bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrolysis and biodegradation studies of surface‐active esters
Authors: Stjerndahl Maria , van Ginkel Cornelis G. , Holmberg Krister
Published: November 2006

Base‐catalyzed hydrolysis, biodegradation, and enzyme‐catalyzed hydrolysis of a series of four monoesters of tetra(ethylene glycol) have been investigated. The surfactants varied in substitution on the α‐carbon of the acyl chain, from no substitution, to 2‐methyl, to 2‐ethyl, and on to 2,2‐dimethyl. All surfactants were based on C8‐acids except the methyl‐substituted, which was based on a C7‐acid. The hydrolysis was investigated using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. The surfactants showed a pronounced difference in stability with respect to type of substitution in the vicinity of the ester bond. In alka‐line hydrolysis the most significant difference in reactivity lay between the surfactant with an ethyl group and the surfactant with a methyl group in the α‐position of the acyl chain. However, in the biodegradation studies these surfactants broke down at almost exactly the same rate as the nonsubstituted surfactant. In the biodegradation test, the disubstituted surfactant deviated considerably. Two lipases, from Mucor miehei (MML) and Candida antarctica B (CALB), were used in the enzyme‐catalyzed hydrolysis. The surfactant with no substitution was found to hydrolyze much faster than the other surfactants, and the hydrolytic activity of MML, but not CALB, increased in the presence of surfactant micelles.
Mechanism of antifoam behavior of solutions of nonionic surfactants above the cloud point
Authors: Chaisalee Ratchadaporn , Soontravanich Sukkhwan , Yanumet Nantaya , Scamehorn John F.
Published: November 2006

Aqueous solutions of nonionic surfactants exhibit low foaming above their cloud point, a temperature above which the homogeneous solutions separates into two phases: a dilute phase containing a low surfactant concentration and coacervate phase containing a very high surfactant concentration (e.g., 20 wt% surfactant). In this work, foam formation was measured for the dilute phase, the coacervate, and the mixed solution using the Ross‐Miles method for nonylphenol polyethoxylates with 8, 9, or 10 ethylene oxide moieties per molecule. The dilute phase showed no antifoam effect above the cloud point if the coacervate phase was not present, and the coacervate phase foamed little in the absence of the dilute phase. The coacervate phase acts as an oil droplet antifoam to the dilute phase. From surface and interfacial tension data, entering, spreading, and bridging coefficients for this system make it appear probable that the coacervate phase is forming bridges across the film lamellae of the dilute‐phase foam and acting to suppress foam formation through the bridging mechanism.
Aggregation properties of amphiphilic poly(ethylene oxide)‐poly(propylene oxide)‐poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymer studied by cyclic voltammetry
Authors: Ding Yuanhua , Wang Ying , Guo Rong
Published: November 2006

The cyclic voltammetric behaviors at a platinum electrode of an amphiphilic block copolymer [poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(propylene oxide)‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide) (F127)] in aqueous solutions were investigated. The mechanism of the electrochemical reaction of F127 at a platinum electrode was deduced. The diffusion coefficients of different‐shaped aggregates formed by F127 were determined on this basis. The first and second critical micelle concentrations, corresponding to the formation of spherical micelles and the transition of the spherical to rod‐like micelles, were 3.72×10−4 mol·L−1 and 1.49×10−3 mol·L−1, respectively, which could be confirmed by the fluorescent anisotropy of pyrene in the F127 aggregates and the morphology of F127 micelles observed by freeze‐fracture transmission electron microscopy.
Effect of temperature on the biodegradation of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate and alcohol ethoxylate
Authors: Prats Daniel , López Carmen , Vallejo Diana , Varó Pedro , León Víctor M.
Published: November 2006

The effect of temperature on the biodegradation of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) and alcohol ethoxylate (AE) was evaluated using method OECD 303 A, Confirmatory test (Husmann units). The experiments were performed using an initial surfactant concentration of 10 mg/L and working temperatures of 25, 15, and 9°C, keeping the biodegradation units inside a thermostatic chamber. In all cases, the removal of both surfactants tested, LAS and AE, was higher than 90%, regardless of the temperature used in the test. We observed that longer acclimation periods were needed by the microorganisms at lower temperatures.
Comparison of the effects of dietary α‐linolenic, stearidonic, and eicosapentaenoic acids on production of inflammatory mediators in mice
Authors: Ishihara Kenji , Komatsu Wataru , Saito Hiroaki , Shinohara Kazuki
Published: November 2006

The effects of dietary stearidonic acid (18∶4n−3) on inflammatory mediator release in whole blood and splenocytes was investigated in Balb/c mice, and the effects were compared with those of two other n−3 PUFA: α‐linolenic acid (18∶3n−3) and EPA (20∶5n−3). TAG mixtures containing 10% of 18∶4n−3, 18∶3n−3, or 20∶5n−3 as the respective sole n−3 PUFA were enzymatically synthesized. Diets containing synthesized TAG mixtures were fed to Balb/c mice for 3 wk. The release of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were measured in whole blood and splenocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. In whole blood, the production of INF was suppressed by all dietary n−3 PUFA (18∶3n−3, 18∶4n−3, and 20∶5n−3) as compared with the control diet, which contained TAG prepared from safflower oil. PGE2 production was not significantly changed. Differences among the n−3 PUFA (18∶3n−3), 18∶4n−3, and 20∶5n−3) were not observed. In splenocytes, PGE2 production was suppressed by dietary n−3 PUFA, but TNF production was not. GC analysis of plasma and splenocyte FA profiles showed an increase in the levels of 20∶4n−3, 20∶5n−3, and 22∶6n−3 in mice fed the diet containing 18∶4n−3.
Synthesis of the conjugated trienes 5E,7E,9E,14Z,17Z‐eicosapentaenoic acid and 5Z,7E,9E,14Z,17Z‐eicosapentaenoic acid, and their induction of apoptosis in DLD‐1 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Tsuzuki Tsuyoshi , Tanaka Kazumi , Kuwahara Shigefumi , Miyazawa Teruo
Published: November 2006

