bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
University teaching and exploration geophysics
Authors: Emerson D.W.
Published: November 2007

Many views exist as to the function of a university. In the writer's opinion a university exists to advance and disseminate pure and applied knowledge; to maintain and refine standards of scholarship; to impart to students a capacity for critical analysis and to preserve intellectual integrity. Within the broad framework of university ideals a necessary (but not sufficient) function of a university is to provide suitable graduates for industry, commerce and the public service.
Erratum to: Kenneth Baillieu Myer 1921 - 1992
Authors: Denton Derek
Published: November 2007

Kenneth Baillieu Myer was elected to the Fellowship of the Australian Academy in April 1992, under the provision for special election of people who are not scientists but have rendered conspicuous service to the cause of science. Myer was a significant figure in Australian history by virtue of his contribution to the origins or early development of major national institutions, most notably the Howard Florey Laboratories of Experimental Physiology and Medicine, the School of Oriental Studies at the University of Melbourne, the Victorian Arts Centre and the National Library of Australia. He successfully fostered new research in organizations such as the Division of Plant Industry of the CSIRO and helped build the Oriental Collection of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
The 1945 - 1955 Queensland Artesian Fluoride Experience: A Unique Phenomenon within the Australian Wool Industry
Authors: Akers Harry F. , Porter Suzette A. T.
Published: November 2007

Inquiries into the diminishing supply of artesian water within the Queensland aspect of the Great Artesian Basin began in 1939. These investigations produced a Queensland phenomenon without Australian precedent in terms of rationale, geographical diversity, and commitment of resources. In some regions, exposure of herds to fluoride emerged as an urgent issue because fluoride was perceived as an invasive, invisible, and odourless 'contaminant' in artesian water. This paper discusses the scientific background to, and management of, concerns over the consumption by stock of artesian water with a high concentration of natural bioavailable fluoride. The Queensland Department of Agriculture and Stock managed the problem by scientific investigation, methodical field study, and the application of research findings to animal husbandry. The practical solutions arrived at involved rotation of stock on an age-related basis to and from certain bore supplies, fencing young sheep away from the artesian supply, fencing young sheep near the bore-head, and limiting the use of supplements.
Multiple-state reactions between the epidermal growth factor receptor and Grb2 as observed by using single-molecule analysis
Authors: Morimatsu Miki , Takagi Hiroaki , Ota Kosuke G. , Iwamoto Ryo , Yanagida Toshio , Sako Yasushi
Published: November 2007

Phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic tyrosine residues of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) upon binding of EGF induces recognition of various intracellular signaling molecules, including Grb2. Here, the reaction kinetics between EGFR and Grb2 was analyzed by visualizing single molecules of Grb2 conjugated to the fluorophore Cy3 (Cy3–Grb2). The plasma membrane fraction was purified from human epithelial carcinoma A431 cells after stimulation with EGF and attached to coverslips. Unitary events of association and dissociation of Cy3–Grb2 on the EGFR in the membrane fraction were observed at different concentrations of Grb2 (0.1–100 nM). The dissociation kinetics could be explained by using a multiple-exponential function with a major (>90%) dissociation rate of 8 s
−1
and a few minor components, suggesting the presence of multiple bound states. In contrast, the association kinetics could be described by a stretched exponential function, suggesting the presence of multiple reaction channels from many unbound substates. Transitions between the unbound substates were also suggested. Unexpectedly, the rate of association was not proportional to the Grb2 concentration: an increase in Cy3–Grb2 concentration by a factor of 10 induced an increase in the reaction frequency approximately by a factor of three. This effect can compensate for fluctuation of the signal transduction from EGFR to Grb2 caused by variations in the expression level of Grb2 in living cells.
Transport direction determines the kinetics of substrate transport by the glutamate transporter EAAC1
Authors: Zhang Zhou , Tao Zhen , Gameiro Armanda , Barcelona Stephanie , Braams Simona , Rauen Thomas , Grewer Christof
Published: November 2007

Glutamate transport by the excitatory amino acid carrier EAAC1 is known to be reversible. Thus, glutamate can either be taken up into cells, or it can be released from cells through reverse transport, depending on the electrochemical gradient of the co- and countertransported ions. However, it is unknown how fast and by which reverse transport mechanism glutamate can be released from cells. Here, we determined the steady- and pre-steady-state kinetics of reverse glutamate transport with submillisecond time resolution. First, our results suggest that glutamate and Na
+
dissociate from their cytoplasmic binding sites sequentially, with glutamate dissociating first, followed by the three cotransported Na
+
ions. Second, the kinetics of glutamate transport depend strongly on transport direction, with reverse transport being faster but less voltage-dependent than forward transport. Third, electrogenicity is distributed over several reverse transport steps, including intracellular Na
+
binding, reverse translocation, and reverse relocation of the K
+
-bound EAAC1. We propose a kinetic model, which is based on a “first-in-first-out” mechanism, suggesting that glutamate association, with its extracellular binding site as well as dissociation from its intracellular binding site, precedes association and dissociation of at least one Na
+
ion. Our model can be used to predict rates of glutamate release from neurons under physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
Memory in receptor–ligand-mediated cell adhesion
Authors: Zarnitsyna Veronika I. , Huang Jun , Zhang Fang , Chien Yuan-Hung , Leckband Deborah , Zhu Cheng
Published: November 2007

