bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet: applicability and acceptability to a UK population
Authors: Harnden K. E. , Frayn K. N. , Hodson L.
Published: October 2009

Background:  The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is widely promoted in the USA for the prevention and treatment of high blood pressure. It is high in fruit and vegetables, low‐fat dairy and wholegrain foods and low in saturated fat and refined sugar. To our knowledge, the use of this dietary pattern has not been assessed in a free‐living UK population.

Methods:  The DASH diet was adapted to fit UK food preferences and portion sizes. Fourteen healthy subjects followed the adapted DASH diet for 30 days in which they self‐selected all food and beverages. Dietary intake was assessed by 5‐day food diaries completed before and towards the end of the study. Blood pressure was measured at the beginning and end of the study to assess compliance to the DASH style diet.

Results:  The DASH diet was easily adapted to fit with UK food preferences. Furthermore, it was well tolerated and accepted by subjects. When on the DASH style diet, subjects reported consuming significantly (P < 0.01) more carbohydrate and protein and less total fat (5%, 6% and 9% total energy, respectively). Sodium intakes decreased by 860 mg day−1 (P < 0.001). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly (P < 0.05) by 4.6 and 3.9 mmHg, respectively when on the DASH style diet.

Conclusions:  The DASH style diet was well accepted and was associated with a decrease in blood pressure in normotensive individuals and should be considered when giving dietary advice to people with elevated blood pressure in the UK.
Effects of post materials and length on the stress distribution of endodontically treated maxillary central incisors: a 3D finite element analysis
Authors: HSU M.‐L. , CHEN C.‐S. , CHEN B.‐J. , HUANG H.‐H. , CHANG C.‐L.
Published: October 2009

Summary  Traditionally, using a long post can cause progressive removal of the root structure, complicate the ability to re‐treat the tooth if necessary and make it difficult to apply an adhesive bonding agent into the root canal. It is unclear if a shorter post length can be applied when a light translucent glass fibre post and adhesive resin cement are used. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical performance of endodontically treated teeth restored with three post materials, glass‐fibre, stainless steel and cast‐nickel chromium posts and cores of different lengths of 7, 10 and 13 mm. A 3D finite element analysis model of the maxillary central incisor was constructed. An occlusal load of 300 N was applied to a node at the palatal surface of the crown at 45° to the long axis of the tooth. von Mises stress analyses were carried out in three regions. Simulated data were collected for plotting various pattern graphics and conducting statistical tests. The pattern graphics showed that when the post length changed from 13 to 7 mm, the stress patterns were even and flat in all fibre‐post groups, while the stress patterns of the metal‐post groups showed an M‐shaped peak and trough. Statistical tests showed that the shorter fibre post was superior to the longer metal post in some situations. Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that when a metal post is used, the post should be as long as possible, while the biomechanical performance of a glass‐fibre post combined with a composite resin core was less sensitive to post length.
Decrease in stereognostic ability of the tongue with age
Authors: KAWAGISHI S. , KOU F. , YOSHINO K. , TANAKA T. , MASUMI S.
Published: October 2009

Summary  Rehabilitation of eating and swallowing functions from the viewpoint of quality of life should attempt to restore not only the physical, but also sensory function. As the size and shape of the intra‐oral bolus of food provides oral sensory information important for eating and swallowing, we investigated the stereognostic ability of the tongue in 269 young adults (mean age: 24·5 years) and 60 seniors (mean age: 80·5 years); all of whom had no eating or swallowing complaints. Assessment of the stereognostic ability involved identifying 20 differently shaped test pieces placed in the oral cavity. The young adults identified a significantly higher number of differently shaped test pieces than the seniors (mean correct number of responses: 16·5 and 10·1 respectively; P < 0·001). Gender and the presence of palatal covers did not have any significant effect on stereognostic ability. The test pieces were categorized into six groups based on the shape. When the young adults misidentified a piece, they often selected another piece within the same group, almost never selecting a piece from another group. The seniors, however, chose test pieces from different groups. Moreover, to determine whether stereognosis could be improved through training, we conducted training involving four senior subjects in their 80s, who correctly identified 10 or fewer pieces. After the training, the number of correct answers increased significantly (P < 0·05). These findings indicate that seniors show decreased stereognostic ability of the tongue compared with young adults and suggest the possibility of recovering the ability using our training method.
Functional stratification of the Spitzenkörper of Neurospora crassa
Authors: Verdín Jorge , Bartnicki‐Garcia Salomon , Riquelme Meritxell
Published: October 2009

