bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of tributyltin (TBT) in the metabolic activity of TBT‐resistant and sensitive estuarine bacteria
Authors: Cruz Andreia , Oliveira Vanessa , Baptista Inês , Almeida Adelaide , Cunha Ângela , Suzuki Satoru , Mendo Sónia
Published: May 2010

The effect of tributyltin (TBT) on growth and metabolic activity of three estuarine bacteria with different TBT resistance profiles was investigated in an organic‐rich culture medium (TSB) and in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) buffer. Exposure to TBT was assessed by determining its effect on growth (OD600 nm measurement), bacterial productivity (leucine incorporation), viability (CFU counts), aggregation and cell size (from Live/Dead analysis), ATP and NADH concentrations. TBT exposure resulted in decrease of bacterial density, cell size, and metabolic activity. In addition, cell aggregates were observed in the TBT‐treated cultures. TBT strongly affected bacterial cell metabolism and seemed to exert an effect on its equilibrium, interfering with cell activity. Also, TBT toxicity was lower when cells were grown in TSB than in PBS, suggesting that a nutrient‐rich growth medium can protect cells from TBT toxicity. This study contributes to our understanding of the TBT‐resistant cell behavior reflected in its physiology and metabolic activity. This information is of utmost importance for further studies of TBT bioremediation. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Bioassays and biochemical biomarkers for assessing olive mill and citrus processing wastewater toxicity
Authors: Karaouzas Ioannis , Cotou Efthimia , Albanis Triantafyllos A. , Kamarianos Athanasios , Skoulikidis Nikolaos T. , Giannakou Urania
Published: May 2010

The toxicity and the biochemical effects of olive mill wastewater and citrus processing wastewater were evaluated using acute toxicity bioassays (Gammarus pulex and Hydropsyche peristerica) and biochemical biomarkers (acetylcholinesterase [AChE] and glutathione S‐transferase [GST]). The bioassays indicated toxic properties of olive mill and citrus processing wastewaters. The 24 h LC50 values of olive mill wastewater ranged from 2.64% to 3.36% for G. pulex and 3.62% to 3.88% for H. peristerica, while the LC50 of citrus processing wastewater was 25.26% for G. pulex and 17.16% for H. peristerica. Based on a five‐class hazard classification system applied for wastewaters discharged into the aquatic environment, olive mill wastewater and citrus processing wastewater were classified as highly toxic and toxic, respectively. Results of the biochemical biomarkers showed that both agroindustrial effluents at increasing sublethal wastewater concentrations could cause inhibition of the AChE and induction of the GST activities. These first results showed that both species as well as their AChE and GST activities have the potential to be used as indicators and biomarkers for assessing olive mill and citrus processing wastewaters quality. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2011.
Genotoxic effects in fish induced by pharmacological agents present in the sewage of some Italian water‐treatment plants
Authors: Rocco Lucia , Frenzilli Giada , Zito Giovanna , Archimandritis Aristea , Peluso Carmela , Stingo Vincenzo
Published: May 2010

The presence of pharmaceutical substances in the municipal effluents is currently considered the principal source of bio‐active molecule emissions into aquatic environments. This study analyzes the genotoxic damage caused by gemfibrozil and atorvastatin, two regulators of the hematic level of lipids, and sildenafil citrate, a vasodilator, on the teleost Danio rerio. The genotoxicity of these three compounds was evaluated using the comet assay, diffusion assay, and RAPD‐PCR. The alkaline version (pH 12.1) of the comet assay was used for the erythrocytes of the zebrafish to evaluate the presence of single strand DNA breaks. Furthermore, the diffusion assay was used to estimate the number of apoptotic cells. The fish were treated with the three pharmacological agents at the average concentrations previously found at some Italian treatment plants and were then sacrificed from 5 to 35 days after exposure. The data of the comet assay showed a statistically significant loss of DNA integrity after 5 days of exposure to atorvastatin and after one week of exposure to gemfibrozil. This damage was, however, repaired after 14 days. Sildenafil citrate produced, instead, a statistically significant loss of DNA integrity at the concentrations found only after 35 days of exposure. The genotoxicity at the molecular level was tested by RAPD‐PCR. The results from this investigation are in agreement with those from two other tests, confirming the efficacy of the use of the three experimental approaches for the complete evaluation of genotoxic damage. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Novel Binuclear Cobalt(II) Complex with Discrete Water Clusters (H2O)8
Authors: Gao En‐Jun , Su Meng , Zhang Min , Huang Yun , Wang Lei , Zhu Ming‐Chang , Liu Lei , Zhang Yi‐Xing , Guo Mei‐Jun , Guan Feng , Dai Lei
Published: May 2010

A new octameric water cluster was observed in the complex Co2(dptc)(bipy)2(H2O)6·4H2O (1) (H4dptc = diphenyl‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxylic acid; bipy = 2,2′‐bipyridine), which was characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis and IR spectroscopy. The centrosymmetric octamer consists of a water hexamer in the chair form and two water molecules and brings to light a novel mode of the cooperative association of water molecules. Those complex units are connected into a 2D infinite layer framework through hydrogen bonding. Consequently, the 2D layers are further aggregated by hydrogen bonding with octameric subunits and π···π stacking interactions to form a 3D supramolecular architecture.
Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties of Three Novel Sandwich‐type Tungstobismuthates with Triethanolamine
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zhang Yi , Hao Zhaomin , Luo Fang
Published: May 2010

