bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation and abandonment of mechanized rain‐fed agricultural land in the Southern Gadarif region, Sudan: the local farmers' perception
Authors: Sulieman H. M. , Buchroithner M. F.
Published: January 2009

In the Gadarif Region of Sudan, destruction of the natural vegetation for agricultural expansion is one of the major causes of the degradation of renewable resources and the environment. This study identifies and analyses the farmers' attitudes and perceptions towards agricultural land degradation and abandonment. The cross‐sectional data collected from ten key informants and 41 large‐scale farmers focussed on the degradation and abandonment of mechanized agricultural land. The results of the study show that the respondents are well aware that soil degradation is in various forms are taking place on their cultivated agricultural land. This is based on their perception and interpretation of indicators such as weed infestation, poor soil fertility and soil compaction. Continuous cropping, mono‐cropping, rainfall shortage and the use of inferior seeds are the main reasons of land degradation as indicated by farmers. The main measures acknowledged to maintain and improve land productivity are repeated soil ploughing, abandonment/fallow periods and crop rotation.

The study adduces evidence of widespread land degradation. The mitigation measures followed by the farmers may though not be sufficient to restore the soil fertility. The application of appropriate chemical fertilizers, sound crop rotation and long fallow periods can be recommended. Any management and research intervention regarding the problem of land degradation should; however, be concerted with the farmers' knowledge. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of inhibitory rTMS on bladder function in Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Brusa Livia , Agrò Enrico Finazzi , Petta Filomena , Sciobica Francesco , Torriero Sara , Lo Gerfo Emanuele , Iani Cesare , Stanzione Paolo , Koch Giacomo
Published: January 2009

Patients affected by Parkinson's disease (PD) may present with lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction characterized by involuntary detrusor overactivity. We evaluated possible impact of a 2‐week course of low frequency 1 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on LUT behavior in eight advanced PD patients complaining of urinary disturbances. We tested the effects of rTMS measuring urodynamic examination and the International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) questionnaire, used for evaluation of subjective LUTS. rTMS was able to improve temporarily LUT behavior in PD patients, increasing bladder capacity and the first sensation of filling phase. Moreover, a reduction of IPSS score was noticed, due to an improvement on filling phase symptoms. The beneficial effects assessed with the IPSS lasted for up to 2 weeks after the end of the stimulation. rTMS seems to be an effective, noninvasive alternative treatment for PD patients with urinary disturbances. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Funding of Parkinson research from industry and US federal and foundation sources
Authors: Dorsey E. Ray , Thompson Joel P. , Frasier Mark , Sherer Todd , Fiske Brian , Nicholson Sean , Johnston S. Claiborne , Holloway Robert G. , Moses Hamilton
Published: January 2009

Funding for biomedical and neuroscience research has increased over the last decade but without a concomitant increase in new therapies. This study's objectives were to determine the level and principal sources of recent funding for Parkinson disease (PD) research and to determine the current state of PD drug development. We determined the level and principal sources of recent funding for PD research from the following sources: US federal agencies, large PD foundations based in the United States, and global industry. We assessed the status of PD drug development through the use of a proprietary drug pipeline database. Funding for PD research from the sources examined was approximately $1.1 billion in 2003 and $1.2 billion in 2005. Industry accounted for 77% of support from 2003 to 2005. The number of drugs in development for PD increased from 67 in 2003 to 97 in 2007. Of the companies with at least one compound in development for PD in 2007, most were small (62% had annual revenue of less than $100 million), and most (53%) were based outside the United States. These companies will likely require partnerships to drive successful development of new PD therapies. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Formation of microporous poly(hydroxybutyric acid) membranes for culture of osteoblast and fibroblast
Authors: Huag Han‐Shiang , Chou Shiu‐Huey , Don Trong‐Ming , Lai Wei‐Chi , Cheng Liao‐Ping
Published: January 2009

Microporous membranes of a biodegradable polymer, poly(hydroxybutyric acid) (PHB), were prepared by a phase‐inversion process and their cell compatibility was evaluated in vitro. A ternary system, ethanol/chloroform/PHB, was employed to prepare the membranes, wherein ethanol and chloroform were served as the nonsolvent and solvent for PHB, respectively. In the phase‐inversion process, the polymer dissolution temperature was varied from 80 to 120°C to yield membranes with specific morphologies, such as globular particles, porous channels, etc. Moreover, cell viability was examined on the formed membranes. Two cell lines, osteoblast hFOB1.19 and fibroblast L929, were cultured in vitro. It was found that these two types of cells exhibited different responses on different membranes: the hFOB1.19 cells showed significant increase in cell proliferation with increase in surface roughness, whereas the L929 cells demonstrated an opposite trend, preferring to attach and grow on a flat surface. PHB membranes with different morphologies exhibit different cell compatibilities, which may be useful means for the architectural design of materials for tissue engineering. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Control of stereochemical structures of silicon‐containing polymeric systems
Authors: Kawakami Yusuke , Kakihana Yuriko , Ooi Osamu , Oishi Motoi , Suzuki Keigo , Shinke Satoshi , Uenishi Kazuya
Published: January 2009

