bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and application of a multifunctional reactive dye capable of high fixation efficiency on cellulose
Authors: Morris K F , Lewis D M , Broadbent P J
Published: June 2008

A polyfunctional reactive dye containing two dichloro‐s‐triazine residues linked through aliphatic amino groups via a third triazine system to the chromophoric residue has been prepared. The dye was synthesised stepwise from a specially synthesised 2,4‐dichloro‐s‐triazine dyes. The first step is the reaction of both carbon–chlorine sites in the ‘parent’ dye with 2 mol ethylenediamine under selected conditions of pH and temperature; these conditions ensure that only one of the amino groups in the ethylenediamine will react to give the bis‐2,4‐aminoethyleneaminotriazine dye. The second step is the condensation of 2 mol cyanuric chloride with the two pendant primary amino groups. The alkylamino‐linked dichloro‐s‐triazine dyes show very different dyeing properties when compared with those shown by the parent dichloro‐s‐triazine dye, which has the reactive group linked directly into the aromatic chromophore; in particular, the new dyes have high fixation efficiencies when dyed on cotton at 50 °C and the dye–fibre bond stability to boiling acidic conditions is very good.
Acamprosate: Recent Findings and Future Research Directions
Authors: Mann Karl , Kiefer Falk , Spanagel Rainer , Littleton John
Published: June 2008

This article explores the mechanisms of action and the potential responder profile of acamprosate, a compound efficacious in relapse prevention of alcoholism. New evidence at the molecular and cellular level suggests that acamprosate attenuates hyper‐glutamatergic states that occur during early abstinence and involves iono (NMDA)‐ and metabotrotropic (mGluR5) glutamate receptors along with augmented intracellular calcium release and electrophysiological changes. Thus mutant mice with enhanced glutamate levels exhibit higher alcohol consumption than wild type mice and respond better to acamprosate, demonstrating that acamprosate acts mainly on a hyper‐glutamatergic system. This mode of action further suggests that acamprosate exhibits neuroprotective properties. In rats, cue‐induced reinstatement behavior is significantly reduced by acamprosate treatment whereas cue‐induced craving responses in alcohol‐dependent patients seem not to be affected by this treatment. An ongoing study (“Project Predict”) defines specific responder profiles for an individualized use of acamprosate and naltrexone. Neurophysiological as well as psychometric data are used to define 2 groups of patients: “reward cravers” and “relief cravers”. While naltrexone should work better in the first group, acamprosate is hypothesized to be efficacious in the latter where withdrawal associated and/or cue induced hyper‐glutamatergic states are thought to trigger relapse. Further research should target the definition of subgroups applying endophenotypic approaches, e.g. by detecting a hyperglutamatergic syndrome using MR spectroscopy.
The Usefulness of Direct Ethanol Metabolites in Assessing Alcohol Intake in Nonintoxicated Male Patients in an Emergency Room Setting
Authors: Kip Miriam Julia , Spies Claudia Doris , Neumann Tim , Nachbar Yvonne , Alling Christer , Aradottir Steina , Weinmann Wolfgang , Wurst Friedrich Martin
Published: June 2008

Background:  A major part of medical pathology in internal medicine is associated with chronic alcoholism. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether screening for Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD) can be improved through determination of direct ethanol metabolites compared to traditional biological state markers, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and additional self‐reports beyond the detection time period of a positive blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

Methods:  A total of 74 blood alcohol negative male patients who presented at the emergency room with either thoracic or gastrointestinal complaints were included. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) was determined in whole blood, and ethyl glucuronide (EtG) in serum and urine samples. Traditional biological state markers [carbohydrate deficient transferrin (%CDT), gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), mean corpuscular volume (MCV)] were determined. The AUDIT was obtained and furthermore, all patients completed an additional self‐report of alcohol consumption. Patients were divided into two (2) groups: AUDIT scores < 8 and AUDIT scores ≥ 8.

Results:  After assessment of the AUDIT, patients were allocated to one of the following groups: patients with AUDIT scores < 8 (n = 52) and with AUDIT scores ≥ 8 (n = 22). Twenty‐five percent of the patients with AUDIT scores below the cut‐off (n = 13/52) were tested positive for both PEth and UEtG. Of the patients who declared to be sober during the past 12 months, 38.5% were tested positive for PEth and UEtG. PEth discriminated similarly as %CDT for AUDIT scores ≥ 8 (AUC: 0.672; 95%CI 0.524 to 0.821). Self‐reports of alcohol consumption were unreliable.

Conclusion:  Determination of direct ethanol metabolites such as PEth and UEtG provides additional evidence in screening for AUD in an ER setting. Determination of PEth might be considered complementary with or alternatively to %CDT.
Effects of Alcohol on Simulated Driving and Perceived Driving Impairment in Binge Drinkers
Authors: Marczinski Cecile A. , Harrison Emily L.R. , Fillmore Mark T.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Binge drinking (heavy episodic alcohol use) is associated with high rates of impaired driving and myriad alcohol‐related accidents. However, the underlying reasons for the heightened accident risk in this demographic group are not known. This research examined acute alcohol effects on simulated driving performance and subjective ratings of intoxication and driving ability in binge and nonbinge drinkers.

