bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of EDI with solvent‐free MALDI and LDI for the analysis of organic pigments
Authors: Kudaka Ichiro , Asakawa Daiki , Mori Kunihiko , Hiraoka Kenzo
Published: February 2008

To evaluate the applicability of EDI to material analysis as a new ionization method, a comparison of EDI with solvent‐free matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) and laser desorption ionization (LDI) was made for the analysis of organic pigments, e.g. Pigment Yellow 93, Pigment Yellow 180, and Pigment Green 36, as test samples, which are poorly soluble in standard solvents. In EDI, the samples were prepared in two ways: deposition of suspended samples in appropriate solvents and dried on the substrate, and the direct deposition of the powder samples on the substrate. No matrices were used. Both sample preparation methods gave similar mass spectra. Equally strong signals of [M + H]+ and [M − H]− ions were observed with some fragment ions for azo pigments in the respective positive or negative mode of operation. For the powder sample of the phthalocyanine pigment PG36, M+• and [M + H]+ in the positive mode and M−• in the negative mode of operation were observed as major ions. Positive‐mode, solvent‐free MALDI gave M+, [M + H]+ and [M + Na]+ and negative mode gave [M − H]− depending on the sample preparation. As solvent‐free MALDI, EDI was also found to be an easy‐to‐operate, versatile method for the samples as received. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypoxic expansion promotes the chondrogenic potential of articular chondrocytes
Authors: Egli Rainer J. , Bastian Johannes D. , Ganz Reinhold , Hofstetter Willy , Leunig Michael
Published: February 2008

For cell‐based cartilage repair strategies, an ex vivo expansion phase is required to obtain sufficient numbers of cells needed for therapy. Although recent reports demonstrated the central role of oxygen for the function and differentiation of chondrocytes, a beneficial effect of low oxygen concentrations during the expansion of the cells to further improve their chondrogenic capacity has not been investigated. Therefore, freshly harvested bovine articular chondrocytes were grown in two‐dimensional monolayer cultures at 1.5% and 21% O2 and redifferentiation was subsequently induced in three‐dimensional micromass cultures at 1.5%, 5%, and 21% O2. Cells expanded at 1.5% O2 were characterized by low citrate synthase (aerobic energy metabolism)—and high LDH (anaerobic energy metabolism)—activities, suggesting an anaerobic energy metabolism. Collagen type II mRNA was twofold higher in cells expanded at 1.5% as compared to expansion at 21% O2. Micromass cultures grown at 21% O2 showed up to a twofold increase in the tissue content of glycosaminoglycans when formed with cells expanded at 1.5% instead of 21% O2. However, no differences in the levels of transcripts and in the staining for collagen type II protein were observed in these micromass cultures. Hypoxia (1.5% and 5% O2) applied during micromass cultures gave rise to tissues with low contents of glycosaminoglycans only. In vivo, the chondrocytes are adapted to a hypoxic environment. Taking this into account, by applying 1.5% O2 in the expansion phase in the course of cell‐based cartilage repair strategies, may result in a repair tissue with higher quality by increasing the content of glycosaminoglycans. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:977–985, 2008
p38 MAPK inhibition modulates rabbit nucleus pulposus cell response to IL‐1
Authors: Studer Rebecca K. , Gilbertson Lars G. , Georgescu Helga , Sowa Gwendolyn , Vo Nam , Kang James D.
Published: February 2008

Analysis of disc gene expression implicated IL‐1 in the development of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) in a rabbit stab model. The purpose of these studies is to determine the role of p38 Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase (p38 MAPK) signaling in nucleus pulposus cell response to IL‐1, and to compare rabbit nucleus pulposus (rNP) cell responses to IL‐1 activation with those in a stab model of disc degeneration. NP cells maintained in alginate bead culture were exposed to IL‐1, with or without p38 MAPK inhibition. RNA was isolated for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis of gene expression, conditioned media analyzed for accumulation of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E‐2 (PGE‐2), and proteoglycan synthesis measured after 10 days. IL‐1 upregulation of mRNA for cycloxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), matrix metalloproteinase‐3 (MMP‐3), IL‐1, and IL‐6, was blunted by p38 inhibition while downregulation of matrix proteins (collagen I, collagen II, aggrecan) and insulin‐like‐growth‐factor I (IFG‐1) was also reversed. mRNA for tissue inhibitor of matrixmetalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) was modestly increased by IL‐1, while those for Transforming Growth Factor‐β (TGF‐β) SOX‐9, and versican remained unchanged. Blocking p38 MAPK reduced IL‐1 induced NO and PGE‐2 accumulation and partially restored proteoglycan synthesis. p38 MAPK inhibition in control cells increased mRNA for matrix proteins (aggrecan, collagen II, versican, collagen I) and anabolic factors (IGF‐1, TGF, and SOX‐9) from 50% to 120%, decreased basal PGE‐2 accumulation, but had no effect on message for TIMP‐1, MMP‐3, or COX‐2. Inhibition of p38 MAPK in cytokine‐activated disc cells blunts gene expression and production of factors associated with inflammation, pain, and disc matrix catabolism while reversing IL‐1 downregulation of matrix protein gene expression and proteoglycan synthesis. The results support the hypothesis that IL‐1 could be responsible for many of the mRNA changes seen in rabbit NP in the stab model of disc degeneration, and uphold the concept that development of molecular techniques to block p38 MAPK could provide a therapeutic approach to slow the course of intervertebral disc degeneration. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:991–998, 2008
Role of the fibula in lower leg fractures: An in vivo investigation in rats
Authors: Horn Joachim , Steen Harald , Reikerås Olav
Published: February 2008

