bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular subtype distribution and developmental regulation of TRPC channel members in the mouse dorsal root ganglion
Authors: Elg Susanne , Marmigere Frederic , Mattsson Jan P. , Ernfors Patrik
Published: May 2007

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels play essential roles in sensory physiology and their expression in different classes of sensory neurons reflect distinct receptive properties of these neurons. While expression of the TRPV, TRPA, and to a certain degree TRPM classes of channels has been studied in sensory neurons, little is known about the expression and regulation of TRPC channels. In this study we examined the regulation of all TRPC members (TRPC1–C7) throughout embryonic and postnatal development of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and nodose ganglion (NG). In adult mice, mRNAs for all channels were present in the DRG, with TRPC1, 3, and 6 being the most abundant, TRPC2, C4, and C5 at lower levels, and TRPC7 at very low levels. While TRPC2 mRNAs were downregulated from high levels at embryonic (E) day 12 and E14 until adult, TRPC4, C5, and C7 expressions increased from E12 to peak levels at E18. TRPC1, C3, and C6, the most abundant TRPC channel mRNAs, increased progressively from E12 to adult. Expression and regulation of TRPC channels mRNAs in the NG were unexpectedly similar to the DRG. TRPC1 and C2 was expressed in the neurofilament‐200 (NF‐200)‐positive large size subclass of neurons, while TRPC3 mRNAs expression, which stained up to 35% of DRG neurons, was almost exclusively present in nonpeptidergic isolectin B4 (IB4)‐positive small size neurons that were largely TRPV1‐negative. Our results suggest important roles of the TRPC family of channels in sensory physiology of both nociceptive as well as nonnociceptive classes of neurons. J. Comp. Neurol. 503:35–46, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distribution and localization patterns of estrogen receptor‐β and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptors in neurons and glial cells of the female rat substantia nigra: Localization of ERβ and IGF‐1R in substantia nigra
Authors: Quesada Arnulfo , Romeo Horacio E. , Micevych Paul
Published: May 2007

Although several studies have focused on the neuroprotective effects of estrogen (E2) on stroke, there have been tantalizing reports on the potential neuroprotective role of E2 in degenerative neuronal diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's (PD). In animal models of PD, E2 protects the nigrostriatal dopaminergic (DA) system against neurotoxins. However, little is known about the cellular and molecular mechanism(s) involved by which E2 elicits its neuroprotective effects on the nigrostriatal DA system. A preferred mechanism for neuroprotection is the interaction of E2 with specific neuroprotective growth factors and receptors. One such neuroprotective factor/receptor system is insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1). E2 neuroprotective effects in the substantia nigra (SN) DA system have been shown to be dependent on IGF‐1. To determine whether E2 also interacts with the IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) and to determine the cellular localization of estrogen receptor (ER) and IGF‐1R, we compared the distribution of ER and IGF‐1R in the SN. Stereological measurements revealed that 40% of the subpopulation of tyrosine hydroxylase‐immunoreactive (TH‐ir) SN pars compacta (SNpc) DA neurons are immunoreactive for estrogen receptor‐β (ERβ). No immunolabeling for ERα was observed. In situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry studies confirmed the expression of IGF‐1R mRNA and revealed that almost all TH‐ir SNpc DA neurons were immunoreactive for IGF‐1R, respectively. Moreover, one‐third of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP‐ir) cells in the SN were ERβ‐ir, and 67% of GFAP‐ir cells expressed IGF‐1R‐ir. Therefore, the localization of ERβ and IGF‐1R on SNpc DA neurons and astrocytes suggests a modulatory role of E2 on IGF‐1R, and this modulation may affect neuroprotection. J. Comp. Neurol. 503:198–208, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of putative neuroblasts at the base of adult neurogenesis in the olfactory midbrain of the spiny lobster, Panulirus argus
Authors: Schmidt Manfred
Published: May 2007

Continuous neurogenesis persists during adulthood in the olfactory midbrain of decapod crustaceans, including spiny lobsters, Panulirus argus. This encompasses generation of projection and local interneurons, whose somata are in the lateral soma cluster (LC) and medial soma cluster (MC), respectively. Both neuronal types originate from immediate precursors labeled by a single injection of BrdU and located in a small proliferation zone within each cluster. The aim of this study was to identify neuroblasts as a source of the dividing cells by multiple injections of BrdU over 2 days. All animals receiving multiple injections had one or a few ‘extra’ BrdU‐positive nuclei near the proliferation zones, and these nuclei were significantly larger than nuclei of neurons or BrdU‐positive cells in the proliferation zones. Since the defining morphological feature of neuroblasts in preadult neurogenesis in arthropods is being larger than their progeny, these large extra BrdU‐positive nuclei represent “putative adult neuroblasts.” Multiple BrdU‐injections revealed a clump of small cells enclosing the putative adult neuroblasts in LC and MC, and these cells shared morphological characteristics with newly identified putative glial cells in the soma clusters and perivascular cells in the walls of arterioles. These results on P. argus suggest that adult neurogenesis is based on one adult neuroblast per soma cluster, adult neurogenesis appears to be a continuation of embryonic and larval neurogenesis, and the newly identified clumps of cells surrounding the putative adult neuroblasts might provide them with specific microenvironments necessary for their unusual lifelong proliferative and self‐renewal capacity. J. Comp. Neurol. 503:64–84, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sensory and multisensory representations within the cat rostral suprasylvian cortex
Authors: Clemo H. Ruth , Allman Brian L. , Donlan M. Andrew , Meredith M. Alex
Published: May 2007

