bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitric oxide induces apoptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells through activation of caspase-8
Authors: Du Caigan , Guan Qiunong , Diao Hong , Yin Ziqin , Jevnikar Anthony M.
Published: December 2005

The susceptibility or resistance of tubular epithelial cells (TEC) to apoptosis is pivotal to the long-term maintenance of kidney function following episodes of inflammation, such as graft rejection. TEC apoptosis can occur with ischemia as well as with proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO), produced by infiltrating mononuclear cells. TEC can also produce abundant amounts of NO during inflammation but the role and regulation of NO-induced injury of TEC are not well understood. Apoptosis in TEC in vitro was determined by FACS analysis with annexin-V and propidium iodide staining. NO in culture supernatants was measured by Greiss reagent, and protein expression of inducible NO synthetase (NOS2/iNOS) and caspase-8 was examined by Western blot analysis. Here, we showed that murine TEC produced abundant amounts of NO in response to proinflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ/TNF-α) through upregulation of NOS2, and inhibition of endogenous NO production by l-NMMA reduced TEC apoptosis in cytokine-stimulated cultures. Addition of exogenous NO (sodium nitroprusside) induced TEC apoptosis as well as caspase-8 activation in a dose-dependent manner. The key role of caspase-8 in NO-induced TEC apoptosis was demonstrated by that NO-induced TEC apoptosis can be blocked by caspase-8 inhibition using z-IETD-fmk, caspase-8 silencing with shRNA or by overexpressing the endogenous caspase-8 inhibitor c-FLIP (cellular Flice-inhibitory protein). In conclusion, endogenous NO from NOS2 activity as well as exogenous NO can contribute to renal injury through apoptosis of TEC. Activation of caspase-8 plays a central role in NO-induced apoptosis and caspase-8 inhibition may be an important therapeutic target during renal inflammation.
Kidney oxygen consumption, carbonic anhydrase, and proton secretion
Authors: Deng Aihua , Miracle Cynthia M. , Lortie Mark , Satriano Joseph , Gabbai Francis B. , Munger Karen A. , Thomson Scott C. , Blantz Roland C.
Published: December 2005

Oxygen consumed by the kidney (QO2) is primarily obligated to sodium reabsorption (TNa). The relationship of QO2to TNa(QO2/TNa) may be altered by hormones and autacoids. To examine whether QO2/TNadepends on the mechanism of sodium reabsorption, we first evaluated the effects on QO2and QO2/TNaof benzolamide (BNZ), a proximal diuretic that works by inhibiting membrane carbonic anhydrase. During BNZ infusion in anesthetized rats, QO2increased by 50% despite a 25% decline in TNa. However, BNZ failed to increase QO2/TNawhen given along with the adenosine A1 receptor blocker, DPCPX, which inhibits basolateral Na-bicarbonate cotransport (NBC1), or EIPA, which inhibits sodium-hydrogen exchange (NHE). Incubating freshly harvested rat proximal tubules with BNZ also caused QO2to increase by 62%, an effect that was prevented by blocking the apical NHE3 with S3226. Blocking NBC1 or NHE3 in the proximal tubule will have opposite effects on cell pH, but both maneuvers should reduce active chloride transport. In conclusion, inhibiting membrane carbonic anhydrase in the proximal tubule increases QO2and reduces the energy efficiency of sodium reabsorption by the kidney. This is not purely due to shifting the burden of reabsorption to a more expensive site downstream from the proximal tubule. Instead, increased cost may be incurred within the proximal tubule as the result of increased active chloride transport.
Molecular analysis of impaired urinary diluting capacity in glucocorticoid deficiency
Authors: Wang Weidong , Li Chunling , Summer Sandra N. , Falk Sandor , Cadnapaphornchai Melissa A. , Chen Yung-Chang , Schrier Robert W.
Published: December 2005

Urinary diluting ability and protein abundance of renal aquaporins (AQPs) and ion transporters in glucocorticoid-deficient (GD) rats were examined at baseline and in response to oral water loading. Rats underwent bilateral adrenalectomy followed by aldosterone (GD) or aldosterone + dexamethasone (CTL) replacement. Before oral water loading, urinary output was significantly decreased and urinary osmolality (Uosm) was increased in GD compared with CTL rats. Protein abundance of inner medullary AQP2 (148 ± 18%), phosphorylated AQP2 (pAQP2, 156 ± 13%), and AQP3 (145 ± 8%) was significantly upregulated in GD compared with CTL rats (all P < 0.05). GD rats also demonstrated a marked reduction in urinary Na+excretion compared with pair-fed CTL rats. Na+-K+-2Cl−cotransporter, Na+/H+exchanger type 3, and cortical β- and γ-subunits of the epithelial Na+channel were significantly upregulated in GD rats. At 1 h after an acute water load (40 ml/kg by oral gavage), GD rats demonstrated a decrease in percent water excretion (5 ± 1 vs. 33 ± 9%, P < 0.01) and urinary output (33 ± 12 vs. 250 ± 65 μl·kg−1·min−1, P < 0.05) and an increase in Uosm(1,894 ± 292 vs. 316 ± 92 mosmol/kgH2O, P < 0.001) compared with CTL rats. Plasma AVP was increased (1.6 ± 0.2 vs. 0.9 ± 0.2 pg/ml, P < 0.05), as was protein expression of inner medullary AQP2 (149 ± 5%) and pAQP2 (177 ± 9%, P < 0.01), in GD compared with CTL rats; apical expression of AQP2 was maintained in GD rats. The vasopressin V2receptor antagonist OPC-31260 increased percent water excretion and urinary output and reduced Uosmcompared with vehicle-treated GD rats. OPC-31260 also reversed the increased abundance and apical trafficking of inner medullary AQP2 and pAQP2 protein in GD rats. In conclusion, enhanced protein abundance of Na+transporters and Na+channels with Na+retention occurred with GD. OPC-31260 reversed upregulation and apical trafficking of AQP2 and pAQP2 in association with improved urinary diluting capacity and increased water excretion after oral water loading.
Visual Cortical Recovery From Reverse Occlusion Depends on Concordant Binocular Experience
Authors: Faulkner Stuart D. , Vorobyov Vasily , Sengpiel Frank
Published: December 2005