Whether or not the fibula should be fixated in combined fractures of the tibia and fibula remains controversial. Several clinical and biomechanical studies have investigated the role of the fibula in lower leg fractures without leading to a common conclusion. We assumed that an intact or stable fibula would provide better healing conditions in lower leg fractures treated with an intramedullary nail. In an in vivo study, 40 male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to two groups. In both groups, the tibia was osteotomized, whereas the fibula was left intact in one group and osteotomized in the other group. The tibia fracture was fixated with an intramedullary nail. After sacrifice of the animals, mineral density, mineral content, and mechanical characteristics of the healing osteotomies were evaluated. We found that a combination of tibia and fibula fracture significantly impaired fracture healing during the early phase after the incident, when treated with an intramedullary nail, suggesting that an intact or stabilized fibula provides additional support and better healing conditions to a tibia fracture. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1027–1031, 2008
Chromium picolinate can ameliorate the negative effects of heat stress and enhance performance, carcass and meat traits in broiler chickens by reducing the circulatory cortisol level
Authors: Samanta Saikat , Haldar Sudipto , Bahadur Vijay , Ghosh Tapan K
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND: Dietary chromium (Cr3+) supplementation reduces stress in livestock by lowering circulatory cortisol and potentiating the action of insulin. This study aimed to assess the stress‐alleviating effects of supplemental Cr3+ as chromium picolinate in broilers.

RESULTS: The birds, which were heat stressed and had restricted feed intake between 31 and 40 days of age, were supplemented with 0 (control), 0.5 or 1 mg Cr3+ kg−1 diet from 10 to 40 days of age. Live weight gain, feed efficiency, utilisation efficiency of energy and protein and conversion efficiency of feed protein to muscle protein improved owing to Cr3+ supplementation (P < 0.05), especially during the period of feed restriction. Cr3+ supplementation increased hot and eviscerated carcass weights and breast weight (P < 0.05) and reduced ether extract content (P = 0.02, linear effect). Meat protein accretion improved owing to Cr3+ supplementation (P = 0.006, quadratic effect). Relative to its pre‐supplementation value, serum cortisol increased by 2.3% in the control group and decreased by 7.6 and 14.3% in the 0.5 and 1 mg Cr3+‐supplemented birds respectively (age × diet interaction P = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION: It was concluded that supplemental Cr3+ may ameliorate heat stress and augment growth in broilers during periods of physical feed restriction. However, increasing the inclusion of Cr3+ beyond the dose level of 0.5 mg kg−1 diet may not be substantially beneficial. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
The psychological impact of impending forced settler disengagement in Gaza: Trauma and posttraumatic growth
Authors: Hall Brian J. , Hobfoll Stevan E. , Palmieri Patrick A. , Canetti‐Nisim Daphna , Shapira Oren , Johnson Robert J. , Galea Sandro
Published: February 2008

The Israeli government's decision to remove settlers in the Gaza Strip forcibly produced a situation of traumatic stress, resulting from confrontation and conflict for settlers. The authors examined the effects of the Gaza disengagement, that occurred following prolonged terrorist exposure, on rates of probable major depressive disorder (MDD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis in a representative sample of Gaza settlers (N = 190). Predictors of probable MDD in multivariate models were being female, and experiencing greater economic and psychosocial resource loss. Predictors of probable PTSD were being older and experiencing greater psychosocial resource loss. Posttraumatic growth was significantly related to a reduction in the odds of having probable PTSD. This latter finding is interpreted within our conceptualization of action‐focused growth.
The internalizing and externalizing structure of psychiatric comorbidity in combat veterans
Authors: Miller Mark W. , Fogler Jason M. , Wolf Erika J. , Kaloupek Danny G. , Keane Terence M.
Published: February 2008

This study examined the latent structure of psychiatric disorders in a sample with a high prevalence of PTSD. A series of confirmatory factor analyses tested competing models for the covariation between Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐III‐R diagnoses among 1,325 Vietnam veterans. The best‐fitting solution was a 3‐factor model that included two correlated internalizing factors: anxious‐misery, defined by PTSD and major depression, and fear, defined by panic disorder/agoraphobia and obsessive‐compulsive disorder. The third factor, externalizing, was defined by antisocial personality disorder, alcohol abuse/dependence, and drug abuse/dependence. Both substance‐related disorders also showed significant, albeit smaller, cross‐loadings on the anxious‐misery factor. These findings shed new light on the structure of psychiatric comorbidity in a treatment‐seeking sample characterized by high rates of PTSD.
The association of exposure, risk, and resiliency factors with PTSD among Jews and Arabs exposed to repeated acts of terrorism in Israel
Authors: Hobfoll Stevan E. , Canetti‐Nisim Daphna , Johnson Robert J. , Palmieri Patrick A. , Varley Joseph D. , Galea Sandro
Published: February 2008

