bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Diabetes Mellitus with Insulin Lispro
Authors: Tanaka Masami , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: June 2011

Insulin lispro (Humalog®) is a recombinant human insulin analogue with reversed amino acids at position 28 and 29 on the insulin B-chain (Lys(B28), Pro(B29)). It has a faster onset and shorter duration of glucose-lowering activity than regular human insulin (RHI), which is a great advantage. Insulin lispro can be injected immediately before meals or even after meals. This short injection-meal interval contributes greatly to convenience, flexibility, treatment compliance, and patients’ quality of life, which in turn lead to better glycemic control. Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated that insulin lispro, alone or as mixture-25 or -50, controls postprandial blood glucose and stabilizes diurnal variation satisfactorily. The risk of hypoglycemia, including severe or nocturnal episodes, was lower in insulin lispro users than in RHI users. This insulin might be suitable for type 1 diabetic patients, especially when using an insulin pump. Combination therapy of lispro with a sulphonylurea or glargine is safe and efficacious. Several pharmacoeconomic studies have revealed the usefulness of this insulin.
Usability Evaluation of An Electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) Application
Authors: Iribarren S. , Kapsandoy S. , Perri S. , Staggers N. , Guo J.
Published: June 2011

Background: Electronic medication administration records (eMARs) have been widely used in recent years. However, formal usability evaluations are not yet available for these vendor applications, especially from the perspective of nurses, the largest group of eMAR users.

Objective: To conduct a formal usability evaluation of an implemented eMAR.

Methods: Four evaluators examined a commercial vendor eMAR using heuristic evaluation techniques. The evaluators defined seven tasks typical of eMAR use and independently evaluated the application. Consensus techniques were used to obtain 100% agreement of identified usability problems and severity ratings. Findings were reviewed with 5 clinical staff nurses and the Director of Clinical Informatics who verified findings with a small group of clinical nurses.

Results: Evaluators found 60 usability problems categorized into 233 heuristic violations. Match, Error, and Visibility heuristics were the most frequently violated. Administer Medication and Order and Modify Medications tasks had the highest number of heuristic violations and usability problems rated as major or catastrophic.

