bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevention of sternal wound infections with locally administered gentamicin
Authors: EKLUND ANNE M.
Published: October 2007

Despite modern surgical techniques and our knowledge of the pathogenesis of surgical site infections (SSIs) and the use of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis, the incidence of SSIs has not decreased, but has remained at the same level. More effective preventive methods are thus needed and will likely become even more important in the future due to older and sicker patients, the population becoming increasingly obese, type II diabetes becoming more common, and the emergence of resistant bacteria. The use of local antimicrobial prophylaxis was studied. The study population comprised 557 patients who underwent elective CABG. The patients were randomized and patients in the study group received a 10 cm×10 cm gentamicin‐collagen implant. Postoperative SSI occurred in 11 of 272 patients (4.0%) in the study group and in 16 of 270 patients (5.9%) in the control group. This difference was not statistically significant (P=0.20). There were three cases of mediastinitis (1.1%) in the study group and five (1.9%) in the control group (P=0.47).
Activation of Src‐family tyrosine kinases in hyperproliferative epidermal disorders
Authors: Ayli Elias E. , Li Weijie , Brown Tamu T. , Witkiewicz Agnieszka , Elenitsas Rosalie , Seykora John T.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Src‐family tyrosine kinases (SFKs) are important regulators of keratinocyte growth and differentiation. In a broad range of cell types, persistent activation of SFKs correlates with increased cell proliferation. In this study, we determined if SFK activity is increased in cutaneous neoplasia and psoriasis, common hyperproliferative epidermal disorders.

Methods:  Formalin‐fixed tissue sections of unremarkable epidermis, psoriasis, actinic keratoses (AKs), squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCIS) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were subjected to immunohistochemical staining for activated SFKs.

Results:  All psoriasis specimens displayed significantly greater staining for activated SFKs than sections of unremarkable skin. In the psoriasis biopsies, the degree of epidermal hyperplasia was proportional to the level of activated SFK staining. All AKs, SCISs and SCCs exhibited more prominent staining than sections of unremarkable epidermis. No discernable difference in activated SFK staining was seen between AKs, SCIS and SCC specimens.

Conclusions:  This study shows increased staining of activated SFKs in human biopsy specimens of psoriasis and cutaneous neoplasia. These data provide direct evidence for increased activation of SFKs in the pathogenesis of hyperproliferative epidermal disorders.
Effects of AV119, a natural sugar from avocado, on Malassezia furfur invasiveness and on the expression of HBD‐2 and cytokines in human keratinocytes
Authors: Donnarumma Giovanna , Buommino Elisabetta , Baroni Adone , Auricchio Lucia , Filippis Anna De , Cozza Valentina , Msika Philippe , Piccardi Nathalie , Tufano Maria Antonietta
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  AV119 is a patented blend of two sugars from avocado that can induce human β‐defensin‐2 production by normal human keratinocytes. In this study, we analysed the effect of AV119 on growth and invasiveness of Malassezia furfur, a dimorphic, lipid‐dependent yeast that is part of the normal human cutaneous commensal flora. The ability to modulate the expression of the proinflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokines in normal human keratinocytes was also investigated. Microbiological assay demonstrated that this sugar induced the aggregation of yeast cells and inhibited the invasiveness of M. furfur, without affecting its growth. Real‐time PCR analysis demonstrated that AV119 was able to modulate the HBD‐2 response in treated keratinocytes, reaching a maximum after 48‐h treatment, and to induce the recovery of a satisfactory proinflammatory response in human keratinocytes. As AV119 can induce aggregation of yeast cells, thus inhibiting their penetration into the keratinocytes, the sugar could be used in the preparation of cosmetics or pharmacological drugs to inhibit colonization of the skin by pathogenic strains of M. furfur.
The fate of paternal mitochondria in marmoset pre‐implantation embryos
Authors: Luetjens C.M. , Wesselmann R.
Published: October 2007

Background  Sperm‐derived mitochondria are integrated into the oocyte at fertilization but seem to vanish during the early cleavage phase. The developmental potential of pre‐implantation embryos seems to be closely related to their ability to induce degeneration of these mitochondria, but the mechanisms underlying their loss of function are not yet understood. This study focuses on the fate of paternal mitochondria in pre‐implantation embryos.

Methods  Stimulation, collection and in vitro culture of oocytes from Callithrix jacchus, allows the study of the destiny of paternal mitochondria by utilizing immunostaining of pre‐implantation embryos, fluorescence and laserscanning microscopy. Live pre‐implantation embryos were stained with a fluorescence indicator reflecting mitochondrial membrane potential.

Results  Evidence indicating the loss of mitochondrial function was not found nor that apoptosis pathways were involved in the disappearance of paternally derived mitochondria.

Conclusions  These findings may have implications for mitochondrially inherited diseases and could lead to new strategies for improving assisted reproduction.
Topical administration of simvastatin recovers alveolar bone loss in rats
Authors: Seto H. , Ohba H. , Tokunaga K. , Hama H. , Horibe M. , Nagata T.
Published: October 2007

Background and Objective:  Simvastatin, a cholesterol‐lowering drug, has been reported to show anabolic effects on bone metabolism. We examined the effects of simvastatin in vitro using cultured rat calvaria cells and in vivo using periodontitis‐induced rats.

