bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automation of nanoflow liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry for proteome and peptide profiling analysis by using a monolithic analytical capillary column
Authors: Jiang Xiaogang , Dong Jing , Wang Fangjun , Feng Shun , Ye Mingliang , Zou Hanfa
Published: March 2008

An automated nano‐LC‐MS/MS platform without trap column was established, which only used a 20 cm lauryl methacrylate–ethylene dimethacrylate (LMA–EDMA) monolithic capillary column to allow preconcentration and separation of peptides. The monolithic column had the advantages of good permeability and low backpressure resulting in higher flow rates for capillary columns. Tryptic digests of bovine albumin and yeast protein extract were tested using the monolithic column system. High proteomic coverage using this approach were demonstrated in this study. Furthermore, peptide samples extracted from mouse liver were separated by using the monolithic column system combined with size‐exclusion chromatography prefractionation. This monolithic column system might be a promising alternative for the automated system previously using a trap column for routine proteome and peptide profiling analysis.
Enzymatic in‐capillary derivatization for glucose determination by electrophoresis with spectrophotometric detection
Authors: Rzygalinski Ignacy , Pobozy Ewa , Drewnowska Renata , Trojanowicz Marek
Published: March 2008

The following paper compares several procedures of in‐capillary bienzymatic derivatization with regard to glucose determination with the use of glucose oxidase and horseradish peroxidase. The procedures discussed below include continous contact in the capillary, plug–plug injection, and sequential injection with incubation in the capillary inlet. The reaction of hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by peroxidase was performed using two different substrates. The best results were achieved for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, reduced disodium salt (NADH) acting both as a chromogenic reagent and a substrate for peroxidase, while the method employed was sequential injection and incubation at the capillary inlet. The LOD was estimated to be 25 nM with a linear response up to 0.1 μM.
Coupling of solid‐phase microextraction continuous bed (monolithic) capillaries with capillary zone electrophoresis for direct analysis of drugs in biological fluids
Authors: Jarmalavičienė Reda , Szumski Michał , Kornyšova Olga , Kłodzińska Ewa , Westerlund Douglas , Krawczyk Stanislas , Mickevičius Donatas , Buszewski Bogusław , Maruška Audrius
Published: March 2008

Hyperlink robust biocompatible solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) devices were prepared using continuous bed (monolithic) restricted‐access media (RAM) as the SPME capillary insert. The RAM‐based SPME approach was able to simultaneously separate proteins from a biological sample, while directly extracting the active components of caffeine, paracetamol and acetylsalicylic acid from the drug NeoCitramonum. The devices were interfaced with a CZE system and fully automated analysis for sample preconcentration, desorption, separation and quantification of analytes was evaluated. Comparative study of in‐line coupled SPME–CZE using RAM and RP capillary inserts was carried out. Using an SPME (RAM) insert, the calculated caffeine, paracetamol and acetylsalicylic acid LODs in a bovine plasma sample were 0.3, 0.8 and 1.9 ng/mL, respectively.
Pro‐tolerogenic effects of photodynamic therapy with TH9402 on dendritic cells
Authors: Broady Raewyn , Yu Jie , Levings Megan K.
Published: March 2008

A major goal in transplantation immunology is to develop strategies that can specifically promote tolerance to foreign cells and tissues without compromising other immune functions. Experimental induction of transplantation tolerance by dendritic cells (DCs) and/or T regulatory (Treg) cells can efficiently prevent graft‐versus‐host disease and organ graft rejection in animal models, and there is much hope that similar strategies in transplanted patients will provide an alternative to immunosuppression. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a therapeutic treatment for graft versus host disease and organ rejection that may operate via induction of tolerance. We investigated whether a new PDT therapy, based on exposure of cells to 4,5‐dibromorhodamine methyl ester (TH9402), may operate via induction of tolerogenic DC. We developed an in vitro model to mimic the in vivo effect of re‐infusing peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) treated with PDT based on TH9402 (TH‐PDT). TH‐PDT‐treated PBMCs were co‐cultured with allogeneic immature monocyte‐derived DCs. After 24 h, the phenotype and T‐cell stimulatory capacity of the DCs was assessed. Following phagocytosis of TH‐PDT PBMCs, DCs maintained an immature phenotype, produced significantly increased amounts of interleukin‐10, and had a reduced allostimulatory capacity in comparison to mature DCs. In the context of transplantation, these data suggest that repeated exposure of circulating DCs to TH‐PDT PBMCs may result in presentation of alloantigens under anti‐inflammatory conditions and induction of antigen‐specific tolerance. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immobilization of malto‐oligosaccharide forming α‐amylase from Bacillus subtilis KCC103: properties and application in starch hydrolysis
Authors: Rajagopalan Gobinath , Krishnan Chandraraj
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND:

A malto‐oligosaccharide forming α‐amylase from Bacillus subtilis KCC103 immobilized in calcium alginate beads was repeatedly used in batch processes of starch hydrolysis. The degree of starch degradation and operational stability of the immobilized system were optimized by varying the physical characteristics and composition of the beads. The products formed from hydrolysis of various starches by α‐amylase immobilized in different supports were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Immobilized beads prepared from 3% (w/v) alginate and 4% (w/v) CaCl2 were suitable for up to 10 repeated uses, losing only 25% of their efficiency. On addition of 1% silica gel to alginate prior to gelation, the operational stability of the immobilized enzyme was enhanced to 20 cycles of operation, retaining > 90% of the initial efficiency. Distribution of malto‐oligosaccharides in the starch hydrolyzate depended on the type of starch, reaction time and mode of immobilization. Soluble starch and potato starch formed a wide range of malto‐oligosaccharides (G1–G5). Starches from wheat, rice and corn formed a narrow range of smaller oligosaccharides (G1–G3) as the major products.

