bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incentives for Improving Energy Efficiency When Renovating Large-Scale Housing Estates: A Case Study of the Swedish Million Homes Programme
Authors: Högberg Lovisa , Lind Hans , Grange Kristina
Published: December 2009

Sweden has adopted ambitious energy savings objectives for buildings, but at the current rate of energy efficiency investments the objectives are unlikely to be reached. In this article we report the early findings of how real estate owners reason and act in energy efficiency investment decisions. Based on the results from interviews with the real estate companies, the companies have been divided into four ideal types that illuminate the differences in energy efficiency ambition and strategies; the Strict Profit Maximizing Company, the Little Extra Company, the Policy Led Ambitious Company and the Administration Led Ambitious Company. The different strategies will determine how the companies respond to incentives to invest in energy efficiency, and affect the overall result in the energy efficiency work. The ideal types hence are important to have in mind when designing policies to increase energy efficiency.
A short synthesis of (±)-cherylline dimethyl ether
Authors: Kale Bhima Y , Shinde Ananta D , Sonar Swapnil S , Shingate Bapurao B , Kumar Sanjeev , Ghosh Samir , Venugopal Soodamani , Shingare Murlidhar S
Published: December 2009

A synthesis of (±)-cherylline dimethyl ether is reported. The key steps involved are Michael-type addition, radical azidonation of an aldehyde, Curtius rearrangement, and reduction of an isocyanate intermediate followed by Pictet–Spengler cyclization.
Peripheral Blood Expression Profiles of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins, Tumor Necrosis Factor-superfamily Molecules, and Transcription Factor Runx2 Could Be Used as Markers of the Form of Arthritis, Disease Activity, and Therapeutic Responsiveness
Authors: GRCEVIC DANKA , JAJIC ZRINKA , KOVACIC NATAŠA , LUKIC IVAN KREŠIMIR , VELAGIC VEDRAN , GRUBIŠIC FRANE , IVCEVIC SANJA , MARUŠIC ANA
Published: December 2009

Objective.

To assess whether different forms of arthritis and disease activity could be distinguished by peripheral blood expression profiles of bone-regulatory factors including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-superfamily [TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), the Fas ligand (FasL), and the ligand for herpesvirus entry mediator (LIGHT)] and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-family members (BMP-2, BMP-4, BMP-6) as well as osteoblast differentiation gene Runx2.

Methods.

Blood cells from healthy controls (n = 25) and patients at different disease stages with rheumatoid arthritis (RA; n = 49), osteoarthritis (OA; n = 17), or spondyloarthritis, including ankylosing spondylitis (AS; n = 27) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA; n = 23), were processed for quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Gene expression was assessed in comparison with control samples, correlated with clinical data of different forms of arthritis, and analyzed for discriminative efficacy between groups by receiver-operation characteristic (ROC) curves. Results were confirmed on diagnostic RA (n = 5) and AS (n = 8) samples.

Results.

BMP-4, BMP-6, and Runx2 expressions were significantly decreased in patients with RA and OA versus controls. Patients with RA also had decreased FasL and LIGHT expression, while patients with AS had increased Runx2 expression. Negative correlation with disease activity was found for BMP-4, FasL, and Runx2 in RA and for Runx2 in PsA, while positive correlation was found for BMP-4 in PsA. Gene expression was higher in the therapy-resistant form of AS (for BMP-4, LIGHT, and Runx2) and in methotrexate-treated patients in RA (for BMP-2 and LIGHT). ROC curve analysis confirmed discrimination between groups, particularly decreased LIGHT and Runx2 for RA and increased Runx2 for AS.

Conclusion.

Our study identified BMP and Runx2 as possible biomarkers of bone metabolism in several forms of arthritis, while lower FasL and LIGHT were associated with RA. Correlation between gene expression and disease activity may be clinically useful in assessing therapeutic effectiveness and disease monitoring.
Predictors of Damage and Survival in Patients with Wegener’s Granulomatosis: Analysis of 50 Patients
Authors: KAMALI SEVIL , ERER BURAK , ARTIM-ESEN BAHAR , GUL AHMET , OCAL LALE , KONICE MERAL , ARAL ORHAN , INANC MURAT
Published: December 2009

Objective.

To evaluate damage features and impact on survival by Vasculitis Damage Index (VDI) in a cohort of Turkish patients with Wegener’s granulomatosis (WG).

Methods.

We enrolled 50 (25 female) patients with WG according to ACR criteria. Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (BVAS) and VDI were used to analyze disease activity and damage.

Results.

