bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Bioactivity of Teasterone and Typhasterol Analogs
Authors: Ramírez Javier A. , Mancusso Romina , Sarno Silvina , Galagovsky Lydia R.
Published: November 2008

Four brassinosteroids analogs of homoteasterone and homotyphasterol bearing 5α-OH and 5α-F groups have been synthesized and their bioactivities evaluated.
N,N-Diethyl-1-Tosyl-3-Indoleglyoxylamide as a Dienophile in Diels-Alder Reactions. Hyperbaric vs. Thermal Conditions
Authors: Biolatto B. , Kneeteman M. , Mancini P. M.
Published: November 2008

Under high pressure conditions, the Diels-Alder reaction involving N,N-diethyl-1-tosyl-3-indoleglyoxylamide and 1-(N-acetyl-N-propylamino)-1,3-butadiene produces a highly functionalized intermediate for the synthesis of Indole Alkaloids, in shorter times and higher yields than under thermal conditions.
Structure-Fluorescence Relationships in Antimicrobial Fluoroquinolones (AMFQs)
Authors: Vilches Ana P. , Nieto Marcelo J. , Mazzieri María R. , Manzo Ruben H.
Published: November 2008

The analysis of fluorescence spectra of a set of structurally related AMFQ let to identify the effects of structural changes and the presence of electric charge generated by acid-base reaction on the emission spectra.
Kinetic Study of the Hydrolisys of Phenyl Perfluorooctanoate in Water: Deaggregation Effect of b-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Fernández M. A. , De Rossi R. H.
Published: November 2008

The kinetics of the hydrolysis of phenyl perfluorooctanoate was studied at pH 6.00 and 9.90 in water. The substrate is aggregated under all working reaction conditions, which is indicated from the decrease in the reaction rate when the substrate concentration is raised. The addition of β-cyclodextrin produces the deaggregation of the ester catalyzing the reaction.
Comparative Study of Hydrocarbon, Fluorocarbon and Aromatic Bonded RP-HPLC Stationary Phases by Linear Solvation Energy Relationships
Authors: Reta M. , Carr P. W. , Sadek P. C. , Rutan S. C.
Published: November 2008

n/a
Synthesis of Heterocylic Compounds of Biological Interest from Carbohydrate Derivatives
Authors: Martinez Esperón M. F. , Fascio M. L. , D’Accorso N. B.
Published: November 2008

The synthesis of some isoxazolic compounds from carbohydrate derivatives is described. These products are obtained by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction and their functionalization leads to derivatives with potential biological activities.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance for the Structural Study of Bioactive Semicarbazones
Authors: Cerecetto H. , Di Maio R. , González M. , Seoane G. , Sagrera G. , Millán M.
Published: November 2008

NMR studies of bioactive semicarbazones are described.
SRN1 and Stille Reactions: A New Synthetic Strategy
Authors: Corsico Eduardo F. , Rossi Roberto A.
Published: November 2008

The photostimulated reaction of Me3Sn- ion with mono, di and trichloro arenes in liquid ammonia gave very good yields of stannanes by the SRN1 mechanism. These products reacted by a palladium-catalized cross coupling reaction with halobenzenes to give phenylated products also in very goods yields. Similar yields can be obtained in one-pot reactions.
Chemical Components and Biological Activity of Bidens Subalternans, B. Aurea (Astereaceae) and Zuccagnia Puntacta (Fabaceae)
Authors: Ortega C. A. , María A. O.M. , Gianello J. C.
Published: November 2008

The aim of this work was to evaluate the activity in the gastrointestinal tract of the several extracts and pure components isolated from Bidens species and Zuccagnia puntacta.
New Peanut Product: “Mayonnaise”. Some Chemical Aspects
Authors: Johnston M. G. , Navarro V. M. , Nepote V. , Grosso N. R. , Brutti N. I. , Guzmán C. A.
Published: November 2008

The percentage composition, fatty acids and oxidation stability was obtained from “peanut mayonnaise” in comparison with commercial mayonnaise and sunflower oil. “Peanut mayonnaise” showed better chemical quality than commercial mayonnaise.
Practical and Efficient Procedure for the In Situ Preparation of B-Alkoxyoxazaborolidines. Enantioselective Reduction of Prochiral Ketones
Authors: Ponzo Viviana L. , Kaufman Teodoro S.
Published: November 2008

A new method for the in situ elaboration of B-alkoxyoxazaborolidines is presented. Their use in the enantioselective reduction of prochiral aromatic ketones provides excellent chemical and optical yields of chiral alcohols.
Synthetic Modifications of Lead Compounds as Antitrypanosomal Drugs
Authors: Cerecetto H. , Di Maio R. , Seoane G. , Denicola A. , Peluffo G. , Quijano C.
Published: November 2008

Following our work in the synthesis of compounds with antichagasic activity, we describe new potential products in which the same "leader" compound was modulated.
Determination of the Formation Constant of the Inclusion Complex from a Naphthoquinone
Authors: Granero Gladys , Longhi Marcela , De Bertorello María M.
Published: November 2008

