing the confidence level in their specificity. A validation by RT-PCR using gene- and species-specific primers confirmed that cross-species hybridization allows the production of specific and reliable data. Finally, a second validation step through gene-specific microarray hybridizations further supported the validity of our cross-species microarray results. Results from these cross-species hybridizations on our multi-species cDNA microarray revealed that SMFN (Small fragment nuclease), Spin (Spindlin), and PRMT1 (Protein arginine methyltransferase 1) are transcripts present in oocytes and conserved in three evolutionarily distant species.

Conclusion

Cross-species hybridization using a multi-species cDNA microarray is a powerful tool for the discovery of genes involved in evolutionarily conserved molecular mechanisms. The present study identified conserved genes in the oocytes of three distant species that will help understand the unique role of maternal transcripts in early embryonic development.
Leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata in association with Currarino syndrome?
Authors: Nappi Carmine , Sardo Attilio Di Spiezio , Mandato Vincenzo Dario , Bifulco Giuseppe , Merello Elisa , Savanelli Antonio , Mignogna Chiara , Capra Valeria , Guida Maurizio
Published: May 2006

Background

Leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD) is a rare disease in which multiple smooth muscle or smooth muscle-like nodules develop subperitoneally in any part of the abdominal cavity. No reports of multiple congenital malformations associated with LPD have been found in the English literature.

Case presentation

A 27 year-old patient referred to our gynaecology unit for pelvic pain, amenorrhoea, stress incontinence, chronic constipation and recurrent intestinal and urinary infections. Multiple congenital malformations had previously been diagnosed. Most of these had required surgical treatment in her early life: anorectal malformation with rectovestibular fistula, ectopic right ureteral orifice, megadolichoureter and hemisacrum.

An ultrasound scan and computed tomography performed in our department showed an irregular, polylobate, complex 20 cm mass originating from the right pelvis that reached the right hypochondrium and the epigastrium. The patient underwent laparotomy. The three largest abdominal-pelvic masses and multiple independent nodules within the peritoneum were progressively removed. The histological diagnosis was of LPD.

Conclusion

The case we report is distinctive in that a rare acquired disease, LPD, coexists with multiple congenital malformations recalling a particular subgroup of caudal regression syndrome: the Currarino syndrome.
IL-5-mediated eosinophil survival requires inhibition of GSK-3 and correlates with β-catenin relocalization
Authors: Rosas Marcela , Dijkers Pascale F , Lindemans Caroline L , Lammers Jan-Willem J , Koenderman Leo , Coffer Paul J
Published: May 2006

Interleukin (IL)-5 is a hematopoietic cytokine able to regulate differentiation, survival, and effector functions of eosinophils. It binds specifically to its receptor, which is composed of a cytokine-specific α-chain and a β-chain shared with the receptors for IL-3 and the granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor. The molecular mechanisms by which IL-5 modulates eosinophil survival remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that IL-5 withdrawal induces eosinophil apoptosis through a mitochondria-dependent pathway, independently of Fas receptor activation. The lipid kinase phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase plays a crucial role in the maintenance of eosinophil survival, as inhibition of its activity results in apoptosis. IL-5 induces phosphorylation and thus, inhibition of the Forkhead transcription factor FOXO3a and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK-3). We analyzed expression of FOXO3a-dependent transcriptional targets: Fas ligand or Bim (a proapoptotic Bcl-2 family member), but neither was detected in apoptotic eosinophils. We further show that GSK-3 is activated after IL-5 withdrawal, and inhibition of its activity rescues eosinophils from apoptosis. β-catenin, a direct GSK-3 substrate, is present in the nucleus of IL-5-stimulated eosinophils, but it is translocated to the plasma membrane in the absence of cytokine in a GSK-3-dependent manner. This is the first report describing a potential role for GSK-3 and β-catenin in regulating eosinophil survival and suggests a novel mechanism by which IL-5 inhibits the constitutive apoptotic program in these cells.
A survey of pharmacy assistants in Grampian on prevention of HIV and hepatitis B and C
Authors: Watson Lorna , Bond Christine , Gault Caroline
Published: May 2006

Objective

Prevention of infection with blood-borne pathogens (BBPs) HIV and hepatitis B and C, remains a major public health challenge. The aim of this study was to assess the activity, knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacy assistants in Grampian in prevention of HIV and hepatitis B and C.

