bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of Pre-Eclampsia in Women with Low Serum Ionized Magnesium
Authors: Parveen Mehera , Fatema Jinat , Begum Kazi Farhana , Chakma Bidisha , Chowdhury Tanzina lveen , Das Tripti Rani
Published: February 2024

Background: There are many risk factors of development of preeclampsia among the pregnant women. Objective: The purpose of the present study has set out to assess the relationship between preeclampsia and blood ionized magnesium levels.

Methodology: This case-control study was performed in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dhaka Medical College and Hospital from January 2020 to December 2021 for a period of 2(two) years. Pregnant patients who showed preeclampsia were all the amounts of ionized magnesium in venous blood collected from patients with preeclampsia. Additionally, the magnesium levels of age-matched, healthy pregnant women were determined.

Results: A total number of 100 pregant women included in this study of which 50 pregnant women were designated as case and the rest 50 pregnant women were control. It has found that serum levels of ionized magnesium were significantly decreased among preeclamptic cases (0.58 ± 0.06) as compared to normal pregnancies (0.72 ± 0.05) (p < 0.001). Using a cut-off value of 0.7 mmol/l, the serum ionized magnesium level was divided into two groups and was compared between cases and controls. The risk of developing preeclampsia was more than 33 (95% CI = 10.9 – 102.1) times higher in pregnant women with serum magnesium level < 0.7 mmol/L than those pregnant women with serum magnesium level 0.7 or > 0.7 mmol/L.

Conclusion: Low level of serum ionized magnesium is a risk factor of development of preeclampsia.
Effects of Adenosine and Lactate Coexistence on NK92 Cell
Authors: Xu Xinjie , Nie Wenjie , Ding Fangfang , Chen Chun
Published: February 2024

Aims: This study aims to investigate the impact of lactate and adenosine, present in the tumor microenvironment (TME), on the immune cell immunity.

Methodology: Five groups included Adenosine concentration screening groups, L-lactic acid and Sodium L-lactate concentration groups, Adenosine + L-lactic acid and Adenosine + sodium L-lactate concentration groups were chosen to evaluate the NK92 cell functions. The proliferation ability and morphological observations of NK92 cells were assessed using a hemocytometer. The CCK-8 assay measured the inhibition of NK92 cell activity in the treatment group, while the crystal violet method evaluated the effect of NK92 cells on the killing ability of A549 cells.

Results: A concentration of 50 μM adenosine served as a reference for high adenosine experimental concentrations, demonstrating a significant impact on NK92 immune cells within the TME. The functional entity "lactic acid" revealed independent effects of lactate [La-] and hydrogen ions [H+]. Lactate enhanced cell viability but reduced NK92 cytotoxicity. Conversely, lactic acid containing hydrogen ions caused a sharp decrease in cell viability and cytotoxicity to tumor cells.

Conclusion: Elevated adenosine concentration and acidification of the tumor microenvironment significantly inhibit the ability of NK cells to kill tumor cells.
Genotypic Variation Studies in Biomass Partitioning Patterns during Post-flowering Stages under the Late Sown Conditions of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Germplasm
Authors: Vyshnavi R. G. , Samaiya R. K. , Ramakrishnan R. Shiv , Babbar Anita , Behera Karishma , Upadhyay Anubha , Nayak Preeti Sagar
Published: February 2024

This study conducted during the 2021-2022 year under field conditions investigates the genotypic variation in biomass partitioning among different chickpea genotypes during post-flowering stages, with a specific emphasis on late sown conditions. The main aim of the study was to elucidate the efficiency of resource allocation toward pod production, measured by the pod harvest index. This research enhances understanding of chickpea performance under delayed sowing conditions by examining genotypic variations in key parameters during critical post-flowering stages, specifically pod filling and seed filling. Biomass partitioning in branches and pods varied considerably during both growth stages, with branches playing a crucial role in pod development during pod filling. The transition from pod filling to seed filling stage resulted in increased biomass partitioning in pods, highlighting their importance as storage organs for seed development. Seed yield exhibited significant variability among genotypes, with some surpassing 2000 kg/ha, while pod harvest index ranged from 35.62% to 70.48%, indicating differences in resource allocation efficiency. Regression analysis showed varying degrees of association between biomass partitioning and pod harvest index, with seed yield and pod harvest index, biomass partitioning in pods exhibiting the highest explanatory power during seed filling. By studying the adaptation of plants towards biphasic and allometric allocation patterns during unfavorable conditions can result in developing the resource use efficient climate resilient varieties. These findings contribute to our understanding of crop productivity under varying environmental conditions and inform strategies for optimizing chickpea yield and resilience.
Women Empowerment Gaining Right Trajectory: A Perspective from MSME, Odisha, India
Authors: Mishra Siba Prasad , Mishra Durga Prasad , Mohapatra Saswat
Published: February 2024

