bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lowering blood alcohol content levels to save lives: The European experience
Authors: Albalate Daniel
Published: December 2007

Road safety is of increasing concern in developed countries because of the significant number of deaths and large economic losses. One tool commonly used by governments to deal with road accidents is the enactment of stricter policies and regulations. Drunk driving is one of the leading concerns in this field and several European countries have decided to lower their illegal Blood Alcohol Content levels to 0.5 mg/ml over the last decade. This study uses European panel‐based data (CARE) for the period 1991–2003 for the first time to evaluate the effectiveness of this transition by applying the differences‐in‐differences method in a fixed effects estimation that allows for any pattern of correlation (Cluster‐Robust). The results show positive policy impacts, particularly on certain groups of victims, such as young males in urban zones. However, there are reasons to expect a short lag in that effectiveness. © 2008 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
MPP programs emerging around the world19
Authors: Geva‐May Iris , Nasi Greta , Turrini Alex , Scott Claudia
Published: December 2007

This paper examines public policy and management programs in Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, and makes comparisons with similar programs in the United States. Our study of public policy programs shows that there are many challenges ahead in terms of making good decisions on the form and content of programs that will add value to governments and citizens. Appropriate choices in terms of program design and pedagogy will reflect different economic, social, environmental, and cultural influences and will be shaped by history, values, and the roles of public policy and management professionals within a particular governmental context.
Erratum: Fluorescent gel particles in the nanometer range for detection of metabolites in living cells
Authors: Almdal Kristoffer , Sun Honghao , Poulsen Allan K. , Arleth Lise , Jakobsen Iver , Gu Hong , Scharff‐Poulsen Anne Marie
Published: December 2007

In the article above published in Volume 17 of Polymers for Advanced Technologies, pages 790–793 (2006) and online in Wiley InterScience , (www.wileyinterscience.wiley.com) DOI 10.1002/pat.786 the following changes should be recognised:

On the second page of the paper, page 791, the sentence above figure 2 should have read ‘Since the headgroup areas of surfactants are a weak function of the condition under which they are used the function …’
World disparities in risk definition and management of retinoblastoma: A report from the International Retinoblastoma Staging Working Group
Authors: Chantada Guillermo L. , Doz François , Orjuela Manuela , Qaddoumi Ibrahim , Sitorus Rita S. , Kepak Tomas , Furmanchuk Anna , Castellanos Mauricio , Sharma Tarun , Chevez‐Barrios Patricia , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos ,   on behalf of the International Retinoblastoma Staging Working Group
Published: December 2007

Following from the publication of the International Retinoblastoma Staging System, an open internet discussion group was created at the www.cure4kids.org resource. The results of a survey distributed among participants are discussed. Although most patients with retinoblastoma were treated under prospective protocols, there was a wide variation in the definition of risk criteria and in the criteria for giving adjuvant chemotherapy following enucleation. Definition of high‐risk histological features and the criteria for use of adjuvant therapy will be standardized in future studies. Internet meetings are a valuable mechanism for enabling participation from under‐resourced countries in the development of cooperative studies. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:692–694. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The influence of surface morphology on the interfacial adhesion and fracture behavior of vacuum infused carbon fiber reinforced polymeric repairs
Authors: Tzetzis D. , Hogg P.J.
Published: December 2007

The current work is focused on the adhesion characteristics of vacuum infused repair patches on variously pretreated composite surfaces, given that the impregnation resin acts both as a consolidation agent of the reinforcement as well as a very thin bonding medium on a composite substrate. Initially, the pretreated surfaces, on which the repair patches were infused, were characterized with a number of surface analysis techniques such as X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser profilometry, dynamic contact angle and surface energy analysis. Double cantilever beam (DCB) repairs were then considered as the macroscopic method of assessment by infusing layers of carbon woven fabric onto the surface pretreated composite laminates. The behavior of the asymmetric DCB configuration was also studied by finite element modeling, for cohesive crack growth within the bondline, using the virtual crack extension (VCE) method. DCB testing results showed that the fracture resistance curves obtained from the repairs were lower than the numerical resistance curves. This was attributed to the preferential crack trajectory at the receptive infusion resin/pretreated composite interface. Correlation of the experimental fracture energies with the surface property data, revealed an explicit relationship between the surface roughness and the interfacial adhesion of the repair patches during crack initiation and propagation. The strain energy release rates of the DCB repairs were increased with increased surface roughness without dramatic change of the failure mode, as verified by the post‐failure examination of the fractured surfaces using scanning electron micrographs. POLYM. COMPOS., 29:92–108, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation of nanocomposites by melt compounding polylactic acid/polyamide 12/organoclay at different screw rotating speeds using a twin screw extruder
Authors: Hasook Aniwat , Muramatsu Hiroki , Tanoue Shuichi , Iemoto Yoshiyuki , Unryu Tsunemune
Published: December 2007

