bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive Identification of the Principal Component of a White Powder as Scopolamine by Quantitative One‐Dimensional and Two‐Dimensional NMR Techniques
Authors: Henderson Terry J. , Cullinan David B. , Lawrence Richard J. , Oyler Jonathan M.
Published: February 2008

An unidentified white powder collected as evidence in an intelligence investigation was characterized exclusively by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis. A small fraction of the powder dissolved in D2O was subjected to a series of one‐ and two‐dimensional techniques which were used to elucidate the molecular structure of the powder’s major component and positively identify it as the scopolamine biotoxin. Quantitative one‐dimensional experiments identified individual proton and carbon atom sites, and conventional 14N spectroscopy detected a single nitrogen atom site. Heteronuclear single quantum coherence data correlated all protons to their directly bonded carbon atom, and together with the quantitative spectra, were used to determine the number of protons directly bonded to each carbon atom. The presence of a methyl, carboxyl, and a benzyl group was also identified from these data. Correlation spectroscopy detected a three proton and a nine proton JH,H network, representing a CH2CH moiety and seven carbon atom ring, respectively. These five elements were assembled into an almost complete molecular structure by using long‐range, J‐coupled, 1H–13C pairs detected by heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (HMBC) spectroscopy and 1H–1H dipolar‐coupled pairs found from nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) data. Additional oxygen atom sites were inferred from 1H–13C correlation intensities in the HMBC spectra along with 1H and 13C chemical shift values, or directly from NOESY correlations. Only a single oxygen atom site could not be inferred from NMR data, but its presence was inferred from comparisons to target analyte structures to complete the structure of the scopolamine molecule. To confirm these results, an ethanol/H2O solution of the powder was analyzed by direct infusion into an ion trap mass spectrometer. A prominent base signal was observed at m/z 304.1 amu, corresponding to the protonated molecular ion of scopolamine. Subsequently, the ion was selected and subjected to collision‐induced dissociation, producing characteristic major MS/MS fragments at m/z 138.1 and 156.1. Comparisons of 1H and 13C chemical shift values and JH,H values measured from our NMR data were found to agree very favorably with previously reported values for scopolamine in D2O.
Identifying the Dead: Methods Utilized by the Pima County (Arizona) Office of the Medical Examiner for Undocumented Border Crossers: 2001–2006*
Authors: Anderson Bruce E.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  The Pima County (Arizona) Office of the Medical Examiner has seen a dramatic rise over the past 6 years in the number of deaths related to the illegal crossing of our international border with Mexico. This rise in deaths is undoubtedly related to an increase in the number of foreign nationals who cross into the various Arizona jurisdictions that utilize the Pima County Medical Examiner to investigate their unnatural deaths. Because of the utterly dangerous nature of trekking across the Sonoran Desert, especially in the summer months, many of these unfortunate migrants succumb to the effects of heat‐related illness and perish along the journey. The combined effects of a dry, hot environment and the remoteness of some of the trekking corridors can quickly render a deceased person unidentifiable by visual means. Thus, our office is faced with not only an increase in the number of deaths requiring medico‐legal investigation but also an increase in the number of decedents needing additional specialized examinations in an effort to effect identification. This paper attempts to outline the problems and the methods utilized by our office over the past 6 years in the identification process of undocumented border crossers. It is hoped that this paper, as well as the others presented at this symposium, will allow for the sharing of information amongst all medical investigators who assist in the identification of these migrants. The identification of these individuals takes on added importance when one considers the possible nationalities, and perhaps motivation for entering into the US, of those that remain unidentified.
Strontium and Geolocation, the Pathway to Identification for Deceased Undocumented Mexican Border‐Crossers: A Preliminary Report*
Authors: Juarez Chelsey A.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Much of the difficulty associated with identifying and repatriating deceased undocumented border‐crossers stems from an inability to narrow down the search area to more probable options. Analysis of the isotopic variation in the tooth enamel of modern Mexican populations is currently underway at the University of California Santa Cruz. Using Thermo Ionization Mass Spectrometry, the pilot research analyzed strontium isotopes located in the donated permanent teeth of Mexican‐born individuals of known origin from four states. The preliminary results reveal the formation of three distinctly significant regions in the data set. Using the technology outlined here, a map documenting the isotopic variation in modern Mexican tooth enamel is being complied to use for cross comparison with deceased border crossers of unknown origin.
Reuniting Families: An Online Database to Aid in the Identification of Undocumented Immigrant Remains*
Authors: Baker Lori E. , Baker Erich J.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  The Reuniting Families project attempts to aid federal, state and local agencies currently working towards the identification of deceased undocumented immigrants. This initiative has created a distributed on‐line database, accessible by public officials and private citizens interested in searching for missing individuals based on both phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. This broad effort includes the exhumation of individuals from geographically disparate pauper graves, the classification of their physical characteristics, and the cataloging of observed metric traits in a local relational database, to include associated articles of possession and related metadata. Concurrent with the documentation of physical forensic evidence is the analysis of mitochondrial DNA sequences. Computational techniques and scoring parameters are applied to automate the process of discovery and identification as well at to preserve information on the missing. The result is a prototype knowledgebase that may serve as a model for future efforts in international forensic science collaborations.
Fatal Footsteps: Murder of Undocumented Border Crossers in Maricopa County, Arizona*
Authors: Fulginiti Laura C.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  In the past 5 years, the mortality rate among undocumented workers in Arizona has increased steadily. In 1998–1999, the number of deaths among border crossers was 28. That number increased dramatically in 1999–2000 to 106 and has exceeded 200 in each of the past 2 years. In the past, many immigrant deaths occurred as a result of dehydration and exposure (1). More recently, a new trend has emerged, that is, death of border crossers at the hands of the persons (“coyotes”) hired to lead them across the border to safety. In some cases, the smugglers attempt to extort additional money from the families by holding the victims hostage once they have crossed the border into the United States. If the families fail to pay, the hostage is killed. Rival gangs are also murdering one another over their human cargo. Nine recent cases illustrate this trend in Maricopa County. In each example, the victims were bound, shot (or in one instance stabbed) and dumped in a remote desert area. All of the decedents were linked to murder for extortion by the ‘‘coyotes’’ or rival gang members.
Enhancement of Microcrystalline Identification of γ‐Hydroxybutyrate*
Authors: Elie Mathieu P. , Baron Mark G. , Birkett Jason W.
Published: February 2008

