bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological Activities Encoded by the Murine Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transcriptome Provide a Basis for Their Developmental Potential and Broad Therapeutic Efficacy
Authors: Phinney Donald G. , Hill Katy , Michelson Charles , DuTreil Maria , Hughes Catherine , Humphries Sally , Wilkinson Robin , Baddoo Melody , Bayly Erica
Published: August 2005

We used serial analysis of gene expression to catalog the transcriptome of murine mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) enriched from bone marrow by immunodepletion. Interrogation of this database, results of which are delineated in the appended databases, revealed that immunodepleted murine MSCs (IDmMSCs) highly express transcripts encoding connective tissue proteins and factors modulating T-cell proliferation, inflammation, and bone turnover. Categorizing the transcriptome based on gene ontologies revealed the cells also expressed mRNAs encoding proteins that regulate mesoderm development or that are characteristic of determined mesenchymal cell lineages, thereby reflecting both their stem cell nature and differentiation potential. Additionally, IDmMSCs also expressed transcripts encoding proteins regulating angiogenesis, cell motility and communication, hematopoiesis, immunity and defense as well as neural activities. Immunostaining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis revealed that expression of various regulatory proteins was restricted to distinct subpopulations of IDmMSCs. Moreover, in some cases, these proteins were absent or expressed at reduced levels in other murine MSC preparations or cell lines. Lastly, by comparing their transcriptome to that of 17 other murine cell types, we also identified 43 IDmMSC-specific transcripts, the nature of which reflects their varied functions in bone and marrow. Collectively, these results demonstrate that IDmMSC express a diverse repertoire of regulatory proteins, which likely accounts for their demonstrated efficacy in treating a wide variety of diseases. The restricted expression pattern of these proteins within populations suggests that the cellular composition of marrow stroma and its associated functions are more complex than previously envisioned.
Bone Marrow Lacks a Transplantable Progenitor for Smooth Muscle Type α-Actin–Expressing Cells
Authors: Yokota Takafumi , Kawakami Yutaka , Nagai Yoshinori , Ma Jian-xing , Tsai Jen-Yue , Kincade Paul W. , Sato Sanai
Published: August 2005

While some studies have suggested that hematopoietic stem cells might give rise to other tissue types, others indicate that transdifferentiation would have to be an extremely rare event. We have now exploited smooth muscle type α-actin (αSMA) promoter– driven green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic mice (αSMA-GFP mice) for bone marrow transplantation to evaluate their potential to generate donor-type tissues in irradiation chimeras. There was a highly restricted pattern of GFP expression in the transgenic mice, marking bone marrow stromal cells and mesangial cells in the kidney. However, these characteristics were not transferable to wild-type animals given transgenic marrow cells even though hematopoietic cells were largely replaced. Our findings support earlier studies suggesting that the bone marrow microenvironment is difficult to transplant and indicate that hematopoietic stem cells are unlikely to give rise to αSMA-expressing progeny.
Motor Neuron Degeneration Promotes Neural Progenitor Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Neurogenesis in the Spinal Cords of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Mice
Authors: Chi Liying , Ke Yan , Luo Chun , Li Baolin , Gozal David , Kalyanaraman Balaraman , Liu Rugao
Published: August 2005

The organization, distribution, and function of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in the adult spinal cord during motor neuron degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remain largely unknown. Using nestin promoter–controlled LacZ reporter transgenic mice and mutant G93A-SOD1 transgenic mice mimicking ALS, we showed that there was an increase of NPC proliferation, migration, and neurogenesis in the lumbar region of adult spinal cord in response to motor neuron degeneration. The proliferation of NPCs detected by bromodeoxyurindine incorporation and LacZ staining was restricted to the ependymal zone surrounding the central canal (EZ). Once the NPCs moved out from the EZ, they lost the proliferative capability but maintained migratory function vigorously. During ALS-like disease onset and progression, NPCs in the EZ migrated initially toward the dorsal horn direction and then to the ventral horn regions, where motor neurons have degenerated. More significantly, there was an increased de novo neurogenesis from NPCs during ALS-like disease onset and progression. The enhanced proliferation, migration, and neurogenesis of (from) NPCs in the adult spinal cord of ALS-like mice may play an important role in attempting to repair the degenerated motor neurons and restore the dysfunctional circuitry which resulted from the pathogenesis of mutant SOD1 in ALS.
NPC1 Gene Deficiency Leads to Lack of Neural Stem Cell Self-Renewal and Abnormal Differentiation Through Activation of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling
Authors: Yang Se-Ran , Kim Sun-Jung , Byun Kyoung-Hee , Hutchinson Brian , Lee Bong-Hee , Michikawa Makoto , Lee Yong-Soon , Kang Kyung-Sun
Published: August 2005

