bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using an immune functional assay to differentiate acute cellular rejection from recurrent hepatitis C in liver transplant patients
Authors: Cabrera Roniel , Ararat Miguel , Soldevila-Pico Consuelo , Dixon Lisa , Pan Jen-Jung , Firpi Roberto , Machicao Victor , Levy Cynthia , Nelson David , Morelli Giuseppe
Published: January 2009

In transplant recipients transplanted for hepatitis C, presentation of abnormal transaminases can herald the presentation of recurrent hepatitis C, cellular rejection, or both. Given the sometimes ambiguous histology with these 2 entities, the ability to distinguish them is of great importance because misinterpretation can potentially affect graft survival. We used an immune functional assay to help assess the etiology of abnormal liver function test results in liver transplant recipients. Blood samples for the immune functional assay were taken from 42 recipients prospectively at various times post-transplant and compared with clinical and histologic findings. In patients whose liver biopsy showed evidence of cellular rejection, the immune response was noted to be very high, whereas in those with active recurrence of hepatitis C, the immune response was found to be very low. This finding was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.0001). In those patients in whom there was no predominant histologic features suggesting 1 entity over the other, the immune response was higher than in those with aggressive hepatitis C but lower than in those with cellular rejection. In conclusion, these data show the potential utility of the ImmuKnow assay as a means of distinguishing hepatitis C from cellular rejection and its potential usefulness as a marker for outlining the progression of hepatitis C.
Upper midline incision for living donor right hepatectomy
Authors: Kim Seong Hoon , Cho Seong Yeon , Lee Kwang Woong , Park Sang-Jae , Han Sung-Sik
Published: January 2009

Innovations and refinements in the techniques of living donor right hepatectomy (LDRH) have been made over the past decades, but the type and size of abdominal incision have been at a standstill since its inception. We introduce herein the upper midline incision for LDRH using the standard open technique. A prospective case-matched study was conducted on 23 consecutive donors who underwent LDRH under a supraumbilical upper midline incision (I group) from February to May 2008. These donors were matched 1:1 to 23 right liver donors with a conventional J-shaped incision (J group) according to age, gender, and body mass index. Under the mean incision length of 13.5 cm, LDRH was successfully completed in all 23 donors without extension of the incision, with a mean operative time of 232.3 ± 29.2 minutes. No donors required blood transfusion during surgery. There were 2 cases of postoperative bleeding immediately controlled under the same incision and a case of pleural effusion. All donors fully recovered and returned to their previous activities. All grafts have been functioning well. Compared with the J group, the I group had a shorter operative time, a shorter period of analgesic use, and, after discharge, infrequent complaints of wound pain. This upper midline incision, even without laparoscopic assistance, can be used for LDRH with less pain and without impairing safety, reproducibility, or effectivity, allowing the seemingly insufficient incision to be recommended to the transplant centers that are practicing living donor liver transplantation.
Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 expression in non-tumorous cirrhotic liver is higher when hepatoma is beyond milan criteria
Authors: Aucejo Federico , Kim Richard , Zein Nizar , Quintini Cristiano , Uso Teresa Diago , Lopez Rocio , Eghtesad Bijan , Fung John , Miller Charles , Yerian Lisa
Published: January 2009

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly vascular tumor. Angiogenesis in HCC is mediated at least in part by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which is expressed in HCC and surrounding cirrhotic tissue. VEGF mediates its angiogenic effects through multiple receptors including VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFr2, KDR/FLK-1), The distribution and clinical significance of VEGFr2 expression in HCC and cirrhotic liver in the setting of liver transplantation have not been tissue site specific evaluated. Immunohistochemical staining for VEGFr2 was performed in 78 liver explants from patients with HCC undergoing liver transplantation. VEGFr2 levels in HCC were significantly increased compared to adjacent, nontumorous cirrhotic liver areas (P < 0.05). VEGFr2 levels were significantly higher in the veins and sinusoids of poorly differentiated tumors (P < 0.05). VEGFr2 levels in the tumors were not significantly different between patients within and beyond Milan criteria. However, VEGFr2 levels were significantly higher in the arteries of non-tumorous liver in patients beyond Milan criteria (P < 0.05). No significant association was observed between VEGFr2 levels and the presence of tumor vascular invasion or recurrence post transplantation. These findings suggest that VEGFr2 up-regulation is a feature of poor differentiation and tumor progression. Further investigation is needed to assess the value of angiogenesis modulation in preventing tumor formation and/or progression in cirrhotic patients.
Should liver transplantation in patients with model for end-stage liver disease scores ≤ 14 be avoided? A decision analysis approach
Authors: Perkins James D. , Halldorson Jeffrey B. , Bakthavatsalam Ramasamy , Fix Oren K. , Carithers Robert L. , Reyes Jorge D.
Published: January 2009

