bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The expression of steroidogenic enzyme genes in human vascular cells
Authors: Hatakeyama Haruhiko , Miyamori Isamu , Takeda Yoshiyu , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Mabuchi Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

Recently, we demonstrated that aldosterone is produced by human vascular cells, and that vascular aldosterone is linked to angiotensin II‐induced hypertrophy of vascular smooth muscle cells. We therefore examined whether genes encoding steroidogenic enzymes responsible for aldosterone biosynthesis from cholesterol are expressed in vascular cells. Using polymerase chain reaction after reverse transcription, type I and II 3β‐HSD (3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase), P‐450c21 (21‐hydroxylase), and P‐450c18 (18‐hydroxylase/oxidase) genes were found to be expressed both in endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells cultivated from human pulmonary arteries. However, P‐450scc (cholesterol side chain cleavage enzyme) and P‐45011β (11β‐hydroxylase) mRNAs could not be detected. These findings suggest that the enzyme system responsible for aldosterone production in human vascular cells is different from that found in the adrenal cortex and that vascular aldosterone may be synthesized from metabolic intermediates which originate from the circulation. Extra‐adrenal 3β‐HSD and steroid 21‐hydroxylase occur in a wide variety of tissues. Thus, human vascular cells can retain the ability to produce aldosterone by expressing the P‐450c 180 gene.
High‐level expression of active human plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI‐1) in E. coli
Authors: Zhou Aiwu , Pei Yi , Wu Haihong , Dong Xueyin , Xu Xianxiu
Published: July 2007

Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI‐1) is an important regulator of plasminogen activation, which inhibits both tissue‐type plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA). The DNA sequence encoding mature PAI‐1 protein was inserted into an inducible expression vector. This gene was highly expressed to produce a soluble active protein in E. coli cells. The amount of the recombinant protein was up to 20% of total cellular protein. By efficient purification with a yield of about 15‐20%, the recombinant protein could be purified to homogeneity with its specific activity up to 6.1×104 (uPA) IU/mg. Its inhibitory activity declined during incubation at 37°C with a half life of about 2 hr.
Nucleotide sequence of a cDNA clone (SUBT1) partly homologous to a human subtelomeric repeat sequence
Authors: Lagercrantz Jacob , Lagercrantz Svetlana
Published: July 2007

Telomeres contains short tandem repeats (TTAGGG)n that are usually several kilobases in size. DNA sequences located next to the repeats are called telomere‐associated or subtelomeric sequences. In this report we describe isolation and characterization of a new cDNA sequence isolated with a telomere specific, chromosome 17 genomic clone. No open reading frame of notable length could be detected. However comparison with sequences in the EMBL/Genbank revealed a 897 bp of close to perfect match, in the 3′ end with the centromeric end of a genomic clone containing subtelomeric repeat sequences. The potential function of the SUBT1 transcript remains to be elucidated.
The DNA binding affinity of rat liver nucleoproteins to the α1‐acid glycoprotein gene
Authors: Petrovic Miodrag , Grigorov Ilijana , Milosavljevic Tanja , Bogojevic Desanka
Published: July 2007

Transcriptional regulation and binding interactions between soluble nucleoproteins and the distal regulatory element (DRE) of the rat α1‐acid glycoprotein (α1‐AGP) gene were examined in the liver of rats during the acute‐phase response. Our results show that the elevation of the α1‐AGP gene transcription activity in acute phase liver relies basically on an increase in the binding‐affinity of the constitutive soluble nucleoproteins with molecular masses 35 and 45 kD, enhancing their capability to bind to the distal regulatory element (DRE) of α1‐AGP gene. On the basis of in vitro phosphorylation/dephosphorylation experiments we discuss that the role of these proteins during α1‐AGP transcription may be dependent on their behavior as phosphoproteins. The 35kD nucleoprotein that displayed an acute‐phase inducible affinity to bind DRE was indentified as a C/EBPβ isoform.
Nucleic acid‐8‐methoxypsoralen crosslinks bind monoclonal anti‐Z‐DNA antibody
Authors: Arif Zarina , Ali Rashid
Published: July 2007

Native calf thymus DNA and poly(dA‐dT) poly(dA‐dT) were photo‐adducted with 8‐methoxypsoralen and characterized by thermal denaturation (Tm) and hydroxyapatite column chromatography. The data demonstrated the formation of interstrand photo‐crosslinks. It has been shown by competition ELISA and band shift assays that crosslinked species of DNA‐8‐MOP and poly(dA‐dT)‐8‐MOP photoadducts recognize previously defined monoclonal anti‐Z‐DNA antibody (Z22). The results indicate the possible presence of Z‐ or Z‐like epitopes on nucleic acid‐8‐MOP crosslinks as Z22 antibody does not recognize other nucleic acid conformations. These studies also point out that conformational changes in DNA arising from the photo‐addition could induce antibodies to DNA or could cause autoimmune disease.
Ecdysteroid mediated muscle actin synthesis during the larval development of rice moth, Corcyra cephalonica
Authors: Shanavas A. , Nayak Bishnu Prasad , Dutta‐Gupta Aparna
Published: July 2007

