bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connexin 43 mediates endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor-induced vasodilatation in subcutaneous resistance arteries from healthy pregnant women
Authors: Lang Ninian N. , Luksha Leonid , Newby David E. , Kublickiene Karolina
Published: November 2006

The role of gap junctions in endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF)-mediated relaxation of human arteries was assessed using connexin mimetic peptides (CMPs) designated 37,43Gap27, 40Gap27, and 43Gap26 according to homology with the major vascular connexins (Cx37, Cx40, and Cx43). Resistance arteries were obtained from subcutaneous fat biopsies of healthy pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean section. Endothelium-dependent vasodilatation to bradykinin (BK) was assessed using wire myography. Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) and indomethacin (nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase inhibitors, respectively) attenuated maximal relaxation to BK (Rmax) by ∼50%. Coincubation with l-NAME, indomethacin, and the combined CMPs (37,43Gap27, 40Gap27, and 43Gap26) almost abolished relaxation to BK (Rmax = 12.2 ± 3.7%). In arteries incubated with l-NAME and indomethacin, the addition of either 37,43Gap27 or 40Gap27 had no significant effect on Rmax, whereas 43Gap26 caused marked inhibition (Rmax = 21 ± 6.4%, P = 0.005 vs. l-NAME plus indomethacin alone) that was similar to that of the triple combination. Endothelium-independent vasorelaxation was unaffected by CMPs, l-NAME, or indomethacin. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated Cx37, Cx40, and Cx43 expression in the endothelium and vascular smooth muscle. In pregnant women, EDHF-mediated vasorelaxation of subcutaneous resistance arteries is dependent on Cx43 and gap junctions.
Potentiation of the antihypertensive action of losartan by peripheral overexpression of the ANG II type 2 receptor
Authors: Li Hongwei , Gao Yongxin , Grobe Justin L. , Raizada Mohan K. , Katovich Michael J. , Sumners Colin
Published: November 2006

Our previous studies demonstrated that peripheral overexpression of angiotensin II (ANG II) type 2 receptors (AT2R) prevents hypertension-induced cardiac hypertrophy and remodeling without altering high blood pressure. This, coupled with the observations that AT2R play a role in the antihypertensive actions of ANG II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blockers (ARBs), led us to propose that peripheral overexpression of AT2R would improve the antihypertensive action of losartan (Los) in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats made hypertensive via chronic infusion of ANG II. Here we utilized adenoviral vector-mediated AT2R gene transfer to test this hypothesis. A single intracardiac injection of adenoviral vector containing genomic AT2R (G-AT2R) DNA and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) gene controlled by cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoters (Ad-G-AT2R-EGFP; 5 × 109infectious units) into adult SD rats produced robust AT2R overexpression in cardiovascular tissues (kidney, lung, heart, aorta, mesenteric artery, and renal artery) that persisted for 3–5 days postinjection. By 7 days post viral injection, the overexpressed AT2R are reduced toward basal values in certain tissues (lung, kidney, and heart) and are undetectable in others (kidney and blood vessels). In two separate protocols, we demonstrated that the hypotensive effect of Los (0.125, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/kg iv) was significantly greater in the AT2R-overexpressing animals (−40.7 ± 4.3, −41.8 ± 4.8, and −48.1 ± 2.6 mmHg, respectively) compared with control vector (Ad-CMV-EGFP)-treated rats (−12.4 ± 2.2, −20.2 ± 3.4, and −27.3 ± 3.4 mmHg, respectively). These results provide support for a depressor role of AT2R and the proposal that combined AT2R agonist and ARB treatment may be an improved therapeutic strategy for controlling hypertension.
Contribution of both Ca2+entry and Ca2+sensitization to the α1-adrenergic vasoconstriction of rat penile small arteries
Authors: Villalba Nuria , Stankevicius Edgaras , Garcia-Sacristán Albino , Simonsen Ulf , Prieto Dolores
Published: November 2006

Sympathetic adrenergic nerves maintain the flaccid state of the penis through the tonic release of norepinephrine that contracts trabecular and arterial smooth muscle. Simultaneous measurements of intracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i) and tension and experiments with α-toxin-permeabilized arteries were performed in branches of the rat dorsal penile artery to investigate the intracellular Ca2+signaling pathways underlying α1-adrenergic vasoconstriction. Phenylephrine increased both [Ca2+]iand tension, these increases being abolished by extracellular Ca2+removal and reduced by about 50% by the L-type Ca2+channel blocker nifedipine (0.3 μM). Non-L-type Ca2+entry through store-operated channels was studied by inhibiting the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase with cyclopiazonic acid (CPA). CPA (30 μM) induced variable phasic contractions that were abolished by extracellular Ca2+removal and by the store-operated channels antagonist 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB, 50 μM) and largely inhibited by nifedipine (0.3 μM). CPA induced a sustained increase in [Ca2+]ithat was reduced in a Ca2+-free medium. Under conditions of L-type channels blockade, Ca2+readmission after store depletion with CPA evoked a sustained and marked elevation in [Ca2+]inot coupled to contraction. 2-APB (50 μM) inhibited the rise in [Ca2+]ievoked by CPA and the nifedipine-insensitive increases in both [Ca2+]iand contraction elicited by phenylephrine. In α-toxin-permeabilized penile arteries, activation of G proteins with guanosine 5′- O-(3-thiotriphosphate) and of the α1-adrenoceptor with phenylephrine both enhanced the myofilament sensitivity to Ca2+. This Ca2+sensitization was reduced by selective inhibitors of PKC, tyrosine kinase (TK), and Rho kinase (RhoK) by 43%, 67%, and 82%, respectively. As a whole, the present data suggest the α1-adrenergic vasoconstriction in penile small arteries involves Ca2+entry through both L-type and 2-APB-sensitive receptor-operated channels, as well as Ca2+sensitization mechanisms mediated by PKC, TK, and RhoK. A capacitative Ca2+entry coupled to noncontractile functions of the smooth muscle cell is also demonstrated.
Lung inflammation and vascular remodeling after repeated allergen challenge detected noninvasively by MRI
Authors: Tigani Bruno , Cannet Catherine , Karmouty-Quintana Harry , Blé François-Xavier , Zurbruegg Stefan , Schaeublin Elisabeth , Fozard John R. , Beckmann Nicolau
Published: November 2006

