bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A psychoeducational intervention reduces the need for anesthesia during radiotherapy for young childhood cancer patients
Authors: Haeberli Sonja , Grotzer Michael A , Niggli Felix K , Landolt Markus A , Linsenmeier Claudia , Ammann Roland A , Bodmer Nicole
Published: June 2008

Background

Radiotherapy (RT) has become an important treatment modality in pediatric oncology, but its delivery to young children with cancer is challenging and general anesthesia is often needed.

Methods

To evaluate whether a psychoeducational intervention might reduce the need for anesthesia, 223 consecutive pediatric cancer patients receiving 4141 RT fractions during 244 RT courses between February 1989 and January 2006 were studied. Whereas in 154 RT courses corresponding with 2580 RT fractions patients received no psychoeducational intervention (group A), 90 RT courses respectively 1561 RT fractions were accomplished by using psychoeducational intervention (group B). This tailored psychoeducational intervention in group B included a play program and interactive support by a trained nurse according to age to get familiar with staff, equipment and procedure of radiotherapy.

Results

Group A did not differ significantly from group B in age at RT, gender, diagnosis, localization of RT and positioning during RT. Whereas 33 (21.4%) patients in group A got anesthesia, only 8 (8.9%) patients in group B needed anesthesia. The median age of cooperating patients without anesthesia decreased from 3.2 to 2.7 years. In both uni- and multivariate analyses the psychoeducational intervention significantly and independently reduced the need for anesthesia.

Conclusion

We conclude that a specifically tailored psychoeducational intervention is able to reduce the need for anesthesia in children undergoing RT for cancer. This results in lower costs and increased cooperation during RT.
The p110γ isoform of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulates migration of effector CD4 T lymphocytes into peripheral inflammatory sites
Authors: Thomas Molly S , Mitchell Jason S , DeNucci Christopher C , Martin Amanda L , Shimizu Yoji
Published: June 2008

The role of PI-3K in leukocyte function has been studied extensively. However, the specific role of the p110γ isoform of PI- 3K in CD4 T lymphocyte function has yet to be defined explicitly. In this study, we report that although p110γ does not regulate antigen-dependent CD4 T cell activation and proliferation, it plays a crucial role in regulating CD4 effector T cell migration. Naïve p110γ−/− CD4 lymphocytes are phenotypically identical to their wild-type (WT) counterparts and do not exhibit any defects in TCR-mediated calcium mobilization or Erk activation. In addition, p110γ-deficient CD4 OT.II T cells become activated and proliferate comparably with WT cells in response to antigen in vivo. Interestingly, however, antigen-experienced, p110γ-deficient CD4 OT.II lymphocytes exhibit dramatic defects in their ability to traffic to peripheral inflammatory sites in vivo. Although antigen-activated, p110γ-deficient CD4 T cells express P-selectin ligand, β2 integrin, β1 integrin, CCR4, CXCR5, and CCR7 comparably with WT cells, they exhibit impaired F-actin polarization and migration in response to stimulation ex vivo with the CCR4 ligand CCL22. These findings suggest that p110γ regulates the migration of antigen-experienced effector CD4 T lymphocytes into inflammatory sites during adaptive immune responses in vivo.
Fast degradation of the auxiliary subunit of Na+/K+-ATPase in the plasma membrane of HeLa cells
Authors: Yoshimura Shige H. , Iwasaka Shizuka , Schwarz Wolfgang , Takeyasu Kunio
Published: June 2008

The cell-surface expression and function of multisubunit plasma membrane proteins are regulated via interactions between catalytic subunits and auxiliary subunits. Subunit assembly in the endoplasmic reticulum is required for the cell-surface expression of the enzyme, but little is known about subunit interactions once it reaches the plasma membrane. Here we performed highly quantitative analyses of the catalytic (α1) and auxiliary (β1 and β3) subunits of Na+/K+-ATPase in the HeLa cell plasma membrane using isoform-specific antibodies and a cell-surface protein labeling procedure. Our results indicate that although the β-subunit is required for the cell-surface expression of the α-subunit, the plasma membrane contains more α-subunits than β-subunits. Pulse-labeling and chasing of the cell-surface proteins revealed that degradation of the β-subunits was much faster than that of the α1-subunit. Ubiquitylation, as well as endocytosis, was involved in the fast degradation of the β1-subunit. Double knockdown of the β1- and β3-subunits by RNAi resulted in the disappearance of these β-subunits but not the α1-subunit in the plasma membrane. All these results indicate that the α- and β-subunits of Na+/K+-ATPase are assembled in the endoplasmic reticulum, but are disassembled in the plasma membrane and undergo different degradation processes.
DNA double-strand breaks, but not crossovers, are required for the reorganization of meiotic nuclei inTetrahymena
Authors: Mochizuki Kazufumi , Novatchkova Maria , Loidl Josef
Published: June 2008

