bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can NK cells be a therapeutic target in human type 1 diabetes?
Authors: Dotta Francesco , Fondelli Cecilia , Falorni Alberto
Published: October 2008

Type 1 diabetes is caused by the autoimmune destruction of insulin‐producing cells with consequent hyperglycemia and serious chronic complications. Both innate and adaptive immune responses participate in disease pathogenesis. Studies in animal models and in man have shown that NK cells are involved both in disease progression and in disease protection, thus suggesting that NK cells can represent a potential therapeutic target in type 1 diabetes, once the contribution of these cells to islet autoimmunity has been fully elucidated.
Macromol. Rapid Commun. 21/2008
Authors: Zhu Ying , He Haiyong , Wan Meixiang , Jiang Lei
Published: October 2008

Front Cover: The cover picture shows that nanofibers and 3D roselike microstructures of polyaniline (PANI) were synthesized by a simplified template‐free method under 25% and 80% relative humidity. When the relative humidity is increased from 25% to 80%, not only the morphology of micro‐/nanometer‐sized PANI undergoes a change from 1D nanofibers to 2D nanosheets to 3D roselike microstructures, but the crystallinity increases as well. Further details can be found in the article by Y. Zhu, H. He, M. Wan,* L. Jiang* on page 1705.
Effect of Reaction Conditions and Catalyst Design on the Rheological Properties of Polyolefins Produced in Gas‐Phase Olefin Polymerization Reactors
Authors: Pladis P. , Kanellopoulos V. , Chatzidoukas C. , Kiparissides C.
Published: October 2008

A model is developed to predict the viscoelastic behavior of polyolefins produced in catalytic polymerization reactors. The approach is based on the solution of different sub‐models (e.g., a kinetic model, a single particle model, a macroscopic reactor model and a rheological model). From the calculated rheological curve, the polymer melt index is determined. The ability of the proposed model to predict the viscoelastic behavior of linear polymer melts quantitatively is examined for the operation of a catalytic olefin polymerization cascade‐loop reactor process. In addition, the transient rheological properties of polyolefins produced in a Ziegler‐Natta gas‐phase olefin polymerization fluidized‐bed reactor are calculated.

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Three‐Dimensional Measurement of Particle Shape
Authors: Bujak Beate , Bottlinger Michael
Published: October 2008

A system for simultaneous three‐dimensional measurement of particle shape has been developed. The system is based on a free‐fall analysis. Free‐falling particles are captured from three orthogonal directions and reconstructed in the three‐dimensional sense. The three‐dimensional information can be used for particle characterization as well as for simulations of particle behavior.
Electric field measurement for quantum‐dot cellular automata clocking circuits
Authors: Yan Minjun
Published: October 2008

Bistable molecules under electric field are being investigated for the concept of quantum‐dot cellular automata (QCA). Different configurations of molecular arrays implement various logic devices and circuits. The electric field emitted from underlying metal wires, which are applied with clock signal, not only enables power gain, but also fulfills pipelining computation. It might be convenient to measure the electric field distribution directly from these metal wires. A pseudo‐quantitative method was developed to map the electric field distribution with electrostatic force microscopy. This method converts the phase signal into the electric field intensity, by which we demonstrated how to use a particular electric field distribution to drive the computation of QCA molecules. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms of the 5′ untranslated region of the human α‐galactosidase gene on enzyme activity, and their frequencies in Portuguese caucasians
Authors: Oliveira J. P. , Ferreira S. , Barceló J. , Gaspar P. , Carvalho F. , Sá Miranda M. C. , Månsson J.‐E.
Published: November 2008

Background:

The α‐galactosidase gene (GLA) has three single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in the 5′ untranslated region of exon 1, respectively g.1150G>A, g.1168G>A, g.1170C>T. The g.1150A allele is associated with increased plasma α‐galactosidase (α‐Gal) activity in hemizygotes, while the others are regarded as biologically neutral. The primary goal of this investigation was to test the hypothesis, raised by a clinical observation and results of a family study, that the g.1170T allele polymorphism is associated with lower α‐Gal expression.

Subjects and methods:

Plasma and leukocyte α‐Gal activities were assayed in unrelated healthy young adults of both sexes, who had been genotyped for GLA exon 1, and enzyme activity values in carriers of any of the polymorphisms were compared to those of individuals with the standard genotype; GLA exon 1 was genotyped in males who had α‐Gal activity in dried blood spots lower than 2 SD below the cohort average.

Results and conclusions:

Mean α‐Gal leukocyte activity was ∼25% higher in subjects with the g.1170C or CC genotype than in those with the alternative genotypes (p < 0.05). The frequency of the g.1170T allele in subjects with low α‐Gal activity in dried blood spots was 4‐fold higher (p < 0.05) than in the general population. As in hemizygotes, the g.1150A heterozygote identified in this study had plasma α‐Gal activity more than 2‐fold above the normal mean. The g.1168A allele did not affect enzyme activity. Surprisingly, females with the standard GLA exon 1 genotype had significantly higher plasma α‐Gal activity than genetically comparable males.
Conflict negotiation and autonomy processes in adolescent romantic relationships: An observational study of interdependency in boyfriend and girlfriend effects
Authors: McIsaac Caroline , Connolly Jennifer , McKenney Katherine S. , Pepler Debra , Craig Wendy
Published: November 2008

