bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Common P450 Oxidoreductase Variant A503V Is Not a Modifier Gene for 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency
Authors: Gomes Larissa G. , Huang Ningwu , Agrawal Vishal , Mendonça Berenice B. , Bachega Tania A. S. S. , Miller Walter L.
Published: April 2008

Context: 21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) is a common genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CYP21A2 gene, which encodes the adrenal 21-hydroxylase, microsomal P450c21. CYP21A2 gene mutations generally correlate well with impaired P450c21 enzymatic activity and the clinical findings in 21OHD, but occasional discrepancies between genotype and phenotype suggest the effects of modifier genes. Mutations in P450 oxidoreductase (POR), the protein that transfers electrons from reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate to all microsomal P450s, can ameliorate the 21OHD phenotype and, therefore, could be a modifier gene.

Objectives: We sought to identify POR variants in patients with 21OHD having discordant phenotype and genotype, and to evaluate their effect on 21-hydroxylase activity.

Patients and Methods: We determined the CYP21A2 genotypes of 313 Brazilian patients with 21OHD and correlated the genotype and phenotype. The POR gene was sequenced in 17 patients with discordant genotype and phenotype. Wild-type and A503V POR, and P450c21 were expressed in bacteria and reconstituted in vitro. Activities were assayed by conversion of [14C]progesterone to deoxycorticosterone and [3H]17-hydroxyprogesterone to 11-deoxycortisol, and assessed by thin layer chromatography and phosphorimaging.

Results: The A503V POR variant was found in 10 of 30 alleles, the same ratio as in the normal population. There were no significant differences in Michaelis constant, maximum velocity and maximum velocity/Michaelis constant of 21-hydroxylase activity supported by wild-type and A503V POR.

Conclusion: The only POR missense polymorphism found in atypical 21OHD patients was A503V. Although A503V reduces P450c17 enzymatic activity, it does not influence P450c21 activity, indicating that POR A503V does not modify the 21OHD phenotype.
What Should We Do with Postprocess Theory?
Authors: Heard Matthew
Published: April 2008

The question guiding “What Should We Do with Postprocess Theory?” is one of praxis: postprocess theory has articulated an advanced and promising theory of rhetoric in action, but few attempts have been made to develop a postprocess pedagogy. This article suggests several ways that postprocess ideals can be adapted to existing teaching strategies.
Dynamics of an F-actin aggresome generated by the actin-stabilizing toxin jasplakinolide
Authors: Lázaro-Diéguez Francisco , Aguado Carmen , Mato Eugenia , Sánchez-Ruíz Yován , Esteban Inmaculada , Alberch Jordi , Knecht Erwin , Egea Gustavo
Published: April 2008

In this study, we report the formation of several cytoplasmic inclusion bodies composed of filamentous actin (F-actin) and generated by experimental treatments using depolymerizing or stabilizing actin toxins in neuronal and non-neuronal mammalian cell lines. The actin-stabilizing toxin jasplakinolide (Jpk) induced, in a microtubule-dependent manner, a single, large F-actin aggregate, which contained β- and γ-actin, ADF/cofilin, cortactin, and the actin nucleator Arp2/3. This aggregate was tightly associated with the Golgi complex and mitochondria, and was surrounded by vimentin intermediate filaments, microtubules and MAP4. Therefore, the Jpk-induced single, large F-actin aggregate fits the established criteria for being considered an aggresome. Lysosomes and/or autophagic vacuoles, proteasomes and microtubules were found to directly participate in the dissolution of this F-actin aggresome. Finally, the model reported here is simple, highly reproducible and reversible, and it provides an opportunity to test pharmacological agents that interfere with the formation, maintenance and/or disappearance of F-actin-enriched pathological inclusion bodies.
Control of thrombin signaling through PI3K is a mechanism underlying plasticity between hair follicle dermal sheath and papilla cells
Authors: Feutz Anne-Catherine , Barrandon Yann , Monard Denis
Published: April 2008

In hair follicles, dermal papilla (DP) and dermal sheath (DS) cells exhibit striking levels of plasticity, as each can regenerate both cell types. Here, we show that thrombin induces a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt pathway-dependent acquisition of DS-like properties by DP cells in vitro, involving increased proliferation rate, acquisition of `myofibroblastic' contractile properties and a decreased capacity to sustain growth and survival of keratinocytes. The thrombin inhibitor protease nexin 1 [PN-1, also known as SERPINE2) regulates all those effects in vitro. Accordingly, the PI3K-Akt pathway is constitutively activated and expression of myofibroblastic marker smooth-muscle actin is enhanced in vivo in hair follicle dermal cells from PN-1–/– mice. Furthermore, physiological PN-1 disappearance and upregulation of the thrombin receptor PAR-1 (also known as F2R) during follicular regression in wild-type mice also correlate with such changes in DP cell characteristics. Our results indicate that control of thrombin signaling interferes with hair follicle dermal cells plasticity to regulate their function.
Asymmetric localization of the adaptor protein Miranda in neuroblasts is achieved by diffusion and sequential interaction of Myosin II and VI
Authors: Erben Veronika , Waldhuber Markus , Langer Diana , Fetka Ingrid , Jansen Ralf Peter , Petritsch Claudia
Published: April 2008

