bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pervaporation properties of humic acid–added membranes
Authors: Mishima S. , Nakagawa T.
Published: August 2004

The saving and recycling of chemical substances, which may be hazardous to human health and ecosystems, constitute a desirable goal worldwide. It is important to use a natural polymer that has a highly specific function and an environmental friendliness. In this study, humic acid was added to a natural polymer, a pectin membrane, and a hydrophobic poly(1‐trimethylsilyl‐1‐propyne) (PMSP) membrane to enhance the affinity for phenol or aniline. Also, the separation performance, based on the membrane materials and methods of addition, was investigated. The effect of the adsorption of phenol and aniline by humic acid was investigated. A high rate of aniline adsorption was observed. The interaction of the humic acids and the aniline was mainly observed by polar bonding. For the PMSP membrane with humic acid added to the surface, the humic acid exists in a colloidal state. During pervaporation, the permeation of water was prevented by the adsorbed solute. Because the permeability of aniline increased and the permeability of water significantly decreased, the PMSP membrane with humic acid added to the surface had a high permeate aniline concentration, and the permselectivity was improved. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 461–468, 2004
Simplified theory for linear rheology of monodisperse linear polymers
Authors: Heuzey Marie‐Claude , Wood‐Adams Paula , Sekki Djamila
Published: August 2004

A new version of the tube theory based on the de Gennes–Doi–Edwards reptation concept (reported in Likhtman and McLeish's work published in 2002) is evaluated, modified to allow for simplified computations, and used to study the relationship between zero‐shear viscosity and molecular weight for monodisperse entangled linear homopolymers. The Likhtman–McLeish model combines self‐consistent theories for contour length fluctuations and constraint release with reptation theory for monodisperse linear polymers. Because of the nature of the Rubinstein and Colby approach used for the treatment of constraint release, the related term is probabilistic and requires stochastic simulations for the calculation of the relaxation modulus G(t). This makes the Likhtman–McLeish model computationally difficult to use. In this work we solve this problem by generating an approximate closed‐form solution for the stochastic term. Then analytical integration of the relaxation modulus function G(t) provides an expression for the zero‐shear viscosity (η0). Results of the computations of the zero‐shear viscosity and of the slope of η0 versus molecular weight are compared with available experimental data for monodisperse entangled linear polystyrene and polyethylene (hydrogenated polybutadiene). The model is a major improvement over previous theoretical models, even if there is still some disagreement between the predictions and experimental data of the slope of η0 versus molecular weight. The possibility of inferring monomer chemistry–dependent parameters from the zero‐shear viscosity remains a difficult task because of the introduction of a constraint‐release parameter. Nevertheless, the model is a useful tool for the prediction of linear viscoelasticity data. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 569–586, 2004
Effects of diluent's concentration upon the properties of organically modified ceramics based composites for application in dentistry
Authors: Lizymol P. P.
Published: August 2004

Organically modified ceramic resin (ormoresin) mixed with triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) was used as the binder resin for the preparation of visible light cured dental composite. Three different combinations of ormoresin and TEGDMA were used for the preparation of composites, and their properties were compared in terms of depth of cure, diametral tensile strength (DTS), flexural strength (FS), flexural modulus (FM), Vickers micro hardness (VMH), water sorption (WS), and solubility. It is found that an optimum amount of diluent is necessary for better crosslinking and properties of cured composites based on ormoresin. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 469–473, 2004
Sorption and diffusion of supercritical carbon dioxide into polysulfone
Authors: Tang Muoi , Huang Yi‐Ching , Chen Yan‐Ping
Published: August 2004

Sorption and diffusion of supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) into polysulfone (PSF) from 313 K and 20 MPa to 333 K and 40 MPa were investigated in this study. A simple gravimetric method was used to measure the mass gain of SCCO2 in PSF, and the Fick's diffusion model was applied to describe the desorption process. The sorption amount, the sorption diffusivity under supercritical states, and the desorption diffusivity at ambient conditions are presented. Comparisons of the sorption amounts and diffusivities of CO2 for polymers of polycarbonate and PSF are discussed according to the interactions between gas and polymers. The morphology change and plasticization effect attributed to gas sorption in PSF were studied. Effects of glass‐transition temperature and yielding stress for PSF and other polymers were used to describe the difference in their diffusivities for the sorption and desorption processes. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 474–482, 2004
Reverse temperature injection molding of Biopol™ and effect on its properties
Authors: Zhang Jinwen , McCarthy Stephen , Whitehouse Robert
Published: August 2004

A novel reverse temperature profile for the injection molding of Biopol™ was studied. It was found that both the mechanical properties and the part quality of Biopol™ were improved with this new reverse temperature process. When injection molded, most conventional thermoplastic polymers are processed at 30 to 70°C above the melting temperature; under these conditions, Biopol™ degraded rapidly and the resulting material showed poor mechanical properties. In contrast, when using a reverse temperature molding process, where Biopol™ was melted in the first zone and then was conveyed through the barrel with a decreasing temperature pathway and was injection‐molded at a temperature below its melting point, the resulting material showed higher mechanical properties. The processing of Biopol™ was also greatly improved. The reverse temperature process uses the characteristically slow crystallization rate of Biopol™, which can be easily injected as hot melt even below its normal melting point. DSC analysis suggested that the reverse temperature process resulted in a more homogeneous crystalline phase than the conventional process. GPC analysis also indicated that thermal degradation of Biopol™ was largely reduced in the reverse temperature injection‐molding process compared with conventional methods. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 483–491, 2004
Effects of water contents and postcuring conditions on Bis‐GMA/TEGDMA dental restorative composite resins
Authors: Fong Hao
Published: August 2004