The effects of early monocular deprivation on visual acuity and visual cortical responses can be reversed quickly if vision is restored to the deprived eye and the other eye is deprived instead, a procedure known as reverse occlusion. However, recovery of vision through the originally deprived eye (ODE) is not stable. Following re-opening of the recently deprived (originally nondeprived) eye (ONDE), vision in the ODE typically deteriorates rapidly, possibly because of competitive interactions, whereas vision in the ONDE also remains compromised, resulting in bilateral amblyopia, the reasons for which are unknown. Here we monitor the physiological changes in the visual cortex during recovery from reverse occlusion in a longitudinal study, using optical imaging of intrinsic signals and single-cell recording in anesthetized cats. We show that a brief period of just 4 days of concordant binocular vision intercalated between the two periods of monocular experience allows close to equal responses to develop through both eyes, both in terms of cortical territory and orientation selectivity. In contrast, with no binocular vision or discordant binocular experience, cortical territory dominated by the ONDE is significantly reduced, and orientation tuning of cells dominated by the ODE is wider than that of cells dominated by the ONDE. These results support the notion that a brief period of binocular vision is sufficient to prevent bilateral acuity loss caused by reverse occlusion.
Histamine Excites Neonatal Rat Sympathetic Preganglionic Neurons In Vitro Via Activation of H1 Receptors
Authors: Whyment Andrew D. , Blanks Andrew M. , Lee Kevin , Renaud Leo P. , Spanswick David
Published: December 2005

The role of histamine in regulating excitability of sympathetic preganglionic neurons (SPNs) and the expression of histamine receptor mRNA in SPNs was investigated using whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiological recording techniques combined with single-cell reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in transverse neonatal rat spinal cord slices. Bath application of histamine (100 μM) or the H1 receptor agonist histamine trifluoromethyl toluidide dimaleate (HTMT; 10 μM) induced membrane depolarization associated with a decrease in membrane conductance in the majority (70%) of SPNs tested, via activation of postsynaptic H1 receptors negatively coupled to one or more unidentified K+ conductances. Histamine and HTMT application also induced or increased the amplitude and/or frequency of membrane potential oscillations in electrotonically coupled SPNs. The H2 receptor agonist dimaprit (10 μM) or the H3 receptor agonist imetit (100 nM) were without significant effect on the membrane properties of SPNs. Histamine responses were sensitive to the H1 receptor antagonist triprolidine (10 μM) and the nonselective potassium channel blocker barium (1 mM) but were unaffected by the H2 receptor antagonist tiotidine (10 μM) and the H3 receptor antagonist, clobenpropit (5 μM). Single cell RT-PCR revealed mRNA expression for H1 receptors in 75% of SPNs tested, with no expression of mRNA for H2, H3, or H4 receptors. These data represent the first demonstration of H1 receptor expression in SPNs and suggest that histamine acts to regulate excitability of these neurons via a direct postsynaptic effect on H1 receptors.
BDNF-mediated enhancement of inflammation and injury in the aging heart
Authors: Cai Dongqing , Holm Jacquelyne M. , Duignan Inga J. , Zheng Jingang , Xaymardan Munira , Chin Andrew , Ballard Victoria L. T. , Bella Jonathan N. , Edelberg Jay M.
Published: December 2005

