bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Requisite Role for the Dectin-1 β-Glucan Receptor in Pulmonary Defense against Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Werner Jessica L. , Metz Allison E. , Horn Dawn , Schoeb Trenton R. , Hewitt Matthew M. , Schwiebert Lisa M. , Faro-Trindade Ines , Brown Gordon D. , Steele Chad
Published: April 2009

Immune suppression increases the incidence of invasive fungal infections, particularly those caused by the opportunistic mold Aspergillus fumigatus. Previous investigations revealed that members of the TLR family are not absolutely required for host defense against A. fumigatus in nonimmunosuppressed hosts, suggesting that other pattern recognition receptors are involved. We show in this study that naive mice (i.e., not pharmacologically immunosuppressed) lacking the β-glucan receptor Dectin-1 (Dectin-1−/−) are more sensitive to intratracheal challenge with A. fumigatus than control mice, exhibiting >80% mortality within 5 days, ultimately attributed to a compromise in respiratory mechanics. In response to A. fumigatus challenge, Dectin-1−/− mice demonstrated impaired IL-1α, IL-1β, TNF-α, CCL3/MIP-1α, CCL4/MIP-1β, and CXCL1/KC production, which resulted in insufficient lung neutrophil recruitment and uncontrolled A. fumigatus lung growth. Alveolar macrophages from Dectin-1−/− mice failed to produce proinflammatory mediators in response to A. fumigatus, whereas neutrophils from Dectin-1−/− mice had impaired reactive oxygen species production and impaired killing of A. fumigatus. We further show that IL-17 production in the lung after A. fumigatus challenge was Dectin-1 dependent, and that neutralization of IL-17 significantly impaired A. fumigatus clearance. Collectively, these results support a requisite role for Dectin-1 in in vivo defense against A. fumigatus.
A Positive Feedback Loop of IL-21 Signaling Provoked by Homeostatic CD4+CD25− T Cell Expansion Is Essential for the Development of Arthritis in Autoimmune K/BxN Mice
Authors: Jang Eunkyeong , Cho Sin-Hye , Park Hyunjoo , Paik Doo-Jin , Kim Jung Mogg , Youn Jeehee
Published: April 2009

Rheumatoid arthritis is a joint-specific autoimmune inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. The K/BxN mouse is a model of rheumatoid arthritis that is thought to be mainly due to autoantibody-mediated inflammatory responses. We showed previously that homeostatic proliferation of autoreactive CD4+ T cells is required for disease initiation in the K/BxN mice. In this study, we show that the homeostatically proliferating CD4+CD25− T cells produce IL-21. We generated IL-21R-deficient (IL-21R−/−) K/BxN mice and found that these mice were completely refractory to the development of spontaneous arthritis. They contained fewer CD4+ T cells with a reduced proportion of homeostatically proliferating cells, fewer follicular Th cells, and, surprisingly, more Th17 cells than their control counterparts. They also failed to develop IgG1+ memory B cells and autoantigen-specific IgG1 Ab-secreting cells. IL-21 induced expression of receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) a regulator of osteoclastogenesis, and few RANKL-expressing infiltrates were found in the synovia of IL-21R−/− K/BxN mice. Thus, our results demonstrate that IL-21 forms a positive feedback autocrine loop involving homeostatically activated CD4+ cells and that it plays an essential role in the development of autoimmune arthritis by mechanisms dependent on follicular Th cell development, autoreactive B cell maturation, and RANKL induction but independent of Th17 cell function. Consistent with this, in vivo administration of soluble the IL-21R-Fc fusion protein delayed the onset and progression of arthritis. Our findings suggest that effective targeting of IL-21-mediated processes may be useful in treating autoimmune arthritis.
Redox Modification of EMACs Through the Tuning of Ligands: Heptametal(II) Complexes of Pyrazine‐Modulated Oligo‐α‐pyridylamido Ligands
Authors: Ismayilov Rayyat Huseyn , Wang Wen‐Zhen , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Chien Chih‐Hsien , Jiang Chien‐Hong , Chiu Chien‐Lan , Yeh Chen‐Yu , Peng Shie‐Ming
Published: April 2009

Using pyrazine‐modulated oligo‐α‐pyridylamido ligands N2‐(pyrazin‐2‐yl)‐N6‐[6‐(pyrazin‐2‐ylamino)pyridin‐2‐yl]pyridine‐2,6‐diamine (H3pzpz) and N2‐(pyrazin‐2‐yl)‐N6‐[6‐(pyridin‐2‐ylamino)pyridin‐2‐yl]pyridine‐2,6‐diamine (H3tpz), linear heptametal(II) extended metal atom chains (EMACs) [M7(μ7‐L)4X2] [L = pzpz3–, M = NiII, X = Cl– (1), NCS– (2); M = CrII, X = Cl– (3), NCS– (4); L = tpz3–, M = CrII, X = Cl– (5), NCS– (6)] were synthesized and structurally characterized. Electrochemical studies showed that heptanickel(II) complexes can undergo one reversible oxidation at +0.46 V for 1 and +0.52 V for 2. Chromium(II) species 3 exhibited two reversible, one‐electron oxidation peaks at +0.61 and +0.88 V, and 5 exhibited three reversible, one‐electron oxidation peaks at +0.40, +0.68 and +1.07 V. The redox peaks shifted positively when axial ligands changed from chloride to thiocyanate anions, at +0.67 and +0.92 V for 4 and +0.44, +0.73 and +1.11 V for 6. The introduction of electron‐withdrawing pyrazine rings to the spacer ligand retarded oxidation of the heptametal EMACs and stabilized the complexes. In nickel(II) species 1 and 2, both terminal nickel atoms exist in spin state S = 1 whereas all the inner nickel atoms exist in spin state S = 0. Temperature‐dependent magnetic research revealed an antiferromagnetic interaction between the two terminal atoms through a superexchange pathway along metal cores with a parameter of about–4 cm–1. Chromium(II) species 3–6 showed a localized structure consisting of three quadruple Cr–Cr bonds and a single terminal CrII atom. Magnetic study revealed a quintet ground state resulting from the isolated, high‐spin CrII atom.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
A sheathless CE/ESI‐MS interface with an ionophore membrane‐packed electro‐conduction channel
Authors: Shi Lian‐Hua , Jin You‐Xun , Moon Dong‐Cheul , Kim Sook‐Kyung , Park Sang‐Ryoul
Published: April 2009