Inclusion complexation of 1 with HP-β-CD or HP-β-CD:PVP K30 in aqueous solution was spectroscopically studied and the formation constant for a 1:1 complex was determined from these measurements.
Synthesis of Asymmetrical Porphyrins Substituted in the meso-Position from Dipyrrolomethanes
Authors: Milanesio E. , Chiacchiera S. M. , Silber J. J. , Durantini E. N.
Published: November 2008

A convenient procedure for the synthesis of 5-(4-acetamidophenyl)-10,15,20-tris(4-substituted phenyl) porphyrins from dipyrrolomethane is reported. meso-(4-Substituted phenyl) dipyrrolomethanes were obtained in yields of 72-84%. The amide porphyrins were isolated with appreciable yields of 15-17%.
Escherichia Coli Bl21: A Useful Biocatalyst for the Synthesis of Purine Nucleosides
Authors: Rogert M. C. , Martínez N. , Porro S. , Lewkowicz E. , Iribarren A.
Published: November 2008

E. coli BL21 cells were able to synthesize several purine nucleosides from pyrimidine ones. Kinetics and yields of this reaction showed a strong dependence on pH, temperature, reagent concentrations and weight of wet cell paste. Yields over 90% were reached in the synthesis of adenosine.
First Synthesis of (20S) 3β,16β-Dihydroxy-5-pregnen-20,16-carbolactone (Diosgeninlactone)
Authors: Bruttomesso Andrea , Gros Eduardo
Published: November 2008

Diosgeninlactone (1), a natural product from Solanum vespertilio, was stereoselectively synthesized in high yield from 3β-hydroxy-5-androstene.
Bioactive Constituents of Conyza Albida
Authors: Del V. Pacciaroni A. , Espinar L. , Mongelli E. , Romano A. , Ciccia G. , Silva G.
Published: November 2008

Alkynes and spathulenol were isolated from Conyza albida (Asteraceae); some of the compounds were lethal against Artemia sp. and cytotoxic against KB cells.
The Importance of Keto-Enol Forms of Arylpropanoids Acting as Antifungal Compounds
Authors: Giannini F. , Devia C. , Rodríguez A. , Enriz R. , Suvire F. , Baldoni H. , Furlan R. , Zacchino S.
Published: November 2008

We report here the importance of a keto-enol equilibrium of an arylpropanoid series acting as antifungal agents. An interesting relationship between ln MIC, ∆E enolization and net atomic charges was found. Two compounds were synthesized and their MIC evaluated in order to prove the above relationship.
O-Sulfated Derivatives of Glucuronic Acid
Authors: Castro Mariano J. L. , Salmaso Natalia , Kovensky José , Cirelli Alicia Fernández
Published: November 2008

4-O-Substituted D-glucuronic acid derivatives were synthesized from D-glucose in order to study the regioselectivity of sulfation.
Synthesis and Computational Simulation of New Phosphorilated Sulfoximines with Insecticidal Activity
Authors: Bellozas Reinhard M. E. , Licastrode S. A.
Published: November 2008

New organophosphorus insecticides of dialkylsulphoximines derived with activity upon acetylcholinesterase were synthesized. The obtained compounds were characterized by NMR and IR, and anticholinesterase activity and toxicity was measured. A simulation through computer was done in order to establish the relationship between structure and activity.
Asymmetrically Functionalized, Four‐Armed, Poly(ethylene glycol) Compounds for Construction of Chemically Functionalizable Non‐Biofouling Surfaces
Authors: Chi Young Shik , Lee Bong Soo , Kil Munjae , Jung Hyuk‐jun , Oh Eugene , Choi Insung S.
Published: November 2008

Asymmetrically functionalized, four‐armed, Tween 20 derivatives that formed stable monomolecular films on solid substrates were designed and synthesized. Thiol‐modified Tween 20 was used for forming self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold, and maleimide‐modified Tween 20 was introduced onto SiO2 surfaces with SAMs of (3‐mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane through Michael addition. These structurally modified Tween 20 compounds gave the original characteristics of Tween 20, non‐biofouling (from ethylene glycol groups) and functionalizable (from OH groups) properties, to each substrate. The non‐biofouling properties of the Tween 20‐coated gold and SiO2 surfaces were investigated by surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy and ellipsometry, and these surfaces showed strong resistance against nonspecific adsorption of proteins. In addition, the biospecific binding of streptavidin was achieved after coupling of (+)‐biotinyl‐3,6,9‐trioxaundecanediamine onto the non‐biofouling surfaces through amide‐bond formation.
Quality control of inkjet technology for DNA microarray fabrication
Authors: Pierik Anke , Dijksman Frits , Raaijmakers Adrie , Wismans Ton , Stapert Henk
Published: November 2008