In traditional male-dominated society women generally enjoy secondary status in familial and social hierarchy. The widespread condition of gender disparity may be attributed to a lack of gainful employment and fixed wages with a regular source of livelihood. The majority of women are left out of the ambit of the decision-making process due to their inferior social and economic conditions.  The status of women can be raised and gender equality can be achieved through MSME which empowers women with upward movement in economic, social and political hierarchy.  MSME facilitates women entrepreneurs to utilise their entrepreneurial skills and talent and to play leadership roles to improve the conditions of women folk. The present study focuses on the role of leading women entrepreneurs of Puri district Odisha towards the objective of empowering women. The data gathered through questionnaires, surveys, person to person interaction during field visits/workshops/seminars/presentations form the basis for developing this article. During interaction all points raised, views expressed by respondents, and suggestions gathered were recorded to organize this article. It has been observed MSME sectors have largely contributed to improving women's status through employment, skill upgradation, innovations, and encouraging participative and collaborative decisions. However, simplifying and streamlining activities related to registration, products, production, financing, training, and marketing would enhance further value addition by MSME. The insights earned during the study about ground realities, problem areas, and steps towards a solution will help the researchers, NGOs, SHGs, field agencies, donors, bankers, government institutions, corporate houses, and planners to fine-tune their approach towards women empowerment.
Impactos do governo Jair Bolsonaro para as políticas públicas de cultura do Brasil
Authors: Nogueira Bruno
Published: February 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar um panorama da atuação do governo Jair Bolsonaro, entre os anos de 2019 e 2022, nas políticas públicas de cultura do país. A partir de números, registros oficiais e na imprensa, busca pensar o impacto que este período traz para as noções de cultura, política e participação cidadã, dialogando com o suporte teórico de autores como Nestor Garcia Canclini, Albino Rubim, José Carlos Durand, Marilena Chaui, Lilia Schwarcz, Boaventura de Sousantos, Hannah Arendt, Renato Ortiz e George Yude, entre outros. A partir de uma observação de manifestações de resistência, em especial dos povos originários, encerra por trazer propostas para pensar o papel da comunicação e do letramento midiático para as políticas culturais do Brasil.
apagamento da cultura alimentar dos povos indígenas e a sistemática necropolítica dos Yanomami
Authors: Stolz Sheila , Morais da Silva Bianca , Isler da Costa Rafaela
Published: February 2024

Pretende-se realizar uma análise crítica sobre a cultura alimentar dos povos indígenas Yanomami e sua trajetória histórica no Brasil, bem como os atravessamentos causados não apenas pelo processo de colonização vivenciado e que impactou profunda e diretamente os povos originários, mas também pelas atividades garimpeiras (legais e/ou ilegais) que constantemente violam os Direitos Humanos e Fundamentais dessas pessoas e suas comunidades, seja através dos distintos tipo de violência praticadas, seja através da destruição ambiental provocada – ambas ações causadoras do estado avançado de desnutrição que atinge, há décadas, Yanomami de todas as faixas etárias impondo-lhes, mais recentemente, uma vida sem dignidade e deliberadamente destinada ao etnocídio.
Este maíz no es para pochoclos. Estrategias culturales y productivas de la cooperativa La Comunitaria en el oeste pampeano argentino
Authors: Fernández Clarisa
Published: February 2024

Este trabajo propone el análisis de las acciones llevadas adelante por la Cooperativa La Comunitaria, una organización artístico-social que cuenta con 16 años de trabajo territorial en las provincias argentinas de Buenos Aires y La Pampa. El artículo busca analizar las articulaciones posibles (conceptuales y materiales) entre políticas culturales y alimento, en una de las acciones específicas de la cooperativa: el circuito productivo del maíz. Así, el trabajo territorial de La Comunitaria articula la producción artística (teatro comunitario) con el desarrollo de proyectos productivos, buscando fortalecer  los circuitos alimenticios de subsistencia locales e impulsar el ejercicio de la ciudadanía a través de procesos de organización popular.
Dossiê - Cultura alimentar e política cultural Vol. II
Authors: Barbalho Alexandre , Severino José Roberto
Published: February 2024

Apresentação Dossiê Cultura Alimentar e Política Cultural Vol. II
Investigation of allyl‐capped carbosilane dendrimers used as crosslinker for silicone rubber
Authors: Zhao Shigui , Zhou Chuanjian , Zhang Jianming , Wang Jin , Feng Shengyu
Published: January 2006

High‐temperature vulcanized silicone rubber was prepared by using allyl‐capped carbosilane dendrimers, in which the core molecules were Si(CH2CHCH2)4 and Ph2Si(CH2CHCH2)2 as crosslinker and nanoscale reinforcing filler, respectively. Allyl‐capped carbosilane dendrimers improved the mechanical properties of silicone rubber. The optimum tensile strength and tear strength were 9.6 MPa and 31.0 kN/m, respectively, when using SiGn(allyl)m as the crosslinker and 10.1 MPa and 32.0 kN/m, respectively, when using Ph2SiGn(allyl)m as the crosslinker. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 1772–1775, 2006
Factors influencing molecular weights of methylcelluloses prepared from annual plants and juvenile eucalyptus
Authors: Ye Daiyong , Farriol Xavier
Published: January 2006

