bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quiet but still bright: XMM—Newton observations of the soft gamma-ray repeater SGR0526—66
Authors: Tiengo A. , Esposito P. , Mereghetti S. , Israel G. L. , Stella L. , Turolla R. , Zane S. , Rea N. , Götz D. , Feroci M. 
Published: August 2009

Abstract
SGR 0526–66 was the first soft gamma-ray repeater from which a giant flare was detected in 1979 March, suggesting the existence of magnetars, i.e. neutron stars powered by the decay of their extremely strong magnetic field. Since then, very little information has been obtained on this object, mainly because it has been burst inactive since 1983 and the study of its persistent X-ray emission has been hampered by its large distance and its location in a X-ray bright supernova remnant in the Large Magellanic Cloud. Here, we report on a comprehensive analysis of all the available XMM–Newton observations of SGR 0526–66. In particular, thanks to a deep observation taken in 2007, we measured its pulsation period (P= 8.0544 ± 0.0002 s) 6 years after its latest detection by Chandra. This allowed us to detect for the first time a significant reduction of its spin-down rate. From a comparison with two shorter XMM–Newton observations performed in 2000 and 2001, we found no significant changes in the spectrum, which is well modelled by an absorbed power law with NH= 4.6+0.7−0.5× 1021 cm−2 and Γ= 3.27+0.07−0.04. The high luminosity (∼4 × 1035 erg s−1, in the 1–10 keV energy band) still observed ∼25 years after the latest detection of bursting activity places SGR 0526–66 in the group of bright and persistent magnetar candidates.
Competing local and non-local α-effects for a simplified flux transport dynamo model
Authors: Mann P. D. , Proctor M. R. E. 
Published: August 2009

Abstract
The solar magnetic field is maintained by a hydromagnetic dynamo, and it is generally accepted that strong toroidal magnetic field is produced at the tachocline below the solar convection zone. The location of production of the poloidal field via the α-effect is still in question. One such location is the solar surface, where decay of bipolar magnetic regions produces poloidal magnetic field; this is known as the Babcock–Leighton mechanism. Another possible location is the base of the solar convection zone. Recent work has looked at the competition in the solar dynamo between surface and deep-seated α-effects. The α-effects studied were local effects. However, flux-transport dynamo calculations use non-local poloidal source terms, that is they act at the surface but are proportional to the toroidal field at the base of the convection zone. We will discuss the effects of non-local competing α-effects on the dynamo equations to explore the validity of this type of model. We will also include the effects of meridional circulation.
A fuzzy‐dependent chance multi‐objective programming for water resources planning of a coastal city under fuzzy environment
Authors: Peng Hui , Zhou Huicheng 
Published: August 2009

AbstractA fuzzy multi‐objective water resources management model is developed to determine the satisfactory water allocation plan in a coastal city of Northeast China. The imprecise predicted values of parameters are represented by fuzzy numbers, and seven fuzzy objectives of maximizing the possibilities of satisfying the water requirements for six users and total cost less than the expected value are considered. After weighted summation method (WSM) is used to transform the multi‐objective model into a single‐objective model, the satisfactory water allocation plan is efficiently derived according to decision makers' preferences by using a hybrid solution procedure of combining genetic algorithm with fuzzy simulation technique. Results of sensitivity test imply that the interval [0.2, 0.6] of cutting level, surface water and groundwater supplies have the most sensitive influence on results of the model. Moreover, results of discussion demonstrate that the assumption of linearity can be accepted, and membership function of fuzzy number has little influence on results of the model.
The Rock Varnish Revolution: New Insights from Microlaminations and the Contributions of Tanzhuo Liu
Authors: Dorn Ronald I. 
Published: August 2009