Material and Methods:  Alkaline phosphatase activity and bone nodule formation were measured in cultured rat calvaria cells. Nylon ligature was placed around the maxillary molars of Fischer male rats for 20 d to induce alveolar bone resorption. After ligature removal, simvastatin was topically injected into the buccal gingivae for 70 d and then microcomputed tomography and histological examinations were performed.

Results:  Simvastatin maintained high alkaline phosphatase activity and increased bone nodule formation in rat calvaria cells in a dose‐dependent manner, showing that simvastatin increased and maintained a high level of osteoblastic function. Microcomputed tomography images revealed that treatment with simvastatin recovered the ligature‐induced alveolar bone resorption, showing a 46% reversal of bone height. Histological examination clarified that low‐mineralized alveolar bone was formed in simvastatin‐treated rats.

Conclusion:  These findings demonstrate that simvastatin has the potential to stimulate osteoblastic function and that topical administration of simvastatin may be effective for the recovery of alveolar bone loss in rats.
Modulation of gingival epithelial phenotypes by interactions with regionally defined populations of fibroblasts
Authors: Locke M. , Hyland P. L. , Irwin C. R. , Mackenzie I. C.
Published: October 2007

Background and Objective:  The unusual structure and functions of junctional epithelium, together with its pattern of migration in periodontal disease, raise interesting questions about the factors associated with the maintenance of its unique phenotype. To explore the effects of regionally differing fibroblast populations on the growth and patterns of differentiation of oral epithelia, this study used an organotypical in vitro model in an attempt to detect interactions occurring between populations of human oral fibroblasts and keratinocytes.

Material and Methods:  Keratinocytes and fibroblasts, isolated from the gingival region and periodontal ligament, were characterized by their patterns of growth and by their expression of known differentiation markers. Changes in cell behaviour and phenotypic marker expression were examined during in vitro passage as an indication of the maintenance of in vivo phenotypic traits. Using early passage cells, organotypical cultures were generated and patterns of epithelial growth and expression of phenotypic markers were examined.

Results:  Phenotypically different populations of junctional and oral‐gingival keratinocytes, and of oral‐gingival and periodontal ligament fibroblasts, were successfully isolated, cultured and characterized. In the organotypic culture system, oral‐gingival fibroblasts were found to have a markedly greater ability than periodontal ligament fibroblasts to support and maintain the growth of either type of epithelium. Shifts of epithelial phenotype were induced by different fibroblasts.

Conclusion:  Periodontal and gingival fibroblast subpopulations have differential effects on the growth and patterns of differentiation of oral and junctional epithelia. By modulating the epithelial phenotype, regionally differing fibroblasts can influence the stability and behaviour of the gingival attachment apparatus in health and disease.
Progression of periodontal disease and interleukin‐10 gene polymorphism
Authors: Cullinan M. P. , Westerman B. , Hamlet S. M. , Palmer J. E. , Faddy M. J. , Seymour G. J. , Middleton P. G. , Taylor J. J.
Published: October 2007

Background and Objective:  Interleukin‐10 is a key immunoregulatory cytokine that may be of significance in the immunopathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases such as periodontal disease. Molecular genetic studies have defined a number of haplotypes that may be associated with differing levels of interleukin‐10 secretion. The present study investigated the possible association between interleukin‐10 gene polymorphism and periodontal disease progression.

Material and Methods:  Genomic DNA was obtained from 252 adults who were part of a prospective longitudinal study on the progression of periodontal disease in a general adult Australian population. Single nucleotide polymorphisms at positions −592 and −1082 in the interleukin‐10 promoter were analysed using an induced heteroduplex methodology and used to determine interleukin‐10 promoter haplotypes in individual samples. Periodontitis progression was assessed by measuring probing depths and relative attachment levels at regular intervals over a 5‐year period. A generalized linear model was used to analyse the data, with age, gender, smoking status, interleukin‐1 genotype and Porphyromonas gingivalis included as possible confounders.

Results:  There was a significant (p ≈ 0.02) main effect of interleukin‐10 haplotypes, with individuals having either the ATA/ACC or the ACC/ACC genotype experiencing around 20% fewer probing depths of ≥ 4 mm compared to individuals with other genotypes. Age and smoking had significant (p < 0.001) additional effects.

Conclusion:  These data suggest that the interleukin‐10 genotype contributes to the progression of periodontal disease.
Effects of platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms on plasminogen activation by periodontal ligament and gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Agis H. , Bauer M. , Knebl G. , Watzek G. , Gruber R.
Published: October 2007

Background and Objective:  Platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms and components of the plasminogen activator system are expressed at higher levels during periodontal regeneration. Recombinant platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB is approved for the treatment of periodontal defects. In the present study we investigated the effect of platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms on the plasminogen activator system in periodontal fibroblasts.

Material and Methods:  Human periodontal ligament fibroblasts and gingival fibroblasts were exposed to platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms. Changes in urokinase‐type plasminogen activator, tissue‐type plasminogen activator, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐2 transcript levels by platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB were monitored with a quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Urokinase‐type plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 protein levels were assessed by immunoassays. The effects of platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB on mitogen‐activated protein kinase and phosphoinositol‐3 kinase/Akt signaling were investigated by western blot and inhibitor studies. Casein zymography and kinetic assays revealed the size and activity, respectively, of the plasminogen activators.

