bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attractiveness and toxicity of an attracticide formulation on adult males of ash leaf cone roller, Caloptilia fraxinella
Authors: Evenden Maya L. , Gries R. , Gries G.
Published: February 2008

A biodegradable attracticide formulation containing the pyrethroid insecticide permethrin and the sex pheromone of the ash leaf cone roller, Caloptilia fraxinella (Ely) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), was tested for attractiveness and toxicity to males of this invasive pest of horticultural ash, Fraxinus spp. Marsh. (Oleaceae). Trap capture in attracticide‐baited traps was equal to capture in traps baited with rubber septa lures releasing the known attractive pheromone. Pheromone response by male C. fraxinella was not affected by the presence of permethrin as equal numbers of males were captured in traps baited with the attracticide formulation with and without permethrin. Attraction to the attracticide containing both pheromone and insecticide active ingredients did not vary with dose as 10, 50, and 100 mg droplets of the formulation attracted similar numbers of male moths in a field experiment. Equal numbers of male moths were captured in traps baited with droplets that had aged for 0–5 weeks in a laboratory fume hood before deployment in the field. The permethrin constituent of the attracticide formulation was toxic to male moths treated through tarsal contact and resulted in 73 and 100% mortality at 24 and 72 h post‐treatment, respectively. Leg autotomy occurred in over 80% of males 24 h post‐treatment to formulations containing permethrin. Mortality of moths was greater 24 h after treatment with a fresh attracticide source as compared to a 5‐week‐old source. However, mortality as a result of treatment with fresh and aged attracticide droplets was equal at 48, 72, and 96 h post‐treatment. This formulation has the potential to become a useful tool in an integrated pest‐management system for C. fraxinella on horticultural ash.
Functional impairment of hematopoietic progenitor cells in patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Liguori Antonio , Fiorito Carmela , Balestrieri Maria Luisa , Crimi Ettore , Bruzzese Giuseppe , Williams‐Ignarro Sharon , D’Amora Maurizio , Sommese Linda , Grimaldi Vincenzo , Minucci Pellegrino Biagio , Giovane Alfonso , Farzati Bartolomeo , Ignarro Louis J. , Napoli Claudio
Published: February 2008

The circulating form of endothelial progenitors cells (EPCs) are derivated from bone marrow (BM)‐derived hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Enhanced mobilization of EPCs was shown to be linked to cardiac diseases. This study investigated whether reduced EPC levels in advanced coronary heart disease (CHD) are secondary to a functional exhaustion of HSCs in the BM or to reduced mobilization. Number and functional properties of EPCs were assessed in 15 healthy controls, and 40 patients with CHD. The colony‐forming unit (CFU) capacity of BM‐derived mononuclear cells and the CD34+ HSC number were examined in four healthy volunteers, and 15 CHD patients. EPC number was reduced in CHD patients (P < 0.01 vs. controls). Moreover, the migratory capacity was significantly impaired in EPCs of CHD patients (P < 0.05 vs. controls). On multivariate analysis, CHD was an independent predictor of functional EPC impairment. CFUs were reduced in CHD patients (59.6 ± 21.2 vs. 75.4 ± 25.8 in controls, P < 0.05). CHD was also predictor of impaired CFU capacity. In this small clinical study, CHD is associated with selective impairment of HSC function in the BM and in the peripheral blood, which may contribute to impairment of cardiac function.
PET/CT in the management of haematological malignancies
Authors: Hutchings Martin , Specht Lena
Published: February 2008

Positron emission tomography (PET)/computerised tomography (CT) has proved useful in a number of haematological malignancies, particularly in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL). It is recommended in the staging of HL and aggressive NHL, it has been shown to be prognostically important early during treatment, and it has been incorporated in the response criteria. However, treatment modification based on early scans is still experimental, and routine use in follow up cannot be recommended. The use of PET/CT in other lymphoma types and other haematological malignancies is still under evaluation.
Melatonin reduces body weight in goldfish (Carassius auratus): effects on metabolic resources and some feeding regulators
Authors: De Pedro Nuria , Martínez‐Álvarez Rosa Mª , Delgado Mª Jesús
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  The objective of the present study was to analyze the effects of chronic melatonin (10 μg/g body weight) on body weight and the main energetic reserves, particularly hepatic and muscle content of proteins, lipids and glycogen in goldfish. In addition, we studied plasma leptin and ghrelin, and hypothalamic content of neuropeptide Y (NPY) and monoamines after chronic melatonin treatment in order to elucidate a possible interplay between melatonin and these feeding regulators on the body weight regulation in this species. Body weight gain and specific growth rate were reduced (74% and 76%, respectively) after chronic (10 days) intraperitoneal (i.p.) treatment with melatonin. The carbohydrate and lipid metabolism was regulated by melatonin in goldfish, because this indoleamine reduced muscle glycogen stores and increased lipid mobilization. A suppressive trend, but not statistically significant, in circulating ghrelin was observed after chronic treatment with melatonin. Chronic melatonin administration significantly reduced noradrenergic metabolism and increased dihydroxiphenylacetic acid content in the hypothalamus, without significant modifications in the serotoninergic system. Thus, it could be suggested that melatonin may mediate its action on energy balance in fish, at least in part, via interactions with hypothalamic catecholaminergic system. Plasma leptin and hypothalamic NPY remained unaltered after melatonin treatment, suggesting that these feeding regulators may not be involved in the effects of melatonin on energy homeostasis in fish.
Control of the Intracellular Pathway of CD1e
Authors: Maître Blandine , Angénieux Catherine , Salamero Jean , Hanau Daniel , Fricker Dominique , Signorino François , Proamer Fabienne , Cazenave Jean‐Pierre , Goud Bruno , Tourne Sylvie , De La Salle Henri
Published: February 2008

