bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PCB concentrations in shrimp from major import markets and the United States
Authors: Fillos Dimitri , Scott Laura L. F. , De Sylor Marianna Anderle , Grespin Matthew , Luksemburg William J. , Finley Brent
Published: March 2012

Currently, environmental studies describing levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in imported shrimp are limited, particularly studies of aquaculture shrimp. In the present study, we measured concentrations of the 209 PCB congeners in 84 uncooked, warm-water shrimp samples from the United States and 14 other countries in three continents. Total PCB and dioxin-like PCB (DL-PCB) levels were not significantly different between wild-caught and farm-raised shrimp, and the distribution of total PCB levels did not vary considerably by country of origin although significant differences were observed in some cases. Regional trends in both total PCB and DL-PCB concentrations were observed, with the highest concentrations measured in shrimp from North America followed by Asia and then South America. The lower chlorinated homologues (i.e., mono-, di-, and tri-PCBs) generally comprised a greater fraction of the total levels measured in farm-raised shrimp and shrimp from Asia and South America whereas higher chlorinated homologues (i.e., hepta-, octa-, nona-, and deca-PCBs) contributed more to levels in wild-caught shrimp and shrimp from North America. Estimated daily intake of PCBs associated with shrimp consumption ranged from 2 pg/kg/d (shrimp from South America) to 15 pg/kg/d (shrimp from North America). Results from the present study were comparable to other studies conducted recently and demonstrate that exposure to PCBs from consumption of farm-raised and wild-caught shrimp imported from different regions are not likely to pose any health risks. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2012; 31: 1063–1071. © 2012 SETAC
The evaluator's role in valuing: Who and with whom
Authors: Alkin Marvin C. , Vo Anne T. , Christie Christina A.
Published: March 2012

The act of valuing in an evaluation may be perceived in different ways. We consider the multiple theoretic perspectives that govern an evaluator's behavior and present a typology of evaluator valuing roles. Within this typology we describe three ways in which value judgments are typically reached—by stakeholders alone, stakeholders and evaluators in consort with each other, or by evaluators only. This heuristic offers a more explicit understanding of how valuing occurs in evaluation. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
The role of context in valuing federal programs
Authors: Shipman Stephanie
Published: March 2012

The author uses her experience at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), one of Congress's primary sources of evaluative information on federal programs, to provide some insight into issues involved in deciding how to evaluate a federal program or policy. She asserts that although policy makers may look to evaluations for advice on which programs work and which do not in order to make evidence‐based budget decisions, most federal program evaluations simply identify program strengths and weaknesses and do not provide overall assessments or funding recommendations. How valuing is done in federally sponsored evaluations, therefore, depends on a range of contextual factors discussed in the chapter. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Valuation and the American Evaluation Association: Helping 100 flowers bloom, or at least be understood?
Authors: Morris Michael
Published: March 2012

The author explores the challenges encountered when organizations attempt to facilitate evaluation and improvement through policy statements of professional associations. The American Evaluation Association (AEA) is used as an example. Various AEA statements are described as general and avoiding particular value preferences. The author concludes there is more that professional associations can do if valuation engagement is desirable, and offers modest recommendations that would facilitate that engagement. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Contextual pragmatics of valuing
Authors: Quinn Patton Michael
Published: March 2012

Valuing is context dependent. That is the cross‐cutting theme of the chapters in this issue of New Directions for Evaluation. This chapter highlights how each author emphasizes contextual sensitivity and adaptability in the valuing process and concludes with a personal interpretation of each author's evaluator context to add value to the wisdom and guidance offered by each. ©Wiley Periodicals, Inc., and the American Evaluation Association.
Phenazepam abuse in the UK: an emerging problem causing serious adverse health problems, including death
Authors: Corkery John Martin , Schifano Fabrizio , Ghodse Abdol Hamid
Published: March 2012

Objective

Phenazepam (fenazepam; 7‐bromo‐5‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐1,3‐dihydro‐2H‐1,4‐benzodiazepin‐2‐one; PNZ, ‘Bonsai’) is a benzodiazepine developed in the former Soviet Union during the 1970s to treat neurological disorders, epilepsy, and alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Its recreational use appears to have increased over recent years. Because of the lack of accessible data on this substance, it is important that information is made available to health professionals.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in relevant databases (Medline, Toxbase, PsychInfo, etc.), grey literature (using Google Scholar) and Internet sites to identify key data on phenazepam, including epidemiology such as availability, price, supply sources, confiscations, and health‐related problems.

Results

Information from these sources indicates the potential for serious adverse health consequences for this drug when taken recreationally and that its use is spreading in the USA and Europe. Although first use was reported in the UK in October 2009, major concerns in the UK arose in summer 2010 when individuals across Britain were admitted to hospital following overdose. Nine UK fatalities were reported in which phenazepam was detected in post mortem toxicology but not implicated in death. The first UK death directly involving phenazepam was notified in July and the second in November 2011.