A robust and convenient sheathless CE/ESI‐MS interface realized with an ionophore membrane‐packed electro‐conduction channel is described. Sheathless interfaces that may provide higher sensitivity for MS detection than sheath flow‐supported interfaces generally show instability and short lifetimes due to their imperfection in making an electrical contact with the emitter tip. In this work, we designed a sheathless interface based on an ionophore membrane‐packed electro‐conduction channel. At the joining point of the CE capillary and the emitter capillary, the conduction channel was implemented toward the exterior of the interface body, where a platinum wire electrode was placed. The conduction channel transferred the electric field from the external Pt electrode to the joining point, but prevented the effluent of CE from leaking. The interface body was designed to have receptacles for standard capillary tubing with finger‐tight fittings, which allowed easy replacement of capillary tubing. Stable electrospray was observed for an extended time period without any signs of bubbling or damage to the emitter tip. No significant increment of dead‐volume at the interface was observed for well‐aligned capillaries. Sensitive and stable CE‐MS detection of the model compound of creatinine and uric acid was demonstrated.
Spectral properties and ring conformation of some novel 2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐1,4‐diazepinium cations
Authors: Potter G. W. H. , Coleman M. W. , Monro A. M.
Published: April 2009

A series of 2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐1,4‐diazepinium salts, which includes fused ring systems of known ring‐junction configuration, has been prepared. A study of the spectral properties indicates that this ring system is largely planar and is sufficiently flexible to permit cis and trans fusion at the 2,3‐bond to 5‐ or 6‐membered rings without significant distortion.
The direct thionation and aminoalkylation of pyridine 1‐oxides and related reactions
Authors: Abramovitch Rudolph A. , Knaus Edward E.
Published: April 2009

The reaction of lithiopyridine 1‐oxides with oxygen gives poor yields of 1‐hydroxy‐2‐pyridones. The reaction with sulfur, however, is a convenient route to the 1‐hydroxy‐2‐pyridinethiones which have useful antibacterial and antifungal activity. Reaction with ethylene oxide gives mainly polymeric products, but addition to Shiff's bases promises to be a convenient mode of mono‐, and particularly di‐α‐aminoalkylation of pyridine 1‐oxides.
Synthesis of some phenothiazinyl and carbazolyl pyrylium salts
Authors: Van Allan J. , Reynolds G.
Published: April 2009

2,6‐Diphenyl‐4H‐pyran‐4‐one in the presence of phosphorus oxychloride reacted with phenothiazine to give a pyryliurn salt which was bonded in the 4‐position to the nitrogen atom of phenothiazine. Carbazole gave a similar type of product. When the N‐methyl derivatives of phenothiazine and carbazole were allowed to react under the same conditions, the coupling took place on the phenyl ring para to the nitrogen atom. In contrast to phenothiazine, benzo[a]‐phenothiazine gave a product arising by coupling into the phenyl ring.
THEMIS observations of consecutive bursts of Pi2 pulsations: The 20 April 2007 event
Authors: Cheng C.‐C. , Russell C. T. , Angelopoulos V. , Mann I. , Glassmeier K. H. , Auster U. , Baumjohann W.
Published: April 2009

On 20 April 2007, four Pi2 pulsation bursts occurred successively and simultaneously in the premidnight sector at the E spacecraft and ground‐based observatories for the THEMIS mission, while the AE index was less than 100 nT. Especially for the last three onsets, both ground‐based and GOES 12 magnetometers sensed magnetic perturbations, as expected from the formation of a substorm current wedge (SCW). Moreover, LANL 1994–084 detected an enhancement of energetic particle flux. Spectral analysis shows a matched wave frequency ∼6–8 mHz and another harmonic frequency ∼17 mHz for the fourth burst. The orientation of the major axis of the wave polarization hodogram points toward the SCW location. The first burst has both latitudinal and longitudinal polarization changes from counterclockwise (CCW) to clockwise (CW), in contrast to the other three that have a latitudinal reversal only. The longitudinal CW to CCW change at low latitudes signifies that hydromagnetic waves propagate westward and eastward from the longitude of the impulsive source responsible for SCW. The latitudinal CW to CCW reversal is consistent with induction by a westward moving upward field‐aligned current carried by Alfvén waves leading to field line oscillations. Consequently, they can be explained by the coupling of a fast magnetospheric cavity mode driven by fast compressional waves to field line resonances as expected from braking bursty bulk flows, resulting from magnetotail reconnection, triggered by a preceding northward interplanetary magnetic field turning. This event shows that the source mechanism of consecutive Pi2 onsets at times of weak geomagnetic activity is the same as during substorm times.
Birefringent solid-core photonic bandgap fibers assisted by interstitial air holes
Authors: Pureur V. , Bouwmans G. , Delplace K. , Quiquempois Y. , Douay M.
Published: April 2009