Aging is associated with shifts in autocrine and paracrine pathways in the cardiac vasculature that may contribute to the risk of cardiovascular disease in older persons. To elucidate the molecular basis of these changes in vivo, phage-display biopanning of 3- and 18-mo-old mouse hearts was performed that identified peptide epitopes with homology to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in old but not young phage pools. Quantification of cardiac phage binding by titration and immunostaining after injection with BDNF-like phage identified a twofold increased density of the BDNF receptor, truncated Trk B, in the aging hearts. Studies focused on the receptor ligand using a rat model of transient myocardial ischemia revealed increases in cardiac BDNF associated with local mononuclear infiltrates in 24- but not 4-mo-old rats. To investigate these changes, both 4- and 24-mo-old rat hearts were treated with intramyocardial injections of BDNF (or PBS control), demonstrating significant inflammatory increases with activated macrophage (ED1+) in BDNF-treated aging hearts compared with aging controls and similarly treated young hearts. Additional studies with permanent coronary occlusion following intramyocardial growth factor pretreatment revealed that BDNF significantly increased the extent of myocardial injury in older rat hearts (BDNF 35 ± 10% vs. PBS 16.2 ± 7.9% left ventricular injury; P < 0.05) without affecting younger hearts (BDNF 15 ± 5.1% vs. PBS 14.5 ± 6.0% left ventricular injury). Overall, these studies suggest that age-associated changes in BDNF-Trk B pathways may predispose the aging heart to increased injury after acute myocardial infarction and potentially contribute to the enhanced severity of cardiovascular disease in older individuals.
Ringing in Proliferation: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb Network
Authors: Montgomery Alexander H.
Published: December 2005

The nuclear nonproliferation regime has come under attack from proliferation determinists, who argue that resolute proliferants connected by decentralized networks can be stopped only through the use of aggressive export controls or regime change. Proliferation pragmatists counter that nuclear aspirants are neither as resolved nor as advanced as determinists claim. A technical review of recent proliferators' progress reveals that Iran, North Korea, and Libya (before it renounced its nuclear program) have been unable to significantly cut development times; the evidence that these regimes are dead set on proliferating and cannot be persuaded to give up their nuclear programs is not compelling. Because these states lack tacit knowledge, the most effective way to dissolve the hub-and-spoke or star-shaped structures of their nuclear and ballistic missile networks is to target the hubs-that is, second-tier proliferators such as Pakistan that have assisted these states with their nuclear and missile programs. Past strategies aimed at dissuading proliferants have been most successful when they combine diplomatic, social, and economic benefits with credible threats and clear red lines. The United States should therefore use these strategies instead of regime change to target current and potential hub states to halt further proliferation.
Counterforce Revisited: Assessing the Nuclear Posture Review's New Missions
Authors: Glaser Charles L. , Fetter Steve
Published: December 2005

Current U.S. nuclear strategy identifies new nuclear counterforce missions as a means of impeding the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The strategy appears to overvalue these counterforce missions. U.S. conventional weapons can destroy most targets that can be destroyed with nuclear weapons; only moderately deep and precisely located targets can be destroyed only by nuclear weapons. In addition, the benefits of nuclear counterforce-which could include deterrence, damage limitation, and the continued ability of the United States to pursue its foreign policy objectives-are relatively small, because the United States possesses large nuclear forces and highly effective conventional forces. Finally, nuclear counterforce would bring a variety of costs, including an increased probability of accidental war and unnecessary preemptive attacks in a severe crisis. Nevertheless, the case for nuclear counterforce is stronger than during the Cold War, when the enormous size and redundancy of U.S. and Soviet forces rendered counterforce useless. When facing a small nuclear force, the United States may decide to use counterforce to limit damage. Although complex trade-offs are involved, if there are critical targets that can be destroyed only with nuclear weapons, then under a narrow set of conditions the benefits of planning for damage limitation might exceed the dangers. The United States must not, however, rely on nuclear counterforce to support a more assertive foreign policy; doing so would unjustifiably increase the probability of nuclear war.
To Our Children's Children's Children: From Promoting to Achieving Compliance in High Seas Fisheries
Authors: Rayfuse Rosemary
Published: December 2005

Regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs) have adopted a range of measures aimed at promoting compliance with the conservation and management measures they adopt and at deterring IUU fishing. However, enforcement of those measures continues to be problematic. This article reviews current compliance and enforcement measures, and discusses their shortcomings. It then examines the legal basis for the adoption by RFMOs of an expanded range of measures aimed at strengthening their enforcement capability and provides practical suggestions as to the possible content of those new measures. Particular attention is paid to the modus operandi of international co-operation and the emerging practice of non-flag state enforcement.
Fishing Aspirations and Fishing Capacity: Two Key Management Issues
Authors: Metzner Rebecca
Published: December 2005

This article explores a variety of topics related to fishing aspirations and capacity management—two key components of effective management of high seas fisheries. Because of the profound influence of capacity management and capacity reduction measures on the way participants give effect to their aspirations and conduct their fishing operations, the article details the critical linkages between established capacity management options and their respective abilities to address capacity concerns, affect fishing behaviour, and accommodate fishing aspirations. The article begins with a discussion of fishing aspirations, examines established capacity management measures, and considers some of the challenges and opportunities for addressing fishing aspirations and capacity management in high seas fisheries.
Effects of Mechanical Vibration on Cell Density and Cell Morphology in the Dynamic Microcellular Foaming Process
Authors: Zhu Wenli , Zhou Nanqiao , Qu Jinping , Xu Wen , Kong Lei
Published: December 2005