The adaptor protein Miranda plays a pivotal role in the asymmetric cell division of neuroblasts by asymmetrically segregating key differentiation factors. Miranda localization requires Myosin VI and Myosin II. The apical-then-basal localization pattern of Miranda detected in fixed tissue, and the localization defects in embryos lacking Myosin VI, suggest that Miranda is transported to the basal pole as a Myosin VI cargo. However, the mode and temporal sequence of Miranda localization have not been characterized in live embryos. Furthermore, it is unknown whether Miranda and PON, a second adaptor protein required for asymmetric protein localization, are both regulated by Myosin II. By combining immunofluorescence studies with time-lapse confocal microscopy, we show that Miranda protein forms an apical crescent at interphase, but is ubiquitously localized at prophase in a Myosin-II-dependent manner. FRAP analysis revealed that Miranda protein reaches the basal cortex by passive diffusion throughout the cell, rather than by long-range Myosin VI-directed transport. Myosin VI acts downstream of Myosin II in the same pathway to deliver diffusing Miranda to the basal cortex. PON localization occurs mainly along the cortex and requires Myosin II but not Myosin VI, suggesting that distinct mechanisms are employed to localize different adaptor proteins during asymmetric cell division.
Inhibition of β-catenin signaling causes defects in postnatal cartilage development
Authors: Chen Mo , Zhu Mei , Awad Hani , Li Tian-Fang , Sheu Tzong-Jen , Boyce Brendan F. , Chen Di , O'Keefe Regis J.
Published: April 2008

The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is essential for normal skeletal development because conditional gain or loss of function of β-catenin in cartilage results in embryonic or early postnatal death. To address the role of β-catenin in postnatal skeletal growth and development, Col2a1-ICAT transgenic mice were generated. Mice were viable and had normal size at birth, but became progressively runted. Transgene expression was limited to the chondrocytes in the growth plate and articular cartilages and was associated with decreased β-catenin signaling. Col2a1-ICAT transgenic mice showed reduced chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation, and an increase in chondrocyte apoptosis, leading to decreased widths of the proliferating and hypertrophic zones, delayed formation of the secondary ossification center, and reduced skeletal growth. Isolated primary Col2a1-ICAT transgenic chondrocytes showed reduced expression of chondrocyte genes associated with maturation, and demonstrated that VEGF gene expression requires cooperative interactions between BMP2 and β-catenin signaling. Altogether the findings confirm a crucial role for Wnt/β-catenin in postnatal growth.
αE-catenin is not a significant regulator of β-catenin signaling in the developing mammalian brain
Authors: Lien Wen-Hui , Klezovitch Olga , Null Manda , Vasioukhin Valeri
Published: April 2008

β-catenin is a crucial mediator of the canonical Wnt-signaling pathway. α-catenin is a major β-catenin-binding protein, and overexpressed α-catenin can negatively regulate β-catenin activity. Thus, α-catenin may be an important modulator of the Wnt pathway. We show here that endogenous α-catenin has little impact on the transcriptional activity of β-catenin in developing mammalian organisms. We analyzed β-catenin signaling in mice with conditional deletion of αE-catenin (Ctnna1) in the developing central nervous system. This mutation results in brain hyperplasia and we investigated whether activation of β-catenin signaling may be at least partially responsible for this phenotype. To reveal potential quantitative or spatial changes in β-catenin signaling, we used mice carrying a β-catenin-signaling reporter transgene. In addition, we analyzed the expression of known endogenous targets of the β-catenin pathway and the amount and localization of β-catenin in mutant progenitor cells. We found that although loss of αE-catenin resulted in disruption of intercellular adhesion and hyperplasia in the developing brain, β-catenin signaling was not altered. We conclude that endogenous αE-catenin has no significant impact on β-catenin transcriptional activities in the developing mammalian brain.
Bone marrow side population cells are enriched for progenitors capable of myogenic differentiation
Authors: Luth Eric S. , Jun Susan J. , Wessen McKenzie K. , Liadaki Kalliopi , Gussoni Emanuela , Kunkel Louis M.
Published: April 2008

Although the contribution of bone marrow-derived cells to regenerating skeletal muscle has been repeatedly documented, there remains considerable debate as to whether this incorporation is exclusively a result of inflammatory cell fusion to regenerating myofibers or whether certain populations of bone marrow-derived cells have the capacity to differentiate into muscle. The present study uses a dual-marker approach in which GFP+ cells were intravenously transplanted into lethally irradiated β-galactosidase+ recipients to allow for simple determination of donor and host contribution to the muscle. FACS analysis of cardiotoxin-damaged muscle revealed that CD45+ bone-marrow side-population (SP) cells, a group enriched in hematopoietic stem cells, can give rise to CD45–/Sca-1+/desmin+ cells capable of myogenic differentiation. Moreover, after immunohistochemical examination of the muscles of both SP- and whole bone marrow-transplanted animals, we noted the presence of myofibers composed only of bone marrow-derived cells. Our findings suggest that a subpopulation of bone marrow SP cells contains precursor cells whose progeny have the potential to differentiate towards a muscle lineage and are capable of de novo myogenesis following transplantation and initiation of muscle repair via chemical damage.
Slk1 is a meiosis-specific Sid2-related kinase that coordinates meiotic nuclear division with growth of the forespore membrane
Authors: Pérez-Hidalgo Livia , Rozalén Ana Elisa , Martín-Castellanos Cristina , Moreno Sergio
Published: April 2008

