bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of UV‐shielding properties of novel porous hollow silica nanoparticle carriers for avermectin
Authors: Li Zhu‐Zhu , Chen Jian‐Feng , Liu Fan , Liu An‐Qi , Wang Qing , Sun Hai‐Yan , Wen Li‐Xiong
Published: December 2006

The shielding protection given by self‐prepared porous hollow silica nanoparticles (PHSN) to pesticides from degradation by UV light was investigated using avermectin as a model pesticide. It was demonstrated that PHSN carriers with a shell thickness of ∼15 nm and a pore diameter of 4–5 nm have an encapsulation capacity of 625 g kg−1 for avermectin using a supercritical fluid loading method. PHSN carriers exhibited remarkable UV‐shielding properties for avermectin. This was affected by the intensity of UV light, the pH and the temperature of the release medium. Rises in UV intensity, pH and/or temperature reduced the UV protection of PHSN for avermectin. In addition, avermectin loaded into the inner core of the PHSN carriers was released slowly into the release medium for about 30 days following a typical sustained‐release pattern. It thus appears that PHSN carriers have a promising future in applications requiring sustained pesticide release. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of substituents at the 5‐position of the pyridine ring of imidacloprid on insecticidal activity against Periplaneta americana
Authors: Kagabu Shinzo , Murase Yuko , Imai Rie , Ito Nakako , Nishimura Keiichiro
Published: December 2006

The insecticidal activities of imidacloprid derivatives with a wide range of substituents at the 5‐position on the pyridine ring against American cockroaches, Periplaneta americana (L.), were measured by injection with and without synergists propyl 2‐propynyl phenylphosphonate and piperonyl butoxide. The log(1/MLD) value (MLD = minimal lethal dose in mol) without synergists was 7.96 for the methyl derivative, and the values were lower for other derivatives. Synergists enhanced the potencies of all the compounds tested. Considering these compounds and those with other substituents at this position, the region for maximum activity was predicted to be in the conjunction of the pyridyl 6‐chlorine atom with a lipophilic small group in the 5‐position. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Theoretical study of the gas‐phase ion pairs SN2 reactions of LiX with CH3SY (X, Y = F, Cl, Br, I)
Authors: Gai Jing‐Gang , Ren Yi
Published: December 2006

The gas‐phase ion pair SN2 reactions at saturated sulfur LiX + CH3SY → CH3SX + LiY (X, Y = F, Cl, Br, I) are investigated using the CCSD(T) calculations. The calculated results show that the reactions LiX + CH3SY are exothermic only when the nucleophile is a heavier lithium halide. Central barrier heights are found to depend primarily on the identity of nucleophile LiX, decreasing in the order LiF > LiCl > LiBr > LiI. Another interesting feature of the ion pair reactions at sulfur is the good correlation between the reaction barriers with geometrical looseness of LiX and SY bonds in the transition state structures. The data for the reaction barriers show good agreement with the prediction of the Marcus equation and its modification. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Age–period–cohort models for the Lexis diagram
Authors: Carstensen B.
Published: December 2006

Analysis of rates from disease registers are often reported inadequately because of too coarse tabulation of data and because of confusion about the mechanics of the age–period–cohort model used for analysis. Rates should be considered as observations in a Lexis diagram, and tabulation a necessary reduction of data, which should be as small as possible, and age, period and cohort should be treated as continuous variables. Reporting should include the absolute level of the rates as part of the age‐effects.

This paper gives a guide to analysis of rates from a Lexis diagram by the age–period–cohort model. Three aspects are considered separately: (1) tabulation of cases and person‐years; (2) modelling of age, period and cohort effects; and (3) parametrization and reporting of the estimated effects. It is argued that most of the confusion in the literature comes from failure to make a clear distinction between these three aspects. A set of recommendations for the practitioner is given and a package for R that implements the recommendations is introduced. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The ORF YNL274c (GOR1) codes for glyoxylate reductase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rintala Eija , Pitkänen Juha‐Pekka , Vehkomäki Maija‐Leena , Penttilä Merja , Ruohonen Laura
Published: December 2006

The enzyme glyoxylate reductase reversibly reduces glyoxylate to glycolate, or alternatively hydroxypyruvate to D‐glycerate, using either NADPH or NADH as a co‐factor. The enzyme has multiple metabolic roles in different organisms. In this paper we show that GOR1 (ORF YNL274c) encodes a glyoxylate reductase and not a hydroxyisocaproate dehydrogenase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, even though it also has minor activity on α‐ketoisocaproate. In addition, we show that deletion of the glyoxylate reductase‐encoding gene leads to higher biomass concentration after diauxic shift. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cloning of an epoxide hydrolase‐encoding gene from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and functional expression in Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Labuschagne Michel , Albertyn Jacobus
Published: December 2006

