bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photodissociation of gas-phase I3−: Comprehensive understanding of nonadiabatic dissociation dynamics
Authors: Nakanishi Ryuzo , Saitou Naoya , Ohno Tomoyo , Kowashi Satomi , Yabushita Satoshi , Nagata Takashi
Published: May 2007

Photodissociation of the gas-phase tri-iodide anion, I3−, was investigated using photofragment time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometry combined with the core extraction method. An analysis of the TOF profiles provided the kinetic energy and angular distributions of photofragment ions and photoneutrals, from which the photoproduct branching fractions were determined in the excitation energy range of 3.26–4.27eV. The measurement has revealed that (1) in the entire energy range investigated, three-body dissociation occurs preferentially as the “charge-asymmetric” process I−(S1)+I(P3∕22)+I(P3∕22) with the yield of ≈30%–40%, where the excess charge is localized on the end atoms of the dissociating I3−, and that (2) two-body dissociation via the Πu3(0u+)←Σg+1(0g+) excitation proceeds as I−(S1)+I2(XΣg+1)∕I2(AΠ1u3) or I(P3∕22)+I2−(XΣu+2) with the yield of ≈60%, while that via the Σu+1(0u+)←Σg+1(0g+) excitation alternatively as I*(P1∕22)+I2−(XΣu+2) or I−(S1)+I2(BΠu3) with the yield of ≈60%. Ab initio calculations including spin-orbit configuration interactions were also performed to gain precise information on the potential energy surfaces relevant to the I3− photodissociation. The calculations have shown the presence of conical intersections and avoided crossings located along the symmetric stretch coordinate near the ground-state equilibrium geometry of I3−, which play key roles for the two-body and the three-body product branching. The nonadiabatic nature of the I3− photodissociation dynamics is discussed by combining the experimental findings and the ab initio results.
Crystallinity effects on the electric-field-induced insulator-metal transition of Pr0.5Ca0.5MnO3 films
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroshi , Murakami Tatsuya , Sakai Joe , Imai Syozo
Published: May 2007

The electric-field-induced insulator-metal (IM) transition of Pr0.5Ca0.5MnO3 (PCMO) thin films in three kinds of stacked junctions, PCMO∕SrRuO3 (SRO)∕PCMO∕MgO (001) (P∕S∕P∕M), PCMO∕SRO∕MgO (001) (P∕S∕M), and PCMO∕SRO∕SrTiO3 (STO;001) (P∕S∕S), was observed at 4.2K. The junction P∕S∕P∕M which contains both a- and c-axis-oriented PCMO films showed the lowest IM transition voltage (2.4V) among the three. On the other hand, the IM transition was not observed under 12.0V in the junction P∕S∕S that consists completely of c-axis-oriented PCMO film, with narrower x-ray diffraction peak than the other two junctions. The junction P∕S∕P∕M also showed the lowest magnetic-field-induced IM transition among the three. These results can be explained by the picture in which the lattice deformation, which accompanies the transition from charge-ordered to charge-disordered state, is less hindered by the substrate lattice in the PCMO films with films oriented in various directions.
Quadruple-bend achromatic low emittance lattice studies
Authors: Wang M. H. , Chang H. P. , Chao H. C. , Chou P. J. , Kuo C. C. , Tsai H. J. , Lee S. Y. , Tam W. M. , Wang F.
Published: May 2007

A quadruple-bend achromatic (QBA) cell, defined as a supercell made of two double-bend cells with different outer and inner dipole bend angles, is found to provide a factor of 2 in lowering the beam emittance relative to the more conventional double-bend achromat. The ratio of bending angles of the inner dipoles to that of the outer dipoles is numerically found to be about 1.5–1.6 for an optimal low beam emittance in the isomagnetic condition. The QBA lattice provides an advantage over the double-bend achromat or the double-bend nonachromat in performance by providing a small natural beam emittance and some zero-dispersion straight sections. A lattice with 12 QBA cells and a preliminary dynamic aperture study serves as an example.
Efficient trapping of silver cations in a rare gas matrix: Ag3+ in argon
Authors: Lecoultre Sylvain , Rydlo Alexandre , Félix Christian
Published: May 2007

Mass selected cations of Ag clusters are deposited, together with Ar seeded with CO2 (or other electron scavengers such as O2, N2O, or CCl4), on a cold substrate, while being flooded with low energy electrons. Optical absorption measurements reveal an efficient trapping of Ag cluster cations in the Ar matrix, provided that CO2 or another electron scavenger is present to ensure charge neutrality of the matrix. The spectrum of Ag3+ thus obtained is in excellent agreement with previous predictions from quantum chemical calculations.
Quantitative Landau potentials for the martensitic transformation in Ni–Al
Authors: Salje E. K. H. , Zhang H. , Schryvers D. , Bartova B.
Published: May 2007

