bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of a Novel Series of Benzothiazolo‐Quinazolones on Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Biological Evaluations
Authors: Shukla Gauri , Tiwari Anjani K. , Singh Vinay K. , Bajpai Aruna , Chandra Harish , Mishra Anil K.
Published: November 2008

A newly designed benzothiazolo‐quinazolone series was synthesized by an aromatic amine and potassium thiocyanate in the presence of bromine in glacial acetic acid, and the final product was obtained by subsequent reaction with 5‐arylamido/imidoalkyl‐2‐chlorobenzoic acid in the presence of potassium carbonate and further cyclization with sulphuric acid. A preliminary radiolabelling study with technetium shows a promising potential for furtherin vivoevaluation. Anti‐bacterial, anti‐viral and anti‐tumor activities were evaluated for biological properties. Lead compounds are able to block epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in human breast adenocarcinoma cell line, MCF‐7.
Identification of Endomorphin‐1 and Endomorphin‐2 Binding Sites in Human μ‐Opioid Receptor by Antisense Oligonucleotide Strategy
Authors: Fichna Jakub , Gach Katarzyna , Perlikowska Renata , Poels Jeroen , Vanden Broeck Jozef , Szemraj Janusz , Janecka Anna
Published: November 2008

The effects of phosphorothioate antisense oligodeoxynucleotides against exons‐1, ‐2, ‐3 and ‐4 of the human μ‐opioid receptor were studied in the CHO‐μ‐opioid receptor cells using aequorin luminescence‐based calcium assay. All four antisense oligodeoxynucleotides significantly decreased the level of μ‐opioid receptor mRNA in comparison with the non‐treated cells, used as control. However, no statistically significant differences between antisense oligodeoxynucleotides were observed. antisense oligodeoxynucleotides against exon‐2 attenuated endomorphin‐1‐induced intracellular calcium response in a concentration‐dependent manner. antisense oligodeoxynucleotides against exons‐1, ‐2, ‐3 and ‐4 inhibited endomorphin‐2‐induced intracellular calcium response in a concentration‐dependent manner and the effect of antisense oligodeoxynucleotides against exons‐3 and ‐4 was most pronounced. The mismatch oligodeoxynucleotides against respective exons failed to exert any effect. The selective actions of antisense probes directed against different exons of the human μ‐opioid receptor gene, that resulted, at the protein level, in attenuation of calcium responses induced by endomorphin‐1 and endomorphin‐2, suggest that the binding sites for endomorphins are structurally and functionally different. The presence of functionally distinct binding sites might play a crucial role in the modulation of pain and may be important clinically.
Effects of Hydrophobicity on the Antifungal Activity of α‐Helical Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Jiang Ziqing , Kullberg Bart Jan , Van Der Lee Hein , Vasil Adriana I. , Hale John D. , Mant Colin T. , Hancock Robert E. W. , Vasil Michael L. , Netea Mihai G. , Hodges Robert S.
Published: November 2008

We utilized a series of analogs of D‐V13K (a 26‐residue amphipathic α‐helical antimicrobial peptide, denoted D1) to compare and contrast the role of hydrophobicity on antifungal and antibacterial activity to the results obtained previously with Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Antifungal activity for zygomycota fungi decreased with increasing hydrophobicity (D‐V13K/A12L/A20L/A23L, denoted D4, the most hydrophobic analog was sixfold less active than D1, the least hydrophobic analog). In contrast, antifungal activity for ascomycota fungi increased with increasing hydrophobicity (D4, the most hydrophobic analog was fivefold more active than D1). Hemolytic activity is dramatically affected by increasing hydrophobicity with peptide D4 being 286‐fold more hemolytic than peptide D1. The therapeutic index for peptide D1 is 1569‐fold and 62‐fold better for zygomycota fungi and ascomycota fungi, respectively, compared with peptide D4. To reduce the hemolytic activity of peptide D4 and improve/maintain the antifungal activity of D4, we substituted another lysine residue in the center of the non‐polar face (V16K) to generate D5 (D‐V13K/V16K/A12L/A20L/A23L). This analog D5 decreased hemolytic activity by 13‐fold, enhanced antifungal activity to zygomycota fungi by 16‐fold and improved the therapeutic index by 201‐fold compared with D4 and represents a unique approach to control specificity while maintaining high hydrophobicity in the two hydrophobic segments on the non‐polar face of D5.
Inhibitors of Tubulin Assembly Identified through Screening a Compound Library
Authors: Morgan Rachel E. , Ahn Sunjoo , Nzimiro Sandra , Fotie Jean , Phelps Mitch A. , Cotrill Jeffrey , Yakovich Adam J. , Sackett Dan L. , Dalton James T. , Werbovetz Karl A.
Published: November 2008