Protein fractions from the whole body homogenates were separated on SDS‐PAGE and the muscle actin band was identified by western blotting, using commercial antibody raised against chick back muscle actin (Sigma Chemical Co., USA). The antibody was found to be specific for muscle actin, as it did not cross react with cytoplasmic actin of the nervous system. The molecular weight of the muscle actin in Corcyra was found to be around 46 kDa. The concentration of actin was found to be more or less the same in penultimate and early‐last instar larvae and it increased during mid and late‐last instar development. Thereafter, it has dropped to its minimum during the pupal stage. But, once again it increased to its maximum in adults. Thorax‐ligation in early and late‐last instar larvae resulted in decreased synthesis of muscle actin and this was more pronounced after 48 h of ligation. Injection of 20‐hydroxyecdysone to insects which were thorax‐ligated for 24 and 48 h was found to significantly increase the concentration of actin, suggesting that the ecdysteroids mediate the muscle actin synthesis during the larval development of Corcyra.
Isolation and properties of anionic protease inhibitors from buckwheat seeds
Authors: Dunaevsky Y. E. , Pavlukova E. B. , Belozersky M. A.
Published: July 2007

Three protease inhibitors (BWI‐1, BWI‐2 and BWI‐4) from buckwheat seeds were purified to homogeneity and characterized. Their molecular masses were 7.7‐9.2 kDa according to gel‐filtration and mass spectrometry. Amino acid analysis revealed a high content of glutamic acid and valine and a low content of isoleucine, aromatic and sulfur‐containing amino acids. Data illustrating the temperature and the pH stability of the inhibitors are presented. Each of the inhibitors formed a inhibitor complex with trypsin in a molar ratio 1:1 and contained an Arg residue at the reactive site. In addition to trypsin, BWI‐1 and BWI‐2 inhibited chymotrypsin, however, less effectively. None of the isolated inhibitors suppressed activity of papain, leukocyte elastase, pepsin and subtilisin.
Activation of grass carp liver alcohol dehydrogenase by limited proteolysis
Authors: Lau King‐kwan , Fong Wing‐ping
Published: July 2007

Limited proteolysis of grass carp alcohol dehydrogenase by alkaline protease or subtilisin BPN′ at 30°C for 6 hr generated a nicked species that was catalytically active. Electrophoresis on a denaturing SDS‐PAGE showed that the 40 kDa subunit of the intact enzyme was cleaved to produce subunits of 27 and 13 kDa, which remained tightly associated with each other under native condition. Such a proteolytically nicked form was catalytically more active than the original intact form of the enzyme. The Vmax value toward the oxidation of ethanol at pH 10 increased by 7.8 fold whereas the Km value also exhibited a 140 fold increase. On the other hand, when the same protease treatment was applied to horse liver alcohol dehydrogenase, no activation nor any specific cleavage can be observed.
Isolation of toxin TsTX‐VI from Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom. Effects on the release of neurotransmitters from synaptosomes
Authors: Sampaio Suely V. , Coutinho‐Netto Joaquim , Arantes Eliane C. , Marangoni Sergio , Oliveira Benedito , Giglio José R.
Published: July 2007

A detailed procedure for the purification of Tityustoxin‐VI, TxTX‐VI, from Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom is described. For comparative purposes, a second toxin, CM‐VI, obtained from the same fractionation procedure, was analyzed in parallel. Typical biochemical parameters, such as electrophoretic migration, mol. weight, amino acid composition and N‐terminal sequence (first 42 amino acid residues out of a total of approx. 60) were determined for both. Our data showed that CM‐VI is identical or extremely homologous to γ‐toxin (TsTX‐I), the highly toxic major toxin from T. serrulatus venom. TsTX‐VI was less toxic, although still effective at inducing an allergic reaction, lacrymation and contraction of the hind legs of mice. Both toxins produced a dose dependent release of the neurotransmitters glutamic acid and gamma aminobutyric acid from rat brain synaptosomes, this effect being blocked by tetrodotoxin.
Binding between Pseudomonas aeruginosa adhesins and human salivary, tracheobronchial and nasopharyngeal mucins
Authors: Reddy Molakala S.
Published: July 2007

Endogenous aspiration of nasooropharyngeal secretions is a major source of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to lungs. To understand the mechanism of binding between P. aeruginosa and nasooropharyngeal secretions, we have utilized an overlay binding assay employing P. aeruginosa nonpilus protein adhesins (18 kDa and 15 kDa) and mucins from human saliva, tracheobronchial and nasopharyngeal secretions. Nasopharyngeal mucin bound to both the 18 kDa and 15 kDa adhesins. A high molecular weight salivary mucin and tracheobronchial mucin bound only to the 18 kDa adhesin. On the other hand, asialonasopharyngeal and asialotracheobronchial mucins did not bind to either of the adhesins. Binding of nasopharyngeal mucin to the 18 kDa and 15 kDa was not inhibitable by glycoproteins, bovine submaxillary mucins and sialic acid. Further, a low molecular weight salivary mucin which contains sialylated oligosacchardies also did not bind to either of the adhesins. Collectively, the results suggest that binding between P. aeruginosa and mucins may involve specific receptors and adhesins.
Age‐related analysis of EcoRI generated satellite DNA‐containing chromatin of rat liver
Authors: Chaurasia Pratima , Mukherjee Shibani , Thakur M. K.
Published: July 2007