Results:  We found that incubation of periodontal ligament fibroblasts and gingival fibroblasts with platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB resulted in enhanced levels of urokinase‐type plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 transcripts, but not of tissue‐type plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐2. Platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB also increased urokinase‐type plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 release into the culture medium. Phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, p38, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase and Akt was observed in fibroblasts of both origin. Inhibition of phosphoinositol‐3 kinase signaling abrogated the platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB effect on plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 production. Casein zymography revealed enzymatic activity of the urokinase‐type plasminogen activator in cell‐conditioned media and lysates of periodontal ligament fibroblasts and gingival fibroblasts. Exposure of gingival fibroblasts, but not of periodontal ligament fibroblasts, to platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms moderately increased total plasminogen activation in the medium.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that periodontal ligament fibroblasts attempt to maintain an equilibrium of the plasminogen activator system in the presence of platelet‐derived growth factor isoforms.
Melatonin as an antibiotic: new insights into the actions of this ubiquitous molecule
Authors: Tekbas Omer Faruk , Ogur Recai , Korkmaz Ahmet , Kilic Abdullah , Reiter Russel J.
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  The incidence of serious infections caused by multidrug‐resistant gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria has been increasing rapidly worldwide despite advances in antibacterial therapy in the last two decades. Among multidrug‐resistant gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria, methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, carbapenem‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii are of great importance, because they have emerged as primary nosocomial pathogens in hospital outbreaks. In this study, we investigated whether melatonin has antibacterial effects against these microorganisms in vitro. The minimum inhibitory concentration of melatonin was determined using a standard microdilution method at 24 and 48 hr. Melatonin inhibited microbial growth at both 24 and 48 hr; but results showed that melatonin had antibacterial effects against these microorganisms after 48 hr of incubation in lower doses [concentrations between 31.25 to 125 μg/mL (0.13–0.53 mm)]. Also, it was determined that melatonin has a more potent antimicrobial effect on gram‐negative microorganism. Among possible mechanisms, it is concluded that melatonin showed antibacterial effects by reducing intracellular substrates.
Clinical efficacy of two toothbrushes with different bristles
Authors: Checchi Luigi , Montevecchi Marco , Gatto Rosaria M. , Moreschi Annalisa , Checchi Vittorio
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  Objective:  The purpose of this single‐blind clinical study was to evaluate the efficacy of an innovative manual toothbrush versus a traditional one.

Methods:  The toothbrushes were randomly assigned to 30 volunteers in a student population of the Dental School of the University of Bologna, Italy, divided into 15 test and 15 control subjects. A clinical examination assessing Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI) and buccal Gingival Recessions was performed at baseline, 3 and 6 months. During the baseline examination, each subject received dental debridment, oral hygiene instructions and a standard kit containing: three standard tubes of toothpaste, 1 hourglass (2 min) and one plaque disclosing solution; each subject of the test group received three innovative toothbrushes, while each subject of the control group received three traditional toothbrushes.

Results:  During the 6 months of observation both groups presented a PI and GI decrease. A more evident improvement of both indices was observed in the test group (PI P = 0.0001, GI P = 0.0001). The greatest part of recessions remained stable (0–3 months: 70% test group, 60% control group and 3–6 months: 86% test group, 94% control group). Some amplitude modifications (0.5 mm) were mainly detected in the first 3 months (control group χ2 = 17.55, P = 0.0001 and test group χ2 = 3.31, P = 0.07). They always increased in the control group and decreased in the study group.

Conclusions:  The innovative manual toothbrush is more likely to be effective in reducing PI and GI compared to the traditional one and widely safe on periodontal tissues during the period of observation.
Possible association between G-protein β3 subunit C825T polymorphism and antipsychotic-induced restless legs syndrome in schizophrenia
Authors: Kang Seung-Gul , Lee Heon-Jeong , Choi Jung-Eun , Park Jae-Hong , Lee Sang-Shin , Han Changsu , Kim Yong-Ku , Kim Seung-Hyun , Lee Min-Soo , Joe Sook-Haeng , Jung In-Kwa , Kim Leen
Published: October 2007

Objective:

The incidence of restless legs syndrome (RLS) is presumed to be higher among people with schizophrenia who take antipsychotic medication, most of which blocks the dopamine D2 receptor. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the G-protein β3subunit (GNB3) C825T polymorphism is associated with antipsychotic-induced RLS in schizophrenia.

Methods:

We examined 178 Korean patients with schizophrenia. All of the subjects were evaluated using the diagnostic criteria of the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group and the International Restless Legs Scale. Genotyping was performed for the C825T polymorphism in theGNB3gene.

Results:

The genotype distribution did not differ significantly between antipsychotic-induced RLS patients and patients who had no-RLS symptoms (χ2= 4.30,p= 0.116). The genotypes of the C825T single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) were classified into two groups: C+ (CC and CT genotypes) and C– (TT genotype). The presence of the C allele (C+) was associated with an increased likelihood of RLS (χ2= 4.14,p= 0.042; odds ratio = 2.56, 95% confidence interval = 1.02–6.47).

