bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclooxygenase‐2–Dependent Prostaglandin E2 Upregulates Interleukin (IL)‐1α–Induced IL‐6 Generation in Mouse Cementoblasts
Authors: Noguchi Kazuyuki , Miyauchi Mutsumi , Oka Hiroko , Komaki Motohiro , Somerman Martha J. , Takata Takashi
Published: January 2007

Background: Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), which exerts its biologic actions via EP receptors (EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4), is a bioactive metabolite of arachidonic acid that is produced by cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1 and/or COX‐2. In the present study, we investigated whether a mouse cementoblast cell line, OCCM‐30 cells, that was stimulated with interleukin (IL)‐1α produced COX‐2–dependent PGE2 and whether the produced PGE2 affected IL‐1α–induced IL‐6 production.

Methods: OCCM‐30 cells were stimulated with vehicle or IL‐1α in the presence or absence of indomethacin (a COX‐1/COX‐2 inhibitor), NS‐398 (a specific COX‐2 inhibitor), PGE2, and EP receptor agonists. PGE2 and IL‐6 levels were assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: IL‐1α induced PGE2 production in a time‐dependent fashion. Indomethacin and NS‐398 completely inhibited IL‐1α–induced PGE2 production. 17‐phenyl‐ω‐trinor PGE2 (an EP1 agonist) and an EP4 agonist mimicked PGE2 enhancement of IL‐1α–induced IL‐6 production in OCCM‐30 cells.

Conclusions: From these data, we suggest that IL‐1α induced PGE2 production in a COX‐2–dependent manner in OCCM‐30 cells and that the COX‐2–derived PGE2 upregulates IL‐1α–elicited IL‐6 production via EP1 and/or EP4 receptors. PGE2 and IL‐6 produced by cementoblasts may be involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease.
Causal Agents of Mycobacterial Diseases in Freshwater Ornamental Fish and their Importance for Human Health in the Czech Republic
Authors: Řehulka J. , Kaustová J. , Řehulková E.
Published: January 2007

In the period from 1995 to 2004, the following mycobacterial species were isolated during the examination of the state of health of aquarium fish from the Moravian-Silesian region of the Czech Republic: Mycobacterium fortuitum (Paracheirodon axelrodi, Poecilia sphenops, Hemigrammus rhodostomus, Hyphessobrycon flammeus), M. chelonae (P. axelrodi, Betta splendens, Xiphophorus helleri, Puntius tetrazona), M. kansasii (P. axelrodi, B. splendens), M. simiae (Hyphessobrycon ecuadoriensis), and M. gordonae (P. axelrodi, Colisa lalia, B. splendens, Symphysodon discus). The first isolation from aquarium fish was recorded in the case of M. kansasii and the second isolation in the case of M. simiae; both should also be taken into account as aetiological agents of mycobacterial infections in humans. The measures to reduce mycobacterial infections in both fish and humans should include monitoring water mains as possible sources of M. kansasii infections, compliance with the sanitation principles in handling fish suspected of being infected and the content of tanks (molluscs, water, plants), and the introduction of strict veterinary inspection of imported fish, fish from aquarist shops and from large-scale distributors.
Isotopic evidence for age‐related immigration to imperial Rome
Authors: Prowse Tracy L. , Schwarcz Henry P. , Garnsey Peter , Knyf Martin , Macchiarelli Roberto , Bondioli Luca
Published: January 2007

Oxygen stable isotope ratios (δ18O) have been determined in carbonate in paired first and third molar teeth from individuals (N = 61) who lived in the town of Portus Romae (“Portus”) and who were buried in the necropolis of Isola Sacra (First to Third centuries AD) near Rome, Italy. We compare these analyses with data for deciduous teeth of modern Roman children. Approximately one‐third of the archaeological sample has first molar (M1) values outside the modern range, implying a large rate of population turnover at that time, consistent with historical data. Delta 18Oap values suggest that a group within the sample migrated to the area before the third molar (M3) crown had completely formed (i.e., between 10 and 17.5 years of age). This is the first quantitative assessment of population mobility in Classical antiquity. This study demonstrates that migration was not limited to predominantly single adult males, as suggested by historical sources, but rather a complex phenomenon involving families. We hypothesize that migrants most likely came from higher elevations to the East and North of Rome. One individual with a higher δ18O value may have come (as a child) from an area isotopically similar to North Africa. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Complex permittivity of sodium chloride solutions at microwave frequencies
Authors: Peyman A. , Gabriel C. , Grant E.H.
Published: January 2007

The complex permittivity of aqueous solutions at 20 °C has been measured at concentrations between 0.001 and 5 mol/L and over a frequency range 0.13–20 GHz. The results were combined with literature values to derive empirical equations to predict the dielectric behavior of sodium chloride solutions between 0 and 5 mol/L and 5°C–35 °C. Bioelectromagnetics 28:264–274, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Complementary effects of thienopyridine pretreatment and platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa integrin blockade with eptifibatide in coronary stent intervention; Results from the ESPRIT trial
Authors: Dery Jean‐Pierre , Campbell Mark E. , Mathias Jasmine , Pieper Karen S. , Harrington Robert A. , Madan Mina , Gibson C. Michael , Tolleson Thaddeus R. , O'Shea J. Conor , Tcheng James E. ,   for the ESPRIT Investigators
Published: January 2007