Dental restorative composite resins of the monomer bisphenol A glycerolate dimethacrylate (Bis‐GMA/TEGDMA; 50/50, mass ratio), with different initial water contents in monomer mixtures and subject to various postcuring conditions, were prepared. The effects of water contents and postcuring conditions on photopolymerization rate, degree of methacrylate double bond conversion, and mechanical properties (flexural strength and elastic modulus) were systematically investigated. Within the scope of this investigation, the initial water content was not found to significantly affect the mechanical properties of the photocured composite resins. Nevertheless, the addition of distilled water into the monomer mixture slightly increased the degree of methacrylate double bond conversion, and slightly slowed down the photocuring process, especially when the amount of water was oversaturated. Postcuring conditions of 37°C vapor or water aging increased the degree of methacrylate double bond conversion, but made the mechanical properties of the composite resins less desirable, especially under water‐aging conditions. Postcuring treatment of the composite resins in a 100°C vacuum (∼ 27.9 KPa) oven for 1 day improved both the flexural strength and the elastic modulus by at least 30%, but the improvements quickly diminished upon subsequent 37°C water aging. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 492–502, 2004
Ageing studies of pineapple leaf fiber–reinforced polyester composites
Authors: Uma Devi L. , Joseph Kuruvila , Manikandan Nair K. C. , Thomas Sabu
Published: August 2004

This experimental study evaluated the water absorption characteristics of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF)–polyester composites of different fiber content. The degree of water absorption was found to increase with fiber loading. The mechanism of diffusion was analyzed and the effect of fiber loading on the sorption kinetics was studied. The diffusion coefficient was calculated and found to increase with fiber content. Studies were also made to correlate water absorption with the cross‐sectional areas of the specimens. The effects of ageing on the tensile properties and dimensional stability of PALF polyester composites were studied under two different ageing conditions. Ageing studies showed a decrease in tensile strength of the composites. The composite specimens subjected to thermal ageing showed only a slight deterioration in strength. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 503–510, 2004
Synthesis and application of multilayered core shell particles for toughening of unsaturated polyester resin
Authors: Guhanathan S. , Saroja Devi M.
Published: August 2004

Toughening particles, comprising two radially alternating rubbery and glassy layers, were prepared by using sequential emulsion polymerization. The conditions which led to controlled particle size and morphology are discussed. A relatively new type of inert core shell particle [fly‐ash (FA)] and surface‐activated FA, by two different silane coupling agents, namely 3‐aminopropyltrimethoxy silane (AMP) and vinyltriethoxysilane (VES)‐based multilayered toughening particles, which radially comprise rubbery and glassy layers, were also prepared. The toughening particles were used with general purpose polyester resin (GPR) for making composite sheets. Formation of multiple layers in the core‐shell particles and their morphology were confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural, impact, and hardness of the toughened GPR are discussed critically. The tensile fractured surfaces were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermal property such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were also discussed. The composites were exposed to various adverse environmental conditions such as water, boiling water, salt water, acid, alkali, toluene, weather, and freezing–thawing for 30 days. The mechanical properties (viz. the tensile strength, tensile modulus, elongation at break, flexural strength, flexural modulus, impact strength and hardness of FA/GPR, FA.AMP core/GPR, and FA.VEScore/GPR) were studied before and after exposure to adverse environmental conditions. The results indicate that the mechanical properties of FA/GPR composite are improved by surface treatment of FA and their resistance to the various environmental stresses is also enhanced substantially on modification by toughening particles. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 511–528, 2004
Modification of the polarity of isotactic polypropylene through blending with oxidized paraffin wax
Authors: Novák I. , Krupa I. , Luyt A. S.
Published: August 2004

The modification of the polarity of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) through blending with oxidized paraffin wax (Fischer–Tropsch synthesis) was investigated. The oxidized paraffin wax significantly increased the polar component of the total surface free energy of polypropylene. Modified iPP also showed significantly higher adhesion to the polar substrate, as represented by a crosslinked epoxy‐based resin. The conservation of the good mechanical properties of the blends was observed up to 6 wt % wax. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 529–533, 2004
Novel polyether polyurethane/clay nanocomposites synthesized with organic‐modified montmorillonite as chain extenders
Authors: Ni Ping , Li Jing , Suo Jishuan , Li Shuben
Published: August 2004

