bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sport, Arab Nationalism and the Pan-Arab Games
Authors: Henry Ian P. , Amara Mahfoud , Al-Tauqi Mansour
Published: September 2003

The aim of this article is to outline the manner in which the Pan-Arab Games reflect the tensions within the pan-Arab project of political and cultural unity. Within the movement there has been a traditional cleavage between those advocating the political unification between Arab states and those promoting inter-Arab-nation-state cooperation. The Pan-Arab Games were established by the League of Arab Nations in 1953 as means of expressing cultural unity between Arab peoples across nation-state boundaries. As an institution it is founded therefore on a philosophy of ethno-cultural group identity (based on race and language), rather than on territorial divisions (such as continental games) or philosophies of multi-culturalism and universalism (as is the case for the Olympic Games). The history of the Pan-Arab games has been fraught with difficulties, largely (though not exclusively) founded in the conflict between Israel and the Arab states, as well as the more recent wars in the Gulf and in Afghanistan. The article provides an historical analysis, identifying the implications of these conflicts and the associated divisions in the pan-Arab movement reflected in the recent history of the Games, in particular those held in the Lebanon in 1997 and in Jordan in 1999. It argues that the Games provide a useful lens through which to identify the contradictions of Arab nationalism and pan-Arabism.
The Effect of Social Support and Acculturation on Postpartum Depression in Mexican American Women
Authors: Martinez-Schallmoser Lucy , Telleen Sharon , Macmullen Nancy J.
Published: September 2003

Postpartum depression was studied in 66 multiparous Mexican American women using a prospective longitudinal design. Interviews were conducted at 34 to 36 weeks prenatally and 4 to 6 weeks postpartum. Women expressing prenatal depression were more likely to continue to experience depression postpartum. Other predictors included a high need for postpartum support, specific support network characteristics, acculturation, and poor quality relationships within the family. It is important for the health care provider to assess the presence of depressive symptoms and available social support during the prenatal period and work with Mexican American mothers to increase support and secure help in dealing with daily life stressors.
Linguistic Services in Ambulatory Clinics
Authors: Vandervort Elisa Brettler , Melkus Gail D'Eramo
Published: September 2003

A review of the literature reveals few studies that focus on the challenge of language barriers in primary care settings. Recognizing the need for a national consensus on cultural and linguistic standards for health care in the United States, the Office of Minority Health recently released a set of standards for culturally and linguistically appropriate services (CLAS). These standards were utilized to examine the linguistic services available at eight ambulatory care centers in a small New England state in an effort to determine compliance with recommended national standards. Although myriad studies have focused on provision of linguistically appropriate care in emergency rooms (ERs), few studies have specifically examined ambulatory care settings. Numerous strategies have been adopted by individual clinics in an attempt to deal effectively with linguistic barriers. Yet without clear national regulations and dedicated funding for interpreter services, a large spectrum of services exists. Survey data were obtained from on-site visits at select community health clinics to ascertain availability, need, and utilization of linguistic services for patients with limited English proficiency. The majority of patients served by the clinics surveyed were predominantly Spanish-speaking. Results reveal that although most of the clinics provided informal mechanisms of interpreter services, few directly addressed linguistic services as a component of culturally competent care.
Walking as Spiritual Practice: The Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela
Authors: SLAVIN SEAN
Published: September 2003

This article examines the experiences of pilgrims walking to the shrine of St James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. It argues that walking is a social practice operating at the nexus between body and self. Pilgrims do not generally regard walking as a spiritual practice at the journey's outset. They do, however, develop a deep awareness of the multiple effects of walking as they progress along the route. Pilgrims report a variety of techniques in relation to their walking including using rhythm, `being' in the moment and narrating. Various social borders also establish a space for self-reflection that is both individualistic as well as marked by wider social meanings. Walking is thus simultaneously a bodily, social and spiritual practice.
Who's Afraid of Violent Language?
Authors: Cowan Jane K.
Published: September 2003

The peace treaties following the Great War dictated that certain nation-states accept, as the price of international recognition, agreements to protect the rights of their minority populations. Responsibility to `guarantee' and `supervise' the minority treaties fell to a novel and untried international institution, the League of Nations. It established the `minority petition procedure', an unprecedented innovation within international relations that initiated transnational claims-making. Focusing on the supervision of agreements pertaining to the Macedonian region, I examine how the Minorities Section of the League of Nations Secretariat handled `minority petitions' alleging state infractions of minority treaties. I consider, in particular, a preoccupation among both bureaucrats and states with `violent language' in petitions. I argue that this preoccupation signalled anxieties about honour, sovereignty and legitimacy, about the ambiguous position of `minority states' and about the potentially explosive effects of popular energies in the post-war international order.
Why Wait for Dementia?
Authors: Watchman Karen
Published: September 2003

Adults with Down's syndrome living in supported accommodation, who develop dementia, may also experience other preventable difficulties caused by the environment in which they live. This can result in their enforced move to different accommodation. Yet it is known that it is beneficial for people with learning disabilities and dementia to remain in familiar surroundings for as long as possible. The article puts forward a new set of guidelines suggesting the modification of the living environment of adults with Down's syndrome before they develop dementia. The guidelines are discussed along with possible barriers to their implementation.
Responding to Masturbation in Supporting Sexuality and Challenging Behaviour in Services for People with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Cambridge Paul , Carnaby Steven , McCarthy Michelle
Published: September 2003

