bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical composition of the volatiles of three wild Bergenia species from western China
Authors: Zhao Jiayuan , Liu Jimei , Zhang Xiaoyan , Liu Zhijun , Tsering Tashi , Zhong Yang , Nan Peng
Published: January 2006

Volatiles were distilled from leaves of three Bergenia species collected from Yunnan, Xinjiang and Tibet in western China and analyzed using GC/MS instrumentation. The contents of extractable volatiles varied substantially among the three species with B. crassifolia having approximately 0.05% dry wt (v/w), B. purpurscens 0.01% (v/w) and B. stracheyi 0.13% (v/w), respectively. In B. crassifolia, the main components were present as 3‐methyl‐2‐buten‐1‐ol (26.56%), hexadecanoic acid (16.06%), dodecanoic acid (9.99%), linalool (5.63%) and octadecadienoic acid (4.10%). In B. purpurascens, the main components were β‐eudesmol (18.63%), phytol (14.50%), hexadecanoic acid (13.05%), n‐nonacosane (9.19%) and 3‐methyl‐2‐buten‐1‐ol (7.52%). In B. stracheyi, 3‐methyl‐2‐buten‐1‐ol was the dominant sort of volatile (52.71%), whereas detected major constituents included β‐eudesmol (7.44%), damascenone (3.22%), caryophyllene (2.75%) and phytol (2.57%). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GABAergic signaling in young granule cells in the adult rat and mouse dentate gyrus
Authors: Karten Yashmin J.G. , Jones Meredith A. , Jeurling Sara I. , Cameron Heather A.
Published: January 2006

Throughout most of the developing brain, including the hippocampus, GABAergic synapses are the first to become functional. Several features of GABAergic signaling change across development, suggesting that this signaling in the immature brain may play important roles in the growth of young neurons and the establishment of networks. To determine whether GABAAreceptor (GABAAR)‐containing synapses in new neurons born in the adult dentate gyrus have similar immature features, we examined spontaneous and evoked GABAAR‐mediated synaptic currents in young (POMC‐EGFP or doublecortin‐immunostained) granule cells in acute slice preparations from adult mice and rats. Spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) were observed in nearly all immature granule cells, but their frequency was considerably lower and their decay time constant was nearly two times longer than in neighboring mature (doublecortin‐nonimmunoreactive or EGFP‐nonexpressing) granule cells within the subgranular zone. Evoked IPSCs (eIPSCs) in mature granule cells, but not immature granule cells, were sensitive to zolpidem, suggesting a maturational increase in GABAAR α1‐subunit expression. Perforated‐patch recording revealed that eIPSCs depolarized young neurons, but hyperpolarized mature neurons. The early establishment of synaptic GABAergic inputs slow IPSC decay time, and depolarizing action of eIPSCs are remarkably similar to features previously seen in neurons during development, suggesting that they are intrinsic features of immature neurons and not functions of the surrounding circuitry. These developmental features in adult‐born granule cells could play a role in maturational processes such as developmental cell death. However, treatment of adult mice with GABAAR agonists and an inverse agonist did not significantly alter the number of 4‐ to 14‐day‐old BrdU‐labeled cells. Published 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Forces and torques during fracture reduction: Intraoperative measurements in the femur
Authors: Gösling Thomas , Westphal Rolf , Faülstich Jens , Sommer Kirsten , Wahl Friedrich , Krettek Christian , Hufner Tobias
Published: January 2006

Reduction is a crucial step in fracture treatment. We determined intraoperative peak forces and torques during fracture reduction in seven patients with eight fractures of the femoral shaft. All fractures were temporarily stabilized by external fixation. Force and torque measurements were performed during the subsequent intramedullary nailing procedure. A three‐dimensional load cell was attached to the distal femur fragment using two Schanz screws. All forces and torques were registered on‐line during the reduction process. The maximum resulting force was 411 N, the maximum resulting torque 74 N · m. The highest force was observed along the shaft axis with 396 N for distraction. The maximum torque value was measured around the frontal axis, being 74 N · m for antecurvature. These results may assist the development of new reduction techniques and devices. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 24:333–338, 2006
Raman spectroscopy of three polymorphs of BiVO4: clinobisvanite, dreyerite and pucherite, with comparisons to (VO4)3‐bearing minerals: namibite, pottsite and schumacherite
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Henry Dermot A. , Weier Matt L. , Martens Wayde
Published: January 2006