We studied the factors that influenced the molecular weights (Mw) of water‐soluble methylcelluloses prepared from annual plants and juvenile eucalyptus. Miscanthus and cardoon stalks, and bleached pulps of abaca, jute, sisal, hemp, and flax were the annual plant materials studied. A higher concentration of NaOH solution during the impregnation led to a spring cardoon methylcellulose having a lower molecular weight. As the impregnation times increased, so did the molecular weights of the water‐soluble methylcelluloses of spring cardoon. The impregnation conditions had less influence on the methylcelluloses of summer cardoon than on the methylcelluloses of spring cardoon. As the cooking times increased, so did the molecular weights of miscanthus methylcelluloses. A lower pulping severity increased the molecular weight of eucalyptus methylcellulose. The preliminary treatments (water soaking, premercerization, mercerization under pressure, and steam explosion) improved the molecular weights of water‐soluble abaca methylcelluloses. The steam explosion method was the best of the preliminary treatments for the abaca pulp. Different species led to different molecular weights for methylcelluloses synthesized from ECF bleached pulps, and these were further improved by preliminary mercerization. The molecular weight of α‐cellulose methylcellulose changed as the ratio of the methylation reagent was varied. To synthesize an optimum Mw of methylcellulose, the different raw materials can be chosen, the pulping parameters adjusted (including impregnation and cooking), the cellulose pretreated, and the methylcellulose conditions changed. The plant species is the decisive factor for the Mw of methylcellulose. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 100: 1785–1793, 2006
Does the smart guy win? An individual capability model for predicting presidential elections
Authors: Brause Alison , Cason Kathryn , Spelman William
Published: January 2006

Current models for predicting US presidential elections focus on economic growth, the popularity of the current President, and incumbency. Most presume implicitly that the election is a referendum on the performance of the sitting President and his party. Characteristics of the opponent and personal characteristics of the incumbent party's candidate are not accounted for. In this paper, we explain and test a new model drawn from the literature on the performance of corporate executives. The model relies on objective measures of the complexity with which each candidate processes information. In all presidential elections for which these measures are available, the candidate who demonstrated the greater complexity of information processing won. Adding the information processing assessment also improves the predictive performance of current models. These findings suggest that the referendum model is needlessly limited, and that voters in fact compare the expected performance of both candidates before making a decision. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Epoxidation of Olefins Using H2O2, Part II: Catalytic Activities and Mechanism
Authors: Tse Man Kin , Bhor Santosh , Klawonn Markus , Anilkumar Gopinathan , Jiao Haijun , Spannenberg Anke , Döbler Christian , Mägerlein Wolfgang , Hugl Herbert , Beller Matthias
Published: January 2006

Asymmetric epoxidation of olefins with 30 % H2O2 in the presence of [Ru(pybox)(pydic)] 1 and [Ru(pyboxazine)(pydic)] 2 has been studied in detail (pybox=pyridine‐2,6‐bisoxazoline, pyboxazine=pyridine‐2,6‐bisoxazine, pydic=2,6‐pyridinedicarboxylate). 35 Ruthenium complexes with sterically and electronically different substituents have been tested in environmentally benign epoxidation reactions. Mono‐, 1,1‐di‐, cis‐ and trans‐1,2‐di‐, tri‐, and tetra‐substituted aromatic olefins with versatile functional groups can be epoxidized with this type of catalyst in good to excellent yields (up to 100 %) with moderate to good enantioselectivies (up to 84 % ee). Additive and solvent effects as well as the relative rate of reaction with different catalysts have been established. It is shown that the presence of weak organic acids or an electron‐withdrawing group on the catalyst increases the reactivity. New insights on the reaction intermediates and reaction pathway of the ruthenium‐catalyzed epoxidation are proposed on the basis of density functional theory calculation and experiments.
Asymmetric [2+2] photocycloaddition of cycloalkenone–cyclodextrin complexes to ethylene
Authors: Furutani Akinori , Katayama Kyoshige , Uesima Yukihiro , Ogura Mikihiko , Tobe Yoshito , Kurosawa Hideo , Tsutsumi Ken , Morimoto Tsumoru , Kakiuchi Kiyomi
Published: January 2006

The enantioselective [2+2] photocycloaddition of cycloalkenone‐cyclodextrin complexes to ethylene was examined. Photoreaction of α‐, β‐, and γ‐cyclodextrin complexes of various cyclohexenonecarboxylates and cyclopentenonecarboxylates in the presence of ethylene in the solid state or in aqueous suspension gave corresponding photocycloadducts with chiral induction. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Chirality
Parental cancer
Authors: Visser Annemieke , Huizinga Gea A. , Hoekstra Harald J. , van der Graaf Winette T.A. , Hoekstra‐Weebers Josette E.H.M.
Published: January 2006

BACKGROUND

The vulnerability of children when a parent is diagnosed with cancer may depend on a variety of variables. The current study examined the impact of characteristics of 180 parents diagnosed with cancer, along with 145 spouses, on the prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems in children.

METHODS

Ill parents provided information on sociodemographics and illness‐related variables and on the prevalence of problems in children by using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Both parents completed the two subscales that measure physical functioning and mental health of the RAND‐36.