Method

A cross-sectional postal questionnaire survey of community pharmacy assistants. Outcome measures were practice, knowledge and barriers to practice.

Setting

Grampian, a mixed urban-rural health board area in North-East Scotland with a population of 532 432.

Key findings

Forty out of 78 (51%) assistants responded. Many were based in pharmacies that provided services for drug misusers, and/or stocked condoms. Twenty-four assistants stated that the pharmacies stocked extra-strong condoms but none was aware of dental dams being stocked. Two-thirds had leaflets relating to safer sex, HIV or hepatitis. Twenty assistants were confident that they could give advice on safer sex. Knowledge of BBPs and the infectivity of hepatitis B was relatively low. Few assistants were aware of recommendations for hepatitis B vaccination. The majority felt that in the future pharmacy assistants could have a greater role in the prevention of these infections. Principal barriers to preventive activity were described as lack of a private area, lack of training and time pressure.

Conclusions

Pharmacy assistants have the potential to be a focus for advice and simple information relating to prevention of HIV and hepatitis B and C. Resources are needed to address the current barriers identified.
Potential role of the community liaison pharmacist: stakeholder views
Authors: Vuong Tam , Marriott Jennifer L
Published: May 2006

Objective

To determine the views of stakeholders regarding a community liaison pharmacy (CLP) service and to obtain their opinion about the risk of medication misadventure for patients in the immediate post-discharge period.

Setting

The study was conducted with medical practitioners, community nurses, community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, consumers and hospital administration from a division of general practice in Victoria, Australia.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted to address areas of: the discharge process, liaison between primary and secondary healthcare sectors and views of a CLP. A focus group was conducted with key informants from the interviews to explore the emergent themes.

Key findings

Themes from 23 interviews and the focus group explored the difficulties experienced with the discharge process and communication at the primary and secondary interface. Participants discussed the types of problems that patients face after hospital discharge and those potentially at risk of medication misadventure. The role of a liaison pharmacist was defined and logistics of implementation of a CLP service and ameliorable barriers were identified. Information from the focus group was utilised to develop a medication misadventure risk assessment tool for patients returning to community care from hospital.

Conclusion

Problems with the discharge process and communication at the primary and secondary interface often result in deficiencies in the continuum of care between hospital and the community. Most participants recognised the potential benefits of a CLP service that may bridge the gap in communications between the healthcare settings as well as educating and supporting some patients regarding their medications shortly following discharge from hospital.
TheDrosophilaphosphatidylinositol transfer protein encoded byvibratoris essential to maintain cleavage-furrow ingression in cytokinesis
Authors: Gatt Melanie K. , Glover David M.
Published: May 2006

Cytokinesis requires the coordination of cytoskeletal and plasma membrane dynamics. A role for phosphatidylinositol lipids has been proposed for the successful completion of cytokinesis but this is still poorly characterised. Here, we show mutants of the gene vibrator, previously found to encode the Drosophila phosphatidylinositol transfer protein, produce multinucleate cells indicative of cytokinesis failure in male meiosis. Examination of fixed preparations of mutant spermatocytes showed contractile rings of anillin and actin that were of normal appearance at early stages but were larger and less well organised at later stages of cytokinesis than in wild-type cells. Time-lapse imaging revealed sequential defects in cytokinesis of vibrator spermatocytes. In cells that fail cytokinesis, central spindle formation occurred correctly, but furrow ingression was delayed and the central spindle did not become compressed to the extent seen in wild-type cells. Cells then stalled at this point before the apparent connection between the constricted cytoskeleton and the plasma membrane was lost; the furrow then underwent elastic regression. We discuss these defects in relation to multiple functions of phosphoinositol lipids in regulating actin dynamics and membrane synthesis.
Catalytic Beckmann Rearrangement of Oximes in Homogeneous Liquid Phase
Authors: Izumi Yusuke
Published: May 2006

Oximes such as cyclohexanone oxime and benzaldehyde oxime were catalytically transformed into the corresponding lactams in N,N-dimethylformamide solutions of alkylating reagents such as trialkyloxonium salts. Catalyst turnover attained 43 on the basis of the acid used to obtain alkylating reagent. O-Alkyl-N,N-dimethylformamidinium salt was suggested to be a catalyst species.
A Novel Electrochemical Quantification Method for Trans/Cis Interconversion of Azo Compounds in a Solid Monolayer Film
Authors: Liu Zhong-Fan , Hashimoto Kazuhiko , Fujishima Akira
Published: May 2006