During the course of our recent study on the antitumor effect of conjugated eicosapentaenoic acids (CEPA), we found that acid mixtures prepared by treating EPA with KOH in ethylene glycol induced potent apoptotic cell death in human tumor cells via membrane phospholipid peroxidation. Interestingly, the KOH‐treated CEPA mixtures were more cytotoxic than EPA and CLA and had no effect on normal human fibroblast cells. To identify the specific cytotoxic FA in the CEPA mixture, we synthesized possible candidates for the active species. Here, we report the synthesis of (5E,7E,9E,14Z,17Z)‐5,7,9,14,17‐eicosapentaenoic acid (E‐CEPA) and its 5‐(Z) isomer (Z‐CEPA), both of which are conjugated trienes that exist naturally in red algae (Ptilota filicina J. Agardh). E‐CEPA and Z‐CEPA were synthesized from methyl 5‐oxopentanoate in six steps, using three types of Wittig reactions as the key steps. Next, we examined the cytotoxicity of E‐CEPA and Z‐CEPA in human tumor cells and confirmed their bioactivity. Both E‐CEPA and Z‐CEPA had a strong cytotoxic reaction in tumor cells, and this effect occurred through induction of apoptosis.
sn‐Position determination of phospholipid‐linked fatty acids derived from erythrocytes by liquid chromatography electrospray ionization ion‐trap mass spectrometry
Authors: Beermann Christopher , Möbius Michael , Winterling Nadine , Schmitt Joachim J. , Boehm Günther
Published: November 2006

The sn‐position of FA in membrane lipids has an influence on the physiological function of cells, is predictive for diseases, and therefore is useful for diagnostics. The current study compares the compositions of acyl chain substituents in the sn‐1 and sn‐2 positions of the glycerol backbones of phospholipids derived from human erythrocytes by using RP‐HPLC coupled with on‐line electrospray ionization ion trap MS. Preferential loss of the acyl group in the sn‐1 position was used to determine the degree of regiospecific preference exhibited by the phospholipid molecules. The identities of the molecular species and the positions of the acyl substituents were identified using product‐ion spectra of major precursor ions selected from the mass spectra averaged across peaks in the total ion chromatogram. Saturated FA were found to be located mainly in the sn‐1 position of the glycerol backbones of erythrocyte phospholipids, whereas PUFA were found primarily in the sn‐2 position. All measured phospholipids revealed palmitic acid (16∶0) at the sn‐1 position. Linoleic acid (18∶2n−6) and arachidonic acid (20∶4n−6) were found to be attached exclusively to the sn‐2 position of the backbone, whereas eicosadienoic (20∶2n−6) and eicosatrienoic acid (20∶3n−9) occurred in both positions of the backbone of PC. Oleic (18∶1n−9), linoleic (18∶2n−6), and octadecatrienoic (18∶3) acids of PE and PS were linked to both positions. Lignoceric acid (24∶1n−9) was found to be strictly localized at the sn‐2 position, whereas nervonic (24∶1n−9) acid of PS was associated with both positions of the backbone. A detailed analysis of the blood cell membrane lipids by MS might be helpful to characterize postprandial kinetics of pharmacological or dietary lipid applications, as well as environmental influences on cell membranes.
Effects of droplet size on the oxidative stability of oil‐in‐water emulsions
Authors: Nakaya Kyoko , Ushio Hideki , Matsukawa Shingo , Shimizu Masataka , Ohshima Toshiaki
Published: November 2006

The effects of droplet size and emulsifiers on oxidative stability of polyunsaturated TAG in oil‐in‐water (o/w) emulsions with droplet sizes of 0.806±0.0690, 3.28±0.0660, or 10.7±0.106 μm (mean ± SD) were investigated. Hydroperoxide contents in the emulsion with a mean droplet size of 0.831 μm were significantly lower than those in the emulsion with a mean droplet size of 12.8 μm for up to 120 h of oxidation time. Residual oxygen contents in the headspace air of the vials containing an o/w emulsion with a mean droplet size of 0.831 μm were lower compared with those of the emulsion with a mean droplet size of 12.8 μm. Hexanal developed from soybean oil TAG o/w emulsions with smaller droplet size showed significantly lower residual oxygen contents than those of the larger droplet size emulsions. Consequently, oxidative stability of TAG in o/w emulsions could be controlled by the size of oil droplet even though the origins of TAG were different. Spin‐spin relaxation time of protons of acyl residues on TAG in o/w emulsions measured by 1H NMR suggested that motional frequency of some acyl residues was shorter in o/w emulsions with a smaller droplet size. The effect of the wedge associated with hydrophobic acyl residues of emulsifiers was proposed as a possible mechanism to explain differences in oxidative stability between o/w emulsions with different droplet sizes.
Relative retention order of all isomers of cis/trans conjugated linoleic acid FAME from the 6,8‐ to 13,15‐positions using silver ion HPLC with two elution systems
Authors: Delmonte Pierluigi , Kataoka Ai , Corl B. A. , Bauman D. E. , Yurawecz Martin P.
Published: November 2006