RESULTS

The family situation (single parents, no or few siblings, oldest child) was one of the most important predictors of reported problems in primary school children, whereas adolescents were reported as having more problems when parents experienced treatment complications. A decrease in ill parents' physical functioning affected primary school daughters and adolescents, and both age groups were affected by the mental health of ill parents. Problems of ill fathers did not have a different impact on children from those of ill mothers. Spouses' physical limitations were indicative for problems in primary school children, whereas a worsening parental mental health was indicative for problems in adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings illustrated that parents' characteristics must be taken into account when assessing vulnerability of children in this situation. Which variables particularly heighten the risk for problems depend on children's ages. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of superficial lymphadenopathy: a 5‐year Brazilian experience
Authors: Martins Marcos Roberto , Santos Gilda da Cunha
Published: January 2006

To determine the accuracy of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) in the diagnostic assessment of lymphadenopathies, a retrospective study was conducted on 627 cases of FNA of the lymph nodes performed at Department of Pathology, UNIFESP (Federal University of São Paulo), between 1997 and 2001. Cytology results were compared to the results of biopsies if available. The cytological diagnosis was unsatisfactory in 14.7% of cases, positive in 46%, and negative in 39.3%. Among the positive cases, 79.4% were classified as metastases, 14.2% as lymphoma, and 6.4% as indeterminate. Anatomopathological exams for the determination of cytohistological correlation were available in 218 of the 627 cases. There were three (1.88%) false‐negative and two (1.25%) false‐positive cases. Accuracy tests revealed 97.41% sensitivity, 95.45% specificity, and 96.88% efficacy, with cytohistological agreement being almost perfect (κ = 0.92). The high accuracy of this study based only on cytomorphological criteria associated to the variety of malignant neoplasias diagnosed by the procedure demonstrates its relevance on patient care, especially in areas of limited financial resources. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006; 34:130–134. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sclerosing papillary lesion of the breast: A diagnostic pitfall for malignancy in fine needle aspiration biopsy
Authors: Saad Reda S. , Kanbour‐Shakir Amal , Syed Ahmed , Kanbour Anisa
Published: January 2006

Papillary neoplasms of breast constitute a group of lesions that show broad spectrum of morphological changes, ranging from benign to malignant and posing challenges at all diagnostic levels. Some benign papillary lesions may form well‐defined solid masses with a dominant sclerosed architecture, known as complex sclerosing papillary lesion or simply sclerosing papilloma. The purpose of this study is to apply the previously published criteria for papillary lesions and to identify the cytomorphologic findings that lead to false‐positive diagnosis of these cases. We reviewed the fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNAB) of six histologically proven sclerosing papilloma that were called suspicious or malignant on FNAB. The patient age ranged from 40 to 69, with a mean of (43 ± 6) yr. Three patients presented with a palpable lump and two patients had history of fibrocystic disease. All six patients had abnormal screening mammograms. FNAB was performed using a 23‐gauge syringe attached to a commercial holder. FNA smears were markedly hypercellular with large number of epithelial fragments and papillary clusters, discohesive single cells that are hyperchromatic with mild to moderate nuclear pleomorphism. Bipolar cells were present in all cases, varying from low to abundant. Intraoperative consultation was requested on four cases. Touch preparations were made on two cases and were reported as suspicious based on the cellularity and nuclear atypia. All surgically excised specimens showed sclerosing complex papillary proliferative lesions with epithelial hyperplasia. In conclusion, FNA cytology of this proliferative lesions may be highly cellular and may display cellular atypia similar to breast carcinoma and thus leads to false‐positive interpretation. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2006; 34:114–118. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of Alkylene‐Bridged Diphenyl‐Oligoynes
Authors: Klinger Christian , Vostrowsky Otto , Hirsch Andreas
Published: January 2006

A general synthesis route for the preparation of oligoynes stabilized by alkylene bridges is reported. The corresponding macrocycles contain oligoynes with up to eight conjugated triple bonds. The stabilization of the conjugated sp‐oligoyne rods was achieved by bulky terminal phenylic endcaps spanning the alkylene chain to isolate the individual acetylenic rods and to avoid polymerization. Alkylene chains with up to 40 methylene groups were employed. The two terminal acetylene functions were introduced prior to the oligoyne elongation by twofold introduction of additional C2‐acetylene or C4‐butadiyne building blocks. The final step was the intramolecular acetylene coupling upon which very large macrocycles with up to 62 ring members containing segregated sp‐, sp2‐ and sp3‐segments were formed. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
The First Mimetic of the Transketolase Reaction
Authors: Smith Mark E. B. , Smithies Kirsty , Senussi Tarik , Dalby Paul A. , Hailes Helen C.
Published: January 2006

Although the biocatalytic formation of acyclic α,α′‐dihydroxy ketones by transketolase is well documented in the literature, there is currently no one‐pot chemical synthesis of these dihydroxy ketones available. Here, we report preliminary results of an atom‐efficient one‐pot synthesis of α,α′‐dihydroxy ketones in water by a mimic of the transketolase reaction. The formation of a quaternary ammonium enolate is postulated in this tertiary‐amine‐mediated carbon–carbon bond‐forming reaction. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Ionic Concentrations and Hydration Numbers of “Supporting Electrolytes”
Authors: Heyrovská Raji
Published: January 2006

Eight decades ago, Peter Zuman was born when the first polarograms of aqueous “supporting electrolytes” had just been recorded. Around that period, the pioneering idea of partial dissociation due to Arrhenius was unfortunately replaced by that of ‘complete dissociation’ and empirical ‘mean ionic activities’. Over the next decades, as the theory of electrolytes became too complicated to be meaningful, it became clear that the earlier ideas of partial dissociation and hydration were correct. Here, it is shown that solution properties of electrolytes can be explained quantitatively using simple mathematical expressions involving concentrations and volumes of ions and ion‐pairs and hydration numbers. Five tables of degrees of dissociation and hydration numbers of many strong electrolytes are provided in the Appendix.
Efficient burst aggregation for QoS‐aware slotted OBS systems
Authors: Leligou Helen‐C. , Kanonakis Konstantinos , Angelopoulos John , Pountourakis Ioannis , Orphanoudakis Theofanis
Published: January 2006