Conclusion: The high number of usability problems could impact the effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction of nurses’ medication administration activities and may include concerns about patient safety. Usability is a joint responsibility between sites and vendors. We offer a call to action for usability evaluations at all sites and eMAR application redesign as necessary to improve the user experience and promote patient safety.
Tropopause height at 78° N 16° E: average seasonal variation 2007–2010
Authors: Hall C. M. , Hansen G. , Sigernes F. , Kuyeng Ruiz K. M.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. We present a seasonal climatology of tropopause altitude for 78° N 16° E derived from observations 2007–2010 by the SOUSY VHF radar on Svalbard. The spring minimum occurs one month later than that of surface air temperature and instead coincides with the maximum in ozone column density. This confirms similar studies based on radiosonde measurements in the arctic and demonstrates downward control by the stratosphere. If one is to exploit the potential of tropopause height as a metric for climate change at high latitude and elsewhere, it is imperative to observe and understand the processes which establish the tropopause – an understanding to which this study contributes.
Radio occultation bending angle anomalies during tropical cyclones
Authors: Biondi R. , Neubert T. , Syndergaard S. , Nielsen J. K.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. The tropical deep convection affects the radiation balance of the atmosphere changing the water vapor mixing ratio and the temperature of the upper troposphere lower stratosphere. The aim of this work is to better understand these processes and to investigate if severe storms leave a significant signature in radio occultation profiles in the tropical tropopause layer. Using tropical cyclone best track database and data from different GPS radio occultation missions (COSMIC, GRACE, CHAMP, SACC and GPSMET), we selected 1194 profiles in a time window of 3 h and a space window of 300 km from the eye of the cyclone. We show that the bending angle anomaly of a GPS radio occultation signal is typically larger than the climatology in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere and that a double tropopause during deep convection can easily be detected using this technique. Comparisons with co-located radiosondes, climatology of tropopause altitudes and GOES analyses are also shown to support the hypothesis that the bending angle anomaly can be used as an indicator of convective towers. The results are discussed in connection to the GPS radio occultation receiver which will be part of the Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space (ACES) payload on the International Space Station.
The correlation between solar and geomagnetic activity – Part 3: An integral response model
Authors: Du Z. L.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. An integral response model is proposed to describe the relationship between geomagnetic activity (aa index) and solar activity (represented by sunspot number Rz): The aa at a given time t is the integral of Rz at past times (t'≤t) multiplied by an exponential decay factor of the time differences (e−(t−t')/τ), where τ is the decay time scale (~40 months). The correlation coefficient of aa with the reconstructed series based on this model (rf=0.85) is much higher than that of aa with Rz (r0=0.61). If this model is applied to each solar cycle, the correlation coefficient will be higher (rf=0.95). This model can naturally explain some phenomena related to aa and Rz, such as (i) the significant increase in the aa index (and its baseline) over the twentieth century; (ii) the longer lag times of aa to Rz at solar cycle maxima than at minima; and (iii) the variations in the correlations related to solar and Hale cycles. These results demonstrate that aa depends not only on the present Rz but also on past values. The profile of aa can be better predicted from Rz by this model than by point-point correspondence.
An algorithm for detecting Trichodesmium surface blooms in the South Western Tropical Pacific
Authors: Dupouy C. , Benielli-Gary D. , Neveux J. , Dandonneau Y. , Westberry T. K.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Trichodesmium, a major colonial cyanobacterial nitrogen fixer, forms large blooms in NO3-depleted tropical oceans and enhances CO2 sequestration by the ocean due to its ability to fix dissolved dinitrogen. Thus, its importance in C and N cycles requires better estimates of its distribution at basin to global scales. However, existing algorithms to detect them from satellite have not yet been successful in the South Western Tropical Pacific (SWTP). Here, a novel approach based on radiance anomaly spectra (RAS) observed in SeaWiFS imagery is used to detect Trichodesmium during the austral summertime in the SWTP. Selected pixels are characterized by a restricted range of parameters quantifying RAS spectra quantitative parameters (e.g. slope, intercept, curvature). The fraction of valid pixels identified as Trichodesmium surface blooms in the region 5° S–25° S 160° E–190° E is low (between 0.01 and 0.2 %), but is about 100 times higher than suggested by previous algorithms. This represents a total surface area which varies from 1500 to 20 000 km2. A monthly distribution of Trichodesmium surface accumulations in the SWTP is presented which demonstrates that the number of selected pixels peaks in November–February each year, consistent with field observations. This approach was validated with in situ observations of Trichodesmium surface accumulations for the period 1998–2010.
Domestic wells have high probability of pumping septic tank leachate
Authors: Horn J. E. , Harter T.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Onsite wastewater treatment systems such as septic systems are common in rural and semi-rural areas around the world; in the US, about 25–30 % of households are served by a septic system and a private drinking water well. Site-specific conditions and local groundwater flow are often ignored when installing septic systems and wells. Particularly in areas with small lots, thus a high septic system density, these typically shallow wells are prone to contamination by septic system leachate. Typically, mass balance approaches are used to determine a maximum septic system density that would prevent contamination of the aquifer. In this study, we estimate the probability of a well pumping partially septic system leachate. A detailed groundwater and transport model is used to calculate the capture zone of a typical drinking water well. A spatial probability analysis is performed to assess the probability that a capture zone overlaps with a septic system drainfield depending on aquifer properties, lot and drainfield size. We show that a high septic system density poses a high probability of pumping septic system leachate. The hydraulic conductivity of the aquifer has a strong influence on the intersection probability. We conclude that mass balances calculations applied on a regional scale underestimate the contamination risk of individual drinking water wells by septic systems. This is particularly relevant for contaminants released at high concentrations, for substances which experience limited attenuation, and those being harmful even in low concentrations.
Precipitation change in Southern Italy linked to global scale oscillation indexes
Authors: Caloiero T. , Coscarelli R. , Ferrari E. , Mancini M.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. This study investigates precipitation variability in five regions of Southern Italy (Campania, Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria and Sicily) using a homogeneous database of about 70 rain gauges with more than 50 years of observation. First, a statistical analysis was performed through the Mann-Kendall non-parametric test in order to determine rainfall the trend on both yearly and seasonal scales. Then, the relationship between the rainfall and some teleconnection pattern indexes was investigated using Spearman's test. The results show remarkable statistically significant negative trends for annual and winter aggregations in most part of the series. Moreover, a strong correlation has emerged between the teleconnection patterns and precipitation in Southern Italy, particularly in winter and on the Tyrrhenian side of the study area.
Failure to Reverse Prolonged Vecuronium-Induced Neuromuscular Blockade with Edrophonium in an Anesthetized Dog
Authors: Martin-Flores Manuel , Boesch Jordyn , Campoy Luis , Gleed Robin D.
Published: June 2011

A case of prolonged muscle relaxation after vecuronium in an anesthetized dog is presented. After using peripheral nerve stimulation to confirm partial recovery of neuromuscular transmission, administration of 0.5 mg/kg IV of intravenous edrophonium failed to complete the reversal process. Subsequent administration of neostigmine resulted in complete recovery from blockade. Without monitoring neuromuscular function with a peripheral nerve stimulator until reversal was complete, it was very likely this patient would have been extubated with incomplete neuromuscular transmission. Several factors affecting the duration of neuromuscular blockade and its reversal are addressed.
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement for Treatment of CrCL Injury: Complications and Owner Satisfaction
Authors: Steinberg Ezra J. , Prata Raymond G. , Palazzini Karen , Brown Dorothy C.
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this retrospective study of 171 dogs that underwent 193 tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) surgeries was to describe complications and owner satisfaction associated with the procedure. Complications occurred in 21 cases (11%). Subsequent meniscal tear was the most common complication (10/193, 5.2%). Increasing body weight (P=0.02–0.04) and small cage size (P=0.06) were significantly associated with postsurgical complications. Ninety-two percent of owners were satisfied with the outcome of the TTA procedure, but only 84% stated that they would be willing to have the procedure performed again. The authors concluded that TTA had a complication rate and owner satisfaction similar to other tibial osteotomies for the surgical correction of cranial cruciate ligament disease.
The Influence of Topical Unsaturated Fatty Acids and Essential Oils on Normal and Atopic Dogs
Authors: Tretter Sandra , Mueller Ralf S.
Published: June 2011

