bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of a vasa‐like gene from the pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei and its expression during oogenesis
Authors: Aflalo Eli D. , Bakhrat Anna , Raviv Shaul , Harari Daniel , Sagi Amir , Abdu Uri
Published: September 2006

The vasa gene encodes an ATP‐dependent RNA helicase belonging to the DEAD‐box family that, in many organisms, is specifically expressed in germline cells throughout the life cycle. In this study we first cloned Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) partial cDNAs of two members of the DEAD‐box family, one belonging to the vasa subfamily (Lv‐Vasa) and the other to the PL10 subfamily (Lv‐PL10). Examination of their spatial expression pattern in adult tissues revealed that Lv‐Vasa is restricted to the gonads, whereas Lv‐PL10 is found in gonads as well as in somatic tissues. Next, we cloned the full‐length shrimp vasa cDNA and found that Lv‐Vasa encoded a protein with a DEAD‐like helicase domain followed by a helicase superfamily C‐terminal domain. In addition, Lv‐Vasa encoded N‐terminal three repeats of the C2HC‐type zinc finger domain, a motif encoded by vasa genes of several crustaceans and several other invertebrate organisms. In situ hybridization of ovarian sections showed that the Lv‐Vasa transcript is localized to the cytoplasm of the oocyte throughout oogenesis. The abundance of Lv‐Vasa mRNA in mature oocytes suggests a maternal contribution for the developing embryo. It is demonstrated that the vasa homolog from L. vannamei is a gonad specific germline cell marker that could be exploited to enhance our understanding of developmental and reproductive processes in the germline of this economically important shrimp. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three‐dimensional simulation of concrete fracture using embedded crack elements without enforcing crack path continuity
Authors: Sancho José M. , Planas Jaime , Fathy Adel M. , Gálvez Jaime C. , Cendón David A.
Published: September 2006

Numerical implementation of quasibrittle cohesive cracking is still an open issue, 30 years after the introduction of the fictitious crack by Hillerborg. The paper first briefly presents the existing trends and underpins the basic problems of the various procedures, especially the necessity (to avoid crack locking) of tracking algorithms to enforce crack path continuity. As an alternative, the paper describes a recent method based on very simple ingredients: strong discontinuity kinematics, constant stress tetrahedral, crack equilibrium solved at element level, damage‐like cohesive crack with central forces, and limited local crack adaptability that is able, as shown by the examples, to describe the cohesive crack growth with adequate accuracy while keeping the formulation strictly local (element level only, no neighbours information required). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Semi‐implicit reversible algorithms for rigid body rotational dynamics
Authors: Nukala Phani Kumar V. V. , Jr William Shelton
Published: September 2006

This paper presents two semi‐implicit algorithms based on splitting methodology for rigid body rotational dynamics. The first algorithm is a variation of partitioned Runge–Kutta (PRK) methodology that can be formulated as a splitting method. The second algorithm is akin to a multiple time stepping scheme and is based on modified Crouch–Grossman (MCG) methodology, which can also be expressed as a splitting algorithm. These algorithms are second‐order accurate and time‐reversible; however, they are not Poisson integrators, i.e. non‐symplectic. These algorithms conserve some of the first integrals of motion, but some others are not conserved; however, the fluctuations in these invariants are bounded over exponentially long time intervals. These algorithms exhibit excellent long‐term behaviour because of their reversibility property and their (approximate) Poisson structure preserving property. The numerical results indicate that the proposed algorithms exhibit superior performance compared to some of the currently well known algorithms such as the Simo–Wong algorithm, Newmark algorithm, discrete Moser–Veselov algorithm, Lewis–Simo algorithm, and the LIEMID[EA] algorithm. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacists' attitudes towards the reporting of suspected adverse drug reactions in Norway
Authors: Granas Anne G. , Buajordet Marit , Stenberg‐Nilsen Hanne , Harg Pernille , Horn Anne M.
Published: September 2006

Background

In Scandinavian countries, pharmacists have not reported adverse drug reactions (ADRs), either due to legislative restrictions or because of lack of tradition. From 1 January 2005, Norwegian pharmacists have been encouraged by the Norwegian Medicines Agency to take a larger role in the reporting of ADRs.

Objective

To explore pharmacists' attitudes towards pharmacovigilance and their experiences with ADR reporting, to evaluate the effect of an educational programme and to compare these findings to the attitudes in a control group.

Methods

From September 2004, pharmacies in two of Norway's five health regions were invited to attend a 3‐month ADR reporting study, and 39 pharmacies were recruited. One pharmacist from each pharmacy participated in a 1 day pre‐study educational programme and a 1 day post‐study evaluation meeting. Pharmacists involved in the study answered a questionnaire (A) regarding their attitudes to ADR reporting (active group). A control group answered the same questionnaire. One reminder was sent. The active group evaluated the study by answering questionnaire A once more and an evaluation questionnaire (B). Qualitative aspects of ADR reporting were discussed with the active group post‐study.