A robust manufacturing process is essential to make high‐quality DNA microarrays, especially for use in diagnostic tests. We investigated different failure modes of the inkjet printing process used to manufacture low‐density microarrays. A single nozzle inkjet spotter was provided with two optical imaging systems, monitoring in real time the flight path of every droplet. If a droplet emission failure is detected, the printing process is automatically stopped. We analyzed over 1.3 million droplets. This information was used to investigate the performance of the inkjet system and to obtain detailed insight into the frequency and causes of jetting failures. Of all the substrates investigated, 96.2% were produced without any system or jetting failures. In 1.6% of the substrates, droplet emission failed and was correctly identified. Appropriate measures could then be taken to get the process back on track. In 2.2%, the imaging systems failed while droplet emission occurred correctly. In 0.1% of the substrates, droplet emission failure that was not timely detected occurred. Thus, the overall yield of the microarray manufacturing process was 99.9%, which is highly acceptable for prototyping.
Aerodynamically assisted jetting and threading for processing concentrated suspensions containing advanced structural, functional and biological materials
Authors: Arumuganathar Sumathy , Suter Nicolai , Walzel Peter , Jayasinghe Suwan N.
Published: November 2008

In recent years material sciences have been interpreted right across the physical and the life sciences. Essentially this discipline broadly addresses the materials, processing, and/or fabrication right up to the structure. The materials and structures areas can range from the micro‐ to the nanometre scale and, in a materials sense, span from the structural, functional to the most complex, namely biological (living cells). It is generally recognised that the processing or fabrication is fundamental in bridging the materials with their structures. In a global perspective, processing has not only contributed to the materials sciences but its very nature has bridged the physical with the life sciences. In this review we discuss one such swiftly emerging fabrication approach having a plethora of applications spanning the physical and life sciences.
High‐throughput protein production – Lessons from scaling up from 10 to 288 recombinant proteins per week
Authors: Tegel Hanna , Steen Johanna , Konrad Anna , Nikdin Hero , Pettersson Katarina , Stenvall Maria , Tourle Samuel , Wrethagen Ulla , Xu LanLan , Yderland Louise , Uhlén Mathias , Hober Sophia , Ottosson Jenny
Published: November 2008

The demand for high‐throughput recombinant protein production has markedly increased with the increased activity in the field of proteomics. Within the Human Protein Atlas project recombinantly produced human protein fragments are used for antibody production. Here we describe how the protein expression and purification protocol has been optimized in the project to allow for handling of nearly 300 different proteins per week. The number of manual handling steps has been significantly reduced (from 18 to 9) and the protein purification has been completely automated.
Alternatives for the intermediate recovery of plasmid DNA: Performance, economic viability and environmental impact
Authors: Freitas Sindelia , Canário Sónia , Santos José A. L. , Prazeres Duarte M. F.
Published: November 2008

Robust cGMP manufacturing is required to produce high‐quality plasmid DNA (pDNA). Three established techniques, isopropanol and ammonium sulfate (AS) precipitation (PP), tangential flow filtration (TFF) and aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPS) with PEG600/AS, were tested as alternatives to recover pDNA from alkaline lysates. Yield and purity data were used to evaluate the economic and environmental impact of each option. Although pDNA yields =90% were always obtained, ATPS delivered the highest HPLC purity (59%), followed by PP (48%) and TFF (18%). However, the ability of ATPS to concentrate pDNA was very poor when compared with PP or TFF. Processes were also implemented by coupling TFF with ATPS or AS‐PP. Process simulations indicate that all options require large amounts of water (100–200 tons/kg pDNA) and that the ATPS process uses large amounts of mass separating agents (65 tons/kg pDNA). Estimates indicate that operating costs of the ATPS process are 2.5‐fold larger when compared with the PP and TFF processes. The most significant contributions to the costs in the PP, TFF and ATPS processes came from operators (59%), consumables (75%) and raw materials (84%), respectively. The ATPS process presented the highest environmental impact, whereas the impact of the TFF process was negligible.
Limitation of immunoaffinity column for the removal of abundant proteins from plasma in quantitative plasma proteomics
Authors: Ichibangase Tomoko , Moriya Kyoji , Koike Kazuhiko , Imai Kazuhiro
Published: November 2008

In plasma proteomics, before a proteome analysis, it is essential to prepare protein samples without high‐abundance proteins, including albumin, via specific preparation techniques, such as immunoaffinity capture. However, our preliminary experiments suggested that functional changes with use alter the ability of the immunoaffinity column. Thus, in this study, to evaluate the changes of the removal ability of abundant proteins from plasma by the immunoaffinity column, plasma proteome analysis was performed for the long‐term test for the reproducibility of the affinity column using the fluorogenic derivatization–liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method combined with an IgY column. The specific adsorption for albumin decreased with an increase in the number of the column usage before its expiration date. Moreover, it was demonstrated that hydrophobic high molecular weight compounds in plasma adsorbed onto the column materials surface contributed to the functional changes from specific immunoaffinity adsorption into hydrophobic interaction. These results suggested that, in quantitative plasma proteomics studies, it is important to keep in mind the risk of not only the nonselective loss but also the changes in the adsorption ability of the immunoafinity column. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiresidue analysis of 47 pesticides in cooked wheat flour and polished rice by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Lee Sung Jung , Park Hyeong Jin , Kim Wooseong , Jin Jong Sung , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Shim Jae‐Han , Shin Sung Chul
Published: November 2008