Single-molecule biomechanical measurements, such as the force to unfold a protein domain or the lifetime of a receptor–ligand bond, are inherently stochastic, thereby requiring a large number of data for statistical analysis. Sequentially repeated tests are generally used to obtain a data ensemble, implicitly assuming that the test sequence consists of independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) random variables, i.e., a Bernoulli sequence. We tested this assumption by using data from the micropipette adhesion frequency assay that generates sequences of two random outcomes: adhesion and no adhesion. Analysis of distributions of consecutive adhesion events revealed violation of the i.i.d. assumption, depending on the receptor–ligand systems studied. These include Markov sequences with positive (T cell receptor interacting with antigen peptide bound to a major histocompatibility complex) or negative (homotypic interaction between C-cadherins) feedbacks, where adhesion probability in the next test was increased or decreased, respectively, by adhesion in the immediate past test. These molecular interactions mediate cell adhesion and cell signaling. The ability to “remember” the previous adhesion event may represent a mechanism by which the cell regulates adhesion and signaling.
Regulation of tradeoffs between plant defenses against pathogens with different lifestyles
Authors: Spoel Steven H. , Johnson Jessica S. , Dong Xinnian
Published: November 2007

Plants activate distinct defense responses depending on the lifestyle of the attacker encountered. In these responses, salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) play important signaling roles. SA induces defense against biotrophic pathogens that feed and reproduce on live host cells, whereas JA activates defense against necrotrophic pathogens that kill host cells for nutrition and reproduction. Cross-talk between these defense signaling pathways has been shown to optimize the response against a single attacker. However, its role in defense against multiple pathogens with distinct lifestyles is unknown. Here we show that infection with biotrophic
Pseudomonas syringae
, which induces SA-mediated defense, rendered plants more susceptible to the necrotrophic pathogen
Alternaria brassicicola
by suppression of the JA signaling pathway. This process was partly dependent on the cross-talk modulator NPR1. Surprisingly, this tradeoff was restricted to tissues adjacent to the site of initial infection;
A. brassicicola
infection in systemic tissue was not affected. Even more surprisingly, tradeoff occurred only with the virulent
Pseudomonas
strain. Avirulent strains that induced programmed cell death (PCD), an effective plant-resistance mechanism against biotrophs, did not cause suppression of JA-dependent defense. This result might be advantageous to the plant by preventing necrotrophic pathogen growth in tissues undergoing PCD. Our findings show that plants tightly control cross-talk between SA- and JA-dependent defenses in a previously unrecognized spatial and pathogen type-specific fashion. This process allows them to prevent unfavorable signal interactions and maximize their ability to concomitantly fend off multiple pathogens.
Danger-free autoimmune disease in Aire-deficient mice
Authors: Gray Daniel H. D. , Gavanescu Irina , Benoist Christophe , Mathis Diane
Published: November 2007

The danger theory of immune tolerance asserts that environmental factors hold primacy over lymphocyte autoreactivity in initiating autoimmune disease. We sought to test this contention using the Aire-deficient mouse model of the human disease, autoimmune polyendocrinopathy–candidiasis–ectodermal dystrophy, a multiorgan autoimmune disorder rooted in a lesion in thymic tolerance. Compound screens stimulating a broad range of innate immune system pathways failed to show any modulation of disease characteristics inAire−/−mice on either the C57BL/6 or NOD genetic backgrounds. Furthermore, deficiency in the Toll-like receptor adaptor Myd88 increased the lifespan of NOD.aire−/−mice but did not prevent the initiation of autoimmunity. Finally, germ-free NOD.aire−/−mice exhibited autoimmunity in all organs normally targeted in this model, indicating that microbial conditioning is not required for activation of autoreactive T cells relevant to this disease. Together, these data suggest that the stochastic genesis of dangerous T cell clones can initiate autoimmune disease without the need for environmental stimulation, underlining the importance of Aire-dependent thymic deletion.
Phosphoinositide 3–kinase γ participates in T cell receptor–induced T cell activation
Authors: Alcázar Isabela , Marqués Miriam , Kumar Amit , Hirsch Emilio , Wymann Matthias , Carrera Ana C. , Barber Domingo F.
Published: November 2007

Class I phosphoinositide 3–kinases (PI3Ks) constitute a family of enzymes that generates 3-phosphorylated polyphosphoinositides at the cell membrane after stimulation of protein tyrosine (Tyr) kinase–associated receptors or G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs). The class I PI3Ks are divided into two types: class IA p85/p110 heterodimers, which are activated by Tyr kinases, and the class IB p110γ isoform, which is activated by GPCR. Although the T cell receptor (TCR) is a protein Tyr kinase–associated receptor, p110γ deletion affects TCR-induced T cell stimulation. We examined whether the TCR activates p110γ, as well as the consequences of interfering with p110γ expression or function for T cell activation. We found that after TCR ligation, p110γ interacts with Gαq/11, lymphocyte-specific Tyr kinase, and ζ-associated protein. TCR stimulation activates p110γ, which affects 3-phosphorylated polyphosphoinositide levels at the immunological synapse. We show that TCR-stimulated p110γ controls RAS-related C3 botulinum substrate 1 activity, F-actin polarization, and the interaction between T cells and antigen-presenting cells, illustrating a crucial role for p110γ in TCR-induced T cell activation.
BCL11B is required for positive selection and survival of double-positive thymocytes
Authors: Albu Diana I. , Feng Dongyun , Bhattacharya Debarati , Jenkins Nancy A. , Copeland Neal G. , Liu Pentao , Avram Dorina
Published: November 2007

