bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of neuroblastoma‐related opsoclonus–myoclonus–ataxia syndrome with high‐dose dexamethasone pulses
Authors: Ertle Florian , Behnisch Wolfgang , Al Mulla Naima Ali , Bessisso Mohammed , Rating Dietz , Mechtersheimer Gunhild , Hero Barbara , Kulozik Andreas E.
Published: January 2007

Opsoclonus–myoclonus–ataxia‐syndrome (OMS) represents a rare neuroblastoma‐associated paraneoplastic syndrome that commonly results in neurologic deficits despite tumor resection and immunosuppressive therapy. We describe the response of five such children to high‐dose dexamethasone pulses including two patients in whom previous glucocorticoids, rituximab, and cytostatic drugs were not successful. All patients had MYCN non‐amplified tumors that were detected 1 to 7 months after the onset of the OMS or ataxia. This treatment resulted in a good partial response in three and in complete remission in two patients. Our results show that dexamethasone pulses are likely to be useful for both, first‐line‐ and salvage‐therapy for OMS‐patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:683–687. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cause of mortality in 5‐year survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Mertens Ann C.
Published: January 2007

Survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer are at risk for long‐term effects of disease and treatment. The Childhood Cancer Survivor Study assessed overall and cause‐specific mortality in a retrospective cohort of 20,690 5‐year survivors. Eligible subjects were individuals diagnosed with cancer (from 1970 to 1986) before the age of 21 who had survived 5 years from diagnosis. Underlying cause of death was obtained from death certificates and other sources, then and coded and categorized as recurrent disease, sequel of cancer treatment, or non‐cancer‐related. Age and sex standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated using United States population mortality data. The cohort demonstrated an 8.2‐fold excess in overall mortality (95% confidence interval, 7.9 to 8.5). Recurrence of the original cancer was the leading cause of death among 5‐year survivors, accounting for 57% of deaths. Statistically significant excess mortality rates were seen due to subsequent malignancies (SMR = 15.0), along with cardiac (SMR = 6.9), and pulmonary (SMR = 8.7). There was no increase seen for automotive accidents (SMR = 1.0), other accidents (SMR = 1.3), or suicide (SMR = 1.0). While recurrent disease remains a major contributor to late mortality in 5‐year survivors of childhood cancer, significant excesses in mortality risk associated with treatment‐related complications exist up to 25 years after the initial cancer diagnosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;48:723–726. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The future of pediatric cancer and complex diseases: Aren't they all?
Authors: Chanock Stephen , Yeager Meredith
Published: January 2007

Over the past decade, the investigation of human genetics and disease has pursued both common and uncommon germ‐line variation and shown that both can be associated with altered risk for cancer and its outcomes. This line of investigation has not only begun to generate markers for disease but also insights into the biological pathways that are altered in cancer. Already, there is emerging evidence that germ‐line genetic variation can alter susceptibility to different types of cancers, including pediatric cancers. It is evident that common genetic variation has emerged as a key component of a comprehensive understanding of pediatric cancer and its outcome. Future studies should unravel the complex interaction between genes and the environment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;48:719–722. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interstitial brachytherapy for childhood soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Laskar Siddhartha , Bahl Gaurav , Ann Muckaden Mary , Puri Ajay , Agarwal Manish G. , Patil Nikhilesh , Shrivastava Shyam K. , Dinshaw Ketayun A.
Published: January 2007

Background

To evaluate the efficacy of interstitial brachytherapy (BRT) in children undergoing combined modality treatment for soft tissue sarcomas (STS).

Procedure

From September 1984 to December 2003, 50 children (median age 13 years, range 1 to 18) with STS who received BRT as part of loco‐regional treatment were included. There were 30 males and 20 females, the majority (68%) had primary lesions, synovial sarcoma (32%) was the most common histological type, and 26% had high‐grade lesions. Treatment included wide local excision and BRT with or without external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). Thirty children (60%) received BRT alone.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 51 months, the local control (LC), disease‐free survival, and overall survival were 82%, 68%, and 71%, respectively. LC was superior in patients with tumor size ≤5 cm versus >5 cm (96% vs. 67%, P = 0.04), symptom duration <2 months versus >2 months (100% vs. 73%, P = 0.05), and Grade I versus Grade II versus Grade III tumors (100% vs. 93% vs. 57%, P = 0.03). Children receiving a combination of BRT and EBRT had comparable LC to those receiving BRT alone (78% vs. 84%, P = 0.89). There was no significant difference in LC for patients receiving LDR versus HDR BRT (77% vs. 92%, P = 0.32, for BRT alone; and 67% vs. 100%, P = 0.17, for BRT + EBRT).

Conclusion

Interstitial BRT with or without EBRT appears to result in satisfactory outcome in children with STS. Radical BRT alone, when used judiciously in select groups of children, results in excellent local control and functional outcome with reduced treatment‐related morbidity. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:649–655. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A pilot intervention to enhance psychosexual development in adolescents and young adults with cancer
Authors: Canada Andrea L. , Schover Leslie R. , Li Yisheng
Published: January 2007

Background

Evidence suggests that cancer diagnosed during adolescence and young adulthood may present considerable challenges to what would otherwise be a relatively smooth developmental trajectory, particularly in areas related to reproductive health. We created and pilot tested a two‐session, individually‐delivered, counseling intervention to enhance psychosexual development in this unique population.