Neural stem cells (NSCs) are capable of giving rise to neurons, glia, and astrocytes. Although self-renewal and differentiation in NSCs are regulated by many genes, such as Notch and Numb, little is known about the role of defective genes on the self-renewal and differentiation of NSCs from developing brain. The Niemann-Pick type C1 (NPC1) disease is a neurodegenerative disease caused by a mutation of the NPC1 gene that affects the function of the NPC1 protein. The ability of NSC self-renewal and differentiation was investigated using a model of NPC1 disease. The NPC1 disorder significantly affected the self-renewal ability of NSCs, as well as the differentiation. NSCs from NPC1−/− mice showed impaired self-renewal ability compared with the NPC1+/+ mice. These alterations were accompanied by the enhanced activity of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Further, the specific p38 MAPK inhibitor SB202190 improved the self-renewal ability of NSCs from NPC−/− mice. This indicated that the NPC1 deficiency can lead to lack of self-renewal and altered differentiation of NSCs mediated by the activation of p38 MAPK, impairing the generation of neurospheres from NPC1−/− Thus, the NPC1 gene may play a crucial role in NSC self-renewal associated with p38 MAPK.
Porous poly(vinylidene fluoride) membrane with highly hydrophobic surface
Authors: Peng Mao , Li Hongbing , Wu Lijuan , Zheng Qiang , Chen Ying , Gu Wenfang
Published: August 2005

The preparation of very hydrophobic poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes was explored by using two methods. The first one was the modified phase inversion method using a water/N,N‐dimethylacetamide (DMAc) mixture instead of pure water as a soft precipitation bath. The second method was a precipitation‐bath free method, that is, the PVDF/DMAc casting solution underwent gelation in the open air instead of being immersed into a precipitation bath. The morphology of the surface and cross section of the membranes was investigated by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that the membranes exhibited certain micro‐ and nanoscale hierarchical roughness on the surface, which brought about an enhanced hydrophobicity of the membrane. The contact angle (CA) of the samples obtained by the second method was as high as 150° with water. The conventional phase inversion method preparing PVDF porous membrane using pure water as precipitation bath usually results in an asymmetric membrane with a dense skin layer having a CA close to that of a smooth PVDF surface. The modified approach avoided the formation of a skin‐layer and resulted in a porous and highly hydrophobic surface of PVDF. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 1358–1363, 2005
Impure carbon nanotubes as reinforcements for acrylated epoxidized soy oil composites
Authors: Thielemans Wim , McAninch Ian M. , Barron Valerie , Blau Werner J. , Wool Richard P.
Published: August 2005

Stable dispersions of impure multiwall carbon nanotubes (multiwall carbon nanotubes and carbon soot) in an acrylated epoxidized soy oil (AESO) based thermosetting resin were obtained by mechanical stirring. The required stirring time increased with an increasing amount of carbon nanotubes. Thermogravimetric analysis of the polymerized samples showed some loss of multiwall carbon nanotubes due to sedimentation. The mechanical properties of the polymerized samples improved significantly (the modulus increased by 30%) for 0.28 wt % dispersed multiwall carbon nanotubes. Higher multiwall carbon nanotube loads resulted in significant aggregation during polymerization. The mechanical properties were compared with existing models for nanocomposites. Wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, optical microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy demonstrated the formation of aggregates at higher multiwall carbon nanotube loads, which reversed the potential for mechanical improvement. Because of the stability of the original dispersion, the aggregates were believed to form during polymerization. This aggregation was magnified by the carbon soot, so only small amounts of impure multiwall carbon nanotubes could be used as reinforcements. Transmission electron micrographs showed good adhesion of the polymer matrix to the nanotubes upon the rupture of the polymer matrix. AESO was believed to act as a solubilizing surfactant, in line with previously published results. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 1325–1338, 2005
Morphological evidence of sensory neurons in the root of the rat tongue
Authors: Fehér Erzsébet , Batbayar Bayarchimeg , Zelles Tivadar
Published: August 2005

In our previous studies, a large number of substance P (SP)‐immunoreactive (IR) nerve fibers were detected in the rat tongue and their number increased after inflammation, suggesting that these fibers might be involved in the axon reflex. Therefore, in this study, we have examined the different neuropeptide‐containing nerve elements by light, electron, and confocal laser microscopy. SP, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), and neuropeptide Y (NPY) IR varicose fibers were numerous compared with other ones. Small groups of ganglia with perikarya IR for SP, VIP, NPY, galanin, and somatostatin were observed. The SP‐IR nerve cell bodies were mainly located in the tunica propria just below the epithelial lining. Double‐labeling immunohistochemistry showed that the intrinsic SP‐IR neurons did not colocalize VIP. The SP containing nerve terminals were observed in and below the epithelium as well as in very close contact to or making real synapses with other neurons in the intralingual ganglion. Our data confirmed the possibility of intrinsic sensory neurons, which might be the afferent branch of the intralingual reflex arch, while the VIP‐ and NPY‐IR neurons located in the salivary glands, around the blood vessels, and in the muscle layer might constitute the efferent site of this reflex. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Compressibility changes accompanying conformational transitions of apomyoglobin
Authors: Taulier Nicolas , Beletskaya Irina V. , Chalikian Tigran V.
Published: August 2005