A crucial issue in slotted OBS systems is the slot‐generating traffic aggregation strategy as it impacts heavily on efficiency. The longer the assembly time, the better the fill level, at the penalty of delay, which may affect sensitive services. To fulfil the QoS requirements of demanding traffic and achieve high efficiency whenever possible, two traffic priorities are employed and two different bounds on the aggregation delay are enforced. A slot aggregation strategy that creates a composite slot, improving utilisation gain while respecting service guarantees, is presented and evaluated in this paper. Under this approach a slot is launched whenever high‐priority traffic cannot wait any longer but any low‐priority traffic is accommodated as well, producing an efficiency gain in the sense that more traffic can be sent using the same number of slots. Copyright © 2006 AEIT.
Amine Modifiers with an s‐Triazine Ring for Unsaturated Polyester Resins, 1
Authors: Duliban Jerzy
Published: January 2006

Summary: Synthesis and properties of amine modifiers for unsaturated polyester resins are presented. The modifiers were obtained by reacting 3‐azapentan‐1,5‐diol (diethanoloamine) with 2,4‐dichloro‐6‐methoxy‐1,3,5‐triazine, 2‐chloro‐4,6‐dimethoxy‐1,3,5‐triazine or with cyanuric chloride. They were incorporated into the structure of typical unsaturated polyester resins in the polycondensation stage, i.e. prior to dilution with styrene, in the amount of 0.25 through to 2.0 wt.‐%. The effect of the modifier presence on the curing behavior of the resulting resins is discussed.

Gelation times for unsaturated polyester resins modified with modifiers A, B, and C are shown with the curing system consisting of peroxide initiator and (▪): 0.10 cm3, (•): 0.15 cm3, (▴): 0.25 cm3, and (▾): 0.50 cm3 of cobalt(II) octenate solution per 25 g of resin.

image

Gelation times for unsaturated polyester resins modified with modifiers A, B, and C are shown with the curing system consisting of peroxide initiator and (▪): 0.10 cm3, (•): 0.15 cm3, (▴): 0.25 cm3, and (▾): 0.50 cm3 of cobalt(II) octenate solution per 25 g of resin.
Bovine corpus luteum is an extrapituitary site of prolactin production
Authors: Shibaya Masami , Murakami Shuko , Tatsukawa Yuko , Skarzynski Dariusz J. , Acosta Tomas J. , Okuda Kiyoshi
Published: January 2006

Prolactin (PRL) is known to be synthesized not only in the anterior pituitary, but also in other organs including the ovary. Among its various functions, PRL is regarded as the most important constituent of the luteotropic complex in rodents and pigs. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether PRL is produced locally in bovine corpus luteum (CL) and to determine its possible roles in CL. In the present study, we examined changes during the luteal phase in (1) the expressions of PRL and PRL receptors (long form: l‐PRLR, short form: s‐PRLR) in CL and (2) the localization of PRL in CL. We also measured the levels of PRL mRNA in cultured luteal cells and luteal endothelial cells. Furthermore, the effect of PRL on progesterone (P4) and prostaglandin (PG) F2α production by cultured bovine luteal cells was examined. Semiquantitative RT‐PCR analysis revealed that the mRNAs for PRL and its two receptors, l‐ and s‐PRLR, were expressed in all luteal stages examined. PRL mRNA expression was less in the regressed stage (days 19–21 after ovulation) than in the other stages. Both l‐PRLR and s‐PRLR mRNA expressions were higher in the late luteal stage (days 15–17) than in the other stages, while the ratio of l‐PRLR to s‐PRLR was less in the regressed stage than in the other stages. PRL mRNA was also detected in cultured luteal cells and luteal endothelial cells. PRL protein was immunohistochemically detected only in CL of the mid‐ and regressed stages. It was detected in smooth muscle cells of the intraluteal arterioles and endothelial cells but not in luteal cells and other cell types of CL. Exposure of cultured luteal cells obtained from mid‐stage CL (days 8–12) to bovine PRL (100, 200 ng/ml) for 24 hr did not affect P4 and PGF2α production by the cells. The present study demonstrates for the first time the expressions of PRL and PRLR mRNA in bovine CL throughout the luteal phase. The overall results strongly suggest that the bovine CL is an extrapituitary site of PRL production. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Obesity and intellectual disability
Authors: Rimmer James H. , Yamaki Kiyoshi
Published: January 2006

While much of the industrialized world struggles for clues to the growing rise in obesity in their respective countries, researchers and service providers involved in understanding the health characteristics and health behaviors of persons with intellectual disability (ID) struggle with their own issues regarding the increased prevalence of obesity in this segment of the population. What is particularly alarming is that adults with ID residing in the United States in smaller, less supervised settings (e.g., group homes and family households) have a significantly higher rate of obesity compared to other countries and those living in larger and more supervised settings (e.g., institutions). These differences support the theory that the environment appears to exert a powerful influence on obesity in this population. Obesity presents a substantial threat to the livelihood of persons with ID and may have an effect on community participation, independent living, and healthy years of life. The lack of research on successful weight reduction strategies for obese persons with ID makes this an important and greatly needed area of research. MRDD Research Reviews 2006;12:22–27. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Augmentation of the contraction force of human thenar muscles by and during brief discharge trains
Authors: Howells James , Trevillion Louise , Jankelowitz Stacey , Burke David
Published: January 2006