This study analyzes the effect of different screw rotating speeds on the clay dispersion and mechanical properties of nanocomposites prepared by melt compounding polylactic acid (PLA) with an organoclay in a co‐rotating twin screw extruder. Polyamide 12 (PA12) was used as an additive. Two different screw rotating speeds, 65 rpm and 150 rpm, were used in this study. According to the tensile strength data, the Young's modulus of the PLA/clay nanocomposites showed improvement at a screw rotating speed of 150 rpm. The Young's modulus improved with the addition of the organoclay to PLA matrix, but decreased when PA12 was added to the PLA matrix. The tensile strengths and elongations become small by adding organoclay to PLA matrix. The tensile strengths of the PLA/organoclay nanocomposites increased for the higher screw rotating speed (150 rpm). The d‐spacing of PLA/PA12/Clay nanocomposites was independent of the addition of PA12. The size of the clay aggregates in the PLA/PA12/Clay nanocomposites is smaller than that of PLA/Clay. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the PLA/Clay nanocomposite increases with addition of PA12, while on the whole, it had little influence on the tensile properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 29:1–8, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Tensile properties of carbon filled liquid crystal polymer composites
Authors: Keith Jason M. , King Julia A. , Grant Peter W. , Cole Andrew J. , Klett Bryan M. , Miskioglu Ibrahim
Published: December 2007

Electrically and thermally conductive resins can be produced by adding carbon fillers. Mechanical properties such as tensile modulus, ultimate tensile strength, and strain at ultimate tensile strength are vital to the composite performance in fuel cell bipolar plate applications. This research focused on performing compounding runs followed by injection molding and tensile testing of carbon filled Vectra A950RX liquid crystal polymer composites. The four carbon fillers investigated included an electrically conductive carbon black, thermocarb synthetic graphite particles, and two carbon fibers (Fortafil 243 and Panex 30). For each different filler type, resins were produced and tested that contained varying amounts of these single carbon fillers. The carbon fiber samples exhibited superior tensile properties, with a large increase in tensile modulus over the base polymer, and very low drop in the ultimate tensile strength as the filler volume fraction was increased. The strain at the ultimate tensile strength was least affected by the addition of the Panex carbon fiber but was significantly affected by the Fortafil carbon fiber. In general, composites containing synthetic graphite did not perform as well as carbon fiber composites. Carbon black composites exhibited poor tensile properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 29:15–21, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Characterization, chain mobility, and thermal properties of the hydrophilic poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐acrylic acid) colloids
Authors: Shih Chien‐Chou , Wu Kuo‐Hui , Chang Te‐Chuan , Liu Hsing‐Kwo
Published: December 2007

An amphiphilic colloidal copolymer containing methyl methacrylate (MMA) and sodium acrylate at different compositions was prepared by a free‐emulsion polymerization method with potassium persulfate as an initiator, and it was then doped in HCl solution to obtain the acid form poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐acrylic acid) (PMMAA) copolymer. The copolymers were characterized by means of gel permeation chromatography, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, 13C solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer, infrared spectra, and differential scanning calorimeter. The copolymers have only a single, and nearly constant, glass transition temperature of 124°C, at which there is no observable effect on the structure of the copolymer. The monomer reactivity ratios rNaAA and rMMA were rNaAA = 1.06, rMMA = 0.70 and rNaAA = 1.02, and rMMA = 0.63 estimated respectively by using the classical Fineman‐Ross and the Kelen‐Tüdös methods. The results revealed that the copolymer had a tendency towards the formation of small acrylic acid blocks that have very short segments of MMA. The proton spin‐lattice relaxation time in the rotating frame T indicated single composition‐dependent for all copolymers, which imply dynamic homogeneity and a good miscibility with chain dynamics on the upper spatial scale of 3 nm existed in the PMMAA copolymer. An increase of the thermal stability of the copolymers was shown from the apparent activation energy of the thermal degradation process for the copolymers relative to the homopolymers. POLYM. COMPOS., 29:37–44, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Discussion of aqueous urethane acrylate oligomers with sulfoisophthalate on the antistatic hydrophilic finishing of different fabrics
Authors: Yen Meng‐Shung , Huang Ching‐Nan , Hong Po‐Da
Published: December 2007

In this study, PEG(SE) containing sulfonic acid group was produced by transesterification of dimethyl 5‐sulfoisophthalate sodium salt (SIP) with PEG. The reactive urethane acrylate oligomers were synthesized by using SE as soft segment, isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) as hard segment, and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) as blocking agent. Their solution properties and thermal properties were investigated. Dipping process was carried out on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric, polyamide (nylon) fabric, and cotton fabric for hydrophilic finishing and the effects of processing condition on the fixation behavior and hydrophilic property of treated fabric have been discussed. The conclusions are as follows: the particle size of oligomer solutions are about 45–90 μm, surface tension of solutions are below 43 dyn/cm, and they have smaller contact angle than water. The particle size, particle variance, and streaming current reading decreased, but the surface tension and contact angle enhanced upon increasing PEG molecular weight. The melting point of oligomer is 38°C–52°C and the glass transition point is −18°C to −25°C. In comparison with the fabric finishing, the add‐on of PET fabric is the highest, followed by nylon, then cotton. The durability of treated cotton fabric is the highest, followed by PET, then nylon. The hydrophilicity is most stable for nylon fabric with PEG molecular weight of 2,000, and cotton and PET fabric with molecular weight of 1,000. POLYM. COMPOS., 29:45–57, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of small‐amplitude oscillatory shear on polymeric reaction
Authors: Xie Fan , Zhou Chixing , Yu Wei
Published: December 2007