EcoRI digestion of nuclei and their subsequent lysis with EDTA solubilizes 45% and 36% of chromatin DNA from the liver of young (18±2 weeks) and old (100±5 weeks) rats, respectively. After hybridization with 185 bp rat satellite I DNA, these soluble fractions are found to be enriched in specific DNA sequences such as satellite DNA. Besides regular repeat pattern, a major portion of the satellite chromatin forms higher order organization. Digestion kinetics confirms condensation of satellite DNA‐containing chromatin similar to that of bulk chromatin in old age. Furthermore, densitometric scanning of the slot‐blot of soluble chromatin fractions reveals loss of satellite DNA in the old. However, an increase in the linker histone H1 and its subfraction H10 in the satellite DNA‐enriched fraction of chromatin from old rats suggests greater compaction. These results provide the first evidence that the satellite DNA‐containing chromatin differs in the liver of young and old rats.
Electron paramagnetic resonance studies of proteins in ozone‐treated erythrocyte membranes
Authors: Wróbel Anna , Jezierski Adam , Gomułkiewicz Jan
Published: July 2007

The sulfhydryl group specific spin labels have been used to study the membrane proteins in the bovine and human erythrocyte membranes treated with ozone. The ratio hw/hs, determined from the respective peak amplitudes of the resulting EPR spectra of 3‐maleimido‐1‐oxyl‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethylpyrrolidine bound to the ozone treated membranes, was shown to be elevated following an increased ozone concentration. The ratio of the central to high‐field peak amplitude h0 / h‐1, a measure of the rotational correlation time, determined from EPR spectra of ozonized membranes covalently labeled with 4‐(iodoacetamido)‐l‐oxyl‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethylpyrrolidine was shown to be diminished. The changes in the erythrocyte membranes treated with ozone, observed for both spin labels, indicate a dose dependent increase in the mobility of membrane proteins.
Effect of sevin on kinetic parameters of camel retina acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Kamal Mohammad Amjad
Published: July 2007

The present investigation addresses the effect of sevin (insecticide) on kinetic parameters of camel retina membrane‐bound acetylcholinesterase (AChE, EC 3.1.1.7). The Michaelis‐Menten constant (Ks) for the hydrolysis of acetylthiocholine iodide (ASCh) by AChE was 0.072 mM in the control system, a value decreased by 38‐55% in the sevin treated systems. The Vmax was 0.967 μmole/min/mg protein for the control system while it was decreased by 50‐84% in the sevin treated systems. The Lineweaver‐Burk plot, Dixon plot, and their secondary replots indicated that the nature of the inhibition was of the linear mixed type, i.e. uncompetitive and noncompetitive. The values of Ki(slope) and KI(intercept) were estimated as 6.194 and 2.811 μM, respectively. The turnover number (Kcat) and specificity constant (Ksp) were 74.65 min‐1 and 10.37×105 (M. min)‐1 in the control system respectively, while the values for both parameters were significantly decreased in the sevin treated systems.
Preincubation of thymocytes with 1‐(5‐isoquinolinesulfonyl)‐2‐methylpiperazine dihydrochloride (H‐7) induces apoptosis in non‐stimulated thymocytes
Authors: Sakurai Yoshiaki , Hirata Chihiro , Onishi Yoshiaki , Tanimoto Yutaka , Yamada Takeshi , Kizaki Harutoshi
Published: July 2007

1‐(5‐Isoquinolinesulfonyl)‐2‐methylpiperazine hydrochloride (H‐7), an inhibitor of protein kinases, has been shown to inhibit the thymocyte apoptosis induced by various apoptogenic agents. In the present study, when mouse thymocytes were pretreated with H‐7, washed, and cultured for an additional time, apoptosis was induced depending on the preincubation time and the dose of H‐7. The protein kinase C activity in the H‐7‐pretreated and ‐washed cells was not altered, suggesting that an alteration of a certain PKC isoform is related to both the triggering and the progression of apoptosis.
Thermal denaturation of glutathione reductase from cyanobacterium Spirulina maxima
Authors: Rojo‐Domínguez Arturo , Hernández‐Arana Andrés , Mendoza‐Hernández Guillermo , Rendón Juan L.
Published: July 2007

The thermal unfolding of glutathione reductase (NAD[P]H:GSSG oxidoreductase EC 1.6.4.2.) from cyanobactefium Spirulina maxima was monitored by differential scanning calorimetry and circular dichroism at neutral pH. Covalent cross‐linking of enzyme at different temperatures revealed dimer as the species undergoing the thermal transition. A single endotherm was observed, but its thermodynamic parameters showed dependence on the scan rate. In the transition zone, aggregation of the dimeric species was observed. Analysis of the enzyme heated at 80°C revealed that the resultant species retained a high content of secondary structure. The addition of low concentrations of guanidinium hydrochlofide resulted in a full cooperative thermal transition. A model in which the dimeric protein undergoes a partial unfolding in a kinetically controlled fashion is proposed, such that the experimental value of ΔHcal results from the simultaneous occurrence of endothermic and exothermic events.
Effect of dihydralazine on the fluidity of erythrocyte membranes
Authors: Maliszewska‐Mazur Małgorzata , Sikorski Aleksander F. , Jezierski Adam
Published: July 2007