Various optically active silicon compounds have been synthesized or separated, and used to synthesize silicon‐containing polymers with well‐controlled stereochemical structures. Hydrosilylation, anionic ring‐opening polymerization and cross‐coupling reactions have been used to synthesize optically active and/or stereoregular silicon‐containing polymers. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Unintended molecular interactions in transgenic plants expressing clinically useful proteins: The case of bovine aprotinin traveling the potato leaf cell secretory pathway
Authors: Badri M. Amine , Rivard Daniel , Coenen Karine , Michaud Dominique
Published: January 2009

We assessed the impact of subcellular targeting on the heterologous expression of a clinically useful protease inhibitor, bovine aprotinin, in leaves of potato,Solanum tuberosum. Transgenic potato lines targeting aprotinin to the cytosol, the ER or the apoplast were first generated, and then assessed for their ability to accumulate the recombinant protein. On‐chip detection and quantitation of aprotinin variants by SELDI TOF MS showed the inhibitor to be absent in the cytosol, but present under different forms in the ER and the apoplast. No visible phenotypic effects of aprotinin were observed for the transgenic lines, but aprotinin retention in the ER was associated with a significant decrease of leaf soluble protein content. A 2‐D gel assessment of control and transgenic lines revealed a possible link between this altered protein content and the down‐regulation of proteins implicated in protein synthesis and maturation. These observations, supported by complementary 2‐DE analyses with potato lines targeting aprotinin to the apoplast, suggest an aprotinin‐mediated feedbackin plantanegatively altering protein anabolism. From a practical viewpoint, these data illustrate the importance of taking into account not only the characteristics of recombinant proteins expressed in heterologous environments, but also their possible effects on protein accumulation in the host plant factory.
The proteome of Salmonella Typhimurium grown under in vivo‐mimicking conditions
Authors: Sonck Kathleen A. J. , Kint Gwendoline , Schoofs Geert , Vander Wauven Corinne , Vanderleyden Jos , De Keersmaecker Sigrid C. J.
Published: January 2009

To successfully infect a host, it is a prerequisite for enteric pathogens such as Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium to adapt to their environment, in casu the gastrointestinal tract. The adoption of an appropriate lifestyle is triggered by environmental signals such as the low oxygen availability and high osmolarity prevalent in the gut. In order to gain more insight in the changes that are induced when S. Typhimurium is adapting to these particular conditions, we used 2‐D DIGE technology to investigate the combined effect of low oxygen tension and high osmolarity on the proteome of S. Typhimurium SL1344 compared to standard laboratory conditions. As a validation of the 2‐D DIGE technique, preferential protein labeling by the Cy‐dyes was assessed and proved to be negligible. The differentially expressed proteins identified reflect very well the applied culture conditions. Furthermore, reported transcriptional changes and observed changes at the translational level show overlap. Among the metabolic processes that are upregulated under in vivo‐mimicking conditions are anaerobic fumarate respiration and the utilization of 1,2‐propanediol. We also provide evidence that S. Typhimurium expresses an arginine deiminase pathway for the catabolism of L‐arginine. The increased activity of this pathway was biochemically validated. Finally, also proteins involved in quorum sensing and virulence are differentially expressed under in vivo‐mimicking conditions. These conditions offer possibilities as a simplified model system for the host environment given the high overlap of identifications in our study and reported genuine in vivo studies, respectively.
Effects of green tea extract on lung cancer A549 cells: Proteomic identification of proteins associated with cell migration
Authors: Lu Qing‐Yi , Yang Yanan , Jin Yu Sheng , Zhang Zuo‐Feng , Heber David , Li Frederick P. , Dubinett Steven M. , Sondej Melissa A. , Loo Joseph A. , Rao Jian Yu
Published: January 2009

Green tea polyphenols exhibit multiple antitumor activities, and the mechanisms of action are not completely understood. Previously, we reported that green tea extract (GTE)‐induced actin remolding is associated with increased cell adhesion and decreased motility in A549 lung cancer cells. To identify the cellular targets responsible for green tea‐induced actin remodeling, we performed 2‐DE LC‐MS/MS of A549 cells before and after GTE exposure. We have identified 14 protein spots that changed in expression (≥2‐fold) after GTE treatment. These proteins are involved in calcium‐binding, cytoskeleton and motility, metabolism, detoxification, or gene regulation. In particular we found upregulation of several genes that modulate actin remodeling and cell migration, including lamin A/C. Our data indicated that GTE‐induced lamin A/C upregulation appears to be at the transcriptional level and the increased expression results in the decrease in cell motility, as confirmed by siRNA. The result of the study demonstrates that GTE alters the levels of many proteins involved in growth, motility and apoptosis of A549 cells and their identification may explain the multiple antitumor activities of GTE.
Insights into yeast adaptive response to the agricultural fungicide mancozeb: A toxicoproteomics approach
Authors: Santos Pedro M. , Simões Tânia , Sá‐Correia Isabel
Published: January 2009