Transcriptional control of gene expression in double-positive (DP) thymocytes remains poorly understood. We show that the transcription factor BCL11B plays a critical role in DP thymocytes by controlling positive selection of both CD4 and CD8 lineages. BCL11B-deficient DP thymocytes rearrange T cell receptor (TCR) α; however, they display impaired proximal TCR signaling and attenuated extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation and calcium flux, which are all required for initiation of positive selection. Further, provision of transgenic TCRs did not improve positive selection of BCL11B-deficient DP thymocytes. BCL11B-deficient DP thymocytes have altered expression of genes with a role in positive selection, TCR signaling, and other signaling pathways intersecting the TCR, which may account for the defect. BCL11B-deficient DP thymocytes also presented increased susceptibility to spontaneous apoptosis associated with high levels of cleaved caspase-3 and an altered balance of proapoptotic/prosurvival factors. This latter susceptibility was manifested even in the absence of TCR signaling and was only partially rescued by provision of the BCL2 transgene, indicating that control of DP thymocyte survival by BCL11B is nonredundant and, at least in part, independent of BCL2 prosurvival factors.
AID-deficient Bcl-xL transgenic mice develop delayed atypical plasma cell tumors with unusual Ig/Myc chromosomal rearrangements
Authors: Kovalchuk Alexander L. , duBois Wendy , Mushinski Elizabeth , McNeil Nicole E. , Hirt Carsten , Qi Chen-Feng , Li Zhaoyang , Janz Siegfried , Honjo Tasuku , Muramatsu Masamichi , Ried Thomas , Behrens Timothy , Potter Michael
Published: November 2007

Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) is required for immunoglobulin (Ig) class switch recombination and somatic hypermutation, and has also been implicated in translocations between Ig switch regions and c-Myc in plasma cell tumors in mice. We asked if AID is required for accelerated tumor development in pristane-treated Bcl-xL transgenic BALB/c mice deficient in AID (pBxAicda−/−). pBxAicda−/− mice developed tumors with a lower frequency (24 vs. 62%) and a longer mean latency (108 vs. 36 d) than AID-sufficient mice. The tumors appeared in oil granuloma tissue and did not form ascites. By interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization, six out of nine pBxAicda−/− primary tumors had T(12;15) and one had T(6;15) chromosomal translocations. Two tumors were transplantable and established as stable cell lines. Molecular and cytogenetic analyses showed that one had an unusual unbalanced T(12;15) translocation, with IgH Cμ and Pvt-1 oriented head to tail at the breakpoint, resulting in an elevated expression of c-Myc. In contrast, the second was T(12;15) negative, but had an elevated N-Myc expression caused by a paracentric inversion of chromosome 12. Thus, novel mechanisms juxtapose Ig and Myc-family genes in AID-deficient plasma cell tumors.
Topics in special functions. II
Authors: Anderson G. , Vamanamurthy M. , Vuorinen M.
Published: November 2007

In geometric function theory, conformally invariant extremal problems often have expressions in terms of special functions. Such problems occur, for instance, in the study of change of euclidean and noneuclidean distances under quasiconformal mappings. This fact has led to many new results on special functions. Our goal is to provide a survey of such results.
Anti‐Inflammatory and Immune‐Regulatory Effects of Subcutaneous Perillae fructus Extract Injections on OVA‐Induced Asthma in Mice
Authors: Yim Yun-Kyoung , Lee Hyun , Hong Kwon-Eui , Kim Young-Il , Ko Seung-Kyoung , Kim Jung-Eun , Lee Seung-Yong , Park Kwang-Suk
Published: November 2007

Perillae fructus (perilla seed) is a traditional medicinal herb used to treat bronchial asthma in Oriental medical clinics. ST36 is one of the most widely used acupuncture points, particularly for immune system regulation. Injection of an herbal extract into an acupuncture point (herbal acupuncture) is a therapeutic technique combining both acupuncture and herbal treatment. Perillae fructus extract was injected subcutaneously (Perillae fructus herbal acupuncture; PF‐HA) at acupoint ST36 of OVA‐induced asthmatic mice. The lung weight, bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) cell count, the number of CCR3+, CD11b+, CD4+ and CD3e+/CD69+ cells in the lung, and the level of IgE, IL‐4, IL‐5 and IL‐13 in BALF and serum were then measured. RT‐PCR was used to measure the mRNA expression of IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13 and TNF‐α in the lung. Lung sections were analyzed histologically. PF‐HA significantly reduced lung weight, the number of inflammatory cells in the lung and BALF, the levels of IgE and Th2 cytokines in BALF and serum, mRNA expression of Th2 cytokines in the lung, and pathological changes in lung tissue. Our results suggest that PF‐HA may have an anti‐inflammatory and immune‐regulatory effect on bronchial allergic asthma by restoring the Th1/Th2 imbalance in the immune system and suppressing eosinophilic inflammation in airways.
The impact of treatment on 3 years' outcome for heroin dependence: findings from the Australian Treatment Outcome Study (ATOS)
Authors: Teesson Maree , Mills Katherine , Ross Joanne , Darke Shane , Williamson Anna , Havard Alys
Published: November 2007

Aim To examine the impact of treatment for heroin dependence on drug use, injection‐related risk‐taking, health problems, criminality and general physical and mental health over 3 years among heroin‐dependent Australians.

