bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The nuclear localization signal and the C‐terminal region of FHY1 are required for transmission of phytochrome A signals
Authors: Zeidler Mathias , Zhou Qingwen , Sarda Xavier , Yau Chi‐Ping , Chua Nam‐Hai
Published: December 2004

Plants use the family of phytochrome photoreceptors to sense their light environment in the red/far‐red region of the spectrum. Phytochrome A (phyA) is the primary photoreceptor that regulates germination and early seedling development. This phytochrome mediates seedling de‐etiolation for the developmental transition from heterotrophic to photoauxotrophic growth. High intensity far‐red light provides a way to specifically assess the role of phyA in this process and was used to isolate phyA‐signaling intermediates. fhy1 and pat3 (renamed fhy1‐3) are independently isolated alleles of a gene encoding a phyA signal transduction component. FHY1 is a small 24 kDa protein that shows no homology to known functional motifs, besides a small conserved septin‐related domain at the C‐terminus, a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS) and a putative nuclear exclusion signal (NES). Here we demonstrate that the septin‐related domain is important for FHY1 to transmit phyA signals. Moreover, the putative NLS and NES of FHY1 are indeed involved in its nuclear localization and exclusion. Nuclear localization of FHY1 is needed for it to execute responses downstream of phyA. Together with the results from global expression analysis, our findings point to an important role of FHY1 in phyA signaling through its nuclear translocation and induction of gene expression.
BRL1, a leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like protein kinase, is functionally redundant with BRI1 in regulating Arabidopsis brassinosteroid signaling
Authors: Zhou Aifen , Wang Huachun , Walker John C. , Li Jia
Published: December 2004

BRI1‐like receptor kinase (BRL1) was identified as an extragenic suppressor of a weak bri1 allele, bri1‐5, in an activation‐tagging genetic screen for novel brassinosteroid (BR) signal transduction regulators. BRL1 encodes a leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like protein kinase (LRR‐RLK). Sequence alignment revealed that BRL1 is closely related to BRI1, which is involved in BR perception. Overexpression of a BRL1 cDNA, driven by a constitutive CaMV 35S promoter, recapitulates the bri1‐5 suppression phenotypes, and partially complements the phenotypes of a null bri1 allele, bri1‐4. Analysis of a BR‐specific feedback response gene, CPD, indicates that BRL1 functions in BR signaling. BRL1 expression pattern overlaps with, but is distinct from, that of BRI1. In addition, both the expression level and in vitro kinase autophosphorylation activity of BRL1 are significantly lower than those of BRI1. bri1‐5 brl1‐1 double mutant plants have enhanced developmental defects relative to bri1‐5 mutant plants, revealing that BRL1 plays a partially redundant role with BRI1 in controlling Arabidopsis growth and development. These findings enhance our understanding of functional redundancy and add an additional layer of complexity to RLK‐mediated BR signaling transduction in Arabidopsis.
The upstream oxylipin profile of Arabidopsis thaliana: a tool to scan for oxidative stresses
Authors: Montillet Jean‐Luc , Cacas Jean‐Luc , Garnier Lionel , Montané Marie‐Hélène , Douki Thierry , Bessoule Jean‐Jacques , Polkowska‐Kowalczyk Lidia , Maciejewska Urszula , Agnel Jean‐Pierre , Vial Alexandra , Triantaphylidès Christian
Published: December 2004

Various physiological imbalances lead to reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and/or increases in lipoxygenase (LOX) activities, both events ending in lipid peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Besides the quantification of such a process, the development of tools is necessary in order to allow the identification of the primary cause of its development and localization. A biochemical method assessing 9 LOX, 13 LOX and ROS‐mediated peroxidation of membrane‐bound and free PUFAs has been improved. The assay is based on the analysis of hydroxy fatty acids derived from PUFA hydroperoxides by both the straight and chiral phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. Besides the upstream products of peroxidation of the 18:2 and 18:3 PUFAs, products coming from the 16:3 were characterized and their steady‐state level quantified. Moreover, the observation that the relative amounts of the ROS‐mediated peroxidation isomers of 18:3 were constant in leaves allowed us to circumvent the chiral analyses for the discrimination and quantification of 9 LOX, 13 LOX and ROS‐mediated processes in routine experiments. The methodology has been successfully applied to decipher lipid peroxidation in Arabidopsis leaves submitted to biotic and abiotic stresses. We provide evidence of the relative timing of enzymatic and non‐enzymatic lipid peroxidation processes. The 13 LOX pathway is activated early whatever the nature of the stress, leading to the peroxidation of chloroplast lipids. Under cadmium stress, the 9 LOX pathway added to the 13 LOX one. ROS‐mediated peroxidation was mainly driven by light and always appeared as a late process.
The MADS‐box gene DAL1 is a potential mediator of the juvenile‐to‐adult transition in Norway spruce (Picea abies)
Authors: Carlsbecker Annelie , Tandre Karolina , Johanson Urban , Englund Marie , Engström Peter
Published: December 2004