GS‐1 (ncu04189) is a protein required for the synthesis of β‐1,3‐glucan in Neurospora crassa. As chitin, β‐1,3‐glucan is a morphogenetically relevant component of the fungal cell wall. Previously, we showed that chitin synthases are delivered to the growing hyphal tip of N. crassa by secretory microvesicles that follow an unconventional route and accumulate in the core of the Spitzenkörper (Spk). Tagged with the green fluorescent protein (GFP), GS‐1 accumulated in the hyphal apex forming a dynamic and pleomorphic ring‐like structure (‘Spitzenring’) that corresponded to the Spk outer macrovesicular stratum and surrounded the inner core of chitin synthase‐containing microvesicles. TIRF microscopy revealed that GS‐1‐GFP reached the hyphal apex as a population of heterogeneous‐size particles that moved along defined paths. On sucrose density gradients, GS‐1‐associated particles mainly sedimented in a high density range 1.1272–1.2124 g ml−1. Clearly, GS‐1 and chitin synthases of N. crassa are contained in two different types of secretory vesicles that accumulate in different strata of the Spk, a differentiation presumably related to the spatial control of cell‐wall synthesis.
Distinct β‐clamp interactions govern the activities of the Y family PolIV DNA polymerase
Authors: Wagner Jérôme , Etienne Hélène , Fuchs Robert P. , Cordonnier Agnes , Burnouf Dominique
Published: October 2009

The prototypic Y family DNA polymerase IV (PolIV) of Escherichia coli is involved in multiple replication‐associated processes including spontaneous mutagenesis, translesion synthesis (TLS), cell fitness, survival under stressful conditions and checkpoint like functions. It interacts physically and functionally with the replisome's β processivity clamp through the canonical PolIV C‐terminal peptide (CTP). A second interaction that involves a portion of the little finger (LF) domain of PolIV has been structurally described. Here we show that the LF–β interaction stabilizes the clamp–polymerase complex in vitro and is necessary for the access of PolIV to ongoing replication forks in vivo. However, in contrast to the CTP–β, the LF–β interaction is dispensable for the role of the polymerase in TLS. This discloses two independent modes of action for PolIV and, in turn, uncovers a novel way by which the cell may regulate the potentially deleterious effect of such low fidelity polymerases during replication.
Diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis by the polymerase chain reaction using blood, bone marrow and lymph node samples from patients from the Sudan
Authors: Andresen K. , Gasim S. , Elhassan A. M. , Khalil E. A. G. , Barker D. C. , Theander T. G. , Kharazmi A.
Published: October 2009

Summary We have evaluated the sensitivity of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as a diagnostic tool for Leishmania donovani using blood, bone marrow and lymph node samples from Sudanese patients with a confirmed infection. Forty patients were diagnosed by microscopic examination of bone marrow or lymph node samples. The PCR was able to detect parasite DNA in 37 out of 40 blood samples. In bone marrow and lymph node samples, the PCR was able to detect parasite DNA in all 7 and 6 samples, respectively. We suggest that the PCR should be considered as a valuable and sensitive tool for the diagnosis of L. donovani infection. However, if PCR diagnosis is to supplement or even replace microscopic diagnosis in developing countries, a large number of patients with no apparent signs of infection and patients with other diseases have to be tested in order to evaluate its true potential.
Molecular typing of HLA class I and class II antigens in Indian kala‐azar patients
Authors: Singh Neeloo , Sundar Shyam , Williams Fionnuala , Curran Martin D. , Rastogi Anil , Agrawal Suraksha , Middleton Derek
Published: October 2009

Summary HLA has been shown to be associated with many diseases. To find out whether host genetic factors like the HLA are involved in susceptibility to kala‐azar (visceral leishmaniasis) in India, we formulated an association study with genetically related controls. All samples were typed by PCR SSOP (sequence specific oligonucleotide probes) for HLA class I (A and B) and class II (DR) antigens. The test of association we used was the transmission disequilibrium test (TDT). No significant evidence for association with any of the three HLA loci was obtained.
Protective effect of Trypanosoma rangeli against infections with a highly virulent strain of Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Zuñiga Claudio , Palau Teresa , Penin Pilar , Gamallo Carlos , de Diego Jose Antonio
Published: October 2009

Summary We investigated the protective effect of Trypanosoma rangeli against infection with Trypanosoma cruzi in animal models of various ages and with different doses of inoculum. The age of the mice and the dose of parasites determined the course of the infection. When T. cruzi was inoculated into mice after challenge with T. rangeli, parasitaemia was more controlled, mortality decreased and histopathology showed lower inflammatory infiltration and pseudocysts. This study proposes a new murine model of the protective effect of recombinant proteins of T. rangeli for possible application in the vaccines field.
Malaria‐related beliefs and behaviour in southern Ghana: implications for treatment, prevention and control
Authors: Ahorlu Collins K. , Dunyo Samuel K. , Afari Edwin A. , Koram Kwadwo A. , Nkrumah Francis K.
Published: October 2009

Summary A research infrastructure was established in two ecological zones in southern Ghana to study the variables of malaria transmission and provide information to support the country's Malaria Action Plan (MAP) launched in 1992. Residents' beliefs and practices about causes, recognition, treatment and prevention of malaria were explored in two ecological zones in southern Ghana using epidemiological and social research methods. In both communities females constituted more than 80% of caretakers of children 1–9 years and the illiteracy rate was high. Fever and malaria, which are locally called Asra or Atridi, were found to represent the same thing and are used interchangeably. Caretakers were well informed about the major symptoms of malaria, which correspond to the current clinical case definition of malaria. Knowledge about malaria transmission is, however, shrouded in many misconceptions. Though the human dwellings in the study communities conferred no real protection against mosquitoes, bednet usage was low while residents combatted the nuisance of mosquitoes with insecticide sprays, burning of coils and herbs, which they largely considered as temporary measures. Home treatment of malaria combining herbs and over‐the‐counter drugs and inadequate doses of chloroquine was widespread. There is a need for a strong educational component to be incorporated into the MAP to correct misconceptions about malaria transmission, appropriate treatment and protection of households. Malaria control policies should recognize the role of home treatment and drug shops in the management of malaria and incorporate them into existing control strategies.
Acceptability and use of insecticide impregnated bednets in northern Ghana
Authors: Binka F. N. , Adongo P.
Published: October 2009