Abstract: An enhancement of the microcrystalline test for the detection of γ‐hydroxybutyrate (GHB) is described. The original test used a silver/copper reagent which consisted of 0.1 g of silver nitrate and 0.1 g of copper nitrate in 10 mL water. The enhanced test utilizes lanthanum nitrate in place of copper nitrate. A detection limit of 0.5 mg/mL was achieved and the visual discrimination was improved because of larger sized crystals. Transient crystals were observed between 0.1 and 0.4 mg/mL. Silver nitrate alone appeared to be suitable for GHB detection but was not specific as other hydroxyl acids, such as glycolic acid, produced a similar crystal pattern. Tests conducted on chemical precursors of GHB and substances with similar biological activity highlight the specificity of the enhanced test. The reagent is therefore selective and sensitive for GHB in aqueous solutions. However, in beverage testing, crystal formation appeared to be inhibited for some drinks. Citric acid was identified as a possible interference depending on its concentration relative to GHB.
Measuring the Accuracy of Facial Approximations: A Comparative Study of Resemblance Rating and Face Array Methods
Authors: Stephan Carl N. , Cicolini Jody
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  The success of facial approximation is thought to depend, at least in part, upon the “accuracy” of the constructed face. However, methods of accuracy assessment are varied and this range in methods may be responsible for the disparate results reported in the literature. The aim of this study was to determine if the accuracy results of one facial approximation were comparable across two different assessment methods (resemblance ratings and simultaneous face array tests using unfamiliar assessors) and if resemblance ratings co‐varied with recognition responses. True‐positive recognition performance from the facial approximation was poor (21%) while resemblance scores using the same facial approximation were moderately high (3 out of 5 on a five‐point scale). These results are not, therefore, consistent and indicate that either different variables are being evaluated by the methods, or the same variable is being examined but with different weight/calibration. Further resemblance ratings tests of the facial approximation to three foil faces from the face array revealed that resemblance scores were similar irrespective of which face was compared, and did not closely correspond with the degree of recognition performance. This was especially the case for isolated comparisons of single faces to the facial approximation. Collectively, these results indicate that resemblance ratings are: (i) insensitive measures of a facial approximation’s accuracy; and (ii) inconsistent with results of unfamiliar simultaneous face‐array recognition results. These data suggest that familiar and unfamiliar recognition tests should be given increased weight in contrast to current resemblance rating tests.
Inhalant Abuse Detection and Evaluation in Young Tunisians
Authors: Chakroun Radhouane , Faidi Fayçal , Hedhili Abderrazek , Charbaji Kaouther , Nouaigui Habib , Laiba Mohamed Ben
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Occupational exposure biological monitoring techniques were applied for the diagnosis of inhalation abuse and for the evaluation of the levels of exposure to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes, and n‐hexane, in 44 Tunisian adolescents and children suspected for volatile substance addiction. Urinary trans,trans‐muconic acid, hippuric acid (HA), mandelic acid, and methylhippuric acids determinations were performed by high performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode array detector, and urinary o‐cresol (o‐Cr) and 2,5‐hexanedione (HD) were extracted simultaneously and measured using gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector. Given the high linearity ranges, HD and o‐Cr occupational exposure monitoring techniques could be applied without modification. However, urinary sample dilution was necessary before HA analysis. Concentrations were compared with the maxima of normal values (MNVs) in the general population and to the biological exposure indices (BEIs) used in occupational toxicology. Values as high as 6610‐fold the MNV and 68 times the BEI were registered. The subjects showed high exposure to toluene and hexane. Measured metabolites HA and/or o‐Cr and HD enabled the easy detection and evaluation of exposure levels. The problem of inhalant abuse should be given more attention and treated through an effective prevention strategy.
Genetic Data Analysis of Nine STRs in Two Caribbean Colombian Populations: César and Guajira
Authors: Martínez Beatriz , Builes Juan José , Caraballo Luis
Published: February 2008