Conclusions:

These results suggest that the GNB3 C825T SNP is associated with RLS in schizophrenia. However, confirming this association requires future larger scale studies in which the effects of medication are strictly controlled.
John Milton's Politics, Republicanism and the Terms of Liberty
Authors: Cox Rosanna
Published: October 2007

Throughout the tumultuous events of the English Civil War, Commonwealth and Restoration periods, John Milton wrote texts which attempted to shape and activate the nation for their political destiny as free citizens in a nation of true believers. Milton's texts from the early 1640s onwards exhibit the constantly evolving nature of political dissent and the ways in which ‘republican speculations’ in the aftermath of the regicide are provisional, flexible and responsive to the urgent exigencies of defining the new regime and its actions against Charles I and his rule. Recent years have seen those working in intellectual history and the history of ideas re‐focus critical attention on Milton's political thought, trace his engagement with republican ideologies and discourses of the period, and explore the complex interactions between contemporary and classical ideas of statecraft. Such work by Quentin Skinner, Martin Dzelzainis and others has established the rich and diverse ideas and discourses which were made available and accessed in the service of both political polemic and apologia. This article will consider how such approaches have influenced our understanding of Milton's texts and ideas, and reflect on what, for Milton and his contemporaries, constituted liberty and the terms on which it could exist. Meditating on forms of government, and the best way to ensure the health and glory of the English nation, Milton's texts exhibit his complex and detailed engagements with classical authorities and neo‐Roman conceptions and legal definitions of tyranny, liberty and servitude, alongside notions of civic identity and political subjectivity.
Growth Hormone Does Not Alter CYP2A6 Activity in Growth Hormone‐Deficient Children
Authors: Sinués Blanca , Fanlo Ana , Vicente Jorge , Mayayo‐Sinués Esteban , Mayayo Esteban , Labarta Jose I. , Ferrandez‐Longás Angel
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  A large number of metabolic alterations are increasingly being treated with growth hormone. Despite the fact that growth hormone is known to be the main regulator of several hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes in rodents, few studies deal with the effect of growth hormone on hepatic enzyme activities in human beings. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of growth hormone replacement therapy for 4 weeks on CYP2A6 activity in children, because changes in this enzyme activity may have important therapeutic and toxic consequences. A total of 31 growth hormone‐deficient children (age range 4.1–13.1 years; mean age 9.88 ± 2.89 years) participated. The genotypes of CYP2A6 gene, CYP2A6*1A, CYP2A6*1B, CYP2A6*4, CYP2A6*1x2 and CYP2A6*9, were determined by polymerase chain reaction. To assess the enzyme activity, we used caffeine as a probe drug at two points in time: before starting growth hormone therapy (Day 0) and after 4 weeks of growth hormone therapy (Day A). Caffeine and metabolite concentrations in urine were assayed by high‐pressure liquid chromatography. The metabolite ratio 1,7‐dimethilxanthine to 1,7‐dimethylurate (17U/17X) served to indicate CYP2A6 activity. Median value and 95% confidence interval at baseline was 1.08 (0.98–1.24). The value after treatment was 1.08 (0.86–1.21). Data comparison between periods showed lack of statistically significant differences (P > 0.05). The relative change, measured by the ratio of medians and 90% confidence interval, was 1.02 (0.84–1.19). There were no significant differences when the ratio between genotype groups were compared. These results indicate that growth hormone replacement therapy of growth hormone‐deficient children for 4 weeks does not modify the CYP2A6 activity and hence the efficacy or toxicity of the CYP2A6 substrate compounds.
Rottlerin Induces Calcium Influx and Protein Degradation in Cultured Lenses Independent of Effects on Protein Kinase Cδ
Authors: Xu Shang‐Zhi
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  Rottlerin has been widely accepted as a specific inhibitor of protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ); however, recent data suggest that the specificity of this compound become a question. Herein, we address this issue using a lens organ culture system, as PKCδ might regulate the gap junction permeability in lens. Interestingly, we found that rottlerin induced the degradation of connexin50 more rapidly than that of PKCδ. Furthermore, comparison of rottlerin with a protonophore, carbonylcyanide‐4‐(trifluoromethoxy)‐phenylhydrazone (FCCP) that shares many characteristics with rottlerin, showed that both rottlerin and FCCP dramatically increased lens weight over time. This increase in lens weight was partially reversed by depletion of extracellular calcium with ethyleneglycoltetraacetic acid (EGTA) or by blocking L‐type calcium channels with verapamil, suggesting rottlerin may induce calcium influx. Indeed, the rapid degradation of connexin50 (but not PKCδ) induced by rottlerin and FCCP was blocked by EGTA. In addition, rottlerin and FCCP also induced degradation of connexin46, filensin, vimentin and CP49. In order to determine whether this protein degradation is associated with the decrease of ATP due to uncoupling mitochondria by rottlerin, ATP content in lenses with different treatments were examined. The result indicated that EGTA had no effect on lens ATP content. Taken together, these data suggest that rottlerin, like FCCP, induces calcium influx, leading to protein degradation and cleavage in the lens, and that this effect is unrelated to the inhibition of PKCδ. Thus, extreme caution must be taken when considering use of rottlerin as a PKCδ inhibitor.
Growth promotion and biological control of root‐knot nematodes in micropropagated banana during the nursery stage by treatment with specific bacterial strains
Authors: Rodríguez‐Romero A.S. , Badosa E. , Montesinos E. , Jaizme‐Vega M.C.
Published: October 2007

