bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pullback of the volume form, integrable models in higher dimensions and exotic textures
Authors: Adam C. , Klimas P. , Sánchez-Guillén J. , Wereszczyński A.
Published: February 2009

A procedure allowing for the construction of Lorentz invariant integrable models living in d+1 dimensional space time and with an n dimensional target space is provided. Here, integrability is understood as the existence of the generalized zero curvature formulation and infinitely many conserved quantities. A close relation between the Lagrange density of the integrable models and the pullback of the pertinent volume form on target space is established. Moreover, we show that the conserved currents are Noether currents generated by the volume-preserving diffeomorphisms. Further, we show how such models may emerge via Abelian projection of some gauge theories. Then we apply this framework to the construction of integrable models with exotic textures. Particularly, we consider integrable models providing exact suspended Hopf maps, i.e., solitons with a nontrivial topological charge of π4(S3)≅Z2. Finally, some families of integrable models with solitons of πn(Sn) type are constructed. Infinitely many exact solutions with arbitrary value of the topological index are found. In addition, we demonstrate that they saturate a Bogomolny bound.
Atomic layer deposition of LaxZr1−xO2−δ (x=0.25) high-k dielectrics for advanced gate stacks
Authors: Tsoutsou D. , Lamagna L. , Volkos S. N. , Molle A. , Baldovino S. , Schamm S. , Coulon P. E. , Fanciulli M.
Published: February 2009

Thin LaxZr1−xO2−δ (x=0.25) high permittivity (k) films are grown on Si(100) by atomic layer deposition at 300 °C using (PirCp)3La, (MeCp)2ZrMe(OMe) and O3 species. Their properties are studied by grazing incidence x-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, electron energy loss spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electrical measurements on the as-grown films and after vacuum annealing at 600 °C. Annealed films feature resistance to hygroscopicity, a large k value of around 30 and an acceptable leakage current density. A low-k silica-rich interlayer is also evidenced at both pristine and annealed high-k/Si interfaces.
A sample cell to study hydrate formation with x-ray scattering
Authors: Conrad Heiko , Lehmkühler Felix , Sternemann Christian , Feroughi Omid , Simonelli Laura , Huotari Simo , Tolan Metin
Published: February 2009

We present a new sample cell for measuring nonresonant inelastic x-ray scattering spectra of a tetrahydrofuran (THF)-water liquid mixture and THF hydrate. The hydrate is formed inside the cell after nucleation seeds have been offered by a special magnetic stirring mechanism. Hydrate formation was verified by wide angle x-ray scattering and nonresonant x-ray Raman scattering spectra at the oxygen K-edge. A broad range of scattering angles can be studied with this cell which is necessary for momentum transfer dependent inelastic x-ray scattering. This cell is ideal to examine other liquid hydrate formers or other liquid samples, which have to be mixed in situ during the measurements.
High-yield dielectrophoretic assembly of two-dimensional graphene nanostructures
Authors: Burg Brian R. , Lütolf Fabian , Schneider Julian , Schirmer Niklas C. , Schwamb Timo , Poulikakos Dimos
Published: February 2009

Graphene handling is still dominated by serial mechanical exfoliation, which may well facilitate measurements in a laboratory environment but does not allow reliable larger-scale integration. Herein we demonstrate the controlled, high-yield (>90%), site-selective deposition of ultrathin few-layer (three to ten) graphene oxide by dielectrophoresis between prefabricated electrodes. Individual layers are found near the edges. Initially insulating, thermal reduction at 450 °C thins out the two-dimensional few-atom thick films and dramatically reduces electrical resistances down to 40 kΩ. Conductivities between 15 and 36 S/cm are obtained. The introduced method permits the nonintrusive, parallel, large-scale assembly of soluble two-dimensional nanostructures and sheets.
Effects of electron-beam irradiation on conducting polypyrrole nanowires
Authors: Hong Young Ki , Park Dong Hyuk , Park Se Hee , Park Soung Kyu , Joo Jinsoo
Published: February 2009

Conducting polypyrrole (PPy) nanowires (NWs) were irradiated by a relatively high energy (300 keV–2 MeV) electron-beam (e-beam) generated from a linear electron accelerator in an atmospheric environment. From the current-voltage characteristics of pristine and 2 MeV e-beam irradiated PPy NWs, we observed a dramatic variation in resistance from 8.0×102 to 1.45×108 Ω, that is, we observed a transition from conducting states to nonconducting states through the e-beam irradiation. To discern conformational changes and the doping states of PPy NWs through the e-beam irradiation, we measured Raman and ultraviolet-visible absorption spectra for the PPy NWs. As the energy of the e-beam irradiation increased, we observed that the PPy NWs were changed from doping states to dedoping states with conformational modification including the variation in π-conjugation length.
Top-down approach to align single-walled carbon nanotubes on silicon substrate
Authors: Orofeo Carlo M. , Ago Hiroki , Yoshihara Naoki , Tsuji Masaharu
Published: February 2009