Objectives: This analysis sought to investigate the complementary effect of thienopyridine pretreatment and platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa integrin blockade in coronary stent intervention. Background: Definitive evidence supporting combined antiplatelet therapy consisting of thienopyridine pretreatment and GP IIb/IIIa receptor blockade in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent implantation is limited. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed clinical outcomes by thienopyridine use in the 2,040 patients randomized to eptifibatide or placebo who underwent PCI in the ESPRIT trial. Results: A total of 901 patients received a loading dose of thienopyridine before PCI (group 1), 123 received thienopyridine pretreatment without a loading dose (group 2), and 1,016 were not treated with thienopyridine before PCI (group 3). The composite incidence of death or myocardial infarction at 30 days was significantly lower in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3 combined (OR, 0.71 [95%CI, 0.52–0.99]; P = 0.0417). A similar trend was seen for the composite of death, myocardial infarction, or urgent target vessel revascularization (unadjusted OR, 0.77 [0.57–1.05]; P = 0.1025). After adjusting for baseline characteristics, these differences were no longer significant. No interactions were identified with eptifibatide assignment for any of the group comparisons. Conclusions: Pretreatment with a loading dose of thienopyridine lowers the rate of ischemic complications regardless of treatment with a GP IIb/IIIa inhibitor. Conversely, the efficacy of eptifibatide is maintained whether or not a loading dose of a thienopyridine is administered. Optimal outcomes are achieved in patients receiving thienopyridine pretreatment along with platelet GP IIb/IIIa inhibitor therapy. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
1,3‐Bicyclo[1.1.1]pentanediyl: The Shortest Rigid Linear Connector of Phenylated Photochromic Units and a 1,5‐Dimethoxy‐9,10‐di(phenylethynyl)anthracene Fluorophore
Authors: de Meijere Armin , Zhao Ligang , Belov Vladimir N. , Bossi Mariano , Noltemeyer Matthias , Hell Stefan W.
Published: January 2007

An excess of bis‐1,3‐(4‐iodophenyl)bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane, prepared in 63 % yield by iodination of 1,3‐diphenylbicyclo[1.1.1]pentane, was selectively mono‐coupled with 9‐ethynyl‐1,5‐dimethoxy‐10‐phenylethynylanthracene (26), and subsequently with the zinc derivatives of 1‐(2‐methyl/methoxy‐4‐methyl‐5‐phenylthiophen‐3‐yl)‐2‐(2‐methyl/methoxy‐4‐methylthiophen‐3‐yl)perfluorocyclopentenes (38‐H–41‐H). Regioselective synthesis of the 2‐unsubstituted thiophenes 38‐H–41‐H required intermediate preparation of 2‐trimethylsilyl‐3,5‐dimethyl‐4‐bromothiophene (37) or 2‐trimethylsilyl‐5‐methoxy‐3‐methyl‐4‐bromothiophene (40). Protection of the α‐position of the thiophene ring with a 2‐trimethylsilyl group blocks the rearrangement of the 4‐lithio derivatives into the corresponding 2‐lithiated thiophenes. With the bicyclo[1.1.1]pentane fragment linking the photochromic units 1–3 and 1,5‐dimethoxy‐9,10‐di(phenylethynyl)anthracene as a fluorescent part, quantitative resonance energy transfer between the excited state of the fluorophore (donor) and the closed form of the photochromic units 1–3 (acceptors) was observed. The closed forms of the methoxy‐substituted photochromic units 2 and 3 are less resistant to UV light (313 nm) than the closed form of 1.
CO2 Fixation by Alkylzinc Amides: A Quantum Chemical Study Motivated by Recent Experimental Results
Authors: Himmel Hans‐Jörg
Published: January 2007

Herein the insertion of CO2 into the Zn–N bond of alkylzinc amides of the general formula RZnNR′2 (R = H, CH3, CF3, R′ = CH3, iPr, H, F, C6H5) is discussed on the basis of quantum chemical calculations. Several possible reaction pathways were considered, starting from monomeric as well as dimeric alkylzinc amides. Special consideration is given to the influence of the electronic properties of the amido group on the reaction energy. The mechanisms were studied in detail starting with the model compounds HZnNH2 and H3CZnN(CH3)2 as well as the dimer [HZnNH2]2. The reaction of monomeric compounds with CO2 first leads to an intermediate featuring a Zn–N–C–O four‐membered ring. This first step requires an activation energy ΔG of ca. 60 kJ·mol–1 and turns out to be the rate‐determining step. In the second step, which requires a much smaller activation energy, the carbamate product is formed. Reactions of dimeric alkylzinc amides are subject to a significantly higher activation barrier (with a ΔG value of 103 kJ·mol–1), with a four‐membered ring as the transition‐state structure. The activation energy is slightly higher than the energy required for decomposition of the dimer into two monomers, and therefore it is plausible that the alkylzinc amides react as monomers with CO2. The calculations for the dimer reaction again gave evidence for the formation of an intermediate exhibiting in this case a six‐membered ring. The barrier to formation of the carbamate from this intermediate is very small. The results of this work contribute to the knowledge of CO2 fixation by alkylzinc amides and might shed some light on enzymatic reactivity. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2007)
Forecasting inflation using economic indicators: the case of France
Authors: Bruneau C. , De Bandt O. , Flageollet A. , Michaux E.
Published: January 2007