Methods:  Young social drinking college students (24 binge drinkers and 16 nonbinge drinkers) participated in this study. Participants attended a session during which they received a moderate dose of alcohol (0.65 g/kg) and a session during which they received a placebo. A simulated driving task measured participants’ driving performance in response to each dose. Subjective responses to each dose were also assessed, including ratings of sedation, stimulation, and driving ability.

Results:  The acute dose of alcohol impaired multiple aspects of driving performance in both binge and nonbinge drinkers. Under alcohol, all participants had greater difficulty in maintaining their lane position, maintaining the appropriate speed and made multiple driving errors compared to placebo performance. By contrast, compared with nonbinge drinkers, binge drinkers reported feeling less sedated by the alcohol and reported having a greater ability to drive following the acute dose of alcohol.

Conclusions:  Reduced subjective intoxication and perceived driving impairment in binge drinkers may account for the greater accident risk in this demographic group. Binge drinkers may lack the internal sedation cue that helps them accurately assess that they are not able to effectively drive a vehicle after drinking.
A Randomized Double‐Blind Pilot Trial of Gabapentin Versus Placebo to Treat Alcohol Dependence and Comorbid Insomnia
Authors: Brower Kirk J. , Myra Kim Hyungjin , Strobbe Stephen , Karam‐Hage Maher A. , Consens Flavia , Zucker Robert A.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Insomnia and other sleep disturbances are common, persistent, and associated with relapse in alcohol‐dependent patients. The purpose of this pilot study was to compare gabapentin versus placebo for the treatment of insomnia and prevention of relapse in alcohol‐dependent patients.

Methods:  Twenty‐one subjects, including 10 women who met study criteria for alcohol dependence and insomnia and expressed a desire to abstain from alcohol, were recruited to the study. During a 1 to 2 week placebo lead‐in and screening phase, a complete medical history, physical exam, blood tests, urine drug test, and structured interviews were performed to determine eligibility and patterns of alcohol use and sleep. Insomnia due to intoxication or acute withdrawal, psychiatric or medical illness, medications, and other sleep disorders were ruled out. Subjects were then randomized to either placebo (n = 11) or gabapentin (n = 10) for 6 weeks and titrated over a 10‐day period to 1,500 mg or 5 pills at bedtime. After a 4‐day taper, subjects were reassessed 6 weeks after ending treatment.

Results:  Gabapentin significantly delayed the onset to heavy drinking, an effect which persisted for 6 weeks after treatment ended. Insomnia improved in both treatment groups during the medication phase, but gabapentin had no differential effects on sleep as measured by either subjective report or polysomnography.

Conclusion:  Because gabapentin is a short‐acting medication that was taken only at nighttime in this study, it may possibly exert a nocturnal effect that prevents relapse to heavy drinking by a physiological mechanism not measured in this pilot study.
Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN): A role for polymorphisms in the β‐adrenergic receptor (ADRB) encoding genes?
Authors: Aslan Ece , Tutdibi Erol , Martens Swantje , Han Yihua , Monz Dominik , Gortner Ludwig
Published: June 2008

Aim: Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a common cause of early respiratory distress in the neonatal period of term infants. Delayed resorption of foetal lung fluid after birth is considered as the main pathophysiological factor. As resorption of foetal lung fluid is a catecholamine dependent process, we aimed at investigating, whether β1‐ and β2‐adrenoreceptor (ADRB1, ADRB2) polymorphisms, known to alter catecholamine activity, are operative in TTN.

Methods: DNA was collected for genotyping from 73 term newborns suffering from TTN and 55 healthy controls from a Caucasian cohort.

Results: TTN infants were more likely to be male (70% vs. 49%; p < 0.05), had a lower mean birthweight (3120 ± 450 vs. 3396 ± 504 g; p < 0.001) and gestational age (GA) (38.4 ± 1.2 vs. 39.4 ± 1.3 weeks; p < 0.001) and were more often delivered by caesarean section (CS) (71% vs. 26%; p < 0.001). The β1Ser49Gly polymorphism differed significantly between cases and controls. Multivariate analysis provided β1Gly49 homozygotes with higher risk for TTN (OR 18.5; 95%CI 1.5–229; p = 0.023) than β1Ser49 allele carrier. Further analysis showed significant association of T‐47C, A46G, C79G and C491T (TACC) haplotype in ADRB2 gene with TTN (p = 0.048).

Conclusion: We conclude that β1Gly49 homozygosity and TACC haplotype of ADRB2 gene, both loss‐of‐function genetic variations, may predispose to TTN.
Communication and child behaviour associated with unwillingness to take premedication
Authors: Proczkowska‐Björklund Marie , Runeson Ingrid , Gustafsson Per A , Svedin Carl Göran
Published: June 2008

Aim: To see how dominance in adult communication and child behaviour during premedication affects the child's unwillingness to take premedication.

Method: Ninety‐five children scheduled for ENT surgery were video‐filmed during premedication. All communication was translated verbatim and the communication was grouped according to; if the parent or nurse directed their communication towards the child or not, or; if they talked about nonprocedural matters or procedural matters.