Epoxide hydrolases (EHs), especially those of fungal origin, have the ability to catalyse the enantioselective hydrolysis of epoxides to their corresponding diols. Recombinant DNA technology has been used extensively to overproduce these catalysts for the efficient hydrolytic kinetic resolution of epoxides, which serve as high‐value intermediates in the fine chemicals and pharmaceutical industries. Degenerate primers, based on data from available EH‐encoding gene sequences, in conjunction with inverse PCR, were used to amplify the genomic EH‐encoding gene from Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. The 2347 bp genomic sequence revealed a 1979 bp ORF containing nine introns. The cDNA sequence revealed an 1185 bp EH‐encoding gene that translates into a 394 amino acid protein exhibiting low sequence homology towards the known EH proteins. The EH gene from R. mucilaginosa was functionally expressed in Yarrowia lipolytica using a constitutive integrative expression cassette. Whole‐cell biotransformation of (2,3‐epoxypropyl)benzene, using the recombinant EH, revealed activity and selectivity far superior to any other activity and selectivity reported in literature using wild‐type organisms. The GenBank Accession No. for the R. mucilaginosa EH gene is AY627310. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Pyrrolidine Dithiocarbamate on Healing of Colonic Anastomoses in the Cecal Ligation and Puncture Model of Intraperitoneal Sepsis in Rats
Authors: Teke Zafer , Aytekin Faruk Onder , Aydin Cagatay , Kabay Burhan , Yenisey Cigdem , Sacar Suzan , Simsek Nilufer Genc , Tekin Koray
Published: December 2006

Introduction

Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) is a low‐molecular thiol antioxidant and potent inhibitor of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activation. In recent animal studies, the delaying effect of intraperitoneal sepsis on healing of colonic anastomoses has been demonstrated. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of PDTC on healing of colonic anastomoses in the presence of intraperitoneal sepsis induced by a rodent model of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP).

Methods

Anastomosis of the left colon was performed on the day following CLP in 30 rats that were divided into three groups: sham‐operated control (laparotomy and cecal mobilization, group I, n =10), cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) (group II, n = 10), PDTC‐treated group (100 mg/kg IV before construction of the colonic anastomosis) (group III, n = 10). On postoperative day 6, all animals were sacrificed, and anastomotic bursting pressures were measured in vivo. Tissue samples were obtained for further investigation of colonic anastomotic hydroxyproline (HP) contents, perianastomotic myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels.

Results

There was a statistically significant increase in the activity of MPO and MDA levels in the CLP group (group II) along with a decrease in GSH levels, colonic anastomotic HP contents, and bursting pressure values when compared to controls (group I). However, PDTC treatment led to a statistically significant increase in the tissue HP contents, GSH levels, and colonic anastomotic bursting pressure values, along with a decrease in MPO activity and MDA levels in group III (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study showed that PDTC treatment significantly prevented the delaying effect of CLP‐induced intraperitoneal sepsis on anastomotic healing in the colon. Further clinical studies are needed to clarify whether PDTC may be a useful therapeutic agent to increase the safety of the anastomosis during particular operations where sepsis‐induced injury occurs.
The Natural History and Traditional Management of Appendicitis Revisited: Spontaneous Resolution and Predominance of Prehospital Perforations Imply That a Correct Diagnosis is More Important Than an Early Diagnosis
Authors: Andersson Roland E.
Published: December 2006

Background

The principle of early exploration on wide indications in order to prevent perforation has been the guiding star for the management of patients with suspected appendicitis for over 100 years, dating back to a time when appendicitis was a significant cause of mortality. Since then there has been a dramatic decrease in mortality due to appendicitis. Emerging evidence calls for a new understanding of the natural history of untreated appendicitis. This motivates a reappraisal of the fundamental principles for the management of patients with suspected appendicitis.

Methods

Analysis of epidemiologic and clinical studies that elucidate the natural history of appendicitis, i.e. the possibility of spontaneous resolution or the risk of progression to perforation, the determinants of the proportion of perforations and mortality, and the consequence of in‐hospital delay.

Results

The results presented in a number of studies suggest that spontaneous resolution of appendicitis is common, that perforation can seldom be prevented, that the risk of perforation has been exaggerated and that in‐hospital delay is safe. An alternative understanding of the inverse relationship between the proportion of negative explorations and perforation and the increasing proportion of perforation with length of time is presented, mainly explaining these findings by selection due to spontaneous resolution.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests that spontaneous resolution of untreated, non‐perforated appendicitis is common and that perforation can rarely be prevented and is associated with a lower increase in mortality than was previously thought. This motivates a shift in focus from the prevention of perforation to the early detection and treatment of advanced appendicitis. In order to minimize mortality, morbidity and costs avoidance of negative appendectomies is more important then preventing perforation. In patients with an equivocal diagnosis where advanced appendicitis is deemed less likely a correct diagnosis is more important than a rapid diagnosis. These patients can safely be managed by active observation with an improved diagnostic work‐up under observation, which has consistently shown a low proportion of negative appendectomies without an increase in the proportion of perforations or morbidity. A high proportion of perforations can be explained by selection due to undiagnosed resolving appendicitis. The proportion of perforation is therefore a questionable measure of the quality of the management of patients with suspected appendicitis and should be used with caution.
Improving Outcomes in Hernia Repair by the Use of Light Meshes—A Comparison of Different Implant Constructions Based on a Critical Appraisal of the Literature
Authors: Weyhe Dirk , Belyaev Orlin , Müller Christophe , Meurer Kirsten , Bauer Karl‐Heinz , Papapostolou Georgios , Uhl Waldemar
Published: December 2006

Background

Despite convincing advantages offered by meshes, their use in hernia surgery remains controversial because of fears concerning the long‐term effects of their implantation. To improve biocompatibility, a large variety of newly developed light meshes has been introduced to the market.

