bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of disorder on a microphase separation of cross‐linked polymer mixtures
Authors: Stepanow S.
Published: March 2011

We generalize the de Gennes' theory of the microphase separation of cross‐linked polymer mixtures to take into account the spatial fluctuations of the elasticity constant c(r) obeying a Poisson distribution. Within a meanfield analysis we found that for weak fluctuations of c(r) the free energy possesses a minimum corresponding to a microphase separation. The size of the domains is enlarged in comparison to the homogeneous case.
Monte carlo simulations of polymer surfaces in a cubic lattice, 1 development of a simulation algorithm and first results
Authors: Olaj Oskar Friedrich , Petrik Thomas , Zifferer Gerhard
Published: March 2011

A method is presented which allows to simulate surface properties of a model polymer system (in addition to bulk properties). The decisive parameter which controls the equilibrium concentration of empty sites within the bulk phase as well as the surface properties is the attractive energy operating between nonbonded neighbouring polymer segments. In effect, by varying this parameter between ‐0,5 and ‐1,5 the volume fraction of vacancies in the bulk phase changed from 0,183 to 0,003. All the parameters defined in order to characterize the “roughness” of the surface indicate that the surface gets smoother and smoother with increasing attractive segment‐segment interaction and, accordingly, also with decreasing bulk equilibrium concentration of vacancies.
Polymer brush in mixed solvent. The role of flory interaction parameter χAB of the solvent components
Authors: Birshtein T. M. , Lyatskaya Yu. V.
Published: March 2011

The properties of polymer brush in binary solvent are considered on the base of the mean‐field theory. The role of the interaction parameter χAB of the two components on the brush parameters was specially considered. The mixture of two precipitants was shown to be a good solvent for the polymer brush provided that their interaction parameter χAB is sufficiently great.
A statistical theory of polydisperse block copolymer systems under weak supercrystallization
Authors: Erukhimovioh Igor , Dobrynin Andrej V.
Published: March 2011

A statistical theory of conjugated macro‐ and microphase separation in flexile polydisperse block copolymer systems with a given arbitrary molecular structural distribution is developed in the mean field approximation. A special attention is paid to recognizing and calculating all terms having the least order of magnitude to be taken into account. To this end a special procedure is elaborated enabling to distinguish between strongly and weakly fluctuating order parameters characterizing polydisperse systems and to construct explicitly a one‐field parametrization of the free energy of the systems under investigation. The contribution of so‐called higher harmonics and effect of a redistribution of macromolecules among coexisting phases are taken into account therewith by a proper renormalization of the fourth vertex of the corresponding effective hamiltonian. In order to compare the presented approach and other existing theories phase diagrams of molten polydisperse diblock copolymer are built numerically in approximations corresponding to different theories. It is shown that our rigorous approach results in phase diagrams qualitatively different from the conventional ones. In particular, we predict the existence of one‐phase region having a quasicrystal symmetry and regions of coexistence of this phase with disordered phase and one having the symmetry of the body‐centered‐oubic lattice as well as a considerable shrinking of the region of the existence of the lamellar phase.
Coil to rod transition of a single polyelectrolyte chain
Authors: Luis Alessandrini José , Vila Jorge
Published: March 2011

Monte Carlo computer simulations are used to investigate the coil to rod transition of a single polyelectrolyte in the Coulombic unscreened regime. The results are compared with the predictions of the mean field theory (MFT) of dilute solutions.
A simple lennard‐jones model for computer simulation of conformational disordering in polymers
Authors: Hahn Jutta , Grossmann Hans Peter , Pertsin Alexander J.
Published: March 2011

A simple generalized model is proposed to describe the phenomenon of conformational disordering in polymers. The model represents a two‐dimensional system of flexible particles interacting through a modified Lennard‐Jones potential. Monte Carlo simulation of the phase behavior of the model system shows that the model is quite adequate to describe all essential features inherent in the transition to the conformationally disordered state.
Copolymerization of fluorinated monomers with nonfluorinated monomers. Reactivity and mechanisms
Authors: Boutevin Bernard , Ameduri Bruno
Published: March 2011

The copolymerization of two monomers usually leads to random copolymers except when one of both bears an electron‐acceptor group and the other one has an electron‐donor group. Many copolymers are commercially available, mainly in the series of hydrogenated monomers (S.M.A., GANTREZ, MALIALIM resins). The field of fluorinated copolymers is very interesting because of the strong electron‐acceptor behaviour of the fluorine atoms and more generally of halogenated atoms. Thus, after HALAR (CTFEa)‐ethylene), TEFZEL (TFE‐ethylene) and AFLAS (TFEb)‐propylene) resins, a new series of resins have been produced (copolymers of CTFE and vinyl ethers commercialized by ASAHI Corp.). So it can be considered that ACCEPTOR‐DONOR copolymerization with fluorinated monomers is one of the most important applications of that kind of research. After reminding the main mechanisms of that reaction (homopolymerization of charge transfer complex and copolymerization of free monomers), it will be discussed about the mechanism in some examples (CTFE‐vinyl ethers and other pairs of monomers). Then it will be explained how cotelomerization has provided new data to prefer a copolymerization mechanism by free monomers.
Model compounds and monomers derived from 1,1‐difluoroethene
Authors: Chambers R. D. , Apsey G. C. , Odello P. , Moggi G. , Navarrini W.
Published: March 2011