Conclusions

This paper summarises the key information about phenazepam abuse and health problems of which health professionals, especially those in Emergency Departments, should be aware and presents new information in respect of fatalities caused by the drug. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrological impact of roadside ditches in an agricultural watershed in Central New York: implications for non‐point source pollutant transport
Authors: Buchanan B. P. , Falbo K. , Schneider R. L. , Easton Z. M. , Walter M. T.
Published: March 2012

Nonpoint source pollution and hydromodification are the leading causes of impairment to our nation's rivers and streams. Roadside ditch networks, ubiquitous in both rural and urban landscapes, intercept and shunt substantial quantities of overland runoff and shallow groundwater to stream systems. By altering natural flowpaths, road ditches contribute not only to hydromodification but also potentially to nonpoint‐source (NPS) pollution by acting as hydrological links between agricultural fields and natural streams. Unfortunately, the impacts of these alterations on watershed hydrology and water quality are not well understood. Through a series of field measurements, including field surveys and discharge monitoring, this study examined the effect of road ditch networks on basin morphometry, field‐ and watershed‐scale hydrology, and pollutant transport in a 38 km2agricultural watershed in south‐central NY. Salient findings include the following: (i) 94% of road ditches discharged to natural streams, effectively doubling the drainage density; (ii) on average, road ditches increased peak and total event flows in their receiving streams by 78% and 57%, respectively, but displayed significant variation across ditches; and (iii) ditches intercepted large quantities of surface and subsurface runoff from agricultural fields and therefore represent efficient conduits for the transport of agricultural NPS pollutants to sensitive receiving waterbodies. Our results provide useful information for hydrologists who wish to further understand how artificial drainage may be affecting watershed hydrology and for managers and engineers tasked with designing appropriate flood and NPS pollution control measures. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perceptions of the painful body: The relationship between body perception disturbance, pain and tactile discrimination in complex regional pain syndrome
Authors: Lewis J.S. , Schweinhardt P.
Published: March 2012

Background

Disturbances in body perception are increasingly acknowledged as a feature of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Conventional treatments have limited success particularly among those with long‐standing disease. Understanding the relationship between body perception disturbance, pain and tactile acuity might provide insight into alternative avenues for treatment. The aim of this study was to test the hypotheses that (1) body perception disturbance is positively related to pain and (2) decreased tactile acuity is related to increased body perception disturbance.

Methods

A controlled observational design was used to measure these features among those withCRPSof one arm. The extent of body perception disturbance was assessed using the BathCRPSbody perception disturbance scale and pain was measured using the neuropathic pain symptom inventory. Two‐point discrimination threshold testing was performed as a measure of tactile acuity.

Results

Findings confirmed both hypotheses. Body perception disturbance was found to positively correlate with pain such that those in greater pain had more extensive body perception disturbance (r = 0.57,p < 0.01). Furthermore, a positive correlation was revealed between body perception disturbance and two‐point discrimination thresholds (r = 0.5,p < 0.025) so those with greater body perception disturbance had worse tactile acuity. Interestingly, those with longer disease duration had significantly greater body perception disturbance (r = 0.66,p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Aberrant central processing is suggested as the neural correlate of body perception disturbance and tactile impairment. The exact relationship between body perception disturbance, pain and tactile acuity and how they may be modulated for pain relief requires further exploration.
Sensory and sympathetic correlates of heat pain sensitization and habituation in men and women
Authors: Breimhorst M. , Hondrich M. , Rebhorn C. , May A. , Birklein F.
Published: March 2012

Background

Habituation and sensitization are important behavioural responses to repeated exposure to painful stimuli, but little is known about the factors determining sensory, affective and sympathetic habituation to repeated pain stimulation in men and women.

Methods

Thirty volunteers (15 women) underwent a standardized heat pain paradigm spread over 8 consecutive days. At the beginning of the experiment, personality dimensions, coping strategies and pain catastrophizing thoughts were determined. Receiving a series of 10 blocks of six painful heat stimuli a day, participants rated pain intensity and unpleasantness. Skin conductance was recorded throughout the sessions.

Results and Conclusion

The results show similar habituation of both the sensory and affective dimensions of pain in men and women, although skin conductance did not undergo a significant decrease across the eight days. When focusing on single daily sessions, women showed pain sensitization but sympathetic habituation, while men showed pain sensitization but stable sympathetic activation. Our findings therefore indicate that the process of long‐term habituation to painful heat stimuli is a common feature in both genders, whereas men and women might differently recruit their sympathetic nervous system for short‐term pain processing. This study could potentially help to better evaluate gender‐specific mechanisms in pain perception.
Hair testing for cocaine and metabolites by GC/MS: criteria to quantitatively assess cocaine use
Authors: López‐Guarnido O. , Álvarez I. , Gil F. , Rodrigo L. , Cataño H. C. , Bermejo A. M. , Tabernero M. J. , Pla A. , Hernández A. F.
Published: March 2012

