bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
S‐Matrix and Yang‐Feldman Relations
Authors: Kaschluhn F.
Published: July 2007

It is shown that a reduction of S‐matrix elements based on the use of interacting fields determines the behaviour on mass shell non‐uniquely. The standard expressions which fulfil the unitarity condition automatically appear so only as a special choice. The reduction formulae considered in momentum space turn out to be ill‐defined strictly on mass shell and need a further prescription. However, if the latter proceeds via off‐mass‐shell extrapolations a consistent scheme seems only to be achieveable if besides the current operator corresponding to a first reduction free fields are employed. Thus the use of Yang‐Feldman relations leads to a paradox in the sense that from a zero contribution on mass shell arbitrary restrictions for the non‐mass‐shell behaviour can be derived if space‐time reflected expressions are taken into account. The fact that in particular a constant factor remains undetermined in the unitarity condition is briefly discussed from the point of view of Lagrangian field theory.
Deformationstheorie des Ladungsträgerspektrums im Wismut
Authors: Jung T. , Braune W.
Published: July 2007

Es wird eine Methode angegeben, mit der die Parameter des Dispersionsgesetzes der Ladungsträger von ABRIKOSOV und FAL'KOVSKIJ[12] auf im wesentlichen analytischem Wege aus Shubnikov‐de‐Haas‐Daten bestimmt werden können. Die so gewonnenen Parametersätze ergeben erstmalig eine gute Übereinstimmung init Zyklotronresonanz‐ und Quantenoszillations‐Experimenten für das Abrikosov‐Fal'kovskij‐Modell. Es wird gezeigt, daß die Deformationstheorie bereits in der Form, wie sie in [22] vorliegt, wesentliche Vorteile gegenüber den anderen Methoden der Berechnung des Spektrums der Ladungsträger hat.
Generating Functionals in Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics
Authors: Kalashnikov V. P. , Auslender M. I.
Published: July 2007

The main ideas and methods of calculations within the framework of the generating functional technique are considered in a systematical way. The nonequilibrium generating functionals are defined as functional mappings of the nonequilibrium statistical operator and so appear to be dependent on a certain set of macroscopic variables describing the nonequilibrium state of the system. The boundary conditions and the differential equation of motion for the generating functionals are considered which result in an explicit expression for the nonequilibrium generating functionals in terms of the so‐called coarse‐grained generating functional being the functional mapping of the quasiequilibrium statistical operator. Various types of integral equations are derived for the generating functionals which are convenient to develop the perturbation theories with respect to either small interaction or small density of particles. The master equation for the coarse‐grained generating functionals is obtained and its connection with the generalized kinetic equations for a set of macrovariables is shown. The derivation of the generalized kinetic equations for some physical systems (classical and quantum systems of interacting particles, the Kondo system) is treated in detail, with due regard for the polarization effects as well as the energy and momentum exchange between the colliding particles and the surrounding media.
The Non‐Linear Geometric Optics of the Localized Wave Fields
Authors: Shvartsburg A. B.
Published: July 2007

The new approach to the self‐action theory of intensive localized pulses, based on the hydrodynamical analogy in the non‐linear geometrical optics, is proposed. The complex of phenomena of amplitude‐phase non‐stationary evolution of the intensive localized electromagnetic wave pulses in the dispersive medium is analysed in the framework of such approach. The wide classes of exact analytical solutions of the non‐linear self‐action equations, connected with such pulses, are constructed. The simple form of these solutions, represented with the well‐known eigen‐functions of the Laplace equation in special variables, permits to divide the pulse non‐linear deformation qualitatively different effects. These solutions predict the large‐scale pulse self‐stratification and the origin of the quick intensity increase area during the non‐linear evolution of the initially smooth distribution of the wave. The characteristic points of such evolution are represented by the singularities in the exact solutions of the non‐linear geometrical optics. All results, describing the dynamics of the non‐linear amplitude‐phase re‐building of the pulse, are represented in the simple algebraic form.
Field Operator for Unstable Particle and Complex Mass Description in Local QFT
Authors: Lukierski J.
Published: July 2007

We consider the equations describing the local covariant unstable particle field operator as the functional of stable asymptotic decay products. In such a framework, we present two generalizations of the Yang‐Feldman equation, which can be used for the description of unstable particles. In order to introduce a complex mass parameter, we discuss the generalizations of mass renormalization procedure. Also we consider briefly the description using fields with continuous spectrum of asymptotic masses.
Interaction of Photons with Electrons in Dielectric Media
Authors: Novak Miroslav M.
Published: July 2007

The question of the field energy‐momentum tensor in a medium is not new and many workers, in the past, attempted to find the answer to it. Nevertheless, there was no general agreement about the form of such a tensor, thus resulting in a confusion involving the very fundaments of physics. Although the present work uses well established theories, the underlying philosophy is completely novel. Investigations are mainly centered around the collisionless plasma as, in that state, development of the argument is most transparent.

On the basis of a simple theoretical reasoning, it is, first of all, postulated that the momentum of the photon in a plasma is given by the Minkowski expression. This hypothesis becomes more viable as it directly leads to the accepted form for the field energy density. Furthermore, utilizing the concepts of stimulated and spontaneous emission and absorption, it is confirmed that, in the equilibrium (between radiation and plasma), the transferred momentum has the value given by the Minkowski theory. However, as will be seen, this result is valid only in the region of high frequencies. Put otherwise, when conditions are such that the laws of geometrical optics apply, the momentum of the photon is, to a good approximation, given by the Minkowski theory.