Because the posterior limb of the rostral suprasylvian sulcus (RSp) of the cat resides in close proximity to representations of the somatosensory, auditory, and visual modalities, the surrounding cortices would be expected to be a region where a high degree of multisensory convergence and integration is found. The present experiments tested this notion by using anatomical and electrophysiological methods. Tracer injections into somatosensory, auditory, and visual cortical areas almost all produced terminal labeling within the RSp, albeit at different locations and in different proportions. Inputs from somatosensory cortices primarily targeted the inner portion of the anterior RSp; inputs from auditory cortices generally filled the outer portion of the middle and posterior RSp; inputs from visual cortices terminated in the inner portion of the posterior RSp. These projections did not have sharp borders but often overlapped one another, thereby providing a substrate for multisensory convergence. Electrophysiological recordings confirmed this anatomical organization as well as identifying the presence of multisensory (bimodal) neurons in the areas of overlap between representations. Curiously, however, the proportion of bimodal neurons was only 24% of the neurons sampled in this region, and the majority of these did not show multisensory interactions when combined‐modality stimuli were presented. In summary, these experiments indicate that the RSp is primarily auditory in nature, but this representation could be further subdivided into an outer sulcal anterior auditory field (sAAF) and an inner field of the rostral suprasylvian sulcus (FRS). J. Comp. Neurol. 503:110–127, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Corticotropin‐releasing hormone neurons in hypertensive patients are activated in the hypothalamus but not in the brainstem
Authors: Goncharuk Valeri D. , Buijs Ruud M. , Swaab Dick F.
Published: May 2007

The corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH)‐expressing neurons were studied in the hypothalamus and brainstem of individuals who suffered from essential hypertension and had died due to acute myocardial infarction or brain hemorrhage. Healthy normotensive individuals who died in accidents made up the control group. In hypertensive patients we found extremely high expression of CRH in all parts of the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (Pa). In addition, CRH neuronal profiles were observed in the caudal hypothalamic area and dorsal parts of the extended amygdala. In the control group, CRH neurons were found only in the Pa and in much smaller numbers than in hypertensive patients. Also, in contrast to the controls, we found in hypertensives a very high number of CRH fibers running from the most rostral part of the Pa to the median eminence and innervating the caudal part of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCh). A quantitative evaluation showed that the area covered by CRH fibers in the SCh of hypertensives was about three times larger than that in the control SCh. Linear regression analysis demonstrated a negative correlation between the area of CRH fibers and the number of vasopressin (VP) or neurotensin (NT) neurons within the SCh. This relationship occurred particularly in hypertensive patients in whose SCh a larger CRH fiber area and a smaller number of VP or NT neurons were observed. We found a few CRH neuronal profiles and fibers in brainstem nuclei that are involved in cardiovascular regulation, but no apparent difference was observed between the control and hypertensive group. J. Comp. Neurol. 503:148–168, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Levels of transient gap junctions between the retinal pigment epithelium and the neuroblastic retina are influenced by catecholamines and correlate with patterns of cell production
Authors: Tibber Marc S. , Becker David , Jeffery Glen
Published: May 2007

Retinal mitosis takes place at the interface between the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the neural retina. Multiple studies have highlighted the essential role that gap junction‐mediated communication plays in the regulation of retinal organogenesis. Here, the localization pattern and function of the gap junction protein connexin 43 were examined in vivo in the rat at the interface between the retina and RPE during the main phases of retinal cell production. Connexin 43 was expressed at this site from E15 onward, and levels were subsequently temporally regulated. When Cx43 protein levels were reduced experimentally, by using antisense oligodeoxynucleotides, mitotic activity in the retina decreased significantly. Conversely, in the hypopigmented eye elevated mitotic levels were associated with a significant increase of connexin 43. Both excess protein levels and elevated mitosis were corrected by the in vivo administration of L‐DOPA (a dopamine precursor and intermediary compound in the melanin synthesis pathway). These findings suggest that connexin 43‐mediated communication between the retina and RPE is essential for the correct pacing of retinal organogenesis. Furthermore, this pathway may be gated by levels of ocular catecholamines. J. Comp. Neurol. 503:128–134, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of the LIM‐homeodomain protein Isl1 in the developing and mature mouse retina
Authors: Elshatory Yasser , Deng Min , Xie Xiaoling , Gan Lin
Published: May 2007