This overview of the literature aimed to establish whether absolute material reduction (g per implanted mesh), use of absorbable components, and coating by inert materials are evidence‐based ways to improve biocompatibility of meshes.

Method

A review of the current English and German language literature on the outcome of groin und incisional hernia mesh repair was performed. Both basic research and clinical trials were used as sources of data. Meta‐analyses and randomized controlled trials were given priority and were referred to whenever possible.

Results

Operative technique was an independent prognostic factor for the clinical outcome. Mesh construction and composition as characterized by pore size and filament structure appeared to be more important determinants of foreign body reaction after implantation than absolute material reduction of 1 g or more per implant. No data exist about an oncogenic effect of alloplastic materials in humans, but disturbed fertility in animal studies remains an issue of concern and should be further investigated.

Conclusions

According to data from current randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies, light meshes seem to have some advantages with respect to postoperative pain and foreign body sensation. However, their use is associated with increased recurrence rates. Light meshes offer no advantages with respect to alleviating severe chronic groin pain. At the same time, experimental data reveal that material composition and mesh structure may significantly affect foreign body reaction.
Partially Overlapping Limited Anterior and Posterior Instrumentation for Adult Thoracolumbar and Lumbar Scoliosis: A Description of Novel Spinal Instrumentation, “The Hybrid Technique”
Authors: Boachie-Adjei Oheneba , Charles Gina , Cunningham Matthew E.
Published: December 2006

Progressive and/or painful adult spinal deformity in the thoracolumbar and lumbar spine is sometimes treated surgically by long posterior fusions from the thoracic spine down to the pelvis, especially where there is a major thoracic curve component. Recent advances in anterior spinal instrumentation and spinal surgery technique have demonstrated the improved corrective ability offered by anterior stabilization systems, and the added benefit of limiting the number of vertebral fusion levels required for control of the deformity. The “hybrid technique” is a novel use of anterior instrumentation that applies limited anterior instrumentation down to the low lumbar spine (rods and screws), and partially overlapping short-segment posterior instrumentation to the sacrum (pedicle screws and rods). These constructs avoid posterior thoracic instrumentation and fusions, and avoid extension of posterior instrumentation to the pelvis. In the first 10 patients treated using this technique, thoracolumbar and lumbar major curve correction has averaged 71 and 82% in the immediate postoperative period ( n = 7), respectively, and 59 and 68% at 2-year follow-up, respectively. The technique is an appealing and attractive alternative for treatment of thoracolumbar and lumbar scoliosis in the adult population, and avoids the requirement for applying spinal fixation to the thoracic spine and the pelvis.
Measuring detergency of oily soils in the vicinity of phase inversion temperatures of commercial nonionic surfactants using an oil‐soluble dye
Authors: Goel Satish K.
Published: December 2006

We have used a simple technique to measure the detergency of model oily soil from 63∶35 blended polyester/cotton fabrics using solutions of commercial linear lauryl alcohol ethoxylates in the vicinity of their phase inversion temperatures (PIT). The method involves incorporation of an oil‐soluble dye in the oily soil, and measurement of reflectance at an appropriate wavelength directly on the fabric before and after wash. This technique was validated for our systems, and it provides an additional visual cue for the efficiency of soil removal. Hexadecane, which represents the linear hydrocarbon part of sebum (typical soil encountered in detergency) and has been widely studied in the literature, was used as the model oily soil. Maximal detergency occurs as a function of washing temperature at approximately 35, 62, and 80°C for ethoxylates with four, five, and six moles of ethylene oxide (C12EO4, C12EO5, and C12EO6), respectively. The oil/water interfacial tension, measured using the spinning drop method, exhibits corresponding minima and complements the detergency results. Addition of sodium carbonate, a salting‐out electrolyte, decreases the optimal detergency temperature (ODT) of C12EO5, shifting its behavior toward C12FO4 whereas addition of anionic surfactant increases the ODT of C12FO5, mimicking the behavior of a higher ethoxylate.
Foaming and emulsifying properties of soy protein isolate and hydrolysates in skin and hair care products
Authors: Wu Wu , Hettiarachchy N. S.
Published: December 2006

There is a growing market for formulating proteins into a wide variety of products including laundry detergents, bath products, shampoos, and skin cleansers. Soy protein isolate (SPI), soy protein hydrolysate A (SPHA) from papainmodified SPI, and hydrolysate B from papain‐ and proteasemodified SPI were used in blends with three major detergents, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLS), and disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate (DSLSS). SPHA was used to partially replace these detergents in bath soap, conditioning shampoo, and cream hand cleanser. The effectiveness of SPI, SPHA, or SPHB blends with the three detergents and their influence in prototype products on foaming and emulsifying properties were investigated.

