bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural value, consumption value, and global brand image: A cross‐national study
Authors: Park Hye‐Jung , Rabolt Nancy J.
Published: July 2009

In expanding their market to the global level with clear and consistent global brand images across nations, marketers are ever confronting the issue of how to deal with different cultural values. Cultural value is identified as an influential factor on brand image and is widely accepted as one of the crucial concepts in understanding consumer consumption value, which determines choices of consuming everyday products and services. Most firms endeavoring to establish and maintain consistent global brand images, however, adopt a standardized brand image strategy that usually does not consider individual target markets” characteristics, including the concepts of cultural value and consumption value. This study developed a conceptual framework which incorporated cultural value not only as a direct antecedent of brand image, but also as an indirect antecedent of brand image through consumption value, and empirically tested it using the category of apparel. Following this framework, this study hypothesized the differences in brand image, cultural value, and consumption value between the U.S. and South Korea. Data were gathered through surveying university students residing in the San Francisco and Seoul metropolitan areas using a convenience sampling method. A total of 329 completed questionnaires were used in factor analysis, discriminant analysis, and structural equation modeling. The results provide insights into standardized brand image strategies and suggest some implementable tools that might prove effective in both countries. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rapid Formation of Acrylated Microstructures by Microwave‐Induced Thermal Crosslinking
Authors: Lee Seung Hwan , Lee Won Gu , Chung Bong Geun , Park Jae Hong , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: July 2009

We present a rapid and highly efficient method to form microstructure of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐based acrylates by microwave‐induced thermal crosslinking. PEG‐based polymeric microstructures such as polymer microarrays and microwells were fabricated on 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (TMSPMA)‐coated glass slides that were placed on top of a silicon wafer. In comparison to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation curing, microwave‐induced thermal crosslinking could be completed within 10 s, without thermal degradation or oxygen inhibition in the presence of ambient oxygen. Furthermore, the activation of surviving free radical impurities by microwave‐induced heating enabled crosslinking even without an exogenous radical initiator (e.g., 2,2′‐azosisobutyronitrile (AIBN)). This approach can be beneficial for fabricating various PEG‐based microstructures for high‐throughput screening assays, cell‐based biosensors, and biomedical microdevices.

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Aspects of food processing and its effect on allergen structure
Authors: Paschke Angelika
Published: July 2009

The article summarizes current physical and chemical methods in food processing as storage, preparation, separation, isolation or purification and thermal application on the one hand as well as enzymatic treatment on the other and their impact on the properties of food proteins. Novel methods of food processing like high pressure, electric field application or irradiation and their impact on food allergens are presented. The EU project REDALL (Reduced Allergenicity of Processed Foods, Containing Animal Allergens: QLK1‐CT‐2002‐02687) showed that by a combination of enzyme and heat treatment the allergic potential of hen's egg decreased about 100 fold. Clinical reactions do not appear anymore. An AiF‐FV 12024 N project worked with fruits like mango, lychee and apple. Processed mango and lychee had no change in allergenic potential during heating while e. g. canning. Apple almost lost its allergenic potential after pasteurization in juice production.
Cytotoxicity of Maillard reaction products determined with a peptide spot library
Authors: Muscat Sonja , Pischetsrieder Monika , Maczurek Annette , Rothemund, Sven , Münch Gerald
Published: July 2009

The reaction of reactive carbonyl compounds (RCCs) with lysine and arginine (Maillard reaction) is a common modification of proteins in thermally processed foods. In this study, the toxicity of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) formed from defined amino acids or dipeptides (bound to a cellulose membrane) with ribose, glycerinaldehyde or methylglyoxal was investigated. Murine RAW 264.7 macrophages were cultivated on the cellulose membrane and the effect of MRPs on cell viability was determined. The toxicity of MRPs was dependent on the RCC used and increased in the order of ribose < glycerinaldehyde < methylglyoxal. The dipeptides were more cytotoxic than the amino acids, with Lys–Lys MRPs being the most toxic of all tested MRPs. Cell numbers did not fall below the starting point, indicating that the MRPs rather inhibited proliferation than actually caused cell death. To develop an assay, in which whole membranes with multiple peptide spots could be tested simultaneously, we measured cell numbers on larger cellulose membranes using image analysis of the intracellularly formed formazan crystals. Although this method was technically feasable, it appears that uneven cell attachment on the membrane would require a way to detemine starting cell number by a non‐destructive assay to yield more robust data.
In vivo MR elastography of the prostate gland using a transurethral actuator
Authors: Chopra Rajiv , Arani Arvin , Huang Yuexi , Musquera Mireía , Wachsmuth Jeff , Bronskill Michael , Plewes Donald
Published: July 2009