Both Raman and infrared spectroscopy have been used to characterise the three phase‐related minerals—dreyerite (tetragonal BiVO4), pucherite (orthorhombic BiVO4) and clinobisvanite (monoclinic BiVO4)—and a comparison of the spectra is made with that of the minerals namibite (Cu(BiO2)VO4(OH)), schumacherite (Bi3O(OH)(VO4)2) and pottsite (PbBiH(VO4)2·2H2O). Pucherite, clinobisvanite and namibite are characterised by VO4 stretching vibrations at 872, 824 and 846 cm−1. The Raman spectrum of dreyerite shows complexity in the 750 to 950 cm−1 region with two intense bands at 836 and 790 cm−1 assigned to the symmetric and antisymmetric VO4 modes. The minerals schumacherite and pottsite are characterised by bands at 846 and 874 cm−1. In both the infrared and Raman, spectra bands are observed in the 1000–1100 cm−1 region which are attributed to the antisymmetric stretching modes. The Raman spectra of the low wavenumber region are complex. Bands are identified in the 328 to 370 cm−1 region and in the 404 to 498 cm−1 region and are assigned to the ν2 and ν4 bending modes. The minerals namibite and schumacherite are characterised by intense bands at 3514 and 3589 cm−1 assigned to the symmetric stretching vibrations of the OH units. Importantly, Raman spectroscopy enables new insights into the chemistry of these bismuth vanadate minerals. Raman spectroscopy enables the identification of the bismuth vanadate minerals in mineral matrices where paragenetic relationships exist between the minerals. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectroscopy of hydrotalcites with phosphate in the interlayer: implications for the removal of phosphate from water
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Musumeci Anthony W. , Kloprogge J. Theo , Adebajo Moses O. , Martens Wayde N.
Published: January 2006

Hydrotalcites with phosphate in the interlayer were prepared at different pH values. At pH > 11.0 (PO4)3− was the intercalated ionic species, whereas at pH < 11.0 a mixture of (PO4)3− and (HPO4)2− ions was intercalated. Powder X‐ray diffraction shows that the hydrotalcite formed at pH 9.5 is poorly diffracting with a d‐spacing of 11.9 Å; whereas the d(003) spacing for the phosphate interlayered hydrotalcite formed at pH 11.9 and 12.5 was 8.0 and 7.9 Å respectively. The addition of a thermally activated ZnAl‐HT to a phosphate solution resulted in the uptake of the phosphate and the reformation of the hydrotalcite. Raman spectroscopy of the phosphate interlayered hydrotalcites shows that the interlayered anion is pH dependent and only above pH 11.9 is the orthophosphate anion intercalated. At lower pH, the monohydrogen phosphate anion is intercalated. Raman spectroscopy shows that upon addition of the thermally activated hydrotalcite to an aqueous phosphate solution, results in the uptake of phosphate anion from the solution. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early embryonic death‐associated changes in genome‐wide gene expression profiles in the fetal placenta of the cow carrying somatic nuclear‐derived cloned embryo
Authors: Oishi Masahito , Gohma Hiroshi , Hashizume Kazuyoshi , Taniguchi Yukio , Yasue Hiroshi , Takahashi Seiya , Yamada Takahisa , Sasaki Yoshiyuki
Published: January 2006

Successful somatic nuclear transfer‐derived cloning has been reported in cattle; however, the cloned embryo is highly susceptible to death around day 60 of gestation leading to early embryonic loss. The early embryonic death is postulated to possibly arise in part from an atypical placentation. We have performed cDNA macroarray analysis using 3,353 of the previously cataloged 4,165 genes, in order to characterize the early embryonic death‐associated changes in genome‐wide gene expression profiles in the fetal placenta of the cow carrying somatic nuclear transfer‐derived cloned embryo. A more marked difference in the expression profiles was observed between the fetal placentas of the cows with the cloned immotile embryo (CD) and with the cloned motile embryo (CL) or artificial insemination‐derived motile embryo (AI), as compared to between the CL and AI placentas, suggesting an aberration of the expression profile in the CD placenta among the three placentas. Further, 291 and 77 genes showed more than twofold elevation and less than 50% reduction, respectively, in either or both of two CD (CD1 and CD2) placentas in comparison with the CL placenta, but no differential expression between the CL and AI placentas. The expression patterns of six genes in the AI, CL, and CD placentas were confirmed in an experiment with an additional sample for each of the three placentas. Among the placental genes showing the early embryonic death‐associated changes of expression in the cow with the cloned embryo, IGF2 (elevated gene), and HBA1, HBA2, SPTB, and SPTBN1 genes (reduced gene) are intriguing in that the changes of expression in these genes were observed in an additional sample of CD placenta as well as the CD1 and CD2 placentas, and in that overexpression (for IGF2) and dysfunction or deficiency (for HBA1, HBA2, SPTB, and SPTBN1) result in embryonic lethality. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo expression of interferon tau mRNA by the embryonic trophoblast and uterine concentrations of interferon tau protein during early pregnancy in the cow
Authors: Robinson R.S. , Fray M.D. , Wathes D.C. , Lamming G.E. , Mann G.E.
Published: January 2006

In this study, we have measured uterine concentrations of interferon tau and intensity of embryonic interferon tau mRNA expression between day 14 and 18 in cows. While interferon tau concentrations rose dramatically (P < 0.001) from day 14 to 18, there was no significant increase in the intensity of expression of interferon tau mRNA by the trophoblast. When results were analyzed on the basis of embryo size, well elongated embryos (>10 cm) produced significantly (P < 0.001) more interferon tau than smaller embryos but showed similar levels of interferon tau mRNA expression. These results demonstrate that the increase in interferon tau concentrations responsible for the maternal recognition of pregnancy results from the increase in embryo size during elongation and not from any upregulation of mRNA expression. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Health‐promoting physical activity of adults with mental retardation
Authors: Stanish Heidi I. , Temple Viviene A. , Frey Georgia C.
Published: January 2006