Results: Unwillingness to take premedication was associated with more parent communication and less anaesthetic nurse communication compared to willingness to take premedication. There was a heighten risk that the child took their premedication unwillingly if their parent talked more directly to the child (OR = 4.9, p ≤ 0.01), the child gave hesitant eye contact with the anaesthetic nurse (OR = 4.5, p ≤ 0.05), the child had experienced an earlier traumatic medical procedure (OR = 4.1. p ≤ 0.001) or if the child placed her/himself nearby their parent (OR = 4.0, p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion: Together with behaviour that could be signs of shyness and earlier medical traumatic experience, parents that are actively communicating with their child before premedication may heighten the risk that the child will take the premedication unwillingly.
The Effectiveness of Cultural‐Competence Training for Health Professionals in Community‐Based Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Chipps Jennifer Anne , Simpson Barbara , Brysiewicz Petra
Published: June 2008

Aims:To find and review studies in which investigators evaluated cultural‐competence training in community‐based rehabilitation settings; critique study methods, describe clinical outcomes, and make recommendations for future research.

Background:A review of the effectiveness of cultural‐competence training for health professionals in community‐based rehabilitation settings was conducted.

Data Sources:Research citations from 1991–2006 in CINAHL, Medline, Pubmed, PsycInfo, SABINET, Cochrane, Google, NEXUS, and unpublished abstracts were searched.

Methods:Searching, sifting, abstracting, and assessing quality of relevant studies by three reviewers. Studies were evaluated for sample, design, intervention, threats to validity, and outcomes. A meta‐analysis was not conducted because the studies did not address the same research question.

Results:Five studies and one systematic review were evaluated. Positive outcomes were reported for most training programs. Reviewed studies generally had small samples and poor design.

Conclusions/Implications:The paucity of studies and lack of empirical precision in evaluating effectiveness necessitate future studies that are methodologically rigorous to allow confident recommendations for practice.
Heteromer formation of a long‐chain prenyl diphosphate synthase from fission yeast Dps1 and budding yeast Coq1*
Authors: Zhang Mei , Luo Jun , Ogiyama Yuki , Saiki Ryoichi , Kawamukai Makoto
Published: June 2008

Ubiquinone is an essential factor for the electron transfer system and is also a known lipid antioxidant. The length of the ubiquinone isoprenoid side‐chain differs amongst living organisms, with six isoprene units in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, eight units in Escherichia coli and 10 units in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe and in humans. The length of the ubiquinone isoprenoid is determined by the product generated by polyprenyl diphosphate synthases (poly‐PDSs), which are classified into homodimer (i.e. octa‐PDS IspB in E. coli) and heterotetramer [i.e. deca‐PDSs Dps1 and D‐less polyprenyl diphosphate synthase (Dlp1) in Sc. pombe and in humans] types. In this study, we characterized the hexa‐PDS (Coq1) of S. cerevisiae to identify whether this enzyme was a homodimer (as in bacteria) or a heteromer (as in fission yeast). When COQ1 was expressed in an E. coli ispB disruptant, only hexa‐PDS activity and ubiquinone‐6 were detected, indicating that the expression of Coq1 alone results in bacterial enzyme‐like functionality. However, when expressed in fission yeast Δdps1 and Δdlp1 strains, COQ1 restored growth on minimal medium in the Δdlp1 but not Δdps1 strain. Intriguingly, ubiquinone‐9 and ubiquinone‐10, but not ubiquinone‐6, were identified and deca‐PDS activity was detected in the COQ1‐expressing Δdlp1 strain. No enzymatic activity or ubiquinone was detected in the COQ1‐expressing Δdps1 strain. These results indicate that Coq1 partners with Dps1, but not with Dlp1, to be functional in fission yeast. Binding of Coq1 and Dps1 was demonstrated by coimmunoprecipitation, and the formation of a tetramer consisting of Coq1 and Dps1 was detected in Sc. pombe. Thus, Coq1 is functional when expressed alone in E. coli and in budding yeast, but is only functional as a partner with Dps1 in fission yeast. This unusual observation indicates that different folding processes or protein modifications in budding yeast/E. coli versus those in fission yeast might affect the formation of an active enzyme. These results provide important insights into the process of how PDSs have evolved from homo‐ to hetero‐types.
Selenium, immune function and resistance to viral infections
Authors: GILL Harsharn , WALKER Glen
Published: June 2008

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient that, through its incorporation into selenoproteins, plays a pivotal role in maintaining optimal health. Insufficient intake of Se enhances predisposition to diseases associated with oxidative stress to cells and tissues while supplementation above the recommended levels has been shown to confer health benefits such as enhanced immune competence and resistance to viral infections and in animal models and human studies. Recent studies have also shown that different sources of Se differ in their bioavailability and bioactivity and that Se‐enriched milk may be a superior source of Se. In this paper, we briefly describe the nature of selenoproteins, sources of Se in diets and the known mechanisms by which Se/selenoproteins regulate redox balance, augment immune function and mediate resistance to viral infections.
Delivering polyphenols for healthy ageing
Authors: KOSARAJU Shantha L. , LABBETT Deanne , EMIN Michelle , KONCZAK Izabela , LUNDIN Leif
Published: June 2008

