bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Cytokinin on Growth, Quality and Yield of French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cv. Ellora No. 11
Authors: De Puspita , Bahadur Vijay , Topno Samir E.
Published: April 2024

The experiment was conducted during Rabi season November – March, 2022-2023 at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, and Prayagraj (UP). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments and 3 replication to study the “Effect of GA3 and Cytokinin on growth, quality and yield of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cv. Ellora No 11.” The treatments which areT0: Control, T1:GA3@200ppm, T2: GA3@400ppm, T3:GA3@600ppm, T4:GA3@800ppm, T5:GA3@1000ppm, T6Cytokinin@250ppm, T7Cytokinin@500ppm, T8Cytokinin@750ppm, T9Cytokinin@1000ppm. The growth regulators were sprayed at 10 D.A.S in French bean. from the above experiment finding it is conclude that all the character viz., growth parameter, earliness parameter yield parameter, qualitative parameters varied significantly. Further, The result showed that the minimum days to first flowering(42.33DAS), first picking (63.33DAS) and days to 50% flowering(53.67 DAS) while the maximum  plant height(52.07cm), no. of branches(13.57), no. of leaves(214.93), number of pod per plant(21.67),pod length(16.50), pod girth(2.63cm) 1 pod weight(5.70g), yield per ha(12.35t/ha), total soluble solids (6.37°BRIX), protein (1.52%), fiber (3.89%), ascorbic acid (11.77mg)and BC ratio (3.1) was found maximum in T1:GA3@200ppm
Promoting Intentional Vocabulary Learning among EFL Learners in Saudi Arabia: The Role of Captioned and Subtitled TV Series
Authors: Almalki Rehab Saad A.
Published: April 2024

Video viewing whether a TV series, a documentary, or an excerpt can be a useful tool for exposing learners to enormous amounts of input to increase their vocabulary. Thus, this study investigates the effect of viewing of captioned and subtitled TV series in promoting vocabulary learning among EFL learners in Saudi Arabia, it also investigates the effect of the type of the on-screen text (whether English or Arabic) and proficiency level in gaining vocabulary. Data for this study were collected using a quantitative experimental approach. A total of 19 intermediate Saudi female learners participated in this study, they were assigned randomly into two different groups: captions group and subtitles group, both groups were viewing two episodes of a TV series. A pre and post-tests were administered to measure form recall and meaning recall gains of vocabulary. Results showed that the audio-visual input helped participants learn vocabulary in terms of meaning recall and form recall for both groups however the relative gains were found to be comparatively more in the captions group in terms of form recall with no statistically significant difference. With the meaning recall, the subtitles groups showed comparatively higher relative gains without any statistical significance. The relative gains were comparatively higher among students with B2 proficiency than those with A2 in both meaning recall and form recall, irrespective of the groups (p>0.05). The analysis also showed no effect of language of the on-screen text on either form or meaning recall. Taken together, these results suggest that audio-visual materials may aid students in learning and developing new vocabulary in EFL classrooms. Teachers can utilize them to supplement pupils' lack of vocabulary along with their textbooks by piquing their interest and stimulating their curiosity.
Chitin binding by Thermobifida fusca cellulase catalytic domains
Authors: Li Yongchao , Wilson David B.
Published: February 2008

Cellulose is a linear homopolymer of β 1‐4 linked glucose residues. Chitin is similar to cellulose in structure, and can be described as cellulose with the hydroxyl group on the C2 carbon replaced by an acetylamine group. Both cellulose and chitin form tightly packed, extensively hydrogen‐bonded micro‐fibrils. Up to now, binding of cellulase catalytic domains (CDs) to chitin has not been reported. In this article, binding of the CDs of Thermobifida fusca Cel6A, Cel6B, Cel48A, Cel5A, and Cel9A to α‐chitin was investigated. The CDs of endocellulases, Cel6A and Cel5A did not bind to α‐chitin; one exocellulase, Cel48A CD bound α‐chitin moderately well; and the exocellulase Cel6B CD and the processive endocellulase Cel9A CD bound extremely tightly to α‐chitin. Only mutations of Cel6B W329C, W332A and G234S and Cel9A Y206F, Y206S and D261A/R378K caused weaker binding to α‐chitin than wild‐type, and all these mutations were of residues near the catalytic center. One mutant enzyme, Cel9A D261A/R378K had weak chitinase activity, but no soluble products were detected. Chitotriose and chitotetraose were docked successfully to the catalytic cleft of Cel9A. In general, the positioning of the sugar residues in the model structures matched the cellooligosaccharides in the X‐ray structure. Our results show that the binding of chitin by a cellulase can provide additional information about its binding to cellulose. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2008;100: 644–652. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Wnt2 acts as a cell type–specific, autocrine growth factor in rat hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells cross-stimulating the VEGF pathway
Authors: Klein Diana , Demory Alexandra , Peyre Francis , Kroll Jens , Augustin Hellmut G. , Helfrich Wijnand , Kzhyshkowska Julia , Schledzewski Kai , Arnold Bernd , Goerdt Sergij
Published: February 2008