AbstractRock varnish is a coating composed of clay minerals cemented to rock surfaces by oxides of manganese and iron. Although this dark brown‐to‐black accretion is most noticeable in arid regions, it occurs in all terrestrial weathering environments. Scholarly varnish research started with Alexander von Humboldt, when he asked how this external accretion forms and why manganese concentrations in varnish are 101–102 greater than in potential source materials. In the ensuing two centuries, investigations into rock varnish have been characterized by researchers studying only a handful of samples who have often used limited data to draw general conclusions. In contrast, nearly two decades of work by Tanzhuo Liu of Columbia University has yielded more than 10,000 varnish microstratigraphies obtained from rock depressions, analyses of which have provided new insights into the origin of rock varnish and the nature of climatic change in deserts, in addition to opening new research avenues in geomorphology and geoarchaeology.
Governments‐in‐Exile: Statehood, Statelessness and the Reconfiguration of Territory and Sovereignty
Authors: McConnell Fiona 
Published: August 2009

AbstractGovernments‐in‐exile are conventionally viewed as discrepant forms of political practice and geopolitical exceptions to the rules of sovereign statehood. However, despite significant limitations, polities such as the Tibetan Government‐in‐Exile enact state‐like functions and are actively forging new political spaces and modalities of sovereignty. Contextualising governments‐in‐exile with regards to a range of twentieth‐century geopolitical anomalies, this study argues that such polities raise key questions for political geographers regarding the relationship between sovereignty and territory, the nature of statehood and the role of ‘the exception’ in geopolitical discourses. In light of contemporary critical reappraisals of sovereignty, territory and statehood, this study calls for political geography – and critical geopolitics in particular – to expand its gaze and engage with issues raised by governments‐in‐exile. In turn, an empirical and theoretical focus on such non‐state entities highlights the utility of ethnographic methodologies within critical geopolitics, enables a critical fusion of literatures of the state and of statelessness, problematises taken‐for‐granted political geography categories and facilitates critical inquiry into alternative political arrangements.
Chemically Bonded Hybrid Systems from Functionalized Hydroxypyridine Molecular Bridge: Characterization and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Yan Bing , Qian Kai 
Published: August 2009

AbstractA series of novel photoactive hybrid materials with organic parts covalently linked to inorganic parts via the acylamino group have been assembled by sol–gel process. The organic parts as molecular bridge derive from α‐hydroxypyridine (HP) functionalized by 3‐(triethoxysilyl)‐propyl isocyanate (TESPIC). Finally homogeneous, molecular‐based hybrid materials with different microstructure (uniform spherical or clubbed) are obtained, in which no phase separation is observed. This may be ascribed as the different coordination behavior of metal ions (Eu3+ (Tb3+) or Zn2+). Red emission of Eu–HP–Si, green emission of Tb–HP–Si and violet‐blue luminescence of Zn–HP–Si hybrids can be achieved within these molecular‐based hybrid materials. Besides, both Eu(Tb) and Zn are introduced into the same hybrid systems (Eu(Zn)–HP–Si or Tb(Zn)–HP–Si) through the covalent Si–O bond, whose sphere particle size can be modified. Especially the photoluminescence behavior can be enhanced, suggesting that intramolecular energy transfer takes place between inert Zn2+ and Eu3+ (Tb3+) in the covalently bonded hybrid systems.
Masticatory dysfunction in patients with myotonic dystrophy (type 1): a 5‐year follow‐up
Authors: Umemoto George , Nakamura Hirokazu , Oya Yasushi , Kikuta Toshihiro 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTEight patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1, DM1 (age range 45–63 years) were followed for a period of 5 years. Two sets of data analyzing masticatory function and activities of daily living (ADL) were obtained at baseline and at 5 years. The results from both time points were compared. The number of food items considered easy to chew, maximum bite force, occlusal contact area, number of teeth, and ADLs were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) at the second assessment when compared to the first. During the intervening 5 years, six of the eight patients adopted a soft diet. These results suggest deterioration in ADLs and masticatory function of patients with DM1. Continuous evaluation of the feeding ability and the type of diet are necessary for patients with DM1.
Oral home telecare for adults with tetraplegia: a feasibility study
Authors: Yuen Hon K. , Pope Charlene 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTThis pilot study investigated the feasibility of delivering an individualized program of oral home telecare training using PC‐based, real‐time interactive videoconferencing via the Internet to meet the unique challenges of dental care for people with tetraplegia. A home‐based videoconferencing method was tested with two adults with tetraplegia and an occupational therapist (rehabilitation specialist). As part of the proposed rehabilitation training to improve independence in performing oral hygiene, adaptive devices (a rechargeable oscillating‐rotating power toothbrush and a cordless oral irrigator) were introduced to facilitate oral care performance with interactive, Web‐based instruction. Training was conducted once a week for 4 weeks. The oral home telecare experience was evaluated using a questionnaire and in‐depth interviews after the training. Both subjects were satisfied with the oral home telecare services and were enthusiastic about using the services without major difficulty after having previously experienced barriers to dental care. In addition to their positive perceptions about videoconferencing, the subjects suggested adaptations and identified unexpected potential uses for interactive videoconferencing. The use of interactive videoconferencing as a mode of oral hygiene training may lead to a change in oral hygiene service delivery methods, improving accessibility to geographically dispersed populations with tetraplegia. Oral home telecare offers strategies to decrease physical barriers and communication difficulties that correspond to recommendations to improve the quality of dental health services for people with tetraplegia.
Hear the Wnt Ror: how melanoma cells adjust to changes in Wnt
Authors: O’Connell Michael P. , Weeraratna Ashani T. 
Published: August 2009