A simple, rapid and sensitive method has been developed and validated for the determination of cocaine and its main metabolites (benzoylecgonine and cocaethylene) in human hair. The method involved solid‐phase extraction with an Oasis HLB extraction cartridge and subsequent analysis by GC/MS. The limit of detection was 0.01 ng mg−1 for cocaine, 0.04 for benzoylecgonine and 0.03 for cocaethylene. The method validation included linearity (with a correlation coefficient >0.99 over the range 0.2–50 ng mg−1), intra‐ and inter‐day precision (always lower than 12%) and accuracy (mean relative error always below 17%) to meet the bioanalytical acceptance criteria. The procedure was further applied to 40 hair samples from self‐reported cocaine users arrested by the police who provided a positive urine‐analysis for cocaine, and was demonstrated to be suitable for its application in forensic toxicology. New approaches were raised to detect false‐negative results that allow a better interpretation of hair testing results. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High serum adiponectin predicts incident fractures in elderly men: Osteoporotic fractures in men (MrOS) Sweden
Authors: Johansson Helena , Odén Anders , Lerner Ulf H , Jutberger Hans , Lorentzon Mattias , Barrett-Connor Elizabeth , Karlsson Magnus K , Ljunggren Östen , Smith Ulf , McCloskey Eugene , Kanis John A , Ohlsson Claes , Mellström Dan
Published: March 2012

Adipocytes and osteoblasts share a common progenitor, and there is, therefore, potential for both autocrine and endocrine effects of adiponectin on skeletal metabolism. The aim of the present study was to determine whether high serum adiponectin was associated with an increased risk of fracture in elderly men. We studied the relationship between serum adiponectin and the risk of fracture in 999 elderly men drawn from the general population and recruited to the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) study in Gothenburg, Sweden. Baseline data included general health questionnaires, lifestyle questionnaires, body mass index (BMI), bone mineral density (BMD), serum adiponectin, osteocalcin, and leptin. Men were followed for up to 7.4 years (average, 5.2 years). Poisson regression was used to investigate the relationship between serum adiponectin, other risk variables and the time-to-event hazard function of fracture. Median levels of serum adiponectin at baseline were 10.4 µg/mL (interquartile range, 7.7–14.3). During follow-up, 150 men sustained one or more fractures. The risk of fracture increased in parallel with increasing serum adiponectin (hazard ratio [HR]/SD, 1.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.23–1.72) and persisted after multivariate-adjusted analysis (HR/SD, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.09–1.55). Serum adiponectin shows graded stepwise association with a significant excess risk of fracture in elderly men that was independent of several other risk factors for fracture. Its measurement holds promise as a risk factor for fracture in men. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Deletion of β-adrenergic receptor 1, 2, or both leads to different bone phenotypes and response to mechanical stimulation
Authors: Pierroz Dominique D , Bonnet Nicolas , Bianchi Estelle N , Bouxsein Mary L , Baldock Paul A , Rizzoli René , Ferrari Serge L
Published: March 2012

As they age, mice deficient for the β2-adrenergic receptor (Adrb2−/−) maintain greater trabecular bone microarchitecture, as a result of lower bone resorption and increased bone formation. The role of β1-adrenergic receptor signaling and its interaction with β2-adrenergic receptor on bone mass regulation, however, remains poorly understood. We first investigated the skeletal response to mechanical stimulation in mice deficient for β1-adrenergic receptors and/or β2-adrenergic receptors. Upon axial compression loading of the tibia, bone density, cancellous and cortical microarchitecture, as well as histomorphometric bone forming indices, were increased in both Adrb2−/− and wild-type (WT) mice, but not in Adrb1−/− nor in Adrb1b2−/− mice. Moreover, in the unstimulated femur and vertebra, bone mass and microarchitecture were increased in Adrb2−/− mice, whereas in Adrb1−/− and Adrb1b2−/− double knockout mice, femur bone mineral density (BMD), cancellous bone volume/total volume (BV/TV), cortical size, and cortical thickness were lower compared to WT. Bone histomorphometry and biochemical markers showed markedly decreased bone formation in Adrb1b2−/− mice during growth, which paralleled a significant decline in circulating insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and IGF–binding protein 3 (IGF-BP3). Finally, administration of the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol increased bone resorption and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and decreased bone mass and microarchitecture in WT but not in Adrb1b2−/− mice. Altogether, these results demonstrate that β1- and β2-adrenergic signaling exert opposite effects on bone, with β1 exerting a predominant anabolic stimulus in response to mechanical stimulation and during growth, whereas β2-adrenergic receptor signaling mainly regulates bone resorption during aging. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Separation of L‐aspartic acid and L‐glutamic acid mixtures for use in the production of bio‐based chemicals
Authors: Teng Yinglai , Scott Elinor L. , Sanders Johan P. M.
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Amino acids are promising feedstocks for the chemical industry due to their chemical functionality. They can be obtained by the hydrolysis of potentially inexpensive protein streams such as the byproduct of biofuel production. However, individual amino acids are required before they can be used for the further production of chemicals. Here, the separation of L‐aspartic acid (Asp) and L‐glutamic acid (Glu) mixture, which can be isolated from protein hydrolysis solutions at low pH or from electrodialysis of complex amino acid mixtures, was studied.