We report on the fabrication and the characterization of a design of highly birefringent solid-core photonic bandgap fibers. A form birefringence is obtained by keeping open all interstitial air holes but two diametrically opposite and close to the fiber core. Group birefringence as high as 0.57×10−3 and 0.47×10−3 at 1.1 and 1.55 μm, respectively, are demonstrated in the first bandgap.
High temperature cavity polaritons in epitaxial Er2O3 on silicon
Authors: Michael C. P. , Sabnis V. A. , Yuen H. B. , Jamora A. , Semans S. , Atanackovic P. B. , Painter O.
Published: April 2009

Cavity polaritons around two Er3+ optical transitions are observed in microdisk resonators fabricated from epitaxial Er2O3 on Si(111). Using a pump-probe method, spectral anticrossings and linewidth averaging of the polariton modes are measured in the cavity transmission and luminescence at temperatures above 361 K.
Influence of epitaxial strain on the magnetic properties of (110) SmFe2 thin film
Authors: de la Fuente C. , Arnaudas J. I. , Ciria M. , del Moral A. , Dufour C. , Dumesnil K.
Published: April 2009

A novel nonlinear influence of the magnetoelastic energy because of the epitaxial strain allows us to explain the spontaneous magnetization and the cubic magnetostriction of a molecular-beam-epitaxy-grown SmFe2 thin film. Under this scope, new crystal-field parameters A4 and A6 and exchange coupling parameter λex have been found. These new parameters could account for the change of the energy balance in the spin reorientation transition and explain the softening it has with respect to the bulk case.
Formation of ultrafine uniform gold nanoparticles by sputtering and redeposition
Authors: Zhou Xiuli , Wei Qiangmin , Sun Kai , Wang Lumin
Published: April 2009

Uniformly distributed Au nanoparticles with controllable size were fabricated by focused ion beam bombardment of thin gold films. In situ scanning electron microscopy and ex situ transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the nanoparticles. Results show that a dual particle size distribution was generated at low ion fluence, while highly uniform Au particles with diameters around 2 nm formed at high fluence. The balance between sputtering and redeposition is responsible for the formation and size control of the nanoparticles. Optical absorption measurement revealed strong size dependant resonances that are attributed to the surface plasmon resonance of the Au particles.
Low voltage efficient simple p-i-n type electrophosphorescent green organic light-emitting devices
Authors: Kim Sun Young , Jeon Woo Sik , Park Tae Jin , Pode Ramchandra , Jang Jin , Kwon Jang Hyuk
Published: April 2009

We present simple p-i-n structures with double-emitting and mixed-emitting layers for highly efficient phosphorescent green devices. Using a wide band-gap hole transporting material of 4,4′4″-tris(N-carbazolyl)-triphenylamine and a wide band-gap electron transporting material of bis[2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridine]beryllium, the bilayered p-i-n structure with no heterointerface barriers has been realized. A very low onset voltage value of 2.4 V corresponding to the energy of 2.4 eV of green electroluminescence, which is close to the photon energy of dopant emitting molecules (2.3–2.4 eV), is achieved in this simple p-i-n device configuration. Maximum current- and power-efficiency values of 53.3 cd/A and 61.4 lm/W and low rolloff of current efficiency (6%) are demonstrated in the simple p-i-n green phosphorescent devices, promising for the practical and economical high brightness applications.
Use of the Long Baseline Array in Australia for Precise Geodesy and Absolute Astrometry
Authors: Petrov Leonid , Phillips Chris , Bertarini Alessandra , Deller Adam , Pogrebenko Sergei , Mujunen Ari
Published: April 2009

We report the results of a successful 12-hour 22-GHz VLBI experiment using a heterogeneous network that includes radio telescopes of the Long Baseline Array (LBA) in Australia and several VLBI stations that regularly observe in geodetic VLBI campaigns. We have determined positions of three VLBI stations, atca-104, ceduna and mopra, with an accuracy of 4–30 mm using a novel technique of data analysis. These stations have never before participated in geodetic experiments. We observed 105 radio sources, and amongst them 5 objects which have not previously been observed with VLBI. We have determined positions of these new sources with the accuracy of 2–5 mas. We make the conclusion that the LBA network is capable of conducting absolute astrometry VLBI surveys with an accuracy better than 5 mas.
VTC4 Is a Bifunctional Enzyme That Affects Myoinositol and Ascorbate Biosynthesis in Plants
Authors: Torabinejad Javad , Donahue Janet L. , Gunesekera Bhadra N. , Allen-Daniels Matthew J. , Gillaspy Glenda E.
Published: April 2009

Myoinositol synthesis and catabolism are crucial in many multiceullar eukaryotes for the production of phosphatidylinositol signaling molecules, glycerophosphoinositide membrane anchors, cell wall pectic noncellulosic polysaccharides, and several other molecules including ascorbate. Myoinositol monophosphatase (IMP) is a major enzyme required for the synthesis of myoinositol and the breakdown of myoinositol (1,4,5)trisphosphate, a potent second messenger involved in many biological activities. It has been shown that the VTC4 enzyme from kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) has similarity to IMP and can hydrolyze l-galactose 1-phosphate (l-Gal 1-P), suggesting that this enzyme may be bifunctional and linked with two potential pathways of plant ascorbate synthesis. We describe here the kinetic comparison of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) recombinant VTC4 with d-myoinositol 3-phosphate (d-Ins 3-P) and l-Gal 1-P. Purified VTC4 has only a small difference in the V  max/K  m for l-Gal 1-P as compared with d-Ins 3-P and can utilize other related substrates. Inhibition by either Ca2+ or Li+, known to disrupt cell signaling, was the same with both l-Gal 1-P and d-Ins 3-P. To determine whether the VTC4 gene impacts myoinositol synthesis in Arabidopsis, we isolated T-DNA knockout lines of VTC4 that exhibit small perturbations in abscisic acid, salt, and cold responses. Analysis of metabolite levels in vtc4 mutants showed that less myoinositol and ascorbate accumulate in these mutants. Therefore, VTC4 is a bifunctional enzyme that impacts both myoinositol and ascorbate synthesis pathways.
Posttranslational Regulation of CIRCADIAN CLOCK ASSOCIATED1 in the Circadian Oscillator of Arabidopsis
Authors: Yakir Esther , Hilman Dror , Kron Ido , Hassidim Miriam , Melamed-Book Naomi , Green Rachel M.
Published: April 2009