CD1e is a membrane‐associated protein predominantly detected in the Golgi compartments of immature human dendritic cells. Without transiting through the plasma membrane, it is targeted to lysosomes (Ls) where it remains as a cleaved and soluble form and participates in the processing of glycolipidic antigens. The role of the cytoplasmic tail of CD1e in the control of its intracellular pathway was studied. Experiments with chimeric molecules demonstrated that the cytoplasmic domain determines a cellular pathway that conditions the endosomal cleavage of these molecules. Other experiments showed that the C‐terminal half of the cytoplasmic tail mediates the accumulation of CD1e in Golgi compartments. The cytoplasmic domain of CD1e undergoes monoubiquitinations, and its ubiquitination profile is maintained when its N‐ or C‐terminal half is deleted. Replacement of the eight cytoplasmic lysines by arginines results in a marked accumulation of CD1e in trans Golgi network 46+ compartments, its expression on the plasma membrane and a moderate slowing of its transport to Ls. Fusion of this mutated form with ubiquitin abolishes the accumulation of CD1e molecules in the Golgi compartments and restores the kinetics of their transport to Ls. Thus, ubiquitination of CD1e appears to trigger its exit from Golgi compartments and its transport to endosomes. This ubiquitin‐dependent pathway may explain several features of the very particular intracellular traffic of CD1e in dendritic cells compared with other CD1 molecules.
Principal—Principal Conflict in the Governance of the Chinese Public Corporation
Authors: Su Yiyi , Xu Dean , Phan Phillip H.
Published: February 2008

By examining the level of ownership concentration across firms, we determine how principal–principal conflict, defined as the incongruence of ownership goals among shareholder groups in a corporation, impacts agency costs of Chinese boards of directors. Based on data from Chinese companies listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges during 1999-2003, we found that ownership concentration had a U-shaped relationship with board compensation, board size and the presence of independent directors. These results provide corroborating evidence that principal-principal conflict can lead to high agency costs.
Assessment of How Pregnancy Modifies Plasma Lead and Plasma/Whole Blood Lead Ratio in ALAD 1‐1 Genotype Women
Authors: Montenegro Marcelo Freitas , Barbosa Fernando , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Pregnant women are one of the most sensitive populations to the toxic effects associated with lead (Pb) exposure. These effects are primarily associated with plasma Pb (Pb‐P), which reflects the most rapidly exchangeable fraction of Pb in the bloodstream, and elevated maternal Pb‐P may be more relevant to foetal Pb exposure than whole blood Pb (Pb‐B). We investigated how pregnancy affects Pb‐B, Pb‐P and %Pb‐P/Pb‐B ratios without the influence of the δ‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) G177C polymorphism, which is a major genetic factor influencing Pb‐B, Pb‐P and %Pb‐P/Pb‐B ratios. Genotypes for the ALAD G177C polymorphism were determined by PCR and restriction fragment length digestion in nine pregnant and 20 non‐pregnant women, aged 18–33, environmentally exposed to Pb. Here, we included only women with ALAD 1‐1 genotype. Pb‐P and Pb‐B were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, respectively. We found no differences in Pb‐B (P > 0.05). However, pregnant women had a 2‐fold increase in Pb‐P and a 3‐fold increase in %Pb‐P/Pb‐B (both P < 0.01) compared to non‐pregnant women. These alterations in Pb concentrations associated with pregnancy are similar to those associated with different ALAD gene variants. We can now better appreciate how pregnancy affects foetal exposure to Pb without the influence of this important genetic factor.
Changes in Antioxidant Status and Biochemical Indices after Acute Administration of Artemether, Artemether‐Lumefantrine and Halofantrine in Rats
Authors: Adaramoye Oluwatosin A. , Osaimoje Dorcas O. , Akinsanya Adewale M. , Nneji Chiaka M. , Fafunso Michael A. , Ademowo Olusegun G.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:   Artemether, artemether‐lumefantrine, or coartem and halofantrine are alternative antimalarial drugs to chloroquine. Their efficacy and potential to delay drug resistance in falciparum malaria had led to their increased use. Although these drugs have proven to be well tolerated, there are adverse effects associated with them. This study was designed to examine the toxic potential of acute administration of these drugs in rats. Twenty‐four rats were divided into four groups: group I (control) received distilled water; group II received artemether for 5 days with an initial dose of 3.2 g/kg body weight on day 1 and 1.6 mg/kg body weight on days 2–5; group III received coartem (27 mg/kg body weight/day) for 3 days, which was divided into two equal portions per day; and group IV received halofantrine (24 mg/kg body weight/day) in three equal portions. Administration of artemether, coartem and halofantrine caused significant decrease (P < 0.05) in reduced glutathione levels in the liver by 29%, 21% and 26%, respectively. In contrast, there were no significant differences (P > 0.05) in the kidney glutathione levels. Furthermore, artemether, coartem and halofantrine decreased the liver‐ and kidney‐enzymatic antioxidant status of the animals. Precisely, artemether, coartem and halofantrine decreased liver superoxide dismutase and catalase activities by 45%, 50% and 57%; and 20%, 29% and 23%, respectively. While the kidney catalase activities were decreased by 41%, 28% and 30%, respectively, the drugs however did not produce significant effect (P > 0.05) on the kidney superoxide dismutase activities. In addition, artemether, coartem and halofantrine decreased the hepatic levels of glutathione S‐transferase by 64%, 51% and 53%, respectively. Administration of artemether, coartem and halofantrine significantly increased (P < 0.05) liver and kidney lipid peroxidation levels by 67%, 50% and 81%; and 58%, 43% and 31%, respectively. This indicates that the liver is considerably more affected than the kidneys. Similarly, halofantrine treatment caused significant elevation (P < 0.05) in the levels of serum creatinine, aspartate and alanine aminotransferases and blood urea nitrogen by 73%, 66%, 61% and 63%, respectively. These data indicate that oral administration of artemether, coartem and halofantrine has adverse effects on both enzymic and non‐enzymatic antioxidant status of the animals.
HLA DRB1, DQB1 and insulin promoter VNTR polymorphisms: interactions and the association with adult‐onset diabetes mellitus in Czech patients
Authors: Cejkova P. , Novota P. , Cerna M. , Kolostova K. , Novakova D. , Kucera P. , Novak J. , Andel M. , Weber P. , Zdarsky E.
Published: February 2008

