bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Encephalopathy and bilateral cataract in a boy with an interstitial deletion of Xp22 comprising the CDKL5 and NHS genes
Authors: Van Esch Hilde , Jansen Anna , Bauters Marijke , Froyen Guy , Fryns Jean‐Pierre
Published: January 2007

We describe a male patient with a deletion at Xp22, detected by high resolution X‐array CGH. The clinical phenotype present in this infant boy, consists of severe encephalopathy, congenital cataracts and tetralogy of Fallot and can be attributed to the deletion of the genes within the interval. Among these deleted genes are the gene for Nance‐Horan syndrome and the cyclin‐dependent kinase‐like 5 gene (CDKL5), responsible for the early seizure variant of Rett syndrome. This is the first description of a male patient with a deletion of these genes, showing the involvement of CDKL5 in severe epileptic encephalopathy in males. Moreover it illustrates the added value of high resolution array‐CGH in molecular diagnosis of mental retardation‐multiple congenital anomaly cases. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two cases further delineating the Sakoda complex
Authors: Dempsey Melissa A. , Torres‐Martinez Wilfredo , Walsh Laurence E.
Published: January 2007

Sakoda complex consists of sphenoethmoidal encephalomeningocele, agenesis of the corpus callosum, and cleft lip and/or palate. Associated abnormalities include optic disc dysplasia, microphthalmia, cortical dysgenesis, mental retardation and epilepsy. The etiology remains unknown. We describe two patients with anomalies consistent with the Sakoda complex including the cardinal features of sphenoethmoidal encephalomeningocele and cleft palate. The first patient also has right microphthalmia, optic nerve hypoplasia, diffuse pachygyria, asymmetric ventricles, atrial septal defect, hemivertebrae, and renal abnormalities. The second patient has right microphthalmia, absence of the right hemisphere, and a right bifid thumb. The features of Sakoda complex present in these patients may also overlap with frontonasal dysplasia and morning glory syndrome suggesting shared pathogenic relationships. We propose that the primary malformation of the Sakoda complex is probably genetic. The right hemispheric defect in Patient 2 suggests that at least some cases of Sakoda complex may also be associated with vascular disruption. Thus, more than one pathogenetic process contributes to the phenotypic spectrum of Sakoda complex. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Duplication 18q21.31‐q22.2
Authors: Ceccarini Caterina , Sinibaldi Lorenzo , Bernardini Laura , De Simone Roberto , Mingarelli Rita , Novelli Antonio , Dallapiccola Bruno
Published: January 2007

We report on three siblings with mild mental retardation and minor dysmorphic features carrying an interstitial duplication of the long arm of chromosome 18 inherited from a healthy mosaic carrier mother. The duplicated region spanned between 18q21.31 and 18q22.2 for about 12 Mb. The distal duplications of 18q are rare and only a small number of subjects, manifesting quite different clinical outcomes, have been described. However, in most of these cases, molecular characterization was not available. We have reviewed nine patients, including three familial cases, displaying overlapping duplicated regions, and compared them with the present individuals in an attempt to delineate karyotype–phenotype correlation. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical characterization of autosomal dominant and recessive variants of Robinow syndrome
Authors: Mazzeu Juliana Forte , Pardono Eliete , Vianna‐Morgante Angela M. , Richieri‐Costa Antônio , Ae Kim Chong , Brunoni Décio , Martelli Lúcia , de Andrade Carlos Eugênio F. , Colin Guilherme , Otto Paulo A.
Published: January 2007

Robinow syndrome is a genetically heterogeneous condition characterized by mesomelic limb shortening associated with facial and genital anomalies that can be inherited in an autosomal dominant or recessive mode. We characterized these two variants clinically, with the aim of establishing clinical criteria to enhance the differential diagnosis between them or other similar conditions. The frequencies of clinical signs considered important for the discrimination of the dominant or recessive variants were estimated in a sample consisting of 38 patients personally examined by the authors and of 50 affected subjects from the literature. Using the presence of rib fusions as diagnostic of the recessive variant, and also based on the inheritance pattern in familial cases, we classified 37 patients as having the recessive form and other 51 as having the dominant form. The clinical signs present in more than 75% of patients with either form, and therefore the most important for the characterization of this syndrome were hypertelorism, nasal features (large nasal bridge, short upturned nose, and anteverted nares), midface hypoplasia, mesomelic limb shortening, brachydactyly, clinodactyly, micropenis, and short stature. Hemivertebrae and scoliosis were present in more than 75% of patients with the recessive form, but in less than 25% of patients with the dominant form. Umbilical hernia (32.3%) and supernumerary teeth (10.3%) were found exclusively in patients with the dominant form. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pulmonary manifestations of Fabry disease and positive response to enzyme replacement therapy
Authors: Kim Woojin , Pyeritz Reed E. , Bernhardt Barbara A. , Casey Michael , Litt Harold I.
Published: January 2007

Fabry disease affects multiple organs, including the lungs. To date, there have been no reports of the effect of enzyme replacement therapy on patients with pulmonary manifestations of the disease. We report on a case of marked improvement of pulmonary signs and symptoms in a patient with Fabry disease following enzyme replacement therapy. A 38‐year‐old female with Fabry disease presented with dyspnea requiring constant supplemental oxygen. Following bi‐weekly treatment with agalsidase beta, she demonstrated marked improvement in her pulmonary symptoms, eventually no longer needing supplemental oxygen and returning to an active lifestyle. Improvement was seen on pulmonary function tests and chest CT examinations. Enzyme replacement therapy may alleviate pulmonary dysfunction in patients with Fabry disease. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
IVIC syndrome Is caused by a c.2607delA mutation in the SALL4 locus
Authors: Paradisi Irene , Arias Sergio
Published: January 2007