Summary A district‐wide study was undertaken in a rural population of northern Ghana to identify factors influencing the acceptance and use of insecticide‐impregnated bednets (IIBNs). A series of focus group discussions were conducted during 2 years of implementation of IIBNs to gauge community reactions to the introduction of the nets and a structured questionnaire was administered to approximately 2000 randomly selected individuals. Although the IIBNs were accepted and used because they provided protection from mosquito bites, seasonal factors, patterns of use, and questions of cost were key factors likely to influence the dissemination and effectiveness of bednets. Use of the bednets was highly seasonal. Almost all recipients used their IIBNs in the rainy season (99%), corresponding to the period of high mosquito density and 20% used them in the dry seasons, the period of low mosquito density. Mothers with young children were more likely to wash the bednets frequently (because the children soiled the bednets with faeces and urine), resulting in no protection from the insecticide. Provision of wider bednets, or the provision of plastic sheets with the bednets or possible incorporation of the insecticide in washing soaps could improve protection for young children.

The success of the promotion of IIBNs in malaria control programmes will depend on the cost of the package and the time of year that it is delivered. Financing mechanisms for individual and village groups are discussed. Social research effectively monitored the intervention in this study, and it should be included as an important component of national malaria control programmes.
Massive ascites after living donor liver transplantation with a right lobe graft larger than 0.8% of the recipient’s body weight
Authors: Shirouzu Yasumasa , Ohya Yuki , Suda Hiroko , Asonuma Katsuhiro , Inomata Yukihiro
Published: October 2009

Shirouzu Y, Ohya Y, Suda H, Asonuma K, Inomata Y. Massive ascites after living donor liver transplantation with a right lobe graft larger than 0.8% of the recipient’s body weight. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 520–527. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  There are only limited data on post‐transplant ascites unrelated to small‐sized grafts in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

Methods:  The subjects were 59 adult patients who had received right lobe LDLT with a graft weight‐to‐recipient weight ratio (GRWR) > 0.8%. Patients were divided into either Group 1 (n = 14, massive ascites, defined as the production of ascitic fluid > 1000 mL/d that lasted longer than 14 d after LDLT) or Group 2 (n = 45, no development of massive ascites). Patients were followed for a median period of 3.0 yr (range, 0.5–7.5 yr).

Results:  Group 1 had both higher Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score and Child‐Pugh score than Group 2. Portal venous flow volume just after reperfusion was significantly greater in Group 1 than Group 2 (307.8 ± 268.8 vs. 176.2 ± 75.0 mL/min/100 g graft weight, respectively; p < 0.05). Post‐transplant infectious complications including ascites infection developed more frequently within the first post‐transplant month in Group 1. Massive ascites was significantly associated with early graft loss (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Post‐transplant massive ascites associated with portal over‐perfusion into the graft liver can develop in patients with a GRWR over 0.8%. Recipients with post‐transplant massive ascites require careful management to prevent infection.
Gender bias in Iranian living kidney transplantation program: a national report
Authors: Taheri Saeed , Alavian Seyed M. , Einollahi Behzad , Nafar Mohsen
Published: October 2009

Taheri S, Alavian SM, Einollahi B, Nafar M. Gender bias in Iranian living kidney transplantation program: a national report. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 528–534. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Introduction:  Strong challenges exist about living kidney transplantation practices worldwide. One of these concerns is based on the observation that in many places women constitute the majority of living kidney donors but the minority of recipients. We studied this issue in Iran by using national data for kidney transplantation.

Methods:  Data of the Iranian national registry for kidney transplantation which comprises data of all renal transplantations performed in the country during a 22 yr period were included in the study. Data of 16 672 living donors (living related [LR] = 16%, living unrelated [LUR] = 86%) were analyzed.

Results:  Males received 62.2% of all kidney transplants. From 16 672 living donors, 20% and 80% were women and men, respectively. Recipients were more likely to receive kidney allograft from their own gender groups (p < 0.05). In living related donations, mothers, brothers and sons were significantly more often donors than their counterparts of opposite gender.

Conclusion:  In contrast with previous reports from other countries, this study of Iranian national data revealed that in Iran, most related and unrelated living kidney donors are male and the percentage of recipients who are female exceeds the percentage of donors who are female. Considering previous reports from other countries, our findings suggest that Iran is the only country in which females are more likely to be recipients of a kidney allograft than donors. The reason for the predominance of male kidney donors in Iran is probably multifactorial and associated with economical, social and cultural issues. The financial incentives paid to living unrelated donors may be an attraction for males to donate a kidney although, even in living related donations, males constitute the majority of donors.
Knowledge of residual curarization: an Italian survey
Authors: DI MARCO P. , DELLA ROCCA G. , IANNUCCELLI F. , POMPEI L. , REALE C. , PIETROPAOLI P.
Published: October 2009

Background: The use of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) is widespread in anesthetic practice; little is known about the current use of these drugs in Italy. This survey was conducted to obtain information about the most commonly used clinical tests and the train‐of‐four (TOF) ratios that are considered as being reliable for assessing recovery from neuromuscular blockade at the end of anesthesia and the estimated occurrence rates of post‐operative paralysis in Italian hospitals.