CLA, defined as one or more octadecadienoic acids (18∶2) with conjugated double bonds, has been reported to be active in a number of bological systems. GC and silver ion HPLC (Ag+‐HPLC) have been the primary techniques for identifying specific CLA isomers in both foods and biological extracts. Recently, GC relative retention times were reported for all c,c, c/t (c,t and t,c), and t,t CLA FAME from the 6,8‐ to the 13,15‐positions in octadecadienoic acid (18∶2). Presented here is the relative retention order of the same CLA FAME using Ag+‐HPLC with two different elution systems. The first elution system, consisting of 0.1% acetonitrile/0.5% diethyl ether (DE)/hexane, has been used previously to monitor CLA composition in foods. Also presented here is the retention order of CLA FAME using 2% acetic acid/hexane elution solvent, which has advantages of more stable retention volumes and a complementary elution order of CLA FAME isomers. The data are reported using retention volumes (RV) adjusted for toluene, an estimator for dead volume, and relative to c9,t11‐18∶2. Measurement of relative RV in the analysis of 88 samples of cow plasma, milk, and rumen fluids using Ag+‐HPLC is also presented here. The % CV ranged from 1.04 to 1.62 for t,t isomers and from 0 to 0.48 for c/t isomers.
Improved HPLC assay for lipid peroxides in human plasma using the internal standard of hydroperoxide
Authors: Hui Shu‐Ping , Murai Tsuyoshi , Yoshimura Teruki , Chiba Hitoshi , Nagasaka Hironori , Kurosawa Takao
Published: November 2006

We have developed a sensitive reversed‐phase chemiluminescence HPLC approach for simultaneous quantitative and qualitative analyses of hydroperoxides of cholesteryl ester and TC in human plasma. Standard hydroperoxides of cholesteryl ester and TG and a novel internal standard (1‐tetradecanyl 3‐octadecenoyloxy‐5β‐cholan‐24‐oate monohydroperoxide) (I.S.) were chemically synthesized and the standard curves confirmed to be linear throughout the calibration range (1–1000 pmol). Within‐day and between‐day CV were less than 7%, and the recoveries were within the range of 84–93%. With sample size minimized to 0.1 mL of plasma for each run, plasma cholesteryl ester hydroperoxide levels were 189±87 nM (mean±SD) in healthy young (22–25 yr old; n=15, male/female=6∶9) and 210 ±69 nM in healthy elderly (39–60 yr old; n=6, male/female= 3∶3). TG hydroperoxide was not detected in healthy subjects. In patients with advanced liver failure (36–67 yr old; n=4, male/female=2∶2), hydroperoxide levels of plasma cholesteryl ester and TG were 11,903±9,553 nM and 3,318±1,590 nM, respectively, indicating an involvement of lipid oxidation. Sensitive and specific monitoring of plasma lipid peroxides using the present chemiluminescence HPLC approach with the synthesized I.S. may help our understanding of chemical and pathophysiological aspects of lipid peroxidation.
Synthesis and biological activity of new lodoacetamide derivatives on mutants of squalene‐hopene cyclase
Authors: Ceruti Maurizio , Balliano Gianni , Rocco Flavio , Jenhart Alexander , Schulz Georg E. , Castelli Francesco , Milla Paola
Published: November 2006

New iodoacetamide derivatives, containing a dodecyl or a squalenyl moiety, were synthesized. The effect of these new thiol‐reacting molecules was studied on two mutants of Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius squalene‐hopene cyclase constructed especially for this purpose. In the quintuple mutant, all five cysteine residues of the enzyme are substituted with serine; in the sextuple mutant, this quintuple substitution is accompanied by the substitution of aspartate D376, located at the enzyme's active site, with a cysteine. N‐Dodecyliodoacetamide had little activity toward either mutant, whereas N‐squalenyliodoacetamide showed a stronger effect on the sextuple than on the quintuple mutant, as expected.
The relationship between the structure of monoalkyl branched saturated triacylglycerols and some physical properties
Authors: Svensson Leif , Hansson Ulf , Gronowitz Salo , Klingstedt Tomas
Published: November 2006

Three different physical properties, the gel point (“solidification point”), the refractive index and the density, were determined and related to the structure of the branched triacylglycerols. A four‐factor central composite face‐centered design was constructed where the four variables were the length of the main chain, the branching position, the length of the side chain, and the number of branched fatty acyl groups attached to the glycerol backbone. Second‐order models were calculated in which the three physical properties were related to the structure. Four additional branched triacylglycerols were analyzed in order to confirm the validity of each model. Contour plots are shown in order to visualize the prediction equations which were obtained.
On the syntheses of triacylglycerols from branched saturated fatty acids
Authors: Gronowitz Salo , Klingstedt Tomas , Munck Magnus , Glans Jan , Svensson Leif , Hansson Ulf
Published: November 2006

