bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil quality around a solid waste dumpsite in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Ideriah Tubonimi J. K. , Omuaru Victor O. T. , Adiukwu Patricia U.
Published: July 2006

The levels of soil parameters and selected heavy metals around a solid waste dumpsite receiving untreated wastes from all sources and a control site within Port Harcourt, Nigeria have been examined. Top soil (0–15 cm) and sediment samples were collected and analysed for pH value, particle size, total nitrogen, potassium, available phosphorus, organic matter, effective cation exchange capacity, cadmium, nickel and lead using standard methods. The results showed that the waste dump contributed to the high levels of nutrients and heavy metals. The dry season mean concentrations were: organic matter (5.28 ± 1.34% or 132,422.4 kg ha−1), K (1.60 ± 0.52 meq per 100 g), N (0.09 ± 0.06% or 2257.2 kg ha−1), Av.P (15.11 ± 7.57 μg g−1), Cd (1.34 ± 0.72 μg g−1), Ni (4.10 ± 1.63 μg g−1) and Pb (38.85 ± 22.18 μg g−1) while the wet season mean concentrations were organic matter (5.46 ± 1.39% or 136,936.8 kg ha−1), K (2.79 ± 0.81 meq per 100 g), N (0.10 ± 0.05% or 2508 kg ha−1), Av.P (9.22 ± 2.69 μg g−1), Cd (1.72 ± 1.22 μg g−1), Ni (14.95 ± 14.94 μg g−1) and Pb (53.50 ± 40.09 μg g−1). There was efficient mineralization process in the area. The texture of soil on the main dumpsite was loamy sand, which suggests that the ground water in the area is susceptible to contamination by surface pollutants. The texture of soil at the control site is sandy loam while sediment has the textural class of sand. Decomposed organic materials and agricultural activities influenced the texture of soils. The soils from the main dump and sediment were slightly alkaline while the control soil was moderately acidic. In both seasons, a significant variation exists (P < 0.05) between the metal concentrations in soil at the main dump and those in the sediments with a positive correlation (r = 0.572149) in the wet season and (r = 0.956647) in the dry season. The presence of liming materials and activities of microorganisms on the waste dump increased the pH of the soils. The accumulation of nutrients results in the luxuriant growth of plants/crops on the waste dump.
Transaction costs of community‐based forest management: empirical evidence from Tanzania
Authors: Meshack Charles K. , Ahdikari Bhim , Doggart Nike , Lovett Jon C.
Published: July 2006

Levels of transaction costs in community‐based forest management (CBFM) in four communities adjacent to the Ambangulu mountain forests of the north‐east of Tanzania were assessed through questionnaire responses from 120 households. Costs and benefits of CBFM to the rich, medium and poor groups of forest users were estimated. Costs of CBFM were participation in forest monitoring and time spent in meetings. Benefits included forest products consumed at household level. Transaction costs relative to benefits for CBFM were found to be higher for poorer households compared with medium income and richer households. Higher income groups obtained the most net benefits followed by medium and poorer households. Community involvement in forest management may lower the transaction costs incurred by government, but a large proportion of these costs are borne by poorer members of the community. Transaction costs are critical factors in the success or failure of CBFM and need to be incorporated into policies and legislation related to community‐based natural resource management.
Effects of three cytochrome P450 inhibitors, ketoconazole, fluconazole, and paroxetine, on the pharmacokinetics of lasofoxifene
Authors: Ouellet D. , Bramson C. , Roman D. , Remmers A. E. , Randinitis E. , Milton A. , Gardner M.
Published: July 2006

Aims

Two studies were conduced to assess the effects of ketoconazole, a CYP3A4/5 inhibitor; fluconazole, a CYP2C9 inhibitor; and paroxetine, a CYP2D6 inhibitor, on lasofoxifene pharmacokinetics.

Methods

The first parallel group study was conducted in 45 healthy postmenopausal women (15 per group) to compare the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of lasofoxifene (0.25 mg) administered alone and in combination with ketoconazole (400 mg daily × 20 days) or fluconazole (400 mg daily × 20 days). Lasofoxifene was administered on day 2 and blood samples were collected serially for up to 456 h postdose (20 days). The second study enrolled 20 healthy postmenopausal women (10 per group) to compare the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of lasofoxifene (0.25 mg) alone and in combination with paroxetine (30 mg qd × 21 days). Lasofoxifene was given on day 8 of paroxetine treatment and blood samples were collected serially for up to 336 h postdose.

Results

All subjects completed the study and the treatments were well tolerated. LasofoxifeneCmaxand AUC ratios [90% confidence interval (CI)] with/without ketoconazole were 111% (98.4, 127) and 120% (105, 136), respectively, and were 91.3% (80.3, 104) and 104% (91.4, 118), respectively, with/without fluconazole. LasofoxifeneCmaxand AUC ratios (90% CI) with/without paroxetine were 118% (95.4, 146) and 135% (120, 152), respectively.