There is a growing demand for delivery of antioxidants through functional foods with the concomitant challenge of protecting their bioactivity during food processing and subsequent passage through the gastrointestinal tract. This study focuses on the retention of antioxidant activity of polyphenolic antioxidants after encapsulation/spray‐drying. The polyphenolic compounds present in grape‐seed extract (GSE), apple polyphenol extract (APE) and olive‐leaf extract (OLE) were analysed by chromatographic methods. Catechin, epicatechin and gallic acid were identified in GSE and APE. Oleorupein is the major compound found in OLE. Total polyphenol content was found to be the highest in APE followed by GSE and OLE. These extracts were encapsulated using protein‐lipid emulsions and subsequently spray‐dried. Optical microscopy and particle size distribution analysis indicated the sphericity and uniform size distribution pattern of the dry particles. Radical scavenging activity studies demonstrated significant retention of antioxidant activity after the encapsulation and spray‐drying process.
Defining the functional properties of dietary protein and protein‐rich foods in human energy expenditure
Authors: TAN Sze Yen , TAPSELL Linda , BATTERHAM Marijka , CHARLTON Karen
Published: June 2008

Food has a number of functional properties that can support the balance between energy intake and energy expenditure and, theoretically, one of these is the thermic effect of food. Including high‐protein foods in meals may be advantageous in contributing to energy expenditure but, in practice, the evidence needs to relate to specific foods and normal dietary conditions. Using the human whole room calorimeter facility, we conducted three studies to examine the effects of: (i) higher and lower levels of protein on energy expenditure; (ii) high‐protein meals using different foods to deliver the protein; and (iii) omnivorous and vegetarian cuisines in meal tests before and after a period of dietary intervention for weight loss. The meal effect of protein does not appear to differ between foods, and while high‐protein diets might support weight loss, it may be difficult to prove a metabolic cause in the free‐living environment.
Assessing the physiological concentration and targets of nitric oxide in brain tissue
Authors: Hall Catherine N. , Attwell David
Published: June 2008

Low nanomolar concentrations of nitric oxide activate guanylyl cyclase to produce cGMP, which has diverse physiological effects. Higher concentrations inhibit mitochondrial respiration at cytochrome c oxidase and this has been proposed to be important physiologically, increasing oxygen permeation into tissue (by reducing the oxygen use of cells near blood vessels), activating AMP kinase, and regulating the relationship between cerebral blood flow and oxygen use. It is unclear, however, whether nitric oxide can accumulate physiologically to concentrations at which inhibition of respiration occurs. In rat cerebellar slices, we activated nitric oxide production from each isoform of nitric oxide synthase. Only activation of inducible nitric oxide synthase, which is expressed pathologically, caused any significant inhibition of respiration. Modelling oxygen and nitric oxide concentrations predicted that, in vivo, physiological nitric oxide levels are too low to affect respiration. Even pathologically, the nitric oxide concentration may only rise to 2.5 nm, producing a 1.5% inhibition of respiration. Thus, under physiological conditions, nitric oxide signals do not inhibit respiration but are well‐tuned to the dynamic range of guanylyl cyclase activation.
TRP channels entering the structural era
Authors: Gaudet Rachelle
Published: June 2008

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are important in many neuronal and non‐neuronal physiological processes. The past 2 years have seen much progress in the use of structural biology techniques to elucidate molecular mechanisms of TRP channel gating and regulation. Two approaches have proven fruitful: (i) a divide‐and‐conquer strategy has provided high‐resolution structural details of TRP channel fragments although it fails to explain how these fragments are integrated in the full channel; and (ii) electron microscopy of entire TRP channels has yielded low‐resolution images that provide a basis for testable models of TRP channel architecture. The results of each approach, summarized in this review, provide a preview of what the future holds in TRP channel structural biology.
The Aftershock Signature of Supershear Earthquakes
Authors: Bouchon Michel , Karabulut Hayrullah
Published: June 2008

Recent studies show that earthquake faults may rupture at speeds exceeding the shear wave velocity of rocks. This supershear rupture produces in the ground a seismic shock wave similar to the sonic boom produced by a supersonic airplane. This shock wave may increase the destruction caused by the earthquake. We report that supershear earthquakes are characterized by a specific pattern of aftershocks: The fault plane itself is remarkably quiet whereas aftershocks cluster off the fault, on secondary structures that are activated by the supershear rupture. The post-earthquake quiescence of the fault shows that friction is relatively uniform over supershear segments, whereas the activation of off-fault structures is explained by the shock wave radiation, which produces high stresses over a wide zone surrounding the fault.
Strong Dissipation Inhibits Losses and Induces Correlations in Cold Molecular Gases
Authors: Syassen N. , Bauer D. M. , Lettner M. , Volz T. , Dietze D. , García-Ripoll J. J. , Cirac J. I. , Rempe G. , Dürr S.
Published: June 2008

Atomic quantum gases in the strong-correlation regime offer unique possibilities to explore a variety of many-body quantum phenomena. Reaching this regime has usually required both strong elastic and weak inelastic interactions because the latter produce losses. We show that strong inelastic collisions can actually inhibit particle losses and drive a system into a strongly correlated regime. Studying the dynamics of ultracold molecules in an optical lattice confined to one dimension, we show that the particle loss rate is reduced by a factor of 10. Adding a lattice along the one dimension increases the reduction to a factor of 2000. Our results open the possibility to observe exotic quantum many-body phenomena with systems that suffer from strong inelastic collisions.
Piling On the Selection Pressure
Authors: Bolhuis Johan J.
Published: June 2008

Evolutionary Psychology as Maladapted Psychology
.
By Robert C. Richardson
. MIT Press, Cambridge, MA, 2007. 225 pp. $30, £19.95. ISBN 9780262182607. Life and Mind: Philosophical Issues in Biology and Psychology.