Procedures

A total of 21 patients, aged 15 to 25 years and treated for cancer within the past 5 years, completed the counseling intervention. Patients were adaptively randomized to begin the intervention immediately, or to be placed on a 3‐month waitlist, after which time, they were reassessed and began the intervention. The content of the intervention included education, dialog, and support regarding cancer and such issues as sexual development and function, body image, fertility, prevention of sexually transmitted disease and unwanted pregnancy, and romantic relationships (e.g., dating, sexual communication). A 1‐month follow‐up booster call followed the intervention. Questionnaires were completed at baseline, post‐waitlist (for half the sample), post‐treatment, and at 3‐month follow‐up.

Results

Participation in the intervention increased cancer‐specific knowledge regarding sexual issues; improved body image; lessened anxiety about sexual and romantic relationships; and decreased overall level of psychological distress. Gains were maintained through the 3‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions

Addressing issues of reproductive health in the adolescent/young adult with cancer can and should be offered as a part of comprehensive pediatric cancer care. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:824–828. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment of recurrent clear cell sarcoma of the kidney with brain metastasis
Authors: Radulescu Vlad C. , Gerrard Mary , Moertel Chris , Grundy Paul E. , Mathias Liesl , Feusner James , Diller Lisa , Dome Jeffrey S.
Published: January 2007

Background

Clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) is known for its propensity to metastasize to bone, but it also spreads to other sites including the brain. This study was undertaken to describe the treatment and outcomes of patients with recurrent CCSK involving the brain.

Methods

A retrospective records review was conducted on eight patients with CCSK who developed brain metastases after complete responses to initial therapy.

Results

The recurrences occurred at a median of 24.5 months after initial diagnosis (range, 12–53 months). At the time of recurrence, patients were treated with multimodal therapy including biopsy or resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. All patients received a variable number of courses of ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide (ICE), with or without other agents. Four patients received high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell rescue. One patient died from complications of bacteremia 8 weeks after starting chemotherapy. The other seven patients achieved a complete response after either surgery or ICE chemotherapy. Of these, six patients were alive without disease with a median follow‐up of 30 months from the time of recurrence (range, 24 to 71 months). All six survivors received radiation therapy and four had gross total resections. Three survivors received high‐dose chemotherapy with stem cell rescue.

Conclusion

Patients with recurrent CCSK involving the brain can have durable survival after recurrence. ICE chemotherapy, together with radiation therapy and surgery, provides a reasonable salvage regimen for recurrent CCSK. It is unclear whether high‐dose chemotherapy confers a benefit compared to conventional‐dose chemotherapy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:246–249. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Oral anticoagulation with warfarin is significantly influenced by steroids and CYP2C9 polymorphisms in children with cancer
Authors: Ruud Ellen , Holmstrøm Henrik , Bergan Stein , Wesenberg Finn
Published: January 2007

Clinical management of warfarin therapy is complex, and dosing algorithms do not include genetic factors or interactions with other drugs for warfarin dose determinations. We evaluated the interaction of warfarin and CYP2C9 polymorphisms and concomitant corticosteroids in 29 children with cancer. Children with heterozygous polymorphisms of CYP2C9 achieved target INR sooner and more frequently had INR above the target level, compared to children without mutations. Children on concomitant steroids had significantly lower warfarin requirements. Thus, awareness of CYP2C9 genotype and steroid‐induced responsiveness to warfarin may be important when administrating oral anticoagulation in children. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:710–713. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microdielectric analysis and curing kinetics of an epoxy resin system
Authors: Chen Jihua , Hojjati Mehdi
Published: January 2007

Microdielectric analysis (DEA) was carried out to investigate the cure behavior of a bisphenol F epoxy/aromatic amine resin system using an online dielectric cure monitoring technique. Ionic conductivity measured by a microdielectric sensor under isothermal conditions was correlated to the degree of cure and glass‐transition temperature, which are determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Results obtained by isothermal DSC measurement were used to establish a cure kinetic model for the epoxy resin. Experimental results show that the ratio of the ion conductivity to the initial ion conductivity, Logσ/Logσ0, has a linear relation with the glass‐transition temperature. Furthermore, correlations between ion conductivity and degree of cure and cure rate are established using the best fit of the measured data. Cure behavior of the epoxy resin obtained by DEA is compared with that predicted by the cure kinetics model. Good agreement was observed. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:150–158, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
An experimental study of slip flow in capillaries and semihyperbolically converging dies
Authors: Kamerkar P.A. , Edwards B.J.
Published: January 2007

Slip velocity is measured in straight‐walled capillary dies and semihyperbolically converging dies (SHCDs) in three industrial polymer melts, with and without the presence of a viscosity reducing stearic acid (SA) additive. Data taken in shear flow through capillary dies indicated a substantial increase in the slip velocity caused by the addition of the SA. Data taken in the SHCDs showed much less of an increase in the slip velocity of the polymer/additive system relevant to the neat polymer. One possible explanation of this observation is that the magnitude of the slip velocity is directly related to the degree of orientation within the flowing polymeric material. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 47:159–167, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Photopolymerization of ternary thiol–ene/acrylate systems: Film and network properties
Authors: Wei Huanyu , Senyurt Askim F. , Jönsson Sonny , Hoyle Charles E.
Published: January 2007

