bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volatile compounds of experimental liver pâté from pigs fed conjugated linoleic acid in combination with monounsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Martin Diana , Antequera Teresa , Muriel Elena , Perez‐Palacios Trinidad , Ruiz Jorge
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Feeding conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) to pigs leads to CLA‐enriched meat products, which are of current interest owing to the potential health properties of CLA. However, dietary CLA increases the ratio of saturated to monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in pig tissues. Combining CLA with high MUFA levels in pig diets may counteract this effect. Owing to the modification of fatty acid composition, variation in the volatile profile of derived meat products might be expected. The aim of the present work was to study the volatile profile, and its change during storage, of experimental liver pâté manufactured from pigs fed different levels of CLA and MUFA.

RESULTS: Regardless of the CLA or MUFA level, 98 compounds were identified. Lower area units were observed for most branched aldehydes, ketones and alcohols and some furans, sulfur compounds and nitrogen compounds with increasing CLA and MUFA contents. Levels of nonanal, propan‐2‐one, dodecane, 2‐pentylfuran and ethylbenzene were higher in CLA pâtes. The effect of experimental diets on the change in volatiles during storage was not significant.

CONCLUSION: Supplementation of pig diets with CLA isomers in combination with low or high MUFA levels seems to have a significant effect on the volatile profile of pork liver pâté. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Ammonium‐Based Cellulose Solvents Suitable for Homogeneous Etherification
Authors: Köhler Sarah , Liebert Tim , Heinze Thomas
Published: July 2009

New ammonium‐based cellulose solvents with triethylmethylammonium‐ and tributylmethylammonium cations and carboxylate anions were synthesized and investigated as potential solvents for cellulose. Triethylmethylammonium formate was found to dissolve cellulose. Small amounts of formic acid may be used to adjust the melting point of the organic salt and can increase the dissolution velocity of cellulose. Carboxymethylation as a common etherification reaction was investigated in the new ammonium‐based system. The watersoluble carboxymethyl cellulose obtained, had a degree of substitution as high as 1.55. An unconventional pattern of substitution was accessible.

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Dispersion of TiO2 Particles in PET/PP/TiO2 and PET/PP/PP‐g‐MA/TiO2 Composites Prepared with Different Blending Procedures
Authors: Li Wenjing , Karger‐Kocsis József , Schlarb Alois K.
Published: July 2009

2 vol.‐% TiO2 particles were incorporated into PET/PP blends with and without MA‐grafted PP compatibilizer. During extrusion of the PET/PP/TiO2 composites the TiO2 particles migrated from the PP matrix to the PET‐dispersed phase irrespective of the blending route. For the PET/PP/PP‐g‐MA/TiO2 composites, however, the location of TiO2 depended on the blending sequence. The preferred location of the TiO2 nanoparticles was confirmed by SEM pictures taken from the chemically etched surface of the blends. The observed migration behavior was traced to differences in the interfacial tensions between TiO2 and PET and TiO2 and PP, and to TiO2 encapsulation in one of the blend components during the related blending procedure.

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Coherent sequences of polynomial ideals on Banach spaces
Authors: Carando Daniel , Dimant Verónica , Muro Santiago
Published: July 2009

This article deals with the relationship between an operator ideal and its natural polynomial extensions. We define the concept of coherent sequence of polynomial ideals and also the notion of compatibility between polynomial and operator ideals. We study the stability of these properties for maximal and minimal hulls, adjoint and composition ideals. We also relate these concepts with conditions on the underlying tensor norms (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Universal abelian covers of superisolated singularities
Authors: Stevens Jan
Published: July 2009

We give explicit examples of Gorenstein surface singularities with integral homology sphere link, which are not complete intersections. Their existence was shown by Luengo–Velasco, Melle–Hernández and Némethi, thereby providing counterexamples to the universal abelian covering conjecture of Neumann and Wahl (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The size of the Julia set of meromorphic functions
Authors: Mayer Volker
Published: July 2009

We give a lower bound of the hyperbolic and the Hausdorff dimension of the Julia set of meromorphic functions of finite order under very general conditions (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Characterization of a novel C8 phasic muscle stretch reflex
Authors: Baker Steven K.
Published: July 2009

Muscle stretch reflexes (MSRs) are fundamental to the neurologic examination. Although the fifth, sixth, and seventh cervical roots have appropriate and easily elicited MSRs, the C8 level does not. The C8 reflex is obtained by tapping the thenar eminence, which produces flexion at the interphalyngeal joints of the fingers. To confirm that finger flexion represented an MSR, an externally triggered hammer‐skin contact set‐up was employed. Surface recording electrodes were placed at one third of the distance between the medial epicondyle and ulnar styloid. This montage produced distinct T‐waves with latencies compatible with a reflex arc. Normative data were collected for 75 healthy subjects (150 arms), including 15 from each of five age groups (20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, ≥60 years). Distance 1 (D1) was measured from the FPL to the C7 spinous process and distance 2 (D2) from C7 to the G1 electrode. A high median neuropathy abolished the T‐wave. A distal median nerve block at the carpal tunnel had no effect. Mean latencies (± SD) from the respective age groups were as follows: 21.73 ± 1.16 ms; 22.50 ± 1.70 ms; 22.19 ± 1.52 ms; 22.66 ± 2.13 ms; and 23.97 ± 1.91 ms. Reflex latencies significantly correlated with age (r = 0.33, P = 0.004), height (r = 0.51, P < 0.0001), and D1 + D2 or arc length (r = 0.74, P < 0.0001). This novel MSR is generated from the FPL tendon and stimulates contraction of the long finger flexors. It therefore represents a clinically useful C8 MSR. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Pericardial effusion with cardiac tamponade as a cardiac manifestation of duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Lin Jainn‐Jim , Hwang Mao‐Sheng , Hsia Shao‐Hsuan , Chung Hung‐Tao , Chang Yu‐Sheng , Lin Kuang‐Lin
Published: July 2009