Progression through the plant life cycle involves change in many essential features, most notably in the capacity to reproduce. The transition from a juvenile vegetative and non‐reproductive to an adult reproductive phase is gradual and can take many years; in the conifer Norway spruce, Picea abies, typically 20–25 years. We present a detailed analysis of the activities of three regulatory genes with potential roles in this transition in Norway spruce: DAL1, a MADS‐box gene related to the AGL6 group of genes from angiosperms, and the two LEAFY‐related genes PaLFY and PaNLY. DAL1 activity is initiated in the shoots of juvenile trees at an age of 3–5 years, and then increases with age, whereas both LFY genes are active throughout the juvenile phase. The activity of DAL1 further shows a spatial pattern along the stem of the tree that parallels a similar gradient in physiological and morphological features associated with maturation to the adult phase. Constitutive expression of DAL1 in transgenic Arabidopsis plants caused a dramatic attenuation of both juvenile and adult growth phases; flowers forming immediately after the embryonic phase of development in severely affected plants. Taken together, our results support the notion that DAL1 may have a regulatory role in the juvenile‐to‐adult transition in Norway spruce.
Emerging viral pathogens in long‐term expatriates (I): Hepatitis E virus
Authors: Jänisch Th. , Preiser W. , Berger A. , Mikulicz U. , Thoma B. , Hampl H. , Doerr H. W.
Published: December 2004

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the so‐called ‘emerging’ viral pathogens, whose rôle is increasingly being recognized. To estimate the risk of HEV infection during long‐term stays in HEV‐endemic countries, 500 serum samples obtained from development aid workers and their family members who had spent on average 9 years in HEV‐endemic regions were tested for antibodies against HEV by ELISA and Immunoblot. We found seroprevalence rates of 5–6% with no significant differences related to gender or area of upbringing (raised in an HEV‐endemic vs. nonendemic region). Seroprevalence rates did not increase with increasing number of stays or number of expatriate years. None of 77 children and adolescents tested was positive for anti‐HEV. The Indian subcontinent showed the highest seropositive rate with 10%. In subjects returning from West and Central Africa, East Africa, South‐east Asia and Latin America seroprevalence rates were around 7%. We found a comparatively low seroprevalence rate of 2.1% for the Arab countries and the Middle East. Our results show that there definitely is a risk for long‐term expatriates to acquire HEV infection; however, in most of our cases infection seems to have been non‐ or oligo‐symptomatic.
Exchange transfusion as an adjunct to the treatment of severe falciparum malaria
Authors: Hoontrakoon S. , Suputtamongkol Y.
Published: December 2004

Summary

objective  To compare the efficacy of exchange transfusion as the adjunct to quinine treatment (21 patients) with quinine therapy alone (29 patients).

method  A retrospective study of 50 patients with severe falciparum malaria was conducted at Chumphorn Hospital, Southern Thailand.

results  Clinical characteristics in both treatment groups were not significantly different although in the exchange transfusion group, the admission geometric mean parasitaemia (18 (5%), and the proportion of patients with more than 10% parasitaemia was higher (76%, P= 0.03) than in the group who received quinine alone (10 ± 4%; 38%, P = 0.1). The mortality rate of patients who received exchange transfusion was 48%; that of the remainder, 69%. (P= 0.3). ARDS (P= 0.01) and oliguric renal failure (P= 0.04) were significant risk factors for death in these patients.

conclusion  Exchange transfusion was safe and well tolerated. Results of our study revealed a 20% reduction in mortality when exchange transfusion was used as an adjunct to quinine treatment. It should therefore be considered in patients with severe falciparum malaria when possible.
Retail supply of malaria‐related drugs in rural Tanzania: risks and opportunities
Authors: Goodman Catherine , Patrick Kachur S. , Abdulla Salim , Mwageni Eleuther , Nyoni Joyce , Schellenberg Joanna A. , Mills Anne , Bloland Peter
Published: December 2004

Objectives  To characterize availability of fever and malaria medicines within the retail sector in rural Tanzania, assess the likely public health implications, and identify opportunities for policy interventions to increase the coverage of effective treatment.

Methods  A census of retailers selling drugs was undertaken in the areas under demographic surveillance in four Tanzanian districts, using a structured questionnaire.

Results  Drugs were stocked by two types of retailer: a large number of general retailers (n = 675) and a relatively small number of drug shops (n = 43). Almost all outlets stocked antipyretics/painkillers. One‐third of general retailers stocking drugs had antimalarials, usually chloroquine alone. Almost all drug shops stocked antimalarials (98%): nearly all had chloroquine, 42% stocked quinine, 37% sulphadoxine–pyrimethamine and 30% amodiaquine. A large number of antimalarial brands were available. Population ratios indicate the relative accessibility of retail drug providers compared with health facilities. Drug shop staff generally travelled long distances to buy from drugs wholesalers or pharmacies. General retailers bought mainly from local general wholesalers, with a few general wholesalers accounting for a high proportion of all sources cited.

Conclusions  Drugs were widely available from a large number of retail outlets. Potential negative implications include provision of ineffective drugs, confusion over brand names, uncontrolled use of antimalarials, and the availability of components of potential combination therapy regimens as monotherapies. On the other hand, this active and highly accessible retail market provides opportunities for improving the coverage of effective antimalarial treatment. Interventions targeted at all drug retailers are likely to be costly to deliver and difficult to sustain, but two promising points for targeted intervention are drug shops and selected general wholesalers. Retail quality may also be improved through consumer education, and modification of the chemical quality, packaging and price of products entering the retail distribution chain.
Integrating tuberculosis and HIV care in the primary care setting in South Africa
Authors: Coetzee David , Hilderbrand Katherine , Goemaere Eric , Matthys Francine , Boelaert Marleen
Published: December 2004

Background In many countries including South Africa, the increasing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) epidemics have impacted significantly on already weakened public health services. This paper reviews the scope, process and performance of the HIV and TB services in a primary care setting where antiretroviral therapy is provided, in Khayelitsha, South Africa, in order to assess whether there is a need for some form of integration.