Photocurable, ternary‐component mixtures of a 1:1 molar multifunctional thiol–ene (trithiol and triallyl ether) blend and a 16‐functional acrylate based monomer have been photopolymerized, and the final film properties of the ternary crosslinked networks have been measured. The photopolymerization kinetics, morphology, and mechanical and physical properties of the films have been investigated with real‐time infrared, atomic force microscopy, and dynamic mechanical analysis. The photopolymerization process is a combination of acrylate homopolymerization and copolymerizations of thiol with allyl ether and acrylate functionalities. The tan δ peaks of the photopolymerized ternary systems are relatively narrow and tunable over a large temperature range. The morphology is characterized by a distinct phase‐separated nanostructure. The photocured thiol–ene/acrylate ternary systems can be made to exhibit good mechanical properties with enhanced energy absorption at room temperature by the appropriate selection of each component concentration. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 822–829, 2007.
Synthesis of optically active polymers containing chiral phosphorus atoms in the main chain
Authors: Morisaki Yasuhiro , Ouchi Yuko , Tsurui Kazuhiko , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: January 2007

We successfully synthesized optically active polymers by using a chiral bisphosphine, (S,S)‐1,2‐bis[boranato(t‐butyl)methylphosphino]ethane, as a key building block. Their structures were characterized with 1H, 13C, and 31P NMR spectra. The obtained polymers exhibited different glass‐transition temperatures depending on the structure of each comonomer, whereas a model compound had a melting point. According to circular dichroism spectra, the difference in the stereochemistry of the comonomers yielded the different higher‐ordered structures of the polymers induced by chiral phosphine units. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 866–872, 2007
Preparation of thermosetting polyurethane nanocomposites by montmorillonite modified with a novel intercalation agent
Authors: Wang Jin‐Cheng , Chen Yue‐Hui , Chen Ren‐Jie
Published: January 2007

A novel thermosetting polyurethane (TSPU)/organic montmorillonite (OMMT) nanocomposite has been synthesized. N‐diamino octadecyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (DODTMAC) was used as an intercalation agent to treat Na+‐montmorillonite (MMT) and form a novel kind of OMMT. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) data indicated that the MMT was successfully intercalated by this intercalation agent, as evidenced by the fact that the basal spacing of MMT galleries was expanded from 1.5 to 3.2 nm. This OMMT was used to prepare the TSPU nanocomposites. Both the reinforcing and compatibilizing performance of the filler were investigated. Tensile tests showed that the tensile strength of TSPU/OMMT‐4 was the highest, and was about 3.62 times higher than that of the pure TSPU, and also the elongation at break showed an enhancement. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) measurements illustrated that the glass transition temperature of the TSPU/OMMT‐4 nanocomposite was improved from 0.5 to 6.5 °C, which corresponded to the restriction of the soft segments of TSPU. The highest initial and center temperatures of TSPU/OMMT‐4 obtained from TGA were due to the highest retard effect of the TSPU molecular chains. WAXD studies showed that the formation of the nanocomposites in all the cases with the almost disappearance of the peaks corresponding to the basal spacing of MMT. SEM and TEM were used to investigate the morphologies of the TSPU/OMMT‐4 nanocomposite, and demonstrated that the nanocomposite was comprised of a well dispersion of a mixture of intercalated and exfoliated silicate layers throughout the matrix. It was proposed that the nano‐reinforcing effect caused by the well‐dispersed silicate layers might reduce the amount and size of voids and increase the length of the crack‐spreading path during tensile drawing. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 519–531, 2007.
Ferroelectric BaTiO3 nanoceramics prepared by a three‐step high‐pressure sintering method
Authors: Xiao C. J. , Zhang W. W. , Chi Z. H. , Li F. Y. , Feng S. M. , Jin C. Q. , Wang X. H. , Li L. T. , Chen R. Z.
Published: January 2007

Dense BaTiO3 nanoceramics with a homogeneous grain size of 30 nm were prepared at 6 GPa, 1000 °C using a three‐step high‐pressure sintering method. The microstructure of the ceramics obtained is uniform and the relative density is above 98% of the theoretical value. Similar to normal BaTiO3 ceramics, successive phase transitions are observed in the 30 nm BaTiO3 ceramics using variable‐temperature X‐ray diffraction measurements. Furthermore the 30 nm BaTiO3 ceramics reveal ferroelectric properties after being post‐annealed at low temperature in O2 atmosphere, but the phase transition temperature from paraelectric to ferroelectric phase is 10 °C lower than that of a normal bulk sample. The results indicate that dense 30 nm BaTiO3 ceramics retain ferroelectricity above room temperature. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Comment on “ESR study of Sr‐doped LaCoO3 cobaltites” [phys. stat. sol. (b) 242, No. 7, 1522–1527 (2005)]
Authors: Rozenberg E.
Published: January 2007

