bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SONYA & RASKÓLNIKOV – TOWARDS AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE ORIGIN OF BARTH'S DOCTRINE OF SIN AND GRACE1
Authors: BRAZIER P. H.
Published: April 2008

This paper examines the origin of Barth's understanding of sin and grace in his reading of Dostoevsky in 1915. It is essentially the theological portrait of Sonya & Raskólnikov (Crime & Punishment) that regrounds Barth's understanding of sin and grace in an orthodox forensic model, which in turn develops into the mature doctrine we see in Die Kirchliche Dogmatik IV. The young Barth is exposed to many influences in his move away from nineteenth‐century neo‐Protestant liberal theology (characterized by a sociological‐humanistic model of sin). Mediated by his theological colleague Eduard Thurneysen, Dostoevsky is one such influence amongst many. Barth's reading has a profound effect on him: sin becomes defined by and in relation to God –eritis sicut deus. This sublapsarian perspective can then be discerned in his seminal paper ‘Die Gerechtigkeit Gottes’, delivered within months of his reading of Crime & Punishment, particularly in the Dostoevsky motif of the Tower of Babel (this reading occurs five to seven years prior to the generally accepted period of the influence of Dostoevsky). Barth's understanding then develops through his study of Romans (Der Römerbrief ) and by rediscovering a traditional approach in the Reformed Confessions in the 1920s; however, it is his reading of Crime and Punishment that initiates this model of sin and grace.
THE DOCTRINE OF CREATION
Authors: CHARLTON WILLIAM
Published: April 2008

Synopsis: We are often told that the doctrine of creation has not been refuted by modern science, but we cannot judge whether that is true unless we know exactly what the doctrine is, and that is seldom explained. I first offer an interpretation of the doctrine, then defend this as an interpretation, and finally argue that we should use not scientific but forensic methods to decide whether the doctrine, so interpreted, is true.
PRIEST AND NAGEL ON BEING SOMEONE: A REFUTATION OF PHYSICALISM
Authors: GÖCKE BENEDIKT PAUL
Published: April 2008

Physicalism entails that a possible world which is a minimal physical duplicate of the actual world be a duplicate simpliciter of the actual world. Because what I really am is not a particular human being, there exists a minimal physical duplicate of the actual world which is not a duplicate simpliciter of the actual world. Therefore, physicalism is false.
CIPHERS OF TRANSCENDENCE: COGNITIVE AESTHETICS IN SCIENCE
Authors: HUNT ANDREW N.
Published: April 2008

Modern epistemology is reluctant to presume the objectivity of a mental event. Because a valid theory of knowledge is subjected to objective standards of rationality, the invocation of a transcendent ground of existence termed ‘god’ is deemed extra‐systematic. This reference lacks warrant because it fails to satisfy the impartial criteria methodologically basic to contemporary paradigms of knowledge. Still the biochemist Arthur Peacocke (1924–2006) claimed defensible public truth for an ultimate reality based on the ‘supremely’ rational nature of existence; it is the further contention of this paper that there are intelligible patterns to the universe whose discovery is incapable of ‘objective’ explanation. By failing to meet these criteria, however, they do not fall into irrationality, still less do they disqualify or exclude themselves from public consideration; quite the opposite. There are perhaps depths to human experience then, including science, to which an existentialist epistemology is appropriate. In this connection the philosophy of Karl Jaspers (1883–1969) provides a compelling account of the transition of scientific research into aesthetics and theological discourse.
Habitat selection and reproductive success of Ortolan Buntings Emberiza hortulana on farmland in central Sweden – the importance of habitat heterogeneity
Authors: BERG ÅKE
Published: April 2008

Many granivorous birds have shown severe population declines in Europe during recent decades. The aim of the present study was to analyse habitat preferences and reproductive success of one such species, the Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana, in different farmland habitats in south‐central Sweden. Four seemingly different land‐use types were preferred: permanent set‐asides, short rotation coppice, and grazed and unmanaged semi‐natural pastures. Territories and random sites differed considerably in the proportion of these preferred land‐use types; 39% of territories had > 70% preferred habitat (at the 100‐m scale) compared to 5% of random sites. In contrast, 22% of territories and 65% of random sites had no preferred habitats. All the preferred habitats had heterogeneous ground vegetation characterized by patches with bare ground, or at least sparse ground vegetation, intermixed with patches with taller vegetation. Ortolan Buntings also preferred a heterogeneous habitat structure with occurrence of field islets, shrubby edges, barns and electric wires, which could act as song posts or suitable nest‐sites, in 88% of territories. At a larger (1‐km square) scale, territories occupied by pairs aggregated strongly in areas with high proportions of preferred habitats. The number of territories with single males correlated positively with the number of pairs, which suggests that conspecific attraction may influence territory distribution. No measured habitat factors were related to reproductive success. However, due to habitat preferences and the higher proportion of paired males in one habitat type (set‐aside), the production of young (fledglings/ha) is expected to be higher in set‐asides, as well as in short‐rotation coppices and semi‐natural pastures. Thus, these habitats are important for the conservation of the Ortolan Bunting. Large areas with habitat structures such as field islets are especially important because the Ortolan Bunting breeds in aggregations in these areas.
From Involution to Revolution in Mexico: Liberal Development, Patriarchy, and Social Violence in the Central Highlands, 1870–1915
Authors: Tutino John
Published: April 2008

