bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision in Practice: A Cross-sectional Study Involving MRI T2 Dixon and Conventional Sequence in Detecting Focal Multiple Myeloma Lesions
Authors: Rajesh SP , Cannane Seetharaman , Periasamy Gopinath , Ethiraju Vijayakumaran , Sherene Haleema
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Multiple Myeloma (MM) represents a malignant proliferation of plasma cells derived from a single clone. Imaging of the skeleton beyond symptomatic areas is useful for myeloma staging and subsequent follow-up for treatment response and disease relapse. Despite research comparing the Dixon sequence to conventional sequences in a variety of musculoskeletal disorders, there is a lack of studies regarding the Dixon sequence’s application in MM. Aim: To compare the contrast of MM focal lesions in all four T2- weighted Dixon and Conventional T1-weighted spin-echo and Short Tau Inversion Recovery (STIR) images. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Radiology at Kovai Medical Centre and Hospitals (KMCH), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. All newly diagnosed and known cases of MM, either biopsyproven or strongly suspected based on other diagnostic testing conforming to International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) criteria from December 2020 to July 2022, were included in the study. A total of 43 patients with 142 focal MM lesions were included. Contrast between focal MM lesions and surrounding bone marrow was calculated on T1-weighted spin-echo, STIR, and T2-weighted Dixon (all four) images. Statistical analysis was done using repeated measures of Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni correction to control the type I error on multiple comparisons to find the significant difference between multivariate analyses. A probability value of 0.05 was considered a significant level for all statistical tools. Results: The study population consisted of 21 men and 22 women with a mean age of 65.3±8.6 years {Mean±Standard Deviation (SD)}. Contrast values in all four T2 Dixon images, STIR, and T1-weighted images were as follows: T2 Dixon Fat-only (FO) images (0.86.±0.09) (SD); range: (0.46-0.99), T2-weighted Dixon Water-only (WO) images (0.54±0.14) (SD); range: (0.14-0.82), T2 Dixon In-phase (IP) images (0.20±0.13) (SD); range: (0.02-0.41), T2-weighted Dixon Out-phase (OP) images (0.53±0.19) (SD); range: (0.12-0.87), STIR images (0.47±0.12) (SD); range: (0.12-0.73), and T1 images (0.23±0.12) (SD); range: (0.01-0.55). The mean contrast was highest on T2 Dixon fat-only images (p<0.0005) compared to T1 images, with the lowest contrast seen in IP images and intermediate values in OP images. Conclusion: In conclusion, fat-only images of the T2 multipoint Dixon sequence provide significant contrast compared to conventional T1-weighted imaging. Dixon water-only images provide fat suppression that is not inferior to STIR images. While Dixon techniques in the diagnosis of MM did not significantly differ from the conventional sequence, Dixon stands out from conventional sequences when considering the study duration and contrast between the lesion and normal bone marrow.
Navigating Tissue Microarray Construction: A Guide for Avoiding Pitfalls and Mastering Key Technical Aspects
Authors: Jha Tanvi , Mahapatra Somnath , Diwaker Preeti , Arora Vinod Kumar , Sharma Sonal
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Tissue Microarray (TMA) is a novel technique that is now integral in pre-clinical and translational research. In resourcelimited settings, automated microarrayers and molds are out of reach, and manual TMA construction may be done instead. Aim: To explore the pitfalls encountered while constructing manual TMAs and to troubleshoot these problems using the available resources. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done between September 2019 and March 2021 in the Department of Pathology at a tertiary healthcare center in New Delhi using 60 mastectomy specimens. Five manual TMAs were constructed using simple, cheap, and readily available resources. Problems encountered during the construction were identified and documented. Solutions attempted to troubleshoot the common problems were documented, and their outcomes were evaluated. Results: Difficulty in core extraction, cracking of TMAs during core insertion, loss of cores, misalignment of cores, bulging of blocks, difficulty in sectioning due to non-uniform cores, and loss of cores during sectioning were major problems identified. Simple measures such as prior warming of both donor and recipient blocks, use of punch biopsy needles with a plunger, maintaining a margin around the cores, using wax cores to align cores, and adequate cooling prior to sectioning helped in overcoming these problems. Other solutions that were attempted but did not yield satisfying results included the use of agarose in paraffin blocks and the use of liquid wax to seal cracks and gaps. Conclusion: Manual TMA is not only feasible, it is easy to construct once the technique is learned and the problems that commonly arise in its construction are tackled. The modifications suggested in the present study can aid in constructing these microarrays faster and avoid both wastage of time and resources. TMAs can thus be used as an alternative to traditional paraffinbased techniques for research applications in resource-limited centers with high patient loads.
Promoting Environmental Sustainability Through Vertical Farming: A Review
Authors: Singh Swapnil , Singh Poonam , Kumar Avdhesh , Baheliya Ajay Kumar , Patel Krishna Kumar
Published: April 2024