Results

The response rate for questionnaire A was 97% (n = 158) in the active group, 74% (n = 184) in the control group and the response rate for questionnaire A and B post‐study was 68% (n = 105) in the active group. Pharmacists in the active group had more positive attitudes to ADR reporting after taking part in the study than the control group (p < 0.001). Lack of time, confidence and knowledge of reporting rules could potentially prevent them from reporting ADRs.

Conclusions

The pharmacists had positive attitudes towards pharmacovigilance, but very little experience with reporting. The educational programme clarified their role and increased their knowledge about the reporting requirements. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of over‐the‐counter simvastatin on the number of statin prescriptions in the United Kingdom: a view from the General Practice Research Database
Authors: Filion Kristian B. , Chris Delaney J. A. , Brophy James M. , Ernst Pierre , Suissa Samy
Published: September 2006

Purpose

The United Kingdom (UK) government changed the prescription policy of statins, making low‐dose simvastatin (10 mg) available as an over‐the‐counter (OTC) drug in August 2004. We assessed the impact of this policy change on statin prescribing.

Methods

We examined all statin prescriptions in the General Practice Research Database (GPRD), a well‐validated database of approximately 3.5 million patients, from the first quarter of 2001 to the second quarter of 2005.

Results

From 2001, the number of statin prescriptions written for GPRD patients was increasing by approximately 437 prescriptions per 100,000 people per quarter until the time of the policy change. Over the four quarters post‐policy implementation, however, this trend changed abruptly (p < 0.0001) with a decrease of 281 prescriptions per 100,000 people per quarter. This decrease was not restricted to prescriptions of 10 mg statins but was also observed for statin prescriptions of ≥20 mg. Several other cardiovascular medications displayed a similar trend as that observed in the number of statin prescriptions. This trend was not observed among non‐cardiovascular control medications.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the policy allowing the OTC sale of 10 mg simvastatin has had a significant impact on statin prescriptions by general practitioners. However, this new policy may also be leading to less aggressive statin therapy. An alternative explanation for the observed decrease in statin prescriptions may be related to the unknown factors responsible for the overall decrease observed with other cardiovascular prescription drugs. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thickness‐dependent reduction of the glass‐transition temperature in thin polymer films with a free surface
Authors: Peter Simone , Meyer Hendrik , Baschnagel Jörg
Published: September 2006

We present results of molecular dynamics simulations for free‐standing and supported thin films of a nonentangled polymer melt using a coarse‐grained (bead‐spring) model. Our discussion is mainly concerned with the equilibrium properties of the films above the critical temperature (Tc) of mode‐coupling theory, although we also determine the glass‐transition temperature (Tg) by measurements of the film thickness h upon cooling. We explore the influence of confinement on the structure and dynamics of the polymer films. We find that the dynamics in the films is accelerated compared to the bulk, that this enhanced mobility originates from the surfaces, and that the effect is larger at the free than at the supported surface. Thus, the films have lower Tc values relative to the bulk. Tc depends on film thickness h; this dependence can be well parametrized by Tc(h) = T/(1 + h0/h), a function proposed by experiments on supported polystyrene films. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 2951–2967, 2006
Polymer–nanoparticle interfacial interactions in polymer nanocomposites: Confinement effects on glass transition temperature and suppression of physical aging
Authors: Rittigstein Perla , Torkelson John M.
Published: September 2006

The effects of confinement on glass transition temperature (Tg) and physical aging are measured in polystyrene (PS), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and poly(2‐vinyl pyridine) (P2VP) nanocomposites containing 10‐ to 15‐nm‐diameter silica nanospheres or 47‐nm‐diameter alumina nanospheres. Nanocomposites are made by spin coating films from sonicated solutions of polymer, nanofiller, and dye. The Tgs and physical aging rates are measured by fluorescence of trace levels of dye in the films. At 0.1–10 vol % nanofiller, Tg values can be enhanced or depressed relative to neat, bulk Tg (Tg,bulk) or invariant with nanofiller content. For alumina nanocomposites, Tg increases relative to Tg,bulk by as much as 16 K in P2VP, decreases by as much as 5 K in PMMA, and is invariant in PS. By analogy with thin polymer films, these results are explained by wetted P2VP–nanofiller interfaces with attractive interactions, nonwetted PMMA–nanofiller interfaces (free space at the interface), and wetted PS–nanofiller interfaces lacking attractive interactions, respectively. The presence of wetted or nonwetted interfaces is controlled by choice of solvent. For example, 0.1–0.6 vol % silica/PMMA nanocomposites exhibit Tg enhancements as large as 5 K or Tg reductions as large as 17 K relative to Tg,bulk when films are made from methyl ethyl ketone or acetic acid solutions, respectively. A factor of 17 reduction of physical aging rate relative to that of neat, bulk P2VP is demonstrated in a 4 vol % alumina/P2VP nanocomposite. This suggests that a strategy for achieving nonequilibrium, glassy polymeric systems that are stable or nearly stable to physical aging is to incorporate well‐dispersed nanoparticles possessing attractive interfacial interactions with the polymer. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 2935–2943, 2006
Controlling the thermomechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites by tailoring the polymer–particle interface
Authors: Bansal Amitabh , Yang Hoichang , Li Chunzhao , Benicewicz Brian C. , Kumar Sanat K. , Schadler Linda S.
Published: September 2006