Liquid chromatography in conjunction with tandem mass spectrometry was used to directly quantify of 47 pesticide residues from cooked wheat flour and polished rice, which are the most widely consumed cereals in the Republic of Korea. The sample clean‐up was carried out according to the method established by the Korea Food and Drug Administration. The mobile phase for liquid chromatograpy separation consisted of water and 5 mm methanolic ammonium formate. Tandem mass spectroscopy experiments were performed in electrospray ionization positive mode and the multiple reaction monitoring mode. The matrix effects estimated for the 47 pesticides had a mean value of 99% and ranged from 45 to 147%. High recoveries (70–140%) and relative standard deviations (≤20%) were achieved for most of the pesticides tested. The method used in this study allowed for rapid quantification and identification of low levels of pesticides in cooked wheat flour and polished rice samples. Of the screened pesticide residues, only tricyclazole and fenobucarb were found in polished rice samples. However, no samples contained residues above the MRL established by the Korea Food and Drug Administration. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Empathic deficits and alexithymia in trauma‐related impulsive aggression
Authors: Teten Andra L. , Miller Lisa A. , Bailey Sara D. , Dunn Nancy Jo , Kent Thomas A.
Published: November 2008

Our long term interest is to develop a developmental model of impulsive aggression based on a confluence of social, psychological and biological features. This approach incorporates neurobiological research, which has identified language processing deficits as a unique characteristic of impulsive aggressors and extends it to include emotional deficits. As an initial test of this hypothesis, we examined whether empathy and alexithymia were associated with impulsive aggression. Regressions were performed to explore the associations among impaired empathy, alexithymia, impulsive aggression, verbal and physical general aggression. Among impulsive aggressive veterans (n = 38) recruited from a VA trauma clinic, alexithymia predicted impulsive aggression and empathic deficits predicted verbal aggression. Neither emotional awareness deficit predicted general physical aggression in this middle‐aged sample. Results suggested that empathic deficits were associated with general verbal aggression, but alexithymia was uniquely associated with impulsive aggression. Consideration of alexithymia in impulsive aggression has implications for its etiology, prevention and treatment. Published in 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Revisiting impulsivity in suicide: Implications for civil liability of third parties
Authors: Smith April R. , Witte Tracy K. , Teale Nadia E. , King Sarah L. , Bender Ted W. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: November 2008

Previous research and popular conceptualizations of suicide have posited that many suicides are the result of impulsive, “on a whim” decisions. However, recent research demonstrates that most suicides are not attempted impulsively, and in fact involve a plan. Legally, suicide has historically been considered to be a superseding intervening cause of death that exonerates other parties from liability, but currently there are two general exceptions to this view. Specifically, another party may be found responsible for a suicide if that party either caused the suicide or failed in its duty to prevent the suicide from occurring. Both of these exceptions assume that the resulting suicide was foreseeable. Given that recent research has indicated that most suicides are planned, and thereby foreseeable to a certain extent under many circumstances, this article discusses issues of foreseeability as they pertain to litigation involving third party liability for the suicide of university students, prison inmates, and mental health patients. The authors contend that the surest way for universities, prison staff, and mental health practitioners to avoid being held liable for a suicide is to appropriately assess for suicidal intent. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inducible reprogramming of human T cells into Treg cells by a conditionally active form of FOXP3
Authors: Allan Sarah E. , Song‐Zhao George X. , Abraham Thomas , McMurchy Alicia N. , Levings Megan K.
Published: November 2008

FOXP3 is required for the development of Treg and its expression is often used as a surrogate marker of functional suppression. However, it is now known that activated human T effector cells can also express FOXP3 without acquiring regulatory activity. To more closely examine the requirements for FOXP3 to reprogram human T cells into Treg, we developed a conditionally active form of FOXP3 and show here that full acquisition of Treg phenotype and function is strictly dependent on the amount of active FOXP3 a T cell expresses. In addition, the phenotypic and functional alterations induced by FOXP3 are only fully manifested following prolonged induction of protein activity. Induction of FOXP3 activity does not upregulate EBI3 or p35 mRNA, providing evidence that secretion of IL‐35 does not substantially contribute to the suppressive mechanism of human Treg. These data represent the first formal evidence that FOXP3 acts as a quantitative regulator rather than a simple molecular switch for Treg.
Elie Metchnikoff: Father of natural immunity
Authors: Gordon Siamon
Published: November 2008

We celebrate the centenary of the Nobel award to Elie Metchnikoff in 2008, shared with Paul Ehrlich, as respective pioneers of cellular and humoral immunology. Metchnikoff is rightly famous for his recognition of the biological significance of leukocyte recruitment and phagocytosis of microbes in host defence against infection, inflammation and immunity. As a comparative zoologist he utilised a broad range of model organisms for microscopic studies in vivo and in vitro. His work prefigures much of contemporary research in innate immunity. In this brief review, I cover some details of his Europe‐wide life in Russia (mainly Odessa) and at the Pasteur Institute in Paris. He had a complex personality, yet his creative genius, imagination and insights justify the title of “Father of natural immunity”.
DC activated via dectin‐1 convert Treg into IL‐17 producers
Authors: Osorio Fabiola , LeibundGut‐Landmann Salomé , Lochner Matthias , Lahl Katharina , Sparwasser Tim , Eberl Gérard , Reis e Sousa Caetano
Published: November 2008

