bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stereocomplexation and morphology of enantiomeric poly(lactic acid)s with moderate‐molecular‐weight
Authors: Wang Yaming , Mano João F.
Published: October 2007

The thermal behavior and spherulitic morphologies of poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA)/poly(D‐lactic acid) (PDLA) 1/1 blend with weight‐molecular‐weight of 105 order, together with those of pure PLLA and PDLA, were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and polarized optical microscopy. It was found that in the blend, stereocomplex crystallites could be formed exclusively or coexisted with homocrystallites depending on thermal history. Banded to nonbanded spherulitic morphological transition occurred for melt‐crystallized PLLA and PDLA, while the blend presented exclusively nonbanded spherulitic morphologies in the temperature range investigated. The spherulite growth of the blend occurred within a wider temperature range (≤180°C) compared with that of homopolymers (≤150°C), while the spherulite growth rates were comparable for both the blend and homopolymers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Decreased biliary excretion of tributylmethyl ammonium in cholestyramine pretreated rats due to reduced formation of ion‐pair complexes with hepatic bile salts
Authors: Choi M. K. , Song I. S. , Kim D. D. , Chung S. J. , Shim C. K.
Published: October 2007

The hypothesis that higher molecular weight (MW) quaternary ammoniums (QAs) form lipophilic ion‐pair complexes with bile salts in the liver, and are subsequently excreted into bile via a canalicular transporter, P‐gp, was re‐examined in the present study for its validity. The biliary excretion of tributylmethyl ammonium (TBuMA), a QA with a MW of 200, in bile salt‐depleted rats was determined. Depletion was induced by a daily oral administration of a resin, cholestyramine, at a dose of 0.5 g/kg for 2 consecutive weeks, which decreased the concentration of total bile salts in the liver by 38%. When TBuMA was administered intravenously (12 µmol/kg) to these rats, the plasma level, area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC), systemic clearance (CL) and volume of distribution (Vss) of the compound remained unchanged, whereas bile flow (23.03 vs 16.94 µl/min,p<0.05) and biliary clearance (CLbile, 12.75 vs 5.34 ml/min/kg,p<0.01) were decreased significantly. These results implied the biliary clearance of TBuMA in rats with bile salt depletion was significantly decreased as a result of decreased ion‐pair complexation of TBuMA. The above results are consistent with our hypothesis and the existence of a MW threshold (i.e. 200±50 for rats) for the biliary excretion of QAs. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ketoprofen plasters
Authors: Heo Sung‐Koun , Cho Jeiwon , Cheon Ji‐Woong , Choi Min‐Koo , Im Dong‐Soon , Kim Jung Ju , Choi Yang Gyu , Jeon Do Yong , Chung Suk‐Jae , Shim Chang‐Koo , Kim Dae‐Duk
Published: October 2007

Ketoprofen plasters of 70 cm2 size using DuroTak® acrylic adhesive polymers were developed either containing 30 mg (Ketotop‐L) or 60 mg drug (Ketotop‐P). The in vitro skin permeation profile was obtained in hairless mouse skin and showed the permeation rate of Ketotop‐P to be twice that of Ketotop‐L. The plasma concentration profile of ketoprofen was determined in Sprague‐Dawley rats after applying a 3 × 3 cm2 plaster. AUC0−24h and Cmax of Ketotop‐P were 260.92 µg·h/ml and 25.09 µg/ml, respectively, which were about twice the values of Ketotop‐L. The hind paw edema induced by carrageenan injection was measured for 6 h after applying a 2 × 2 cm2 plaster, and the area under the time‐response curve (AUR) value was significantly lower in Ketotop‐P attached rats (180.70%·h) than in those with the Ketotop‐L (298.65%·h) and the control (407.04%·h) groups, indicating a stronger anti‐inflammatory action of Ketotop‐P. However, the analgesic effect of the two formulations did not show a statistically significant difference. In conclusion, Ketotop‐P was able to achieve higher plasma concentration of ketoprofen, thereby exhibiting higher and more constant anti‐inflammatory effect compared with Ketotop‐L. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laws, Constraints, and the Modeling Relation – History and Interpretations
Authors: Pattee Howard H.
Published: October 2007

The modeling relation and models of complex systems expressed by non‐integrable constraints were developed during ca. 1970–1987, when I worked most closely with Robert Rosen. I contrast the modeling relation within the organism itself as a necessary condition for life and evolution, as Rosen developed it in his fundamental work ‘Anticipatory Systems’, with the modeling relation within our brain as a necessary condition for understanding life, as Rosen developed it in ‘Life Itself’. Our approaches to the modeling relation were complementary. Rosen focused on the formal relational conditions necessary for life, and on the limitations that formal mathematical‐symbol systems impose on our models. I focused on the physical conditions necessary for these abstract relations to be realized, and on the symbolic control in organisms that allows open‐ended evolution. I contrast Rosen's views on physics and evolution in ‘Anticipatory Systems’ and later papers with his views in ‘Life Itself’, and I speculate on why they differ so greatly.
Re‐Mapping Robert Rosen's (M,R)‐Systems
Authors: Cottam Ron , Ranson Willy , Vounckx Roger
Published: October 2007