Methods: The questionnaire was given to Italian anesthesiologists attending the 62nd National Congress of the Italian Society of Anesthesia, Analgesia and Intensive Therapy. Collected data were stratified by age and the total number of surgical procedures performed in the hospitals concerned.

Results: Seven hundred and fifty‐four correctly compiled questionnaires were collected (response rate 88.7%). Seventy three percent of the respondents only used clinical tests for monitoring the level of neuromuscular blockade. The main clinical tests cited for the evaluation of residual paralysis were keeping the head lifted up for 5 s, protruding the tongue and opening the eyes. TOF was used by 35% of the respondents on a routine basis. Only 24% of the interviewed anesthesiologists reported that before extubation, a TOF ratio of at least 0.9 should be reached.

Conclusions: Most Italian anesthetists assess the recovery from neuromuscular blockade only by clinical signs. There is poor awareness about the inability of such techniques to indicate even a significant amount of residual neuromuscular block. A more extensive use of quantitative instrumental monitoring is required for the more rational use of NMBAs.
Correlation and agreement between the bispectral index vs. state entropy during hypothermic cardio‐pulmonary bypass
Authors: MEYBOHM P. , GRUENEWALD M. , HÖCKER J. , RENNER J. , GRAESNER J.‐T. , ILIES C. , SCHOLZ J. , BEIN B.
Published: October 2009

Background: The bispectral index (BIS) and spectral entropy enable monitoring the depth of anaesthesia. Mild hypothermia has been shown to affect the ability of electroencephalography monitors to reflect the anaesthetic drug effect. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of hypothermia during a cardio‐pulmonary bypass on the correlation and agreement between the BIS and entropy variables compared with normothermic conditions.

Methods: This prospective clinical study included coronary artery bypass grafting patients (n=25) evaluating correlation and agreement (Bland–Altman analysis) between the BIS and both spectral and response entropy during a hypothermic cardio‐pulmonary bypass (31–34 °C) compared with nomothermic conditions (34–37.5 °C). Anaesthesia was maintained with propofol and sufentanil and adjusted clinically, while the anaesthetist was blinded to the monitors.

Results: The BIS and entropy values decreased during cooling (P<0.05), but the decrease was more pronounced for entropy variables compared with BIS (P<0.05). The correlation coefficients (bias±SD; percentage error) between the BIS vs. spectral state entropy and response entropy were r2=0.56 (1±11; 42%) and r2=0.58 (−2±11; 43%) under normothermic conditions, and r2=0.17 (10±12; 77%) and r2=0.18 (9±11; 68%) under hypothermic conditions, respectively. Bias was significantly increased under hypothermic conditions (P<0.001 vs. normothermia).

Conclusion: Acceptable agreement was observed between the BIS and entropy variables under normothermic but not under hypothermic conditions. The BIS and entropy variables may therefore not be interchangeable during a hypothermic cardio‐pulmonary bypass.
Spatial distribution of cadmium in leaves and its impact on photosynthesis: examples of different strategies in willow and poplar clones
Authors: Pietrini F. , Zacchini M. , Iori V. , Pietrosanti L. , Ferretti M. , Massacci A.
Published: October 2009

The interaction of cadmium (Cd) with photosynthesis was investigated in poplar (Populus x canadensis Mönch., clone A4A, Populus nigra L., clone Poli) and willow (Salix alba L., clone SS5) clones that had different leaf metal concentrations in preliminary experiments. Plants grown in the presence of 50 μm CdSO4 for 3 weeks under hydroponic conditions were used to examine leaf gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and images, and for Cd detection using energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (ED‐XRF). Leaves were finally analysed for Cd and phytochelatin concentrations. Results showed that SS5 had the highest leaf Cd concentration and high gas exchange activity similar to that of Poli, which had the lowest Cd concentration. Leaf fluorescence images evidenced in large undamaged areas of SS5 corresponded to high values of Fv/Fm, Fo, ΦPSII, qP and NPQ, while patches of dark colour (visible necrosis) close to the main vein corresponded to low values of these parameters. In A4A, these necrotic patches were more diffuse on the leaf blade and associated with a range of fluorescence parameter values. ED‐XRF analysis indicated that Cd was only detectable in necroses of SS5 leaves, while in A4A it was relatively more diffuse. Phytochelatins (PCs) were not detected in SS5, while their concentration was high in both Poli and A4A. The absence of these molecules in SS5 is thought to favour confinement of high accumulations of Cd to necrotic areas and gives SS5 the ability to maintain high photosynthesis and transpiration in remaining parts of the leaf.
Numerical computation in the viscoelastoplastic continuum damage of hot mix asphalt concrete
Authors: MUN S.
Published: October 2009