Conclusions

Coadministration of potent inhibitors of CYP3A4/5 and CYP2D6, but not CYP2C9, resulted in a moderate increase in lasofoxifene exposure. No dosage adjustment should be required when lasofoxifene is coadministered with ketoconazole, fluconazole, paroxetine or other agents that inhibit these CYP enzymes.
Characterizing a tropical deforestation wave: a dynamic spatial analysis of a deforestation hotspot in the Colombian Amazon
Authors: ETTER ANDRES , MCALPINE CLIVE , PHINN STUART , PULLAR DAVID , POSSINGHAM HUGH
Published: July 2006

Tropical deforestation is the major contemporary threat to global biodiversity, because a diminishing extent of tropical forests supports the majority of the Earth's biodiversity. Forest clearing is often spatially concentrated in regions where human land use pressures, either planned or unplanned, increase the likelihood of deforestation. However, it is not a random process, but often moves in waves originating from settled areas. We investigate the spatial dynamics of land cover change in a tropical deforestation hotspot in the Colombian Amazon. We apply a forest cover zoning approach which permitted: calculation of colonization speed; comparative spatial analysis of patterns of deforestation and regeneration; analysis of spatial patterns of mature and recently regenerated forests; and the identification of local‐level hotspots experiencing the fastest deforestation or regeneration. The colonization frontline moved at an average of 0.84 km yr−1 from 1989 to 2002, resulting in the clearing of 3400 ha yr−1 of forests beyond the 90% forest cover line. The dynamics of forest clearing varied across the colonization front according to the amount of forest in the landscape, but was spatially concentrated in well‐defined ‘local hotspots’ of deforestation and forest regeneration. Behind the deforestation front, the transformed landscape mosaic is composed of cropping and grazing lands interspersed with mature forest fragments and patches of recently regenerated forests. We discuss the implications of the patterns of forest loss and fragmentation for biodiversity conservation within a framework of dynamic conservation planning.
Histological evaluation of the osteoinduction capability of human dentine
Authors: Machado M. E. L. , Souza A. S. , Araújo V. C.
Published: July 2006

Aim  To assess whether human dentine has the potential to promote the development of calcified tissues when implanted in the muscle tissue of mice.

Methodology  Root canals in extracted human teeth were instrumented to produce dentine fragments. The dentine fragments produced were divided into two. In group 1, fragments were demineralized and sterilized. In group 2, the fragments were not submitted to any additional treatment. The dentine fragments were then implanted in the muscle of mice. In group 3, the muscles were implanted with rehydrated lyophilized human bone powder. Animals were killed following test periods of 7, 15, 30, 60, 120 and 180 days, the fragments were removed together with adjacent muscle and examined under light microscopy to assess calcification.

Results  Areas of calcification were observed in groups 1 and 3 after a period of 180 days. In group 2, the surrounding tissues displayed only chronic inflammatory infiltration.

Conclusions  On the basis of the experimental model adopted in this study, fibroblast‐rich connective tissue formed in groups 1 and 3, which could reflect an osteoinductive process. Further studies are suggested to identify which dentinal factors are capable of inducing the formation of a calcified matrix.
Geographic and temporal genetic patterns ofAedes aegyptipopulations in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Da Costa‐Ribeiro Magda C. V. , Lourenço‐de‐Oliveira Ricardo , Failloux Anna‐Bella
Published: July 2006

Rio de Janeiro is considered as the most important entry point for dengue viruses in Brazil. Using isoenzyme markers, we investigated the genetic structure of the mosquito vectorAedes aegyptisampled at three‐month intervals in 14 districts in Rio de Janeiro from December 2002 to December 2003. We detected high levels of genetic differentiation (i.e. highFSTvalues and significantPvalues), which tended to persist throughout the year. The species does not take advantage of routes and railways to disperse. Genetic structuring was higher in the rainy season, suggesting low dispersion ofAe. aegyptiat this time of year when all dengue epidemics have been reported in the city.
The fate of alien conifers in long‐term plantings in the USA
Authors: Mortenson Susan G. , Mack Richard N.
Published: July 2006

For more than 100 years, non‐native conifers have been introduced into habitats in the USA that already support native conifers. These introductions have yielded few naturalizations and even less evidence of invasions. We investigated the specific fates of nine non‐native conifers in an array of introduction sites across the USA (Priest River, Idaho, Wind River, Washington, Cedar Creek, Minnesota, and Nantucket Is. and Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts) through tree‐ring analyses, comparisons of growth with adjacent native conifer populations, and surveys for regeneration and spread. Most of the original non‐native tree plantings have died (e.g.Abies veitchii,Pinus densiflora, andPinus halepensisat Wind River, WA); a few have survived but display low vigour and are not regenerating (e.g.Larix decidua,Pinus mugo, andPicea abiesstands at Priest River, ID).Pinus sylvestrisrecruitment is apparent at all sites examined.Pinus thunbergiiappears to be invasive on Nantucket Is., although the nativeBursaphelenchus xylophilus(pinewood nematode) causes high mortality in mature trees. Non‐nativePinusspp. at the Eddy Arboretum, California and Pack Forest, Washington also experienced high mortality. Dendroclimatic analyses revealed no difference in the effect of climate on the annual growth of native and non‐native conifers. Plantations of introduced conifers in the south‐eastern USA have dieden masse(e.g. Harrison Experimental Forest, Mississippi, Olustee Arboretum, Florida). Such widespread extirpations are in sharp contrast to the fate of native conifers in adjacent stands as well as the multiple cases of large‐scale conifer invasions in the Southern Hemisphere. Given the diversity of alien plant species that have invaded the USA, the circumstances surrounding the lack of persistence of introduced conifers becomes an important line of inquiry for understanding the factors and circumstances that facilitate or thwart biological invasions.
Allergic children have more numerous and severe respiratory infections than non‐allergic children
Authors: Ciprandi Giorgio , Tosca Maria Angela , Fasce Lilia
Published: July 2006