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used previously to follow noninvasively inflammatory processes in rat acute models of lung inflammation. Here the technique was applied to a model involving repeated intratracheal administration of ovalbumin (OA). Anatomical MRI was performed at different time points with respect to a single or multiple OA challenges in Brown Norway rats actively sensitized to the allergen. Vascular permeability was assessed using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid analysis and histology were performed to validate the MRI data. The time course of MRI signals after a single OA challenge reached a maximum at 48 h and decreased significantly at 96 h. After the second and subsequent challenges, the maximum signal occurred at 6 h with a time-dependent decline over the remainder of the time course. A reduction of the inflammatory response following repeated administration of OA was also detected by BAL fluid analysis. The decrease in vascular permeability assessed by DCE-MRI in repeatedly OA-challenged rats was consistent with the thickening of the vascular wall for vessels of diameter up to 300 μm revealed by histology. Angiogenesis of vessels smaller than 30 μm was also detected histologically. These results suggest that MRI can be used to detect the inflammatory response and vascular remodeling associated with chronic airway inflammation in rat models involving repeated administration of allergen. As the contrast agent used in the DCE-MRI experiments is approved for clinical use, there is potential to translate the approach to patients.
Anti-inflammatory effects of zinc and alterations in zinc transporter mRNA in mouse models of allergic inflammation
Authors: Lang Carol , Murgia Chiara , Leong Mary , Tan Lor-Wai , Perozzi Giuditta , Knight Darryl , Ruffin Richard , Zalewski Peter
Published: November 2006

There is clinical evidence linking asthma with the trace element, zinc (Zn). Using a mouse model of allergic inflammation, we have previously shown that labile Zn decreases in inflamed airway epithelium (Truong-Tran AQ, Ruffin RE, Foster PS, Koskinen AM, Coyle P, Philcox JC, Rofe AM, Zalewski PD. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 27: 286–296, 2002). Moreover, mild nutritional Zn deficiency worsens lung function. Recently, a number of proteins belonging to the Solute Carrier Family 39 (ZIP) and Solute Carrier Family 30 (ZnT) have been identified that bind Zn and regulate Zn homeostasis. Mice were sensitized, and subsequently aerochallenged, with ovalbumin to induce acute and chronic airway inflammation. Mice received 0, 54, or 100 μg of Zn intraperitoneally. Tissues were analyzed for Zn content and histopathology. Inflammatory cells were counted in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Cytokine and Zn transporter mRNA levels were determined by cDNA gene array and/or real-time PCR. Zn supplementation decreased bronchoalveolar lavage fluid eosinophils by 40 and 80%, and lymphocytes by 55 and 66%, in the acute and chronic models, respectively. Alterations in Zn transporter expression were observed during acute inflammation, including increases in ZIP1 and ZIP14 and decreases in ZIP4 and ZnT4. Zn supplementation normalized ZIP1 and ZIP14, but it did not affect mRNA levels of cytokines or their receptors. Our results indicate that inflammation-induced alterations in Zn transporter gene expression are directed toward increasing Zn uptake. Increases in Zn uptake may be needed to counteract the local loss of Zn in the airway and to meet an increased demand for Zn-dependent proteins. The reduction of inflammatory cells by Zn in the airways provides support for Zn supplementation trials in human asthmatic individuals.
17β-Estradiol inhibits keratinocyte-derived chemokine production following trauma-hemorrhage
Authors: Frink Michael , Thobe Bjoern M. , Hsieh Ya-Ching , Choudhry Mashkoor A. , Schwacha Martin G. , Bland Kirby I. , Chaudry Irshad H.
Published: November 2006

Neutrophil infiltration is a key step in the development of organ dysfunction following trauma-hemorrhage (T-H). Although we have previously shown that 17β-estradiol (E2) prevents neutrophil infiltration and organ damage following T-H, the mechanism by which E2 inhibits neutrophil transmigration remains unknown. We hypothesized that E2 prevents neutrophil infiltration via modulation of keratinocyte-derived chemokine (KC), a major attractant for neutrophils. To examine this, male C3H/HeN mice were subjected to T-H or sham operation and thereafter resuscitated with Ringer lactate and E2 (1 mg/kg body wt) or vehicle. Animals were killed 2 h after resuscitation, and Kupffer cells were isolated. Plasma levels and Kupffer cell production capacities of KC, TNF-α, and IL-6 were determined by BD Cytometric Bead Arrays; lung mRNA expression of KC was measured with real-time PCR; myeloperoxidase activity assays were performed to determine neutrophil infiltration, and organ damage was assessed by edema formation. Treatment with E2 decreased systemic levels and restored Kupffer cell production of KC, TNF-α, and IL-6, as well as KC gene expression and protein in the lung. This was accompanied with a decrease in neutrophil infiltration and edema formation in the lung. These results suggest that E2 prevents lung neutrophil infiltration and organ damage in part by decreasing KC during posttraumatic immune response.
Transcriptome changes in the phenylpropanoid pathway of Glycine max in response to Pseudomonas syringaeinfection
Authors: Zabala Gracia , Zou Jijun , Tuteja Jigyasa , Gonzalez Delkin O , Clough Steven J , Vodkin Lila O
Published: November 2006