The mechanisms regulating the growth and differentiation of hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (HSECs) are not well defined. Because Wnt signaling has become increasingly important in developmental processes such as vascular and hepatic differentiation, we analyzed HSEC-specific Wnt signaling in detail. Using highly pure HSECs isolated by a newly developed protocol selecting against nonsinusoidal hepatic endothelial cells, we comparatively screened the multiple components of the Wnt pathway for differential expression in HSECs and lung microvascular endothelial cells (LMECs) via reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). As confirmed via quantitative RT-PCR and northern and western blotting experiments, Wnt2 (and less so Wnt transporter wls/evi) and Wnt coreceptor Ryk were overexpressed by HSECs, whereas Wnt inhibitory factor (WIF) was strongly overexpressed by LMECs. Exogenous Wnt2 superinduced proliferation of HSECs (

P

< 0.05). The Wnt inhibitor secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (sFRP1) (

P

< 0.005) and transfection of HSECs with Wnt2 small interfering RNA (siRNA) reduced proliferation of HSECs. These effects were rescued by exogenous Wnt2. Tube formation of HSECs on matrigel was strongly inhibited by Wnt inhibitors sFRP1 and WIF (

P

< 0.0005). Wnt signaling in HSECs activated the canonical pathway inducing nuclear translocation of β-catenin. GST (glutathione transferase) pull-down and co-immunoprecipitation assays showed Fzd4 to be a novel Wnt2 receptor in HSECs. Gene profiling identified vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) as a target of Wnt2 signaling in HSECs. Inhibition of Wnt signaling down-regulated VEGFR-2 messenger RNA and protein. Wnt2 siRNA knock-down confirmed Wnt2 specificity of VEGFR-2 regulation in HSECs.

Conclusion:

Wnt2 is an autocrine growth and differentiation factor specific for HSECs that synergizes with the VEGF signaling pathway to exert its effects.
Serum aminotransferase activity and mortality risk in a United States community
Authors: Lee Tae Hoon , Kim Ray W. , Benson Joanne T. , Therneau Terry M. , Melton Joseph L.
Published: February 2008

Serum aminotransferase [such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT)] is commonly used as an indicator of liver disease. The aim of the study was to determine the degree to which aminotransferase results are associated with increased mortality at the population level. All adult residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, who had a health care encounter at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, in 1995 were identified and their AST or ALT results extracted from a laboratory database. These subjects were followed forward from January 1995 to April 2006 and their survival determined. To exclude patients with abnormal results because of a terminal illness, deaths within the first 2 years were excluded. The main outcome measure was survival. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated, based on Minnesota White death rates. During 1995, AST was measured at least once in 18,401 community residents, of whom 2,350 (13%) had results greater than the upper limit of normal (ULN). Of 6,823 subjects who had their ALT measured, 911 (13%) had results higher than ULN. Abnormal AST was associated with a significantly increased SMR (1.32 for 1–2× ULN and 1.78 for >2× ULN). SMR was also higher for abnormal ALT (SMR = 1.21 for 1–2× ULN and 1.51 for >2× ULN). In contrast, normal AST or ALT was associated with a risk of death lower than expected (SMR 0.95 for AST, 0.61 for ALT).

Conclusion:

Serum levels of AST and ALT obtained in a routine medical care setting are associated with future mortality in community residents.
Acetylsalicylic acid inhibits hepatitis C virus RNA and protein expression through cyclooxygenase 2 signaling pathways
Authors: Trujillo-Murillo Karina , Rincón-Sánchez Ana Rosa , Martínez-Rodríguez Herminia , Bosques-Padilla Francisco , Ramos-Jiménez Javier , Barrera-Saldaña Hugo A. , Rojkind Marcos , Rivas-Estilla Ana María
Published: February 2008

It has been reported that salicylates (sodium salicylate and aspirin) inhibit the replication of flaviviruses, such as Japanese encephalitis virus and dengue virus. Therefore, we considered it important to test whether acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) had anti–hepatitis C virus (HCV) activity. To this end, we examined the effects of ASA on viral replication and protein expression, using an HCV subgenomic replicon cell culture system. We incubated Huh7 replicon cells with 2-8 mM ASA for different times and measured HCV-RNA and protein levels by northern blot, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western analysis, respectively. We found that ASA had a suppressive effect on HCV-RNA and protein levels (nearly 58%). ASA-dependent inhibition of HCV expression was not mediated by the 5′-internal ribosome entry site or 3′-untranslated regions, as determined by transfection assays using bicistronic constructs containing these regulatory regions. However, we found that HCV-induced cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) messenger RNA and protein levels and activity and these effects were down-regulated by ASA, possibly by a nuclear factor kappa B–independent mechanism. We also observed that the ASA-dependent inhibition of viral replication was due in part to inhibition of COX-2 and activation of p38 and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Inhibition of these kinases by SB203580 and U0126, respectively, and by short interfering RNA silencing of p38 and MEK1 MAPK prevented the antiviral effect of ASA. Taken together, our findings suggest that the anti-HCV effect of ASA in the Huh7 replicon cells is due to its inhibitory effect on COX-2 expression, which is mediated in part by the activation of MEK1/2/p38 MAPK.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest the possibility that ASA could be an excellent adjuvant in the treatment of chronic HCV infection.
Noninvasive assessment of hepatic lipid composition: Advancing understanding and management of fatty liver disorders
Authors: Johnson Nathan A. , Walton David W. , Sachinwalla Toos , Thompson Campbell H. , Smith Kate , Ruell Patricia A. , Stannard Stephen R. , George Jacob
Published: February 2008