This study examined the association between conflict negotiation and the expression of autonomy in adolescent romantic partners. Thirty‐seven couples participated in a globally coded conflict interaction task. Actor‐partner interdependence models (APIM) were used to quantify the extent to which boys’ and girls’ autonomy was linked solely to their own negotiation of the conflict or whether it was linked conjointly to their own and their partners’ negotiation style. Combining agentic autonomy theories and peer socialization models, it was expected that boys’ and girls’ autonomy would be associated only with their own conflict behaviors when they employed conflict styles reflective of their same gender repertoire, and associated conjointly with self and partner behaviors when they employed gender‐atypical conflict styles. Instead of an equal, albeit distinct, positioning in the autonomy dynamic, the results suggested that girls’ autonomy is associated solely with their own conflict behaviors, whereas boys’ autonomy is jointly associated with their own and their partners’ conflict behaviors. We discuss the relative power of boys and girls in emergent dyadic contexts, emphasizing how romantic dynamics shape salient abilities.
Gastrointestinal symptoms under opioid therapy: A prospective comparison of oral sustained‐release hydromorphone, transdermal fentanyl, and transdermal buprenorphine
Authors: Wirz Stefan , Wittmann Maria , Schenk Michael , Schroeck Andreas , Schaefer Nico , Mueller Marcus , Standop Jens , Kloecker Norbert , Nadstawek Joachim
Published: November 2008

Introduction: The purpose of this trial was to evaluate the effect of long‐term treatment with oral sustained‐release hydromorphone, transdermal fentanyl, and transdermal buprenorphine on nausea, emesis and constipation.

Patients and methods: Randomly selected outpatients with cancer pain receiving one of the study medications were enrolled in a prospective, open‐labeled, controlled trial (n=174). Mobility, pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed directly and per selected item on the ECOG (Eastern Cancer Oncology Group), EORTC (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer) questionnaires, NRS (Numerical Rating Scales), and analyzed statistically.

Results: Demographic and medical data were comparable in all groups. Only 15% of patients suffered from constipation. 59% took the prescribed laxatives. The incidence of stool free periods >72h was significantly higher with transdermal opioids (transdermal fentanyl: 22%; transdermal buprenorphine: 21%; oral hydromorphone: 2%; p=0.003). 21% of patients revealed nausea and emesis. The mean NRS for nausea (transdermal fentanyl:1.3; transdermal buprenorphine: 1.2; oral hydromorphone: 1.5; p=0.6), the consumption of antiemetics (transdermal fentanyl: 42%; transdermal buprenorphine: 33%; oral hydromorphone: 36%; p=0.6) and laxatives (transdermal fentanyl:53%; transdermal buprenorphine:66%; oral hydromorphone: 61%; p=0.2) did not differ significantly, in contrast to the score for emesis (transdermal fentanyl: 16%; transdermal buprenorphine:13%; oral hydromorphone: 33%; p=0.02). Morphine equivalent opioid doses differed (mg/d transdermal fentanyl: 183; transdermal buprenorphine: 89; oral hydromorphone: 143; p=0.001), because of obvious tolerance varying after long‐term treatment.

Conclusions: Gastrointestinal symptoms of cancer pain patients undergoing an opioid therapy are related to multifactorial causes. Transdermal opioids showed no benefit over oral controlled‐release hydromorphone with regard to gastrointestinal symptoms. The conversion ratios for transdermal fentanyl, transdermal buprenorphine, and oral hydromorphone did not accord to the literature, because of differing occurrences of opioid tolerance after long‐term therapy.
Myopathy in CRPS‐I: Disuse or neurogenic?
Authors: Hulsman Natalie M. , Geertzen Jan H.B. , Dijkstra Pieter U. , van den Dungen Jan J.A.M. , den Dunnen Wilfred F.A.
Published: November 2008

The diagnosis Complex Regional Pain Syndrome type I (CRPS‐I) is based on clinical symptoms, including motor symptoms. Histological changes in muscle tissue may be present in the chronic phase of CRPS‐I. Aim of this study was to analyze skeletal muscle tissue from amputated limbs of patients with CRPS‐I, in order to gain more insight in factors that may play a role in changes in muscles in CRPS‐I. These changes may be helpful in clarifying the pathophysiology of CRPS‐I. Fourteen patients with therapy resistant and longstanding CRPS‐I, underwent an amputation of the affected limb. In all patients histological analysis showed extensive changes in muscle tissue, such as fatty degeneration, fibre atrophy and nuclear clumping, which was not related to duration of CRPS‐I prior to amputation. In all muscles affected, both type 1 and type 2 fibre atrophy was found, without selective type 2 fibre atrophy. In four patients, type grouping was observed, indicating a sequence of denervation and reinnervation of muscle tissue. In two patients even large group atrophy was present, suggesting new denervation after reinnervation. Comparison between subgroups in arms and legs showed no difference in the number of changes in muscle tissue. Intrinsic and extrinsic muscles were affected equally. Our findings show that in the chronic phase of CRPS‐I extensive changes can be seen in muscle tissue, not related to duration of CRPS‐I symptoms. Signs of neurogenic myopathy were present in five patients.
Gabapentin reverses microglial activation in the spinal cord of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Wodarski Rachel , Clark Anna K. , Grist John , Marchand Fabien , Malcangio Marzia
Published: November 2008

Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy worldwide. Despite this high level of incidence, underlying mechanisms of the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain are still poorly understood. Evidence supports a prominent role of glial cells in neuropathic pain states. Gabapentin is used clinically and shows some efficacy in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Here we investigate the distribution and activation of spinal microglia and astrocytes in streptozotocin (STZ)‐diabetic rats and the effect of the gold standard analgesic, Gabapentin, on these cells. Mechanical allodynia was observed in four week‐diabetic rats. Oral administration of Gabapentin significantly attenuated mechanical allodynia. Quantification of cell markers Iba‐1 for microglia and GFAP for astrocytes revealed extensive activation of microglia in the dorsal horn of diabetic rats, whereas a reduction in the number of astrocytes could be observed. In addition, an attenuation of microglial activation correlated with reduced allodynia following Gabapentin treatment, while Gabapentin had no effect on the number of astrocytes. Here we show a role of microglia in STZ‐induced mechanical allodynia and furthermore, that the anti‐allodynic effect of Gabapentin may be linked to a reduction of spinal microglial activation. Astrocytic activation in this model appears to be limited and is unaffected by Gabapentin treatment. Consequently, spinal microglial activation is a key mechanism underlying diabetic neuropathy. Furthermore, we suggest that Gabapentin may exert its anti‐allodynic actions partially through alterations of microglial cell function.
Participation of peripheral tachykinin NK1 receptors in the carrageenan‐induced inflammation of the rat temporomandibular joint
Authors: Denadai‐Souza Alexandre , Camargo Livia de Lucca , Ribela Maria T.C.P. , Keeble Julie E. , Costa Soraia K.P. , Muscará Marcelo N.
Published: November 2008

Temporomandibular disorders represent one of the major challenges in dentistry therapeutics. This study was undertaken to evaluate the time course of carrageenan‐induced inflammation in the rat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and to investigate the role of tachykinin NK1 receptors. Inflammation was induced by a single intra‐articular (i.art.) injection of carrageenan into the left TMJ (control group received sterile saline). Inflammatory parameters such as plasma extravasation, leukocyte influx and mechanical allodynia (measured as the head‐withdrawal force threshold) and TNFα and IL‐1β concentrations were measured in the TMJ lavages at selected time‐points. The carrageenan‐induced responses were also evaluated after treatment with the NK1 receptor antagonist SR140333. The i.art. injection of carrageenan into the TMJ caused a time‐dependent plasma extravasation associated with mechanical allodynia, and a marked neutrophil accumulation between 4 and 24h. Treatment with SR140333 substantially inhibited the increase in plasma extravasation and leukocyte influx at 4 and 24h, as well as the production of TNFα and IL‐1β into the joint cavity, but failed to affect changes in head‐withdrawal threshold. The results obtained from the present TMJ‐arthritis model provide, for the first time, information regarding the time course of this experimental inflammatory process. In addition, our data show that peripheral NK1 receptors mediate the production of both TNFα and IL‐1β in the TMJ as well as some of the inflammatory signs, such as plasma extravasation and leukocyte influx, but not the nociceptive component.
Sex and ethnic differences among South Tirolean suicides: A psychological autopsy study
Authors: Pycha Roger , Pompili Maurizio , Innamorati Marco , Schwitzer Josef , Lester David , Sani Gabriele , Tatarelli Roberto , Giupponi Giancarlo
Published: November 2008

Objective

The aim of the research is to study whether any differences exist in the rates and characteristics of suicide by ethnicity and sex in South Tirol, Italy.

Methods

Psychological autopsy interviews were conducted for suicides who died between March 1997 and July 2006.

Results

332 individuals belonging to the three major South Tirolean ethnic groups (Germans, Italians, Ladins [Ladin is a Rhaeto-Romance language related to the Venetian and Swiss Romansh languages]) died by suicide. Around 23% of the victims had experienced suicidal behaviour among family members, and more than 31% of them had experienced trauma during their childhood. Germans were 1.37 times more at risk to commit suicide than Italians (95% CI: 1.04/1.80;z= 2.26,p< .05). 69% of the suicides had attended school for less than 8 years: Germans (OR = 4.62; 95% CI: 2.52/8.47;p< .001) and Ladins (OR = 11.24; 95% CI: 2.99/42.30;p< .001) were more likely to have lower education than Italians. There were several differences by ethnicity and sex but no sex-by-ethnicity interactions.

Conclusions

The study indicated that suicide, an alarming health and social problem in South Tirol, may require different preventive interventions for men and women and for those of different ethnicities.
Activation of leukocyte rolling by the cysteine‐rich domain and the hyper‐variable region of HF3, a snake venom hemorrhagic metalloproteinase
Authors: Menezes Milene C. , Paes Leme Adriana F. , Melo Robson L. , Silva Carlos A. , Della Casa Maisa , Bruni Fernanda M. , Lima Carla , Lopes-Ferreira Mônica , Camargo Antonio C.M. , Fox Jay W. , Serrano Solange M.T.
Published: November 2008

The functionality of the disintegrin‐like/cysteine‐rich domains of snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs) has been shown to reside in the cysteine‐rich region, which can interact with VWA‐containing proteins. Recently, the hyper‐variable region (HVR) of the cysteine‐rich domain was suggested to constitute a potential protein–protein adhesive interface. Here we show that recombinant proteins of HF3, a hemorrhagic P‐III SVMP, containing the cysteine‐rich domain (disintegrin‐like/cysteine‐rich and cysteine‐rich proteins) but not the disintegrin‐like protein were able to significantly increase leukocyte rolling in the microcirculation. Peptides from the HVR also promoted leukocyte rolling and this activity was inhibited by anti‐alphaM/beta2 antibodies. These results show, for the first time, that the cysteine‐rich domain and its HVR play a role in triggering pro‐inflammatory effects mediated by integrins.
Crystal structure of mSULT1D1, a mouse catecholamine sulfotransferase
Authors: Teramoto Takamasa , Sakakibara Yoichi , Inada Kanako , Kurogi Katsuhisa , Liu Ming-Cheh , Suiko Masahito , Kimura Makoto , Kakuta Yoshimitsu
Published: November 2008