CONCLUSION:

The immobilized beads of α‐amylase from KCC103 prepared from alginate plus silica gel showed high efficiency and operational stability for hydrolysis of starch. This immobilized system is useful for production of malto‐oligosaccharides applied in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Since this KCC103 amylase can be produced at low cost utilizing agro‐residues in a short time and immobilized enzyme can be recycled, the overall cost of malto‐oligosaccharide production would be economical for industrial application. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
ASARM‐truncated MEPE and AC‐100 enhance osteogenesis by promoting osteoprogenitor adhesion
Authors: Sprowson Andrew P. , McCaskie Andrew W. , Birch Mark A.
Published: March 2008

Matrix extracellular phosphoglycoprotein (MEPE) is a member of the SIBLING (Small Integrin‐Binding Ligand, N‐linked Glycoprotein) family of secreted glycophosphoproteins. Several previous studies have demonstrated that MEPE and its peptide motif, AC‐100, may regulate bone mass and influence osteoblast activity, suggesting its potential for inclusion in novel therapeutic strategies aimed at increasing osteogenesis. Our study uses in vitro approaches to assess how adhesion of nonadherent cells is influenced by MEPE and whether response to MEPE is dependent on the maturity of osteoblastic cells. Truncated MEPE (ASARM removed) or AC‐100 enhanced the adhesion, spreading, and focal complex formation of unadhered osteoblastic cells leading to increased differentiation and bone formation after 28 days of culture. Furthermore, addition of truncated MEPE or AC‐100 to mature osteoblasts had no significant effect on bone formation. Our data supports an action for truncated MEPE and AC‐100 in altering the physiology of immature poorly adherent cells which subsequently influences the way in which these cells interact with a substrate to facilitate their survival and/or commitment to the osteoblast lineage. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1256–1262, 2008
Bone–muscle interaction of the fractured femur
Authors: Graham Andrew E. , Xie Sheng Q. , Aw Kean C. , Mukherjee Supratim , Xu Wei L.
Published: March 2008

The interaction forces of a fractured femur among the bone, muscle, and other soft tissues are not well understood. Only a small number of in vivo measurements have been made and with many limitations. Mathematical modeling is a useful alternative, overcoming limitations and allowing investigation of hypothetical simulated reductions. We aimed to develop a model to help understand best practices in fracture reduction and to form a base to develop new technologies and procedures. The simulation environment allows muscle forces and moments to deform a fractured femur, and the behavior of forces during reduction can be found. Visual and numerical output of forces and moments during simulated reduction procedures are provided. The output can be probed throughout the reduction procedure down to the individual muscle's contribution. This is achieved by construction of an anatomically correct three‐dimensional mathematical model of the lower extremity and muscles. Parameters are fully customizable and can be used to investigate simple, oblique, and some comminuted fractures. Results were compared with published in vivo measurements and were of the same magnitude. A simple midshaft fracture had a maximum resulting force of 428 N, whereas traction from the hip reached a maximum value of 893 N at 60 mm of displacement. Monte Carlo analysis revealed that the deforming force was most sensitive to the muscles' rest lengths. The developed model provides greater understanding and detail than in vivo measurements have to date. It allows new treatment procedures to be developed and importantly to assess the outcome. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1159–1165, 2008
Study of the 19th century porcelain cards with direct Raman analysis
Authors: Vandenabeele P. , De Paepe P. , Moens L.
Published: March 2008

Porcelain cards are a special type of cards, which are typical of the 19th century. They are produced by a lithographic procedure, and painted by hand. In this work, direct non‐destructive Raman spectroscopy is used to analyse the pigments that were used during the production of 43 porcelain cards, originating from different locations. Apart from the metals, which do not yield a Raman spectrum, the pigments could be identified, including vermilion, red lead, lead white, Prussian blue, ultramarine, carbon black and chrome yellow. In some cases pigment mixtures were applied, to produce purple, brown and green colours. Although a wide range of porcelain cards were analysed, the pigment use on these cards is remarkably constant, including synthetic pigments that were only recently (at the time) produced. Therefore, no obvious differences, which could be related to the provenance, could be identified. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comprehensive micro‐Raman spectroscopic study of prehistoric rock paintings from the Sierra de las Cuerdas, Cuenca, Spain
Authors: Hernanz Antonio , Gavira‐Vallejo José M. , Ruiz‐López Juan F. , Edwards Howell G. M.
Published: March 2008