The central concern of this paper is to re‐evaluate Rosen's replicating (M,R)‐systems, presented in his book ‘Life Itself ’, where M and R signify metabolism and repair, respectively. We look anew at Rosen's model of an organism in the light of extensive research into natural hierarchical systems, and the paper presents conclusions drawn from a comparison between Rosen's relational model and that of a birational complementary natural hierarchy. We accept that Rosen's relational model provides a useful stepping stone to understanding the nature of life, but also suggest that it induces potentially digressive conclusions. We conclude that a binary segregation of relational assemblies into mechanisms and organisms is insufficient, and indicate how a threefold segregation throws new light on Rosen's model. An organism is not ‘the complement of a mechanism’: the complement of a mechanism is its ecosystem. An organism is the ‘complex interface’ between mechanism and ecosystem.
Entailment of Ambiguity
Authors: Kercel Stephen W.
Published: October 2007

Everything in Rosen's work flows from the principle of ‘closure to efficient cause’, the necessary and sufficient distinguishing feature of complexity, and a necessary distinguishing feature of an organism. Some students of Rosen find considerable confusion over the meaning of ‘closure to efficient cause’. Such confusion is unnecessary. The matter is entirely cleared up by the (M,R)‐system, a set of three algebraic maps. Each map must include one of the others in its co‐domain, and is itself in the co‐domain of the remaining map. Structurally, the three maps form a circular hierarchy of containment. This peculiar structure is Rosen's closure. Since each map represents an efficient cause, they reveal the character of efficient cause. The efficient cause of a process is represented as its ‘dynamical law’, and is a constraint that arises from the intersection of the morphology of the process and the inherent constraints in reality represented by the ‘laws of Nature’.

A critical, observable property (evidently unnoticed by Rosen), entailed by the closure, is its inherent ambiguity. From a foundation of ambiguity, the bizarre properties of complexity (e.g., non‐computability, non‐fractionability, undecidability, and incompleteness) follow in a straightforward manner, often with proofs simpler than those that Rosen discovered.
The Practical Modelling of Context‐Dependent Causal Processes – A Recasting of Robert Rosen's Thought
Authors: Edmonds Bruce
Published: October 2007

This paper is a critical recasting of some of Robert Rosen's thought. It is argued that a lot of the thrust of Rosen's work can be better understood when recast in terms of the context dependency of causal models. When recast in this way, I seek to highlight how his thought does not lead to the abandonment of formal modelling and a descent into relativism, but a more careful and rigours science of complex systems. This also sheds light on several aspects of modelling, including the need for multiple models, the nature of modelling noise, and why adaptive systems cause particular problems to modellers. In this way, I hope to decrease researchers fear that, by taking Rosen's criticisms seriously, they would have to abandon the realm of acceptable science.
Robert Rosen in the Age of Systems Biology
Authors: Thomas S. Randall
Published: October 2007

The widespread use of the term Systems Biology (SB) signals a welcome recognition that organisms must be understood as integrated systems. Although just what this is taken to mean varies from one group to another, it generally implies a focus on biological functions and processes rather than on biological parts and a reliance on mathematical modeling to arrive at an understanding of these biological processes based on biological observations or measurements. SB, thus, falls directly in the line of reflection carried out by Robert Rosen throughout his work. In the present article, we briefly introduce the various currents of SB and then point out several ways Rosen's work can be used to avoid certain pitfalls associated with the use of dynamical systems models for the study of complex systems, as well as to inspire a productive path forward based on loosely organized cooperation among dispersed laboratories.
Exploring the Temporal Consequences of Chasing the Elements in Rosen's Relational Diagrams
Authors: Prideaux Jeffrey A.
Published: October 2007

In the work ‘Life Itself’, Rosen showed that a formal mechanism cannot be ‘closed to efficient cause’. Additionally, he claimed that organisms are ‘closed to efficient cause’ and that, by logical extension, organisms cannot be mechanisms. This paper shows that it is possible for mechanisms to be ‘nearly closed to efficient cause’, with the requirement that some unentailed efficient‐cause agents are placed inside the system. Populations of these ‘nearly closed to efficient cause’ systems can be defined based on the ability to isolate each component in its own ‘reaction chamber’. Diagrams from these populations are drawn from a couple of different perspectives, and comments are made on how these diagrams can be related to the more conventional language of chemistry.
Variation, Natural Selection, and Information Content – A Simulation
Authors: Testa Bernard , Bojarski Andrzej J.
Published: October 2007

In Neo‐Darwinism, variation and natural selection are the two evolutionary mechanisms that propel biological evolution. Variation implies changes in the gene pool of a population, enlarging the genetic variability from which natural selection can choose. But in the absence of natural selection, variation causes dissipation and randomization. Natural selection, in contrast, constrains this variability by decreasing the survival and fertility of the less‐adapted organisms.