The objective of this paper is to develop an accurate and advanced material characterization of hot mix asphalt concrete using an existing viscoelastoplastic constitutive model that accounts for rate of loading, temperature and stress state with growing damage. The modelling strategy of viscoelastoplastic continuum damage is based on modelling strain components separately and then combining the resulting models to obtain a final integrated viscoelastoplastic model. According to this model, the initial‐boundary value problem is numerically solved using the constitutive relationship expressed in the convolution integral form. The model is successful in predicting responses up to localization when microcracks start to coalesce.
Toward a Trust‐Based Construction Management
Authors: Guerriero Annie , Kubicki Sylvain , Halin Gilles
Published: October 2009

Abstract:  The growing complexity of AEC projects is increasing the importance of the building construction coordination role. Moreover, the uncertainty linked to the environment of the construction activity makes way for the notion of trust. The coordinator can make use of multiple tools/views for accomplishing his mission. This research work suggests analyzing data coming from these different views to consolidate trust indicators informing the coordinator about “trust in the correct progression of the construction activity.” The approach suggested in this article distinguishes between four aspects of the activity determining the global trust level: task progress, actor's performance, documents required to perform the task, and building elements resulting from the task. The proposal suggests introducing these trust indicators in a dashboard, included in a multiview interface, thus allowing the coordinator to identify the tasks with a low trust level and to understand the nature of dysfunctions. A prototype has been developed and integrated in a service‐based IT infrastructure. Results of an experiment stage are finally discussed to validate the approach.
Measuring Implicit British Perceptions of German Intentions in 1938–1939
Authors: Winter David G. , Sweet Brooke E.
Published: October 2009

Implicit British perceptions of German leaders during the period September 30, 1938–September 1, 1939 (from the Munich Agreements to the German invasion of Poland) are studied with a “ratio of threat accentuation” measure. This ratio is calculated by comparing the densities of power motive imagery in two kinds of archival material: full texts of major Hitler speeches versus summaries in The Times of London, and British versus German accounts of meetings between British diplomats and major Nazi leaders. In both cases, the British ratio of threat accentuation increases following the unexpected German occupation of Prague and the rest of Czechoslovakia on March 15, 1939. These changes in implicit perception are congruent with changes in British explicit perceptions and foreign policy after the German action.
A Longitudinal Test of the Model of Political Conservatism as Motivated Social Cognition
Authors: Matthews Miriam , Levin Shana , Sidanius Jim
Published: October 2009

Using data from a longitudinal study of college students, this study assessed the relationships among the threat perceptions of realistic threat and intergroup anxiety, the ideological motives of system justification and social dominance orientation (SDO), and political conservatism. Those who had higher perceptions of realistic threat and intergroup anxiety at the end of their first year of college showed higher levels of system justification and SDO at the end of their second and third years of college, controlling for precollege expressions of each variable. Higher levels of these two ideological motives at the end of students' second and third years of college were associated with more politically conservative attitudes at the end of students' fourth year of college, again controlling for precollege expressions. These longitudinal results are discussed in terms of a model of political conservatism as motivated social cognition.
The European Emissions Trading Scheme Case Law
Authors: Van Zeben Josephine A.W.
Published: October 2009

Within European climate change and energy policy, the European Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) occupies a prominent role. This article considers the developing case law of the European courts on the EU ETS. Specific attention is paid to the role of the different actors within the EU ETS and the impact that their applications to the courts may have on the further development of the EU ETS. Moreover, the continuing lack of standing of private parties in EU ETS cases is analysed in light of demands for legal certainty within a developing economic market.
Climate Change Litigation in Canada and the USA
Authors: Schatz Julia
Published: October 2009

This article examines the growing phenomenon of climate change litigation in the USA and Canada. It explores the expanding context in which this litigation is occurring and highlights key successes and failures of these actions. In the absence of a comprehensive federal framework in both countries, the article shows how litigation is being used by claimants to attempt to require government action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to force private entities to do the same and to pay damages. Whether a piecemeal approach to climate change engendered through litigation can provide a solution to this global issue remains to be seen.
Linking Climate Litigation and Human Rights
Authors: Averill Marilyn
Published: October 2009

Human activities since the beginning of the industrial age have produced emissions that are accelerating natural forces and changing the global climate. The expected impacts on sea levels, temperature, precipitation and storm intensity will stress many human communities and, in many cases, will threaten basic human rights. Climate litigation provides one tool that can be used to shape climate policy and to seek redress from climate‐related injuries. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of linking climate litigation and human rights in order to find effective strategies for protecting those most vulnerable to threats to well‐being created by climate change.
Belt and Suspenders? The World Heritage Convention's Role in Confronting Climate Change
Authors: Burns William C.G.
Published: October 2009

