bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced satellite cell proliferation with resistance training in elderly men and women
Authors: Mackey A. L. , Esmarck B. , Kadi F. , Koskinen S. O. A. , Kongsgaard M. , Sylvestersen A. , Hansen J. J. , Larsen G. , Kjaer M.
Published: May 2006

In addition to the well‐documented loss of muscle mass and strength associated with aging, there is evidence for the attenuating effects of aging on the number of satellite cells in human skeletal muscle. The aim of this study was to investigate the response of satellite cells in elderly men and women to 12 weeks of resistance training. Biopsies were collected from the m. vastus lateralis of 13 healthy elderly men and 16 healthy elderly women (mean age 76±SD 3 years) before and after the training period. Satellite cells were visualized by immunohistochemical staining of muscle cross‐sections with a monoclonal antibody against neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) and counterstaining with Mayer's hematoxylin. Compared with the pre‐training values, there was a significant increase (P<0.05) in the number of NCAM‐positively stained cells per fiber post‐training in males (from 0.11±0.03 to 0.15±0.06; mean±SD) and females (from 0.11±0.04 to 0.13±0.05). These results suggest that 12 weeks of resistance training is effective in enhancing the satellite cell pool in skeletal muscle in the elderly.
Aquifer vulnerability assessment to heavy metals using ordinal logistic regression
Authors: Twarakavi Navin K.C. , Kaluarachchi Jagath J.
Published: May 2006

A methodology using ordinal logistic regression is proposed to predict the probability of occurrence of heavy metals in ground water. The predicted probabilities are defined with reference to the background concentration and the maximum contaminant level. The model is able to predict the occurrence due to different influencing variables such as the land use, soil hydrologic group (SHG), and surface elevation. The methodology was applied to the Sumas‐Blaine Aquifer located in Washington State to predict the occurrence of five heavy metals. The influencing variables considered were (1) SHG; (2) land use; (3) elevation; (4) clay content; (5) hydraulic conductivity; and (6) well depth. The predicted probabilities were in agreement with the observed probabilities under existing conditions. The results showed that aquifer vulnerability to each heavy metal was related to different sets of influencing variables. However, all heavy metals had a strong influence from land use and SHG. The model results also provided good insight into the influence of various hydrogeochemical factors and land uses on the presence of each heavy metal. A simple economic analysis was proposed and demonstrated to evaluate the cost effects of changing the land use on heavy metal occurrence.
Single leg balance test to identify risk of ankle sprains
Authors: Trojian T H , McKeag D B
Published: May 2006

Background:Ankle sprains are a common and potentially disabling injury. Successful prediction of susceptibility to ankle sprain injury with a simple test could allow ankle sprain prevention protocols to be initiated and help prevent disability in the athletic population.

Objective:To investigate the ability of the single leg balance (SLB) test, carried out at preseason physical examination, to predict an ankle sprain during the autumn sports season.

Design:Prospective cohort study

Setting:High school varsity athletics and intercollegiate athletics.

Main outcome measure:Ankle sprains in athletes with positive SLB tests.

Results:The association between a positive SLB test and future ankle sprains was significant. Controlling for confounding variables, the relative risk for an ankle sprain with a positive SLB test was 2.54 (95% confidence interval, 1.02 to 6.03). Athletes with a positive SLB test who did not tape their ankles had an increased likelihood of developing ankle sprains. The relative risk for ankle sprain for a positive SLB test and negative taping was 8.82 (1.07 to 72.70). A history of previous ankle injury was not associated with future ankle sprains in this study. The κ value for interrater reliability for the SLB test was 0.898 (p<0.001).

Conclusions:An association was demonstrated between a positive SLB test and ankle sprain. In athletes with a positive SLB test, not taping the ankle imposed an increased risk of sprain. The SLB test is a reliable and valid test for predicting ankle sprains.
Biphasic regulation by bile acids of dermal fibroblast proliferation through regulation of cAMP production and COX-2 expression level
Authors: Meng Jian Ping , Ceryak Susan , Aratsu Zaheer , Jones Loren , Epstein Lauren , Bouscarel Bernard
Published: May 2006

We have previously reported that the bile acids chenodeoxycholate (CDCA) and ursodeoxycholate (UDCA) decreased PGE1-induced cAMP production in a time- and dose-dependent manner not only in hepatocytes but also in nonhepatic cells, including dermal fibroblasts. In the present study, we investigated the physiological relevance of this cAMP modulatory action of bile acids. PGE1 induced cAMP production in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Moreover, PGE1 (1 μM), forskolin (1–10 μM), and the membrane-permeable cAMP analog CPT-cAMP (0.1–10 μM) decreased dermal fibroblast proliferation in a dose-dependent manner with a maximum inhibition of ∼80%. CDCA alone had no significant effect on cell proliferation at a concentration up to 25 μM. However, CDCA significantly reduced PGE1-induced cAMP production by 80–90% with an EC50 of ∼20 μM. Furthermore, at concentrations ≤25 μM, CDCA significantly attenuated the PGE-1-induced decreased cell proliferation. However, at concentrations of 50 μM and above, while still able to almost completely inhibit PGE-1-induced cAMP production, CDCA, at least in part through an increased cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression level and PGE2 synthesis, produced a direct and significant decrease in cell proliferation. Indeed, the CDCA effect was partially blocked by ∼50–70% by both indomethacin and dexamethasone. In addition, overexpression of COX-2 cDNA wild type resulted in an increased efficacy of CDCA to block cell proliferation. The effects of CDCA on both cAMP production and cell proliferation were similar to those of UDCA and under the same conditions cholate had no effect. Results of the present study underline pathophysiological consequences of cholestatic hepatobiliary disorders, in which cells outside of the enterohepatic circulation can be exposed to elevated bile acid concentrations. Under these conditions, low bile acid concentrations can attenuate the negative hormonal control on cell proliferation, resulting in the stimulation of cell growth, while at high concentrations these bile acids provide for a profound and prolonged inhibition of cell proliferation.
Role of calcium channels in carboxyl-terminal parathyroid hormone receptor signaling
Authors: Selim A. A. , Mahon M. , Juppner H. , Bringhurst F. R. , Divieti P.
Published: May 2006