This literature review describes the physical activity behavior of adults with mental retardation consistent with the U.S. Surgeon General's recommendation of 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on 5 or more days per week. The proportion of participants achieving this criterion ranges from 17.5 to 33%. These data are likely to be generous estimates of activity as individuals included in physical activity studies to date have been relatively young and healthy volunteers with mild to moderate limitations. Major sources of physical activity were walking and cycling for transport, chores and work, dancing, and Special Olympics. There is a pressing need to conduct studies using appropriately powered representative samples and to validate measures that assess physical activity less directly; including methodologies in which proxy respondents are used. Accurate information about existing patterns of behavior will enhance the development of effective strategies to promote physical activity among persons with mental retardation. MRDD Research Reviews 2006;12:13–21. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vision and oral health needs of individuals with intellectual disability
Authors: Owens Pamela L. , Kerker Bonnie D. , Zigler Edward , Horwitz Sarah M.
Published: January 2006

Over the past 20 years, there has been an increased emphasis on health promotion, including prevention activities related to vision and oral health, for the general population, but not for individuals with intellectual disability (ID). This review explores what is known about the prevalence of vision problems and oral health conditions among individuals with ID, presents a rationale for the increased prevalence of these conditions in the context of service utilization, and examines the limitations of the available research. Available data reveal a wide range of prevalence estimates for vision problems and oral health conditions, but all suggest that these conditions are more prevalent among individuals with ID compared with the general population, and disparities exist in the receipt of preventive and early treatment for these conditions for individuals with ID. Recommendations for health improvement in these areas include better health planning and monitoring through standardized population‐based data collection and reporting and increased emphasis on health promotion activities and early treatment in the healthcare system. MRDD Research Reviews 2006;12:28–40. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphological and immunophenotypic analysis of breast carcinomas with basal and myoepithelial differentiation
Authors: Rakha EA , Putti TC , Abd El‐Rehim DM , Paish C , Green AR , Powe DG , Lee AH , Robertson JF , Ellis IO
Published: January 2006

The aim of this study was to assess the morphological characteristics and immunohistochemical profile of breast carcinomas with basal and myoepithelial phenotypes to obtain a better understanding of their biological behaviour and nature. One thousand nine hundred and forty‐four invasive breast carcinomas were examined, using tissue microarray (TMA) technology and immunohistochemistry, to identify those tumours that showed basal and myoepithelial phenotypes, and their immunophenotype profile was characterized using a variety of markers. In addition, haematoxylin and eosin‐stained sections of these tumours were studied for several morphological parameters. The findings were correlated with patient and tumour characteristics and outcome data. Tumours were classified into two groups: (1) tumours with basal phenotype [expressing one or both basal markers (CK5/6 and/or CK14)] and (2) tumours with myoepithelial phenotype (expressing SMA and/or p63). Group 1 was further subdivided into two subgroups: (A) dominant basal pattern (more than 50% of cells positive) and (B) basal characteristics (10–50% of cells positive). Group 1 tumours constituted 18.6% (8.6% and 10% for groups 1A and 1B, respectively) and group 2 constituted 13.7% of the cases. In both groups, the most common histological types were ductal/no specific type, tubular mixed and medullary‐like carcinomas; the majority of these tumours were grade 3. There were positive associations with adenoid cystic growth pattern, loss of tubule formation, marked cellular pleomorphism, poorer Nottingham prognostic index, and development of distant metastasis. In addition, associations were found with loss of expression of steroid hormone receptors and FHIT proteins and positive expression of p53 and EGFR. The most common characteristics in group 1 were larger size, high‐grade comedo‐type necrosis, development of tumour recurrence, and absence of lymph node disease. Group 2 tumours were more common in younger patients and were associated with central acellular zones, basaloid change, and positive E‐cadherin protein expression. Group 1 characteristics were associated with both reduced overall survival (OS) [log rank (LR) = 22.5, p < 0.001] and reduced disease‐free interval (DFI) (LR = 30.1, p < 0.001), while group 2 characteristics showed an association with OS (LR = 5, p = 0.02) but not with DFI. Multivariate analysis showed that basal, but not myoepithelial, phenotype has an independent value in predicting outcome. Breast cancers with basal and myoepithelial phenotypes are distinct groups of tumours that share some common morphological features and an association with poor prognosis. The basal rather than the myoepithelial phenotype has the strongest relationship with patient outcome. Copyright © 2006 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lethal double infection with Acremonium strictum and Aspergillus fumigatus during induction chemotherapy in a child with ALL
Authors: Foell J. L. , Fischer M. , Seibold M. , Borneff‐Lipp M. , Wawer A. , Horneff G. , Burdach S.
Published: January 2006

Fungal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients during chemotherapeutic treatments and malignant hematologic disease. We present a case of a double fungal infection with disseminated Acremonium strictum (A. strictum) and pulmonary Aspergillus fumigatus (A. fumigatus) and its rapid clinical course. A 17‐year‐old boy with prolonged neutropenia developed a disseminated fungal infection during induction chemotherapy of his acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The infection was rapidly lethal despite neutrophil recovery and early antifungal combination therapy with amphotericin B and caspofungin. Since there are only a few reports about invasive Acremonium infections, we present this case with regard to differences in the clinic pathologic features of Aspergillosis and other opportunistic fungal infections due to Fusarium or Acremonium species. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:858–861. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Collection, storage, and infusion of stem cells in children with high‐risk neuroblastoma: Saving for a rainy day
Authors: Grupp Stephan A. , Cohn Susan L. , Wall Donna , Reynolds C. Patrick
Published: January 2006