A direct electrochemical quantification method for the trans/cis interconversion reaction of some azobenzene derivatives in a solid monolayer film was developed, on the basis of the photoelectrochemical hybrid phenomenon that we found.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Novel Thromboxane A2 Receptor Antagonists via Stereoselective 1-Azadiene Isomerization
Authors: Sugaya Toru , Kato Nobuyuki , Tomioka Shinji , Tamaki Kentaro
Published: May 2006

Novel non-prostanoid thromboxane A2 receptor antagonists were synthesized stereoselectively using the transformation of (E,Z)-1-azadiene intermediates to the only (E) isomers under acidic conditions.
Methyl Group Can Stabilize Carbocations
Authors: Oki Michinori , Taguchi Yasushi , Toyota Shinji , Yonemoto Katsumi , Yamamoto Gaku
Published: May 2006

Whereas diazotization of ap-2-(1,4-dimethyl-9-triptycyl)-2-methylpropylamine in benzene afforded expected hydrocarbons in addition to a small amount of 2-(1,4-dimethyl-9-triptycyl)-2-methylpropyl acetate, its sc-isomer gave 1,1,3-trimethyl-2,3,7,11b-tetrahydro-7,11b-o-benzeno-1H-benzo[de]anthracene, and a larger amount of the acetate. The results provide unambiguous evidence that the 1-methyl group stabilizes the cation formed by diazotization.
A New Fused-Ring Conjugated Polymer. Di(polydiacetylene)
Authors: Okada Shuji , Matsuda Hiro , Masaki Atsushi , Nakanishi Hachiro , Hayamizu Kikuko
Published: May 2006

A new conjugated polymer which has π-conjugation between two polydiacetylene backbones was synthesized by two-step solid-state polymerization of a dialkyltetraacetylene compound. This polymer is considered to be a fused-ring polymer of conjugated 10π-electron system.
Electrochemical Property and Formation of the Cation Radical and Dication of Dinaphtho[1,8-b,c]-1,5-dithiocin
Authors: Fujihara Hisashi , Chiu Jer-Jye , Furukawa Naomichi
Published: May 2006

A new symmetrical dithio peri-bridged naphthalene, dinaphtho[l,8-b,c]-1,5-dithiocin (1) has been synthesized. The cyclic voltammogram of 1 showed one reversible oxidation peak. ESR spectrum of the coned H2SO4 solution of 1 showed the formation of the cation radical. The formation of the dication of 1 was observed in the reaction of the corresponding monosulfoxide with concd D2SO4 by both high-field 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy.
Synthesis of a Widely Conjugated, Substituted Polyacetylene from 1-t-Butyldiphenylsilyl-1,3-butadiyne
Authors: Yamaguchi Masahiko , Torisu Kazuhiko , Hiraki Ken-ichi , Minami Toru
Published: May 2006

Polymerization of 1-t-butyldiphenylsilyl-1,3-butadiyne with MoCl5-Et3SiH catalyst gives a novel widely conjugated polyacetylene. An appropriate selection of the silyl group and catalyst is essential.
Modified Cyclodextrin System for Controlling Photosensitized Reduction of Viologen by Guests
Authors: Du Yi-qun , Harada Takaoki , Nakamura Asao , Ueno Akihiko , Toda Fujio
Published: May 2006

The invesitigation of photosensitized reduction of viologen-appended β-cyclodextrin (CDxEV2+) using Rose Bengal as a sentizer has revealed that the reduction of the viologen moiety of CDxEV2+ is remarkably affected by the presence of guests. The spatial position of the viologen moiety in CDxEV2+, which can be changed by guest binding, is suggested to be the factor that governs the reduction.
Preparation of a Thermally Stable Polymer Solid Electrolyte Using Poly(parabanic acid) Matrix
Authors: Kanbara Takaki , Inami Minoru , Yamamoto Takakazu , Nishikata Atsushi , Tsuru Toru
Published: May 2006