Three novel sandwich‐type polyoxotungstates (1–3) were synthesized in good yield using an in‐situ conventional solution synthesis method by reaction in aqueous media below 80 °C. Compounds 1–3 represent the first structurally characterized β‐B‐BiW9 sandwich‐type polyoxometalates with triethanolamine cations. All three compounds have the same building unit [(X(H2O)3)2(X0.5W0.5O)2(β‐B‐BiW9O33)2)]10– [X = MnII (1), CoII (2), NiII (3)]. The adjacent units of 1 or 2 are joined by Na+ cations in different ways to construct 1D chains or 2D sheets. A 3D supramolecular structure is further formed by hydrogen bond interactions among water molecules and protonated triethanolamine cations. Meanwhile only compound 3 shows a 0D structure. The compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, TG analysis, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Magnetic measurements on a sample of 1 show the presence of paramagnetic interactions.
Synthetic and Structural Studies on Methyl‐, tert‐Butyl‐ and Phenylmercury(II) Azide
Authors: Klapötke Thomas M. , Krumm Burkhard , Moll Richard
Published: May 2010

The reaction of organomercury(II) halogenides (RHgHal, Hal = Cl, I) with silver azide furnished the corresponding covalent organomercury(II) azides RHgN3 (R = Me (1), tBu (2), Ph (3)). In addition to the characterization by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, IR and Raman spectroscopy as well as mass spectrometry, the mercury content was determined. A dependance on the solventpolarity for the 14N NMR resonances was observed. Furthermore, X‐ray diffraction studies were performed and the crystal structures for mercury(II) azides 1–3 are reported. A comparison of the bond lengths and angles with data from theoretical calculations is given.
From the Lithium‐2‐anilide‐2‐fluoro‐1,3‐diaza‐2‐sila‐cyclopentene‐GaCl3 Adduct to 1,4,6‐Triaza‐5‐gallium‐7‐sila‐cyclo‐3‐heptene ‐ Experimental and Quantum‐chemical Results
Authors: Fischer Andreas , Stern Daniel , Thorn Andrea , Abraham Sascha , Stalke Dietmar , Klingebiel Uwe
Published: May 2010

The lithium salt (HC–NCMe3)2SiFNLiR (1) R = C6H3(2,6‐CHMe2)2 reacts with trichlorogallium under displacement of the lithium ion by GaCl3 to give the adduct [(HC–NCMe3)2SiFN]– [(GaCl3)R·Li(thf)4]+ (1). Compound 1 thermally loses LiCl and forms the bicyclic ring intermediates V and VI. Compound  VI adds the aniline H2NC6H3(2,6‐CHMe2)2 and the unsaturated, seven‐membered ring compound –NCMe3–CH2–CH=NCMe3GaCl2–NR–SiFNHR– (2) is obtained. The addition is accompanied by an enamine‐imine‐tautomerism and proves the Lewis acid character of the silicon atom in an unknown 3‐center‐2‐electron interaction of one nitrogen atom with the silicon and gallium atoms. Quantum chemical calculations of the thermal isomerisation process and crystal structures of 1 and 2 are reported.
Formation and Stability of Gaseous WS2Cl2, WS2Br2 and WS2I2 – A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Milke Edgar , Köppe Ralf , Binnewies Michael
Published: May 2010

Gaseous WS2Cl2 and WS2Br2 are formed by the reaction of solid WS2 with chlorine resp. bromine at temperatures of about 1000 K. This could be shown by mass spectrometric measurements. The heats of formation and entropies of WS2Cl2 and WS2Br2 have been determined by means of mass spectrometry (MS) and quantum chemical calculations (QC). WS2I2 could not be detected by experimental methods. This is in line with the quantum chemically determined equilibrium constant of the formation reaction. The following values are given:, ΔfH0298(WS2Cl2) = –230.8 kJ·mol–1 (MS), ΔfH0298(WS2Cl2) = –235.0 kJ·mol–1 (QC),, S0298(WS2Cl2) = 370.7 J·K–1·mol–1 (QC) and, cp0T(WS2Cl2) = 103.78 + 7.07 × 10–3 T – 0.93 × 105 T–2 – 3.25 × 10–6 T2 (298.15 K < T < 1000 K) (QC). ΔfH0298(WS2Br2) = –141.9 kJ·mol–1 (MS), ΔfH0298(WS2Br2) = –131.5 kJ·mol–1 (QC),, S0298(WS2Br2) = 393.9 J·K–1·mol–1 (QC) and, cp0T(WS2Br2) = 104.84 + 5.32 × 10–3 T – 0.75 × 105 T–2 – 2.45 × 10–6 T2 (298.15 K < T < 1000 K) (QC). ΔfH0298(WS2I2) = –18.0 kJ·mol–1 (QC), S0298(WS2I2) = 409.9 J·K–1·mol–1 (QC) and, cp0T(WS2I2) = 105.17 + 4.77 × 10–3 T – 0.67 × 105 T–2 – 2.19 × 10–6 T2 (298.15 K < T < 1000 K) (QC). These molecules have the expected C2v‐symmetry.
Ternary Transition Metal Acetylides AI2M0C2 (AI = K, Rb; M0 = Pd, Pt): Neutron Diffraction Studies and Electronic Properties
Authors: Billetter Heinrich , Wallraff Tim , Schwarz Ulrich , Smith Ronald I. , Ruschewitz Uwe
Published: May 2010