In this position statement issued by the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Discipline and the Neuroblastoma Disease Committee of the Children's Oncology Group (COG), we address the feasibility and advisability of collecting sufficient peripheral blood stem cells in neuroblastoma patients to both support the planned initial HDC/SCR procedure(s) as well as allow for therapies, potentially utilized after a recurrence of disease, that may require PBSC support. An additional aliquot of cells for potential subsequent therapies could be collected at the time of the initial PBSC apheresis episode, by any of extending the collection time, extending the apheresis episode by a single day, or cryopreserving a separate aliquot from collections in which large numbers of CD34+ cells are collected. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pasteurella multocida lung and liver abscess in an immune‐competent child
Authors: Goussard P. , Gie R.P. , Steyn F. , Rossouw G.J. , Kling S.
Published: January 2006

We report on a 20‐month‐old infant with a complicated lung and liver abscess caused by Pasteurella multocida after the child had been in close contact with a domestic cat. Surgical drainage confirmed lung and liver abscesses connected to each other, with involvement of the diaphragm. Pediatr Pulmonol. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of low altitude at the Dead Sea on exercise capacity and cardiopulmonary response to exercise in cystic fibrosis patients with moderate to severe lung disease
Authors: Falk Bareket , Nini Asaph , Zigel Levana , Yahav Yaacov , Aviram Micha , Rivlin Joseph , Bentur Lea , Avital Avraham , Dotan Raffy , Blau Hannah
Published: January 2006

Oxygen supplementation may improve exercise tolerance and the physiological response to exercise in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Elevated barometric pressure at low altitude is a simple means of increasing the quantity of inspired oxygen. Our objectives were to examine the effect of natural oxygen enrichment (at the Dead Sea, 396 m below sea level) on exercise capacity, and the physiological responses to maximal and submaximal exercise in CF patients. Patients were tested twice: at sea level (barometric pressure, 754 ± 6 mmHg, mean ± SD), and at the Dead Sea (barometric pressure, 791 ± 3 mmHg), in a randomized crossover design. We studied 14 CF patients (6 females, 8 males), aged 15–45 years, with moderate to severe lung disease (mean forced expired volume in 1 sec = 50.0 ± 11.2% predicted). Tests at each site included resting spirometry, anthropometry, a graded submaximal exercise test, a maximal exercise test on a treadmill, and a 6‐min walk test. Tests were performed in identical order at both sites. Tests at the Dead Sea were performed 72 hr after arrival. No differences between sites were observed in lung function at rest. Peak oxygen consumption was significantly improved at the Dead Sea compared with sea level (1.68 ± 0.73 vs. 1.57 ± 0.74 l/min, respectively, P = 0.05), along with an improvement in the ventilatory equivalent for oxygen (41.2 ± 6.3 vs. 46.1 ± 7.1, respectively, P < 0.05). During submaximal exercise, blood oxygen saturation improved at the Dead Sea compared with sea level at all exercise intensities (P < 0.05). In conclusion, these results suggest that even a brief stay at the Dead Sea area may have physiological benefits for CF patients with moderate to severe lung disease. Pediatr Pulmonol. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pulmonary sarcoidosis in a 14‐year‐old boy diagnosed by low‐dose CT‐guided transthoracic lung biopsy
Authors: Heyer C.M. , Mueller K.M. , Seiffert P. , Nicolas V. , Rieger C.H.L. , Nuesslein T.G.
Published: January 2006

Pulmonary sarcoidosis is a rare disease in the pediatric age group, characterized by the presence of epitheloid‐cell granulomas. In stage 3 sarcoidosis, pulmonary infiltrates without hilar lymphadenopathy occur. Definitive diagnosis requires a histopathological specimen, which might be difficult to obtain by transbronchial biopsy. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT)‐guided transthoracic lung biopsy (TLB) is a well‐established procedure in adults, but has only rarely been applied in children.

A 14‐year‐old boy was admitted to hospital for evaluation of a chronic systemic disease with severe pulmonary manifestation. All investigations, including bronchosopy and bronchoalveolar lavage with microbiological and virological testing, had been negative. MDCT‐guided TLB was performed on a 16‐section scanner with a low‐dose protocol (single slices, 120 kV, 20 mAs), using a 16‐gauge biopsy device. The total effective dose was 0.4 mSv for the biopsy procedure. Histopathological examination revealed multiple epitheloid‐cell granulomas with giant cells in the absence of microbiological or virological abnormalities. A diagnosis of stage 3 pulmonary sarcoidosis was made and systemic anti‐inflammatory therapy was administered, which led to complete remission within weeks. MDCT‐guided TLB can be a valuable instrument in assessing pulmonary manifestations of pediatric sarcoidosis, enabling precise histopathological diagnosis and adequate therapy. The use of low‐dose protocols can substantially reduce radiation exposure without relevant loss of image information. MDCT‐guided lung biopsy should be considered prior to open‐lung surgery in selected patients with unclear pulmonary disease. Pediatr Pulmonol. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alcohol use in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome
Authors: Chen Maida Lynn , Turkel Susan Beckwitt , Jacobson Julienne R. , Keens Thomas G.
Published: January 2006

Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) is a rare disorder where there is failure of automatic control of breathing. With improved recognition of CCHS, more children are appropriately diagnosed and treated in infancy, allowing survival into adult years. Because most of these children are able to participate in regular school, they are exposed to common adolescent behaviors, such as abusing alcohol and drugs. Alcohol and many illicit substances are known respiratory depressants. We report on 3 cases of adolescents/young adults with CCHS who had severe adverse events related to alcohol, including coma and death. This series illustrates the dangers of alcohol abuse in CCHS. We speculate that adolescents with CCHS may be less able to perceive the risks of substance abuse and impulsive behavior, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. Patients with CCHS appear to lack anxiety and the awareness that their inability to perceive physiologically dangerous levels of hypercarbia and hypoxia deprives them of important protective mechanisms. Pediatr Pulmonol. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Protein kinase resource: An integrated environment for phosphorylation research
Authors: Niedner Roland H. , Buzko Oleksandr V. , Haste Nina M. , Taylor Ashton , Gribskov Michael , Taylor Susan S.
Published: January 2006

The protein kinase superfamily is an important group of enzymes controlling cellular signaling cascades. The increasing amount of available experimental data provides a foundation for deeper understanding of details of signaling systems and the underlying cellular processes. Here, we describe the Protein Kinase Resource, an integrated online service that provides access to information relevant to cell signaling and enables kinase researchers to visualize and analyze the data directly in an online environment. The data set is synchronized with Uniprot and Protein Data Bank (PDB) databases and is regularly updated and verified. Additional annotation includes interactive display of domain composition, cross‐references between orthologs and functional mapping to OMIM records. The Protein Kinase Resource provides an integrated view of the protein kinase superfamily by linking data with their visual representation. Thus, human kinases can be mapped onto the human kinome tree via an interactive display. Sequence and structure data can be easily displayed using applications developed for the PKR and integrated with the website and the underlying database. Advanced search mechanisms, such as multiparameter lookup, sequence pattern, and blast search, enable fast access to the desired information, while statistics tools provide the ability to analyze the relationships among the kinases under study. The integration of data presentation and visualization implemented in the Protein Kinase Resource can be adapted by other online providers of scientific data and should become an effective way to access available experimental information. Proteins 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Maritime Risk Assessment and its Current Status
Authors: Wang J.
Published: January 2006

In this paper, following a brief review of some notable marine and offshore accidents, the current status of maritime risk assessment is examined. Both the offshore safety case approach and formal safety assessment used in shipping are described. Discussions on relevant current research progress in maritime risk assessment are then given. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐variant Reliability of Nonlinear Structures: Application to a Representative Part of a Plate Floor
Authors: Cazuguel M. , Renaud C. , Cognard J. Y.
Published: January 2006

This paper is concerned with the feasibility study of time‐variant reliability analysis in the case of nonlinear structure behaviour. It is a very important point for designers in order to take into account the real behaviour of structures, which is often nonlinear, especially for naval structures (corrosion, welded joints, fatigue cracks, etc.). As an application, the time‐variant reliability of a part of a plate floor represented by a perforated plate with a visco‐plastic behaviour under a stochastic load is studied. The second point is to analyse the numerical cost of such a complex computation in order to obtain accurate numerical results. The mechanical model is defined using the finite‐element software CAST3M®. The stochastic load applied to the perforated plate is represented by the so‐called series Expansion Optimal Linear Estimation method developed by Li and Der Kiureghian. The time‐variant reliability analysis is computed by the PHI2 method, presented by Andrieu‐Renaudet al. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐order symplectic integration in quasi‐classical trajectory simulation: Case study for O(1D) + H2
Authors: Zhang Xin , Han Ke‐Li
Published: January 2006

Classical trajectory calculations for the O(1D) + H2 reaction system are employed to assess the effectiveness of the symplectic integrators. The sixth‐order symplectic integrator has been found to be the most suitable method for the quasi‐classical trajectory calculation of a long‐lived complex‐forming reaction system. In comparison with the traditional fourth‐order Runge–Kutta initialized fourth‐order Admas–Moulton–Hamming predictor‐corrector integrator (RK4‐AMH4), the sixth‐order symplectic integrator is six times less computationally expensive and exhibits better energy conservation. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2006
Fish environmental guilds as a tool for assessment of ecological condition of rivers
Authors: Welcomme R. L. , Winemiller K. O. , Cowx I. G.
Published: January 2006

The form, hydrology and functioning of rivers worldwide have been increasingly modified by a range of human activities. The impacts of these changes on the fish faunas of rivers need to be assessed for biodiversity conservation and fisheries management. Reliable and cost effective indicators of fish assemblage responses to hydrological, morphological and functional changes in a river are required. Given the large number of fish species present in many rivers, reliance on a single indicator species is problematic. The present paper proposes the use of environmental guilds for this purpose. Building on prior studies, we propose a series of environmental guilds based on common patterns of response by fish species to changes in river flow and geomorphology. A general framework consisting of two upland stream guilds, three lowland lentic guilds, four lowland lotic guilds, two generalist guilds and five estuarine guilds is proposed. Considering the large numbers of species present in many river and estuarine systems and the flexibility of their behaviour, many species will be difficult to classify. Further development of the proposed guild classification at the level of individual basins is anticipated, particularly in river systems with highly variable hydrology and many opportunistic species. Nevertheless, this general scheme would be easily and rapidly applied to a wide variety of local circumstance, as well as to the description of the general trends in fish population and assemblage structure occurring during river development. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Age‐related impact of neuropathic pain on animal behaviour
Authors: Pickering Gisèle , Jourdan Didier , Millecamps Magali , Chapuy Eric , Alliot Josette , Eschalier Alain
Published: January 2006