Septation and spore formation in fission yeast are compartmentalization processes that occur during the mitotic and meiotic cycles, and that are regulated by the septation initiation network (SIN). In mitosis, activation of Sid2 protein kinase transduces the signal from the spindle pole body (SPB) to the middle of the cell in order to promote the constriction of the actomyosin ring. Concomitant with ring contraction, membrane vesicles are added at the cleavage site to enable the necessary expansion of the cell membrane. In meiosis, the forespore membrane is synthesized from the outer layers of the SPB by vesicle fusion. This membrane grows and eventually engulfs each of the four haploid nuclei. The molecular mechanism that connects the SIN pathway with synthesis of the forespore membrane is poorly understood. Here, we describe a meiosis-specific Sid2-like kinase (Slk1), which is important for the coordination of the growth of the forespore membrane with the meiotic nuclear divisions. Slk1 and Sid2 are required for forespore membrane biosynthesis and seem to be the final output of the SIN pathway in meiosis.
β-catenin promotes self-renewal of skeletal-muscle satellite cells
Authors: Perez-Ruiz Ana , Ono Yusuke , Gnocchi Viola F. , Zammit Peter S.
Published: April 2008

Satellite cells are the resident stem cells of adult skeletal muscle. As with all stem cells, how the choice between self-renewal or differentiation is controlled is central to understanding their function. Here, we have explored the role of β-catenin in determining the fate of myogenic satellite cells. Satellite cells express β-catenin, and expression is maintained as they activate and undergo proliferation. Constitutive retroviral-driven expression of wild-type or stabilised β-catenin results in more satellite cells expressing Pax7 without any MyoD – therefore, adopting the self-renewal pathway, with fewer cells undergoing myogenic differentiation. Similarly, preventing the degradation of endogenous β-catenin by inhibiting GSK3β activity also results in more Pax7-positive–MyoD-negative (Pax7+MyoD–) satellite-cell progeny. Consistent with these observations, downregulation of β-catenin using small interfering RNA (siRNA) reduced the proportion of satellite cells that express Pax7 and augmented myogenic differentiation after mitogen withdrawal. Since a dominant-negative version of β-catenin had the same effect as silencing β-catenin using specific siRNA, β-catenin promotes self-renewal via transcriptional control of target genes. Thus, β-catenin signalling in proliferating satellite cells directs these cells towards the self-renewal pathway and, so, contributes to the maintenance of this stem-cell pool in adult skeletal muscle.
Temperature Dependence of Physical Constants of Monofluorinated Propylene Carbonate as Highly Polar Liquid
Authors: Nanbu Noritoshi , Takimoto Kazuki , Suzuki Keita , Ohtake Manabu , Hagiyama Kousuke , Takehara Masahiro , Ue Makoto , Sasaki Yukio
Published: April 2008

We describe the temperature dependence of relative permittivity (εr), mass density (ρ), refractive index (nD), and dynamic viscosity (η) of monofluorinated propylene carbonate (FPC) as a highly polar liquid. The physical properties are compared with those of propylene carbonate (PC). The value of εr of FPC is as large as 196 even at 20 °C. The ρ and η of FPC are also much higher than those of PC.
A Convenient Inorganic Solvent Thermal Route to Nanocrystalline Tantalum Diboride
Authors: Ma Jianhua , Du Yihong
Published: April 2008

Nanocrystalline TaB2 has been prepared via a simple inorganic solvent thermal route by the reaction of metallic magnesium powders with tantalum pentoxide and boric acid in an autoclave at 650 °C. X-ray powder diffraction patterns indicate that the product was hexagonal tantalum diboride. Scanning electron microscopy images show that it consisted of particles with an average size of about 40 nm. The product was also studied by BET and TGA.
A Simple and Efficient Protocol for Chlorination of Baylis–Hillman Adducts Using PPh3/CCl4
Authors: Das Biswanath , Kanth Boddu Shashi , Reddy Kongara Ravinder , Satyalakshmi Gandham , Kumar Rathod Aravind
Published: April 2008

PPh3/CCl4 system has been employed for the stereoselective synthesis of (Z)- and (E)-allyl chlorides from Baylis–Hillman adducts in excellent yields.
An Acid Dissociation Constant (pKa)-based Screening of Chemical Absorbents that Preferably Capture and Release Pressurized Carbon Dioxide for Greenhouse Gas Control
Authors: Tomizaki Kin-ya , Shimizu Shinkichi , Onoda Masami , Fujioka Yuichi
Published: April 2008

We describe an acid dissociation constant (pKa)-based screening of chemical absorbents to treat a gas stream containing carbon dioxide (CO2) in a wide range of partial pressures (0.1–4 MPa). The solubility differences of CO2 in aqueous amine solutions at 40 and 70 °C plotted against pKa revealed volcano-shaped profiles. The availability of amines with pKa values suitable for capture/release cycles of CO2 with targeted partial pressures shows that the pKa-based screening method would be useful to develop advanced greenhouse gas control technologies.
Role of Hydroxocobalamin in Acute Cyanide Poisoning
Authors: Shepherd Greene , Velez Larissa I
Published: April 2008

Objective:

To review the recently approved cyanide antidote, hydroxocobalamin, and describe its role in therapy.

