bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crush Head Injuries in Infants and Young Children: Neurologic and Neuropsychologic Sequelae
Authors: Prasad Mary R. , Ewing-Cobbs Linda , Baumgartner James
Published: January 2008

Neurologic and neuropsychologic sequelae of crush head injury, which is produced by static forces occurring when the head is stationary and pinned against a rigid structure, were studied prospectively in a series of eight children ranging in age from 13 to 32 months. Hospital course, computed tomographic findings, and neurologic and developmental outcomes were examined. All children sustained pronounced cerebral trauma characterized by multiple fractures throughout the calvaria, extra-axial hemorrhages, and parenchymal contusions. Cranial nerve injuries were noted in three and hemiparesis in two of the cases. Two months after the injury, 63% of the children displayed deficits in either IQ or motor functioning. One year after the injury, five of the six children reevaluated had a good recovery. Motor scores were significantly lower than cognitive scores at baseline and showed the greatest degree of improvement over time. Neuropsychologic outcome after brain injury produced by static loading of the head is more favorable than from traumatic brain injury associated with dynamic loading. (J Child Neurol 1999; 14:496-501).
Cognition, Behavior, and Development in Joubert Syndrome
Authors: Fennell Eileen B. , Gitten Jill C. , Dede Duane E. , Maria Bernard L.
Published: January 2008

This article reports on a series of studies of children with Joubert syndrome who were examined in three investigations from 1994 through 1998. Neuropsychologic screening of 10 of 40 children showed a variety of deficits in cognition, verbal memory, visuomotor, motor, and language-related tasks. Parent report of developmental attainments revealed only 3 of 40 children functioning in the borderline range, with the rest scoring in the severely impaired range. Parent reports of behaviors revealed problems in temperament, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, and dependency, as well as problems in physical development and care that were felt to be related to their neurologic handicaps. Future directions of research with this rare disorder are suggested. ( J Child Neurol 1999;14:592-596).
Efficacy and Mortality in Treatment of Refractory Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus in Children: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gilbert Donald L. , Gartside Peter S. , Glauser Tracy A.
Published: January 2008

There is no consensus on the choice of drug treatment for refractory generalized convulsive status epilepticus in children. The objective of this meta-analysis of the published literature was to determine the effects of drug treatments on efficacy (seizure cessation) and mortality in children with this condition, controlling for potential confounding factors. One hundred eleven children, treated with diazepam, midazolam, thiopental, pentobarbital, or isoflurane, met strict inclusion criteria. Diazepam was significantly less efficacious than other treatments (P = .006) stratifying for etiology. Overall mortality was 20% in symptomatic cases and 4% in idiopathic cases (P = .038). Mortality was less frequent in midazolam-treated patients (P = .021) stratifying for etiology. Midazolam appears to be a good choice for initial treatment of refractory generalized convulsive status epilepticus in children, but the attribution of differences in efficacy and mortality solely to drug effect is not possible based on the published literature. ( J Child Neurol 1999;14:602-609).
Parasagittal Cerebral Injury: Magnetic Resonance Findings
Authors: Campistol J. , Poo P. , Fernandez Alvarez E. , Carratala F.
Published: January 2008

Parasagittal cerebral injury is a specific pathologic lesion that can be found in full-term newborn babies suffering from hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. It is defined by the presence of cortical and subcortical white-matter necrosis involving the parasagittal and superomedial areas of the cerebral convexities. We report on two patients who showed parasagittal cerebral injury on magnetic resonance imaging. In both cases antecedents of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy were noted. In one of the patients basal ganglia involvement was also detected by cranial magnetic resonance imaging. In the follow-up studies the presence of upper-limb pyramidal signs and dyspraxia were two of the more pronounced symptoms. We will discuss the usefulness of neuroimaging, especially magnetic resonance imaging with coronal views, in the diagnosis of the parasagittal cerebral injury. ( J Child Neurol 1999;14:683-685).
Acute Spinal Cord Infarction: Vascular Steal in Arteriovenous Malformation
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Sankar , Sheth Raj D.
Published: January 2008

Central nervous system arteriovenous malformations typically present with chronic neurologic impairment. An 8-year-old boy presented with acute spinal cord infarction associated with a spinal arteriovenous malformation. Vascular steal phenomenon suggested by spinal angiography happens to underly the pathogenic mechanism. ( J Child Neurol 1999;14:685-687).
Broader Clinical Spectrum of Fukuyama-Type Congenital Muscular Dystrophy Manifested by Haplotype Analysis
Authors: Yoshioka Mieko , Toda Tatsushi , Kuroki Shigekazu , Hamano Kenzo
Published: January 2008