Nonalcoholic fatty liver is frequently observed in obese individuals, yet the factors that predict its development and progression to liver disease are poorly understood. We proposed that proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) might allow noninvasive assessment of hepatic lipid composition. Lipid saturation (SI) and polyunsaturation (PUI) indices measured by 1H-MRS were in agreement with those expected in oils of known composition. Hepatic triglyceride concentration (HTGC) and composition were then measured in healthy lean (LEAN) men, obese men with normal HTGC (OB), and obese men with hepatic steatosis (OB+HS). The effect of marked changes in dietary fat consumption on hepatic lipids were also compared in lean men after 67 hours of a normal mixed (NM) diet versus a low-carbohydrate, high-saturated-fat (LCHF) diet. SI was significantly higher in OB+HS (0.970 ± 0.004) and OB (0.944 ± 0.008) versus LEAN (0.818 ± 0.025) (

P

< 0.01 for both). PUI was significantly lower in OB+HS (0.003 ± 0.001) and OB (0.022 ± 0.005) versus LEAN (0.120 ± 0.021) (P < 0.01), and significantly lower in OB+HS versus OB (

P

< 0.05). LCHF diet did not alter HTGC, SI, or PUI (

P

> 0.05). The 1H-MRS method provides for rapid, qualitative assessment of lipid composition. Application of this technique in the liver produces results that are consistent with biopsy-based approaches demonstrating that relative hepatic lipid saturation increases and polyunsaturation decreases with obesity. Obesity-related hepatic steatosis is characterized by further depletion of polyunsaturated hepatic lipids.

Conclusion:

This readily available and noninvasive approach should promote further study into interactions between hepatic and whole-body lipid metabolism and help to elucidate the pathogenesis of disorders characterized by lipid accumulation within the liver.
Esophageal capsule endoscopy for screening and surveillance of esophageal varices in patients with portal hypertension
Authors: de Franchis Roberto , Eisen Glenn M. , Laine Loren , Fernandez-Urien Inaki , Herrerias Juan Manuel , Brown Russell D. , Fisher Laurel , Vargas Hugo E. , Vargo John , Thompson Julie , Eliakim Rami
Published: February 2008

Bleeding from esophageal varices (EV) is a serious consequence of portal hypertension. Current guidelines recommend screening patients with cirrhosis with esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to detect varices. However, the unpleasantness and need for sedation of EGD may limit adherence to screening programs. Pilot studies have shown good performance of esophageal capsule endoscopy in detecting varices. This multicenter trial was designed to assess the diagnostic performance of capsule endoscopy in comparison with EGD. Patients undergoing EGD for screening or surveillance of EV underwent a capsule study previously. The study was designed as an equivalence study, assuming that a difference of ≤10% between capsule endoscopy and EGD in diagnosing EV would demonstrate equivalence. Two hundred eighty-eight patients were enrolled. Endoscopy was for screening in 195 patients and for surveillance of known EV in 93. Overall agreement for detecting EV between EGD and capsule endoscopy was 85.8%; the kappa score was 0.73. Capsule endoscopy had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 84%, 88%, 92%, and 77%, respectively. The difference in diagnosing EV was 15.6% in favor of EGD. There was complete agreement on variceal grade in 227 of 288 cases (79%). In differentiating between medium/large varices requiring treatment and small/absent varices requiring surveillance, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for capsule endoscopy were 78%, 96%, 87%, and 92%, respectively. Overall agreement on treatment decisions based on EV size was substantial at 91% (kappa = 0.77).

Conclusion:

We recommend that EGD be used to screen patients with cirrhosis for large EV. However, the minimal invasiveness, good tolerance, and good agreement of capsule endoscopy with EGD might increase adherence to screening programs. Whether this is the case needs to be determined.
Metastases and multiple myeloma generate distinct transcriptional footprints in osteocytes in vivo
Authors: Eisenberger S , Ackermann K , Voggenreiter G , Sültmann H , Kasperk C , Pyerin W
Published: February 2008

Osteocytes are the most abundant bone cells, playing important roles in tissue maintenance. Little is known of how they react in vivo to cancer stress. Here we present a comparative study of the effect of a bone‐residing tumour (myeloma) and metastases of bone‐remote cancers on osteocytes. While no differences in morphology of the bone are seen, the changes in the transcriptome of osteocytes are specifically related to the tumour stress present. Screening ∼22 000 genes in osteocytes prepared from cryosections of native bone using laser‐supported microdissection, we observed ∼1400 and ∼1800 gene expression differences between osteocytes dissected from normal bone compared with those associated with metastases and multiple myeloma, respectively. The genes up‐regulated due to the stress exerted by metastases were repressed by multiple myeloma and vice versa, indicating stress‐specific footprints in the transcriptome of osteocytes. Functionally, the stressors seem to impose selective pressures on signalling pathways such as that of TGFβ, a major player in bone biology. Our data show for the first time that the transcriptome of osteocytes in vivo becomes strongly affected by cancer stress, generating gene expression footprints which, in contrast to comparable morphological changes, appear to relate to the nature of cancer and might thus become helpful in distinguishing different bone diseases. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Frizzled‐1 is down‐regulated in follicular thyroid tumours and modulates growth and invasiveness
Authors: Ulivieri A , Lavra L , Dominici R , Giacomelli L , Brunetti E , Sciacca L , Trovato M , Barresi G , Foukakis T , Jia‐Jing L , Larsson C , Bartolazzi A , Sciacchitano S
Published: February 2008