Background

Reports of plant molecular responses to pathogenic infections have pinpointed increases in activity of several genes of the phenylpropanoid pathway leading to the synthesis of lignin and flavonoids. The majority of those findings were derived from single gene studies and more recently from several global gene expression analyses. We undertook a global transcriptional analysis focused on the response of genes of the multiple branches of the phenylpropanoid pathway to infection by the Pseudomonas syringae pv. glycinea with or without the avirulence gene avrB to characterize more broadly the contribution of the multiple branches of the pathway to the resistance response in soybean. Transcript abundance in leaves was determined from analysis of soybean cDNA microarray data and hybridizations to RNA blots with specific gene probes.

Results

The majority of the genes surveyed presented patterns of increased transcript accumulation. Some increased rapidly, 2 and 4 hours after inoculation, while others started to accumulate slowly by 8 – 12 hours. In contrast, transcripts of a few genes decreased in abundance 2 hours post inoculation. Most interestingly was the opposite temporal fluctuation in transcript abundance between early responsive genes in defense (CHS and IFS1) and F3H, the gene encoding a pivotal enzyme in the synthesis of anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins and flavonols. F3H transcripts decreased rapidly 2 hours post inoculation and increased during periods when CHS and IFS transcripts decreased. It was also determined that all but one (CHS4) family member genes (CHS1, CHS2, CHS3, CHS5, CHS6 and CHS7/8) accumulated higher transcript levels during the defense response provoked by the avirulent pathogen challenge.

Conclusion

Based on the mRNA profiles, these results show the strong bias that soybean has towards increasing the synthesis of isoflavonoid phytoalexins concomitant with the down regulation of genes required for the synthesis of anthocyanins and proanthocyanins. Although proanthocyanins are known to be toxic compounds, the cells in the soybean leaves seem to be programmed to prioritize the synthesis and accumulation of isoflavonoid and pterocarpan phytoalexins during the resistance response. It was known that CHS transcripts accumulate in great abundance rapidly after inoculation of the soybean plants but our results have demonstrated that all but one (CHS4) member of the gene family member genes accumulated higher transcript levels during the defense response.
On the Lo/σ Range of the TVFM
Authors: Carrott P.J.M. , Cansado I.P.P. , Carrott M.M.L. Ribeiro
Published: November 2006

Adsorption isotherms of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, methanol, dichloromethane, benzene and neopentane were determined on a range of molecular sieve and super-activated carbons with the objective of establishing the range of validity of the Theory of Volume Filling of Micropores (TVFM) in terms of the ratio of pore width to molecular diameter, Lo/σ. It is shown that, in the absence of molecular-sieving effects, both the characteristic curve concept and the DR equation are valid over the whole of the micropore range, corresponding to values of Lo/σ less than or equal to 5 and to at least a slight enhancement in the characteristic energy, E0, of the adsorbent when compared with the corresponding value obtained with non-porous carbon blacks. On the other hand, estimation of the mean micropore width was only possible for values of Lo/σ up to ca. 2.3, corresponding to at least a two-fold enhancement in E0. Results obtained using N2 at 77 K showed some significant differences to those obtained with organic adsorptives at higher temperature.
Adsorption of Toxic Metal Ions onto Silica with Covalently Bound 8-Hydroxyquinoline
Authors: Yanovska E.S. , Glushchenko O.V. , Karmanov V.I. , Kichkiruk O.Yu. , Tertykh V.A.
Published: November 2006

8-Hydroxyquinoline covalently bound to silica via a one-stage Mannich reaction was used as an adsorbent for the pre-concentration of Pb(II), Cd(II), Zn(II) and Mo(VI) ions from aqueous solutions in the dynamic mode following determination of their concentrations by X-ray fluorescence methods. The adsorption of Pb(II), Cd(II), Zn(II) and Mo(VI) ions was studied from individual and complex multi-component solutions of both natural and technogenic origins. Peculiarities associated with the simultaneous X-ray fluorescence determination of mixtures of toxic metal ions in a solid matrix are discussed.
Sorption of Lead Ions from Aqueous Solution by Chickpea Leaves, Stems and Fruit Peelings
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad , Tan I.B. , Haq M.R.U. , Shahid S.A. , Shah S.S. , McKay G.
Published: November 2006

Leaves, stems and fruit peelings of chickpea (Cicer arientinum L.) were successfully utilized for the accumulation of lead ions from aqueous solutions onto their surfaces. The rate and extent of accumulation were affected by pH, particle size, contact time and the initial concentration of Pb(II) ions, respectively. The sorption capacities of leaves, stems and fruit peelings towards Pb(II) ions were found to be 81.30, 80.10 and 53.26%, respectively, at an initial Pb(II) ion concentration of 200 mg/dm3, optimum pH conditions of 6.0, a particle size of 0.354 mm and a contact time of 120 min. Most of the sorption occurred within the first 15 min and attained a maximum value after 120 min. The Bangham equation was used to express the adsorption mechanism. The adsorption rates of Pb(II) ions were found to decrease in the order: leaves > stems > fruit peelings. Possible cell–metal ion interactions may be due to the involvement of –COOH, –OH and –NH groups in the sorption process. The obtained sorption data were well fitted by the Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherms, respectively. The results showed that chickpea leaves and stems behave as good adsorbents for the removal of Pb(II) ions from aqueous solution.
Adsorption of Chiral 2,2‘-Substituted-1,1’-Binaphthalenes onto Silica-Supported Palladium and Nickel
Authors: Jackson S. David , Webb Geoffrey , Young Nicola C.
Published: November 2006