A novel polyether polyurethane/clay nanocomposite was synthesized using polytetramethyleneglycol (PTMEG), 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), 1,6‐hexamethylenediamine, and modified Na+‐montmorillonite. Here, organic‐modified montmorillonite (O‐MMT) was formed by applying 1,6‐hexamethylenediamine as a swelling agent to treat Na+‐montmorillonite. The X‐ray analysis showed that exfoliation occurred for the higher O‐MMT content (40 wt %) in the polymer matrix. Mechanical analysis indicated that when the O‐MMT was used as chain extender to replace a part of 1,2‐diaminopropane to form PU/clay nanocomposites, the strength and strain‐at‐break of the polymer were enhanced with increased content of O‐MMT in the matrix. When the O‐MMT content attained about 5%, the tensile strength and elongation at break were over two times that of the pure PU. The thermal stability and the glass‐transition of O‐MMT/PU nanocomposites also increased with increasing the O‐MMT content. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 94: 534–541, 2004
Fetal toxicity of valsartan and possible reversible adverse side effects
Authors: Berkane Nadia , Carlier Patrick , Verstraete Lieve , Mathieu Emmanuelle , Heim Nazbanou , Uzan Serge
Published: August 2004

BACKGROUND

Published cases suggest that the use of angiotensin II receptor antagonists is fetotoxic during the third trimester, but not in early pregnancy. CASE: We report a case in which the adverse fetal effect of angiotensin II receptor antagonist treatment was reversed. A woman with chronic hypertension was treated with valsartan until gestation week (GW) 20, when a complete anhydramnios was observed. Six days after interruption of the treatment, amniotic fluid reappeared. It reached a normal level at GW 23.5. The plasmatic creatinine level and the renal ultrasound examination were within normal limits at the six‐month follow‐up.

CONCLUSIONS

Whereas angiotensin‐II‐receptor antagonist generates a severe renal toxicity, this case suggests that, at least in the first half of pregnancy, these effects can be reversed. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 67:, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anomalies of the forebrain with radial limb defects: Garcia‐Lurie‐Steinfeld syndrome?
Authors: McPherson Elizabeth , Huff Dale , Dunn Jeanette , Muenke Maximilian
Published: August 2004

BACKGROUND

Severe anomalies of the forebrain together with radial limb anomalies have been reported in Steinfeld syndrome, XK aprosencephaly, and partial monosomy 13q. Steinfeld syndrome is an extremely variable autosomal dominant condition that, in severe cases, is characterized by holoprosencephaly, radial limb defects, and renal and/or cardiac defects. In mild cases there may be only thumb hypoplasia, ocular coloboma, or oral clefts. XK aprosencephaly, also called Garcia‐Lurie syndrome (GLS), is a usually sporadic disorder with radial limb defects and aprosencephaly/atelencephaly. Based on two atypical sibships, autosomal recessive inheritance has been suggested. Two patients with variations of monosomy 13q have been described with atelencephaly but, generally, Steinfeld and XK aprosencephaly patients are chromosomally normal. Holoprosencephaly in 13q deletion patients appears to be due to ZIC2 mutations, but ZIC2 has not been previously tested in Steinfeld syndrome or GLS patients.

CASES

We report three sporadic cases with clinical features intermediate between Steinfeld and GLS, including severe forebrain malformations and radial limb defects. All had normal karyotypes, and mutations in ZIC2 were absent in the two cases tested.

CONCLUSIONS

In our cases and in the literature there is significant clinical overlap between Steinfeld syndrome and GLS. We propose these conditions may not be nosologically or etiologically distinct. The spectrum of severe forebrain anomalies in these conditions is broader than previously thought and may include some neural tube defects. Mild cases are difficult to identify and the full range of expression remains unknown. Autosomal dominant inheritance with incomplete penetrance and frequent new mutations is postulated. Thorough clinical evaluation is recommended for children with severe forebrain and radial limb defects. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Heterogeneous Oxidation of Pyrimidine and Alkyl Thioethers in Ionic Liquids over Mesoporous Ti or Ti/Ge Catalysts
Authors: Cimpeanu Valentin , Parvulescu Vasile I. , Amorós Pedro , Beltrán Daniel , Thompson Jillian M. , Hardacre Christopher
Published: August 2004

Heterogeneous catalytic oxidation of a series of thioethers (2‐thiomethylpyrimidine, 2‐thiomethyl‐4,6‐dimethyl‐pyrimidine, 2‐thiobenzylpyrimidine, 2‐thiobenzyl‐4,6‐dimethylpyrimidine, thioanisole, and n‐heptyl methyl sulfide) was performed in ionic liquids by using MCM‐41 and UVM‐type mesoporous catalysts containing Ti, or Ti and Ge. A range of triflate, tetrafluoroborate, trifluoroacetate, lactate and bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide‐based ionic liquids were used. The oxidations were carried out by using anhydrous hydrogen peroxide or the urea–hydrogen peroxide adduct and showed that ionic liquids are very effective solvents, achieving greater reactivity and selectivity than reactions performed in dioxane. The effects of halide and acid impurities on the reactions were also investigated. Recycling experiments on catalysts were carried out in order to evaluate Ti leaching and its effect on activity and selectivity.
Ductoscopic cytology and image analysis to detect breast carcinoma
Authors: Sauter Edward R. , Klein‐Szanto Andres , Ehya Hormoz , MacGibbon Brenda
Published: August 2004

BACKGROUND

The goal of the prospective study was to determine whether 1) image analysis (IA; including DNA index [DI], S‐phase fraction, and the presence or absence of aneuploidy or hypertetraploidy [HT]) of fiberoptic ductoscopy (FD) breast specimens was feasible, 2) IA findings from FD specimens predicted histopathologic evidence of disease, and 3) a combination of IA, cytology, and clinical factors provided complementary information in the diagnosis of breast carcinoma.

