bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The War on Culture, the War on Truth
Authors: Denzin Norman K.
Published: May 2004

I will never apologize for the United States—I don’t care what the facts are.

—George H. W. Bush, quoted in Roy (2003, p. 77)

Intelligence gathered by this and other governments leaves no doubt that the Iraq regime continues to possess and conceal some of the most lethal weapons ever devised.

—George W. Bush, March 17, 2003
“The Whole Operation of Deception”: Reconstructing President Bush’s Rhetoric of Weapons of Mass Destruction
Authors: Hartnett Stephen J. , Stengrim Laura A.
Published: May 2004

Based on analyses of seven pre-war intelligence documents, we demonstrate that estimates of Iraq’s alleged weapons of mass destruction (WMD) programs were laced with ambiguities and contradictions. Yet President Bush turned this contested intelligence into a heroic rhetoric of certainty, hence dragging the U.S. into war on the basis of lies. Based on a comprehensive critique of their post-9/11 speeches and testimonies, we offer a four-step rhetorical schema for analyzing how President Bush and Secretary of State Colin Powell constructed these lies. We thus offer readers both a critique of Bush administration deceptions and the critical rhetorical tools necessary to recognize and decode future governmental deception. Then, focusing on the post-war revelations offered by Joseph Wilson, which in turn prompted a vicious administration attack on Wilson and his wife, Valerie Plame, we analyze the labyrinthine cover-up the Bush administration has used to conceal its lies about Iraqi WMD.
A Model of Levels of Involvement and Strategic Roles of Human Resource Development (HRD) Professionals as Facilitators of Due Diligence and the Integration Process
Authors: McIntyre Tammy L.
Published: May 2004

This article presents a model of the levels of involvement and key strategic roles of human resource development (HRD) professionals during mergers and acquisitions (M&A), as supported by literary findings. Traditionally, mergers and acquisitions are initiated by the parent company’s finance expertise, with little or no input from its HRD expertise. Often, when HRD is involved in the process, it becomes involved during the postacquisition period. This oversight has been noted as a primary cause of failed M&A. Employees, the focus of HRD, are the vital means through which organizations improve their financial, organization, process, and job performance. Because such improvements are the primary goals of M&A, it is essential that HRD professionals are involved early in the M&A process. More specifically, HRD professionals must be involved in due diligence and integration planning activities. Additionally, the article explores the relationship between levels of involvement and postacquisition integration success.
Behavioral Couple Therapy in the Treatment of a Female Alcohol-Dependent Patient With Comorbid Depression, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders
Authors: Vedel Ellen , Emmelkamp Paul M. G.
Published: May 2004

Behavioral Couple Therapy (BCT) has shown to be effective in the treatment of alcohol dependence. However, it is still unclear whether this intervention is effective in severe caseswith comorbid other conditions. The aim of the present study is to illustrate the assessment, case conceptualization, prioritizing of interventions and treatment in a female “treatment resistant” alcohol-dependent patient, with comorbid depression, anxiety, personality disorders, andmarital problems, using a BCT manual. In total, the treatment consisted of 19 sessions, during a 7-month period. Results show BCT to be successful in treating alcohol dependence and to some extent increasing marital satisfaction. At posttreatment the patient did no longer meet criteria for major depressive disorder. At 3-month follow-up she had been abstinent for 51/2 months, with a 2-day lapse, and her depressive disorder was still in full remission. This case demonstrates—even with severe comorbid conditions—that targeting the drinking problem is the treatment of choice. However, we stress the importance of a thorough assessment of other Axis I and II disorders.
Extra-Articular Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis
Authors: Rekha A. , Sundaram Sandhya , Ravi A. , Narasimhan R.
Published: May 2004

Villonodular synovitis are a group of idiopathic lesions that affect the synovial surfaces of joints, tendon sheaths, and bursae, causing tumor-like lesions. Pigmented villonodular synovitis rarely affects the tendon sheaths; its occurrence in extra-articular sites is uncommon. This case is presented for the rarity of occurrence. The literature is also reviewed.
LJP 1082: a toleragen for Hughes syndrome
Authors: Merrill J T
Published: May 2004

A hallmark of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and related autoimmune diseases such as the antiphospholipid syndrome (APL or Hughes syndrome) is an apparent breakdown in tolerance, the process by which the body distinguishesself from nonself in order to maintain a versatile immune defense while protecting itself from self-annihilation.To some extent, loss of tolerance is a desirable feature of host immunity, and is known to occur in healthy individuals. Optimal tolerance then is probably not an all or nothing phenomenon. Autoimmunity should be seen as a breakdown in homeostasis rather than a completely aberrant kind of immunity. This leads to special considerations in the assessment of potentially toleragenic therapies, in which an attempt is made to re-educate the immune system. LJP 1082 is designed as a polyvalent antigenic structure aimed at crosslinking specific surface immunoglobulin and tolerizing B cells to β2-glycoprotein I. Issues of antigenic selection and multiplex forces influencing tolerance and immunity may have impact on its optimal development and use in patients.
Autologous stem cell transplantation for systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Jayne D , Tyndall A
Published: May 2004