A number of triacylglycerols with branched acyl groups were prepared via 1,2‐isopropylidene glycerol for the purpose of studying three different physical properties: gel point, refractive index, and density. The monoacid triacylglycerols were prepared either via the corresponding acids or the acyl chlorides.
Refractory juvenile idiopathic arthritis: using autologous stem cell transplantation as a treatment strategy
Authors: Wulffraat Nico M. , de Kleer Ismé M. , Prakken Berent
Published: November 2006

Cellular immune therapy for severe autoimmune diseases can now be considered when such patients are refractory to conventional treatment. The use of autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) to treat human autoimmune diseases has been initiated following promising results in a variety of animal models. Anecdotal observations have been made of autoimmune disease remission in patients who have undergone allogeneic bone marrow transplantation as a result of coincidental haematological malignancies. The possibility of inducing immunological self-tolerance by ASCT is particularly attractive as a means for treating juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). In this disease, ASCT restores self-tolerance both through a cell-intrinsic mechanism, involving the reprogramming of autoreactive T cells, and through a cell-extrinsic mechanism, involving a renewal of the immune balance between CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells and other T cells. This review describes the clinical results of ASCT performed for this disease and the possible underlying immunological mechanisms.
Solvent configuration-interaction calculations of intermolecular states in molecule-(atom)N clusters: Application to Br2–HeN4
Authors: Felker Peter M.
Published: November 2006

We describe variational calculations of J=0 intermolecular states in Br2–HeN4 clusters. The method employed is analogous to configuration-interaction calculations in electronic-structure work and relies on the ability to express the intermolecular Hamiltonian Ĥv as a sum of one- and two-body terms. A basis set is built up from solutions to the Schrödinger equation in which only the one-body terms of Ĥv are included. These configurations are products of N=1 eigenstates. The matrix of Ĥv in a symmetry-adapted configuration basis is then computed, the two-body terms of Ĥv serving to couple different configurations. This computation involves integrals of dimension five or less. Filter diagonalization is then used to obtain energies and eigenfunctions within a selected energy range. Results on clusters having N=2–5 are reported.
Foundations of a spacetime path formalism for relativistic quantum mechanics
Authors: Seidewitz Ed
Published: November 2006

Quantum field theory is the traditional solution to the problems inherent in melding quantum mechanics with special relativity. However, it has also long been known that an alternative first-quantized formulation can be given for relativistic quantum mechanics, based on the parametrized paths of particles in spacetime. Because time is treated similarly to the three space coordinates, rather than as an evolution parameter, such a spacetime approach has proved particularly useful in the study of quantum gravity and cosmology. This paper shows how a spacetime path formalism can be considered to arise naturally from the fundamental principles of the Born probability rule, superposition, and Poincaré invariance. The resulting formalism can be seen as a foundation for a number of previous parametrized approaches in the literature, relating, in particular, “off-shell” theories to traditional on-shell quantum field theory. It reproduces the results of perturbative quantum field theory for free and interacting particles, but provides intriguing possibilities for a natural program for regularization and renormalization. Further, an important consequence of the formalism is that a clear probabilistic interpretation can be maintained throughout, with a natural reduction to nonrelativistic quantum mechanics.
Stable, three layered organic memory devices from C60 molecules and insulating polymers
Authors: Kanwal Alokik , Chhowalla Manish
Published: November 2006

Memory devices based on C60 fullerene molecules and polystyrene and poly 4-vinyl phenol polymers are described. It is shown that the bistability in the I–V characteristics can be used to perform read-write-erase memory functions. In addition, it is demonstrated that mild thermal annealing enhances the stability of the devices. Specifically, after annealing, the hysteresis in our devices can be preserved up to 85°C in 60% humidity. Furthermore, memory retention tests show that it is possible to preserve a state even after annealing at 85°C in 60% humidity for 30min.
Hans C. Freeman
Authors: Hambley T
Published: November 2006

No Abstract Available.
Metal Complexes of 1,3-Bis(Pyridin-2-yl)pyrazole: Spectral, Magnetic and Structural Studies
Authors: Baker AT , Craig DC , Dong G , Rae AD
Published: November 2006

Bis(ligand)iron(II) and nickel(II) complexes of the asymmetric tridentate ligand 1,3-bis(pyridin-2-yl) pyrazole , L, have been prepared. The iron(II) complex, [FeL2] [PF6]2, is high-spin in the solid state over the temperature range 304-102 K, with a magnetic moment of 5.27 BM at room temperature. The crystal structure of bis (1,3-bis(pyridin-2-yl) pyrazole )iron(II) bis (hexafluorophosphate ) has been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffractometry. The compound crystallized as yellow prisms, with the structure being disordered in the tetragonal space group P421c with Z = 2. Crystal data a = b = 8.785(1) Ǻ, c = 19.804(6) Ǻ. The iron(II) centre is in an N6 environment, where the six donor nitrogen atoms are provided by the two tridentate heterocyclic ligands. The complex cation has an approximately octahedral structure exhibiting tetragonal compression. The observed Fe-N(pyridine) and Fe-N( pyrazole ) distances are 2.308(4) and 2.019(7) Ǻ respectively, with the Fe-N(pyridine) distance being the longest observed to date.
Functional class switch recombination may occur ‘in vivo’ in Waldenström macroglobulinaemia
Authors: Martín‐Jiménez Patricia , García‐Sanz Ramón , Sarasquete María E. , Ocio Enrique , Pérez José J. , González Marcos , San Miguel Jesús F.
Published: November 2006

Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM) malignant cells have been considered incapable of undergoing class switch recombination (CSR). However, we report a WM patient who developed an IgG M‐component 4 years after diagnosis. When the second monoclonal component appeared, reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction showed the presence of pre (Cμ) and postswitch (Cγ) clonotypic isotypes; sequencing of these isotypes demonstrated that both corresponded to the single clone amplified at diagnosis, including the same complementarity‐determining region 3 and somatic mutation pattern. This proves that WM cells can undergo a functional in vivo CSR.
Understanding where we come from: Occupational therapy with urban Indigenous Australians
Authors: Nelson Alison , Allison Heather , Copley Jodie
Published: November 2006

Background: This article outlines issues of service provision for Indigenous families in Brisbane, Australia. It presents guidelines for the development of a socially and culturally appropriate occupational therapy service for urban Indigenous children.

Methods: A mixed methodology was used in two independent components of the research. Part 1 comprised a survey of paediatric occupational therapists in Brisbane. Part 2 consisted of focus groups and interviews with recipients of a newly established occupational therapy service for Indigenous children.

Results: Survey findings indicated that very few Indigenous families access mainstream occupational therapy services. Issues and strategies for developing culturally appropriate practice emerged around five main themes. These were the need to develop effective relationships, develop particular personal qualities, understand the background of both the client and the therapist, both gain and give knowledge, and address logistical issues of service delivery.

Conclusions: Service providers need to understand the social and cultural context of both their Indigenous clients and themselves. Recommendations for future education and practice are provided.
Proton‐pump inhibitor failure/resistance: Proposed mechanisms and therapeutic algorithm
Authors: Cheung Ting K , Wong Benjamin CY
Published: November 2006

Proton‐pump inhibitor (PPI) failure has become more prevalent with the increasing use of PPI as the first‐line agent in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The underlying mechanisms are diverse and may overlap. The commonly available investigations are limited in their capacity in identifying the underlying cause for PPI failure. Multichannel intraluminal impedance with 24‐h pH sensors may be useful to identify non‐acid or duodenogastroesophageal reflux in selected cases. The management strategy for PPI failure is largely empirical. Patients who have symptomatic failure on normal dose of PPI shall try double dose PPI. Failing that, empirical treatment with transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation reducers or pain modulators can be tried. Better understanding of the pathophysiology and mechanisms for PPI failure will help to improve the management of this rising problem.
Stand edge effects on distribution and condition of Diprionid sawflies
Authors: De Somviele Bert , Lyytikäinen‐Saarenmaa Päivi , Niemelä Pekka
Published: November 2006

1 We investigated stand edge effects on Diprion pini cocoon condition and distribution after an outbreak of unprecedented magnitude in Finland. We hypothesized that forest fragmentation and the resulting proportional increase in stand edge habitats may have led to the increase in outbreak area: D. pini may profit from edge habitats and so escape its control mechanisms more easily. This hypothesis was based on the observation that no outbreak occurred in neighbouring Russian Karelia, where the proportion of edge habitats between different stand types and/or successional stages is significantly less than in Finland.

2 To test the hypothesis, we determined the amount and condition of cocoons in an outbreak area, along transects going from stand centres through edge habitats, towards neighbouring stand centres.

3 Both the total number and number of cocoons in different conditions varied significantly between edges and centres. The effects were more pronounced when age difference between neighbouring stands increased.

4 Edge habitats did not benefit D. pini. Both the total number and number of hatched cocoons were consistently higher in centre than in edge habitats.

5 Defoliation was unrelated to distance from the edge, even on transects where cocoon density and condition was correlated to distance from the edge.

6 We conclude that edge habitats have an inhibitive effect on D. pini densities, and therefore our original hypothesis was rejected. The importance of small mammals to D. pini mortality was demonstrated, and we suggest further investigation of this predator–prey relationship because of its potential for limiting outbreak risk and/or damage through silvicultural measures.
Disentangling Value Similarities and Transmissions in Established Marriages: A Cross‐Lagged Longitudinal Study
Authors: Roest Annette M. C. , Semon Dubas Judith , Gerris Jan R. M. , Engels Rutger C. M. E.
Published: November 2006

This study examined spousal value similarity and transmission across a 5‐year period on four value orientations: traditional family values, self‐determination, social criticism, and hedonism. Participants were 685 Dutch couples in established marriages. Structural equation modeling results indicated that spouses were moderately similar on all value orientations. Over time, spousal similarity remained for traditional family values, self‐determination, and social criticism and decreased for hedonism. Direct spousal transmission occurred on social criticism and hedonism with wives influencing their husbands. Multiple group analyses revealed that wives’ value transmission to husbands occurred only within couples with similar social positions (in education and religion) and with higher degrees of marital satisfaction. Findings confirm that experiences in one’s family of destination contribute to midlife value development.
Who Decides? The Social Characteristics of Who Initiates Marital Separation
Authors: Hewitt Belinda , Western Mark , Baxter Janeen
Published: November 2006