The crystal structures of K2PdC2, K2PtC2, and Rb2PdC2 (P$\bar3$m1, Z = 1) were refined from time‐of‐flight powder neutron diffraction data (Polaris, ISIS/RAL) at room temperature and 4.5 K. The resulting C–C distances within the C22– anion are in the range 124.4–124.7 pm (295 K). This is distinctly longer than the expected distance for a C–C triple bond (120 pm). At low temperatures slightly longer C–C distances are found (125.0–126.7 pm), which is due to an increasing wobbling of the C2 dumbbells around their center of gravity with increasing temperature. This is also reflected in the temperature dependence of the lattice parameters a and c. Lattice parameter c, which is parallel to the C2 dumbbells, decreases with increasing temperature, whereas a shows a typical positive thermal expansion. Differing to previous work ternary palladium acetylides A2PdC2 were obtained as red (A = Na) and yellow powders (A = K, Rb) by using a slightly improved synthesis. By means of diffuse reflectivity direct bandgaps were determined to 2.09 eV (A = Na), 2.55 eV (A = K), and 2.77 eV (A = Rb). This is in good agreement with direct bandgaps obtained from band structure calculations. These band structure calculations indicate very small indirect bandgaps of only a few tenth of an eV.
Three New Supramolecular Complexes Based on 2‐Propyl‐1H‐imidazole‐4,5‐dicarboxylate: Synthesis, Structures and Properties
Authors: Li Xiao‐Xu , Yue Shan‐Tang , Wang Ning , Li Zhao‐Yang , Liu Ying‐Liang
Published: May 2010

Three new complexes, namely, [Ni(L)2·2H2O]·3H2O (1), [Co(L)2·2H2O](2)and [Co(L′)2·2H2O] (3) (L= 2‐propyl‐1H‐imidazole‐4,5‐dicarboxylate andL′= 2‐methyl‐1H‐imidazole‐4,5‐dicarboxylate), were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions. X‐ray diffraction analysis revealed that these complexes have zero‐dimensional (0D) structures, which are extended into different multi‐dimensional structures through hydrogen‐bonding interactions. Their crystal structures were further characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analyses. In compound3, the propyl group ofLwas transformed into a methyl group (L′) byin‐situreactions. Temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility investigations revealed antiferromagnetic interactions for compound1.
A study of the parrot trade in Peru and the potential importance of internal trade for threatened species
Authors: GASTAÑAGA MELVIN , MACLEOD ROSS , HENNESSEY BENNETT , NÚÑEZ JOAQUIN UGARTE , PUSE EDEVALY , ARRASCUE ANITA , HOYOS JOHANA , CHAMBI WILLY MALDONADO , VASQUEZ JIMMY , ENGBLOM GUNAR
Published: May 2010

During a period of 12 months in 2007 and 2008, a study of the parrot trade within Peru was carried out. In this study, 20 main wildlife markets were visited in eight cities in order to estimate the number of parrot species and individuals traded legally and illegally within a year. The study also gathered extra information from vendors and customers through informal interviews about the trade process. Additionally we contracted one person in two markets between February and May 2008 to monitor how many species and individuals entered the trade. During the study, four threatened species (the ‘Endangered’ Gray-cheeked Parakeet Brotogeris pyrrhoptera, the ‘Vulnerable’ Military Macaw Ara militaris, the ‘Vulnerable’ Yellow-faced Parrotlet Forpus xanthops and the ‘Near Threatened’ Red-masked Parakeet Aratinga erythrogenys) and one additional species listed in CITES Appendix 1 (Scarlet Macaw Ara macao) were found being traded. Thirty-four species were recorded in total, 33 of which are native to Peru (representing 63% of the 52 known Peruvian parrot species) and one of which (Monk Parakeet Myiopsitta monachus) is native to Bolivia and Argentina. Our results show that even for the seven species which can be legally traded in Peru, the number of individuals being traded can greatly exceed the numbers that can officially be traded legally. We directly counted 4,722 parrots for sale and using a measured detection rate of 3% we estimate a total market size in the cities surveyed of between 80,000 and 90,000 individuals. As our surveys sampled only 8 out of Peru’s 24 departmental capitals and there are also other large cities, these numbers are likely to represent only a part of the total trade in Peru. To the best of our knowledge this is one of the first detailed studies of the internal trade in a source country for the international parrot trade. Our results suggest that such internal trade is likely to be a significant conservation issue that has previously been largely overlooked.
Current Changes in German Abortion Law
Authors: REITZ DANIELA , RICHTER GERD
Published: May 2010

The current practice of late termination of pregnancy in Germany has been criticized by the German Medical Association as well as several sociopolitical groups. The controversy has especially concerned the time limit for the termination of pregnancies and the counseling process prior to that intervention. The criticism, in part, originates from the reform of the German Abortion Law in 1995, and demands for change led to legislative initiatives in 2008.
Seasonal ice cycle at the Mars Phoenix landing site: 2. Postlanding CRISM and ground observations
Authors: Cull Selby , Arvidson R. E. , Morris R. V. , Wolff M. , Mellon M. T. , Lemmon M. T.
Published: May 2010

The combination of ground observations from the Mars Phoenix Lander and orbital data from the Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM) provided a detailed view of the formation of late summer surface water ice at the landing site and surrounding regions. CRISM observations of the landing site during and immediately after Phoenix operations were analyzed to track the seasonal and diurnal ice cycles during the late spring to late summer, and a nonlinear mixing model was used to estimate grain sizes and relative abundances of water ice and dust. The surface around the Phoenix landing site was ice‐free from late spring through midsummer, although transient patches of mobile ices were observed in an 85 m diameter crater to the northeast of the landing site. At the ∼10 km diameter Heimdal Crater, located ∼10 km east of the landing site, permanent patches of water ice were observed to brighten during the late spring and darken during the summer, possibly as fine‐grained water ice that was cold trapped onto the ice during late spring sintered into larger grains or finally sublimated, exposing larger‐grained ice. CRISM spectra first show evidence of widespread ice during the night at solar longitude (Ls) ∼ 109°, ∼9 sols before Phoenix's Surface Stereo Imager detected it. CRISM spectra first show evidence of afternoon surface ice and water ice clouds after Ls ∼ 155°, after Phoenix operations ended.
Alkali/coinage metals – organolithium, organocuprate chemistry
Authors: Engels Volker , Wheatley Andrew E. H.
Published: May 2010