The objective of this study is to propose a highly simplified simulation of variation and natural selection, and to relate the observed evolutionary changes in a population to its information content. The model involves an imaginary population of individuals. A quantifiable character allows the individuals to be categorized into bins. The distribution of bins (a histogram) was assumed to be Gaussian. The content of each bin was calculated after one to twelve cycles, each cycle spanning N generations (N being undefined). In a first study, selection was simulated in the absence of variation. This was modeled by assuming a differential fertility factor F that increased linearly from the lower bins (F<1.00) to the higher bins (F>1.00). The fertility factor was applied as a multiplication factor during each cycle. Several ranges of fertility were investigated. The resulting histograms became skewed to the right. In a second study, variation was simulated in the absence of selection. This was modeled by assuming that during each cycle each bin lost a fixed percentage of its content (variation factor Y) to its two adjacent bins. The resulting histograms became broader and flatter, while retaining their bilateral symmetry. Different values of Y were monitored. In a third study, various values of F and Y were combined.

Our model allows the straightforward application of Shannon's equation and the calculation of a Shannon‐entropy (SE) values for each histogram. Natural selection was, thus, shown to result in a progressive decrease in SE as a function of F. In other words, natural selection, when acting alone, progressively increased the information content of the population. In contrast, variation resulted in a progressive increase in SE as a function of Y. In other words, variation acting alone progressively decreased the information content of a population. When both factors, F and Y, were applied simultaneously, their relative weight determined the progressive change in SE.
Water as a Complex System: Its Role in Ligand Diffusion, General Anesthesia, and Sleep
Authors: Kier Lemont B.
Published: October 2007

The work and inspiration of Robert Rosen is stated and expressed in personal tones. The concept of passages through water (H2O) near protein surfaces is reviewed in terms of it's influence on ligand diffusion to an effector. This is offered as a target for interference by a non‐specific general anesthetic agent. In view of the similarities between this anesthetic state and sleep, this mechanism is proposed to be operative for the sleep/wake states. Based on this mechanism and other factors, nitrogen (N2) is proposed as an exogenous sleep factor.
Causality and Complexity: The Myth of Objectivity in Science
Authors: Mikulecky Donald C.
Published: October 2007

Two distinctly different worldviews dominate today's thinking in science and in the world of ideas outside of science. Using the approach advocated by Robert M. Hutchins, it is possible to see a pattern of interaction between ideas in science and in other spheres such as philosophy, religion, and politics. Instead of compartmentalizing these intellectual activities, it is worthwhile to look for common threads of mutual influence. Robert Rosen has created an approach to scientific epistemology that might seem radical to some. However, it has characteristics that resemble ideas in other fields, in particular in the writings of George Lakoff, Leo Strauss, and George Soros. Historically, the atmosphere at the University of Chicago during Hutchins' presidency gave rise to Rashevsky's relational biology, which Rosen carried forward. Strauss was writing his political philosophy there at the same time. One idea is paramount in all this, and it is Lakoff who gives us the most insight into how the worldviews differ using this idea. The central difference has to do with causality, the fundamental concept that we use to build a worldview. Causal entailment has two distinct forms in Lakoff 's analysis: direct causality and complex causality. Rosen's writings on complexity create a picture of complex causality that is extremely useful in its detail, grounding in the ideas of Aristotle. Strauss asks for a return to the ancients to put philosophy back on track. Lakoff sees the weaknesses in Western philosophy in a similar way, and Rosen provides tools for dealing with the problem.

This introduction to the relationships between the thinking of these authors is meant to stimulate further discourse on the role of complex causal entailment in all areas of thought, and how it brings them together in a holistic worldview. The worldview built on complex causality is clearly distinct from that built around simple, direct causality. One important difference is that the impoverished causal entailment that accompanies the machine metaphor in science is unable to give us a clear way to distinguish living organisms from machines. Complex causality finds a dichotomy between organisms, which are closed to efficient cause, and machines, which require entailment from outside. An argument can be made that confusing living organisms with machines, as is done in the worldview using direct cause, makes religion a necessity to supply the missing causal entailment.
A Promising Method for Phosphinidene Generation: Complexes of Phosphinidenes with N‐Donor ligands
Authors: Benkõ Zoltán , Gudat Dietrich , Nyulászi László
Published: October 2007

1,3,2‐diazaphospholenes and related compounds can formally be regarded as complexes of phosphinidenes (RP) with 1,4‐diazabutadienes. The dissociation Gibbs free energies of these “complexes” were calculated by using density functional theory (B3LYP/3‐21G(*) and B3LYP/6‐311+G**). The dissociation Gibbs free energies show systematic dependence on the phosphorus substituent as well as on the stability of the N‐donor ligand formed as a byproduct. The thermodynamics and kinetics of the dissociations were thoroughly examined. The results allow us to conclude that novel routes of phosphinidene generation can be developed.
Total Synthesis and Selective Activity of a New Class of Conformationally Restrained Epothilones
Authors: Alhamadsheh Mamoun M. , Gupta Shuchi , Hudson Richard A. , Perera Lalith , Tillekeratne L. M. Viranga
Published: October 2007