Design Longitudinal prospective cohort study.

Participants A total of 615 heroin users enrolled in the Australian Treatment Outcome Study; 94.5% of the sample completed at least one follow‐up interview over 36‐month follow‐up.

Findings The proportion who reported using heroin in the preceding month continued to decrease significantly from baseline to 24‐month follow‐up (99% versus 35%), with this rate remaining stable to 36‐month follow‐up. The reduction in heroin use was accompanied by reductions in other drug use. There were also substantial reductions in risk‐taking, crime, injection‐related health problems and improvements in general physical and mental health. Positive outcomes were associated with more time in maintenance therapies and residential rehabilitation and fewer treatment episodes. Time spent in detoxification was not associated with positive outcomes. Major depression was also associated consistently with poorer outcome.

Conclusions At 3 years, there were impressive reductions in drug use, criminality, psychopathology and injection‐related health problems following treatment exposure.
Alcohol, nightlife and violence: the relative contributions of drinking before and during nights out to negative health and criminal justice outcomes
Authors: Hughes Karen , Anderson Zara , Morleo Michela , Bellis Mark A.
Published: November 2007

Aims  To explore differences in alcohol consumption and negative nightlife experiences between young people who drink prior to attending city nightlife venues and those who do not drink until reaching bars and nightclubs.

Design, setting and participants  A cross‐sectional survey of 380 young people (aged 18–35 years) in bars and nightclubs in a large city centre in the North‐west of England.

Measurements  An anonymous questionnaire explored participants' basic demographics; frequency of utilizing nightlife; quantities of alcohol consumed prior to and during a typical night out in the city; and negative experiences in the city's nightlife in the previous year [fighting, being verbally abused, being sexually molested (e.g. groped) and being too drunk to walk].

Findings  Participants who reported drinking prior to attending nightlife (e.g. at their own or a friend's home) reported significantly higher total alcohol consumption over a night out than those not drinking until reaching bars and nightclubs. Over a quarter (26.5%) of female and 15.4% of male alcohol consumption over a night out occurred prior to attending nightlife. Individuals who drink before going out were over four times more likely to report drinking >20 units on a usual night out and 2.5 times more likely to have been involved in a fight in the city's nightlife during the previous 12 months.

Conclusions  Measures to tackle drunkenness and alcohol‐related violence in nightlife should expand beyond those targeted solely at nightlife environments. Continued disparities in pricing and policing of alcohol between on‐ and off‐licensed premises may increase at‐home drinking prior to nights out and alcohol‐related problems in residential areas.
Conditional models accounting for regression to the mean in observational multi‐wave panel studies on alcohol consumption
Authors: Ripatti Samuli , Mäkelä Pia
Published: November 2007

Aims  To develop statistical methodology needed for studying whether effects of an acute‐onset intervention differ by consumption group that accounts correctly for the effect of regression to the mean (RTM) in observational panel studies with three or more measurement waves.

Design  A general statistical modelling framework, based on conditional models, is presented for analysing alcohol panel data with three or more measurements, that models the dependence between initial drinking level and change in consumption controlling for RTM. The method is illustrated by panel data from Finland, southern Sweden and Denmark, where the effects of large changes in alcohol taxes and travellers' allowances were studied.

Findings  The suggested model allows for drawing statistical inference of the parameters of interest and also the identification of non‐linear effects of an intervention by initial consumption using standard statistical software modelling tools. There was no evidence in any of the countries of the changes being larger among heavy drinkers, but in southern Sweden there was evidence that light drinkers raised their level of consumption.

Conclusions  Conditional models are a versatile modelling framework that offers a flexible tool for modelling and testing changes due to intervention in consumption by initial consumption while controlling simultaneously for RTM.
Spectral models for solar-scaled and α-enhanced stellar populations
Authors: Coelho P. , Bruzual G. , Charlot S. , Weiss A. , Barbuy B. , Ferguson J. W.
Published: November 2007