Poly(parabanic acid) (PPA) forms transparent homogeneous composites with lithium and sodium salt (LiClO4, LiBF4, Li[CF3SO3], NaClO4, and NaBF4) up to 30–60 wt% of the salt in the composite. The composites show electrical conductivity of 1.7 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 50 wt% of Li[CF3SO3] at 20 °C. The composites are thermally stable up to about 180 °C and temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity obeys Arrhenius type equation in most cases with activation energy of 0.6–1.0 eV.
Synthesis and Lithiation of Monosilylated 1,3,5,7-Octatetrayne
Authors: Yamaguchi Masahiko , Torisu Kazuhiko , Nakamura Shigeo , Minami Toru
Published: May 2006

Unstable monosilylated 1,3,5,7-octatetrayne was synthesized and lithiated with butyllithium. The resulted lithium acetylide added to aldehydes and a ketone giving tetraynols in high yields.
C-1,C-2 Stereospecific Rearrangements of Aldohexoses by Calcium Ion in Basic Solution
Authors: Yanagihara Ryoji , Osanai Shuichi , Yoshikawa Sadao
Published: May 2006

In aqueous or methanolic solution containing Ca2+ and hydroxide ion, aldoses are rapidly epimerized at C-2. This reaction involves C-1,C-2 stereospecific rearrangement. [2-13C]-D-Mannose is formed from [1-13C]-D-glucose by this reaction.
Substituent Effect on the Gas Phase Basicity of α,α,α-Trifluoroacetophenone. Intrinsic Nature of Resonance Demand
Authors: Mishima Masaaki , Tsuno Yuho , Fujio Mizue
Published: May 2006

Gas-phase basicities (GB) of α,α,α-trifluoroacetophenones were determined by means of the pulsed ICR spectrometer. The substituent effect on the GB was correlated in terms of the LArSR Eq. with an r of 1.20. The r values for stabilities of a series of benzylic carbocation systems, ArC+(R1)R2, could be related to electronic effects of R1 and R2.
Heterometallic Zn2La and ZnLu Complexes Formed by Site-selective Transmetalation of a Dimeric Homotrinuclear Zinc(II) Complex
Authors: Akine Shigehisa , Taniguchi Takanori , Nabeshima Tatsuya
Published: May 2006

Transmetalation of a dimeric homotrinuclear zinc(II) complex [(3-MeOsalamo)2Zn3] with Lu3+ and La3+ afforded heterometallic dinuclear [(3-MeOsalamo)ZnLu]3+ and trinuclear [(3-MeOsalamo)2Zn2La]3+ complexes, respectively, whose structures were determined by X-ray crystallography. The transmetalation process was investigated by 1H NMR titrations.
Metric Projection onto a Closed Set: Necessary and Sufficient Conditions for the Global Minimum
Authors: Mohebi Hossein , Rubinov Alexander
Published: May 2006

Necessary and sufficient conditions for a local minimum form a well-developed chapter of optimization theory. Determination of such conditions for the global minimum is a challenging problem. Useful conditions are currently known only for a few classes of nonconvex optimization problems. It is important to find different classes of problems for which the required conditions can be obtained. In this paper we examine one of these classes: the minimization of the distance to an arbitrary closed set in a class of ordered normed spaces. We use the structure of the objective function in order to present necessary and sufficient conditions that give a clear understanding of the structure of a global minimizer and can be easily verified for some problems under consideration.
Co-Contraction and Passive Forces Facilitate Load Compensation of Aimed Limb Movements
Authors: Zakotnik Jure , Matheson Tom , Dürr Volker
Published: May 2006

Vertebrates and arthropods are both capable of load compensation during aimed limb movements, such as reaching and grooming. We measured the kinematics and activity of individual motoneurons in loaded and unloaded leg movements in an insect. To evaluate the role of active and passive musculoskeletal properties in aiming and load compensation, we used a neuromechanical model of the femur–tibia joint that transformed measured extensor and flexor motoneuron spikes into joint kinematics. The model comprises three steps: first, an activation dynamics module that determines the time course of isometric force; second, a pair of antagonistic muscle models that determine the joint torque; and third, a forward dynamics simulation that calculates the movement of the limb. The muscles were modeled in five variants, differing in the presence or absence of force–length–velocity characteristics of the contractile element, a parallel passive elastic element, and passive joint damping. Each variant was optimized to yield the best simulation of measured behavior.