Patients had kidney (82%), upper airway (72%), lung (70%), and nervous system (15%) involvement. Median age at diagnosis was 45 years, time to diagnosis was 3.5 months, and total followup time was 35.5 months. All but one patient was positive for antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA). Mean final dose and duration of corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide was 15 ± 14 g, 39 ± 33 months and 36 ± 34 g, 21 ± 2 months, respectively. Mean early (e) BVAS were 20.2 ± 7.1 (4–38) (median 21). Mean e-BVAS and e-VDI scores at presentation and final (f)-VDI scores at last visit were 20.2 ± 7.1 (4–38), 3.1 ± 1.7 (median 3) (0–7) and 4.4 ± 2.6 (0–12), consecutively. Disease related damage was prominent in kidneys (50%) and upper airways (27%). Amenorrhea (90%), cataract (28%), and diabetes (24%) were the most frequent treatment related damages. Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis at presentation (42%) progressed to endstage renal failure in 20%. Relapses occurred in 25% with mean BVAS of 6.5 ± 2.3 (4–11). Survival rate was 77% at 37 months. Deaths occurred early (90% in the first year). f-VDI was high in patients who relapsed (6 ± 3 vs 3.8 ± 2.1, p = 0.03). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that age at time of diagnosis and e-VDI were lower in survivors with OR = 0.9 (p = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.78–1) and OR = 0.5 (p = 0.04, 95%CI: 0.25–0.98), respectively. In this cohort, e-VDI score of 5 or more was related to death with 98% sensitivity and 56% specificity (p = 0.004) (CI: 0.66–0.95).

Conclusion.

Disease related damage outweighed treatment related damage in our cohort of predominantly generalized disease activity. Early damage and older age were found to be predictors of final damage and death.
Familial Mediterranean Fever in Ashkenazi Jews: The Mild End of the Clinical Spectrum
Authors: LIDAR MERAV , KEDEM RON , BERKUN YAACOV , LANGEVITZ PNINA , LIVNEH AVI
Published: December 2009

Objective.

To characterize familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) in Ashkenazi patients, a Jewish subgroup in which FMF has rarely been described before.

Methods.

A retrospective analysis, comparing demographic, clinical, and genetic measures of the cohort of Ashkenazi Jewish patients with FMF (n = 57), followed at the National Center for FMF in Israel, to age and sex matched patients of Iraqi Jewish (n = 62) and North African Jewish (NAJ; n = 61) origin.

Results.

Age at disease onset and diagnosis was earlier in NAJ than among Ashkenazi and Iraqi patients. Family history of FMF was described by only 30% of Ashkenazi patients as opposed to the majority of Iraqi and NAJ patients (p = 0.001). The frequency of abdominal and febrile attacks was similar among the 3 groups, while chest and joint attacks were far less common in Ashkenazi and Iraqi compared to NAJ patients. A good response to colchicine was noted in a similar proportion of Ashkenazi and Iraqi patients (82–84%) as opposed to only 56% of NAJ patients (p = 0.0001). Proteinuria, renal failure, and amyloidosis were most frequent among the NAJ patients (18, 6.6, and 9.8% compared to 5.3, 0, and 3.5% and 1.6, 0, and 0% in Ashkenazi and Iraqi patients, respectively).

Conclusion.

Ashkenazi patients with FMF stand at the mildest end of the clinical spectrum of FMF. This is notwithstanding the tendency for amyloidosis, the frequency of which is not trivial and which deserves particular awareness.
Pulmonary Manifestations in Sjögren’s Syndrome: Correlation Analysis Between Chest Computed Tomographic Findings and Clinical Subsets with Poor Prognosis in 80 Patients
Authors: WATANABE MAIKO , NANIWA TAIO , HARA MASAKI , ARAKAWA TOSHINAO , MAEDA TOMOYO
Published: December 2009

Objective.

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) has a varied clinical spectrum and has been associated with various chest computed tomography (CT) findings. We sought to delineate the characteristic CT features in various subsets of SS, especially poor prognosis subsets.

Methods.

Retrospectively identified 80 never-smoker SS patients [56 primary SS (1-SS), 24 secondary SS (2-SS)] who underwent chest CT at our institution during a 3-year period from 2004 through 2007 were included in this study. Chest CT findings were qualitatively and semiquantitatively analyzed with comparison between 1-SS and 2-SS, and correlation with anti-SSB/La seropositivity and the presence of clonally derived lymphoproliferative disorder (cLPD), which are known to be pathognomonic and prognostic clinical features of SS patients.

Results.

All patients were women with median age of 60 years. Anti-SSB/La antibodies were found in 17 primary SS patients and 4 2-SS patients. Eleven patients with cLPD were identified and all of them had 1-SS. The most frequent CT finding in both types of patients was interlobular septal thickening. Secondary SS was associated with a significantly greater frequency and extent of honeycombing versus 1-SS. Univariate and multivariate analysis showed a significant association between honeycombing and 2-SS. In patients with 1-SS and in the SS group as a whole, we observed independent and significant associations between cysts and anti-SSB/La seropositivity or cLPD.

Conclusion.