We present the first models allowing one to explore in a consistent way the influence of changes in the α-element-to-iron abundance ratio on the high-resolution spectral properties of evolving stellar populations. The models cover the wavelength range from 3000 Å to 1.34 μm at a constant resolution of full width at half-maximum (FWHM) = 1 Å and a sampling of 0.2 Å, for overall metallicities in the range 0.005 ≤Z≤ 0.048 and for stellar population ages between 3 and 14 Gyr. These models are based on a recent library of synthetic stellar spectra and a new library of stellar evolutionary tracks, both computed for three different iron abundances ([Fe/H]=−0.5, 0.0 and 0.2) and two different α-element-to-iron abundance ratios ([α/Fe]= 0.0 and 0.4). We expect our fully synthetic models to be primarily useful for evaluating the differential effect of changes in the α/Fe ratio on spectral properties such as broad-band colours and narrow spectral features. In addition, we assess the accuracy of absolute model predictions in two ways: first, by comparing the predictions of models for scaled-solar metal abundances ([α/Fe]= 0.0) to those of existing models based on libraries of observed stellar spectra; and secondly, by comparing the predictions of models for α-enhanced metal abundances ([α/Fe]= 0.4) to observed spectra of massive early-type galaxies in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 4. We find that our models predict accurate strengths for those spectral indices that are strongly sensitive to the abundances of Fe and α elements. The predictions are less reliable for the strengths of other spectral features, such as those dominated by the abundances of C and N, as expected from the fact that the models do not yet allow one to explore the influence of these elements in an independent way. We conclude that our models are a powerful tool for extracting new information about the chemical properties of galaxies for which high-quality spectra have been gathered by modern surveys.
Supernovae in the Subaru Deep Field: an initial sample and Type Ia rate out to redshift 1.6
Authors: Poznanski D. , Maoz D. , Yasuda N. , Foley R. J. , Doi M. , Filippenko A. V. , Fukugita M. , Gal-Yam A. , Jannuzi B. T. , Morokuma T. , Oda T. , Schweiker H. , Sharon K. , Silverman J. M. , Totani T.
Published: November 2007

Large samples of high-redshift supernovae (SNe) are potentially powerful probes of cosmic star formation, metal enrichment and SN physics. We present initial results from a new deep SN survey, based on re-imaging in the R, i′, z′ bands, of the 0.25 deg2 Subaru Deep Field (SDF), with the 8.2-m Subaru telescope and Suprime-Cam. In a single new epoch consisting of two nights of observations, we have discovered 33 candidate SNe, down to a z′-band magnitude of 26.3 (AB). We have measured the photometric redshifts of the SN host galaxies, obtained Keck spectroscopic redshifts for 17 of the host galaxies and classified the SNe using the Bayesian photometric algorithm of Poznanski et al. that relies on template matching. After correcting for biases in the classification, 55 per cent of our sample consists of Type Ia SNe and 45 per cent of core-collapse SNe. The redshift distribution of the SNe Ia reaches z≈ 1.6, with a median of z≈ 1.2. The core-collapse SNe reach z≈ 1.0, with a median of z≈ 0.5. Our SN sample is comparable to the Hubble Space Telescope/Great Observatories Origins Deep Survey (GOODS) sample in both size and redshift range. The redshift distributions of the SNe in the SDF and in GOODS are consistent, but there is a trend (which requires confirmation using a larger sample) for more high-z SNe Ia in the SDF. This trend is also apparent when comparing the SN Ia rates we derive to those based on GOODS data. Our results suggest a fairly constant rate at high redshift that could be tracking the star formation rate. Additional epochs on this field, already being obtained, will enlarge our SN sample to the hundreds, and determine whether or not there is a decline in the SN Ia rate at z≳ 1.
Compact stellar systems around NGC 1399
Authors: Firth P. , Drinkwater M. J. , Evstigneeva E. A. , Gregg M. D. , Karick A. M. , Jones J. B. , Phillipps S.
Published: November 2007

We have obtained spectroscopic redshifts of colour-selected point sources in four wide area VLT-FLAMES (Very Large Telescope-Fibre Large Array Multi Element Spectrograph) fields around the Fornax cluster giant elliptical galaxy NGC 1399, identifying as cluster members 27 previously unknown faint compact stellar systems (CSS), and improving redshift accuracy for 23 previously catalogued CSS.

By amalgamating our results with CSS from previous 2dF observations and excluding CSS dynamically associated with prominent (non-dwarf) galaxies surrounding NGC 1399, we have isolated 80 ‘unbound’ systems that are either part of NGC  1399's globular cluster (GC) system or intracluster GCs. For these unbound systems, we find (i) they are mostly located off the main stellar locus in colour–colour space; (ii) their projected distribution about NGC  1399 is anisotropic, following the Fornax cluster galaxy distribution, and there is weak evidence for group rotation about NGC  1399; (iii) their completeness-adjusted radial surface density profile has a slope similar to that of NGC  1399's inner GC system; (iv) their mean heliocentric recessional velocity is between that of NGC  1399's inner GCs and that of the surrounding dwarf galaxies, but their velocity dispersion is significantly lower; (v) bright CSS (MV < −11) are slightly redder than the fainter systems, suggesting they have higher metallicity; (vi) CSS show no significant trend in g′−i′ colour index with radial distance from NGC  1399.
Arterial stiffness correlated with cardiac remodelling in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: WANG MING‐CHENG , TSAI WEI‐CHUAN , CHEN JU‐YI , CHENG MENG‐FU , HUANG JENG‐JONG
Published: November 2007

Background:  It is well known that both pressure and volume overloads contribute to left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and left ventricular dilatation in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Few studies have evaluated the association between increased pulse wave velocity (PWV) and LVH in CKD patients not yet receiving dialysis. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between arterial stiffness and cardiac remodelling in patients with CKD, and to determine the independent factors associated with increased left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and left ventricular volume index (LVVI).

Methods:  This cross‐sectional study included 96 patients with CKD. Echocardiography and measurement of arterial stiffness by PWV were performed. Clinical and echocardiographic parameters were compared and analysed.

