bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Costs and Benefits of Outpatient Diabetes Education and Nutrition Counseling
Authors: Kaplan Robert M , Davis Wayne K
Published: March 2007

The Board of Directors of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recently endorsed a resolution recommending third-party payment for outpatient education and nutritional counseling. One of the major rationales for the statement was that education and nutritional counseling will lead to reductions in health care costs. This article critically reviews the 13 studies cited in support of the ADA Policy Statement. Among these studies, only 2 compared a treated group with a control group. Both of the studies with control groups failed to randomly assign patients to treatment condition. Only 4 of the studies showed an accounting of program costs. Upon close inspection, it appears that some of the programs actually increased, rather than decreased, health care expenditures. Attrition from programs was reported in only a minority of cases, and was large when reported. The effect of the programs upon diabetes control was inconsistent across studies. It is suggested that the rationale for education and nutritional services be based on improved health status. In addition, the execution of a systematic experimental study to evaluate these services is urged.
subclinical Eating Disorders and Glycemic Control in Adolescents with Type I Diabetes
Authors: Wing Rena R , Nowalk Mary Patricia , Marcus Marsha D , Koeske Randi , Finegold David
Published: March 2007

Several recent case reports have shown that anorexia nervosa and bulimia negatively affect glycemic control in diabetic patients. However, there have been no systematic studies to assess the prevalence of clinical or subclinical eating disorders among diabetic patients or to determine the impact of such disturbances on glycemic control. This study reports a survey of 202 adolescents, aged 12–18 yr, seen in the Diabetes Clinic, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, who were asked to complete the Binge Eating Scale (BES) and the EAT-26 questionnaire. Responses of diabetic patients to the EAT-26 questionnaire were compared with those of a nondiabetic control group and were related to measures of glycemic control. Diabetic subjects scored higher on the total EAT-26 than nondiabetic control subjects, ordinarily indicative of more eating pathology. However, diabetic subjects scored higher only on the dieting subscale of this questionnaire, probably reflecting adherence to the diabetes dietary regimen. Subjects with diabetes scored lower, or did not differ significantly, from nondiabetic control subjects on measures of oral control and bulimia. Among diabetic subjects, self-reported bulimic behaviors were related to poorer glycemic control. Patients with the highest scores on the BES had an average HbA1 of 13.1% compared with 11.8% for age- and sex-matched patients at the 50th percentile, and 10.8% for patients in the lowest 10th percentile. Further studies are needed to determine whether modification of these eating behaviors would improve glycemic control.
Patient Perspective on Factors Contributing to Nonadherence to Diabetes Regimen
Authors: Ary Dennis V , Toobert Deborah , Wilson Willetta , Glasgow Russell E
Published: March 2007

This study assessed levels of regimen adherence and reasons for nonadherence to different aspects of diabetes regimen for persons with type I (insulin-dependent, N = 24) and type II (non-insulin-dependent, N = 184) diabetes. Standardized questions revealed few differences between type I and type II participants on either levels of reported adherence or reasons for nonadherence. Subjects reported adhering least well to dietary and physical activity components of the regimen. Open-ended questions revealed that the most common reasons for dietary nonadherence were the situational factors of eating out at restaurants and inappropriate food offers from others. In contrast, negative physical reactions were the most frequently reported reasons for exercise nonadherence. The implications of these findings for diabetes education are discussed.
Use of Liquid Crystal Thermography in the Evaluation of the Diabetic Foot
Authors: Stess Richard M , Sisney Pamela C , Moss Kathryn M , Graf Peter M , Louie Karen S , Gooding Gretchen A W , Grunfeld Carl
Published: March 2007

Liquid crystal thermography (LCT) was used to determine temperature variations on theplantar surface of feet. The purpose was to identify thermal emission patterns associated with diabetic foot ulcers. Three population groups were screened: group I, 16 nondiabetic controls; group II, 21 diabetic patients with no history of pedal ulcers; and group III, 28 diabetic patients with active pedal ulceration or history of foot ulcerations. The results demonstrate a generalized increase in plantar foot temperature in group III compared with groups I and II. Temperature readings under metatarsal heads 1–5, great toe, heel, and lateral band were significantly increased (P < .01) in group III. Additionally, the warm lateral surface displayed by group III patients was not significantly different in temperature from the medial arch of the foot. In groups I and II, the lateral band was significantly cooler (P < .01) than the medial arch. In group III patients with active ulceration on only one foot, no significant difference in temperature was found between the foot with active ulceration compared with the contralateral nonulcerated foot. When patients with active pedal ulceration were compared with patients with a history of foot ulcers, no significant difference in temperature was seen at five of seven sites tested. A warm concentric color band surrounding active plantar ulcers was identified in group III. This pattern extended from the center of the ulcer to a distance of 8 mm. A significant change in temperature (P < .01) was noted at 6- and 8-mm distances from the center of the ulcer. In addition, a mottled thermographic pattern was observed more frequently in group III patients than in groups I and II. In summary, group III demonstrated significantly increased skin temperatures and identifiable thermographic emission patterns, which distinguish them from normal. These findings suggest the need for prospective studies to evaluate LCT as a diagnostic modality in the prediction of foot ulceration in the diabetic population.
Psychological Adjustment of Children With Recently Diagnosed Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Jacobson A M , Hauser S T , Wertlieb D , Wolfsdorf J I , Orleans J , Vieyra M
Published: March 2007