This study investigates gender differences in the associations between social characteristics and men’s and women’s reports of which spouse initiated marital separation. Using retrospective data on 9,147 first marriages from the Household Income and Labor Dynamics in Australia survey (2001), we find that some social characteristics differentiated between separations initiated by wives compared to husbands, but few differences were statistically significant. The main gender difference is that wives are more inclined than husbands to initiate separation on the basis of their husbands’ as well as their own social characteristics. Our findings indicate that taking account of which spouse initiates separation is important for improving our understanding of gender differences in the processes of marriage breakdown, but more research is required.
ON WORD REVERSING IN BRAID GROUPS
Authors: DEHORNOY PATRICK , WIEST BERT
Published: November 2006

It has been conjectured that in a braid group, or more generally in a Garside group, applying any sequence of monotone equivalences and word reversings can increase the length of a word by at most a linear factor depending on the group presentation only. We give a counter-example to this conjecture, but, on the other hand, we establish length upper bounds for the case when only right reversing is involved. We also state a new conjecture which would, like the above one, imply that the space complexity of the handle reduction algorithm is linear.
Peer instruction enhanced student performance on qualitative problem-solving questions
Authors: Giuliodori Mauricio J. , Lujan Heidi L. , DiCarlo Stephen E.
Published: November 2006

We tested the hypothesis that peer instruction enhances student performance on qualitative problem-solving questions. To test this hypothesis, qualitative problems were included in a peer instruction format during our Physiology course. Each class of 90 min was divided into four to six short segments of 15 to 20 min each. Each short segment was followed by a qualitative problem-solving scenario that could be answered with a multiple-choice quiz. All students were allowed 1 min to think and to record their answers. Subsequently, students were allowed 1 min to discuss their answers with classmates. Students were then allowed to change their first answer if desired, and both answers were recorded. Finally, the instructor and students discussed the answer. Peer instruction significantly improved student performance on qualitative problem-solving questions (59.3 ± 0.5% vs. 80.3 ± 0.4%). Furthermore, after peer instruction, only 6.5% of the students changed their correct response to an incorrect response; however, 56.8% of students changed their incorrect response to a correct response. Therefore, students with incorrect responses changed their answers more often than students with correct responses. In conclusion, pausing four to six times during a 90-min class to allow peer instruction enhanced student performance on qualitative problem-solving questions.
A measure of the variability of revenue in auctions: A look at the revenue equivalence theorem
Authors: Beltrán Fernando , Santamaría Natalia
Published: November 2006

One not-so-intuitive result in auction theory is the revenue
equivalence theorem, which states that as long as an auction
complies with some conditions, it will on average generate the
same revenue to an auctioneer as the revenue generated by any
other auction that complies with them. Surprisingly, the conditions
are not defined on the payment rules to the bidders but on the
fact that the bidders do not bid below a reserve value—set by
the auctioneer—the winner is the one with the highest bidding and
there is a common equilibrium bidding function used by all bidders. In
this paper, we verify such result using extensive simulation of a
broad range of auctions and focus on the variability or
fluctuations of the results around the average. Such fluctuations
are observed and measured in two dimensions for each type of
auction: as the number of auctions grows and as the number of
bidders increases.
Effect of wall compliance on peristaltic transport of a Newtonian fluid in an asymmetric channel
Authors: Haroun Mohamed H.
Published: November 2006

Peristaltic transport of an incompressible viscous fluid in an asymmetric compliant channel is studied. The channel asymmetry is produced by choosing the peristaltic wave train on the walls to have different amplitudes and phases. The fluid‐solid interaction problem is investigated by considering equations of motion of both the fluid and the deformable boundaries. The driving mechanism of the muscle is represented by assuming the channel walls to be compliant. The phenomenon of the “mean flow reversal” is discussed. The effect of wave amplitude ratio, width of the channel, phase difference, wall elastance, wall tension, and wall damping on mean‐velocity and reversal flow has been investigated. The results reveal that the reversal flow occurs near the boundaries which is not possible in the elastic symmetric channel case.
Randomized Trial of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Subacute Infarct-Related Coronary Artery Occlusion to Achieve Long-Term Patency and Improve Ventricular Function
Authors: Džavík Vladimír , Buller Christopher E. , Lamas Gervasio A. , Rankin James M. , Mancini G.B. John , Cantor Warren J. , Carere Ronald J. , Ross John R. , Atchison Deborah , Forman Sandra , Thomas Boban , Buszman Pawel , Vozzi Carlos , Glanz Anthony , Cohen Eric A. , Mečiar Peter , Devlin Gerald , Mascette Alice , Sopko George , Knatterud Genell L. , Hochman Judith S.
Published: November 2006

Background—

In the present study, we sought to determine whether opening a persistently occluded infarct-related artery (IRA) by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients beyond the acute phase of myocardial infarction (MI) improves patency and indices of left ventricular (LV) size and function.