Fukuyama-type congenital muscular dystrophy, Walker-Warburg syndrome, and muscle-eye-brain disease are clinically similar autosomal-recessive diseases, characterized by congenital muscular dystrophy, cobblestone lissencephaly, and eye anomalies. The classification of these disorders remains controversial. We analyzed five patients with congenital muscular dystrophy from four families who had severe eye and brain anomalies, such as retinal dysplasia and hydrocephalus, using polymorphic microsatellite markers flanking the Fukuyama-type congenital muscular dystrophy locus on chromosome 9q31. All patients were heterozygous for the Fukuyama muscular dystrophy founder haplotype with 3-kb insertion. In three cases, the other chromosome without the 3-kb insertion exhibited the same haplotype with a nonsense mutation on exon 3 of the Fukuyama gene. Thus, these three patients were compound heterozygotes for the condition. Severe eye anomalies such as retinal dysplasia or detachment and hydrocephalus could be included in the clinical spectrum of Fukuyama muscular dystrophy The clinical spectrum of this disease is much broader than previously presumed. ( J Child Neurol 1999;14:711-715).
Increased Cerebrospinal Fluid Glycine: A Biochemical Marker for a Leukoencephalopathy With Vanishing White Matter
Authors: van der Knaap Marjo S. , Wevers Ron A. , Kure Shigeo , Gabreëls Fons J. M. , Verhoeven Nanda M. , van Raaij-Selten Bertie , Jaeken Jaak
Published: January 2008

Recently, a new disease entity has been defined: the disease of vanishing white matter. This leukoencephalopathy has an autosomal-recessive mode of inheritance. No cause or biochemical marker is known. We studied cerebrospinal fluid amino acids in five patients with the disease and found a consistent, moderate elevation of cerebrospinal fluid glycine in all. The ratio of cerebrospinal fluid to plasma glycine was elevated in four patients, in two patients reaching the level considered diagnostic for nonketotic hyperglycinemia. The activity of the glycine cleavage system was found to be normal in lymphoblasts in two patients. The elevation of cerebrospinal fluid glycine in the disease of vanishing white matter is either caused by a primary disturbance of glycine metabolism or is secondary to excitotoxic brain damage. ( J Child Neurol 1999;14:728-731).
Topical Review: Clinical Spectrum of Cortical Dysplasia in Childhood: Diagnosis and Treatment Issues
Authors: Whiting Sharon , Duchowny Michael
Published: January 2008

Disorders of cortical development form a spectrum of lesions produced by insults to the developing neocortex. These conditions typically first manifest in childhood with epilepsy, developmental delay, and focal neurologic signs. Although the clinical and electrophysiologic findings are often nonspecific, high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging facilitates diagnosis during life, and assists in delineating specific clinical syndromes. While many patients are dysmorphic and severely affected by mental retardation and epilepsy, some have normal or near-normal cognitive function and no seizures. Molecular studies of dysplastic cortex are providing new insights into the basic mechanisms of brain function and development, while pathologic analysis of tissue removed at surgery is helping to define epileptic circuitry. Treatment of the epilepsy associated with cortical dysplasia is often frustrating, but surgical approaches based on accurately defining epileptogenic regions are proving increasingly successful. Genetic diagnosis is important for accurate counseling of families. (J Child Neurol 1999;14:759-771).
An Open, Nonrandomized Clinical Comparative Study Evaluating the Effect of Epilepsy on Learning
Authors: Aldenkamp Albert P. , Overweg-Plandsoen Wouterina C.G. , Arends Johan
Published: January 2008

Children with epilepsy, as a group, have a greater risk for developing learning problems as comorbid disorders. It is unknown which factors contribute to the development of such learning problems; therefore, our current knowledge does not allow the prediction of educational delay in an individual child with epilepsy. This study aimed at excluding as many factors as possible that could interfere with the analysis of the impact of epilepsy on learning. From patients referred to us in 1997 (N = 123), children were included with mild global learning impairment, defined as educational delay between 6 months and 1 year and no other apparent reason for learning impairment except for epilepsy (ie, excluding children with dyslexia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or mental handicap). A total of 44 patients fulfilled this criterion: 31 also had epilepsy (experimental group); the remaining 13 patients with similar mild learning impairment but without epilepsy were used as controls. In the experimental group two subgroups were distinguished on the basis of onset of learning impairment: in group A ( n = 17) the learning problems are not unexpected as they were preceded by mild developmental delay; in group B ( n = 14) the problems are unexpected and had a sudden onset. The two experimental groups differed from the control group on a number of variables, such as gender and the incidence of perinatal complications. More differences have been found between the two experimental groups: group B is selected from a larger group: all children with mild global learning impairment with sudden onset. In this group considerably more children with epilepsy have been found compared to the children with developmental delay; moreover the epilepsy is more often characterized in these children as "unexpected," that is, there was no previous established diagnosis of epilepsy, the symptoms were mostly unclear and behavioral in make-up (attentional lapses, etc); the electroencephalogram plays a much greater role in the diagnosis in this group, especially in demonstrating seizures; finally, the children in this group more frequently have neuropsychologic impairment. Children with epilepsy can have mild global learning difficulties, especially in the period after the onset of seizures. This group can be divided in a group with "trait-dependent learning difficulties," that is learning difficulties based on developmental delay, and a group with "state-dependent learning difficulties." The focus in our study was on this latter group, consisting of children with sudden and unexpected decline of results in school. The crucial finding in this group is the relatively frequent demonstration of difficult-to-detect seizures, demonstrating that an uncontrolled epilepsy can cause a decline in school results even when the seizures are of short duration and have subtle symptoms. (J Child Neurol 1999;14:795-800).
The in vivo Biodegradation of Nylon 6 Utilized in a Particular IUD
Authors: Hudson John A. , Crugnola Aldo
Published: January 2008