Stereoselective total syntheses of two novel conformationally restrained epothilone analogues are described. Evans asymmetric alkylation, Brown allylation, and a diastereoselective aldol reaction served as the key steps in the stereoselective synthesis of one of the two key fragments of the convergent synthetic approach. Enzyme resolution was employed to obtain the second fragment as a single enantiomer. The molecules were assembled by esterification, followed by ring‐closing metathesis. In preliminary cytotoxicity studies, one of the analogues showed strong and selective growth inhibitory activity against two leukemia cell lines over solid human tumor cell lines. The precise biological mechanism of action and high degree of selectivity of this analogue remain to be examined.
The determination of the absolute configurations of chiral molecules using vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectroscopy
Authors: Stephens Philip J. , Devlin Frank J. , Pan Jian‐Jung
Published: October 2007

The vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra of the two enantiomers of a chiral molecule are of equal magnitude and opposite sign: i.e. mirror‐image enantiomers give mirror‐image VCD spectra. In principle, the absolute configuration (AC) of a chiral molecule can therefore be determined from its VCD spectrum. In practice, the determination of the AC of a chiral molecule from its experimental VCD spectrum requires a methodology which reliably predicts the VCD spectra of its enantiomers. The only reliable methodology developed to date uses the Stephens quantum‐mechanical theory of the rotational strengths of fundamental vibrational transitions, developed in the early 1980s, implemented using ab initio density functional theory in the GAUSSIAN program in the mid 1990s. This methodology has by now been widely used in determining ACs from experimental VCD spectra. In this article we discuss the protocol for determining the ACs of chiral molecules with optimum reliability and its implementation for a variety of molecules, including the D3 symmetry perhydrotriphenylene, a thiazino‐oxadiazolone recently shown to be a highly active calcium entry channel blocker, the alkaloid natural products schizozygine, iso‐schizogaline, and iso‐schizogamine, and the iridoid natural products plumericin, iso‐plumericin, and prismatomerin. The power of VCD spectroscopy in determining ACs, even for large organic molecules and for substantially conformationally‐flexible organic molecules is clearly documented. Chirality, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vom Zucker zum Ethanol: Eine experimentgestützte Erarbeitung von Stoffwechselvorgängen bei der Gärung
Authors: Heimann Rebekka , Müller Karina
Published: October 2007

Bei der alkoholischen Gärung, zu der z.B. die Hefe befähigt ist, werden Zucker wie Rohrzucker (Saccharose), Traubenzucker (Glucose) und Fruchtzucker (Fructose) zu Ethanol und Kohlenstoffdioxid abgebaut. Dies läuft über komplexe biochemische Prozesse. Die in diesem Beitrag dargestellte Konzeption soll Schülerinnen und Schülern einen aktiven Zugang zur Thematik der Gärung bei Hefe ermöglichen, indem Teilschritte der Gärung experimentell untersucht werden und historisch relevante Überlegungen zum Verlauf der Gärung einbezogen und überprüft werden. Es werden zumeist einfach realisierbare Experimente zur Spaltung des Rohrzuckers in Traubenzucker und Fruchtzucker vorgestellt. Ein weiteres Experiment beschäftigt sich mit der Spaltung des Zwischenprodukts Brenztraubensäure zu Acetaldehyd und Kohlenstoffdioxid. Außerdem wird gezeigt, dass Hefe die Fähigkeit besitzt, Stoffe zu reduzieren, eine Fähigkeit, die sie z.B. für die Reduktion von Acetaldehyd zum Endprodukt Ethanol benötigt.

Bei der Bearbeitung der Frage nach dem Verlauf der Gärung wird deutlich, dass einzelne Experimente nicht zum Ziel führen, sondern Aussagen erst durch Kombination verschiedener Befunde möglich werden. Dadurch kann das kritische Auswerten experimenteller Beobachtungen geschult werden.

Das Reaktionsschema der Gärung wird in vereinfachter Form behandelt und kann durch die Formulierung des Reaktionsverlaufs mit Summen‐ und Konstitutionsformeln ergänzt werden. Weitere Informationen zur didaktischen Reduktion der Glycolyse, also des Abbaus vom Zucker bis zur Brenztraubensäure, findet man in [11], Informationen zum Glucoseabbau im menschlichen Körper z.B. in [12].
Kombinatorische Chemie oder: Wie kann man den Aufwand bei der Suche nach neuen Wirkstoffen verringern?
Authors: Pustowka Patricia , Bader Hans Joachim
Published: October 2007

Ein wesentliches Ziel naturwissenschaftlichen Unterrichts ist es, Basiskonzepte der zugrunde liegenden Wissenschaften sowie deren Verknüpfung mit der Lebens‐ und Alltagswelt der Schülerinnen und Schüler zu vermitteln. Bedenkt man die wenigen naturwissenschaftlichen Konzepte und die geringen chemischen Kenntnisse, die viele Erwachsene aus der Schulzeit in ihr Berufs‐ und Alltagsleben „hinüberretten”︁, so muss dieses Ziel äußerst ernst genommen werden. Vor diesem Hintergrund ist die Forderung nach einer Beschränkung des Stoffes und einer Konzentration auf Wesentliches zu stellen.