Methods The scope and process of both services were assessed through observations of the service and individual and group interviews with key persons. The performance was assessed by examining the 2001–2002 reports from the health information system and clinical data.

Results The TB service is programme oriented to the attainment of an 85% cure rate amongst smear‐positive patients while the HIV service has a more holistic approach to the patient with HIV. The TB service is part of a well‐established programme that is highly standardized. The HIV service is in the pilot phase. There is a heavy load at both services and there is large degree of cross‐referral between the two services. There are lessons that can be learnt from each service. There is an overlap of activities, duplication of services and under‐utilization of staff. There are missed opportunities for TB and HIV prevention, diagnosis and management.

Conclusions The study suggests that there may be benefits to integrating HIV and TB services. Constraints to this process are discussed.
Seroepidemiology of Toxocara canis infection among mountain aboriginal schoolchildren living in contaminated districts in eastern Taiwan
Authors: Fan Chia‐Kwung , Hung Chien‐Ching , Du Wen‐Yuan , Liao Chien‐Wei , Su Kua‐Eyre
Published: December 2004

We conducted a seroepidemiological study of Toxocara canis infection among mountain aboriginal schoolchildren aged 7–12 years living in contaminated districts in eastern Taiwan. To detect sera IgG (≥1:64) we used a T. canis larval excretory‐secretory antigen‐based enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. A short questionnaire elicited information on the practices of raising dogs, playing with soil, eating raw vegetables, or whether the child normally washed his/her hands before eating. The overall seroprevalence was quite high, reaching 76.6% (252/329). Neither age nor gender seemed to be important factors related to a positive serology. Aboriginal schoolchildren who raised dogs (OR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.04–3.19, P = 0.03), or played with soil (OR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.49–4.25, P < 0.001) seemed to be more susceptible to T. canis infection than those who did not. Children who habitually washed their hands before eating (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.33–0.97, P = 0.04) had a lower chance of acquiring T. canis infection than those who did not.
Mycobacterium ulcerans disease: role of age and gender in incidence and morbidity
Authors: Debacker M. , Aguiar J. , Steunou C. , Zinsou C. , Meyers W. M. , Scott J. T. , Dramaix M. , Portaels F.
Published: December 2004

During the 5‐year period, 1997–2001, 1700 patients with a clinical diagnosis of Mycobacterium ulcerans disease [Buruli ulcer (BU)] were treated at the Centre Sanitaire et Nutritionnel Gbemoten, Zagnanado, Benin. The patients lived in the four regions of southern Benin: Atlantique, Mono, Oueme and Zou, with the largest number coming from the Zou Region where the centre is located. The median age of BU patients was 15 years (q1 = 7, q3 = 30). Lower limbs are involved 3.2 times more frequently than upper limbs in older patients and younger patients have the highest prevalence of multiple lesions. The latter are frequently associated with bone lesions. Specific detection rates for age and gender showed a distribution with maximum peaks in the 10–14 years group and among adults between 75 and 79 years. Over 59 years, males are more at risk of developing M. ulcerans disease than females. Children under 15 years represent the largest part of the BU disease burden and of the general population. The highest detection rates (per 100 000 population) were in the 75–79‐year‐old patients. The most likely explanation of this was reactivation of disease from a latent infection of M. ulcerans. Educational programmes should target especially these two groups of population at risk.
TMVA, a novel GPIb‐binding protein, significantly prevents platelet microthrombi formation and prolongs discordant cardiac xenograft survival
Authors: Chen Gang , Wei Qin , Wang Xi‐Mo , Wang Wan‐Yu , Xiong Yu‐Liang , Chen Shi
Published: December 2004

Abstract:  In xenotransplantation, donor endothelium is the first target of immunological attack. Activation of the endothelial cell by preformed natural antibodies leads to platelet binding via the interaction of the glycoprotein (GP) Ib and von Willebrand factor (vWF). TMVA is a novel GPIb‐binding protein purified from the venom of Trimeresurus mucrosquamatus. In this study, the inhibitory effect of TMVA on platelet aggregation in rats and the effect on discordant guinea pig‐to‐rat cardiac xenograft survival were investigated. Three doses (8, 20 or 40 μg/kg) of TMVA were infused intravenously to 30 rats respectively. Platelet aggregation rate was assayed 0.5, 12, and 24 h after TMVA administration. Wister rats underwent guinea pig cardiac cervical heterotopic transplantation using single dosing of TMVA (20 μg/kg, i.v., 0.5 h before reperfusion). Additionally, levels of TXB2 and 6‐keto‐PGF1α within rejected graft tissues were determined by radioimmunoassay. Treatment with TMVA at a dose of 20 or 40 μg/kg resulted in complete inhibition of platelet aggregation 0.5 h after TMVA administration. Rats receiving guinea pig cardiac xenografts after TMVA therapy had significantly prolonged xenograft survival. Histologic and immunopathologic analysis of cardiac xenografts in TMVA treatment group showed no intragraft platelet microthrombi formation and fibrin deposition. Additionally, the ratio of 6‐keto‐PGF1α to TXB2 in TMVA treatment group was significantly higher than those in control group. We conclude that the use of this novel GPIb‐binding protein was very effective in preventing platelet microthrombi formation and fibrin deposition in a guinea pig‐to‐rat model and resulted in prolongation of xenograft survival. The increased ratio of PGI2/TXA2 in TMVA treatment group may protect xenografts from the endothelial cell activation and contribute to the prolongation of xenograft survival.
Improved suppression of circulating complement does not block acute vascular rejection of pig‐to‐rhesus monkey cardiac transplants
Authors: Chen Gang , Sun Qian‐Yun , Wang Xi‐Mo , Shen Shi‐Qian , Guo Hui , Wang Hong , Wu Ying , Wang Wan‐Yu , Xiong Yu‐Liang , Chen Shi
Published: December 2004