An extensive micro‐Raman spectroscopic study of prehistoric paintings found in open air rock shelters at the Sierra de las Cuerdas (Cuenca, Spain) was carried out. In situ optical microscopy, petrological polarized light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis (EDX) were used as auxiliary techniques. Haematite (α‐Fe2O3) of three granular types was the pigment that was most frequently encountered alone and in admixture with non‐stoichiometric iron oxyhydroxides. A white pigment, but rarely used, results from a combination of white earths (α‐quartz, anatase, muscovite and illite) and calcined bones (apatite); the presence of calcined bones also appears frequently in the red pigmented pictographs. The presence of significant amounts of charcoal underlying the white paint is suggestive of previous sketching on the shelter walls. Accretions of whewellite and weddellite resulting from the activity of fungi or lichens (e.g. Verrucaria nigrescens) are present in the painting panels, and carotenoids from this biological colonization were detected on several pictographs. The crystallization of gypsum and barytes in spallating areas of the painted surfaces is associated with sandstone weathering processes. An unusual deterioration of the art work caused by electric welding splashes resulting from the erection of protective ironwork grilles around the rock art panels was also detected. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advanced aspects of electromagnetic SERS enhancement factors at a hot spot
Authors: Le Ru E. C. , Meyer M. , Blackie E. , Etchegoin P. G.
Published: March 2008

In this paper, we discuss some advanced theoretical aspects of electromagnetic enhancement factors (EFs) in surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). We focus in particular on the influence of surface selection rules (SSRs) on SERS EFs at hot spots, and the determination of SERS depolarization ratios. Both aspects could be viewed as secondary (compared to the overall magnitude of the SERS EF), but are nevertheless observable experimentally and crucial for a fundamental understanding of SERS. They also share the property that they cannot be studied within the commonly used |E | 4 approximation to the SERS EFs, and appropriate tools are developed here to make predictions beyond this approximation in the case of a SERS hot spot. In addition, theoretical estimates of different types of (previously defined) EFs are provided, and their origins discussed for the typical example of a SERS substrate dominated by SERS hot spots. Finally, experimental measurements of SERS depolarization ratios are presented to support the theoretical predictions. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Size‐dependent Raman and infrared studies of PbSe nanoparticles
Authors: Manciu F. S. , Sahoo Y. , Carreto F. , Prasad P. N.
Published: March 2008

Micro‐probe Raman and far‐infrared absorption spectroscopies were used to prove the existence of optical phonon modes of PbSe nanoparticles prepared by colloidal chemistry and preliminarily characterized by transmission electron microscopy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that evidence of the surface phonon (SP) mode by Raman spectroscopy has been experimentally observed. The wavenumber of the SP mode is consistent with its prediction by a dielectric continuum model. While for different PbSe nanoparticle sizes the observed SP mode does not show any obvious change in its position, there is a clear shift by approximately 4 cm−1 toward higher wavenumber in the appearance of the LO(Γ) in the Raman spectra from the 3 nm to the 7 nm PbSe nanoparticles. Far‐infrared measurements demonstrate the presence of the transverse optical TO(Γ) and of the coupled phonon modes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Impact of Postreperfusion Syndrome on Short-Term Patient and Liver Allograft Outcome in Patients Undergoing Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Hilmi Ibtesam , Horton Charles N. , Planinsic Raymond M. , Sakai Tetsuro , Nicolau-Raducu Ramona , Damian Daniela , Gligor Silivu , Marcos Amadeo
Published: March 2008

The greatest part of liver allograft injury occurs during reperfusion, not during the cold ischemia phase. The aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate how the severity of postreperfusion syndrome (PRS) influences short-term outcome for the patient and for the liver allograft. Over a 2-year period, 338 consecutive patients who presented for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) were included in this retrospective study. They were divided into 2 groups according to the severity of the PRS they experienced. The first group comprised 152 patients with mild or no PRS; the second group comprised 186 patients with significant PRS. Perioperative hemodynamic parameters, coagulation profiles, blood product requirements, incidence of infection, incidence of rejection and outcome data for both groups were collected and analyzed. There was no demographic difference between the groups except for age; group 2 had older patients than group 1 (54.94 ± 9.07 versus 51.52 ± 9.91,

P

= 0.001). Compared to group 1, group 2 patients required more red blood cell transfusions (11.31 ± 10.90 versus 8.08 ± 7.89 units,

P

= 0.002), more fresh frozen plasma transfusions (10.25 ± 10.96 versus 7.03 ± 7.64 units,

P

= 0.002), more cryoprecipitate (1.88 ± 4.72 units versus 0.61 ± 1.80 units,

P

= 0.001), and were more likely to suffer from fibrinolysis (52.7% versus 41.4%,

P

= 0.041). Interestingly, group 2 had a shorter average warm ischemia time than group 1 (33.19 ± 8.55 versus 36.21 ± 11.83 minutes,

P

= 0.01). Group 2 also required longer, on average, mechanical ventilation (14.95 ± 29.79 versus 8.55 ± 17.79 days,

P

= 0.015), remained in the intensive care unit longer (17.65 ± 31.00 versus 11.49 ± 18.67 days,

P

= 0.025), and had a longer hospital stay (27.29 ± 32.35 versus 20.85 ± 21.08 days,

P

= 0.029). Group 2 was more likely to require retransplantation (8.6% versus 3.3%,

P

= 0.044). In conclusion, the severity of PRS during OLT appears to be related to the outcome of patient and liver allograft.
Outcome of Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma Listed for Liver Transplantation Within the Eurotransplant Allocation System
Authors: Adler Michael , De Pauw Filip , Vereerstraeten Pierre , Fancello Agnese , Lerut Jan , Starkel Peter , Van Vlierberghe Hans , Troisi Roberto , Donckier Vincent , Detry Olivier , Delwaide Jean , Michielsen Peter , Chapelle Thierry , Pirenne Jacques , Nevens Frederik
Published: March 2008