Parathyroid hormone (PTH), an 84-amino acid polypeptide, is a major systemic regulator of calcium homeostasis that activates PTH/PTHrP receptors (PTH1Rs) on target cells. Carboxyl fragments of PTH (CPTH), secreted by the parathyroids or generated by PTH proteolysis in the liver, circulate in blood at concentrations much higher than intact PTH-(1–84) but cannot activate PTH1Rs. Receptors specific for CPTH fragments (CPTHRs), distinct from PTH1Rs, are expressed by bone cells, especially osteocytes. Activation of CPTHRs was previously reported to modify intracellular calcium within chondrocytes. To further investigate the mechanism of action of CPTHRs in osteocytes, cytosolic free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) was measured in the PTH1R-null osteocytic cell line OC59, which expresses abundant CPTHRs but no PTH1Rs. [Ca2+]i was assessed by single-cell ratiometric microfluorimetry in fura-2-loaded OC59 cells. A rapid and transient increase in [Ca2+]i was observed in OC59 cells in response to the CPTH fragment hPTH-(53–84) (250 nM). No [Ca2+]i signal was observed in COS-7 cells, in which CPTHR binding also cannot be detected. Neither hPTH-(1–34) nor a mutant CPTH analog, [Ala55–57]hPTH-(53–84), that does not to bind to CPTHRs, increased [Ca2+]i in OC59 cells. The [Ca2+]i response to hPTH-(53–84) required the presence of extracellular calcium and was blocked by inhibitors of voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs), including nifedipine (100 nM), ω-agatoxin IVA (10 nM), and ω-conotoxin GVIA (100 nM). We conclude that activation of CPTHRs in OC59 osteocytic cells leads to a rapid increase in influx of extracellular calcium, most likely through the opening of VDCCs.
Audio-Visual Multisensory Integration in Superior Parietal Lobule Revealed by Human Intracranial Recordings
Authors: Molholm Sophie , Sehatpour Pejman , Mehta Ashesh D. , Shpaner Marina , Gomez-Ramirez Manuel , Ortigue Stephanie , Dyke Jonathan P. , Schwartz Theodore H. , Foxe John J.
Published: May 2006

Intracranial recordings from three human subjects provide the first direct electrophysiological evidence for audio-visual multisensory processing in the human superior parietal lobule (SPL). Auditory and visual sensory inputs project to the same highly localized region of the parietal cortex with auditory inputs arriving considerably earlier (30 ms) than visual inputs (75 ms). Multisensory integration processes in this region were assessed by comparing the response to simultaneous audio-visual stimulation with the algebraic sum of responses to the constituent auditory and visual unisensory stimulus conditions. Significant integration effects were seen with almost identical morphology across the three subjects, beginning between 120 and 160 ms. These results are discussed in the context of the role of SPL in supramodal spatial attention and sensory-motor transformations.
Structure and Visualization of High-Dimensional Conductance Spaces
Authors: Taylor Adam L. , Hickey Timothy J. , Prinz Astrid A. , Marder Eve
Published: May 2006

Neurons, and realistic models of neurons, typically express several different types of voltage-gated conductances. These conductances are subject to continual regulation. Therefore it is essential to understand how changes in the conductances of a neuron affect its intrinsic properties, such as burst period or delay to firing after inhibition of a particular duration and magnitude. Even in model neurons, it can be difficult to visualize how the intrinsic properties vary as a function of their underlying maximal conductances. We used a technique, called clutter-based dimension reordering (CBDR), which enabled us to visualize intrinsic properties in high-dimensional conductance spaces. We applied CBDR to a family of models with eight different types of voltage- and calcium-dependent channels. CBDR yields images that reveal structure in the underlying conductance space. CBDR can also be used to visualize the results of other types of analysis. As examples, we use CBDR to visualize the results of a connected-components analysis, and to visually evaluate the results of a separating-hyperplane (i.e., linear classifier) analysis. We believe that CBDR will be a useful tool for visualizing the conductance spaces of neuronal models in many systems.
Impaired Motor Function in Mice With Cell-Specific Knockout of Sodium ChannelScn8a(NaV1.6) in Cerebellar Purkinje Neurons and Granule Cells
Authors: Levin Stephen I. , Khaliq Zayd M. , Aman Teresa K. , Grieco Tina M. , Kearney Jennifer A. , Raman Indira M. , Meisler Miriam H.
Published: May 2006