The effects of small‐amplitude oscillatory shear on the polymeric reaction between poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) and epoxy in melts were studied. Two kinds of samples, sandwich sample and blending sample, were prepared for reaction kinetics by using a new rheological method which correlates the change of the rheological property of reactive system with the conversion of the in situ formed copolymers. The results indicated that the reaction between PBT and epoxy was hardly affected by the small‐amplitude oscillatory shear. The increase of apparent reaction rate in sandwich sample was due to the increase of molecular diffusion by oscillatory shear. POLYM. COMPOS., 29:72–76, 2008. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Reactions of aryl chlorothionoformates with quinuclidines. A kinetic study
Authors: Castro Enrique A. , Aliaga Margarita , Campodonico Paola R. , Leis J. Ramón , García‐Río Luis , Santos José G.
Published: December 2007

The reactions of quinuclidines with phenyl, 4‐chlorophenyl, 4‐cyanophenyl, and 4‐nitrophenyl chlorothionoformates (1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively) are subjected to a kinetic study in aqueous solution, at 25.0°C, and an ionic strength of 0.2 M (KCl). The reactions are studied by following spectrophotometrically the release of the corresponding phenoxide anion/phenol generated in the parallel hydrolysis of the substrates. Under amine excess, pseudo‐first‐order rate coefficients (kobs) are found. Plots of kobs versus [amine] are linear, with slope kN. The Brønsted‐type plots (log kN vs. pKa of aminium ions) are linear, with slopes β = 0.26, 0.22, 0.19, and 0.28 for the reactions with 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. The magnitudes of the slopes indicate that these mechanisms are stepwise, with rate‐determining formation of a zwitterionic tetrahedral intermediate (T±). A dual parametric equation with the pKa of the nucleophiles and non‐leaving groups show βN = 0.26 and βnlg = −0.16, also in accordance with the proposed mechanism. On the other hand, the reactivity of these thiocarbonyl substrates and their carbonyl derivatives was studied using their hardness index and compared with their experimental parameters, confirming the proposed mechanisms. By comparison of the title reactions with similar aminolyses, the following conclusions arise: (i) The mechanism of the reactions under investigation is stepwise with rate‐determining formation of T±. (ii) The reactivity of the substrates toward quinuclidines follows the order 4 > 3 > 2 > 1. (iii) Quinuclidines are more reactive than isobasic pyridines toward chlorothionoformates. (iv) Chlorothionoformates are less reactive than chloroformates towards quinuclidines in accordance with the HSAB principle. (v) The kN values for phenyl chloroformate and 4 can be correlated with the pKa of quinuclidines and also with the hardness values calculated by the HF/3‐21G level of theory. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microporous membranes obtained from polypropylene blends with superior permeability properties
Authors: Sadeghi Farhad , Ajji Abdellah , Carreau Pierre J.
Published: December 2007

A blend of two polypropylene resins, different in molecular structure, one with linear chains and the other with long chain branches, was investigated to develop microporous membranes through melt extrusion (cast film process) followed by film stretching. The branched component significantly affected the row‐nucleated lamellar crystalline structure in the precursor films. The arrangement and orientation of the crystalline and amorphous phases were examined by wide angle X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy methods. It was found that blending of a small amount of a long chain branched polypropylene improved the orientation of the both crystalline and amorphous phases in the precursor films. Annealing, followed by cold and hot stretching were consequently employed to generate and enlarge pores in the films as a result of lamellae separation. SEM micrographs of the surface of the membranes obtained from the blend revealed elongated thin fibrils and a large number of lamellae. The lamellae thickness for the blend was much shorter in comparison to that of the linear PP precursor film. The permeability of the samples to water vapor and N2 was significantly enhanced (more than twice) for the blend system. The porosity of the blend membrane showed a significant improvement with a value of 53% compared to 41% for the linear PP membrane. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 148–157, 2008
Isothermal and nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of nylon 6/functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotube composites
Authors: Chen Erh‐Chian , Wu Tzong‐Ming
Published: December 2007

The well dispersion of functionalized multi‐walled carbon nanotube (f‐MWCNT) in nylon 6 matrix was prepared by solution mixing techniques. The isothermal and nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of nylon 6 and nylon 6/f‐MWCNT nanocomposites were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray diffraction and polarized optical microscopy analysis. DSC isothermal results revealed that the activation energy of nylon 6 extensively decreased by adding 1 wt % f‐MWCNT into nylon 6, suggesting that the addition of small amount of f‐MWCNT probably induces the heterogeneous nucleation. Nevertheless, the addition of more f‐MWCNT into nylon 6 matrix reduced the transportation ability of polymer chains during crystallization process and thus increased the activation energy. The nonisothermal crystallization of nylon 6/f‐MWCNT nanocomposites was also discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 158–169, 2008
Tumor antigens eliciting autoantibody response in cancer of gingivo‐buccal complex
Authors: Shukla Sanjeev , Govekar Rukmini B. , Sirdeshmukh Ravi , Sundaram Curam S. , D'Cruz Anil K. , Pathak K. Alok , Kane Shubhada V. , Zingde Surekha M.
Published: December 2007