During meiosis, the micronuclei of the ciliated protist Tetrahymena thermophila elongate dramatically. Within these elongated nuclei, chromosomes are arranged in a bouquet-like fashion and homologous pairing and recombination takes place. We studied meiotic chromosome behavior in Tetrahymena in the absence of two genes, SPO11 and a homolog of HOP2 (HOP2A), which have conserved roles in the formation of meiotic DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and their repair, respectively. Single-knockout mutants for each gene display only a moderate reduction in chromosome pairing, but show a complete failure to form chiasmata and exhibit chromosome missegregation. The lack of SPO11 prevents the elongation of meiotic nuclei, but it is restored by the artificial induction of DSBs. In the hop2AΔ mutant, the transient appearance of γ-H2A.X and Rad51p signals indicates the formation and efficient repair of DSBs; but this repair does not occur by interhomolog crossing over. In the absence of HOP2A, the nuclei are elongated, meaning that DSBs but not their conversion to crossovers are required for the development of this meiosis-specific morphology. In addition, by in silico homology searches, we compiled a list of likely Tetrahymena meiotic proteins as the basis for further studies of the unusual synaptonemal complex-less meiosis in this phylogenetically remote model organism.
Effects of Cerivastatin Withdrawal on Statin Persistence
Authors: Reaume Kristen T , Erickson Steven R , Dorsch Michael P , Dunham Niquole LM , Hiniker Susan M , Prabhakar Nitya , Kline-Rogers Eva M , Eagle Kim A
Published: June 2008

Background:

Medication-taking behavior is influenced by many factors, as described by the Health Belief Model. Information on withdrawals of drugs from the market may be an example of negative external stimuli that might influence patients' decisions to persist with long-term drug therapy.

Objective:

To evaluate the association between the withdrawal of cerivastatin from the market and persistence in taking all other statins in patients who recently experienced acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods:

Patients from a large ACS registry who responded to questions about medication use during a postdischarge telephone survey between November 2000 and February 2002 were categorized into 3 groups: pre- (November 1, 2000–April 30, 2001), peri- (May 1, 2001–August 31.2001), and post- (September 1. 2001–February 28, 2002) cerivastatin withdrawal periods. Patients were considered persistent It, at the time of the survey, they continued to take study medication that had been prescribed at discharge. Persistence with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, aspirin, and β-btockers was also assessed to determine whether changes in statin persistence ware unique to the class or related to other medication issues (hat affected all classes. The Kruskal–Wallis test, with post hoc Mann–Whitney U test, was used to analyze the differences in persistence between the groups. All comparisons were considered statistically significant at p less than 0.05.

Results:

There were no significant differences in patient characteristics between study groups. Persistence with statins decreased during the periwithdrawal period (88.4% pre vs 76.7% peri) and rebounded in the postwithdrawal period (90.8%; p = 0.007). There were no significant differences in persistence with the other drug classes.

Conclusions:

The temporary decline in statin persistence appeared to be associated with the withdrawal of cerivastatin, while persistence with the other study medications remained constant. Clinicians need to understand the potential effect of factors such as media attention surrounding a drug's withdrawal on patients' medication-taking behavior.
Fatal Hepatitis After Long-Term Pulse Itraconazole Treatment for Onychomycosis
Authors: Tuccori Marco , Bresci Francesco , Guidi Benedetta , Blandizzi Corrado , Tacca Mario Del , Paolo Marco Di
Published: June 2008

Objective:

To report the occurrence of acute cytolytic hepatitis In a patient exposed to pulse itraconazole therapy for 24 weeks and provide a concise review of the literature on cases of itraconazole-induced hepatitis.

Case Summary:

A 61 -year-old woman with no apparent risk factors for liver injury developed acute hepatitis one week after the final dose of a long-term course of pulse itraconazole therapy (200 mg orally twice daily, 1 wk on, 3 wk off, for 24 wk) for onychomycosis. Monitoring of liver enzymes was not performed during the treatment period. Serologic evaluations on presentation ruled out Infectious diseases or other etiological factors. Liver function tests showed alanine aminotransferase 3330 U/L, aspartate aminotransferase 3250 U/L, and bilirubin 21 mg/dL Liver function continued to deteriorate, and the patient underwent liver transplantation 17 days after admission. Her liver displayed reduced volume and them was a mild accumulation of ascitic fluid in the retroperitoneal cavity. Histologic evaluation showed massive panlobular necrosis. Complications occurred after transplantation and a rejection crisis worsened the clinical picture until the patient died about 4 months later. Use of the Naranjo probability scale showed the relationship of itraconazole therapy and the occurrence of acute hepatitis as probable.

Discussion:

Itraconazole pulse therapy for onychomycosis appears to be at least as effective as and safer than a continuous treatment regimen, particularly from the perspective of potential liver damage. Only one case of severe symptomatic hepatitis occurring after pulse therapy with itraconazole for onychomycosis and requiring transplantation has been reported previously. In that case, as well as the one reported here, hepatitis symptoms occurred after completion of long-term treatment in patients who were asymptomatic both before and during therapy.