RESULTS: Glu was converted into L‐pyroglutamic acid (pGlu) which can be separated from the mixture of Asp and Glu due to its higher solubility in water. The conversion was carried out under aqueous or melt conditions. Under aqueous conditions, the conversion was studied as a factor of time, temperature and the amount of Glu. The conversion was specific with high yield and not effected by Asp. After pGlu was separated from Asp and residual Glu by solubility difference, it can be transferred back to Glu through hydrolysis.

CONCLUSION: The conversion of Glu to pGlu is specific and can be applied to separation Asp and Glu for their use in the production of bio‐based chemicals. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Combustion synthesis of PbO from lead carboxylate precursors relevant to developing a new method for recovering components from spent lead–acid batteries
Authors: Yang Jiakuan , Kumar Ramachandran Vasant , Singh Deepak P.
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: In the conventional recycling process, lead battery pastes are recovered as metallic lead by using an energy intensive decomposition and reduction process. Decomposition of PbSO4 requires the use of relatively high temperature and causes environmental pollution, i.e. emission of SO2 and lead particulates. A new process for treating the pastes at low temperature has been developed.

RESULTS: Three major lead compounds are individually reacted with an aqueous solution of citric acid in order to leach and to crystallize lead citrate precursors, which are then subjected to calcination at relatively low temperatures to recover the lead directly as PbO the most common active material for preparing pastes for a new battery. Characterization of the citrate precursors have been carried out using DSC, XRD, and SEM. The combustion products were characterized by XRD and SEM.

CONCLUSION: Lead(II) oxides along with a small amount of lead metal are the combustion products, which can be produced at a relatively low temperature of 350 °C. Resulting morphologies show that combustion products are in the 100–200 nm size range, providing high‐surface‐area PbO for making new battery paste materials. The work is aimed to develop a sustainable process for recovering lead from spent lead battery paste. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Electron microscopic observations on the alterations of tegumental surface of Raillietina echinobothrida treated with root‐peel extract of Potentilla fulgens
Authors: Roy Bishnupada , Dasgupta Shyamashree , Giri Bikash Ranjan
Published: March 2012

Potentilla fulgens, a member of the family Rosaceae, has been known since ancient times in Northeast India for its antiparasitic, antitumour and antidiabetic properties. The crude ethanolic extract of the plant was assayed against Raillietina echinobothrida, the intestinal cestode parasite of domestic fowl to authenticate the putative anthelmintic efficacy and cestocidal potential in particular of the plant. Treatment of the worm in‐vitro with 25, 50 and 100 mg of crude extract per ml of phosphate buffered saline caused paralysis leading to death taking 4.02–4.20, 3.05–3.75 and 2.05–2.83 h respectively. Scanning electron microscopic observations on treated worms revealed deformation of surface architecture, particularly in scolex and surface microtriches. Severe distortion and disorganization of the tegumental and subtegumental layer along with cytoplasmic organelle was also observed under transmission electron microscope. The possible use of the plant as a potential anthelmintic against cestode parasite is discussed. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Strategies for prevention of Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: Dubberke Erik
Published: March 2012

Infection control is the most essential component of an effective overall management strategy for prevention of nosocomial Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). The cornerstones of CDI prevention are appropriate contact precautions and strict hand hygiene. Other important tactics are effective environmental cleaning, identification and removal of environmental sources of C. difficile, and antibiotic stewardship. Hospitalists, as coordinators of care for each patient and advocates for quality care, can spearhead these efforts. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2012;7:S14–S17. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Current strategies for management of initial Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: Kelly Ciarán P.
Published: March 2012

In the past decade, an epidemic strain of Clostridium difficile has led to increased incidence and severity of nosocomial C. difficile infections (CDI). Responsiveness to standard antimicrobial care for this strain is declining, and the morbidity and mortality of CDI and recurrent CDI are rising. Effective management requires a coordinated effort among all members of the healthcare team to facilitate early identification of patients at risk for CDI, early recognition of disease onset and confirmatory testing, prompt initiation of the most appropriate management approach, and ongoing monitoring throughout the continuum of care. Hospitalists, as coordinators of patient care, are in an ideal position to ensure that patients receive prompt and optimal treatment based on current clinical evidence and severity of the disease. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2012;7:S5–S10 © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Meeting the challenge of recurrent Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: Johnson Stuart
Published: March 2012

Recurrent Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a growing problem that poses significant management challenges. There is no strong evidence to support a particular treatment strategy for recurrent CDI, especially those with multiple recurrences. However, a key strategy for reducing recurrent CDI is prompt diagnosis and treatment, facilitated by early recognition of patients at risk for recurrence. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2012;7:S11–S13. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Glenoid cartilage mechanical properties decrease after rotator cuff tears in a rat model
Authors: Reuther Katherine E. , Sarver Joseph J. , Schultz Susan M. , Lee Chang Soo , Sehgal Chandra M. , Glaser David L. , Soslowsky Louis J.
Published: March 2012