Israel has faced ongoing terrorism since the beginning of the Al Aqsa Intifada in September 2000. The authors examined risk and resiliency factors associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among 1,117 Jews and 394 Arab adult citizens of Israel during August and September 2004 through telephone interviews. Probable PTSD was found among 6.6% of Jews and 18.0% of Arabs. Predictors of probable PTSD in a multivariate model for Jews were refusal to report income, being traditionally religious, economic and psychosocial resource loss, greater traumatic growth, and lower social support. For Arabs, predictors were low education and economic resource loss among those exposed to terrorism. Findings for only those directly exposed to terrorism were similar to those for the overall national sample.
Fucoidan from Laminaria cichorioides inhibits AP‐1 transactivation and cell transformation in the mouse epidermal JB6 cells
Authors: Lee Na Yeon , Ermakova Svetlana P. , Choi Hoo‐Kyun , Kusaykin Michail I. , Shevchenko Natalya M. , Zvyagintseva Tatyana N. , Choi Hong Seok
Published: February 2008

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweeds, has anticoagulant and antithrombotic activities. Unlike heparine, fucoidan is known to exhibit anticarcinogenic activities. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the chemopreventive activities of fucoidan are not understood. Here we report that fucoidan from Laminaria cichorioides inhibited the epidermal growth factor (EGF) or 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA)‐induced neoplastic cell transformation, but had less cytotoxic effects on JB6 mouse epidermal cells. The EGF‐induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases, and c‐Jun was inhibited by fucoidan, resulting from the inhibition of phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Fucoidan dose‐dependently attenuated the c‐fos or c‐jun transcriptional activity, and thereby inhibited the associated activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) transactivation activity. In vitro binding assay revealed that fucoidan directly interacted with EGF, suggested that antitumor promoting effect of fucoidan might be due to preventing the binding of EGF to its cell surface receptor (EGFR). These findings are the first to reveal a molecular basis for the anticarcinogenic action of fucoidan and may partially account for the reported chemopreventive effects of brown seaweeds. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo imaging of a diabetogenic CD8+ T cell response during type 1 diabetes progression
Authors: Medarova Zdravka , Tsai Sue , Evgenov Natalia , Santamaria Pere , Moore Anna
Published: February 2008

Type 1 diabetes is preceded by a long, protracted period of pancreatic islet inflammation by autoreactive lymphocytes. Noninvasive imaging of islet inflammation prior to the onset of hyperglycemia might have diagnostic and therapeutic implications, but this is not currently possible. Here, MRI is used to track, noninvasively, the accumulation diabetogenic CD8+ T‐cells during type 1 diabetes progression in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice. The contrast agent is an MRI probe (MN‐NRP‐V7) that specifically labels CD8+ T‐cells recognizing residues 206–214 of islet‐specific glucose‐6‐phosphatase catalytic subunit related protein (IGRP206–214) in the context of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule H‐2Kd. This probe consists of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MN) coated with Kd molecules presenting NRP‐V7, a high‐avidity mimotope of IGRP206–214. NOD mice of different ages (5, 8, 15, and 24 weeks) were imaged by MRI before and after a single intravenous injection of MN‐NRP‐V7 or unmodified MN nanoparticles. MN‐NRP‐V7 accumulation, as determined by semiquantitative MRI analysis of pancreas‐associated T2 relaxation time, was antigen‐specific, age‐dependent, and well correlated with the numbers of MN‐NRP‐V7‐labeled CD8+ T‐cells recovered from the pancreata of the treated mice. Antigen/MHC‐coupled nanoparticles represent a promising new avenue for noninvasive imaging of lymphocyte inflammation in organ‐specific autoimmunity and transplantation. Magn Reson Med, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Success Criteria and Factors for International Development Projects: A Life-Cycle-Based Framework
Authors: Khang Do Ba , Moe Tun Lin
Published: February 2008

The paper presents a new conceptual model for not-for-profit international development projects that identifies different sets of success criteria and factors in the project life-cycle phases and then provides the dynamic linkages among these criteria and factors. The model can serve as a basis to evaluate the project status and to forecast the results progressively throughout the stages. Thus, it helps the project management team and the key stakeholders prioritize their attention and scarce development resources to ensure successful project completion. Empirical data from a field survey conducted in selected Southeast Asian countries confirm the model's validity and also illustrate important managerial implications.
Isomerization and rearrangement of (E)‐ and (Z)‐phenylhydrazones of 3‐benzoyl‐5‐phenyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazole: evidence for a ‘new’ type of acid‐catalysis by copper(II) salts in mononuclear rearrangement of heterocycles
Authors: D'Anna Francesca , Frenna Vincenzo , Guernelli Susanna , Macaluso Gabriella , Marullo Salvatore , Spinelli Domenico
Published: February 2008