Cysts are significantly associated with anti-SSB/La seropositivity and cLPD. The presence of lung cysts revealed by chest CT might be a prognostic clinical feature, a clue, or a predictor of cLPD in patients with SS.
HIV-associated Intracranial Aneurysmal Vasculopathy in Adults
Authors: GOLDSTEIN DEBORAH A. , TIMPONE JOSEPH , CUPPS THOMAS R.
Published: December 2009

Diffuse fusiform intracranial aneurysms have been reported in children with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) for over 2 decades, but have only recently been reported in adults with HIV. Although these aneurysms have important clinical implications, their etiology and optimal therapy are unknown. We present a systematic review of diffuse intracranial fusiform aneurysmal vasculopathy in patients who are HIV-positive. We conducted a comprehensive literature search for relevant case reports and reviews published before February 2009. Patients were included if they had HIV infection and radiographic imaging consistent with fusiform aneurysmal vasculopathy. We identify 11 published adult cases of intracranial fusiform aneurysmal vasculopathy and describe 1 unpublished case from our own institution. Available data regarding clinical presentation, characteristic imaging findings, and treatment of this complex syndrome are reviewed. Adults with HIV-associated intracranial aneurysmal vasculopathy typically are significantly immunosuppressed and present with gross neurologic dysfunction. Characteristic radiographic findings include diffuse cerebral fusiform aneurysms with hemorrhage or infarct. Treatment of any active infection followed by the initiation of antiretroviral therapy and corticosteroids may be a reasonable approach in this complex syndrome.
Lead Fractures in Deep Brain Stimulation during Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Fernández Fernando Seijo , Alvarez Vega Marco Antonio , Antuña Ramos Aida , Fernández González Fernando , Lozano Aragoneses Beatriz
Published: December 2009

The purpose was to determine the incidence of lead fracture in patients with DBS over a long period of time. We present a retrospective study of 208 patients who received 387 DBS electrodes. Fourteen patients had sixteen lead fractures (4% of the implanted leads) and two patients suffered from 2 lead fractures. Of all lead fractures, five patients had the connection between the leads and the extension cables located in mastoids region, ten in cervical area and one in thoracic region. The mean distance from the connection between the electrode and the extension cable and the lead fracture was 10.7 mm. The lead fracture is a common, although long-term complication in DBS surgery. In our experience, the most common site of electrode cable breakage is approximately between 9 and 13 mm from the junction between the lead and the extension cable. The most important cause of lead fracture is the rotational movement of the lead-extension cable system. If we suspect lead fracture, we must check the impedance of the electrode and to evaluate the side effects of voltage. Finally, we must conduct a radiological screening.
Plant DNA Recombinases: A Long Way to Go
Authors: Chittela Rajani Kant , Sainis Jayashree K.
Published: December 2009

DNA homologous recombination is fundamental process by which two homologous DNA molecules exchange the genetic information for the generation of genetic diversity and maintain the genomic integrity. DNA recombinases, a special group of proteins bind to single stranded DNA (ssDNA) nonspecifically and search the double stranded DNA (dsDNA) molecule for a stretch of DNA that is homologous with the bound ssDNA. Recombinase A (RecA) has been well characterized at genetic, biochemical, as well as structural level from prokaryotes. Two homologues of RecA called Rad51 and Dmc1 have been detected in yeast and higher eukaryotes and are known to mediate the homologous recombination in eukaryotes. The biochemistry and mechanism of action of recombinase is important in understanding the process of homologous recombination. Even though considerable progress has been made in yeast and human recombinases, understanding of the plant recombination and recombinases is at nascent stage. Since crop plants are subjected to different breeding techniques, it is important to know the homologous recombination process. This paper focuses on the properties of eukaryotes recombinases and recent developments in the field of plant recombinases Dmc1 and Rad51.
'I am writing this with my own hand�': Writing in New Testament times
Authors: Botha Pieter J.J.
Published: December 2009

When the New Testament and early Christian writings are considered as situated, culturally mediated and historically functional events, the pitfall of a binary contrast between literacy and orality should be avoided. Focus should be on the physical and experiential aspects of ancient writing. Discussions of posture, education, cost and the amount of time involved in physical writing in Greco-Roman times are concluded by an analysis of the disposition of subservience that surrounded writing.�
Considerations for acceptability in Bible translation
Authors: Chemorion Diphus C.
Published: December 2009

The ministry of Bible translation is an important component of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18�20) and its mandate is to reach everyone with the word of God. One of the main goals of a Bible translation project is to produce a translation that will be used by the church in a given language group. Bible translation teams believe that the lives of the intended recipients will be changed positively when they gain access to Scripture in their own language. However, recent developments regarding Scripture use have shown that the success of any Bible translation project depends on whether or not its products are acceptable. If a translation is not acceptable to the intended audience, it may not be used, and as a result, it may fail to bring about the desired impact. This article explores the concept of �acceptability� as used in Bible translation and highlights important considerations that translators need to keep in mind in order to enhance the acceptability of their translation products.
Social implications of knowing Yahweh: A study of Jeremiah 9:22�23
Authors: Wessels Wilhelm J.
Published: December 2009