We investigated the influence of the history of activity on the contractile properties of abductor pollicis brevis (APB) to define how the forces produced by individual stimuli change within a stimulus train, with a view to clarifying the optimal discharge frequency for force production in brief trains. Supramaximal electrical stimuli were delivered to the median nerve at the wrist singly or in trains of 2–5 at various interstimulus intervals (ISIs). The force and electromyographic (EMG) responses to trains of n stimuli were defined by online subtraction of the responses to n − 1 stimuli. The force attributable to the nth stimulus was normalized to that produced by a single stimulus. The contraction force produced by 2 stimuli exceeded the force expected with linear summation of 2 single twitches by 30–40% at ISIs of 2–100 ms. Increasing the number of stimuli resulted in less augmentation of the force produced by the last stimulus in the train for ISIs up to 20 ms, but greater augmentation for ISIs of 50–100 ms. At ISIs of less than 10 ms, the time to peak force produced by the last stimulus in a 5‐pulse train was delayed by ∼100 ms, the peak force produced by that stimulus was less than that produced by a single stimulus, and it occurred on the falling phase of the overall contraction. These properties are best explained by the catchlike property of muscle. This implies that the augmentation of contraction force due to this property can increase throughout a stimulus train, and is not restricted to the doublet discharges that have conventionally been studied. We conclude that, with brief discharge trains, maximal forces occur at ISIs of 56–75 ms, intervals that are longer than those conventionally associated with the catchlike property. Discharge rates of 15–20 HZ appear to be optimal for force generation by APB during steady contractions. Muscle Nerve, 2006
Genetic polymorphisms and haplotypes of DNA repair genes in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Pakakasama Samart , Sirirat Tanasan , Kanchanachumpol Saowanee , Udomsubpayakul Umaporn , Mahasirimongkol Surakameth , Kitpoka Pimpun , Thithapandha Amnuay , Hongeng Suradej
Published: January 2006

Background

Polymorphisms of DNA repair genes can alter protein structure and may impair DNA repair capacity. Defects in repairing damaged DNA lead to genetic instability and carcinogenesis. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of the polymorphisms of DNA repair genes on risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Procedures

We genotyped polymorphisms of X‐ray repair cross‐complimenting group 1 (XRCC1) codon 194 (Arg to Trp), 280 (Arg to His) and 399 (Arg to Gln), and xeroderma pigmentosum group D (XPD) codon 312 (Asp to Asn) and 715 (Lys to Gln) in 108 children with ALL and 317 healthy controls using PCR‐RFLP method. The allele, genotype, and haplotype frequencies of these polymorphisms were compared between cases and controls using Chi‐square or Fisher's exact test. PHASE computer software was used to analyze estimated haplotypes of the XRCC1 and XPD polymorphisms.

Results

The frequency of XRCC1 194Trp allele in patients was significantly lower than that in controls (odds ratio (OR) 0.67; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.47–0.97). Individuals with XRCC1 194 Trp/Trp genotype had a significantly reduced risk of ALL (OR 0.22; 95% CI, 0.05–0.96). The frequency of the XRCC1 haplotype B (194Trp‐280Arg‐399Arg) was significantly lower in children with ALL when compared to controls. The XRCC1 399Gln allele was associated with a significantly increased risk of ALL (OR 1.67; 95% CI, 1.20–2.33). The frequency of the XRCC1 haplotype C (194Arg‐280Arg‐399Gln) was significantly higher in patients. There was no difference of allele frequencies of the XRCC1 280 (Arg to His), XPD 312 (Asp to Asn), or XPD 715 (Lys to Gln) between cases and controls.

Conclusion

The XRCC1 194Trp allele and haplotype B showed a protective effect against development of childhood ALL. In contrast, individuals with the XRCC1 399Gln allele and haplotype C were associated with increased risk for this disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;48:16–20. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Successful treatment of a child with t(15;19)‐positive tumor
Authors: Mertens Fredrik , Wiebe Thomas , Adlercreutz Catharina , Mandahl Nils , French Christopher A.
Published: January 2006

A subset of poorly differentiated carcinomas is characterized by the translocation t(15;19)(q13;p13), resulting in a BRD4/NUT fusion gene. Typically, this tumor affects children or young adults, with a predilection for midline head and neck or thoracic structures. The clinical course is invariably fatal, in spite of intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy. We here present the successful treatment of a 10‐year‐old boy who presented with a BRD4/NUT‐positive undifferentiated tumor in the iliac bone. The patient was selected for combined modality therapy, and has remained in complete continuous remission for close to 13 years. The findings show that t(15;19)‐BRD4/NUT‐positive tumors may arise in locations more typical for other pediatric tumors, such as Ewing sarcoma, and that they not always display epithelial differentiation. More importantly, our results also demonstrate that at least some patients with t(15;19)‐positive tumors may be successfully treated. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:1015–1017. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Atom transfer radical polymerization of N‐vinyl carbazole: Optimization to characterization
Authors: Brar A. S. , Kaur Sukhdeep
Published: January 2006