METHODS

IA and cytologic evaluation were performed on 106 consecutively collected ductoscopic specimens from 88 subjects.

RESULTS

IA was successful in 73 (71%) FD specimens. HT (P = 0.03) was related to intraductal visual observations. The proportion of atypical papillomas with aneuploidy was greater (P = 0.05) than in any other class. The HT index was higher in atypical papilloma (P = 0.02) and in breast carcinoma (P = 0.05) than with other diagnoses. The proportion of papilloma cases with HT was greater (P = 0.04) than benign papillomas. Malignant cytology was associated with a higher DI (P = 0.02) and a higher HT index (P = 0.001) than nonmalignant (benign or atypical) cytology. HT (P = 0.002) was less common with cytology containing few epithelial cells, and the HT index was higher with malignant versus nonmalignant FD cytology (P = 0.001). The percentage of cells containing HT was greater in FD specimens that were suspicious for malignancy (P = 0.006) than in those with benign cytology or mild atypia. Considering all samples and combining IA, cytologic, and visual findings in a stepwise linear discriminant analysis optimized the sensitivity (61%) and specificity (90%) of breast carcinoma prediction. Excluding spontaneous nipple discharge (SND) samples and adding epithelial cell quantity in samples improved the model (sensitivity, 85%; specificity, 80%).

CONCLUSIONS

IA was feasible in FD specimens whenever adequate epithelial cells were present. IA and cytologic findings were associated. Adding IA results to cytology and visual findings and excluding samples with SND improved diagnostic sensitivity. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Breast carcinoma in elderly women
Authors: Gennari Roberto , Curigliano Giuseppe , Rotmensz Nicole , Robertson Chris , Colleoni Marco , Zurrida Stefano , Nolè Franco , Braud Filippo de , Orlando Laura , Leonardi Maria Cristina , Galimberti Viviana , Intra Mattia , Veronesi Paolo , Renne Giuseppe , Cinieri Saverio , Audisio Riccardo A. , Luini Alberto , Orecchia Roberto , Viale Giuseppe , Goldhirsch Aron
Published: August 2004

BACKGROUND

Aging remains one of the single greatest risk factors for the development of new breast carcinoma. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relation between biologic features at first diagnosis of breast carcinoma and treatment choice for postmenopausal women ≥ 50 years to optimize treatment in the elderly.

METHODS

The sample included 2999 consecutive postmenopausal patients referred for surgery at the European Institute of Oncology (Milan, Italy) from April 1997 to February 2002. The patients were grouped according to age: young postmenopausal (YPM; 50–64 years, n = 2052), older postmenopausal (OPM; 65–74, n = 801), and elderly postmenopausal (EPM; ≥ 75, n = 146).

RESULTS

EPM patients referred to surgery had larger tumors compared with YPM patients (pT4: 6.7% vs. 2.4%) as well as greater lymph node involvement (lymph node positive: 62.5% vs. 51.3%). EPM patients showed a higher degree of estrogen and progesterone receptor expression (P < 0.01), less peritumoral vascular invasion (P < 0.01), and less HER‐2/neu expression (P < 0.01) than YPM patients. Comorbidities were more often recorded for elderly patients (72% EPM vs. 45% YPM; P < 0.001), did not influence surgical choices, and were similar across groups (breast conservation: 73.9%, 76.9%, and 72.9%, respectively). No systemic therapy (either chemotherapy or endocrine therapy) was recommended for 19.1% of the EPM compared with 5.4% and 4.7% of the two other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In spite of larger tumor size at presentation, older patients had tumors with more favorable biologic characteristics, when compared with younger postmenopausal patients. Reluctance to prescribe systemic treatments was due to the complexity of evaluation for these patients. Taking into account the data from the current study and given the climate of uncertainty regarding optimal treatment, the authors decided to individualize care on the basis of biologic characteristics, comorbidity, social support, functional status, and patient preferences. Trials of tailored adjuvant therapy should be a health care priority. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
The factor structure of the Brief Symptom Inventory: intellectual disability evidence
Authors: Kellett Stephen , Beail Nigel , Newman David W. , Hawes Annika
Published: August 2004

The use of psychometrics to assess the mental health of people with mild intellectual disabilities is a developing field of clinical and methodological interest. The available measures however tend to be few in number, with an even smaller minority progressing through the required rigorous psychometric development process. An assessment and potential outcome measure that has begun to be employed with people with intellectual disabilities is the Brief Symptom Inventory. This study examines the construct validity of the inventory through an exploratory factor analysis, with a sample of 335 intellectually disabled participants. Eight clear and interpretable factors emerged from the factor analysis with a high degree of overlap being apparent with the original factor solution. Such factor findings do not compromise the extant composite and global psychometric measures of the inventory, namely the global severity index, positive symptom distress index and positive symptom total. The results are discussed in the context of the apparent need for conducting confirmatory factor analysis as the next stage in the psychometric evaluation and clinical evolution of the Brief Symptom Inventory. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of an imaginal provocation test to evaluate treatment for anger problems in people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Taylor John L. , Novaco Raymond W. , Guinan Claire , Street Nicola
Published: August 2004