In order to arrive at a more general result, valid in the domain of wave optics, a similarity between the dispersion relation (describing the wave propagation through a medium) and the relativistic energy‐momentum of a particle moving through vacuum, is explored. Accepting the equivalence of these two relations implies that some of the properties of radiation in a medium, can also be described by a massive particle travelling through empty space. In other words, the task of analysing the behaviour of electromagnetic waves in a medium, can be replaced by the analysis of the free neutral vector meson field. Adoption of this equivalence results in the field energy‐momentum tensor being symmetrical.

A thorough study of the field theory then provides the basis for interpreting the Abraham tensor as the sum of the “orbital” and “spin” tensors. The former is directly connected with the energy transport, whereas the latter one is not. Realising that the magnitude of the spin term increases towards the lower end of the frequency spectrum provides the resolution of the Abraham‐Minkowski dilemma: the energy‐momentum tensor, corresponding to the electromagnetic wave in a medium, is that given by Abraham, while the one of Minkowski is only an approximation valid at high frequencies.

Although this conclusion stems from studies involving collisionless isotropic plasma, it is in excellent agreement with the experimental data.
Conditional Probability and the Axiomatic Structure of Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Guz W.
Published: July 2007

The paper, summarizing the results of recent papers of the author, is devoted to a detailed analysis of postulates of nonrelativistic quantum theory appearing within two classical axiomatic frameworks the “quantum logic” and the “algebraic approach” respectively, which are presently the two main alternatives for quantum axiomatics.

The first part of the paper concerns the structure of two important sets, the set of questions (propositional logic) and the set of pure states. It is shown how the quantum logic axiomatic scheme can be modified and improved in order to overcome the well known troubles connected with the lack of satisfactory physical justification for some postulates of this approach. In particular, an axiom system is developed, related closely to the quantum logic axiomatic scheme, in which the questions of the complete lattice structure, the atomisticity, and the validity of the covering law in the propositional logic do not appear so problematic. The particular attention is directed to the covering law, which is here obtained as a consequence of physically clear properties of the experimental procedures (“filters”) associated with the quantum‐mechanical propositions. In Section 1.5 we formulate an axiom system for quantum mechanics based exclusively on the concepts of pure state, transition probability, and pure filter.

In the second part of the paper the axiomatic scheme presented in Part 1 is developed with the aim to analyse the algebraic structure of some subspaces of the set of simple observables. The quantum logic axiomatic framework is here shown closely connected with the Jordan‐Banach algebraic scheme.

In the third part of the paper, similarly as it was done in Parts 1 and 2, the correspondence between the propositions and the experimental (measuring) procedures verifying these propositions is put as the basic assumption of the axiomatization of quantum mechanics. As a consequence of this assumption, there is established the structure of a real Jordan‐Banach algebra in the set Ob of the bounded observables associated with a physical system, so that we can apply the GNS representation theorem proved recently for such algebras by Alfsen et al. (1978) to obtain the Hilbert space (or, to be more precise, the C*‐algebraic) representation for Ob.
Multidimensional Unified Theories
Authors: Orzalesi Claudio A.
Published: July 2007

An extended spacetime, M4+N, is a Riemannian (4 + N)‐dimensional manifold which admits an N‐parameter group G of (spacelike) isometries and is such that ordinary spacetime M4 is the space M4+N/G of the equivalence classes under G‐transformations of M4+N. A multidimensional unified theory (MUT) is a dynamical theory of the metric tensor on M4+N, the metric being determined from the Einstein‐Hilbert action principle: in absence of matter, the Lagrangian is (essentially) the total curvature scalar of M4+N. A MUT is an extension of the Cho‐Freund generalization of Jordan's five‐dimensional theory. A MUT can be faithfully translated in four‐dimensional language: as a theory on M4, a MUT is a gauge field theory with gauge group G. A unifying aspect of MUT's is that all fields occur as elements of the metric tensor on M4+N. When the isometry generators are subjected to strongest constraints, a MUT becomes the De Witt‐Trautman generalization of Kaluza's five‐dimensional theory; in four‐dimensional language, this is the theory of Yang‐Mills gauge fields coupled to gravity. With weaker constraints, a MUT appears to be more natural than a Yang‐Mills theory as a physical realization of the gauge principle for an exact symmetry of gauged confined color. Such weakly‐constrained MUT leads to bag‐type models without the need for ad hoc surgery on the basic. Lagrangian. The present paper provides a detailed introduction to the formalism of multidimensional unified gauge field theory.
Outline of a Nonlinear, Relativistic Quantum Mechanics of Extended Particles
Authors: Mielke Eckehard W.
Published: July 2007