The effect of strains EPS291 and EPS817 of Pseudomonas fluorescens to improve plant growth and nutrition as well as to reduce root‐knot nematode in roots was investigated in micropropagated banana. Plantlets, cultured under commercial nursery conditions, were treated twice with bacteria after transplanting from in vitro conditions. Bacterial application was performed by drenching bacterial suspension containing approximately 108 CFU (colony‐forming units) g−1 of substrate. Both strains significantly increased aerial fresh weight, plant length and leaf area, while the effect on other growth parameters depended on the strain. N content was also significantly increased after both bacteria treatments. A second experiment was performed to determine the potential biocontrol effect against the root‐knot nematode Meloidogyne javanica. Following the same experimental conditions, Meloidogyne inoculum containing 10 500 nematodes was applied 15 days after the second bacteria treatment. At the end of the experiment, 135 days later, nematode reproduction in roots of bacterised bananas was significantly reduced. In both experiments, the inoculated bacteria colonised the root system and population levels in root, 5.5 months after transplanting were 6.8 × 103 to 1.6 × 104 CFU g−1 fresh weight of root. The potential use of this technology to improve hardening stages in banana plant production in commercial nurseries is discussed.
Varietal differences in mungbean (Vigna radiata) for growth, yield, toxicity symptoms and cadmium accumulation
Authors: Wahid A. , Ghani A.
Published: October 2007

Increased cadmium (Cd) contamination of soils resulting from industrial activities is critical to crop production. The objective of this study was to find varietal differences for foliar chlorosis and necrosis, growth and Cd accumulation in mungbean (Vigna radiata). Despite substantial varietal differences, increased Cd levels reduced the shoot and root dry weight and the number and area of leaves at different growth stages. Applied Cd stress produced the foliar symptoms such as marginal and intervein chlorosis and scattered necrotic spots on younger leaves while accelerating the senescence of older leaves. Slope of regression equation and correlations of shoot Cd content with foliar Cd toxicity revealed that leaf chlorosis was more damaging than necrosis. At maturity, number of pods per plant and seeds per pod were maximally reduced to 37% and 26%, while 100‐seed weight, seed yield and harvest index showed 61%, 79% and 54% reduction, respectively, as a result of Cd toxicity. Results suggested that although varietal difference exists, the accumulated Cd is mainly toxic to the mesophyll tissue, most probably by interfering with the uptake of essential nutrients, thereby reducing growth and yield at various stages. Therefore, selection programmes based on foliar toxicity criteria may be beneficial for better utilisation of Cd‐polluted soils.
A Compton-thick active galactic nucleus powering the hyperluminous infrared galaxy IRAS 00182−7112
Authors: Nandra K. , Iwasawa K.
Published: October 2007

We present X-ray observations of the hyperluminous infrared galaxy (HLIRG) IRAS 00182− 7112 obtained using the XMM–Newton EPIC camera. A luminous hard X-ray source coincident with the nucleus is revealed, along with weaker soft X-ray emission which may be extended or offset from the hard emission. The EPIC spectrum is extremely flat and shows Fe Kα emission with very high equivalent width: both are typical characteristics of a buried, Compton-thick active galactic nucleus (AGN) which is seen only in scattered light. Perhaps the most remarkable characteristic of the spectrum is that the Fe Kα line energy is that of He-like iron, making IRAS 00182−7112 the first hidden AGN known to be dominated by ionized, Compton-thick reflection. Taking an appropriate bolometric correction, we find that this AGN could easily dominate the far-infrared (FIR) energetics. The nuclear reflection spectrum is seen through a relatively cold absorber with column density consistent with recent Spitzer observations. The soft X-ray emission, which may be thermal in nature and associated with star-forming activity, is seen unabsorbed. The soft X-rays and weak polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon features both give estimates of the star formation rate ∼300 M⊙ yr−1, insufficient to power the FIR emission and supportive of the idea that this HLIRG is AGN-dominated.
Brown dwarf formation by gravitational fragmentation of massive, extended protostellar discs
Authors: Stamatellos Dimitris , Hubber David A. , Whitworth Anthony P.
Published: October 2007

We suggest that low-mass hydrogen-burning stars like the Sun should sometimes form with massive extended discs, and we show, by means of radiation hydrodynamic simulations, that the outer parts of such discs (R≳ 100 au) are likely to fragment on a dynamical time-scale (103 to 104 yr), forming low-mass companions: principally brown dwarfs (BDs), but also very low-mass hydrogen-burning stars and planetary-mass objects. A few of the BDs formed in this way remain attached to the primary star, orbiting at large radii. The majority are released into the field by interactions amongst themselves; in so doing they acquire only a low velocity dispersion (≲2 km s−1), and therefore they usually retain small discs, capable of registering an infrared excess and sustaining accretion. Some BDs form close BD/BD binaries, and these binaries can survive ejection into the field. This BD formation mechanism appears to avoid some of the problems associated with the ‘embryo ejection’ scenario, and to answer some of the questions not yet answered by the ‘turbulent fragmentation’ scenario.
New ammonia masers towards NGC 6334I
Authors: Walsh A. J. , Longmore S. N. , Thorwirth S. , Urquhart J. S. , Purcell C. R.
Published: October 2007