The nature of the adsorption of a series of 2,2‘-substituted-1,1’-binaphthalenes over supported palladium and nickel catalysts has been studied. Adsorption has been shown to occur through the 2,2‘-substituted functional groups. Where this is not possible, no adsorption of the binaphthyl is observed. Adsorption of 2,2’-diamino-1,1’-binaphthalene occurred solely on the metal components of the catalysts. However, total coverage of the metal surface was not obtained, with only specific sites being available for adsorption. Adsorption of 2,2‘-dihydroxy-1,1’-binaphthalene occurred on the metal components but also spilled over onto the support. Adsorption was detected for 2-hydroxy-2‘-methoxy-1,1’-binaphthalene but no spill-over was observed, indicating that both hydroxy groups are involved in the spill-over process. Co-adsorption and sequential adsorption studies revealed that there are a variety of adsorption sites that favour different binaphthyls.
Influence of Water on the Dynamic Adsorption of Chlorinated VOCs on Active Carbon: Relative Humidity of the Gas Phase versus Pre-Adsorbed Water
Authors: Cosnier F. , Celzard A. , Furdin G. , Bégin D. , Marêché J.F.
Published: November 2006

The present work deals with the influence of water on the adsorption of two chlorinated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on activated carbons (ACs) having very different pore textures and surface chemistry. Two kinds of moisture were considered, viz. pre-adsorbed on the AC or present as steam in the gaseous phase, at various relative humidities ranging from 30% to 75%.

It is shown that the adsorption of the VOCs depends on the kind of moisture. If the latter is pre-adsorbed, water is just displaced by the VOCs (overshoot). The adsorption capacities of the AC remain unchanged and only some minor changes in the shape of the breakthrough front, corresponding to hindered diffusion, may sometimes occur.

In contrast, the simultaneous adsorption of steam and VOC leads to competition between water and the chlorinated compound, with direct consequences on the adsorption kinetics and capacities of the AC. However, the decrease of the water-induced adsorption performances depends strongly on the AC and the VOC (through different VOC/AC and water/VOC interactions), and on the concentration of the VOC.
Seismic Performance of RC Coupled Short-Pier Shear Walls with Concealed Bracing
Authors: Cao W. L. , Zhang J. W. , Xue S. D. , Chang W. H.
Published: November 2006

The RC short-pier shear wall structure is a new type of structural system in tall residential buildings. It has been applied in many buildings in China, but its seismic performance is worse than that of normal shear wall structures. Therefore, how to improve its seismic performance becomes a problem which has been paid much attention by engineers. In this paper, the seismic performance of short-pier shear walls with concealed bracing is investigated. An experimental study of four 1:3 scale coupled short-pier shear wall specimens has been carried out, two of which were normal coupled short-pier shear walls, and the other two coupled short-pier shear walls with concealed bracing. Based upon the experimental study, the effects of concealed bracing on the load-carrying capacity, stiffness, ductility, hysteretic behavior, energy dissipation and failure mechanism of shear wall are discussed. It is shown that the seismic performance of short-pier shear walls is greatly improved by concealed bracing. Finally, mechanical models for calculating the load-carrying capacity of the shear wall are proposed, and the theoretical results agree well with those from experiments.
Direct Design of Partially Prestressed Concrete Hollow Beams
Authors: Alnuaimi A. S. , Bhatt P.
Published: November 2006

Tests were conducted on three hollow partially prestressed concrete beams subjected to combined loading in bending, shear and torsion. The beams were designed using the Direct Design Method which is based on the Lower Bound Theorem of the Theory of Plasticity. All beams were of 300 × 300 mm cross-section, 3.8 m in length, and possessed a 200 × 200 mm hollow core and 50 mm wall thickness. The two main variables studied were the ratio in the web of the maximum shear stress due to the twisting moment, to the shear stress arising from the shear force, which varied between 1.09 and 6.85, and the ratio of the maximum twisting moment to the maximum bending moment which varied between 0.35 and 2.62. Good agreement was found between design and experimental failure loads. All beams failed near the design loads and underwent ductile behaviour up to failure. The results indicate that the Direct Design Method can be successfully used to design partially prestressed concrete hollow beams which will cater for the combined effect of bending, shear and torsion loads.
Fundamental Principles That Govern Retrofitting of Reinforced Concrete Columns by Steel and FRP Jacketing
Authors: Wu Yu-Fei , Liu Tao , Oehlers Deric J.
Published: November 2006

