bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progressive lightening. VI
Authors: Schonland Basil Ferdinand Jamieson , Malan D. J. , Collens H.
Published: December 2006

In the course of photographic studies of lightning with the Boys' camera, which have been described in previous papers, discharges have occasionally been observed which did not seem to fit in completely with the general picture to which the majority conformed. A sufficient number of these apparently anomalous discharges has now been obtained for their peculiarities to be cleared up and for us to be able to show that their behaviour is in accord with principles identical with whose which govern the more usual type of discharge. The anomalies to be discussed are of two binds. In the first place there are discharges which exhibit abnormal first leader processes. Some mention of these has been made in a previous paper in connexion with their electrical effects, which are characteristic and easi1y distinguishable (Schonland, Hodges and Collens 1938). Secondly there are discharges some of whose subsequent strokes adopt a new channel for park of their length.
The retardation of combustion by oxygen.
Authors: Armstrong Henry Edward
Published: December 2006

In the course of his researches on gaseous explosions, H. B. Dixon has laid stress on the fact that carbon monoxide, rather than the dioxide, is the initial product of the combustion of carbon and of its gaseous compounds; moreover, he has shown that water plays a peculiar and all-important part in the combustion of the monoxide and he has proved, in a number of cases, that oxygen is by far the most effective diluent in retarding combustion. These, in some respects, paradoxical conclusions have not yet been sufficiently explained. Recent researches emanating from the Manchester school have brought new facts to light, however, which have an important bearing on the interpretation of explosive changes—so much so, indeed, that it is no longer difficult to paint a consistent and fairly complete picture of the mechanism of combustion.
Asymptotic behaviour of the Mayer cluster sums for the Ising model in the Bethe approximation
Authors: Joyce G. S. , Mahal S. S.
Published: December 2006

The properties of the high-field polynomials

L
n
(u)

, where
u
= exp [ -4
J
/ (
k
B
T
)] are investigated for the Bethe approximation of the spin 1/2 Ising model on a lattice which has a coordination number
q
. (The polynomials

L
n
(u )

are essentially lattice gas analogues of the Mayer cluster integrals

b
n

(
T
) for a continuum gas.) In particular, a contour integral representation for

L
n

(
u
) is established by applying the Lagrange reversion theorem to the implicit equation of state for the Bethe approximation. Various saddle-point methods are then used to analyse the behaviour of the integral representation as n->∞. In this manner, asymptotic expansions for

L
n

[
u
) are obtained which are
uniformly
valid in the intervals 0 <
u
⩽
u
c
and
u
c
⩽
u
< 1, where
u
c
= [(σ-1 )/(σ + l)]
2
is the critical value of the variable
u
, σ ≡ (q-1) and σ > 1. These expansions involve the Airy function Ai (
z
) and its first derivative. The high-field polynomial

L
n

(
u
) is found to have a trivial zero at
u
= 0, and n — 1 simple non trivial zeros {
u
v
(σ,n); v = 1, 2, ...,
n
— 1} which are
all
located in the real interval
u
c
< u < 1. An asymptotic expansion for
u
v
(σ, n) in powers of n
2/3
is derived from the uniform asymptotic representation for

L
n

(
u
) which is valid in the interval
u
c
⩽
u
< 1. It is also shown that the
limiting
density of the zeros {
u
v
( σ,
n
);
v
= 1 ,2 ,...,
n
-1} as n → ∞ is given by the simple formula

ρ
(

σ

,
u
)
=
n
(
2

π

)

−
1

(
σ
+
1
)

u

−
1

(
u
−

u
c

)

1

/

2

(
1
−
u

)

−
1

/

2

where
u
c
<
u
< 1. Finally, the asymptotic properties of the Bethe polynomial

L
n

(
u
) are determined in the mean-field limit q → ∞ and J → 0 with qJ = J
0
held constant.
Chemical insights into high-temperature superconductors
Authors: Rao Chintamani Nagesa Ramachandra
Published: December 2006

The high-temperature superconductors are complex oxides, generally containing two-dimensional CuO
2
sheets. Various families of the cuprate superconductors are described, paying special attention to aspects related to oxygen stoichiometry, phase stability, synthesis and chemical manipulation of charge carriers. Other aspects discussed are chemical applications of cuprates, possibly as gas sensors and copper-free oxide superconductors. All but the substituted Nd and Pr cuprates are hole-superconductors. Several families of cuprates show a nearly constant
n
h
at maximum
T
e
. Besides this universality, the cuprates exhibit a number of striking common features. Based on Cu(2p) photoemission studies, it is found that the Cu-O charge-transfer energy, Δ, and the Cu(3d)-O(2p) hybridization strength
t
pd
, are key factors in the superconductivity of cuprates. The relative intensity of the satellite in the Cu(2p) core-level spectra, the polarizability of the CuO
2
sheets as well as the hole concentration are related to
Δ
/
t
pd
. These chemical bonding factors have to be explicitly taken into account in any model for superconductivity of the cuprates.
Head-on collision of normal shock waves with a rubber-supported wall
Authors: Mazor G. , Igra O. , Ben-Dor G. , Mond M. , Reichenbach H. , Smith F. T.
Published: December 2006