In mammals, sulfonation as mediated by specific cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULTs) plays an important role in the homeostasis of dopamine and other catecholamines. To gain insight into the structural basis for dopamine recognition/binding, we determined the crystal structure of a mouse dopamine‐sulfating SULT, mouse SULT1D1 (mSULT1D1). Data obtained indicated that mSULT1D1 comprises of a single α/β domain with a five‐stranded parallel β‐sheet. In contrast to the structure of the human SULT1A3 (hSULT1A3)‐dopamine complex previously reported, molecular modeling and mutational analysis revealed that a water molecule plays a critical role in the recognition of the amine group of dopamine by mSULT1D1. These results imply differences in substrate binding between dopamine‐sulfating SULTs from different species.
Point mutations in the barley HvHAK1 potassium transporter lead to improved K+‐nutrition and enhanced resistance to salt stress
Authors: Mangano Silvina , Silberstein Susana , Santa-María Guillermo E.
Published: November 2008

Members of group I KT‐HAK‐KUP transporters play an important role in K+ acquisition by plant roots, a process that is strongly affected by salt stress. A PCR‐based random mutagenesis approach on HvHAK1 allowed identification of V366I and R591C substitutions, which confer enhanced K+‐capture, and improved NaCl, LiCl and NH4Cl tolerance, to yeast cells. Improved K+‐capture was linked to an enhanced V
max. Results reveal an intrinsic protective effect of K+, and assign an important role to the 8th transmembrane domain, as well as the C‐terminus, in determining the maximum capacity for the transport of K+ in KT‐HAK‐KUP transporters.
Taxanes inhibit human TLR4 signaling by binding to MD‐2
Authors: Resman Nuša , Gradišar Helena , Vašl Jožica , Keber Mateja Manček , Pristovšek Primož , Jerala Roman
Published: November 2008

LPS is the primary ligand of Toll‐like receptor 4, activating it through binding to its accessory protein MD‐2. Murine but not human cells expressing MD‐2/TLR4 are also activated by paclitaxel. Paclitaxel binds to human MD‐2. The binding site of paclitaxel overlaps with the binding site of bis‐ANS and LPS, which results in the ability of taxanes to inhibit LPS signaling in the system with human receptors. Circular dichroic spectra of human MD‐2 indicated differences in the chemical environment in the presence of paclitaxel and docetaxel. Molecular docking identified the interacting residues of MD‐2 and suggests that hydrophobic interactions govern the binding, while the C‐3′N group where the paclitaxel and docetaxel differ is exposed on the surface of MD‐2.
Structural characterization of soluble E‐Syt2
Authors: Groer Gerhard J. , Haslbeck Martin , Roessle Manfred , Gessner André
Published: November 2008

The protein family of membrane‐anchored extended synaptotagmin‐like proteins (E‐Syts) was recently discovered in humans. E‐Syt1 to 3 each contain at least one transmembrane domain and three or five C2 domains. To investigate the whole C2 area of murine E‐Syt2, highly pure recombinant E‐Syt2 (rE‐Syt2) covering all three C2 domains was isolated. The structure of rE‐Syt2 was studied by small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) providing a three‐dimensional image of a protein with three C2 domains. Calcium binding of rE‐Syt2 triggered structural rearrangements and initiated reversible multimerization of the protein in vitro. Quantitative analysis of the calcium binding revealed an apparent binding constant of 100 μM. This is the first structural study of a multi‐C2 protein, presumably involved in Ca‐dependent signalling events.
Structural studies of human brain‐type creatine kinase complexed with the ADP–Mg2+–NO3−–creatine transition‐state analogue complex
Authors: Bong Seoung Min , Moon Jin Ho , Nam Ki Hyun , Lee Ki Seog , Chi Young Min , Hwang Kwang Yeon
Published: November 2008

Creatine kinase is a member of the phosphagen kinase family, which catalyzes the reversible phosphoryl transfer reaction that occurs between ATP and creatine to produce ADP and phosphocreatine. Here, three structural aspects of human‐brain‐type‐creatine‐kinase (hBB‐CK) were identified by X‐ray crystallography: the ligand‐free‐form at 2.2 Å; the ADP–Mg2+, nitrate, and creatine complex (transition‐state‐analogue complex; TSAC); and the ADP–Mg2+‐complex at 2.0 Å. The structures of ligand‐bound hBB‐CK revealed two different monomeric states in a single homodimer. One monomer is a closed form, either bound to TSAC or the ADP–Mg2+‐complex, and the second monomer is an unliganded open form. These structural studies provide a detailed mechanism indicating that the binding of ADP–Mg2+ alone may trigger conformational changes in hBB‐CK that were not observed with muscle‐type‐CK.
Involvement of Sema4A in the progression of experimental autoimmune myocarditis
Authors: Makino Nobuhiko , Toyofuku Toshihiko , Takegahara Noriko , Takamatsu Hyota , Okuno Tatsusada , Nakagawa Yukinobu , Kang Sujin , Nojima Satoshi , Hori Masatsugu , Kikutani Hitoshi , Kumanogoh Atsushi
Published: November 2008