Toxicogenomics has the potential to elucidate gene–environment interactions to identify genes that are affected by a particular chemical at the early stages of the toxicological response and to establish parallelisms between different organisms. The fungicide mancozeb, widely used in agriculture, is an ethylene‐bis‐dithiocarbamate complex with manganese and zinc. Exposure to this pesticide has been linked to the development of idiopathic Parkinson's disease and cancer. Given that many signalling pathways and their molecular components are substantially conserved among eukaryotic organisms, we usedSaccharomyces cerevisiaeto get insights into the molecular mechanisms of mancozeb toxicity and adaptation based on expression proteomics. The early global response to mancozeb was analysed by quantitative proteomics using 2‐DE. The target genes (e.g.TSA1,TSA2,SOD1,SOD2,AHP1,GRE2,GRX1,CYS3,PRE3,PRE6,PRE8,PRE9,EFT1,RPS5,TIF11,HSP31,HSP26,HSP104,HSP60,HSP70‐family) and the putative main transcription activators (e.g. Yap1, Msn2/Msn4, Met4, Hsf1, Aft1, Pdr1, Skn7, Rpn4p, Gcn4) of the complex mancozeb‐induced expression changes are related with yeast response to stress, in particular to oxidative stress, protein translation initiation and protein folding, disassembling of protein aggregates and degradation of damaged proteins. Our results also suggest that this study provided powerful indications that may be useful to expand the knowledge obtained in yeast not only to the global response to mancozeb toxicity in phytopathogenic fungi but also to humans.
Comparative proteomics of leaf, stem, and root tissues of synthetic Brassica napus
Authors: Albertin Warren , Langella Olivier , Joets Johann , Négroni Luc , Zivy Michel , Damerval Catherine , Thiellement Hervé
Published: January 2009

Comparative proteomics was applied to three vegetative organs of Brassica napus, the leaf, stem, and root using 2‐DE. Among the >1600 analyzed spots, 43% were found to be common to all three organs, suggesting the existence of a “basal” or ubiquitous proteome composed of housekeeping proteins. The green organs, leaf, and stem, were closely related (∼80% common spots) while the root displayed more organ‐specific polypeptides (∼10%). Reference maps were established using MS, allowing the identification of 93, 385, and 266 proteins in leaf, stem, and root proteomes, respectively. Bioinformatic analyses were also performed; in silico functional categorization and cellular localization allow obtaining a precise picture of the cell molecular network within vegetative organs. These proteome maps can be explored using the PROTICdb software at the following address: http://bioinformatique.moulon.inra.fr/proticdb/web_view/.
Analysis of the subproteomes of proteinases and heparin‐binding toxins of eight Bothrops venoms
Authors: Leme Adriana F. Paes , Kitano Eduardo S. , Furtado Maria F. , Valente Richard H. , Camargo Antonio C. M. , Ho Paulo L. , Fox Jay W. , Serrano Solange M. T.
Published: January 2009

Viperid snakes show the most complex snake‐venom proteomes and offer an intriguing challenge in terms of understanding the nature of their components and the pathological outcomes of envenomation characterized by local and systemic effects. In this work, the venom complexity of eight Bothrops species was analyzed by 2‐DE, and their subproteomes of proteinases were explored by 2‐D immunostaining and 2‐D gelatin zymography, demonstrating the diversity of their profiles. Heparin, a highly sulfated glycosaminoglycan released from mast cells, is involved in anti‐coagulant and anti‐inflammatory processes. Here, we explored the hypothesis that heparin released upon envenomation could interact with toxins and interfere with venom pathogenesis. We first identified the Bothrops venom subproteome of toxins that bind with high‐affinity for heparin as composed of mainly serine proteinases and C‐type lectins. Next, we explored the Bothrops jararaca toxins that bind to heparin under physiological conditions and identified a relationship between the subproteomes of proteinases, and that of heparin‐binding toxins. Only the non‐bound fraction, composed mainly of metalloproteinases, showed lethal and hemorrhagic activities, whereas the heparin‐bound fraction contained mainly serine proteinases associated with coagulant and fibrinogenolytic activities. These data suggest that heparin binding to B. jararaca venom components in vivo has a minor protective effect to venom toxicity.
Analysis of outer membrane porin complexes of Neisseria meningitidis in wild‐type and specific knock‐out mutant strains
Authors: Marzoa Juan , Abel Ana , Sánchez Sandra , Chan Hannah , Feavers Ian , Criado María Teresa , Ferreirós Carlos M.
Published: January 2009

The structure of the porin complexes of Neisseria meningitidis was assessed in the vaccine strain H44/76 and its homologous mutants lacking the main porins (PorA and PorB) and other outer membrane (OM) components (RmpM and FetA). The analysis using 1‐D blue native (BN) electrophoresis, 2‐D BN/SDS‐PAGE and 2‐D diagonal electrophoresis, followed by LC/MS‐MS (for 1‐D gels) or MALDI‐TOF (for 2‐D gels) revealed at least six porin complexes in the wild‐type strain with molecular masses (MW) ranging from 145 to 195 kDa and variable composition: The two higher MW complexes are formed by PorA, PorB and RmpM, the following three are formed by PorA and PorB, and the lower MW one is formed by only PorB. Complexes in the mutants lacking either PorA, PorB or RmpM, but not those in the mutant lacking FetA, were alterered respect to those in the wild‐type strain. The most evident alteration was seen in the mutant lacking PorB, in which PorA formed only a high MW complex (≈︂800 kDa). Our results suggest that PorA and PorB could form a ‘basic’ template for the transportation systems in the OM of the meningococci. Other proteins (such as RmpM) could be transiently associated to the porin complexes, depending on the specific tranport needs at different stages of the meningococcal life cycle, resulting in a dynamic net of pores of variable composition.
The neuropeptidome of Rhodnius prolixus brain
Authors: Ons Sheila , Richter Florian , Urlaub Henning , Pomar Rolando Rivera
Published: January 2009