The martensitic phase transformation in Ni–Al (63.5at.% Ni) is described by a Landau-type Gibbs free energy G(Q)=1∕2AΘs(coth(Θs∕T)−coth(Θs∕TC))Q2+1∕4BQ4+1∕6CQ6, with A=5.6JK−1mol−1, B=−3493Jmol−1, C=4901Jmol−1, TC=86K, and Θs=257K. The dispersion (Ginzburg) energy was estimated to be g=60Jmol−1nm2. This potential was determined from high resolution diffraction data to determine the spontaneous strain as proxy for the order parameter Q and differential scanning calorimetry measurements for the calibration of the excess entropy of the martensitic phase transformation. The Gibbs free energy is compared with equivalent functions of Ni–Ti, quartz, KMnF3, BaTiO3, and SrTiO3.
High-resolution differential phase contrast imaging using a magnifying projection geometry with a microfocus x-ray source
Authors: Engelhardt Martin , Baumann Joachim , Schuster Manfred , Kottler Christian , Pfeiffer Franz , Bunk Oliver , David Christian
Published: May 2007

Differential x-ray phase contrast imaging using a grating interferometer was combined with a magnifying cone beam geometry using a conventional microfocus x-ray tube. This brings the advantages of a magnifying cone beam setup, namely, a high spatial resolution in the micron range and the possibility of using an efficient, low resolution detector, into differential phase contrast imaging. The authors present methodical investigations which show how the primary measurement signal depends on the magnification factor. As an illustration of the potential of this quantitative imaging technique, a high-resolution x-ray phase contrast tomography of an insect is presented.
Luminescence and absorption analysis of undoped organic materials
Authors: Odermatt Stefan , Ketter Nils , Witzigmann Bernd
Published: May 2007

The authors model and analyze the electroluminescence and absorption properties of organic semiconductors using Alq3 as example. Instead of using a typical quasiparticle approach based on singlet and triplet excitons, they obtain the absorption and electroluminescence spectra by solving the equation of motion for the linear microscopic polarization in a hierarchical many-body framework. A special focus is put on Coulomb effects. The electronic structure input parameters for this model are obtained by molecular orbital calculations. In particular for Alq3, they find a (Coulomb) exciton binding energy of about 0.9eV and discuss the impact of the strong carrier density induced Coulomb exchange shift on electroluminescence and absorption spectra.
Air-suspended two-dimensional polymer photonic crystal slab waveguides fabricated by nanoimprint lithography
Authors: Choi Choon-Gi , Han Young-Tak , Kim Jin Tae , Schift Helmut
Published: May 2007

Air-suspended membrane-type photonic crystals were fabricated in polystyrene. The two-dimensional photonic crystal slab nanostructures were replicated by a thermal nanoimprint process, and then air-suspended membrane structures were generated by a selective sacrificial layer etch process. The optical transmission showed clear band gap characteristics at 1550nm wavelength, which is in good agreement with the theoretical calculations.
Improvement in conductive and photovoltaic properties of layer-by-layer poly(p-phenylenevinylene) thin films by low-temperature conversion
Authors: Ogawa Michihiro , Kudo Naomi , Ohkita Hideo , Ito Shinzaburo , Benten Hiroaki
Published: May 2007

Poly(p-phenylenevinylene) (PPV) thin films were fabricated with poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) anion by the layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition technique. A precursor PPV was thermally converted into PPV even at 100°C in the presence of PSS. By the low-temperature conversion, the photoluminescence efficiency from the PPV/PSS LbL films increased significantly and the hole mobility was improved to 2×10−5cm2V−1s−1. Consequently, the power conversion efficiency of PPV/PSS LbL photovoltaic films increased by one order of magnitude compared with that converted at 220°C.
Electrophoretic stretching of DNA molecules using microscale T junctions
Authors: Tang Jing , Doyle Patrick S.
Published: May 2007

Controlled trapping and stretching of DNA molecules are critical for single molecule genomic and polymer physics studies. The authors present a microfabricated T junction which can trap and stretch single free DNA molecules using electrophoretic forces. The device does not require special end functionalization of the DNA. They show that two physical mechanisms of stretching can occur depending on the length of the DNA relative to the channel width in the junction region. Stable trapping and stretching of DNA molecules up to lengths of 485kbp are demonstrated.
Newcastle disease virus, a host range-restricted virus, as a vaccine vector for intranasal immunization against emerging pathogens
Authors: DiNapoli Joshua M. , Kotelkin Alexander , Yang Lijuan , Elankumaran Subbiah , Murphy Brian R. , Samal Siba K. , Collins Peter L. , Bukreyev Alexander
Published: May 2007

The international outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in 2002–2003 highlighted the need to develop pretested human vaccine vectors that can be used in a rapid response against newly emerging pathogens. We evaluated Newcastle disease virus (NDV), an avian paramyxovirus that is highly attenuated in primates, as a topical respiratory vaccine vector with SARS-CoV as a test pathogen. Complete recombinant NDV was engineered to express the SARS-CoV spike S glycoprotein, the viral neutralization and major protective antigen, from an added transcriptional unit. African green monkeys immunized through the respiratory tract with two doses of the vaccine developed a titer of SARS-CoV-neutralizing antibodies comparable with the robust secondary response observed in animals that have been immunized with a different experimental SARS-CoV vaccine and challenged with SARS-CoV. When animals immunized with NDV expressing S were challenged with a high dose of SARS-CoV, direct viral assay of lung tissues taken by necropsy at the peak of viral replication demonstrated a 236- or 1,102-fold (depending on the NDV vector construct) mean reduction in pulmonary SARS-CoV titer compared with control animals. NDV has the potential for further development as a pretested, highly attenuated, intranasal vector to be available for expedited vaccine development for humans, who generally lack preexisting immunity against NDV.
DA-Raf1, a competent intrinsic dominant-negative antagonist of the Ras–ERK pathway, is required for myogenic differentiation
Authors: Yokoyama Takashi , Takano Kazunori , Yoshida Akira , Katada Fumiko , Sun Peng , Takenawa Tadaomi , Andoh Toshiwo , Endo Takeshi
Published: May 2007