Anger and associated aggressive behaviour are significant clinical issues for many people with intellectual disabilities (IDs) that can lead to serious constraints to their liberty, which, in turn, adversely affects their quality of life. There is some evidence to support cognitive–behavioural anger treatment in this client group; however, anger assessment protocols for people with IDs should be diversified. In this regard, a method for anger assessment using imaginal provocation scenes was extended for use with this client population and the context in which treatment takes place. Two studies of the Imaginal Provocation Test (IPT) were conducted: the first with 48 patients examined its internal reliability and concurrent validity with anger psychometric scales; the second investigated whether it was sensitive to change associated with anger treatment in a small outcome study involving men with IDs and histories of offending. The IPT was found to successfully induce anger, be internally reliable, have strong concurrent validity and detect statistically significant changes in anger following anger treatment (N= 9), compared with a routine care waiting‐list control group (N= 8). The IPT also had value in highlighting clinical improvements for anger treatment condition participants compared with the control group. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Glasgow Social Self‐Efficacy Scale—a new scale for measuring social self‐efficacy in people with intellectual disability
Authors: Payne Richard , Jahoda Andrew
Published: August 2004

This paper describes the development of the Glasgow Social Self‐Efficacy Scale (GSSES) and reports preliminary details of its psychometric properties.

The scale was found to have a test–retest reliability correlation coefficient of 0.90 in a sample of participants with intellectual disability. This represents strong test–retest reliability. Cronbach's α for internal reliability of GSSES was 0.78 for the 38 participants with intellectual disability and 0.90 for the 19 participants in the non‐disabled group, representing acceptable internal reliability.

Significant but low concurrent validity (r = 0.42) was found for non‐disabled participants between the GSSES and a previous measure of social self‐efficacy. Although both communication skill and scores on the GSSES were associated with depression, they were not significantly correlated with each other. This suggests that the belief of a person with an intellectual disability in their social ability is distinct from their social ability as rated by others and provides support for the construct validity of social self‐efficacy in this client group.

The results of these tests of reliability and validity suggest the GSSES is a useful addition to cognitive measures in people with intellectual disability. Given the small sample size, verification of its psychometric properties in larger scale studies would be beneficial. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Linking stigma to psychological distress: testing a social–cognitive model of the experience of people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Dagnan Dave , Waring Martina
Published: August 2004

In this study we explore the link between the social experience of people with intellectual disabilities and core cognitive process that have previously been shown to be related to a range of psychological disorders. Thirty‐nine people with intellectual disabilities completed self‐report scales measuring the perception of stigma, core negative evaluations and social comparison. Correlation analysis suggests that core negative evaluative beliefs about the self are positively associated with the experience of feeling different: a process that could be described as internalizing the experienced stigma. Relationships were also found between negative self‐evaluations and the social attractiveness dimension of the social comparison scale. Using regression techniques stigma was found to have an impact on social comparison processes that was mediated by evaluative beliefs. These findings support a social–cognitive view of the importance of the social world to people with an intellectual disability, and the psychological damage that stigmatization can cause. We discuss interventions that integrate both social and cognitive domains. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anger and aggression in people with intellectual disabilities: treatment and follow‐up of consecutive referrals and a waiting list comparison
Authors: Lindsay William R. , Allan Ronald , Parry Catherine , Macleod Fiona , Cottrell Julie , Overend Helen , Smith Anne H.W.
Published: August 2004

Based on the work of Novaco, there have been several reports of case illustrations that develop anger management training for people with intellectual disabilities. Case reports have become increasingly sophisticated, with social validation of aggression and follow‐ups of up to 10 years. There have also been three recent outcome studies attesting to the effectiveness of anger management treatment methods. The current report uses more recently developed methods and a larger number of subjects than previous reports and presents a controlled study of these methods. Thirty‐three participants made up the treatment condition. Fourteen participants constituted a waiting list control condition, which lasted six months. Participants were assessed using a provocation inventory, anger provoking roleplays, self‐report diaries and reports of aggressive incidents. All were assessed pre‐ and post‐experimental conditions and for the treatment condition some had three, nine and 15 months follow‐up. For some participants there was a 21 and 30 month follow‐up. Control participants all went on to complete treatment. There were significant improvements in anger control on all measures. While there were significant within subject improvements on the provocation inventory, the treatment subjects did not show significant improvement over the control subjects at post‐treatment. A significantly greater percentage of control subjects committed further aggressive incidents. Taken together, the results show the positive effect of anger management training and the generalization of these effects to a reduction in the number of reported aggressive incidents. The present study is further evidence of the effectiveness of anger management training for people with intellectual disabilities. These improvements are shown not only in assessments designed to measure the effects of treatment but also in more general socially validated records of incidents of aggression. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gold and Silver Micro‐Wire Electrodes for Trace Analysis of Metals
Authors: Billon Gabriel , van den Berg Constant M. G.
Published: August 2004