The homopolymerization of N‐vinylcarbazole was performed with atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) with Cu(I)/Cu(II)/2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) as the catalyst system at 90 °C in toluene. N‐2‐Bromoethyl carbazole was used as the initiator, and the optimized ratio of Cu(I) to Cu(II) was found to be 1/0.3. The resulting homopolymer, poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK), was formed after a monomer conversion of 76% in 20 h. The molecular weight as well as the polydispersity index (PDI) showed a linear relation with the conversion, which showed control over the polymerization. A semilogarithmic plot of the monomer conversion with time was linear, indicating the presence of constant active species throughout the polymerization. The initiator efficiency and the effect of the variation of the initiator concentration on the polymerization were studied. The effects of the addition of CuBr2, the variation of the catalyst concentration with respect to the initiator, and CuX (X = Br or Cl) on the kinetics of homopolymerization were determined. With Cu(0)/CuBr2/bpy as the catalyst, faster polymerization was observed. For a chain‐extension experiments, PVK (number‐average molecular weight = 1900; PDI = 1.24) was used as a macroinitiator for the ATRP of methyl methacrylate, and this resulted in the formation of a block copolymer that gave a monomodal curve in gel permeation chromatography. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 1745–1757, 2006
Recent Developments in the Safety Regime for Naval Ship Design
Authors: Andrews David
Published: January 2006

This paper brings together the issues presented by the author to the two International Maritime Conferences on Design for Safety, held in Glasgow in 1999 and in Osaka in 2004. To appreciate how the safety issues for naval ships differ from those for merchant vessels, it is necessary to consider how naval ship design differs from that for most merchant ships. The paper outlines the features of the U.K. Naval Ship Safety Regime and the most significant change since its 1998 implementation, the introduction of Naval Ship Classification. The second aspect of relevance is the role of the Design Authority for a new class of warships, now that the direct design of such vessels is no longer undertaken within the relevant government procurement agency. An important safety management feature, within this arrangement, is the role of the Naval Authority, which is outlined, prior to a concluding section considering the ways in which the current Naval Ship Safety Regime might be developed further. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed implicit/explicit solvation models in quantum mechanical calculations of binding enthalpy for protein–ligand complexes
Authors: Nikitina E. , Sulimov V. , Grigoriev F. , Kondakova O. , Luschekina S.
Published: January 2006

An approach to quantum mechanical investigation of interactions in protein–ligand complexes has been developed that treats the solvation effect in a mixed scheme combining implicit and explicit solvent models. In this approach, the first solvation shell of the solvent around the solute is modeled with a limited number of hydrogen bonded explicit solvent molecules. The influence of the remaining bulk solvent is treated as a surrounding continuum in the conductor‐like screening model (COSMO). The enthalpy term of the binding free energy for the protein–ligand complexes was calculated using the semiempirical PM3 method implemented in the MOPAC package, applied to a trimmed model of the protein–ligand complex constructed with special rules. The dependence of the accuracy of binding enthalpy calculations on size of the trimmed model and number of optimized parameters was evaluated. Testing of the approach was performed for 12 complexes of different ligands with trypsin, thrombin, and ribonuclease with experimentally known binding enthalpies. The root‐mean‐square deviation (RMSD) of the calculated binding enthalpies from experimental data was found as ∼1 kcal/mol over a large range. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2006
p205, A potential tumor suppressor, inhibits cell proliferation via multiple pathways of cell cycle regulation
Authors: Asefa Benyam , Dermott Jonathan M. , Kaldis Philipp , Stefanisko Karen , Garfinkel David J. , Keller Jonathan R.
Published: January 2006

p205 is a member of the interferon‐inducible p200 family of proteins that regulate cell proliferation. Over‐expression of p205 inhibits cell growth, although its mechanism of action is currently unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of p205 on the p53 and Rb‐dependent pathways of cell cycle regulation. p205 expression results in elevated levels of p21, and activates the p21 promoter in vitro in a p53‐dependent manner. In addition, p205 induces increased expression of Rb, and binds directly to Rb and p53. Interestingly, p205 also induces growth inhibition independent of p53 and Rb by delaying G2/M progression in proliferating cells, and is a substrate for Cdk2 kinase activity. Finally, we have identified other binding partners of p205 by a yeast two‐hybrid screen, including the paired homeodomain protein HoxB2. Taken together, our results indicate that p205 induces growth arrest by interaction with multiple transcription factors that regulate the cell cycle, including but not entirely dependent on the Rb‐ and p53‐mediated pathways of growth inhibition.
Roles of ethylene receptor NTHK1 domains in plant growth, stress response and protein phosphorylation
Authors: Zhou Hua-Lin , Cao Wan-Hong , Cao Yang-Rong , Liu Jun , Hao Yu-Jun , Zhang Jin-Song , Chen Shou-Yi
Published: January 2006