We report the detection of new ammonia masers in the non-metastable (8,6) and (11,9) transitions towards the massive star-forming region NGC 6334I. Observations were made with the Australia Telescope Compact Array interferometer and the emitting region appears unresolved in the 2.7 × 0.8 arcsec2 beam, with deconvolved sizes less than an arcsecond. We estimate peak brightness temperatures of 7.8 × 105 and 1.2 × 105 K for the (8,6) and (11,9) transitions, respectively. The masers appear coincident both spatially and in velocity with a previously detected ammonia (6,6) maser. We also suggest that emission in the (10,9), (9,9) and (7,6) transitions may also be masers, based on the small linewidths and overlapping velocity ranges with the above masers, as observed with the single-dish Mopra radio telescope.
Effects of fluctuation on αΩ dynamo models
Authors: Proctor Michael R. E.
Published: October 2007

We analyse the role of a fluctuating α-effect in αΩ dynamo models, and show that there is a mechanism for magnetic field generation, valid at large-scale separation, deriving from the interaction of mean shear and a fluctuating α-effect. We show that this effect can act as a dynamo even in the absence of a mean α-effect, and that the time-scale for dynamo waves is strongly affected by the presence of fluctuations.
Neutron star cooling after deep crustal heating in the X-ray transient KS 1731–260
Authors: Shternin P. S. , Yakovlev D. G. , Haensel P. , Potekhin A. Y.
Published: October 2007

We simulate the cooling of the neutron star in the X-ray transient KS 1731−260 after the source returned to quiescence in 2001 from a long (≳12.5 yr) outburst state. We show that the cooling can be explained assuming that the crust underwent deep heating during the outburst stage. In our best theoretical scenario the neutron star has no enhanced neutrino emission in the core, and its crust is thin, superfluid, and has the normal thermal conductivity. The thermal afterburst crust–core relaxation in the star may not be over.
Evaluating Prospective e‐Providers: An Empirical Study
Authors: Das Ajay , Buddress Lee
Published: October 2007

It has been problematic to evaluate prospective providers prior to actual adoption and use of their technologies and services. This research uses the resource‐based view of the firm to identify, prioritize and relate e‐provider evaluation criteria and evaluation process factors to user satisfaction levels, using cluster analysis and ANOVA on data gathered from 103 companies. The results suggest that firms prioritize intangible evaluation criteria over tangible criteria. Project performance is associated with e‐provider performance on intangible evaluation criteria, as well as cross‐functional participation in the evaluation process.
Quantitative microbial risk assessment with respect to Campylobacter spp. in toilets flushed with harvested rainwater
Authors: Fewtrell Lorna , Kay David
Published: October 2007

In light of increasing pressures on water supplies in some areas, water demand management and water conservation techniques are likely to become increasingly prevalent. In‐house systems using alternatives to mains supplies for nonpotable uses present one such option for reducing potable water demand. This paper, through a formal desk‐based health impact assessment (HIA) and quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA), examines one of the possible health implications (Campylobacter infection from toilet flushing) resulting from the use of rainwater harvesting in the home in the United Kingdom. This is investigated using data from the literature and a hypothetical case study population of over 4000 people (based on data for the ‘average’ population in England), with the results being expressed as disability‐adjusted life years (DALYs) (on an annual basis) and placed in context of the ‘tolerable’ risk from drinking‐water supplies.
Derrida, Politics and Democracy to Come
Authors: Patton Paul
Published: October 2007

Derrida's early reluctance to spell out political implications of deconstruction gave way during the course of the 1980s to a series of analyses of political concepts and issues. This article identifies the principal intellectual strategies of Derrida's political engagements and provides a detailed account of his concept of ‘democracy to come’. Finally, it suggests several points of contact between Derrida and recent liberal political philosophy, as well as some areas in which deconstructive analyses require further refinement if fruitful exchange is to occur.
From Local to Global to Transnational Civil Society: Re‐Framing Development Perspectives on the Non‐State Sector
Authors: McIlwaine Cathy
Published: October 2007

This article outlines the meanings of civil society covering theoretical and development policy debates. It traces the evolution of conceptualisations of civil society noting how diversity in type, function and scale are critical in understanding these changes. The role of non‐governmental organisations within development policy is explored highlighting how the euphoria over civil society has been tempered over time, reflecting how Gramscian interpretations have begun to replace neo‐Tocquevillian viewpoints. The article also examines how civil society operates over different scales from local to global to transnational, assessing and critiquing the rise of global civil society or what is more appropriately called ‘transnational civil society’. The article finishes by highlighting the importance of diasporic civil society in relation to migrant groups especially from a development viewpoint as well as the need for more research on this issue. Conceptually, the article argues for a more sophisticated Gramscian interpretation of civil society that also recognises the importance of spatiality in the complex interpenetration between an increasingly extra‐territorialised state and an increasingly transnational civil society. Thus, it presents a re‐framing of development perspectives on the non‐state sector from local to global to transnational scales.
Urban Heat Islands: Observations, Impacts, and Adaptation
Authors: Yow Donald M.
Published: October 2007