We show that the thermomechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites are critically affected by polymer‐particle wetting behavior. Silica nanoparticles grafted with dense polystyrene brushes of degree of polymerization 1050 are blended with polystyrene melts to form nanocomposites. It was found that low molecular weight (MW) polystyrene melts with lengths <880 wet these particles. Concurrently, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the nanocomposite increases. At higher MW, the matrix does not wet the particles and the Tg decreases. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 44: 2944–2950, 2006
Bioactivity of extracts and isolated compounds from Vitex polygama (Verbenaceae) and Siphoneugena densiflora (Myrtaceae) against Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Gallo Margareth BC , Rocha Waldireny C , da Cunha Uemerson S , Diogo Fernanda A , da Silva Fernando C , Vieira Paulo C , Vendramim José D , Fernandes João B , da Silva M Fátima das GF , Batista‐Pereira Luciane G
Published: September 2006

The effects of crude extracts, fractions and isolated compounds from Vitex polygama Cham. and Siphoneugena densiflora Berg were evaluated on the development of Spodoptera frugiperda JE Smith, a destructive insect pest of corn and several other crops. The extracts and fractions were incorporated into an artificial diet at 1 mg g−1 and offered to the insect during its larval stage. Length and viability of larval and pupal stages as well as pupal weight were assessed. Isolated compounds were tested through superficial contamination of the diet at 0.1 mg g−1. Weight and viability of ten‐day‐old larvae were determined. Methanolic and hydroalcoholic S. densiflora extracts caused 100% larval mortality, while leaf and fruit hydroalcoholic extracts from V. polygama were the most active. Among the isolated compounds, flavonoids presented the best insecticidal results, and tannins the best larval growth inhibition. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Activities of mixtures of soil‐applied herbicides with different molecular targets
Authors: Kaushik Shalini , Inderjit  , Streibig Jens Carl , Cedergreen Nina
Published: September 2006

The joint action of soil‐applied herbicide mixtures with similar or different modes of action has been assessed by using the additive dose model (ADM). The herbicides chlorsulfuron, metsulfuron‐methyl, pendimethalin and pretilachlor, applied either singly or in binary mixtures, were used on rice (Oryza sativa L.). The growth (shoot) response curves were described by a logistic dose–response model. The ED50 values and their corresponding standard errors obtained from the response curves were used to test statistically if the shape of the isoboles differed from the reference model (ADM). Results showed that mixtures of herbicides with similar molecular targets, i.e. chlorsulfuron and metsulfuron (acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors), and with different molecular targets, i.e. pendimethalin (microtubule assembly inhibitor) and pretilachlor (very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) inhibitor), followed the ADM. Mixing herbicides with different molecular targets gave different results depending on whether pretilachlor or pendimethalin was involved. In general, mixtures of pretilachlor and sulfonylureas showed synergistic interactions, whereas mixtures of pendimethalin and sulfonylureas exhibited either antagonistic or additive activities. Hence, there is a large potential for both increasing the specificity of herbicides by using mixtures and lowering the total dose for weed control, while at the same time delaying the development of herbicide resistance by using mixtures with different molecular targets. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of electronic nose method for evaluation of HDPE flavour characteristics, correlated with organoleptic testing
Authors: Das Rajarshi , Selke Susan , Harte Janice
Published: September 2006

A method for analysing food‐grade high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) resins was developed using the electronic nose (E‐nose) system. Eight different HDPE resin grades were analysed using the E‐nose. The E‐nose system with principal component analysis was found to be capable of discriminating between the resin grades. The resin samples were soaked in ultra‐pure water at 40 ±2°C for 1 week. Water samples stored in contact with the resins were organoleptically evaluated at different concentrations by untrained discrimination sensory panels and the resins were ranked based on the degree of off‐flavour perceived. The E‐nose was used to correlate the sensory data and the sensor responses for the various resin grades, using multivariate statistical techniques. A good correlation was obtained between the E‐nose sensor responses and the human sensory analysis data, when the resins were analysed using standardized experimental run conditions. The method is capable of predicting the quality of an unknown food‐grade HDPE resin sample, in terms of its possibility of producing an off‐flavour in drinking water, which could be a result of migration of low molecular weight compounds from the polymer. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Formula that accounts a number of atoms within a period of the periodic table
Authors: Kryachko Eugene S.
Published: September 2006

The formula that determines a number of atoms within a period of the Periodic Table is derived and compared with the formula offered by Tomkeieff in 1951. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem 2007
Electron transport in Nano‐Gold–Silicon interfaces
Authors: Yan Liuming , Seminario Jorge M.
Published: September 2006