Cancer of the gingivo‐buccal complex (GBC) is a major cancer in Indian men. This study reports the identification of tumor antigens, which elicit an antibody response in cancer of GBC using immunoproteomics. Proteins from KB cells separated by 2‐D PAGE, were immunoblotted with IgG from sera of 28 cancer patients, 12 patients with leukoplakia, and 28 healthy individuals. Antigens detected by the IgGs from the patient's sera were different among different individuals with presence of any single antigen ranging from 7 to 79%. Several of these antigens have been identified by MS and confirmed by immunostaining. They are three forms of α‐enolase, peroxiredoxin‐VI, annexin‐II, HSP70, pyruvate kinase, α‐tubulin, β‐tubulin, ATP‐synthase, phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM), aldose reductase, triosephosphate isomerase, and cyclophilin‐A. Except, HSP70, these antigens are being reported in cancer of GBC for the first time. Pyruvate kinase and aldose reductase have not been reported to elicit autoantibody response in any other cancer earlier. Initial results show that autoantibody response against α‐enolase, HSP70, annexin‐II, peroxiredoxin‐VI, and aldose reductase are also seen in patients with leukoplakia of GBC, which suggest early occurrence of these autoantibodies during the process of oral carcinogenesis. These antigens can be further validated for their use in cancer management by immune intervention.
Toxicoproteomics and its application to human health risk assessment
Authors: Ge Yue , Preston R. Julian , Owen Russell D.
Published: December 2007

Toxicoproteomics is the use of proteomic technologies to better understand environmental and genetic factors, toxic mechanisms, and modes of action in response to acute exposure to toxicants and in the long‐term development of diseases caused or influenced by these exposures. Use of toxicoproteomic technologies to identify key biochemical pathways, mechanisms, and biomarkers of exposure and toxicity will decrease the uncertainties that are associated with human health risk assessments. This review provides an overview of toxicoproteomics from human health risk assessment perspectives. Key toxicoproteomic technologies such as 2‐D gel‐based proteomic methods and toxicoproteomic approaches are described, and examples of applications of these technologies and methodologies in the risk assessment context are presented. The discussion includes a focus on challenges and future directions.
Grand Rounds in Proteomics at the FDA White Oak, Silver Spring, MD, USA, April 3, 2007
Authors: Goodsaid Federico , Bandow Julia Elisabeth , Mischak Harald
Published: December 2007

The application of proteomics in drug development could be a major source of novel biomarkers to improve the efficacy and safety of new drugs. Training of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewers on current applications of proteomics is important for the future review of proteomic data.

A Grand Rounds in Proteomics was held on April 3, 2007 at the FDA in White Oak, Silver Spring, MD, USA. The goal of this activity was to contribute to reviewer training as well as to generate discussions regarding the readiness of proteomic platforms in drug development, similar in scope to applications in genomics and metabolomics. Several speakers from industry and academia presented data on proteomic applications in drug development (meeting agenda available in the Supporting Information).

An additional goal of this meeting was to encourage proteomic data submissions within the Voluntary eXploratory Data Submissions (VXDS) at the FDA. VXDS meetings represent key venues for exchange between the FDA and sponsors of scientific and clinical data on exploratory biomarkers. The FDA has received a limited number of VXDS submissions containing proteomic data. This meeting was an opportunity to identify possible areas in proteomics where future VXDS submissions may be received. Voluntary submissions have been transformed into regulatory submissions in genomics, and a similar path may also be followed by proteomic data in the future. Proteomic biomarkers may also be suitable for submission to the Pilot Process for Biomarker Qualification at the FDA.
Effect of aqueous‐ethanol extract from Crocus sativus (saffron) on guinea‐pig isolated heart
Authors: Boskabady M. H. , Shafei M. N. , Shakiba A. , Sefidi H. Sang
Published: December 2007

In this study, the effects of an aqueous‐ethanol extract from Crocus sativus on heart rate and contractility were examined. Isolated guinea‐pig hearts were perfused through the aorta in a Langendorff mode. Heart rate and contractility were determined in the presence of four concentrations of the extract (0.1, 0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 mg%) and diltiazem (0.1, 1, 10 and 100 µm) in perfused heart with: (1) ordinary Krebs solution (group 1, n = 9), (2) calcium‐free Krebs solution (group 2, n = 7). In group 1, three higher concentrations of diltiazem (1, 10 and 100 µm), but only the highest (5.0 mg%) and two higher concentrations (1.0 and 5.0 mg%) of the extract caused significant reduction in heart rate and contractility, respectively (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). In group 2, the highest (100 µm) and two higher concentrations (10 and 100 µm) of diltiazem (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01), but only the highest concentration of the extract showed significant reductions in the heart rate and contractility (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). There were significant negative correlations between concentrations of the extract and diltiazem and their effects in both groups (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). These results suggested a potent inhibitory effect of aqueous‐ethanol extract from C. sativus on the calcium channel of guinea‐pig heart. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new antifungal and antiprotozoal depside from the andean lichen Protousnea poeppigii
Authors: Schmeda‐Hirschmann Guillermo , Tapia Alejandro , Lima Beatriz , Pertino Mariano , Sortino Maximiliano , Zacchino Susana , Arias Antonieta Rojas de , Feresin Gabriela Egly
Published: December 2007

Extracts from the Andean lichens Protousnea poeppigii and Usnea florida displayed antimicrobial activity against the pathogenic fungi Microsporum gypseum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and T. rubrum with MIC values between 50 and 100 µg/mL. From the active extracts, four main metabolites were isolated and identified as the new depside, isodivaricatic acid, and the known metabolites 5‐propylresorcinol, divaricatinic acid and usnic acid. Isodivaricatic acid and divaricatinic acid presented antifungal effect towards M. gypseum with a MIC of 50 µg/mL and against T. mentagrophytes and T. rubrum and with MIC values of 50 and 100 µg/mL, respectively. The new isodivaricatic acid was active towards Leishmania amazonensis, Leishmania brasiliensis and Leishmania infantum promastigotes with 100% lysis at 100 µg/mL.