Children with recent onset of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) were compared with a sample of children with a recent acute medical problem. No differences were found in terms of self-esteem, locus of control, behavioral symptoms, or social functioning. A separate assessment of adjustment to diabetes was strongly correlated with each of these general personality, behavioral symptom, and social functioning measures. Sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, and social class did not predict the level of adjustment to diabetes. This study suggests that onset of diabetes does not necessarily lead to major disruptions of psychological adaptation. It also affirms the view that early adjustment to diabetes is embedded in a context of overall personality development and adaptation.
Quantitative Analysis of Glucose Loss During Acute Therapy for Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Syndrome
Authors: West M L , Marsden P A , Singer G G , Halperin M L
Published: March 2007

Four patients with severe hyperglycemia and hyperosmolality were studied to quantitate the major mechanisms responsible for the fall in blood glucose concentration. Insulin was not administered to any of these patients during the first 15 h of therapy. In each case, there was a fall in glucose concentration due to dilution; this was quantitated by chloride space analysis and accounted for 24–34% of the fall in concentration. The size of the glucose pool decreased for two reasons. Glucosuria accounted for the majority of the reduction in the size of the glucose pool in the patients with the smallest decrease in extracellular fluid (ECF) volume [and hence the best preserved glomerular filtration rate (GFR)]. In contrast, glucosuria was a less important factor in causing glucose loss in the patients with very low GFR values. The size of the glucose pool also decreased due to glucose metabolism that did not require exogenous insulin. Thus the fall in glucose concentration in the initial therapy in patients with the hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome is multifactorial and is not absolutely dependent on exogenous insulin. Furthermore, the patients grouped in this diagnostic category represent a heterogeneous population with the common features of severe hyperglycemia, hyperosmolality, and a negative or weakly reactive test for serum ketones.
Wolfram's Syndrome: A Clinical, Diagnostic, and Interpretative Contribution
Authors: Blasi C , Pierelli F , Rispoli E , Saponara M , Vingolo E , Andreani D
Published: March 2007

Four cases (belonging to two different families) of Wolfram's syndrome (WS), a rare congenital disease characterized in its complete form by insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy, diabetes insipidus, deafness, and dilation of the urinary tracts are presented, and a review of the literature is included. Three of four patients are characterized by HLA-DR2 haplotype, which is rare in IDDM. The neurodegenerative nature of some symptoms and the possible pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus connected with it are discussed.
Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion: Change in Basal Infusion Rate has No Immediate Effect on Insulin Absorption Rate
Authors: Hildebrandt P , Birch K , Jensen B M , Kühl C
Published: March 2007

Eight insulin-dependent diabetic patients were simultaneously given subcutaneous infusions (1.12 IU/h each) of 1251-labeled Actrapid insulin in each side of the abdominal wall. After 24 h of infusion, the size of the infused insulin depots was measured by external counting for 5 h. The basal infusion rate was then doubled in one side and halved in the other for the next 4 h. Finally, 1.12 IU/h of insulin was given in both sides of the abdominal wall for an additional 3 h. The changes in the size of the depots were measured, and the absorption rates for each hour were calculated. During the first 5 h of infusion, the depot size was almost constant (∼5 IU) with an absorption rate that equaled the infusion rate. Doubling the infusion rate led to a significant increase in depot size, but the absorption rate remained unchanged for the first 3 h, and only thereafter was a significant increase seen. When the infusion rate was reduced to the initial 1.12 IU/h, the absorption rate remained elevated during the next 3 h. Correspondingly, when the infusion rate was decreased, the depot size also decreased, but the absorption rate remained unchanged for the first 3 h.

The results show that a change in the basal insulin infusion rate does not lead to any immediate change in the insulin absorption rate. This should be considered when planning an insulin-infusion program that includes alteration(s) in the basal-rate setting.
Insulin Strategies for Primary Care Providers
Authors: Herbst Karen L. , Hirsch Irl B.
Published: March 2007

IN BRIEF

Primary care providers take care of the majority of patients with diabetes in the United States. The introduction of new insulin analogs over the past few years should help primary practitioners and their patients with diabetes achieve physiological insulin replacement and near-normal glucose levels. This article reviews currently available insulins and replacement of insulin in a physiological manner for patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and provides examples of patients for whom insulin dosages changed over time.
Treatment of Obesity: An Overview
Authors: Fabricatore Anthony N. , Wadden Thomas A.
Published: March 2007

In Brief

Obesity and type 2 diabetes commonly co-occur. Weight loss is associated with significant health benefits, including improved glycemic control and reduced blood pressure. This article reviews approaches to the treatment of obesity, considers special issues relevant to obese patients with type 2 diabetes, and presents suggestions for the prevention of obesity.
Cognitive and Physical Disabilities and Aging-Related Complications of Diabetes
Authors: Gregg Edward W. , Brown Arleen
Published: March 2007

In Brief

As older adults make up an increasingly larger portion of the diabetic population, the spectrum of diabetes complications will likely expand. In addition to the traditional vascular complications, diabetes has been associated with excess risk for cognitive and physical decline, falls, fractures, and depression. These complications, which are common and can profoundly affect quality of life, will challenge clinicians, health care systems, and public health organizations to identify effective ways of optimizing quality of life among older adults with diabetes.
Osteoporosis: An Under-appreciated Complication of Diabetes
Authors: Brown Sue A. , Sharpless Julie L.
Published: March 2007