Ras activates Raf, leading to the extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK)–mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, which is involved in a variety of cellular, physiological, and pathological responses. Thus, regulators of this Ras–Raf interaction play crucial roles in these responses. In this study, we report a novel regulator of the Ras–Raf interaction named DA-Raf1. DA-Raf1 is a splicing isoform of A-Raf with a wider tissue distribution than A-Raf. It contains the Ras-binding domain but lacks the kinase domain, which is responsible for activation of the ERK pathway. As inferred from its structure, DA-Raf1 bound to activated Ras as well as M-Ras and interfered with the ERK pathway. The Ras–ERK pathway is essential for the negative regulation of myogenic differentiation induced by growth factors. DA-Raf1 served as a positive regulator of myogenic differentiation by inducing cell cycle arrest, the expression of myogenin and other muscle-specific proteins, and myotube formation. These results imply that DA-Raf1 is the first identified competent, intrinsic, dominant-negative antagonist of the Ras–ERK pathway.
Variation among individual butterflies along a generalist–specialist axis: no support for the ‘neural constraint’ hypothesis
Authors: WEE BRIAN , SINGER MICHAEL C.
Published: May 2007

Abstract 1. Degree of host specialisation was a continuous variable in a population of Edith’s checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha). A novel host, Collinsia torreyi, had been added to the diet in response to anthropogenic disturbance, and then abandoned prior to the current study. Butterflies either showed no preference or preferred their traditional host, Pedicularis semibarbata.

2. Strength of preference for Pedicularis over Collinsia was measured in the field and used to estimate host specialisation of individual butterflies. Efficiency was estimated from the times taken by each insect to perform two tasks: (i) identification of a Pedicularis plant as a host, and (ii) successful initiation of oviposition after the decision to do so had been made.

3. There was no clear trend for association between host specialisation and either measure of efficiency. Generalists were not slower than specialists at identifying Pedicularis as a host or at handling it after deciding to oviposit.

4. Prior work indicated that generalists paid no detectable cost in terms of reduced discrimination among individuals of their preferred host species.

5. In contrast to other species, generalist E. editha paid in neither time nor accuracy. Why then does the diet not expand? Behavioural adaptations to the traditional host caused maladaptations to the novel host and generated short‐term constraints to evolutionary expansion of diet breadth. To date, however, no long‐term constraints have been found in this system. In those traits investigated to date, increased adaptation to the novel host has not caused reduced adaptation to the traditional host.
Reproductive allocation in multinest colonies of the ponerine antPachycondyla goeldii
Authors: DENIS DAMIEN , PEZON ANTOINE , FRESNEAU DOMINIQUE
Published: May 2007

Abstract1. Pachycondyla goeldiiconstitutes the only recorded case of a monogynous (i.e. one queen per colony) polydomous (i.e. several nests per colony) species in thePonerinaesubfamily. This study examines the impact of polydomy on reproductive allocation between nests (also called ‘calies’ in polydomous society) inPachycondyla goeldiiForel, by: (i) recording the number of workers and sexuals in 67 nests belonging to 21 colonies; (ii) dissection of workers in nine nests containing a queen (QR nests), nine nests without a queen but associated to a QR nest (QL nests) and five nests belonging to colonies that permanently lost the queen (OR nests); and (iii) measuring the length of all eggs present in the nests (our laboratory study shows that queen‐laid eggs were significantly longer than worker‐laid eggs).

2. The number of workers was significantly higher in QR nests than in QL nests, while the number of virgin queens was significantly higher in QL nests compared with QR nests.

3. Worker ovarian activity is inversely related to queen proximity: highest in OR nests, intermediate in QL nests, and lowest in QR nests.

4. Egg length was highest in QR nests, where the queen was most likely the primary egg‐layer, intermediate in QL nests, where eggs could have originated from both the queen and workers, and lowest in OR nests, where workers were the sole egg‐layers.

5. We postulate that the proximal mechanism explaining differences between QR and QL nests is the pheromonal absence of the queen from QL nests and that the evolutionary reasons of these divergences between nest types are likely to originate from the different conflicts occurring in ant colonies.
Environmental and geographical determinants of beta diversity of leaf beetles (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: BASELGA ANDRÉS , JIMÉNEZ‐VALVERDE ALBERTO
Published: May 2007

Abstract 1. The effect and relative importance of both environmental and geographic factors on species turnover of Chrysomelidae assemblages in the Iberian Peninsula was explored.