We report controlled horizontal alignment of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) directly grown on trenched SiO2/Si substrate. The nanotubes were found to align along the trenches, which were created via electron beam lithography followed by reactive ion etching. From the experimental observations, the alignment mechanism was proposed. Furthermore, field-effect transistors fabricated from these substrates showed acceptable mobility and on/off ratio as high as 104. The method offers the possibility of large-scale integrated SWNT electronics for mass production.
Coercivity of ledge-type L1-FePt/Fe nanocomposites with perpendicular magnetization
Authors: Goll D. , Breitling A.
Published: February 2009

Exchange-coupled ledge-type L10-FePt/Fe composite systems with out-of-plane anisotropy composed of nanostructured L10-FePt films covered by Fe are prepared to analyze the influence of the soft magnetic layer thickness on the magnetic properties. By the soft magnetic layer thickness dFe the coercivity can be tailored according to a 1/dFe1.38 relation. This result can be used to realize recording media with coercivities in the range which are afforded by conventional write heads.
Energy-band parameters of atomic layer deposited Al2O3 and HfO2 on InxGa1−xAs
Authors: Huang M. L. , Chang Y. C. , Chang Y. H. , Lin T. D. , Kwo J. , Hong M.
Published: February 2009

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) combined with reflection electron energy loss spectroscopy (REELS) were used to determine the energy-band parameters, valence-band offsets ΔEV, conduction-band offsets ΔEC, and energy-band gaps Eg, of the atomic layer deposited (ALD) Al2O3 and HfO2 on InxGa1−xAs (x=0, 0.15, 0.25, and 0.53). Using REELS, Eg values of the ALD-Al2O3 and –HfO2 were estimated to be 6.77 and 5.56±0.05 eV, respectively. The ΔEV’s were determined by measuring the core level to valence band maximum binding energy difference from the XPS spectra. The ΔEC’s were then extracted from ΔEV’s and the energy-band gaps of the oxides and InxGa1−xAs, and are in good agreement with those estimated from the Fowler–Nordheim tunneling. The ΔEC’s and ΔEV’s are larger than 1.5 and 2.5 eV, respectively, for all the ALD-oxide/InxGa1−xAs samples.
Experiments show blockading interaction of Rydberg atoms over long distances
Authors: Schwarzschild Bertram
Published: February 2009

The demonstration that one highly excited atom can inhibit the excitation of another far away holds promise for quantum computing with neutral atoms.
Ocean acidification impairs olfactory discrimination and homing ability of a marine fish
Authors: Munday Philip L. , Dixson Danielle L. , Donelson Jennifer M. , Jones Geoffrey P. , Pratchett Morgan S. , Devitsina Galina V. , Døving Kjell B.
Published: February 2009

The persistence of most coastal marine species depends on larvae finding suitable adult habitat at the end of an offshore dispersive stage that can last weeks or months. We tested the effects that ocean acidification from elevated levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO
2
) could have on the ability of larvae to detect olfactory cues from adult habitats. Larval clownfish reared in control seawater (pH 8.15) discriminated between a range of cues that could help them locate reef habitat and suitable settlement sites. This discriminatory ability was disrupted when larvae were reared in conditions simulating CO
2
-induced ocean acidification. Larvae became strongly attracted to olfactory stimuli they normally avoided when reared at levels of ocean pH that could occur
ca.
2100 (pH 7.8) and they no longer responded to any olfactory cues when reared at pH levels (pH 7.6) that might be attained later next century on a business-as-usual carbon-dioxide emissions trajectory. If acidification continues unabated, the impairment of sensory ability will reduce population sustainability of many marine species, with potentially profound consequences for marine diversity.
Kernel energy method applied to vesicular stomatitis virus nucleoprotein
Authors: Huang Lulu , Massa Lou , Karle Jerome
Published: February 2009

The kernel energy method (KEM) is applied to the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) nucleoprotein (PDB ID code
2QVJ
). The calculations employ atomic coordinates from the crystal structure at 2.8-Å resolution, except for the hydrogen atoms, whose positions were modeled by using the computer program HYPERCHEM. The calculated KEM ab initio limited basis Hartree-Fock energy for the full 33,175 atom molecule (including hydrogen atoms) is obtained. In the KEM, a full biological molecule is represented by smaller “kernels” of atoms, greatly simplifying the calculations. Collections of kernels are well suited for parallel computation. VSV consists of five similar chains, and we obtain the energy of each chain. Interchain hydrogen bonds contribute to the interaction energy between the chains. These hydrogen bond energies are calculated in Hartree-Fock (HF) and Møller-Plesset perturbation theory to second order (MP2) approximations by using 6–31G** basis orbitals. The correlation energy, included in MP2, is a significant factor in the interchain hydrogen bond energies.
Platelet Adhesion under Flow
Authors: RUGGERI ZAVERIO M.
Published: February 2009