In Brief

Care of patients with diabetes should include an assessment of bone health. It is now clear that patients with type 1 diabetes have lower bone mineral density (BMD) and higher risk of fractures. Evidence is accumulating that patients with type 2 diabetes who have complications are also at increased risk of certain types of osteoporotic fractures despite having a higher BMD when compared to patients with type 1 diabetes. Therapeutic interventions are key to preventing fractures, both by improving bone density and decreasing the risk for falls.
Heart Failure: A Serious and Common Comorbidity of Diabetes
Authors: Bell David S.H.
Published: March 2007

In Brief

Because of the cardiotoxic triad (diabetic cardiomyopathy, hypertension, and coronary artery disease), heart failure (HF) has an increased prevalence and worse prognosis in diabetic patients. Treatment of HF is directed to glycemic control and blockade of the renin-angiotensin and sympathetic nervous system, primarily with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and a combined α-/β-blocker. The goal is preventing and reversing myocardial remodeling, which will improve ventricular function.
Effects of Glycemic Control on Diabetes Complications and on the Prevention of Diabetes
Authors: Skyler Jay S.
Published: March 2007

IN BRIEF

Randomized, controlled clinical trials (RCTs), completed during the past several years or currently underway, are defining the scientific basis of contemporary diabetes care. In terms of glycemic control, landmark RCTs have demonstrated that meticulous glycemic control reduces risk of microvascular and neurological complications of diabetes. Studies in pre-diabetes have shown that early intervention slows progression to diabetes. Ongoing studies are examining the effects of glycemic interventions on macrovascular complications of diabetes, the impact of early treatment on the course of diabetes, and whether there are differences depending on the nature of the intervention used.
Laminar xanthine oxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in the prodromal stage of black‐walnut induced equine laminitis
Authors: LOFTUS J. P. , BELKNAP J. K. , STANKIEWICZ K. M. , BLACK S. J.
Published: March 2007

Reasons for study: Xanthine oxidase (XO)‐dependent production of superoxide anion and hydrogen peroxide, a characteristic of ischaemia‐reperfusion injury, may contribute to the development of equine laminitis.

Objective: To determine the levels of XO and antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase [SOD]) in the digital laminae of normal horses (CON) and horses in the developmental stage of laminitis using the black walnut extract (BWE) model.

Methods: Healthy horses (n = 12) were administered BWE (BWE group, n = 6), or water (CON group, n = 6) through a nasogastric tube. At the onset of leucopenia in the BWE‐treated animals, all horses were anaesthetised, digital laminae and other samples collected rapidly and flash frozen, and the animals subjected to euthanasia. Extracts of the frozen tissues were assayed for the 2 conformational forms of xanthine: oxygen oxidoreductase (XOR), namely, xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) and xanthine oxidase (XO), as well as the antioxidant enzymes, SOD and catalase.

Results: Extracts of liver, lungs and skin, but not digital laminae, from either CON or BWE‐treated horses had endogenous SOD, whereas all had endogenous XO and catalase. The levels of XDH, XO and catalase were similar in extracts of laminae from CON and BWE‐treated horses as was the ratio of XDH to XO in extracts.

Conclusions and potential relevance: The absence of increased XO activity suggest against the involvement of this reactive oxygen intermediate‐generating system in the development of laminar pathology in BWE‐treated horses. Conversely, the absence of SOD from extracts of equine digital laminae, but not other tissues, suggests that the equine digital laminae are highly susceptible to damage by superoxide anion, produced, for example, by emigrant inflammatory leucocytes.
Ultrasound‐guided coxofemoral arthrocentesis in horses
Authors: DAVID F. , ROUGIER M. , ALEXANDER K. , MORISSET S.
Published: March 2007

Reason for performing study: Coxofemoral joint pain is probably underestimated due to difficulties in identifying hip pain. The deep location of the joint and proximity of the sciatic nerve make arthrocentesis based on external landmarks a difficult and potentially risky procedure in mature horses.

Objectives: To describe an ultrasound‐guided injection technique of the coxofemoral joint in standing horses and to evaluate its accuracy and potential difficulties/complications.

Methods: Nine mature horses had both pelvic areas prepared for sterile ultrasound examination (3.5 MHz curvilinear probe). Coxofemoral joints were located and penetrated at their craniodorsolateral aspect under ultrasonographic guidance and injected with sterile contrast medium. A standing ventrodorsal radiographic view of each hemipelvis centred on the hip was obtained for each horse to assess the injection site. Horses were evaluated for 10 days following injection for possible complications.

Results: Intra‐articular injection was successful in all 18 joints. The procedure was well tolerated by horses under minimal restraint. Mean ± s.d. needle repositionings required before accurate placement was 1.5 ± 1.3 per joint. Once the needle was in the joint, synovial fluid was obtained in 7/18 joints. Minimal periarticular contrast medium was detected in 2/18 joints. Mean ± s.d. ultrasonographic examination time required for coxofemoral localisation, accurate needle positioning and injection was 4.3 ± 2.1 min. No complications were observed in the 10 days following injection.