Results:  Associated with the increase of PWV, there were significant trends for progressive increase in LVMI, LVH, LVVI, left ventricular dilatation and left atrium in CKD patients. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that decreased PWV, in addition to increased haemoglobin and the use of β‐blocker, was an independent determinant associated with decrease in LVMI and LVVI.

Conclusion:  Our study demonstrated the progressive structural remodelling of left ventricle and left atrium in CKD patients associated with increased severity of arterial stiffness. PWV was an important determinant of LVMI and LVVI in CKD patients.
Early postnatal renal growth in premature infants
Authors: HUANG HSIN‐PING , TSAI I‐JUNG , LAI YI‐CHUN , CHENG CHI‐HUI , TSAU YONG‐KWEI
Published: November 2007

Aims:  To assess postnatal kidney volume development and to compare the intrauterine and extrauterine kidney growth curves of premature infants.

Methods:  One hundred neonates were enrolled in this study, and all infants had their kidney volumes measured by renal ultrasound examination. Group GA consisted of 44 neonates who were evaluated within 48 h after birth, and their gestational ages were used in the analysis. Group CA included 56 premature infants born before 34 weeks of gestation and was evaluated 14–96 days after birth, and their conceptional ages were used in the analysis. Left kidney volume, body weight, body height and age were used in the correlation analysis.

Results:  There was a better kidney growth rate for Group GA infants than for Group CA infants (P = 0.001). Kidney volumes in Group CA infants were thus apparently larger than those of the Group GA infants before 31 weeks of age, but they were smaller after 31 weeks of age. Group GA infants had a significantly faster growth in body weight (P = 0.001) and body height (P < 0.001). However, a larger kidney volume was noted in Group CA infants with the same body weight (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  A chart is presented of the postnatal growth of normal kidney volume before 40 weeks conceptional age in premature infants. These data suggest that intrauterine growth may have a regulatory influence on kidney growth, and the reduced kidney volume in premature infants may result from the early extrauterine period.
Bilateral periocular psoriasis: an initial manifestation of acute generalized pustular psoriasis with coexistent Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Fernandes Merle , Vemuganti Geeta K , Rao Gullapalli N
Published: November 2007

Abstract

A 21‐year‐old febrile lady presented to the emergency service with severe lid oedema, conjunctivitis, dry mouth and abdominal skin rash. Over 5 days, she developed silvery scales and pustules on the lids, and generalized pustules on an erythematous base. Multiple focal sterile corneal infiltrates were seen. Haematological investigations and a skin biopsy were done as the consulting dermatologist suspected acute generalized pustular psoriasis. In addition, secondary Sjögren's syndrome was diagnosed since she had keratoconjunctivitis sicca, xerostomia, raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate and positive antinuclear antibodies. The presence of microabscesses in the epidermis on skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of pustular psoriasis. With oral methotrexate 7.5 mg weekly and topical corticosteroids, the acute condition gradually resolved; however, the keratoconjunctivitis sicca is persisting. Secondary Sjögren's syndrome associated with acute generalized pustular psoriasis and ocular psoriasis is extremely rare. Awareness of the ocular and dermatological features of these two conditions would result in earlier diagnosis and institution of appropriate treatment.
Retinal astrocytic hamartoma and Stargardt's disease: unusual association in a patient with ABCR mutation without phacomatosis
Authors: Bini Alessandro , Sodi Andrea , Passerini Ilaria , Menchini Ugo , Torricelli Francesca
Published: November 2007

Abstract

We report the unusual association of a retinal astrocytic hamartoma and Stargardt's disease in a patient with ABCR mutation. A healthy 24‐year‐old man exhibited the typical fundus appearance of Stargardt's disease in both eyes, associated with a white, well‐circumscribed, elevated lesion in the inferotemporal area of the right eye. Molecular genetic examination of the ABCR gene detected three heterozygous missense mutations, described in the literature in association with Stargardt's disease. Optical coherence tomography, fluorangiography, electroretinography and B scan ultrasonography were performed. The clinical findings were consistent with the diagnosis of retinal astrocytic hamartoma. The connection between Stargardt's disease and this tumour has never been previously reported. The astrocytic hamartoma of our patient showed unusual clinical features. This association is probably incidental.
Sticky platelet syndrome and anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy
Authors: Randhawa Sandeep , Van Stavern Gregory P
Published: November 2007

Abstract

We report a young patient who presented with nonarteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy associated with the sticky platelet syndrome (SPS, a congenital prothrombotic disorder). A 15‐year‐old boy presented with a sudden, painless onset of a right inferior altitudinal visual field defect and marked optic disc oedema. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging (including orbits), orbital ultrasound and haematological investigations including a routine hypercoagulability work‐up were negative. Further evaluation showed a positive assay for SPS which was confirmed on repeat testing. The SPS (characterized by platelet hyperaggregability and vascular occlusion) may be a potential thrombophilic risk factor for nonarteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy.
Metastatic breast carcinoma presenting as a conjunctival lesion
Authors: Skalicky Simon E , Hirst Lawrence W , Conway R Max
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Metastatic carcinoma to the conjunctiva is a rare tumour that reflects advanced disease with a poor prognosis. A case of conjunctival metastatic breast carcinoma is described which developed 9 months after the primary cancer was removed, and led to the detection of diffuse systemic malignancy. The tumour responded to intravenous chemotherapy.
Indications of paediatric keratoplasty in north China
Authors: Shi Weiyun , Jin Huixiang , Li Suxia , Liu Mingna , Xie Lixin
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  To analyse indications of paediatric keratoplasty in north China and provide information for the prevention of corneal blindness.