Platelet‐adhesive mechanisms play a well‐defined role in hemostasis and thrombosis, but evidence continues to emerge for a relevant contribution to other pathophysiological processes, including inflammation, immune‐mediated responses to microbial and viral pathogens, and cancer metastasis. Hemostasis and thrombosis are related aspects of the response to vascular injury, but the former protects from bleeding after trauma, while the latter is a disease mechanism. In either situation, adhesive interactions mediated by specific membrane receptors support the initial attachment of single platelets to cellular and extracellular matrix constituents of the vessel wall and tissues. In the subsequent steps of thrombus growth and stabilization, adhesive interactions mediate platelet‐to‐platelet cohesion (i.e., aggregation) and anchoring to the fibrin clot. A key functional aspect of platelets is their ability to circulate in a quiescent state surveying the integrity of the inner vascular surface, coupled to a prompt reaction wherever alterations are detected. In many respects, therefore, platelet adhesion to vascular wall structures, to one another, or to other blood cells are facets of the same fundamental biological process. The adaptation of platelet‐adhesive functions to the effects of blood flow is the main focus of this review.
An essential role for p120-catenin in Src- and Rac1-mediated anchorage-independent cell growth
Authors: Dohn Michael R. , Brown Meredith V. , Reynolds Albert B.
Published: February 2009

p120-catenin regulates epithelial cadherin stability and has been suggested to function as a tumor suppressor. In this study, we used anchorage-independent growth (AIG), a classical in vitro tumorigenicity assay, to examine the role of p120 in a different context, namely oncogene-mediated tumorigenesis. Surprisingly, p120 ablation by short hairpin RNA completely blocked AIG induced by both Rac1 and Src. This role for p120 was traced to its activity in suppression of the RhoA–ROCK pathway, which appears to be essential for AIG. Remarkably, the AIG block associated with p120 ablation was completely reversed by inhibition of the downstream RhoA effector ROCK. Harvey-Ras (H-Ras)–induced AIG was also dependent on suppression of the ROCK cascade but was p120 independent because its action on the pathway occurred downstream of p120. The data suggest that p120 modulates oncogenic signaling pathways important for AIG. Although H-Ras bypasses p120, a unifying theme for all three oncogenes is the requirement to suppress ROCK, which may act as a gatekeeper for the transition to anchorage independence.
Nosocomial Infection, Length of Stay, and Time-Dependent Bias
Authors: Beyersmann Jan , Kneib Thomas , Schumacher Martin , Gastmeier Petra
Published: February 2009

Nosocomial pneumonia and its impact on length of stay are major healthcare concerns. From an epidemiological perspective, nosocomial pneumonia is a time-dependent event. Any statistical analysis that does not explicitly model this time dependency will be biased. The bias is not redeemed by adjusting for baseline information.
Acupuncture and Auricular Acupressure in Relieving Menopausal Hot Flashes of Bilaterally Ovariectomized Chinese Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhou Jue , Qu Fan , Sang Xisheng , Wang Xiaotong , Nan Rui
Published: February 2009

The objective of this study is to explore the effects of acupuncture and auricular acupressure in relieving menopausal hot flashes of bilaterally ovariectomized Chinese women. Between May 2006 and March 2008, 46 bilaterally ovariectomized Chinese women were randomized into an acupuncture and auricular acupressure group (n = 21) and a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) group (Tibolone, n = 25). Each patient was given a standard daily log and was required to record the frequency and severity of hot flashes and side effects of the treatment felt daily, from 1 week before the treatment started to the fourth week after the treatment ended. The serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), LH and E2 were detected before and after the treatment. After the treatment and the follow‐up, both the severity and frequency of hot flashes in the two groups were relieved significantly when compared with pre‐treatment (P <  .05). There was no significant difference in the severity of hot flashes between them after treatment (P >  .05), while after the follow‐up, the severity of hot flashes in the HRT group was alleviated more. After the treatment and the follow‐up, the frequency of menopausal hot flashes in the HRT group was reduced more (P <  .05). After treatment, the levels of FSH decreased significantly and the levels of E2 increased significantly in both groups (P <  .05), and they changed more in the HRT group (P <  .05). Acupuncture and auricular acupressure can be used as alternative treatments to relieve menopausal hot flashes for those bilaterally ovariectomized women who are unable or unwilling to receive HRT.
Alstonine as an Antipsychotic: Effects on Brain Amines and Metabolic Changes
Authors: Linck Viviane M. , Herrmann Ana P. , Piato Ângelo L. , Detanico Bernardo C. , Figueiró Micheli , Flório Jorge , Iwu Maurice M. , Okunji Christopher O. , Leal Mirna B. , Elisabetsky Elaine
Published: February 2009

Managing schizophrenia has never been a trivial matter. Furthermore, while classical antipsychotics induce extrapyramidal side effects and hyperprolactinaemia, atypical antipsychotics lead to diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, and weight gain. Moreover, even with newer drugs, a sizable proportion of patients do not show significant improvement. Alstonine is an indole alkaloid identified as the major component of a plant‐based remedy used in Nigeria to treat the mentally ill. Alstonine presents a clear antipsychotic profile in rodents, apparently with differential effects in distinct dopaminergic pathways. The aim of this study was to complement the antipsychotic profile of alstonine, verifying its effects on brain amines in mouse frontal cortex and striatum. Additionally, we examined if alstonine induces some hormonal and metabolic changes common to antipsychotics. HPLC data reveal that alstonine increases serotonergic transmission and increases intraneuronal dopamine catabolism. In relation to possible side effects, preliminary data suggest that alstonine does not affect prolactin levels, does not induce gains in body weight, but prevents the expected fasting‐induced decrease in glucose levels. Overall, this study reinforces the proposal that alstonine is a potential innovative antipsychotic, and that a comprehensive understanding of its neurochemical basis may open new avenues to developing newer antipsychotic medications.
The effects of scattering-layer composition, animal size, and numerical density on the frequency response of volume backscatter
Authors: Benoit-Bird Kelly J.
Published: February 2009