In the brief passage of Jeremiah 9:22�23, wisdom, might and riches are explicitly rejected as reasons for boasting. The only true reason for boasting is if a person �knows Yahweh�. In verse 23, this is linked with three other concepts: steadfast love, justice and righteousness. Jeremiah described the society of his day as corrupt in every sense of the word. People were stubborn, refused to acknowledge Yahweh and showed no signs of truly knowing him. They had, in fact, deserted the Torah of Yahweh. To know Yahweh has social implications. The rhetorical appeal of Jeremiah 9:22�23 to readers and hearers of this oracle is quite clear. To know Yahweh is not to claim to be wise or be the strongest or have the most possessions but to respond to Yahweh�s way of acting. This implies an understanding of his loving�kindness and acting in a morally correct way.
Human FactorVIII
Authors: Ki Ngo Jacky Chi , Huang Mingdong , Roth David A. , Furie Barbara C. , Furie Bruce
Published: December 2009

Factor VIII is a critical blood clotting factor, which forms a complex with the serine protease factor IXa upon activation to convert factor X to factor Xa, which in turn activates thrombin. Deficiency or dysfunction of the protein leads to hemophilia A, a common X‐linked disorder. Structures of two different constructs of factor VIII have been determined by X‐ray crystallography at intermediate resolutions. Both structures show that the protein is composed of five globular domains and contains binding sites for calcium and copper ions, which are important in the regulation of factor VIII structure and activity. The three A domains, each consists of two β‐barrel structures that resemble the cupredoxin fold, are structurally homologous with one other. The two homologous C domains are defined by a distorted β‐barrel and reveal membrane‐binding features. Comparison of the two crystal structures has revealed structural differences between the two constructs and provides new perspectives for understanding the activation of factor VIII and the role of metal ions in the regulation of factor VIII activity.
para‐AminobenzoateN‐Oxygenase
Authors: Zhao Huimin , Nair Satish K.
Published: December 2009

The monooxygenase AurF catalyzes the oxidation of a primary amine during the biosynthesis of the antibiotic aureothin. Biochemical reconstitution ofin vitroactivity demonstrates that AurF is a nonheme iron‐dependent enzyme. Crystallographic elucidation of the 3D structure reveals homology to the ribonucleotide reductase family of monooxygenases, despite a lack of appreciable similarity in the primary sequence.
4‐Hydroxybenzoyl‐CoenzymeAReductase
Authors: Boll Matthias
Published: December 2009

The dehydroxylating 4‐hydroxybenzoyl‐CoA reductase (HBCR) plays an important role in the degradation ofpara‐hydroxylated aromatic compounds in anaerobic bacteria. The enzyme catalyzes the removal of the phenolic hydroxyl group from 4‐hydroxybenzoyl‐CoA, yielding benzoyl‐CoA and water; a reduced ferredoxin serves as an electron donor. The enzyme belongs to the xanthine oxidase (XO) family of molybdenum cofactor containing enzymes and contains a molybdopterin‐cytosine dinucleotide cofactor, two [2Fe–2S] clusters, FAD and a [4Fe–4S] cluster per functional unit. HBCR is unique among XO family members in catalyzing the irreversible reduction of the substrate. A mechanism that differs from all other XO membersviahighly reactive radical intermediates has been suggested. The structural, electrochemical, spectroscopic, and kinetic properties of HBCR fromThauera aromaticaare highlighted and compared with other members of the xanthine oxidase family.
Hydroxyquinol 1,2‐Dioxygenase
Authors: Briganti Fabrizio , Ferraroni Marta
Published: December 2009

Hydroxyquinol 1,2‐dioxygenase (1,2‐HQD) is an intradiol dioxygenase that uses a nonheme ferric iron to activate the substrate for an electrophilic attack by molecular oxygen to cleave hydroxyquinol (1,2,4‐trihydroxybenzene) or chlorohydroxyquinols between the vicinal hydroxyls. This enzyme is involved in the aerobic metabolism of chloroaromatic compounds containing two or more chlorine substituents. The article focuses on the structure–function relationship of 1,2‐HQD and the comparison, at the molecular level, of the structural factors responsible for the differential substrate selectivity in known ring‐cleaving intradiol dioxygenases.
Sample Preparation For
X
‐Ray Fluorescence Analysis
Authors: Marguí Eva , Queralt Ignacio , Van Grieken René
Published: December 2009

This article contains a comprehensive review of sample preparation methods for various kinds of samples prior to X‐ray measurement. Not only commonly used methods are presented but also some specific techniques for certain kinds of materials are included, with emphasis on more recent applications and developments.
Novel Approaches in Low‐Cost, High‐Throughput Gene Sequencing
Authors: Wickramasinghe H. Kumar , Unal Kerem
Published: December 2009

Whole‐genome DNA sequencing is evolving from a costly collective effort, requiring the work of several laboratories in parallel, to a single‐user, single‐device laboratory tool. This technological revolution will open the realm of personal medicine where treatment of diseases are adjusted to suit the genetic background of an individual. Such a breakthrough in genetics can only be achieved through the advent of high‐throughput and affordable sequencing methods — some of which are detailed in this article.