Taking an evolutionary biology perspective, a philosopher of science criticizes the theoretical framework of evolutionary psychology.
Patches with Links: A Unified System for Processing Faces in the Macaque Temporal Lobe
Authors: Moeller Sebastian , Freiwald Winrich A. , Tsao Doris Y.
Published: June 2008

The brain processes objects through a series of regions along the ventral visual pathway, but the circuitry subserving the analysis of specific complex forms remains unknown. One complex form category, faces, selectively activates six patches of cortex in the macaque ventral pathway. To identify the connectivity of these face patches, we used electrical microstimulation combined with simultaneous functional magnetic resonance imaging. Stimulation of each of four targeted face patches produced strong activation, specifically within a subset of the other face patches. Stimulation outside the face patches produced an activation pattern that spared the face patches. These results suggest that the face patches form a strongly and specifically interconnected hierarchical network.
Natural Selection Shapes Genome-Wide Patterns of Copy-Number Polymorphism in
Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Emerson J. J. , Cardoso-Moreira Margarida , Borevitz Justin O. , Long Manyuan
Published: June 2008

The role that natural selection plays in governing the locations and early evolution of copy-number mutations remains largely unexplored. We used high-density full-genome tiling arrays to create a fine-scale genomic map of copy-number polymorphisms (CNPs) in
Drosophila melanogaster
. We inferred a total of 2658 independent CNPs, 56% of which overlap genes. These include CNPs that are likely to be under positive selection, most notably high-frequency duplications encompassing toxin-response genes. The locations and frequencies of CNPs are strongly shaped by purifying selection, with deletions under stronger purifying selection than duplications. Among duplications, those overlapping exons or introns, as well as those falling on the X chromosome, seem to be subject to stronger purifying selection.
Animal Versus Wind Dispersal and the Robustness of Tree Species to Deforestation
Authors: Montoya Daniel , Zavala Miguel A. , Rodríguez Miguel A. , Purves Drew W.
Published: June 2008

Studies suggest that populations of different species do not decline equally after habitat loss. However, empirical tests have been confined to fine spatiotemporal scales and have rarely included plants. Using data from 89,365 forest survey plots covering peninsular Spain, we explored, for each of 34 common tree species, the relationship between probability of occurrence and the local cover of remaining forest. Twenty-four species showed a significant negative response to forest loss, so that decreased forest cover had a negative effect on tree diversity, but the responses of individual species were highly variable. Animal-dispersed species were less vulnerable to forest loss, with six showing positive responses to decreased forest cover. The results imply that plant-animal interactions help prevent the collapse of forest communities that suffer habitat destruction.
International Rugby Board Rugby World Cup 2007 injury surveillance study
Authors: Fuller C W , Laborde F , Leather R J , Molloy M G
Published: June 2008

Objective:

to determine the incidence, nature and causes of injuries sustained during the International Rugby Board (IRB) Rugby World Cup 2007.

Design:

Pospective, whole-population survey.

Population:

626 international rugby players representing 20 teams competing at the IRB Rugby World Cup 2007 in France.

Methods:

The survey followed the international consensus procedures for studies of injuries in rugby union; the main outcome measures were incidence of match and training injuries (number of injuries/1000 player hours), severity (days absence), location, type and cause of injury.

Results:

the incidence of injuries was 83.9/1000 player-match hours (forwards 84.0; backs 83.7) and 3.5/1000 player-training hours (forwards 3.5; backs 3.6). The average severity of injuries was 14.7 days (forwards 14.0; backs 15.5) during matches and 17.8 (forwards 15.9; backs 19.8) during training. Lower limb muscle and ligament injuries were the main injuries during both matches and training. Most injuries were sustained in the tackle during matches and in full-contact skills activities during training.

Conclusions:

This study shows the application of the methodology described in the international consensus statement on injury surveillance studies in rugby union and provides benchmark values for the incidence, severity, nature and causes of match and training injuries sustained during the IRB Rugby World Cup.
Non-contact ACL injuries in female athletes: an International Olympic Committee current concepts statement
Authors: Renstrom P , Ljungqvist A , Arendt E , Beynnon B , Fukubayashi T , Garrett W , Georgoulis T , Hewett T E , Johnson R , Krosshaug T , Mandelbaum B , Micheli L , Myklebust G , Roos E , Roos H , Schamasch P , Shultz S , Werner S , Wojtys E , Engebretsen L
Published: June 2008