The IVIC syndrome described in 1980 in a large Venezuelan family, is an autosomal dominant condition characterized by upper limbs anomalies (radial ray defects, carpal bones fusion), extraocular motor disturbances, congenital bilateral non‐progressive mixed hearing loss; other less consistent malformations include heart involvement, mild thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis (before age 50), shoulder girdle hypoplasia, imperforate anus, kidney malrotation or rectovaginal fistula. Since 2002, mutations in the SALL4 locus have been reported producing phenotypic features quite similar to those in IVIC syndrome; this gene was thus proposed as a candidate for the condition. A segregation analysis of four SNPs in exon 2 (c.1520T > G, c.1860A > G, c.2037C > T, and c.2392A > C) was carried out in 14 affected and in 15 normal family members. Haplotype T;A;C;A was found to always segregate with the disease. Sequencing the whole coding regions revealed one heterozygous base deletion in exon 3 (c.2607delA) causing a premature stop signal 44 codons downstream (p.Q869fsX44) which segregates with the phenotype, being absent in controls. The large number of affected individuals presumably carrying the same mutation (n = 26) with quite different degrees of involvement allowed a discussion about possible mechanisms for the SALL4 action. The finding of a SALL4 mutation in a family with such a wide pleiotropic spectrum proves that at least Okihiro, acro‐renal‐ocular and IVIC syndromes are allelic entities. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Costal process of the first sacral vertebra: Sexual dimorphism and obstetrical adaptation
Authors: Tague Robert G.
Published: January 2007

The human sacrum is sexually dimorphic, with males being larger than females in most dimensions. Previous studies, though, suggest that females may have a longer costal process of the first sacral vertebra (S1) than males. However, these studies neither quantified nor tested statistically the costal process of S1. This study compares S1 with the five lumbar vertebrae (L1 to L5) for a number of metric dimensions, including costal process length. Four issues are addressed, the: 1) hypothesis that females have a longer costal process of S1 than males; 2)hypothesis that homologous structures (i.e., costal processes of L1 to S1) differ in their direction of sexual dimorphism; 3) importance of the costal process of S1 to the obstetrical capacity of the pelvis; and 4) evolution of sexual dimorphism in costal process length of S1. One hundred ninety‐seven individuals, including males and females of American blacks and whites, from the Hamann–Todd and Terry Collections were studied. Results show that males are significantly larger than females for most vertebral measurements, except that females have a significantly longer costal process of S1 than males. Costal process length of S1 is positively correlated with the transverse diameter and circumference of the pelvic inlet. The magnitude of sexual dimorphism in costal process length of S1 ranks this measure among the most highly dimorphic of the pelvis. Compared with the humans in this study, australopithecines have a relatively long costal process of S1, but their broad sacrum was not associated with obstetrical imperatives. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of the drawing process on the wet spinning of polyacrylonitrile fibers in a system of dimethyl sulfoxide and water
Authors: Wang Yan‐Xiang , Wang Cheng‐Guo , Bai Yu‐Jun , Bo Zhu
Published: January 2007

The effect of the drawing process on the structural characteristics and mechanical properties of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers was comparatively studied. The protofibers extruded from the spinneret were the initial phase of stretching, which involved the deformation of the primitive fiber with the concurrent orientation of the fibrils. Wet‐spun PAN fibers observed by scanning electron microscopy exhibited different cross‐sectional shapes as the draw ratio was varied. X‐ray diffraction results revealed that the crystalline orientation of PAN fibers increased with increasing draw ratio; these differences in the orientation behaviors were attributed to the various drawing mechanisms involved. The crystalline and amorphous orientations of the PAN fibers showed different features; at the same time, the tensile properties were strongly dependent on the draw ratio. However, the stream stretch ratio had most influence on the tensile strength and the orientation of PAN fibers for the selected process parameters. Electron spin resonance proved that the local morphology and segmental dynamics of the protofibers were due to a more heterogeneous environment caused by the sequence structure. Differential scanning calorimetry indicated that the size and shape of the exotherm and exoenergic reaction were strongly dependent on the morphology and physical changes occurring during fiber formation. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1026–1037, 2007
Preparation and properties of a novel polytriazole resin
Authors: Wan Liqiang , Luo Yonghong , Xue Lian , Tian Jianjun , Hu Yanhong , Qi Huimin , Shen Xuening , Huang Farong , Du Lei , Chen Xiangbao
Published: January 2007

A novel polytriazole resin prepared from p‐xylylene diazide (XDA) and N,N,N′,N′‐tetrapropargyl‐p,p′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (TPDDM) was synthesized and characterized. The resin is soluble in common solvents like acetone. The results show that the polytriazole resin can be cured at 70°C. The glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition temperature of the cured resin are 218 and 350°C, respectively. The tensile and flexural strengths of the cured resin achieve 99.0 and 200 MPa, respectively. It is potential as a low cost and easy processing thermal resistant polymer matrix for advanced composite applications. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1038–1042, 2007
Use of isoconversional methods to analyze the cure kinetics of isocyanate‐ended quasi‐prepolymers with water
Authors: Daniel‐da‐Silva Ana L. , Moura Bordado João C. , Martín‐Martínez José M.
Published: January 2007