We used high‐precision density and ultrasonic velocity measurements to characterize the native (N), molten globule (MG), and unfolded (U) conformations of apomyoglobin. The molten globule states that were studied in this work include the MGpH4(NaCl) state observed at pH 4 and 20 mM NaCl, the MGpH4(NaTCA) state observed at pH 4 and 20 mM sodium trichloracetate (NaTCA), the MGpH2(NaCl) state observed at pH 2 and 200 mM NaCl, and the MGpH2(NaTCA) state observed at pH 2 and 20 mM NaTCA. We used our densimetric and acoustic data to evaluate changes in adiabatic compressibility associated with the acid‐ or salt‐induced N‐to‐MG, MG‐to‐U, MG‐to‐MG, and U‐to‐MG transitions of the protein. The N‐to‐MGpH4(NaCl) and N‐to‐MGpH4(NaTCA) transitions are accompanied by decreases in compressibility of −(3.0 ± 0.6) × 10−6 and −(2.0 ± 0.6) × 10−6 cm3 g−1bar−1, respectively. The N‐to‐MGpH2(NaCl) and N‐to‐MGpH2(NaTCA) transitions are associated with compressibility changes of −(4.9 ± 1.1) × 10−6 and (0.7 ± 0.9) × 10−6 cm3 g−1 bar−1, respectively. We interpret these data in terms of the degree of unfolding of the various molten globule forms of apomyoglobin. In general, our compressibility data reveal significant disparities between the various equilibrium molten globule states of apomyoglobin while also quantitatively characterizing each of these states. Volumetric insights provided by our data facilitate gaining a better understanding of the folding pathways, intermediates, and kinetics of apomyoglobin folding. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 79: 218–229, 2005

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Oxidative Electrochemical Switching in Dithienylcyclopentenes, Part 2: Effect of Substitution and Asymmetry on the Efficiency and Direction of Molecular Switching and Redox Stability
Authors: Browne Wesley R. , de Jong Jaap J. D. , Kudernac Tibor , Walko Martin , Lucas Linda N. , Uchida Kingo , van Esch Jan H. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: August 2005

The electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical properties of a series of C5‐substituted dithienylhexahydro‐ and dithienylhexafluorocyclopentenes are reported. The effect of substitution at C5 of the thienyl moiety on the redox properties is quite dramatic, in contrast to the effect on their photochemical properties. The efficiency of electrochemical switching is dependent both on the central cyclopentene unit and on the nature of the substituents, whereby electron‐donating moieties favour oxidative electrochemical ring‐closure and vice versa. Asymmetrically substituted dithienylcyclopentenes were investigated to explore the ring‐closure process in more detail. The results indicate that electrochemically induced ring‐closure occurs via the monocation of the open form. In the presence of electroactive groups at C5 of the thienyl ring (e.g., methoxyphenyl) initial oxidation of these groups is followed by intermolecular electron transfer, which drives ring‐closure of the open forms.
A review of empirical research supporting four conceptual uses of dreams in psychotherapy
Authors: Eudell‐Simmons Erin M. , Hilsenroth Mark J.
Published: August 2005

The present review consists of a re‐conceptualization of the existing empirical literature regarding the use of dreams in psychotherapy into four potential contributions. These four contributions of dreams to psychotherapy are discussed as being particularly relevant for clinicians in applied practice to (I) facilitate the therapeutic process, (II) facilitate patient insight and self‐awareness, (III) provide clinically relevant and valuable information to therapists and (IV) provide a measure of therapeutic change. The present review is distinctive in that it emphasizes the pertinence of research regarding dream use to applied clinical practice and it includes previously unreviewed research regarding dreams in psychotherapy on these four specific ways dreams can be useful within the therapeutic process. In addition, this review includes a section discussing the under‐researched and largely neglected potential for dreams to provide accurate and efficient information to therapists. Limitations of the research as well as future directions are presented. The generally positive findings of this research suggest that dreams can be considered an alternative type of clinical material that can be useful in psychotherapy. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The simulation heuristic and visual imagery in pessimism for future negative events in anxiety
Authors: Raune David , MacLeod Andrew , Holmes Emily A.
Published: August 2005

A salient feature of clinical anxiety and its disorders is an elevated subjective probability judgement that future negative events will happen to the individual. A neglected area of research is the cognitive mechanisms that might underlie this judgement in patient populations. First, we investigated the ease of being able to simulate imaginary negative events happening to the individual (‘the simulation heuristic’). Second, we conducted the first investigation to our knowledge into the possible role of visual imagery characteristics on subjective probability for negative events. Twenty‐six patients who had a clinical level of anxiety and 26 low‐anxiety control participants simulated mentally and also formed visual images of future negative events. They then rated the likelihood of the events happening to them. As predicted, with anxious patients the simulation heuristic was correlated with subjective probability, and they reported increased access to their simulations compared to control participants. The visual image results were more complex: anxious patients' ease of image formation was correlated with subjective probability but did not differ from that of the control participants, and vividness and dismissibility were enhanced in anxious patients but did not correlate with subjective probability. Clinically, helping anxious patients to improve their access to simulations of why events will not happen may help lower their subjective probability. Future research could seek to confirm this experimentally in a clinical intervention study, as well as isolate further the different roles particular visual image characteristics may play in specific aspects of clinical anxiety. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel Pyrazines from the Myxobacterium Chondromyces crocatus and Marine Bacteria
Authors: Dickschat Jeroen S. , Reichenbach Hans , Wagner‐Döbler Irene , Schulz Stefan
Published: August 2005