Masturbation is frequently referenced as a key issue for supporting the sexuality of people with learning disabilities, yet the subject has received little attention in the professional and academic literature. This article provides an overview of masturbation in relation to service responses and user support in sexuality work in learning disability more widely, drawing in evidence and experience from sex education, clinical work and staff training. Issues such as gender, sexuality, culture and consent are addressed and some of the commonly held myths and assumptions about sexuality and masturbation are challenged. The discussion and related suggestions are designed to be of value to service managers and practitioners, particularly those involved in sexuality work and one-to-one support.
The Prevalence of Autistic Spectrum Disorders in People Using a Community Learning Disabilities Service
Authors: Hare Dougal Julian , Chapman Melanie , Fraser Janelle , Gore Sarah , Burton Mark
Published: September 2003

The prevalence of autistic spectrum disorders in people using a large urban learning disabilities service was examined using a questionnaire-based method. Both statutory and independent service providers were surveyed and a total of 174 people with either a confirmed or a suspected autistic spectrum disorder were identified. Current and historical factors are discussed which suggest that the resulting estimation that 10 percent of service users have an autistic spectrum disorder represents the lowest estimate of prevalence in this population. The implications for service provision and development are discussed.
Satisfactions and Challenges in Spiritual Faith and Practice for Persons with Dementia
Authors: Snyder Lisa
Published: September 2003

In the past decade, there has been greater attention given to the role of religion and spirituality in coping with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. This research has focused largely on caregivers with much less attention given to those afflicted with the disease. This qualitative study examines the role of religion and spirituality in the lives of persons with dementia. Quotes from 27 individuals with Alzheimer's and one person with frontal temporal dementia reveal the following themes: the role of religion or spirituality in finding meaning in dementia; the role of religion or spirituality in coping with the disease; the influence of dementia on religious or spiritual practices; and the influence of dementia on faith. Findings illuminate the importance of including the perspective of the person with dementia in assessments and interventions aimed at understanding and addressing the spiritual needs of families.
Spirituality in Multicultural Caregivers of Persons with Dementia
Authors: Farran Carol J. , Paun Olimpia , Elliott Mary Horton
Published: September 2003

This qualitative study examined spirituality in a multicultural group of caregivers of persons with dementia. The work was based upon earlier focus groups that centered on general outreach to African-American caregivers. While initial questions focused on caregiving experiences, service needs, and barriers to service use, caregivers spontaneously shared their experiences concerning spirituality and caregiving. In an effort to respond to these comments and embrace a more expanded outreach approach, successive focus groups specifically addressed questions about spirituality and caregiving. Using semi-structured questionnaires, three focus groups with existing community-based groups were conducted ( N = 43). Four major categories emerged from the data: teachers of the faith; the role of faith in one's life; benefits of spirituality; and the caregiver, the care-receiver and the caregiving experience. These major categories were integrated into a spiritual model for the caregiver and the caregiving experience. Findings suggest that community-based outreach approaches should embrace an appreciation for caregivers' faith development, expressions, and experiences of spirituality; that clinical interventions should be more proactive in responding to spiritual/religious issues; and that future research efforts should refine methods and approaches for a more integrated scientific basis that further examines relationships between spirituality and mental and physical health outcomes.
A multivalent bcr-abl fusion peptide vaccination trial in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Cathcart Kathleen , Pinilla-Ibarz Javier , Korontsvit Tatyana , Schwartz Joseph , Zakhaleva Victoriya , Papadopoulos Esperanza B. , Scheinberg David A.
Published: September 2003

A tumor-specific, bcr-abl-derived fusion peptide vaccine can be safely administered to patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and can elicit a bcr-abl peptide-specific T-cell immune response. In the present phase 2 trial, 14 patients with CML in chronic phase were vaccinated with 6 fusion peptides mixed with Quillaja saponaria (QS-21). No significant toxic effects were observed. In 14 of 14 patients, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) and/or CD4 proliferative responses developed after beginning vaccinations, and 11 of 14 patients showed interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) release by CD4 enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) at one or more time points. These responses were CD4+CD45RO+. A peptide-specific CD8+ interferon-gamma ELISPOT was found in 4 patients. Four patients in hematologic remission had a decrease in Philadelphia chromosome (Ph) percentage (3 concurrently receiving interferon-alpha and 1 on imatinib mesylate), and 3 patients in molecular relapse after allogenic transplantation became transiently polymerase chain reaction (PCR) negative after vaccination; 2 of these patients received concurrent donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI). All 5 patients on IFN-alpha ultimately reached a complete cytogenetic remission. In conclusion, a tumor-specific bcr-abl breakpoint peptide-derived vaccine can be safely administered and can reliably elicit measurable peptide-specific CD4 immune responses, including in patients after bone marrow transplantation, on interferon, or on imatinib mesylate. A relationship between the clinical responses and vaccination cannot be determined from this trial. (Blood. 2004;103:1037-1042)
Constitutive mutants of the GM-CSF receptor reveal multiple pathways leading to myeloid cell survival, proliferation, and granulocyte-macrophage differentiation
Authors: Brown Anna L. , Peters Michelle , D'Andrea Richard J. , Gonda Thomas J.
Published: September 2003