Allergic disorders are characterized by Th2‐polarization, and hence physiological Th1‐dependent mechanisms for fighting respiratory infections (RI) may be defective. This study aimed at evaluating the number and duration of RI in allergic and non‐allergic children suffering from recurrent RI. One hundred seventeen children (4.02 ± 1.0 yr, 72 males and 45 females) were studied during the spring, 46 were allergic. Allergic children showed a significantly higher number (mean 1.26 ± 0.73) and longer duration of RI (8.92 days) in comparison with non‐allergic group (0.94 ± 1.37 and 4.85 days) (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.009, respectively). In conclusion, this study provides the evidence that allergic children have more numerous and severe RI than non‐allergic children.
Capacity Cost Allocation in the Provision of Urban Public Services: The Case of Gas Distribution
Authors: GULDMANN JEAN‐MICHEL
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTThis paper analyzes the pattern of price discrimination and cross‐subsidization that result from traditional gas distribution cost allocation procedures. A gas distribution capital cost function is developed, using the Box‐Cox transformation and estimation procedure applied to a cross‐section of 65 communities, and is used to assess the deviations between distribution marginal costs and actual cost allocations. The major conclusions are that current pricing practices produce an aggregate net subsidy to all combined customer classes, that both intra‐ and inter‐class cross‐subsidizations are occurring, with the commercial and small industrial markets as the major losers, and that the smaller communities tend to subsidize the larger ones. These results support a move away from current, company‐level pricing practices towards locally differentiated pricing.
Energy For Sustainable Agricultural Development In Zimbabwe
Authors: WEINER DANIEL , MUNSLOW BARRY , MOYO SAM
Published: July 2006

Zimbabwe's 1992 food crisis revealed both spatial and social contradictions associated with post‐independence agricultural growth. Zimbabwe's pattern of agricultural restructuring demonstrates the need for agrarian reform programs that are more socially and environmentally sustainable. This paper examines one aspect of agricultural sustainability—the use of energy. Post‐independence patterns of agricultural energy consumption are analyzed and traced historically, and the social relations of agricultural energy utilization are investigated. The energetic efficiencies of the primary farming systems are calculated as are the macro‐flows of energy to agriculture generally. The data and historical analysis point to the need for a restructuring of agriculture that involves greater reliance on local renewable energy in all farming systems, and the continued resettlement of black smallholders onto former white‐settler estates.
Migration Regions and Interstate Labor Flows by Occupation in the United States
Authors: ELLIS MARK , BARFF RICHARD , RENARD BEVERLY
Published: July 2006

This paper investigates the migration patterns of occupational groups. The results confirm previous analyses of the differences in movement behavior between occupations but, in addition, show that this variation is a function of the industrial sector of employment. The chief aim of the paper, however, is to uncover the geography of labor flows for different occupational groups using a principal components analysis of interstate flow matrices. The resulting migration regions are homogeneous with respect to the movement behavior of particular classes or labor in each state. Results indicate that migration regions vary by occupation and industry and we argue that these differences reflect job information flows and regional employment structure for various classes of labor. The concluding remarks offer a number of additional avenues for research on occupational migration, and regions in general.
Stochastic analysis of crude oil procurement and processing under uncertain demand for bunker fuel oil
Authors: Zimberg Bernardo , Testuri Carlos E.
Published: July 2006

Bunker fuel oil (ifo), one of the products of petroleum refining, has a strong impact in the production process because it drives the availability of heavy residues that depend on the crude quality. A simplified stochastic model for the Administración Nacional de Combustibles Alcohol y Portland refinery, based on the uncertainty of the demand for ifo, is proposed for comparison with the current approach of deterministic demand. In this model, the benefits of the production process are maximized, taking decisions on the more suitable raw material, intermediate products and final blends in order to fulfill quality and demand requirements of final products. A specific case is analyzed where the maximum benefit is achieved when the most expensive crude quality is purchased, due to a lack of incentive to produce extra amounts of heavy fuel oil that must be exported at a non‐attractive price. Results are compared with the solution of a deterministic model with mean demand. In addition, the stochastic model solution depicts how the refinery should operate for each scenario of ifo demand.
Optimal P‐Wave Duration for Bedside Diagnosis of Interatrial Block
Authors: Ariyarajah Vignendra , Apiyasawat Sirin , Spodick David H.
Published: July 2006

Background: Interatrial block (IAB; P wave ≥ 110 ms) is highly prevalent and associated with atrial tachyarrhythmias, left atrial electromechanical dysfunction and is a potential risk for embolism. Investigators have often used different parameters for P‐wave duration to define IAB, and this causes confusion further adding to clinician ignorance of IAB. We therefore appraised the mode P‐wave duration in IAB and evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of using previously used durations.

Methods: We prospectively evaluated 225 electrocardiograms (ECGs) of patients at a tertiary care general hospital for P‐wave duration. Of these, 49 were excluded because of severe motion artifact, errors in lead placement, absence of adequate patient identification, and atrial flutter or fibrillation. Mean, standard error of mean (SEM), standard deviation (SD), mode P‐wave duration, specificity, and sensitivity were calculated of the remaining 176 ECGs.

Results: From the sample (N = 176; ages 15–95 years; mean ± SD = 69.15 ± 16.53 years, female 50.3%), measured P‐wave durations ranged from 50 ms to 230 ms (mean ± SD = 113.75 ± 30.56 ms, SEM 2.30 ms). 96 patients (54.55%) showed IAB (P wave ≥ 110 ms) with the mode P‐wave duration being 120 ms. Sensitivity and specificity of using P wave ≥ 110 ms is 100% and 88.9%, respectively (accuracy 94.31%), while P wave ≥130 ms yielded 64% and 100%, respectively (accuracy 82.38%).