The volatiles released by two strains of the myxobacterium Chondromyces crocatus and seven strains of marine Alphaproteobacteria from the North Sea were collected using the CLSA or SPME headspace methods and analysed by GC‐MS. In the extracts of C. crocatus 27 pyrazines were identified, belonging to different classes. 2,5‐Dialkylpyrazines and related 3‐methoxy‐2,5‐dialkylpyrazines dominated. Several pyrazines like 2‐(1‐methylethenyl)‐5‐(1‐methylethyl)pyrazine (7) and 3‐methoxy‐2,5‐dialkylpyrazines with methyl, isopropyl, isobutyl or sec‐butyl side‐chains were obtained from natural sources for the first time. It was essential for the identification to rely on synthetic reference materials, which were obtained using Fürstner’s iron‐catalysed coupling of chloropyrazines with Grignard reagents or condensation of azido ketones as key steps. The synthetic material allowed the identification of two previously unknown attractants of bacterial origin for the pineapple beetle Carpophilus humeralis, namely 3‐methoxy‐2‐(1‐methylpropyl)‐5‐(2‐methylpropyl)pyrazine (17) and 3‐methoxy‐2,5‐bis(1‐methylpropyl)pyrazine (52). Several 2,5‐dialkylpyrazines were identified in the extracts of the marine Alphaproteobacteria. The unique 2,5‐dimethyl‐3‐(methylsulfanyl)pyrazine (67) represents a new type of natural pyrazine. Our results, together with literature reports, show that pyrazines are an important class of bacterial volatiles which might be more widespread than previously thought. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)
Generation of a conditionally null allele of the laminin α1 gene
Authors: Alpy F. , Jivkov I. , Sorokin L. , Klein A. , Arnold C. , Huss Y. , Kedinger M. , Simon‐Assmann P. , Lefebvre O.
Published: August 2005

Laminins are heterotrimeric glycoproteins of the basement membranes. Laminin 1 (α1, β1, γ1) is the major laminin expressed during early mouse embryogenesis. To gain access to the physiological function of laminin α1 chain, we developed a conditionally null allele of its encoding gene (Lama1) using the cre/loxP system. Floxed‐allele‐carrying mice (Lama1flox/flox) display no overt phenotype. Lama1flox/flox mice were crossed with transgenic deleter mice (CMV‐Cre) to generate Lama1‐deficient mice (Lama1Δ/Δ). Lama1Δ/Δ embryos die during the early postimplantation period after embryonic day 6.5. They lack Reichert's membrane, an extraembryonic basement membrane in which laminin α1 is normally highly expressed. In parallel, Lama1Δ/Δ embryos display 1) parietal and visceral endoderm differentiation defects with altered expression of cytokeratin 19 and GATA4, respectively, and 2) an induction of apoptosis. This new mouse model is of particular interest as it will allow time‐ and tissue‐specific inactivation of the Lama1 gene in various organs. genesis 43:59–70, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Noninvasive visualization of molecular events in the mammalian zygote
Authors: Yamagata Kazuo , Yamazaki Taiga , Yamashita Misuzu , Hara Yuki , Ogonuki Narumi , Ogura Atsuo
Published: August 2005

Following fertilization, a number of molecular events are triggered in the mammalian zygote. As biochemical studies using mammalian gametes and zygotes have inherent difficulties, the molecular nature of these processes is currently unclear. We have developed a method to visualize these events. In vitro transcribed mRNAs encoding for proteins fused with green fluorescent protein were microinjected into oocytes or embryos and fluorescence signals were observed. Using this technique we succeeded in obtaining images of the DNA methylation status in living mouse and rabbit embryos. Moreover, time‐lapse images were acquired of spindle and nuclear formation during second meiosis and first mitosis. Importantly, the microinjected embryos developed to the normal offspring even after observation, suggesting that the technique is relatively noninvasive. Thus, our method may help elucidate the molecular aspects of fertilization and preimplantation development and, based on the real‐time genetic and epigenetic status, could become a tool to select “good quality” embryos before implantation. genesis 43:71–79, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Physical characterization of different‐roughness titanium surfaces, with and without hydroxyapatite coating, and their effect on human osteoblast‐like cells
Authors: Borsari Veronica , Giavaresi Gianluca , Fini Milena , Torricelli Paola , Salito Armando , Chiesa Roberto , Chiusoli Loris , Volpert Andreas , Rimondini Lia , Giardino Roberto
Published: August 2005

The aim of this study was to characterize and compare various titanium (Ti) and hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings on Ti6Al4V, in view of their application on noncemented orthopedic implants. Two innovative vacuum plasma sprayed (VPS) coatings, the first of ultrahigh rough and dense Ti (PG60, Ra = 74 μm) and the second of ultrahigh rough and dense Ti coated with HA (HPG60, Ra = 52 μm), have been developed, and the response of osteoblast‐like cells (MG‐63) seeded on these new coatings was evaluated in comparison to: a low roughness and sandblasted (Ti/SA, Ra = 4μm) Ti6Al4V surface; Ti medium (TI01, Ra = 18 μm), and high (TI60, Ra = 40μm) roughness VPS coatings; and the relative Ti plus HA duplex coatings (HT01, Ra = 12 μm and HT60, Ra = 36 μm respectively), also obtained by VPS. PG60 coating presented no open porosity, making it dense and potentially intrinsically stronger. Cell adhesion and proliferation on PG60 was similar to those of the smoothest one (Ti/SA) and adhesion on ultrahigh roughness was lower than the medium‐ and high‐roughness coatings, whereas cell proliferation on PG60 was lower than TI60. The HA coating determined significant increases in cell proliferation at medium and high roughness levels when compared to the relative Ti coating, but not compared to the ultrahigh one; all HA‐coated surfaces showed a decrease in alkaline phosphatase activity and collagen I production. Surface morphology and the HA coating strongly affected cell behavior. However, ultrahigh values of roughness are not correctly seen by cells, and the presence of HA has no improving effects. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2005
Binding of Adenosine to Pendant Phenylboronate Groups of Thermoresponsive Copolymer: a Quantitative Study
Authors: Ivanov Alexander E. , Galaev Igor Yu. , Mattiasson Bo
Published: August 2005