In order to provide short‐run forecasts of headline and core HICP inflation for France, we assess the forecasting performance of a large set of economic indicators, individually and jointly, as well as using dynamic factor models. We run out‐of‐sample forecasts implementing the Stock and Watson (1999) methodology. We find that, according to usual statistical criteria, the combination of several indicators—in particular those derived from surveys—provides better results than factor models, even after pre‐selection of the variables included in the panel. However, factors included in VAR models exhibit more stable forecasting performance over time. Results for the HICP excluding unprocessed food and energy are very encouraging. Moreover, we show that the aggregation of forecasts on subcomponents exhibits the best performance for projecting total inflation and that it is robust to data snooping.  Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A kinematic‐wave‐based distributed watershed model using FEM, GIS and remotely sensed data
Authors: Venkata Reddy K. , Eldho T. I. , Rao E. P. , Hengade N.
Published: January 2007

For the appropriate management of water resources in a watershed, it is essential to calculate the time distribution of runoff for the given rainfall event. In this paper, a kinematic‐wave‐based distributed watershed model using finite element method (FEM), geographical information systems (GIS) and remote‐sensing‐based approach is presented for the runoff simulation of small watersheds. The kinematic wave equations are solved using FEM for overland and channel flow to generate runoff at the outlet of the watershed concerned. The interception loss is calculated by an empirical model based on leaf area index (LAI). The Green‐Ampt Mein Larson (GAML) model is used for the estimation of infiltration. Remotely sensed data has been used to extract land use (LU)/land cover (LC). GIS have been used to prepare finite element grid and input files such as Manning's roughness and slope. The developed overland flow model has been checked with an analytical solution for a hypothetical watershed. The model has been applied to a gauged watershed and an ungauged watershed. From the results, it is seen that the model is able to simulate the hydrographs reasonably well. A sensitivity analysis of the model is carried out with the calibrated infiltration parameters, overland flow Manning's roughness, channel flow Manning's roughness, time step and grid size. The present model is useful in predicting the hydrograph in small, ungauged watersheds. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human retinoblastoma is not caused by known pRb‐inactivating human DNA tumor viruses
Authors: Gillison Maura L. , Chen Renwei , Goshu Eleni , Rushlow Diane , Chen Ning , Banister Carolyn , Creek Kim E. , Gallie Brenda L.
Published: January 2007

Retinoblastomas occur as the consequence of inactivation of the tumor suppressor retinoblastoma protein (pRb), classically upon biallelic inactivation of the RB1 gene locus. Recently, human papillomavirus (HPV) genomic DNA has been detected in retinoblastomas. To investigate the possibility that oncoproteins encoded by pRb‐inactivating DNA tumor viruses play a role in the pathogenesis of human retinoblastoma, 40 fresh‐frozen tumors were analyzed for the presence of HPV, adenovirus (HAdV) and polyomavirus (BKV, JCV and SV40) genomic DNA sequences by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Tumors were screened for genetic and epigenetic alterations in all 27 exons of the RB1 gene locus and promoter by exonic copy number detection, sequencing and methylation‐specific PCR of the promoter region. Retinoblastoma tumors from children with bilateral familial (n = 1), bilateral nonfamilial (n = 1) and unilateral nonfamilial (n = 38) disease were analyzed. Inactivating modifications to the RB1 gene locus were identified on both the alleles in 27 tumors, one allele in 8, and neither allele in 5 cases. A median of over 107,000 tumor cells were analyzed for viral genomic DNA in each PCR reaction. All tumor samples were negative for 37 HPV types, 51 HAdV types, BKV and JCV genomic sequences. Very low copy number (0.2–260 copies per 100,000 tumor cells) SV40 genomic DNA detected in 8 of 39 samples was demonstrated to be consistent with an artifact of plasmid‐derived SV40. In contrast to recent reports, we obtained substantial quantitative evidence indicating that neither HPV nor any other pRb‐inactivating human DNA tumor viruses play a role in the development of retinoblastoma, regardless of RB1 genotype. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Opposite effects of high glucose on MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 in human endothelial cells
Authors: Ho Feng M. , Liu Shing H. , Lin Wan W. , Liau Chiau S.
Published: January 2007

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and causes multiple cardiovascular complications. Although high glucose can induce matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), its inhibitors and cell apoptosis, little is known about the roles of MMPs in regulating cell apoptosis in response to high glucose. To address this issue, we elucidated the relationship between MMPs, its inhibitors and cell apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). HUVECs were treated with medium containing 5.5 mM or 33 mM of glucose in the presence or the absence of ascorbic acid and MMP inhibitors (GM6001 and endogenous tissue inhibitors of MMPs, TIMP‐1, and TIMP‐2). For detection of cell apoptosis, the cell death detection ELISA assay was used. The results revealed that high glucose‐induced apoptosis could be suppressed by ascorbic acid, GM6001 and TIMP‐2, but not by TIMP‐1. The activities of MMP‐2, MMP‐9 and its inhibitors, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2 after high glucose treatment, were also detected by ELISA method. We found that the activated form of MMP‐2, but not MMP‐9, was increased, while the level of TIMP‐2, but not TIMP‐1, was decreased. In Western blot and RT‐PCR analysis, the expression of TIMP‐2, but not TIMP‐1, after high glucose treatment was downregulated, whereas the levels of MMP‐2 and ‐9 proteins and mRNA were not changed. The present study indicated that oxidative stress induced by high glucose might be involved in the opposite effects on MMP‐2 activation and TIMP‐2 downregulation. This reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐dependent MMP‐2 activation in turn mediates high glucose‐induced cell apoptosis in HUVECs. J. Cell. Biochem. 101: 442–450, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Poly(ϵ‐caprolactone)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) triblock copolymers: Synthesis and self‐assembly in aqueous solutions
Authors: Zhang Yaqiong , Guo Shengrong , Lu Chengfei , Liu Li , Li Zonghai , Gu Jianren
Published: January 2007