Rotator cuff repairs are commonly performed to reduce pain and restore function. Tears are also treated successfully without surgical intervention; however, the effect that a torn tendon has on the glenohumeral cartilage remains unknown. Clinically, a correlation between massive rotator cuff tears and glenohumeral arthritis has often been observed. This may be due to a disruption in the balance of forces at the shoulder, resulting in migration of the humeral head and subsequently, abnormal loading of the glenoid. Our lab previously demonstrated changes in ambulation and intact tendon mechanical properties following supraspinatus and infraspinatus rotator cuff tendon tears in a rat model. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of supraspinatus and infraspinatus rotator cuff tears on the glenoid cartilage. Nine rats underwent unilateral detachment of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons and were sacrificed after 4 weeks. Cartilage thickness significantly decreased in the antero‐inferior region of injured shoulders. In addition, equilibrium elastic modulus significantly decreased in the center, antero‐superior, antero‐inferior, and superior regions. These results suggest that altered loading after rotator cuff injury may lead to damage to the joint with significant pain and dysfunction. Clinically, understanding the mechanical processes involved with joint damage will allow physicians to better advise patients. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1435–1439, 2012
Furanocoumarins in celeriac from different farming systems: a 3‐year study
Authors: Schulzová Věra , Babička Luboš , Hajšlová Jana
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: The aim of this 3‐year study was to investigate the effect of different celeriac cultivation strategies on the content of naturally occurring toxicants furanocoumarins, represented by psoralen, bergapten, xanthotoxin and isopimpinellin. The products from organic farming in which anaerobically fermented pig slurry was used were compared against those obtained from other treatment systems: mineral, combined and non‐fertilised.

RESULTS: The average levels of furanocoumarins for all 3 years (determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry) in varieties Albin and Kompakt were 2.6 mg kg−1 and 10.2 mg kg−1, respectively. In all crop years higher levels were found in variety Kompakt. By using linear discriminant analysis it was possible to separate the whole data set according to variety from 85.7%, in individual crop years the recognition ability was more than 90%. According to the crop year, it was possible to separate tested samples from 70.8%, for individual variety the separation was 100%.

CONCLUSIONS: The method of fertilisation did not have a significant effect on the levels of plant secondary metabolites, furanocoumarins. The climatic conditions, in particular the growing periods and the celeriac variety, had an important role in the occurrence of furanocoumarins. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Organic food quality: a framework for concept, definition and evaluation from the European perspective
Authors: Kahl Johannes , Baars Ton , Bügel Susanne , Busscher Nicolaas , Huber Machteld , Kusche Daniel , Rembiałkowska Ewa , Schmid Otto , Seidel Kathrin , Taupier‐Letage Bruno , Velimirov Alberta , Załȩcka Aneta
Published: March 2012

Consumers buy organic food because they believe in the high quality of the product. Furthermore, the EU legal regulatory framework for organic food and farming defines high quality of the products as an important goal of production. A major challenge is the need to define food quality concepts and methods for determination. A background is described which allows embedding of the quality definitions as well as evaluation methods into a conceptual framework connected to the vision and mission of organic agriculture and food production. Organic food quality is defined through specific aspects and criteria. For evaluation each criterion has to be described by indicators. The determination of indicators should be through parameters, where parameters are described by methods. Conversely, the conceptual framework is described according to underlying principles and starting definitions are given, but further work has do be done on the detailed scientific description of the indicators. Furthermore, parameters have to be defined for the evaluation of suitability of these indicators for organic food production. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Pyrolysis and mass spectrometry studies of meteoritic organic matter
Authors: Sephton M.A.
Published: March 2012

Meteorites are fragments of extraterrestrial materials that fall to the Earth's surface. The carbon‐rich meteorites are derived from ancient asteroids that have remained relatively unprocessed since the formation of the Solar System 4.56 billion years ago. They contain a variety of extraterrestrial organic molecules that are a record of chemical evolution in the early Solar System and subsequent aqueous and thermal processes on their parent bodies. The major organic component (>70%) is a macromolecular material that resists straightforward solvent extraction. In response to its intractable nature, the most common means of investigating this exotic material involves a combination of thermal decomposition (pyrolysis) and mass spectrometry. Recently the approach has also been used to explore controversial claims of organic matter in meteorites from Mars. This review summarizes the pyrolysis data obtained from meteorites and outlines key interpretations. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 31:560–569, 2012
Asymptotic analysis of 3D thin anisotropic plates with a piezoelectric patch
Authors: Leugering Günter R. , Nazarov Serguei A. , Slutskij Andrey S.
Published: March 2012

We consider a thin elastic plate with piezo patches mounted on top of it. Electrodes are located on the upper and, depending on the devices, at the lower surface of the patches. This piezo actuator is coupled to an elastic body. We develop an asymptotic procedure to derive a two‐dimensional approximation of the entire structure. As a result, we obtain an inhomogeneous fourth‐order plate equation with piecewise smooth coefficients for the vertical displacement coupled to a second‐order in‐plane problem. The analysis and the resulting asymptotic limits help clarifying the modeling issue concerning active piezo devices in multidimensional smart structures. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Corneal confocal microscopy detects small‐fiber neuropathy in Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A patients
Authors: Tavakoli Mitra , Marshall Andy , Banka Siddharth , Petropoulos Ioannis N. , Fadavi Hassan , Kingston Helen , Malik Rayaz A.
Published: March 2012