Summary: Binding of adenosine to the thermosensitive copolymer of N‐isopropylacrylamide and 3‐(acrylamido)aminophenylboronic acid (82:18, $\overline M _{\rm n}$ = 47 000 g · mol−1) was studied by equilibrium dialysis at 22 °C and 37 °C, in a 0.1 M glycine buffer containing 0.1 M NaCl at pH 9.2. The copolymer exhibited a the phase transition temperature (Tp) of 26.5 °C under the above conditions. At 22 °C the binding of adenosine to the water‐soluble copolymer was well described by a Langmuir model, accounting for preferential ionisation of the boronate‐nucleoside complexes and, therefore, restricted reactivity of the rest of boronates. At saturation, the copolymer contained 38% of its phenylboronic acid groups in the form of complexes, whereas the association constant was 1 400 M−1. At 37 °C no binding of adenosine to thermally precipitated copolymer was found, presumably owing to interaction of the phenylboronates with hydrophobic segments of polyNIPAM. At high loading of the copolymer by the reversibly bound adenosine the Tp steeply increases with increasing fraction of the phenylboronate‐adenosine complexes in the chains. The increase of the Tp observed above the saturating adenosine concentration (>1 × 10−3 M, 22 °C) very probably testifies to competition of the nucleoside with hydrophobic polyNIPAM segments for binding to the pendant phenylboronates.

Scheme of the specific complex formation between adenosine and the pendent boronate groups of AAPBA‐NIPAM copolymer.

magnified image

Scheme of the specific complex formation between adenosine and the pendent boronate groups of AAPBA‐NIPAM copolymer.
Synthesis and characterization of thiophene functionalized polystyrene copolymers and their electrochemical properties
Authors: Sahin Elif , Camurlu Pinar , Toppare Levent , Mercore Viorela M , Cianga Ioan , Yagci Yusuf
Published: August 2005

Thiophene functionalized polystyrene samples (TFPS) were synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of styrene, followed by Suzuki coupling with 3‐thiophene (Th) boronic acid. Conducting graft polymer of TFPS with thiophene was achieved at 1.5 V in tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate/dichloromethane (TBAFB/DM) by electrochemical methods. Spectroelectrochemical analysis of the resulting copolymers [P(TFPS‐co‐Th)] reflected electronic transitions at 449, 721 and 880 nm, revealing π − π* transition, polaron and bipolaron band formation, respectively. We also successfully established the utilization of dual type complementary colored polymer electrochromic devices using P(TFPS‐co‐Th)/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT) in sandwich configuration. The switching ability, stability and optical memory of the electrochromic device were investigated by UV–visible spectrophotometry and cyclic voltammetry. Device switches between brown and blue color with a switching time of 1.3 s were prepared with optical contrast (%ΔT) of 25 %. Copyright © 2005 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis and characterization of thermally stable sulfonated polybenzimidazoles obtained from 3,3′‐disulfonyl‐4,4′‐dicarboxyldiphenylsulfone
Authors: Qing Shengbo , Huang Wei , Yan Deyue
Published: August 2005

A novel sulfonated aromatic diacid, 3,3′‐disulfonyl‐4,4′‐dicarboxyldiphenylsulfone (DSDCDPS), was successfully synthesized from 4,4′‐dimethyldiphenylsulfone by sulfonation and further oxidation. A series of sulfonated polybenzimidazoles (sPBI‐SS) with various sulfonation degrees was prepared from DSDCDPS, 4,4′‐sulfonyldibenzoic acid and 3,3′‐diaminobenzidine by solution copolycondensation in poly(phosphoric acid). The chemical structure of the resulting sPBI‐SS was confirmed by FTIR and 1H NMR. The DSDCDPS‐based sPBI‐SS with the number‐average molecular weights of 32,000–55,000 were easy to dissolve in polar aprotic solvents such as DMF, DMSO, and DMAc, and could be cast into transparent, tough, and flexible membranes. The membranes presented good thermal stabilities (5% weight loss temperatures higher than 430 °C), and the thermal degradation activation energies of the sulfonic group of sPBI‐SS40 evaluated under N2 by both Ozawa and Kissinger methods were 266.06 and 264.79 kJ/mol, respectively. The membranes also exhibited high storage moduli, glass transition temperatures (above 238 °C) and tensile strengths (∼80 MPa), in addition to water uptakes (22.3–25.2%) and low swelling degrees (<14.0%). © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 43: 4363–4372, 2005
Synthesis and properties of polyimide ionomers containing sulfoalkoxy and fluorenyl groups
Authors: Yasuda Tomohiro , Miyatake Kenji , Hirai Michiko , Nanasawa Masato , Watanabe Masahiro
Published: August 2005