Nontoxic and biodegradable poly(ϵ‐caprolactone)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) triblock copolymers were synthesized by the solution polymerization of ϵ‐caprolactone in the presence of poly(ethylene glycol). The chemical structure of the resulting triblock copolymer was characterized with 1H NMR and gel permeation chromatography. In aqueous solutions of the triblock copolymers, the micellization and sol–gel‐transition behaviors were investigated. The experimental results showed that the unimer‐to‐micelle transition did occur. In a sol–gel‐transition phase diagram obtained by the vial‐tilting method, the boundary curve shifted to the left, and the gel regions expanded with the increasing molecular weight of the poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) block. In addition, the hydrodynamic diameters of the micelles were almost independent of the investigated temperature (25–55 °C). The atomic force microscopy results showed that spherical micelles formed at the copolymer concentration of 2.5 × 10−4 g/mL, whereas necklace‐like and worm‐like shapes were adopted when the concentration was 0.25 g/mL, which was high enough to form a gel. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 605–613, 2007
Effects of diets enriched in eicosapentaenoic or docosahexaenoic acids on prostanoid metabolism in the rat
Authors: Croft Kevin D. , Beilin Lawrence J. , Legge Frank M. , Vandongen Robert
Published: January 2007

To clarify the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on prostaglandin biosynthesis, diets supplemented with oils rich in one fatty acid or the other were fed to rats over a 4‐wk period. Animals fed the Max EPA diet showed a significant decrease in plasma and tissue phospholipid arachidonic acid content. While plasma levels of DHA increased on a shark liver oil diet enriched in DHA, the liver and kidney phospholipid contents of DHA were not altered. In addiition, the DHA‐enriched diet did not decrease the arachidonic acid content of either liver or kidney phospholipids. Whole blood thromboxane and vascular prostacyclin synthesis were decreased by 65% and 36%, respectively, in animals fed the Max EPA diet. No such decrease was seen in the rats fed DHA‐enriched diets. We conclude from these results that in the rat DHA is not likely to have a significant effect on prostaglandin synthesis when given as a dietary supplement.
Perfluoro‐n‐decanoic acid: Induction of peroxisomal β‐oxidation by a fatty acid with dioxin‐like toxicity
Authors: Harrison Earl H. , Lane J. Scott , Luking Scott , Van Rafelghem Marc J. , Andersen Melvin E.
Published: January 2007

Perfluoro‐n‐decanoic acid (PFDA) produces toxic effects in rodents similar to those caused by 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin. A single, intraperitoneal dose (50 mg/kg) of PFDA to Sprague‐Dawley rats caused disruption of the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondrial swelling and increases in intracellular lipid droplets in hepatocytes similar to effects reported previously in dioxin toxicity. PFDA treatment led to large decreases in the activity of plasma membrane alkaline phosphodiesterase and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase without affecting lysosomal N‐acetyl‐β‐glucoaminidase, endoplasmic reticulum NADPH‐cytochrome c reductase or peroxisomal catalase activities. PFDA treatment led to moderate peroxisome proliferation and to very large (20–40‐fold) increases in the activity of fatty acyl‐CoA oxidase, the rate‐limiting enzyme in the peroxisomal system of fatty acid β‐oxidation.
Biosynthesis of molecular species of CDP‐diglyceride from endogenously‐labeled phosphatidate in rat liver microsomes
Authors: Holub B. J. , Piekarski J.
Published: January 2007

The biosynthesis of [14C] CDP‐diglyceride was studied using rat liver microsomes which were endogenously labeled with [14C] phosphatidic acid by preincubation of unlabeled microsomes withsn‐[14C]glycerol‐3‐phosphate and appropriate cofactors. The formation of CDP‐diglyceride from radioactive phosphatidate showed an absolute requirement for CTP and MgC12. The newly formed [14C] CDP‐diglyceride was characterized by thin layer chromatography (TLC), isotopic labeling from radioactive CTP, and its ability to serve as substrate for the microsomal enzyme, CDP‐diglyceride: inositol phosphatidyltransferase. The distributions of radioactive glycerol‐3‐phosphate among the various chemical classes of microsomal [14C] phosphatidate and [14C]CDP‐diglyceride were determined following argentation TLC of their 1,2‐diglyceride acetate derivatives. Most of the radioactivity among the phosphatidic acids was present in the monoenoic (36%) and dienoic (33%) molecular species, whereas 10, 8, 4, and 8% were associated with the saturates, trienes, tetraenes, and polyenes, respectively. Similar distributions of radioactivity were found among the corresponding classes of newly formed CDP‐diglyceride. Only a slight enrichment of radioactivity in the tetraenoic CDP‐diglyceride was found relative to the corresponding phosphatidates. Therefore, under the conditions of study, the microsomal CTP:phosphatidate cytidylyltransferase produces mainly monoenoic and dienoic species of CDP‐diglyceride and shows little specificity towards different molecular species of phosphatidic acids. The present results suggest also that the arachidonoyl phosphatidate derived from the microsomal acylation ofsn‐glycerol‐3‐phosphate is not likely the major source of arachidonic acid in liver phosphatidylinositol.
Kinetic study of the reaction between tocopheroxyl radical and unsaturated fatty acid esters in benzene
Authors: Mukai Kazuo , Okauchi Yuji
Published: January 2007