POPULATION:  We have analyzed the distribution of the allele frequencies and parameters of forensic interest at nine short tandem repeat (STR) loci (CSF1PO, D3S1358, D5S818, D7S820, D13S317, FGA, TH01, TPOX, and vWA) in a sample population of 165 unrelated individuals from César and Guajira, Caribbean populations of Colombia.
Y Chromosome STR Haplotypes and Allele Frequencies in a Southern Indian Male Population
Authors: Frank William E. , Ralph Heather C. , Tahir Mohammad A.
Published: February 2008

Population:  Southern Indian (n = 123).
The Effects of Deprivation on the Time Spent Examining Crime Scenes and the Recovery of DNA and Fingerprints
Authors: Adderley Richard , Bond John W.
Published: February 2008

DNA and fingerprint identifications are now accepted as an integral part of the investigation of a wide range of criminal offences from burglary and auto crime to serious and major crime. Despite this, there is still much variation between U.K. police forces in the recovery of fingerprint and DNA material from crime scenes. Analysis of burglary and auto crime data for Northamptonshire, U.K., during a 3‐year period has enabled an examination of the relationship between the deprivation of the neighborhood in which the crime was committed and the level of service provided by Crime Scene Examiners. The results indicate that the time spent examining a crime scene for forensic evidence is not affected by the deprivation of the neighborhood. Further, there is no statistical significance between deprivation and the recovery of fingerprints from the crime scene. The relationship between deprivation and DNA recovery is, however, statistically significant with DNA being recovered more frequently from less deprived neighborhoods.
Decompression retinopathy and possible risk factors
Authors: Saricaoglu Murat Sinan , Kalayci Defne , Guven Dilek , Karakurt Ahmet , Hasiripi Hikmet
Published: February 2008

Purpose:  To discuss the underlying mechanisms in decompression retinopathy.

Methods:  Report of two cases.

Results:  Retinal hemorrhages secondary to decompression retinopathy occurred following combined trabeculotomy‐trabeculectomy with mitomycine‐C (MMC) in one eye of a case of congenital glaucoma and pars plana vitrectomy‐lensectomy in a case of vitreous condensation secondary to pars planitis. Both cases were operated under general anesthesia. Postoperative hypotony did not take place in either eye. The same surgical procedure was performed on the other eye of the patient with congenital glaucoma 1 week apart. Postoperative decompression retinopathy was not seen in this eye despite hypotony was recorded.

Conclusion:  Valsalva manoeuvre, hypotony and other factors may play a role individually or in combination in the pathogenesis of decompression retinopathy.
Dictyostelium Sun‐1 Connects the Centrosome to Chromatin and Ensures Genome Stability
Authors: Xiong Huajiang , Rivero Francisco , Euteneuer Ursula , Mondal Subhanjan , Mana‐Capelli Sebastian , Larochelle Denis , Vogel Annette , Gassen Berthold , Noegel Angelika A.
Published: February 2008

The centrosome‐nucleus attachment is a prerequisite for faithful chromosome segregation during mitosis. We addressed the function of the nuclear envelope (NE) protein Sun‐1 in centrosome‐nucleus connection and the maintenance of genome stability in Dictyostelium discoideum. We provide evidence that Sun‐1 requires direct chromatin binding for its inner nuclear membrane targeting. Truncation of the cryptic N‐terminal chromatin‐binding domain of Sun‐1 induces dramatic separation of the inner from the outer nuclear membrane and deformations in nuclear morphology, which are also observed using a Sun‐1 RNAi construct. Thus, chromatin binding of Sun‐1 defines the integrity of the nuclear architecture. In addition to its role as a NE scaffold, we find that abrogation of the chromatin binding of Sun‐1 dissociates the centrosome‐nucleus connection, demonstrating that Sun‐1 provides an essential link between the chromatin and the centrosome. Moreover, loss of the centrosome‐nucleus connection causes severe centrosome hyperamplification and defective spindle formation, which enhances aneuploidy and cell death significantly. We highlight an important new aspect for Sun‐1 in coupling the centrosome and nuclear division during mitosis to ensure faithful chromosome segregation.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Frequency of Eight Antiphospholipid Antibodies and Genetic Thrombophilic Factors in Czech Women
Authors: Subrt Ivan , Ulcova‐Gallova Zdenka , Bibkova Katarina , Micanova Zdenka , Hejnalova Marketa , Cerna Monika , Hradecky Libor , Novotny Zdenek
Published: February 2008

Problem

The aim of this study was to investigate frequencies of eight antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) in serum, four genetic thrombophilic factors and their mutual relation in 206 patients with repeated pregnancy loss (RPL).

Method of study

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used for detection of aPLs against ph‐serine, ph‐ethanolamine, ph‐inositol, DL‐glycerol, phosphatidic acid, anti‐annexin V, cardiolipin, and beta2‐GPI. FV 1691G>A (Leiden mutation), FII 20210G>A mutation, MTHFR 677C>T and MTHFR 1298A>C variant genotypes were determined using a melting curve analysis of the PCR amplification product detected by the fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Genotypic distribution and allelic frequencies were calculated. Correlation between aPLs and thrombophilic factors was tested by chi‐square and Fisher exact test.