Some patients with severe systemic lupus erythematosus do not respond to conventional immunosuppression or suffer severe side effects from such treatment. In order to explore the concept of immunoablationfollowed by haematopoieticstem cell transplantation(HSCT) or ‘rescue’, an internationalcollaboration has occurred over the past seven years. The European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation(EBMT) and The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) have analysed their collective phase I and II studies and found a remission rate (based on a reduction of the SLEDAI to < 3) in 66%, one-third of whom later relapsed to some degree. The most often used protocol was cyclophosphamide (CY) and G-CSF for mobilization and CY plus anti thymocyte globulin as conditioning. Procedure related mortality was 12% in this sick group of patients with major organ involvement. The North American, mostly single centre experience showed higher rates of remission and one procedure related death. Some relapse was also observed. Phase II studies designed to assess the role of post-HSCT maintenance therapy are being considered by the EBMT/EULAR group.
Feasibility of neuropsychological testing of older adults via videoconference: implications for assessing the capacity for independent living
Authors: Hildebrand Roger , Chow Hau , Williams Catherine , Nelson Monty , Wass Peter
Published: May 2004

We examined the feasibility of administering neuropsychological tests via videoconference. Twenty-nine participants from central Alberta volunteered for the study. All were 60 years of age or older and were without neurological or psychiatric disturbance. All the participants were tested under two experimental conditions: face to face and via videoconference (at a bandwidth of 336 or 384 kbit/s). Memory and learning, letter fluency, expressive word knowledge, reasoning, verbal attention and visual–spatial processing were examined. Scores for expressive word knowledge were similar in the two test conditions, although larger differences were found in the visual–spatial processing scores. Following the final testing session, participants were given a questionnaire which explored their reactions to the technology. There was no significant difference in the proportions of participants who expressed a preference for each mode of testing. All participants were comfortable with the technology.
Performance of a Web-based, realtime, tele-ultrasound consultation system over high-speed commercial telecommunication lines
Authors: Yoo Sun K , Kim D K , Jung S M , Kim E-K , Lim J S , Kim J H
Published: May 2004

A Web-based, realtime, tele-ultrasound consultation system was designed. The system employed ActiveX control, MPEG-4 coding of full-resolution ultrasound video (640 × 480 pixels at 30 frames/s) and H.320 videoconferencing. It could be used via a Web browser. The system was evaluated over three types of commercial line: a cable connection, ADSL and VDSL. Three radiologists assessed the quality of compressed and uncompressed ultrasound video-sequences from 16 cases (10 abnormal livers, four abnormal kidneys and two abnormal gallbladders). The radiologists' scores showed that, at a given frame rate, increasing the bit rate was associated with increasing quality; however, at a certain threshold bit rate the quality did not increase significantly. The peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR) was also measured between the compressed and uncompressed images. In most cases, the PSNR increased as the bit rate increased, and increased as the number of dropped frames increased. There was a threshold bit rate, at a given frame rate, at which the PSNR did not improve significantly. Taking into account both sets of threshold values, a bit rate of more than 0.6 Mbit/s, at 30 frames/s, is suggested as the threshold for the maintenance of diagnostic image quality.
Examination of Proof Test Extrapolation for Drilled Shafts
Authors: Ooi PSK , Chang BKF , Seki GY
Published: May 2004

The difference between a load test and a proof test is that in a load test, the foundation is loaded to failure, whereas in a proof test, it is usually tested to the design load times the desired margin of safety, and failure may not necessarily be reached. Paikowsky and Tolosko (1999) presented and examined methodologies for obtaining the ultimate capacity from proof test data for driven piles. Load test data on drilled shafts supporting the H-3 freeway viaduct on the island of Oahu in Hawaii are used to test six extrapolation techniques by incrementally truncating the load versus settlement data and then comparing the predicted with measured capacities. With some limitations, several of these methods can be used to provide very reliable estimates of capacity of drilled shafts from proof tests, verifying the recommendations of Paikowsky and Tolosko. The more reliable methods and their limitations are identified and ways of maximizing the accuracy are suggested. With increased confidence in the use of extrapolation techniques, substantial savings can be realized in the construction industry and the engineering community. Also, in deriving the top-down load-settlement curves for the shafts tested with the Osterberg load cell, a simple method is proposed to account for the elastic compression of the shaft.
Measurement of Energy and Strength of Sand at Critical State
Authors: Muhunthan B , Pillai VS , Olcott D
Published: May 2004

The energy input during shear deformation of sand is expended by three components: resistance against particle-to-particle frictional deformation, volumetric or nonrecoverable plastic deformation, and elastic deformation of the soil grains. These three components are identified for the shearing deformation of sand in triaxial compression using the energy balance principle. A new experimental technique to measure the elastic energy of sands is proposed. Shear resistance against particle-to-particle frictional deformation is then determined after applying corrections to the measured shear strength for plastic volumetric and elastic deformations. The shear resistance against particle-to-particle frictional deformation is shown to be the critical state strength of sand.

