bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parkinson’s Disease Caregiving: Implications for Care Management
Authors: Parrish Monique , Giunta Nancy , Adams Sara
Published: January 2005

The primary objective of this study was to identify the needs of caregivers of individuals with Parkinson’s disease within the context of the common functional, memory, and behavioral problems experienced by Parkinson’s patients. A second objective was to evaluate any differences between caregivers of Parkinson’s patients and caregivers of adults with other forms of cognitive impairment. Data used for this analysis were collected in 1999, by the 11 Caregiver Resource Centers that form California’s statewide Caregiver Resource Center system, as part of the uniform caregiver assessment process. Parkinson’s disease caregivers requested assistance with emotional support, respite, and behavior management. Compared with caregivers of non-Parkinson’s patients served by the CRC system, caregivers of Parkinson’s patients were primarily older, entered the CRC system later, and demonstrated increased depression and other health conditions.
Outcome Predictors for Three PTSD Treatments: Exposure Therapy, EMDR, and Relaxation Training
Authors: Taylor Steven
Published: January 2005

Several psychosocial treatments appear to be effective in treating posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, little is known about the predictors of treatment outcome. It is possible that some variables predict poor outcome for some treatments but not for other treatments. To investigate this issue, outcome predictors were investigated for three eight-session treatments: exposure therapy (entailing prolonged imaginal andin vivoexposure), relaxation training, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Sixty people with PTSD entered and 45 completed treatment. Treatments did not differ in attrition or perceived credibility. Exposure tended to be most effective, and EMDR and relaxation did not differ in efficacy. A number of clinical and cognitive variables were examined to identify predictors of treatment dropout as well as predictors of the likelihood that patients would be remitted from PTSD after treatment. These analyses were conducted by controlling for treatment condition. Low patient ratings of treatment credibility (assessed in session 2) predicted treatment dropout, regardless of treatment type. Severe reexperiencing symptoms (assessed prior to treatment) predicted poor outcome for relaxation training but not for the other therapies. These findings suggest that treatment outcome could be improved by improving treatment credibility. The findings also support the use of exposure therapy and, to a lesser extent, the use of EMDR in treating PTSD.
Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy of Combat-Related PTSD: A Case Study Using Psychophysiological Indicators of Outcome
Authors: Rothbaum Barbara Olasov , Ruef Anna Marie , Litz Brett T. , Han Hyemee , Hodges Larry
Published: January 2005

This article describes the treatment by exposure therapy of a Vietnam veteran for PTSD related to his war experiences. There are several unique features of this particular treatment and case report. One, the exposure treatment was delivered in conjunction with virtual reality. The patient was exposed to two virtual Vietnam environments, a virtual Huey helicopter and a virtual landing zone, while engaging in exposure to his most traumatic Vietnam memories. Two, the nature of several of these traumatic memories included guilt over acts that the patient committed in Vietnam, which is often times not considered a good candidate for exposure therapy. Three, psychophysiological monitoring occurred throughout the treatment as well as at pretreatment and posttreatment. His responses to treatment, in terms of guilt, anger, and anxiety, standardized symptom measures at pretreatment and post-treatment and follow-ups of 3 months and 6 months, and psychophysiological responding, are discussed.
Properties of pectin gel bead modified with pectin hydrolysate and chitosan
Authors: Murata Yoshifumi , Miyashita Michiko , Kato Midori , Kofuji Kyouko , Kawashima Susumu
Published: January 2005

A calcium‐induced pectin gel bead (PB) containing pectin hydrolysate and/or chitosan (CS) was prepared, after which the relationship between erosion of the PB and drug release from the PB in artificial gastrointestinal juice was investigated. The PB gradually disintegrated in gastric fluid, and the rate of erosion of the PB was changed by modification of the gel matrix. The amount of calcium ion used to make the PB had little effect on drug release; however, adding CS to the PB markedly suppressed drug release in intestinal fluid. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 24:46–50, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20029
Modeling of bubble growth dynamics and nonisothermal expansion in starch‐based foams during extrusion
Authors: Wang Lijun , Ganjyal Girish M. , Jones David D. , Weller Curtis L. , Hanna Milford A.
Published: January 2005

A mathematical model was developed to describe expansion phenomena in starch‐based foams during extrusion. The model was divided into three parts to describe the microbubble growth dynamics, to couple bubble growth with extrudate expansion, and to describe the macrotransport phenomena in the extrudate, respectively. The differential equations involved in the model were solved by finite element schemes. For validating the model, the predicted radius, density, and residual moisture of final extrudate were compared with experimental data. Standard deviations between the predicted and experimental radius, density, and residual moisture of final extrudates were 16.7%, 11.2%, and 39.3%, respectively. The model was used to predict the profiles of downstream velocity, expansion ratio, moisture content, and temperature of extrudate during expansion. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 24:29–45, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20030
Investigations into the etiology of neural tube defects
Authors: Cabrera Robert M. , Hill Denise S. , Etheredge Analee J. , Finnell Richard H.
Published: January 2005