Conclusion: The ultrasound‐guided coxofemoral arthrocentesis is an accurate, reliable and safe technique that offers a real time evaluation of needle introduction into the deep and narrow coxofemoral joint space.

Potential relevance: Although this technique remains to be tested on clinical cases, it is a promising tool to facilitate diagnosis of coxofemoral pain, septic arthritis or administration of intra‐articular medication.
Morphological alterations in oxidative muscles and mitochondrial structure associated with equine atypical myopathy
Authors: CASSART D. , BAISE E. , CHEREL Y. , DELGUSTE C. , ANTOINE N. , VOTION D. , AMORY H. , ROLLIN F. , LINDEN A. , COIGNOUL F. , DESMECHT D.
Published: March 2007

Reasons for performing study: There is a lack of well documented studies about muscular lesions in equine atypical myopathy (EAM).

Objectives: To characterise morphopathological changes of striated muscles and myocardium, to progress understanding of this disease.

Methods: Thirty‐two horses age 0.5–7 years kept on pasture were referred for a sudden ataxia/myoglobinuria syndrome. Clinical examination (stiffness, muscle pain, muscle fasciculations, abnormal gait, recumbency, myoglobinuria, tachycardia, sweating) and plasma CPK, LDH and AST levels were consistent with extensive myonecrosis and, together with anamnestic data, with so‐called ‘equine atypical myopathy’ (EAM), a disease of unknown aetiology reported since 1939. Macroscopic and microscopic (histology, histoenzymology, ultrastructure) lesions were evaluated.

Results: Necropsic examination revealed large areas of muscle necrosis, the extent and severity of which varied between cases and muscles, but which were clearly more constant and severe in respiratory and postural muscles and in the myocardium. Histology highlighted a multifocal and monophasic process compatible with Zenker degeneration/necrosis that mostly and segmentally affected type 1 fibres. Histochemical evaluation revealed a weak and disorganised pattern of NADH tetrazolium reductase staining, the absence of calcium salts precipitates and a dramatic accumulation of lipid droplets. Ultrastructural examination often revealed fibres of which the sole modifications were altered mitochondria and sarcoplasmic lipidosis.

Conclusions: Taken together, the data suggest that a primary alteration of mitochondria should be considered, although secondary mitochondrial abnormalities have yet to be ruled out.

Potential relevance: The morphological features gathered here reveal that EAM shares most of the characteristics of toxic myopathies.
Endoscopic scoring of the tracheal septum in horses and its clinical relevance for the evaluation of lower airway health in horses
Authors: KOCH C. , STRAUB R. , RAMSEYER A. , WIDMER A. , ROBINSON N. E. , GERBER V.
Published: March 2007

Reasons for performing study: Although endoscopic scoring of the tracheal septum thickness is used as a diagnostic tool for evaluation of lower airway disease, its clinical relevance and reliability have never been critically assessed in the horse.

Objectives: To investigate if septum thickness scores (STS) are reliable and serve as a clinically useful indicator of lower airway disease status and/or inflammation.

Methods: The variance of STS attributable to the horse, observer and changes over time was determined. The distribution of STS in a population of clinically normal horses and correlations of STS with age, gender, as well as mucus accumulation and cell differentials of tracheobronchial secretions and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were investigated. Effects of altered pulmonary ventilation, induced by different drugs, on STS were assessed. Finally, STS of horses affected with recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) were compared to those of clinically normal horses.

Results: Recorded STS showed excellent intra‐ and satisfactory interobserver agreement. Established clinical, endoscopic and cytological measures of lower airway inflammation, i.e. mucus accumulation scores and airway neutrophilia, did not correlate with STS. In horses age ≥10 years, septum scores were significantly higher (P = 0.022) than in younger horses. Septum thickness scores did not differ significantly between clinically normal and RAO‐affected horses both in exacerbation and in remission. Horses with markedly increased breathing effort (i.e. with metacholine‐ or lobeline hydrochloride‐challenge), often differed markedly (up to 1.9 scores), but the average of end‐inspiratory and end‐expiratory STS did not differ from baseline STS.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: Endoscopic STS are a reproducible measure, but STS did not correlate with clinical, endoscopic and cytological findings indicative of RAO or inflammatory airway disease.
Structure‐properties relationship in resol/montmorillonite nanocomposites
Authors: Manfredi L. B. , Puglia D. , Kenny J. M. , Vázquez A.
Published: March 2007

Polymer/layered silicate nanocomposites were prepared, adding modified, and nonmodified montmorillonites to a resol resin. It was observed that the composites exhibited an intercalated disordered structure by means of X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electronic microscopy. The crosslinking density of the resol network was greatly influenced by the presence and type of clay that was added to the resin. The composites filled with the modified montmorillonites showed a lower glass transition temperature value as well as a higher degradation peak at ∼ 400°C, which is characteristic of the degradation of methylene bridges, indicating a decrease in the crosslinking density of the resol network when modified clays are added. Resol/unmodified montmorillonite composites exhibited different behavior comparing to the other composites and the resol. A higher thermal resistance was observed in the fragmentation zone and a different tan δ response was seen in the DMA analysis. These differences in the behavior of the composites could be because of the interaction between the resol prepolymer and the clay modifiers and as a result of their chemical compatibility. The hardness and elastic modulus of the resol were improved with the addition of clays. However, higher values were obtained for the composite made with the more dispersed montmorillonite. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric polyelectrolyte complex of chitosan and polyethyleneglycol‐monosuccinate: Preparation and characterization
Authors: Son Taewon , Kim Daesun , Kim Byunggiu , Koo Kang , Park Youngmi , Kim Jungae , Lim Haksang
Published: March 2007

Stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) was prepared with polyethylene glycol‐monosuccinate (PEGMS), and chitosan (CS). A series of PEGMS were synthesized by a 1 : 1 mol ratio between PEG and succinic anhydride. Then, the novel PEC was prepared by a various mole reaction of the above synthesized PEGMS and CS. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized PEC was characterized by using elemental analysis, FTIR, 1H, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance, dissolution behavior, and phase transition phenomenon. Furthermore, some properties of the PEC obtained were analyzed by UV‐Visible spectrometry, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimeter, scanning electron microscope, and estimated solubility, and cell viability assay, respectively. It was found that the observed FTIR, 1H, and 13C‐NMR data was in good agreement with the chemical structure of the prepared PEGMS and PEC. The dissolution behaviors of nonstoichiometric PEC were found to depend on the pH of the solution as well as on the PEGMS/CS composition. The study of MTT assay suggested that the viability of HepG2 human hepatoblastoma cell on PEC were increased significantly in accordance with mole ratio of CS. As the results, the obtained several product is a useful intermediate, which permits further chemical modification for the amino group of CS and may have potential applications in biocompatible or cosmetic systems. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Poly(methyl methacrylate) toughened by ethylene‐vinyl acetate copolymer: Physico‐mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties
Authors: Poomalai P. , Ramaraj B. , Siddaramaiah
Published: March 2007

Blends of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) with different composition viz., 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt % of ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer were prepared by extrusion in a corotating twin screw extruder. These prepared PMMA/EVA blends have been characterized for physicomechanical properties such as density, surface hardness, izod impact strength, tensile strength, tensile elongation, and tensile modulus. The chemical aging and heat aging tests were performed on the blends by exposing them to different chemical environments and to 80°C for 168 h respectively. The influence of chemical aging and heat ageing on the mechanical performance of PMMA/EVA blends has been studied. The PMMA/EVA blends were also characterized for thermal properties such as vicat softening point (VSP) and melt flow index (MFI). That means significant improvement in impact strength of PMMA was noticed after incorporation of EVA into PMMA matrix and it lies in the range 19.1–31.96 J/m. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Influence of low‐temperature plasma on the ink‐jet‐printed cotton fabric
Authors: Yuen C. W. M. , Kan C. W.
Published: March 2007

This article studies the effect of low‐temperature plasma (LTP) on an ink‐jet‐printed cotton fabric. Owing to the specific printing and conductivity requirements for ink‐jet printing, none of the conventional printing chemicals used for cotton fabric can be directly incorporated into the ink formulation. As a result, the cotton fabric requires pretreatment with the printing chemicals prior to the stage of ink‐jet printing. The aim of this article is to study the possibility and effectiveness of applying LTP treatment to enhance the performance of pretreatment paste containing sodium alginate so as to improve the properties of the ink‐jet‐printed cotton fabric. Scanning electron microscopic pictures show that LTP treatment may cause cracks on the fiber surface and hence more dyes could approach the fiber surface during the ink‐jet printing process, leading to a higher dye uptake subsequently. In addition, not only the dye uptake is increased after the LTP treatment but the color‐fastness properties and the definition of the final print marks are also improved. Therefore, LTP pretreatment in couple with the ink‐jet printing technique could improve the final printed properties of cotton fabric. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Synthesis of calix[4]crown‐4 oligomers containing hard and soft ion binding sites
Authors: Li Haibing , Tian Demei , Xiong Dejun , Gao Zhinong
Published: March 2007

Three calix [4]crown‐4 derivatives and their oligomers, p‐tert‐butylcalix [4]crown‐4 oligomer 5, p‐tert‐butylcalix [4]dioxacrown‐4 oligomer 6, p‐tert‐butylcalix [4]diazacrown‐4 oligomer 7 that contain hard and soft ion binding sites, are synthesized to estimate selective extraction of cesium ions from the aqueous to the organic phase. The binding sites may complex alkali metal ions or transition metal ions selectively. Oligomers are fairly good extractants for transition metal ions in comparison with their monomers, which suggests that polyoxyethylene bridges are efficient for complexing metal ions, especially for transition metal ions. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
Early versus late surgical drainage for obstructive pancreatitis in an experimental model
Authors: Lamme B , Boermeester M A , Straatsburg I H , van Buijtenen J M , Boerma D , Offerhaus G J A , Gouma D J , van Gulik T M
Published: March 2007

Background

Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is characterized by intractable abdominal pain, and pancreatic exocrine and endocrine dysfunction. This study investigated whether early surgical drainage of pancreatic duct obstruction leads to improved recovery of pancreatic function compared with late surgical drainage in an experimental model of chronic obstructive pancreatitis.

Methods

Twenty-one piglets underwent pancreatic duct ligation and subsequent longitudinal pancreaticojejunostomy after 3 weeks (early drainage) or 6 weeks (late drainage), and drainage continued for 6 weeks. In controls with CP pancreatic duct ligation was continued for 12 weeks without a drainage procedure.