Results

Our results show significantly increased prevalence of aPLs against ph‐inositol (17–19.6% dependent on number of spontaneous miscarriages) and against ph‐serine (18–25%). aPLs in IgG prevail. In 96% of the studied group, at least one risk factor was found (either aPLs positivity or thrombophilic factor). Both aPLs and thrombophilic factors were present in 43%. In the group of women with three or more RPLs, strong positive correlation of aPLs positivity and thrombophilic risk factors was observed.

Conclusion

Antiphospholipide antibodies and genetic thrombophilic factors are important risk factors in the pathogenesis of RPL. Both autoantibodies against various kinds of phospholipides and genetic thrombophilic factors must be studied together in diagnosis of RPL for appropriate treatment.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: V‐Chain Preference of Gamma/Delta T‐Cell Receptors in Peripheral Blood During Term Labor
Authors: Barakonyi Aliz , Miko Eva , Varga Peter , Szekeres‐Bartho Julia
Published: February 2008

Problem

An altered function of the maternal immune system creates a favorable environment for the developing fetus during pregnancy. At term, new regulatory mechanisms are activated, to initiate labor. Earlier we showed that in peripheral blood of pregnant women gamma/delta T cells of cytotoxic phenotype are replaced by those of a non‐cytotoxic phenotype. Here we studied the Vgamma and Vdelta chain usage of peripheral gamma/delta T cells from women in labor.

Method of study

Vgamma and Vdelta chain expression on peripheral blood lymphocytes obtained at the 3rd trimester of pregnancy and during parturition were examined by immuncytochemistry and flow cytometry.

Results

Increased % of Vgamma9/Vdelta2 and decreased % of Vgamma4/Vdelta1 T cells were found in peripheral blood during labor, together with unaltered percentages of single Vgamma+ or Vdelta+ cells. The initially high Vgamma4/Vdelta1 to Vgamma9/Vdelta2 ratio decreased during labor.

Conclusion

The initiation of labor is characterized by an altered V‐chain usage of gamma/delta T cells.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Occasional Antiphospholipid Antibody Positive Patients with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Also Merit Aspirin Therapy: A Retrospective Cohort‐Control Study
Authors: Sugiura‐Ogasawara Mayumi , Ozaki Yasuhiko , Nakanishi Tamao , Sato Takeshi , Suzumori Nobuhiro , Kumagai Kyoko
Published: February 2008

Problem

It is well known that treatment with aspirin plus heparin is effective for patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) to prevent pregnancy loss. However, it is unclear if occasional antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are a risk factor and whether patients with aPL at one time point but not diagnosed as APS should be treated.

Method of study

We therefore studied whether aspirin alone is effective in patients with occasional aPL who did not meet the criteria for APS. We compared live birth rates between 52 patients with occasional aPL treated with aspirin and 672 unexplained patients with no medication. Patients in both group had a history of two or three pregnancy losses.

Results

In all, 44 of 52 patients (84.6%) with occasional aPL could experience live birth when treated with aspirin alone. 509 of 672 patients (75.7%) with unexplained pregnancy losses could have babies. When miscarriage cases caused by an abnormal embryonic karyotype were excluded, the success rates were 95.7% (44/46) and 81.2% (509/621), respectively. The live birth rate in patients with occasional aPL treated with aspirin was significantly higher than that in unexplained patients with no medication (P = 0.008).

Conclusion

We therefore conclude that aspirin is also useful in patients with occasional aPL but not APS.
Expression of two drug‐metabolizing cytochrome P450‐enzymes in human salivary glands
Authors: Kragelund C , Hansen C , Torpet LA , Nauntofte B , Brøsen K , Pedersen AML , Buchwald C , Therkildsen MH , Reibel J
Published: February 2008

Objective:  The oral cavity is constantly lubricated by saliva and even small amounts of xenobiotics and / or their metabolites in the saliva may affect the oral mucosa. Our aim was therefore to clarify if xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 are expressed in salivary glands.

Methods:  Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded specimens from parotid (10), submandibular (7) and labial (10) salivary glands were examined immunohistochemically and by in situ hybridization for expression of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 protein and mRNA.

Results:  CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 protein and mRNA were detected in ductal and seromucous / serous acinar cells in all gland types although to a varying degree and intensity. Mucous acinar cells were positive to a lesser extent.