Studies have shown that liver transplantation offers no survival benefits to patients with Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores ≤ 14 in comparison with remaining on the waitlist. The consensus of a 2003 transplant community national conference was that a minimum MELD score should be required for placement on the liver waitlist, but no minimum listing national policy was enacted at that time. We developed a Markov microsimulation model to compare results under the present US liver allocation policy with outcomes under a “Rule 14” policy of barring patients with a MELD score of ≤14 from the waitlist or transplantation. For probabilities in the microsimulation model, we used data on all adult patients (≥18 years) listed for or undergoing primary liver transplantation in the United States for chronic liver disease from 1/1/2003 through 12/31/2007 with follow-up until 2/1/2008. The “Rule 14” policy gave a 3% improvement in overall patient survival over the present system at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years and predicted a 13% decrease in overall waitlist time for patients with MELD scores of 15 to 40. Patients with the greatest benefit from a “Rule 14” policy were those with MELD scores of 6 to 10, for whom a 17% survival advantage was predicted from waiting on the list versus undergoing transplantation. Our analysis supports changing the national liver allocation policy to not allow liver transplantation for patients with MELD ≤ 14.
Use of High-Risk Liver Allografts Lowers Survival in Patients with Low Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Scores
Authors: Perkins James D.
Published: January 2009

Abstract

Background & Aims:

Although priority for liver transplantation is determined by the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, the quality of organs used is subject to physician discretion. We aimed to determine whether implementation of MELD affected the quality of organs transplanted, the type of patients who receive the higher-risk organs, and the impact of these changes on their posttransplant survival.

Methods:

Data were analyzed from the United Network for Organ Sharing of adults who underwent deceased donor liver transplantation between January 1, 1997, and August 1, 2007 (n = 47,985). Dependent variables included the donor risk index (a continuous variable that measures the risk of graft failure associated with a particular organ) and patient survival after transplantation.

Results:

The overall organ quality of transplanted livers has worsened since MELD implementation, with an increase in the donor risk index equivalent to a 4% increased risk of graft failure after adjusting for temporal trends (P <.001). This was accompanied by a shift from using the higher-risk organs in the more urgent patients (in the pre-MELD era) to using the higher-risk organs in the less urgent patients (in the post-MELD era). Posttransplant survival has worsened over time (hazard ratio, 1.017/y; P =.005) among the less urgent patients (MELD scores, <20); mediation analysis suggests this change in survival was caused primarily by changes in organ quality.

Conclusions:

As an unintended consequence of the MELD allocation policy, patients that are least in need of a liver transplant now receive the highest-risk organs. This has reduced posttransplant survival in recent years among patients with low MELD scores.
Thorough analysis of the Oseen system in 2D exterior domains
Authors: Konieczny Paweł
Published: January 2009

We construct Lp‐estimates for the inhomogeneous Oseen system studied in a two‐dimensional exterior domain Ω with inhomogeneous slip boundary conditions. The kernel of the paper is a result for the half space ℝ. Analysis of this model system shows us a parabolic character of the studied problem, resulting as an appearance of the wake region behind the obstacle. Main tools are given by the Fourier analysis to obtain the maximal regularity estimates. The results imply the solvability for the Navier–Stokes system for small velocity at infinity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Moment estimates for weak solutions to the Navier–Stokes equations in half‐space
Authors: He Cheng , Wang Lizhen
Published: January 2009

We establish the moment estimates for a class of global weak solutions to the Navier–Stokes equations in the half‐space. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Marketing micro‐finance to women: integrating global with local
Authors: Rugimbana Robert , Spring Anita
Published: January 2009

Since the 2005 ‘International Year of Microfinance’, how well are micro‐finance interventions (MFIs) working? MFIs are often seen as a panacea for poverty reduction, particularly among women and through enterprise development. Yet MFIs in Africa have often failed, and may even cause more harm than good. In East Africa for example, MFIs continue to advocate that one size (credit only) fits all strategy. Such a generic remedy is by definition relatively (i) harmonized but not necessarily (ii) aligned with the full diversity of preferences and norms at a local grassroots level. To improve any marketing ‘fit’ between MFIs and local market contexts in East Africa, interventions can become more pluralistic, blending global with local solutions. Based on a review of research with economically poor women in East Africa, a blend of ‘credit only’ and communal‐based systems like ‘rotating savings’ and ‘credit associations’, is suggested. Diversified delivery systems like this are antithetical to (i) harmonisation, but would improve the degree of (ii) alignment between MFIs and the adaptively pluralistic belief systems already in place. Hence a key to making MFIs more sustainable, and thereby reducing poverty more effectively, is to respect their global–local interface, or ‘glocality’.

Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of a water soluble methylated β‐cyclodextrin/camphorquinone complex
Authors: Zhang Jing , Xiao Pu , Shi Suqing , Nie Jun
Published: January 2009

A water soluble methylated β‐cyclodextrin/camphorquinone (MCD/CQ) complex, based on methylated β‐cyclodextrin (MCD) and camphorquinone (CQ), was prepared and its structure was characterized by FTIR, 1H‐NMR, and UV–vis spectra. The photopolymerization kinetics of MCD/CQ in the water soluble monomer system was studied by Real‐time Infrared spectroscopy (RT‐IR). Compared to the photopolymerization carried out under nearly identical conditions but without MCD, the polymerization rate and final conversion initiated by a CQ‐triethanolamine photoinitiator system were slightly lower. The effects of different MCD/CQ concentration, triethanolamine concentration, and light intensity were also studied. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Properties of alumina nanoparticle‐filled nitrile‐butadiene‐rubber/phenolic‐resin blend prepared by melt mixing
Authors: Faghihi M. , Shojaei A.
Published: January 2009