Dihydralazine, a drug used in the treatment of chronic hypertension was found to affect the mobility of fatty acid hydrocarbon chains followed by spin‐labelling technique with the use of 5‐, 12‐ and 16‐doxylstearate. The effect of this drug on the membrane bilayer properties may result either from the reduction of the number of double bonds in fatty acid hydrocarbon chains, as was shown by the changes of d1/d and order parameters in the region of C(12) or from direct interactions of the drug with the polar head group region of the phospholipids as was shown by changes in the distance between nitroxyl groups without changes of the order parameter in the region of C(5).
A protease from the marine sponge Callyspongia schulzi
Authors: Mebs Dietrich , Benesch Stefan , König Birgit , Yamakawa Yoshio , Omori‐Satoh Tamotsu
Published: July 2007

Aqueous extracts of 25 marine sponge species (from coral reefs of Papua New Guinea) were screened for proteolytic activity. Only one sponge, Callyspongia schulzi, showed remarkable activity. A protease hydrolyzing casein as well as the synthetic substrate α‐N‐benzoyl‐L‐arginine ethyl ester was isolated from the sponge extract by gel filtration, ion‐exchange and HPLC absorption chromatography. The enzyme was homogenous in SDS‐PAGE exhibiting an apparent molecular weight of 80 kDa. Its pH optimum was in the range of 9‐11, it was remarkably heat‐stable and was not inhibited by phenylmethane sulfonylfluoride, soybean trypsin inhibitor, aprotinin or α1‐antitrypsin, but by EDTA and 1,10‐phenanthroline suggesting properties of a metalloprotease. The protease hydrolyzed the oxidized insulin B‐chain between Arg22‐Gly23 and Lys29‐Ala30, similar to trypsin.
The cross‐linking by o‐phthalaldehyde of two amino acid residues at the active site of 6‐phosphogluconate dehydrogenase
Authors: Giovannini P. Paolo , Rippa Mario , Dallocchio Franco , Tetaud Manuel , Barrett Michael P. , Hanau Stefania
Published: July 2007

o‐phthalaldehyde inactivates homodimeric, NADP+ dependent, 6‐phosphogluconate dehydrogenase from sheep liver, upon formation of a single isoindole derivative per enzyme subunit. This indicates that the thiol group of a cysteine residue or the ε‐amino group of a lysine residue located within 3 Å and crosslinked by the reagent is essenthial for catalysis. Fluorescence analyses of the modified enzyme suggest that the isoindole derivative forms at the binding site of the nicotinamide moiety of NADP+. The enzymes from Trypanosoma brucei and Lactococcus lactis are also inactivated suggesting a similar three‐dimensional structure in this domain. The isoindole derivative does not form with two mutants of the T. brucei enzyme (Lys185His and Lys185Leu), this allowing to identify not only the lysine but also the cysteine involved in the cross‐linking. The formation of the isoindole derivative inactivates not only the oxidative decarboxylation, but also two partial reactions catalysed by the enzyme.
Effects of hydrostatic pressure on the activity of rat ribosome and cell‐free translation system
Authors: Lu Biao , Li Qing , Liu Wang‐Yi , Ruan Kang‐cheng
Published: July 2007

The effects of high hydrostatic pressure on the protein synthesis activity of rat liver ribosome and the reconstructed cell‐free translation system were studied. The results indicated that the activity of the ribosome decreased with the increase in applied pressure and the activity was totally lost as pressure went up to 2,400 bar, but there was a plateau approximately from 300 to 1,200 bar where the activity only had a minor change. The activity of the cell‐free translation system seems to be more sensitive to pressure. Its activity was entirely lost when the pressure was up to 900 bar. The activity of rat ribosome and the cell‐free translation system treated by pressure below 900 bar could be almost completely restored by incubation after releasing the pressure, but could be partially restored at higher pressure.
Alteration of intracellular free calcium and acylphosphatase levels in differentiating SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Pieri A. , Liguri G. , Ceechi C. , Degl'Innocenti D. , Nassi P. , Ramponi G.
Published: July 2007

Levels of acylphosphatase isoenzymes and free intracellular calcium have been investigated in cultured SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells under stimulation with all‐trans retinoic acid and phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate. Under these conditions morphological and functional characteristics demonstrated the differentiation of SH‐SY5Y cells towards neuronal phenotype. Retinoic acid treatment caused a progressive and synchronous increase of the organ common‐type acylphosphatase and of free intracellular calcium but not of the muscle‐type acylphosphatase. Phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate treatment gave rise to a peak of the muscle‐type acylphosphatase levels during the early differentiation stage whereas organ common‐type isoenzyme and free calcium levels show a pattern similar to that observed in retinoic acid‐treated cells. These evidences indicate that the two acylphosphatase isoenzymes play different roles in SH‐SY5Y differentiation and that during this process the expression of organ common‐type acylphosphatase increases in a synchronous way with intracellular free calcium concentration.
Begriffsgeschichte: between the Scylla of Conceptual and the Charybdis of Institutional History of Economics
Authors: Klaes Matthias
Published: July 2007

According to a commonly held view, doctrinal history formed a largely uncontested part of the discipline of economics in the early years of the twentieth century. Economists like Edwin Cannan, Jacob Viner, and Joseph A. Schumpeter were at the same time respected economists and historians of economics. Contemporary historians of economics, on the other hand, tend to feel defensive about their field of study. The questions of why, how, and in which discipline one should pursue the history of economics is hotly debated among practitioners, while the number of universities and curricula still offering history courses is in steady decline. This is matched by a corresponding attitude among orthodox economists aptly summarized by Frank H. Hahn (1992, p. 165): “What the dead had to say, when of value, has long since been absorbed, and when we need to say it again we can generally say it much better.”
Rotating Spheres: Gendered Commemorative Practice at the 1903 Jan Hus Memorial Festival in Prague
Authors: Paces Cynthia
Published: July 2007

It will be a memorable day for every Czech.