Allerdings befindet sich die Chemiedidaktik hier in einem Dilemma: Das Grundwissen ist klar definierbar, der Bezug zur Lebens‐ und Alltagswelt ändert sich aber laufend. Neue Kraftstoffe auf pflanzlicher Basis oder Lithium‐Polymer‐Zellen für Laptops und Handys sind nur zwei Beispiele. Werden ausschließlich petrostämmige Kraftstoffe und der Bleiakkumulator behandelt, verzichtet der Unterricht auf wichtige Bezüge und vermittelt ein mehr und mehr historisches Bild der Chemie.

Ohne Zweifel kann und soll jedoch im Chemieunterricht nicht jede Neuentwicklung berücksichtigt werden. Das gilt ganz besonders dann, wenn nicht übergreifende Prinzipien, sondern Kenntnisse über Einzelverbindungen, Details von Reaktionen oder Verfahren zur Diskussion stehen. Grundsätzliche und weit tragende neue Ansätze dürfen aber nicht negiert werden. Diese Gefahr besteht besonders dann, wenn neue Strategien, Entwicklungen oder Ergebnisse nicht unmittelbar im Alltag sichtbar, gleichwohl aber von hoher Bedeutung in Forschung und Entwicklung sind.

Wir konzentrieren uns in unseren derzeitigen Arbeiten dar auf, solche grundlegenden neuen wissenschaftlichen Strategien exemplarisch für den Chemieunterricht zugänglich zu machen. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden schulchemische Ansätze vorgestellt, die zeigen, wie durch die Anwendung so genannter kombinatorischer Methoden die Suche nach Substanzen mit bestimmten Eigenschaftsprofilen gestaltet werden kann.
Die Reaktion von Ethanol mit Magnesium und Zink
Authors: Schelle Thomas , Strecker Hans , Habekost Achim
Published: October 2007

Um Sauerstoff in organischen Verbindungen nachzuweisen, wird in den meisten Schulbüchern der Versuch Ethanol reagiert mit Magnesium herangezogen, bei dem das Magnesium durch den im Ethanol chemisch gebundenen Sauerstoff oxidiert werden soll. Nach Auskunft der Schulbücher soll dabei ausschließlich Wasserstoff entstehen, wie etwa die Abb. 1 aus einem Schulbuch [1] nahe legt: Man erhält weder in der Abbildung noch im Text einen Hinweis auf weitere gasförmige Produkte außer auf Wasserstoff. Unklar ist zudem, was mit den Ethanolrest passiert, dem der Sauerstoff entzogen wurde und ob tatsächlich Magnesiumoxid entsteht.
Heparanase up‐regulation in tongue cancer
Authors: Nagler Rafael , Ben‐Izhak Ofer , Cohen‐Kaplan Victoria , Shafat Itay , Vlodavsky Israel , Akrish Sharon , Ilan Neta
Published: October 2007

BACKGROUND.

Heparanase up‐regulation has been correlated with reduced postoperative survival in various cancers.

METHODS.

Heparanase expression was analyzed in 60 consenting tongue (mobile) cancer patients by means of immunohistochemistry. Heparanase levels were also analyzed in the saliva of both healthy controls and tongue cancer patients using a novel heparanase enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method.

RESULTS.

Heparanase staining was positive (>0) in 92% and negative (=0) in 8% of the tumors and staining intensity correlated with tumor size and tumor stage. Moreover, the survival probability of patients negative for heparanase (=0) at 60 months was 100%, compared with only 41% for patients positive for heparanase (>0), suggesting that heparanase may serve as a prognostic factor for this malignancy and an attractive target for anticancer drug development. Heparanase was detected in the saliva of healthy controls and the mean concentration was determined as 119 ± 37 pg/mL. Importantly, a nearly 3‐fold increase of heparanase levels was detected in saliva collected from tongue cancer patients (334 ± 69 pg/mL), a difference that is statistically highly significant (P = .004).

CONCLUSIONS.