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most common hereditary neuromuscular disease in children. It is an X‐linked hereditary dystrophinopathy due to the absence of dystrophin. Its onset is often in early childhood and presents with proximal distribution of weakness and a progressive course. Cardiac involvement in DMD is common, and its onset is usually after the age of 10 years. The most common cardiac manifestations are a dilated cardiomyopathy and cardiac arrhythmia. However, pericardial effusion with cardiac tamponade is a very rare cardiac complication of DMD. We report a boy with DMD who initially presented with progressive dyspnea and an enlarged cardiac silhouette on chest radiography who subsequently developed a large pericardial effusion with cardiac tamponade. Early recognition of pericardial effusion with cardiac tamponade is important for institution appropriate therapy. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Dermatomyositis with inclusion body myositis pathology
Authors: Layzer Robert , Lee Han Sung , Iverson Donald , Margeta Marta
Published: July 2009

The pathogenic role of inflammation in inclusion body myositis (IBM) remains uncertain. A 63‐year‐old man developed a severe, rapidly progressive myopathy with clinical features typical of dermatomyositis (DM), but muscle pathology was typical of IBM. Treatment with prednisone and methotrexate resulted in complete remission of symptoms. Together with two similar cases reported previously, this case suggests that the inflammatory process of DM may trigger the pathologic changes of IBM. Muscle Nerve, 2009
Numerical solution of the Helmholtz equation in an infinite strip by Wiener‐Hopf factorization
Authors: Lucia Marcello , Maggio Fabio , Rodriguez Giuseppe
Published: July 2009

We describe an algorithm to compute numerically the solution of the Helmholtz equation: Δu + κu = f, u ∈ H01(S), where S is an infinite strip and κ a given bounded function. By using the finite difference approximation on the entire strip, we are led to solve an infinite linear system. When κ is constant the associated matrix is block Toeplitz and banded and the system can be solved using a Wiener‐Hopf factorization. This approach can also be adapted to deal with the case when κ is constant outside a bounded domain of the strip. Numerical results are given to assess the performance of our method. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 2010
He's homotopy perturbation method for solving Korteweg‐de Vries Burgers equation with initial condition
Authors: Inc Mustafa
Published: July 2009

In this article, we present the Homotopy Perturbation Method (Shortly HPM) for obtaining the numerical solutions of the Korteweg‐de Vries Burgers (KdVB) equation. The series solutions are developed and the reccurance relations are given explicity. The initial approximation can be freely chosen with possibly unknown constants which can be determined by imposing the boundary and initial conditions. The results reveal that HPM is very simple and effective. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 2010
Refill adherence and polypharmacy among patients with type 2 diabetes in general practice
Authors: van Bruggen Rykel , Gorter Kees , Stolk Ronald P. , Zuithoff Peter , Klungel Olaf H. , Rutten Guy E.H.M.
Published: July 2009

Background and Aims

Non‐adherence is considered a major barrier to better outcomes of diabetes care. A relationship has been established between polypharmacy and patients' adherence. This study aims to investigate the occurrence of polypharmacy and non‐adherence in general practice, their mutual relationship and the association between adherence and the intermediate outcomes of diabetes care.

Materials and Methods

We used the baseline and follow‐up data of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) that compared usual care with care in accordance with a locally adapted national guideline. This study took place in the Netherlands and involved 30 general practices and 1283 patients. We obtained a complete medication profile of all participants and calculated the number of prescribed drugs and the adherence indices (AI) for oral blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol lowering drugs. Patients with an adherence index < 0.8 were considered non‐adherent. Clustering at practice level and case‐mix were taken into account.

Results

Approximately 80% of the participating patients demonstrated an adherence index ≥ 0.8 for oral blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol lowering drugs. In the intervention group, increase of drug prescriptions exceeded that of controls (1.1 ± 2.0 vs. 0.6 ± 1.5, p < 0.001, adjusted p < 0.05). There was evidence of an inverse relationship between the number of drugs that had been prescribed during the last 6 months of the study and patients' adherence to blood pressure lowering medications (adjusted OR 0.84, 95%CI 0.78–0.91). After one year, HbA1c and total cholesterol levels were significantly lower in adherent patients.