Saturated model compounds, related to elastomers that are derived from copolymers of CH2=CF2/CF2=CFCF3, have been synthesised and studied. Unsaturated compounds were obtained by both base‐ and Lewis‐acid induced processes. Some reactions with antimony pentafluoride lead to remarkably stable carbocations, and even di‐cations, and the nmr data for these systems is revealing about structure. Polyconjugated polymers may be obtained by this procedure. Preliminary studies are described, relating to the incorporation of crowded monomers into fluorocarbon polymers, ultimately, as a means of initiating cross‐linking processes for curing elastomers.
Fluorinated fullerenes: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Selig H. , Kniaz K. , Vaughan G.B.M. , Fischer J. E. , Smith A. B.
Published: March 2011

The existence of the fully fluorinated fullerene, C60F60, is still subject to controversy. Mass spectrometric evidence shows that it exists, albeit in trace amounts five orders of magnitude in concentration below the most abundant C60F40‐42. Generally, mixtures of C60Fn are obtained where n ranges from 30 to 52, depending on fluorinating conditions. The species with n = 36 is particularly stable. Attempts to increase n by use of the strongly fluorinating halogen fluorides, ClF3 or BrF5, have led to products C60FXXyOz (X = Br or Cl), where the origin of the oxygen is probably hydrolysis during analysis. Fluorinated C60 crystallizes as a mixture of hexagonal close packed (40%) and face‐centered cubic (60%) phases. X‐ray analysis yields an average C‐F bond length of 1.49A. Fluorination of C70 leads to mixtures with maximum average stoichiometries of C70F52.
Perfluorinated ion exchange polymers and their use in research and industry
Authors: Grot Walther G.
Published: March 2011

Tetrafluoroethylene is copolymerized with a perfluorovinyl ether, containing a functional end group (‐SO2F or ‐CO2CH3) to yield a melt fabricable precursor polymer. After fabrication into the desired shape, the polymer is treated with a solution of potassium hydroxide to convert the functional group to an ion exchange site.

The fundamental incompatibility of the ionic group with the perfluorinated polymer backbone results in a unique morphology, particularly in the presence of water or polar organic solvents. This has been the subject of extensive investigations by various research institutions.

The most important industrial use for these polymers is in the electrolysis of sodium chloride solutions. Initially introduced in order to eliminate the environmental problems of the amalgam process, their performance has now improved to the point where they offer substantial savings, particularly in terms of energy costs, over the two older processes.

An emerging, potentially very important use for perfluorinated ion exchange polymers is as an ionic conductor in fuel cells. Recent advances in this area will be discussed.
Ordered structures of poly(1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorodecyl α‐substituted acrylate)S
Authors: Shimizu Tetsuo , Tanaka Yoshito , Kutsumizu Shoichi , Yano Shinichi
Published: March 2011

Ordered structures of poly(1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorodecyl α‐fluoroacrylate) (P17FF), poly(α‐chloroacrylate) (P17FC), poly(methacrylate) (P17FM) and poly(acrylate) (P17FA) were investigated by X‐ray diffraction, DSC and polarizing microscopic observations. At room temperature, both P17FF and P17FC prefer the layered structure of single‐layer packing of the fluoroalkyl side chains, while P17FM contains both single‐layer and double‐layer packing, and P17FA forms double‐layer packing. As temperature increases, particularly in P17FF and P17FC, there was observed a structural rearrangement of the single‐layer packing to double‐layer one accompanied by melting of the side chain crystallites, which may come from an intermolecular interaction between the main chains caused by polar effect of the α‐substituents.
Binary and ternary poly(lactic acid)/poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) blends: The effects of oligo‐ϵ‐caprolactones upon mechanical properties
Authors: Lostocco Michael R. , Borzacchiello Assunta , Huang Samuel J.
Published: March 2011

Oligo‐ε‐caprolactones(o‐CL) have been utilized as principle secondary components within poly(lactic acid)[PLA]‐based blends as well as additives within larger‐sized PCL/PLA blends in an effort to fully complement the mechanical attributes of the respective polyesters. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis(DMTA) shows that the presence of o‐CL plasticizes the PLA non‐crystalline phase with a more pronounced effect seen as the size of o‐CL is reduced. Moreover, it appears that the size of o‐CL could also affect the static mechanical properties of the ternary systems as material stiffness and strength reside between those properties measured for high molecular weight PCL/PLA binary blends and the PLA homopolyester. Future work will examine the ability of these blends to sustain these properties during hydrolytic exposure.
Polymeric materials as biomaterials under particular consideration of biodegradable polymers
Authors: Höcker Hartwig
Published: March 2011

Biomaterials may be defined as artificial materials which fulfill the mechanical requirements and interact with the biosystem they are in contact with in same way as a natural material would react in the same place. While the requirements of mechanical properties can be reached by suitable organo‐polymeric and inorganic materials the interfacial biocompatiblity is neither understood in all its complexity nor can be fulfilled by any of the applied materials. Surface modification and characterization with greatest scrutiny and the observation of the answer of selected parameters of the biosystem are a subject of utmost interest. A few examples will be presented. In the long range, however, it has to be considered that any material is degraded and hence should present continuously a renewable biocompatible surface. On the other hand, materials are desired which deliberately are biodegradable. Presently available materials are polylactides and copolymers. An alternative could be presented by polydepsipeptides because of two reasons, (i) the local concentration of acid formed upon degradation would be reduced as compared to polylactides which in certain cases might be advantageous and (ii) the aminoacid units could carry side groups with bioactive molecules attached. Therefore, a new method of acylation of an aminoacid with a hydroxyacid is presented as well as the cyclisation to result in the cyclic depsipeptide and the polymerisation to yield the polydepsipeptide. The microstructure of the polymers, the thermal properties and the degradation behaviour is presented.
Preparation of rapidly curable hydrogels from gelatin and poly (carboxylic acid) and their adhesion to skin
Authors: Otani Yuto , Tabata Yasuhiko , Ikada Yoshito
Published: March 2011

