bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal Dynamics of Bacterio‐ and Phytoplankton in Large and Shallow Eutrophic Lake Võrtsjärv, Estonia
Authors: Kisand Veljo , Nõges Tiina
Published: February 2007

The seasonal dynamics of bacterioplankton abundance, biomass and production was measured in the large (surface area 270 km2) and shallow (mean depth 2.8 m) Lake Võrtsjärv during one year. Bacterial biomass and heterotrophic activity (production) was measured using thymidine and leucine incorporation methods. The bacterial biomass production was estimated by leucine incorporation, the cell number production by thymidine incorporation. Primary production and photosynthetic extracellular release was measured simultaneously to evaluate their role on heterotrophic bacterial activity. Relationships between released fraction of primary production and heterotrophic bacteria, as well as between biomass of bacteria and biomass/composition of phytoplankton are discussed. In terms of the carbon balance, the total primary production could support carbon need of heterotrophic bacteria in Lake Võrtsjärv. Neither biomass nor activity of bacteria showed tight coupling to primary production over the whole investigation period. In spring and summer the relationship between bacterial production and primary production was weak. The development of cyanobacterial bloom in summer provided more substrates for heterotrophic bacteria than diatoms in spring. In autumn both activity of bacteria and algae decreased rapidly in a coupled manner.
Short Term Bioturbation Activity in the Lagoonal Sediments of Tikehau Atoll (Tuamotu Archipelago, French Polynesia)
Authors: Hily Christian , Frouin Patrick
Published: February 2007

To quantify bioturbation activity in Tikehau lagoon, a tracer made of black basaltic sand was poured over the natural white calcareous sediment surface. Three stations respectively located on the inner flat (‐3m), the inner slope (‐9m), and the lagoon floor (‐19m), were studied for short periods of time (48 hours). Bioturbation by macrofauna was quantified by volume of sediment ejected onto the experimental surface and by volume of tracer incorporated into sediment. The results showed a rapid incorporation of sedimented particles at the interface by way of the funnels and burrows of surface deposit feeders and carnivores. Expelled quantities varied with respect to site location: 213 cm3 · m−2 · 24 h−1 in the inner flat; 98.9 cm3 · m−2 · 24 h−1 in the inner slope; 7.9 m3 · m−2 · 24 h−1 in the lagoon floor. Bioturbation by decapod megafauna appeared to be important in the dynamics of the sediments in the deepest areas of the lagoon. In these areas, with almost no hydrodynamical impacts on sediments, bioturbating events were responsible for sediment mixing (despite lower absolute rates than in shallow area). Hydrodynamics controlled the spatial distribution of macroinvertebrate trophic groups by its effects on sedimentation.
Tendency of the Amphipod Gammarus roeseli Gervais to Colonize Coarse Sediment Habitats under Fish Predation Pressure
Authors: Starry Olyssa , Wanzenböck Josef , Danielopol Dan L.
Published: February 2007

Many invertebrates react to the actual presence and/or to chemical cues from predators. However, there is lack of information on the interrelationship of different cues triggering the antipredator response. In a series of aquarium experiments we investigated to which extent the antipredator response of a freshwater amphipod (Gammarus roeseli), i.e. seeking refuge in coarse substrate, is influenced by the actual presence of a natural fish predator (the ruffe, Gymnocephalus cernuus) including mechanical and visual cues, purely chemical cues, as well as the thickness of the sediment layer. Presence of Gammarus roeseli on the substrate surface and activity was videotaped under different conditions and evaluated according to a standard protocol. Even without fish present and without fish chemicals Gammarus roeseli moved into the substrate because of thigmotactic behavior. The presence of ruffe accelerated this phenomenon and fish odor elicited weaker responses. Gammarus roeseli was able to recognize the approach of fish predators both visually and/or mechanically.
The ligand Jelly Belly (Jeb) activates the Drosophila Alk RTK to drive PC12 cell differentiation, but is unable to activate the Mouse ALK RTK
Authors: Yang Hai‐Ling , Eriksson Therese , Vernersson Emma , Vigny Marc , Hallberg Bengt , Palmer Ruth H.
Published: February 2007

The Drosophila Alk receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) drives founder cell specification in the developing visceral mesoderm and is crucial for the formation of the fly gut. Activation of Alk occurs in response to the secreted ligand Jelly Belly. No homologues of Jelly Belly are described in vertebrates, therefore we have approached the question of the evolutionary conservation of the Jeb–Alk interaction by asking whether vertebrate ALK is able to function in Drosophila. Here we show that the mouse ALK RTK is unable to rescue a Drosophila Alk mutant, indicating that mouse ALK is unable to recognise and respond to the Drosophila Jeb molecule. Furthermore, the overexpression of a dominant‐negative Drosophila Alk transgene is able to block the visceral muscle fusion event, which an identically designed dominant‐negative construct for the mouse ALK is not. Using PC12 cells as a model for neurite outgrowth, we show here for the first time that activation of dAlk by Jeb results in neurite extension. However, the mouse Alk receptor is unable to respond in any way to the Drosophila Jeb protein in the PC12 system. In conclusion, we find that the mammalian ALK receptor is unable to respond to the Jeb ligand in vivo or in vitro. These results suggest that either (i) mouse ALK and “mouse Jeb” have co‐evolved to the extent that mALK can no longer recognise the Drosophila Jeb ligand or (ii) that the mALK RTK has evolved such that it is no longer activated by a Jeb‐like molecule in vertebrates. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 308B:269–282, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Oxidative Coupling Polymerization of Substituted Phenols with a Copper Amine Catalyst Immobilized within Mesoporous Silica
Authors: Shibasaki Yuji , Nakamura Masahiro , Kondo Junko N. , Ueda Mitsuru
Published: February 2007