Effect of alumina nanoparticle (ANP) on the properties of rubber compounds based on nitrile‐butadiene‐rubber (NBR) and NBR/phenolic‐resin (PH) blend is examined. To investigate the surface characteristics of the nanoparticles on the performance of nanoalumina‐filled compounds, trimethoxyvinylsilane (MVS) is attached chemically on the surface of ANP through an appropriate functionalization process. Various NBR and NBR/PH compounds filled with ANP and functionalized ANP (f‐ANP) are prepared via melt mixing using traditional open two‐roll mill. Microscopic analysis carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveals good dispersion of nanoalumina within the rubber matrix, indicating the effectiveness of the melt mixing for fabrication of the rubber/alumina nanocomposites. Nanocomposites of NBR and NBR/PH are subjected to various physical and mechanical tests including swelling, tensile, abrasion, and thermal tests and the role of ANP and f‐ANP on these properties are discussed. The results obtained based on this analysis suggest that as‐received ANP can provide good interaction with NBR possibly due to hydrogen bonding between hydroxyl group present on the nanoparticle surface and acrylonitrile group of NBR. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and characterization of magnetite (Fe3O4)—Polyvinyl alcohol‐based nanocomposites and study of superparamagnetism
Authors: Bajpai A.K. , Gupta Rashmi
Published: January 2009

The aim of this investigation was to design iron oxide containing nanocomposites which could display superparamagnetic behavior and thus find application in biomedical and allied fields. To achieve the proposed objectives methyl methacrylate was polymerized by a redox system comprising of metabisulphite and persulphate in the immediate presence of a crosslinker, N,N′‐methylene bis acrylamide and a preformed polymer, i.e., polyvinyl alcohol. Into the prepared polymer matrix nanosized magnetite (Fe3O4) particles were evenly dispersed by in situ precipitation of Fe2+/Fe3+ ions. The nanocomposite materials were characterized by techniques like FTIR, SEM, TEM, XRD, and DSC. The magnetic behavior of nanocomposites and bulk magnetite particles was studied under varying applied magnetic fields and their superparamagnetic property was examined. The iron‐oxide polymer nanocomposites were also studied for microhardness. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Enhancing specific strength and stiffness of phenolic microsphere syntactic foams through carbon fiber reinforcement
Authors: Huang Yi‐Jen , Wang Chia‐Hao , Huang Yu‐Lin , Guo Gangjian , Nutt Steven R.
Published: January 2009

Composite syntactic foams with different densities were fabricated with hollow phenolic microspheres, a phenolic resin binder, and a small addition of chopped carbon fibers. Compressive, shear, and tensile properties were studied for the syntactic foams with and without carbon fibers. Two fiber layer orientations, either parallel (P‐type) or perpendicular (N‐type) to the loading direction, were considered in the mechanical testing. For N‐type foams, mechanical properties were weakly dependent on foam density. For P‐type foams, the mechanical properties of the foams were strongly dependent on the strength of the supporting matrix. The specific strength and specific stiffness of the P‐type foams were significantly enhanced compared with the neat foams. These findings indicate that fiber reinforcement is an effective way to enhance the mechanical performance of syntactic foams, and the enhanced performance should lead to applications as a foam core material for sandwich structures. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Study the effect of viscoelastic matrix model on the stability of CNT/polymer composites by multiscale modeling
Authors: Montazeri A , Naghdabadi R
Published: January 2009

In this article, a Molecular Structural Mechanics/Finite Element (MSM/FE) multiscale modeling of carbon nanotube/polymer composites with viscoelastic (VE) polymer matrix is introduced. The nanotube is modeled at the atomistic scale using structural molecular mechanics. The matrix deformation is analyzed by nonlinear finite element method considering VE behavior. The nanotube and matrix are assumed to be bonded by van der Waals interactions based on the Lennard‐Jones potential at the interface. Using the MSM/FE multiscale model, we investigate the effect of carbon nanotube (CNT) on the improvement of mechanical stability of the nanocomposite. Also, the buckling behavior of these nanocomposites is studied considering large deformation behavior of the VE polymer, and the results are compared with those of the linear elastic matrix. The results show that using carbon nanotubes, the mechanical stability of polymer materials can be improved significantly. Also, it is revealed that by considering the VE behavior model for polymer matrix instead of linear elastic one, the buckling onset strain decreases drastically. Comprising the obtained results from the model with and without considering VE matrix, with the experimental data shows that the model with VE polymer matrix predicts the behavior of real CNT‐reinforced polymer composites better and thus should be used for more accurate simulations. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Pharmacovigilance in pregnancy using population‐based linked datasets
Authors: Colvin Lyn , Slack‐Smith Linda , Stanley Fiona J. , Bower Carol
Published: January 2009

Purpose

National dispensing data for subsidised prescription medicines have recently been approved for linkage to the population‐based health datasets in Western Australia (WA), creating the capacity to study how these medicines are used and their impact on pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

Pregnancy events were identified in the Hospital Morbidity Data System from 2002 to 2005 (N = 164 278 admissions; N =  98 265 women) and linked to the midwives' notification system (MNS), the registry of births and deaths, the Western Australian birth defects registry and the pharmaceutical benefit scheme. Dispensing records were extracted for each pregnancy event (N = 1 276 084 dispenses).

