bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetic simulations for cyclization of α,ω‐telechelic polymers
Authors: Lonsdale Daria E. , Monteiro Michael J.
Published: September 2010

In this work, we conducted kinetic simulations to examine the effects of various experimental conditions on cyclization during the feed of α,ω‐telechelic polymers into a reaction mixture. The simulations showed that the interplay between the feed rate and rate coefficients for cyclization and multiblock formation were the dominant and controlling parameters. The simulations were in good agreement with previously published results on cyclization of α,ω‐telechelic polystyrene with different molecular weights by the Cu‐catalyzed azide/alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction. They also showed that high dilution was not a necessary condition for cyclization and that high percentages of monocyclic could be rapidly produced in solutions that are more concentrated. Previously reported work demonstrated that cyclic polystyrene could be prepared in less than 9 min at 25 °C using the CuAAC “click” reaction. These simulations allow for optimization and better experimental design, leading to the possibility of large scale production of cyclic polymers. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
A new room‐temperature liquid, high‐performance tricyanate ester
Authors: Cambrea Lee R. , Davis Matthew C. , Groshens Thomas J. , Guenthner Andrew J. , Lamison Kevin R. , Mabry Joseph M.
Published: September 2010

A new tricyanate ester monomer of a tris(4‐hydroxyphenyl)benzene derivative was synthesized in 6‐steps with a 63% overall yield. The geminal substitution of phenyl rings on ethane, in addition to the creation of a racemic/diastereomeric mixture, resulted in a liquid monomer whereas compounds with similar structure and symmetry have melting points typically over 100 °C. Key properties of the polycyanurate, such as the glass transition temperature and moisture resistance, were positively influenced by the higher crosslink density provided by the monomer. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Synthesis, self‐assembly, drug‐release behavior, and cytotoxicity of triblock and pentablock copolymers composed of poly(ε‐caprolactone), poly(L‐lactide), and poly(ethylene glycol)
Authors: Sun Lin , Shen Lin‐Jing , Zhu Ming‐Qiang , Dong Chang‐Ming , Wei Yen
Published: September 2010

Biocompatible and biodegradable ABC and ABCBA triblock and pentablock copolymers composed of poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL), poly(L‐lactide) (PLA), and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEO) with controlled molecular weights and low polydispersities were synthesized by a click conjugation between alkyne‐terminated PCL‐b‐PLA and azide‐terminated PEO. Their molecular structures, physicochemical and self‐assembly properties were thoroughly characterized by means of FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. These copolymers formed microphase‐separated crystalline materials in solid state, where the crystallization of PCL block was greatly restricted by both PEO and PLA blocks. These copolymers self‐assembled into starlike and flowerlike micelles with a spherical morphology, and the micelles were stable over 27 days in aqueous solution at 37 °C. The doxorubicin (DOX) drug‐loaded nanoparticles showed a bigger size with a similar spherical morphology compared to blank nanoparticles, demonstrating a biphasic drug‐release profile in buffer solution and at 37 °C. Moreover, the DOX‐loaded nanoparticles fabricated from the pentablock copolymer sustained a longer drug‐release period (25 days) at pH 7.4 than those of the triblock copolymer. The blank nanoparticles showed good cell viability, whereas the DOX‐loaded nanoparticles killed fewer cells than free DOX, suggesting a controlled drug‐release effect. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Star polymers by cross‐linking of linear poly(benzyl‐L‐glutamate) macromonomers via free‐radical and RAFT polymerization. A simple route toward peptide‐stabilized nanoparticles
Authors: Audouin Fabrice , Knoop Ruther J. I. , Huang Jin , Heise Andreas
Published: September 2010

Poly(benzyl‐L‐glutamate) (PBLG) macromonomers were synthesized by N‐carboxyanhydride (NCA) polymerization initiated with 4‐vinyl benzylamine. MALDI‐ToF analysis confirmed the presence of styrenic end‐groups in the PBLG. Free‐radical and RAFT polymerization of the macromonomer in the presence of divinyl benzene produced star polymers of various molecular weights, polydispersity, and yield depending on the reaction conditions applied. The highest molecular weight (Mw) of 10,170,000 g/mol was obtained in a free‐radical multibatch approach. It was shown that the PBLG star polymers can be deprotected to obtain poly(glutamic acid) star polymers, which form water soluble pH responsive nanoparticles. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Mullins effect recovery of a nanoparticle‐filled polymer
Authors: Yan Lei , Dillard David A. , West Robert L. , Lower Loren D. , Gordon Glenn V.
Published: September 2010

Particle‐filled elastomers often exhibit a reduction in peak stress after the initial extension under cyclic straining, a phenomenon known as the Mullins effect. In reported literature, long rest periods and elevated temperatures are often necessary conditions to even partially restore stiffness. The stress softening of the polymer nanoparticle composite discussed in this article appeared to be completely reversible in a comparatively short time span (less than 17 h) at room temperature. Although this material acted elastomeric at slow strain rates, significant stiffening, and a pronounced yielding behavior was observed during the first strain cycle at higher strain rates. Subsequent cycling of the material revealed much softer behavior and an absence of the yielding phenomenon, although relatively short rest periods allowed the material to regain its original behavior. The Mullins effect recovery phenomenon was investigated by introducing rest periods of various durations following loading and unloading cycles. Both single and multiple loadings were used in the tests conducted to evaluate recovery. A mechanism of stress recovery was proposed based on the reduction of entanglements and weakening particle‐matrix interactions. New entanglements and particle‐chain interactions were considered major contributors to the recovery of the stiffness. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2010
Rheological behavior and microstructure of 2,2′‐dioxy‐ 1,1′‐binaphthylphosphazene R/S random copolymer
Authors: Canales J. , Muñoz M. E. , Santamaria A. , García‐alvarez J. L. , Carriedo G. A.
Published: September 2010