Conclusions: Mode P‐wave duration in IAB is 120 ms, and thus, for all practical reasons, it may be used to clinically diagnose IAB using ECGs recorded at the bedside at 25 mm/s with 10 mm/mV standardization.
A Segmental Polynomial Model of Ventricular Electrograms as a Simple and Efficient Morphology Discriminator for Implantable Devices
Authors: Williams Jeffrey L. , Shusterman Vladimir , Saba Samir
Published: July 2006

Background: The goal of this study is to construct a polynomial model of the ventricular electrogram (EGM) that faithfully reproduces the EGM and can be implemented in current, low computational power implantable devices. Such a model of ventricular EGMs is still lacking.

Methods: New Zealand White rabbits underwent chronic implantation of pacemakers through a left thoracotomy approach. Unipolar ventricular EGMs sampled at a frequency of 1 kHz were stored digitally in 1‐minute segments before and after intravenous injection of isoproterenol or procainamide. Each cardiac cycle was divided into a QR and an RQ segment which were modeled separately using a 6th order polynomial equation.

Results: The 14 coefficients of each cardiac cycle were reproducible throughout the baseline recordings (r ≥ 0.94, P < 0.002). Isoproterenol caused no changes in the coefficients of the QR segment but significantly altered all but one of the seven coefficients of the RQ segment (p6= 0.0039, p5= 0.017, p4= 0.00007, p3= 0.112, p2= 0.00016, p1= 0.0086, pa= 0.00003). Procainamide caused statistically significant changes in both QR segment (p6= 0.018, p5= 0.287, p4= 0.019, p3= 0.176, p2= 0.016, p1= 0.362, pa= 0.000044) and RQ segment (p6= 0.0028, p5= 0.036, p4= 0.002, p3= 0.058, p2= 0.022, p1= 0.718, pa= 0.0018) coefficients.

Conclusion: Our data demonstrate the feasibility of a segmental polynomial equation that reproduces the phases of depolarization and repolarization of the rabbit EGM. This model is reproducible and demonstrates the expected changes with antiarrhythmic drug administration. If reproduced in humans, these findings can have wide applications in patients with implantable devices, ranging from morphologic discrimination of arrhythmias to early detection of metabolic derangements or drug effects.
The Chemistry of Saline Waters
Authors: Krieger R. A.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTS

The following is a listing of abstracts of papers presented at recent meetings or appearing in other publications which are of interest to those in the field of ground water.

Abstracts of papers presented during the 1963 National Water Well Exposition ‐ San Francisco, California, September 29‐October 3, 1963 (as published in the Water Well Journal, Vol. 17, No. 9).

Analysis of Current Meter Data by Flow‐Distribution Curves, Leve, Gilbert W., Geologist, U. S. Geological Survey, Jacksonville, Florida
Mapping Buried Bedrock Topography with Gravity
Authors: Ibrahim Abdelwahid , Hinze William J.
Published: July 2006

In the formerly glaciated Midwest, bedrock formations commonly are denser than overlying glacial sediments. Thus, gravity anomalies have a direct relationship to bedrock topography. Where the density contrast between the glacial sediments and the bedrock is known, the anomalies can be used to map the bedrock configuration if they can be isolated from gravity anomalies originating elsewhere in the geologic section. A method of isolating bedrock topography gravity anomalies is suggested based upon known bedrock elevations obtained from drillhole data. A regional gravity anomaly map is prepared by subtracting the excess gravitational effect of the known bedrock relief above a datum from the observed gravity anomalies at all drillhole sites. The regional gravity anomaly map is subtracted from the observed anomaly map to obtain a residual anomaly map reflecting the bedrock topography. The bedrock configuration can be calculated directly from this map. This method of isolating bedrock topography anomalies was found to be superior to the use of cross‐profiling and least‐squares polynomial approximation procedures in a study of Kalamazoo County, Michigan. The bedrock topography map of this County determined by the gravity‐geologic method shows a complex bedrock topography and drainage system.
COMMUNITY‐BASED PROVISION OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES IN RURAL SOUTH AFRICA1
Authors: Breier Matthew , Visser Martine
Published: July 2006

It is often contended that rural development works most effectively when beneficiary communities are active project participants, and not the passive recipients of assistance. This paper analyses participatory development through the lens of public goods theory. South Africa's Community Water Supply & Sanitation Programme is discussed as a case study. Conclusions from our game‐theoretic analysis are used to make suggestions for South African development policy.
FAIR VALUE PRICING OF AGRICULTURAL FUTURES IN SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: Faure Ap
Published: July 2006

In the South African agricultural (specifically grain) markets an interesting phenomenon exists: where futures and options on grain products exist (i.e. white maize, yellow maize, soy beans, wheat, and sunflower seeds) price discovery in the spot (also known as “cash”) markets is poor, whereas price discovery in the futures markets is considered respectable. Consequently, whenever a spot deal is undertaken, this price is “derived” from the relevant futures market.