Tubulin is the proposed target for drugs against cancer and helminths and is also a validated target in kinetoplastid parasites. With the aim of identifying new lead compounds against Leishmania sp., tubulin isolated from L. tarentolae was used to screen a 10 000 compound library. One compound, Chembridge No. 7992831 (5), displayed an IC50 of 13 μm against Leishmania tubulin in an in vitro assembly assay and showed a greater than threefold selectivity over mammalian tubulin. Another compound, Chembridge No. 9067250 (8), exhibited good activity against mammalian tubulin (IC50 = 5.0 μm). This compound was also toxic to several cancer cell lines with IC50 values in the region of 1 μm. Subsequent testing of analogues of 8 contained within the library identified two compounds with greater potency against mammalian tubulin (IC50 values of 1.1 and 2.8 μm). The more potent antitubulin agent also showed promising activity against cancer cell lines in vitro, with IC50 values ranging from 0.18 to 0.73 μm.
Identification of Novel HCV RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase Inhibitors Using Pharmacophore‐Guided Virtual Screening
Authors: Kim Jinyoung , Kim Ki‐sun , Kim Dong‐Eun , Chong Youhoon
Published: November 2008

We performed pharmacophore‐guided virtual screening experiments using FlexX‐Pharm to identify novel inhibitors of hepatitis C virus RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase. Pharmacophore model generated from our previous analysis of the binding modes as well as structure‐based three‐dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship studies of aryl diketoacid analogues was used. In pharmacophore‐guided virtual screening study, among 37 447 compounds in LeadQuest chemical library, 40 compounds were selected as novel candidates of hepatitis C virus RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase inhibitors, and their biological activities were evaluated. Especially, T29 was chosen for further development.
Potential Glucocorticoid Receptor Ligands with Pulmonary Selectivity Using I‐QSAR with the Signature Molecular Descriptor
Authors: Jackson Joshua D. , Weis Derick C. , Visco Jr Donald P.
Published: November 2008

We intend in this research to establish a rational method for the development of novel glucocorticoid receptor ligands to more effectively prevent respiratory inflammation. Corticosteroids, a class of steroid hormones, are naturally inclined to bind to the glucocorticoid receptor and, in this research, are the basis for exploring other novel and non‐intuitive structures. To be more effective than currently available medications, novel compounds must be highly selective toward the lungs and must be inactivated when exposed to the main circulation, thus preventing the participation of the ligand in other systems and consequently reducing systemic side‐effects. We look to use the inverse‐quantitative structure–activity relationship algorithm with the Signature molecular descriptor to generate new ligands based upon the structures and activities of 65 experimentally studied corticosteroids. Inverse‐quantitative structure–activity relationship explore many possible combinations of atom connectivity while structural filters and other scoring approaches are used to predict and identify the most promising candidates for further study. Properties explored include high receptor binding affinity, high systemic clearance, high plasma protein binding and low oral bioavailability. Among more than 300 million potential candidates generated, 84 high priority compounds with properties predicted to be at least as or more effective than currently available corticosteroids have been identified with this procedure.
Novel Aminomethylindole Derivatives as Inhibitors of pp60c‐Src Tyrosine Kinase: Synthesis and Biological Activity
Authors: İşgör Yasemin G. , Kılıç Zuhal , Ölgen Süreyya
Published: November 2008

The pp60c‐Src is one of the ubiquitously expressed Src family kinases and has important functions in malignant cells, including regulation of cell division, growth factor signaling, and movement. Therefore, investigating new small molecule inhibitors of pp60c‐Src is important to discover and develop novel therapeutics for cancer and metastasis. Moreover, some of the small molecule inhibitors that do not qualify for therapeutic use may become very useful tool to explore the role of Src kinase in normal cells as well as in a variety of disease models. Our continuous efforts to find novel inhibitors of pp60c‐Src aimed for therapeutic and research use, we synthesized newly designed aminomethylindole derivatives as novel small molecule inhibitors and investigated their inhibitory effect on pp60c‐Src tyrosine kinase. Here, we report one potential inhibitor of the pp60c‐Src from five active molecules of all nine compounds, which were synthesized and screened for the biological activity of the molecules against pp60c‐Src target.
Exploring QSAR for Substituted 2‐Sulfonyl‐Phenyl‐Indol Derivatives as Potent and Selective COX‐2 Inhibitors Using Different Chemometrics Tools
Authors: Khoshneviszadeh Mehdi , Edraki Najmeh , Miri Ramin , Hemmateenejad Bahram
Published: November 2008

Selective inhibition of cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitors is an important strategy in designing of potent anti‐inflammatory compounds with significantly reduced side effects. The present quantitative structure–activity relationship study, attempts to explore the structural and physicochemical requirements of 2‐sulfonyl–phenyl–indol derivatives (n = 30) for COX‐2 inhibitory activity using chemical, topological, geometrical, and quantum descriptors. Some statistical techniques like stepwise regression, multiple linear regression with factor analysis as the data preprocessing (FA‐MLR), principal component regression analysis, and genetic algorithms partial least squares analysis were applied to derive the quantitative structure–activity relationship models. The generated equations were statistically validated using cross‐validation and external test set. The quality of equations obtained from stepwise multiple linear regression, FA‐MLR, principal component regression analysis and PLS were in the acceptable statistical range. The best multiple linear regression equation obtained from factor analysis (FA‐MLR) as the preprocessing step could predict 77.5% of the variance of the cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitory activity whereas that derived from genetic algorithms partial least squares could predict 84.2% of variances. The results of quantitative structure–activity relationship models suggested the importance of lipophilicity, electronegativity, molecular area and steric parameters on the cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibitory activity.
The Structure of Glycosaminoglycans and their Interactions with Proteins
Authors: Gandhi Neha S. , Mancera Ricardo L.
Published: November 2008