Solutions of a binaphthoxy phosphazene copolymer (containing chiral 2,2′‐dioxy‐1,1′‐binaphthyl units with 50% R and S configurations distributed along the chains) in N‐methyl pyrrolidone were studied by means of continuous flow experiments and small amplitude oscillatory flow tests. A sudden viscosity decrease was observed in the polymer concentration range (39–40 wt %), evidencing a liquid‐crystalline polymer behavior. This has been confirmed by other rheological methods which have demonstrated that, for a sufficiently high concentration, the solutions of the binaphthoxy phosphazene copolymer give rise to a lyotropic system with formation of rigid rods (axial ratio of 10) stacked parallel to each other. The lyotropic properties of our binaphthoxy phosphazene copolymer are compatible with a regular helical structure, similar to that found for a homoleptic binaphthoxy phosphazene, which contains only S configuration. This suggests that the chains of 50% R/S binaphthoxy phosphazene copolymer are, in average, close to the strictly alternating R‐S copolymeric structure of the syndiotactic isomer. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2010
XNBR/LDH nanocomposites: Effect of vulcanization and organic modifier on nanofiller dispersion and strain‐induced crystallization
Authors: Costa Francis R. , Pradhan Sudip , Wagenknecht Udo , Bhowmick Anil K. , Heinrich Gert
Published: September 2010

In elastomer/organo clay nanocomposites, the morphological characteristics, and hence the mechanical properties, of the vulcanizates are strongly influenced by the organic modifier and the vulcanization process. When the elastomer itself undergoes strain‐induced crystallization, both the organic modifier and the dispersed filler particles could significantly influence the crystallization process. These phenomena are very common in case of natural rubber‐based vulcanizates. In this study, the similar effects have been demonstrated with carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR) and organically modified layered double hydroxide (O‐LDH)‐based nanocomposites. The effect of size of the organic modifier was obviously visible on the interlayer distance of O‐LDH and also on the morphological reorganization of the dispersed O‐LDH particles during vulcanization process. The strain‐induced crystallization of the XNBR was found to be strongly dependent on the morphological change that occurs during vulcanization process. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2010
Is static hyperinflation a limiting factor during exercise in adolescents with cystic fibrosis?
Authors: Werkman M.S. , Hulzebos H.J. , Arets H.G.M. , van der Net J. , Helders P.J.M. , Takken T.
Published: September 2010

Increased work of breathing is considered to be a limiting factor in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) performing aerobic exercise. We hypothesized that adolescents with CF and with static hyperinflation are more prone to a ventilatorily limited exercise capacity than non‐static hyperinflated adolescents with CF.

Exercise data of 119 adolescents with CF [range 12–18 years], stratified for static hyperinflation, defined as ratio of residual volume to total lung capacity (RV/TLC) > 30%, were obtained during a progressive bicycle ergometer test with gas analysis and analyzed for ventilatory limitation.

Static hyperinflation showed a significant, though weak association (Φ 0.38; P < 0.001) with a ventilatorily limited exercise capacity (breathing reserve index at maximal effort >0.70; FEV1 < 80% predicted and reduced exercise capacity, defined as VO2peak < 85% predicted). Analysis of association for increasing degrees of hyperinflation showed an increase to Φ 0.49 (P < 0.001) for RV/TLC > 50%. In adolescents with static hyperinflation, peak work rate (Wpeak; 3.1 ± 0.7 W/kg (75.1 ± 17.3% of predicted), peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak/kg (ml/min/kg); 39.2 ± 9.2 ml/min/kg (91.0 ± 20.3% of predicted), peak heart rate (HRpeak; 176 ± 19 beats/min) were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased when compared with non‐static hyperinflated adolescents (Wpeak 3.5 ± 0.5 W/kg (81.4 ± 10.0% of predicted)); VO2peak/kg (ml/min/kg); 43.1 ± 7.5 ml/min/kg (98.0 ± 15.1% of predicted); and HRpeak 185 ± 14 beats/min). Additionally, no difference was found in the degree of association of FEV1 (%) and RV/TLC (%) with VO2peak/kgpred and Wpeak/kgPred, but we found the RV/TLC (%) to be a slightly stronger predictor of VO2peak/kgpred and Wpeak/kgPred than FEV1 (%).

These results indicate that the presence of static hyperinflation in adolescents with CF by itself does not strongly influence ventilatory constraints during exercise and that static hyperinflation is only a slightly stronger predictor of Wpeak/kgPred and VO2peak/kgPred than airflow obstruction (FEV1 (%)). Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:119–124. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Parental perspectives on influenza vaccination in children with asthma
Authors: Soyer Ozge U. , Hudaverdiyev Samir , Civelek Ersoy , Isik Emregul , Karabulut Erdem , Kocabas Can , Sekerel Bulent Enis
Published: September 2010

Background

Influenza is an important cause of epidemic and pandemic disease leading to mortality and morbidity in children. Despite great efforts to increase influenza vaccination, many children with chronic medical conditions do not receive influenza vaccine. Our aim was to identify the demographic factors and asthma‐associated characteristics related to vaccination, caregivers' attitudes and knowledge about influenza disease during the 2007–2008 influenza season.