Extensive investigations on seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete columns have been undertaken in recent years and many retrofitting methods have been developed and reported in the literature. However contradictory results and conclusions are not rare especially for jacketing of rectilinear columns, and there is not a clear picture on the current state-of-the-art in the literature. This work is based on the review and assessment of more than 120 papers, and collection and analysis of more than 700 column tests. In combination with the authors' original theoretical studies and experimental testing, this work identifies the key factors that affect the effectiveness and deficiencies of different retrofitting techniques and provides engineers with a clearer picture on the capabilities of different retrofitting techniques, in particular how to improve the effectiveness of a jacketing system. From the theoretical studies, this work also provides researchers with fundamental insight and principles that govern the retrofitting of RC columns, which shed light on the development of new models and identification of further research subjects.
Flange Strain Measurement in Shear Critical RC T-Beams
Authors: Giaccio Craig , Al-Mahaidi Riadh , Taplin Geoff
Published: November 2006

This paper provides an analysis of the strain measurements and distributions obtained from testing two reinforced concrete T-beam specimens for the purpose of assessing the contribution of the flange to the shear strength. The specimens were instrumented throughout the flange and the compressive zone of the web region in order to obtain comprehensive data required for the understanding of shear resistance mechanisms and quantification of the flange contribution to the shear resistance of reinforced concrete T-beams. It was found that the formation of shear cracking results in significant redistributions of strain through the measured region. Redistributions of compressive strains transversely away from the web region and vertically away from the top surface of the flange were observed. The resulting distributions throughout the specimen were highly nonlinear. In light of the results of this investigation, the assumptions made in the application of existing methods available for prediction of the shear resistance of reinforced concrete T-beams are discussed, and proposed improvements to these methods are also discussed.
Structural Damage Detection by Integrating Data Fusion and Probabilistic Neural Network
Authors: Jiang Shao-Fei , Zhang Chun-Ming , Koh C. G.
Published: November 2006

Over the past two decades, multi-sensor data fusion method has attracted increasing attention to structural health monitoring due to its inherent capabilities in extracting information from different sources and integrating them into a consistent, accurate and intelligible data set. Meanwhile, since the probabilistic neural network (PNN) describes measurement data in a Bayesian probabilistic approach, it has been successfully applied to structural damage detection (Jiang et al. 2004; Klenke et al. 1996; Ko et al. 1999; Ni et al. 2001). In order to make full use of multi-sensor data (or information) from multi-resource and to improve the diagnosis accuracy of the health conditions for complex structures, it is advisable to combine these methods and exploit their individual advantages. In this paper, a 5-phase complex structural damage detection method by integrating data fusion and PNN is developed and implemented. The proposed method is then applied to damage detection and identification of two simulation examples. The result shows that the proposed method is feasible and effective for damage identification.
Performance of Steel Beam-To-Column Connections with Weld Defects under Inelastic Cyclic Loading
Authors: Kiral Binnur Goren , Erim Secil
Published: November 2006

This study concerns the development of steel structures so that the connections can deform plastically without brittle fracture during an earthquake. Under earthquake loads, welded beam-to-column connections containing crack-like defects in the weld region have been studied using 3-D nonlinear finite element analyses. The effect of the connection type used for a welded steel structure and of the dynamic loading nature on the stress-strain distribution has been examined, as well as the fracture behaviour of the whole structure. Nonlinear finite element analyses were repeated for various frequency values for the different loading cases in order to study the effect of the strain rate.
Book Reviews
Authors: Lindsay Geoff
Published: November 2006

Ethics in plain English: An illustrative casebook for psychologists (2nd ed.)
Block merging for off‐line compression
Authors: Wan Raymond , Moffat Alistair
Published: November 2006

To bound memory consumption, most compression systems provide a facility that controls the amount of data that may be processed at once—usually as a block size, but sometimes as a direct megabyte limit. In this work we consider the Re‐Pair mechanism of Larsson and Moffat (2000), which processes large messages as disjoint blocks to limit memory consumption. We show that the blocks emitted by Re‐Pair can be postprocessed to yield further savings, and describe techniques that allow files of 500 MB or more to be compressed in a holistic manner using less than that much main memory. The block merging process we describe has the additional advantage of allowing new text to be appended to the end of the compressed file.
Are practitioners incorporating a strengths‐focused approach when working with multi‐problem poor families?
Authors: Sousa Liliana , Ribeiro Cláudia , Rodrigues Sofia
Published: November 2006

Multi‐problem poor families have been characterized as dysfunctional and chaotic, and problem‐centred interventions have been developed. However, the activation of families' strengths has shown itself to be an important tool for intervention, hence the relevance of promoting the incorporation of a strengths‐focused approach. So, it becomes important to determine to what extent practitioners are thinking of incorporating a strengths‐focused approach when working with these families. To achieve this goal, a semi‐structured interview was administered to 23 practitioners. The findings suggest that practitioners are able to identify strengths but do not think in a strengths‐focused way. The main obstacles are: ambiguity in the definition of strengths, a focus on problems, lack of confidence in the possibility of improvement in the lives of families. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Benefits of design modifications to the Birkbeck bedload sampler illustrated by flash‐floods in an ephemeral gravel‐bed channel
Authors: Bergman Nathaniel , Laronne Jonathan B. , Reid Ian
Published: November 2006

The benefits of three simple modifications to the design of a Birkbeck bedload slot‐sampling system that has been continuously operating in Nahal Eshtemoa, Israel, since the early 1990s are demonstrated. The modifications include the deployment of a removable slot cover which delays the accumulation of sediment, so allowing sampling at late stages of a flood and, in conjunction with other samplers, extending the period of sampling during a flood wave; inclusion of a slot the size of which is adjustable so that that the probability of sampling the largest clast sizes in transit as bedload can be increased post‐installation, once knowledge is gained about the bedload grain‐size distribution; and a sampler side‐wall door that allows stratification and textural changes within the accumulated bedload to be identified, so promoting intelligent sampling of the deposit for grain‐size determination. Results from seven flash‐floods are presented and discussed, with recommendations for bedload monitoring, particularly in rivers where sediment flux is high and dynamic sediment records are inevitably short because of instrumental limitations. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The application of carnation in perfumery
Authors: Anonis Danute Pajaujis
Published: November 2006

Carnation, Dianthus caryophyllus L., which originated in the Mediterranean countries, holds an important place in perfumery. Southern France, Italy, Egypt, and Kenya are now the main sources of carnation flowers for perfumery use. The flowers are extracted with volatile solvents, yielding carnation concrete, which on treatment with alcohol, gives carnation absolute.