The activity of the new compound decreased on acetylation of the hydroxy groups as well as on methylation of the acid function. The structures were elucidated by spectroscopic means. The spectroscopic data of isodivaricatic acid are presented here for the first time. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypolipidemic activity of Anethum graveolens in rats
Authors: Hajhashemi Valiollah , Abbasi Naser
Published: December 2007

The aerial parts of Anethum graveolens (dillweed) are used in Iran as a hypolipidemic agent. The scientific basis for its use has yet to be established. In this study the hypolipidemic activity of dill powder and its essential oil (its most important fraction) were evaluated in male Wistar rats (180 ± 20 g) fed a high cholesterol diet. Anethum graveolens essential oil (AGEO) was prepared by hydrodistillation and analysed using GC/MS. AGEO had a yield of 2% and GC/MS analysis showed that α‐phellandrene (32%), limonene (28%) and carvone (28%) were its major components. Daily oral administration of AGEO to rats at doses of 45, 90 and 180 mg/kg for 2 weeks significantly and in a dose‐dependent manner reduced total cholesterol, triglyceride and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C). AGEO also increased significantly high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). Anethum graveolens powder when added to the diet of animals showed similar effects on serum lipids. It is concluded that Anethum graveolens has significant lipid lowering effects and is a promising cardioprotective agent. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Verticinone induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in immortalized and malignant human oral keratinocytes
Authors: Yun Young‐Gab , Jeon Byung‐Hun , Lee Jong‐Hyun , Lee Sun‐Kyung , Lee Hwa‐Jeong , Jung Kyung‐Hee , Jun‐Lee  , Jun Chang‐Duk , Lee Suk‐Keun , Kim Eun‐Cheol
Published: December 2007

Although verticinone, a major alkaloid isolated from the bulbus of Fritillaria ussuriensis, has been shown to induce differentiation in human leukemia cells, the exact mechanism of this action is not completely understood in cancer cells. Verticinone was used to conduct growth and apoptosis‐related experiments for two stages of oral cancer on immortalized human oral keratinocytes (IHOKs) and primary oral cancer cells (HN4). The procedures included MTT assay, three‐dimensional (3‐D) raft cultures, Western blotting, cell cycle analysis, nuclear staining and cytochrome c expression related to the apoptosis signaling pathway.

Verticinone inhibited the proliferation of immortalized and malignant oral keratinocytes in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. In 3‐D organotypic culture, verticinone‐treated cells were less mature than the control cells, displaying low surface keratinization and decreased epithelial thickness. The major mechanism by which verticinone inhibits growth appears to be induced apoptosis and G0G1 cell cycle arrest. This finding is supported by the results of the cell cycle analysis, FITC‐Annexin V staining, DNA fragmentation assay and Hoechst 33258 staining. Furthermore, the cytosolic level of cytochrome c was increased, while the expression of Bcl‐2 protein was gradually down‐regulated and Bax was up‐regulated, accompanied by caspase‐3 activation. The data suggests that verticinone may induce apoptosis through a caspase pathway mediated by mitochondrial damage in immortalized keratinocytes and oral cancer cells. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of triacetone triperoxide (TATP) and TATP synthetic intermediates by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Sigman Michael E. , Clark C. Douglas , Caiano Tara , Mullen Rebecca
Published: December 2007

The explosive triacetone triperoxide (TATP) has been analyzed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) on a linear quadrupole instrument, giving a 62.5 ng limit of detection in full scan positive ion mode. In the ESI interface with no applied fragmentor voltage the m/z 245 [TATP + Na]+ ion was observed along with m/z 215 [TATP + Na – C2H6]+ and 81 [(CH3)2CO + Na]+. When TATP was ionized by ESI with an applied fragmentor voltage of 75 V, ions at m/z 141 [C4H6O4 + Na]+ and 172 [C5H9O5 + Na]+ were also observed. When the precipitates formed in the synthesis of TATP were analyzed before the reaction was complete, a new series of ions was observed in which the ions were separated by 74 m/z units, with ions occurring at m/z 205, 279, 353, 427, 501, 575, 649 and 723. The series of evenly spaced ions is accounted for as oligomeric acetone carbonyl oxides terminated as hydroperoxides, [HOOC(CH3)2{OOC(CH3)2}nOOH + Na]+ (n = 1, 2 … 8). The ESI‐MS spectra for this homologous series of oligoperoxides have previously been observed from the ozonolysis of tetramethylethylene at low temperatures. Precipitates from the incomplete reaction mixture, under an applied fragmentor voltage of 100 V in ESI, produced an additional ion observed at m/z 99 [C2H4O3 + Na]+, and a set of ions separated by 74 m/z units occurring at m/z 173, 247, 321, 395, 469 and 543, proposed to correspond to [CH3CO{OOC(CH3)2}nOOH + Na]+ (n = 1,2 … 5). Support for the assigned structures was obtained through the analysis of both protiated and perdeuterated TATP samples. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nine themes in campus racial climates and implications for institutional transformation
Authors: Harper Shaun R. , Hurtado Sylvia
Published: December 2007

This chapter synthesizes fifteen years of published research on campus racial climates. It also presents nine themes that emerged from a qualitative study of campus racial climates at five predominantly White universities.
Critical race perspectives on theory in student affairs
Authors: Patton Lori D. , McEwen Marylu , Rendón Laura , Howard‐Hamilton Mary F.
Published: December 2007