Although hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become a recognized indication for liver transplantation, the rules governing priority and access to the waiting list are not well defined. Patient- and tumor-related variables were evaluated in 226 patients listed primarily for HCC in Belgium, a region where the allocation system is patient-driven, priority being given to sicker patients, based on the Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score. Intention-to-treat and posttransplantation survival rates at 4 years were 56.5 and 66%, respectively, and overall HCC recurrence rate was 10%. The most significant predictors of failure to receive a transplant in due time were baseline CTP score equal to or above 9 (relative risk [RR] 4.1; confidence interval [CI]: 1.7–9.9) and α fetoprotein above 100 ng/mL (RR 3.0; CI: 1.2–7.1). Independent predictors of posttransplantation mortality were age equal to or above 50 years (RR 2.5; CI: 1.0–3.7) and United Network for Organ Sharing pathological tumor nodule metastasis above the Milan criteria (RR 2.1; CI: 1.0–5.9). Predictors of recurrence (10%) were α fetoprotein above 100 ng/mL (RR 3.2; CI:1.1–10) and vascular involvement of the tumor on the explant (RR 3.6; CI: 1.1–11.3). Assessing the value of the pretransplantation staging by imaging compared to explant pathology revealed 34% accuracy, absence of carcinoma in 8.3%, overstaging in 36.2%, and understaging in 10.4%. Allocation rules for HCC should consider not only tumor characteristics but also the degree of liver impairment. Patients older than 50 years with a stage above the Milan criteria at transplantation have a poorer prognosis after transplantation.
Preformed Antibodies Detected by Cytotoxic Assay or Multibead Array Decrease Liver Allograft Survival: Role of Human Leukocyte Antigen Compatibility
Authors: Castillo-Rama Marcela , Castro Maria Jose , Bernardo Ivan , Meneu-Diaz Juan Carlos , Elola-Olaso Almudena Moreno , Calleja-Antolin Sara M. , Romo Eva , Morales Pablo , Moreno Enrique , Paz-Artal Estela
Published: March 2008

The significance of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) compatibility and preformed antibodies in liver transplantation remains unclear. The objectives of this study were to evaluate, in a single-center cohort comprising 896 liver transplants, whether the degree of donor-recipient compatibility and preformed antibodies modified graft survival. Univariate Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that donor-recipient HLA compatibility had a marginal impact on allograft survival. As for compatibility at individual antigen loci, 2 mismatches at HLA-A conferred a survival advantage in retransplanted allografts (

P

= 0.011). HLA-B and HLA-DR loci did not play a significant role in outcome in any pathology. The concordance of results on preformed antibodies detected by complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and a multiple bead assay (Luminex® xMAP) showed a strong correlation between both techniques (

P

< 0.0001). Both CDC-detected and Luminex-detected antibodies were associated with shorter graft survival within the first year post-transplant (

P

= 0.01 and

P

= 0.016, respectively). Positive CDC T crossmatches and Luminex-detected HLA class II antibodies played a significant role in decreasing graft survival (

P

= 0.043 and

P

= 0.0019 at 1 year, respectively, and

P

= 0.005 and

P

= 0.038 at 5 years, respectively). A correlation was also observed between the presence of preformed Luminex-detected class II or Luminex I and II antibodies and allograft rejection (

P

= 0.001 and

P

= 0.042, respectively). In conclusion, although HLA typing is not a prerequisite for transplantation, screening of HLA antibodies with Luminex techniques and CDC crossmatch may be useful in the detection of at-risk patients that could benefit from increased surveillance and tailored therapy following transplantation. Liver Transpl, 2008. © 2008 AASLD.
Value of An Individual Liver Biopsy in the Preoperative Evaluation of Apparently Healthy Potential Liver Donors
Authors: Savas Nurten , Coskun Mehmet , Bilezikci Banu , Uruc Irfan , Karakayali Hamdi , Yilmaz Ugur , Haberal Mehmet
Published: March 2008

Living donor liver transplantation has acquired widespread acceptance. A thorough workup of the potential living donor is guided by 2 objectives: the first is ensuring the safety of the surgical procedure for the donor, and the second is identifying donor grafts that pose potential risks for the recipient. Of 305 living-related liver donors, liver biopsy was performed in 201. The results of those patients' liver function tests and serologic tests were within normal limits. Forty-one of the 201 patients had steatosis on abdominal ultrasonography or tomography. Of 201 liver biopsies, 94 (46.8%) demonstrated normal findings, whereas 107 (53.2%) showed abnormal findings on pathology. Of 107 patients with abnormal pathological findings, 32 (29.9%) had fatty changes, 4 (3.7%) had steatohepatitis, and 71 (66.4%) had nonsteatotic histologic findings including fibrosis, hepatitis, and granulomatous reactions. In conclusion, our data show that half of the living-related liver donors, appearing absolutely healthy, had biopsies with abnormal pathology results. As it is well known that increasing percentages of steatosis may reduce the functional mass of the graft and occult liver diseases may not be detected without liver biopsy, we recommend that liver biopsies be part of the routine evaluation protocol for living-related liver donors in all transplantation institutions.
Correlation Between the Liver Temperature Employed During Machine Perfusion and Reperfusion Damage: Role of Ca2+
Authors: Vairetti Mariapia , Ferrigno Andrea , Rizzo Vittoria , Boncompagni Eleonora , Carraro Amedeo , Gringeri Enrico , Milanesi Gloria , Barni Sergio , Freitas Isabel , Cillo Umberto
Published: March 2008