SBA‐15‐supported CuCl catalyst was prepared for the regio‐controlled oxidative polymerization of phenol derivatives. The solid‐supported catalyst was fully characterized by X‐ray, elemental analysis, TEM observation, and nitrogen absorption‐desorption experiment, and CuCl was found to be uniformly immobilized in the mesopores. This catalyst was employed for the oxidative polymerization of 2,5‐dimethylphenol and o‐cresol, resulting in excellent regio‐selectivity during the polymerization.
Natural Weathering Evaluation of LDPE‐Mango Starch Blends by Mechanical Properties and High Field NMR
Authors: Rodrigues Tathiane Cordeiro , Tavares Maria Inês Bruno , Pita Victor Jayme Roget Rodriguez
Published: February 2007

The low‐density polyethylene/mango starch blends were obtained and submitted a natural degradation. Their mechanical properties and structures changes were determined by tensile, low and high field nuclear magnetic resonance characterization after different weathering times. The exposition time and starch content could be correlated to the polymer matrix changes from void formation theories. The blend deformations were affected by the starch degradation time. The starch degradation, confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance, could be able to form voids and improve the blends fragmentability at relative low weathering times.
Rheological Properties of Polystyrene‐Organophilic Layered Silicate Nanocomposites
Authors: Han Seung San , Kim Yong Seok , Lee Sung Goo , Lee Jae Heung , Zhang Ke , Choi Hyoung Jin
Published: February 2007

A series of nanocomposites based on polystyrene (PS) and organophilic layered silicates (OLS) were prepared by solution blending method using organophilically modified silicate with ammonium salt of poly(styrene‐ran‐(4‐vinylbenzyl chloride)). Two different types of base layered silicate were used for the preparation of the nanocomposites: sodium montmorillonite (Na‐MMT) and synthetic smectite (SWN). The morphology and thermal stability of the PS/OLS nanocomposites were characterized by TEM and TGA. The rheological properties of the nanocomposites were investigated using a stress‐controlled rotational rheometer under small amplitude oscillation and steady transient shear in their melt state. In addition, the effects of the contents and aspect ratio of OLS on the melt rheological properties were investigated.
The Influence of the Chemical Additives in Polystyrene on the Features of Flocculants Obtained During Sulphonation of the Polystyrene
Authors: Sułkowski Wiesłw W. , Wolińska Agnieszka , Pentak Danuta , Maślanka Sławomir , Sułkowska Anna
Published: February 2007

Sumary: One of the ways of polymer waste management is its chemical modification. Waste polystyrene foam (EPS) and virgin polystyrene (VPS) as reference material were converted into polymeric flocculants by chemical reactions. One of the most popular and widely used procedures to follow the flocculation kinetics is the monitoring of the turbidity as a function of the polyelectrolyte dosage. The application of the obtained products caused a significant decrease of turbidity of the studied solutions. The products were successfully used as flocculants in the treatment of waste water. A colloid system composed of ferrum(III) hydroxide formed the discharge model.
Study of Conductivity of dEPDM Rubber and PAni Blends
Authors: Alvares Daniela A. , Moreira José C. , Soares Demétrio A. W. , Machado Wagner S. , Scuracchio Carlos H. , Onmori Roberto K.
Published: February 2007

Blending is a promising approach, in the conducting polymer field, for taking advantage of the good mechanical properties and processability of conventional polymers and of the electroative properties of such conjugated polymers. The challenge of producing blends with conducting polymers has been studied by many researchers in the last years. Several approaches have been used to prepare these blends such as, eletrochemical deposition, in situ chemical polymerization, powder dispersion, melt blending and solution blending. Among the conducting polymers, blends with polyanilines have obtained the greatest technological importance due to the remarkable properties of such conductive polymer namely, easy of synthesis and doping, environmental stability, solubility and processability. In this work, blends of polyaniline (PAni) doped with dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) and ethylene‐propylene‐diene‐monomer rubber devulcanizated (dEPDM) by microwave were prepared by mechanical process. This EPDM used is a recycled material originating from car spare industry. Flexible, free‐standing and stretchable films were obtained, which were characterized by electrical conductivity measurements. As expected, the blend conductivity gets higher with increasing contents of conducting polymer. The onset of the conductivity at low contents of conducting polymer indicates a low percolation threshold for the blends. The rubbery and conductive properties of these blends are great to produce devices like touch pad, weight and pressure measurer, etc.
Sulphur Hexafluoride Plasma Treatment to Enhance the Hydrophobicity of CVD Carbon Coatings Produced on Cornstarch Plasticized Films
Authors: Simão Renata A. , da Silva Monica L.V.J. , Martins Moema , Thiré Rossana M.S.M. , Andrade Cristina T.
Published: February 2007

In this work, a new coating strategy was successfully developed and promising results indicate a significant reduction of the water sensibility of cornstarch films coated by chemical vapour deposition (CVD). Amorphous carbon coatings (a‐C:H) produced from methane (CH4) were submitted to different sulphur hexafluoride plasma treatments. The best results were obtained for cornstarch films coated with a 50 nm‐thick CH4 plasma coating and treated with SF6 for 60 s. This surface modification led to a significant increase in the surface hydrophobicity, with measured contact angle of 85°. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to evaluate local surface modifications upon the a‐C:H coating and after the SF6 plasma treatment. Results indicate that the cornstarch films were homogeneously coated using CH4. SF6 treatment led to a plasma etching of the surface, changing completely the observed morphology. Fluorine was incorporated to the surface.
Henequen/Unsaturated Polyester Biocomposites: Electron Beam Irradiation Treatment and Alkali Treatment Effects on the Henequen Fiber
Authors: Han Young Hee , Han Seong Ok , Cho Donghwan , Kim Hyung‐Il
Published: February 2007