Activation of the granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) family of receptors promotes the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of cells of the myeloid compartment. Several signaling pathways are activated downstream of the receptor, however it is not clear how these induce specific biologic outcomes. We have previously identified 2 classes of constitutively active mutants of the shared signaling subunit, human (h) βc, of the human GM-CSF/interleukin-3 (IL-3)/IL-5 receptors that exhibit different modes of signaling. In a factor-dependent bipotential myeloid cell line, FDB1, an activated mutant containing a substitution in the transmembrane domain (V449E) induces factor-independent proliferation and survival, while mutants in the extracellular domain induce factor-independent granulocyte-macrophage differentiation. Here we have used further mutational analysis to demonstrate that there are nonredundant functions for several regions of the cytoplasmic domain with regard to mediating proliferation, viability, and differentiation, which have not been revealed by previous studies with the wild-type GM-CSF receptor. This unique lack of redundancy has revealed an association of a conserved membrane-proximal region with viability signaling and a critical but distinct role for tyrosine 577 in the activities of each class of mutant.
Molecular remission and reversal of myelofibrosis in response to imatinib mesylate treatment in patients with the myeloproliferative variant of hypereosinophilic syndrome
Authors: Klion Amy D. , Robyn Jamie , Akin Cem , Noel Pierre , Brown Margaret , Law Melissa , Metcalfe Dean D. , Dunbar Cynthia , Nutman Thomas B.
Published: September 2003

We recently described a subset of patients with a myeloproliferative variant of hypereosinophilic syndrome (MHES) characterized by elevated serum tryptase levels, increased atypical mast cells in the bone marrow, tissue fibrosis, and the presence of the fusion tyrosine kinase, FIP1L1-PDGFRα, which is a therapeutic target of imatinib mesylate. Seven patients with MHES were treated with imatinib mesylate (300-400 mg daily). Clinical improvement and resolution of eosinophilia was observed in all patients, although cardiac dysfunction, when present, was not altered by therapy. Reversal of bone marrow pathology, including increased cellularity, the presence of spindle-shaped mast cells, and myelofibrosis, was evident in all patients at 4 to 8 weeks following initiation of therapy. This was accompanied by a decrease in activated eosinophils and mast cells in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, respectively. Serum tryptase levels declined rapidly to normal levels in all patients and remained in the normal range throughout therapy. Molecular remission, with disappearance of detectable FIP1L1/PDGFRA (F/P) transcripts, was achieved in 5 of 6 patients tested. The lack of reversal of cardiac abnormalities and persistence of the F/P mutation in some patients suggests that early intervention with higher doses of imatinib mesylate may be desirable in the treatment of patients with MHES.
Organization and translation of mRNA in sympathetic axons
Authors: Lee Sun-Kyung , Hollenbeck Peter J.
Published: September 2003

Many axons carry out the synthesis of macromolecules independent of their cell bodies but the nature, organization and magnitude of axonal protein synthesis remain unclear. We have examined these features in axons of chick sympathetic neurons in cell culture. In situ hybridization showed that poly(A) mRNA is abundant and non-uniformly distributed in nearly all axons. The specific transcripts for β-actin and actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF) were also present and non-uniformly distributed in axons, with an approximately hundredfold higher concentration in growth cones, branch points and axonal varicosities than in the axon shaft. Immunoprecipitation using specific antibodies indicates that β-actin, ADF and neurofilament protein (NF) are translated in axons independently of cell bodies. Quantification of the distribution of β-actin and ADF mRNAs showed that their ability to enter the axon was likely to be a property of the neuron as a whole rather than of individual axons. To compare the distribution of axonally translated protein to that of mRNA, we performed 35S metabolic labeling with axons separated from their cell bodies. Axonally synthesized proteins were distributed throughout the axons and their synthesis was inhibited by cycloheximide but not by chloramphenicol. Proteins translated mainly or exclusively in axons or cell bodies were both detected by metabolic labeling. Axons separated from their cell bodies synthesized up to 5% as much protein in a 3-hour period as did intact neurons. Because axons in our culture conditions contain ∼50% of the non-nuclear volume of the neurons, we estimate that axoplasm of sympathetic neurons has a protein synthetic capacity per unit volume equal to 10% that of cell body cytoplasm.
Transgenesis and reverse genetics of mosquito innate immunity
Authors: Shin Sang Woon , Kokoza Vladimir A. , Raikhel Alexander S.
Published: September 2003

In recent years, mosquito molecular biology has been a scene of astounding achievements, namely the development of genetic transformation,characterization of inducible tissue-specific promoters, and acquirement of mosquito genome sequences. However, the lack of a complete genetic tool box for mosquitoes remains a serious obstacle in our ability to study essential mosquito-specific mechanisms. Unlike Drosophila, very few null mutations for mosquito genes exist. The development of reverse-genetic analyses based on RNAi and transgenic techniques will help to compensate for these deficiencies and aid in identification of critical genes in important regulatory pathways. The study of mosquito innate immunity is one example and described here. In this study, we combine mosquito transgenesis with reverse genetics. The advantage of transgenesis is the ability to establish genetically stable, dominant-negative and overexpression phenotypes. Using the blood-meal-activated vitellogenin gene (Vg) promoter, we have generated transgenic mosquitoes with blood-meal-activated, overexpressed antimicrobial peptides, Defensin A and Cecropin A. Moreover, we have recently generated a transgenic dominant-negative Relish mosquito strain, which after taking a blood meal, becomes immune-deficient to infection by Gram-negative bacteria. The latter accomplishment has opened the door to a reverse-genetic approach in mosquitoes based on transgenesis.
The role of MRI and ultrasound imaging in Morton’s neuroma and the effect of size of lesion on symptoms
Authors: Sharp R. J. , Wade C. M. , Hennessy M. S. , Saxby T. S.
Published: September 2003