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are important complex carbohydrates that participate in many biological processes through the regulation of their various protein partners. Biochemical, structural biology and molecular modelling approaches have assisted in understanding the molecular basis of such interactions, creating an opportunity to capitalize on the large structural diversity of GAGs in the discovery of new drugs. The complexity of GAG–protein interactions is in part due to the conformational flexibility and underlying sulphation patterns of GAGs, the role of metal ions and the effect of pH on the affinity of binding. Current understanding of the structure of GAGs and their interactions with proteins is here reviewed: the basic structures and functions of GAGs and their proteoglycans, their clinical significance, the three‐dimensional features of GAGs, their interactions with proteins and the molecular modelling of heparin binding sites and GAG–protein interactions. This review focuses on some key aspects of GAG structure–function relationships using classical examples that illustrate the specificity of GAG–protein interactions, such as growth factors, anti‐thrombin, cytokines and cell adhesion molecules. New approaches to the development of GAG mimetics as possible new glycotherapeutics are also briefly covered.
Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Biological Evaluation of N‐Protected Cyclopropylethylcarbamates as Potential Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor
Authors: Jung Jae‐Chul , Moon Hyung‐In , Oh Seikwan
Published: November 2008

A simple synthesis involving a key coupling reaction and biological activity of N‐protected cyclopropylethylcarbamates (18–21) are described. The key fragments are amine·HCl salt (13) and acids (16 and 17) which were smoothly coupled by using 2‐(7‐aza‐1H‐benzotriazol‐1‐yl)‐1,1,3,3‐tetramethyluroniumhexafluorophosphate in high yield. We have found that the in vitro growth inhibitory potency of new compound 19 exhibited good histone deacetylase activity.
67Gallium citrate scintigraphy to assess metastatic spread in a dog with an oral melanoma
Authors: Liuti T. , DeVos J. , Bosman T. , Van DeWiele C. , Grinwis G. C. M. , VanBree H. , Peremans K.
Published: November 2008

Gallium scintigraphy was used to evaluate therapeutic response in a 10‐year‐old, male, Dutch sheepdog, suffering from an oral melanoma. Treatment was performed with a combination of carboplatin and hypofractionated radiation. Nineteen weeks after radiation therapy, the left submandibular lymph node was surgically removed because of metastatic disease. Thirty weeks after radiation therapy,67Gallium scintigraphy was performed to assess for residual disease and metastasis. Increased uptake in the right submandibular lymph node area was noted and identified as a melanoma metastasis on cytology. Surgical excision was performed. Twenty‐one weeks later, the dog was euthanased because of advanced pulmonary metastases. This report of a case of oral melanoma illustrates the advantages of67Gallium scintigraphy in monitoring for the presence of metastatic disease and effectiveness of therapy.
Radiographic appearance of cardiogenic pulmonary oedema in 23 cats
Authors: Benigni L. , Morgan N. , Lamb C. R.
Published: November 2008

Objective: To describe the radiographic appearance of pulmonary oedema in cats with cardiac failure.

Methods: Thoracic radiographs of 23 cats presented to a first opinion practice with signs of cardiac failure were reviewed. All cats had tachypnoea and/or dyspnoea and enlarged left atrium on echocardiography.

Results: Pulmonary oedema was characterised radiographically by an increased opacity associated with a range of patterns and variable distribution. All cats had evidence of a reticular or granular interstitial pattern. This occurred in combination with alveolar pattern in 19 (83 per cent) cats, including six with air bronchograms, with increased diameter of pulmonary vessels in 16 (71 per cent) cats and with bronchial pattern in 14 (61 per cent) cats. The distribution of pulmonary oedema was considered to be diffuse/non‐uniform in 14 (61 per cent) cats, diffuse/uniform in four (17 per cent) cats, multi‐focal in four (17 per cent) cats and focal in the remaining one (4 per cent). Nine (39 per cent) cats were considered to have a regional distribution of oedema, including five (22 per cent) with a ventral distribution, three (13 per cent) with a caudal distribution and one (4 per cent) cat with a hilar distribution. The distribution of pulmonary opacities was bilaterally symmetrical in five (22 per cent) cats.

Clinical Significance: The variable appearance of feline pulmonary oedema is likely to complicate its radiographic diagnosis.
Spectrum of computed tomographic findings in 58 canine elbows with fragmentation of the medial coronoid process
Authors: Groth A. M. , Benigni L. , Moores A. P. , Lamb C. R.
Published: November 2008

Objective:To describe in detail the computed tomographic findings in elbows of dogs with fragmentation of the medial coronoid process of the ulna.

Methods:Retrospective review of computed tomographic images of 58 elbows that had displaced medial coronoid process fragment(s), non‐displaced medial coronoid process fragment or a stable fissure in the articular cartilage of the medial coronoid process at arthroscopy.