Benoit-Bird, K. J. 2009. The effects of scattering-layer composition, animal size, and numerical density on the frequency response of volume backscatter. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 582–593. Land-associated, sound-scattering layers of mesopelagic micronekton surround the Hawaiian Islands. These animals undergo diel migrations during which they split into multiple, distinct layers that have differences in animal density, taxonomic composition, and size. A video-camera system capable of quantitatively estimating the biological constituency of the layers was combined with a four-frequency, vessel-mounted, echosounder system (38, 70, 120, and 200 kHz) to examine the effects of layer features on the frequency response of volume backscatter. Volume scattering was correlated with animal density at all frequencies, but the effects of animal length and layer composition were frequency-specific. Only scattering at 70 kHz matched the predictions of volume scattering based on the mean echo strengths and densities estimated from camera profiles, suggesting different scattering mechanisms at other frequencies. Differences in volume scattering between pairs of frequencies, however, did strongly correlate with animal length and layer composition and could be used as measures of the biological properties of layers. Applying this technique to the data shows strong partitioning of habitat by taxa and animal size in space and time, indicating the importance of competition in structuring the community.
Oxygen consumption, ammonia excretion and protein use in response to thermal changes in juvenile Atlantic salmon Salmo salar
Authors: Kieffer J. D. , Wakefield A. M.
Published: February 2009

Experiments were designed to examine the effects of various temperature challenges on oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion rates and protein utilization in juvenile Atlantic salmon Salmo salar. Fish acclimated to 15° C were acutely and abruptly exposed to either 20 or 25° C for a period of 3 h. To simulate a more environmentally relevant temperature challenge, a third group of fish was exposed to a gradual increase in temperature from 15 to 20° C over a period of 3 h (c. 1·7° C h−1). Oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion rates were monitored before, during and after the temperature shift. From the ammonia excretion and oxygen consumption rates, protein utilization rates were calculated. Acute temperature changes (15–20° C or 15–25° C) caused large and immediate increases in the oxygen consumption rates. When the temperature was gradually changed (i.e. 1·7° C h−1), however, the rates of oxygen consumption and ammonia excretion were only marginally altered. When fish were exposed to warmer temperatures (i.e. 15–20° C or 15–25° C) protein use generally remained at pre‐exposure (15° C) levels. A rapid transfer back to 15° C (20–15° C or 25–15° C) generally increased protein use in S. salar. These results indicate that both the magnitude and the rate of temperature change are important in describing the physiological response in juvenile salmonids.
Post‐release and pre‐spawning behaviour of simulated escaped adult rainbow trout Oncorhynhus mykiss in Lake Övre Fryken, Sweden
Authors: Lindberg M. , Rivinoja P. , Eriksson L.‐O. , AlanÄrÄ A.
Published: February 2009

Using radio telemetry, the present study simulated the escape of 48 adult rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss from a net‐cage fish farm in the Lake Övre Fryken, Sweden. The post‐release dispersal of O. mykiss was fast, showed long‐range dispersal behaviour, low winter survival and lacked the ability to find suitable spawning habitats. Thus, the present study suggested that reproducing for the first time may be an obstacle to the establishment of escaped farmed O. mykiss.
Migratory timing, marine survival and growth of anadromous brown troutSalmo truttain the River Imsa, Norway
Authors: Jonsson B. , Jonsson N.
Published: February 2009

The aim of the paper was to study sea migration, growth and survival of brown troutSalmo truttaof the River Imsa, 1976–2005. The migratoryS. truttawere individually tagged and fish leaving or entering the river were monitored daily in traps located near the river mouth. The mean annual duration of the sea sojourn was 6–9 months for first‐time migrants moving to sea between January and June. It was 8–18 months for those migrating to sea between July and December. Veteran migrants stayed 12 months or less at sea and most returned to the river in August. Early ascending fish stayed the longest in fresh water because most returned to sea in April to May. The day number of 50% cumulative smolt descent correlated negatively with mean water temperature in February to March and the February North Atlantic Oscillation index (NAOI). Mean annual sea growth during the first 2 years after smolting was higher forS. truttaspending the winter at sea than those wintering in the River Imsa. First year’s sea growth was lower forS. truttadescending in spring than autumn. For first‐time migrants, it correlated negatively with the February NAOI of the smolt year. Sea survival was higher for spring than autumn descending first‐time migratoryS. truttawith a maximum in May (14·9%). Number of anadromousS. truttareturning to the river increased linearly with the size of the cohort moving to sea, with no evidence of density‐dependent sea mortality. Sea survival ofS. truttasmolts moving to sea between January and June correlated positively both with the annual number of AtlanticSalmo salarsmolts, the specific growth rate at sea, and time of seaward migration in spring. This is the first study indicating how environmental factors at the time of seaward migration influence the sea survival ofS. trutta.
Deep‐diving behaviour of a whale shark Rhincodon typus during long‐distance movement in the western Indian Ocean
Authors: Brunnschweiler J. M. , Baensch H. , Pierce S. J. , Sims D. W.
Published: February 2009