The particular IUD of this study was composed of a plastic shield and a nylon 6 coated filament tail string. This IUD was unique, in the fact that its tail string was the only one (and has been to date) that consisted of a coated multifilament arrangement. Studies on the tail string have revealed bacteria and debris existing between the outer filaments that are underneath the coating. Other studies have reported that removed devices were found to exhibit an unusually high incidence of breaks in the tail string coating. Studies at the University of Lowell also found that upon examination of devices that had been in vivo for periods of two years or longer, 67% of these devices examined had breaks in the coating of the tail string. Investigations have determined that the design of the tail string was serving as an avenue of transport for the bacteria to bypass the protective cervical mucus barrier and enter the sterile uterine cavity through the breaks in the tail string coating. This mechanism has been suggested to account for the higher frequency of uterine infections associated with this device.

Research at the University of Lowell was undertaken to study the degradation of the nylon 6 coating and to determine the in vivo degradation mechanism. The biochemistry of the fluids present in the reproductive tract were carefully documented and the more aggressive ones selected for in vitro trials. The results of the study revealed that the in vivo physical breakdown of the coating may depend upon a series of mechanisms and variables.
Inhibition of Platelet Adhesion to Glow Discharge Modified Surfaces
Authors: Sharma Chandra P. , Chandy Thomas , Sunny M.C.
Published: January 2008

Plasma glow technique has created much interest in the field of surface modification of polymers due to its versatility of generating active polar groups on the surface without affecting the bulk properties. Here an attempt is made to inter-relate the surface properties and platelet adhesion on various polymeric substrates due to plasma treatments. Initially, a critical review of the process and development of thrombosis upon contact of an artificial surface with blood, has been provided, which has been extended with the need for surface modifications to improve their blood compatibility and the versatility of plasma treatments for such modifications have been emphasized.

Phospholipids like phosphoryl choline, phosphatidyl choline and phosphoryl ethanolamine were attached to Angioflex surface by plasma glow. The role of such modified substrates to interact with platelets were investigated using Tyrode washed calf platelets. It seems, glow discharge modified phosphoryl choline bilayers dramatically inhibited the platelet-surface binding, which may be due to their biochemical resemblance with thromboresistant surfaces of human blood cells. Further, the behaviour of all phospholipids towards blood-polymer interaction is not similar and may change depending on the nature of their functional groups, net charge of the phospholipid adsorbed surface and their interaction with platelets and its activation. It is possible to chemically immobilize lipid bilayers on standard polymers, using plasma glow, to improve their biological performance; by suitably selecting the phospholipid combinations.
Dentin Bonding Agents—A Perspective on Research and Clinical Use
Authors: Erickson Robert L.
Published: January 2008

The last several years have shown remarkable advances in the development of dentin bonding agents. Today, a majority of dentists routinely use dentin bonding agents in clinical practice. Yet, despite this widespread acceptance, these materials are still in their infancy and require improvements in their performance as well as an understanding of their adhesion mechanisms. Bond strengths to dentin are sufficient to prove useful but are less than needed for totally reliable results. Furthermore, problems related to polymerization shrinkage of composite restorative materials can compromise the bond to dentin resulting in decreased adhesion and marginal seal. Better materials are now being developed, but, in the meantime, limitations of the current materials should be understood and respected in clinical application.
Mechanisms and Clinical Relevance of Bacterial Adhesion to Polymers
Authors: Jansen B. , Peters G. , Pulverer G.
Published: January 2008

The mechanisms of bacterial adhesion to polymers with regard to their significance in the development of foreign-body infections are discussed. The morphological, physico-chemical and biological aspects are treated with special emphasis on the adhesion of coagulase-negative staphylococci to medical polymers. Strategies for the prevention of bacterial adhesion to biomaterials by developing antiadhesive polymers are given.
New Type of Hydrogel for Controlled Drug Delivery
Authors: Stoy Vladimir A.
Published: January 2008

The new type of hydrogel system (which is known under the trademark HYPAN™), is described in some detail here, emphasizing its grades and those properties potentially useful in controlled drug delivery systems. HYPAN hydrogels are distinguished by a physical network of crystalline clusters which fully replace the covalent network typical of other hydrogels. As a result, HYPAN hydrogels can be processed by a number of methods unusual for hydrogels, such as extrusion, injection molding and the like.

The crystalline network also provides HYPAN with improved mechanical properties at higher water contents, which in turn allows for higher permeabilities of aqueous solutes. The combination of improved mechanical properties and permeabilities with improved processability and good biocompatibility is believed to open some new possibilities in targeted and controlled drug delivery.