The technique is illustrated with drained triaxial compression tests on Ottawa Sand. It has been found that the shear resistance against particle-to-particle friction deformation or the critical state strength attains a constant value at small strains. The conventional techniques to determine the critical state strength require it to be strained to large strains. At such large strains, it is not possible to achieve the critical state condition uniformly throughout the sample in a laboratory setup. This has led to many problems with the reliable measurement of the shear strength of sands at the critical state and the establishment of the critical state condition. The ability to measure the critical state strength at small strain levels overcomes such difficulties.
Characterization of SASW Phase Angle and Phase Velocity Measurement Uncertainty
Authors: Marosi KT , Hiltunen DR
Published: May 2004

The spectra-analysis-of-surface-waves (SASW) method is a nondestructive test for characterization of the variation with depth of the shear wave velocity of soils. While the testing procedure is well developed, only one preliminary study has investigated measurement uncertainty associated with SASW, and the methods utilized to quantify measurement uncertainty were prohibitive to routine assessment. Knowledge of this uncertainty, and ability to include its assessment in routine testing, would allow for inclusion of SASW results in reliability based design and in assessment of the spatial variability of shear modulus.

In this study, a large sample of test data was collected from two test sites. Characteristic statistics, statistical distribution, and measurement uncertainty were determined for each phase of SASW. Using the empirical statistical properties and measurement uncertainty results as validation criteria, an analytically based uncertainty assessment system was developed.

Specifically, it was shown that SASW phase angle and inverse phase angle typically display a coefficient of variation (COV) of 2 %, and samples appear normally distributed. Further, SASW phase velocity data typically display a coefficient of variation (COV) of 2 %, and the COV for combined phase velocity data is typically 1.5 %. Both phase velocity and combined phase velocity samples appear normally distributed. In addition, it was found that by using a small sample of experimental data and the analytically based process developed in this study, measurement uncertainty of SASW phase angle and phase velocity could be assessed as part of routine testing.
Constraint Correction of Fracture Toughness CTOD for Fracture Performance Evaluation of Structural Components
Authors: Minami F , Arimochi K
Published: May 2004

A correction of CTOD for constraint loss in large-scale yielding conditions is made on the basis of the Weibull stress fracture criterion that eliminates an excessive conservatism in the conventional fracture assessment and material fracture toughness requirement. A CTOD ratio β = δ3P / δWP (<1) is proposed, where δWP is the CTOD of a wide plate component and δ3P is an equivalent CTOD of the fracture toughness specimen at which the toughness specimen gives a compatible Weibull stress with the wide plate. The CTOD ratio β is decreased to a large extent after full yielding of the wide plate component, which is more significant for a high yield ratio YR and a deep surface crack in the wide plate. The Weibull modulus m exerts a marginal influence on β. A case study is presented on the application of the CTOD ratio β to the fracture performance assessment of full-scale column-to-beam connections subjected to cyclic and dynamic loading.
Probabilistic Life Prediction Isn't as Easy as It Looks
Authors: Annis C
Published: May 2004

Many engineers effect “probabilistic life prediction” by replacing constants with probability distributions and carefully modeling the physical relationships among the parameters. Surprisingly, the statistical relationships among the “constants” are often given short shrift, if not ignored altogether. Few recognize that while this simple substitution of distributions for constants will indeed produce a nondeterministic result, the corresponding “probabilities” are often woefully inaccurate. In fact, even the “trend” can be wrong, so these results can't even be used for sensitivity studies. This paper explores the familiar Paris equation relating crack growth rate and applied stress intensity to illustrate many statistical realities that are often ignored by otherwise careful engineers. Although the examples are Monte Carlo, the lessons also apply to other methods of probabilistic life prediction, including FORM/SORM (First/Second Order Reliability Method) and related “fast probability integration” methods.
Scatter in Fatigue Crack Growth Rate in a Directionally Solidified Nickel-Base Superalloy
Authors: Highsmith S , Johnson WS
Published: May 2004

Directional solidification of nickel-base superalloy components for gas turbine rotor blades offers a significant improvement in creep strength while at the same time yielding an anisotropic, heterogeneous microstructure. In such a material, some of the continuum assumptions of linear elastic fracture mechanics begin to break down, and local (microscopic) conditions can lead to significant deviation in fatigue crack growth rate from the global (macroscopic) trend. Fatigue crack life prediction for a large population of fielded components requires a probabilistic treatment of the material fatigue crack growth behavior. A common approach to probabilistic fatigue crack life prediction involves sampling the Paris law coefficients from a large number of crack growth experiments, which can lead to effectively “smoothing” the local intraspecimen variability out of the model. The length scale of variability is discussed as it relates to material microstructure and crack life prediction. Results from fatigue crack growth experiments on a directionally solidified superalloy are presented and spatial variation in the fatigue crack growth rate is examined. Periodicity of the crack growth rate variation is compared with the scale of microstructural heterogeneity.
Predicting Fatigue Life Under Spectrum Loading in 2024-T3 Aluminum Using a Measured Initial Flaw Size Distribution
Authors: DeBartolo EA , Hillberry BM
Published: May 2004

Measured cracked particle distributions were used in conjunction with a closure-based life prediction package (FASTRAN 3.8 [1]) to predict fatigue life distributions under a spectrum load (FALSTAFF — Fighter Aircraft Loading STAndard For Fatigue [2]) in 2024-T3 aluminum. A single crack model was assumed and no threshold stress intensity factor was used. Simulations were done at maximum stress levels of 175, 205, and 275 MPa. The resulting fatigue life distributions were compared at different levels of probability of failure. At all levels, predicted fatigue lives were within a factor of two or better of experimental fatigue lives. This indicates both that the single-flaw model can be a reasonable approximation for life prediction and that it is not necessary to truncate initial flaw size distributions at some threshold level.
Investigation of the Behavior of Geosynthetic Clay Liners Subjected to Thermal Gradients in Basal Liner Applications
Authors: Southen JM , Rowe RK
Published: May 2004