Methods:  A retrospective study was carried out in 371 children (410 eyes) aged 14 years or younger who underwent corneal transplantation at Shandong Eye Institute between 1994 and 2005. Data of preoperative diagnoses, aetiological factors and rural or urban backgrounds were evaluated.

Results:  The study included 259 boys and 112 girls, with a mean age of 7.8 ± 4.3 years (range 2.5 months to 14 years). Of the 410 eyes, 99 eyes (24.2%) had mechanical trauma, and 93 (22.7%) had infectious keratitis. Congenital corneal opacity developed in 53 eyes (12.9%), chemical or thermal burn in 42 eyes (10.2%) and keratoconus in 37 eyes (9.0%). There were twice as many children from a rural background as those from urban background, and an even higher proportion in the category of infectious keratitis (4.8:1). Regraft was performed in 42 eyes, of which 17 had an original diagnosis of chemical or thermal burn.

Conclusions:  Mechanical trauma and infectious keratitis are the most common indications of paediatric keratoplasty, as well as childhood corneal blindness, in north China. Regraft occurs more often in children with ocular burns.
The effect of propolis in experimental Acanthamoeba keratitis
Authors: Vural Ayse , Polat Zubeyde Akin , Topalkara Aysen , Toker Mustafa Ilker , Erdogan Haydar , Arici Mustafa Kemal , Cetin Ali
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  To examine the effect of propolis in a rat model of Acanthamoeba keratitis and to determine its in vitro cytotoxicity in cultured corneal epithelial cells.

Methods:  Eighteen Wistar albino rats were used. Cultured corneal epithelial cells obtained from two healthy rats for in vitro cytotoxicity of propolis. Corneal stromal inoculation was performed in 16 rats with amoebic culture containing 1 × 106 amoeba/mL. Rats with Acanthamoeba keratitis 5 days later after the inoculation were divided randomly into four groups, and eight eyes of each group were treated with study drugs. The propolis, chlorhexidine (CHX), propolis plus CHX and control eyes were treated with topical propolis, 0.002% CHX, propolis plus 0.002% CHX and lubricant eye drops, respectively. The study drugs were instilled every one hour for 10 days. All eyes were examined and keratitis graded by slit‐lamp biomicroscopy on days 2, 5 and 10 during the administration of the study drugs. After the completion of keratitis grading, all the 16 rats were humanely killed and their corneas were excised and used for Acanthamoeba culture to evaluate presence of Acanthamoeba growth after treatment 14 days later.

Results:  Concentrations of propolis higher than 7.81 mg/mL cause damage to corneal epithelial cells in the experiment of in vitro cytotoxicity of propolis on corneal epithelial cells. The keratitis grade on day 2 in the CHX eyes was significantly lower than that in the control eyes (P < 0.05). The keratitis grades on days 5 and 10 in the propolis, CHX and propolis plus CHX eyes were significantly lower compared with those on days 5 and 10 in the control eyes (P < 0.05). In the propolis eyes, the keratitis grade on day 5 was significantly lower than that on day 2 (P < 0.05), and it was significantly lower on day 10 compared with that on day 5 (P < 0.05). In the CHX and propolis plus CHX eyes, the keratitis grade on day 10 was significantly lower compared with that on days 2 and 5 (P < 0.05). In the control eyes, there was no significant difference in the keratitis grades on days 2, 5 and 10 (P > 0.05). The culture positivity at Acanthamoeba growth after treatment experiment in the propolis, CHX and propolis plus CHX eyes was significantly lower than that in the control eyes (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  We suggest that propolis had amoebicidal properties in this rat model of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Further investigations to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the individual fractions of the resin could yield more information about its mechanism of action in treating this disease.
The Regulation of Government Advertising in Australia: The Politicisation of a Public Policy Issue
Authors: Young Sally
Published: November 2007

In Australia, there is a laissez faire approach to regulating government advertising but, over the past ten years as accusations of misuse for partisan purposes have grown, many external policy actors have tried to achieve a change in policy. This article traces the history of these (failed) reform attempts. This case study is of interest because it is an example of a government demonstrating long‐term resistance to reforms that are quite modest by international standards and despite attempts by usually influential policy actors to propel reform. This article draws particular attention to the role of the Auditor‐General and demonstrates the growing politicisation of the issue in an environment where those who seek to investigate and comment upon government advertising are severely discouraged.
Accountability or Countability? Performance Measurement in the New Zealand Public Service, 1992–2002
Authors: Lonti Zsuzsanna , Gregory Robert
Published: November 2007