We show a sensitive and straightforward off‐line nano‐LC‐MALDI‐MS/MS workflow that allowed the first comprehensive neuropeptidomic analysis of an insect disease vector. This approach was applied to identify neuropeptides in the brain of Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease. This work will contribute to the annotation of genes in the ongoing R. prolixus genome sequence project. Peptides were identified by de novo sequencing and comparisons to known neuropeptides from different organisms by database search. By these means, we were able to identify 42 novel neuropeptides from R. prolixus. The peptides were classified as extended FMRF‐amide‐related peptides, sulfakinins, myosuppressins, short neuropeptide F, long neuropeptide F, SIF‐amide‐related peptides, tachykinins, orcokinins, allatostatins, allatotropins, calcitonin‐like diuretic hormones, corazonin, and pyrokinin. Some of them were detected in multiple isoforms and/or truncated fragments. Interestingly, some of the R. prolixus peptides, as myosuppressin and sulfakinins, are unique in their characteristic C‐terminal domain among insect neuropeptides identified so far.
Syndiotactic‐specific radical polymerization of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide in the presence of tartrates: A proposed mechanism for the polymerization
Authors: Hirano Tomohiro , Masuda Shuhei , Nasu Shou , Ute Koichi , Sato Tsuneyuki
Published: January 2009

Radical polymerization of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMAAm) was investigated in the presence of tartrates, such as diethyl L‐tartrate, diisopropyl L‐tartrate, and di‐n‐butyl L‐tartrate, in toluene at low temperatures. Syndiotactic polymers were obtained in the presence of tartrates, whereas isotactic polymers were obtained in the absence of tartrates. The syndiotactic‐specificity increased with increasing amount of tartrates and with decreasing polymerization temperature. NMR analysis suggested that DMAAm and tartrates formed a 1:1 complex through double hydrogen bonding. A mechanism for the syndiotactic‐specific radical polymerization of DMAAm is proposed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 1192–1203, 2009
Connecting humor, health, and masculinities at prostate cancer support groups
Authors: Oliffe John L. , Ogrodniczuk John , Bottorff Joan L. , Hislop T. Gregory , Halpin Michael
Published: January 2009

Objective: Many commentaries about men's health practices and masculinities indicate that men do not typically engage with self‐health or acknowledge illness, let alone openly discuss their health concerns with other men. Prostate cancer support groups (PCSGs) appear to run contrary to such ideals, yet the factors that influence men's attendance and engagement at group meetings are poorly understood. As part of a larger PCSG study, we noticed that humor was central to many group interactions and this prompted us to examine the connections between humor, health, and masculinities.

Methods: A qualitative ethnographic design was used to direct fieldwork and conduct participant observations at the meetings of 16 PCSGs in British Columbia, Canada. Individual semi‐structured interviews were completed with 54 men who attended PCSGs to better understand their perceptions about the use of humor at group meetings.

Results: Four themes, disarming stoicism, marking the boundaries, rekindling and reformulating men's sexuality, and when humor goes south were drawn from the analyses. Overall, humor was used to promote inclusiveness, mark the boundaries for providing and receiving mutual help, and develop masculine group norms around men's sexuality. Although there were many benefits to humor there were also some instances when well‐intended banter caused discomfort for attendees.

Conclusions: The importance of group leadership was central to preserving the benefits of humor, and the specificities of how humor is used at PCSGs may provide direction for clinical practice and the design of future community‐based men's health promotion programs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How children cope when a parent has advanced cancer
Authors: Kennedy Vida L. , Lloyd‐Williams Mari
Published: January 2009

Objective: When parents are diagnosed with cancer, children experience significant distress. There is little information regarding the nature of this distress and how children cope, particularly when a parent is diagnosed with advanced cancer. This study aimed to explore how children cope, and to identify areas where there may be barriers to children accessing support to enable them to cope.

Methods: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with ill parents with advanced cancer and well parents and/or any children above the age of 7. Interviews were recorded and transcribed fully, and analysed using a constructionist grounded theory approach.

Results: Twenty‐eight family participants were interviewed. Four major themes emerged from the data including response to diagnosis, mechanisms of coping, life changes, and positive aspects. Children described being distressed by their parents diagnosis and having concerns related to their parents and their own health. Distraction and maintaining normality were described as the dominant strategies of coping for children, and increased responsibilities and decreased social activity were considered to be the most noticeable of life changes. Parents did not recognise the impact on children to the same degree as described by children and focused on limiting the impact by maintaining normality. Positive aspects described by children and parents included strengthening of relationships and learning to value family members and the important things in life.