Conclusion

During the intervention the mean number of drug prescriptions increased in both the study groups. This did not result in a lower adherence to blood glucose and cholesterol lowering medications. Given the relationship between the number of medications and patients' adherence to blood pressure lowering drugs, it may be wise to discuss adherence before prescribing multiple drug regimens. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of grafted polytetrafluoroethylene fibers and adsorption of bilirubin
Authors: Han Xiao‐yan , Zhang Zheng‐pu
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: A successful hemoperfusion technique requires that the adsorbent for bilirubin should have a high specificity, adsorption capacity and adsorption rate, blood compatibility and no toxicity. Compared with polymer microbeads, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fibers have many advantages. The aim of the work reported here was to prepare a new polytetrafluoroethylene‐graft‐poly(glycidyl methacrylate)‐block‐polyethyleneimine (PTFE‐g‐PGMA‐b‐PEI) adsorbent for bilirubin based on PTFE fibers by the 60Co radiation‐induced graft polymerization of GMA followed by the chemical modification of the epoxy groups on the PTFE‐g‐PGMA fibers with PEI. In addition, the adsorption properties of this novel adsorbent for bilirubin were examined.

RESULTS: The highest content of amino groups obtained on the PTFE‐g‐PGMA‐b‐PEI fibers was 1.87 mmol g−1. The maximum adsorption capacity of the grafted fibers was 9.6 mg g−1 at pH = 6.5. Bilirubin adsorption on these fibers obeyed the Langmuir model. Also, these fibers possessed the ability to selectively adsorb bilirubin in the presence of bovine serum albumin.

CONCLUSION: The PTFE‐g‐PGMA‐b‐PEI fibers have a high adsorption capacity for bilirubin and excellent adsorption properties. In addition, this new adsorbent is inexpensive, easy to prepare and has no toxicity. So the PTFE‐g‐PGMA‐b‐PEI fibers as a biomedical adsorbent are promising for the removal of bilirubin through the hemoperfusion technique. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation of albumin–ferrite superparamagnetic nanoparticles using reverse micelles
Authors: Bellusci Mariangela , La Barbera Aurelio , Seralessandri Luca , Padella Franco , Piozzi Antonella , Varsano Francesca
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Micellar systems are widely applied as reactors to encapsulate inorganic nanoparticles in polymeric materials. However, only low inorganic contents and microscale dimensions are often achieved.

RESULTS: The adsorption of albumin protein on ferrite nanoparticles permits to increase the stability of inorganic dispersions in water by inhibiting particle flocculation. Subsequent glutaraldehyde addition induces protein crosslinking and ferrite entrapment. Polymer–ferrite composite nanoparticles were obtained in this way. The magnetic albumin nanoparticles (25 nm mean diameter) obtained contain about 40 wt% of ferrite and show superparamagnetic behaviour. The composite powder was successfully functionalized with a model drug and the biological activity was evaluated.

CONCLUSION: Using a reverse micelle approach, ferrite–albumin composite nanoparticles with a high inorganic content were obtained. The method permits the formulation of biocompatible magnetic particles of nanoscale dimensions. The exhibited superparamagnetic behaviour permits to hypothesize an application of the powder composite as a carrier in biomedical technologies. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Ionic IPNs as novel candidates for highly conductive solid polymer electrolytes
Authors: Shaplov Alexander S. , Goujon Laurent , Vidal Frédéric , Lozinskaya Elena I. , Meyer Franck , Malyshkina Inna A. , Chevrot Claude , Teyssié Dominique , Odinets Irina L. , Vygodskii Yakov S.
Published: July 2009

Five ionic imidazolium based monomers, namely 1‐vinyl‐3‐ethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (ILM1), 1‐vinyl‐3‐(diethoxyphosphinyl)‐propylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (ILM2), 1‐[2‐(2‐methyl‐acryloyloxy)‐propyl]‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (ILM3), 1‐[2‐(2‐methyl‐acryloyloxy)‐undecyl]‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (ILM4), 1‐vinyl‐3‐ethylimidazolium dicyanamide (ILM5) were prepared and used for the synthesis of linear polymeric ionic liquids (PILs), crosslinked networks with polyethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (PEGDM) and interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) based on polybutadiene (PB). The ionic conductivities of IPNs prepared using an in situ strategy were found to depend on the ILM nature, Tg and the ratio of the other components. Novel ionic IPNs are characterized by increased flexibility, small swelling ability in ionic liquids (ILs) along with high conductivity and preservation of mechanical stability even in a swollen state. The maximum conductivity for a pure IPN was equal to 3.6 × 10−5 S/cm at 20 °C while for IPN swollen in [1‐Me‐3‐Etim] (CN)2N σ reached 8.5 × 10−3 S/cm at 20 °C or 1.4 × 10−2 S/cm at 50 °C. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4245–4266, 2009
Noncovalently connected micelles based on a β‐cyclodextrin‐containing polymer and adamantane end‐capped poly(ε‐caprolactone) via host–guest interactions
Authors: Ren Shendong , Chen Daoyong , Jiang Ming
Published: July 2009

New random copolymers, poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone‐co‐mono‐6‐deoxy‐6‐methacrylate ethylamino‐β‐cyclodextrin) (PnvpCD) bearing pendent β‐cyclodextrin (CD) groups were synthesized. PnvpCD formed soluble graft‐like polymer complex with adamantane (AD) end‐capped poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PclAD) in their common solvent N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone driven by the inclusion interactions between the CD and AD groups. The formation of the graft complex has been confirmed by viscometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and isothermal titration calorimeter. The graft complex self‐assembled further into noncovalently connected micelles in water, which is a selective solvent for the main chain PnvpCD. Transmission electron microscopy, DLS, and atomic force microscopy have been used to investigate the structure and morphology of the resultant micelles. A unique “multicore” structure of the micelles, in which small PclAD domains scattered within the micelles, was obtained under nonequilibrium conditions in the preparation. However, the micelles prepared in a condition close to equilibrium possess an ordinary core‐shell structure. In both cases, the core and shell are believed to be connected by the AD‐CD inclusion complexation. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4267–4278, 2009
Anionic amphiphilic end‐linked conetworks by the combination of quasiliving carbocationic and group transfer polymerizations
Authors: Kali Gergely , Georgiou Theoni K. , Iván Béla , Patrickios Costas S.
Published: July 2009