This paper is written as an overview of the compositions, structures and essential properties of HYPAN materials. It will soon be followed by more detailed studies in selected areas.
UDEL® Polysulfone for Medical Applications
Authors: Dickinson B.L.
Published: January 2008

There is no more demanding application of a polymer than medical uses. Polysulfone engineering resins combine high strength with long-term resistance to repeated steam sterilization. These polymers have proven successful as alternatives to stainless steel and glass.

Medical grade polysulfones are biologically inert, display unique long-life under sterilization procedures, can be transparent or opaque in any color and are resistant to most common hospital chemicals.
Physical Chemical Description of Bacterial Adhesion
Authors: Van Loosdrecht Mark C.M. , Norde W. , Zehnder A.J.B.
Published: January 2008

For the description of general bacterial adhesion phenomena two different physicochemical approaches are available. The first one, based on a surface Gibbs energy balance, assumes intimate contact between the interacting surfaces. According to this approach adhesion is solely related to the Gibbs energies of the surfaces involved. The second approach, based on colloid chemical theories (DLVO theory), allows for two types of adhesion: 1. secondary minimum adhesion, which is often weak and reversible, and 2. irreversible primary minimum adhesion. In the first case a thin water film is present between the interacting surfaces. In the DLVO approach adhesion is determined by long range interactions, i.e., Van der Waals and electrostatic interactions. Van der Waals interactions may be related to the hydrophobicity of the cell wall. For the measurement of bacterial hydrophobicity and electrokinetic potential several macroscopic methods are available. Based on a literature review of the influence of both surface characteristics on adhesion, it is concluded that the surface Gibbs energy balance approach is not adequate to describe the majority of adhesion phenomena. On the other hand the DLVO-theory describes the observations fairly well, especially in the case of reversible (secondary minimum) adhesion. The influence of adsorbing (in)organic compounds, extracellular polymers and cell surface appendages on adhesion can also be predicted by a DLVO-type approach.
Adherence of Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci onto Polyethylene Catheters in vitro and in vivo: A Study on the Influence of various Plasma Proteins
Authors: Brokke P. , Dankert J. , Carballo J. , Feijen J.
Published: January 2008

Bacterial adherence on PE catheters inserted into the carotid artery of rabbits was assessed at 5, 30, and 240 min after injection with bacteria of five coagulase-negative staphylococci (CN Staph). These studies revealed that CN Staph adhere onto PE catheters 5 min after injection with bacteria. At 240 min after injection with bacteria almost all catheters were sterile, indicating that initially adherent bacteria on PE catheters disappear with time. EM studies revealed high numbers of platelets and leukocytes and many fibrin
A Pathological Study of Arterial Prostheses Surgically Excised after Overt Clinical Infection
Authors: Chakfe Nabil , Guidoin Robert , Marois Michel , Roy Paul-Emile , Douville Yvan , Roy Paul , Batt Michel , Gosselin Camille
Published: January 2008

Infection caused regarding vascular grafts in vascular surgery still remains a major problem. To reduce this problem and the complications which follow, the surgeon must be able to apply the best surgical management and also be confident with the vascular substitute used. There are two important factors to be considered: the biomaterial must have low propensity to infection and good stability if and when infected.

In an attempt to verify this problem, 93 vascular grafts surgically excised for overt infection were examined. Techniques used for examinations were gross morphology, histopathology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) evaluation.

There were 23 human umbilical vein (HUV) grafts, 51 Dacron grafts and 19 expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) grafts.

Histopathological signs of infection were absent in 57% of the ePTFE and Dacron grafts and in 17.4% of the HUV grafts. The latter were more heavily histologically infected and in some cases the walls were destructed.

Histopathological signs of infection were seen on all the prosthetic walls in 36% of all the specimens and were mainly on the external portion of the grafts for the remaining prostheses.

Bacteria were seen in respectively 21.7, 15.7 and 20% of the HUV, Dacron and ePTFE grafts with the Gram stain and in 86.9, 84.3 and 94.7% with SEM.

The implantation period was shorter for the bioprostheses compared to that of the synthetic grafts because of the site and the indication of implantation. The stability of the bioprostheses was lower compared to that of the synthetic grafts when infected, leading to a breakdown of the wall along the length of the graft. The infection was found on the external capsule of the grafts rather than on the luminal surface.
Time Course of Wound Healing
Authors: Wokalek Heinrich , Ruh Helga
Published: January 2008

Wound healing is a special kind of inflammation. Undisturbed wound healing is subject to a fixed time schedule of biochemical and cellular events. It is virtually impossible to deal with the time course of wound healing without describing the cellular and non-cellular events involved. The activity and mode of cell action after injury are coordinated by spatial and chronological factors, as well as by different mediators and cell-cell interacting signals. During wound healing the sequence of different signals and message substances, such as mediators of inflammation, fulfill a key function in wound repair. The report describes the time course of healing and the control of cellular events by different mediators and cell interactions. Emphasis is placed on temporal aspects, including the various signals leading to typical cellular events in wound healing.
Photochemical Coatings for the Prevention of Bacterial Colonization
Authors: Dunkirk S.G. , Gregg S.L. , Duran L.W. , Monfils J.D. , Haapala J.E. , Marcy J.A. , Clapper D.L. , Amos R.A. , Guire P.E.
Published: January 2008

Biomaterials are being used with increasing frequency for tissue substitution. Implantable, prosthetic devices are instrumental in the saving of patients' lives and enhancing the quality of life for many others. However, the greatest barrier to expanding the use of biomedical devices is the high probability of bacterial adherence and proliferation, causing very difficult and often untreatable medical-device centered infections. The difficulty in treating such infections results in great danger to the patient, and usually retrieval of the device with considerable pain and suffering. Clearly, development of processes that make biomedical devices resistant to bacterial adherence and colonization would have widespread application in the field of biomedical technology.