A kinetic study of the reaction between a tocopheroxyl radical and unsaturated fatty acid esters has been undertaken. The rates of allylic hydrogen abstraction from various unsaturated fatty acid esters (ethyl oleate2, ethyl linoleate3, ethyl linolenate4, and ethyl arachidonate5) by the tocopheroxyl radical (5,7‐diisopropyltocopheroxyl6) in benzene have been determined spectrophotometrically. The second‐order rate constants, k3, obtained are 1.04×10−5 M−1s−1 for2, 1.82×10−2 M−1s−1 for3, 3.84×10−2 M−1s−1 for4, and 4.83×10−2 M−1s−1 for5 at 25.0°C. Thus, the rate constants, kabstr/H, given on an available hydrogen basis are k3/4=2.60×10−6 M−1s−1 for2, k3/2=9.10×10−3 M−1s−1 for3, k3/4=9.60×10−3 M−1s−1 for4, and k3/6=8.05×10−3 M−1s−1 for5. The kabstr/H values obtained for the polyunsaturated fatty acid esters3,4, and5 containing H‐atoms activated by two π‐electron systems are similar to each other, and are about three orders of magnitude higher than that for the ethyl oleate2 containing H‐atoms activated by a single π‐system. From these results, it is suggested that the prooxidant effect of α‐tocopherol in edible oils and fats may be induced by the above hydrogen abstraction reaction.
Structure‐dependent functional properties of human defensin 5
Authors: de Leeuw Erik , Burks Scott R. , Li Xiangqun , Kao Joseph P.Y. , Lu Wuyuan
Published: January 2007

The mucosal epithelium secretes a variety of antimicrobial peptides that act as part of the innate immune system to protect against invading microbes. Here, we describe the functional properties of human defensin (HD) 5, the major antimicrobial peptide produced by Paneth cells in the ileum, in relation to its structure. The antimicrobial activity of HD‐5 against Escherichia coli proved to be independent of its structure, whereas the unstructured peptide showed greatly reduced antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. We find that HD‐5 binds to the cell membrane of intestinal epithelial cells and induced secretion of the chemokine interleukin (IL)‐8 in a concentration‐ and structure‐dependent fashion. Incubation of HD‐5 in the presence of tumor necrosis factor alpha further increased IL‐8 secretion synergistically, suggesting that HD‐5 may act as a regulator of the intestinal inflammatory response.
Proline reduces brain cytochrome c oxidase: prevention by antioxidants
Authors: Delwing Daniela , Delwing Débora , Chiarani Fábria , Kurek Andréa G. , Wyse Angela T.S.
Published: January 2007

In the present study, we initially investigated the in vivo (acute and chronic) and in vitro effects of proline on cytochrome c oxidase (complex IV) activity in rat cerebral cortex to test the hypothesis that proline might alter energy metabolism and that this alteration could be provoked by oxidative stress. The action of α‐tocopherol and ascorbic acid on the effects produced by proline was also evaluated. For acute administration, 29‐ and 60‐day‐old rats received one subcutaneous injection of proline (18.2 μmol/g body weight) or an equivalent volume of 0.9% saline solution (control) and were sacrificed 1 h later. For chronic treatment, proline was injected subcutaneously twice a day at 10 h intervals from the 6th to the 28th day of age. Rats were sacrificed 12 h (29th) or 31 days (60th) after the last injection. Results showed that acute administration of proline significantly diminished the activity of cytochrome c oxidase in the cerebral cortex of 29‐ and 60‐day‐old rats. On the other hand, chronic hyperprolinemia reduced this complex activity only on day 29, but not on the 60th day of life. In another set of experiments, 22‐day‐old rats or 53‐day‐old rats were pretreated for 1 week with daily intraperitoneal administration of α‐tocopherol (40 mg/kg) and ascorbic acid (100 mg/kg) or saline. Twelve hours after the last antioxidant injection, rats received a single injection of proline or saline and were killed 1 h later. In parallel to chronic treatment, rats received a daily intraperitoneal injection of α‐tocopherol and ascorbic acid from the 6th to the 28th day of life and were killed 12 h after the last injection. Results showed that the pretreatment with α‐tocopherol and ascorbic acid before acute proline administration or concomitant to chronic proline administration significantly prevented these effects. We also observed that proline (3.0 μM–1.0 mM) when added to the incubation medium (in vitro studies) did not alter cytochrome c oxidase activity. Data suggest that the inhibitory effect of proline on cytochrome c oxidase activity is possibly associated with oxidative stress and that this parameter may be involved in the brain dysfunction observed in hyperprolinemia.
Estimates of heterosis and association of genetic distance with heterosis in durum wheat under different moisture regimes
Authors: SOLOMON K. F. , LABUSCHAGNE M. T. , VILJOEN C. D.
Published: January 2007