Results

Histological pancreatitis scores decreased with early drainage (P = 0·005), but not with late drainage. Pancreatic secretion of amylase and lipase was restored after early but not late drainage (P = 0·003 and P = 0·048 respectively). Excretion levels of lipase were restored to near-baseline preligation levels after early drainage. Pancreatic endocrine function (glucose tolerance test) showed no insufficiency in either group.

Conclusion

In this model of early versus late surgical drainage of obstructive pancreatitis, histology grades and pancreatic exocrine function showed improvement in the early drainage group but no recovery in the late drainage group.
Relaxation of the isolated human internal anal sphincter by sildenafil
Authors: Ballester C , Sarriá B , García-Granero E , Morcillo E J , Lledó S , Cortijo J
Published: March 2007

Background

Hypertonicity of the internal anal sphincter (IAS) appears to be involved in the pathogenesis of anal fissure. The relaxant effects of sildenafil, a selective phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, on isolated human IAS were investigated.

Methods

The efficacy (maximal effect, Emax) and potency (−log IC50, where IC50 is half-maximal inhibitory concentration) of the PDE5 inhibitors, sildenafil and zaprinast, and of nitric oxide donors, sodium nitroprusside and glyceryl trinitrate, as relaxants of histamine (0·1 mmol/l)-induced tone were examined in IAS strips under isometric contraction. The presence of PDE5 isoenzymes and changes in intracellular calcium and cyclic nucleotide levels in IAS muscle were tested by real-time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction, epifluorescence microscopy and enzyme immunoassay respectively.

Results

Sildenafil produced a concentration-related inhibition of the mean(s.e.m.) histamine-induced tone (Emax 83(2) per cent, − log IC50 7·04(0·05); n = 12). Zaprinast produced relaxation to similar degree, but with lower potency. Nitric oxide donors also relaxed IAS. Sildenafil (1 µmol/l) produced a 1·8-fold increase in guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate content, with no change in adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate levels. Sildenafil markedly depressed the peak intracellular calcium increase evoked by histamine. PDE5A1, PDE5A2 and PDE5A3 transcripts were expressed in IAS muscle.

Conclusion

Sildenafil relaxes the augmented tone of human IAS in vitro. These results support the potential use of this PDE5 inhibitor in the treatment of chronic anal fissure.
Interaction study of aspirin or clopidogrel on pharmacokinetics of donepezil hydrochloride in rats by HPLC‐fluorescence detection
Authors: Wada Mitsuhiro , Nishiwaki Junichiro , Yamane Tomoko , Ohwaki Yuichi , Aboul‐Enein Hassan Y. , Nakashima Kenichiro
Published: March 2007

The present study aims to investigate the possibility of interaction of aspirin (Asp) or clopidogrel (CG) on donepezil (DP) hydrochloride in rats by HPLC‐fluorescence detection. The separation of DP was achieved in ca. 13 min without interference of Asp and CG on the chromatogram. DP levels in rat plasma with a single administration of DP (5 mg/kg, i.p., group I) and those with a co‐administration of Asp (200 mg/kg, p.o., group II or 200 mg/kg, i.p., group III) or CG (5 mg/kg, p.o., group IV) were monitored. The DP concentrations determined in rat plasma ranged from 25.0 to 336.1 ng/mL. Pharmacokinetic parameters for these groups were calculated and compared with one another. No significant difference was observed on the comparison of group I with other groups except for the mean resident time of group IV (p = 0.012). These basic findings may help clinical inference when DP is co‐administered with Asp and CG to human. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural Analysis of the Capsular Polysaccharide from Campylobacter jejuni RM1221
Authors: Gilbert Michel , Mandrell Robert E. , Parker Craig T. , Li Jianjun , Vinogradov Evgeny
Published: March 2007

The complete genome of Campylobacter jejuni strain RM1221 (Penner serotype HS:53) was reported recently and contains a novel capsular polysaccharide (CPS) biosynthesis locus. Cell‐surface carbohydrates such as CPS are known to be important for bacterial survival and often contribute to pathogenesis. In this study, we describe the complete structure of the CPS of C. jejuni RM1221, which was determined by using NMR spectroscopy, MS, and chemical methods. The CPS contains 6‐deoxy‐D‐manno‐heptose and D‐threo‐pent‐2‐ulose (D‐xylulose), two monosaccharides that are rarely found in bacterial polysaccharides. The CPS has a regular structure of a linear main chain of trisaccharide repeating units, composed of two α‐ and one β‐6‐deoxy‐D‐manno‐heptopyranose residues, which are linked through a phosphodiester linkage. Branching residues of xylulose are incorporated nonstoichiometrically: each trisaccharide repeating unit of the main chain bears no, one, or two xylulose residues. The xylulose glycosidic linkages are extremely acid labile, and it is not clear how they can be preserved under the acidic conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, where Campylobacter resides during infection. We have also shown that the CPS biosynthesis genes of C. jejuni RM1221 are conserved in other C. jejuni strains of the Penner serotype HS:53, including serotype HS:53 reference strain RM3435.
Mechanisms of Oxidation of Guanine in DNA by Carbonate Radical Anion, a Decomposition Product of Nitrosoperoxycarbonate
Authors: Lee Young Ae , Yun Byeong Hwa , Kim Seog K. , Margolin Yelena , Dedon Peter C. , Geacintov Nicholas E. , Shafirovich Vladimir
Published: March 2007