Conclusions:

Prolonged exposure to itraconazole, administered either continuously or intermittently, may precipitate severe and irreversible hepatotoxic events. Accordingly, careful monitoring of liver function parameters should be performed both during and after treatment when onychomycosis requires prolonged itraconazole administration, even in asymptomatic patients lacking apparent risk factors of hepatic injury.
(In) Famous Spirituality: Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom
Authors: Visser Irene
Published: June 2008

This essay explores the interrelatedness of spirituality, manhood, and race in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s most famous character Uncle Tom. While Uncle Tom has become a cultural type with many negative connotations, recent studies have re-evaluated Stowe’s achievement. This is the context to this essay’s central question: whether—and to what extent-- Stowe’s fictional creation achieved the ideal of a “fullness of self,” as formulated by W.E.B. Du Bois’ in his Souls of Black Folk (1903). In exploring this question, parallels are drawn with thoughts on the interrelations of gender and spirituality by Ralph Waldo Emerson and William James.
Mystical Consciousness: A Modest Proposal
Authors: McGinn Bernard
Published: June 2008

Much of the recent literature on mysticism has taken mystical experience as a central theme. The term itself is not only recent, but also involves complexities both of a theoretical and historical character. The proposal advanced here is that mystical consciousness, understood as the meta-conscious co-presence of God in the entire process of experiencing, understanding, affirming, loving, and deciding, may provide a more adequate way to deepen our understanding of claims to have attained the direct presence of God. Calling upon resources from the transcendental method of Bernard Lonergan, the essay applies an approach based on consciousness analysis to the writings of three classic mystics: Meister Eckhart, Nicholas of Cusa, and John of the Cross.
Wood solubilization and depolymerization using supercritical methanol. Part 1: Process optimization and analysis of methanol insoluble components (bio-char)
Authors: Soria Andres J. , McDonald Armando G. , Shook Steven R.
Published: June 2008

Conversion of wood into a methanol soluble liquid (bio-oil) was shown to occur under supercritical methanol treatment (SCM). The particle size of the solid material (bio-char) left after evaporating the solvent from the bio-oil was analyzed. Expectedly, the degradation of the particle size was more pronounced during a severe SCM treatment in comparison to subcritical solubilization conditions. Molecular mass was reduced by 90% under optimal conditions of SCM treatment under which the highest degree of solubilization (degradation) was obtained. The bio-char was also analyzed by pyrolysis GC-MS. The composition of the bio-char after sub- and moderate SCM treatments consisted mainly of carbohydrate derived degradation products, which was mixed with some lignin moieties. At near to optimal SCM treatment conditions, the remaining bio-char was composed mainly of modified cellulose and lignin. The optimization of the liquefaction process was performed by means of the statistical design called “response surface model with a central composite design”.
Differential bioavailability of copper complexes to bioluminescentPseudomonas fluorescensreporter strains
Authors: Nybroe Ole , Brandt Kristian K , Ibrahim Yusuf M , Tom-Petersen Andreas , Holm Peter E
Published: June 2008

Increased levels of Cu in agricultural soils are of concern, because Cu toxicity may adversely affect important soil microorganisms, including pseudomonads. Because total metal concentrations correlate poorly with bioavailability and toxicity, a need exists for more information linking Cu speciation, bioavailability, and toxicity. The objective of the present study was to determine the bioavailability of different Cu complexes to Pseudomonas spp. A Cu-specific bioluminescent Pseudomonas fluorescens reporter strain was used to determine bioavailable Cu, which was operationally defined as those Cu species that induced expression of bioluminescence. Another strain of P. fluorescens, which continuously expressed bioluminescence, was used as a toxicity reporter. Experiments were performed in a defined aqueous medium containing 0.04 μM Cu, which was amended with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), citrate, or a well-characterized pool of dissolved organic matter (DOM). Bioluminescence emitted by the biosensors was related to data for Cu speciation obtained by geochemical modeling. Changes in Cu bioavailability in the presence of EDTA coincided with modeled changes in Cu2+ activity, indicating that Cu-EDTA complexes were not bioavailable to the Cu-specific reporter. In contrast, changes of Cu bioavailability in the presence of citrate did not correspond to changes in Cu2+, indicating that Cu–citrate complexes were fully bioavailable to the reporter strain. Finally, the response of the Cu-reporter strain to Cu in the presence of DOM indicated that Cu formed bioavailable as well as unavailable complexes with DOM. We conclude that free Cu2+ activity is a poor predictor of Cu bioavailability to Pseudomonas spp. in samples containing organic ligands.
Reversibility of the Effects of Subchronic Exposure to the Cancer Chemotherapeutics Bleomycin, Etoposide, and Cisplatin on Spermatogenesis, Fertility, and Progeny Outcome in the Male Rat
Authors: Marcon Ludovic , Hales Barbara F. , Robaire Bernard
Published: June 2008