Abstract:  At present, acute vascular rejection (AVR) remains a primary obstacle inhibiting long‐term graft survival in the pig‐to‐non‐human primate transplant model. The present study was undertaken to determine whether repetitive injection of low dose Yunnan‐cobra venom factor (Y‐CVF), a potent complement inhibitor derived from the venom of Naja kaouthia can completely abrogate hemolytic complement activity and subsequently improve the results in a pig‐to‐rhesus monkey heterotopic heart transplant model. Nine adult rhesus monkeys received a heterotopic heart transplant from wild‐type pigs and the recipients were allocated into two groups: group 1 (n = 4) received repetitive injection of low dose Y‐CVF until the end of the study and group 2 (n = 5) did not receive Y‐CVF. All recipients were treated with cyclosporine A (CsA), cyclophosphamide (CyP) and steroids. Repetitive Y‐CVF treatment led to very dramatic fall in CH50 and serum C3 levels (CH50 < 3 units/C3 remained undetectable throughout the experiment) and successfully prevented hyperacute rejection (HAR), while three of five animals in group 2 underwent HAR. However, the continuous suppression of circulating complement did not prevent AVR and the grafts in group 1 survived from 8 to 13 days. Despite undetectable C3 in circulating blood, C3 deposition was present in these grafts. The venular thrombosis was the predominant histopathologic feature of AVR. We conclude that repetitive injection of low dose Y‐CVF can be used to continuously suppress circulating complement in a very potent manner and successfully prevent HAR. However, this therapy did not inhibit complement deposition in the graft and failed to prevent AVR. These data suggest that using alternative pig donors [i.e. human decay accelerating factor (hDAF)‐transgenic] in combination with the systemic use of complement inhibitors may be necessary to further control complement activation and improve survival in pig‐to‐non‐human primate xenotransplant model.
Conditional Methodology for Individual Case History Data
Authors: Catchpole E. A. , Morgan B. J. T. , Coulson T.
Published: December 2004

Key ecological studies involve the regular censusing of populations of wild animals, resulting in individual case history data which record when marked individuals are seen alive and/or found dead. We show how current conditional methods of analysing case history data may be biased. We then show how a correction can be applied, making use of results from a mark–recovery–recapture analysis. This allows a simple investigation of the effect of time-varying individual covariates such as weight that often contain missing values. The work is motivated and illustrated by the study of Soay sheep in the St Kilda archipelago.
L‐type calcium channel activity regulates sodium channel levels in rat pituitary GH3 cells
Authors: Monjaraz E. , Navarrete A. , López‐Santiago L. F. , Vega A. V. , J. A. Arias‐Montaño  , Cota G.
Published: December 2004

The effects of chronic pharmacological modulation of L‐type Ca2+ channel activity on the cell surface expression of Na+ channels were examined in GH3 cells.

Prolonged inhibition (4–5 days) of L‐channels with nimodipine caused a 50–60 % decrease in the peak amplitude of whole‐cell Na+ currents recorded with the patch‐clamp technique. On the contrary, prolonged exposure to the L‐channel agonist Bay K 8644 induced an ≈2.5‐fold increase in peak Na+ current. In both cases, there were only minor changes in cell capacitance and no significant changes in Na+ channel gating properties.

Measurements of the specific binding of radiolabelled saxitoxin to intact cells showed that nimodipine treatment reduced the number of cell surface Na+ channels, whereas treatment with Bay K 8664 produced the opposite effect. The dual regulation of Na+ channel abundance explained the mentioned changes in Na+ current amplitude.

Plasma membrane Na+ channels had a half‐life of ≈17 h both in control cells and in cells treated with Bay K 8644, as estimated from the rate of decay of peak Na+ current after inhibition of protein synthesis with cycloheximide. Actinomycin D, an inhibitor of gene transcription, and also cycloheximide, occluded the stimulatory effect of Bay K 8644 on Na+ current density when measured over a 24 h period.

These findings indicate that the entry of Ca2+ through L‐type channels influences in a positive way the number of functional Na+ channels in GH3 cells, and suggest that Ca2+ influx stimulates either Na+ channel gene expression or the expression of a regulatory protein that promotes translocation of pre‐assembled Na+ channels into the plasma membrane.
Diverse roles of intracellular cAMP in early synaptic modifications in the rat visual cortex
Authors: Yoshimura Hiroshi , Kato Nobuo
Published: December 2004

The effects of increasing intracellular cAMP concentration were studied using photolysis of caged‐cAMP in layer II/III neurons recorded intracellularly in visual cortex slices. The recorded neurons exhibited either after‐hyperpolarization (AHP) or after‐depolarization (ADP) in response to depolarizing current injection. Depending on which afterpotential appeared, the effects of photolysis differed.