During the microcellular foaming extrusion process, the cell density in the foam could be increased by shear effects due to improved shear energy, which contributes to the free energy for bubble nucleation. However, the cells might also be deformed when the shear stress is high. In order to increase the cell density without destroying the cell structure, mechanical vibration induced by electromagnetic field is introduced into the foaming process. A novel electromagnetic dynamic foaming simulator has been designed to investigate the effects of vibration amplitude and frequency on cell density and cell morphology of foam samples during the dynamic foaming process for polystyrene (PS) microcellular plastics when using supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO2)as a blowing agent. Optimal foaming temperature, gas mixing time, and appropriate shear rate are also investigated when using the dynamic foaming simulator. It was found that excessive shear effects in the stable foaming process will stretch the cells in the direction of shear stress and decrease the cell density. However, when the vibration is introduced into the foaming process at optimal foaming temperature and appropriate gas mixing time, the cell diameter can be decreased and cell density can be increased at a lower shear rate, while the cells can maintain the spherical shape, since the total shear energy is increased, but the shear stress in the direction of the melt flow is not sharply increased.
Microcellular Injection Molded Wood Fiber-PP Composites: Part I - Effect of Chemical Foaming Agent Content on Cell Morphology and Physico-mechanical Properties
Authors: Bledzki Andrzej K. , Faruk Omar
Published: December 2005

Microcellular wood fiber reinforced polymer materials have important applications because of their ability to reduce the density of automotive components due to their structure-property advantages. This research investigates the effects of chemical foaming agent content on cell morphology, density, and mechanical (tensile, flexural, and impact) properties of microcellular injection molded wood fiber reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites. The effects of various concentrations (2-5 wt% of the composites) of the exothermic chemical foaming agent on the properties of the composites was studied with a view of establishing the concentration-structure-property relationships for these materials.

The results indicate that exothermic 2 wt% content shows finer microcellular structure than other contents, dependent on wood fiber content. Density was reduced with all foaming agent contents, to a maximum of 30%, and decreased up to 0.739 g/cm3 at wood fiber content of 30 wt% with coupling agent. Mechanical properties increased nearly 80% with the addition of coupling agent.
Agent Directed HLA Simulation for Complex Supply Chain Modeling
Authors: Bruzzone Agostino G. , Mosca Roberto , Revetria Roberto , Bocca Enrico , Briano Enrico
Published: December 2005

The authors outline a new modeling methodology designed to simulate a complex logistics network and to ensure interoperability through application of Intelligent Agent High-Level Architecture for distributed supply chain management.
Optimizing the Operation of a Toll Plaza System Using Simulation: A Methodology
Authors: Sadoun Balqies
Published: December 2005

Many urban areas and states are facing an increase in population density and the industrial base, creating traffic congestion and jams at toll plazas on major highways during rush hours. This article provides a detailed study and analysis of the performance evaluation of a toll plaza using discrete event simulation modeling. Under a given time-dependent traffic flow and a set of specified model parameters, the required optimal number of tollbooths and the resulting mean delay can be estimated with the discrete event simulation model. The results show that a toll plaza that has a shorter delay under light load conditions is more sensitive to variations in service type and the number of toll plazas. The results show that the performance of toll plazas improves as the number of tollbooths increases because less time is spent in queue.
A Simulation Study for Implementing Color Rescheduling Storage in an Automotive Factory
Authors: Moon Dug Hee , Kim Ha Seok , Song Cheng
Published: December 2005

This article outlines a simulation study relating to the design and the implementation of color rescheduling storage (CRS) in an automotive factory. In a painting shop, the colors of vehicles are changed frequently according to the assembly schedule. When the color of a vehicle is changed, the cleaning process of the painting gun is necessary, which generates a cost. The major objective of CRS is to reduce the changeover cost in the painting process by grouping vehicles with the same color. In this article, a case study of CRS in an automotive factory is presented. The procedure for designing CRS is explained, and the storage/retrieval algorithms are suggested. The proposed system is verified using simulation models, and comparisons among alternatives are examined to determine the best design. The authors also investigate the effect of color distribution on the system performance measures.
Simulation and Analysis of a Shared Extended Mind
Authors: Bosse Tibor , Jonker Catholijn M. , Schut Martijn C. , Treur Jan
Published: December 2005

Some types of animals exploit patterns created in the environment as external mental states, thus obtaining an extension of their mind. In the case of social animals, the creation and exploitation of such patterns can be shared, which supports a form of shared extended mind or collective intelligence. This article explores this shared extended mind principle for social animals in more detail. The focus is on formal analysis and formalization of the dynamic properties of the processes involved, both at the local level (the basic mechanisms) and the global level (the emerging properties of the whole), and their relationships. A case study in social ant behavior in which the shared extended mind plays an important role is used as an illustration. For this case, simulations are described based on specifications of local properties, and global properties are specified and verified.
A Novel Small-World Model: Using Social Mirror Identities for Epidemic Simulations
Authors: Huang Chung-Yuan , Sun Chuen-Tsai , Hsieh Ji-Lung , Chen Yi-Ming Arthur , Lin Holin
Published: December 2005