A whale shark Rhincodon typus satellite tagged off the coast of Mozambique showed a highly directional movement across the Mozambique Channel and around the southern tip of Madagascar, a minimum distance of 1200 km in 87 days. Dives to depths well into the mesopelagic and bathypelagic zones (1286 m maximum depth) were recorded in a bathymetrically non‐constraining habitat. The water temperature range recorded during the fish’s movement was 3·4–29·9° C.
Treatment of microcystic lymphangioma with OK‐432 after intralesional excision
Authors: YABE Tetsuji , TAKAHASHI Makoto
Published: February 2009

Microcystic lymphangioma is difficult to treat with sclerotherapy or surgical resection alone. It is impossible to inject sclerosing agents into multiple cysts and surgical resection may sacrifice neighboring organs. We report a case of clinically regressed microcystic lymphangioma by sclerotherapy with OK‐432 after intralesional excision. This is an alternative effective method in the treatment of microcystic lymphangioma. However, because histological examination revealed remaining lymphangioma, the possibility of recurrence remains.
Transepithelial activation of human leukocytes by probiotics and commensal bacteria: Role of Enterobacteriaceae‐type endotoxin
Authors: Baeuerlein Annette , Ackermann Stefanie , Parlesak Alexandr
Published: February 2009

The goal of the current study was to clarify whether commercially available probiotics induce greater trans‐epithelial activation of human leukocytes than do commensal, food‐derived and pathogenic bacteria and to identify the compounds responsible for this activation. Eleven different bacterial strains, and some of their pathogen‐associated molecular patterns, were incubated apically on a confluent layer of intestinal epithelial cells (Caco‐2), which were basolaterally co‐cultured with human mononuclear leukocytes. Only Gram‐negative bacteria having Enterobacteriaceae‐type endotoxin (commensal Escherichia coli K12, probiotic E. coli Nissle, EPEC) induced basolateral production of TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL 6, 8, and 10. Gram‐positive probiotics (Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp.) had virtually no effect. In addition, commensals (Enterococcus faecalis, Bacteroides vulgatus) and food fermenters (Lactobacillus spp.) did not stimulate leukocytes transepithelially. Endotoxin from E. coli and Salmonella enterica Typhimurium induced comparable transepithelial stimulation of leukocytes, but not endotoxin from B. vulgatus or lipoteichoic acid from E. faecalis. Endotoxin‐binding agents (polymyxin, colistin) completely abrogated transepithelial activation of leukocytes. Enterobacteriaceae‐type endotoxin is a crucial factor in transepithelial stimulation of leukocytes, regardless of whether it is produced by probiotics or other bacteria. Hence, transepithelial stimulation of leukocytes’ innate immune response seems to not be linked to the health‐promoting effects of probiotics.
Application of 1H NMR‐based metabonomics in the study of metabolic profiling of human hepatocellular carcinoma and liver cirrhosis
Authors: Gao Hongchang , Lu Qiang , Liu Xia , Cong Hui , Zhao Liangcai , Wang Huimin , Lin Donghai
Published: February 2009

1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)‐based metabonomics was used to characterize metabolic profiles of liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We found compared to healthy humans, LC and HCC sera had higher levels of acetate, N‐acetylglycoproteins, pyruvate, glutamine, α‐ketoglutarate, glycerol, tyrosine, 1‐methylhistidine and phenylalanine, together with lower levels of low‐density lipoprotein, isoleucine, valine, acetoacetate, creatine, choline and unsaturated lipids. Scores plot of pattern recognition analysis were capable of distinguishing LC and HCC patients from healthy humans. These results indicate that serum NMR spectra combined with pattern recognition analysis techniques offer an efficient, convenient way of depicting tumor biochemistry, which may be of great benefit to early diagnosis of human malignant diseases using single blood samples. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 782–785)
Parallel underexpression of kallikrein 5 and kallikrein 7 mRNA in breast malignancies
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Liu Jinzhu , Wang Yuli , Zhang Lina , Ning Liansheng , Feng Yumei
Published: February 2009