The incidence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury remains high in young athletes. Because female athletes have a much higher incidence of ACL injuries in sports such as basketball and team handball than male athletes, the IOC Medical Commission invited a multidisciplinary group of ACL expert clinicians and scientists to (1) review current evidence including data from the new Scandinavian ACL registries; (2) critically evaluate high-quality studies of injury mechanics; (3) consider the key elements of successful prevention programmes; (4) summarise clinical management including surgery and conservative management; and (5) identify areas for further research. Risk factors for female athletes suffering ACL injury include: (1) being in the preovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle compared with the postovulatory phase; (2) having decreased intercondylar notch width on plain radiography; and (3) developing increased knee abduction moment (a valgus intersegmental torque) during impact on landing. Well-designed injury prevention programmes reduce the risk of ACL for athletes, particularly women. These programmes attempt to alter dynamic loading of the tibiofemoral joint through neuromuscular and proprioceptive training. They emphasise proper landing and cutting techniques. This includes landing softly on the forefoot and rolling back to the rearfoot, engaging knee and hip flexion and, where possible, landing on two feet. Players are trained to avoid excessive dynamic valgus of the knee and to focus on the “knee over toe position” when cutting.
Advances in Heroin Addiction Treatment with Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Systematic Review of Recent Chinese Language Journals
Authors: Jordan James B. , Tu Xiang
Published: June 2008

The aim of this review is to critically examine the clinical trial research on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as an intervention in treating heroin addiction in People's Republic of China. This review examines Chinese-language-only publications for the patent medicines: Shenfu Tuodu, Fukang Pian, and Shifu Sheng. Other compound medicines will be reviewed in future publications.

A systematic review of the literature was conducted in Western and Chinese databases. Most trials were excluded because they did not declare randomization and had poor methodology or reporting. The majority of clinical evidence in the random controlled trials demonstrates good evidence for TCM patent medicines in heroin addiction treatment. When compared to typical Western medications, TCMs demonstrate fewer side-effects, in addition to equal measures of treatment efficacy and safety.
Neurophysiologic Basis of Back-Shu and Huatuo-Jiaji Points
Authors: Cabioglu Mehmet Tugrul , Arslan Gülnaz
Published: June 2008

Acupuncture, a method of traditional Chinese medicine that uses Back-Shu and Huatuo-Jiaji points, is especially effective for treating diseases of the visceral organs. Applying acupuncture on Back-Shu points affects visceral organs in many ways. For example, it dilates the bronchus, affects the heartbeat, stomach motility, urinary bladder contractions and so on. Acupuncture's effects can be explained as viscero-cutaneous, cutaneo-visceral, cutaneo-muscular, and viscero-muscular reflexes. Segmental dispersion of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems is related to the location of Back-Shu points. Changes in visceral organs caused by application of acupuncture can be explained as modulation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.
The Effect of Acupuncture at PC-6 on the Electroencephalogram and Electrocardiogram
Authors: Kim Min Soo , Kim Hak Dong , Seo Hee Don , Sawada Kazuaki , Ishida Makoto
Published: June 2008

The present study aims to examine the effect of acupuncture stimulation of an acupuncture point (PC-6) and nonacupuncture point on electroencephalograms (EEGs) and electrocardiograms (ECGs). We used EEG in 10 healthy subjects to investigate cortical activation during stimulation of acupuncture points (neiguan: PC-6) and nonacupuncture points. Our most interesting finding was the marked differences of amplitude of EEG power between acupuncture points and nonacupuncture points stimulation. Wavelet transform was used as the EEG signal processing method, because it has advantages in a time domain and frequency domain characteristics analysis. EEGs were collected from 16 channels, and the α-wave (8–13 Hz), β-wave (13–30 Hz), θ-wave (4–8 Hz) and δ-wave (0.5–4 Hz) were used as standards for frequency bands. According to the experiment results, EEG signals increased considerably after acupuncture stimulation; in each frequency band, the average amplitude was higher after acupuncture stimulation; ECG heart rates were faster by at least 10% after acupuncture stimulation. Consequently, it will be possible to verify the function of acupuncture stimulation on neiguan (acupuncture points; PC-6) more effectively.
Anti-Atherogenic Effects of the Aqueous Extract of Rhubarb in Rats Fed an Atherogenic Diet
Authors: Moon Mi Kyoung , Kang Dae Gill , Lee An Sook , Yeom Ki Bok , Kim Jin Sook , Lee Ho Sub
Published: June 2008

The present study was designed to investigate whether the aqueous extract of rhubarb (AR) could prevent the development of atherosclerosis through regulating vascular inflammatory processes in rats fed with an atherogenic diet. AR significantly reduced plasma low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and increased plasma high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol in rats fed with an atherogenic diet. AR inhibited vascular expressions of endothelin-1 (ET-1) and endothelin-converting enzyme (ECE) induced in rats with an atherogenic diet. On the other hand, AR augmented the vascular expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (ecNOS) and restored vascular nitric oxide (NO) production. Furthermore, AR suppressed the elevated expression of vascular nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 as well as adhesion molecules, including intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and E-selectin in rats fed with an atherogenic diet. Also, AR decreased endothelial expression of ICAM-1 and ET-1 in aorta. These results suggest that AR suppresses the development of atherosclerosis in the atherogenic-diet rat model through inhibiting vascular expressions of proinflammatory and adhesion molecules via the regulation of nitric oxide and endothelin system.
Resveratrol Attenuates Adenosine Diphosphate-Induced Platelet Activation by Reducing Protein Kinase C Activity
Authors: Yang Yu-Min , Wang Xing-Xiang , Chen Jun-Zhu , Wang Shi-Jun , Hu Hu , Wang Hong-Qiang
Published: June 2008