This severely anomalous phenomenon will be evident: futures are generally labeled “derivatives” because their prices are “derived” from their spot markets, whereas here we have a situation where spot prices are derived from their futures price (specifically the price of the near – as opposed to far – future). Because of this unusual phenomenon the mathematics involved is not readily available in the literature; this article is an attempt to briefly outline the phenomenon and to present the relevant mathematics.
Application of Finite Deformation Theory to the Development of an Orthogonal Cutting Model—Part I: Model Development
Authors: Zheng Yuliu , Hu Xuefei , Sutherland John W.
Published: July 2006

An orthogonal cutting model is developed using the finite deformation theory of continuum mechanics. A family of flowlines is proposed to describe the chip flow during orthogonal cutting, and the shape of the flowlines is described in terms of three parameters, one of which is the shear angle. The velocity, Eulerian strain, and Eulerian strain rate distribution along the assumed flowlines are obtained analytically for the orthogonal cutting operation based on this model. The temperature distribution along the flowline is predicted via a finite difference method. Values for the three flowline parameters are selected that minimize the total power associated with primary shear zone deformation and chip-tool interaction using the Davidon-Fletcher-Powell optimization scheme. The model utilizes a general constitutive equation for material behavior, which is a function of strain, strain rate, and temperature. In Part I of this two-part paper, the continuum mechanics-based model for the orthogonal cutting process is established. Experimental assessment and adequacy checking of the model, including determination of the material constitutive equation using a split Hopkinson pressure bar technique, is presented in Part II of the paper.
Prion-Induced Amyloid Heart Disease with High Blood Infectivity in Transgenic Mice
Authors: Trifilo Matthew J. , Yajima Toshitaka , Gu Yusu , Dalton Nancy , Peterson Kirk L. , Race Richard E. , Meade-White Kimberly , Portis John L. , Masliah Eliezer , Knowlton Kirk U. , Chesebro Bruce , Oldstone Michael B. A.
Published: July 2006

We investigated extraneural manifestations in scrapie-infected transgenic mice expressing prion protein lacking the glycophosphatydylinositol membrane anchor. In the brain, blood, and heart, both abnormal protease-resistant prion protein (PrPres) and prion infectivity were readily detected by immunoblot and by inoculation into nontransgenic recipients. The titer of infectious scrapie in blood plasma exceeded 10
7
50% infectious doses per milliliter. The hearts of these transgenic mice contained PrPres-positive amyloid deposits that led to myocardial stiffness and cardiac disease.
Islamic Inventiveness
Authors: Pickstone John
Published: July 2006

1001 Inventions
. Discover the Muslim Heritage in Our World.
Salim Al-Hassani, originator
. Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester, through 3 September 2006.
www.1001inventions.com

1001 Inventions
. Muslim Heritage in Our World.
Salim Al-Hassani, Ed.
. Foundation for Science, Technology and Civilisation, Manchester, UK, 2006. 372 pp. £25. ISBN 0-9552426-0-6.

This exhibition showcases contributions to science and technology from the Islamic world during its first millennium.
Epithelial displacement during breast needle core biopsy causes diagnostic difficulties in subsequent surgical excision specimens
Authors: Phelan Sine , O’Doherty Ann , Hill Arnold , Quinn Cecily M
Published: July 2006

Background: The use of needle core biopsy (NCB) as part of triple assessment for non-operative evaluation and diagnosis of breast lesions is now routine practice. Trauma to breast tissue during NCB may result in displacement of breast epithelium and may lead to diagnostic difficulty in subsequent excision specimens.

Methods: The cases of seven mammographically detected breast lesions in which epithelial displacement due to NCB was identified and caused problems in confirmation of tumour size, assessment of surgical margins, and interpretation of possible invasive carcinoma and lymphovascular invasion are reported here.

Conclusion: Previous observations that epithelial displacement is more likely to occur when the interval between NCB and surgical excision is short are supported.
Utility of immunohistochemical analysis for cyclo-oxygenase 2 in the differential diagnosis of osteoblastoma and osteosarcoma
Authors: Hosono Ako , Yamaguchi Umio , Makimoto Atsushi , Endo Makoto , Watanabe Atsuko , Shimoda Tadakazu , Kaya Mitsunori , Matsumura Tadaki , Sonobe Hiroshi , Kusumi Tomomi , Yamaguchi Takehiko , Hasegawa Tadashi
Published: July 2006

Aims:To study the immunoexpression of cyclo-oxygenase (COX) 2 in osteoblastomas (OBs) and osteosarcomas (OSs), and to assess the utility of immunohistochemical analysis for COX 2 in the differential diagnosis of the two tumour forms.

Methods:The immunohistochemical features of COX 2 were studied in 11 OBs and 30 OSs, including 26 high-grade OSs (16 osteoblastic, 7 chondroblastic, and 3 fibroblastic) and 4 low-grade OSs.

Results:Tumour cells from all 11 OBs unequivocally showed diffuse, intense and cytoplasmic immunoreactivity for COX 2. Strong cytoplasmic expression of COX 2 was observed in 5 of 26 (19%) high-grade OSs, all chondroblastic. In one osteoblastic-type OS, COX 2 was expressed in the chondroblastic component, but this tumour was considered to be COX 2 negative. No COX 2 expression was noted in atypical osteoblastic cells. Staining in the four low-grade OSs was negative.

Conclusion:The results of immunohistochemical analysis of COX 2 suggest that in addition to the routine histopathological evaluation, COX 2 is a valuable diagnostic marker in the distinction between OB and OS.
Upregulation of Twist in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma is associated with neoplastic transformation and distant metastasis
Authors: Yuen Hiu-Fung , Chan Yuen-Piu , Lok-Yee Wong Michelle , Kwok Wei-Kei , Chan Ka-Kui , Lee Pin-Yin , Srivastava Gopesh , Law Simon Ying-Kit , Wong Yong-Chuan , Wang Xianghong , Chan Kwok-Wah
Published: July 2006

Background:The antiapoptotic and epithelial–mesenchymal transition activities of Twist have been implicated in the neoplastic transformation and the development of metastasis, respectively. Upregulation of Twist, described in several types of human cancer, also acts as a prognostic marker of poor outcome.