Introduction: Although unmyelinated nerve fibers are affected in Charcot–Marie–Tooth type 1A (CMT1A) disease, they have not been studied in detail due to the invasive nature of the techniques needed to study them. We established alterations in C‐fiber bundles of the cornea in patients with CMT1A using non‐invasive corneal confocal microscopy (CCM). Methods: Twelve patients with CMT1A and 12 healthy control subjects underwent assessment of neuropathic symptoms and deficits, electrophysiology, quantitative sensory testing, corneal sensitivity, and corneal confocal microscopy. Results: Corneal sensitivity, corneal nerve fiber density, corneal nerve branch density, corneal nerve fiber length, and corneal nerve fiber tortuosity were significantly reduced in CMT1A patients compared with controls. There was a significant correlation between corneal sensation and CCM parameters with the severity of painful neuropathic symptoms, cold and warm thresholds, and median nerve CMAP amplitude. Conclusions: CCM demonstrates significant damage to C‐fiber bundles, which relates to some measures of neuropathy in CMT1A patients. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Parameter multi‐domain ‘hp’ empirical interpolation
Authors: Eftang Jens L. , Stamm Benjamin
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we introduce two parameter multi‐domain ‘ hp’ techniques for the empirical interpolation method (EIM). In both approaches, we construct a partition of the original parameter domain into parameter subdomains: h‐refinement. We apply the standard EIM independently within each subdomain to yield local (in parameter) approximation spaces: p‐refinement. Further, for a particularly simple case, we introduce a priori convergence theory for the partition procedure. We show through two numerical examples that our approaches provide significant reduction in the EIM approximation space dimension and thus significantly reduce the computational cost associated with EIM approximations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphology and conduction properties of graphite‐filled immiscible PVDF/PPgMA blends
Authors: Fina Alberto , Han Zhidong , Saracco Guido , Gross Ulrich , Mainil Michael
Published: March 2012

Graphite was dispersed in immiscible polyvinylidene fluoride/maleated polypropylene (PVDF/PPgMA) blends to improve electrical and thermal conductive properties by building a double‐percolation structure. The morphology of PVDF/PPgMA blends was first investigated for several compositions by selective solvent extraction, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. Blends of PVDF and PPgMA were prepared in different relative fractions, and a PVDF/PPgMA ratio of 7/3 showed a well‐co‐continuous structure. From this blend, the morphology and properties of composites with different concentrations of graphite were investigated to prepare double‐percolated structures. Graphite was observed to selectively localize in the PPgMA phase. The electrical and thermal conductive properties of graphite‐containing blends were measured, showing enhanced conductivity for the double‐percolation structures compared with single‐polymer composites containing the same graphite loadings. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aromatase inhibitor treatment of breast cancer cells increases the expression of let‐7f, a microRNA targeting CYP19A1
Authors: Shibahara Yukiko , Miki Yasuhiro , Onodera Yoshiaki , Hata Shuko , Chan Monica SM , Yiu Christopher CP , Loo Tjing Y , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Akahira Jun‐ichi , Ishida Takanori , Abe Keiko , Hirakawa Hisashi , Chow Louis WC , Suzuki Takashi , Ouchi Noriaki , Sasano Hironobu
Published: March 2012

Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are considered the gold standard of endocrine therapy for oestrogen receptor‐positive postmenopausal breast cancer patients. AI treatment was reported to result in marked alterations of genetic profiles in cancer tissues but its detailed molecular mechanisms have not been elucidated. Therefore, we profiled miRNA expression before and after treatment with letrozole in MCF‐7 co‐cultured with primary breast cancer stromal cells. Letrozole significantly altered the expression profiles of cancer miRNAs in vitro. Among the elevated miRNAs following letrozole treatment, computational analysis identified let‐7f, a tumour‐suppressor miRNA which targeted the aromatase gene (CYP19A1) expression. Quantitative real‐time PCR assay using MCF‐7 and SK‐BR‐3 cells as well as clinical specimens of a neoadjuvant study demonstrated a significant inverse correlation between aromatase mRNA and let‐7f expression. In addition, high let‐7f expression was significantly correlated with low aromatase protein levels evaluated by both immunohistochemistry and the western blotting method in breast cancer cases. Results of 3'UTR luciferase assay also demonstrated the actual let‐7f binding sites in CYP19A1, indicating that let‐7f directly targets the aromatase gene. Subsequent WST‐8 and migration assays performed in let‐7f‐transfected MCF‐7 and SK‐BR‐3 cells revealed a significant decrement of their proliferation and migration. These findings all demonstrated that let‐7f, a tumour suppressor miRNA in breast cancer, directly targeted the aromatase gene and was restored by AI treatment. Therefore, AIs may exert tumour‐suppressing effects upon breast cancer cells by suppressing aromatase gene expression via restoration of let‐7f. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of High‐speed Countercurrent Chromatography–Evaporative Light Scattering Detection for the Separation of Seven Steroidal Saponins from Dioscorea villosa
Authors: Yoon Kee Dong , Chin Young‐Won , Yang Min Hye , Choi Janggyoo , Kim Jinwoong
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Steroidal saponins in Dioscorea species are chemically characterised as spirostanol and furostanol saponins, and have been used as standard marker compounds due to their chemotaxonomical significance and their important biological activities.