Conclusions: Open communication within the family may lead to more effective coping and a positive experience for children whose parents have been diagnosed with advanced cancer. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of lipid‐binding properties of the N‐terminal helical segments in human apolipoprotein A‐I using fragment peptides
Authors: Tanaka Masafumi , Tanaka Toshitaka , Ohta Shinya , Kawakami Toru , Konno Hiroyuki , Akaji Kenichi , Aimoto Saburo , Saito Hiroyuki
Published: January 2009

Although the N‐terminal region in human apolipoprotein (apo) A‐I is thought to stabilize the lipid‐free structure of the protein, its role in lipid binding is unknown. Using synthetic fragment peptides, we examined the lipid‐binding properties of the first 43 residues (1–43) of apoA‐I in comparison with residues 44–65 and 220–241, which have strong lipid affinity in the molecule. Circular dichroism measurements demonstrated that peptides corresponding to each segment have potential propensity to form α‐helical structure in trifluoroethanol. Spectroscopic and thermodynamic measurements revealed that apoA‐I (1–43) peptide has the strong ability to bind to lipid vesicles and to form α‐helical structure comparable to apoA‐I (220–241) peptide. Substitution of Tyr‐18 located at the center of the most hydrophobic region in residues 1–43 with a helix‐breaking proline resulted in the impaired lipid binding, indicating that the α‐helical structure in this region is required to trigger the lipid binding. In contrast, apoA‐I (44–65) peptide exhibited a lower propensity to form α‐helical structure upon binding to lipid, and apoA‐I (44–65/S55P) peptide exhibited diminished, but not completely impaired, lipid binding, suggesting that the central region of residues 44–65 is not pivotally involved in the formation of the α‐helical structure and lipid binding. These results indicate that the most N‐terminal region of apoA‐I molecule, residues 1–43, contributes to the lipid interaction of apoA‐I through the hydrophobic helical residues. Copyright © 2008 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Halocyntin and papillosin, two new antimicrobial peptides isolated from hemocytes of the solitary tunicate, Halocynthia papillosa
Authors: Galinier Richard , Roger Emmanuel , Sautiere Pierre‐Eric , Aumelas Andre , Banaigs Bernard , Mitta Guillaume
Published: January 2009

We report here the screening of five marine invertebrate species from two taxa (tunicates and echinoderms) for the presence of cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMP) in defence cells (hemocytes). Antimicrobial activities were detected only in the two tunicates Microcosmus sabatieri and Halocynthia papillosa. In addition, we report the isolation and characterization of two novel peptides from H. papillosa hemocytes. These molecules display antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. Complete peptide characterization was obtained by a combination of Edman degradation and mass spectrometry. The mature molecules, named halocyntin and papillosin, comprise 26 and 34 amino acid residues, respectively. Their primary structure display no significant similarities with previously described AMP. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Density functional theory study on the ionization potentials and electron affinities of thymine–formamide complexes
Authors: Sun Haitao , Tang Ke , Li Yanmin , Su Chunfang , Zhou Zhengyu , Wang Zhizhong
Published: January 2009

The effect of hydrogen bond interactions on ionization potentials (IPs) and electron affinities (EAs) of thymine–formamide complexes (T–F) have been investigated employing the density functional theory B3LYP at 6‐311++G(d, p) basis set level. All complexes experience a geometrical change on either electron detachment or attachment, and the change might be facilitated or hindered according to the strength of the hydrogen‐bonding interaction involved. The strength of hydrogen bonds presents an opposite changing trend on the two processes. A more important role that H‐bonding interaction plays in the process of electron attachment than in the process of electron detachment can be seen by a comparison of the IPs and EAs of complexes with that of isolated thymine. Futhermore, the EAs of isolated thymine are in good agreement with the experimental values (AEA is 0.79 eV, VEA is −0.29 eV [Wetmore et al., Chem Phys Lett 2000, 322, 129]). The calculated total NPA charge distributions reveal that nearly all the negative charges locate on thymine monomer in the anions and even in the cationic states, there are a few negative charges on thymine monomer. An analysis of dissociation energies predicts the processes T–F+→ T++ F and T–F− → T− + F to be the most energetically favorable for T–F+ and T–F−, respectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Interference of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)‐containing inhalers with measurements of volatile compounds using selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry
Authors: Epton Michael J. , Ledingham Katherine , Dummer Jack , Hu Wan‐Ping , Rhodes Bronwen , Senthilmohan Senti T. , Scotter Jennifer M. , Allardyce Randall , Cook Julie , Swanney Maureen P.
Published: January 2009

Selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT‐MS) is a sensitive technique capable of measuring volatile compounds (VCs) in complex gas mixtures in real time; it is now being applied to breath analysis. We investigated the effect of inhalers containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on the detection and measurement of haloamines in human breath. SIFT‐MS mass scans (MS) and selected ion monitoring (SIM) scans were performed on three healthy non‐smoking volunteers before and after inhalation of the following medications: Combivent™ metered‐dose inhaler (MDI) (CFC‐containing); Ventolin™ MDI (CFC‐free); Atrovent™ MDI (CFC‐free), Beclazone™ MDI (CFC‐containing); Duolin™ nebuliser. In addition, the duration of the persistence of the mass/charge ratios was measured for 20 h. Inhalers containing CFCs generated large peaks at m/z 85, 87, 101, 103 and 105 in vitro and in vivo, consistent with the predicted product ions of CFCs 12, 114 and 11. No such peaks were seen with Duolin™ via nebuliser, or CFC‐free MDIs. We conclude that measurement of VCs, such as haloamines, with product ions of similar m/z values to the ions found for CFCs would be significantly affected by the presence of CFCs in inhalers. This issue needs to be accounted for prior to the measurement of VCs in breath in people using inhalers containing CFCs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The detection of various opiates and benzodiazepines by comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Guthery Bill , Bassindale Alan , Pillinger Colin T. , Morgan Geraint H.
Published: January 2009