Forces loyal to Emiliano Zapata rose to demand land and community autonomy in the revolution that brought destruction and transformation to Mexico after 1910. Men fought to right historic wrongs, land losses that began in the colonial era and political exclusions that mounted during the nineteenth century. Yet those historic grievances were already deeply felt and clearly expressed during the political and social conflicts of the 1860s and 1870s. Revolutionary mobilization did not surge until 1911, after three decades of political stability and commercial development under the authoritarian liberal regime of Porfirio Díaz. This article examines the social consequences of that dynamic liberal development in the highland basins south of Mexico City, the Zapatista heartland after 1910. It argues that population growth, land concentration, and mechanization fueled a commercial expansion that led to proliferating insecurities among the rural majority, insecurities lived by young men as threats to the patriarchal roles they presumed their birthright – their one advantage in communities defined by dependence and hard labor. The first result was a rising tide of violent crime within families and communities during decades of political stability. Then, after the political break of 1910, villagers refocused their rage outward in revolutionary assaults on those who presumed to rule and profit. Young men from communities south of Mexico City turned to revolution only after successful liberal development undermined their chances to live as patriarchs, even as dependent laboring patriarchs. They fought for land, community – and patriarchy.
The Construction of Normal Expectations
Authors: Quitzau Maj‐Britt , Røpke Inge
Published: April 2008

The gradual upward changes of standards in normal everyday life have significant environmental implications, and it is therefore important to study how these changes come about. The intention of the article is to analyze the social construction of normal expectations through a case study. The case concerns the present boom in bathroom renovations in Denmark, which offers an excellent opportunity to study the interplay between a wide variety of consumption drivers and social changes pointing toward long‐term changes of normal expectations regarding bathroom standards. The study is problem‐oriented and transdisciplinary and draws on a wide range of sociological, anthropological, and economic theories. The empirical basis comprises a combination of statistics, a review of magazine and media coverage, visits to exhibitions, and qualitative interviews. A variety of consumption drivers are identified. Among the drivers are the increasing importance of the home as a core identity project and a symbol of the unity of the family, the opportunities for creative work, the convenience of more grooming capacity during the busy family's rush hours, the perceived need for retreat and indulgence in a hectic everyday life, and the increased focus on body care and fitness. The contours of the emerging normal expectations are outlined and discussed in an environmental perspective.
Quality control of recovered plasma for fractionation: an extensive Italian study
Authors: Grazzini Giuliano , Rossi Giuseppe , Rafanelli Daniela , Gambelli Davide , Farina Claudio , Mori Filippo , Zucchelli Paolo , Marchiori Giorgio , Breda Antonio , Liumbruno Giancarlo Maria
Published: April 2008

BACKGROUND: This study was aimed at obtaining significant information on the quality of whole‐blood plasma (WBP) delivered to a private pharmaceutical company by the blood transfusion centers (BTCs) of 10 Italian regions.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A statistical sampling plan of plasma units took into account the contribution each selected blood transfusion center, belonging to the 10 regions, made to the plasma pool annually delivered to the pharmaceutical company. A total of 1787 plasma units were selected for coagulation Factor VIII (FVIII:C) and Factor VIII antigen (FVIII:Ag) analysis.

RESULTS: The FVIII:C mean value was 0.99 IU per mL; it was significantly lower in O units (0.86 IU/mL) than in non‐O units (1.08 IU/mL). The mean value of FVIII:Ag was 0.90 IU per mL; it was significantly lower in O units (0.78 IU/mL) than in non‐O units (0.99 IU/mL). In units with a FVIII:C level of less than 0.70 IU per mL, the FVIII:Ag mean value (0.62 IU/mL) was higher in comparison to the FVIII:C mean value (0.57 IU/mL). Instead, in the units with a FVIII:C level of at least 0.70 IU per mL, the mean level of FVIII:C (1.08 IU/mL) was higher than that of FVIII:Ag (0.96 IU/mL).

CONCLUSIONS: The mean value of FVIII:C (0.99 IU/mL) in whole‐blood plasma produced by the 10 Italian regions is higher than that reported in other studies. A total of 83.1 percent of units have a FVIII:C level of at least 0.70 IU per mL. The mean level of FVIII:Ag is lower than that of FVIII:C. FVIII:Ag is higher in those units with a FVIII:C level of less than 0.70 IU per mL, while it gradually decreases as FVIII:C exceeds 0.70 IU per mL, thus showing a greater resistance to handling of plasma in the production steps mostly affecting FVIII:C stability.
Short‐term growth in children with allergic rhinitis treated with oral antihistamine, depot and intranasal glucocorticosteroids
Authors: Wolthers Ole D. , Pedersen Søren
Published: April 2008

Short‐term growth was studied during the grass pollen season with weekly knemometry in 44 schoolchildren with allergic rhinitis. The design was a randomized, parallel group study. After a four‐weeks run‐in period, the children were allocated to six weeks' treatment with either a single im injection of methylprednisolone acetate 60 mg at the beginning of the period, intranasal budesonide 200 μg bid (aerosol spray) or terfenadine tablets 60 mg daily. Treatment with methylprednisolone acetate was open, whereas treatment with budesonide and terfenadine was double‐blinded. Twelve children in the methylprednisolone acetate group, 11 in the budesonide group and 12 in the terfenadine group completed the study. Compared with the run‐in period, treatment with methylprednisolone acetate and budesonide (run‐in growth velocities 0.46 and 0.59 mm/week, respectively) was associated with a reduction in mean lower leg growth velocity of 0.28 and 0.54 mm/week (p<0.01, t = 3.3, 95% confidence interval 0.09–0.47 mm/week; and p < 0.001, t = 6.1, 95% confidence interval 0.34–0.72 mm/ week, respectively). Terfenadine (run‐in and treatment mean growth velocity 0.35 and 0.51 mm/week) did not influence lower leg growth significantly. Short‐term lower leg growth is suppressed in children with allergic rhinitis treated with intranasal and depot steroids in the doses investigated. No conclusions can be drawn with respect to long‐term statural growth.
Pubertal linear growth of Indian girls adopted in Sweden
Authors: Proos LA , Karlberg J. , Hofvander Y. , Tuvemo T.
Published: April 2008