The electron transport characteristics of gold–silicon interfaces are studied using a combined ab initio approach of the Green's function for electron transfer and quantum density functional theory (DFT) for finite and extended systems. The Kohn–Sham Hamiltonian of an extended cluster or molecule and the density of states (DOS) of bulk Si and Au are used to construct the interface Hamiltonian to obtain the DOS, electron transmission, and current–voltage characteristics of the interface. Diode behavior is observed with electron conduction when the gold side is positively biased with a threshold of 0.8 V. The presence of molecules trapped at the interface and the geometry of the metal atoms strongly affect the conductance, implying difficult or even impossible theory–experiment validations. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Experimental and theoretical IR, Raman, NMR spectra of 2‐, 3‐, and 4‐nitrobenzoic acids
Authors: Samsonowicz M. , Świsłocka R. , Regulska E. , Lewandowski W.
Published: September 2006

The influence of the position of nitro group toward the carboxylic group on the vibration structure of the molecule was estimated. Optimized geometrical structures were calculated (HF, B3PW91, B3LYP). Experimental and theoretical FT‐IR, FT‐Raman, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra of the title compounds were recorded and analyzed. The most important vibrational bands of nitro and carboxyl groups and the benzene ring were assigned. Wavenumbers and intensities for the three acids studied were compared and discussed. Data of chemical shifts in 1H and 13C NMR spectra of 2‐, 3‐, and 4‐nitrobenzoic acids were analyzed in comparison with benzoic acid molecule. The calculated parameters are compared with experimental characteristics of these molecules. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Nonrigid group theory for 1,3,5‐trimethylbenzene
Authors: Darafsheh Mohammad Reza , Darafsheh Arash , Ashrafi Ali Reza
Published: September 2006

Using nonrigid group theory, the full nonrigid (f‐NRG) group of 1,3,5‐trimethylbenzene (TMB) is shown to be isomorphic to the group S3[C3] = C3
S3 of order 162, where denotes the wreath product of groups, and C3 is the cyclic group of order three and S3 is the symmetric group of order six on three letters. This group has 22 conjugacy classes and irreducible representations. The character table of the full nonrigid TMB is then derived for the first time. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Electronic structure calculations on multiply charged anions containing MS bonds (M = Cr, Mo, W) and their heterobimetallic cluster complexes
Authors: Gili Pedro , Tsipis Athanassios C.
Published: September 2006

Molecular and electronic structures of multiply charged mononuclear [CrS4]2−/3−, [MoOxS4−x]2−/3− (x = 0–4) and [WS4]2−/3− anionic species, and their heterobimetallic dinuclear and trinuclear clusters formulated as [MoOS3(CuCl)]2−, [WOS3(CuCl)]2−, [MoS4{Cu(CN)}]2−, [(CN)Cu(μ‐CrS4)Cu(CN)]2−, [(CN)Cu(μ‐MoS4)Cu(CN)]2−, [ClCu(μ‐MoS4)CuCl]2−, [Cl2Fe(μ‐MoS4)CuCl2]2−, and [(CN)Cu(μ‐WS4)Cu(CN)]2− have been investigated using electronic structure calculation (HF, MP4SDQ and DFT) methods. For the discrete mononuclear anions HF/lanl2dz(M)∪6‐31+G*(S,O) method provided the best description of their molecular structures, while for the heterobimetallic dinuclear and trinuclear clusters the B3LYP/lanl2dz(M)∪6‐31+G* method gave equilibrium geometries closely resembling the experimental ones. Electronic and spectroscopic (IR, UV‐Vis) properties of the thiometalates are discussed in relation to their structures, while the bonding mechanism was analyzed in the framework of the natural bond orbital (NBO) approach. The nature of the highest occupied molecular orbitals (HOMOs) of all thiometalates indicated their ability to act as ligands coordinated with metal centers and forming clusters of higher nuclearity. The lowest‐lying vertical one‐electron detachment processes from the ground state of the [CrS4]2/3−, [MoOxS4−x]2/3− (x = 0–4) and [WS4]2/3− anions have been calculated using the outer valence Green's function (OVGF) method. Interestingly, in the heterobimetallic dinuclear and trinuclear clusters intemetallic M…M′ interactions exist corresponding to d10 → d0 dative bonding. Finally, the complete energetic and geometric profile of the successive acid‐catalyzed formation reactions:

equation image

and the reverse hydrolysis reactions have been delineated and details of the mechanism have been furnished. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Symmetric ring puckering potential in thietane‐1,1‐dioxide compared with experiment and analysis of theoretical vibrational spectra
Authors: Förner Wolfgang , Badawi Hassan M.
Published: September 2006