2. Ordination and classification analysis of species lists from well‐sampled local areas identified two main biogegraphic groups of inventories, discriminating between Eurosiberian and Mediterranean faunas.

3. After describing this pattern, the underlying determinants were explored, separating pure from combined effects of environment and geography by means of partial canonical correspondence analysis.

4. Results indicate that pure effects of environment and geographic position are of similar magnitude (about 20% of the variation from each), and quite important in comparison with combined effects.

5. The power of the pure effect of geographical variables, together with beta‐diversity independence of species richness gradients, point to the inadequacy of environmental measurement explanation of beta‐diversity patterns, and to the existence of a major component of geographical variation independent of environment.
Marquardt optimization of gravity anomalies of anticlinal and synclinal structures with prescribed depth‐dependent density
Authors: Chakravarthi V. , Sundararajan N.
Published: May 2007

An inversion technique using the Marquardt optimization is developed to interpret the gravity anomalies due to anticlinal and synclinal structures with density contrast varying continuously with depth. The algorithm simultaneously estimates the parameters of the respective models, in addition to the regional gravity background that is invariably associated with the residual gravity anomaly. Forward modelling is realized through analytically derived gravity expressions for the respective models in the space domain. The efficacy of the inversion is demonstrated with the gravity anomaly due to a theoretical model, in each case with and without the regional background. In addition, the applicability is illustrated using the gravity anomalies of the Pays De Bray anticline, situated north‐west of Paris, France. The interpreted depth of the Pays De Bray anticline using the present inversion compares well with the drilling depth.
Nature of the scattered seismic response from zones of random clusters of cavities and fractures in a massive rock
Authors: Leviant V.B. , Petrov I.B. , Chelnokov F.B. , Antonova I.Y.
Published: May 2007

The scattering of elastic energy by random clusters of fractures and/or cavities in a massive rock is studied. The interpretation of the scattered seismic response reveals crucial information about the clusters of inhomogeneities (fractures/cavities), which may correspond to reservoirs. The study is based on a new two‐dimensional numerical‐modelling method that relaxes the constraints on the location and orientation of the inhomogeneities, accounts for inhomogeneities that have almost no volume but a finite surface area (fractures) and improves the accuracy of the calculation when the size of the inhomogeneities is comparable to the mesh size.

It is shown that the nature of the seismic response of zones of diffuse fracturing and/or cavities is associated with the non‐uniformity of micro‐inhomogeneities in such zones; accumulations of these micro‐inhomogeneities are known as clusters.

The relationship between the non‐uniformity of micro‐inhomogeneities and the strength of the seismic response has been established and measured.

Considerable differences in the structure of the seismic response of zones of diffuse fracturing and diffuse cavities have been identified. Converted PS‐waves dominate in the scattered wavefield associated with fractures. This is explained, as the modelling results show, by a greater transparency of fluid‐filled fractures, which reduces the reflected energy of compressional waves. The wavefield associated with cavities is characterized by the predominance (in terms of strength) of compressional PP‐waves. The strength of converted PS‐waves in the scattered wavefields for both media is approximately the same.

On the whole, according to the results of the modelling, the energy of the scattered response of fractured reservoirs is considerably less (about two times) than that of cavernous reservoirs.
Barriers to reducing the use of restraints in residential elder care facilities
Authors: Moore Kirsten , Haralambous Betty
Published: May 2007

Title. Barriers to reducing the use of restraints in residential elder care facilities

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to compare perspectives of staff in residential elder care facilities with those of residents and family members from the same facilities about barriers to reducing the use of physical, chemical and environmental restraints.

Background.  There is growing research evidence of the potential risk of physical and emotional harm of restraining residents in residential elder care facilities. Despite the potential harms, restraints continue to be a common practice in facilities across Australia. Little research has been undertaken to explore the barriers to reducing the use of restraints.

Method.  Eighteen individual interviews were conducted with staff, general practitioners and a pharmacist and three focus groups were conducted with a total of 12 residents and 17 family members associated with three residential elder care facilities in Melbourne, Australia in 2004.

Findings.  The three participating facilities were committed to reducing the use of restraints, although physical, chemical and environmental restraints were used in all three facilities. Barriers to reducing restraint use included fear of resident injury, staff and resource limitations, lack of education and information about alternatives to restraints, environmental constraints, policy and management issues, beliefs and expectations (of staff, family and residents), inadequate review practices and communication barriers.

Conclusion.  Further education and support for staff and family members in evidence‐based practice in relation to resident care and restraint use is needed in at least some residential elder care facilities.
Invasive alien plants infiltrate bird‐mediated shrub nucleation processes in arid savanna
Authors: MILTON S. J. , WILSON J. R. U. , RICHARDSON D. M. , SEYMOUR C. L. , DEAN W. R. J. , IPONGA D. M. , PROCHEŞ Ş.
Published: May 2007

The cultivation and dissemination of alien ornamental plants increases their potential to invade. More specifically, species with bird‐dispersed seeds can potentially infiltrate natural nucleation processes in savannas.

To test (i) whether invasion depends on facilitation by host trees, (ii) whether propagule pressure determines invasion probability, and (iii) whether alien host plants are better facilitators of alien fleshy‐fruited species than indigenous species, we mapped the distribution of alien fleshy‐fruited species planted inside a military base, and compared this with the distribution of alien and native fleshy‐fruited species established in the surrounding natural vegetation.