In this chapter, the use of theory and its role in understanding racial realities are addressed through a critical race theory lens. The chapter offers recommendations for creating and applying theoretical race perspectives in higher education and student affairs.
The equity scorecard: A collaborative approach to assess and respond to racial/ethnic disparities in student outcomes
Authors: Harris Frank , Bensimon Estela Mara
Published: December 2007

The Equity Scorecard, a nationally recognized and widely used organizational learning process designed to foster institutional change through the identification and elimination of racial disparities among college students, is described in this chapter. The effectiveness of this process and its potential impact are also discussed.
Resituating race into the movement toward multiculturalism and social justice
Authors: Cobham B. Afeni , Parker Tara L.
Published: December 2007

A historical perspective is offered to explain how race has declined in significance as higher education and student affairs have moved toward multicultural social justice. Educators and administrators are urged to reconsider race and racism in dialogues, programs, policies, and institutional change efforts.
Plant cover estimation based on the beta distribution in grassland vegetation
Authors: Chen Jun , Shiyomi Masae , Bonham Charles D. , Yasuda Taisuke , Hori Yoshimichi , Yamamura Yasuo
Published: December 2007

Cover is the most frequently used measure of abundance in vegetation surveys of grasslands, and various qualitative and semi‐quantitative methods have been developed for visual estimation of this metric. Field survey is usually made with a point‐grid plate. The frequency distributions of cover derived from point‐grid counts follow a beta distribution. Combining point‐grid counts from a field survey and the beta distribution for a statistical analysis, we developed an effort‐saving cover‐measurement method. Cover is measured with a transparent plastic plate on which, for example, 10 × 10 = 100 points are arranged in a lattice with 1‐cm grid spacing (thus, one point count represents 1 cm2 of cover). N quadrats are set out at randomly dispersed sites in a grassland, and, in each, the plastic plate is used for making counts. The number of grid points located above a given species is counted in every quadrat until the number of counted points reaches a given value c, which is determined in advance. If the number of counted points reaches c in a quadrat, the count is stopped and the quadrat is classified in the category “>c”. In quadrats where c is not attained, full point counts above the species bodies are made. Let g be the number of observed quadrats whose cover is ≤c. Using these g cover measurements and the number of quadrats (N − g) with cover >c, we can quantitatively estimate cover for each species and the spatial pattern index value based on the maximum likelihood method. In trial counts using this method, the time savings varied between 5% and 41%, depending on the shape of the cover frequency distribution. The mean cover value estimates agreed well with conventional measures without a stopping point (i.e., based on full counts of all points in each quadrat).
Semiconcavity results for optimal control problems admitting no singular minimizing controls
Authors: Cannarsa P. , Rifford L.
Published: December 2007

Semiconcavity results have generally been obtained for optimal control problems in absence of state constraints. In this paper, we prove the semiconcavity of the value function of an optimal control problem with end-point constraints for which all minimizing controls are supposed to be nonsingular.
Multiple positive solutions for a critical quasilinear equation via Morse theory
Authors: Cingolani Silvia , Vannella Giuseppina
Published: December 2007

We deal with the existence of solutions for the quasilinear problem

(P_{\lambda })\:
\begin{cases}
−\mathrm{\Delta }_{p}u = \lambda u^{q−1} + u^{p^{ \ast }−1} & \text{in}\:\Omega , \\ u > 0 & \text{in}\:\Omega , \\ u = 0 & \text{on}\:\partial \Omega ,
\end{cases}

where

Ω

is a bounded domain in

\mathbb{R}^{N}

with smooth boundary,

N⩾p^{2}

,

1 < p⩽q < p^{ \ast }

,

p^{ \ast } = Np/ (N−p)

,

\lambda > 0

is a parameter. Using Morse techniques in a Banach setting, we prove that there exists

\lambda ^{ \ast } > 0

such that, for any

\lambda \in (0,\lambda ^{ \ast })

,

(P_{\lambda })

has at least

\mathcal{P}_{1}(\Omega )

solutions, possibly counted with their multiplicities, where

\mathcal{P}_{t}(\Omega )

is the Poincaré polynomial of

Ω

. Moreover for

p⩾2

we prove that, for each

\lambda \in (0,\lambda ^{ \ast })

, there exists a sequence of quasilinear problems, approximating

(P_{\lambda })

, each of them having at least

\mathcal{P}_{1}(\Omega )

distinct positive solutions.

On s'interesse à l'existence de solutions pour l'équation quasi-linéaire

(P_{\lambda })\:
\begin{cases}
−\mathrm{\Delta }_{p}u = \lambda u^{q−1} + u^{p^{ \ast }−1} & \text{in}\:\Omega , \\ u > 0 & \text{in}\:\Omega , \\ u = 0 & \text{on}\:\partial \Omega ,
\end{cases}

où

Ω

est un domaine de

\mathbb{R}^{N}

avec frontière régulière,

N⩾p^{2}

,

1 < p⩽q < p^{ \ast }

,

p^{ \ast } = Np/ (N−p)

,

\lambda > 0

est un paramètre. Par des techniques de la théorie de Morse dans le cadre des espaces de Banach, un démontre l'existence de

\lambda ^{ \ast } > 0

tel que, pour tout

\lambda \in (0,\lambda ^{ \ast })