The curing of an isocyanate (NCO)‐ended quasi‐prepolymer by reaction with water in stoichiometric ratio was monitored by using differential scanning calorimetry both under isothermal and non‐isothermal conditions. A quasi‐prepolymer containing 16 wt % free NCO prepared by reacting trifunctional polypropylene glycol (PPG) with polymeric MDI was used in this study. The variation of the effective activation energy with the extent of the curing reaction was calculated by means of model‐free differential and integral isoconversional methods. Both isoconversional methods provided similar results showingthat the activation energy depends on the extent of thereaction of the quasi‐prepolymer with water. The dependence of the effective activation energy proved to be different under isothermal and non‐isothermal curing conditions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1049–1057, 2007
Use of polymeric nitrosation reagents for the N‐nitrosation of secondary amines under mild and heterogeneous conditions
Authors: Zarchi M. A. Karimi , Noei J.
Published: January 2007

A combination of crosslinked poly(4‐vinylpyridinium)chloride [P4‐H]Cl (I) and sodium nitrite or quaternized crosslinked poly(N‐methyl‐4‐vinylpyridinium)nitrite [P4‐Me]NO2 (II) was used as effective nitrosating agents for the N‐nitrosation of secondary amines under mild and heterogeneous conditions in moderate to excellent yields. The spent polymeric reagents can usually be removed quantitatively and regenerated. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1064–1067, 2007
Synthesis and properties of organosoluble polynaphthalimides bearing ether linkages and phthalide cardo groups
Authors: Yang Chin‐Ping , Chen Ya‐Yin , Hsiao Sheng‐Huei
Published: January 2007

A series of organic‐soluble polynaphthalimides (PNI) bearing flexible ether links and phthalide cardo group were synthesized from 1,4,5,8‐naphthalenetetracarboxylic dianhydride (NTDA) with 3,3‐bis[4‐(4‐aminophenoxy)‐3‐methylphenyl]phthalide (BAMP) and its equimolar mixtures with other dietheramines by high‐temperature solution polycondensation in m‐cresol. The PNIs had moderate to high inherent viscosities in the range of 1.24–2.25 dL/g and could afford flexible and tough films with tensile strengths of 97–138 MPa by casting their m‐cresol solutions. These PNIs exhibited high thermal stability, with glass transition temperature of 291°C–321°C, 10% weight‐loss temperatures above 542°C, and char yields at 800°C in nitrogen higher than 56%. In comparison with PNIs without the BAMP component, these BAMP‐modified PNIs revealed an enhanced solubility and film‐forming capability. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1104–1109, 2007
DMTA based investigation of hygrothermal ageing of an epoxy system used in rehabilitation
Authors: Xian Guijun , Karbhari Vistasp M.
Published: January 2007

Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) techniques were used to investigate the moisture uptake and ageing of an ambient temperature cured epoxy used in the external strengthening of deteriorating concrete structures. Since the process is conducted under field conditions, cure does not progress completely prior to exposure to environmental conditions. Resin samples are immersed in deionized water at 23, 40, and 60°C, as well as in 5% NaCl and concrete based alkali solution at 23°C for periods up to 24 months. Diffusion coefficients increase with increase in temperature of immersion, but the maximum/equilibrium moisture content over the period of time is seen to be largely independent of temperature of immersion and type of solution. Glass transition temperature was found to decrease with increasing moisture uptake, with competing effects of cure progression and plasticization in the early periods of exposure, followed by hydrolysis and irreversible deterioration over longer periods of time. Splitting of the Tg of samples aged in deionized water and alkali solution indicate the formation of biphasic structures and drying of the network structure during DMTA. A biphasic structure indicating differently plasticized phases in the skin regions, which is different from the response in the bulk, is seen in samples immersed in salt solution. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1084–1094, 2007
Structure and properties of thermoplastic poly(glycerol sebacate) elastomers originating from prepolymers with different molecular weights
Authors: Liu Quanyong , Tian Ming , Shi Rui , Zhang Liqun , Chen Dafu , Tian Wei
Published: January 2007

Thermoplastic poly(glycerol sebacate) (TMPGS) elastomers originating from three prepolymers with different molecular weights were prepared first, and then the structure and properties were studied. Specifically, by swelling tests, gel permeation chromatography, X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry, the crosslinking densities, sol contents and compositions, crystallization, and thermal performances of three TMPGSs were examined. Finally, the degradability in a 37°C phosphate‐buffered saline solution (pH = 7.4) was also illuminated. The three TMPGSs had similar chemical structures, but the different molecular weights of the prepolymers influenced their final compositions and properties to a great extent. Furthermore, both hydrogen bonding and plasticization action in the elastomers played important roles in balancing the overall properties of the TMPGS elastomers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1131–1137, 2007
Effect of mesogenic crosslinking units on the mesomorphic phases of cholesteric liquid crystalline polymers
Authors: Meng Fan‐Bao , Zhang Bao‐Yan , Zhou Ai‐Juan , Li Xi‐Zhi
Published: January 2007