Th cells producing IL‐17 play a pro‐inflammatory role at mucosal surfaces. Treg at the same sites dampen inflammation and prevent immunopathology. Th cells producing IL‐17 (Th17) and Treg are thought to be distinct populations defined by expression of the transcription factors ROR‐γt and Foxp3, respectively. Here, we show that mouse CD25+Foxp3+ Treg can be converted into a hybrid T‐cell population characterized by the expression of Foxp3 and ROR‐γt and the production of IL‐17. Conversion was observed upon coculture with DC selectively activated via dectin‐1, a C‐type lectin receptor involved in fungal recognition, and depended on IL‐23 produced by DC. Within the Foxp3+ population, only Foxp3+ROR‐γt+ T cells but not Foxp3+ROR‐γt‐–T cells become Foxp3+IL‐17+ T cells. These results indicate that some Foxp3+ T cells can produce IL‐17 while retaining Foxp3 expression and suggest that Treg could play an unexpected pro‐inflammatory role in some settings.
Effects of modafinil on simulator driving and self‐assessment of driving following sleep deprivation
Authors: Gurtman Clint G. , Broadbear Jillian H. , Redman Jennifer R.
Published: November 2008

Objectives

While it has been suggested that the novel wake promoting drug modafinil may have some utility with respect to drowsy driving in healthy adults, this has not been investigated until now. The present study was designed to assess the effects of modafinil on objective and self‐assessed driving simulator performance during an overnight period of sleep loss.

Methods

Sixteen healthy participants (eight males and eight females) remained awake overnight on two separate occasions during which they ingested either a single 300 mg dose of modafinil or a placebo capsule at either 0230 or 0330 h. Two hours post‐treatment, participants were evaluated using measures of driving simulator performance, self‐assessed driving performance and subjective alertness.

Results

Modafinil treatment reduced lane deviation but had less effect on speed deviation, off‐road incidents and reaction time to a concurrent task. Modafinil also improved subjective appraisals of driving performance, although its use may have resulted in overconfidence in driving ability during short trips.

Conclusions

Modafinil offers some benefits with respect to objective driving performance under conditions of sleep loss. However it may induce overconfidence, suggesting that its use as a countermeasure to drowsiness when driving requires further examination. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production of fuel ethanol from softwood by simultaneous saccharification and fermentation at high dry matter content
Authors: Hoyer Kerstin , Galbe Mats , Zacchi Guido
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND: The production of bio‐ethanol from softwood is considered a promising alternative to fossil fuels in Sweden. In order to make fuel ethanol economically competitive with fossil fuels, it is important to reduce the production cost, which can be done by increasing the dry matter content of the fermentation medium, thus reducing the energy demand in the final distillation of the fermentation broth. Running simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) at higher dry matter content has, however, been found to decrease the ethanol yield.

RESULTS: The use of different stirrer types and stirring speeds in the present study has shown to have an influence on the final ethanol yield in SSF with 10% water‐insoluble solids (WIS). Also, higher concentration of pretreatment hydrolysate, i.e., with increased inhibitor concentration, at the same WIS resulted in a decreased ethanol yield. However, despite stirring problems and high inhibitor concentration, ethanol was produced at 12% WIS with an ethanol yield in the SSF step of 81% of the theoretical based on the content of fermentable sugars in the fermentor.

CONCLUSION: The decrease in ethanol yield in SSF at high dry matter content has been shown to be a combined effect of increased mass transfer resistance and increased inhibitor concentration in the fermentation broth. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Mineral resource abundance and regional growth in Spain, 1860–2000
Authors: Domenech Jordi
Published: November 2008

The natural resource curse hypothesis predicts that natural resource windfalls can reduce the long run level of income per capita by crowding out manufacturing, slowing down the accumulation of human capital, damaging institutions and increasing inequality. This paper explores some of the central tenets of the natural resource curse literature by exploiting variation in mineral resources in Spain from 1860 to 1936. The conclusions of the paper are that, contrary to the natural resource curse hypothesis, natural resources had a positive, sizeable effect on industrialisation by 1920 and that they did not reduce real wage growth in the period 1860–1920. Moreover, extractive industries did not slow down the accumulation of human capital. When I look at the very long run by analysing real income per capita convergence from 1930 to 2000, there are no significant costs of early specialisation in extractive industries. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Luminescence dating of sand–loess sequences and response of Mu Us and Otindag sand fields (north China) to climatic changes
Authors: Zhou Yali , Lu Huayu , Zhang Jiafu , Mason Joseph A. , Zhou Liping
Published: November 2008