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are serious malformations affecting approximately 1 per 1000 births, yet the mechanisms by which they arise are unknown. There have been consistent efforts in many fields of research to elucidate the etiology of this multifactorial condition. While no single gene has been identified as a major independent risk factor for NTDs, candidate genes have been proposed that may modify the effects of maternal and/or embryonic exposures. Folate supplementation effectively reduces the occurrence of NTDs and, consequently, has focused much research on metabolism of folate‐related pathways during pregnancy and development. Further understanding of normal development and how teratogens can perturb these orchestrated processes also remains at the fore of modern scientific endeavors. The composite of these factors remains fragmented; the aim of this review is to provide the reader with a summary of sentinel and current works in the body of literature addressing NTD disease etiology. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 72:330–344, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Controllable Growth of Chains and Grids from Polyoxomolybdate Building Blocks Linked by Silver(I) Dimers
Authors: Abbas Hamera , Pickering Alexandra L. , Long De‐Liang , Kögerler Paul , Cronin Leroy
Published: January 2005

Molecular growth processes utilizing a β‐octamolybdate synthon and {Ag2} dimers are described and the directing influence of “encapsulating” cations and coordinating solvent is also demonstrated. The growth of two 1D chains, (nBu4N)2n[Ag2Mo8O26]n (1) and (nBu4N)2n[Ag2Mo8O26(CH3CN)2]n (2), is achieved when nBu4N+ ions are used, and the diameter of the chains can be expanded by the coordination of CH3CN solvent (2). The formation of a type of gridlike structure in which 1D chains are crossed‐over each other in alternatively packed layers is achieved in DMSO as the solvent; DMSO acts as a linking group to give (nBu4N)2n[Ag2Mo8O26(dmso)2]n (3), which, similar to 1 and 2, still incorporates the Bu4N+ ions that exert an “encapsulating” influence. However, in (HDMF)n[Ag3(Mo8O26)(dmf)4]n (4) the relatively bulky Bu4N+ ions are exchanged for protonated DMF cations, thereby allowing the chains to condense to a 2D array. The building block concept is further enforced by the isolation of a “monomeric” unit (Ph4P)2[Ag2Mo8O26(dmso)4] (5), which is isolated when the Ph4P+ ions are so “encapsulating” as to prevent aggregation of the {Ag‐Mo8‐Ag} building blocks. The nature of the Ag⋅⋅⋅Ag dimers in each of the compounds 1–4 is examined by DFT calculations and the interplay between these Ag–Ag interactions and the structure types is described.
Design of Molecular Photonic Wires Based on Multistep Electronic Excitation Transfer
Authors: Tinnefeld Philip , Heilemann Mike , Sauer Markus
Published: January 2005

Light‐harvesting complexes, one of nature's supreme examples of nanoscale engineering, have inspired researchers to construct molecular optical devices, such as photonic wires, which are optimised for efficient transfer of excited‐state energy over large distances. The control parameters for the design and the advantages of single‐molecule fluorescence spectroscopy for the study of such complex systems are discussed with respect to energy‐transfer mechanisms, chromophore selection and arrangement as well as static and dynamic heterogeneity.
Using environmental management systems to increase firms' competitiveness
Authors: Giménez Leal Gerusa , Casadesús Fa Martí , Valls Pasola Jaume
Published: January 2005

The traditional view that has predominated in the industrial world has been that of a total clash between economic activity and the protection of the environment. This perception has evolved somewhat and currently environmental considerations have become a fundamental part of business practices. The first step that may help organizations to face these new challenges lies in recognizing the competitive advantages that environmental management systems, EMSs, can bring. This article presents the findings of a recent survey of Spanish firms. The results suggest that a positive relationship exists between the effects of EMSs and improving firms' competitiveness. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. and ERP Environment
Limited LCAs of pharmaceutical products: merits and limitations of an environmental management tool
Authors: de Jonge Anne Marie
Published: January 2005

This article explores both the merits and the limitations of life cycle analysis (LCA) as an environmental management tool in the framework of the pharmaceutical industry.

In this study, limited LCAs in the form of product lifecycle‐oriented energy balances were established for two rather different pharmaceutical products. Primary energy requirements served as the single indicator for the products' direct and indirect environmental impacts. The functional units of the products were defined as the one year treatments of average patients.

The results of the case studies indicate that the portion of the active substance in the pharmaceutical end product is an important predictor for the breakdown of energy requirements and thus environmental impacts over the life cycle. Despite its limitations, the energy balances provide first‐hand indications of where eco‐efficiency measures should be taken. In this sense, the limited LCAs served as a useful environmental management tool. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. and ERP Environment
Electrical Conductivity of Noble Gases at High Pressures
Authors: Kuhlbrodt S. , Redmer R. , Reinholz H. , Röpke G. , Holst B. , Mintsev V. B. , Gryaznov V. K. , Shilkin N. S. , Fortov V. E.
Published: January 2005

We present experimental and theoretical results for the electrical conductivity of noble gases (He, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe) up to high pressures where a transition from nonmetallic to metallic‐like conductivities occurs. In addition, we show the behavior of the thermal conductivity and thermopower for xenon as an example. The experiments were performed using explosively driven shock waves. Different geometries allow to probe various parameter regions up to several megabars. Besides single‐shock experiments along the principal Hugoniot curve, also multiple‐shock experiments were performed which follow almost an isentrope. The theoretical calculations were performed within a partially ionized plasma model. The composition is determined by solving a system of mass action laws. The transport coefficients are calculated within linear response theory taking into account the relevant scattering mechanisms of electrons at different ion species, atoms, and other electrons. The general trends of the experimental results can be explained within this theoretical approach. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of retainer frame, irradiance level and specimen thickness on cone calorimeter test results
Authors: Urbas Joe
Published: January 2005