A series of cyclosiloxane‐based cholesteric liquid crystalline polymers were synthesized from cholest‐5‐en‐3‐ol (3β)‐4‐(2‐propenyloxy)benzoate and a nematic crosslinking monomer biphenyl‐4,4′‐diol bis[4‐(2‐propenyloxy)‐benzoate], containing mesogenic crosslinking contents among 0–7.8 wt %. Swelling experiments of the elastomers were employed to determine the effective crosslink density (Mc). With increase of mesogenic crosslinking component in the polymers, the isotropic temperature decreases, but both the temperature of glass transition and melting point change irregularly. All the polymers have high thermal stability and percentage weight loss occurred at 460°C decreases with increase of crosslinking units. The intensity of X‐ray diffraction peak at 2θ ≈ 17° decreases with increase of mesogenic crosslinking units, suggesting that the order between two neighbor liquid crystalline molecules disturbed by the mesogenic crosslinking agents. The maximum reflection bands shift slightly to long wavelength and become broad, indicating that the helical structure is partially disrupted because of both the constraint of chemical crosslinking agents and the different mesogenic units. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1161–1168, 2007
Acetylation reaction of polytetramethylene glycol with acetic anhydride in pyridine
Authors: Ge Zhen , Zhang Xingyuan , Dai Jiabing , Li Weihu , Chao Jing , Feng Linlin
Published: January 2007

The acetylation reaction of polytetramethylene glycol (PTMG) with acetic anhydride in pyridine was studied. The extent of acetylation was measured by 1H‐NMR, and the acetylation product was characterized with FTIR, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR. The effects of the experimental conditions, i.e., reaction time and temperature, acetylation reagent concentration (anhydride and hydroxyl molar ratio), were investigated. The increase in reaction temperature and reaction time favored the acetylation yields. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1138–1142, 2007
Preparation of new poly(amide–imide)s with chiral architectures via direct polyamidation reaction
Authors: Mallakpour Shadpour , Kolahdoozan Majid
Published: January 2007

N‐trimellitylimido‐L‐methionine (3) was prepared by reaction of trimellitic anhydride (1) with ‐L‐methionine (2) in acetic acid solution at refluxing temperature. This diacid was reacted with thionyl chloride, and N‐trimellitylimido‐L‐methionine diacid chloride (4) was obtained in quantitative yield. The resulting diacid chloride was reacted with p‐aminobenzoic acid in dry acetone and bis(p‐aminobenzoic acid)‐N‐trimellitylimido‐L‐methionine (5) was obtained as a novel optically active amide–imide diacid monomer in high yield. The direct polycondensation of amide–imide diacid monomer 5 with several aromatic diamines was carried out with tosyl chloride (TsCl)/pyridine (Py)/dimetheylformamide (DMF) system. The resulting thermally stable poly(amide–imide)s (PAIs) were obtained in good yields and inherent viscosities ranging between 0.24 and 0.46 dL g−1 and were characterized with FTIR, 1H NMR, CHN, and TGA techniques. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1248–1254, 2007
Copolymerization of ethylene and 1‐dodecene catalyzed by novel low‐Ti‐loading Ziegler–Natta catalysts and their microstructures
Authors: Zhao Zhenrong , Wang Li , Wang Jianfeng , Dong Xiaochen , Yu Haojie
Published: January 2007

Ethylene–1‐dodecene copolymers were synthesized with novel low‐Ti‐loading (0.8 wt %) Ziegler–Natta catalysts prepared by a one‐pot balling method. 13C‐NMR was applied for the quantitative determination of the composites and microstructures of the resultant ethylene–1‐dodecene copolymers. The results showed that (1) the ethylene–1‐dodecene copolymers obtained from both the MgCl2‐supported low‐Ti‐loading Ziegler–Natta catalyst and the MgCl2/SiO2‐bisupported low‐Ti‐loading Ziegler–Natta catalyst at a 0.6M 1‐dodecene concentration had high levels of 1‐dodecene and (2) most of the 1‐dodecene units were separated by ethylene units in the copolymer chains obtained from the MgCl2‐supported low‐Ti‐loading Ziegler–Natta catalyst, whereas there were some continuous 1‐dodecene repeat units in the copolymer chain obtained from the MgCl2/SiO2‐bisupported low‐Ti‐loading Ziegler–Natta catalyst. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1200–1204, 2007
Development of linseed oil based polyesteramide without organic solvent at lower temperature
Authors: Ahmad Sharif , Ashraf S. M. , Zafar Fahmina
Published: January 2007

Linseed oil based polyesteramide was synthesized at lower temperature in the absence of organic solvent through condensation polymerization reaction [Sf‐LPEA]. In this reaction N,N‐bis(2‐hydroxyethyl) linseed oil fatty amide and phthalic anhydride were heated at temperature lower than their onset of melting points and the by‐product, such as water was removed by application of vacuum technique. This approach was employed to overcome the use of volatile organic solvents used during processing and application of resin, which are ecologically harmful. The solubility of Sf‐LPEA was checked in different polar and nonpolar solvents. The FTIR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectral techniques were used to confirm the structure of Sf‐LPEA. The physicochemical, physicomechanical, and chemical resistance properties of the resin were investigated by standard methods. DSC and TGA were used to determine, respectively, the curing behavior and thermal stability of the resin. The comparative study of these properties of Sf‐LPEA with reported polyesteramide [LPEA], which are normally synthesized at higher temperature in organic solvent, was done. It was found that Sf‐LPEA exhibited improved physicomechanical, chemical resistance properties, and higher thermal stability compared with LPEA, and hence can find application as corrosion protective coating. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1143–1148, 2007
Gloss and degradation of hydroxyl polyacrylic resin/hexamethylene‐1,6‐diisocyanate coatings under ultraviolet and natural‐exposure aging
Authors: Liu Can‐Pei
Published: January 2007