At a blending ratio of 75% detergents and 25% proteins (75∶25), the foaming capacities (FC) were the same as detergents alone without adding proteins (100∶0); at 50∶50 blending ratio, FC values were not significantly reduced for blends with SDS and SLS; and at 25∶75 ratio the FC values were significantly lower, especially for blends with DSLSS. When replacing up to 100% of the major detergents in the skin and hair care products with SPHA, FC values remained almost unchanged except for hand cleanser FC values, which were lower at higher protein content (75 and 100%). In contrast with FC performance, emulsion stability (ES) values for all products increased with increasing soy protein content. Furthermore, FC and ES values for detergents blended with SPHA or SPHB were not significantly different from each other, but these values were always higher than those for detergents blended with SPI. Products in which soy protein or soy protein hydrolysates were used to partially replace detergents not only retained excellent foaming properties but also exhibited enhanced emulsifying properties. These results indicate that modified soy proteins may be used in laundry and cosmetic products to fulfill market demand.
Removal of cadmium and lead from soil using aescin as a biosurfactant
Authors: Hong Kyung‐Jin , Choi Young‐Kook , Tokunaga Shuzo , Ishigami Yutaka , Kajiuchi Toshio
Published: December 2006

Remediation of a soil contaminated with cadmium or lead was performed by a soil washing process using aescin as a biosurfactant. The removal of cadmium and lead from the soil was evaluated as a function of aescin concentration and pH in a batch process. A 30‐mM aescin solution was most effective in the removal of cadmium and lead at pH 6.8. Cadmium and lead migrated from the soil to the aescin‐containing aqueous phase, depending on the pH value. We found that 41% of cadmium (pH 7.8) and 25% of lead (pH 2.8) in the soil matrix migrated into a 30‐mM aescin solution. Also, the complexation of aescin with cadmium and lead ions was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and electrical conductivity measurements. As a result, the maximal complexation capacity of aescin with metal ions was approximately aescin/cadmium=2∶1 and aescin/lead=3∶1 on a molar basis. It was suggested that aescin may sequester cadmium and lead ions by the carboxylic and saccharide moieties. Then, the complex of aescin with cadmium or lead may migrate to the aqueous phase as the result of dispersion.
Mechanisms of regulation of gene expression by fatty acids
Authors: Nakamura Manabu T. , Cheon Yewon , Li Yue , Nara Takayuki Y.
Published: December 2006

Fatty acids (FA) regulate the expression of genes involved in lipid and energy metabolism. In particular, two transcription factors, sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1 c) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα), have emerged as key mediators of gene regulation by FA. SREBP‐1 c induces a set of lipogenic enzymes in liver. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), but not saturated or mono‐unsaturated FA, suppress the induction of lipogenic genes by inhibiting the expression and processing of SREBP‐1c. This unique effect of PUFA suggests that SREBP‐1c may regulate the synthesis of unsaturated FA for incorporation, into glycerolipids and cholesteryl esters. PPARα plays an essential role in metabolic adaptation to fasting by inducing the genes for mitochondrial and peroxisomal FA oxidation as well as those for ketogenesis in mitochondria. FA released from adipose tissue during fasting are considered as ligands of PPARα. Dietary PUFA, except for 18∶2 n′6, are likely to induced FA oxidation enzymes via PPARα as “feed‐forward” mechanism. PPARα is also required for regulating the synthesis of highly unsaturated FA, indicating pleiotropic functions of PPARα in the regulation of lipid metabolic pathways. It is yet to be determined whether FA regulate other transcription factors such as liver‐X receptor, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4, and carbohydrate response element binding protein.
What's so special about cholesterol?
Authors: Mouritsen Ole G. , Zuckermann Martin J.
Published: December 2006

Cholesterol (or other higher sterols such as ergosterol and phytosterols) is universally present in large amounts (20–40 mol%) in eukaryotic plasma membranes, whereas it is universally absent in the membranes of prokaryotes. Cholesterol has a unique ability to increase lipid order in fluid membranes while maintaining fluidity and diffusion rates. Cholesterol imparts low permeability barriers to lipid membranes and provides for large mechanical coherence. A short topical review is given of these special properties of cholesterol in relation to the structure of membranes, with results drawn from a variety of theoretical and experimental studies. Particular focus is put on cholesterol's ability to promote a special membrane phase, the liquidordered phase, which is unique for cholesterol (and other higher sterols like ergosterol) and absent in membranes containing the cholesterol precursor lanosterol. Cholesterol's role in the formation of special membrane domains and so‐called rafts is discussed.
Effect of Ru Nanoparticle Size on Hydrogenation of Soybean Oil
Authors: Xu Binbin , Liew Kong Yong , Li Jinlin
Published: December 2006