Results:Bone fragments were observed in 85 per cent elbows with a displaced fragment at arthroscopy, in 18 per cent elbows with a non‐displaced fragment and in 29 per cent elbows with a stable fissure. Fissures in the subchondral bone were observed in computed tomographic images of 43 per cent elbows that had a stable fissure at arthroscopy. Abnormal shape, sclerosis and lucency affecting the medial coronoid process, subchondral sclerosis of the ulna and humerus, irregular radial incisure of the ulna and periarticular osteophytes were observed in a similar proportion in dogs regardless of the arthroscopic findings. Kissing lesions affecting the medial aspect of the humeral condyle were mainly associated with displaced fragments. Signs of joint incongruity were observed in dorsal and sagittal reconstructed computed tomographic images in 24 per cent elbows.

ClinicalSignificance:A wide range of abnormalities may be observed in computed tomographic images of dogs with fragmented medial coronoid process. Computed tomographic is moderately sensitive for detection of fragments.
Canine dilated cardiomyopathy: a retrospective study of signalment, presentation and clinical findings in 369 cases
Authors: Martin M. W. S. , Stafford Johnson M. J. , Celona B.
Published: November 2008

Objective:To review the clinical and diagnostic findings and survival of dilated cardiomyopathy from a large population of dogs in England.

Methods:A retrospective study of the case records of dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy collected between January 1993 and May 2006.

Results:There were 369 dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy of which all were pure‐bred dogs except for four. The most commonly affected breeds were dobermanns and boxers. Over 95 per cent of dogs weighed more than 15 kg and 73 per cent were male. The median duration of signs before referral was three weeks with 65 per cent presenting in stage 3 heart failure. The most common signs were breathlessness (67 per cent) and coughing (64 per cent). The majority of dogs (89 per cent) had an arrhythmia at presentation and 74 per cent of dogs had radiographic signs of pulmonary oedema or pleural effusion. The median survival time was 19 weeks.

ClinicalSignificance:Dilated cardiomyopathy occurs primarily in medium to large breed pure‐bred dogs, and males are more frequently affected than females. The duration of clinical signs before referral is often short and the survival times are poor. Greater awareness of affected breeds, clinical signs and diagnostic findings may help in early recognition of this disease which often has a short clinical phase.
Use of intralesional oestradiol concentration to identify a functional pulmonary metastasis of canine sertoli cell tumour
Authors: Gopinath D. , Draffan D. , Philbey A. W. , Bell R.
Published: November 2008

A seven‐year‐old, 31 kg male neutered Labrador was investigated for signs of feminisation syndrome and prostatic disease four years after castration and removal of a testicular sertoli cell tumour (SCT). Investigations revealed an elevated serum oestradiol‐17β concentration, a pulmonary mass containing fluid high in oestradiol‐17β and cystic changes in the prostate gland. The pulmonary mass was surgically excised and histologically confirmed to be a SCT metastasis. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported case of a proven functional extranodal SCT metastasis and the first to be diagnosed by oestradiol‐17β measurement of intralesional fluid.
What Prompts the People's Bank of China to Change Its Monetary Policy Stance? Evidence from a Discrete Choice Model
Authors: He Dong , Pauwels Laurent L.
Published: November 2008

In the present paper, we model the policy stance of the People's Bank of China (PBC) as a latent variable, and the discrete changes in the reserve requirement ratio, policy interest rates, and the scale of open market operations are taken as signals of movement of this latent variable. We run a discrete choice regression that relates these observed indicators of policy stance to major trends of macroeconomic and financial developments, which are represented by common factors extracted from a large number of variables. The predicted value of the estimated model can then be interpreted as the implicit policy stance of the PBC. In a second step, we estimate how much of the variation in the PBC's implicit stance can be explained by measures of its policy objectives on inflation, growth and financial stability. We find that deviations of CPI inflation from an implicit target and deviations of broad money growth from the announced targets, but not output gaps, figure significantly in the PBC's policy changes.
Labor Market Reform, Income Inequality and Economic Growth in China
Authors: Lu Ming , Jiang Shiqing
Published: November 2008

The year 1996 was a turning point both in terms of Chinese labor market reform and in China's economic growth pattern. Before 1996, labor market reform was mainly implemented through adjustment of people's occupation and income structure. Since 1996, employment restructuring has led to differentiation in terms of employment status. Labor market reform in the former stage resulted in slow growth in wages, whereas reform in the latter stage enhanced economic efficiency. Both stages have enabled the Chinese economy to apply its comparative advantage of low labor cost. Labor market reform has also increased income disparity and, therefore, new challenges are posed in sustaining economic growth. China needs to adjust its development strategies and introduce labor market reform that can improve income equality, so as to achieve sustainable economic development.
A Perspective on Cyberinfrastructure for Water Research Driven by Informatics Methodologies
Authors: Bajcsy Peter
Published: November 2008

