bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuum field model of defect formation in carbon nanotubes
Authors: Li Zhiling , Dharap Prasad , Sharma Pradeep , Nagarajaiah Satish , Yakobson Boris I.
Published: March 2005

While considerable efforts in the form of (numerical) atomistic simulations have been expended to understand the mechanics of defect formation under applied strain, analogous analytical efforts have been rather few. In this work, based on the physics at the nanoscale, defect nucleation in single-walled carbon nanotubes is studied using both classical continuum field theory as well as gauge field theory of defects. Despite the inherent continuum assumption in our models, reasonably close qualitative and quantitative agreement with existing atomistic simulations is obtained. The latter lends credence to the belief that continuum formulations, with correct incorporation of the relevant physics, can be a powerful and yet simple tool for exploring nanoscale phenomena in carbon nanotubes. The results are more sensitive to chirality than to the size of the nanotubes.
Stress in sputter-deposited Cr films: Influence of Ar pressure
Authors: Grachev S. Yu. , Tichelaar F. D. , Janssen G.C.A.M.
Published: March 2005

We studied the tensile stress and grain-width evolution in sputter-deposited Cr films with thickness from 20nm to 2.7μm. Films were deposited in an industrial Hauzer 750 physical vapor deposition machine at 50–80°C. The films exhibited a columnar microstructure. A power law behavior of the tensile stress as well as of the average grain width with thickness was observed. Both power exponents were strongly dependent on the Ar pressure during deposition. The power exponent α for stress varied from 0.26 to 0.79 for the range of Ar pressures used (5×10−3–2×10−2mbar). The mechanism of tensile stress generation is the shrinkage of the grain boundaries. Assuming the same shrinkage of the grain boundaries all through the layer, the stress and the grain width would be inversely proportional. Indeed, the grain width followed the same power law as the stress at low Ar pressure [α=0.3(1)], but not at high Ar pressure [α=0.58(3)]. Transmission electron microscopy showed the formation of numerous voids. At higher Ar pressure the void fraction is significantly higher than at low pressure, thereby diminishing stress generation.
Potential-energy surface, dynamics of van der Waals motions, and vibronic transitions in p-difluorobenzene-argon complex
Authors: Makarewicz Jan
Published: March 2005

The dynamics of van der Waals vibrational motions and vibronic spectrum of the complex of argon with p-difluorobenzene (ArDFB) are investigated using the ab initio method. The electronic ground-state potential-energy surface of the complex is calculated at the second-order Møller–Plesset level of theory using a well-balanced basis set aug-cc-pVDZ and its reduced version without tight polarization functions. The dissociation energy of 351cm−1 and the binding energy of 402cm−1 determined at the Ar distance of 3.521Å from the DFB ring well agree with the experimental data available. The character of calculated vibrational levels is analyzed and the effect of a strong coupling between the stretching and bending motions is investigated. A new class of hybrid states created by this coupling is found. To investigate the vibronic S1-S0 spectrum, the surfaces of the electronic transition dipole moment are calculated using the ab initio method. From these surfaces, the vibronic transition intensities are determined and employed to assign the Franck–Condon- and Herzberg–Teller-induced transitions.
Semiconductive metal oxide ferroelectric memory transistor: A long-retention nonvolatile memory transistor
Authors: Li Tingkai , Hsu Sheng Teng , Ulrich Bruce D. , Evans David R.
Published: March 2005

The retention problem is a technical challenge for one-transistor (1T) ferroelectric memory devices. Three possible mechanisms are responsible for the poor retention of one-transistor ferroelectric memories: namely, charges trapping within the gate oxide and ferroelectric film, floating gate effect, and the depolarization field. In order to overcome these problems, a novel ferroelectric transistor design using a semiconductive oxide film in place of the gate dielectric has been fabricated. There is no insulator, other than the ferroelectric thin film in the gate stack; therefore, there is a very low depolarization field. The bottom gate of the ferroelectric capacitor is electrically connected to the silicon substrate through the semiconductive metal oxide resulting in the improvement of the memory retention characteristics.
Formulas for periodic dislocations in general interfaces
Authors: Zhang W.-Z.
Published: March 2005

The present work has advanced the calculation method for determining the configuration of periodic dislocations in general interfaces, especially for three sets of dislocations that are usually unsolvable by other methods. In terms of a newly introduced reciprocal Burgers vector (bi*), the configuration and the Burgers vector of the interfacial dislocations are related by a simple expression with general validity. Existing formulas for spacing of the dislocations in various special interfaces can be integrated in a concise form of D=1∕∣Δbi*∣.
Application of the thermionic field emission model in the study of a Schottky barrier of Ni on p-GaN from current–voltage measurements
Authors: Lin Yow-Jon
Published: March 2005

Barrier height values of Ni contacts to Mg-doped p-type GaN (p-GaN) were obtained from current–voltage measurements in this study. The induced deep level defect band through high Mg doping led to a reduction of the depletion layer width in the p-GaN near the interface and an increase in the probability of thermionic field emission. It also resulted in an increase in current flow under forward bias condition, which was not analyzed using the thermionic emission model. Further, the calculated barrier height value of Ni contacts to p-GaN using the thermionic field emission model is in good agreement with the value of 1.9eV obtained from x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements.
Photoinduced phase transition in an iron(II) spin-crossover complex with a N3O2 macrocyclic ligand
Authors: Liu Hongwu , Fujishima Akira , Sato Osamu
Published: March 2005