Reactive coatings of hydroxyl polyacrylic resin (HPAR) with hexamethylene‐1,6‐diisocyanate were carried out under accelerated 313‐nm ultraviolet (UV) aging for 2000 h and under natural exposure in Lhasa, Tibet, for 24 months. With UV irradiation and exposure time, the gloss changes in coatings with HPAR containing 3.0% or less hydroxyl groups decreased exponentially, whereas the gloss decay of coatings with HPAR containing over 4.5% hydroxyl groups decreased linearly. During 254‐nm UV aging, the gloss changes in coatings with HPAR containing 1.4% or less hydroxyl groups decreased as a Gaussian function. The weather resistance of a coating was correlated to the HPAR, UV irradiation, temperature, and humidity. Scanning electron microscopy indicated that there were degradation reactions and that some substance was lost in the matrix polymer during accelerated UV aging; then, uneven surfaces appeared and caused decreased gloss. Accelerated UV aging was faster than natural‐exposure aging, and the aging velocity of 254‐nm UV was 3–5 times faster than that of 313‐nm UV. Through the changes in the gloss, the aging tolerance of a coating could be monitored, and its aging resistance could also be predicted. The dynamic mechanical thermal analysis results showed that the coatings had good properties. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1271–1278, 2007
Effect of the particle size of Al2O3 on the properties of filled heat‐conductive silicone rubber
Authors: Zhou Wenying , Qi Shuhua , Tu Chunchao , Zhao Hongzhen , Wang Caifeng , Kou Jingli
Published: January 2007

An elastomeric thermal pad with a thermal conductivity of 1.45 W/m K, needed for the heat dissipation of microelectronics, was obtained with hybrid alumina of different particle sizes as a filler and silicone rubber (vinyl‐end‐blocked polymethylsiloxane) as the matrix. The effects of the amount, particle size, and mixing mass ratio of the filler particles on the thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of silicone rubber were investigated. The results indicated that the thermal conductivity of the rubber filled with larger particles was superior to that of the rubber filled with the smaller grain size, and the rubber incorporated with a mixture of hybrid particles at a preferable mass ratio exhibited higher thermal conductivity than the rubber for which a filler with only a single particle size was used. In addition, the surface treatment of the hybrid filler with 3‐methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane could increase the thermal conductivity of the composite rubber. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1312–1318, 2007
Preparation of unsaturated polyester–styrene beads using gamma irradiation and chemical polymerization routes for use in the recovery of some alkali metal ions
Authors: El‐Nahas H. H. , Khalil F. H. , Ibrahim G. M. , El‐Gammal B.
Published: January 2007

Suspension polymerization of unsaturated polyester–styrene was carried out in different media using different routes of polymerization. The effects of matrix type and concentration hold up, viscosity, irradiation dose, and the agitation speed on the resultant polymer characteristics were examined. The formed beads were physically identified using scanning electron microscopy, hardness, and particle size analysis techniques. They were smooth having typical spherical surfaces; the beads diameters were in the range of about 5–200 μm. The size of the resin beads was found to decrease with increase in the concentration and viscosity of the dispersant and impeller speed. The resultant beads were applied in the recovery of Li+, Na+, K+, and Cs+ ions from acidic media. The distribution coefficients of the alkali metal ions were calculated; the order of selectivity was Li+ > Na+ > K+ > Cs+ in case of the chemically processed resin beads, while the selectivity lies in the order of Li+ < Na+ < K+ < Cs+ in case irradiation processed ones. Finally, the economics of production of the unsaturated polyester–styrene resins using different methodologies was studied. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1149–1160, 2007
Effects of ethylene content of poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol) on diameter of fibers produced by melt‐electrospinning
Authors: Ogata Nobuo , Lu Gang , Iwata Toshiharu , Yamaguchi Shinji , Nakane Koji , Ogihara Takashi
Published: January 2007

Rodlike samples were made from four kinds of poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl alcohol) (EVAL) pellets with different ethylene contents. From these rodlike samples, fibers were produced using a melt‐electrospinning system equipped with a CO2‐laser melting device. The effects on the fiber diameter of the ethylene content and the moisture regain of the rodlike samples were investigated. Furthermore, the physical properties of the fibers were investigated. The following conclusions were reached: (i) EVAL fibers having an average fiber diameter smaller than 1 μm can be obtained using the system developed; (ii) the diameter of EVAL fiber is influenced by the ethylene content and the moisture regain of the starting rods; (iii) the laser heating does not greatly decrease the melting point and the molecular weight of EVAL; and (iv) preferred crystal orientation can be seen in electrospun EVAL fibers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1368–1375, 2007
Dye flocculation using polyampholytes and polyelectrolyte‐surfactant nanoparticles
Authors: Petzold Gudrun , Schwarz Simona , Mende Mandy , Jaeger Werner
Published: January 2007