Several particularly novel DNA sequencing concepts have been proposed to reach the $1000‐per‐genome goal. Cost reduction is envisioned by the use of massively parallel processes, where sequence information is obtained by detecting single DNA molecules or colonies of DNA strands amplified from single molecules. Other methods are based on the direct sequential readout of the genetic code on a single DNA strand, but the detection schemes currently lack the required single‐nucleotide resolution.

The article concludes by describing a nanotechnology‐based method for DNA sequencing at high throughput that couples a novel scheme for electrophoresis together with near‐field optical detection of separated bands at a sensitivity level down to a few molecules. With further development, the technology can evolve into a low‐cost sequencing scheme similar to the reliable and accurate four‐color DNA Sanger sequencing method.
Chiral Environmental Contaminants
Authors: Wong Charles S. , Elmayergi Basil H.
Published: December 2009

This article highlights techniques by which the enantiomers of chiral environmental pollutants can be separated and quantified. A large number of organic chemicals are chiral and exist as pairs of mirror images calledenantiomers. These chemicals include legacy persistent organic pollutants (POPs) (e.g. polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)) and pesticides (e.g. dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)), as well as current‐use pesticides (e.g. pyrethroids), flame retardants (e.g. hexabromocyclododecane), and pharmaceuticals (e.g. ibuprofen). Understanding the environmental behavior of chiral xenobiotic compounds is important because enantiomers of a chiral compound may have different biological and toxicological effects, which must be delineated for accurate risk assessment of hazards, if any, posed by such chemicals. In addition, chiral chemicals are markers of biochemical activity in the environment, as enantiomer compositions are unaffected by physical and chemical processes but can change from differential enantiomer interactions with other chiral molecules (e.g. enzymes). For these reasons, the chirality of environmental pollutant occurrence, fate, and effects has been studied since the 1990s, when analytical capacity to measure chiral chemicals became widely available. We discuss major techniques for separating pollutant enantiomers including gas chromatography (GC), high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and capillary electrophoresis (CE). Enantioselective analytical separations are often coupled to mass spectrometry (MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) for quantification under environmentally relevant conditions (i.e. low concentrations to parts per trillion and below, in highly complex matrices such as wastewater and biological tissues). Issues involving sample preparation, data handling, and quality assurance/quality control are also described. Finally, we also illustrate applications of enantiomer‐specific measurements to gain insights into pollutants affecting environmental processes that could otherwise not be obtained, such as assessing pollutant biodegradation and delineating pollutant sources.
Chemometric Approach to Chiral Recognition Using Molecular Spectroscopy
Authors: Fakayode Sayo O. , Busch Kenneth W. , Busch Marianna A.
Published: December 2009

Discrimination of enantiomers by means of a chiral auxiliary can be combined with ordinary molecular spectroscopy and regression modeling to provide a rapid spectroscopic method for the determination of enantiomeric composition of unknown samples. This technique is known aschiral analysis by regression modeling of spectral data(CARMSD). This article describes the basic principles of regression modeling and how regression modeling can be used with ordinary spectroscopic data to produce robust regression models that can predict the enantiomeric composition of unknown samples solely on the basis of their spectral signatures. A major advantage of CARMSD is that prior separation of the enantiomers is not a requirement.
Electrochemical Detection of Proteins
Authors: Bartošík Martin , Doneux Thomas , Pechan Zdeněk , Ostatná Veronika , Paleček Emil
Published: December 2009

The advantages of electrochemical methods, such as low cost, rapidity, and sensitivity, make these methods very promising in the booming fields of proteomics and biomedicine. Electroanalysis of proteins relies on redox properties of nonprotein centers within conjugated proteins, application of various labels attached to the protein molecule, or label‐free detection of nonconjugated proteins based on their intrinsic electroactivity. Until recently, electrochemistry of proteins was mainly focused on a relatively small group of conjugated proteins, yielding reversible electrochemistry. This article discusses the new methods that were developed to detect and analyze practically all proteins. Different strategies for electrochemical detection of proteins are presented. Electrode modification by biomolecular receptors (antibodies, aptamers) and their potential use for detection of specific proteins, e.g. disease markers, can be utilized in the development of various sensors. Label‐free electrochemical study of nonconjugated proteins, involving impedance measurements at various electrodes, faradaic signals of tyrosine and tryptophan residues at carbon electrodes and cysteine residues, and electrocatalytic signals at mercury and solid amalgam electrodes have been used. Among them, well‐developed chronopotentiometric peak (peak H) due to catalytic hydrogen evolution shows remarkable sensitivity to local and global changes in protein structure. Recent developments in protein electrochemistry open the way for application of electrochemical analysis in proteomics and biomedicine.
Optical Microscopy in Forensic Science
Authors: Wilson Lori J. , Wheeler Barbara P.
Published: December 2009