ABSTRACT: Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men of reproductive age. A regimen of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP regimen) is the standard chemotherapy for testicular cancer. BEP has adverse effects on spermatogenic function that pose a long‐term reproductive health risk to cancer survivors and their progeny. Using a rat model, we investigated the persistence of the effects of BEP on male reproductive function, fertility, and progeny outcome. Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats received a BEP regimen mimicking human clinical exposure (three 21‐day cycles of etoposide and cisplatin on days 1–5 and bleomycin on days 2, 9, and 16, or vehicle). Reproductive and progeny outcome parameters were assessed at the end of BEP treatment and up to 9 weeks post‐treatment, at 3‐week intervals. BEP treatment reduced testicular weights and impaired spermatogenesis, characterized by abnormal testis histology and germ cell depletion. Germ cell apoptosis increased at least 3‐fold in BEP‐treated rats compared with controls at the end of treatment; 9 weeks posttreatment, germ cell apoptosis in BEP‐treated rats did not differ from controls. BEP‐exposed males were fertile; a decrease in litter size and an increase in preimplantation and postimplantation losses were observed. Preimplantation loss remained elevated in litters sired by BEP‐treated males up to 9 weeks posttreatment; however, neither postimplantation loss nor litter sizes differed from controls. Thus, both germ cell apoptosis and the postimplantation loss induced by BEP treatment were reversible. The persistence of the elevation in preimplantation loss 9 weeks after BEP treatment suggests that spermatogonia are affected.
Bovine Sertoli Cells Colonize and Form Tubules in Murine Hosts Following Transplantation and Grafting Procedures
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Hill Jon , Holland Michael , Kurihara Yasuyuki , Loveland Kate L.
Published: June 2008

ABSTRACT: The contribution of somatic cells to nonrodent male germ cell transplantation success has not been well established due to lack of cell type‐specific markers to distinguish donor cells from host cells. In the present study, we first screened antibodies and a lectin to identify markers suitable for unequivocal distinction between germ cells and Sertoli cells in bovine testes compared with mouse testes. Anti‐vimentin and the Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA) lectin detected only bovine Sertoli cells and spermatogonia, respectively; anti‐NONO and anti‐GCNA1 detected only mouse Sertoli and germ cells, respectively. The outcome of transplanting bovine testis cells into nude mouse testes was then studied using these markers. Our results clearly showed that immature bovine Sertoli cells survive and colonize mouse testes at 2.5 months after transplantation and that tubular structures composed of donor Sertoli cells formed adjacent to murine tubules within the host mouse testis. Bovine germ cell colonization and survival in mouse testes after transplantation were confirmed, but this was restricted to areas of bovine Sertoli cell colonization. In addition, ectopic grafts of intact bovine testis tissue and cell aggregates from hanging drop cultures were placed under the back skin and testis capsule of nude mice. Bovine Sertoli cells in ectopic grafts and aggregates were able to form tubular structures, and some bovine germ cells were observed around 2 months after implantation. This study therefore identifies a practical strategy to assess the outcome of testicular cell transplantation using different antibodies and a lectin to distinguish bovine cells from mouse cells. It identifies an approach that can readily be adapted to study other nonrodent species.
Is the Presence of Retinopathy of Practical Value in Defining Cases of Diabetic Nephropathy in Genetic Association Studies?
Authors: Ng Daniel P.K. , Tai Bee-Choo , Lim Xiu-Li
Published: June 2008

OBJECTIVE— A key consideration when setting up genetic studies is the case definition. For diabetic nephropathy, the case definition is typically based on the presence of albuminuria. However, it has been long debated whether diabetic nephropathy cases defined in this way may have a high prevalence of nondiabetic kidney disease, especially if diabetic retinopathy is absent.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We performed a meta-analysis of 53 studies comprising 17,791 subjects investigating the angiotensin-I converting enzyme insertion/deletion polymorphism, taking into account the requirement for diabetic retinopathy in the case definition and assuming a random-effects model.

RESULTS— No publication bias was observed. The overall pooled odds ratio (OR) for all 53 studies was 0.78 (95% CI 0.70–0.87; P < 0.001), which indicated a significant protection against diabetic nephropathy for genotype II compared with carriage of the D-allele. The pooled OR for the 11 studies (n = 3,413) requiring diabetic retinopathy in the case definition was 0.68 (0.53–0.86; P = 0.002), and this was not significantly different from the pooled OR of 0.81 (0.71–0.92; P = 0.001) obtained from the 42 remaining studies (n = 14,378) (P = 0.198). This lack of any significant effect of diabetic retinopathy was reiterated in subgroup analyses based on the type of diabetes present.

CONCLUSIONS— Stipulating the presence of diabetic retinopathy in the case definition of diabetic nephropathy did not appear to confer tangible benefits when detecting genetic associations. Besides reducing sample sizes, this stipulation makes the interpretation of genetic associations more difficult due to the potential confounding presence of diabetic retinopathy.
Mapping mountain vegetation using species distribution modeling, image‐based texture analysis, and object‐based classification
Authors: Dobrowski Solomon Z. , Safford Hugh D. , Cheng Yen Ben , Ustin Susan L.
Published: June 2008

Objective: The objective of this study was to map vegetation composition across a 24 000 ha watershed.

Location: The study was conducted on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, USA.

Methods: Automated image segmentation was used to delineate image objects representing vegetation patches of similar physiognomy and structure. Image objects were classified using a decision tree and data sources extracted from individual species distribution models, Landsat spectral data, and life form cover estimates derived from aerial image‐based texture variables.

Results: A total of 12 plant communities were mapped with an overall accuracy of 75% and a χ‐value of 0.69. Species distribution model inputs improved map accuracy by approximately 15% over maps derived solely from image data. Automated mapping of existing vegetation distributions, based solely on predictive distribution model results, proved to be more accurate than mapping based on Landsat data, and equivalent in accuracy to mapping based on all image data sources.