A series of sulfopropylated and sulfobutylated polyimide copolymers containing fluorenyl groups, SPI‐4, were synthesized to investigate the effect of alkyl side chains on the properties (stability, mechanical strength, water uptake, and proton conductivity) of the polymimide electrolyte membranes. SPI‐4 showed much better hydrolytic stability (in 10% MeOH aq at 100 °C) than the main chain sulfonated polyimide, SPI‐1. Tough, flexible, and ductile membranes were obtained from these copolymers. At high relative humidity all the SPI‐4 membranes showed high mechanical properties (>34 MPa of the maximum stress) and proton conductivity (>0.1 Scm−1). These properties are comparable to or even better than those of the perfluorosulfonic acid ionomer (Nafion 112). The new polyimide ionomers have proved to be a possible candidate as polymer electrolyte membrane for PEFCs and DMFCs. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4439–4445, 2005
Star‐shaped polystyrenes with glycoconjugated periphery and interior: Synthesis and entrapment of hydrophilic molecule
Authors: Narumi Atsushi , Yamane Shin , Miura Yutaka , Kaga Harumi , Satoh Toshifumi , Kakuchi Toyoji
Published: August 2005

Star‐shaped polystyrenes with acetyl glucose in the periphery and interior were synthesized via two‐steps, 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl (TEMPO)‐mediated living radical polymerizations. In the first step, styrene (St) was polymerized with 4‐[1′‐(2″,2″,6″,6″‐tetramethyl‐1″‐piperidinyloxy)ethyl]phenyl 2,3,4,6‐tetra‐O‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, 1, at 120 °C to afford a TEMPO‐terminated polystyrene with acetyl glucose in the chain‐end, arm‐polymer 2. Similarly, St was polymerized with 1‐phenyl‐1‐(2′,2′,6′,6′‐tetramethyl‐1′‐piperidinyloxy)ethane, 3, to obtain a TEMPO‐terminated polystyrene, arm‐polymer 4. In the second step, the coupling reaction of arm‐polymer 2 was performed using divinylbenzene (DVB) as a linking agent in m‐xylene at 138 °C, giving a star‐shaped polystyrene with acetyl glucose in the periphery, 5. The coupling reaction of arm‐polymer 4 with DVB was carried out in the presence of 1, which produced a star‐shaped polystyrene with acetyl glucose in the interior, 6. Dynamic laser light scattering (DLS) measurements indicated that 5 and 6 existed as the particles in toluene with the average diameters ranging from 12–40 nm. The numbers of the arm (Narm) were 12–23 and 6–64 for 5 and 6, respectively, which were determined by their isolated yields and static laser light scattering (SLS) measurements. The numbers of the acetyl glucose units (N1) were 12–23 and 9–104 for 5 and 6, respectively, which were determined from specific rotation ([α]365). Finally, 5 and 6 were modified by deacetylation using sodium methoxide, producing star‐shaped polystyrenes with glucose in the periphery and interior, 7 and 8, respectively. The final architectures were found to entrap a hydrophilic molecule at their glycoconjugated periphery or interior in good solvents for polystyrene such as chloroform. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4373–4381, 2005
Water‐soluble poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(p‐phenylene vinylene) copolymer: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Bianchi Catherine , Grassl Bruno , François Bernard , Dagron‐Lartigau Christine
Published: August 2005

Water‐soluble and photoluminescent block copolymers [poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(p‐phenylene vinylene) (PEO‐b‐PPV)] were synthesized, in two steps, by the addition of α‐halo‐α′‐alkylsulfinyl‐p‐xylene from activated poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chains in tetrahydrofuran at 25 °C. This copolymerization, which was derived from the Vanderzande poly(p‐phenylene vinylene) (PPV) synthesis, led to partly converted PEO‐b‐PPV block copolymers mixed with unreacted PEO chains. The yield, length, and composition of these added sequences depended on the experimental conditions, namely, the order of reagent addition, the nature of the monomers, and the addition of an extra base. The addition of lithium tert‐butoxide increased the length of the PPV precursor sequence and reduced spontaneous conversion. The conversion into PPV could be achieved in a second step by a thermal treatment. A spectral analysis of the reactive medium and the composition of the resulting polymers revealed new evidence for an anionic mechanism of the copolymerization process under our experimental conditions. Moreover, the photoluminescence yields were strongly dependant on the conjugation length and on the solvent, with a maximum (70%) in tetrahydrofuran and a minimum (<1%) in water. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4337–4350, 2005
A novel cyclic dithiocarbonate having siloxane moiety; Approach to curable siloxane oligomer
Authors: Uenishi Kazuya , Sudo Atsushi , Endo Takeshi
Published: August 2005

A novel 5‐membered cyclic dithiocarbonate (DTC) having a siloxane moiety, 5‐(3‐trimethoxysilylpropyloxymethyl)‐1,3‐oxathiolane‐2‐thione, was synthesized from the corresponding epoxide precursor by its cycloaddition with carbon disulfide. The siloxane group underwent condensation reaction by the treatment with water and a basic or acidic catalyst, to afford the corresponding oligomer having siloxane main chain and DTC pendant. The resulting oligomer was liquid and soluble in organic solvents such as THF and chloroform. Treatment of the oligomer with amines resulted in selective ring‐opening reaction of the DTC group, generating a thiol group, which underwent oxidative coupling reaction to make the oligomer successfully cured. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 43: 4422–4430, 2005
Communication and decision‐making about seeking inherited cancer risk information: findings from female survivor‐relative focus groups
Authors: Mellon Suzanne , Berry‐Bobovski Lisa , Gold Robin , Levin Nancy , Tainsky Michael A.
Published: August 2005

Dramatic advances in cancer genetics and identification of germline mutations in cancer genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 have led to new options in genetic risk assessment for families with histories of breast and ovarian cancer. However, little research has been carried out with individuals and their families regarding how cancer risk information is communicated within families and factors that may affect individuals and family members making informed decisions about their health. This study explored participants' knowledge of cancer risk, their perceptions and concerns regarding inherited cancer risk information, family communication patterns, and factors that may affect their decision to learn about inherited cancer risk in their families. Nine focus groups of family dyads were conducted (N=39) consisting of breast or ovarian cancer patients and close female relatives. All transcribed interviews were analyzed using qualitative software. Key findings showed diversity in how families communicated and made decisions about their health, persistent worry for their families, lack of knowledge about inherited cancer, vigilance in watching their health, and barriers present in communicating about genetic risk. Results from this study support inclusion of family members in addressing inherited cancer risk information and contextual family factors critical to consider in potentially high risk families. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical activity among breast cancer survivors: regular exercisers vs participants in a physical activity intervention
Authors: Rabin Carolyn S. , Pinto Bernardine M. , Trunzo Joseph J. , Frierson Georita M. , Bucknam Lynn M.
Published: August 2005

Background: Secondary prevention is of great importance in the cancer survivor population, given the substantial medical risks survivors face. Consequently, researchers have begun developing interventions that target behavioral risk factors, such as sedentary lifestyle, among survivors. This study represents a novel approach for evaluating the efficacy of a physical activity intervention for breast cancer survivors.

Methods: Repeated measures analyses were used to compare a group of previously sedentary breast cancer survivors offered a physical activity intervention (n=43) with a group of regularly active survivors (n=40). These two groups were compared on select behavioral and psychosocial measures associated with physical activity.

Results: Results indicated significant time × group effects on the following: behavioral processes of change, minutes of moderate‐intensity activity/week, and time to complete the one‐mile walk test (a measure of fitness). There was also a borderline significant interaction for self‐efficacy. Contrasts indicated that, for each interaction, previously sedentary and regularly active survivors differed at baseline, but were not significantly different postintervention.

Conclusions: Thus, after completing a 12‐week physical activity intervention, previously sedentary breast cancer survivors became similar to regularly active survivors on select behavioral and psychosocial measures associated with physical activity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differences in patterns of depression after treatment for breast cancer
Authors: Deshields Teresa , Tibbs Tiffany , Fan Ming‐Yu , Taylor Marie
Published: August 2005

Depression is a significant problem for some breast cancer survivors after the end of treatment. This study assessed depression using the CES‐D for 84 breast cancer patients at the conclusion of radiation treatment, and at 3 and 6 months post‐treatment. Based on the pattern of CES‐D scores, patients were divided into five groups: (1) Stay Depressed (scores above clinical cutoff for depression at all timepoints); (2) Recover (above threshold at baseline, but below at follow‐up); (3) Become Depressed (below threshold at baseline, but above at follow‐up); (4) Never Depressed (below threshold at all times); and (5) Vacillate (none of the above patterns). This study examined the relationships between depression groups and a variety of medical, demographic, and psychological measures, including anxiety and quality of life (QOL). Number of children at home significantly distinguished the groups, with the Become Depressed group having more children and the Vacillate group having fewer children. Anxiety levels were different among the groups, with Recover and Never Depressed groups having consistently lower anxiety scores. QOL scores also distinguished the groups in that Never Depressed patients demonstrated better QOL than all other groups. The findings have implications for understanding resilience in cancer patients. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermodynamic theory for efficiency of multiple impurity‐atom doping in diamond
Authors: Miyazaki Takehide , Yamasaki Satoshi
Published: August 2005

We present a simple thermodynamic theory to assess the efficiency of formation of impurity‐atom complexes with various sizes in diamond at a quasi‐equilibrium state where the binding energy of the complexes is one key to formation energetics. We find that the entropy associated with distribution of the complexes in a host crystal is another key factor which competes with the binding energy to gain the free energy. If the variation in the size of the complexes is large, then the entropy‐driven free‐energy gain by small complexes is remarkable so the larger ones are relatively hard to form. Thus we propose that one should design small and tightly bound complexes in order for their selective growth. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Possibilities of molecule‐based spintoronics of DNA wires, sheets, and related materials
Authors: Kawakami Takashi , Taniguchi Takeshi , Hamamoto Tomohiro , Kitagawa Yasutaka , Okumura Mitsutaka , Yamaguchi Kizashi
Published: August 2005