A quantum theory of intrinsically extended particles similar to de Broglie's Theory of the Double Solution is proposed. A rational notion of the particle's extension is enthroned by realizing its internal structure via soliton‐type solutions of nonlinear, relativistic wave equations. These droplet‐type waves have a quasi‐objective character except for certain boundary conditions which may be subject to stochastic fluctuations. More precisely, this assumption amounts to a probabilistic description of the center of a soliton such that it would follow the conventional quantum‐mechanical formalism in the limit of zero particle radius. At short interaction distances, however, a promising nonlinear and nonlocal theory emerges. This model is not only capable of achieving a conceptually satisfying synthesis of the particle‐wave dualism, but may also lead to a rational resolution of epistemological problems in the quantum‐theoretical measurement process. Within experimental errors the results for, e.g., the hydrogen atom can be reproduced by appropriately specifying the nature of the nonlinear self‐interaction. It is speculated that field theoretical issues raised by such notions as identical particles, field quantization and renormalization are already incorporated or resolved by this nonlocal theory, at least in principle.
Higher Effective Actions for Bose Systems
Authors: Kleinert H.
Published: July 2007

We study the generalization of the usual effective action Γ[ϕ] of Bose systems to an explicit functional Γ[ϕ, G, α2, α4] of field ϕ, Green's function G, and three‐ and four‐point vertex functions α3, α4. The equations of motion following by extremization with respect to ϕ, G, α3, α4 provide for non‐linear integral equations whose solution can account for a wide variety of non‐perturbative effects: Condensation of particles, pairs, and three and four‐particle clusters. There can be spontaneous generation of mass as well as of interaction.
How failure prediction methodology affects electronic equipment design
Authors: Leonard Charles T. , Pecht Michael
Published: July 2007

Electronic equipment designs embody measures and techniques to enhance reliability. Often, concepts of designing for failure avoidance are inferred from various failure prediction methodologies (FPM) such as MIL‐HDBK‐217,1 BellCore2 etc. However, these FPM models do not accurately predict actual failures of completed assemblies, for they usually emphasize component parts as the dominant cause of problems, and the models cannot be kept up to date. Furthermore, the true causes of failure are not described, and thus they cannot be accomodated by design. As such, use of FPM as a source of guidance for reliability‐enhancing activities in producing reliable products may have less effectiveness than originally intended. Some FPM encouraged features can impose heavy costs, complexities and other penalties. By adopting solutions to problems that are inaccurately defined, true problems may be unaddressed.
A new stochastic model for crack propagation
Authors: Schäbe Hendrik
Published: July 2007

In the following paper we present a new model for crack propagation. The new model is able to involve sudden growth of crack length (jumps) and is a generalization of the well‐known Paris–Erdogen law. We obtain the lifetime distribution and the residual lifetime distributions.
Reliability and degradation of 980 NM InGaAs/GaAs strained quantum well lasers
Authors: Fukuda M. , Okayasu M. , Takeshita T. , Wada M.
Published: July 2007

Degradation behaviours of 980 nm InGaAs/GaAs strained quantum well (QW) lasers are clarified and compared with normal AlGaAdGaAs, InGaAsP/InP and GaAs/GaAs QW lasers. Through various ageing tests, it is confirmed that 980 nm InGaAs/GaAs strained QW lasers are applicable to optical fibre transmission systems where the components are required to be highly reliable.
Simple adjustments to improve control limits on attribute charts
Authors: Winterbottom Alan
Published: July 2007

Many SPC software packages determine control chart limits for attribute data using normal approximations. For some sample sizes and/or process parameter values these approximations are far from adequate, mainly due to skewness in the exact distribution. Significant improvements can be made to the probabilistic accuracy of control limits by simple adjustments derived from Cornish and Fisher expansions for percentage points. The adjustments are preferable to normalizing transformations in that the original scale of the data is retained and most SPC packages allow self‐determined control limits to be inserted. The overall objective is to bring operational meaning and practice for attribute charts more into line with charts for variables.
Field components reliability analysis for french telecommunications equipment
Authors: Boulaire J. Y. , Bauduin B. , Lelievre A.
Published: July 2007

The reliability of components in the equipment of France Telecom has been observed for many years. The computerized database SADE (field failure analysis system) will be described. Some examples of failure analysis on field returns of integrated circuits and optoelectronic devices will be given. Investigations permit the reliability prediction models for new components to be improved.
Off‐line quality control for V‐process castings
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Gaindhar J. L.
Published: July 2007

In the present work Taguchi's approach has been applied to the V‐process castings of Al‐11 per cent Si alloy to acertain the most influential control factors which will provide better and consistent surface finish to the castings regardless of the noise factors present.

The control factors of the V‐process that may affect the quality of the castings are the molding sand, vibration frequency, vibrating time, degree of vacuum imposed, and pouring temperature.

In order to understand how these factors affect the surface roughness of the V‐process castings, response surface methodology has been applied, and to obtain the optimal setting of the control factors Taguchi's method has been used.