Data Sources:

Relevant publications were identified through a systematic search of PubMed using the MeSH terms and key words hydroxocobalamin and cyanide. This search was then limited to human studies published since 2000. Systematic searches were conducted through January 2008. References from identified articles were reviewed for additional pertinent human studies.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

The literature search retrieved 7 studies on the safety and/or efficacy of hydroxocobalamin in humans. Four new studies were identified by the search and 3 studies were identified from the references.

Data Synthesis:

Studies of antidote efficacy in humans are ethically and logistically difficult. A preclinical study demonstrated that intravenous doses of hydroxocobalamin 5 g are well tolerated by volunteer subjects. Hydroxocobalamin has been shown to reduce cyanide concentrations in controlled studies of nitroprusside therapy and in heavy smokers. A retrospective study of 14 acute cyanide poisonings also demonstrated hydroxocobalamin's safety and efficacy. Two studies examining hydroxocobalamin for smoke inhalation-associated cyanide poisoning indicated a possible benefit, but they are insufficient to establish definitive criteria for use in this setting. Randomized controlled trials of hydroxocobalamin and traditional cyanide antidotes (nitrites/thiosulfate) are lacking.

Conclusions:

Cyanide poisoning can rapidly cause death. Having an effective antidote readily available is essential for facilities that provide emergency care. In cases of cyanide ingestion, both the nitrite/thiosulfate combination and hydroxocobalamin are effective antidotes. Hydroxocobalamin offers an improved safety profile lor children and pregnant women. Hydroxocobalamin also appears to have a better safety profile in the setting of cyanide poisoning in conjunction with smoke inhalation. However, current data are insufficient to recommend the empiric administration of hydroxocobalamin to all victims of smoke inhalation.
Application of FDA Adverse Event Report Data to the Surveillance of Dietary Botanical Supplements
Authors: Wallace Robert B , Gryzlak Brian M , Zimmerman M Bridget , Nisly Nicole L
Published: April 2008

Background:

Concerns have been raised about the sufficiency of dietary botanical supplement (DBS) surveillance in the US. The Food and Drug Administration's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition's Adverse Event Reporting System (CAERS) represents one of the few existing surveillance mechanisms, but it has not been well characterized with respect to DBS adverse effects.

Objective:

To characterize data on DBSs associated with adverse event reports submitted to CAERS.

Methods:

We requested and obtained CAERS data from 1999 to 2003 involving adverse effects associated with the 6 most frequently used DBSs: Echinacea, ginseng, garlic, Ginkgo biloba, St. John's wort, and peppermint. We summarized and characterized the adverse event reports received, focusing on the composition of the DBSs and the nature of associated adverse events. We also cross-referenced reported single-ingredient DBSs with corresponding available product information. A sample of CAERS cases associated with signal DBSs was also characterized in detail.

Results:

CAERS reports involving ginseng DBSs were most frequently reported during the study period, whereas reports involving St. John's wort were the least frequently reported. Most CAERS reports involved multiple-ingredient DBSs, and 3-13% of reports involved multiple DBSs. Gastrointestinal and neurologic problems were the most common clinical outcomes among single-ingredient DBS-associated adverse events.

Conclusions:

CAERS surveillance of DBS adverse effects is potentially as effective as other passive surveillance methods, but the number of reports is relatively small, validation is incomplete, and some inconsistencies within reports were found. Reports in CAERS may underrepresent DBS adverse events associated with DBS consumption.
Mid-Infrared Diffuse Reflection of a Strongly Absorbing Analyte on Non-Absorbing and Absorbing Matrices. Part II: Thin Liquid Layers on Powdered Substrates
Authors: Averett Lacey A. , Griffiths Peter R.
Published: April 2008

The average total path length traveled by photons in mid-infrared diffuse reflection spectrometry of powdered potassium chloride matrices coated with a thin layer of silicone oil has been estimated. The average path length of the photons that had passed through the silicone oil layer was first calculated by the application of the Beer–Lambert law. The total path length through the coated particles was then estimated by dividing the path length of the silicone oil by its concentration. The average path length of the photons that had been diffusely reflected from KCl particles with an average diameter of ∼5 μm that had been coated with a very thin layer of the silicone oil (corresponding to a concentration of 0.01% w:w) was estimated to be about 8 mm. This path length was significantly reduced either as the silicone oil concentration or the absorption of the matrix was increased. The result helps to explain why diffuse reflection spectrometry is a far poorer sampling technique for trace analysis when the matrix has strong absorption and why diffuse reflection is not a very promising technique for the standoff detection of nonvolatile chemical warfare agents.
Mid-Infrared Diffuse Reflection of a Strongly Absorbing Analyte on Non-Absorbing and Absorbing Matrices. Part I: Homogeneous Powders
Authors: Averett Lacey A. , Griffiths Peter R.
Published: April 2008