The head-on collision between a normal shock wave, propagating into a quiescent gas, and a rubber-supported plate was investigated theoretically and experimentally. In the theoretical part, a physical model was developed for describing the collision process. Three different modes in which the rubber could be loaded, due to its collision with the incident shock wave, were studied. They are: uni-axial stress loading, bi-axial stress loading and uni-axial strain loading. In the first two modes the rubber can expand while carrying the shock-wave induced compressive load, and therefore can be treated as an incompressible medium. This is not the case in a uni-axial strain loading where the rubber cannot expand while carrying the shock-wave-induced load. The model developed was based on both the conservation equations and on an appropriate strain stress relation which describes the rubber behaviour under loading. The model was solved numerically for each of the above-mentioned loading modes. Experiments were conducted in a shock tube; the rubber response to its collision with normal shock wave was studied for the case of bi-axial stress loading. Pressures, in the gas, and stresses, in the rubber, were recorded by using piezoelectric pressure transducers; the shock-wave reflection, in the gas, and the rubber displacement and compression processes were recorded on successive shadowgraphs. Good agreement was found between the experimental and numerical results for the case of bi-axial stress loading. This agreement validates the model developed for the collision process and the reliability of the numerical scheme used for its solution.
Some inquiries concerning the salt-springs and the way of salt-making at Nantwich in Cheshire; answer'd by the learned and observing William Jackson Dr. of Physick
Authors: Jackson William
Published: December 2006

1. What is the depth of the salt-springs? The depths are various, in some places not above 3. or 4. yards.
A solution, given by Mr. John Collins of a chorographical probleme, proposed by Richard Townley Esq. who doubtless hath solved the same otherwise
Authors: Collins John
Published: December 2006

Probleme. The distances of three objects in the same plain being given, as
A, B, C
; The angles made at a fourth place in the same plain as at
S
, are observed: The distances from the place of observation to the respective objects, are required.
An extract of Mr. Flamstead's letter written to the publisher from Derby Novemb. 16. 1672. Concerning the appulses, by him calculated for a. 1673. Of the Moon, and the other planets to fixed stars; together with an observation of the planet Mars, made by the same
Authors: Flamsteed John
Published: December 2006

I Herewith send you my Annual task, but slightly done. Indeed my frequent Journeys and domestick businesses have kept me so employ’d, that I have not had time to make such Calculations as I intended.
A description of certain stones figured like plants, and by some observing men esteemed to be plants petrified: Communicated to the Publisher by the same Mr. Lister, from York Novemb. 4th. 1673.
Authors: Lister Martin
Published: December 2006

Sir, In this paper I send you an Account of some of the Parts of certain Stones figured like Plants; which Agricola (5° Fessilium) calls Trochitœ, and the compound ones Entrochi; we in English, St. Cutberds beads.
Of the bogs, and loughs of Ireland by Mr. William King, Fellow of the Dublin Society, as it was presented to that Society.
Authors: King William
Published: December 2006

We live in an Island almost infamous for Bogs, and yet, I do not remember, that any one has attempted much concerning them; I beleive it may be of use to consider their Origine ; their conveniencys, and incovenienys ; and how they may be remedyed, or made usefull.
IV. Part of a letter from Sir R. B. S. R. S. to Dr. Lister, concerning the giants causway in the county of Atrim iu Ireland
Authors: Bulkeley Richard
Published: December 2006

Concerning the Giants Causey. Prolixity in a Philosophical Description I’m sure you'I pardon.
VI. An account of books. - I. Horti indici malabarioi. - Horti malabarici. Pars Octava - Horti Malabarici. Pars Nona. - II. A collection of curious travels and voyages, in two tomes. The first containing Dr. Leonhart Rauwolff's itinerary into the eastern countreys, &c. The second taking in many parts of Greece, Asia minor, Egypt, Arabia, &c. from the observations of monsieur Belon, Mr. Vernon, Dr. Greaves, and Dr. Smith, Dr. Huntingdon, Mr. Greaves, and others. To which are added three catalogu
Authors: Ray John
Published: December 2006

VI. An account of books. - I. Horti indici malabarioi. - Horti malabarici. Pars Octava - Horti Malabarici. Pars Nona. - II. A collection of curious travels and voyages, in two tomes. The first containing Dr. Leonhart Rauwolff's itinerary into the eastern countreys, &c. The second taking in many parts of Greece, Asia minor, Egypt, Arabia, &c. from the observations of monsieur Belon, Mr. Vernon, Dr. Greaves, and Dr. Smith, Dr. Huntingdon, Mr. Greaves, and others. To which are added three catalogues of plants growing in the levant. The Six first Tomes being abbreviated in the
Philosoph. Transact
. N. I45, and N. I98.
IV. An extract of a letter from Bernard Connor, M. D. to Sir Charles Walgrave, published in French at Paris: giving an account of an extraordinary humane sceleton, whose vertebræ of the Back, the ribs, and several bones down to the os sacrum, were all firmly united into one solid bones, without joynting or cartilage
Authors: Connor Bernard
Published: December 2006

Sir
, Having lately seen part of an Human
Sceleton
, all the Bones whereof were so united as to make but one continued Bone without Articulation, I thought it might be acceptable to the Curious to be presented with some Account thereof.
V. Part of a letter from Dr. Cyprianus to Dr. Sylvestre, giving an account of a child born with a large wound in the breast, supposed to proceed from the force of Imagination
Authors: Cyprianus Abraham
Published: December 2006

A Mongst some other Extraordinary Accidents which have offered themselves to me, since my coming some, there is one, I think, is worth your Knowing.
VII. Part of a letter of Mr. Anthony van Leeuwenhoeck, date Delft, Sept. 10. 1697. Concerning the Eggs of Snails, Roots of vegetables, teeth, and Young Oysters
Authors: Leeuwenhoek Antoni Van
Published: December 2006