Ethylene receptors sense ethylene and regulate downstream signaling events. Tobacco ethylene receptor NTHK1, possessing Ser/Thr kinase activity, has been found to function in plant growth and salt‐stress responses. NTHK1 contains transmembrane domains, a GAF domain, a kinase domain and a receiver domain. We examined roles of these domains in regulation of plant leaf growth, salt‐stress responses and salt‐responsive gene expressions using an overexpression approach. We found that the transgenic Arabidopsis plants harboring the transmembrane domain plus kinase domain exhibited large rosettes, had reduction in ethylene sensitivity, and showed enhanced salt sensitivity. The transgenic plants harboring the transmembrane domain plus GAF domain also showed larger rosettes. Truncations of NTHK1 affected salt‐induced gene expressions. Transmembrane domain plus kinase domain promoted RD21A and VSP2 expression but decreased salt‐induction of AtNAC2. The kinase domain itself promoted AtERF4 gene expression. The GAF domain itself enhanced Cor6.6 induction. Moreover, the NTHK1 functional kinase domain phosphorylated the HIS and ATP subdomains, and five putative phosphorylation sites were identified in these two subdomains. In addition, the salt‐responsive element of the NTHK1 gene was in the transmembrane‐coding region but not in the promoter region. These results indicate that NTHK1 domains or combination of them have specific functions in plant leaf growth, salt‐stress response, gene expression and protein phosphorylation.
Antifungal activity of synthetic peptide derived from halocidin, antimicrobial peptide from the tunicate, Halocynthia aurantium
Authors: Jang Woong Sik , Kim Hong Ki , Lee Ki Young , Kim Sun Am , Han Yeon Soo , Lee In Hee
Published: January 2006

Halocidin is an antimicrobial peptide isolated from the hemocytes of the tunicate. Among the several known synthetic halocidin analogues, di‐K19Hc has been previously confirmed to have the most profound antibacterial activity against antibiotic‐resistant bacteria. This peptide has been considered to be an effective candidate for the development of a new type of antibiotic. In this study, we have assessed the antifungal activity of di‐K19Hc, against a panel of fungi including several strains of Aspergillus and Candida. As a result, we determined that the MICs of di‐K19Hc against six Candida albicans and two Aspergillus species were below 4 and 16 μg/ml, respectively, thereby indicating that di‐K19Hc may be appropriate for the treatment of several fungal diseases. We also conducted an investigation into di‐K19Hc's mode of action against Candida albicans. Our colony count assay showed that di‐K19Hc killed C. albicans within 30 s. Di‐K19Hc bound to the surface of C. albicans via a specific interaction with β‐1,3‐glucan, which is one of fungal cell wall components. Di‐K19Hc also induced the formation of ion channels within the membrane of C. albicans, and eventually observed cell death, which was confirmed via measurements of the K+ released from C. albicans cells which had been treated with di‐K19Hc, as well as by monitoring of the uptake of propidium iodide into the C. albicans cells. This membrane‐attacking quality of di‐K19Hc was also visualized via confocal laser and scanning electron microscopy.
Redox regulation of peroxiredoxin and proteinases by ascorbate and thiols during pea root nodule senescence
Authors: Groten Karin , Dutilleul Christelle , van Heerden Philippus D.R. , Vanacker Hélène , Bernard Stéphanie , Finkemeier Iris , Dietz Karl-Josef , Foyer Christine H.
Published: January 2006

Redox factors contributing to nodule senescence were studied in pea. The abundance of the nodule cytosolic peroxiredoxin but not the mitochondrial peroxiredoxin protein was modulated by ascorbate. In contrast to redox‐active antioxidants such as ascorbate and cytosolic peroxiredoxin that decreased during nodule development, maximal extractable nodule proteinase activity increased progressively as the nodules aged. Cathepsin‐like activities were constant throughout development but serine and cysteine proteinase activities increased during senescence. Senescence‐induced cysteine proteinase activity was inhibited by cysteine, dithiotreitol, or E‐64. Senescence‐dependent decreases in redox‐active factors, particularly ascorbate and peroxiredoxin favour decreased redox‐mediated inactivation of cysteine proteinases.
Worried Sick: The Experience of Debt Problems and their Relationship with Health, Illness and Disability
Authors: Balmer Nigel , Pleasence Pascoe , Buck Alexy , Walker Heather C.
Published: January 2006

This paper examines social and demographic predictors of debt problems, whether debt problems tend to occur in combination with other problems and which people tend to experience long- rather than short-term debt. Data were extracted from a survey of 5,611 adults' experiences of civil justice problems, throughout England and Wales. Being in receipt of benefits and long-term illness or disability were the strongest predictors of debt, with long-term ill or disabled respondents also being more susceptible to long-term debt. We highlight the importance of advice interventions that recognise the link between civil justice problems and health, illness or disability.
Diagnostik und Therapie fetaler Rhythmusstörungen
Authors: Abele  , Meyer-Wittkopf
Published: January 2006

Die Anzahl diagnostizierter fetaler Arrhythmien hat in den letzten Jahren stetig zugenommen. Nur wenige bedürfen einer medikamentösen Therapie. Von den meisten Arbeitsgruppen wird eine oral-maternale transplanzentare medikamentöse Therapie des Feten bevorzugt. In Ausnahmefällen kann eine direkte intravaskuläre medikamentöse Therapie des Feten notwendig sein. Bei der medikamentösen Behandlung fetaler Tachyarrhythmien kommen, je nach Institution und präferiertem Medikationsschema, neben Digoxin auch Flecainid, Amiodaron, Verapamil und Soltalol zur Anwendung. Der kongenitale AV-Block, insbesondere mit Nachweis von SS-A/B Antikörpern, wird im Rahmen internationaler Studienprotokolle mit Dexamethason und zum Teil mit Salbutamol behandelt.