Both the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) DRB1 and the HLA DQB1 gene loci play a role in the development and progression of autoimmune diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Similarly, the insulin promoter variable number tandem repeats (INS‐VNTR) polymorphism is also involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus (DM). We studied the association between each of these polymorphisms and DM diagnosed in patients older than age 35 years. Furthermore, we analysed possible interactions between HLA DRB1/DQB1 and INS‐VNTR polymorphisms. Based on C‐peptide and GADA levels we were able to distinguish three types of diabetes: T1DM, latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) and T2DM. INS‐VNTR was genotyped indirectly by typing INS–23HphI A/T polymorphism. The genotype and allele frequencies of INS–23HphI did not differ between each of the diabetic groups and group of healthy subjects. We did, however, observe an association between the INS–23HphI alleles, genotypes and C‐peptide secretion in all diabetic patients: A allele frequency was 86.2% in the C‐peptide‐negative group vs. 65.4% in the C‐peptide‐positive group (Pcorr. < 0.005); AA genotype was found to be 72.4% in the C‐peptide‐negative group vs. 42.6% in the C‐peptide‐positive groups (Pcorr. < 0.01). The HLA genotyping revealed a significantly higher frequency of HLA DRB1*03 allele in both T1DM and LADA groups when compared to healthy subjects: T1DM (25.7%) vs. control group (10.15%), odds ratio (OR) = 3.06, P < 0.05; LADA (27.6%) vs. control (10.15%), OR = 3.37, P < 0.01. The simultaneous presence of both HLA DRB1*04 and INS–23HphI AA genotype was detected in 37.5% of the T1DM group compared to only 9.2% of the healthy individuals group (OR = 5.9, Pcorr. < 0.007). We summarize that in the Central Bohemian population of the Czech Republic, the INS–23HphI A allele appears to be associated with a decrease in pancreatic beta cell secretory activity. HLA genotyping points to at least a partial difference in mechanism, which leads to T1DM and LADA development as well as a more diverse genetic predisposition in juvenile‐ and adult‐onset diabetes. The simultaneous effect of HLA and INS‐VNTR alleles/genotypes predispose individuals to an increased risk of diabetes development.
Accuracy of Nurses' Diagnoses of Psychosocial Responses
Authors: Lunney Margaret , Karlik Beverly A. , Kiss Margaret , Murphy Patricia
Published: February 2008

PURPOSE. To describe the accuracy of staff nurses' diagnoses or interpretations of the human responses of patients in hospital settings.

METHODS. The sample was 62 staff nurses in three hospitals who assessed and diagnosed the psychosocial problems of one to four patients. Two trained raters followed with assessment, diagnosis, and ratings of nurses' accuracy of 153 cases. A seven‐point interval scale was used to judge accuracy.

FINDINGS. The means of accuracy scores across nurses were significantly different (f = 1.66; p<.05; df = 2,59). A significant percentage of nurses' diagnoses were scored at the two highest levels of accuracy (45.2%), and 12.8% were scored at the three lowest levels of accuracy. According to the expert raters, a high percentage of patients (54.4%) were experiencing fear or anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS. More attention needs to be given to the accuracy of nurses' diagnoses of psychosocial responses.
Foreign Manufacturing Investment in China: The Role of Industrial Agglomeration and Industrial Linkages
Authors: He Canfei
Published: February 2008

This paper investigates the forces that determine the industrial distribution of foreign manufacturing investment. It highlights the importance of industrial agglomeration and industrial linkage in attracting foreign investment to manufacturing industries. Using panel data for two‐digit manufacturing industries in Beijing during the period of 1999‐2004, this study finds that geographically agglomerated industries with strong intra‐industrial linkages are indeed attractive to foreign investment. Previous foreign investment has led to the current industrial concentration of foreign investment. Investors also favor capital‐intensive and technology‐intensive industries, and they tend to be attracted to the most profitable and exporting industries, but avoid industries with high real labor costs and high entry barriers. Competitive local industries that possess comparative advantages are critical for attracting foreign investment. The existence of industrial clusters certainly enhances a city's attractiveness to foreign investment.
Cyclooxygenase‐2 Expression Induced by Photofrin Photodynamic Therapy Involves the p38 MAPK Pathway†
Authors: Luna Marian , Wong Sam , Ferrario Angela , Gomer Charles J.
Published: February 2008