Papidly curable hydrogels were prepared through chemical crosslinking of gelatin with poly(carboxylic acid)s including poly (L‐glutamic acid) (PLGA), hyaluronic acid (HA), and poly (acrylic acid) (PAA) by use of water‐soluble carbodiimide (WSC). The effects of the nature of added poly (carboxylic acid)s on gelation of mixed gelatinpoly (carboxylic acid) aqueous solutions and adhesion of the resulting hydrogels to the mouse skin were evaluated. The addition of poly (carboxylic acid) s reduced the gelation time of gelatin aqueous solutions except for HA. Mixed gelatin‐PLGA solutions were cured more rapidly than other mixed solutions and the gelation time was shortened with the increasing PLGA molecular weight. The resulting gelatin‐PLGA hydrogels exhibited stronger adhesion to the mouse skin than gelatin‐HA and gelatin‐PAA hydrogels. The bonding strength increased with the increase in PLGA molecular weight up to 83,000 and thereafter decreased. The longer gelation time and lower adhesion of the gelatin‐PAA hydrogels than the gelatin‐PLGA hydrogels seem to be due to poorer compatibility of gelatin with PAA than with PLGA. The mixed gelatin‐PLGA solution underwent phase separation when the concentration and molecular weight of PLGA became higher than a threshold. The insignificant or suppressive effect of HA addition might be ascribed to the HA‐WSC reaction which was the least effective in hydrogel formation.
Microscopy in the studies of polymer biodegradation
Authors: Janik Helena
Published: March 2011

The goal of the paper is to overview different possibilities of microscopy, which can be helpful in estimating some of the changes undergoing in the materials exposed to the action of micro‐organisms. The types of microscopic techniques and methods discussed in the paper are; optical transmission microscopy (OTM), optical transmission microscopy with polarised light (OPTM), optical reflected microscopy (ORM), optical reflected microscopy with polarised light (OPRM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The above methods allow to follow the changes of the surface view, the changes inside the polymer and the changes in birefringence (in the case of semi‐crystalline polymers). The results can be compared with other techniques used for monitoring of polymer biodegradation or biostability. The examples from author's studies on different types of polyurethanes and the blends of polyethylene with starch are also described in the paper.
Synthesis, recovery and possible application of medium‐chain‐length polyhydroxyalkanoates: A short overview
Authors: Kessler Birgit , Witholt Bernard
Published: March 2011

Bacterial polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are polyesters of 3‐hydroxyacids produced as intracellular granules by a large variety of bacteria, currently receiving much attention because of their potential as renewable and biodegradable plastics. The monomer units in these microbial polyesters are all in the R‐configuration due to the stereospecificity of biosynthetic enzymes. Pseudomonads synthesise mainly medium‐chain‐lenght PHAs, formed of monomers of 6 to 14 carbons. The PHA monomer composition is influenced by the substrate added to the growth media and determines the physical properties of the plastic material. The capability of Pseudomonads to incorporate many different functional groups into the PHAs does extend their physical properties and potential applications, and suggests various possibilities to produce tailor‐made polymers. The mcl‐PHAs are of major interest for specific uses, where chirality and elastomeric property of the polymers are important. In this report we will focus on the biotechnological production, recovery and possible applications of mcl‐PHAs.
Interactions between a biodegradable polymer, poly(hydroxybutyrate‐hydroxyvalerate), proteins and macrophages
Authors: Rouxhet L. , Legras R. , Schneider Y.‐J.
Published: March 2011

The effect of the chemical and morphological modifications of the surface of poly(hydroxybutyrate‐hydroxyvalerate) (92/8) (PHB/HV) films induced by an alkaline hydrolysis on the adsorption of three proteins known to modify cell behavior, namely albumin, collagen and fibronectin and on the adhesion and proliferation of monocytes‐macrophages of the J774 cell line, has been studied. Before treatment, the water contact angle θ of the face that went through a corona pre‐treatment was higher than the other one. It increases with hydrolysis to equal the value of θ angle of the other face after 2 hours. The XPS analysis revealed that all the impurities present on the native material have been eliminated after hydrolysis leading to a similar chemical composition on both faces. The surface concentrations of ‐COOH functions accessible to [3H]‐lysine increases sharply with the duration of hydrolysis. The sharpest increase is observed at the very beginning of hydrolysis. The surface morphology of the polymer is also modified by hydrolysis.