SummaryThe interplay between canonical and non‐canonical Wnt pathways in development and tumorigenesis is tightly regulated. In this review we will describe the yin and the yang of canonical and non‐canonical Wnt signaling pathways during melanocyte development, and melanoma genesis. Canonical Wnt signaling, represented by Wnts such as Wnt1 and Wnt3A, signals via β‐catenin to promote melanocyte differentiation and tumor development. Non‐canonical Wnt signaling, specifically Wnt5A, regulates canonical pathways, and signals to induce melanoma metastasis. This review will focus on the role of Wnt5A during melanoma progression, and its relationship to canonical Wnt signaling.
Plasmodium falciparumDrug Resistance in Madagascar: Facing the Spread of Unusualpfdhfrandpfmdr-1Haplotypes and the Decrease of Dihydroartemisinin Susceptibility
Authors: Andriantsoanirina Valérie , Ratsimbasoa Arsène , Bouchier Christiane , Jahevitra Martial , Rabearimanana Stéphane , Radrianjafy Rogelin , Andrianaranjaka Voahangy , Randriantsoa Tantely , Rason Marie Ange , Tichit Magali , Rabarijaona Léon Paul , Mercereau-Puijalon Odile , Durand Rémy , Ménard Didier 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to provide the first comprehensive spatiotemporal picture ofPlasmodium falciparumresistance in various geographic areas in Madagascar. Additional data about the antimalarial resistance in the neighboring islands of the Comoros archipelago were also collected. We assessed the prevalence ofpfcrt,pfmdr-1,pfdhfr, andpfdhpsmutations and thepfmdr-1gene copy number in 1,596P. falciparumisolates collected in 26 health centers (20 in Madagascar and 6 in the Comoros Islands) from 2006 to 2008. The in vitro responses to a panel of drugs by 373 of the parasite isolates were determined. The results showed (i) unusual profiles of chloroquine susceptibility in Madagascar, (ii) a rapid rise in the frequency of parasites with both thepfdhfrand thepfdhpsmutations, (iii) the alarming emergence of the singlepfdhfr164L genotype, and (iv) the progressive loss of the most susceptible isolates to artemisinin derivatives. In the context of the implementation of the new national policy for the fight against malaria, continued surveillance for the detection ofP. falciparumresistance in the future is required.
Impact of Novel Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Reverse Transcriptase Mutations P119S and T165A on 4′-Ethynylthymidine Analog Resistance Profile
Authors: Yang Guangwei , Paintsil Elijah , Dutschman Ginger E. , Grill Susan P. , Wang Chuan-Jen , Wang Jimin , Tanaka Hiromichi , Hamasaki Takayuki , Baba Masanori , Cheng Yung-Chi 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT
2′,3′-Didehydro-3′-deoxy-4′-ethynylthymidine (4′-Ed4T), a derivative of stavudine (d4T), has potent activity against human immunodeficiency virus and is much less inhibitory to mitochondrial DNA synthesis and cell growth than its progenitor, d4T. 4′-Ed4T triphosphate was a better reverse transcriptase (RT) inhibitor than d4T triphosphate, due to the additional binding of the 4′-ethynyl group at a presumed hydrophobic pocket in the RT active site. Previous in vitro selection for 4′-Ed4T-resistant viral strains revealed M184V and P119S/T165A/M184V mutations on days 26 and 81, respectively; M184V and P119S/T165A/M184V conferred 3- and 130-fold resistance to 4′-Ed4T, respectively. We investigated the relative contributions of these mutations, engineered into the strain NL4-3 background, to drug resistance, RT activity, and viral growth. Viral variants with single RT mutations (P119S or T165A) did not show resistance to 4′-Ed4T; however, M184V and P119S/T165A/M184V conferred three- and fivefold resistance, respectively, compared with that of the wild-type virus. The P119S/M184V and T165A/M184V variants showed about fourfold resistance to 4′-Ed4T. The differences in the growth kinetics of the variants were not more than threefold. The purified RT of mutants with the P119S/M184V and T165A/M184V mutations were inhibited by 4′-Ed4TTP with 8- to 13-fold less efficiency than wild-type RT. M184V may be the primary resistance-associated mutation of 4′-Ed4T, and P119S and T165A are secondary mutations. On the basis of our findings and the results of structural modeling, a virus with a high degree of resistance to 4′-Ed4T (e.g., more than 50-fold resistance) will be difficult to develop. The previously observed 130-fold resistance of the virus with P119S/T165A/M184V to 4′-Ed4T may be partly due to mutations both in the RT sequence and outside the RT sequence.
Antischistosomal Activity of Hexadecyloxypropyl Cyclic 9-(
S
)-[3-Hydroxy-2-(Phosphonomethoxy)Propyl]Adenine and Other Alkoxyalkyl Esters of Acyclic Nucleoside Phosphonates Assessed by Schistosome Worm Killing In Vitro
Authors: Botros Sanaa S. , William Samia , Beadle James R. , Valiaeva Nadejda , Hostetler Karl Y. 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT

9-(
S
)-[3-Hydroxy-2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]adenine [(
S
)-HPMPA] has been reported to have antischistosomal activity. Ether lipid esters of (
S
)-HPMPA and cidofovir (CDV) have greatly increased activities in antiviral assays and in lethal animal models of poxvirus diseases. To see if ether lipid esters of CDV and (
S
)-HPMPA enhance antischistosomal activity, we tested their alkoxyalkyl esters using
Schistosoma mansoni
worm killing in vitro. Hexadecyloxypropyl (HDP)-cyclic-(
S
)-HPMPA and HDP-cyclic-CDV exhibited significant in vitro antischistosomal activities and may offer promise alone or in combination with praziquantel.
Comparison of Assessment of Oxygen Consumption, Etest, and CLSI M38-A2 Broth Microdilution Methods for Evaluation of the Susceptibility of
Aspergillus fumigatus
to Posaconazole
Authors: Araujo Ricardo , Espinel-Ingroff Ana 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT

Posaconazole MICs for 50
Aspergillus fumigatus
isolates with distinct genotypes were determined by three methods. MICs were ≥0.5 μg/ml for 5, 11, and 15 strains by the CLSI reference M38-A2, Etest (48-h), and oxygen consumption methods, respectively. The levels of categorical agreement between the results obtained by the CLSI method and those obtained by the oxygen consumption and Etest methods were 80 and 84%, respectively.
Cell-FreeEscherichia coli-Based System To Screen for Quorum-Sensing Molecules Interacting with Quorum Receptor Proteins ofStreptomyces coelicolor
Authors: Yang Yung-Hun , Kim Tae-Wan , Park Sung-Hee , Lee Kwangwon , Park Hyung-Yeon , Song Eunjung , Joo Hwang-Soo , Kim Yun-Gon , Hahn Ji-Sook , Kim Byung-Gee 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTQuorum sensing (QS) is mediated by small molecules and involved in diverse cellular functions, such as virulence, biofilm formation, secondary metabolism, and cell differentiation. In this study, we developed a rapid and effective screening tool based on a cell-freeEscherichia coli-based expression system to identify QS molecules ofStreptomyces. The binding of QS molecules to γ-butyrolactone receptor ScbR was monitored by changes in the expression levels of the green fluorescent protein reporter inE. colicell extract. Using this assay system, we could successfully confirm SCB1, a γ-butyrolactone molecule inStreptomyces coelicolor, binding to its known receptor, ScbR. In addition, we have shown thatN-hexanoyl-dl-homoserine lactone, one of the QS molecules in many gram-negative bacteria, can regulate ScbR and trigger precocious antibiotic production inS. coelicolor. Our new method can be applied to other strains for which a screening tool for QS molecules has not yet been developed.
Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibodies Directed against Defined Linear Epitopes on Domain 4 of Anthrax Protective Antigen
Authors: Kelly-Cirino Cassandra D. , Mantis Nicholas J. 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTThe anthrax protective antigen (PA) is the receptor-binding subunit common to lethal toxin (LT) and edema toxin (ET), which are responsible for the high mortality rates associated with inhalationalBacillus anthracisinfection. Although recombinant PA (rPA) is likely to be an important constituent of any future anthrax vaccine, evaluation of the efficacies of the various candidate rPA vaccines is currently difficult, because the specific B-cell epitopes involved