In the face of increasing frustration with the tepid, and largely feckless, national and international institutional responses to the growing threat of climate change, many governments, as well as non‐governmental actors, have either initiated or are exploring potential causes of action in judicial and quasi‐judicial fora. This article explores one of these recent actions, the petitions before the World Heritage Committee requesting listing of several sites listed as World Heritage Sites under the World Heritage Convention on the List of World Heritage in Danger. The article explores the contours of the petitions filed to the Committee, the potential implications of listing of sites threatened by climate change on the List of World Heritage in Danger and the merits of the legal arguments advanced in opposition to such listings.
Privatizing Environmental Resources: The Need for Supervision of Clean Development Mechanism Contracts?
Authors: Klijn Anne‐Marie , Gupta Joyeeta , Nijboer Anita
Published: October 2009

This article argues that a current trend in global sustainable development governance is actively to engage the private sector in participating in the process of implementing global and national policy goals. This trend is based on the notion that the private sector has the ideas, technologies and resources at its disposal that can be channelled to addressing global environmental challenges. This new trend does not, however, take into account the past and present implications of private sector investment in fields such as mining and forestry. Nor does it closely examine how private sector rules will subsequently infiltrate and govern environmental management. On the basis of an examination of current policy developments and contracts in the area of environmental management and their implications for developing countries, this article argues in favour of establishing an authority that oversees the legitimacy and legality of these new contracts, especially in, but not limited to, the area of climate change.
Still not in Force: Should States Support the 1997 UN Watercourses Convention?
Authors: Rieu‐Clarke Alistair , Loures Flavia Rocha
Published: October 2009

On 21 May 1997, at the UN General Assembly, an overwhelming majority of States voted for the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non‐Navigational Uses of International Watercourses – a global overarching framework governing the rights and duties of States sharing freshwater systems. To date, the Convention counts 17 Contracting States – 18 short of the number required for entry into force. This article examines whether and why States should support the Convention towards ensuring its entry into force. We first look at the governance of international watercourses in order to illustrate the relevance of the Convention. The article also examines the Convention's drafting and negotiation process, the subsequent practice of States, some possible reasons slowing down ratifications and the likelihood of entry into force in the foreseeable future. Noting the widespread State support for the Convention in 1997, we conclude that, while various reasons have possibly prevented that support from translating into entry into force, the need for an effective UN Watercourses Convention has not diminished. In view of current human and environmental threats to the world's water resources, coupled with the poor governance of transboundary watersheds, the potential role that the Convention could play, once in force and widely ratified, as discussed, may in fact be more critical than ever.
Detooling The Language of the Master's House: The Case of Those “Nuclear Things”
Authors: Hallett Brien , Summy Ralph
Published: October 2009

The tool of language helps to shape the argument and outcome of a political conflict in much the same way as the availability and selection of tools and materials affect the kind of house a builder will erect. The advocates of abolishing nuclear stockpiles down to absolute zero unwittingly have embraced the same terms or language tools as their opponents. “Banning the bomb” on the basis of its incredibly devastating consequences has failed in part because the antinuclearists have not disavowed the language that authenticates the alternative perspective of the bomb's incredible power. Along with their opponents, they have conjoined the word “nuclear” with the words “weapon” and “war” to create two formidable oxymora that have impaired greatly their ability to escape the lexical trap of the pronuclear mindset of power politics. In this article an argument is advanced for exposing and avoiding these oxymora and for suggesting some alternative terms in order that the abolitionists might reframe the debate in such a way that conventional political and military assumptions about nuclear power can be challenged radically.
Specific repair of aging hair keratin
Authors: Zur Wiesche E. S. , Gassenmeier T. , Fischer D. , Poppe E. , Somfleth P. , Schäfer K. , Körner A.
Published: October 2009

IFSCC Magazine, 11 (2008) (4) 317–320

Winner of the Poster Award at the IFSCC Congress 2008, Barcelona, Spain.

A new method was developed to study aging effects on human hair keratin caused by shampooing, blow drying and sunlight. An automatic multiple process allowed reproducible simulation of the stress of approximately 100 Central European summer days in only 5 working days. Stress‐strain measurements showed a significant weakening of the hair structure due to simulated aging effects. A new keratin active containing peptides identical to those in human hair was developed. The new keratin active penetrates deeply into the cortex cells, which was demonstrated by means of fluorescence microscopy. Aging damage was successfully prevented by strengthening the hair structure.

Keywords: Hair keratin, hair strengthening, intermediate filament, keratin aging simulation, restructuring
Novel retinol‐like actives from parrots feathers
Authors: Rigano L. , Picardo M. , Pini E. , Stradi R. , Meloni M. , Bertelli A. , Benedusi A. , Giuliani G.
Published: October 2009

IFSCC Magazine, 11 (2008) (4) 323–330

Presented as a podium presentation at the 25th IFSCC Congress 2008 in Barcelona, Spain.

Several classes of pigments are responsible for coloration in birds. Melanin pigments most commonly appear in bird feathers and bare parts. They impart black, brown and chestnut hues. Carotenoids are a second group of coloring biochemicals in birds. These two types of pigment‐based coloration are found in nearly every order of extant birds. In contrast, parrots harbor bright‐colored pigments in their feathers, which have different structures. As many colored substances exhibit free‐radical scavenging activity and parrots have quite a long lifespan, the aim of our study was to identify the structures of these substances, attempt their synthesis and study their performance and possible use in cosmetics while overcoming stability problems. Studies were also planned to compare their efficacy with that of known anti‐aging molecules. We were able to identify a structural moiety that could be the basis for a new family of molecules with high functionality. This example could open up the field of research for new functional molecules derived from animal or vegetal metabolism, which so far have been neglected because of their high instability.