This study compares the effects of machine perfusion (MP) at different temperatures with simple cold storage. In addition, the role of Ca2+ levels in the MP medium was evaluated. For MP, rat livers were perfused for 6 hours with Krebs-Henseleit (KH) solution (with 1.25 or 2.5 mM CaCl2) at 4°C, 10°C, 20°C, 25°C, 30°C, or 37°C. For cold storage, livers were perfused

in situ

and preserved with Celsior solution at 4°C for 6 hours. The reperfusion period (2 hours at 37°C) was performed under the same conditions used for MP-preserved and cold storage–preserved livers. Hepatic enzyme release, bile production, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, and morphology were evaluated during MP and reperfusion. MP at 37°C caused marked enzyme release; the same findings were obtained during reperfusion. By contrast, MP temperature lowering induced a significant decrease in liver damage. High levels of biliary gamma-glutamyltransferase and lactate dehydrogenase were found with MP at 4°C and 10°C but not with MP at 20°C. When a KH–1.25 mM CaCl2 solution was used during MP at 20°C, very low enzyme release was observed and significantly lower hepatic damage was present at the end of the reperfusion period in comparison with cold storage. The same results were obtained when ruthenium red, a calcium uniporter blocker, was added to KH–2.5 mM CaCl2. ATP levels were higher and morphology was better in liver preserved with KH–1.25 mM CaCl2. MP at 20°C with KH–1.25 mM CaCl2 resulted in better quality liver preservation, improving hepatocyte and endothelial biliary cell survival, in comparison with cold storage. This raises the need to reconsider the temperature and calcium levels to be used during liver MP.
Chronic Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Haagsma Elizabeth B. , van den Berg Arie P. , Porte Robert J. , Benne Cornelis A. , Vennema Harry , Reimerink Johan H. J. , Koopmans Marion P. G.
Published: March 2008

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is known to run a self-limiting course. Sporadic cases of acute hepatitis due to infection with HEV genotype 3, present in pig populations, are increasingly recognized. Zoonotic transmission seems infrequent. The entity of unexplained chronic hepatitis after liver transplantation has been recognized. Detection of HEV in 2 liver transplant recipients triggered a review of these cases. Freeze-stored sera were available for retrospective analysis. HEV antibodies were determined. For virus detection and identification, a fragment of the gene encoding the major capsid protein (open reading frame 2) was amplified by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and sequenced to identify the genotype. Two months after liver transplantation, case A developed unexplained chronic hepatitis, which developed into cirrhosis. Retransplantation followed 7 years later, after which chronic hepatitis recurred. In retrospect, HEV RNA was present in serum 3 weeks after the first transplantation and remained present afterwards. HEV RNA was also present in retransplant liver tissue. HEV antibodies appeared late after retransplantation. Case B developed unexplained chronic hepatitis 7 years after transplantation. Retransplantation was needed 5 years later, after which no signs of hepatitis recurred. In retrospect, the period of chronic hepatitis up to the retransplantation coincided with HEV RNA in serum. In case B, antibodies developed, the viral load was much lower than in case A, and the virus seemed to be cleared after retransplantation. Genotyping in both cases revealed 2 unique strains of genotype 3. In conclusion, chronic HEV infection may develop in immunosuppressed patients, who may then serve as long-term carriers of the virus. We hypothesize that HEV may be the cause of chronic hepatitis in liver transplant recipients.
Acetyl Halide Initiator Screening for the Cationic Ring‐Opening Polymerization of 2‐Ethyl‐2‐Oxazoline
Authors: Paulus Renzo M. , Becer C. Remzi , Hoogenboom Richard , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: March 2008

Kinetic investigations on the cationic ring‐opening polymerization of 2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline were conducted using acetyl chloride, acetyl bromide, and acetyl iodide as initiators. Various polymerization temperatures ranging from 80 to 220 °C were applied under microwave irradiation. The resulting polymerization mixtures were characterized with GC and GPC for the determination of monomer conversion and molecular weight distribution, respectively. Well defined polymers with narrow molecular weight distributions ($\overline M _{{\rm n,GPC}}$ = 6 000 Dalton, PDI ≈ 1.10) were obtained with all three initiators.

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A Comparative Study on the Polymerization of α‐Olefins Catalyzed by Salen and Salan Zirconium Complexes
Authors: Strianese Maria , Lamberti Marina , Mazzeo Mina , Pellecchia Claudio
Published: March 2008

A new Salan zirconium complex is synthesized and tested as a precatalyst for the polymerization of ethylene and higher α‐olefins. Its catalytic behavior is compared to that of a previously reported and related Salen zirconium complex. Analysis of the produced polyolefins reveals that the two different catalytic systems produce polymers with the same microstructure: atactic polymers from propene versus highly isotactic polymers from higher α‐olefins. The identification of the end groups indicates a prevailing primary regiochemistry of polyinsertion of the α‐olefins for both Salan and Salen zirconium complexes. These observations strongly suggest the formation of very similar active species in both systems.