The Scn8a gene encodes the voltage-gated Na channel α subunit NaV1.6, which is widely expressed throughout the nervous system. Global null mutations that eliminate Scn8a in all cells result in severe motor dysfunction and premature death, precluding analysis of the physiological role of NaV1.6 in different neuronal types. To test the effect of cerebellar NaV1.6 on motor coordination in mice, we used the Cre-lox system to eliminate Scn8a expression exclusively in Purkinje neurons (Purkinje KO) and/or granule neurons (granule KO). Whereas granule KO mice had only minor behavioral defects, adult Purkinje KO mice exhibited ataxia, tremor, and impaired coordination. These disorders were exacerbated in double mutants lacking Scn8a in both Purkinje and granule cells (double KO). In Purkinje cells isolated from adult Purkinje KO and double KO but not granule KO mice, the ratio of resurgent-to-transient tetrodotoxin- (TTX)-sensitive Na current amplitudes decreased from ∼15 to ∼5%. In cerebellar slices, Purkinje cell spontaneous and maximal firing rates were reduced 10-fold and twofold relative to control in Purkinje KO and double KO but not granule KO mice. Additionally, short-term plasticity of high-frequency parallel fiber EPSCs was altered relative to control in Purkinje KO and double KO but not granule KO mice. These data suggest that the specialized kinetics of Purkinje Na channels depend directly on Scn8a expression. The loss of these channels leads to a decrease in Purkinje cell firing rates as well as a modification of the synaptic properties of afferent parallel fibers, with the ultimate consequence of disrupting motor behavior.
Role for the Subthreshold Currents ILeak and IH in the Homeostatic Control of Excitability in Neocortical Somatostatin-Positive Inhibitory Neurons
Authors: Gibson Jay R. , Bartley Aundrea F. , Huber Kimberly M.
Published: May 2006

Cortical circuitry reconfigures in response to chronic (1–3 days) changes in activity levels. To understand this process, we must know the role played by inhibitory neurons because they crucially influence network properties by controlling action potential generation and synaptic integration. Using pharmacological blockade of activity in neocortical organotypic slice cultures, we examined the activity-dependent regulation of membrane excitability in a specific inhibitory neuron subtype: the somatostatin-positive (SOM+) neuron. Chronic action potential blockade (TTX, 2.5 days) resulted in increased excitability in SOM+ neurons. This result is consistent with a homeostatic process to maintain the average firing rate of SOM+ neurons at a particular level. Excitability changes were not ascribed to changing cell size or alterations in voltage-dependent sodium current. Instead, the excitability increase was largely the result of a decrease in the density of two subthreshold currents: a passive leak current ( ILeak) and H-current ( IH). The downregulation of these currents increased excitability mostly through a decrease in membrane input conductance. The coadaptation of ILeak and IH enabled a change in input conductance while helping to preserve membrane potential. Evidence indicated that ILeak was probably mainly mediated by K+. At earlier culture ages, this adaptation was superimposed on developmental changes, whereas at older ages, the same types of induced alterations occurred but with no developmental component. Together with other studies, these data indicate that both inhibitory and excitatory neurons increase membrane excitability with chronic reduction in activity, but through different mechanisms.
Methylphenidate Enhances Noradrenergic Transmission and Suppresses Mid- and Long-Latency Sensory Responses in the Primary Somatosensory Cortex of Awake Rats
Authors: Drouin Candice , Page Michelle , Waterhouse Barry
Published: May 2006

Noradrenergic neurons send widespread projections to sensory networks throughout the brain and regulate sensory processing via norepinephrine (NE) release. As a catecholamine reuptake blocker, methylphenidate (MPH) is likely to interact with noradrenergic transmission and NE modulatory action on sensory systems. To characterize the neurochemical actions of MPH in the primary sensory cortex of freely behaving rats and their consequences on sensory processing, we measured extracellular NE levels in the primary somatosensory (SI) cortex by microdialysis and recorded basal and sensory-evoked discharge of infragranular SI cortical neurons, before and after intraperitoneal administrations of saline or MPH (1 and 5 mg/kg). Both doses of MPH significantly increased NE levels in the SI cortex (+64 and +101%, respectively). In most neurons, stimulation of the whisker-pad induced a triphasic response, consisting of a short-latency excitation [4.7 ± 0.2 (SE) ms] followed by a postexcitatory inhibition (36 ± 1.5 ms) and a long-latency excitation (105 ± 2.6 ms). Under control conditions, the behavioral state of the animal was correlated with the magnitude of the short-latency excitation but not with other aspects of the basal and sensory-evoked discharge of SI cortical neurons. At 5 mg/kg, MPH significantly increased locomotor activity and induced a significant suppression of the short-latency excitation, which probably resulted from the MPH-induced change in behavior. In addition, both doses of MPH suppressed the postexcitatory inhibition and the long-latency excitation evoked by the stimulation of the whisker pad. These effects did not seem to result from the locomotor effect of MPH and probably involved MPH-induced enhancement of noradrenergic transmission.
Single-Channel L-Type Ca2+ Currents in Chicken Embryo Semicircular Canal Type I and Type II Hair Cells
Authors: Zampini Valeria , Valli Paolo , Zucca Giampiero , Masetto Sergio
Published: May 2006

Few data are available concerning single Ca channel properties in inner ear hair cells and particularly none in vestibular type I hair cells. By using the cell-attached configuration of the patch-clamp technique in combination with the semicircular canal crista slice preparation, we determined the elementary properties of voltage-dependent Ca channels in chicken embryo type I and type II hair cells. The pipette solutions included Bay K 8644. With 70 mM Ba2+ in the patch pipette, Ca channel activity appeared as very brief openings at −60 mV. Ca channel properties were found to be similar in type I and type II hair cells; therefore data were pooled. The mean inward current amplitude was −1.3 ± 0.1 (SD) pA at − 30 mV ( n = 16). The average slope conductance was 21 pS ( n = 20). With 5 mM Ba2+ in the patch pipette, very brief openings were already detectable at −80 mV. The mean inward current amplitude was −0.7 ± 0.2 pA at −40 mV ( n = 9). The average slope conductance was 11 pS ( n = 9). The mean open time and the open probability increased significantly with depolarization. Ca channel activity was still present and unaffected when ω-agatoxin IVA (2 μM) and ω-conotoxin GVIA (3.2 μM) were added to the pipette solution. Our results show that types I and II hair cells express L-type Ca channels with similar properties. Moreover, they suggest that in vivo Ca2+ influx might occur at membrane voltages more negative than −60 mV.
Perceptions of Professionals about the Nature of Rehabilitation Relationships with Persons with Mental Illness and the Dilemmas and Conflicts that Characterize these Relationships
Authors: Finaret Andrea Eini , Shor Ron
Published: May 2006