A series of amphiphilic end‐linked conetworks was synthesized by the combination of two “quasiliving” polymerization techniques, quasiliving carbocationic (QLCCP) and group transfer polymerizations (GTP). The hydrophobic monomer was polyisobutylene methacrylate synthesized by the QLCCP of isobutylene and subsequent terminal modification reactions. The hydrophilic monomer was methacrylic acid (MAA) introduced via the polymerization of 2‐tetrahydropyranyl methacrylate followed by acid hydrolysis after (co)network formation. The conetwork syntheses were performed by sequential monomer/crosslinker additions under GTP conditions. All the precursors and the extractables from the conetworks were characterized by gel permeation chromatography and 1H NMR. The resulting polymer conetworks were investigated in terms of their degree of swelling (DS) in aqueous media and in tetrahydrofuran (THF) over the whole range of ionization of the MAA units and in n‐hexane for uncharged conetworks. The DSs in water increased with the degree of ionization (DI) of the MAA units and the hydrophilic content in the conetwork, whereas the DSs in THF increased with the reduction of the DI of the MAA units. The effective pK of the MAA units in the conetworks increased from 8.4 to 10.5 with decreasing MAA content. These findings can facilitate the design of similar unique conetworks with adjustable swelling behavior and composition‐dependent pK values. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4289–4301, 2009
Polymerization of higher α‐olefins using a Cs‐symmetry hafnium metallocene catalyst. Kinetics of the polymerization and microstructural analysis
Authors: Kotzabasakis Vasilios , Kostakis Konstantinos , Pitsikalis Marinos , Hadjichristidis Nikos , Lohse David J. , Mavromoustakos Thomas , Potamitis Constantinos
Published: July 2009

The Cs‐symmetry hafnium metallocene [(p‐Et3Si)C6H4]2C(2,7‐di‐tert‐BuFlu)(C5H4)Hf(CH3)2 and tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl) borate dimethylanilinium salt ([B(C6F5)4]−[Me2NHPh]+) were used as the catalytic system for the polymerization of higher α‐olefins (from hexene‐1 to hexadecene‐1) in toluene at 0 °C. The evolution of the polymerization was studied regarding the variation of the molecular weight, molecular weight distribution and yield with time. The effect of the monomer structure on the polymerization kinetics was established. The role of trioctylaluminum in accelerating the polymerization was investigated. 13C NMR spectroscopy was used to study the microstructure of the poly(α‐olefins) by the determination of the pentad monomer sequences. The thermal properties of the polymers were obtained by differential scanning calorimetry, DSC. The results were discussed in connection with the polymer microstructure. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4314–4325, 2009
Plasma Processes Combined with Colloidal Lithography to Produce Nanostructured Surfaces for Cell‐Adhesion
Authors: Pistillo Bianca Rita , Gristina Roberto , Sardella Eloisa , Lovascio Sara , Favia Pietro , Nardulli Marina , d'Agostino Riccardo
Published: July 2009

The objective of the present work is to develop nanostructured surfaces by combining low pressure plasma process and colloidal lithography, with the aim of obtaining suitable substrates with predetermined ordered nanometric surface roughness and surface chemical composition. The chemical properties of the resulting nanostructures were characterized by means of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and water contact angle (WCA) measurements, their morphology was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effects of both chemistry and morphology on Saos‐2 osteoblast cell behavior was investigated.
Correlation between selenium concentrations and glutathione peroxidase activity in serum and human prostate tissue
Authors: Takata Yumie , Morris J. Steven , King Irena B. , Kristal Alan R. , Lin Daniel W. , Peters Ulrike
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND

Low serum selenium concentration has been associated with increased risk of prostate cancer. A possible mechanism is through the antioxidant activity of selenoenzymes. However, the effect of selenium intake on selenoenzymes at target tissues is not well established. Hence, we investigated the correlation between serum and prostate tissue selenium concentrations and prostate tissue activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPX), a major selenoenzyme with antioxidant properties.

METHODS

In an ongoing study investigating gene expression in prostate tissue, we measured serum selenium concentration in 98 men using atomic absorption spectrometry. Of these men, we selected 12 men with the highest and 12 men with the lowest serum selenium concentrations and measured selenium concentration and GPX activity in fresh frozen prostate tissue using the cyclic neutron activation analysis and a direct spectrophotometric procedure, respectively.

RESULTS

The mean serum selenium concentrations among low and high selenium groups were 123.7 ± 5.9 and 196.7 ± 16.6 µg/L (P < 0.0001), respectively. The corresponding mean prostate tissue selenium concentrations were 1.39 ± 0.28 and 1.65 ± 0.42 µg/g (P = 0.08), resulting in a positive correlation between serum and prostate tissue selenium concentrations (r = 0.56, P = 0.02). The mean prostate tissue GPX activity was non‐significantly greater in the low serum selenium group (32.2 ± 8.4 U/g protein) than in the high serum selenium group (29.6 ± 5.9 U/g protein) (P = 0.39) and it was not correlated with serum or prostate tissue selenium concentrations (r = −0.22, P = −0.37 for serum and r = −0.33, P = 0.18 for prostate tissue).