The effects of retainer frame use, irradiance level and specimen thickness were studied as the second phase work of a round robin project on the cone calorimeter. The project was conducted in support of various U.S. building code groups, developing a system to determine the degrees of combustibility of building materials. The results of the second phase and a comparison with the corresponding round robin results conducted at 75 kW/m2 according to the Board for the Coordination of the Model Codes (BCMC) protocol, are presented here.

For most of the materials, no significant differences in parameters measured in the cone calorimeter were found when the retainer frame was not used, versus when the retainer frame was used. The irradiance of 50 kW/m2 compared with 75 kW/m2 produced significantly longer ignition times (with one exception) and lower heat‐release‐related variables as expected. The exception was gypsum board, for which heat release related values were usually higher at 50 kW/m2 than at 75 kW/m2. The specimen thickness effect could not be studied adequately due to the small number of tests conducted. A significant thickness effect was shown for the heat‐release‐related variables but not for time to ignition. The effect, however, was opposite for polyurethane foam in comparison with cellulosic materials. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining high‐order accuracy with non‐oscillatory methods through monotonicity preservation
Authors: Rider W. J. , Greenough J. A. , Kamm J. R.
Published: January 2005

We have extended the usual notions used in high‐resolution methods. Rather than applying a single principle such as monotonicity or essentially non‐oscillatory stencil selection, we hybridize multiple principles applying them where they are most effective. We define methods that blend high‐order accuracy with essentially non‐oscillatory methods when monotonicity conditions are violated. The methods can be defined with a number of variants leading to results with differing properties. We also focus on the impact of the selection of the high‐order accurate stencil on the overall method. Published in 2005 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adjoint error estimation for EHL‐like models
Authors: Hart D. E. , Goodyer C. E. , Berzins M. , Jimack P. K. , Scales L. E.
Published: January 2005

The calculation of friction when solving elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) problems is of considerable practical engineering importance. Adjoint techniques allow the error in this integral quantity to be estimated and controlled as part of an adaptive solution strategy. This paper considers two simplified EHL models and demonstrates the successful application of the adjoint approach to error estimation of friction‐like quantities for this challenging class of problem. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of mordenite from diatomite: a case of zeolite synthesis from natural material
Authors: Sanhueza Vilma , Kelm Ursula , Cid Ruby
Published: January 2005

A high mordenite product was obtained from a natural raw material, diatomite, either with or without the presence of diethanolamine. The synthesis process took 2 days, and was carried out under hydrothermal conditions, at autogenic pressure, and at a temperature of 180 °C. The resulting crystals were identified as mordenite by X‐ray diffraction and characterized by scanning electron microscopy, and differential thermal and gravimetric analyses. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry
Studies on internal and external water treatment at a paper and cardboard factory
Authors: Nassar Mamdouh M
Published: January 2005

The treatment of effluent from a paper/board factory that produced 280 tons of cardboard and consumed 1200 m3 of water per day was carried out. Wastewater analysis showed that the mill effluent contained 3000 mg dm−3 suspended solids, 1400 mg dm−3 COD (chemical oxygen demand) and 500 mg dm−3 BOD (biochemical oxygen demand). An internal treatment cycle is suggested that involves recirculation of paper‐machine wastewater (white‐water) and may be accomplished by installing a flotation saveall (fiber recovery) unit. This arrangement reduced fresh water use by about 90%, reduced fiber loss by 80–90%, and increased board production by 13%. An external treatment process for the effluent was assessed by conducting laboratory coagulation tests (alum, ferric chloride, ferrous sulfate, and polyelectrolyte) on the whole mill effluent. Oxidation of the mill effluent using calcium hypochlorite before discharging the effluent to a lagoon offers the benefits of killing the harmful bacteria and reducing the pollution load. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry
Preferential extraction of gallium from Bayer liquor using ion exchange chelating resin containing hydroxamic acid functional group
Authors: Rao K Srinivasa , Sarangi D , Dash PK , Chaudhury G Roy
Published: January 2005

Gallium extraction studies were carried out using resin containing an hydroxamic acid functional group. Extraction was dependant on reaction time and alkali concentration. The resin did not extract aluminium. Vanadium extraction kinetics were slower than those of gallium. The gallium and vanadium separation efficiency increased with decreasing contact time with extractions of 64% and 32% respectively after 1 min. Gallium extraction was independent of alkali concentration up to 250 g dm−3 and thereafter decreased with increasing alkali concentration. Vanadium extraction decreased with increasing alkali concentration. Cyclic batch and column studies were carried out with synthetic as well as actual Bayer liquor to test the stability and preferential extraction of gallium using the resin. It was observed that using resin partially loaded with gallium, the co‐extraction of vanadium could be minimised. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry
Development of a pilot process for the production of alfalfa peptide isolate
Authors: Prévot‐D'Alvise Nathalie , Lesueur‐Lambert Christine , Fertin‐Bazus Anne , Fertin Bertrand , Dhulster Pascal
Published: January 2005