The mechanisms of follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) transformation and progression are not well understood. Previously, we detected LOH at 7q21 in all FTCs examined, indicating that loss of genetic material in that region is a common trait in these lesions. To analyse the effects of LOH on gene expression, we performed an analysis of the mRNA expression levels of six different genes, located at 7q21.1–7q21.3. A total of 23 lesions, including eight follicular hyperplasias (FHs), eight follicular adenomas (FAs), two FTCs and five papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs) were analysed. The Frizzled‐1 (FZD‐1) gene, located at 7q21.13, showed the lowest levels of mRNA expression. Down‐regulation of FZD‐1 expression was also confirmed in an independent series of 69 follicular neoplastic lesions compared to 25 PTCs, analysed by quantitative RT–PCR. In vitro studies showed that FZD‐1 expression was also markedly reduced at both protein and mRNA levels in three FTC‐derived cell lines (FRO, WRO and FTC‐133), while it was normal in the three PTC‐derived cell lines (Ca300, Ca301 and K1) examined. We demonstrated that over‐expression of FZD‐1 in 3 FTC‐derived cells decreased invasiveness and proliferation rate, indicating a possible pathogenetic role. In addition, FZD‐1 RNA interference in the PTC‐derived cell line K1 increased invasiveness. Our data indicated that FZD‐1 is involved in growth of follicular tumours and may be considered as a novel marker of this type of tumour. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of Size Distributions of Concentrated Polymer Particles Embedded in a Solid Polymer Matrix
Authors: Soulé Ezequiel R. , Eliçabe Guillermo E.
Published: February 2008

In this work we present the results obtained from the size characterization of polymer particles embedded in a solid polymer matrix using Static Light Scattering (SLS) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The analyzed samples are the result of the solution polymerization of isobornyl methacrylate (IBoMA) in polyisobutylene (PIB) at complete conversion. Induced by polymerization, the system undergoes phase separation. As a result, spherical micron sized particles rich in PIB are formed. At the end of the polymerization, the particles become trapped in a solid polymer matrix rich in Poly‐IBoMA. Size, concentration, and refractive index, make the resulting particle system scatter light under the Rayleigh‐Debye‐Gans (RDG) regime with interparticle interference. For Light Scattering (LS) characterization the samples are measured with a Flat Cell Static Light Scattering (FCSLS) apparatus, in which the reaction takes place. The resulting SLS spectra are analyzed using the Percus‐Yevick approximation to model the interference effects. The local monodisperse approximation is used to consider polydispersity in the particle sizes. The estimated particle size distributions agree well with the measurements from SEM. In this work a concentrated particle system that naturally scatters light according to the RDG regime has been fully characterized in terms of its particle size distribution. This work, against the opinion of other authors, shows the feasibility of measuring still particles using a one dimensional array of light detectors.
Fabrication and characterization of self‐assembled InGaN quantum dots by periodic interruption growth
Authors: Choi Seung‐Kyu , Jang Jae‐Min , Jhin Jung‐Keun , Jung Woo‐Gwang
Published: February 2008

A trial was carried out to fabricate self‐assembled InGaN QD structures through periodic interruption growth, which is new method for supplying the source materials in a metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) reactor. The growth of InGaN QDs was interrupted periodically by stopping the ammonia gas for selected time periods during periodic interruption growth. The change in surface morphology was investigated during the progress of InGaN QD growth. In addi‐ tion, the morphological and optical characteristics were compared with respect to the period time of 3 or 5 seconds for growth and interruption. InGaN QDs of 25–35 nm in lateral size were grown on GaN surfaces with a density of approximately 4–15 × 1010 cm–2. The composition of QDs was estimated to be In0.14Ga0.86N. Periodic interruption growth enables the fabrication of self‐assembled InGaN QDs with high density and uniform‐size. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Eigenfunctions of the 2‐dimensional anisotropic elasticity operator and algebraic equivalent materials
Authors: Specovius‐Neugebauer M. , Steigemann M.
Published: February 2008

The displacement field of an elastic anisotropic solid with a crack has an asymptotic expansion near the crack tip in terms of special solutions of the homogeneous elasticity problem in the whole plane with a semi‐infinite crack. These so‐called eigenfunctions of the elasticity operator and their coefficients play an essential role in the determination of crack paths. Eigenfunctions are exactly known for isotropic solids, but not for anisotropic ones. Using the concept of algebraically equivalent materials, analytical expressions of the eigenfunctions can be presented for all classes of anisotropic materials which are algebraically equivalent to isotropic materials. The paper contains a complete characterization of these materials. For arbitrary materials, the polynomial eigenfunctions are found analytically, while for the remaining eigenfunctions a simple and efficient method is presented for the numerical computation.
Secrets to Creating Effective and Interesting Educational Experiences: Tips and Suggestions for Clinical Educators
Authors: Seibert Diane C.
Published: February 2008