Pubertal linear growth in 66 adopted Indian girls was studied. The infancy‐childhood‐puberty standard was used, since it is applicable to Indian girls, and enables determination of the onset and height gain of the pubertal growth phase in an individual. At arrival in Sweden, mean height was —2.8 SDS. Despite rapid catch‐up growth, the girls were still below the reference mean (—0.8 SDS) at the onset of the pubertal growth spurt, which occurred approximately 1.5 years earlier than in Swedish girls and also earlier than in Indian girls. The pubertal height gain, however, was equivalent to that in Swedish girls with similar timing of puberty. The short final height found in some of these girls appears to be related to shortness prior to puberty and to very early onset of an otherwise normal pubertal growth component.
Skin microcirculation in neonatal polycythaemia and effects of haemodilution. Interaction between haematocrit, vasomotor activity and perfusion
Authors: Norman M. , Fagrell B. , Herin P.
Published: April 2008

The cutaneous microcirculation was investigated before and 2–4 h after haemodilution in 13 newborn infants with polycythaemia. Skin microvascular perfusion was related to the haematocrit and to the presence of rhythmical changes in blood flow, reflecting vasomotor activity. The microcirculation was studied with a laser Doppler fluxmeter in a superficial microvascular bed represented by the dorsal hand skin. In five subjects, it was possible to combine laser Doppler flux measurements with microscopic quantitations of blood cell velocity in single, nailfold capillaries. In neonates less than 12 h postnatal age (n= 6), microvascular perfusion was only one‐third that of the equally polycythaemic, but older infants (n= 7, p < 0.01). The higher perfusion in the older neonates with polycythaemia was associated with rhythmical variations in blood flow (3–5 cycles/min). There was no difference in skin temperature, blood pressure or heart rate between the two age groups. After haemodilution, the younger infants had developed rhythmical blood flow variations with the same characteristics as in the older group, in which the flow pattern was unchanged. In association, the laser Doppler flux had increased 304% in the younger and 73% in the older group (median values, p<0.05 versus pretreatment values). The post‐treatment change in laser Doppler flux corresponded to an increase in nailfold capillary blood cell velocity from 0.08 (0.02–0.23) mmjs prior to haemodilution to 0.21 (0.07–0.32) mmjs after treatment (n = 5, p < 0.05). Skin microcirculatory effects of neonatal polycythaemia and haemodilution vary in relation to vasomotor activity.
Effect of different chloride infusion rates on plasma base excess during neonatal parenteral nutrition
Authors: Richards CE , Drayton M. , Jenkins H. , Peters TJ
Published: April 2008

Richards CE, Drayton M, Jenkins H, Peters TJ. Effect of different chloride infusion rates on plasma base excess during neonatal parenteral nutrition. Acta Pædiatr 1993;82:678–82. Stockholm. ISSN 0803–5253

Routine biochemical monitoring of parenterally fed newborn infants revealed plasma chloride levels which were higher than widely quoted reference ranges. The parenteral nutrition solutions were reformulated to reduce the chloride infusion rate. In a historically controlled study, 28 infants receiving the original formulation were compared with 31 infants receiving the new formulation. The mean plasma chloride level was 4.8 mmol/l lower in the new formulation group than in the original formulation group (95% confidence interval 2.5–7.2 mmol/l). The mean base excess level was 3.1 mmol/l higher in the new formulation group than in the original formulation group (95% confidence interval 1.9–4.8 mmol/l). A reduction in the chloride load by using acetate salts can be safely achieved and may decrease the plasma chloride levels and decrease acidosis during the first seven days of life.
Lipoprotein alterations in children with bacterial meningitis
Authors: Henter Jan‐Inge , Carlson Lars A. , Hansson Mona , Nilsson‐Ehle Peter , Örtqvist Eva
Published: April 2008

Abnormalities in serum lipids, including hypertriglycerideinia, are common during infectious disorders. However, the lipoprotein pattern during infections, particularly in children, has been investigated to only a limited extent. We have monitored alterations in serum lipoproteins in eight children with a severe baclcrial infcction (meningitis) by a quantitating method measuring cholesterol and triglyccrides in each major class. The levels of triglyccrides in serum and in low‐density lipoproteins were markedly elevated during the infection, whereas the amount of cholesterol in high‐density lipoprotcins was decreased. The cholesterol to triglyceride ratio was decreased in low‐, as well as in high‐density lipoproteins. These lipoprotein abnormalities may, at least in part, be explained by a depressed lipolytic activity of lipoprotein lipasc, the key enzyme for removal of triglycerides in man. Serum triglycerides and the levels of cholesterol in high‐density lipoproteins, as well as the ratio between these parameters, may be used as indicators of inflammatory activity.
RNAi‐mediated knockdown of juvenile hormone acid O‐methyltransferase gene causes precocious metamorphosis in the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Minakuchi Chieka , Namiki Toshiki , Yoshiyama Michiyo , Shinoda Tetsuro
Published: April 2008