Henequen natural fiber reinforced unsaturated polyester biocomposites were fabricated and characterized. Henequen fibers were treated with various electron beam irradiation (EBI) dose or different concentrations of alkali solution. The effects of EBI or alkali treatments on the both henequen fiber and the properties of biocomposites made of unsaturated polyester and henequen fiber were compared by Fourier transform infrared spectra, thermal gravimetric analysis and dynamic mechanical analysis. Characteristics of the henequen fiber surface showed differently depending on the treatments and there is a close relationship between the optimal surface treatment of henequen fiber and the highest performance of the biocomposite resulting from the good adhesion between fiber and matrix.
Encapsulation of Platelets by Physical and Chemical Approaches
Authors: Voorn D. J. , Ming W. , van Herk A. M.
Published: February 2007

The Eindhoven group on emulsion polymerization has contributed to the field of encapsulation of many types of particles like pigments, fillers and clay particles, preparation of hollow multicompartment particles and encapsulation of nanotubes with latex particles. All these developments are very relevant for the next generation of coatings in which, more than in the past, improved properties are related to nanostructuring of the components in the coatings. Recently, interest has grown for the encapsulation of natural layered silicates, better known as clay platelets, and the formation of subsequent polymer‐clay nanocomposites. In this paper we summarize our recent successful attempts to encapsulate platelet particles by a physical approach (controlled heterocoagulation of gibbsite and polymer latex particles, followed by thermal annealing of the polymer) and a chemical approach (starved‐feed, surfactant‐free emulsion polymerization in the presence of covalently modified clays).
Lateral force and centroid location caused by horizontal and vertical surcharge strip loads on a cross‐anisotropic backfill
Authors: Wang Cheng‐Der
Published: February 2007

This work presents analytical solutions for determining lateral force (force per unit length) and centroid location caused by horizontal and vertical surcharge surface loads acting on a cross‐anisotropic backfill. The surcharge loading types are point load, line load, uniform strip load, upward linear‐varying strip load, upward nonlinear‐varying strip load, downward linear‐varying strip load, and downward nonlinear‐varying strip load. The planes of cross‐anisotropy are assumed parallel to the backfill ground surface. The proposed solutions, derived by integrating the lateral stress solutions (Int. J. Numer. Anal. Meth. Geomech. 2005; 29:1341–1361), do not exist in literature. Clearly, the type and degree of material anisotropy,
loading distance from the retaining wall, and loading types markedly impact the proposed solutions. Two examples are utilized to illustrate the type and degree of soil anisotropy, and the loading types on the lateral force and centroid location in the isotropic/cross‐anisotropic backfills generated by the horizontal and vertical uniform, upward linear‐varying and upward nonlinear‐varying strip loads. The parametric study results demonstrate that the lateral force and centroid location accounting for soil anisotropy, loading distance from the retaining wall, dimension of the loading strip, and loading directions and types differ significantly from those estimated using existing isotropic solutions. The derived solutions can be added to other lateral pressures, such as earth pressure or water pressure, required for stability and structural analysis of a retaining wall. Additionally, they can simulate realistically actual surcharge loading problems in geotechnical engineering when backfill materials are cross‐anisotropic. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Whole cell profiling and identification of galectin‐1 as a potential marker of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Dihazi Hassan , Müller Claudia , Asif Abdul R. , Flad Thomas , Elmaouhoub Abderrahim , Müller Gerhard A.
Published: February 2007

For most cancers, the patient's prognosis improves dramatically if the disease is detected at an early stage. Although advancements in imaging technology have improved early detection, many cancers remain undetected until it is too late for curative intervention. We have established, for the first time, expression difference mapping analysis of whole cell proteins from renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines using ProteinChip technology. A total of 20 different RCC cell lines were cultured in vitro directly on ProteinChip arrays for 24 h. Direct MS analysis of proteins from the attached cells showed identical protein profiles by all analysed RCC lines. Comparative on‐chip analysis of isolated malignant cells from native tumour specimens revealed protein patterns highly similar to those from the continuous RCC lines. However, cultured primary cortex cells showed specific protein differences. Differential protein profiling of isolated cytosolic and enriched membrane fractions from the RCC lines revealed that the protein pattern of the membrane proteins included or were identical to those of the entire cells. Proteomics analysis of the chip‐binding membrane fractions allowed the identification of three forms of galectin‐1 as potential RCC marker. ProteinChip analysis with a bound‐specific antibody certified that galectin‐1 could be an RCC marker. Immunostaining methods confirmed the overexpression of galectin‐1 in renal carcinoma in comparison to healthy tissue.
Altered proteins of the anterior cingulate cortex white matter proteome in schizophrenia
Authors: Clark Danielle , Dedova Irina , Cordwell Stuart , Matsumoto Izuru
Published: February 2007