Four Ru nanoparticles of different mean sizes from 1.13 to 17.22 nm were prepared and used as catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of polyunsaturated soybean oil at 353 K and initial pressure of 1.5 MPa. The catalyst with the smallest mean size (1.13 nm) had the lowest activity, the activity increased as the mean size increased to 3.10 nm, then decreased with further increase in the mean particle size. Thecis–transisomerization rate decreased with the increase in particle size.
Evaluation of the sea ice simulation in a new coupled atmosphere‐ocean climate model (HadGEM1)
Authors: McLaren A. J. , Banks H. T. , Durman C. F. , Gregory J. M. , Johns T. C. , Keen A. B. , Ridley J. K. , Roberts M. J. , Lipscomb W. H. , Connolley W. M. , Laxon S. W.
Published: December 2006

A rapid increase in the variety, quality, and quantity of observations in polar regions is leading to a significant improvement in the understanding of sea ice dynamic and thermodynamic processes and their representation in global climate models. We assess the simulation of sea ice in the new Hadley Centre Global Environmental Model (HadGEM1) against the latest available observations. The HadGEM1 sea ice component uses elastic‐viscous‐plastic dynamics, multiple ice thickness categories, and zero‐layer thermodynamics. The model evaluation is focused on the mean state of the key variables of ice concentration, thickness, velocity, and albedo. The model shows good agreement with observational data sets. The variability of the ice forced by the North Atlantic Oscillation is also found to agree with observations.
2004 Indian Ocean tsunami flow velocity measurements from survivor videos
Authors: Fritz Hermann M. , Borrero Jose C. , Synolakis Costas E. , Yoo Jeseon
Published: December 2006

The tsunami of 26th December 2004 severely affected Banda Aceh along the North tip of Sumatra (Indonesia) at a distance of 250 km from the epicenter of the magnitude 9.0 earthquake. This tsunami flow velocity analysis focused on two survivor videos recorded within Banda Aceh more than 3 km from the open ocean. The exact locations of the tsunami eyewitness video recordings were revisited by the survey team between February 22 and 25, 2005 to record camera calibration ground control points. The motion of the camera during the recordings was determined. The individual video images were rectified with a direct linear transformation (DLT) assuming a planar water surface at the level. Finally a cross‐correlation based particle image velocimetry (PIV) analysis was applied to the rectified video images to determine instantaneous tsunami flow velocity fields. The measured tsunami flow velocities were within the range of 2 to 5 m/s.
Fiber optics opens window on stream dynamics
Authors: Selker John , van de Giesen Nick , Westhoff Martijn , Luxemburg Wim , Parlange Marc B.
Published: December 2006

A new approach to monitoring surface waters using distributed fiber optic temperature sensing is presented, allowing resolutions of temperature of 0.01°C every meter along a fiber optic cable of up to 10,000 m in length. We illustrate the potential of this approach by quantifying both stream temperature dynamics and groundwater inflows to the Maisbich, a first‐order stream in Luxembourg (49°47′N, 6°02′E). The technique provides a very rich dataset, which may be of interest to many types of environmental research, notably that of stream ecosystems.
M≥ 7.0 earthquake recurrence on the San Andreas fault from a stress renewal model
Authors: Parsons Tom
Published: December 2006

ForecastingM≥ 7.0 San Andreas fault earthquakes requires an assessment of their expected frequency. I used a three‐dimensional finite element model of California to calculate volumetric static stress drops from scenarioM≥ 7.0 earthquakes on three San Andreas fault sections. The ratio of stress drop to tectonic stressing rate derived from geodetic displacements yielded recovery times at points throughout the model volume. Under a renewal model, stress recovery times on ruptured fault planes can be a proxy for earthquake recurrence. I show curves of magnitude versus stress recovery time for three San Andreas fault sections. When stress recovery times were converted to expectedM≥ 7.0 earthquake frequencies, they fit Gutenberg‐Richter relationships well matched to observed regional rates ofM≤ 6.0 earthquakes. Thus a stress‐balanced model permits large earthquake Gutenberg‐Richter behavior on an individual fault segment, though it does not require it. Modeled slip magnitudes and their expected frequencies were consistent with those observed at the Wrightwood paleoseismic site if strict time predictability does not apply to the San Andreas fault.
Ready! Fire! Aim! The Status of Psychological Debriefing and Therapeutic Interventions: In the Work Place and after Disasters
Authors: Devilly Grant J. , Gist Richard , Cotton Peter
Published: December 2006

Psychological debriefing (PD) is a brief, short-term intervention aimed at mitigating long-term distress and preventing the emergence of posttraumatic stress. In recent years, it has become a ubiquitous intervention, one which has evolved as almost prescriptive following harrowing events and grew through a practical need to offer assistance to those who are exposed to severe trauma. Despite disturbing data from the recent refereed literature of psychology, it is still referred to as the “standard of care” for disaster and crisis response and its use in many quarters continues. This article critically reviews the evidence for and against its use and outlines the weaknesses in the research. The emphasis of this review is on the appropriateness of debriefing in organizations. This article also proposes a set of hypothesized constructs that may, in part, be responsible for the paradoxical effects found in some outcome studies on debriefing. Guidelines are also proposed to help organizations and professionals react appropriately using evidence-based interventions.
Classical Conditioning since Pavlov
Authors: Bitterman M. E.
Published: December 2006