CONCLUSION

Serum and prostate tissue selenium concentrations were moderately correlated. In this population with relatively high selenium concentration, neither prostate tissue nor serum selenium concentrations were associated with prostate tissue GPX activity. Prostate 69: 1635–1642, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structural and functional studies of the potent anti‐HIV chemokine variant P2‐RANTES
Authors: Jin Hongjun , Kagiampakis Ioannis , Li Pingwei , LiWang Patricia J.
Published: July 2009

The N‐terminal region of the chemokine RANTES is critical for its function. A synthesized N‐terminally modified analog of RANTES, P2‐RANTES, was discovered using a phage display selection against living CCR5‐expressing cells, and has been reported to inhibit HIV‐1 env‐mediated cell–cell fusion at subnanomolar levels (Hartley et al. J Virol 2003;77:6637–6644). In the present study we produced this protein using E. coli overexpression and extensively studied its structure and function. The x‐ray crystal structure of P2‐RANTES was solved and refined at 1.7 Å resolution. This protein was found to be predominantly a monomer in solution by analytical ultracentrifugation, but a tetramer in the crystal. In studies of glycosaminoglycan binding, P2‐RANTES was found to be significantly less able to bind heparin than wild type RANTES. We also tested this protein for receptor internalization where it was shown to be functional, in cell–cell fusion assays where recombinant P2‐RANTES was a potent fusion inhibitor (IC50 = 2.4 ± 0.8 nM), and in single round infection assays where P2‐RANTES inhibited at subnanomolar levels. Further, in a modified fusion assay designed to test specificity of inhibition, P2‐RANTES was also highly effective, with a 65‐fold improvement over the fusion inhibitor C37, which is closely related to the clinically approved inhibitor T‐20. These studies provide detailed structural and functional information for this novel N‐terminally modified chemokine mutant. This information will be very useful in the development of more potent anti‐HIV agents. PDB Accession Number: 2vxw. Proteins 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and characterization of PET/Fish Gelatin–nanoclay composite/LDPE laminate
Authors: Bae Ho J. , Park Hyun J. , Darby Duncan O. , Kimmel Robert M. , Whiteside William S.
Published: July 2009

A three‐layer laminate film was developed with the following structure: polyethylene terephthalate (PET)/fish gelatin (FG)–nanoclay composite/low‐density polyethylene (LDPE). The FG–nanoclay composite material functioned as the oxygen barrier layer and demonstrated comparable oxygen barrier properties when compared with a similar laminate utilizing ethylene vinyl alcohol as the barrier layer at a relative humidity (RH) of up to 50%. The introduction of nanometer‐sized filler clay into the FG matrix lowered the oxygen permeability (OP) because of the tortuosity effect of the clay particles. In addition, the FG–nanoclay composite film exhibited bond strengths similar to both LDPE and PET. The hydrophilic nature of FG significantly increases OP under high (>50%) RH conditions. However, this new FG laminate film could be a possible alternative for packaging designers desiring a more sustainable packaging material for low‐RH (<50%) applications. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of cognitive systems engineering in the systems engineering design process
Authors: Militello Laura G. , Dominguez Cynthia O. , Lintern Gavan , Klein Gary
Published: July 2009

The article is intended to aid students and consumers of Cognitive Systems Engineering (CSE) in learning about CSE. A proliferation of terms describing CSE and related constructs makes it difficult to sort out differences and similarities across approaches. To aid the reader in exploring CSE, we examine areas of confusion surrounding CSE, define CSE, and discuss the role of CSE in the systems engineering design process. We advocate the use of CSE principles and methods as a means to incorporate worker needs, expertise, cognitive demands, constraints, and goals throughout the design process. Articulation of the value case for CSE is offered as a vehicle to foster collaboration across disciplines. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng
A novel use of neural network model to determine the effects of multibiomarker on early health damage among Chinese steel workers
Authors: Shi Xiu‐Quan , Yang Xiao‐Bo , Wang Zhong‐Xu , Qiu Li , Wu Tang‐Chun , Wang Zeng‐Zhen
Published: July 2009