Urban heat islands are a clear, well‐documented example of an anthropogenic modification to climate that has an atmospheric, biological, and economic impact. This review shows how field‐based and modeling studies continue to help unravel the factors that are responsible for heat island development and are providing a basis for the development and application of sustainable adaptation strategies. As urban areas continue to expand, there is a heightened awareness that scientific knowledge of the urban heat island must be more effectively communicated to architects, engineers, and planners and translated into intelligent urban design. Green roof technology is a case in point. This and other technologies are being slowly adopted, and research published since 2003 suggests that the pace with which many practical applications are put into practice should accelerate.
Stroke Induces Histamine Accumulation and Mast Cell Degranulation in the Neonatal Rat Brain
Authors: Biran V. , Cochois V. , Karroubi A. , Arrang J.M. , Charriaut‐Marlangue C. , Héron A.
Published: October 2007

Inflammatory processes are a major cause of hypoxic‐ischemic brain damage. The present study focuses on both the cerebral histamine system and mast cells in a model of transient focal ischemia induced by permanent left middle cerebral artery, and homolateral transient common carotid artery occlusion (50 minutes) in the P7 newborn rat. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that ischemia induces histamine (HA) accumulation in the core of the infarct 6–12 h post‐ischemia, and in the penumbra at 24–48 h, althoughin situhybridization failed to detect any histidine decarboxylase gene transcripts in these regions. Immunohistochemical co‐localization of HA with the MAP2 marker revealed that HA accumulates in neuronal cells before they degenerate, and is accompanied by a very significant increase in the number of mast cells at 12 h and 48 h of reperfusion. In mast cells, histamine immunoreactivity is detected at 2, 6 and 12 h after ischemia, whereas it disappears at 24 h, when a concomitant degranulation of mast cells is observed. Taken together, these data suggest that the recruitment of cerebral mast cells releasing histamine may contribute to ischemia‐induced neuronal death in the immature brain.
Analysis of Neuronal, Glial, Endothelial, Axonal and Apoptotic Markers Following Moderate Therapeutic Hypothermia and Anesthesia in the Developing Piglet Brain
Authors: Gressens Pierre , Dingley John , Plaisant Frank , Porter Helen , Schwendimann Leslie , Verney Catherine , Tooley James , Thoresen Marianne
Published: October 2007

Hypothermia (HT) by whole body (WBC) or selective head cooling (SHC) reduces hypoxic‐ischemic (HI) brain injury; however, whether prolonged hypothermia and/or anesthesia disrupts immature brain development, eg, increases apoptosis, is unknown. Anesthesia increases apoptosis in immature animals. We investigated whether neuroprotective hypothermia and anesthesia disrupts normal brain development. Thirty‐eight pigs <24 h old were randomized between five groups and were killed after 72 h: eighteen received a global hypoxic‐ischemic insult under anesthesia, eight subsequently cooled by SHC with WBC to Trectal 34.5°C for 24 h, followed by 48 h normothermia (NT) at Trectal 39.0°C, while 10 remained normothermic. Sixteen underwent anesthetized sham hypoxic‐ischemic, six then following normothermia and 10 following hypothermia protocols. There were four normothermic controls. The hypothermia groups demonstrated significant brain hypothermia. In the hypoxic‐ischemic groups this conferred ~60% neuroprotection reducing histological injury scores in all brain areas. Immunohistochemical/histochemical analyses of neuronal, glial, endothelial, axonal, transcriptional apoptotic markers in areas devoid of histological lesions revealed no hypothermia/normothermia group and differences whether exposed to hypoxic‐ischemic or not. Neither 36‐h anesthesia nor 24‐h hypothermia produced adverse effects at 4‐day survival on a panel of brain maturation/neural death markers in newborn pigs. Longer survival studies are necessary to verify the safety of hypothermia in the developing brain.
Glutamate Receptor Expression in Multiple Sclerosis Lesions
Authors: Newcombe Jia , Uddin Alim , Dove Rosamund , Patel Bela , Turski Lechoslaw , Nishizawa Yukio , Smith Terence
Published: October 2007

Blockade of receptors for the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate ameliorates neurological clinical signs in models of the CNS inflammatory demyelinating disease multiple sclerosis (MS). To investigate whether glutamate excitoxicity may play a role in MS pathogenesis, the cellular localization of glutamate and its receptors, transporters and enzymes was examined. Expression of glutamate receptor (GluR) 1, a Ca++‐permeable ionotropic AMPA receptor subunit, was up‐regulated on oligodendrocytes in active MS lesion borders, but Ca++‐impermeable AMPA GluR2 subunit levels were not increased. Reactive astrocytes in active plaques expressed AMPA GluR3 and metabotropic mGluR1, 2/3 and 5 receptors and the GLT‐1 transporter, and a subpopulation was immunostained with glutamate antibodies. Activated microglia and macrophages were immunopositive for GluR2, GluR4 and NMDA receptor subunit 1. Kainate receptor GluR5–7 immunostaining showed endothelial cells and dystrophic axons. Astrocyte and macrophage populations expressed glutamate metabolizing enzymes and unexpectedly the EAAC1 transporter, which may play a role in glutamate uptake in lesions. Thus, reactive astrocytes in MS white matter lesions are equipped for a protective role in sequestering and metabolizing extracellular glutamate. However, they may be unable to maintain glutamate at levels low enough to protect oligodendrocytes rendered vulnerable to excitotoxic damage because of GluR1 up‐regulation.
Natural History of Meningioma Development in Mice Reveals: A Synergy ofNf2andp16Ink4aMutations
Authors: Kalamarides Michel , Stemmer‐Rachamimov Anat O. , Takahashi Masaya , Han Zhi‐Yan , Chareyre Fabrice , Niwa‐Kawakita Michiko , Black Peter M. , Carroll Rona S. , Giovannini Marco
Published: October 2007