We report a high-efficiency photoinduced phase transition in a spin-crossover complex [FeL(CN)2]∙H2O (where L is a N3O2 Schiff-base macrocyclic ligand). A single-shot laser pulse (8ns duration) is applied to induce the phase transformation, exhibiting molecular-structural, chromatic, and magnetic changes inside a thermal hysteresis loop (216K). The condensation of long lifetime photoexcited high-spin sites accounts for the cooperative photoexcitation process.
Quantum mechanical reaction rate constants by vibrational configuration interaction: The OH + H2→H2O + H reaction as a function of temperature
Authors: Chakraborty Arindam , Truhlar Donald G.
Published: March 2005

The thermal rate constant of the 3D OH + H2→H2O + H reaction was computed by using the flux autocorrelation function, with a time-independent square-integrable basis set. Two modes that actively participate in bond making and bond breaking were treated by using 2D distributed Gaussian functions, and the remaining (nonreactive) modes were treated by using harmonic oscillator functions. The finite-basis eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian were obtained by solving the resulting generalized eigenvalue equation, and the flux autocorrelation function for a dividing surface optimized in reduced-dimensionality calculations was represented in the basis formed by the eigenvectors of the Hamiltonian. The rate constant was obtained by integrating the flux autocorrelation function. The choice of the final time to which the integration is carried was determined by a plateau criterion. The potential energy surface was from Wu, Schatz, Lendvay, Fang, and Harding (WSLFH). We also studied the collinear H + H2reaction by using the Liu–Siegbahn–Truhlar–Horowitz (LSTH) potential energy surface. The calculated thermal rate constant results were compared with reported values on the same surfaces. The success of these calculations demonstrates that time-independent vibrational configuration interaction can be a very convenient way to calculate converged quantum mechanical rate constants, and it opens the possibility of calculating converged rate constants for much larger reactions than have been treated until now.
Reinforcement of rat hippocampal LTP by holeboard training
Authors: Uzakov Shukhrat , Frey Julietta U. , Korz Volker
Published: March 2005

Hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) can be dissociated in early-LTP
lasting 4–5 h and late-LTP with a duration of more than 8 h, the latter
of which requires protein synthesis and heterosynaptic activity during its
induction. Previous studies in vivo have shown that early-LTP in the dentate
gyrus can protein synthesis-dependently be transformed (reinforced) into
late-LTP by the association of arousing novel environmental stimuli. Here we
show that consolidation of spatial memory also reinforces early-LTP in the
dentate gyrus. Both memory consolidation and LTP-reinforcement depend on
protein synthesis. Four groups of animals were trained by five, seven, eight
or 10 trials, respectively, to recognize a fixed pattern of baited holes. The
last trial was performed 15 min after tetanus. Errors of long-term reference
memory during the last trial were significantly decreased only in the eight-
and 10-trial experimental groups compared to pseudo-trained animals. In
correlation to this learning effect we found a reinforcement of early-LTP only
in these experimental groups compared to controls. The data suggest that the
synthesis of new proteins required for spatial reference-memory formation also
contributes to LTP maintenance in the hippocampal dentate gyrus.
Resource dynamics and detritivore production in an acid stream
Authors: PRETTY JAMES L. , GIBERSON DONNA J. , DOBSON MICHAEL
Published: March 2005

1. Life history patterns and production of eight shredder‐detritivore species were studied in relation to the detritus dynamics of a small acidic stream in England. Mean annual detritus inputs (direct and lateral sources combined) were approximately 400 g m−2 year−1 and showed significant seasonal and annual variation.

2. Detritus standing stock did not increase significantly during times of high input, reflecting low retention efficiency. However, the mean detritus standing stock was relatively large (108 g m−2) reflecting a slow decomposition rate typical of acid streams.

3. Four species were univoltine with highly synchronous patterns of emergence and recruitment (Leuctra inermis, Leuctra hippopus, Capnia vidua and Amphinemura sulcicollis). Two species were univoltine with extended patterns of emergence and recruitment (Nemoura cinerea, Potamophylax cingulatus). Leuctra nigra was apparently semivoltine, while Protonemura meyeri showed two successive cohorts in the second year of the study, suggesting either bivoltinism or cohort splitting.

3. Secondary production of the dominant shredders was 1.67 g m−2 year−1 in 1997 and 1.99 g m−2 year−1 in 1998, which is low compared with other small European streams. This was probably because of an impoverished invertebrate community and poor food quality associated with acid conditions. Food availability probably did not account for the low production as the detritus standing stock far exceeded the estimated shredder ingestion of 42–50 g m−2 year−1.

4. Despite low overall shredder production, species‐specific production was high, possibly because of competitive release in this species‐poor acid stream. Periods of high production and growth showed no relationship with detritus availability but were closely related to life history.
Phytoplankton pigments and community composition in Lake Tanganyika
Authors: DESCY J.‐P. , HARDY M.‐A. , STÉNUITE S. , PIRLOT S. , LEPORCQ B. , KIMIREI I. , SEKADENDE B. , MWAITEGA S. R. , SINYENZA D.
Published: March 2005

1. A 2‐year (2002–2003) survey of chlorophyll and carotenoid pigments is reported for two off‐shore stations of Lake Tanganyika, Kigoma (Tanzania) and Mpulungu (Zambia), and from three cruises between those sites. Chlorophyllaconcentrations were low (0.3–3.4 mg m−3) and average chlorophyllaintegrated through the 100 m water column were similar for both stations and years (36.4–41.3 mg m−2). Most pigments were located in the 0–60 m layer and decreased sharply downward. Chlorophylladegradation products (phaeophytins and phaeophorbides) were detected at 100 m depth, whereas carotenoids became undetectable. Temporal and seasonal variation of the vertical distribution of pigments was high.