In Part 1 of this chapter, the alkali metal coordination compounds are reviewed, starting with mixed-metal ZnLi species, the interest in which has grown out of their synthetic importance as bases, and metallocene systems, including cyclopentadienyl derivatives. Cases of extreme interest notwithstanding, discussion is limited to compounds that contain at least one carbon-alkali metal interaction. Part 2 provides an overview of the latest developments in coinage metal organometallic chemistry. Aiming to reflect the balance between different areas of the most recent research, a review of copper-based metal-organic frameworks and coordination polymers is followed by compounds of more general interest. Similarly, for silver and gold, polymeric structures and coordination frameworks are described, along with carbene complexes and, for gold, phosphine complexes. As for Part 1, the emphasis is placed on systems that contain at least one carbon-metal interaction. The analytical discussion focuses on solid-state investigations and, where appropriate, applications are mentioned along with structural results.
Small-scale piezoelectric devices: Pyroelectric contributions to the piezoelectric response
Authors: Wooldridge Jenny , Blackburn John F. , McCartney Neil L. , Stewart Mark , Weaver Paul , Cain Markys G.
Published: May 2010

The recent trend in miniaturization of piezoelectrically active devices is driving research on size effects of these functional materials under reduced length scales. In this paper, we measure and model the generation of charge in thin piezoelectric structures under sinusoidal hydrostatic pressure and show how the subsequent thermally induced pyroelectric effect dominates the response in the smallest samples. We calculate the temperature profiles through the lead zirconate titanate structures, and determine the pyroelectric coefficient in these materials to be p′=0.28±0.02 mC m−2 K−1. The analysis of the piezoelectric and pyroelectric charge response described in this paper has significant impact on the design and fundamental functional behavior of small-scale piezoelectric devices.
High-Reynolds shallow flow over an inclined sinusoidal bottom
Authors: Plumerault L.-R. , Astruc D. , Thual O.
Published: May 2010

An experimental study of a turbulent free-surface shallow flow over an inclined sinusoidal bottom with a fixed corrugation amplitude is presented. A parametric analysis is performed by varying both the inclination angle and the Reynolds number. We show that a “pulse-waves” regime, dominant for Reynolds smaller than 4000, coexists with a “roll-waves” regime, which becomes dominant above this value. The relative energy of the waves is quantified in the parameter space. At Reynolds numbers larger than 8000, these wave instabilities disappear.
Low-energy electron collisions with pyrrole
Authors: de Oliveira Eliane M. , Lima Marco A. P. , Bettega Márcio H. F. , Sanchez Sergio d’A. , da Costa Romarly F. , Varella Márcio T. do N.
Published: May 2010

We report cross sections for low-energy elastic electron scattering by pyrrole, obtained with the Schwinger multichannel method implemented with pseudopotentials. Our calculations indicate π∗ shape resonances in the B1 and A2 symmetries, and two σ∗ resonances in the A1 symmetry (the system belongs to the C2v point group). The present assignments of π∗ resonances are very close to those previously reported for the isoelectronic furan molecule, in agreement with electron transmission spectra. The lowest-lying σ∗ anion is localized on the N–H bond and provides a dissociation coordinate similar to those found in the hydroxyl groups of organic acids and alcohols. This σNH∗ resonance overlaps the higher-lying π∗ resonance (possibly both π∗ states) and could give rise to direct and indirect dissociation pathways, which arise from electron attachment to σ∗ and π∗ orbitals, respectively. The photochemistry of pyrrole and 9-H adenine is similar, in particular with respect to the photostability mechanism that allows for the dissipation of the photon energy, and we believe pyrrole would also be a suitable prototype for studies of dissociative electron attachment (DEA) to DNA bases. We point out the connection between the mechanisms of photostability and DEA since both arise from the occupation of σ∗ and π∗ orbitals in neutral excited states and in anion states, respectively.
Spin cluster glass and magnetoelectricity in Mn-doped KTaO3
Authors: Shvartsman V. V. , Bedanta S. , Borisov P. , Kleemann W. , Tkach A. , Vilarinho P. M.
Published: May 2010

In ceramics of KTaO3 doped with 3 at. % of Mn the dielectric response is dominated by the polydispersive behavior of Mn2+ centered polar regions, whereas the magnetic and magnetoelectric (ME) behaviors reflect an intimate coupling between A-site substituted Mn2+ ions and minute amounts of Mn3O4 precipitates mediated by the polar host material. This becomes apparent by the common onset at Tc≈42 K of the ordering of ferrimagnetic Mn3O4 and of a spin cluster glass, which is characterized by memory and rejuvenation effects. The composite magnetic system exposed to external magnetic and electric dc fields shows large third order ME susceptibility with a sharp anomaly at Tc and 1/T2 dependence as T→0.
Discrete-time quantum Bernoulli noises
Authors: Wang Caishi , Chai Huifang , Lu Yanchun
Published: May 2010

In this paper we show that annihilation and creation operators on the space of Bernoulli functionals in discrete time can be naturally interpreted as discrete-time quantum Bernoulli noises (QBNs). We first examine their algebraic properties and prove among other things that the family of annihilation-creation sum operators generates a commutative group of unitary operators. Additionally, then by using QBN we prove an operator version of the discrete-time Clark formula. We also obtain a QBN-based necessary and sufficient condition for an operator process to be adapted. We define integrals of adapted operator processes with respect to QBN and show their operator martingale property. Finally, we give a representation formula for operators on the space of Bernoulli functionals.
Biocompatibility of single crystalline Fe70Pd30 ferromagnetic shape memory films
Authors: Ma Y. , Zink M. , Mayr S. G.
Published: May 2010