The authors propose a small-world network model that combines cellular automata with the social mirror identities of daily-contact networks for purposes of performing epidemiological simulations. The social mirror identity concept was established to integrate human long-distance movement and daily visits to fixed locations. After showing that the model is capable of displaying such small-world effects as low degree of separation and relatively high degree of clustering on a societal level, the authors offer proof of its ability to display R0 properties—considered central to all epidemiological studies. To test their model, they simulated the 2003 severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak.
A Petri Nets-Based Scheduling Methodology for Multipurpose Batch Plants
Authors: Riera Daniel , Narciso Mercedes , Benqlilou Chouaib
Published: December 2005

This article presents an optimization methodology of batch production processes assembled by shared resources that rely on a mapping of state events into time events, allowing in this way the straightforward use of well-consolidated scheduling policies developed for manufacturing systems. A technique to generate the timed Petri net representation from a continuous dynamic representation (DAE systems) of the production system is presented together with the main characteristics of a Petri nets-based tool implemented for optimization purposes. This article describes also how the implemented tool generates the coverability tree and how it can be pruned by a general-purpose heuristic. An example of a distillation process with two shared batch resources is used to illustrate the proposed optimization methodology.
System Simulation of a Differential Radiometer Using Standard RF-Microwave Simulators
Authors: Pascual J. P. , Aja B. , de la Fuente M. L. , Pomposo T. , Artal E.
Published: December 2005

A complete radiometer simulation framework with special emphasis on high frequencies and switched system performance is proposed. The simulation procedures have been tested on a system configuration used in a branch of the 30-GHz Planck Radiometer, which detects radiation from the cosmic microwave background in a window with 20% relative bandwidth centered at 30 GHz. The goal of the article is not to obtain detailed conclusions about this radiometer in particular but to test the viability of proposed techniques in a realistic context. Basic RF performance of an ideal and a more realistic version of the radiometer is compared. Furthermore, the whole system simulation is implemented in the frequency domain and the time domain, on the same platform that is used to design separate microwave components, introducing realistic parameters for the high-frequency components, such us measured S parameters of the amplifiers and measured current-voltage characteristics of the detectors.
A comparison of multiple 5-HT receptors in two tasks measuring impulsivity
Authors: Talpos John C. , Wilkinson Lawrence S. , Robbins Trevor W.
Published: December 2005

Impulsivity has often been assumed to be a unitary construct. However dissociable forms of impulsive behaviour may exist, each with distinct neurochemical underpinnings. To test this hypothesis, behavioural effects of three partially selective serotonergic (5-HT) ligands, ketanserin (5-HT2A, C receptor antagonist), SER-082 (5-HT2C, B receptor antagonist) and SB-270146-A (5-HT6 receptor antagonist) were compared in two tests of impulsivity. The five-choice serial reaction time task (5-csrtt) and a delayed reward task were chosen as they measure theoretically different types of impulsivity, behavioural inhibition versus choice preference for a delayed reward. Dissociation was seen between the effects of ketanserin, which decreased impulsivity in the 5-csrtt, but had no effect on the delayed reward task, and SER-082, which had no effect on the 5-csrtt, but decreased impulsive responding in the delayed reward task. SB-270146-A had no effect in either paradigm. The results suggest that the 5-csrtt and the delayed reward task do in fact measure different types of impulsive behaviour, which are at least partially neurochemically distinct.
Cannabis use, cognitive performance and mood in a sample of workers
Authors: Wadsworth E. J. K. , Moss S. C. , Simpson S. A. , Smith A. P.
Published: December 2005

There are well documented acute and chronic effects of cannabis use on mental functioning. However, less is known about any effects on cognition within the context of work and everyday life.

The aim of the study was to examine any association between cannabis use and cognitive performance, mood and human error at work.

Cannabis users and controls completed a battery of laboratory based computer tasks measuring mood and cognitive function pre- and post-work at the start and end of a working week. They also completed daily diaries reporting their work performance.

Cannabis use was associated with impairment in both cognitive function and mood, though cannabis users reported no more workplace errors than controls. Cannabis use was associated with lower alertness and slower response organization. In addition, users experienced working memory problems at the start, and psychomotor slowing and poorer episodic recall at the end of the working week.

This pattern of results suggests two possible effects. First a ‘hangover’-type effect which may increase with frequency of use. Second a subtle effect on cognitive function, perhaps more apparent under cognitive load and/or fatigue, which may increase with more prolonged use. The results also highlight the importance of the timing of testing within the context and routine of everyday life.
Early effects of olanzapine on serum levels of ghrelin, adiponectin and leptin in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Hosojima Hideki , Togo Takashi , Odawara Toshinari , Hasegawa Koichi , Miura Satoshi , Kato Yuiko , Kanai Akiko , Kase Akihiko , Uchikado Hirotake , Hirayasu Yoshio
Published: December 2005