The sand–loess transition zone in north China is sensitive to climate change, and is an ideal place to investigate past environmental changes. However, past climate change at millennial–centennial timescales in this region has not been well reconstructed because of limited numerical dating. Alternations of sandy loam soils with aeolian sand layers in the Mu Us and Otindag sand fields, which lie along the sand–loess transition zone, indicate multiple intervals of dune activity and stability. This change is probably a response to variations of the East Asian monsoon climate during the late Quaternary. The single aliquot regeneration (SAR) optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating protocol, which has been successfully applied to aeolian deposits worldwide, is applied to these two sand fields in this study. The OSL ages provide reliable constraints for reconstruction of past climate changes at suborbital timescale. Sections in both sand fields contain aeolian sand beds recording millennial‐scale episodes of dry climate and widespread dune activation, including episodes at about the same time as Heinrich Event 5 and the Younger Dryas in the North Atlantic region. These results demonstrate the potential of aeolian sediments in semi‐arid north China to record millennial‐scale climatic events, and also suggest that dry–wet climate variation at the desert margin in China may be linked to climatic change elsewhere in the Northern Hemisphere, through atmospheric circulation. This article was published online on 27 November 2008. An error was subsequently identified. This notice is included in the online and print versions to indicate that both have been corrected (16 December 2008). Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymorphism of DGAT1 associated with intramuscular fat‐mediated tenderness in sheep
Authors: Xu Qiu‐Liang , Chen Yu‐Lin , Ma Rui‐Xia , Xue Peng
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND: Polymorphism of acyl coenzyme A: diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) affects the fat content of milk and meat in cattle. To investigate the effects of DGAT1 on sheep meat quality traits, the cDNA of DGAT1 was cloned. The association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of the DGAT1 gene and sheep meat quality traits was assessed.

RESULTS: Sequence analysis showed that sheep DGAT1 is about 1470 bp and contains an open reading frame coding for a protein of 489 amino acids. A silent mutation of GCT (Ala487) to GCC (Ala487) was found in exon 17 at the 1461st base pair in 286 lambs of three Chinese breeds by polymerase chain reaction single nucleotide conformation polymorphism assay. The mutation was confirmed by Alu I polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. The association between genotypes and meat quality traits in the longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle was analysed. The TT genotype conferred higher muscle marbling score (P < 0.05) and intramuscular fat (IMF) content (P < 0.05) and lower shear force (P < 0.05) and drip loss rate (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION: The T allele had a positive effect on tenderness, IMF content and marbling score in sheep meat. The results of this study suggest that the TT genotype of DGAT1 could be regarded as a molecular marker for meat tenderness and IMF content in sheep. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation and Physical Properties of Waterborne Polyurethane/Functionalized Graphene Sheet Nanocomposites
Authors: Raghu Anjanapura V. , Lee Yu Rok , Jeong Han Mo , Shin Cheol Min
Published: November 2008

A nanocomposite of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) was prepared with functionalized graphene sheets (FGSs) which are a new type of nano‐sized conductive filler. The FGS were finely dispersed in a polymer matrix to improve the conductivity of the WPU. Conductivity of about 105 times that of pristine WPU was attained using two parts FGS per 100 parts of the matrix polymer. The FGS reduced the hard segment crystallinity of the WPU, which lowered the modulus of the WPU at room temperature. This modulus reduction became more evident in the temperature region above the glass transition temperature of the hard segment.

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The identification of a Robin coefficient by a conjugate gradient method
Authors: Yang Fenglian , Yan Liang , Wei Ting
Published: November 2008

This paper investigates a non‐linear inverse problem associated with the heat conduction problem of identifying a Robin coefficient from boundary temperature measurement. The variational formulation of the problem is given. The conjugate gradient method combining with the discrepancy principle for choosing the suitable stop step are proposed for solving the optimization problem, in which the finite difference method is used to solve the direct problems. The performance of the method is verified by simulating four examples. The convergence with respect to the grid refinement and the amount of noise in the data is also investigated. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Market failure, government failure and externalities in climate change mitigation: The case for a carbon tax
Authors: Andrew Brian
Published: November 2008

This article addresses possible approaches to solving the problem of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE). It considers some of the core science on climate change, leading to a discussion of market failure, government failure and externalities. The European Union's emissions trading scheme (ETS) is cited as an example of a failure in an environment of both market failure and government failure. The discussion then focuses on carbon costing and pricing, the design features of a carbon tax and the main advantages of a carbon tax over an ETS. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UV‐curing synthesis of sulfonated polyaniline‐silver nanocomposites by an in situ reduction method
Authors: Karim Mohammad Rezaul , Yeum Jeong Hyun , Lee Min‐Young , Lee Mu Sang , Lim Kwon Taek
Published: November 2008