Meningiomas account for approximately 30% of all primary central nervous system tumors and are found in half of neurofibromatosis type 2 patients often causing significant morbidity. Although most meningiomas are benign, 10% are classified as atypical or anaplastic, displaying aggressive clinical behavior. Biallelic inactivation of the neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) tumor suppressor is associated with meningioma formation in all NF2 patients and 60% of sporadic meningiomas. Deletion of thep16INK4a/p14ARFlocus is found in both benign and malignant meningiomas, while mutation of thep53tumor suppressor gene is uncommon. Previously, we inactivatedNf2in homozygous conditional knockout mice by adenoviral Cre delivery and showed thatNf2loss in arachnoid cells is rate‐limiting for meningioma formation. Here, we report that additional nullizygosity forp16Ink4aincreases the frequency of meningioma and meningothelial proliferation in these mice without modifying the tumor grade. In addition, by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to screen a large cohort of mutant mice, we were able to detect meningothelial proliferation and meningioma development opening the way to future studies in which therapeutic interventions can be tested as preclinical assessment of their potential clinical application.
Ascorbic Acid and 4‐Hexylresorcinol Effects on Pear PPO and PPO Catalyzed Browning Reaction
Authors: Arias E. , González J. , Oria R. , Lopez‐Buesa P.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  The effects of ascorbic acid (AA) and 4‐hexylresorcinol (4‐HR) on pear polyphenoloxidase (PPO) activity and stability have been investigated in vitro. AA does not interact directly with PPO but prevents browning by reducing oxidized substrates. The 4‐HR exerts a dual role on PPO. If no substrates are present, it interacts preferably with the deoxy form of PPO inactivating it. If substrates and 4‐HR are both present they compete for the catalytic site. The 4‐HR behaves then as a canonical enzyme inhibitor, binding to the met form of PPO. Simultaneous addition of 4‐HR and AA has synergistic inhibition or inactivatory effects depending on the presence or the absence of PPO substrates.
Effects of Mild Heat Treatment on Microbial Growth and Product Quality of Packaged Fresh‐Cut Table Grapes
Authors: Kou L. , Luo Y. , Wu D. , Liu X.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT: The changes in packaged fresh‐cut grape quality and microbial growth as affected by mild heat treatments and the retention of grape cap stems during 5 °C storage were evaluated. Each individual grape was either manually pulled off (stemless) from the stems, or cut (cut stem) to allow for a 1‐ to 2‐mm cap stem remaining on the berry. The samples were sanitized in 100 mg/L chlorine solution for 1 min, followed by a mild heat treatment in a water bath (45 °C, 8 min) or an oven (55 °C, 5 min). After cooling, the berries were packaged in rigid trays sealed with a gas permeable film and stored at 5 °C. Product quality and decay rate were evaluated periodically during storage. The results indicate that in the package headspace for hot water treatment of stemless grapes, partial pressures of O2declined significantly (P< 0.05) less and C2H4increased significantly (P< 0.001) less than for the control and hot air treatment. Stem removal and heat treatment had significant (P< 0.05) effects on the decay rate of grapes during storage. Hot water treatment maintained a significantly lower decay rate than the control and hot air treatment throughout the entire storage. Color and texture were not significantly (P> 0.05) affected by either heat treatment or stem removal. Grapes that retained the cap stems and received hot water treatment had the lowest decay rate and lowest microbial growth with the absence of any negative impact on grape color, texture, and flavor.
Respiratory Rate and Quality Changes in Fresh‐Cut Pears as Affected by Superatmospheric Oxygen
Authors: Oms‐Oliu G. , Soliva‐Fortuny R. , Martín‐Belloso O.
Published: October 2007

ABSTRACT:  Changes in the respiration rate of fresh‐cut “Flor de Invierno” pears stored under superatmospheric oxygen concentrations were studied and compared to those observed under traditional modified atmosphere packaging conditions. Changes in package headspace O2 and CO2 concentrations throughout storage were curve‐fitted to nonlinear equations, calculating respiration rates by combining the derivatives of the equations and the gas permeations throughout storage. Moreover, relationships between respiratory activity and quality parameters of fresh‐cut Flor de Invierno pears dipped into an antioxidant solution (0.75% N‐acetylcysteine and 0.75% glutathione) were assessed. CO2 production of fresh‐cut Flor de Invierno pears stored under 70 kPa O2 atmospheres was successfully estimated with the proposed mathematical procedure. This method also proved to describe well CO2 production rates of fresh‐cut pears stored under initial 2.5 kPa O2+ 7 kPa CO2 or 21 kPa O2. In addition, a modification of Michaelis–Menten enzyme kinetics was adequate to describe the changes in estimated CO2 production due to fermentative processes occurring under low oxygen concentrations. Superatmospheric O2 concentrations seem to promote oxidative processes, which result into a dramatical modification of some quality attributes of fresh‐cut pears.