The mammalian retina is comprised of six major neuronal cell types and is subdivided into more morphological and physiological subtypes. The transcriptional machinery underlying these subtype fate choices is largely unknown. The LIM‐homeodomain protein, Isl1, plays an essential role in central nervous system (CNS) differentiation but its relationship to retinal neurogenesis remains unknown. We report here its dynamic spatiotemporal expression in the mouse retina. Among bipolar interneurons, Isl1 expression commences at postnatal day (P)5 and is later restricted to ON‐bipolar cells. The intensity of Isl1 expression is found to segregate the pool of ON‐bipolar cells into rod and ON‐cone bipolar cells with higher expression in rod bipolar cells. As bipolar cell development proceeds from P5–10 the colocalization of Isl1 and the pan‐bipolar cell marker Chx10 reveals the organization of ON‐center bipolar cell nuclei to the upper portion of the inner nuclear layer. Further, whereas Isl1 is predominantly a ganglion cell marker prior to embryonic day (E)15.5, at E15.5 and later its expression in nonganglion cells expands. We demonstrate that these Isl1‐positive, nonganglion cells acquire the expression of amacrine cell markers embryonically, likely representing nascent cholinergic amacrine cells. Taken together, Isl1 is expressed during the maturation of and is later maintained in retinal ganglion cells and subtypes of amacrine and bipolar cells where it may function in the maintenance of these cells into adulthood. J. Comp. Neurol. 503:182–197, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Secondary Metabolites Isolated from an Endophytic Phoma sp. – Absolute Configuration of Tetrahydropyrenophorol Using the Solid‐State TDDFT CD Methodology
Authors: Krohn Karsten , Farooq Umar , Flörke Ulrich , Schulz Barbara , Draeger Siegfried , Pescitelli Gennaro , Salvadori Piero , Antus Sándor , Kurtán Tibor
Published: May 2007

The known macrolide pyrenophorol (synonym helmidiol) (1), the new 2,3,10,11‐tetrahydropyrenophorol (3), and (4S,7R)‐4,7‐dihydroxyoctanoic acid (4), the monomeric acid of the sixteen‐membered cyclic diolide 1, were isolated from an endophytic Phoma sp. The relative configuration of tetrahydropyrenophorol (3) was confirmed by X‐ray single crystal analysis and its absolute configuration determined by the solid‐state TDDFT CD methodology. Compounds 1 and 4 show antifungal activity and the acid 4 is also an algicide. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Voltammetric Determination of 3‐Nitrofluoranthene and 3‐Aminofluoranthene at Boron Doped Diamond Thin‐Film Electrode
Authors: Cizek Karel , Barek Jiri , Fischer Jan , Peckova Karolina , Zima Jiri
Published: May 2007

The voltammetric behavior of 3‐nitrofluoranthene and 3‐aminofluoranthene was investigated in mixed methanol‐water solutions by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) at boron doped diamond thin‐film electrode (BDDE). Optimum conditions have been found for determination of 3‐nitrofluoranthene in the concentration range of 2×10−8–1×10−6 mol L−1, and for determination 3‐aminofluorathnene in the concentration range of 2×10−7–1×10−5 mol L−1, respectively. Limits of determination were 3×10−8 mol L−1 (3‐nitrofluoranthene) and 2×10−7 mol L−1 (3‐aminofluoranthene).
Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with Functionalized Nanoporous Silica Gel as a New Sensor for Determination of Silver Ion
Authors: Javanbakht Mehran , Ganjali Mohammad Reza , Norouzi Parviz , Badiei Alireza , Hasheminasab Abed , Abdouss Majid
Published: May 2007

A new dipyridyl‐functionalized silica gel (DPSG) was synthesized. The potentiometric response of silver ion was investigated at a carbon paste electrode chemically modified with functionalized nanoporous silica gel. The electrodes with a DPSG proportions of 10.1% (w/w), showed very stable potential. Calibration plots with Nernstian slopes for Ag+ were observed, 58.7 (±0.9) mV decade−1, over a wide linear range of concentration (5.0×10−7 to 1.0×10−1 M). The electrode has a detection limit of 1.0×10−7 M. The selectivity coefficients measured by the match potential method in acetate buffer, pH 5.5, were investigated. The electrode has fast response time, high performance, high sensitivity in wide cation activity ranges, and good long term stability (more than 6 months). The method was satisfactory and used to determine the concentration of silver ion in waste waters contaminated by this metal.
DNA Determination in the Presence of Copper in Diluted Alkaline Electrolyte by Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry at the Mercury Film Electrode
Authors: Farias Percio Augusto Mardini , Castro Arnaldo Aguiar , de Luca Rebello Wagener Angela , Junqueira Astrid Altamirano
Published: May 2007

A stripping method for the determination of single‐stranded DNA in presence of copper at the submicromolar concentration levels is described. The method is based on controlled adsorptive accumulation of adenine (from acid‐treated DNA) at thin‐film mercury electrode followed by linear scan voltammetry measurement of the surface species. Optimum experimental conditions were found to be the use of a 5.0×10−3 M NaOH solution, an accumulation potential of −0.40 V and a scan rate of 200 mV s−1. The response of adenine–copper is linear over the concentration range 50–250 ppb. For an accumulation time of 15 minutes, the detection limit was found to be 4 ppb. The more convenient relation to measuring the ssDNA in presence of metals and nitrogenated bases were also investigated. The utility of the method is demonstrated by the presence of adenosine‐triphosphate (ATP) and amino acids.
A Calibration‐Base Method for the Evaluation of the Detection Limit of an Electrochemical Biosensor
Authors: Lavagnini Irma , Antiochia Riccarda , Magno Franco
Published: May 2007

The method based on the confidence limits of a regression straight line is applied to the linear portion of the calibration curve of a biosensor in order to determine the limit of detection. A practical application gives a detection limit of an ethanol biosensor greater than that calculated by using the method of the signal‐to‐noise‐ratio, S/N=3, but the value is more reliable because it accounts for the variability in the response at analyte additions. A simple approximation of the method is also presented.
Voltammetry of Osmium End‐Labeled Oligodeoxynucleotides at Carbon, Mercury, and Gold Electrodes
Authors: Trefulka Mojmír , Ferreyra Nancy , Ostatná Veronika , Fojta Miroslav , Rivas Gustavo , Paleček Emil
Published: May 2007