Results

There were 106 074 births, 1527 ectopic pregnancies and 25 180 terminations of pregnancy. Dispensed medicines were linked to 28.0% of the pregnancy events. Multiple birth pregnancies were 50% more likely to be dispensed a medicine in the first trimester. As parity increased, so did the likelihood of a medicine being dispensed in pregnancy. Women who were dispensed a medicine were twice as likely to smoke during pregnancy and were 14% more likely to have a registered birth defect. During the first trimester, medicines from category D or X of the risk of drug use in pregnancy were dispensed to 2.1% of all pregnancy events. The WHO ATC ‘Psychoanaleptics’ category was dispensed to 3.8% of all pregnancy events.

Conclusion

Linkage of dispensing data to pregnancy events is feasible and this approach to post‐marketing surveillance will add to the resources available in Australia to investigate pregnancy outcomes in relation to the safe use of prescribed medicines in pregnancy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maleic anhydride‐grafted linear low‐density polyethylene with low gel content
Authors: Huang Le‐Ping , Zhou Xing‐Ping , Cui Wei , Xie Xiao‐Lin , Tong Shen‐Yi
Published: January 2009

Maleic‐anhydride‐grafted linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE‐g‐MAH) with low gel content was synthesized by the solid‐phase grafting polymerization of low molecular weight linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) with melt flow index of 49.4 g/10 min, its structure and properties were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, polarized optical microscopy, and capillary rheometer. At the experimental conditions, maleic anhydride is successfully grafted onto LLDPE with the grafting degree of 1.1–2.4% and the gel content less than 3.7% since the chain‐branching reaction is dominant side reaction. The melting temperature of LLDPE‐g‐MAH is higher than that of pristine LLDPE due to the increased molecular polarity, but its degree of crystallinity and crystallization rate decrease due to its chain‐branching structure. The apparent viscosity of LLDPE‐g‐MAH is higher than that of pristine LLDPE, and its shear‐sensitivity is weakened due to the chain branching and subsequent difficulty in disentanglement under shear force. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
(η6‐N‐alkylcarbazole) (η5‐cyclopentadienyl) iron hexafluorophosphate salts in photoinitiated and thermal epoxy polymerization
Authors: Wang Tao , Li Zhiquan , Zhang Ying , Hassan Kafssi , Wang Xiaoning
Published: January 2009

(η6‐Carbazole)(η5‐cyclopentadienyl) iron hexafluorophosphate salts (CFS PF6) are capable of photoinitiating cationic polymerization of epoxy monomers directly upon irradiation with long‐wavelength UV light. To improve the solubility of CFS ferrocenium salts in epoxides, two CFS photoinitiators have been prepared: [cyclopentadiene‐Fe‐N‐buylcarbazole] hexafluorophosphate (C4‐CFS PF6) and [cyclopentadiene‐Fe‐N‐octylcarbazole] hexafluorophosphate (C8‐CFS PF6), bearing C4 and C8 alkyl chains, respectively, on the nitrogen atom. Studies with real‐time infrared spectroscopy have shown that C4‐CFS and C8‐CFS photoinitiators exhibit high efficiency in polymerization of 3,4‐epoxycyclohexylmethyl‐3,4‐epoxycyclohexane carboxylate (ERL‐4221) epoxy monomer, but lower efficiency in polymerization of di(2,3‐epoxypropyl)‐3,4‐epoxy‐1,2‐cyclohexanedioate (TDE‐85) epoxy monomer. Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) sensitizer was very effective in improving the photoinitiating activities of CFS in polymerization of both ERL‐4221 and TDE‐85. DSC studies have shown that C4‐CFS and C8‐CFS photoinitiators can also be employed as thermal initiators for the cationic ring‐opening polymerization of epoxides at moderate temperatures. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Practical guide to joint and soft tissue injection techniques
Authors: Galloway James , Bukhari Marwan
Published: January 2009

Steroid injections are a key tool in the management of musculoskeletal conditions and are now the most frequently performed procedure in rheumatological practice. Here, the authors illustrate the correct technique for administering these injections and highlight some of the points to consider. Copyright © 2006 Wiley Interface Ltd
Anaphylaxis: guide to causes, management and follow‐up care
Authors: Spickett Gavin
Published: January 2009

Anaphylactic reactions can be severe and require prompt treatment as well as appropriate observation measures. Here, Dr Spickett discusses the common causes and immediate management of the condition and the approach to follow‐up management. Copyright © 2006 Wiley Interface Ltd
Recommended management of common STIs in primary care
Authors: Jayatilaka Nadi , Kinghorn George
Published: January 2009

Early diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections not only alleviates symptoms but avoids costly complications. Our Drug review describes the efficacy and adverse effects of the drugs available to treat the most commonly encountered STIs, followed by sources of further information and the Datafile. Copyright © 2006 Wiley Interface Ltd
Malaria: clinical features and recommended management
Authors: Wootton Dan , Beeching Nick , Lalloo David
Published: January 2009

Malaria is a life‐threatening disease and its syndromes vary depending on the infecting species and previous exposure. Here, the authors look at the importance of prompt diagnosis and administration of appropriate treatment and discuss the role of the GP in managing this potentially fatal disease. Copyright © 2006 Wiley Interface Ltd
Diagnosis and medical management of endometriosis
Authors: Swanton Alex , McVeigh Enda
Published: January 2009

The choice of treatment in endometriosis is dictated by symptom severity and whether the patient wishes to conceive. Our Drug Review describes the surgical diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment options, followed by sources of further information and the Datafile. Copyright © 2006 Wiley Interface Ltd
The investigation on the relative stability of different clusters of thiourea dioxide in water using gas phase quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Peng Ke , Jin Lijun , Zhou Weiqun , Yang Wen , Li Min
Published: January 2009