Mr.
Friderick Walfert
from
overschie
, about Two Years ago brought me some little White Round Eggs, mixt with dry Earth, in which Earth the Eggs were found, and whose Axis was almost the Fifteenth Part of an Inch, together with a Desire to inquire what living Creature would come out of them.
II. A letter from Dr. Thomas Molyneux, to Dr. Martin Lister, Fellow of the College of Physicians, and of the Royal Society, in London: containing some additional observations on the Giants Causway in Ireland
Authors: Molyneux Thomas
Published: December 2006

Discoursing lately with our Friend, Sir
RIchard Bulkeley
, I find that for some while I have been under an Obligation by a Promise he made in my behalf, that I should send you a more true and particular Account of the
Giants Causway
II. An account of Mr Sam. Brown his fifth book of East India plants, with their names, vertues, description, &c. By James Petiver, Apothecary and Fellow of the Royal Society. To which ate added some animals sent him from those parts
Authors: Petiver James
Published: December 2006

These
Plants
were gathered at
Salawacka
and
Keraputta Kaudoo
, about 30
Miles
from
Madrass
, among
Stony
ground,
Hills
and
Mountains
, the colour of the
Earth
like
rust
of
Iron
: there are some
moist
places, but the
ground
is generally
dry
and
hard
.
I. Observations made in the Island of Ceilan, by Mr Strachan on the ways of catching fowl and deer, of serpents, of the ant bear and of cinamon
Authors: Strachan
Published: December 2006

The way they catch Water-Fowls is this, in Loughs and Waters which are not very deep, the Fowler puts an Earthen Pot upon his Head, in which Pot are bored holes, through Which he may See, then he Wadeth in the Water, nothing being Seen but the Pot which covereth his Head, and thus enters in the midst of all the Fowls, they thinking it to be a Block or the like driving, do not take notice of it, although it be upon their side; then he takes hold of one by his Foot, and draws him under Water, and wrings his Neck about; the rest of the Fowls not perceiving this sit still, then he goes to the next Fowl and does the same; and so going forth he catches as many as he pleases. Fowls, they thinking it to he a Block or the like driving, do not take notice of it, although it be upon their side; then he takes hold of one by his Foot, and draws him under Water, and wrings his Neck about; the rest of the Fowls not perceiving this fit Still, then he goes to the next Fowl and does the Same; and So going forth he catches as many as he pleases.
XIV. Particulars of the discovery of some very singular balls of stone, found in the works of the Huddersfield Canal
Authors: Outram Benjamin , Banks Joseph
Published: December 2006

The Huddersfield canal is to be carried through that chain of mountains which extends from the Peak of Derbyshire, in a northward direction through Yorkshire, &c. into and through a great part of Scotland, by pursuing from the navigation at Huddersfield a deep and narrow valley to Marsden, where it enters the north-eastern foot of one of these mountains, called Pule Hill, under which it is to be extended south-westwardly by a subterraneous cut or tunnel to the foot of Stand Edge Hill, or Brunn Clough, where it again excavates; and pursuing the bottom of a deep valley into Saddleworth, passes along the banks of the Tame to Ashton-under-Lyne, where it joins the canals that extend to Manchester, Stockport, Peak Forest, &c. In the latter end of the year 1794, the miners employed by the canal company began to perforate the north-eastern foot at Pule Hill; the strata they first cut through consisted of a greyish coloured shale, the beds or laminæ of which did not lie quite horizontal, but dipped or inclined a little to the westward. The strata continued regular till the workmen had perforated about 240 yards in length from the entrance of the hill, and were about eighty yards deep from the surface of the ground immediately over them, when they discovered on the north side of their work a
fault, throw
, or
break
of the strata, which was filled with shale, reared on the edge, and mixed with softer earth, and in some places with small lumps of coal. In continuing to pursue the direction of the tunnel, this fault occupied by degrees more of the space of the tunnel, for about forty yards in length, when it nearly occupied the whole tunnel, which is near four yards in width; and at about five feet from its southern margin it contained a rib of limestone, near four feet thick in the bottom, but not quite so thick at the top of the tunnel; and on each side this rib it contained balls of limestone promiscuously scattered, and of various sizes, from one ounce to upwards of 100lbs. weight.
Controlled study of brief personalized assessment‐feedback for drinkers interested in self‐help
Authors: Wild T. Cameron , Cunningham John A. , Roberts Amanda B.
Published: December 2006

Aims  Brief alcohol interventions typically have been directed to heavy‐drinking patients seeking primary health care and college students. This study examined the efficacy of mailing brief personalized assessment‐feedback to interested drinkers recruited from the general public. We hypothesized that problem drinkers would benefit more from the intervention than individuals who were not problem drinkers.

Design  A two‐arm, double‐blinded, community‐based randomized controlled trial with 6‐month follow‐up.

Setting and participants  A screening interview was administered to a stratified random sample of 10 014 Canadians 18 years of age and older (5621 women and 4393 men; M age = 43.3 years, SD = 15.99; response rate = 65.4%).

Intervention  Current drinkers interested in receiving alcohol self‐help materials (n = 1727) were assigned randomly to receive brief personalized assessment‐feedback on male and female population drinking norms by mail, or to a delayed‐treatment control group, and were contacted 6 months later (76% retention rate).

Measurements  Problem drinking status at baseline [using sex‐specific Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) cut scores], and frequency and quantity of alcohol use at follow‐up.