KBr disks of caffeine were prepared quantitatively so that the absorptivity of caffeine in this environment could be measured. The disks were then ground up finely and their diffuse reflection spectrum was measured. The average path length traveled by remitted photons was then calculated by the simple application of the Beer-Lambert law. The path length that an average photon travels within a finely powdered matrix of KBr is approximately 4 mm when the concentration of a uniformly dispersed, strongly absorbing analyte such as caffeine is 0.01% or less. This path length then decreases as the concentration of the analyte increases as more photons are absorbed by the analyte. When carbon black is added to the mixture of caffeine and KBr and the measurements are repeated, the effective path length drops even further. The average photon that is remitted from a fine infrared-transparent powder containing a very low concentration of an analyte has been shown to encounter at least 400 particles, indicating a highly random path. The more strongly the matrix absorbs, the shorter the path length. When 0.1% of carbon black is added to the disk, the path length drops to about 100 μm.
Photophysics of 9,10-Anthracenediol and a Bifunctional Sacrificial Template in Solution and Xerogels
Authors: Holthoff Ellen L. , Bright Frank V.
Published: April 2008

Site selectively templated and tagged xerogels (SSTTX) represent a new sensing platform. Although this platform has several attractive features, the template formation process is not fully understood. To address this issue we have explored the photophysics of two model compounds (9,10-anthracenediol and a bifunctional sacrificial template (BST)) when dissolved in solution and when sequestered within a xerogel. The solution experiments show that the carbamate tethers on the BST (which are eventually cleaved to form the analyte responsive sites that make up the SSTTX) do not alter the anthracene residue's intrinsic photophysics. In contrast, 9,10-anthracenediol and BST molecules sequestered within a xerogel sense and report from a distribution of microenvironments. The distribution mean values are very similar, but the variance is statistically greater for the BST-doped xerogel in comparison to the 9,10-anthracenediol-doped xerogel. The most likely causes of this behavior are heterogeneity and electron and energy transfer processes that are controlled by differences in the position/orientation of the anthracene moiety at the pore surface in the Class I (9,10-anthracenediol) and Class II (BST) xerogels. These results also suggest that the initial template sites produced during the SSTTX formation process are not discrete; they are intrinsically more diverse (maybe 30%) in comparison to the types of template sites created by traditional molecular imprinting strategies. However, our previously reported SSTTX binding studies do not reveal any evidence for a distribution of analyte-to-SSTTX binding. This apparently anomalous behavior may result because the relative standard deviation of the binding process is intrinsically small and/or one or more of the steps that follow template site formation attenuate the final template site distribution within the SSTTX.
Standoff Detection of Chemical and Biological Threats Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Gottfried Jennifer L. , De Lucia Frank C. , Munson Chase A. , Miziolek Andrzej W.
Published: April 2008

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is a promising technique for real-time chemical and biological warfare agent detection in the field. We have demonstrated the detection and discrimination of the biological warfare agent surrogates Bacillus subtilis (BG) (2% false negatives, 0% false positives) and ovalbumin (0% false negatives, 1% false positives) at 20 meters using standoff laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (ST-LIBS) and linear correlation. Unknown interferent samples (not included in the model), samples on different substrates, and mixtures of BG and Arizona road dust have been classified with reasonable success using partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). A few of the samples tested such as the soot (not included in the model) and the 25% BG:75% dust mixture resulted in a significant number of false positives or false negatives, respectively. Our preliminary results indicate that while LIBS is able to discriminate biomaterials with similar elemental compositions at standoff distances based on differences in key intensity ratios, further work is needed to reduce the number of false positives/negatives by refining the PLS-DA model to include a sufficient range of material classes and carefully selecting a detection threshold. In addition, we have demonstrated that LIBS can distinguish five different organophosphate nerve agent simulants at 20 meters, despite their similar stoichiometric formulas. Finally, a combined PLS-DA model for chemical, biological, and explosives detection using a single ST-LIBS sensor has been developed in order to demonstrate the potential of standoff LIBS for universal hazardous materials detection.
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy for Determination of the Organic Oxygen Content in Anthracite Coal under Atmospheric Conditions
Authors: Zhang Lei , Dong Lei , Dou Haipeng , Yin Wangbao , Jia Suotang
Published: April 2008

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy has been used to measure the organic oxygen content in pulverized anthracite coal under atmospheric conditions. Special spectral processing including the optimal O( I) emission-line selection by comparing the spectral correlation coefficients with the N( I) line, internal normalization with the N( I) line, and temperature correction are proposed and employed to satisfy the multiline analysis method and yield the most accurate quantitative results. The calibration method for determining the organic oxygen content of coal is presented, with an accuracy of 1.15–1.37% and an average relative error of 19.39% being evaluated through an experiment performed on six anthracite coal samples. The relative measurement error distribution has also been studied.
Sequential Wavelength Tuning: Dynamics at Interfaces Investigated by Vibrational Sum-Frequency Spectroscopy
Authors: Schrödle Simon , Richmond Geraldine L.
Published: April 2008