The microscope maintains a prominent position as an important tool for examination of trace amounts of evidence. The microscope is used by forensic scientists to locate, isolate, identify, and compare samples. Because of its low magnification, wide field of view, large working distance, and stereoscopic vision, the stereomicroscope is used for preliminary evidence evaluations. It also allows for comparative examinations for evidence such as paint, physical matches, questioned documents, and impression evidence. While the main advantage of the polarizing light microscope (PLM) is its use in the identification of samples, it is also used for comparison. The PLM offers higher magnification and provides information on the morphological, optical, chemical, and physical properties of the sample. Morphological properties are often used to identify and compare fibrous evidence such as human and animal hair as well as man‐made and natural fibers. Optical properties such as refractive index, birefringence, pleochroism, and interference figures are combined with morphological properties to compare and identify forensic samples. Particle identification and microcrystalline testing can be used to determine the chemical properties of various types of evidence. Finally, physical properties such as color, solubility, melting point, and boiling points can also be used to identify and compare forensic samples.
Microcrystalline Tests in Forensic Drug Analysis
Authors: Elie Mathieu P. , Elie Leonie E.
Published: December 2009

Drug detection in the forensic context requires numerous analytical techniques. Depending on locally adopted standard procedures, different techniques are used for screening solid samples for potential illicit substances (e.g. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR)). A sample suspected of containing prohibited material passes through another layer of techniques to confirm that the illegal substance is present and to identify it (e.g. liquid/gas chromatography). Finally, the drug is systematically quantified (e.g. mass spectrometry). Microcrystalline tests fall within the second step of this analytical process. They are low cost because of the minute amount of reagents used and the simplicity of the instrumentation and consumables required to perform the analysis. They offer all the features required by a good confirmation technique while being very fast to administer and interpret, although they do not offer quantification capabilities.

Microcrystalline tests are chemical tests resulting in the formation of unique microcrystals for a given substance when combined with a specific reagent. Microcrystals are observed under a microscope and micrographs or microvideos constitute the results of the test.

Thanks to the chemical mechanism by which microcrystals develop, microcrystalline tests can be applied to molecules of various sizes, shapes, charges, and with different functional groups, and can naturally distinguish between enantiomers.
Limit of Quantitation in Atomic Spectrometry–Concepts and Definitions
Authors: Mermet Jean‐Michel
Published: December 2009

Classical definition of the limit of quantitation (LOQ) based on 10 times the standard deviation (SD) of the blank fluctuations is described in terms of relation with the limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of guarantee of purity (LOG), including the use of hypothesis testing. Reliability of the determination of the SD of the blank is discussed in terms of Gaussian distribution, possible presence of outliers, and influence of the number of replicates. Following norms, various concepts of precision are defined, namely, instrumental repeatability, method repeatability, intermediate precision, and within‐ and between‐laboratory reproducibility. Trend to include systematic and random errors in the concept of LOQ is described with a discussion about the past and present meaning of accuracy. Because of the need to have a signal‐to‐concentration conversion, limitations resulting from the calibration graph are given.
Time‐Sequenced Prompt γ Neutron Activation Analysis
Authors: Mitra Sudeep
Published: December 2009

Time‐sequenced prompt‐ γ neutron activation analysis is a powerful nondestructive, elemental analysis tool that exploits the temporal characteristics of a nuclear reaction to enhance the capability for multielemental analyses. Usually, it encompasses a 14‐MeV neutron generator (NG), pulsed at a suitable frequency, such that the fast‐neutron‐induced reactions that occur concurrently with the neutron pulse are separated in time from slow neutron‐capture reactions that are delayed by the thermalization time of neutrons in the matrix of the interrogated sample. Time‐sequenced data acquisition, operating synchronously with the pulsing of the NG, partitions the characteristic elemental prompt γ‐rays according to the type of the reaction. In another approach, the so‐called associated particle technique, a specialized NG with a built‐in α particle detector exploits the deuterium–tritium fusion reaction that emits a 14‐MeV neutron and an α particle back‐to‐back. The direction of the neutron is deduced from detecting the α particle. This tagged neutron interacts with the interrogated object's nuclei and generates element‐specific prompt γ‐rays that are delayed by the neutron's time of flight. Detecting these γ‐rays concurrently with the α particles enables the investigator to identify the element with vastly improved signal‐to‐noise ratios compared to the pulsed technique, and helps to determine the site of origin of the particular γ‐ray.
Enzyme‐Based Nanoscale Composites for Use as Active Decontamination Surfaces
Authors: Dinu Cerasela Zoica , Zhu Guangyu , Bale Shyam Sundhar , Anand Gaurav , Reeder Philippa J. , Sanford Karl , Whited Gregg , Kane Ravi S. , Dordick Jonathan S.
Published: December 2009