In ADP‐generating neurons, photolysis of caged‐cAMP induced long‐lasting depression of postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) evoked by grey matter (GM) stimulation, without altering the size of the ADP. In AHP‐generating neurons, photolysis induced long‐lasting potentiation of GM‐evoked PSPs, with the size of the AHP reduced in the same time course. White matter (WM)‐evoked PSPs showed no change.

Extracellular application of bromo‐cAMP depressed both GM‐ and WM‐evoked PSPs in ADP‐ and AHP‐generating neurons. This depression may be due to presynaptic effects of cAMP, since photolysis‐evoked postsynaptic increase in cAMP concentration never induced depression of PSPs in AHP‐generating neurons. This depression was reversible but continued until bromo‐cAMP was washed out, while ADP and AHP in the postsynaptic neurons were depressed only temporarily and returned to the pre‐application level even in the continued presence of bromo‐cAMP.

Bromo‐cAMP was applied following photolysis of caged‐cAMP. In the neurons in which the photolysis potentiated GM‐evoked PSPs this potentiation was cancelled out by bromo‐cAMP (depotentiation). In the other neurons, PSPs were depressed only reversibly.

Thus, a postsynaptic increase in cAMP concentration exerts more diverse effects on synaptic plasticity than thus far reported, depending on the difference in neuronal intrinsic excitability and probably on how much, or the way in which, cAMP concentration is increased.
What is good parental education?
Authors: Petersson Kerstin , Petersson Christer , Håkansson Anders
Published: December 2004

The aim of the study was to highlight the experiences and expectations of Swedish parents with respect to general parental education within child healthcare. Interviews were carried out with 25 parents who had attended education sessions. With a few exceptions the fathers did not take part, and those mothers who did comprised a relatively highly educated group; their views therefore predominate in this study. Socially vulnerable parents such as the unemployed and immigrants took part more sporadically in the meetings, which is why less material is available from these groups. The arrangement and analysis of the material was done using qualitative content analysis. We identified two main categories of importance: ‘parental education content’ and ‘parental education structure’. The parents were on the whole satisfied with the content with respect to the child's physical and psychosocial development. On the other hand, first‐time parents expressed a degree of uncertainty with respect to the new parent roles and parent relation and they thought that the education should place more emphasis on the interplay between the parents and between child and parents. The degree of confidence in the nurse as group leader was mainly high. The parents thought that the groups functioned well socially and were satisfied with the organization of the meetings. They did, however, demand clearer structure and framework with respect to the content. Since the aim of legally established parental education is to improve the conditions of childhood growth and to provide support to parents, it must be considered especially important to provide resources so that the socially vulnerable groups in the community may also be reached.
Picking behaviour in cognitively impaired residents in geriatric settings: prevalence of the behaviour and characteristics of the residents
Authors: Johansson Karin , Sandman Per‐Olof , Karlsson Stig
Published: December 2004

This paper presents the findings of a point prevalence study performed at all geriatric settings within a county in Northern Sweden. The aims of the study were twofold: to investigate the prevalence of picking behaviour in cognitively impaired residents in various kinds of geriatric care settings and describe the characteristics of the residents, and to investigate how the residents who exhibit picking behaviour are experienced by their care providers. The study comprises 1928 cognitively impaired residents. The prevalence of picking behaviour was found to be 17%. Multivariate analyses showed that behavioural and psychiatric symptoms such as ‘often stands at the outer door and wants to go out’, ‘wanders alone or with other patients back and forth’, ‘aggressive threats to patients and staff‘ and being ‘manic’ and ‘fearful’ were associated with picking behaviour. Other factors associated with picking behaviour were ‘taking part in daily tasks’, ‘can walk without assistance’ and imposing a high psychological workload. Furthermore, residents who exhibited picking behaviour were experienced by care providers as more uncertain and unhappier than residents who did not behave in this way.
The Simulation of Impact Loads on Beam‐type Structures using a Pseudo‐dynamic Procedure
Authors: Melo F. J. Q. , Carneiro J. A. O. , Camanho P. P. , Tavares C. L. , Fernandes A. A.
Published: December 2004

Abstract:  This study proposes an alternate method for the analysis of beams with solid cross‐section or built as a framed structure and subjected to transverse impact loads from an external striker. The procedure used in the analysis is a combination of two essential tools using pseudo‐dynamic techniques. The method reported here involves only one degree of freedom for the structure modelling and assumes an elastic contact between an external striker and the beam structure, which in reality does not happen. As only one degree of freedom is considered in the analysis, some important limitations are inherent to the method proposed here. Essentially, there is the difficulty of modelling the displacement field associated with the transient structure behaviour accurately, as a consequence of fast‐rate impact loads. Another difficulty faced by the method refers to a local structure behaviour associated with contact loads. The present method can deal with large displacements in transversely loaded beams associated to a collapse mechanism having a simple geometry and defined with precision from a single parameter. This ensures reasonable accuracy in the evaluation of the strain energy absorbing capacity of transversely impacted beam structures using a single degree of freedom model in a pseudo‐dynamic procedure.
Comparison of the Effects of the CO2 Surgical Laser and Conventional Surgical Techniques on Healing and Wound Tensile Strength of Skin Flaps in the Dog
Authors: Mison Michael B. , Steficek Barbara , Lavagnino Michael , Teunissen Brian D. , Hauptman Joe G. , Walshaw Richard
Published: December 2004

Objective— To determine if CO2 laser was superior to conventional surgical techniques (CST) for creation of skin flaps in dogs as determined by hemostasis, wound healing, and wound tensile strength.