Juvenile hormone controls the timing of insect metamorphosis. As a final step of juvenile hormone biosynthesis, juvenile hormone acid O‐methyltransferase (JHAMT) transfers the methyl group from S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine to the carboxyl group of farnesoic acid and juvenile hormone acid. The developmental expression profiles of JHAMT mRNA in the silkworm Bombyx mori and the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster suggest that the suppression of JHAMT transcription is critical for the induction of larval–pupal metamorphosis, but genetic evidence for JHAMT function in vivo is missing. In this study, we identified three methyltransferase genes in the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum (TcMT1, TcMT2 and TcMT3) that are homologous to JHAMT of Bombyx and Drosophila. Of these three methyltransferase genes, TcMT3 mRNA was present continuously from the embryonic stage to the final larval instar, became undetectable before pupation, and increased again in the adult stage. TcMT3 mRNA was localized in the larval corpora allata. Recombinant TcMT3 protein methylated farnesoic acid and juvenile hormone III acid, but TcMT1 and TcMT2 proteins did not. Furthermore, RNA interference‐mediated knockdown of TcMT3 in the larval stage resulted in precocious larval–pupal metamorphosis, whereas knockdown of either TcMT1 or TcMT2 showed no visible effects on metamorphosis. Importantly, precocious metamorphosis caused by TcMT3 RNA interference was rescued by an application of a juvenile hormone mimic, methoprene. Together, these results demonstrate that TcMT3 encodes a functional JHAMT gene that is essential for juvenile hormone biosynthesis and for the maintenance of larval status.
Role of glutaredoxin 2 and cytosolic thioredoxins in cysteinyl‐based redox modification of the 20S proteasome
Authors: Silva Gustavo M. , Netto Luis E.S. , Discola Karen F. , Piassa‐Filho Gilberto M. , Pimenta Daniel C. , Bárcena José A. , Demasi Marilene
Published: April 2008

The yeast 20S proteasome is subject to sulfhydryl redox alterations, such as the oxidation of cysteine residues (Cys‐SH) into cysteine sulfenic acid (Cys‐SOH), followed by S‐glutathionylation (Cys‐S‐SG). Proteasome S‐glutathionylation promotes partial loss of chymotrypsin‐like activity and post‐acidic cleavage without alteration of the trypsin‐like proteasomal activity. Here we show that the 20S proteasome purified from stationary‐phase cells was natively S‐glutathionylated. Moreover, recombinant glutaredoxin 2 removes glutathione from natively orin vitroS‐glutathionylated 20S proteasome, allowing the recovery of chymotrypsin‐like activity and post‐acidic cleavage. Glutaredoxin 2 deglutathionylase activity was dependent on its entry into the core particle, as demonstrated by stimulating S‐glutathionylated proteasome opening. Under these conditions, deglutathionylation of the 20S proteasome and glutaredoxin 2 degradation were increased when compared to non‐stimulated samples. Glutaredoxin 2 fragmentation by the 20S proteasome was evaluated by SDS–PAGE and mass spectrometry, and S‐glutathionylation was evaluated by either western blot analyses with anti‐glutathione IgG or by spectrophotometry with the thiol reactant 7‐chloro‐4‐nitrobenzo‐2‐oxa‐1,3‐diazole. It was also observedin vivothat glutaredoxin 2 was ubiquitinated in cellular extracts of yeast cells grown in glucose‐containing medium. Other cytoplasmic oxido‐reductases, namely thioredoxins 1 and 2, were also active in 20S proteasome deglutathionylation by a similar mechanism. These results indicate for the first time that 20S proteasome cysteinyl redox modification is a regulated mechanism coupled to enzymatic deglutathionylase activity.
XMM-Newton discovery of transient X-ray pulsar in NGC 1313
Authors: Trudolyubov S. P.
Published: April 2008

We report on the discovery and analysis of the transient X-ray pulsar XMMU J031747.5−663010 detected in the 2004 November 23 XMM-Newton observation of the spiral galaxy NGC 1313. The X-ray source exhibits pulsations with a period P∼ 765.6 s and a nearly sinusoidal pulse shape and pulsed fraction ∼38 per cent in the 0.3−7 keV energy range. The X-ray spectrum of XMMU J031747.5−663010 is hard and well fitted with an absorbed simple power law of photon index Γ∼ 1.5 in the 0.3–7 keV energy band. The X-ray properties of the source and the absence of an optical/ultraviolet counterpart brighter than 20 mag allow us to identify XMMU J031747.5−663010 as an accreting X-ray pulsar located in NGC 1313. The estimated absorbed 0.3–7 keV luminosity of the source LX∼ 1.6 × 1039 erg s−1, makes it one of the brightest X-ray pulsars known. Based on the relatively long pulse period and transient behaviour of the source, we classify it as a Be binary X-ray pulsar candidate. XMMU J031747.5−663010 is the second X-ray pulsar detected outside the local group, after transient 18 s pulsating source CXOU J073709.1+653544 discovered in the nearby spiral galaxy NGC 2403.
Artificial Recharge Through a Thick, Heterogeneous Unsaturated Zone
Authors: Izbicki John A. , Flint Alan L. , Stamos Christina L.
Published: April 2008