Perhydrolase S54V (AcT) effectively catalyzes the perhydrolysis of propylene glycol diacetate (PGD) to generate peracetic acid (PAA). PAA is a potent oxidant used for sanitization and disinfection, with broad effectiveness against bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and spores. In this study, active and stable composites are developed by incorporating AcT–carbon nanotube conjugates into polymer and latex‐based paint. At a conjugate loading of 0.16% (w/v), the composite generated 11 mM PAA in 20 min, capable of killing more than 99% spores initially charged at 106 colony‐forming units per milliliter.
Comparison of activity coefficient models for electrolyte systems
Authors: Lin Yi , Kate Antoon ten , Mooijer Miranda , Delgado Javier , Fosbøl Philip Loldrup , Thomsen Kaj
Published: December 2009

Three activity coefficient models for electrolyte solutions were evaluated and compared. The activity coefficient models are: The electrolyte NRTL model (ElecNRTL) by Aspentech, the mixed solvent electrolyte model (MSE) by OLI Systems, and the Extended UNIQUAC model from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). Test systems containing a single salt (NaCl), multiple salts, and mixed solvent aqueous electrolyte solutions were chosen. The performance of the activity coefficient models were compared regarding the accuracy of solid–liquid and vapor–liquid equilibrium calculations for the test systems. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Importance of NADPH supply for improved L‐valine formation in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Bartek Tobias , Blombach Bastian , Zönnchen Enrico , Makus Pia , Lang Siegmund , Eikmanns Bernhard J. , Oldiges Marco
Published: December 2009

Cofactor recycling is known to be crucial for amino acid synthesis. Hence, cofactor supply was now analyzed for L‐valine to identify new targets for an improvement of production. The central carbon metabolism was analyzed by stoichiometric modeling to estimate the influence of cofactors and to quantify the theoretical yield of L‐valine on glucose. Three different optimal routes for L‐valine biosynthesis were identified by elementary mode (EM) analysis. The modes differed mainly in the manner of NADPH regeneration, substantiating that the cofactor supply may be crucial for efficient L‐valine production. Although the isocitrate dehydrogenase as an NADPH source within the tricarboxylic acid cycle only enables an L‐valine yield of YVal/Glc = 0.5 mol L‐valine/mol glucose (mol Val/mol Glc), the pentose phosphate pathway seems to be the most promising NADPH source. Based on the theoretical calculation of EMs, the gene encoding phosphoglucoisomerase (PGI) was deleted to achieve this EM with a theoretical yield YVal/Glc = 0.86 mol Val/mol Glc during the production phase. The intracellular NADPH concentration was significantly increased in the PGI‐deficient mutant. L‐Valine yield increased from 0.49 ± 0.13 to 0.67 ± 0.03 mol Val/mol Glc, and, concomitantly, the formation of by‐products such as pyruvate was reduced. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2010
Communications between the palmar digital branches of the median and ulnar nerves: A study in human fetuses and a review of the literature
Authors: Unver Dogan Nadire , Uysal Ismihan Ilknur , Karabulut Ahmet Kagan , Seker Muzaffer , Ziylan Taner
Published: December 2009