We investigated 29 cases, diagnosed clinically as having Morton’s neuroma, who had undergone MRI and ultrasound before a neurectomy. The accuracy with which pre-operative clinical assessment, ultrasound and MRI had correctly diagnosed the presence of a neuroma were compared with one another based on the histology and the clinical outcome.

Clinical assessment was the most sensitive and specific modality. The accuracy of the ultrasound and MRI was similar and dependent on size. Ultrasound was especially inaccurate for small lesions.

There was no correlation between the size of the lesion and either the pre-operative pain score or the change in pain score following surgery.

Reliance on single modality imaging would have led to inaccurate diagnosis in 18 cases and would have only benefited one patient. Even imaging with both modalities failed to meet the predictive values attained by clinical assessment.

There is no requirement for ultrasound or MRI in patients who are thought to have a Morton’s neuroma. Small lesions, < 6 mm in size, are equally able to cause symptoms as larger lesions. Neurectomy provides an excellent clinical outcome in most cases.
Factors which affect the progression of osteoarthritis after rotational acetabular osteotomy
Authors: Koga H. , Matsubara M. , Suzuki K. , Morita S. , Muneta T.
Published: September 2003

We have investigated the factors which affect the progression of osteoarthritis after rotational acetabular osteotomy (RAO).

Between 1984 and 1998, we treated 60 dysplastic hips by RAO. The mean age at surgery was 31.6 years (13 to 51) and the mean period of follow-up was 4.6 years (2 to 9.5). The thickness of the articular cartilage on the weight-bearing area, pre- and postoperative acetabular cover, and the sphericity of the femoral head were used for radiological assessment.

The osteoarthritis did not progress in 39 hips. Significant factors which affected the radiological grade included sphericity of the femoral head and the postoperative acetabular cover. The surgical approach and preoperative acetabular cover did not affect the progression of osteoarthritis. Patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical approach used, either conventional (23 hips) or modified (37 hips). Significant factors included the postoperative acetabular cover in the modified approach, and the sphericity of the femoral head in the conventional approach.

It is critical that the postoperative cover is sufficient, especially when RAO is carried out using our modified technique.
Percutaneous arthrodesis of small joints in the hand
Authors: Mader K. , Gausepohl T. , Wolfgarten B. , Pennig D.
Published: September 2003

Our aim in this prospective study was to evaluate a minimally invasive technique for percutaneous arthrodesis of the small joints in the hand. Thirteen arthrodeses were undertaken in 11 patients, eight women and three men. After the percutaneous removal of articular cartilage, the bony surfaces were aligned in a predetermined position and stabilised using a percutaneous screw system. The mean follow-up was 38.6 months (36 to 56). Bony union was achieved in 12 cases (ten patients) between nine and 12 weeks after surgery. In one patient a second operation was required to obtain union and another developed a painless nonunion after premature removal of the implants.
Curing and thermal behavior of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A in the presence of a mixture of amines
Authors: Khurana Parveen , Narula A. K. , Choudhary Veena
Published: September 2003

The curing behavior of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry with mixtures of silicon‐containing amide–amines and diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS). Silicon‐containing amide–amines were prepared by the reaction of 2.5 mol of 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl ether (E), 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl methane (M), 3,3′‐diaminodiphenyl sulfone (mS), 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl sulfone (pS), bis(3‐aminophenyl) methyl phosphine oxide (B), or tris(3‐aminophenyl) phosphine oxide (T) with 1 mol of bis(4‐chlorobenzoyl) dimethyl silane. Mixtures of the amide–amines and DDS at ratios of 0:1, 0.25:0.75, 0.5:0.5, 0.75:0.25, and 1:0 were used to investigate the curing behavior of DGEBA. A single exotherm was observed on curing with a mixture of amide–amine and DDS. This clearly shows that the mixture participated in the cocuring reaction. The peak exotherm temperature depended on the structure and the molar ratio of amide–amines. With all of the amide–amines and DDS, a significant decrease in the kick‐off temperature of the curing exotherm was observed on the incorporation of a 0.25 molar fraction of amide–amines. Thus, with the mixture, the curing temperatures were reduced and were lowest for ether‐containing amide‐amines and highest for methylene‐containing amide–amines. The char yield was almost similar in the samples cured with amide–amines (E, pS, or mS) or DDS. The char yield was higher than for either of the constituents when a mixture was used. A synergistic behavior was observed when a mixture of E, M, mS, or pS and DDS was used, whereas mixture of B or T and DDS showed antigonism in the char yield. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 90: 1739–1747, 2003
Electropolymerization of pyrrole and characterization of the obtained polymer films
Authors: Sayyah S. M. , Abd El‐Rehim S. S. , El‐Deeb M. M.
Published: September 2003