A technique using comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC/TOFMS) is applied to qualitative and quantitative drug testing. Human serum was ‘spiked’ with known quantities of benzodiazepines and a ‘street heroin’ mixture including some of the major metabolites and impurities. The sample components were extracted from the matrix by solid‐phase extraction (SPE). Constituents containing polar hydroxyl and/or secondary amine groups were derivatised with N‐methyl‐N‐(tert‐butyldimethyl)trifluoroacetamide (MTBSTFA) to improve the chromatographic performance. An orthogonal separation of the matrix constituents was achieved by coupling a DB‐5ms (5% phenyl) to a BPX50 (50% phenyl) GC column. The eluant was focused onto the second column by a twin‐stage cryo‐modulator. Rapid 6 s modulation times were achieved by transfer from a 30 m × 0.25 mm (length × internal diameter) to a 2 m × 0.1 mm column. TOFMS with rapid spectral acquisition (≤500 spectra/s) was employed in the mass range m/z 40–650. A clean mass spectrum was obtained for each analyte using mass spectral deconvolution software. The sensitivity and repeatability of the method were evaluated by the preparation of calibration standards for two benzodiazepines, flunitrazepam and its major metabolite 7‐aminoflunitrazepam (7‐amino‐FN), in the concentration range 5–1000 ng/mL. The limits of detection (LODs) and limits of quantitation (LOQs), calculated by repeat injections (×10) of the lowest standard, were 1.6 and 5.4 ng/mL (flunitrazepam); 2.5 and 8.5 ng/mL (7‐amino‐FN), respectively. There is scope to extend this protocol to screen a large number of drugs and metabolites stored in a library database. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mass spectrometry in the characterization of ambers. II. Free succinic acid in fossil resins of different origin
Authors: Tonidandel Loris , Ragazzi Eugenio , Traldi Pietro
Published: January 2009

Baltic amber contains high levels of succinic acid, most of which is part of the polymer framework, and only recently has the presence of microcrystals of free succinic acid been documented by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis. The determination of succinic acid can be used for an easy identification of Baltic amber among other fossil resins and to distinguish it from imitations, widely diffused on the market, produced with natural or modified recent or sub‐fossil resins, such as copals. We report here a simple method, based on negative ion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, for evaluating the free succinic acid content in water/methanol extracts of ambers from different origin, using a sample of about 20 mg. The limit of quantification is better than 1 ppm and, when applied to a set of amber samples of different origin, it was able to distinguish those of Baltic origin (showing free succinic acid levels in the range 50–400 ppm) from the others (for which succinic acid was undetectable, i.e. at levels lower than 1 ppm). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An analytical strategy for identification of a somatotropin‐like bioactive peptide by ion trap liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry after immuno‐affinity purification from buffalo serum
Authors: Gallo Pasquale , Vinci Floriana , Fusco Giovanna , Serpe Luigi
Published: January 2009

The use of growth hormones, such as native and recombinant somatotropins, is forbidden in the European Union (EU), but is legal in the USA. The misuse of recombinant bovine somatotropin in Italy is suspected for enhancing milk production, thanks to its availability on the illegal market. A synthetic bioactive peptide of 27 amino acids derived from bovine somatotropin was successfully tested in France and in southern Italy for scientific purposes, to stimulate milk production, both in cows and buffaloes. This somatotropin‐like peptide (PEP‐ST), suspected for illegal use in southern Italy, was synthesized by linking the 104–113 sequence of bovine somatotropin to the 323–339 sequence of ovalbumin. Herein, a method for detection and identification of the PEP‐ST in buffalo serum is described; our strategy was based on the production of IgG anti‐PEP‐ST, used to synthesize an immuno‐affinity column for peptide purification from buffalo serum, prior to analysis by ion trap liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC/ESI‐MS/MS). The immuno‐affinity column was successfully used to purify in a single step the bioactive PEP‐ST from buffalo serum samples spiked at 20, 50 and 200 µg/mL for confirmatory analysis. Ion trap LC/ESI‐MS/MS identification was based on detection of a multi‐charged molecular ion and its characteristic fragmentation pattern. No significant matrix interference was observed, accounting for method specificity. We consider this strategy to be a basic approach that could be improved in the perspective of the official control of illegal use of somatotropin and somatotropin‐like compounds in buffalo breeding. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stereochemical differentiation of C‐7 hydroxyltaxane isomers by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Ge Guang‐Bo , Zhang Rong , Ai Chun‐Zhi , He Yu‐Qi , Zhang Yan‐Yan , Liu Xing‐Bao , Yang Li , Wang Zheng‐Tao , Yang Ling
Published: January 2009