Methods and Results—

Between May 2000 and July 2005, 381 patients with an occluded native IRA 3 to 28 days after MI (median 10 days) were randomized to PCI with stenting (PCI) or optimal medical therapy alone. Repeat coronary and LV angiography was performed 1 year after randomization (n=332, 87%). Coprimary end points were IRA patency and change in LV ejection fraction. Secondary end points included change in LV end-systolic and end-diastolic volume indices and wall motion. PCI was successful in 92%. At 1 year, 83% of PCI versus 25% of medical therapy–only patients had a patent IRA (
P
<0.001). LV ejection fraction increased significantly (
P
<0.001) in both groups, with no between-group difference: PCI 4.2±8.9 (n=150) versus medical therapy 3.5±8.2 (n=136;
P
=0.47). Median change (interquartile range) in LV end-systolic volume index was −0.5 (−9.3 to 5.0) versus 1.0 (−5.7 to 7.3) mL/m
2
(
P
=0.10), whereas median change (interquartile range) in LV end-diastolic volume index was 3.2 (−8.2 to 13.3) versus 5.3 (−4.6 to 23.2) mL/m
2
(
P
=0.07) in the PCI (n=86) and medical therapy–only (n=76) groups, respectively.

Conclusions—

PCI with stenting of a persistently occluded IRA in the subacute phase after MI effectively maintains long-term patency but has no effect on LV ejection fraction. On the basis of these findings and the lack of clinical benefit in the main Occluded Artery Trial, routine PCI is not recommended for stable patients with a persistently occluded IRA after MI.
Potentiality and the Matter of Composite Substance
Authors: Beere Jonathan
Published: November 2006

The paper examines the connection between Aristotle's theory of generated substance and his notion of potentiality in Metaphysics Θ.7. Aristotle insists that the matter of a substance is not what that substance is, against a competing view that was widely held both in his day and now. He coined the term thaten (εκεíνινOν) in order to make this point. The term highlights a systematic correspondence between the metaphysics of matter and of quality: the relationship between a thing and its matter is like the relationship between a quali fied thing and the relevant quality. It is argued that Aristotle's view about the matter of particular substances is connected with his view about ultimate matter. His conception of the matter of particular substances allows him to block an argument, from Plato's Timaeus, that ultimate matter must be something imperceptible and lacking all perceptible qualities. Aristotle uses the term thaten to introduce an alternative conception of ultimate matter on which ultimate matter might well be an ordinary perceptible kind of thing.
Compared virulence of the Belgian isolate of Steinernema glaseri (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) and the type population of S. scarabaei to white grub species (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)
Authors: Ansari Minshad Ali , Ali Farman , Moens Maurice
Published: November 2006

The virulence of the entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema glaseri Belgian
strain and S. scarabaei against different development stages of the European
cockchafer Melolontha melolontha, Hoplia philanthus and Serica brunnea was
compared in the laboratory. The virulence of S. glaseri did not differ among
first, second and third instars of M. melolontha, H. philanthus or S.
brunnea. However, the virulence of S. scarabaei to second and third instars
of M. melolontha was greater than to first instars of this insect species,
but did not differ significantly between second and third instars of H.
philanthus. Our observations, combined with those of previous studies on
other nematode and white grub species, show that nematode virulence against
white grub developmental stages varies with white grub and nematodes
species.
The Rhythms of Life: Circadian Output Pathways in Neurospora
Authors: Vitalini Michael W. , de Paula Renato M. , Park William D. , Bell-Pedersen Deborah
Published: November 2006

Research in Neurospora crassa pioneered the isolation of clock-controlled genes (ccgs), and more than 180 ccgs have been identified that function in various aspects of the fungal life cycle. Many clock-controlled genes are associated with damage repair, stress responses, intermediary metabolism, protein synthesis, and development. The expression of most of these genes peaks just before dawn and appears to prepare the cells for the desiccation, mutagenesis, and stress caused by sunlight. Progress on characterization of the output signaling pathways from the circadian oscillator mechanism to the ccgs is discussed. The authors also review evidence suggesting that, similar to other clock model organisms, a connection exists between the redox state of the cell and the Neurospora clock. The authors speculate that the clock system may sense not only light but also the redox potential of the cell through one of the PAS domains of the core clock components WC-1 or WC-2.
HIV-1 subtype A infection in a community of intravenous drug users in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Saeed , Rai Mohammad A , Khanani Mohammad R , Khan Muhammad N , Ali Syed H
Published: November 2006

Background

Data on the subtypes of HIV in a population help in predicting the potential foci of epidemic, tracking the routes of infection and following the patterns of the virus' genetic divergence. Globally, the most prevalent HIV infection is the HIV-1 subtype C. In Asia, predominant subtypes of HIV-1 are B, C, and CRF-01AE. During the last few years, HIV prevalence in Pakistan has taken the form of a concentrated epidemic in at least two high risk groups, namely, Intravenous Drug Users (IDUs) and Male Sex Workers (MSWs). Factors that have facilitated the proliferation of HIV infection include transmission through a large number of repatriates and needle-sharing intravenous drug users, unscreened blood transfusions, and sexual illiteracy. The HIV subtypes infecting Pakistani populations have not been explored to date. In this study, we analyzed HIV-1 subtypes from in a high-risk community of IDUs in Karachi, the largest city of Pakistan.

Methods

Samples were collected from 34 IDUs after their informed consent. In addition, the study subjects were administered a questionnaire regarding their sexual behavior and travel history. For HIV analysis, DNA was extracted from the samples and analyzed for HIV types and subtypes using subtype-specific primers in a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results from this PCR were further confirmed using the Heteroduplex Mobility Assay (HMA).