Coke‐oven workers are exposed to many kinds of pollutants that can cause health damage even lead to carcinogenesis. Therefore, it is critical to identify biomarkers that predict early health damage in these exposed individuals in molecular epidemiological studies. We applied an artificial neural network (ANN) model to the identification of such predictors in a study of coke‐oven workers. The study included 330 steel‐factory workers who were exposed to different levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the workplace and their levels of early health damage were determined by cytokinesis‐block micronuclei (CMN), heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) expression, benzo(a)pyrene diolepoxide‐albumin adduct (BPDE‐AA), and olive tail moment (OTM). The ANN model was built to predict the early health damage index, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to illustrate the judged criteria and the ANN model. Trend Chi‐square modeling was also performed. We found that there were 55 subjects with early health damage among 330 workers based on the multibiomarker criteria using the 95 percentile of the control group as the cut‐off value, while there were 22–35 positive subjects if screening by any single biomarker. The Cochran‐Armitage trend test for these findings were statistically significant (Z = 3.21, P = 0.0013). Six variables were selected to simulate the ANN model. The area under ROC (AUROC) was 0.726 ± 0.037 (P < 0.001), and the predictors included workplace, cholesterol, waistline, and others. Therefore, collective using CMN frequency, Hsp70 level, BPDE‐AA level, and OTM with equal weights to make an initial screening test for early health damage in coke‐oven workers is feasible and superior to any single biomarker. The determinants of the effects of multibiomarker on early health damage screening can be identified by the ANN model and ROC curve method. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 26: 1–9, 2011.
Study of the properties of compatibilized ABS/PA6 blends using response surface methodology
Authors: Mohammadian‐Gezaz Somayyeh , Ghasemi Ismaeil , Oromiehie Abdolrasosl
Published: July 2009

Styrene‐(maleic anhydride) copolymer (SMA) compatibilized blends of acrylonitrile‐butadiene rubber (ABS) and polyamide 6 (PA6) with a variety of compositions and compatibilizer levels were prepared at various screw speeds in a corotating twin screw extruder. A Box–Behnken model for three variables, with three levels, was chosen as an experimental design, and the mechanical properties of the blends were considered as the responses. Each response was analyzed and formulated versus the considered factors by the use of response surface methodology. Impact resistance increased with increased SMA concentration and reduced screw speed. In compatibilized samples, with an increase in PA6 content, higher impact resistance was observed. Increasing PA6 content and SMA concentration, as well as decreasing screw speed, gave improvements in both tensile and flexural strengths. In each case, all of the correlations among factors were studied. Grafting of SMA was proved by detecting the graft copolymer (SMA‐PA6) formed through extraction in formic acid and FTIR spectroscopy. Compared with uncompatibilized blends, compatibilized samples displayed more uniform and finer particle sizes, thereby proving the compatibilizing effect of the graft copolymer. The asymmetry trend in dispersed particle size before and after the phase inversion became more differentiated in the presence of the compatibilizer. Adding SMA lowered the phase inversion composition (based on PA6), whereas higher screw speed increased it. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Copolymerization of pyrrole and vinyl acetate in aqueous and aqueous/nonaqueous media
Authors: Eisazadeh Hossein , Ghorbani Mohsen
Published: July 2009

Pyrrole/(vinyl acetate) copolymer was prepared in aqueous and aqueous/nonaqueous media by the copolymerization of vinyl acetate and pyrrole using FeCl3/(NH4)2S2O8 and FeCl3/(benzoyl peroxide) as oxidants in the presence of various surfactants such as sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, poly(ethylene glycol), and hydroxypropylcellulose. The copolymer was characterized in terms of conductivity, morphology, particle size, glass transition temperature, and molecular structure. The results indicated that the morphology, particle size, glass transition temperature, and conductivity of the product were dependent on the types of surfactant and solvent media used. The molecular structure and glass transition temperature of the product were studied by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
CCN3: a key growth regulator in Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia
Authors: McCallum Lynn , Lu Wanhua , Price Susan , Lazar Noureddine , Perbal Bernard , Irvine Alexandra E.
Published: July 2009

Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) is characterized by expression of the constitutively active Bcr‐Abl tyrosine kinase. We have shown previously that the negative growth regulator, CCN3, is down‐regulated as a result of Bcr‐Abl kinase activity and that CCN3 has a reciprocal relationship of expression with BCR‐ABL. We now show that CCN3 confers growth regulation in CML cells by causing growth inhibition and regaining sensitivity to the induction of apoptosis. The mode of CCN3 induced growth regulation was investigated in K562 CML cells using gene transfection and treatment with recombinant CCN3. Both strategies showed CCN3 regulated CML cell growth by reducing colony formation capacity, increasing apoptosis and reducing ERK phosphorylation. K562 cells stably transfected to express CCN3 showed enhanced apoptosis in response to treatment with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, imatinib. Whilst CCN3 expression was low or undetectable in CML stem cells, primary CD34+ CML progenitors were responsive to treatment with recombinant CCN3. This study shows that CCN3 is an important growth regulator in haematopoiesis, abrogation of CCN3 expression enhances BCR‐ABL dependent leukaemogenesis. CCN3 restores growth regulation, regains sensitivity to the induction of apoptosis and enhances imatinib cell kill in CML cells. CCN3 may provide an additional therapeutic strategy in the management of CML.
Preliminary Experience with Anterior Interbody Titanium Cage Fusion for Treatment of Cervical Disc Disease
Authors: Lin Chung‐Nan , Wu Yu‐Chuan , Wang Nai‐Phon , Howng Shen‐Long
Published: July 2009