It is found that the pouring temperature has a significant effect on the surface roughness of Al‐11 per cent Si alloy castings made by a V‐process. Thus the pouring temperature must be kept at the lower level. All other factors are insignificant. Therefore, any setting of the insignificant factors/variables that give the minimum cost can be used.
Application of hazard and operability studies to a wide range of industries and activities
Authors: Robinson Brian W.
Published: July 2007

The origins of Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOPS) in the chemical industry are well known. This paper describes the principles of Hazard and Operability Studies, illustrates how they have been applied over a wide range of industries and activities, and outlines the most important points in carrying‐out the studies.
Characterization of InGaN quantum wells with gross fluctuations in width
Authors: van der Laak N. K. , Oliver R. A. , Kappers M. J. , Humphreys C. J.
Published: July 2007

Gross well-width fluctuations are observed in InGaN quantum wells (QWs), and have been linked to an overall three-dimensional morphology consisting of a network of interlinking InGaN strips. While these networks may be clearly observed in atomic force microscopy of appropriate uncapped epilayers, the surface morphology of capped (QW) samples reveals little or nothing of the subsurface structure of the InGaN. Hence transmission electron microscopy (TEM) must be used to determine the variations in QW thickness and composition. The network structure may be observed in either bright-field TEM or scanning transmission electron microscope high angle annular dark field images in plan-view studies of single QWs. It is suggested that multi-QWs could be imaged in cross section and the anisotropy of the network structure used as a potential signature of the three-dimensional morphology. The anisotropic nature of the network structure correlates well with the alignment of step edges in the GaN pseudosubstrates, and it is suggested that the network structure forms via the decomposition of In-rich regions arising at or near step edges.
Direct measurement of two-dimensional and three-dimensional interprecipitate distance distributions from atom-probe tomographic reconstructions
Authors: Karnesky Richard A. , Isheim Dieter , Seidman David N.
Published: July 2007

Edge-to-edge interprecipitate distance distributions are critical for predicting precipitation strengthening of alloys and other physical phenomena. A method to calculate this three-dimensional distance and the two-dimensional interplanar distance from atom-probe tomographic data is presented. It is applied to nanometer-sized Cu-rich precipitates in an Fe-1.7at.% Cu alloy. Experimental interprecipitate distance distributions are discussed.
Ideology, Ethics, and Philosophical Discourse in Eighteenth Century Iran
Authors: Cole Juan R. I.
Published: July 2007

Intellectual biography as a discipline assumes that the life and thought of an individual can shed light on an epoch. In some cases such a claim is justified, especially where the epoch is obscure and the thinker genuinely representative of the culture of a profession in a city or region. I shall argue the validity of this principle with regard to eighteenth century west-central Iran and Mohammad Mehdi Niraqi (d. 1794), a prominent Imami Shi˓i religious scholar who wrote prolifically and authored a huge three-volume work on ethics. Most of his voluminous writing remains in manuscript, but enterprising scholars in Najaf published the book on ethics, Jāmi˓ as-sa˓ādat (Compendium of Happiness), and it has recently been reissued in Beirut.

The political turmoil of eighteenth century Iran at least partially explains the difficulty modern historians have in understanding its cultural history between the fall of the Safavids in 1722 and the rise of the Qajars around 1785.
PARTIAL GASTRECTOMY AND THE WERNICKE‐KORSAKOFF SYNDROME
Authors: Kerr R.A. , Price J. , Shanley B.C.
Published: July 2007

In alcoholics an association is demonstrated between partial gastrectomy and the Wernicke‐Korsakoff syndrome. Comparing Wernicke‐Korsakoff patients who have undergone partial gastrectomy with those who have not, indicated no general difference in thiamin absorption as determined by 35S‐thiamin absorption testing. Those gastrectomized were more likely to have married, to have the continued support of their families and probably for this reason, ultimately to be discharged from hospital. Mechanisms whereby partial gastrectomy may facilitate the development of alcohol dependency are discussed and the need to avoid this operation in those with a drinking history emphasised.
Early Intervention for Harmful Alcohol Consumption: the WHO Collaborative Study
Authors: Saunders J.B. , Burns F.H. , Reznik R.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: There is growing evidence that treatment for persons with a drinking problem is more effective when it is provided at an early stage than if delayed until dependence has become established and disability severe. There are two essential components in any early intervention programme — a simple, but valid, procedure to detect persons drinking harmfully and a brief, systematic form of therapy that can be delivered by non‐specialist health professionals in a variety of health care settings. The WHO Collaborative Study was established to develop a suitable screening procedure and to evaluate various forms of brief therapy. A ten item “core” questionnaire has been developed by selecting the most representative questions contained within a comprehensive assessment schedule which was administered to non‐alcoholic drinkers recruited in six centres in both the developed and developing worlds. The questions selected relate to the quantity and frequency of drinking, alcohol dependence and alcohol‐related problems including psychological reactions to drinking. Questions on past medical history and current symptoms and findings on physical examination were excluded from the instrument because of their low correlation with alcohol intake. The instrument has high sensitivity and specificity and is easy to administer and to score. A second “clinical screening procedure” has been devised which includes non‐alcohol specific questions, clinical examination findings and a blood test. Three different types of brief therapy are currently being evaluated in 11 centres in a controlled clinical trial. In our own centre 1,000 subjects attending a variety of health care facilities and whose drinking places them at risk of harm are randomised to receive brief advice, counselling in problem solving strategies, counselling together with diary monitoring and feedback of laboratory results, or no therapy. Subjects are assessed up to 12 months by independent interviewers.
Conservative Battles for Public Education within America's Culture Wars: poignant lessons for today from the red scare of the 1950s
Authors: Foster Stuart J. , Davis, Jr O. L.
Published: July 2007