The development of rehabilitation relationships with persons with mental illness is a topic that has had limited attention in psychiatric rehabilitation literature. This research presents findings from in-depth interviews that were conducted with 10 psychiatric rehabilitation workers in Israel. Six of them were social workers, two were psychologists, and two were occupational therapists. Eight central components that characterize the development of rehabilitation relationships have been highlighted. These components indicate that the rehabilitation relationship is unconventional and differs in many ways from traditional therapeutic relationships. In addition, the challenge of coping with the conflicts and dilemmas which professionals encounter during the implementation of these components has been emphasized. The findings illuminate the need to develop a knowledge base that would prepare rehabilitation workers to cope with these difficulties and provide suitable professional training and supervision.
Strengthening Social Worker-Client Relationships in Child Protective Services
Authors: Maiter Sarah , Palmer Sally , Manji Shehenaz
Published: May 2006

Few researchers have set out to explore parents’ feelings about their experiences with Child Protective Services (CPS) particularly as they relate to the relationship between workers and parents who come to the attention of CPS. Yet the worker-client relationship is a central aspect of social work intervention, contributing to positive case resolutions. Understanding aspects of this relationship can contribute to improved CPS. This article reports findings from a qualitative study that used in-depth interviews to explore the experiences of 61 parents who had involvement with CPS.1 Parents appreciated workers who were caring, genuine, empathetic, exceptionally helpful, non-judgmental, and accepting. Negative qualities of workers identified by parents were being judgmental, cold and uncaring, poor listeners, critical, and insincere.

Child protection interventions can result in greater actual and/or perceived power imbalances between the client and the worker compared to other social work interventions. Our findings, however, suggest that a positive alliance can be achieved within the context of the adversarial and complex nature of CPS. Possible ways to maintain relationships or rebuild ‘ruptured’ relationships are suggested.
Dementia and Residential Placement
Authors: Chene Bruno
Published: May 2006

The purpose of this research is to discover dementia carers’ lived experience when they have relinquished full-time care. It is assumed that once family members make a decision to relinquish full-time care, the stresses of day-to-day care-giving will be eliminated.

Twenty primary caregivers from Aged Care/Aged Psychiatry Units in Melbourne were recruited through a consecutive sampling procedure to participate in the study.

The Stress Process Model was utilized to explain why dementia caregiving is so stressful. A mixed-method research approach that consisted of qualitative and quantitative methodologies was utilized.

In-depth interviews with caregivers revealed the difficult and stressful aspects of dementia caregiving while waiting for residential care. A majority of dementia care-givers had experienced both complex and traumatic admissions to the Aged/Psychiatric Inpatient Units. Carers felt alone in making the ‘most difficult’ decision to relinquish full-time care, and these carers experienced loss, sadness and resignation after having made this decision.

Carers of Non-English Speaking Background had a compromised life satisfaction and poor psychological health. One-half of all caregivers who participated in the study were seen to be at risk of depression that would warrant professional intervention. Results that have not previously been reported in the dementia caregiving literature were the compromised life satisfaction and poor psychological health of carers from Non-English Speaking Background.

The study concludes that social workers and other professionals need to become aware of the consequences of placement so that increased support can be offered to dementia caregivers during this difficult phase of caregiving. The practice implications include the identification of at risk carer groups and the need for appropriate supports for dementia caregivers at all stages of the caring process.
Using Data Triangulation of Mother and Daughter Interviews to Enhance Research about Families
Authors: Sands Roberta G. , Roer-Strier Dorit
Published: May 2006

Qualitative researchers use the term triangulation to describe the use of multiple strategies to study the same phenomenon. Although it is endorsed in social work research textbooks and contested in the literature, qualitative social work researchers are left on their own to determine how to ‘do’ triangulation. This article discusses triangulation, including recent debates around the concept. It describes two methods of data triangulation and illustrates them with examples from the study of mothers and daughters coping with a daughter’s religious intensification. From the first method, a comparative analysis of mother-daughter dyads, the authors identify and provide examples of five types of triangulated data: (1) same story, same meaning; (2) same story, different interpretations; (3) missing pieces; (4) unique information; and (5) illuminating. The second method, triangulation within groups and between groups, makes visible perspectives that are common and distinct to mothers and daughters as members of different cultural groups. The article discusses the advantages of systematic data triangulation for qualitative research and draws implications for social work research and practice.
Ethnobotanical investigations among tribes in Madurai District of Tamil Nadu (India)
Authors: Ignacimuthu S , Ayyanar M , Sivaraman K Sankara
Published: May 2006

Background

An ethnobotanical survey was carried out to collect information on the use of medicinal plants in Southern Western Ghats of India (Madurai district, Tamil Nadu). Information presented in this paper was gathered from the paliyar tribes using an integrated approach of botanical collections, group discussions and interviews with questionnaires in the years 1998 – 1999. The informants interviewed were 12 among whom 4 were tribal practitioners.