Our theoretical efforts toward molecule‐based magnetic conductors and superconductors on the basis of ab initio Hamiltonians and effective model Hamiltonians are summarized in relation to recently developed DNA‐based molecular materials. Guanine and adenine derivatives coupling with organic radicals (R) are investigated as possible π–Rcomponents. To elucidate electronic and magnetic properties of these species, effective exchange integrals (Jab) for magnetic clusters are calculated by ab initio hybrid density functional (HDFT) methods. The ab initioJabvalues are numerically reproduced by using model Hamiltonians such as the t‐J, Kondo, Anderson, and RKKY models. The theoretical possibilities of organic magnetic conductors are elucidated on the basis of these models for self‐assembled DNA wires, sheets, and related materials. The use of these materials for nanoscale molecular electronic devices is also elucidated theoretically in relation to an important role of electron–electron repulsion effect for quantum electron transport, together with the electron‐exchange interaction in the Kondo effect. The implications of the calculated results are finally discussed to obtain a unified picture of manyp–d, π–d,andπ–Rmolecule‐based systems with strong electron correlations. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2005
A newly described thoracic vascular malformation in fetuses with Down syndrome
Authors: Prefumo F. , Ierullo A. M. , Fulcheri E. , Venturini P. L. , De Biasio P. , Thilaganathan B.
Published: August 2005

Objectives

To report the association between thoracic vascular malformations observed in the first trimester of pregnancy and Down syndrome.

Methods

The clinical features were reviewed of seven fetuses undergoing chorionic villus sampling (CVS) for increased nuchal translucency (NT) thickness, in which color Doppler ultrasonography revealed a vascular malformation in the fetal thorax.

Results

The crown–rump length of the fetuses ranged from 58 to 78 mm and NT measurements ranged from 2.9 to 10.0 mm. Color Doppler allowed the identification of a highly vascular structure in the posterolateral portion of the fetal thorax, in proximity to the costovertebral angle, at the level of a four‐chamber view of the heart. The lesions had a globular shape and were 4–6 mm in diameter, occupying almost one third of the hemithorax. Down syndrome was diagnosed in five out of the seven cases. In the only affected case that underwent postmortem examination, a hemangioma of the chest wall was demonstrated. In the two fetuses with normal karyotype, the lesion disappeared by mid‐gestation.

Conclusion

We report an association between the prenatal Doppler finding of a vascular tumor in the fetal chest and Down syndrome. Copyright © 2005 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment of complete rectal prolapse: To narrow, to wrap, to suspend, to fix, to encircle, to plicate or to resect?
Authors: Kuijpers Han C.
Published: August 2005

Selection of the best surgical procedure for the treatment of complete rectal prolapse is difficult amid the many different techniques for which excellent results are reported. A critical review is given. It is concluded that any surgical procedure with rectal mobilization and fixation as a standard maneuver will lead to a recurrence rate of 2% to 4%. Advocacy of additional maneuvers to make the procedure easier is acceptable if it does not lead to a higher complication rate. But to obtain a better result its benefit has to be proven, either by a large prospective double‐blind study, or by tests from the colorectal laboratory. New surgical techniques for rectal prolapse should therefore be based, not only on a low recurrence and complication rate, but also on tests that evaluate the effect of the procedure on fecal continence.
Optimal timing of elective indirect inguinal hernia repair in healthy children: Clinical considerations for improved outcome
Authors: Stephens Bryon J. , Rice William T. , Koucky Charles J. , Gruenberg James C.
Published: August 2005

Experience with several incarcerations that resulted in emergent surgery for children with known indirect inguinal hernias prompted this review to determine if there is an optimal time after hernia diagnosis during which elective repair should be undertaken to avoid incarceration. Over a 30 month period, 228 children <10 years of age underwent 303 indirect inguinal hernia repairs. They were analyzed for age, sex, interval between diagnosis and repair, predisposing conditions, major complications, and length of hospitalization. Excluded were 21 children who presented with incarceration of a previously undiagnosed indirect inguinal hernia that required operative reduction, 13 children with conditions predisposing to indirect inguinal hernia, and 53 children for whom the interval between diagnosis and repair was unknown, leaving a study group of 141 children who underwent 190 indirect inguinal hernia repairs. Nearly 13% (18 of 141) of the children developed incarcerated hernia prior to elective repair.

Compared to children who underwent repair of a reducible indirect inguinal hernia, those with incarceration were more likely (p<0.05): 1) to have major complications (11% vs 0.6%), 2) to have a shorter interval between diagnosis and repair (26 vs 49 days), 3) to be younger (7.5 vs 25.6 mos), and 4) to require >24 hours of hospitalization.

Had children with reducible incancerated indirect inguinal hernia been hospitalized and undergone repair 24 to 48 hours later, 83% of subsequent incarcerations would have been prevented. Furthermore, this experience supports the recommendation that for healthy children <10 years of age, indirect inguinal hernia repair should be performed on a semi‐elective basis within 7 days of diagnosis. This would have prevented 92% of the remaining incarcerations, 86% of emergent surgery for children <4 months of age, and all emergent surgery for older children.
Biliary ascariasis: Surgical aspects
Authors: Wani N. A. , Chrungoo R. K.
Published: August 2005

Presentation and management of 204 patients with biliary ascariasis seen over a period of 5 years is reported from a highly endemic area of Kashmir. Ultrasonography is the single most useful means of diagnosis. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is extremely helpful. Most patients respond to conservative management and around one‐fifth of all patients require surgery.