A kinetic investigation in methanol of the title reaction has evidenced the occurrence of two processes: the 1‐E $ \mathbin{\lower.3ex\hbox{$\buildrel\textstyle\rightarrow\over {\smash{\leftarrow}\vphantom{_{\vbox to.5ex{\vss}}}}$}} $ 1‐Z isomerization and the rearrangement of the (Z)‐isomer into the relevant 4‐benzoylamino‐2,5‐diphenyl‐1,2,3‐triazole (1‐
Z → T). The latter reaction is in line with the ability of the (Z)‐phenylhydrazones of 3‐benzoyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazoles to undergo the so called mononuclear rearrangement of heterocycles (MRH). The occurrence of both the examined reactions is dependent on a Lewis‐acid‐catalysis. The obtained results have shown the possibility of a ‘new’ type of acid‐catalysis (bifunctional catalysis by Lewis salts) in the MRH. This catalysis operates through a completely different mechanism with respect to the one recently observed, and deeply investigated, in the presence of protic acids for the (Z)‐phenylhydrazone of 5‐amino‐3‐benzoyl‐1,2,4‐oxadiazole, in both dioxane/water and toluene, for which the catalytic process was dependent on the protonation of N(4) ring‐nitrogen of the 1,2,4‐oxadiazole. As a matter of fact, the copper salts seem able to interact with the >CNNHC6H5 moiety, yielding adducts which, in some cases, are prone to both isomerize and rearrange. Therefore, a similar behaviour in some manner parallel to that already observed in benzene in the presence of aliphatic amines (base‐catalysis) has been evidenced. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and properties of amino acid esters of hydroxypropyl cellulose
Authors: Khan Fareha Zafar , Shiotsuki Masashi , Sanda Fumio , Nishio Yoshiyuki , Masuda Toshio
Published: February 2008

The amino acid esters of hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) [R′ = H (2a), CH3 (2b), CH2CH(CH3)2 (2c), CH2CONH2 (2d), CH2CH2CONH2 (2e), CH2CH2CH2CH2 NHOCOC(CH3)3 (2f)] were synthesized in good yield by the reaction of t‐butoxycarbonyl (t‐Boc)‐protected amino acids with hydroxy groups of HPC (1; molar substitution (MS), 4.61). The amino acid functionalities displaying varied chemical nature, shape, and bulk were utilized and the bulk of the substituent on the α‐carbon of amino acids was elucidated to be of vital significance for the observed degree of incorporation (DSEst). The 1H NMR spectra and elemental analysis were employed to determine the degree of incorporation of amino acid moiety (DSEst) and almost complete substitution of the hydroxy protons was revealed for 2a, 2b, and 2f. The presence of the peaks characteristic of the carbonyl group in the FTIR spectra furnished further evidence for the successful esterification of HPC. The starting as well as the resulting polymers (1 and 2a–f) were soluble in polar organic solvents; however, the esterification of 1 with bulky organic moieties resulted in an increased hydrophobicity as all of the amino acid‐functionalized polymers (2a–f) were insoluble in water. The onset temperatures of weight loss of 2a–f were 175–230 °C, indicating fair thermal stability. The amino acid functionalization led to the enhanced polymer chain stiffness, and the glass transition temperatures of the derivatized polymers were 30–40 °C higher than that of 1 (Tg 3.9 °C; cf. Tg of 2a–f, 35.1–43.3 °C). © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2326–2334, 2008
Arborescent polystyrene‐graft‐poly(tert‐butyl methacrylate) copolymers: Synthesis and enhanced polyelectrolyte effect in solution
Authors: Kee R. Andrew , Gauthier Mario
Published: February 2008

A technique is described for the preparation of arborescent graft copolymers containing poly(tert‐butyl methacrylate) (PtBMA) segments. For this purpose, tert‐butyl methacrylate is first polymerized with 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐methylpentyllithium in tetrahydrofuran. The graft copolymers are obtained by addition of a solution of a bromomethylated polystyrene substrate to the living PtBMA macroanion solution. Copolymers incorporating either short (Mw ≈ 5000) or long (Mw ≈ 30,000) PtBMA side chains were prepared by grafting onto linear, comb‐branched (G0), G1, and G2 bromomethylated arborescent polystyrenes. Branching functionalities ranging from 9 to 4500 and molecular weights ranging from 8.8 × 104 to 6.3 × 107 were obtained for the copolymers, while maintaining a low apparent polydispersity index (Mw/Mn ≈ 1.14–1.25). Arborescent polystyrene‐graft‐poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) copolymers were obtained by hydrolysis of the tert‐butyl methacrylate units. Dynamic light scattering measurements showed that the arborescent PMAA copolymers are more expanded than their linear PMAA analogues when neutralized with NaOH. This effect is attributed to the higher charge density in the branched arborescent copolymer structures. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2335–2346, 2008
Synthesis and characterization of functional polyesters tailored for biomedical applications
Authors: Cerbai Benedetta , Solaro Roberto , Chiellini Emo
Published: February 2008