Conclusions: Results highlight the importance of terrain, edaphic, and bioclimatic variables when mapping vegetation communities in complex terrain. Mapping errors stemmed from the lack of spectral discernability between vegetation classes, and the inability to account for the confounding effects of land use history and disturbance within a static distribution modeling framework.
Intra-organizational Communication in Healthcare
Authors: Niazkhani Z. , Berg M. , Bal R. , Pirnejad H.
Published: June 2008

Objectives:
Intra-organizational communication is mostly interpersonal. Synchronous interruptive communication is recognized as aprimary source of inefficiency anderror in healthcare, and there is much potential for information and communication technology (ICT) to improve such communication. As recently suggested, however, due to communication failures ICT can also compound medical errors. In this paper we analyze factors that restrict the role of ICT in improving interpersonal healthcare communication and suggest solutions. Methods: We critically analyzed the literature from a selection of diverse scientific disciplines. These were related to interpersonal communication, tothe role and place of standardization and computerization in its improvement, and to reducing medical errors.

Results:
Four possible scenarios were defined on how ICT can serve healthcare communication. Two differing conceptual frameworks about communication in health-care were discussed. Considering “information space” as apart of “communication space ” allows the recognition and control of the source of the semantic gaps in conventional standardization and an enhancement of the role of ICT in improving intra-organizational communication. Moreover, cognitive, social, and organizational dimensions of complexity in interpersonal communication can be managed. Three approaches to control the variability in those dimensions and to promote therole of ICT in intra-organizational communication were discussed.

Conclusion:
A multi-dimensional approach is required to promote the role of ICT in intra-organizational communication in healthcare. Parallel to conventional standardization, atleast three dimensions need to be addressed: controlling the effect of the social context, developing standard information processing skills, and most importantly, controlling variations in care practices’ performance.
Hierarchical WO3 Hollow Shells: Dendrite, Sphere, Dumbbell, and Their Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Chen Di , Ye Jinhua
Published: June 2008

In this work, hierarchical WO3 hollow shells: dendrites, spheres and dumbbells have been successfully synthesized by simply calcining the acid‐treated PbWO4 and SrWO4 as precursors at 500 °C for 2 h. These hollow structures were characterized using X‐ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopies, Brunauer–Emmet–Teller surface area and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, respectively. Possible formation mechanisms for hollow WO3 shells consisted of tiny nanoplatelets were investigated in detail. Comparing with commercial WO3 particles, all the obtained hollow shells with larger BET surface areas showed enhanced photocatalytic activities for the degradation of organic contaminants under visible light irradiation.
Experimental study of fluidization of 1G‐Geldart D‐type particles in a rotating fluidized bed with a rotating chimney
Authors: De Wilde Juray , de Broqueville Axel
Published: June 2008

The new concept of a rotating chimney for rotating fluidized beds is experimentally investigated using a step‐response technique. The chimney rotates in the same sense as the rotating particle bed, but not necessarily at the same rotational speed. In particular, chimney rotational speeds such that the particles at contact with the chimney obtain a rotational speed higher than the average particle bed rotational speed are possible. The increase of the centrifugal force in the vicinity of the chimney allows to reduce solids losses via the chimney and to build up a higher solids loading in the fluidization chamber at given fluidization gas flow and solids feeding rates. Alternatively, at given solids loading and fluidization gas flow rate, the rotating chimney allows to control the particle residence time in the fluidization chamber. The influence of the chimney rotational speed and the fluidization gas flow rate is studied using 1G‐Geldart D‐type particles. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Reticular Chemistry of Metal–Organic Polyhedra
Authors: Tranchemontagne David J. , Ni Zheng , O'Keeffe Michael , Yaghi Omar M.
Published: June 2008

Metal–organic polyhedra (MOPs), are discrete metal–organic molecular assemblies. They are useful as host molecules that can provide tailorable internal volume in terms of metrics, functionality, and active metal sites. As a result, these materials are potentially useful for a variety of applications, such as highly selective guest inclusion and gas storage, and as nanoscale reaction vessels. This review identifies the nine most important polyhedra, and describes the design principles for the five polyhedra most likely to result from the assembly of secondary building units, and provides examples of these shapes that are known as metal–organic crystals.
The effect of alkali treatment and filler size on the properties of sawdust/UPR composites based on recycled PET wastes
Authors: Ahmad I. , Mosadeghzad Z. , Daik R. , Ramli A.
Published: June 2008

In this study, natural sawdust fillers from acacia were mixed with unsaturated polyester resin (UPR), which was prepared by recycling of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste bottles to prepare sawdust/UPR composite. PET wastes were recycled through glycolysis and depolymerized to produce a formulation for the resin. The effects of alkali treatment, filler content, and filler size on the tensile, flexural, hardness, and water absorption of the composites were investigated. The results show that the modulus of both tensile and flexural increased with increasing filler contents, but the tensile and flexural strength of composites decreased. The size of sawdust also played a significant role in the mechanical properties, with smaller size sawdust producing higher strength and modulus. This is due to the greater surface area for filler–matrix interaction. The results also show that alkali treatment causes a better adhesion between sawdust and UPR matrix and improves the mechanical properties of the composites. Furthermore, surface treatment reduced the water absorption of composites. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Self‐organized MEH‐PPV domains in a TPU matrix and the consequences to the luminescence spectra
Authors: dos Reis Bombardi André , Laureto Edson , Duarte José L. , da Silva Marco A. T. , Dias Ivan F. L. , Patrício Patrícia S. O. , Silva Glaura G. , Cury Luiz A.
Published: June 2008