This article presents a perspective on cyberinfrastructure (CI) for water research driven by informatics methodologies. This perspective is motivated by the fact that CI for water research should increase scientific productivity of a single investigator and dispersed teams in their exploratory studies of experimental observations and theoretical simulations. In the digital era and within the context of CI, the scientific productivity is often determined by the efficiency of data‐centric and collaboration‐centric activities. These activities follow domain‐specific methodologies and informatics approaches aiming at extracting information and knowledge from raw data. We present the concepts of data‐centric and collaboration‐centric activities supported by concrete examples, and outline the challenges and requirements on CI driven by these informatics activities. Then, we describe a set of common activities cutting across multiple earth science disciplines, and discuss some solutions that already exist or might have to be developed in order to support informatics methodologies. Our perspective emphasizes the importance of exploratory science that is frequently present in informatics methodologies. The contribution of this article is in illuminating the CI development from a perspective that bridges daily activities of many water research scientists with the CI components and functionality.
Application of Virtual Globes in Education
Authors: Rakshit Rahul , Ogneva‐Himmelberger Yelena
Published: November 2008

The advent of virtual globes and online mapping has generated interest in spatial representations of data among many non‐geographic communities, including educators and researchers who have very little to no expertise in geospatial technologies. In this article, we give a state‐of‐the‐art survey of existing virtual globes and review the existing teaching applications related to them. We focus on the four most popular virtual globes (Google Earth; NASA World Wind; Microsoft Virtual Earth Earth; and Skyline Globe), illustrating their various applications and comparing their capabilities, with a particular emphasis on educational aspects. We also explain the distinction between the virtual globes and various online mapping applications, such as Google Maps mash‐ups.
Globalization of an Aquatic Pest: Economic Costs, Ecological Outcomes, and Positive Applications of Zebra Mussel Invasions and Expansions
Authors: Ram Jeffrey L. , Palazzolo Stacey M.
Published: November 2008

The development of trade and tourism has been as important as the biological adaptations of zebra mussels and quagga mussels in mediating the historic spread of these organisms in Europe and their invasion of North America. Canals and increased commerce mediated the spread of zebra mussels in Europe at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution and facilitated their introduction to North America near the end of the 20th century. However, recreational boating is the most likely vehicle for the more recent intracontinental invasions of alpine and subalpine lakes in Europe and the recent leap of these freshwater mussels across the Continental Divide in North America. Although viewed as pests due to their biofouling effects, their economic costs to drinking water and electrical power plant companies have been smaller than once feared, and their negative impacts on other organisms have been smaller than predicted in the more than 20 years since the start of their invasion of North America. This review of recent publications reveals that positive outcomes of the presence of zebra mussels and quagga mussels have begun to be apparent, which help ameliorate the economic costs and negative ecological outcomes that have accompanied the globalization of this aquatic pest.
The Impact of Fair Trade on Social and Economic Development: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Le Mare Ann
Published: November 2008

This article explores the outcomes of Fair Trade for producers, artisans and their organisations. It asks the question, ‘what happens to people who are involved in Fair Trade?’, and reviews the case studies and empirical research conducted on Fair Trade for a range of products in different countries. The article is organised around important aspects of development which Fair Trade seeks to influence, including market relations, institutional development, economic development and reductions in poverty, social development, gender equity and sustainable development. The outcomes are diverse and complex, though, most studies found significant impact on social and economic aspects of development, contributing to the capacity to improve and diversify livelihoods. Fostering sustainable commercial organisations is an important contribution of Fair Trade networks. However, there appears to be less success in achieving gender equality and dealing with issues of importance to women. Both the enactment of partnership and the achievement of development goals require continuous commitment, a variety of strategies and cooperation with other actors, such as government and non‐governmental organisations.
Professionals of Geopolitics: Agency in International Politics
Authors: Kuus Merje
Published: November 2008

This article highlights the key role of intellectuals of statecraft – the politicians, academics, consultants, and pundits who regularly participate in and comment on the practice of international affairs – in the practice of geopolitics. These professionals command the institutional and cultural resources required to project particular geopolitical arguments as informed and authoritative. We, therefore, need to carefully unpack the ways in which they influence world politics. To focus on intellectuals of statecraft is not to assign superior or authentic knowledge to them or to needlessly glamorize the high places they inhabit. It is rather to analyse the practices that function as expert and legitimate in public debates. To this end, we need to examine not only what intellectuals of statecraft do or say, but also the institutional and cultural resources that they deploy in their daily practices. The article suggests some strategies for how such contextually rich accounts could be produced.
Critical Geographies of Body Size
Authors: Hopkins Peter
Published: November 2008

The study of various markers of social identity has been a central focus for much work within social and cultural geography for around 30 years now. Although this work has arguably reached a critical mass within the discipline, certain indicators of identity and markers of social and cultural difference have been neglected within human geography. In particular, there is a lack of research that focuses on critical geographies of body size, with the exception of a small literature about fat bodies. Drawing on three trends within the social identities literature within human geography as well as from recent research in neighbouring disciplines, I suggest various ways in which human geographers might seek to develop critical geographies of body size. First, it is proposed that the focus on fat bodies could usefully be extended to include the experiences of those who are thin, small or tall. Second, following other work about social identities in geography, work about body size could benefit from a perspective informed by social inequality and political action. Third, exploring the intersection of body size with other social identities and markers of difference could advance research in this area by excavating the multiple and overlapping ways in which people's body size influence and are shaped by their negotiations of everyday places.
Can Mixed‐Income Housing Ameliorate Concentrated Poverty? The Significance of a Geographically Informed Sense of Community
Authors: Fraser James , Nelson Michael H.
Published: November 2008