Conventional approaches for MR elastography (MRE) using surface drivers have difficulty achieving sufficient shear wave propagation in the prostate gland due to attenuation. In this study we evaluate the feasibility of generating shear wave propagation in the prostate gland using a transurethral device. A novel transurethral actuator design is proposed, and the performance of this device was evaluated in gelatin phantoms and in a canine prostate gland. All MRI was performed on a 1.5T MR imager using a conventional gradient‐echo MRE sequence. A piezoceramic actuator was used to vibrate the transurethral device along its length. Shear wave propagation was measured transverse and parallel to the rod at frequencies between 100 and 250 Hz in phantoms and in the prostate gland. The shear wave propagation was cylindrical, and uniform along the entire length of the rod in the gel experiments. The feasibility of transurethral MRE was demonstrated in vivo in a canine model, and shear wave propagation was observed in the prostate gland as well as along the rod. These experiments demonstrate the technical feasibility of transurethral MRE in vivo. Further development of this technique is warranted. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of magnetization transfer effects in myocardial tissue using balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) cine MRI
Authors: Weber Oliver M. , Speier Peter , Scheffler Klaus , Bieri Oliver
Published: July 2009

Magnetization transfer imaging (MTI) by means of MRI exploits the mobility of water molecules in tissue and offers an alternative contrast mechanism beyond the more commonly used mechanisms based on relaxation times. A cardiac MTI method was implemented on a commercially available 1.5 T MR imager. It is based on the acquisition of two sets of cardiac‐triggered cine balanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP) images with different levels of RF power deposition. Reduction of RF power was achieved by lengthening the RF excitation pulses of a cine bSSFP sequence from 0.24 ms to 1.7 ms, while keeping the flip angle constant. Normal volunteers and patients with acute myocardial infarcts were imaged in short and long axis views. Normal myocardium showed an MT ratio (MTR) of 33.0 ± 3.3%. In acute myocardial infarct, MTR was reduced to 24.5 ± 9.2% (P < 0.04), most likely caused by an increase in water content due to edema. The method thus allows detection of acute myocardial infarct without the administration of contrast agents. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Radio frequency heating at 9.4T (400.2 MHz): In vivo thermoregulatory temperature response in swine
Authors: Shrivastava Devashish , Hanson Timothy , Kulesa Jeramy , DelaBarre Lance , Iaizzo Paul , Vaughan J. Thomas
Published: July 2009

In vivo thermoregulatory temperature response to radio frequency (RF) heating at 9.4T was studied by measuring temperatures in nine anesthetized swine. Temperatures were measured in the scalp, brain, and rectum. The RF energy was deposited using a four‐loop head coil tuned to 400.2 MHz. Sham RF was delivered to three swine to understand the thermal effects of anesthesia (animal weight = 54.16 kg, SD = 3.08 kg). Continuous wave (CW) RF energy was delivered to the other six animals for 2.5–3.4 h (animal weight = 74.01 ± 26.0 kg, heating duration = 3.05 ± 0.29 h). The whole‐head specific absorption rate (SAR) varied between 2.71 W/kg and 3.20 W/kg (SAR = 2.93 ± 0.18 W/kg). Anesthesia caused the brain and rectal temperatures to drop linearly. Altered thermoregulatory response was detected by comparing the difference in the temperature slopes before and after the RF delivery from zero. RF heating statistically significantly altered the rate of cooling down of the animal. The temperature slope changes correlated well with the RF energy per unit head weight and heating duration, and the maximum rectal temperature change during heating in heated animals. The temperature slope changes did not correlate well to the whole‐head average SARs. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reliable two‐dimensional phase unwrapping method using region growing and local linear estimation
Authors: Zhou Kun , Zaitsev Maxim , Bao Shanglian
Published: July 2009

In MRI, phase maps can provide useful information about parameters such as field inhomogeneity, velocity of blood flow, and the chemical shift between water and fat. As phase is defined in the (−π,π] range, however, phase wraps often occur, which complicates image analysis and interpretation. This work presents a two‐dimensional phase unwrapping algorithm that uses quality‐guided region growing and local linear estimation. The quality map employs the variance of the second‐order partial derivatives of the phase as the quality criterion. Phase information from unwrapped neighboring pixels is used to predict the correct phase of the current pixel using a linear regression method. The algorithm was tested on both simulated and real data, and is shown to successfully unwrap phase images that are corrupted by noise and have rapidly changing phase. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elastoplastic damage modeling of desaturation and resaturation in argillites
Authors: Jia Y. , Bian H. B. , Su K. , Kondo D. , Shao J. F.
Published: July 2009

The development of a coupled elastoplastic damage constitutive model for argillites is presented. Emphasis is put on the description of post‐failure and coupled hydromechanical behavior of argillites during the desaturation/resaturation processes. A short summary of experimental investigations is given in the first part, which shows an important plastic deformation coupled with damage and a significant influence of water content on the mechanical behavior of argillites. Based on the framework of poroplasticity and continuum damage mechanics, a general constitutive model is proposed for the poromechanical behavior of argillites in both saturated and unsaturated conditions. Main features observed in experiments are taken into account, in particular the elastic degradation due to microcracks, residual strength, coupling between plastic deformation and induced damage, influence of water content on plastic flow, variation of permeability induced by microcracks as well as the deformation generated in the desaturation/resaturation processes. The performance of the model is examined by comparing numerical simulations with test data in representative load paths. Finally, the model is applied to hydromechanical coupling study of four time‐dependent tests subjected to a step change in relative humidity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Borehole failure analysis in a sandstone under anisotropic stresses
Authors: Papamichos Euripides
Published: July 2009