In the three quarters of a century following Pavlov's work, the accumulation of factual information about classical conditioning has continued, but there has been little conceptual progress. The only thing we have now that approximates a workable general theory of conditioning was introduced more than 30 years ago and continues to receive a good deal of respectful consideration despite a variety of generally recognized shortcomings that little has been done to repair; nor does a systematic review of recent papers in leading journals give any good reason to think that a more satisfactory theory is in the making. A remedial strategy, recommended long ago by C. L. Hull and by E. R. Hilgard, is proposed and exemplified by some research with honeybees.
Androcentric Reporting of Gender Differences in APA Journals: 1965–2004
Authors: Hegarty Peter , Buechel Carmen
Published: December 2006

Androcentric thinking assumes maleness to be normative and attributes gender differences to females. A content analysis of articles reporting gender differences published between 1965 and 2004 in four American Psychological Association journals examined androcentric pronouns, explanations, and tables and graphs. Few articles used generic masculine pronouns to refer to both women and men. However, explanations of gender differences within articles that mentioned such differences in their abstracts and titles referenced attributes of women significantly more often than attributes of men. Most tables and graphs depicting gender differences positioned males' data before females' data, except when gender differences among parents were concerned. Psychologists have ceased to use male-centered pronouns, but female and male psychologists continue to report, explain, and depict gender differences in androcentric ways.
Application of the thermal quadrupole method to the propagation of thermal waves in multilayered cylinders
Authors: Salazar Agustín , Celorrio Ricardo
Published: December 2006

Up to now, research in photothermal techniques has been mainly restricted to samples with flat surfaces. In this work the surface temperature oscillation of multilayered cylindrical samples which are heated by a modulated light beam is calculated by using the quadrupole method. Different illumination geometries have been studied. Moreover, the lack of adherence between layers, as well as heat losses at the surface, has been considered in the model. Following this theoretical approach, photothermal techniques can be used for the quantitative thermophysical characterization of cylindrical samples with continuously varying in-depth thermal conductivity.
Negative Barkhausen jumps in permalloy thin-film microstructures
Authors: Yang Shuqiang , Beach G. S. D. , Erskine J. L.
Published: December 2006

Dual-beam high-resolution magneto-optic Kerr effect polarimetry and magnetic force microscopy (MFM) are used to study Barkhausen jumps in thin-film permalloy microstructures. Negative jumps (changes in local magnetization that oppose the drive field) are always accompanied by a nearly simultaneous positive jump, and the power-law dependence of jump-size statistical distributions of positive and negative jumps are similar. These observations, supported by sequential MFM domain images taken during field-driven reversal, indicate that negative jumps are driven by configurational changes of local domain structure associated with positive jumps that are governed by pinning, exchange, and anisotropy energies. The eddy-current coupling mechanism, that appears to account for negative jumps in bulk materials, is suppressed by sample thickness scaling in the thin-film microstructures.
Highly sensitive ethanol sensors based on {100}-bounded In2O3 nanocrystals due to face contact
Authors: Feng P. , Xue X. Y. , Liu Y. G. , Wang T. H.
Published: December 2006

The authors report the fabrication and characterization of ethanol sensors with extremely high sensitivity using In2O3 nanocrystals bounded by {100} facets as the sensing materials. The sensitivity of the sensors is about 10to1ppm ethanol, and increases nearly linearly up to about 200 as the ethanol concentration is raised to 100ppm. In the sensing film, the nanocrystals contact each other mainly through face contacts, most of which contribute to the gas sensing. This is the basis for the highly sensitive ethanol sensing.
Electron-drift detection using directional planar probes in a low-pressure coaxial surface-wave discharge
Authors: Letout S. , Boisse-Laporte C. , Alves L. L.
Published: December 2006

Directional planar probes are used to investigate the electron population in low-pressure (10–100mTorr) coaxial surface-wave (2.45GHz) discharges, considering the anisotropy possibly induced by a local plasma resonance. Probe characteristics exhibit a significant increase in the electronic current over a wide range of probe potentials, depending on radial position and direction of observation. Such behavior reveals the presence of highly anisotropic electrons. Experimental probe currents were simulated by considering multiple electron populations, with drifting Maxwellian velocity distributions. Results yield axial drift velocities corresponding to energies up to 30eV for populations of only a few 10−2 below the thermal background density.
Continuous wave operation of a non-self-sustained electric discharge pumped oxygen-iodine laser
Authors: Hicks A. , Utkin Yu. G. , Lempert W. R. , Rich J. W. , Adamovich I. V.
Published: December 2006