Vertical farming presents a transformative approach to agriculture with the potential to address pressing environmental sustainability challenges. This abstract explores the role of vertical farming in advancing environmental sustainability. By utilizing innovative techniques like hydroponics and aeroponics, vertical farming optimizes resource use, reduces land footprint, and minimizes environmental impact. Through the vertical stacking of crops in controlled indoor environments, it maximizes land use efficiency and minimizes water consumption compared to traditional farming methods. Moreover, vertical farms located in urban areas reduce transportation emissions by shortening the food supply chain. However, challenges such as high initial investment costs and energy consumption remain barriers to widespread adoption. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders are crucial to overcoming these challenges and scaling up vertical farming practices. Despite obstacles, vertical farming holds significant promise for promoting environmental sustainability by enhancing food security, conserving natural resources, and reducing the ecological footprint of agriculture.
Optical and infrared study of individual reacting metallocene catalyst particles
Authors: Hamilton Phillip , Hill David R. , Luss Dan
Published: February 2008

Polymer particle agglomeration and melting causing sheet formation in fluidized bed reactors have been reported to occur during olefin polymerization. The cause of this deleterious sheet formation has not yet been established. Infrared and optical imaging were used to study the temporal temperature and size during polymerization of individual commercially active catalyst particles supported on a nylon mesh. Experiments conducted at 2100 kPa confirmed theoretical predictions that the temporal temperature rapidly attains a maximum after the start of the reaction. The magnitude of the temperature rise increases upon an increase of either reactor temperature, initial catalyst particle diameter, catalyst loading, or addition of hydrogen to the feed. The maximum transient temperature rise of single commercial catalyst particle during ethylene polymerization (7.5°C) is lower than that which can lead to local melting and polymer sheet formation. The temperature rise of particle clusters is much higher than that of individual particles, as the cluster acts as a particle with an effective diameter much larger than that of an individual particle. Thus, to circumvent polymer melting it is essential to avoid catalyst particles clustering, which may be caused by electrostatic attraction. The addition of hydrogen to the feed, often used to control polymer properties, significantly increased the initial particle temperature rise (almost double in some cases). © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Heat transfer of microencapsulated PCM slurry flow in a circular tube
Authors: Wang Xichun , Niu Jianlei , Li Yi , Zhang Yinping , Wang Xin , Chen Binjiao , Zeng Ruolang , Song Qingwen
Published: February 2008

Heat transfer characteristics of microencapsulated phase change material (MPCM) slurry flow in a circular horizontal tube are presented in this paper. Phase change due to the melting is investigated for water‐based slurries using microencapsulated 1‐bromohexadecane (C16H33Br) with a mass concentrations varying from 0 to 27.6%. The local heat transfer coefficients varied significantly along the test section when PCM particles were melting. The average Nusselt numbers were calculated based on the local heat transfer data and found to be significantly higher than those for single‐phase fluid flow. Two new heat transfer correlations, one used for the slurry under laminar condition (0 < Re < 2000) and another used for the slurry under slightly turbulent condition (2200 < Re < 3500), were proposed for predicting the heat transfer behaviors of MPCM slurry in a circular tube. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Mechanistic study of enhanced H2 synthesis in biomass gasifiers with in‐situ CO2 capture using CaO
Authors: Florin Nicholas H. , Harris Andrew T.
Published: February 2008

Biomass gasification coupled with in situ CO2 removal using CaO is a promising process for the sustainable production of H2. Thermodynamic equilibrium modeling predicts biomass conversion to gas containing up to 81.4 vol % H2 (dry basis). However, in practice, discrepancies between theoretical and experimental results demonstrate the significance of nonequilibrium phenomena. In this context, we have developed a simultaneous thermogravimetric‐mass spectrometric (TG‐MS) technique to study the influence of: (i) heating rate, (ii) CaO loading, (iii) evolved gas residence time, and (iv) reaction atmosphere. The results of this study give insight into the decomposition mechanisms of biomass in the presence of CaO, including the influence of: (i) CO2 removal, (ii) sorbent hydration (Ca(OH)2), (iii) intrinsic heating and swelling effects associated with the exothermic gas–solid absorption reactions, and (iv) the direct catalytic role of CaO for char gasification and tar elimination. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Polymer hydrogenation in pulsed flow systems with extrusion
Authors: Bussard Alan , Dooley Kerry M.
Published: February 2008

The hydrogenation of poly(styrene) over a Pd/Al2O3 catalyst was studied in reactors where pulsed flows are present due to both extrusion and forced pulsing. The reaction was investigated over a range of flow rates, polymer concentrations, and pulsing conditions. Observed activities were highly related to gas‐to‐liquid mass transfer rates predicted by a correlation for slug flow in catalyst monoliths. A reactor fed by a liquid‐starved extruder is an attractive choice for hydrogenation at low polymer concentrations, where intrinsic reaction rates are approached. Higher polymer concentrations (10 wt %) lead to higher mass transfer resistances and a decrease in observed activity. But in this case forced pulsing has a greater effect on productivity; an optimum pulsing frequency was observed. Selectivity was higher and power input lower than in a stirred tank at comparable conditions. The optimal frequency is higher than those found in previous work on hydrogenations. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Long‐term occupational consequences of asthma in a large French cohort of male workers followed up for 5 years
Authors: Thaon Isabelle , Wild Pascal , Mouchot Lory , Monfort Christine , Touranchet Annie , Kreutz Gérard , Derriennic Francis , Paris Christophe
Published: February 2008

Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe the long‐term occupational consequences of asthma in males of the ESTEV study, a French longitudinal cohort of working subjects aged 37–52 at inclusion.