These findings support heparanase up‐regulation in tongue cancer and raise the possibility of using this simple test as a diagnostic tool to monitor tongue cancer progression and response to treatment. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Molecule‐Enhanced Surface‐Enhanced Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy (MOSEIRA)
Authors: Kosower Edward M. , Markovich Gil , Borz Galina
Published: October 2007

Surface‐enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (SEIRA) of methanol, ethanol, 1‐propanol, and 2‐propanol in thin films on planar silver halide (AgX) fibers under slow N2 flow using 1 sec scans reveals structure in absorbance–time plots. The absorption intensities show extra enhancements (3×) in the absorbance (OH stretch) ascribed to oligomers present at the AgX surface (molecule enhanced, thus MOSEIRA).This is above those due to amplification (40×, 20 reflections) and enhancement (30×, image dipoles or surface phonon polaritons). In the case of ethanol an excellent initial pentamer spectrum evolves over 8–10 min to a mixture of pentamer, tetramer, and trimer spectra that within another minute forms small oligomers and monomers. We use a new type of cell for infrared spectroscopy containing an AgX planar fiber. The optical configuration leads to a vicinal region at the surface defined by evanescent waves. Within this region are surface‐induced organized species such as ethanol oligomers. The planar AgX fiber supports 20 reflections and transmits light over a wide visible–infrared wavelength range. Short scan times permit the study of volatile substrates or solvents, including the effects of solvent polarity.
Characteristics and key findings for ‘Vaccines for women to prevent neonatal tetanus’
Authors: van Dalen Elvira , Offringa Martin , Kremer Leontien
Published: October 2007

These are the characteristics and key findings for a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Demicheli V, Barale A, Rivetti A. Vaccines for women to prevent neonatal tetanus. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2005, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD002959. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002959.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Commentary articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Characteristics and key findings for ‘Prophylactic antibiotics for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease’
Authors: van Dalen Elvira , Offringa Martin , Kremer Leontien
Published: October 2007

These are the characteristics and key findings for a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Hirst C, Owusu‐Ofori S. Prophylactic antibiotics for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2002, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003427. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003427.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Commentary articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Characteristics and key findings for ‘Therapeutic interventions for Burkitt’s lymphoma in children'
Authors: van Dalen Elvira , Offringa Martin , Kremer Leontien
Published: October 2007

These are the characteristics and key findings for a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Okebe JU, Lasserson TJ, Meremikwu MM, Richards S. Therapeutic interventions for Burkitt's lymphoma in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD005198. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005198.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Commentary articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Summary of ‘Corticosteroids for treating dengue shock syndrome’
Authors: Milne Andrea
Published: October 2007

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Panpanich R, Sornchai P, Kanjanaratanakorn K. Corticosteroids for treating dengue shock syndrome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003488. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003488.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying Commentary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Summary of ‘Prophylactic antibiotics for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease’
Authors: Milne Andrea
Published: October 2007

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Hirst C, Owusu‐Ofori S. Prophylactic antibiotics for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2002, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003427. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003427.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying Commentary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Commentary on ‘Prophylactic antibiotics for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease’
Authors: Raphael Jean L. , Mueller Brigitta U.
Published: October 2007

This is a commentary on a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Hirst C, Owusu‐Ofori S. Prophylactic antibiotics for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2002, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD003427. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003427.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Cochrane review: Prophylactic antibiotics for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Hirst C , Owusu‐Ofori S
Published: October 2007

Background

People with sickle cell disease are particularly susceptible to infection. Infants and very young children are especially vulnerable, and the 'Co‐operative Study of Sickle Cell Disease' observed an incidence rate of 10 per 100 patient years of pneumococcal septicaemia in children under the age of three. Vaccines, including customary pneumococcal vaccines, may be of limited use in this age group. Therefore, prophylactic penicillin regimens may be advisable for this population.

Objectives

To assess the effects of prophylactic antibiotic regimens for preventing pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease.

Search strategy

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register, which is comprised of references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings.

Date of the most recent search: May 2006.

Selection criteria

All randomised or quasi‐randomised controlled trials comparing prophylactic antibiotics to prevent pneumococcal infection in children with sickle cell disease with placebo, no treatment or a comparator drug.

Data collection and analysis

Both authors independently extracted data and assessed trial quality.

Main results

Five trials were identified by the initial search, of which three trials met the inclusion criteria. All of the included trials showed a reduced incidence of infection in children with sickle cell disease (SS or Sβ0Thal) receiving prophylactic penicillin. In trials which investigated initiation of penicillin on risk of pneumococcal infection, the odds ratio was 0.37 (95% CI 0.16 to 0.86), while for withdrawal the odds ratio was 0.49 (95% CI 0.09 to 2.71). Adverse drug effects were rare and minor. Rates of pneumococcal infection were found to be relatively low in children over the age of five.

Authors' conclusions

Prophylactic penicillin significantly reduces risk of pneumococcal infection in children with homozygous sickle cell disease, and is associated with minimal adverse reactions. Further research may help to determine the ideal age to safely withdraw penicillin.