Conclusion:  The results indicate a xenobiotic metabolizing capability of salivary glands. This may have implications for development of oral mucosal disease as a result of mucosal exposure to metabolites originating from internal sources (blood) as well as from saliva.
Late onset of a facial variant of steatocystoma multiplex – Calretinin as a specific marker of the follicular companion cell layer
Authors: Riedel Christian , Brinkmeier Thomas , Kutzner Heinz , Plewig Gerd , Frosch Peter J.
Published: February 2008

Steatocystoma multiplex is a rare, almost exclusively autosomal dominant disease of the sebaceous glands. The sites of predilection are the sternal region, upper back, axillae and proximal parts of the extremities. A 78‐year‐old woman developed multiple yellowish nodules only on the face over a few months. Histology revealed large cysts with a thin wall and connection to sebaceous glands. Immunohistochemical analysis showed the inner epithelial layer of the cysts was positive with calre‐tinin. With curettage and CO2 laser therapy, a good cosmetic result was achieved. This is the first case report in the German literature of a rare sporadic form of steatocystoma multiplex with late onset and exclusive localization in the face.
Congenital syphilis re‐emerging
Authors: Simms Ian , Broutet Nathalie
Published: February 2008

Worldwide, of the 12 million people infected with syphilis every year, two million are pregnant women. An estimated 50 % of these pregnancies will end in fetal or perinatal death, low birth weight babies or babies born with congenital syphilis. The World Health Organization is developing control strategies for the developing world. Cases of congenital syphilis are costly to health care systems but can be prevented through antenatal screening and treatment. The evolving European syphilis epidemic has resulted in an increased incidence of infection in reproductive age women and the emergence of cases of congenital syphilis. This reflects a failure of prenatal care delivery systems as well as syphilis control programs.
Successful treatment of primary chronic osteomyelitis in SAPHO syndrome with bisphosphonates
Authors: Just Alexander , Adams Sabine , Brinkmeier Thomas , Barsegian Vahé , Lorenzen Johannes , Schilling Fritz , Frosch Peter
Published: February 2008

The treatment of the painful osteomyelitis in patients with SAPHO syndrome (Synovitis, Acne, Pustulosis, Hyperostosis, Osteitis) is often a problem. A 53‐year‐old woman had experienced palmo‐plantar pustular skin lesions for four years, and in the past two years complained about progressive breath‐and movement‐dependent pain of the sternum. On examination she had extensive palmoplantar pustules and a painful swelling in the area of the right sternoclavicular joint. The three‐phase bone scintigraphy showed a strong focal enrichment in the right sternoclavicular joint and at the transition from the manubrium to the corpus sterni suggesting active osteo‐chondritis. Initially prednisolone and ibuprofen were administered, but only the skin changes regressed. The strong sternal pain decreased only after infusion of 4 mg zoledronic acid over three days. In a follow‐up examination after five months the patient was still free of pain. The bisphosphonates inhibit osteoclastic activity and lead to long‐lasting improvement of osteo‐articular complaints in the SAPHO syndrome.
Factory packed and expired – about emergency insect sting kits
Authors: Fischer Jörg , Knaudt Björn , Caroli Ulrich M. , Biedermann Tilo
Published: February 2008

Background: Patients allergic to insect venom are instructed to always carry emergency medication–an emergency kit. According to the current guidelines, these emergency kits should contain a H1‐receptor‐blocking antihistamine and corticosteroid for oral use, as well as an epinephrine inhaler and in particular situations an epinephrine auto‐injector.

Patients and Methods: For quality management reasons patients with wasp venom allergy who presented for sting challenge provocation test were told to demonstrate their emergency kits. Concomitantly, constituents of the patient's emergency kits were checked for date of expiry of the medication and the patients were interviewed on storage and use of the emergency kits.

Results: In total 42 patients with a median duration time of systemic immunotherapy of 2.5 year were evaluated. Medication post date of expiration was found in 54% of the kits (n = 39). Only 31% of the patients could demonstrate how to use the kits correctly. Problems were especially evident concerning for using the application of the inhaler and auto‐injector. 50% of the patients demonstrated using epinephrine auto‐injectors in such way that an accidental injection into the fingers would have resulted.

Conclusion: To assure safe and effective handling of all components of the emergency kit, continuous training and repeated supervised practice is necessary.
Lepidopterism — oak processionary caterpillar dermatitis: Appearance after indirect out‐of‐season contact
Authors: Maronna Andreas , Stache Heiko , Sticherling Michael
Published: February 2008

Lepidopterism by contact with oak processionary caterpillars is becoming more frequent in Germany and is often described in the lay press. The hairs of the adolescent caterpillars cause localized and generalized mechanic‐irritative, toxic and allergic skin reactions. We describe the oak processionary caterpillar dermatitis in a married couple caused by indirect contact via their dog's saliva, after the dog had oral contact with an abandoned caterpillar nest in winter and became ill. Accordingly, the recommendation for prophylaxis by avoiding contact with oak processionary caterpillars has to be extended beyond the direct contact with caterpillars in summer.
Structural heterogeneity and productivity of a tall fescue pasture grazed rotationally by cattle at four stocking densities
Authors: Cid Maria Silvia , Ferri Carlos M. , Brizuela Miguel A. , Sala Osvaldo
Published: February 2008