Numerous uncertainties, discrepancies and obscurities are characteristic of both the experimental data and its interpretation presented in the paper by Phan et al. [phys. stat. sol. (b) 242, 1522 (2005)]. The main features of these are mentioned and discussed in this Comment. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electronic structures and spectra of porphyrin with fused benzoheterocycles: DFT and TDDFT‐PCM investigations
Authors: Zhu Yulan , Zhou Shuyu , Kan Yuhe , Su Zhongmin
Published: January 2007

Density functional theory (DFT) and time‐dependent DFT (TDDFT) are applied to study seven asymmetric π‐conjugated porphyrins with extended benzoheterocycles: quinoline, indole, benzoimidazole, benzothiazole, benzooxazole, 2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole, and 2,1,3‐benzoxadiazole. The solvation effects on the excitation energies for these porphyrin derivatives in chloroform are taken into account by using the continuum model (C‐PCM) combined with TDDFT, and this method makes a closer agreement with the experimental values, especially for the B‐bands of these objects. Great efforts have been made on investigating the influences of the fused aromatic units of the porphyrins on the absorption properties as these can be particularly important for many applications. Benzoheterocycle introduction and solvent effects have been systemically investigated, and close agreement is obtained between calculated and measured UV–vis spectra. These theoretical data could shed light on future synthetic chemistry. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
New lower bound formula from the local energy
Authors: Marmorino M. G.
Published: January 2007

A new formula to determine a lower bound to the ground‐state energy of an electronic system is presented making use of the local energy. Two‐electron atoms are considered and each lower bound is not only superior to the traditional lower bound, which is just the minimum of the local energy, but is also closer to the exact energy than the Hamiltonian expectation value that uses the same trial function. In this method, we have removed the restriction that the trial function be non‐zero. Lower bound methods using the local energy have the advantage that the expectation value of the squared Hamiltonian or another potentially difficult integral does not have to be calculated as in many other lower bound methods. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Ring opening of boriranes vis‐à‐vis aziridines: An ab initio and DFT probe on the mechanisms
Authors: Kalaiselvan Anbarasan , Venuvanalingam Ponnambalam
Published: January 2007

Borirane undergoes ring opening reaction with NOCl and HNF2 yielding the corresponding alkenes. Ab initio and density functional investigations of this reaction with cis‐ and trans‐2,3‐dimethylboriranes reveal that these reactions take place in a single step through the formation of a prereactive complex and a transition state giving the alkene with the same stereochemistry. Calculations clearly show that the concerted cleavage of CB bonds leads to retention of stereochemistry. Further, it shows that HNF2 cleaves boriranes more efficiently than does NOCl. Intrinsic reaction coordinate analyses and bond order analysis describe the nature of the transition state very well and fix the reaction mechanism. Solvent effect calculations through PCM model, with acetonitrile and CCl4 as solvents, do not alter the gas phase results significantly. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Use of survey and clinical data for screening and diagnosis
Authors: Chetty V. K. , Bruce Zellner B.
Published: January 2007

Background: U.S. prevalence of diabetes in 2005 was 20.8 million people (6.2 million undiagnosed) (Diabetes Statistics. 2006). Recognizable preclinical stage is between 7 and 12 years. Efficient screening and early diagnosis can help: 1. avoid or delay development of diabetes. 2. treat early and avoid co‐morbidities.

Design: Retrospective cross‐sectional study of 153 113 adults ages 24 to 83 from the Behavioural Risk Factor Surveillance Systems (BRFSS)—2003 of whom 4379 had diabetes at their current age or during the previous year and 2190 adults ages 40 to 74 from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III, 211 of whom had glucose tolerance test result ⩾ 200 mg/dL.

Objectives: To develop statistical models for screening and diagnosis.

Methods: Logistic and generalized linear and additive regression models, Akaike information criterion, area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, Bayes rule.

Results: Area under the ‘productivity’ curve using BRFSS data is 0.65 indicating an average yield of 17.3 per cent. Survey data is useful also for diagnosis. Area under the ROC curve (AUC) using only survey data is 0.68. AUC for fasting plasma glucose (FPG) alone is 0.91. Stepwise drop one method of selecting co‐variates for diagnosis included pre‐test probability from BRFSS. When both FPG and pre‐test information are included, AUC increases to 0.93. Reduction in residual deviance and 0.02 increase in AUC are statistically significant (p = 0.0012). Clinical significance of prior odds is shown by increase in accuracy and weighted average of sensitivity and specificity. Empirically estimated regression weights for pre‐test and test information vary with age and race and are not equal, as required by Baye's theorem. Overfitting index was less than 1 per cent.