Inappropriate platelet activation is the key point of thrombogenesis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of resveratrol (RESV), a compound extracted from the Chinese medicinal herb Polygonum cuspidatum sieb et Zucc, on the platelet activation induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and its possible mechanism. The percentage of platelet aggregation and surface P-selectin-positive platelets, and the activity of protein kinase C (PKC) of platelet were observed with platelet aggregometer, flow cytometry and phosphorimaging system, respectively. RESV at 25, 50 and 100 μM showed anti-platelet aggregation and inhibition of surface P-selectin-positive platelets in a concentration-dependent manner. RESV (50 μM) inhibited the activity of PKC in the membrane fraction of platelets and decreased the percentage of membrane associated PKC activity in total PKC activity. Moreover, DL-erythro-1,3-Dihydroxy-2-aminooctadecane, an elective protein kinase C inhibitor (PKCI), and RESV had additive effects of inhibiting the percentage of platelet aggregation and surface P-selectin-positive platelets. It is suggested that RESV may inhibit platelet aggregation, the percentage of surface P-selectin-positive platelets and subsequent thrombus formation. The mechanisms may be partly relative to the decrease of the activity of PKC of platelets.
DYNAMICALLY INDUCED SCALAR QUARK CONFINEMENT
Authors: ALKOFER REINHARD , FISCHER CHRISTIAN S. , LLANES-ESTRADA FELIPE J.
Published: June 2008

We employ a functional approach to investigate the confinement problem in quenched Landau gauge QCD. We demonstrate analytically that a linear rising potential between massive quarks is generated by infrared singularities in the dressed quark–gluon vertex. The self-consistent mechanism that generates these singularities is driven by the scalar Dirac amplitudes of the full vertex and the quark propagator. These can only be present when chiral symmetry is broken. We have thus uncovered a novel mechanism that directly links chiral symmetry breaking with confinement.
TWO NONCOMMUTATIVE PARAMETERS AND REGULAR COSMOLOGICAL PHASE TRANSITION IN THE SEMICLASSICAL DILATON COSMOLOGY
Authors: KIM WONTAE , SON EDWIN J.
Published: June 2008

We study cosmological phase transitions from modified equations of motion by introducing two noncommutative parameters in the Poisson brackets, which describes the initial- and future-singularity-free phase transition in the soluble semiclassical dilaton gravity with a nonvanishing cosmological constant. Accelerated expansion and decelerated expansion appear alternatively, where the model contains the second accelerated expansion. The final stage of the universe approaches the flat spacetime independent of the initial state of the curvature scalar as long as the product of the two noncommutative parameters is less than one. Finally, we show that the initial-singularity-free condition is related to the second accelerated expansion of the universe.
A CASE STUDY ON FMEA APPLICATIONS TO SYSTEM RELIABILITY STUDIES
Authors: PUTCHA CHANDRA S. , KALIA PRINCE , PIZZANO FRANK , HOSKINS GORDON , NEWTON COY , KAMDAR KUNAL J.
Published: June 2008

Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) has been used quite extensively in aerospace industry for several years to establish hardware criticality. Determination of software reliability is equally important. There are several methods for determining software reliability. One methods for performing software reliability is the software FMEA.

This paper discusses the application of principles to FMEA. A typical Tank pressurant is considered as an illustrative example. The tank pressurant system consists of three sets of solenoid valves (each set consists of a pair of valves), three pressure transducers, a vent valve, a heat exchanger and helium cold pressure bottles. Each set of solenoid valves consist of two solenoid valves connected in series. For the system to function properly, certain conditions have to be met. These are discussed in detail later in this paper.

Based on the information provided from NASA, it is concluded that FMEA has to be capable of determining the software failure modes, effects and criticality as well as the hardware failure modes effects and criticality which includes the pressure transducers, solenoid valves, vent valve, heat exchanger and helium cold pressure bottles. The paper will discuss both the hardware and software FMEA application in detail.
RNA Polymerase Elongation Factors
Authors: Roberts Jeffrey W. , Shankar Smita , Filter Joshua J.
Published: June 2008

The elongation phase of transcription by RNA polymerase is highly regulated and modulated. Both general and operon-specific elongation factors determine the local rate and extent of transcription to coordinate the appearance of transcript with its use as a messenger or functional ribonucleoprotein or regulatory element, as well as to provide operon-specific gene regulation.
A Case Study for Microbial Biodegradation: Anaerobic Bacterial Reductive Dechlorination of Polychlorinated Biphenyls—From Sediment to Defined Medium
Authors: Bedard Donna L.
Published: June 2008