A photochemical surface modification process is being investigated as a generic means of applying antimicrobial coatings to biomedical devices. The photochemical process results in covalent immobilization of coatings to all classes of medical device polymers. A discussion of the photochemical surface modification process and preliminary results demonstrating the success of photochemical coatings in formulating microbial-resistant surfaces are presented in this paper.
Mandatory Biological Testing of Spictra Cardiotomy Reservoir
Authors: Rathinam K. , Mohanan P.V.
Published: January 2008

Disposable rigid Spictra Cardiotomy Reservoir is one of the units used in the extracorporeal techniques during open-heart surgery. It was designed, developed, and tested by different groups of our Institute as an indigenous product to offset the prohibitive cost of the imported one. The finished device was subjected to mandatory biological tests, such as pyrogen (in vivo rabbits and in vitro Limulus Amebocyte Lysate test) and sterility tests. It can be concluded from the case study that the device deemed to have passed the test for apyrogenicity and sterility.
Factor Analysis in the Evaluation of the Relationship between Bacterial Adherence to Biomaterials and Changes in Free Energy
Authors: Carballo J. , Ferreiros C.M. , Criado M.T.
Published: January 2008

The relative surface charge and free energy of forty-one coagulase-negative staphylococci were found to be normally distributed; therefore, they can be considered a homogeneous group under strict statistical criteria. The adherence of these bacteria to eight different biomaterials (seven synthetic and one biologic) was found to be independent of charge and variations in free energy during adhesion. Adherence can be explained as a thermodynamic process (free energy decreased with adherence), except in the case of bovine pericardium in which free energy increases. With these biomaterials, a correlation was found between adherence and bacterial charge. Bacterial adherence and bacterial charge correlate with the surface parameters of the biomaterials. This correlation does not occur when the relationships between parameters are evaluated by means of factors analysis, thus indicating the importance of the statistical method selected for the evaluation of bacterial adherence.
Photografting of Albumin onto Dimethyldichlorosilane-Coated Glass
Authors: Tseng Y.-C. , Kim J. , Park K.
Published: January 2008

4-Azido-2-nitrophenyl albumin (ANP-albumin) was prepared by displacing the fluoro group of 4-fluoro-3-nitrophenyl azide (FNPA) by an amino group of albumin. Photolysis of phenyl azides of ANP-albumin was studied by Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The band of phenyl azide disappeared completely after a 12-min exposure to long wave UV light (366 nm), and the photolysis was first-order. Albumin was grafted onto dimethyldichlorosilane-coated glass (DDS-glass) by photolysis of the azido groups of ANP-albumin without any premodification of the surface. The albumin-grafted DDS-glass was characterized by determining the relative amount of nitrogen resulting from the grafted albumin on the surface using electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). The amount of nitrogen increased when the concentration of ANP-albumin in the adsorption solution increased up to 0.1 mg/ml. As the solution concentration increased above this value, the amount of nitrogen decreased. The platelet resistance of the albumin-grafted surfaces was evaluated by measuring the number of adherent platelets and the extent of activation that was quantitated by the area of platelets spread on the surfaces. The maximum platelet-resistant effect was observed when the ANP-albumin was adsorbed for more than 50 min at the solution concentration ranging from 0.05 to 10 mg/ml.
Relationship of Surface Characteristics to Cellular Attachment in PU and PHEMA
Authors: Kiremitçi Menemşe , Peşmen Arzu , Pulat Mehlika , Gürhan Ismet
Published: January 2008

Adhesion characteristics of fibroblastic Baby Hamster Kidney (BHK) cells and epithelial Madine Darby Kidney (MDBK) cells on polyurethane (PU) and polyhydroxyethylmethacrylate (PHEMA) based surfaces have been studied. PU surfaces were prepared by a classical solvent-casting procedure of Pellethane® solution that contains different types of solvents, i.e., THF, dioxane and their compositions. PHEMA based surfaces were obtained by bulk polymerization of respective comonomers (HEMA, acrylic acid, AA, and dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate, DMAEMA) in the presence of the crosslinker. Thus, a number of polymeric surfaces were obtained with different surface charges (COO- and NH+ 4) and with different surface free energies in a range between 60-82 ergs/cm2. Surface properties of these membranes were characterized by equilibrium water contents, air and octane contact angles, surface free energies, SEM photographs and ATR-FTIR spectra. Interactions of BHK and MDBK cells with the surfaces were examined in stationary culture conditions which were carried out in MEM supplemented with fetal calf serum. The observations strongly suggested that the chemical and/or physical properties of membrane surface and morphology of the cell control the degree of cell adhesion to the PU and PHEMA based membranes.
Bioactive Polymers 68-Controlled Release of Neomycine-Furazolidone Bicomponent System from Xanthan Hydrogel
Authors: Dumitriu Severian , Popa Marcel I. , Dumitriu Maria , Dumitriu Daniela , Tara Alina
Published: January 2008