Alterations in the circuitry between and within different brain regions including the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is implicated in the neuropathology of schizophrenia. The involvement of white matter in schizophrenia is becoming increasingly apparent with reports of structural, morphological and genetic alterations occurring in the disease. The 2‐DE was employed to reveal significantly altered proteins within the ACC white matter proteome in a schizophrenia cohort (n = 10) relative to controls (n= 10). From the 423 matched spots between the two groups, the levels of 32 protein spots were altered in the schizophrenia ACC white matter. Of these, 30 spots were identified using MS. The majority of the altered proteins in schizophrenia function in metabolism, the cytoskeleton, and the synapse. These proteomic data suggest that the brain circuitry involving the ACC white matter tracts is altered in schizophrenia, possibly caused by depleted glucose metabolism and altered structural components of this region.
Optical spin orientation in (110) GaAs quantum wells at room temperature
Authors: Lombez L. , Lagarde D. , Renucci P. , Amand T. , Marie X. , Liu B. L. , Wang W. X. , Xue Q. K. , Chen D. M.
Published: February 2007

We used time‐resolved optical orientation experiments to study the spin dynamics in (110) oriented GaAs/Al0.4GaAs quantum wells at room temperature. We observe a clear dependence of the initial spin polarisation P(0) and of the polarisation decay time τs as a function of the excitation wavelength and power. As high values as P(0) ∼ 80% and τs ∼ 1.6 ns have been observed when exciting quasi‐resonantly with the heavy‐hole transition. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Die neue Berliner Brücke in Halle – Erste deutsche Schrägseilbrücke in Verbundbauweise
Authors: Brixner Stefan , Mündecke Michael , Gunkel Frank
Published: February 2007

Die neue Berliner Brücke im Zentrum der Händel ‐Stadt Halle an der Saale ist eine Schrägseilbrücke mit A‐Pylon und mit einem Versteifungsträger in Verbundbauweise. Der Versteifungsträger mit dem Fahrbahndeck ist im Grundriß gekrümmt, der Pylon steht schräg zur Brückenachse. Die Verkehrsbelastung besteht aus Individualstraßen‐ und Straßenbahnverkehr, außerdem ist Schwerverkehr zu berücksichtigen. Die Brücke überführt die Berliner Straße über eine vielgleisige Anlage der Deutschen Bahn AG nördlich des Hauptbahnhofes, die teilweise elektrifiziert ist. Trotz der schwierigen Randbedingungen für den Entwurf der Brücke konnte eine Reihe von Innovationen, bei gleichzeitiger Optimierung der Bau‐ und Unterhaltungskosten und einem dem Standort und städtebaulichen Anspruch gerecht werdenden Design, umgesetzt werden.
3D‐Tragwerkssimulationen zur Erfassung der aerodynamischen Beanspruchungen bei der Planung von Brückenstrukturen
Authors: Eusani Renato , Zahlten Wolfhard
Published: February 2007

Durch den Einsatz innovativer Materialien ist ein Trend hin zu immer leichteren und schlankeren Konstruktionen zu beobachten. Insbesondere bei Schrägseil‐ und Hängebrücken, jedoch auch bei Balkenbrücken wurden verstärkt Schwingungsanfälligkeiten beobachtet. Als Ursache für die Anregung von Schwingungen treten außer personen‐ bzw. verkehrsinduzierten Schwingungen vorwiegend windinduzierte Schwingungen auf. Außer lokalen Schwingungen von Seilen ist das Schwingungsverhalten des Überbaus von besonderem Interesse. Im Rahmen dieses Aufsatzes wird ein Überblick über die zur Zeit in der Praxis verwendeten Untersuchungsansätze gegeben. Dazu werden Lastmodelle auf Basis einer zweidimensionalen Betrachtung der Querschnittsumströmung und deren numerische Umsetzung in 3D‐Tragwerkssimulationen präsentiert. Die versuchstechnische Ermittlung der stationären und instationären Querschnittsparameter wird kurz vorgestellt. Anhand von vier ausgewählten Beispielen wird die praktische Anwendung innerhalb der Entwurfs‐ und Ausführungsplanung exemplarisch erläutert.
Supercritical fluid chromatographic analysis of the propoxylated glycerol esters of oleic acid
Authors: Lu Xujin J. , Myers Michelle R. , Artz William E.
Published: February 2007

Capillary supercritical fluid chromatographic methods were developed for the separation and quantitation of oligomers of propoxylated glycerols and fatty acid‐esterified propoxylated glycerols. Samples containing mole ratios (propylene oxide to glycerol) of 5, 8 and 14 were chromatographed. Separations depended primarily upon the molecular weight or the number of the propylene oxide units. The oligomer distributions in the propoxylated glycerol and the oleic acid‐esterified propoxylated glycerol samples were determined.
Optimal conditions for fractionation of rapeseed lecithin with alcohols
Authors: Sosada Marian
Published: February 2007

Deoiled rapeseed lecithin was fractionated with ethanol, and optimum conditions have been determined to improve purified lecithin yield and phosphatidylcholine (PC) enrichment. The effect of extraction time, solvent volume, ethanol concentration and temperature on the yield and the PC enrichment have been described in the form of regression equations. A full factorial experiment method and a second‐order orthogonal design were used in the study. The regression equations were calculated for the maximum value of the response functions optimized by an electronic data processing method, and the results (yield and PC enrichment calculated from regression equations) were compared with those obtained in control experiments. The use of calculated optimal parameters in the fractionation process led to 81–96% and 58% increments in yield and PC enrichment, respectively.
Solvent effects on the products of soybean oil extraction
Authors: Beckel A. C. , Belter P. A. , Smith A. K.
Published: February 2007

Ethanol, isopropanol, isobutanol, ethylene dichloride, trichloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride, and hexane (b.p. range 30° to 60°C.) were used as solvents for the extraction of soybean oil and the comparative effect of the solvent on the color and other properties of the oil, meal, and isolated protein was measured. Ethanol extraction gave the best results with respect to the color of oil, meal, and protein, and it also served as a debittering agent for the soybean meal.
Studies on olive oil standardization
Authors: Kaloyereas Socrates A.
Published: February 2007

Experiments were conducted in the Research Experiment Station for Agricultural Technology, Athens, Greece, to study the effect of climatic conditions, state of maturity, infection by olive fly, and the effect of various fertilizers upon the quality of olive oil.