Methods

Medical data, self‐perceived health status, sick leave, occupational social class and employment characteristics were recorded twice by occupational physicians in 1990 (12,233 subjects) and 1995 (10,608 subjects). Asthma was characterized as to its onset (childhood, i.e., before age 20 vs. adult) and to its past versus current status by the physician.

Results

Of the 398 asthmatics, the onset was before age 20 for 226 and the asthma status was classified as current for 159 subjects. Unemployment was not higher before baseline or during follow‐up, in asthmatics as compared to non‐asthmatics, despite a significantly higher prevalence of sick leave in the previous year among current asthmatics (38.4% vs. 27.0%, P  =  0.005). Being a blue collar worker in 1990 is negatively related to childhood asthma but not to the current asthma status. In 1995, current adult‐onset asthmatics had stopped working due to disability more frequently than never‐asthmatics.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the major consequence of asthma on employment status is a selective exclusion, observed in childhood asthmatics at the beginning of their working life and in current adult‐onset asthmatics at the end of their working life. Past unemployment was shown not to be higher in working asthmatics. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:317–323, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Twenty‐four‐hour shift work, depressive symptoms, and job dissatisfaction among Japanese firefighters
Authors: Saijo Yasuaki , Ueno Takeji , Hashimoto Yoshihiro
Published: February 2008

Background

The influence of a 24‐hr shift‐work burden on firefighters' mental health has not been fully investigated. The purpose of this study is to clarify the relationships between specific workload items among firefighters engaged in 24‐hr shift work and job stress as estimated by the generic job‐stress questionnaire on depressive symptoms and job dissatisfaction from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

Method

The subjects were 1,301 firefighters. The questionnaire covered age, gender, job type, job class, marital status, smoking and drinking habits, number of attendances, turnout time, extra work hours, average nap‐time, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D), and questions from the NIOSH generic job‐stress questionnaire, including those on job satisfaction.

Results

In multivariate logistic regression analyses, a model that included all variables except the measures from the NIOSH generic job‐stress questionnaire showed that shorter nap‐time had significant higher odds ratios (ORs) for depressive symptoms and job dissatisfaction, but the significances disappeared in a fully adjusted model. In fully adjusted logistic regression analyses, low quantitative workload, low variance in workload, high intra‐ and intergroup conflict, low social support from a supervisor, high role conflict and ambiguity, and low self‐esteem had significant higher ORs for depressive symptoms and/or job dissatisfaction.

Conclusions

Amount of workload, variance in workload, intra‐ and intergroup conflict, social support from a supervisor, role conflict and ambiguity, and self‐esteem were significantly related to depressive symptoms and/or job dissatisfaction among Japanese firefighters. Moreover, inadequate nap‐time may affect their mental health. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:380–391, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A double‐blind, parallel, multicenter comparison of L‐acetylcarnitine with placebo on the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in fragile X syndrome boys
Authors: Torrioli M. Giulia , Vernacotola Silvia , Peruzzi Laura , Tabolacci Elisabetta , Mila Montserrat , Militerni Roberto , Musumeci Sebastiano , Ramos Feliciano J. , Frontera Marìa , Sorge Giovanni , Marzullo Elisabetta , Romeo Giusi , Vallee Louis , Veneselli Edvige , Cocchi Elena , Garbarino Eleonora , Moscato Umberto , Chiurazzi Pietro , D'Iddio Stefania , Calvani Menotti , Neri Giovanni
Published: February 2008

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a frequent behavioral problem in young boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS), and its treatment is critical for improving social ability. The short‐term efficacy of stimulant medications like methylphenidate (MPH) is well established in children with ADHD. FXS boys treated with MPH have improved attention span and socialization skills; however their mood becomes unstable at higher doses. Therefore, alternative pharmacological treatment of ADHD symptoms is desirable. A recent study showed that carnitine has a beneficial effect on the hyperactive–impulsive behavior in boys with ADHD without side effects. Our previous placebo‐controlled trial indicated that L‐acetylcarnitine (LAC) reduces hyperactivity in FXS boys. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of LAC in a larger sample of FXS boys with ADHD. The study design was randomized, double blind placebo controlled, parallel, and multicenter (with eight centers involved in Italy, France, and Spain). Sixty‐three FXS males with ADHD (aged 6–13 years) were enrolled; 7 patients dropped out, 56 completed the one‐year treatment, and 51 were included in the statistical analysis. Both groups improved their behavior, showing that psychosocial intervention has a significant therapeutic effect. However, we observed a stronger reduction of hyperactivity and improvement of social behavior in patients treated with LAC, compared with the placebo group, as determined by the Conners' Global Index Parents and the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale. Our results show that LAC (20–50 mg/kg/day) represents a safe alternative to the use of stimulant drugs for the treatment of ADHD in FXS children. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Externalizing disorders in American Indians: Comorbidity and a genome wide linkage analysis
Authors: Ehlers Cindy L. , Gilder David A. , Slutske Wendy S. , Lind Penelope A. , Wilhelmsen Kirk C.
Published: February 2008