Seven dogs with atopic dermatitis and six normal dogs were treated with a spot-on product containing essential oils and unsaturated fatty acids q 7 days for 8 wk. Seven additional atopic dogs received a daily spray containing similar ingredients to the spot-on. In all dogs, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured before and after treatment using a closed chamber device. In atopic dogs, a validated lesion score (canine atopic dermatitis extent and severity index, CADESI) was determined and pruritus was assessed with a visual analog scale before and after treatment. The mean CADESI scores in atopic dogs decreased with the spot-on (P=0.0043) and with the spray (P=0.0366). Similarly, the pruritus scores decreased with the spot-on (P=0.266) and with the spray (P=0.0177). There was a significant difference between the TEWL values of healthy and atopic dogs on the abdomen (P=0.0181) and back (P=0.0123). TEWL decreased significantly on the back after treatment with the spray (P=0.016), but not on the abdomen (P=0.078). Adverse effects were not observed. The results of this pilot study indicate that topical fatty acids and essential oils are a useful treatment option for canine atopic dermatitis.
Successful Therapy of Vitamin D-Dependant Rickets in a Kitten
Authors: MacKenzie John M. , Crawford Jason , Ghantous Seth
Published: June 2011

A 7 mo old, 2.4 kg, intact female kitten was evaluated for an inability to walk after falling out of the owner's arms. Diagnostic testing abnormalities included hypocalcemia, low ionized calcium, and elevated intact parathyroid hormone concentration. The 25-hydroxyvitamin D level was normal. Radiographic abnormalities included generalized osteopenia, a nondisplaced, folding fracture of the proximal right fibula, and sclerosis with a compression fracture of the proximal right tibia. Based on these findings and response to calcium carbonate and calcitriol therapy, a diagnosis of vitamin D-dependent rickets was made. Reports of similar cases in veterinary medicine are sparse and no other reports to date document radiographic abnormalities with a successful therapeutic outcome.
An Unusual Presentation of Granulocytic Anaplasmosis in a Young Dog
Authors: Kane Adam , Block Gary , Heeb Laurie A.
Published: June 2011

Canine granulocytic anaplasmosis is a disease diagnosed in many areas of the United States, with the highest prevalence reported in dogs in the upper midwestern, northeastern, and western states. It is also found in several European countries. Anaplasmosis can manifest with a wide range of clinicopathologic findings. A 20 wk old puppy was presented with physical examination and laboratory findings atypical of the disease. In addition to other signs, abdominal effusion was detected. Diagnostic evaluation confirmed that the puppy was positive for anaplasmosis. No morulae were found in peripheral white blood cells, but morulae were apparent in the white cells of the abdominal effusion. Leukopenia was observed, characterized by neutropenia, as opposed to the lymphopenia and eosinopenia typically seen with the disease. Blast cells were also seen in the peripheral blood, and reactive lymphocytes were noted in the bone marrow. The patient responded well to doxycycline therapy. All hematologic and physical abnormalities resolved.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus with Diabetic Ketoacidosis in a Yorkshire Terrier Bitch
Authors: Armenise Andrea , Pastorelli Gianfranco , Palmisano Angela , Sontas Hasan B. , Romagnoli Stefano
Published: June 2011

A 6 yr old pregnant Yorkshire terrier bitch presented 62 days after mating with an acute history of vomiting and coughing. The owners also reported that the dog was polyuric and polydypsic for the last 2 weeks. Complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and urinalysis revealed hyperglycemia, ketonemia, ketonuria, and metabolic acidosis. Diabetic ketoacidosis was diagnosed and after emergency treatment, including fluid therapy, prophylactic antibiotics, and regular insulin, the bitch whelped six healthy normal puppies. Two weeks after treatment, the bitch was clinically normal with normal fructosamine levels. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of gestational diabetes mellitus in a small breed dog.
A Strategic Investigation for Fuel Economy Improvement of Medium-Duty Tactical Truck: Preliminary Simulation and Experimental Results
Authors: Liao Y. Gene , Quail Allen M.
Published: June 2011

This paper reports the planning efforts and preliminary results of increasing fuel economy in the current fleet of medium-duty tactical truck. A strategic plan was developed through investigation of current and future technology offerings from original equipment manufacturers and after market suppliers. Research efforts consisted of an initial phase where a broad range of integration candidates were collected and a secondary phase where in-depth analysis was conducted to target those to be considered for inclusion in the strategic plan. The strategic plan lays out the integrated technologies in the near term including auxiliary electrification of engine cooling fan and hydrogen injection. For the mid-term time frame, the plan involves implementing an engine stop/start system and electrifying other auxiliaries. The final step in the plan is the development and implementation of a full hybrid population. The preliminary results include simulation of the electric cooling fan and mild hybrid powertrain, and experimental test of hydrogen injection.
Effects of Heat Stress on the Well-Being, Fertility, and Hatchability of Chickens in the Northern Guinea Savannah Zone of Nigeria: A Review
Authors: Ayo J. O. , Obidi J. A. , Rekwot P. I.
Published: June 2011

The paper examines heat stress and its adverse effects as a hindrance to profitable poultry production in the tropics, with emphasis on the Northern Guinea Savannah zone of Nigeria. It elucidates the general negative effects of heat stress on physiological parameters of domestic chickens, and the specific impact of the stress on reproduction in the tropics. The deleterious effects are expressed in poor poultry well-being and reproductive performance. It is concluded that measures aimed at alleviating heat stress in domestic chickens must be adopted in order to enhance reproductive and, consequently, efficiency of modern poultry production in the tropics.
Glycogen
Authors: BeMiller James N.
Published: June 2011