Kallikrein (KLK) 5 and KLK7 were reported to be overexpressed in several cancers, but underexpressed in prostate and breast cancers. However, the expression levels of KLK5 and KLK7 in benign breast tissues and metastases, and the relationship between KLK5 and KLK7, have not been reported. In addition, the value of KLK5 and KLK7 in the diagnosis and prognosis prediction of breast cancer patients is far from clear. To further determine their role and clinical significance in breast cancer and to explore the relationship between KLK5 and KLK7, the mRNA levels of KLK5 and KLK7 in normal breast tissues, benign breast tissues, primary tumors, and lymph node metastases were detected by real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and microarray. The relationship between KLK5 and KLK7 expression and clinicopathological parameters, and the correlation between the mRNA levels of KLK5 and KLK7 as well as the 5′‐uncoding regions of KLK5 and KLK7 were analyzed. The mRNA levels of KLK5 and KLK7 were both downregulated in breast cancers relative to normal and benign tissues, and downregulated in metastases compared to primary cancers. Underexpression of KLK5 and KLK7 was correlated with postmenopausal status and positive estrogen receptor status. The mRNA levels of KLK5 and KLK7 were positively correlated in breast malignancies. Moreover, four homologous sequences and 10 transcription factors as potential regulators were found on the control regions of both KLK5 and KLK7. Thus, KLK5 and KLK7 were underexpressed in parallel, potentially with the same regulation pathways, in breast malignancies, which might contribute to the carcinogenesis and development of breast cancer. They are potential biomarkers for breast cancer. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 601–607)
Climate change and its impact on the forests of Kilimanjaro
Authors: Hemp Andreas
Published: February 2009

Cloud forests are of great importance in the hydrological functioning of watersheds in subhumid East Africa. However, the montane forests of Mt. Kilimanjaro are heavily threatened by global change impacts. Based on an evaluation of over 1500 vegetation plots and interpretation of satellite imagery from 1976 and 2000, land‐cover changes on Kilimanjaro were evaluated and their impact on the water balance estimated. While the vanishing glaciers of Kilimanjaro attract broad interest, the associated increase of frequency and intensity of fires on the slopes of Kilimanjaro is less conspicuous but ecologically far more significant. These climate change‐induced fires have lead to changes in species composition and structure of the forests and to a downward shift of the upper forest line by several hundred metres. During the last 70 years, Kilimanjaro has lost nearly one‐third of its forest cover, in the upper areas caused by fire, on the lower forest border mainly caused by clearing. The loss of 150 km2 of cloud forest – the most effective source in the upper montane and subalpine fog interception zone – caused by fire during the last three decades means a considerable reduction in water yield. In contrast to common belief, global warming does not necessarily cause upward migration of plants and animals. On Kilimanjaro the opposite trend is under way, with consequences more harmful than those due to the loss of the showy ice cap of Africa’s highest mountain.
Impact of climate variability on vegetative cover in the Butana area of Sudan
Authors: Elhag Muna , Walker Sue
Published: February 2009

Climate variability has an impact on the renewable natural resources. This impact is strong in regions with a delicate balance between climate and ecosystem, like the Sahelian regions. Rainfall is the most important climatic factor influencing livelihoods in Butana, north‐eastern part of Sudan. All people and their livestock depend on the amount of rainfall that falls and supports plant growth. Butana area experienced severe drought in 1984, 1990 and 2000. Linear relationships between the long‐term rainfall and AVHRR/NDVI data were developed for four separate zones in the Butana area. There is a significant correlation between peak NDVI (beginning of September) and cumulative rainfall for July and August, but weak relationships resulted when annual rainfall and cumulative NDVI were used. This is because the NDVI reached a plateau as the rainfall increased, then it remained constant despite further increases in rainfall. The departure from the long‐term average of NDVI for each pixel was calculated using the departure average vegetation method. The area had a high percentage of departure during the drought years and the NDVI recovered during the following year when the rainfall was above the average. It can be noted that the area adjacent to the irrigated scheme showed considerable decrease in NDVI. This may be due to overexploitation by the nomads during the drought year.
Drivers of ecosystem change and their impacts on human well‐being in Lake Victoria basin
Authors: Odada Eric O. , Ochola Washington O. , Olago Dan O.
Published: February 2009

To offer an increased understanding of the spatial patterns, temporal, social and physical predictors of the conversion and transformations of land use in Lake Victoria basin, an assessment of proximate and underlying forces is presented. This study discusses key theoretical underpinnings for the manifold linkages existing between selected drivers of land‐use changes around the basin and their consequences on human well‐being. Using a meta‐analytical research design, the paper analyses ecosystems level cases of the causes of land use and cover changes in the basin, to determine any spatio‐temporal or institutional patterns and dynamics. A suite of recurrent core variables has been identified to influence land use and cover changes in the basin. The most prominent of these at the underlying category are climatic factors, economic factors, institutions, national and regional policies, population growth and other remote influences. At the proximate level, these factors drive cropland expansion, overgrazing, infrastructure extension and rates of land degradation. These are supported by empirical evidence from the basin. This assessment is crucial for appropriate local and transboundary policy interventions, which have to be fine‐tuned to the locale‐specific dynamic patterns associated with the inherent ecosystems changes.
Prevalence of childhood sexual abuse among Mexican adolescents
Authors: Pineda‐Lucatero A. G. , Trujillo‐Hernández B. , Millán‐Guerrero R. O. , Vásquez C.
Published: February 2009

Background  To determine the characteristics and prevalence of previous child sexual abuse among a group of Mexican junior high school students.

Methods  A total of 1067 adolescents of both genders were selected to fill out a survey about child sexual abuse.