Electrochemical oxidative polymerization of pyrrole on platinum electrode in acid medium was carried out. Different reaction parameters were investigated such as current density, acid concentration, monomer concentration, and temperature with duration of time. The orders of the electropolymerization reaction were found to be 1.3, 1.26, and 1.2 with respect to current density, acid concentration, and monomer concentration, respectively. The apparent activation energy was found to be 38.3 kJ mol−1. The obtained polymer films were characterized by 1H‐NMR, elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and cyclic voltammetry. The mechanism of the electrochemical polymerization reaction was also discussed. The surface morphology of the obtained polymer film was characterized by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 90: 1783–1792, 2003
Effect of the synthesis route on the structure and properties of polyurethane/nitrokonjac glucomannan semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks
Authors: Gao Shanjun , Zhang Lina , Huang Qilin
Published: September 2003

With a synthesis route differing from previous methods, novel semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks (semi‐IPNs), coded UNK‐II, were synthesized by the initial mixing of nitrokonjac glucomannan (NKGM) with castor oil in butanone and the subsequent addition of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) to begin the polymerization reaction in the presence of 1,4‐butanediol (BD) as a chain extender at 60°C. The results from dynamic mechanical analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and ultraviolet spectroscopy indicated that a certain degree of microphase separation occurred between soft and hard segments of polyurethane (PU) in the UNK‐II sheets. The α‐transition temperature, glass‐transition temperature, heating capacity, and tensile strength increased with an increase in the NKGM content, and this suggested an interaction between PU and NKGM in the UNK‐II sheets. In a previous method, semi‐IPN materials (PUNK) were synthesized by the polymerization reaction between castor oil and TDI, and then this PU prepolymer was mixed with NKGM and cured in the presence of BD as a chain extender. The PUNK sheets had relatively good miscibility and mechanical properties. However, for UNK‐II sheets prepared by the method reported in this work, NKGM mainly played a role in reinforcement. When the NKGM content was less than 10%, the UNK‐II sheets exhibited good miscibility, tensile strength (26–28 MPa), and breaking elongation (130–140%), similar to those of PUNK materials. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 90: 1948–1954, 2003
Objective assessment of technical skills of surgical trainees in Hong Kong
Authors: Bann S , Kwok K-F , Lo C-Y , Darzi A , Wong J
Published: September 2003

Background

The need for assessment of technical skills is well recognized and objective methods of assessment are currently under investigation in the UK. The applicability of these assessment tools to trainees with a different training background in another country was examined.

Methods

Six bench-top models for basic surgical trainees (BSTs) and eight for higher surgical trainees (HSTs) (five in common) were assessed for construct validity in 70 subjects. Objective assessment methods included motion analysis using the Imperial College Surgical Assessment Device, Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills and Minimally Invasive Surgical Trainer in Virtual Reality.

Results

All models shared between BSTs and HSTs exhibited construct validity (range P = 0·050 to P < 0·001). Of the three modules for HSTs alone, only one gave significant results (small bowel anastomosis; P = 0·005). Reasons for this were sought.

Conclusion

The methods of objective technical skills assessment of trainees in the UK are applicable to those in Hong Kong. Their use should be promoted and the tracking of skills development encouraged.
Relationship between gene polymorphisms of mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) and two molecular forms of MBL
Authors: Terai Itaru , Kobayashi Kunihiko , Matsushita Masanao , Miyakawa Hiroshi , Mafune Naoki , Kikuta Hideaki
Published: September 2003

Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL) activates complement through MBL‐associated serine proteases (MASP). A deficiency in MBL due to mutations at exon 1 of the human MBL gene is reported to cause vulnerability to infection. We examined sera of known MBL genotype by gel filtration and assessed their elution patterns using an ELISA for MBL and identified two MBL forms, a high‐molecular‐mass form and a lower‐molecular‐mass form. By the identification of either or both forms in individual sera, three types of patterns emerged: type 1 consisted of a high‐molecular form; type 2, of a low‐molecular form; and type 3, of both forms. Types 1, 2 and 3 corresponded, respectively, to a wild type (A/A), a homozygous mutation at codon 54 (B/B) and their heterozygote (A/B). One exception was a heterozygous LXPA/LYPB phenotype that exhibited the type‐2 pattern. Binding to mannan and MASP‐1/3 occurred exclusively with the high‐molecular form. An apparent MBL deficiency does not in fact representa deficiency in MBL molecules but rather the presence of circulating oligomeric mutant MBL with impaired function.
Synthesis of Scopin Acetate and 6,7‐Didehydrohyoscyamin. Intramolecular Phenylsulfenylation of a Nonactivated Methylene Group of Ethyl N‐Demethyl‐3‐O‐(phenylthio)tropine‐N‐carboxylate
Authors: Petrović Goran B. , Saičić Radomir N. , Čeković Živorad M.
Published: September 2003