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), using the porphyrin photosensitizer Photofrin (PH), is approved for the clinical treatment of solid tumors. In addition to the direct cytotoxic responses of PH–PDT‐mediated oxidative stress, this procedure also induces expression of angiogenic and prosurvival molecules including cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2). In vivo treatment efficacy is improved when PH‐PDT is combined with inhibitors of COX‐2. In the current study we evaluated the signaling pathways involved with PH–PDT‐mediated COX‐2 expression in a mouse fibrosarcoma cell line. COX‐2 promoter reporter constructs with mutated transcription elements documented that the nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) element, cyclic‐AMP response element 2 (CRE‐2), CCAAT/enhancer binding protein (C/EBP) element and activator binding protein‐1 (AP‐1) element were responsive to PH‐PDT. Transcription factor binding assays demonstrated that nuclear protein binding to NFκB, CRE‐2, c‐fos and c‐jun elements were elevated following PH‐PDT. Kinase phosphorylation upstream of COX‐2 expression was also examined following PH‐PDT. Stress‐activated protein kinase/c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (SAPK/JNK) and c‐Jun were phosphorylated following PH‐PDT but the SAPK/JNK inhibitor SP600125 failed to attenuate COX‐2 expression. In contrast, p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), which activates CRE‐2 binding, was phosphorylated following PH‐PDT and inhibitors of p38 MAPK, SB203580 and SB202190, decreased PH–PDT‐induced COX‐2 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK1/2) phosphorylation, which also increases CRE‐2 binding activity, was initially high in untreated cells, decreased immediately following PH‐PDT and then rapidly increased. MEK1/2 is immediately upstream of ERK1/2 and the MEK1 inhibitor PD98059 failed to attenuate COX‐2 expression while the MEK1/2 inhibitor U0126 induced a slight decrease in COX‐2 expression. The NFκB inhibitor SN50 failed to reduce COX‐2 expression. These results demonstrate that multiple protein kinase cascades can be activated by oxidative stress and that the p38 MAPK signaling pathway and CRE‐2 binding are involved in COX‐2 expression following PH‐PDT.
The Arg160Trp Allele of Melanocortin‐1 Receptor Gene Might Protect Against Vitiligo†
Authors: Széll Márta , Baltás Eszter , Bodai László , Bata‐Csörgő Zsuzsanna , Nagy Nikoletta , Dallos Attila , Pourfarzi Reza , Simics Enikő , Kondorosi Ildikó , Szalai Zsuzsanna , Tóth Gábor K. , Hunyadi János , Dobozy Attila , Kemény Lajos
Published: February 2008

Melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC1R) and agouti signaling protein (ASIP) play pivotal roles in the regulation of human pigmentation. We aimed to study whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the MC1R and ASIP genes contribute to the pathogenesis of the polygenic pigment skin disorder, vitiligo. The PCR‐amplified, full‐length MC1R gene was studied with sequence analysis, and the 3′ untranslated region (3′ UTR) SNP of ASIP was detected using restriction fragment length polymorphism. The allele frequency of the ASIP SNP did not show any difference between the skin type, hair color and eye color‐matched 97 vitiligo patients and the 59 healthy control individuals. As one of the MC1R polymorphisms showed significantly higher incidence among fair‐skinned individuals (Fitzpatrick I + II, n = 140) than among dark‐skinned individuals (Fitzpatrick III + IV, n = 90), both vitiligo patients and controls were divided into two groups and the frequency of the MC1R alleles was studied separately in fair‐skinned and dark‐skinned subgroups of diseased and healthy groups. C478T, one of the MC1R SNPs studied in 108 fair‐skinned vitiligo patients and in 70 fair‐skinned healthy control individuals, showed a significant difference (P = 0.0262, odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 3.6 [0.0046–0.1003]) in allele frequency between the two groups: the allele frequency was higher in the control group, suggesting protection against vitiligo. Computer prediction of antigenicity has revealed that the Arg160Trp amino acid change caused by this SNP results in a decrease in antigenicity of the affected peptide epitope.
Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetric Determination of 1,1-Dimethyl-3-phenyltriazene
Authors: Ignjatović Ljubiša M. , Barek Jiří , Zima Jiří , Stević Milica C.
Published: February 2008

The optimum conditions were found for the determination of 1,1-dimethyl-3-phenyltriazene in the concentration range from 1 × 10-4 to 1 × 10-7 mol l-1 by differential pulse voltammetry at a hanging mercury drop electrode. The sensitivity of the determination can be improved by preliminary adsorptive accumulation of the substance on the surface of the hanging mercury drop. Differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry can be used for the purpose in the concentration range from 1 × 10-6 to 1 × 10-9 mol l-1. The determination limit is 1 × 10-9 mol l-1 for a deposition time of 10 min, the relative standard deviation being 5% (n = 10) for a concentration of 2 × 10-9 mol l-1.
Synthesis and Characterization of Dialkyl Esters of 1,2,4,5-Tetrazine-3,6-dicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Frebort Štěpán , Almonasy Numan , Hrdina Radim , Lyčka Antonín , Lísa Miroslav , Holčapek Michal
Published: February 2008