The neomycine-furazolidone-xanthan complex has been synthesized. Neomycine is covalently linked to xanthan, while furazolidone is inserted in the hydrogel formed by the reaction between neomycine and xanthan. The content of neomycine and furazolidone depends on the drug rate in the reaction medium. Thus, a zero-order kinetics is obtained for the release of both neomycine and furazolidone in basic medium. The complex's antimicrobial activity is intensified.
Physical Properties and Testing Methods for PTFE Cardiovascular Patches
Authors: Kowligi Rajagopal R. , Taylor Howard H. , Wollner Stacy A.
Published: January 2008

Patching after endarterectomy, especially carotid artery surgery, is a common procedure to repair and close the surgical site. Both synthetic and natural materials can be used, but saphenous vein is preferred due to its greater long-term patency. In situations where it is not possible to use the saphenous vein, both Dacron and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) patches have been used successfully. Expanded PTFE patches are readily available, soft and pliable, have excellent biocompatibility and do not require preclotting prior to implantation. Comparison of two types of ePTFE patches versus natural vessel show that they have more than adequate properties for their intended use.
Surface Micromorphology and Cellular Interactions
Authors: Meyle J. , Wolburg H. , Von Recum A.F.
Published: January 2008

Contact guidance induced by the topographical properties of the underlying substratum is of great importance in morphogenesis and also in- fluences the interaction of tissue cells with implanted material. A large body of evidence has accumulated since the first detection of this phenomenon in 1910. Several major hypotheses have been developed to explain the observed cell behaviour. The technological progress enabled researchers to produce pure substrata with a defined and controlled surface microgeometry. Based on these specimens, it could be demonstrated that cytoskeletal structures and receptors forming focal adhesions most likely are involved in contact guidance.

In a study using human gingival fibroblasts, the reaction of these cells to a regular surface microstructure of 1 μm pitch and 1 μm depth was tested. After two days on the microstructured samples, all the cells showed a strong alignment to the topography of the surface. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the cells either bridged the grooves or conformed to the surface structures. The latter confirms earlier investigations with porous subcutaneous implants, where the inflammatory reaction and the formation of a fibrous tissue capsule was reduced due to enhanced tissue adhesion.
Melanized Poly(HEMA) Hydrogels: Basic Research and Potential Use
Authors: Chirila Traian V.
Published: January 2008

Synthetic melanogenesis, using epinephrine and other melanin precursors, within the matrix of hydrophilic polymers and copolymers of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate resulted in hydrogels able to absorb ultraviolet and visible radiation. This significantly enhances their value as materials for extraocular (contact lenses) or intraocular (artificial crystalline lenses) devices that should protect the retina of aphakic patients from potential damage induced by light. The two-phase morphology of melanized hydrogels, as investigated by TEM, revealed a fine structure that is possibly indicative of a true sequential interpenetrating polymer network. Their biocompatibility was evaluated by a set of different assays involving human choroidal fibroblasts. No cytotoxicity was found in the aqueous extracts of materials. By using an assay with cells and polymers embedded in a collagen gel, a short-range toxic effect was detected, presumably caused by melanin itself. However, in vivo experiments in animal eyes with melanized hydrogel intraocular lenses did not reveal any toxic reaction.
Study of a Reagent- and Mediatorless Biosensor for D-Amino Acids Based on Co-Immobilized D-Amino Acid Oxidase and Peroxidase in Carbon Paste Electrodes
Authors: Johansson Elisabeth , Marko-Varga György , Gorton LO
Published: January 2008

A biosensor for the analysis of D-amino acids is described. Carbon paste (graphite/paraffin oil) was chemically modified with immobilized D-amino acid oxidase and either horse-radish peroxidase or fungal peroxidase from Arthromyces ramosus. The two enzymes dissolved in buffer, together with an amine containing oligomer or polymer, were adsorbed on dry graphite. Prior to immobilization, the graphite was heat treated at 700°C for 15 s to promote an efficient electron transfer between graphite and the peroxidase. The mixture was dried before addition of the pasting liquid. The sensor is based on the fact that the hydrogen peroxide produced by the action of D-amino acid oxidase is electrocatalytically reduced through the action of the peroxidase. The amine containing compound acted as a stabilizer and activator of the enzymes in the paste. The enzyme electrode was investigated as a sensor for D-phenylalanine and hydrogen peroxide in a flow through electrochemical cell connected to a single line flow injection system. The influences on the response by different additives to the paste and pH are reported. Linear calibration curves were obtained between 0.1 and 1.4 mM for D-phenylalanine and 5 and 1000 μM for hydrogen peroxide at an applied potential of -50 mV vs. Ag/AgCl. The sensor was also active for the following D-amino acids: D-alanine, D-valine, D-leucine, D-isoleucine, D-serine, D-aspartic acid, D-glutamic acid, D-lysine, D-histidine, D-arginine, D-tryptophan, D-methionine, and D-proline.
Hydrogel Grafted Polymer Surfaces: Interaction and Morphology of Platelets
Authors: Hari P.R. , Ajithkumar B. , Sharma Chandra P.
Published: January 2008