Borehole failure under anisotropic stresses in a sandstone is analyze numerically for various borehole sizes using a nonlinear elastic–plastic constitutive model for a Cosserat continuum. Borehole failure is identified as macroscopic failure of the borehole through the development of shear bands and breakouts. The results compare well both qualitatively and quantitatively with experimental results from polyaxial tests on Red Wildmoor sandstone. They show that the hole size effect of the borehole failure strength is independent of the far‐field stress anisotropy and follows a ⅖ power law of the hole size. A similar scale effect equation with a ⅘ power law is proposed for the scale effect of the maximum plastic shear strain at failure. This equation can be useful for better predicting hole‐size‐dependent failure with standard codes based on classical continua. The effect of stress anisotropy on the borehole failure stress is found to be independent of the hole size. The failure stress decreases linearly to 40% as the stress anisotropy increases. However, the maximum plastic shear strain at failure is stress anisotropy independent and therefore the critical plastic shear strain for failure is only hole‐size dependent. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dispelling the myths about major donor fundraising
Authors: Cluff Angela
Published: July 2009

This paper explores some common weaknesses that occur when charities undertake major donor initiatives. It also explodes some common ‘myths’ that can stifle an organisation's major donor work. The basis for identifying these weaknesses and myths comprises of two sources: some original management centre (=mc) research among a number of leading major donor fundraising organisations, and our practical consulting experience over the last 3 years with not‐for‐profit fundraisers running major campaigns in UK, USA and Australia. In the paper, we also explore how by confronting these weaknesses and dispelling the myths within your organisation, you too can develop a successful major donor income stream. These lessons are now being applied in our consulting work in the UK, USA and South America, with some significant success. We believe they hold important general lessons for anyone running major donor‐led capital campaigns.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Community fundraising 2.0—the future of fundraising in a networked society?
Authors: Miller Bryan
Published: July 2009

Over recent years, individual donor fundraisers worldwide have seen the beginnings of a dramatic shift in the way that consumers react to mass fundraising communications, resulting in many of the ‘interruptive’ direct marketing approaches on which individual donor fundraising programmes are traditionally reliant delivering worse and worse returns. This paper examines how the growth of a networked society of increasingly sophisticated and independently informed consumers has contributed to this shift; illustrates how the rise of Web 2.0 has accelerated its impact and considers how individual donor fundraising may have to evolve to more effectively respond to this in the future.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robust delay‐range‐dependent stabilization for Markovian jump systems with mode‐dependent time delays and nonlinearities
Authors: Wang Guoliang , Zhang Qingling , Sreeram Victor
Published: July 2009

This paper discusses the robust stabilization problem for a class of Markovian jump systems with nonlinear disturbances and time delays, which are time‐varying in intervals and depend on system mode. By exploiting a new Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, which takes into account the range of delay and by making use of novel techniques, mean‐square exponential stability result is proposed. Based on the obtained stability condition, a sufficient condition for state feedback controller, which stabilizes system and maximizes the bound on nonlinear perturbations is derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities involving a convex optimization. Finally, illustrative examples are presented to show the benefits and effectiveness of the proposed approaches. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Medizinische Chemie der Thrombozytenaggregationshemmer. Verschiedene Therapieoptionen
Authors: Zettl Heiko , Schubert‐Zsilavecz Manfred
Published: July 2009

Arterielle Thrombosen gelten als Auslöser der meisten Herzinfarkte und von ca. 80 % der Schlaganfälle. Damit sind sie die häufigste Todesursache in den Industrienationen. Zur Prophylaxe von akuten arteriellen Thromboembolien werden in erster Linie Thrombozytenaggregationshemmer eingesetzt. Diese repräsentieren ein breites Spektrum verschiedener Arzneistoffklassen, beginnend mit der Acetylsalicylsäure bis hin zu monoklonalen Antikörpern.
Thrombozytenaggregationshemmer zur peroralen Anwendung. Technologische und biopharmazeutische Aspekte
Authors: Breitkreutz Jörg
Published: July 2009

Thrombozytenaggregationshemmer zur peroralen Anwendung werden überwiegend als schnell freisetzende Tabletten oder Filmtabletten verabreicht. Es wird aber auch ein hochkomplexes Retardpräparat mit magensaftresistenter Minitablette und Diffusionpellets in einer Hartgelatinekapsel angeboten. Die Unterschiede zwischen den Produkten sind für den Laien oft kaum erkennbar. Zur Protektion der Magenschleimhaut werden bestimmte Acetylsalicylsäuretabletten mit funktionellen Polymerfilmen überzogen. In einigen Tabletten sind Hilfsstoffe enthalten, die zu Unverträglichkeitsreaktionen bei einigen Patienten führen können. Beim Clopidogrel werden aus patent‐ und zulassungsrechtlichen Gründen unterschiedliche Salzformen als wirksamer Bestandteil verwendet. Die Produkte sind wirksam und unbedenklich. Der endgültige Nachweis der Bioäquivalenz steht für die Fachöffentlichkeit noch aus, was in der schwierigen Analytik und der komplexen Pharmakokinetik des Clopidogrels und seiner Metaboliten begründet liegt.
Resistenz gegenüber ASS und Clopidogrel. Diagnostik, Ursachen, Relevanz eines komplexen Phänomens
Authors: Mani Helen , Lindhoff‐Last Edelgard
Published: July 2009

Die Therapie mit ASS oder Clopidogrel variiert stark. Mit Hilfe verschiedener Thrombozytenfunktionstests konnte gezeigt werden, dass Subgruppen von Patienten unter ASS‐ und/oder Clopidogrel‐Therapie den erwarteten plättchenhemmenden Effekt vermissen lassen. In monozentrischen Studien korrelierte die laborchemische Non‐Response mit dem nachfolgenden Auftreten vaskulärer Ereignisse.