The spatial heterogeneity in the structure and the productivity of the vegetation was examined in a tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) pasture rotationally grazed at four stocking densities in the Pampean region of Argentina. The examined pasture was grazed at the stocking densities of 3.6, 4.6, 5.6 and 6.6 animals ha−1 with a two‐paddock 14‐day rotational grazing system. Spatial distribution of plant height was examined as well as the percentages of short patch area (heavily utilized patches) or tall patch area (areas ungrazed or lightly defoliated). In addition, biomass, growth rate and relative growth rate were assessed for both short and tall patches. Grazing generated patchiness in vegetation structure and growth at all stocking densities. Increased stocking density caused an increase in the percentage of the short patch area in the paddocks. Short patches had relatively less live biomass than tall ones, but their relative growth rate was 31% higher than that of tall patches (0.021 ± 0.007 vs 0.016 ± 0.005 g DM g DM−1 day−1). The increase in stocking density enlarged the proportion of short patch areas with higher relative growth rate. The relative growth rate (average between short and tall patches) of the two highest stocking densities was 61.7% higher than that of the low stocking density treatments (0.023 ± 0.006 vs 0.014 ± 0.004 g DM g DM−1 day−1). Although the growth rate of the short patches did not exceed the value of the tall patches, the high value of relative growth rate appeared to indicate a higher photosynthetic capacity of the short patches. Moreover, live biomass did not decrease during the experimental period even in the short patch areas showing that, in the particular conditions of our study, overgrazing did not occur at the range of the stocking density examined.
THE ORIGIN OF THE PERMO‐TRIASSIC GAS ACCUMULATIONS IN THE IRANIAN ZAGROS FOLDBELT AND CONTIGUOUS OFFSHORE AREAS: A REVIEW OF THE PALAEOZOIC PETROLEUM SYSTEM
Authors: Bordenave M. L.
Published: February 2008

More than 1500 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of gas reserves have been discovered in Permo‐Triassic carbonates sealed by thick Triassic anhydrites in the Zagros Foldbelt (SW Iran), the southern part of the Gulf (Iran, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi) and Saudi Arabia. This paper discusses the origins of this gas in terms of source rock distribution and thermal maturation through time (as indicated by modelling), regional variations in thermal maturation (as indicated by cumulative isopachs), and long‐range migration and accumulation of hydrocarbon prior to the Zagros orogeny. The sequence of events leading to the present‐day distribution of gas accumulations is reconstructed in detail.

The only important source rocks so far identified in the Late Proterozoic to Late Triassic succession are organic‐rich, radioactive shales which are dated as Llandoverian (early Silurian). Oil generation began in the Middle Jurassic in areas of greatest subsidence, while the gas window was reached locally as early as the Middle Cretaceous. Huge volumes of oil, then of gas, accumulated in a few major regional highs and salt‐related structures prior to the Zagros orogeny. Part of the gas was lost during Zagros folding as some of the anticlines were breached, and another portion, possibly associated with light oil, remigrated into unbreached Zagros anticlines.

Among critical parameters essential to the appraisal of the numerous Permo‐Triassic prospects present in Lurestan, Fars and in the Iranian Offshore, three are discussed in this paper, namely (i) the location of prospects in comparison to pre‐Zagros regional highs and to reconstructed pre‐Zagros gas accumulations; (ii) the characteristics of potential reservoir intervals in the Dalan/Kangan Formation; and (iii) the extent of the Dashtak evaporitic seal. The distribution of surface oil, bitumen and gas seepages together with indirect hydrocarbon indications provides an additional exploration tool.
GEOCHEMICAL AND GEOPHYSICAL ANOMALIES AT THE ZDANICE OIL‐ AND GASFIELD, SE CZECH REPUBLIC
Authors: Matolin M. , Abraham M. , Hanak J. , Kasparec I. , Stranik Z.
Published: February 2008

Oil at the Zdanice field in the SE Czech Republic is reservoired at a depth of 900 m in weathered Precambrian granitoids and Lower Miocene sandstones and conglomerates. Tertiary claystones, siltstones and sandstones form the top seal. Surface gamma‐ray spectrometry carried out along two profiles across the field (6,880 m and 8,335 m in length, respectively) found perceptible decreases of K, U, and Th concentrations relative to background values. This can be explained in terms of enhanced leaching of these radionuclides by groundwater acids derived from hydrocarbons. Observed increases in radon and thoron in soil gas above the oil‐producing zone at Zdanice may be caused by enhanced gas emanation from U‐ and Th‐bearing minerals decomposed by groundwater acids. Laboratory analyses of 444 samples collected from 18 shallow boreholes (20 m deep) pointed to a trend of decreasing K, U and Th concentrations above the oil‐producing zone at Zdanice. Decreases in rock porosity and organic carbon content were also noted together with an increase in mineralogical density, magnetic susceptibility and sulphur content. Petrophysical analyses of 330 samples from deep boreholes showed lower values of K and U in samples from oil‐producing wells. These observations of minor petrophysical alterations in rocks overlying the Zdanice oilfield may be characteristic and may be applicable to hydrocarbon exploration operations elsewhere.
Mouse models of human arrhythmia syndromes
Authors: Killeen M. J. , Thomas G. , Sabir I. N. , Grace A. A. , Huang C. L.‐H.
Published: February 2008

Sudden cardiac death stemming from ventricular arrhythmogenesis is one of the major causes of mortality in the developed world. Congenital and acquired forms of long QT syndrome (LQTS) are in turn associated with life threatening arrhythmias. Over the past decade our understanding of arrhythmogenic mechanisms in the setting of these diseases has increased greatly due to the creation of a number of animal models. Of these, the genetically amenable mouse has proved to be a particularly powerful tool. This review summarizes the congenital and acquired LQTS and describes the various mouse models that have been created to further probe arrhythmogenic mechanisms.
A revisionist model of hospital licensure
Authors: Blum John
Published: February 2008