Historically public schools and public school teachers have been obvious targets for attacks by conservative critics. However, during the post World War II red scare, the rapid emergence of anti-communist sentiment and super-patriotic zeal dramatically increased their vulnerability.
In many respects the arch conservatism of the 1950s has obvious parallels with political trends in American education this century. As in the 1950s, contemporary pressures by well-organised and powerful conservative groups, 'think tanks', politicians, and economic interests have been particularly
successful in influencing educational policy and practice on a wide range of issues. Attention to the educational context of the 1950s, therefore, reasonably offers contemporary educators important historical insights into the ways in which socio-political forces profoundly shape and dramatically
influence educational policy and practice.
Reassessing 1960s philosophy of the curriculum
Authors: White John
Published: July 2007

A prominent thesis of British philosophy of education in the 1960s was that the pursuit of different forms of knowledge is central to education. The fact that the thesis is difficult to justify philosophically raises questions about its historical provenance. The idea of such a curriculum
can be traced back through the history of the middle-class curriculum to the education of dissenters in the eighteenth century and further back still to sixteenth-century Ramism. There are indications that some leading 1960s philosophers of education were affected, positively or negatively,
by these older religious ideas, but it is not clear how much should be made of this.
Immunochemical studies on human, bovine and pig brain regulatory subunits of cAMP‐dependent protein kinase type II
Authors: Sveshnikova E. V. , Alexandrova N. A. , Grozdova I. D. , Sveshnikov P. G. , Severin E. S.
Published: July 2007

Regulatory subunits type II (RII) purified from human, pig and bovine brains were compared using 11 monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) against bovine brain RII. Bovine RII has at least 5 antigenic sites located in the N‐terminal 1‐110 residues. Immunochemical difference detected between human and animal RII was more pronounced than between pig and bovine RII. Certain MoAb influenced R‐cAMP binding and holoenzyme formation. RII of the three species responded to MoAb attachment in a similar fashion. The results suggest that anchoring of neural protein kinase via the N‐terminal part of RII may influence the enzyme activity.
Purification and partial characterization of a fatty acidbinding protein from the yeast, Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Dell'Angelica Esteban C. , Ermácora Mario R. , Santomé José A.
Published: July 2007

A low‐molecular‐mass fatty acid‐binding protein was isolated from the cytosol of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. Purification was achieved by a two‐step procedure involving size‐exclusion and cation‐exchange chromatography. The isolated protein exists as a monomer of 15 kDa, is basic and has a blocked N‐terminus. Internal amino acid sequencing suggests that this protein may belong to a novel class of fatty acid‐binding proteins.
Enzymatic synthesis of oleamide (cis‐9,10‐octadecenoamide), an endogenous sleep‐inducing lipid, by rat brain microsomes
Authors: Sugiura Takayuki , Kondo Sachiko , Kodaka Tomoko , Tonegawa Takashi , Nakane Shinji , Yamashita Atsushi , Ishima Yoshio , Waku Keizo
Published: July 2007

The enzymatic synthesis of a novel sleep‐inducing lipid, oleamide (cis‐9,10‐octadecenoamide), was studied using rat brain subcellular fractions as enzyme sources. We found that oleamide was formed from oleic acid and ammonia on incubation with a brain homogenate. The enzyme activity catalyzing the formation of oleamide from oleic acid and ammonia was highest in the microsomal fraction among the subcellular fractions. Boiled microsomes did not exhibit appreciable enzyme activity. These results strongly suggest that oleamide can be synthesized enzymatically in the brains of stimulated animals.
2′3′‐CNPase and actin distribution in oligodendrocytes, relative to their mRNAs
Authors: McEwan Neil R.
Published: July 2007

By using oligodendrocyte cells, which have a very highly defined cell morphology, it is demonstrated that, in general, proteins are found slightly more distal, relative to the cell body, than their mRNA counterparts, but that there is a general trend for proteins and the messages which encode them to be found in similar regions within the cell. This has been demonstrated by use of in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry together on single cells.
The effect of α‐Tocopherol and β‐tocopherol on proliferation, protein kinase C activity and gene expression in different cell lines.
Authors: Fazzio A. , Marilley D. , Azzi A.
Published: July 2007

α‐Tocopherol, but not β‐tocopherol, negatively regulates proliferation of A7r5 vascular smooth muscle cells at physiological concentration. The HeLa cell line was not affected whereas the Chinese hamster ovary cell line (CHO) was slightly inhibited by both α‐tocopherol and β‐tocopherol. In A7r5 cells α‐tocopherol inhibited protein kinase C activity, and this correlated with inhibition of proliferation. β‐Tocopherol did not inhibit either protein kinase C or proliferation. In HeLa cells no inhibition by α‐tocopherol or β‐tocopherol of protein kinase C activity and cell proliferation was observed. In Chinese hamster ovary cells both tocopherols inhibited protein kinase C activity but not proliferation. Thus in the latter cells proliferation was not protein kinase C‐dependent. In A7r5 cells α‐tocopherol but not β‐tocopherol activated AP‐l‐mediated gene expression. In HeLa cells no change in gene expression was observed in agreement with the finding that also protein kinase C was not affected. In CHO cells gene expression was activated by both α‐tocopherol and β‐tocopherol. In this case also a positive correlation was found with similar inhibition of protein kinase C activity. In these cells, however, the changes at the level of protein kinase C activity and gene expression did not result in proliferation changes. The effect of α‐tocopherol and β‐tocopherol on protein kinase C activity and gene expression suggest a cause‐to‐effect relationship. Inhibition of proliferation, however, correlates in the case of A7r5 and HeLa cells but not in the case of CHO suggesting a different proliferation pathway for these cells.
Alterations in eighteen‐carbon saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acid peroxisomal oxidation in mouse brain during development and aging
Authors: Bourre J. M. , Piciotti M.
Published: July 2007