Dilated cardiomyopathy often results from autoimmunity triggered by microbial infections during myocarditis. However, it remains unclear how immunological disorders are implicated in pathogenesis of autoimmune myocarditis. Here, we demonstrated that Sema4A, a class IV semaphorin, plays key roles in experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM). Dendritic cells pulsed with myosin heavy chain‐α peptides induced severe myocarditis in wild‐type mice, but not in Sema4A‐deficient mice. In adoptive transfer experiments, CD4+ T‐cells from wild‐type mice induced severe myocarditis, while CD4+ T‐cells from Sema4A‐deficient mice exhibited considerably attenuated myocarditis. Our results indicated that Sema4A is critically involved in EAM by regulating differentiation of T‐cells.
Functional evidence for presynaptic P2X7 receptors in adult rat cerebrocortical nerve terminals
Authors: Alloisio Susanna , Cervetto Chiara , Passalacqua Mario , Barbieri Raffaella , Maura Guido , Nobile Mario , Marcoli Manuela
Published: November 2008

The presynaptic P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) plays an important role in the modulation of transmitter release. We recently demonstrated that, in nerve terminals of the adult rat cerebral cortex, P2X7R activation induced Ca2+‐dependent vesicular glutamate release and significant Ca2+‐independent glutamate efflux through the P2X7R itself. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the new selective P2X7R competitive antagonist 3‐(5‐(2,3‐dichlorophenyl)‐1H‐tetrazol‐1‐yl)methyl pyridine (A‐438079) on cerebrocortical terminal intracellular calcium (intrasynaptosomal calcium concentration;[Ca2+]i signals and glutamate release, and evaluated whether P2X7R immunoreactivity was consistent with these functional tests. A‐438079 inhibited functional responses. P2X7R immunoreactivity was found in about 45% of cerebrocortical terminals, including glutamatergic and non‐glutamatergic terminals. This percentage was similar to that of synaptosomes showing P2X7R‐mediated [Ca2+]i signals. These findings provide compelling evidence of functional presynaptic P2X7R in cortical nerve terminals.
Aligning benefits with payments: A test of the pattern alignment hypothesis
Authors: Auh Seigyoung , Shih Eric , Yoon Yeosun
Published: November 2008

This article examines consumer perception of transactions whose benefits of consumption and cost of purchase unfold over time. Specifically, the article employs the notion of narrow framing to suggest that, when consumers confront a series of decisions, they tend to make evaluations one at a time, rather than take into consideration the entire portfolio. Consistent with this argument, the authors test the pattern alignment hypothesis, which states that consumers prefer payment schemes that match the pattern of benefits and payments in each period, rather than a scheme that encompasses an entire financing period. In two experiments, the authors find general support for the pattern alignment hypothesis and for the underlying process by which this hypothesis occurs. Specifically, Experiment 2 highlights the mediating role of consumers' perceived fairness in determining the effectiveness of a financing program. The paper concludes with a discussion of the theoretical and practical implications of developing financing and pricing strategies that promote the perception of fairness.
When does negative brand publicity hurt? The moderating influence of analytic versus holistic thinking
Authors: Monga Alokparna Basu , John Deborah Roedder
Published: November 2008

Negative publicity can diminish positive consumer perceptions of a brand. We explore the impact of processing style on mitigating the effects of negative publicity. We hypothesize that holistic thinkers are less susceptible to negative publicity information than are analytic thinkers. Holistic thinkers are more likely to consider external context‐based explanations for the negative publicity, resulting in little or no revision of beliefs about the parent brand. Analytic thinkers, in contrast, are less likely to consider contextual factors, attributing negative information to the parent brand and updating their brand beliefs accordingly. Across three studies, we find support for our predictions.
Operational hedging against adverse circumstances⋆
Authors: Weiss Dan , Maher Michael W.
Published: November 2008

This paper investigates operational hedging against severe disruptions to normal operations. It offers a new method to evaluate the extent that operations policy serves as a hedge against adverse circumstances. We apply the proposed method to explore how supply chain characteristics affect the responses of airlines to the acute demand fall off after the September 11 terrorist attacks. Results indicate that operational hedging vehicles (fleet standardization, high‐fleet utilization, an aircraft ownership policy rather than leasing, and international operations) are more powerful in protecting firms than using financial instruments. The study contributes in guiding managers as to how operations policy can serve as an imperative factor in mitigating exposures to low‐end performance levels.
The relative utility of foraminifera and diatoms for reconstructing late Holocene sea-level change in North Carolina, USA
Authors: Kemp Andrew C. , Horton Benjamin P. , Corbett D. Reide , Culver Stephen J. , Edwards Robin J. , van de Plassche Orson
Published: November 2008