Study Design— In‐vivo model

Animals— Six large, mixed‐breed dogs.

Methods— On each dog's trunk, 3 pairs of identical, dorsally based, pedicled skin flaps were created and sutured back into position. Based on a Latin Square design, flaps on one side were created with a CO2 laser and on the other side by CST. Intraoperative hemorrhage was measured by weighing sponges used to absorb blood. On days 7, 10, and 14, specimens from the flap‐skin junction and the central portion of each pair of flaps were collected. Specimens were subjected to tensile strength testing and histologic examination to evaluate wound healing.

Results— Mean (± standard error of mean [SEM]) hemorrhage was significantly less (P= .02) with CO2 laser (4.70 ± 1.37 g) than CST (10.82 ± 1.37 g). Wound tensile strength (N/m2) after CST (0.49 ± 0.049) was significantly greater (P= .01) than with CO2 laser (0.17 ± 0.049). Laser incisions had partial necrosis of the wound edges and a more extensive inflammatory response; however, healing of the wound beds were similar regardless of technique.

Conclusions— The CO2 laser provided better intraoperative hemostasis than CST. However, overall healing and increase in tensile strength of the skin‐flap junction of the flaps created by the laser may be delayed during the first few weeks of wound healing.

Clinical Relevance— Skin flaps used to repair large skin defects in dogs can be created and elevated with a CO2 laser. In areas of increased skin mobility or tension, skin flaps created with CO2 laser may be more susceptible to complications such as dehiscence, and care should be taken to minimize these complications.
A 10‐year study of snowboard injuries in Lapland Sweden
Authors: Made C. , Elmqvist L.‐G.
Published: December 2004

Snowboard injuries in a Swedish ski area were evaluated from 1989 to 1999. All injured skiers (alpine, telemark, snowboarders) who sought medical attention at the local Medical Center within 48 h of the accident, were asked to answer an injury form. Physicians assessed and treated the injured skiers. There were a total of 1775 injured skiers; 568 injured snowboarders mean age 19 years. The female/male ratio was 34/66%, the injury rate 3/1000 skier days, three times higher than that of alpine skiers. The skill level of the injured snowboard riders improved during the period. The fall/run ratio of the beginners was higher (1.0) and their risk behavior lower (3.9 on visual analogue scale 1–10) in comparison to the advanced riders (0.4 and 6.6, respectively).

Injuries were in 54% located to the upper extremity, 35% were wrist/lower arm injuries. Beginners had significantly higher frequency of lower arm/wrist injuries (46%), than average (32%) and advanced riders (20%). The most frequent single diagnosis was wrist/lower arm fracture (20%). Advanced riders tend to have more head/neck injuries than beginners, 17% vs. 13% (NS). Thus, with elevated skill level the injury pattern changed.

For injury prevention, wrist guards and helmets are recommended for snowboard riders.
Fat metabolism in exercise – with special reference to training and growth hormone administration
Authors: Lange Kai Henrik Wiborg
Published: December 2004

Despite abundance of fat, exclusive dependency on fat oxidation can only sustain a metabolic rate corresponding to 50–60% of VO2max in humans. This puzzling finding has been subject to intense research for many years. Lately, it has gained renewed interest as a consequence of increased obesity and physical inactivity imposed by Western lifestyle. Why are humans so poor at metabolizing fat? Can fat metabolism be manipulated by exercise, training, diet and hormones? And why is fat stored in specialized adipose tissue and not just as lipid droplets inside muscle cells?

In the present review, human fat metabolism is discussed in relation to how human fat metabolism is designed. Limitations in this design are explored and examples of different designs for fat metabolism from animal physiology are included to illustrate these limitations. Various means of manipulating fat metabolism are discussed with special emphasis on exercise, training, growth hormone (GH) physiology and GH administration. It is concluded that fat stores, non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) availability and enzymes for fat oxidation can be increased substantially. However, it is almost impossible to increase fat oxidation during endurance exercise at higher intensities. It seems that, for some reason, the human being is far from optimally designed for fat oxidation during exercise. Acute GH administration has several unexpected effects on fat and carbohydrate metabolism during aerobic exercise, and future research in this area is likely to provide valuable information with respect to GH physiology and the regulation of fat and carbohydrate metabolism during aerobic exercise.
Convergence and Divergence in Spouses' Perspectives on Women's Autonomy in Rural India
Authors: Jejeebhoy Shireen J.
Published: December 2004

This study explores similarities and differences in the perceptions of rural Indian women and their husbands with regard to various dimensions of women's autonomy and investigates the extent to which various reproductive outcomes—contraception, unmet need, recent fertility, and spousal communication—are influenced by individual partners' views of women's autonomy. Data are drawn from a 1993–94 community‐based study of women's autonomy in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, states that are, respectively, more and less patriarchal. Matched data were obtained from 1,660 women and their husbands. Results indicate no more than a loose agreement between women and their husbands concerning the dimensions of women's autonomy within the home. Where disagreement is expressed, husbands are more likely to project a comparatively liberal picture of their wives' autonomy than do their wives, and the inference can be made that in surveys men tended to provide more “acceptable” responses than when they were questioned in greater depth. Findings also suggest that cultural context affects the influences that wives' and their husbands' perceptions of women's autonomy have on reproductive outcomes. A clear regional divide is seen, net of individual and household characteristics, in the influence of almost every aspect of women's autonomy.
Computed tomographic anatomy of the canine cervical vertebral venous system
Authors: Gómez Marcelo , Freeman Larry , Jones Jeryl , Lanz Otto , Arnold Pam
Published: December 2004