The synthesis of scopin acetate (6b) and 6,7‐didehydrohyoscyamine (17) was achieved by using tropine (5) as the starting compound. Formal (phenylthio)‐radical transfer to the nonactivated 6‐position of ethyl N‐demethyl‐3‐O‐(phenylthio)tropine‐N‐carboxylate (9) by irradiation in the presence of hexabutyldistannane is a key step of this synthetic approach, involving ethyl 6,7‐didehydro‐N‐demethyltropine‐N‐carboxylate (15) as a synthetic intermediate (Schemes 3 and 5). The reaction of 9 with tributylstannane in the presence of ethyl acrylate, as a radicophilic olefin, involves Michael‐type alkylation at C(6) of the tropine skeleton affording ethyl N‐demethyl‐N‐(ethoxycarbonyl)tropine‐6‐propanoate (18) (Scheme 6).
The Counterion Effect on the Assembly of Coordination Networks of Cationic (η3‐Allyl)palladium Complexes Containing 3,5‐Dimethyl‐4‐nitro‐1H‐pyrazole
Authors: Cano Mercedes , Heras José V. , Gallego M. Luz , Perles Josefina , Ruiz‐Valero Caridad , Pinilla Elena , Torres M. Rosario
Published: September 2003

Two new (η3‐allyl)palladium complexes containing the ligand 3,5‐dimethyl‐4‐nitro‐1H‐pyrazole (Hdmnpz) were synthesized and characterized as [Pd(η3‐C3H5)(Hdmnpz)2]BF4 (1) and [Pd(η3‐C3H5)(Hdmnpz)2]NO3 (2). The structures of these compounds were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction to evaluate the intermolecular assembly. Each complex exhibits similar coordination behavior consistent with cationic entities comprised of two pyrazole ligands coordinated with the [Pd(η3‐C3H5)]+ fragment in an almost square‐planar coordination geometry. In 1, the cationic entities are propagated through strong intermolecular H‐bonds formed between the pyrazole NH groups and BF$\rm{_{4}^{-}}$ ions in one‐dimensional polymer chains along the a axis. These chains are extended into two‐dimensional sheet networks via bifurcated H‐bonds. New intermolecular interactions established between NO2 and Me substituents at the pyrazole ligand of neighboring sheets give rise to a three‐dimensional network. By contrast, compound 2 presents molecular cyclic dimers formed through NH⋅⋅⋅O H‐bonds between two NO$\rm{_{3}^{-}}$ counterions and the pyrazole NH groups of two cationic entities. The dimers are also connected to each other through CH⋅⋅⋅O H‐bonds between the remaining O‐atom of each NO$\rm{_{3}^{-}}$ ion and the allyl CH2 H‐atom. Those interactions expand in a layer which lies parallel to the face (101).
An Unexpected Formation of a 14‐Membered Cyclodepsipeptide
Authors: Iliev Boyan , Linden Anthony , Heimgartner Heinz
Published: September 2003

The treatment of diluted solutions of the hydroxy diamides 6a and 6b in toluene with HCl gas at 100° gave the dimeric, 14‐membered cyclodepsipeptide 10 in up to 72% yield (Scheme 3). The same product was formed from the linear dimer of 6b, the depsipeptide 11, under the same conditions (cf. Scheme 4). All attempts to prepare the cyclic seven‐membered monomer 9, starting with different precursors and using different lactonization methods failed, and 10 was the only product which was isolated (cf. Scheme 6). For example, the reaction of the ester 20 with NaH in toluene at 80° led exclusively to the cyclodimer 10. On the other hand, the base‐catalyzed cyclization of the hydroxy diester 22, which is the ‘O‐analogue' of 20, yielded neither the seven‐membered dilactone, nor the 14‐membered tetralactone, but only the known trimer 23 and tetramer 24 of 2,2‐dimethylpropano‐3‐lactone (cf. Scheme 7).
Synthesis and Reactivity of Photochromic 2H‐Chromenes Based on 3‐Carboxylated Coumarins
Authors: Cerqueira Nuno M. F. S. A. , Rodrigues Lígia M. , Oliveira‐Campos Ana M. F. , Melo de Carvalho Luís H. , Coelho Paulo J. , Dubest Roger , Aubard Jean , Samat André , Guglielmetti Robert
Published: September 2003

New photochromic 2H‐chromenes (=2H‐1‐benzopyrans) including a 3‐carboxylated coumarin nucleus were synthesized from hydroxycoumarins, and, in one case, the corresponding trimethoxysilylcarboxamide was prepared. The photochromic behavior was studied under flash‐photolysis conditions. The introduction of electron‐withdrawing substituents in this position of the coumarin nucleus led to a global and significant bathochromic shift in the spectra of the open forms and to an interesting intensification in the colorability.
Gene expression profiling following chronic NMDA receptor blockade‐induced learning deficits in rats
Authors: O'Donnell James , Stemmelin Jeanne , Nitta Atsumi , Brouillette Jonathan , Quirion Rémi
Published: September 2003