Objective

To design a simple, rapid and efficient method for the separation of steroidal saponins with a high degree of purity using high‐speed countercurrent chromatography (HSCCC) coupled with evaporative light scattering detection (ELSD).

Methodology

In the first step, reversed‐phase mode HSCCC (flow rate: 1.5 mL/min; revolution speed: 800 rpm) using n‐hexane:n‐butanol:water [3:7:10 (v/v/v)] was employed to separate furostanol saponins from n‐butanol soluble extracts of Dioscorea villosa. After the first HSCCC run, spirostanol saponins retained in the stationary phase were subjected to the second HSCCC (normal‐phase mode; flow rate: 2.0 mL/min; revolution speed: 800 rpm). A two‐phase solvent system composed of chloroform:methanol:isopropanol:water [10:6:1:4 (v/v/v/v)] was employed in the second HSCCC. The structures of isolates were elucidated by 1H‐NMR, 13 C‐NMR, ESI‐MS and HPLC analysis.

Results

Three furostanol saponins, parvifloside (27.3 mg), methyl protodeltonin (67.1 mg) and trigofoenoside A‐1 (18.5 mg) were isolated from the n‐butanol soluble extract of D. villosa by the first HSCCC run. Subsquent normal‐phase HSCCC of the spirostanol‐rich extract led to the separation of four spirostanol saponins: zingiberensis saponin I (15.2 mg), deltonin (31.5 mg), dioscin (7.7 mg) and prosapogenin A of dioscin (3.4 mg). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapid stereocomplex formation of polylactide using supercritical fluid technology
Authors: Purnama Purba , Hyun Kim Soo
Published: March 2012

It is generally believed that stereocomplex polylactide is a prospect for rigorous application in the future due to enhancement of the physical properties of its homopolymers. There have been many studies about the formation and characterization of this stereocomplex. However, we are the first to report that supercritical fluid technology can yield a high‐degree stereocomplex polylactide (ca 98%) in a relatively short time (1 min). “This method generated a dry product and feasible for polylactide with weight‐average molecular weight (Mw) up to 70 000–160 000 g mol−1 or higher by modifying the material feed of the homopolymer.” The “feasible” term is used to explained that our system is suitable for stereocomplexation of the polylactide material with molecular weight 70 000–160 000 or above. We also discovered that modification of the material feed did not affect the properties of the stereocomplex polylactide generated. The process and outcome of this research indicate that supercritical fluid technology is suitable for a continuous stereocomplex polylactide formation process. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Mechanical, thermal and electrical properties of multi‐walled carbon nanotube/aluminium nitride/polyetherimide nanocomposites
Authors: Wu Sheng‐Yen , Huang Yuan‐Li , Ma Chen‐Chi M , Yuen Siu‐Ming , Teng Chih‐Chun , Yang Shin‐Yi , Twu Chorng H.
Published: March 2012

A series of polyimide‐based nanocomposites containing polyimide‐grafted multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (PI‐g MWCNTs) and silane‐modified ceramic (aluminium nitride (AlN)) were prepared. The mechanical, thermal and electrical properties of hybrid PI‐g MWCNT/AlN/polyetherimide nanocomposites were investigated. After polyimide grafting modification, the PI‐g MWCNTs showed good dispersion and wettability in the polyetherimide matrix and imparted excellent mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. The utilization of the hybrid filler was found to be effective in increasing the thermal conductivity of the composites due to the enhanced connectivity due to the high‐aspect‐ratio MWCNT filler. The use of spherical AlN filler and PI‐g MWCNT filler resulted in composite materials with enhanced thermal conductivity and low coefficient of thermal expansion. Results indicated that the hybrid PI‐g MWCNT and AlN fillers incorporated into the polyetherimide matrix enhanced significantly the thermal stability, thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of the matrix. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
The study of the charge collection of the normal‐collector configuration
Authors: Tan Chee Chin , Ong Vincent K. S. , Radhakrishnan K.
Published: March 2012

Charge collection is one of the crucial processes to collect the induced current when a semiconductor sample is subjected to some external excitations such as the electron or photon beams. The charge collection probability is the basis in the study of this induced current particularly in the field of photonic devices, photovoltaic cells as well as in the characterization of semiconductor materials and devices. In this paper, the analytical expressions for the charge collection probability of the finite‐dimension normal‐collector configuration, with and without surface recombination at the free surfaces are presented. An excellent agreement has been found between the charge collection probability profiles computed using the presently derived analytical expressions and those obtained using a device simulator. The results have been used to study the effects of the various physical parameters on the charge collection probability. These analytical expressions are expected to enhance our understanding of the charge collection process. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outsourcing Operations in Project Management Offices: The Reality of Brazilian Companies
Authors: Martins Vergilio Antonio , Martins Marcelo Ramos
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study is to explore the mechanisms that influence decisions regarding outsourcing competencies in the operation of project management offices (PMOs). The exploratory research described here involves the use of a web-based survey for enterprises in Brazil. In 78 of the survey's valid cases, the PMO is operated using the organization's internal resources. A possible conclusion is that the PMO is unlikely to positively relate to the culture of external services used by the organization and to use outsourcing to operate the PMO.
Structural and enzymatic characterization of BacD, an L‐amino acid dipeptide ligase from Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Shomura Yasuhito , Hinokuchi Emi , Ikeda Hajime , Senoo Akihiro , Takahashi Yuichi , Saito Jun‐ichi , Komori Hirofumi , Shibata Naoki , Yonetani Yoshiyuki , Higuchi Yoshiki
Published: March 2012