Enzymatic membrane reactors are widely used to produce protein hydrolysates. During the past few years, leaf extracts have been recognised as a good source of high quality protein. The interest in alfalfa protein concentrate (APC), a hydrophobic protein with excellent functional and nutritional properties, is due to its abundance, to its amino acid composition and to its ribulose 1,5‐biphosphate carboxylase–oxygenase content. In order to use this potential protein source in various fields (food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries), a pilot process for APC hydrolysis in a continuous stirred tank membrane reactor (CSTMR) was carried out. At pH 9.5 and 40 °C, the hydrolysis of APC (30.6 g dm−3) by Delvolase (2.4 g dm−3) with a residence time of 180 min, gave a conversion of 759 g kg−1 protein at steady state. Coupling the reactor with an inorganic ultrafiltration membrane (Carbosep M5) with a 10 kDa nominal molecular weight cut‐off (NMWCO), allowed production of a soluble and reproducible peptide permeate with 23 g dm−3 of hydrolysed protein. Phenolic compounds, responsible for the brown colour of the permeate, were removed at pH 5.0 and room temperature by anion‐exchange chromatography using Amberlite IRA900Cl, with a yield of 920 g kg−1. After electrodialysis and spray‐drying of the decolorised permeate, an alfalfa peptide isolate (API) was obtained. It was soluble over the full pH range and its amino acid composition was comparable to that of the FAO/WHO standard. It could be used as a protein supplement in human diets and other fields. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry
Extraction of vanadium(V) from sulfate solutions by ACORGA M5640
Authors: Alguacil Francisco José , Muñoz José Francisco , Alonso Manuel , Coedo Aurora Gomez , Dorado Maria Teresa , Padilla Isabel
Published: January 2005

ACORGA M5640 (hydroxy‐oxime derivative) has been applied as an extraction reagent for vanadium(V) from sulfate media. The extraction system was studied as a function of contact time, temperature, aqueous pH, diluent of the organic phase, and metal and extractant concentrations. The extraction reaction is endothermic and it is dependent on the organic diluent, aqueous pH and extractant concentration. The data have been analysed numerically to determine the stoichiometry of extracted species and their equilibrium constants. It was found that vanadium was extracted into the organic phase by a complex mechanism which involves the formation of two species (VO2R and VO2R. HR, where R represents the extractant). Vanadium stripping by acidic and ammonium hydroxide solutions was also studied. Copyright © 2003 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of objective numerical apertures on achievable imaging depths in multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Tung Chih‐Kuan , Sun Yen , Lo Wen , Lin Sung‐Jan , Jee Shiou‐Hwa , Dong Chen‐Yuan
Published: January 2005

Multiphoton microscopy is a powerful technique for achieving three‐dimensional submicron imaging in biological specimens. However, specimen optical parameters such as refractive indices and scattering coefficients can result in the loss of image resolution and decreased signal in depth. These factors are coupled to the focusing objective's numerical aperture (NA) in limiting the achievable imaging depths. In this work, we performed multiphoton imaging on aqueous fluorescent solution, human skin, and rat tail tendon to show that, under the same immersion condition, lower NA objectives can examine more deeply into biological specimens and should be used when optimal imaging depths is desired. Microsc. Res. Tech. 65:308–314, 2004. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Contents of 3‐alkyl‐2‐methoxypyrazines in musts and wines from Vitis vinifera variety Cabernet Sauvignon: influence of irrigation and plantation density
Authors: Sala Cristina , Busto Olga , Guasch Josep , Zamora Fernando
Published: January 2005

The influence of irrigation and plantation density on the methoxypyrazine content in musts and wines has been studied. Samples were monitored throughout grape ripening and wine‐making. 3‐Isobutyl‐2‐methoxypyrazine, 3‐sec‐butyl‐2‐methoxypyrazine and 3‐isopropyl‐2‐methoxypyrazine were identified and quantified. Samples from irrigated vines had significantly higher average contents of 3‐isobutyl‐2‐methoxypyrazine than samples from non‐irrigated plants. Average levels of this compound were also higher in samples from vines with the higher plantation density. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Fatty acid and nitrogen utilization of processed flaxseed by adult chickens
Authors: Shen Yingran , Feng Dingyuan , Oresanya Temitope F , Chavez Eduardo R
Published: January 2005

The effect of flaxseed processing on the utilization of fatty acids and nitrogen were examined in adult chicken. Two batches (A and B) of flaxseed were processed by autoclaving, pelleting, or microwave roasting. Thirty grams of the ground ingredient was given to fasted Leghorn roosters. The apparent digestibility of total fatty acids of raw flaxseeds A and B were 660 and 490 g kg−1, respectively. Its improvement (p < 0.05) reached 29% for flaxseed A after three‐times repeated pelleting. Similarly, it was 39% (p < 0.05) for flaxseed B after 4 min of microwave roasting. The improvement in the absorption of major individual fatty acids in flaxseed followed the same pattern as that of total fatty acids. The apparent digestibility of linolenic acid in extruded full‐fat soybean was much higher (p < 0.05) than that in raw flaxseed A, but not that in processed flaxseed A (p > 0.05). Furthermore, roosters given canola seed had significantly higher true nitrogen utilization (p < 0.05) than those fed raw flaxseed A. This difference was reduced or non‐existent (p > 0.05) with processed flaxseed. Proper flaxseed processing effectively increases the utilization of major fatty acids and nitrogen in flaxseed for adult chicken. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Biodegradable polymers: IV. Spectral, thermal, and mechanical properties of cross‐linked soy protein concentrate
Authors: Swain SN , Rao KK , Nayak PL
Published: January 2005