Peroxynitrite is produced during inflammation and combines rapidly with carbon dioxide to yield the unstable nitrosoperoxycarbonate, which decomposes (in part) to CO3.− and .NO2 radicals. The CO3.− radicals oxidize guanine bases in DNA through a one‐electron transfer reaction process that ultimately results in the formation of stable guanine oxidation products. Here we have explored these mechanisms, starting with a spectroscopic study of the kinetics of electron transfer from 20–22mer double‐stranded oligonucleotides to CO3.− radicals, together with the effects of base sequence on the formation of the end‐products in runs of one, two, or three contiguous guanines. The distributions of these alkali‐labile lesions were determined by gel electrophoresis methods. The cascade of events was initiated through the use of 308 nm XeCl excimer laser pulses to generate CO3.− radicals by an established method based on the photodissociation of persulfate to sulfate radicals and the oxidation of bicarbonate. Although the Saito model (Saito et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 1995, 117, 6406–6407) predicts relative ease of one‐electron oxidations in DNA, following the trend 5′‐⋅⋅⋅GGG⋅⋅⋅ > 5′‐⋅⋅⋅GG⋅⋅⋅ > 5′‐⋅⋅⋅G⋅⋅⋅, we found that the rate constants for CO3.−‐mediated oxidation of guanines in these sequence contexts (k5) showed only small variation within a narrow range [(1.5–3.0)×107 M−1 s−1]. In contrast, the distributions of the end‐products are dependent on the base sequence context and are higher at the 5′‐G in 5′‐⋅⋅⋅GG⋅⋅⋅ sequences and at the first two 5′‐guanines in the 5′‐⋅⋅⋅GGG⋅⋅⋅ sequences. These effects are attributed to a combination of initial hole distributions among the contiguous guanines and the subsequent differences in chemical reaction yields at each guanine. The lack of dependence of k5 on sequence context indicates that the one‐electron oxidation of guanine in DNA by CO3.− radicals occurs by an inner‐sphere mechanism.
Cyano‐bridged Ln3+‐Cr3+ Binuclear Complexes [Ln(L)x(H2O)yCr(CN)6]·mL·nH2O (Ln=La–Nd, x=5, y=2, m=1 or 2, n=2 or 2.5; Ln=Sm–Dy, Er, x=4, y=3, m=0, n=1.5 or 2.0; L=2‐pyrrolidinone): Structure, Magnetism and Spin Density Map
Authors: Sun Xian‐Ru , Chen Zhi‐Da , Wang Ming‐Wei , Wang Bing‐Wu , Yan Feng , Cheung Kung‐Kai
Published: March 2007

In order to shed light upon the nature and mechanism of 4f‐3d magnetic exchange interactions, a series of binuclear complexes of lanthanide(3+) and chromium(3+) with the general formula [Ln(L)5(H2O)2Cr(CN)6]·mL·nH2O (Ln=La (1), Ce (2), Pr (3), Nd (4); x=5, y=2, m=1 or 2, n=2 or 2.5; L=2‐pyrrolidinone) and [Ln(L)4(H2O)3Cr(CN)6] ·nH2O (Ln=Sm (5), Eu (6), Gd (7), Tb (8), Dy (9), Er (10); x=4, y=3, m=0, n=1.5 or 2.0; L2‐pyrrolidinone) were prepared and the X‐ray crystal structures of complexes 2, 6 and 7 were determined. All the compounds consist of a Ln‐CN‐Cr unit, in which Ln3+ in a square antiprism environment is bridged to an octahedral coordinated Cr3+ ion through a cyano group. The magnetic properties of the complexes 3 and 6–10 show an overall antiferromagnetic behavior. The fitting to the experimental magnetic susceptibilities of 7 give g=1.98, J=0.40 cm−1, zJ′=−0.21 cm−1 on the basis of a binuclear spin system (SGd=7/2, SCr=3/2), revealing an intra‐molecular Gd3+‐Cr3+ ferromagnetic interaction and an inter‐molecular antiferromagnetic interaction. For 7 the calculation of quantum chemical density functional theory (DFT), combined with the broken symmetry approach, showed that the calculated spin coupling constant was 20.3 cm−1, supporting the observation of weak ferromagnetic intra‐molecular interaction in 7. The spin density distributions of 7 in both the high spin ground state and the broken symmetry state were obtained, and the spin coupling mechanism between Gd3+ and Cr3+ was discussed.
Sulfur‐Selective Desulfurization of Dibenzothiophene and Diesel Oil by Newly Isolated RhodococcuserythropolisNCC‐1
Authors: Li Yu‐Guang , Ma Jie , Zhang Qian‐Qian , Wang Chang‐Shui , Chen Qian
Published: March 2007

A dibenzothiophene (DBT)‐desulfurizing bacteria strain was isolated from oil‐contaminated soils and identified as Rhodococcus erythropolis NCC‐1. Strain NCC‐1 was found to convert DBT to hydroxybiphenyl (2‐HBP) via the 4S pathway and also be able to use organic sulfur compounds other than DBT as a sole sulfur source. The strain could desulfurize 4,6‐dimethyldibenzothiophene (4,6‐DMDBT), which is one of the most recalcitrant dibenzothiophene derivatives to hydrodesulfurization. When two type of oils, a model oil [n‐hexadecane (n‐C16) containing DBT] and a hydrodesulfurized diesel oil with various organic sulfur compounds, were treated with Rhodococcus erythropolis NCC‐1 cells, the total sulfur content significantly decreased, from 150 to 20 mg/L for n‐C16 and from 554 to 274 mg/L for diesel oil. The newly isolated strain NCC‐1 is considered to have good potential for application in the biodesulfurization of fossil fuels.
Elementary trouble‐shooting for poor signal‐to‐noise ratios of NMR spectrometers
Authors: D. Traficante Daniel
Published: March 2007