in toxin neutralization have not been completely defined. In this study, we describe the identification and characterization of two murine monoclonal immunoglobulin G1 antibodies (MAbs), 1-F1 and 2-B12, which recognize distinct linear neutralizing epitopes on domain 4 of PA. 1-F1 recognized a 12-mer peptide corresponding to residues 692 to 703; this epitope maps to a region of domain 4 known to interact with the anthrax toxin receptor CMG-2 and within a conformation-dependent epitope recognized by the well-characterized neutralizing MAb 14B7. As expected, 1-F1 blocked PA's ability to associate with CMG-2 in an in vitro solid-phase binding assay, and it protected murine macrophage cells from intoxication with LT. 2-B12 recognized a 12-mer peptide corresponding to residues 716 to 727, an epitope located immediately adjacent to the core 14B7 binding site and a stretch of amino acids not previously identified as a target of neutralizing antibodies. 2-B12 was as effective as 1-F1 in neutralizing LT in vitro, although it only partially inhibited PA binding to its receptor. Mice passively administered 1-F1 or 2-B12 were partially protected against a lethal challenge with LT. These results advance our fundamental understanding of the mechanisms by which antibodies neutralize anthrax toxin and may have future application in the evaluation of candidate rPA vaccines.
B Cells Are Essential for Moderating the Inflammatory Response and Controlling Bacterial Multiplication in a Mouse Model of Vaccination againstChlamydophila abortusInfection
Authors: Buendía Antonio J. , Ortega Nieves , Caro María R. , Del Río Laura , Gallego María C. , Sánchez Joaquín , Navarro Jose A. , Cuello Francisco , Salinas Jesús 
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACTThe use of inactivated vaccines associated with suitable adjuvants has been demonstrated to confer a good level of protection againstChlamydophila abortus. However, the basis of the immune protective response induced by these vaccines has been poorly studied. B cells act as an immune regulatory population during primary infection byC. abortus. Thus, it was considered of interest to study the role of B cells in an infection after immunization with a killed vaccine. For this, C57BL/6 and B-cell-deficient mice were immunized with a killed vaccine againstC. abortususing QS-21 as the adjuvant. After challenge, the course of infection was established by analysis of morbidity,C. abortusburden in the liver, and histopathological changes. The immune response induced was studied by real-time PCR techniques. Experiments involving transfer of immune serum from vaccinated or previously infected mice were also carried out. The lack of B cells reduced the protection conferred by the QS-21 adjuvant vaccine. Vaccinated B-cell-deficient mice showed a 1,000-fold-greater bacterial burden in the liver than their wild-type counterparts. Obvious differences existed in the liver, where a severe neutrophilic reaction and extended areas of necrosis were observed with vaccinated B-cell-deficient mice. An analysis of the immune response pointed to a significant increase in inflammatory cytokines and chemokines and the deficient production of transforming growth factor beta. The transfer of antibodies restored the level of protection. This study demonstrates that B cells play a crucial role in controllingC. abortusmultiplication and prevent an exacerbated inflammatory response.