Voltammetric behavior of oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) 5′‐T40 (GAA)7–3′ end‐labeled with osmium tetroxide,2,2‐bipyridine [Os(VIII)bipy] was compared with Os(VIII)bipy‐base‐ and with Os(VI)bipy‐sugar‐modified thymine ribosides. Cyclic voltammograms of Os(VIII)bipy‐modified ODN at mercury and carbon electrodes were similar but not identical to those of Os(VIII)bipy‐modified thymine riboside. Treatment of the ODN with Os(VI)bipy did not result in the ODN modification, in agreement with the known specificity of the reagent to the sugar cis‐diols. We show that in addition to mercury and carbon electrodes, the gold electrode can be used to detect Os(VIII)bipy‐labeled ODN. Comparison of voltammetric behavior of end‐labeled ODN using three types of electrodes most frequently used in DNA analysis may help to optimize electrochemical DNA sensors.
Electrochemical Detection of 2‐Naphthol at a Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with Tosflex Film
Authors: Tsai Ming‐Chih , Chen Po‐Yu
Published: May 2007

In this study, a Tosflex (a perfluoro‐anion‐exchange membrane) modified glassy carbon electrode has been used to detect 2‐naphthalenol (2‐naphthol) in aqueous solutions in order to demonstrate the electroanalytical application of Tosflex. 2‐naphthol polymerizes upon electrochemical oxidation at a glassy carbon electrode; however, the current related to this oxidation is too small for analytical purpose at low concentration level. A Tosflex polymer modified glassy carbon electrode (TFGCE) was found of having capability to improve the detection limit because 2‐naphthol molecules deprotonated in basic solutions to form 2‐naphtholate anions that were accumulated to TFGCE by the anion‐exchange characteristic of Tosflex. The accumulated 2‐naphtholate anions were determined with the following differential pulse voltammetry. With 3 minutes accumulation at +0.05 V, the dependence of oxidation current versus concentration was linear from 8×10−7 M to 1×10−5 M with a regression coefficient of 0.999 and a detection limit of 2×10−7 M. Unlike many other anion‐exchange polymer modified electrodes, the TFGCE is stable at highly basic condition.
Evaluation of Bayesian models for focused clustering in health data
Authors: Ma Bo , Lawson Andrew B. , Liu Yuan
Published: May 2007

This paper examines the ability of Bayesian hierarchical models to recover evidence of disease risk excess around a fixed location. This location can be a putative source of health hazard, such as an incinerator, mobile phone mast or dump site. While Bayesian models are convenient to use for modeling, it is useful to consider how well these models perform in the true risk scenarios. In what follows, we evaluate the ability of these models to recover the true risk under simulation. It is surprising that the resulting posterior parameters estimates are heavily biased. Using the credible intervals for distance decline parameter to assess ‘coverage or power’ of detecting distance effect, the ‘power’ decreases with increasing correlation in the background population effect. The inclusion of correlated heterogeneity in models does affect the ability of the models to detect the stronger distance decline scenarios. The uncorrelated heterogeneity seems little affect this ability however. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Male gender is associated with greater cerebral hypometabolism in frontotemporal dementia: evidence for sex‐related cognitive reserve
Authors: Perneczky Robert , Diehl‐Schmid Janine , Förstl Hans , Drzezga Alexander , Kurz Alexander
Published: May 2007

Background

Neuropathological studies suggest that the association between neurodegenerative brain damage and clinical symptoms may be stronger in women than in men; therefore women are more likely to express neurodegeneration as clinical dementia. Furthermore, a recent 18F‐FDG PET study explored gender differences in the regional cerebral metabolic rate of glucose (rCMRglc) in patients with Alzheimer's disease and found that, at the same level of severity of cognitive impairment, men showed a significantly greater hypometabolism than women. This suggests that men can compensate more pathology than women.

Objective

To test the hypothesis that cerebral metabolic deficits due to neurodegeneration are more pronounced in men than in women with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), controlling for cognitive impairment.

Methods

Twenty‐nine patients with FTD (20 men, nine women) underwent an extensive clinical examination and 18F‐FDG PET imaging at a university‐based outpatient unit for cognitive disorders. An analysis of covariance (with age, total score of the CERAD neuropsychological battery, and years of school education as co‐variates) was conducted to identify gender differences in glucose metabolism.

Results

Frontal cortical regions were identified where rCMRglc was significantly reduced in men as compared with women. These regions were located in the left middle, superior, and inferior frontal gyri and the right anterior cingulate, and superior frontal gyri (p < 0.001 uncorrected for multiple comparisons).

Conclusion

The same level of severity of cognitive symptoms is associated with a more pronounced functional brain damage in male than in female patients with FTD, suggesting a greater degree of cognitive reserve in men. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of the effect of a life review group program on self‐esteem and life satisfaction in the elderly
Authors: Chiang Kai‐Jo , Lu Ru‐Band , Chu Hsin , Chang Yue‐Cune , Chou Kuei‐Ru
Published: May 2007

Objective

This study was aimed at evaluating whether a Life Review Group Program (LRGP) improved the self‐esteem and life satisfaction in the elderly.