Keywords:  Anti‐oxidant, octatrienol, photoaging, radical stability, retinol‐like
Polymer composite principles applied to hair styling gels
Authors: Rafferty D. W. , Zellia J. , Hasman D. , Mullay J.
Published: October 2009

J. Cosmet. Sci.,
59, 497–508 (November/December 2008)

Synopsis

A novel approach is taken to understand the mechanical performance of fixative‐treated hair tresses. Polymer composite principles are applied to explain the performance. Examples are given for polyacrylate‐2 cross‐polymer that show that the choice of neutralizer affects the film properties of anionic acrylic polymers by plasticization or by hardening through ionic (physical) crosslinking. The effect of these changes in the polymer film on the composite properties was determined by mechanical stiffness and high‐humidity curl retention testing. It is shown that both adhesion to the hair and polymer cohesion are important in determining fixative polymer performance. The implications of the results for the formulation of fixative systems are discussed.
DPPH free‐radical scavenging ability, total phenolic content, and chemical composition analysis of forty‐five kinds of essential oils
Authors: Wang H.‐F. , Wang Y.‐K. , Yih K.‐H.
Published: October 2009

J. Cosmet. Sci.,
59, 509–522 (November/December 2008)

Synopsis

Forty‐five kinds of commonly used essential oils were employed to investigate the DPPH (1,1‐diphenyl2‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging ability and total phenolic content of major chemical compositions. The free‐radical scavenging ability and total phenolic content of cinnamon leaf and clove bud essential oils are the best among these essential oils. One‐half milliliter of cinnamon leaf and clove bud essential oils (10 mg mL EtOH) are shown to be 96.74% and 96.12% of the DPPH (2.5ml, 1.52 × 10‐4 M) free‐radical scavenging ability, respectively. Their EC50 (effective concentrations) are 53 and 36 (μg mL‐1). One milligram per milliliter of cinnamon leaf, clove bud, and thyme red essential oils were shown to be 420, 480, and 270 (mg g‐1 of GAE) of total phenolic content, respectively. Eugenol in cinnamon leaf and clove bud essential oils (82.87% and 82.32%, respectively) were analyzed by GC‐MS. It is clear that the amounts of the phenol compounds in essential oils and the DPPH free‐radical scavenging ability are in direct proportion.
Development of a water‐resistant and detergent‐washable powder coated with a stimuli‐responsive polymer and its application to suncare products
Authors: Osawa Tomo , Sogabe Atsushi , Shirao Masayuki , Nishihama Shuji , Kaneda Isamu , Yusa Shin‐ichi
Published: October 2009

IFSCC Magazines, 12 (2009) (1) 3–7

It is generally well known that the surface of an inorganic UV‐protective powder used in a sunscreen formula is treated with a fatty acid or other hydrophobic chemicals to obtain a high water resistance. Due to the resulting strongly hydrophobic surface, the treatment has a clear drawback in that it allows the sunscreen to leave its base components on the skin after washing with regular soap. Therefore, in this study to develop an intelligent sunscreen formula that has a high water resistance and can be washed away easily with regular soap, we focused on a pH‐responsive polymer as the surface‐treatment agent for a UV‐protective powder. Numerous experiments led to the synthesis of the 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid/11‐methacrylamidoundecanoic acid (AMPS/MAU) copolymer, which is hydrophobic in acidic to neutral solution and hydrophilic in basic solution. Titanium dioxide subjected to surface treatment was treated with the AMPS/MAU copolymer showed a high pH‐responsiveness that was similar to that of the polymer. A W/O‐type sunscreen containing the pH‐responsive titanium dioxide showed a high water resistance as well as a high washability with regular soap.

Keywords:  Detergent‐washable, pH‐responsive polymer, pH‐responsive powder, sun care product, water‐resistant
Anti‐inflammatory activity of Pseudopterosins by laser doppler blood flow evaluation
Authors: Dayan Nava , Grove Gary , Sivalenka Rajarajeswari
Published: October 2009

IFSCC Magazines, 12 (2009) (1) 17–29

Pseudopterosins extracted from Caribbean Sea Whip (Pseudopterogorgia elisabethae) were previously shown to inhibit phospholipase A2, an enzyme that functions in the arachidonic acid cascade of inflammation. With an objective to test its in vivo anti‐inflammatory potential, we conducted a screening clinical bioassay using randomized analysis on sixteen panelists. An emulsion containing 0.02% of sea whip extract was applied to the volar forearm of subjects prior to or after an ethyl nicotinate challenge. Blood flow rate at the application site monitored using a laser doppler blood flowmeter served as a measure of inflammation induced by ethyl nicotinate. Upon post‐challenge treatment, sea whip extract reduced blood flow by 35.04% against untreated control and also delayed the blood flow. More pronounced reduction in blood flow, as low as 59.50%, was noted upon pretreatment. This reduction was significant (P < 0.0095). Pretreatment caused not only a delay in onset of inflammation but also a reduction in the peak time of blood flow. This study further substantiates the previously reported in vitro anti‐inflammatory effect of sea whip extract, demonstrating its activity in deep skin layers by affecting blood flow. The preventive application prior to induction of inflammation was more effective when compared to post‐treatment.