Soy protein concentrate, a potential alternative to petrochemical polymers, was cross‐linked with formaldehyde at 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5 and 7.5 % (w/w). The materials were then compression‐moulded into plastic tensile bars and tested for tensile and yield strength, percentage elongation and water absorption. The infrared spectra of the cross‐linked product were studied. The degradation pattern of the cross‐linked product was monitored by thermogravimetric analysis. A computerised LOTUS package method that we developed was used for evaluating the kinetic parameters. The biodegradability of the cross‐linked product was also investigated. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Adsorption of bilirubin on poly‐L‐lysine‐containing nylon membranes: applications in affinity chromatography
Authors: Shi Wei , Zhang Fengbao , Zhang Guoliang , Ge Dongtao , Zhang Qiqing
Published: January 2005

Microporous polyamide membranes were activated by 1,1′‐carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) and subsequently bound with hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) to amplify reactive groups. Then poly‐L‐lysine (PLL) as ligand was immobilized onto the HEC‐nylon membranes. The contents in HEC and PLL of PLL‐attached membranes were 153.2 and 63.8 mg (g nylon membrane)−1, respectively. Such PLL‐HEC affinity membranes were used to adsorb bilirubin from bilirubin‐phosphate and bilirubin‐albumin solutions. The adsorption mechanism of bilirubin and the effects of temperature and ionic strength on adsorption were investigated by batch experiments. The results showed that the adsorption capacity increased with increasing temperature but decreased with increasing NaCl concentration, and the adsorption isotherm fitted the Freundlich model well. Dynamic experiments showed that PLL‐attached membranes can readily remove the bilirubin from bilirubin‐albumin solutions. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Photocontrol of Ca2+ complexation with an azacrown‐containing benzochromene
Authors: Ushakov E. N. , Nazarov V. B. , Fedorova O. A. , Gromov S. P. , Chebun'kova A. V. , Alfimov M. V. , Barigelletti F.
Published: January 2005

The new azacrown‐containing benzochromene 1a was synthesized in order to study the effect of its reversible photochromic reaction on complex formation with Ca2+ in acetonitrile. It was found that both the initial chromene 1a and its photoinduced merocyanine isomer 2a are able to form 1:1 complexes with Ca2+, in which the metal cation coordinates to the crown ether moiety. The complexation causes strong spectroscopic shifts and leads to an increase in the dark lifetime of 2a. The equilibrium constant for the 1:1 complexation decreases upon photoinduced ring‐opening reaction (log K = 4.9 and 4.1 for 1a and 2a, respectively). Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative actions of clomazone on β‐carotene levels and growth in rice (Oryza sativa) and watergrasses (Echinochloa spp)
Authors: TenBrook Patti L , Tjeerdema Ronald S
Published: January 2005

Seedlings of rice, early watergrass (thiobencarb‐resistant and thiobencarb‐susceptible biotypes, R and S, respectively), and late watergrass (thiobencarb‐resistant and thiobencarb‐susceptible biotypes, R and S, respectively) were hydroponically exposed to clomazone at concentrations ranging from 0.08 to 7.9 µM. Whole‐plant growth (mg fresh wt) and β‐carotene concentrations (µg g−1 fresh wt) were measured after a 7‐day exposure period. For growth, the no observed effect concentrations (NOECs) were 7.9, 0.21, 0.21, 0.46 and 0.46 µM clomazone for rice, early watergrass (R), early watergrass (S), late watergrass (R) and late watergrass (S), respectively, while the concentrations causing 25% inhibition in response (IC25) were 5.6 (±1.6), 0.46 (±0.06), 0.42 (±0.08), 0.92 (±0.45) and 0.79 (±0.08) µM clomazone, respectively. Clomazone inhibits β‐carotene synthesis via inhibition of the non‐mevalonate isoprenoid synthetic pathway. For assessment of clomazone effects, β‐carotene levels proved to be a more sensitive toxicological endpoint than growth. For rice, early watergrass (R), early watergrass (S), late watergrass (R) and late watergrass (S), the β‐carotene NOECs were 0.21, <0.08, <0.08, 0.08 and 0.46 µM clomazone respectively, while IC25 values were 0.42 (±0.26), 0.08 (±0.02), 0.08 (±0.02), 0.33 (±0.09) and 0.54 (±0.15) µM, respectively. No evidence was found that the thiobencarb‐resistance mechanisms present in early and late watergrasses impart resistance to clomazone. Due to similar sensitivity between rice and late watergrass, use of clomazone in rice culture will require the use of a safening technique. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Technical performance of some commercial glyphosate‐resistant crops
Authors: Pline‐Srnic Wendy
Published: January 2005