Glycogen is a branched glucan, ie, a branched polymer consisting of linear segments of α‐
D
‐glucopyranosyl units joined by α‐
D
‐(1 → 4) glycosidic linkages with α‐
D
‐(1 → 6) glycosidic linkages joining the segments at the branch points. Biosynthesis, isolation and purification, structure and properties, and uses and functions of glycogen are covered.
Leather
Authors: Bailey David G.
Published: June 2011

Leather is composed of 65–70% water, 30–35% dry substance, and <1% ash. The dry substance is largely made up of the fibrous proteins collagen, keratin, elastin, and reticulin. The chemical composition and microstructure of leather are discussed, as well as manufacturing and processing techniques such as chrome tanning, vegetable tanning, dyeing, and drying.
Protein Dynamics
Authors: Alpert Bernard , Rivet Elisabeth
Published: June 2011

In the past millennium protein structure was often the focus of attention, and the protein flexibility was frequently ignored. Now, protein internal motions are recognized by various experimental and simulation approaches. Here, we describe the efforts to find the nature of protein dynamics and its role in biological functions.
Nanodevices for
DNA
Analysis
Authors: Mahalanabis Madhumita , Klapperich Catherine M.
Published: June 2011

In this chapter, we review some of the most promising technologies in the fields of microfluidics and nanotechnology. Although our focus is on DNA analytical devices for microbial diagnostics and disease detection, many of the technologies also have applications for protein detection, cancer diagnostics and imaging, flow cytometry, and immunoassays. Applications and advances in the areas of nanopore technology, nanoparticle‐based assays, cantilever arrays, and other biosensors are covered.
Liquid Chromatography with Enhanced Fluidity Mobile Phases
Authors: Phillips Shannon
Published: June 2011

Fast and efficient chromatography can result from the practice of chromatography with a mobile‐phase system that has the solvent strength of a liquid but the density near that of a gas. This approach to supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) is achieved by utilizing a static or dynamic mobile‐phase system that is a combination of two or more fluids, one of which is a low‐viscosity fluid such as carbon dioxide. These ‘enhanced’ fluids are realized for chromatographic applications by applying the appropriate engineering controls. There are few limitations on the combination of mobile phase, stationary phase, and analyte chemistries as long as the mobile phase is maintained as a single fluid. Liquefied carbon dioxide can be exploited as either a thermodynamic or a kinetic variable when utilized as a mobile‐phase solvent. These subcritical fluids can attain a modest pH and polarity range in order to achieve a wide range of separation mechanisms. Ternary solvent systems consisting of carbon dioxide, alcohol, and water in combination with a polar stationary phase can result in novel chromatographic applications. Significant advances in the engineering of the hardware and software must be made in order for SFC to reach its full potential.
Structure and Bonding of Simple Manganese‐Containing Compounds
Authors: Nguyen Minh Tho , Majumdar Devashis , Leszczynski Jerzy , Roszak Szczepan
Published: June 2011

After a brief history of the discovery of the elemental manganese, and a description of its basic properties, the results previously obtained by quantum chemical calculations on different classes of small Mn compounds are reviewed. These include the dimer and clusters (Mn)n, hydrides MnHn, halogenides MnXnwith X = F, Cl, Br, oxides MnnOx, carbonyls Mnn(CO)x, half‐sandwich complexes CpMn(CO)nand sandwich complexes (Cp)2Mn and derivatives. The molecular properties considered range from the electronic structure to the spectroscopic and thermochemical parameters. Behaviour of Mn as a dopant in clusters is also presented.
Risk factors for sexual aggression in young men: an expansion of the confluence model
Authors: Abbey Antonia , Jacques‐Tiura Angela J. , LeBreton James M.
Published: June 2011

There are many explanations for high rates of sexual aggression, with no one theory dominating the field. This study extends past research by evaluating an expanded version of the confluence model with a community sample. One‐hour audio computer‐assisted self‐interviews were completed by 470 young single men. Using structural equation analyses, delinquency, hostile masculinity, impersonal sex, and misperception of women's sexual cues were positively and directly associated with the number of sexually aggressive acts committed. There were also indirect effects of childhood victimization, personality traits associated with subclinical levels of psychopathy, and alcohol consumption. These findings demonstrate the usefulness of the confluence model, as well as the importance of broadening this theory to include additional constructs. Aggr. Behav. 37:450–464, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Health literacy: An opportunity to improve individual, community, and global health
Authors: Pleasant Andrew
Published: June 2011

This chapter addresses health literacy, a powerful social determinant of health. Using a program developed by the Canyon Ranch Institute as a primary example, the chapter illustrates how addressing health literacy as a theory of behavior change can produce positive gains in individual, community, and global health.
Relaxation of ideal classical particles in a one‐dimensional box
Authors: Gebhard F. , zu Münster K.
Published: June 2011

We study the deterministic dynamics of non‐interacting classical gas particles confined to a one‐dimensional box as a pedagogical toy model for the relaxation of the Boltzmann distribution towards equilibrium. Hard container walls alone induce a uniform distribution of the gas particles at large times. For the relaxation of the velocity distribution we model the dynamical walls by independent scatterers. The Markov property guarantees a stationary but not necessarily thermal velocity distribution for the gas particles at large times. We identify the conditions for physical walls where the stationary velocity distribution is the Maxwell distribution. For our numerical simulation we represent the wall particles by independent harmonic oscillators. The corresponding dynamical map for oscillators with a fixed phase (Fermi–Ulam accelerator) is chaotic for mesoscopic box dimensions.
Modulation der Acidität – hoch acide Brønsted‐Säuren in der asymmetrischen Katalyse
Authors: Rueping Magnus , Nachtsheim Boris J. , Ieawsuwan Winai , Atodiresei Iuliana
Published: June 2011