Until the 1930s, only a few components of steam‐distilled carnation oil were known. Carnation was not the subject of further research until in the 1980s over a hundred components were revealed in the steam‐distilled oil and in Egyptian carnation absolute. The difference in chemical compositions of absolutes and steam‐distilled oils, obtained from flowers cultivated in Kenya, Egypt and in South of France was also shown. Carnation absolute is very expensive, therefore synthetic carnation compounds have been developed, the main components being eugenol and its derivatives combined with salicylates, benzoates and rose components. Few illustrative conventional carnation formulas are shown. More recent carnation compounds include newer aromatics, amongst which cis‐hex‐3‐enyl esters are important. At the beginning of this century, pure concentrated carnation essence were used as perfumes. Later, carnation absolute served as modifier in many perfume compositions.

Early carnation fragrances were based mostly on a few natural perfume materials, including carnation absolute. Later, a few essential oils and aromatics were added as they became available. Examples of carnation perfumes are given. In the late 1930s, alcohol‐free perfume concentrates were developed, among them carnation. Spicy notes are appealing to men, and many men's fragrances, ranging from the early to the sophisticated modern formulations contain carnation notes. Carnation perfumes have been used in brilliantines, hair oils, talcum powders and soaps. Apart from soap perfumes, they contained small amounts of carnation absolute. Carnation fragrances are still used to perfume colored soaps. In modern cosmetic perfumes, carnation is mostly used as a modifying component of a fragrance to give a warm spicy floral note. Carnation absolute is used today only in de luxe fragrances, because of its high price.* Synthetic carnation compounds or their components have replaced the absolute in less expensive perfumes. Efforts are being made to introduce a lower priced carnation ingredient, cultivated and produced in Kenya, to encourage its use in perfumery. The carnation odor is important in both women's and men's fragrances, and it will remain an indispensable component of fragrances created in the future.
The volatile oils of Euodia hortensis forma hortensis
Authors: Brophy Joseph J. , Rahmani Mawardi , Toia Robert F. , Croft Kevin D. , Lassak Erich V.
Published: November 2006

The volatile leaf oil of Euodia hortensis forma hortensis contains menthofuran (64%) and evodone (27%) as its major components. Another forty‐two components have been detected in the oil of which twenty‐nine have been identified. The volatile oil from the flowers contains evodone as its main component with lesser amounts of menthofuran, α‐copaene, ar‐curcumene and caryophyllene.
Characterization of p‐menthanols and p‐menthanyl acetates
Authors: McMahon David H. , Michalis D. Glenn
Published: November 2006

Menthanyl acetate is a commercial product used in the formulation of fragrances. This material and its precursor, p‐menthanol, were each found to be mainly mixtures of four isomers. The use of preparative GC and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy proved invaluable in distinguishing the isomers of the p‐menthanols and p‐menthanyl acetates. This work identifies each isomer and corrects spectroscopic assignments previously reported in the literature. 1H‐NMR distinguished isomers with axial and equatorial methyl and hydroxyl groups on a cyclohexane ring.
An approach to the isolation of the fragrant principle of the liverwort Lophocolea heterophylla
Authors: Herout Vlastimil
Published: November 2006

The presence of a very fragrant component, C12H20O, in the liverwort Lophocolea heterophylla was proven. A possible method for the isolation of this still unknown substance is discussed. The special ‚mossy’︁ note of this natural product should be interesting as a possible component of fragrancies.
The effect of cyanine dyes on growth and essential oil production in sweet marjoram, Origanum majorana L
Authors: Ei‐Keltawi N. E. , Khalil Z. H.
Published: November 2006

The effect of 2‐ and 4‐styryl cyanine dyes on growth and essential oil production in sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana L.) was studied. Both 4‐styryl cyanine and its 2‐analogues were applied as foliar sprays at concentrations of 0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 ppm. Four sprays were applied at biweekly intervals.

Foliar application of both styryl cyanines at concentrations of 25 and 50 ppm enhanced shoot and root systems as well as the yield of essential oil compared with the control treatment. Increasing the concentrations used more than 50 pp, of both styryls increased the number of main stems and reduced their fresh weight and plant height. However, the length of both internode and stems as well as the air dried weight of the marjoram stem were unaffected. The effective concentration of the two styryls on the air dried matter yield and oil percentage differed.
On the genuineness of citrus essential oils. Part XII. Characteristics of sicilian lemon essential oil produced with the fmc extractor
Authors: Cotroneo Antonella , Dugo Giovanni , Licandro Gianvincenzo , Ragonese Calogero , Di Giacomo Giovanni
Published: November 2006

Results of a study made upon 85 samples of genuine Sicilian lemon essential oils obtained by industrial processing with the ‚FMC’︁ extractor during the 1983/84 citrus production season are reported.