Acute treatments with MK‐801, a noncompetitive antagonist of the NMDA glutamate receptor, induce spatial memory deficits in rodents. In the present study, we developed a low‐dose chronic MK‐801 treatment regimen that induced persistent learning deficits (determined by the Morris water maze task) after administration of the drug (0.2 mg/kg) every 12 h for 14 days. To determine the impact of such a treatment, changes in mRNA expression were investigated in the hippocampi and striata of treated animals using a cDNA membrane array followed by Western blots. Genes whose expression levels were found to be most altered included preprolactin (downregulated) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAP kinase 1; upregulated) in the hippocampus, and acyl‐CoA synthetase (downregulated) and apolipoprotein D (upregulated) in the striatum. Furthermore, MAP kinase 1 and proteosome subunit β precursor was found to meet selection criteria for upregulation in both the hippocampus and striatum. Among other genes found to be most changed in the hippocampus were protein kinase C β I and II, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1β, neuropilin I and II, adenosine receptor A1, and metabotropic glutamate receptor 2/3. The impact of some gene expression alterations on their corresponding protein levels was studied next. In the hippocampus, protein kinase C β I and II, protein tyrosine phosphatase, neuropilin I and II, adenosine receptor A, metabotropic glutamate receptor 2/3, and in the striatum phosphatidyl inositol 4 kinase, mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1, adenylyl cyclase II, dopamine receptors 1A and 2, and cytochrome C oxidase subunit Va gene and protein expression levels were found to be highly correlated. These results suggest the potential involvement of several genes and proteins in the neuropharmacological effects of MK‐801 and possibly the persisting cognitive deficits induced by this repeated drug treatment. Synapse 50:171–180, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modularity in developmental disorders: Evidence from Specific Language Impairment and peripheral dyslexias
Authors: Friedmann Naama , Gvion Aviah
Published: September 2003

Evidence from various subtypes of Specific Language Impairment and developmental peripheral dyslexias is presented to support the idea that even developmental disorders can be modular. However, in developmental letter position dyslexia and neglect dyslexia we show that additional errors can occur because of insufficient orthographic-lexical knowledge.
Is LF really a linguistic level?
Authors: Chater Nick
Published: September 2003

Carruthers’ argument depends on viewing logical form as a linguistic level. But logical form is typically viewed as underpinning general purpose inference, and hence as having no particular connection to language processing. If logical form is tied directly to language, two problems arise: a logical problem concerning language acquisition and the empirical problem that aphasics appear capable of cross-modular reasoning.
Does the use of the dynamic system approach really help fill in the gap between human and nonhuman primate language?
Authors: Vauclair Jacques
Published: September 2003

The highly recommended transposition of the dynamic system approach for tackling the question of apes' linguistic abilities has clearly not led to a demonstration that these primates have acquired language. Fundamental differences related to functional modalities – namely, use of the declarative and the form of engagement between mother and infant – can be observed in the way humans and apes use their communicatory systems.
Current status of plasma emission electronics: I. Basic physical
processes
Authors: GUSHENETS V.I. , OKS E.M. , YUSHKOV G.YU. , REMPE N.G.
Published: September 2003

This paper reviews the physical phenomena that accompany the
emission of electrons and ions from plasma. The development
of plasma emission electronics as an independent research field
is closely associated with the name of its founder, Professor
Kreindel Yu. E. The well-known advantages of plasma electron
emitters (plasma cathodes) are the higher emission current density,
the pulsed emission capability, and the wider range of residual
gas pressures. A peculiar property of the plasma cathode is
the possibility of extracting practically all electrons from
plasma. The parameters of an ion and electron beam extracted
from plasma carry information about the physical processes
occurring in the plasma. This makes it possible to invoke emission
methods to study the fundamental phenomena that take place in
plasma of vacuum arc and low-pressures gas discharges.
Two-dimensional simulation of initiation and evolution of
a plasma channel in the XeCl laser pumping discharge
Authors: BYCHKOV YU.I. , YAMPOLSKAYA S.A. , YASTREMSKY A.G.
Published: September 2003

We present two-dimensional simulation results of the formation
and evolution of a diffuse plasma channel in the XeCl pumping
discharge. Channel formation was initiated by metallic convexity
at the cathode surface with a characteristic dimension of ∼0.1
cm. Two pumping regimes were considered. Initial voltage in
the second regime was increased 1.6 times and impedance was
decreased 2 times in contrast with the first regime. Evolutions
and spatial distributions are presented for electron density,
electric field, and frequencies of the main process. In the
first regime, the diffuse plasma channel forms. The main processes
causing development of the plasma channel are inhomogeneous
distribution of the electric field, increase of the stepwise
ionization frequency at ne
∼ 1015 cm−3, and depletion of HCl.
Increasing of the initial voltage and decreasing of the impedance
in the second regime results in a quick rise of the discharge current
and electron density in the discharge gap, and uniform discharge
takes place during the current pulse.
UV and IR laser radiation's interaction with metal film
and teflon surfaces
Authors: FEDENEV A.V. , ALEKSEEV S.B. , GONCHARENKO I.M. , KOVAL' N.N. , LIPATOV E.I. , ORLOVSKII V.M. , SHULEPOV M.A. , TARASENKO V.F.
Published: September 2003