Chirale, hoch acide Brønsted‐Säuren haben sich als metallfreie Katalysatoren in der organischen Synthese etabliert und konnten mittlerweile in einer Vielzahl enantioselektiver C‐C‐ und C‐X‐Bindungsknüpfungen eingesetzt werden. Die hohe Acidität dieser neuen Katalysatoren macht sie zu nützlichen Hilfsmitteln für die Aktivierung verschiedener Imine, Carbonyle und weiterer schwach basischer Substrate. Durch die Bildung chiraler Kontaktionenpaare ergeben sich völlig neue Aktivierungsmöglichkeiten für die asymmetrische Katalyse. Dieser Kurzaufsatz gibt einen Überblick über das rationale Design dieser neuen Organokatalysatoren und beschreibt verschiedenste, kürzlich erschienene Anwendungen.
Virtual Assessment of the Endocranial Morphology of the Early Modern European Fossil Calvaria From Cioclovina, Romania
Authors: Kranioti Elena F. , Holloway Ralph , Senck Sascha , Ciprut Tudor , Grigorescu Dan , Harvati Katerina
Published: June 2011

Virtual approximation of the middle meningeal arterial networks and various sinuses of a Cioclovina brain. See Figure 4 in Kranioti et al., on page 1089, in this issue.
Finite‐horizon robust Kalman filtering for uncertain discrete time‐varying systems with state‐delay
Authors: Liu Zijian
Published: June 2011

A finite‐horizon robust estimator design approach is developed for a class of discrete time‐varying uncertain systems with state‐delay. It extends the Kalman filter to the case in which the considered system is subject to norm‐bounded uncertainties in both state and output matrices. The state and gain matrices of the designed filter are optimized to give a minimal upper bound such that the estimation error variance is guaranteed to lie within a certain bound for all admissible uncertainties. A simulation example is presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed approach by comparing to the traditional Kalman filtering method.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Kippsicherheit von Postamenten für Skulpturen
Authors: Kless Rainer , Ruge Peter , Hampel Torsten
Published: June 2011

Im Auftrag der Skulpturensammlung Dresden war die Kippsicherheit schlanker Postamente von Kleinplastiken nachzuweisen. Die theoretischen Betrachtungen wurden durch Pendelstoß‐Versuche überprüft und mit diesen Ergebnissen abgeglichen. Im Ergebnis liegt ein Bemessungsansatz für die Ballastierung von schlanken Postamenten vor, der deren ausreichende Kippsicherheit infolge versehentlichen Anrempelns oder Stolperns durch Museumsbesucher gewährleistet.

Tilting resistance of slender pedestals of sculptures. On behalf of the Skulpturensammlung Dresden the tilting resistance of slender pedestals of small sculptures had to be verified. The theoretical considerations have been proved by pendulum impact tests and compared with those results. The result is a design approach for the ballasting of slender pedestals, that ensures sufficient stability due to accidental stumbling by museum visitors.
More folic acid, the five questions: Why, who, when, how much, and how
Authors: Mastroiacovo Pierpaolo , Leoncini Emanuele
Published: June 2011

In recent years, a number of studies have been performed to evaluate the possible health benefits of an increased intake of folic acid (FA) on human health. However, the only well‐documented benefit emerging from randomized controlled trials, nonrandomized interventions trials, and observational studies is the risk reduction of neural tube defects (NTDs). NTDs are congenital malformations that include anencephaly, encephalocele, and spina bifida caused by the failure of fusion of the neural tube that normally closes between 22nd and 28th day since conception (on an average 40–42th day after the first day of last menstrual period). The occurrence of NTDs varies among population between 0.8 and 3 per 1,000, and it is estimated that 324,000 pregnancies are affected every year worldwide. More FA can decrease the NTDs risk up to 0.6 per 1,000 births. Other malformations as congenital heart defects, cleft lip, and limb deficiencies can be most probably also reduced. To decrease the NTDs risk, it is recommended that all women capable of becoming pregnant should have more FA. The goal is that every woman could start her pregnancy with an optimal folate status, estimated today to be as more than 906 nmol/L of red blood cell folate concentration. More FA can be obtained through a strict Mediterranean pattern of nutrition and healthy life style, fortified food, supplements. Women and health authorities can choose the most appropriate strategy. Monitoring folate status of women during the periconceptional period is an essential way to evaluate the success of the preferred strategy.
‘I'm not a war monger but…’: Discourse Analysis and Social Psychological Peace Research
Authors: Gibson Stephen
Published: June 2011

The present paper argues for a discourse analytic approach to social psychological peace research and demonstrates the potential of such an approach through a re‐specification of the concept of attitudes to war. This is illustrated through an analysis of a series of televised debates broadcast in the UK in February–March 2003 in the build‐up to the formal outbreak of the Iraq War. Analysis draws attention to the importance of rhetorical context and function, the inseparability of attitude object and evaluation and the formulation of evaluations as specific or general. Findings are discussed in the context of recent calls for methodological pluralism in social psychological peace research with a suggestion that matters of epistemology stand prior to methodology. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A New Neolignan and a New Sesterterpenoid from the Stems of Picrasma quassioidesBennet
Authors: Jiao Wei‐Hua , Gao Hao , Zhao Feng , He Fei , Zhou Guang‐Xiong , Yao Xin‐Sheng
Published: June 2011