Composite liners comprised of geomembranes and geosynthetic clay liners can be an effective means of minimizing fluid flow and associated groundwater contamination from municipal solid waste landfills. There remains uncertainty, however, regarding the long-term performance of such systems under conditions of elevated temperature that may occur at the base of landfills attributable to exothermic waste degradation processes. The heat generated by these processes may lead to the development of a thermal gradient through the lining system that creates a risk of desiccation within the uppermost portion of the subsoil and the geosynthetic clay liner itself. To investigate this issue, a series of small-scale laboratory experiments were developed in an effort to simulate the hydraulic and thermal conditions existing at the base of a landfill. This paper presents the results of investigations into the influence of various parameters on the behavior of a composite liner. The distribution of temperature and water content over time is discussed, as well as potential impacts on the performance of the geosynthetic clay liner.
Determining Residual Stress in Spherical Components: A New Application of the Hole-Drilling Method
Authors: Montay G , Cherouat A , Garnier C , Lu J
Published: May 2004

The semidestructive hole-drilling technique for measuring in-depth residual stress is well established for plane components. The strain-stress relationship requires calibration coefficients that can be determined either experimentally or numerically. Experimental determination of the calibration coefficient is very costly compared with numerical determination. Also, experimental determination cannot take into account the new stress distribution between two subsequent drillings. This is why the numerical solution was chosen to determine the calibration coefficients for spherical components in this study. We used the technique on a steering joint and compared the residual stress results obtained for a plane and a spherical structure. The error is discussed. This new development is also applicable on a hip prosthesis and other spherical shape components.
Testing and Comparison of Various Packages for Mango Distribution
Authors: Chonhenchob V , Singh SP
Published: May 2004

Various packages (corrugated box, plastic crate, and bamboo basket) used for mango distribution were evaluated for their protective performance. After subject to packaging and transportation, the quality of mangoes (bruise incidence, bruise volume, weight loss, firmness, color, ethylene production, and respiration rates) was determined. Different cushioning methods (foam net and paper wrap) were also evaluated for their effectiveness in protecting the fruits from mechanical damage during distribution. All types of cushioning materials tested reduced the amount of bruising. Corrugated box with foam net provided the best protection as compared to all other types of packaging tested. Mangoes packaged in bamboo baskets showed the highest mechanical damage and weight loss. Bruise volume during storage is highly correlated with bruise incidence after transportation and can be used to classify the market value of mangoes. Economic comparison of various packaging systems was also studied. The information from this study can be used for selecting proper packaging to reduce mechanical damage of mangoes and other sensitive tropical fruits during distribution.
Evaluation of the Uniaxiality of the Stress State in C-Ring Fracture Strength Specimens
Authors: Embree TL , Segall AE
Published: May 2004

To develop guidelines for using C-ring specimens for evaluating the fracture strength of ceramics in tubular form, a series of finite-element analysis (FEA) calculations was performed. These calculations focused on the ranges of specimen dimensions and loading distributions required to maintain a uniaxial stress state within the C-ring specimen under diametral loading. Results of the FEA calculations indicated that the degree of uniaxiality of the C-ring stress state could be described completely by a combination of the width-to-thickness ratio (b/t) and the inner radius-to-outer radius ratio (ri/ro). It was also found that a reasonably wide range of geometries can be used with accuracy to extract fracture strength design data, provided b/t does not get too large or ri/ro too low. Given the potential statistical distribution of flaws in most ceramics, there is also cause for concern when b/t → 0 or ri/ro → 1 as this implies a small sample of flaws in the critical tensile stress region. Calculations also indicated that the uniaxiality of the C-ring stress state followed the expected 1/v dependence so that the behaviors of different materials can be surmised easily from the current results calculated for v = 0.155. As expected, and in contrast to O-ring specimens, the loading distribution between the C-ring surface and platum do not seem to have any effect on the stress state.
Rescuing Transient Corticospinal Terminations and Promoting Growth with Corticospinal Stimulation in Kittens
Authors: Salimi Iran , Martin John H.
Published: May 2004

Development of corticospinal (CS) terminations is activity dependent. In the cat, activity-dependent refinement of termination topography occurs between weeks 3 and 6. Initially, sparse terminals are present in the gray matter bilaterally, including the motor nuclei. By week 6, virtually all motor nuclear terminations are eliminated, as are most ipsilateral terminations. In this study, we determined whether electrical stimulation of CS axons could be used to rescue transient terminations and promote their growth. We implanted microwires in the pyramid or spinal white matter to stimulate CS axons (2 hr/d, 330 Hz, 45 msec burst, 2 sec intervals) for 2-3 weeks during the refinement period. CS terminations were traced using wheat germ agglutinin conjugated to horseradish peroxidase. Animals were killed after week 6. Stimulation produced dense terminations bilaterally, including within the motor nuclei. Termination density was least in lamina 1 and ventral lamina 9. Reticular formation stimulation produced a control (i.e., nonstimulated) termination pattern. To determine whether CS stimulation affected development of the nonstimulated CS system, we traced terminations from the contralateral cortex using biotinylated dextran amine. Compared with controls or after reticular formation stimulation, there was a shift in the distribution of terminations of the nonstimulated side to more dorsal laminas, which is where the stimulated CS system had fewer terminals. This distribution shift is consistent with competition for termination space between the CS systems on both sides. Our findings indicate that activity can be harnessed to bias CS axon terminal development. This has important implications for using activity to modify motor system organization after perinatal CNS trauma.
Effects of theLurcherMutation on GluR1 Desensitization and Activation Kinetics
Authors: Klein Rebecca Meier , Howe James R.
Published: May 2004