Alcohol dependence is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Native Americans. Externalizing disorders such as conduct disorder (CD) and antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) have been demonstrated to have significant comorbidity with alcohol dependence in the general population. This study's aims were to: assess the comorbidity of DSM‐III‐R ASPD and CD with alcohol dependence, to map susceptibility loci for ASPD and CD, and to see if there is overlap with loci previously mapped for alcohol dependence phenotypes in 587 American Indians. Alcohol dependence was found to be comorbid with DSM‐III‐R ASPD but not CD. However, the amount of alcohol dependence in the population attributable to ASPD and/or CD is low. ASPD and the combined phenotype of participants with ASPD or CD were both found to have significant heritability, whereas no significant evidence was found for CD alone. Genotypes were determined for a panel of 791 micro‐satellite polymorphisms in 251 of the participants. Analyses of multipoint variance component LOD scores, for ASPD and ASPD/CD, revealed six locations that had a LOD score of 2.0 or above: on chromosome 13 for ASPD and on chromosomes 1, 3, 4, 14, 17, and 20 for ASPD/CD. These results corroborate the importance of several chromosomal regions highlighted in prior segregation studies for externalizing diagnoses. These results also further identify new regions of the genome, that do not overlap with alcohol dependence phenotypes previously identified in this population, that may be unique to either the phenotypes evaluated or this population of American Indians. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduced hippocampal volumes associated with the long variant of the tri‐ and diallelic serotonin transporter polymorphism in major depression
Authors: Frodl Thomas , Zill Peter , Baghai Thomas , Schüle Cornelius , Rupprecht Rainer , Zetzsche Thomas , Bondy Brigitta , Reiser Maximilian , Möller Hans‐Jürgen , Meisenzahl Eva M.
Published: February 2008

Substantial evidence supports a role for dysfunction of the serotonin transporter (5‐HTT) in the pathogenesis of major depression. The polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene (5‐HTTLPR) was found to be associated with reduced hippocampal volume in major depression. However, the original diallelic polymorphism was criticized, because the L‐allele can be subtyped into La and Lg alleles, the latter of which is thought to be similar to the S‐allele. Therefore, the study aim was to examine the influences of the triallelic (La‐Lg‐S system) and diallelic 5‐HTTLPR on hippocampal volumes in patients with major depression and healthy controls. Using high‐resolution MRI hippocampal volumes and polymorphisms (5‐HTTLPR) were measured in 60 in‐patients with major depression and 60 healthy controls. Patients with the La/La genotype had significantly smaller hippocampal gray and white matter than La/La controls. No significant differences were found between patients and controls with La/(Lg + S) or (Lg + S)/(Lg + S) genotype. Moreover, within the patient group the La/La homozygous genotype had significantly smaller hippocampal white matter volumes than the La/(Lg + S) or (Lg + S)/(Lg + S) genotype. In conclusion, with the diallelic as well as the triallelic system the homozygosity for the long‐allele is associated with decreased hippocampal volumes in patients with major depression, but not in healthy controls, suggesting that disease or stress specific processes linked to the serotonergic system may enhance the vulnerability to morphological alterations. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Unipolar depression and hippocampal volume: Impact of DNA sequence variants of the glucocorticoid receptor gene
Authors: Zobel Astrid , Jessen Frank , von Widdern Olrik , Schuhmacher Anna , Höfels Susanne , Metten Martin , Rietschel Marcella , Scheef Lukas , Block Wolfgang , Becker Tim , Schild Hans H. , Maier Wolfgang , Schwab Sibylle G.
Published: February 2008

Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) plays a major role in regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical (HPA) system; HPA dysregulation represents the most consistent biological pattern of depression. Multiple functional polymorphisms are known for the GR gene, which might influence the development of unipolar depression. Previous studies reported associations to some variants in this gene but not consistently so. We investigated seven genetic polymorphisms in the GR gene (NR3C1) located in the putative promoter, exon 2 and intron 2 region. Study populations were 322 German inpatients with recurrent unipolar depression, and 298 German controls recruited from the general population. The relationships between intermediate phenotypes (hippocampal and amygdala volumes) and NR3C1 DNA sequence variants were additionally explored in a subpopulation of patients. We found association between the diagnosis of depression and DNA sequence variants in intron 2 as well as in the 5′ region of the NR3C1 gene but not for the previously studied exon 2 and putative promoter variants (global test after control of multiple testing, P = 0.02). In patients, diagnosis‐related alleles were also associated to hippocampal volume reduction and amygdala volume variation. Unipolar depression is associated with DNA variants of the NR3C1 gene in our population. Neurobiological underpinnings of depression as volumetric reductions of the hippocampus may also be mediated by variants in this gene. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cognitive dysfunction in mice deficient for TNF‐ and its receptors
Authors: Baune Bernhard T. , Wiede Florian , Braun Anja , Golledge Jonathan , Arolt Volker , Koerner Heinrich
Published: February 2008