A new dihydrobenzofuran‐type neolignan, picrasmalignan A (1), and a new sesterterpene lactone, 2′‐isopicrasin A (4), were isolated from the stems of Picrasma quassioides Bennet, along with four known compounds, comprising two neolignans, 2 and 3, a sesterterpene lactone, 5, and a flavonol, 6. The structures of these compounds were determined by detailed analysis of NMR and MS data, and comparison with the literature data. Compounds 1–6 were tested for their anti‐inflammatory activity, and 1–3 and 6 showed potent inhibitory activities on nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interleukin‐6 production in mouse monocyte‐macrophage RAW 264.7 stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
An Entry to Curcuphenol/Elvirol Core Structures via a retro‐Aldol Reaction
Authors: Plano María F. , Labadie Guillermo R. , Jacob Melissa R. , Tekwani Babu L. , Cravero Raquel M.
Published: June 2011

Analogs of curcuphenol/elvirol, naturally occurring bisabolane sesquiterpenes, were prepared in six steps from alkyl‐α‐tetralones employing an aromatization reaction of cyclic dienone precursors and olefination of the key aldehyde intermediates. The in vitro antifungal activities of 6a, 6b, 6d, and 6g are also reported.
Phytochemical Analysis and Antimicrobial Activity of Cardaria draba (L.) Desv. Volatiles
Authors: Radonić Ani , Blažević Ivica , Mastelić Josip , Zekić Marina , Skočibušić Mirjana , Maravić Ana
Published: June 2011

Two different volatile isolates from the aerial parts of Cardaria draba (L.) Desv., obtained either by hydrodistillation (Extract I) or by CH2Cl2 extraction subsequent to hydrolysis by exogenous myrosinase (Extract II), were characterized by GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses. The main volatiles obtained by hydrodistillation, i.e., 4‐(methylsulfanyl)butyl isothiocyanate (1; 28.0%) and 5‐(methylsulfanyl)pentanenitrile (2; 13.8%), originated from the degradation of glucoerucin. In Extract I, also volatiles without sulfur and/or nitrogen were identified. These were mostly hexadecanoic acid (10.8%), phytol (10.2%), dibutyl phthalate (4.5%), and some other compounds in smaller percentages. Extract II contained mostly glucosinolate degradation products. They originated from glucoraphanin, viz., 4‐(methylsulfinyl)butyl isothiocyanate (3; 69.2%) and 5‐(methylsulfinyl)pentanenitrile (4; 4.5%), glucosinalbin, viz., 2‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)acetonitrile (5; 7.2%), and glucoerysolin, viz., 4‐(methylsulfonyl)butyl isothiocyanate (6; 5.0%). Moreover, the volatile samples were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity using the disc‐diffusion method and determining minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC). All volatile isolates expressed a wide range of growth inhibition activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria and fungi. The MIC values varied between 4 and 128 μg/ml.
Isopenicillin N Synthase Binds δ‐(L‐α‐Aminoadipoyl)‐L‐Cysteinyl‐D‐Thia‐allo‐Isoleucine through both Sulfur Atoms
Authors: Clifton Ian J. , Ge Wei , Adlington Robert M. , Baldwin Jack E. , Rutledge Peter J.
Published: June 2011

Isopenicillin N synthase (IPNS) catalyses the synthesis of isopenicillin N (IPN), the biosynthetic precursor to penicillin and cephalosporin antibiotics. IPNS is a non‐heme iron(II) oxidase that mediates the oxidative cyclisation of the tripeptide δ‐L‐α‐aminoadipoyl‐L‐cysteinyl‐D‐valine (ACV) to IPN with a concomitant reduction of molecular oxygen to water. Solution‐phase incubation experiments have shown that, although IPNS can turn over analogues with a diverse range of hydrocarbon side chains in the third (valinyl) position of its substrate, the enzyme is much less tolerant of polar residues in this position. Thus, although IPNS converts δ‐L‐α‐aminoadipoyl‐L‐cysteinyl‐D‐isoleucine (ACI) and AC‐D‐allo‐isoleucine (ACaI) to penam products, the isosteric sulfur‐containing peptides AC‐D‐thiaisoleucine (ACtI) and AC‐D‐thia‐allo‐isoleucine (ACtaI) are not turned over. To determine why these peptides are not substrates, we crystallized ACtaI with IPNS. We report the synthesis of ACtaI and the crystal structure of the IPNS:FeII:ACtaI complex to 1.79 Å resolution. This structure reveals direct ligation of the thioether side chain to iron: the sulfide sulfur sits 2.66 Å from the metal, squarely in the oxygen binding site. This result articulates a structural basis for the failure of IPNS to turn over these substrates.
Psychological distress and experience of sexual and physical assault among Australian prisoners
Authors: Schneider Karen , Richters Juliet , Butler Tony , Yap Lorraine , Richards Alun , Grant Luke , Smith Anthony M. A. , Donovan Basil
Published: June 2011

Background

Prison populations are made up of individuals from disadvantaged, often abusive backgrounds, who are more likely to suffer from psychological problems than the general community.