Previous studies of thelurchermutation in GluR1 channels concluded that its main effect is to create constitutively active channels (Kohda et al., 2000; Taverna et al., 2000). GluR1Lc channels also exhibit slowed kinetics and a shift in their apparent affinity for glutamate (Kohda et al., 2000; Taverna et al., 2000). Here, we have undertaken a kinetic analysis of GluR1Lc channels to quantify the effects oflurcherand to determine the relative contribution of these effects to thelurcherphenotype. Analysis of GluR1Lc leak current demonstrated that the 2,3-dioxo-6-nitro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro[f]quinoxaline-7-sulfonamide (NBQX)-sensitive portion of the leak current corresponded to a current generated by glutamate concentrations similar to the levels of contaminating glutamate measured in our normal external solutions. This result, and the small size of the leak current relative to the currents evoked by saturating glutamate, indicates that GluR1Lc channels exhibit little or no constitutive activity. Our results indicate that the primary effect of thelurchermutation is to increase the affinity of GluR1 for glutamate and reduce the desensitization of GluR1 at nanomolar concentrations. We also found that the mutation makes both the rate and extent of GluR1Lc channel desensitization depend strongly on subunit occupancy. We conclude that the poor survival of GluR1Lc-transfected cells, and presumably cerebellar neurons inlurchermice, results because channels carrying thelurchermutation open and do not desensitize at ambient levels of glutamate.
Modulation of Ion Channels and Synaptic Transmission by a Human Sensory Neuron-Specific G-Protein-Coupled Receptor, SNSR4/mrgX1, Heterologously Expressed in Cultured Rat Neurons
Authors: Chen Huanmian , Ikeda Stephen R.
Published: May 2004

Human sensory neuron-specific G-protein-coupled receptors (SNSRs) are expressed solely in small diameter primary sensory neurons. This restricted expression pattern is of considerable therapeutic interest because small nociceptors transmit chronic pain messages. The neuronal function of human SNSRs is difficult to assess because rodent orthologs have yet to be clearly defined, and individual isoforms are found only in a small subset of primary sensory neurons. To circumvent this problem, we expressed human SNSR4 (hSNSR4; also known asHs.mrgX1) in rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG), dorsal root ganglion (DRG), and hippocampal neurons using nuclear injection or recombinant adenoviruses and examined modulation of ion channels and neurotransmission using whole-cell patch-clamp techniques. BAM8-22 (a 15 amino acid C-terminal fragment of bovine adrenal medulla peptide 22), a peptide agonist derived from proenkephalin, inhibited high (but not low) voltage-activated Ca2+current in both DRG and SCG neurons expressing hSNSR4, whereas no response was detected in control neurons. The Ca2+current inhibition was concentration dependent and partially sensitive toPertussistoxin (PTX) treatment. Additionally, the peptide was highly effective in modulating current arising from M-type K+channels in SCG neurons expressing hSNSR4. In hippocampal neurons expressing hSNSR4, BAM8-22 induced presynaptic inhibition of transmission that was abolished after PTX treatment. Our data indicate that hSNSR4, when heterologously expressed in rat neurons, can be activated by an opioid-related peptide, couples to Gq/11-proteins as well as PTX-sensitive Gi/o-proteins, and modulates neuronal Ca2+channels, K+channels, and synaptic transmission.
Partial Deletion of the cAMP Response Element-Binding Protein Gene Promotes Alcohol-Drinking Behaviors
Authors: Pandey Subhash C. , Roy Adip , Zhang Huaibo , Xu Tiejun
Published: May 2004

The cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) gene transcription factor has been shown to play a role in the synaptic plasticity associated with drug addictive behaviors; however, the causal role of the CREB gene in alcohol-drinking behaviors is unknown. The present investigation evaluated alcohol-drinking behaviors in mice that are haplodeficient in CREB as a result of targeted CREB (α and Δ) gene disruption. It was found that CREB-haplodeficient (+/-) mice have higher preference for ethanol but not for sucrose solution than wild-type (+/+) littermates. The functional aspects of the CREB gene transcription factor were also investigated by measuring the protein levels of phosphorylated CREB (p-CREB) and the expression of cAMP-inducible genes such as neuropeptide Y (NPY) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Deletion of the CREB (α and Δ) gene significantly decreases total CREB, p-CREB levels and the expression of NPY and BDNF in the brain structures of CREB-deficient (+/-) mice. It was also found that CREB-deficient (+/-) mice displayed more anxiety-like behaviors and that acute ethanol exposure produced anxiolytic effects and significantly increased protein levels of p-CREB and NPY in the central and medial but not in the basolateral amygdala of wild-type mice, but these effects are attenuated in CREB-deficient mice compared with wild-type mice. These results provide the first direct evidence that a haplodeficiency of the CREB gene is associated with increased alcohol-drinking behaviors. Furthermore, alcohol drinking and anxiety-like behaviors in CREB-haplodeficient mice may possibly be related to decreased expression of NPY and BDNF in the brains of these mice.
Chemometric Studies in the Lagoon of Venice, Italy. Annual Evolution of Sulphur Species and Relationship to Biogeochemical Cycles in Lagoon Water
Authors: Moret Ivo , Gambaro Andrea , Piazza Rossano , Corami Fabiana , Ravazzi Cesare , Andreoli Carlo , Truzzi Cristina , Lambertucci Luca , Scarponi Giuseppe
Published: May 2004

During the period March 1997 — March 1998 dimethyl sulphide (DMS), dimethylsulphoniopropionate (DMSP) and carbon disulphide (CS2) were determined weekly in the water of the Lagoon of Venice, Italy (at three stations located in the Giudecca Canal, the San Secondo Canal and the Rio di San Nicolò). At the same time, the following hydrological and biological variables were also measured: tide height, temperature, transmittance, fluorescence, pH, salinity, chlorinity, sulphate, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, phosphate, silicate, chlorophyll a, phaeopigments, phytoplankton (abundance and biomass). Principal component analysis (PCA), applied as a dimension reduction tool, made it possible to summarize multivariate information in a small number of components, which highlighted the relationships between the temporal evolutions of the sulphur compounds with hydrological and biological variables in the seasonal biogeochemical cycle of the lagoon. In particular the overall temporal cycle, which begins with the development of biological activity in late winter and spring, followed by the predominance of degradation processes during the late summer and the remineralization of nutrients in autumn, is clearly described in the plane of the first two principal components, together with the interrelationships between all the relevant variables.
Photocatalytic Mineralisation of Aniline Derivatives in Aquatic Systems Using Semiconductor Oxides
Authors: Habibi Mohammad Hossein , Khaledisardashti Mohammad , Montazerozohori Morteza
Published: May 2004

Photocatalytic degradation of aqueous solution of aniline derivatives such as ortho‐nitroaniline(ONA), meta‐nitroaniline(MNA), para‐nitroaniline(PNA), 4‐ bromoaniline(4‐BrA) and 2‐chloroaniline(2‐ClA) were carried out over ZnO or TiO2 (anatase and rutile) in a photocatalytic reactor. The observed results revealed that the order of photocatalytic activity for degradation of selected compound was ZnO > TiO2 (rutile) > TiO2 (anatase) with the ratio of the rate constants to the surface area of 3.2 × 10‐3, 1.9 × 10‐3 and 1.0 × 10‐3 respectively. The effect of some physical and chemical parameters such as amount of photocatalyst, pH, time of irradiation and solvent were studied. Degradation kinetic was according to Longmuir behaviour. Spectrophotometric methods and TOC analysis supported that aniline derivatives almost completely mineralized.
Differential Pulse Polarographic Determination of Lead in Standard Alloys and Biological Samples after Separation and Preconcentration with PAN
Authors: Taher Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2004

A highly selective, sensitive, rapid and economical differential pulse polarographic method has been developed for the determination of trace amount of lead in various samples after adsorption of its 1‐(2‐pyridylazo)‐2‐naphthol (PAN) on naphthalene in the pH range of 8.4 — 11.5. After filtration, the solid mass is shaken with 9.0 ml of 1 M hydrochloric acid and lead is determined by differential pulse polarography (DPP). Lead can alternatively be quantitatively adsorbed on [1‐(2‐pyridylazo)‐2‐naphthol]‐naphthalene adsorbent packed in a column and determined similarly. The detection limit is 0.1 μg/m1 (signal to noise ratio = 2) and the linearity is maintained in the concentration range 0.3 — 300 μg/m1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.9996 and relative standard deviation of ±1.1%. Characterization of the electroactive process included an examination of the degree of reversibility. Various parameters such as the effect of pH, volume of aqueous phase and interference of a number of metal ions on the determination of lead has been studied in detail to optimize the conditions for determination in alloys and biological samples.
Octadecyl Silica Membrane Disks Modified with a New Schiff's Base for the Preconcentration of Lead and Copper before Their Determination in Water Samples
Authors: Ganjali Mohammad Reza , Pourjavid Mohammad Reza , Hajiagha Babaei Leila , Salavati‐Niasari Masoud
Published: May 2004

A simple and fast method for the extraction and determination of ppt level of Pb2+ and Cu2+ ions using octadecyl‐bonded silica membrane disks modified by a new tetradentates Schiff's base [Bis(2, 4‐dimethoxy benzaldehyde) ethylen diimine](TDSB) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry is described. Extraction efficiency, and influence of flow rate, pH, type and the least amount of acid for stripping of Cu2+ and Pb2+ from the modified disks and break through volume were evaluated. The maximum capacity of the membrane disks modified by 5 mg of TDSB used was found to be 347±7 and 470±6 μg of copper and lead, respectively. The concentration factor is 500 (for 2500 mL water sample and flow rate of 20 mL min‐1) and detection limit of the proposed method is 12.5 and 150.5 pg/ml for Cu2+and Pb2+, respectively. The method was applied to the determination of Cu2+ and Pb2+ ions from various water, wastewater, black tea, and hot pepper samples.
Bindungsverhalten ausgewählter Elemente in Sedimenten eines sauren Tagebaurestsees/FNR>
Authors: Einax Jürgen W. , v. Tümpling Wolf , Zehl Katharina
Published: May 2004

Zur wirtschaftlichen Nutzung saurer Tagebaurestseen sind zur Erarbeitung von Sanierungskonzepten und zu deren Anwendung detaillierte Kenntnisse hinsichtlich Wasserkörper und Sediment notwendig. Die vorliegende Arbeit hat das Bindungsverhalten und die vertikale Verteilung von ausgewählten Elementen (Aluminium, Blei, Cobalt, Eisen, Kupfer, Mangan, Nickel, Zink) im Sediment des sauren Tagebaurestsees 111 (Niederlausitz) zum Gegenstand. Ziel der Untersuchungen war eine Schätzung des vom Sediment ausgehenden Gefährdungspotentials durch die ausgewählten Metalle.
Treatment of Malting Wastewater in a Granular Sludge Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR)
Authors: Schwarzenbeck Norbert , Erley Ron , Mc Swain Belinda S. , Wilderer Peter A. , Irvine Robert L.
Published: May 2004

Aerobic granular sludge was successfully cultivated in a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) treating wastewater from the malting process with a high content of particulate organic matter. At an organic loading rate of 3.2 kg/(m3 d) CODtotal and an influent particle concentration of 0.95 g/L MLSS an average removal of 50% in CODtotal and 80% in CODdissolved could be achieved. A comparison of granular and flocculent sludge grown under the same operating conditions showed no significant difference in removal efficiency although granules exhibited a higher metabolic activity in terms of specific oxygen uptake rate (rO2, X). Two distinct mechanisms of particle removal were observed for granular sludge: during initial granule formation, particles were incorporated into the biofilm matrix. For mature granules, a high level of protozoa growth on the granule surface accounted for the ability to remove particulate COD. Combined evaluation of the development in MLSS content and sludge bed settling rate (i.e., mean derivative of the normalized sludge volume) was found to be an adequate method for monitoring the characteristic settling properties of a granulizing sludge bed. By means of this method, a distinct substrate gradient out of several operating conditions was concluded to have the biggest impact on the formation of aerobic granular sludge.
Membrane Ozonation in Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Janknecht Peter , Picard Céline , Larbot André , Wilderer Peter A.
Published: May 2004

The utilization of porous membranes in mass transfer processes of gaseous ozone to water was investigated. With this approach a direct control of the interface between gas and liquid is possible. Furthermore it prevents foam formation in the presence of surfactant pollution, which constitutes a problem in conventional ozonation methods. Different organic and inorganic membrane materials and geometrical arrangements were utilized and ozone transfer under varied experimental conditions was determined. Typical transfer rates obtained in the experiments were 10 g ozone per membrane square meter and hour, but under optimized conditions higher values were possible. A theoretical model was successfully applied to the results obtained. A peculiarity of the method is its inherent ozone dose control in relation to the volume flow of water.
The influence of time after stroke on brain activations during a motor task
Authors: Ward Nick S. , Brown Martin M. , Thompson Alan J. , Frackowiak Richard S. J.
Published: May 2004

After stroke, the pattern of brain activation during performance of a motor task is related to outcome. Here, we compare this relationship in the early (10–14 days) and late (at least 3 months) phases after first‐ever stroke. A negative linear relationship between task‐related brain activation, as measured by functional magnetic resonance imaging, and outcome is seen in several identical primary and nonprimary motor regions that is independent of time after stroke. In other words, patients with poorer outcome scores recruit more widely within motor‐related regions in both the early or late poststroke phase. However, in contralesional middle intraparietal sulcus, contralesional cerebellum, and ipsilesional rostral premotor cortex, this relationship is seen only in the early poststroke phase. Thus, patients with poorer outcome scores recruit these areas in only the early and not the late poststroke phase. These results suggest that there are differences in the cerebral implementation of action in patients with poor outcome that are dependent on the time since stroke. Thus, in those patients with the most to gain from rehabilitation, different therapeutic approaches may be required at different stages after stroke.
Functional brain changes in presymptomatic Huntington's disease
Authors: Reading Sarah A. J. , Dziorny Adam C. , Peroutka Laura A. , Schreiber Mathew , Gourley Lisa M. , Yallapragada Venu , Rosenblatt Adam , Margolis Russell L. , Pekar James J. , Pearlson Godfrey D. , Aylward Elizabeth , Brandt Jason , Bassett Susan S. , Ross Christopher A.
Published: May 2004

Evidence suggests early structural brain changes in individuals with the Huntington's disease (HD) genetic mutation who are presymptomatic for the movement symptoms of the illness. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of functional brain changes in this same population using functional magnetic resonance imaging. Subjects and matched controls underwent an functional magnetic resonance imaging “interference” protocol, a task known to be mediated in part by corticostriatal circuitry. In the setting of normal cognitive performance, presymptomatic HD subjects had significantly and specifically less activation in the left anterior cingulate cortex (BA 24, 32) compared with matched controls. Ann Neurol 2004;55:879–883
The 14q restless legs syndrome locus in the French Canadian population
Authors: Levchenko Anastasia , Montplaisir Jacques‐Yves , Dubé Marie‐Pierre , Riviere Jean‐Baptiste , St‐Onge Judith , Turecki Gustavo , Xiong Lan , Thibodeau Pascale , Desautels Alex , Verlaan Dominique J. , Rouleau Guy A.
Published: May 2004

A new restless legs syndrome locus on chromosome 14 recently has been reported in one family of Italian origin. Our study aimed to replicate this finding and determine the importance of this locus in the French Canadian population. Markers spanning the region were genotyped in 14 large families and linkage assessed using two‐point and multipoint logarithm of odds scores. Possible linkage to this locus was found in one of our kindreds providing support for the existence of this locus and indicating that this locus may be responsible for a small fraction of French Canadian restless legs syndrome. Ann Neurol 2004;55:887–891
RNAinterferenz: Gen, sei still!
Authors: Kuhlmann Markus , Nellen Wolfgang
Published: May 2004

„RNA Interferenz”︁ steht seit 1998 für einen völlig neuen Mechanismus des „Gene Silencing”︁, in dem mRNAs über einen komplexen Mechanismus mit Hilfe doppelsträngiger RNA degradiert werden. Das schnell wachsende Verständnis für diese molekulare Maschinerie hat zusätzlich zu überraschenden Erkenntnissen über Virusabwehr, Chromatinorganisation und eine Klasse neuer Regulatoren, den miRNAs, geführt. RNAi ist zu einem unverzichtbaren Werkzeug der Grundlagenforschung geworden. Medizinische Applikationen werden vorbereitet.
Das kreative Uhrwerksuniversum : Experiment zum Nachmachen und Nachdenken
Authors: Euler Manfred
Published: May 2004

Es werden Experimente vorgestellt, die Phänomene der Selbstorganisation bei gekoppelten Metronomen untersuchen. Bei geeigneter Wechselwirkung sind diese mechanischen Uhren in der Lage, ihre Schwingungen zu synchronisieren und kohärentes Verhalten zu entwickeln. Der Vorgang der Synchronisation wird qualitativ im Waschbrettmodell diskutiert. Die Modellexperimente vermitteln Einsichten in die allgegenwärtige Rolle von Synchronisationsprozessen in der Biologie, insbesondere im Bereich der sensorischen Verarbeitung und bei kognitiven Prozessen.
Auxin schafft Ordnung im Blätterwald
Authors: Brennicke Axel
Published: May 2004

Schönheit in der Natur ist oft eine unverhoffte Symmetrie im Chaos des Lebendigen. Bei Pflanzen bestechen die Widersprüche zwischen den individuell so unterschiedlichen Blättern und ihren regelmäßigen Anordnungen. Diese symmetrischen Folgen von Blattanlagen, Blüten oder Samen beruhen auf der kontrollierten Verteilung des Wachstumshormons Auxin. Junge Blätter in den wachsenden Pflanzenteilen leiten das Hormon um, so dass erst in einem bestimmten Abstand das nächste Blatt entsteht.
Peptid‐Aptamere: Molekulare Werkzeuge gegen Krebs?
Authors: Nagel‐Wolfrum Kerstin
Published: May 2004

Trotz des Fortschritts in der Tumortherapie stellt Krebs nach Erkrankungen des Herz‐Kreislaufsystems in Deutschland die zweithäufigste Todesursache dar. Auf der Suche nach neuen therapeutischen Ansatzpunkten haben Forscher ein Peptid gefunden, das einen für Tumorzellen essenziellen Signalweg blockiert und in den Tumorzellen den programmierten Zelltod auslöst. Dieses Peptid unterscheidet sich in seinem Wirkmechanismus gänzlich von anderen Krebsmedikamenten: Es inhibiert nicht die katalytische Funktion von enzymatisch aktiven Molekülen, sondern blockiert einen entscheidendenTranskriptionsfaktor.
Anatomy and blood supply of the subgaleal fascia flap
Authors: Casoli Vincent , Dauphin Nicolas , Taki Christina , Pelissier Philippe , Boudard Philippe , Caix Philippe , Delmas Vincent
Published: May 2004

The subgaleal fascia (SGF) is a distinct layer in the temporal fossa situated between the superficial fascia and galea aponeurotica and the temporal fascia covering the superficial surface of the temporal muscle. The SGF is used most frequently for otologic reconstruction. Reviewing the literature, however, showed many contradictory findings about dissection of an independent SGF layer, its blood supply, and the possibility of harvesting it as part of a combined flap. Our study, carried out on ten fresh cadavers, presents a detailed view of the blood supply of the SGF to develop a safe method of harvesting an inferior‐based SGF. Our systematic plane‐by‐plane approach, associated with a transparent grid applied on each dissection, allowed us to quantify the branches from each plane and to localize precisely their entering sites from a reference “zygomatic point.” The SGF had no ascending axial vascular supply entering from its base; according to our results, therefore, the SGF could not be harvested alone as an inferior pedicled flap down to the zygomatic arch. It may be feasible, however, to harvest a SGF flap when a strip of the superficial fascia is associated with its middle third. Therefore, we suggest that an average height of 5.4 cm of superficial fascia should be included in an inferior‐based pedicle of a SGF. Clin. Anat. 17:392–399, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.