As an adaptation to life in a world with predictable daily changes, most eukaryotes and some prokaryotes have endogenous circadian (approximately 24 h) clocks. In plants, the circadian clock regulates a diverse range of cellular and physiological events from gene expression and protein phosphorylation to cellular calcium oscillations, hypocotyl growth, leaf movements, and photoperiod-dependent flowering. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), as in other model organisms, such as Drosophila (Drosophila melanogaster) and mice, circadian rhythms are generated by molecular oscillators that consist of interlocking feedback loops involving a number of elements. CIRCADIAN CLOCK ASSOCIATED1 (CCA1) and LATE ELONGATED HYPOCOTYLS (LHY) are closely related single myb transcription factors that have been identified as key elements in the Arabidopsis oscillator. Research in other model organisms has shown that posttranslational regulation of oscillator components plays a critical role in the generation of the approximately 24-h cycles. To examine the role of posttranslational regulation of CCA1 and LHY in the Arabidopsis oscillator, we generated transgenic plants with tagged CCA1 and LHY under the control of their own promoters. We have shown that these tagged proteins are functional and can restore normal circadian rhythms to CCA1- and LHY-null plants. Using the tagged proteins, we demonstrate that CCA1 can form both homodimers and heterodimers with LHY. Furthermore, we also show that CCA1 is localized to the nucleus in vivo and that there is no significant delay between the translation of CCA1 and its translocation to the nucleus. We discuss our findings in the context of the functioning of the Arabidopsis oscillator.
Dual hepatitis virus infections in liver transplant: case report and a review of the literature
Authors: Yataco Maria L. , Dickson Rolland C. , Bonatti Hugo , Aranda‐Michel Jaime , Mendez Julio , Ghabril Marwan , Nguyen Justin
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Background:  Liver transplantation (LT) using grafts from anti‐HBVcore antibody‐positive (anti‐HBVcAB+) donors carry risk for development of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The long‐term course of hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients receiving anti‐HBVcAB+ grafts is poorly understood.

Patients and methods:  A patient with chronic hepatitis C received an anti‐HBVc+ graft and developed de novo hepatitis B after four months. We describe the 14 HCV patients who received antiHBVc+ grafts and the condition of disease.

Results:  Hepatitis B was treated successfully with lamivudine. One year later, breakthrough infection developed with a lamivudine‐resistant mutant. Addition of adefovir led to HBV surface antigen to surface antibody seroconversion after two yr, which was maintained long term. Antiviral therapy was discontinued. Liver biopsy revealed minimal histologic changes up to eight yr post‐LT. Survival of 14 recipients of antiHBVc+ allografts and 180 recipients of antiHBVc‐negative grafts was equal (minimum follow up of five yr). Liver biopsies at four yr showed grade 0/1 and stage 0/1 in >70%; only two patients showed bridging fibrosis. A literature review of dual hepatitis virus infection revealed an overall milder course of hepatitis post‐LT.

Conclusion:  The outcome of HCV patients receiving anti‐HBc+ grafts is good and may be associated with a milder course of recurrent HCV.
STRINGS ATTACHED: NEW PUBLIC MANAGEMENT, COMPETITIVE GRANT FUNDING AND SOCIAL CAPITAL
Authors: Irvine Helen , Lazarevski Katie , Dolnicar Sara
Published: April 2009

This paper first investigates the impact of New Public Management (NPM) practices, particularly competitive grant funding, on Bushcare New South Wales (NSW), an Australian environmental volunteering organisation. Secondly, identifying such local volunteering organisations as repositories of valuable social capital, it explores the link between volunteering and social capital. Using mixed methods and institutional theory, the study reveals that an increased level of professionalism and accountability is required of Bushcare groups, and that local coordinators face a challenge in balancing local, regional and national priorities without sacrificing Bushcare's mission. These dynamics, it is proposed, have potentially serious social capital implications.
THE EYE, VISION AND PHOTOGRAMMETRY
Authors: Bedwell C. H.
Published: April 2009

The author begins by discussing the optical system of the eye, refractive errors and their correction, the image receiving and perception system, visual resolution and fixation of objects. Binocular vision and depth perception are then considered, particularly when viewing a pair of photographs stereoscopically through independent optical systems. The effect of relevant visual anomalies on photogrammetric performance and the screening of candidates for photogrammetric work are then discussed.
A NEW PHOTOGRAMMETRIC PLOTTER: THE CP1
Authors: Thompson E. H.
Published: April 2009

The paper describes a new type of photogrammetric plotter based on first order formulae. It differs from other attempts at this, in that all the implications of these formulae are accepted with the three principal consequences that the operator views a model that is free of y‐parallax, that all effects of convergence of the pictures, including errors in the vertical scale, are removed and that geometrical errors in the heights do not increase with increasing ground elevations. The principles lead to a robust, cheap plotter.
DETERMINATION OF THE WIND VECTOR IN THE LOWER ATMOSPHERE BY STEREOPHOTOGRAMMETRIC SURVEYS OF SMOKE MARKS
Authors: Pietschner J.
Published: April 2009