Aim

This study aimed to determine associations between current psychological distress and history of having experienced sexual coercion and/or physical assault among prisoners in two Australian states (Queensland and New South Wales).

Methods

We conducted a random sample survey of prisoners by computer‐assisted telephone interview. Prisoners were asked about forced sexual encounters in or outside prison, and physical assault in prison. Psychological distress was estimated using a dichotomised score obtained from the Kessler 6‐Item Psychological Distress Scale (K6), and a logistic regression analysis was employed to investigate associations.

Results

A total of 2426 prisoners were interviewed of 3055 prisoners invited to participate, a response rate of 79%. We categorised 236 men (12%) and 63 women (19%) as ‘severely’ psychologically distressed according to the K6, and 13% of the men and 60% of the women reported that they had been sexually coerced prior to imprisonment. Physical assault in prison was common, reported by 34% of the men and 24% of the women. On multivariate analysis, prisoners were more likely to be psychologically distressed if they had ever been threatened with sexual assault in prison or physically assaulted in prison. Sexual coercion outside prison was an important associate of psychological distress among men but not among women.

Conclusions

As psychological distress and experiences of assault are closely statistically linked among male prisoners and both are very common among female prisoners, their screening for psychological distress should include efforts to find out about sexual and violent assaults against them both before and during imprisonment. Further, longitudinal research with prisoners is required to establish causal relationships. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental Study on Time Features of Particle Motion in Rotating Drums
Authors: Liu X. Y. , Xu X. , Zhang Y. Y.
Published: June 2011

Rotating drums are widely used in pharmaceutical industry to coat tablets. The motion of the tablet particle is one of the most important factors affecting coating uniformity. The purpose of the research is to experimentally investigate two important time variables for the coating process, residence time and turnover time, and their dependence on operating parameters (rotation speed and filling degree of the drum). The average residence time was found to decrease with increasing rotation speed and filling degree. The average turnover time was observed to increase approximately linearly with the inverse of the drum speed, but was found to be independent of the filling degree. A dimensionless time variable, the fractional residence time, i.e., the residence time divided by the turnover time, was introduced. Analysis showed that the fractional residence time could be a good indicator of coating uniformity. Results of the present work provide useful information for theoretical modeling which may ultimately serve as a tool for coating optimization.
Synthesis of Nano‐γ‐Ferric Oxide by Thermolysis of the 2‐Mercapto‐5‐Methylpyridine‐N‐Oxide‐Iron(III) Complex via Factorial Design
Authors: Edrissi M. , Soleymani M.
Published: June 2011

2‐Mercapto‐5‐methylpyridine‐N‐oxide (MMPNO) and its sodium salt (NaMMPNO) were synthesized. The reaction of the latter with Fe3+ generates Fe(MMPNO)3 chelate. The thermolysis of this chelate at 350 °C yielded highly pure reddish‐brown γ‐Fe2O3 nanocrystallites with an average particle size of 6.2 nm, a particle size range of 4.2 to 14.8 nm, and a specific surface area of 51.5 m2g–1. The thermolysis process was optimized using the 22 fractional design. Quantitative tests and characterization of products were carried out by UV‐vis spectroscopy, XRD, LLS, SEM, TGA, BET, TEM, FT‐IR, elemental microanalysis, and classical analytical measurements.
An Unexpected and Easy Way of Freezing the Configuration of a Triaryl Phosphane Oxide
Authors: Haberhauer Gebhard , Ernst Silvia , Wilch Constanze
Published: June 2011

Configurationally stable triaryl phosphane oxides are important for reactions with transfer of chiral information. Apart from introducing bulky substituents to suppress fast inversion of helicity at room temperature, the use of a second chiral element which induces chirality in the triaryl phosphane oxide, so that it adopts only one configuration, is suitable. With regard to chirality transfer, C2‐symmetric imidazole cyclopeptides were tested for obtaining a configurationally stable phosphane oxide. Density functional calculations showed almost equal energies of the three possible triaryl phosphane oxides (MMM)‐1, (PPP)‐1, and (MP)‐1. Surprisingly, after synthesis only the MMM conformer is present in solution, and its configurational stability was proved by variable‐temperature and 2D NMR experiments as well as CD measurements. In view of the results of the DFT calculations, formation of stable (MMM)‐1 cannot be explained thermodynamically but by kinetic reaction control. This concept of freezing the conformation of a triaryl phosphane oxide can in future be used to easily prepare configurationally stable stereoisomeric propellerlike compounds.
Ruthenium Bidentate Phosphine Complexes for the Coordination and Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Amine– and Phosphine–Boranes
Authors: Ledger Araminta E. W. , Ellul Charles E. , Mahon Mary F. , Williams Jonathan M. J. , Whittlesey Michael K.
Published: June 2011