The number of old and very old persons is increasing and there is evidence that aging coincides with chronic painful conditions. Pain induces behavioural disorders that have been so far poorly identified in old and even less in very old animals. The aim of this study was to: (1) compare the evolution of pain in senescent animals (37‐39 months) to old (20–22 months) and young (4–6 months) Lou/cjall rats after a chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve; (2) evaluate pain during four weeks after surgery with an experimental and an observational approach to determine how the response to noxious stimuli correlates with recorded spontaneous behaviour. Results showed that senescent animals are less sensitive to neuropathic pain than old or young rats while senescent/old rats are more sensitive to acute pain. The correlation between observational and experimental pain scores stresses the reliability of non‐invasive measures for pain evaluation in senescent populations. The dichotomy between neuropathic and acute pain perceptions with age needs to be further investigated and would help to better understand the reasons of this uneven pain perception and expression with age.
One of the three proteinase inhibitor genes newly identified in the Brassica napus genome codes for an inhibitor of glutamyl endopeptidase
Authors: De Leo Francesca , Volpicella Mariateresa , Sciancalepore Marta , Gallerani Raffaele , Ceci Luigi R.
Published: January 2006

In germinating seeds, only the transcript of one gene, coding for a trypsin inhibitor, is detectable by Northern analysis. The other two genes are transcribed at basal levels detectable only by reverse transcription PCR. One of the other two genes (rti‐2) encodes a polypeptide with a glutamic residue in the P1 position, characteristic of glutamyl proteinase inhibitors. The recombinant RTI‐2 protein strongly inhibits (K
i
= 44 nM) a glutamyl proteinase from Streptomyces griseus.
Glyceraldehyde dehydrogenases from the thermoacidophilic euryarchaeota Picrophilus torridus and Thermoplasma acidophilum, key enzymes of the non‐phosphorylative Entner–Doudoroff pathway, constitute a novel enzyme family within the aldehyde dehydrogenase superfamily
Authors: Reher Matthias , Schönheit Peter
Published: January 2006

Cells of Picrophilus torridus, grown on glucose, contained all enzyme activities of a non‐phosphorylative Entner–Doudoroff pathway, including glucose dehydrogenase, gluconate dehydratase, 2‐keto‐3‐deoxygluconate aldolase, glyceraldehyde dehydrogenase (GADH), glycerate kinase (2‐phosphoglycerate forming), enolase and pyruvate kinase. GADH was purified to homogeneity. The 115‐kDa homodimeric protein catalyzed the oxidation of glyceraldehyde with NADP+ at highest catalytic efficiency. NAD+ was not used. By MALDI‐TOF analysis, open reading frame (ORF) Pto0332 was identified in the genome of P. torridus as the encoding gene, designated gadh, and the recombinant GADH was characterized. In Thermoplasma acidophilum ORF Ta0809 represents a gadh homolog with highest sequence identity; the gene was expressed and the recombinant protein was characterized as functional GADH with properties very similar to the P. torridus enzyme. Sequence comparison and phylogenetic analysis define both GADHs as members of novel enzyme family within the aldehyde dehydrogenase superfamily.
Binding of different monosaccharides by lectin PA‐IIL from Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Thermodynamics data correlated with X‐ray structures
Authors: Sabin Charles , Mitchell Edward P. , Pokorná Martina , Gautier Catherine , Utille Jean-Pierre , Wimmerová Michaela , Imberty Anne
Published: January 2006

The lectin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA‐IIL) is involved in host recognition and biofilm formation. Lectin not only displays an unusually high affinity for fucose but also binds to l‐fucose, l‐galactose and d‐arabinose that differ only by the group at position 5 of the sugar ring. Isothermal calorimetry experiments provided precise determination of affinity for the three methyl‐glycosides and revealed a large enthalpy contribution. The crystal structures of the complexes of PA‐IIL with l‐galactose and Met‐β‐d‐arabinoside have been determined and compared with the PA‐IIL/fucose complex described previously. A combination of the structures and thermodynamics provided clues for the role of the hydrophobic group in affinity.
Repression of SOX6 transcriptional activity by SUMO modification
Authors: Fernández-Lloris R. , Osses N. , Jaffray E. , Shen L.N. , Vaughan O.A. , Girwood D. , Bartrons R. , Rosa J.L. , Hay R.T. , Ventura F.
Published: January 2006