We studied the ring puckering potential in thietane‐1,1‐dioxide with different methods, using a suitable basis set, 6‐311+G**. We obtained a barrier to ring puckering of 153 cal/mol with the DFT/B3LYP (Becke3 exchange–Lee, Yang, Parr correlation functional) method, ∼60% too small compared with experiment. However, using MP2, MP3, and MP4 we obtained values around 200% too large. The MP series turned out to converge far too slowly to the experimental barrier value, showing no sign of convergence even at MP4, while higher orders are out of our reach for such a system. Obviously, of all methods used, DFT worked best despite some shortcomings. The barrier corresponds to 77 K; thus, there should be rapid interconversion over the barrier at room temperature, a phenomenon actually observed at room temperature, the measured barrier corresponding to 201 K. Thus, we decided to use the DFT/6‐311+G** calculations to predict reasonable vibrational spectra and assignments of the lines found. The ring puckering mode is found at 80 cm−1 in DFT in good agreement with the experimental value of 78.3 cm−1 for this vibration. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Generalized electronic diabatic approach to structural similarity and the Hammond postulate
Authors: Arteca Gustavo A. , Tapia O.
Published: September 2006

We revisit the notion of structural similarity along a reaction path within the context of a generalized electronic diabatic (GED) molecular model. In this approach, a reaction involving two closed‐shell stable species is described as the evolution of a quantum state that superimposes at least three diabatic electronic species (reactant, product, and an open‐shell transition state) coupled by an external electromagnetic field. Reactant and product amplitudes in this general state are also modulated by changing the geometry of a system of classical positive charges interacting with the electrons. By mapping these amplitudes over nuclear configurational space, we can follow the total quantum state along a reaction coordinate and establish its similarity to each of the diabatic species. As a result, chemical processes, and useful notions such as those of energy barriers and the Hammond postulate, emerge as consequence of Franck–Condon‐like transitions between quantum states. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Comparative study of electrostatic solvent response by RISM and PCM methods
Authors: Chiodo S. , Chuev G. N. , Erofeeva S. E. , Fedorov M. V. , Russo N. , Sicilia E.
Published: September 2006

The solvent response on the solute is calculated by the reference interaction site model (RISM) and by the polarizable continuum model (PCM) methods. The linearized RISM technique is developed to treat free energies of atomic and polyatomic ions in water. An empirical repulsive bridge is used for the RISM calculations. The solvent electrostatic potential is approximated by a linear dependence on the solute atomic charges. For a series of monovalent polyatomic cations and anions, the method provides free energies deviating by few percent from the experimental data. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Development of a liquid chromatography/electrospray selected reaction monitoring method for the determination of organoarsenic species in marine and freshwater samples
Authors: Schaeffer Richard , Fodor Peter , Soeroes Csilla
Published: September 2006

Cation‐ and anion‐exchange high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray selected reaction monitoring (HPLC/ES‐SRM) methods were developed for the determination of 15 organoarsenic compounds in marine and freshwater samples. The results demonstrate that the developed HPLC/ES‐SRM methods are powerful approaches for the identification of organoarsenic species in crude sample extracts. The detection limits, linearity as well as reproducibility for most of the species are comparable or even better than those measured by the HPLC/inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) technique. The qualitative analysis of the extracts shows that the developed methods allow for the identification of arsenicals which were not detectable by ICPMS.

It was also demonstrated that the signal suppression caused by matrix effects means a significant limitation in the quantification of arsenicals by ES‐SRM detection. This drawback is manifested especially in the case of the slightly retained species. The three sample‐cleanup chromatographic methods including off‐line size‐exclusion, on‐line reversed‐phase and on‐line oppositely charged ion‐exchange approaches proved to be ineffective for separation of the signal‐suppressive matrix from the analytes. The standard addition calibration seems to be a suitable solution for such problems. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reduction of nitriles to amines in positive ion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Gu Zhe‐ming , Ma Jiyuan , Zhao Xian‐guo , Wu Jinn , Zhang Donglu
Published: September 2006

Some compounds readily form [M+46]+ adduct ions during positive ion electrospray ionization mass spectrometry ((+)ESI‐MS) analysis. These [M+46]+ ions were characterized as [M+CH3CH2NH2+H]+ by accurate mass determination. Ethylamine involved in the adduct was proposed to be the reduction product of acetonitrile and this was confirmed using deuterated acetonitrile. Other nitrile‐containing compounds tested, including isobutyronitrile and benzonitrile, also formed the adduct ions of the respective amine forms under (+)ESI‐MS conditions. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange experiments demonstrated that the reductive hydrogen originated from water. Reduction of nitriles (R‐CN) to their respective amines (R‐CH2NH2) under (+)ESI‐MS conditions expands the ability to identify nitrile‐containing chemical unknowns. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First‐trimester ultrasound and biochemical markers of aneuploidy and the prediction of impending fetal death
Authors: Spencer K. , Cowans N. J. , Avgidou K. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: September 2006

Objectives

To examine the clinical utility of the first‐trimester markers of aneuploidy in their ability to predict future fetal loss.