A method is described for determining wind vectors in the lower atmosphere from terrestrial stereophotography. The photographs were taken with specially adapted aerial cameras using the normal or parallel averted case with horizontal camera axes. The most favourable photographic registration was obtained on ORWO UT 16 colour reversal film. Photograph co‐ordinates and horizontal parallaxes were measured and recorded on punched tape with the Zeiss (Jena) stecometer. Vector components, which were calculated from co‐ordinate differences, and a statistical analysis were obtained by using an electronic computer.
Fluocinolone Acetonide 0.01% in Peanut Oil: Safety and Efficacy Data in the Treatment of Childhood Atopic Dermatitis in Infants as Young as 3 Months of Age
Authors: Dohil Magdalene A. , Alvarez‐Connelly Elizabeth , Eichenfield Lawrence F.
Published: April 2009

Abstract:  Fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% in a blend of refined peanut and mineral oils has been established as effective and safe treatment for atopic dermatitis in patients 2 years and older, including those with peanut sensitivity, for several years. We sought to study the safety of fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% oil and its potential for adrenal axis suppression in infants as young as 3 months of age. A controlled, open‐label study was performed in children aged 3 months to 2 years with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis at two academic pediatric dermatology centers. Patients received topical fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% oil twice daily to affected areas involving a minimum of 20% body surface ratio for 4 weeks. Cortisol stimulation testing was performed at baseline and at the end of the treatment phase. Patients were monitored for medication use and adverse events. Efficacy was assessed using the Investigator Global Severity and Response scales. Thirty‐two patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis were recruited into the study and 30 were evaluated with the Physician’s Global Improvement Assessment tool. The mean body surface ratio treated for all age groups was 48%. Eighty‐three percent of patients had marked or better improvement scores by week 2 and 96% by week 4, with 40% completely cleared. No adrenal suppression occurred in the 24 patients that met inclusion criteria for hypothalamus‐pituitary axis (HPA) axis analysis. No relevant adverse events occurred. Results of this study support the safety and efficacy of fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% in refined peanut oil vehicle, for infants as young as 3 months of age with atopic dermatitis. No evidence of adrenal suppression or adverse local effects was demonstrated after 4 weeks of twice daily treatment.
Efficacy of treatments for patients with obsessive‐compulsive disorder: A systematic review
Authors: Choi Yun‐Jung
Published: April 2009

Purpose: This systematic review examines the efficacy of pharmacological therapy for obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD), addressing two major issues: which treatment is most effective in treating the patient’s symptoms and which is beneficial for maintaining remission.

Data sources: Seven databases were used to acquire articles. The key words used to search for the relative topics published from 1996 to 2007 were “obsessive‐compulsive disorder” and “Yale‐Brown obsession‐compulsion scale.” Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 25 studies were selected from 57 potentially relevant studies.

Conclusions: The effects of treatment with clomipramine and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs: fluvoxamine, sertraline, fluoxetine, citalopram, and escitalopram) proved to be similar, except for the lower adherence rate in case of clomipramine because of its side effects. An adequate drug trial involves administering an effective daily dose for a minimum of 8 weeks. An augmentation strategy proven effective for individuals refractory to monotherapy with SSRI treatment alone is the use of atypical antipsychotics (risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine).

Implications for practice: Administration of fluvoxamine or sertraline to patients for an adequate duration is recommended as the first‐line prescription for OCD, and augmentation therapy with risperidone, olanzapine, or quetiapine is recommended for refractory OCD.
Social and Educational Characteristics of Village Leadership in Haryana
Authors: Malik A.S. , Yadav Pushpender
Published: April 2009

Based on empirical information, the proportion of younger and middle-aged leaders in gram panchayats in India is increasing, particularly among women and relatively educated leaders. However, an emerging young leadership is absent in the case of scheduled castes (A) and backward castes (A) leaders. The study also reveals that caste is a significant factor in electing a panch or sarpanch in a village panchayat. Reservations on caste basis and the ward system have further reenforced this trend. In general, leaders at the gram panchayat level are either illiterate or educated up to the matriculation level, while the leaders of upper, farming and backward castes (B) are better in terms of educational achievements as compared to leaders of other castes. Furthermore, the young leaders are relatively better educated and a majority of them are from smaller families. Thus, leaders belonging to upper and farming castes are socially and educationally ahead of leaders from other castes.
Characterization of Water-Extractable Pentosans in Enzyme-Supplemented Wheat Sourdough Processes
Authors: Devesa A. , Martlnez-Anaya M. A.
Published: April 2009

Effects of white wheat flour, sourdough starters (multiform and pure strain) and enzymes (amylase/pentosanase and/or lipase) on composition of water-extractable pentosans during bread making were evaluated. Gel permeation chromatography of purified water-extractable pentosans (WEP) yielded five fractions with apparent molecular weight (MW) comprised between 3.8 x 10' and 102 Daltons. WEP isolated from dough and bread samples had the same MW distribution but different relative proportion of each fraction. Addition of commercial hemicellulases significantly increased the formation of WEP with MW between 3.8 x 10' and I x 10' D. This increment depended on the starter used. The addition of enzyme to sourdough samples significantly decreased protein content in WEP fractions at every bread-making stage and ferulic acid content after mixing and fermentation.
Analysis of hemagglutinin-mediated entry tropism of H5N1 avian influenza
Authors: Guo Ying , Rumschlag-Booms Emily , Wang Jizhen , Xiao Haixia , Yu Jia , Wang Jianwei , Guo Li , Gao George F , Cao Youjia , Caffrey Michael , Rong Lijun
Published: April 2009

Background

Avian influenza virus H5N1 is a major concern as a potential global pandemic. It is thought that multiple key events must take place before efficient human-to-human transmission of the virus occurs. The first step in overcoming host restriction is viral entry which is mediated by HA, responsible for both viral attachment and viral/host membrane fusion. HA binds to glycans-containing receptors with terminal sialic acid (SA). It has been shown that avian influenza viruses preferentially bind to α2,3-linked SAs, while human influenza A viruses exhibit a preference for α2,6-linked SAs. Thus it is believed the precise linkage of SAs on the target cells dictate host tropism of the viruses.