This work aimed at the development of bioactive polymeric materials to be used for targeted drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. The proposed strategy was based on the design of macromolecular systems whose functionality can be easily modified. Polyesters containing side‐chain end capped by primary hydroxyl groups were synthesized by polyaddition of oxetanes and carboxylic anhydrides catalyzed by quaternary onium salts. The polyaddition of bis(oxetane) with different dicarboxylic acids was also investigated. In all cases, oxetane monomers contained one hydroxyl group either free or protected by a benzyl group. The polymer yield and molecular weight were relatively high when aromatic anhydrides were used. In all other cases, low conversions or no polymerization at all were obtained. In a parallel research line, several alkanols were successfully employed to synthesize different α,β′,β‐trisubstituted‐β‐lactones. These monomers were prepared in five steps starting from diethyl oxalpropionate according to established synthetic routes. Final yields depended on both preparation method and side‐chain structure. By using quaternary ammonium salts as catalysts, the synthesized functional lactones underwent anionic ring opening polymerization leading to the corresponding homopolymers and copolymers in fairly good yields. The prepared polymeric materials were extensively characterized by spectroscopic techniques, size exclusion chromatography, and thermal analysis. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2459–2476, 2008
Breakdown kinetics of aggregates from poly(ethylene glycol‐bl‐propylene sulfide) di‐ and triblock copolymers induced by a non‐ionic surfactant
Authors: Cerritelli Simona , Velluto Diana , Hubbell Jeffrey A. , Fontana Antonella
Published: February 2008

We explored the effects of addition of the nonionic surfactant Triton X‐100 on the stability of aggregates of poly(ethylene glycol‐bl‐propylene sulfide) di‐ and triblock copolymers. Fluorescence spectra of pyrene, used as a probe molecule, elucidated the various stages of transformation from pure copolymeric micelles to surfactant‐rich micelles. Turbidity measurements yielded insight into the mechanism of the interaction, the hydrophobicity of the copolymer driving the process. Triton X‐100 tends to strongly interact with highly hydrophobic copolymers by inserting into the core of the micellar aggregates. On the other hand, Triton X‐100 tends to interact with the corona of micelles formed by less hydrophobic copolymers which, for this reason, are more stable upon addition of this destabilizing agent. Kinetic data give evidence that only monomers, not micelles of surfactant, interact with the copolymer micelles. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2477–2487, 2008
Synthesis and modification of supports with an alkylamine and their use in albumin adsorption
Authors: Gomez Cesar G. , Strumia Miriam C.
Published: February 2008

The morphological effect of polymeric networks (R) modified with terminal amino groups was studied on the adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA). Networks of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate [poly (EGDMA‐co‐HEMA)] were synthesized by suspension polymerization, using different EGDMA contents and agitation speeds. These matrices were characterized by FTIR, mercury intrusion porosimetry, SEM, and swelling degree. The increase of the EGDMA concentration led to the formation of networks with the highest crosslinking degree and porosity. An earlier phase separation yielded a higher aggregation of rigid microspheres, also forming stable pore systems. The increase in coalescence frequency, together with the impeller speed, and the decrease of the stabilizer molecules led to an increment in drop size. Large fused aggregates of microspheres were formed with additional loss of small pores as the stirring was increased, attaining also a higher pore volume (Vp) and a slight decrease of the surface area. Once characterized, networks were activated with butanediolglycidyl ether (BDGE), and then reacted with hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) through coupling reaction. Only the R‐BDGE‐HMDA networks synthesized with the highest EGDMA content and agitation speed showed BSA adsorption. Their base matrices exhibited a Vp higher than 1.4 mL/g, which allows easier protein diffusion into the support. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2557–2566, 2008
Synthesis and characterization of a starch‐modified hydrogel as potential carrier for drug delivery system
Authors: Reis Adriano V. , Guilherme Marcos R. , Moia Thais A. , Mattoso Luiz H. C. , Muniz Edvani C. , Tambourgi Elias B.
Published: February 2008

Synthesis and characterization of a new hydrogel were carried out using a chemically modified starch (starch‐M) consisting of coupling CC bounds coming from glycidil methacrylate (GMA) onto the polysaccharide structure. 13C NMR, 1H NMR, and FT‐IR spectroscopies were used to confirm the incorporation of such groups onto the starch‐M. The hydrogel was prepared by a crosslinking polymerization of starch‐M using sodium persulfate as an initiating agent. The starch‐M hydrogel shows morphology clearly different from that of the raw starch film due to the presence of voids on its surface. The swelling process of the starch‐M hydrogel was not significantly affected by changes on the temperature or on pH of the surrounding liquid, indicating the such behavior can be then understood by a diffusional process, resulting from its physical–chemical interactions with the solvent. The values of the diffusional exponent n were on the order of 0.45–0.49 for the range of pHs investigated, demonstrating that the water transport mechanism of starch‐M hydrogel is more dependent on Fickian diffusion, that is, controlled by water diffusion. Such starch‐M hydrogel is a promising candidate to be used in transporting and in preserving acid‐responsive drugs, such as corticoids, for the treatment of colon‐specific diseases, for example, Crohn's disease. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 2567–2574, 2008
Change in self‐efficacy partially mediates the effects of the FRESH START intervention on cancer survivors' dietary outcomes
Authors: Mosher Catherine E. , Fuemmeler Bernard F. , Sloane Richard , Kraus William E. , Lobach David F. , Snyder Denise Clutter , Demark‐Wahnefried Wendy
Published: February 2008

Objective: This study examined change in self‐efficacy as a mediator of the effects of a mailed print intervention on the dietary and exercise practices of newly diagnosed breast and prostate cancer survivors.

Method: A total of 543 breast and prostate cancer patients were recruited from 39 states and two provinces within North America. Participants were randomly assigned to receive a 10‐month program of tailored mailed print materials that aimed to increase fruit and vegetable consumption, reduce fat intake, and/or increase exercise or a 10‐month program of publically available materials on diet and exercise. Telephone surveys conducted at baseline and 1 year assessed dietary practices, physical activity, and self‐efficacy for engaging in these health behaviors.