Methods

We examined 54 722 singleton pregnancies with no chromosomal abnormality and with complete outcome data that had undergone screening for trisomy 21 by a combination of fetal nuchal translucency (NT) thickness, maternal serum free β‐human chorionic gonadotropin (β‐hCG) and pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) at 11 + 0 and 13 + 6 weeks' gestation. The biochemical markers were converted to multiples of the expected normal median for a pregnancy of the same gestation (MoM) and the measurements of fetal NT were expressed as the difference (delta) from the normal median NT for crown–rump length (CRL). The association between free β‐hCG, PAPP‐A and delta NT and the incidence of fetal loss prior to 24 weeks, at or after 24 weeks or at any time, was assessed by comparing the relative incidence at a number of MoM or delta NT cut‐offs and at various centile cut‐offs. At various marker levels the likelihood ratio (LR) for fetal loss was also calculated.

Results

The rate of fetal loss increased with decreasing maternal serum free β‐hCG and PAPP‐A and increasing delta NT. At the 5th centile of the normal outcome group for free β‐hCG (0.41 MoM) the odds ratio for fetal loss before 24 weeks, at or above 24 weeks and at any gestation was 3.1, 1.8 and 2.6, respectively. The respective values for the 5th centile of PAPP‐A (0.415 MoM) were 3.3, 1.9 and 2.8 and for the 95th centile of delta NT they were 2.5, 1.9 and 2.2, respectively. There was almost no correlation between reduced levels (≤0.50 MoM) of PAPP‐A and reduced levels of free β‐hCG in either the normal pregnancy group (r = 0.041) or the group with fetal death (r = 0.072), indicating relatively independent prediction by either biochemical marker.

Conclusions

Low levels of maternal serum PAPP‐A and free β‐hCG and increased fetal NT are associated, in the absence of an abnormal karyotype, with an increased risk of impending fetal death. The likelihood ratio profiles provided at various levels of PAPP‐A or free β‐hCG may be of some help in counseling women with such results and raise awareness among health‐care professionals for increased surveillance in such cases. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The decline of jaguars Panthera onca in the Argentine Chaco
Authors: Altrichter Mariana , Boaglio Gabriel , Perovic Pablo
Published: September 2006

We assessed the distribution and status of jaguar Panthera onca in the Argentine Chaco, one of the least known areas within its range. Current jaguar distribution in the Chaco encompasses parts of central and western Formosa, western Chaco, eastern Salta and north-eastern Santiago del Estero Provinces. Jaguar range was reduced following colonization of the semiarid Chaco even though there has been little deforestation. Jaguars have not been observed over the last 15 years in areas where colonization occurred more than 35 years ago, probably reflecting hunting pressure. Livestock predation is lower now than when the area was first settled in the 1920s. This may indicate low jaguar densities as the livestock management system has not changed. Local people, however, continue to hunt jaguars with the intention of exterminating them. Education, enforcing jaguar hunting laws, increasing control of poaching in protected areas, and creating more protected areas may be the most efficient strategies to preserve the jaguar population of the Argentine Chaco.
Another Seychelles endemic close to extinction: the emballonurid bat Coleura seychellensis
Authors: Bambini Laura , Blyth Andrew , Bradford Tim , Bristol Rachel , Burthe Sarah , Craig Louise , Downs Nick , Laing Sinclair , Marshall-Ball Lorraine , McGowan Denise , Vel Terence , Racey Paul
Published: September 2006

The only microchiropteran endemic to the granitic Seychelles, the sheath-tailed bat Coleura seychellensis, is categorized as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Using bat detectors, the islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue were surveyed to establish the current distribution of this species. Although two new roosts were discovered on Mahé, no bats were observed on Praslin and La Digue, and the range of C. seychellensis appears to have further contracted in the last 2 decades. A total of 19 C. seychellensis were counted emerging from or entering three roosts in boulder caves on Mahé during 18 evenings of observations. The bats foraged in open coastal habitat, some of it anthropogenic, and their echolocation calls were also characteristic of bats feeding in open habitat. This study provides no evidence that C. seychellensis is dependent on forest or wetland for foraging. Dietary analysis indicated that C. seychellensis feeds on Coleoptera, Lepidoptera and Diptera. A public education programme to highlight the conservation status of the bat and the consequences of roost disturbance is recommended, together with the urgent need for legal protection of the bats and their roosts.
The endemic land snail Gulella taitensis of the Taita Hills forests, Kenya: on the brink of extinction
Authors: Lange Charles N.
Published: September 2006

This paper describes the distribution, population size and conservation needs of the land snail Gulella taitensis (Gastropoda: Streptaxidae) endemic to the Taita Hills, Kenya. The species was investigated using timed searches between July and December 2000. In total 37 snails were recorded from only five of nine forest fragments searched. The snail was generally more abundant in the smaller forest fragments. The species appears to be a forest specialist, exhibiting preference for the least disturbed sections of forest. The small population size, restricted distribution and concentration in the smallest and most fragile forest fragments suggests the species is on the brink of extinction. The species fulfills the requirements for changing its conservation status from Endangered to Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Promotion of the Forest Reserves to a conservation category that provides greater legal protection is necessary.
Managing small populations in practice: black rhino Diceros bicornis michaeli in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Authors: Mills Anthony , Morkel Pete , Amiyo Amiyo , Runyoro Victor , Borner Markus , Thirgood Simon
Published: September 2006