Der Mechanismus, welcher einer Resistenz zugrunde liegt, konnte bis zum heutigen Zeitpunkt noch nicht erfasst werden und scheint multifaktoriell zu sein. Die Non‐Compliance ist möglicherweise der Hauptgrund für eine ASS‐Non‐Response. Pharmakokinetische und genetische Varianten scheinen für die unterschiedliche Aktivität der Cytochrom‐P450‐Oxygenasen CYP3A4 und CYP2C19, die für die Bildung des aktiven Clopidogrel‐Metaboliten entscheidend sind, für ein mögliches Versagen der Clopidogrel‐Therapie verantwortlich.

Erste Ergebnisse von multizentrischen Studien zeigen, dass eine gesteigerte Thrombozyteninhibierung durch individuelle Veränderung der antithrombozytären Therapie bei laborchemisch nachgewiesener Non‐Response zu einer Prognoseverbesserung führt.

Es bedarf allerdings noch standardisierter Messmethoden mit einer global einheitlichen Definition einer ASS‐ bzw. Clopidogrel‐Resistenz, denn die Identifikation von Patienten mit inadäquatem Ansprechen auf eine ASS‐ oder Clopidogrel‐Therapie scheint von äußerster Wichtigkeit.
Perioperative Strategie bei ASS/Clopidogrel. Blutungs‐ und thromboembolisches Risiko
Authors: Koscielny Jürgen
Published: July 2009

Eine perioperative Karenz der ASS/Clopidogrel‐Medikation in der Phase der noch nicht endothelialisierten Stents erhöht signifikant das Risiko einer Stentthrombose mit einem plötzlichen Herztod, ihre Fortführung das einer klinisch relevanten Blutung im Operationsgebiet. Bei hohem Thromboserisiko sollten beide Medikamente, zumindest aber Acetylsalicylsäure, bis zum Operationstag gegeben werden. Eine Regionalanästhesie ist fast immer kontraindiziert.

Unbeantwortet bleibt, welches perioperative hämostaseologisches Management zu erfolgen hat, wenn z.B. schwere perioperative Blutungen bei ASS/Clopidogrel‐Medikation auftreten oder wenn z.B. ein Patient eine ASS‐Resistenz bei perioperativer Monotherapie mit ASS aufweist oder ob eine perioperative Umstellung (“Bridging”) einer ASS/Clopidogrel‐Medikation durch intravenös applizierbare Glykoprotein‐IIb/IIIa‐Antagonisten mit kurzer Halbwertszeit, z.B. Eptifibatide, als alternative Plättchenhemmung klinisch sicher ist.
Clopidogrel und die Pharmakokinetik. Ein aktuelles Problem für Regulatoren
Authors: Zündorf Ilse , Dingermann Theo
Published: July 2009

Der Thrombozytenaggregationshemmer Clopidogrel (Iscover®, Plavix®) ist ein Prodrug, das u.a. durch CYP2C19 in seinen aktiven Metaboliten umgewandelt wird. Da CYP2C19 zu den hoch polymorphen Cytochrom‐P450‐Enzymen gehört, war eigentlich zu erwarten, dass auf kurz oder lang individuelle Probleme im Zusammenhang mit einer Clopidogrel‐Therapie auftreten würden. Diese Erwartungen haben sich mehr und mehr bestätigt, so dass sich die FDA veranlasst sah, Herstellerfirmen aufzufordern, den Einfluss bestimmter genetischer Konstellationen näher zu untersuchen – und dies nicht nur im Bezug auf Clopidogrel alleine, sondern auch im Kontext einer häufig verordneten Kombinationstherapie mit dem Protonenpumpeninhibitor Omeprazol.
Initial testing (stage 1) of lapatinib by the pediatric preclinical testing program
Authors: Gorlick Richard , Kolb E. Anders , Houghton Peter J. , Morton Christopher L. , Phelps Doris , Schaiquevich Paula , Stewart Clinton , Keir Stephen T. , Lock Richard , Carol Hernan , Reynolds C. Patrick , Maris John M. , Wu Jianrong , Smith Malcolm A.
Published: July 2009

Background

Lapatinib is a small molecule reversible tyrosine kinase inhibitor of EGFR and ErbB2 that shows in vitro and in vivo activity against a range of EGFR and ErbB2‐dependent adult cancer cell lines and that has clinical efficacy against ErbB2‐overexpressing breast cancer.

Methods

Lapatinib was tested against the cell lines of the PPTP in vitro panel at concentrations ranging from 1.0 nM to 10.0 µM. Lapatinib was tested against the xenografts of the PPTP in vivo panels using a twice‐daily oral administration schedule for 6 weeks (5 days on, 2 days off) at a dose of 160 mg/kg (320 mg/kg/day). Lapatinib pharmacokinetic parameters were determined in scid−/− mice.