Micro‐wire electrodes were made from gold and silver wires (diameter: 25 μm; length: 3–21 mm) and sealed in a polyethylene holder; micro‐disk electrodes were made from the same wires and polished. The gold electrodes were electrochemically coated with mercury before use; the silver wires were used without coating. Comparative measurements demonstrated that the micro‐wire electrodes had much higher sensitivity, and a much (10–100×) lower limit of detection, than micro‐disk electrodes, and the sensitivity increased linearly with the area and length of the electrodes. Using a gold micro‐wire electrode of 21 mm and a deposition time of 300 s the limit of detection was 0.07 nM Pb in seawater of natural pH, compared to a limit of detection of 10 nM Pb (more than 100×greater) using a gold micro‐disk electrode of the same diameter. Using the silver micro‐wire electrode the limit of detection of lead was improved by a factor of 10 to 0.2 nM in acidified seawater. It is expected that the improved sensitivity of micro‐wire electrodes will lead to successful in situ detection of metals in natural waters.
An Electrochemical Investigation into a Series of Tricyanovinylated Pyrrole Moieties
Authors: McCormac Timothy , Farrell David , Browne Wesley , Vos Johannes G.
Published: August 2004

The electrochemical behavior of three tri‐cyanovinylated pyrrole species namely, 2‐tricyanovinyl‐pyrrole (C4H4NC5N3), 2‐tricyanovinyl‐N‐methylpyrrole (C5H6NC5N3) and 2‐tricyanovinyl‐N‐phenylpyrrole (C10H8NC5N3), has been studied. All compounds were found to exhibit both an irreversible oxidation at more positive potentials compared to the unsubstituted monomer species and a reversible reduction redox couple associated with reduction of the co‐ordinated cyano ligands. The latter reductions of the tricyanovinylated compounds to their radical anions at platinum, carbon and gold electrodes in acetonitrile solution have been studied by cyclic voltammetry, using a variety of supporting electrolytes. The half‐wave potentials for each compound were found to be dependent upon the supporting electrolyte but independent of the nature of the electrode surface. This is attributed to ion‐pairing between the anions and the alkali metal cations. The reduction based redox processes of C10H8NC5N3 and C5H6NC5N3 were found to be facile in nature and independent of both the nature of the electrolyte and electrode surface. However, the reduction of C4H4NC5N3 was found to be irreversible in nature. Attempts were made to elucidate, by both electrochemical and spectroscopic means, the structure of the products obtained upon oxidation of the tricyanovinylated compounds.
Aberrant p53 alters DNA damage checkpoints in response to cisplatin: Downregulation of CDK expression and activity
Authors: Wrighton Katharine H. , Prêle Cecilia M. , Sunters Andrew , Yeudall W. Andrew
Published: August 2004

The p53 tumor suppressor protein is a critical mediator of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in response to genotoxic stress. Abrogation of p53 function is a major feature of tumor development and may result in a compromised DNA‐damage response. In our study, we examined the effect of expressing a human p53 cDNA, encoding a histidine to leucine amino acid substitution at codon 179 (H179L), on the ability of wild‐type p53‐containing NIH3T3 cells to respond to treatment with the chemotherapeutic cisplatin. After 72 hr of cisplatin treatment control cells underwent apoptosis preceded by a combination of S‐ and G2 arrest, as judged by flow cytometry of propidium iodide‐stained cells, and TUNEL and caspase‐3 assays. This correlated with increased expression of the pro‐apoptotic protein Bax. In contrast, cells stably expressing H179L‐p53 arrested in S‐phase following cisplatin treatment, which correlated with a marked decrease in the expression of cdc2, cyclin B1 and cyclin A, and a decrease in CDK2 and cyclin A‐associated kinase activity. Interestingly, H179L p53 expressing cells underwent apoptosis earlier than control cells, indicating that this aberrant p53 may enhance cisplatin chemosensitivity. These data suggest that dominant‐negative p53 can influence the expression and activity of CDK complexes, thereby modifying cell behavior following cisplatin‐induced genotoxicity. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proliferative activity of plasma cells is the most relevant prognostic factor in elderly multiple myeloma patients
Authors: García‐Sanz R. , González‐Fraile M.I. , Mateo G. , Hernández J.M. , López‐Berges M.C. , de las Heras N. , Fernández‐Calvo J. , Ortega F. , Portero J.A. , Bárez A. , Galende J. , Orfão A. , San Miguel J.F.
Published: August 2004