Findings  Analysis of covariance identified the hypothesized interaction of baseline problem drinking status and treatment condition (P < 0.01). Among problem drinkers identified at baseline the intervention caused a 10.1% reduction in per‐occasion binge drinking compared to controls, whereas there was no difference in binge drinking across conditions for non‐problem drinkers.

Conclusions  The continuum of care for alcohol problems can be broadened by providing brief interventions to interested drinkers in the general population.
Staff attitudes towards working with drug users: development of the Drug Problems Perceptions Questionnaire
Authors: Watson Hazel , Maclaren William , Kerr Susan
Published: December 2006

Aim To evaluate the psychometric properties of an adaptation of the Alcohol and Alcohol Problems Perceptions Questionnaire to measure the attitudes of staff to working with drug users (the DDPPQ).

Design Postal survey: a questionnaire was mailed to participants on two occasions.

Setting A large urban National Health Service (NHS) mental health service.

Participants A stratified random sample of medical staff, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists and nurses (n = 672) who work within generic mental health, adolescent psychiatry, forensic psychiatry and alcohol and drug services. Response rate at Time 1 was 56% and 68% at Time 2.

Measurements A structured demographic questionnaire; individual item and total scores for the DDPPQ administered on two occasions 4 weeks apart; data relating to the content validity of the instrument.

Findings A principal component analysis confirmed the DDPPQ's construct validity and participants confirmed its content validity. Following analysis of the instrument's test–retest reliability and its principal component structure it was reduced to a 20‐item scale. Its five subscales related to role adequacy, role support, job satisfaction, role‐specific self‐esteem and role legitimacy.

Conclusion The refined DDPPQ was shown to be a valid and reliable tool which can be used to measure attitudes of people in relation to working with drug users.
Do alcohol restrictions reduce suicide mortality?
Authors: Värnik Airi , Kõlves Kairi , Väli Marika , Tooding Liina‐Mai , Wasserman Danuta
Published: December 2006

Aim  Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of suicide was examined in relation to the marked falls in suicide rates and per capita alcohol consumption in Estonia during the major Soviet anti‐alcohol campaign from 1 June 1985.

Design and participants  In all, 5054 suicide cases (76% males, 24% females) were examined with respect to the official autopsy reports of the Estonian Bureau of Forensic Medicine (autopsy rates: 95% of males, 88% of females) before (1981–84), during (1986–88) and after (1989–92) the campaign. Cases were divided by gender and BAC level (0.5–1.49, 1.5–2.49 and > 2.5‰).

Findings  During the campaign, annual per capita alcohol consumption in Estonia fell from 10.9 to 6.6 l. Alcohol in blood was found in 47.9% before, 35.1% during and 40.9% after the campaign. During the intervention, BAC‐positive, i.e. alcohol‐positive, suicides decreased by 39.2% for males and 41.4% for females, with the largest fall occurring at the BAC 2.5‰ + level for both sexes. Changes in BAC‐negative suicides were modest. When the campaign ended suicide rates started to rise.

Conclusions  Investigation on an individual level showed that alcohol consumption was a common precursor to suicide and that rigorous alcohol restrictions were accompanied particularly by a decrease in BAC‐positive suicide mortality among both sexes. However, the ‘natural experiment’ does not, in terms of study design, demonstrate convincingly that the fall in the suicide rate was due specifically to the decrease in alcohol use as such.
Patterns of scavenger arrival at cheetah kills in Serengeti National Park Tanzania
Authors: Hunter J. S. , Durant S. M. , Caro T. M.
Published: December 2006

Scavenging by large‐bodied vertebrates is observed in many ecosystems but has rarely been quantified. Here we document the timing and order of scavenger arrival at 639 cheetah kills in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, focusing on ecological and heterospecific factors that may impact detectability of carcasses. We found that small‐, medium‐ and large‐sized vultures, jackals, spotted hyaenas and lions were more likely to be present at the carcasses of large‐bodied than small‐bodied prey. Lions and spotted hyaenas were less likely to locate kills in tall grass; medium‐sized vultures were likely to arrive before both large‐ and small‐sized vultures. Spotted hyaenas and vultures were likely to be present at kills simultaneously. Despite numerous anecdotal accounts, we did not find that hyaenas use alighting vultures as a means of locating food. Our findings show that environmental variables and other scavenger species strongly influence scavenger arrival at carcasses in this ecosystem.
Refinement of two female fertility QTL using alternative phenotypes in French Holstein dairy cattle
Authors: Guillaume F. , Gautier M. , Ben Jemaa S. , Fritz S. , Eggen A. , Boichard D. , Druet T.
Published: December 2006

Two quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting female fertility were mapped in French dairy cattle. Phenotypes were non‐return rates at 28, 56, 90 and 282 days after insemination. On chromosome 3, a QTL was significant at 1% for non‐return rate at 90 days, suggesting that it affects early fertility events. An analysis of SLC35A3, which causes complex vertebral malformation, excluded this gene from the QTL interval. On chromosome 7, a QTL was almost significant (P = 0.05) for non‐return rate at 282 days. This QTL was associated with abortion and stillbirth problems. Use of appropriate phenotypes appeared important for fine‐mapping QTL associated with fertility.
Transformation of follicular lymphoma to diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma proceeds by distinct oncogenic mechanisms
Authors: Davies Andrew J. , Rosenwald Andreas , Wright George , Lee Abigail , Last Kim W. , Weisenburger Dennis D. , Chan Wing C. , Delabie Jan , Braziel Rita M. , Campo Elias , Gascoyne Randy D. , Jaffe Elaine S. , Konrad Muller‐Hermelink H. , Ott German , Calaminici Maria , Norton Andrew J. , Goff Lindsey K. , Fitzgibbon Jude , Staudt Louis M. , Andrew Lister T.
Published: December 2006