Results: Results indicated that changes in self‐efficacy for fat restriction and eating more fruits and vegetables were significant mediators of the intervention's effects on dietary outcomes at 1‐year follow‐up. The intervention did not significantly affect self‐efficacy for exercise; however, a significant, positive relationship was found between self‐efficacy for exercise and exercise duration at follow‐up.

Conclusions: Findings are largely consistent with Social Cognitive Theory and support the use of strategies to increase self‐efficacy in health promotion interventions for cancer survivors. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ground penetrating radar survey and stratigraphic interpretation of the Plan du Lac rock glaciers, Vanoise Massif, northern French Alps
Authors: Monnier Sébastien , Camerlynck Christian , Rejiba Fayçal
Published: February 2008

Internal boundaries of the Plan du Lac rock glaciers in the northern French Alps were investigated using ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) and were correlated with the surface morphology. Data collected using 50 MHz antennae along three profiles were processed in a novel manner by applying modulated automatic gain control to discriminate reflection events according to coherence and continuity patterns. Based on the GPR and morphological analyses, the stratigraphy appears complex, with prominent internal boundaries dividing the features into several depositional units, interpreted as sequential creeping or thrusting events. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interchangeability of mountain permafrost probability models, northwest Canada
Authors: Lewkowicz Antoni G. , Bonnaventure Philip P.
Published: February 2008

Spatial models of mountain permafrost probability based on measurements of the basal temperature of snow (BTS) and ground‐truthing were developed for three study areas located >200 km apart. The interchangeability of these locally derived empirical‐statistical models was examined by predicting BTS values from the equations developed at the other two sites, and using logistic regression to relate these modelled values to the local ground‐truthed data. Equations for two of the areas were effectively interchangeable, producing permafrost extent predictions within 2% of each other, and permafrost probabilities within ±0.1 for more than 85% of the cells. Predictions were much less similar when their equations were applied to the third area and when its equation was applied to them. Model interchangeability appears to depend on where a site lies on a continuum from elevation controlled (infinite ratio of the standardised coefficient of elevation to that of potential incoming solar radiation in the BTS equation), to radiation dominated (ratio much less than unity of the same variables). Extensive ground‐truthing is essential, helping to constrain the logistic regression and hence the overall permafrost percentage. Additional investigations are needed to relate these ratios to regional climate in order to allow the spatial interpolation of permafrost probability models across the North American Cordillera. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On Preparation of Non‐Disrupted Particles by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Chau Adriane , Eslamian Morteza , Ashgriz Nasser
Published: February 2008

Using spray pyrolysis, solid fully‐filled zirconia particles were synthesized at relatively high reactor temperatures (∼ 400 °C) by adding NaCl as impurities to zirconium hydroxychloride (ZHC) precursor that would have lead to the formation of hollow disrupted particles otherwise. FE‐SEM images show that at comparable concentration of NaCl and ZHC both cubic and spherical NaCl/ZrO2 particles form. The particle characteristics were varied by varying solute concentration, type, and solvent content. Addition of NaCl caused the formation of both cubic and spherical particles which were non‐disrupted at even high temperatures. According to the EDS compositional analysis, the cubic particles had more Na content while the spherical ones had higher Zr content. It is concluded that growth mechanism of NaCl particles is different from that of zirconia particles. Drying of the former even at high temperatures leads to the formation of solid, fully‐filled, porous particles, whereas hollow, disrupted particles are formed using the latter.
Androgen receptor mediates the expression of UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase 2 B15 and B17 genes
Authors: Bao Bo‐Ying , Chuang Bin‐Fay , Wang Qianben , Sartor Oliver , Balk Steven P. , Brown Myles , Kantoff Philip W. , Lee Gwo‐Shu Mary
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND

Enhanced androgen receptor (AR) activity by increased testosterone availability may play important roles in prostate cancer progressing to castration resistant state. Comparison of expression profiles in androgen dependent and independent prostate tumors demonstrated a marked increase of the expression of UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase 2B15 (UGT2B15), an androgen catabolic enzyme. We investigated mechanisms controlling the differential expression of UGT2B15 and B17 in response to androgen treatments.

METHODS

Gene expression was determined by RT‐PCR. The association of AR with UGT2B15/B17 genes was determined by Chromatin immuno‐precipitation (CHIP). RNA interference was used to knock‐down gene expression.