Synthesis and characterization of a series of dialkyl esters of 1,2,4,5-tetrazine-3,6-dicarboxylic acid are reported. These compounds were prepared by a two-stage synthesis: re-esterification of dimethyl 1,4-dihydro-1,2,4,5-tetrazine-3,6-dicarboxylate in the presence of aluminium triethoxide and subsequent dehydrogenation of dialkyl 1,4-dihydro-1,2,4,5-tetrazine-3,6-dicarboxylates. The structures of the prepared compounds were confirmed by NMR and mass spectra.
A New Synthesis of Rizatriptan Based on Radical Cyclization
Authors: Rádl Stanislav , Klecán Ondřej , Klvaňa Robert , Havlíček Jaroslav
Published: February 2008

A new methodology useful for preparation of indole derivatives bearing a 2-(dialkylamino)-ethyl substituent at the 3-position has been developed. Application of this methodology to the synthesis of N,N-dimethyl-2-{5-[(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)methyl]-1H-indol-3-yl}ethan-1-amine (rizatriptan; 3) is described. The key reaction step is based on the radical cyclization of N-[4-(dimethylamino)but-2-yn-1-yl]-N-{2-iodo-4-[(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)methyl]phenyl}-acetamide (21), easily available by the Mannich reaction, and subsequent isomerization of the primarily formed methylidene derivative 22.
THE VARIABLE GENERALIZED CHAPLYGIN GAS MODEL WITH INTERACTION
Authors: WU YA BO , YANG XIU YI , HE JING , FU MING HUI
Published: February 2008

In this paper a variable generalized Chaplygin gas (VGCG) proposal for unification of dark matter and dark energy is considered, in which dark energy interacts with dark matter. The equation of state of the VGCG is given by p = -A0a-n/ρα, where a is the scale factor. By calculations some cosmological quantities such as density parameters of baryons, dark matter and dark energy as well as the deceleration parameter are all obtained. Furthermore, the transition from deceleration to acceleration is described and the interaction between dark energy and dark matter is considered in this model. We find the behavior of VGCG is similar to dust-like matter at early times and will be quintessence or phantom at late stage. In addition the evolution trajectory of the VGCG model in the statefinder parameter s-r plane is plotted and the discrimination between this scenario and the generalized Chaplygin gas (GCG) model is illustrated.
INDUCING CHARGES AND CURRENTS FROM EXTRA DIMENSIONS
Authors: CRUZ M. A. S. , DAHIA F. , ROMERO C.
Published: February 2008

In a particular variant of Kaluza–Klein theory, the so-called induced-matter theory (IMT), it is shown that any configuration of matter may be geometrically induced from a five-dimensional vacuum space. By using a similar approach we show that any distribution of charges and currents may also be induced from a five-dimensional space. Although in the case of IMT the geometry is Riemannian and the fundamental equations are the five-dimensional Einstein equations in vacuum, here we consider a Minkowskian geometry and five-dimensional Maxwell equations in vacuum.
CONSTRUCTION OF NONCOMMUTATIVE INSTANTONS IN 4k DIMENSIONS
Authors: BRÖDEL JOHANNES , IVANOVA TATIANA A. , LECHTENFELD OLAF
Published: February 2008

We consider generalized self-duality equations for U (2r) Yang–Mills theory on ℝ4k with quaternionic structure and self-dual Moyal deformation. We employ the extended ADHM method in 4k dimensions to construct new noncommutative generalizations of the 't Hooft as well as of the BPST instantons. It is shown that in the commutative limit the BPST-type configurations coincide with the standard instantons on ℍPk written in local coordinates.
Alpine burial and heterogeneous exhumation of Variscan crust in the West Carpathians: insight from thermodynamic and argon diffusion modelling
Authors: JEřáBek P. , FARYAD W.S. , SCHULMANN K. , LEXA O. , TAJčMANOVá L.
Published: February 2008

Phase equilibrium modelling of metagranitoids and metapelites in the MnO–Na
2
O–CaO–K
2
O–FeO–MgO–Al
2
O
3
–SiO
2
–H
2
O system was used to characterize Variscan and Alpine metamorphism in the crystalline basement of the Vepor Unit, West Carpathians. The calculated
P
–
T
conditions range between 570–670 °C and 6–8.5 kbar for the Variscan and 430–600 °C and 5–11 kbar for the Alpine event. These two events show contrasting metamorphic field gradients and
P
–
T
evolutions, indicating 22–27 °C km
−1
during the retrograde Variscan metamorphism and 15–18 °C km
−1
during the prograde Alpine metamorphism. The prograde Alpine metamorphism is associated with the Early Cretaceous overthrusting of the southern Gemer Unit, which resulted in apparently contemporaneous burial and horizontal ductile spreading of the underlying Vepor basement. The argon diffusion modelling was used to interpret the existing Variscan, Alpine and mixed
40
Ar/
39
Ar cooling ages, and to constrain the
T
–
t
evolution and Alpine thermal overprint. Constructed Alpine metamorphic isograds and isotherms show horizontal
P
–
T
gradients resulting from heterogeneous exhumation of the deeper parts of the Vepor basement along two narrow belts during later folding. Here the structurally deeper metapelites form large-scale anticlinal cusp-like structures that separate structurally higher metagranitoids.
Coincident swath acoustic backscatter and bathymetry for the interpretation of shallow-water sediment composition and processes
Authors: GLYNN BARBARA , BROWN COLIN , ROONEY SHANE
Published: February 2008