Peroxisomal oxidation was measured in mouse brain homogenate by adding cyanide to the test tube (which inhibits mitochondrial oxidation). Eighteen‐carbon fatty acids (saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated ware oxidized by brain peroxisomes. At nearly all ages, oxidation of oleic acid was higher (about 2 fold) than oxidation of other eighteen‐carbon fatty acids. In contrast to other fatty acids, stearic acid oxidation decreased regularly up to weaning (6 fold) and was stable thereafter. Oleic acid oxidation increased up to weaning, decreased during development up to day 70 and remained subsequently nearly stable. Linoleic acid and alpha‐linolenic acid oxidation increased up to weaning, decreased up to day 105 and was nearly stable thereafter. Alpha‐linolenic acid oxidation about was two fold lower than linoleic acid oxidation. Interestingly, peroxisomal oxidation for all fatty acids examined declined during aging, between day 365 and day 450.
Effect of cardiolipin on functional properties of isolated rat liver mitochondria
Authors: Bobyleva Valentina , Bellei Monica , Pazienza Teresa Loredana , Muscatello Umberto
Published: July 2007

The specific involvement of cardiolipin in modulating and/or controlling the activity of a number of mitochondrial carriers, enzymes and receptors is well documented; however, comparatively less understood is its role for the integrated functions of intact mitochondria.

The aim of the present research was to get a better insight into this problem by investigating the effect of in vitro addition of cardiolipin on the properties of isolated liver mitochondria.

The results obtained show that cardiolipin induces extensive structural and functional perturbations at the level of the inner mitochondrial membrane. In fact, addition of cardiolipin to intact mitochondria causes a significant increase of proton leak associated with a parallel increase of respiratory rate in State 4. Concomitantly, a slight uncoupling of phosphorylation associated with a moderate increase in ATPase activity is observed. Furthermore, the pore‐mediated membrane permeability to calcium is drastically modified, an effect that can be reversed by addition of cyclosporin.
Erythrocruorin of Glossoscolex paulistus (Oligochaeta, Glossoscolecidae): Modulation of oxygen affinity by specific antibodies
Authors: Cardillo F. , de Paula E. , Oliveira G. R. , Marangoni S. , Oliveira B. , Meirelles N. C.
Published: July 2007

1) The Soret region absorption spectrum of erythrocruorin (ERC) obtained from Glossoscolex paulistus, shows that oxy‐ERC has a maximum absorption peak at 416 nm while the deoxy‐ERC form has a maximum at 427 nm. 2) In the presence of a specific antiserum (anti‐ERC) and of anti‐ERC immunoglobulin G raised in rabbits, there is a deviation to low wavelengths in the maximum absorption peak of deoxy‐ERC while for the oxy form a red‐shift is noticed. These shifts accompanied an increased affinity of the hemeprotein for oxygen, possibly because of changes in the overall macromolecular conformation. 3) A decrease in the oxygen affinity of erythrocruorin is observed when large amounts of non‐specific serum are used. The same effect is observed in the presence of serum albumin, probably as a result of non‐specific binding between the albumin and erythrocruorin. 4) The fluorimetric titration of erythrocruorin with anti‐ERC Fab fragments results in a decrease in the intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence of the hemeprotein, a response indicative of a modification in the ERC's quaternary structure.
Captopril reverses high glucose‐induced effects on LLC‐PK1 cells partly by enhancing facilitative glucose transporter messenger RNA expressions
Authors: Yang Mei‐Li , Guh Jinn‐Yuh , Yang Yu‐Lin , Chang Chun‐Chang , Chuang Lea‐Yea
Published: July 2007

One of the mechanisms of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors in treating diabetic nephropathy is the reversal of renal hypertrophy. Hyperglycemia is the common denominator of all diabetic states. Thus, effects of captopril on high glucose (27.5 mM)‐induced alterations in LLC‐PK1 cells were studied as related to the facilitative glucose transporters. We found that high glucose (27.5 mM) inhibited mitogenesis and induced hypertrophy in these cells after 48 hours of culture concomitantly with decreased glucose transporter I messenger RNA expression. Captopril (1 mM) reversed the above effects concomitantly with enhancement of glucose transporter I and II messenger RNA expressions. We conclude that decreased expression of glucose transporter I may be associated with increased intracellular glucose and the resultant ill effects. Captopril reversed the above high glucose‐induced effects partly by enhancing glucose transporter I and II messsenger RNA expressions.
Erythrophagocytosis and its relation to band 3 clustering in chronic myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Das Amit K. , Sinha Ajay K. , Basu Joyoti
Published: July 2007

Band 3, a major erythrocyte membrane glycoprotein, undergoes topographic redistribution leading to enhanced clustering, in chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). This is probably due to the binding of heme compounds to the CML erythrocyte membrane resulting from depletion of cellular levels of reduced glutathione (GSH). Band 3 clustering appears to be one of the factors associated with increased erythrophagocytosis in CML
Behavior of uridine phosphorylase from Escherichia coli K‐12 in hydrated reversed micelles of surfactant in organic solvent
Authors: Kurganov B. I. , Burlakova A. A. , Chebotareva N. A. , Debabov V. G.
Published: July 2007