When the signal‐to‐noise ratio of an NMR spectrometer falls below an acceptable point, one or more of the following items need to be measured or tested: resolution, probe transmitter and receiver coils, observe and decoupler radio‐frequency power amplifiers (transmitters), electronic devices connecting the probe to the receiver in the console, and the receiver section in the console. An elementary trouble‐shooting procedure and a flow‐chart are presented to aid in isolating the specific problem area. The procedure is based on the standard methods employed for trouble‐shooting in the fieldof electronics. The overall spectrometer system is first divided into sections, and then each one is checked for proper operation. The section that is not operating properly is then further divided into smaller ones, and each section checked again. The process is continued until the smallest repairable unit is identified.
Fundamental Concepts of NMR in Paramagnetic Systems. Part II: Relaxation Effects
Authors: Satterlee James D.
Published: March 2007

Paramagnetic effects on nuclear relaxation processes are described in the framework of the Solomon‐Bloembergen concepts. The factors contributing to nuclear relaxation, including the instantaneous electron‐nuclear dipolar and contact couplings and the Curie spin effect, are described using simplified cases. Spectral effects are illustrated, and the factors that allow various metal ions to function as either shift or relaxation agents are qualitatively described.
Carbon‐13 NMR spectroscopy. It was not always easy
Authors: Traficante Daniel D.
Published: March 2007

The development of carbon‐13 NMR spectroscopy is presented from a historical perspective. The problems that were associated with instrumental limitations are reviewed, as are experimental techniques used to circumvent or minimize them. Sweeping, instrument maintenance, probe modifications, proton decoupling, and time averaging are among the topics of discussion.
Uses of shaped pulses in NMR: A primer
Authors: McDonald Sylvia , Warren Warren S.
Published: March 2007

This is an overview of the effects of shaped radiofrequency pulses and instrumental requirements for pulse shaping. We summarize what is known in general about pulse shaping and the tradeoffs involved in choosing a pulse shape for specific experiments. We also discuss computerized optimization, which is the method used to derive most of the pulse shapes in common use, and present a program which optimizes pulse shapes for any desired excitation profile. We also summarize the current literature by listing representative papers with detailed and useful waveforms.
A new approach to avoid excessive numerical diffusion in Eulerian–Lagrangian methods
Authors: Younes A. , Fahs M. , Ackerer P.
Published: March 2007

Lumping is often used to avoid non‐physical oscillations for advection–dispersion equations but is known to add numerical diffusion. A new approach is detailed in order to avoid excessive numerical diffusion in Eulerian–Lagrangian methods when several time steps are used. The basic idea of this approach is to keep the same characteristics during all time steps and to interpolate only the concentration variations due to the dispersion process. In this way, numerical diffusion due to the lumping is removed at the end of each time step. The method is combined with the Eulerian–Lagrangian localized adjoint method (ELLAM) which is a mass conservative characteristic method for solving the advection–dispersion equation.

Two test problems are modelled to compare the proposed method to the consistent, the full and the selective lumping approaches for linear and non‐linear transport equations. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performing great and the purpose of performing better than others: on the recursiveness of the achievement goal adoption process
Authors: Van Yperen Nico W. , Renkema Lennart J.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of the present research is to complement and extend previous achievement goal research by emphasizing that great performance may serve as an antecedent of performance‐approach goal adoption, that is, the wish to outperform others. A consistent finding across the three studies is, indeed, that great (perceived) performance and high performance expectancies are associated with the adoption of performance‐approach goals. It is concluded that the process of goal adoption is a dynamic, recursive process in which performance attainment is most likely to operate as both an antecedent and a consequence of goal adoption. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimation of a two‐dimensional seismic compressional‐wave velocity distribution by iterative tomographic imaging
Authors: Zhu Xianhuai , McMechan George A.
Published: March 2007

Two‐dimensional velocity distributions may be estimated using iterative tomographic imaging. The medium is parameterized as a grid of small rectangular elements, each of which has constant (unknown) slowness (s); the data are refraction travel‐times (t) picked from the real data, which are transmitted between sources and recorders both located on the Earth's surface. Slowness estimation is performed by solution of the system of equations t = DsT where D is a matrix of ray segment lengths, and T denotes the vector transpose. The solution involves minimization of the difference between the real and predicted travel‐times and is equally applicable to under and over‐determined problems. As matrix D is very large it cannot be inverted directly, and a row‐action, simultaneous iterative reconstruction technique is used. Predicted travel‐times are obtained by vectorized ray tracing. Rays are updated every few iterations so that they are internally consistent with the velocity estimated by tomography. The wider the source and recording apertures, the greater the depths that can be imaged. Rays refracted at the shallowest depths contain independent constraints that cannot be replaced by increasing the amount of data refracted at greater depths.