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Macromol. Rapid Commun. 6/2008
Authors: Hain Jessica , Eckert Franziska , Pich Andrij , Adler Hans‐Juergen
Published: March 2008

Front Cover: In this work we prepared multi‐sensitive aqueous microgel particles with incorporated conducting PEDOT nanorods, as can be seen on the cover picture. The obtained microgels can be stimulated by changing the environment temperature as well as by the repulsion/attraction forces within the polymer network due to the reversible oxidation/reduction of the conjugated polymer. Microgels with unique properties can be operated in colloidal systems or used as building blocks for the preparation of nanostructured films. Further details can be found in the article by J. Hain, F. Eckert, A. Pich*, and H.‐J. Adler on page 472.
Thermal and Photooxidative Degradation Behaviors of Poly(propylene)/SiO2 Nanocomposites with Various Polymer Morphologies
Authors: Sumino Ken‐Ichi , Taniike Toshiaki , Terano Minoru , George Graeme A.
Published: March 2008

Photo‐ and thermal stabilities of poly(propylene) (PP)/SiO2 nanocomposites were studied by varying the particle size of the SiO2 nanoparticles. It was found that smaller SiO2 nanoparticles improved the stabilities of the nanocomposites by depressing the size of spherulites. The phenomenon was successfully explained within the infectious spreading model, where the spatial spreading of oxidation was delayed at the interfacial region between the spherulites.

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Estimation of Morphology Characteristics of Porous Poly(propylene) Particles from Degassing Measurements
Authors: Bobak Marek , Gregor Tomas , Bachman Bernd , Kosek Juraj
Published: March 2008

The transport of reaction species in polyolefin particles affects both the polymerization and the degassing of the powder in the down‐stream processing. The morphology of particles – that is, the distribution of polymer and pore phases – predetermines their degassing behavior. We utilize gravimetric measurements to obtain the dynamics of degassing and to determine morphology characteristics of porous poly(propylene) particles. We found that Fick's diffusion model is not generally capable of fitting the shape of degassing curves of porous particles. Therefore we propose a particle model including two sizes of compact polymer granules and demonstrate that the degassing can be described by this model and that the model is capable of estimating fractions of large and small compact zones and the size of large compact zones.

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Could stereotype rebound affect aid advertising campaigns?
Authors: Kennedy Sharyn , Hill Stephen
Published: March 2008

The possibility that stereotype rebound may occur for viewers of aid agency appeals was investigated. Stereotype rebound refers to the ironic finding that active efforts to avoid thinking about people in a stereotypical manner can backfire and subsequently lead to increased stereotypical thinking and prejudiced behaviour. In two experiments, participants were instructed to avoid stereotyped thinking about developing world poor and were later asked to respond to a situation involving the same group—in Experiment 1, participants wrote a ‘day in the life’ story about the target group; in Experiment 2, participants seated themselves in preparation for meeting a member of the outgroup. In neither experiment was the typical stereotype rebound effect observed. In Experiment 1, suppressors' stories were found to be no more stereotypical in content than controls. In Experiment 2, suppressors sat closer to the target than controls. The differences between these results and those of experiments utilizing other stereotyped groups are discussed in terms of differences in stereotype content and attitudes to socially sensitive outgroups.

Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal diagnosis of clubfoot in low‐risk population: associated anomalies and long‐term outcome
Authors: Canto M. J. , Cano S. , Palau J. , Ojeda F.
Published: March 2008

Objectives

To evaluate associated congenital anomaly risk, need for surgical treatment and long‐term outcome in prenatally diagnosed clubfoot.

Methods

A retrospective study of 20 663 pregnant women who underwent routine ultrasound scanning at 18 to 22 weeks of gestation. Clubfoot was considered as complex or isolated if other structural or chromosomal abnormalities were also present or not.

Results

Forty‐two cases of congenital clubfoot were diagnosed (incidence: 0.2%), 28 of them (66.6%) were isolated and 14 (33.3%) were complex, of which 3 (7.1%) had an abnormal karyotype and 11 (26.2%) had an associated structural anomaly. The false‐positive rate was 2.3% (1 out of 32 liveborns). Out of the 41 confirmed affected fetuses, the defect was unilateral in 12 (29.3%) and bilateral in 29 (70.7%) cases. Surgery was necessary in 12 of the newborns (38.7%). The presence of a bilateral clubfoot was unrelated to either the presence of associated anomalies (p = 0.40) or to the necessity of surgery (p = 0.48).

Conclusions

We provide outcome data about fetuses prenatally diagnosed for clubfoot. One‐third are complex cases associated with other congenital anomalies. For isolated clubfoot, the risk of requiring surgery is about 40%. The detection of a bilateral defect does not worsen the prognosis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Allergic contact dermatitis to topical drugs—epidemiological risk assessment
Authors: de Pádua C. A. Menezes , Schnuch A. , Nink K. , Pfahlberg A. , Uter W.
Published: March 2008

Purpose

Estimation of the population‐based relative incidence (RI) of contact sensitization to a set of topical drug allergens (cases/100 000 defined daily doses (DDDs) per year) (1995–2004) and comparison of the RI for drugs with a similar therapeutic scope.

Methods

Clinical data regarding the frequency of contact sensitization to important topical drug allergens in Germany were obtained from the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK). This was extrapolated to the general population level using the ‘clinical epidemiology and drug utilization research’ (CE‐DUR) approach. As denominator of exposure, national prescription data (DDDs of topical drug specialties) provided by the WIdO Research Institute (Bonn) were aggregated per substance.