This study was undertaken to further elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying the frequent event of transformation of follicular lymphoma (FL) to diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (t‐FL). The gene expression profiles of 20 paired lymph node biopsies, derived from the same patient pre‐ and post‐transformation, were analysed using the Lymphochip cDNA microarray. TP53 mutation analysis was performed and copy number alterations at the c‐REL and CDNK2A examined. Immunohistochemistry was performed on an independent panel of paired transformation paraffin‐embedded samples. Transformed follicular lymphoma was predominantly of the germinal centre B‐like phenotype both at the mRNA and protein level. Despite this homogeneity, transformation proceeded by at least two pathways. One mechanism was characterised by high proliferation, as assessed by the co‐ordinately expressed genes of the proliferation signature. This group was associated with the presence of recurrent oncogenic abnormalities. In the remaining cases, proliferation was not increased and transformation proceeded by alternative routes as yet undetermined. Genes involved in cellular proliferation prevailed amongst those that were significantly increased upon transformation and T cell and follicular dendritic‐associated genes predominated amongst those that decreased. t‐FL is a germinal centre B (GCB)‐like malignancy that evolves by two pathways, one that is similar in proliferation rate to the antecedent FL and the other that has a higher proliferation rate and is characterised by the presence of recognised oncogenic abnormalities.
BIRB 796 enhances cytotoxicity triggered by bortezomib, heat shock protein (Hsp) 90 inhibitor, and dexamethasone via inhibition of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase/Hsp27 pathway in multiple myeloma cell lines and inhibits paracrine tumour growth
Authors: Yasui Hiroshi , Hideshima Teru , Ikeda Hiroshi , Jin Janice , Ocio Enrique M. , Kiziltepe Tanyel , Okawa Yutaka , Vallet Sonia , Podar Klaus , Ishitsuka Kenji , Richardson Paul G. , Pargellis Chris , Moss Neil , Raje Noopur , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: December 2006

We have previously shown that heat shock protein (Hsp) 27 or its upstream activator p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) confers resistance to bortezomib and dexamethasone (Dex) in multiple myeloma (MM) cells. This study examined anti‐MM activity of a novel p38 MAPK inhibitor, BIRB 796, alone and in combination with conventional and novel therapeutic agents. BIRB 796 blocked baseline and bortezomib‐triggered upregulation of p38 MAPK and Hsp27 phosphorylation, thereby enhancing cytotoxicity and caspase activation. The Hsp90 inhibitor 17‐allylamino‐17‐demethoxy‐geldanamycin (17‐AAG) upregulated protein expression and phosphorylation of Hsp27; conversely, BIRB 796 inhibited this phosphorylation and enhanced 17‐AAG‐induced cytotoxicity. Importantly, BIRB 796 inhibited Hsp27 phosphorylation induced by 17‐AAG plus bortezomib, thereby enhancing cytotoxicity. In bone marrow stromal cells (BMSC), BIRB 796 inhibited phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and secretion of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and vascular endothelial growth factor triggered by either tumour necrosis factor‐α or tumour growth factor‐β1. BIRB 796 also inhibited IL‐6 secretion induced in BMSCs by adherence to MM cells, thereby inhibiting tumour cell proliferation. These studies therefore suggest that BIRB 796 overcomes drug‐resistance in the BM microenvironment, providing the framework for clinical trials of a p38 MAPK inhibitor, alone and in combination with bortezomib, Hsp90 inhibitor, or Dex, to improve patient outcome in MM.
Activated platelet‐derived microparticles in thalassaemia
Authors: Pattanapanyasat Kovit , Gonwong Siriphan , Chaichompoo Porntip , Noulsri Egarit , Lerdwana Surada , Sukapirom Kasama , Siritanaratkul Noppadol , Fucharoen Suthat
Published: December 2006

Thromboembolic complications have been documented in thalassaemia patients. The aggregability of abnormal red blood cells and the high level of membrane‐derived microparticles (MPs) stemming from blood cells are thought to be responsible for the associated thrombotic risk. We investigated the number of MPs, their cellular origin and their procoagulant properties in β‐thalassaemia. Fresh whole blood was simultaneously stained for annexin V, cellular antigens and the known density beads. The procoagulant properties of these phosphatidylserine (PS)‐bearing MPs were also measured by assessing the platelet factor‐3‐like activity in the blood. Flow cytometric results showed that splenectomised β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients had significantly higher levels of PS‐bearing MPs than non‐splenectomised β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients and normal individuals (P < 0·0001). There was a good correlation between PS‐bearing MPs and PS‐bearing platelets, reflecting the existence of chronic platelet activation in β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients (rs = 0·511, P < 0·001). The cellular origin of PS‐bearing MPs showed mostly activated‐platelet origin with adhesion (CD41a/CD62P/CD36). Moreover, the platelet procoagulant activity was higher in splenectomised β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients when compared with non‐splenectomised (P < 0·05) and normal individuals (P < 0·01), and the amount correlated with PS‐bearing MPs (rs = 0·560, P < 0·001). These findings suggest that MPs originate from activated platelets with a potential to aggravate thrombotic events when the numbers are excessive, as is commonly seen in splenectomised β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients.
The C‐terminus of α2‐antiplasmin interacts with endothelial cells
Authors: Thomas L. , Moore N. R. , Miller S. , Booth N. A.
Published: December 2006