Two surveys from the west of Ireland demonstrate how the combination of high-resolution, geo-referenced, spatially coincident, swath acoustic bathymetric and backscatter data is effective for understanding underwater geological processes and assisting the design of environmental monitoring programmes. One case study corroborates terrestrial observations of Quaternary glacial cycles around Clew Bay by identifying sea-bed morphology that is consistent with a glacial advance from east to west, followed by deglaciation and a subsequent readvance to the NW during the Last Glacial Maximum. The bathymetric data identify a palaeo-coastline at water depths of
c
. 30 m below present sea level and the underwater extension of an onshore end-moraine. The backscatter data, corroborated by grab sampling, identify mixed sediment outwash associated with the ice limit, as well as sea-bed depressions caused by subglacial erosion. The other case study in Lough Corrib, an inland lake, identifies areas of mud from backscatter data. Swath bathymetry, sub-bottom profiling and grab samples suggest that the mud accumulates in bedrock depressions and is the preferred location of several elements related to eutrophication. The combination of spatially coincident swath bathymetry and backscatter data is more effective for geological interpretations than backscatter data from conventional side-scan sonar.
Integration of core, logging and drilling data in modern reefal carbonates to improve core location and recovery estimates (IODP Expedition 310)
Authors: Inwood J. , Brewer T. , Braaksma H. , Pezard P.
Published: February 2008

Palaeoclimate and sea-level studies commonly rely on interpretations based on depth. The location and quantity of core recovered during a drilling expedition has direct implications for subsequent applications of core measurements. A key objective of Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP) Expedition 310 is to establish the course of postglacial sea-level rise for Tahiti in the South Pacific, for which assigning the correct depth to recovered core is fundamental. By convention, core is placed at the top of the core barrel run from which it was collected. Unless core recovery is 100%, this results in depth errors that are inversely proportional to the recovery. The difficulties of locating core are compounded for the Tahiti boreholes, where primary cavities in the carbonate reef successions are frequently present. Only through the integration of core with continuous geophysical measurements of the borehole can accurate depth positioning be achieved. High-resolution optical and acoustic images of the borehole wall allow effective visual correlation of the core and logging datasets. The final integrated depths form the underlying framework for all subsequent scientific analyses of recovered core employing evaluations that rely on depth. Furthermore, the integration process allows true core recoveries to be accurately estimated.
Defining the Himalayan Main Central Thrust in Nepal
Authors: SEARLE MICHAEL P. , LAW RICHARD D. , GODIN LAURENT , LARSON KYLE P. , STREULE MICHAEL J. , COTTLE JOHN M. , JESSUP MICAH J.
Published: February 2008

An inverted metamorphic field gradient associated with a crustal-scale south-vergent thrust fault, the Main Central Thrust, has been recognized along the Himalaya for over 100 years. A major problem in Himalayan structural geology is that recent workers have mapped the Main Central Thrust within the Greater Himalayan Sequence high-grade metamorphic sequence along several different structural levels. Some workers map the Main Central Thrust as coinciding with a lithological contact, others as coincident with the kyanite isograd, up to 1–3 km structurally up-section into the Tertiary metamorphic sequence, without supporting structural data. Some workers recognize a Main Central Thrust zone of high ductile strain up to 2–3 km thick, bounded by an upper thrust, MCT-2 (= Vaikrita thrust), and a lower thrust, MCT-1 (= Munsiari thrust). Some workers define an ‘upper Lesser Himalaya’ thrust sheet that shows similar
P
–
T
conditions to the Greater Himalayan Sequence. Others define the Main Central Thrust either on isotopic (Nd, Sr) differences, differences in detrital zircon ages, or as being coincident with a zone of young (<5 Ma) Th–Pb monazite ages. Very few papers incorporate any structural data in justifying the position of the Main Central Thrust. These studies, combined with recent quantitative strain analyses from the Everest and Annapurna Greater Himalayan Sequence, show that a wide region of high strain characterizes most of the Greater Himalayan Sequence with a concentration along the bounding margins of the South Tibetan Detachment along the top, and the Main Central Thrust along the base. We suggest that the Main Central Thrust has to be defined and mapped on strain criteria, not on stratigraphic, lithological, isotopic or geochronological criteria. The most logical place to map the Main Central Thrust is along the high-strain zone that commonly occurs along the base of the ductile shear zone and inverted metamorphic sequence. Above that horizon, all rocks show some degree of Tertiary Himalayan metamorphism, and most of the Greater Himalayan Sequence metamorphic or migmatitic rocks show some degree of pure shear and simple shear ductile strain that occurs throughout the mid-crustal Greater Himalayan Sequence channel. The Main Central Thrust evolved both in time (early–middle Miocene) and space from a deep-level ductile shear zone to a shallow brittle thrust fault.
Transtensional origin of the NE–SW Simitli basin along the Strouma (Strymon) Lineament, SW Bulgaria
Authors: Tranos M.D. , Kachev V.N. , Mountrakis D.M.
Published: February 2008

Several depocentres have developed along the NNW–SSE-striking Strouma (Strymon) Lineament since the Miocene, forming the Strouma/Strymon graben system. Some of these basins, including the Dzherman and Simitli, strike at high angles to the lineament. The rhomboid-shaped Simitli basin is limited in the south by the NE–SW-striking, seismically active Kroupnik fault and contains terrestrial clastic sediments, which have been deposited since the Sarmatian. Its formation is attributed to ‘wrench-dominated transtension’ (D
B
event) which activated the basin's NE–SW-striking boundary faults as left-lateral strike-slip structures during the Early–Middle Miocene. This deformation was associated with NNE–SSW contraction and WNW–ESE extension and succeeded the NNE–SSW contraction caused by ‘pure shear-dominated transpression’ (D
A
event), which governed the region in Late Oligocene–Early Miocene times. During the Middle–Late Miocene, the D
B
event was followed by WNW–ESE ‘pure shear-dominated extension’ (D
1
event), which caused further widening of the basin. The transtensional origin of the Simitli basin is explained by lateral extrusion of the crustal mass squeezed between the Apulian–Adriatic microplate and the European foreland towards the North Aegean Sea. The subduction retreat of the Hellenic orogen possibly enhanced this lateral extrusion, and from the Late Miocene onwards the NE–SW-oriented back-arc extension balanced the continuing retreat.
New views on the structure and rheology of the lithosphere
Authors: JACKSON JAMES , McKENZIE DAN , PRIESTLEY KEITH , EMMERSON BRIAN
Published: February 2008