Although multiple myeloma (MM) is predominantly a disease of the elderly, few studies have focused on the identification of prognostic factors in this group of patients. Four hundred twenty five MM patients >65 years were uniformly treated with chemotherapy (MP or VCMP/VBAD). Multivariate analysis identified 4 factors with independent unfavorable prognostic influence: high percentage of S‐phase bone marrow plasma cells (>2.5%); elevated β2 microglobulin (B2M) (>4 mg/L); age >80 years old; and LDH serum levels (above normal limit). The S‐phase value was the most powerful independent prognostic factor to discriminate subgroups of patients with different prognosis. Thus, 3 main risk categories could be identified according to S‐phase values: ≤1%, 1–3% and >3%, with median survivals of 34, 22 and 12 months, respectively (p < 0.0001). Our study also proved the value for elderly patients of the recently developed International Score System (ISS) based on B2M and albumin. Furthermore, the number of S‐phase cells helped to subdivide the ISS III Group identifying a subset of patients with very poor prognosis defined by an additional high S‐phase, who displayed a median survival of only 8 months. These results demonstrate that elderly patients can be accurately classified according to prognosis, which may be particularly valuable when comparing the efficacy of new treatment strategies. Moreover, our results underline the high prognostic value of proliferative activity of PC, a parameter that should be considered in routine laboratory investigations of MM. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Loss of function of vascular smooth muscle cells by nitric oxide‐dependent and ‐independent interactions with tumorigenic cells
Authors: Morissette Guillaume , Petitclerc Eric , Marceau François
Published: August 2004

Little is known about the interaction of tumor cells with host vascular smooth muscle cells. In reconstitution experiments, tumorigenic cell lines (including the rat hepatocarcinoma Morris 7777 and human melanoma M‐21) were cultured for 17 hr in the presence of rat aortic rings, subsequently evaluated in contractility assays (response to phenylephrine and KCl). An agonist‐independent loss of contractility was observed in rings pre‐incubated with either tumorigenic cell lines or their conditioned medium (CM). The depressing effect of Morris cells depends largely on the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in smooth muscle cells and was reversed by an inhibitor of this enzyme; iNOS immunoreactivity was verified in some muscular vessels at the periphery of tumors formed by the Morris cell line in rats. The M‐21 melanoma produces cytotoxicity in rat aortic rings (presence of single stranded DNA, cleavage of PARP, in differentiated smooth muscle only), accounting for the irreversible loss of contractility. The cytotoxicity produced by M‐21 CM is not dependent on NO. Gel filtration of CM suggests that both the iNOS‐ and cytotoxicity‐inducing substances from Morris hepatoma cells or M‐21 cells, respectively, are mainly of low molecular weight (1 kDa or less). Other cell lines derived from rat or human tumors produce minimal effects on the rat aorta smooth muscle (H4‐II‐E‐C3) or an irreversible anergy (RBL, MDA‐MB‐231, HEP‐3B, HEP G2). The results emphasize that inhibition of vascular smooth muscle is relevant to tumor biology both by modulation of tumoral hemodynamics and by influencing the state of vessel maturation. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The protective effects of melanoidins in adriamycin‐induced oxidative stress in isolated rat hepatocytes
Authors: Valls‐Bellés V , Torres MC , Muñiz P , Boix L , González‐Sanjose ML , Codoñer‐Franch P
Published: August 2004

The importance of the antioxidants contained in foods is well recognized both for preserving the foods themselves and for supplying essential antioxidants in vivo. Among these, the melanoidins formed during food processing and storage represent a significant part of our diet, with an average intake of several grams per day. Melanoidins exhibit antioxidant properties in vitro through their protective effect against reactive oxygen species. Here we investigated the protective effect of the model glucose–glycine melanoidins on oxidative stress induced by adriamycin in hepatocytes isolated from rats. The study was performed by examining cell toxicity (lactate dehydrogenase) release in the medium, lipoperoxidation, protein oxidation, GSH and ATP levels. The addition of 50 µg glucose–glycine melanoidins to the hepatocytes treated with 25 and 75 µM of adriamycin decreased the cell oxidative damage. The cell toxicity, lipoperoxidation and the protein oxidation decreased significantly in the presence of melanoidins. The effect of melanoidins on the intracellular antioxidant GSH when co‐incubated the adriamycin–hepatocytes with melanoidins resulted in a recovery of GSH levels. Furthermore, from the study of ATP levels we found that the damage to the mitochondria induced by adriamycin is decreased in the presence of melanoidins. According to these results, we suggest that melanoidins are capable of preventing cell oxidation. Based on these mechanisms, the ingestion of melanoidins present in food could be play a role important in the prevention of oxidative damage and prevention the diseases related to free radicals. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary effects on growth, plasma lipid and tissues of rats fed with non‐conventional oil of Telfairia occidentalis
Authors: Ajayi Ibironke A , Oderinde Rotimi A , Taiwo Victor O , Agbedana Emmanuel O
Published: August 2004