Since the 1990s, public policymakers have renewed support for mixed‐income housing development in low‐income neighborhoods as a means toward neighborhood revitalization and poverty amelioration. Research to date finds that, while mixed‐income developments in lower‐income neighborhoods have promoted area revitalization, they have accomplished less for people in these areas who live in poverty. This article focuses on mixed‐income projects that seek to de‐concentrate poverty in impoverished, urban neighborhoods. It finds that, because these efforts are largely market‐based approaches, they have paid less direct attention to the needs of lower‐income residents. While this shortcoming may be attributed to structural barriers that prevent developers, housing authorities, and service providers from implementing effective practices, resource limitations can be offset by strong community‐based participation. Drawing on this conclusion, it is suggested that community empowerment strategies should be implemented in tandem with mixed‐income approaches in order to achieve positive outcomes for lower‐income residents, but that reliance on place‐based community will unlikely create the necessary conditions to improve the wealth and everyday quality of life issues that poor people face in a predominantly market‐based economy.
Exploring Collaborative Environmental Governance: Perspectives on Bridging and Actor Agency
Authors: Ali‐Khan Farrah , Mulvihill Peter R.
Published: November 2008

This article explores the prospect and practice of alternative and more collaborative approaches to environmental governance, focusing on recent North American experience and with particular attention to: (i) characteristic barriers to effective and collaborative environmental governance; (ii) approaches to collaboration and bridging between actors and sectors; and (iii) the potential role of actor agency. The focus of inquiry is primarily on recent North American experience. The key literature on environmental governance is discussed, and interviews conducted with environmental practitioners, academics, government officials and community leaders to explore and analyse their experiences with environmental governance are analysed. Collectively, these experiences suggest that there is a need for more skilful bridging of actors and initiatives, and a greater role for governments in facilitating collaborative approaches. The interviews also point to a number of challenges that must be overcome before the full potential of collaborative environmental governance can be realized. Although some researchers advocate the need for unified and overarching approaches to environmental governance, there is considerable evidence indicating that efforts are better directed towards building networks and collaboration among a wide diversity of actors, philosophies and approaches.
An Island of Green in the Sunburnt Country: The Rainforest of the Humid Tropics of Northeastern Australia and Their Response to Quaternary Environmental Change
Authors: Moss Patrick T.
Published: November 2008

The Humid Tropics of northeastern Australia is a region of exceptional diversity and productivity that reflects many of the characteristics of similar tropical biomes. In the Australian context, it is a unique environment being a virtual ‘island of green’ surrounded by the more typical sclerophyll (i.e. dry and fire prone) landscapes of Australia. This article will examine the modern ecological characteristics of the region, as well as providing historical context by discussing the response of the humid tropics communities to Quaternary environmental upheavals and the possible implications that these alterations have for understanding ecosystem response to future environmental change.
Modeling the Association between 43 Different Clinical and Pathological Variables and the Severity of Cognitive Impairment in a Large Autopsy Cohort of Elderly Persons
Authors: Nelson Peter T. , Abner Erin L. , Schmitt Frederick A. , Kryscio Richard J. , Jicha Gregory A. , Smith Charles D. , Davis Daron G. , Poduska John W. , Patel Ela , Mendiondo Marta S. , Markesbery William R.
Published: November 2008