Results  The prevalence of child sexual abuse was 18.7% (n = 200). It was more frequent in girls (58%) than in boys (42%). Sexual abuse involved physical contact in 75% of those cases reporting abuse. The aggressors were neighbours (50.3%), relatives (36.8%) and strangers (13.9%). Abuse was committed through deception in 90% of the cases and involved physical mistreatment in 10% of the cases. Of the victims, 14.4% had spoken about the problem and 3.7% had taken legal action. And 9.6% of those surveyed stated that they required psychological counselling.

Conclusions  In the population studied, the prevalency of child sexual abuse was greater than that reported in Mexico City (4.3–8.4%), although it was similar to that found in the Spanish child population (15–23%). The risk of sexual abuse is greater for girls and the principal aggressors are male neighbours, family friends and relatives; the abuse is committed in the home of the aggressor or the victim and very few cases are reported to the authorities.
‘Jumping through hoops’: parents' experiences with seeking respite care for children with special needs
Authors: Doig J. L. , McLennan J. D. , Urichuk L.
Published: February 2009

Background  Respite care may act as a means to reduce stress and fatigue in people caring for a dependent who has a disability. Despite this, a variety of barriers may exist to obtaining such services. This study explored caregivers' experiences seeking respite care for their children with special needs within a province in Canada.

Methods  Caregivers were recruited from two agencies providing respite care for children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and other mental health and developmental difficulties. In total, 10 caregivers participated in in‐depth individual interviews. A constructivist grounded theory approach was employed in the design and analysis of the data.

Results  Caregivers discussed their frustrations with the process of finding and obtaining respite care, a course of action described as ‘jumping through hoops’. This construct was composed of subcategories emphasizing the complexity of ‘navigating the system’, the bidirectional process of ‘meeting the requirements’ and the challenges of ‘getting help’.

Conclusions  The collective experiences of these caregivers point to the need for more flexibility and co‐ordination of respite care services for children with special needs.
Effects of fully established Sure Start Local Programmes on 3‐year‐old children and their families living in England: a quasi‐experimental observational study
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: February 2009

.
 
Melhuish E.,
Belsky J.,
Leyland A. H.,
Barnes J. &
(
2008
)

,
372
,
1641
–
1647
.
 
DOI: 10.1016/S0140‐6736(08)61687‐6
.

Background  Sure Start Local Programmes (SSLPs) are area‐based interventions to improve services for young children and their families in deprived communities, promote health and development, and reduce inequalities. We therefore investigated whether SSLPs affect the well‐being of 3‐year‐old children and their families.

Methods  In a quasi‐experimental observational study, we compared 5883 3‐year‐old children and their families from 93 disadvantaged SSLP areas with 1879 3‐year‐old children and their families from 72 similarly deprived areas in England who took part in the Millennium Cohort Study. We studied 14 outcomes – children's immunizations, accidents, language development, positive and negative social behaviours and independence; parenting risk; home‐learning environment; father's involvement; maternal smoking, body‐mass index and life satisfaction; family's service use; and mother's rating of area.

Findings  After we controlled for background factors, we noted beneficial effects associated with the programmes for five of 14 outcomes. Children in the SSLP areas showed better social development than those in the non‐SSLP areas, with more positive social behaviour (mean difference 0.45, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.80, P = 0.01) and greater independence (0.32, 0.18 to 0.47, P < 0.0001). Families in SSLP areas showed less negative parenting (−0.90, −1.11 to −0.69, P < 0.0001) and provided a better home‐learning environment (1.30, 0.75 to 1.86, P < 0.0001). These families used more services for supporting child and family development than those not living in SSLP areas (0.98, 0.86 to 1.09, P < 0.0001). Effects of SSLPs seemed to apply to all subpopulations and SSLP areas.

Interpretation  Children and their families benefited from living in SSLP areas. The contrast between these and previous findings on the effect of SSLPs might indicate increased exposure to programmes that have become more effective. Early interventions can improve the life chances of young children living in deprived areas.
The role of welfare state principles and generosity in social policy programmes for public health: an international comparative study
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: February 2009

.
 
Lundberg O.,
Yngwe M.,
Stjärne M.,
Elstad J.,
Ferrarini T.,
Kangas O.,
Norström T.,
Palme J.,
Fritzell J. & for
(
2008
)

,
372
,
1633
–
1640
.
 
DOI: 10.1016/S0140‐6736(08)61686‐4
.

Background  Many important social determinants of health are also the focus for social policies. Welfare states contribute to the resources available for their citizens through cash transfer programmes and subsidized services. Although all rich nations have welfare programmes, there are clear cross‐national differences with respect to their design and generosity. These differences are evident in national variations in poverty rates, especially among children and elderly people. We investigated to what extent variations in family and pension policies are linked to infant mortality and old‐age excess mortality.

Methods  Infant mortality rates and old‐age excess mortality rates were analysed in relation to social policy characteristics and generosity. We did pooled cross‐sectional time‐series analyses of 18 Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development countries during the period 1970–2000 for family policies and 1950–2000 for pension policies.

Findings  Increased generosity in family policies that support dual‐earner families is linked with lower infant mortality rates, whereas the generosity in family policies that support more traditional families with gainfully employed men and homemaking women is not. An increase by one percentage point in dual‐earner support lowers infant mortality by 0.04 deaths per 1000 births. Generosity in basic security type of pensions is linked to lower old‐age excess mortality, whereas the generosity of earnings‐related income security pensions is not. An increase by one percentage point in basic security pensions is associated with a decrease in the old age excess mortality by 0.02 for men as well as for women.