Thick, heterogeneous unsaturated zones away from large streams in desert areas have not previously been considered suitable for artificial recharge from ponds. To test the potential for recharge in these settings, 1.3 × 106 m3 of water was infiltrated through a 0.36‐ha pond along Oro Grande Wash near Victorville, California, between October 2002 and January 2006. The pond overlies a regional pumping depression 117 m below land surface and is located where thickness and permeability of unsaturated deposits allowed infiltration and saturated alluvial deposits were sufficiently permeable to allow recovery of water. Because large changes in water levels caused by nearby pumping would obscure arrival of water at the water table, downward movement of water was measured using sensors in the unsaturated zone. The downward rate of water movement was initially as high as 6 m/d and decreased with depth to 0.07 m/d; the initial time to reach the water table was 3 years. After the unsaturated zone was wetted, water reached the water table in 1 year. Soluble salts and nitrate moved readily with the infiltrated water, whereas arsenic and chromium were less mobile. Numerical simulations done using the computer program TOUGH2 duplicated the downward rate of water movement, accumulation of water on perched zones, and its arrival at the water table. Assuming 10 × 106 m3 of recharge annually for 20 years, a regional ground water flow model predicted water level rises of 30 m beneath the ponds, and rises exceeding 3 m in most wells serving the nearby urban area.
Not in the Heavens: The Premodern Roots of Jewish Secularism
Authors: Biale David
Published: April 2008

The relationship between religion and secularism has become a central question in the study of religion. But secularism is just as diverse as religion. This article treats Jewish secularism as a phenomenon with its own unique characteristics derived in part from the religious tradition against which it revolted. Within premodern Judaism – the Bible, Talmud, and medieval philosophy – one finds precursors to modern secular ideas. The article demonstrates how the cardinal categories of Judaism invented by modern religious thinkers – God, Torah, and Israel – were adopted by secular Jews, such as Baruch Spinoza, emptied of traditional meaning and turned into a ‘secular theology’.
Increased Melanogenesis is a Risk Factor for Oxidative DNA Damage— Study on Cultured Melanocytes and Atypical Nevus Cells†
Authors: Smit Nico P. M. , Van Nieuwpoort Frans A. , Marrot Laurent , Out Coby , Poorthuis Ben , Van Pelt Hans , Meunier Jean‐Roch , Pavel Stan
Published: April 2008

Melanin synthesis is an oxygen‐dependent process that acts as a potential source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) inside pigment‐forming cells. The synthesis of the lighter variant of melanin, pheomelanin, consumes cysteine and this may limit the capacity of the cellular antioxidative defense. We show that tyrosine‐induced melanogenesis in cultured normal human melanocytes (NHM) is accompanied by increased production of ROS and decreased concentration of intracellular glutathione. Clinical atypical (dysplastic) nevi (DN) regularly contain more melanin than do normal melanocytes (MC). We also show that in these cultured DN cells three out of four exhibit elevated synthesis of pheomelanin and this is accompanied by their early senescence. By using various redox‐sensitive molecular probes, we demonstrate that cultured DN cells produce significantly more ROS than do normal MC from the same donor. Our experiments employing single‐cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay) usually reveal higher fragmentation of DNA in DN cells than in normal MC. Even if in some cases the normal alkaline comet assay shows no differences in DNA fragmentation between DN cells and normal MC, the use of the comet assay with formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase can disclose that the DNA of the cultured DN cells harbor more oxidative damage than the DNA of normal MC from the same person.
Modulation of Psoralen DNA Crosslinking Kinetics Associated with a Triplex‐forming Oligonucleotide
Authors: Oh Dennis H. , Suzara Vincent , Krishnan Rajagopal
Published: April 2008

A triplex‐forming oligonucleotide (TFO), HPRT3, conjugated to a psoralen derivative, was designed to target a psoralen reaction site within the HPRT gene. HPRT3 bound with high affinity to a synthetic duplex target sequence. At a uniform UVA radiation dose, the ratio of psoralen monoadducts (MA) to interstrand crosslinks decreased and inverted with increasing TFO concentration. As the TFO concentration increased from 10 nm to 10 μm, the efficiency of psoralen MA formation remained relatively constant but the efficiency of interstrand crosslink formation increased several‐fold. Neither shortening the TFO to reduce its dissociation constant nor altering the DNA sequences flanking the TFO binding site altered the concentration dependence of MA and crosslink yields. The psoralen photokinetics associated with 10 nm HPRT3 converted to those associated with 10 μm HPRT3 with the addition of other unrelated TFOs at 10 μm that do not specifically interact with the HPRT3 target sequence. Glycerol at concentrations of 0.5% (vol/vol) or higher also mimicked high TFO concentrations in enhancing crosslink formation. These results demonstrate that while psoralen may be targeted to react at a particular sequence by TFOs, photoreactivity associated with triplex formation is also modulated by sequence‐independent factors that may affect the local macromolecular environment.
The Extent of DNA Deformation in DNA Photolyase– Substrate Complexes: A Solution State Fluorescence Study
Authors: Yang Kongsheng , Stanley Robert J.
Published: April 2008