Plain language summary

Regular preventative antibiotics can reduce the risk of pneumococcal infection in young children with sickle cell disease

People with sickle cell disease are prone to infection, particularly respiratory infections and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Pneumococcal bacteria often cause these. Some vaccines are less effective in children younger than three years of age. Therefore, antibiotics can be given regularly to try and prevent infection in young children. The review found that penicillin reduced the rate of pneumococcal infection in children under the age of five with sickle cell disease, without major adverse effects. Older children were found to have a lower risk of infection, and therefore regular penicillin may not be as important in these children.
Cochrane review: Therapeutic interventions for Burkitt's lymphoma in children
Authors: Okebe JU , Lasserson TJ , Meremikwu MM , Richards S
Published: October 2007

Background

Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) is a small non‐cleaved cell lymphoma which commonly presents as jaw swellings. Uncertainty remains as to the most effective form of management.

Objectives

To assess the evidence of any therapeutic strategy in the treatment of BL.

Search strategy

We searched MEDLINE (1966 ‐ March 2006), LILACS (1982 ‐ March 2006), EMBASE (1974 ‐ March 2006) and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (all years, latest Issue 01/2006) to identify relevant trials. All of these references were accessed in order to identify additional trials in BL.

Selection criteria

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of any duration were included. We included studies conducted in children with a confirmed diagnosis of BL. Studies were not restricted by geographical location or by language of publication. Any therapeutic intervention was considered. The primary outcome was overall survival.

Data collection and analysis

Two reviewers assessed studies for relevance. Studies that met the entry criteria were assessed for study quality. Data were extracted independently and were entered into RevMan 4.2.

Main results

Twelve studies met the entry criteria of the review but data could only be retrieved from ten. Inadequate reporting of study methodology was a common feature of the trials preventing thorough assessment of study quality. We were unable to pool data for any of the outcomes due to the differences between the interventions assessed in the studies. Seven studies aimed to induce remission: Overall survival did not differ significantly between treatment groups in three out of four studies reporting this outcome. Five studies aimed to maintain remission: In two out of three studies reporting survival, it was substantially, but not statistically significantly, different between treatment groups.

Authors' conclusions

This review does not currently provide any strong evidence on the relative effectiveness of interventions to treat Burkitt's lymphoma. The studies that have been conducted to date are small, underpowered and prone to both systematic and random error.

Plain language summary

Burkitt's lymphoma is an important cancer particularly in children. It is a fast growing tumour but also very sensitive to chemotherapy. Different regimens have been used to treat this condition with varied success rates. This review was to evaluate these treatments to assess their effectiveness in providing lasting cure.
Data could only be reviewed for ten studies but results were difficult to collate due to study and reporting quality, with differing outcome measures, small trial sizes, and each addressing a different question. There is need for further research on treatment options.
Cochrane review: Corticosteroids for treating dengue shock syndrome
Authors: Panpanich R , Sornchai P , Kanjanaratanakorn K
Published: October 2007

Background

Dengue shock syndrome is the most severe from of dengue haemorrhagic fever, one of the leading causes of death in children. Observational studies have suggested corticosteroids may benefit people with dengue shock syndrome.

Objectives

To compare corticosteroids with placebo or no corticosteroids for treating dengue shock syndrome.

Search strategy

We searched the Cochrane Infectious Disease Group Specialized Register (January 2006), CENTRAL (The Cochrane Library 2005, Issue 4), MEDLINE (1966 to January 2006), EMBASE, (1974 to January 2006), LILACS (1982 to January 2006), and reference lists. We also contacted researchers.

Selection criteria

Randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled trials comparing corticosteroids with no corticosteroids or placebo in people diagnosed with dengue shock syndrome.

Data collection and analysis

Two authors independently applied the inclusion criteria, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality. We calculated the relative risk (RR) for dichotomous data and weighted mean difference for continuous data, and presented them with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Main results

Four trials involving 284 participants met the inclusion criteria. Corticosteroids were no more effective than placebo or no treatment for reducing the number of deaths (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.42 to 1.11; 284 participants, 4 trials), the need for blood transfusion (RR 1.08, 0.52 to 2.24; 89 participants, 2 trials), or the number of serious complications (convulsions and pulmonary haemorrhage) as reported in one trial (63 participants).

Authors' conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to justify the use of corticosteroids in managing dengue shock syndrome. As corticosteroids can potentially do harm, clinicians should not use them unless they are participating in a randomized controlled trial comparing corticosteroids with placebo.