Self‐sustained cast films formed from heterogeneous blends of poly(2‐methoxy‐5‐(2′‐ethyl‐hexyloxy)‐1,4‐phenylenevinylene) (MEH‐PPV) conjugated polymer and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) were investigated by photoluminescence (PL) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A blue shift is observed for the pure electronic transition PL peak (E00) with decreasing MEH‐PPV concentration. The two clear shoulders in the PL spectra at higher energy than the E00 peak appear due to the formation of small conjugation segments of the MEH‐PPV molecules at the interface of the spherical MEH‐PPV domains. This assumption and the origin of the blue shift were confirmed by correlating the average size of the MEH‐PPV domains, observed from SEM images, and the analysis of the PL spectra at low temperatures. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Pilling in cellulosic fabrics, Part 2: A study on kinetics of pilling in alkali‐treated lyocell fabrics
Authors: Bui Huong M. , Ehrhardt Anelise , Bechtold Thomas
Published: June 2008

As pilling in textiles originates from many factors, the kinetic of pilling formation play an important role in the investigation and approaches of pilling. The single jersey‐knitted lyocell fabrics were treated with different alkaline solution concentrations and submitted to Rapid Pilling Test—a wet‐state Martindale test for cellulosic fabrics performed with increasing abrasion cycles. After each type of cycles, the pilling density was microscopically counted, and then pilling was visually rated. The changes in fiber properties were followed by water retention values (WRV), fibers swelling, fiber wet abrasion resistance (NSF), and fibers tenacity/elongation in wet and in dry states. The kinetics of pill formation—quantified by pills/cm2—occurred in the following steps: pills are promptly formed at first abrasion cycles, reached the pill plateau cycles, and are self‐removed from the fabric surface. The untreated and alkali‐treated lyocell fabrics followed a similar trend of pill formation. However, the pilling propensity is distinct depending on the concentrations. The changes in the swollen state of fiber properties and fiber–fiber friction mainly determined the pill kinetics in lyocell fabrics. The kinetic model aims to figure out the pilling mechanism and the appropriate treatment for pilling resistance. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Characteristics and performance of electroactive paper actuator made with cellulose/polyurethane semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks
Authors: Cai Zhijiang , Kim Jaehwan
Published: June 2008

This article introduces a cellulose/polyurethane (PU) semi‐IPN‐based electroactive paper (EAPap) actuator. The fabrication process, bending actuation test, and its characteristics are explained. For the fabrication of cellulose/PU semi‐IPN EAPap actuator, cotton cellulose was dissolved into N,N‐dimethylacetamide (DMAc) and lithium chloride (LiCl) solvent system. PU prepolymer prepared by poly[di(ethylene glycol) adipate] and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) was mixed with DMAc cellulose solution by stirring. The mixed solution was spin‐coated on a wafer and cured to form cellulose/PU semi‐IPN films using 1,1,1‐tris(hudroxymethyl)propane as the crosslinker. The characteristics of the cellulose/PU semi‐IPN film were investigated by FTIR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction pattern (XRD), and tensile test. The bending actuation performance of the actuator was evaluated in terms of free bending displacement with respect to the actuation frequencies, voltages, and humidity levels. It shows a good bending actuation at room humidity condition. The actuation principle of the actuator is also discussed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Equilibrium swelling behavior and elastic properties of polymer–clay nanocomposite hydrogels
Authors: Abdurrahmanoglu Suzan , Can Volkan , Okay Oguz
Published: June 2008

Nanocomposite hydrogels were prepared by free‐radical polymerization of the monomers acrylamide (AAm), N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMA), and N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPA) in aqueous clay dispersions at 21°C. Laponite XLS was used as clay nanoparticles in the hydrogel preparation. The hydrogels based on DMA or NIPA monomers exhibit much larger moduli of elasticity compared with the hydrogels based on AAm monomer. Calculations using the theory of rubber elasticity reveal that, in DMA‐clay or NIPA‐clay nanocomposites, both the effective crosslink density of the hydrogels and the functionality of the clay particles rapidly increase with increasing amount of Laponite up to 10% (w/v). The results suggest that DMA‐clay and NIPA‐clay attractive interactions are stronger than AAm‐clay interactions due to the formation of multiple layers on the nanoparticles through hydrophobic associations. It was also shown that, although the nanocomposite hydrogels do not dissolve in good solvents such as water, they dissolve in dilute aqueous solutions of acetone or poly(ethylene oxide) of molecular weight 10,000 g/mol, demonstrating the physical nature of the crosslink points. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Kinetics of the thermal inactivation of Bacillus subtilis α‐amylase and its application on the desizing of cotton fabrics
Authors: Shao‐Wei Dong , Da‐Nian Lu
Published: June 2008