Results

A total of 60 ethnomedicinal plant species distributed in 32 families are documented in this study. The medicinal plants used by paliyars are listed with Latin name, family, local name, parts used, mode of preparation and medicinal uses. Generally, fresh part of the plant was used for the preparation of medicine.

Conclusion

We observed that the documented ethnomedicinal plants were mostly used to cure skin diseases, poison bites, stomachache and nervous disorders. The results of this study showed that these tribal people still depend on medicinal plants in Madurai district forest areas.
Physical exercises in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis at risk of brace treatment – SOSORT consensus paper 2005
Authors: Weiss Hans-Rudolf , Negrini Stefano , Hawes Martha C , Rigo Manuel , Kotwicki Tomasz , Grivas Theodoros B , Maruyama Toru ,   members of the SOSORT
Published: May 2006

Background

Based on a recognized need for research to examine the premise that nonsurgical approaches can be used effectively to treat signs and symptoms of scoliosis, a scientific society on scoliosis orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment (SOSORT) was established in Barcelona in 2004. SOSORT has a primary goal of implementing multidisciplinary research to develop quantitative, objective data to address the role of conservative therapies in the treatment of scoliosis. This international working group of clinicians and scientists specializing in treatment of scoliosis met in Milan, Italy in January 2005.

Methods

As a baseline for developing a consensus for language and goals for proposed multicenter clinical studies, we developed questionnaires to examine current beliefs, before and after the meeting, regarding (1) the aims of physical exercises; (2) standards of treatment; and (3) the impact of such treatment performed by specialists in the field.

Results

The responses to the questionnaires show that, in principle, specialists in scoliosis physiotherapy do not disagree and that several features can be regarded, currently, as standard features in the rehabilitation of scoliosis patients. These features include autocorrection in 3D, training in ADL, stabilizing the corrected posture, and patient education.
dILA neurons in the dorsal spinal cord are the product of terminal and non-terminal asymmetric progenitor cell divisions, and require Mash1 for their development
Authors: Wildner Hendrik , Müller Thomas , Cho Seo-Hee , Bröhl Dominique , Cepko Constance L. , Guillemot Francois , Birchmeier Carmen
Published: May 2006

dILA and dILB neurons comprise the major neuronal subtypes generated in the dorsal spinal cord, and arise in a salt-and-pepper pattern from a broad progenitor domain that expresses the bHLH factor Mash1. In this domain,Mash1-positive and Mash1-negative cells intermingle. Using a Mash1GFP allele in mice, we show here that Mash1+ progenitors give rise to dILA and dILB neurons. Using retroviral tracing in the chick, we demonstrate that a single progenitor can give rise to a dILA and a dILB neuron, and that dILA neurons are the product of asymmetric progenitor cell divisions. In Mash1-null mutant mice, the development of dILA, but not of dILB neurons is impaired. We provide evidence that a dual function of Mash1 in neuronal differentiation and specification accounts for the observed changes in the mutant mice. Our data allow us to assign to Mash1 a function in asymmetric cell divisions, and indicate that the factor coordinates cell cycle exit and specification in the one daughter that gives rise to a dILA neuron.
Specification of ectoderm restricts the size of the animal plate and patterns neurogenesis in sea urchin embryos
Authors: Yaguchi Shunsuke , Yaguchi Junko , Burke Robert D.
Published: May 2006

The animal plate of the sea urchin embryo becomes the apical organ, a sensory structure of the larva. In the absence of vegetal signaling, an expanded and unpatterned apical organ forms. To investigate the signaling that restricts the size of the animal plate and patterns neurogenesis, we have expressed molecules that regulate specification of ectoderm in embryos and chimeras. Enhancing oral ectoderm suppresses serotonergic neuron differentiation, whereas enhancing aboral or ciliary band ectoderm increases differentiation of serotonergic neurons. In embryos in which vegetal signaling is blocked, Nodal expression does not reduce the size of the thickened animal plate; however, almost no neurons form. Expression of BMP in the absence of vegetal signaling also does not restrict the size of the animal plate, but abundant serotonergic neurons form. In chimeras in which vegetal signaling is blocked in the entire embryo, and one half of the embryo expresses Nodal,serotonergic neuron formation is suppressed in both halves. In similar chimeras in which vegetal signaling is blocked and one half of the embryo expresses Goosecoid (Gsc), serotonergic neurons form only in the half of the embryo not expressing Gsc. We propose that neurogenesis is specified by a maternal program that is restricted to the animal pole by signaling that is dependent on nuclearization of β-catenin and specifies ciliary band ectoderm. Subsequently, neurogenesis in the animal plate is patterned by suppression of serotonergic neuron formation by Nodal. Like other metazoans,echinoderms appear to have a phase of neural development during which the specification of ectoderm restricts and patterns neurogenesis.
Photolysis of Permethylated Polygermanes
Authors: Mochida Kunio , Chiba Hiromi , Okano Mitsutoshi
Published: May 2006

Photolysis of permethylated linear polygermanes, Me(Me2Ge)nMe (n = 3–6), proceeds by both the contraction of the chain with loss of dimethylgermylene and the homolytic scission of germanium-germanium bond.
Synthesis and Properties of a Bis(benzoquino)-o-tropoquinocyclopropane Derivative. A Novel [3]Radialene Involving a Seven-membered Ring System
Authors: Takahashi Kazuko , Ogiyama Masashi
Published: May 2006