Methods

Caregivers of children with asthma were surveyed via a self‐administered questionnaire to document their knowledge about influenza disease and vaccine and factors influencing vaccination.

Results

We enrolled 311 children with asthma. The rate of lifetime influenza vaccination was 69.5%, whereas 51.8% of the patients had been vaccinated in the current season. There were no significant differences in demographic factors and asthma control parameters between the groups who received or did not receive influenza vaccine. Most of the parents whose children were vaccinated believed that influenza vaccination would decrease the prevalence and severity of asthma attacks (P < 0.05). The most important reason cited by parents for deciding on the influenza vaccine for their child was physician recommendation (80.1%). The major reasons for declining the vaccination were unawareness that the influenza vaccine was a requirement for their child (29.3%) and illness at the time of vaccination (20%).

Conclusion

Physician recommendation is important in the influenza vaccination decision. Demographic factors and asthma control parameters had no influence on immunization uptake but parental beliefs and attitudes could be determinant. Greater effort is needed to increase influenza vaccination rates, in children with asthma. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:139–144. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and proteasome inhibition of N‐allyl vinyl ester‐based peptides
Authors: Baldisserotto Anna , Franceschini Christian , Scalambra Franco , Trapella Claudio , Marastoni Mauro , Sforza Fabio , Gavioli Riccardo , Tomatis Roberto
Published: September 2010

Inhibition of the proteasome, the multicatalytic protease complex responsible for the turnover of many cellular proteins, represents an attractive target in the development of new drug therapies, proteasome inhibitors being potentially useful tools for the treatment of pathologies such as cancer, as well as inflammatory, immune and neurodegenerative diseases. Based on our previous development of a new class of inhibitors bearing a C‐terminal VE cluster able to interact with catalytic threonine, we report herein the synthesis and activity of new VE‐based peptide analogs bearing an additional allyl pharmacophore unit at the C‐ or N‐terminal position of the pseudotripeptide sequence. In the new series, the structural modification carried out to the prototype determine a decrease of proteasome inhibition. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactions of amyloid Aβ(1–42) peptide with self‐assembled peptide nanospheres
Authors: Smoak Evan M. , Dabakis Melanie P. , Henricus Marsiyana M. , Tamayev Robert , Banerjee Ipsita A.
Published: September 2010

In this work we have probed the interactions of the amyloid Aβ(1–42) peptide with self‐assembled nanospheres. The nanospheres were formed by self‐assembly of a newly developed bolaamphiphile bis(N‐alpha‐amido‐methionine)‐1,8 octane dicarboxylate under aqueous conditions. It was found that the interactions of the Aβ(1–42) peptide with the nanospheres were concentration as well as pH dependent and the peptide largely adopts a random coil structure upon interacting with the nanospheres. Further, upon incorporation with the nanospheres, we observed a relative diminution in the aggregation of Aβ(1–42) at low concentrations of Aβ(1–42). The interactions between the nanospheres and the Aβ(1–42) peptide were investigated by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, circular dichroism, FTIR and fluorescence spectroscopy, and the degree of fibrillation in the presence and absence of nanospheres was monitored by the Thioflavine T assay. We believe that the outcome from this work will help further elucidate the binding properties of Aβ peptide as well as designing nanostructures as templates for further investigating the nucleation and fibrillation process of Aβ‐like peptides. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of peptides and proteins in their binding to GroEL
Authors: Li Yali , Zheng Zhida , Ramsey Andrew , Chen Lingling
Published: September 2010

The GroEL–GroES is an essential molecular chaperon system that assists protein folding in cell. Binding of various substrate proteins to GroEL is one of the key aspects in GroEL‐assisted protein folding. Small peptides may mimic segments of the substrate proteins in contact with GroEL and allow detailed structural analysis of the interactions. A model peptide SBP has been shown to bind to a region in GroEL that is important for binding of substrate proteins. Here, we investigated whether the observed GroEL–SBP interaction represented those of GroEL–substrate proteins, and whether SBP was able to mimic various aspects of substrate proteins in GroE‐assisted protein folding cycle. We found that SBP competed with substrate proteins, including α‐lactalbumin, rhodanese, and malate dehydrogenase, in binding to GroEL. SBP stimulated GroEL ATP hydrolysis rate in a manner similar to that of α‐lactalbumin. SBP did not prevent GroES from binding to GroEL, and GroES association reduced the ATPase rates of GroEL/SBP and GroEL/α‐lactalbumin to a comparable extent. Binding of both SBP and α‐lactalbumin to apo GroEL was dominated by hydrophobic interaction. Interestingly, association of α‐lactalbumin to GroEL/GroES was thermodynamically distinct from that to GroEL with reduced affinity and decreased contribution from hydrophobic interaction. However, SBP did not display such differential binding behaviors to apo GroEL and GroEL/GroES, likely due to the lack of a contiguous polypeptide chain that links all of the bound peptide fragments. Nevertheless, studies using peptides provide valuable information on the nature of GroEL–substrate protein interaction, which is central to understand the mechanism of GroEL‐assisted protein folding. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanopore analysis of tethered peptides
Authors: Meng Howard , Detillieux Dielle , Baran Christian , Krasniqi Besnik , Christensen Christopher , Madampage Claudia , Stefureac Radu I. , Lee Jeremy S.
Published: September 2010

Peptides of 12 amino acids were tethered via a terminal cysteine to mono‐, di‐, tri‐, and tetrabromomethyl‐substituted benzene to produce bundles of one to four peptide strands (CY12‐T1 to CY12‐T4, respectively). The interaction of the bundles with the α‐hemolysin pore was assessed by measuring the blockade currents (I) and times (T) at an applied potential of − 50, − 100, and − 150 mV. Three types of events could be distinguished: bumping events, with small I and short T where the molecule transiently interacts with the pore before diffusing away; translocation events, where the molecule threads through the pore with large I and the value of T decreases with increasing voltage; and intercalation events, where the molecule transiently enters the pore but does not translocate with large I and the value of T increases with increasing voltage. CY12‐T1 and CY12‐T2 gave only bumping and translocation events; CY12‐T3 and CY12‐T4 also gave intercalation events, some of which were of very long duration. The results suggest that three uncoiled peptide strands cannot simultaneously thread through the α‐hemolysin pore and that proteins must completely unfold in order to translocate. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulating convectively coupled Kelvin waves using Lagrangian overturning for a convective parametrization
Authors: Haertel Patrick T. , Straub Katherine H.
Published: September 2010

The first tests of a new Lagrangian atmospheric model (LAM) focus on its representation of moist convective processes. The LAM is constructed by modifying a Lagrangian ocean model to accommodate compressible fluid parcels. The model includes a simple convective parametrization referred to as ‘Lagrangian Overturning (LO)’, in which air parcels exchange vertical positions in convectively unstable regions. Radiative convective equilibrium experiments conducted with a single‐column version of the LAM show that combining LO with simple parametrizations for surface fluxes, radiation and the evaporation of rain produces realistic temperature and moisture profiles for the Tropics. When LO is used in a tropical aquaplanet model, convectively coupled Kelvin waves spontaneously develop that have realistic temperature and zonal wind perturbations. These results have implications both for the potential usefulness of Lagrangian models for simulating moist convective processes, and for the mechanism of convectively coupled equatorial waves. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Functional assessment of a surgical robot for reduction of lower limb fractures
Authors: Hung Shuo‐Suei , Lee Ming‐Yih
Published: September 2010

Background

This paper presents a novel robot designed for reduction of lower limb fractures, with the additional features of automatic controlled flexion of the knee joint, individual traction of thigh and leg, and foot rotation. The aim of this design is to assist the orthopaedic surgeon to perform better fracture reduction through motor control, in contrast to current manual control, and the results of assessments of its functions on normal subjects are presented in this paper.

Methods

The robot was designed to be mounted onto the operation table, and was controlled through open switch relay. Functional assessments were conducted on six healthy volunteers in terms of knee joint motion and lower limb traction; measurement of angle and distance was calculated from data obtained by a 3D ultrasonic motion system (Zebris®).

Results

The results showed a good correlation of the flexion angle between the robot and the subjects at the knee joint. In the traction tests, a steady lengthening of the proximal as well as the distal segment of the robot was observed, and a slight increase in subjects' limb length was also recorded, which might be due to distraction in the joint space.

Conclusion

This automatic control fracture table has distinct features compared with the conventional ones, and it is believed to be of assistance to surgeons when performing fracture fixations. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resources, environmental change, and survival: asymmetric paths of young independent and subsidiary organizations
Authors: Bradley Steven W. , Aldrich Howard , Shepherd Dean A. , Wiklund Johan
Published: September 2010

Using an evolutionary model and a sample of 7,166 firms in the manufacturing and technology sectors of Sweden, we find that surviving organizations founded independent of a parent organization have lower long‐term failure rates than their protected subsidiary counterparts. Specifically, we find that subsidiary organizations have low mortality rates when compared to independent organizations, but that their mortality rates increase more rapidly during a severe economic downturn. We also find evidence that surviving independent organizations are more capable than subsidiary organizations of using their resources to reduce mortality rates during an environmental jolt. Overall, our findings strengthen the notion that organizational adaptation is linked not only to ecological and strategic processes but also to organizational structure. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatially Controlled Amyloid Reactions Using Organic Electronics
Authors: Gabrielsson Erik O. , Tybrandt Klas , Hammarström Per , Berggren Magnus , Nilsson K. Peter R.
Published: September 2010

Abnormal protein aggregates, so called amyloid fibrils, are mainly known as pathological hallmarks of a wide range of diseases, but in addition these robust well‐ordered self‐assembled natural nanostructures can also be utilized for creating distinct nanomaterials for bioelectronic devices. However, current methods for producing amyloid fibrils in vitro offer no spatial control. Herein, we demonstrate a new way to produce and spatially control the assembly of amyloid‐like structures using an organic electronic ion pump (OEIP) to pump distinct cations to a reservoir containing a negatively charged polypeptide. The morphology and kinetics of the created proteinaceous nanomaterials depends on the ion and current used, which we leveraged to create layers incorporating different conjugated thiophene derivatives, one fluorescent (p‐FTAA) and one conducting (PEDOT‐S). We anticipate that this new application for the OEIP will be useful for both biological studies of amyloid assembly and fibrillogenesis as well as for creating new bioelectronic nanomaterials and devices.
Control of Non‐metallic Inclusions by Slag‐metal Reactions for High Strength Alloying Steels
Authors: Jiang M. , Wang X.H. , Wang W.J.
Published: September 2010

A laboratory study was carried out to investigate non‐metallic inclusions in high strength alloying steel refined by high basicity slag. The results indicated that the inclusions were mainly of the CaOMgOAl2O3 system, Al2O3MgO and MgO‐based inclusions. The steel/slag reaction time and Al2O3 content in slag had a great effect on inclusions characteristics. With the reaction time increasing from 30 to 180 minutes, inclusions experienced a transformation process: from mainly Al2O3MgO system and MgO‐based inclusions to spherical CaOMgOAl2O3 system inclusions surrounded by a lower melting temperature surface layer of CaOAl2O3. Formation and transformation mechanisms of the inclusions were given based on the results. It was also found that with Al2O3 content in slag reduced from 40% to 30%, [Mg] contents in steel melts were increased and MgO in slag reached saturation, which contributed to the formation of more MgO‐based inclusions and a more scattered inclusion composition distribution after 90 min reaction.
Intrapartum translabial three‐dimensional ultrasound visualization of levator trauma
Authors: Blasi I. , Fuchs I. , D'amico R. , Vinci V. , La Sala G. B. , Mazza V. , Henrich W.
Published: September 2010

Objectives

The aim of this study was to visualize levator trauma by three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound performed during labor and soon after the crowning of the fetal head and to determine how often levator trauma occurs.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational study of 66 women enrolled during the first stage of labor. The women underwent intrapartum 3D transperineal ultrasound examination during the first and second stages of labor and within 12 h after delivery. Volume datasets were acquired and analyzed to determine the presence of levator trauma.

Results

Data from 10 of the 66 women were excluded from analysis—nine because they underwent Cesarean section in the first or second stage of labor and one because she underwent hysterectomy and no postpartum volumes were collected. Thus our study group comprised 56 women—35 nulliparous and 21 parous. A total of 504 volumes were collected in the 56 women (three volumes for each stage of labor). One hundred and twenty levator volumes were excluded from analysis, but volumes of acceptable quality were available for all three stages of labor in all women. Eleven (31.4%) of the 35 nulliparae had levator lesions detected postpartum and none of them had levator lesions before delivery. Five (23.8%) of the 21 parous women had a levator tear detected in their postpartum volumes. In two of these five women the levator tear was also present in both volumes taken during labor.

Conclusions

Visualization of the levator ani during labor by 3D ultrasound examination is feasible. Comparison of volumes obtained during labor and within the first 2 h after delivery supports the theory that crowning of the head is the immediate cause of avulsion of the levator ani muscle. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overview of homocysteine and folate metabolism. With special references to cardiovascular disease and neural tube defects
Authors: Blom Henk J. , Smulders Yvo
Published: September 2010

This overview addresses homocysteine and folate metabolism. Its functions and complexity are described, leading to explanations why disturbed homocysteine and folate metabolism is implicated in many different diseases, including congenital birth defects like congenital heart disease, cleft lip and palate, late pregnancy complications, different kinds of neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases, osteoporosis and cancer. In addition, the inborn errors leading to hyperhomocysteinemia and homocystinuria are described. These extreme human hyperhomocysteinemia models provide knowledge about which part of the homocysteine and folate pathways are linked to which disease. For example, the very high risk for arterial and venous occlusive disease in patients with severe hyperhomocysteinemia irrespective of the location of the defect in remethylation or transsulphuration indicates that homocysteine itself or one of its “direct” derivatives is considered toxic for the cardiovascular system. Finally, common diseases associated with elevated homocysteine are discussed with the focus on cardiovascular disease and neural tube defects.
An adult onset case of alpha‐methyl‐acyl‐CoA racemase deficiency
Authors: Smith Emily Helen , Gavrilov Dimitar K. , Oglesbee Devin , Freeman William D. , Vavra Michael W. , Matern Dietrich , Tortorelli Silvia
Published: September 2010

α‐Methyl‐acyl‐CoA‐racemase (AMACR) deficiency (OMIM 604489) is a rare peroxisomal disorder with a variable age of onset from infancy to late adulthood. We describe a 45‐year‐old male with a history of seizures who presented with relapsing encephalopathy. Laboratory studies revealed an elevated serum pristanic acid concentration, an elevated pristanic/phytanic acid ratio, as well as the previously described homozygous mutation in the AMACR gene, c.154T>C, consistent with AMACR deficiency. This homozygous mutation is associated with a variable phenotype ranging from neonatal cholestasis to late‐onset sensorimotor neuropathy. Dietary pristanic acid restriction was attempted to improve clinical status and the patient has remained in remission for more than 16 months.
CT findings of high-attenuation pulmonary abnormalities
Authors: Ceylan Naim , Bayraktaroglu Selen , Savaş Recep , Alper Hudaver
Published: September 2010

Objectives

To review the computed tomography (CT) findings of common and uncommon high-attenuation pulmonary lesions and to present a classification scheme of the various entities that can result in high-attenuation pulmonary abnormalities based on the pattern and distribution of findings on CT.

Background

High-attenuation pulmonary abnormalities can result from the deposition of calcium or, less commonly, other high-attenuation material such as talc, amiodarone, iron, tin, mercury and barium sulphate. CT is highly sensitive in the detection of areas of abnormally high attenuation in the lung parenchyma, airways, mediastinum and pleura. The cause of the calcifications and other high-attenuation conditions may be determined based on the location and pattern of the abnormalities within the lung parenchyma and knowledge of the associated clinical features.

Results

We have presented a diagnostic approach based on the presence and distribution of five main patterns of high-attenuation conditions on CT: (1) small hyperdense nodules, (2) large calcified nodules or masses, (3) high-attenuation linear or reticular pattern, (4) high-attenuation consolidation and (5) high attenuation extraparenchymal lesions.

Conclusions

Some high-attenuation pulmonary abnormalities have characteristic CT findings suggesting the correct diagnosis. In other diseases, a combination of clinical features and radiological findings can significantly improve diagnostic accuracy.
Panic disorder and subthreshold panic in the UK general population: Epidemiology, comorbidity and functional limitation
Authors: Skapinakis P. , Lewis G. , Davies S. , Brugha T. , Prince M. , Singleton N.
Published: September 2010

Objective

The epidemiology of panic disorder has not been investigated in the past in the UK using a nationally representative sample of the population. The aim of the present paper was to examine the epidemiology, comorbidity and functional impairment of subthreshold panic and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia.

Method

We used data from the 2000 Office for National Statistics Psychiatric Morbidity survey (N = 8580). Panic disorder and agoraphobia were assessed with the Revised Clinical Interview Schedule (CIS-R).

Result

The prevalence of panic disorder with or without agoraphobia was 1.70% (95% confidence interval: 1.41–2.03%). Subthreshold panic was more common. Economic inactivity was consistently associated with all syndromes. The comorbidity pattern of the panic syndromes and the associated functional impairment show that panic-related conditions are important public health problems, even in subthreshold status.

Conclusions

The findings show that efforts to reduce the disability associated with psychiatric disorders should include detection and management of panic disorder.
Information, Commitment and Consensus: A Comparison of Three Perspectives on Delegation in the European Union
Authors: Thomson Robert , Torenvlied René
Published: September 2010

Three perspectives on delegation in the European Union are presented in this article. The transaction-costs perspective focuses on information asymmetries between policy makers and implementers. According to the commitment perspective, policy makers delegate authority as a solution to commitment problems. The consensus-building perspective views the decision to delegate as a trade-off between decisiveness and inclusiveness during the bargaining process. Hypotheses are derived from these perspectives regarding the amount of delegation to both the European Commission and to member states in legislation. From detailed information on eighty-six EU laws, there is some evidence for the transaction-costs perspective as an explanation of delegation to the Commission. With respect to delegation to member states, there is some evidence for both the transaction-costs perspective and the consensus-building perspective.
Ontogeny of the Furongian (late Cambrian) remopleuridioid trilobiteHaniwa quadrataKobayashi, 1933 from Korea: implications for trilobite taxonomy
Authors: PARK TAE-YOON , CHOI DUCK K.
Published: September 2010

The monophyly of the trilobite Order Asaphida has been challenged. The Superfamily Remopleuridioidea was included in the Order Asaphida, based on the ventral median suture and highly bulbous protaspis of the late Furongian–Tremadocian representatives of the group. The remopleuridioid,Haniwa quadrataKobayashi, 1933 from the Furongian (late Cambrian) Hwajeol Formation of Korea, represents a primitive morphology of the Remopleuridioidea. This trilobite does not have a typical globular morphology of asaphoid protaspis, and the free cheeks remained yoked together during the whole of the development. This supports the previous proposition that the Superfamily Remopleuridioidea should be excluded from the Order Asaphida. In addition, the evolution of a highly globular protaspis of the Ordovician remopleuridioid trilobites from the less bulbous protaspis corroborates the possibility of multiple evolutions of a highly globular protaspis. It can be argued that the possession of a highly globular protaspis does not guarantee the membership of the Order Asaphida, and thus the concept of the Order Asaphida should be emended.
The influence of feeding level from 20 to 45 kg live weight on the performance and body composition of female and entire male pigs
Authors: Campbell R. G. , Taverner M. R. , Curic D. M.
Published: September 2010

Forty-two pigs representing equal numbers of entire males and females were used to study the effects on the performance and body composition of four restricted levels of feeding (14·5, 20·3, 24·9 and 29·4 MJ digestible energy per day), and of offering the same diet (14·5 MJ digestible energy per kg and 210 g crude protein per kg) ad libitum between 20 and 45 kg live weight.

Over the four restricted feeding treatments there were no significant differences between the sexes for the performance and body composition of four restricted levels of feeding (14·5, 20·3, 24·9 and 29·4 MJ digestible energy per day), and of offering the same diet (14·5 MJ digestible energy per kg and 210 g crude protein per kg) ad libitum between 20 and 45 kg live weight.

Although ad libitum energy intake was the same for both sexes (34·2 MJ digestible energy per day), raising digestible energy intake from that provided by the highest restricted feeding treatment (29·4 MJ/day) to ad libitum resulted in marked differences between the sexes for performance and body composition.

For males, raising digestible energy intake from 29·3 to 34·2 MJ/day improved the rate of live-weight gain and protein deposition by 0·15 and 0·10 respectively but had no further effect on food conversion ratio or body fat. The same increase in digestible energy intake for females improved growth rate by only 0·065, had no further effect on the rate of protein deposition but increased markedly food conversion ratio and body fat.
The effect of dietary metabolizable energy concentration upon the pre- and post-weaning performance of growing rabbits
Authors: Butcher Catherine , Bryant M. J. , Owen E. , Leach I. , Machin D. H.
Published: September 2010

Twenty-five Californian does were mated and given pelleted diets of either 8(LE) or 10(HE) MJ/kg dry matter (ruminant metabolizable energy values) throughout gestation and lactation. Litter sizes were adjusted to six offspring per doe. Milk yield was estimated from the weight differences of the litters before and after suckling, when the opportunity for nursing was confined to once daily. The young rabbits were allowed access to either the LE or HE diets from 18 days of age. Weaning took place at 32 days of age when four rabbits from each doe grouP × pre-weaning diet were slaughtered. Diet had no effect on litter size or birth weight, but does on the LE diet had lower live weights post partum (P < 0·05). Dry-matter consumption by the does on the LE diet was greater than for the HE diet (P < 0·05) both during gestation and lactation, but calculated metabolizable energy intakes were lower during lactation. There were no statistically significant differences between treatments for milk yield or live-weight gain to weaning and dry-matter intakes of the young at weaning, but daily live-weight gain from fostering to 18 days of age was greater for litters of does fed the HE rather than the LE diet (P < 0·05). There were no statistically significant differences between diets for carcass traits at weaning.

After weaning, 32 rabbits were given either the LE or HE diet until 2 kg live weight when they were slaughtered. A post-weaning × pre-weaning diet interaction (P < 0·05) occurred for live weights of the rabbits at the start of the post-weaning trial (i.e. after a 10-day adaptation period) with LE: LE rabbits being lighter than other rabbits as a results of poor live-weight gains during the adaptation period. Live-weight gains to slaughter were greater for the pre-weaning LE diet (P < 0·05) and the post-weaning HE diet (P < 0·01), although dry-matter intakes of the HE diet were less (P < 0·05). Rabbits on the LE diet had greater empty gut weights (P < 0·05) and lighter livers (P < 0·05) at slaughter.
Moderately Massive Modularity
Authors: Carruthers Peter
Published: September 2010

This paper will sketch a model of the human mind according to which the mind's structure is massively, but by no means wholly, modular. Modularity views in general will be motivated, elucidated, and defended, before the thesis of moderately massive modularity is explained and elaborated.
Gas Cascade Amplification in Ultra-High-Resolution Environmental Scanning Electron Microcopy
Authors: Toth Milos , Thiel Bradley L. , Knowles W. Ralph
Published: September 2010

We describe a feedback mechanism in the gas cascade amplification process used in magnetic immersion lens environmental scanning electron microcopy (ESEM). Feedback dominates gas gain under the conditions typically used for ultra-high-resolution ESEM and gives rise to novel dependencies of the imaging signal and noise on microscope operating parameters. It is ascribed tentatively to the generation of free electrons upon de-excitation of metastable species in the gas cascade. The results have implications for optimization of ESEM systems for applications such as critical dimension metrology and real-time imaging of nanostructure growth by gas mediated electron beam induced deposition.
Characterization of Healthy and Fluorotic Enamel by Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Zavala-Alonso Verónica , Martínez-Castanon Gabriel A. , Patiño-Marín Nuria , Terrones Humberto , Anusavice Kenneth , Loyola-Rodríguez Juan P.
Published: September 2010

The aim was to characterize the external structure, roughness, and absolute depth profile (ADP) of fluorotic enamel compared with healthy enamel. Eighty extracted human molars were classified into four groups [TFI: 0, control (C); 1–3, mild (MI); 4–5, moderate (MO); 6–9, severe fluorosis (S)] according to the Thylstrup-Fejerskov Index (TFI). All samples were analyzed by atomic force microscopy.

The mean values of enamel surface roughness (ESR) in nm were: Group C, 92.6; Group MI, 188.8; Group MO, 246.9; and Group S, 532.2. The mean values of absolute depth profile in nm were: C, 1,065.7; MI, 2,360.7; MO, 2,536.7; and S, 6,146.2. The differences between mean ESR and mean ADP among groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). This structural study confirms at the nanometer level that there is a positive association between fluorosis severity, ESR, and ADP, and there is an association with the clinical findings of fluorosis measured by TFI as well.
A Community Research Methodology: Working with New Migrants to Develop a Policy Related Evidence Base
Authors: Goodson Lisa , Phillimore Jenny
Published: September 2010

This paper reflects on a community research project aimed at building the capacity of Refugee Community Organisations (RCOs). The project intended to identify and collect a robust and reliable evidence base to equip RCO leaders with the relevant information required to engage in policy lobbying to raise awareness of the barriers faced by refugees when trying to access ESOL and support for mental health issues, education and employment. The main mechanism used to collect evidence was a team of 16 paid community researchers from a range of refugee backgrounds. This paper considers the rationale for adopting a community research approach, the meaning of community research to those involved, as well as the methodological challenges and practical concerns associated with the approach.
Introduction: Family Minded Policy and Whole Family Practice – Developing a Critical Research Framework
Authors: Clarke Harriet , Hughes Nathan
Published: September 2010

During the first decade of the twenty-first century, UK policy and practice has become increasingly overt in its concern with families. In January 2010, the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF, 2010) launched the Support for All: The Families and Relationships Green Paper. In its Foreword, Ed Balls, the then Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, presented ‘Strong, stable families’ as ‘the bedrock of our society’, positioning the Green Paper as ‘supporting families to help themselves’, whilst ‘ensuring that all public services play their part in supporting strong and resilient family relationships’ (DCSF, 2010: 3). The Centre for Social Justice offered an immediate response with its own Green Paper on the Family, emphasising the role of ‘family breakdown’ as ‘the root’ of ‘pathways to poverty’ for many, as well as a barrier to appropriate childhood development and positive ‘future life outcomes’ (Centre for Social Justice, 2010: 4).
Some Useful Sources
Authors: Loveless Lucy , Hickling Kate
Published: September 2010

As this themed section has illustrated, understanding and supporting families with multiple and complex needs is an area of policy and practice that is gaining importance and emphasis in the UK. This growth in interest is reflected in the developing field of family focused policy and practice work. In this article, we review a range of recent government-led initiatives and interventions developed principally through the Cabinet Office's Social Exclusion Task Force Think Family initiative. Whilst we recognise that there are a number of related policy documents and initiatives (many of which are discussed by Murray and Barnes in this edition), we choose to focus on Think Family due to its emphasis on a ‘whole family’ approach for families facing multiple sources of disadvantage.
Reaktionen auf das Stigma psychischer Erkrankung
Authors: Rüsch Nicolas
Published: September 2010

In der jüngeren Forschung zu Stigma und Diskriminierung gewinnt die Frage an Bedeutung, wie Angehörige einer stigmatisierten Minderheit ihre eigene Stigmatisierung wahrnehmen und auf sie reagieren. Aus der sozialpsychologischen Literatur zu anderen Gruppen, etwa ethnischen Minderheiten, liegen gut belegte Modelle zu diesem Thema vor, die bisher jedoch noch kaum auf Menschen mit psychischen Erkrankungen angewandt wurden. Dazu zählen (1) ein Stress-Coping-Modell von Stigma, (2) das Modell, wie sich die Wahrnehmung der eigenen diskriminierten Gruppe (ingroup) auf Selbstbild und Stigma-Bewältigung Betroffener auswirkt, sowie (3) die Unterscheidung zwischen ausdrücklichen («expliziten») und automatisch aktivierten («impliziten») Aspekten stigmatisierender Einstellungen. Letztere können etwa durch den Implicit Association Test beurteilt werden. In dieser Übersicht werden einige Studien vorgestellt, die die Bedeutung dieser Modelle für das Stigma psychischer Erkrankung und Stigma-Bewältigung untersuchen, etwa zu Stigma als Stressor und Auswirkungen wie Angst, Scham, Coping-Reaktionen und Sozialverhalten; automatischen Scham-Reaktionen und Selbststigma; biogenetischen Modellen psychischer Erkrankung und Selbstvorwürfen Betroffener; implizitem Selbststigma; und zum Zusammenhang zwischen (Selbst-)Stigma und meritokratischen Weltanschauungen wie der Protestantischen Ethik. Schließlich werden Schlussfolgerungen für Anti-Stigma-Initiativen, Stigma-Messinstrumente und künftige Forschung skizziert.
Peptidoglycan derived fromStaphylococcus epidermidisinduces Connexin43 hemichannel activity with consequences on the innate immune response in endothelial cells
Authors: Robertson Jennifer , Lang Sue , Lambert Peter A. , Martin Patricia E.
Published: September 2010

Gram-positive bacterial cell wall components including PGN (peptidoglycan) elicit a potent pro-inflammatory response in diverse cell types, including endothelial cells, by activating TLR2 (Toll-like receptor 2) signalling. The functional integrity of the endothelium is under the influence of a network of gap junction intercellular communication channels composed of Cxs (connexins) that also form hemichannels, signalling conduits that are implicated in ATP release and purinergic signalling. PGN modulates Cx expression in a variety of cell types, yet effects in endothelial cells remain unresolved. Using the endothelial cell line b.End5, a 6 h challenge with PGN induced IL-6 (interleukin 6), TLR2 and Cx43 mRNA expression that was associated with enhanced Cx43 protein expression and gap junction coupling. Cx43 hemichannel activity, measured by ATP release from the cells, was induced following 15 min of exposure to PGN. Inhibition of hemichannel activity with carbenoxolone or apyrase prevented induction of IL-6 and TLR2 mRNA expression by PGN, but had no effect on Cx43 mRNA expression levels. In contrast, knockdown of TLR2 expression had no effect on PGN-induced hemichannel activity, but reduced the level of TLR2 and Cx43 mRNA expression following 6 h of PGN challenge. PGN also acutely induced hemichannel activity in HeLa cells transfected to express Cx43, but had no effect in Cx43-deficient HeLa OHIO cells. All ATP responses were blocked with Cx-specific channel blockers. We conclude that acute Cx43 hemichannel signalling plays a role in the initiation of early innate immune responses in the endothelium.