The adsorption of the three proteins increases when the polymer is hydrolyzed as well as the adhesion and proliferation of the monocytes‐macrophages, no matter which protein was adsorbed. There are some evidence suggesting that the protein conformation is different on both substrates. Collagen has a drastic repulsive effect on the cells on the native polymer but this repulsive effect disappeared on the hydrolysed one. Accordingly, it clearly appears that it is possible to modulate the biocompatibility of PHB/HV by either chemical hydrolysis or protein adsorption.
PKCδ regulates Mdm2 independently of p53 in the apoptotic response to DNA damage
Authors: Hew Hoi Chin , Liu Hanshao , Miki Yoshio , Yoshida Kiyotsugu
Published: March 2011

Apoptosis is the key process in which cells with defective genome can be eliminated. Dys‐regulation of apoptosis causes accumulation of irreparable mutation arisen from DNA damage and is the underlying cause of carcinogenesis. PKCδ is a multifunctional kinase involved in signal transduction of genotoxic‐induced apoptosis. Previous studies have demonstrated that PKCδ transactivates p53 in response to DNA damage. These findings led us to determine if Mdm2, a nuclear phospho‐protein and negative regulator of p53, could also be a PKCδ‐modulated substrate. We discovered that inhibition of PKCδ down‐regulates Mdm2 protein expression regardless of p53 status. Given that Mdm2 mRNA change was detected in p53‐proficient, but not deficient cells, PKCδ affected Mdm2 on the post‐translational level. Interestingly, treatment of MG132 restored Mdm2 expression to the steady‐state level. Further investigation showed that PKCδ inhibited Mdm2 ubiquitination in p53‐deficient cells and loss of PKCδ resulted in an increase in Mdm2 proteosomal degradation. Moreover, P300/CBP‐associated factor (PCAF), an ubiquitin ligase 3 for Mdm2, was observed to participate in Mdm2 ubiquitination by PKCδ inhibition and knock‐down of PCAF rescued Mdm2 diminution. Finally, as shown for PKCδ, Mdm2 was also required to exert pro‐apoptotic response caused by genotoxic agents in p53‐null cells. In addition, overexpression of Mdm2 restored inhibitory effect of apoptosis in cells silenced for PKCδ. Taken together, we conclude that PKCδ regulates Mdm2 expression distinctively of p53 pathway by affecting Mdm2 ubiquitination and maintenance of Mdm2 expression by PKCδ is important to ensure normal genotoxic cell death response in human cancer cells. Mol. Carcinog. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Possible involvement of lysophosphatidic acid receptor‐5 gene in the acquisition of growth advantage of rat tumor cells
Authors: Okabe Kyoko , Hayashi Mai , Yamawaki Yasuna , Teranishi Miki , Honoki Kanya , Mori Toshio , Fukushima Nobuyuki , Tsujiuchi Toshifumi
Published: March 2011

Aberrant expressions of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor genes have been reported in tumor cells. Here, we measured the expression levels of the Lpa5 gene and its DNA methylation status in rat tumor cells, and investigated cell growth effects of LPA in Lpa5 expressed cells. Real‐time reverse transcription (RT)‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis revealed that increased expressions of the Lpa5 gene were detected in rat liver‐derived hepatoma RH7777 and lung‐derived adenocarcinoma RLCNR cells. For the analysis of methylation status, bisulfite sequencing was performed with RH7777 and RLCNR cells and compared with other tumor cells and liver epithelial cells. The Lpa5 gene in Lpa5 unexpressed cells and liver epithelial cells were highly methylated in the 5′ upstream region. In contrast, the Lpa5 gene in RH7777 and RLCNR cells was unmethylated, correlating with increased expressions of Lpa5. In the assays for cell growth effects of LPA, LPA enhanced cell proliferation and motility in RH7777 and RLCNR cells. LPA also stimulated cell invasion in RLCNR, but not in RH7777 cells. In rat liver and lung tumors induced by nitroso‐compounds, 4 out of 6 hepatocellular carcinomas and 5 out of 6 lung adenocarcinomas indicated increased expressions of Lpa5 with unmethylated status. These results suggest that increased Lpa5 expressions due to aberrant DNA methylation may be involved in the acquisition of growth advantage of rat tumor cells. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nifedipine synergizes with calcium in activating the calcium sensing receptor, suppressing the expression of thymidylate synthase and survivin and promoting sensitivity to fluorouracil in human colon carcinoma cells
Authors: Liu Guangming , Hu Xin , Premkumar Louis , Chakrabarty Subhas
Published: March 2011

We have previously reported that activation of the G protein coupled calcium‐sensing receptor (CaSR) by extracellular Ca2+ down‐modulates the expression of thymidylate synthase (TS) and survivin and promotes sensitivity to fluorouracil in human colon carcinoma cells. Here, we report for the first time that the cardiac drug nifedipine acted synergistically with Ca2+ in CaSR activation and in the induction of intracellular Ca2+. Nifedipine in combination with Ca2+ significantly down‐modulated the expression of TS and survivin and promoted sensitivity to 5‐FU above and beyond the level achievable with Ca2+ alone. Nifedipine by itself, however, had no effect on the suppression of TS or survivin or sensitivity to 5‐FU. The action of Ca2+ or in combination with nifedipine was entirely CaSR dependent as the aforementioned effects did not occur in CaSR knocked down cells. siRNAs targeting TS or survivin or both could mimic the effect of CaSR activation in promoting sensitivity to 5‐FU. We conclude that nifedipine acts in synergy with Ca2+ in activating CaSR and in promoting sensitivity to 5‐FU by down modulating the expression of TS and survivin. G‐protein coupled CaSR has the potential of serving as a target for improving therapeutic outcome in colon cancer. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of HP1α regulation in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Thomsen Rune , Christensen Dennis B. , Rosborg Sanne , Linnet Toke E. , Blechingberg Jenny , Nielsen Anders L.
Published: March 2011