The catalytic activity of uridine phosphorylase from Escherichia coli K‐12 entrapped in hydrated reversed micelles of aerosol OT (AOT) in octane has been studied as a function of the degree of hydration of micelles. It was shown that the catalytic activity reaches maximum values at ratios [H20]/[AOT] equal to 8.4, 12.8, 16.1, and 18.6. On the basis of sedimentation data the conclusion has been made that the maximums of the catalytic activity of uridine phosphorylase correspond to monomenc, dimeric, trimeric, and tetrameric forms of the enzyme.
Stability and activity of potato acid phosphatase in aqueous surfactant media
Authors: Lalitha J. , Mulimani VH
Published: July 2007

The effect of three different classes of surfactants viz., anionic, cationic and neutral on catalytic activity of potato acid phosphatase (AcPase) was studied. Anionic surfactants bis(2‐ethylhexyl) sodium sulfosuccinate (AOT) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) inhibited AcPase activity completely at 3 mM concentration. The cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), at 3.33 mM enhanced the activity by 20 per cent. Increase in CTAB concentration decreased the activity, so that only 50 per cent was retained at 27 mM concentration. Brij 35, a neutral surfactant also decreased the activity, whereas TritonX‐100 had little or no effect. At low CTAB concentration, an increase in Vmax and a decrease in Km was observed and the V/K ratio increased. TritonX‐100 enhanced Vmax without changing Km. The V/K ratio was also increased. The UV‐difference spectra of AcPase in presence of CTAB showed perturbations. The intensity of intrinsic fluorescence also enhanced in presence of CTAB.
Molecular cloning and growth hormone‐regulated gene expression of carp insulin‐like growth factor‐I
Authors: Hashimoto Hisashi , Mikawa Satoshi , Takayama Eiji , Yokoyama Yoshihiro , Toyohara Haruhiko , Sakaguchi Morihiko
Published: July 2007

Two distinct insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐1 cDNAs were isolated from a juvenile carp liver cDNA library. Both of the cDNAs encoded a full length prepro IGF‐I with 161 amino acids: a mature peptide (70 residues), its signal peptide (44 residues), and a carboxy‐terminal E domain (47 residues). The similarity of the two cDNA in the open reading frame was 95.1%. The amino acid sequences of E domain predicted by the two cDNAs were different while those of the signal peptide and the mature peptide were the same. By Northern blot analysis, four different sizes (1, 1.5, 2, and 4.5kb) of IGF‐I mRNA were recognized in the liver of juvenile carp. The two smaller species (lkb and 1.5kb) were not detected in adult carp. The expression of these two species was preferably induced by exogenous growth hormone administration in the liver of juvenile carp.
Mutation of Arg154 to Gly154 in urokinase augments its fibrin‐specificity
Authors: Peng Guihong , Ma Zhong , Kuai Letian , Zhu Dexu
Published: July 2007

Rscu‐PA and its mutant constructed by in vitro site specific mutagenesis of Arg154 in rscu‐PA to Gly154 (mscu‐PA) were both expressed in Escherichia coli. After in vitro denaturation and renaturation, the rscu‐PA and mscu‐PA were purified to homogeneity by Zn2+ selective precipitation, anti‐u‐PA IgG‐sepharose CL 4B affinity chromatography. After activation by plasmin, the kinetic constants for the resultant mtcu‐PA against synthetic substrate S2444 hydrolysis were found to be essentially identical to rtcu‐PA, suggesting that no impairment had been exerted on the catalytic active site of mtcu‐PA. However, both 125I‐fibrin plasma‐clot lysis and fibrinogenolysis showed that mtcu‐PA possessed a higher fibrinolytic activity but hardly any degradation of fibrinogen in plasma compared to rtcu‐PA and rscu‐PA. It was concluded that the substitution of Arg154 by Gly154 in tcu‐PA promoted the fibrin‐specificity of urokinase.
FcεRI‐ligation induces association of tyrosine phosphorylated proteins with SRC homology 2 domains of phospholipase Cγ1 in RBL‐2H3 rat basophilic leukemia cells
Authors: Han Mi Y. , Koh Woo S. , Yoon Sun Y. , Park Young M. , Choe Yong K.
Published: July 2007