Cyclobutylpyrimidine dimers (CPDs) are the major UV photoproduct formed in DNA containing adjacent pyrimidines. These lesions can be repaired by DNA photolyase, a flavoprotein that utilizes blue light in a direct reversal of the cyclobutane ring. Previous studies have shown that the CPD is base flipped into the protein, with concomitant disruption of the substrate around the CPD. In this study, we use a fluorescent cytidine analog, pyrrolo‐dC (PC), to probe how far base flipping propagates along the duplex. From these measurements, the degree of base destacking in the two bases flanking the adenines opposing the CPD appears to be minimal, which was consistent with the protein:substrate crystal structure. Fluorescence‐detected melting temperatures for duplexes with and without a CPD were obtained, suggesting that a 5′‐pyrimidine‐PC‐purine‐3′ motif is more stable than the 5′‐purine‐PC‐pyrimidine‐3′ motif. This stability trend was reflected in the fluorescence intensities of ss‐PC oligos but not for duplexes. The melting point depression due to the PC probe was found to be comparable to other popular fluorescent base analogs.
The Use of Commercially Available Personal UV‐meters Does Cause Less Safe Tanning Habits: A Randomized‐controlled Trial
Authors: Carli Paolo , Crocetti Emanuele , Chiarugi Alessandra , Salvini Camilla , Nardini Paolo , Zipoli Gaetano , Simeone Emilio
Published: April 2008

UV Index information is currently recommended as a vehicle to raise public awareness about the risk of sun‐exposure. It remains unknown to what extent this information can change personal sun‐protective behavior. The aim of the study was to analyze the effects of UV‐Index (UV‐I) information provided by low cost, commercially available UV‐I sensors on major indicators of sun‐tanning behavior. A randomized‐controlled trial was carried out on 94 healthy volunteers aged 21–23 years. After the exclusion of subjects with photosensitive disorders (n = 3), 91 subjects were randomized in two arms after stratification based on phototype and sex. Both arms received a diary to be filled every day with a log of intentional sun‐exposure during summer. Subjects in the intervention group also received a commercially available UV‐I sensor. The UV‐I sensors were switched on and the UV‐value was recorded in 77% of days with sun‐exposure. During days of sun‐exposure, subjects randomized to the intervention group had longer average time of sun‐exposure (227.7 vs 208.7 min per day, P = 0.003), also between noon and 4 pm (P < 0.001), and less frequently adopted sun protective measures than controls (hat [6.4%vs 10.2%, P = 0.007], sunglasses [23.9%vs 30.8%, P = 0.003], sunscreen [41.4%vs 47.2%, P = 0.02]) and they experienced more frequent sunburns (27.8%vs 21.5%, P = 0.004). The odd ratio of sunburns was 1.60 for subjects in the intervention group compared with controls (after adjustment for sex, sunscreen use and skin type). The mean UV‐I value recorded by volunteers was lower (5.6 [SD ± 0.9]) than that (7.3 [SD ± 0.46]) recorded by a professional instrument in the same period at the same latitude. Poststudy laboratory tests showed that the sensor was able to detect only about 60% of the solar diffuse radiation. The use of UV‐I sensors changed the sun protective behavior of sunbathers in the direction of less use of sun protective measures. One possible explanation is that the low cost UV‐meters may have functioned incorrectly and under‐reported UV exposure. This may have led to an underestimation of UV‐I values, erroneously reassuring subjects and causing a less protective sunbathing behavior. Another hypothesis relies on a cognitive pitfall in the subjects’ dealing with intermediate UV‐I values, as they may have been discouraged in the use of sunscreen as they did not feel that they had yet been exposed to very harmful UV radiation.
Photodynamic Therapy of Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer with Topical Hypericum perforatum Extract—A Pilot Study
Authors: Kacerovská Denisa , Pizinger Karel , Majer Filip , Šmíd František
Published: April 2008

Hypericin, the photoactive compound of Hypericum perforatum, is probably the most powerful photosensitizer found in nature. This compound has shown high potency in the photodynamic treatment of tumor cells. However, there is only limited knowledge regarding the photodynamic effect of hypericin on nonmelanoma skin cancer cells. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the efficacy of photodynamic therapy with topical application of an extract of H. perforatum in actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and morbus Bowen (carcinoma in situ). The study was carried out on 34 patients—eight with actinic keratoses (AKs), 21 with BCC and five with Bowen’s disease. The extract of H. perforatum was applied on the skin lesions under occlusion and that was followed by irradiation with 75 J cm−2 of red light 2 h later. The treatment was performed weekly for 6 weeks on average. The percentage of complete clinical response was 50% for AKs, 28% in patients with superficial BCC and 40% in patients with Bowen’s disease. There was only a partial remission seen in patients with nodular BCCs. A complete disappearance of tumor cells was found in the histologic preparation of 11% of patients with superficial BCCs and 80% in the patients with Bowen’s disease. All patients complained of burning and pain sensations during irradiation. Although the results of this first clinical trial could be regarded as disappointing, there are still possibilities for improvement. Better preparation of the lesions, enhancement of hypericin delivery and other types of light exposure procedures could significantly improve the clinical outcomes of this relatively inexpensive treatment modality.
A Pilot Study of the Validity of Self‐reported Ultraviolet Radiation Exposure and Sun Protection Practices Among Lifeguards, Parents and Children
Authors: O’Riordan David L. , Glanz Karen , Gies Peter , Elliott Tom
Published: April 2008