Over the last 10 years a series of developments have led to a new understanding of what controls the variations in lithosphere strength, structure and evolution that produce dramatic contrasts between the geological histories of oceans, ancient shields and young orogenic belts. Those developments involve a wide range of observations from a great diversity of geological, geophysical and geochemical disciplines that, none the less, provide a mutually consistent and coherent overall picture. This paper summarizes, in one place, the essential stages in the evolution of the relevant ideas and observations that have led to this situation.
Fabric anisotropy controls faulting in the continental crust
Authors: Butler R.W.H. , Bond C.E. , Shipton Z.K. , Jones R.R. , Casey M.
Published: February 2008

The influence of pre-existing structural anisotropy on faulting in the continents is best tested in recently exhumed crust (e.g. Nanga Parbat Massif, NW Himalayas), where earlier brittle structures have been annealed. The kinematics of young faults, formed in a single, continuing tectonic regime (NNW compression), are distinctly different, depending upon the orientation of the early ductile foliations around them. Faulting is subparallel and statistically simple where foliation is moderately dipping but highly complex where foliation is steeply dipping. Thus structural anisotropy does control faulting in the continental crust, a result with important implications for seismogenesis, fluid flow and basin evolution.
Mice lacking the transient receptor vanilloid potential 1 channel display normal thirst responses and central Fos activation to hypernatremia
Authors: Taylor A. Caitlynn , McCarthy John J. , Stocker Sean D.
Published: February 2008

Neurons of the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (OVLT) are necessary for thirst and vasopressin secretion during hypersmolality in rodents. Recent evidence suggests the osmosensitivity of these neurons is mediated by a gene product encoding the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1) channel. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether mice lacking the TRPV1 channel had blunted thirst responses and central Fos activation to acute and chronic hyperosmotic stimuli. Surprisingly, TRPV1−/− vs. wild-type mice ingested similar amounts of water after injection (0.5 ml sc) of 0.5 M NaCl and 1.0 M NaCl. Chronic increases in plasma osmolality produced by overnight water deprivation or sole access to a 2% NaCl solution for 48 h produced similar increases in water intake between wild-type and TRPV1−/− mice. There were no differences in cumulative water intakes in response to hypovolemia or isoproterenol. In addition, the number of Fos-positive cells along the lamina terminalis, including the OVLT, as well as the supraoptic nucleus and hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, was similar between wild-type and TRPV1−/− mice after both acute and chronic osmotic stimulation. These findings indicate that TRPV1 channels are not necessary for osmotically driven thirst or central Fos activation, and thereby suggest that TRPV1 channels are not the primary ion channels that permit the brain to detect changes in plasma sodium concentration or osmolality.
Neuroanatomical Correlates of Motor Acquisition and Motor Transfer
Authors: Seidler R. D. , Noll D. C.
Published: February 2008

The acquisition of new motor skills is dependent on task practice. In the case of motor transfer, learning can be facilitated by prior practice of a similar skill. Although a multitude of studies have investigated the brain regions contributing to skill acquisition, the neural bases associated with the savings seen at transfer have yet to be determined. In the current study, we used functional MRI to examine how brain activation differs during acquisition and transfer of a visuomotor adaptation task. Two groups of participants adapted manual aiming movements to three different rotations of the feedback display in a sequential fashion, with a return to baseline display conditions between each rotation. Subjects showed a savings in the rate of adaptation when they had prior adaptive experiences (i.e., positive transfer of learning). This savings was associated with a reduction in activity of brain regions typically recruited early in the adaptation process, including the right inferior frontal gyrus, primary motor cortex, inferior temporal gyrus, and the cerebellum (medial HIII). Moreover, although these regions exhibit activation that is correlated across subjects with the rate of acquisition, the degree of savings at transfer was correlated with activity in the right cingulate gyrus, left superior parietal lobule, right inferior parietal lobule, left middle occipital gyrus, and bilaterally in the cerebellum (HV/VI). The cerebellar activation was in the regions surrounding the posterior superior fissure, which is thought to be the site of storage for acquired internal models. Thus we found that motor transfer is associated with brain activation that typically characterizes late learning and storage. Transfer seems to involve retrieval of a previously formed motor memory, allowing the learner to move more quickly through the early stage of learning.
The mTOR Inhibitor Everolimus Attenuates the Time Course of Chronic Anti-Thy1 Nephritis in the Rat
Authors: Wittmann Sandra , Daniel Christoph , Braun Andrea , Vogelbacher Regina , Shimizu Fuijo , Kawachi Hiroshi , Hugo Christian
Published: February 2008