The thermal inactivation of Bacillus subtilis α‐amylase was studied in the presence and in the absence of Ca2+ at various temperatures. Inactivation rate constant (k), half‐life time (t1/2), and activation energy (Ea) were determined to characterize the inactivation of the enzyme. Results obtained showed that the thermal inactivation of Bacillus subtilis α‐amylase followed a first‐order kinetics. The addition of Ca2+ had a good thermostabilizing effect on the enzyme. The stabilizing effect of Ca2+ is reflected by the increased values of the activation energy, which is about two times higher in the presence than that in the absence of 20 mM Ca2+, and the decreased values of the inactivation rate constants. The desizing of the cotton fabrics was performed through steaming at 100°C with Bacillus subtilis α‐amylase. The desizing efficiency seemed to be dependent on the concentration and pH value of the enzyme solution. It was found that through the steaming process with α‐amylase, the desizing ratio of the cotton fabrics could be beyond 98% and little damage happened to the fibers of the fabrics. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Isolation of potato proteins using simulated moving bed technology
Authors: Andersson Jonatan , Sahoo Deepti , Mattiasson Bo
Published: June 2008

The simulated moving bed (SMB) concept of chromatography was applied to treat potato juice from production of starch. The aim was to harvest proteins. SMB offers possibilities to operate with different process strategies and in this study it was shown possible to harvest up to 80% of the protein in a process utilizing very little extra water besides that already present in the juice. After depleting protein from the juice in the adsorption step, the flow through was used to recondition the column after elution. The present study illustrates a new concept of applying chromatography as a capturing step of bulk products. Biotechnol. Bioeng. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Measurement of responses to suggestions for relaxation by means of indirect and direct tests
Authors: Gheorghiu Vladimir A. , Molz Günter
Published: June 2008

First, some analytic characterizations of suggestibility as well as a brief summary of recent developments of tests and scales for suggestibility without hypnosis are provided. Following that summary, an empirical study on the development of a relaxation tool both for induction and measurement is described that does not make use of the terms ‘suggestion’ and ‘hypnosis’. The objective was to measure suggestibility and relaxation that may correlate to these two approaches. This instrument consists of indirect motor items which are supposed to induce relaxation in an implicit manner and mental items inducing relaxation in an explicit way. In order to assess its psychometric quality this scale was administered to 177 school children (aged between 10 and 21 years). Item difficulties, item‐total‐correlations and reliability had satisfactory psychometric qualities. The correlation between these scales was moderate (r = 0.37). Finally, the strategy for further development of the scales is outlined. Copyright © 2008 British Society of Experimental & Clinical Hypnosis. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cytomorphologic features of well‐differentiated papillary mesothelioma in peritoneal effusion: A case report
Authors: Ikeda Katsuhide , Suzuki Takao , Tate Genshu , Mitsuya Toshiyuki
Published: June 2008

Well‐differentiated papillary mesothelioma (WDPM), a distinct subtype of diffuse malignant mesothelioma, usually occurs in the peritoneum and is seen most commonly in women of reproductive age. Histologic features of WDPM include papillary growth and stout fibrous cores surrounded by a single layer of tumor cells. We present the case of a 73‐year‐old woman without subjective symptoms who showed signs of peritoneal effusion during a routine examination and for whom cytologic examination of the ascitic fluid was performed. Many spherical clusters, with a smooth external surface composed of a single layer of uniform cuboidal cells, were observed. Within each cluster, a collagenous ball showed light green Papanicolaou staining. Immunohistochemistry of surgical specimens showed tumor cells positive for calretinin, D2‐40, and HBME‐1 staining. The histologic diagnosis was WDPM. The identification of a collagenous ball within these clusters is a useful cytologic finding for the diagnosis of WDPM. WDPM should be suspected when numerous collagenous balls are present by effusion cytology and isolated cells are not. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:512–515. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Absence of microfollicular basement membrane: A new indicator in the diagnosis of follicular carcinoma thyroid
Authors: Sahoo Maheswar , Chintamani  , Sekhri Tarun , Tripathi Madhabi , Rautela N. , Solanki Y.
Published: June 2008

The thyroid follicles represent a biological continuum. Each follicle is closely related to the follicle that is next to it. The important feature of a follicular carcinoma is a microfollicular pattern. We report a case of follicular carcinoma in a 48‐year‐old female that demonstrates microfollicles which are larger in size and contain more number of follicular cells in cytologic smears (20–29 cells) in contrary to the literature definition of microfollicles containing approximately 6–12 cells. We also demonstrate absence of basement membranes in these microfollicles in histologic sections by Silver Methanamine Stain, which may be an indicator to search for vascular and capsular invasion. This case report also describes postoperative positron emission tomography scan findings. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:519–522. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid cell blocks improve accuracy of breast FNAs beyond that provided by conventional cell blocks regardless of immediate adequacy evaluation
Authors: Akalin A. , Lu D. , Woda B. , Moss L. , Fischer A.
Published: June 2008