,

(P_{\lambda })

possède au moins

\mathcal{P}_{1}(\Omega )

solutions, considerées avec leur multiplicité, où

\mathcal{P}_{1}(\Omega )

est le polynôme de Poincaré de

Ω

. En outre, pour

p⩾2

, on démontre que, pour tout

\lambda \in (0,\lambda ^{ \ast })

, il existe une suite de problèmes quasi-linéaires qui approchent

(P_{\lambda })

, chacun desquels a au moins

\mathcal{P}_{1}(\Omega )

solutions positives différentes.
A general class of phase transition models with weighted interface energy
Authors: Acerbi E. , Bouchitté G.
Published: December 2007

We study a family of singular perturbation problems of the kind

\mathrm{\inf }\Bigg\{\frac{1}{ɛ}\int \limits_{\Omega }f(u,ɛ\mathrm{∇}u,ɛ\rho )\:dx\text{:}\:\int \limits_{\Omega }u = m_{0},\:\int \limits_{\Omega }\rho = m_{1}\Bigg\},

where

u

represents a fluid density and the non-negative energy density

f

vanishes only for

u = \alpha

or

u = \beta

. The novelty of the model is the additional variable

\rho ⩾0

which is also unknown and interplays with the gradient of

u

in the formation of interfaces. Under mild assumptions on

f

, we characterize the limit energy as

ɛ\rightarrow 0

and find for each

f

a transition energy (well defined when

u \in \mathrm{BV}(\Omega ;\{\alpha ,\beta \})

and

ρ

is a measure) which depends on the

n−1

dimensional density of the measure

ρ

on the jump set of

u

. An explicit formula is also given.
Differences in the substrate binding sites of murine and human proteinase 3 and neutrophil elastase
Authors: Hajjar Eric , Korkmaz Brice , Reuter Nathalie
Published: December 2007

Understanding the differences between murine (m) and human (h) proteinase 3 (PR3) and neutrophil elastase (NE) is crucial for the interpretation of in vivo studies of inflammatory processes. We built structural models of mPR3 and mNE and analyzed their surface properties. We performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on several enzyme–peptide complexes to investigate their interaction patterns. The analysis of trajectories confirms that murine and human complexes have different interaction patterns with peptidic substrates. We provide a map of the binding sites of the murine proteases and suggest sequence motifs that we predict to be specific for mPR3 or mNE.
Neuronal control of energy homeostasis
Authors: Gao Qian , Horvath Tamas L.
Published: December 2007

Neuronal control of body energy homeostasis is the key mechanism by which animals and humans regulate their long‐term energy balance. Various hypothalamic neuronal circuits (which include the hypothalamic melanocortin, midbrain dopamine reward and caudal brainstem autonomic feeding systems) control energy intake and expenditure to maintain body weight within a narrow range for long periods of a life span. Numerous peripheral metabolic hormones and nutrients target these structures providing feedback signals that modify the default “settings” of neuronal activity to accomplish this balance. A number of molecular genetic tools for manipulating individual components of brain energy homeostatic machineries, in combination with anatomical, electrophysiological, pharmacological and behavioral techniques, have been developed, which provide a means for elucidating the complex molecular and cellular mechanisms of feeding behavior and metabolism. This review will highlight some of these advancements and focus on the neuronal circuitries of energy homeostasis.
Effect of uncoupling protein‐1 expression on 3T3‐L1 adipocyte gene expression
Authors: Senocak Fatih S. , Si Yaguang , Moya Colby , Russell William K. , Russell David H. , Lee Kyongbum , Jayaraman Arul
Published: December 2007

The mitochondrial respiratory uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) partially uncouples substrate oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation to promote the dissipation of cellular biochemical energy as heat in brown adipose tissue. We have recently shown that expression of UCP1 in 3T3‐L1 white adipocytes reduces the accumulation of triglycerides. Here, we investigated the molecular basis underlying UCP1 expression in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes. Gene expression data showed that forced UCP1 expression down‐regulated several energy metabolism pathways; but ATP levels were constant. A metabolic flux analysis model was used to reflect the gene expression changes onto metabolic processes and concordance was observed in the down‐regulation of energy consuming pathways. Our data suggest that adipocytes respond to long‐term mitochondrial uncoupling by minimizing ATP utilization.
Imatinib interferes with survival of multi drug resistant Kaposi's sarcoma cells
Authors: Basciani Sabrina , Vona Rosa , Matarrese Paola , Ascione Barbara , Mariani Stefania , Gnessi Lucio , Malorni Walter , Straface Elisabetta
Published: December 2007

Multi drug resistance (MDR) is defined as the ability of tumor cells to become resistant to unrelated drugs. Tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib has been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of certain tumors. In particular, imatinib inhibits Bcr‐Abl kinase activity, c‐kit and the phosphorylation of platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) receptors. In this work, we show that imatinib inhibits PDGF phosphorylation not only in wt Kaposi sarcoma (KS) but also in multi drug resistant KS cells. This was associated with an increased apoptosis in wt cells and an increased autophagy in MDR‐KS cells. These data add new insights to the possible use of imatinib in the overcoming of MDR in KS cells.
The physiological and pathophysiological role of adiponectin and adiponectin receptors in the peripheral tissues and CNS
Authors: Kadowaki Takashi , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Kubota Naoto
Published: December 2007