Genetic Counselors (GCs) spend years learning about genetics and practicing counseling techniques in classroom environments. From the learner perspective, teaching may seem straightforward: provide appropriate information, develop tests or assignments and submit grades. When asked to teach for the first time, however, clinicians suddenly realize that there is a lot more to education than standing in front of a class and talking. This article introduces clinical educators to strategies and learning principles that help make the teaching/learning process more interesting and successful for faculty and students alike. The instructional concepts presented here are useful across the entire spectrum of learning situations; a 1 hour discussion with a lay audience, a 3 hour workshop at a professional meeting, a 15 week graduate course, or a series of courses culminating in an advanced degree. The article offers suggestions for writing course competencies, selecting instructional approaches, embedding learning engagement options, leveling course content and choosing evaluation strategies.
Efficacy model for mosquito stage transmission blocking vaccines for malaria
Authors: SAUL A.
Published: February 2008

Vaccines that target antigens found on the mosquito stages of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax parasites are under development as transmission blocking vaccines. Antisera from vaccinated animals and humans are able to block oocyst development in artificially fed mosquitoes but it is not clear from these data what level of antibody response would be required for a useful vaccine in a field setting. This paper describes a mathematical model that takes into account the relationship between antibody levels and blocking of oocyst levels in artificial feeds, the distribution of antibody responses seen in human populations and the distribution of oocyst densities in infected mosquitoes in the field to calculate the levels of antibody in the host population that would be required to achieve a level of herd immunity in a vaccinated human population that would give an operationally useful level of transmission blocking. The model predicts that current formulations of Pfs25 are likely to achieve useful reductions in transmission when tested in human field trials.
Rat hippocampal GABAergic molecular markers are differentially affected by ageing
Authors: Vela José , Gutierrez Antonia , Vitorica Javier , Ruano Diego
Published: February 2008

We previously reported that the pharmacological properties of the hippocampal GABAA receptor and the expression of several subunits are modified during normal ageing. However, correlation between these post‐synaptic modifications and pre‐synaptic deficits were not determined. To address this issue, we have analysed the mRNA levels of several GABAergic molecular markers in young and old rat hippocampus, including glutamic acid decarboxylase enzymes, parvalbumin, calretinin, somatostatin, neuropeptide Y and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). There was a differential age‐related decrease in these interneuronal mRNAs that was inversely correlated with up‐regulation of the α1 GABA receptor subunit. Somatostatin and neuropeptide Y mRNAs were most frequently affected (75% of the animals), then calretinin and VIP mRNAs (50% of the animals), and parvalbumin mRNA (25% of the animals) in the aged hippocampus. This selective vulnerability was well correlated at the protein/cellular level as analysed by immunocytochemistry. Somatostatin interneurones, which mostly innervate principal cell distal dendrites, were more vulnerable than calretinin interneurones, which target other interneurones. Parvalbumin interneurones, which mostly innervate perisomatic domains of principal cells, were preserved. This age‐dependent differential reduction of specific hippocampal inteneuronal subpopulations might produce functional alterations in the GABAergic tone which might be compensated, at the post‐synaptic level, by up‐regulation of the expression of the α1 GABAA receptor subunit.
Blockade of ionotropic glutamate receptors produces neuronal apoptosis through the Bax‐cytochrome C‐caspase pathway: the causative role of Ca2+ deficiency
Authors: Yoon W. J. , Won S. J. , Ryu B. R. , Gwag B. J.
Published: February 2008

Blockade of ionotropic glutamate receptors induces neuronal cell apoptosis. We investigated if mitochondria‐mediated death signals would contribute to neuronal apoptosis following administration of glutamate antagonists. The administration of MK‐801 and CNQX (MK‐801/CNQX), the selective antagonists of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) and α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)/kainate receptors, produced widespread neuronal death in neonatal rat brain and cortical cell cultures. MK‐801/CNQX‐induced neuronal apoptosis was prevented by zVAD‐fmk, a broad inhibitor of caspases, but insensitive to inhibitors of calpain or cathepsin D. Activation of caspase‐3 was observed within 6–12 h and sustained over 36 h after exposure to MK‐801/CNQX, which cleaved PHF‐1 tau, the substrate for caspase‐3. Activation of caspase‐3 was blocked by high K+ and mimicked by BAPTA‐AM, a selective Ca2+ chelator. Reducing extracellular Ca2+, but not Na+, activated caspase‐3, suggesting an essential role of Ca2+ deficiency in MK‐801/CNQX‐induced activation of caspases. Cortical neurons treated with MK‐801/CNQX triggered activation of caspase‐9, release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, and translocation of Bax into mitochondria. The present study suggests that blockade of ionotropic glutamate receptors causes caspase‐3‐mediated neuronal apoptosis due to Ca2+ deficiency that is coupled to the sequential mitochondrial death pathway.
Ag ion generation irradiated by Nd:YAG laser onto solid target for use of direct plasma injection scheme
Authors: Kanesue Takeshi , Tamura Jun , Okamura Masahiro
Published: February 2008

Direct plasma injection scheme (DPIS) is an acceleration scheme which consists of laser ion source and a radio frequency quadrupole linac (RFQ) linac for high current heavy ion acceleration. With this scheme, over 60mA of carbon and aluminum beam was achieved at the RFQ exit. We are planning to accelerate Ag ions as a heavier material than used previously. Ag plasma properties using Nd:YAG laser (2.3J∕6ns) were measured toward the acceleration with DPIS. The results showed that the highest ion yield was obtained at Ag15+. Based on these results, multicharged Ag ion transportation inside RFQ was simulated and the expected current at the exit of RFQ was over 14mA for Ag15+ using the RFQ dedicated for Ag acceleration.
Electronic structure of collinear states in magnetically ordered phases of some alloys of the system Fe2−xMnxAs
Authors: Val’kov V. I. , Golovchan A. V.
Published: February 2008