Recent evidence suggests a role for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF) in the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). The aim of this work was to examine the effect of a deficiency of TNF (TNF−/−) and its main receptors (TNF‐R1−/− and TNF‐R2−/−) on cognitive function. A standardized survey on cognition‐like behavior assessing learning and retention, spatial learning/memory, cognitive flexibility, and learning effectiveness was used in B6.WT and B6.TNF gene targeted mice strains (B6.wild‐type, B6.TNF−/−, B6.TNF‐R1−/−, B6.TNF‐R2−/− mice). All studied mice strains demonstrated successful exploration and learning processes during the training phases of the tests, which made the specific cognition‐like tests valid in these mice strains. In the specific cognition‐like tests, the B6.TNF−/− mice demonstrated significantly poorer learning and retention in the novel object test compared to B6.WT, B6.TNF‐R1−/− and B6.TNF‐R2−/− mice. In addition, spatial learning and learning effectiveness were significantly poorer in B6.TNF−/− mice compared to B6.WT mice. Moreover, the moderately impaired cognitive performance with similar degrees in B6.TNF‐R1−/− or B6.TNF‐R2−/− mice was generally better than in TNF−/− mice but also poorer than in B6.WT mice. While the absence of TNF was correlated with poor cognitive functioning, the deletion of both TNF‐receptors was involved in partially reduced cognitive functioning. Low‐levels of TNF under non‐inflammatory immune conditions appear essential for normal cognitive function. TNF displays an interesting candidate gene for cognitive function. Translational research is required to investigate associations between genetic variants of TNF and cognitive function in healthy subjects and neuropsychiatric samples. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evidence for potential relationship between SLC1A1 and a putative genetic linkage region on chromosome 14q to obsessive‐compulsive disorder with compulsive hoarding
Authors: Liang Kung‐Yee , Wang Ying , Shugart Yin Yao , Grados Marco , Fyer Abby J. , Rauch Scott , Murphy Dennis , McCracken James , Rasmussen Steven , Cullen Bernadette , Hoehn‐Saric Rudolf , Greenberg Benjamin , Pinto Anthony , Knowles James , Piacentini John , Pauls David , Bienvenu O. , Riddle Mark , Samuels Jack , Nestadt Gerald
Published: February 2008

Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) is likely a disorder involving complex genetic transmission. This suggests that multiple genetic and environmental factors are involved in its etiology. This is complicated further by the probability of genetic heterogeneity for this phenotype. In this report, we describe a preliminary approach to deal with both complexities. SLC1A1, a glutamate transporter gene on chromosome 9p, was originally proposed to be related to OCD based on two linkage studies, and subsequently association of OCD to the gene has been replicated. Additionally, genetic linkage to a subtype of OCD, compulsive hoarding, has been reported on chromosome 14q. We hypothesized that both genomic regions contribute to OCD in some instances. Using the analytic program GENEFINDER we found that conditioning linkage on chromosome 14q to a marker adjacent to SLC1A1, reduced the size of the linkage region on chromosome 14q and provided evidence for interaction between the regions on chromosomes 9p and 14q. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association study of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and LIN‐7 homolog (LIN‐7) genes with adult attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Lanktree Matthew , Squassina Alessio , Krinsky Marilee , Strauss John , Jain Umesh , Macciardi Fabio , Kennedy James L. , Muglia Pierandrea
Published: February 2008

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychiatric disorder with a large genetic component that has been shown to persist into adulthood in 30–60% of childhood ADHD cases. Adult ADHD confers an increased risk of ADHD in relatives when compared to childhood ADHD, possibly due to a greater genetic liability than the childhood form. Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin expressed in the brain throughout life and is involved in survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity of several neuronal systems including dopaminergic pathways. Mammalian LIN‐7 homolog is selectively expressed in specific neuronal populations and is involved in the postsynaptic density of neuronal synapses. LIN‐7 is also a positional candidate, as it lies immediately downstream of BDNF. We tested for association between five BDNF polymorphisms, two LIN‐7 polymorphisms and adult ADHD. The sample consisted of 80 trios comprised of an adult ADHD proband and their biological parents and an independent sample of 121 adult ADHD cases and a corresponding number of sex, age, and ethnically matched controls (total 201 probands). Allelic and haplotype association was found between both BDNF and adult ADHD, and LIN‐7 and adult ADHD. HapMap indicates BDNF and LIN‐7 occur in different haplotype blocks, though some linkage disequilibrium exists between the SNPs in these adjacent genes. Further investigations into the pathologic mechanisms of BDNF and LIN‐7 in adult ADHD are required. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The neuregulin 1 promoter polymorphism rs6994992 is not associated with chronic schizophrenia or neurocognition
Authors: Crowley James J. , Keefe Richard S.E. , Perkins Diana O. , Stroup T. Scott , Lieberman Jeffrey A. , Sullivan Patrick F.
Published: February 2008