The serpin, α2‐antiplasmin (α2AP), has an extended C‐terminus relative to other inhibitors. This 51‐residue region contains an RGD sequence; such sequences constitute a key recognition sequence for cell adhesion, mediated through integrins. In the present study, this sequence was expressed in Escherichia coli and its binding to endothelial cells and whether binding depends on the RGD sequence was investigated. Binding to the surface of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC‐C) was observed by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Binding studies on immobilised cells showed specific and RGD‐dependent binding of the peptides to HUVEC‐C. The binding of the wild‐type peptide to the HUVEC‐C was significantly higher than that of a mutant peptide, in which RGD was replaced by SAA (P < 0·05, n = 4). Similarly, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid decreased the binding of the wild‐type peptide (P < 0·05, n = 4). The binding was competed out by full‐length α2AP, fibronectin and anti‐α5β1. This is the first evidence of binding of the C‐terminus of α2AP to endothelial cells via its RGD sequence, with most but not all of the binding being integrin‐mediated. We speculate that this interaction with α2AP may potentially play a role in the control of cellular fibrinolysis by regulating local plasmin activity on cell surfaces.
How to bring geoscience to the public—a UK ‘Science week’ experience
Authors: King Chris
Published: December 2006

In the UK, the National Science week aims to bring exciting science to the public. As explained on the British Association (BA) website: ‘National Science Week aims to celebrate science and its importance to our lives, giving people from everywhere in the UK the chance to participate in science activities and experiments and to engage in science discussions in their local area. … We encourage individuals and organisations to take part …’ The Prime Minister has said: ‘National Science Week is so important. It encourages people to engage with science through informative and fun events, and provides scientists with an opportunity to talk to people about their research and gain an understanding of the public's views.’ Science Week provides a wonderful opportunity for geoscientists to bring their science to the public in ways that will inform and inspire. It takes a day, some preparation, and a willingness to ‘be in the front line’ of interaction with people of all ages. It needs an engaging jargon‐free approach and activities that will ‘draw in the punters’ and provide them with experiences that they won't easily forget. This article shows ways in which it can be delivered.
Juvenile hormone and colony conditions differentially influence cytochrome P450 gene expression in the termite Reticulitermes flavipes*
Authors: Zhou X. , Song C. , Grzymala T. L. , Oi F. M. , Scharf M. E.
Published: December 2006

In lower termites, the worker caste is a totipotent immature stage that is capable of differentiating into other adult caste phenotypes. We investigated the diversity of family 4 cytochrome P450 (CYP4) genes in Reticulitermes flavipes workers, with the specific goal of identifying P450s potentially involved in regulating caste differentiation. Seven novel CYP4 genes were identified. Quantitative real‐time PCR revealed the tissue distribution of expression for the seven CYP4s, as well as temporal expression changes in workers in association with a release from colony influences and during juvenile hormone (JH)‐induced soldier caste differentiation. Several fat‐body‐related CYP4 genes were differentially expressed after JH treatment. Still other genes changed expression in association with removal from colony influences, suggesting that primer pheromones and/or other colony influences impact their expression. These findings add to a growing database of candidate termite caste‐regulatory genes, and provide explicit evidence that colony factors influence termite gene expression.
Specific interactions among odorant‐binding proteins of the African malaria vector Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Andronopoulou E. , Labropoulou V. , Douris V. , Woods D. F. , Biessmann H. , Iatrou K.
Published: December 2006

In this report we present results from a comprehensive study undertaken toward the identification of proteins interacting with odourant‐binding proteins (OBPs) of the African malaria vector Anopheles gambiae with a focus on the interactions among different OBPs. From an initial screen for proteins that interact with a member of the Plus‐C group of OBPs, OBP48, which is primarily expressed in female antennae and downregulated after a blood meal, a number of interacting proteins were identified, which included five classic OBPs and OBP48 itself. The interacting OBPs as well as a number of other classic and Plus‐C group OBPs that were not identified in the initial screen, were expressed in lepidopteran cells and subsequently examined for in vitro interactions in the absence of exogenously added ligands. Co‐immunoprecipitation and chemical cross‐linking studies suggest that OBP48 is capable of homodimerizing, heterodimerizing and forming higher order complexes with those examined examples of classical OBPs identified in the initial screen but not with other classical or Plus‐C group OBPs that failed to appear in the screen. The latter OBPs are, however, also capable of forming homodimers in vitro and, at least in the case of two examined classic OBPs, heterodimers as well. These results suggest a previously unsuspected potential of nonrandom combinatorial complexity that may be crucial for odour discrimination by the mosquito.
cDNA cloning, heat shock regulation and developmental expression of the hsp83 gene in the Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata
Authors: Theodoraki M. A. , Mintzas A. C.
Published: December 2006