The relative stability of different clusters of thiourea dioxide (TDO) in water is examined using gas phase quantum chemical calculations at the MP2 and B3LYP level with 6‐311++G(d,p) basis set. The possible equilibrium structures and other energetic and geometrical data of the thiourea dioxide clusters, TDO‐(H2O)n (n is the number of water molecules), are obtained. The calculation results show that a strong interaction exists between thiourea dioxide and water molecules, as indicated by the binding energies of the TDO clusters progressively increased by adding water molecules. PCM model is used to investigate solvent effect of TDO. We obtained a negative hydration energy of −20.6 kcal mol−1 and free‐energy change of −21.0 kcal mol−1 in hydration process. On the basis of increasing binding energies with adding water molecules and a negative hydration energy by PCM calculation, we conclude thiourea dioxide can dissolve in water molecules. Furthermore, the increases of the CS bond distance by the addition of water molecules show that the strength of the CS bonds is attenuated. We find that when the number of water molecules was up to 5, the CS bonds of the clusters, TDO‐(H2O)5 and TDO‐(H2O)6 were ruptured. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Drug–receptor interaction‐based quantitative structure–activity relationship of tetrahydroimidazodiazepinone
Authors: Sahu V. K. , Khan A. K. R. , Singh R. K. , Singh P. P.
Published: January 2009

Log P, solvent‐accessible surface area (SASA), total energy, bond length, and bond strain of the most favorable H‐bond formed between drug and receptor; and quantum chemical descriptor ΔE‐based quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) study of tetrahydroimidazodiazepinone derivatives have been done. For QSAR study, the 3D modeling and geometry optimization of all the derivatives and receptor's amino acid have been carried out on CAChe software by applying semiempirical method using MOPAC 2002. Softness Calculator using semiempirical PM3 methods has done the atomic softness of every atom of the derivatives and receptor's amino acids. The biological activities of tetrahydroimidazodiazepinone derivatives have been taken from the literature. The predicted values of biological activity with the help of multiple linear regression analysis are close to observed activity. The cross‐validation coefficient and correlation coefficient also indicate that the QSAR model is valuable. Regression analysis shows that hydrophobic interaction is predominant and made major contribution, whereas hydrogen bonding and polar interactions help in proper orientation of the compound (or its functional groups) to make maximum interaction. With the help of these descriptors, prediction of the biological activity of new derivative is possible. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Theoretical investigation on density, detonation properties, and pyrolysis mechanism of nitro derivatives of benzene and aminobenzenes
Authors: Wang Gui Xiang , Gong Xue Dong , Xiao He Ming
Published: January 2009

Nitro derivatives of benzene and aminobenzenes are optimized at the DFT‐B3LYP/6‐31G* level. The heat of formation (ΔHf) and crystal theoretical density (ρ) are estimated to evaluate the detonation properties using the modified Kamlet–Jacobs equations. Thermal stability and the pyrolysis mechanism of the title compounds are investigated by calculating the bond dissociation energies (BDE) at the unrestricted B3LYP/6‐31G* level. The kinetic parameter and the static electronic structural parameters can be used to predict the stability and the relative magnitude of the impact sensitivity of homologues. According to the quantitative standard of the energy and the stability as an HEDC, the title compounds having more than four nitro groups satisfy this requirement. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
FemtoMolar measurements using accelerator mass spectrometry
Authors: Salehpour Mehran , Forsgard Niklas , Possnert Göran
Published: January 2009

Accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) is an ultra‐sensitive analytical method suitable for the detection of sub‐nM concentrations of labeled biological substances such as pharmaceutical drugs in body fluids. A limiting factor in extending the concentration measurements to the sub‐pM range is the natural 14C content in living tissues. This was circumvented by separating the labeled drug from the tissue matrix, using standard high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) procedures. As the separated total drug amount is in the few fg range, it is not possible to use a standard AMS sample preparation method, where mg sizes are required. We have utilized a sensitive carbon carrier method where a 14C‐deficient compound is added to the HPLC fractions and the composite sample is prepared and analyzed by AMS. Using 50 µL human blood plasma aliquots, we have demonstrated concentration measurements below 20 fM, containing sub‐amol amounts of the labeled drug. The method has the immediate potential of operating in the sub‐fM region. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Observation of the ultrastructure of anterior cruciate ligament graft by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Chen Hsiang‐Ho , Lintner D. M. , Luo Z. P.
Published: January 2009

This study presented the fibril ultrastructure of retrieved grafts from the reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The tapping mode images of the AFM were taken from different areas of the longitudinally cut grafts. Regular arrangement of collagen fibrils was found in certain areas of the graft. In many areas, however, the fibrils were not well arranged in a single direction, with some smaller fibrils oriented vertically to larger parallel fibrils. The crossing and tangling of fibrils in ACL grafts was well represented in the three‐dimensional AFM image. This abnormality of graft ultrastructure might indicate the possible alteration of the mechanical environment after ACL reconstruction. This study demonstrated the suitability and importance of ultrastructure observation of ACL grafts by AFM. SCANNING 31: 19–23, 2009. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In situ X‐ray Measurements to Probe a New Solid‐State Polycondensation Mechanism for the Design of Supramolecular Organo‐Bridged Silsesquioxanes
Authors: Dieudonné Philippe , Man Michel Wong Chi , Pichon Benoît P. , Vellutini Luc , Bantignies Jean‐Louis , Blanc Christophe , Creff Gaëlle , Finet Stéphanie , Sauvajol Jean‐Louis , Bied Catherine , Moreau Joël J. E.
Published: January 2009