The neuregulin 1 (NRG1) promoter single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs6994992 has shown association with decreased activation of frontal and temporal lobe regions, increased risk of psychosis, and decreased premorbid IQ. This SNP is part of a putative schizophrenia risk‐associated haplotype and was associated with increased expression of the type IV transcript in postmortem tissue. We tested for association between rs6994992 and chronic schizophrenia by genotyping 738 cases from the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) and 733 matched controls. We further tested for associations with age at onset and baseline neurocognition in cases with schizophrenia reasoning that these phenotypes might yield results similar to those seen for premorbid IQ. Affection status was weakly associated with rs6994992 genotypes and trended towards association under a recessive model. This association did not survive correction for multiple comparisons and was in the opposite direction than has been reported. There was no association between rs6994992 and age at onset, an estimate of premorbid IQ, or neurocognition at study baseline. We were unable to replicate previous associations of rs6994992 with schizophrenia and, moreover, did not find significant associations with age of onset, an estimate of pre‐morbid IQ, or neurocognition. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multilayered core–shell structure of the dispersed phase in high‐impact polypropylene
Authors: Chen Yong , Chen Ye , Chen Wei , Yang Decai
Published: February 2008

The multiphase morphology of high impact polypropylene (hiPP), which is a reactor blend of polypropylene (PP) with ethylene–propylene copolymer, was investigated by transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and field‐emission scanning electron microscopy techniques in conjunction with an analysis of the hiPP composition and chain structure based on solvent fractionation, 13C‐NMR, and differential scanning calorimetry measurements. A multilayered core–shell structure of the dispersed phase of hiPP in solution‐cast films and the bulk was observed. The inner core was mainly composed of polyethylene (including its long blocks) together with part of PP, the intermediate layer was ethylene–propylene random copolymer, and the outer shell consisted of ethylene–propylene multiblock copolymers. The formation process and controlling factors of the multilayered core–shell structure are discussed. This kind of multiphase morphology of hiPP caused the material to possess both a high rigidity and high toughness. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Water‐soluble aldehyde‐bearing polymers of 2‐deoxy‐2‐methacrylamido‐D‐glucose for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Korzhikov Victor A. , Diederichs Solvig , Nazarova Olga V. , Vlakh Evgenia G. , Kasper Cornelia , Panarin Evgeny F. , Tennikova Tatiana B.
Published: February 2008

In this study the methods of synthesis of hydrophilic aldehyde‐bearing polymers and copolymers based on 2‐deoxy‐2‐methacrylamido‐D‐glucose have been developed. Polymers with controllable aldehyde group content were synthesized via free‐radical polymerization and subsequent polymeranalogous modification. The water‐soluble polymers obtained were investigated in view of their capacity to be adsorbed on two commercial mineral supports used in bone tissue engineering. Besides, cytotoxicity of synthesized polymers was tested. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis and characterization of poly(fluorene vinylene) copolymers containing thienylene–vinylene units
Authors: Yu Nan , Zhu Rui , Peng Bo , Huang Wei , Wei Wei
Published: February 2008

Narrow‐band‐gap 2,5‐thienylene‐divinylene (ThV) units were incorporated into the poly(fluorene vinylene) backbone via a Gilch reaction as an energy trap with various feed ratios; this yielded pronounced changes in the electrochemical and optical properties of the material. The energy levels of the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of the polymers {poly(9,9‐di‐iso‐octylfluorene vinylene) [poly(fluorene vinylene‐co‐thiophene vinylene (FV))], C1, and C2} were estimated to be −5.53 to −5.10 eV and −2.98 to −2.84 eV, respectively, by cyclic voltammetry measurements. In comparison with poly(FV), the HOMO energy levels of polymers poly(fluorene vinylene‐co‐thiophene vinylene (FV) (90 : 10) (C1) and poly(fluorene vinylene‐co‐thiophene vinylene (FV) (80 : 20) (C2) were significantly increased, but their LUMO energy levels were slightly decreased. The optical properties were investigated by absorption and emission spectra of the polymers. The good spectral overlap between the emission of poly(FV) and the absorption of polymers C1 and C2 revealed a sufficient energy transfer from the majority of 9,9‐di‐iso‐octylfluorene vinylene units to the minority of ThV units. The reduction of self‐absorption losses of polymers C1 and C2 due to spectral separation caused by the incorporation of ThV units could be indirectly confirmed by nonlinear optical (NLO) properties. The result of the NLO properties of the polymers showed that the third‐order NLO coefficients of poly(FV), C1, and C2 were 8.1 × 10−10, 1.35 × 10−9, and 1.51 × 10−9 esu, respectively. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Effects of polymer degradation on drug release from PLGA‐mPEG microparticles: A dynamic study of microparticle morphological and physicochemical properties
Authors: Li Jin , Jiang Guoqiang , Ding Fuxin
Published: February 2008