Foraminifera and diatoms preserved in salt-marsh sediments have been used to produce high-resolution records of Holocene relative sea-level (RSL) change. To determine which of these microfossil groups is most appropriate for this purpose we investigated their relative utility from salt marshes in North Carolina, USA. Regional-scale transfer functions were developed using foraminifera, diatoms and a combination of both (multi-proxy) from three salt marshes (Oregon Inlet, Currituck Barrier Island and Pea Island). We evaluated each approach on the basis of transfer-function performance. Foraminifera, diatoms and multi-proxy-based transfer functions all demonstrated a strong relationship between observed and predicted elevations (r2jack > 0.74 and RMSEP < 0.05 m), suggesting that they have equal utility. Application of the transfer functions to a fossil core from Salvo to reconstruct former sea levels enabled us to consider relative utility in light of ‘paleo-performance’. Fossil foraminifera had strong modern analogues, whilst diatoms had poor modern analogues making them unreliable. This result reflects the high diversity and site-specific distribution of modern diatoms. Consequently, we used foraminifera to reconstruct RSL change for the period since ∼ AD 1800 using a 210Pb- and 14C-based chronology, and we were able to reconcile this with tide-gauge records.
ON REPRESENTATIONS OF QUANTUM GROUPSUq(fm(K,H))
Authors: TANG XIN , XU YUNGE
Published: October 2008

We construct families of irreducible representations for a class of quantum groupsUq(fm(K,H). First, we realize these quantum groups as hyperbolic algebras. Such a realization yields natural families of irreducible weight representations forUq(fm(K,H)). Second, we study the relationship betweenUq(fm(K,H)) andUq(fm(K)). As a result, any finite-dimensional weight representation ofUq(fm(K,H)) is proved to be completely reducible. Finally, we study the Whittaker model for the center ofUq(fm(K,H)), and a classification of all irreducible Whittaker representations ofUq(fm(K,H)) is obtained.
Dietary fat clearance in type V hyperlipoproteinaemia secondary to a rare variant of human apolipoprotein E: the apolipoprotein E3 (Arg 136 → Ser)
Authors: Vialettes Bernard , Reynier Pascal , Atlan-Gepner Catherine , Mekki Nadia , Lesluyes-Mazzochi Laurence , Luc Gérard , Lairon Denis , Malthiery Yves
Published: October 2008

This present case report describes two siblings with severe type V hyperlipoproteinaemia, diagnosed very early in life and due to the combination of the common apolipoprotein (Apo) E2 allele and a rare mutant variant of ApoE, ApoE3 (Arg 136 → Ser). Phenotyping of ApoE falsely identified E2/E2 phenotype. The presence of mutated ApoE was suspected on an unusual restriction polymorphism of a Hha 1 restriction site and confirmed by sequence analysis of the cloned polymerase chain reaction fragment of exon 4 and familial segregation study. The severity of the hypertriacylglycerolaemia was modulated by the lipid content of the diet. A low-fat diet enriched in medium-chain triacylglycerol (TAG) decreased but did not normalize plasma TAG levels in both affected patients of the pedigree. A standardized lipid-enriched test meal showed a marked impairment of TAG-rich lipoprotein (TRL) clearance, especially the exogeneous TRL bearing ApoB-48 which still represented 79 % of total TRL 7 h after the fat load. Finally, differences between the male and female siblings with the existence of a consanguine relationship in their parents suggested the involvement of other genetic factors in modulating the severity of phenotypic expression. This observation reinforces the usefulness of genotyping of ApoE for the characterization of genetic hypertriacylglycerolaemia and selection of the appropriate diet and treatment.
High-fat diets affect the expression of nuclear retinoic acid receptor in rat liver
Authors: Bonilla S. , Redonnet A. , Noël-Suberville C. , Pallet V. , Garcin H. , Higueret P.
Published: October 2008

The purpose of this study was to differentiate between the effects of the amount and the type of dietary lipids on the expression of the retinoic acid receptor (RAR), but also the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) and the receptor of the 9-cisretinoic acid (retinoid X receptor (RXR)) in rat liver. Six groups of eight rats (5-weeks old) were fed during 4 weeks on the following diets: control 50 g vegetable oil/kg, high-fat diet 250 g vegetable oil/kg. These oils were either coconut oil (rich in saturated fatty acids) or olive oil (rich in monounsaturated fatty acids) or safflower oil (rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, mainly asn-6). The three high-fat diets induced a significant decrease of the maximal binding capacity of RAR and of the abundance of RARβ mRNA. Simultaneously, an increased expression of PPARα mRNA was observed while no significant difference on abundance of RXRα mRNA was observed. The mechanisms involved are probably multiple, but one hypothesis is that a modification of the equilibrium between the nuclear receptors, resulting from an increased expression of PPAR, induces a decreased expression of RAR in rat liver.
“The equal internal bisectors theorem, 1840-1940. … Many solutions or none?” A centenary account
Authors: M'Bride James A.
Published: October 2008

This paper contains (i) a short history of the geometrical theorem proposed in 1840 by Prof. Lehmus of Berlin to Jacob Steiner—“If BJY, CJZ are equal bisectors of the base angles of a triangle ABC, then AB equals AC,” (ii) a selection of some half-dozen solutions from the 50 or 60 that have been given, (iii) some discussion of the logical points raised, and (iv) a list of references to the extensive literature of the subject.
On Desargues Theorem
Authors: Wedderburn J. H. M.
Published: October 2008

The usual proofs of Desargues Theorem employ either metrical or analytical methods of projection from a point outside the plane; and if it is attempted to translate the analytical proof by the von Stuadt-Reye methods, the result is very long and there is trouble with coincidences. It is the object of this note to give a short geometrical proof which, in addition to the usual axioms of incidence and extension, uses only the assumption that a projectivity which leaves three points on a line unchanged also leaves all points on it unchanged. Degenerate cases are excluded as having no interest.
On a Chain of Circle Theorems
Authors: Brown L. M.
Published: October 2008