Methods

This randomized, controlled trial consisted of 75 elderly males from a Veterans' Home in Northern Taiwan, 36 of whom were in the experimental group and 39 of whom were in the control group. The subjects in the experimental group participated in an 8‐week LRGP. Data were collected before and after the LRGP and again 1 month after the end of the program.

Results

The study subjects had a mean age of 78.13 years. The generalized estimating equation was used to compare alterations in the self‐esteem and life satisfaction of the elderly before and after the intervention. The alterations in self‐esteem and life satisfaction in the experimental group after the LRGP were significantly improved compared to the control group. One month after the LRGP was completed, the self‐esteem and life satisfaction of the experimental group continued to improve when compared with pre‐intervention levels.

Conclusions

Based on these results, the LRGP can potentially improve the self‐affirmation, confidence, and self‐esteem of the elderly and promote short‐term life satisfaction. The results of this study provide a model for clinical evidence‐based therapy, serving as a reference for related studies and evaluation of health‐promoting programs, as well as improving the health and quality of care of the elderly. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic research into Alzheimer's Disease: a European focus group study on ethical issues
Authors: van der Vorm Anco , Rikkert Marcel Olde , Vernooij‐Dassen Myrra , Dekkers Wim
Published: May 2007

Background

Nowadays, there is an increasing interest in the heritable aspects of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). The ethical implications of this kind of research are also attracting attention. However, relatively few open‐ended qualitative studies have been carried out to study these aspects.

Objective

To explore and analyse ethical issues raised by genetic research into AD.

Methods

A modified focus group technique.

Results

Participants stressed the importance of relatives in genetic research and suggested a family consent procedure. The consent procedure ought to be more uniform within Europe and should allow for variation in the types of research being done. The long‐term results of genetic research into AD are expected to be positive while the short‐term results seem likely to be negative. The perception of AD as a disease could be changed by the results from genetic research into AD, and this could have effects at the individual level (feelings of guilt and responsibility for one's own health).

Conclusions

(1) The role of the family in genetic AD research differs from its role in other biomedical research into AD. The development of a family consent procedure might solve some informed consent problems. (2) Negative social consequences of genetic AD research are expected in the short term, but there are hopes of positive consequences in the long term. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ginkgo biloba is not a smart drug: an updated systematic review of randomised clinical trials testing the nootropic effects of G. biloba extracts in healthy people
Authors: Canter PH , Ernst E.
Published: May 2007

Here, we update our earlier systematic review of 2001, which critically evaluated the data from clinical trials to determine whether Ginkgo biloba enhances cognitive function in healthy subjects. Literatures searches of six computerised databases, updated to January 2007, were made for randomised, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind clinical trials of the effects of standardised Ginkgo biloba (G. biloba) extracts on cognitive function in healthy subjects under the age of 60 years. Trials published in any language were included, and data were extracted independently by the two authors following a standardised protocol.

We include 15 randomised clinical trials of which 7 are single‐dose studies and 8 are longer term studies with treatment periods ranging from 2 days to 13 weeks. Three single dose studies and 4 longer term studies are newly included. Several of the studies have methodological flaws. A number of the acute studies used multiple outcomes and report positive effects on one or more of these at particular time points with particular doses but these findings are either not replicated, or are directly contradicted by other studies. The evidence from longer term studies is largely negative. Of those studies which measured subjective effects, only one of five acute studies and one of six longer term studies reported any significant positive results. Overall, and in line with our previous conclusions, we have found no convincing evidence from randomised clinical trials for a robust positive effect of G. biloba ingestion upon any aspect of cognitive function in healthy young people, after either acute or longer term administration. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coffee price volatility in Ethiopia: effects of market reform programmes
Authors: Gemech Firdu , Struthers John
Published: May 2007

This study presents the results of an empirical investigation into the effects of market reform programmes in Ethiopia and their impact on the volatility of coffee prices. The study covers the period from 1982 to the end of 2001, though its main focus is on the period after the commencement of the reforms in 1992. Using the Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity (GARCH) techniques, we argue that there is evidence that Ethiopia experienced a significant increase in coffee price volatility after the adoption of the market‐oriented reform programmes. This is consistent with much of the literature. The econometric evidence presented in the paper, suggests that the market reform programmes were a significant cause of the increased volatility after 1992. The authors also suggest a number of possible policy responses to the price volatility, including strengthening the role of smallholder producer associations; and the possibility of adopting appropriate risk‐management strategies. However, the institutional and structural characteristics of coffee production in Ethiopia within the global market for coffee may mitigate against the successful implementation of such policies. The fact that Ethiopia is a price‐taker in this market and is therefore prone to external shocks in coffee prices over which it has little control or influence means that the country will continue to be highly vulnerable to the natural cycles that are endemic in the production of such primary commodities as coffee. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding the Performance of Biomaterials through Molecular Modeling: Crossing the Bridge between their Intrinsic Properties and the Surface Adsorption of Proteins
Authors: Raffaini Giuseppina , Ganazzoli Fabio
Published: May 2007

Molecular modeling and computer simulations can yield significant new insight at the atomistic level about the performance of biomaterials in a biological environment. In this paper, we review our approach to a consistent theoretical picture of the bulk and surface properties of biomaterials. The predicted properties do encompass in particular the mechanical behavior and the surface hydration of these materials, and the surface physisorption of proteins, or polypeptides in general. The behavior of nanomaterials such as the carbon allotropes, nanotubes and fullerenes, in a biological environment is also briefly considered.