The title [3]radialene derivative, 1,2-bis(3,5-di-t-butyl-4-oxo-2,5-cyclohexadien-1-ylidene)-3-(dibenzo[d,f]-1,3-dioxo-4,6-cycloheptadien-2-ylidene)cyclopropane has been synthesized, and its spectroscopic properties and redox reactions have been investigated. The powerful electron accepting ability of this compound is ascribed to the high electron affinity of the o-tropoquinone methide residue.
Electrochemical Reduction of CO2 to CO at Ni Electrodes Modified with Cd
Authors: Murata Akira , Hori Yoshio
Published: May 2006

CO2, not reduced practically at Ni electrodes, was effectively reduced at Ni modified with Cd in aqueous solution, studied by in-situ electrodeposition method. Hydrogen formation is greatly suppressed by deposition of Cd, CO formation becoming predominant. HCOO−, produced favorably at Cd electrodes, is not appreciably yielded.
Trimethyl Ester of Coenzyme PQQ in Redox Reactions with Transition Metals. An Efficient System for the Palladium-Catalyzed Ring-Opening Reaction of α,β-Epoxysilane
Authors: Hirao Toshikazu , Murakami Toshihide , Ohno Mitsuru , Ohshiro Yoshiki
Published: May 2006

An efficient catalytic system for the palladium(II)-induced regioselective ringopening oxidation reaction of α,β,-epoxysilane was achieved by use of trimethyl ester of coenzyme PQQ under molecular oxygen. The redox cycle of the ester was performed with two different oxidation states of vanadium compounds, VCl2 and VO(OEt)3.
Structure of 2,11-Dioxa[3.3]orthocyclophane
Authors: Okajima Toshiya , Wang Zhen-He , Fukazawa Yoshimasa
Published: May 2006

Conformational analysis of the title compound using an X-ray diffraction, molecular mechanics and ring current calculations is presented. The chair type structure found in its crystalline state is almost identical to that of its dithia analogue. However, the structure in solution is quite different from its crystalline structure.
Preparation of YBa2Cu3O7−x and Bi2Sr2CaCu2Oy Films by Electrodeposition Technique
Authors: Minoura Hideki , Naruto Keiji , Takano Hiroyuki , Haseo Eiji , Sugiura Takashi , Ueno Yasusada , Endo Tamio
Published: May 2006

The high-temperature superconducting YBa2Cu3O7−x and Bi2Sr2CaCu2Oy phases have been prepared by the electrodeposition of the corresponding precursors from the baths containing salts of the constituent metals in dimethylsulfoxide–H2O mixture solvent followed by a suitable heat treatment. The use of this solvent was found to contribute to a significant improvement in the deposition process.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 1,2-trans-Ribofuranosides from 1-Hydroxy Sugars by the Use of [1,2-Benzenediolato(2−)-O,O′]oxotitanium and Trifluoromethanesulfonic Anhydride
Authors: Suda Shinji , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: May 2006

A convenient method for stereoselective synthesis of 1,2-trans-ribofuranosides directly from 1-hydroxy sugars and alcohols or trimethylsilylated nucleophiles by the use of [1,2-benzenediolato(2−)-O,O′]oxotitanium and trifluoromethanesulfonic anhydride is described.
A Chelate Ring Structure of a Platinum(II) Diborate
Authors: Miyamoto Takeshi , Ichida Hikaru
Published: May 2006

A 1R,2R-diaminocyclohexaneplatinum(II) complex of B2O5H22−, (C6H14N2)Pt(B2O5H2)·2H2O, is synthesized by reacting (C6H14N2)Pt(OH)2 with boric acid in the presence of dipotassium tetraborate tetrahydrate in aqueous solution. X -ray structural analysis revealed that the B2O5H22− anion and the platinum(II) cation form a six-membered chelate.
Solid-state Photoracemization of Optically Active Alkyl Cobaloxime Complexes. Solid-state Specific Effect of Axial Ligand
Authors: Ohgo Yoshiaki , Arai Yoshifusa , Takeuchi Seiji
Published: May 2006

Solid-state photoracemization of chiral alkyl cobaloxime complexes ocurred with the solid-state specific effect of the axial ligands (the first example of solid state photoracemization). The mechanism is also discussed.
A Facile Preparation of Aryl Triflates. Decomposition of Arenediazonium Tetrafluoroborate Salts in Trifluoromethanesulfonic Acid
Authors: Yoneda Norihiko , Fukuhara Tsuyoshi , Mizokami Takao , Suzuki Akira
Published: May 2006

The thermal or photochemical decomposition of arenediazonium tetrafluoroborate salts in trifluoromethanesulfonic acid, with or without organic bases such as pyridine, provides aryl triflates in high yields.
Stereochemistry of Methyl 2-Hydroxysterculate from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Authors: Nakatani Munehiro , Hase Tsunao
Published: May 2006

The absolute configuration of the asymmetric carbon (C-2) of methyl 2-hydroxysterculate was determined as R by applying the dibenzoate chirality method.
Syntheses of New Isomers from p-t-Butylcalix[4]arene. Strategies for Regioselective Alkylation on the Lower Rim
Authors: Iwamoto Koji , Yanagi Akihiro , Araki Koji , Shinkai Seiji
Published: May 2006

By using a protection-deprotection technique and metal template effects, a number of new regio- and conformational isomers were synthesized.
Porphinatoiron-Catalyzed Oxygenation of Styrene in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Kano Koji , Takagi Hiroyuki , Takeuchi Masayuki , Hashimoto Shizunobu , Yoshida Zen-ichi
Published: May 2006