We evaluated the association between mini‐mental status examination (MMSE) scores proximal to death and the values of 43 different clinical and pathological parameters. Studies were performed using data from 334 elderly, longitudinally evaluated research subjects who had undergone autopsy and satisfied inclusion criteria from an initial study group of 501. Interindividual variance in MMSE scores was used as a surrogate for the severity of cognitive impairment linked to aging (CILA). A statistical linear regression‐based model provided a framework for assessing the parameters with significant, direct impact on CILA severity. Strong association between CILA and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology, especially isocortical neurofibrillary tangles, was evident. The pattern of association between AD lesion densities with cognitive impairment severity was biologically informative, with neuritic plaques having more impact in relatively high‐functioning individuals. Abundant isocortical Lewy bodies tended to be an additive pathology correlating with final MMSE scores approximately 10 points lower. In a subset of cases we found evidence for association between TDP‐43‐related pathology and CILA severity, independent of AD or hippocampal sclerosis. There was no support for independent association between CILA severity and most evaluated indices including diffuse plaques, argyrophilic grains, heart disease, education level, apolipoprotein E alleles or diabetes.
Compare Activities on Regulating Lipid‐Metabolism and Reducing Oxidative Stress of Diabetic Rats of Tremella Aurantialba Broth's Extract (TBE) with Its Mycelia Polysaccharides (TMP)
Authors: Zhang Z.C. , Lian B. , Huang D.M. , Cui F.J.
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACT:  Abnormal lipid‐metabolism and elevated oxidative stress are the familiar complications of diabetic mellitus. Regulated lipid‐metabolism and decreased oxidative stress have become the key indices to cure diabetic complications. The activities of broth extract (TBE) and mycelia polysaccharides (TMP) of Tremella aurantialba, which is one of the best‐known multipurpose medicinal fungi in China, were studied using alloxan‐induced diabetic rats. TBE contains saponins, while TMP contains polysaccharides. Both TBE and TMP could reduce the blood glucose levels of diabetic rats; TBE had stronger abilities to reduce the levels of total cholesterol and total triglyceride in serum, those of malondialdehyde, and enhance the activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase in different tissues of diabetic rats (P < 0.01). TBE had slightly stronger abilities to enhance the total antioxidant capability, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in different tissues of diabetic rats, but no significant difference was found between TBE and TMP groups. All these results indicated that TBE was more capable of regulating lipid‐metabolism and decreasing oxidative stress.
Effect of Pasteurization, High‐Pressure Processing, and Retorting on the Barrier Properties of Nylon 6, Nylon 6/Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol, and Nylon 6/Nanocomposites Films
Authors: Halim L. , Pascall M.A. , Lee J. , Finnigan B.
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACT:  This study determined the impact of pasteurization, high‐pressure processing (HPP), and retorting on the barrier properties of nylon 6 (N6), nylon 6/ethylene vinyl alcohol (N6/EVOH), and nylon 6/nanocomposite (N6/nano) materials. The pasteurized and high‐pressure treated films were coextruded with low‐density polyethylene (PE) as the heat‐sealing layer. The retorted films were coextruded with polypropylene (PP). Oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of the samples were measured after pasteurization (75 °C for 30 min), HPP (800 MPa for 10 min at 70 °C), and retorting (121 °C for 30 min) treatments. These were compared with the thermal characteristics and morphologies of the samples using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Results showed that OTR of N6 and N6/Nano increased after HPP (16.9% and 39.7%), pasteurization (13.3% and 75.9%), and retorting (63.3% and 112.6%), respectively. For N6/EVOH, a decrease in OTR after HPP (53.9%) and pasteurization (44.5%) was observed. The HPP treatment increased the WVTR of N6 (21.0%), N6/EVOH (48.9%), and N6/Nano (21.2%). The WVTR of N6, N6/EVOH, and N6/Nano increased by 96.7%, 43.8%, and 40.7%, respectively, after pasteurization. The DSC analyses showed that the enthalpy and percent crystallinity increased (2.3% to 6.5%) in the N6/Nano when compared with the N6 material after each treatment. Retorting caused a decrease (3.5%) in the percent crystallinity of the polypropylene material. HPP did not cause major morphological changes to the samples. Results of the barrier studies were influenced by the crystallinity changes in the materials as seen in the XRD diffractograms.
Effects of Electrical Stimulation on Histochemical Muscle Fiber Staining, Quality, and Composition of Camel and CattleLongissimus thoracisMuscles
Authors: Kadim I.T. , Mahgoub O. , Al‐Marzooqi W. , Khalaf S.K. , Mansour M.H. , Al‐Sinani S.S.H. , Al‐Amri I.S.
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACT: The effects of electrical stimulation on muscle fiber type, meat quality, and composition ofLongissimus thoracismuscles from one‐humped camels and Dofari Omani cattle of a comparable age range were investigated. A low‐voltage electrical stimulation with 90 V, 14 Hz (pulse of 7.5‐millisecond duration every 70 milliseconds) 20 min postmortem was applied. Samples from the left muscle were collected from 20 (2 to 3 y) camels and 24 cattle (1 to 3 y). For chemical composition, muscle samples were dried in a freeze dryer, and then ground to determine moisture, protein, fat, and ash. Macro‐ and micro‐minerals were determined using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission Spectrometer. Quality characteristics of the meat were evaluated using shear force value, pH, sarcomere, myofibrillar fragmentation index, expressed juice, cooking loss percent, and CIEL*,a*,b* color values. Electrical stimulation resulted in a significantly (P< 0.05) more rapid pH fall in the muscle during the first 24 h after slaughter in both species. Muscles from electrically stimulated carcasses had significantly (P< 0.05) lower ultimate pH, longer sarcomere, and lower shear force values than those from nonstimulated carcasses. Lightness (L*), myofibrillar fragmentation, and expressed juice were significantly (P< 0.05) higher for stimulated than for nonstimulated muscles. Muscles of camels had significantly (P< 0.05) higher expressed juice, cooking loss percent, redness color (a*), and lower fat, Mg, K, and P than those from cattle. Electrical stimulation improved quality characteristics of meat from both species. This indicates that meat quality of local camel and cattle can be improved by electrical stimulation and consequently improves their acceptability to consumers and better marketability.
Determination of Dextrose Equivalent Value and Number Average Molecular Weight of Maltodextrin by Osmometry