The nutritional value of Telfairia occidentalis seed and seed oil available in local market was studied in rats. The average values of the proximate analysis on dry matter basis were 203 g kg−1 crude protein, 536.3 g kg−1 fat, 39 g kg−1 ash, 95 g kg−1 crude fibre and 43.7 g kg−1 carbohydrate, while the moisture content was 75 g kg−1. The mineral analyses showed that T occidentalis seeds contain potassium (3280 mg kg−1), sodium (1230 mg kg−1), magnesium (60.8 mg kg−1), calcium (60.8 mg kg−1) and iron (13.0 mg kg−1). The oil extracted from the seed sample showed physicochemical properties that suggest its suitability for edible and industrial uses. The oil contained high levels of unsaturated fatty acids, oleic and linoleic, which accounted for 63.22% of total fatty acids recovered, while palmitic acid (27.4% of the oil by weight) was the most prevalent saturated fatty acid in the oil. No trace of eleostearic acid was detected in the oil. The effect on physical appearance, weight gain, organ weight, tissue and plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels was determined in rats fed a diet containing 5% T occidentalis oil. These were compared with those of rats fed a control diet (0% T occidentalis oil) over an 8 week study period. Weekly monitoring of the rats showed good physical appearance and steady weight increase. The test rats were not anaemic and no mortality was recorded. While there was a significantly higher (p < 0.05) level of cholesterol in the heart of test rats compared with the control, there was a significantly lower (p < 0.05) plasma cholesterol level, suggesting that T occidentalis seed oil can be used to lower plasma levels of cholesterol. Histological examination of the sections of the heart, liver, kidney and spleen of the test rats revealed varying degrees of pathology. These include artherosclerotic changes in the walls of vasa vasori and lymphatics in the heart and hyaline degeneration of myofibrils, fatty infiltration of hepatocytes, and glomerular and tubular degeneration in the kidneys. These lesions may have been due to the effect of fatty acids, especially erucic acid, in the seed oil, which at 1.24% (less that the 5% conventional allowable limit for edible oils) may be intolerable for rats and may be unsuitable for human consumption. The seed oil may be used for industrial purposes such as soap making, lubrication and cosmetics for which it is well suited. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of cationization on DSC thermal profiles, pasting and emulsifying properties of sago starch
Authors: Siau CL , Karim AA , Norziah MH , Wan Rosli WD
Published: August 2004

Cationic sago starches were prepared using an aqueous alkaline process with different levels of cationic reagent 3‐chloro‐2‐hydroxypropyltrimethylammonium chloride (0.01–0.10 M), sodium hydroxide (0.03–0.86 M) and reaction temperature (30–62 °C). The degree of substitution (DS), reaction efficiency, thermal and pasting properties of cationic sago starches were analysed. Emulsifying and fat binding properties of native sago starch, cationized sago starch and commercial chitosan were compared at two different pH values (4 and 7). Degree of substitution increased with an increase in concentration of cationic reagent or NaOH, or reaction temperature. The reaction efficiency was proportional to the concentration of NaOH and reaction temperature but inversely proportional to the cationic reagent concentration. The highest DS and reaction efficiency achieved was 0.06 and 79%, respectively. The pasting temperature and gelatinization enthalpy of cationic starch (DS 0.06) were lower compared with native sago starch. Cationization increased the peak viscosity and breakdown of the starch paste but decreased the setback. The presence of cationic groups significantly increased emulsion stability, emulsion viscosity and fat binding capacity of sago starch. However, the cationic sago starch was still inferior to chitosan, which showed the highest emulsion stability, emulsion viscosity and fat binding capacity. There was no significant difference between the surface tension values of native and cationic sago starch and chitosan. The influence of pH on emulsifying properties was not significant. The emulsion stability of the cationic sago starch improved due to an increase in viscosity and fat binding capacity but not its surface active property. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Ochratoxin A production by Aspergillus carbonarius on some grape varieties grown in Italy
Authors: Battilani Paola , Logrieco Antonio , Giorni Paola , Cozzi Giuseppe , Bertuzzi Terenzio , Pietri Amedeo
Published: August 2004

Fungi responsible for the presence of Ochratoxin A (OTA) in grapes have been identified as belonging to the black aspergilli, Aspergillus section Nigri, among which Aspergillus carbonarius is the main producer. Despite the widespread occurrence of OTA in various types of wine, there is no specific information on the ability of black aspergilli to infect berries and to produce OTA in different grape varieties. The aim of this study was to investigate the susceptibility to A carbonarius of twelve grape varieties representative of a wide range of characteristics, including geographical distribution. In all the conditions of berry status (intact and damaged) and temperature (20 and 25 °C) tested, the incidence of colonised berries and their OTA contents were always low in ‘Bianco d'Alessano’, ‘Pampanuto’ and ‘Uva di Troia’. In contrast, ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’, ‘Trebbiano’ and ‘Verdeca’ showed high fungal incidence and OTA content. The information gathered is relevant for defining risk factors for OTA presence in grapes, even if these data need to be confirmed by observations in vineyards. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of high molecular mass polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in refined olive pomace and other vegetable oils
Authors: Moreda Wenceslao , Rodríguez‐Acuña Rafael , del Carmen Pérez‐Camino María , Cert Arturo
Published: August 2004

A new and simple method has been developed for determining high molecular mass polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in refined olive pomace, and other vegetable oils from an initial sample of 0.25 g. The hydrocarbon fraction is isolated by solid‐phase extraction (SPE) on silica gel using hexane as eluent. The fraction is evaporated to reduced volume and cleaned‐up by SPE on an amino phase eluting with toluene. The evaporated residue, dissolved in acetonitrile, is analyzed by reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detector using programmed excitation and emission wavelengths. The benzo(e)pyrene is determined together with other usual heavy PAHs. Interferences due to squalene and other hydrocarbons are minimized. Recoveries were greater than 80% and detection limits ranged from 0.01 to 0.2 µg kg−1. The method was validated using certified oil samples and was applied to various vegetable oils. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry