bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymeric drug based on sulfanilamide: synthesis, antimicrobial and drug releasing studies
Authors: Reddy C Umamaheswara , Amalraj A , Reddy B S R , Arun A
Published: September 2007

N-((4-amino sulfonyl)phenyl)acrylamide (APA) was synthesized using sulfanilamide and acryloyl chloride in the presence of triethyl amine at 0–5°C. Homo- and co-polymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA) and acrylic acid (AA) were done by adopting a solution polymerization technique using methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) as a solvent and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as a free radical initiator at 70+1°C. All the monomers and polymers were characterized by IR and NMR techniques. These monomers and polymers were tested for their antimicrobial activity against five different ATCC strain microorganisms (Escherichia coli (25922), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (27853), Klebsiella (70063), Salmonella typhi (6539) and Staphylococcus aureus (25923)). The effect of co-monomer, other than the active drug moiety present in the polymeric drug, is discussed. The antimicrobial activity of APA on Gram-positive bacteria was enhanced when copolymerized with AA and HEA. The polymer was made into a film form and that film was used for drug releasing study. The drug releasing rate was monitored by the absorption at 268 nm using a UV spectrophotometer. The effect of pH and the temperature on the drug releasing rate was monitored and found that the releasing rate was dependent on the co-monomer, pH and temperature of the medium.
Biotransformation and mass balance of tipranavir, a nonpeptidic protease inhibitor, when co-administered with ritonavir in Sprague-Dawley rats
Authors: Macha Sreeraj , Chen Linzhi , Norris Stephen H , Philip Elsy , Mao Yanping , Silverstein Helga , Struble Craig , Beers Wendy
Published: September 2007

In this study, tipranavir (TPV) biotransformation and disposition when co-administered with ritonavir (RTV) were characterized in Sprague–Dawley rats. Rats were administered a single intravenous (5 mg kg−1) or oral (10 mg kg−1) dose of [14C]TPV with co-administration of RTV (10 mg kg−1). Blood, urine, faeces and bile samples were collected at specified time-points over a period of 168 h. Absorption of TPV-related radioactivity ranged from 53.2–59.6%. Faecal excretion was on average 86.7% and 82.4% (intravenous) and 75.0% and 82.0% (oral) of dosed radioactivity in males and females, respectively. Urinary excretion was on average 4.06% and 6.73% (intravenous) and 9.71% and 8.28% (oral) of dosed radioactivity in males and females, respectively. In bile-duct-cannulated rats, 39.8% of the dose was recovered in bile. After oral administration, unchanged TPV accounted for the majority of the radioactivity in plasma (85.7–96.3%), faeces (71.8–80.1%) and urine (33.3–62.3%). The most abundant metabolite in faeces was an oxidation metabolite R-2 (5.9–7.4% of faecal radioactivity, 4.4–6.1% of dose). In urine, no single metabolite was found to be significant, and comprised <1% of dose. TPV when co-administered with RTV to rats was mainly excreted in feces via bile and the parent compound was the major component in plasma and faeces.
Effect of a leukotriene inhibitor (MK886) on nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide production by macrophages of acutely and chronically stressed mice
Authors: Sforcin José Maurício , Nunes Gladston A , Missima Fabiane , Sá-Nunes Anderson , Faccioli Lúcia H
Published: September 2007

We evaluated the effect of a leukotriene inhibitor (MK886) on nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production by peritoneal macrophages of mice subjected to acute and chronic stress. Acute stress was induced by keeping mice immobilized in a tube for 2 h. Chronic stress was induced over a 7-day period by the same method, but with increasing duration of immobilization. The effects of MK886 were investigated in-vitro after incubation with peritoneal macrophages, and in-vivo by submitting mice to stress and treating them daily with MK886. Supernatants of macrophage cultures were collected for NO determination and adherent cells were used for H2O2 determination. Macrophages from mice submitted to acute or chronic stress showed no alterations in H2O2 production. However, macrophages of acutely and chronically stressed mice showed inhibition of NO after incubation with MK886 in-vitro. Administration of MK886 to chronically stressed mice increased generation of H2O2 and inhibited production of NO. Our data suggest an important role of leukotrienes in NO synthesis, which is important in controlling replication of several infectious agents, mainly in stressed and immunosuppressed animals.
Role of intestinal efflux transporters in the intestinal absorption of methotrexate in rats
Authors: Yokooji Tomoharu , Yumoto Ryoko , Nagai Junya , Takano Mikihisa , Yokooji Tomoharu , Murakami Teruo
Published: September 2007

The role of intestinal efflux transporters such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and multidrug resistance-associated proteins (MRPs) in intestinal absorption of methotrexate was examined in rats. In everted intestine, the mucosal efflux of methotrexate after application to serosal side was higher in jejunum than ileum, and the efflux in jejunum was suppressed by pantoprazole, a BCRP inhibitor, and probenecid, an MRP inhibitor, but not by verapamil, a P-gp inhibitor. The mucosal methotrexate efflux in ileum was suppressed by pantoprazole, but not by other inhibitors. On the other hand, the serosal efflux of methotrexate after application to mucosal side was greater in ileum than jejunum, and was suppressed by probenecid. In in-vivo rat studies, the intestinal absorption of methotrexate was significantly higher when methotrexate was administered to ileum than jejunum. Pantoprazole increased methotrexate absorption from jejunum and ileum. Probenecid increased the absorption of methotrexate from jejunum but decreased the absorption from ileum, as evaluated by peak plasma methotrexate levels. In conclusion, BCRP and MRPs are involved in the regional difference in absorption of methotrexate along the intestine, depending on their expression sites.
Immunolocalization of IL-17A, IL-17B, and Their Receptors in Chondrocytes During Fracture Healing
Authors: Kokubu Takeshi , Haudenschild Dominik R. , Moseley Timothy A. , Rose Larry , Reddi A. Hari
Published: September 2007

Fracture healing in long bones is a sequential multistep cascade of hemostasis, transient inflammation, chemotaxis of progenitor cells, mitosis, differentiation of cartilage, and replacement with bone. This multistep cascade is orchestrated by cytokines and morphogens. Members of the interleukin (IL)-17 family, including IL-17B, have been identified in cartilage, but their expression during fracture healing is unknown. In this study, we determined the immunolocalization of cytokines IL-17A and IL-17B, along with the IL-17 receptor (IL-17R) and IL-17 receptor-like protein (IL-17RL), during the sequence of fracture repair in a standard model. The results were extended to developmental changes in the epiphyseal growth plate of long bones. Members of the IL-17 family were localized in chondrocytes in the fracture callus. Moreover, we found significant parallels to the localization of these cytokines and their receptors in chondrocytes during an endochondral differentiation program in the epiphyseal growth plate.
Essential Role of Mitochondrial Function in Adiponectin Synthesis in Adipocytes
Authors: Koh Eun Hee , Park Joong-Yeol , Park Hye-Sun , Jeon Min Jae , Ryu Je Won , Kim Mina , Kim Sun Young , Kim Min-Seon , Kim Seung-Whan , Park In Sun , Youn Jang Hyun , Lee Ki-Up
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE—Adiponectin is an important adipocytokine that improves insulin action and reduces atherosclerotic processes. The plasma adiponectin level is paradoxically reduced in obese individuals, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. This study was undertaken to test the hypothesis that mitochondrial function is linked to adiponectin synthesis in adipocytes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We examined the effects of rosiglitazone and the measures that increase or decrease mitochondrial function on adiponectin synthesis. We also examined the molecular mechanism by which changes in mitochondrial function affect adiponectin synthesis.

RESULTS—Adiponectin expression and mitochondrial content in adipose tissue were reduced in obese db/db mice, and these changes were reversed by the administration of rosiglitazone. In cultured adipocytes, induction of increased mitochondrial biogenesis (via adenoviral overexpression of nuclear respiratory factor-1) increased adiponectin synthesis, whereas impairment in mitochondrial function decreased it. Impaired mitochondrial function increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and agents causing mitochondrial or ER stress reduced adiponectin transcription via activation of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) and consequent induction of activating transcription factor (ATF)3. Increased mitochondrial biogenesis reversed all of these changes.

CONCLUSIONS—Mitochondrial function is linked to adiponectin synthesis in adipocytes, and mitochondrial dysfunction in adipose tissue may explain decreased plasma adiponectin levels in obesity. Impaired mitochondrial function activates a series of mechanisms involving ER stress, JNK, and ATF3 to decrease adiponectin synthesis.
Studies in 3,523 Norwegians and Meta-Analysis in 11,571 Subjects Indicate That Variants in the Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 4α (HNF4A) P2 Region Are Associated With Type 2 Diabetes in Scandinavians
Authors: Johansson Stefan , Ræder Helge , Eide Stig Å , Midthjell Kristian , Hveem Kristian , Søvik Oddmund , Molven Anders , Njølstad Pål Rasmus
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE— Recent publications have found an association between common variants near the hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4A) P2 promoter and type 2 diabetes in some populations but not in others, and the role for HNF4A in type 2 diabetes has remained unclear. In an attempt to address these inconsistencies, we investigated HNF4A single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a large population-based sample and included a meta-analysis of published studies.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We genotyped 12 SNPs in the HNF4A region in a Norwegian population–based sample of 1,644 individuals with type 2 diabetes and 1,879 control subjects (the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study [HUNT] 2). We combined our data with all previously published case/control studies and performed a meta-analysis.

RESULTS— Consistent with initial studies, we found a trend toward association for the SNPs rs1884613 (odds ratio [OR] 1.17 [95% CI 1.03–1.35]) and rs2144908 (1.21 [1.05–1.38]) in the P2 region and for rs4812831 (1.21 [1.02–1.44]), located 34 kb downstream of the P2 promoter. Meta-analysis, comprising 12,292 type 2 diabetic case and 15,519 control subjects, revealed a nonsignificant OR of 1.05 (95% CI 0.98–1.12) but with significant heterogeneity between the populations. We therefore performed a subanalysis including only the data for subjects from Scandinavia. Among the 4,000 case and 7,571 control Scandinavian subjects, a pooled OR of 1.14 (1.06–1.23), P = 0.0004, was found for the SNP rs1884613.

CONCLUSIONS— Our results suggest that variation in the HNF4A region is associated with type 2 diabetes in Scandinavians, highlighting the importance of exploring small genetic effects in large, homogenous populations.
Aberrant Endometrial Features of Pregnancy in Diabetic NOD Mice
Authors: Burke Suzanne D. , Dong Hongmei , Hazan Aleah D. , Croy B. Anne
Published: September 2007

OBJECTIVE—Pregnant diabetic women are at a 4–12 times higher risk for preeclampsia, an urgent acute-onset complication of mid- to late gestation, than normal pregnant women. Hallmarks of preeclampsia are hypertension, proteinuria, and incomplete modification of endometrial spiral arteries. Transient proangiogenic lymphocytes called uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are implicated in human and rodent spiral artery modification. We studied mid- to late gestations in spontaneously type 1 diabetic NOD mice to investigate whether diabetes alters uNK cell homing and/or function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Normoglycemic, pre-diabetic, and diabetic NOD mice and controls were mated. Lymphocytes and endometrial endothelium and decidua were studied histologically and in functional assays.

RESULTS—Conception accelerated progression to overt diabetes in NOD females who had limited spiral artery development, heavier placentas, and lighter fetuses displaying numerous birth defects compared with controls. UNK cell numbers were reduced in the decidua basalis of diabetic females, whereas interferon-γ production was elevated. In diabetic NOD mice, decidual expression of the mucosal vascular addressin cell adhesion molecule (MAdCAM)-1 was aberrant in position, whereas vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1 expression was reduced. Assays of lymphocyte adhesion to tissue sections under shear forces indicated that diabetes compromises the potential homing functions of both endometrial endothelium and peripheral NK cells.

CONCLUSIONS—In diabetes, gestational endometrium has immune and vascular defects that likely contribute to murine fetal loss and birth defects. Analogous problems and preeclampsia in diabetic women may involve similar mechanisms.
Role of Low Energy Expenditure and Sitting in Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, Type 2 Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Hamilton Marc T. , Hamilton Deborah G. , Zderic Theodore W.
Published: September 2007

It is not uncommon for people to spend one-half of their waking day sitting, with relatively idle muscles. The other half of the day includes the often large volume of nonexercise physical activity. Given the increasing pace of technological change in domestic, community, and workplace environments, modern humans may still not have reached the historical pinnacle of physical inactivity, even in cohorts where people already do not perform exercise. Our purpose here is to examine the role of sedentary behaviors, especially sitting, on mortality, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome risk factors, and obesity. Recent observational epidemiological studies strongly suggest that daily sitting time or low nonexercise activity levels may have a significant direct relationship with each of these medical concerns. There is now a need for studies to differentiate between the potentially unique molecular, physiologic, and clinical effects of too much sitting (inactivity physiology) separate from the responses caused by structured exercise (exercise physiology). In theory, this may be in part because nonexercise activity thermogenesis is generally a much greater component of total energy expenditure than exercise or because any type of brief, yet frequent, muscular contraction throughout the day may be necessary to short-circuit unhealthy molecular signals causing metabolic diseases. One of the first series of controlled laboratory studies providing translational evidence for a molecular reason to maintain high levels of daily low-intensity and intermittent activity came from examinations of the cellular regulation of skeletal muscle lipoprotein lipase (LPL) (a protein important for controlling plasma triglyceride catabolism, HDL cholesterol, and other metabolic risk factors). Experimentally reducing normal spontaneous standing and ambulatory time had a much greater effect on LPL regulation than adding vigorous exercise training on top of the normal level of nonexercise activity. Those studies also found that inactivity initiated unique cellular processes that were qualitatively different from the exercise responses. In summary, there is an emergence of inactivity physiology studies. These are beginning to raise a new concern with potentially major clinical and public health significance: the average nonexercising person may become even more metabolically unfit in the coming years if they sit too much, thereby limiting the normally high volume of intermittent nonexercise physical activity in everyday life. Thus, if the inactivity physiology paradigm is proven to be true, the dire concern for the future may rest with growing numbers of people unaware of the potential insidious dangers of sitting too much and who are not taking advantage of the benefits of maintaining nonexercise activity throughout much of the day.
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics and morphology of poly(ethylene terephthalate) modified with poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Acar Işıl , Durmuş Ali , Özgümüş Saadet
Published: September 2007

The nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) copolymers modified with poly(lactic acid) (PLA) were investigated with differential scanning calorimetry, and a crystal morphology of the samples was observed with scanning electron microscopy. Waste PET (P100) obtained from postconsumer water bottles was modified with a low‐molecular‐weight PLA. The PET/PLA weight ratio was 90/10 (P90) or 50/50 (P50) in the modified samples. The nonisothermal melt‐crystallization kinetics of the modified samples were compared with those of P100. The segmented block copolymer structure (PET‐b‐PLA‐b‐PET) of the modified samples formed by a transesterification reaction between the PLA and PET units in solution and the length of the aliphatic and aromatic blocks were found to have a great effect on the nucleation mechanism and overall crystallization rate. On the basis of the results of the crystallization kinetics determined by several models (Ozawa, Avrami, Jeziorny, and Liu–Mo) and morphological observations, the crystallization rate of the samples decreased in the order of P50 > P90 > P100, depending on the amount of PLA in the copolymer structure. However, the apparent crystallization activation energies of the samples decreased in the order of P90 > P100 > P50. It was concluded that the nucleation rate and mechanism were affected significantly by the incorporation of PLA into the copolymer structure and that these also had an effect on the overall crystallization energy barrier. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Dose‐dependent pharmacokinetics of a new Na+/H+ exchanger inhibitor KR‐33028 in rats
Authors: Kim Young Hoon , Yoo Sun Dong , Kim You Sun , Lee Kyung Hee , Lee Hye Suk
Published: September 2007

The dose‐dependency of the pharmacokinetics of a new Na+/H+ exchanger inhibitor, KR‐33028 was evaluated in rats after intravenous and oral administration. After intravenous administration of KR‐33028 (1, 5, 10 and 20mg/kg doses), the systemic clearance (Cl) was reduced and AUC was nonlinearly increased as a function of dose. The volume of distribution (Vss), however, remained unchanged as the dose was increased, which was consistent with unaltered plasma protein binding in vitro (unbound fraction = 0.09–0.12). Upon oral administration (2, 10 and 20mg/kg doses), KR‐33028 was rapidly absorbed, and this was consistent with high Caco‐2 Papp values found in vitro. There were nonlinear increases in AUC and Cmax, and the absolute oral bioavailability (F) was significantly increased as the dose was increased (F = 23.3%, 40.7% and 78.2% for 2, 10 and 20mg/kg doses, respectively). The extent of urinary excretion was low for both intravenous (0.5–0.7%) and oral (0.2–0.8%) doses. The reduced systemic clearance and increased oral bioavailability at high doses appears to be due to a saturable first‐pass metabolism. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physically based animation of sandstorm
Authors: Liu Shiguang , Wang Zhangye , Gong Zheng , Huang Lei , Peng Qunsheng
Published: September 2007

This paper describes a physically based method for modeling and animating sandstorm, a type of disastrous natural phenomenon. The method adopts a relatively stable incompressible multiple fluid model to simulate the motion of air, sand, and dust particles. The wind field of sandstorm is established based on Reynold‐average Navier‐Stokes equations. The sand and dust particle flow is therefore computed taking interaction among the wind, sand, and dust particles into account. To accelerate the modeling process of a dynamic sandstorm scene, a special Multi‐Fluid Solver is designed and implemented on GPU. Various illumination effects of sandstorm scenes can be simulated by spectral sampling scattering calculation. Animations of realistic sandstorms occurring in desert and urban areas based on our model are demonstrated. Compared with the real sandstorm photos, our simulated results are satisfactory. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetric Organocatalytic Biginelli Reactions: A New Approach To Quickly Access Optically Active 3,4‐Dihydropyrimidin‐2‐(1H)‐ones
Authors: Gong Liu‐Zhu , Chen Xiao‐Hua , Xu Xiao‐Ying
Published: September 2007

The Biginelli reaction, known for over 100 years, is an important multicomponent reaction for accessing dihydropyrimidinones (DHPMs). The individual enantiomers of DHPMs exhibit different or even opposite pharmaceutical activities, which require synthetic methods to easily access the optically pure DHPMs. In recent decades, many efforts have focused on developing procedures for the preparation of optically active Biginelli products. In this article, we will summarize the developments in the synthetic methods to access optically active DHPMs with an emphasis on the recent advances in the asymmetric catalytic Biginelli reactions, along with concepts to design the organocatalytic asymmetric variants.
EMR1, the human homolog of F4/80, is an eosinophil‐specific receptor
Authors: Hamann Jörg , Koning Nathalie , Pouwels Walter , Ulfman Laurien H. , van Eijk Marco , Stacey Martin , Lin Hsi‐Hsien , Gordon Siamon , Kwakkenbos Mark J.
Published: September 2007

The EGF‐TM7 F4/80 is a defining marker of murine macrophage populations. Applying flow cytometric analysis using the newly generated mAb A10, and quantitative real‐time PCR, we here report the surprising observation that the human ortholog of F4/80, EGF‐like module containing mucin‐like hormone receptor (EMR)1, is absent on mononuclear phagocytic cells including monocytes, macrophages, and myeloid dendritic cells. Unexpectedly, we found that EMR1 expression is restricted to eosinophilic granulocytes, where expression is overlapping with the eotaxin receptor CCR3 and the immunoglobulin‐like lectin Siglec‐8. Absence on other leukocytes, including basophils, implies that EMR1 is a highly specific marker for eosinophils in humans.
On the crossing numbers of Cartesian products with trees
Authors: Bokal Drago
Published: September 2007

Zip product was recently used in a note establishing the crossing number of the Cartesian product K1,n □ Pm. In this article, we further investigate the relations of this graph operation with the crossing numbers of graphs. First, we use a refining of the embedding method bound for crossing numbers to weaken the connectivity condition under which the crossing number is additive for the zip product. Next, we deduce a general theorem for bounding the crossing numbers of (capped) Cartesian product of graphs with trees, which yields exact results under certain symmetry conditions. We apply this theorem to obtain exact and approximate results on crossing numbers of Cartesian product of various graphs with trees. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 56: 287–300, 2007
Vom Kombinat zum Konzern
Authors: Knörck Constanze
Published: September 2007

Anfang der Neunziger Jahre sollte sie noch das Zeiss‐Kombinat in Jena abwickeln. Heute ist Jenoptik ein kerngesundes Unternehmen, das sich nicht mehr um die Bestandssicherung sorgen muss. Seit dem 1. Juli wird das Unternehmen von Dr. Michael Mertin geführt. Andreas Thoß sprach im Interview mit ihm über die neue Jenoptik, Ziele und Strategien.
Laser‐MIG‐Hybridfügen von Aluminium‐Stahl Leichtbaustrukturen
Authors: Thomy Claus , Wagner Florian , Vollertsen Frank , Wirth Andreas , Kreimeyer Michael
Published: September 2007

Im Fahrzeugbau wird derzeit der Einsatz von hybriden Strukturelementen aus artungleichen Werkstoffen intensiv diskutiert. Ziel ist es dabei, Gewichtsreduktionen zu erreichen und gleichzeitig die mechanischen Eigenschaften zu erhalten oder zu verbessern. Das Fügen von Aluminium‐ mit Stahl‐Legierungen ist dabei besonders interessant für den Fahrzeugbau, aber auch für den Schiffbau.
Laser‐Mikroperforation „on‐the‐fly”︁
Authors: Baumeister Marc , Hemker Daniel , Dickmann Klaus , Vollertsen Frank
Published: September 2007

Am Laserzentrum der FH Münster (LFM) wird ein Kombinationsverfahren entwickelt, das die Herstellung von Edelstahl‐Mikrosieben mit Weiten kleiner als 5 μm und hohen Bohrraten (bis 5000 Bohrungen/Sekunde) ermöglicht. Hierfür wird in einem ersten Schritt eine dünne Metallfolie (25 μm ≤ dFolie ≤ 500 μm) mit einem Faserlaser bestmöglicher Strahlqualität (TEM00) im „on‐the‐fly”︁ Mikro‐Perforationsverfahren bearbeitet. Es werden dabei Bohrungsdurchmesser von < 15 μm erzielt. Im zweiten Schritt werden die mikro‐perforierten Edelstahlfolien gewalzt, um die Bohrungen senkrecht zur Walzrichtung in der Weite zu reduzieren. Viele Filtrationsanwendungen profitieren von der länglichen Bohrungsgeometrie, da eine geringe Weite (< 5 μm) mit einer im Vergleich zur kreisförmigen Öffnung großen Porenfläche kombiniert wird (z. B. Abscheidung sphärischer Partikel).
Public housing, health, and health behaviors: Is there a connection?
Authors: Fertig Angela R. , Reingold David A.
Published: September 2007

This paper explores the relationship between public housing, health outcomes, and health behaviors among low‐income housing residents. While public housing can be a dangerous and unhealthy environment in which to live, the subsidized rent may free up resources for nutritious food and health care. In addition, public housing may be of higher quality than the available alternatives, it may provide easier access to health clinics willing to serve the poor, and it may link residents to social support networks, which can improve mental health and the ability to access higher‐quality grocery stores. To test whether there is a “back‐door” health benefit to the public housing program, we analyze data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. We minimize the effects of selection into public housing with controls and instrumental variables estimation and find that the results are somewhat sensitive to the instrumental variable used, and thus, we conclude that we are unable to detect a robust health benefit from public housing for our measures of health. However, we do find some evidence that public housing residency has mixed effects on domestic violence, increases obesity, and worsens mothers' overall health status. © 2007 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management
Constructing a modulus map for linear elastic composites: The case of rigid reinforcements
Authors: Pandermarakis Z. G. , Spathis G. , Tsamasphyros G.
Published: September 2007

The validity areas in Young's modulus models of composite materials using finite element analysis (FEA) were identified. The bounds that these models hold on i.e., the proportion of phases, the modulus and Poisson's ratio of matrix and reinforcement phases, the geometry of the system, the loading conditions, the secondary effects etc., were accurately defined. Also, all critical factors of the respective models were computed and modified to describe and best approximate the “referring situation,” which was chosen to be that of FEA. In addition, applying these models to a real composite and through the appreciation of the diversions in the reference state, it is possible to determine qualitatively the total behavior of a composite material and to estimate a range of real material features such as the true intensity of dispersed‐phase interaction, the appeared imperfections and aggregates, the grade of adhesion, the existence of meso‐phase, etc. Finally, from the incoming information by this analysis and by suitably forming and structuring these models, we raise up their simplicity and their uniqueness and so it was made possible to construct a modulus map for the limitation and applying areas of all modulus models. POLYM. COMPOS., 28:593–604, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Comparative analysis of electric, magnetic, and mechanical properties of epoxy matrix composites with different contents of multiple walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Zilli D. , Goyanes S. , Escobar M. M. , Chiliotte C. , Bekeris V. , Cukierman A. L. , Rubiolo G. H.
Published: September 2007

Epoxy composites based on aligned chemical vapor deposition–grown multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), containing trapped iron nanoparticles, with weight fractions ranging from 0.03 to 1 wt%, were produced following a well‐known processing way. Electrical and mechanical properties as well as their densities were measured. The results are compared with previous studies investigating the magnetic percolation behavior in the same samples of composites. A percolation threshold at 0.4 wt% of MWCNTs was determined by the electrical property and it agrees with the threshold observed in the magnetic properties. A hop in the porosity and a depression of the bulk mechanical properties were also found at the threshold value. These results point out that there is an efficiency threshold related to the sonication stage of the fabrication process and the weight fraction of MWCNTs, and after this threshold, the initial nanotubes pans were not separated into individual MWCNTs or into small ropes. An optimized sonication stage is proposed and the improvement in the dispersion of the filler is shown. POLYM. COMPOS., 28:612–617, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Reinforcement of polybenzoxazine matrix with organically modified mica
Authors: Agag Tarek , Taepaisitphongse Varun , Takeichi Tsutomu
Published: September 2007

Novel polybenzoxazine–clay hybrids were prepared by the in situ polymerization of the typical benzoxazine monomer, bis(3‐phenyl‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐1,3‐benzoxazinyl)isopropane (B‐a) in the presence of aminolauric acid‐modified mica (ALA‐mica). Various ratios of ALA‐mica were dispersed into solutions of B‐a in N,N‐dimethylacetamide, followed by casting into film form. The hybrids were thermally cured up to 230°C, affording transparent nanocomposite films up to 10 wt% of mica loadings. The cure behavior was monitored by both IR and differential scanning calorimetry, indicating the catalytic effect of the modified mica. The morphology of the nanocomposites was studied by XRD, showing a featureless pattern, which suggests the disordered dispersion of mica into polybenzoxazine matrix. The dynamic mechanical properties of some hybrids show that the nanocomposites have higher storage modulus over the whole temperature range than the neat polybenzoxazine. Thermogravimetric analysis results confirmed that the thermal stability and char yield of polybenzoxazine resin increased apparently by hybridization with mica corresponding to the mica content. POLYM. COMPOS., 28:680–687, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers
Negative psychological aspects and survival in lung cancer patients
Authors: Nakaya Naoki , Saito‐Nakaya Kumi , Akechi Tatsuo , Kuriyama Shinichi , Inagaki Masatoshi , Kikuchi Nobutaka , Nagai Kanji , Tsugane Shoichiro , Nishiwaki Yutaka , Tsuji Ichiro , Uchitomi Yosuke
Published: September 2007

We conducted a prospective cohort study in Japan to investigate associations between negative psychological aspects and cancer survival. Between July 1999 and July 2004, a total of 1178 lung cancer patients were enrolled. The questionnaire asked about socioeconomic variables, smoking status, clinical symptoms, and psychological aspects after diagnosis. Negative psychological aspects were assessed for the subscales of helplessness/hopelessness and depression. Clinical stage, performance status (PS), and histologic type were obtained from medical charts. The subjects were followed up until December 2004, and 686 had died. A Cox regression model was used to estimate the hazards ratio (HR) of all‐cause mortality. After adjustment for socioeconomic variables and smoking status in addition to sex, age, and histologic type, both helplessness/hopelessness and depression subscales showed significant linear positive associations with the risk of mortality (p for trend<0.001 for both). However, after adjustment for clinical state variables in addition to sex, age, and histologic type, these significant linear positive associations were no longer observed (p for trend=0.41 and 0.26, respectively). Our data supported the hypothesis that the association between helplessness/hopelessness and depression and the risk of mortality among lung cancer patients was largely confounded by clinical state variables including clinical stage, PS, and clinical symptoms. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphologies of Sol–Gel Derived Thin Films of ZnO Using Different Precursor Materials and their Nanostructures
Authors: Bahadur Harish , Srivastava AK , Sharma RK , Chandra Sudhir
Published: September 2007

We have shown that the morphological features of the sol–gel derived thin films of ZnO depend strongly on the choice of the precursor materials. In particular, we have used zinc nitrate and zinc acetate as the precursor materials. While the films using zinc acetate showed a smoother topography, those prepared by using zinc nitrate exhibited dendritic character. Both types of films were found to be crystalline in nature. The crystallite dimensions were confined to the nanoscale. The crystallite size of the nanograins in the zinc nitrate derived films has been found to be smaller than the films grown by using zinc acetate as the precursor material. Selected area electron diffraction patterns in the case of both the precursor material has shown the presence of different rings corresponding to different planes of hexagonal ZnO crystal structure. The results have been discussed in terms of the fundamental considerations and basic chemistry governing the growth kinetics of these sol–gel derived ZnO films with both the precursor materials.
Estrogen and progesterone receptors in carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Toesca Amelia , Pagnotta Alessia , Zumbo Antonella , Sadun Raffaele
Published: September 2007

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a compression median nerve neuropathy common in women at menopausal age. The aim of this work was to study immunohistochemically the expression of estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) receptors in CTS and control specimens. Biopsies of transverse carpal ligament (TCL) and flexor tendon synovitis were collected from 23 women and from 7 men undergoing surgery for median nerve decompression at the wrist for CTS.

In TCL and synovial tissue, cells expressed ER and PR with statistically significant differences related to the age and sex of patients. Immunoreactivity was observed in fibroblasts of TCL, and in lining cells and fibroblasts of synovial tissue. In women, the number of ER‐positive cells in the TCL and synovial tissue increased with the age, peaking at 55–70 years, and then decreasing. PR‐immunoreactivity was observed only in fibroblasts of TCL and its expression decreased with age, while no immunolabeling was found in the synovial tissue. In TCL samples, the number of ER‐ and PR‐positive cells in non‐CTS patients was significantly lower than in CTS patients.

These results demonstrate that ER and PR are present in TCL and flexor tendon synovitis, suggesting a role for sex steroid hormones in the pathogenesis of CTS disease.
Effect of magnesium on calcium‐induced depolarisation of mitochondrial transmembrane potential
Authors: Racay Peter
Published: September 2007

An effect of magnesium on calcium‐induced depolarisation of mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm) was investigated. Depending on the presence of Mg2+, addition of Ca2+ to suspension of isolated rat heart mitochondria induced either reversible depolarisation or irreversible collapse of succinate‐driven ΔΨm. Irreversible collapse of ΔΨm, observed in the absence of Mg2+, was insensitive to Ca2+ chelation, inhibition of Ca2+ uptake and increased efflux of Ca2+ from mitochondrial matrix. Based on these data, opening of mPTP in a high‐conductance mode is considered to be a major cause of the Ca2+‐induced irreversible collapse of ΔΨm in the absence of Mg2+. Involvement of mPTP in the process of Ca2+‐induced collapse of ΔΨm was further supported by protective effect of both CsA and ADP. Reversible collapse of ΔΨm, observed in the presence of Mg2+, was sensitive to EGTA, ADP; and inhibition of Ca2+ uptake and increased efflux of Ca2+ from mitochondrial matrix. This may represent selective induction of a low‐conductance permeability pathway. Presented results indicate important role of Mg2+ in the process of Ca2+‐induced depolarisation of ΔΨm mainly through discrimination between low‐ and high‐conductance modes of mPTP. Minor effect of Mg2+ on Ca2+‐induced depolarisation of ΔΨm was observed at the level of stimulation of ΔΨm generation and inhibition of mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake.
Evaluation of chemokine and cytokine profiles in osteoblast progenitors from umbilical cord blood stem cells by BIO‐PLEX technology
Authors: Penolazzi Letizia , Lambertini Elisabetta , Tavanti Elisa , Torreggiani Elena , Vesce Fortunato , Gambari Roberto , Piva Roberta
Published: September 2007

We have used cytokine protein array to analyze the secretion of cytokines from an osteoblastic clone derived from human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cultured in an osteogenic differentiation medium. The analysis demonstrated the unexpected ability of osteoblast committed cells and their early progenitors to produce significant amounts of a range of soluble immune mediators without in vitro exposure to clinically relevant bacterial pathogens. The cells were expanded and their osteogenic potential analyzed over 45 days of culture was revealed by the expression of osteoblast‐specific markers (alkaline phosphatase and Runx2), and by matrix mineralization. Over this culture period, the cells secreted particularly high levels of IL‐8, MCP‐1 and VEGF, but did not express IL‐2, IL‐7, IL‐17, eotaxin, G‐CSF and IFN‐γ. These findings should encourage the use of human umbilical cord blood as a potential stem cells source for bone regeneration.
Mechanisms involved in potentiation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 responses by ethanol
Authors: Vetter Irina , Wyse Bruce D. , Roberts‐Thomson Sarah J. , Monteith Gregory R. , Cabot Peter J.
Published: September 2007

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 or TRPV1 is a calcium‐permeable ion channel that is activated by capsaicin, the active component of hot chilli peppers, and is involved in the development of inflammatory and neuropathic hyperalgesias. Ethanol can sensitise TRPV1‐mediated responses, but the pathways contributing to the potentiation of TRPV1 by ethanol have not been clearly defined. Since the μ opioid receptor (MOP) agonist morphine can inhibit TRPV1 responses potentiated by cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A (PKA), and ethanol‐mediated modulation of other ion channels involves activation of PKA, we aimed to assess the contribution of MOP‐sensitive pathways to the potentiation of TRPV1‐mediated capsaicin responses by ethanol. Calcium responses elicited by the TRPV1 agonist capsaicin were potentiated by treatment with ethanol, but morphine was not able to inhibit ethanol‐sensitised capsaicin responses. Indeed, cAMP‐dependent PKA did not appear to contribute to potentiation of TRPV1 responses by ethanol, as the PKA inhibitor Rp‐cAMPS did not inhibit ethanol‐potentiated capsaicin responses. Similarly, treatment with specific PKC and PI3K inhibitors did not affect capsaicin responses in the presence of ethanol. However, treatment with wortmannin at concentrations reported to cause PIP2 depletion limited the ability of ethanol to sensitise TRPV1‐mediated capsaicin responses. Among other plausible mechanisms, such as non‐specific inhibition of kinases including mTOR, DNA‐PK, MLCK, MAPK and polo‐like kinases, this suggests that ethanol may affect the PIP2‐TRPV1 interaction. This was confirmed by inhibition of ethanol‐potentiation by the PLC inhibitor U73122. The results presented here suggest that morphine may be of limited use in inhibiting nociceptive TRPV1 responses that have been sensitised by exposure to ethanol.
A double blind randomised controlled clinical trial on the effect of transcutaneous spinal electroanalgesia (TSE) on low back pain
Authors: Thompson John W. , Bower Susanne , Tyrer Stephen P.
Published: September 2007