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Evaluating the In Vitro and In Vivo Efficacy of Nano‐Structured Polymers for Bladder Tissue Replacement Applications
Authors: Pattison Megan , Webster Thomas J. , Leslie Jeffrey , Kaefer Martin , Haberstroh Karen M.
Published: May 2007

Bladder cancers requiring radical cystectomy, along with congenital and acquired disorders which result in obstruction of the bladder, necessitate surgical measures (including augmentation); such diagnoses bring a clinical need for effective bladder replacement implant designs. Many recent approaches for the design of soft tissue replacement materials have relied on the use of synthetic polymeric substances; unfortunately, the optimal soft tissue implant material is yet to be found. This may, in part, be because current polymeric formulations fail to sufficiently biomimic the neighboring bladder tissue. This study took a brand new approach in designing the next generation of tissue‐engineered bladder constructs through the use of nanotechnology, or materials with nanometer (less than 100 nm) surface features. Results provided evidence that nano‐structured polymeric scaffolds (specifically, PLGA and PU) created using chemical etching techniques are capable of enhancing the human bladder smooth muscle cell adhesion, proliferation, and the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. Preliminary in vivo results also speak to the usefulness of such nano‐structured materials. In combination, these findings suggest that nano‐dimensional PLGA and PU scaffolds are promising replacement materials for the human bladder wall.

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Designer Self‐Assembling Peptide Scaffolds for 3‐D Tissue Cell Cultures and Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Gelain Fabrizio , Horii Akihiro , Zhang Shuguang
Published: May 2007

Biomaterial science has made enormous progress in the last few decades. Nonetheless, innovative biomaterials are still urgently needed to providein vitrocell‐culture models that more closely resemble three‐dimensional (3‐D) cell interactions and cyto‐architectures in bodies and tissues. In this review, the recent advances toward this goal through molecular engineering of various designer self‐assembling peptide scaffolds are discussed. These peptide scaffolds can be commercially and custom‐tailor synthesized materials with high purity and may be not only useful for specific 3‐D tissue cell cultures but also for tissue repair and regenerative therapies. Furthermore, these designer self‐assembling peptide scaffolds have recently become powerful tools for regenerative medicine to repair nervous tissue, to stop bleeding in seconds, to repair infarctuated myocardia, as well as being useful medical devices for slow drug release.

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New Photocurable Acrylic/Silsesquioxane Hybrid Optical Materials: Synthesis, Properties, and Patterning
Authors: Su Hung‐Wen , Chen Wen‐Chang , Lee Wen‐Chin , King Jinn‐Shing
Published: May 2007

Synthesis, properties, and patterning of new acrylic/silsesquioxane hybrid materials are reported. PMA‐functionalized PHSSQ was synthesized by hydrosilylation and then formulated with acrylate monomer mixtures to yield the photocurable materials. Experiments suggest that the thermal/mechanical properties of the parent acrylic polymers could be significantly enhanced by incorporating nano‐sized silsesquioxane moieties. The refractive index and optical loss were reduced by increasing the silsesquioxane content. The hybrid materials could be photocured and developed a Y‐shape channel pattern; potential applications include uses in patterned electronic and optoelectronic devices.

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Evaluation of the Degree of Exfoliation in Poly(ε‐caprolactone)/Organoclay Nanocomposites Based on Viscoelastic Relaxation
Authors: Chung Jae Woo , Oh Kwang Sei , Kwak Seung‐Yeop
Published: May 2007

Poly(ε‐caprolactone) nanocomposites, PCLOC25A and PCLOC30B, with organoclays (OCs) having nonpolar and polar organic modifiers, respectively, were prepared by the melt mixing method and additional heat treatment. WXRD analysis revealed that both nanocomposites were exfoliated, irrespective of the OC polarity. However, WXRD failed to show the degree of exfoliation of the nanocomposites, because the d001 peaks disappeared. Thus, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) was carried out to compare the degree of exfoliation of the PCL nanocomposites. From DMA, PCLOC30B showed higher elasticity, storage moduli, viscosity, and activation energy than PCLOC25A, indicating that PCLOC30B had a more exfoliated structure than PCLOC25A. This is due to the polar interaction in PCLOC30B, as verified by the plots of aT versus temperature. Thus, it was confirmed that DMA provides an alternative approach to evaluating the degree of exfoliation of nanocomposites.

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On CLARKSON's Inequalities and Interpolation
Authors: Maligranda Lech , Persson Lars Erik
Published: May 2007

We consider some elementary proofs of local versions of CLARKSON's inequalities and point out the fact that these inequalities can be generalized to hold for a much wider class of parameters. In particular it is easy to generalize our interpolation proof in various ways to higher dimensions. We point out explicitely some examples of such generalizations and we also prove some corresponding global versions. In this elementary way we obtain both new proofs of some previous results of this kind and also some new complements, unifications and further generalizations of these results.
On a Problem of BABUŠKA (Stable Asymptotics of the Solution to the DIRICHLET Problem for Elliptic Equations of Second Order in Domains with Angular Points)
Authors: Maz'ya Vladimir , Rossmann Jürgen
Published: May 2007