In this study, different electrospray ionization mass spectrometric (ESI‐MS) methods were utilized to analyze several pairs of taxane stereoisomers including paclitaxel and 7‐epi‐paclitaxel. Both ESI‐MS and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) techniques provided stereochemically dependent mass spectra in negative‐ion mode, and all studied stereoisomers could be easily distinguished based on their characteristic ions or distinct fragmentation patterns. MS/MS experiments for several taxane analogues at various collision energies were performed to elucidate potential dissociation pathways. The gas‐phase deprotonation potentials were also calculated to estimate the most thermodynamically favorable deprotonation site using DFT B3LYP/6‐31G(d). The results of the theoretical studies agreed well with the fragmentation patterns of paclitaxel and 7‐epi‐paclitaxel observed from MS/MS experiments. In addition, it was found that liquid chromatography (LC)/ESI‐MS was a useful and sensitive technique for assignment of C‐7 taxane stereoisomers from realistic samples. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transmission mode ion/ion reactions in the radiofrequency‐only ion guide of hybrid tandem mass spectrometers
Authors: Emory Joshua F. , Hassell Kerry H. , Londry Frank A. , McLuckey Scott A.
Published: January 2009

Transmission mode ion/ion reactions have been performed within the first quadrupole, the Q0 radiofrequency (RF)‐only quadrupole, of two types of hybrid tandem mass spectrometers (viz., triple quadrupole/linear ion trap and QqTOF instruments). These transmission mode reactions involved the storage of either the reagent species and the transmission of the analyte species through the Q0 quadrupole for charge inversion reactions or the storage of the analyte ions and transmission of the reagent ions as in charge reduction experiments. A key advantage to the use of transmission mode ion/ion reactions is that they do not require any instrument hardware modifications to provide interactions of oppositely charged ions and can be implemented in any instrument that contains a quadrupole or linear ion trap. The focus of this work was to investigate the potential of using the RF‐only quadrupole ion guide positioned prior to the first mass‐resolving element in a tandem mass spectrometer for ion/ion reactions. Two types of exemplary experiments have been demonstrated. One involved a charge inversion reaction and the other involved a charge reduction reaction in conjunction with ion parking. Ion/ion reactions proved to be readily implemented in Q0 thereby adding significantly greater experimental flexibility in the use of ion/ion reaction experiments with hybrid tandem mass spectrometers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Climatic factors influencing the isotope composition of Italian olive oils and geographic characterisation
Authors: Iacumin Paola , Bernini Luni , Boschetti Tiziano
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this study was to investigate the possibility of identifying oil source areas by means of simple measurements on the natural samples avoiding time‐consuming sample treatments. The oxygen and carbon isotopic values of 150 samples of extra‐virgin olive oil from eight different Italian regions and from three different years of production were measured according to well‐established techniques. Statistical treatments of the results obtained show a very good correlation of the δ18O of oil with latitude, mean annual temperature, and mean relative humidity at the collection site. No correlation is found with elevation and mean annual precipitation. The shift of the oil δ18O per degree centigrade of the mean annual temperature is quantitatively close to that calculated for atmospheric precipitation in continental areas. Accordingly, in our measurements, the year of oil production can be identified on the basis of the δ18O value (mean 2004 temperatures were higher than 2005 temperatures). On the contrary, the oil δ13C values show no correlation with the above variables but only with latitude and, consequently, are less suitable for discriminating the geographic origin of oil. However, the δ13C values are suitable to indicate biological differentiation while the δ18O values are not. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Data scaling for quantitative imaging XPS
Authors: Walton John , Fairley Neal
Published: January 2009

XPS spectrum image data sets acquired on laboratory instruments have inherently poor signal/noise, and require the use of multivariate analytical techniques to avoid prohibitively long acquisition times. However, when procedures that order the data by variance are used, the data set must be scaled beforehand, since it has a Poisson distribution. Different scaling methods may be used, but their effectiveness in allowing a separation of the chemical information from the noise is critical if loss of information is to be avoided. The performance of three methods, square root, root mean square and optimal scaling, has been compared, and their effectiveness for quantitative photoelectron spectromicroscopy is discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role conflicts, emotional exhaustion and health problems: a study of police officers in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Chia‐huei
Published: January 2009

This study focused on the role conflicts faced by police officers in Taiwan and investigated the relationship between role conflicts, emotional exhaustion and health problems based on the job demands and resources model (JD‐R model). Firstly, in addition to work–family conflict, an inter‐role conflict, this study identified an intrasender role conflict for police officers called uncompromising‐friendly conflict. Secondly, according to the JD‐R model, it was hypothesized that emotional exhaustion has a complete mediation effect on the relationships between role conflicts and health problems. The survey data in Huang's study were analysed. A total of 672 police officers at Kaohsiung, Taiwan provided completed data for analysis. Correlation analysis showed that role conflicts, emotional exhaustion and health problems were positively correlated. Results of the structural equation model further suggested that the positive effect of role conflicts on health problems was partially mediated by emotional exhaustion. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concepts of scale held by students with visual impairment
Authors: Jones M. Gail , Taylor Amy R. , Broadwell Bethany
Published: January 2009