Results

The median IC50 value for lapatinib against the entire PPTP cell line panel was 6.84 µM (range, 2.08 to >10.0 µM). Lapatinib was well tolerated in vivo, with toxicity in only 1.5% of the treated animals. Lapatinib induced significant differences in EFS distribution compared to controls in 1 of 41 xenografts tested. No objective responses were observed in any of the solid tumor panels or in the ALL panel. Lapatinib systemic exposure was consistent with previously observed values.

Conclusions

Lapatinib has little activity against the xenografts of the PPTP's in vivo panel, and its in vitro activity occurs at concentrations above those associated with specific EGFR/ErbB2 inhibition. These results likely reflect lack of ErbB2 overexpression in the models studied and suggest that adult and pediatric cancers may fundamentally differ in the applicability of EGFR family members as therapeutic targets. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:594–598. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in utilisation of anticholinergic drugs after initiation of cholinesterase inhibitors
Authors: Robinson M , Rowett D , Leverton A , Mabbott V
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Cholinesterase Inhibitors (CEIs) have been subsidised in Australia since February 2001 for cognitive decline associated with mild to moderate Alzheimer disease. The number of people with Alzheimer Disease is expected to increase, with a continuing increase in the number of people receiving CEI's. Many anticholinergic drugs (ACDs) are also prescribed to people receiving CEIs and concerns about the impact of the interaction have been raised. The aim of this study was to describe co‐prescribing of a group of important ACDs in patients initiating treatment with CEIs in Australia.

Methods

Pharmacy claim data for Australia (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) was examined for the period 1 April to 30 June 2006. All selected prescriptions supplied for patients receiving their first supply of any CEIs (initiators) were extracted for 14 weeks prior to and post the first date of supply. The numbers of initiating people co‐administering CEIs and ACDs was examined.

Results

5797 persons received their first prescription for CEIs between 1 April and 30 June 2006. Thirty‐two per cent of these also received prescriptions for at least one ACD. There was a statistically significant increase in the number of initiators receiving an ACD. The significant increase was in patients receiving atypical antipsychotics. There was a trend towards an increase in patients receiving oxybutynin.

Conclusions

Extent of co‐administration of ACDs and CEIs is similar to other international studies however the most significant increase is seen in patients receiving atypical antipsychotics. The implications of adding atypical antipsychotics are potential for worsening disease, increasing adverse effects and increased health resource utilisation in this vulnerable group. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trends and determinants of adequate gastroprotection in patients chronically using NSAIDs
Authors: Helsper Charles W. , Smeets Hugo M. , Numans Mattijs E. , Knol Mirjam J. , Hoes Arno W. , de Wit Niek J.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To identify determinants and trends of gastroprotection in patients chronically using NSAIDs.

Methods

Design: retrospective cohort study. Data source: Agis Health Database (AHD) containing annual prescription records of approximately 1.5 million patients. Patients: All patients using more than 180 daily defined doses (DDD) annually, of any NSAID from 2001 to 2007. Main outcome measures: prevalence of NSAID use, adequate prescription of gastroprotective drugs (PPI, misoprostol or COX‐2 inhibitor use), determinants of adequate gastroprotection.

Results

The percentage of patients chronically using NSAIDs rose from 7.3% of the total NSAIDs users in 2001 to 7.5% in 2007. The percentage of patients on NSAIDs receiving adequate gastroprotective medication in line with actual guidelines increased from 39.6% in 2001 to 69.9% in 2007. Age over 70, co‐prescription of SSRI, coumarine and steroids and arthritis are the main clinical factors predicting adequate prescription.

Conclusions

The prevalence of NSAID prescription and the risk of gastric complications is increasing steadily. Although the number of patients receiving gastroprotective medication is also increasing, over 30% of the patients at risk for GI complications were left unprotected in 2007. In order to improve protection rates in patients using NSAIDs and to decrease NSAID related hospital admissions in the future, the implementation of gastroprotection guidelines needs to be improved. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hospital pharmacists' activities and attitudes regarding the Thai safety monitoring program for new drugs
Authors: Jarernsiripornkul N. , Krska J. , Pongmanachai M. , Nasritha N.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Thai hospital pharmacists concerning the safety monitoring programme and reporting of adverse drug reactions to the Thai Food and Drug Administration.

Methods

Postal questionnaires distributed to 414 Thai hospitals, including all larger hospitals and a proportion of small community hospitals, for completion by the pharmacist responsible for ADR reporting to the Thai FDA.

Results

The response rate was 63.0% (n = 262) with most respondents (190; 72.8%) being directly responsible for ADR reporting. Most hospitals (251; 96.5%) designated at least one pharmacist as responsible for ADR reporting, but only 164 (62.8%) respondents were aware of the SMP. Only 15 respondents out of the 56 working in hospitals using new drugs had established reporting via the SMP. Uncertainty in ascribing causality, lack of co‐operation between health professionals and lack of staff were identified as barriers to reporting. Most respondents agreed that enhanced co‐operation and improvements needed in hospital systems were required. Less than half agreed that the reporting system was simple and the majority agreed that changes were required to the SMP reporting mechanisms.