2. The biomass of phytoplankton groups was calculated from marker pigment concentrations over the 0–100 m water column using the CHEMTAX software. On average for the study period, chlorophytes dominated in the northern station, followed by cyanobacteria T1 (type 1, orSynechococcuspigment type), whereas cyanobacteria T1 dominated in the south. Cyanobacteria T2 (type 2, containing echinenone), presumably corresponding to filamentous taxa, were detected in the rainy season. Diatoms (and chrysophytes) developed better in the dry season conditions, with a deep mixed layer and increased nutrient availability. Very large variation in the vertical distribution of algal groups was observed.

3. Our observations on phytoplankton composition are broadly consistent with those from previous studies. Our pigment data provide evidence for the lake‐wide importance of picocyanobacteria and high interannual variation and spatial heterogeneity of phytoplankton in Lake Tanganyika, which may render difficult assessment of long‐term changes in phytoplankton driven by climate change.
Garrè's osteomyelitis managed by root canal treatment of a mandibular second molar: incorporation of computed tomography with 3D reconstruction in the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease
Authors: Ebihara A. , Yoshioka T. , Suda H.
Published: March 2005

Aim  To report the healing of Garrè's osteomyelitis involving a mandibular second molar following root canal treatment.

Summary  To describe the endodontic management of Garrè's osteomyelitis involving a mandibular second molar. In this case, computed tomography (CT) was used to evaluate the status of the periapical lesion. Five years after root canal treatment, the tooth and supporting tissues appeared healthy both clinically and radiographically and were functioning well.

Key learning points

•Garrè's osteomyelitis of an adult can be managed by root canal treatment.

•Computed tomography could be used for diagnosis and treatment planning in endodontics.
Organizing and delivering training for acute mental health services: a discussion paper
Authors: BEE P. E. , BAKER J. A. , RICHARDS D. A. , LOFTUS S. J. , BAILEY L. , LOVELL K. , WOODS P. , COX D.
Published: March 2005

Recent policy statements that address the quality of care provided by acute mental health services have highlighted an urgent need for specialist nurse education and training. However, examples of how to design and implement such training initiatives are sparse. Drawing on recent experience of developing an innovative training programme for acute psychiatric settings, this paper seeks to examine some of the key issues associated with current training provision for acute inpatient mental health workers. The methodological and practical concerns surrounding this type of initiative are discussed with the main aspects of programme content, service user participation, team training and organizational challenges being explored. Resulting from this work, several recommendations regarding the content, organization and delivery of future training initiatives are made.
Emotional labour and stress within mental health nursing
Authors: MANN S. , COWBURN J.
Published: March 2005

For many within the nursing profession, the work role involves a great deal of emotional work or ‘emotional labour’. Such emotional work can be performed through ‘surface acting’ in which the individual simply feigns an appropriate emotion, or through ‘deep acting’ in which they actually try to feel the required emotion. The current study aims to aid understanding of the complex relationship between components of emotional labour and stress within the mental health nursing sector. Thirty‐five mental health nurses completed questionnaires relating to a total of 122 nurse–patient interactions. Data were collected in relation to: (1) the duration and intensity of the interaction; (2) the variety of emotions expressed; (3) the degree of surface or deep acting the nurse performed; and (4) the perceived level of stress the interaction involved. Nurses also completed Daily Stress Indicators. Results suggest that: (1) emotional labour is positively correlated with both ‘interaction stress’ and daily stress levels; (2) the deeper the intensity of interactions and the more variety of emotions experienced, the more emotional labour was reported; and (3) surface acting was a more important predictor of emotional labour than deep acting. Implications for mental health nurses are outlined.
World Health Organization collaborative study to establish a replacement WHO international standard for hepatitis C virus RNA nucleic acid amplification technology assays
Authors: Saldanha J. , Heath A. , Aberham C. , Albrecht J. , Gentili G. , Gessner M. , Pisani G.
Published: March 2005

Background and Objectives  A collaborative study was undertaken to establish a replacement for the current (1st) World Health Organization (WHO) hepatitis C virus (HCV) International Standard, 96/790.

Materials and Methods  Both the 1st International Standard and the replacement standard were prepared from the same starting material by diluting a high titre genotype 1a HCV isolate in pooled, human plasma. The only difference was that each standard was lyophilized in two, separate lyophilisation runs but under the same conditions.

Results  In the study to establish the 1st International Standard, no significant difference in potency was found between the material eventually designated as the 1st International Standard and that now selected as the 2nd International Standard. The present study also showed no significant differences between the materials stored at −20 °C and no evidence of degradation over 5 years.