Results

We demonstrate that H5N1 HA/HIV pseudovirus can efficiently transduce several human cell lines including human lung cells. Interestingly, using a lectin binding assay we show that the presence of both α2,6-linked and α2,3-linked SAs on the target cells does not always correlate with efficient transduction. Further, HA substitutions of the residues implicated in switching SA-binding between avian and human species did not drastically affect HA-mediated transduction of the target cells or target cell binding.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that a host factor(s), which is yet to be identified, is required for H5N1 entry in the host cells.
Dedialectalization or the Death of a Dialect: The Case of the Catalan Subdialect Spoken in the Costa Brava
Authors: Perea Maria-Pilar
Published: April 2009

Catalan includes six dialectal areas. In general, all of them are subdivided into subdialects. Eastern Catalan incorporates five subdialects: the northern transitional subdialect, the subdialects of Barcelona and Tarragona, and the so-called xipella and salat subdialects, which have only been defined by one dialectal feature. These particular traits are dying out at the moment.

The aim of this paper is to study the process of extinction of the salat subdialect. The project L'arxiu audiovisual del parlar salat de la Costa Brava (The archive of the salat subdialect of the Costa Brava), started in 2004, shows the vitality of this subdialect and its present-day situation.
Posições oficiais 2008 da Sociedade Brasileira de Densitometria Clínica (SBDens)
Authors: Brandão Cynthia M. A. , Camargos Bruno Muzzi , Zerbini Cristiano Augusto , Plapler Pérola Grinberg , Mendonça Laura Maria de Carvalho , Albergaria Ben-Hur , Pinheiro Marcelo Medeiros , Prado Mirley do , Eis Sergio Ragi
Published: April 2009

A evolução dos métodos de avaliação da massa óssea trouxe diferentes tecnologias, modos de aquisição de imagens, bancos de dados de referência, terminologias, critérios diagnósticos fez com que a International Society for Bone Densitometry (ISCD) tomasse a iniciativa de promover reuniões periódicas de consenso, a última em 2007. A Sociedade Brasileira de Densitometria Clínica (SBDens), com apoio de várias sociedades brasileiras ligadas ao estudo da saúde óssea, reuniu diversos especialistas para discutir as propostas da ISCD e validar a aplicação destas normas à população brasileira. A reunião de Posições Oficiais da SBDens produziu um documento extremamente útil para a compreensão e interpretação da densitometria e de outros métodos de avaliação da massa óssea.
Estimativa da distribuição da energia solar no Estado de São Paulo
Authors: Cervellini Admar , Salati Enéas , Godoy Hernani
Published: April 2009

Os autores analisam a distribuição da energia solar no Estado de São Paulo, área limitada pelas latitudes de 20°S a 25°S. É apresentada uma equação média para determinação da radiação na superfície, partindo de dados de insolação para as condições da referida área. Utilizou-se o método clássico da correlação entre dados de actinógrafo e heliógrafo.
A seringueira (Hevea brasiliensisMuell.-Arg.) no Vale do Rio Paraíba
Authors: Cunha João Ferreira da
Published: April 2009

Foi feito um estudo sôbre o cultivo de seringueira (Hevea brasiliensisMuell. - Arg.) no vale do rio Paraíba, no Estado de São Paulo, onde se fêz pela primeira vez o plantio com a finalidade de pesquisar a adaptação dessa espécie vegetal ao ambiente e as possibilidades da exploração comercial na região. O seringal foi plantado em terreno terciário, da série Guatemala, próximo de baixada, na Estação Experimental de Pindamonhangaba, localizada mais ou menos no centro do referido vale, a 22°55' de latitude sul, 45°25' de longitude e à altitude de 570 metros. O desenvolvimento das plantas foi normal. Ao completar sete anos de idade, havia 70% das plantas com as dimensões convencionais para início de exploração do seringal. A produção obtida de borracha foi de cêrca de 460 quilogramas por hectare no primeiro ano de colheita, 620 no segundo e 835 no terceiro. O aparecimento da moléstia das fôlhas, causada por Dothidella ulei,nos dois últimos anos de colheita, parece não ter tido influência apreciável na produção, que continuou aumentando. Os exames tecnológicos efetuados na borracha obtida revelaram características de fina qualidade.
Manejo da lagarta-do-cartucho em milho com formulações de nim e Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai
Authors: Lima Marcileyne Pessôa Leite de , Oliveira José Vargas de , Marques Edmilson Jacinto
Published: April 2009

A lagarta-do-cartucho, Spodoptera frugiperda, principal praga do milho, é comumente controlada com inseticidas sintéticos. Assim, na busca de alternativas eficientes e de baixo impacto ambiental, testou-se em campo as formulações comerciais de nim Natuneem® (10mL L-1 em 2005 e 15mL L-1 em 2006) e Neemseto® (5 e 10mL L-1 em 2005, e 10 e 15mL L-1 em 2006) e do inseticida biológico Bta (Xentari® 10g L-1 em 2005 e 2006), aplicados aos 15, 30 e 45 e aos 15, 25 e 35 dias, após a emergência das plantas, em 2005 e 2006, respectivamente. Antes de cada pulverização foram atribuídas notas de 0 a 5 para as injúrias foliares. Em 2005, somente Neemseto® 10mL L-1 foi eficiente aos 30 dias. Em 2006, Neemseto® 15mL L-1 e Bta 10g L-1, com notas médias de 0,93 e 0,98, diferiram da testemunha, com nota 2,38, na avaliação realizada aos 35 dias. Em casa-de-vegetação, plantas de milho foram pulverizadas com os inseticidas Natuneem®, Neemseto® e Xentari® e posteriormente infestadas, artificialmente, com lagartas recém-eclodidas. Após 10 dias, verificou-se que os tratamentos foram igualmente eficientes, diferindo da testemunha, tanto em relação às notas, quando ao número de lagartas sobreviventes.
Percurso semântico do tema empregabilidade: a (re)construção de parte da história de uma empresa de telefonia
Authors: Carrieri Alexandre de Pádua , Sarsur Amyra Moyzes
Published: April 2009