Conclusions: Cross‐section surveys are useful for increasing screening efficiency and diagnostic accuracy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differences in African‐American and European‐American students' engagement with nanotechnology experiences: Perceptual position or assessment artifact?
Authors: Jones M. Gail , Tretter Thomas , Paechter Manuela , Kubasko Dennis , Bokinsky Alexandra , Andre Thomas , Negishi Atsuko
Published: January 2007

This study examined middle and high school students' perceptions of a weeklong science experience with nanotechnology and atomic force microscopy. Through an examination of student self assessments and their writing, the study allowed us to examine some of the issues that may contribute to discrepancies that are seen between European‐American and African‐American students in science. The results of the study showed that after instruction, African‐American students were significantly more likely to agree with the statement that “science involves mostly memorizing things and getting the right answer,” than European‐American students. In addition, European‐American students were significantly more likely to write their newspaper stories from a first person perspective than their African‐American peers. The results are discussed in light of the assessment task, students' interpretations of formal writing, cultural differences in the use of language in writing, and possible cultural differences in students' perceptions of the science experience. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 44: 787–799, 2007
Activity‐based identity experiences and their relations to problem behavior and psychological well‐being in adolescence
Authors: Palen Lori‐Ann , Coatsworth J. Douglas
Published: January 2007

The current study explored the associations between activity‐based identity experiences and youth outcomes. Participants were 107 high school students and one parent or guardian of each from three communities in a Northeastern state. Youth completed a measure of activity‐based identity experiences (Personally Expressive Activities Questionnaire (PEAQ) [Waterman, A. S. (1990). Personal expressiveness: Philosophical and psychological foundations. Journal of Mind and Behavior, 11, 47–74]), as well as measures of psychological well‐being, substance use, and delinquency. Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist [Achenbach, T. M. (1991). Manual for the Child Behavior Checklist/4‐18 and 1991 profile. Burlington, VT: University of Vermont Department of Psychiatry]. Together, three identity experiences derived from the PEAQ, personal expressiveness, goal‐directed behavior, and flow, were significant predictors of adolescent‐reported delinquency and well‐being. Goal‐directed behavior also uniquely predicted adolescent‐reported delinquency and well‐being. Suggestions for future research and potential implications for intervention are discussed.
Critical role of PTEN in the coupling between PI3K/Akt and JNK1/2 signaling in ischemic brain injury
Authors: Zhang Quan-Guang , Wu Dong-Na , Han Dong , Zhang Guang-Yi
Published: January 2007

JNK pathway is an important pro‐apoptotic kinase cascade mediating cell death in response to a variety of extracellular stimuli including excitotoxicity, which results in selective and delayed neuronal death in the hippocampal CA1. On the contrary, activation of the protein kinase Akt, which is controlled by the opposing actions of PI3K and PTEN, contributes to enhanced resistance to apoptosis through multiple mechanisms. We here demonstrate that the temporal pattern of Akt activation reversely correlates with JNK1/2 activation following various time points of ischemic reperfusion. However, the activation of JNK1/2 could be decreased by the elevation of Akt activation via increasing the tyrosine phosphorylation of PTEN by bpv(pic), a potent PTPases inhibitor for PTEN, or by intracerebroventricular infusion of PTEN antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS‐ODNs). In contrast, JNK1/2 activation was significantly increased by preventing PTEN degradation after pretreatment with proteasome inhibitor. The neuroprotective effects of bpv(pic) and PTEN AS‐ODNs were significant in the CA1 subfield after transient global ischemia. In conclusion, the present results clearly show that PTEN plays a key regulatory role in the cross‐talk between cell survival PI3K/Akt pathway and pro‐death JNK pathway, and raise a new possibility that agents targeting phosphatase PTEN may offer a great promise to expand the therapeutic options in protecting neurons form ischemic brain damage.
From sequence to antibody: Genetic immunisation is suitable to generate antibodies against a rare plant membrane protein, the KAT 1 channel
Authors: Gehwolf Renate , Weiss Richard , Gabler Maximilian , Hurst Annette C. , Bertl Adam , Thalhamer Josef , Obermeyer Gerhard
Published: January 2007

Monoclonal antibodies against the K+ channel KAT1 of Arabidopsis thaliana, a low abundance, plant plasma membrane protein, were generated by genetic immunisation to avoid the time and labour consuming purification of native or recombinant proteins and peptides usually necessary for conventional immunisation techniques. The resulting polyclonal and monoclonal antibody sera recognised a single protein band in a microsomal fraction of wild‐type A. thaliana leaves and in membrane fractions of transgenic yeast cells and tobacco plants expressing the KAT1 protein. Therefore, genetic immunisation is suitable for generating monoclonal antibodies against plant proteins and particularly, against plant membrane proteins of low abundance.
Solution structure of an atypical WW domain in a novel β‐clam‐like dimeric form
Authors: Ohnishi Satoshi , Güntert Peter , Koshiba Seizo , Tomizawa Tadashi , Akasaka Ryogo , Tochio Naoya , Sato Manami , Inoue Makoto , Harada Takushi , Watanabe Satoru , Tanaka Akiko , Shirouzu Mikako , Kigawa Takanori , Yokoyama Shigeyuki
Published: January 2007

The WW domain is known as one of the smallest protein modules with a triple‐stranded β‐sheet fold. Here, we present the solution structure of the second WW domain from the mouse salvador homolog 1 protein. This WW domain forms a homodimer with a β‐clam‐like motif, as evidenced by size exclusion chromatography, analytical ultracentrifugation and NMR spectroscopy. While typical WW domains are believed to function as monomeric modules that recognize proline‐rich sequences, by using conserved aromatic and hydrophobic residues that are solvent‐exposed on the surface of the β‐sheet, this WW domain buries these residues in the dimer interface.
Python and Automated Laboratory System Control
Authors: Cahn Matthew H. , Russo Mark F.
Published: January 2007