The three mammalian HP1 proteins, HP1α/CBX5, HP1β/CBX1, and HPγ/CBX3, are involved in chromatin packing and gene regulation. The HP1α protein is down‐regulated in invasive compared to non‐invasive breast cancer cells and HP1α is a suppressor of cell migration and invasion. In this report, we examined the background for HP1α protein down‐regulation in invasive breast cancer cells. We identified a strict correlation between HP1α down‐regulation at the protein level and the mRNA level. The HP1α mRNA down‐regulation in invasive cancer cells was not caused by mRNA destabilization. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis of the HP1α gene showed a decrease in the histone mark for transcriptional activity H3‐K36 tri‐methylation and RNA polymerase II in invasive breast cancer cells which correlated with a decreased abundance of basal transcription factors at the HP1α promoter. E2F transcription factors regulate HP1α transcription and we identified that E2F5 depletion increased HP1α expression in invasive breast cancer cells. Finally, we have characterized two HP1α mRNA isoforms and both HP1α mRNA isoforms were down‐regulated to a similar extend at the transcriptional level in invasive breast cancer cells. Collectively the presented results show that HP1α down‐regulation in invasive breast cancer cells is primary a transcriptional effect and demonstrates a novel set of mechanisms involved in HP1α transcriptional regulation. The finding that HP1α is down‐regulated primarily at the transcriptional level provides a new insight for the further elucidation of the detailed molecular mechanisms causing the HP1α down‐regulation in invasive breast cancer cells. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recent updates of surgical techniques and applications of free vascularized fibular graft in extremity and trunk reconstruction
Authors: Korompilias Anastasios V. , Paschos Nikolaos K. , Lykissas Marios G. , Kostas‐Agnantis Ioannis , Vekris Marios D. , Beris Alexandros E.
Published: March 2011

Successful free vascularized bone transfers have revolutionized the limb salvage and musculoskeletal reconstruction. The free vascularized fibula remains the mainstay in bone reconstruction combines the benefits of blood supply, biological potential, and callus formation with its unique biomechanical characteristics offering a supreme candidate for various dissolvable issues. Especially in conditions where there was lack of other applicable method and the free vascularized fibular graft was introduced as the only alternative. Extensive traumatic bone loss, tumor resection, femoral head osteonecrosis and congenital defects have been managed with exceptional results beyond expectations. The present manuscript updates several issues in application of free vascularized fibular graft in extremity and trunk reconstruction. It also highlights tips and pearls of surgical technique in some crucial steps of harvesting the vascularized fibular graft in order to offer a vascularized bone with safety and low donor site morbidity. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2011.
Inhibitory Effect of n‐Butylidenephthalide on Neointimal Hyperplasia in Balloon Injured Rat Carotid Artery
Authors: Liu Wei‐Shin , Lin Po‐Cheng , Chang Li‐Fu , Harn Horng‐Jyh , Shiuan David , Chiou Tzyy‐Wen , Jeng Jing‐Ren
Published: March 2011

This investigation was designed to determine the inhibitory effects and mechanisms of n‐butylidenephthalide (BP) from Angelica sinensis on smooth muscle cell (SMC) proliferation in vitro and in balloon injured rat carotid artery. Treatment of cultured rat aorta SMC‐derived A7r5 cells with 25–100 μg/mL BP significantly inhibited the proliferation and arrested the cell cycle in G0/G1 phase. BP induced the expression and migration of Nur77 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Among signal pathways, JNK and p38 MAPK were phosphorylated after BP treatment. In vivo, the neointimal area of common carotid artery 2 weeks after balloon injury reduced significantly in Sprague‐Dawley rats treated with 150–300 mg/kg BP compared with the control. The proliferative activity indicated by immunohistochemical detection of Ki‐67 positive cells in the neointima was significantly decreased in the 60–300 mg/kg BP treatment groups. The apoptotic activity indicated by cleaved caspase‐3 positive cells and Nur77 positive cells in the neointima was significantly increased in rats treated with 60–300 mg/kg BP. This study demonstrated BP inhibited neointimal hyperplasia in balloon injured rat carotid artery due to its dual effects of proliferative inhibition and apoptotic induction on SMCs. Up‐regulation of Nur77 gene may partly explain the antihyperplasia activity of BP on the neointima. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanowire Arrays: Intact Mammalian Cell Function on Semiconductor Nanowire Arrays: New Perspectives for Cell‐Based Biosensing (Small 1/2011)
Authors: Berthing Trine , Bonde Sara , Sørensen Claus B. , Utko Pawel , Nygård Jesper , Martinez Karen L.
Published: March 2011

Nanowires (NWs) are attracting more and more interest due to their potential cellular applications, such as delivery of compounds or sensing platforms. Arrays of vertical indium‐arsenide (InAs) NWs are interfaced with human embryonic kidney cells and rat embryonic dorsal root ganglion neurons. A selection of critical cell functions and pathways are shown not to be impaired, including cell adhesion, membrane integrity, intracellular enzyme activity, DNA uptake, cytosolic and membrane protein expression, and the neuronal maturation pathway. The results demonstrate the low invasiveness of InAs NW arrays, which, combined with the unique physical properties of InAs, open up their potential for cellular investigations.
Acute and chronic toxicity of Betanal®Expert and its active ingredients on nontarget aquatic organisms from different trophic levels
Authors: Vidal Tânia , Abrantes Nelson , Gonçalves Ana M. M. , Gonçalves Fernando
Published: March 2011