Vibrational sum-frequency spectroscopy is a powerful tool for the study of interfaces, but its application has hitherto mainly been limited to static structure. This contribution demonstrates how the considerably improved stability of state-of-the-art lasers and parametric generators can be exploited to study the evolution of interfacial structure continuously for several hours. By sequential wavelength tuning and automated control of spatial beam overlap at the target, amplitude changes of sum-frequency resonances in widely spaced infrared regions can be probed. This offers great advantages for the study of the synchronism of molecular processes at interfaces.
Photothermal Deflection Determination of Iron(II) with Ferrozine with Sorption Preconcentration on Silufol Plates
Authors: Khrycheva A. D. , Nedosekin D. A. , Proskurnin M. A. , Kononets M. Y. , Pakhomova S. V. , Faubel W.
Published: April 2008

Photothermal deflection spectroscopy was applied to the selective detection of iron(II) chelate with ferrozine by its sorption preconcentration on Silufol plates. The linearity range was 1 × 10−11–6 × 10−8 mol cm−2 of chelate at the plate surface, which corresponded to 1 × 10−9–4 × 10−6 M of chelate in solution. The limits of detection and quantification are 8 × 10−12 and 2.5 × 10−11 mol cm−2 at the plate from 15 μL of test solution (0.5 nM and 1.5 nM in solution, respectively), and the absolute detection limit is 8 fmol in the whole spot applied to a plate. Characteristics and features of photothermal deflection detection are discussed.
Prediction of Long and Short Residue Properties of Crude Oils from Their Infrared and Near-Infrared Spectra
Authors: De Peinder Peter , Petrauskas Derek D. , Singelenberg Fred , Salvatori Fabien , Visser Tom , Soulimani Fouad , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: April 2008

Research has been carried out to determine the feasibility of chemometric modeling of infrared (IR) and near-infrared (NIR) spectra of crude oils to predict the long residue (LR) and short residue (SR) properties of these samples. A novel method is described to predict short residue properties at different flashing temperatures based on the IR spectrum of a crude oil measured at room temperature. The resulting method is the subject of European patent application number 07251853.3 filed by Shell Internationale Research Maatschappij B.V. The study has been carried out on 47 crude oils and 4 blends, representing a large variety of physical and chemical properties. From this set, 28 representative samples were selected by principle component analysis (PCA) and used for calibration. The remaining 23 samples were used as a test set to validate the obtained partial least squares (PLS) regression models. The results demonstrate that this integrated approach offers a fast and viable alternative for the currently applied elaborate ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and IP (Institute of Petroleum) methods. IR spectra, in particular, were found to be a useful input for the prediction of different LR properties. Root mean square error of prediction values of the same order of magnitude as the reproducibility values of the ASTM methods were obtained for yield long on crude (YLC), density (DLR), viscosity (VLR), and pour point (PP), while the ability to predict the sulfur contents (S) and the carbon residue (CR) was found to be useful for indicative purposes. The prediction of SR properties is also promising. Modeling of the IR spectra, and to a lesser extent, the NIR spectra as a function of the average flash temperature (AFT) was particularly successful for the prediction of the short residue properties density (DSR) and viscosity (VSR). Similar results were obtained from the models to predict SR properties as a function of the yield short on crude (YSC) values. Finally, it was concluded that the applied protocol including sample pretreatment and instrumental measurement is highly reproducible and instrument and accessory independent.
Estimation of Effective Refractive Index of Birefringent Particles Using a Combination of the Immersion Liquid Method and Light Scattering
Authors: Niskanen Ilpo , Ráty Jukka , Peiponen Kai-Erik
Published: April 2008

A method to detect the effective refractive index and concentration of birefringent pigments is suggested. The method is based on the utilization of the immersion liquid method and a multifunction spectrophotometer for the measurement of back scattered light. The method has applications in the measurement of the effective refractive index of pigments that are used, e.g., in the paper industry to improve the opacity of paper products.
The First Ten Minutes: Clinicians' Perspectives on Engaging Adolescents in Therapy
Authors: Keating Vanessa , Cosgrave Elizabeth
Published: April 2008

The objective of this article is to outline factors for consideration in the successful engagement of adolescents in therapy. Adolescents face a number of barriers that can affect their ability to successfully engage with mental health clinicians (Booth, et al., 2004). Those working with this population should have a keen awareness of these barriers and their impact. As a first step, preparation for the initial interview with an adolescent is vital. Careful thought should be given to those involved in the assessment process and the manner of their involvement, giving the adolescent as much input as possible. The importance of an honest and respectful attitude should not be underestimated.
After the Assessment: Introducing Adolescents to Cognitive–Behavioural Therapy
Authors: Cosgrave Elizabeth , Keating Vanessa
Published: April 2008

The objective of this article is to describe the practical aspects involved in adapting cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) to an adolescent population in Australia. Some effective ways to use CBT with adolescents include preparing them for CBT by providing a thorough cognitive–behavioural formulation, describing the cognitive–behavioural approach to therapy in an adolescent-friendly manner, and adapting language and treatment conditions to suit young people's needs.
Treating the Client Rather Than the Symptoms: Moving Beyond Manualised Treatments in Psychotherapy
Authors: Bitsika Vicki , Sharpley Christopher F.
Published: April 2008