The Python programming language is reviewed, with an emphasis on features and add-on modules useful for solving problems in the field of laboratory automation. Complexities of multi-instrument automated system control and coordination are discussed, along with the difficulties that arise when multitasking is used to implement system controllers. We introduce Python's generators, a feature not found in other popular languages, and demonstrate how to use them to simplify the development of multi-instrument laboratory automation system controllers.
Motor Recovery and The Breathing Arm After Brachial Plexus Surgical Repairs, Including Re-Implantation of Avulsed Spinal Roots Into The Spinal Cord
Authors: HTUT M. , MISRA V. P. , ANAND P. , BIRCH R. , CARLSTEDT T.
Published: January 2007

Forty-four patients with severe traction brachial plexus avulsion injuries were studied following surgical repairs. In eight patients, re-implanting avulsed spinal roots directly to the spinal cord was performed with other repairs and motor recovery in the proximal limb was similar to that achieved by conventional nerve grafts and transfers when assessed using the MRC clinical grades, Narakas scores, EMG and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Thirty-four of the 37 patients had co-contractions of agonist and antagonist muscle groups. Spontaneous contractions of limb muscles in synchrony with respiration, the “breathing arm”, were noted in 26 of 37 patients: in three patients, the source of the breathing arm was from spinal cord re-connection, providing evidence of regeneration from the CNS to the periphery. Our study shows that re-connection of avulsed spinal roots can produce good motor recovery and provides a clinical model for developing new treatments which may enhance nerve regeneration.
Fluvial environmental contexts for archaeological sites in the Upper Khabur basin (northeastern Syria)
Authors: Deckers Katleen , Riehl Simone
Published: January 2007

Today the eastern tributaries of the Upper Khabur run dry during the summer and the landscape is devoid of trees. This picture is misleading when we try to understand archaeological sites within their former environmental context. Interdisciplinary geomorphological, archaeobotanical and ostracod research on a sequence from the Wadi Jaghjagh indicates that relatively stable, perennial flow velocities occurred during the mid 4th to mid-3rd millennium BC. Evidence was found for a gallery forest and swamp belt along the Jaghjagh during the mid-4th millennium BC. Oak park woodland was present within the region in the 3rd millennium BC and probably up to at least the 3rd century AD. Shortly after 2500 BC, Jaghjagh stream velocities probably decreased or the stream bed had changed its location. Later deposits, possibly dating to the 5th century BC, indicate similar, rather stable flow of the Jaghjagh. More recently however, about ca. AD 900 or afterwards, a flashflood-like regime occurred, which may relate to deforestation. The Wadi Khanzir sediment archives reflect the flashy intermittent regime of this stream, like it still is today, with flashflood evidence dating to the first half of the Holocene and probably dating to approximately AD 400 or later. Along the Jarrah, topsoil was eroded and redeposited by the wadi sometime between 1300 and 600 BC. This may have been caused by the intensive resettlement program of this region around 800 BC. Between about 600 and 300 BC 1.5 m of clay was deposited on the plain.
Effect of subclinical intramammary infection on somatic cell counts and chemical composition of goats' milk
Authors: Min Byeng R , Tomita Grant , Hart Steve P
Published: January 2007

We investigated effects of subclinical intramammary infection (IMI) on milk somatic cell count (SCC) and milk composition in udder halves of dairy goats. A total of 35 mixed-age Alpine does (70 udder halves; approximately 55 kg body weight) were rotationally grazed on a mixture of vegetative forages (wheat/berseem clover, sudan grass and cowpeas). Milk samples for bacterial analysis and SCC were collected monthly from both halves from April to September, 2001. Across stages of lactation, 19–31% of udder halves became infected. The prevalence of IMI exhibited quadratic patterns through multi-peaked responses within each stage of lactation. Higher rates of IMI were observed during the early stage of lactation (19% in May) and in the late stage of lactation (31% in September). Coagulase negative Staphylococcus (CNS, 43·7%), Staph. aureus (35·4%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (12·4%) were the most prevalent pathogens. Within single-strain IMI, log SCC (6·24) was lower (P<0·01) for CNS than those derived from IMI by Staph. aureus (6·49), Ps. aeruginosa (6·53) or Serratia spp. (6·90). Infected udder halves had a higher average SCC (4761 v. 2259×103 cells/ml; P<0·01) than uninfected halves, but uninfected halves often had similar levels of SCC to infected halves. Daily average milk production was not significantly different between infected and non-infected goats and the relationship between IMI and SCC was not always correlated. Effective mastitis screening requires bacteriological culture since SCC was not highly correlated.
Intramammary infections in heifers during early lactation following intramammary infusion of pirlimycin hydrochloride or penicillin-novobiocin at the first milking after parturition
Authors: Oliver Stephen P , Headrick Susan I , Gillespie Barbara E , Lewis Mark J , Johnson David L , Lamar Kenneth C , Moorehead Hugh , Dowlen Henry H , Hallberg John W
Published: January 2007