This letter discusses operation of an electric discharge excited oxygen-iodine laser using a high-pressure, non-self-sustained pulser-sustainer discharge. Small signal gain on the 1315nm iodine atom transition and the laser output power are measured in the M=3 supersonic cavity downstream of the discharge section. In a 15% O2–85% He mixture, at a discharge pressure of 60torr and discharge power of 1.5kW, the highest gain measured in the M=3 cavity is 0.022%∕cm, at the flow temperature of T=100±10K. At these conditions, the laser output power is 0.28W.
The Synthesis of Active-Site Directed Inhibitors of Some β-Glucan Hydrolases
Authors: Rodriguez EB , Stick RV
Published: December 2006

The 2,3-epoxypropyl, 3,4-epoxybutyl and 4,5-epoxypentyl β-glycosides of D-glucose, cellobiose and laminaribiose have been prepared. As well, the 4,5-epoxypentyl β-glycosides of cellotriose, laminaritriose and two other trisaccharides have been synthesized. 3,4-Epoxybutyl β-cellobioside has also been prepared with a 14C-label in the cellobiose residue.
Is Copper(II) Hydroxide an Intermediate in the Formation of the Hydroxide Chloride and Hydroxide Nitrate of Copper(II)?
Authors: Spark KM , Johnson BB , Wells JD
Published: December 2006

Copper(II) hydroxide chloride, Cu(OH)1.5Cl0.5, and copper(II) hydroxide nitrate, Cu(OH)1.5- (NO3)0.5, were precipitated by the stepwise addition of hydroxide to solutions containing Cu2+ at 10-4 or 10-3 M, and Cl - or NO3- at several concentrations between 10-3 and 10-1 M. The nature of the precipitates was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. pKs0 values estimated from the pH for 50% precipitation were 16.9 for Cu(OH)1.5Cl0.5 and 16.0 for Cu(OH)1.5(NO3)0.5. In each case, as OH- was added to a solution which contained Cu2+ with Cl - or NO3-, the pH rose initially to that characteristic of the formation of amorphous Cu(OH)2(pKs0 = 17.8), but decreased again after further additions of hydroxide or on aging to that characteristic of the more stable hydroxide chloride or hydroxide nitrate. It is suggested that Cu(OH)2 is an intermediate in the formation of Cu(OH)1.5Cl0.5 and Cu(OH)1.5(NO3)0.5.
Self‐efficacy and imagery use in older adult exercisers
Authors: Wesch Natascha N. , Milne Marcia I. , Burke Shauna M. , Hall Craig R.
Published: December 2006

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between self‐efficacy and imagery use in older male (n = 40) and female (n = 52) exercisers. Participants’ self‐efficacy was evaluated using the Self‐Efficacy Questionnaire for Exercisers, and their use of imagery was evaluated using the Exercise Imagery Questionnaire. Results revealed that older adult exercisers were most efficacious in terms of the task, followed by scheduling physical activity into their daily routines, and finally overcoming barriers related to physical activity. Older adult exercisers also reported using appearance and technique imagery to much the same extent, but used both significantly more than energy imagery. In addition, energy imagery predicted task self‐efficacy but none of the three functions of imagery predicted barrier and scheduling self‐efficacy.
Anthropometric assessment of Premiership soccer players in relation to playing position
Authors: Hencken Clare , White Colin
Published: December 2006

A squad of Premiership soccer players (n=24) provided informed consent to participate in this study. Using ISAK (International Society of Advancement of Kinanthropometry) accredited methods, a total of 39 measurements (sectioned as: skinfolds, girths, lengths, and breadths) were made for each player. The procedure involved three measures at each site to calculate a mean value and an acceptable technical error margin. All data collection was performed by an ISAK level 3 accredited anthropometrist. The data analysis consisted of demographic and anthropometric data, including fractionation of body mass and estimated body fat from sum of skinfolds. Scaling of the raw data was done by using the phantom strategem to obtain calculated data for inter‐player comparison. Mean calculated scores for playing position were obtained. A multivariate analysis of variance revealed no differences between positions (F 15,41.810=0.783, P=0.688). Previous studies have reported heterogeneity between playing positions. However, in this study, stature and body mass were not different between strikers, midfielders, defenders, and goalkeepers. Research has suggested that a soccer player's anthropometric dimensions can be a major determinant for success within a playing position. In this study, within‐position variation was quite large in some cases, which could indicate that a team that does not have the opportunity to hand‐pick players, based on anthropometric characteristics, may be at a disadvantage.
Neurotrophin 3 induces structural and functional modification of synapses through distinct molecular mechanisms
Authors: Je Hyun-Soo , Yang Feng , Zhou Jiangzheng , Lu Bai
Published: December 2006