This report presents the cDNA cloning, heat shock regulation and developmental expression of the hsp90 gene homologue of the Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata (medfly). The isolated cDNA contained the coding region, the 3′UTR and most of the 5′UTR of the medfly hsp90 homologue, which was named Cchsp83. The deduced CcHSP83 polypeptide contained all the highly conserved amino acid segments that characterize the cytosolic members of the HSP90 family. Genomic analysis showed that the Cchsp83 gene is unique and was mapped at the 94C division of the sixth polytene chromosome. The size of the Cchsp83 mRNA was found to be approximately 2.7 kb. The predicted molecular mass of the CcHSP83 protein was 81.4 kDa, while the apparent molecular weight estimated by SDS‐PAGE was approximately 90 kDa. Phylogenetic analysis based on 14 insect HSP90 amino acid sequences was consistent with the known phylogeny at low taxonomic level. The Cchsp83 gene is constitutively expressed in all stages of medfly development and is induced from a low level to several‐fold by heat, depending on the developmental stage. Heat shock induction begins at 30 °C, reaching a maximum between 35 and 41 °C. Cchsp83 RNA expression is highly regulated during embryonic development; however, the temporal fluctuations in RNA levels during embryogenesis were not followed by similar fluctuations in the levels of the protein.
Neuroendocrinological Mechanisms of Actions of Antidepressant Drugs
Authors: Schüle C.
Published: December 2006

Noradrenaline or serotonin (5‐HT) reuptake‐inhibiting antidepressants such as reboxetine or citalopram acutely stimulate cortisol and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) secretion in healthy volunteers, whereas mirtazapine acutely inhibits the ACTH and cortisol release, probably due to its antagonism at central 5‐HT2 and/or H1 receptors. These differential effects of antidepressants on cortisol and ACTH secretion in healthy subjects after single administration are also reflected by their different time course in the down‐regulation of hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenocortical (HPA) axis hyperactivity in depressed patients as assessed by serial dexamethasone (DEX)/corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH) tests: Reuptake‐inhibiting antidepressants such as reboxetine gradually normalise HPA axis hyperactivity in depressed patients during several weeks of treatment via up‐regulation of mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptor function and by step‐by‐step restoration of the disturbed feedback control. By contrast, mirtazapine markedly reduces HPA axis activity in depressed patients within 1 week, but there is a partial re‐enhancement of HPA hormone secretion after several weeks of therapy. In all studies performed to date, the short‐term effects of daily treatment with antidepressants on the DEX/CRH test results are comparable in responders and nonresponders. Moreover, a reduction in HPA axis activity is not necessarily followed by a favourable clinical response and some depressed patients keep on showing nonsuppression in the DEX/CRH test despite clinical improvement. Therefore, the importance of HPA axis dysregulation for the short‐term efficacy of antidepressants continues to be a matter of debate. However, there are convincing data suggesting that persisting nonsuppression in the DEX/CRH test despite clinical remission predicts an enhanced risk for relapse of depressive symptomatology with respect to the medium‐ and long‐term outcome.
Effects of In Vivo and In Vitro Administration of Ghrelin, Leptin and Neuropeptide Mediators on Pulsatile Gonadotrophin‐Releasing Hormone Secretion from Male Rat Hypothalamus Before and After Puberty
Authors: Lebrethon M. C. , Aganina A. , Fournier M. , Gérard A. , Parent A. S. , Bourguignon J. P.
Published: December 2006

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of leptin and ghrelin on pulsatile pulsatile gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion in vitro with emphasis on neuropeptide mediators and changes between prepuberty (15 days) and sexual maturity (50 days) in the male rat. When hypothalamic explants were studied 90 min after an intraperitoneal injection of leptin, ghrelin or agouti‐related protein (AgRP) at 15 days, the GnRH interpulse interval (IPI) was significantly increased by ghrelin and AgRP and decreased by leptin. At 50 days, an increase in GnRH IPI was also caused by ghrelin and AgRP. When the peptides were directly incubated with the explants, the effects of leptin and AgRP in vitro were consistent with those seen after in vivo administration. By contrast, ghrelin resulted in a reduction of GnRH IPI and this was observed at 15 days only. To delineate the neuropeptide mediators of leptin and the effects of ghrelin in the hypothalamus, various hypothalamic neuropeptides and antagonists were used in vitro. At 15 days, the GnRH IPI was significantly decreased after incubation with cocaine and amphetamine‐regulated transcript (CART), α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone, corticotrophin‐releasing factor (CRF) and neuropeptide Y (NPY). The reduction of GnRH IPI caused by leptin was partially prevented by either an anti‐CART antiserum or SHU 9119, a melanocortin MC3/MC4 receptor antagonist or a CRF receptor antagonist. The NPY‐Y5 receptor antagonist did not influence the effects of leptin whereas that antagonist totally prevented the decrease in GnRH IPI caused by ghrelin. The ghrelin‐induced reduction of GnRH IPI was partially prevented by SHU 9119. When used alone, SHU 9119 or a CRF‐receptor antagonist resulted in increased GnRH IPI at 50 days while they had no effects at 15 days. The NPY‐Y5 receptor antagonist resulted in increased GnRH IPI at 15 and 50 days. In conclusion, leptin and ghrelin show opposing effects on pulsatile GnRH secretion after administration in vivo whereas they both have stimulatory effects in vitro. Such effects involve consistently the anorectic peptides CART and CRF for leptin that are mainly active at 15 days. The melanocortigenic system appears to mediate the effects of both leptin and ghrelin. The effects of ghrelin also involve NPY receptors and operate effectively before and at sexual maturity.
Gliding motility and polarized slime secretion
Authors: Yu Rosa , Kaiser Dale
Published: December 2006