Plain language summary

No good evidence that corticosteroids are helpful in dengue shock syndrome

The dengue virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause either a mild illness with fever or a more severe illness with fever and bleeding (dengue haemorrhagic fever). The bleeding is generally seen as tiny red spots on the skin but can occasionally be more severe affecting the nose, gums, and gut. In its most severe form it can cause shock, collapse, and sometimes death (dengue shock syndrome). The current treatment for dengue shock syndrome is to give fluids directly into the bloodstream, but corticosteroids have been suggested as drugs that may help due to their anti‐inflammatory properties. This review of trials found only four small trials (with 284 participants) that were not of good quality and which showed no benefit overall. Further trials would be needed before this drug were used in these patients, as there is the potential for adverse effects due to the drugs' properties of suppressing the immune system and potentially leaving people open to other infections.
Commentary on ‘Vaccines for women to prevent neonatal tetanus’
Authors: Avenant Theunis , Pattinson R. C.
Published: October 2007

This is a commentary on a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Demicheli V, Barale A, Rivetti A. Vaccines for women to prevent neonatal tetanus. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2005, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD002959. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002959.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying EBCH Summary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Summary of ‘Therapeutic interventions for Burkitt's lymphoma in children’
Authors: Milne Andrea
Published: October 2007

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Okebe JU, Lasserson TJ, Meremikwu MM, Richards S. Therapeutic interventions for Burkitt's lymphoma in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD005198. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005198.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying Commentary and Characteristics and Key Findings Tables articles. Copyright © 2007 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
The political economy of natural disaster insurance: lessons from the failure of a proposed compulsory insurance scheme in Germany
Authors: Schwarze Reimund , Wagner Gert G.
Published: October 2007

This paper studies the politico‐economic reasons for the refusal of a proposed compulsory flood insurance scheme in Germany. It provides the rationale for such a scheme and outlines the basic features of a market‐orientated design. The main reasons for the political rejection of this proposal were the misperceived costs of a state guarantee, legal objections against a compulsory insurance, distributional conflicts between the federal government and the German states on the implied administrative costs and the well known charity hazard of ad hoc disaster relief. The focus on pure market solutions proved to be an ineffective strategy for policy advice in this field. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
The Slovak national SD strategy process: a mix of achievements and shortcomings
Authors: Sedlačko Michal
Published: October 2007

National strategies for sustainable development are gaining increasing recognition as an instrument to reconcile needs of development and environmental protection by improving policy‐making procedures. The paper assesses the Slovak sustainable development strategy in the context of two key documents, the National Strategy for Sustainable Development of the Slovak Republic (MESR, 2001a) and the Action Plan for Sustainable Development of the Slovak Republic for 2005–2010 (OGSR, 2005). Focus is mainly placed on horizontal policy integration, but institutional arrangements and mechanisms for implementation, monitoring and review, stakeholder participation and vertical integration are also assessed. Based on the results of a series of interviews with ministerial planners and utilizing the example of the Working Group for Environmental Education, the paper identifies barriers to horizontal policy integration. The main conclusion is that improvement of mechanisms for horizontal policy integration is offset by recession in other areas, including public participation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Influence of filling fat type on praline products with nougat filling
Authors: Pajin Biljana , Karlović Đerđ , Omorjan Radovan , Sovilj Verica , Antić Danka
Published: October 2007

The aim of this research was to examine the composition and functional characteristics of three samples of commercial filling fat intended for the making of nougat fillings for confectionary products. The crystallization rate of the fats was measured under static conditions using the NMR technique and under dynamic conditions as well as using a rotational rheometer. The functional characteristics of the fats were estimated by means of sensory values of the prepared praline product. Under the static conditions, all investigated filling fats showed a fast crystallization rate (˜2–4%/min). The sample with the highest lauric acid contents started to crystallize immediately (no induction period). The longest induction period was found for the sample with the lowest saturated fatty acid and trans fatty acid contents. During the crystallization under dynamic conditions, all investigated samples started to crystallize more rapidly (rapid viscosity increase) at practically the same temperature (˜17 °C). Measuring solid fat content and viscosity are two approaches of determining the suitability of a filling fat to be used in pralines. Both measurements provide valuable information, and particularly viscosity build‐up is very important from the view of production on factory scale.
Differentiation of mixtures of monovarietal olive oils by mid‐infrared spectroscopy and chemometrics
Authors: Gurdeniz Gozde , Tokatli Figen , Ozen Banu
Published: October 2007

Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy in combination with chemometric techniques has become a useful tool for authenticity determination of extra‐virgin olive oils. Spectroscopic analysis of monovarietal extra‐virgin olive oils obtained from three different olive cultivars (Erkence, Ayvalik and Nizip) and mixtures (Erkence‐Nizip and Ayvalik‐Nizip) of monovarietal olive oils was performed with an FT‐IR spectrometer equipped with a ZnSe attenuated total reflection sample accessory and a deuterated tri‐glycine sulfate detector. Using spectral data, principal component analysis successfully classified each cultivar and differentiated the mixtures from pure monovarietal oils. Quantification of two different monovarietal oil mixtures (2–20%) is achieved using partial least square (PLS) regression models. Correlation coefficients (R2) of the proposed PLS regression models are 0.94 and 0.96 for the Erkence‐Nizip and Ayvalik‐Nizip mixtures, respectively. Cross‐validation was applied to check the goodness of fit for the PLS regression models, and R2 of the cross‐validation was determined as 0.84 and 0.91, respectively, for the two mixtures.