Olive oil produced in localities where the temperature is low during the maturity period has more unsaturated fatty acids than oil produced in localities with higher temperatures. With the advance of maturity the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids increased. Infection by olive fly had no appreciable effect upon the relative proportion of saturated fatty acids.

For studying of the effect of fertilizers the injection method was used. Nitrogen fertilizers injected into the branches gave considerable increase in the volume of fruit, its protein content, and the total amount of oil produced per acre.
Cellular ultrastructure of jojoba seed
Authors: Muller L. L. , Hensarling T. P. , Jacks T. J.
Published: February 2007

Jojoba seed, examined with an electron microscope, appeared ultrastructurally similar to other oilseeds, even though liquid wax, rather than triglyceride, comprises the reserve lipid of the seed. This observation indicates that liquid wax and triglyceride are stored in the same manner‐in spherosomes‐within seeds.
Some challenges for the rapeseed crusher
Authors: Beach D. H. C.
Published: February 2007

Processing of rapeseed has challenged the processor in ways which differed substantially from those that faced the soybean crusher. The newer varieties of rapeseed pose new processing challenges which will be met and surmounted.
Potential synthetic lubricants: Diol ester of C18‐saturated cyclic acids
Authors: Friedrich J. P. , Gast L. E.
Published: February 2007

Monoalkyl esters of linseed‐oil‐derived C18‐saturated cyclic acids (HCal), described in earlier work, showed promise as lubricant base stocks for turbine aircraft as set forth in the military specification MIL‐L‐7808E. These esters, however, did not exhibit the increased oxidative stability and higher viscosity required by the more recent specification MIL‐L‐23699.

Six diol esters of HCal have now been prepared. Both hindered and unhindered dihydric alcohols were used, including ethylene glycol, 1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol, 1,4‐benzenedimethanol, 2,3‐dimethyl‐1,3‐propanediol and 2,2,4,4‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐cyclobutanediol (I). The viscosities of these esters at 210F ranged from 10.1 to 19.6 centistokes and the pour points, from ‐35 to ‐62F. Oxidative stabilities at 400F were determined with 0.5% each of phenyl‐a‐napthylamine (PANA) andp,p'‐dioctyldiphenylamine as inhibitors. The esters of the unhindered diols had poor stability, whereas esters of the hindered diols, in particular I, exhibited excellent resistance to the formation of acidic decomposition products and sludge. Although the HCal ester of I by itself is too viscous to meet specification MIL‐L‐23699, its ASTM slope (0.650) is excellent. Blends of this material with less viscous hindered esters, commercially available, may find application as lubricants for high‐performance turbine engines used in various aircraft.
Agricultural research service, meat inspection division chemical requirements as they apply to the fat and oil industry
Authors: Bennett O. L.
Published: February 2007

This paper cites portions of the Meat Inspection Act giving authority for the control of chemicals in meat and meat food products. It defines the extent of coverage, procedures for determining compilance, criteria used in evaluating safety or suitability of chemicals used in the treatment of fats, fat derivatives or other meat food products. It identifies certain requirements covering the use of detergents, paints, adhesives, packaging materials and other miscellaneous substances used in the packing plant. It mentions the system of checking employed by field laboratories and in‐plant inspectors. It notes the contact points with representatives of the Division and lists the publication containing pertinent regulations.
Preparation of malonaldehyde acetals by ozonolysis of polyunsaturated fatty esters
Authors: Fitton P. , Pryde E. H. , Cowan J. C.
Published: February 2007

Malonaldehyde acetals were prepared in more than a 70% yield by ozonolysis of the methyl esters of linseed oil, safflower oil and linoleic acid, and by ozonolysis of linseed oil alone. Malonaldehyde tetramethyl acetal could not be separated readily from caproaldehyde dimethyl acetal by fractional distillation. However, conversion of the methyl acetals to propylene glycol acetals resulted in sufficient spread in boiling points for their effective separation by distillation.
Gas‐liquid chromatographic separation of ethylene oxide adducts of fatty alcohols via their acetate esters
Authors: Gildenberg L. , Trowbridge J. R.
Published: February 2007

Gas‐liquid chromatography (GLC) of ethylene oxide adducts of fatty alcohols is carried out after conversion of the alcohols to aetate esters. This conversion permits detection of higher mol wt compounds. Separate peaks for adducts with up to 13 units of ethylene oxide are obtained for a product derived from dodecyl alcohol. The procedure is used to follow the course of a molecular distillation of an adduct prepared from hexadecyl alcohol and an example is also shown for an adduct derived from a mixture of dodecyl and tetradecyl alcohols.
Effect of irrigation on jojoba production under arid chaco conditions: II—Seed yields and wax quality
Authors: Ayerza (h) Ricardo
Published: February 2007