The history of anaerobic microbial polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) dechlorination is traced over 20 years using a case study of PCB dechlorination in the Housatonic River (Massachusetts) as an example. The history progresses from the characterization of the PCBs in the sediment, to cultivation in sediment microcosms, to the identification of four distinct types of PCB dechlorination, to a successful field test, to the cultivation in defined medium of the organisms responsible for extensive dechlorination of Aroclor 1260, and finally to the identification of a Dehalococcoides population that links its growth to the dechlorination of Aroclor 1260. Other PCB dechlorinators have also been identified. Two bacterial strains, o-17 and DF-1, that link their growth to the dechlorination of several PCB congeners belong to a novel clade of putative dechlorinating bacteria within the phylum Chloroflexi. Dehalococcoides ethenogenes strain 195 also dechlorinates several PCB congeners when grown on chlorinated ethenes. Evidence is mounting that Dehalococcoides and other dechlorinating Chloroflexi may play a significant role in the dechlorination of commercial PCBs in situ.
Viral Subversion of Apoptotic Enzymes: Escape from Death Row
Authors: Best Sonja M.
Published: June 2008

To prolong cell viability and facilitate replication, viruses have evolved multiple mechanisms to inhibit the host apoptotic response. Cellular proteases such as caspases and serine proteases are instrumental in promoting apoptosis. Thus, these enzymes are logical targets for virus-mediated modulation to suppress cell death. Four major classes of viral inhibitors antagonize caspase function: serpins, p35 family members, inhibitor of apoptosis proteins, and viral FLICE-inhibitory proteins. Viruses also subvert activity of the serine proteases, granzyme B and HtrA2/Omi, to avoid cell death. The combined efforts of viruses to suppress apoptosis suggest that this response should be avoided at all costs. However, some viruses utilize caspases during replication to aid virus protein maturation, progeny release, or both. Hence, a multifaceted relationship exists between viruses and the apoptotic response they induce. Examination of these interactions contributes to our understanding of both virus pathogenesis and the regulation of apoptotic enzymes in normal cellular functions.
Measurement of the W Boson Mass at the Tevatron
Authors: Kotwal Ashutosh V. , Stark Jan
Published: June 2008

Over the past four decades, the standard model of electroweak interactions has achieved tremendous success in describing the experimental data. One of the key observables is the mass MW of the W boson. The experimental measurements, including MW, have reached a level of precision that tests the theory at the quantum loop level, providing indirect constraints on the hypothetical Higgs boson and other new physics. Improved measurements of MW are driven by new data from Run II of the Fermilab Tevatron ([Formula: see text] collider at [Formula: see text] TeV). We discuss the techniques used for measuring MW at hadron colliders, summarize the measurements from Run I of the Tevatron, and review the state of the art of the Run II analyses, which are based on significantly larger data sets collected with upgraded detectors. We discuss the constraints on the Higgs boson, and conclude with a discussion of the ultimate precision in MW that can be expected from Run II.
Common student misconceptions in exercise physiology and biochemistry
Authors: Morton James P. , Doran Dominic A. , MacLaren Don P. M.
Published: June 2008

The present study represents a preliminary investigationdesigned to identify common misconceptions in students' understanding of physiological and biochemical topics within the academic domain of sport and exercise sciences. A specifically designed misconception inventory (consisting of 10 multiple-choice questions) was administered to a cohort of level 1, 2, and 3 undergraduate students enrolled in physiology and biochemistry-related modules of the BSc Sport Science degree at the authors' institute. Of the 10 misconceptions proposed by the authors, 9 misconceptions were confirmed. Of these nine misconceptions, only one misconception appeared to have been alleviated by the current teaching strategy employed during the progression from level 1 to 3 study. The remaining eight misconceptions prevailed throughout the course of the degree program, suggesting that students enter and leave university with the same misconceptions in certain areas of exercise physiology and biochemistry. The possible origins of these misconceptions are discussed, as are potential teaching strategies to prevent and/or remediate them for future years.
Exercise but not diet-induced weight loss decreases skeletal muscle inflammatory gene expression in frail obese elderly persons
Authors: Lambert Charles P. , Wright Nicole R. , Finck Brian N. , Villareal Dennis T.
Published: June 2008

Many obese elderly persons have impaired physical function associated with an increased chronic inflammatory response. We evaluated 12 wk of exercise (aerobic and resistance) or 12 wk of weight loss (∼7% reduction) on skeletal muscle mRNAs for toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), mechanogrowth factor (MGF), TNF-α, and IL-6 in 16 obese (body mass index 38 ± 2 kg/m2) older (69 ± 1 yr) physically frail individuals. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were obtained at 0 and 12 wk and analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Body weight decreased (−7.5 ± 1.2 kg, P = 0.001) in the weight loss group but not in the exercise group (−0.3 ± 0.8 kg, P = 0.74). Fat-free mass (FFM) decreased (−2.9 ± 0.6 kg, P = 0.010) in the weight loss group and increased (1.6 ± 0.6 kg, P = 0.03) in the exercise group. Exercise resulted in a 37% decrease in TLR-4 mRNA ( P < 0.05) while weight loss had no significant effect. Additionally, exercise led to a significant (50%) decrease in IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA ( P < 0.05) while weight loss had no effect. Exercise increased MGF mRNA (∼2 fold, P < 0.05), but weight loss had no effect. In conclusion, exercise but not weight loss had a beneficial effect on markers of muscle inflammation and anabolism in frail obese elderly individuals.