If P1, P2, P3, P4 are four points on a circle C, and P234 is the orthocentre of triangle P2 P3 P4, P134 the orthocentre of triangle P1 P3 P4 and so on, then the quadrilateral P234 P134 P124 P123 is congruent to the quadrilateral P1 P2 P3 P4. This theorem seems to be due to Steiner (Ges. Werke, 1, p. 128; see H. F. Baker, Introduction to Plane Geometry, 1943, p. 332) and has appeared frequently since in collections of riders on the elementary circle theorems.
Elementary methods in the theory of numbers
Authors: Scott S. A.
Published: October 2008

§ 1. The importance of proving inequalities of an essentially algebraic nature by “elementary” methods has been emphasised by Hardy (Prolegomena to a Chapter on Inequalities), and by Hardy, Littlewood and Polya (Inequalities). The object of this Note is to show how some of the results in the early stages of Number Theory can be obtained by making a minimum appeal to irrational numbers and the notion of a limit. We use the elementary notion of a logarithm to a base “a” > 1, and make no appeal to the exponential function. The Binomial Theorem is only used for a positive integer index. Our minimum appeal rests in the assumption that a bounded monotone sequence tends to a limit. We adopt throughout the usual notation. Finally, it need scarcely be added that the methods employed are not claimed to be new.
Inequalities for Positive Series
Authors: Walsh C. E.
Published: October 2008

Let f(x) ≡ (1 – x)b + b ab-1 x

ø (x) ≡ xc – c Βc-1 x

where b ≧ 1, c ≧ 1, 0 ≦ α ≦ 1, 0 ≦ β ≦ 1, and x is assumed to lie in the range (0, 1). By differentiation, or otherwise, it is easily shewn that f(x) and ø (x) have minima when x = 1 – α and when x = β, respectively. Hence

(1 – x)b + ab-1 x ≧ b ab-1 + (1 – b) ab

xc βc-1 x ≧ (1 – c)βc.
The equal internal bisectors theorem
Authors: Walsh C. E.
Published: October 2008

Much interest has always been aroused by this theorem, which asserts that a triangle is isosceles when two of the internal bisectors of its angles are equal. Recently McBride has given a proof, together with a selection from the numerous others which have been published. The following proof, based mainly on Euclid, Book III, differs from any I have come across, and establishes a slightly wider theorem.
A note on equilateral polygons
Authors: Russell A. D.
Published: October 2008

Theorem. If a circle cut all the sides (produced if necessary) of an equilateral polygon, the algebraic sum of the intercepts between the vertices and the circle is zero; i.e., if any side AB of the polygon be cut by the circle in P and Q, then Σ(AP + BQ) = 0, the intercepts being signed by fixing a positive direction round the contour of the polygon.
The summation of a slowly convergent series
Authors: Paterson S.
Published: October 2008

The series

in which r is zero or an integer is rapidly convergent if x is large but may be very slowly convergent if x is small. The object of this note is to derive an alternative series for S2r(x) which is rapidly convergent for small values of x.
Inequalities for solutions of linear differential equations a contribution to the theory of servomechanisms
Authors: Bückner Hans
Published: October 2008

Consider the nth order differential equation

where the coefficients cv are real constants and f is a real function continuous in the interval a≦ x ≦ b. The following theorem will be proved in §4:

If the characteristic equation of (I) has no purely imaginary roots, then a particular integral η (x) can always be found which satisfies the inequality

where C is a certain function of the cv only and M is the maximum of |f|. In particular we may take C = 1 if all roots of the characteristic equation are real.
The Riemann surfaces of a function and its fractional integral
Authors: Fabian William
Published: October 2008

1. Introduction. For a many-valued function f(z) of the complex variable z, a Riemann surface can be constructed such that, at any point z on the surface, the function has only one value; a function normally multiform, is therefore uniform on a certain Riemann surface.
Attachment behavior of infants exposed prenatally to alcohol: Mediating effects of infant affect and mother-infant interaction
Authors: O'Connor Mary J. , Sigman Marian , Kasari Connie
Published: October 2008

Children exposed to alcohol prenatally have been found to be at risk for developmental and behavioral problems; however, the relation between maternal alcohol consumption and other environmental factors has not been fully explored in the literature. In this study, subjects were 44 firstborn infants of women over 30 years of age. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesis that maternal alcohol use during pregnancy was related to infant negative affect. Furthermore, negative affect was assumed to influence the mother-infant relationship. It was hypothesized that mothers of infants exhibiting negative affect would be less positive in interaction and that insecure infant attachment behavior would be more prevalent in these infants. Results of model testing confirmed the hypothesis. In addition, maternal alcohol consumption following pregnancy was not found to influence significantly either maternal interaction or infant attachment behavior.
Recurrent affective disorder: Roots in developmental neurobiology and illness progression based on changes in gene expression
Authors: Post Robert M. , Weiss Susan R. B. , Leverich Gabriele S.
Published: October 2008