The objectives of the present study were to evaluate heterosis for grain yield and yield components in durum wheat, and to assess the prediction potential of amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) based and agronomic trait based genetic distances (GD and MD, respectively) to F1 performance, mid parent heterosis (MPH), and specific combining ability effects (SCA) under well-watered and moisture stress conditions. Six parental genotypes with different responses to moisture stress and their 15 F1 crosses were evaluated for their responses to moisture stress conditions in a glasshouse. Some cross combinations showed significant MPH for grain yield and yield components. The expression of heterosis for grain yield was greater under moisture stress conditions than under well-watered conditions. Cluster analysis of the parental lines based on agronomic performance under stress conditions was similar to cluster analysis result based on AFLP marker profiles. F1 performance was strongly correlated to both SCA effects and MPH under both stress and well water conditions. The correlation between SCA and MPH was very high under both treatment conditions for all traits. Correlation between GD and MD was significant only under stress conditions. Positive correlation was found only for the association between GD v. F1 performance and GD v. SCA effects for harvest index (HI) under well-watered conditions. None of the correlations between MD and SCA effects were significant. The absence of association between GD and heterosis for yield and most agronomic traits implied that heterozygosity per se diversity is not a good predictor of heterosis or F1 performance under both well-watered and stressed conditions.
Equality, Social Justice and Social Welfare: A Road Map to the New Egalitarianisms
Authors: McLaughlin Eithne , Baker John
Published: January 2007

This paper summarises the way equality has featured in the disciplines of social policy and political theory leading up to the presentation of a new egalitarianian framework for thinking about and acting for equality. The paper presents a broadly chronological, integrated review of the place of equality within the subjects concerned. The longstanding problems of universalism and targeting are themes which recur throughout, and in New Labour's approach to equality and social justice.
Fluid flow and mixing in rough‐walled fracture intersections
Authors: Johnson Joel , Brown Stephen , Stockman Harlan
Published: January 2007

Fracture intersections play a basic role in contaminant transport through fracture networks because they allow different fluids to mix and disperse along the flow paths. We use experimental and numerical methods to understand and improve predictions of these phenomena. Laboratory experiments of mixing between two miscible fluids were performed within an artificial, rough‐walled fracture intersection made of textured glass. We also develop a numerical model of mixing based on local application of streamline routing within the irregular aperture distribution of the intersection. This model shows good agreement with the laboratory experiments, both in the amount of average mixing and in the spatial distribution of dye streamlines. The numerical model is used to generalize our results based on aperture statistics, and shows that mixing is significantly affected by how well apertures correlate across the intersection, especially as fractures are closed. We conclude that flow channelization through rough‐walled intersecting fractures significantly enhances physical mixing compared to intersecting parallel plates. Relative to transport through parallel plate aperture networks, surface roughness may reduce solute dilution and increase solute dispersion.
New criterion for sediment suspension and wind‐speed proxy in planetary atmospheres
Authors: Leeder M. R.
Published: January 2007

Sediment suspension is a common and important phenomenon in planetary atmospheres. A widely‐used suspension criterion, also a proxy boundary layer wind‐speed indicator, was discredited by Mars Exploration Rover Mission results concerning sediment particle sizes in active surface bed forms. Parameterisation of a new dynamic suspension criterion based upon turbulent stress yields predicted suspension threshold conditions consistent with those inferred for Earth and predicts no suspension of sand‐grade particles for recent Martian wind velocities (at 1m height) estimated in the range 28–73 m s−1. Results for Venus imply suspension of very fine sand particles at low surface wind speeds.
On the decadal rates of sea level change during the twentieth century
Authors: Holgate S. J.
Published: January 2007

Nine long and nearly continuous sea level records were chosen from around the world to explore rates of change in sea level for 1904–2003. These records were found to capture the variability found in a larger number of stations over the last half century studied previously. Extending the sea level record back over the entire century suggests that the high variability in the rates of sea level change observed over the past 20 years were not particularly unusual. The rate of sea level change was found to be larger in the early part of last century (2.03 ± 0.35 mm/yr 1904–1953), in comparison with the latter part (1.45 ± 0.34 mm/yr 1954–2003). The highest decadal rate of rise occurred in the decade centred on 1980 (5.31 mm/yr) with the lowest rate of rise occurring in the decade centred on 1964 (−1.49 mm/yr). Over the entire century the mean rate of change was 1.74 ± 0.16 mm/yr.
Effects of interplanetary electric field on the development of an equatorial spread F event
Authors: Chakrabarty D. , Sekar R. , Narayanan R. , Patra A. K. , Devasia C. V.
Published: January 2007