Besides the quantification of platelet adhesion, the morphology of adherent platelets on a polymer surface seems to be important as far as thrombogenicity is concerned. It is suggested that such events usually take place on a layer of adsorbed proteins on the surface of the blood. In the present study, we observed the morphological variation of adherent calf platelets (in vitro under static conditions) on bare and hydrogel-grafted Angioflex sheets. Electron micrographs indicate the extent of deformation of the Angioflex sheets varying with modified substrates as compared to the bare sheets.
Immunology of Silicone Breast Implants
Authors: Kossovsky Nir , Freiman Charles J.
Published: January 2008

Understanding the immunology of silicone breast implants, at present, consists of reconciling an increasingly large body of data with an older, established, but otherwise unsubstantiated theory. Despite the variety of silicone breast implants, there are nevertheless certain phenomena that occur with all silicone gel-filled devices. Recent clinical findings suggest that in some patients, silicone will act as an adjuvant on native macromolecules and render them immunogenic. The purpose of this review is to highlight biophysical and clinical phenomena that warrant further investigation.
Effect of Controlled Local Acetylsalicylic Acid Release on in vitro Platelet Adhesion to Vascular Grafts
Authors: Hall John D. , Rittgers Stanley E. , Schmidt Steven P.
Published: January 2008

Thrombosis is the most serious acute problem for small diameter arterial bypass grafts. In this research, small diameter expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) vascular grafts were coated with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) loaded poly (d,1-lactide) (PLA) by a solvent casting method. The feasibility and efficacy of this approach were evaluated by ASA release studies and platelet adhesion tests. First, the ASA release kinetics were evaluated from the ASA/PLA coated vascular grafts in an in vitro steady flow loop model. ASA release was measured by a spectrophotometric technique. Finally, the efficacy of local ASA release to reduce in vitro canine platelet adhesion to grafts was determined with epifluorescent video microscopy and quantitative image analysis. The steady state release rates from the 5%, 10%, and 15% ASA/PLA coated grafts were 13.2 × 10-5, 32.0 × 10-5, and 41.5 × 10-5 μg/cm2. sec, respectively. Platelet adhesion to 10% and 15% ASA/PLA coated grafts was reduced with respect to the control and 5% grafts for 10 days. Platelet adhesion to 5% ASA/ PLA coated grafts was reduced with respect to controls at 2 and 10 days, but not initially.
Histological Assessment of Sintered Metal- Fibre-Web Materials
Authors: Jansen J.A. , Van't Hof M.A.
Published: January 2008

Recently it has been shown that flexible metal fibre mesh structures can be used for the subcutaneous stabilisation of percutaneous devices. However, for the safe application of fibre mesh structures, it is necessary that these materials possess certain biological properties. The purpose of this paper is to discuss surgical, statistical and histological methods for the testing and evaluation of metal fibre web materials for soft tissue application. The use and potential of the described techniques are demonstrated with two examples.
Part I: Expanding the Definition of the Normative Order to Include Dress Norms
Authors: Workman Jane E. , Freeburg Elizabeth W.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to present a current sociological definition of the normative order and then use reported deficiencies in the definition as a basis for proposing an expanded definition. The proposed expansion of Blake and Davis's (1964) definition is as follows: The normative order consists of shared standards or rules which specify what human beings should or should not think, say, or do, and how human beings should or should not look under given circumstances. Additionally, in Part I, we demonstrated how the expanded definition allows identification of the shared norms that comprise a normative order for dress and the eight dimensions along which they vary. This paper provides evidence from late twentieth century newspapers that there is a normative order for dress in our society that can be identified and documented using the expanded definition. The expanded definition of the normative order does not solve all the deficiencies in the current definition but does address some and suggests ways of addressing others.
Part II: Testing the Expanded Definition of A Normative Order
Authors: Workman Jane E. , Freeburg Elizabeth W.
Published: January 2008

The purpose of Part II was to test the empirical applicability of an expanded definition of normative order by demonstrating how a process of social control operates to regulate compliance with the normative order for dress. Researchers examined daily newspapers to identify attempts at social control manifested in overt behavior involving dress in late twentieth century U.S. society. Steps two through six in Schwartz and Ewald's (1968) six-phase model of the process of social control provided the framework for the investigation. An observational procedure was used to identify norms, violations of norms, and sanctions. Reasons for violations of norms were documented and illustrated. Sanctions associated with violations of dress norms were enumerated and classified by their interrelated dimensions. The expanded definition is more robust and more powerful than the original definition because it suggests avenues of inquiry that have not yet been explored and offers a technique to explore them. The technique provided empirical data which begins to alleviate a deficiency in empirical evidence of the operation of social control of a normative order for dress. The expanded definition in conjunction with the process of social control offers a parsimonious paradigm for framing and determining voids in existing research.
Korean Households' Clothing Expenditures by Categories
Authors: Park Sung-Sin , Widdows Richard
Published: January 2008