Passive muscle force and viscous joint damping were sufficient and necessary to simulate the observed movements. Elastic or damping properties of the active contractile element could not replace passive elements. Passive elastic forces were similar in magnitude to active forces caused by muscle contraction, generating substantial joint stiffness. Antagonistic muscles co-contract, although there was no motoneuronal coactivation, because of slow dynamics of muscle activation. We quantified how co-contraction simplified load compensation by demonstrating that a small variation of the motoneuronal input caused a large change in joint torque.
Translocation of Synaptically Connected Interneurons across the Dentate Gyrus of the Early Postnatal Rat Hippocampus
Authors: Morozov Yury M. , Ayoub Albert E. , Rakic Pasko
Published: May 2006

Most neurons in the developing mammalian brain migrate to their final destinations by translocation of the cell nucleus within their leading process and immature bipolar body that is devoid of synaptic connections. Here, we used a combination of immunohistochemistry at light- and electron-microscopic (EM) levels and time-lapse imaging in slice cultures to analyze migration of synaptically interconnected, cholecystokinin-immunopositive [CCK(+)] interneurons in the dentate gyrus in the rat hippocampus during early postnatal ages. We observed dynamic morphogenetic transformation of the CCK(+) interneurons, from a horizontal bipolar shape situated in the molecular layer, through a transitional triangular and then vertical bipolar form that they acquire while traversing the granular layer to finally assume an adult-like pyramidal-shaped morphology on entering the hilus. Immunostaining with anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein and three-dimensional reconstructions from serial EM images indicate that, unlike granule cells, which migrate from the hilus to the granular layer, interneurons traverse this layer in the opposite direction without apparent surface-mediated guidance of the radial glial cells. Importantly, the somas, dendrites, and axons of the CCK(+) transitional forms maintain old and acquire new synaptic contacts while migrating across the dentate plate. The migration of synaptically interconnected neurons that may occur in response to local functional demand represents a novel mode of cell movement and form of neuroplasticity.
Opposite Regulation of Slick and Slack K+Channels by Neuromodulators
Authors: Santi Celia M. , Ferreira Gonzalo , Yang Bo , Gazula Valeswara-Rao , Butler Alice , Wei Aguan , Kaczmarek Leonard K. , Salkoff Lawrence
Published: May 2006

Slick (Slo2.1) and Slack (Slo2.2) are two novel members of the mammalianSlopotassium channel gene family that may contribute to the resting potentials of cells and control their basal level of excitability. Slo2 channels have sensors that couple channel activity to the intracellular concentrations of Na+and Cl−ions (Yuan et al., 2003). We now report that activity of both Slo2 channels is controlled by neuromodulators through Gαq-protein coupled receptors (GqPCRs) (the M1muscarinic receptor and the mGluR1 metabotropic glutamate receptor). Experiments coexpressing channels and receptors inXenopusoocytes show that Slo2.1 and Slo2.2 channels are modulated in opposite ways: Slo2.1 is strongly inhibited, whereas Slo2.2 currents are strongly activated through GqPCR stimulation. Differential regulation involves protein kinase C (PKC); application of the PKC activator PMA, to cells expressing channels but not receptors, inhibits Slo2.1 whole-cell currents and increases Slo2.2 currents. Synthesis of a chimera showed that the distal carboxyl region of Slo2.1 controls the sensitivity of Slo2.1 to PMA. Slo2 channels have widespread expression in brain (Bhattacharjee et al., 2002, 2005). Using immunocytochemical techniques, we show coexpression of Slo2 channels with the GqPCRs in cortical and hippocampal brain sections and in cultured hippocampal neurons. The differential control of these novel channels by neurotransmitters may elicit long-lasting increases or decreases in neuronal excitability and, because of their widespread distribution, may provide a mechanism to activate or repress electrical activity in many systems of the brain.
Party Competition under Private and Public Financing: A Comparison of Institutions
Authors: Roemer John E
Published: May 2006

We propose a theory of party competition (two parties, single-issue) where citizens acquire party membership by contributing money to a party, and where a members influence on the policy taken by her party is proportional to her campaign contribution. The polity consists of informed and uninformed voters: only informed voters join parties, and the party campaign chest, the sum of its received contributions, is used to reach uninformed voters through advertising. A party is a cooperative organization of its members. Parties compete with each other strategically with respect to policy choice and advertising. We propose a definition of political equilibrium, in which party membership, citizen contributions, and parties policies are simultaneously determined, for each of four financing institutions, running the gamut between a purely private, unconstrained system, to a public system in which all citizens have equal financial input. Equilibria under these institutions are computed by simulation for an example. The representation and welfare properties of these four institutions are compared from these simulations.
Spirituality and Adaptive Coping Styles in German Patients with Chronic Diseases in a CAM Health Care Setting
Authors: Büssing Arndt , Keller Nadja , Michalsen Andreas , Moebus Susanne , Dobos Gustav , Ostermann Thomas , Matthiessen Peter F. , Büssing Arndt
Published: May 2006