Keywords:  Anti‐inflammatory, clinical study, laser doppler blood flowmetry, pseudopterosins
A Hibiscus Abelmoschus seed extract as a protective active ingredient to favour FGF‐2 activity in skin
Authors: Rival D. , Bonnet S. , Sohm B. , Perrier E.
Published: October 2009

Synopsis

In the skin, heparin, heparan sulphate and heparan sulphate proteoglycans control the storage and release of growth factors and protect them from early degradation. We developed a cosmetic active ingredient containing Hibiscus Abelmoschus seed extract (trade name Linefactor™) that can maintain the FGF‐2 content in the skin by mimicking the protective effect of heparan sulphate proteoglycans. By preventing the natural degradation of FGF‐2, Hibiscus Abelmoschus seed extract maintains the bioavailability of this growth factor for its target cells, i.e. skin fibroblasts. Our in vitro evaluations showed that this ingredient exhibited heparan sulphate‐like properties and dose‐dependently protected FGF‐2 from thermal degradation. We could also show that, in turn, the protected FGF‐2 could stimulate the synthesis of sulphated GAGs, the natural protective molecules for FGF‐2, thus providing a double protection. Finally, the in vitro results were confirmed in vivo thanks to a clinical study in which skin biomechanical properties and reduction in wrinkles were assessed.
Increased intranuclear matrix metalloproteinase activity in neurons interferes with oxidative DNA repair in focal cerebral ischemia
Authors: Yang Yi , Candelario‐Jalil Eduardo , Thompson Jeffrey F. , Cuadrado Eloy , Estrada Eduardo Y. , Rosell Anna , Montaner Joan , Rosenberg Gary A.
Published: October 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 134–149.

Increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity is implicated in proteolysis of extracellular matrix in ischemic stroke. We recently observed intranuclear MMP activity in ischemic brain neurons at early reperfusion, suggesting a possible role in nuclear matrix proteolysis. Nuclear proteins, poly‐ADP‐ribose polymerase‐1 (PARP‐1) and X‐ray cross‐complementary factor 1 (XRCC1), as well as DNA repair enzymes, are important in DNA fragmentation and cell apoptosis. We hypothesized that intranuclear MMP activity facilitates oxidative injury in neurons during early ischemic insult by cleaving PARP‐1 and XRCC1, interfering with DNA repair. We induced a 90‐min middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats. Increase activity of MMP‐2 and ‐9, detected in the ischemic neuronal nuclei at 3 h, was associated with DNA fragmentation at 24 and 48 h reperfusion. The intranuclear MMPs cleaved PARP‐1. Treatment of the rats with a broad‐spectrum MMP inhibitor, BB1101, significantly attenuated ischemia‐induced PARP‐1 cleavage, increasing its activity. Degradation of XRCC1 caused by ischemic insult in rat brain was also significantly attenuated by BB1101. We found elevation of oxidized DNA, apurinic/apyrimidinic sites, and 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine, in ischemic brain cells at 3 h reperfusion. BB1101 markedly attenuated the early increase of oxidized DNA. Using tissue from stroke patients, we found increased intranuclear MMP expression. Our data suggest that intranuclear MMP activity cleaves PARP‐1 and XRCC1, interfering with oxidative DNA repair. This novel role for MMPs could contribute to neuronal apoptosis in ischemic injuries.
Early undernutrition increases glycogen content and reduces the activated forms of GSK3, AMPK, p38 MAPK, and JNK in the cerebral cortex of suckling rats
Authors: Lizárraga‐Mollinedo Esther , Fernández‐Millán Elisa , De Miguel‐Santos Laura , Martínez‐Honduvilla Carlos José , Alvarez Carmen , Escrivá Fernando
Published: October 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 123–133.

Exposure to maternal undernutrition during development increases the risk for neurological and cognitive defects. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms involved. Peripheral responses to insulin are increased following food‐restriction, thus the possibility arises that brain insulin actions are affected by undernutrition, causing damages to the higher cerebral functions. In this study, we examined the effects of early undernutriton on molecular targets of insulin actions such as glucose transporters, glycogen, glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK3) and mitogen‐activated protein kinases, as well as proteins involved in apoptosis in the cortex from 10‐day‐old rats. We show that undernutrition results in an enhanced glycogen content which is confined to astrocytes, according to our histochemical approaches. Cortical phospho‐GSK3 is also increased. In addition to glycogen synthesis, GSK3 regulates crucial cellular processes. Therefore, its elevated degree of phosphorylation may have an impact on these processes and, consequently, on the cortical development. Phospho‐p38 and both total JNK and phospho‐JNK, which regulate apoptosis, are reduced following undernutrition. However, cleaved caspase 3 is not altered, which suggests that this condition does not induce extensive modifications to the cortical apoptosis. Thus, our results indicate that undernutrition gives rise to molecular alterations that may have repercussions on cerebral cortex development and functions.