Controllable by an external magnetic field, ferromagnetic shape memory materials reveal a high potential for actuators in biomedical applications. Simulated body fluid (SBF) and cell tests were performed to assess the biocompatibility of Fe70Pd30 ferromagnetic shape memory thin films as grown on MgO substrates. Calcium-phosphate aggregates were detected on the film surface after soaking in SBF. Biocompatibility tests with NIH 3T3 fibroblasts revealed adhesion and proliferation on the film surface but morphological modifications with a reduced cell size became evident as well as changes in cell viability for continuous and noncontinuous FePd films. The results are compared to FePd on SiO2.
Polarization reversal behavior in the Pt/Pb(Zr,Ti)O3/Pt and Pt/Al2O3/Pb(Zr,Ti)O3/Pt capacitors for different reversal directions
Authors: Lee Hyun Ju , Kim Gun Hwan , Park Min Hyuk , Jiang An-Quan , Hwang Cheol Seong
Published: May 2010

The polarization reversal behavior of Pt/Pb(Zr,Ti)O3/Pt and Pt/Al2O3/Pb(Zr,Ti)O3/Pt capacitors was examined according to the reversal direction using transient switching current measurements. The changes in switching resistance according to the polarization reversal direction suggests that during reversal from the upward to downward polarization, nucleation of a reversed domain occurs at the top interface, whereas nucleation occurs at the bottom interface in the opposite case. The extremely high activation energy for the nucleation of a reversed domain can be reduced considerably by electron injection from the by-electrode but not by hole injection.
Leveling the Playing Field? Urban Disparities in Funding for Local Parks and Recreation in the Los Angeles Region
Authors: Joassart-Marcelli Pascale
Published: May 2010

Access to parks and recreational facilities, as well as their quality, congestion, and affordability, relates to physical activity levels and, in turn, various health outcomes. Yet park and recreational resources are often insufficient and unevenly distributed within metropolitan regions. This paper documents and analyzes the allocation of federal, state, special district, municipal, and nonprofit resources to parks and recreation facilities across municipalities within the Los Angeles region. Results indicate that local funding for parks and recreation resources is highly uneven (from less than $1 to over $500 per capita annually). Because most park and recreation spending originates at the local level, fiscally healthier cities allocate more resources to these uses. State and nonprofits funds tend to favor middle-income communities and fail to equalize spending. Inner-ring suburbs with large minority populations, and low-income exurban communities are most likely to suffer from low expenditure. Federal devolution, increased localization of service provision, and limited intergovernmental transfers have resulted in large intrametropolitan disparities in the distribution of resources for parks and recreation, ultimately shaping the landscape of health risks for local populations.
Rural Gentrification as Permanent Tourism: The Creation of the ‘New’ West Archipelago as Postindustrial Cultural Space
Authors: Hines J Dwight
Published: May 2010

In this paper I describe rural gentrification—ie the in-migration of relatively young, ex-urban members of the postindustrial middle class (PIMC)—in the northern Rocky Mountains as a form of ‘permanent tourism’. The colonization of previously industrial landscapes—ie those created according to a regime that prioritizes the production/consumption of commodities—by the PIMC has led to the expansion of postindustrial class – cultural space and the creation of the ‘New’ American West. This shift in what constitutes the ‘highest and best’ use of these lands resonates with the character of late-Modern tourism in that this emerging regime emphasizes the production/consumption of ‘experiences' to a greater degree than does the extant regime. Thus, rural gentrifiers are enacting cultural projects that are akin to those of tourists but doing so with the intention of permanently writing them into the social and physical landscape. Drawing on ethnographic examples from my fieldwork in south – central Montana, I demonstrate how members of the PIMC mobilize their increasing local strength through citizens' environmental groups and political institutions and thereby forward their ideals of proper land-use policy and practice.
Demand for CAM Practice at Hospitals in Japan: A Population Survey in Mie Prefecture
Authors: Togo Toshihiro , Urata Shigeru , Sawazaki Kenta , Sakuraba Hinata , Ishida Torao , Yokoyama Kazuhito
Published: May 2010

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies have been provided at hospitals along with conventional medicine in industrialized nations. Previous studies conducted in Japan revealed high proportion of Japanese had experience of using CAM, but failed to discuss how it should be provided. The present study aims to clarify the demand for CAM practice at hospitals in Japan. A questionnaire consisting of 41 questions was mailed to 10 000 adults randomly selected from the electoral roll of Mie prefecture, Japan in January 2007. The questionnaire asked the subjects about demand for CAM practice at hospitals, types of CAM therapy to be provided and associated reasons. Sociodemographic characteristics, perceived health status, experience and purpose of CAM use, and information resource for CAM were also surveyed. Completed answers were collected from 2824 (28.6%) respondents. Two thousand and nineteen (71.5%) of the respondents demanded CAM practice at hospitals with the most likely reason of “patients can receive treatment under the guidance of a physicians". The three most popular CAM therapies were Kampo, acupressure/massage/Shiatsu and acupuncture/moxibustion. The demand was positively associated with gender, ages of 40–59 years, annual household incomes of 5–7 million yen, occupation of specialist and technical workers and sales workers and poor health status. Higher demand was observed among those who used both CAM and conventional medical therapies for curative purposes. In conclusion, Japanese show a high demand for CAM practice, hoping to use CAM for curative purposes with monitoring by physicians at hospitals.
Assessment of Antioxidant Properties in Fruits of Myrica esculenta: A Popular Wild Edible Species in Indian Himalayan Region
Authors: Rawat Sandeep , Jugran Arun , Giri Lalit , Bhatt Indra D. , Rawal Ranbeer S.
Published: May 2010