On a geomagnetically disturbed night (7 January 2005), an equatorial spread F (ESF) event was captured during premidnight hours by the Indian MST radar (operated in ionospheric mode) at Gadanki (13.5°N, 79.2°E, dip angle 12.5°N). The base height of the ionospheric F region over dip equator and a low‐latitude station showed similar variation during most of the ESF interval except mainly during 2145–2200 IST (Indian standard time, IST = universal time, UT + 5.5 hours). The zonal electric field variation over dip equator responded to a “prompt penetration” event at ∼2000 IST by gradually changing its polarity from westward to eastward after ∼2015 IST leading to the initiation of ESF at ∼2035 IST. The linear growth rate analysis supports the generation of irregularities only when the eastward electric field owing to the “prompt penetration” effect is taken into account. The zonal electric field became westward again after 2100 IST. However, it ephemerally turned eastward shortly after ∼2145 IST (1615 UT) that is believed to be associated with an “overshielding” condition. A plasma plume got resurrected after ∼30 min indicating the association of the development of this plume structure with the overshielding electric field. The OI 630.0 nm airglow intensity variations observed by a collocated airglow photometer, simultaneously operated in a bidirectional (zenith and east) mode, corroborated well with the ESF structure and dynamics during the disturbed period. These observations evince the active role of interplanetary electric field (IEF) in the development of ESF in the premidnight hours.
Numerical study of the role of wind forcing and freshwater buoyancy input on the circulation in a shallow embayment (Gulf of Trieste, Northern Adriatic Sea)
Authors: Querin Stefano , Crise Alessandro , Deponte Davide , Solidoro Cosimo
Published: January 2007

This paper investigates the role of wind forcing and river discharge on a small‐scale shallow embayment: the Gulf of Trieste. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of these dominant processes is carried out using a high resolution numerical model, initialized and forced with experimental data. The simulations are focused on short‐term transient events, which occurred during the stratification season (spring and summer). Two significant case studies are analyzed in detail: a strong wind event during summer and a river flood during spring. The model output is also checked against the results of a nondimensional scale analysis and against buoy and satellite observed data. These comparisons show a good correlation, validating the numerical simulations for the two case studies. The model shows that strong wind events blowing on stably stratified water cause coastal upwelling and almost entirely mix the water column in a few hours. Strong wind‐driven currents can flush the whole basin in almost 3 days. On the contrary, river floods affect mainly the upper layer, down to 5 m. The circulation is estuarine with a sharp vertical density gradient and horizontal fronts at the interface between plume freshwater and ambient salty water. Given the length scale of the basin, the effect of rotation is weak and a local coastal current in geostrophic balance is not formed during the simulated time period (20 days).
The Walker B motif of the second nucleotide-binding domain (NBD2) of CFTR plays a key role in ATPase activity by the NBD1–NBD2 heterodimer
Authors: Stratford Fiona L. L. , Ramjeesingh Mohabir , Cheung Joanne C. , Huan Ling-JUN , Bear Christine E.
Published: January 2007

CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator), a member of the ABC (ATP-binding cassette) superfamily of membrane proteins, possesses two NBDs (nucleotide-binding domains) in addition to two MSDs (membrane spanning domains) and the regulatory ‘R’ domain. The two NBDs of CFTR have been modelled as a heterodimer, stabilized by ATP binding at two sites in the NBD interface. It has been suggested that ATP hydrolysis occurs at only one of these sites as the putative catalytic base is only conserved in NBD2 of CFTR (Glu1371), but not in NBD1 where the corresponding residue is a serine, Ser573. Previously, we showed that fragments of CFTR corresponding to NBD1 and NBD2 can be purified and co-reconstituted to form a heterodimer capable of ATPase activity. In the present study, we show that the two NBD fragments form a complex in vivo, supporting the utility of this model system to evaluate the role of Glu1371 in ATP binding and hydrolysis. The present studies revealed that a mutant NBD2 (E1371Q) retains wild-type nucleotide binding affinity of NBD2. On the other hand, this substitution abolished the ATPase activity formed by the co-purified complex. Interestingly, introduction of a glutamate residue in place of the non-conserved Ser573 in NBD1 did not confer additional ATPase activity by the heterodimer, implicating a vital role for multiple residues in formation of the catalytic site. These findings provide the first biochemical evidence suggesting that the Walker B residue: Glu1371, plays a primary role in the ATPase activity conferred by the NBD1–NBD2 heterodimer.
Determination of the external loops and the cellular orientation of the N- and the C-termini of the human organic anion transporter hOAT1
Authors: Hong Mei , Tanaka Kunihiko , Pan Zui , Ma Jianjie , You Guofeng
Published: January 2007

The OAT (organic anion transporter) family mediates the absorption, distribution and excretion of a diverse array of environmental toxins and clinically important drugs. OAT dysfunction significantly contributes to renal, hepatic, neurological and fetal toxicity and disease. As a first step to establish the topological model of hOAT1 (human OAT1), we investigated the external loops and the cellular orientation of the N- and the C-termini of this transporter. Combined approaches of immunofluorescence studies and site-directed chemical labelling were used for such purpose. Immunofluorescence microscopy of Myc-tagged hOAT1 expressed in cultured cells identified that both the N- and the C-termini of the transporter were located in the cytoplasm. Replacement of Lys59 in the predicted extracellular loop I with arginine resulted in a mutant (K59R), which was largely inaccessible for labelling by membrane-impermeable NHS (N-hydroxysuccinimido)-SS (dithio)-biotin present in the extracellular medium. This result suggests that loop I faces outside of the cell membrane. A single lysine residue introduced into putative extracellular loops III, V and VI of mutant K59R, which is devoid of extracellular lysine, reacted readily with membrane-impermeable NHS-SS-biotin, suggesting that these putative extracellular loops are in the extracellular domains of the protein. These studies provided the first experimental evidence on the extracellular loops and the cellular orientation of the N- and the C-termini of hOAT1.
Understanding the discharge voltage behavior during reactive sputtering of oxides
Authors: Depla D. , Heirwegh S. , Mahieu S. , Haemers J. , De Gryse R.
Published: January 2007