Myxococcus leaves a trail of slime on agar as it moves. A filament of slime can be seen attached to the end of a cell, but it is seen only at one end at any particular moment. To identify genes essential for A motility, transposon insertion mutations with defective A motility were studied. Fifteen of the 33 mutants had totally lost A motility. All these mutant cells had filaments of slime emerging from both ends, indicating that bipolar secretion prevents A motility. The remaining 18 A motility mutants, also produced by gene knockout, secreted slime only from one pole, but they swarmed at a lower rate than A+ and are called ‘partial’ gliding mutants, or pgl. For each pgl mutant, the reduction in swarm expansion rate was directly proportional to the reduction in the coefficient of elasticotaxis. The pgl mutants have a normal reversal frequency and normal gliding speed when they move. But their probability of movement per unit time is lower than pgl+ cells. Many of the pgl mutants are produced by transposon insertions in glycosyltransferase genes. It is proposed that these glycosyltransferases carry out the synthesis of a repeat unit polysaccharide that constitutes the slime.
Dual role of the MgtC virulence factor in host and non‐host environments
Authors: Rang Cécile , Alix Eric , Felix Christine , Heitz Annie , Tasse Lena , Blanc‐Potard Anne‐Béatrice
Published: December 2006

MgtC is required for intramacrophage replication of intracellular pathogens and growth in low Mg2+ medium. A link between these two phenotypes has been proposed due to putative Mg2+ deprivation inside phagosome. MgtC is part of a family of proteins that share a conserved N‐terminal transmembrane domain and a variable C‐terminal domain. A combination of predictive and experimental approaches indicates that the Salmonella MgtC C‐terminal domain is cytoplasmic, adopts a fold also found in metal transporters and RNA interacting domain, and does not bind Mg2+. MgtC homologues from diverse γ‐proteobacteria, including the extracellular pathogens Yersinia pestis, Photorhabdus luminescens and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, have been expressed in a SalmonellaΔmgtC strain. The Y. pestis MgtC fully replaced the Salmonella MgtC whereas P. luminescens or P. aeruginosa MgtC complemented only in low Mg2+ medium, thus dissociating for the first time the two MgtC‐related phenotypes. In addition, we identified single amino acids changes that prevent or promote MgtC role in macrophages without affecting MgtC role in low Mg2+ culture. A SalmonellaΔmgtC strain showed elongated and autoaggregated bacteria in low Mg2+ medium but not in macrophages. Taken together our results suggest that MgtC has a dual role when bacteria localize in macrophages or low Mg2+ environment.
Loss of the atypical inflammatory response in juvenile and aged rats
Authors: Campbell S. J. , Carare‐Nnadi R. O. , Losey P. H. , Anthony D. C.
Published: December 2006

Epidemiological evidence indicates that the severity of many human neuropathologies is often age‐related, and this also appears true in rodent models of human disease. In this study, we examined the inflammatory response within the brain to the archetypal pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β) or tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α). We assessed how the cerebral vasculature changes with age and whether any structural alterations are associated with altered cytokine sensitivities. Six hours after equivalent microinjections of IL‐1β or TNF‐α, 3‐week‐old juvenile and 18‐month‐old aged rats displayed increased leucocyte recruitment, blood–brain barrier (BBB) breakdown, and a loss of specificity in the populations of leucocytes recruited when compared with the restricted profile observed in 2‐month‐old young adult rat brain. The expression of the tight junction protein claudin‐1 was absent in those vessels where neutrophils were being actively recruited. To determine whether changes in the structure of the BBB might be responsible for the increased susceptibility observed at either end of the age spectrum, we compared the number of claudin‐1 positive vessels in the unchallenged brain to the total number of vessels. Virtually all vessels in the young adult brain express claudin‐1, but a significant proportion of vessels are claudin‐1 negative in the juvenile rat brain. In the aged rat brain, the overall number of vessels is markedly reduced, but the majority of these still appear to be claudin‐1 positive. The pattern of claudin‐1 expression together with the change in vessel density indicates that the properties of the BBB change with age, and, despite similarities, the underlying cause of the heightened inflammatory response in the juvenile and in the aged brain is likely to differ. Indeed, the spatial characteristics of the cytokine‐induced BBB breakdown are different at either end of the age spectrum. These studies identify two periods within the lifespan of a rat where susceptibility to pro‐inflammatory mediators is dramatically increased.
Complement and C4 Null Alleles in Severe Chronic Adult Periodontitis
Authors: Seppänen M. , Lokki M.‐L. , Notkola I.‐L. , Mattila K. , Valtonen V. , Nieminen A. , Vesanen M. , Asikainen S. , Meri S.
Published: December 2006

Severe forms of chronic periodontitis affect up to 10% of adults. Tumour necrosis factor and lymphotoxin‐α genes in the major histocompatibility complex are associated with severe periodontitis. Complement factor C4 is a nearby, polymorphic, functionally relevant gene region. Although associated with chronic mucosal infections, C4 deficiencies have not been assessed in adult periodontitis patients. We tested whether complement levels are systemically altered and C4 deficiencies associated with severe chronic periodontitis. In a case–control study, we analysed levels of plasma C3, and C4, serum classical pathway haemolytic activity, C4 allotypes and C4 gene numbers in 37 patients with severe chronic periodontitis and in 150 voluntary controls. Plasma levels of C3 were higher, and classical pathway haemolytic activity was lower in patients than in controls. Partial C4 gene deficiencies were more frequent in patients than in controls (odds ratio 2.4, 95% confidence interval 1.1–5.5, P = 0.032). Changes in complement levels may reflect chronic, recurring inflammation. C4 gene deficiencies are associated with predisposition to chronic periodontitis.