In 1903, former mayor Dr Jan Podlipný used these words to petition the Prague City Council to finance a nationalist festival dedicated to the memory of Jan Hus. Arguing for a celebration devoted to the fifteenth-century priest and church reformer who had become a nationalist icon in the nineteenth century, Podlipný emphasized the “memorable” quality of the planned event.2Indeed, the purpose of the celebration was to create memory on several levels. The festival itself would gather Czechs in great numbers, creating a memory of a shared community, which would bolster the Czech nationalist spirit for future campaigns. The festival's purpose was to lay a cornerstone to a Jan Hus Memorial, a monument that would etch a permanent memory of Jan Hus into Prague's landscape. Last, by publicly and collectively commemorating Hus, Czech nationalists would create a shared memory of the nation's past.
Expression and Characterization of Chicken Muscle Ecto‐ATPase in Mammalian COS Cells
Authors: Kirley Terence L. , Gerber Lamar K. , Smith Thomas M.
Published: July 2007

Chicken muscle ecto‐ATPase has unusual enzyme kinetics and properties not found in many other E‐type ATPases. To determine whether the unique properties of the chicken ecto‐ATPase are inherent in the protein sequence and not mediated by some unique property of the chicken system, we have spliced together two partial cDNAs encoding the ecto‐ATPase. The enzymatic properties of the COS (green monkey kidney)cell‐expressed protein are indistinguishable from the purified chicken gizzard ecto‐ATPase, including a 2‐ to 3‐fold stimulation of membrane‐bound activity by crosslinking and lectins, properties not shared by most other E‐type ATPases. The expressed enzyme is specific for nucleotide triphosphates (ATPase:ADPase hydrolysis ratio of 26:1) and is inhibited by Cibacron Blue (IC 10 mu M). The active, expressed enzyme = 50 can be affinity‐purified with Cibacron Blue, is relatively resistant to deglycosylation, and is less stable than other E‐type ATPases. Expression in the presence of tunicamycin resulted in an inactive, unfolded enzyme.
Modeling and simulation of a two combustion chambers liquid propellant engine
Authors: Karimi Hassan , Mohammadi Rafat
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose is to develop and apply a systematic simulation approach for dynamic analysis in order to study a two combustion chambers liquid propellant engine.

Design/methodology/approach

The logic of the simulation method and the software is based on following the liquids. The implicit nonlinear algebraic equations are solved using a number of nested Newton‐Raphson loops, and the nonlinear and time varying differential equations are solved using a first‐order Euler technique.

Findings

It is found that the developed simulation code predicts the steady‐state values with errors under 5 percent, and this code has the capability to be used in studying the effect of various elements and subsystems parameters on the forecasting the performance and operation of the engine system.

Research limitations/implications

At present, the research is limited to a specific liquid propellant engine. Development of a general purpose software package for simulation of liquid propellant engines, based on the developed simulation algorithm, is subject of future research.

Practical implications

The major outcome of this research is that verifies liquid engine simulation code may be used as a suitable tool to optimize the engine.

Originality/value

This is the first paper in the area of a two combustion chambers engine simulation and dynamic analysis that is based on the application of an existing simulation algorithm.
Talking it out
Authors: Crawley Rosemary
Published: July 2007

Purpose

In this article, I seek to show how invocations of political correctness still work in nuanced ways to close down debates and trivialise issues, and effectively slow down progress towards achieving an anti‐racist society. I also begin to identify the typologies of the myriad ways in which it presents.

Design/methodology/approach

It is an autobiographical account, with evidence gleaned from personal experiences as an equalities trainer and from discussions arising as part of supporting and mentoring other trainers.

Findings

Political correctness has not gone away: it is still invoked by politicians, the media and individuals within organisations to attack anti‐racism and anti‐racist learning.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by its autobiographical and inevitably subjective nature. However, the standpoints of resistance that I have chosen to discuss are those that have arisen frequently and repeatedly and from across a range of public sector and quasi‐public sector organisations.

Practical implications

Despite its limitations, the article clearly demonstrates that political correctness remains an important topic for academic and practitioner debate, and it also identifies the need for further work in developing training to combat its destructiveness.

Originality/value

An original and firsthand account of anti‐racist training from the front line is provided. Its value lies in its experiential origins and its potential as a basis for further work.
Mechanical and durability behaviour of growing concrete structures
Authors: Salomoni Valentina A. , Mazzucco Gianluca , Majorana Carmelo E.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper seeks to analyse 3D growing concrete structures taking into account the phenomenon of body accretion, necessary for the simulation of the construction sequence, and carbon dioxide attack.