First-principles calculations using the SPRKKR program package are done to investigate the electronic and magnetic structures of some alloys of the Fe2−xMnxAs system with a tetragonal crystal structure C38 (space group P4∕nmm). Different versions of collinear antiferromagnetic (x=1.29) and ferrimagnetic (x=1.29, 1.31, 1.35) structures, in which the magnetic moments of the atoms lie in the basal plane of a tetragonal lattice, are considered. It is shown that in Fe0.71Mn1.29As the lowest energy belongs to an antiferromagnetic structure of the Fe2As type. To determine the possible magnetic structure of the ferrimagnetic phase that is induced in the given alloys by a magnetic field, a study was done for the four possible ferrimagnetic configurations for which the magnetic cell is the same as the crystallographic cell. It is found that for one of them the dependence of the magnetization on the Mn concentration is in qualitative agreement with the experimental data. It is shown that for all the antiferromagnetic and ferrimagnetic configurations studied, the value of the magnetic moments is not noticeably affected by a change of their orientation. Based on a comparison of the results of the calculations with various experimental data, it is concluded that there is a demand for refined neutron-diffraction studies of the Fe2−xMnxAs system in the concentration region 1.29≤x≤1.52.
The role of the Weibel instability at the reconnection jet front in relativistic pair plasma reconnection
Authors: Zenitani S. , Hesse M.
Published: February 2008

The role of the Weibel instability is investigated for the first time in the context of the large-scale magnetic reconnection problem. A late-time evolution of magnetic reconnection in relativistic pair plasmas is demonstrated by particle-in-cell simulations. In the outflow regions, powerful reconnection jets pile up the magnetic fields and then a contact discontinuity appears there. Further downstream, it is found that the two-dimensional extension of the relativistic Weibel instability generates electromagnetic fields, which are comparable to the antiparallel or piled-up fields. In a microscopic viewpoint, the instability allows the plasma’s multiple interactions with the discontinuity. In a macroscopic viewpoint, the instability leads to rapid expansion of the current sheet and then the reconnection jet front further propagates into the downstream. Possible application to the three-dimensional case is briefly discussed.
Resistance switching characteristics in Li-doped NiO
Authors: Jung Kyooho , Choi Joonhyuk , Kim Yongmin , Im Hyunsik , Seo Sunae , Jung Ranju , Kim DongChul , Kim J.-S. , Park B. H. , Hong J. P.
Published: February 2008

We investigated the effects of lithium (Li)-doping on bi-stable resistance switching in polycrystalline NiO film in the temperature range of 10 K<T<300 K. Compliance-dependent resistive switching transport revealed some distinctive and interesting features not observed in undoped NiO films previously studied. An analysis of the temperature dependence of the resistive switching transport showed that Li-doping could modify the thermal properties of the off-state leading to a stable on/off switching operation. It is clearly shown that doping Li in NiO can improve NiO’s retention properties and stability of on/off switching voltages.
A new diluted magnetic semiconductor: The half-metallic ferromagnet CoTi1−xFexSb
Authors: Balke Benjamin , Kroth Kristian , Fecher Gerhard H. , Felser Claudia
Published: February 2008

C 1 b compounds with 18 valence electrons are semiconducting. It will be shown that doping with electrons results in half-metallic ferromagnets, similar to the case of diluted semiconductors. CoTiSb is known to be a semiconducting C1b compound. Doping by Fe is expected to result in ferromagnetic order. It was found that Ti can be replaced by up to about 10% Fe while its crystal structure still remains C1b, which was proved by x-ray powder diffraction. Superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry revealed a magnetic moment of 0.32μB∕unit cell at 5K.
Low-frequency negative capacitance in La0.8Sr0.2MnO3∕Nb-doped SrTiO3 heterojunction
Authors: Wang C. C. , Liu G. Z. , He M. , Lu H. B.
Published: February 2008

Low-frequency (100Hz⩽f⩽1MHz) dielectric properties of La0.8Sr0.2MnO3∕Nb-doped SrTiO3 heterojunctions were investigated in detail at room temperature. Negative capacitance was observed at low frequencies under positive dc biases. This phenomenon was found to result from the combinational contributions from the Maxwell–Wagner interfacial relaxation and the dipolar relaxation related to detrapped carriers which give rise to inductive effect under an applied electric field.
Involvement of the p38 Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase α, β, and γ Isoforms in Myogenic Differentiation
Authors: Wang Haixia , Xu Qing , Xiao Fang , Jiang Yong , Wu Zhenguo
Published: February 2008