Gas chromatography of all samples was carried out using capillary columns; ‚citral’︁ and the CD‐values were also determined from the gas chromatographic analysis of the oils, and from the fractions obtained by separation on neutral _ and columns, it has been possible to identify 34 components, which correspond to about 99.3% of the volatile fraction of the essential oil, and to establish the class to which numerous other components belong.

Results obtained are compared with those which resulted from an analogous study carried out during the period of citrus production using essential oils obtained with the ‚pelatrice’︁ and ‚sfumatrice’︁ systems. The fundamenental quantitative differences between the ‚FMC’︁ oil and those produced with the other two processes are illustrated.
Characterization of the odour principles of some basidiomycetes: Bjerkandera adusta, poria aurea, tyromyces sambuceus
Authors: Berger R. G. , Neuhäuser K. , Drawert F.
Published: November 2006

Volatile concentrates from Bjerkandera adusta, Poria aurea, and Tyromyces sambuceus were prepared by liquid‐liquid extraction, and analysed by capillary gas chromatography, sniffing capillary gas chromatography, and coupled capillary gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. A total of 26 compounds was identified in culture filtrates of Bjerkandera, 16 compounds in Poria, and 22 in Tyromyces. The spectrum of volatiles comprised aliphatic and terpenoid alcohols, 4‐and 5‐olides, and alicyclic and aromatic structures. Each species showed characteristic chromatographic patterns and odour profiles.
On the genuineness of citrus essential oils. Part XV. Detection of added orange oil terpenes in lemon essential oils
Authors: Verzera Antonella , Cotroneo Antonella , Dugo Giovanni , Salvo Franco
Published: November 2006

Sicilian lemon essential oil is a very high quality product which is offered to the international market at prices that are higher than those of the lemon essential oils produced in other citrus‐growing countries.

Market competition sometimes leads producers to ‘blend’ genuine essential oil with less expensive products, which are generally ‘citral’ and orange terpenes.

These terpenes, which are usually obtained from orange essential oil produced abroad, possess characteristics which modify the composition of lemon essential oil, even if added in only moderate quantities.

In particular, the percentage of Δ3‐carene and the ratios of Δ3‐carene/α‐terpinene and Δ3‐carene/camphene can provide a good indication of the possible addition of orange essential oil or ‐of by‐products obtained therefrom to genuine lemon essential oil.

After a study made on a great number of genuine lemon essential oils, on several samples of sweet orange terpenes, and on a large number of lemon oil and orange terpene blends we propose a gas chromatographic method which allows the detection of the addition of even 5% of sweet orange oil terpenes to genuine lemon essential oils.
Original flavour compounds and the essential oil composition of marjoram (Majorana hortensis moench)
Authors: Fischer N. , Nitz S. , Drawert F.
Published: November 2006

The analysis of spice plant flavour compounds usually starts with the so‐called essential oil, which is obtained by steam‐distillation. Comparative investigations of marjoram flavour extracts, separated using different isolation techniques, showed the great influence of the isolation method on the composition of the resulting flavour extract.

Experiments with triturations of leaf material under liquid nitrogen, extractions with supercritical carbon dioxide and direct injections of the oil of individual secretory cells demonstrated that cis‐sabinene hydrate and its acetate represent the original flavour compounds in the intact leaf. The great number of monoterpenes described in marjoram essential oils therefore appear to be artefacts, arising from a multitude of rearrangement, hydration and deprotonation reactions from cis‐sabinene hydrate acetate and from an activated precursor form, that possesses the sabinene hydrate skeleton.

The nature of these artefact‐forming reactions was investigated by model experiments with synthetic sabinene hydrate and its acetate. The biosynthetic capacity of the marjoram plant with regard to the monoterpenes seems to be confined to the synthesis of the sabinene hydrate skeleton.
Composition of the essential oils from caraway herb and root
Authors: Wichtmann E.‐M. , Stahl‐Biskup E.
Published: November 2006

By means of GC and GC‐MS the herb oil of caraway (Carum carvi L.) was found to consist of germacrene D (75%) with β‐caryophyllene, β‐elemene, humulene, germacrene A and B, and two cadinenes. Two chemotypes, a germacrene A containing type and a type without germacrene A were found.

Aliphatic aldehydes (68%), namely n‐octanal, n‐nonanal, trans‐2‐decenal, and a so‐far‐unknown aldehyde represent the main part of the root oil obtained from adult plants. The seedlings root oil consists mainly of germacrene B (51%), which decreases during development.
Aromatic plants of tropical central Africa. I. Volatile components of two annonaceae from cameroon: Xylopia aethiopica (dunal) A. Richard and Monodora myristica (Gaertn.) Dunal
Authors: Lamaty G. , Menut C. , Bessiere J. M. , Zoilo P. H. Amvam , Fekam
Published: November 2006

The essential oils of fruits of Monodora myristica (Gaertn.) Dunal (or ‘false’ nutmeg) and Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Richard were analysed by GLC and GC‐MS.

The monoterpenoid content of M. myristica amounts to about 98%, mainly hydrocarbons (96.8%); among them, α‐phellandrene (48.8%), α‐pinene (15.9%), limonene (8.7%), myrcene (7.9%) and α‐thujene (6.3%) are the most important. A comparison is made with Myristica fragrans (the ‘true’ nutmeg) for which M. myristica is often used as a substitute.