There have been some challenges to the reliance upon data from randomised controlled clinical trials when identifying ‘evidence-based’ psychotherapy treatments. Similarly, data show that use of treatment manuals does not result in uniform and beneficial outcomes, that some evidence-based treatments are little better than non-specific counselling and that the search for those therapies or components that are effective has been largely fruitless. In an attempt to extend the debate about evidence-based treatments and drawing upon those aspects of cognitive and behavioural therapies that have been shown to be effective in most settings, this article describes valued outcomes analysis and therapy as a means of assisting clients to understand their own behaviour as (sometimes unwanted) adaptations to environmental demands and then to learn alternative ways of achieving the goals they pursue. A case illustration is provided.
Perspectives Regarding the Role of School Psychologists: Perceptions of Teachers, Principals, and School Psychologists in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Thielking Monica , Jimerson Shane R.
Published: April 2008

School psychologists have a unique and multifaceted role within schools and must work with a variety of stakeholders. Therefore, it is important to explore and understand the perspectives of other educational professionals regarding the roles of school psychologists. This study examined the perspectives of principals (N= 21), teachers (N= 86), and school psychologists (N= 81) regarding what they believe should be the role of school psychologists. Participants were working in Catholic, Independent, and Government primary and secondary schools across Victoria, Australia. Results revealed both similarities and differences between the three groups regarding perspectives about school psychologists' role. For instance, the three groups shared similar perspectives that school psychologists should: (a) conduct research on issues relevant to the school, (b) be up-to-date on relevant research, (c) conduct psychological assessments, (d) provide counselling to students, (e) organise group programs for students, (f) organise workshops and provide information to teachers on issues of students' welfare and (g) inform primary students' parents of their child's participation in counselling. However, the three groups also differed in their perspectives about some aspects of the school psychologists' role. It was notable that each of the differences in perceptions between the groups had implications for potential ethical dilemmas, for instance: (a) boundaries, (b) dual relationship, (c) confidentiality/who is the client? and (d) informed consent. Implications for practice and scholarship in the field of school psychology are discussed.
‘Give Me a Name for What's Wrong With Him’: A Case Study of a Rare Chromosome Disorder
Authors: Gilmore Linda , Campbell Marilyn
Published: April 2008

The case is presented of a young boy with a rare chromosome disorder involving an interstitial deletion on chromosome 16 (16q11.2q13). Background information on chromosome disorders is presented along with a review of previous findings about the developmental consequences of chromosome 16q deletions. The case description illustrates the developmental and educational difficulties that may be associated with rare chromosome disorders and raises some important issues for guidance and counselling professionals.
Effects of RSA Feedback on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptomatology
Authors: Fourie Phillip
Published: April 2008

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the anxiety disorders with particularly debilitating effects due to flashbacks and hypervigilance in daily life. Treatments commonly focus upon either pharmacological or psychotherapeutic modalities, but there is often a need to merge both of these approaches to deal effectively with the somatic, as well as the psychological, symptoms of PTSD in particular clients. This case study reports the application of a combined approach, using both client-centred counselling plus biofeedback of respiratory sinus arrhythmia to train the client to control his exaggerated sympathetic nervous system responses. Results indicated that both physiological and psychological measures of PTSD in this client significantly reduced during the seven treatment sessions.
A Community Approach to Suicide Prevention: A Look at American Campuses
Authors: McCarthy John , Salotti Mary Ann
Published: April 2008

University counselling centre professionals in the United States have reported an increased complexity of presenting problems, including concerns related to depression. Whether arising from depression or another disorder, suicide does occur on American campuses and is the second leading cause of death in students of traditional college age. Drawing from mainstream and professional sources, this article provides a description of various institutional changes, ranging from policy changes to information dissemination, that are designed to prevent suicide on college campuses in the United States.
Weekend Formats in Counsellor Education: A Case Example in the United States
Authors: McCarthy John , Silliker S. Alan
Published: April 2008

Various course and program formats have been developed to better meet the needs of graduate students. One of them is the development of weekend-only courses and programs. This article examines one weekend counsellor education format in the United States, the St. Bonaventure University program offered in the Buffalo (New York) area, in detail. This program is offered approximately 60 miles from its main campus, and 10 cohorts have graduated since its inception in 1995. Advantages of the program include closer learner–instructor relationships as well as the community spirit that is created through lengthier class times. Covering and learning course material in shorter time spans are important challenges. Suggestions for implementation of a weekend program are included.
Developmental Plasticity in the Human Auditory Brainstem
Authors: Johnson Krista L. , Nicol Trent , Zecker Steven G. , Kraus Nina
Published: April 2008

Development of the human auditory brainstem is thought to be primarily complete by the age of ∼2 years, such that subsequent sensory plasticity is confined primarily to the cortex. However, recent findings have revealed experience-dependent developmental plasticity in the mammalian auditory brainstem in an animal model. It is not known whether the human system demonstrates similar changes and whether experience with sounds composed of acoustic elements relevant to speech may alter brainstem response characteristics. We recorded brainstem responses evoked by both click and speech syllables in children between the ages of 3 and 12 years. Here, we report a neural response discrepancy in brainstem encoding of these two sounds, observed in 3- to 4-year-old children but not in school-age children. Whereas all children exhibited identical neural activity to a click, 3- to 4-year-old children displayed delayed and less synchronous onset and sustained neural response activity when elicited by speech compared with 5- to 12-year-olds. These results suggest that the human auditory system exhibits developmental plasticity, in both frequency and time domains, for sounds that are composed of acoustic elements relevant to speech. The findings are interpreted within the contexts of stimulus-related differences and experience-dependent plasticity.
Impaired Adult Neurogenesis Associated with Short-Term Memory Defects in NF-κB p50-Deficient Mice
Authors: Denis-Donini Suzanne , Dellarole Anna , Crociara Paola , Francese Maria Teresa , Bortolotto Valeria , Quadrato Giorgia , Canonico Pier Luigi , Orsetti Marco , Ghi Piera , Memo Maurizio , Bonini Sara Anna , Ferrari-Toninelli Giulia , Grilli Mariagrazia
Published: April 2008