As a way to improve the efficacy to target organisms, new pesticide generation is based on technologically advanced coformulations of two or more active ingredients. One example is Betanal®Expert, a postemergence herbicide composed of an Advanced Micro Droplet coformulation of phenmedipham, desmedipham, and ethofumesate. Although its composed formulation brings an increase in the pesticide performance, it can also enhance its toxicity to nontarget species. Therefore, the present study intends to contribute with relevant information on ecotoxicological effects of Betanal®Expert and its active ingredients on a battery of bioassays using aquatic species from different trophic levels: bacteria (Vibrio
fischeri), microalgae (Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata, Chlorella vulgaris, and Chlamydomonas pseudocostata), macrophyte (Lemna minor), and cladocerans (Daphnia magna and Daphnia longispina) species. Across the organisms tested and endpoints measured, different responses concerning the toxicity of the active ingredients were found: (i) phenmedipham was the most toxic to V. fischeri and L. minor; (ii) desmedipham was the most toxic to P. subcapitata, D. magna, and D. longispina; (iii) and ethofumesate was the most toxic to C. pseudocostata and C. vulgaris. Furthermore, for C. pseudocostata and daphnids, the toxicity observed for some active ingredients was higher than the toxicity of the commercial formulation. In fact, in an attempt to evaluate the contribution of each active ingredient to the overall toxicity of Betanal®Expert, it was observed that, in general, the toxicity values obtained for desmedipham and phenmedipham were close or even lower to the values determined for Betanal®Expert, indicating that the ethofumesate can act as an antagonist in the three‐way coformulation. In spite of the most impaired species being the photosynthetic ones, this study also showed pernicious effects on nonphotosynthetic organisms with distinct target sites. Therefore, our results underline the importance of clarifying the mode of action and metabolic pathways of these compounds on nonphotosynthetic species. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Physiological responses of three marine microalgae exposed to cypermethrin
Authors: Wang Zhao‐Hui , Nie Xiang‐Ping , Yue Wen‐Jie , Li Xin
Published: March 2011

The effects of cypermethrin on physiological responses of three typical marine microalgal species Skeletonema costatum (Bacillariophyceae), Scrippsiella trochoidea (Dinophyceae), and Chattonella marina (Raphidophyceae), were investigated by 96‐h growth tests in a batch‐culture system. The 96‐h median inhibition concentrations (IC50) were 71.4, 205, and 191 μg L−1 for S. costatum, S. trochoidea, and C. marina, respectively. Quick and significant physiological responses occurred when algal cells were exposed to cypermethrin, and all biochemical parameters varied significantly within 6‐ or 12‐h exposure. Cypermethrin affected algal growth, protein content, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity by stimulation at low concentrations (1, 5 μg L−1) and inhibition at high concentrations (>50 μg L−1). A general increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) level was observed in all test groups, which suggested that the toxic effects of cypermethrin were probably exerted through free radical generation. These results suggest that the activation of SOD and promotion of protein at early exposure are important to counteract the oxidative stress induced by cypermethrin, and the inactivation of SOD may be crucial to the growth inhibition of microalgae by cypermethrin. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Oxidative stress in ventral prostate, ovary, and breast by 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid in pre‐ and postnatal exposed rats
Authors: Pochettino Aristides A. , Bongiovanni Bettina , Duffard Ricardo O. , Evangelista de Duffard Ana María
Published: March 2011

The herbicide 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) has been widely used in agriculture and forestry since the 1940s. 2,4‐D has been shown to produce a wide range of adverse effects—from embryotoxicity and teratogenicity to neurotoxicity—on animal and human health. The purpose of this study was to determine the possible effects of pre‐ and postnatal exposure to 2,4‐D on oxidative stress in ventral prostate, ovary and breast. Pregnant rats were daily exposed to oral doses of 70 mg/kg/day of 2,4‐D from 16 days of gestation up to 23 days after delivery. Then, the pups were sacrificed by decapitation at postnatal day (PND) 45, 60, or 90. Antioxidant enzyme activities and some parameters of the oxidative stress were assessed in ventral prostate, breast, and ovary. Results show that 2,4‐D produced three different effects. First, it increased the concentration of some radical oxygen species and the rates of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in ventral prostate, thereby causing oxidative stress at all ages studied. Although an increase in the activity of some antioxidant enzymes was detected, this seemed to have been not enough to counteract the oxidative stress. Second, 2,4‐D promoted the oxidative stress in the breasts, mainly during puberty and adulthood, probably because the developing gland is more sensitive to xenobiotics than the adult organ. Third, 2,4‐D altered the activity of some antioxidant enzymes and increased lipid peroxide concentration in the ovary. This effect could reflect the variety of ovarian cell types and their different responses to endocrine changes during development. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2013.
Community support systems: How comprehensive?
Authors: Turner Judith E. Clark , Shifren Irene
Published: March 2011

A multifaceted network of opportunities and services is required by mentally disabled adults living in the community; the challenge is to assure that client and community needs are comprehensively met, without interfering with individual rights or perpetuating needless dependence on formal services.
The rehabilitation approach to diagnosis
Authors: Anthony William A.
Published: March 2011

Because the outcome of a rehabilitation program for the psychiatrically disabled is not significantly related to the information provided by the traditional psychiatric diagnosis, a new assessment process must be developed that is more relevant to rehabilitation treatment goals.
Operating emergency services
Authors: Cesnik Bernard I. , Stevenson Karen H.
Published: March 2011