BacD is an ATP‐dependent dipeptide ligase responsible for the biosynthesis of L‐alanyl‐L‐anticapsin, a precursor of an antibiotic produced by Bacillus spp. In contrast to the well‐studied and phylogenetically related D‐alanine: D‐alanine ligase (Ddl), BacD synthesizes dipeptides using L‐amino acids as substrates and has a low substrate specificity in vitro. The enzyme is of great interest because of its potential application in industrial protein engineering for the environmentally friendly biological production of useful peptide compounds, such as physiologically active peptides, artificial sweeteners and antibiotics, but the determinants of its substrate specificity and its catalytic mechanism have not yet been established due to a lack of structural information. In this study, we report the crystal structure of BacD in complex with ADP and an intermediate analog, phosphorylated phosphinate L‐alanyl‐L‐phenylalanine, refined to 2.5‐Å resolution. The complex structure reveals that ADP and two magnesium ions bind in a manner similar to that of Ddl. However, the dipeptide orientation is reversed, and, concomitantly, the entrance to the amino acid binding cavity differs in position. Enzymatic characterization of two mutants, Y265F and S185A, demonstrates that these conserved residues are not catalytic residues at least in the reaction where L‐phenylalanine is used as a substrate. On the basis of the biochemical and the structural data, we propose a reaction scheme and a catalytic mechanism for BacD.
Toxicity of formic acid to red imported fire ants, Solenopsis invicta Buren
Authors: Chen Jian , Rashid Tahir , Feng Guolei
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Ants often compete with other ants for resources. Although formic acid is a common defensive chemical of formicine ants, it does not occur in any other subfamilies in Formicidae. No information on toxicity of formic acid to red imported fire ants, Solenopsis invicta, is available. This study examined its contact and fumigation toxicity to S. invicta in the laboratory.

RESULTS: In a contact toxicity bioassay, 24 h LD50 values of formic acid for workers ranged from 124.54 to 197.71 µg ant−1. Female alates and queens were much less sensitive to formic acid than workers. At a concentration of 271.72 µg ant−1, which killed 81.09 ± 16.04% of workers, the 24 h mortality was up to 39.64% for female alates and 38.89% for queens. In fumigation bioassays, 24 h LC50 values ranged from 0.26 to 0.50 µg mL−1 for workers, 0.32 µg mL−1 for male alates and 0.70 µg mL−1 for female alates. Complete mortality (100%) in queens occurred 24 h after they had been exposed to 1.57 µg mL−1 of formic acid. At a concentration of 2.09 µg mL−1, KT50 values ranged from 23.03 to 43.85 min for workers, from 37.84 to 58.37 min for male alates, from 86.06 to 121.05 min for female alates and from 68.00 to 85.92 min for queens.

CONCLUSION: When applied topically, formic acid was significantly less toxic than bifenthrin to red imported fire ants. Although its fumigation toxicity was lower than that of dichlorvos, formic acid had about an order of magnitude higher toxicity to S. invicta than to other insects studied so far. It may be worth investigating the use of formic acid for managing imported fire ants. Published 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of the Immunomodulatory Potential of Oryzanol Isolated from Crude Rice Bran Oil in Experimental Animal Models
Authors: Ghatak Somsuvra B. , Panchal Shital J.
Published: March 2012

Nutrition and nutritional status can influence the development, maintenance and optimal functioning of the immune system. Oryzanol (OZ), a commercially important bioactive phytochemical component of rice bran oil, has generated global interest on account of its several beneficial physiological effects on human health. The aim of the present investigation was to examine the effect of OZ, isolated from crude rice bran oil (cRBO), on the regulation of the immune response in experimental animal models. The isolated OZ was identified with respect to the standard by melting point determination, thin‐layer chromatography (TLC), UV‐visible spectrophotometry and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cellular immunity in rats was assessed by carbon clearance assay, delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) response and cyclophosphamide‐induced myelosuppression, whereas humoral immunity was analysed by haemagglutinating antibody (HA) titre assay. Oryzanol (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) evoked a significant increase in antibody titre values in the haemagglutination test and potentiated the delayed type hypersensitivity reaction induced by sheep red blood cells. It also significantly ameliorated myelosuppression in cyclophosphamide treated rats and showed an increase in phagocytic index in the carbon clearance assay. The findings from the study indicate that OZ possesses sufficient potential for augmenting immune activity by cellular and humoral mediated mechanisms. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.