Aim:To investigate Twist expression in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and its prognostic value in a Chinese cohort of patients with oesophageal SCC.

Methods:Twist expression in primary oesophageal SCC of 87 Chinese patients was investigated by immunohistochemical staining. Twist protein level in one immortalised normal oesophageal epithelial cell line and six oesophageal SCC cell lines was measured by western blot analysis.TwistmRNA level in 30 pairs of frozen specimens of primary oesophageal SCC and non-neoplastic oesophageal epithelium from the upper resection margin of corresponding oesophagectomy specimen was also determined by semiquantitative reverse transcription-PCR.

Results:It was found that Twist was upregulated in oesophageal SCC cell lines, and its mRNA and protein levels were both increased in oesophageal SCC and the non-neoplastic oesophageal epithelium (p<0.001). In addition, a high level of Twist expression in oesophageal SCC was significantly associated with a greater risk for the patient of developing distant metastasis within 1 year of oesophagectomy (OR 3.462, 95% CI 1.201 to 9.978; p = 0.022).

Conclusions:Our results suggest that upregulation of Twist plays a role in the neoplastic transformation to oesophageal SCC and subsequent development of distant metastasis. Twist may serve as a useful prognostic marker for predicting the development of distant metastasis in oesophageal SCC.
Lack of endothelial nitric oxide synthase decreases cardiomyocyte proliferation and delays cardiac maturation
Authors: Lepic Erin , Burger Dylan , Lu Xiangru , Song Wei , Feng Qingping
Published: July 2006

We recently demonstrated that deficiency in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) results in congenital septal defects and postnatal heart failure. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of eNOS in cardiomyocyte proliferation and maturation during postnatal development. Cultured eNOS knockout (eNOS−/−) cardiomyocytes displayed fewer cells and lower bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation in vitro compared with wild-type (WT) cardiomyocytes ( P < 0.05). Treatment with the nitric oxide (NO) donor diethylenetriamine NONOate increased BrdU incorporation and cell counts in eNOS−/− cardiomyocytes ( P < 0.05). Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase activity using NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester decreased the level of BrdU incorporation and cell counts in WT cardiomyocytes ( P < 0.05). Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increased the level of BrdU incorporation in cultured WT cardiomyocytes in a dose- and time-dependent manner ( P < 0.05). Conversely, VEGF did not alter BrdU incorporation in eNOS−/− cardiomyocytes ( P = not significant). Furthermore, deficiency in eNOS significantly decreased BrdU labeling indexes in neonatal hearts in vivo. Although WT hearts displayed a rapid decrease in atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) expression in the first week of neonatal life, ANP expression in eNOS−/− hearts remain elevated. Our study demonstrated that NO production from eNOS is necessary for postnatal cardiomyocyte proliferation and maturation, suggesting that eNOS plays an important role during postnatal heart development.
Reduced peribronchial fibrosis in allergen-challenged MMP-9-deficient mice
Authors: Lim Dae Hyun , Cho Jae Youn , Miller Marina , McElwain Kirsti , McElwain Shauna , Broide David H.
Published: July 2006

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of extracellular proteases that are responsible for the degradation of the extracellular matrix during tissue remodeling. We have used a mouse model of allergen-induced airway remodeling to determine whether MMP-9 plays a role in airway remodeling. MMP-9-deficient and wild-type (WT) mice were repetitively challenged intranasally with ovalbumin (OVA) antigen to develop features of airway remodeling including peribronchial fibrosis and increased thickness of the peribronchial smooth muscle layer. OVA-challenged MMP-9-deficient mice had less peribronchial fibrosis and total lung collagen compared with OVA-challenged WT mice. There was no reduction in mucus expression, smooth muscle thickness, or airway responsiveness in OVA-challenged MMP-9-deficient compared with OVA-challenged WT mice. OVA-challenged MMP-9-deficient mice had reduced levels of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed, and secreted (RANTES), as well as reduced numbers of BAL and peribronchial eosinophils compared with OVA-challenged WT mice. There were no significant difference in levels of BAL eotaxin, thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC), or macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC) in OVA-challenged WT compared with MMP-9-deficient mice. Overall, this study demonstrates that MMP-9 may play a role in mediating selected aspects of allergen-induced airway remodeling (i.e., modest reduction in levels of peribronchial fibrosis) but does not play a significant role in mucus expression, smooth muscle thickness, or airway responsiveness.
Nature of glomerular capillary permeability changes following acute renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats
Authors: Rippe Catarina , Rippe Anna , Larsson Anna , Asgeirsson Daniel , Rippe Bengt
Published: July 2006