In vitro degradation and drug release of poly (DL‐lactide‐co‐glycolic acid)‐methoxypoly(ethyleneglycol) (PLGA‐mPEG) microparticles were performed through a dynamic monitoring process, to investigate the effect of degradation on drug release from microparticles and to elucidate the dominant factor that governed the drug release kinetics. Methotrexate (MTX), an antirheumatic drug, was employed as the model drug. Drug release showed a triphasic pattern: an initial burst release followed by a lag period and subsequently a second burst release. The initial burst release was mainly caused by dissolution and diffusion of drugs at/near the surface of microparticles. During the following lag period, microparticles suffered little morphological changes, whereas the physicochemical changes of the polymer contributed to the increasing mobility of drug molecules, and then provided transport pathways for drug release. Later on, the erosion of the polymer matrix became significant. Morphology study showed that the trend of porosity change was in accordance with last phase release profile, indicating that porosity played an extremely important role in controlling drug release. The liberation pattern of mPEG was elucidated. The more pores formed, the more mPEG chains were exposed to the aqueous medium and disengaged from the polymer. Scanning electron micrography observation further confirmed these conclusions. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation, characterization, and lithographic applications of glycidyl methacrylate/methacrylic acid/t‐butyl‐4‐vinylphenyl carbonate terpolymers
Authors: El‐Demerdash A. M. , Sadik W. A. , El‐Maghraby A. H.
Published: February 2008

At present, most negative working lithographic plates use organic solvents as a developing medium. These developers have the obvious disadvantages of toxicity, fire risk, and are more expensive than the aqueous developers. This work describes the synthesis and characterization of materials that have similar photoactive properties to existing materials, but are soluble in water or aqueous medium rather than organic solvents. These materials are terpolymers comprising of one sort of material to induce water solubility, such as methacrylic acid (MAA) and another material to give the photoactive response such as glycidyl methacrylate (GMA). The tertiary‐butyl‐4‐vinyl phenyl carbonate (t‐BOCVP) was added as a chemically amplifying agent. Various terpolymers were prepared via free‐radical solution polymerization, typically in methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). Crosslinking reaction was induced using mixed arylsulphonium hexafluoroantimonate (MAS+ ‐SbF) as a photogenerating acid. It was found that the films of the terpolymer containing 85 mol % of GMA unit with the addition of 5 mol % rather than 2 mol % of the t‐BOCVP in the feed ratio gave good acid resistance and good adhesion to the surface of the zinc plate. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Accelerated wear testing with a microfabricated surface to evaluate the lubrication ability of biomolecules on polyethylene
Authors: Fang Hsu‐Wei , Wang Hsien‐Chieh , Tsai Teh‐Hua , Tsai Wei‐Bor , Hou Shao‐Yi , Liu Hsuan‐Liang , Lee Wun‐Hsing , Lu Yung‐Chang , Huang Chun‐Hsiung
Published: February 2008

Wear of ultrahigh‐molecular‐weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) and wear‐particle‐induced osteolysis and bone resorption are the major factors causing the failure of total joint replacements. It is feasible to improve the lubrication and reduce the wear of artificial joints. We need further understanding of the lubrication mechanism of the synovial fluid. The objective of this study is to evaluate the lubricating ability of three major components in the synovial fluid: albumin, globulin, and phospholipids. An accelerated wear testing procedure in which UHMWPE is rubbed against a microfabricated surface with controlled asperities has been developed to evaluate the lubrication behavior. An analysis of the wear particle dimensions and wear amount of the tests has provided insights for comparing their lubrication performance. It is concluded that the presence of biomolecules at the articulating interface may reduce friction. A higher concentration of a biological lubricant leads to a decrease in the wear particle width. In addition, in combination with the wear results and mechanical analysis, the roles of individual biomolecules contributing to friction and wear at the articulating interface are discussed. These results can help us to identify the role of the biomolecules in the boundary lubrication of artificial joints, and further development of lubricating additives for artificial joints may be feasible. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Immunocytochemical Localization of Caveolin‐3 in the Synoviocytes of the Rat Temporomandibular Joint During Development
Authors: Niwano Masahiro , Nozawa‐Inoue Kayoko , Suzuki Akiko , Ikeda Nobuyuki , Takagi Ritsuo , Maeda Takeyasu
Published: February 2008

Caveolins—caveolin‐1, ‐2, ‐3 (Cav1, 2, 3)—are major components of caveolae, which have diverse functions. Our recent study on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) revealed expressions of Cav1 and muscle‐specific Cav3 in some synovial fibroblast‐like type B cells with well‐developed caveolae. However, the involvement of Cav3 expression in the differentiation and maturation of type B cells remains unclear. The present study therefore examined the chronological alterations in the localization of Cav3 in the synovial lining cells of the rat TMJ during postnatal development by immunocytochemical techniques. Observations showed immature type B cells possessed a few caveolae with Cav1 but lacked Cav3 protein at postnatal day 5 (P5). At P14, Cav3‐immunopositive type B cells first appeared in the synovial lining layer. They increased in number and immunointensity from P14 to P21 as occlusion became active. In immunoelectron microscopy and double immunolabeling with heat shock protein 25 (Hsp25) and Cav3, coexpressed type B cells developed rough endoplasmic reticulum and numerous caveolae, while the Cav3‐immunonegative type B cell with Hsp25 immunoreaction possessed few of these. Results suggest that Cav3 expression, which is closely related to added functional stimuli, reflects the differentiation of the type B synoviocytes. Anat Rec, 291:233–241, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renal Intratubular Crystals and Hyaluronan Staining Occur in Stone Formers with Bypass Surgery but not with Idiopathic Calcium Oxalate Stones
Authors: Evan Andrew P. , Coe Fredric L. , Gillen Daniel , Lingeman James E. , Bledsoe Sharon , Worcester Elaine M.
Published: February 2008