Este artigo é resultado de dez anos de pesquisa sobre as transformações das significações culturais em uma empresa do setor de telecomunicações. Na pesquisa, diversos percursos semânticos foram analisados. Para este trabalho, foi estudado o percurso discursivo do tema empregabilidade. Este tema foi escolhido partindo-se da idéia de que empregabilidade representaria uma estratégia adotada pela alta administração das empresas, no sentido de transferência da organização para o trabalhador da responsabilidade da não-contratação ou da demissão. Utilizando-se a Análise dos Discursos, foram analisadas cerca de cem entrevistas realizadas com gerentes e técnicos, empregados e exempregados, e efetuada análise documental da empresa pesquisada, estruturando-se o estudo do percurso discursivo do tema empregabilidade. No exame dos dados, observaram-se três fases de estruturação do tema: a primeira, somente como discurso da alta administração; a segunda, como tema compartilhado pela alta administração e pela gerência; e a terceira, como tema disseminado entre todos os atores organizacionais. Por fim, pode-se também observar que o percurso semântico da empregabilidade evidenciou o enfraquecimento progressivo do pacto da estabilidade-fidelidade dos empregados na empresa investigada.
Carreiras e cidades: existiria um melhor lugar para se fazer carreira?
Authors: Balassiano Moisés , Ventura Elvira Cruvinel Ferreira , Fontes Filho Joaquim Rubens
Published: April 2009

O objetivo do presente estudo é apresentar e discutir as principais mudanças no conceito de carreira. Duas diferentes abordagens são comparadas e contrastadas: a tradicional, com premissas voltadas eminentemente para as garantias de benefícios e segurança; e a moderna, segundo a qual o sucesso na carreira está associado à trajetória pessoal, expandindo-se o espaço de expressão para o campo pessoal, familiar e profissional, conforme Chanlat (1995), Martins (2001) e Hall (1996). De acordo com essa abordagem, surge o conceito de carreira proteana que, entre outros fatores, tem como características o aprendizado, o sucesso psicológico e a expansão da identidade, independentemente da profissão ou empresa escolhida. Assim, foi realizada uma pesquisa para identificar e ordenar as cidades, onde as dimensões dessa perspectiva de carreira se apresentam com maior intensidade. A referida pesquisa utilizou metodologia baseada em técnicas estatísticas, visando a definir e testar um conjunto de indicadores capazes de refletir as potencialidades locais, em face da teoria apresentada. Como resultado, foram ordenadas cem cidades, de acordo com critérios de inclusão, definidos para a pesquisa.
O impacto do desemprego sobre o bem-estar psicológico dos trabalhadores da cidade de Natal
Authors: Argolo João Carlos Tenório , Araújo Maria Arlete Duarte
Published: April 2009

Trata-se de estudo dos efeitos da situação de desemprego sobre o bem-estar psicológico, que se serve de referencial teórico eminentemente psicossocial, segundo modelo explicativo de Warr (1987). Em sua metodologia semi-experimental, para testar a relação entre o desemprego e a deterioração do bem-estar psicológico, foram comparadas as médias dos escores do Questionário de Saúde Geral, de Goldberg, versão 12 itens, entre empregados (N=184) e desempregados (N=458), exercendo-se o controle de variáveis sociodemográficas. Assim, obteve-se o resultado de que a deterioração do bem-estar psicológico, na amostra de empregados, foi menor que na dos desempregados, confirmando-se a hipótese de que a situação de desemprego causa deterioração do bem-estar psicológico. Também foi investigado o papel mediador das variáveis centralidade do trabalho, apoio social percebido e características sociodemográficas sobre o sofrimento psicológico dos desempregados. Provas estatísticas forneceram resultados significativos de associação, predição e F value para as variáveis participação no orçamento familiar, número de filhos, apoio social percebido, religião e freqüência à igreja. Não foram encontradas associações significativas para gênero, idade, grau de instrução, renda, centralidade do trabalho e tempo de desemprego.
Aprendizagem tecnológica compensa? Implicações da acumulação de competências tecnológicas para o aprimoramento de performance técnico-econômica em uma unidade de aciaria no Brasil (1997-2001)
Authors: Castro Eduardo Côrtes de , Figueiredo Paulo Negreiros
Published: April 2009

Este artigo enfoca as implicações dos processos de aprendizagem para acumulação de competências tecnológicas e aprimoramento da performance técnico-econômica. Esta relação é examinada por meio do estudo de caso individual na unidade de aciaria da Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (1997-2001). São usadas estruturas analíticas, desenvolvidas recentemente na literatura sobre acumulação de competências tecnológicas e processos de aprendizagem, porém adaptadas para unidade estudada. As competências tecnológicas são avaliadas em níveis de competência para as funções processo, produto e equipamentos. A aprendizagem tecnológica é analisada em processos, na aquisição de conhecimento externo/interno, socialização e codificação; e examinada à luz das características-chaves, como variedade, intensidade, funcionamento e interação. Observou-se que a acumulação de competências tecnológicas por meio dos processos de aprendizagem teve implicações positivas sobre o desempenho técnico da unidade.
Actinomycetes and earthy-musty odorous compounds in brackish fishponds in Tianjin, China
Authors: Pan Yong , Xu Lipu , Cao Wenxuan , Yin Shouren , Wang Zongwei , Zhou Qiaohong
Published: April 2009