In the phytogeographic region of the Arid Chaco, in Las Oscuras, Province of Cordoba, Argentina, the production of jojoba seed under four levels of irrigation was evaluated during two years. The plants used were established by direct sowing with seeds from the Tucson Mountains, outside Tucson, Arizona, four years before the test started. The plants were not irrigated until the test began. The treatments were: T1=0; T2=300; T3=600; and T4=900 mm/ha/year, in twelve equal irrigations, applied every 30 d. The experimental design used was randomized complete blocks with two replications (30 plants in each replication). Each of the variables was compared by analysis of variance, and means were subjected to Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test. For the conditions of this test, the results obtained suggest that: (i) seed production of jojoba plants increased significantly with high levels of water applied monthly (treatments T3=600 mm and T4=900 mm); (ii) The most efficient irrigation treatment was T3; (iii) Jojoba plants respond to high levels of irrigation (T4=900 mm) and produce the heaviest seeds under these conditions; (iv) an increase in water does not produce significant differences in fatty acid content, but it may change from year to year; and (v) increased jojoba yields can be achieved on dry‐farm plantations by applying irrigation.
Distinction between enzymically and chemically catalyzed interesterification
Authors: Roy S. Sil , Bhattacharyya D. K.
Published: February 2007

The 1,3‐specific lipase‐catalyzed interesterified fats were distinguished from chemically catalyzed products by the fatty acids in the 2‐position. The fatty acid contents in the 2‐position of the 1,3‐lipase‐catalyzed and the original triglycerides were similar but different from that of chemically interesterified fat. Also, the saturated‐to‐unsaturated fatty acid ratio in the 2‐monoglycerides was lower for the 1,3‐specific lipase‐catalyzed interesterified fats than for the corresponding chemical products.
Dose‐Dependent Effects of Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation on Blood Lipids in Statin‐Treated Hyperlipidaemic Subjects
Authors: Meyer Barbara J. , Hammervold Tone , Rustan Arild Chr. , Howe Peter R. C.
Published: February 2007

The objective of the study was to evaluate potential benefits of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) rich fish oil supplementation as an adjunct to statin therapy for hyperlipidaemia. A total of 45 hyperlipidaemic patients on stable statin therapy with persistent elevation of plasma triglycerides (averaging 2.2 mmol/L) were randomised to take 4 g/day (n = 15) or 8 g/day (n = 15) of tuna oil or olive oil (placebo, n = 15) for 6 months. Plasma lipids, blood pressure and arterial compliance were assessed initially and after 3 and 6 months in 40 subjects who completed the trial. Plasma triglycerides were reduced 27% by 8 g/day DHA‐rich fish oil (P < 0.05) but not by 4 g/day when compared with the placebo and this reduction was achieved by 3 months and was sustained at 6 months. Even though total cholesterol was already well controlled by the statin treatment (mean initial level 4.5 mmol/L), there was a further dose‐dependent reduction with fish oil supplementation (r = −0.344, P < 0.05). The extent of total cholesterol reduction correlated (r = −0.44) with the initial total cholesterol levels (P < 0.005). In the subset with initial plasma cholesterol above 3.8 mmol/L, plasma very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), intermediate‐density lipoprotein (IDL) and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) were isolated and assayed for cholesterol and apolipoprotein B (apoB) at the commencement of the trial and at 3 months of intervention. Fish oil tended to lower cholesterol and apoB in VLDL and raise both in LDL. There were no changes in IDL cholesterol, IDL apoB and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. The results demonstrate that DHA‐rich fish oil supplementation (2.16 g DHA/day) can improve plasma lipids in a dose‐dependent manner in patients taking statins and these changes were achieved by 3 months. Fish oil in addition to statin therapy may be preferable to drug combinations for the treatment of combined hyperlipidaemia.
Poverty and household food security of black South African farm workers: the legacy of social inequalities
Authors: Kruger A , Lemke S , Phometsi Mars , van't Riet H , Pienaar AE , Kotze G
Published: February 2007

Objective

To assess socio-economic indicators, nutritional status and living conditions of farm workers and their families, with the purpose to develop research and intervention programmes aimed at enhancing nutritional status and quality of life.

Design and setting

Three farm schools in two districts of the North-West Province and farming communities were selected. Anthropometrical measurements, structured face-to-face questionnaires and focus group discussions were carried out in 2002 and 2003 by a multidisciplinary research team.

Results

Access to electricity, water and sanitation, as well as monthly food rations or subsidies, vary and depend on farm owners. The majority of adults have education below or up to grade four, farm schools provide only up to grade seven. Distance to farm schools and intra-household issues hamper children's attendance and performance at school. Household food security is compromised due to a lack of financial resources, infrastructure and also household resource allocation. This impacts negatively especially on children, with half of them being underweight, stunted or wasted. Employment is usually linked to men, while most women have access to casual jobs only. Insecurity of residence and the perceived disempowered position towards farm owners add to feelings of hopelessness and stress.

Conclusions and recommendations

This study highlights destitute living conditions of farm worker families. Apart from structural and financial constraints, paternalistic structures of the past might also hamper development. Based on these findings, follow-up research projects and in-depth investigations into underlying social issues with regard to nutrition insecurity and livelihoods of farm workers were initiated.
Comparison of the World Health Organization (WHO) Child Growth Standards and the National Center for Health Statistics/WHO international growth reference: implications for child health programmes
Authors: de Onis Mercedes , Onyango Adelheid W , Borghi Elaine , Garza Cutberto , Yang Hong ,   WHO Multicentre Growth Reference Study Group
Published: February 2007

Objectives

To compare growth patterns and estimates of malnutrition based on the World Health Organization (WHO) Child Growth Standards (‘the WHO standards’) and the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS)/WHO international growth reference (‘the NCHS reference’), and discuss implications for child health programmes.

Design

Secondary analysis of longitudinal data to compare growth patterns (birth to 12 months) and data from two cross-sectional surveys to compare estimates of malnutrition among under-fives.

Settings

Bangladesh, Dominican Republic and a pooled sample of infants from North America and Northern Europe.