Whether idiopathic calcium oxalate (CaOx) stone formers form inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) crystal deposits bears on pathogenetic mechanisms of stone formation. In prior work, using light and transmission electron microscopy, we have found no IMCD crystal deposits. Here, we searched serial sections of papillary biopsies from a prior study of 15 idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers, 4 intestinal bypass patients with CaOx stones, and 4 non–stone‐forming subjects, and biopsies from an additional hitherto unreported 15 idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers and 1 bypass patient using polarized light oil immersion optics, for deposits overlooked in our original study. We found no IMCD deposits in any of 1,500 serial sections from the 30 idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers, nor in 87 additional sections from a frozen idiopathic calcium oxalate stone former biopsy sample processed without exposure to aqueous solutions. Among 4 of the 5 bypass patients but in none of the 30 idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers or 4 normal stone formers, we found tiny birefringent thin crystalline overlays on scattered IMCD cell membranes. We also found IMCD lumen deposits in two bypass patients that contained mixed birefringent and nonbirefringent crystals, presumably CaOx and apatite. In the bypass patients, we observed focal apical IMCD cell hyaluronan staining, which was absent in idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers. The absence of any IMCD deposits in 1,500 serial sections of biopsies from 30 idiopathic calcium oxalate stone formers allows us to place the upper limit on the probability of their occurrence at approximately 0.002 and place the lower limit of their size at the resolution of the optics (<0.2 μ). The tiny deposits in bypass patients may be the initial crystal lesion. Anat Rec, 291:325–334, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimization of Volumetric Computed Tomography for Skeletal Analysis of Model Genetic Organisms
Authors: Vasquez Sergio X. , Hansen Mark S. , Bahadur Ali N. , Hockin Matthew F. , Kindlmann Gordon L. , Nevell Lisa , Wu Isabel Q. , Grunwald David J. , Weinstein David M. , Jones Greg M. , Johnson Christopher R. , Vandeberg John L. , Capecchi Mario R. , Keller Charles
Published: February 2008

Forward and reverse genetics now allow researchers to understand embryonic and postnatal gene function in a broad range of species. Although some genetic mutations cause obvious morphological change, other mutations can be more subtle and, without adequate observation and quantification, might be overlooked. For the increasing number of genetic model organisms examined by the growing field of phenomics, standardized but sensitive methods for quantitative analysis need to be incorporated into routine practice to effectively acquire and analyze ever‐increasing quantities of phenotypic data. In this study, we present platform‐independent parameters for the use of microscopic x‐ray computed tomography (microCT) for phenotyping species‐specific skeletal morphology of a variety of different genetic model organisms. We show that microCT is suitable for phenotypic characterization for prenatal and postnatal specimens across multiple species. Anat Rec, 291:475–487, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative Cellular Morphology Suggesting the Existence of Resident Dendritic Cells Within Immune Organs of Salmonids
Authors: Lovy Jan , Wright Glenda M. , Speare David J.
Published: February 2008

This report is the first morphological description of cells that resemble dendritic cells, which appear to form resident populations within the spleen and anterior kidney of fish. Based on examination of three salmonid species, including, rainbow trout, brook trout, and Atlantic salmon, the cells were most abundant in the spleen, although they were always present in the anterior kidney. The cells appeared diffusely distributed, often near blood vessels of the spleen and kidney of healthy fish and within the epithelium, connective tissue, and blood vessels of rainbow trout gills with experimentally induced microsoporidial gill disease. The dendritic‐like cells in this study contained granules that resemble Birbeck granules, which are considered to be morphological markers of Langerhans cells in mammals. The cells were approximately 6 μm in diameter and contained Birbeck‐like (BL) granules localized near centrioles. Although the dendritic‐like cells in the three salmonid species shared many similarities, morphological differences were found in the fine structure of the rod portion of the BL granules. Rainbow trout BL granules contained amorphous material, while the other salmonid species contained particulate material arranged in a square‐lattice arrangement. The BL granules in the cells of Atlantic salmon had a narrow diameter and contained four layers of particulate material when sectioned longitudinally; two layers enveloped by the granule membrane and two central layers making up a central lamella, which is common in mammalian Birbeck granules. Anat Rec, 291:456–462, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stability of Alkali Metal Halide Polymorphs as a Function of Pressure
Authors: Čančarević Željko P. , Schön J. Christian , Jansen Martin
Published: February 2008

We investigated the regions of thermodynamic stability of possible modifications of the alkali metal halides as a function of pressure and type of alkali metal and halogen. Both Hartree–Fock and density functional calculations (for six different functionals) were performed. The results are in good agreement with experiment, and the trends in the computed quantities such as transition pressures and lattice parameters as a function of the ab initio method are similar to those found in earlier studies of the alkali metal sulfides. We predict that in most of these systems the so‐called 5–5 modification should be metastable at standard pressure and be thermodynamically stable at slightly negative pressures. The sizes of the pressure ranges over which the various modifications are stable showed characteristic trends as a function of the type of the constituent elements, thus generalizing the traditional pressure–homologue rule for transition pressures and stable phases in ionic solids.