This article explores the use of a new governance approach in the context of American acute care hospital regulation, specifically focusing on the core regulatory process of licensure. This article calls for the alteration of current command and control regulations through the adoption of a four‐part revisionist licensing model. The model seeks to reinvigorate the licensing process by making it not only more relevant to efficient operations, but also adaptable to current industry challenges. Based generally on alternative regulatory models such as responsive regulation, meta‐regulation, and management‐based regulation, the revisionist licensing proposal is driven by the broad goals of bureaucratic reduction, participatory regulation, and more focused obligations. Elements of the model include refocusing on baseline requirements, problem identification and correction, negotiated obligations, and alteration of the structure of oversight. Specific application examples are provided in the areas of charity care and health planning.
The orderly use of experience: Pragmatism and the development of hospital industry self‐regulation
Authors: Rees Joseph V.
Published: February 2008

This article focuses on the origins and the development of American hospital industry self‐regulation. Drawing on extensive archival research, this article suggests that the American College of Surgeon’s Hospital Standardization Program was closely linked to the American pragmatist tradition. So understood, the Program represents a major milestone in the history of American regulation, perhaps the first self‐regulatory system steeped in pragmatist principles of social ordering, a Progressive‐era model of governance that long ago foreshadowed some of today’s most significant regulatory innovations.
Salmonella spp. in Bavarian Liquid Pig Manure: Occurrence and Relevance for the Distribution of Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Hölzel C. , Bauer J.
Published: February 2008

In a representative study, 380 manure samples of pig farms distributed all over Bavaria (Germany) were screened for the presence of Salmonella spp. at the time of manure application to soil using methods adapted to DIN EN ISO 6579. The isolates were tested according to DIN 58940 for their susceptibility towards 26 antimicrobial substances – such substances partly administered in animals, but mainly used in human therapy. Six out of 380 manure samples and, in addition, the only separated liquid manure sample examined, contained Salmonella isolates. Serotypes represented S. Typhimurium (n = 5), S. Derby (n = 1) and S. Infantis/S. Serogroup C1‐(6,7:r:‐)‐form (each n = 1). Within the serovar S. Typhimurium, the most common phage type was DT104 (n = 3). All Salmonella isolates originated from ‘big’ farms (>30/45 sows on combined/breeding farms or >220 fattening pigs). Four out of six manure samples contained resistant isolates; all resistant Salmonellae were multi‐resistant. Two out of three DT104‐isolates showed the typical penta‐resistance pattern often found in S. Typhimurium DT104, which was, furthermore, supplemented by other resistances. One Escherichia coli isolated together with a phage type DT104 S. Typhimurium also expressed the same penta‐resistance pattern.
American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Horses from Endemic Areas in the North‐Central Mesoregion of Paraná State, Brazil
Authors: Filho D. Vedovello , Jorge F. A. , Lonardoni M. V. C. , Teodoro U. , Silveira T. G. V.
Published: February 2008

American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) is an endemic disease in the north‐west of Paraná state, Brazil, where it occurs in humans and dogs. Few studies have been undertaken on the occurrence of the disease in other domestic animals and horses. In this study we investigated the infection of horses by Leishmania in ACL‐endemic rural areas. Direct agglutination test (DAT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were employed. Fifty‐five horses from rural areas in the municipalities of Doutor Camargo, Ourizona, São Jorge do Ivaí, Ivatuba and Santa Fé (Água do Ó) were analysed. DAT‐detected antibody titres varied from 10 to 640, and 42 (76.3%) animals presented titres ≥20. PCR analyses led to the detection of Leishmania (Viannia) DNA in the blood samples of three (7.1%) of 42 animals. The presence of anti‐L. (V.) braziliensis antibodies and Leishmania (Viannia) DNA in horses from endemic areas suggests their participation in the ACL transmission cycle.
Nutrient addition extends flowering display, which gets tracked by seed predators, but not by their parasitoids
Authors: Albrectsen Benedicte Riber , Ericson Lars , Lundberg Per
Published: February 2008

Although phenological matching between two and three trophic interactions has received some attention, it has largely been disregarded in explaining the lack of strong cascade dynamics in terrestrial systems. We studied the response of the specialist seed predator,Paroxyna plantaginis(Tephritidae) and associated generalist parasitoids (Chalcidoidea) to controlled fertilisation of individuals of naturally growingTripolium vulgare(Asteraceae) on four island populations (Skeppsvik Archipelago, Sweden). We consistently found evidence of nutrient limitation: fertilised plants increased their biomass, produced more capitula (the oviposition units for tephritid flies), were more at risk of attack by the tephritids, and puparia were heavier in fertilised plants. During some parts of the season tephritids became more heavily parasitized, supporting the presence of cascade dynamics, however net parasitism over season decreased in response to nutrient addition. We found no evidence that capitulum size complicated parasitoid access to the tephritids, however the extended bud production prolonged the flowering season. Thus, tephritids utilized the surplus production of capitula throughout the entire season, while parasitoids did not expand their oviposition time window accordingly. Implications for top down regulation and cascade dynamics in the system are discussed.
Demonstration of a 4-Cells SOFC Stack Under Different Experimental Conditions
Authors: Bertoldi M. , Zandonella T. , Haanappel V. A. C. , Mertens J. , Remmel J. , de Haart L. G. J.
Published: February 2008