Glyphosate‐resistant (GR) crops have been sold commercially in the USA since 1996. The use of glyphosate alone or with conventional pre‐ and post‐emergence herbicides with different modes of action gives growers many options for affordable, safe, easy, effective wide‐spectrum weed control. Despite the overwhelming popularity of this technology, technical issues have surfaced from time to time as US growers adopt these crops for use on their farms. The types of concern raised by growers vary from year to year depending on the crop and the environment, but include perceptions of increased sensitivity to diseases, increased fruit abortion, reduced pollination efficiency, increased sensitivity to environmental stress, and differences in yield and agronomic characteristics between transgenic and sister conventional varieties. Although several glyphosate‐resistant crops are commercially available, maize, soybean and cotton constitute the largest cultivated acreage and have likewise been associated with the highest number of technical concerns. Because glyphosate is rapidly translocated to and accumulates in metabolic sink tissues, reproductive tissues and roots are particularly vulnerable. Increased sensitivity to glyphosate in reproductive tissues has been documented in both glyphosate‐resistant cotton and maize, and results in reduced pollen production and viability, or increased fruit abortion. Glyphosate treatments have the potential to affect relationships between the GR crop, plant pathogens, plant pests and symbiotic micro‐organisms, although management practices can also have a large impact. Despite these potential technical concerns, this technology remains popular, and is a highly useful tool for weed control in modern crop production. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Herbicide resistance in transgenic plants with mammalian P450 monooxygenase genes
Authors: Inui Hideyuki , Ohkawa Hideo
Published: January 2005

Transgenic potato and rice plants were generated by the introduction of human P450 species, CYP1A1, CYP2B6, CYP2C9 and CYP2C19, which metabolized a number of herbicides, insecticides and industrial chemicals. The transgenic potato plant T1977 co‐expressing CYP1A1, CYP2B6 and CYP2C19 genes showed remarkable cross‐resistance to several herbicides with different structures and modes of action due to metabolism of these herbicides by the P450 species expressed. The transgenic rice plant 2C9‐57R2 expressing CYP2C9 gene showed resistance to sulfonylureas, and the transgenic rice plant 2C19‐12R1 expressing CYP2C19 gene showed cross‐resistance to certain herbicides with different structures and modes of action. These transgenic plants appear to be useful for herbicide resistance as well as phytoremediation of environmental contaminants. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Ultracold fermions with several flavors
Authors: Honerkamp C.
Published: January 2005

Ultracold atoms have attracted enormous interest recently, and Cooper pairing between fermionic alkali atoms may have been observed experimentally. Besides the demonstration of phenomena that we are acquainted with from solid state physics, ultracold atoms possibly exhibit interesting many‐body ground states that do not have straightforward counterparts in solid state physics. The hyperfine degree of freedom of the atoms in combination with optical lattices may allow for the approximate realization of fermionic SU(N) Hubbard models where N counts the number of trapped hyperfine states (‘flavors’). We analyze the ground states of this model on the two‐dimensional square lattice using one‐loop renormalization group and meanfield techniques. In the repulsive case for N > 6 and half band filling staggered flux order is found as the dominant instability, in agreement with the large‐N limit. In the attractive case and odd N a full Fermi surface coexists with a superfluid in the ground state. We describe how these unconventional paired states can be identified in the density response of the fermions. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ultracold atom superfluidity induced by the Feshbach resonance
Authors: Domański T.
Published: January 2005

We discuss the possible signatures of superfluidity induced by the Feshbach resonance in the ultracold gas of fermion atoms. Optically or magnetically trapped atoms such as 6Li or 40K are used in two hyperfine states where part of them is converted into the diatomic molecules. These fermion and boson entities get coupled in a presence of the external magnetic field. Eventually, at critical Tc, they simultaneously undergo transition to the superfluid state. Approaching this transition from above there appear various signatures manifesting a gradually emerging order parameter, but yet the long range coherence is not established due to the strong quantum fluctuations. Fermion atoms are characterized by the gapped excitation spectrum (pseudogap) up to temperature Tp (larger than Tc) while boson molecules exhibit collective features such as first sound showing up above a certain critical momentum q.crit (T) Upon lowering temperature to Tc this critical value shifts to zero and hence there appears the Goldstone mode signaling the symmetry broken superfluid state. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Anti‐allergic effect of Perilla frutescens and its active constituents
Authors: Makino Toshiaki , Furuta Yasuyuki , Wakushima Hannosuke , Fujii Hajime , Saito Ken‐ichi , Kano Yoshihiro
Published: January 2005