Design/methodology/approach

A typical 3D segmental bridge made of precast concrete is studied through a fully coupled thermo‐hygro‐mechanical F.E. model. The durability of the bridge is evaluated and carbonation effects are considered. Creep, relaxation and shrinkage effects are included according to the theory developed in the 1970s by Bažant for concretes and geomaterials; the fluid phases are considered as a unique mixture which interacts with a solid phase. The porous material is modelled using n Maxwell elements in parallel (Maxwell‐chain model).

Findings

First, calibration analyses are developed to check the VISCO3D model capabilities for predicting carbonation phenomena within concrete and the full 3D structure is modelled to further assess the durability of the bridge under severe conditions of CO2 attack.

Originality/value

The adopted numerical model accounts for the strong coupling mechanisms of CO2 diffusion in the gas phase, moisture and heat transfer, CaCO3 formation and the availability of Ca(OH)2 in the pore solution due to its transport by water movement. Additionally, the phenomenon of a sequential construction is studied and numerically reproduced by a sequence of “births” for the 3D finite elements discretizing the bridge. The fully coupled model is here extended to 3D problems for accreting bodies (as segmental bridges) in order to gather the effects of multi‐dimensional attacks of carbon dioxide for such structures.
Internal and external logistics information technologies
Authors: Savitskie Katrina
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This research seeks to investigate logistics information technology (LIT) from an international perspective. The initial focus determines the viability of categorizing LIT into two constructs – internal and external LIT. The second focus examines the relationships between internal and external LIT and customer‐related performance capabilities. The objective is to provide a mechanism for managers to use when they need to provide justification for LIT expenditures.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the literature, along with survey data provided by international supply chain executives, was used to develop a research concept regarding LIT and its impact on customer‐related performance capabilities.

Findings

The results revealed that it is logical to separate LIT into two dimensions and that those individual dimensions do have an impact on specified performance capabilities. Therefore, managers wishing to target specific performance capabilities with LIT may do so even within an international setting.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size of 34 was not ideal and limits the possible generalizations from this study, but the results provide a basis for future research. Implications include support for the viability of two‐dimension LIT approach and the connection between LIT and performance capabilities that managers can use to justify LIT expenditures.

Originality/value

This paper answers the call for more internationally‐based supply chain research along with the need for justification regarding LIT investment.
Customisation – moving customers away from the dull conformity of brand loyalty
Authors: Miranda Mario J. , Kónya László
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine consumers' perception of the difference between customised/modified products and brand stereotypes, and the extent of brand's impact on consumers' decisions to customise their purchases. Current literature is rife about the shift from the dominance of brands in directing consumer choice to the contemporary ascendancy of individualism reflected in customising products.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire containing 23 variables relating to brand perception and customisation was administered to more than 500 random shoppers leaving two shopping centres in an Australian city during a two‐week period. Results were used to construct two econometric models aimed at predicting consumers' perception of the difference between customised/modified and brand stereotypes and the extent that consumers' decisions to customise their purchases were affected by brand names.

Findings

The results show that factors, other than the motive of and the satisfaction from customising the product, with a significant influence on the perceived difference between customised items and brand stereotypes, have little in common with factors that impel consumers to customise/modify their purchases based on the imagery of brands. A significant reason why consumers self‐engage with composing their product purchases is to satisfy their desire for quality and genuinely believe that their compositions are appreciably different from brand stereotypes thus vindicating the theory of self‐congruency. Indeed, there is evidence that the extent brands influence customers to tailor their purchases, depend on the stores from which consumers make their purchases.

Research limitations/implications

The research did not ask questions on the extent of influence of brands on purchase behaviour of made‐to‐order products in relation to every specific durable product tested. These items conceivably have different buying protocols and therefore future research may want to consider a larger sample size with dedicated respondents for each type of item that was modified or customised. Meaningful comparisons can then be made across each of these items to identify the intrinsic and extrinsic product appeals of customised items that consumers may find more compelling than the pull of established stereotypes of brands.

Practical implications

Brand owners might consider setting up “virtual” stores that offer templates to adjust their stereotypes in order to accommodate specific styles and perspectives of customers.

Originality/value

In an era when individualism is getting increasing currency, this study aims to introduce service providers in the retail industry to how much of a role brands play in influencing the specifications of adjusted and customised products.
The impact of the behavioural environment on office productivity
Authors: Haynes Barry P.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the role the behavioural environment plays in office productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the literature from the occupier perspective. This approach enables a greater appreciation of the social context of offices. The review establishes the need to link work process with the office environment. It identifies the need to understand how occupiers make sense of space through personalisation. The balance between the positive interactions in the office and negative distractions are explored.

Findings

The review of the literature reveals that by adopting the occupier perspective potential tensions can be identified between individual, private and team‐based collaborative work areas. These tensions can have an impact on the office occupier's productivity.