The interaction of Xe (λ ∼ 1.73 μm) and XeCl (0.308
μm) laser radiation with surfaces of metal and TiN-ceramic
coatings on glass and steel substrates has been studied.
Correlation between parameters of surface erosion versus
laser-specific energy was investigated. Monitoring of laser-induced
erosion on smooth polished surfaces was performed using optical
microscopy. The correlation has been revealed between
characteristic zones of thin coatings damaged by irradiation
and energy distribution over the laser beam cross section allowing
evaluation of defects and adhesion of coatings. The interaction
of pulsed periodical CO2 (λ ∼ 10.6 μm),
and Xe (λ ∼ 1.73 μm) laser radiation with surfaces
of teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene—PTFE) has been studied.
Monitoring of erosion track on surfaces was performed through
optical microscopy. It has been shown that at pulsed periodical
CO2-radiation interaction with teflon the sputtering
of polymer with formation of submicron-size particles occurs.
Dependencies of particle sizes, form, and sputtering velocity
on laser pulse duration and target temperature have been obtained.
Condition for magnetic insulation of the electron beam in
a rod-pinch diode
Authors: KIRIKOV A.V. , BELOMYTTSEV S.YA. , RYZHOV V.V. , TURCHANOVSKY I.YU. , TARAKANOV V.P.
Published: September 2003

A condition for the transition of the electron beam produced
in a coaxial rod-pinch diode to the mode of magnetic insulation
has been established from the law of conservation of particle
and field momentum fluxes. The magnetic field of the external
current has been shown to contribute twice as much to magnetic
insulation of the beam as the magnetic field of the electron
beam self-current. Based on the relations derived, a model has
been constructed for magnetic insulation of the electron flow
in high-current rod-pinch diodes, which are used for radiography
of high speed phenomena. The obtained theoretical results agree
well with the results of numerical calculations and with
experimental data gained at the Naval Research Laboratory (USA).
Improvement of coating deposition and target erosion uniformity
in rotating cylindrical magnetrons
Authors: BUGAEV SERGEI P. , SOCHUGOV NIKOLAY S. , OSKOMOV KONSTANTIN V. , SOLOVJEV ANDREW A. , ZAKHAROV ALEXANDER N.
Published: September 2003

Cylindrical magnetrons with rotating cathodes have found wide
application in the thin-film coating deposition technologies
owing to a higher degree of the target utilization and used
power level as compared with planar magnetrons. The aim of this
work was to increase the efficiency of cylindrical magnetrons.
It is known that the region of uniform coatings deposition with
extended magnetrons is essentially lower than the sputtered
cathode length. The actual achievable cathode utilization degree
is limited, with the regions at cathode ends having a higher
wear rate than the central part. To eliminate these shortcomings,
experiments were carried out on the creation of a magnetic system
to allow an increase of the coating deposition uniformity and
target utilization. Resulting from the investigations that were
carried out, a magnetic system design with an increased magnetic
field at its ends (by 5–15%) and modified turn-around
parts has been developed. This magnetic system design allows
extending the coating deposition region with the uniformity
of ±1% by 12.5 cm and completely eliminating accelerated
erosion of the end cathode parts. The obtained results are
promising for use in technologies of deposition of thin-film
coatings with a high degree of uniformity (no worse than
±1%) onto large-area substrates.
Amorphous hydrogenated carbon films deposited by a closed-drift
ion source
Authors: BUGAEV SERGEI P. , CHUN HUI-GON , SOCHUGOV NIKOLAY S. , OSKOMOV KONSTANTIN V. , ZAKHAROV ALEXANDER N.
Published: September 2003

The general possibility of the extended (∼30 cm) closed-drift
ion source application for deposition of wear-resistant amorphous
hydrogenated carbon (a-C:H) films on large-area dielectric
substrates, in particular, on carbon-fiber plastic, is shown.
Parameters of the “ion” and the “plasma”
regimes of the ion source operation in argon and methane are
defined. It is shown that the ion current nonuniformity is in
the range of ±5–15% depending on the operation
mode. Optimum conditions for the substrate precleaning in argon
and hard, well-adhered a-C:H films deposition from methane are
determined. The films are characterized by high hardness (∼11
GPa) and low surface roughness (∼0.13 nm) that leads to
a several times lower friction coefficient (0.05) and wear rate
(0.001 μm3m−1N−1)
compared to glass and carbon-fiber plastic substrates.
Ligand Binding and Polymerization Characteristics of Human Milk Folate Binding Protein Depend on Concentration of Purified Protein and Presence of Amphiphatic Substances
Authors: Holm Jan , Hansen Steen Ingemann
Published: September 2003

Two folate binding proteins are present in human milk; one of 27 kDa is a cleavage product of the other one (100 kDa) which possesses a hydrophobic membrane anchor. A drastic change of radioligand binding characteristics and appearance of aggregated weak-radioligand affinity forms on gel filtration occurred at low concentrations of both proteins in the absence of Triton X-100 or other amphiphatic substances, e.g. cetyltrimethylammonium and phospholipids. These findings are consistent with a model predicting association between unliganded and liganded monomers resulting in weak-ligand affinity dimers. Amphiphatic substances form micelles and lipid bilayers which could separate hydrophobic unliganded monomers from hydrophilic liganded monomers (monomers become hydrophilic in the liganded state) thereby preventing association between these monomeric forms prevailing at low concentrations of the protein. Bio-Gel P-300 chromatography of the 27 kDa protein revealed a pronounced polymerization tendency, which diminished with decreasing protein concentrations, however, not in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium. The data could have some bearings on observations indicating that naturally occurring amphiphatic substances, cholesterol and phospholipids, are necessary for the important clustering of membrane folate receptors.