Conclusions

Thai hospital pharmacists have positive attitudes towards reporting of ADRs, but not all are aware of the SMP for new drugs. Few hospitals use new drugs and even less are involved in active reporting of suspected ADRs via the SMP. To increase reporting rates, potential difficulties with the organization of reporting via the SMP and the potential role of hospital pharmacists in ADR identification should be investigated further. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of redox initiators for free radical frontal polymerization
Authors: Yu Huan , Fang Yuan , Chen Li , Chen Su
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: The reaction temperature for frontal polymerization (FP) initiated by redox initiators can be greatly decreased compared with FP initiated by peroxide initiator and disulfide initiator. We report the synthesis of poly(hydroxyethyl acrylate)s via free radical FP using benzoyl peroxide (BPO)/N,N‐dimethylaniline (DMA) and ammonium persulfate (APS)/N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA) couples as redox initiators at ambient pressure.

RESULTS: The results show that unlike the phenomenon of bubbles and ‘fingers’ when using BPO alone, a self‐sustaining and stable front can be obtained when the [DMA]/[BPO] ratio is higher than 1 (mol/mol). A slight increase of the DMA (or TMEDA) reductant concentration causes a marked decrease of front temperature to 53 °C (or 61 °C).

CONCLUSION: We investigated the effects of the ratio of the oxidant to the reductant and the initiator and monomer concentrations on certain parameters of FP: formation of bubbles, front velocity and front temperature. This opens the way to the potential development of FP using more appropriate monomers with low boiling points. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Schizotypy and mental health in the general population: A pilot study
Authors: Goulding Anneli , Ödéhn Nils
Published: July 2009

An understanding of schizotypy and its relation to mental health has several important implications for the prevention, treatment and understanding of psychosis‐spectrum disorders. Previous studies have shown the possibility that schizotypy is associated to mental health as well as psychopathology. This pilot study investigated the relation between schizotypy and mental health in a random sample from the general Swedish population (n = 91). A simultaneous multiple regression analysis with schizotypy factors as predictors of mental health showed that disorganized and positive schizotypy were significant predictors of mental health. Both factors had a linear negative relation to mental health, but positive schizotypy also had a curvilinear relation so that both high and low levels of positive schizotypy were associated with mental health. Cluster analyses indicated the presence of four schizotypy profile groups characterized by high positive schizotypy, high negative schizotypy, high disorganized schizotypy and low schizotypy respectively. The low schizotypy group had significantly better mental health compared to the disorganized schizotypy group. The disorganized schizotypy factor was the only factor clearly associated with mental ill health. These results indicate the presence of schizotypal traits in the general population and also questions schizotypy models that view schizotypal traits as necessarily associated with psychopathology. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
σ‐ and π‐electron contributions to the substituent effect: natural population analysis
Authors: Ozimiński Wojciech P. , Dobrowolski Jan C.
Published: July 2009

Two independent σ‐ and π‐ substituent effect descriptors, sEDA and pEDA, were constructed using the Natural Population Analysis (NPA) approach. The descriptors are based on parameters of 32 monosubstituted benzene molecules calculated at the B3LYP/6‐31G** level which is easily applicable to large molecular systems. The sEDA and pEDA descriptors have a clear physical meaning—they show to what extent the σ and π electrons are donated or withdrawn by the substituent from the substituted system. The descriptors were successfully tested to be independent of either of the applicable theoretical methods (DFT or MP2), basis set (6‐31G** or cc‐pVTZ), and solvent presence. We also demonstrated that the sEDA descriptor described equally well methane derivatives, whereas the pEDA descriptor explained behavior of ethene derivatives. Moreover, the two descriptors work out well for as different molecular systems as triazoles. A comparison of the sEDA and pEDA descriptors with the selected well‐known substituent effect scales shows that the sEDA descriptor correlates well (R = 0.961) with the Boyd & Boyd/Boyd– Edgecombe χ descriptor and that so does also the pEDA descriptor (R = 0.943) with the Taft–Topsom σR‐ resonance constant. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Redox proteomics identification of 4‐hydroxynonenal‐modified brain proteins in Alzheimer's disease: Role of lipid peroxidation in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis
Authors: Perluigi Marzia , Sultana Rukhsana , Cenini Giovanna , Di Domenico Fabio , Memo Maurizio , Pierce William M. , Coccia Raffaella , Butterfield D. Allan
Published: July 2009

Numerous studies have shown that neuronal lipids are highly susceptible to oxidative stress including in those brain areas directly involved in the neurodegenerative process of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Lipid peroxidation directly damages membranes and also generates a number of secondary biologically active products (toxic aldehydes)that are capable of easily attacking lipids, proteins, and DNA. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated regionally increased brain lipid peroxidation in patients with AD; however, extensive studies on specific targets of lipid peroxidation‐induced damage are still missing. The present study represents a further step in understanding the relationship between oxidative modification of protein and neuronal death associated with AD. We used a proteomics approach to determine specific targets of lipid peroxidation in AD brain, both in hippocampus and inferior parietal lobule, by coupling immunochemical detection of 4‐hydroxynonenal‐bound proteins with 2‐D polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and MS analysis. We identified 4‐hydroxynonenal‐bound proteins in the hippocampus and inferior parietal lobule brain regions of subjects with AD. The identified proteins play different biological functions including energy metabolism, antioxidant system, and structural proteins, thus impairing multiple molecular pathways. Our results provide further evidence for the role of lipid peroxidation in the pathogenesis of AD.
Proteomic and functional characterization of the outer membrane vesicles from the gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Mullaney Erica , Brown Paul A. , Smith Sinead M. , Botting Catherine H. , Yamaoka Yoshio Y. , Terres Ana M. , Kelleher Dermot P. , Windle Henry J.
Published: July 2009

The gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori causes a spectrum of gastro‐duodenal diseases, which may be mediated in part by the outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) constitutively shed by the pathogen. We aimed to determine the proteome of H. pylori OMV to help evaluate the mechanisms whereby these structures confer their known immuno‐modulatory and cytotoxic activities to host cells, as such disease‐associated activities are also conferred by the bacterium from which the vesicles are derived. We also evaluated the effect of the OMV on gastric/colonic epithelial cells, duodenal explants and neutrophils. A proteomic analysis of the OMV proteins separated by SDS‐PAGE from two strains of H. pylori (J99 and NCTC 11637) was undertaken and 162 OMV‐associated proteins were identified in J99 and 91 in NCTC 11637 by LC‐MS/MS. The vesicles are rich in membrane proteins, porins, adhesins and several molecules known to modulate chemokine secretion, cell proliferation and other host cellular processes. Further, the OMVs are also vehicles for the carriage of the cytotoxin‐associated gene A cytotoxin in addition to the previously documented toxin, vacuolating cytotoxin. Taken together, it is evident from the proteome of H. pylori OMV that these structures are equipped with the molecules required to interact with host cells in a manner not dissimilar from the intact pathogen.
Isoform‐specific expression and characterization of 14‐3‐3 proteins in human glioma tissues discovered by stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture‐based proteomic analysis
Authors: Liang Shufang , Shen Guobo , Liu Qingping , Xu Yuhuan , Zhou Liangxue , Xiao Shiyin , Xu Zhizhong , Gong Fengming , You Chao , Wei Yuquan
Published: July 2009

Human 14‐3‐3 proteins have isoform‐specific expression and functions in different kinds of normal or tumor cells and tissues. However, the expression profiling of 14‐3‐3 proteins and isoform‐specific biological functions are unclear in human glioma so far. In our study, the expression levels and characterization of 14‐3‐3 isoforms in human glioma tissues were investigated by a sensitive, accurate stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture‐based quantitative proteomic strategy. As a result, except unexpressed 14‐3‐3σ, the other six isoforms, with different expression levels, were existed in glioma tissues and para‐cancerous brain tissues (PBTs). 14‐3‐3β and η were upregulated, whereas 14‐3‐3ζ was downregulated in glioma tissues compared with that in PBTs. And the other three isoforms 14‐3‐3ε, θ, and γ had similar expression levels in human glioma tissues and PBTs. Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis were both consistent with the quantitative proteomic data. The loss of expression of 14‐3‐3σ was further discovered due to DNA high methylation in its coding region in glioma by methylation‐specific PCR analysis. These results indicated that the four isoforms, including 14‐3‐3β, η, ζ, and σ, may play important roles in tumorigenesis of human glioma, which is probably used as potential biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for treatment of human gliomas in future.
Characterisation of flucloxacillin and 5‐hydroxymethyl flucloxacillin haptenated HSA in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Jenkins Rosalind E. , Meng Xiaoli , Elliott Victoria L. , Kitteringham Neil R. , Pirmohamed Munir , Park B. Kevin
Published: July 2009

Flucloxacillin is a synthetic penicillin used in the treatment of Staphylococcal infections. Adverse reactions to the drug are believed to arise through covalent modification of proteins, with tissue damage occurring secondary to an immune reaction. Serum proteins have been shown by adduct‐specific antibodies to be modified by flucloxacillin, but the nature and sites of modification have not been characterised. Here, in vitro studies on HSA have shown by MS that the modification of protein lysine residues occurs in a dose‐, time‐ and site‐dependent manner. Affinity, cation exchange and reversed phase chromatography prior to MS revealed in vivo modification of HSA with flucloxacillin in tolerant patients, with up to nine modified lysine residues being detected in each patient, and with modification of Lys190 and Lys212 being detected in 8/8 patients. It was also revealed for the first time that plasma proteins could be modified with the 5‐hydroxymethyl metabolite of flucloxacillin, and that essentially the same Lys residues were targeted by both the parent drug and its metabolite. This study provides a detailed characterisation of sites of chemical modification of an endogenous target and reveals candidate peptides for T‐cell and antibody assays of flucloxacillin hypersensitivity.
Integrative proteomics for the future US HUPO Fifth Annual Conference from genes to function 22‐25 February 2009, San Diego, CA, USA
Authors: Lehr Stefan , Meyer Helmut E.
Published: July 2009

This report reviews the 5th US HUPO annual conference which was held in San Diego, California, from 22th to 25th February, 2009. The major goal of this year's meeting was to discuss future prospects within the field of proteomics and to push it towards integration with other synergizing technologies. Each day's sessions were guided by three broad themes: The Interface of Proteomics and Genomics, Systems Medicine, and Protein Structure and Modifications. As a summary this meeting has shown, that integration of multiple disciplines and high performance proteomics is needed to meet the demands of future proteomics.
Hydrochloric acid tank explosion
Authors: Chandwadkar Chandrashekhar , Nasiri Ghodaratollah , Seyfzadeh Ali
Published: July 2009