Although treatment with antipsychotics, particularly olanzapine and clozapine, has been implicated in weight gain and higher incidence of diabetes, the mechanism of these adverse reactions remains unclear. The purposes of this study were to explore the early effects of olanzapine on serum levels of ghrelin, adiponectin and leptin, three recently identified hormones that play crucial roles in the regulation of energy balance and glucose metabolism. Thirteen patients with schizophrenia who had not received any medication in the 4 weeks prior to this study were included. The patients received olanzapine at an average dose of 14.5mg/day. Serum levels of ghrelin, adiponectin, leptin and insulin, as well as weight and fasting glucose, were investigated at the baseline and at 4 weeks. Serum ghrelin levels had decreased ( p 0.03) and leptin had increased ( p 0.02), while adiponectin and insulin levels had not significantly changed at Week 4 ( p 0.29 and p 0.25, respectively). Weight had increased ( p 0.01), while fasting glucose had not significantly changed ( p 0.46). These findings suggest that ghrelin levels decrease and leptin levels increase after initiation of olanzapine therapy. Weight gain is also considered to be an early change, while change in insulin sensitivity is not an early change of treatment with olanzapine. Further large-scale and longitudinal studies are warranted to elucidate metabolic changes involving ghrelin, adiponectin, leptin and insulin and their impact on weight and glucose metabolism during treatment with olanzapine and other antipsychotics.
Rapid dose titration of quetiapine for the treatment of acute schizophrenia and acute mania: a case series
Authors: Pajonk Frank-Gerald B. , Schwertner Anne K. , Seelig Marko Alexander
Published: December 2005

To quickly reduce symptoms and to optimize long-term outcome, patients with an acute episode of schizophrenia or mania require prompt treatment intervention. The atypical antipsychotic quetiapine (‘Seroquel’) has been approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. For patients with acute symptoms such as aggression or agitation, higher doses of quetiapine than the recommended initiation schedule are often required. This report presents the tolerability findings from rapid initiation with high-dose quetiapine for eight patients who were consecutively admitted with acute symptoms of schizophrenia ( n 5) or mania ( n 3). The results from this case series show that quetiapine treatment could be safely titrated at a more rapid rate and to doses greater than that described in the current prescribing information. For most patients, rapid dose escalation was well tolerated; no serious side effects were observed and vital clinical parameters were unchanged; one patient experienced transient somnolence. In conclusion, these results suggest that rapid dose escalation of quetiapine could be a useful treatment approach for acutely ill patients with schizophrenia and bipolar mania in order to improve acute symptoms and support the need for randomized controlled trials. However, dose adjustments should be considered with respect to each patient’s individual level of tolerability.
Switching antipsychotics: an updated review with a focus on quetiapine
Authors: Weiden Peter J.
Published: December 2005

Atypical antipsychotics offer broader efficacy and improved tolerability compared with conventional agents. Many patients currently treated with conventional antipsychotics continue to experience persistent symptoms or troublesome side effects and may benefit from a change to one of the newer atypical agents. There are also significant differences in the side-effect profiles of the atypicals, such that a switch from one atypical agent to another could offer advantages to many patients. Unfortunately, many clinicians remain uncertain about the switching process and are reluctant to initiate change. The aim of this review is to identify the indications for a switch in antipsychotic therapy with a focus on recent switching data for the atypical antipsychotic, quetiapine. The clinical aspects of quetiapine’s receptor binding characteristics are reviewed including the implications of the low D2 antagonist properties that make quetiapine the treatment of choice when EPS persists with other atypical antipsychotics. Practical guidelines are given for managing the process of changeover, for avoiding pitfalls and for maximizing the chances of a successful switch. For example, when managing the antipsychotic crossover, it is important to consider the psychological effects of switching arising from symptom and side-effect changes. Finally, advice is provided on the assessments necessary when evaluating the success of a change in therapy, together with guidance on the optimal duration of treatment trials.
The influence of central administration of dopaminergic and cholinergic agents on morphine-induced amnesia in morphine-sensitized mice
Authors: Zarrindast Mohammad-Reza , Farahmandfar Maryam , Rostami Parvin , Rezayof Ameneh
Published: December 2005

In the present study, effects of intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of dopaminergic and cholinergic agents on morphine-induced amnesia in morphine-sensitized mice were investigated by using a one-trial passive avoidance task. Amnesia induced by pre-training morphine was significantly reversed in morphine-sensitized mice, which had previously received once daily injections of morphine (20 and 30mg/kg, s.c.) for 3 days. Three daily injections of SKF 38393 (1, 2 and 4 g/mouse, i.c.v.) or SCH 23390 (0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 g/mouse, i.c.v.) before morphine, and during morphine-sensitization, decreased and increased the amnesia induced by pre-training morphine respectively. Three daily injections of quinpirole (0.3, 1 and 3 g/mouse, i.c.v.) or sulpiride (0.03, 0.1, 0.3 and 1 g/mouse, i.c.v.) before morphine, also decreased and increased the amnesia induced by pre-training morphine respectively. Morphine-sensitized mice received similar injections of cholinergic agents. Three daily injections of physostigmine (1, 3 and 5 g/mouse, i.c.v.) or atropine (1, 4 and 7 g/mouse, i.c.v.) before morphine, and during morphine-sensitization, decreased and increased the amnesia induced by pre-training morphine respectively. Three daily injections of nicotine (0.75, 1 and 2 g/mouse, i.c.v.) or mecamylamine (1, 3 and 6 g/mouse, i.c.v.) before morphine, also decreased and increased the amnesia induced by pre-training morphine respectively. The results suggest that morphine sensitization affects the impairment of memory formation and thus it is postulated that central dopaminergic and cholinergic systems may play an important role in this effect.
How does formal instrumental music tuition (FIMT) impact on self- and teacher-evaluations of adolescents’ computer-based compositions?
Authors: Seddon Frederick A. , O’Neill Susan A.
Published: December 2005