A long‐range ordered organic/inorganic material is synthesized from a bis‐silane, (EtO)3Si(CH2)3NHCONHC6H4NHCONH(CH2)3Si(OEt)3. This crosslinked sol–gel solid exhibits a supramolecular organization via intermolecular hydrogen bonding interactions between urea groups (NHCONH) and covalent siloxane bonding, SiOSi. Time‐resolved in situ X‐ray measurements (coupling small‐ and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering techniques) are performed to follow the different steps involved in the synthetic process. A new mechanism based on the crystallization of the hydrolyzed species followed by their polycondensation in solid state is proposed.
Activated Spinal Cord Ependymal Stem Cells Rescue Neurological Function
Authors: Moreno-Manzano Victoria , Rodríguez-Jiménez Francisco Javier , García-Roselló Mireia , Laínez Sergio , Erceg Slaven , Calvo Maria Teresa , Ronaghi Mohammad , Lloret Maria , Planells-Cases Rosa , Sánchez-Puelles Jose María , Stojkovic Miodrag
Published: January 2009

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a major cause of paralysis. Currently, there are no effective therapies to reverse this disabling condition. The presence of ependymal stem/progenitor cells (epSPCs) in the adult spinal cord suggests that endogenous stem cell-associated mechanisms might be exploited to repair spinal cord lesions. epSPC cells that proliferate after SCI are recruited by the injured zone, and can be modulated by innate and adaptive immune responses. Here we demonstrate that when epSPCs are cultured from rats with a SCI (ependymal stem/progenitor cells injury [epSPCi]), these cells proliferate 10 times faster in vitro than epSPC derived from control animals and display enhanced self renewal. Genetic profile analysis revealed an important influence of inflammation on signaling pathways in epSPCi after injury, including the upregulation of Jak/Stat and mitogen activated protein kinase pathways. Although neurospheres derived from either epSPCs or epSPCi differentiated efficiently to oligodendrocites and functional spinal motoneurons, a better yield of differentiated cells was consistently obtained from epSPCi cultures. Acute transplantation of undifferentiated epSPCi or the resulting oligodendrocyte precursor cells into a rat model of severe spinal cord contusion produced a significant recovery of motor activity 1 week after injury. These transplanted cells migrated long distances from the rostral and caudal regions of the transplant to the neurofilament-labeled axons in and around the lesion zone. Our findings demonstrate that modulation of endogenous epSPCs represents a viable cell-based strategy for restoring neuronal dysfunction in patients with spinal cord damage.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Long‐term changes in dopamine‐stimulated gene expression after single‐day methamphetamine exposure
Authors: Belcher Annabelle M. , O'dell Steven J. , Marshall John F.
Published: January 2009

Methamphetamine (mAMPH) is a highly addictive psychostimulant drug that injures monoaminergic neurons and results in behavioral impairments in humans and animals. Although evidence exists for changes in cortical volume, metabolism, and blood oxygenation levels in human mAMPH abusers, animal models have instead emphasized this drug's long‐lasting influence on ascending monoaminergic (dopamine, serotonin) projections. The aim of this study was to investigate cortical and subcortical function in rats long after administration of a single‐day mAMPH regimen known to damage monoaminergic systems, at a time point when behavioral impairments are still evident. Rats were given either saline or a neurotoxic (4 × 4 mg/kg, sc) mAMPH regimen. Five weeks later, they were given pharmacological treatments that stimulate cortical gene expression: either the dopaminergic agonist apomorphine (3 mg/kg, sc) or the muscarinic acetylcholine agonist pilocarpine (25 mg/kg, ip). Cortical and subcortical immediate early gene (IEG) responses were measured by immunocytochemical analysis of Fos or JunB, protein products of the IEGs, c‐fosandjunB. Compared with saline‐pretreated controls, mAMPH‐pretreated animals had about 50–70% fewer Fos‐ and JunB‐immunoreactive cells in anterior cingulate, infralimbic, orbital, somatosensory, and rhinal cortices as well as caudate‐putamen and nucleus accumbens, 90 min after apomorphine challenge. By contrast, mAMPH‐pretreated rats had no reductions in the numbers of Fos or JunB‐positive cells following pilocarpine challenge. This study demonstrates the profound and enduring effects of mAMPH administration on dopamine‐stimulated cortical function in animals. Synapse 63:403–412, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Asenapine exerts distinctive regional effects on ionotropic glutamate receptor subtypes in rat brain
Authors: Tarazi Frank I. , Choi Yong Kee , Gardner Matthew , Wong Erik H.F. , Henry Brian , Shahid Mohammed
Published: January 2009