Crude extract of Myrica esculenta fruits, a wild edible species of Indian Himalayan Region, was evaluated for phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties. Results revealed significant variation in total phenolic and flavonoid contents across populations. Among populations, total phenolic content varied between 1.78 and 2.51 mg gallic acid equivalent/g fresh weight (fw) of fruits and total flavonoids ranged between 1.31 and 1.59 mg quercetin equivalent/g fw. Antioxidant activity determined by 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) radical scavenging, 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) exhibited considerable antioxidant potential and showed significant positive correlation with total phenolic and total flavonoids content. High performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed significant variation (P <  .01) in phenolic compounds (i.e., gallic acid, catechin, hydroxybenzioc acid and ρ‐coumaric acid) across populations. This study provides evidences to establish that consumption of M. esculenta fruits while providing relished taste would also help in reduction of free radicals. Therefore, this wild edible species deserves promotion in the region through horticulture and forestry interventions.
Early inflammatory response during the development of right ventricular heart failure in a rat model
Authors: Campian Maria E. , Hardziyenka Maxim , de Bruin Kora , van Eck‐Smit Berthe L.F. , de Bakker Jacques M.T. , Verberne Hein J. , Tan Hanno L.
Published: May 2010

Aims

Inflammatory activation plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of left ventricular (LV) heart failure. In right ventricular (RV) heart failure, little is known about the role of inflammatory activation. We aimed to study the role of inflammatory activation in RV heart failure by serial monitoring during disease progression.

Methods and results

Right ventricular heart failure was induced in male Wistar rats by intraperitoneal injection of monocrotaline (MCT). Two groups were studied: MCT‐treated rats (MCT‐rats), and age‐matched controls (CON‐rats). Serial echocardiography and in vivo 67‐Gallium (67Ga) scintigraphy were performed. Local inflammation in the RV was assessed by (i) ex vivo semi‐quantitative 67Ga autoradiography, (ii) immunohistochemistry of myeloperoxidase (MPO), a marker of neutrophil activity, and (iii) mRNA assays of tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α). In MCT‐rats, 67Ga scintigraphy showed increased myocardial uptake which started during the early stages of RV disease. 67Ga autoradiography revealed that this increased 67Ga uptake occurred in the RV and inter‐ventricular septum, but not in the LV. The stage‐dependent increases of in vivo 67Ga RV myocardial uptake were paralleled by increases in mRNA gene expression for TNF‐α in RV, and increased MPO staining in RV.

Conclusion

Development and progression of RV heart failure is associated with an early increase in RV inflammation. 67Ga scintigraphy may be used for the serial assessment of inflammation and monitoring of disease progression in RV heart failure.
Mechanical circulatory support in patients of advanced age
Authors: Drews Thorsten , Stepanenko Alexander , Dandel Michael , Buz Semih , Lehmkuhl Hans Brendan , Hetzer Roland
Published: May 2010

Aims

In recent years, non‐pulsatile assist devices have been increasingly used for long‐term circulatory support. However, it remains to be established whether pulsatile and non‐pulsatile systems can ensure a similarly low rate of complications for extended periods of time in elderly patients.

Methods and results

Of 174 patients implanted between June 1991 and January 2009 [mean age: 65 ± 3.7 (60–80) years], 64 were on pulsatile (39 Berlin Heart EXCOR, 18 Novacor, 4 LionHeart, and 3 HeartMate I) and 110 on non‐pulsatile assist devices (65 Berlin Heart INCOR, 18 DeBakey, 14 HeartMate II, 7 DuraHeart, and 6 Jarvik2000). In the pulsatile group, the mean support time was 157 ± 343 (1–1836) days, and in the non‐pulsatile group 281 ± 336 (1–1619) days (P < 0.05). The 1‐year survival was 15% in the pulsatile group and 36% in the non‐pulsatile group, and 2‐year survival was 12 and 26%, respectively (P < 0.05). In the pulsatile group, 11 patients (17%) were supported for >6 months, 7 patients (11%) for >1 year, and 3 patients (5%) for >2 years, and 3 patients underwent heart transplantation, 3 were weaned, and 3 still have a device. In the non‐pulsatile group, 46 patients (42%) were supported for >6 months, 34 (28%) for >1 year, and 14 (13%) for >2 years, and 17 patients are still on support, 9 underwent transplantation, and 3 were weaned.

Conclusion

Although both types of device can be used for extended periods of time, non‐pulsatile systems have a significantly higher survival rate in elderly patients. They allow elderly patients additional years of life in their familiar environment.
High cumulative incidence of cancer in patients with cardio‐renal‐anaemia syndrome
Authors: Schroten Nicolas F. , van der Putten Karien , Rutten Frans H. , Diepenbroek Adry , Mosterd Arend , Gaillard Carlo A.J.M.
Published: May 2010

Aims

The combination of chronic kidney disease (CKD), chronic heart failure (HF), and anaemia, the so‐called cardio‐renal‐anaemia syndrome (CRA) is associated with dysregulation of erythropoietin levels and inflammation. Both have been associated with the development of cancer. This study aimed to determine the cumulative incidence of cancer in patients with CRA, as compared with anaemic CKD and control patients.