We consider the DIRICHLET problem for linear elliptic differential equations with smooth real coefficients in a two‐dimensional domain with an angle point. We find an asymptotic representation of the solution near this point, which is stable under small variations of the angle.
Long‐Time Behaviour of the Weakly Asymmetric Exclusion Process and the BURGERS Equation without Viscosity
Authors: Dittrich P.
Published: May 2007

We investigate macroscopic properties of the onedimensional weakly asymmetric nearest neighbour exclusion process for long times. We show that the particle system can be approximated by the solution of a discrete version of the viscid BURGERS equation, but with random initial datum. In a larger space scale we show the convergence to a deterministic solution of the BURGERS equation without viscosity.
Global Attractivity and ‘Level‐Crossings’ in a Periodic Logistic Integrodifferential Equation
Authors: Gopalsamy K. , He Xue‐Zhong , Wen Lizhi
Published: May 2007

Sufficient conditions are obtained for the existence of a globally attracting positive periodic solution of the logistic integrodifferential equation where a, b are continuous positive periodic functions and K is a nonnegative integrable function defined on {0, ∞). We also derive sufficient conditions for all positive solutions to have “level crossings” about the unique positive periodic solution.
Uniqueness Theorems for CR Functions
Authors: Schmalz Gerd
Published: May 2007

Let M be a CR manifold embedded in ℭs of arbitrary codimension. M is called generic if the complex hull of the tangent space in all points of M is the whole ℭs. M is minimal (in sense of Tumanov) in p ϵ M if there does not exist any CR submanifold of M passing through p with the same CR dimension as M but of smaller dimension. Let M be generic and minimal in some point p ϵ M and N be a generic submanifold of M passing through p. We prove that a continuous CR function on M vanishes identically in some neigbourhood of p if its restriction to N either vanishes in p faster then some function with non‐integrable logarithm or it vanishes on a subset of N of positive measure.
Compatibility Conditions and the Manifold of Solutions of some Nonlinear Cauchy‐Riemann System in Several Complex Variables
Authors: Hayashi Yasuo
Published: May 2007

The system of differential equations

magnified image

Is studied. On the assumption that the system admits certain class of solutions, necessary conditions of compatibility are deduced, and by introducing some changes of variables the system is reduced to a single differential equation, then conversely by solving it, the formula giving all local solutions of the system is infered. The validity of the factorization theorem and the identity theorem for solutions in the class is also treated.
An Operation Connected to a Young‐Type Inequality
Authors: Strömberg Thomas
Published: May 2007

Given two φ‐functions F and G we consider the largest φ‐function H = F ⊕ G such that the Young‐type inequality H(xy) ⩽ F(x) + G(y) holds for all x, y > 0. We prove an equivalence theorem for F ⊕ G with the best constants and, for the special case when F and G are log‐convex and satisfy a certain growth condition, a representation formula for F G. Moreover, further properties and examples are presented and the relations to similar results are discussed.
Complemented Copies of l1 in Orlicz Spaces
Authors: Chen Shutao , Hudzik Henryk , Sun Huying
Published: May 2007

Criteria for Orlicz spaces containing an isomorphic as well as an almost isometric complemented copy of l1 are given. The same is made for copies of l∞ and c0 in Orlicz spaces and in the subspace of order continuous elements in Orlicz space, respectively. The Hahn‐Banach theorem is not used in the constructions of the projections.
The Laplace Transformation on Certain Spaces of Generalized Functions
Authors: Baier A. , Glaeske H.‐J.
Published: May 2007

In this paper the Laplace transformation in spaces of generalized functions introduced by McBride in the seventieth is investigated. As an application products of operators of fractional calculus as Riemann Liouville‐operator and Weyl‐operator with the Laplace transform are evaluated.
On Fibre Tensor Product Bundles
Authors: Kyriazis Athanasios
Published: May 2007

We consider here an improved and generalized form of fibre tensor product bundles, objects locally looking like tensor products. A certain subclass of such bundles is also characterized as an appropriate type of locally trivial fibre bundles.
Approximated Solution of a Nonlinear Singular Equation of Prandtl's Type
Authors: Oestreich D.
Published: May 2007

A nonlinear strongly singular integral equation, which can be reduced to a nonlinear singular integro‐differential equation of Prandtl's type, is considered. A collocation method for solution is treated and the convergence of the approximated solution to the unique solution of the nonlinear integral equation is proved.
Eigenvalues and Pole Functions of Hamiltonian Systems with Eigenvalue Depending Boundary Conditions
Authors: Dijksma Aad , Langer Heinz , de Snoo Henk
Published: May 2007

This paper consists of two chapters. The first chapter concerns matrix functions belonging to the generalized Nevanlinna class Nkm × m. We present results about the operator representation of such functions. These representations are then used to obtain information about the (generalized) poles of generalized Nevanlinna functions. The second chapter may be viewed as a continuation of our paper [DLS3] and treats Hamiltonian systems of differential equations with boundary conditions depending on the eigenvalue parameter. In particular we study the eigenvalues, both isolated and embedded eigenvalues.
Asymptotics of Solutions of Difference Equations with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Maz'ya Vladimir , Sulimov Michail
Published: May 2007