Sulfonated polyaniline‐silver (SPAni‐Ag) hybrid nanocomposites have been synthesized by the in situ reduction using a UV‐curing polymerization method without using any reducing or binding agent. An aqueous solution of aniline and orthoanilinic acid (OA) comonomers, a free‐radical oxidant and silver metal salts were irradiated by UV rays. Reduction of the silver salt in aqueous aniline and OA leads to the formation of silver particles which in turn catalyze the oxidation of comonomers to sulfonated polyaniline (SPAni). The resultant SPAni‐Ag nanocomposites were characterized by using different spectroscopy analyses like UV–visible (UV–Vis), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and infrared spectroscopy. The absorption bands were revealed to be optically active and the peaks blue‐shifted due to the presence of metallic silver within the SPAni matrix. The XRD patterns displayed both the broad amorphous polymeric and sharp metallic peaks. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy of the nanocomposites showed a uniform size distribution with spherical and granular morphology. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed that the nanocomposites had a better thermal stability than the bulk SPAni. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Offer and uptake of prenatal screening for Down syndrome in women from different social and ethnic backgrounds
Authors: Rowe Rachel , Puddicombe David , Hockley Christine , Redshaw Maggie
Published: November 2008

Objective

To compare offer and uptake of prenatal screening for Down syndrome in women from different social and ethnic backgrounds.

Method

A total of 4800 randomly selected women in England were sent a survey three months after they had given birth; 2960 women responded. Odds ratios (OR) for reported offer and uptake of screening comparing women by area deprivation and ethnicity were calculated.

Results

In all, 65% of women reported having screening; 89% reported being offered screening, and 69% of these reported taking up the offer. There was no evidence of a difference in the reported offer (adjusted OR = 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65–1.19, p = 0.41) or uptake (adjusted OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.66–1.06, p = 0.15) of screening for women living in the most deprived areas compared with other women. Asian women were less likely to report being offered screening than White women (adjusted OR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.39–0.94, p = 0.02) and were less likely to take up screening when offered (adjusted OR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.33–0.72, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

While most pregnant women in England are offered prenatal screening for Down syndrome, approximately 1 in 10 is not. Asian women are less likely than White women to report being offered Down syndrome screening and are less likely to have a screening test when offered. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
International migration to non‐metropolitan areas of high income countries: editorial introduction
Authors: Hugo Graeme , Morén‐Alegret Ricard
Published: November 2008

Increasing levels of immigration in response to ageing and fertility decline is one of the most significant demographic trends in OECD countries. Most of this immigration has focused on major metropolitan centres, but in recent years the proportion settling outside of these centres has increased. This phenomenon has largely got under the radar of policy makers and researchers alike but is significant for at least three reasons. The impact of ageing and fertility decline has been exacerbated in rural areas by outmigration so that immigration can potentially play a major role in reversing population decline and maintaining economic and social sustainability. In fact while immigration is much smaller in these areas, its impact can be magnified because of smaller local populations. Secondly, immigration is a neglected dimension of the much studied counterurbanistion phenomenon. Thirdly, the settlement experiences and integration processes for migrants in rural areas may be different to those of their urban counterparts. The countryside in high income countries is undergoing a transformation and international migration will play an increasingly important role in this over the next two decades. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ruralphilia and urbophobia versus urbophilia and ruralphobia? Lessons from immigrant integration processes in small towns and rural areas in Spain
Authors: Morén‐Alegret Ricard
Published: November 2008

Most research on immigrants has focused on their arrival in metropolitan areas or capital cities. However, in some parts of Europe international migration into small towns and rural areas is a significant feature, and as a result populations outside the major cities are becoming more diverse. This paper focuses on Spain, which has one of the most rapidly increasing immigrant populations in Europe. Based on fieldwork in five regions, new qualitative data and innovative insights into the integration processes of international migrants in non‐metropolitan Spain are presented. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immigrant settlement outside of Australia's capital cities
Authors: Hugo Graeme
Published: November 2008

The post‐war migration programme has added more than 8 million to the Australian population, but the immigrants have overwhelmingly settled in a few metropolitan areas. At each successive census an increasing proportion of the overseas‐born resided in capital cities until 2006 when there was a small reduction. The latter shift, while small, may herald a change in immigrant settlement. In 1996 the settler intake was divided into immigrants who could settle anywhere in Australia and those that were directed to designated areas. Predominant in the latter were non‐metropolitan communities. This paper analyses how these policy shifts relating to permanent and temporary migration have created a new flow of immigrants into regional Australia. A number of developments in the Australian Immigration Program are taken in turn, and empirical evidence regarding their scale and impact in non‐metropolitan Australia assessed. Firstly, a number of surveys of State Specific and Regional Migration (SSRM) settlers are analysed and show that while there is a high degree of satisfaction among both immigrants and employers, there are some labour issues. In addition, a significant minority intend to leave their area of initial settlement once they had fulfilled their residential qualification. While refugee‐humanitarian settlers are not compelled to settle in particular areas, many are channelled into regional areas. There is often a lack of support services for them in these areas, although some regional communities are mobilising to cancel this out. There are also several elements in Australia's new suite of temporary migration programmes which are funnelling migrants into regional areas. The paper examines student migration, the Working Holiday Maker programme and the Regional 457 long‐term business migration programme. Most of these represent totally new elements in regional populations. While it is too early to make definitive judgements about the extent of this trend and its impact, immigration is bringing social and economic change to many non‐metropolitan communities. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploration, exploitation, and financial performance: analysis of S&P 500 corporations
Authors: Uotila Juha , Maula Markku , Keil Thomas , Zahra Shaker A.
Published: November 2008