In this article, we report on the dye flocculation performance of polyampholytes containing hydrophobically modified cationic, hydrophilic nonionic, and anionic monomer units, always with an excess of cationic charges. The results are compared with homopolymers and with those obtained using nonstoichiometric polyelectrolyte–surfactant complex (PSC) dispersions with adjustable surface charge density. The polyampholytes as well as the PSC can successfully remove the dye Celliton Fast Blue (Dispers blue 3). The efficiency of dye separation is mainly influenced by the charge of polymers or complexes, demonstrating that charge neutralization is one flocculation mechanism. However, PSC, which are almost neutral, are also able to remove the dye due to their size and structure. In this case, the degree of dye removal is a little bit better and the so‐called flocculation window is broader as in the case of charge neutralization. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 1342–1349, 2007
A randomized controlled trial of licartin for preventing hepatoma recurrence after liver transplantation
Authors: Xu Jing , Shen Zhong-Yang , Chen Xin-Guo , Zhang Qing , Bian Hui-Jie , Zhu Ping , Xu Hui-Yun , Song Fei , Yang Xiang-Min , Mi Li , Zhao Qing-Chuan , Tian Rong , Feng Qiang , Zhang Si-He , Li Yu , Jiang Jian-Li , Li Ling , Yu Xiao-Ling , Zhang Zheng , Chen Zhi-Nan
Published: January 2007

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is the only curative therapy of HCC with underlying cirrhosis, but due to HCC metastasis and recurrence, its benefit is limited to a small population who meet the strict selection criteria. We previously reported that Licartin ([131I]mAb HAb18G/CD147) was safe and effective in treating HCC patients, and its antigen, HAb18G/CD147, was closely related to HCC invasion and metastasis. Here, we reported a randomized controlled trial to assess the post-OLT antirecurrence efficacy of Licartin in advanced HCC patients. We randomized 60 post-OLT patients with HCC, who were at tumor stage 3/4 and outside the Milan criteria before OLT, into 2 groups. Three weeks after OLT, the treatment group received 15.4 MBq/kg of Licartin, while the control group received placebo intravenously for 3 times with an interval of 28 days. At 1-year follow-up, the recurrence rate significantly decreased by 30.4% (

P

= 0.0174) and the survival rate increased by 20.6% (

P

= 0.0289) in the treatment group, compared with those in the control group. For the control group versus the treatment group, the hazard ratio for recurrence was 3.60 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.50-8.60) and that for death was 3.87 (95% CI, 1.23–12.21). Licartin treatment also resulted in an earlier decreased AFP level and a longer time of normal AFP level than placebo (

P

= 0.0016). No Licartin-related toxic effects were observed.

Conclusion:

Licartin is a promising drug for preventing post-OLT tumor recurrence in advanced HCC patients excluded by the currently strict criteria for OLT. HAb18G/CD147 can be a good drug target.
Concanavalin A induces autophagy in hepatoma cells and has a therapeutic effect in a murine in situ hepatoma model
Authors: Chang Chih-Peng , Yang Ming-Cheng , Liu Hsiao-Sheng , Lin Yee-Shin , Lei Huan-Yao
Published: January 2007

Concanavalin A (ConA), a lectin with mannose specificity that can induce acute hepatic inflammation, was tested for its therapeutic effect against hepatoma. ConA is cytotoxic or inhibitory to hepatoma cells, which is mediated by the autophagic pathway through mitochondria. Once it was bound to cell membrane glycoproteins, the ConA was internalized and preferentially localized onto the mitochondria. The mitochondria membrane permeability changed, and an autophagic pathway including LC3-II generation, double-layer vesicle, BNIP3 induction, and acidic vesicular organelle formation was induced. Either 3-MA or siRNA for BNIP3 and LC3, but neither beclin-1 nor ATG 5, partially inhibited the ConA-induced cell death. In addition to the autophagy induction, ConA is known to be a T cell mitogen. Using an in situ hepatoma model, ConA can exert an anti-hepatoma therapeutic effect, inhibiting tumor nodule formation in the liver and prolonging survival.

Conclusion:

ConA can be considered as an anti-hepatoma agent therapeutically because of its autophagic induction and immunomodulating activity. This dual function of ConA provides a novel mechanism for the biological effect of lectin.
Molecular and functional analysis of occult hepatitis B virus isolates from patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Pollicino Teresa , Raffa Giuseppina , Costantino Lucy , Lisa Antonella , Campello Cesare , Squadrito Giovanni , Levrero Massimo , Raimondo Giovanni
Published: January 2007

Occult HBV infection is characterized by the persistence of HBV DNA in the liver of individuals negative for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). Occult HBV may exist in the hepatocytes as a free genome, although the factors responsible for the very low viral replication and gene expression usually observed in this peculiar kind of infection are mostly unknown. Aims of this study were to investigate whether the viral genomic variability might account for the HBsAg negativity and the inhibition of the viral replication in occult HBV carriers, and to verify

in vitro

the replication capability of occult HBV strains. We studied liver viral isolates from 17 HBV patients, 13 with occult infection and 4 HBsAg-positive. Full-length HBV genomes from each case were amplified and directly sequenced. Additionally, full-length HBV DNA from eight occult-HBV and two HBsAg-positive cases were cloned and sequenced. Finally, three entire, linear HBV genomes from occult cases were transiently transfected in HuH7 cells. Direct sequencing showed the absence of mutations capable of interfering with viral replication and gene expression in the major viral population of each case. Cloning experiments showed highly divergent HBV strains both in HBsAg-positive and HBsAg-negative individual cases (range of divergence 1.4%-7.1%). All of the 3 transfected full-length HBV isolates showed normal patterns of replication

in vitro

.

Conclusion:

Multiple viral variants accumulate in the liver of occult HBV-infected patients. Occult HBV strains are replication-competent

in vitro,

suggesting that host, rather than viral factors are responsible for cryptic HBV infection.
Architectural gear ratio and muscle fiber strain homogeneity in segmented musculature
Authors: Azizi Emanuel , Brainerd Elizabeth L.
Published: January 2007

In the segmented axial musculature of fishes and amphibians, the patterns of muscle fiber shortening depend on both the orientation of muscle fibers relative to the long axis of the body as well as the distance of fibers from the neutral axis of bending (vertebral column). In this study we use the relatively simple architecture of salamander hypaxial muscles to explore the separate and combined effects of these morphological features on muscle fiber strains during swimming. In Siren lacertina the external oblique (EO) muscle has more obliquely oriented muscle fibers and is located further from the neutral axis of bending than the internal oblique (IO) muscle. To examine the effect of muscle fiber angle on strain patterns during swimming, we used sonomicrometry to quantify architectural gear ratio (AGR=longitudinal strain/fiber strain) in these two hypaxial muscles. By comparing the muscle fiber strains and shortening velocities of the EO and IO during swimming, we test whether variation in mediolateral position of the muscle layers is counteracted by their differences in AGR. We find that despite substantial differences in mediolateral position, the EO and IO undergo similar fiber strains and shortening velocities for a given amount of axial bending. Our results show that variation in muscle fiber angle acts to counteract differences in mediolateral position, thereby minimizing variation in muscle fiber strain and shortening velocity during swimming. These results highlight the significance of both muscle architecture and muscle moment arms in determining the fiber strains required for a given movement. J. Exp. Zool. 307A, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Absorption of tetraethylammonium (TEA+) by perfused lobster intestine
Authors: Piersol Megan C. , Sterling Kenneth M. , Ahearn Gregory A.
Published: January 2007

The organic cation, tetraethylammonium (TEA+), is actively secreted by mammalian nephrons and crustacean urinary bladders by similar processes in both animal groups. These mechanisms consist of a basolateral Organic Cation Transporter (OCT family) that employs the transmembrane electrical potential as a driving force for organic cation uptake from the blood and a brush border secondary active transport process that exchanges luminal protons for TEA+. The present study examined the nature of 14C‐TEA+ transport across the perfused intestinal epithelium of the American lobster, Homarus americanus, to ascertain whether the gut complemented the kidneys in the clearance of these organic metabolites from the blood. Unidirectional mucosa to serosa (M to S) 14C‐TEA+ fluxes in anterior and posterior intestine were hyperbolic functions of luminal [TEA+] and significantly (P<0.01) exceeded the respective serosa to mucosa (S to M) fluxes. Luminal quinine (1 mM) significantly (P<0.05) inhibited M to S flux of the organic cation, while serosal addition of the drug had no effect on S to M transfer of TEA+. Reducing serosal pH from 7.20 to 6.02 significantly (P<0.01) stimulated M to S transfer of 0.1 mM 14C‐TEA+, but significantly (P<0.05) lowered S to M transfer of the metabolite.

Addition of 2.0 mM unlabelled serosal TEA+ trans‐stimulated the M to S flux of 0.1 mM 14C‐TEA and doubled the transfer rate of the organic cation from lumen to blood compared to its transport in the absence of TEA+ in the bath. Results suggest that this organic cation is absorbed across lobster intestine by the combination of a brush border OCT‐1‐like transporter coupled with a basolateral H+/TEA+ exchanger. A working model is presented for intestinal organic cation absorption in crustaceans and compared to the secretory transport model for this class of metabolites previously reported for crustacean and mammalian kidneys. J. Exp. Zool. 307A, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Continuous Versus Interrupted Suture for End-To-End Biliary Anastomosis During Liver Transplantation Gives Equal Results†
Authors: Castaldo Eric T. , Pinson Wright C. , Feurer Irene D. , Wright Kelly J. , Gorden Lee D. , Kelly Beau S. , Chari Ravi S.
Published: January 2007