The mechanisms by which neurotrophins elicit long-term structural and functional changes of synapses are not known. We report the mechanistic separation of functional and structural synaptic regulation by neurotrophin 3 (NT-3), using the neuromuscular synapse as a model. Inhibition of cAMP response element (CRE)–binding protein (CREB)–mediated transcription blocks the enhancement of transmitter release elicited by NT-3, without affecting the synaptic varicosity of the presynaptic terminals. Further analysis indicates that CREB is activated through Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase IV (CaMKIV) pathway, rather than the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) or cAMP pathway. In contrast, inhibition of MAPK prevents the NT-3–induced structural, but not functional, changes. Genetic and imaging experiments indicate that the small GTPase Rap1, but not Ras, acts upstream of MAPK activation by NT-3. Thus, NT-3 initiates parallel structural and functional modifications of synapses through the Rap1–MAPK and CaMKIV–CREB pathways, respectively. These findings may have implications in the general mechanisms of long-term synaptic modulation by neurotrophins.
p14–MP1-MEK1 signaling regulates endosomal traffic and cellular proliferation during tissue homeostasis
Authors: Teis David , Taub Nicole , Kurzbauer Robert , Hilber Diana , de Araujo Mariana E. , Erlacher Miriam , Offterdinger Martin , Villunger Andreas , Geley Stephan , Bohn Georg , Klein Christoph , Hess Michael W. , Huber Lukas A.
Published: December 2006

The extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) cascade regulates proliferation, differentiation, and survival in multicellular organisms. Scaffold proteins regulate intracellular signaling by providing critical spatial and temporal specificity. The scaffold protein MEK1 (mitogen-activated protein kinase and ERK kinase 1) partner (MP1) is localized to late endosomes by the adaptor protein p14. Using conditional gene disruption of p14 in mice, we now demonstrate that the p14–MP1-MEK1 signaling complex regulates late endosomal traffic and cellular proliferation. This function its essential for early embryogenesis and during tissue homeostasis, as revealed by epidermis-specific deletion of p14. These findings show that endosomal p14–MP1-MEK1 signaling has a specific and essential function in vivo and, therefore, indicate that regulation of late endosomal traffic by extracellular signals is required to maintain tissue homeostasis.
The nuclear receptor hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α acts as a morphogen to induce the formation of microvilli
Authors: Chiba Hideki , Sakai Naoyuki , Murata Masaki , Osanai Makoto , Ninomiya Takafumi , Kojima Takashi , Sawada Norimasa
Published: December 2006

Microvilli are actin-based organelles found on apical plasma membranes that are involved in nutrient uptake and signal transduction. Numerous components, including ezrin/radixin/moesin (ERM) proteins, have been identified that link filamentous actins to transmembrane proteins, but the signals driving microvillus biogenesis are not known. In this study, we show that the conditional and/or ectopic expression of a nuclear receptor, hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α), triggers microvillus morphogenesis. We also demonstrate that HNF4α expression induces ERM-binding phosphoprotein 50 (EBP50) expression and that attenuation of EBP50 using RNA interference inhibits microvillus development. We conclude that HNF4α acts as a morphogen to trigger microvillus formation.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy in Children: A Safe Technique with Major Symptom Relief and High Parental Satisfaction
Authors: Åvitsland Tone Lise , Kristensen Charlotte , Emblem Ragnhild , Veenstra Marijke , Mala Tom , Bjørnland Kristin
Published: December 2006

Background:

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is widely used for establishing enteral feeding. The aim of this study was to assess immediate and long‐term results after PEG insertion.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 121 children were retrospectively reviewed. Median age was 2.4 years (range, 4 months–13.2 years) at the time of PEG insertion. Patient morbidity, indications for PEG, preoperative findings and perioperative complications were registered retrospectively. Parents/caregivers of 85 children were interviewed for long‐term results.

Results:

Perioperative complications were seen in 12%. Twenty‐four percent died at a median of 15 months (range, 1.5 months–8 years) after PEG. Eighty‐five families were interviewed with a median follow‐up time of 5.6 years (range, 1–10 years). A substantial majority (94%) of parents/caregivers reported that the PEG had a positive influence on their child's situation, and 98% would have chosen PEG insertion again. Vomiting/retching improved in 61% of the children, and oral intake enhanced in 43%. Stoma‐related complications were frequent (73%). The gastrostomy tube was permanently removed at a median of 3 years (range, 7 months–7.3 years) after PEG placement in 25%. Delayed closure of the gastrocutaneous fistula after gastrostomy removal occurred in 48% of them. Time from insertion to removal was not predictive of delayed closure.

Conclusion:

PEG is a safe technique for establishing enteral feeding, even in very sick children. Major complications are rare, although most children experience minor stoma‐related problems. Parents/caregivers report that the gastrostomy is of great help for themselves and their child.
Chemical action that is stimulated by alternating currents
Authors: Brown Sidney George
Published: December 2006

The following experiments were carried out in the year 1905. Taking a simple voltaic cell, consisting of an anode and cathode of zinc and carbon, and an electrolyte of dilute sulphuric acid, it was found that polarisation, which takes place when the cell is joined to a local circuit of low resistance, could be diminished or completely abolished, by passing through the cell an alternating current of suitable value. Fig. 1 illustrates the arrangement of the cell, D, joined up to deliver current through the ampèremeter, B; under these conditions the cell is very quickly polarised, and the continuous current falls to a very low figure. On the other hand, if a suitable strength of alternating current of. say, 100 periods per second is sent through the cell from the leads A, the cell D will be completely depolarised and will give its full current delivery. L is a self-induction and K a capacity to prevent the alternating and continuous currents from flowing in each other's circuit, the only part of the circuit common to both being through the cell.