Outdoor recreation settings, such as swimming pools, provide a promising venue to assess UVR exposure and sun protection practices among individuals who are minimally clothed and exposed to potentially high levels of UVR. Most studies assessing sun exposure/protection practices rely on self‐reported data, which are subject to bias. The aim of this study was to establish the feasibility of conducting a multimethod study to examine the validity of self‐reported measures within a swimming pool setting. Data were collected from 27 lifeguards, children and parents in Hawaii. Each participant filled out a survey and a 4 day sun habits diary. On two occasions, researchers assessed observable sun protection behaviors (wearing hats, shirts, sunglasses), swabbed the skin to detect the presence of sunscreen, and subjects wore polysulphone dosimeters to measure UVR exposure. Overall, observed sun protection behaviors were more highly correlated with diary reports than with survey reports. While lifeguards and children reported spending comparable amounts of time in the sun, dosimeter measures showed that lifeguards received twice as much UVR exposure. This study demonstrated the feasibility of implementing a multimethod validity study within a broader population of swimming pools.
Reaping the Rewards of Diversity: The Role of Identity Integration
Authors: Cheng Chi‐Ying , Sanders Melissa , Sanchez‐Burks Jeffrey , Molina Kristine , Lee Fiona , Darling Emily , Zhao Yu
Published: April 2008

How does diversity affect individuals and the groups in which they are embedded? This article examines this question using recent theory and research on Identity Integration (II). II refers to an individual's perceptions about whether two distinct social identities, or social groups to which individuals belong, are viewed as compatible (high II) or not (low II). A review of extant research suggests that individuals with high II are better at simultaneously accessing multiple identities and identity‐related knowledge and have improved well‐being and social outcomes. Expanding on this work, we argue that individuals who have higher II, and social collectives that foster II within their members, are more likely to reap the benefits of diversity.
Action‐Based Model of Dissonance: A Review of Behavioral, Anterior Cingulate, and Prefrontal Cortical Mechanisms
Authors: Harmon‐Jones Eddie , Harmon‐Jones Cindy
Published: April 2008

Research and theoretical developments on the theory of cognitive dissonance are reviewed. After this critical review, we present the action‐based model of dissonance, which accepts the original theory's proposal that a sufficient cognitive inconsistency causes dissonance and extends the original theory by proposing why cognitive inconsistency prompts dissonance. Finally, we present results from behavioral and physiological experiments examining predictions derived from the action‐based model. In particular, this evidence converges with recent neuroscience evidence in suggesting that the anterior cingulate cortex and left prefrontal cortical region are involved in conflict detection and resolution, respectively.
Fluids of Hard Nonspherical Molecules. I. Higher Virial Coefficients
Authors: Francová Magda , Kolafa Jiří , Morávek Pavel , Labík Stanislav , Malijevský Anatol
Published: April 2008

Virial coefficients of hard prolate spherocylinders and hard homonuclear diatomics are calculated up to the ninth for a number of molecule elongations. The results are fitted to an analytical formula as a function of the elongation.
Pathological and molecular features of adrenocortical carcinoma: an update
Authors: Volante M , Buttigliero C , Greco E , Berruti A , Papotti M
Published: April 2008

The pathological diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC), which is based on gross and microscopic criteria, is subjective. None of the features are absolutely indicative of malignancy, although their combination in a scoring system may correctly identify ACC. The Weiss system, which is currently the most popular, combines nine morphological parameters, of which three are structural (“dark” cytoplasm, diffuse architecture, necrosis), three are cytological (atypia, mitotic count, atypical mitotic figures) and three are related to invasion (of sinusoids, veins and tumour capsule). Although there are strictly defined criteria for each feature, some are straightforward and objective, while others are potentially more problematic (diffuse architecture, necrosis, sinusoidal, venous and capsular invasions). The classification of oncocytic and paediatric adrenocortical tumours is even more challenging, as not all of the above morphological parameters are predictors of malignancy in these tumour types. As an alternative to the morphological approach, a wide array of chromosomal, genetic, molecular and immunohistochemical markers have been tested in ACC to identify reliable diagnostic and prognostic factors. Genetic and epigenetic alterations of p53, IGF-2 and molecules involved in cancer cell invasive properties seem the most promising. These molecular markers may not only play a role in the biology of these tumours and have prognostic implications, but may also be used as potential targets for treatment. However, these markers are not sufficiently sensitive and specific to replace conventional morphological criteria.
Desquamatia and related atrypid brachiopods from the Frasnian (Upper Devonian) of Bergisches Land, GermanyThis article is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue on the theme The dynamic reef and shelly communities of the Paleozoic. This Special is in honour of our colleague and friend Paul Copper.
Authors: Ma Xueping , Ebbighausen Volker , Becker R. Thomas
Published: April 2008

Tropical shallow-water deposits of the Refrath Formation (topmost Lower to lower part of Middle Frasnian) of the Bergisch Gladbach area (Rhenish Massif, Germany) yielded diverse, well-preserved shelly faunas. New collections show that there are in total over 30 brachiopod species, of which the Atrypida, Rhynchonellida, Spiriferida, and Athyridida orders are the most dominant groups. Serial transverse sections show that Pseudoatrypa schroeteri possesses small dental cavities, and their spiralia have a whorl number ranging from 12–13 in ca. 29–30 mm wide specimens to 15–16 in ca. 32–33 mm wide specimens. Desquamatia (Seratrypa) pectinata has slightly more numerous spiralial whorls, from 14–15 in ca. 27 mm wide specimens to 18 in ca. 35 mm wide specimens. A new species, Desquamatia (Seratrypa) refrathensis , is described based on material from the Refrath Formation in Refrath, near Köln (Cologne), east of the Rhine River, Germany. It includes finely ribbed, longer than wide, moderate- to large-sized shells of Desquamatia , which possess tiny dental cavities to nuclei and 20–21 spiralial whorls in ca. 30 mm wide and long specimens.
Sediment supply versus storm winnowing in the development of muddy and shelly interbeds from the Upper Ordovician of the Cincinnati region, USAThis article is one of a series of papers published in this Special Issue on the themeThe dynamic reef and shelly communities of the Paleozoic. This Special is in honour of our colleague and friend Paul Copper.
Authors: Dattilo Benjamin F. , Brett Carlton E. , Tsujita Cameron J. , Fairhurst Robert
Published: April 2008