Results

The probable RIs of contact sensitization to topical ‘skin’ corticosteroids ranged from 0.3 (dexamethasone phosphate disodium salt) to 23.3 (amcinonide) cases/100 000 DDDs per year. Concerning topical aminoglycoside antibiotics, the RI of framycetin sulphate was about threefold higher than that of gentamicin sulphate. Regarding topical ophthalmic use, the RI of kanamycin sulphate was higher compared to gentamicin sulphate. Active principles marketed over‐the‐counter (OTC) had, in general, lower RIs, with the exception of bufexamac, benzocaine, clioquinol and phenylephrine.

Conclusions

The population‐based risk assessment—quantitatively considering exposure in the RI estimation—revealed a ranking of contact sensitization risk to topical drugs which partly differed from the respective frequencies in the clinical patch test population. Some drugs available OTC carry non‐negligible risk, too. The current findings should contribute to differential therapeutic considerations regarding topical drug use. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Why forgiveness may protect against depression: Hopelessness as an explanatory mechanism
Authors: Toussaint Loren L. , Williams David R. , Musick Marc A. , Everson‐Rose Susan A.
Published: March 2008

This study examined associations between multiple dimensions of forgiveness with hopelessness and depression. Further, this study investigated the extent to which hopelessness mediated associations between forgiveness and depression. We used an adapted model and drew on beginning work showing associations between forgiveness, hope/hopelessness and depression. We predicted that forgiveness would be significantly inversely correlated with hopelessness and depression, and that hopelessness would mediate the associations between forgiveness and depression. We controlled for religiousness/spirituality and demographic factors in our analyses, and used data from a nationally representative probability sample of 1 423 adults, ages 18 years and older. Results showed that forgiveness of oneself and others was negatively correlated, and seeking forgiveness was positively correlated with depression. Forgiveness of oneself and others was associated with hopelessness. Mediation analyses revealed that hopelessness partially mediated the associations between forgiveness of oneself and others with depression. The present findings provide support for theoretical and conceptual work connecting forgiveness, hope and mental health, and add to a scant empirical literature on these topics. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of oxidized proteins in rat plasma using avidin chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Mirzaei Hamid , Baena Beatriz , Barbas Coral , Regnier Fred
Published: March 2008

The objective in much of the proteomics literature today is to establish the difference between healthy and disease states at the protein level using blood plasma. A critical component in this endeavor is to establish what is normal. The focus of the work reported here was to do this with oxidized proteins that might relate to oxidative stress and oxidative stress‐related diseases. Oxidative stress is known to increase markedly in cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. Since proteins are one of the targets of ROS, generated by oxidative stress, oxidized proteins are excellent biomarker candidates for these diseases. But first it is necessary to identify oxidized proteins that occur in the healthy state. Healthy rat plasma was used in this study as a source for the identification of naturally oxidized proteins. Freshly drawn blood was treated with biotin hydrazide to selectively derivatize carbonyl groups in oxidized proteins. Oxidized proteins thus biotinylated were separated from the other plasma proteins using avidin affinity chromatography. Affinity selected proteins were further fractionated on a C8 RP column and fractions collected. The collected fractions were then tryptic digested and the peptides identified using a combination of LC/MS/MS and database searches. One hundred forty‐six proteins were identified using 700 signature peptides from the tryptic digested chromatographic fractions. The most frequently encountered proteins in the samples were keratins. Brain and liver were among the organs contributing the most oxidized proteins to plasma followed by heart and kidney.
Synthesis and properties of novel Y‐type nonlinear optical polyimides with high thermal stability of second harmonic generation
Authors: Lee Ga‐Young , Jang Han‐Na , Lee Ju‐Yeon
Published: March 2008

2,4‐Bis‐(3,4‐dicarboxyphenylcarboxyethoxy)‐1‐(2,2‐dicyanovinyl)benzene dianhydride (4) was prepared and reacted with 4,4′‐oxydianiline, 4,4′‐diaminobenzanilide and 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)dianiline to yield novel Y‐type polyimides 5‐7 containing 2,4‐dioxybenzylidenemalononitrile groups as nonlinear optical (NLO) chromophores, which constitute parts of the polymer backbone. The resulting polyimides 5‐7 are soluble in polar solvents such as dimethylsulfoxide and N,N‐dimethylformamide. Polymers 5‐7 showed a thermal stability up to 330 °C in thermogravimetric analysis thermograms with Tg values obtained from differential scanning calorimetry thermograms in the range 179–194 °C. The second harmonic generation (SHG) coefficients (d33) of poled polymer films at the 1064 nm fundamental wavelength were around 5.56 × 10−9 esu. The dipole alignment exhibited exceptionally high thermal stability even at 20 °C higher than the glass‐transition temperature there was no SHG decay below 215 °C because of the partial main‐chain character of polymer structure, which is acceptable for NLO device applications. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 3078–3087, 2008
Fiber structure development in high‐speed melt spinning of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT)—On‐line measurement of birefringence
Authors: Hou Kim Kyoung , Hok Cho Hyun , Ito Hiroshi , Kikutani Takeshi
Published: March 2008