Computed tomographic (CT) venography of the cervical vertebral canal was performed in six, clinically normal, adult mixed‐breed dogs from 14 to 23 kg. After dogs were euthanized and saline perfused, a gelatin and iothalamate mixture was injected into the right external jugular vein. Contiguous, 4‐mm‐thick CT images were obtained with dogs in sternal recumbency. Dogs were kept in the same position as for the CT scan and frozen to approximately –8 °C. All post‐contrast CT images were analyzed using similar bone window and level settings. Additional multiplanar reformatted dorsal images were obtained in all dogs. The frozen cadavers were sectioned through the cervical region extending from the occiput to T1 at approximately 8‐mm intervals. The frozen sections were then compared with the CT images. The CT appearance of the normal cervical vertebral venous system was described and illustrated. Components such as the internal vertebral venous plexus, interarcuate veins, intervertebral veins, and vertebral veins were clearly identified on the CT images.
Portal streamlining as a cause of nonuniform hepatic distribution of sodium pertechnetate during per‐rectal portal scintigraphy in the dog
Authors: Daniel Gregory B. , Denovo Robert C. , Sharp Dorothy S. , Tobias Karen , Berry Clifford
Published: December 2004

The purpose of this study was to evaluate nonuniform patterns of vascular distribution of pertechnetate in the dog during per‐rectal portal scintigraphy. Ninety‐two studies were reviewed retrospectively to document the patterns of radionuclide distribution. Forty‐five studies were classified as normal and 47 were classified as diagnostic for a macrovascular portosystemic shunt. In these dogs, shunt fractions were calculated and compared using at‐test. In dogs with sufficient liver radioactivity for evaluation, the study was classified as having uniform, dorsal, central, or ventral radiopharmaceutical distributions. There were 51 animals (45 normal and six dogs with low‐magnitude portosystemic shunts) with sufficient liver activity to assess the radionuclide distribution within the liver. A one‐way ANOVA was used to compare shunt fractions between each of the distribution patterns. Two dogs were anesthetized and selective portovenograms were performed. Portovenograms were compared with the scintigraphic images to correlate the vascular distribution of the right, central, and left divisional branches of the portal vein. The shunt fraction in the 45 normal dogs was significantly lower than in the dogs with portosystemic shunts (5.7%± 4.8% vs. 78.6%± 20.0% (mean±SD),P<0.001). Of the 51 dogs with sufficient liver activity to classify the pattern of distribution, there were 15/51 (31.4%) with uniform radionuclide distribution, 10/51 (19.6%) with focal dorsal distribution, 15/51 (29.4%) with focal ventral distribution, and 10/51 (19.6%) with focal central distribution. There was no significant difference in the shunt fractions between the groups. There were six dogs diagnosed with low‐magnitude portosystemic shunt with sufficient liver radioactivity to categorize the vascular distribution of the radionuclide within the liver. Of these six dogs, two had focal dorsal distribution, one had focal central, one had focal ventral and two had uniform distribution. Focal dorsal distribution could result from streamlining of the radionuclide into the right divisional branch of the portal vein. Focal ventral distribution could result from streamlining the radionuclide into the left divisional branch of the portal vein. Focal central distribution could result from streamlining the radionuclide into the central divisional branch of the portal vein.
OPTIMIZED DIFFERENTIATION SCHEMES ON NON-UNIFORM GRIDS FOR COMPUTATIONAL AEROACOUSTICS
Authors: AVITAL E. J.
Published: December 2004

Dispersion-relation-preserving (DRP) spatial differentiation schemes are investigated for staggered non-uniform finite-volume grid type. It is shown that the staggering improves the numerical accuracy and stability whether the grid is uniform or non-uniform. The effect of the non-uniformity in the grid on the optimization procedure of the schemes is discussed. The spatial differentiation schemes are tested for the aeroacoustic problems of monopole and quadrupole radiation, showing the effectiveness of the non-uniform grid and the optimized high-order scheme.
The Nature of Materials Science Publishing
Authors: Gregory Peter
Published: December 2004

The best way to present results, opinion, news and information to the widest possible audience is the subject under discussion. As, in this issue, Advanced Materials and Angewandte Chemie appear together for the last time, it is appropriate to comment on the approaches taken by leading journals both in materials science and in other areas.
A new route to highly conducting polyenes
Authors: Hopf Henning , Kretschmer Olaf , Naarmann Herbert
Published: December 2004

Polymeric films synthesized by the simple heat treatment of allene (propadiene) and several terminal alkynes exhibit a lo9 fold increase in electrical conductivity when doped with iodine. The new synthetic method obviates the need for catalysts and the washing process needed to remove impurities from the polymer.
Powder metallurgy (PM'89) in Fan Diego
Authors: Laag Rainhard
Published: December 2004

Rainhard Laag reports on the Powder Metallurgy '89 meeting, Hugh Byrne gives us a taste of macromolecular physics in Poland and Peter Bachmann describes a recent meeting on surface modification technology held in Switzerland.
Macromolecular physics in Lodz
Authors: Byrne Hugh J.
Published: December 2004