The presence of the odorous compounds, 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) and geosmin, as well as causative microorganisms in brackish intensive cultivation fishponds in Tianjin, China that had a severe earthy-musty odor were evaluated. The results revealed that MIB was the primary odorous compound present in the Tianjin fishponds, with a concentration ranging from 0.53–5302.7 ng·L−1. Furthermore, the concentration of MIB was found to be closely correlated with the gross biomass of actinomycetes in the water, which ranged from 10.67–1528.24 × 106 cfu·ml−1. Therefore, the sequences of the 16 SrRNA and morphological characteristics of the actinomycetes in the brackish fishponds were investigated. The results revealed that the actinomycetes in the brackish fishponds included 9 species of common and dominant actinomycetes belonging to 4 genera. Of these genera, Streptomyces were the dominant species, and Streptomyces, Nocardioides and Micromonospora were the most common species in the fishponds evaluated. Next, the ability of each of the isolated Streptomyces to produce MIB was measured under laboratory culture conditions. Streptomyces Sp2 was found to have a strong ability to produce MIB, which indicates that this strain may be the primary source of the earthy-musty odor reported in brackish intensive cultivation fishponds in Tianjin, China.
Cellulose production by Gluconacetobacter sp. GM5 in a static semi-continuous fermentation process using vinasse as culture media
Authors: Velásquez-Riaño M. , Lombana-Sánchez N.
Published: April 2009

In this study the cellulose production by Gluconacetobacter sp. GM5 was evaluated with a static semi-continuous fermentation, as well as the cellulose production adding ethanol 1.4% in a static discontinuous fermentation process and discontinuous fermentation in a rotary shaker with agitation speed of 250 rpm. All these experiments were done with vinasse as experimental culture media (MV) and it was compared with a standard medium containing glucose (MS). A 15% of inoculum was added to all treatments, and incubated at 29°C. A sample of each one was extracted every 24 and 48 h in periods of 168, 192 and 362 h depending on the fermentation. During the cellulose production with media MV in semi-continuous process a synchronous phenomenon was observed, obtaining a rate of 0.878±0.033 g/l every 48 h. Adding ethanol 1.4% to the culture, with media MS the cellulose production was five times bigger and with media MV was duplicated.
CHANGING ETHNIC/RACIAL STEREOTYPES: THE ROLES OF INDIVIDUALS AND GROUPS
Authors: Izumi Yutaka , Hammonds Frank
Published: April 2009

The effects of various types of information on stereotypical beliefs were examined. Undergraduate students read either stereotypical or nonstereotypical descriptions of Korean, Mexican, and Jewish individuals. Participants' responses to questions about the described individuals
differed significantly across description type. Participants were also asked to estimate the percentages of individuals in the three ethnic groups who possessed certain stereotypical traits. Some participants were shown estimates supposedly given by previous participants. Both the individual
descriptions and the provided percentages were associated with significant differences in participants' estimated percentages. Group information (percentages) was more often effective in producing differences in the estimated percentages than was information about individuals.
PREVENTING PIRACY USE INTENTION BY RECTIFYING SELF-POSITIVITY BIAS
Authors: Lai Mengkuan , Kuo Chung-Chi
Published: April 2009

Piracy has become a global challenge. In this study, the author proposed to discourage piracy intention by rectifying the self-positivity bias with message framing and information accessibility. Cartoon advertisements conveying either positively or negatively framed messages were produced.
Respondents' level of information accessibility of piracy behavior was manipulated. As predicted, using positively framed messages or increasing level of information accessibility can effectively reduce self-positivity bias. Moreover, in a low information accessibility scenario, positive
rather than negative message framing is more effective in reducing self-positivity bias in using pirated products. Research implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research are also addressed.
A Sequential O‐Nitrosoaldol and Grignard Addition Process: An Enantio‐ and Diastereoselective Entry to Chiral 1,2‐Diols
Authors: Jiao Peng , Kawasaki Masanori , Yamamoto Hisashi
Published: April 2009

Chirale 1,2‐Diole wurden ausgehend von α‐aminoxylierten Aldehyden oder Cyclohexanon und Grignard‐Reagentien mit L‐Prolin oder dem gezeigten Tetrazolderivat als Katalysator erhalten. Die Gegenwart eines at‐Komplexes von CeCl3⋅2 LiCl ist entscheidend für hohe Ausbeuten und Selektivitäten (siehe Schema; DMSO=Dimethylsulfoxid, THF=Tetrahydrofuran, Tol=Tolyl).

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Preparation and comparison of two electrodes for supercapacitors: Pani/CNT/Ni and Pani/Alizarin‐treated nickel
Authors: Koysuren Ozcan , Du Chunsheng , Pan Ning , Bayram Goknur
Published: April 2009

Polyaniline in emeraldine form was synthesized in the presence of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and the electrochemical capacitance performance of thus formed composite as electrode material has been studied. The polyaniline/carbon nanotubes (Pani/CNT) composite is found to result in a higher specific capacitance than that of either composite constituent, attributable to the double‐layer capacitance behavior of the nanotubes in the Pani/CNT system. However, once assembled into a two‐electrode cell, lower than expected specific capacitance values from 1 to 20 F/g were obtained, and such reduction is most likely caused by the contact resistance between the Pani/CNT electrodes and the nickel (Ni) current collectors. To improve the situation, a chemical treatment was applied to the nickel foil, and the Pani solution is then deposited on the surface of the foil to form a coated structure (Pani/Ni). The thickness and weight of the Pani films can be controlled by adjusting the concentration of the Pani solution. The specific capacitance of the cell with electrodes made of the new Pani/Ni composite was found to reach as high as 35.5 F/g. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009