Stimulation of the IgE receptors on mast cells and basophils activates protein tyrosine kinases and phosphotipases leading to histamine release. However, the mechanism by which protein tyrosine kinases regulate the phospholipases is not clearly defined yet. In this study, we examined the possibility that phospholipase Cγ1 associates with protein tyrosine kinases and tyrosine phosphorylated molecules as a result of activation of RBL‐2H3 cells, and that this association involves the Src homology 2 domains of phospholipase CγI. An increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+ level and tyrosine phosphorylations of proteins, including 72 and 40 kDa proteins, were observed after the cross‐linking of the IgE receptors on RBL‐2H3 rat basophilic cells by dinitrophenyl‐specific IgE and dinitrophenyl‐conjugated human serum albumin. Immunoprecipitation and coprecipitation experiments were performed to determine if the activation of protein tyrosine kinases is linked to the activation of phospholipase Cγ1 via its SH2 domains. Tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase Cγ1 was observed in 1 min following IgE receptor stimulation. Several proteins (72, 50, 40, and 33 kDa) were identified to be tyrosine phosphorytated and specifically associated with phospholipase Cγ1 by its Src homology 2 domains. In addition, the coprecipitated complex contains the tyrosine kinase activity which phosphorylates 72, 40, and 33 kDa proteins in the complex. In conclusion, these studies establish that tyrosine‐phosphorylated proteins of 72, 40, and 33 kDa associate with phospholipase Cγ1 via its SH2 domains following IgE receptor stimulation of RBL‐2H3 basophilic cells, implying that protein tyrosine kinases may tyrosine‐phosphorylate and recruit signaling proteins around the phospholipase Cγ1 and that phospholipase Cγ1 activation induces calcium mobilization, PKC activation and degranulation in mast cells or basophils.
Induction of mRNAs for ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, and ELAM‐1 in cultured rat cardiac myocytes and myocardium in vivo
Authors: Hattori Yoshiyuki , Kasai Kikuo
Published: July 2007

We evaluated the expression of mRNAs for intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), vascular cell adhesion molucule‐I (VCAM‐1), and endothelial leukocyte adhesion molecule‐1 (ELAM‐1) in cultured neonatal rat cardiac myocytes and in the rat heart by the reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction with gene specific primers. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon‐γ induced gene expression for ICAM‐t, VCAM‐1, and ELAM‐1 in cultured cardiac myocytes. While mRNA for any of these adhesion molecules was very low or negligible in hearts of control rats, the three mRNAs were substantially induced in hearts 3h after the injection of LPS. Results show that mRNAs for the three inducible adhesion molecules are expressed in cultured cardiac myocytes and rat heart tissues and are enhanced by immune stimulation, suggesting their involvement in cardiac inflammatory disorders.
Effect of “βCATECHIN” on the life span of senescence accelerated mice (SAM‐P8 strain)
Authors: Kumari M.V. Ramana , Yoneda Tadashi , Hiramatsu Midori
Published: July 2007

“βCATECHIN”, a preparation of natural vitamins and phytosubstances, has been designed as an “universal antioxidant” drink. Having previously demonstrated the scavenging action of a variety of free radicals by “βCATECHIN”, we now report the effect of its long renal administration on the life span of senescence accelerated mice (SAM‐P8), a routine model system that offers many characteristics of mammalian aging with a shortened life span. Both male and female SAM (age: 10 weeks) maintained on “βCATECHIN” containing drinking water (lml/kg b.w) showed significant extension of the mean life span as compared to their respective controls that received normal drinking water. Results show that administration of “βCATECHIN” increased the 50% mean survival rate by 8 weeks in case of female, and 7.5 weeks for male SAM. In addition to offering fresh evidence to the “free radical theory of aging”, the results emphasize on the importance of a daily supplement of natural antioxidants, especially as a combination, to achieve the goal of a long and disease‐free life.
Identification of two poly (A) Polymerases in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Sarkar Bedabrata , Cao Gong‐jie , Sarkar Nilima
Published: July 2007

Two poly(A) polymerase activities were identified in extracts of a strain of Bacillus subtilis in which the gene for polynucleotide phosphorylase was disrupted. Gel filtration studies showed a large difference in the molecular size of the two poly(A) polymerases. On the other hand, the two enzymes resembled the two major poly(A) polymerases of Escherichia coli both with respect to size and in many of their catalytic properties. The observation that both B. subtilis and E. coli have two poly(A) polymerases with many common properties suggest interesting parallels in the processing of the 3′‐ends of mRNA in gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria.
Primary structure of the smallest (6.4‐kDa) subunit of human and bovine ubiquinol‐cytochrome c reductase deduced from cDNA seqences
Authors: Islam Mohammed M. , Suzuki Hiroshi , Yoneda Makoto , Tanaka Masashi
Published: July 2007

Amino acid sequences of the smallest subunit of human and bovine ubiquinol‐cytochrome c reductase were deduced from nucleotide sequence of recombinant cDNA clones isolated by screening the corresponding cDNA libraries. Both proteins were composed of 56 amino acids. They were 84% homologous to each other in the coding nucleotide sequences and 88% homologous in the amino acid sequences. Southern blot analysis with human DNA suggested the presence of a single gene coding for the protein. Northern blot of human mRNAs from different tissues confirmed the existence of a single species of transcript among the tissues but the human gene is highly expressed in bioenergetically active tissues like heart and skeletal muscle.
Encystment ‐ specific mRNA is accumulated in the resting cysts of the ciliate Colpoda inflata
Authors: Benítez Laura , Gutiérrez Juan C.
Published: July 2007

From a random amplified polymorphism cDNA study using vegetative, precystic and mature resting cysts of the ciliate Colpoda inflata, a stage‐specific fragment was isolated from the resting cyst cDNA population. This fragment was used as an encystment probe to study the corresponding mRNA expression during this eukaryotic cell differentiation process. This transcript is accumulated in the resting cyst of this ciliate, and it is the first time that accumulation of specific mRNA molecules associated with the ciliate cryptobiosis process is reported. The meaning of this stored mRNA in microbial cryptobiotic stages is discussed.