The composition of the oil of X. aethiopica is more diverse, with again mainly monoterpene hydrocarbons (66.6%) among which sabinene is the most abundant (23.9%), but with 25.1% of oxygenated compounds (essentially terpinen‐4‐ol and α‐terpineol) and 8.3% of sesquiterpenene hydrocarbons (with 4.3% of α‐muurolene).
Constituents of essential oils from Mentha × villoso‐nervata Opiz. growing wild in Greece
Authors: Kokkini S. , Papageorgiou V. P.
Published: November 2006

The essential oils of the hybrid Mentha × villoso‐nervata Opiz. growing wild in Greece were investigated by means of GC and GC‐MS. Two chemotypes have been found, which are characterized by the main components piperitone oxide/piperitenone oxide and carvone respectively.
Volatile constituents of Pteronia incana (compositae)
Authors: Bruns K. , Meiertoberens M.
Published: November 2006

By combination of capillary GLC and mass spectrometry, the essential oil of Pteronia incana (Compositae) from South Africa was analysed. It contains more than a hundred compounds, most of which were present as minor components; 56 components were identified.
The chemical composition of Thymus mongolicus Ronn. and T. quinquecostatus celak oils of chinese origin
Authors: Hong‐ju Fang , Jing‐hua Ni , Shou‐quan Lin , Yu‐xiu Feng
Published: November 2006

Essential oils obtained from the aerial parts of Thymus mongolicus and T. quinquecostatus were analysed by GC and GC‐MS. The main constituents of the oils were linalol, carvacrol, and geranyl acetate.
Effect of some essential oil components on the growth of food‐borne bacteria and synergism with some food ingredients
Authors: Kivanc Merih , Akgäul Attila
Published: November 2006

Eight essential oil components added to growth media at concentrations ranging from 50 to 400 ppm were studied with respect to their inhibitory effects against 10 common food‐borne bacteria at two inoculum levels. The growth of the bacteria in culture media containing 50 ppm carvacrol or 100 ppm cuminaldehyde with 2.0% sodium chloride, 0.05% ascorbic acid or 0.5% sucrose in various combinations was also determined. Of essential oil components tested, carvacrol, thymol and cuminaldehyde were inhibitory at some concentrations, except against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The inoculum level had little effect on the inhibition. Pair combinations were not effective on any bacteria. Carvacrol or cuminaldehyde, when used in combination with sodium chloride and ascorbic acid, exhibited an enhanced inhibitory effect on certain bacteria. Thus, some combinations completely inhibited the growth of Ps. aeruginosa. Bacillus cereus also showed some sensitivity to these combinations.
Detection of adulteration of cold‐pressed lemon oil
Authors: McHale D. , Sheridan J. B.
Published: November 2006

Adulteration of cold‐pressed oil of the lemon Citrus limon with the lower quality steam‐stripped oil still occurs on a major scale. It has been known for many years that substances with ultraviolet absorption characteristics similar to those of the coumarins and psoralens present naturally in cold‐pressed lemon oil are added to the oil mixture to mask the adulteration. The present work has confirmed that substances such as ethyl p‐dimethylaminobenzoate and 7‐geranyloxycoumarin (auraptene) are still used to conceal the adulteration of cold‐pressed lemon oil. 7‐Methoxycoumarin (herniarin) and 5,7‐dipropyloxy‐4‐methylcoumarin were also identified in certain commercial lemon oil samples. These compounds are not natural components of lemon oil and have not been associated previously with its adulteration.

A novel 5,8‐disubstituted psoralen was detected in authentic cold‐pressed lemon oil and identified as 5‐isopent‐2′‐enyloxy‐8‐(2′,3′‐epoxyisopentyloxy)psoralen(1). The concentrations of the natural coumarins and psoralens in lemon oil have been determined.
Carvacrol‐rich plants in Greece
Authors: Kokkini S. , Vokou D.
Published: November 2006

The species which grow wild and are used as oregano in Greece are Coridothymus capltatus (L.) Reichenb. fil., Satureja thymbra L., Origanum onites L. and O. vulgare L. Because of their economic importance, we studied their distribution in Greece and their essential oils. By examining various populations from all over the country, intraspecific variability was detected as to essential oil contents and to the carvacrol content of the oils, the main component responsible for their use as oregano. The species were evaluated on the basis of their oil and carvacrol contents. O. onites proved to be the most stable species, that was always rich in carvacrol, whereas O. vulgare was the most variable one. O. vulgare subsp. hirtum (Link) letswaart was very rich in essential oil; in some cases a content of about 8% was found and a carvacrol content ranging from 2.4% to 95%. O. vulgare subsp. vulgare contained only small amounts of essential oil (<0.3%) and amounts of carvacrol below 0.1 %. For these reasons the latter subspecies should not be used as oregano, although it belongs to the genus Origanum.
A re‐examination of the volatile leaf oils of Pinus ponderosa Dougl. ex. P. Lawson using ion trap mass spectroscopy
Authors: Adams Robert P. , Edmunds George F.
Published: November 2006

The composition of the volatile leaf oil of Pinus ponderosa Dougl. Ex. P. Lawson was re‐examined by fused silica capillary gas chromatography‐ion trap mass spectroscopy. The leaf oil from Washington was high in α‐and β‐pinenes (9.1% and 37.9%), car‐3‐ene (19.3%), α‐terpineol (6.2%), myrcene (4.1%) and terpinolene (3.1%). A total of 52 components were identified. This analysis is compared and contrasted with the previous analyses which reported from 8 to 17 monoterpenoids plus estragole in Ponderosa pine leaf oil. The utility of ion trap mass spectroscopy is shown to be of general use for the identification of flavours and fragrances.