The leaves of Perilla frutescens Britton (Labiatae) are one of the most popular garnishes in Japan, used as an antidote for ﬁsh and crab meat allergy or as a food colorant. The present study was conducted to evaluate its anti‐allergic effect and to identify its active constituents using mice ear‐passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA)‐reaction. 48 h after the cutaneous injection of anti‐ovalbumin serum into the ears of mice, ovalbumin and evansblue dye were intravenously injected. Perilla was extracted with boiling water, and intraperitoneally injected 15 min before ovalbumin‐treatment. Thirty min after ovalbumin‐treatment, the ears were removed and the colorant in the ear was colorimetrically quantitated. Perilla extract signiﬁcantly suppressed the PCA‐reaction, which was brought about by rosmarinic acid with a partial contribution from some macromolecular compounds. The anti‐allergic titer of rosmarinic acid was more effective than tranilast, which is a modern anti‐allergic drug. Perilla and rosmarinic acid are potentially promising agents for the treatment of allergic diseases. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antinociceptive and antipyretic activities of Pongamia pinnata leaves
Authors: Srinivasan K. , Muruganandan S. , Lal J. , Chandra S. , Tandan S. K. , Raviprakash V. , Kumar D.
Published: January 2005

In the present study, the antinociceptive activity of a 70% ethanol extract of Pongamia pinnata leaves (PLE) was investigated in different models of pain in mice and rats. Further, PLE was also evaluated for its antipyretic activity in Brewer's yeast‐induced pyrexia in rats. Per os (p.o.) administration of the PLE (100–1000 mg/kg) produced signiﬁcant antinociceptive activity in the hotplate and tail ﬂick (central) as well as in acetic acid writhing and Randall‐Selitto (peripheral) nociceptive tests suggesting the involvement of both central and peripheral mechanisms in alleviating the pain response. In addition, PLE also exhibited a significant antipyretic response in Brewer's yeast‐induced pyrexia in rats. These results demonstrated that PLE possesses marked antinociceptive as well as antipyretic activities and thus scientiﬁcally validated its use in the treatment of pain and pyretic disorders. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Derivatisation for the characterisation of neutral oxosteroids by electrospray and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation tandem mass spectrometry: the Girard P derivative
Authors: Griffiths William J. , Liu Suya , Alvelius Gunvor , Sjövall Jan
Published: January 2005

The identification, quantification and localisation of steroids in biological fluids and tissues are subjects of considerable importance. Not only do steroids have classical hormonal properties via binding to nuclear receptors, they can also elicit cellular responses via interactions with other proteins. For mass spectrometric analysis, neutral steroids are not readily ionised by either electrospray (ES) or matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation (MALDI). In this communication a derivatisation protocol is presented which allows for the rapid analysis of neutral oxosteroids by both ES and MALDI mass spectrometry. Neutral oxosteroids are derivatised to Girard P hydrazones. When analysed by tandem mass spectrometry the derivatised steroids fragment to give structurally informative spectra allowing subsequent steroid identification. The derivatisation method is simple, the reagents are commercially available, and reaction products are easily isolated from the reaction mixture. Analyte identification can be performed at the sub‐pg level. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometric analysis of explosives: RDX adduct ions
Authors: Gapeev Alexei , Sigman Michael , Yinon Jehuda
Published: January 2005

In liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) of 1,3,5‐trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazacyclohexane (RDX), attachment of an anion to the analyte molecule is the major way of producing characteristic ions under electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) conditions. The formation of RDX cluster ions in LC/MS and the origin of the clustering agents have been studied. In order to determine whether the clustering anions originate from self‐decomposition of RDX in the source or from impurities in the mobile phase, isotopically labeled RDX (13C3‐RDX and 15N6‐RDX) and isotopically labeled glycolic acid, acetic acid, ammonium formate and formaldehyde have been used in order to establish the composition and formation route of RDX adduct ions produced in ESI and APCI sources. The results showed that, in ESI, self‐decomposition of RDX plays no role in adduct ion formation; rather, RDX clusters with formate, acetate, hydroxyacetate, and chloride anions present in the mobile phase as impurities at ppm levels. In APCI, part of the RDX molecules decompose yielding NO2− species which in turn cluster with a second RDX molecule producing abundant [M+NO2]− cluster ions. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amount‐dependent isotopic fractionation during compound‐specific isotope analysis
Authors: Schmitt Jochen , Glaser Bruno , Zech Wolfgang
Published: January 2005

The performance of a gas chromatography‐combustion‐isotope ratio mass spectrometry system (GC‐C‐IRMS) with respect to the dependence of δ13C values on the amount of sample is presented. Particular attention is paid to the localization of the amount‐dependent isotopic fractionation within the system. Injection experiments with varying amounts of gases (CO2, n‐hexane, and toluene) revealed that neither the detector unit nor the combustion reactor, but rather the conditions in the split/splitless injector, contributed to this effect. Although optimization of injector parameters was performed and a reduction of this adverse effect from 3 to 1‰ was achieved, it was not possible to eliminate isotopic fractionation completely. Consequently, additional injector parameters have to be considered and adjusted to achieve injection conditions free of fractionation. For routine analysis of the compound‐specific δ13C analysis of different biomarkers in many environmental samples, perfect optimization may not always be reached. Therefore, in order to prevent systematic errors in the measured δ13C values due to different sample concentrations, it is suggested that correction for the remaining unknown amount‐dependent fractionation can be made by means of co‐analyzing standards of varying analyte concentrations and known δ13C values. Residual overall amount‐dependent isotope‐fractionation can thus be corrected mathematically. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dramatic decline of the threatened Ili pika Ochotona iliensis (Lagomorpha: Ochotonidae) in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Li Wei-Dong , Smith Andrew T.
Published: January 2005