Subjects

Respectively 4787, 10 381 and 226 infants and children.

Results

Healthy breast-fed infants tracked along the WHO standard's weight-for-age meanZ-score while appearing to falter on the NCHS reference from 2 months onwards. Underweight rates increased during the first six months and thereafter decreased when based on the WHO standards. For all age groups stunting rates were higher according to the WHO standards. Wasting and severe wasting were substantially higher during the first half of infancy. Thereafter, the prevalence of severe wasting continued to be 1.5 to 2.5 times that of the NCHS reference. The increase in overweight rates based on the WHO standards varied by age group, with an overall relative increase of 34%.

Conclusions

The WHO standards provide a better tool to monitor the rapid and changing rate of growth in early infancy. Their adoption will have important implications for child health with respect to the assessment of lactation performance and the adequacy of infant feeding. Population estimates of malnutrition will vary by age, growth indicator and the nutritional status of index populations.
Halsschmerzen und Fieber nach Peginterferon alpha-2a
Authors: Moser  , Furrer  , Ruggieri
Published: February 2007

Eine 39-jährige Frau wurde wegen eines Melanoms mit Interferon behandelt. Wegen Nebenwirkungen wurde Interferon alpha-2a (Roferon-A®) im Verlaufe durch Peginterferon alpha-2a (Pegasys®) ersetzt. Zwei Tage nach der ersten Injektion von Peginterferon alpha-2a wurde die Patientin mit Fieber sowie einem schmerzhaft geschwollenen Hals auf der Notfallstation vorstellig. In der klinischen Untersuchung zeigte die reduzierte und febrile (38.8 °C) Patientin eine Tachykardie von 110/min. Im Labor ergaben sich folgende Befunde: BSR 85 mm/h, CRP 143 mg/l, Leukozyten 11.4×109/l, TSH 0.10 mU/l (0.27–4.20 mU/l), fT4 24.2 pmol/l (12–22 pmol/l), fT3 5.5 pmol/l (2.8–7.1), ANA 1:80, Anti-Thyreoglobulin Antikörper 212 IE/ml (< 100), Thyreoglobulin 442 µg/l, normale Anti-TPO Antikörper sowie negative TRAK. Ultrasonographisch fand sich eine vergrösserte, fokal hypoechogene Schilddrüse.In der Annahme einer Interferon-induzierten Thyreoiditis de Quervain haben wir eine Therapie mit NSAR und nachfolgend 20 mg Prednison eingeleitet. Einige Tage später waren die Symptome prompt regredient. Der Zusammenhang zwischen akuter Thyreoiditis und Interferon alpha-2a ist bekannt. Unser Fall zeigt, dass auch Peginterferon alpha-2a eine akute Entzündung der Schilddrüse auslösen kann (Typ De Quervain).
Klinische Kinderneuropsychologie
Authors: Petermann Franz , Lepach Anja C.
Published: February 2007

Zusammenfassung. Die Kinderneuropsychologie hat durch Erkenntnisse von bildgebenden Verfahren und die Entwicklung von diagnostischen Testverfahren an Bedeutung gewonnen und Modelle für neue therapeutische Ansätze geliefert. Aufgrund der Vielfalt der Anwendungsmöglichkeiten in der Neuropädiatrie, Neurologie und Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie ergeben sich viele, zum Teil auch widersprüchliche Fragestellungen, die einen weiteren Forschungsbedarf verdeutlichen. Weg vom reinen Hirnleistungstraining und hin zu einer multimodalen Neuropsychotherapie entsteht die Notwendigkeit, der Neuropsychologie ein neues Profil zu geben. Ein wesentlicher Beitrag wird zukünftig in der Erhebung von Klassifikationsmerkmalen für neuropsychologische Störungsbilder die bisher nicht oder nur unzureichend im ICD-10 vertreten sind sowie in der Entwicklung und Evaluierung neuropsychologischer Therapieprogramme liegen.
Schlaganfälle im Kindes- und Jugendalter
Authors: Daseking Monika , Petermann Franz
Published: February 2007

Zusammenfassung. Schlaganfälle im Kindes- und Jugendalter gehören zu den seltenen Erkrankungen des Kindesalters. Die neurologischen Beeinträchtigungen verursachen sehr unterschiedliche neuropsychologische Defizite. Art und das Ausmaß der kognitiven Beeinträchtigungen hängen wesentlich vom Alter der Kinder zum Zeitpunkt des Schlaganfalls und von der Lokalisation der Schädigung ab. Eine neuropsychologisch orientierte Diagnostik kann wertvolle Ansatzpunkte zur Therapie der kognitiven Defizite sowie der schulbezogenen Lernstörungen liefern. Dabei spielen Aufmerksamkeits- und Gedächtnisstörungen auch bei der Beurteilung der allgemeinen Intelligenz von Kindern mit einem Schlaganfall eine zentrale Rolle. Therapeutische Bemühungen erfordern aufgrund der Vielschichtigkeit von Beeinträchtigungen nach einem Schlaganfall im Kindes- und Jugendalter einen multidisziplinären Ansatz.
Flexibel versus charakterstark
Authors: Emrich Martin , Diehl Michael
Published: February 2007