SOX6 plays key functions in several developmental processes, including neurogenesis and skeleton formation. In this report, we show that SOX6 is modified in vitro and in vivo by small ubiquitin‐related modifier (SUMO) on two distinct sites. Mutation of both sites abolished SOX6 sumoylation and increased SOX6 transcriptional activity. SUMO dependent repression of SOX6 transcription was promoted by UBC9 whereas siRNA to UBC9, cotransfection of inactive UBC9 or a SUMO protease increased SOX6 transcriptional activity. Furthermore, co‐expression of SOX6 with SUMO2 results in the appearance of SOX6 in a punctate nuclear pattern that colocalized with promyelocytic leukemia protein, which was partially abolished by mutations in SOX6 sumoylation sites.
Nuclear envelope localization of human UNC84A does not require nuclear lamins
Authors: Hasan Sameez , Güttinger Stephan , Mühlhäusser Petra , Anderegg Fabian , Bürgler Simone , Kutay Ulrike
Published: January 2006

The SUN proteins are a conserved family of proteins in eukaryotes. Human UNC84A (Sun1) is a homolog of Caenorhabditis elegans UNC‐84, a protein involved in nuclear anchorage and migration. We have analyzed targeting of UNC84A to the nuclear envelope (NE) and show that the N‐terminal 300 amino acids are crucial for efficient NE localization of UNC84A whereas the conserved C‐terminal SUN domain is not required. Furthermore, we demonstrate by combining RNA interference with immunofluorescence and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching analysis that localization and anchoring of UNC84A is not dependent on the lamin proteins, in contrast to what had been observed for C. elegans UNC‐84.
Early callosal absence disrupts the establishment of normal neocortical structure in Swiss mice
Authors: Ribeiro‐Carvalho Anderson , Manhães Alex C. , Abreu‐Villaça Yael , Filgueiras Cláudio C.
Published: January 2006

In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that the ontogenetic development of the corpus callosum is relevant for the establishment of a normal neocortical structure. To that effect, neocortical morphology (thickness and neuronal density) was analyzed in adult Swiss mice rendered acallosal by midline transection at the first postnatal day (Acallosal group) and in non‐manipulated mice. The neocortical thicknesses and neuronal densities of layers II + III through VI were measured in area 6 and at the 17/18a border, both of which present abundant callosal inputs, and in the relatively acallosal area 17. For the thickness measure, significant differences between Non‐manipulated and Acallosal groups were only found in the areas that receive massive callosal connections. In area 6, Acallosal mice presented a reduced thickness of layer V, while at the 17/18a border, these mice presented a reduced thickness of layers II + III when compared to non‐manipulated ones. No statistical difference between acallosal and non‐manipulated mice was found regarding the neuronal density measure. The reduced cortical thickness associated with a comparatively normal neuronal density in neocortical regions which normally have abundant callosal connections suggest a reduction in the number of cortical neurons in acallosal mice. Altogether, the present data indicate that the input provided by callosal axons is necessary for the normal development of the neocortex.
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) attenuates cerebral vasospasm after experimental subarachnoidal haemorrhage by increasing brain nitric oxide levels
Authors: Aladag M. Arif , Turkoz Yusuf , Ozcan Cemal , Sahna Engin , Parlakpınar Hakan , Akpolat Nusret , Cigremis Yilmaz
Published: January 2006

Background

Cerebral vasospasm, a medical complication of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates, even after the aneurysm has been secured surgically or endovascularly. Evidence accumulated during the last decade suggest that scavenging a vasodilator, nitric oxide (NO), by superoxide anions (O2−), and activating a strong vasoconstructor, protein kinase C (PKC), are the two most important mechanisms in the pathogenesis of vasospasm. Our aim in this study was to determine whether caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a non‐toxic oxygen free radical scavenger, prevents vasospasm in an experimental rat model of SAH.

Methods

Twenty eight rats (225–250 g) were divided into four groups equally: group 1, control group; group 2, SAH group; group 3, SAH plus placebo group; and group 4, SAH plus CAPE group. We used double haemorrhage method for SAH groups. Starting 6 h after SAH, 10 μmol/kg CAPE or an equal volume of 0.9% saline were administered by intraperitoneal injection twice daily for 5 days to SAH plus CAPE and SAH plus placebo groups, respectively. CAPE or 0.9% saline injections were continued up to 5th day after SAH. Rats were sacrificed on the 5th day. Brain sections at the level of the pons were examined by light microscopy. Measurements were made for the cross‐sectional areas of the lumen and the vessel wall (intimae plus media) of basilar artery by a micrometer. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO) were measured in rat brain tissue.

Results

Administration of CAPE significantly attenuated the vasoconstriction of the basilar artery. There were marked narrowing in the lumens of and thickening in the walls of basilar arteries in the SAH, and the SAH plus placebo compared with CAPE group (p < 0.001). We also observed that CAPE administration significantly decreased the tissue level of MDA, while significantly increased the tissue levels of GSH, NO in the SAH plus CAPE group compared to only SAH group, p < 0.05.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that CAPE is effective in attenuating delayed cerebral vasoconstriction following experimental SAH. Our findings also suggest that the elevation of lipid peroxidation and reduction of NO bioavailability, resulting from the generation and the interaction of free radicals, have a significant role in the pathogenesis of vasospasm after SAH.
The effect of addressing demand for as well as supply of emergency obstetric care in Dinajpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain J. , Ross S.R.
Published: January 2006