We and others previously showed that p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase is indispensable for myogenic differentiation. However, it is less clear which of the four p38 isoforms in the mouse genome participates in this process. Using C2C12 myogenic cells as a model, we showed here that p38α, β, and γ are expressed with distinct expression patterns during differentiation. Knockdown of any of them by small interfering RNA inhibits myogenic differentiation, which suggests that the functions of the three p38 isoforms are not completely redundant. To further elucidate the unique role of each p38 isoform in myogenic differentiation, we individually knocked down one p38 isoform at a time in C2C12 cells, and we compared the whole-genome gene expression profiles by microarrays. We found that some genes are coregulated by all three p38 isoforms, whereas others are uniquely regulated by one particular p38 isoform. Furthermore, several novel p38 target genes (i.e., E2F2, cyclin D3, and WISP1) are found to be required for myogenin expression, which provides a molecular basis to explain why different p38 isoforms are required for myogenic differentiation.
Diffusion Coefficient of Fluorescent Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate in the Plasma Membrane of Cells
Authors: Golebiewska Urszula , Nyako Marian , Woturski William , Zaitseva Irina , McLaughlin Stuart
Published: February 2008

Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) controls a surprisingly large number of processes in cells. Thus, many investigators have suggested that there might be different pools of PIP2on the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. If a significant fraction of PIP2is bound electrostatically to unstructured clusters of basic residues on membrane proteins, the PIP2diffusion constant, D, should be reduced. We microinjected micelles of Bodipy TMR-PIP2into cells, and we measured D on the inner leaflet of fibroblasts and epithelial cells by using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. The average ± SD value from all cell types was D = 0.8 ± 0.2 μm2/s (n = 218; 25°C). This is threefold lower than the D in blebs formed on Rat1 cells, D = 2.5 ± 0.8 μm2/s (n = 26). It is also significantly lower than the D in the outer leaflet or in giant unilamellar vesicles and the diffusion coefficient for other lipids on the inner leaflet of these cell membranes. The simplest interpretation is that approximately two thirds of the PIP2on inner leaflet of these plasma membranes is bound reversibly.
Effect of Inoculum Density and Soil Tillage on the Development and Severity of Rhizoctonia Root Rot
Authors: Schroeder K. L. , Paulitz T. C.
Published: February 2008

Rhizoctonia spp. cause substantial yield losses in direct-seeded cereal crops compared with conventional tillage. To investigate the mechanisms behind this increased disease, soils from tilled or direct-seeded fields were inoculated with Rhizoctonia spp. at population densities from 0.8 to 250 propagules per gram and planted with barley (Hordeum vulgare). The incidence and severity of disease did not differ between soils with different tillage histories. Both R. solani AG-8 and R. oryzae stunted plants at high inoculum densities, with the latter causing pre-emergence damping-off. High inoculum densities of both species stimulated early production of crown roots in barley seedlings. Intact soil cores from these same tilled and direct-seeded fields were used to evaluate the growth of Rhizoctonia spp. from colonized oat seeds. Growth of R. oryzae was not affected by previous tillage history. However, R. solani AG-8 grew more rapidly through soil from a long-term direct-seeded field compared to tilled soils. The differential response between these two experiments (mixed, homogenized soil versus intact soil) suggests that soil structure plays a major role in the proliferation of R. solani AG-8 through soils with different tillage histories.
ALCOHOL IN ANCIENT JEWISH LITERATURE.*
Authors: FELDMAN W. M.
Published: February 2008

DILR OLLESTOhNas given such a complete and accurate account of the subject of “ Alcoholism in Classical Antiquity” that there is very little left to add or to criticize. It seems to me, therefore, that the most profitable way of contributing to the discussion on his excellent paper is to compare the Greek and Roman views upon the subject with those held by their contemporaries, the Ancient Hebrews. It will be best to deal with the subject under the headings of (1) Ante‐Natal Effects; (2) PostNatal Effects.
Some Comments on Pittman's “Rush to Combine”
Authors: POPHAM ROBERT E. , LINT JAN E. E. DE , SCHMIDT WOLFGANG
Published: February 2008

Résumé— Il est débattu que les dissemblances entre l'alcoolisme et autres intoxications citées par Pittman dans sa publication “Rush to Combine” logiquement échouent de soutenir son affirmation que les deux sphères soient traitées de la même façon. Également il y des nombreuses différences entre les patients d'une seule clinique de maladies mentales ou parmi les groupes dépendant d'autre remèdes psychoactifs ou les malades alcooliques eux‐mêmes. On arrive á la conclusion que des avantages distincts mènent á un accès compréhensif. Par exemple il y une probabilité accrue que des “intoxications mélangées” seront identifiées et traitées et que des médicaments psychoactifs seront utilisés plus judicieusement dans le traitement des intoxiqués. D'ailleurs quand les patients impliqués sont variés quant á l'utilisation des médicaments, un champ de vue plus vaste est accompli et certaines recherches qui autrement seraient négligées, sont stimulées et justifiées.

Zusammenfassung—

Es wird behauptet, dass die Unterschiedlichkeiten zwischen Alkoholismus und anderen Arten der Abhängigkeit von Rauschgiften, die von Pittman in seiner Abhandlung “Der Drang zur Vereinheitlichung” angeführt werden, im logischen Sinne versagen, sein Argument, dass diese beiden Bereiche nicht von ein und derselben Stelle behandelt werden sollten, zu unterstützen. Ebenso zahlreiche Unterschiede herrschen bei den Insassen ein und derselben Anstalt für Geisteskranke oder bei Gruppen, die von anderen psychoaktiven Rauschgiften abhängig sind, und selbst bei den alkoholischen Insassen. Man kam zu der Schlussfolgerung, dass durch allgemeine Angriffsmethoden ausgesprochene Vorteile erzielt werden können. So besteht z.B. eine gesteigerte Möglichkeit, dass “Mischsüchtige” identifiziert sowie behandelt und psychoaktive narkotische Drogen zur Behandlung der Abhängigkeitserscheinungen wohlüberlegter eingesetzt werden. Ausserdem wird, falls Unterschiedlichkeiten in Bezug auf die Einnahme von Rauschgiften bei den betreffenden Insassen bestehen, eine weitreichendere Perspektive erzielt und gewisse Forschungen, die andererseits vernachlässigt werden könnten, werden sowohl angeregt als auch gerechtfertigt.
Binding of Morphine in Tolerant Rats
Authors: PENNA‐HERREROS A. , TAMPIER L. , SANCHEZ E.
Published: February 2008