A quantitative oxygenation of styrene to 1-phenylethanol is realized in a reaction catalyzed by an iron complex of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(1-methyl-4- pyridinio)porphine tetrachloride (FeTMPyP) in water at pH 12 containing NaBH4. A plausible mechanism involving a styrene carbanion stabilized by Fe(III)TMPyP as an intermediate is presented.
Synthesis and Reversible Stereomutation of Optically Active Poly[(S)-diphenyl(1-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)methyl methacrylate]
Authors: Okamoto Yoshio , Nakano Tamaki , Ono Etsuko , Hatada Koichi
Published: May 2006

Anionic polymerization of (+)-(S)-diphenyl(1-methylpyrrolidin-2-yl)methyl methacrylate gave an optically active polymer of helical conformation of single screw-sense. The polymer exhibited a reversible helix-helix transition in a solution of methanol containing an acid.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Novel Tetranuclear Nickel(II) Complex with Hpahqs (Hpahqs: 7-[(3,5-Dichloro-2-pyridyl)azo]-8-hydroxyquinoline-5-sulfonate)
Authors: Huang Hu , Kai Fumiaki , Asai Yoshifumi , Hirohata Masaaki , Nakamura Masaaki
Published: May 2006

A novel complex [Ni4(pahqs)4(H2O)4]·20H2O was synthesized and characterized by X-ray crystallography. Except one N atom in each azo group, all the other donor atoms in the ligand were fully used in coordination to Ni(II), and the four Ni(II) were bridged by O atoms in the hydroxyquinoline moieties.
Synthesis and Characterization of 2-Ferrocenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-2-imidazolin-l-oxyl 3-Oxide and Its CT-Complex with DDQ
Authors: Nakamura Yosuke , Koga Noboru , Iwamura Hiizu
Published: May 2006

A ferrocene derivative carrying a nitronyl-nitroxide radical was synthesized and its CT salt with DDQ was prepared. There are two S = 1/2 spins, ferrocenium ion and nitronyl-nitroxide radical, on the cationic part of the CT-salt. From the temperature dependence of magnetic susceptibility data it is concluded that the interaction between them is antiferromagnetic (2J ≈ −50 cm−1).
Mehr Qualität – oder mehr Kontrolle? Beyond analytical quality control
Authors: Hagemann Peter
Published: May 2006

Thema: Das zentrale Thema ist die Qualität des Befundes, des intendierten Produkts der Labormedizin.

Hintergrund: Qualitätssicherung in der Labormedizin konzentrierte sich bisher ausschliesslich auf den analytischen Bereich. Das ist notwendig, aber nicht hinreichend.

Schlussfolgerungen: Schwachstellen auf dem brain-to-brain loop sind insbesondere die Indikationsstellung und die Präanalytik. Um Befunde von hoher Qualität zu generieren, ist in den erwähnten sowie den weiteren relevanten Bereichen (Begriffe, Messgrößen, Methodik, Analytik, Befund) primär in das Design zu investieren, um anschliessend das erreichte Resultat zu kontrollieren.
Bedeutung von Epikutantest und Lymphozytentransformationstest für die Diagnostik von Typ IV-Sensibilisierungen Stellungnahme des Deutschen Berufsverbandes der Umweltmediziner Significance of the patch test and the lymphocyte transformation test in the diagnostics of type IV sensitization Statement of the German Professional Association for Environmental Medicine
Authors: Bartram Frank , Donate Hans-Peter , E. Müller Kurt , Bückendorf Claus-Hermann , Ohnsorge Peter , Huber Wolfgang , von Baehr Volker
Published: May 2006

Zum Nachweis einer Typ IV-Sensibilisierung auf Allergene und Haptene ist der Epikutantest die am häufigsten verwendete diagnostische Methode. Auch wenn dieser Test in der Hand erfahrener Untersucher in vielen Fällen für die Allergenidentifizierung bei Kontaktallergien sehr hilfreich ist, werden vom Kliniker dafür auch standardisierte in vitro-Methoden gefordert, ganz besonders für die Testung potentiell sensibilisierender toxischer oder karzinogener Substanzen. Die Entwicklungen der Zellkulturtechniken in den letzten Jahren haben dazu geführt, dass die heute in spezialisierten Laboratorien durchgeführten zellulären Verfahren, insbesondere bei umweltmedizinisch vorbelasteten Patienten, für den Nachweis von Typ IV-Sensibilisierungen eine sichere Alternative darstellen. Dabei sind die Möglichkeiten, aber auch die Grenzen derartiger in vitro-Verfahren zu berücksichtigen.

Heute stellt der Lymphozytentransformationstest (LTT) eine wichtige Alternative und Ergänzung zum Epikutantest für den Nachweis einer spezifischen Typ IV-Sensibilisierung dar. Vor- und Nachteile beider Verfahren hinsichtlich ihrer diagnostischen Spezifität und Sensitivität sowie die sich daraus ergebenden Schlussfolgerungen für den Einsatz in der Routinediagnostik werden dargestellt.
Solvent extraction separation of zirconium(IV) from succinate media with N-n-octylaniline
Authors: Rajmane M.M. , Sargar B.M. , Mahamuni S.V. , Anuse M.A.
Published: May 2006