Results

We found HIV-1 subtype A in all the 34 samples analyzed. A few of the study subjects were found to have a history of travel and stay in the United Arab Emirates. The same subjects also admitted to having contact with commercial sex workers during their stay abroad.

Conclusion

Our study therefore shows clade A HIV-1 to be prevalent among the IDUs in Karachi. As the prevalence of HIV in Pakistan continues to rise, more work needs to be done to track the infection, and to analyze the strains of HIV spreading through the country.
Effects of L‐Carnitine Pretreatment in Methamphetamine and 3‐Nitropropionic Acid‐Induced Neurotoxicity
Authors: BINIENDA ZBIGNIEW K. , PRZYBYLA BEATA D. , ROBINSON BONNIE L. , SALEM NADIA , VIRMANI ASHRAF , AMATO ANTONINO , ALI SYED F.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Adult, male Sprague‐Dawley rats were injected with 3‐ni‐tropropionic acid (3‐NPA) at 30 mg/kg or methamphetamine (METH) at 20 mg/kg alone or following pretreatment with L‐cartnitine (LC) at 100 mg/kg. Rectal temperature was measured before and 4 h following treatment. Animals were sacrificed at 4 h posttreatment. Monoamine neurotransmitters, dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5‐HT), and their metabolites were analyzed in the striatum using high‐performance liquid chromatography method coupled with electrochemical detection (HPLC/ED)
. Transcripts of several genes related to DA metabolism were quantified using real time reverse transciption polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Core temperature decreased significantly after 3‐NPA acid and increased in METH‐treated rats (P < 0.05). Temperature change at 4 h exhibited a significant LC effect for 3‐NPA, preventing hypothermia (P < 0.05) and no effect for METH. Concentration of DA and 5‐HT, and their metabolites, 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), homovanillic acid (HVA), and 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5‐HIAA), increased significantly in 3‐NPA and decreased in METH‐treated rats. An increase in DOPAC/DA turnover and serotonin observed after 3‐NPA was abolished in LC‐/3‐NPA‐treated rats. In both 3‐NPA‐ and METH‐treated rats, LC prevented an increase in DA receptor D1 gene expression. It appears that carnitine effect preventing hypothermia after 3‐NPA treatments may be related not only to its mitochondriotropic actions but also to inhibitory effect on the DA and 5‐HT systems activated after the exposure to 3‐NPA. The same effect observed at the transcriptional level, at least for the DA receptor D1, may account for protection against METH toxicity.
Estrogen, Testosterone, and Methamphetamine Toxicity
Authors: DLUZEN DEAN E. , MCDERMOTT JANET L.
Published: November 2006

Abstract: The gonadal steroid hormone, estrogen, can diminish the degree of striatal dopamine depletion resulting from methamphetamine. In this article, we describe the conditions of this estrogen neuroprotection as well as the potential for estrogen and testosterone to enhance methamphetamine‐induced neurodegeneration of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system. When administered prior to a neurotoxic regimen of methamphetamine, estrogen significantly decreases the amount of striatal dopamine depletion in intact or gonadectomized female, but not male, mice. This capacity for estrogen to function as a neuroprotectant can occur quite rapidly, at 30 min prior to methamphetamine administration, and with relatively low doses of estrogen (1 μg estradiol benzoate). Estrogen remains an effective neuroprotectant in neonatally gonadectomized female mice treated with testosterone, but not in female mice that were gonadectomized prior to puberty. Nor does estrogen demonstrate any beneficial effects when administered after methamphetamine. Recent data have indicated some conditions where gonadal steroids can increase the extent of striatal neurodegeneration in response to methamphetamine. Specifically, when some existing perturbation is present in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic system, treatment with estrogen enhances the extent of striatal dopamine depletion to methamphetamine. Similarly, increased striatal dopamine depletion to methamphetamine is observed in gonadectomized male mice treated with testosterone.
Dopamine Stimulation via Infusion in the Lateral Ventricle
Authors: BIAGIONI FRANCESCA , BUSCETI CARLA L. , MOLINARO GEMMA , BATTAGLIA GIUSEPPE , GIORGI FILIPPO S. , RUGGIERI STEFANO , FORNAI FRANCESCO
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Continuous dopamine (DA) stimulation is a therapeutic approach that applies to the treatment of motor fluctuations due to pulsatile DA stimulation in Parkinson's disease (PD), to cure the abuse of drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamine (which produce short‐lasting peaks of extracellular DA), and as a safe therapeutic approach to avoid hedonistic homeostatic dysregulation (which sometime develops as an abuse pattern in PD patients receiving a pulsatile DA replacement therapy). However, systemic continuous delivery of DA agonists leads to a variety of side effects. In search for an alterative approach, in the present study we evaluated the possibility of delivering intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.), a DA agonist: lisuride that was already shown to be effective when administered continuously subcutaneously (s.c.). In particular, we were interested in examining whether lisuride infused within the lateral ventricle was still able to stimulate DA receptor by inducing contralateral turning behavior in hemiparkinsonian rats. We found that lisuride, when infused in the lateral ventricle was effective in reducing the threshold for stimulating DA receptors. These results offer a more reliable and safe therapeutic approach to deliver continuous DA selectively in the brain.