A double blind randomised controlled clinical trial on the effect of transcutaneous spinal electroanalgesia (TSE) on low back pain was carried out in 58 patients attending a Pain Management Unit. Four TSE instruments, two active and two sham, were used and each patient was assigned randomly to one of these. Low back pain was rated by each patient using a visual analogue scale (VAS) immediately before and immediately after a single 20min treatment of TSE and also daily for the week prior to, and the week following, the treatment. No significant difference in mean pain score was detected between the active and sham treated groups immediately after treatment or during the subsequent week. The Hospital, Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) were completed by each patient and there was a positive correlation between the scores achieved on these scales and the mean pain scores in both the active and sham treated groups. A post‐trial problem was the discovery that the specification of the two active TSE machines differed from the manufacturer's specification. Thus, the output frequencies were either more (+10%) or less (−17%) while the maximum output voltages were both less (−40% and −20%), respectively. However, additional statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between the results obtained with the two active machines.
Floating culture promotes the maintenance of hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Kajiume Teruyuki , Yuge Louis , Kawahara Yumi , Yoshimoto Reiko , Sasaki Akira , Ide Toshinori , Asashima Makoto , Kataoka Katsuko , Kobayashi Masao
Published: September 2007

In this study we examined the effect of the specific gravity of culture medium on the frequency of hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) maintenance. We used a newly developed high‐specific‐gravity media. Bone marrow cells were isolated and cultured, and HSC activity was evaluated. The number of hematopoietic progenitor/stem cells was markedly higher in the medium with high specific gravity. In high‐specific‐gravity media, cells did not precipitate, maintenance of HSCs was increased, and there was a concomitant accumulation of β‐catenin. This novel technique for maintaining HSC populations provides an important new tool for studies in regenerative medicine.
Casein kinase 2 is the major enzyme in brain that phosphorylates Ser129 of human α‐synuclein: Implication for α‐synucleinopathies
Authors: Ishii Aasami , Nonaka Takashi , Taniguchi Sayuri , Saito Taro , Arai Tetsuaki , Mann David , Iwatsubo Takeshi , Hisanaga Shin-ichi , Goedert Michel , Hasegawa Masato
Published: September 2007

In Lewy body diseases and multiple system atrophy, α‐synuclein is hyperphosphorylated at Ser129, suggesting a role in pathogenesis. Here, we report purification of the protein kinase in rat brain that phosphorylates Ser129 and its identification as casein kinase‐2 (CK2). We show that most of the activity can be inhibited by heparin, an inhibitor of CK2. Phosphorylated Ser129 was detected in primary cultured neurons and inhibited by CK2 inhibitors. In some cases of Lewy body disease, CK2‐like immunoreactivity was recovered in the sarkosyl‐insoluble fraction, which was enriched in phosphorylated α‐synuclein. Taken together, these findings suggest that CK2 may be involved in the hyperphosphorylation of α‐synuclein in α‐synucleinopathies.
Simulation‐Based Learning for Midwives: Background and Pilot Implementation
Authors: Lathrop Anthony , Winningham Barbara , VandeVusse Leona
Published: September 2007

Simulation‐based learning is an emerging learning modality with promising potential for certified nurse‐midwife (CNM) and certified midwife (CM) education. Unlike standard didactic methods, simulation‐based learning affords opportunities to address multiple domains of learning and performance. Unlike standard clinical education, simulation‐based learning provides learners exposure to events that are rare in the clinical setting, and allows learners to assume leadership roles in emergencies. Simulation‐based learning is consistent with constructivist learning principles, which promote retention, understanding, and active use of skills. A simulation‐based shoulder dystocia learning module was implemented on a pilot basis in a class of four student nurse‐midwives. Student nurse‐midwives self‐assessed their preparedness to manage a shoulder dystocia in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains before and after the simulation‐based learning exercise. Feedback from student evaluations was promising. Although the small sample precluded statistical analysis, student self‐assessment scores appeared to be higher after the simulation‐based learning exercise. Open‐ended student feedback was unanimous that simulation‐based learning should be incorporated into the curriculum. Further implementation and evaluation of simulation‐based learning in CNM and CM education is warranted.
Distance Education to Prepare Nursing Faculty in Eritrea: Diffusion of an Innovative Model of Midwifery Education
Authors: Johnson Peter , Ghebreyohanes Ghidey , Cunningham Vivian , Kutenplon Deborah , Bouey Ora
Published: September 2007

The World Health Organization has identified 56 countries with critical health care provider shortages. This article describes an innovative collaboration between Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, and the University of Asmara, Eritrea, aimed at increasing the number of qualified nursing faculty in Eritrea. Eritrean graduate nursing students used distance education technologies and in‐country clinical support to complete a program of study that prepared them for an advanced practice nursing and faculty role. The 10 students were all highly successful and graduated in 4 semesters. These students and the Stony Brook faculty who supported them from the United States provided feedback and recommendations for future programming. The article provides key recommendations to other universities considering distance education collaboration to help build nursing capacity in developing countries. First, ensure bilateral understanding of the differences between the health care and educational systems in the partner countries. Second, select appropriate educational technology considering both technical and human factors. Third, ensure that students and faculty are sufficiently prepared for success. Fourth, maintain a strong focus on clinical education. Finally, remain flexible through program implementation, working together with students to adjust the program to address local needs and challenges.