Asenapine, a new pyschopharmacologic agent being developed for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, has a unique human receptor binding signature with strong affinity for dopaminergic, α‐adrenergic, and, in particular, serotonergic receptors raising the possibility of interactions with glutamatergic receptors. Changes in ionotropic glutamate (Glu) N‐methyl‐D‐aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors and 2‐amino‐3‐(3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐isoxazol‐4‐yl)propionic acid (AMPA) receptors in rat forebrain regions were quantified after repeated administration of multiple doses of asenapine (0.03, 0.1, or 0.3 mg/kg, subcutaneous, twice/day) or vehicle for 4 weeks. Brain sections were collected from the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), dorsolateral frontal cortex, caudate putamen (CPu), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and hippocampus (HIP), and processed for in vitro receptor autoradiography. Four weeks of treatment with 0.03, 0.1, or 0.3 mg/kg of asenapine significantly (P < 0.01) decreased binding of [3H]MK‐801 to NMDA/MK‐801 modulatory sites in NAc (by 27%, 29%, and 26%, respectively), medial CPu (by 25%, 28%, and 24%), and lateral CPu (by 24%, 31%, and 26%). In contrast, the same doses of asenapine did not alter binding of [3H]glycine to NMDA/glycine modulatory sites in any of the brain regions examined. [3H]AMPA binding to AMPA receptors was selectively and significantly (P < 0.001) elevated in hippocampal CA1 (41%) and CA3 (40%) regions but only at the highest dose tested. These results indicate that chronic treatment with asenapine has region‐specific and dose‐dependent effects on ionotropic Glu‐receptor subtypes in rat forebrain, which might contribute to the unique psychopharmacologic properties of asenapine. Synapse 63:413–420, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of a low‐lying placenta on delivery outcome
Authors: Bronsteen R. , Valice R. , Lee W. , Blackwell S. , Balasubramaniam M. , Comstock C.
Published: January 2009

Objectives

To evaluate delivery outcome in pregnancies with a low‐lying placenta (within 2 cm of, but not covering, the internal os) that had been identified within 4 weeks of delivery. We examined the likelihood of a vaginal delivery and investigated the clinical significance of the placental edge to internal os measurement.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed for singleton pregnancies delivering in the third trimester with a low‐lying placenta identified within 4 weeks of delivery. Outcome variables included type of delivery, maternal and neonatal hemoglobin levels, and umbilical artery pH levels.

Results

Eighty‐six patients met the study criteria of a low‐lying placenta identified within 4 weeks of delivery. Forty‐five of these patients were allowed to labor and, of these, 29 (64.4%) delivered vaginally. The vaginal delivery rate was 76.5% in patients with a placenta to cervical os distance of 1–2 cm, significantly greater than the rate of 27.3% in patients in whom the placenta was within 1 cm of the cervix (P = 0.0085). A maternal hemoglobin level below 8.0 g/dL was the most common morbidity associated with low‐lying placenta. Analysis of morbidity observed did not clearly favor either elective Cesarean delivery or attempted vaginal delivery.

Conclusions

In this retrospective study, most laboring patients with a low‐lying placenta were able to have a vaginal delivery with limited morbidity. The likelihood of a vaginal delivery was greater with increased placenta to cervical os distance. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical significance of the placenta to cervical os distance and the interval from scan to delivery. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Weatherability of polypropylene/waste tire dust blends: Effects of trans‐polyoctylene rubber and dynamic vulcanization
Authors: Awang M. , Ismail H.
Published: January 2009

Two series of polypropylene (PP)‐based blends containing waste tire dust (WTD) from scrap tires were naturally weathered. From investigations of specimens after 3‐month and 6‐month weathering periods, the overall indication was that blends with trans‐polyoctylene rubber (TOR) and sulfur dynamic vulcanization (PP/WTDT‐SDV) resisted the deleterious effects of atmospheric factors better than the blends without TOR and dynamic vulcanization (PP/WTD). Tensile test results showed that PP/WTDT‐SDV blends exhibited higher tensile strength and elongation at break than PP/WTD blends. The PP/WTDT‐SDV blends also recorded higher retention values of tensile strength and elongation at break than PP/WTD blends. An increment in the Young's modulus of PP/WTD blends was noticed, however, after both exposure periods. The morphology of the fracture surfaces showed that less WTDT‐SDV than WTD was removed from the PP matrix, a result indicating the presence of improved interfacial adhesion in PP/WTDT‐SDV blends. Micrographs of exposed surfaces showed the formation of easily removed layers on the surface of PP/WTDT‐SDV, which might act as a protective covering and resist the deleterious effects of weathering on the internal parts of the PP/WTDT‐SDV blends. Thermograms showed that the melting temperatures of the exposed PP/WTDT‐SDV specimens were higher than those of PP/WTD samples after both outdoor exposures. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Effect of trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) on the properties of irradiated epoxidized natural rubber (ENR‐50), ethylene‐(vinyl acetate) copolymer (EVA), and an ENR‐50/EVA blend
Authors: Zurina M. , Ismail H. , Ratnam C.T.
Published: January 2009

The effect of trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA) monomer on the tensile properties, dynamic mechanical properties, and morphology of irradiated epoxidized natural rubber (ENR‐50), ethylene‐(vinyl acetate) copolymer (EVA), and an ENR‐50/EVA blend was investigated. The ENR‐50, EVA, and ENR‐50/EVA blend were irradiated by using a 3.0‐MeV electron‐beam apparatus at doses ranging from 20 to 100 kGy. The improvement of tensile properties and morphology with irradiation indicated the advantage of having irradiation‐induced crosslinks in these materials. Observation of the properties studied confirmed that TMPTA was efficient in enhancing the irradiation‐induced crosslinking of ENR‐50, EVA, and the ENR‐50/EVA blend. Addition of TMPTA improved the adhesion between the ENR‐50/EVA blend phases by forcing grafting and crosslinking at a higher irradiation dose (100 kGy). J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Friction in barographs
Authors: Collins Philip R.
Published: January 2009

This letter refers to WEA296 published in Weather 63:8 please follow link below to view the original letter.