Purpose: The Dinajpur SafeMother Initiative (DSI) was designed to test the impact of several interventions on use of obstetric services in government health facilities in Northwestern Bangladesh during 1998–2001. Intervention: Facility‐based interventions included upgrading health facilities. The sub‐district hospitals or Upazila Health Centers (UHCs) had earlier been upgraded to provide basic emergency obstetric care (BEmOC). This project undertook activities designed to improved the quality of care in the facilities which included team‐building among providers, case reviews and a stakeholders' committee. CARE introduced a community mobilization intervention, which included birth planning, community support systems for funding, transportation, blood donation etc. for care of women with complications. Methods: The intervention area received all interventions. The only intervention in the comparison area was the upgrading of the health facilities to provide basic EmOC. There were no interventions in the control area. Results: Met need increased by 13% in comparison area but nearly 24% in intervention area. There was no substantial change in the control area. At the end of the project, knowledge of obstetric danger signs was much greater in intervention area than in the other 2 areas. Conclusion: We conclude, therefore, that the best results are achieved through a combination of facility improvement, quality of care activities and targeted community mobilization activities.
The use of graft materials in vaginal pelvic floor surgery
Authors: Huebner M. , Hsu Y. , Fenner D.E.
Published: January 2006

Objective

To review recent literature on graft materials used in vaginal pelvic floor surgery.

Methods

A Pubmed‐search (“anterior vaginal wall” or “cystocele”), (“posterior vaginal wall” or “rectocele”) and (“vaginal vault” or “pelvic prolapse”) and (“mesh” or “erosion” or “graft” or “synthetic”) from 1995 to 2005 was performed; recent reviews [Birch C. The use of prosthetics in pelvic reconstructive surgery. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2005;19:979–91 [1]; Maher C, Baessler K. Surgical management of anterior vaginal wall prolapse: an evidence‐based literature review. Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct 2005 (May 25) [Electronic Publication] [2]; Maher C, Baessler K. Surgical management of posterior vaginal wall prolapse: an evidence‐based literature review. Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct 2006;17:84–8 [3]; Altman D, Mellgren A, Zetterstrom J. Rectocele repair using biomaterial augmentation: current documentation and clinical experience. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2005;60:753–60 [4]] were added.

Result

There are few prospective randomized trials that prove the benefit of implanting grafts in vaginal pelvic floor surgery. Many articles are retrospective case series with small sample sizes or incomplete outcome variables. Serious complications such as erosions are often not mentioned. Inconsistent or unclear criteria for anatomic cure make it difficult to compare outcomes. Quality of life issues such as dyspareunia, urinary or bowel symptoms are often ignored.

Conclusion

Due to a lack of well‐designed prospective randomized trials, recommendations for using graft materials in vaginal reconstructive surgery cannot be made. At this time, grafts should have limited use in a carefully selected patient population.
Serological survey of vector-borne zoonotic pathogens in pet cats and cats from animal shelters and feral colonies
Authors: Case Joseph Brad , Chomel Bruno , Nicholson William , Foley Janet E.
Published: January 2006

Although cats and their arthropod parasites can sometimes be important sources of zoonotic diseases in humans, the extent of exposure among various cat populations to many potential zoonotic agents remains incompletely described. In this study, 170 domestic cats living in private homes, feral cat colonies, and animal shelters from California and Wisconsin were evaluated by serology to determine the levels of exposure to a group of zoonotic vector-borne pathogens. Serological positive test results were observed in 17.2% of cats for Rickettsia rickettsii, 14.9% for R akari, 4.9% for R typhi, 11.1% for R felis, and 14.7% for Bartonella henselae. Although vector-borne disease exposure has been documented previously in cats, the evaluation of multiple pathogens and diverse cat populations simultaneously performed here contributes to our understanding of feline exposure to these zoonotic pathogens.
Lesbian Carers: Personal Issues and Policy Responses
Authors: Manthorpe Jill , Price Elizabeth
Published: January 2006

Public and political attitudes towards lesbians have been slow to change in the UK. A number of recent legislative reforms, however, will alter the personal and political landscape for women who do not identify as heterosexual. This article explores the reported experiences of lesbians in the UK, concentrating on those who provide care for others, be this in a personal and/or professional context, and reviews the way in which legal and social changes look set to impact on them. Three distinct areas are examined by drawing on recent research: lesbian parents, lesbian carers and lesbians working in the care sector. Common themes and differences are identified and discussed.

The article concludes that the UK government is becoming more proactive in its response to lesbian lifestyles, particularly in respect of those who have, or intend to have children. The overall approach, though based upon sound principles of civil rights, is piecemeal. In all three of the areas covered, lesbians face continued discrimination and inequality. The discussion draws attention to the need to consider such issues across the life-course and for policy makers to recognise that lesbians may have multiple social roles as parents, carers and care workers.
Making it through the Criminal Justice System: Attrition and Domestic Violence
Authors: Hester Marianne
Published: January 2006

This article explores the process of attrition, where domestic violence cases fail to make it through the criminal justice system and do not result in criminal conviction. The article draws on the hitherto most detailed study of such attrition in the UK. The research, carried out across the Northumbria Police Force area, explored the quantitative attrition of domestic violence cases, from reporting to the police to final court outcome, contextualising this via the experiences of individuals (mainly women) victimised by domestic violence as well as the perspectives and practices of the police, prosecutors, the courts and non-criminal justice agencies.