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of titanium cage implants in cervical reconstruction to treat cervical spondylosis. Surgical data covered a 4‐year period from January 1999 to December 2002 and included 34 consecutive patients, 20 men and 14 women, with ages ranging from 27 to 84 years (mean, 57 years). Patients underwent anterior cervical microdiscectomy followed by interbody fusion with a titanium cage implant (rather than an autogenous iliac crest bone graft) at a single level ranging from C3 to C7. Twenty‐one patients had a herniated intervertebral disc, nine had degenerative disc disease, and four had previous failed autograft fusion surgery that required revision. At clinical presentation, 26 patients had neck pain, 23 had radiculopathy, and nine had myelopathy. Diagnostic imaging studies included spinal dynamic roentgenography, computerized tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. Lesions were located at C3‐4 in seven cases, C4‐5 in 14 cases, C5‐6 in nine cases, and C6‐7 in four cases. The follow‐up period ranged from 7 to 48 months (mean, 26 months). Results revealed that the procedure was technically feasible. There were no intra‐ or postoperative complications. The most commonly used cage was 9 mm high. Imaging studies showed no cage instability, migration, or pseudarthrosis. Although mild subsidence (< 5 mm) was observed in three cases, these patients preserved adequate postoperative cervical lordosis and the subsidence did not preclude a good clinical result. The advantages of this procedure over a similar operation using traditional tricorticate bone graft are: no graft morbidity; shorter operation time (mean time saved, 35 minutes); reduced blood loss (average blood loss, 75 mL); and early postoperative ambulation (mean, 4.7 hospital days). Nearly all patients rapidly lost their neck pain (92%, 24/26) and radicular symptoms (87%, 20/23) after surgery. The recovery rate from myelopathy was 44% (4/9). Progressive bony shield formation over the anterior/posterior cortex (sentinel sign) indicated fusion in five cases.
Factors Related to Satisfaction with Body Image in Children Undergoing Chemotherapy
Authors: Wu Li‐Min , Chin Chi‐Chun
Published: July 2009

This cross‐sectional correlational study explored factors related to satisfaction with body image in children undergoing chemotherapy. We recruited 118 children with cancer undergoing chemotherapy at three medical centers. Subjects ranged from 6 to 18 years old (mean, 10.8 years). Most had leukemia, were in the first to third grade of elementary school, and had their mother as the primary caregiver. Two structured questionnaires were used, the Body Image Scale (part I, Cronbach's α = 0.82; part II, Kuder‐Richardson‐20 = 0.86) and Social Support Scale (family part, Cronbach's α = 0.88; nurses part, Cronbach's α = 0.91). Satisfaction with body image was significantly related to gender, age, education level, and the frequency of changes in appearance caused by chemotherapy. Girls felt more dissatisfied than boys. Satisfaction with body image was lower in older children, in children with a high level of education or in those with more frequent changes in appearance. Significant predictors of subjects' satisfaction with body image were gender, education level, and appearance‐related side effects of chemotherapy, which accounted for 23.3% of total variance. These findings suggest that the family and nurses should pay more attention to teenagers who perceive changes in their appearance and help them to develop a positive body image. Furthermore, it is essential that a new scale to measure social support about body image is developed in future studies.
Long‐term Follow‐up of Partial Thrombosis of the Superior Mesenteric Vein in a Cirrhotic Patient with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hsieh Men‐Shun , Lin Zu‐Yau , Chuang Wan‐Long , Chang Wen‐Yu
Published: July 2009

Superior mesenteric venous thrombosis (SMVT) is an uncommon but potentially life‐threatening disorder. We describe a cirrhotic patient with hepatocellular carcinoma who had partial SMVT for at least 28 months. Our experience may help in the management of such patients. The partial SMVT was not treated at the time of discovery because there was no evidence of bowel infarction. Moreover, the patient had a tendency to bleed severely and was in a poor condition. SMVT was followed using regular ultrasonography and the pattern of SMVT did not change significantly during the follow‐up period. A symptom that may have been related to SMVT was abdominal colic pain after meals, which was sometimes followed by diarrhea and/or nausea and vomiting. There was no evidence of bowel ischemia or infarction during follow‐up. Abdominal discomfort can be successfully treated using anticholinergic drugs with or without analgesia.
Prenatal Diagnosis of an Adrenal Cyst: A Case Report
Authors: Maa Hung‐Chune , Weng Wei‐Che , Tsai Hsiu‐Nan
Published: July 2009

We report a rare case of fetal adrenal cyst, diagnosed prenatally during routine ultrasound screening at 36 weeks' gestation. Serial ultrasonographic evaluations demonstrated a slight increase in the size of the cyst during pregnancy. A healthy female baby, weighing 2,810 g with Apgar scores of 8 and 9 at 1 and 5 minutes, respectively, was delivered vaginally at term. She underwent successful surgery at the age of 10 days. The postoperative course was smooth and the baby is currently doing well. Histology revealed an adrenal cyst.
Alström Syndrome with Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report
Authors: Wu Wen‐Chih , Chen Shinn‐Cherng , Dia Chia‐Yen , Yu Ming‐Lung , Hsieh Ming‐Yuh , Lin Zu‐Yau , Wang Liang‐Yen , Tsai Jung‐Fa , Chang Wen‐Yu , Chuang Wan‐Long
Published: July 2009

We report the case of a 21‐year‐old female with Alström syndrome who also suffered from acute pancreatitis of obscure manifestation. The patient had underlying cone‐rod dystrophy of the retinas, nystagmus, obesity, progressive sensorineural hearing impairment, diabetes mellitus, and hypertriglyceridemia, compatible with the clinical diagnosis of Alström syndrome. Serial examinations showed liver dysfunction and pancreatitis. In treating a patient with poor communication (i.e. cone‐rod dystrophy and hearing impairment) suffering from acute illness, understanding the underlying disease and the potential for pancreatitis with hypertriglyceridemia is necessary. It is also a challenge to treat a patient with multiple system involvement. In conclusion, Alström syndrome is a disease of systemic multi‐organ involvement, and hepatic disease and pancreatitis, possibly due to dyslipidemia, appear to be manifestations of Alström syndrome.
Acute Psychotic State due to Hyperthyroidism Following Excision of a Mandible Bone Tumor: A Case Report
Authors: Yang Shang‐Ju , Wang Shin‐Yaw , Chen Cheng‐Chung
Published: July 2009