This study was performed to evaluate the alterations of glomerular filtration barrier characteristics following acute renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Ischemia was induced in anesthetized rats by unilateral renal artery occlusion for either 20 or 60 min, followed by reperfusion during 20 or 60 min, respectively, with the contralateral kidney serving as control. Sieving coefficients (θ) were obtained by analyzing Ficoll [mol.radius ( ae) 13–85 Å] in urine and plasma after 20 and 60 min I/R. Furthermore, θ for human serum albumin (HSA) was estimated using a tissue uptake technique after 20 and 60 min of I/R, while clearance of HSA compared with that for neutralized HSA (nHSA) was assessed after 20 min of I/R only. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was measured by [51Cr]EDTA and inulin. I/R reduced GFR and increased θ for Ficoll molecules of ae>55 Å and θ for albumin. θ for Ficoll vs. ae, analysed using a two-pore model, demonstrated that, despite increases in θ, the large-pore fractional ultrafiltration coefficient (αL) was unchanged after 20 min of I/R, owing to the decline in GFR, but increased after 60 min of I/R. However, the apparent αLfor albumin increased already after 20 min of I/R ( P < 0.005) and the nHSA/HSA clearance ratio was slightly reduced, possibly reflecting a diminished negative charge barrier. In conclusion, after 20 min of I/R, indications of a reduced charge selectivity were noted, while after 60 min of I/R, there was mainly a reduction in size selectivity, compatible with an increased formation of large pores.
Neu-Induced Retroviral Rat Mammary Carcinogenesis: A Novel Chemoprevention Model for Both Hormonally Responsive and Nonresponsive Mammary Carcinomas
Authors: Woditschka Stephan , Haag Jill D. , Waller Jordy L. , Monson Dinelli M. , Hitt Andrew A. , Brose Heidi L. , Hu Rong , Zheng Yun , Watson Philip A. , Kim Kwanghee , Lindstrom Mary J. , Mau Bob , Steele Vernon E. , Lubet Ronald A. , Gould Michael N.
Published: July 2006

Clinically relevant animal models of mammary carcinogenesis are crucial for the development and evaluation of new breast cancer chemopreventive agents. The neu-induced retroviral rat mammary carcinogenesis model is based on the direct in situ transfer of the activated neu oncogene into the mammary epithelium using a replication-defective retroviral vector. The resulting mammary carcinomas in intact Wistar-Furth rats exhibit a mixed hormonal response in the same proportion as has been observed in women. In intact rats, ∼50% of mammary carcinomas can be prevented by tamoxifen treatment. In ovariectomized animals, the mammary carcinomas are hormonally nonresponsive and cannot be prevented by tamoxifen. We evaluated the efficacy of retinoic X receptor–selective retinoids (rexinoids) in this novel model of mammary carcinogenesis. The rexinoids LG100268 and bexarotene (LG1069, Targretin) were highly efficacious in the prevention of neu-induced mammary carcinomas. Dietary LG100268 at 100 mg/kg diet decreased tumor multiplicity by 32% (P = 0.0114) in intact rats and 50% (P < 0.0001) in ovariectomized rats. Bexarotene treatment at a dose of 250 mg/kg diet was associated with reductions in tumor multiplicity of 84% (P < 0.0001) and 86% (P < 0.0001) in intact and ovariectomized animals, respectively. In addition to tumor multiplicity, proliferation and apoptosis were modulated by bexarotene treatment independently of estrogen signaling. The neu-induced retroviral rat mammary carcinogenesis model represents a valuable addition to existing rodent chemoprevention models. The model is useful for assessing the efficacy of chemopreventive agents, specifically those compounds that target hormonally nonresponsive tumors. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(13): 6884-91)
I Pargoli di Agatodemone: Frammenti di Mitologie Alchemiche
Authors: Albrile Ezio
Published: July 2006

An important source for the study of Hellenistic Alchemy is the Neoplatonic Olympiodorus and his treatise on “Sacred Art”. In this text Olympiodorus gives an unitary view of alchemical praxis, based on the production and transformation of a peculiar element, the so-called “magnet” or “magnesia”. This element is the “substantial body”, sōma hypostatikon, the body which is “giving existence”, the alchemical black lead, the prima materia. The alchemist succeeds, by his creative action, in obtaining a perfect body which is able to transmit perfection to every body with which it is in contact. This is the elixir which gives health and salvation. The processes described put emphasis on color change as a guide to progress from black to white to yellow to violet: the sequence was clearly associated with the change from a chaotic and undefined primal stage to metallic perfection. And although the final phase or iōsis was eventually to be changed from violet to red, the emphasis on color was to remain a basic theme in descriptions of the magnum opus.
The Inclusion of the Other?
Authors: Thomassen Lasse
Published: July 2006

In his most recent work, Jürgen Habermas has proposed a deliberative account of tolerance where the norms of tolerance—including the threshold of tolerance and the norms regulating the relationship between the tolerating and the tolerated parties—are the outcomes of deliberations among the citizens affected by the norms. He thinks that in this way, the threshold of tolerance can be rationalized and the relationship between tolerating and tolerated will rest on the symmetrical relations of public deliberations. In this essay, and inspired by Jacques Derrida's work on the concept of hospitality, I propose a deconstructive reading of Habermas's writings on tolerance. I argue that Habermas is ultimately unable to provide a rational foundation for tolerance and that his conception of tolerance encounters the same problems he is trying to avoid, namely, the contingency of the threshold of tolerance and a paternalistic relation between tolerating and tolerated. Yet, contra Habermas, the deconstruction of tolerance does not result in its destruction and does not force us to give up on the concept and practice of tolerance.
You Can Generalize Stupid! Social Scientists, Bent Flyvbjerg, and Case Study Methodology
Authors: Ruddin Lee Peter
Published: July 2006