Biliary complications following orthotopic liver transplantation have been reported in 10% to 30% of patients. Most surgeons perform an end-to-end choledochocholedochostomy with interrupted sutures for biliary reconstruction. The goal of this study was to compare biliary complications between interrupted suture (IS) and continuous suture (CS) techniques during liver transplantation in which an end-to-end choledochocholedochostomy over an internal biliary stent was performed. A retrospective cohort study of 100 consecutive liver transplants occurring between December 2003 and July 2005 was conducted. An end-to-end choledochocholedochostomy over an internal biliary stent was performed during liver transplantation. Data were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier methods, t tests, and chi-square tests of proportions. IS and CS techniques were used in 59 and 41 patients, respectively, for biliary reconstruction during liver transplantation. Mean follow-up time for the CS group was 17 ± 8 months and 15 ± 7 months for the IS group (P = .21). The overall biliary complication rate was 15%. There was no difference in the proportion of leaks (CS = 7.3%, IS = 8.5%; P = .83) or strictures (CS = 9.8%, IS = 5.1%; P = .37) between groups. Kaplan-Meier event rates show no difference in leaks (P = .79), strictures (P = .41), graft survival (P = .52), and patient survival (P = .32) by anastomosis type. In conclusion, there was no difference in biliary complications, graft survival, or patient survival between the 2 groups. CS and IS techniques for biliary reconstruction during liver transplantation yield comparable outcomes. Liver Transpl 13:234–238, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Liver Retransplantation for Primary Nonfunction
Authors: Uemura Tadahiro , Randall Henry B. , Sanchez Edmund Q. , Ikegami Toru , Narasimhan Gomathy , McKenna Greg J. , Chinnakotla Srinath , Levy Marlon F. , Goldstein Robert M. , Klintmalm Goran B.
Published: January 2007

Initial graft function following liver transplantation is a major determinant of postoperative survival and morbidity. Primary graft nonfunction (PNF) is uncommon; however, it is one of the most serious and life-threatening conditions in the immediate postoperative period. The risk factors associated with PNF and short-term outcome have been previously reported, but there are no reports of long-term follow-up after retransplant for PNF. At our institution, 52 liver transplants had PNF (2.22%) among 2,341 orthotopic liver transplants in 2,130 patients from 1984 to 2003. PNF occurred more often in the retransplant setting. Female donors, donor age, donor days in the intensive care unit, cold ischemia time, and operating room time were significant factors for PNF. Patient as well as graft survival of retransplant for PNF was not different compared to retransplant for other causes. However, PNF for a second or third transplant did not demonstrate long-term survival, and hospital mortality was 57%. In conclusion, retransplant for PNF in the initial transplant can achieve relatively good long-term survival; however, if another transplant is needed in the setting of a second PNF, the third retransplant should probably not be done due to poor expected outcome. Liver Transpl 13:227–233, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Factors Influencing the Progression of Fibrosis in Patients with Recurrent Hepatitis C After Liver Transplantation Under Antiviral Therapy
Authors: Walter Thomas , Dumortier Jérôme , Guillaud Olivier , Hervieu Valérie , Scoazec Jean-Yves , Boillot Olivier
Published: January 2007

Recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation (LT) is a major problem, since up to 30% of patients develop cirrhosis only 5 years after LT in the absence of antiviral therapy. The aim of this study was to examine the rate of progression of fibrosis and its associated risk factors in patients submitted to an early antiviral treatment post-LT. Included in the study were 105 patients submitted to LT between September 1990 and December 2004, 70 of whom were treated with interferon and/or ribavirin. A total of 939 liver biopsies were studied. The median fibrosis stage was 0.8 after 1 year post-LT, 1.1 after 3 years, 1.3 after 5 years, and 1.5 after 10 years. LT recipients with fibrosis >2 (13% at 10 years) had a significantly reduced survival rate (63% vs. 87% at 10 years, P = 0.03). Univariate analysis disclosed that recipient male gender, antiviral therapy before LT, LT after 1998, induction immunosuppressive regimen including tacrolimus, induction immunosuppressive regimen including mycophenolate (or without azathioprine), and short duration of prednisolone (<12 months) were significantly associated with progression of fibrosis. In a multivariate analysis, recipient male gender (P = 0.04), antiviral treatment before LT (P = 0.001), and initial immunosuppressive regimen without azathioprine (P = 0.03) were associated with progression of fibrosis. In conclusion, our study has documented that fibrosis progression is not linear over time and that occurrence of severe fibrosis is related to previously described factors related to immunosuppressive regimen or donor age and also to a past history of pre-LT antiviral therapy. Liver Transpl 13:294–301, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.
Dental Health Status of Liver Transplant Candidates
Authors: Guggenheimer James , Eghtesad Bijan , Close John M. , Shay Christine , Fung John J.
Published: January 2007

A prerequisite dental evaluation is usually recommended for potential organ transplant candidates. This is based on the premise that untreated dental disease may pose a risk for infection and sepsis, although there is no evidence that this has occurred in organ transplant candidates or recipients. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of dental disease and oral health behaviors in a sample of liver transplant candidates (LTCs). Oral examinations were conducted on 300 LTCs for the presence of gingivitis, dental plaque, dental caries, periodontal disease, edentulism, and xerostomia. The prevalence of these conditions was compared with oral health data from national health surveys and examined for possible associations with most recent dental visit, smoking, and type of liver disease. Significant risk factors for plaque-related gingivitis included intervals of more than 1 yr since the last dental visit (P = 0.004), smoking (P = 0.03), and diuretic therapy (P = 0.005). Dental caries and periodontal disease were also significantly associated with intervals of more than 1 yr since the last dental visit (P = 0.004). LTCs with viral hepatitis or alcoholic cirrhosis had the highest smoking rate (78.8%). Higher rates of edentulism occurred among older LTCs who were less likely to have had a recent dental evaluation (mean 88 months). In conclusion, intervals of more than 1 yr since the last dental visit, smoking, and diuretic therapy appear to be the most significant determinants of dental disease and the need for a pretransplantation dental screening evaluation in LTCs. Edentulous patients should have periodic examinations for oral cancer. Liver Transpl 13:280–286, 2007. © 2007 AASLD.