A study was conducted to determine whether intramammary antibiotic treatment of heifer mammary glands following the first milking after calving was effective for reducing the percentage of mammary quarters infected during early lactation. Jersey and Holstein heifers from two research herds were assigned to one of three treatment groups: (1) no intramammary infusion following the first milking after parturition, (2) intramammary infusion of all quarters with pirlimycin hydrochloride following the first milking after parturition and (3) intramammary infusion of all quarters with novobiocin sodium plus penicillin G procaine following the first milking after parturition. Almost 93% of Jersey heifers (40/43) and 73·1% of quarters (125/171) were infected at the first milking. Almost 77% of quarters (33/43) were cured following treatment with pirlimycin, 61·8% (21/34) were cured following treatment with penicillin-novobiocin and 39·6% (19/48) of infections were eliminated spontaneously in the untreated control group. Significantly fewer infections were observed in pirlimycin or penicillin-novobiocin treated mammary glands of Jersey heifers during early lactation than in untreated control mammary glands. Almost 89% of Holstein heifers (32/36) and 52·8% of quarters (76/144) were infected at the first milking. About 57% (12/21) of quarters were cured following treatment with pirlimycin, 41·4% (12/29) were cured following treatment with penicillin-novobiocin and 23·1% (6/26) of infections were eliminated spontaneously in the untreated negative control group. Significantly fewer infections were observed in pirlimycin treated mammary glands of Holstein heifers during early lactation than in untreated control mammary glands. However, no significant differences were observed following penicillin-novobiocin treatment of Holstein heifers after the first milking of lactation compared with untreated control quarters. Coagulase-negative staphylococci, Streptococcus uberis and Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp dysgalactiae were isolated most frequently in heifers from both herds.
Aphasie als Hirnschlagsymptom: Häufigkeit und Bedeutung
Authors: Engelter
Published: January 2007

Eine Aphasie liegt bei 21–38% aller ischämischer Hirnschlagpatienten vor. Das Risiko, eine Aphasie als Hirnschlagsymtom zu erleiden, steigt mit dem Alter an, während das Geschlecht keinen Risikofaktor darstellt. Aphasiker unter den Hirnschlagpatienten haben eine doppelt so hohe Mortalität wie Nichtaphasiker. Auch sind die Chancen, ein selbständiges, unabhängiges Leben wiederzuerlangen kompromittiert, wenn eine Aphasie vorliegt. Dennoch erreichen bis 40% der Aphasiker eine weitgehende Erholung ihrer Sprachfunktion. Die Frage, ob Logopädie bei aphasischen Hirnschlagpatienten von Nutzen ist, kann basierend auf der Studienlage nicht abschliessend beantwortet werden. Dennoch scheint eine hochfrequente, intensive Sprachtherapie in den ersten Wochen einer niederfrequenten Logopädie über einen längeren Zeitraum überlegen zu sein. Trotz ermutigender Erfahrungen mit unterstützenden Pharmaka werden weitere methodologisch einwandfreie und ausreichend grosse Studien nötig sein, bevor klar ist, ob und wie sich die funktionelle Spracherholung pharmakologisch günstig beeinflussen lässt.
Therapie mit Lithiumsalzen in der Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie - Klinische Wirksamkeit und praktische Empfehlungen
Authors: Gerlach Manfred , Baving Lioba , Fegert Joerg
Published: January 2007

Zusammenfassung: Lithiumsalze gehören zu der Psychopharmakaklasse der Stimmungsstabilisierer oder Phasenprophylaktika und sind im Kindes- und Jugendalter Medikamente der ersten Wahl in der Behandlung manischer Episoden sowie zur Phasenprophylaxe bei bipolaren affektiven Störungen. Weitere Indikationen sind episodisch auftretende, impulsiv-explosive Ausbrüche aggressiven Verhaltens. Jedoch gibt es für die Anwendung bei Kindern präparateabhängige Einschränkungen. Hinsichtlich der Behandlung manischer Zustände weist die Datenlage für das Jugendalter den Evidenzgrad II auf, für das Kindesalter den Evidenzgrad III-IV. Für die Indikation der Phasenprophylaxe bei bipolaren Störungen liegt für das Jugendalter der Evidenzgrad IV vor, für das Kindesalter der Evidenzgrad V. Hinsichtlich der Indikation der episodisch-impulsiven Aggressivität weist die Datenlage für das Kindes- sowie Jugendalter den Evidenzgrad II auf. Evidenzgrad II bedeutet, dass mindestens eine gut angelegte, randomisierte und kontrollierte Studie vorliegt; Evidenzgrad III beruht auf nicht-randomisierten Studien, Evidenzgrad IV auf nicht-experimentellen Studien und Evidenzgrad V bedeutet, dass nur Berichte und Meinungen von Expertenkreisen, Konsensuskonferenzen und klinische Erfahrungswerte vorliegen. Die Dosierung ist aufgrund der sehr geringen therapeutischen Breite streng nach der Lithiumserumkonzentration auszurichten, die zwischen 0,6 und 1,2 mmol/l liegen sollte. Letztendlich ausschlaggebend für die Dosierung ist jedoch das klinische Bild. In der Regel ist eine zweimalige Gabe der Lithiumpräparate, morgens und abends, angezeigt. Der Kontrolle der unerwünschten Wirkungen einer Therapie mit Lithiumsalzen kommt aufgrund ihrer möglichen Schweregrade und der sehr geringen therapeutischen Breite von Lithiumsalzen eine entscheidende Bedeutung zu. Eine Lithiumkonzentration im Serum von 1,5 mmol/l darf keinesfalls überschritten werden. Alle potenziell auftretenden unerwünschten Wirkungen (bis auf die seltene Nierenschädigung) sind entweder durch Dosisreduktion oder - falls möglich und notwendig - durch Absetzen der Lithiummedikation reversibel. Schlüsselwörter: Phasenprophylaktika, Psychopharmakotherapie, manisch-depressive Erkrankung, impulsive Aggressivität
Occupational Standards and Competence-Based Qualifications for Professional Applied Psychologists in the UK
Authors: Bartram Dave
Published: January 2007