Black rhino Diceros bicornis michaeli in Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania were reduced by poaching from c. 110 animals in the mid 1960s to c. 20 by the mid 1970s. Despite little subsequent poaching the rhino population has not increased. This paper builds on a stakeholder workshop held in September 2003 to consider the problems facing these rhino and make recommendations for management. Research and monitoring is required as conservation decisions are, through necessity, being taken based on expert opinion. Genetic constraints may arise in the future given the small population size. We hypothesize, however, that the rhino population is currently limited by ecological factors including: neonatal predation by hyaena Crocuta crocuta, loss of calving refuges because of a reduction in Acacia xanthophloea, competition for browse with elephant Loxodonta africana and buffalo Syncerus caffer, tick-borne disease, and disturbance from tourism. These factors are exacerbated by an institutional philosophy of non-intervention. We suggest using adaptive inference to assess this hypothesis and to provide managers with appropriate information for rhino conservation.
Detecting a decline in whale shark Rhincodon typus sightings in the Andaman Sea, Thailand, using ecotourist operator-collected data
Authors: Theberge Michelle M. , Dearden Philip
Published: September 2006

In this paper, we analyse long-term whale shark Rhincodon typus sightings collected by ecotourist operators and evaluate the validity of conclusions drawn from the data for scientific and conservation purposes. To date information about the basic ecology and movements of whale sharks is sparse, and only recently has the species received global conservation attention. A dive company in Phuket, Thailand, documented whale shark sightings in the Andaman Sea for 10 years along 300 km of coastline. Whale shark sightings, corrected for effort, dropped by 96% between 1998 and 2001. Combining the seasons from 1992 to 1998, the number of whale shark sightings increased significantly from October to May. The sizes of sharks observed suggest that the majority were juveniles. We discuss the limitations of using ecotourist operators as non-specialist volunteers for data collection but conclude that their use can be beneficial for long-term, broad geographic studies such as this.
Eimeria-parasites are associated with a lowered mother's and offspring's body condition in island and mainland populations of the bank vole
Authors: HAKKARAINEN H. , HUHTA E. , KOSKELA E. , MAPPES T. , SOVERI T. , SUORSA P.
Published: September 2006

This study, based on correlative data, tests the hypothesis that infections withEimeriaspp. parasites exert a significant loss of fitness of bank voles (Clethrionomys glareolus) reflected in lower reproductive success and survival, declining host population densities and are associated positively with population size. The study was conducted in 20 mainland and 27 island populations in central Finland during May–September in 1999. Faecal samples showed that 28% of 767 individuals were infected withEimeriaspp. The presence ofEimeriaparasites was higher in dense mainland populations than in sparsely populated islands. Eimerian infections increased during the course of the breeding season, probably as a result of the high infection rate of young individuals. Accordingly, the body masses of bank voles were negatively related to the presence ofEimeriaspp. Reproductive output, as measured by the breeding probability of females and litter size, was not associated with the presence of eimerian infection. Interestingly, the body condition of the infected mothers appeared to be low. Moreover, mother's body condition was the single most important variable studied that showed a positive correlation to pup's body condition at birth. On small islands ([les ]3·2 ha) that were comprehensively trapped, the mean number ofEimeriaspp. in the bank vole population was negatively related to density changes of the bank vole population during the study. Our data are consistent with the idea that infection with coccidian parasites may be one of the factors responsible for declining host populations in small, isolated populations.
Income Poverty, Deprivation and Exclusion: A Comparative Study of Australia and Britain
Authors: SAUNDERS PETER , ADELMAN LAURA
Published: September 2006

Poverty research has a long history in both Australia and Britain, but its influence on policy remains subject to political priorities and ideology. This can partly be explained by the limitations of defining poverty as low income and measuring it using an income poverty line. This article examines two national data sets that allow the income poverty profile to be compared with, and enriched by, the incidence of deprivation and social exclusion, measured using data that directly reflect experience. Although a degree of care must be applied when interpreting these new indicators within and between countries, a validated poverty measure is developed that reflects both low income and the experience of deprivation and exclusion. When results for the two countries are compared, they reveal stark differences between the alternative indicators. Britain has the higher income poverty rate and, although the incidence of both deprivation and exclusion are higher in Australia, Britain still has more validated poverty. The distributional profiles of deprivation and exclusion are shown to be very different in the two countries. These differences are explained by the very low incomes of low-income households in Britain, relative to other British households and relative to their Australian counterparts. Despite these differences, the results indicate that the same three groups face the greatest risk in both countries: lone parents, single working-age people and large (couple) families.
Usurping Social Policy: Neoliberalism and Economic Governance in Hungary*
Authors: PHILLIPS RICHARD , HENDERSON JEFFREY , ANDOR LASZLO , HULME DAVID
Published: September 2006