This study investigated students' with visual impairment concepts about linear size and scale. Specifically the study examined the accuracy of students' concepts over many orders of magnitude as well as experiences students have had in and out‐of‐school learning about size and scale. The results of assessments of 17 students with visual impairment were compared to those of students with normal sight. The study showed that students with visual impairment were most accurate for measurements in the human scale and were least accurate with very large and very small scales that cannot be directly experienced. However, when compared to students with normal sight, students with visual impairment were more accurate at large and small scales than their normally sighted peers. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 46: 506–519, 2009
A Prospective Randomized Trial Comparing Traditional and Fast‐Track Patient Care in Elective Open Infrarenal Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Muehling Bernd , Schelzig Hubert , Steffen Peter , Meierhenrich Rainer , Sunder‐Plassmann Ludger , Orend Karl‐Heinz
Published: January 2009

Background

Fast‐track recovery programs have led to reduced patient morbidity and mortality after major surgery. In terms of elective open infrarenal aneurysm repair, no evidence is available about such programs. To address this issue, we have conducted a randomized prospective pilot study.

Methods

The study involved prospective randomization of 101 patients with the indication for elective open aneurysm repair in a traditional and a fast‐track treatment arm. The basic fast‐track elements were no bowel preparation, reduced preoperative fasting, patient‐controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA), enhanced postoperative feeding, and postoperative mobilization. Morbidity and mortality, need for postoperative mechanical ventilation, length of stay (LOS) in the intensive care unit (ICU) and total length of postoperative hospital stay were analyzed in terms of an intention to treat.

Results

Demographic data for the two groups were similar. In the fast‐track group the need for postoperative ventilation was significantly lower (6.1% versus 32%; p = 0.002), the median LOS on ICU did not significantly differ (20 h versus 32 h; p = 0.183), full enteral feeding was achieved significantly earlier (5 versus 7 days; p < 0.0001), and the rate of postoperative medical complications—gastrointestinal, cardiac, pulmonary, renal, and infective—was significantly lower (16% versus 36%; p = 0.039). The postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the fast‐track group (10 days versus 11 days; p = 0.016); the mortality rate in both groups was 0%.

Conclusions

An optimized patient care program in open infrarenal aortic aneurysm repair shows favorable results concerning need for postoperative assisted mechanical ventilation, time to full enteral feeding, and incidence of medical complications. Further ranomized multicentric trials are necessary to justify broad implementation (clinical trials. gov identifier NCT 00615888).
Democracy-Enhancing Multilateralism
Authors: Keohane Robert O. , Macedo Stephen , Moravcsik Andrew
Published: January 2009

International organizations are widely believed to undermine domestic democracy. Our analysis challenges this conventional wisdom, arguing that multilateral institutions can enhance the quality of national democratic processes, even in well-functioning democracies, in a number of important ways: by restricting the power of special interest factions, protecting individual rights, and improving the quality of democratic deliberation, while also increasing capacities to achieve important public purposes. The article discusses conflicts and complementarities between multilateralism and democracy, outlines a working conception of constitutional democracy, elaborates theoretically the ways in which multilateral institutions can enhance constitutional democracy, and discusses the empirical conditions under which multilateralism is most likely to have net democratic benefits, using contemporary examples to illustrate the analysis. The overall aim is to articulate a set of critical democratic standards appropriate for evaluating and helping to guide the reform of international institutions.
Oil, Nontax Revenue, and the Redistributional Foundations of Regime Stability
Authors: Morrison Kevin M.
Published: January 2009

Nontax revenues make up a substantial amount of government revenue around the world, though scholars usually focus on individual sources of such revenue (for example, foreign aid and state-owned oil companies). Using a theory of regime change that builds on recent models of the redistributional foundations of dictatorships and democracies, I generate hypotheses regarding all nontax revenue and regime stability. I argue that an increase in nontax revenue should be associated with less taxation of elites in democracies, more social spending in dictatorships, and more stability for both regime types. I find support for all three of these hypotheses in a cross-sectional time-series analysis, covering all countries and years for which the necessary data are available. Significantly, I show that the particular source of nontax revenue does not make a difference: they all act similarly with regard to regime stability and the causal mechanisms.
The Cradle of Laudianism? Westminster Abbey, 1558–1630
Authors: MERRITT J. F.
Published: January 2009

Westminster Abbey has been surprisingly neglected by early modern historians. This article attempts to recreate a full sense of the institution and its character during this period, in order to build it into our picture of the post-Reformation religious landscape. The abbey, it is argued, continued to be an important religious institution, while its high-profile ceremonialism, coupled with strong secular and religious jurisdiction over the surrounding locality, may have served as an inspiration for the emerging Laudian movement. Nevertheless, the abbey and its school were never exclusively proto-Laudian in their religious character.
Ergodic theorem for the algebra of operators in 𝕃p
Authors: JAJTE RYSZARD , PASZKIEWICZ ADAM
Published: January 2009

A measure-preserving isomorphism α of a probability space (Ω,ℱ,μ) generates an algebraic automorphism $\tilde \alpha $ of the algebra of bounded linear operators in 𝕃p(Ω,ℱ,μ). An ergodic theorem for $\tilde \alpha $ is proved.