Electrophysiological kindling and behavioral sensitization to psychomotor stimulants and stress provide paradigms for understanding how repeated acute events can leave neurobiological residues in gene expression, accounting for the observed long-lasting alterations in behavioral responsivity. Kindling helps conceptualize how repeated electrical stimulation of the brain can progressively evoke increased behavioral and convulsive responsivity, leading to spontaneous seizures in the absence of exogenous stimulation following sufficient stimulations. As kindling unfolds, a complex spatiotemporal cascade of events occurs and includes the induction of immediate early genes (e.g.,c-fos) and late effector genes (including peptides and growth factors) possibly associated with the observed changes in brain microstructure (e.g., synapse formation, axonal and dendritic sprouting, apoptosis). Behavioral sensitization to psychomotor stimulants and stress has also been shown to induce related but different cascades of effects on immediate early and late effector gene expression. These may be associated with the observed long-lasting alterations in behavioral responsivity based on prior experience. If these types of alterations are put into a developmental context, this would provide a paradigm for understanding how early life events could exert profound and behaviorally relevant biochemical and microstructural effects on the central nervous system of the developing organism. The conceptual overview offered by the sensitization and kindling models suggests that environmentally triggered neurobiological processes do not form a single or static residue but, instead, engage processes related to developmental neurobiology and learning and memory and whose substrate is constantly evolving over an organism's lifetime.
Protest, Proletarians and Paternalists: Social Conflict in Rural Wiltshire, 1830–1850
Authors: Randall Adrian , Newman Edwina
Published: October 2008

Few historians have made a more significant contribution to our understanding of social relations in the English countryside in the early nineteenth century than Roger Wells. In a series of publications, he has consistently and persuasively argued that, in the years from 1790 to 1834, the labourers of southern England fell victim to the rise of a new aggressive agrarian capitalism which fractured and destroyed an older complex social system, replacing it with the naked power of class interest and ushering in a new class consciousness among the rural labourers which corresponded to that developing in the towns among the industrial labourers. This class consciousness was the product of an active resistance which sometimes, as in Swing, took the form of overt protest. Swing, Wells believes, marked the clear expression of class conflict in the countryside. The labourers' defeat was compounded by the New Poor Law, by which triumphant agrarian capitalism imposed its new sway. Placing ‘a priceless premium on employment’, the New Poor Law transferred power into the hands of the large capitalist farmers who speedily came to dominate the Union boards. Under its pressure, residual aspects of ‘class collaboration’ between the labourers and the superior social orders dissolved. The labourers were left to develop a defensive class culture which found echoes in Chartism but was seen more extensively in a ‘class war’ which took the form of disorder, arson, poaching, ‘rough’ behaviour or in a parodied or cynical deference. Persuasive as Wells'’ case is, however, one element of rural society is, by and large, missing from it, and indeed from many other studies of rural protest in the nineteenth century: namely the landlords and, in particular, the largest landlords. Wells sees their role from 1815 to 1830 as being essentially niggardly, continuing to demand social discipline but increasingly failing to play their old role of mediator between the poor and the rate paying classes. Their support for the New Poor Law ‘proved to be the final nail in the coffin of rural paternalism’.
From the 1676 Compton Census to the 1851 Census of Religious Worship: Religious Continuity or Discontinuity?
Authors: Crockett Alasdair , Snell K.D.M.
Published: October 2008

The two major censuses of religion that have most preoccupied historians and cultural geographers have, without question, been the Compton census of 1676 and theCensus of Religious Worshipof 1851. Over more than two centuries, probably indeed throughout British history, no other religious censuses were conducted to rival these two sources. The religious history of the intervening period has however, been researched by using other documentation, including the Evans list of 1715, the returns of Papists in 1767 and 1780, selected visitation returns, and the 1829 religious returns.
Low Pay, Underemployment and Multiple Occupations: Men's Work in the Inter-war Countryside
Authors: Hussey Stephen
Published: October 2008

On a tour of the Chiltern hills upon the eve of the Second World War the rural commentator Henry Massingham came across a Buckinghamshire farmer. As rural ‘characters’ are wont to do in Massingham's books, the farmer was able to recite a piece of rustic wisdom, on this occasion concerning the type of country worker that he always sought to employ, saying ‘A man as can't do more'n one thing baint good for anything’. As an employer of men the farmer simply meant that all his charges should be of sufficient calibre to prove themselves versatile within an industry that called on them to change tasks by the hour, day, week and season. In short, in the eyes of the farmer an adaptable labourer was an efficient labourer. However, there was another side to this equation, as the aphorism also held resonance with workmen across a wide range of trades and not simply agriculture. For it was the man who was able to vary his work patterns, switching between employment sources, going beyond his central occupation if necessary, that was best able to ride-out the vagaries of the rural labour market.
Reconstructing the Rural Community: Village Halls and the National Council of Social Service, 1919 to 1939
Authors: Burchardt Jeremy
Published: October 2008

Although rural leisure in the half-century before the First World War is an under-researched subject, its most striking features seem to have been (at least according to the existing historiography) that it was dominated by the gentry and clergy, and restricted both in scope and quantity. The robust rural popular culture of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries had come under increasing pressure from gentry and clerical attempts to reform and sanitise it, initially through evangelical organisations such as the Society for the Suppression of Vice in the 1790s, but by the 1840s on a broad front due to the middle-class vogue for promoting ‘rational recreation’. Partly as a result of this, many popular pastimes either fell into disuse or became emptied of much of their former spontaneity in the second half of the century, a commonly cited example of the former being cock-fighting and of the latter maypole-dancing. In their place came carefully marshalled dinners and prize-givings sponsored by the gentry and clergy. On these occasions the labourers (and sometimes their families too) were sat down at trestle tables in some appropriate venue, often the squire's park, and edifying speeches were made by representatives of local landed society. The role of the rural workforce in all this was entirely passive, except for one or two labourers who might be singled out to give a speech of gratitude to the presiding landowner for his beneficence, and the ritual ‘loyal toasts’.