RESULTS

UGT2B15 and B17 genes were not expressed in AR negative prostate cancer cell lines, PC3 and DU145, while they were expressed in AR positive cell lines, LNCaP, LNCaP‐abl (an androgen independent LNCaP sub‐line), and VCaP. The expression levels of UGT2B15/B17 were up‐regulated in LNCaP‐abl comparing to those in LNCaP. These results suggest the requirement of AR for the expression of UGT2B15/B17. Treatment with DHT down‐regulated the expression of UGT2B15/B17 in LNCaP in a time and dose dependent manner and this down‐regulation was competitively antagonized by flutamide and bicalutimide, suggesting a pathway mediated by AR. Further CHIP experiments demonstrated the direct interaction of AR with the promoter regions of UGT2B15/B17 genes. Knocking down AR expression in LNCaP significantly reduced the expression of UGT2B15/B17 and completely inhibited the DHT‐induced down‐regulation of UGT2B15/B17 genes.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that UGT2B15 and B17 are primary androgen‐regulated genes and AR is required for both their basal expression and their androgen‐regulated expression. Prostate 68:839–848, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recommended management of herpes skin infections
Authors: Cope Alison , Kudesia Goura
Published: February 2008

Herpes viruses are a common cause of viral skin infection seen in general practice ranging from minor skin lesions to life‐threatening illness. Our Drug Review considers the recommended management of herpes simplex and varicella‐zoster infections, followed by a review of prescription data, sources of further information and details of the treatments available in the Datafile. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Diagnosis and treatment of bacterial meningitis in children
Authors: Gour Anami
Published: February 2008

Our series Prescribing in children gives practical advice for successful management of childhood problems in general practice. Here, the author describes the identification, treatment and primary and secondary prevention of bacterial meningitis. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Improving wooden parts' quality by adopting DMAIC procedure
Authors: Li Ming‐Hsien Caleb , Al‐Refaie Abbas
Published: February 2008

This paper utilizes the six‐sigma define‐measure‐analyze‐improve‐control (DMAIC) procedure to improve quality through enhancing the measurement system capability (MSC) of a wood industry. In the first stage, the major reported defects at the customer site are identified, and then the performance of the measurement system is evaluated by conducting a gage repeatability and reproducibility (GR&R) experiment on a drilling process, i.e. the outputs of a drilling machine. The obtained results show that the measurement system is inadequate and results in wrong classification of the produced wooden parts. Thus, to improve MSC, corrective actions, including operators' training, proper selection of measuring instruments, and improved measuring methods, were implemented. To determine the achieved improvement in MSC, a second GR&R study was carried out under the same conditions. In conclusion, adopting the DMAIC procedure including GR&R study turns out to be an effective method in improving the quality system involving measurements. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and DFT study of the spectral behavior of new 4‐hydroxycoumarins
Authors: Stanchev Stancho , Jensen Frank , Manolov Ilia
Published: February 2008

4‐Hydroxycoumarins are compounds with a lot of applications as drugs and herbicides. They have very interesting spectral and chemical properties, which are investigated theoretically and experimentally. Some new 4‐hydroxycoumarins with arylydene‐β‐ketoester or arylydene‐2,4‐pentanedione side chain were synthesized by two step synthetic scheme. Their structure was characterized by UV–vis, IR, and 1H NMR methods. The spectral behavior of the optimized structures of these compounds was reproduced by the hybrid DFT methods B3LYP and B3P86 with 6‐31G** and aug‐cc‐pVDZ basis sets. Electronic excited states and vibrational frequencies were calculated. HF method was also used for comparison, because of the lack of electronic correlation. The theoretical spectra were compared with the experimental ones. A lot of compounds show good agreement between experimental and some of the theoretical data, especially obtained by aug‐cc‐pVDZ basis set. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2008
Role of the support material on laser desorption/ionization mass spectra
Authors: Gruszecka A. , Szymanska‐Chargot M. , Smolira A. , Cytawa J. , Michalak L.
Published: February 2008

We report the results of experimental studies on the effects of sample supports in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI‐MS). LDI time‐of‐flight (TOF) mass spectra obtained for C60 and insulin samples deposited onto standard stainless steel substrate and/or onto some non‐metallic materials (glass, scotch tape, floppy disc foil, Teflon foil, photocopy film), all recorded under identical, typical experimental conditions, have been compared with regard to their intensity and quality. The LDI investigations show that compared with stainless steel, glass and floppy disc foil sample supports boost (2–3.5 times) ion yields for C and C ions, respectively. The stainless steel and scotch tape sample supports are the best for the mass resolution of positive ions and the formation of (C60) (n ≤ 4) cluster ions, respectively. In the case of detection of insulin by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) we did not observe significant differences in sensitivity for the support materials tested. A mechanism of ion formation in the desorption plume is suggested. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unoccupied electronic states in polythiophene as probed by XAS and RAS
Authors: Ikeura‐Sekiguchi Hiromi , Sekiguchi Tetsuhiro
Published: February 2008

Polythiophene is a typical conducting polymer. Unoccupied electronic states near the Fermi level of polythiophene polycrystalline powder were probed using S 1s X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and S KL2, 3L2, 3 resonant Auger spectroscopy (RAS). Its overall XAS spectral shape resembles those of 2,‐2′‐bithiophene and α‐terthiophene polycrystalline powder. No energy shifts were observed in the π* and σ*(SC) states. In contrast, it was observed that the position of σ*(CC) resonance slightly shifts to lower energy concomitantly with the increase of thiophene repeating units. The normal Auger yield spectrum shows the lack of a delocalized peak, which suggests π*‐electrons remain localized at each thiophene unit during the S 1s core‐hole lifetime of ca 1.1 femtoseconds. Although π* and σ*(SC) states in XAS are not resolved because of their overlap of electronic transitions, they were separated by plotting spectator Auger yields as a function of excitation energy. Such unresolved states in XAS are demonstrated to be distinguishable using RAS technique if the Auger spectator shifts of the corresponding states differ mutually. Results of this study underscore that excitation energy‐dependent RAS can overcome the limitation of conventional XAS. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Failure characteristics of adhesively bonded aluminium for spacecraft applications
Authors: Grilli Rossana , Baker Mark A. , Dunn Barrie , Watts John F.
Published: February 2008