Original Letter
Retrospective investigation of captive red wolf reproductive success in relation to age and inbreeding
Authors: Lockyear K.M. , Waddell W.T. , Goodrowe K.L. , MacDonald S.E.
Published: January 2009

The critically endangered red wolf (Canis rufus) has been subject to a strictly managed captive breeding program for three decades. A retrospective demographic analysis of the captive population was performed based on data from the red wolf studbook. Data analyses revealed a decrease in the effective population size relative to the total population size, and changes in age structure and inbreeding coefficients over time. To varying degrees, the probability of successful breeding and litter sizes declined in association with increasing dam age and sire inbreeding coefficients. Neonate survival also declined with increasing dam age. Recent changes in strategies regarding breed‐pair recommendations have resulted in moderate increases in reproductive success. Zoo Biol 28:214–229, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clues to the cause of the Tsushima leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis euptilura) decline from isotopic measurements in three species of Carnivora
Authors: Mitani Naho , Mihara Shozo , Ishii Nobuo , Koike Hiroko
Published: January 2009

The estimated population of the Tsushima leopard cat Prionailurus bengalensis euptilura is only 80–110 individuals. However, the cause of the population decline is not clear. We investigated temporal changes in the food habits of the cat and two other species of Carnivora (marten and weasel) inhabiting the Tsushima Islands by measuring δ13C and δ15N values in hair samples. Hair samples of the cat were collected not only from specimens and furs, but also from feces. The gathering of hair from cat feces was most efficient when the feces were collected in the spring. The food habit of male cats seemed to be more diverse and tended to comprise prey of higher trophic levels than the food habits of the females. The δ13C and δ15N measurements suggested that the trophic level of the food sources has been decreasing over the last several decades for the cat and weasel, but not for the marten. Increased consumption of prey from lower trophic levels in the food habit of the cat seems to be related to the decline of the cat population because these phenomena occurred simultaneously.
Structures of the Ceramides from Porcine Palatal Stratum Corneum
Authors: Hill Jennifer R. , Wertz Philip W.
Published: January 2009

Ceramides are the major type of lipid found in stratum corneum from the skin, gingiva and hard palate. The present study examined the ceramides of the stratum corneum from the hard palate. Six fractions of ceramides were isolated by preparative thin‐layer chromatography. The least polar fraction contained an unusual acyl ceramide (EOS) consisting of long ω‐hydroxy acids amide‐linked to sphingosine with mostly saturated fatty acids ester‐linked to the ω‐hydroxyl group. The second and third fractions contained normal fatty acids amide‐linked to sphingosine (NS) and phytosphingosine (NP), respectively. In each of these ceramides, the fatty acids consisted of a mixture of saturated and monoenoic species. The three most polar fractions all contain amide‐linked α‐hydroxy acids. The fourth fraction contained long α‐hydroxy acids amide‐linked to sphingosine (ASl), while the fifth fraction contained short α‐hydroxy acids amide‐linked to sphingosine (ASs). The most polar ceramide contained α‐hydroxy acids amide‐linked to phytosphingosine (AP). EOS, NS and NP differed from their epidermal counterparts in terms of the compositions of the normal fatty acids. ASl, ASs and AP from palatal stratum corneum were essentially identical to their epidermal counterparts. The differences between palatal and epidermal EOS, NS and NP contribute to the differences in permeability of palate compared to skin.
Lipid Composition, Natural Antioxidants and Physicochemical Characteristics in Liver Oil from Rajiforms from the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Navarro‐García Gerardo , Ramirez‐Suarez Juan Carlos , Ortega‐García Jesús , García‐Camarena Raúl , Márquez‐Farías Fernando , Santos‐Valencia Josefina , Bringas‐Alvarado Lorena
Published: January 2009

Lipid composition by class, fatty acids, natural antioxidants (carotenes, tocopherols) and physicochemical characteristics of liver oil from three commercial rays, Rhinoptera bonasus (Chucha), Aetobatus narinari (Pinta) and Dasyatis americana (Bala) from the Gulf of Mexico were analyzed. Liver oil yield for R. bonasus, A. narinari and D. americana were of 43.04, 41.2 and 38.2% (wet weight), respectively. Triacylglycerols were the most abundant lipid by class in R. bonasus (68.9%), A. narinari (85.9%) and D. americana (81.6%), while sterols esters, sterols, di‐ and monoacylglycerides, polar lipids and wax esters were found in minor proportions. Species showed similar carotenes concentration, 8.7, 12.8 and 8.0 μg/g for R. bonasus, A. narinari and D. americana, respectively. α‐tocopherol concentration was higher (p < 0.05) for A. narinari (46.7 mg/100 g) than for R. bonasus (21.0 mg/100 g) and D. americana (13.7 mg/100 g). Omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in R. bonasus were high with docosahexaenoic acid (12.1%) in a higher proportion than eicosapentaenoic acid (7%).