The etiology of psychotic symptoms that emerge following surgery needs to be sought to allow physicians to provide effective treatment. We present the case of a patient who developed hyperthyroidism shortly after excision of a mandible bone tumor and discuss its clinical features, course, and management. A 48‐year‐old female without previous thyroid disease accidentally found a tumor over her left mandible bone and underwent excision of the tumor. Soon after surgery, she suffered from anxiety, mood swings, insomnia, and even auditory hallucinations. Through careful differential diagnosis and a series of examinations, she was shown to be in a hyperthyroid state. Her condition improved after short‐term use of haloperidol, lithium, and methimazole. Her thyroid function recovered and she was free from any psychiatric symptoms during the 1‐year follow‐up. Hyperthyroidism following surgery is not uncommon and its possibility should be considered when making differential diagnoses.
Topographic Study of Extracted Molars with Advanced Furcation Involvement: Furcation Entrance Dimension and Molar Type
Authors: Hou Guey‐Lin , Hung Chun‐Cheng , Tsai Chi‐Cheng , Chen Ping‐Ho , Yang Yi‐Hsin , Shieh Tien‐Yu
Published: July 2009

This study investigated the topography of the furcation entrance dimension (FED) on molars with advanced furcation involvement (FI). The sample pool consisted of 169 maxillary and mandibular molars from a group of 165 individuals with severely advanced periodontal destruction. The subjects included men and women aged 24 to 84 years (mean, 47.8 ± 7.2 years). The FEDs of the maxillary buccal, mesial, and distal surfaces as well as the mandibular buccal and lingual surfaces were measured under a stereomicroscope and clarified into grades I (FED < 0.55 mm), II (0.55‐0.75 mm), and III (> 0.75 mm) using automatic grading system software designed by our research associates. The differences and relationships among molar location, furcation site, and FED grade were analyzed using the chi‐square test. There was a significant difference among buccal (BFED), mesial (MFED), and distal (DFED) FEDs in both the maxillary first (χ24 = 58.915, p < 0.001) and second (χ24 = 66.839, p < 0.001) molars. The relationship between molar type and FED grade was statistically significant for both the BFED (p < 0.001) and the DFED (p < 0.001) of maxillary molars, as well as for both the BFED (p < 0.0001) and LFED (p < 0.0001). The difference in FED grade between the first and second molars was statistically significant in both maxillary (p < 0.001) and mandibular (p < 0.0001) molars. There was a significant relationship between FED grade and tooth location at molars with advanced FI.
Management of Low‐Flow Priapism Using the Winter Procedure: A Case Report
Authors: Chen Chung‐Chin , Wang Chii‐Jye , Lee Yung‐Chin , Chou Yii‐Her , Huang Chun‐Hsiung , Chen Chi‐Wen
Published: July 2009

Priapism is a prolonged penile erection that is unrelated to sexual stimulation. Low‐flow priapism has been associated with sickle cell disease and other hemoglobinopathies, neoplastic syndrome, anticoagulant therapy, psychotropic medication, and idiopathic causes. We report the successful treatment of idiopathic low‐flow priapism using the Winter procedure. Initial treatment consisted of aspiration and intracavernous irrigation with iced saline and a vasoconstrictive agent, but in vain. We then performed the Winter procedure, in which fistulas between the corpora cavernosa and the glans penis were created. This resulted in the simultaneous detumescence of the penis, without complication. The erectile function of the penis was normal 1 year after the procedure. This case shows that idiopathic low‐flow priapism can be successfully treated using the Winter procedure when conservative treatment fails.
Leiomyoma of the Urinary Bladder: A Case Report
Authors: Chen Chung‐Chin , Huang Chun‐Hsiung , Chu Chang‐Hung , Su Chin‐Ming , Chou Yii‐Her , Chai Chee‐Yin , Shih Ming‐Chen
Published: July 2009

Leiomyoma of the urinary bladder is a rare tumor and constitutes 35% of benign mesenchymal bladder tumors. Herein, we report a case of leiomyoma of the bladder. A 32‐year‐old female was incidentally found to have an abnormal bladder mass on abdominal ultrasound during work‐up for infertility. Bimanual examination then revealed a mass on the right side near the bladder neck area. On cystoscopic examination, an external compression mass covered with normal bladder mucosa could be seen at the right lateral wall. Computerized tomography revealed a homogeneous solitary tumor protruding into the urinary bladder from the right lateral wall without enlarged lymph nodes. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an intraluminal round mass at the right aspect of the urinary bladder, leading to suspicion of an intramural neurogenic or mesenchymal tumor. Surgical exploration was performed via a lower midline incision and a 5.0 × 4.5 × 2.2 cm mass was excised. The pathologic diagnosis was leiomyoma of the bladder. We discuss the diagnosis and management of leiomyoma of the bladder and briefly review the literature.