Abundance and diversity of fleshy‐fruited plant species was much greater beneath tree canopies than in open grassland and, although some native fleshy‐fruited plants were found both beneath host trees and in the open, alien fleshy‐fruited plants were found only beneath trees.

Abundance of fleshy‐fruited alien species in the natural savanna was positively correlated with the number of individuals of those species planted in the grounds of the military base, while the species richness of alien fleshy‐fruited taxa decreased with distance from the military base, supporting the notion that propagule pressure is a fundamental driver of invasions.

There were more fleshy‐fruited species beneath native Acacia tortilis than beneath alien Prosopis sp. trees of the equivalent size. Although there were significant differences in native plant assemblages beneath these hosts, the proportion of alien to native fleshy‐fruited species did not differ with host.

Synthesis. Birds facilitate invasion of a semi‐arid African savanna by alien fleshy‐fruited plants, and this process does not require disturbance. Instead, propagule pressure and a few simple biological observations define the probability that a plant will invade, with alien species planted in gardens being a major source of propagules. Some invading species have the potential to transform this savanna by overtopping native trees, leading to ecosystem‐level impacts. Likewise, the invasion of the open savanna by alien host trees (such as Prosopis sp.) may change the diversity, abundance and species composition of the fleshy‐fruited understorey. These results illustrate the complex interplay between propagule pressure, facilitation, and a range of other factors in biological invasions.
Can natural phenotypic variances be estimated reliably under homogeneous laboratory conditions?
Authors: ST JULIANA J. R. , JANZEN F. J.
Published: May 2007

AbstractThe phenotypic variance is assumed to be greater in a more heterogeneous environment. The validity of this assumption is important for microevolutionists to extrapolate results from the laboratory to field environments. We subjected clutches of eggs from common snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) to a split‐family design to evaluate the variability in incubation time and four size traits of neonates from eggs incubated in the laboratory and those leftin situ. Mean size measurements were similar between the laboratory and the field, but incubation time was systematically longer in the field. We found no tendency among clutches for hatchlings resulting from eggs incubated in laboratory or field environments to demonstrate greater variability. Also contrary to expectation, clutches that experienced greater thermal variation in the field did not exhibit greater variation in phenotypic traits. Consequently, extrapolating results from the laboratory to the field may not always be problematic for microevolutionary analyses.
Junior medical officer recruitment: Challenges and lessons from the Northern Territory
Authors: McDonald Robert , Sathianathan Vino
Published: May 2007

Objective:  To examine the influence of newspaper and Internet advertising, word‐of‐mouth endorsement and student experience in attracting applicants for junior medical officer positions in the Northern Territory.

Design:  A retrospective study.

Participants:  Fifty‐four applicants for junior medical officer positions.

Main outcome measure:  Proportion of applicants who reported newspaper advertising, Internet advertising, word of mouth or personal experience in attracting their application for an intern or resident medical officer position.

Results:  Nineteen per cent of applicants saw the newspaper advertisement and 52% of the Internet advertisement. Eighty‐seven per cent of applicants were influenced by word‐of‐mouth endorsement and 52% by student experience in the Northern Territory or Indigenous health.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that word‐of‐mouth endorsement has the greatest influence in attracting applicants for junior medical officer positions in Northern Territory hospitals.
Building sustainable rural research capacity: The experiences of a brain injury rehabilitation service
Authors: Salmon Lizette , Curtin Michael , Ginnivan Denis , Neumayer Robert
Published: May 2007

There is an emerging recognition of the need for health research that is conducted by and for rural people. Rural research promotes excellence in clinical practice and can improve staff recruitment and retention. A group of clinicians from a regional brain injury service collaborated with academics at their local university to form the Rural Rehabilitation Research on Brain Injury initiative. This initiative has funded four peer‐reviewed research projects, secured an Australian Research Council grant and established the beginnings of a state‐wide rural research collective involving all Brain Injury Rehabilitation Programs in New South Wales. Sustainable research enterprises such as this have significant potential as a ‘prototype’ for building research capacity in other rural health sectors. Governments and funding bodies should support these initiatives.
Role of microsomal enzymes in development of alcoholic liver diseases
Authors: Konishi Masahiro , Ishii Hiromasa
Published: May 2007