In this study, median nerves (MNs) and ulnar nerves (UNs) were dissected in 200 palmar sides of hands (left and right) of 100 (50 male, 50 female) spontaneously aborted fetuses with no detectable malformations. The fetuses, whose gestational ages ranged from 13 to 40 weeks, were dissected under an operating microscope. The MN divided first into a lateral ramus and a medial ramus and then formed a common digital nerve. The first common digital nerve trifurcated in all of the studied cases. The branching patterns were classified into two types (Type 1 and Type 2) based on the relationship with the flexor retinaculum (behind/distal of it). A communication branch between the UNs and MNs in the palmar surface of the hand was found in 59 hands (29.5%). The proper palmar digital nerves were numbered from p1 to p10, starting from the radial half of the thumb to the ulnar half of the little finger, and these nerves exhibited six types of variations. The present data obtained from human fetuses will aid in elucidating the developmental anatomy of the nervous system and provide hand surgeons with a more complete anatomical picture to help them to avoid iatrogenic injuries. Clin. Anat. 23:234–241, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: Endohedral Metalloborofullerenes La2@B80 andSc3N@B80: A Density Functional Theory Prediction.
Authors: Jin Peng , Hao Ce , Gao Zhanxian , Zhang Shengbai B. , Chen Zhongfang
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Preparation and Photoluminescence Characteristics of a New Promising Red NUV Phosphor CaTiO3:Eu3+.
Authors: Fu Jiapeng , Zhang Qinghong , Li Yaogang , Wang Hongzhi
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Proton Conduction in BaCe1‐xGdxO3‐α at Intermediate Temperature and Its Application to Synthesis of Ammonia at Atmospheric Pressure.
Authors: Chen Cheng , Ma Guilin
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: LiMn0.8Fe0.2PO4: An Advanced Cathode Material for Rechargeable Lithium Batteries.
Authors: Martha Surendra K. , Grinblat Judith , Haik Ortal , Zinigrad Ella , Drezen Thierry , Miners James H. , Exnar Ivan , Kay Andreas , Markovsky Boris , Aurbach Doron
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Fabrication of CaFe2O4/MgFe2O4 Bulk Heterojunction for Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalysis.
Authors: Kim Hyun Gyu , Borse Pramod H. , Jang Jum Suk , Jeong Euh Duck , Jung Ok‐Sang , Suh Yong Jae , Lee Jae Sung
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Si94‐ Anions in Solution — Structures of the Solvates Rb4Si9·4.75NH3 and [Rb(18‐crown‐6)]Rb3Si9·4NH3, and Chemical Bonding in Si94‐.
Authors: Joseph Stefanie , Suchentrunk Christof , Kraus Florian , Korber Nikolaus
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: New Organically Templated Vanadium Tellurites: (H2pn)[V2TeO8] (pn Is Propane‐1,3‐diamine).
Authors: Huang Xihe , Liu Zhongqian , Huang Changcang , Shen Lijuan , Yan Xiaobao
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Selective Cyclodimerization and Cyclotrimerization of Acetals Bearing Electron‐Withdrawing Groups Catalyzed by Lewis Acids.
Authors: Maeda Sayuki , Obora Yasushi , Ishii Yasutaka
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Nickel‐Catalyzed Borylative Ring Opening of Vinyl Epoxides and Aziridines.
Authors: Crotti Stefano , Bertolini Ferruccio , Macchia Franco , Pineschi Mauro
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Ketoximes to N‐Substituted Thioamides via PSCl3 Mediated Beckmann Rearrangement.
Authors: Pathak Uma , Pandey Lokesh Kumar , Mathur Sweta , Suryanarayana M. V. S.
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient Aerobic Oxidation of Alcohols Using a Hydrotalcite‐Supported Gold Nanoparticle Catalyst.
Authors: Mitusdome Takato , Noujima Akifumi , Mizugaki Tomoo , Jitsukawa Koichiro , Kaneda Kiyotomi
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Ammonia‐Free Birch Reductions with Sodium Stabilized in Silica Gel, Na—SG(1).
Authors: Costanzo Michael J. , Patel Mitul N. , Petersen Kathryn A. , Vogt Paul F.
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Rapid and Efficient Synthesis of Bromohydrins from Olefins under HBr/H2O2 System by Visible Light Induced.
Authors: Tang Rui Ren , Gong Nian Hua
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: TBAF‐Assisted Copper‐Catalyzed N‐Arylation and Benzylation of Benzazoles with Aryl and Benzyl Halides under the Ligand/Base/Solvent‐Free Conditions.
Authors: Lee Hyung‐Geun , Won Ju‐Eun , Kim Min‐Jung , Park Song‐Eun , Jung Kwang‐Ju , Kim Bo Ram , Lee Sang‐Gyeong , Yoon Yong‐Jin
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalysis of Mukaiyama Aldol Reactions by a Tricyclic Aluminum Alkoxide Lewis Acid.
Authors: Raders Steven M. , Verkade John G.
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Use of Potassium β‐Trifluoroborato Amides in Suzuki—Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reactions.
Authors: Molander Gary A. , Jean‐Gerard Ludivine
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantio‐ and Diastereoselective Asymmetric Addition of 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds to Nitroalkenes in a Doubly Stereocontrolled Manner Catalyzed by Bifunctional Rosin‐Derived Amine Thiourea Catalysts.
Authors: Jiang Xianxing , Zhang Yifu , Liu Xing , Zhang Gen , Lai Luhao , Wu Lipeng , Zhang Jiannan , Wang Rui
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Aminocarbonylations of Alkenyl Phosphates, Chlorides, Bromides, and Triflates with Mo(CO)6 as a Solid CO Source.
Authors: Lagerlund Olof , Mantel Mette L. H. , Larhed Mats
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Ketones from Carboxylic Acids with R(PrNH)Mg.
Authors: Ohki Maria , Asaoka Morio
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Some Novel Barbituric Acid and 1,3‐Cyclohexanedione Based Condensed Heterocycles.
Authors: Sachar Anand , Gupta Poonam , Gupta Shallu , Sharma R. L.
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.