The Vulnerable Ili pika Ochotona iliensis (Lagomorpha: Ochotonidae) is a poorly known mammal species that inhabits a restricted geographic range in the Tian Shan Mountains, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. It was discovered in 1983, described in 1986, and subsequently investigated over the following decade. As no studies were conducted on this pika during the next 10 years, a comprehensive census was undertaken in the summers of 2002 and 2003, including all sites where it had previously been observed. Evidence of the Ili pika was found at only 6 of 14 sites censused, and was extinct in two of six regions, including the type and paratype localities (Jilimalale Mountain). Ili pika populations appear to have declined in three of six regions, and in only one region did the population appear to be comparable to a decade earlier. Like all rock-dwelling pikas, the Ili pika has a low population density and rate of reproduction. Additionally, populations on its preferred habitat of cliff faces are highly fragmented. Increased temperatures, possibly due to global warming, and increased grazing pressure may have interacted with the normal population dynamics of the Ili pika to contribute to its recent dramatic decline. We recommend that the Ili pika's Red List status be changed from Vulnerable to Endangered.
Large- and medium-sized ungulates in the Haut Niger National Park, Republic of Guinea: population changes 1997–2002
Authors: Brugière David , Dia Mamadou , Diakité Souleymane , Gbansara Marthe , Mamy Maurice , Saliou Barry , Magassouba Bakary
Published: January 2005

A census of ungulates was carried out in May 2002 in the Haut Niger National Park, Republic of Guinea. The study site was subdivided into three census blocks in which a total 111 transects (total length = 838.24 km) were censused once by one observer. Densities were estimated using DISTANCE analysis. We observed a total of 10 species of ungulates (nine Bovidae and one Suidae). Maxwell's duiker Cephalophus maxwelli had the highest density (3.69 individuals km−2) followed by the red-flanked duiker Cephalophus rufilatus (2.61 individuals km−2), whereas the buffalo Syncerus caffer had the lowest density (0.34 individuals km−2). Compared to a census in 1997, the abundance of red-flanked and Maxwell's duikers significantly decreased (by c. 50%) whereas that of other species remained stable or increased. This variation may possibly be explained by a change in the hunting pattern in the area, which shifted from large-scale hunting by large groups of hunters from outside the area before the Park's creation, to small-scale poaching by local hunters. The Park includes a diversity of ungulate species and harbours populations of ungulates that are important at both national and regional levels. We recommend therefore that the Park should be considered a key area for the conservation of ungulates in West Africa.
Guaiacum coulteri: an over-logged dry forest tree of Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Gordon James E. , González Marco Antonio , Hernández Jesús Vázquez , Lavariega Roberto Ortega , Reyes-García Alberto
Published: January 2005

Logging history and population structure of the dry forest tree species Guaiacum coulteri are described for Oaxaca, Mexico. We propose that the species has been adversely affected by selective logging, with large individuals now being uncommon. We argue that the species is likely to have undergone similar changes elsewhere in its range and, following IUCN guidelines, propose that it is categorized as Endangered. Maintenance of G. coulteri as an understorey shrub may be possible given current land use practices in the area but recovery of populations of large individuals may be more difficult. Suggestions for future research are made.
Current status of the threatened Dupont's lark Chersophilus duponti in Spain: overestimation, decline, and extinction of local populations
Authors: Tella José L. , Vögeli Matthias , Serrano David , Carrete Martina
Published: January 2005

The European population of Dupont's lark Chersophilus duponti, restricted to Spanish steppe, was estimated to be 13,000 pairs in c. 50 populations in 1988. There is, however, recent evidence that this number was overestimated because of the previous use of line transects for estimating population sizes. In 2002–2004 we surveyed 34 previously known local populations in patches of variable size across half of its Spanish distribution. We found 13 (38%) local populations to be extinct, and a total of only 283–339 territories in 17 of the extant populations, seven of which held <5 territories. This census contrasts dramatically with the estimate of c. 3,000 pairs in the same populations in the 1980s. We estimate that the present Spanish population is c. 1,300 pairs. The discrepancy between this and earlier estimates is partly but not entirely due to previous overestimations. Habitat loss due to ploughing, and possibly habitat degradation and the resulting stochastic extinction of small and isolated populations, have contributed to the species' decline. Urgent research is needed to design and manage an adequate network of steppe patches that will ensure the long-term existence of this species. We recommend that Dupont's lark be categorized on the IUCN Red List as Endangered, both globally and nationally within Spain.
Postcolonialism and Latin American literature: the case of Carlos Fuentes
Authors: LIE NADIA
Published: January 2005

Postcolonialism is briefly presented as an academic approach in contemporary literary studies, with two opposite currents as far as the study of Latin American literature is concerned. The first constructs the relationship between Latin American and European literature as oppositional, whereas the second focuses in a more harmonious way on their interrelationship. It is argued that both currents cluster around a divergent reading of the ‘cannibal’ metaphor. The article then centres on the position of the Mexican writer Carlos Fuentes, who covers both postcolonial tendencies. This is shown by focusing upon a specific case, his early novella Aura. Attention is paid to the tension between Europe and Latin America, both on a literary level (intertextuality) and on a historical level (colonization and nation-building).