Interpretation  The ways in which social policies are designed, as well as their generosity, are important for health because of the increase in resources that social policies entail. Hence, social policies are of major importance for how we can tackle the social determinants of health.
Constitutive expression of Bcl-2 in the haematopoietic compartment alters the metabolism of iron and increases resistance to mycobacterial infection
Authors: Flórido M , Borges M , Rodrigues P , Vale-Costa S , Salomé Gomes M , Appelberg R
Published: February 2009

Mice expressing a vav-bcl-2 transgene were tested for their resistance to an experimental infection with Mycobacterium avium. When compared with control littermates, transgenic mice exhibited an increase in the resistance to infection which was independent of B or T lymphocytes and did not require the production of gamma interferon. Macrophages from both control and transgenic mice showed equal permissiveness to M. avium growth in vitro. Finally, transgenic mice expressed diminished circulating iron levels which correlated with the increased resistance to infection.
Cell contact, prostaglandin E2 and transforming growth factor beta 1 play non-redundant roles in human mesenchymal stem cell induction of CD4+CD25Highforkhead box P3+ regulatory T cells
Authors: English K , Ryan J M , Tobin L , Murphy M J , Barry F P , Mahon B P
Published: February 2009

Adult human mesenchymal stromal or stem cells (MSC) can differentiate into a variety of cell types and are candidate cellular therapeutics in regenerative medicine. Surprisingly, these cells also display multiple potent immunomodulatory capabilities, including allosuppression, making allogeneic cell therapy a possibility. The exact mechanisms involved in regulatory T cell induction by allogeneic human MSC was examined, using purified CD4+ populations and well-characterized bone marrow-derived adult human MSC. Allogeneic MSC were shown to induce forkhead box P3 (FoxP3)+ and CD25+ mRNA and protein expression in CD4+ T cells. This phenomenon required direct contact between MSC and purified T cells, although cell contact was not required for MSC induction of FoxP3 expression in an unseparated mononuclear cell population. In addition, through use of antagonists and neutralizing antibodies, MSC-derived prostaglandins and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 were shown to have a non-redundant role in the induction of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ T cells. Purified CD4+CD25+ T cells induced by MSC co-culture expressed TGF-β1 and were able to suppress alloantigen-driven proliferative responses in mixed lymphocyte reaction. These data clarify the mechanisms of human MSC-mediated allosuppression, supporting a sequential process of regulatory T cell induction involving direct MSC contact with CD4+ cells followed by both prostaglandin E2 and TGF-β1 expression. Overall, this study provides a rational basis for ongoing clinical studies involving allogeneic MSC.
Innate immunity and inflammation – two facets of the same anti-infectious reaction
Authors: Si-Tahar M , Touqui L , Chignard M
Published: February 2009

Innate immunity is the host's first line of defence against infection. In this review, we present the innate immune response implicated in three examples of pulmonary infection of viral, fungal and bacterial origin. We show that this defence against infection can be a double-edged sword. Thus, the same cells, molecules and mechanisms involved in this protective process can also be involved in deleterious inflammation. A delicate balance between immunity and inflammation is therefore required, making it possible to fight pathogens effectively while limiting inflammation that might be damaging to the host.
Spatial and temporal distribution of fish in a small lowland stream
Authors: IBBOTSON A. , ARMITAGE P. , BEAUMONT W. , LADLE M. , WELTON S.
Published: February 2009

Abstract  The fish fauna and habitat characteristics in five reaches of a small lowland stream were studied through the summer and winter of one year. All species densities, except Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., were correlated with either instream or outstream cover, reaffirming the importance of cover to maintain the local abundance of fish populations. There were significant differences between reaches in the density of all the fish species studied, with the exception of the larger size group of dace. Leuciscus leuciscus (L.), and between sampling times for salmon, dace and eel, Anguilla anguilla (L.). There were significant differences between reaches for all the measured habitat variables apart from instream cover, and between sampling times for velocity. instream cover, and substrate particle size, but not depth, width:depth ratio and outstream cover. The implications of these variations for fish stock assessment and predictive fish habitat models such as PHABSIM and habitat suitability indices are discussed.
Regulating fish movements in the Single European Market: the scope for more restrictive measures under national law
Authors: HOWARTH W. , McGILLIVRAY D.
Published: February 2009

Abstract  Substantial alterations to the legal controls over fish movements have been necessary to implement the Single European Market which came into force on 1 January 1993. This seeks to liberalize trade in fish and fish products whilst avoiding ecological damage, the spread of disease and the commercial damage this may cause. The new regime governing fish movements into and within the European Union under Directive 91/67/EEC, as implemented in England and Wales, is described. Remaining national provisions based on ecological concerns (principally, section 30 of the Salmon and Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975) are examined. Derogations from the principle of freedom of trade within the European Union on environmental protection grounds are assessed, and the interaction between legal restrictions based on pathological and ecological grounds is discussed.