Demand equations are estimated for 10 categories of clothing expenditure using Korean Expenditure Survey data for 1996. Separate equations are estimated with total consumer expenditure and disposal income respectively as proxies for household income. Results reveal sufficient differences in sign and magnitude of regression coefficients between clothing categories to warrant the disaggregation of clothing expenditure. Of particular interest is the demand for Korean traditional costume, which is distinct in several ways. Results are of interest to marketers and others interested in further understanding the Korean market.
Self-Schema or Self-Discrepancy? Which Best Explains Body Image?
Authors: Jung Jaehee , Lennon Sharron J. , Rudd Nancy A.
Published: January 2008

We investigated the discrepancy between women's actual and ideal appearance and its relationship to body image, mood, and self-esteem. In a two-part experimental design, 88 college women completed measures of appearance self-discrepancy and appearance self-schema. Two weeks later they were exposed to 16 photos of attractive media images and subsequently completed measures of mood, body image, and self esteem. One-way between subjects multivariate and univariate analyses of variance revealed that appearance self-discrepancy was related to all the body image variables and self-esteem, but not to the mood variables. Appearance self-schema may better explain body image than appearance self-discrepancy. Results are discussed in light of self-discrepancy theory, schema theory, and the Rudd and Lennon (1994) model of body aesthetics.
Selected Body Measurements of Women Aged Sixty-five and Older
Authors: Patterson Carol A. , Warden Jessie
Published: January 2008

One-hundred fourteen white and 91 black women volunteers from Tallahassee, Florida, senior citizen's activity centers were studied to determine if elderly ambulatory women are adequately represented in the garment-sizing system. Thirty-three body measurements were taken on each subject, whose ages ranged from 65 to 96, with a mean of 73.912. Statistical analyses of these 33 measurements used descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson Product Moment Correlations (r), factor analysis, partial correlations, and multiple regressions. Of the 33 measurements, 25 were significantly different from body measurements in the O'Brien and Shelton 1941 study on which the present system of sizing standards is based. Among those found to be dissimilar were bust, waist, abdominal extension, and hip girth measurements. Statistical analysis yielded body measurements that could be used as key indices for reliably predicting other body measurements. From these indices, five alternative sizing systems were developed: heightlweight, heightlbust, weight/waist height, bust/waist height, and abdominal extension/waist height. One horizontal and one vertical measurement were selected for each sizing system.
Hydrophilic Finishes: Effect on Selected Properties of Polyester Fabric
Authors: Janecek Coila , Lunde Helen
Published: January 2008

Polyester fabric treated with four hydrophilic finishes was evaluated on the basis of soil release and resistance to soil redeposition when laundered with and without fabric softener. Test methods AATCC 130-1977 Soil Release, Oily Stain Release Method and AATCC 151-1977 Resistance to Soil Redeposition were used to evaluate effectiveness of the finishes for those properties. Soil release performance was rated high for the fabrics with hydrophilic finishes when laundered with and without fabric softener. Durability of the finished fabrics through 20 launderings was satisfactory. The finishes varied in resistance to soil redeposition. Fabric softener significantly improved soil redeposition performance of all the finished fabrics. There was a tendency for finishes to lose effectiveness in resistance to soil redeposition as launderings progressed. The unfinished fabric (control) performed poorly for both soil release and soil redeposition when laundered without fabric softener but improved considerably when fabric softener was used.
The Rise and Fall of It All: The Hemlines and Hiplines of the 1920s
Authors: Richards Lynne
Published: January 2008

That the hemline of women's daytime costume became increasingly elevated during the 1920s, and that this costume often evidenced stylistic emphasis around the anatomical hipline, are two traditional concepts promulgated by most costume historians. In the current investigation, 1,978 women's daytime fashion illustrations, published within Good Housekeeping between February 1920 and December 1929, were measured to test the accuracy of these often communicated beliefs. While the data did substantiate that hemlines rose and hiplines were emphasized during the 1920s, it was noted that the actual transitional movements of these two style details, as plotted by the results of the study, were not so simply described. Hemlines, for example, lengthened during 1922 and 1923, before beginning an upward trend in 1924, reaching the most elevated position in 1927. A relatively stable period ensued until October 1929, when the dress skirt again began to grow longer. Thus, the publication of longer skirts predated the stock market crash of October 29, 1929, by approximately one month. Similarly, the specific location of waist/hip emphasis dropped between the years of 1920 and 1925, thereafter followed by a gradual rise. A modest inverse relationship was noted between the fluctuating positions of the waist/hip design features and hemline locations. It was discovered that data collected from sketched fashion illustrations reflected slightly more exaggerated versions of a concurrent style than did data collected from photographs.