The extraction behavior of zirconium(IV) from succinate (0.01 - 0.03 M) medium (25 mL) with 10 mL 3 % N-n-octylaniline in xylene was investigated. The pH range 3.7 - 5.0 was effective for the quantitative extraction of zirconium(IV). Zirconium(IV) was back extracted with 0.5 M HNO3 (3 x 5 mL). The method was free from interferences of a large number of cations and anions. Zirconium(IV) was separated from associated elements in its binary mixture with Mo(VI), Nb(V), Re(VII), La(III), Ti(IV), Th(IV) and Al(III). The proposed method was applied to synthetic mixtures. The results of analysis indicate that trace amounts of zirconium( IV) could be separated effectively from higher amounts of other elements. The method is simple, selective, rapid and eco-friendly.
Determination of silanol end groups in polysiloxanes obtained from dimethyldichlorosilane hydrolysate (DDSH)
Authors: Vuckovic Marija , Govedarica Milutin
Published: May 2006

Dimethyldichlorosilane hydrolysate, DDSH, the linear part of which contains SiOH end groups, can be used in the preparation of difunctionally terminated (any end groups other than SiOH) polysiloxanes via equilibration polymerisations. In such a case, the problem arises: as to whether the obtained functionalised polymers also contain silanol end groups. To the best of our knowledge, the only direct and the most precise analytical procedure to clarify this question is the Karl Fischer titration/determination of SiOH groups. This determination was performed on a model system consisting of trimethylsilyl terminated polysiloxanes, and it was shown that the obtained polymers contained no SiOH groups.
The influence of the oxygen equivalent in a gas-mixture on the structure and toughness of microalloyed steel weldments
Authors: Prokic-Cvetkovic Radica , Milosavljevic Andjelka , Sedmak Aleksandar , Popovic Olivera
Published: May 2006

Testing were carried out on two steels. The first was microalloyed with Nb and second with Ti, Nb and V. The impact toughness of weld metals of these steels was evaluated using an instrumented Charpy pendulum. Five different gas mixtures (Ar, CO2, O2) were used to determine the optimal gas shielded metal arc process for both steels. The oxygen equivalent was used as a representative parameter of a mixture to follow, in particularly, its effect on the microstructure, toughness and crack propagation energy of the weld metal. For these investigated steels, the optimum gas mixture was established (5%CO2, 0.91%O2, balance Ar), which provided the maximum crack propagation energy, due to the microstructure which consisted dominantly of acicular ferrite.
Stochastic differential equations driven by generalized positive noise
Authors: Oberguggenberger Michael , Rajter-Ciric Danijela
Published: May 2006

We consider linear SDEs with the generalized positive noise process standing for the noisy term. Under certain conditions, the solution, a Colombeau generalized stochastic process, is proved to exist. Due to the blowing-up of the variance of the solution, we introduce a "new" positive noise process, a renormalization of the usual one. When we consider the same equation but now with the renormalized positive noise, we obtain a solution in the space of Colombeau generalized stochastic processes with both, the first and the second moment, converging to a finite limit.
A constitutional telomeric translocation showing meiotic instability
Authors: Josifova D.J. , Mazzaschi R. , Ballard T. , Ogilvie C. Mackie , Splitt M.
Published: May 2006

Constitutional telomeric translocations are rare chromosome rearrangements. They are thought to occur as a result of chromosome breakage and subsequent ligation with the telomeric sequence of a different chromosome. Most frequently they occur as de novo events and, depending on the donor chromosome breakpoint, may be associated with an abnormal phenotype. We report a case of an unbalanced translocation involving the long arm of chromosome 15 and the short arm of chromosome 8 [45,XY, der(8)t(8;15)(p23.3;q11.2),‐15], diagnosed prenatally; the father carried an unbalanced translocation of the long arm of chromosome 15 and the short arm of chromosome 2 [45,XY,der(2)t(2;15)(p25.3;q11.2),‐15]. Both translocations were shown to have telomere repeat sequences at the translocation breakpoints. There was no apparent imbalance of euchromatic material in either translocation, and no associated abnormal phenotype. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Array‐based comparative genomic hybridization facilitates identification of breakpoints of a novel der(1)t(1;18)(p36.3;q23)dn in a child presenting with mental retardation
Authors: Lennon P.A. , Cooper M.L. , Curtis M.A. , Lim C. , Ou Z. , Patel A. , Cheung S.W. , Bacino C.A.
Published: May 2006

Monosomy of distal 1p36 represents the most common terminal deletion in humans and results in one of the most frequently diagnosed mental retardation syndromes. This deletion is considered a contiguous gene deletion syndrome, and has been shown to vary in deletion sizes that contribute to the spectrum of phenotypic anomalies seen in patients with monosomy 1p36. We report on an 8‐year‐old female with characteristics of the monosomy 1p36 syndrome who demonstrated a novel der(1)t(1;18)(p36.3;q23). Initial G‐banded karyotype analysis revealed a deleted chromosome 1, with a breakpoint within 1p36.3. Subsequent FISH and array‐based comparative genomic hybridization not only confirmed and partially characterized the deletion of chromosome 1p36.3, but also uncovered distal trisomy for 18q23. In this patient, the duplicated 18q23 is translocated onto the deleted 1p36.3 region, suggesting telomere capture. Molecular characterization of this novel der(1)t(1;18)(p36.3;q23), guided by our clinical array‐comparative genomic hybridization, demonstrated a 3.2 Mb terminal deletion of chromosome 1p36.3 and a 200 kb duplication of 18q23 onto the deleted 1p36.3, presumably stabilizing the deleted chromosome 1. DNA sequence analysis around the breakpoints demonstrated no homology, and therefore this telomere capture of distal 18q is apparently the result of a non‐homologous recombination. Partial trisomy for 18q23 has not been previously reported. The importance of mapping the breakpoints of all balanced and unbalanced translocations found in the clinical laboratory, when phenotypic abnormalities are found, is discussed. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.