The discharge voltage was measured for 15 different metallic target materials at constant current before and after plasma oxidation in order to understand its behavior during reactive magnetron sputtering. Plasma oxidation of the target surface was achieved by sputtering the target in pure oxygen. The discharge voltage measured in pure argon is characteristic for each kind of metallic target and is related to the ion induced secondary electron emission (ISEE) coefficient of the target material. Based on this relation a value for the ISEE coefficient of the oxidized target surface can be calculated. Two distinct groups can be discerned: for one group the ISEE coefficient of the oxidized target surface is larger than the ISEE coefficient of the metal, while the opposite behavior is noticed for the second group. This difference seems to find its origin in the reduction behavior of the oxides under ion bombardment, since the ISEE coefficient of the oxide can be related to the simulated degree of reduction of the oxide. It is shown that the ISEE coefficient of the reduced oxides decreases with increasing oxygen content in the target. This is confirmed experimentally by sputtering in pure argon reduced titanium oxide targets with a known composition.
Electrical field control magnetic phase transition in nanostructured MnxGe1−x
Authors: Chen Jingjing , Wang Kang L. , Galatsis Kosmas
Published: January 2007

The authors have investigated the magnetic, electrical, and structural properties of MnxGe1−x (on Ge substrate) nanostructured films produced by a nanopattern assisted Mn implantation followed by annealing. The semiconducting property and hole-mediated ferromagnetism mechanism enabled them to control the magnetic phase transition in the diluted magnetic semiconductor channel by a gate bias.
Structure of polyelectrolyte complexes by Brownian dynamics simulation: Effects of the bond length asymmetry of the polyelectrolytes
Authors: Trejo-Ramos Miguel A. , Tristán Ferdinando , Menchaca J.-Luis , Pérez Elías , Chávez-Páez M.
Published: January 2007

Brownian dynamics simulations were performed to study the structure of polyelectrolyte complexes formed by two flexible, oppositely charged polyelectrolyte chains. The distribution of monomers in the complex as well as the radius of gyration and structure factor of complexes and individual polyelectrolytes are reported. These structural properties were calculated for polyelectrolyte chains with equal number of monomers, keeping constant the bond length of the negative chain and increasing the bond length of the positive chain. This introduces an asymmetry in the length of the chains that modulates the final structure of the complexes. In the symmetric case the distribution of positive and negative monomers in the complex are identical, producing clusters that are locally and globally neutral. Deviations from the symmetric case lead to nonuniform, asymmetric monomer distributions, producing net charge oscillations inside the complex and large changes in the radius of gyration of the complex and individual chains. From the radius of gyration of the polyelectrolyte chains it is shown that the positive chain is much more folded than the negative chain when the chains are asymmetric, which is also confirmed through the scaling behavior of the structure factors.
Initial growth behavior and resulting microstructural properties of heteroepitaxial ZnO thin films on sapphire (0001) substrates
Authors: Liu C. , Chang S. H. , Noh T. W. , Abouzaid M. , Ruterana P. , Lee H. H. , Kim D.-W. , Chung J.-S.
Published: January 2007

The initial growth behavior and resulting microstructural properties of heteroepitaxial ZnO thin films prepared by pulsed laser deposition on sapphire (0001) substrates were investigated. High-resolution x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy studies revealed that the initial growth behavior and the microstructure of the films were significantly dependent on the growth parameters employed. ZnO films grown at 700°C with an O2 partial pressure of 20mTorr initiated in a columnar growth mode and contained two types of domains. These domains were in plane orientated either ZnO[112¯0]‖Al2O3[101¯0] or ZnO[101¯0]‖Al2O3[101¯0] and were surrounded by highly defective domain boundaries with threading dislocations. ZnO films grown at 800°C with 1mTorr O2 showed a two-dimensional layered growth with only one in-plane epitaxial relationship, ZnO[112¯0]‖Al2O3[101¯0]. Most of the defects in the layered grown films were basal plane stacking faults near the interface between the ZnO and the substrate. The mechanism of formation of the 30°-twisted domains with the in-plane orientation of ZnO[101¯0]‖Al2O3[101¯0] is discussed.
Postnatal lymphatic partitioning from the blood vasculature in the small intestine requires fasting-induced adipose factor
Authors: Bäckhed Fredrik , Crawford Peter A. , O'Donnell David , Gordon Jeffrey I.
Published: January 2007

Lymphatic vessels develop from specialized venous endothelial cells. Using knockout mice, we found that fasting-induced adipose factor (Fiaf) is required for functional partitioning of postnatal intestinal lymphatic and blood vessels. In wild-type animals, levels of intestinal Fiaf expression rise during the first postnatal day and peak at day 2, which coincides with the onset of the lymphatico-venous partitioning abnormality in
Fiaf
−/− mutants on a mixed 129/SvJ:C57BL/6 genetic background. Fiaf deficiency is not associated with disruption of the blood vasculature or with lymphatic endothelial recruitment of smooth muscle cells. We identified
Prox1
, a critical regulator of lymphangiogenesis, as a downstream target for Fiaf signaling in the intestinal lymphatic endothelium. This organ-specific lymphovascular abnormality can be rescued by allowing embryonic
Fiaf
−/− intestinal isografts to develop in
Fiaf
+/+ recipients.