For several reasons one may suggest a connection between spirituality and religiosity (SpR) and the usage of CAM. It is suggested that patients with severe diseases which use CAM have more active coping strategies and a higher religious involvement than patients which do not use these treatments. We thus investigated basic attitudes of 313 patients with chronic diseases attending a CAM outpatient clinic towards SpR and their adjustment to their illness, and relevant adaptive coping strategies. All test instruments were extensively (re)validated before usage, particularly the AKU questionnaire which measures adaptive coping styles. The main important strategies were Search for information and medical help and Positive arrangement of life, while Religious support and Positive interpretation of illness were less important. Among those with an interest in SpR, "Support of life through SpR" was highly relevant. "Search for alternative ways of healing" did not correlate with any of the SpR scales, but strongly with "Search for information and medical help" and "Positive arrangement of life." We conclude that interest in CAM is not a unique pattern of SpR, but of an adaptive and active coping. Nevertheless, we confirm SpR is of high importance in patients with life-threatening diseases such as cancer.
Munc13-1 Deficiency Reduces Insulin Secretion and Causes Abnormal Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Kwan Edwin P. , Xie Li , Sheu Laura , Nolan Christopher J. , Prentki Marc , Betz Andrea , Brose Nils , Gaisano Herbert Y.
Published: May 2006

Munc13-1 is a diacylglycerol (DAG) receptor that is essential for synaptic vesicle priming. We recently showed that Munc13-1 is expressed in rodent and human islet β-cells and that its levels are reduced in islets of type 2 diabetic humans and rat models, suggesting that Munc13-1 deficiency contributes to the abnormal insulin secretion in diabetes. To unequivocally demonstrate the role of Munc13-1 in insulin secretion, we studied heterozygous Munc13-1 knockout mice (+/−), which exhibited elevated glucose levels during intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests with corresponding lower serum insulin levels. Munc13-1+/− mice exhibited normal insulin tolerance, indicating that a primary islet β-cell secretory defect is the major cause of their hyperglycemia. Consistently, glucose-stimulated insulin secretion was reduced 50% in isolated Munc13-1+/− islets and was only partially rescued by phorbol ester potentiation. The corresponding alterations were minor in mice expressing one allele of a Munc13-1 mutant variant, which does not bind DAG (H567K/+). Capacitance measurements of Munc13-1+/− and Munc13-1H567k/+ islet β-cells revealed defects in granule priming, including the initial size and refilling of the releasable pools, which become accentuated by phorbol ester potentiation. We conclude that Munc13-1 plays an important role in glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and that Munc13-1 deficiency in the pancreatic islets as occurs in diabetes can reduce insulin secretion sufficient to cause abnormal glucose homeostasis.
Multi-SNP Analysis of MHC Region
Authors: Aly Theresa A. , Eller Elise , Ide Akane , Gowan Katherine , Babu Sunanda R. , Erlich Henry A. , Rewers Marian J. , Eisenbarth George S. , Fain Pamela R.
Published: May 2006

Technology has become available to cost-effectively analyze thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We recently confirmed by genotyping a small series of class I alleles and microsatellite markers that the extended haplotype HLA-A1-B8-DR3 (8.1 AH) at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is a common and conserved haplotype. To further evaluate the region of conservation of the DR3 haplotypes, we genotyped 31 8.1 AHs and 29 other DR3 haplotypes with a panel of 656 SNPs spanning 4.8 Mb in the MHC region. This multi-SNP evaluation revealed a 2.9-Mb region that was essentially invariable for all 31 8.1 AHs. The 31 8.1 AHs were >99.9% identical for 384 consecutive SNPs of the 656 SNPs analyzed. Future association studies of MHC-linked susceptibility to type 1 diabetes will need to account for the extensive conservation of the 8.1 AH, since individuals who carry this haplotype provide no information about the differential effects of the alleles that are present on this haplotype.