To investigate the mechanism of fiber structure development for poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) in high‐speed spinning, the PTT fiber was spun with take‐up speeds from 1 to 8 km/min and simultaneously birefringence and diameter in spin‐line were measured by on‐line measurement system. The orientation‐induced crystallization of PTT fiber started to be developed at 3–4 km/min, where an abrupt decrease in diameter and an increase in birefringence appeared. The birefringence increased up to 4 km/min, decreased suddenly, and then increased gradually. The sudden decrease of birefringence at 4–5 km/min might be caused by an increase of crystalline fraction due to the fact that the intrinsic crystalline birefringence of PTT is over 10 times as low as that of PET. In WAXD images, crystalline diffraction emerged faintly at 3 km/min and distinct diffraction arcs were observed at 4–5 km/min and above. The diffraction intensity increased and the tilting angle also increased with take‐up speed. The long period structure observed in SAXS pattern started to emerge at 6 km/min, and its scattering intensity increased with take‐up speed. The long period structure was ∼11–12 nm long. The cold crystallization temperature in DSC thermogram shifted to lower temperature and diminished due to the orientation‐induced crystallization as take‐up speed increased, but the melting temperature hardly increased unlike PBT and PET. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 847–856, 2008
Promotion of the γ‐phase of polyamide 6 in its nanocomposite with phosphate glass
Authors: Rawal A. , Fang X.‐W. , Urman K. , Iverson D. , Otaigbe J. U. , Schmidt‐Rohr K.
Published: March 2008

The effect of tin fluorophosphate‐glass (Pglass) nanoparticles on the polyamide‐6 (PA6) matrix in Pglass/PA6 hybrids has been investigated by 13C solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The crystallinity determined by direct‐polarization 13C NMR combined with longitudinal relaxation‐time (T1C) filtering varied between 31 and 44%. T1C‐filtered 13C spectra with cross polarization clearly showed resonances of both the α‐ and γ‐crystalline phases of PA6, typically at ratios near 45:55, while the similarly processed neat polymer contained only the α‐phase. This suggests that the Pglass promotes the growth of the γ‐crystalline phase. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 857–860, 2008
Solvent‐dependent formation of inclusion complexes between methylated cyclodextrins and biodegradable polymers
Authors: Shin Kyung‐Moo , Dong Tungalag , Yazawa Kouji , Im Seung‐Soon , Inoue Yoshio
Published: March 2008

The inclusion complexes (ICs) of unmodified natural and methylated α‐cyclodextrins (CDs) with biodegradable polymers, polyethylene glycol and poly(ε‐caprolactone), were prepared by two methods, that is, the one using water and the other using chloroform as the solvent for the respective CDs. The ICs obtained were characterized by IR, WAXD, DSC, and 13C CP/MAS NMR. It was found that the possibility and the phenomena of IC formation could be varied with the degree of methyl substitution of CD as well as the type of solvents used. Methylated α‐CDs showed the prominent characteristics of IC formation with polymers in the case where chloroform was used than in the case where water was used as the solvent for CDs, while vice versa in the case of native α‐CD. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 46: 879–891, 2008
Recombination as a mechanism for sporadic mutation in the surfactant protein‐C gene
Authors: McBee Amy D. , Wegner Daniel J. , Carlson Christopher S. , Wambach Jennifer A. , Yang Ping , Heins Hillary B. , Saugstad Ola D. , Trusgnich Michelle A. , Watkins‐Torry Julie , Nogee Lawrence M. , Henderson Howard , Cole F. Sessions , Hamvas Aaron
Published: March 2008

Objective

To determine haplotype background of common mutations in the genes encoding surfactant proteins B and C (SFTPB and SFTPC) and to assess recombination in SFTPC.

Study Design

Using comprehensive resequencing of SFTPC and SFTPB, we assessed linkage disequilibrium (LD) (D′), and computationally inferred haplotypes. We computed average recombination rates and Bayes factors (BFs) within SFTPC in a population cohort and near SFTPC (±50 kb) in HapMap cohorts. We then biochemically confirmed haplotypes in families with sporadic SFTPC mutations (n = 11) and in individuals with the common SFTPB mutation (121ins2, n = 30).

Results

We detected strong evidence (weak LD and BFs > 1,400) for an intragenic recombination hot spot in both genes. The 121ins2 SFTPB mutation occurred predominantly (89%) on 2 common haplotypes. In contrast, no consistent haplotypes were associated with mutated SFTPC alleles. Sporadic SFTPC mutations arose on the paternal allele in four of five families; the remaining child had evidence for somatic recombination on the mutated allele.

Conclusions

In contrast to SFTPB, disease alleles at SFTPC do not share a common haplotype background. Most sporadic mutations in SFTPC occurred on the paternal allele, but somatic recombination may be an important mechanism of mutation in SFTPC. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:443–450. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Early lung disease in young children with primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Brown David E. , Pittman Jessica E. , Leigh Margaret W. , Fordham Lynn , Davis Stephanie D.
Published: March 2008

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is an autosomal recessive disease in which ciliary dysfunction leads to chronic lung, sinus, and middle ear disease. PCD is often not diagnosed until late childhood due to its presumed rarity and the technical expertise necessary for diagnosis; as such, little is known about lung disease in young children with PCD. We report on 3 young children with PCD who had evidence of lung disease on infant pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, and/or computed tomography (CT) of the chest before 3 years of age. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008; 43:514–516. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.