The paper outlines the development of employment-led qualifications in the UK. These qualifications have been based upon a notion of competence at work, defined in terms of standards developed using a functional approach to occupational analysis. While initial developments focused on standards development and the design of qualification at “lower levels”, there has been increasing interest in extending the approach to the analysis of higher level professional, technical and managerial occupations. The paper reports the work being carried out by the British Psychological Society on the development of occupational standards for applied psychology and reports on some of the key issues emerging from this project. These include the problem of identifying and specifying the knowledge, understanding and skills required for competence at work and the relationship between the criteria for the award of qualifications and those related to entry into a profession as a practitioner.
Traumatic Stress and Its Risk Factors Among Peripheral Victims of the M/S Estonia Disaster
Authors: Lindeman Marjaana , Saari Salli , Verkasalo Markku , Prytz Helena
Published: January 2007

This study explores short- and long-term traumatic stress and the related risk factors among peripheral victims of the M/S Estonia disaster. The participants, characterized as fourth- and sixth-level victims, were 135 crew members (50 males and 85 females) of one of the Finnish ferries that took part in the rescue operation. The participants retrospectively filled in a wide-ranging questionnaire including items for 44 stress symptoms 1 week, 1 month, and 8 months after the disaster. A factor analysis produced three orthogonal symptom types: general traumatic stress symptoms, fear, and somatic symptoms. In addition, behavioural changes, changes in world view, and the impact of several risk factors (e.g., past traumas, avoidance behavior, appraisal of symptoms, social support) were analyzed. The results indicated that fourth- and sixth-level disaster victims suffer from traumatic stress at least as much as third-level victims (professional helpers), that women experience more psychological problems than men, and that different symptom types progress in different ways and stem from different risk factors.
The Contribution of Pavlov's Typology of CNS Properties to Personality Research
Authors: Strelau Jan
Published: January 2007

This paper presents Pavlov's contribution to the development of biological-oriented personality theories. Taking a short description of Pavlov's typology of central nervous system (CNS) properties as a point of departure, it shows how, and to what extent, this typology influenced further research in the former Soviet Union as well as in the West. Of special significance for the development of biologically oriented personality dimensions was the conditioned reflex paradigm introduced by Pavlov for studying individual differences in dogs. This paradigm was used by Russian psychologists in research on types of nervous systems conducted in different animal species as well as for assessing temperament in children and adults. Also, personality psychologists in the West, such as Eysenck, Spence, and Gray, incorporated the CR paradigm into their theories. Among the basic properties of excitation and inhibition on which Pavlov's typology was based, strength of excitation and the basic indicator of this property, protective inhibition, gained the highest popularity in arousaloriented personality theories. Many studies have been conducted in which the Pavlovian constructs of CNS properties have been related to different personality dimensions. In current research the behavioral expressions of the Pavlovian constructs of strength of excitation, strength of inhibition, and mobility of nervous processes as measured by the Pavlovian Temperament Survey (PTS) have been related to over a dozen of personality dimensions, mostly referring to temperament.
Researching the Origins of Knowledge about Mental States
Authors: Surian Luca
Published: January 2007

The development of knowledge about agents has recently been subject to intensive study, as witnessed by the burgeoning literature on children's theory of mind. This article focuses on two central issues in the literature: the early emergence and the selective impairment of understanding of mental states. Experimental studies on both normal and deviant development (in children with autism) are reviewed. It is argued that the available evidence is consistent with a theoretical position that assumes domain-specific constraints and specialized learning mechanisms in cognitive development.
Features of the zonal mean circulation in the Southern Hemisphere during the Last Glacial Maximum
Authors: Drost Frank , Renwick James , Bhaskaran B. , Oliver Hilary , McGregor James
Published: January 2007

Characteristics of the zonal mean circulation of the Southern Hemisphere during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) are investigated. Using a high‐resolution global atmospheric climate model set up under Paleoclimate Modeling Intercomparison Project glacial conditions, the output is compared with the output from a control simulation. Accounting for the biases in the model, differences between the control and LGM circulation are ascribed to the climate of the LGM. During the LGM, the mean zonal winds were slightly stronger at midlatitudes and weaker at high latitudes, implying a small equatorward shift of the polar trough in the zonal mean. The amplitude of the wave number 3 pattern of the general circulation was slightly larger, particularly during the austral winter, and there was a slight shift to shorter wavelengths in the planetary waves. Meridional heat transport at midlatitudes was reduced which was mainly the result of an increase in the occurrence and strength of southerly winds. However, meridional heat transport by the transient eddies had increased slightly north of 60°S.