Explosions in hydrogen chloride storage tanks are very rare. However, we have experienced one. The explosion was so powerful that the tank with a capacity 250 kL, 60% filled with 33% HCL, took off from the ground went up to 8–9 m high in air and landed around 50 m away. The contents of the tank sprayed all over the nearby area. Though the tank was surrounded by other plants and equipment, fortunately, it landed in a barren area. This averted loss of life and property that would have otherwise resulted. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2009
Prevention and mitigation of dust and hybrid mixture explosions
Authors: Amyotte Paul , Lindsay Matthew , Domaratzki Ruth , Marchand Neil , Di Benedetto Almerinda , Russo Paola
Published: July 2009

The results presented in this article focus on the importance of the prevention and mitigation of dust and hybrid mixture explosions. The main objective is to demonstrate the use of the inherent safety principle of moderation to achieve a significant reduction of the risk of explosions. Experiments and a companion modeling study were conducted with a test matrix composed of various size fractions of polyethylene powder together with concentrations of hydrocarbon gas (ethylene, hexane, and propane). The results quantitatively show the increased hazard posed by fine particle sizes of dust and the addition of flammable gases. There are clear implications for industry in terms of moderating the risk of an explosion.

Gas concentrations used in this work were all less than the lower flammability limit (LFL) of the particular chemical species and the ratio of gas concentration to LFL concentration was at least 75%. The enhancement of mixture reactivity brought about by a flammable gas admixture could therefore be correlated with the burning velocity of the gas.

This article describes how to predict KSt for hybrid mixtures and includes the concept of using propane as a surrogate for hexane. Additionally, it shows that the avoidance of both fine dust sizes and hybrid mixtures is a beneficial approach in the process industries to reduce the risk arising from the hazards posed by combustible dusts and their mixtures with flammable gases. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2010
Aromatic‐ring‐functionalised benzoxazinones in the system Oryza sativa–Echinochloa crus‐galli as biorational herbicide models
Authors: Macías Francisco A , Chinchilla Nuria , Varela Rosa M , Molinillo José MG , Marín David , de Siqueira Joao M
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Barnyardgrass, Echinochloa crus‐galli (L.) Beauv., is one of the most problematic weeds occurring in rice crops. Although efficient chemical control is provided by herbicides available on the market, resistant biotypes provoked by pressure selection have appeared in recent times. This emphasises the need for alternative treatments in which herbicidal compounds from a natural origin could be included.

RESULTS: A number of chemicals with a [2H]‐1,4‐benzoxazin‐3(4H)‐one (D‐DIBOA) skeleton were tested on this weed, and also in rice, in order to achieve an optimal lead for herbicide composition development by taking into consideration phytotoxic effects and selectivity on the weed. 6‐Cl‐D‐DIBOA causes the same effect as the commercial herbicide propanil at a concentration 15 times lower, while 6‐F‐D‐DIBOA causes this inhibition at a dose 30 times lower. The phytotoxicities caused by 8‐Cl‐D‐DIBOA (IC50 = 44 µM, R2 = 0.866) and 7,8‐diF‐D‐DIBOA (IC50 = 52 µM, R2 = 0.9067) are also remarkable. 8‐Cl‐D‐DIBOA was the compound that presented the highest selectivity on Echinochloa crus‐galli. The structural requirements for optimal phytotoxicity and selectivity were elucidated by means of QSAR methodology, considering electronic and steric factors. One of the most important descriptors influencing the bioactivity was the dipole moment modulus. This was successfully correlated by employing a second‐order polynomial model.

CONCLUSION: The in vitro phytotoxic profiles and selectivities shown for these chemicals make them truly promising candidates for higher‐level studies. 6F‐ and 6Cl‐D‐DIBOA, for their high phytotoxicities, and 8‐Cl‐D‐DIBOA, because of its high selectivity, were found to be the most interesting compounds from this point of view. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficacy of grain protectants against four psocid species on maize, rice and wheat
Authors: Athanassiou Christos G , Arthur Frank H , Throne James E
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Psocids are emerging pests in stored products, particularly in amylaceous commodities such as grains. Currently, their control is based on the use of fumigants and contact insecticides; however, newer data indicate that psocids are tolerant to insecticides used to control other stored‐grain species. This study evaluated the insecticides registered in the USA for use on stored maize, rice and wheat for control of the psocid species Lepinotus reticulatus, Liposcelis entomophila, L. bostrychophila and L. paeta. Mortality of exposed adult females was recorded after 7 and 14 days of exposure, while progeny production was assessed after 30 days of exposure.

RESULTS: On wheat and rice, chlorpyriphos‐methyl + deltamethrin was generally more effective against exposed parental adults than spinosad or pyrethrin, while pirimiphos‐methyl was more effective on maize than spinosad or pyrethrin. In most cases, progeny production was suppressed in the treated grains. Progeny production was consistently lowest on wheat and rice treated with chlorpyriphos‐methyl + deltamethrin and maize treated with pirimiphos‐methyl.

CONCLUSIONS: Chlorpyriphos‐methyl + deltamethrin and pirimiphos‐methyl were the most effective insecticides for all species and commodities. Conversely, efficacy of spinosad or pyrethrum was highly dependent on the psocid species and commodity. Published in 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.