Openness to emergency referrals, on‐the‐spot response, and active community‐based treatment and follow‐up can go a long way toward preventing hospitalizations.
Parents of schizophrenics: Advocates for the mentally ill
Authors: Lamb H. Richard , Oliphant Eve
Published: March 2011

As parents' groups become more powerful and politically sophisticated, professionals will be reminded more and more forcefully when they have been insensitive to the needs of the severely mentally ill and their families.
Consultation with youth programs
Authors: Gordon James S.
Published: March 2011

Rather than threatening the independence and audacity enabling alternative services to work successfully with particularly disturbed and disturbing young people, sharing knowledge, skills, and observations can help practitioners strengthen that work and become part of it.
Police consultations
Authors: Reiser Martin
Published: March 2011

Collaboration between police administrators and mental health consultants is becoming more acceptable on both sides, despite continuing mutual suspicion and stereotyping.
Emotionally disturbed adolescents and the law: Implications of current legal trends on residential treatment
Authors: Silverstein Elliot M.
Published: March 2011

The treatment of mentally disturbed adolescents inevitably suffers in the dispute between lawyers and clinicians concerning the need for increasing due process protections.
Teaching About Genetic Testing Issues in the Undergraduate Classroom: A Case Study
Authors: Rogers Jill Cellars , Taylor Ann T. S.
Published: March 2011

Educating undergraduates about current genetic testing and genomics can involve novel and creative teaching practices. The higher education literature describes numerous pedagogical approaches in the laboratory designed to engage science and liberal arts students. Often these experiences involve students analyzing their own genes for various polymorphisms, some of which are associated with disease states such as an increased risk for developing cancer. While the literature acknowledges possible ethical ramifications of such laboratory exercises, authors do not present recommendations or rubrics for evaluating whether or not the testing is, in fact, ethical. In response, we developed a laboratory investigation and discussion which allowed undergraduate science students to explore current DNA manipulation techniques to isolate their p53 gene, followed by a dialogue probing the ethical implications of examining their sample for various polymorphisms. Students never conducted genotyping on their samples because of ethical concerns, so the discussion served to replace actual genetic testing in the class. A basic scientist led the laboratory portion of the assignment. A genetic counselor facilitated the discussion, which centered around existing ethical guidelines for clinical genetic testing and possible challenges of human genotyping outside the medical setting. In their final papers, students demonstrated an understanding of the practice guidelines established by the genetics community and acknowledged the ethical considerations inherent in p53 genotyping. Given the burgeoning market for personalized medicine, teaching undergraduates about the psychosocial and ethical dimensions of human gene testing seems important and timely, and introduces an additional role genetic counselors can play in educating consumers about genomics.
Physicochemical Properties of Novel Phosphobetaine Zwitterionic Surfactants and Mixed Systems with an Anionic Surfactant
Authors: Nong Lanping , Xiao Chengliang , Zhong Zhensheng
Published: March 2011

A series of novel zwitterionic phosphobetaine (PPBT) surfactants were synthesized using long chain fatty alcohol, epichlorohydrin, dimethylamine and sodium dihydrogen phosphate as raw materials. The physicochemical properties of the phosphobetaine surfactants such as isoelectric point, foaming, surface tension, critical micelle concentration (CMC) and Krafft point were measured. Low CMC and surface tension values indicated the surface activities of the phosphobetaine surfactants were quite excellent. The CMC and surface tension values of PPBT/SDS mixed systems were determined. It was found both of CMC and surface tension values decreased compared with single surfactant system because of the association between dodecyl sulfate anions and cationic groups in phosphobetaine by electrostatic attraction.
Serum anti‐müllerian hormone concentrations in reproductive age women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome: the influence of body mass index
Authors: Sahmay Sezai , Guralp Onur , Senturk Levent M. , Imamoglu Metehan , Kucuk Mustafa , Irez Tulay
Published: March 2011

Purpose

To evaluate the correlation between anti‐müllerian hormone (AMH) and body mass index (BMI) in patients with and without polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Methods

Serum AMH levels of 332 women in their reproductive period and below 45 years of age who were admitted to our reproductive endocrinology clinic with infertility were investigated in a cross‐sectional study. Patients were divided into two groups as BMI under and equal or over 25 kg/m2. Both groups were divided into two subgroups as PCOS and non‐PCOS. AMH levels of patients were analyzed for each group.

Results

Mean AMH values of BMI <25 and ≥25 kg/m2 groups were 3.87 ± 2.95 and 3.58 ± 2.93 ng/mL, respectively (P > 0.05) in all patients. Means of AMH were not significantly different in BMI quartiles (r = −0.008401, P = 0.96). Among 107 patients with PCOS, means of AMH were 6.85 ± 2.95 ng/mL in 56 patients with BMI <25 kg/m2 and 6.66 ± 3.18 ng/mL in 51 patients with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (P > 0.05). In the group of 225 non‐PCOS patients, means of AMH were 2.27 ± 1.12 ng/mL in 104 patients with BMI <25 kg/m2 and 2.28 ± 1.49 ng/mL in 121 patients with BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Body mass index does not seem to have an effect on serum AMH levels in reproductive age women both with and without PCOS.
Long Hiatus in Proterozoic Sedimentation in India: Vindhyan, Cuddapah and Pakhal Basins - A Plate Tectonic Model
Authors: Mishra D. C.
Published: March 2011