Conclusions  Material 96/798 was established as the 2nd HCV International Standard and assigned the same unitage as the 1st International Standard, i.e. 105 IU/ml (50 000 IU/vial).
Pre‐pregnancy weight and the risk of stillbirth and neonatal death
Authors: Kristensen Janni , Vestergaard Mogens , Wisborg Kirsten , Kesmodel Ulrik , Secher Niels Jørgen
Published: March 2005

Objective  To evaluate the association between maternal pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and the risk of stillbirth and neonatal death and to study the causes of death among the children.

Design  Cohort study of pregnant women receiving routine antenatal care in Aarhus, Denmark.

Setting  Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark, 1989–1996.

Population  A total of 24,505 singleton pregnancies (112 stillbirths, 75 neonatal deaths) were included in the analyses.

Methods  Information on maternal pre‐pregnancy weight, height, lifestyle factors and obstetric risk factors were obtained from self‐administered questionnaires and hospital files. We classified the population according to pre‐pregnancy BMI as underweight (BMI <18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2) and obese (BMI 30.0 kg/m2 or more).

Main outcome measures  Stillbirth and neonatal death and causes of death.

Results  Maternal obesity was associated with a more than doubled risk of stillbirth (odds ratio = 2.8, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5–5.3) and neonatal death (odds ratio = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.2–5.8) compared with women of normal weight. No statistically significantly increased risk of stillbirth or neonatal death was found among underweight or overweight women. Adjustment for maternal cigarette smoking, alcohol and caffeine intake, maternal age, height, parity, gender of the child, years of schooling, working status and cohabitation with partner did not change the conclusions, nor did exclusion of women with hypertensive disorders or diabetes mellitus. No single cause of death explained the higher mortality in children of obese women, but more stillbirths were caused by unexplained intrauterine death and fetoplacental dysfunction among obese women compared with normal weight women.

Conclusion  Maternal obesity more than doubled the risk of stillbirth and neonatal death in our study. The present and other studies linking maternal obesity to an increased risk of severe adverse pregnancy outcomes emphasise the need for public interventions to prevent obesity in young women.
A C‐terminal skeletal muscle sodium channel mutation associated with myotonia disrupts fast inactivation
Authors: Wu Fen‐fen , Gordon Erynn , Hoffman Eric P. , Cannon Stephen C.
Published: March 2005

Missense mutations in the skeletal muscle sodium channel α‐subunit gene (SCN4A) are associated with a group of clinically overlapping diseases caused by alterations in the excitability of the sarcolemma. Sodium channel defects may increase excitability and cause myotonic stiffness or may render fibres transiently inexcitable to produce periodic paralysis. A patient with cold‐aggravated myotonia did not harbour any of the common SCN4A mutations. We therefore screened all 24 exons by denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography, followed by direct sequencing. Two novel missense changes were found with predicted amino acid substitutions: T323M in the DIS5‐S6 loop and F1705I in the intracellular C‐terminus. The functional impact of these substitutions was assessed by recording whole‐cell Na+ currents from transiently transfected HEK293 cells. T323M currents were indistinguishable from wild‐type (WT). Fast inactivation was impaired for F1705I channels, as demonstrated by an 8.6‐mV rightwards shift in voltage dependence and a two‐fold slowing in the rate of inactivation. Recovery from fast inactivation was not altered, nor was there an increase in the persistent current after a 50‐ ms depolarization. Activation and slow inactivation were not appreciably affected. These data suggest that T323M is a benign polymorphism, whereas F1705I results in fast inactivation defects, which are often observed for myotonia. This is the first example of a C‐terminal mutation in SCN4A associated with human disease. Like the cardiac disorders (long QT syndrome type 3 or Brugada syndrome) and generalized epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+) associated with C‐terminal mutations in other NaV channels, the primary effect of F1705I was a partial disruption of fast inactivation.
Sustained rise in triacylglycerol synthesis and increased epididymal fat mass when rats cease voluntary wheel running
Authors: Kump David S. , Booth Frank W.
Published: March 2005

Four‐week‐old, Fischer–Brown Norway F1‐generation male rats were given access to voluntary running wheels for 21 days, and then the wheels were locked for 5 (WL5), 10 (WL10), 29 (WL29), or 53 (WL53) hours. Two other groups (SED5 and SED10) had no access to voluntary running wheels and were killed at the same time as WL5 and WL10, respectively. Absolute and relative epididymal fat mass, mean cell volume, and amount of lipid per cell increased in WL53 relative to all other groups, with no change in cell number. C/EBPα protein levels in epididymal fat were 30% greater in SED5 than in WL5. The rate of triacylglycerol synthesis in epididymal fat was 4.2‐fold greater in SED5 than in WL5, increased 14‐fold between WLS and WL10, and was 79% lower in SED10 than in WL10. Triacylglycerol synthesis remained at this elevated level (at least 3.5‐fold greater than SED5) through WL53. Thus, the rapid increase in epididymal fat mass with the cessation of voluntary wheel running is associated with a prolonged overshoot in epididymal fat triacylglycerol synthesis. Moreover, rats without running wheels had a 9.4% lower body mass after 21 days than those with running wheels. The individual mass of seven different muscles from the hindlimb, upper forelimb, and back were each lower in animals without running wheels, suggesting that physical activity in rapidly growing rats may be requisite for optimal muscle development.
Uterine blood flow responses to ICI 182 780 in ovariectomized oestradiol‐17β‐treated, intact follicular and pregnant sheep
Authors: Magness Ronald R. , Phernetton Terrance M. , Gibson Tiffini C. , Chen Dong‐bao
Published: March 2005

Oestrogen dramatically increases uterine blood flow (UBF) in ovariectomized (Ovx) ewes. Both the follicular phase and pregnancy are normal physiological states with elevated levels of circulating oestrogen. ICI 182 780 is a pure steroidal oestrogen receptor (ER) antagonist that blocks oestrogenic actions in oestrogen‐responsive tissue. We hypothesized that an ER‐mediated mechanism is responsible for in vivo rises in UBF in physiological states of high oestrogen. The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of an ER antagonist on exogenous and endogenous oestradiol‐17β (E2β)‐mediated elevations in UBF. Sheep were surgically instrumented with bilateral uterine artery blood flow transducers, and uterine and femoral artery catheters. Ovx animals (n= 8) were infused with vehicle (35% ethanol) or ICI 182 780 (0.1–3.0 μg min−1) into one uterine artery for 10 min before and 50 min after E2β was given (1 μg kg−1i.v. bolus) and UBF was recorded for an additional hour. Intact, cycling sheep were synchronized to the follicular phase using progesterone, prostaglandin F2α(PGF2α) and pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG). When peri‐ovulatory rises in UBF reached near peak levels, ICI 182 780 (1 or 2 μg (ml uterine blood flow)−1) was infused unilaterally (n= 4 sheep). Ewes in the last stages of pregnancy (late pregnant ewes) were also given ICI 182 780 (0.23–2.0 μg (ml uterine blood flow)−1; 60 min infusion) into one uterine artery (n= 8 sheep). In Ovx sheep, local infusion of ICI 182 780 did not alter systemic cardiovascular parameters, such as mean arterial blood pressure or heart rate; however, it maximally decreased ipsilateral, but not contralateral, UBF vasodilatory responses to exogenous E2β by ∼55–60% (P < 0.01). In two models of elevated endogenous E2β, local ICI 182 780 infusion inhibited the elevated UBF seen in follicular phase and late pregnant ewes in a time‐dependent manner by ∼60% and 37%, respectively; ipsilateral ≫ contralateral effects (P < 0.01). In late pregnant sheep ICI 182 780 also mildly and acutely (for 5–30 min) elevated mean arterial pressure and heart rate (P < 0.05). We conclude that exogenous E2β‐induced increases in UBF in the Ovx animal and endogenous E2β‐mediated elevations of UBF during the follicular phase and late pregnancy are partially mediated by ER‐dependent mechanisms.
RISK, SECURITY, AND DISASTER MANAGEMENT
Authors: Comfort Louise K.
Published: March 2005

▪ Abstract  This review examines the policies and practices that address the evolving conditions of risk, security, and disaster management in U.S. society. Although each condition presents particular challenges to public agencies and the communities they serve, all represent varying states of uncertainty and require different approaches for informed action. This analysis reframes the issue of managing risk by focusing on the distinction between policies and practices developed in reference to natural and technological hazards and those developed to enhance security from hostile acts. The author concludes that building networks of organizations committed to a process of continual inquiry, informed action, and adaptive learning is a more flexible, robust strategy than the standard practice of establishing greater control over possible threats through administrative structures. Supported by methods of network analysis, computational simulation, information infrastructure, and long-term policy goals, networked strategies offer an important alternative to hierarchical structures that prove vulnerable in uncertain environments.
Effects of drink volume and glucose load on gastric emptying and postprandial blood pressure in healthy older subjects
Authors: Jones Karen L. , O’Donovan Deirdre , Russo Antonietta , Meyer James H. , Stevens Julie E. , Lei Yong , Keogh Jennifer , Tonkin Anne , Horowitz Michael
Published: March 2005

Postprandial hypotension (PPH) occurs frequently in the elderly; the magnitude of the fall in blood pressure (BP) is related to the rate of glucose entry into the duodenum during intraduodenal glucose infusion and spontaneous gastric emptying (GE). It is unclear if glucose concentration affects the hypotensive response. Gastric distension may attenuate PPH; therefore, meal volume could influence the BP response. We aimed to determine the effects of 1) drink volume, 2) glucose concentration, and 3) glucose content on the BP and heart rate (HR) responses to oral glucose. Ten subjects (73.9 ± 1.2 yr) had measurements of BP, GE, and blood glucose on 4 days after 1) 25 g glucose in 200 ml (12.5%), 2) 75 g glucose in 200 ml (37.5%), 3) 25 g glucose in 600 ml (4%), and 4) 75 g glucose in 600 ml (12.5%). GE, BP, HR, and blood glucose were measured for 180 min. After all drinks, duodenal glucose loads were similar in the first 60 min. Regardless of concentration, 600-ml (but not 200-ml) drinks initially increased BP, and in the first 30 min, systolic BP correlated ( P < 0.01) with volume in both the proximal and total stomach. At the same concentration (12.5%), systolic BP fell more ( P = 0.02) at the smaller volume; at the same volumes, there were no effects of concentration on BP. There was no difference in the glycemic response to drinks of identical glucose content. We conclude that 1) ingestion of glucose at a higher volume attenuates and 2) under constant duodenal load, glucose concentration (4–37%) does not affect the fall in BP.
Surfactant disaturated phosphatidylcholine kinetics in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia measured with stable isotopes and a two-compartment model
Authors: Cogo Paola E. , Toffolo Gianna Maria , Gucciardi Antonina , Benetazzo Arianna , Cobelli Claudio , Carnielli Virgilio P.
Published: March 2005

We previously found a shorter surfactant disaturated phosphatidylcholine palmitate (DSPC-PA) half-life in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) by using a single stable isotope tracer and simple formulas based on a one-exponential fit of the final portion of the enrichment decay curve. The aim of this study was to apply noncompartmental and compartmental analysis on the entire enrichment decay curve of DSPC-PA and to compare the kinetic data with our previous results. We analyzed 10 preterm newborns with BPD (gestational age 26 ± 0.6 wk, weight 777 ± 199 g) and 6 controls (gestational age 26 ± 1.4 wk, weight 787 ± 259 g). All took part in our previous study. Endotracheal13C-labeled dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine was administered, and the13C-enrichment of surfactant DSPC-PA was measured from serial tracheal aspirates by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Noncompartmental and compartmental models were numerically identified from the tracer-to-tracee ratio and kinetic parameters related to the accessible (pool accessible to sampling, likely to be the lung alveolar pool) and to the nonaccessible pools (pools not accessible to samplings, likely to be the intracellular storage pool) were estimated in the two study groups. Comparison was performed by Mann-Whitney test. A two-compartment model provided the most reliable assessment of DSPC-PA kinetics. In BPD vs. controls, mean ± SE residence time of DSPC-PA in the accessible was 17.5 ± 2.6 vs. 32.2 ± 6.4 h ( P < 0.05), whereas it was 49.7 ± 3.5 vs. 54.4 ± 3.9 h (NS, not significant) in the nonaccessible pool; DSPC-PA recycling was 0.26 ± 0.05 vs. 0.43 ± 0.04% (NS), respectively. A two-compartment model of surfactant DSPC-PA kinetics allowed a thorough assessment of DSPC-PA kinetics, including masses, synthesis, and fluxes between pools. The most important findings of this study are that in BPD infants DSPC-PA loss from the alveolar pool was higher and recycling through the intracellular pool lower than in controls.
Contractile Properties of the Cultured Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Bi Dan , Nishimura Junji , Niiro Naohisa , Hirano Katsuya , Kanaide Hideo
Published: March 2005

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) have a remarkable degree of plasticity and in response to vascular injury, they can change to a dedifferentiated state that can be typically seen in cell cultures. Recently, Y27632, a Rho kinase inhibitor, has been reported to preferentially correct hypertension in a hypertensive rat model. We thus tested the hypothesis that the contraction of the cultured VSMCs might be more dependent on the function of RhoA than the VSMCs in fresh tissue. For this purpose, a tissue-like ring preparation was made using the cultured porcine coronary artery SMCs (CASMCs) and collagen gel (reconstituted ring: R-ring). The R-ring developed an isometric tension on stimulation by high external K
+
or various receptor agonists. The phorbol ester (a protein kinase C (PKC) activator)-induced contraction of the intact R-ring was greatly inhibited, while the GTPγS (an activator of RhoA)-induced and Ca
2+
-independent contraction of permeabilized R-ring was greatly enhanced, in comparison to the fresh coronary artery ring. An immunoblot analysis showed the expression levels of RhoA and myosin phosphatase subunits (MYPT1 and PP1cδ) to be up-regulated, while the levels of CPI-17 (PKC-potentiated protein phosphatase-1 inhibitory protein), h1-calponin and PKC isoforms were downregulated in cultured CASMCs. The knock down of RhoA by RNA interference decreased the contractility of the cultured CASMCs. It is concluded that the contractility of the cultured VSMCs thus appears to be much more dependent on the function of RhoA than VSMCs in fresh tissue. The expression level of RhoA thus plays a crucial role in regulating the contractility of cultured VSMCs.
Italy Revisited: The Encyclopedia
Authors: Epstein Steven A.
Published: March 2005

The proliferation of encyclopedias and dictionaries in every field raises questions concerning the scholarly purpose and economics of these enterprises: Who stands to benefit from them most, and who can afford them? A new encyclopedia of medieval Italy distills for the current moment the latest canonical judgment of editors and authors about which subjects merit scrutiny and how much weight they should receive in a reference work intended to be consulted rather than read from cover to cover. The process of interdisciplinary collaboration results in a collective portrait of medieval Italy containing some surprises, only a few of which are pleasant.
Evolving Treatment Strategies for Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A Population-Based Survival Analysis
Authors: Panades Miguel , Olivotto Ivo A. , Speers Caroline H. , Shenkier Tamara , Olivotto Theodora A. , Weir Lorna , Allan Sharon J. , Truong Pauline T.
Published: March 2005

Purpose

To determine if mastectomy (Mx) use, chemotherapy (CT) intensity, or treatment sequence of CT, radiation therapy (RT), and Mx have improved outcome for inflammatory breast cancer (IBC).

Patients and Methods

A retrospective analysis of 485 patients with IBC diagnosed in British Columbia between 1980 and 2000 analyzed locoregional relapse-free survival (LRFS) and breast cancer–specific survival (BCSS) by treatment intent and treatment received. Curative intent was defined as delivery of more than four cycles of anthracycline-based CT plus locoregional RT in patients without distant metastases.

Results

Median follow-up among survivors was 6.5 years. Median BCSS was 1.0 and 3.2 years for patients with distant metastases at diagnosis or those who were curatively treated, respectively. Among patients treated curatively (n = 308), there were no significant differences in LRFS or BCSS with timing of Mx before or after CT/RT, time between diagnosis and RT, or the sequence of RT and CT. Patients receiving more intensive CT had improved 10-year BCSS compared with standard CT (43.7% v 26.3%; P = .04). Ten-year LRFS for patients having Mx after CT, Mx before CT, and without Mx was 62.8%, 58.6%, and 34.4%, respectively (P = .0001); the corresponding 10-year BCSS was 36.9%, 19.9%, and 22.5%, respectively (P = .005). On multivariate analysis, Mx was associated with improved LRFS (P = .04). Independent prognostic factors for BCSS were menopausal status (P = .02), estrogen receptor status (P = .02), and CT type (P = .05).

Conclusion

This retrospective analysis suggested that mastectomy, in conjunction with CT and RT, seemed to enhance locoregional control, whereas modern CT regimens seemed to improve BCSS.
Becoming a lifer? Unlocking career through metaphor
Authors: El‐Sawad Amal
Published: March 2005

Despite growing interest in the adoption of metaphor analysis as a method of studying organizational and working life, there have been few, if any, empirical studies of career metaphors. Although career scholars have imposed their own metaphors to help illuminate their conceptions of career, the metaphors employed by those having careers and the conceptual insight this might generate has been all but ignored. This paper seeks to address this gap. Drawing on the career accounts of graduate level employees within a large blue‐chip corporation, the metaphors they employ are analysed. The dominant metaphors contained within the careers literature – spatial, journey, horticultural, and competition metaphors – are drawn on heavily by participants. So too are other groups of metaphors not acknowledged within the literature. These are revealed as imprisonment, military, school‐like surveillance, Wild West and nautical metaphors. An analysis of these metaphors generates fresh insights into the concept of career and leads to the ‘unlocking’ of important, but to date neglected features of career. On the basis of this metaphor analysis, the paper argues that career may be better understood in terms of a politicized process in which discipline and control are key dimensions.
Predicting the different profiles of organizational identification: A case of shipyard subcontractors
Authors: Lipponen Jukka , Helkama Klaus , Olkkonen Maria‐Elena , Juslin Milla
Published: March 2005

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the predictors of different organizational identification profiles. Hypotheses based on the social identity approach and the literature on organizational commitment were formed and tested in a sample gathered from employees of 20 shipyard subcontractors. The results supported the idea that different subgroup characteristics (prestige, contact, and size) may be used to explain four different combinations of subgroup identification (with the subcontractor) and superordinate identification (with the shipyard). However, contrary to our hypotheses, none of the variables concerning relationships between the subgroups (intergroup competition, intergroup contact and perceived discrimination) emerged as significant predictors.
Two Black men with prostate cancer: A narrative approach
Authors: Gray Ross E. , Fergus Karen D. , Fitch Margaret I.
Published: March 2005

Objectives. This paper demonstrates the value of a narrative approach for health psychology. It focuses on the lives of two Black men with prostate cancer, drawn from a larger study investigating the links between masculinities and prostate cancer.

Design. The study was a qualitative, interview‐based study. Each participant was interviewed four times.

Methods and analysis. The men were asked to describe and discuss their prostate cancer experience, as well as their lives prior to illness. In order to gain a perspective on individual experiences of men with prostate cancer, we took a narrative approach to gathering and analysing data. Results are reported through two descriptive narratives.

Conclusions. The narratives of the men described in the paper show how the interaction of race with health and illness is neither predictable nor consistent at the individual level. Black men, like all men with prostate cancer, have diverse experiences and are influenced by a wide array of personal and societal factors. While the high risk of prostate cancer among Black men makes proactive interventions advisable, such interventions will be most effective if the heterogeneity of men's experiences are taken into account.
Ion solvation in aqueous–organic mixtures
Authors: Hefter Glenn
Published: March 2005

The importance of ion solvation in determining the properties of electrolyte solutions in aqueous–organic solvent mixtures is discussed. Solubility measurements are shown to be particularly useful for determining the Gibbs energies of transfer of ions between solvents, which reflect differences in the overall solvation of the ions in different solvent mixtures. Solubility measurements can also be used to determine the other thermodynamic parameters of transfer, but such quantities are usually better obtained by more direct methods. The inadequacy of current theories of ion solvation to quantitatively account for the thermodynamics of ion transfer is discussed by reference to measurements on some simple model systems. Although donor/acceptor interactions can explain many of the observed effects between pure solvents, the situation is more complex in aqueous–organic mixtures because selective solvation and even solvent–solvent interactions may become significant. This is illustrated by consideration of ion transfer from water to water + t-butanol solutions, where spectacular effects are observed in the enthalpies and entropies and especially in the heat capacities and volumes.
Gas–liquid interactions in solution
Authors: Costa Gomes M. F. , Pádua A. A. H.
Published: March 2005