Chronic ethanol consumption results in the proliferation of the membranes of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Although these microsomal changes can be interpreted as adaptive alterations secondary to induction of the membranes after chronic ethanol ingestion, some injurious consequences may ensue. Accelerated ethanol metabolism results in enhanced production of acetaldehyde and exacerbation of its various toxic manifestations including enhanced lipid peroxidation. The latter may also be promoted more directly through enhanced free radical formation by the induced microsomes and cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP2E1). Ethanol‐inducible CYP2E1 is of interest because of its ability to metabolize and activate many toxicologically important substrates including ethanol, CCl4, acetaminophen, and N‐nitrosodimethylamine, to more toxic products. Major interest in CYP2E1 reflects the ability of this enzyme to oxidize ethanol, to generate reactive products from ethanol oxidation (e.g. acetaldehyde and 1‐hydroxyethyl radical), to activate various agents including CCl4 and acetaminophen into reactive products, and to generate reactive oxygen species. There is considerable interest in the role of ethanol‐induced oxidative stress and generation of reactive oxygen species in the mechanisms by which ethanol becomes hepatotoxic. To understand the basic effects and actions of CYP2E1, an approach has been established to utilize the cell lines that constitutively express human CYP2E1. This review article briefly describes a role of microsomal enzymes in the development of alcoholic liver injury as well as the usefulness of this cell line to further clarify the mechanisms of CYP2E1‐related hepatotoxicity.
Role of adipocytokines in hepatic fibrogenesis
Authors: Ikejima Kenichi , Okumura Kyoko , Kon Kazuyoshi , Takei Yoshiyuki , Sato Nobuhiro
Published: May 2007

Obesity and insulin resistance are the key factors for progression of hepatic fibrosis in various chronic liver diseases including non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Recently it has been shown that leptin plays a pivotal role in development of hepatic fibrosis. Leptin promotes hepatic fibrogenesis through upregulation of transforming growth factor‐β in Kupffer cells and sinusoidal endothelial cells. Further, leptin facilitates proliferation and prevents apoptosis of hepatic stellate cells. There is a paradox, however, in that ob/ob mice and Zucker rats, which are the obese and diabetic strains, had minimal profibrogenic responses in the liver, most likely because they lack leptin and its receptors. To establish a more clinically relevant model to study the mechanism of fibrogenesis under steatohepatitis, fatty changes and profibrogenic responses in the liver caused by methionine–choline deficiency (MCD) were investigated in the KK‐Ay mouse, which is an obese and diabetic strain. KK‐Ay mice developed more severe hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis induced by an MCD diet as compared to C57Bl/6 controls. Importantly, KK‐Ay mice lack physiological upregulation of adiponectin levels, suggesting that adiponectin plays a pivotal role not only in regulation of insulin sensitivity but also in modulation of inflammatory and profibrogenic responses in dietary steatohepatitis. Collectively, these findings support the hypothesis that the balance of adipocytokine expression is a key regulator for the progression of hepatic fibrosis in the setting of steatohepatitis.
Polymorphic dinucleotide microsatellites in tongue sole (Cynoglossus semilaevis)
Authors: LIAO X. , SHAO C. W. , TIAN Y. S. , CHEN S. L
Published: May 2007

The tongue sole, Cynoglossus semilaevis, is a rare marine flatfish distributed in Chinese coastal waters. From a (GT)n‐enriched genomic library, 57 microsatellites were isolated and characterized. Seventeen of these loci were polymorphic in a test population with alleles ranging from three to 13, and observed and expected heterozygosities from 0.1613 to 1.0000 and from 0.2126 to 0.8983, respectively. Five loci deviated from the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in the sampled population, and linkage disequilibrium between two loci was significant after applying Bonferroni correction. Three additional fish species assessed for cross‐species amplification revealed that only one locus was also polymorphic in one species. These polymorphic microsatellite loci should provide sufficient level of genetic diversity to evaluate the breeding strategy and investigate the fine‐scale population structure in C. semilaevis.
INSTRUMENTAL NEUTRON ACTIVATION BASED PROVENANCE STUDIES AT THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEM, WITH A CASE STUDY ON MYCENAEAN POTTERY FROM CYPRUS
Authors: YELLIN J.
Published: May 2007

A neutron activation programme aimed at archaeological provenance research operated at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem between the years 1974 and 1997. The history and accomplishments of that laboratory are presented. Endeavours to preserve unpublished results are described. Results on Cypriote pottery are presented.
ARCHAEOMETRY AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY: CHARACTERIZATION OF SAMOAN BASALTS
Authors: JAMES W. D. , RAULERSON M. R. , JOHNSON P. R.
Published: May 2007

The Elemental Analysis Laboratory provides research support for campus users and service analyses for the University, other state and governmental agencies and private industry. The laboratory's primary concern is the application of unique methodology to a wide range of analytical problems that arise in the course of efforts by University researchers. For the past decade or so, compositional analysis by neutron activation analysis of archaeological artefacts for the purpose of studying provenance, trade or cultural patterns of prehistoric populations has become an area of focus. The present communication will discuss the laboratory in general and the scope and significance of the archaeology work done within the organization. A brief example of a current project involving the study of geologic samples from prehistoric stone tool quarries from American Samoa is presented as an illustration.
Evaluating Maternity Care: A Core Set of Outcome Measures
Authors: Devane Declan , Begley Cecily M. , Clarke Mike , Horey Dell , OBoyle Colm
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Comparing the relative effectiveness of interventions on specific outcomes across trials can be problematic due to differences in the choice and definitions of outcome measures used by researchers. We sought to identify a minimum set of outcome measures for evaluating models of maternity care from the perspective of key stakeholders.
Methods:
A 3‐round, electronic Delphi survey design was used. Setting was multinational, comprising a range of key stakeholders. Participants consisted of a single heterogeneous panel of maternity service users, midwives, obstetricians, pediatricians/neonatologists, family physicians/general practitioners, policy‐makers, service practitioners, and researchers of maternity care. Members of the panel self‐assessed their expertise in evaluating models of maternity care.
Results:
A total of 320 people from 28 countries expressed willingness to take part in this survey. Round 1 was completed by 218 (68.1%) participants, of whom 173 (79.4%) completed round 2 and 152 (87.9%) of these completed round 3. Fifty outcomes were identified, with both a mean value greater than the overall group mean for all outcomes combined (x = 4.18) and rated 4 or more on a 5‐point Likert‐type scale for importance of inclusion in a minimum data set of outcome measures by at least 70 percent of respondents. Three outcomes were collapsed into a single outcome so that the final minimum set includes 48 outcomes. Conclusions: Given the inconsistencies in the choice of outcome measures routinely collected and reported in randomized evaluations of maternity care, it is hoped that use of the data set will increase the potential for national and international comparisons of models for maternity care. Although not intended to be prescriptive or to inhibit the collection of other outcomes, we hope that the core set will make it easier to assess the care of women and their babies during pregnancy and childbirth. (BIRTH 34:2 June 2007)
Effect of Desonide Hydrogel 0.05% on the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Axis in Pediatric Subjects with Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Eichenfield Lawrence F. , Basu Sarmistha , Calvarese Barry , Trancik Ronald J.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Desonide, a low potency corticosteroid, has been used widely as a topical treatment for inflammatory dermatoses for over 30 years. A recent formulation advance has enabled the development of desonide 0.05% into a novel moisturizing aqueous gel (hydrogel) that is free of alcohol and surfactants. This multicenter, open‐label study evaluated the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis suppression potential, tolerability, and efficacy of this new Class VI topical steroid formulation in pediatric subjects with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis (mean body surface area = 51%). Forty children, aged 6 months to 6 years were enrolled and treated twice daily for 4 weeks. Desonide hydrogel 0.05% was well tolerated and no treatment‐related adverse events were reported. No suppression of adrenal function was observed in subjects who completed the study without protocol violations related to cosyntropin administration or cortisol testing (n = 34). Of the subjects who completed the study with complications in cortisol testing (n = 3), there was one subject (1/37 = 3%) who had a low poststimulation cortisol level at week 4. Efficacy was demonstrated by marked improvement in overall disease state and in the signs and symptoms of atopic dermatitis. This study validates the systemic safety of a novel desonide hydrogel formulation in young pediatric patients and confirms the longstanding tolerability and efficacy profile of desonide.
Support Groups for Children and Their Families in Pediatric Dermatology
Authors: Goh Carolyn , Lane Alfred T. , Bruckner Anna L.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Recent discussions regarding the burden of skin disease and patient‐centered medicine highlight the profound effects skin disease can have on individuals, their families, and society as a whole. Local support groups, often connected to national patient advocacy groups, can be an invaluable resource for patients, and offer physicians the opportunity to learn more about patients’ disease experiences while providing adjunctive therapy for conditions such as alopecia areata and vitiligo, for which medical options are often limited. We created a support group for children with alopecia areata and their parents as a model for other diseases such as vitiligo and epidermolysis bullosa. Herein we outline the steps involved in establishing a support group, including the many resources available for patient support, steps in the recruitment of patients, topics for discussion and goals for the group, and the logistics of running a meeting. Creating this family support group was a relatively straightforward and rewarding experience for us, and we hope that other pediatric dermatologists can utilize this model for their patients.
Gravitational Erythema
Authors: PEREIRA TERESA , VIEIRA ANA PAULA , FERNANDES JOSÉ CARLOS , SOUSA BASTO A.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  We report an extremely unusual instance of macular erythema on the arms of a 15‐year‐old boy that occurs when the arms are in a dependent position. The eruption disappears promptly on elevation of the arms. The skin changes observed in our patient are similar to those previously described under the term gravitational erythema. It is suggested that the cutaneous lesions are secondary to an abnormal response to changes in venous pressure.
Cutis Marmorata Telangiectatica Congenita and Neonatal Lupus
Authors: HEUGHAN CAROLINE E. , KANIGSBERG NORDAU
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita is an uncommon congenital vascular anomaly that is characterized by persistent, reticulated, violaceous pigmentation. We describe a female infant with vascular lesions consistent with this entity who was born to a mother with previously diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus. Antinuclear antibodies and anti‐Ro/SSA antibodies were detected in both mother and infant, supporting a diagnosis of neonatal lupus. This presentation is consistent with the rarely reported association between neonatal lupus and cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita that suggests the latter is part of the cutaneous spectrum of the former. A thorough maternal history and laboratory investigations should be considered for infants with cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita and their mothers in order to rule out the presence of an underlying autoimmune disease.
Familial Chylomicronemia Syndrome
Authors: SUGANDHAN SELVENDRAN , KHANDPUR SUJAY , SHARMA VINOD K.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Familial chylomicronemia syndrome is a rare disorder of lipoprotein metabolism due to familial lipoprotein lipase (LPL) or apolipoprotein C‐II deficiency or the presence of inhibitors to lipoprotein lipase. It manifests as eruptive xanthomas, acute pancreatitis, and lipaemic plasma due to marked elevation of triglyceride and chylomicron levels. We report two siblings with this rare disorder and review the literature.
In vivo recovery of human platelets in severe combined immunodeficient mice as a measure of platelet damage
Authors: Piper John T. , Gelderman Monique P. , Vostal Jaroslav G.
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND: Clinical performance of human platelet (PLT) products processed or stored under novel conditions is difficult to predict based on in vitro studies alone. Recovery and survival of radiolabeled PLTs in human subjects are used as surrogate markers for PLT efficacy in development of new products. Such experiments pose some risk to the participants, can be a financial burden on the sponsor, and may stifle innovation and development of new PLT products. Animal models for in vivo recovery and survival of human PLTs are limited by rapid, immune‐mediated clearance of human cells. The severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice allowed prolonged circulation of human PLTs and were used to detect differences in recovery and survival between chemically damaged, aged PLTs, or normal PLTs.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Human PLTs were transfused into SCID and wild‐type (WT) mice, and the recoveries and survival times were detected in mouse whole blood by flow cytometry with an anti‐human CD41–fluorescein isothiocyanate monoclonal antibody. Recoveries of damaged PLTs were compared to normal PLTs.

RESULTS: Recoveries were significantly shorter in WT than in SCID mice at 4 hours after transfusion (WT, 20.8 ± 5.4%, n = 12; SCID, 63.8 ± 8.4%, n = 10) and with a t½ estimate of 2 hours for WT and 7 hours for SCID mice. Human PLTs damaged either by chemical treatment or by improper storage exhibited decreased recoveries in SCID mice.

CONCLUSION: The SCID mouse model can detect differences between damaged and control human PLTs and could be useful in evaluating novel PLT collection, processing, and storage technologies that may impact PLT quality.
Atrial Macroreentry Tachycardia in Patients without Obvious Structural Heart Disease or Previous Cardiac Surgical or Catheter Intervention: Characterization of Arrhythmogenic Substrates, Reentry Circuits, and Results of Catheter Ablation
Authors: FIALA MARTIN , CHOVANČÍK JAN , NEUWIRTH RADEK , NEVŘALOVÁ RENÁTA , JIRAVSKÝ OTAKAR , ŠKŇOUŘIL LIBOR , DORDA MILOSLAV , JANUŠKA JAROSLAV , VODZINSKÁ ALEXANDRA , ČERNÝ JINDŘICH , NYKL IGOR , BRANNY MARIAN
Published: May 2007

Introduction: Atrial macroreentry tachycardia (AMRT) in patients without obvious structural heart disease or previous surgical or catheter intervention has not been characterized in detail.

Methods and Results: Electroanatomical mapping and ablation of right or left AMRT were performed in 33 patients. Right atrial central conduction obstacle was formed by an electrically silent area (ESA) in 15 (68%) patients and by a line of double potentials (DPs) in seven (32%) patients. Left atrial ESAs were found in all 11 patients with the left AMRT. Reentry circuit was reconstructed in 19 (86%) patients with right AMRT and seven (64%) patients with left AMRT. Of the ESA‐related right AMRT, eight (50%) were double‐loop reentry circuits utilizing a narrow critical isthmus within the ESA and eight (50%) were single‐loop reentry circuits with a critical isthmus bounded by ESA and either ostium of the vena cava. Single‐loop DP‐related AMRTs had the critical isthmus between the DP line and the ostium of the inferior vena cava (IVC). Left AMRTs included a variety of single‐, double‐, or triple‐loop reentry circuits and their critical isthmuses. During the 37 ± 15 month follow‐up, atrial tachyarrhythmia‐free clinical outcome was achieved in 21 (95%) patients (18 patients, 82%, without antiarrhythmic drugs) with the right AMRT and in nine (82%) patients (six patients, 55%, without antiarrhythmic drugs) with the left AMRT.

Conclusion: The majority of right and left AMRTs were related to the presence of ESA. Ablation can be successful with a favorable risk of atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence.
Health services research in dermatology – current update and perspectives
Authors: Zimmer Lisa , Schommer Angela , Augustin Matthias
Published: May 2007

Background: An indepth knowledge of the demands on health care resources and the quality of health care provision is of major importance for the future care of skin and allergy patients. We present a comprehensive summary of all available health care data and research activities in dermatology in Germany.

Methods: A standardized electronic literature search was performed using PUBMED as well as a manual search to identify activities in the field of health services research in dermatology. Furthermore, questionnaires were sent to 114 dermatology hospitals and to 52 health service research institutions in Germany.

Results: The overall return rate of the survey was 81%.Hints on projects were given by 30 hospitals and 5 institutions. Most of these projects were in the field of epidemiology, quality of life, economy and prevention. Finally, the search identified 101 health services research projects in Germany. In addition, material gathered from internet and secondary citations from scientific journals produced a total of 216 publications. Only few projects were found on the working conditions of physicians and other health care professionals, on the implementation of guidelines, on needs and use of dermatological services and on the quality of care.

Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that there are substantial deficiencies in some important areas of health services research in dermatology.To provide efficient and qualified dermatological health care in Germany in the future, more research projects on the needs, demands and quality of health care are needed.