Most of the Proterozoic basins in India, viz. the Vindhyan, the Cuddapah and the Pakhal Basins have experienced long hiatus between the upper and the lower group of rocks. It is proposed that the older group of rocks of Paleoproterozoic period (~1.9-1.6 Ga) formed during the rifting phase caused by large scale magmatism in respective basins possibly due to plume tectonics. On the other hand, the younger group of rocks of Neoproterozoic (~1.0-0.7 Ga) are formed during the final phase of convergence after mountain building that supplied sediments. These geological processes explain large scale disturbances in the older group of rocks during subsequent convergence and collision as they usually occurred along the rifted margins of the cratons. These processes also explain the undisturbed nature, devoid of magmatic rocks of the younger group of rocks and hiatus of about 0.5-0.6 Ga in each case. It is suggested that the plume that was responsible for these rifting of the Indian cratons during Paleo-Mesoproterozoic might have also been responsible for the break up of contemporary Columbian agglomeration in this section. Same model can be used to explain the formation of Proterozoic basins and related hiatus any where else where similar geological environment exist.
Assessing the Relative Packing Behaviour of Chandarpur and Khairagarh Sandstones of Proterozoic Chhattisgarh Basin
Authors: Singh M. K.
Published: March 2011

The paper concerns mainly with properties of packing of the Proterozoic Chandarpur and Khairagarh sandstones of Chhattisgarh Basin. An attempt has been made to decipher the nature of boundary between Chandarpur Group and overlying Raipur Group on the basis of grain packing. For the purpose of study based on eight representative thin sections of Chandarpur and Khairagarh sandstones, measurements of grain size distribution, types of grain contacts, packing density (Pd), packing proximity (Pp) and linear regression analysis has been carried out. The relation of packing density with packing proximity of Khairagarh sandstone shows positive correlation coefficient (r) with linear regression equation (y) and no clear trend in packing proximity (Pp) vs grain size (Is) is observed whereas Chandarpur sandstone shows packing density increases and packing proximity decreases with linear regression equation (y) and correlation coefficient (r). Chandarpur grain size tends to increase with packing density (Pd) whereas packing proximity (Pp) increases but Khairagarh sandstone packing density (Pd) decrease with increase of grain size (Is) and packing proximity (Pp) tends to increase with decrease in grain size. Above study indicates that packing behaviour of Chandarpur sandstones and Khairagarh sandstones are entirely different.
Impact of Lead Contamination on the Engineering Properties of Clayey Soil
Authors: G. Resmi , Santosh G. Thampi , Chandrakaran S.
Published: March 2011

Clay liners are widely used as barriers to arrest the migration of pollutants. These liners are subjected to leaching of various chemicals and hazardous wastes. Migration of heavy metals through the liner material may lead to changes in the soil properties and this, in turn, may affect the performance of liners. In this paper, the change in index and engineering properties of clayey soil due to migration of lead is presented. Pronounced changes in soil properties are noticed when the soil is contaminated with high concentrations of lead. The findings from the present study are important while designing liners in landfills used for containment of pollution due to heavy metals and hazardous wastes.
Geology, Structural and Exhumation History of the Higher Himalayan Crystallines in Kumaon Himalaya, India
Authors: Patel R.C. , Adlakha Vlkas , Singh Paramjeet , Kumar Yogesh , Lal Nand
Published: March 2011

The crystallines in the Kumaon Himalaya, India are studied along Goriganga, Darma and Kaliganga valleys and found to be composed of two high-grade metamorphic gneiss sheets i.e. the Higher Himalayan Crystalline (HHC) and Lesser Himalayan Crystalline (LHC) zones. These were tectonically extruded as a consequence of the southward directed propagation of crustal deformation in the Indian plate margin. The HHC and its cover rocks i.e. the Tethyan Sedimentary Zone (TSZ) are exposed through tectonic zones within the hinterland of Kumaon Himalaya. The HHC records history of at least one episode of pre-Himalayan deformation (D1), three episodes of Himalayan deformation (D2, D3, D4). The rocks of the HHC in Kumaon Himalaya are thoroughly transposed by D2 deformation into NW-SE trending Sm (S1+S2). The extent of transposition and a well-developed NE-plunging L2 lineation indicate intense strain during D2 throughout the studied portion of the HHC. Ductile flow continued, resulting in rotation of F1 and F2 folds due NE-direction and NW-SE plunging F3 folds within the HHC. The over thickened crystalline was finally, superimposed by late-to-post collisional brittle-ductile deformation (D4) and exposed the rocks to rapid erosion.

Apatite Fission Track (AFT) and Zircon Fission Track (ZFT) studies from the Kumaon Himalaya suggest reactivation of the Main Central/Munsiari Thrust (MCT/MT) and Vaikrita Thrust (VT), rapid exhumation and a system that has been in topographic and exhumation steady-state since at least 4 Ma.
Leibnizian Materialism
Authors: Hunter Graeme
Published: March 2011

In this paper, I argue a position that has almost never been held: that Leibniz was a materialist. At the conclusion of my article, I consider whether the difficulty of reconciling Leibniz’s materialism with other texts where he appears to be an idealist is best explained by Glenn Hartz’s idea of “theory pluralism,” concluding that there is instead a Leibnizian idea of “theory reconciliation” which does a better job.