Zusammenfassung. Erstmals wurden in einer experimentellen Untersuchung 152 Teilnehmende an einem Assessment Center instruiert, sich flexibel, d. h. situationsangemessen oder sich charakterstark, d. h. prinzipientreu zu verhalten. In einer Kontrollbedingung wurde keine solche Instruktion gegeben. Bei allen Teilnehmenden wurde zusätzlich das dispositionelle Self-Monitoring, d. h. die persönlichkeitsbedingte Tendenz zu flexiblem bzw. charakterstarkem Verhalten gemessen. Es wurde der Frage nachgegangen, inwieweit das situative und dispositionelle Self-Monitoring sich auf die Leistung der Teilnehmenden in den Übungen des Assessment Center auswirkt. Weiterhin wurde überprüft, welche Einflüsse Instruktion und Disposition auf die Konstruktvalidität der Anforderungsdimensionen des Assessment Center haben. Während ein signifikanter Zusammenhang zwischen dispositionellem Self-Monitoring und Assessment Center-Gesamtleistung auftrat (r = .24; p < .05), gab es keinen Leistungsunterschied zwischen den Instruktionen Flexibilität, Charakterstärke sowie der Kontrollbedingung. Die Flexibilitätsinstruktion führte jedoch zu einer deutlich geringeren konvergenten Validität der vier Beobachtungsdimensionen. Auf der Grundlage der Diskussion der empirischen Befunde werden praktische Implikationen für die Verwendung von Instruktionen für Assessment Center aufgezeigt.
First measurements of neutral wind and turbulence in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere over Taiwan with a chemical release experiment
Authors: Chu Y. H. , Su C. L. , Larsen M. F. , Chao C. K.
Published: February 2007

Neutral winds and turbulence structure in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere were measured with a sounding rocket chemical release experiment carried out in Taiwan. Trimethyl aluminum (TMA) was used as a tracer of the drift of the background atmosphere. The results show that the measured neutral wind had a maximum speed of 154 m/s at a height around 105 km. The wind vectors were found to rotate clockwise with height in the altitude range from about 98 to 121 km. On the basis of the hodograph analysis of the measured neutral wind vectors, an upward propagating inertio‐gravity wave with intrinsic period of 11.2 hours and vertical wavelength of 19.5 km was believed to be primarily responsible for the height variations of the neutral wind and the Richardson number. Large vertical wind shears were observed near 100 km and 106 km. Turbulent structures were observed in much of the trail below 110 km, but there were enhanced structures in the altitude range between the two large shears, i.e., at and near the altitude of the maximum wind speed. Comparing the positions of the turbulent features with expected atmospheric stability zones induced by an upward propagating gravity wave indicates that the turbulence structures were primarily located within the wave‐induced convectively unstable zone. The structures are therefore interpreted as counterrotating vortices within the convective instability zone of a breaking gravity wave. Moreover, the relation between the horizontal separations λ (about 1.8 km) of the turbulent structures and the vertical extent h (about 0.7 and 1.5 km) of the wind shear zones with Richardson numbers less than 0.25 did not conform to the predicted λ/h ratio of a factor of approximately 8 predicted by simple linear Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability theory for the primary billow structures associated with the instability. These results suggest that the observed structures were not the primary billows but were more likely associated with a secondary instability, such as the counterrotating vortices that develop later in the evolution of the instability. In general, the observations reported here support the interpretation that the turbulence evident in the trail was very likely generated in the convectively unstable zone induced by the inertio‐gravity wave propagating through the region with large temperature gradients −32 K/km produced by wave breaking processes.
Self-assembled spontaneous structures induced by a pulsed laser on a surface of azobenzene polymer film
Authors: Tsutsumi Naoto , Fujihara Arata
Published: February 2007

The paper presents the self-assembled regularly patterned unique structures induced by the irradiation of pulsed laser beam on a surface of azobenzene polymer film. Self-assembled patterns depend on the polarization of laser beam. Linearly polarized beam gave rise to the ripple structures whose grating vector is perpendicular to the polarization of laser beam. Pitch of the ripple structures (Λ) was related to the wavelength (λ) of irradiated laser beam; Λ=λ∕n. Λ=λ∕1.05 for λ=266 and 355nm and Λ=λ∕1.3 for λ=420–540nm were obtained. These results implied that the ripple structures were produced by the interference of the incident beam with the optical wave scattered in a surface (waveguide mode light). The difference of n value is explained by the wavelength dispersion of refractive indices in the azobenzene polymeric matrix. Circularly polarized beam gave rise to the concentric wavelike structure. Pitch of wavelike structure was analyzed using two dimensional Fourier transform imaging techniques. Pitch of wavelike structure increases with increasing the number of laser shots. Furthermore, with increasing irradiation time, well-defined honeycomblike structure was also developed.
Ericksen number and Deborah number cascade predictions of a model for liquid crystalline polymers for simple shear flow
Authors: Klein D. Harley , Leal L. Gary , García-Cervera Carlos J. , Ceniceros Hector D.
Published: February 2007

We consider the behavior of the Doi-Marrucci-Greco (DMG) model for nematic liquid crystalline polymers in planar shear flow. We found the DMG model to exhibit dynamics in both qualitative and quantitative agreement with experimental observations reported by Larson and Mead [Liq. Cryst. 15, 151 (1993)] for the Ericksen number and Deborah number cascades. For increasing shear rates within the Ericksen number cascade, the DMG model displays three distinct regimes: stable simple shear, stable roll cells, and irregular structure accompanied by disclination formation. In accordance with experimental observations, the model predicts both ±1 and ±1∕2 disclinations. Although ±1 defects form via the ridge-splitting mechanism first identified by Feng, Tao, and Leal [J. Fluid Mech. 449, 179 (2001)], a new mechanism is identified for the formation of ±1∕2 defects. Within the Deborah number cascade, with increasing Deborah number, the DMG model exhibits a streamwise banded texture, in the absence of disclinations and roll cells, followed by a monodomain wherein the mean orientation lies within the shear plane throughout the domain.