This study examined 48 computer-based compositions produced by adolescents (13-14 years old) using evaluations by specialist music teachers and the adolescents’ self-evaluations and self-assessments. Based on previous research (Seddon and O’Neill, 2001), we expected that the teachers’ evaluations of the compositions would not differentiate between the compositions by adolescents with or without 2-4 years prior experience of formal instrumental music tuition (FIMT). We also predicted that the self-evaluations and self-assessments of adolescents with FIMT would be higher than the self-evaluations and self-assessments by adolescents without FIMT. The results supported our predictions suggesting that adolescents’ self-evaluations of their ability to compose and their self-assessments of their own compositions are determined by their levels of self-perceived competence, and that this is influenced by whether or not they have previous experience of FIMT. Implications for the use of self-evaluations and self-assessments in music education are discussed.
Self-evaluation, creativity, and musical achievement
Authors: Priest Thomas
Published: December 2005

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between students’ self-assessments of their musical compositions and experts’ assessments. College students ( N = 54) who were enrolled in a music fundamentals course for elementary education students participated in this study. Each student completed three composition-performance assignments using a soprano recorder. Upon completing each assignment, students were asked to self-administer controlling and informational feedback. The third set of compositions was used as a measure of the students’ compositional creativity. Independent judges reached acceptable levels of agreement in assessing compositional creativity and other dimensions allowing students to be placed into high-, middle-, and low-creativity groups. The students’ informational feedback was analyzed and classified. Chi-square analyses of the students’ informational feedback yielded statistically significant differences among the three creativity groups. Students in the high- and middle-creativity groups were more likely to cite experimentation and express optimism than students in the low creativity group ( p < .05); the high- and middle-creativity groups were also more likely to cite eight or more factors in their self-assessments ( p < .001). Students in the high-creativity group were more likely to employ an expressive intent in their title and engage in critical analyses than students in the middle- and low-creativity groups ( p < .05). There was no significant correlation between the judges’ evaluations and the students’ controlling feedback.
Implication and expectation in music: a zygonic model
Authors: Ockelford Adam
Published: December 2005

This article examines implication and expectation in music, taking as its starting point music-theoretical and music-psychological work ranging from the seminal thinking of Meyer (1956, 1967, 1973) to its development in the theories of Narmour (1990, 1992) and subsequent empirical and theoretical investigation by, for example, Schellenberg (1996, 1997), Von Hippel and Huron (2000) and Aarden (2003). Other psychological approaches, such as those adopted by Jones (1981, 1982, 1992) and Bharucha (1987, 1999), are considered too. The most important contemporary reference point, however, is Huron’s latest extended thinking on expectation (forthcoming), which summarizes, consolidates and develops a wide range of theoretical and empirical work in the field. These diverse perspectives on musical implication and expectation are analysed using the ‘zygonic’ theory of musical understanding recently developed by Ockelford (for example, 1999, 2002, 2004, 2005a, 2005b). This holds that the cognition of structure stems from a sense of derivation arising from the presence of repetition in certain contexts. Using this framework, a new, composite theory of expectation in music is developed, which acknowledges the potential implications of three sources of regularity in music: patterns within groups of notes, and between them - as encoded in short-term memory and long-term, both veridically and schematically. Finally, the phenomenological relevance of the new model to ‘typical’ listening experiences is discussed, and the need for future empirical work is set out.
‘Bridge-mixing’ of Gasified Fuel Vapors and Simultaneous Ignitions of Different Combustibles at Flashover
Authors: Chow W. K. , Han S. S. , Du W. F.
Published: December 2005

‘Bridge-mixing’ of igniting fuel vapors gasified from different combustibles by thermal radiation during flashover is presented in this article. This explains why combustible items of different ignition temperatures appear to be ignited at roughly the same time in flashover.

Sample cubes of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate (PC), and wood are tested in a cone calorimeter at high thermal radiative heat fluxes of 50 and 70 kW m 2. Two samples are tested each time. Different arrangements of the fuel tray are made to give different mixing of fuel vapors.