The surface characteristics of an aluminium alloy treated with a commercial chromate pretreatment have been studied by SAM, EDX, and XPS. XPS indicates that chromium is present in the conversion coating as both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) species, and that other components are present at the conversion‐coating surface, some in a reduced form. The deposition of the chromate layer is compromised of the presence of the intermetallics in the alloy, and the layer is cracked at the micrometer scale, presumably as a result of drying on removal from the bath. Failure of chromate‐treated aluminium bonded in lap‐shear configuration using a structural epoxy paste is shown to be cohesive in the adhesive but very close to the conversion coating/adhesive interface but alternating from one side of the glue line to the other. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of chromium and nitrogen co‐implantation on the characteristics of the passive layer developed on austenitic and duplex stainless steels
Authors: Abreu C. M. , Cristóbal M. J. , Nóvoa X. R. , Pena G. , Pérez M. C.
Published: February 2008

AISI 304L and SAF 2205 stainless steel samples were implanted with chromium plus nitrogen at saturation dose in order to improve their hardness and wear properties. Consequently, the passive layer is modified so that besides the detected presence of CrN, a clear decrease in the amount of Fe oxides forming the passive layer is detected in both steels; this effect is especially important in AISI 304L. Co‐implantation also causes Ni0 enrichment present at the metal/oxide of unimplanted steels to disappear. The induced changes in the electrochemical response in NaOH solution are finally considered. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth of electrodeposited gold on glassy carbon from a thiosulphate–sulphite electrolyte
Authors: Sobri S. , Roy S. , Aranyi D. , Nagy P. M. , Papp K. , Kalman E.
Published: February 2008

A solution containing thiosulphate and sulphite has been developed specially for microelectronics applications to replace the conventional cyanide‐based bath for long‐term sustainability of gold electroplating. However, at the end of the electrodeposition process, the spent electrolyte can contain a significant amount of gold in solution. Investigations have been done to study the feasibility of gold recovery from the spent thiosulphate–sulphite electrolyte. In a previous work, flat plate glassy carbon was used to study the initial nucleation mechanism of gold deposition. However, in that study the growth of nuclei or their eventual formation into a gold film was not examined. Here, we present the microscopy observations of crystal growth of gold on glassy carbon at longer deposition times as a function of deposition potentials. It was found that the initial deposition of gold at low‐cathodic potential corresponds to an electrochemical diffusion controlled gold discharge from which spherical nuclei are obtained. After a certain time the initial growing nuclei become unstable and the thin gold deposit begins to develop tips, which eventually grow larger and produce dendrites. The dendritic growth is controlled by surface‐diffusion limitations of gold. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian semiparametric ROC curve estimation and disease diagnosis
Authors: Branscum Adam J. , Johnson Wesley O. , Hanson Timothy E. , Gardner Ian A.
Published: February 2008

We develop a novel semiparametric modeling framework involving mixtures of Polya trees for screening data with the dual purpose of diagnosing infection or disease status and of assessing the accuracy of continuous diagnostic measures. In this framework, we obtain (i) predictive probabilities of ‘disease’ based on continuous diagnostic test outcomes in conjunction with other information, including relevant covariates and results from one or more independent binary diagnostic tests. An example would be the modeling of a serum enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) procedure for detecting antibodies to an infectious agent when used in conjunction with culture for antigen detection. Our second goal is to (ii) characterize measures of diagnostic performance of continuous tests by estimating receiver‐operating characteristic curves and area under the curve, primarily when such extra information is available.

When true disease status is unknown, parametric and nonparametric analyses require sufficient separation between the distributions of outcome values for the diseased and nondiseased populations. However, this overlap becomes less problematic when additional information in the form of either an informative ‘prior’ that is based on real (preferably data‐based) scientific input, or when additional information, or both, are available. The additional information can be used to distinguish ‘diseased’ from ‘nondiseased’ individuals. We present an example using simulated data that illustrates this point. We also present an example involving data from an animal‐health survey for Johne's disease, where the performance of a serum ELISA is evaluated using additional information obtained from fecal culture. Issues related to identifiability and partial identifiability are also discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Know‐how transfer: the role of social, economic/competitive, and firm boundary factors
Authors: Kachra Ariff , White Roderick E.
Published: February 2008

Using policy capture methodology, this study examines the effect of different contextual cues upon the know‐how transfer efforts reported by 79 biotechnology R&D scientists. Theoretically, these different cues are believed to affect the scientists' expectation of reciprocity, and thus their know‐how transfer behavior. Three types of contextual cues between the know‐how source and recipient were studied: competitiveness, social relationship, and within or across firm boundaries. We find these cues are associated, in the expected directions, with know‐how transfer effort. The findings support a general theory of reciprocity whereby social, competitive, and firm boundary cues have a summative effect upon the expectation of reciprocity and know‐how transfer. This is the first study to examine how these cues taken together influence the know‐how transfer decision. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.