Methods and results

Patients aged <80 years who attended the nephrology or cardiology outpatient clinics between March 2006 and November 2007 were eligible for inclusion in this retrospective case–control study if haemoglobin <8.1 mmol/L (13 g/dL) and serum creatinine >80 mmol/L (0.90 mg/dL). Medical records dating back to 1996 were reviewed. The relationship between cancer and CRA, chronic HF, CKD, and anaemia was analysed using logistic regression analysis. Data from 1087 patients were reviewed. We identified 348 patients with both CKD and anaemia, of whom 132(38.3%) had CRA. The control group included 264 patients attending the hypertension outpatient clinic. Patients with CRA had a 19% cumulative incidence of cancer compared with 11% for patients with anaemia, CKD and no chronic HF, and 11% in the control group. The odds ratio (OR) for cancer was 1.8(95% CI 1.0–3.2) for the CRA group compared with the control group. Chronic HF was an independent risk factor for cancer after correction for age and gender (adjusted OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.2–3.3, P = 0.007).

Conclusion

The cumulative incidence of cancer among patients with CRA is high compared with controls and to anaemic CKD patients without chronic HF. Chronic HF was an independent risk factor for cancer. These results stress the importance of clarifying the mechanisms involved in the development of cancer in CRA.
Alcohol use and mortality in older men and women
Authors: McCaul Kieran A. , Almeida Osvaldo P. , Hankey Graeme J. , Jamrozik Konrad , Byles Julie E. , Flicker Leon
Published: May 2010

Aims  To compare the effect of alcohol intake on 10‐year mortality for men and women over the age of 65 years.

Design, setting and participants  Two prospective cohorts of community‐dwelling men aged 65–79 years at baseline in 1996 (n = 11 727) and women aged 70–75 years in 1996 (n = 12 432).

Measurements  Alcohol was assessed according to frequency of use (number of days alcohol was consumed per week) and quantity consumed per day. Cox proportional hazards models were compared for men and women for all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality.

Findings  Compared with older adults who did not consume alcohol every week, the risk of all‐cause mortality was reduced in men reporting up to four standard drinks per day and in women who consumed one or two drinks per day. One or two alcohol‐free days per week reduced this risk further in men, but not in women. Similar results were observed for deaths due to cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions  In people over the age of 65 years, alcohol intake of four standard drinks per day for men and two standard drinks per day for women was associated with lower mortality risk. For men, the risk was reduced further if accompanied with 1 or 2 alcohol‐free days per week.
The effects of paracetamol (acetaminophen) on hepatic tests in patients who chronically abuse alcohol – a randomized study
Authors: Dart R. C. , Green J. L. , Kuffner E. K. , Heard K. , Sproule B. , Brands B.
Published: May 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther2010;32:478–486

Background Retrospective accounts suggest that therapeutic doses of paracetamol can produce severe hepatic injury in patients with putative high‐risk conditions, including alcoholism and infectious hepatitis. Metabolism of paracetamol to its hepatotoxic metabolite is enhanced in patients who abuse alcohol, who also have compromised liver defences from depressed hepatic glutathione.

Aim To determine the effect of paracetamol on serum liver tests of newly abstinent subjects who abuse alcohol, including subjects with hepatitis C infection.

Methods A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Adult alcohol abusers with a current drinking episode longer than 7 days received either placebo or paracetamol 4 g/day for 5 days.

Results Of 142 subjects enrolled, 74 received paracetamol and 68 received placebo. Mean ALT activity during treatment increased from 48 to 62 IU/L in the paracetamol group and from 47 to 49 IU/L in the placebo group. Maximum ALT was 238 and 249 IU/L in the paracetamol and control groups respectively. The INR remained unchanged and serum bilirubin decreased in both groups. Subgroup analyses for subjects with alcoholic hepatitis, hepatitis C virus antibody and other subgroups showed no statistical difference between groups.

Conclusion Administration of paracetamol 4 g/day appears safe in newly abstinent patients who abuse alcohol.
Cost estimates of spinal versus general anaesthesia for fractured neck of femur surgery
Authors: Chakladar A. , White S. M.
Published: May 2010

It remains uncertain whether spinal anaesthesia is preferable to general anaesthesia for surgical repair of hip fracture, but one determining factor is the comparative cost. A detailed cost analysis relating to 20 consultants’ intended anaesthetic practice (which provided information of consumables used) and data from the Brighton Hip Fracture Database was performed to quantify any difference in the costs of administering spinal versus general anaesthesia for patients with hip fracture. Although spinal anaesthesia took significantly longer to administer (mean (SD) time 31 (15) min vs 27 (16) min; p < 0.0001), the mean (SD) cost of spinal anaesthesia (£193.81 (37.49)) was significantly less than the cost of general anaesthesia (£270.58 (44.68); p < 0.0001). The mean percentage cost of anaesthesia was 3.8% of hospital income per hip fracture, and personnel contributed approximately 46% of this cost. While such considerations indicate that spinal anaesthesia is financially preferable, it is unknown whether differential clinical outcomes between regional and general anaesthesia may offset this apparent monetary advantage.
β‐Arrestin 2 regulates toll‐like receptor 4‐mediated apoptotic signalling through glycogen synthase kinase‐3β
Authors: Li Hui , Sun Xiuli , LeSage Gene , Zhang Yi , Liang Zhihou , Chen Jixiang , Hanley Gregory , He Lei , Sun Shenggang , Yin Deling
Published: May 2010

Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), a key member of the TLR family, has been well characterized by its function in the induction of inflammatory products of innate immunity. However, the involvement of TLR4 in a variety of apoptotic events by an unknown mechanism has been the focus of great interest. Our investigation found that TLR4 promoted apoptotic signalling by affecting the glycogen synthase kinase‐3β (GSK‐3β) pathway in a serum‐deprivation‐induced apoptotic paradigm. Serum deprivation induces GSK‐3β activation in a pathway that leads to subsequent cell apoptosis. Intriguingly, this apoptotic cascade is amplified in presence of TLR4 but greatly attenuated by β‐arrestin 2, another critical molecule implicated in TLR4‐mediated immune responses. Our data suggest that the association of β‐arrestin 2 with GSK‐3β contributes to the stabilization of phospho‐GSK‐3β, an inactive form of GSK‐3β. It becomes a critical determinant for the attenuation of TLR4‐initiated apoptosis by β‐arrestin 2. Taken together, we demonstrate that the TLR4 possesses the capability of accelerating GSK‐3β activation thereby deteriorating serum‐deprivation‐induced apoptosis; β‐arrestin 2 represents an inhibitory effect on the TLR4‐mediated apoptotic cascade, through controlling the homeostasis of activation and inactivation of GSK‐3β.
Rapid Detection of BF Haplotypes by a Semi‐nested Polymerase Chain Reaction, which Causes Resistance/Susceptibility to Marek’s Disease in Chicken
Authors: Jin Y.‐C. , Wei P. , Wei X.‐X. , Zhao Z.‐Y. , Li Y.
Published: May 2010

A semi‐nested polymerase chain reaction (snPCR) assay was developed for the rapid detection of resistant/susceptible BF haplotypes to Marek’s disease (MD) using the cDNA samples from peripheral blood leucocytes, liver, spleen and heart from Xiayan homozygous chickens: A11, C23, D8 and D12 (resistant to MD), A5 and B21 (susceptible to MD). The snPCR was utilized to span alternative splicing‐out of the sequence encoding the second segment of the cytoplasmic part of the mature BF molecules (exon 7). This alternative exon 7 splice variant was detected in BF*A5 and BF*B21 (susceptible to MD), but not in the MD‐resistant BF*A11, BF*C23, BF*D8 and BF*D12 haplotypes, suggesting a potential role of exon 7 for the detection of resistant/susceptible BF haplotypes to MD.
Intradermal Delivery of Recombinant Vaccinia Virus Vector DIs Induces Gut‐Mucosal Immunity
Authors: Yoshino N. , Kanekiyo M. , Hagiwara Y. , Okamura T. , Someya K. , Matsuo K. , Ami Y. , Sato S. , Yamamoto N. , Honda M.
Published: May 2010

Antigen‐specific mucosal immunity is generally induced by the stimulation of inductive mucosal sites. In this study, we found that the replication‐deficient vaccinia virus vector, DIs, generates antigen‐specific mucosal immunity and systemic responses. Following intradermal injection of recombinant DIs expressing simian immunodeficiency virus gag (rDIsSIVgag), we observed increased levels of SIV p27‐specific IgA and IgG antibodies in faecal extracts and plasma samples, and antibody‐forming cells in the intestinal mucosa and spleen of C57BL/6 mice. Antibodies against p27 were not detected in nasal washes, saliva, and vaginal washes. The enhanced mucosal and systemic immunity persisted for 1 year of observation. Induction of Gag‐specific IFN‐γ spot‐forming CD8+ T cells in the spleen, small intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes, and submandibular lymph nodes was observed in the intradermally injected mice. Heat‐inactivated rDIsSIVgag rarely induced antigen‐specific humoral and T‐helper immunity. Moreover, rDIsSIVgag was detected in MHC class II IA antigen‐positive (IA+) cells at the injection site. Consequently, intradermal delivery of rDIs effectively induces antigen‐specific humoral and cellular immunity in gut‐mucosal tissues of mice. Our data suggest that intradermal injection of an rDIs vaccine may be useful against mucosally transmitted pathogens.
Antibody‐Mediated T‐Cell Reduction or Increased Levels of Chimerism Overcome Resistance to Cyclophosphamide‐Induced Tolerance in NKT‐Deficient Mice
Authors: Onzuka T. , Tomita Y. , Okano S. , Shimizu I. , Yamada H. , Yoshikai Y. , Tominaga R.
Published: May 2010

We reported that invariant NKT‐cell knockout (iNKT KO) mice are resistant to the induction of intrathymic chimerism and clonal deletion in the cyclophosphamide (CP)‐induced tolerance system (CPS). However, another report shows that clonal deletion with chimerism may be intact in iNKT KO recipients in a bone marrow transplantation model. We also reported that pretreatment with anti‐Thy1.2 mAb, which reduces the number of T cells and iNKT cells, promotes allograft tolerance across H‐2 barriers in the CPS. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of T‐cell depletion in the CPS, and the relationship between the role played by iNKT cells in central tolerance and mixed chimerism. BALB/c (H‐2d) wild‐type, or iNKT KO (Jα18−/−) mice were pretreated with 20–100 μg of anti‐Thy1.2 mAb and given 108 donor DBA/2 (H‐2d) spleen cells on Day 0, and 200 mg/kg CP on Day 2. Pretreatment with T‐cell depletion resulted in higher levels of mixed chimerism, increased intrathymic clonal deletion of donor‐reactive cells, and the induction of skin graft tolerance in iNKT KO recipients in CPS. This suggests that the high levels of mixed chimerism overcame the resistance to CP‐induced tolerance in iNKT KO mice. Consistently, the enhancement of mixed chimerism by injection of tolerant donor spleen cells (SC) rendered iNKT KO recipients susceptible to CP‐induced tolerance. These results suggest that iNKT‐cell‐mediated immunoregulation of central tolerance is evident at low levels of peripheral mixed chimerism in the CPS.