Adiponectin is an abundantly expressed adipokine in adipose tissue and has direct insulin sensitizing activity. A decrease in the circulating levels of adiponectin by interactions between genetic factors and environmental factors causing obesity has been shown to contribute to the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and atherosclerosis. In addition to its insulin sensitizing actions, adiponectin has central actions in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Adiponectin enhances AMP‐activated protein kinase activity in the arcuate hypothalamus via its receptor AdipoR1 to stimulate food intake and decreases energy expenditure. We propose a hypothesis on the physiological role of adiponectin: a starvation gene in the course of evolution by promoting fat storage on facing the loss of adiposity.
Phospho‐mimicry mutant of atToc33 affects early development of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Oreb Mislav , Zoryan Mikael , Vojta Aleksandar , Maier Uwe G. , Eichacker Lutz A. , Schleiff Enrico
Published: December 2007

The precursor protein receptor at the chloroplast outer membrane atToc33 is a GTPase, which can be inactivated by phosphorylation in vitro, being arrested in the GDP loaded state. To assess the physiological function of phosphorylation, attoc33 knock out mutants were complemented with a mutated construct mimicking the constitutively phosphorylated state. Our data suggest that the reduced functionality of the mutant protein can be compensated by its upregulation. Chloroplast biogenesis and photosynthetic activity are impaired in the mutants during the early developmental stage, which is consistent with the requirement of atToc33 in young photosynthetic tissues.
A role for CITED2, a CBP/p300 interacting protein, in colon cancer cell invasion
Authors: Bai Longchuan , Merchant Juanita L.
Published: December 2007

A thorough understanding of histone acetyltransferase CBP/p300‐mediated regulation of gene expression and cell growth is essential to identify mechanisms relevant to the development of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor‐based preventive and therapeutic strategies. We found that knockdown of CBP/p300 interacting coactivator with glutamic acid/aspartic acid‐rich tail 2 (CITED2) increased colon cancer cell invasiveness in vitro. Gene expression profiling revealed that CITED2 knockdown induced matrix metalloproteinase‐13 (MMP‐13) gene expression in colon cancer cells. Butyrate, a naturally occurring HDAC inhibitor, induced CITED2 expression and downregulated MMP‐13 expression in RKO cells. Additionally, ectopic expression of CITED2 arrested RKO cell growth. Thus, CITED2 regulates colon cancer invasion and might be a target for HDAC inhibitor‐based intervention of colon cancer.
Stillbirth rates in Peruvian populations at high altitude
Authors: Gonzales Gustavo F. , Tapia Vilma , Carrillo Carlos E.
Published: December 2007

Objective

To compare the stillbirth rates in 4 cities at different altitudes in Peru.

Methods

The stillbirth rates from a sample of 22,662 births recorded in the Perinatal Information System database were analyzed between 2005 and 2006 for the cities of Lima (150 m), Huancayo (3280 m), Cuzco (3430 m), and Puno (3850 m).

Results

Stillbirths were higher at high altitude (> 3000 m) (OR 4.82; CI, 3.05–7.72) compared with low altitude. The effect of altitude was observed after controlling for socioeconomic (OR 4.29; CI, 2.61–6.93), demographic and biological (OR 4.18; CI, 2.65–6.77), maternal health care (OR 4.72; CI, 2.96–7.61), and fetal factors (OR 3.96; CI, 2.48–6.45). Inhabitants from the southern Andes demonstrated a protective effect on stillbirth rate compared with the central Andes, which may be due to an ancestry effect with longer multigenerational residence in the southern Andes population.

Conclusion

Stillbirth rate is higher at high altitude compared with low altitude.
Obstructive sleep apnea in pregnancy and fetal outcome
Authors: Sahin Figen Kir , Koken Gulengul , Cosar Emine , Saylan Filiz , Fidan Fatma , Yilmazer Mehmet , Unlu Mehmet
Published: December 2007

Objective

To simultaneously investigate the polysomnography (PSG) and nonstress test (NST) records of pregnant women with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to observe NST changes during maternal desaturation and determine maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods

A prospective observational study of pregnant women assessed by questionnaire for symptoms of OSA. Women with self‐reported frequent snoring or apnea were offered PSG and NST.

Result

OSA was diagnosed in 4 (11.4%) of the 35 pregnant women who underwent PSG. Three (75%) had fetal heart decelerations accompanying maternal desaturation. The neonates of women diagnosed with OSA had lower mean Apgar scores and birth weights compared with neonates of women without OSA. Three neonates from the women diagnosed with OSA were admitted to the newborn healthcare unit.

Conclusion

OSA in pregnancy has important maternal and fetal outcomes. Pregnant women should be assessed for symptoms of OSA and suspected cases should be offered PSG.
Intonational diglossia: a case study of Glasgow
Authors: Cruttenden Alan
Published: December 2007

Auditory and acoustic data were produced from recordings of a Glaswegian English speaker in conversational and reading modes. Clearly different intonational systems were used in the two modes. The reading style used an intonation similar to that used in standard British intonation (the intonation of ‘Received Pronunciation’ (RPI)). The conversational style was an example of the type of intonation used in a number of cities in the north of the UK (Urban North British Intonation (UNBI)), characterised by a default intonation involving rising or rising-slumping nuclear pitch patterns. This speaker illustrates a clear-cut case of intonational diglossia with a falling default tune in the one mode and a rising(-falling) default tune in the other.