Addition of the amine–boranes H3B⋅NH2tBu, H3B⋅NHMe2 and H3B⋅NH3 to the cationic ruthenium fragment [Ru(xantphos)(PPh3)(OH2)H][BArF4] (2; xantphos=4,5‐bis(diphenylphosphino)‐9,9‐dimethylxanthene; BArF4=[B{3,5‐(CF3)2C6H3}4]−) affords the η1‐BH bound amine–borane complexes [Ru(xantphos)(PPh3)(H3B⋅NH2tBu)H][BArF4] (5), [Ru(xantphos)(PPh3)(H3B⋅NHMe2)H][BArF4] (6) and [Ru(xantphos)(PPh3)(H3B⋅NH3)H][BArF4] (7). The X‐ray crystal structures of 5 and 7 have been determined with [BArF4] and [BPh4] anions, respectively. Treatment of 2 with H3B⋅PHPh2 resulted in quite different behaviour, with cleavage of the BP interaction taking place to generate the structurally characterised bis‐secondary phosphine complex [Ru(xantphos)(PHPh2)2H][BPh4] (9). The xantphos complexes 2, 5 and 9 proved to be poor precursors for the catalytic dehydrogenation of H3B⋅NHMe2. While the dppf species (dppf=1,1′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene) [Ru(dppf)(PPh3)HCl] (3) and [Ru(dppf)(η6‐C6H5PPh2)H][BArF4] (4) showed better, but still moderate activity, the agostic‐stabilised N‐heterocyclic carbene derivative [Ru(dppf)(ICy)HCl] (12; ICy=1,3‐dicyclohexylimidazol‐2‐ylidene) proved to be the most efficient catalyst with a turnover number of 76 h−1 at room temperature.
A Biomimetic Principle for the Chemical Modification of Metal Surfaces: Synthesis of Tripodal Catecholates as Analogues of Siderophores and Mussel Adhesion Proteins
Authors: Franzmann Elisa , Khalil Faiza , Weidmann Christoph , Schröder Michael , Rohnke Marcus , Janek Jürgen , Smarsly Bernd M. , Maison Wolfgang
Published: June 2011

By following a biomimetic design principle, tetravalent scaffolds based on an adamantyl and trisalkylmethyl core structure have been synthesized. These scaffolds have been coupled to three catecholamines, thus resembling the characteristic tripodal recognition motif of many natural metal binders, such as mussel adhesion proteins and siderophores, for example, enterobactin. Besides this tripodal recognition element, our scaffolds provide a fourth position for the conjugation of effector molecules. These effectors can be conjugated through biocompatible conjugation techniques to the scaffold and can be used to tailor the properties of different metal surfaces for a range of applications, for example, in implant engineering. Herein, we describe the synthesis of several tripodal metal binders and their immobilization on TiO2 surfaces by using a simple dip‐coating procedure. Furthermore, we demonstrate the conjugation of our surface binders to the dye eosin Y as an effector molecule by peptide coupling. The resulting surfaces have been analyzed by using ellipsometry, time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, IR spectroscopy, and contact‐angle measurements to confirm the specific loading on TiO2 films and nanoparticles with our trivalent surface binders. As a proof of concept, we have demonstrated the functionalization of TiO2 nanoparticles with the eosin Y dye.
The Use of Electronic Brokerage Systems in China: A Modified e‐Commerce Model
Authors: Chen Gene
Published: June 2011

I applied the DeLone and McLean (2004) information systems success model to the use of electronic brokerage systems in China. Several modifications to the model are proposed, including the addition of specific measures of customer perceptions concerning both the perceived costs and benefits of using such systems. Structural equation modelling revealed that the DeLone and McLean (2004) model is not a good representation of those who use electronic brokerage systems for cross‐national transactions, but that the modified model is a good fit for all customers. Copyright © 2011 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Efficacy and Safety of Sildenafil in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Associated With the Different Types of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Zeng Wei‐Jie , Lu Xian‐Ling , Xiong Chang‐Ming , Shan Guang‐Liang , Liu Zhi‐Hong , Ni Xin‐Hai , Gu Qing , Zhao Zhi‐Hui , Li Jian‐Jun , He Jian‐Guo ,   on behalf of the Sildenafil Therapy on Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Associated With Different Types of Congenital Heart Disease Study Group
Published: June 2011

Background:

The difference in underlying pathophysiology in different congenital heart disease (CHD) may have an influence on clinical outcome. It remains unclear whether the effect of sildenafil on pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) varies in different types of CHD.

Hypothesis:

The potential effect of sildenafil on pulmonary arterial hypertension related to CHD may be associated with shunt location.

Methods:

In this 12‐week, prospective, open label, multicenter trial, 55 patients with CHD were divided into the 3 groups: atrial septal defects group (ASD, n = 15), ventricular septal defects group (VSD, n = 24), and patent ductus arteriosus group (PDA, n = 16). Exercise capacity, hemodynamic parameters, and arterial oxygen saturation were assessed at baseline and after sildenafil therapy (25 mg, 3 times daily).

Results:

Six‐minute walk distance significantly increased from 377.2 ± 68.7 m to 436.0 ± 70.4 m in patients with ASD, from 371.2 ± 66.0 m to 413.7 ± 83.1 m in VSD, and from 384.3 ± 90.2 m to 440.9 ± 71.8 m in PDA (P<0.01, respectively). Moreover, sildenafil also improved the pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary blood flow index in the 3 groups, whereas no significant changes in systemic vascular resistance and systemic arterial pressure were observed. However, arterial oxygen saturation was significantly improved in the ASD group only. The incidence of adverse events was similar among the 3 groups.

Conclusions:

Sildenafil therapy seems to be effective and safe for PAH secondary to ASD, VSD, and PDA, although some clinical and hemodynamic parameters were changed in a different manner among the 3 groups. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

This study was partly supported by National Grant from The Ministry of Science and Technology (2006BAI01A07) and Capital Development Scientific Fund (2005‐1018). The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.

Study Group participants are listed in the Supporting Information Appendix.