Originality/value

This paper establishes that to ensure office environments are designed for optimum productivity; consideration needs to be given to the role of the behavioural environment. Office environments need to be designed to enhance collaboration, whilst at the same time ensure individual private work is not compromised.
The effect of antecedent fatiguing activity on the relationship between perceived exertion and physiological activity during a constant load exercise task
Authors: Eston Roger , Faulkner James , St Clair Gibson Alan , Noakes Tim , Parfitt Gaynor
Published: July 2007

This study assessed the relationship between the rate of change of the rating of perceived exertion (RPE), physiological activity, and time to volitional exhaustion. After completing a graded exercise test, 10 participants cycled at a constant load equating to 75% of peak oxygen uptake (V̇ O2peak) to exhaustion. Participants performed two further constant load exercise tests at 75%V̇ O2peak in a fresh state condition within the next 7 days. The RPE was regressed against time and percentage of the time (%time) to volitional exhaustion in both conditions. Despite a lower respiratory exchange ratio (RER) and higher heart rate at the start of the exercise bout in the fatigued condition, there were no differences in RPE at the onset or completion of exercise. As expected, the rate of increase in RPE was greater in the fatigued condition, but there were no differences when expressed against %time. Results suggest that RPE is set at the start of exercise using a scalar internal timing mechanism, which regulates RPE by altering the gain of the relationship with physiological parameters such as heart rate and RER when these are altered by previous fatiguing exercise.
Parasiticidal effect of δ‐aminolevulinic acid‐based photodynamic therapy for cutaneous leishmaniasis is indirect and mediated through the killing of the host cells
Authors: Akilov Oleg E. , Kosaka Sachiko , O’Riordan Katie , Hasan Tayyaba
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  Several clinical reports have shown promising, but not optimal, results from photodynamic therapy with δ‐aminolevulinic acid‐derived protoporphyrin IX, termed ALA‐PDT, as a treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Therefore, understanding the basis of the phototoxic response of Leishmania parasites to ALA‐PDT may be critical for optimization. We report here both in vitro and in vivo mechanistic studies of ALA‐PDT against CL. Following in vitro co‐incubation of Leishmania major with 0.1 μm ALA, the PpIX concentration remained at the basal level, whereas after co‐incubation with 0.1 μm exogenous PpIX, the PpIX level was 100‐fold higher. No differences in ALA‐derived PpIX levels were detected between Leishmania‐infected and non‐infected J774.2 cells, and PDT did not demonstrate any parasiticidal effects on amastigotes. In contrast, in vivo topical ALA‐PDT, performed on a murine CL model, resulted in significant reductions of the parasite loads and vigorous tissue destruction. After ALA‐PDT, a dramatically decreased percentage of macrophages and increased levels of interleukin‐6 were observed in the infected skin. The clinical outcome observed with ALA‐PDT is likely the result of unspecific tissue destruction accompanied by depopulation of macrophages rather than direct killing of parasites.
Comparison of the Sensitivities of Noroviruses and Feline Calicivirus to Chemical Disinfection under Field-Like Conditions
Authors: Poschetto Lorenza Ferrero , Ike Anthony , Papp Tibor , Mohn Ulrich , Böhm Reinhard , Marschang Rachel E.
Published: July 2007

Noroviruses (NV), in the family
Caliciviridae
, are an important cause of gastroenteritis in humans worldwide. Measures for prevention and control of NV dissemination are therefore necessary to ensure public safety. The abilities of an organic acid (Venno Vet 1 Super), an aldehyde (Venno FF Super), a halogen compound (sodium hypochlorite solution), and a peroxide (Oxystrong FG) to inactivate feline calicivirus (FCV), a cultivable virus surrogate for NV, were studied. Molecular protocols were then used for the comparative evaluation of disinfectant efficacies against NV and FCV, which were tested by reproducing NV field conditions, using human fecal material as a protein load. Generally, disinfectant efficacy was strongly reduced by the organic impurities (feces) used during tests. All disinfectants, except the aldehyde, were effective on FCV, as measured by cell culture and reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR), with inactivation levels of ≥99.9%. The glutaraldehyde-based compound failed to adequately inactivate FCV according to RT-PCR results, although the infectivity in cell culture was completely abolished. Similar inactivation levels were achieved with NV, but generally NV appeared more resistant than FCV, and consequently, the suitability of FCV as a model for NV should be considered with caution. In conclusion, according to RT-PCR results, 5% Venno Vet 1 Super, 1% Oxystrong FG, and not less than 2% Venno FF Super, with a contact time of 1 h, and 1% sodium hypochlorite, with 6,000 ppm of free chlorine and a contact time of 15 min, are required for safe disinfection when a calicivirus-related outbreak is suspected.
Metabolite Profiles of Lactic Acid Bacteria in Grass Silage
Authors: Broberg Anders , Jacobsson Karin , Ström Katrin , Schnürer Johan
Published: July 2007

The metabolite production of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) on silage was investigated. The aim was to compare the production of antifungal metabolites in silage with the production in liquid cultures previously studied in our laboratory. The following metabolites were found to be present at elevated concentrations in silos inoculated with LAB strains: 3-hydroxydecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-4-methylpentanoic acid, benzoic acid, catechol, hydrocinnamic acid, salicylic acid, 3-phenyllactic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, (trans, trans)-3,4-dihydroxycyclohexane-1-carboxylic acid,p-hydrocoumaric acid, vanillic acid, azelaic acid, hydroferulic acid,p-coumaric acid, hydrocaffeic acid, ferulic acid, and caffeic acid. Among these metabolites, the antifungal compounds 3-phenyllactic acid and 3-hydroxydecanoic acid were previously isolated in our laboratory from liquid cultures of the same LAB strains by bioassay-guided fractionation. It was concluded that other metabolites, e.g.,p-hydrocoumaric acid, hydroferulic acid, andp-coumaric acid, were released from the grass by the added LAB strains. The antifungal activities of the identified metabolites in 100 mM lactic acid were investigated. The MICs againstPichia anomala, Penicillium roqueforti, andAspergillus fumigatuswere determined, and 3-hydroxydecanoic acid showed the lowest MIC (0.1 mg ml−1for two of the three test organisms).
Negative Regulation of the EcoRI Restriction Enzyme Gene Is Associated with Intragenic Reverse Promoters
Authors: Liu Yaoping , Kobayashi Ichizo
Published: July 2007