It is an issue of some contestation as to whether generalization is an appropriate requisite to demand of case study research in any case. The author argues that the critique is misdirected, and based on Bent Flyvbjerg’s concept of a “critical case,” ways of generalizing from case studies are indicated (Iran/Iraq War of 1980). In addition, the author illustrates that the case study is idyllic for generalizing using the brand of test that Karl Popper called “falsification.” Conversely, the author exhibits Robert Stake’s ethos that case studies need not make any claims about the generalizability of their findings but rather, what is crucial is the use others make of them—chiefly, that they feed into processes of “naturalistic generalization.”
Synthesis of 3-Hydroxycephems from Penicillin G through Cyclization of Chlorinated 4-(Phenylsulfonylthio)-2-azetidinones Promoted by a BiCl3/Sn or TiCl4/Sn Bimetal Redox System
Authors: Tanaka Hideo , Taniguchi Masatoshi , Kameyama Yutaka , Monnin Marc , Torii Sigeru , Sasaoka Michio , Shiroi Takashi , Nagao Shigemitsu , Yamada Takae , Tokumaru Yoshihisa
Published: July 2006

A novel access to 3-hydroxycephems was attained from penicillin G via the C=C bond cleavage of 1-(1-alkoxycarbonyl-2-chloromethyl-2-propenyl)-4-(phenylsulfonylthio)-2-azetidinones by successive treatment with RuCl3/HIO4 and HIO4/CuSO4 and reductive cyclization of 1-(1-alkoxycarbonyl-3-chloro-2-hydroxy-1-propenyl)-4-(phenylsulfonylthio)-2-azetidinones on treatment with a newly devised BiCl3/Sn or TiCl4/Sn bimetal redox couple in DMF containing pyridine.
Reactions of (2,4,6-Tri-t-butyl)thiobenzaldehyde with Diazo Compounds. Synthesis and Reactions of Sterically Congested Thiiranes
Authors: Watanabe Soichiro , Kawashima Takayuki , Tokitoh Norihiro , Okazaki Renji
Published: July 2006

Sterically congested thiiranes having a 2,4,6-tri-t-butylphenyl group were synthesized by the reactions of (2,4,6-tri-t-butyl)thiobenzaldehyde with sterically hindered diazo compounds. Thermal desulfurization of the most congested thiirane, 2,2-di-t-butyl-3-(2,4,6-tri-t-butylphenyl)thiirane (15c), did not proceed even upon using highly reactive reagents, such as hexamethylphosphorous triamide or organolithiums. The photo-reaction of 15c did not give the corresponding styrene, but afforded several products containing 2,4,6-tri-t-butylbenzo[b]thiophene and Dewar benzenes, 2,2-di-t-butyl-3-(3,4,6-tri-t-butylbicyclo[2.2.0]hexa-2,5-dien-2-yl)thiirane and 2-t-butyl-3,3-dimethyl-1-(1,3,5-tri-t-butylbicyclo[2.2.0]hexa-2,5-diene-2-yl)-1-butene (24), the latter of which is the first example for a vinyl-substituted Dewar benzene. Compound 24 has a unique reactivity, giving a rearrangement product, 2-t-butyl-3,3-dimethyl-1-(1,3,5-tri-t-butylbicyclo[2.2.0]hexa-2,5-diene-2-yl)-1-butene on thermolysis.
Intractable Epistaxis Associated with Topiramate Administration
Authors: Page Robert L , Bainbridge Jacquelyn L
Published: July 2006

Objective:

To report a case of a patient who experienced serious, intractable epistaxis warranting emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admission after initiation of topiramate therapy.

Case Summary:

A 61-year-old woman with significant cardiovascular disease was started on topiramate 25 mg daily for lower extremity neuropathy. After 7 days of treatment, she began to experience severe, intractable epistaxis that lasted 8 days, warranting an ED visit. The epistaxis resolved 1 week after topiramate discontinuation. Topiramate was restarted 3 months later, and the patient again developed intractable epistaxis. After 2 days of epistaxis, she returned to the ED with significant anginal pain and was admitted to the hospital, where she received 2 units of packed red blood cells. One week after stopping topiramate, the epistaxis stopped. At the time of writing, she had exhibited no epistaxis for 6 months. According to the Naranjo probability scale, topiramate was the probable cause of epistaxis.

Discussion:

Topiramate is a neuromodulatory compound approved for management of migraines, as well as partial and generalized tonic–clonic seizures. Over the past decade, its use has expanded to include many other neuropathic conditions. Currently, epistaxis has been reported in only 1–4% of patients receiving topiramate in clinical trials; however, these data were derived from a young study population. Like topiramate, calcium-channel blockers (CCBs) modulate voltage-gated L type calcium ion channels. These specific channels are located on vascular smooth muscle and non-contractile tissues such as platelets. Due to their possible antiplatelet effects, CCBs have been associated with an increased risk of hemorrhage, epistaxis, and prolonged bleeding time. The same may hold true for topiramate.

Conclusions:

Topiramate, particularly in combination with antiplatelet medications, may be associated with severe, intractable epistaxis. Intractable epistaxis should be added to the list of potentially serious adverse reactions that are monitored when topiramate is administered.
Changing Issue Representation among Major United States Environmental Movement Organizations*
Authors: Johnson Erik
Published: July 2006

Abstract Histories of the environmental movement have emphasized the importance of a shift in focus from those issues traditionally associated with the movement, such as resource and wildlife protection, towards “new” quality of life issues, such as environmental pollution and its human health effects. Here, time‐series data between 1970 and 2000 on the issue agendas of fifty leading environmental movement organizations (EMOs) are used to empirically assess the veracity of this hypothesized shift. Results indicate that while there is dramatic growth in the salience of new environmental issues, those issues traditionally associated with the environmental movement continue to dominate the collective agendas of major EMOs. Further, new environmental issues are most likely to be represented in organizational fields composed of smaller EMOs on average.