Background: The antiproliferative immunosuppressant everolimus adversely affects the acute reversible anti-Thy1 nephritis model. We hypothesized that everolimus treatment started after the acute proliferative phase could even be beneficial in the chronic anti-Thy1 nephritis model in the rat. Methods: Chronic anti-Thy1 nephritis was induced by injection of the monoclonal antibody 1-22-3 in 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats 7 days after uninephrectomy. Two weeks after disease induction, rats were randomly treated with either everolimus or vehicle for 14 weeks. Changes in progression of renal disease were investigated by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR 16 weeks after disease induction. Results: During chronic anti-Thy1 nephritis, the formation of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis lesions, the degree of interstitial fibrosis as well as the increase in proteinuria over 14 weeks was ameliorated by everolimus treatment. Increased glomerular hypertrophy observed in the vehicle-treated rats was completely prevented in the everolimus-treated nephritic rats. Increased glomerular fibronectin mRNA and protein as well as the renal influx of monocytes/macrophages was significantly reduced in the everolimus group. Everolimus reduced the pro-angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and VEGF mRNA in glomeruli, while the transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway was not affected. Conclusion: ‘Late’ start of everolimus treatment demonstrates beneficial effects on the time course of chronic anti-Thy1 nephritis.
Tree Pollen and Hospitalization for Asthma in Urban Canada
Authors: Dales Robert E. , Cakmak Sabit , Judek Stan , Coates Frances
Published: February 2008

Background: Allergy to tree pollen is common and aeroallergens have been associated with severe asthma exacerbations in the community setting. To determine the impact of different trees on asthma, we tested the association between daily hospitalizations for asthma and daily concentrations of different tree pollens in 10 large Canadian cities. Methods: Daily time-series analyses were employed to remove unwanted temporal trends. For each family or genus, results were adjusted for day of the week, temperature, barometric pressure and relative humidity. Results were expressed as the percentage increase in asthma hospitalizations related to an increase in tree pollen concentration equivalent in magnitude to its interquartile range. Results: For an interquartile increase in daily tree pollen concentration, percent increases in daily hospitalization for asthma were: 2.63% (95% CI 1.19–4.07) for Ulmus (elm), 2.45% (1.12–3.78) for the group containing Pinaceae (pine, fir, spruce), Tsuga (hemlock) and Larix (larch, tamarack); 2.32% (0.93–3.71) for the group containing Quercus (oak) and Castanea (chestnut), and 2.16% (0.70–3.62) for Acer (boxelder and maple). Statistically significant (p < 0.05) but small (<2%) effects were observed for Fraxinus (ash), Populus (aspen, poplar), Alnus (alder), Betula (birch) and Corylus (hazelnut). Conclusions: Several common tree pollens are an important cause of acute exacerbations of asthma severe enough to require hospitalization.
Complement Split Products C3a and C4a Are Early Markers of Acute Lyme Disease in Tick Bite Patients in the United States
Authors: Shoemaker Ritchie C. , Giclas Patricia C. , Crowder Chris , House Dennis , Glovsky M. Michael
Published: February 2008

Background: Current laboratory markers do not readily detect acute Lyme disease. We assessed the utility of complement and its split products as markers of Lyme disease in patients shortly after a tick bite. Methods: Thirty-one consecutive acute Lyme disease patients, 14 with and 17 without erythema migrans (EM) skin rash, seen by a physician within 96 h of a tick bite were matched with 24 consecutive tick bite patients without Lyme disease symptoms and 46 healthy control subjects. Complement and split products measured included factor B, Bb, C4, C3c, C3ades Arg, C4ades Arg, C1q- and C3d-containing immune complexes, and C2. Results: C2, C4, C3 and factor B levels were within normal ranges in all groups. C3a and C4a levels were significantly higher in acute Lyme disease patients than in tick bite and healthy control groups (both p < 0.001). All acute Lyme disease patients, regardless of EM, had elevated levels of C3a or C4a. Few tick bite controls had elevated levels of C3a (2/20) or C4a (5/24) and only 1 of the healthy control subjects had elevated C3a (0/46) or C4a (1/32). Conclusions: These findings suggest that C3a and C4a may be useful markers of Lyme disease in patients seen shortly after tick bite, even in those without EM.
Peptidoglycan from Staphylococcus aureus Induces IL-4 Production from Murine Spleen Cells via an IL-18-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Matsui Katsuhiko , Wirotesangthong Mali , Nishikawa Akemi
Published: February 2008

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with immunopathologic features that vary depending on the duration of the lesion. Skin lesions of AD patients show an increased number of Th2 cells in the dermis and superficial Staphylococcus aureus colonization. The purpose of this study was to predict the effects of peptido- glycan (PEG) from S. aureus on the induction of interleukin (IL)-4 production in AD patients. Methods: PEG was applied to barrier-disrupted abdominal mouse skin every 5 days. Twenty days later, IL-4 production in the spleen was investigated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Spleen cells from normal mice were also treated in vitro with PEG and processed for IL-4 production by RT-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: IL-4 production was significantly increased in the spleen of PEG-treated mice compared with that of PBS-applied mice. In addition, in vitro experiments demonstrated that PEG was able to induce IL-4 production in murine spleen cells. Furthermore, IL-4 production was associated with IL-18 production, but not with IL-2 production from PEG-stimulated spleen cells, and IL-4 mRNA was expressed in CD4+ lymphocytes in the spleen cells. In in vivo experiments, percutaneous treatment with PEG induced mRNA expression not only for IL-4 but also for IL-18 in the spleen. Conclusion: These results suggest that PEG may influence the induction of a Th2-dominant cytokine response in AD patients through IL-4 production from CD4+ T cells stimulated with PEG-induced IL-18.