Rainhard Laag reports on the Powder Metallurgy '89 meeting, Hugh Byrne gives us a taste of macromolecular physics in Poland and Peter Bachmann describes a recent meeting on surface modification technology held in Switzerland.
A novel technique for the preparation of metal clusters in dielectric matrices
Authors: Lamber Ryszard , Baalmann Alfred , Jaeger Nils I. , Schulz‐Ekloff Günter , Wetjen Stefan
Published: December 2004

Metal clusters trapped in solid‐state matrices can be produced in various wayas. The new method presented here relies on the simultaneous plasma polymerization of a vinyltrimethylsilane monomer and deposition of metal clusters (e.g., Au, Ag, Pd) by an inert gas evaporation technique. The characterization by TEM, XPS, and UV‐vis and FTIR spectroscopy of amonorphous plasma‐polymer films containing gold clusters is described, which revelas that the clusters areunigorm in size and crystalline.
The deposition of aluminum nitride thin films by metal‐organic CVD—an alternative precursor system
Authors: Jones Anthony C. , Auld John , Rushworth Simon A. , Williams Edward W. , Haycock Peter W. , Tang Chiu C. , Critchlow Gary W.
Published: December 2004

Thin films of aluminum nitride have applications in magnetooptic multilayer structures. Methods must therefore be developed for depositing thin films of this commercially important material at low to moderate substrate temperatures. Conventional CVD riquires a high substrate. The preliminary results presented here show that AIN films grown by metalorganic CVD using Me3Al combined with either tertiary butylamine of isoproplamine, a technique avoiding the above problems, are of sufficient quality for magnetooptical applications. A possible deposition mechanism is proposed.
Polymer‐protected cu/pd bimetallic clusters
Authors: Toshima Naoki , Wang Yuan
Published: December 2004

Polymer‐protected bimetallic clusters areexcellent candidates as catalysts for various chemical reactions. For Example, Cu/Pd clusters accelerate the hydration of acrylonitrile (See Figure). However, hurdles femain to be overcome in their preparation. Following a brief overview of preparative techniques, details are given of a new method for the preparation of Cu/Pd binetallic clusters protected by poly(N‐vinyl‐2pyrrolidone) from bimetallic hydroxide colloids.

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Polymeric Gas Separation Membrances
Authors: Hensema Edwin R.
Published: December 2004

Synthetic gas separation membranes have developed tremendously since the first commercial system was introduced just 15 years ago. Factors affecting the permeabilities and selectivities of new “tailor‐made” membrane materials are discussed. For example, because the p‐isomer is more rod‐like than the m‐isomer chain shown in the figure, the resulting membranes have a higher permeability.

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The first evidence for the generation of radicals and formation of electrically conducting molecular materials by protic doping of tetrathiafulvalenes
Authors: Giffard Michel , Alonso Pablo , Garín Javier , Gorgues Alain , Nguyen Thien Phap , Richomme Pascal , Robert Albert , Roncali Jean , Uriel Santiago
Published: December 2004

Protic acid doping of organic materials can be used to form conductive materials, see Figure. In an attempt to identify the mechanism of charge transfer in materials formed in this way, this first evidence is presented for the occurrence of radicals in the TTF + TTFH⊕ system (TTF us tetrathiafulvalene).

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Tailoring the molecular sieving action of zeolite Y with MOCVD‐type reagents
Authors: Ozin Geoffrey A. , Steele Mark R.
Published: December 2004

A novel method of engineering the supercage aperture in zeolite Y that can produce zeolites with highly tunable pore sizes is described. The room temperature reaction of metal organic chemical vapor deposition species such as (CH3)2Zn or (CH3)2Cd with Brønsted acid sites in HπNa36−nY leads to anchored ZOZnCH3 or ZOCdCH3 moieties located at specific sites in the supercage of zeolite Y that can discriminate between H2S and H2Se. This degree of chemoselectivity will increase the number of potential practical applications of molecular sieves.
Scanning force microscopy on silver island film: Correlation between particle geometry and optical properties
Authors: Schimmel Thomas , Bingler Hans‐Georg , Franzke Dieter , Wokaun Alexander
Published: December 2004

The behavior of metal island films needs to be studied if such films are to be used, as envisaged, in optical data communication and sensor technologies. The changes in surface topography of Ag island films on glass substrates upon thermal annealing (see Figure) and laser irradiation, as revealed by atomic force microscopy, are reported and correlated with the results of optical absorption supectrometry.

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Molecular/organic magenets–potential applications
Authors: Miller Joel S.
Published: December 2004

Interest in molecular magnets has so far mainly been confined to scientific aspects, but their potential technological applications are wide ranging. Here their use in lightweight transformers and generators, magnetic shielding, and magnetic and magneto‐optic recording media are discussed. The Figure shows a powder sample of the room‐temperature V(TCNE)x · y(solvent) magnet being attracted to a Co5Sm magnet.

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Triplet emission from π‐conjugated polymers
Authors: Xu Bai , Holdcroft Steven
Published: December 2004

The triplet state in π‐conjugated polymers is difficult to detect owing to the absence of phosphorescence. However applications of electroluminescence from π‐conjugated polymers have made a detailed understanding of these photophysical and photochemical processes essential. The role of the triplet state in polythiophenes is explored. Experimental evidence for the existence of the triplet state is presented, and its importance for estimates of the electron‐electron Coulombic interaction discussed.