Type II restriction-modification systems are expected to possess mechanisms for tight regulation of their expression to suppress the potential of lethal attack on their host bacteria when they establish and maintain themselves within them. Although the EcoRI restriction enzyme has been well characterized, regulation of its expression is still poorly understood. In this study, mutational analysis with
lacZ
gene fusion and primer extension assay identified a promoter for the transcription of the
ecoRIR
gene. Further analyses revealed that an intragenic region containing two overlapping reverse promoter-like elements acted as a negative regulator for
ecoRIR
gene expression. The activity of these putative reverse promoters was verified by transcriptional gene fusion, primer extension and in vitro transcription. Mutations in these reverse promoters resulted in increased gene expression in both translational and transcriptional gene fusions. An RNase protection assay revealed that the transcript level of the wild type relative to that of the reverse promoter mutant at the downstream regions was much lower than the level at the upstream regions. This suggests that these reverse promoter-like elements affect their downstream transcript level. The possible mechanisms of this kind of negative regulation, in addition to their possible biological roles, are discussed.
Nuclear Families and Nuclear Risks: The Effects of Gender, Geography, and Progeny on Attitudes toward a Nuclear Waste Facility*
Authors: Freudenburg William R. , Davidson Debra J.
Published: July 2007

Abstract  Studies of reactions to nuclear facilities have found consistent male/female differences, but the underlying reasons have never been well‐clarified. The most common expectations involve traditional roles—with men focusing more on economic concerns and with women (especially mothers) being more concerned about family safety/health. Still, with changing gender roles, women are becoming economic providers as well as caregivers; past studies have not actually examined the interaction of employment and gender effects. This study examines a rural county where issues of risk and economic interest were both salient—a county where a nuclear waste site had been proposed but where an existing nuclear power plant was a major employer. Overall, concern levels expressed by employed mothers did not differ significantly from those in the rest of the sample, but further analyses revealed a sharp contrast: In the half of the county that was home to the existing nuclear power plant, where economic concerns could be expected to be more salient, over 90 percent of the employed mothers expressed low levels of concern; in the other half of the county, closer to the potential risks of the proposed nuclear waste site, almost 90 percent of the employed mothers expressed high levels of concern. No such differences are found for other sociodemographic groups. This county may or may not be unique; what the findings show is that the interplay of geography, gender roles and risks should receive more attention in other contexts, as well.
Some practical aspects of forecasting in organizations
Authors: Jenkins Gwilym M.
Published: July 2007

This paper presents the writer's experience, over a period of 25 years, in analysing organizational systems and, in particular, concentrates on the overall forecasting activity. The paper first looks at the relationship between forecasting and decision taking–with emphasis on the fact that forecasting is a means to aid decision taking and not an end in itself. It states that there are many types of forecasting problems, each requiring different methods of treatment. The paper then discusses attitudes which are emerging about the relative advantages of different forecasting techniques. It suggests a model building process which requires‘experience’and‘craftsmanship’, extensive practical application, frequent interaction between theory and practice and a methodology that eventually leads to models that contain no detectable inadequacies. Furthermore, it argues that although models which forecast a time series from its past history have a very important role to play, for effective policy making it is necessary to augment the model by introducing policy variables, again in a systematic not an ‘ad hoc’ manner. Finally, the paper discusses how forecasting systems can be introduced into the management process in the first place and how they should be monitored and updated when found wanting.
Perspectives on forecasting research in accounting and finance
Authors: Brown L. D. , Griffin P. A.
Published: July 2007

This paper offers some perspectives on forecasting research in accounting and finance. It is maintained that many common areas of forecasting research exist. Yet, most research has focused upon a particular (Box‐Jenkins) technique and a particular (reported earnings) variable, virtually neglecting numerous other relevant forecasting research topics. This symposium issue includes papers which address several of these neglected research topics. The eight papers constituting the issue are classified into three categories: (1) univariate time‐series modelling; (2) multivariate time‐series modelling; and (3) comparison of experts' forecasts with those of statistical models. Following a summary of the papers, some suggestions for future research are offered.
Sales revenues: Time‐series properties and predictions
Authors: Abdel‐Khalik A. R. , El‐Sheshai K. M.
Published: July 2007

This paper compares the predictive ability of ARIMA models in forecasting sales revenue. Comparisons were made at both industry and firm levels. With respect to the form of the ARIMA model, a parsimonious model of the form (0, 1, 1) (0, 1, 1) was identified most frequently for firms and industries. This model was identified previously by Griffin and Watts for the earnings series, and by Moriarty and Adams for the sales series. As a parsimonious model, its predictive accuracy was quite good. However, predictive accuracy was also found to be a function of the industry. Out of the eleven industry classifications, ‘metals’ had the lowest predictive accuracy using both firmspecific and industry‐specific ARIMA models.