Neurogenesis proceeds throughout adulthood in the brain of most mammalian species, but the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of stem/progenitor cell proliferation, survival, maturation, and differentiation have not been completely unraveled. We have studied hippocampal neurogenesis in NF-κB p50-deficient mice. Here we demonstrate that in absence of p50, the net rate of neural precursor proliferation does not change, but some of the steps leading to the final neuron differentiation status are hampered, resulting in ∼50% reduction in the number of newly born neurons in the adult mutant hippocampus. Additionally, in p50−/−mice, we observed a selective defect in short-term spatial memory performance without impairment of hippocampal-dependent spatial long-term memory and learning. Our results highlight the role of NF-κB p50 in hippocampal neurogenesis and in short-term spatial memory.
Right-Hemisphere Auditory Cortex Is Dominant for Coding Syllable Patterns in Speech
Authors: Abrams Daniel A. , Nicol Trent , Zecker Steven , Kraus Nina
Published: April 2008

Cortical analysis of speech has long been considered the domain of left-hemisphere auditory areas. A recent hypothesis poses that cortical processing of acoustic signals, including speech, is mediated bilaterally based on the component rates inherent to the speech signal. In support of this hypothesis, previous studies have shown that slow temporal features (3–5 Hz) in nonspeech acoustic signals lateralize to right-hemisphere auditory areas, whereas rapid temporal features (20–50 Hz) lateralize to the left hemisphere. These results were obtained using nonspeech stimuli, and it is not known whether right-hemisphere auditory cortex is dominant for coding the slow temporal features in speech known as the speech envelope. Here we show strong right-hemisphere dominance for coding the speech envelope, which represents syllable patterns and is critical for normal speech perception. Right-hemisphere auditory cortex was 100% more accurate in following contours of the speech envelope and had a 33% larger response magnitude while following the envelope compared with the left hemisphere. Asymmetries were evident regardless of the ear of stimulation despite dominance of contralateral connections in ascending auditory pathways. Results provide evidence that the right hemisphere plays a specific and important role in speech processing and support the hypothesis that acoustic processing of speech involves the decomposition of the signal into constituent temporal features by rate-specialized neurons in right- and left-hemisphere auditory cortex.
Differential Mechanisms of CRF1 and CRF2 Receptor Functions in the Amygdala in Pain-Related Synaptic Facilitation and Behavior
Authors: Fu Yu , Neugebauer Volker
Published: April 2008

A major site of extrahypothalamic expression of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and its G-protein-coupled CRF1 and CRF2 receptors is the amygdala, a key player in emotions and affective disorders. Pain-related plasticity in the laterocapsular division of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeLC) generates emotional-affective responses and anxiety-like behavior. CRF1 receptor antagonists have anxiolytic effects. Although both CRF1 and CRF2 receptors couple positively to adenylyl cyclase, they can have opposite effects, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. This study addressed CRF1 and CRF2 receptor functions and mechanisms in the amygdala in a model of arthritic pain. Using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings of CeLC neurons, we found that a selective CRF1 receptor antagonist (NBI27914 [5-chloro-4-(N-(cyclopropyl)methyl-N-propylamino)-2-methyl-6-(2,4,6-trichlorophenyl)]) amino-pyridine inhibited synaptic facilitation in brain slices from arthritic rats through a postsynaptic mechanism. Inhibition of the NMDA receptor-mediated synaptic component was occluded by a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, consistent with our previous demonstration of PKA-dependent increased NMDA receptor function in arthritis pain-related plasticity. NBI27914 also decreased neuronal excitability through inhibition of highly tetraethylammonium (TEA)-sensitive ion channels that contribute to action potential repolarization and firing rate. In contrast, a CRF2 receptor antagonist (astressin-2B [cyclo(31–34) [d-Phe11,His12,CαMeLeu13,39, Nle17, Glu31, Lys34] Ac-Sauvagine(8–40)]) facilitated synaptic transmission through presynaptic inhibition of GABAergic transmission (disinhibition). NBI27914 inhibited arthritis pain-related behaviors (audible and ultrasonic vocalizations and hindlimb withdrawal reflexes). Astressin-2B had no significant behavioral effect. The data suggest that endogenous CRF1 receptor activation in the amygdala contributes to pain-related synaptic facilitation, increased excitability, and pain behavior through a postsynaptic mechanism involving activation of PKA and highly TEA-sensitive K+-currents. Presynaptic CRF2 receptor-mediated inhibition does not reach behavioral significance.