A new “rapid cell block” technique (RCB; the predecessor of Cellient™ Automated Cell Block System) is efficient at recovering sparse material. We previously found that RCBs of breast fine‐needle aspirations (FNAs) frequently allow histologic classification of problematic ductal proliferative lesions. Previous studies that did not emphasize cell blocks found that on‐site evaluation (OSE) of breast FNAs improves diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to determine if RCB could replace the utility of OSE of breast FNAs. The study included 604 consecutive ultrasound‐guided noncyst breast FNAs composed of three cohorts based on the presence or absence of immediate adequacy assessment, conventional (collodion bag) cell blocks (CCB), and RCB. The cohort with OSE together with CCB did not perform as well as the cohort without OSE but with RCB. In a third cohort, performance characteristics of RCBs and CCBs were compared in an independent review by two cytopathologists blinded to the final cytology and follow‐up histology diagnosis. By itself, the RCB histologic section was diagnostic 97% of the time, and it provided a diagnostic accuracy superior to CCB by itself and comparable to that provided by the combination of the smears with CCB. Highest accuracy was obtained by combining smears/monolayer preparations and RCB. Replacing OSE with RCBs provided substantial cost savings and savings of time for cytopathologists, radiologists, and their assistants. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008;36:523–529. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exploratory study to decrease postprandial anxiety: Just relax!
Authors: Shapiro Jennifer R. , Pisetsky Emily M. , Crenshaw Wen , Spainhour Shanna , Hamer Robert M. , Dymek‐Valentine Maureen , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: June 2008

Objective:

Critical first steps in the treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN) include re‐nutrition and weight restoration, both highly anxiety provoking for patients. We explored the impact of progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), guided imagery (GI), self‐directed relaxation (SR), and control (C) on reducing postprandial anxiety in 64 females with AN.

Method:

Participants began the study upon hospital admission. They received relaxation training after lunch for 15 days. Pre‐ and post‐session anxiety and treatment acceptability ratings were made daily.

Results:

Although all conditions improved relaxation and decreased anxiety, feelings of fullness, and thoughts about weight, the three active conditions significantly reduced anxiety and increased relaxation more than C (p < .0001). Participants significantly enjoyed the three active treatments, were more likely to recommend them to a friend, and were more likely to use either PMR or GI again versus C (p < .0001).

Conclusion:

Relaxation may be a valuable component for reducing postprandial anxiety in AN. © 2008 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2008
Sol–Gel Synthesis of Tunable Cerium Titanate Materials
Authors: Martos Mónica , Julián‐López Beatriz , Folgado José Vicente , Cordoncillo Eloisa , Escribano Purificación
Published: June 2008

Cerium titanate structures present a high technological interest because of their optical and catalytic properties. This work reports the synthesis of these materials by a sol–gel methodology that allows mixed oxides with TiIV/CeIII, TiIV/CeIV or TiIV/CeIII–CeIV species to be obtained. Crystallization of CeO2–TiO2 mixed oxides and Ce2Ti2O7 pyrochlore phase was corroborated by XRD and Raman spectroscopy. Magnetic and EPR measurements were performed in order to clarify the oxidation state of the cerium ions in the system as a result of the easy oxidation of CeIII. The firing atmosphere is crucial for the CeIII/CeIV ratio, which is responsible for the different structure, but it also affects the colouration (yellow, green, brown). This methodology offers the possibility to modulate the Ce3+/Ce4+ content and particle sizes providing more ecological coloured pigments based on rare earth elements that could be interesting materials for advanced applications in catalysis.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Efficient Synthesis of Hydroxy‐Substituted Cispentacin Derivatives
Authors: Benedek Gabriella , Palkó Márta , Wéber Edit , Martinek Tamás A. , Forró Enikő , Fülöp Ferenc
Published: June 2008

Starting fromN‐protectedcis‐ andtrans‐2‐aminocyclopent‐3‐enecarboxylic acid derivatives, isomers of 2‐amino‐3‐hydroxycyclopentanecarboxylic acid (8and12) were prepared via oxazoline intermediates, whereas the stereoisomeric 2‐amino‐3,4‐dihydroxycyclopentanecarboxylic acids14and17were synthesized by OsO4‐catalyzed oxidation. The enantiomers of8and14were also prepared by the same pathway. The structures, stereochemistry and relative configurations of the synthesized compounds were proved by NMR spectroscopy. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Identification of the rare EGFR mutation p.G796S as somatic and germline mutation in white patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Schwentner Ilona , Witsch‐Baumgartner Martina , Sprinzl Georg M. , Krugmann Jens , Tzankov Alexandar , Jank Siegfried , Zwierzina Heinz , Loeffler‐Ragg Judith
Published: June 2008

Background

Somatic mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are involved in tumorigenesis and response to targeted therapies in distinct cancer types. Squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck (HNSCC) show an incidence of EGFR mutations varying from 7% in Asians to 0% to 4% in white patients. Mutational screening predominantly focuses on the analysis of hotspot regions of EGFR (exons 19 and 21).

Methods

In a follow‐up study, we screened for mutations in exons 18 to 21 of the EGFR gene in 127 patients.

Results

In this cohort, a mutation frequency of 2.4% (3/127) was detected. In addition to the previously reported mutation p.K745R, the otherwise rare EGFR mutation p.G796S occurred in 2 patients with HNSCC (2/127).

Conclusion

EGFR kinase mutations are rare in white patients with HNSCC. Extension of mutational screening to exon 20 may clarify the frequency and impact of the mutation p.G796S. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008