Authors: Rong Y. , Sillick M. , Gregson C.M.
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACT:  Dextrose equivalent (DE) value is the most common parameter used to characterize the molecular weight of maltodextrins. Its theoretical value is inversely proportional to number average molecular weight (Mn), providing a theoretical basis for correlations with physical properties important to food manufacturing, such as: hygroscopicity, the glass transition temperature, and colligative properties. The use of freezing point osmometry to measure DE and Mn was assessed. Measurements were made on a homologous series of malto‐oligomers as well as a variety of commercially available maltodextrin products with DE values ranging from 5 to 18. Results on malto‐oligomer samples confirmed that freezing point osmometry provided a linear response with number average molecular weight. However, noncarbohydrate species in some commercial maltodextrin products were found to be in high enough concentration to interfere appreciably with DE measurement. Energy dispersive spectroscopy showed that sodium and chloride were the major ions present in most commercial samples. Osmolality was successfully corrected using conductivity measurements to estimate ion concentrations. The conductivity correction factor appeared to be dependent on the concentration of maltodextrin. Equations were developed to calculate corrected values of DE and Mn based on measurements of osmolality, conductivity, and maltodextrin concentration. This study builds upon previously reported results through the identification of the major interfering ions and provides an osmolality correction factor that successfully accounts for the influence of maltodextrin concentration on the conductivity measurement. The resulting technique was found to be rapid, robust, and required no reagents.
External Concentration of Organic Acid Anions and pH: Key Independent Variables for Studying How Organic Acids Inhibit Growth of Bacteria in Mildly Acidic Foods
Authors: Carpenter C.E. , Broadbent J.R.
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACT:  Although the mechanisms by which organic acids inhibit growth of bacteria in mildly acidic foods are not fully understood, it is clear that intracellular accumulation of anions is a primary contributor to inhibition of bacterial growth. We hypothesize that intracellular accumulation of anions is driven by 2 factors, external anion concentration and external acidity. This hypothesis follows from basic chemistry principles that heretofore have not been fully applied to studies in the field, and it has led us to develop a novel approach for predicting internal anion concentration by controlling the external concentration of anions and pH. This approach overcomes critical flaws in contemporary experimental design that invariably target concentration of either protonated acid or total acid in the growth media thereby leaving anion concentration to vary depending on the pKa of the acids involved. Failure to control external concentration of anions has undoubtedly confounded results, and it has likely led to misleading conclusions regarding the antimicrobial action of organic acids. In summary, we advocate an approach for directing internal anion levels by controlling external concentration of anions and pH because it presents an additional opportunity to study the mechanisms by which organic acids inhibit bacterial growth. Knowledge gained from such studies would have important application in the control of important foodborne pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes, and may also facilitate efforts to promote the survival in foods or beverages of desirable probiotic bacteria.
Viscous Food Matrix Influences Absorption and Excretion but Not Metabolism of Blackcurrant Anthocyanins in Rats
Authors: Walton Michaela C. , Hendriks Wouter H. , Broomfield Anne M. , McGhie Tony K.
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACT:  The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a simultaneous intake of food and anthocyanins (ACNs) on ACN absorption, metabolism, and excretion. Blackcurrant ACNs (BcACNs) were dissolved in water with or without the addition of oatmeal and orally administered to rats, providing approximately 250 mg total ACNs per kilogram BW. Blood, urine, digesta, and tissue samples of the stomach, jejunum, and colon were subsequently collected at 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 7, and 24 h. Identification and quantification of ACNs were carried out by Reversed phase‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS). Four major ACNs were present in the blackcurrant extract: delphinidin 3‐O‐glucoside, delphinidin 3‐O‐rutinoside, cyanidin 3‐O‐glucoside, and cyanidin 3‐O‐rutinoside. In plasma, the 4 ACNs of blackcurrant were identified and quantified. The time to reach maximal total ACN plasma concentration (Cmax BcACN/water = 0.37 ± 0.07 μmol/L; Cmax BcACN/oatmeal = 0.20 ± 0.05 μmol/L) occurred faster after BcACN/water (tmax= 0.25 h), than after BcACN/oatmeal administration (tmax= 1.0 h). In digesta and tissue samples, the 4 original blackcurrant ACNs were detected. The relative concentration of rutinosides in the digesta increased during their passage through the gastrointestinal tract, while the glucosides decreased. Maximum ACN excretion in urine occurred later after BcACN/oatmeal than after BcACN/water administration (3 compared with 2 h). The 4 original ACNs of blackcurrant in their unchanged form, as well as several metabolites, were identified in the urine samples of both groups. The simultaneous intake of food affects ACN absorption and excretion in the urine, but not metabolism.
Sensory Stability of Ultra‐High Temperature Milk in Polyethylene Bottle
Authors: Petrus R.R. , Walter E.H.M. , Faria J.A.F. , Abreu L.F.
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACT:  The objective of this study was to evaluate the sensory stability of ultra‐high temperature (UHT) milk subjected to different heat treatments and stored at room temperature in white high density polyethylene bottles (HDPE) pigmented with titanium dioxide. Two lots of 300 units each were processed, respectively, at 135 and 141 °C/10 s using indirect heating and subsequently aseptically filled in an ISO class 7 clean room. These experimental lots were evaluated for appearance, aroma, flavor, and overall appreciation and compared to samples of commercial UHT milk purchased from local commercial stores. The time–temperature combinations investigated did not affect either the acceptability or the shelf life of the milk. Despite the limited light barrier properties of HDPE bottles, the product contained in the package tested exhibited good stability, with a shelf life ranging from 4 to 11 wk. Within this time period, the acceptability of the experimental lots was similar to that of the commercial products. The results achieved in this study contribute to turn the low‐cost UHT system investigated into a technically viable option for small‐size dairy processing plants.