The proportion of bound morphine: [100 (total‐free morphine): (total morphine)] in the liver and of free morphine in the blood of tolerant rats receiving a lethal dose of morphine by intravenous infusion at 1, 3, 8 and 16 days after withdrawal were studied. The results were compared with those obtained in two groups of non‐tolerant controls. One of them receiving a lethal dose of morphine and the other receiving under artificial respiration the lethal dose of tolerant rats. The alkaloids were estimated after chromatographic separation of free morphine from normorphine and other metabolites. The lethal dose of tolerant rats was significantly higher in the first 3 days after withdrawal than in the controls. The proportion of bound morphine found in the liver of tolerant rats in the first 3 days after withdrawal was significantly higher than in the controls. This increased ability of the liver of tolerant rats to bind morphine was not the consequence of the larger dose injected, since it was not observed in non‐tolerant controls receiving the same dose under artificial respiration.

In spite of the fact that the lethal dose of morphine in the first 3 days after withdrawal was significantly higher in the tolerant rats as compared with the non‐tolerant controls, the blood levels of free morphine in both groups were not significantly different.
Community attitudes towards people with mental health problems: a discourse analytic approach
Authors: COWAN S.
Published: February 2008

This paper addresses some methodological issues related to the generation of knowledge for mental health practice. It is suggested that a knowledge and understanding of attitudes towards the mentally ill has the potential to inform policy and practice regarding the establishment of community mental health facilities in order to encourage their acceptance by the public. Traditional approaches to attitude research are outlined followed by the proposal of an alternative approach: discourse analysis. The utility of each approach is assessed with regard to the potential relevance and applicability of research findings to practice. Traditional approaches are criticized on the grounds that they fail to take into consideration the social contexts within which attitudes are naturally expressed. As a result, information which is of potential interest to mental health practitioners is lost and it is unclear how the findings of such research might relate to or be translated into practice. It is argued, that since this information is to be found in the language used to describe people with mental health problems and to express attitudes towards them, that discourse analysis is ideally suited to the study of attitudes towards the mentally ill. The potential utility of the approach is demonstrated by an empirical example. Implications for practice are considered.
Initiating and terminating verbal interaction between nurses and severely demented patients regarded as vocally disruptive
Authors: EDBERG A.‐K. , SANDGREN Å NORDMARK , HALLBERG I. R.
Published: February 2008

Initiating and terminating verbal interaction between nurses and severely demented patients regarded as vocally disruptive.

The care of demented patients requires clear communication during care procedures. Earlier studies have shown that nurses were often vague in their verbal communication and unpublished observations indicated that in some cases demented patients continued to be verbally active after the nurses had left. This study aimed at exploring further the initiating and terminating phases of verbal interaction episodes between nurses and severely demented patients, to explore any relationship between nurses' communication style and vocally disruptive patients. Nine severely demented patients identified as vocally disruptive were tape‐recorded between 07.00 h and 13.00 h. Any nurse–patient interaction episode lasting more than 30 s (n= 58) during care procedures was transcribed verbatim and its verbal communication activity was analysed for content and meta communication, and a communication index was calculated. The results showed strong task orientation and decreased verbal interaction during the course of the interaction. The data supported the assumption that the nurses' communication style increases or decreases patients' vocal activity. Vocal activity after the actual interaction episode seemed to coincide with the parties' communication on various levels, with a different focus of content, and with several nurses being involved in the same procedure. Nurses may become impatient and stressed by their patients' severe communication problems and therefore need to be relieved of this stress and supported so that they can remain close to the patient and be able to interpret his/her communication.
The report of the clinical standards advisory group: standards of care for people with schizophrenia in the UK and implications for mental health nursing
Authors: GOURNAY K. , BEADSMOORE A.
Published: February 2008

The report of the clinical standards advisory group: standards of care for people with schizophrenia in the UK and implications for mental health nursing

The Clinical Standards Advisory Group Schizophrenia Committee has spent two years (1993–1995) developing a standards protocol to assist all Purchasers and Providers with the task of producing optimum services for people with schizophrenia and other serious and enduring mental illnesses. This work has been underpinned by research that included visits to a representative sample of services throughout the UK. The report of this initiative, which was published in the summer of 1995, has many implications for mental health nursing. These include the continuing necessity to focus on serious mental illness; more effort to develop multidisciplinary working and the use of the Care Programme Approach; an increased focus on relevant training in case management and psychosocial interventions; the need to recognize physical health problems; the importance of medication management; and, as the Review of Mental Health Nursing emphasized, the issue of leadership should be targeted as a priority for action.