The literature suggests that established firms need to balance their exploration and exploitation activities in order to achieve superior performance. Yet, previous empirical research has modeled this balance as the interaction of orthogonal activities. In this study, we show that there is a trade‐off between exploration and exploitation and that the optimal balance between exploration and exploitation depends upon environmental conditions. Using a novel methodology to measure the relative exploration versus exploitation orientation, we find an inverted U‐shaped relationship between the relative share of explorative orientation and financial performance. This relationship is positively moderated by the R&D intensity of the industry in which the firm operates. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatial patterns of autochthonous and allochthonous resources in aquatic food webs
Authors: Doi Hideyuki
Published: November 2008

Although ecologists have recognized the importance of spatial structure within food webs, this aspect of ecosystems remains difficult to characterize quantitatively. Stable‐isotope techniques have recently been used to provide evidence of spatial structure within aquatic food webs. Here, I review current literature on spatial patterns of autochthonous and allochthonous resources in aquatic food webs in lakes and rivers. Across various habitats and ecosystems, the factors determining the major resources of aquatic food webs are primarily phytoplanktonic productivity, benthic algal productivity, and amount of subsidization from terrestrial habitats. Autochthonous and allochthonous resource availability in food webs shifts with gradients in water depth, nutrient concentrations, degree of canopy cover, and distance from terrestrial habitats. Size of lake and river ecosystem (i.e., lake volume and stream width) also affects the relative contribution of the resources to the food webs, as this factor determines the system primary productivity and linkage to terrestrial habitats. Human activities have fragmented river and lake ecosystems and have subsequently modified the structure of aquatic food webs. The responses of food webs to anthropogenic effects differ across ecosystems, and stable isotope techniques can help to quantitatively assess the effects of human impacts on aquatic food webs.
Recovery from severe heart failure following peripartum cardiomyopathy
Authors: Fett James D. , Sannon Herriot , Thélisma Emmeline , Sprunger Therese , Suresh Venkita
Published: November 2008

Objectives

Traditional concepts surrounding peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) hold that if recovery does not occur within 6 months of diagnosis, it is unlikely to happen. The purpose of the study was to determine the length of time required for recovery of left ventricular systolic function.

Methods

Patients were identified from the Hôpital Albert Schweitzer PPCM Registry over the period 2000–2008. Echocardiography was carried out at diagnosis and every 6 months thereafter. Recovery of systolic heart function was defined as left ventricular ejection fraction greater than 0.50.

Results

Thirty‐two out of 116 (27.6%) PPCM patients reached recovery levels, with 75% of patients taking over 12 months to recover. Shortest time to recovery was 3 months and longest time to recovery was 48 months.

Conclusion

Recovery of left ventricular systolic function in PPCM patients often requires longer than 6–12 months following diagnosis. It is important to continue effective treatment and follow‐up for a sufficient period to assure maximum benefit.
Application of evidence‐based teaching in maternal and child health in remote Vietnam
Authors: Hirst Jane E. , Jeffery Heather E. , Morris Jonathan , Foster Kirsty , Elliott Elizabeth J.
Published: November 2008

Objective

To develop, implement, and evaluate an evidence‐based multidisciplinary teaching program to improve maternal and infant health in remote Vietnam.

Methods

Needs assessments identified prevention of infection, neonatal resuscitation, and prevention of postpartum hemorrhage as primary targets. A 3‐day workshop based on the small group, interactive, skills‐based SCORPIO method was developed. Participants underwent formative written and performance‐based assessments. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of course content and teaching method was conducted.

Results

Two annual workshops were conducted for 58 health professionals, all of whom demonstrated skills acquisition to an adequate standard on completion. The workshops were rated as good or excellent overall by 100% of the participants, who reported that the content would help with their clinical work and that the teaching method was acceptable and easy to understand.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the SCORPIO method can be adapted to teach knowledge and clinical skills in remote Vietnam. Further work is needed to demonstrate an effect on health outcomes.
DOES TYPE OF HOUSEHOLD AFFECT MATERNAL HEALTH? EVIDENCE FROM INDIA
Authors: SAIKIA NANDITA , SINGH ABHISHEK
Published: November 2008

The present paper examines the association between the type of household and maternal health in India using data from the National Family Health Survey 1998–99. The indicators of maternal health used in the analysis are contraceptive use, visit to obtain antenatal care in the first trimester, safe delivery and nutritional status of women measured in terms of body mass index (BMI). Binary and multinomial logistic regressions are used to establish associations. The type of household is coded into three categories, viz. nuclear household, joint household with in-laws and joint household without in-laws. The other independent variables used in the analysis are age, children ever born, work status, education of women, religion, caste, standard of living, exposure to mass media, women’s autonomy and presence of others at the time of interview. The findings clearly suggest that type of household is significantly associated with the utilization of the above-mentioned services that positively affect maternal health. Women in nuclear households are more likely to utilize these services compared with women in joint households. However, an association between type of household and BMI was not found.