It is observed that fuel vapors gasified from combustibles with different ignition temperatures are ignited simultaneously under some mixing conditions, depending on the geometry of the fuel tray under the cone. Mixing of gasified fuel vapors by the fire-induced airflow in rooms of different geometry is a key factor in igniting each combustible item. This releases more heat and generates flames to give conditions satisfying the flashover criteria.
Core/Shell Macrobeads for the Protection of Islets from Immune System Rejection
Authors: Choi Young Hwan , Lee Jin Ho , Yuk Soon Hong , Suh Sun Hee , Yoon Kun-Ho
Published: December 2005

Core/shell macrobeads, composed of a hydrogel core and a biodegradable polymeric shell, were designed and evaluated for the protection of islets from both fibrous tissue development as well as the modulation of the immune system rejection response. The core/shell macrobeads (2,000μm diameter) were prepared with approximately 150μm thick polymeric shells. Islets isolated from pancreas of C57/BL6 mice were encapsulated in these core/shell macrobeads. The islets-loaded core/shell macrobeads were planted in the peritoneal cavity of diabetes mellitus-induced C57/BL6 mice and the blood glucose concentrations were measured.
Evaluation of Subretinal Implants Coated with Amorphous Aluminum Oxide and Diamond-like Carbon
Authors: Sweitzer Robyn , Scholz Carmen , Montezuma Sandra , Rizzo Joseph F.
Published: December 2005

Retinal prostheses may be used to support patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or retinitis pigmentosa (RP). A hermetic encapsulation of the poly(imide) (PI)-based prosthesis is important in order to prevent the leakage of water and ions into the electric circuitry embedded in the poly(imide) matrix. The deposition of amorphous aluminum oxide (by sputtering) and diamond like carbon (by pulsed laser ablation) were made for applications in retinal prostheses. The thin films obtained were characterized for composition, thickness, adhesion and smoothness by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, profilometry and light microscopy. Biocompatibility was tested in vivo by implanting coated specimen subretinally in the eye of Yucatan pigs. While amorphous aluminum oxide is more readily deposited with sufficient adhesion quality, superior biocompatibility behavior was shown by diamond-like carbon. Amorphous aluminum oxide had more adverse effects and caused more severe damage to the retinal tissue.
Biocompatible Fibroin Blended Films with Recombinant Human-like Collagen for Hepatic Tissue Engineering
Authors: Hu K. , Lv Q. , Cui F. Z. , Feng Q. L. , Kong X. D. , Wang H. L. , Huang L. Y. , Li T.
Published: December 2005

Recombinant human-like collagen (RHLC) was blended with fibroin to prepare a novel biocompatible film as a scaffold material for hepatic tissue engineering applications. Solution blending was used to incorporate RHLC with silk fibroin to enhance the blend films biocompatibility and hydrophilicity while maintaining elasticity. FTIR and XRD analysis indicated that hydrogen bonds had formed between fibroin and RHLC, while SEM microscopy data confirmed that homogeneous microstructures were still retained after the introduction of RHLC with fibroin. Contact angle measurements indicated that the hydrophilicity of the fibroin/RHLC films was greater after RHLC was added. The elongation at break in the wet state was not markedly changed after blending the recombinant human-like collagen, which implied that flexibility was maintained. The proliferation and viability of the cell cultures on fibroin/RHLC films were significantly enhanced compared to pure fibroin films or tissue culture plates.
Stress Analysis of a Thermoplastic Composite Disc under Uniform Temperature Distribution
Authors: Sayman Onur
Published: December 2005

In this study, an elastic-plastic stress analysis is carried out on a composite thermoplastic disc reinforced by steel fibers, curvilinear. Radial and tangential stresses are obtained under a uniform temperature distribution. Thermal stresses occur in the disc for the uniform temperature distribution due to the different thermal expansions in radial and tangential directions. The magnitude of the tangential stress component for elastic and elastic-plastic cases is higher than that of the radial stress component. The tangential stress component is compressive and tensile on the inner and outer surfaces, respectively. It is the highest on the inner surface. The elastic-plastic solution is performed for the plastic region expanded around the inner and outer surfaces by an analytical formulation and a numerical solution. The solution is also carried out by the finite element method (ANSYS solution). These two solutions give similar results. The intensities of the residual stress component of the tangential stress and plastic flow are the highest at the inner surface.
Implementation of a Model of Coupled Elastic-Plastic Unilateral Damage Material to Finite Element Code
Authors: Bielski J. , Skrzypek J. J. , Kuna-Ciskal H.
Published: December 2005

The continuum damage mechanics-based elasto-plastic damage theory, that extends the total form of Hayakawa and Murakami equations, is developed. Weak elastic-plastic dissipation coupling is assumed by the use of two dissipation potentials, plastic and damage, where only isotropic plasticity and damage hardening is included, whereas kinematic hardening is not accounted for. Unilateral damage condition, based on the concept of generalized projection operators, accounts for a partial damage deactivation, which allows for an influence of negative principal components of the stress tensor on damage evolution. The incremental representation of the elastic-damage constitutive equations is derived. Both elastic-damage and plastic-damage compliance matrices are developed for plane stress condition, and implemented to ABAQUS finite element code by the user-supplied procedure for non-standard material properties. Effective computation algorithm for plastic and damage loading/unloading conditions based on the doubly passive predictor and plastic-damage corrector approach is proposed. Numerical examples are presented by applying the model calibration by Hayakawa and Murakami for the spheroidized graphite cast iron FCD400. The examples illustrate the capability of the model to describe elastic-plastic damage evolution under monotonic loading. Under reverse loading conditions a partial elastic stiffness recovery was demonstrated on the consecutive increasing strain-controlled loading cycles and some limitation of the model was shown.