Linear difference equations in a Hilbert space with coefficients depending on the number n of the equation are considered. It is assumed that the coefficients differ from constant ones by a finite sum of exponentially vanishing terms as n → ∞. An asymptotic formula for solutions as n → ∞ is obtained. The coefficients in the asymptotic expansion are expressed as linear functionals on the space of sequences in the terms on the right‐hand side.
Entire Functions of Bounded Type on Fréchet Spaces
Authors: Galindo Pablo , García Domingo , Maestre Manuel
Published: May 2007

We show that holomorphic mappings of bounded type defined on Fréchet spaces extend to the bidual. The relationship between holomorphic mappings of bounded type and of uniformly bounded type is discussed and some algebraic and topological properties of the space of all entire mappings of (uniformly) bounded type are proved, for example a holomorphic version of Schauder's theorem.
On Identification of Memory Kernels in Linear Viscoelasticity
Authors: Wolfersdorf L. V.
Published: May 2007

The inverse problem of identification of the memory kernel in the linear constitutive stress‐strain‐relation of Boltzmann type is reduced to an optimal control problem for an initial‐boundary‐value problem of the related wave equation for the displacement.

For the control problem the existence of an optimal control is proved, where both classical and generalized solutions of the equation are dealt with. Further the existence and an expression for the gradient of the cost functional are derived.
On Mordell‐Weil Lattices of Type D5
Authors: Usui Hisashi
Published: May 2007

We establish the analogue for D5 of the theory of algebraic equation of type Er (T. SHIODA: Construction of elliptic curves with high rank via the invariants of the Weyl groups, J. Math. Soc. Japan 43, 1991, No. 4, 673‐719), which is one of the results of the theory of Mordell‐Weil lattices. As an application, we give a method of constructing an elliptic curve over Q(t) with rank 5, together with explicit generators of the Mordell‐Weil group.
A Unified Approach to Shifts Induced by Right Invertible Operators
Authors: Binderman Zbigniew
Published: May 2007

In this paper, shifts for a right invertible operator D induced by an analytic function acting in a linear complete metric space are considered. The case when these shifts coincide with the operator ‐ valued function on a set which contains the set of all D‐polynomials and the set of all exponentials is studied. It is shown that in this case these shifts are R‐shifts and D‐shifts (cf. [1], [10]).
Some Questions of Heinrich on Ultrapowers of Locally Convex Spaces
Authors: Galbis Antonio , Peris Alfredo
Published: May 2007

In this note we treat some open problems of Heinrich on ultrapowers of locally convex spaces. In section 1 we investigate the localization of bounded sets in the full ultrapower of a locally convex space, in particular the coincidence of the full and the bounded ultrapower, mainly concentrating in the case of (DF)‐spaces. In section 2 we provide a partial answer to a question of Heinrich on commutativity of strict inductive limits and ultrapowers. In section 3 we analyze the relation between some natural candidates for the notion of superreflexivity in the setting of Fréchet spaces. We give an example of a Fréchet‐Schwartz space which is not the projective limit of a sequence of superreflexive Banach spaces.
A Note on the Convergence of Integral Functionals of Diffusion Processes. An Application to Strong Convergence
Authors: Liese F. , Schmidt W.
Published: May 2007

For a diffusion type process dXt = dWi + a(t, X)dt and a sequence (fn) of nonnegative functions necessary and sufficient conditions to the fn are established which guarantee the a.s. convergence of fn(Xt)dt to zero. This result is applied to derive simple necessary and sufficient conditions for the strong convergence of distributions of diffusion processes formulated in terms of the corresponding drift functions.
D‐Algebras with Logarithms
Authors: Przeworska‐Rolewicz D.
Published: May 2007

A new definition of logarithms and antilogarithms in algebras with right invertible operators is proposed. It will be shown that in the considered class of such algebras all investigations can be reduced to three cases: either right invertible operators are multiplicative or satisfy the classical Leibniz condition for products or logarithms and antilogarithms do not exist. An analogue of power functions is defined by means of the introduced logarithmic and antilogarithmic mappings.
Non‐classical Eigenvalue Asymptotic for Elliptic Operators of Second Order in Unbounded Trumpet‐shaped Domains with Neumann Boundary Conditions
Authors: Berger Günter
Published: May 2007

The paper deals with spectral properties of elliptic operators of second order in irregular unbounded domains with cusps. The eigenvalue asymptotic of the operator with Neumann boundary conditions is proved. The eigenvalue asymptotic in these domains is different from that with Dirichlet boundary conditions.
Differenzenschemata und Darstellungspolynome für Restklassenabbildungen modulo m
Authors: Burde Klaus
Published: May 2007

In 1. werden Differenzenschemata ganzzahliger Folgen mit der Periode m modulo m betrachtet, wobei die maximale unter den auftretenden endlichen Längen solcher Schemata interessiert. Aus den Ergebnissen von 1. werden in 2. Aussagen über Existenz und Grad von Darstellungspolynomen zu Abbildungen des Restklassenrings modulo m in sich hergeleitet.
Infinite Dimensional Parametric Optimal Control Problems
Authors: Aizicovici Sergiu , Papageorgiou Nikolaos S.
Published: May 2007

In this paper we study parametric optimal control problems monitored by nonlinear evolution equations. The parameter appears in all the data, including the nonlinear operator. First we show that for every value of the parameter, the optimal control problem has a solution. Then we study how these solutions as well as the value of the problem respond to changes in the parameter. Finally, we work out in detail two examples of nonlinear parabolic optimal control systems.