This article examines how output classes and performance indicators have changed between 1992 and 2002 in five selected departments of the New Zealand Public Service. Process, output and largely artificial service quality performance measures have crowded out outcome, efficiency and effectiveness indicators, across the board. Both output classes and performance indicators have been highly labile, though the reasons for this remain speculative in the meantime. The New Zealand state sector is currently implementing a ‘managing for outcomes’ strategy, intended to overcome too strong a preoccupation with the production of outputs. However, because output classes remain the key feature of the Public Finance Act 1989 the means of ensuring and demonstrating policy effectiveness must be more broadly based than a reliance on the countability of organisational output classes and performance measures.
The role of psychophysiology in forensic assessments: Deception detection, ERPs, and virtual reality mock crime scenarios
Authors: Mertens Ralf , Allen John J.B.
Published: November 2007

Few data are available to address whether the use of ERP‐based deception detection alternatives have sufficient validity for applied use. The present study was designed to replicate and extend J. P. Rosenfeld, M. Soskins, G. Bosh, and A. Ryan's (2004) study by utilizing a virtual reality crime scenario to determine whether ERP‐based procedures, including brain fingerprinting, can be rendered less effective by participant manipulation by employing a virtual reality crime scenario and multiple countermeasures. Bayesian and bootstrapping analytic approaches were used to classify individuals as guilty or innocent. Guilty subjects were detected significantly less frequently compared to previous studies; countermeasures further reduced the overall hit rates. Innocent participants remained protected from being falsely accused. Reaction times did not prove suitable for accurate classification. Results suggested that guilty verdicts from ERP‐based deception detection approaches are likely to be accurate, but that innocent (or indeterminate) verdicts yield no useful interpretation in an applied setting.
Combining structural and functional neuroimaging data for studying brain connectivity: A review
Authors: Rykhlevskaia Elena , Gratton Gabriele , Fabiani Monica
Published: November 2007

Different brain areas are thought to be integrated into large‐scale networks to support cognitive function. Recent approaches for investigating structural organization and functional coordination within these networks involve measures of connectivity among brain areas. We review studies combining in vivo structural and functional brain connectivity data, where (a) structural connectivity analysis, mostly based on diffusion tensor imaging is paired with voxel‐wise analysis of functional neuroimaging data or (b) the measurement of functional connectivity based on covariance analysis is guided/aided by structural connectivity data. These studies provide insights into the relationships between brain structure and function. Promising trends involve (a) studies where both functional and anatomical connectivity data are collected using high‐resolution neuroimaging methods and (b) the development of advanced quantitative models of integration.
Beta (∼16 Hz) frequency neural oscillations mediate auditory sensory gating in humans
Authors: Hong L. Elliot , Buchanan Robert W. , Thaker Gunvant K. , Shepard Paul D. , Summerfelt Ann
Published: November 2007

The brain's oscillatory activities in response to sensory input are likely signals representing different stages of sensory information processing. To understand these signals, it is critical to establish the specificity of the timing and frequency of oscillations associated with sensory and sensory‐related cognitive processing. We used a simple paired auditory stimulus paradigm for sensory gating and sought to identify time‐ and frequency‐specific oscillatory components contributing to sensory gating. Using a discrete wavelet decomposition technique we separated single‐trial time‐frequency components of evoked potentials elicited by the first of two stimuli. Regression analyses were then used to identify the components most relevant to the suppression of the second evoked potential response. The results suggested that beta oscillation indexed a neural process associated with the strength of sensory gating.
ERPs reveal subliminal processing of fearful faces
Authors: Kiss Monika , Eimer Martin
Published: November 2007

To investigate whether facial expression is processed in the absence of conscious awareness, ERPs were recorded in a task in which participants had to identify the expression of masked fearful and neutral target faces. On supraliminal trials (200 ms target duration), in which identification performance was high, a sustained positivity to fearful versus neutral target faces started 140 ms after target face onset. On subliminal trials (8 ms target duration), identification performance was at chance level, but ERPs still showed systematic fear‐specific effects. An early positivity to fearful target faces was present but smaller than on supraliminal trials. A subsequent enhanced N2 to fearful faces was only present for subliminal trials. In contrast, a P3 enhancement to fearful faces was observed on supraliminal but not subliminal trials. Results demonstrate rapid emotional expression processing in the absence of awareness.
Membrane‐permeable Bcl‐xL prevents MPTP‐induced dopaminergic neuronal loss in the substantia nigra
Authors: Dietz Gunnar P. H. , Stockhausen (née Peters) Kerstin V. , Dietz Birgit , Falkenburger Björn H. , Valbuena Paola , Opazo Felipe , Lingor Paul , Meuer Katrin , Weishaupt Jochen H. , Schulz Jörg B. , Bähr Mathias
Published: November 2007

The anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐xL is a promising agent to prevent neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease, which is characterized by a demise of dopaminergic neurons. We linked Bcl‐xL to a peptide that allows its delivery across biological membranes and the blood–brain barrier. We tested the fusion protein in two models of Parkinson’s Disease. Cell‐permeable Bcl‐xL protected neuroblastoma cells from the selective neurotoxin 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium. Furthermore, its systemic application in aged mice protected dopaminergic neurons following administration of MPTP as revealed by counting of tyrosine hydroxylase‐immunoreactive neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Hence, we present that a cell‐permeable form of an anti‐apoptotic protein can be delivered to CNS neurons through its systemic application, and we provide the proof that the delivery of this protein to the CNS neurons effectively prevents neuronal cell death in models of chronic neurodegenerative diseases.