Two approaches are followed to understand how molecular interactions influence the macroscopic properties of solutions: (1) experiment, through the determination of gas solubility, and (2) computer simulation, used to evaluate microscopic properties (structural and energetic). Examples of application of these approaches are considered in order to explain the properties of solutions containing fluorinated fluids or ionic liquids. The molecular structures and interactions are described by force fields built from ab initio quantum chemical calculations. These models allow the determination of free energies from computer simulations by using appropriate energy routes provided by statistical mechanics. The macroscopic properties related to the process of dissolution of several gases are interpreted in terms of the molecular structure of the solutions and of the solute–solvent interactions.
Ionic complexes of 1,1′‐dimethyltitanocene(IV) dichloride with simple α‐amino acids: synthesis, structural characterisation and investigation on hydrolytic stability in aqueous solution
Authors: Bína Radim , Pavlišta Martin , Černošek Zdeněk , Císařová Ivana , Pavlík Ivan
Published: March 2005

Five cationic complexes of the general formula [Cp′2Ti(A)2]2+ [Cl−]2 [Cp′ = η5‐(CH3)C5H4 and A = glycine, 1; 2‐methylalanine, 2; N‐methylglycine, 3; L‐alanine, 4; and D‐alanine 5] were prepared by the reaction of Cp′2TiCl2 and the appropriate α‐amino acid in 1:2 molar ratio from methanol–water solution in high yield. Air‐stable crystalline solids, highly soluble in water, were characterized by means of elemental analysis, IR, Raman, 1H, 13C and 14N NMR spectroscopy. The structure of compound 3 was determined by single crystal X‐ray crystallography: orthorhombic Pbca No. 61, a = 9.5310(3), b = 18.2980(5), c = 26.6350(5) Å, V = 4654 Å3, Z = 8. Hydrolytic stability of all compounds in D2O was investigated using 1H NMR spectroscopy within the pD interval of 2.9–6.5. All compounds slowly decomposed during 24 h at pD = 2.94, forming a mixture of hydrolytic products [Cp′2Ti(A)(D2O)]2+, [Cp′2Ti(D2O)2]2+ and respective α‐amino acids. By elevating pD to 4.0 and up to 6.5, a yellowish precipitate was formed, which indicates decomposition of the complexes. These compounds were characterized using elemental analyses, IR and Raman spectroscopy and attributed to oligomeric and/or polymeric structures described empirically by the formula Ti(Cp′)xOy(OH)z (x = 0.65; y = 0.3, z = 1.9). Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimization of colloidal nanoparticle synthesis via NR4(BEt3H) reduction
Authors: Kinge S. , Bönnemann H.
Published: March 2005

Optimization of platinum and PtRu colloid syntheses via NR4(BEt3H) reduction was achieved via the ‘reverse addition mode’. The amount of stabilizing agent could be reduced by 40%. This improvement leads to a better particle size control and a considerable reduction of unwanted organic residues on the metal colloid particle surface. The PtRu catalyst prepared by reverse addition mode shows improvement in the methanol oxidation activity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Carboxymethylation of cellulosic material (average degree of polymerization 2600) isolated from cotton (Gossypium) linters with respect to degree of substitution and rheological behavior
Authors: Khullar Ritu , Varshney V. K. , Naithani Sanjay , Heinze Thomas , Soni P. L.
Published: March 2005

Carboxymethylation of cellulosic material (average degree of polymerization 2600) containing 76.5% cellulose and 23.6% xylose isolated from cotton (Gossypium) linters was studied under varying reaction conditions with respect to maximum degree of substitution (DS). The influence of reaction conditions on the apparent viscosity of the prepared derivatives was also studied. The conditions optimized were sodium hydroxide concentration 3.75M, monochloroacetic acid concentration 2.05 mol/AGU, carboxymethylation time 3.5 h, and temperature 55°C, to yield carboxymethyl cellulose of DS 0.77. Rheological studies of 1 and 2% solutions of the optimized product revealed their non‐Newtonian pseudoplastic behavior. Repeating units of the optimized product were also determined by HPLC after complete depolymerization of the polymer. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 96: 1477–1482, 2005
Role of sensory‐motor cortex activity in postnatal development of corticospinal axon terminals in the cat
Authors: Friel Kathleen M. , Martin John H.
Published: March 2005

The initial pattern of corticospinal (CS) terminations, as axons grow into the spinal gray matter, bares little resemblance to the pattern later in development and in maturity. This is because of extensive axon pruning and local axon terminal growth during early postnatal development. Pruning is driven by activity‐dependent competition between the CS systems on each side during postnatal weeks (PW) 3–7. It is not known whether CS axon terminal growth and final topography are activity dependent. We examined the activity dependence of CS axon terminal growth and topography at different postnatal times. We inactivated sensory‐motor cortex by infusion of the γ‐aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) agonist muscimol and traced CS axons from the inactivated side. Inactivation between PW5 and PW7 produced permanent changes in projection topography, reduced local axon branching, and prevented development of dense clusters of presynaptic sites, which are normally characteristic of CS terminals. Inactivation at younger (PW3–5) and older (PW8–12) ages did not affect projection topography but impeded development of local axon branching and presynaptic site clusters. These effects were not due to increased cortical cell death during inactivation. Neural activity plays an important role in determining the morphology of CS terminals during the entire period of development, but, for the projection topography, the role of activity is exercised during a very brief period. This points to a complex, and possibly independent, regulation of termination topography and terminal morphology. Surprisingly, when a CS neuron's activity is blocked during early development, it does not recover lost connections later in development once activity resumes. J. Comp. Neurol. 485:43–56, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.