Forschungszentrum Juelich (FZJ) has developed over the past years a well-known SOFC stack technology for a planar cell configuration. 1.5mm thick anode supported large-area cells based on a NiO∕YSZ (anode) and a YSZ (electrolyte) system are integrated in a stack using bipolar plates made of a special ferritic stainless steel acting as current collector and gas distributor. Materials, processes, and surface treatments have been selected and optimized to reduce mismatch between different components and to achieve high power densities. The recent SOFC stacks of F-design, fuelled with humidified hydrogen and air has demonstrated a power density as high as 0.6W∕cm2 at 800°C and a stable behavior up to 8000h of operation. These tests are usually performed in standard conditions, using a low value of fuel utilization and a precise control of gas composition, fuel, and airflow rates and temperature distribution. It seems quite difficult to maintain the same strict control of these parameters when the stack operates in an actual device. Therefore, it is of interest to investigate the effect of different experimental conditions on the electrochemical performance that can simulate stack behavior as integrated in a real system. For example, an actual fuel cell system is designed to operate with fuel utilization in the range between 70% and 85% due to efficiency considerations. In addition, variations of the electric load and of the corresponding flow rates must be expected that give rise to temperature changes and gradients within the stack. Part of these effects might be detrimental for the stack service life, and can be limited by a well-designed balance of plant of the system. In this contribution, results of a series of tests on a 4-cells SOFC stack of F design, manufactured by FZJ and conducted in a new SOFC test bench by Eurocoating, are presented. This facility allows the investigation of the performance of stacks up to 1kW as a function of several experimental parameters, including the amplitude of compressive loading, inlet gas temperature and pressure, flow rate, and fuel utilization.
Protective Coatings of Metallic Interconnects for IT-SOFC Application
Authors: Bertoldi M. , Zandonella T. , Montinaro D. , Sglavo V. M. , Fossati Alessio , Lavacchi A. , Giolli C. , Bardi U.
Published: February 2008

The development of high-performing planar solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stacks operating at intermediate temperature (700–850°C) is based on thin-electrolyte anode supported cells (ASCs) and interconnects made by ferritic stainless steels. These metallic materials match very well the thermal expansion behavior of the ASCs and can be manufactured and formed using cheaper and easier processes than ceramics or chromium alloys. Nevertheless, some problems remain to be solved with these components as the performance degradation due to the oxide scale growth at the cathodic contact surface and the evaporation of volatile Cr-containing species, which poisons the cathodic materials. Both effects strongly limit the stack performance compared to single cells and increase the degradation rate with time. Providing the steel composition is carefully controlled, the above problems can be limited and some special ferritic stainless steels have been developed in the past years for SOFC application. Unfortunately, no commercial alloy is still able to satisfy the limit in degradation rate required for stationary applications (SECA target is <0.25% upon 1000h on a minimum service life of 40,000h). To achieve these goals a further improvement of composition should be required but this cannot be easily obtained in a cost-effective large-scale metallurgical production. An alternative and probably simpler way is to coat the surface of the steel with a protective layer with the twofold aim to limit Cr evaporation and to develop a conductive scale. In the present work, the effect of different oxide coatings on the chromium evaporation rate and on the contact resistance of ferritic stainless steel has been investigated. To obtain a conductive layer, spinel compositions containing Co, Mn, and Cu have been considered. Steels surfaces have been spray-coated using alcoholic suspensions, and the microstructural evolution of the interface between the metallic substrate and oxide layers has been investigated by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy line-scan analysis for exposure at high temperature. The variation with time of the area-specific resistance at 800°C has been recorded up to 1000h. The evaporation rate of Cr-containing species has been also evaluated by a qualitative method.
Load Response Characteristics of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell for Individual Cold-Region Houses
Authors: Obara Shin’ya
Published: February 2008

The power load pattern of an individual house is a set of loads that fluctuate rapidly. If it is controlled to follow a system at rapid load fluctuation, depending on the response characteristics of the system, the equipment may have poor power quality (voltage and frequency). When introducing a fuel cell system into a house, it is necessary to consider two transient response characteristics: electric power and heat power. Then, the details of the transient response characteristics of the fuel cell system composed from a reformer, a fuel cell, an inverter, a system interconnection device, etc., are investigated by experiment and numerical analysis. As a result, the control variables of the controllers and the relation to the response characteristics of the fuel cell system were clarified. Furthermore, the response characteristics of the system when accompanied by a load fluctuation of power were also clarified. The response characteristics when introducing the energy demand pattern of an individual cold-region house into a fuel cell system geothermal heat pump were analyzed. From this analysis result, the details of operation, including each auxiliary machine of the fuel cell system, were clarified.