This paper takes issue with arguments emanating from the global social policy literature that neoliberal policy agendas have been largely a consequence of the interplay of international agencies with indigenous reform interests. While relevant, such arguments grasp only part of the story of social policy change. By means of a case study of Hungary between 1990 and 2002, this article emphasises the role played by the bureaucratic reconstitution of the state and changing forms of national economic governance in the explanation of social policy change. We show how the bureaucratic redesign of the Hungarian state generated a ‘finance-driven’ form of economic governance with the state bureaucracy reconfigured around the fiscal control of the Finance Ministry. These changes had significant implications, not simply for social expenditure, but for the intellectual nature and bureaucratic space for social policy-making. Whereas critiques of neoliberal social policy reform tend to focus on the ideological nature of the projects, this analysis highlights the need to develop visions of, and arguments for, an alternative to the finance-driven forms of economic governance that have become the de facto bureaucratic archetype for re-designing welfare states.
Social Policy Digest Online
Authors: Bennett Fran , Jones Ken
Published: September 2006

The Social Policy Digest went online in the summer of 2003. This means that the Digest, which used to be printed as part of the Journal of Social Policy, is now only available via the web.
Syncope in the older person: a review
Authors: Nath Samiran , Kenny Rose Anne
Published: September 2006

‘Syncope’ is derived from the Greek words ‘syn’ (meaning ‘together’) and ‘koptein’ (meaning ‘cut’). It is a syndrome characterized by transient loss of consciousness resulting from temporary and self-limited cerebral hypoperfusion, most often the result of systemic hypotension.
Performance Measurement in Social Care: A Comparison of Efficiency Measurement Methods
Authors: Clarkson Paul , Challis David
Published: September 2006

Performance measurement in social care is now considerably more advanced than previously. However, measurement is criticised on the basis of its presentation as neutral when, in the UK, it is part of the government's regulatory regime. However, measurement is important, especially when alternative methods may bring about different rankings of authorities to those endorsed by the recent system. This paper explores this issue through analyses of cost efficiency in English social services authorities. It concludes that the picture of authorities' performance depends on the method chosen which, it is argued, should stem from the stated aims of performance monitoring.
Choice or Chance – Late Retirement in Finland
Authors: Gould Raija
Published: September 2006

The Finnish pension reform of 2005 introduced the concept of a flexible retirement age. Drawing upon a longitudinal study of older Finnish employees, this article examines the extent to which individual propensity to delay retirement is influenced by choice or by chance, and examines the effects of the interplay between chances and choices in affecting longevity of employment. The results suggest that the flexibility in the organisation of the end of the working life is biased towards the better off. They also show that the interplay of choice and chance in the retirement process is firmly tied to the existing age-arrangements and economic trends. The conclusions examine the implication of these findings for divergent routes towards late retirement.
Getting People Back into Work: The Experience of Jobcentre Plus
Authors: Pendleton Nigel
Published: September 2006

This article is a contribution by a Jobcentre practitioner. The focus is first upon the context for government policies. The policies themselves are next outlined, and some problematic issues are then considered. The author's two case studies are based upon personal experience, and point up the importance of local initiatives within the national framework. Other key aspects include assessing and meeting individuals' needs, whether among the younger or older out-of-work; encouraging older persons to change expectations about themselves; and a measure of age diversity in training provision.
The Information, Advice and Guidance Needs of Older Workers
Authors: Mitton Lavinia , Hull Cathy
Published: September 2006

This article reviews the research on Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) services for older workers in England. It sets out the arguments for targeting IAG services at older people in the context of extended working lives. It reviews the evidence on how to provide services which meet the specific needs of older workers, whilst recognising the diversity of the 50+ age group, and provides a case study of an age-sensitive IAG project. It concludes that demand for IAG from older workers needs to be stimulated and that the role of IAG in helping older adults to work and learn deserves greater recognition.
Older Workers: Learning from Three International Experiences
Authors: Riach Kathleen
Published: September 2006

The contributions in this issue serve as a timely reminder of the importance of choice and autonomy in later working life. As the UK embarks on legislation prohibiting age discrimination, this paper discusses international lessons which can be drawn from older worker experience and related policy in Japan, Australia and the United States. By exploring the integral role of social and cultural norms in the development of pension, retirement and anti-discrimination reform, it emphasizes the importance of taking a holistic approach to older worker opportunity which ensures that practice reflects the intentions behind policy.
Entering the Retirement Zone: How Much Choice do Individuals Have?
Authors: Vickerstaff Sarah
Published: September 2006

Traditionally the factors affecting retirement are correlated with individual difference variables such as level of income, health issues and caring responsibilities. Studies have shown how these factors interact to predict the individual retirement process. However, the demand-side factors which structure opportunities for older workers have been somewhat less studied. This paper explores the employer role in retirement. By investigating the experience of employees and retirees from three organisations this article demonstrates that the employing organisation's policies and practices are key to understanding retirement transitions. In the conclusion the impact of forthcoming age discrimination legislation is considered.