Shell-bed development can be a product of complex sedimentological and biological factors. The Upper Ordovician sediments near Cincinnati, Ohio constitute a succession of thinly interbedded shelly carbonates and mudrocks. Despite years of study, the development of Cincinnatian shell beds and metre-scale cycles has, until recently, been attributed solely to storm reworking. This “storm-winnowing model” treats shells as passive sedimentary clasts, ignoring other factors of shell-bed development. A recently proposed alternative is Brett and Algeo’s idea that these shell beds grew during long periods of normally low sedimentation, while most mud accumulated during brief periods of high sedimentation. Under this “episodic starvation model,” any storms would winnow pre-existing muds and shell beds alike. We tested both models in the Edenian–Maysvillian (early to mid Katian) strata of the Cincinnati region by compiling observations on their petrologic, taphonomic, and paleoecologic characteristics. The storm-winnowing model does not explain several observed features that the episodic starvation model does, including (i) storm-related sedimentary structures in mudrocks and limestones; (ii) lack of a sufficiently fossiliferous precursor deposit to winnow; (iii) deep-water faunas in grainstones; (iv) mixed taphonomic conditions of shell-bed fossils; (v) ubiquitous discontinuity surfaces; (vi) carbonate concretion horizons; (vii) unwinnowed shell beds; and (viii) micrite in packstones. Episodic starvation is a superior explanation because it explains all of these features and allows for the complex interplay of other environmental and biological factors that contribute to shell-bed growth. It may also be applicable to other deposits, previously interpreted as tempestites.
Injury-induced expression of cytokeratins 8 and 18 by vascular smooth muscle cells requires concurrent activation of cytoskeletal and growth factor receptors
Authors: Moon Michael C. , Yau Lorraine , Wright Brenda , Zahradka Peter
Published: April 2008

Cytokeratins are not present in the vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of normal arteries, but they are detectable in the VSMCs of atherosclerotic lesions. A correlation between cytokeratin expression and VSMC phenotype is proposed, but an examination of VSMCs after mechanical injury has yet to be performed. Immunohistochemistry was used to monitor proteins in arterial sections. Western blotting enabled quantification of protein levels. Angioplasty of porcine femoral artery in vivo and porcine coronary artery in vitro served as models of vascular injury. Cytokeratins 8 and 18 were expressed by VSMCs in porcine femoral artery lesions 14 days after balloon angioplasty. Cytokeratins were also present in the neointima of porcine coronary artery segments placed into organ culture for 4 days. Cytokeratin expression was decreased in the presence of inhibitors that affect MAP kinase, PI3 kinase, Src kinase, and G protein, but not in the presence of an AT1 receptor antagonist. Cytokeratin expression also occurred when VSMCs were plated onto collagen in the presence of serum. We conclude that mechanical injury induces expression of cytokeratin 8 and 18 both in vitro and in vivo by synthetic VSMCs that migrate into the neointima. Furthermore, cytokeratin expression requires cellular attachment to extracellular matrix proteins in conjunction with mitogenic stimulation.
Prolactin decreases expression of Runx2, osteoprotegerin, and RANKL in primary osteoblasts derived from tibiae of adult female rats
Authors: Charoenphandhu Narattaphol , Teerapornpuntakit Jarinthorn , Methawasin Methajit , Wongdee Kannikar , Thongchote Kanogwun , Krishnamra Nateetip
Published: April 2008

Hyperprolactinemia caused by physiological or pathological conditions, such as those occurring during lactation and prolactinoma, respectively, results in progressive osteopenia. The underlying mechanisms, however, are controversial. Prolactin (PRL) may directly attenuate the functions of osteoblasts, since these bone cells express PRL receptors. The present study therefore aimed to investigate the effects of PRL on the expression of genes related to the osteoblast functions by using quantitative real-time PCR technique. Herein, we used primary osteoblasts that were derived from the tibiae of adult rats and displayed characteristics of differentiated osteoblasts, including in vitro mineralization. Osteoblasts exposed for 48 h to 1000 ng/mL PRL, but not to 10 or 100 ng/mL PRL, showed decreases in the mRNA expression of Runx2, osteoprotegerin (OPG), and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) by 60.49%, 72.74%, and 87.51%, respectively. Nevertheless, PRL did not change the RANKL/OPG ratio, since expression of OPG and RANKL were proportionally decreased. These concentrations of PRL had no effect on the mRNA expression of osteocalcin and osteopontin, nor on mineralization. High pathologic concentrations of PRL (1000 ng/mL) may downregulate expression of genes that are essential for osteoblast differentiation and functions. The present results explained the clinical findings of hyperprolactinemia-induced bone loss.